Gratitude Journal

I was called as the Beehive advisor in October and one of the lessons I taught was on Gratitude. One of the suggestions was to encourage the young women to keep a gratitude journal. I, always getting more from teaching than I give, decided that was a great idea. I started on November 10, 2010. I was amazed at the things I was able to list. My goal was to list at least 5 things every day and I needed to be specific. I'm grateful for friends was not going to cut it, I needed to list which friend and why. What a blessing it has been for me to focus on gratitude. Shortly after starting my gratitude journal we learned that Nathan would be loosing his job at the end of the year. Then we had to put Harley down. I believe that gratitude journal was a tender mercy from the Lord. It has allowed me to spend time each day reflecting on the many things for which I am grateful.
Due to Nathan's job loss we will be having a very different Christmas. I had to tell our kids who Santa really is and although that was a hard conversation, as Mackenzie says, "it's okay." We still believe in the magic that Santa represents and are looking forward to the little things we have taken the time and effort to get for each other. And that is what Christmas is all about.
I'm grateful for this time of year that I've had to reflect upon the greatest gift ever given. My Savior, Jesus Christ. I'm grateful for his unconditional love and support as I navigate this earthly journey and for the comfort and support I feel on a daily basis. Gratitude....