Day 59 - 2013

I am grateful for the year that is about to end.

2013 brought me tears, heartaches, and trials that helped me grow, stretch, reach out, and rely on my Savior, my Family, and my Friends.

2013 also brought me joy, good health, a new good job that helped me recognize the hand of my Father in Heaven allowing me to thank Him for the blessings.

We must have opposition in all things to recognize the good things.

And we must have the not so great things around us because they push us to find solutions, to learn, to rely on our faith, our family, and friends. It is through trials that we get closer to our Father in Heaven, our Savior, our Family, and our Friends.

For all that I learned, shared, and endured in 2013 I am grateful.

And I wish all a 2014 filled with opportunity to grow, serve, love, teach, and thank.

Day 58 - Clean Car

Today I am super grateful for a clean car.
I was able to clean all the windows, vacuum it, clean the dirtiness off the steering wheel and other areas hands constantly touch. The trunk has been cleaned out, all the pockets in the doors have been uncluttered.
I feel accomplished and I am grateful I had the time and the means to do it.
One thing checked off my list. I have plenty more to go, but I will take it one step at the time and will get it all accomplished.

Day 57 - Visits with Friends

I spent the afternoon visiting with friends, at different times.
I am grateful for these friends as each brings something unique into my life and as they shared important stories with me, I felt privileged of the trust they gave me.

After all, life is not really lived until we are able to share it with friends and loved ones.

Day 56 - Weddings

Today I went to the Temple and as I was waiting for my daughter, I saw two brides and their husbands.

In a world where the institution of marriage has been torn apart, stepped upon, ridiculed, and denied, I am grateful to see young couples who are willing to accept the covenant of marriage as it has been outlined in the scriptures.

I wish them the very best. They will have ups and downs, but what is important is their willingness to work through the downs and support each other and enjoy every good moment their married life together will bring.

I am grateful for the institution of marriage.

Day 55 - Bella

I watched the movie "Bella" and, although I had a hard time getting into the movie I kept watching it.
It is a movie that teaches about compassion, caring, forgiveness, personal responsibility, and pure love. A love that makes sacrifices and encourages a person be better and to make better choices.

I am grateful I stumbled upon this movie and watched it to the end. I am grateful for the message this movie shared.  It is a wholesome movie. I am grateful to the writers and produces for taking the time to make it.

Day 54 - Christmas Lunch with Friends

Yesterday, it was Christmas Day. We had friends over to share the Christmas meal with us.
It was not your typical American Christmas meal. Nor was it the typical Italian. It was more a mix of whatever I had available to cook but it was, nonetheless, a good meal made even better by the presence of friends.

I am grateful that we were able to eat in good company and share laughter and love.

Perhaps, I shall try to have friends over more often. After all, no one said we can have friends over only during the holidays.

Day 53 - Jesus the Christ

As the Christian world celebrates the birth of our Savior, Jesus the Christ, I was to express my gratitude for His willingness to come to earth to fulfill His Father's plan.

Although we believe He was actually born in April, we do celebrate with the rest of the world this wonderful event. Because of Him, all men are given the opportunity to return to our Father in Heaven.
He is our example. Not only He taught us what we should do, He also did it.  As Christians, there is nothing we are asked to do that He has not done.

He loved others, including His enemies.
He served others expecting nothing in return.
He gave His life for us that we might live.

I am very grateful for Him, His teachings, His example, and His love.

I know He loves each and every one of us, no matter where we are in life. He waits for us to turn to Him and He will guide us and direct us.

Thank you Father for sending Your Son. And thank you, our Savior, for  coming to us.

Day 52 - A Warm House

As the temperature drops outside, I am grateful for my warm house.
I look around and see my child sitting on the couch and two of the three cats comfortably and peacefully sleeping. A Scooby Doo DVD is playing, the heat is running, and I feel blessed beyond compare.
There are people and pets who do not have a place they can call their own. It may be small and it may need a lot of work, but it is a place I can come to at the end of the day and find peace and comfort.

What are you grateful for today?

Day 51 - The Saint

Long, long time ago I used to watch a series, starring Roger Moore, called "The Saint." Today, when I went to the library, I found the DVDs and brought them home.
My son and I began watching them. I am grateful that we are sharing this time together enjoying an old TV show. With its quirkiness, it brings laughter at the end of an exhausting day.

