COVID Thanksgiving

Over Thanksgiving, I was down and out with COVID.  Even though I’ve been careful, social distanced and worn a mask, I still managed to get it.  And though it was a relatively mild case, I wouldn’t choose to do that again.  Even more than 20 days after I was diagnosed, I’m still fatigued and have tightness in my chest.  But while the weather is still mild (due to change this weekend) I have started taking short walks to build up my stamina again.  I’m thankful for both the break in the weather, and the ability to once again go for a walk.

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays.  I know for most (during normal times), it’s a time of family, football, and food.  But I like having a time of gratitude.  I like reflecting on all I have to be thankful for.  This year, I couldn’t make it off the couch.  But I still have much to be grateful for.
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• For Ron and Susie from church who brought us (and others) a feast for Thanksgiving.  
• That the virus (for me) was not severe.
• That Mike did not get it.
• That our pantry and fridge were well supplied when I came down with it.
• I’m thankful for the Dear Hank and John podcast that kept me occupied while I was sick and I was too dizzy to read or watch videos.  (Not everyone experiences dizziness with COVID, but I sure did.)
• I’m thankful for the different pace this year has been.  Because of all the shutdowns, it’s given me (and others) margins in my life…to think, reflect, pray, and ponder.
• I’m thankful for all the people praying for me.
• I’m thankful for Mike.
• I’m thankful for the studio.  A small house a mile from my home that I can maintain social isolation, get away from the house, and create in.  It’s been a life saver.
• I’m thankful for friends.  So very thankful for friends.
• I’m thankful for art materials.
• I’m thankful for online classes.  I was taking them before the quarantine, and I’ve continued through the year.  And while I’m pretty Zoomed out for a while, I’m also thankful for that platform.
• The biggest thing I’m thankful for is that God is faithful and kind and has been so very close to me through this in ways that's hard to describe.  But I am so, so thankful.  

There is an old hymn, Count Your Blessings.  The chorus goes “Count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your many blessings see what God has done.”  

I encourage you to take some time to practice gratitude.  It may surprise you.

Peace.