Simply Thankful

   As usual, many things battle for space in the brain as I meander about the hillside.  Here lately, my hikes have become slow strolls due to the health of the old dog. He moves slow so I move slow.  There is no need to hurry if it causes him not to enjoy his time outside.  We spend time together purely because we like each other but, as of late, he never wants me out of his sight.  So, instead of fast-paced hikes where I would leave him far behind, we stroll, take time to see things and often stop to rest.  He needs our time together as a reassurance that I will always be here for him.  I need our time together simply because he has been so faithful.  But, as I said, many things have the chance to pop in and out of the thoughts on these long, slow walks.

  This afternoon being as tomorrow is Thanksgiving, it occurred to me that I am thankful for the chance to move slow.  I am thankful for life being slower paced than in the past.  I am thankful that, as a kid, I was able to lie on my back in the cool grass and watch the clouds float by overhead.  I am thankful that the old dog, Mr. PJ has given me the opportunity to do it again.  I am thankful that he came to the Bayou to be a part of the family.  I am just thankful for life and what all is here.