Giving Thanks [part two]

Feeling very lucky. Looking forward to what this week has to offer, and to escape this upcoming weekend.


---- Day Six {November 6}: I give thanks to having a voice and being able to have some sort of say in a democracy that is not guaranteed to so many worldwide. It doesn't make everyone happy, but I think it is amazing to see how for one day, maybe even a week the nation comes together. Some celebrate, some are disappointed, but regardless they all take part in something that many people take for granted.

---- Day Seven {November 7}: I give thanks to a 14 hour work day. While the hours for one day may seem like a lot it didn't seem like I was there nearly that long. I am so very thankful for having a job that I enjoy, that brings me a peace of mind, and a great escape from the city outside that's waiting to eat me up.


---- Day Eight {November 8}:I give thanks to a quiet night in Holland with movies. It seems like ages since I have rented movies and snuggle up in my basement with a blanket and my rented movies. I was surrounded by my parents, and was able to visit with neighbors earlier in the evening. Sometimes it is the familiarity of what you know so well that gets lost in the hustle of every day life that it is nice to be able to come home and become grounded.

---- Day Nine {November 9}: I give thanks to a fun, yet laid back evening out with great ladies. Tonight was spent tasting different wines followed by a nice appetizer dinner in a candle lit restaurant. It was relaxing, but it was accompanied with great company. Women who are strong, passionate, and easy to talk with. It was truly a great evening out.

---- Day Ten {November 10}: I give thanks to gatherings. Tonight we all got together at my brother and future sister in laws house for a nice appetizer and wine party. Many good laughs shared. But my favorite part of it all was my whole family being together under one roof, at the same time.

---- Day Eleven {November 11}: I give thanks to all the men and women who serve our country and are continuing to enlist every day. Those who have given up their lives to protect ours, and who are not afraid of what their duty holds. A job that often goes unnoticed or un-appreciated. Thank you to all that step up to give us our freedoms every day.

---- Day Twelve {November 12}: I give thanks to silence. Something I learned months ago on a cliff in Dakar, but I sometimes lose sight of what silence can do for you. I sat and worked my heart out on all the work I have to get accomplished for this week at a coffee shop. I sat with music quietly playing. I then followed my evening making a dinner, eating it alone, and now adding the finishing touches on this post, in silence. Silence is seen as intimidating, for me it is cleansing, and there is not a soul that is intruding. I feel close to Him, safe, protected, loved, and not judged. That is beautiful. And it gets a lot of my work accomplished and brings me peace while doing it. 

Happy Monday Friends. Thanks for reading.