426) the spontaneous invitation for "coffee" with a friend
427) the blessing of good conversation
428) the pleasure of making a long-awaited purchase
429) the surprise of the clean, dusted, clutter-free entry-way
430) the lovely swirl of white flurries
431) the clothing purchases made
432) the opportunity to help friends
433) the emerald green winter coat
434) the freckles scattered across my son's nose and cheeks
435) the salty popcorn treat shared with family
436) the colorful abstract art at the coffee shoppe
437) the refreshment of cool, clean water
438) the excitement of making Valentines
439) the big, warm blue blanket, perfect for couch-cuddling
440) the dog's perked dachshund ears
441) the sound of the wind whipping past the house
442) the full, stocked refrigerator
443) the willingness of my husband to watch movies I enjoy
444) the update from an old acquaintance and family
445) the opportunity to reach out in encouragement and prayer
446) the desire of all my children to offer thanks for their meals
447) the minty freshness of toothpaste
448) the creamy ivy vines climbing the height of my dining room curtains
449) the addition of an exciting, new book for my to-read stack
450) the happy, contented puppy curled up in a furry, black ball
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Day 17-Perseverance
I distinctly remember the day I came home from high school and determined that I was going to West Point. I knew it would be an arduous and difficult path, requiring a great deal of hard work. The first step, aside from all the paperwork, academic requirements, exams and tests, was simple. Get into better shape. Sharpen my physical abilities. Increase my stamina. The best way to begin? Run.
So, I did. Every day.
I was never a natural runner. It was always difficult. And if I improved, I adjusted my goal. Run farther. Run faster. Run longer. It was never easy. Anyone who runs or has run should understand. The better you become, the more you push yourself. A race is as much about perseverance as it is about ability. It begins with a burst of energy, finding your stride, settling into a pace. But the middle can get rough. The middle is about finding the desire to continue putting one foot in front of the other. Staying on course. Persevering all the way until the end.
Maybe it's natural for some, but every run was work for me. The race to which Paul refers doesn't come naturally for me either. I woke this morning with no desire to make a "list," to offer thanks today. I just didn't want to do it. In the beginning this was easy. The first week the thanks-offerings flooded from my mouth and poured from my nimble and ready fingers. The middle, the middle is getting hard. It's not yet natural. Will it ever be? Maybe not. What then? Give up? The goal is to pursue thankfulness...so that God may be glorified and that I may become more Christ-like. Giving up is not an option.
And so I am reminded of Paul's words in Hebrews 12:1-3, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning it's shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
When I consider what Jesus has done for me, how can I grow weary and lost heart? How can I not offer thanks?
401) the circus
402) the blessing of loving, adult siblings
403) the sound of my daughter singing Winnie the Pooh
404) the blessing of friends nearby for play-dates
405) the functional van heater on a cold, frosty day
406) the availability of quality dental care
407) the accessibility of information
408) the happy exchange of smiles
409) the salvaged tree house
410) the book, once lost, now found
411) the bubbly baby babbles
412) the baby bouncing
413) the sweet baby hiccups
414) the provision of adequate clothing
415) the flock of birds flying in graceful unison through the sky
416) the warm, red-plaid flannel sheets
417) the upside-down sunglasses on my daughter's smiling face
418) the tiny tufts of pigtails on her head
419) the organizational skills of my son
420) the invention of Play-Doh
421) the gift my husband has for explaining scientific phenomena
422) the hugs from my oldest son, who is almost up to my chin
423) the spices that season our food
424) the laughter from my children as they chase one another around the house
425) the voice of my husband, singing hymns to our children
So, I did. Every day.
I was never a natural runner. It was always difficult. And if I improved, I adjusted my goal. Run farther. Run faster. Run longer. It was never easy. Anyone who runs or has run should understand. The better you become, the more you push yourself. A race is as much about perseverance as it is about ability. It begins with a burst of energy, finding your stride, settling into a pace. But the middle can get rough. The middle is about finding the desire to continue putting one foot in front of the other. Staying on course. Persevering all the way until the end.
