1. My husband. He loves me, overlooks my many shortcomings, takes care of me, spoils me, forgives me, puts up with me, compliments me. And he’s just plain awesome.

2. C., my 12-year-old. He is always trying to make my life easier or to encourage me in some way. He’s smart, funny (punny, as a matter of fact), analytical. He loves to read, loves to learn. He’s an all-around great kid.

3. L., my 4-year-old. He makes me smile every single day. He’s clever, creative, and energetic. He’s friendly and outgoing. He cracks me up and melts my heart.

4. Our extended family. How blessed we are to have so many family members living nearby (and to have Facebook to keep in touch with those who don’t!). Our kids have gobs of cousins, a couple crazy aunts/uncles (I’m not naming names), and loving grandparents.

5. Starbucks Peppermint Mochas. Because they are delicious. Really delicious.

6. A renewed friendship. A dear friend and I have recently committed to getting together at least once a month and I’m so glad. We’d gone too long without connecting, and I’d allowed busyness and life circumstances to leave our friendship languishing, neglected. Time with her is inspiring and refreshing, and I can’t wait for our next get-together.

7. Our new small group. Chad and I, being grumpy hermits introverts, weren’t necessarily seeking out a small group, but one found us anyway. They’ve taken us in, chosen to share their lives with us and invited us to share our lives with them. It’s something we didn’t expect, but it’s been so good.

8. Amazing long-distance friends. I have a few friends (and you know who you are) that I never see, because we live many, many miles apart. But these friends are always just an email or phone call away, and I treasure their friendship. They love me as I am, accept my venting and questioning, offer encouragement, insight, and laughter. I need them in my life and am so glad they are there!

9. Books. And more books.

10. Technology. And not just because it lets me play Angry Birds on my iPod. But because it allows me to keep in touch with friends and family, have a blog, look up answers to important questions (and not-so-important ones, too), manage our bank accounts, discover new books, etc., etc., etc.

11. Fleece hoodies.

12. Chocolate. In pretty much any form.

13. Flannel sheets.

14. Family time.

15. Very hot baths.

16. A washer and dryer.

17. Boardgames.

18. Our furnace.

19. Aleve.

20. Our church.

21. Pens that write smoothly and paper that doesn’t let the ink bleed through.

22. My iPod.

23. Laughter.

24. Forgiveness.

25. Baked goods.

26. A good story.

27. Sleep.

28. The United States of America.

29. Pictures of my kids.

30. Love.

I could go on and on and on.

But above all, and before all, and after all, I’m thankful for my Savior, Jesus Christ.

Wishing you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving!