On Sunday, we were at Percy Warner Park walking the 6-mile loop at the same time as a small marathon. About 3 miles into the loop, we crossed paths with the former soldier in the photo above. At this point on the route, you might see an owl in a tree, or a deer might cross your path, but we were not expecting to see a man dressed in fatigues carrying an enormous American flag. It was a lovely sight. The golden leaves of the park juxtaposed against the American flag. I took a picture as he was approaching. We stopped and talked briefly, and we learned that, during a tour in Iraq, he had been gravely injured and spent 9 months recuperating in medical facilities. He was told he would never walk again. This past Sunday was his 72nd marathon. And he always carries the flag. As we walked away, we wished him a Happy Thanksgiving and remarked that he had a lot for which to be thankful. As we walked on, we realized that we did too.
To keep the spirit of gratefulness going, we asked the Law Offices of John Day team to share three things they are grateful for and to assume that family, friends, health and faith were already included. We got some great responses:
Hilari Boggess: I am grateful that despite this year being the first holidays without my mom, the entire family is still coming together to celebrate all the same traditions she began. I am grateful both my husband and I have wonderful jobs working with wonderful people. I know we are exceptionally fortunate that we both love what we do. I am grateful my husband is the cook, and each family member is bringing a dish, so I don’t have to cook a thing this Thanksgiving!
Amanda Elliott: The new opportunities that this year has brought into my life to grow, learn and contribute to others in meaningful ways. Being able to share family traditions with my kids. Breezy fall days and sunsets.
Cheryl Terrell: I’m thankful that my mother taught me how to cook Thanksgiving side dishes, especially cornbread dressing. I’m thankful that I have a dog to keep me company. I’m thankful to have the means to travel to visit family.
Amanda Williams: A new niece by adoption who has been hoped and prayed for for many years! Co-workers who care about each other and their clients, which makes this job so much easier and a lot more fun! The bucket list trip we were able to take with my parents to Ireland for my Dad’s 70th birthday
Madeline Klump: Sunshine (especially on a day like today), people’s kindness and generosity and my morning coffee.
Natalie Rowan: My thoughtful husband and our happy baby boy. Our very good boy, Smokey. Living less than 10 minutes away from a Target
Jennifer Meyers: I have wonderful friends, and have made so many new friends, who have brought me adventure and travel at every turn this past year. I have gotten to read so many books and cook food for my family and friends that they eat regardless of whether it is the best iteration of a recipe or an experiment all my own making. That I have the resources and ability to try and fail at a multitude of new hobbies and endeavors frequently and with persistence. Bonus: Cranberry Bagels, funky strange music, and fire.
Thomas Mihalczo: The Tennessee Vols Football (when they win). To live in Nashville with all its new restaurants and many concerts. Our National Parks
Penny Whitaker: Music, cooking/baking abilities…and shows about both and travels, past and future.
Lindsey Walker: The opportunity to learn, the ability to travel, live music.
Natalie Prims: The ability to learn and personal growth, nature and opportunities
Carey Turner: Sunshine, music and laughter
Patrick Mobley: I am grateful that my 9-month-old daughter is healthy and achieving all her developmental milestones. I am grateful that my family in Florida has remained safe through the devastating hurricanes that have occurred recently. I am grateful to have a career that enables me to help people get through extremely difficult times in their lives.
Joy Day: I am thankful for all the travel I have enjoyed and have planned in the future with John, my favorite travel partner. Because you are only as happy as your unhappiest child, I am grateful all our children are healthy and happy and that one will be even happier once all her college applications are done. Finally, I feel so fortunate to have been blessed with wonderful parents who set the standard for so many things including hard work, kindness, good food and love.
Laura Baker: Starbucks, Diet Coke and wine!
John Day: Sunrises, sunsets, and every second between the two.
We hope you and yours find plenty to be thankful for this holiday. Happy Thanksgiving!