A friend recently gave me a book called “40 Days of Thankful Living,” where there are spaces to write what I’m grateful for between Oct. 16 and Nov. 24, or the 40 days prior to Thanksgiving.

At dinnertime when our son was little, we would each tell what we were “thankful” for that day, and it was an interesting time to note what my young boy appreciated.

There was another time in my life when I made an effort to write at least one thing a day I was thankful for.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I’m reminded of all the things I’m truly grateful for:

My parents, whose steadfast love and support is still strong.

My son, who has weathered some storms no young person should ever have to go through, and has come out stronger and with much self-awareness.

My fabulous girlfriends, whose unwavering love through anything and everything is never ending.

My beautiful homes, my kitties and the time to enjoy them, my writing, art, travel and whatever else comes along.

I hope you will stop and make note of things you are thankful for each day, and give your thanks for health, love and happiness.