Four Years of My Daily Gratefuls: An Update to the Blog

I realize that it has been about a month and a half since my last post. I've also realized that I started this blog four years ago today. My hope back then was to produce short, daily posts, knowing that sometimes I would have to skip a day or two.

The reason for my recent absence here is I've started to feel the burden of writing daily (or almost daily) blog posts. When I commit myself to something, I feel quite guilty if I don't hold myself to my word. When I miss a few days due to a busy life schedule, I often feel I have to make up the time, and it's not a pleasant feeling. It's hard for me to imagine what it must be like to make a living as a blogger or YouTuber. In short, it's hard to keep a daily blog, and I've felt that more recently.

My purpose behind this blog has been to demonstrate that we each have something to be grateful for every single day. I wanted to make a positive, uplifting contribution to the internet, even if a small one. I never expected to have an audience much larger than my family, my friends, and anyone else who stumbles upon the page. I never expected much feedback or recognition because I just wanted to quietly prove something that I adamantly believe: that no matter how unfortunate you are on any given day, you can find some bit of good around you or within you.

I feel I have given a convincing four-year demonstration of my point. I also don't want to feel overly obligated to this simple, voluntary project. This is why I've decided to stop worrying. This blog will remain a place for me to occasionally share things I'm grateful for, but I will stop committing to a daily schedule.

That being said, if any of you readers have thoughts, insights, or suggestions for this blog or what I've done here these past four years, I welcome feedback. More than that, I invite anyone who has read anything in this blog to share how it has affected them, if at all. I've often been curious about people's reactions to what I write here.

To family, friends, and anyone who has reached out with a comment or otherwise, thank you. I hope everything I've written here thus far (and anything I may add in the future) will bring you joy on any rainy or stormy day.

I am grateful for four years' worth (and counting!) of gratefuls in my life. :)

Bedtime Stories

I have many memories of my dad sharing improvised, hilarious bedtime stories with me and my siblings. I also remember staying up late to read books like the Narnia series and A Wrinkle in Time. I look forward to reading and telling stories to my own children.

My wife recently had the brilliant idea of reading books to each other before we go to sleep. I like that. This will get us in that great habit when kids start to arrive. Besides, I like reading books out loud. I think I would have a lot of fun being an audio book narrator or a participant in a radio drama. I like acting, especially voice acting.

I am grateful for bedtime stories, past, present, and future.

Happy (Work) Anniversary!

Yep, I have an anniversary, my workplace and I. I have been working at my job for one full year. Only a few dozen more of these until retirement! Really though, I am grateful for the job I have, for the opportunities it has presented me, and for all the positive changes I've seen among my co-workers in this past year.

I am grateful for a work anniversary today.

In-Laws

I spent part of Mother's Day at church, worshiping God and then looking after kids in nursery during Sunday School classes. I spent the next part of the day in a group video call with my siblings, and we all wished my mother a happy Mother's Day. Then, I spent the rest of the day visiting my in-laws, enjoying dinner and company until evening came.

I have, on this blog, given well-deserved praise to members of my own family. I don't think I've as yet expressed my gratitude for my in-laws. I am grateful to have more wonderful family in my life than ever before. I am grateful for more loving, hilarious siblings and more supportive parents. Even while I was dating my wife, I only felt welcome in her family's home. I always felt I could be comfortable with myself. I am grateful for that. I know that's not what everyone experiences, but I think we can all see that a larger family can be a blessing. Additionally, I try to be just as good an in-law to others as well (that is, family members related to the spouses of siblings).

I am grateful for my in-laws. :)

Two Friends Marry Each Other (Finally)

Today, I got to attend the wedding and reception of two good friends. These were two friends that I and many others have been shipping (shipping: verb, wishing and hoping that two people, real or fictional, will end up together as a romantic couple) for several years. In fact, these friends were instrumental in getting me and my wife to meet each other for the first time.

The wedding was a lovely and modestly extravagant affair. I love everything a good wedding stands for. I am grateful for the joyous occasion of the wedding of two best friends to each other.

The Shirt Fits Again!

I have been working hard on my nutrition these past few months. My goal is to reach a certain weight (and of course to gain lots of other health benefits, such as more energy and less sickness). For more than a year (maybe two, maybe more), I've had a bunch of clothes that I really liked but didn't fit me very well. Since I've lost weight in the past few months, I tried one of the shirts and...it fit very well! This is an accomplishment I've been trying to reach for quite some time.

I still have a ways to go with my health, but I'm certainly on the right track. :)

I'm grateful a good shirt fits again.

In the Mood for an Apple

Here's gratitude for another very small thing. Most of my dinners at home emphasize cheese and meat, or otherwise high fat/low carb dishes. Today, my stomach wasn't feeling the best (I think from sugar earlier in the day), so I didn't feel like meat or cheese of any kind. Instead, I had an appetite for an apple. It was perfect: not too strong, not too sweet, just right.

I am grateful for the apples we bought from the grocery store today. They were just what I needed for dinner tonight.

On the S-pot Cooking

Sometimes, I like to follow recipes. Sometimes, I like to make up my meal as I go along. What I really like about this second type of cooking is the fact that I've noticed my meals made this way more often end up being quite tasty.

You might say this is on-the-spot cooking, or on the s-pot (get it? on the s-pot because I'm using cooking pots...oh never mind.)

I am grateful for experiences that involve spontaneous cooking.

It Feels Good to Be Liked and +1-ed

I'm not generally very active on social media except for posting these blog posts. I also don't make daily check-ups on who is liking and viewing what I write here. This is simply because I don't write for popularity or recognition, but because I like to write and I do so in the hope that this content may make the internet a little bit brighter and better...at least for me.

That being said, I do like seeing the "likes" and the comments. There are some people (usually family members) who are more consistent readers of this blog. But sometimes I am pleasantly surprised to see Facebook likes or Google +1 votes from unexpected friends or even complete strangers. I won't deny that it always feels good to be "liked" or "voted up," even if it isn't what I'm asking for directly.

So, thank you to all who read and especially to those who react. I am grateful for the social media reactions I see on this blog. :)

Same Job, With a Twist!

I love the English language. I love editing and proofreading, endeavoring to find ways to improve someone's writing and communication. I also love to work with wonderful, geeky people each day. All the best, greatest fandoms you can think of, I or my co-workers are into it and talk about it.

I will say, however, that my day-to-day duties can often feel monotonous. This is simply because I have so far been assigned one task to complete each day, many times over.

This is why I leaped at the chance to take on some other responsibilities when I could. That's what happened to me today. Today, I was able to receive some additional duties at the front desk at my work place. I've worked at front desks before, in a library, and I loved it! My primary job is still as an editor, but now I get to spend some time each day working the front desk while I edit on the desk computer.

I am grateful for an opportunity to get a change of pace to my normal duties, and I'm grateful I was able to take the opportunity when it came.

How Mexicans Celebrate Halloween

As always, as I write, keep in mind that I write according to my understanding and experience, accompanied by some light but reputable internet searching.

