Thankful

It becomes more and more apparent each year how blessed we really are to have things that so many others don't--like a warm house, a steady job, healthy children, wonderfully loving and supportive family and friends, testimonies of our Savior, reliable vehicles, money for food and utilitites, etc., etc.  It also becomes harder and harder each year to remember that.  We vow to keep Christmas small, and the excitement of Toys 'R' Us starts melting our resolve.  Commercials and billboards tell us of all the things we need, while we forget we didn't even think about them the minute before.  Although Canadian Thanksgiving in October is wonderful, it's kind of nice to celebrate the later American version, as it comes at a good time to keep us thankful.

There are always the big things on our list of thankfuls, but there are so many little things, too, that we rarely even think about.  Aimee is thankful that Clayton usually takes the first shower of the day, as our hot water is a little sluggish in the morning.  She is also thankful for her walk-in closet, internet access at home, and that she can hear the bells of the Lutheran church down the street, which play hymns in the evening.  Clayton is thankful for vacation time, iPods, and a reliable alarm clock.  Luke says he is thankful for "sports, candy, and shows."  When we asked Audrey what she was thankful for, she said, "Happy!"  If only we could always remember to be happy with what we have been given, even if it seems like less than others.  It is probably a lot more than most.