The Big Three: Family Bonds

The world can be a crazy place. Sometimes it helps to step back and list a few of the things you’re grateful for. I’m making it a habit each week to list three blessings. Here’s what I’m grateful for this week, December 14-20.

What I’m grateful for:

—The family bonds. If you were able to see me right now, you would see the biggest silly smile on my face. For the next five days, my house will be bursting at the seams. People will be talking over each other. Luggage will be stored somewhere in the corner. The house will smell of deserts. It will be the best. My kids are all going to are home! Hallelujah. Throw in my son’s seven-month old bulldog puppy getting into who knows what kind of trouble and it will be the absolute best. Here’s to time with family.

—Anticipation. When I was a kid, I loved the days leading up to Christmas because of the gifts. I was a greedy little bugger, wasn’t I? It’s funny. Now I love it because of the kindness in the air. There’s still an air of anticipation, but now it’s about joy, hope, and love.

It’s taken me awhile, but maybe, I’ve grown a little. Anyway, the anticipation of the season always reminds me of the 1970s Heinz Ketch-up ads. They played Carly Simon’s song Anticipation in the background. And of course, the ads had the Heinz slogan, “The taste that’s worth the wait.”

Yes, Christmas is worth the wait.

—Peace and joy. I had to be somewhere this week. I was tired. I was probably thinking a bit too much about myself. I know I was wallowing in self pity over some things that haven’t gone my way. Of course, God or fate in it’s ever correct wisdom, put a tiny little toddler in my way.

I was in line to get a soda at the convenience store and a chatty little toddler waved to me. I so, so, so wanted to ignore him, but he looked so happy. Of course, I waved back and he gave me the biggest smile.

How could I not have a great day after that? Here’s hoping you have a great weekend.

What gave me a smile?

What made me smile this week. Of course, following your heart. It makes no sense, but following your heart usually leads to great places.