Thankfulness

Our pastor is doing a series of sermons about living in the promised land and stepping out of the wilderness. They are about living in an attitude of thankfulness and not an attitude of complaining. There are so many things I have to be thankful for. Here are a few:

-My wonderful, wonderful husband. We took time off work this past week to work on our house and finish the upstairs in part for preparation for baby Stella. We moved in 6 months ago, but there was still painting, and other improvement projects we wanted to do. Tommy worked so hard this week on our house, and I am so grateful for him. I helped, of course, but my activities are a little limited. I feel like I get tired after about 10 minutes. He was so patient and kind and worked so hard to make our house more beautiful. I'm not sure if I have ever loved him more than I love him today. He is a blessing to me, a true gift from God. My best friend. I am thankful we have a house and a great, great husband to help me make it a home.

-Stella! I am so thankful that my pregnancy has gone so smoothly. I could not ask for a better pregnancy. I try to hard not to complain about the little things that inconvenience me about being pregnant, for as sure as I complain I think about all the women in this world who struggle with infertility and would give anything to live with those inconveniences. I remember what it was like before we got pregnant, wondering if we were indeed one of those couples who would not have children. So again, I am thankful for my unborn daughter and I'm really thankful that I can feel her moving around and know that she's alive, that makes me feel alive.

-My family. I have the greatest mom and dad ever. Ever. I love them so much, it makes my heart hurt. My dad helped with the house this week and my mom came over and helped with some things as well. I know there are other ways they could spend their days, but they choose to spend them with us. My mom and dad have totally embraced Tommy as their own and he loves them just as much. I can't wait for poppaw and grandmommy to meet their little princess and love her like they love Tommy and me.

-My church. My church is like a second family. I am so thankful to have so many people who care for us and are truly concerned about our well being and happiness. They are so excited about the baby and they ask for weekly updates about her. What a great way to worship and to minister-in the company of those who truly love each other.

-My dogs. I'm so, so thankful for my little Gracie and Duke. They are truly awesome companions, especially Gracie. I love her so much!!! She's my loyal pal and hung by my side everyday this week.

So, how can I complain when God has blessed me in so many different ways? I am thankful for the cross and what it has done for my life and for all the things in my life God has decided to bless me with. Where would I be in this world without Him?

I think I'm ready to move out of the wilderness permanently.