Seven things to be grateful for:

For automatic dishwashers. They make it possible to get out of the kitchen before the family come in for their after-dinner snacks.

For husbands who attack small repair jobs around the house. They usually make them big enough to call in professionals.

For the bathtub the one place the family allows Mom some time to herself.

For children who put away their things and clean up after themselves. They're such a joy you hate to see them go home to their own parents.

For gardening. It's a relief to deal with dirt outside the house for a change.

For teenagers. They give parents an opportunity to learn a second language.

For smoke alarms. They let you know when the turkey's done.