Maybe it's natural for some, but every run was work for me. The race to which Paul refers doesn't come naturally for me either. I woke this morning with no desire to make a "list," to offer thanks today. I just didn't want to do it. In the beginning this was easy. The first week the thanks-offerings flooded from my mouth and poured from my nimble and ready fingers. The middle, the middle is getting hard. It's not yet natural. Will it ever be? Maybe not. What then? Give up? The goal is to pursue thankfulness...so that God may be glorified and that I may become more Christ-like. Giving up is not an option.
And so I am reminded of Paul's words in Hebrews 12:1-3, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning it's shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."
When I consider what Jesus has done for me, how can I grow weary and lost heart? How can I not offer thanks?
401) the circus
402) the blessing of loving, adult siblings
403) the sound of my daughter singing Winnie the Pooh
404) the blessing of friends nearby for play-dates
405) the functional van heater on a cold, frosty day
406) the availability of quality dental care
407) the accessibility of information
408) the happy exchange of smiles
409) the salvaged tree house
410) the book, once lost, now found
411) the bubbly baby babbles
412) the baby bouncing
413) the sweet baby hiccups
414) the provision of adequate clothing
415) the flock of birds flying in graceful unison through the sky
416) the warm, red-plaid flannel sheets
417) the upside-down sunglasses on my daughter's smiling face
418) the tiny tufts of pigtails on her head
419) the organizational skills of my son
420) the invention of Play-Doh
421) the gift my husband has for explaining scientific phenomena
422) the hugs from my oldest son, who is almost up to my chin
423) the spices that season our food
424) the laughter from my children as they chase one another around the house
425) the voice of my husband, singing hymns to our children
Day 16-One Nation Under God
In light of this year's upcoming election, politics is often at the forefront of news and discussions. It's common for these discussions over the state of our country to become heated. Everyone has an opinion regarding the best course and which candidate is best equipped to lead us on that path. Everyone is concerned about the future, fiscal and moral accountability, the economy, social responsibility versus limited government. There is an extensive and often controversial list.
I studied politics in college, even minored in the subject. Over the years I prided myself on being well informed, introducing my husband to the importance of political awareness and involvement. I also tended to worry about it frequently. Then I reached a point where I realized my worry was an affront to God, who says in Hebrews 13: 1, "for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."
Paul made that statement during a time in which the Jews lived under the authority of Rome. They were governed by non-Christians and probably also persecuted for their beliefs. My Bible's commentary on this verse says "even the possibility of a persecuting state did not shake Paul's conviction that civil government is ordained by God."
How then should I respond to my government, once a nation that claimed to be under God and yet which now denies and defies Him, implicitly and explicitly, in turn?
Submit to the authority, then participate in every manner provided by the governing Constitution to make my views and preferences known. But, do not worry. Be diligent...and then trust. In Matthews 6 Jesus says, "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or stow away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?...Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself."
God is not unaware of our current plight. He is not surprised by anything that we face. Therefore, should I not trust in His ability to provide exactly what is needed, according to His will, in all situations?
Where freedoms and rights and livelihoods are at stake, passionate discourse is important. I have no less passion or concern for these issues than I once did, but I choose not to be angry or to allow anxiety to creep into my heart regarding the future. Regardless of the election results and the implications it may have, good or bad, the future is in the Lord's hands, and I am thankful for it! The fact that our nation may no longer acknowledge God's authority does not in any way diminish the fact that He IS still on the throne, and every power, ruler and authority exists under His sovereignty.
