I was chatting with a good friend of mine the other day, and he sheepishly admitted that he was reading some previous posts on this very site while sitting on the toilet at home.  Apologizing in advance, he told me that after seeing what I have been through with Ulcerative Colitis it dawned on him that he was thankful that he was able to easily drop a deuce “handle business” like he was at that very moment.  This was [humorously] kind of touching.  While not the intended effect I was seeking when I started this here blog, I’ll definitely take it.  Thanks for sharing, buddy!

The story above is timely because today is Thanksgiving.  It’s probably fitting that I list a few things I am thankful for today.  Here it goes. . .

• My wife for assisting my with yet another leaky ileostomy bag today whilst battling a sinus infection, and for being such a cookie-of-toughness.
• My family – looking at you Cousin Ben – for delivering a portion of the missed Thanksgiving feast to our health-challenged home, and for making sure I am recovery properly and thoroughly.  The concern in their eyes was always evident for those first couple weeks, but dammit they tried hard to mask it.  Commendable.
• My friends for the steady status requests, visits and well-wishes.  It really improves this dude’s attitude.  You guys are badasses!
• My co-workers for signing a card and preparing a basket with a few of the things that have been popular with me lately.  You guys are bada$$es [edited for HR].

Enjoy the little things, and embrace your loved ones and the things you love.  Happy Thanksgiving!