Stop.

First, on this Veterans Day, I want to take a moment to thank all of those who have served, presently serve, and will serve, for my freedoms - and most obviously my freedom of speech. These brave men and women, past, present, and future, sacrifice everything to ensure our continued enjoyment of the United States of America. Remember to thank a Veteran, donate to one of the many amazing causes that support them, and remember that they do not leave their scars behind when they exit the armed forces.
Second, when in the hell did the calendar reach November 11th?!!? I feel like it was just the end of summer, and now every store has been shoving Christmas down my throat for at least two and a half to three weeks. Understand, I love Christmas, but I also enjoy Halloween and Thanksgiving too. Why in the world have we stopped celebrating these holidays in order? Oh wait, I forgot, we commercialized everything to generate money to feed the capitalistic machine, which makes me more than a little bit sad. We spend more money to buy more crap that none of us will ever be able to enjoy. That food chopper will end up in the cabinet, those toys will be a novelty and then end up at the bottom of a toy box, that new ring will join a collection in the jewelry box after the flaunting to friends, the excess junk will be forgotten, and the clean up will take three times longer than you expected because everyone will be enamored with their new shiny objects. Then, everyone will retreat to their respective corners on cell phones to text, computers to Facebook, and gaming consoles to play with kids in another country; Stop.
It is time to rethink how we interact with one another and how we show appreciation for our friends and family. When all is said and done, none of the "stuff" will matter. What will matter is the time you spent, how you helped others, the memories you made, and the laughter you shared. As a family this year, make a pact to do things together, put down the technology to make memories, and learn to enjoy each other's company in person. As you begin to age, you recognize that you need less junk and more quality time. Regrettably, that is far and few between any more. Too often are there photos of friends sitting together all staring at their phone screens or conversations only taking place via text. Make a plan to break those habits for children and adults alike for when you are gone only the memories will remain.
Finally, I have many, many things to give thanks for this fall season. My parents who love me no matter the craziness. My husband who continues to improve as each year passes. My older sister who proves the impossible is possible. My baby sister who is the epitome of being in your twenties. My older brother who struggles to face his inner demons but keeps trying. My extended family for learning to accept me for me. My pups for making me laugh and smile and unconditional love. Medical care even if it is still a practice, and often feels that way. Friends who "get it." Coworkers who are compassionate and an amazing gift. Winter on its way. The crisp air of fall and the sunshine that goes with it. New snowboarding gear. My students for keeping me on my toes. Baking (especially cupcakes). Upcoming adventures. I hope that each of you has many things to be thankful for and continues to remember those each and every day not just in this season.