GRATITUDE

I have been thinking a lot lately about the things that I am grateful for. Even in my prayers, I try to focus more on the things I'm thankful for, specifically. I am so blessed and when I remember, focus on, and talk about those blessings, I realize just how much I am blessed. I love the autumn of the year. It's a beautiful time when the earth is touched with color...more than any other season. The feeling in the air is different...a melancholy feeling of memories and traditions. It's the end of a long, hot, drawn out summer and gives a sense of something about to happen. I even feel more like baking and making something yummy so the house smells good and 'homey'. The 'nip' in the air and the winds of change are upon us, blowing the leaves in swirls, with a hint of eeriness. I think of my childhood with fondness and the holidays with visions of celebrations and spending time with family. It also makes me think of the winding down of our time on earth when we can look forward to being with family again that have long been asleep. What a joyous reunion that will be!! As for holidays...Halloween was filled with candy, pillowcases full, homemade costumes, parties at church; Thanksgiving around the table, enjoying food, family, and having lots of leftovers, being thankful; Christmas with the sounds, sights, and smells of goodies, ornaments, presents, and the gift of love from God when he sent his only begotten Son to be our Savior and Redeemer of the world! Yes, Fall is my most favorite time of the year and I'm filled with gratitude!