376) the smell of my husband's cologne lingering in the house
377) the smiling little girl playing with her baby doll
378) the raspberry kisses on my baby's belly
379) the discernment to select a reliable, new dentist
380) the contented and cooperative play of my children
381) the scent of my Home Sweet Home Yankee candle
382) the contrast of cool cream cheese on a warm, toasted bagel
383) the freedom to participate in the political process
384) the tart, red cranberry
385) the daily prayers of faithful around the world, offered on behalf of our leaders
386) the boxes of shoes stored away for future use
387) the freedom to openly worship and attend church
388) the freedom to educate my children as I choose
389) the existence of excellent Christian schools
390) the ability to be a stay-at-home Mom
391) the spectacular rock wall on the side of the mountain
392) the sound of my daughter singing nursery rhymes
393) the excellent writings of J.R.R. Tolkein
394) the blessing of abundant leftovers
395) the crunchy almond
396) the tender, buttery cashew nut
397) the children eating pickles on forks
398) the sound of my children singing the alphabet
399) the piggy bank payout, teaching our children fiscal responsibility
400) the review of our upcoming budget
I studied politics in college, even minored in the subject. Over the years I prided myself on being well informed, introducing my husband to the importance of political awareness and involvement. I also tended to worry about it frequently. Then I reached a point where I realized my worry was an affront to God, who says in Hebrews 13: 1, "for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God."
Paul made that statement during a time in which the Jews lived under the authority of Rome. They were governed by non-Christians and probably also persecuted for their beliefs. My Bible's commentary on this verse says "even the possibility of a persecuting state did not shake Paul's conviction that civil government is ordained by God."
How then should I respond to my government, once a nation that claimed to be under God and yet which now denies and defies Him, implicitly and explicitly, in turn?
Submit to the authority, then participate in every manner provided by the governing Constitution to make my views and preferences known. But, do not worry. Be diligent...and then trust. In Matthews 6 Jesus says, "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or stow away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?...Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself."
God is not unaware of our current plight. He is not surprised by anything that we face. Therefore, should I not trust in His ability to provide exactly what is needed, according to His will, in all situations?
Where freedoms and rights and livelihoods are at stake, passionate discourse is important. I have no less passion or concern for these issues than I once did, but I choose not to be angry or to allow anxiety to creep into my heart regarding the future. Regardless of the election results and the implications it may have, good or bad, the future is in the Lord's hands, and I am thankful for it! The fact that our nation may no longer acknowledge God's authority does not in any way diminish the fact that He IS still on the throne, and every power, ruler and authority exists under His sovereignty.
376) the smell of my husband's cologne lingering in the house
377) the smiling little girl playing with her baby doll
378) the raspberry kisses on my baby's belly
379) the discernment to select a reliable, new dentist
380) the contented and cooperative play of my children
381) the scent of my Home Sweet Home Yankee candle
382) the contrast of cool cream cheese on a warm, toasted bagel
383) the freedom to participate in the political process
384) the tart, red cranberry
385) the daily prayers of faithful around the world, offered on behalf of our leaders
386) the boxes of shoes stored away for future use
387) the freedom to openly worship and attend church
388) the freedom to educate my children as I choose
389) the existence of excellent Christian schools
390) the ability to be a stay-at-home Mom
391) the spectacular rock wall on the side of the mountain
392) the sound of my daughter singing nursery rhymes
393) the excellent writings of J.R.R. Tolkein
394) the blessing of abundant leftovers
395) the crunchy almond
396) the tender, buttery cashew nut
397) the children eating pickles on forks
398) the sound of my children singing the alphabet
399) the piggy bank payout, teaching our children fiscal responsibility
400) the review of our upcoming budget
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Day 15-Psalm 8
Sometimes during the day I feel stalled, wanting to give thanks but struggling for a starting point. During these moments I go to a window and let my eyes wander over world outside.
Romans 1:20 says, "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse." In God's handiwork I not only see intricate and admirable beauty but also reflections of His magnificence. I consider Psalm 8...
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory above the heavens.
From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise
because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings
and crowned him with glory and honor.
You made him ruler over the works of your hands;
you put everything under his feet:
all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field,
the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea,
all that swim in the paths of the seas.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
If the Lord is sovereign over ALL this marvelous creation, for which He deserves the highest praise and thanks, and yet, still cares for me, personally and intimately, such that Psalm 139 says...
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
...then I am not only blessed with myriad visible reminders of His incomparable majesty whenever I look around me, but I also have great confidence in his specific and purposeful care for me.
I admire His creation, awestruck. His goodness is evident everywhere. How could I not see it and give thanks?
