A Few Random things For Which I'm Grateful:
* Pandora. I'm listening to Christmas tunes right now on one of three radio stations that I've designed myself. I never have to listen to a song I don't like... and this is all free. As a kid, I never would have imagined that kind of luxury. I'm truly grateful for technology and how it sweetens my life.
* Matching Senses of Humor. I'm grateful that the three of us share the same twisted brand of humor. This has drawn and held us together in times of stress and frustration. Laughter makes pretty much everything better.
* Church Callings. I love that every couple of years my life is shifted by an outside force. One year I'm studying doctrines to teach adults, another I'm a party planner and then I find myself presenting flannel board stories to 3-year olds. I don't choose where I serve but I've never had a calling that I haven't 1) grown from and 2) gained a new friend. It's one of life's miracles.
* Being married to someone who is so different from who I am. Steve is the perfect foil for me. We see things so differently and this has taught me so much over the years.
* Uncertainty. It is the most uncomfortable feeling, but I have come to appreciate the way this causes me to stop leaning "on the arm of man" and drives me to a reliance on a the only sure foundation: a Loving Father in Heaven and His Son. I can't see the path, but I'm learning to trust that He will guide me through it.
* Health. Possibly the most unappreciated blessing in my 46 years.
* A Happy Son. I don't know how Brian manages it, but from half a world away, he brightens my day each day by his unfailing positive attitude.
* 5th Place. How grateful I am to have raised my son in the Cul de Sac that time forgot. With neighbors who have taught our family about service, compassion and humor. My hope is that I'll grow old and die there as well.
* Friends of different ages: Those who are older and wiser who I want to emulate, those who are younger and more energetic who motivate to keep trying new things, those who share a million memories of raising our children together. And for Pat, who I hardly see, but who I can't remember a time before her. She is my first memory and though years may go by between visits, there is not an ounce of discomfort or awkwardness.
* Friends to whom I'm related. I've heard the quote, "Friends are God's apology for our families." But God owes me no apologies. My family members are among my dearest friends.
*This time of year. I love Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the feeling that comes with this season...
