Thankfulness

It's that time of year again...everyone is sharing what they have to be thankful for each day leading up to Thanksgiving. I like this tradition, but I have not been participating in the ritual this year. On the surface, I could wallow in self pity and claim "What do I have to be thankful for, holidays this year suck because of what's transpiring in my life." But I WILL NOT be that person. I have so much to be thankful for and I think its been magnified during this time of trial. So here is my not-so-normal "Thankful" list:

I will start with the "generalizations"

1. Most importantly, I am thankful for my relationship with God my Savior. I seriously would not make it out of bed each morning without the strength and guidance that He gives me. He gives me a reason to keep moving forward. I trust Him wholeheartedly and even though I cant see His plan right now, I know that He is working all things together for my good.

2. My family. Even though my family is far away in NC, and I cant run home and cry to them or laugh with them, I am so thankful for their love and support. I know that no matter how far away I am or how long its been since I have seen or talked to them, that if I need them, they will be there.

3. My extended family/in-laws. This transition has been hard on me and my in-laws/extended/married family. Separation/divorce doesn't happen just to the couple. Its affects everyone. I am so thankful that my in-laws are still supportive of me and still want to be part of my life.

4. My friends. Oh my friends are amazing. I will be the first to admit that I pretty much suck at keeping in touch with friends like I should. I get so caught up in my own life that I forget to check on my friends and be there for them. I have been utterly amazed at the outpouring of love and support that I have received from my friends over this past month. I'm not sure how I could ever make it up to you all, but I will try.

5. My puppies. This little furry three-some is my daily strength. They are wonderful companions, protection, snugglers, and entertainers. I wouldn't trade them for the world.

Now for more specific "thankfuls"

1. Cafe Coco talks with Stacey Bailey

2. Hibachi grill night with Sara McAdoo

3. Painting with Debbie Radish and Jane Lovell

4. Soccer with Geddy, Sean, and Mango

5. Greek food dates with Laura, Geddy, Anthony Mills, and Matt

6. Shooting guns with Amanda Weaver and Dad

7. Running the 5K Challenge at TNU with Debbie, Scott and Hailey

8. Dog park dates with Sara and Caroline

9. Book club with my "book club girls"

10. YMCA memberships so I can take kickboxing classes

11. Neighbors like Rustee who take my trash cans back to the house every week while I'm at work, and offer to have coffee and just talk

12. Twilight movie night with Rachel Parker

13. Lunch dates with Pam and Debbie

14. White wine and chick flicks

15. Late night chats via Facebook with Thomas, Brian, and many other friends

16. Late night conversations on the phone with Amanda, Sara, and Caroline

17. Celebrating with friends who are expecting...living vicariously through them :)

18. Waking up and seeing Archie asleep on the pillow next to me

19. Being completely surrounded by puppies in the bed to keep me warm

20. Redecorating the house to fit my "style"

21. Teaching Archie to finally "go to his bed" when its time for me to leave the house!! Victory!

22. Cold nights and warm blankets

23. Anticipation of Black Friday shopping with Kim, Sharon, and Mom

24. Baking pumpkin and banana chocolate chip muffins

25. Relationships with Jason Gillie, and Alan Gillie that span over a decade, and they still treat me like their little sister. 

26. New friendships with people like Stephanie D. from church, and Baja Burrito dates :)

I'm sure this list could go on and on...I will keep adding to it as the days and weeks pass. I am most thankful for all the wonderful, supportive people in my life who love me for me...even through all my flaws. I am thankful for you!!