Thankful Month

i've noticed a lot of my friends on facebook have started listing something they are thankful for each day in november.  
i think it's a great idea.  actually, last month i started a thankful journal.  i was inspired by the book one thousand gifts.  i haven't finished it yet unfortunately because i seem to fall asleep 5 minutes after i open the book (i usually read at night in my bed - it's the only time i have peace and quiet and feel like i can take the time for myself).  
i'm struggling a bit with filling the pages.  i am very thankful for the many blessings in my life but i'm trying to really focus on the everyday little things. to be more aware of the beauty around me and the small things that make me smile or catch my breath.  
this can be tricky when i'm also struggling with the pain of losing my mother and the upcoming holidays, our first without her.  it is my intention this year to put the focus on simplicity, family, and faith rather than the commercialized more secular side of things.  
so instead of publicly declaring what i am thankful for each day on facebook (though i love seeing these posts), i have turned our kitchen chalkboard wall into a thankful wall.  i started it and have asked that everyone add to it each day (maggie has embraced this idea - matt is going to take some coaxing).

notice the larger than necessary "video games"?  i thought about erasing it but decided that, in his 10 year old world, video games are a gift.  plus i didn't want  to discourage him from adding to our list.  i'm hoping he will come up with some more meaningful ideas before we end the month.

another thing i've been doing is writing a different verse from the Bible on the chalkboard tray i have in my living room.  just to familiarize the kids with them and as a daily reminder of the presence of God in our lives.  i admit i haven't done a very good job of that so far but i'm certain that it's not too late.  

this is our verse for this month.  that's my thankful journal in front.  i've also started reading from "The Message" bible.  i have several versions and alternate among them but this one really helps when i'm struggling to understand.  

i hope you are finding lots of things to be thankful for this month.  these 2 are at the top of my list.

 and this guy who loves me so well

and my beautiful mom (with dad last Thanksgiving)

as hard as it is without her, i know i was blessed to have her for my mom, and i am thankful for her example of love, strength, sacrifice, and grace.