THE HOMEPLACE

Thanksgiving is over. The cornbread dressing is gone and the last of the turkey has lost it’s appeal. But I still have a great deal to be thankful for.

1. I’m feeling fine! After a stroke in April I have a new appreciation for good health.
2. I have an incredible support system. With my family, my church family, wonderful neighbors, co-workers, a writing community, and an array of other friends, my cup truly overflows in this area.
3. I’ve spent most of my life in a beautiful place. The Appalachian Mountains have it all in my opinion–mountains, trees, streams, wildlife, good people–I’m so fortunate to live where I do.
4. I get to write books that people actually read. I still can’t quite get over that. People read my books. Sometimes they even like them!
5. I love a wonderful man who has been by my side for 20+ years now. He loves me, but doesn’t let me get away with any nonsense (well, not much). Just the combination I need!
6. I have a lovely home, a good job, and a measure of financial security. Oh, I know, a dozen difficult things could happen to change that, but at the moment I’m blessed.
7. And then there’s the thing I’m MOST thankful for. I know how the story ends. No matter how hard it can get to count my blessings, no matter how many challenges come my way or how crazy the world seems–I know how the story ends. I flipped to the last page and have the assurance that the ending is beyond wonderful.

How about you? What are you most thankful for?