It’s November! What are you thankful for?

When I’m making my gratitude lists, I usually think about things that make me all warm and fuzzy. You know, things like a great cup of coffee or beautiful sunsets or my handsome sons. But the truth is, some of the best gifts are things that at first, made me cold and prickly. They were things I didn’t want at all; things like when I went from 1st Chair Flute in the Junior High Band to 3rd Chair all in the same day. Even in that horrible, no good, very bad situation, I did receive some blessings. I made friends with the new girl who had just moved to town and was a much more accomplished flutist than I. And, I learned a lifelong, character building lesson that I had to practice if I wanted to be as good as she was.

Today, I’m thankful for another one of those “cold pricklies,” my sweet puppy Curly. I did not want a dog. I did not need a dog. I did not think I had time for a dog. My kids’ dad and I took our young boys to “just look at puppies,” and ended up coming home with one. (note to anyone reading… Never go look at puppies unless you fully intend to take one home.) I repeat, I did not want a dog. I did not select this pup. I had left the room for a minute, and when I returned, the boys were playing with this cute little black and tan cockapoo. And they had named him. As soon as that happened, I had lost the battle. I’m sure you know that kids don’t get dogs, Moms do. That meant I was responsible for his training and care and feeding.

It turns out that this little guy has been with me now for almost 14 years. He has been with me through thick and thin, and always has a welcoming smile for me. (It’s true. No other way around it. I believe he smiling at me.) There were days as a single mom when I would come home from work and it seemed like everyone in the world was against me. There would be Curly, happily greeting me at the door with his tail wagging. He’s always there to take me for a walk or play catch or simply snuggle by my side. He’s getting older now, and doesn’t see well, and needs a little help with the steps. He’s been an amazing friend and I’m go grateful that he came into my life – even when I didn’t think I wanted or needed him.

It is blessings like this – first he was a cold prickly, but in reality, he was a blessing that the heart remembers as a gift – that I’m most grateful for today. What are some of your cold pricklies?

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