"Praise the bridge that carried you over." - George Colman

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving 2010 and it has been a year since I started this gratitude blog! Even though I missed some days I am grateful that I decided to keep at it. There are many things that I wrote that I will appreciate in the future when I look back at this blog. I appreciate that I attempted to do it everyday. I am so grateful for the life I have and the family and friends that surround me!

"One can pay back the loan of gold, but one dies forever in debt to those who are kind." - Malayan Proverb

I am grateful for reprieves! We were suppose to have a big time blizzard here and it was going to hit by the afternoon. Thank goodness we had a reprieve and as of right now it is only snowing a little. We had time to run all of our errands and make sure we have all the Thanksgiving shopping done. Thank you weather : )

"A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked." - Bernard Meltzer

I am grateful for beautiful winter days. It is so pretty to see the snow coming down. Of course I like it better when I am able to stay in the house and not drive in it : )

"Praise the bridge that carried you over." - George Colman

I am grateful for baby kisses : ) I received many of them today from grandchildren that I love.

"There are no mistakes, no coincidences. All events are blessings given to us to learn from."- Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

I am grateful for small pleasures, sitting and relaxing, enjoying the sunshine,
talking to my children. I hope to always remember the little things and show appreciation for them!

"I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder." - G.K. Chesterton

I am grateful for the blessing of contentment. That is not an easy one for me so when I have it I really appreciate it! A sense of contentment helps to to feel more at peace and I enjoy what life has to offer and that is a great way to be.

"The only people with whom you should try to get even are those who have helped you." - John Southard

I am grateful for loving service that is extended to people throughout the world with no thought of praise or glory. I hope to be able to add to this service by extending my hands to help those in need whenever it is necessary.

"God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say "thank you?" - William Ward

Been feeling depressed today and not sure why so it is time to find something to be grateful for : ) I am thankful for being able to make a photo book so easy on I photos!
Even though it is taking a while to organize everything it is so much easier then anything we had access to in the past. Many thanks to the world of computers.

"Gratitude is the very bread and meat of spiritual and moral health, individually and collectively." - Noel Smith


I am grateful for consistency. Chris and I have been working everday "consistently" to clean and organize the house and garage. We pick a small section to work on and spend several hours on it. We are finally seeing the results now after several months. It took us almost 40 years to gather all of this stuff so I know it will take a while to clean out. I appreciate the fact that we have been consistent in our resolution to do this project!

"The discipline of gratitude is the explicit effort to acknowledge that all I am and have is given to me as a gift of love, a gift to be celebrated with joy." - Henri J. Nouwen

I am grateful for friends of times past, during other times of our lives. Chris and I met six of them today at a small diner to eat lunch. I realized how much I cared for each one of them and was so appreciative that I could spend time catching up on their past and present. Thank you for all good friends!

When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep? - George Canning

Back to trying to finish up my gratitude blog after weeks of inactivity. My life has become busy with a capital "B", but I make no excuses for not continuing. We had a lesson at church on sunday about gratitude. The teacher asked how we can remember to give thanks for our blessings and I rededicated myself right then to finish this blog.
Thanksgiving is in a few weeks and I hope to continue until then. I really am grateful for every blessing I receive everyday!

"Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well." - Voltaire

I am grateful for old western movies. I love Gene Autry, Roy Rogers and John Wayne! I like the old music and black and white pictures too. I enjoyed seeing the manners, respect and honor that they exhibited as they were being the heros of my youth. Wish there were movies like that today.

“We have no right to ask when a sorrow comes, 'Why did this happen to me?' unless we ask the same question for every joy that comes our way." - anonymous

I am grateful that I can experience the beauty of nature so often. I was sitting by the river today and saw an osprey scoop a fish right out of the water (in front of me) and fly up the river! He or she was beautiful! The longer I spend by the river the more I get to see life revolving around it. I am truly grateful for this blessing.

"Any man's life will be filled with constant and unexpected encouragement if he makes up his mind to do his level best each day." - Booker T. Washington

I am grateful for planes! It is so great to be able to fly somewhere that takes forever driving. I know that some think that flying has lost its luster but think what it was like before we had that opportunity. When it does go well you get to your destination fast and ready to have fun : )

"Courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones which strike deepest in the grateful and appreciating heart." - Henry Clay


I am very grateful when I can render service to others. It makes me feel good inside and helps me to appreciate the life I have. Giving charity to others helps to spread God's love around : )

"We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth, and power as no other nation has ever grown." - Abraham Lincoln

I am grateful for my good heath so I can exercise every morning. It makes me feel good physically and mentally. I appreciate the fact that I can do it. There are so many who cannot.

"In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

It has been too long since I wrote my gratitude blog. My daughter Shan came to visit with the grandsons for a week and then I turned around and went to a conference for one of my hobbies and didn't have access to a computer.
I am so grateful for God's grace and being able to repent of my sins. I am also grateful that my friends and family always forgive me and continue to encourage me in the ever allusive goal towards perfection.
Life is wonderful!

"The discipline of gratitude is the explicit effort to acknowledge that all I am and have is given to me as a gift of love, a gift to be celebrated with joy" - Henri J. M. Nouwen

I am grateful for the beauty of art and the enjoyment I get from looking at gorgeous artwork. I also am blessed to have so many artists in the immediate family that I can go and enjoy their work.

"Some complain that roses have thorns… others rejoice that thorns have roses!" -
Anonymous

I am grateful when our community pulls together and supports a cause. Chris and I went to a community meeting tonight that was organized by Rowland Heights. We are fighting a proposed 775 apartment complex that was originally zoned for a few homes. Everyone in the community does not want the extra traffic and congestion that will certainly come if it is built. I was amazed when I entered the banquet room (where the meeting was to be) and saw over 500 people there, my neighbors, standing up for something that they feel strongly about : )

"This is the finest measure of thanksgiving: a thankfulness that springs from love." - William C. Skeath

I am grateful for my computer : ) I have been scanning old pictures onto my photo program as well as typing recipes into my work program. I have a lot less junk in my house since I can put it on my computer.

"When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep?" - George Canning

I am grateful for all of my friends who share my faith! We are united in a common belief and strengthen each other as we try to make it through this life. Many thanks to all of them : )

"In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer


I am grateful for patriotism. I love our country!!! I feel so blessed to live here and appreciate what privileges and responsibilities go with that.

"Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all." - William Faulkner

I am grateful that I like to cook. I enjoy trying new recipes, but I also like to make my tried and true ones. I also appreciate that I like most foods and am willing to try almost anything once : )

"I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder." - G.K. Chesterson

I am grateful for my fathers service as a captain in the 461st Bombardment Squad in the Army Air Corps (now the Air Force)during World War II. I just rediscovered a written account of my fathers missions from one of his crew and it is amazing, he was truly a real hero! How blessed I am to be his daughter : )

"For today and its blessings, I owe the world an attitude of gratitude." - Clarence Hodges

I am grateful for home grown fruits and vegetables! I just stopped at our local farm stand to pick up some of the last of the season produce. I will certainly miss it until it comes back in January. We are blessed her in California to have a longer growing season so the produce stands stay open longer in the season and reopens earlier too.
So good!

"There are no mistakes, no coincidences. All events are blessings given to us to learn from." - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

I am slacking off! So many things going on the past week and I didn't keep up with the gratitude : ) Trying again....
I am grateful when a difficult task is completed. It feels so good especially after all the work and time put into it. Not only can you check it off your list but you feel a great sense of accomplishment!

"The only people with whom you should try to get even are those who have helped you." -
John Southard

I am grateful for my daughter Shannon whose birthday is today! She is a wonderful daughter who always thinks about my welfare and is concerned about me. I love her!!!

"On the recollection of so many and great favors and blessings, I now, with a high sense of gratitude, presume to offer up my sincere thanks to the Almighty, the Creator and Preserver." - William Bartrand


I am grateful when I have no aches and pains. Now that I am getting older I seem to get them often especially after I have worked hard. Wish it wasn't the case but at least I am still here regardless of the shape my body is in : )

"For today and its blessings, I owe the world an attitude of gratitude." - Clarence E. Hodges

I am grateful for my wonderful husband Chris! He always supports me in whatever I do and gets so excited when I achieve my goals. He stands by me whatever happens and cares deeply about me. I love him so much!

"The only people with whom you should try to get even are those who have helped you." -
John Sothard


I am grateful for the use of my legs and also grateful that I don't have any disabilities. I really admire those who have to deal with this every day, they are the greatest!

"There are no mistakes, no coincidences. All events are blessings given to us to learn from." - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross


I am grateful for another day living in this wonderful world!

