Think to Thank

Well with Thanksgiving around the corner and constantly hearing about how bad everything is I thought it would be good to 'count my many blessings.' There are so many things I am grateful for, but I've limited it to a top 10 list.

10. Priesthood - I think it is amazing that we have the power of God on earth. Though only worthy men can hold the power, I know we can all be blessed by it. Cute story: Jack told me the other day, 'you can hold the priesthood tonight' (then whispered, 'put your arms around me') :) It's good to enjoy those fun, nerdy times and have a worthy priesthood holder in my home. I have seen miracles in my own life and felt the blessings of partaking in the holy ordinances that would not be available without it.

9. Temples - I am also grateful for all the temples around the world, the many more they are building and will build in the future. I love to go to the House of the Lord and sit in the Celestial Room -it is such a peaceful place. I love to see family and friends be sealed and the happiness and love that is felt. I am grateful that I am worthy to hold a current temple recommend.

8. Families - Need I say more? I am grateful we are put in families, the love and support system they are. With that, technology and that I can talk to my parents and brothers and sisters and be able to visit with them. It's always a good time to get together with our families.

7. Church Publications - Since I haven't been working I spend more time at home and have come to really appreciate all the church publications. I love reading from the Joseph Smith manuel. I always get inspired to do good and be better. I am grateful for the Ensign put out every month and that I am able to look up older talks from the Brethren on the internet. I learn so much and feel better after reading them.

6. Prophets - Going along with the previous number, I know the prophets of old and the living prophet today are called of God and they are a Watchman on the Tower for the whole world. I feel so blessed that there is someone on earth to look to and listen to and feel at peace.

5. Prayer - I am so grateful that anyone can pray and that God will listen. There are often times when I feel overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions and at those times I can kneel and pour out everything. It is comforting to know that someone is listening and someone cares about my silly worries.

4. Holy Ghost - I am grateful I was able to receive the gift of the holy ghost and the blessings that come with that. Even though I sometimes struggle trying to understand it, I'm thankful that I know that when I am worthy I can have the Holy Ghost with me at all times. I feel so much better knowing that if I'm doing what I'm supposed to I will be comforted and guided at those difficult times.

3. Plan of Salvation - How can anybody not be truly grateful for knowing who they are, why they are here, and where they are going. It gives life purpose, gives me motivation, and peace that no matter what the end result will be worth it. I often think of the line from The Living Christ that says, "Christ will return to the earth and all flesh shall see it together. He will rule as King of Kings and reign as Lord of Lords. Every knee shall bend and every tongue shall speak in worship before Him. Each of us will stand to be judged of Him according to our works and the desires our hearts." It makes me excited for that day. It will be wonderful and I feel blessed knowing that what I do on earth right now and not giving up is going to matter.

2. Noah - When I think of him I often think of the cheesy My Turn on Earth song and the lines, "you can never know good if you never know the bad, you can never be happy if you've never been sad." :) As imperfect as I am and frustrated I get at times with him, he is so great to have in my life. He brings so many smiles, so many laughs, and so many good times. He is a wonderful spirit and brings so much to our home and family. I love being a mom and am very grateful that I have been trusted and privileged to raise him.

1. Jack - My husband tops the list. Everything would be so much harder without him. I've now known him for 8 1/2 years and it keeps getting better. He is a huge strength and support. He works nonstop to make sure he is doing the best he can with school, work, church, and our family. He constantly makes sacrifices. And he loves me and he loves Noah. I love watching him play with Noah, I love his smile, I love when he sings and plays the guitar for us. I love seeing him get excited about books or learning something new. I love him and everything he is, stands for, and does. I am so thankful to have met him and have him in my life.