Being a single parent is always a struggle, but it almost seems like it is one hustle after the next. At least that is the way I see it in my own life. Especially after the turn of events that have lasted over the past three plus years.

I moved from Fairfax to Novato after 6 years, but it wasn't my choice to move.
I was not ready for change to occur in my life in any way, shape or form, but it was inevitable. I had no control over how things would turn out, but God did. It was a struggle to find a place in Marin at a price range I could afford on my own, but God came through with a bigger and better place and put favor in the heart of my landlord for me. As soon as I planted my flag and staked out this land then my journey began.

I do not regret moving to Novato although my life was turned upside-down and literally rocked by some personal issues, but I am a survivor and I will always make it through with my Lord's guidance. I am thankful I have a strong church family and a network on great friends to support me as well.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.

I know it has been some time since my last post, but I had to think about what I really wanted to write about. So I thought to myself...what am I really grateful for? I know it is easier to complain abut the things in our lives that hold us down, but what about the things that make is glad to be alive. What little things make us rejoice and thank the Lord for his provisions?

It is much easier said or thought then done. I really had to mull it over in my mind, you know, besides the obvious things like, food, shelter and the clothes on my back. It isn't easy for me to slow it down and take the time to contemplate the things in my life I could so easily take for granted.

Places where I could say, "I'm thankful for this, but..." My thankfulness should never include a "but". It is hard to come up with a gratitude list every day and think of new things to be thankful for. In the long run though I believe it will make for a stronger relationship with God and it will help you turn your negative view of life into a much more positive one.

As I continued to think about the things that God has given me in this past year, I begin to see a change in myself. I see where God has strengthened my relationship with my daughter, that he has kept my little old pick up truck running, that he has helped me financially even though I don't have a 9-5 type job, etc. So many more things I can be grateful for and too many more to name (which is a great thing!), but of these things I am eternally grateful to God. I can smile and know that He is true to his word ALL the time.

Just a little spiritual food for thought:

Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

I pray your day is truly blessed in more ways then you can fathom :-)