"On the recollection of so many and great favors and blessings, I now, with a high sense of gratitude, presume to offer up my sincere thanks to the Almighty, the Creator and Preserver." - William Bartram


I am grateful for my aunt and uncle, Mimi and John. They are special people to me and I love to spend the afternoon with them. They are so kind and generous and really care about me. I appreciate them and hope that they will be part of my life for a while longer.

"Gratitude is the fairest blossom, which springs from the soul; and the heart of man knoweth none more fragrant." - Hosea Ballou

I am grateful for having a good memory (for the most part : ) My husband always asks me "How can you remember all of this stuff?" I like it because it helps me to cherish good times in my past.

Gratitude is our most direct line to God and the angels.- Terry Lynn Taylor


I am grateful for air conditioning that works : ) It was 106 today and the little things we take for granted (that our ancestors did not have) are a very big deal today!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for that cool air : )

"A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked." - Bernard Meltzer


I am grateful for the great memories I have growing up a country girl! I loved being in 4-H showing my rabbits, goats and sheep. The fun times I had at 4-H camp and camping at the fairgrounds : ) Having these experiences helped me become responsible since the animals I had depended totally on me for their care. I also learned (the hard way) that
things don't always turn out the way you would like (especially when you have to accept the death of a favorite animal) but you can also experience tremendous joy (like the time I won the Senior Showmanship trophy)I wouldn't want to give up those memories!

"For today and its blessings, I owe the world an attitude of gratitude." - Clarence E Hodges

Gratitude today is for finished projects! (whatever they may be : ) In this case I cannot divulge what the project is as the recipient may find out by reading this so will keep quiet : ) I love the feeling I get when I can check something off of my to do list.

"One can pay back the loan of gold, but one dies forever in debt to those who are kind." - Malayan Proverb

I am grateful for my succulents and cactus plants. Blossoms have opened on my "Star Flower" succulents and they are beautiful and well as unusual looking. What a blessing to have the beauty of all kinds of flowers!

"Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift." - Apostle Paul - 2 Corinthians 9:15


I am grateful for all the variety of food we have here is the United States. We are so blessed to have access to almost any kind of food or to make whatever meal we want. What a blessing that many in other countries do not have!

"This is the finest measure of thanksgiving: a thankfulness that springs from love." -
William C. Skeath

I am grateful for friends who inspire me to reach for the stars!

"When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep?" - George Canning

I am grateful for the better quality of car that is available today, especially when traveling. I remember driving to college in my 1970 El Camino and wondering when my car would overheat, have transmission troubles or need a quart of oil. (and that isn't including flat tires) For the most part cars are safer and better then they were many years ago. (though I admit they were "cooler looking" back then : )

"You say, 'If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.' You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled."
Charles Haddon Spurgeon

I am grateful for having a desire to draw. I just started drawing six months ago basically because a good friend didn't want to go to the adult ed class by herself : ) I told her that I wasn't that interested but would go to give her support, then found out that I enjoy it! I also found out that my mom used to draw when she was young. I guess that means it was meant to be : )

"Gratitude is not a spiritual or moral dessert which we may take or push away according to the whims of the moment, and in either case without material consequences. Gratitude is the very bread and meat of spiritual and moral health, individually and collectively."
Noel Smith


I am grateful for the spirit of co-operation : ) Chris and I went to Ikea today to look for a desk that we like for the office. After much debate we both agreed on the same desk. There was some give and take but we co-operated and came down to a mutually agreeable decision. (and we love our new desk : )

"Gratitude goes beyond the 'mine' and 'thine' and claims the truth that all of life is a pure gift. In the past I always thought of gratitude as a spontaneous response to the awareness of gifts received, but now I realize that gratitude can also be lived as a discipline. The discipline of gratitude is the explicit effort to acknowledge that all I am and have is given to me as a gift of love, a gift to be celebrated with joy." -
Henri Nouwen


I am grateful that I like to get silly sometimes : ) Laughing with friends or family over something silly helps me realize that laughter is a good medicine. I appreciate being able to be "goofy" sometimes!

"When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep?" - George Canning


I am grateful for county fairs! We went to visit the Clark County Fair today and had a great time. I love to visit the barns to see my favorite livestock and go through the home arts building and admire the quilts, flowers, paintings, ect, ect,. (and the food is good too : ) Fairs are an important part of our nations heritage and I appreciate the time I spend enjoying them!

"Remember God's bounty in the year. String the pearls of His favor. Hide the dark parts, except so far as they are breaking out in light! Give this one day to thanks, to joy, to gratitude" - Meister Eckhart

I am grateful for being a pretty good cook : ) I have to admit that I get into a rut sometimes and make the same old meals but every so often I get excited about new recipes. Then I start checking out the cookbooks (on-line and on my shelf) It gives me a feeling of accomplishment to be able to create something that looks and tastes great.

"Gratitude is the very bread and meat of spiritual and moral health, individually and collectively." - Noel Smith


I am grateful for my father-in-law. He is such a sweet person. I appreciate his special spirit and enjoy the time I spend with him.

"Courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones which strike deepest in the grateful and appreciating heart." - Henry Clay


I am grateful when I am sitting on my back deck relaxing in the sun as I see and hear the river go by! Heaven on earth : )

"Some complain that roses have thorns… others rejoice that thorns have roses!" - Anonymous


I am grateful for the old 30's movies, Gene Autry westerns, Fred Astaire musicals, and especially Shirley Temple! They never cease to make me happy and to appreciate my life. There was something in them that fills me with an optimism that no matter what is happening everything will be alright. What a blessing that they are still available to watch and enjoy!

"Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don't unravel." - Anonymous


I am grateful that I have the strength of my convictions. It is difficult when others make fun of or condemn your beliefs. As our world changes my attitudes are considered archaic or old fashioned. I refuse to back down when I am attacked by others. It is a blessing to stand for what you believe.

"This is the finest measure of thanksgiving: a thankfulness that springs from love." -
William C. Skeath

I am grateful for songs that uplift my soul. Music can be wonderful and make you feel so good!

"If you want to turn your life around, try thankfulness. It will change your life mightily." - Gerald Good


I am grateful for good books. I love to read and enjoy all genres. I have been touched deeply through the years by some exceptional reads and appreciate them.

"Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well." - Voltaire


Sorry for the lapse in writing. I was at a yearly convention for my bobbin lace craft taking classes all day. Then when I got done we had dinners, meetins, banquets, ect. to go to. My head hit the pillow late every night exhausted. I didn't even look at the computer until the week was done.
I am grateful for national conventions where I can get together with long time friends that I do not see except once a year. Lots of hugs going on : ) and fun times too!

“We have no right to ask when a sorrow comes, 'Why did this happen to me?' unless we ask the same question for every joy that comes our way.” - anonymous


I have been trying to be grateful for difficulties in my life. That is why I like the quote for today. I know that they build my character and increase my compassion towards others. Its just not easy to say that I am grateful for them. Of course it is probably hard for everyone else too : )

"Courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones which strike deepest in the gratefully and appreciating heart." - Henry Clay

I am always grateful for the small acts of kindness directed toward me or my loved ones.

“If you can read this, thank a teacher.” - anonymous

I am grateful to all of my teachers past and present who helped me to love learning something new!

“The roots of all goodness lie in the soil of appreciation for goodness.” - Dalai Lama

I appreciate going to a "good" movie. It is still the best way to watch a story on the big screen, if it is a quality picture. I tend to be selective as to what I spent my theater money on but I usually am not disappointed. It is fun!

“I would rather be able to appreciate things I can not have than to have things I am not able to appreciate.” - Elbert Hubbard


I am grateful for county fairs : ) We just spent the evening at the Jackson County Fair in Central Point Oregon. I love to see all the exhibits (from home arts to the livestock) Trying out the different foods is fun too : ) The traditional fair is part of our American culture that I really appreciate!

“Appreciation is a wonderful thing: It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well” -
Voltaire

I am very grateful for my ancestors. I have so many stories that have been told to me of their fortitude and courage in difficult circumstances. I believe that my parents strength came directly from their parents and grandparents who did their best in every facet of their life. I am blessed to be part of these families!

“Learn everything you can, anytime you can, from anyone you can - there will always come a time when you will be grateful you did.” - Sarah Caldwell

I am grateful for all the supplies I have to do my crafts. I feel blessed that I have access to and money for acquiring much of what I need. I wish I had more time in the day to enjoy it but I appreciate what time I do have!

“We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.” - Frederick Keonig

I am grateful for my huge eucalyptus tree in the backyard! I planted it when my son Mike was born and it is now 33 years old. It is so majestic looking. During the spring the bees love it because of all the blossoms : ) I love to sit under it reading my books. It is a part of our family that we dearly love.

“We have no right to ask when a sorrow comes, 'Why did this happen to me?' unless we ask the same question for every joy that comes our way." - anonymous

I am grateful for the bounty of fresh fruit and vegetables that we have this time of the year! Great things to eat and use for recipes : ) Many thanks for the good things to eat!

"Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all. "~ William Faulkner

My gratitude today is for the beach. I love to stand and watch the waves as they break upon the sand, and feel the water wash over my feet. Standing by the pier and seeing the dolphins jumping through the sea and the pelicans diving to catch a fish or two. I am blessed to be able to see this sight and love to experience it!

"Train yourself never to put off the word or action for the expression of gratitude." ~ Albert Schweitzer

I am grateful for my sister! We always stick together no matter what has happened in our lives. We have so much fun : ) Tonight we met my sister and her husband for dinner and I was reminded of how much I appreciate her!

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." ~ Winston Churchill


I have been at a lace conference the last two days and worked on lace homework late into the night so did not write in my blog. Now my daughter Julie has arrived to visit so I will be struggling to keep up on the blog this week too : ) I will try tonight and hope to continue the rest of the week.
I am grateful for the confidence I have when I create lace. I finally consider myself an intermediate lacemaker and can take myself off the beginner list! It has been a long time getting to this position but I loved the journey and still want to continue on it. Making lace is a delight : )

What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal. ~ Albert Pine

We have been busy back in Cali the last few days and I have fallen into bed exhausted without writing my blog. Now I am trying again.
I am grateful for the beauty of art and paintings. Since I started sketching I have been drawn toward paintings of all types when I visit friends and neighbors. It is so interesting to find out that many of them were painted or drawn by family members. What a blessing to leave something for your posterity that they will love!

"What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal." ~ Albert Pine

I am grateful for the deep sense of peace I feel in my life. It is such a blessing to be at peace with myself (most of the time) and have that calmness surrounding you.

'Wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving." - Kahlil Gibran

I am grateful for feelings of immense love that I have for my family. They mean everything to me. I hope that I can give them back love as much as they give it to me. All these years of trying to do my best have now been paying me back. (and the payback is in wonderful children and grandchildren : )

"Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary." - Margaret Cousins

On this 4th of July I am so grateful for America and the freedom that we enjoy. I am also grateful for those who sacrificed so much to serve our country. I am blessed to live America!

---

"Gratefulness is the key to a happy life that we hold in our hands, because if we are not grateful, then no matter how much we have we will not be happy -- because we will always want to have something else or something more." -

David Steindl-Rast

I have been busy visiting with my son and his family the last few days and didn't get the blog written. I have been deralic in my duties : ) I am very grateful for the time I have been spending with them this holiday weekend. We have been going on day trips to Mt. St. Helens and the Oregon Coast and have had a great time. So many fun places to take a short trip too!

"Gratitude is born in hearts that take time to count up past mercies." - Charles C. Jefferson


I am grateful for store employees who go out of their way to help me with a possible purchase. I had that experience today at a small business and really appreciate their thorough help and expertise. It is a small thing but means a lot to me.

Gratitude is the sign of noble souls --Aesop

I am grateful for baby voices on the phone : ) Just talked with one of my grandsons on the phone. He may be only one month shy of a year but he loves to babble to me! I love to hear them carry on.
They are the greatest!

"Our society is afflicted by a spirit of thoughtless arrogance unbecoming those who have been so magnificently blessed. How grateful we should be for the bounties we enjoy." - Gordon B. Hinckley


I have to say I am grateful for antibiotics today. Yesterday it was over the counter medicines : ) I called my doctor and he contacted the pharmacy up here and I now have the medicine I need to recover. Hooray!

"The thankful heart opens our eyes to a multitude of blessings that continually surround us." - James E. Faust

I am grateful for over the counter medicines that I can take when we are sick. I haven't been feeling well for the past two weeks and then today it all came crashing down on me. I sure appreciate the decongestants, coughing medicine, ect. that I can get to help me tolerate my condition : ) Hope I get better soon!

"Great men have always recognized the greatness of God and their dependence upon him, and they have with regularity rendered to him gratitude and thanksgiving...." - Marion G. Romney


I am grateful for my new running shoes! I have been walking and jogging with an old pair of reeboks forever always saying that I didn't want to pay the money for a good pair of shoes.
I can't believe how lightweight and comfortable they are! I didn't even have to spend anytime breaking them in : ) Many thanks to Rafa and Julie for encouraging me to go for it and taking me to an extraordinary runners shoe store!

"Gratitude is a mark of a noble soul and a refined character. We like to be around those who are grateful. They tend to brighten all around them. They make others feel better about themselves. They tend to be more humble, more joyful, more likable...." - Joseph B. Wirthlin

I am grateful for a river in my backyard : ) I spent the entire day by it (except when I had to eat!) It is so beautiful, perfect size, clear as can be, and the scenery can't be beat. I feel very blessed and give thanks for this place everyday!

"God awaits our expressions of gratefulness each morning and night in sincere, simple prayer from our hearts for our many blessings, gifts, and talents." - Robert D. Hale

I am grateful for sitting on my deck and enjoying the setting sun (and then seeing the moon rise : )
It was a pretty awesome sight!

"Where there is gratitude, there is humility, as opposed to pride" - Gordon B. Hinckley


I am grateful for books!!! I love to read and always have since I was young. I usually have at least three different books being read at one time and so many others waiting in the wings : ) There is nothing like falling into a book and being transported to another time and place!

"If ingratitude be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues" - Thomas S. Monson


I am grateful for the goals that we work towards and finally reach! They help us stretch ourselves to be a little better than we are. They give us pride in our accomplishments. We want to do more with our lives and work harder to achieve it. I appreciate having this desire to set goals and work on them!

"Wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving." - Kahlil Gibran


I am grateful for good, uplifting movies. They make you feel like improving your life. They give you feelings of happiness and joy as trials and burdens are conquered. I appreciate the opportunity I have had through the years to see some wonderful pictures!

"When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude." - G. K. Chesterton


I am grateful that I don't normally cough all day long : ) I have not been able to shake this virus that I have. I thought I had but it flared up again today. It mostly makes me cough and have laryngitis and is not fun. I sure appreciate the fact that I am usually healthy more then I am sick : )

“No duty is more urgent than that of giving thanks.” - Anonymous


I am grateful for rainbows! I had forgotten how beautiful they are. I was privileged to see two rainbows side by side a couple days ago. It was truly an awesome sight!

“Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving.” - W. T. Purkiser

I am grateful for the beauty of the mountains! Today was such a beautiful day, the majestic mountains, a perfect blue sky, and green everywhere. Spring has arrived late but it has been worth the wait. What a wonderful world it is!

“To the grateful man give more than he asks.” - Spanish saying

I missed three days of writing : ( Unfortunately I got sick (combination of a bad cold and laryngitis) and slept most of the time (except when I was with the kids and grandkids) I have to say I am most grateful for my voice : ) I have only be able to whisper the last few days and I appreciate being able to talk without coughing now and having a decent sounding voice!

One ungrateful man does an injury to all who stand in need of aid." - Pubillius Syrus

I am grateful for the happiness I see in so many people who I come in contact with everyday. It is easy to get wrapped up in our difficulties and not give a smile to others. I appreciate those people who see the happiness in every situation!

Gratitude is one of those things that cannot be bought. It must be born with men, or else all the obligations in the world will not create it." - Edward F. Halifax

I am grateful for my family, they are the greatest! It is such a special feeling to know that they care for me. I love them so much!

"Some people grumble because roses have thorns; I am thankful that the thorns have roses." -
Alphonse Karr

I have been sick with an intestinal flu the last two days so I know what I am very thankful for. That would be a peaceful happy stomach : ) It is easy for me to forget my good health until I am sick. I appreciate feeling healthy most of the time!

"Learn to appreciate what you have and where and who you are." - Wayne Dyer


I am grateful that I think of being grateful for things! I hope it doesn't sound confusing. What I mean is that I realize that I am appreciating more everyday the blessings I have, and giving thanks for that!

"Give this one day to thanks, to joy, to gratitude!" - Henry Ward Beecher


I am grateful for the cars that we have now, that for the most part have fewer mechanical problems then when I was a new driver. I remember traveling with my parents (and when I was first driving) and all the breakdowns we would have. Now when I travel we rarely have mechanical problems. They aren't perfect by any means. I just think that it is better than it used to be.

"Nothing more detestable does the earth produce than an ungrateful man." - Decimus Magnus Ausonius

I am grateful for living in a land where I can eat well. I sometimes forget that there are people all over the world who do not have enough to eat. We are truly blessed in this country to have a plentiful supply of food to prepare for our meals.

"My advice to you is not to inquire why or whither, but just enjoy your ice cream while it's on your plate." - Thornton Wilder (The Skin of our Teeth, Act 1 1942)

I am grateful for exercise : ) Every morning I walk/jog about five miles (half of it with my husband) There are times when I really look forward to it and then there are days when I have to push myself to start. I find that after wards I always feel better, so I am glad I make myself do it.

