Giving Thanks

"The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings." ~ Eric Hoffer, Reflections On The Human Condition

I become more and more conscious of taking time to truly appreciate the things I am thankful for. I believe in always counting blessings and never counting chickens before they've hatched. (Contributions from both Catholic school and farm life!)

My Family

My parents believed a less worldly lifestyle ensured strong, prepared and respectful children. We had daily chores and few luxuries (like television). Childhood on the farm prepared me to work hard, inspired me to rebuke excuses and taught me the value of a dollar. I am thankful to have a strong work ethic today and an unparalleled education because of my parents.

Grampa & Gramma Kontur

My grandparents believed in the power of family and the grace of God. Faith has been an ever-present facet of life. Grampa Kontur (above) taught me to give thanks each day. He believed if we surrendered our worries to God, lived honestly and worked hard, we would have everlasting life. Having lost both of my grandfathers in the past two years, I am thankful to have been given the opportunity to know them at all, to feel their love and to now see (and be part of) the legacy they have left behind.

Lacy (Sister), Sydni (VP, Smell No Evil, Ltd.), Me

I am lucky to have a network of caring and considerate friends from all walks of life. My ever expanding network of business colleagues includes my two business partners who help me navigate Smell No Evil, Ltd. and now AliMar Labs, LLC. I am thankful for the ability to maintain a healthy balance between my personal and professional lives and for the opportunities that have come my way as a result of maintaining that balance.

Mom, Her Brothers & Sisters

I live in America, the land of the free and the home of the brave. She's not perfect, none of us are. There are scars, bumps, bruises and a bloated deficit; but underneath it all she has determination, pride, grit and the desire to conquer seemingly impossible obstacles. America and I have a lot in common. I am thankful for all those who still believe in this country and what it stands for. For each and every brave soul who fights and especially those who have died to protect and defend her.

Dad, His Brothers & Sisters

"Thanksgiving is the holiday of peace, the celebration of work and the simple life... a true folk-festival that speaks the poetry of the turn of the seasons, the beauty of seedtime and harvest, the ripe product of the year - and the deep, deep connection of all these things with God." 

~ Ray Stannard Baker

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. Count your blessings, today and every day.

Allison B. Kontur

www.BathBodySupply.com