I am grateful for Day of the Dead as celebrated in Mexican culture because, in my perspective, it is a refreshing approach to the Halloween season. I express gratitude for it now because for afternoon breaks at work, we're watching the animated film, The Book of Life, as a way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

Now, I am aware that Cinco de Mayo is really more of an American holiday celebrating Mexican culture in general, but most of my small team of editors happen to be white Americans, so happy Cinco de Mayo! Hurrah for Mexico! (no sarcasm or belittlement intended)

Anyway, in America, Halloween is a fun holiday that involves costumes, candy, parties, and haunted houses (for those who like that sort of thing). But in Mexico, that same time of year is a day of honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed on. It is also incredibly colorful, and it translates very well on an animated film like The Book of Life. As I understand it, Day of the Dead is not spooky at all. Everything about it seems to be overly colorful, festive, and positive. There is nothing creepy about it, and I find that to be a very refreshing interpretation of the Halloween season.

When a Family Member is Ill

Today, I am grateful for times when a family member becomes ill. By "ill," I mean something like a common cold or a bad headache for a day or so, something that's only bad enough to make a person want to stay in bed for most of one or two days.

For me and my wife, today was one of those days, but things are looking better. As bad as a minor illness sometimes is, I am grateful for the opportunities they present to show extra love, to learn and demonstrate extra compassion and kindness. It's often the little challenges (and most big ones, to be sure), that give families a chance to come closer together.

Pirates On Stranger Tides

Have I expressed gratitude for this already? Does that matter?

Anyway, I finally, finally, got to see the fourth movie in the Pirates of the Caribbean series, On Stranger Tides, today. I like the Pirates movies (even the third one, despite a plot as twisted and convoluted as the giant whirlpool at the end), and I love the original Disneyland ride. I'm excited to see the fifth Pirates movie later this year, but I figured I needed to see the fourth one first.

It was a fun film, every bit as ridiculous, surprising, and entertaining as the ones before it. I especially appreciated this one scene with the skeleton on the bed looking at a map through a magnifying glass. The pose of that skeleton came straight from the Disneyland ride. I also remember that on the ride, the magnifying glass was positioned such that as you ride by on your boat, the skeleton's teeth look bigger through the glass. A really cool effect.

Anyway, I am grateful for Pirates of the Caribbean. All of it. Including the fourth movie.

Websites for Fanfiction

My wife has recently had some small success with a fanfiction piece she's been updating weekly online. She seems to have a pretty consistent group of readers for her story, and it is exciting to see other people react to it.

Naturally, this inspired me to start writing a fanfic of my own. Now, I don't expect the same success my wife has been enjoying, but I suspect I will have fun writing it. That is why I am grateful for website platforms (Fanfiction.net, Wattpad, etc.) that provide a suitable place for fanfiction.

Old Solid Oak Furniture

Shortly after my parents got married, they got an oak table and chair set for their kitchen. This is the set that I've used all my life until I left for college. My parents took the table and chairs with them when they moved. Then, they got a newer and better set, and decided to give the old one to me and my wife. Now, I'm still using the same table and chairs I grew up with.

Even more impressive, it's all still strong and solid. Sure, the finish isn't the best, and there are many scratches if you look closely, but it's all still working—after more than 25 years.

I am grateful for old solid oak kitchen furniture.

Walk Breaks at Work

Occasionally, afternoon breaks at work involve a short walk around a couple blocks with other co-workers. It is enjoyable and a great change of pace (literally). Although the sun and fresh air is initially a shock after hours at a computer desk, I always welcome this type of break.

As an added bonus, I get to play Pokemon GO while walking outside (yes, I still play that awesome game).

I am grateful for walk breaks at work.

Playtesting Tabletop Games

It should come as no surprise that I love tabletop games, old and new. In addition, I love to playtest new games of all kinds. Of course, I never get paid to playtest games (though that would be awesome), I still find it a very fulfilling type of work (play?).

I have had some recent opportunities to playtest some games, which is why it's on my mind now. (Also, I'm aware that National Tabletop Day is this Saturday). I won't go into specifics about the games themselves, but I will say that it plays right into a strength I've always had since I was a kid: I love to read game instructions. I like knowing just how a game is supposed to go so I can take the lead in explaining it all in simple terms for everyone else.

Also, playtesting helps me to be a better critic. It is easy for me to focus on the good of anything, but it's often hard for me to notice many areas of possible improvement. Playtesting tabletop games helps me to look for ways to make a game more fun or understandable.

I am grateful for opportunities to playtest tabletop games.

When Someone Else Sees What You Always See

I had a busy but wonderful Sunday today. One thing that happened was a visit from my aunt and young cousins. They had never been to my home since I've been married so I was excited to see them again and to show off the home to them.

I love my current home, and yet I think I've forgotten—in even a small degree—how blessed I am to live in it. My aunt had many good things to say about the place and I realized that I truly am very blessed to live where I live (of course, being married also makes living somewhere a lot better, at least for me). I enjoyed seeing my home through new and grateful eyes.

I am grateful for a chance to see my home through someone else's eyes.

Today Felt Like Friday...But Still On A Thursday

Normally, I like Fridays the most. But this week I was really looking forward to Thursday, today. Two reasons: First, my wife and I attended a brief but uplifting church-related meeting after work today. Second, game night with friends (specifically, Dungeons & Dragons). It felt like a Friday today.

I am grateful for days that feel like Fridays.

Now, I know it can be depressing to think it's Friday when it's not, but I think it's great to have otherwise normal days feel more special sometimes. I prefer to focus on the good. :)

QA

QA here stands for Quality Assurance. I know it could mean many different things for different companies and organizations. In my workplace, Quality Assurance refers to a task done by one of my direct supervisors. Each week, my direct supervisor looks over a sample of my work and provides helpful feedback. It can be easy for me to get into a simple and overly-efficient routine with my editing work. So, weekly quality assurance helps me see where I fall short and allows me to get back on track.

I am grateful for the QA (Quality Assurance) work done by my co-workers.

Cast Commentary on DVDs

I've been watching the extended edition of The Lord of the Rings on DVD these pas few weeks (a little here, a little there). I've seen all of it by now, but now I'm about to finish it all again—with cast commentary. It is fascinating! I love hearing how such great films are created, and few films have such complex processes or sincerity in the work as the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films.

Also, listening to the cast talk comment on the making of the film at times brings me back to my high school acting days. Those were the days when I experienced a sample of what professional actors do in their work. I remember the silly and the meaningful interactions I had with directors, technicians, and fellow cast members.

I am grateful for cast commentary of DVDs (particularly on The Lord of the Rings).

The Prince of Egypt

The title refers to the film produced by Dreamworks, the most popular animated adaptation of the story of Moses in the Old Testament of the Bible. I watched it again tonight and was again impressed with its sincere and mostly believable interpretation. Of course they take some artistic license, but the dramatic relationships between the main characters (especially Moses and Ramses) are extrapolated from what can be found in the Bible.

Not to mention the music. It is very well done, throughout the entire film, and does a fantastic job of setting up the drama or the relief when appropriate.

In summation, the film has given my generation a new way to look at the Moses story, as well as any other story in revealed scripture. I am grateful for Dreamwork's film, The Prince of Egypt.

Nursery Workers at Church

For those unfamiliar with church services for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there are three one-hour blocks. The congregational meeting is usually the first hour (with the sacrament/communion), while the other two hours are taken up by various religious classes for various age groups and interests. One of those classes is nursery, where toddlers (ages 18 months to 3 years) go before they are old enough for Primary-age classes (ages 3 through 12).

