Each week (I aim for Thursday), I’ll use this space to list five things (items, experiences, people, whatever) for which I’ve been recently grateful. Consider it my “blessings count”. Ann Voskamp’s famous challenge to list 1000 gifts seemed daunting — I’m committing to 500, a task which will take me two years of weekly posts to complete!

As a child, I heard a story about a tortoise who won his race. I’m on that pace, trying to be equally persistent.

1) Travel
Last weekend afforded me the chance to be part of a conference in Toronto with a number of other pastors from around the nation. It is a real treat to see new places and take in new experiences.

2) Hugs
Our three little girls love to snuggle, and this Dad loves that they do!

3) Ribs
A recent meal with friends provided me with a menu that included BBQ ribs. And I needed little drive to place my order!

4) Basketball
Last night I played competitive basketball for the first time in nearly a decade. I was thrilled at how fun it was, sobered by how below-average I am, and alert to how many very sore muscles I had this morning.

5) Painting
Next week, I’ll spend part of day painting what will become a prayer room in our church. There is a special pleasure to the task of putting fresh colour on walls. Looking forward to it!

YOUR TURN: Your input makes this post better!

• Did any of this week’s list especially strike a chord with you?
• What’s one thing you’re particularly grateful for this week?

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