Day 49 and 50 - Memories and Christmas Songs

So sorry I missed yesterday. A friend of mine was admitted to the hospital and I had things I wanted to do for her to make sure she was being taken care of.

For day 49, I am grateful for memories. For some reason, I remembered my 18th birthday and how three friends gave me a surprise party. It was nothing fancy and it was just the four of us, but it was absolutely fantastic!
It started out with one of them inviting me over to her house, just to spend some time together.
As I rode to bus to her house, I saw my other two friends who, unbeknown to me, where going to her house to set things up. All three of us were standing by the exit door. I recall telling them I was not sure where I was supposed to get off and they both eagerly told me that they were getting off right then but I was to get off the next one. I thanked them and said bye as they got off.  When I got off at the next bus stop I realized it was the wrong one. I was supposed to have gotten off at the same stop by friends got off; however, since I like to walk, I just walked to her house. The thought never occurred to me that I had been incorrectly guided on purpose!
When I arrived at her house, my friend greeted me and I proceeded to tell her how two of our friends were on the bus as well. As I continued with my story, she opened the door to her living room and, to my surprise, my two other friends jumped up and yelled, "Surprise!"
The three of them had decorated the whole living room and went to a great extent to make that surprise party a great success, just for me! I was very touched.
Decades have gone by, but I still remember it as if it were yesterday!
I am thankful for memories.

For today, day 50, I am grateful for Christmas songs. At church, we had a Christmas program. Instead of the usual three speakers and four hymns sung by the congregation, we had the privilege to hear great songs from the choir, the primary children, the young women, a duet, and a quartet. One young girl also played one Christmas piece for us. It was very spiritual and special. I love this time of year. All the songs talking about the birth of our Savior are just absolutely wonderful and I feel the Spirit so strong when I hear them and sing them. I am grateful for music and I am especially grateful for Christmas songs as they testify of the birth of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus the Christ.

Day 48 - Elf

I am watching the movie "Elf" with a friend of mine.
I am grateful for the laughter this movie brings. It is refreshing and it puts one in the Christmas spirit.
If you have never watched this movie, you should make it a point of finding it and watching it.

Some of my favorite quotes are:
- Buddy the Elf! What's your favorite color?
- Have you seen these toilets? They're GINORMOUS!
- The best way to spread Christmas Cheer, is singing loud for all to hear.

There are many more, but I don't want to give all the good quotes away.

Day 47 - Ms. Mary

I had the privilege to have dinner with a friend tonight at her nursing home. It was their Christmas dinner.

Another resident joined us, Ms. Mary. She will turn 93 tomorrow. As I looked at her face, wrinkled by the years, I noticed her eyes. They looked youthful and beautiful. They had a sparkle in them. I could not help but think that she must have been a beauty during her younger years. And, I could not help but keep looking at her.

I am grateful she joined us for dinner. I am grateful I had the chance to look at her, to really look at her. I had seen her before walking around the premises and tending to her plants but never really paid much attention to her.

Tonight I did. And I am grateful I was able to have a conversation with her and to enjoy her company.
I am grateful I was given the chance to make a new friend.

Day 46 - Rides from Friends

Yesterday, my son left for work with the only car we have and without his wallet.
I kept feeling that I should take at least his drivers license to him but I had no car.
So, I posted on Facebook about needing a ride and hoping that one of my local friends would be able and available to give me a ride. And so it happened.

One of my friends was able to take me to the car so I could put my son's license in it. And I am grateful for her availability and and willingness to do so. On his way home, my son told me he had seen several police cars. He did not get stopped, but if he had been, at least he had his license.

Day 45 - Christmas Vacation Begins

I would not be truthful if I did not recognize that I am grateful school is finally out for the holidays.

I called it "vacation" in the title; in reality, I have plenty of stuff to do and I am not even sure I will get to it all. But I am still grateful I will have the chance to work on some of it.

I know that majority of faculty and staff of schools around the nation are happy when "vacation" starts as it gives us a way to recharge and tackle the second part of the school year.

So, to sum it up, I am very grateful for this chance I have to recharge and work on things around the house!

Day 44 - School Parties

I love it when the holidays are near and schools hold their classroom and faculty/staff parties. Today, we were able to bring our favorite food to share with others. I don't have a specific favorite food. If I like it, it is my favorite!

