Be Thankful

Today was one of those days...frustrating. Kids not wanting to listen, lots of things to accomplish, not accomplishing as much as I wanted. It is really easy to get bogged down when things aren't going the way I planned. (I AM a planner, you know.) I'm sure I didn't handle every situation as gracefully and calmly as I would like. But, instead of focusing on the frustrations of today, I am choosing to be thankful.

Thanksgiving is just one short week away, and while the holiday is set aside for giving thanks, it should not be the only day or time of the year that we reflect on our blessings. I strive to thank God for His blessings each and every day of my life. When I start thinking about my life, my list of blessings could go on forever! And while I may not do everything perfectly and my plans may not always turn out the way I want, everything works together exactly the way God planned.

So, here is my top 10 list of things for which I am thankful:

1. First and foremost, I am thankful for my Savior, Jesus Christ!

2. I am thankful for my wonderful husband, Greg. I cannot imagine doing life without him!

3. I am thankful for my children. Many of you know that Greg and I had 3 1/2 years of fertility issues before becoming pregnant. (Some days, Greg reminds me how I cried for them...especially on days when they are testing my patience!)

4. I am thankful for my health. One of the instructors at the gym says, "Thousands of people WISH they could do what you are doing right now!" So, on the days I really don't want to go work out, I remember that I am blessed to be able to exercise!

5. I am thankful for our families.

6. I am thankful that both Greg and I have careers that we enjoy.

7. I am thankful for our wonderful friends all around the country and the world.

8. I am thankful for our church and the diversity that we find there. I am thankful that our children are surrounded by people from all walks of life who love God.

9. I am thankful for our freedom in this country.

10. I am thankful for every person in my life who has guided, mentored, and taught me what it means to love God and to love people.

Today and every day, I choose to be thankful. It is a conscience effort because it is way too easy to get grumpy and complain about all that is going wrong. So, if you see me in a bad mood, it's okay to gently remind me to give thanks!