Tuesday Truth's

He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has. ~Epictetus

The truth is I'm guilty of a bad attitude as of late. Most my time and energy has been funneled into the pity party I've been having for myself. Life became all about what I didn't have, and everything sort of spiraled out of control from there. Although I can't take back what I've felt and the way I handled it, I can choose to remember all the things I do have and put myself back on the right track.

I'm grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and in particular, my patriarchal blessing. When I'm at my wits end, there is something powerful and motivating about having words of wisdom and guidance from a loving Heavenly Father who knows me inside and out.

I'm grateful for Motherhood. To say it has been a challenge, would be putting it lightly. There are days I swear my kids deserve more and that I could use a break from the monotony of it all. But as with most things in life, the good always outweighs the bad. I can't imagine not knowing the joys of feeling life stir in my belly, or the sweet smell of a newborn, or seeing and hearing their first grins and babbles. I love receiving good night hugs and kisses. I love the innocence and laughter that my children lend to my life. I love hearing them pray and "blessing" Heavenly Father for the beautiful day (no matter the weather or circumstances). I love the joy they radiate each and every morning. I love the individuality and personality quirks that each of my children possess, because it means there's never a moment where there isn't something to laugh or cry about.

I'm grateful for the gardening season. It never gets old watching a seed become something magnificent and wondrous. I love, love, love, having the opportunity to grow my own garden. I'm grateful that Derik just quietly lets me go overboard every year, and that he lets me pursue my passion for all things green! I love finding a new flower or vegetable to plant or try out each year. This year I found a bunch of new things to try, but these dragon wing begonia's have to be my favorite find.

I'm grateful for Derik who did the dishes and cleaned up the house for me last night, so I could finish putting my flowers and garden in. It was such a thoughtful gesture. Instead of standing in front of the sink, aching and tired, I got to come into a clean house and just take a soaker in the tub. It was AWESOME!

I have some of the best neighbors (with the exception of the crazy, weed-wacking, yard wrecking, one) I just couldn't be surrounded by better people. I knew Derik and I needed to move here, the minute I saw this place, and I now know why. I'm most grateful for all the help and support and friendships I've received since moving here.

I'm grateful for, shelter, protection, an income, a running vehicle, food, water, good health, good friends, a good laugh, a good cry, full day kindergarten, play group, cold medicine, hormone balancing cream, ibuprofen, and a hot bath.

I'm also grateful to belong to three great families, The one I was born into, the one I married into and the one that I get to help create. There has always been someone from amongst this group of people who has helped me along the way, and I feel especially blessed to love each of you and to claim each of you as a part of me and my life.

If you want to turn your life around, try thankfulness. It will change your life mightily. ~Gerald Good