XYZ

I must admit I have had a difficult time thinking of what I am thankful for that begin with the last three letters of the alphabet. I'm sure if I really took the time, I would successfully find something, but...

I have been having such a wonderful time at home that I've not spent a lot of time thinking about anything except family, thanksgiving dinner and home. It's been a lovely week surrounded by everything and everyone that bring me true joy...

This week has been one of true Thanksgiving.

W

Water - I do believe it's my primary "element," complemented by Fire, which is why I am at such peace when I am in warm sunshine near a body of water. I absolutely love oceans, rivers, lakes and of course swimming pools!

World Wide Web (WWW) - it has opened up the world to me! I can't imagine (or remember) life without the internet. When used properly the internet is a powerful tool for good.

V

Vacation! I have the greatest job, really. I work with a top-notch group of people, all working towards a very positive goal - educating children. And I am very thankful for my job. However, I am also very grateful for Vacations. Our school is closed for the week of Thanksgiving, which gives me the entire week to relish in the blessing of my home and family. I'm so grateful to have a full week to enjoy it all!

Vision. I'm grateful that I have always had the ability to see - literally and figuratively. My eye sight has been something I have taken for granted, until about 10 years ago when I discovered the blessing of reading glasses! I am also grateful for the ability to "see" things figuratively. I love to discover the symbolism in literature and life and then see how I can apply it in life lessons. It makes everything so much richer.

Ummm

Umbrellas - 'nuf said.

My Dad's Ukulele - many fun memories of singing as a family with Dad accompanying us on his ukulele "Oh, when the Saints come marching in...!"

I must admit to "stealing" this one from my friend Sue:

The United States of America! Is there any greater feeling that watching our beautiful flag being Unfurled while the National Anthem is being played? I love this country, I'm grateful for it's goodness. I am also very proud to have two sons who have volunteered to defend it. (Thanks Sue for reminding me!)

T

Travis - a wonderful son, brother and friend. He is also a very handsome army pilot. I love him!

Temples - The House of the Lord. In them covenants are made and eternal connections are forged. I am thankful for the blessings of the Temple.

My Testimony - while it is far from perfect, my Testimony in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Plan of Salvation keeps me grounded and gives me hope.

Shhhh

Shelby. Shelby writes. Shelby writes on her blog when she is not heavily burdened with school work. Shelby is in college. Shelby is cute and a lot of fun too.

Sleep. I am so grateful when I have had a good night's sleep and I wake refreshed in the morning. Oh, I think I'm feeling a little sleepy now!

R

Rivers - running water, really. I really, really love the Mississippi River (I like spelling Mississippi, too!) Rivers bring peace to my soul.

Rain (is there a theme here today?). I love the rain. I would take the rain over snow ANY day. I especially like what the world looks like after a really good rain. I used to love thunderstorms that brought rain except now my dog freaks out and destroys my house, so I dread the storms. But bring on the rain!