Please keep in mind this holiday season that there are many in the current administration who will find themselves without a job soon. Please keep them in your prayers. That being said, I am thankful for my Spouse, my children and my loved ones in general.
Willy, Sling, Soccermom, Walk, Demo, Norse, et al. They consistently make a case for patience and humility. Though I’m only smitten with one, each brings something to the table. I’m guessing all would bring booze if asked politely.
Really too many gifts to mention. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
- Robert the Bruce - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:29 am:
My family and I are all healthy. Simple as that.
- The Colossus of Roads - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:37 am:
I am thankful for everything I have including my family, a roof over my head, gas in the car, food in the pantry and good health. Here’s hoping everyone has a happy Thanksgiving.
==I’m guessing all would bring booze if asked politely==
Time and place @A guy. Lol.
I’m thankful that I have wonderful kids, a loving wife, a good job, parents that are still around, and a generally happy life. I’ve truly been blessed.
- lake county democrat - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:47 am:
I’m thankful that Rich keeps commenters identities confidential, else I probably wouldn’t have a job anymore.
I’m thankful for family, they love you warts and all.
I’m thankful to friends who bring Chicken Soup, and even the friends who don’t.
I’m thankful for memories, good, bad, all of them.
I’m thankful for health.
I’m thankful Rich keeps identities secret, and the “family” found here…and freedom of speech, and that ideas between people are unencumbered by government.
I’m thankful for leisure; too many know what it means to struggle every day for the things I may take for granted.
I’m thankful, I’m grateful.
I’ll bring a bottle, if I get to choose it.
OW
Sam/Frank - thanks.
- Grandson of Man - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:04 pm:
I am grateful for my family’s, friends’ and my health and well-being. I am thankful that we have jobs and are able to support ourselves and each other.
I am grateful for my wonderful colleagues at work and fellow union members.
I’m also grateful for Rich and many of the commenters on this blog. I get far more from this blog than I could ever give. Rich is fair, tolerant and brutally honest.
I now live in a state that has met its public pension funding obligations, has no teacher unions, has a progressive but lower max tax rate that Illinois’ flat rate, and my kids attend a state business school in a program rated higher than U of I for only about $3,000 tuition per semester each. Finally, I’m living in a state where the elected representatives are as Republican as those in Illinois are Democrat….Thanks be to God and Hallelujah!
When the 16 year old hit a light pole and the only that was hurt was the car (and the light pole) also her knee (she blew out her ACL this year as well) is doing well and she is back to full activity….
A life that is much more interesting and fun than I expected…
When I observe both my kids doing things that make me think I have not completely screwed up this parenting thing…
- Jake From Elwood - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:18 pm:
Word, my favorite holiday also. Hands down.
I am thankful for my family and friends, our health, to live in a safe community, and possess a nice home, warm bed and stocked pantry. I am grateful for my job, and my ability to live in a democracy and practice the religion of my choice.
I am thankful to be loved. I can’t make it home for the holidays this year but just knowing there are people out there that care about me is enough, it’s all I have.
For the recent Judge Belz’ decision that allows me to retire on Dec. 23 of this year with dignity. For my wife who is in her fourth year of life after surviving cancer surgery. For a church family that genuinely cares for one another. And, for a nation where I still have the option to choose to believe in a God who watches over me and my family and who loves me.
My family, of course. I love every, single member of my family, without exception.
My puppy Oscar. I am so much happier when he’s by my side.
My non-political friends for keeping me sane.
My political friends for keeping me informed and entertained.
My country for keeping me free.
My state for providing me with an opportunity like nowhere else in the world.
My subscribers, for giving me the rarest of opportunities to write for a living about a subject I love. I owe everything to you.
My blog readers for allowing me to opine on stuff that doesn’t fit in the Fax and have even more fun with Illinois politics.
My blog advertisers for paying me to do what I would be doing anyway.
And last, but definitely not least, my commenters for helping me create a real community that so many folks want to be a part of. I tried to do it without you once, but it didn’t work. This blog could not prosper with the comment section.
relatively good health, a supportive husband, enough to feed the family, football, football, the White Sox, wonderful interesting friends, and tons of fun on this blog.
- Finally Out (formerly Ready to Get Out) - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:50 pm:
Family and the great year we’ve had together.
Visits with old friends.
My fellow veterans and those now serving.
Being an “ex” State of IL employee, now retired.
