Full of Thanks

Isn’t it amazing how much can happen in a year? Ever since Jim and I got married it has been such an incredible ride and we are still getting surprises all the time!! All I know is that for the past 5 Thanksgivings I longed to share our love, food, and home with our families and it never happened because of distance and timing. We always made the most of the day and laughed and appreciated each other, but something was missing because we couldn’t smile across the table from our parents and siblings too. Twelve months ago I really never imagined we would be back in Ohio and here to share the big day with everyone but once again….surprise!! The only way the day could be more perfect is if Jim’s family were here to share it also. They are in Florida and I’ve heard their feasts are legendary and I wish we could be there too!!:) Still, I am so excited for the boys to wake up to a FULL house of people, music, the smell of turkey and stuffing, and the promise of a day with no rushing, stress, or commitments. Each year Jim and I write down 20 things we are thankful for in the past year (well, I basically make him do it and he rolls his eyes) haha. This year I sat down to do that and had to stop in the middle of it because I was so emotional. We just never know how much time we have with family and friends, and I’m just overwhelmed when I think of all God has provided in the past year. We are not rich, but we are so wealthy in blessings and I, too easily forget that. Every single day my healthy children and husband find new ways to make me laugh and we share so many giggles and special moments. That alone is worth more than any million-dollar paycheck or new big house. Earlier this week I was getting so frustrated with Grant because he hasn’t been napping (and mommy only sleeps when Grants sleeps)! The same day I took Gabe to swimming lessons and sat in the lobby reading an article about a mom who lost her daughter. After getting severe strep throat, this woman’s sweet sticky-handed 5 year old little girl had died. That put it into perspective for me, how precious our time is, and how important it is to cherish every moment and not sweat the small stuff. Anyway, I better sign off before I start to break down again.:) I hope that your Thanksgiving is wonderful, YUMMY, blessed, and full of fun….even if it’s dysfunctional (like my family) Lol!!:) Happy Thanksgiving!!!