Rather than...

I haven't written in a few days. Yes, it has been busy and hectic. But honestly, I just didn't have much nice to say. I've felt, to borrow a good description from Grey's, all "dark & twisty."

But as Thanksgiving swiftly approaches, I have decided to try to replace my gripes with gratitude. You know, mind over matter. Or even better: putting my mind on what really matters. So rather than simply grumbling about things that have occurred this week, I'm going to try to focus on some things for which I am thankful.

1. Rather than complain that our bank is no longer open on Saturdays and that I had to find that out by driving all the way there first, I will give thanks that Hubs & I have jobs and paychecks to deposit.
2. Rather than whining about all of the unfinished home repair jobs taunting me from the long to-do list on the counter, I will remember with humble praise that I am fortunate to have a home at all.
   
3. Rather than continuing to wallow in embarrassment and anger at Big Sister for her gigantic temper tantrum in the aisle, in the front of the sanctuary during the Upward Soccer award's night while her Dad was on stage (okay, I'm still sort of wallowing... sigh) I will choose to be thankful for the friends who helped me leave and look after Little Sister while I attempted to stand my ground. And I will thank God for giving me a little bit more patience when I thought mine was all used up.
4. Rather than feeling sad that we are far away from family and friends as we approach the holiday season, I will be thankful for parents who make the trip to visit us frequently and for growing friendships and (church) family here.
5. Rather than fussing about crazy schedules or too many obligations, I will be grateful for the chance to give my time to my community, my church, my children, my husband or my friends, knowing that ultimately when I use my time and resources to build up, serve and love those around me, I am loving Christ. I will humbly give thanks that Christ accepts my meager gifts and loves me no matter what I have to offer.

Even when all I can offer is an attempt at thanksgiving, an effort at being thankful.

And even when I'm "dark & twisty."