It's my dang birthday

On my birthday, I wanted to take a moment and just say all the things I'm grateful for.

I'm grateful for Rachelle and our life together. I know that's a big one and kind of cheesy, but it's true. I normally can only recognize good periods in my life when looking back, but I think when I look back, this will probably be in the top two or three periods in my life. We are so lucky because we both work from home full time, I really enjoy Rachelle's company, we make good money, and we do not want for anything. We pretty much do whatever we want. We have weird but awesome cats. The minivan is still running great. What else could people want?!

I'm grateful that things are going well for my daughter, Jessica, and my grandson Carter down in Nashville. She's got a job she's enjoying and learning in. Carter is doing well in school and is basically a grown-ass person at 16!

I'm grateful for my job. It's hard and challenging, but I get enjoyment and fulfillment from it. I mean, I don't know anyone who couldn't use a bit more money, but it pays well. And despite some contract uncertainty at the moment, I'm optimistic that will work itself out and I will still have a job after the FY flips over.

I'm grateful that my mom and I were able to take a road trip down to Florida to visit my aunt this year. It was a really great trip, and it was nice spending some dedicated time with my mom and aunt and visiting all the extended family.

I'm hopeful this next year will be as good as this year.