After being in Colorado for a good part of the week, this morning the drive home begins. I’ve had a great holiday visit with my son and am grateful he is healthy and well.   The twelve hours home will be a good time to “count my blessings”, which are many. 

From “I’m Grateful For” by a Writer Unknown 

For the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours–
because it means I am alive.

For the taxes that I pay–
Because it means I am employed.

For the mess to clean after a party–
Because it means that I have been surrounded by friends.

For the clothes that fit a little too snug–
Because it means I have enough to eat.

For my shadow that watches me work–
Because it means I am out in the sunshine.

For a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning, and gutters that need fixing–
Because it means I have a home.

For all the complaining I hear about the government–
Because it means we have freedom of speech.

For the parking spot I find at the far end of the parking lot–
Because it means I am capable of walking and that I have been blessed with transportation.

For my huge heating bill–
Because it means I am warm.

For the lady behind me in church who sings off key–
Because it means I can hear.

For the pile of laundry and ironing–
Because it means I have clothes to wear.

For weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day–
Because it means I have been capable of working hard.

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