Thankful Thursday, Week 2

I’ve been a bit distracted this week, but here I am with Thankful Thursday just at the tail end of the day. Here’s Week 1, if you missed it. And don’t forget to check out Cindy’s Gratitude Project. It (and she) is a blessing.

(Sorry, no time to dig up corresponding pictures this time.)

Day 5: The dogs
It’s amazing to me how much animals, who cannot speak in human words, can speak to my heart. I have loved animals since I was a little girl, and am thankful for these two precious puppies in my life and heart. These two canines, with their unique personalities, are a constant source of joy, laughter, and unconditional love. I love their crazy antics, soft licks, sweet cuddles, and tail-wagging enthusiasm. I can’t get enough of their soft fur and intelligent, deep brown eyes. But most of all, I never tire of their excited welcome when I return home.

Day 6: Our house
Four walls and a roof. A place to come home to. A place to call my own. I don’t want to take these things for granted, yet so often I’m guilty of that very thing. I love our little brick house. Sure, some days I mutter under my breath at the awkward kitchen and lack of [automatic] dishwasher or some other such thing, but so many people hardly have more than a piece of tarp over their heads or dirt beneath their feet. Not only do I have a solid structure around me, but I get to paint and decorate because it’s completely mine. (Okay, so technically we share it with the bank, but we’re not in danger of foreclosure. Another blessing!)

Day 7: Scripture
Scripture is another thing it’s easy to overlook as normal. I mean, how many Bibles do you have at your house? I know we have a surplus. It’s such a gift to be able to read God’s words at any time in our own language. And to go to church every Sunday (without fear or suspicion) to hear teaching from scripture. But do I really cherish this gift? I take it for granted all the time, and I’m working to change that.

Day 8: Books
Written words are fabulous. All it takes to be transported to another time or place (or both) or to benefit from a new idea is opening the cover of a book and diving in. My life is richer for the books I’ve experienced, and I am sad for those who cannot or choose not to read. They don’t know what they’re missing.

Day 9: A God who loves me and knows what’s best for me
I suppose I could have just said God’s sovereignty, but sometimes the big theological words get in the way of their meaning. I don’t pretend to understand God’s plan, but I’m glad He’s got one, and I’m thankful His ways are best (even when it hurts).

Day 10: Changing seasons
There’s always been something beautiful to me about the changing of the seasons. I love the way they mimic the seasons of life, and how they teach us to value the differences and benefits of each season. The coming of spring and its revelry is all the more joyful after a long winter.

Day 11: Our veterans
Today is Veterans Day. It’s always a more poignant observance when we, as a country, are in the midst of active war. Thanks to the many brave men and women who face the perils of battle head on every day. And to those they leave behind. Thanks to those who have passed on, fighting bravely for freedom. My grandpa didn’t talk much about serving in WWII, but I know he served his country with pride. He, along with so many others, was a part of the Greatest Generation. Thank you all for your service.

What are YOU thankful for this week?