I am grateful for the smell of rain. Rain puddles are a gift from God.

I am grateful for the sound of thunder.

I am grateful for the sound of sizzling fajitas. I remember sitting in restaurants watching the next table receive their hot plates of sizzling fajitas, and we could never have it – too expensive. Now, to share a plate, especially on Fajita Wednesdays, is such a treat.

I am grateful that I am able to fall asleep and stay asleep.

I am grateful for sore legs that remind me I am exercising again.

I am grateful for my new counselor group.

I am grateful for lots of work to be done at the office.

I am grateful for lessons and activities on the dangers of stereotyping in my CASA training.

I am grateful for the anticipation I am feeling about seeing my Dad, Michelle, Roman and Vangie this weekend.

I am grateful that I have enough money in my account to get some long overdue shopping done tonight.

I am grateful that Sam will be able to spend the day with Max tomorrow for his 94^th birthday.

I am grateful for Delores’ reminder that God sees the big picture, the finished tapestry, even though we only have the limited view, the side with all the threads and ugliness. Every stitch, every step, even though difficult, is part of the design of our finished product. Thank you, Delores. What a great story and lesson for me – you must be so proud of that grandson.

And I am grateful for “pats on the back” from my bosses and co-workers.  My goal is to give some today. Everyone needs an “Attaboy!” at least a couple of times a week.