100 Little Gratitudes

 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. - Colossians 3:15

Thank you.  Two simple words which can have a significant  impact not only on the receiver but on the giver of the words as well.  The one who is thankful is choosing to shift his focus from that which  he does not have or cannot change to what he has, is blessed with, and enjoying.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.- Phillipians 4:6

When I pause to reflect on my present and past blessings from God, the giver of all good gifts (James 1:17), my mind is more clearly focused on that which I should truly petition and request in prayer. I am more apt to see life in the proper perspective.

I was challenged several years ago to write a list of 100 things that I was thankful for.  It was truly a sweet time of reflection to think on at least 100 people, circumstances, and experiences for which I was thankful.  I hope that this simple exercise in gratitude will spur you to do likewise.

Graciousness is caught in addition to being taught.  I realize more and more that my actions speak so much louder than my words.  I want to live out a life that is authentically gracious and obedient to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, so that I am modeling a life that I want my children to pursue.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking time out of your full day to read this blog.

Here is my list in no particular order.

1. for life
2. my husband and best friend, Ron
3. our children
4. my parents
5. my wonderful sister and her husband
6. all of  my in laws
7. my nieces and nephews
8. our family's collective health
9. salvation in Jesus Christ
10. forgiveness
11. the ability to read
12. access to almost any book in the world
13. my Bible
14. a good nights sleep
15. our home
16. two cars (yes, we now are a two car family once again)
17. fresh fruit and vegetables
18. my church
19. friends
20. furniture
21. our ministry together
22. my gym
23. Emily's artwork
24. quiet time in prayer and Bible study
25. throwing the football with Joshua
26. toothpaste and a toothbrush
27. water and warm showers
28. access to good healthcare
29. Target, Walmart, Ross, and Michael's
30. mercy
31. hope
32. a future
33. my grandparents and extended family
34. autumn (my favorite time of year)
35. mentors in the faith
36. a baby boy on the way for friends who have tried for seven years to have a baby
37. hiking
38. kayaking
39. camping
40. mail and packages from Nana...and Amazon
41. God's provision!
42. education and the ability to learn
43. soy vanilla lattes
44. Costco
45. time to spend with those we love
46. freedom
47. missions
48. road trips
49. Jesus' unending pursuit of my heart
50. Jefri and Jasmine (our Compassion children)
51. a camera and photographs of memories
52. a dining room table to eat at with my family and friends
53. a bed
54. clothes and shoes that fit
55. writing opportunities
56. a purpose
57. good music
58. vegan mayonnaise
59. dancing
60. chiropractic care
61. naps
62. holidays
63. protein powder
64. Auburn University and my experience there
65. University of South Florida and all that I learned
66. Pinterest
67. groceries and money to pay for them
68. a washer and dryer
69. wifi and a computer
70. the Grand Canyon- hiked it four times and it never gets old
71. science
72. Classical Conversations
73. homeschooling
74. organization
75. Emily learning to read!!!
76. electricty and indoor plumbing
77. travel
78. children's books
79. my memory
80. thrift stores and consignment shops
81. my weaknesses because when I am weak then He is strong
82. Chick Fila, Chipolte, and Olive Garden
83. second chances and lessons learned the first time
84. that first impressions aren't always accurate (Amen?)
85. laughter
86. the beach
87. the moutains
88. my coffee maker
89. Christian apologetics resources
90. funny YouTube videos
91. my workout playlist
92. Colorado Pinion Pine Cones (pictured above)
93. mom's red velvet cake
94. Christmas movies
95. Christmas tree farms
96. flowers
97. the sun and moon
98. Easter
99. free will
100. love

 Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. ~1 Chronicles 29:13