Last week, I arrived a few minutes early for a business meeting in Palo Alto. So I decided to take a walk to kill time. I got out of my new car and put on a jacket. The jacket felt comfortable and warm. I looked back to admire my new car, noting that it needed a wash.

I took a few deep breaths of the brisk cool morning air and started my walk. The parking lot was covered with fallen leaves– every step I made crackled with crumbling leaves under my feet. The orange sun peered through whatever red leaves were left on the the trees lining up the street. The whole scene seemed burst in orange. Absolutely a beautiful morning and a perfect time for some quick reflection. “Thanksgiving is coming” I reminded myself.

These are many things– big and small– that I am thankful for.

I have a beautiful family that I come home to every evening.

I have a lovely wife whom I love. A wonderful mother to our daughters, she’s forever fun-loving, always encouraging and supportive of me. I just wish she reads my blog. 🙂

I have 2 beautiful girls that I adore. They bring out the kid in me and brighten my everyday. Suzanne mentioned the other day that she felt that it is a privilege to be able to love them. I feel her take couldn’t be more appropriate.

The girls’ new school year is progressing well– they both enjoy their school and are doing well. They are fortunate to be taken care of by my aunt during the work week. I’m relieved of most worries when I leave them to her each morning.

My mom and my sister are in generally good health. We call each other more often now, which is good. I was looking forward to spending Thanksgiving them and my sister’ kids, who are coming up for a holiday visit.

I get to live in beautiful Silicon Valley with its wonderful weather. The Pacific ocean is half an hour away and the Sierra is 4 hours due east. Bustling with high-tech opportunities, it’s definitely the place to be at the moment.

I am able to help provide for my family, making good money doing something I love. Best of all, my work doesn’t prevent me from spending quality time with the family. Weekends had been family time this year.

I am working out regularly and with the exception of a few sport injuries, I am in general good health.

My thoughts turn to a few old friends of mine, who I still keep in touch with on a regular basis.They keep me feel connected and grounded.

After driving the Camry for almost 14 years, I got a new car and for the first time I am really enjoying my ride. And I’ve got a new camera that will serve as a vehicle for my creative outlet for years to come. I will get a lot of satisfaction and enjoyment out of these.

UCLA starts the basketball season with #2 in the polls. I expect a good year from this year’s team.

I felt light in my steps and high in spirits. Just felt happy. Things are good at the moment! Nothing more to wish for… Well, I did only wished I had my camera with me to capture the picture-perfect morning.

Happy Thanksgiving everybody…