This time of year, I reflect on all the blessings in my life.
When we were growing up, my mother would give each person five kernels of popcorn on Thanksgiving Day, and we would go around and give one blessing we were thankful for until all the corn was in a large bowl in the center of the table.
As a child, sometimes it was hard to think up five things that I was thankful for, but not as an adult.
Here is my list for this year:
•My relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and the fact that I can worship Him openly
•My husband, Jim, my parents, brothers and all my extended family
•My caring, loving church family at both churches I attend
•That I live in a country where hard work pays off and we can achieve our dreams
•My adorable, amazing pets
I sometimes take blessings for granted, and I shouldn't. I am reminded of Bing Crosby's song about counting your blessings instead of sheep.
I am still writing Thanksgiving cards and then it will be on to my enormous Christmas card list. Next, I will begin the baking.
I hope that through the hustle and bustle of this time of year, in between baking and cooking, that you can think of your greatest blessings, take time to reflect upon them and give thanks for the abundance.
In addition, here's what's happening around our fair town:
•Thanksgiving Eve Service: 7 p.m. Nov. 26, Our Savior Lutheran Church, 171 W. North Ave., Crestview
•Thanksgiving Day Service: 9 a.m. Nov. 27, Mass at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 550 Adams Drive, Crestview
•Advent Service: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, Our Savior Lutheran Church, 171 W. North Ave., Crestview
•Crestview Christmas Parade: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, Main Street
I certainly hope to see some of you on my jaunts around town. If you see me, please say hello.
Janice Lynn Crose lives in Crestview with her husband, Jim; her brother, Robb; her two rescue collies, Shane and Jasmine; and two cats, Kathryn and Prince Valiant.
The former music teacher enjoys scrapbooking, sewing, playing the piano and studying the Bible.
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This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HAPPENINGS: A time to reflect on blessings