This year, instead of listing what I’m thankful for, I thought I’d make a list of who I’m thankful to. Feel free to play along.

I’m thankful to the many, many readers I have, those who follow me from location to location, filling my inbox with love and tips, recipes and hints, and occasionally, a swift kick in the rear. I’m thankful to the people who hire me, those who keep me writing and thinking and doing. I’m thankful to the karate instructors who keep my kids in line, me in shape and make it fun while doing so. I’m thankful to those who stock the grocery stores, the drug stores, the gas stations and the book stores - they make it easier to do the things I need to do with the supplies I need.

I’m thankful to the inventors of automobiles, planes, Tylenol, sliced bread in a bag, frozen chicken nuggets, instant oatmeal and Hot Pockets. I salute the creators of toilet paper, paper towels, disposable diapers, hot water heaters, straightening irons and plastic baggies. My hats off to those who pick up the trash, clean the sewers, repair my van and service the cable lines. Without you, none of the magic would be possible. Mad props to the aestheticians who slim down my brows, defuzz my ’stache and smooth out my feet. You rock stars make a bad situation tolerable.

There certainly would be no “me” without the teachers, the coaches and the friends who make it possible for one woman to have six kids in 100 different activities. Those who’ve gone before me, paving the way and telling me their errors - just in time for me to make my own version of the same mistakes. Those whose blogs I read, whose discussion boards I frequent, who have Facebook profiles and Twitter presences - you keep me sane and entertained.

Most of all, thanks to my family, who put up with an AWFUL lot of drama and trauma from me throughout the year. You all are the best. Have a super time being Thankful this year. Bad economy, declining dollar, falling stocks - we still have a lot to be grateful for.