"I would rather be able to appreciate things I can not have
                                     than to have things I am not able to appreciate."
                                                                              — Elbert Hubbard

In the course of everyday living, it is easy to get caught up in our daily problems and lose sight of the people for which I am thankful. As Thanksgiving approaches, I need to take some time to count my many blessings. I hope that you will afford me this little indulgence as I thank the wonderful people in my life, and recognize them as the miracles they truly are. I encourage each of you to take a few moments to acknowledge your loved ones for all the joy they bring into your lives.

I am blessed with a remarkable husband who manages to be both honest and kind. I know I can count on him to be my voice of reason. He is warm, caring, supportive, and loves me unconditionally. As my weight ballooned, never once did he make me feel badly. When I decided to follow a low-carb lifestyle, he made it a point to understand what I could and couldn't eat. He reads labels with me at the grocery store, cooks for me, and never complains about the lack of pasta (his favorite food) on the dinner table. He tells me I look great the way I am, but will support me if I choose to lose more weight. He reminds me that my goal needs to be reasonable and that I am a real woman, not an air-brushed super-model in a magazine. He makes me feel attractive, sexy, and desirable. He kisses me well and often. I am pampered, and treated like a queen. He is supportive in every area of my life. When I am racing the clock to meet a deadline, he protects my peace and quiet so I can work. He brings me coffee, and takes care of the house, the cooking, and my daughter. He is interested in my work, and makes it a point to understand every one of my projects well enough to advise me. It may sound trite, but I am sincere in saying that he is indeed the wind beneath my wings.

I have a beautiful daughter that would make any parent proud. She is honest and trustworthy, and keeps me informed on what is going on in school and with her friends. While she is only 12 years old, she makes smart decisions, and always tries to help others who are less fortunate. She is well-mannered, polite, and respectful toward adults. Currently, I am most thankful that she still wants to spend time with me.

I have a terrific son who came to live with me a year and a half ago. When he walks into the room, it lights up with his presence. He is warm, funny, open, and caring. His strength of his character never ceases to amaze me. He is smart, driven, and works hard at achieving his goals. I see him time and time again going the extra mile to help friends and family members. I am so fortunate to have him in my life.

I have a circle of friends that anyone would envy. My sister-by-choice, Nancy, has seen me through every turbulent journey over the past 25 years. She never fails to lift my spirits. She is the kindest, most compassionate person I know. Two other friends, Linda C. and Linda R. have held my hand in many a crisis. I can count on all of these women to tell me the truth, cheer me up, and share their wardrobes. I would trust any of them with my life. Anyone would be privileged to have one such friend; I have three.

I am thankful that my ex-husband and I have negotiated a cordial relationship that allows us to raise our daughter in positive environment. He supports my decisions, and is flexible when we must juggle visitation. He married a wonderful woman who is a terrific mother to my daughter. When I have to travel, I never worry; I know my daughter will be cared for with love. I am eternally grateful that I do not face the difficulties that many divorced parents have to endure.

I am forever indebted to the members of the Talking Low Carb forum for their unwavering support. My weight loss has been slow, and they are a constant source of encouragement, celebration, advice, and accountability. Some of these great people I have had the opportunity to meet personally; others I have gotten to know through posts and emails. All of them are important to me.

Finally, I am thankful for Lora and the entire staff at Low Carb Luxury. Being a part of this magazine has afforded me the opportunity to pursue a dream. Over these last months, I have had the good fortune to grow, develop, and learn so much. I know I work with the best group of writers and editors anywhere, and I am honored to be a part of this team. I am equally thankful to all the readers who have taken the time to write to me. You have no idea how much I appreciate your feedback. Many of you have revealed your personal struggles, tragedies, and victories; thank you for trusting me enough to share so openly.

I wish each and every one of you a blessed and happy Thanksgiving.


             
                  Jo Cordi Sica,
                  SPHR Organizational Development and Training
                  jwcordi@aol.com

Copyright © November 2003  Jo Cordi Sica and Low Carb Luxury
Title photo Copyright © 2003  Neil Beaty and Low Carb Luxury

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