Thanks & Giving: 2008 in Retrospect

Posted by on November 26, 2008 in Personal | 0 comments


I’m a sentimental sap at times, and the holidays are no exception. This will be one of those rare entries where pop culture does not play a role.

Here is a look back at 2008 from my rear view mirror; what I am thankful for and what we have been able to give back.

THANKS

Family…

My mom & dad, brother, 98 year old grandmother, my NY aunt & uncle and cousins, my mother & father-in-law, 5 sisters-in-law, 4 brothers-in-law and 11 amazing nieces & nephews.

Health…

My 30 year old friend Jackie was diagnosed with a brain tumor this summer and after surgery, emerged from radiation and chemo with few side effects and a positive outlook. She has already returned to work. Her courage, strength and spirit are incredibly inspiring. We are very thankful for her health and to have her in our lives.

The gigantic 8.5cm mass that I had removed 3 weeks ago today was non-cancerous. I am almost fully recovered, and return to work myself on Monday.

Job…

I feel lucky to have one, and many of my co-workers will be friends for life.

Love…

Though we are very disappointed by the passage of Prop 8 here in California, we are thankful and blessed to have shared over 11 years with one another, and look forward to spending the rest of our lives together.

Passions/hobbies…

If I were not able to write and share, my life would not be the same. Thank YOU for being interested!

GIVING
Every year we designate a few charitable and non-profit organizations to contribute to; we did not let the current economic climate affect our decision this year. Below are the ones we chose to support.  I encourage you to explore and do the same in your area if at all possible before the end of the year, in any amount.

ARF (Animal Rescue Foundation)
Rescuing and finding loving homes for abused and abandoned cats and dogs, as well as providing programs which bring the healing touch of animals to at-risk youth. Founded by former MLB coach Tony LaRussa.

CaringBridge
Free, personalized websites that support and connect loved ones during critical illness, treatment and recovery.

Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano
Their tagline says it all: “because no one should go hungry.”

GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation)
Dedicated to promoting and ensuring fair, accurate and inclusive representation of people and events in the media as a means of eliminating homophobia and discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.

Make-A-Wish
Giving hope, strength and joy to children with life-threatening medical conditions.

Stand Up To Cancer
Founded on the belief that there is now sufficient knowledge of the basic science of cancer and that technologies are available to allow the practical application and translation of even more basic science knowledge to patients with cancer; the successful application of this knowledge will result in more rapid advances in the treatment of patients and the prevention of cancer in those individuals who are at risk.

Writers Guild Foundation Industry Support Fund
Provided members of the industry affected by the WGA Strike with emergency assistance for food, housing, transportation and medical expenses.

Happy holidays to you and your family.

Thank you for continuing to visit and read; I appreciate each and every one of you for doing so.

- Jo

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