GratefulMo Wrap-Up

It's been pretty quiet around this blog since I wrote my most recent gratitude post. Gratitude has remained a central theme in my life, but I've been meeting myself coming and going at both home and work for the last week or so, and haven't made the time until tonight to sit down and wrap GratefulMo up with the little bow it deserves.

Regular readers probably noticed a pretty consistent theme to my gratitude postings: I'm most grateful for family, safety, comfort, harmony, the simple joys of our everyday routines. This cozy little family life is clearly in such marked contrast to the news from elsewhere in Iowa lately where many people have lost loved ones and homes and businesses to the tornadoes and floods that have ravaged our state.

It goes without saying that these calamitous events have reminded me to appreciate my many blessings. I've also been thinking lately that it doesn't seem quite adequate just to count my blessings; the best way for me to demonstrate my gratitude is to share my blessings with others. We're not a rich family by any means, but I'm grateful that we have a few extra dollars we can share with those who need our help. I've also found lately that it feels good to experiment with giving more. We've always given a small amount each month, but I've sometimes been a little stingier than I want to be. I like stretching to see if we can give until it hurts just a little bit.

With that in mind, if you're interested in helping Iowans in need, here are a couple organizations that could use the help:

• American Red Cross - I've read lately that their disaster relief fund is in bad shape and really needs our help (of course, this fund helps not just Iowans, but people affected by natural disasters around the world)
• Iowa Artists Relief - Thanks to Heather for spreading the word about this fund to help Iowa artists and musicians who have lost equipment, tools, portfolios, studios, everything these self-employed artists need to sustain their livelihood.

I've also wanted to practice gratitude as a family, so at dinner time each night we've started sharing things we're grateful for. Of course, Jack doesn't quite understand the concept, and has taken to responding to the question, "Jack, what are you grateful for?" with the same answer he hears his almost-twelve-year-old sister Jo give to most questions: "Nuffing!"

I couldn't be more grateful for the children in my life who keep me on my toes and always remind me not to take myself too seriously. 

Comments

[Christi]

Also for anyother Fairfielders reading. First National Bank is collecting clothes donations until June 30th. Terrell and I spent a good portion of our day going thru our closets. I'm grateful we have a way to help even though it isn't monetary.

[Yogamum]

Hey Missy, you won the Google Dinner challenge! Email me (yogagumbo at sign gmail dot com) to claim your prize!!

[Mia]

There are so many great things I am greatful for. I am most greatful for my family and the gifts that we all share we are all good at.