Julio's Musings

Here we are at another Thanksgiving. It’s a time to be with family and friends and to show what we’re thankful for. So I want to take this time to say who I am thankful for.

My Mother and Father – They have raised me to be the best person I could be. I would definitely be a different person without them.

Jorge – My brother. You have taught me so much throughout my life. I am a better man because of you. You are one of the best people that I know. I am very thankful and blessed to have you.

Annette – My sister-in-law. We have never spoken much with each other, but it’s ok. The truth is I’ve learned a lot about you over the years. The important things are that my brother loves you, that you are a good wife (well, I suppose not technically a wife, but whatever, to me you’re his wife, haha!), and that you are an amazing mother! You are such an important part of this family and all of us are very blessed and happy that you are part of it.

Jazmin, Xavier, Cassandra, Jorge Jr., and Ava – My nieces and nephews bring such a joy to my life and this family as a whole. Seeing them all grow up has been such a thrill and a definite highlight in my life.

My Grandparents – They’ve had a part in raising pretty much all of us grandkids. They’ve always cared for us all and shown us great love. Let’s also not forget the constant good food that’s always given to us! 😉

All my aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives – I have entirely way too many of you to mention here. I am definitely thankful for such a large extended family filled with so many wonderful people.

Andie – The woman I love to hate, though really it’s pretty much just all love. The amount of creativity and skill you have is amazing! You’ve always treated me well and I’m lucky to have your friendship.

Greg – You’ve grown as a person the past couple years. You’re a fun person and a kind person, someone I’m glad to have in my life!

Heather – The woman who gets picked on the most in our group, you somehow manage to still be friends with all of us! You’re such a good and caring person and I’m happy to know you. You have a strength inside of you that’s just waiting to come out more.

Jack – Always one with a strong opinion, I can always count on you to tell me exactly how it is. You’ve shown me how to be a bit more open with my thoughts. You’ve also been there for me more times than I can count!

John M. – I don’t get to see you enough, but when I do it’s always a good time! You’re a fun person to be around. You make me want to have/be more fun, and that is an accomplishment right there! You’ve also been a good friend.

John P. – You are one of the most sarcastic people I know, but that’s a trait I can appreciate. You keep me on my toes and always searching of a pithy comeback. What can I say: you’re pretty awesome.

Julio A. – My dear cousin/friend, you are a much better person than you’ve given yourself credit for lately. Don’t listen to those who have tried to bring you down. You are not a good person who does bad things! You are a good man and I am a better person because you are in my life.

Lauren – You’re always there when I need you without fail. You somehow manage to understand me even when I don’t. You’ve shown me, in a lot ways, how to be a better friend, family member, and person.

Maria aka Pebbles – Oh my cousin, what’s there to say? You are such a wonderful and sweet woman. I wish you lived here again, but that’s ok. I am very thankful that we can still keep in touch and bug each other even so many states away!

Michelle – I’ve probably spent more time with you in the past month than I ever have. My fellow geek, you have reminded me of all the nerdy/geeky stuff that I love. You’ve served this country for so many years, something that can be a thankless job at times. You’ve been a such a good friend!

Nicole – You’ve shown me how to be a stronger person. You’ve watched out so much for me over the years, even when I haven’t listened as I should have. You’re more amazing than you ever realize.

Sara – You have such an innate capacity for love and happiness that it amazes me. In a lot of ways talking to you, observing you, and listening to you makes me feel a bit closer to God.

Vanessa – You’ve always listened to my late night rambles, whether they be about my annoyances with school, the craziness of people, or even my confusion with women. You’re always there to help your family and friends, even when it isn’t that convenient for you.

People I Missed – I have met so many awesome people in my journey of life, and I am thankful for all of you!

To Those No Longer in My Life – Though we may not see each other or speak really anymore, know that I do consider myself blessed to have had you in my life and for all the lessons and love that came from those times.