Thankful Thursday

1. American soldiers who have given the ultimate price of their LIFE to protect our freedom.

Given that this week celebrates Memorial Day, it's only appropriate to point out that I am very thankful for those that came before me and served our great nation in battle and gave their lives for our freedom. I salute you, men and women in uniform - you truly are heroes.

2. Water noodles

My HOA's pool just opened up in May, so I just went for the first time last weekend. I have my water noodles in the garage all year, waiting for this moment. I headed over to the pool with my favorite yellow one and bobbed in the awesome water and exposed my pasty white skin to that strong Texas sun (with sunscreen, of course). Ah - it felt great!

3. Encouragement from a friend

It's so simple, but really very powerful. Just an encouraging word from a friend, right when you need it....it's priceless. And it's even better when they can just see that you need it even before you ask. That happened to me last week and it just made my whole day.

4. Trying something new

Ever since I moved to Texas, I have wanted to learn how to 2-step and do all of the Country & Western dances (line dancing, 2-step, etc.). When I go to Billy Bob's in Fort Worth and watch all of the seasoned veterans fly around the dance floor (with the cool saddle disco ball above), I just get jealous because I want to know how to do all of that!

Well, I bought the boots last year and now I am finally going to learn! My friend Cindy and I just signed up for a 3-week class on how to 2-step! It's the beginners class, so if I master the basics, I'm going to continue on to intermediate. I'm SO EXCITED!

5. Volunteering/Serving

This past Sunday, I was slated to do my regular duties as a greeter at church (1-2 Sundays a month). When I got there, they needed more help in Cafe Cristo - where they serve coffee, doughnuts, fruit, juice, etc. I had never served in that area before, but it was so much fun! They paired me up with one of the guys who knows how to work the Cafe and we got to work. I loved it and it felt good to serve and volunteer. There's just something about it.....