And I give thanks

    In the early morning dark I sit with coffee cradled warm within my hands.  My gratitude journal lays open beside me.  I've been on a journey.  A journey to a life more filled with joy and gratitude.  Each day I start by trying to give thanks...especially for the little things, the overlooked things.  Some days I do better then others.  Lists long.  Lists short fill the entries.  I realize how much easier it has become to count, to praise, to thank.  God is opening my eyes to his ever present presence.  Gratefulness for His goodness just this past weekend overwhelms me.   

All the gifts...

    Children eager in the backseat asking every 10 minutes, "How much longer?"  Looking forward to an overnight stay with big sister, Kayt, and her husband, Sam.  Staying up past bedtime, playing games, cooking, and visiting the pumpkin patch all the things they look forward to.  Anticipation builds during this longest ride ever.  And I give thanks.   Thank you for family that loves each other.  Thank you for a daughter who gives of her time so Dad and Mom can have a night out.

    Walking hand in hand through downtown Lawrence.  Freezing wind cutting right through our coats.  Trying out an ice cream shop.  Then gratefully soaking up the heat from the seat warmers in the car.  Looking at the bold beautiful fall colors clothing the trees and admiring the huge majestic homes as we drive around town.  Listening to my husband telling me what types of trees are the best for the hundredth time.  Eating dinner late at night in a small Italian cafe'.  Falling asleep at the hotel before the movie was over.  Sleeping in.  Waking to the quiet of no children, no hurry, no schedule with my husband warm beside me.  And I give thanks.  Thank you for my husband who wants to spend time with me, cherishes me, and loves me.

    Time in Salina, crowded in Dad and Mom's living room.  Dad dealing with a serious illness.  He is optimistic.  Tells his stories.  Sits and falls asleep amidst the chatter.  Always ready to offer dessert when he wakens.  Mom's concern in her voice, in the tears that gather in her eyes, and in her choked voice.  Determined we soak in every moment.  And I give thanks.  Thank you for parents who passionately love you and love each other.   Thank you for every moment, a gift.

    My son, Alex, beside me.  He leans on my shoulder and grabs my hand.  His love, always so passionate.  This young man, who has endured dark days, but is walking out on the other side.  One for whom I prayed from the time he was in my womb.  One we thought we had lost, but God saved even before he was born.  We go to church together, him eager for us to be with him.  And I give thanks.  Thank you for answered prayers.  Thank you for this one who sees life differently and has taught me things I would never know without him.  

    And as the morning lightens, I see the beautiful snow.  God  covering his earth with pure whiteness.  Reminds me of his love.  It covers me.  It is beautiful.  It is pure.    

His presence.  His warmth.  It surrounds me blanketing me in love.

And I give thanks.