Gratitude

Dear Diary:

Most days I probably spend too much time thinking and complaining about how many things in my life I wish were different. Then, around the middle of November, or during General Conference, I make a vow to be more aware of my blessings and have a better 'attitude of gratitude'. Well, for once I'm going to be pro-active and be thankful now. Like this guy.

A little piece of paper I've been carrying around for almost 20 years

**I have a husband who, without complaining too much, will sit through 'Irish-Dance-Camp Family Night'. He is supportive of anything the kids or I want to do. I am learning more and more that this is a trait that not every man possesses. Thanks, Zane!

Wilson and Zane, trying to keep themselves entertained at Dance Camp Family Night

**I have a son who is awesome. I am glad that God decided to not answer my prayer when I wanted to have a family of all girls. I think a few snakes and snails perfectly complement our sugar and spice.

And speaking of Wilson, here is a study in comparisons.
This is what I see when I look out into our yard:

This is what Wilson sees:

Do you see it? A crab spider attacking and eating a bee?

**I want to hug the girls who run Eliza's dance school every time I see them. Because Eliza is not easily impressed. She sees right through everyone and everything. She knows on a gut level if someone is real and loving and she responds to it. She adores her instructors and I appreciate these girls and the light they have given Eliza. Love this big smile from last night's water fight.

A more serious moment, just before going on stage earlier in the week:

**Did I mention how much I love my new camera and how, sometimes, when nobody is watching, I give it a little hug and a kiss? Here are some more moments of Celtic awesome-ness:

**Last night I was talking to Eliza and Wilson about how we say, "Thank you" when someone gives something to us, or does something for us. And we talked about whether or not we do that when our prayers have been answered. We have been praying for Granny Theresa to be safe, healthy and happy for as long as we can remember. Now she is safe, healthy and happy. To a degree we never dreamed. She is on cloud nine in her new little home. She walks to Roosevelt Market nearly everyday to pick up whatever she needs, and has become fast friends with her neighbors. Phew! *Thank you!*


**The Red Sox are playing beautiful baseball. Are you allowed to be grateful for baseball and cameras??

With the upcoming Independence Day holiday, (and the Relief Society lesson I'm teaching on the 4th!) I'm thinking more and more about our country and trying to appreciate my freedoms that I have never been without. I haven't ever been to Sierra Leone, Israel, or Baghdad. I don't know what it's like to not be able to go to church where and when I like. Or have as many children as I want. Or marry if, when and where I choose. So I am being extra appreciative of the things I have always known. I have been watching the History Channel series, 'America, The Story of Us' and finding myself getting emotional.

A few days ago (while I was in the shower) I remembered that I asked a friend a question two weeks ago and then got distracted--probably by a timer going off, a child being injured, something being spilled or a neighbor's dog running into my house...j/k...not really... And I realized that I had never heard her answer. So a *gigantic* feeling of gratitude for friends and family who love me, accept my failings and still love me. (Sorry Jayna, I really do want to hear about your new kitchen!!)

Wow. So much to be grateful for.