This has been a record year for me, and to honor my Thanksgiving tradition, here's what I'm thankful for this year. 

Everyone who read my book

Anyone can be an author. It's easier than ever to write something and pop it up, but what makes the difference is the readers. For everyone who purchased my book or promoted it, I'm eternally grateful, and you have filled my cup more than words could ever describe. I have achieved a life-long dream because of you. 

Everyone who helped me publish my book

As I said, anyone can be an author, but it takes a team of people and hundreds of hours, if not thousands, to create a polished product that will stand the test of time. All of the credit and praise should go to Kate Studer, my editor and Caroline Teagle Johnson, my cover designer. This book would still be a dream if it weren't for their attention to detail and generous guidance. 

My friends and family who cheer me on

Authors are not always comfortable people to be around and probably not the best roommates. The amount of emotional stress and worry, especially for someone new, facing deadlines, chasing perfection, writing ad copy, launching ad campaigns, going to conferences, and workshops while managing a business can consume a person. Add to that pressure from their day job, and you pretty much have a crazy person. I owe a tremendous amount of thanks to my family and friends, who very much know who they are. All of the praise has been so wonderful.

A very special thank you to my inner circle. They didn't know this until now, but I call them my Council of War. There are four people who I consider my most trusted advisors. I trust them without question-- Actually, that's not true. I question a lot, much to their annoyance, and I can be tough to pull out of my cycle of overthinking. But even when I'm texting them the same questions, worries, and fears every. Single. Day. All. Summer, they always are there to listen and cheer me on. These people have kept me sane, especially Erin and JR. Thank you. 

Everyone who reads this blog

First, thank you! Second, I'd like to apologize for my many failings. I'm new to all of this, but the fact that you're along for the ride keeps me going. Double thank you for those of you like, comment, and share. I promise I'll do more contests in the future. 

My students, past and present

I'm a teacher during the day and well, you know how I love to point out the obvious, I can't teach to an empty room. I love each and every one of my students this year. I tell them so, but it's never enough for them to know how much they all mean to me. I miss the students I've taught in the past, and honestly, what makes good teachers some of the most kind, well-rounded people is the sheer number of people we get to know year after year. I think the last time I counted my students, it was well over 1,200. That's a lot of people and a whole lot of stories. 

My son

Becoming a mom changed everything. This year, not only have I focused on being a better teacher and author. I've focused on being a better mom first and foremost. Today, my priority was flying a kite for the first time with my son and helping him catch his first leaf. Honestly, as much as I love everything else in my life, the rest of it is all bonus.

On a lighter note, I would like to thank technology and whoever invented the Roomba, which I have affectionately named Rosie. She's already a most beloved member of the family, and I don't know why I held out for so long. 

Lastly, I would like to take a page out of Snoop Dog's book (language warning) to thank myself* for my turkey hat.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Kathryn

*Here’s the full version of Snoop Dogg’s speech where he thanks everyone else