I’ve been in Sydney for the last few days so I won’t be sitting down to a traditional Thanksgiving dinner this year but I hope your day is filled with a chance to reflect with your family and friends. This year has been filled with a lot of growth (and change) and it’s so important to slow down, remember how much good is around us and to not take it for granted.

Things I’m Thankful For

I’m thankful for Joey and Rocky for being in my life for close to 5 years now. I met Joey at a particularly rough patch when I was feeling very unsure about who I was and where I was going and the structure I found with him gave me a lot of clarity.

I’m thankful for my mom who moved back to Portland this year and is now helping me with Branch. She often deals with the un-fun, behind the scenes things (like accounting) and is the glue that holds my business together.

I’m thankful for Chubs the squirrel who fell 30 feet down our chimney and miraculously survived. I’m am so happy that he’s grown into a very sweet, inquisitive little friend.

I’m thankful for my dad who always swings by my house and takes me to the coolest mix of places in town. We hit dive bars, trendy hotspots and no matter where we go, I appreciate his enthusiasm to keep an open mind and constantly explore.

I’m thankful for my grandparents, who have been in my life another year. Four years ago, my grandpa, who had never spent a day in the hospital in his life had an aneurysm and we nearly lost him. Now, each time I see them, I remind myself how special they are and that not everyone gets to hang out with a couple who’s been married for 65 years…and still gets along!

I’m thankful for The Blogcademy which has allowed me to travel the world and meet so many interesting women. Many have since become friends and inspire me to push through the hard times and keep going on a daily basis.

I’m thankful for my office landlords Jen & Mark who reached out me, even though I didn’t fit the mold of the traditional artisans that filled their space. I’m learned so much from spending my days with creative folks who aren’t graphic designers.

I am thankful for all of you, whether you’ve been here with me since the beginning seven years ago or are just stopping by for the first time today. Thank you for joining me, growing with me, for offering your friendship and giving me the motivation to keep going, even when life throws unexpected curveballs. This space wouldn’t exist without you so thank you.

There’s so much more that I’m thankful for…but I’m going to sign off for now, enjoy some time with friends and explore this awesome city.

Happy Thanksgiving!