"The best thing to do with the best things in life is to give them up." - Dorothy Day


I am grateful for the Memorial Day holiday. I am glad that a day was set aside to honor those people who chose to serve in the military. Many thanks to them, the ones in the past as well as present. Many more thanks to those who never came home and gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country!

Whatever we are waiting for -- peace of mind, contentment, grace, the inner awareness of simple abundance -- it will surely come to us, but only when we are ready to receive it with an open and grateful heart." - Sarah Ban Breathnach

I am grateful for the telephone (or cell phone) : ) Can you imagine how sad it would be to not hear your loved one's voice! My grand daughter called me today so excited because she lost her first tooth. She told me all about it and I had so much fun listening to her. It wouldn't have been the same in a letter (or email : )

"Remember God's bounty in the year. String the pearls of His favor. Hide the dark parts, except so far as they are breaking out in light! Give this one day to thanks, to joy, to gratitude!" - Henry Ward Beecher

I am grateful for people who accept me and my faults and who like me as I am : ) We all have different personalities as well as what we like and dislike. I am blessed when family and friends love me anyway!

"Gratitude helps you to grow and expands; gratitude brings you and laughter into your life and into the lives of all those around you. " - Eileen Caddy

I am grateful for my aunt and uncle who are 83 years young! I visited them today and took them out to eat. My aunt is my moms only remaining sister who is still with us. She reminds me so much of my mom and I love to talk to her about all those great memories of yesterday. Such great blessings I have!

"Nothing more detestable does the earth produce than an ungrateful man." - Decimus Magnus Ausonius

I am grateful for the act of forgiveness (especially when I am the recipient ) Sometimes I know what I have done is wrong, other times I am unaware of the hurt I caused. Either way I am grateful for the forgiveness that is extended to me by those who I have offended. I am blessed by them and am humbled by their kindness.

"True thanksgiving means that we need to thank God for what He has done for us, and not to tell Him what we have done for Him. " - George R. Hendrick


I am grateful that I can be busy and accomplish many things. I just have to be careful that I don't overdue it or feel like I haven't done enough. When I appreciate what I get done and don't fret about what didn't get done I feel empowered. I know that I can look forward to the next day with confidence.

"Gratitude is the heart's memory." - Proverb

I am grateful for the small acts of service that I see all around me everyday! I have been the recipient of some of these acts but I also see them occur for others many times each day. There are so many kind people who give of themselves : ) Many thanks to them!

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to live on this beautiful and astonishing planet Earth. In the morning, I wake up with a sense of gratitude." - Earl Nightingale

I am grateful when something is finished : ) (especially after the stress that it took to finish it )
Our bathroom is now done and looks beautiful! It was stressful to work around the mess but is well worth it now : )

"Be thankful. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Thankfulness is much more dependent on attitude than circumstance. When you feel the lack of what you don't have, thank God for what you do have! At any time, there is more going right in the life of a committed Christian than there is going wrong. It's just that the wrong makes a lot more noise than the right." - Jim Stephens


We are having our guest bathroom updated. It is looking good and I am so grateful to be able to do it. The people we got to remodel are great and should have it done by tomorrow. We have only been without a second bathroom for two days. They are speedy but good! I feel so blessed to have
it : )

"Gratitude is our most direct line to God and the angels. If we take the time, no matter how crazy and troubled we feel, we can find something to be thankful for. The more we seek gratitude, the more reason the angels will give us for gratitude and joy to exist in our lives." - Terry Lynn Taylor



I am grateful for birthday celebrations! Today was Chris' birthday and we enjoyed the day together. We went to the beach and ate dinner next to the pier at Duke's restaurant. So much fun!

"Gratitude is a twofold love -- love coming to visit us, and love running out to greet a welcome guest." - Henry Van Dyke

I am grateful to go out to the movies. It is fun to sit in a movie theater and watch the "big screen!" Some pictures are just better to watch in the dark. (with a bag of popcorn : )

" I hate ingratitude more in a person; than lying, vainness, babbling, drunkenness, or, any taint of vice whose strong corruption inhabits our frail blood." Twelfth Night - William Shakespeare


I am grateful for the close relationship I have with my heavenly father. I find it easy to talk to him in conversations as well as prayer. I am blessed by the constant love he gives me and I know that he cares for my well being in a personal way : )

"Ingratitude is treason to mankind. " - James Thomson


I enjoy reading about the local history where I live (or visit) It makes me appreciate the area around me and I learn so many interesting things. I think it makes regular history more personal and intriguing. It is like stepping back in time for a short while to see what was going on around you!

"God has two dwellings; one in heaven, and the other in a meek and thankful heart." - Izaak Walton


I am grateful for grown children who consider it important to be the best parents they can be! They feel just like I did when I was a young parent, we were so unsure and wanted to do the best we could. They strive to do their best and it shows with my grandchildren. I am so blessed that they are my children : )

No longer forward nor behind
I look in hope or fear;
But, grateful, take the good I find,
The best of now and here. - John Greenleaf Whittier


I am grateful for having enough money to enjoy life. I know that money is not everything but it is nice not to have to worry about paying the bills. I am blessed to have enough to take care of my needs and a little to have fun with. I appreciate this blessing!

"My advice to you is not to inquire why or whither, but just enjoy your ice cream while it's on your plate" - Thornton Wilder

I love to laugh! (remember Mary Poppins!) and I am grateful when I get the chance to be goofy. When I get started it is hard to stop but it makes me feel so good inside. I think it is true that laughter is the best medicine!

"Gratitude is not only the memory but the homage of the heart rendered to God for his goodness." Nathaniel P. Willis

I am grateful for the gift to persevere. I don't always finish the "race" but more times than not I actually do achieve my goal. It gives me a great feeling when I do!

"Our favorite attitude should be gratitude." - Zig Ziglar


I am grateful for the power of prayer in my life. I feel blessed that my prayers are answered so frequently. I know that I am loved by my heavenly father and he is always mindful of me. How thankful I am for this knowledge.

"Eaten bread is soon forgotten. " - Thomas Fuller


I am grateful for the modern conveniences that we have! There are too many to count but I appreciate them all : ) Some favorites are central air conditioning ( I don't know how I survived in So Cal before that) and microwave ovens (how did I ever cook some things? ) I do appreciate all of the things that we sometimes take for granted. : )

"Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; but remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for." Epicurus


I am grateful for giving service to others. By helping others in need I tend to forget my trials and difficulties. I appreciate the blessings that I have and hope to help others to recognize the blessings that they still have in their life.

Let's choose today to quench our thirst for the good life we thinks others lead by acknowledging the good that already exists in our lives. We can then offer the universe the gift of our grateful hearts. " - Sarah Ban Breathnach

My gratitude today is for friends who willingly help me to learn something new. They give of their time and expertise to teach me some technique that I do not know. It is always generously given and I appreciate their love and kindness!

"Gratitude helps you to grow and expands; gratitude brings you and laughter into your life and into the lives of all those around you." - Eileen Caddy


I am grateful for spring days spent in the park, which is just what I did today : ) The weather was picture perfect, sunny but not too hot, and a little breeze. I was doing what I love, making lace! And it was spent at a cute little park in uptown Whittier on their birthday. I appreciate the little things that come my way along with the big ones!

"Whatever I am offered in devotion with a pure heart -- a leaf, a flower, fruit, or water -- I accept with joy." - Bhagavad Gita

I am grateful for my mom and dad! They did so much for me when I was a child and probably spoiled me a little too much : ) I know that they expected me to be a good person and I have always tried to be that for them. They have been gone now for nine years but I still think of them when I have decisions to make. I think we all want our parents to be proud of the person that we have become. I know that I was richly blessed by their love and support!

Gratitude is the heart's memory. - Proverb


I am grateful for the help I receive when I need it. It comes from friends, acquaintances, and total strangers! I truly am blessed by so many people who go out of their way to help and guide me along my human journey : )

"I had the blues
because I had no shoes
until upon the street,
I met a man who had no feet." - Anonymous


I am grateful for all types of four legged friends, that help lift us up and give us so much joy in life. They give us unconditional love as well as some crazy times but we love it!

"I would thank you from the bottom of my heart, but for you my heart has no bottom." - Anonymous

I appreciate having a good doctor that tries to help me when I am ill and wants me to stay healthy. I visited him today so he could check my hand and wrist, which have been bothering me lately. I have to rest my hand more and wear an arm brace when I am working on my projects or typing on the computer. Hopefully it will not get any worse then that. I am blessed to have my doctor.

"We count our miseries carefully, and accept our blessings without much thought." - Chinese Proverb

I am grateful for the gift of wisdom. It has helped me through some situations that could have been difficult if not for this gift. If I follow my own advice (after I think things over carefully) I am always blessed.