I brought eclairs. I love those things. Along with eclairs, I was able to enjoy a variety of yummy food others brought. I am grateful to my colleagues who shared their favorites even though they might have helped me gain a few pounds :)

Days 42 and 43 - Safe Trips and New Friends

Sorry I missed a day. I am going to make up for it today :)

Yesterday, my son and I took a trip south (Macon, GA) to visit with a friend. The weather was horrible. Heavy rain accompanied us all the way there and it took us longer than expected; however, I am grateful that we made it there and back in safety.

Once there, he took off with his friend and I just waited around. Since that was the first time in Macon, and I did not know the area at all, I decided to go to the church and wait in the parking lot. Within 30 minutes, a vehicle pulled up. It was a family getting ready for an activity. I was able to help them and even join in the event... great food and great games..... and my son thought I was going to get bored!
Not only I enjoyed myself, but I made new friends. I am grateful for those new friends.

Some of you may wonder about me deciding to wait at church. After all, I had never been in Macon.
Well, you see, our church is present in many, many locations. This is one of the beauties of it. No matter where we go, we can always find the church. Same teachings, same great atmosphere, and same love! As long as I will be able to find the church, I will be at home no matter the location!

Day 41 - Today

Today, I am just grateful for today!

Nothing special happened, but just the fact that I was able to go to work, come home, and relax, makes me grateful for today.

Heavenly Father kept my family, my fur babies, myself, and my home safe. I recognize this blessing and I want to give thanks to Him who is over all things.

Day 40 - 3 More Days

I love my job, I really do, but I am grateful that I only have three more days before the Christmas break. I have so many things I need to work on at home that I am welcoming these next couple of weeks.

I am also grateful that we only have a short time before the holidays because the students may be in school with their bodies, but their minds are already at home anticipating the things they will do and the gifts they will receive. There is no working with them until after we return to school!

Do you have something you are grateful for today? Being able to count our blessings everyday is a blessing in itself.

Day 39 - Christmas Program "Walk with Christ"

Last night I had the privilege of attending a Christmas Program at Church.
I was not feeling well and almost did not go. I am so very glad I made myself go because I would have missed out on the most beautiful program ever.

The program was entitled "Walk with Christ."

The first stop was at Bethlehem, in front of the manger. As we stood there, we could smell the hay, and see and hear a group of angels sing "When Joseph Came to Bethlehem." These angels were our some of our primary girls, all dressed in white and smiling as they sang for us.

Our walk continued along the hallway. The walls had pictures of the Savior during His life; they showed Him at the Temple with the Priests, with the multitude as He preached, healing the sick, raising the dead, and performing other miracles.

The next stop was in Jerusalem, in the room where the Last Supper took place.
The table was adorned with pottery, cups, plates, and food. The scriptural account of the event was playing in the background. You could smell the bread and as you listened to the words spoken, you could visualize the Savior breaking the bread and giving it to His disciples. In a corner, stood a stool and a wooden bowl with water and a towel. Next to them, a pair of sandals. The Savior showed us by example how we should serve others.

We then went to the Garden of Gethsemane. You could smell the trees and feel the sadness of what happened there. To read the words spoken by the Savior to His disciples first and to His Father next was very touching. He was all alone as He took upon Himself all the sins and sufferings of mankind that we might not have to suffer, if we choose to follow Him.

Then the Golgotha, right outside of Jerusalem. A crown of thorns placed on a wooden beam. A purple robe, a bowl with vinegar and a cloth, and a hammer along with long thick nails completed the scene. We read the accounts of the crucifixion. I cannot even imagine the pain He went through; yet, the pain in the Garden of Gethsemane was even greater.

Our walk ended at the tomb. We first read the account of the resurrection. We then saw the open tomb and a white cloth neatly folded. When we cast our eyes to the right of the tomb, what a great message we were given: "He lives."

The experience of this walk was amazing. I felt as if I truly were there along side the Savior. I want to bear my testimony about our Savior. I know He came to earth a man to show us the way. I know He suffered for our sins and sorrows that we might find forgiveness and peace. I know He died that He might then resurrect and provide resurrection for us.

I am truly grateful to all those who put together this great program.
As a believer, my testimony of the Savior grew stronger.
If I had been an unbeliever, I would have left questioning my unbelief.

Day 38 - Field Trips

As much as I complain about taking away educational time for the sake of pep rallies, concerts, plays, etc., I am grateful for field trips, at least the ones our students take.

