Attitude of Gratitude

I'm thankful. Abundantly thankful. But those two little words just don't seem to measure my happiness and genuine gratitude for the life which God has blessed me with. And so allow me a few minutes to express my attitude of gratitude on this rainy pre-Thanksgiving day.

In no particular order....

I am grateful for a warm, beautiful home. A house built just for our little family. A home that keeps us warm and dry, provides comfort and security.

I am grateful for stain-treaters that get the various toddler messes out of Elliana's clothes, usually after only one wash cycle.

I am grateful for 3 sets of parents who continue to teach us lessons on love, laughter and family. Each parent is a unique and perfect part of who we have become.

I am grateful for photographs. Constant memories of our life together. Constant reminders of how quickly life changes and to never take a moment for granted.

I am grateful for an abundance of food to eat. Even if we typically eat the same foods consistently (Elliana, more than T.J. & I), I am grateful for the variety of choices we have and the ability to enjoy each food.

I am grateful for my daughter's intelligence. Each day, I marvel at her intelligence and memory. She is literally a human sponge and I LOVE her love for learning.

I am grateful for my husband's commitment to me being a stay-at-home mom. T.J. works so hard to provide for our family, and I appreciate it more than words can ever express.

I am grateful for play-dates. An opportunity for Elliana to play with peers and for Mommy to connect with other Moms and friends. We have built amazing relationships over the past two years and look forward to many more in our future.

I am grateful for coupons. Coupons that allow us to "splurge" without blowing the budget. Milkshakes, clothes, dinner, groceries...I use coupons for practically everything and am grateful for those special treats.

I am grateful for love. The love of Jesus, the love of our parents, the love of my husband and daughter. Each different kinds of love and very much appreciated.

And as I continue to type item after item, I realize that I could type all day long. I am thankful for life. And the opportunity to express my gratitude.