"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." - Thomas S. Monson

I just watched a DVD tonight called the "Passion of the Marathon." It told about several different people who were preparing for the Chicago Marathon and what drove their passion to run. I have to say that I am grateful for uplifting entertainment that motivates us to improve our life.

"Both abundance and lack exist simultaneously in our lives, as parallel realities. It is always our conscious choice which secret garden we will tend... when we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that's present -- love, health, family, friends, work, the joys of nature and personal pursuits that bring us pleasure -- the wasteland of illusion falls away and we experience Heaven on earth." --Sarah Ban Breathnach

I am grateful for the serendipity that occurs to us every now and then : ) I have been at a heavily attended conference/convention this week with over 2000 people in attendance. I stepped into one class with close to 200 people trying to find seats. I found an empty one and asked the lady sitting in the next seat if it was taken. She looked so familar to me. We started talking and realized that we knew each from the same church group years ago. How good are the chances that I would end up in the same class as her and sitting next to her? Amazing!

"Feeling grateful or appreciative of someone or something in your life actually attracts more of the things that you appreciate or value into your life." -- Christiane Northrup

I am grateful for an appreciation of history, especially America's history. Our country has an amazing story to tell that more people need to know about. If I could have a wish it would be that everyone who lives in the United States would appreciate and love this country and study its history.

"Now I know we had no money, but I was rich as I could be, in that coat of many colors, my Momma made for me." -- Dolly Parton

I have been having a difficult time keeping up with my gratitude blog this week. I have been participating in a national convention for genealogical research since Monday. The days start early in the morning and end late at night. I have been exhausted by the end of the day so missed some of my blog entries. I will write an entry tonight before I collapse into bed : )
I am grateful to go to conferences such as this one. The classes are excellent and help to build on the skills that I need to find my ancestors. It has been well worth the effort to attend!

"Even though I clutch my blanket and growl when the alarm rings each morning, thank-you, Lord, that I can hear. There are many who are deaf." -- prayer

I am grateful for my ancestors! As I do more family history research I realize how much they did for me before I ever arrived : ) They showed courage and strength during difficult times and left a legacy that I am blessed to be a part of!

"I murmured that I had no shoes, until I met a man who had no feet." -- Persian Proverb


I am grateful when I am surrounded by family. I don't always have that opportunity since they do not live close by so when the big events in our life happen (birthdays, holidays...) I cherish them. I appreciate being able to be together with my family!

"Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all" --William Faulkner


I am grateful for my good heath. I feel very blessed to be well most of the time! I too often complain (alot : ) when I am sick or hurting when I should appreciate how often I am doing well. I hope to improve my attitude and always be grateful for my health.

"There are no mistakes, no coincidences. All events are blessings given to us to learn from." --Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

I am grateful for the hugs and kisses of my grandchildren! They are so genuine in their love. I am truly blessed by having them in my life.

"You have no cause for anything but gratitude and joy." --The Buddha

I am grateful for the unconditional love that we get from our pets. They love us just as we are! They find their way into our hearts and fill them with love. What a blessing it is to have them in our families : )

"Whenever we are appreciative, we are filled with a sense of well-being and swept up by the feeling of joy." --M.J. Ryan

I am grateful for the joy I feel when I experience nature. The beauty of the trees and flowers, grass and meadows. It nurtures my soul : )

"Gratitude is when memory is stored in the heart and not in the mind." --Sam N. Hampton


I am grateful to have an awesome sister! We have been through a lot together and keep each other strong. She is also a good friend. I appreciate and love her so much!

"In our daily lives, we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but the gratefulness that makes us happy. " -- Albert Clarke

I am grateful for my son-in-law Rafael who ran and finished his first marathon today! He participated in the Salt Lake City marathon which started from the University of Utah and finished at the Gateway Mall. All of my children and grandchildren were there to see him finish. I am so blessed to have such great kids (and their spouses : )

"O Lord, who lends me life, lend me a heart replete with thankfulness. " -- William Shakespeare

We went to the Oregon Zoo today. I love to see all of the animals! I am so grateful for the many kinds of animals there are on our world. They make everything so interesting and fun (even the unusual ones : ) Taking in the majesty of a huge tiger or the antics of the chimpanzee is such a blessing!

"I thank God for my handicaps for, through them, I have found myself, my work, and my God." --Helen Keller

I am grateful for the quote above by Helen Keller. It is true that our handicaps, adversity, trials ect., will help us to find out who we really are if we let them. We will also learn more about God and what work he has for us to do. I do not like to have hardship but if you look at it with the perspective of gratitude you do find yourself. You become a changed person.

"Gratitude is born in hearts that take time to count up past mercies." - Charles E. Jefferson


I am grateful when a person is responsible and follows through with their commitments. My parents felt very strong about this value and taught it to my sister and myself. We had to finish what we started and do it well. I appreciate that they did this and tried to do the same with my children.

"Don't pray when it rains if you don't pray when the sun shines. "--Leroy (Satchel) Paige

I love spring! Everything is so clean and fresh and colorful! I am so grateful for all the beauty that goes along with it : )

"Life is a paradise for those who love many things with a passion." --Leo Buscaglia

I am grateful for Netflix! Any movie that I could ever want to see (from the beginning of movie making until now) I can rent from them. It is a mindless pleasure I know but still fun!

"Life is a paradise for those who love many things with a passion." --Leo Buscaglia

I've been incognito for the past week but am finally back! I have been having major pain in my hands and wrists and decided I needed to stay off the computer as well as my other hobbies for awhile. I just started back today and am still hurting. Looks like I will have to head to my doctor soon. I have to say what I am most grateful for is what I don't have right now, pain free hands and arms : )

The best way to pay for a lovely moment is to enjoy it --Richard Bach


I am grateful for my home and a cozy bed to curl up on (and read : )

The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude --Friedrich Nietzsche

Today is Easter and my gratitude is for Jesus Christ and what he did for me!

"For me, giving thanks is a sign of appreciation and gratitude that also brings about a deep sense of peace." - Wally Amos

I am grateful for the kindness that is shown to me, especially when I least deserve it. Many thanks to my wonderful husband who cares so much!

"Though I am grateful for the blessings of wealth, it hasn't changed who I am. My feet are still on the ground. I'm just wearing better shoes. " - Oprah Winfrey

I am grateful for good music! I love to listen to my favorite mix of songs on my ipod. They bring back so many memories : ) Music also touches my soul and brings me closer to the spirit. It is an important blessing in my life.

"Gratitude is a fruit of great cultivation; you do not find it among gross people." - Samuel Johnson


I am grateful when I look for the good in every situation. I admit that I don't always see it but when I do I can see a "silver lining" in the individual storm clouds of life. I guess I think of the "good" being the shelter that we find after we have been out in the rain. It may only shelter us for a short time but helps us to dry out and then continue on. Recognizing that good in any situation helps to strengthen our gratitude.

"Thanks are justly due for things got without purchase." - Ovid

I am grateful for my good health! Except for some small things I am still doing well and feel blessed that I am healthy.

"Unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath." - Bible


I am grateful for my ancestors especially my grandparents. I did not know them, they passed away before I was born, but I feel their spirit and guiding help. They had difficult lives but did well raising their children. I look up to them and feel blessed to be in their family.

"We seldom find people ungrateful so long as it is thought we can serve them. " - Francois De La
Rochefoucauld

I am grateful for being alive. Experiencing life everyday and looking at everything through the glasses of gratitude is amazing. I notice so much more than I used to. I appreciate my life so much!

"If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and a man. " - Mark Twain


I am grateful when I run into friends, that I have not seen for a long time, and find out that they are still committed to their ideals and faith. Even though we may have been separated by miles and years we are still close in our beliefs. Many thanks to them for the strength they give me!

"He that has satisfied his thirst turns his back on the well." - Balthasar Gracian


I don't want to take anything for granted in my life. I am so grateful for what I have been given and I hope I will always remember that. It is easy to get caught up in the day to day living and forget all the blessings we have (the small ones as well as the big ones!)

"Two kinds of gratitude: The sudden kind we feel for what we take; the larger kind we feel for what we give." - Edwin Arlington Robinson

I am grateful for the feeling of accomplishment I get when I finish a project (whatever it may be) I can cross it off my to do list and move on. It makes me feel like I can do anything and gives me the incentive to continue and finish more in my life.

"There is as much greatness of mind in acknowledging a good turn, as in doing it. " - Seneca

I am grateful when I have peace of mind. It is something that does not come easily to me and I can get so wrapped up in the problems of the world as well as my own personal problems. I have to work on having that peace but when I get it life becomes a positive experience.

