Today's Gratitudes

Boy, that turkey tryptophan must really work! No matter how stressed or un-stressed I am for a holiday season, when Thanksgiving morning hits, I am usually pretty mellow and relaxed. Which is good, because it gives me a good chance to reflect on all that I am thankful for. What a great holiday! If we didn't have Thanksgiving, how many of us would really stop and say hey, I've been blessed?

So since I can't possibly name it all, I'm only going to name a few things. There is no particular order.

• Even with no order... it's easy to start: Todd is the best! And years ago when I said yes to him, I didn't realize how lucky I truly was. I love you, sweetheart!
  


• My children are all such individuals, but they are all so amazing. I could name traits and characteristics for hours; I love them each for themselves and the great people they are and are becoming.
  


• Our extended family and friends. The support and influence they have been to us is wonderful.


• Having the gospel of Jesus Christ in our lives is a blessing beyond comparison. I would not want to be without the blessings and guidance we have today.


• This country and the brave and valiant ones who have fought to make and keep our liberty and the freedoms we enjoy. It's not perfect but there's no place on earth I'd rather live.


• Our home, not just for the HAVEN it is, the warmth and shelter it provides, but also because it represents a place where we can shut off negative outside influences and focus on each other.

Of course there is so much more. Being a mom again at this time in my life. People often tell me they couldn't or wouldn't ever do something like that. And I see them look at me with pity in their eyes. Oh, if they only knew what this is like for us! I can't express the joy that we have because of a baby.

Having a missionary son serving right now is a blessing and an experience we really appreciate. Even though it's a first (for him and for us!) to have one of ours away from home, we know this is where he is meant to be. Who can say what his influence may be for others?

Talents and gifts -- mine, Todd's, our children's. I hope and pray we can build on what we've been given. I love the quote from Erma Bombeck:

"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, 'I used everything You gave me.'

Our health, our community, snow in winter, sun in summer, brilliant fall colors and beautiful spring flowers. Hot water. Oh my goodness, there have been dozens of times that I have stood in the shower, thankful for the hot water that comes pouring down!!!

Technology and the amazing things that are possible now, that have never in history been possible. Good books. Great photography that captures moments. Nice people.

I hope you get a chance to think about all you are blessed with, and have a very happy Thanksgiving Day!!