Be Grateful

Do you ever look at your house and see it through different eyes?  Living in the midst of it, I get used to how everything looks and expect it to look that way.  But sometimes, just every once in a while, I see it how I think other people might see it. 

Sometimes I figure they think its cute and quaint (read: small), but sometimes I see they must be looking at the mess and all the things wrong with it.

I see the the weeds that have sprung up all over the yard.  I see the porch full of things that just need to be put away.  I see the crowded house full of stuff and the kitchen that looks like it's in the middle of a remodel (but isn't).  Suddenly, the "mess" that I've lived with for weeks becomes apparent to me and I'm embarrassed that my house doesn't look put together and perfectly spotless like a show house.

Sometimes I see these thing and suddenly I'm not content with this piece of my life anymore.  I'm depressed that my house isn't showroom quality and my yard isn't perfect.

And then I remember to just be grateful.

The yard full of weeds is still more full of grass and some really beautiful plants.  The porch is my favorite place to sit and watch the hummingbirds and to sip my coffee.  The house full of 'mess' is a major blessing.  I have things! So many people do not have a roof over their head or a closet overflowing with colorful clothes or an old couch to curl up on and read a book.  And those showroom houses?  Do people actually live in them?  Are there cats who cuddle up on the recliner and guys who walk trapse dirt and grass in because they just finished mowing and want to put food on the grill for dinner?  I'm lucky!  My house is lived in and it is full of life!

Sure, my life isn't perfect and neither is my house.  But it is mine and it is full of wonderful things, including memories and above all love.