"Gratitude is one of those things that cannot be bought. It must be born with men, or else all the obligations in the world will not create it. " - Lord Halifax


I am grateful that even when everything seems to be changing all around you there can still be things that stay the same. I visited my aunt and uncle today. They have lived in their home for over 50 years and still have it the same as when I was a child. They also live their lives much the same way as they did those many years ago, caring, responsible, loving happy people. When I step into their home I journey back in time. I feel my parents presence all around me. I truly love being there!

"I've heard of hearts unkind, kind deeds With coldness still returning; Alas! the gratitude of men Hath often left me mourning. " - William Wordsworth


I am grateful for a set of ideals that I try to strive for. There will always be others that are watching us silently to see what we believe and how we act. Something we do that may seem insignificant to us might make a lasting impression on them. I hope that I can continue to live up to the ideals that I strive for.

"Gratitude is the memory of the heart." - Jean Baptiste Massieu


I am grateful that I have come to realize the importance of enjoying the "journey" and not waiting for the "destination" to determine my happiness in life. So many wonderful things have happened on this journey I started at birth and I want to continue to appreciate them. I don't want to think that the final destination is the only important thing. Everyday is a journey that I am blessed to participate in!

"There is only one thing that can form a bond between men, and that is gratitude... we cannot give someone else greater power over us than we have ourselves. " - Charles De Secondat


I am grateful for gentle reminders of my mom. At church today we had several visitors in the church women's group and one of them had a replica of the same bible cover that my mom used. I had never seen anyone up to today that had that same one. I felt as if my mom was saying Hi to me and letting me know everything is alright : ) It felt so good!

"Gratitude isn't a burdening emotion." - Loretta Young

I am grateful for our church women's organization, the Relief Society, and all the service they do for others. My life as well as many others has been blessed by this group in both difficult and joyous occasions. The women there are truly my "sisters" and I appreciate them so much!

"Gratitude is not only the memory but the homage of the heart rendered to God for his goodness."
Nathaniel Parker Willis

I am grateful for quiet times to ponder and reflect on my life. Sometimes life is too busy and crazy. Today I had one of those opportunities to meditate and I appreciate it!

"A man's indebtedness is not virtue; his repayment is. Virtue begins when he dedicates himself actively to the job of gratitude. " - Ruth Benedict

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve others. I spent part of today helping a friend unpack after moving. This move was very hard on her, as they lost their home of over 30 years due to financial problems. She needed emotional help as well as physical and I hope that I contributed to that in a small way. When I serve others it blesses me : )

"No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude." - Alfred North Whitehead


I am grateful for prayers offered in my behalf, many times without my knowledge. I am very blessed and strengthened by these prayers. They cloak me with a feeling of protection and peace.
Many thanks to family and friends who care for me enough to keep me on their prayer rolls : )

"Gratitude to gratitude always gives birth. " - Sophocles


I just got back late and missed my deadline for my gratitude blog : ( Oh well, I will do two for March 17 (one now and one at night) Since it is officially St. Patricks Day I want to say that I am grateful for the celebration of this holiday! I am part Irish and sure have it in my blood! I love to make corned beef and cabbage, green dip, and green cookies : ) Some holidays are too fun to miss and I do appreciate having them!

"We need to thank all of our troops, and particularly those for whom we can never express enough gratitude for they have given their lives so that all of us may be free and that our democracy can be a shining light for the rest of the world. " - Virgil Goode

I am very grateful that I am keeping a blog of my family and what we are doing. It can be tiring sometimes but I know that future generations will appreciate seeing and reading what we were doing in the Kingsley family. (and most of the time I enjoy making it : )

"We players understand we have the best lives in the world. We owe a debt of gratitude to all our fans, everyone who supports us. " - Bruce Bowen

I am grateful for kisses, hugs, and "I love you, grandma" from my grandkids : ) They are so genuine when they give their affection and they truly mean what they say. What a warm, wonderful feeling it is to know that I am loved no matter what by these small precious people!

"We hope that, when the insects take over the world, they will remember with gratitude how we took them along on all our picnics." - Bill Vaughan


I am grateful for time to play! Chris and I are in Utah for our grandson Zachary's 3rd birthday and did we have fun! There is a pirate/pizza place (a lot like Chucky Cheese) with games and rides and that is where my daughter had Zac's big party. Everything there is based on a pirate theme and that is Zac's big thing right now. All the family joined in and we had a great time. I appreciate that time to laugh and play : )

"These are hallowed moments, when every American has reason to express his gratitude to Almighty God that it has been our good fortune to witness the light of this auspicious morn." -
Nelson A. Miles


I am so grateful for the care and concern people show to me. I am blessed to be surrounded by friends and family who are always watching out for me. This includes those who do not live nearby, as they show their love by internet or phone : ) I love all of them and appreciate everything they do!

"When someone saves your life and gives you life, there's gratitude, humility; there's a time you've been so blessed you realize you've been given another chance at life that maybe you did or didn't deserve." - Pat Summerall

I am grateful that I take a stand for something I believe in. I used to be quiet and not speak when a controversial subject came up. I now express my opinion quietly but with conviction. I don't feel that emotions should take over and a subject should turn into a yelling match. We all have feelings that make us who we are and we should be treated with respect. When I express my opinion I know it helps me to be a stronger person .

"When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude. " - Gilbert K. Chesterton

I am grateful that I can walk without any problems. I usually walk 3 miles every morning and have taken it for granted. I realize that I am blessed to be able to walk easily and use it as a form of exercise. I enjoy doing it because it gives me a chance to spend time outside and it helps me get a good start for the day. I appreciate being able to walk : )

"We feel an enormous sense of gratitude towards the American people. " - Jean Pierre Raffarin


I am grateful for Itunes : ) It is really fun to be able to get my favorite songs and mix them together in my own CD. I have been amazed at how many songs I have been able to find!
Maybe this is not as important as my health, happiness, ect., but I sure appreciate it anyway : )

"The willingness of America's veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude." - Jeff Miller


I am grateful that I feel compassion for other people. If I stay in tune with my feelings and try to connect with another person I can feel their pain. There is so much suffering around us everyday but we can help. We need to really listen to those in sorrow and the compassion will follow.

"The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude." - Freidrich Nietzsche


I am grateful that I have to struggle sometimes to try to be better. Whether it is a character trait or learning a new skill I know that challenges pertaining to it will help me to grow. When I achieve my goal it will mean much more to me if I have to work at it.

"Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude. Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words. Gratitude is shown in acts." - Henri Frederic Amiel

I am grateful for the birds that come visit in our backyard. I have feeders hanging up on our shade shelter with different kinds of bird seed to attract all types of birds. I love to look out the back window and watch their antics. We even have a trio of woodpeckers who clown around as they are eating : ) It is great fun!

"One can never pay in gratitude: one can only pay 'in kind' somewhere else in life." - Anne Morrow Lindbergh

I am grateful that I want to keep trying! When I lose my temper, become impatient, or make any mistake I still want to try again. It is important to me to work on improving my character even when I do stumble. I am blessed when I try again (and again : )

"No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude." - Alfred North Whitehead

I am grateful for my fourth grand child and third grandson, Luke. He and his cousin Tyson were born about five weeks apart and it has been so fun to see them grow together. "Little Luke" as he is called is now seven months old and so much fun. He likes to shriek and say ma ma . He likes to study every person he meets and then all of a sudden give them a big smile. I am so grateful that he is part of my life!

"If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans." - James Herriot


I am grateful for my third grandchild and second grandson, Tyson. We like to call him Ty, Ty : ) He is almost nine months old and is growing so fast! Tyson has always had such an amazing smile. Whatever is happening he is always smiling! It is so special and everyone wants to smile with him.
He has a sweet personality and adores his big brother Zachary. I am so blessed to have him in my life!

"I feel, as never before, how justly, from the dawn of history to the present time, men have paid the homage of their gratitude and admiration to the memory of those who nobly sacrifice their lives, that their fellow-men may live in safety and in honor" - Edward Everett


I am grateful for my second grandchild and first grandson, Zachary! He will be turning three years old next week. Zachary is a very loving, sweet spirit and is so excited with dinosaurs and pirates.
He adores his baby brother and likes to help his mother around the house. I can't believe how old he is, I still remember when he was a baby. What a blessing he is in my life : )

"Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude." - Denis Waitley


I am grateful for my oldest grandchild and only grand daughter Marielle! She is so talented as an artist and violinist. She has a special spirit, and is always so enthusiastic about everything. I love to talk to her on the phone and miss her when I can't visit . I am blessed that she my grand daughter!

"Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." -
Melody Beattie

I am grateful for my middle child! She recently had her first baby and is so excited about every thing he is doing. I am amazed at how she easily she has slipped into motherhood. When I had my first child I was so worried about everything! That doesn't seem to be the case with her. I appreciate being her mom and watching her be a new mom : )

"Gratitude is when memory is stored in the heart and not in the mind." - Lionel Hampton


I am grateful for all of the comforts that I take for granted. I am blessed with transportation, food, and shelter that are far superior to many people in the world. I do appreciate this, though at times I forget how blessed I really am. Then I see the difficulties others face and pray for forgiveness.
Many thanks for all that I have!