351) the large, delicate snowflakes
352) the slow, soft snow-falling, almost lingering in the air
353) the elegant tree branches, frosted white
354) the kissable nose of daughter
355) the little feet standing on mine while she embraces my legs
356) the tree-bark crevices holding pockets of snow
357) the gradual spread of pristine white over grassy green
358) the Veggie-tales stories
359) the glistening water droplets suspended on extended tree limbs
360) the dark green ivy climbing over an aging tree stump
361) the sweet crunch of banana chips
362) the tangy and textured dried apricot
363) the homey warmth of my brown curtains
364) the happiness of wrapping my almost-too-big-to-pick-up three year old in a hug
365) the rest-time on the couch, wrapped in a soft, warm blanket, head on my husband's lap
366) the creamy thyme-cheese sauce poured over angel hair pasta and sauteed vegetables
367) the sound of my sons practicing their spelling words
368) the pink flower in my daughter's hair
369) the dishes being cleaned by my husband
370) the rosy flush of my baby's cheeks after snuggling close
371) the healthy appetite of my children
372) the bubbles floating about the kitchen, delighting my daughters
373) the joyful moment of dancing with my son
374) the rocking with my baby before bed
375) the reading of the Word to the children
Romans 1:20 says, "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse." In God's handiwork I not only see intricate and admirable beauty but also reflections of His magnificence. I consider Psalm 8...
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory above the heavens.
From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise
because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings
and crowned him with glory and honor.
You made him ruler over the works of your hands;
you put everything under his feet:
all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field,
the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea,
all that swim in the paths of the seas.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
If the Lord is sovereign over ALL this marvelous creation, for which He deserves the highest praise and thanks, and yet, still cares for me, personally and intimately, such that Psalm 139 says...
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
...then I am not only blessed with myriad visible reminders of His incomparable majesty whenever I look around me, but I also have great confidence in his specific and purposeful care for me.
I admire His creation, awestruck. His goodness is evident everywhere. How could I not see it and give thanks?
351) the large, delicate snowflakes
352) the slow, soft snow-falling, almost lingering in the air
353) the elegant tree branches, frosted white
354) the kissable nose of daughter
355) the little feet standing on mine while she embraces my legs
356) the tree-bark crevices holding pockets of snow
357) the gradual spread of pristine white over grassy green
358) the Veggie-tales stories
359) the glistening water droplets suspended on extended tree limbs
360) the dark green ivy climbing over an aging tree stump
361) the sweet crunch of banana chips
362) the tangy and textured dried apricot
363) the homey warmth of my brown curtains
364) the happiness of wrapping my almost-too-big-to-pick-up three year old in a hug
365) the rest-time on the couch, wrapped in a soft, warm blanket, head on my husband's lap
366) the creamy thyme-cheese sauce poured over angel hair pasta and sauteed vegetables
367) the sound of my sons practicing their spelling words
368) the pink flower in my daughter's hair
369) the dishes being cleaned by my husband
370) the rosy flush of my baby's cheeks after snuggling close
371) the healthy appetite of my children
372) the bubbles floating about the kitchen, delighting my daughters
373) the joyful moment of dancing with my son
374) the rocking with my baby before bed
375) the reading of the Word to the children
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Day 14-Perspective
I'm finding that perspective can make all the difference. And things that typically irritate me can hold blessings in disguise. The truth of the old adage "every cloud has a silver lining" is poignant and real.
I once saw blankets and sheets piled over my table in tent-like fashion as additions to the list of things I'd be cleaning up that day. An annoyance and a chore. Now I find I am capable of looking past that to see the happiness on my children's faces as they exercise their creativity and imaginations. I once stood outside thinking only of the negatives, the chill, the difficulty of constantly tracking them with my eyes. Counting one, two, three, four, five. Knowing where they are at all times, safe and secure. Now I am able to see their cold cheeks, pink with exertion and glee. I mark their busy trails all over our yard and thank the Lord for our .625 acres, an expanse we would have been hard pressed to find in our former city.
People ask the question, "is the glass half full or half empty?" to determine your outlook on life...are you an optimist or a pessimist? I like the joke-alternative, the engineer's response, you just need a different glass! How true! God's blessings are everywhere and the glass is ALWAYS full...if you have the right glass.
