We’ll give thanks to you with gratitude
For lessons learned in how to trust in you
That we are blessed beyond what we could ever dream in abundance or in need
– Nichole Nordeman

As Tim’s job searching marches into it’s third month and my job prospects are close to nil due to limited availability and the approaching birth of our little boy in May, there is so much that I’m grateful for.

I am grateful for our overseas trip and the timing of it all. I treasure all the things we did and places we went and I have no regrets, not one.

I am grateful that when we returned from overseas that someone generously gave us a car. Having only one car in this day and age is extremely difficult, but having no car at all isn’t really viable. What an incredible bless.

I am grateful for my lovely house and the air-conditioning we installed when we moved in all those years ago (dang it’s so hot at the moment).

I am grateful that although Tim is currently job-hunting, that we can spend this time together as a family. It’s a wonderful opportunity not to be missed or dismissed. I am also grateful that Tim has been able to pick up a few days of labouring work here and there. That little bit of money is a godsend. Really, I’m grateful for every dollar and I’m not over-exaggerating.

I am grateful for my family and the monthly lunches we have with each side. Lunches that are filled with laughter, deep conversations and a genuine interest in each others lives. I know how blessed I am.

I am grateful for my sisters who share the everyday stories, sympathize with me on the down days and laugh at the funny things Amy has done.

I am grateful for my friends who send me pictures of their clothes when they can’t decide what to wear, discuss how much coffee they’ve had and over-share about the weird things our bodies or minds are doing.

I am grateful that although I live in an expensive country that the public health system runs fairly well, our public schools are well funded, politicians are uncorrupted (as far as I know) and I don’t have to carry a gun for personal security.

Sometimes I’m grateful for the small things, like my brother making me a delicious coffee this morning. Other times, it’s for the bigger seasonal things that I am learning, like God teaching me about rest and that at times it’s necessary to slow everything down in order to dream again.

In a culture that teaches happiness is based on what we have or more often don’t have, it’s good to be grateful and I am ever so grateful!

Love Jess xxoo