Living in the USA…
I’m thankful for heath not only for my family but also myself. I’m thankful for some good friends. Finally, I’m thankful to have a gig that allows me to provide for my family and have a little extra to do some nice things once in a while.
I’m thankful that Arizona Bob is not running around Chicago.
But in all seriousness, although I’m thankful for the health of my family and myself, it is a bit different this year because over the past few months,that health was in some doubt. Sometimes you need a bit of a scare to let you know what is most important.
Although I’ve had more than a few sometimes somewhat heated debates with Oswego Willy over the past year (usually ending with us both calling the other a dope), I appreciate that he’s one of the few people I’ve interacted with who is both fiercely partisan but also willing to call it against his own side when it is appropriate.
That’s a rare perspective which makes the interaction far more interesting. And yes, although it does get heated at times, I admit that I enjoy the battles and I’m thankful for the opportunity to get my mind off my work a bit each day to trade ideas with others who have conflicting viewpoints.
I’m thankful for having the best partner in the whole world plus being constantly amazed that our relationship has lasted so many years.
I’m thankful for my 2 koo koo dogs who make life interesting thru their zany antics.
I’m thankful that Mr Belle introduced me to international travel since we have shared so many crazy, wild experiences.
I am also thankful for super amazing friends who seem to pop in and out of my life at perfectly random times offering all kinds of different opportunities and ideas.
I’m thankful for Chicago and IL politics since one is never without a topic of conversation in this city/state. Plus, it led me to this fun, smart, polite, and educational blog.
Politically speaking, I am thankful that Governor-elect Bruce Rauner is showing early signs of “getting it”. Seems to be making a good-faith effort of finding away to work with the leaders rather than simply demonize them. Seems like he wants to do things the right way. Even though I didn’t vote for him and have been critical of him, he has exceeded my expectations in the very early going.
My family
Lisa Madigan minding the store
Dave Ellis headed to the bench
Capt Fax for letting thousands earn good livings by pretending they are in the know
Oscar the Puppy for proving small people can be good service critters
Wife and I are on the right side of the grass and in good health. Kids and their significant ones are doing fine. The job is fun with some terrific co-workers. Got good friends who are doing well. The rest is just stuff that happens.
cancer free
happily married
father to two amazing humans
professor to those studying the law
servant to those who served this great country
yo pass the gravy!
=I’m thankful that - Arizona Bob - misses the point of understanding what it means to be thankful and grateful.=
I’m also thankful and grateful that my prayers have been answered that the Good Lord bless and keep Oswego Willy……far away from being able to do any damage in Arizona!LOL
In all seriousness, OW, may you and yours have a blessed Thanksgiving.
I’m grateful for my boss, who is one of the finest humans on the planet and never fails to make life interesting. This is important as I spend more time with him than anyone else.
I’m grateful for my family and my family of friends. I am truly blessed!
I’m grateful for the always astonishing kindness of strangers, such as the Home Depot manager who came to my house to fix a hole I accidentally knocked in a 100 year old plaster wall. Voluntarily. For free. After a long shift. Just to be nice.
I’m extremely grateful that this year was free from large veterinary bills and that my “babies” are healthy.
Today I’m thankful that World Market has all wine 20% off. My hostesses tomorrow are getting better bottles!
Happy Thanksgiving Rich!
I totally share the sentiments of Rich and Willy - well stated. I have my own Oscar, and Willy, I know what you say about family but I am not a Cubs fan - Go Cards.
Although I am an infrequent contributor, I am thankful for this forum, the quality of information provided, the opportunity to have started a thread that did get responses several months ago and the opportunity to vent my frustrations and thoughts, when appropriate
Thank you Rich for everything you provide us and thanks to everyone who shares their perspectives, comments and thoughts.
I am thankful for my family - especially for my wife, ms dupage dan. What she has put up with for 32 years is nothing short of amazing. What we have planned - God willing - is not possible without her wholehearted support. I am thankful for my 92 y/o father and my 2 remaining siblings. I am thankful for my nieces and nephews - they haven’t fallen far from the family tree, bless them. I am thankful for my health - I’ve had my moments over the years. I am thankful for a great medical system and the folks who work in it - I owe them my life. I am thankful for Rich Miller and CapFax and the whole group of folks who opine here….ok, most of them anyway. I am thankful for this country. I am thankful for those who have served her and sacrificed some or all - specifically my niece (Sargeant, Wisc National Guard), my nephew (Sargeant, US Army) and my son, LCpl - USMC.
