Happy Turkey Day!

Well, I’m thoroughly stuffed. After a full dinner and four slices of pie (don’t judge; you haven’t tried my mom’s pecan pie), I think I’m about ready to pass out. But before I do, I just want to say Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! I’m very thankful to have each and every one of you readers and followers out there. Talking with all of you has really been the highlight of my year, and, as cheesy as it sounds, without you I wouldn’t be the person that I am today. I’ve learned so much about books, blogging, publishing, and networking that I’m amazed my head hasn’t exploded yet. I’ve made tons of friends, a super-spectacular stalker freind (*stares at Kristina*) and have finally found a place where I can talk about books without feeling like a total nerd. 2010 has been a great year so far, and I can’t wait to see what's in store for the rest of the year.

In addition to being thankful for all of you, I'm also thankful that the following people are in my life:

I’m thankful for my mom and dad: They have always been there for me, and I know as I continue down the winding path of life they will continue to support my unhealthy obsession love for books. My mom even told me to “forget” about spending money on a Kindle because Santa “might” bring me a Kindle this year if I’m a good little girl.

I’m thankful for my brother, Ben: Though we’ve sort of been at each other’s throats this year, I’m thankful to know that he’s there to talk to about wrestling with bears and Toy Story 3. I didn’t realize how much I missed him before he left this August to attend college in Montana, and am very proud of the man he’s becoming. Not to mention that he is also surprisingly supportive of my blog. He rarely reads, so to know that he’s curious about how many reviews I post, who I talk to, etc. is great. I’m also thankful for the fraternity brothers he’s made friends with, because they’ve helped him mature miles these last few months.

I’m thankful for my two best friends: They make life fun and inspire me to become a better person. ‘Nuff said. Who else will go with me to a midnight showing of Disney’s Tangled (Allie, ILU, and Happy Birthday...for like the 10,000th time!), or be willing to go to four different bookstores in one night (Kori, I've finally started reading the Dresden Files!)? The bottom line is that they're awesome, and someday the three of us are going to be starving artists in New York.

Also, for sort of an odd twist, I'm thankful for J.K. Rowling and all of the video production people that worked on the Harry Potter movies: After seeing HP and the Deathly Hallows this week, I finally realize and can appreciate how much HP has impacted my childhood. Though I'm excited for the last movie to come out this summer, I'm also sad that its going to be over. I’ve stuck with the series since the beginning, and will always remember waiting for my acceptance letter on my 11th birthday. Though I never received that letter (le cry), may that kind of magic never leave this world.

I could probably list another 10 or 20 people, including the professors that I pay to inspire new ideas and thoughts in my head, but I'm starting to slip into a food-induced coma. Just know that I love you guys. So what are you thankful for? Post a comment and the link to your blog and I’ll check it out over the weekend! And now, a lulzy turkey picture to make your night:

HAPPY TURKEY DAY EVERYONE!