Grateful Friday

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Every Friday, as I publish the Grateful Friday post, I start the next week's post adding to it each day of the week until Friday.  I had started this one last Friday, long before I heard the devastating news of my beloved Mother's passing early Wednesday morning.  I have been hurting with disbelief and grief since.

Through it all, I have been so very grateful for the many, many friends; Star Wars friends, letterboxing friends, my congregation and my close friends.  Without them, I would have dissolved into despair without question.  My Mom was such a huge part of my life...a huge part of me.  I look forward to the day we will be together again - I miss her so much.  Even so, I am so thankful and grateful, beyond words, for all she did for me.  It's overwhelming to think about, to be honest.  Perhaps I'll leave that for another day.

I will share the grateful thoughts from prior to her passing, as they are important, as well.  It is good to be grateful.  Without gratefulness, life is shallow and empty.  At least, in my view.

I am so thankful for the enduring friendship of my dear friend Connie.  She is always so focused, uplifting, gifted and beautiful...not to mention humble.  I bless the LORD for her and her willingness to do whatever He directs.  I'm blessed beyond measure to know her and call her my friend.

I am grateful that my dog (who now lives with my Dad) is getting older and is becoming more mellow with age.  She is a lot easier to 'dogsit' when she isn't zooming all over the house causing havoc!

I'm grateful that I got to sleep last night - I went to bed really early and slept nearly eleven hours (I usually only get about six-ish). I get to feeling so empty, it was just so good to sleep and refresh.

I'm grateful for my Star Wars friends and for the fun time trooping the Puyallup Fair.  What an absolute joy!  I'm grateful for all the laughs and smiles, photos and stories shared, for all the fair-goers that appreciated our costumes and for all the excited children.  We all felt like rock stars!  I'm also grateful that the Fair is willing to give a donation to a children's charity for us to be there.  That makes it even sweeter.

I am grateful for the opportunity to blog - it's such a fun hobby for me.  I'm always amazed at how much I can learn by reading other blogs, participating in forums and researching online.  I am thankful for the information is afforded us through the internet.

I'm grateful for something to look forward to; traveling to Astoria to spend time with fellow letterboxers!

What are you grateful for this week?

Might I suggest you be grateful for your Mom?
I would love to hear stories about your Mom and why you are grateful for her...