Cornucopia of Thanks (or Gratitude in a Goat's Horn)

There's something about the word CORNUCOPIA; the horn o'plenty.  It tickles the tongue and sounds corny but the cornucopia has long symbolized abundance. I'll be the first to recognize my life is overflowing with blessings.

I could reel off one hundred things to be thankful for but how do I express genuine appreciation? I enjoy being in the moment, taking the time to soak up whatever it is. I don't need much to be happy. Today I watched as a dove had a drink at the birdbath. Within another minute or so, she was taking a full bath on a 40 degree day. It was then I realized that while I've fed and watered birds for 30 plus years, I'd never seen a dove actually take a bath. That one small moment this morning has been in my mind all day. Within a minute of her dip the bath was full of birds. It was a delightful moment in an otherwise cloudy, damp and gray day. 

The Michigan temperatures have been above average for most of November providing additional moments of gratitude every time I step outdoors. Tomorrow I'll get my Christmas lights up. While I enjoy all the holiday colors, it's nice to think that maybe a passerby finds pleasure in them too.

So yes, I am thankful for many of the same reasons most are: employment [bonus: five minute commute,]  a home with a good roof, a car, three meals a day plus snacks, pets, books, baseball cards, music, a blog etc etc,  I may have only a couple of  'blood' family members left on this earth  - my sister and dad -  but I've made a family of friends over many years. 

I've chosen to surround myself with people who are kind. I don't have the time or patience for people who are angry and intolerant or live in a world of continuous self-created drama. Life will bring its own dramatic moments without seeking them out. Physical pain and heartache are part of life but without sorrow and loss, would we truly know the fullness of joy found in laughter or the touch of a loved one's hand? It may sound a bit sappy but these are the thoughts that live in my head.

And now, in this moment, I am thankful for you. A few of you supported my little blog from its beginnings in June of 2014. Somewhere along the way, the rest of you lovely and crazy people joined to keep me going. Your kindnesses and many generosities are not taken for granted. Your blogs entertain and educate, and often leave me thinking a bit bigger - outside the box - about the world we live in and share.  Thank you. I hope your Thanksgiving has been one of health and happiness. 

This is post number 194. I doubt I'll hit 200 by the years end but it is 2020. Nothing is off the table.

Until next time...