Lent... and not the kind from your belly button

I'm not part of a religion that actively participates in Lent, but I think it's not a bad idea. I see lent as giving up something for 40 days to partially acknowledge and feel the sacrifice that Jesus gave for us. I know that lent is more than that, but I still want to give a little of myself (and try to get rid of a sin while I'm at it) to help me recognize that sacrifice.

So, all of that said, what am I giving up? Jealousy. A few weeks ago at church, we were asked to, privately and anonymously, write down the "ugly" in our lives that we have made "invisible". Things in our life where we were not acting as God would like us (Video/ audio of that sermon; Click on the one from February 27, 2011). One of the things I wrote down on my list was jealousy. I am feeling jealousy in places where I should be feeling joy for someone else or should be happy with what I have. Therefore, I need to get rid of this. And Lent 2011 is the perfect stepping stone. I am going to do my best to not be jealous. To not "Covet thy neighbor's donkey". :)

I know this will be difficult, but, so far, whenever I feel that jealousy creeping in, I try to think of things I am thankful for. I plan on doing this kinda like this book (and blog) started people doing. Other people have started doing a similar thing where they randomly write down lists of things they are thankful for on their blogs. I'll be starting my list today and aiming for 1000, but I won't beat myself up about it if I don't get there exactly. I'll just be thankful I tried.

{For these things I am thankful; this makes me happy: Things 1-11}

1. An understanding outlet for my feelings. I love this blog and my blog audience.

2. My husband's knack for telling the cutest lame jokes.

3. Sneaky puppy kisses on my ankles.

4. Good deeds. It makes me happy when others are made happy by my actions.

5. Zaxby's ice

6. Insulin and an insulin pump to cover my dinner (Not everybody is this lucky)

7. I have the best family, extended family and in-laws ever. They love me for being me.

8. Stupid parody movies. ha ha

9. Completing tedious tasks

10. The anticipation of a visit from my best friend. 13 days: what what!

11. Being able to snuggle with my foxy dog, Izzie

A fox and Izzie... They look quite similar in these photos.