Giving Thanks Challenge

I have so much to be thankful for, but my life has certainly had its share of sadness and difficult times.  However, when I look at the big picture, the wonderful things, have way outweighed the bad. I know that I said no more new challenges in 2010, BUT this one does not involve reading books. 

The challenge just involves some introspective reflection, and what a perfect time of year, to reflect on the year, and on our life in general. Leah from South Breeze Farm is hosting this challenge, but I actually learned of this one from Hello, My Name is Alice.

The challenge is simple.....(30) days in November, (30) reasons to feel thankful -- (1) each day of the month. If you decide to join, a few days into the month like me, just catch up.

November Thankful List

1. I'm thankful for everyday new day. (Life is just so short and unpredictable).
2. I'm thankful for good health.  (I lost one brother to heart disease and the other one to cancer. My mother died of cancer as well)
3. I am thankful that I was blessed with (2) healthy babies. (Both are now healthy adults who make me incredibly proud)
4. I am thankful for my loving husband. (3 times is a charm; he adores me and I feel totally loved)
5. I am thankful to have a job that I like. (bibliophile and library job makes for a good fit)
6. I am thankful for a nice home in a safe area.
7. I am thankful for our pets. (being able to give a nice home, and food to (4) cats that could have remained homeless, makes my heart glad.)
8. I am thankful for having more than enough food. (it's a good feeling to give extra to the less fortunate at this time of year) 
9. I am thankful for my freedom. (Thanks to all the brave men and women who risk their lives to keep us safe) 
10. I am thankful for the change of seasons. (looking forward to the first snowstorm.....weekend preferred)
11. I am thankful to America's Veterans. 
12. I am thankful for free access to some wonderful public libraries.
13. I am thankful for technology advancements (when I was 10 year's old, a transistor radio and a calculator were huge --now, I think, how would I live without my computer and iPhone --what's next?) 
14. I am thankful for 60 degree weather in New England in November (this weekend was gorgeous)
15. I'm thankful for hot baths and fine wine.
16. I am thankful I have had a chance to visit (27) states, and (6) countries
17. I am thankful for my sense of humor. (it's helped so much in work and rough times)
18. I am thankful for having more than enough.
19. I am thankful for a warm fire on a cold night.
20. I am thankful that our cat Buddy's vet visit today cost us $250, instead of $1,100 like last year.
21. I am thankful for individuals who help with animal rescue. 
22. I am thankful for having an introspective nature.
23. I am thankful for living my life without any regrets.
24. I am thankful to have lost another 1.5 lbs this week (14 lbs in 9 weeks). 
25. On this Thanksgiving Day, I am thankful for family, friends and you.
26. I am thankful for (3) more days off from work. 
27. I am thankful for being here today to celebrate my son's 33rd birthday. 
28. I am thankful for not having any stress in my life recently.
29. I am thankful for having all the desserts gone from our house. 
30. I am thankful for wildlife (critters big and small).