I have never seen a nursery class since I was young enough for nursery myself, until today. They needed more volunteers to watch over the children during activities, snack time, and the brief lesson about Jesus Christ. My wife loves to help, and somehow I got volunteered as well. I didn't do very much except participate in the singing and games, as well as making sure the kids stayed safe and were having fun. For the most part, the kids weren't too rowdy. Still, I have now seen for myself what nursery workers at church do, and my respect and admiration for their service has grown tremendously.

I am grateful for nursery workers at church.

How I Know the Weekend Has Arrived

My wife and I love spending time together, but we don't always go on formal "dates." Sometimes, just sitting by each other is enough. Still, it is nice to do something a little extra to sort of "celebrate" the start of a new weekend. What we usually do is go out for dinner somewhere. Anywhere from fast food to a nice sit-down place. Just the act of eating out feels great, and one reason for that is it just feels like a weekend. It's almost a reminder to us that it's finally Friday night, and we can start the fun things we have planned for the next couple of days.

I am grateful for going out to eat on Friday evenings.

A Bubble Wand for My Sister

This post is about a piece of Disney merchandise that I bought for someone else, lest you read my previous post and "pin" me as selfish or too much of a Disney fanatic (though I'm fairly close to that status, I'm sure). In a recent visit to Disneyland, my family and I noticed one particular toy that showed up all over the place. Little kids everywhere were playing with this bubble wand. It was a plastic wand with bubble solution in it. It makes sounds and lights as you push a button, all while a continuous stream of little bubbles erupt from the wand. We'd see one of these every few minutes (at least, it felt that way). The occasional harmless distribution of bubbles actually made Disneyland feel a little more magical, if you can believe it.

My sister, who is old enough for college, mind you, said out loud that she wanted one. So, I decided to buy her one as a surprise. Like everything else at Disneyland, it was a little expensive, but an even $20 was a great price for the reaction my sister gave when I presented her the present. She was beaming. Seriously, if Disneyland were any more magical, she would have glitter and rainbows coming out of her ears. She was surprised, and that reaction was truly priceless.

Man, those bubble wands. Magical. I am grateful for Disneyland bubble wands.

Disney Pins

After spending a month and a half focusing my blog on American presidents, I now have to get used to coming up with something to mention here.

Let's see...what am I grateful for today?

Oh yes, Disney pins!

I don't go to Disneyland often, but when I do, I buy and trade Disney pins. I noticed some really near Star Wars pins in my last visit there and got some of those. I don't know what it is about pins, but they're something I like to collect. I find it fun to hold cool-looking emblems and characters in my hands. Some of the Star Wars pins even looked like the what an X-Wing or Tie Fighter pilot would wear! Great stuff.

Today, I am grateful for Disney pins.

45th President: Donald Trump

This particular president is the most difficult to write about, mostly because the history of his presidency is now. I can't rely on the book or internet sources (esp. Wikipedia for preliminary research) I used for all the other posts because its all too recent. So, as I gather my thoughts, please forgive this longer entry.

Of course, it's hard for me because my social network in person and online is almost entirely full of people who didn't like the idea of having Trump as a president. But, the biggest lesson the election of 2016 taught me is this: when it comes to national policy and issues, I nor anyone else should ever forget or discount the fact that there are millions of people who may think very differently.

I may be wrong, but I believe a big part of the shock and confusion over Trump's election (even by expert political pundits) was a direct result of people believing that almost everyone felt the same way they did. My own network is largely based on areas in the states of the West and Midwest. Apart from media and entertainment figures, I knew almost nothing about the direct opinions of the people in the South, in New England, on the far west coast, or in other areas. So, if nothing else Trump's election taught me to be more aware of the people outside my personal and online networks.

As for Donald Trump himself, it was hard for me to find sources that discussed his accomplishments as president beyond his first week or first month in office. It does appear that he has delivered or made efforts on many of the things he said he would do in his first 100 days. Unfortunately, the number of sources that focus primarily on positive achievements is disappointingly few.

To those who don't like Donald Trump, may I suggest to you that it's not as bad as you think. I think I've explained that no other president in the past has "ruined" our country. Do we blame Warren G. Harding or any other former president for the state of our nation? (Wait, who's Harding? My point exactly.) No. In our history, we tend to remember those who made tremendous positive impact, and it's just too early to tell what kind of president Trump will end up becoming.

Instantaneous messaging and a 24-hour news cycle tends to cause people to focus on things moment by moment. But, something that was a huge deal last month isn't so much this month. I've decided to take a few steps back and continue to look at the world and my country with gratitude and gladness. I prefer to give people, even Trump, the benefit of the doubt.

Besides, if nothing else at all, recent political events have given many people (including myself) a reason to reflect on their own personal convictions and expressions of patriotism. America is self-evaluating itself a little more, and I like that.

I am grateful for Donald Trump.

P.S.—I have thoroughly enjoyed expressing gratitude for each American president to date. My appreciation for America has become a little deeper and more sincere, and my belief that it's possible to find a reason to be grateful for just about anything is reinforced.

44th President: Barak Obama

I'd like to start with a seemingly random fun fact. It's related to my personal observation that a noticeable amount of Christian families (such as the Mormons in Utah or the Baptists in the South) like to name their children after people in scripture. I never truly understood where the name Barak could come from until I discovered that Barak was the name of a man who, with the blessing of God and the assistance of a prophetess named Deborah, helped deliver Israel from the Canaanites. Knowing that Barak Obama is a self-proclaimed Christian, I am currently assuming that his name came from this reference (in the 4th and 5th chapters of Judges in the Bible, if you're interested).

As for the man himself: He certainly made history as the first African-American to be elected president in America. He also had a busy eight years in office as he focused on many pressing issues, such as health care, gun control, and LGBT rights. Apart from his political endeavors, I really loved his class and his sense of humor. It was endearing to see him laugh at himself on occasion, and it always seemed to me that the way he and his wife interacted with other American citizens was nothing short of gracious and respectful.

I am grateful for Barak Obama.

43rd President: Geroge W. Bush

I am old enough to remember 9/11, and I say that here because of course it was George W. Bush who was our president at that time. He hadn't completed his first year in office when the attacks happened in New York. He is praised and criticized for the way he handled things as president. Based on my knowledge and the sources I've encountered, I admire the man for doing everything he thought and felt was best for the country at the time.

We know anything made by humans has its flaws. Even laws and acts that were more controversial, such as the Patriot Act and the No Child Left Behind Act and others put forth during the Bush years, were created and put into place with the intention of improving the nation.

I am grateful for George W. Bush.

42nd President: Bill Clinton

Along with being one of the younger presidents we've had, Bill Clinton is also known for being president over the longest period of peace and prosperity since WWII. Though he didn't make much headway with health care reform, he was involved in successful welfare reform, as well as the American Free Trade Agreement.

I am grateful for Bill Clinton.

41st President: George H. W. Bush

George H. W. Bush was president during the fall of the Berlin Wall, as well as the dissolution of the Soviet Union (USSR). What a time that must have been to be alive in the world!

President Bush (the first, I suppose we could call him), worked hard on humanitarian causes, as well as the issues of deregulation and the War on Drugs, as it is so named. His administration was also the beginning of the recovery from economic recession, paving the way to economic prosperity in the years ahead.

I am grateful for George H. W. Bush.

