Giving Thanks

This is a little late due to the busy fun holiday weekend I had but I wanted to give thanks to things/people in my life:

My family: I love my family and miss them dearly but so thankful for the times we've spent together this past year. Although this year was a roller coaster of a ride with the unexpected death of my nagymama (RIP) as well as my parents having to put down both of the family dogs, I appreciate my family and all that they have been there for. Between visiting for work and personal matters I have managed to see my parents 8 out of the 11 months so far this year and have enjoyed every minute being able to spend with them. Even with my sister in Atlanta, I have managed to see her 6 out of the 11 months so far. I am truly grateful for the time spent with my family even with being so sprawled across the United States. I can't wait to see them again 4 weeks for Christmas.



Ann Marie, Janssen and I

My friends: I can't believe it's been over a year and a half that I have now been living in New York. Time has flown by but the friendships I have made are stronger than ever. I have made such an amazing group of friends through trivia, kickball, friends of friends and all of the other various things I have participated in here in the city. A special thank you to Tom, Ann Marie and Janssen. Without you all in my life and helping me out when I was in need/disarray I am not sure I would have made it through with a sane mind.

Tom and I

Tom- without you I don't think I would feel as grounded and sometimes sane as I do. You calm me when I need it, and also make me let loose and have fun instead of feeling stressed and always planning. Thank you.

Ann Marie- you're my second half and are my closest girl friend here. You and I have such a great and solid friendship. Here's to many years to come. 

Janssen- you and I have become closer over the past year and I am truly grateful. We've had great conversations and fun times together. I am glad we've formed this friendship.

My boss/work: I am truly grateful for given the opportunity to work in New York and still do every day. I am lucky to be not one who is unemployed during these tough economic times. I thank my lucky stars every day that I work with such an amazing EHS team here at 30 Rock as well as working for a boss who is there for his employees. Without any family here to lean on in case of an emergency or in times of trouble, I appreciate the fact that I can reach out to my boss as we have established a solid friendship and work relationship. Here's to EHS and working with smart and dedicated people.

My health and financial stability: Even after moving to New York and adjusting to new climates, humidity, and crazy allergies, I am greatful that I have maintained my health and haven't had any major health issues over the past year (knock on wood). With all the traveling and crazy schedules I have had, I cherish the time I can hit the gym or walk for blocks enjoying the outdoors. Relying on walking and public transportation like I did back when I first moved to San Francisco for college, makes me realize how much I enjoy the outdoors and how I should cherish those moments as much as I can. My new found finanical stability has definitely made me thankful this year. After moving and costs associated with moving to New York, I had some moments where I thought being finanically stable would be impossible. With good budgeting skills, a small raise and moving to a more affordable neighborhood, I have managed to become almost debt free (including the many of plane tickets I've had to buy this year)! My goal is to have zero debt starting in 2013 and to buy all Christmas presents with cash.