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Counting my many blessings Thanksgiving column By DeLYNN HOWARD Staff Writer Thanksgiving isn't just about the turkey, stuffing, "Grandma Linda buns" and a nice big slice of pumpkin pie.
It's also not about preparing a bargain-hunting strategy for Black Friday.
Don't get me wrong. I enjoy all of those things with a fervor, especially the "Grandma Linda buns," which my mom is known for at our family gatherings. But we must not forget the most important thing about this food-filled holiday - giving thanks.
I'm sure people are thankful for many things and for many different reasons. During this holiday season I want to reflect on what I'm thankful for. I'm even willing to go so far as to put them in writing. Maybe my list will inspire others to count their blessings as well.
1. I have a job. In this economy, that is huge. You may not be thrilled with the position - maybe it's not what you had in mind for a career - but it's hopefully paying the bills.
Oh, I am thrilled with my job. Even though the newspaper business is suffering, I'm still thankful I'm with my Dispatch family, taking things one day at a time. Besides, my job allows me to occasionally do something I love, and that's write.
2. I still have my house and it's not in foreclosure. Is it my dream house? No. But it provides me with a place to lay my head down at night, it keeps me protected from the elements and it's filled with love and laughter. I can't ask for much more than that.
3. My health. For me, 2009 started out as a real pain - literally. In December 2008, I suffered two gall bladder attacks. (And by the way, I wouldn't wish that pain on anyone). So, on Jan. 6, I had my gall bladder removed. After my surgery, the surgeon said that my gall
See BLESSINGS, Page 5A
bladder was actually dying. What a horrible thought but it certainly explained the pain I experienced in the weeks prior to my surgery. I haven't had any issues since and for that I am very grateful.
I've also been on a weight loss journey since the end of May and have lost a total of 63.3 pounds. It's taken diligence and willpower, spearheaded by the grace of God, to get me to this point in my life. Where do I go from here? Who knows but I'm going to keep forging ahead. The possibilities really are endless.
4. I have a wonderful family. I hear so many tragic stories of families ripped apart by divorce, drugs or alcohol. I consider myself blessed to have never experienced any of that. My parents have been married nearly 37 years. My husband and I will celebrate our lucky 13th anniversary next May and my sister and her husband will mark their second anniversary in March. I am blessed with a niece and two nephews and the joy that comes with being an auntie is hard for me to put into words. I have aunts, uncles and cousins who live in Brainerd and I have the opportunity to see them often. I also have a wonderful extended family through my husband. Holiday gatherings and family reunions with the Howards are always memorable.
5. I have a fantastic circle of friends. I don't know what I would do without the support of these people. We've seen each other through joy and sorrow. The bond I have with these people seems to only get stronger as the years go on. I am blessed beyond words.
6. I have a terrific church family. My husband and I are affiliates of Christ Community Church in Nisswa. You won't find more down-to-earth people than those I worship with on Sunday mornings. Walking in the door, we are always greeted with a smile, a hug or a handshake or perhaps all three. We are blessed to call Christ Community our church home.
So, today and every day, remember what you're grateful for. Make a list if you have to in order to remind yourself how blessed you truly are.
Hope everyone has a blessed Thanksgiving!
DeLYNN HOWARD may be reached at delynn.howard@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5850.
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