I love fall.  I love Thanksgiving. I love counting my blessings, and thanking my Lord for happiness, for struggles, for growth, for contentment, for life.

I was looking around the internet for poems and quotes about “being thankful” and found this little gem. It is very simply stated, but words of wisdom nonetheless:

Be thankful that you don’t already have
everything you desire.
If you did, what would there be
to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something,
for it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations,
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge,
Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes,
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary,
Because it means you’ve made an effort.

It’s easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfillment comes to those
who are also thankful for the setbacks.

Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles,
and they will become your blessings.

And now on to the smashing pumpkins part.

What do you get when you take your kids to the pumpkin patch very late in the season?  No crowds, more apple fritters for mom, and rotten pumpkins for my boys to smash.  ;) We had a great time a few weeks back visiting our favorite apple/pumpkin farm, and here are a few snaps to prove it.  But DANG I don’t know why I didn’t photo my coveted apple fritter….and now I have to wait a whole year to have them again!

My hope is that everyone is able to find a reason to give thanks today. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and enjoy some quality time with your families! We will be celebrating four times over the next few days, and I’m so looking forward to seeing my friends and family.  :)