It is funny how you learn to appreciate things a little more when you get older.  I grew up in a small town right off the coast of Maryland.  When I was a child, I could not wait to get away from there.  It did not help that both of my parents were school teachers and knew everyone in town! I think they still do.  After I got out of college (the first time), I moved away from there so fast and never really looked back.  For many years, I did not even go home to visit.  My sister and I both live in the same city now so my parents used to always come and visit us.  Now that my parents have gotten older, my family and I take more trips back home to the shore.  The first time I went home after many years, I hardly recognized my little town.  Empty fields were now shopping centers.  There was actually traffic which I really do not remember!  But as I continue to visit over the years, I have also learned to appreciate the little town that I could not wait to get away from as a child.

As I thought about learning to appreciate my home town as I have gotten older, I also started to think about some other things that I appreciate more now more than ever.  I started making a list since I returned from my most recent visit home and I have decided to share that list with all of you.  Here are some of the things that come to mind:

• The small town living I had as a child.
• My parents and all they have done and continue to do for me.
• The impact my parents made on many lives through their teaching careers.
• My health and the health of my son and family.
• Going back home and still running into people that know me or someone in my family.
• The true friendships I have with people that know I have faults and do not judge me for them.
• Living in the same city and the sometimes disagreeing, but always loving relationship I have with my siblings.
• All of the blessings God has bestowed upon me.
• The good and the bad boyfriend relationships I have had.  Even the bad ones taught me something.
• The employment opportunities I have had.
• The roof over my head, the food in my fridge and the bills being paid.
• Those who fight for our freedoms and keep us safe on a daily basis.
• The knowledge I have gained through education and life’s lessons.
• Waking up and getting out of my bed every day.

I am sure right after I publish this post, I will think of more things to add to my list.  These are just the ones that instantly come to my mind.  What are some things that you appreciate a little more now that you are older?

Image courtesy of Destination 360