Thankfulness

Last night I walked in to check on Amelia before heading to bed. But I saw things with a new perspective.  Normally I would look around and cringe at the mess all around her. Toys, clothes, etc. But tonight, instead of seeing the mess, I saw blessings. Instead of focusing on the mess, I recounted the memories from the day. I was reminded of how grateful I am that my kids have a safe, warm bed to sleep in, more toys than they need, and plenty of clothing to wear. I was overwhelmed with thankfulness.
I continued to look around. I saw multiple outfits thrown into a pile. But tonight, instead of being annoyed that her clean clothes were on the floor, I thanked God for my daughter's passionate nature. Her attention to detail. Her love of fashion. I glanced over and saw the piles of books that had been pulled off the bookshelf and I offered up a prayer of thanks for my wonderful husband who reads to my girls every night. And for Eloise's love of literature. I pictured her sitting there, pulling off books one at a time and carefully looking over each page.
Just as I was about to walk out, I noticed the tea party still set up. I saw each place setting and how it was carefully set up for each of us to enjoy.
Gratitude.
I'm guilty of letting these moments pass me by. Of focusing on the mess and the to do list rather than the blessings right in front of me. I often miss the moments you just can't get back. And so, as I kissed Amelia good night and pulled the warm comforter up over her shoulders, I asked the Lord to help me to be more alert. More aware. More in tune to His multitude of blessings. To help me have more perspective. Because there is just so much to be thankful for.