Thanks that we live in a great Country. A country that allows us to speak with out fear of punishment and retaliation. Thanks to all of those who died so we might live in a free world. So to all of those who served “God Bless”
And finally to my great wife and children and to the good health we have.
Happy Thanksgiving to all
- Someone you should know - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:16 am:
My Family and our health, there is nothing more important than that
- Pelon - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:18 am:
My family, my friends, and my two wonderful dogs.
- John Birch - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:22 am:
I’m thankful that I was born in the USA.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:22 am:
Please keep in mind this holiday season that there are many in the current administration who will find themselves without a job soon. Please keep them in your prayers. That being said, I am thankful for my Spouse, my children and my loved ones in general.
- A guy... - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:26 am:
Willy, Sling, Soccermom, Walk, Demo, Norse, et al. They consistently make a case for patience and humility. Though I’m only smitten with one, each brings something to the table. I’m guessing all would bring booze if asked politely.
Really too many gifts to mention. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
- Robert the Bruce - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:29 am:
My family and I are all healthy. Simple as that.
- The Colossus of Roads - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:37 am:
I am thankful for everything I have including my family, a roof over my head, gas in the car, food in the pantry and good health. Here’s hoping everyone has a happy Thanksgiving.
- walker - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:42 am:
Freedom of Speech, and this blog.
Son and girlfriend home for Thanksgiving.
Living in America.
- Demoralized - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:45 am:
==I’m guessing all would bring booze if asked politely==
Time and place @A guy. Lol.
I’m thankful that I have wonderful kids, a loving wife, a good job, parents that are still around, and a generally happy life. I’ve truly been blessed.
- lake county democrat - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:47 am:
I’m thankful that Rich keeps commenters identities confidential, else I probably wouldn’t have a job anymore.
- MrJM - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:51 am:
“Your reason(s) to be thankful this year?”
I’m thankful for being one of the most fortunate people in the history of the human species.
– MrJM
- Wordslinger - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 11:58 am:
True that, MJM. Don’t have to look around the world much or too far back in history to see that.
Healthy, happy, safe family. After that, it’s all gravy, which I’ll be consuming by the gallons the next few days.
Parades, football, movies, family, tons of great food, no gifts.
Best holiday.
- Give Me A Break - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:00 pm:
My job, my family and our health.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:04 pm:
I’m thankful for family, they love you warts and all.
I’m thankful to friends who bring Chicken Soup, and even the friends who don’t.
I’m thankful for memories, good, bad, all of them.
I’m thankful for health.
I’m thankful Rich keeps identities secret, and the “family” found here…and freedom of speech, and that ideas between people are unencumbered by government.
I’m thankful for leisure; too many know what it means to struggle every day for the things I may take for granted.
I’m thankful, I’m grateful.
I’ll bring a bottle, if I get to choose it.
OW
Sam/Frank - thanks.
- Grandson of Man - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:04 pm:
I am grateful for my family’s, friends’ and my health and well-being. I am thankful that we have jobs and are able to support ourselves and each other.
I am grateful for my wonderful colleagues at work and fellow union members.
I’m also grateful for Rich and many of the commenters on this blog. I get far more from this blog than I could ever give. Rich is fair, tolerant and brutally honest.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving.
- Arizona Bob - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:05 pm:
I now live in a state that has met its public pension funding obligations, has no teacher unions, has a progressive but lower max tax rate that Illinois’ flat rate, and my kids attend a state business school in a program rated higher than U of I for only about $3,000 tuition per semester each. Finally, I’m living in a state where the elected representatives are as Republican as those in Illinois are Democrat….Thanks be to God and Hallelujah!
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:08 pm:
I’m thankful that - Arizona Bob - misses the point of understanding what it means to be thankful and grateful.
- OneMan - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:13 pm:
When the 16 year old hit a light pole and the only that was hurt was the car (and the light pole) also her knee (she blew out her ACL this year as well) is doing well and she is back to full activity….
A life that is much more interesting and fun than I expected…
When I observe both my kids doing things that make me think I have not completely screwed up this parenting thing…
Smart people I disagree with.
- 1776 - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:17 pm:
Republican Governor.
- Jake From Elwood - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:18 pm:
Word, my favorite holiday also. Hands down.
