I apologize for being absent – I’ve just started three new projects in the last three weeks (maybe four today), am dealing with some (mild, amusing) family tumult, and a couple of outside business issues that have become pressing (two good to great news, one disaster avoidance).

I swear that I’ll do the Domestic/Iraq piece over the weekend – or I’ll forfeit my right to make fun of Keith Olbermann for his lame and historically ignorant smackdowns until July of 2007.

Meanwhile, I’m pulling together the recipes for dinner tomorrow and about to start cooking.

I’m thankful for many things in my life. For family – TG to the boys, to their moms and all the love that they have all lavished on the three young men, to my mom, her fella Tom, and my brother and sister-in-law. For friends – who live here and the ones who visit, and the ones we visit far too seldom. For work, and the stuff and comfort that it has bought. For all the fun I’ve had (Vegas, baby!!).

I’m thankful for those who have put themselves in harm’s way and are spending this weekend in far away places away from the comforts of hearth and home. They are there with the intent of defending us and making the world better – whether you’re thankful for the ones who gave the orders or not, you ought to be thankful for the troops who risk everything trying to carry them out.

I’m thankful for this community as well. In some ways, I’m more thankful for the folks who criticize and engage me than those who just pat me on the back (although I appreciate those as well). When you finish this, take a moment and think about everyone around you and how lucky each of us is for the care and regard we get from others.

I’m thankful for it all, and tomorrow let’s all celebrate together.