40th President: Ronald Reagan

Among the memorable achievements of this energetic president were bringing an end to the Cold War and becoming instrumental in the reshaping of the Republican party as we know it in modern times.

Also, as a child of the 90s, I personally find it significant that he was the last president before the final decade of the 20th century. The 90s were a fairly positive time for America, if I recall, and the next couple of days will reflect on the presidents of that decade.

I am grateful for Ronald Reagan.

39th President: Jimmy Carter

First, my apologies for the brief hiatus on this blog. I am resuming with Jimmy Carter and will still carry on to our current president.

When I think of Jimmy Carter, I think of a speech he once gave titled, "Crisis of Confidence." I remember hearing an excerpt in my favorite hockey movie, Miracle, and then focusing on it for an entry in a speech & debate team in which I was asked to choose a "great speech," and offer an analysis of it. From the start, I loved the hope inherent in that speech, even though Carter was speaking about how America, he felt, had lost their confidence. I loved the call to action to believe in America again. I think that may be the beginnings of my personal, sincere beliefs in this country.

Now, historically, Jimmy Carter isn't considered a tremendously successful president, but it seems that it was his presidential and ex-presidential actions in humanitarian and peacekeeping causes that brought much positivity in the public's opinion of him. Of particular note along this vein is his work at Camp David in facilitating meaningful peace to Middle Eastern countries.

I am grateful for Jimmy Carter.

38th President: Gerald R. Ford

All things considered, especially after the Watergate scandal, President Ford did well for the presidency. It seems he is remembered as yet another president who restored some integrity to the office in the mind of the public.

I am grateful for Gerald R. Ford.

37th President: Richard M. Nixon

It was John F. Kennedy who declared the national goal that by the end of the decade (the 1960s), an American would walk on the moon. Richard Nixon's presidency saw that happen in 1969.

Of course, there was also the controversial Vietnam War at the time as well. Also, Nixon is perhaps most well known by the Watergate scandal, which led to his resignation. But, I am grateful even for that because I was once an intern in the Watergate building in Washington D.C., just a few floors above the former DNC offices. I'm grateful for this because of the opportunity to discover the Watergate complex. Had the scandal not happened, I probably wouldn't have heard of this place as much or cared as much, especially as I discovered how nice the complex is, and the quality of the restaurants and shops there. I now see the scandal as but one piece of the building's history.

I have one more reason to be grateful for Nixon: his 1972 visit to China. Why? Because a man named John Adams wrote an opera about it. I once was writing a paper on the history of minimalistic music, and I ran into this opera in my research. I also watched a DVD recording of it. It is a long, slow, and sometimes nonsensical piece, part satire and part melancholy reflection. Still, I was impressed that a full-length opera had been written on so recent a subject. And truly, Nixon's visit to China was noteworthy, given the history of China and the United States.

Take all this as you will, I am grateful for Richard M. Nixon.

36th President: Lyndon B. Johnson

Lyndon B. Johnson was the president through some of the most intense years of the civil rights movenent. It was during his presidency that the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act were put into law. His presidency also saw the formation of Medicare and Medicaid.

Even with these achievements, I can imagine race riots, the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., and the issues surrounding the Vietnam War encouraged his decision to not seek a second presidential term.

Nevertheless, I am grateful for Lyndon B. Johnson.

35th President: John F. Kennedy

Ten presidents ago, America had John F. Kennedy. Every president must handle tough issues in tough times. In his case, the Berlin Wall was built in his time, and the Cuban Missile Crisis was in full swing.

He is remembered for his youth, his Catholicism, his role as a civil rights advocate, and many other things. But of course, most memorable was his tragic assassination. It certainly wasn't the first time an American president was killed while in office, but it was the most memorable.

I am grateful for John F. Kennedy. I am grateful that he established the Peace Corps. I am also grateful that his life and work was found worthy of a Pulitzer Prize (for his biography, Profiles in Courage).

34th President: Dwight D. Eisenhower

Do you like Ike? Well, I do, and evidently most Americans in the mid 1950s to early 1960s did too. President Eisenhower helped keep peace in a time of the Cold War and Sputnik. One source called his time in office "a time of great national pride."

I am grateful for Dwight D. Eisenhower.

33rd President: Harry S. Truman

"The Buck Stops Here"

Here is an example of a president who had extremely low approval ratings when he left office(Gallup Poll in 1952 showed 22%), but then became very well respected in his retirement and eventual passing (he died around the time of the Vietnam War and Watergate, so people looked back at his presidency with greater respect).

His associates said he worked very hard, and I believe it. He had to lead the country through the finishing of WWII (including the releasing of the atomic bombs that led to the end of the war), the Nuremberg Trials, a continuation of the New Deal, the Korean War, and the Red Scare with the start of the Cold War.

I am grateful for Harry S. Truman.

32nd President: Franklin D. Roosevelt

What an incredible leader was Franklin D. Roosevelt. No matter how you feel about Democratic policies, I think all can agree that he did so much to help America recover from the Great Depression. What's amazing is that he didn't just try to offer physical or financial aid, he offered emotional aid. Taking advantage of radio technology, he spoke words of hope, confidence, and encouragement to the American people. From the Great Depression through WWII, this nation triumphed through some very dark times thanks in part to FDR.

In my most recent visit to Washington D.C., I discovered the FDR Memorial for the first time. I was blown away by the stoic beauty of the site. Each facet of the place begged for me to walk through and examine it all slowly. I especially loved the statues of the American people of the time. There is one that depicts several thin, desperate men lined up at a bread line for their food. My favorite was a more intimate sculpture depicting a blue-collar man (or a farmer, perhaps) sitting near his radio, leaning towards it, listening in earnest to the speeches of FDR.

Although Constitutional amendments now forbid any president from serving more than two terms, I think we can all agree that this four-term president was there when the country needed him most.Of course, his wife, Eleanor, was equally accomplished in her own right, but I choose to focus this particular post on Franklin because of my intent to focus on the presidents themselves.

I am grateful for Franklin D. Roosevelt.

31st President: Herbert Hoover

Who was the president of the United States when the Great Depression was in full swing? Herbert Hoover. Soon after Black Thursday hit in 1929, he was there in office. I remember learning in history classes that most of the public didn't like what Hoover did, his approach to this dark time in America before Franklin D. Roosevelt came to the office.

But, I am grateful for Herbert Hoover because despite what went wrong, I am confident that he did what he felt would be best in such challenging circumstances. Very few people would want to be in his position at that time.

30th President: Calvin Coolidge

President Calvin Coolidge saw a few historic moments during his presidency, including the first "talking" motion picture in 1927, but his term ended shortly after the Great Depression hit the nation. In the ups and downs of his four years, Coolidge brought dignity back to the presidential office, in the aftermath of the scandals and affairs of Harding.

Also, this is just a little thing, but the main reason I recognize Calvin Coolidge's name is from a line in the classic film Singin' in the Rain (which, incidentally, is set in the 1927). There is a moment when Lina Lamont, a film actress and a complete diva, is jealous of Don Lockwood. She boasts, "Why I make more money than...than Calvin Coolidge! Put together!" So, every time I see or hear Coolidge's name, I think of that line. :)

I am grateful for Calvin Coolidge.

29th Presdent: Warren G. Harding

Warren G. Harding was very well liked at the time of his death. However, public opinion soon shifted to total animosity as more information circulated about his presidency and his cabinet's political actions. Did you know about this? Do you know what Harding did to earn such disrespect as a person and as a politician, even now?

