Every Thanksgiving, my family goes around the table, and each person has an opportunity to state what he or she is thankful for. Although my husband and I did not spend Thanksgiving Day with my family, this time of year encourages reflection and introspection as we consider the year behind us and the year ahead of us.
First and foremost, I am thankful for my husband, Josh, and our wonderful families. I am also thankful for our beagle, Sadie- and the fact that we were able to eat our Thanksgiving dinner before she did.
Secondly, I am thankful that Josh and I both have jobs that we love. While I cannot speak for Josh, I feel fortunate in these uncertain times to remain gainfully employed and be able to make a living doing something that I love. My profession has its ups and downs- and I don't think I will ever appreciate the commuting- but I am truly thankful to be able to work as a sign language interpreter in the D.C. area and work with wonderful, supportive colleagues.
Furthermore, I am thankful for the opportunities and experiences of this past year, including serving on the VRID board and attending the RID National Conference. At the beginning of the month, I had the opportunity to interpret a cruise, which has been on my "bucket list" since my ITP days. In the past two months, I have taken steps forward to accomplishing other tasks on my bucket list, including presenting at the VRID conference and completing my MA degree. I am currently working on both workshop proposals for the VRID conference as well as a proposal to attend George Mason University and complete a MA in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) with an emphasis in ethics and interpreting.
I am thankful for all the blessings that I received in 2011 and am looking forward to another exciting year in 2012!