I work with a group of teachers who cater to children with disabilities (mostly autistic). Our field trips are exhausting, to say the least; however, the purpose of these trips makes up for the hard work we face.

The trips are planned to allow our students to be out in the community and learn to interact with other people (other than the ones they see each day) and to also learn skills such as choosing merchandise and paying for it, or ordering from a menu at a restaurant.

Today, we went shopping for our secret pal and then ate at a local restaurant. They all did very well and the people they interacted with were very nice and patient with them. The waitresses at the restaurant even had little bags with small gifts they gave each child.

I am proud of these students, and I am grateful to all those who put work into it and made this day a special one for our students.

Day 37 - Good Coworkers

Most of us have to work outside the home to take care of our families. In this case, work is not an option but an obligation.

I am grateful to work with great people who make my day brighter and who are always there, ready to help. I love my coworkers. With them, my obligation is easier to bear....

Great coworkers are like the spoonful of sugar that helps the medicine go down!

Day 36 - Vacuum Cleaners

This morning, I am grateful for vacuum cleaners. One of my cats decided she was going to sit on the mantle of the fireplace and, in the process, knocked off a candle in a glass....

... The glass shattered everywhere. So, I am grateful for vacuum cleaners who help clean up these types of messes. We love walking barefoot and now, that the glass has been vacuumed, we still can!

There are so many things we take for granted! I am glad that, because of this blog, I am able to recognize and be grateful for those daily things I have been blessed with.

What are you grateful for, today?

Day 35 - Family Pictures

Today, I had the pleasure to be with my children and respective spouse for family pictures.

It was nice to be all together again and to make memories we can revisit in years to come. I am grateful for a technology that allows us to capture moments. As children grow older and go off in the world on their own, it is great to have their smiling faces around.

Whether your family consists of yourself and your children, or your parents, or other relatives, or even your pets, make sure to take a snapshot of precious moments. They will bring a ray of sunshine for days to come.

Day 34 - Charlie

Who says cats don't listen?

I have a cat, Charlie, who listens when I call. She is a small long hair tuxedo kitty we rescued from animal control about 3 years ago, when she was only a few weeks old. She was very small and, although she has grown, she is still petite. You would expect her to get bigger, since she has big paws and a very long tail; however, she seems to have stopped growing.

Anyway, she knows when you talk to her and she looks at you like she is attentively listening to what you are saying. I love having conversations with her; therefore, tonight, I am grateful for Charlie, my listening cat.

Day 33 - Leftovers

I am grateful for leftovers because they allow me, after a long day at work, to just come home, take them out of the refrigerator, warm them up in the microwave and... dinner is ready! No time and energy spent thinking about things to cook. No time and energy spent cooking. Leftovers make for a very nice beginning of a relaxing evening.

Ok, ok... dishes still need to be done, and may be laundry too, but, at least, dinner is not one thing I have to worry about when I have leftovers I can use.

Besides... I only cook things that I like so eating leftovers is like having a favorite meal twice in a row!

Day 32 - Touched by an Angel

Do you remember the TV series Touched by an Angel? I did not have the chance to see all of the episodes, but I did love the ones I watched!
As much as some might find it corny, I enjoyed it very much. May be because I do know that Heavenly Father loves each and everyone of us.

Today, I am grateful that I was able to find three seasons at a Goodwill store. After these many years, it is very nice to be able to watch an uplifting program.

And on the subject of angels, I am grateful for those angels among us who support us, comfort us, guide us, and help us. These angels may not appear and disappear like Monica does, but they are none the less special individuals Heavenly Father places on our way because He loves us. They may be a teacher, a neighbor, or a loved one.

Has your life been blessed by an angel?

Day 31 - Nurses Who Care

I am grateful for nurses who care. I have a friend who is not doing well, but today, thanks to a nurse who is thoughtful, kind, and caring, my friend was able to go through the cycle of her dialysis without a glitch!

Many jobs can be assigned to just anyone able to understand and follow instructions. There are a few jobs, however, that require special people. Nurses belong to this special category.

I hope I will not need a nurse any time soon; however, when that time will come, I hope I will be assigned a nurse just like my friend has.

Day 30 - Rest

I am grateful that, at the end of the day, I can come home and rest. 

