Being Thankful :: Retired Living Today

Happy Thanksgiving!

Are you a thankful person? This is the perfect time of year to reflect on all we have, not on what we think we are missing.

I love Thanksgiving, don’t you? It’s the beginning of the holiday season. (And, no, I don’t count Halloween as a holiday.) Thanksgiving is a time to slow down and think about how blessed we are – as a nation, as a family, and as individuals. It’s a time to spend time with family and friends. And of course, a time to eat too much food, and watch parades and agonize over college football games. Be thankful for who you are and what you have.

My Thankfulness List

Thankful for My Faith

I am so blessed to be a Christ follower. My life is not perfect. If you look closely, you will find a ridiculously imperfect, forgiven child of God. He is first in my life.

Thankful for My Family

My husband: God gave me a good man as my husband. Not only is he a good husband and provider, he is a good father and grandfather. Okay, let’s face it, he’s just an all-around good guy.

Our two sons are such blessings to us. They are excellent fathers and husbands – they must have learned that from their dad. They are loving and giving . . . says the proud mama.

My three daughters-of-the heart: my stepdaughter and my two daughters-in-law. I raised boys, not girls, so these three wonderful women have been an awesome addition to our lives . . . and gave us our six grandchildren.

My awesome grandchildren – all six of them. They hold the strings of my heart. I love the people they are all growing up to be. The future is exciting, and I can’t wait to see who they become and what they accomplish.

My mother and brother – I love them both, more than I can even express. We’ve been through a lot together over the years.

My sweet sister – I love every minute I had with my sister . . . well, after she grew up, anyway. We became best friends and she took a huge piece of my heart with her when she relocated to heaven.

Thankful for My Friends

Close Friends – if we have ever prayed, laughed and cried together, then you are sisters of my heart. You know who you are.

Co-workers and friends. Where would I have been without you over the years? Many companies. Many friends. Maybe one too many late-night system install, but the journey was fun.

Great neighbors. In many states, many neighborhoods. Older friends who served as surrogate grandparents for our sons when we lived far away. Friends who watch our home when we are out of town. I’m thankful for all of you.

My church family – I’ve had many church friends over the years and in several different states. My heart is full when I think of the laughter and tears we’ve shared as we served God together. We are members of a larger family – the family of God.

Toastmaster friends. I put you in another group – but only because you are so very special to me. You’ve encouraged me and listened to my speeches, pushed me to move into leadership roles, and shown me what true “servant leadership” truly is. Lifetime friends – that’s what you are.

Thankful for My Home

My home. I never thought I would be in one home for twenty years (especially since I grew up as an Army brat). I’ve lived all over the United States and in two other countries. Gotta say, though – I sure have loved Kansas City.

My lake home. I’m so grateful that we have our lake home. When things are hectic at home, we go to the lake to relax and recharge. So many wonderful memories with family and friends. Boating, fishing, tubing and swimming. Who could ask for more?

Thankful for my Country

I was born in the greatest country in the world. Is it perfect? No. But, even with its faults, it is still the most generous nation in the world, its people the most giving and forgiving. We are one people, regardless of our religious or political beliefs, regardless of our skin color or country of origin. As Americans, we are a proud, free people. No other country has accomplished so much in such a short time. I love my country and truly wouldn’t want to be from any other. Celebrations for the Fourth of July, Memorial Day and Labor Day. What a country!!

Thankful for My Health

I know, during the holidays we don’t talk about health. It’s all about turkey and dressing, pumpkin pie and all those delectable desserts that add the pounds. And let’s face it, most of us aren’t poster children for excellent health. But I’m grateful for my health and I’m going to enjoy this time of year. Eat. Have fun with friends and family. Be thankful. You can exercise tomorrow.

Thankful for My Retirement

I am thankful I was able to retire early – this January. I’ve learned a lot in the past year – and no, I’m not too old to learn. I’m learning to relax, reading more, writing some, but still having a problem figuring out where all the time goes. It’s been almost a year since I retired and I swear, it only seems like a couple of months. I am so, so blessed.

Retired Living Today

Being Thankful