This week's prompt is "grateful". When I first saw the word, I thought, great, this is easy. There is so much to be grateful for - my family, my health, being able to take walks outside in the sunshine, a job that has continued this year, friends, church family, etc. Then, as I was thinking more, I thought wow, that sounds like the same things I'm thankful for every year, and almost didn't write this blog. 

But as I was praying the Lord challenged me. What's wrong with being grateful for the same, predictable things? God has given me this life and I still need to thank Him and be grateful for ALL things, even if they feel small or "normal".

So, once again, I'm thankful for the "normal" things in a not so normal year. I'm thankful we were able to be with both of our daughters last weekend for Thanksgiving - we laughed, played games, and did some holiday decorating! I'm thankful for the new people I have met at work and the technology I have learned to use. I am grateful for the times I have spent at home on the weekends that have recharged me for the week ahead; time to read books and His Word, time to journal, and to just "be".

I am thankful to have found a new devotional to read during Advent on the YouVersion app written by Janelle Keith. It's called Twenty-One Gifts of Advent. So far I have read about the gifts of faith, rest, and Jesus' birth. I'm looking forward to unwrapping a new gift each day. 

Music has always been a gift; and now I am truly grateful for it during this season of waiting. It has lifted my spirit and I have found some new-to-me artists that have ministered light and life. Maverick City has led me to new places of personal worship. If you enjoy the sound of the Big Bands, check out Beegie Adair....she has several smooth and soothing piano albums! 

So, for what are you grateful as we navigate this Advent season and await the birth of our King? 

This post was prompted by Kate Motaung's "Five Minute Friday," which she hosts on the Five Minute Friday website. Kate posts a single word each week and each blogger sets a timer for 5 minutes to write and then posts, with little editing. (Some weeks I have more trouble with that part than others.) Check out the other writers on this topic!