Feeling Grateful on My 40th Birthday

This is the first time, at least in my recollection, when my birthday has fallen so closely to Thanksgiving.  It is only appropriate for me to give thanks on my 40th birthday.  

Here is a short list of some of the blessings that I count on a such a special day in my life.  Thank you everyone for being such an important part of my life.

1. My wife: She is by far the most important person in my life.  She is the perfect partner and the love of my life.  She keeps me sane and understands all my weirdness.  Thanks babe - I love you so much.
   
   
2. My two crazy daughters: You are loves of my life.  I know I can be short with you.  I don't mean to be.  I love you more than words can express.  Thank you for bringing the sunshine into our house everyday.
   
   
3. My parents and sister: 40 years.  I can't believe how quickly time has passed.  Feels like we were just in the Pittsfield, MA house at 29 Flintstone Dr. yesterday, but it has been more than 23 years since we left.  Thank you for all your love and support you have provided me.
   
   
4. Being American now: A friend of mine always said that we have won the genetic lottery by being born an American, to our parents, during this time in history.  I have never been more optimistic about America than I am today, especially as we experience a resurgence in American manufacturing, become the world's largest energy producer, and extend our global technology lead.  There are so many in the world that do not have the incredible opportunities we have as Americans.  It is important to both be grateful, but cognizant of how much more we can do for others.
   
   
5. My mentors: Thank you to all of you have taken me under your wings academically and in the job world.  Perspective and patience are undervalued virtues.
   
   
6. My co-workers: Work is hard and I know I am pretty hard person to work with.  Thanks to all of my co-workers for putting up with me and for all the laughs.   We laugh hard and it is a real privilege to work in places where we can have as much fun as we do.  Thanks for making work a place a run to in the morning and struggle to leave in the evening.
   
   
7. My teachers: Thank you for teaching me how to think analytically, ask hard questions, listen critically and teaching me the scientific method.  You challenged me and made me a better and smarter person.
   
   
8. ActiveRain: I have said it many times before.  My time with ActiveRain has been my most challenging work experiences.  In the end, it has been one of the most rewarding.   I have learned a lot about work, blogging, social media, real estate, people (lots of good and bad), and myself.     

Tomorrow, I spend the day with my wife, my kids, and my parents.  Should be a fun adventure to start the next 40 years!