I am thankful for my family and friends, our health, to live in a safe community, and possess a nice home, warm bed and stocked pantry. I am grateful for my job, and my ability to live in a democracy and practice the religion of my choice.
- RNUG - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:20 pm:
Family, health, enough worldly goods to be (mostly) comfortable and able to donate some to others.
- prisoner of cook - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:22 pm:
I’m thankful for friends & family; also Judge Belz, RNUG and other informed commenters.
- AWL - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:24 pm:
I am thankful to be loved. I can’t make it home for the holidays this year but just knowing there are people out there that care about me is enough, it’s all I have.
- Skeptical - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:35 pm:
For the recent Judge Belz’ decision that allows me to retire on Dec. 23 of this year with dignity. For my wife who is in her fourth year of life after surviving cancer surgery. For a church family that genuinely cares for one another. And, for a nation where I still have the option to choose to believe in a God who watches over me and my family and who loves me.
- Rich Miller - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:42 pm:
My family, of course. I love every, single member of my family, without exception.
My puppy Oscar. I am so much happier when he’s by my side.
My non-political friends for keeping me sane.
My political friends for keeping me informed and entertained.
My country for keeping me free.
My state for providing me with an opportunity like nowhere else in the world.
My subscribers, for giving me the rarest of opportunities to write for a living about a subject I love. I owe everything to you.
My blog readers for allowing me to opine on stuff that doesn’t fit in the Fax and have even more fun with Illinois politics.
My blog advertisers for paying me to do what I would be doing anyway.
And last, but definitely not least, my commenters for helping me create a real community that so many folks want to be a part of. I tried to do it without you once, but it didn’t work. This blog could not prosper with the comment section.
Thanks!
- Amalia - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:46 pm:
relatively good health, a supportive husband, enough to feed the family, football, football, the White Sox, wonderful interesting friends, and tons of fun on this blog.
- VanillaMan - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:46 pm:
I am thankful for my VanillaFamily.
- Finally Out (formerly Ready to Get Out) - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:50 pm:
Family and the great year we’ve had together.
Visits with old friends.
My fellow veterans and those now serving.
Being an “ex” State of IL employee, now retired.
Living in the USA…
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 12:59 pm:
I feel like there could easily be nothing at all as opposed to something. Thankful that there is something.
- Stones - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 1:12 pm:
I’m thankful for heath not only for my family but also myself. I’m thankful for some good friends. Finally, I’m thankful to have a gig that allows me to provide for my family and have a little extra to do some nice things once in a while.
- Gooner - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 1:16 pm:
I’m thankful that Arizona Bob is not running around Chicago.
But in all seriousness, although I’m thankful for the health of my family and myself, it is a bit different this year because over the past few months,that health was in some doubt. Sometimes you need a bit of a scare to let you know what is most important.
- Gooner - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 1:21 pm:
Let me add one more –
Although I’ve had more than a few sometimes somewhat heated debates with Oswego Willy over the past year (usually ending with us both calling the other a dope), I appreciate that he’s one of the few people I’ve interacted with who is both fiercely partisan but also willing to call it against his own side when it is appropriate.
That’s a rare perspective which makes the interaction far more interesting. And yes, although it does get heated at times, I admit that I enjoy the battles and I’m thankful for the opportunity to get my mind off my work a bit each day to trade ideas with others who have conflicting viewpoints.
- gman - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 1:21 pm:
Strike next summer? The time off might be nice
- Belle - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 1:23 pm:
I’m thankful for having the best partner in the whole world plus being constantly amazed that our relationship has lasted so many years.
I’m thankful for my 2 koo koo dogs who make life interesting thru their zany antics.
I’m thankful that Mr Belle introduced me to international travel since we have shared so many crazy, wild experiences.
I am also thankful for super amazing friends who seem to pop in and out of my life at perfectly random times offering all kinds of different opportunities and ideas.
I’m thankful for Chicago and IL politics since one is never without a topic of conversation in this city/state. Plus, it led me to this fun, smart, polite, and educational blog.
- gman - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 1:23 pm:
Jk btw
- SAP - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 1:41 pm:
Politically speaking, I am thankful that Governor-elect Bruce Rauner is showing early signs of “getting it”. Seems to be making a good-faith effort of finding away to work with the leaders rather than simply demonize them. Seems like he wants to do things the right way. Even though I didn’t vote for him and have been critical of him, he has exceeded my expectations in the very early going.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 1:44 pm:
- Gooner -,
We argue hardest and loudest with family, and in the end, they’re family.
Rich has made this community a family, I never take it personally, I’m glad you take the encounters the same.
I try to call it as I see it, I’m glad you appreciate that too.
Happy Thanksgiving, and I wish you and yours the best.
OW
- Nearly Normal - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 2:00 pm:
Good health, great family and friends.
Enjoy the time spent here learning and laughing.
Thanks Rich.
- circular firing squad - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 2:02 pm:
My family
Lisa Madigan minding the store
Dave Ellis headed to the bench
Capt Fax for letting thousands earn good livings by pretending they are in the know
Oscar the Puppy for proving small people can be good service critters
- MeritMan - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 2:04 pm:
I’m thankful for the Illinois Constitution.
- William j Kelly - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 2:06 pm:
Thanks? For the memories! Rememberamericafoundation.org
- zatoichi - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 2:06 pm:
Wife and I are on the right side of the grass and in good health. Kids and their significant ones are doing fine. The job is fun with some terrific co-workers. Got good friends who are doing well. The rest is just stuff that happens.
- 21st State - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 2:28 pm:
cancer free
happily married
father to two amazing humans
professor to those studying the law
servant to those who served this great country
yo pass the gravy!
- Arizona Bob - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 2:36 pm:
@OW
=I’m thankful that - Arizona Bob - misses the point of understanding what it means to be thankful and grateful.=
I’m also thankful and grateful that my prayers have been answered that the Good Lord bless and keep Oswego Willy……far away from being able to do any damage in Arizona!LOL
In all seriousness, OW, may you and yours have a blessed Thanksgiving.
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 2:41 pm:
- Arizona Bob -,
I may head to Cubs Spring Training, if I go, I’ll give fair warning.
Same to you and yours, Happy Thanksgiving. OW
- Redux - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 3:08 pm:
I’m grateful for my boss, who is one of the finest humans on the planet and never fails to make life interesting. This is important as I spend more time with him than anyone else.
I’m grateful for my family and my family of friends. I am truly blessed!
I’m grateful for the always astonishing kindness of strangers, such as the Home Depot manager who came to my house to fix a hole I accidentally knocked in a 100 year old plaster wall. Voluntarily. For free. After a long shift. Just to be nice.
I’m extremely grateful that this year was free from large veterinary bills and that my “babies” are healthy.
Today I’m thankful that World Market has all wine 20% off. My hostesses tomorrow are getting better bottles!
Happy Thanksgiving Rich!
- illini - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 3:09 pm:
I totally share the sentiments of Rich and Willy - well stated. I have my own Oscar, and Willy, I know what you say about family but I am not a Cubs fan - Go Cards.
Although I am an infrequent contributor, I am thankful for this forum, the quality of information provided, the opportunity to have started a thread that did get responses several months ago and the opportunity to vent my frustrations and thoughts, when appropriate
Thank you Rich for everything you provide us and thanks to everyone who shares their perspectives, comments and thoughts.
- dupage dan - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 3:30 pm:
I am thankful for my family - especially for my wife, ms dupage dan. What she has put up with for 32 years is nothing short of amazing. What we have planned - God willing - is not possible without her wholehearted support. I am thankful for my 92 y/o father and my 2 remaining siblings. I am thankful for my nieces and nephews - they haven’t fallen far from the family tree, bless them. I am thankful for my health - I’ve had my moments over the years. I am thankful for a great medical system and the folks who work in it - I owe them my life. I am thankful for Rich Miller and CapFax and the whole group of folks who opine here….ok, most of them anyway. I am thankful for this country. I am thankful for those who have served her and sacrificed some or all - specifically my niece (Sargeant, Wisc National Guard), my nephew (Sargeant, US Army) and my son, LCpl - USMC.
- Jechislo - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 3:52 pm:
Good family health. Living in the USA.
Finally not having a democrat as governor.
- Anonymous - Wednesday, Nov 26, 14 @ 4:01 pm:
Thanks that we live in a great Country. A country that allows us to speak with out fear of punishment and retaliation. Thanks to all of those who died so we might live in a free world. So to all of those who served “God Bless”
And finally to my great wife and children and to the good health we have.
Happy Thanksgiving to all