Thankful . . .

Words.  We use them everyday.

We can use them to build someone up or we can use them to tear someone down.

Hopefully, we are using them to build someone up; and that someone doesn't have to be somebody else.

It can be ourselves.  Just a thought for today.

I've been reflecting on several words lately.

Blessed.  Blessings.  Thank you.  Thankful.  Thankfully.  Thankfulness.  Thanksgiving.  Beholden.  Content.  Contented.  Contentment.  Much obliged.  Pleased.  Pleasing.  Pleasantly surprised.  Grateful.  Gratefulness.  Gratitude.  Give Thanks.  Giving Thanks.  Appreciate.  Appreciation.  Appreciativeness.

Over at Ann Voskamp's blog, a holy experience, ladies--and gentlemen--all across the bloggy world, have been participating in something extraordinary.

We've been sharing our words of gratitude.

All of us have been taking notice, counting blessings and compiling a list of one thousand gifts--even in the hard times.

In the mundane tasks of day to day living; and in the good, bad, ordinary and exceptional moments we live.

I'm finding out that, the real stuff of life happens in the words of gratitude.

So I'm settling in and searching for God's blessings--hidden or apparent--in every gritty detail of my life.

When I spend my time being thankful, I feel my attitude change.  My heart expands and the want for and need of gratitude, becomes like the air I breath.

Everyday. . .

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Come along with me, won't you, as I continue counting to 1,000 gifts.

Today's leg of the journey covers No.(s) #0032 - #0042 . . .

I'M THANKFUL . . .

#0032.  For my NIV Bible.  It's tattered pages, its beautiful burgundy leather cover engraved with my maiden name in gold and the fraying satin ribbon marking my spot.  Its wrinkled and wispy pages are remarkably strong and crammed full of powerful words.  Words like those written in red.  The words of my Savior, Jesus.  My Bible was given to me over 20 years ago, by a dear friend at our graduation.  It is the gift that 'truly' keeps giving and giving and giving.

#0033.  For my morning coffee, my Half & Half Mini Moos and my Sweetleaf sugar free flavorings.  It's a wonderful way to start the day.

#0034 - 0035.  For the hardboiled eggs I made.  Even though peeling them has a tendency to make me lose my composure.  Especially, TODAY!  Makes me want to slap a chicken. . . but I'm thankful for that chicken.

#0036.  For Find-A-Word puzzles that occupy and challenge my brain, while waiting to pick the kids up from school . . . and work as a notebook for thoughts that pop into my head.

#0037 - 0040.  For the parking spot near the school and the fact that I did NOT have to parallel park to get into it.  For the radio in my van.  I love music so much and it makes me happy.  It's like a sweet surprise every time I turn it on.  You never know what delightful, lovely tune is going to be on next.  Which in turn makes me thankful for my ears, that I can hear the beautiful music.

#0041.  For my son eagerly planning to play the Trombone when he starts 7th grade, next year.  I love to see him so excited and I hope he enjoys the joy of making music.


#0042.  For a son on crutches, with a broken ankle, who gets up and hobbles over to the door to check on his little brother riding his scooter out front.  Precious brotherly love and concern, deeply embedded in the kind heart of my oldest son.