The Thousand Gifts

Today in Small Steps for Catholic Moms, the ACT is to "Begin a gratitude journal. Each day, record in your own handwriting those things for which you are grateful. Buy a nicely bound book or a spiral sketchbook and some beautiful colored pencils. Take the time to become truly appreciative of God's gifts and aware of your calling in this life. Did you make a list of your hopes back in May? Thank God for his answers."

What better way to start then by joining in with Ann over at A Holy Experience and her list of a thousand gifts. Ann writes

"The Gift List is about gratitude… but it is more. It is about what defines me and my own personal identity. Reflecting on The Thousand Gifts List… “…cracking open a new book… pushing children on the swing…. old men looking at cards in the stationery aisle…” I am thankful for the things on it, yes, but I am also thankful that He has given the gift of me; that God made me who I am and I am one who sees and experiences the world in a way uniquely her own. The Thousand Gifts list is about the gifts Abba gives this child every day… and, ultimately, about the very gift of self, life as I know it."

Care to join me in beginning a list of a Thousand Gifts? These are in no particular order...

1. God...2. Greeting sleepy children in the morning...3. my husband...4. the relationships between older and younger siblings...5. Teenage Rayzor...6. the smell of cheerios on baby MC...7. responsible Joz...8. squeals from the baby when she sees her brothers and sisters...9. B-Rad's smile...10. early morning jog...

I will add to the list every Monday with Ann and hundreds of others who have also began their own 1000 Gift Lists.