A very sick

feeling,

but also a feeling of gratitude.

Misty and Dan headed home today.

She kept us informed with texts as they went through various places.

All was well until we got one that said they were in an accident

And the car was totaled.

It was one of those heart dropping moments.

Tiffany quickly texted back and asked if they were all OK.

She texted back, "yes."

My first thought is to get in the car to go get them and give them our Suburban.

Since they are in Rifle, Colorado, that was really not a good option.

So as of now, two hours later, they are sitting in the cab of a diesel

waiting for a ride into town.

We've made a hotel reservation for them and lined up a rental car to get home.

They did not need this at this point in their lives.

But it is definitely a time to count our blessings.

All seven of them.

Tonight

in between making pumpkin rolls, fudge, turkey pops, and pies (I'm in charge of dessert tomorrow), I sat down and read this article in the paper.

"Research say gratitude

brings health, happiness"

"Academics have long theorized that expressions of thanks promote health and happiness and give optimism and energy to the downtrodden.  Now, the study of gratitude has become a surprisingly burgeoning field, and research indicates being thankful might help people actually feel better.  There's a catch, however:  You have to say thanks more than just once a year.  If you don't do it regularly, you're not going to get the benefits . . . It's kind of like you you went to the gym once a year.  What would be the good of that."

Interesting, but I didn't really need a researcher to tell me that.  The scriptures tell us that.  My heart tells me that.  If  I am ever feeling overwhelmed or depressed, counting my blessings (and expressing thanks) does wonders.  But even still, knowing that, I do often forget.

So, during this season of Thanksgiving,

I want to express gratitude.

 

Gratitude for those who came before me. (I don't think I could have been born into a more wonderful home or family)
 
Gratitude for the handsome guy sitting right next to me in the recliner with his computer on his lap. 

Gratitude for my daughters who give my life joy, meaning, and purpose.

Gratitude for my sons-in-law who are so good to my daughters and grandchildren.   

Gratitude to my grandchildren who light up my life with joy.

Gratitude for all relatives, friends, and neighbors who enhance my life with their goodness and love. 

Gratitude for the many people who have left, and continue to leave, "footprints on my heart."

Thank you.