As I retire...counting my blessings/challenges

No-not from my teaching career. ;)
As I retire to bed...I have been taking time tonight to reflect on a few things. I have had a rough two weeks but life is getting back to normal-whatever that may be. I have much to be *thankful* for, but a few things to work on. As I was *reflecting* tonight, I decided to go curl up in bed with my daughter and just listen to her breathe while she slept. I used to do this ALL THE TIME but I can't remember the last time I did it...tears come to my eyes as I am reminded how truly blessed I am and even though life gets difficult...I need to appreciate my challenges as well as my blessings. I started to make a mental list in my head of the challenges that I need to appreciate and be thankful (tis the season) for....and work on.
1. A blended family that continually challenges me. (must learn to appreciate the challenges of being a stepparent rather than resent them).
2. A husband that loves me when he shouldn't-but insist on doing so for whatever reason. (this man has mastered unconditonal love while I still have rules).
3.A daughter that I am beyond proud of-and continues to remind me of one of my most important purposes on earth.(must learn to work on snapping her head off for things she does that are things I STILL do)
4.MANY wonderful and supportive friends. (and only God knows why)
5. A career that is a challenge, provision, and something I am proud to be. (must learn to truly TEACH from the heart more than see it as I need this money)
6. A mom who is one of my biggest fans and is always finding ways to make my life a little less stressful. (must tell her more that I love her rather than let her phone calls drive me crazy)
7. Good health. (must learn to NOT take for granted)

So-see what a fabulous life. There are many more things that I could put on my list....but I will try to remember in the future whenever a *challenge* arises...to see it as a blessing. ;)