I have no idea what I’m doing, but I feel like I’m in control. 

A few month’s ago I was explaining to my hair lady that my 30’s have been some of the best times that I lived through so far. She said she’d heard that before then asked why that was. What it came down to is that basically I have more stability, creativity, good friends, sense of purpose and understanding than any time in my life so far. 

To put things into perspective my wife and I came out of the recession with a touch of financial PTSD. Even now with a couple of month’s wages saved up I feel a slight anxiousness that maybe it’s not enough. And my wife… forever hates green bell peppers because it was a staple food item in poverty. 

We’re a bit tainted from that experience. However we are coming out of it and this year really feels different mostly because I’ve taken steps to start a side hustle – illustration and printing. 

A lot of things had to come together to make this work. Steady job, room for inspiration, extra cash, reduced debt, and much more. So now that the proverbial stars are aligning it makes me feel like I don’t have to worry as much. That the decisions I’m making are benefiting me in a forward momentum kind of way not because circumstances have forced my hand and I have to get by. 

It feels great. It feels great to be alive and I’m excited about… everything! I don’t remember the last time I felt this way. But I’m going to enjoy it as long as I can and this Thanksgiving I’m thankful for all the positive changes and people that have helped me to reach this point.

I hope you are as lucky as I am to share in that sense of empowerment this holiday. Now I’m going to go celebrate by supporting America’s favorite tradition of gluttony. Happy turkey day!