Thankful

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, so I wanted to take a minute to reflect on the things I am truly thankful for.

First of all, I have to mention that in addition to Thanksgiving, it is my mom's birthday, so I get to do a combined happy birthday/thankful for.  Mom is a truly beautiful person, both inside and out.  She is always thinking about other people and doing so much for those who are in need, whether it is physical, financial, emotional, or most importantly, spiritually.  She stays busy with her Tuesday morning Bible study, working/volunteering at the hospital, preparing meals for the local hospice...I could go on and on.  She has been such an inspiration to me, and I hope that when I grow up, I can be just like her.  :)  Happy birthday, Mom!  I love you!

Next, Dad's birthday is Saturday, so let me do the same for him.  Growing up, Dad wasn't the most affectionate person, but that goes back to his upbringing.  When you grow up in a family that doesn't express love, it's kind of hard to be all mushy.  There is no doubt in my mind at all that he loves me, though, and I know that at any time, all I would have to do is pick up the phone and he'd be there for me.  He provided a great home for us, and he set high expectations for us.  I know that much of my stubbornness comes from him, and I'm glad I have that streak in me.  :)  Happy birthday to you, too, Dad!  I love you!

I am so thankful for my wonderful husband and our beautiful children and grandson.  God knew what I needed to make my life complete.  Even though I thought I knew what I needed, He guided me to what I really needed.  I thank Him each and every day for John, Katy, Phillip, Sam, Jessi, and Lance.  These are the people who make my life complete.  I cannot wait for the day that He adds to our wonderful family!

God has also blessed me by giving me some of the best friends a person could ever dream of having.  It would be impossible for me to name them all because I know that I would leave someone out.  (That sounds sort of like an acceptance speech, doesn't it?)  I would feel horrible if I overlooked someone and caused hurt feelings.  So, let me just say that if you consider yourself my friend, I am extremely thankful for you, and I love you!

John and I both have good jobs, which is not something far too many people have in today's economy.  Not only do we have good jobs, but we both love our jobs and the people we work with.  I talk about how ready I am to retire, but honestly, I will miss my kids and my colleagues.  (I will NOT miss the grading though!  LOL)

We also have a beautiful home which is filled with love and laughter.  Our bellies have plenty (as anyone who sees us can tell...)  We have all of our needs met, and we can even have many of our wants fulfilled.

I know I could go on and on, but I think I'm about to call it a night.

I hope each of you has a wonderful Thanksgiving, one filled with laughter and love.