Wednesday, July 08, 2009

Thankful Thursday... a day early

Wow... a day early! I feel so on-the-ball. Because I am going to start my Hang Up Give-Away tomorrow, I thought I'd post my Thankful Thursday post a day early...

What moved me this week?

My husband. He's such good man. He's the kind of guy that would gladly rearrange his schedule to help a family member, a friend or a stranger. Earlier this week one of our neighbors became ill and was hospitalized. We found out about it a day later when her companion called and asked if I could pick her up from the hospital as she was being released that day. Weeks ago I had scheduled an appointment that morning for my daughter, her fiance' and I to meet with the florist to make arrangements for their wedding. It wasn't possible to change that appointment, so my husband rearranged his schedule and transported our neighbor home. Later that day he picked up our son-in-law at the airport because I was otherwise occupied. Daily he tries to make my life easier by being of service to me, and he often serves friends and strangers with a smile on his face and a happy heart. He moves me with his thoughtfulness.

What surprised me this week?
I'm always surprised by the fact that "stopping and smelling the roses" can be so invigorating and uplifting! I have a dear friend who visits with me about once a month. She usually comes over to my home and we catch up on all the latest in our lives. A couple of weeks ago we planned a luncheon date and we met today at a favorite restaurant of ours. I have felt a little harried lately, trying to plan and arrange all the events and festivities of our daughter's wedding next month. It felt so good to sit and relax and chat with a good friend. I truly think some of life's sweetest blessings come from friendships.

What inspired me this week?
On the 4th of July we had an outing at a lake a few blocks from our home. We packed up the kayak and some breakfast and headed over to the lake. A couple of us rode our bikes over, so those of us who weren't in the kayak could be riding around the lake on the bike trail. It couldn't have been a more beautiful morning. Green grass, purple mountains, blue water -- one of those picture-perfect mornings that makes you glad you're alive. I am inspired by and grateful for the beautiful land we live in!