Post Thanksgiving List.

Today, I'm thankful for the time I got to spend with my brother.

I'm thankful for the time with Dad, and with Mom on Thanksgiving.

I'm thankful for love in families that says, "I know you love me, even if we don't see each other often.  And you know I love you, too."
I think that same love applies to watching football games together- you most likely aren't talking, but the time together is appreciated.

I'm thankful for silly youtube videos that break the ice in conversations.

I'm thankful for my dog-- how he randomly jabs his nose in my leg or my face to say hello, for his company on walks, the way he makes me laugh, and his great example of taking naps in the afternoon. Even though it isn't a great smell, the way he smells is comforting!... I'm thankful for that, too.

I'm thankful for my grandparents' home out on the farm.  The views are breath taking, the wind blows strong, birds sing even yet, and the smell of earth and manure, though not pleasant, becomes a hearty one that you might actually find yourself welcoming in its familiarity.  The best part about the home is the people who live there.  I'm thankful for two grandparents that are amazing, loving, brave, witty, and selfless.

I'm thankful for flowers still blooming despite the cold.

I'm thankful for having amazing people in my life I don't deserve to know.

I'm thankful for bear hugs.

I'm thankful for phone calls with family and friends.

I'm thankful for the example people around me set for me-- like my friend Amber shaved her head to support someone who has cancer;  my father helps my elderly neighbors cheerfully; my mom visits a sick friend; elderly neighbors mentor those whom regularly visit them and are cheery despite physical pain.

I'm thankful for writing and lines.

I'm thankful for warm socks.

I'm thankful for the chance to learn about a variety of things with books and the internet.

I'm thankful for how sometimes a good night's sleep puts things in perspective.

I'm thankful that God is my trust, and I can cast my anxieties on Him, because He cares for me.

I'm thankful for laughter and tears, because they all are genuine expressions of our heart.