Last week our six-year-old wanted me to see how accomplished he’s become at fixing his own bed. Before he had struggled with wrestling all those winter layers into place, but now wanted to me to see how well he can do it. “Watch and be amazed,” he said in his most dramatic voice.
I watched and was amazed – at how much he’s changed since August 2010. It’s rather gratifying – yes, even amazing – to watch one’s children grow in their skills and talents. It’s a shame that I don’t pause more often to be amazed, to be thankful for abundant blessings.
As I reflected on the past year, there have been many reasons to “be amazed.” I’m especially thankful for
meaningful work that gets me out of the house enough to prevent boredom
the 800 books people gave to share with refugees
our two part-time salaries, which have consistently provided enough money to pay all the bills – plus some extra to rebuild our emergency fund
my column on local food
thoughtful, generous friends and family who have offered encouragement and support of many kinds throughout the past year
