Thanksgiving

This year, if I am thankful for anything, I am thankful for family. Up until recently, I have associated that word with blood but, unfortunately, it has become increasingly apparent just how skewed that way of thinking really is. Blood does not make someone love you. It does not mean that they will not turn on you, given the opportunity, or attack and blame you for things that have gone wrong. A family is made up of people that care for you, despite your faults, and do not use them against you; those that remain by your side even when your back is turned and do not lie to your face in an attempt to gain something in return. So, even though the upcoming holidays will be more bitter than sweet, I am very, very grateful to those that have offered their love, encouragement and sympathy these last few weeks. To my parents and siblings, friends, coworkers, members of our church's congregation and random, long-lost acquaintances that have shown up at our door with prayers and support: you are all my family and I love you.

Giving thanks to... YOU.

Thanksgiving is the time of year where we express the things we are most thankful for; the people, opportunities and/or objects we love that make our lives easier, more bearable and absolutely amazing. I am honestly thankful for so many things; for family and pets, smiles and friends. One of my goals for 2013 was to continually communicate my gratitude and love, and I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks to you, dear readers, for all of the views and comments, because I know I do not say it enough.

So thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you. This blog, created with no real purpose in mind, has turned into a genuine passion. I have always been a fan of books, but never imagined that there was a whole community of fellow bloggers that enjoyed reading and discussing just as much as I did. I have discovered so many amazing blogs and people throughout the last few months, and am really looking forward to delving deeper into the book-blogger world in 2014. In the meantime, a serious thank you goes to those that have stopped by my blog, if only for a moment or two, to give my posts and I a chance. I appreciate each and every view, comment and follower more than I could ever properly express, as you have introduced me to such a friendly and open community that I am proud to be a part of. You're lovely. I mean it.