I’m feeling extremely blessed today. Yesterday’s message at church was about hope. We read from the book of James and discussed struggles we have faced, how your struggles may not be the same as my struggles, and how we find hope.

James 1:2-4

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

Today I am grateful for friendships. Yesterday I signed Klara out of school early and we had a playdate at the park. We sat under a shade tree and had a picnic lunch. The girls played while I had what felt like a therapy session. Sunshine, warm weather, lemonade, and conversation. I left that park feeling so incredibly thankful for those special people God has placed in our lives.

Today I am grateful for genuinely kind people. I received so many compliments at work today. Kind words, encouragement, and a whole lot of smiles as I was walking down the hallway. I have had more belly laughs than I can count this week.

Today, and every day, I am grateful for my kids. Both of our boys brought home honor roll letters and Klara’s teacher pulled me into the hallway and told me how much help Klara is in the classroom. She asked if it would be okay if Klara went with one of her classmates to PT during the school day because the little boy loves her and she seems to think that having Klara there would be more calming for him. She said such kindhearted things about Klara and Jordan and I as parents that made me tear up. Those three kiddos are my world and I am so proud of them.

Today I am also grateful for family vacations. Vacation month is finally here and we can’t wait! Today I bought the kids new swimwear and jotted some things down on my bucket list. We’re praying for a safe and fun trip!

What are some things you’re grateful for today?