I'm thankful for...

I have really been bothered lately about the state of our country right now. There is so much negativity. I find myself worried at times and then refocus on the fact that God is in control and he has given me promises for a better life one day! It was because of these worries that I decided to come up with 32 (that is how old I am) things I am thankful for. I wanted to get myself focused on the great blessing He has given me. I know this is a little early but I wanted to have plenty of time to truly focus on Him and these blessings.

These are in no particular order and some are major blessings and others are not..
1). The Grace that my Heavenly Father has given me- For without it, life would be hopeless!
2). My spiritual heritage- I have a strong family of believers that has helped pave the way for me and my family.
3). My parents- God blessed me with AMAZING parents that have supported me in so many ways. I love you both!
4). My brother- I have always looked up to him. He has been my entertainment, my leader, my teacher, my best friend, my confidant, and my example for many years and will always be. I love you!
5). My sister-in-law- She has been a good fit for our family! We have shared many things through the raising of our boys. I am blessed to have her since I never had a sister. I love you!
6). My husband- God gave me the perfect match for me. We have laughed, cried, been silly, struggled, and worshipped together for 11 years. He is my support and our provider. He allowed me to fulfill a dream- have children and stay at home and raise them. He is a true spiritual leader for us. I love you!
7). Todd- He is a shining light. He has taught me many things that I needed to learn. He has a heart of gold. His laughter is what makes my day. I love him and cannot imagine life without him. He is truly a special gift!
8). Jackson- He was an answered prayer after 4 years! He has a smile to melt my heart. He is the completion to our family. I look forward to seeing his personality emerge! He is also a special gift!
9). Faith LeeAnn- She is the daughter that we lost in 2007. Although it was a huge disappointment to lose her, she is the daughter I always desired. I look forward to meeting her one day. She is in the best place to be! I love you baby girl even though I have not seen you face-to-face.
10). My church- I am thankful to have such a great place to raise Todd and to develop my spiritual walk.
11). My friends (both new and old that I have reconnected with)- You all are the ones that have helped make me who I am today. I love you all!
12). Brad's job- He has been blessed with a job that pays well and that he enjoys!
13). My home- We have been blessed with a nice home that we have been able to add on to this year.
14). Our 2 cars
15). The freedom to worship without worries of persecution
16). My family living in the same area so that we can spend time with one another
17). My health
18). My youth minister growing up (Randy)- He helped develop me into who I am today. He helped me grow and stretch spiritually. I do not think that I would be as strong as I am today if it weren't for his guidance.
19). Our youth ministry job- though it ended rough, it taught me to appreciate my children's youth ministers one day and it allowed me to see what a talent Brad has with teens.
20). My teaching jobs- They taught me compassion, patience, determination, unconditional love, and thankfulness. Those kids were some of the most amazing kids on this earth!
21). My financial security- We have been blessed with great financial security this year. That is such a blessing!
22). Seasons- This allows me to see the beauty of God. They amaze me every time!
23). Phones, TV, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, etc- These are so convenient and useful!
24). Todd's school- The principal and teacher are Christians. The school is safe and provides what he needs academically.
25). Harding University- This helped me find my husband, allowed me to get a degree, and helped me grow spiritually.
26). All of our moves- I have moved 6 times (in 5 states) since I was born. Each move, though some were very hard, taught me something I needed to learn.
27). My childhood- It was happy, safe, and enjoyable.
28). The Bible
29). Our military who protect us daily
30). Christian music- That is just about all I listen to. I gives me encouragement.
31). Prayer- I can express my concerns and thankfulness to God.
32). God and His sacrifice- Need I say more?

I could give more. I have to admit that at times I had to think pretty hard. I would love to see what others are thankful for even if it is not this long!