Unless you are a historian who, by trade or mere interest, specializes in the post-WWI era of America (circa 1918–1925), chances are you are like me and know little to nothing about Harding or his administration.

If we lived in an alternative world and Harding was the king of America, his actions would have a far greater effect because there would be fewer forces checking and balancing him and his colleagues. We've had great presidents, and we've had corrupt presidents, and we've had everything in between. One man or woman may make a significant political or social impact, but the reach of any one person is always limited by space or time, or both.

The constant in American history has been the nation's people. I have faith in the democratic republic that is the United States of America, and the events and effects of President Harding's administration further convinces me of the importance of trusting in the goodness and freedom of citizens.

I am grateful for Warren G. Harding.

28th President: Woodrow Wilson

World War I (then called "the Great War")
The Treaty of Versailles (the document that ended WWI)
Prohibition
The historic 19th amendment to the Constitution (giving women the vote)

Each of these events occurred during Woodrow Wilson's presidency and were defining moments in his public service. These events and documents changed the country...and the world.

I am grateful for Woodrow Wilson.

27th President: William Howard Taft

President Taft lived in a time when monopolies were a much bigger issue (case in point: Rockefeller's oil monopoly of the time). Taft was progressive in dealing with and regulating monopolies.

I am grateful for William Howard Taft.

26th President: Theodore Roosevelt

The man who ran the "bully pulpit," and boy did he use his presidential term to the fullest. Theodore Roosevelt's foreign policy carried the following slogan: "Speak softly and carry a big stick." (I believe the phrase originated before Roosevelt's time, but he made it popular.) Roosevelt also started the effort to conserve American wildlife and lands by establishing national parks, forests, and monuments (the first wildlife refuge was created in Florida, the first national monument in Wyoming). He is also known as the first truly modern president, since his entire presidency took place in the first years of the 20th century (1901–1909). Also, most people know he was instrumental in the building of the Panama Canal. That saves so much trouble and time when traveling by sea!

I am grateful for Theodore Roosevelt.

25th President: William McKinley

(Remember that Grover Cleveland is considered America's 22nd and 24th president.)

William McKinley is considered the president to begin "U.S. expansionism," one of—if not the main—reason the United States had/has territories as well as states. The Philippines were given their independence after WWII, but apart from that this country still has territories that were claimed during McKinley's presidency. This is, admittedly, one of the more controversial topics of McKinley's presidential service.

It was also during his time that the modern era began, and with it modern politics. McKinley was the one to lead the nation into the 20th century.

I am grateful for William McKinley.

23rd President: Benjamin Harrison

One thing that stands out to me about Benjamin Harrison is the number of states he admitted into the union during his presidency. It caught my attention because I grew up in the Midwest area. He admitted the following states:

North Dakota
South Dakota
Montana
Washington
Idaho
Wyoming

What would our country be without these states? Fargo? Mount Rushmore? Idaho potatoes? Fantastic northern hunting and fishing? Tillamook dairy products? Boeing? All of that and more exists thanks to those states.

I am grateful for Benjamin Harrison.

22nd and 24th President: Grover Cleveland

Had he not been beaten by Benjamin Harrison in the election of 1888, Grover Cleveland would have just been the 22nd president, and perhaps for four terms. Now, he will be known as the one man who became president twice.

What did he do in his four-year absence? Went back to private life, returned to his private law firm, but determined to return to the presidency in 1892, which of course he did.

Grover Cleveland was also known to be the first president to use the executive veto power freely. It seemed he executed the laws of his time, but didn't do much to help shape new laws. Like it or not, this is another good example of checks and balances at work.

I am grateful for Grover Cleveland.

P.S.—I debated on whether or not I should give Cleveland separate blog entries here, but I settled on just doing the one.

21st President: Chester A. Arthur

President Chester A. Arthur dedicated himself to proposing and supporting reforms to reduce and avoid government corruption. One source even says he "restored dignity to [the] presidency." I truly feel that, no matter who serves from the Oval Office, the title and mantle of President of the United States should be treated with dignity and respect. We can agree or disagree with the human under that mantle, but the station itself, the office, the tremendous responsibilities and expectations involved with being president should be, I think, considered respectable.

I am grateful for Chester A. Arthur.

20th President: James A. Garfield

President Garfield's time in office was short, but in that time his accomplishments included increasing the American naval power and purging corruption in the U.S. Postal Service. He also proposed a bill that eventually became the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act, which stated that federal government positions are to be awarded by merit, not by political affiliation.That is something I think we can all agree on, no matter our political affiliation.

I am grateful for James A. Garfield.

19th President: Rutherford B. Hayes

The legacy of Rutherford B. Hayes' presidency includes his acknowledgement of injustice to the American Indians (in his first message to Congress), the promotion of a canal that crosses Panama, and the ending of the Reconstruction period for the country. He has done several things to move this nation forward in an important time.

I am grateful for Rutherford B. Hayes.

18th President: Ulysses S. Grant

History seems to consider Andrew Johnson (17th president) the father of segregation. On the other hand, our 18th president, Ulysses S. Grant, is considered the father of the civil rights movement. Part of his legacy is the effort to reconstruct the South to allow full suffrage for blacks.

Also, regarding his management style, my sources tell me that he "believed congress sets policy—president carries it out." I like that. The branches of government working together as well as balancing each other out.

I am grateful for Ulysses S. Grant.

17th President: Andrew Johnson

Andrew Johnson took office in place of Abraham Lincoln, right as the Civil War was ending and the Reconstruction was beginning. Despite general historical disfavor, I can see one thing to be grateful for because of him: he was the first American president to be impeached.

While not good for him at the time, I see this as a good thing overall because that fact is yet another piece of evidence that this country's Constitution and rule of law works for the people. This reminds us all that the president is really just a high executive officer in our government. There are so many more people involved in national policy, who are in turn very much influenced by their own people and by each other.

In light of this view, I am grateful for Andrew Johnson.

16th President: Abraham Lincoln

The president hailed, celebrated, and admired by so many as the one who saved the union of the United States of America. I have many reasons to be grateful for Abraham Lincoln.

I am grateful that he filled his cabinet with people who disagreed with him. Lincoln's "team of rivals," in my opinion, sets a wonderful example and precedent for this country.
I am grateful that he took executive initiative in measures such as the Emancipation Proclamation.
I am grateful for the Gettysburg Address.
I am grateful for the profound, inspiring experience I had when I visited Ford's Theatre myself, as well as the museum across the street dedicated to Lincoln's life and legacy.

What would this country be like without our 16th president? I am grateful for Abraham Lincoln.

15th President: James Buchanan

I am grateful for President James Buchanan. Lifelong bachelor (only president to be such). Minister to Russia. Prominent Democrat of his day. Called "The incorruptible statesman whose walk was upon the mountain ranges of the law." President of the United States in a trying and tumultuous time of slavery and secession.

I am grateful for James Buchanan.

14th President: Franklin Pierce

Here's something cool about our 14th president: the Gadsden Purchase. Without this purchase, our country wouldn't have the areas near present-day Tucson, Yuma, or Sierra Vista in Arizona, as well as the southwestern boundary of New Mexico (the portion that gives the state a couple extra "steps" in its shape). Without this purchase, Phoenix, AZ and Las Cruces, NM would be at the edge of the country. I wonder what those cities would be like? Would they have become the major immigration or emigration thoroughfares of the Southwest? It's a fun thing to think about.