It may be unimportant, but there are many people that after a day's work go home to change and head out to their second job. 

Things may change in the future; however, for now, I am grateful I can come home and rest for the remainder of the evening. I get the change to recharge and get ready for the next day.

What are you grateful for?

Day 29 - December

The Thanksgiving month is over. Starting today, most likely, the "I am thankful for" posts on Facebook or other social media will stop.

I am grateful it is December and I will be able to continue with my thoughts of gratitude. I know many are thankful all year round and November is just when they voice it. However, why not share our thankful moments through the year? I believe that if more people shared their gratitude as often as possible our families and communities would be better for it.

After all....

Have you expressed your gratitude today?

Day 28 - Light Timers

It may be such a silly thing, but, today, I am grateful for light timers.
Yesterday, we decorated our Christmas tree with clear Christmas balls, and with gold and copper colored ones (and a couple of odd ornaments too). Of course, we also added lights.

Since I was a little girl, I was taught to never leave lights on unattended and so, during the day (mostly because you really can't see the lights) and while we sleep, those lights are turned off. As most light sockets are close to the floor, I had to crawl under the Christmas tree in order to get to the plug.

Today, I attached the lights to a timer so that, when dusk comes, they will turn on and stay on for a few hours and then they will be off again. The process is repeated right before dawn, when it is still dark outside. Our lights will welcome us until full daylight will appear.

Yes, I am grateful for light timers :)

What are you grateful for today?

Day 27 - Kind Words

Sometimes, someone says something kind and totally out of the blue. It is then we realize how nice it is to hear kind words. This just happened to me. I opened an e-mail and the sender had shared with me her thoughts and they made me feel all warm and fuzzy :)

I am grateful for the kind words spoken and I have decided that I am going to do the same for someone else. A kind of  "pay it forward" deal.

How about you? Will you accept the challenge to call, text, or e-mail someone and offer kind words to brighten their day?

Day 26 - The Spirit of Giving

With the Thanksgiving Holiday, the Spirit of Giving starts working really hard on people and you can see many working extra hard to find ways to help those less fortunate. 

Today, I am grateful for this Spirit as it brings out the best in people and inspires them to look outside of themselves in order to help others. Some donate their time, some donate money, and others donate items of different kind. No matter the kind of help that is given, it is surely the best thing happening during this time of year.

May we be able to carry this Spirit not only through the Holiday Season but throughout the whole year.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Day 25 - My Son

I am grateful for my son. He is not the perfect son, but who is?

As I read the newspaper about individuals who made a less than desirable choice, I look at him and I am grateful for who he is. I am grateful that he has stuck with me and, although begrudgingly at times, he has followed my counsel and that of others who love him and only want the best for him.

I don't have enough years left on this earth to list the blessings he has brought me. He has caused me to get some grey hair and I have shed many tears, but we both stuck to it and we are both better people because of it.

I am grateful for his caring, compassionate spirit. I am grateful for his talents. I am grateful for his love. Again, he is not perfect and there are things he still needs to change, just like I do.

So, to all those of you who have less than perfect children, hang in there, keep loving them, and keep being a good example to them. And, do count the blessings they bring you. Look at them through the Savior's eyes and many of those imperfections will fade away.

Day 24 - Words of Wisdom

I am grateful that there are people in the world much wiser than I am and that, through their caring, are able to speak words of wisdom for everyone else to hear.

The quote I read and that helped me decide on today's grateful thought is the following:

"Broken minds can be healed just the way broken bones and broken hearts are healed. While God is at work making those repairs, the rest of us can help by being merciful, nonjudgmental, and kind." - Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

I am grateful for these words as one of my weaknesses is passing judgment. I have improved and I am not as quick at judging others as in the past, but I still have a long way to go.

I don't know your story and, therefore, I cannot judge on why you made one decision instead of another. I cannot decide if your situation is better or worse than mine.

If I have judged you and, therefore, withheld my mercy and kindness, I ask for your forgiveness.

May we all look at each other as the Savior would look at us and may we extend mercy, kindness, compassion, and love just like He would.

Day 23 - Greg Olsen

If you have never seen any of Greg Olsen paintings you are missing out!

Today I am grateful for him, his talent, and his willingness to share it with others. With his paintings, he adds inspirational messages. If you like to subscribe to the daily inspirational thought, you might just want to like his Facebook page.

