Tuesday, June 4, 2013

A lot to be thankful for

I know, it's not Thanksgiving and I'm talking about being thankful. The world is all topsy-turvey, eh? Well my world always feels that way. I just try not to get too dizzy and fall down. Still, it happens upon occasion.

Obviously I am thankful for those men and women who have served this country in the military, regardless of the branch. Don't think I need to rehash that much. As a one-time firefighter/EMT I also have a great appreciation for the folks who ride the trucks and work their butts off to try to save people's lives.

But on a bit more personal level, there's others. Like the people that I've met through cycling. As always there's a few whom I wouldn't need to spend too much time with but the vast majority are some great folks. And with the work/life schedule that's keeping me busy I don't get to go ride with them or even just go hang out as often as I'd like to. Some are super-competitive. Some are the complete opposite. They'd just be fine lazily pedaling down the bike path or through the neighborhood. Some folks I just see when I stop in to the bike shop and we just shoot the breeze. All are great people and I always wish I could spend a bit more time with them.

I've always told people that growing up with my family was sort of boring. I know, it sounds almost derogatory to say that. But to me, it is something to be very thankful for. Not for any lack of challenges or such. But the drama was kept to a minimum compared to many other families. Through some recent events it is good to see that we can still work together pretty well.

Of course there are our three sons. I was about to type "boys" but I don't think I can say that any longer. One is about to finish his MOS school for the Army. The other is working diligently also and is much taller than I am. They are indeed good men. I think we've been very fortunate to be able to spend the time we can with them.

Last but certainly not least is my lovely bride. Dealing with me provides many challenging days for her. Hard to imagine, I know, but I'm not the easiest person to live with. Still she has somehow managed to work with my many issues and not flee the country. She also comes out to the bike races when it's cold, raining, freezing and other miserable weather when most folks would have said "I'm going in the warm, dry house. I'll see  you when you get back. Take your muddy clothes off before you go trotting through." I do appreciate her very much.

Looking forward to spending time with you, on or off the bike. Over a coffee or sharing a beer. Thanks for reading.