In even a small way, President Pierce helped America grow and expand. For this, I am grateful for Franklin Pierce.

13th President: Millard Fillmore

It seemed that President Fillmore endeavored to be an appeaser, especially with regards to slavery.

Another notable thing about Millard Fillmore is the fact that he opened Japan to U.S. trade. We have much to be grateful for to be friends with such a good country like Japan (we even have Japanese blossoms all around Washington D.C.!).

I am grateful for Millard Fillmore.

12th President: Zachary Taylor

A couple of interesting facts about the life and presidency of Zachary Taylor:

He was the last American president to own slaves.
He was the second president to die in office.
He was credited with the quote, "Don't eat raw cherries with sour milk."

Apart from those facts, he also had an extensive military career, having served in the War of 1812 and on through the Mexican-American War.

However brief his presidency, however grand and largely unknown his military and public service, I am grateful for Zachary Taylor.

11th President: James K. Polk

President Polk must have been a hard-working man. If my sources are correct, he was responsible for creating the U.S. Naval Academy and the Smithsonian Institution. He also oversaw the groundbreaking of the Washington Monument, and started the official distribution of the first postage stamps (collectors of American stamps owe a lot to Mr. Polk).

I'm sure he did a great many more things, but I think what I've mentioned is reason enough to say I'm grateful for James K. Polk.

10th President: John Tyler

John Tyler was in the then unprecedented situation of filling the presidency during his intended term as vice-president. He apparently never had a vice-president of his own. This and other faccts seem to indicate that John Tyler was an independent, perhaps even stubborn man.

Not much is said of President Tyler today. But, I am grateful for John Tyler. I am grateful that he was able to be a national leader even when he didn't quite expect to.

9th President: William Henry Harrison

William Henry Harrison was our shortest-serving president. He died in office, after serving for only a few weeks. On the plus side, this allowed the Constitution and other federal laws to come into effect that allowed a vice-president to take office in a presidential vacancy. If nothing else, President Harrison proved that established law worked, allowing a peaceful transition to the next presidency.

Plus, despite the circumstances this man is still recognized as one of the 45 people to hold presidential office in America. This country at large has always held the mantle of that executive office with dignity and respect.

Also, Harrison was apparently the first president to use slogans and songs in a presidential campaign. That's cool.

I am grateful for William Henry Harrison.

8th President: Martin Van Buren

I have to admit, this particular post was more difficult. Anything I read about America's 8th president seemed to emphasize the ineffectiveness of Martin Van Buren's term as president. From glancing over a summary of his presidential achievements and policies, the underlying pattern seemed to be that he was more politically minded. He seemed to make decisions based on what he thought would bring the least amount of conflict and the most amount of political support.

He was unsuccessful in a fair amount of things and events, but at least we can all read and learn. It is inevitable that America's democratically republic system will be filled with imperfect people. Nevertheless, each person who was elected president was, indeed, elected president. Besides, if everyone was successful, we wouldn't be able to tell if we were doing a very good job. I am grateful for the things we can learn from Martin van Buren's presidential term.

Perhaps the most reassuring lesson of all from this is the fact that any mistake he made hasn't "ruined" America. He was president for a time, and when his time was up, the nation moved on. This is the case for every president. Whether you think Obama, or Trump, or Bush, or the older Bush, or any other president "ruined" America, I tend to disagree (unless, of course, we are currently living in a world that would be dystopian for someone from the 19th century).

P.S.—Strangely enough, it is possible that Van Buren's presidential campaign introduced "OK/okay" into English (according to Wikipedia, this is one possible origin for "okay"). If it is the true origins, we have one huge reason to thank President Van Buren. :)

7th President: Andrew Jackson

I am aware that Andrew Jackson is often considered one of the country's most controversial presidents, but my focus–as always–is going to be on why I'm grateful for his place in history.

General Jackson won a great victory for America at New Orleans in the War of 1812. He is considered the founder of the Democratic party (even if you dislike the Democratic party or their platforms, there will always be political parties that disagree with you; it just so happened that one of the two main parties of our day saw its beginnings with Andrew Jackson). Also, he led the country at the time of Manifest Destiny, which saw the great political expansion of the country and the beginnings of the western states.

For these reasons, I am grateful for Andrew Jackson.

6th President: John Quincy Adams

As I understand it, John Quincy Adam's defining moments in his presidency included the Erie Canal, establishing a national observatory (which now also serves as the official residence for the vice-president), an immense personal diary, and being a strong opponent of slavery in America.

I am grateful for John Quincey Adams.

5th President: James Monroe

Based on the little I know of our 5th president (as well as some brief research for this post), it seems that James Monroe's legacy has a lot to do with national borders, as well as foreign policy. He is probably most famous for the Monroe Doctrine, which states his policies about avoidence in meddling with European colonies and settlements, while defending all settlements and nations in all of North and South America. This doctrine, however controversial, had some far-reaching effects, even influencing public opinion in America during WWII.

I am grateful for James Monroe. He greatly developed the American discussion about how to interact with immediate and distant neighbors. I understand he also settled U.S. borders and seized Florida for America.

4th President: James Madison

I gained a tremendous appreciation for America's 4th president when I watched a film called A More Perfect Union. The film, produced in 1989 by Brigham Young University, focuses on the context for, the creation and discussion of, and the significance of the U.S. Constitution.

The film aimed for an accurate portrayal of the events, and James Madison is one of the main characters because he spent many, many hours researching governments, politics, sociology, and philosophy. He then drafted a plan (known later as "the Virginia Plan") for a new form of government, much stronger and more effective than the weak Confederation of the time.

Because of his tremendous contributions in such significant events, James Madison is known as the Father of the Constitution. I am so grateful for him for that.

Of course, he continued his public service for many years, siding with the Democratic-Republican party with Jefferson (against Hamilton in the Federalist party). He was the president that got our country through the War of 1812, those conflicts with Great Britain, some battles taking place in Canada.

I am grateful for James Madison.

3rd President: Thomas Jefferson

Another president who had tremendous influence in the founding and shaping of America. I am grateful for Thomas Jefferson's work as ambassador to France during the revolutionary times (I imagine he was a big help in getting France's help in that war). I am grateful for Jefferson's contributing his library to create the beginnings of the now enormous Library of Congress. I am grateful for that amazing Louisiana Purchase.

I know he did many, many other things, but I'll say I'm most grateful for the things I've mentioned. I am grateful for Thomas Jefferson.

2nd President: John Adams

Yesterday's post was slightly lengthy because I know and appreciate so much about America's first president. Expect shorter posts for the lesser-known presidents, of course.

That said, I'm grateful for John Adams. Why? Well...um...oh! He was ambassador to Great Britain for a time, in fact during a crucial time when America was officially forming as a nation. That's a very important place to be while the Constitution is being discussed and drafted.

I'm also aware that he is known as the Father of the U.S. Navy. Where would we be without our navy? I am also aware that he had many tough decisions to make regarding relationships with England, France, and other European nations. Some of his decisions were unpopular.

