Saturday, November 19, 2011

A Month of Gratitude: The Musings of my Grateful Heart

1.  I am grateful for wonderful parents who brought me into this world, raised me with love and discipline; taught me about right and wrong; and support me still with the memories of their love for me.
2.  What is a good husband? MINE - The man who loves me, helps me, honors his priesthood and me and so much more...
3. Oh the fruit of my loins, those beautiful children I gave birth to - Melissa, strong of spirit, smart, and loving; Amanda, gentle, kind, and a lesson in patience; Kari, sensitive, athletic, and the best hugger in the world; Melanie, independent, playful, "I love you the most, I win!!"(an inside thing); Lyle, my boy, my one and only boy, loyal, loving, and a tease :), and Hannah, last but not least, caring, sweet, tender, where would I be without each of you...
4.  In-law children; Bob, you were the first, were you good enough for our beautiful daughter?  A million times over, YES!!  You are a wonderful husband and father and because you make our daughter happy, you make me happy.  Brooke, oh so quiet when first we met, the mere mention of your name lights up my son's face and now your laughter lights up our lives.  I am thankful for the beautiful woman, inside and out, that you are.  You will always be my favorite daughter-in-law!  And now a new son-in-law, Russell.  Who would have thought that Melanie coming home sick from her mission would lead to marriage so quickly and with someone as fine as you.  I am grateful for all of you and our increased family!
5.  Grandchildren!!  I have always loved, loved, loved being a mom!  People would gush over their grandchildren and I would think that was nice, but nothing could be better than being a mom...something could-grandkids...Josh and Kent keep me young and excited for life!
6.  Good friends...some I have known all my life and some for just a few years but all add dimension, happiness, wisdom, and joy to my life.
7.  Extended family...I know some marry into families that aren't so great but I have been blessed to marry into a supportive, loving family.  I know someone always has my back..I love you all!
8.  The gospel of Jesus Christ and a knowledge and testimony that I have a Savior all of which are an important part of who I am.
9.  I'm thankful for a soft bed, warm blanket, and a good night's sleep.  It always makes the next day easier to live.
10.  I'm grateful to have the ability to care for and have compassion for the aged, my life has been blessed indeed because of the opportunities I have had to give such care.
11.  I'm thankful for modern medicine.
12.  I'm grateful for a car so I can go to see all those I love whenever I can.  It makes me really glad that I didn't live in the days of wagons where distance made it difficult to be with the ones you love.
13.  I love, love, love rocky road ice cream...it can make difficult times sweeter.
14.  My pets...and the unconditional love they give.
15.  I am so glad I can read...reading can transport me to any place, any time.  It can teach me, comfort me, encourage me...
16.  I am thankful for my husband's job! 
17.  I am grateful for the new floor in my house and for the help of our children in getting it put in.  It makes me feel good to walk in the door and know that our ability to work together makes all things possible.
18.  I am thankful for my second set of parents - Ray's mom and dad who treat me like their own.
19.  I am thankful that we get to spend Christmas all together at a cabin this year.
20.  I have been blessed to take some wonderful vacations...I love a good time.
21.  Family reunions....if you've been to one of ours, you know why it is a blessing in my life and one I am truly grateful for.
22.  Connecting with friends over Facebook.  Not long before my dad passed, I connected with a friend from high school.  His encouragement, support and love saw me through a very difficult time.  Thanks, Bert!
23.  I am thankful there are people who want to do pedicures and manicures...and I love pedicures!
24.  I am thankful for Hannah's willingness to cook dinner!!
25.  Money...lets face it, money makes so many things easier and I am thankful we have enough for our needs with a little left over for our wants.
26.  Temples and forever families...I want to be with my own family and the Lord has shown me how.
27.  A clean house...always one of the best gifts from my children and husband.  A clean house helps me have a clear mind.
28.  Breakfast in bed, cold bacon and all, on Mother's day morning.
29.  Kari's funny dances and songs...they always bring a smile and make me glad she is mine.
30.  I am thankful for my home and for the gatherings we have here, the warmth we share, the games we play, the laughter that flows easily and even for the troubles we sometimes have, because as we come together, our love is increased, our joy overflows, and all things are possible...because we are FAMILY.

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