It's all a matter of perspective, because it's not about being optimistic or pessimistic by nature. It's about being self-centered by nature versus seeking to be Christ-centered through the Spirit. Cultivating a grateful heart means framing every circumstance with the question, "How can I thank God for this?" And even if it's not thanks for the immediate now, we can always offer thanks in the now with hope for the future, for "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28)
326) the much-needed night of better rest
327) the memory foam pillow that supports my head and neck
328) the child's hunt for, and avoidance of, stinkbugs
329) the fine, dark granules of cocoa mix
330) the little arms that give sweet, baby hugs
331) the colors of the spectrum displayed in my children's drawings
332) the steam wafting into my face as I sip from my mug
333) the gray bear with dark magenta bow, first Valentine's gift from my husband, still sitting on our bed
334) the all-too-brief moment when my usually-busy 3 year old sprawled contentedly across my lap
335) the pointy, impish ears of my son, inherited from his Daddy
336) the windowpane shadows in blocks of bright sunlight
337) the joy of singing "This is the Day!" in the morning
338) the sight of my son standing in front of the glowing window making shadows on the floor
339) the way my sleepy baby rubs his eyes with his little fists as he wakes up
340) the reading of "Goodnight Moon"
341) the persistence of my daughter in searching the sky for the moon every time we go outdoors
342) the cardboard and construction paper rocket, thrown into the air to simulate flight
343) the children's excitement when Daddy gets home
344) the children's continued safety and protection from harmful accidents
345) the neck rub that eased some of the ache and tension-pain
346) the water beading on the crisp red-purple grapes
347) the sweet, spicy scent of cinnamon
348) the decadent, authentic Ukrainian chocolate
349) the blessing of praying with fellow believers
350) the handmade metal diffuser that circulates heat throughout the house
I once saw blankets and sheets piled over my table in tent-like fashion as additions to the list of things I'd be cleaning up that day. An annoyance and a chore. Now I find I am capable of looking past that to see the happiness on my children's faces as they exercise their creativity and imaginations. I once stood outside thinking only of the negatives, the chill, the difficulty of constantly tracking them with my eyes. Counting one, two, three, four, five. Knowing where they are at all times, safe and secure. Now I am able to see their cold cheeks, pink with exertion and glee. I mark their busy trails all over our yard and thank the Lord for our .625 acres, an expanse we would have been hard pressed to find in our former city.
People ask the question, "is the glass half full or half empty?" to determine your outlook on life...are you an optimist or a pessimist? I like the joke-alternative, the engineer's response, you just need a different glass! How true! God's blessings are everywhere and the glass is ALWAYS full...if you have the right glass.
It's all a matter of perspective, because it's not about being optimistic or pessimistic by nature. It's about being self-centered by nature versus seeking to be Christ-centered through the Spirit. Cultivating a grateful heart means framing every circumstance with the question, "How can I thank God for this?" And even if it's not thanks for the immediate now, we can always offer thanks in the now with hope for the future, for "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28)
326) the much-needed night of better rest
327) the memory foam pillow that supports my head and neck
328) the child's hunt for, and avoidance of, stinkbugs
329) the fine, dark granules of cocoa mix
330) the little arms that give sweet, baby hugs
331) the colors of the spectrum displayed in my children's drawings
332) the steam wafting into my face as I sip from my mug
333) the gray bear with dark magenta bow, first Valentine's gift from my husband, still sitting on our bed
334) the all-too-brief moment when my usually-busy 3 year old sprawled contentedly across my lap
335) the pointy, impish ears of my son, inherited from his Daddy
336) the windowpane shadows in blocks of bright sunlight
337) the joy of singing "This is the Day!" in the morning
338) the sight of my son standing in front of the glowing window making shadows on the floor
339) the way my sleepy baby rubs his eyes with his little fists as he wakes up
340) the reading of "Goodnight Moon"
341) the persistence of my daughter in searching the sky for the moon every time we go outdoors
342) the cardboard and construction paper rocket, thrown into the air to simulate flight
343) the children's excitement when Daddy gets home
344) the children's continued safety and protection from harmful accidents
345) the neck rub that eased some of the ache and tension-pain
346) the water beading on the crisp red-purple grapes
347) the sweet, spicy scent of cinnamon
348) the decadent, authentic Ukrainian chocolate
349) the blessing of praying with fellow believers
350) the handmade metal diffuser that circulates heat throughout the house
Friday, January 27, 2012
Day 13-Slipping
My daughter sits on the couch screaming through a tantrum, and my head pounds. I cannot think straight, and I look around struggling. God, please help me be thankful today! But, I'm not seeing it. I didn't see it all weekend.