This is the caption for today's painting:

Love is treating people the way Jesus would treat them.
("The Comforter" by Greg Olsen)

* Jesus serves as the ultimate role model for us all. The familiar phrase, "What would Jesus do?" is a wonderful guidepost to keep us on course. So, rather than criticize, critique, resent, put down or judge, see what a little Christlike love can do. You'll be amazed with the results. - Greg

Chances are you have seen his work but did not realize it was his.

I am grateful to be able to see and enjoy his paintings and inspirational thoughts.

Day 22 - Creativity

Today, I am grateful for creativity.

Because of it, I can make artsy things and sell them for a small profit; I can write poems and stories for readers to read, thus earning a small profit; and I can enjoy what others have created, therefore, bringing beauty in my own life.

I cannot imagine life without splashes of color, beautiful sounds, and great objects to admire.

So, today, I am saying thank you to the most creative individual of all who not only created but gave us the gift as well: our Father in Heaven.

Day 21 - Tune In Radio

It may be something small, but I am grateful for Tune In Radio.

My daughter told me of this radio station a few months back. I was able to download it and I can now listen to music, news, and talk shows from my own home country.

I was so excited the first time I heard the news that I called my parents and had them listen in. It was like being back home for a while :)

Day 20 - Freedom of Speech

I am grateful for freedom of speech.

Because of it, I can write this blog and express my gratitude for things I have; because of it, I can share my opinion of things.

“It is the rare fortune of these days that one may think what one likes and say what one thinks.” ― Tacitus, Histories of Tacitus

Day 19 - Memories

I did not get the chance to post this morning, so I am going to post now.

Today, I am grateful for memories.
We all have memories. Some are good and some we would like to forget. None the less, I am grateful for all memories.

The good ones keep me going. They bring a ray of sunshine during an otherwise gloomy day.

The not so good ones remind me how far I have come, the challenges I was able to overcome, and the choices I should not make again.

So, you see, all memories serve a purpose and I am grateful for all of them.

Day 18 - Books

Books are like magic traveling mirrors that allow you to go places, meet important people, accomplish things, ... all from the comfort of your home (or car, or doctor's office, or wherever you may be as you read).

I am grateful for books, whether in their original paper form or in electronic form.

One of my last favorite books I read is Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier.

What is your favorite?

day 17 - Missionaries

I am grateful for missionaries.

There are several types of missionaries out there and all of them try to bring something good to the area they visit.

I love my missionaries because they spend 18 to 24 months of their lives talking to others about our Savior, Jesus the Christ, among other things. They pay to go on the mission and they put everything else in their life on hold so they can share the Gospel and serve those around them in innumerable ways.

Other religions have missionaries as well. I can think of a great missionary who gave her entire life to service: Mother Teresa. What an example she was and still is to those of her faith and others.

I am sure the list is much greater than what I have listed and I am grateful for all of them.

Day 16 - Washer and Dryer

Washers exist in most countries of the worlds, but fewer countries have dryers. I am thankful for dryers because I can start a load of clothes in the washer at 5 AM and have it ready to wear by 7 AM. 

I grew up without a dryer. Washing clothes and other items was dependent on the weather. During the winter, it could take the whole day for things to dry, and that is assuming you had a nice warm house; therefore, laundry was a planned event. 

Now that I have a dryer, it matters not what the weather looks like. It could be sunny and it could be storming, my clothes can still be washed and dried in two hours.

This is one convenience I am not willing to do without. Could I live without it? Yes, I could. But where a choice is given, it would not be something I would give up.

Day 15 - Promptings of the Holy Ghost

I am thankful for promptings of the Holy Ghost as they guide and help us.

Whether this guide and help is directly for us or for someone else, it matters not. When we stay close to the Savior, the Spirit whispers to us and allows us to magnify our life on this earth.

Because of these promptings, people have helped me when I needed help without me asking them and I have been able to be an instrument in His hands by helping others without them telling me.

I am grateful for these promptings and I am grateful to those who heeds them and act upon them!

May you always stay close to the Savior to be the recipient of these promptings and reach out to those who need you.

If you are unsure on how to recognize them, here is an article that might help you :)

Receiving, Recognizing, and Responding to the Promptings of the Holy Ghost by Elder David A. Bednar

Day 14 - True Friends

I am thankful for true friends :)

Friends, true friends, when found, are very valuable. They love you through thick and thin; they support you, yet they chastise you when less than better choices are made. They cry with you and laugh with you.

