What I'm Thankful For

It's the time of year when many of my Facebook friends begin a daily log of the things they are thankful for. I don't have the patience for that, though I do see the value in it. Instead of posting my gratitude on Facebook, I'm going to make a quick list here of my top 10 most grateful things (today's things-- the list changes now and then!) If you don't care, that's cool.



In no particular order (because I can't choose):

1. Frivolities! I'm grateful for good food, fun entertainment, and the blessings of modern life.
2. I'm thankful for my home. It's small, humble and very crowded, but it's full of light, love, faith and laughter. Most of the time.
3. I'm thankful for employment. My husband was laid off at the end of 2012, but was only out of work for about 6 weeks. Other than that, he's always had a job, and I've been blessed to always be able to find work when I need to. 
4. My family. I love my Hickses. My sisters and brothers make me laugh until my cheeks hurt, and then we laugh more. 
5. My friends. I don't have a lot of them. Those who have stuck with me even when my social anxiety strangles me and I'm unable to be the friend they deserve are especially dear to me. Thank you.
6. My BFF older sister, Jen. She's always been there for me, showing me the way, listening to me, supporting me and understanding me. She was my partner in crime when we were young and I have always admired and looked up to her. No one understands me the way she does. 
7. My awesome husband, who works hard, plays hard, and keeps on going. 20 years, baby!
8. I'm enormously, eternally grateful for my children. They helped me prove that I'm not my mom. They taught me true love. They consistently show me what devotion, loyalty, faith, joy, humor, passion, and enthusiasm are. They are a joy and a pleasure to spend time with. I'm so proud of the people they are and excited about the people they will become.
9. My hero is my dad, and I'm SO thankful he's in my life. I don't know anyone else with his dedication to his family, his patience, honor, faith and long-suffering. He is like a pillar in a storm, solid, strong and always there. I'm also grateful to his wife, Joyce, who makes him happier than anyone else ever could have. 
10. I'm so grateful for my religion. I love the Lord, I love the gospel, and I feel so blessed to have light and truth in a world drowning in darkness.