The Things I Am Thankful for in 2009

There are so many things that I am thankful for in 2009; countless, as a matter of fact. But let me highlight the most significant events that happened in my life, especially with my family. Having a wonderful and a beautiful wife and two lovely and intelligent daughters alone is an awesome blessing from God, but it goes deeper than that. My daughters, Gianne and Elyssa, are both outstanding students: the former, a sixth grader in honor roll status and hold a key role as a member of the student council at her school; the latter, a third grader who settles for nothing but straight 5s in her report card. I am most thankful though for the good health that we all enjoy and cherish-no H1N1 issues, whatsoever, or any other major illness.

Other things that I am grateful for are our smooth move to San Diego from the wine country of Temecula, the writing opportunities that I am currently enjoying, and the constant support of our brethren in the Church of God in season and out of season. It did not take long for us to find a house in San Diego and so the school transfers of my daughters went very smooth. Right away, we were able to establish residency so gathering the documentations needed for the girls for their new schools was a breeze. We also have some free time to clean and decorate the house due to the Thanksgiving holiday of the students. The timing could not have been better. On top of that, I am also having a great time finding writing opportunities online. Currently, I am writing for three different web sites, not counting the blogs and forums that I also maintain. I love writing on various subjects, particularly about sports and religion, so these opportunities really keep me delighted. But most of all, I love how our brethren in our local church provide us support in all our needs, emotionally and financially. We can always count on them as fellow Christians and as a loving and caring extended family.

Saying thank you will never suffice to acknowledge all the wonderful things happening in my life so I always make sure that I return the favor to my neighbors each time I am afforded an opportunity. I glorify and praise God for I know that He is the One who provides all these blessings, these perfect gifts that come from above. It's not over yet, I believe, because we are still in 2009. I trust the Lord that the best gifts and most gracious blessings are yet to come.