One Thousand Gifts

I saw this linked to another site and checked it out.  It seemed a beautiful thing to do, to slowly write one thousand things that are in fact gifts from God as a way of praising Him.   Ann Voscamp, the person who put this idea out there, quoted  John Milton: "Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world."

Check out the above site and start your own list.  I plan to add to mine little by little.  I am not planning on adding God, the Holy Spirit, or Jesus.  It is understanably the most awesome gift we have to be in realtionship with our creator and thus is in a list of its own.

Here goes and in no particular order:

1. My husband to whom the Lord led me and showed me clearly that I was his beloved and he was mine.

2. My son who is a handsome boy full of life and joy. He makes me laugh. I love his wonderful manners and love of learning.

3. My daughter who loves to dress up and is more beautiful then any princess out there. Her sweet squeaky voice and cute ways are a treasure

4. Our cozy home here in the country that the Lord prepared and led us to.  Although not perfect in every way, we enjoy every day here.

5. Flannel sheets that make your toes warm in a drafty upstairs on cold nights.  Esp cute flannel sheets.

6. Target. very cool and fun store.  I so enjoy times that I get to slowly look around and check the end caps for sales and new stuff they put out.  I really like when they change the stationary area.

7. Rolling hills.  How fun it has been to live near such beauty and drive into amish country with breath taking views.  I dream about having my dream house on one such hill with my prayer closet facing the view.  Strong coffee, a perfect view, and time with God. It could not get any better.

8. Coffee shops. I love the coziness and warmth.  I like having a choice although I usually get just coffee.  I like holiday flavors (pumpkin) and cute mugs. 

9. Reading.  What a joy to pick up a novel you can not put down.  Even more so nonfiction that draws me to know my creator in a deeper way or a missionary story that builds my faith.  Reading to my children is also a joy!

10. My Mom , always a phone call away, she keeps in close touch with me.  She wants me to do well and always encourages me.  When I am fearful, she is a voice of calm.  She is very giving and helped me in many, many ways.

11. My Dad , a well read man of God, he has encouraged me to deepen my walk with God.  He has been a rock to our family.  His love for missions and leadership in so many areas inspire me.

12. Penny, a no nonsense friend, who tells me like it is and loves me though she knows me well. She is a reader and loves to discuss them at length.  Often, I love her take on what we have read better then my own. She has many times helped me make sense of what is going on and walked with me on this journey.  She is a valuable friend to me despite the fact we now live so far apart. 

13. Apple Cider Vinigar. I have been reading all the health benefits and am grateful for natural stuff that God made to help our bodies function well.

14. Thanksgiving. I can't wait to be with my family and make food together, watch all the kids play together, watch parades, talk and talk, have fun, and get up early Friday for shopping.  Too much fun!

15. Praise music I just love uplifting songs that focus me on the awesomeness of God.  Right now I am loving Thirs Day's song Show Me Your Glory.

16. TOYS It is crazy but I think I like getting my childreb toys as much as they like getting them.  I esp. like getting educational toys.  Christmas is as fun for me.

17. calendars I have always likes looking at my calendar and keeping track of what I do.  I used to us a Franklin whne I was working which I totally loved, but now I streamlined to one I keep on the side of the fridge facing the computer. 

18. Speaking I just had an opportuinity to speak at our MOPS group on personality types and I really enjoyed it.  I love sharing about missions or whatever God lays on my heart.  It really is crazy and I do get nervous, but I like it.

19. MOPS I like having a group of like minded women who get together on a monthly basis.  I like being part of the team and ministering as God leads.

20. Women's ministry I love bing a part of whatever it is the Lord is doing here.  I like leading or just being a part of studies, I like discipling others, I like helping in any way that I can.