Being Thankful

Every year I make a list around Thanksgiving of the things I am thankful for. Somethings are on the list every year, but there are always those new things that get brought to the forefront during the course of the year that need to acknowledged as well. In 2009, I am thankful for:
1) My God and Savior who loved us all enough to enter into a covenant relationship with us. A covenant He will not break.
2) My husband. A man who loves me and our daughter so much. A man who works hard and demonstrates his faith and his work ethic everyday.
3) My child. What a blessing! The last several weeks have more challenging with her than we are accustomed, and yet I am reminded everyday that she is wonderful. That even in the midst of the meltdowns and tears, she is God's precious gift to me.
4) Our families. I am overwhelmed when I think of the blessing we have received through our families. We have terrific parents. We have sisters who are amazing women. We have nieces and nephews who are all so unique and gifted. We have brother-in-laws who are divinely appointed to be a part of our families. We have adopted family members here in Alma who love us and are an important part of our lives - and the life of Jillian.
5) Our friends. We have some dear friends who are encouragers and such great supporters. I don't know what I would do without this fabulous group of people. They help make the hard days better. And the good days greater.
6) Our church. We are seeing action in our church. We are seeing people love one another and draw closer to God. It is a privilege to be a part of all that.
7) Our jobs. I said this last year, and I will say it again: we both like our jobs. I don't like getting up in the morning, but I enjoy being at school (most days). It has not escaped me that there are a lot of people who dread their jobs, their bosses, their co-workers. Absolutely none of that applies to me, and I am very grateful for that.
8) Our health. We continue to be healthy here at the Mills residence.
And now for my fun stuff:
9) Good books. I don't have much time to read, but when I get to a good one, I love it.
10) College football. There is a chance I am the worst mother ever from September to November on Saturdays because I love it! Everyone who knows me well knows that I love it. And I am sad that it is almost over.
11) Sunny weather. After what seemed like weeks without sunshine, I am still relishing in it.
12) TV. I hate to admit it, but I do love television.
13) Clean sheets. I am my Nanna's girl, and you just can't beat getting into a bed with clean sheets on it.
14) Telephones. I like to talk - no surprise there.
15) Christmas music. I am having to stop myself from listening to my Christmas music. But I will start on Friday. No doubt.
16) People magazine! I can't help myself.
17) Funny stories about my nieces and nephews. They crack me up.
18) Chocolate!
19) Diet coke.
20) A good night's sleep. Love it.