This is my 49th published story on ficly and I am 49. I have managed to accomplish one goal before the year ended. For that, and other things, I am thankful.

1. I am thankful that I will not see any more of those funky New Years glasses with an “00” in the middle for people to look through.

2. I am thankful to my brother-in-law for encouraging me to learn to play the dobro. It lets me join in the family jam sessions. I am glad that I got to play music with my nephew before he died.

3. I have endless gratitude for those who surround me with strength- partner, family, friends- especially those who can remind me how to work the remote controls and the USB cable.

4. I am glad that my grandmother celebrated her 90th birthday, even if she can’t recall all those glorious years. I hope that I inherited enough of her genes.

5. I am fortunate to have just enough of everything- enough friends, time, health, money, and love to make life worthwhile.

Do something creative in the New Year!