I have never been a HUGE thanksgiving person. I like it, but I LOVE christmas. This year I have been making an effort to not forget this holiday- because I really do think that its important that we acknowledge the things in our life that we are thankful for. It is so important and gives us a fresh perspective on life. I tried to state something everyday that I was thankful for but I didn't do well. I forgot many times- or just got lazy others. SO today.I.will.force.myself. to write 28 things. Because I think it is good to recognize our blesssing and because I believe that positive, thankful thoughts help other people to generate the same types of thoughts! I am all about positivity today people. SO here they are......
I am thankful for:
1. LOVE. God's love. My husband's love. My family's love. It really is what makes this world go round- literally- and it causes us to act. and be better. its a good thing.
2. Jake. my support, bestfriend, comforter, we are a crazy pair- but are so so in love <3
3. Family- I know people always say this- so it seems like the right thing to say- but I really do mean it. My family raised me right, gave me a wonderful homeschooled childhood, and continues to support me as an adult woman. That means a ton. I have the most amazing parents and wonderful sister. I couldnt ask for better!
4. Our home. It is cozy and basic and just fine for now. I may complain about my neighborhood or the space- but we really are blessed to have a place to live.
5. my JOB. it can be intense at times. hectic. frusturating. ect. BUT praise God I have a paycheck and some wonderful co-workers. I really am grateful to have a job.
6. a WORKING fridge. this may sound rediculous. but ours official took a poo on us a few weeks ago- and we really didnt want to fork over the money for a new one because we knew we could get a used one if we waited- so we- my adult husband and I lived out of a mini-fridge for weeks. I am now SO grateful for a working fridge. :)
7. A little dog names Rex. My lab-pit mix baby. He is such a pain- honestly sometimes he drives me crazy between his allergies, and hyper approach that he overwhelms visitors with- but he is wonderful and loving too and I couldnt imagine my home without him. it would be horrible.
8. this definately should have gone earlier...but God's GRACE. I fail a million times a week- honestly- but it is so good to know that I am forgiven. - still working on living this out fully- and remembering to confess to God and let go!
9. living by the water. I live by Lake Erie- some of you who are familiar with the Great Lakes are probably cringing. I DONT CARE :) I love the lake. I love swimming. I love sunshine. I love the beachy vibes.
10. all 4 seasons. Thats why I live in Michigan?! I love to experience each season to its fullest. I honestly enjoy them all.
11. gym membership. EKKK!! I will be a member of the YMCA today. SO excited for workout classes in addition to my regular gym time. healthy = happy.
12. Coffee. not only do I love the taste but it starts out my workdays and gives me the jumpstart I need.
13. Clothes. I love clothes and accessories. If I had a little more spending cash I would be trendy 90% of the time. LOVE trendy.
14. life experiences. I have learned and lived so much so far and lookward to the future. experiences mold and shape you into the person that you are....and although I need tons of work....I am happy with the woman that I am becoming.
15. Music. although it used to have a much larger role in my life- leading worship, piano lessons at college, worship band, choir- I still love it. I still have a desire to lead worship again in the future. I love connecting with God in that way. Thats another reason I enjoy church- the music.
16. the last point leads me to Church. I have not been a "regular" attendee in many years but am starting to get back into going. Elevate is a local church that I really enjoy. I think that there is a bigger message out there for us if we just make the effort to go. I learn something everyweek.
17. my car. it gets me to work and back everyday. It may be racking up the miles- but its doing its job.
18. Children. I was a nanny for years and love taking care of them, listening to stories, playing games, ect. Kids bring so much joy into my life!
19. the internet. makes my life and- really everyones- so much easier- too much isnt a good thing- but moderation is everything. I can learn how to do basically anything from work projects to cooking at home with its' help. thank you internet.
20. my college education. yes I am still paying for it. yes I complain about that.. but I learned invaluable lessons and had incredible experiences that arent replaceable. I am so grateful for my Spring Arbor University education!
21. girlfriends. I dont have a gazillion of them...BUT the ones that I have chosen to keep in touch with are wonderful. I am so blessed to have my SISTER as my very very bestfriend- this is something that I treasure so very much. I really do love each of my girlfriends to pieces and am thankful for their advice, funtimes shared, and caring hearts. 90% of them read my blog too...so YES I am talking to you ;)
22. cookies, cake, and candy. I used to always tell my dad when I was a kid that all I wanted to eat was "cookies, cake, and candy" and it's still true to this day. I COULD live on sweets. I have the eating habits of a young child and have to remind myself that this is not healthy and force myself to eat balanced meals.
23. Pinterest. I know this sounds rediculous. but it really does motivate me. It makes me want to work out more, bake more, and be more creative. It is a relazing activity for me. I am grateful for the creators of this wonderful time waster :)
24. America. I am grateful to live in a place where I have freedom of speech and great opportunities. I love this country. I am patriotic unapologetically.
25. inspiration. How can I be grateful for inspiration?! How can I not- things that inspire us cause change and movement. Inspiration comes in many different forms, but it is what moves me to strive to be better. thank goodness for it.
26. current financial stability. I am not saying that things are perfect. I am saying that God Provides. thats it. amen. :)
27. this blog. I am no writer-but I do love to express thoughts and ideas this way. I am grateful that I know at least 2 or 3 people check in from time to time- and I appreciate your kind words!
28. Vacation days. I am grateful for work- and also for the days off that they allow. Vacation is renewing. revitalizing. and neccessary. It gives you a chance to reconnect with others and with yourself. I TREASURE vacation days...only two more work days until a long weekend. Yahoooo.
