Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Three Gifts Red

Today's Joy Dare (scroll down to the end of the 02.06.12 post to see the February Challenge): 3 Gifts Red.

When I saw that last night, I admit I wondered if I could complete the task sincerely. Sure, I could say my hair. It truly is a gift - the only physical feature I have that I can honestly say I've always liked in spite of all the teasing it earned me. But that seems superficial and lame. Really - three RED gifts? Can it be done?

I set out this morning, camera in hand, determined to find three new gifts to give thanks for - new meaning something I hadn't already counted. I prayed for God to open my eyes and this is what I found:


A Canadian flag. Yes, I'm proud to be Canadian, but more than that I'm thankful to live in such a beautiful country where I have so many privileges and so few worries.




Our quad. A red Polaris. It serves us functionally - add a blade to the front for faster and easier snow removal or strap heavy items to the back to move them, and FUNctionally - add the "Hillbilly wagon" behind for family trips to the river or hook the sled on the back for fun in the snow. It's also a great vehicle for a romantic and adventurous date for two!

*Curious about how the Hillbilly Wagon got its name? Think dilapidated old converted and patched up tent trailer + Beverley Hillbillies. The wagon earned its name the day we hooked it up behind the quad and perched Grandma - with a broken foot - in it on a lawn chair to go to the river.




My sweet man's Sears Craftsman toolbox. Yep, I'm thankful for this dirty old thing and the large wooden bench beside it. Why? Because it holds many of the tools he has used to make my visions for our home come true.

I was skeptical that I could do it, find three red gifts. To be honest I feel the same way about tomorrow, but I love a good challenge. And really, any challenge that has me on the lookout for blessings is one worth taking on - whether I find the three items the challenge asks for or three of my own.

6 comments:

  1. LOVE it!! So far today I've found red fabric on a quilt glowing vibrantly in the morning sunshine--love the ladies that made that quilt for me--and red cheeks on a boy who'd been playing outside. On the lookout for #3.

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    1. :) I love your description of your quilt, and red cheeks and noses on happy children are one of the greatest gifts ever! Can't wait to hear what your third is.

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  2. I know. I was racking my brain. I was like "God, help me think of ones that are meaningful as well. I fell asleep and then when I was up in the night I remembered some red gifts that are not hugely inspirational....but great for me. Looking forward to tomorrow's challenge!

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    1. Your gifts for today were great! In fact, I could have used some of the same ones but I didn't want to copy. ;)

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  3. You're such a great writer Mel. I'm so glad you're doing this. Wonderful imagery! xoxo

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