Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Thankful Thanksgiving

In light of my recent trip to Bolivia I have compiled a fairly lengthy list of all I am grateful for this Thanksgiving time.  And, note that I am not complaining.  I am truly thankful for…

FAMILY, without them life would be pointless and less fun.

Hot, running water and lots of it.  There's nothing like being warmed by an abundant amount of hot, clean water.

Drinkable water and food you are not worried will make you sick.

Working, clean toilets and not having to pay for your square each time you need to use   
el bãno.

Warmth...feeling physically warm and the warmth of friendly people.  Spread the love people.  There are a lot of cranky people out there in need of a smile or kind word. 

The freedoms we enjoy in the US of A...and there are countless of them!  The Constitution of the United States of America is truly inspired and must be studied,  respected, treasured and protected. 

Warm hugs. Give and receive them often. 

Not feeling like you are going to die in the car each time you go somewhere (although there are clearly more injuries and deaths in the US due to the high speeds, but it's crazy how close they get to each other there!  That stress can't be good...but, I actually got use to it in my week there).

The ability to communicate with loved ones far away...Skype, FaceTime, texting, etc.

Wipes.  'Nuff said!

Hygiene.  Never underestimate the power of soap, water and essential oils. Oh and, again, wipes!

Clean clothes. 

Walking and climbing stairs without feeling like someone is sucking all the available oxygen out of your lungs and replacing it with fire.  12,000+ feet on this planet is a lot!  Our bodies are amazing.  Let's take care of them. 

TSA employees, Airline employees, Immigration agents and Customs agents that refuse to spread their bad day to everyone else.  Always give them a smile. That's gotta be a rough job.

Infrastructure and building codes. 

A sense of stewardship. I am grateful for the people and things in my life.  I will continue to teach my children the same and traveling is a great way to do that. 

Good health.

My ancestors (and all since) that crossed "the pond" in 1620 to help establish this amazing country for freedom of religion, not freedom from religion.  True God fearing, inspired, stiff upper lip, bravery.

Happy Thanksgiving!