Family Pets, Falling Rocks, a Few of my Favorite Things

Following Elder Howden’s example, I have also decided to write a few of my thoughts on some things I am grateful for with Thanksgiving coming up so soon.  I tried looking around the room we are in for inspiration (my desk is in the bottom right of the picture) but all I could really think about was how much I wanted to get out.  I figured the wisest thing would be to go with what I had been given.  Today, I am grateful for Nature and the many wonderful creations we have.  Plants and scenery are nice, but they don’t really do too much for me.  They just kind of sit there.  But, what I am most grateful for is the interactions we find in nature.

Show and Tell With Half Dead Chickens

I have grown up with animals.  My parents had two dogs when I was born.  When I left a year ago to come on my mission we had two dogs, a cat, a cockatiel, an aquarium with fish, and chickens and ducks.  I understand my parents have also recently gotten another dog.  As I think back on the pets we have had many memories come to my mind, mostly of our dogs.

Dogs are typified as being loyal.  I remember our dogs chewing up the sprinkler system at our house, eating the fruit off of our trees, the accidents in the house training them, but being able to later clean the messes outside.  I remember them jumping on me with muddy paws, chasing them when they chased other random animals, bathing them after they were sprayed by a skunk, and countless other memories.