Gratitude * Sunday

This week I am joining Taryn at Wooly Moss Roots for

Won't you join in too?

G r a t i t u d e  *  S u n d a y

{Sunday's heartfelt tradition. A time to slow down, to reflect, to be grateful. A list of gratitudes.} 

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If you would like to join us, see above. 

Our gratefulness feeds one another. 

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Throughout the week I've felt grateful for: 

* The audio book on Mindfulness that I listened to on a long drive for work and its gentle but constant reminder to just be still.

* The eye-opening meeting with the mortgage lender who took the wind out of my sails on purchasing another house in town.  I left there feeling discouraged and angry,  but hours later realized this was the best thing that could have happened.  I am so relieved that I didn't go ahead with it and so glad I don't have to jump through their hoops.  I am sorry for those who do.  If we need a second place, we will rent.  For now we will work with what we have.

* Learning once again how to "turn it around" and make a positive out of a negative (see above).

* My coworkers - who always like me - even when I don't like me - or them.

* The opportunity every day to work with rural Nebraskans who are the most wholesome people I have ever been around.  I am constantly in awe of them.

* The hugely humbling experience of living with two 17 year olds who can take me down with just a look. I am still thankful and grateful for who they are.

*My oldest daughters' daily updates on my dad, who is in hospice and in his last days.  She is so good to be able to deliver the words.

*My mom, who sits at his bed and holds his hand, because this comforts him.

* This photo, of the bracelet Rylee made for him when we visited him in the hospital before he was moved to hospice.  My sister took this photo a few days ago and said it was "a little bit of rainbow that made her heart sing".

* And last but not least - the thing I am most thankful for this, and every, week, is that time in the evening, when the sun has just started to set and the light is changing, when the animals have full bellies,  and are quieted and content; when the chores are done and the day is ending and I take just a minute to stop and look and listen.  

It's those moments when I feel a peace that cannot be taken from me.  

Those moments when I know everything is all right - right here - right now. 

It's those moments when I confirm over and over again - 

THIS is why I do it and why I will do it again tomorrow.  

I just can't get that anywhere else.

p.s. I wrote this post last night and got the word this morning that my father passed on. 

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