"Gratitude is not only the memory but the homage of the heart rendered to God for his goodness."
Nathaniel Parker Willis


I love rivers! The beauty, power, sound, feel, everything about them. I feel so blessed to be able to spend many moments by one particular river (my Washougal ) as well as seeing others during my travels. They bring me so much peace and happiness : )

"Christ himself wrote nothing, but furnished endless material for books and songs of gratitude and praise." - Phillip Schaff

I am grateful for the Olympics! I love to watch all the events and root for my favorite individual or team. I especially love the figure skating and have ever since I was in high school watching Peggy Fleming win the gold medal : ) I admire the perseverance and hard work that all the athletes have and feel blessed by their courage even when their event doesn't turn out as they planned. They always try to do their best.
Best of luck to all the Olympic participants!

"Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world." - John Milton


I am grateful for the awesome beauty of this country that I live in! There are so many places to visit in America that are totally amazing. I have been blessed to be able to visit almost all of the national parks and almost every state in the union. I feel very humble and so grateful for that opportunity : )

"I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder." - G.K. Chesterton

I am grateful for the happiness that I have seen today in others. Everyone I happened to meet greeted me with a smile and kind greetings. What a wonderful way to enjoy a day!

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God."
-The Bible Phil 4:6 NKJV

I am grateful for the little things that I pray about that get answered. I appreciate them as much as the big prayers. I am blessed by everyone that is answered, and there have been many. Today two small prayers were answered to add to my countless others!

"Feeling grateful or appreciative of someone or something in your life actually attracts more of the things that you appreciate and value into your life." -Christiane Northrup

I am very grateful to live in a free country where I have the opportunity to choose my own path in life. I am so appreciative that I can live where I want, travel wherever I can, and speak out about what I believe in. What a blessing it is to live in America!

"Reflect Each Day On All You Have To Be Grateful For And
You Will Receive More To Be Grateful For." -Chuck Danes


I am grateful for this blog that helps me to remember what blessings I have every day!
By writing down what I appreciate each day I tend to think of what is right with my life and not what is wrong : )

"Go to foreign countries and you will get to know the good things one possesses at home." - Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe


I am grateful for all the teachers that I have had throughout my life. I have learned so much from them! I appreciate all that I have been taught and feel blessed to have had their help.

Given the amount of unjust suffering and unhappiness in the world, I am deeply grateful for, sometimes even perplexed by, how much misery I have been spared.” - Dennis Prager


I feel very blessed today for answered prayers. My daughter and I had been praying for help for a difficult situation in her life and our prayers were answered. I am so grateful for the power of prayer !

“Ingratitude is monstrous" - William Shakespeare


I am grateful that I committed myself to writing this blog for the year. I never want to feel ungrateful and by being committed I tend to think about what I am grateful for during the day. If I start feeling sorry for myself I make myself remember what blessings there are in my life. : )

“Gratitude preserves old friendships, and procures new.”

I am grateful for days that I can relax and rest! I really needed that today after a full weekend of lace conference. I stayed up way too late and pushed myself too much. Today I was able to rest and it felt good.

“Gratitude changes the pangs of memory into a tranquil joy” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer


I am grateful for small acts of kindness. Whenever I try to be kind all through the day I appreciate my life so much more. I feel so blessed that many of the people who are part of my life are so very kind!

“No one is as capable of gratitude as one who has emerged from the kingdom of night.” - Elie Weisel

The quote that I decided to put on my gratitude blog has a lot to do with what I am grateful for today. I have had some extreme "kingdoms of night" but I emerged from them with more empathy and gratitude then before. I think that we appreciate what we are grateful for more when we are refined in the fire of adversity.

“Gratitude is a vaccine, an antitoxin, and an antiseptic” - John Henry Jowett


I am grateful for enthusiasm! It is so great to feel excited! I was in class today learning a new lace and was so jazzed to be there. Everyone else in the room was also caught up in the experience : )
It was a perfect day!

“Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.” - Marcus Tillius Cicero

I am grateful for the talent I have of making lace. I just started a lace conference today that continues through the weekend. I spent all of today trying to finish off a very large project and almost got it all done. Only a little more to do! I love this craft (even though most of my friends think I am either crazy, or extremely patient, or both : ) It totally has me hooked! I have had to work hard on it for many years to finally feel like I am possibly now an intermediate lacemaker, but I am still proud of that : )

“Gratitude is the most exquisite form of courtesy" - Jacques Maritain

I am grateful for my youngest child "my baby!" She is always interested in what I am doing and how I am feeling. I love to talk to her and hear all the news about my grandsons : ) She is a wonderful mom too! I am blessed to have her be part of my life : )

“Gratitude is the sign of noble souls” - Aesop's Fables

I am grateful for my extended family. My uncles and aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews ect. ect.
I am so glad they are part of my life!

“Gratitude helps you to grow and expand; gratitude brings joy and laughter into your life and into the lives of all those around you.” - Eileen Caddy


I am grateful that my family and friends are always concerned about me. I know that they are genuine in their concern and it shows. I am so blessed that there are so many people who care!

“Gratitude is the memory of the heart.” - French Proverb


I went to see a movie this afternoon called "Extraordinary Measures." After seeing it I have to say that I am very grateful that my three children were healthy and had no life threatening illnesses!
It told the story of a family where two of their children had a form of Muscular Dystrophy called Pompe. The survival rate was up to nine years old, with most dying by that age. Through the help of a doctor a new drug was created and it has helped their children to keep going and thrive. It was quite heart wrenching to watch it.
I have been blessed to have children with no major health issues and I am so grateful!

“Gratitude is when memory is stored in the heart and not in the mind." - Lionel Hampton


I am grateful to be able to share in people's difficulty and pain. Empathy was not a character trait that came easily for me until my parents passed away. Now I seem to feel a persons sorrow even if the trial they are having is not something I have experienced. I feel blessed to have this trait. I hope that I can be of some comfort to those who need it and am so grateful to those friends who showed me empathy throughout my life.

“Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone.”

I don't know how I did it but I missed a day! Oh well.......
I am grateful that I can forgive myself for non-perfection in my life : ) I still enjoy showing my gratitude for everyday and will continue as best I can. I appreciate my acceptance of myself and my limitations!

“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”


I have been blessed with a desire to always keep learning. I want to continue to gain more knowledge and hope to always cherish the intelligence that I possess now. I love the excitement that I feel when I learn something new!

“Wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving." - Kahlil Gibran

I am so grateful for my sight. To be able to see all the beauty around me is a tremendous blessing as well as being able to do all the hobbies that I love so much!

“When you are grateful fear disappears and abundance appears” - Anthony Robbins


I am grateful for our first flower that bloomed today! I have all kinds of bulbs planted around our eucalyptus trees and the daffodils are always the first to bloom. I didn't realize that they were so close to opening until I looked out the window. I almost missed the first one! We have tulips, iris, daffodils and crocus that explode with color every spring. It never ceases to amaze me when they appear every year. I feel so blessed to see this beauty from God.

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” - William Arthur Ward

I am grateful for waterfalls! Anytime we are traveling and I find out there is a waterfall nearby I have to see it. Standing close to them makes my heart soar! There is so much majesty and power you can feel as you are near them. It always seems to restore my soul after visiting one. My favorites are Multnomah Falls in the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon and all of the falls in Yosemite Valley (Bridal Veil Falls, Yosemite Falls) in California. I am blessed every time I am able to see one : )

Thou hast given so much to me,
Give one thing more, - a grateful heart;
Not thankful when it pleaseth me,
As if Thy blessings had spare days,
But such a heart whose pulse may be Thy praise.
~George Herbert

I am grateful for a son that is so talented in the computer department! I had a problem with my email program and he went online, connected up to my computer, and fixed the problem today.(probably took him five minutes) It is a real blessing to have his help. Thanks, Mike!

Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don't unravel. ~Author Unknown


I am grateful for very old friends (I don't mean old in years : ) that I have lost contact with but recently found. I have reconnected with several friends from my high school, and young married years and it is wonderful to talk with them again. We have all gotten older but that's okay. They bring back memories of all the crazy fun times we had and it is hard to believe so many years have passed by. I am blessed by all of them!

The unthankful heart... discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings! ~Henry Ward Beecher

I am grateful today for eulogies at funerals that help me to remember a wonderful life. Chris and I went to the funeral of a friend and co-worker who passed away at the age of 98! Benny led a fulfilling life and was honored by family and friends. What a blessing it is to give thanks for a life well lived.