In spite of any shortcomings (and I say that ironically because I believe he was one of the shortest presidents we've had), he and his proactive wife, Abigail, were significant figures in the founding of America. That's why I'm grateful for John Adams.

1st President: George Washington

In honor of President's Day, and because I thought it would be fun and fascinating, I'm going to express my gratitude here for every American president, starting with the first (and, to be honest, my favorite). Another reason I'm doing this is to help myself—and those who read these posts—to see the good, the things we can be grateful for with each of our presidents, and I mean each one.

So, let's get started with the first of 45, eh?

I am grateful for George Washington for many reasons, and I don't even consider myself much of a history buff, just an average college-educated man.

I am grateful for his extensive military service to the colonies and young America.
I am grateful for his extensive involvement and influence in the founding of America.
I am grateful for his amazing estate, Mount Vernon, a beautiful historical site.
I am grateful for his service as our first president under the Constitution, and for the example he set for all American presidents since then. From his inaugural addresses to taking the oath of office on a Bible to his resignation after two terms of service, he set tremendous and meaningful precedents.

I've noticed that almost every portrayal of the man I've seen, just about every discussion about his life and service is done with respect and admiration. There's something about his legacy, his demeanor during his life, and his personal policies and convictions about law, religion, human beings, and government that makes it so easy to put the man on a great historical pedestal.

He was, of course, a real man, and I don't pretend that he is perfect. But, I do see him as a man to be respected, admired, and—in many ways—emulated. I am grateful for George Washington.

Hidden Figures

I saw another wonderful film this week: Hidden Figures. The film was very well done. The acting, storytelling, and the actual historical events the film portrays all greatly impressed me and inspired me. I was inspired in many ways, including the passion those women had for their work. It inspires me to really think about what sort of passion or care I can apply to any job I do.

I am grateful for the film Hidden Figures, and the real women who inspired the film.

Lettuce-Wrapped Burgers

Twice today, for lunch and dinner, I had some sort of burger (beef and chicken, respectively) with lettuce replacing the bun. I've normally had my burgers with wheat buns, but in my efforts to reduce carbohydrates in my food I opted for lettuce. It tastes really good! I like having lettuce-wrapped burgers! I still get to eat burgers, and have them much healthier at the same time!

I am grateful for lettuce-wrapped burgers.

Lego Batman

Batman is pretty cool, I guess. I liked the trilogy by Christopher Nolan.

But Lego Batman is AWESOME!!!

I am a big fan of The Lego Movie, and I was excited about a Lego Batman movie. I finally got to see it, and I was not disappointed! It's all of the zany, random hilarity I expected. It's even got another sentimental message that centers around a father and son relationship (well, more like father and adopted son).

The film's use of a wide variety of characters was so entertaining! I am grateful for this clever and hilarious alternative persona for a great superhero: Lego Batman!

Temperature Tolerance

I have noticed, throughout the past several years, how tolerant I am with indoor temperature. You know, those "thermostat wars" we hear about (unless you've fought in those wars with your family or roommates). As for me, I almost never bother. I tend to be quite tolerant and comfortable in a wider range of degrees Fahrenheit than some people I know.

For example, at my work, we've had thermostat issues, particularly during the winter. Certain conference rooms would feel so cold that our team would avoid meeting in them at all. As for me, yeah, I feel that it's colder, but I can generally handle it. It never bothered me (anyway).

Or those few months when my co-workers needed a space heater near their cubicles, but I didn't. Even if I ever do feel cold, I like to put my coat on and deal with it.

Anyway, perhaps that makes me weird and sometimes less sensitive to those who care more about the particulars of room temperature (like the time today when my wife observed that we forgot to turn the thermostat back up, and I never noticed that it was colder than normal in our home).

Call it a blessing or a curse, I am grateful to be temperature tolerant.

P.S.—As always, my intention is never to ridicule or downplay anyone else's experience of life, but only to point out the little things I notice each day that I'm grateful for.

A Valentine's Day Dance, Again

My wife and I attended this Valentine's Day Dance this evening (second year in a row, actually). Of course, we had a lot of fun, and part of that was watching other couples dancing. I've taken dance classes before, but I haven't incorporated those lessons into my dancing like those other people have. I love watching couples, young and old, bust a few moves in swing and Latin dancing. I was especially impressed with the older folks. How young they looked when they danced!

I am grateful for dancing, especially those people who are really good at it. Watching any kind of good, confident dancing is inspiring to me. It doesn't have to be very good. It could be downright silly (like exaggerated spins, dives, and jumps with "Near, Far, Wherever You Are" in the background), and I would smile and be happy to be alive.

Tim Burton

Have I expressed gratitude for Tim Burton before? Well, if I have, I'll do it again. My wife and I both had long days at our respective workplaces (her especially). We decided to do something fun after we shopped for groceries (with a new diet plan in place), made a yummy meal together, and took out the garbage.

We opted for a movie, and found "Corpse Bride" on Netflix. We were both fans of Tim Burton's work, including this film, so we watched it, and loved it again!

I'll admit, sometimes Burton's aesthetic is a little too macabre for me. But for the most part, I find his work and art quite delightful and clever. I also like how often he enlists the talents of Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Danny Elfman, and others. For all these reasons and more, I am grateful for Tim Burton.

A Fitness Professional

My doctor recently referred me to a fitness professional (mostly because he saw that I was showing signs of potential health problems in the future, problems that could be solved with better fitness; I have nothing serious at this point). I met with that professional today, and I was impressed. I know there is a lot out there about fitness and I approached this with a bit of skepticism. But, I appreciated the man's sincerity and his genuine passion for his work. I truly felt that he could help me begin constructive habits for my well-being.

I am grateful, not for specific fitness programs or regimens, but for a greater understanding of the principles that will help me feel physically better in my life.

Graduate Gratitude

I don't know everything, or even most things, but know how to learn, and I'm grateful for what I do know. I'm grateful for what I've learned. I'm grateful for the training I've received in my chosen fields of study. Whether you're glad or outraged about today's political events, I hope we can all realize that, though we may not all agree on method, we can all agree on purpose: ignorance is not bliss; knowledge is power.

Even Joseph Smith, the first president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, declared that "It is impossible for a man to be saved in ignorance" (Doctrine & Covenants 131:6). Not only do I believe in learning by study, but I also believe in learning by faith, growing by study and faith.

I hope we can all have continued faith in ourselves, our communities, and our countries. I am grateful for what I have received from the American education system.

Dollies

I'm not referring to the toys my sister played with and that my brother messed up when we were all little. No, I'm referring to the lever contraption people use to move washers, dryers, and refrigerators. I got to help a friend move into a house today, and their cargo included a washer, a dryer, and a refrigerators. I am so grateful for moving dollies. Without them, moving those things would be so much harder and much more painful.

Service in a New Community

I've been looking for opportunities to serve and interact with my new neighbors, and such an opportunity came today. A family in a nearby apartment was moving out soon and needed more boxes. Well, there were still plenty of unpacked boxes at my home, so my wife and I were able to give the family five empty boxes to use. The family was very grateful, and we even had a pleasant chat for a few minutes. I am grateful for a pleasant service opportunity in my own community today.

Work Out Buddy

I've been on and off with exercising these past six months. Now, I'm starting to become more consistent because I have a workout buddy now. Before, I've been trying to do it all myself, which is possible, of course. It's just so much easier to go to the gym with someone rather than yourself. If nothing else, the other person can convince you to get up and go work out with them. I'm grateful to have a work out buddy (in my case, it's my wife).

