I find myself in a cranky mood lately, a bit of a funk that’s hard to shake. There are lots of things in my world that have frustrated me. A new heat pump installed on October 21st has yet to be connected to the electricity by the company, so it’s useless. And it blocks part of the view out my favorite window (I could cry). A new iPhone that seems to be impossible to return – despite the mobile company’s claim. A car (Hannah’s) has issues that the dealership cannot figure out (long story). A house in disarray because my remodeled kitchen island is not yet complete, and half of Hannah’s belongings are in the hallway.

Yet there are so many things to be thankful for this year. It’s been almost a year since mom became ill. Two hospital stays. A life-saving surgery most doctors said was too risky. Rolling with the punches as new health issues pop up. That I get to call her today to wish her and dad a Happy Thanksgiving today feels like a miracle. I’m grateful that my youngest brother and his family live close to mom and dad when I’m so far away.

On the homefront, a biopsy for Paul came back benign. Hannah moved back home a couple of weeks ago into her old room. She left behind a displeasing first rental apartment and is saving money to build a cottage of her own next year. I finally accepted that working two jobs (that I loved) besides my businesses was too much. Instead of working two part-time jobs, I left one and picked up more hours at Women for Healthy Rural Living. It’s a much healthier pace that gives me more time to focus on my family and community.

I’m grateful to have this beautiful place to call home. Work that I enjoy. A family who loves me and critters that worship me.

So here’s to shaking off that funky mood and embracing all I have to be grateful for.

Happy Thanksgiving!