Thankful

I am thankful! I am thankful to have a healthy, happy husband, who I love more than I ever knew I could love anything. He defies the odds and leads fearlessly. His character and heart inspire me. He is my smile, my heart and my soul mate. He is my best friend. I could write a million words and still not express how much I love my sweet and amazing husband.

I am thankful for my house, which is now a little more secure, thanks to our new security system that was installed on Wednesday after an attempted break in. My furry friends inside that house who keep me company and remind me how to love unconditionally.

I am thankful for the family and friends that came to my aid when I was facing this situation head on - with Neil out of town. Thanks B, for bringing the shot gun. Thanks R, for checking the perimeter of the house after they came the first time. Thanks Dad, for waiting with me in the middle of the night until Neil got home. Thanks to the Austin Police Department who arrived at my house within 7 minutes of calling 911. Thanks A & S for the help with a trustworthy security system company. Thanks to my friends who are praying for protection around our home.

I am thankful that my Heavenly Father watches over us and holds us tight, even in our scariest moments. He is there; He is in control.

¹ The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?

² When evil men advance against me
to devour my flesh,
when my enemies and my foes attack me,
they will stumble and fall.

³ Though an army besiege me,
my heart will not fear; though war break out against me,
even then will I be confident.

Psalms 27:1-3

Count your blessings

This sweet and comforting phrase is only 3 words long- but its meaning is far-reaching into the corners of my world. It is possible to be very, very thankful and sad and the same time. It is possible to feel both faithful and anxious at the same time. These dichotomies of emotions are part of the human and spiritual complexity that is us. I believe we are allowed to feel this mess of emotion in order to become stronger and see the truth of life. And, just like level 10 on the stair climber- it's not so easy! Sometimes you just want to jump off and puke!

But that is not the way to become stronger, not the way to victory. Even in the face of adversity, or a trial, or sadness, or fear, or uncertainty, or _______ fill in the blank if you will. We must continue to take another step, with gratitude and faith, with the same positive outlook that comes so easy when life is dripping with the good stuff.

NO MATTER WHAT -my list of blessings is unending, so I will never stop counting; never stop being thankful, never stop growing in my faith. I will keep climbing and keep counting.