“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.” Psalm 30:11-12 (NIV)

Giving thanks to God, I’m counting up one thousand gifts  from above. May we give Him thanks forever!

462. how they all three thrill at seeing the first humming-bird at the new feeder

463. the black-capped chickadee, the deep red cardinal and the electric blue indigo bunting at the finch feeder

464. raindrops on lilacs

465. the captivating yet familiar scent of fresh lilac blossoms

466. tulips sprinkled with raindrops

467. tiny bare toes that dance happily across the stage

468. how her face beams as she does the caterpillar/butterfly dance on the big stage

469. her “Tigger tail”

470. how thoughtfully she moves to Dvorak’s music

471. how they giggle about their “not serious” ballet

472. instructors with a contagious passion for the art of dance and students who excel under their direction

473. orange popsicles to savor

474. time to explore the endless possibilities of wooden pattern blocks

475. hairpins and the kind neighbor’s 5 minute lesson on hair buns

476. frilly costumes that make them feel so beautiful

477. medicine for allergies

478. the sweet Granny who introduces them to Rosemaling and the immeasurably wonderful art instructor who inspires us all

479. Sunday evening fellowship with some familiar and some unfamiliar faces

480. protection from the devastating storm nearby

481. a quiet, slow morning with a flexible schedule