Ten Things of Thankful

It is once again time to consider what has happened, or not happened, during the past week and jot down 10 things for which I am thankful.  It always amazes me what a diverse group of individuals we are that link up our posts to the blog hop Ten Things of Thankful.  We vary from one another in many ways, but the one thing that unites us is the desire to take stock of our lives each week and contemplate the ways we have been blessed.  Just in recognizing our blessings and sharing them with others, our blessings seem to be added upon.

1 - 2 Monday my husband and I enjoyed a wonderful lunch at a couple's home.  My husband had already met them, but I had not.  We both really enjoyed their company and hospitality.  They both know a lot about naturalizing properties with native plants, and since we are considering doing more of that, it was great to "pick their brains."  This "we project" is really more my husband's idea at this point, since doing a lot work outside at present isn't an option for me. I'm thankful to make new friends and to learn new things.

3.  A friend's husband passed away after a lengthy battle with ALS.  This is such a horrible disease.  He never complained.  I feel such sadness for his dear wife who cared for him in their home until the very end.  Both of them I consider to be saints.  My husband and I sat across from them at an Empty Nesters' dinner group quite a few years ago when they were first trying to figure out what was going on with his health, at the point they were being referred to other doctors.  To have watched how they have dealt with this unexpected detour in their lives has left an indelible imprint on my soul. I am thankful for having been able to see the love they have for one another.  They have taught not only me, but so many others by their example.

4 - 5  Thursday evening I attended a meeting at my church.  A representative from Catholic Charities met with us to explain their involvement with the Refugee Resettlement in Oregon and the need for volunteers in the community to help.  It was very informative.  One of the first things she explained was what the difference is between a refugee and a migrant,  to clear up any misunderstandings on that matter.  It was great to receive information as to ways those in the community can be involved as  individuals and/or as a groups.   I am thankful for opportunities to combine with other churches in the area to meet a common need.  I am thankful that even though there may be differences in how our worship services are conducted and some differences in how we interpret doctrine, we come together in a desire to help others.

6.  Friday morning I went for PT which included some massage.  Even though the massage wasn't very long, nor painful, I bruised from it. (?)  I am thankful for those in the health care fields who have training to help us improve our health. 

7.  My husband and I are trying to eat  a more healthy diet, but buying some bags of candy that were on sale, knowing I would want to have some on hand for the children who trick or treat, was our bane.  You guessed it!  The bags got opened sooner than later.  With the cooler weather, I am enjoying being able to make more soups and stews.  I am thankful for a friend that brought me some Tuscan tomato and basil bisque this week.  It was very yummy.

8.  One day we had very heavy rains most of the day.  The next day was combined with darks clouds intermittent with some sun. There is something about seeing the beautiful fall foliage still moist from the rain arrayed against blue sky and sunshine. The sight really lifts my spirit.  I was glad my husband was receptive to my desire to "Let's go for a drive."  I really wanted to soak up scenery for a while.

9.  Little by little I am making some progress in our home with the decluttering project.  It just takes me longer than I would like.  Patience, she said, patience.

10.  I am thankful that we received our ballots this week.  It truly is a blessing that we live in this country and have the right to vote.