We woke up Saturday morning in my parent's house and, from the early rising-hour, we were on the go. It was raining and gray, and we were out the door for a family breakfast. I tried to maintain the fledgling habit of thanks-giving, but it so easily slipped away with the morning. It was a good day, a good weekend, with LOTS of things to be thankful for. I just wasn't intentional about noting any of it.
I can see why people say that forming a new habit takes consistency. Any break in that routine can so easily throw you off, and all your resolve slips away. I am frustrated with myself. Should it be so easy to overlook God's goodness? Can I still call this "Day 13" when, technically, it isn't? It is the thirteenth day of actual list-making but not the thirteenth consecutive day since I started. Oh, that grates on me.
I even find myself a little irritated with the dog, again, as I spy her curled up in one of the kid's bean bag chairs. My head is still pounding, and my daughter is still fussing, but there's no real reason for the irritation. I am mindful of Paul's words in Romans 7:18, "I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out."
However, he continues in chapter 8 verse 26, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." What comfort! God, help me to persevere today. Help me to slowly press on. Let the peace and contentment that come through thankfulness not slip away.
I close my eyes and think, hard. One at a time. One methodical offering of thanks at a time, and praying the Lord will bless it...
301) the orange haze in the black night sky as lights play games in the atmosphere
302) the safe return home
303) the crunch of frosty grass under my feet
304) the compassionate help of another mother
305) the sniffling of a reluctantly calming child
306) the open-mouthed wonder of a child at an unexpected pleasure
307) the fog hovering about the trees
308) the joy of singing loudly
309) the bright green roof on the old barn shed
310) the news of a possible adoption that would be a blessing to many
309) the little brow creased in thought
310) the tree shadows spreading across the lawn
311) the peaceful rest of a weary child
312) the fan blowing the sting of onion from my nose and eyes
313) the aroma of simmering savory spices
314) the box of recipes thoughtfully compiled by my sister
315) the seeds that will produce a bountiful garden
316) the softening pinkish hue of fluffy cloud
317) the extra humidifier, given by a friend
318) the medicine that is both gentle enough and strong enough for my baby
319) the coat that keeps me warm on cold, wintry days
320) the peppermint in my daughter's handmade five-senses book
321) the willingness of a brother to help his little sister
322) the sight of my husband and baby making faces at each other
323) the piggyback ride for my son
324) the joy of singing "You Are My Sunshine" to my little ones
325) the Date Night planned by my husband
We woke up Saturday morning in my parent's house and, from the early rising-hour, we were on the go. It was raining and gray, and we were out the door for a family breakfast. I tried to maintain the fledgling habit of thanks-giving, but it so easily slipped away with the morning. It was a good day, a good weekend, with LOTS of things to be thankful for. I just wasn't intentional about noting any of it.
I can see why people say that forming a new habit takes consistency. Any break in that routine can so easily throw you off, and all your resolve slips away. I am frustrated with myself. Should it be so easy to overlook God's goodness? Can I still call this "Day 13" when, technically, it isn't? It is the thirteenth day of actual list-making but not the thirteenth consecutive day since I started. Oh, that grates on me.
I even find myself a little irritated with the dog, again, as I spy her curled up in one of the kid's bean bag chairs. My head is still pounding, and my daughter is still fussing, but there's no real reason for the irritation. I am mindful of Paul's words in Romans 7:18, "I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out."
However, he continues in chapter 8 verse 26, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." What comfort! God, help me to persevere today. Help me to slowly press on. Let the peace and contentment that come through thankfulness not slip away.
