If I have my dates right, it was a year ago today that I received my diagnosis: not really an anniversary worth celebrating, except to say that I’m glad to be alive!

Last Christmas, my husband gave me a beautiful book about Advent, in hope that I would be alive to celebrate Advent 2014. Our family has been reading it daily, and I’m so glad to be able to celebrate Advent. We look forward to the coming of Jesus – both as a baby born in Bethlehem and also His triumphal return one day.

We don’t know when that day will be. We really have no idea what the future holds. Living each day – living life to the fullest, whatever that looks like – is a gift for which I am very thankful.

I’m also thankful for all kinds of lovely cards and gifts which have been arriving at our door lately! We are so blessed, and our cup continues to overflow!

The other day, I put some sheets of paper up on the back of a door we rarely use but often walk past. On the first, I wrote, “I’m thankful for …”, then I filled it up with dozens and dozens of words. On the second, I wrote, “What are you thankful for?”. I attached a pencil to a festive cord and tied it to the doorknob. I am delighted to see a growing list of words my kids have chosen to write.

I’m still recovering from the pneumonia, and this week I feel more energetic than I have in a while. I walked over 6000 steps yesterday (according to my pedometer), and didn’t feel super tired or sore by bedtime.

My son just walked in the door, so I want to go spend time with him. Thank you for spending time “with” me through reading this blog. Blessings on you and yours, this Advent and always!