Gratitude

As I look forward to my first Thanksgiving as Mrs. Brooke Howell, Peter's lucky wife, I realize I have so much to be thankful for. I have been crying at the drop of a hat lately - all because of wonderful things. There seems to be so much 'good' around me. I am not sure if it is an attitude we take that helps us see blessings and joy instead of pain or negativity - OR if things are really just that wonderful in our lives. Either way - I am filled with gratitude, not just because it is Thanksgiving, but because I have so much to be thankful for.

Some of the things that have humbled me lately or made me cry tears of joy: fluffy white snow, changing of the seasons, employment, quality time with a wonderful man,
having a best friend, healthy babies, conversation over good wine, reunions with friends who you miss, seeing my family do well, seeing friends welcome babies into the world, good parents, dog kisses, playful moments, hot showers, trips home for Christmas, the Village that raised me, amazing in-laws, warm coats and hats, being healthy, keeping in touch, new opportunities, dreams about the future, being in a place where we can choose our destiny, a warm home and bed, coming home to smiles, coming home to barking dogs, planning trips, missing my family, loving that I have amazing family to miss...

I could go on and on... But I will not. Happy thanksgiving! For those who are not all that religious, it doesn't matter...This Psalm is so true in my life right now...

Psalms 100:

"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the lands!
Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!

Know the Lord is God!
It is he that made us and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!

Give thanks to him, bless his name!

For the Lord is good:
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.