It's been six years since I started writing this column (that's right folks, six years). And in each of those six years, I've shared my thanks each year at Thanksgiving time.
Most years, they consist of slightly humorous things, such as my fantasy football team (which doesn't get any thanks this year 'cause they stink), my cell phone (still very thankful for my Crackberry) and Sheetz (who's not thankful for Sheetz?).
This year, folks, will be no different. Like many things at the holidays, why ruin tradition?
First of all, I would like to send the biggest thanks I can possibly send to Justin Bieber. That's right, folks. Every tween girls' heartthrob, the 2010 version of Joey McIntyre, Justin Bieber.
Why am I thanking the Bieber? Is it for his haircut? Is it for calling out and trying to get under the skin of Tom Brady? No. It's neither of those. It's for him making such catchy songs that it is impossible to turn his songs off the radio - or to not download them on my iPod.
I always thought liking his music was going to have to be a dirty little secret of mine. So when I downloaded his music on my iPod, I used the excuse that it was for "dance class" purposes. I teach 10-year-olds, and 10-year-olds love Bieber. Great excuse.
However, I found that I was not the only one who had a small case of Bieber Fever. A few weeks ago, one of my closest friends (who I will not name) and I were singing one of his songs at the top of our lungs in my car. Why were two grown women singing "I'm gonna tell you one time!" at the top of our lungs? Because it's catchy. And we can't help ourselves.
We couldn't fight the fever. I've got a fever. And the only cure? Not more cowbell. More Bieber.
Secondly, I'd like to thank the Cleveland Browns. Yes, I realize the Browns have only won three games this season and now quarterback Colt McCoy is hurt and probably done for the season, but he and the Browns did something that not many people thought would happen this year - restored faith in Cleveland football.
I forgot what it was like to get excited on Sundays. I've had so many years of disappointment, compiled with shattered dreams and taunts from Steelers' fans, that I forgot what it was like to watch football, and have your team actually still be in the game in the fourth quarter.
I was never one of these delusional fans that thought we were playoff bound, but I am a fan that realizes that things are finally going in the right direction. Now, once they draft a top-end wide receiver, they are on their way.
Sidenote: I love Peyton Hills. I'm very, very, thankful for him. And his arms. They are very nice-looking arms. Thank you, Denver, for giving us this great gift. How's Brady Quinn doing?
Lastly, and on my always serious last note, I'd like to thank all my readers, friends and family for six years of getting to write about my semi-comical life on a regular basis. If you all didn't keep reading, I wouldn't be writing. So thanks for reading. And thanks for being my fan on Facebook.
What? You're not my fan on Facebook yet? I suggest you go to your computer right now and add me. I'd be very thankful if you did.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone.