Thankful

Apparently, most FB users are giving thanks daily throughout November until Thanksgiving day. Considering my inability to check FB regularly, I thought I'd simply blog about twenty-four blessings for which I'm thankful. So below, in no particular order, is what I'm thankful for.

1. A relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, whose abundant grace covers all my sins

2. Scott, who brings a smile to my face, and who loves me deeply

3. Leah,  whose joyful and loving spirit warms my heart and makes me laugh

4. Hunter, my happy, cuddly baby boy who reminds me to slow down and play

5. My parents and their loving, constant support

6. My in-laws, who truly treat me and love me like a daughter

7. Baby Tylenol, the miracle in a bottle that provides sweet relief to my teething baby

8. Leah's imagination and the many worlds it opens to her ("Mommy, you be Duke --the dog--, and I am Sammy Brown" [From "The Diggingest Dog"] or "Mommy, you be Bob the Tomato, and I am Larry the Cucumber.")

9. A roof over our heads

10. The funds to pay for unexpected (but much needed) home repairs (the chimney comes to mind)

11. A full night's sleep (haven't had one since June 24, but boy, will I enjoy it when I do!)

12. Coffee. Caffeinated. (See why in #11)

13. Girlfriends, who offer encouragement, friendship, a listening ear, and advice (but only when solicited!)

14. Phones and email that allow me to stay in touch with loved ones who are far away (NY, GA, SC, NC)

15. Fresh air and sunny fall days

16. A clean house (working on that one this week)

17. A completed to-do list (yes, I'm Type A, though a mellowed out version thanks to the kids)

18. An engrossing book (Right now it's The Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah. Who wants it next?)

19. Dark chocolate. (I can't believe I didn't mention that earlier!)

20. Baking. There's something comforting about whipping up a batch of cookies for my family or friends. The only drawback (no, it's not extra calories)? Sometimes I'll back instead of working on the to-do list (see #17).

21. Thanksgiving Day itself. Absolute FAVORITE holiday.

22. Scrapbooking. It's my creative venue and release

23. Fuzzy slippers or socks, comfy pajamas, and a roaring fire

24. The freedom to speak my mind and share my opinion without fear of repercussion