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It’s the holiday season, 2012 is near, and most are in full hustle and bustle mode. From holiday shopping to family visiting, holiday cocktails are in the near future.

As I was sitting this week contemplating my gift list, I thought about all the things I am thankful for as we count down to the New Year.

It goes without saying that my family and friends keep me grounded; so I am ALWAYS, ALWAYS thankful for them.

With this being said, these are the top ten “gifts” I am and was thankful for in 2011:

1. My husband for having my back and keeping me straight. Marriage is a commitment and I must say he is TRULY committed to me, our son, and I thank him.

2. RJ, our son, who chose me to be his mother. I would do everything all over again for him because he’s my ray of sunshine. When he wakes up, he gives me a smile and THIS IS THE BEST.

3. My Mom—but what else is new. She’s just always right there even if I can’t reach her on cell phone.  We’re working on that. LOL.

4. Tee Tee—you know who you are because RJ smiles when he sees you–it’s adorable! Thank you, thank you . . . and thank you for the ear when I am “having one.” And to the other Tee Tee, thank you also sweetikins!

5.  Little Big Sis–all I can say is that you made it happen and always have my back and I got yours. Thanks for being my gurl! Shout out to LA(T) too—my “check” person.

6. Drs. Sun, Marder and Videlefsky along with all the special nurses—you made me stronger in the beginning, middle, and the end.

7. Northside Hospital who made it easy when it was TIME; they were on it.

8. Mr. Tony for keeping my hair in check and truly telling me “chile you need color.” One of the best things I could have done to my hair.

9. The lady, whom I didn’t even know, but was told, prayed for me as we awaited RJs arrival home. Angels are all around us and we need to appreciate them.

10. Girl Scouts for hiring me in October and believing that I can do the job. While my job is hectic, it does feel good to know that I am making a difference. However, I do miss my students and hope to get back to teaching soon.

So, as you get into the holidays, remember it’s not about the gifts under the tree but the “gifts” you’ve been given.

Smooches,

Professor Diva Cali