I am blessed to have some true friends around me. I am blessed to feel of their unconditional love.

True friendship multiplies the good in life and divides its evils. Strive to have friends, for life without friends is like life on a desert island... to find one real friend in a lifetime is good fortune; to keep him is a blessing.
Baltasar Gracian 
Read more at Brainy Quotes

Day 13 - Medical Technology

As my friend rests peacefully in her hospital bed, I am grateful that medicine has progressed and created solutions to help us overcome physical problems.

She now has a pacemaker to help her heart regulate the heartbeat. As her heart functions better, we are hopeful that other physical problems she is experiencing will also get better.

Today is a new day and it brings new hope!

Best wishes to all those who are recovering from surgery. May the procedure you had to endure make your life better from this moment on.

Day 12 - Bales of Straw

The cold temperature (20s) has finally reached us (only to leave us in a couple of days to get back in the 60s and 70s). I am grateful for bales of straw that help my fur babies keep warm.

I made a kitty house out of cardboard boxes (one inside the other) and placed insulation between them...I then covered their new home to make it waterproof and filled it with straw... I am not sure if they are using it regularly, yet; however, one of them did have some straw on her back, leading me to believe that she did go and, at least, checked out the house!

Straw is also covering part of the floor in the garage for the dogs. When I first put it down, one of the dogs jumped right into it :)
I think he was happy!

I am grateful for straw that helps make things a bit warmer (although messier) for my outside animals.

Day 11 - Technology

And by technology I mean computers with Internet access, telephones, tablets, etc...

Because of this type of technology, I am able to communicate with family and friends in a far off land. I am grateful for the blessing of being able to talk with them any time I want (well...I do have to take in consideration the time difference, but other than that, I have no limitations).

Because of this type of technology, I can read scriptures in different languages without having to tote around heavy books. It is all at the tip of the fingers. The Church has plenty of materials available for learning and they are all online! So, not only I can access scriptures, I can also access manuals, books, magazines... everything I need to study the Gospel. I am very grateful for this opportunity to learn and grow.

Because of technology, I can share my thoughts and feelings by writing. I can write in electronic journals, blogs, and even try to venture in the writing world :)
I feel blessed!

Yup, technology is great and I am thankful for it!

Day 10 - Health

As I see two of my friends struggle with health issues and as I read about the disaster in the Philippines, I count my blessings.

My aches and pains and my occasional cold are nothing compared to what these wonderful children of our Heavenly Father are going through.

I am also grateful for my parents' health. I live in fear that something may happen to them and, with me being so far away, I worry that I cannot help. Heavenly Father has blessed us as He is keeping them healthy.

I know that, when we are in pain, it is hard to focus on what others are suffering through; but, perhaps, we could try to make a conscious decision to think of others and lose ourselves in the service of those less fortunate that our pains may grow dim and our gratitude for our blessings might increase.

Day 9 - Veterans Day

Nov. 11 is Veterans Day in the US.

Although I don't have anyone serving in the military, or had someone serve in the US Armed Forces, I feel compelled to say thank you to all those who served and still serve in the military that others might enjoy freedoms some other countries can only hope for.

I also want to extend my thanks to the families, past and present, of the veterans. Those families made sacrifices too, while their loved ones served. Too often we forget about the families and the price they had to pay alongside their active duty family member.

America's veterans embody the ideals upon which America was founded more than 229 years ago.
Steve Buyer 
Read more on the Brainy Quotes website.

Day 8 - Car

My car may be a few years old and making funny noises, but it takes me from place to place. I am grateful I have a vehicle I can drive to work or wherever I need to go.

Now, I have a challenge for you readers.
I was looking for "I am thankful for my car" quotes and they don't exist, or, at least, they have not been compiled in one place!

How about sharing your thankful thoughts about your car in the comment area?
Then, if quotes of this kinds are needed, they can be found :)

Have a great thankful day!

Day 7 - Heat

As temperatures start dropping, I am grateful I have heat in the house.

I may not keep it very warm but, with sweatpants, sweatshirt, and socks on, I am comfortable. There are people (and animals) out there who do not have this luxury.

There are those who do not have a roof over their head. They have to rely on organizations such as the Salvation Army to provide for a warm place to sleep. However, from early in the morning until the evening, they have to spend their time somewhere else and that somewhere else, most times, is outside.

