28 things 1-10

I am embarking on another birthday. I must say, I look forward to my birthdays much more than I thought I would at this age. I think it's different now. It's not about the presents or the attention on me. It's all about people intentionally wanting to be with me or to connect. I love that. I love intentional relationships. As I get older, I think I value that more and more too.

So, I decided since I'm turning 28, I would make a list of 28 blessings (In no particular order)
We'll start out with 1-10 today.

1. Adam - This is so obvious, I know. But I cannot ever fail to mention him when I think about the blessings in my life. It's so incredible how God creates someone who compliments you in the exact ways you need it. I could not ask for a better husband, friend, supporter, partner, leader, giver, protector than him. 

2. My Redeemer - Again...so obvious. I have been completely humbled this last year. I have found forgiveness, freedom and peace in areas of guilt and restlessness. Daily, I am reminded of how much I am loved and how there is no one as gracious and patient with me as God. 

3. Family - (This includes my parents, in-laws, siblings and sibling in-laws.). Do you ever just look around at the people in your life and realize how much support you have and how people unconditionally love you despite your many flaws? I have recognized how incredibly blessed I am to have family and be married to family with such beautiful hearts. I know not everyone has such great relationships with their inlaws/extended family. I am so thankful for the ones in my life.

4. Hope - I have learned what hope is all about over the last year. I have learned hope through quality time with God. I have learned hope through my friends who have encouraged and spoken truth in my life. Hope is never ending and is always peeking around the corner...especially when you least expect it.

5. Emotions - Sometimes I think I am way too emotional. I saw "The Help" yesterday and felt like I was the only one in the theater crying. But I am thankful I can feel so deeply. I am thankful I have the ability to let things affect me. With that, I am changed, challenged and encouraged all at the same time. Emotions help me see my passions and help me to connect with others. I'm very thankful for that. 

6. Courage - I changed jobs this year for the first time in almost 6 years. I tend to like change, but this took a lot of courage. It was a leap of faith really. I believe I'm a healthier person because I took this leap. And I believe I am impacting others in new ways...ways I never thought I could.

7. Food - Some have heard me say, "The best meals are with food." I have no doubt that I love food. I love new food, good food, dessert food, raw food... FOOD period. But more than anything, I am thankful for each and every meal. I am thankful for the conversations that surround food. I'm thankful for the atmosphere food creates. It's incredible what can happen when food is present. 

8. Seasons - We are embarking on Fall and I cannot be more excited! I am thankful to experience all four seasons, here in Indiana. Fall is by far my favorite, but there is purpose in each season. 

9. Hamm & Beans - You may think I'm silly for being so thankful for my dogs, but they do something for me I can't explain. I suppose this is a glimpse of parenthood, but these rotten lil' thangs bring me so much joy. They provide comfort and snuggles as the most appropriate times and make me smile and feel loved so often. 

10. Now - Now, the present, right here... I am thankful to know what it means to be present and in the moment. I am thankful to have learned how to step back in a situation and be aware of all the great things surrounding me.  When I was watching Oprah's Behind the Scenes, I noticed Oprah's ability to do that in her last few shows. All she wanted was to be present and not miss anything.  I have the ability to be present. It's comes down to if I'm willing to do it. Sometimes it's easier not to. But I'm thankful for the encouragement of others to be in the moment...as much as possible.