"These are the moments I thank God that I'm alive"

...and these are the moments I'll remember all my life. I've got all I've waited for...and I could not ask for more." This song keeps finding its way into my head. I have been keeping a Gratitude Journal and I gotta say, it has helped me so much. It allows me to really reflect each day on what I am grateful for and truly appreciate all the great blessings I have been given.

I have had these incredibly overwhelming feelings of love for my family. I am moved to tears pretty much daily when I think of them. Last night Greg said that Olivia's Primary (Church) teacher had called him on the phone. He said he wanted to share a special story with Greg. During their lesson the teacher asked the kids to say what they were thankful for. Some of the kids mentioned somewhat trivial things. Olivia raised her hand and said "I'm thankful for my mom. Because she does everything for us." The teacher said that he wanted to share it because he thought it was very sweet. He also said that Olivia is a great kid. As Greg was telling me this I just started bawling. I haven't always had the greatest relationship with her. I'm so mad at myself for wasting time (years even) disliking her. I always loved her, but at times I really did not LIKE her. But, I started praying about a year ago that I would be able to love her the way that Heavenly Father wants me to and SEE her the way that He would want me to. It has helped tremendously. More than just my perception of her has changed. She has changed. But possibly because my attitude toward her changed. My love for her has more depth than I ever thought possible. She is truly my hero. She is an incredible young lady. Someday I want to be like her. My heart is so full it feels as though it may burst. If you're not already, may I suggest that YOU keep a gratitude journal too? It will change you...and maybe it won't change things around you but it will change the way you see things.