Gratitude . . .

I've been reading a lot this week about gratitude. It's certainly made me think a little about those things for which I'm grateful. So I'm want to share some of those with you . . .

I'm grateful for sunsets and sunrises, Kathy, James and Kara, my new daughter (in-law) Shawnee, each of you -- my extended family, the Gospel, my testimony, my opportunity to serve in the Lord's kingdom, my health, Kara's speedy and complete recovery, the home where I can relax and escape from the world, our heritage in the gospel, our Mom and Dad -- who loved us unconditionally and totally and taught us to love each other, their commitment to doing what's right, my job and career, my community (that I love so much), clouds and storms (thanks to Kathy for teaching me to appreciate them), my sense of humor (Scifres corn as some of you call it) that lets me enjoy life even more, and the holidays (all of them) that I enjoy so much.

Well, I could go on and on. But, you get the message. Life is full of so many things that we should be grateful for. So, I challenge each of you to take a few minutes during the next few days and reflect on those things in your life for which you are grateful.

Well, enough of that. We're looking forward to Thanksgiving Day. We'll be at Carol and Steve's. There will be just be the two of them, Aunt Edna, Uncle Fred (Steve's uncle that lives with them), Kathy and I, Kara and Kathy's Mom -- Ganny. James and Shawnee are going to spend Thanksgiving with her Mom in Stillwater. They both have to work on Wednesday and Friday -- so felt it better to just stay close. James also has to work on Saturday.

Kara's already making her list for shopping on the big "Day after Thanksgiving Shopping Day". That's a really big tradition for her (and her Dad, I must admit). Kathy comes along -- because we insist she join us, but it's really a big deal for Kara and I.

We hope everyone enjoys Thanksgiving and everything that comes with it -- whether it be great food, great company, football, or a great nap after that great meal. We love you and wish we could all be together. Wouldn't that be great! Have a super day!

Karl and Kathy