Who does not thank for little, will not thank for much.--Estonian Proverb

Sometimes it's hard to notice the "little things" in life to be grateful for... until something happens to them. For instance... taking the dryer for granted until the heating element suddenly quits working... and then you realize how very much you use your dryer... and how nice it is to have one that works. Just an example... but it happened to us earlier this year... and now every time I do a load of laundry... I am thankful for my washer and dryer and the fact that they work.

And so... here are FIVE "little things" I am grateful for today:
1. heat. I am grateful for a working heating system in my house... and in my car.
2. adequate plumbing. Toilets that flush... sinks that drain... faucets that shower me with fresh water.
3. electricity. Lights that allow me to work late at night... a refrigerator that keeps my food from spoiling.
4. fresh air.
5. fresh foods available at my local stores... many of it organic. I am so grateful for the farmers who provide me with great local produce.

And so... the top photo is from Los Poblanos... where tons of fresh produce is gently farmed and gathered for local people to buy. And the bottom two photos are from Trader Joe's... a local (fantastic) chain of shops where I can get lots of fresh, organic... healthy, whole foods.

*photos by Elaine A. Russell