Thanksgiving Thoughts

I know it's only Tuesday but tomorrow I'll be working on Thanksgiving preparations for the
first Thanksgiving dinner to be served at our house!

The following is from an Ann Landers Column and I usually get it at least once a year via email. Every time I read it, it touches me. We so often fret about things in our life that aren't just so or about the things we don't have while ignoring the blessings we live with everyday.

Things to Be Thankful For

Be thankful for the clothes that fit a little too snug, because it means you have
enough to eat.

Be thankful for the mess you clean up after a party, because it means you have
been surrounded by friends.

Be thankful for the taxes you pay, because it means you're employed.

Be thankful that your lawn needs mowing and your windows need fixing, because it means you have a home.

Be thankful for your heating bill, because it means you are warm.

Be thankful for the laundry, because it means you have clothes to wear.

Be thankful for the space you find at the far end of the parking lot, because it
means you can walk.

Be thankful for the lady who sings off-key behind you in church, because it
means you can hear.

Be thankful when people complain about the government, because it means we
have freedom of speech.

Be thankful for the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours, because it
means you're alive.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Special Olympics Celebration

My friend Deanna works in a human services organization that specializes in the needs of developmentally disabled adults. Recently, one of their clients was chosen to go to the 2007 Special Olympics World Games in Shanghai, China. This past Friday, the agency threw a wonderful celebration for this young man complete with marching band, antique cars, Air Force Color Guard, speeches from state and local politicians, treats and a balloon launch! Deanna and I took both of our girls to enjoy the festivities.

My girl had never seen a marching band before so this was very cool and exciting to her. (of course I think she also liked the cheese danish just as well....) It was a wonderful celebration and I was very glad to be a part of it. Niam was funny, excited, and just plain inspirational. It's not every day that you get to witness one of someones greatest moments!

And that is a pleasure no amount of money can buy!