Vintage Apparel

I enjoy dressing up. I like to look, feel, and act classy. When I noticed my wife looking online at vintage dresses, I was reminded of how much I appreciate that style. When did "vintage" style become cool? I don't know...but it is. I am grateful for vintage style, especially apparel (seriously, the suits back then, so dapper, right?).

A Wonderful Service for a Life Well Lived

I've only been to about three funerals, but my grandfather's funeral today was the finest I've attended. All of his children (my mother and my aunts and uncles) were in one place—something that hadn't happened in years—to comfort their mother. All who were at the service shared or listened to dozens of humorous and heartwarming experiences with my grandfather. The gravesite service was also very touching. There was a bagpipe performance, and prayer, and a military salute.

The luncheon afterwards was fun. More than anything, I was happy to be with family. For a day, we all came together to celebrate a life very well lived, and to appreciate each other's company and connections.

I already expressed gratitude for my grandfather, so today I am grateful for the beautiful service and celebration of his life that I was able to participate in. I truly felt that I had done my part in giving a proper goodbye to my grandfather.

Bonus: I am grateful that I was inspired this evening to remember a service commitment I had made. I arrived late to set up chairs for church, but I was there, and I got to help for the last couple of minutes before all the work was done. I have no other reason for remembering that I had committed to being there except that I was inspired by the Holy Spirit to keep that commitment.

A Good Neighbor

I did not expect one of our neighbors to come knocking on our door, but it happened tonight. The neighbor brought us some cookies and told us she was going door to door, meeting people, since she was new in the neighborhood. My wife and I are quite new ourselves, so we were excited to see someone else reaching out.

This inspired me. Now I want to take some initiative to meet some of my new neighbors! Also, the cookies were quite yummy. :)

Bonding Over Video Games

I've had a love/hate relationship with video games in the past. They're so much fun! But, do I spend too much time on them? What's funny is my wife likes some of the same game I do, so we often get to bond over how we're each doing in the games' story modes.

My wife and I have many similar interests, and I'm grateful for that. Video games, board games, games in general, is one of those things. :)

Grandfathers

I remember that I was about nine years old when my paternal grandfather passed away. His health was failing him, so it wasn't a shock to us. My dad went to the funeral, but the rest of my family didn't, only because the funeral was out of the way, in Canada. We all loved the man. I have some good, fond memories of him.

This afternoon, my mother called me to tell me that her father—my other grandfather—had passed away today. His health had also been poor, especially in recent years. We all knew his pain and troubles would soon end. He also lived far away for most of my life, so I wouldn't say I was very close with him, but I loved him.

That said, I didn't realize that it would take me about 15 minutes of silent sobbing after I heard the news for me to truly focus and get back to work. I suddenly remembered the love that man had given me all my life.

Changes are sometimes hard for me, but at least I understand why they happen. All I wish to say now is this: Gramps, thank you. Thank you for giving me and my brother a fencing lesson. Thank you for giving me a tie, a briefcase, and a glass chess set, tangible reminders of your life. Thank you for your love of music. Thank you, especially, for telling me multiple times how you expect great things from me. Thank you, so very much.

I am grateful for my grandfathers. My family means more to me than I can adequately say, and I look forward to seeing some of my extended family again as I pay my respects at the funeral.

New Computer...Loading...

I'm adjusting to a new computer, and I didn't realize how long it would take to set everything up on it, all the programs and such. I was hoping to get some things done on my computer, but they will have to wait until tomorrow.

But, I will say that I am grateful to have a new, working computer, even if I won't get a full use of it until tomorrow. :)

Snow Plows on the Freeway

I love snow, but the amount of it that poured on the streets today made me nervous. My wife and I wanted to run some errands in a town about an hour's drive away. I am grateful we were able to get to and from where we needed to go safely. Part of the credit goes to the snow plows.

Not once, but twice on our drive to the other town, a line of snow plows entered the freeway to clear the road. We stayed behind them, keeping our drive slow and steady. I am very grateful for the work done by today's snow plow drivers.

45th Peaceful Presidential Inauguration

I'd like to express my gratitude for today's presidential inauguration. Donald Trump has been sworn in as the 45th President of the United States, as is the way in this country.

Of course, people around the world have many varying opinions about this event, but I wish to emphasize the fact that the transition was peaceful. Perhaps other countries have experienced 45 peaceful transitions of power, from one executive officer to another, but I'm not aware of any from the top of my head. I am grateful that today's presidential inauguration ceremony was just as grand, dignified, and peaceful as it should be.

I wish President Donald Trump, his administration, other government officials, and the rest of the American people four years of success, progress, and improvement. Whether you like it or not, we still have a president, a Congress, and a Supreme Court, by the people, for the people, and of the people.

A Few Weeks of Daily Gratefuls

Hello! I know it's been several weeks since my last post, but it's been an interesting several weeks for me, mostly filled with illness and minor injuries. That said, I truly have very much to be grateful for, and I will share some of those things in a list:

I am grateful that I no longer suffer from flu symptoms.
I am grateful for my in-laws who convinced me to go to the hospital to get my swollen leg looked at.
I am grateful that my four days at the hospital were comfortable, and that I had very good care.
I am grateful my wife stayed with me each night at the hospital (she's such a trooper).
I am grateful the antibiotics worked.

I am grateful I was able to power through my fear of needles (for the most part, for a few days).
I am grateful for a wonderful team of competent, careful doctors and nurses.
I am grateful for the insurance my wife and I have.
I am grateful for the people who visited me while I was at the hospital.
I am grateful I was able to get things straightened out with work during my recovery.

I am grateful for good, quality hospital food.
I am grateful for the positive updates I was able to give to my family and my in-laws as I got better.
I am grateful for nice, friendly, encouraging phlebotomists.
I am grateful to be able to walk without pain or limp.
I am grateful for a successful ingrown toenail removal.

I am grateful the toenail surgery was much, much less agonizing than I thought possible.
I am grateful that illness, infection, and injury are all taken care of in a matter of weeks.
I am grateful for safe and speedy recoveries.
I am grateful to know that the next time I get a pedicure (if ever), I should tell the specialists to leave my toenails alone.

That should, more or less, cover the last nineteen days of gratitude. Of course, I could go on, but I try not to make these posts too long, otherwise I'd have to conclude with a TL;DR note (too long; didn't read). This is the internet, after all. ;)

It's good to be back.

2016

Today, I am grateful for the year of our Lord two thousand sixteen.

I have heard some say that 2016 was an awful year, perhaps one of the worst. Now, I can understand the disappointment, frustration, and sorrow regarding the tragedies that have been seen and broadcast this year. I can also understand such feelings at the passing of such greats as David Bowie or Carrie Fisher. Also, a fair chunk of America didn't like how the presidential election turned out.

But I am so very grateful for this year. For one, I'm sure there are other years in history that were actually worse than 2016 (for example, 2016 in America wasn't as bad as was, say 1929 when the Great Depression began).

For me (and likely many others in the world), 2016 was my best year yet. I graduated from college, fell in love, got a full time job, got married, and spent Christmas with my entire family (which hadn't happened in a few years).

I am grateful for 2016, and I look forward to the adventures and growth I will see in 2017.