Thanksgiving, the holiday that causes many of us to reflect on and be thankful for our blessings.  As the saying goes, “Count your blessings one by one and you’ll see what God has done.”  I can’t tell you how often I need to revisit those words.  Even at 55, I have issues with contentment.  I have a habit of comparing myself to others who seem to be enjoying greater happiness or greater success.  It’s not something I’m proud of, but I’m being honest here.  When I feel that way, it’s time to step back and remember what is really important.

If I count my blessings, I can be thankful first and foremost for my salvation.  If you’ve read my blog for any length of time you know my faith in Christ is paramount.  I’m also thankful for my great health and the health of my family members.  Of course I’m thankful for those family members.  Every Wednesday night is Family Dinner Night.  We host dinner for my sister-in-law, my niece, her husband and my grand-niece, and whichever of our daughters and their families are in town.  It’s a time to connect, enjoy each other’s company, tease each other a bit and strengthen our family bond.  When we get the extended family together for our annual Easter brunch it warms my heart.  I love watching the “littles,” our grandchildren, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, running through the lawn looking for eggs.  Some of the best times ever.

Whenever we can, Andy and I head over to California to visit my mom and brother.  No one makes me laugh like my brother.  We were raised in a military family, which meant relocating often.  We relied on each other for friendship and entertainment until we made friends in each new city.  As a result, we have so many inside jokes it’s almost as if we have our own language.  His daughters, my sweet nieces, have definitely inherited his warped sense of humor.  I always have fun with them when we have time to connect.

My immediate family – my hubby, my four daughters and their families – constantly give me joy.  With two new grandchildren on the way I couldn’t be happier.  I enjoy time spent with our four girls.  As we all know from blogging, there is nothing like the bond between women, and the power of women lifting each other up.  When those women are also your daughters, it’s so amazingly special.

All that and I’ve talked mostly about family. Clearly they are my greatest blessings.  It’s important that I remember that not just once a year on a holiday designated for giving thanks, but every day, because I’m blessed every day.  Black Friday is just a day away, ushering in  “Shopping Season.”  As a fashion and lifestyle blogger it’s a great time to make money by promoting merchandise, but I’m not ready to do that.  I want to take some time reflecting on the things that really matter.  I hope you’ll take time to do the same.

Count your blessings one by one and you’ll see what God has done.

Happy Thanksgiving, Friends,