Grateful

The turkey is thawing in the refrigerator.  The bread is drying and soon will become stuffing.  The groceries are purchased.  The plans are made, just waiting, ready for the big day.  I guess, that I am also waiting for the big day too, because here I sit in front of a bright screen, in the wee hours of the early morning, unable to sleep.

My restlessness has caused me to reflect on a Bing Crosby song, "Count Your Blessings, Instead of Counting Sheep".

When I'm worried and I can't sleep

I count my blessings instead of sheep

And I fall asleep counting my blessings

When my bankroll is getting small

I think of when I had none at all

And I fall asleep counting my blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads

And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds

If you're worried and you can't sleep

Just count your blessings instead of sheep

And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings.

So, here it goes:

I am grateful for warm, soft sand that squishes between toes creating a feeling that life is oh so good.

I am grateful for sun rises of pinks and orange with rays of sunlight creeping over the mountains with promises and hope for a beautiful day.

I am grateful for artichokes, melted butter, and squeezed lemon that tantalizes the taste buds.

I am grateful for the magical sounds of children's laughter while running through sprinklers, twirling sparklers, and chasing butterflies.

I am grateful for vine-ripened tomatoes that come straight out of the garden.  Something that has been a rare occurrence since my move to Arizona.  Oh how I miss you!

I am grateful for pants that are long enough to cover my very long legs.

I am grateful for the sound of leaves crunching on the ground, the brisk air, and the smell of fall.

I am grateful for walks along the river where my mind can work and resolve both small and big problems.

I am grateful for soft, baby's skin that smells of baby lotion and everything that is good in the world.

I am grateful for opportunities of painting bedrooms, shopping for winter formal dresses, helping with homework, driving to swim and soccer practices, cheering on sidelines to two, beautiful girls.

I am grateful for being able to lie down each night in the warm, safe and comforting arms of my husband.

I am grateful to a loving, Heavenly Father, who has provided all of the above, plus so much more, for me.

Happy Thanksgiving!