I close my eyes and think, hard. One at a time. One methodical offering of thanks at a time, and praying the Lord will bless it...
301) the orange haze in the black night sky as lights play games in the atmosphere
302) the safe return home
303) the crunch of frosty grass under my feet
304) the compassionate help of another mother
305) the sniffling of a reluctantly calming child
306) the open-mouthed wonder of a child at an unexpected pleasure
307) the fog hovering about the trees
308) the joy of singing loudly
309) the bright green roof on the old barn shed
310) the news of a possible adoption that would be a blessing to many
309) the little brow creased in thought
310) the tree shadows spreading across the lawn
311) the peaceful rest of a weary child
312) the fan blowing the sting of onion from my nose and eyes
313) the aroma of simmering savory spices
314) the box of recipes thoughtfully compiled by my sister
315) the seeds that will produce a bountiful garden
316) the softening pinkish hue of fluffy cloud
317) the extra humidifier, given by a friend
318) the medicine that is both gentle enough and strong enough for my baby
319) the coat that keeps me warm on cold, wintry days
320) the peppermint in my daughter's handmade five-senses book
321) the willingness of a brother to help his little sister
322) the sight of my husband and baby making faces at each other
323) the piggyback ride for my son
324) the joy of singing "You Are My Sunshine" to my little ones
325) the Date Night planned by my husband
Day 12-Book Snob
I do not have the luxury of being particular about many things. But, I am particular about books. They sit on my bookshelf just so, separated into categories obvious only to me. When I read one, I am careful not to bend the spine or the pages too much. I like to maintain the integrity of the book itself as long as possible. I handle them carefully, because I am re-reader. I will read those I love over and over, and the better preserved through each reading, the longer a book is likely to last. This is important to me, because I have no intention of going over to the electronic dark side. I know it appeals to some, but I love holding a book in my hands. Turning the pages one by one Visually marking my progress through the story. Tangibly anticipating the climax and resolution!
I am also particular about the type of book I read. Some books, for one reason or another, just do not appeal to me. I cannot always put my finger on the why. Sometimes, just an impression or topic. I prefer books I consider more artistic in literary form. Stylistically unique or gripping. An interesting point of view. Old classics or destined to be. That does not mean I am unable to enjoy or appreciate other types, just that I don't gravitate to them. For this reason, I think my family secretly, or not-so-secretly, considers me a "book snob."
I don't mean to be snobbish about my literary preferences but, since I have limited time to read, I usually have to make my choices carefully. There isn't much extra reading time to expand my horizons. However, on occasion, I have been prodded into reading a book that I originally avoided and been pleasantly surprised by how much I actually enjoyed it!
For a long time I refused to jump on the Harry Potter-bandwagon. I "snobbishly" felt anything that popular probably wasn't the type of novel I would enjoy. However, when I finally picked it up, I was surprised to discover it had so much more depth and wit and creativity than I expected! I have reread them several times, including reading them aloud to my husband and children. I have been a devoted fan since. (I also became a fan of the Twilight series in the same way. And, in the same way, many are either vehemently against them or obsessively for them! I won't digress into a full-length blog on why I enjoy them so much but, suffice it to say, I enjoy that they draw on classic themes and creatively weave those themes through-out a vividly-imagined and compelling fantasy.)
The point is, I will sheepishly admit that I am often a "book snob," but I am usually thankful for the times when I have been pushed out of my comfort zone, prompted to try new things or pressed on with a book I was unsure about. For this reason, I am thankful to be part of a Book Club. Selection rotates through the members, so I am always exposed to the interests and preferences of others. As someone who easily becomes entrenched in my own little world, this is a good thing. If not for this, I would not have picked up "One Thousand Gifts." It wasn't a book I would have chosen for myself...but I am thankful someone else chose it for me.
I'm thankful for good books and thankful that God doesn't leave me entrenched in my own little world either; He continually pursues me every day, because I am His, and He knows me better than I know myself.
