Frieda takes a walk with me

November 22, 2010 – I like to give thanks every morning, for the many good things in my life and the world, because we can forget to consider them, if we are not careful. Thanksgiving is obviously a time to formalize that idea. So it’s good, I think, for me to give thanks all week.

I am thankful for:

– Maria, my wife and partner. My former girlfriend. My creative co-conspirator. Mary Kellogg said she would keep me in line. She does.

– My daughter Emma, a brilliant, funny, loving and gifted human being. Even marriages that don’t work can produce great things. Somebody will be lucky to end up with her.

– Bedlam Farm, my Walden Pond. Providing me with work I love, lessons I needed, and a life learning about and considering the natural world.

– My dogs, Izzy, Lenore, Rose and Frieda. They guide my life. I am grateful for their love and companionship, and for them making me a better human being every day.

– For the donkeys, Lulu and Fanny, deeply loving and spiritual beings.

– And the ever independent, feisty and beguiling Barn Cats, Mother and Minnie.

– My writing. Every day, work that I love more than I can say.

– My photography. Showing me how to see the world, and see it anew.

– My friends. I am late to friendship, learning how to do it. I like it. You have to fight for friendship, all the time.

– All of you. For the people who make my life possible, those who buy my books, appreciate my photographs, encourage my explorations, roll their eyes at my excesses, follow the great trip that life is. I am greatful for you.

That’s enough for one day. Getting squishy. More tomorrow.