When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep? ~George Canning

I am grateful for my memories of my parents. I ate lunch with a dear friend today and we got to talking about the little things that we liked about our mom's. We each got a little weepy but enjoyed so much our trip down memory lane. I am blessed with a good memory and appreciate being able to remember these times.

Grow flowers of gratitude in the soil of prayer - Verbena Woods

I am grateful for my husband! He is always concerned for my welfare and encourages me to try new things. He also takes care of so many tasks that need to be done everyday, which helps me so much. I know that he loves our children and grandchildren and would do anything for them.
I am blessed that he is a part of my life!

Thanks are justly due for boons unbought. ~Ovid


I am grateful for courage to try something new. I went to a drawing/art class today after much fear and trepidation. I have always admired my father-in-law's talent as a watercolor artist. Then I found out from my aunt that my mother used to also draw and paint in her youth. I decided to take that step and start my drawing career. I was blessed with a gracious and helpful teacher and new friends to encourage me on my first day of class. I'm so glad that I took that first step.

Most human beings have an almost infinite capacity for taking things for granted. ~Aldous Huxley


I am grateful to be able to walk, dance, run! It is so easy to take the ability to move around for granted. I am truly blessed to have the full use of my body to do whatever I want and that is a precious gift!

Who does not thank for little will not thank for much. ~Estonian Proverb

I am grateful for the feeling of peace in my life. I know that there are many things to worry about both in the world and in my personal life, but I am blessed to have the peace to know that everything will be fine. I am so thankful for this knowledge.

Courtesies of a small and trivial character are the ones which strike deepest in the grateful and appreciating heart. ~Henry Clay

I am grateful for the beautiful blue sky and white clouds that were part of this wonderful day.
I loved looking up above me on such a glorious afternoon! Everything looks so clean and pure after all the rain. I am truly blessed : )

There is not a more pleasing exercise of the mind than gratitude. It is accompanied with such an inward satisfaction that the duty is sufficiently rewarded by the performance. ~Joseph Addison

I am grateful for the trust that friends and family members have in me. To share and confide hardships to anyone can be a difficult situation. I appreciate the fact that they feel they can share their feelings with me, and I will try my best to keep that trust.

I feel a very unusual sensation - if it is not indigestion, I think it must be gratitude. ~Benjamin Disraeli


I think hail looks so cool! We have had very unsettled weather in Southern California with many days of rain, wind, lightning, and hail! So my appreciation today is for the hail. We so rarely have weather like this and the tiny, little round balls of ice are so fun. Of course I am glad that they are not large round balls of ice. That would not be kind to my mini cooper : )

If you want to turn your life around, try thankfulness. It will change your life mightily. ~Gerald Good

I am grateful for feeling hope in my life. Sometimes the difficulties that I am going through seem so hard but then I think of the power of hope. It helps me to carry on through the adversity that we all have at one time or another. I am blessed to have that hope that helps me to carry on.

What a miserable thing life is: you're living in clover, only the clover isn't good enough. ~Bertolt Brecht, Jungle of Cities, 1924

My gratitude today is for my eyesight. I had an eye doctor appointment today and it looks like I might have to have cataract surgery in my left eye next year. After I was done with my appointment, I realized how blessed I was to be able to see (even though it is with thick lensed glasses) and I gave thanks that there are modern medical advances that can give me that peace of mind.

Gratitude is the best attitude. ~Author Unknown


I was certainly grateful today for having a cozy warm house to stay inside, while So Cal was battered by pouring rain and high winds. They started last night but got increasingly worse when the morning came around. Curling up with a good book, computer, or craft project was most enjoyable : )

Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all. ~William Faulkner

I am grateful for being a Christian and the belief I have in my savior, Jesus Christ. I am blessed with the peace and assurance that when I die I will be resurrected and live with him again!

If you count all your assets, you always show a profit. ~Robert Quillen


I am grateful for the lace guild meetings that I go to every month. It is fun to get together with people who have my same interest, the creation of beautiful lace. There is always a lot of laughter and interesting conversation. We care about each other as well as what we do for a hobby. It is a blessing to be involved and to be able to help and I appreciate the time I spend with my lace friends.

Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving. ~W.T. Purkiser

I am blessed with a very special father-in-law. He is really talented and is also very kind to me. He has painted many pictures over the years and I admire his artistic skill. I am thankful that I became a part of his family so long ago!

For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson


I am thankful for the way the house looks after I work at cleaning it up : ) I have a hard time expressing gratitude for housework but I do love the feeling I have after it is all done. Everything looks so good! So I would have to say I am blessed by it!

The unthankful heart... discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings! ~Henry Ward Beecher

I have to say (after having to run errands most of the day) that I am grateful to have a reliable car! (and I am especially blessed to have a mini cooper : ) What a great car she is and trouble free. (cute too : ) Molly Mini is now six years old and still going strong, and I sure appreciate that!

I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder. ~G.K. Chesterton


I am grateful that I can sit and daydream in a quiet house. Not that I want to do it all the time only that I can when I want to. I remember that was something I really missed when I was a young mother : ) What a blessing peace and quiet can be!

Praise the bridge that carried you over. ~George Colman


I am grateful that I have rules that I need to follow in order to avoid the consequences that can come when they are broken. I would feel like I was floundering in the ocean with no way to reach shore without them. I am blessed with confidence and peace when I am obedient to the standards I have set for myself.

As each day comes to us refreshed and anew, so does my gratitude renew itself daily. The breaking of the sun over the horizon is my grateful heart dawning upon a blessed world. ~Adabella Radici

I am grateful for my faith in a loving god. I know that he is there watching over me and looks out for my welfare. I am blessed everyday by his spirit and appreciate the fact that I have a firm belief. What a strength it has been for me all through my life!

If you have lived, take thankfully the past. ~John Dryden


I am thankful for the many birds that visit our backyard all year round. I love to put up bird feeders filled with the different seeds so I can see all kinds of birds. Since I just got back home I spent a few minutes this morning filling up the feeders as well as the hummingbird nectar. I feel blessed when I hear the birds singing and appreciate their antics on my patio. It is one of my small pleasures : )

Gratitude is the memory of the heart. ~Jean Baptiste Massieu, translated from French


I discovered Hulu today (an on-line tv and movie website) I found some of my favorite old TV shows and watched several of them. Its so amazing that I can see so many of them from the time I was a child through today. I am grateful for being able to watch these shows some of which I have not seen for years! Such fun!

Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone. ~G.B. Stern

My sister is on my list of top blessings that I have in my life. It is just her and I now since our parents have past on. We are completely different personalities and do not look alike either. What we have in common is faith, courage, and tenacity that molded our life, as we faced trials and adversity. I appreciate her more than I can say. Love ya, Sis!

"God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say "thank you?" ~William A. Ward

I am grateful for the good manners of strangers. There are days when I bemoan the demise of manners and then I am surprised by wonderful people who keep it alive. I witnessed it today as a recipient and spectator, small acts of graciousness that touched my heart. I am truly thankful for this kindness.

"Kindness trumps greed: it asks for sharing. Kindness trumps fear: it calls forth gratefulness and love. Kindness trumps even stupidity, for with sharing and love, one learns." - Marc Estrin


I consider myself pretty blessed when it comes to my grandchildren. They are all super special and such a joy to be with. I appreciate being able to spend time with them (even though it might not be as much as some grandparents have) They all have different personalities and that is what makes it so much fun. I never want to get over that feeling I get every time I get a hug and kiss (from the older ones) and smiles (from the babies)

"Gratefulness is the key to a happy life that we hold in our hands, because if we are not grateful, then no matter how much we have we will not be happy -- because we will always want to have something else or something more." - David Steindl-Rast


I am grateful that I have the desire to follow through with any commitment I make to others. My parents instilled this in me when I was young. They told me "If you tell a person that you are going to do something then you do it." I have had my share of times when I didn't want to finish but knew it was the right thing to do. I appreciate this because it gives me a feeling of accomplishment for a job done well.

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity.... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow." - Melodie Beattie

I appreciate that we have the scriptures to study the word of God. It is a blessing to me to follow the teachings in the scriptures and pray for guidance in my life. I have found many answers to my questions and problems there and am grateful for the help I have received.

"The debt of gratitude we owe our mother and father goes forward, not backward. What we owe our parents is the bill presented to us by our children." - Nancy Friday


We had family pictures taken today with the children and grandchildren. As I stood there with all of my family I realized how blessed I was. I am so grateful for them, they are the best!

"What you focus on expands, and when you focus on the goodness in your life, you create more of it. Opportunities, relationships, even money flowed my way when I learned to be grateful no matter what happened in my life." - Oprah Winfrey


I am blessed to be able to start out with a brand new year and find gratitude in every day of it.
Help me to remember to be grateful whatever happens each day!