I know that number one on my list should be God, and I in no way want to diminish His importance in all of the good that has come into my life. Still, I think that I tend to take my wonderful wife, Janelle, for granted more than anything else in my life. We have had our ups and downs, but we have become an awesome team. Although we do not always see eye-to-eye, I can think of no one with whom I would rather spend my life. We complement each other (although perhaps not complimenting each other enough) and share the right mix of interests to make it so we enjoy our time together (and can survive our time apart).
I also often forget to be appreciative of my children. It's so easy to find things in our offspring that we would like to improve or change, but the truth is that I have amazing kids. While I will not win any father of the year awards, my children have made me a better person. So much of who I am has been formed by having these wonderful children in my life. One of my biggest concerns in moving up to Alaska is that doing so would distance us from our children as they become adults. Still, I am confident that they will be able to find their own ways in life, and that they hopefully won't forget us.
Speaking of parents, my parents have been a tremendous part of my life. Even when I make decisions with which they do not agree, they have helped me and supported me. As I have gotten older, I have recognized more and more how I am a reflection of both of my parents in who I have become as a parent and a person.
For that matter, my siblings, my in-laws, my extended family, my friends, my coworkers, and my students have all greatly shaped who I have become. They have all been amazing reservoirs of strength, motivation, and joy in my life. Sure, they have been occasional sources of frustration, but all-in-all, the good has greatly outweighed the bad.
Basically: Thank you. I hope that I have improved your life at least as much as you have improved mine.