As long as thanks is possible, then joy is always possible.”
― Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are
― Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are
I am thankful for the little things: the huge grin on my eldest's face as he runs home from school; the excitement of my second born as he sees his friend on skype; the laughter of little boys at play; the fall sunshine; the sound of birdsong.
I'm in the middle of reading a book entitled One Thousand Gifts. The prose is intense and I have to admit that I am savouring the read ~ one chapter at a time. The dare presented by the author: to live fully right where you are.
So much has happened in a year. It is impossible not to be thankful when I take a moment to consider the journey, the healing, and the health improvements I've experienced. There are still moments of chest pressure; but they are few and mild ~ most likely a reflection of the Gerdes component of my condition. I reflect on the PE every so often; I still wear my medic alert bracelet, I continue to take my warfarin and I still sift through the shadows (and revelations) that resulted in that summer of last.
For the most part, we are now settling into a routine. The older boys are enjoying school and the younger boys are exploring, discovering and learning in the wonderful way of the toddler. As in so many other seasons of late, I haven't found much time for email, facebook or blogging, but I have been thinking a great deal about the amazing people in my life. It happens when I'm at the sink washing dishes or at the washing machine throwing in another load... and I am thankful.
The running I had started mid-summer has transformed into the kind of mama-on-the-run-packing-lunches-sorting-laundry kind of running. Running the bath water, running in the leaves after my boys, running the dishwasher, running ragged...
Running a household.
I do not easily forget how a year ago, the simple motions of domestic life were all but impossible. I do not forget the hot meals arriving at my door, the hands holding those of my sons, the words of encouragement and, most importantly, I do not forget the love.
I am thankful.
I am filled with thanks.
― Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are