My career

While I am no Kalen or Paul or Itzik or Erland (or… the list could go on and on), I am very thankful that I have been able to shape a moderately successful career around SQL Server.  More importantly, I am thankful that the market continues to provide Microsoft with the motivation to improve upon the platform with each successive version.  So one level of thanks goes out to:

• all of the people at Microsoft who contribute to the product;
• all of the people who use Connect to provide feedback on the product; 
• all of the people that I have worked with and for, who have provided, and continue to provide, the means to progress my career;
• all of the people who struggle with SQL Server, providing an opportunity for folks like me to help; and,
• all of the people who blog and tweet about SQL Server, or volunteer for orgnizations like PASS.  By raising awareness, explaining how you solve problems, or just assisting in other users' networking opportunities, you motivate all of us to participate in the community in various ways more so than we would otherwise.  And without a community around SQL Server, where would any of us be?

My boys

On a non-technical note, I am quite thankful that I have had the ability to rescue two abused and neglected beagles, Kirby and Quigley:

Seeing these dogs transform quite literally into loving members of my family has been a joy that I can't possibly describe.

My Loved Ones

And last but not least, I wouldn't be where I am without the help of the people around me.  Between my family, Nicole, and my circle of friends, I couldn't ask for more love and support.  These people are there for me whether I am facing struggles at work, getting my radar detector confiscated, or getting my crotch burned by a careless Dunkin' Donuts employee.

…

I hope you are enjoying your Thanksgiving.  For those not celebrating, I still urge you to take a moment and think about the elements in your life that you are thankful for.