A lot of people find the holidays stressful, and I have to admit that sometimes I'm one of them. But, I also really appreciate getting together with family and making an effort to express the feelings of love we may not always take the time to express throughout the year.

Thanksgiving time holds varied memories for me. I've been miserable with the flu, strep throat and in my not-so-distant adult life the chicken pox. But, I also sold my first book and got engaged around Thanksgiving.

This year, as in all years, there's so much to be thankful for. I'm thankful that the democrats took over the house and the senate, because I truly hope that our troops in Iraq will be home with their families by this time next year.

I'm thankful for family, friends, books, music, pumpkin pie and step aerobics. I'm also thankful for anyone who reads my books or this site.

Happy Thanksgiving!