Time to drop the facade for a moment to wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving. 

We all have our stories of what we're thankful for today.  But it's often lip service as we get ready for today's festivities of food, drink and football. But not all is well for many in this country, and we should pause and reflect about the blessings we enjoy and perhaps take for granted.

There's the story today about a middle class family, a Dad who was an aerospace engineer making $85k a year, living in a homeless shelter, with no prospects of employment, reinforced once again how lucky I am.  I have a job.  Can afford a nice home that my family can live in.  I am able to engage in silly indulgences today like posting on the VS or worrying about my fantasy roster.   We'll even watch Detroit play today on the big screen.  And the other two games.  And FSU vs. Iona. 

Thankful that my daughter is finally finding the groove in college.  And that she was able to get back home  for the holidays safely.  When they're gone out of the house, it really hits ya.

I think of the family down the street that just lost their home due to fire and wonder what they're doing today, being thankful that our home is safe and that our neigborhood has been organizing a drive to provide some food, clothing and gifts for the kids at least.  One neighbor took it upon themselves to start that.   Tragedy can bring out the best in some.

There's another article about the tent city down town, and what the homeless are doing today, while here I am trying to figure out how to make that fried turkey just right without burning myself to a crisp.  What are they going to eat?  Some turkey and dressing at the shelter if they're lucky.

We have our health, and can afford care if needed in an era where there are people that are going bankrupt trying to figure out how to cover mounting medical bills.

I'm thankful that I can even still hang at my age playing basketball.  Now THAT'S a real blessing.

I think of the many soldiers from Ft. Campbell we've gotten to know over the years and how much they sacrificed, multiple tours even, while we sit here and get ready to stuff ourselves.  I feel good that we were able to send the care packages, go visit, stay in touch.  It means a lot to them.  I'm thankful for their commitment to duty and that I could do something small for them at least.

I could ramble on, but it just seems like a good time to reflect on everything around us. 

Even if there's 24.5 point spread looming before us right now,  I'm thankful. Thankful for being able to even watch a butt whuppin'.  It's football, the time of year I look forward to every year.  And we're all here today.

Have a great holiday and drink a few for ol' Nole Man.