276) the spot on my husband's chest where I fit perfectly
277) the tiny cleft in my baby's chin
278) the delicate crystals frosting over glass
279) the ability to easily visit family
280) the anticipation of a surprise
281) the complimentary flavors of peppermint and chocolate
282) the transformation of toddler-speak into sentences
283) the pleasure of a good book
284) the pirate ship on the playground
285) the beautiful and stately church spires rising above the tree-line
286) the naturally-sweet, juicy peach
287) the invention of peanut butter
288) the rolling hills of the southern Virginia valley
289) the lack of traffic en route to Charlotte
290) the sun setting into the waters of Lake Norman
291) the waiting meal for our famished family
292) the children's enthusiastic searching of the night sky for incoming and departing airplanes
293) the welcoming city lights
294) the glass of sweet, strawberry wine
295) the full, happy baby playing with his toes for Grandma
296) the baby, held high in Papa's arms, laughing happily
297) the safe travels
298) the inspiring songs of Christian musicians
299) the warm scent of the burning Balsam and Cedar Yankee Candle
300) the corrective lenses that adjust my vision and prevent headaches
I am also particular about the type of book I read. Some books, for one reason or another, just do not appeal to me. I cannot always put my finger on the why. Sometimes, just an impression or topic. I prefer books I consider more artistic in literary form. Stylistically unique or gripping. An interesting point of view. Old classics or destined to be. That does not mean I am unable to enjoy or appreciate other types, just that I don't gravitate to them. For this reason, I think my family secretly, or not-so-secretly, considers me a "book snob."
I don't mean to be snobbish about my literary preferences but, since I have limited time to read, I usually have to make my choices carefully. There isn't much extra reading time to expand my horizons. However, on occasion, I have been prodded into reading a book that I originally avoided and been pleasantly surprised by how much I actually enjoyed it!
For a long time I refused to jump on the Harry Potter-bandwagon. I "snobbishly" felt anything that popular probably wasn't the type of novel I would enjoy. However, when I finally picked it up, I was surprised to discover it had so much more depth and wit and creativity than I expected! I have reread them several times, including reading them aloud to my husband and children. I have been a devoted fan since. (I also became a fan of the Twilight series in the same way. And, in the same way, many are either vehemently against them or obsessively for them! I won't digress into a full-length blog on why I enjoy them so much but, suffice it to say, I enjoy that they draw on classic themes and creatively weave those themes through-out a vividly-imagined and compelling fantasy.)
The point is, I will sheepishly admit that I am often a "book snob," but I am usually thankful for the times when I have been pushed out of my comfort zone, prompted to try new things or pressed on with a book I was unsure about. For this reason, I am thankful to be part of a Book Club. Selection rotates through the members, so I am always exposed to the interests and preferences of others. As someone who easily becomes entrenched in my own little world, this is a good thing. If not for this, I would not have picked up "One Thousand Gifts." It wasn't a book I would have chosen for myself...but I am thankful someone else chose it for me.
I'm thankful for good books and thankful that God doesn't leave me entrenched in my own little world either; He continually pursues me every day, because I am His, and He knows me better than I know myself.
276) the spot on my husband's chest where I fit perfectly
277) the tiny cleft in my baby's chin
278) the delicate crystals frosting over glass
279) the ability to easily visit family
280) the anticipation of a surprise
281) the complimentary flavors of peppermint and chocolate
282) the transformation of toddler-speak into sentences
283) the pleasure of a good book
284) the pirate ship on the playground
285) the beautiful and stately church spires rising above the tree-line
286) the naturally-sweet, juicy peach
287) the invention of peanut butter
288) the rolling hills of the southern Virginia valley
289) the lack of traffic en route to Charlotte
290) the sun setting into the waters of Lake Norman
291) the waiting meal for our famished family
292) the children's enthusiastic searching of the night sky for incoming and departing airplanes
293) the welcoming city lights
294) the glass of sweet, strawberry wine
295) the full, happy baby playing with his toes for Grandma
296) the baby, held high in Papa's arms, laughing happily
297) the safe travels
298) the inspiring songs of Christian musicians
299) the warm scent of the burning Balsam and Cedar Yankee Candle
300) the corrective lenses that adjust my vision and prevent headaches
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