Then, there are those who do have a place they call home; however, they cannot afford to have the heat turned on.

So, once again, I am grateful for the blessing of heat in my home. Now I need to think of ways to reach out to those less fortunate.

Day 6 - My Job

I am grateful for my job.

I love my job. I work as a paraprofessional (teacher's helper) and help out a young man who is visually impaired. I am with him the whole school day and I am learning so much from him (and I hope he is learning from me).

Also, it is a bit like going back to school myself as, sitting in his classes, I get to hear the material all over again. Whether I am just listening, or preparing lessons to teach him, I am improving my education as well.

And now, here is a quote I found and that I would like to share:

We can always find something to be thankful for, and there may be reasons why we ought to be thankful for even those dispensations which appear dark and frowning.
Albert Barnes 
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/be_thankful.html#O5Aw5VrYshEqY8xB.99

Day 5 - My Parents

As Nephi of old shared about his parents, I too can say, "I, Elena, having been born of goodly parents..."

Today, I am grateful for my parents. They are truly amazing individuals and I love them very much. They don't share the same beliefs I have, but they do believe in the same Heavenly Father and Savior I believe in.

They have made plenty of sacrifices to help me be who I am; they have made plenty of sacrifices to support me in my decisions, even when they did not agree.

I live 5,000 miles away from them and, although I talk to them every weekend, I wish I had the gift of extremely fast travel so I could go visit them every night for a few minutes, or even hours, yet be back home for a good night's rest and work the next day!

Day 4 - SPLOST Passed

I am thankful our SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Sales Tax) has passed.

I am so hopeful that this will bring in more revenue for our city and more businesses, which, in turn, will bring more jobs.

I am also extremely happy that we will have a new animal control facility. This should translate to a better temporary life for our abandoned fur babies, a higher adoption chance, and the possibility of being sterilized before adoption, meaning less puppies and kitties running around looking for homes because their owners were not responsible owners.

Yes, I am a happy person.

Day 3 - My Children

I am grateful for my children. They are different one from the other and because of that they each have taught me something different and important.

From my daughter, I have learned to always have a smile on my face. I don't always follow her example, but I am trying :)

From my son, I have learned to give people the benefit of a doubt. I used to jump to conclusion without stopping to consider that, perhaps, there are special circumstances behind decisions people make. I am doing better with this challenge than the other one.

I found this quote on gratitude and I hope it touches your heart as it touched mine.

"This is a wonderful time to be living here on earth. Our opportunities are limitless. While there are some things wrong in the world today, there are many things right, such as teachers who teach, ministers who minister, marriages that make it, parents who sacrifice, and friends who help.

"We can lift ourselves, and others as well, when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues" (Thomas S. Monson, "An Attitude of Gratitude," Ensign, May 1992, 54).

Day 2 - Bounty of Things

I am grateful today for the bounty of things I have.

As I cleaned out a few things around the house, I realized how blessed I am to have a lot of things, especially warm clothes during this approaching cold season.

With this in mind, I would like to share something a friend of mine posted on Facebook:

"When you are getting your winter clothes back out take a minute to go through your things and make a pile to donate to someone who doesn't have nice, warm clothes. I know a lot of groups will start doing clothing drives for coats, scarves, winter clothes and shoes and household goods. This is the time of year when we do so much in excess. Before the Holidays come and you load back up on more things you may not need, see what you can do for others. You're doing something wonderful for others and helping yourself in more ways than you know. "

As you look forward to spending time with your family and sharing all that you have with them, please find something to share with someone who is not as blessed as you are.

May you be able to count your blessings everyday, live and love life at its fullest.

November, the Thanksgiving Month

All over Facebook, starting on November 1, people share things they are grateful for.

I chose to start a blog instead. My intention is to have 365 days of gratitude as I believe that we should all be grateful the whole year round. We should be grateful thorough all the ups and downs of life. Every day, there should be something we can recognize as a blessing.

The blog will include something I am grateful for, but I will also look through things other people share, the news, other blogs, letters...

I hope that you will find this inspirational and will also challenge you to seek out those daily blessings 365 days a year.

As one of my favorite hymns says, "Count your blessings, name them one by one..."

Today I am grateful for the freedom to express my thoughts and feelings :)