A pretty cliche sort of post for Thanksgiving, right? But what else am I supposed to do? After all it is a good opportunity to stop and be reminded to give thanks, and since Thursday is my regular post day, why not share it with all of you?

So, without further ado, and in no particular order…

I’m thankful for my home. It may be small but it’s my own place. It’s safe, beautiful, and ultimately just the right size for us right now. I love it.

I’m thankful for my books. I’m so grateful that I was able to release two books this year, and that both of them have struck a cord with readers–October in particular wasn’t easy to put out there, and seeing how God has used it already to touch hearts is such a blessing as a writer.

I’m thankful for my husband. He’s not perfect, either, of course. He drives me crazy sometimes. He leaves his laundry on the floor and insists on eating grated Parmesan cheese right out of the can. But he’s sweet, caring, and a good provider–he prays with me, he makes me laugh, he helps me remember that it’s okay if I’m not perfect all the time. He may not be perfect, but he’s completely perfect for me.

I’m thankful for my struggles and addictions, past and present. I wouldn’t have come to the place where I am in my walk with my God without them, and I also wouldn’t be able to feel the level of empathy that I do for others who are struggling. It’s a gift I may not always enjoy, but I am truly grateful.

I’m thankful for good food. Maybe a little shallow, but sometimes that little bit of chocolate, that Chick-Fil-A splurge, or that hearty meal of turkey, zucchini, and rice just makes the day a little brighter!

I’m thankful for both of my families. For my birth family, who I get to spend today celebrating with and who I love with all my heart, and for my new in-law family who I’m still getting to know and who have already meant so much to me.

I’m thankful for my church. It’s amazing to be able to be a part of a place that is so bold and so dedicated to the Lord and to serving His people.

I’m thankful for Spotify. Yes, after years of resisting it my husband added me to his account and forced me to try it, and it’s been great to be able to track down and listen to all my favorite music from over the years as well as some new discoveries!

I’m thankful for all the audiobook jobs I’ve been able to do this year. After so many years of trying unsuccessfully to get an audiobook production freelance business off the ground, I’ve been swamped with work the past few months and already have more jobs lined up for next year. I love doing it, and the extra income helps so much!

I’m thankful for my new life in Christ. I may be grateful for where my struggles have brought me, but I’m even more grateful that my old self is behind me and that my new self is able to walk with Him, albeit imperfectly, every moment of every day. I owe everything to Him, and I rejoice in the freedom of knowing that He is pleased with me.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. I’m thankful for all of you!

What are you thankful for?