gratitude...

Even in paradise...

Realities are still very present.

Still waiting in expectancy for the sell of Hope's House...
Many lookers in love and led away by construction concerns.

Still very much alive...
Days marked with unfortunate mishaps.

In the midst of fighting lies that scream...
"You are locked out..."
"The keys... locked inside... you don't have access."

Refusing to entertain the untruths...
Resisting... resting our gaze on what isn't favorable...
We choose gratitude.
Doesn't always feel right... but it does always feel life-giving...

On today's list...
I am thankful for...
Early morning treasure talks with Papa.

Heart conversations that help me better handle undesired surprises of the day...

Super thankful for locksmiths...

And...

Keys...

Opening up locked spaces...

So that love can reenter.

For reminders of His presence...

Bestowing sweet gifts...

Including...

The art of play...

And treasured family reunions...

For scars of the heart... 

Reminding of what is behind...

Singing songs of healing...

"Dinner and a movie."

Belly meat...

Salty kisses...

Giggles...

Family splashes...

Sharks and minnows...

Laughter...

Special walks... 

Intentional talks...

Protecting potions...

Partnership...

Life...

Love...

The sound of the waves...

Roaring...

Mists of rain...

Ocean play...

Grace...

Sandy bottoms...

Little boy undies...

Snack dates...

Cloud games...

Dreaming and declarations...

Singing with smalls...

Noise...

Quiet...

Helpful strangers...

Target...

Doctors...

And meds to tackle a second round of poison ivy...

Heaven's food of choice...

And "taco sauce..."

The fact that this list is endless...

My heart...

Filled to the rim with gratitude...

Oh...

One more...

Pockets...

I am thankful for those too.

May gratitude increase...

ALWAYS!

It gives us keys to open doors... once locked.