I am grateful that the cost of a trip to the CareNow clinic is almost exactly the same as the deposit refund check we just recieved. Also, for $4 prescriptions at Wal-Mart.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn to be more compassionate.

I am grateful for hardwood floors that are easy to clean up, and grateful that we can rest a bit this weekend, because we worked so hard LAST weekend. And I am totally grateful for the smell of a real Christmas tree, because it seriously is the best.

I am grateful that the baby is okay, and I am grateful that everyone was so nice about taking me to the hospital. Also that I don’t have to be on bedrest after all.

I am grateful for so many family members who care enough to be bossy. And for a husband who comes home bearing ice cream cones.

I am grateful for a warm coat on a cold, windy day. And for all the kind people in my life. Also for the puppy whining at the door to be let out when she needed to go, instead of continuing her habit of peeing on the floor.

I am grateful for bacon and eggs…that I did not cook… in bed… at midnight. And I am grateful for a husband who is also my best friend. And I am grateful for extra strength Tylenol.

I am grateful for a husband who insists on giving me an essential oil massage so I can be comfortable enough to get a good night’s sleep. And for that feeling of relief that happens when you wake up from a bad dream and realize it was only a dream. And for decaf coffee with heavy whipping cream… guilt free. And for the feeling that the life we are living is better than any I ever escaped to in imagination during my childhood. And for clean sheets on a freshly-made bed.

I am grateful for having a home, especially one that I really love. Also for puppy breath, because I know that it is fleeting. And for this mind-numbing pain in my ribs, because it means the baby is growing big and strong, and maybe it will help raise my pain tolerance level.

I am grateful that God brought me to my soulmate, the most wonderful man I’ve ever met.