Feeling thankful?

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Have you thought about what you're thankful for lately? If you have been going through a rough patch recently, then first off, I'm sorry and I hope that it subsides soon; if it's hard for you to think of positive things right now because you are going through trials, then take the question "What am I thankful for?" and replace it with, "What can't I do without?" Maybe it will help to put things into perspective that way.

I woke up today thinking about so many things I just couldn't do without. I'll list them for you :)

I'm thankful for:

• The fact that I've woken up every day for the past 27 years and 9 months.  
• The wonderful family my Mother (and God of course) made for me. 
• My husband who pledges his love for me in more ways than I ever knew a man could.
• Every single one of my friendships that brings a different level of 'Special' to my life.  
• Our troops that put their lives on the line and sacrifice precious time with their families to protect us, our country and our freedoms. 
• The outlook on life that I would have never had, had I not been in the military and gathered new views/perspectives and appreciations that mean the world to me, because they've shaped me into someone I'm proud of. 
• A paycheck. 
• My health.
• My father-in-law who has given Mikey and I so much since we arrived in New Jersey. He's helped us out more than he needed to. I've never known anyone more giving than he. 
• Poetry, literature, music, film, and other texts that I seem to run into more and more (thanks to going back to school!) that inspire me in various ways. 
• Good food, desserts and everything else that makes me smile. :)

It's funny how this little task of making my list really filled me with such great emotions as I thought of every line. It's even crazier to think of how many people and things that one person could love in one lifetime. :)

Here's an idea, if you want to participate...I think it would be a neat thing to write one of these lists out every year (date them), keep them somewhere safe where you or someone else won't accidentally regard them as trash, and go back to your lists to see if anything's changed, been added on, etc. I can't believe I never thought to do that myself, but I'm going to start with this year and possibly display them in their own photo-like album. It'd be so amusing to look at them when my hair has gone completely grey. 

I hope today brought you all a smile worth saving. 
*You don't have to wait until this time of year to start feeling thankful - it's important to reflect on your treasures as often as possible. Keep reminding yourself just how lucky you are; it feels nice. :) 

*hugs all around*

Roni

P.s. I totally forgot to credit my pal, Jen, for giving me the idea to do this. I was inspired by her adorable status updates since the 1st of November: she's written one thing a day that she's thankful for. I thought it was a wonderful idea.