Since Thanksgiving day sales are still going on, it musn’t be too late to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving! This Thanksgiving, I most certainly have much to be thankful for. For starters, this is the first year in three years that I could enjoy turkey with my family. Having been a foolish self-inflicted vegetarian (as if there is any other kind) I had to settle for the less-than-satisfying “Tofurkey.” Ew. That faux turkey not only lacked poultry, but also any form of delectability. There is a reason the turkey has become the icon of this holiday and not tofu.

Obviously, though, I have more to be grateful for than meats and gluten. I think the most obvious thing I have am thankful for is my newfound health. It has been nearly two months from the transplant and it all doesn’t feel real yet, but there is no denying that I am thankful for it despite the…inconvenience…of the timing and such. The ideal timing would have been to not need it, but I did and not only do I have a stronger heart, but I am that much more stronger as a person.

And as strong as I am, I most certainly would not have been able to make it through this process alone, which brings me to the next thing on my list of things that deserve thanks. Friends and family. Firstly, my parents had to sacrifice a lot coming to stay with me for weeks on end in New York with me. Being strapped to a bed my various IVs and monitors, I couldn’t exactly do much for myself. Even after I left the hospital my parents have been fairly patient dealing with my roid-rage, as steroids are one of my prescribed drugs. And when I forgot my medicine in New York, TWICE, my dad immediately called around to get me refills in DC before the heart had a chance to reject. You see I am a princess of sorts, so I am most certainly thankful for the patient people in my life. So as much as my parents drive me crazy at times, I am sure I drive them even more crazy with my relentless demands–so, I guess I am thankful for their unconditional love and support.

I am also thankful for all of my friends who make me feel normal, whether or not they know that’s what they are doing. But being able to go out to lunch or go shopping with my friends like any other 22 year old distracts me from the fact that I am not like any other 22 year old. There are still some restrictions on things I can and cannot do, so taking advantage of their company keeps me sane. Also, I don’t mind wearing the mask so much in public because I’m so busy having fun, that I forget it’s on.

All-in-all I am just thankful to be here. My life is finally get back on track. I’ve been going on job interviews at some of my dream companies and I will be permanently moving to Manhattan. Also, my partner will be moving to the greater NYC area for his new job as a cyber investigator. Like what? Everything is going well, and it is all the more reason to give thanks.

It’s true! I’m thankful for you!

Ps. I am thankful for all of you who take the time to read my nonsensical thoughts on this here blog. So thanks, guys!