God's Gifts..Praising God in the Valley

One month ago my brother Joey died at the young age of 47 of a massive heart attack in his sleep.  It has left me sad, heartbroken, and grieving in a much different way than before.  You see, Joey didn't know Jesus as His personal Lord and Savior, therefore he doesn't feel better.

Just about a week ago the Holy Spirit of God began nudging me to read Ann Voskamp's book "1,000 Gifts."  I didn't know why but I finally gave in and bought it on my kindle.  I sat back and began to read.  It wasn't long before tears began to flow.  I heard God whisper that afternoon "Alicia, make your own list of gifts you're thankful for.  Find beauty in these ashes.  I'll collect your tears in a bottle and carry you through.  Praise me while in this valley."

So, I've chosen to make a list and capture pictures of what I'm thankful for!  So welcome to my list of 1,000 gifts!  You won't see them all at once but every once in a while.  Sometimes it'll be a just a list, while others will have pictures.

Here's the beginning of my list:  

1.  The sweet welcome of my two dogs Callie and Kaleb each morning!  

2.  The smell of my favorite cologne my husband wears (Drakkar) throughout the house!  It smells HEAVENLY!!!! 

3.  A hot bath at the end of a long shift at work!  

4.  The smell of spice/cinnamon flavored candles in the house!  Oh how I love spice flavored candles!  

5.  The smell of a fresh  cup of coffee each morning.  My husband and I have coffee every morning together!

So, today God I praise you for these things in my life!  Although I grieve I know Joy comes in the morning! Thank you God!

-Alicia