We have officially entered into the holiday season. I don't know about you, but this year has flown by and at times I think that it is still summer. (Of course, being in Arizona, that is not hard to believe.) In a few weeks, we will all be taking time in our own way and with our own traditions to give thanks for that which we need to be thankful.

Looking back at this year, I am thankful for quite a lot. I have wonderful family and friends who have rallied around me during good and challenging times. I have a good job that provides me with many opportunities to grow and learn. And I have had the good fortune to serve as this year's ASHHRA President and was provided a way to give back to the organization that has supported me in my professional growth. I also have the fortune to give thanks for an excellent board and support staff from ASHHRA.

For some of us, this year also meant saying goodbye to someone we love, or comforting them in their last moments with us. Some of us have said goodbye to our furry companions who have been there for us through good and bad. For some, it was to say goodbye to children who have forged their own way and now there is a new journey for the parents of adults. Whoever you have said goodbye to, give thanks for having had them in your life. Some are still in your life but in a different way and some have drifted apart and the relationship has run its course. However, the mark they have left will forever be with you.

For all these things, I give thanks. For the good times, bad times and uncertain times. It is through our journey with every event in our lives that we have forever been changed, forever grown, forever learned and forever moved.

Happy Thanksgiving.