For the pile of books scattered about the nursery room floor, I am grateful.
It means my toddler enjoyed sitting quietly reading to herself.
For the endless dirty diapers, I am grateful.
They indicate that, despite the dinner battles, my daughter is nourished.
For the dog fur tumbleweeds and muddy paw-prints on the floor, I am grateful.
They remind me that a fun house doesn't have to be a pristine one.
For the containers and lids that once were neatly organized but now teeter haphazardly in the cabinet, I am grateful.
The disorganization is evidence of an excited child's exploration of her world.
For the tired back and sore feet, I am grateful.
It means I have been blessed with a full day of activity.
For the to-do list still uncompleted, I am grateful.
It means I played with my little girl, whose days with me seem so long, but are fleeting.
For days like this when I am able to have a heart of thankfulness, I am grateful.
I fail to recognize life's messiness as a blessing on so many other days.
