During this time of year, more than any other time, our hearts and minds turn to the things we are thankful for. I wish people would do it all year long.

A past business coach of mine, Linda McLean, encourages her clients to start each day naming ten things they are grateful for before their feet hit the floor. It causes you to start the day off with the right attitude – an attitude of gratitude.

What am I grateful for this year? Oh, I am definitely grateful for the usual – a wonderful husband, great children, a loving family, good health and close friends. But even more than that, I feel God has blessed me with so much more.

I’m thankful for the men and women who have volunteered to serve in our armed forces, and sometimes lay down their lives, so that I can be free. I’m thankful for the grace and mercy my friends at church show to me when I screw up, which is more times than I would like to admit. And I’m thankful for my dear old dog who loves me no matter what – no matter what I look like, or how much I weigh, or how many treats I’ve given her – no matter what.

Take a moment and give it some thought. What are you thankful for?