Feeling Thankful And Grateful.

A trip to the supermarket.

We've been in the grips of a nasty cold front for the last few days, and in fact it has been so freezing cold that yours truly has eschewed the lure of walking. Not worth slipping on an icy patch...and of course a dose of laziness to boot. Going outside when even during a sunny afternoon the temperature only reaches a high of minus 5 degrees, is not ideal, but the Bobster wanted to go to the shop yesterday.

We ventured out at half past two and even our chariot would have rather stayed under cover, as it took a nerve wracking two tries to start its engine. The trip there ( yes, living in the country makes any outing an adventure of sorts ) was icy but fine and we arrived safely at the Kofidisch petrol station as the needle had suddenly strayed rather close to that ominous red territory.

It was so cold that the owner had to ask me whether our chariot preferred petrol or diesel. He has never asked before and by the way, he is a most interesting man. A man who's previously worn the hat of mayor ( for 20 odd years ) and teacher. He had the foresight to town plan his village in such a way that now it is thriving which sadly some villages aren't as the town planning isn't to everyone's forte.

Anyway, we did a small grocery shop at the local Spar and as we came out to pack our groceries into the car ( straight from the trolley into a big plastic container thus cutting out the nasty middle man, a.k.a. plastic bags ) and even those few minutes were freezing and my fingers were numb, a few thoughts flashed through my mind;

• I am so grateful that we have a warm place to go to...many people don't.
• I am so thankful that we have money to buy food...many people don't.
• I am so grateful that we have the ability to heat our home....many people can't.
• I am so thankful that we have warm jackets, beanies and gloves...many people don't.

The basics of life are what is vital and important yet so often we forget to appreciate it. Just imagine being homeless during any winter, especially a cold one like this one...

Biggi