Finding something to be thankful for

Now, in my head, I am quite positive that I am a blessed woman. I can definitely find something for which to thankful today.

Finding something to be thankful for on a bad day is a challenge at times.

I am first of all, quite tired and feeling a little stressed out with my schedule. This is my fault; I am going to have to streamline some things. Second of all, I am feeling a little upset about a personal issue; this is perhaps my fault, too, but whatever it is, I'm feeling a bit low about it. Third of all, I went to the orthodontist with my son today.

We have known he would need orthodontic work for two years now. We've simply been waiting for the orthodontist to tell us when. It's now. Well, within the next few months. In January, we will have molds, x-rays, etc. done and then consult with the treatment co-ordinator, where we will learn what the bottom line is, i.e. how much will this cost. I have a vague idea of what braces cost. However, I heard a patient today discussing his treatment contract with the treatment co-ordinator, and the figure $5, 900 was uttered.

Okay. I know that this patient is individual. His treatment may not be my son's treatment. But that is a scary number.

Our other son also needs work done, but his problem is not an overbite, but an underbite, and the orthodontist is waiting for him to finish growing a bit more. I have a feeling his day is coming, though.

Two kids with braces, a daughter in university.

Methinks that I won't be getting a dishwasher any time soon.

Now, the thankful part.

Well, I'm thankful that we have yet to pay one cent to the orthodontist. None of the appointments have necessitated a fee. We only pay when the work begins. Now, the cynic in me says, "Yes; and when you pay, you really pay." I will tell the cynic in me to be quiet: "Cynic; be quiet."

I'm thankful that we have a small amount of orthodontic coverage with our health insurance plan. It definitely won't cover it all, but any little bit helps.