Give Thanks

In honour of the holiday weekend, where many a household will be feasting on Turkey, Ham, or Prime Rib (*drool*) and all the fixings, I have come up with a list of things I am thankful for to share with the world.  Because I can't share my fab-U-lous cooking or baking, although I would be more than happy to set an extra place and welcome you to join us, all of you really are dying to know what I think should be mentioned here aren't you?  Yes.  That's right.  Nod your heads and continue reading.

1. Leaves on the ground.  They sound like a fresh bowl of cornflakes as they are poured out of the box while we gather them in piles to hide in...half-naked trees waiting calmly for winter to approach gazing despondently down upon us as we play in what is left of their past glory.

2. The smell of wood fireplaces burning, and of the promise of clean, cold air soon to be followed by a blanket of pure white.

3. Sunshiny days full of fun activities that lead to cozy nights huddled under blankets sipping hot tea.

4. Prayer.  Knowing others are seeking help on my behalf and knowing because of Christ, God hears us.  I am able to share all my thoughts, dreams and desires with Him knowing He is cultivating my heart to do His will.

5. Hot chocolate. 'nuff said.

6. Potty Training.  Ditto.

7. Being accepted and loved for who I am right now regardless of who I am right now.

8. Eagerly learning along with my children what this world has to offer and discovering anew Culture, Art, Literature, Nature, History, Science, Imagination.

9. Teaching my children to fear The Lord.

10. Being the wife to the most patient, loving, unselfish man I couldn't have even dreamed of.

11. Snickerdoodle cookies, home-made Lara Bars and coconut milk.  Yes.  Gluten free goodness is where it's at.

12.  Friendship.  It's hard work, but the harvest is plentiful.

13.  Grief.   Sorrow.  Pain.  Why?  Joy, Healing, and Reconciliation is that much sweeter.

14.  Laughter.

15.  Hugs.  Doesn't matter who it's from as long as it isn't a creepy stalker.  Trust me.  Creepy stalkers don't give real hugs.

16.  Animals.  Dogs.  Cats.  Ground hogs.  Rabbits.  Horses.  Those that are a companion and even those that aren't.  Although I could care less about squirrels.  Yep.  Still haven't been able to get over that one.

17.  Food.  When in abundance, and when not.  We're always fed.  I have not had to experience watching my children suffer for lack of nourishment.

18.  Beauty.  It can be found anywhere, in anything, as long as you look for it.

19.  Forgiveness.

20.  Words.  I am thankful that I am able to express myself clearly and eloquently (I think) without hindrance from others in neat lines from right to left.  I like the English Language, even though it's watered down the meaning and importance of some words, it works for me.

^{1 Thessalonians 5:18} In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

^{Colossians 3:17} And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

What are you thankful for?  Can you share at least 5 things with me?  Try it.  Once you start, you will have a hard time keeping the number down.  Seriously.  I pray that you and yours had a safe, healthy, yummy holiday and remember to be thankful for each person God has placed in your life, even if you can't see why He did.