Thankful

It happens every year.  I blog every day the entire month of October and then I hit a wall.  I run out of things to say for a few weeks.  In years past, I have blogged every day in November to list all the things I'm thankful for.  Being that it is the 19th of the month...I failed at that one :-)

There are so many things I'm thankful for that I couldn't possibly put them all into words or even into one blog.  See my new header?  I'm so grateful for those 3 fabulous children that it brings tears into my eyes.  I love the enthusiasm, focus, and unconditional love from my oldest.  I love the independence, humor and kindness of my middle son.  I love the smile, determination, and pure joy that radiates from my youngest.  God knew what I wanted and needed when I didn't.  They are each a perfect combination of my husband and I (both good points and the bad habits).  Each different and unique, but very similar at the same time.  I'm thankful for my husband, his love and support.  Grateful for his job that affords me to stay home with our children.

I'm thankful for the things that we sometimes take for granted...our freedom, a home, food, heat, clothing.  Grateful for our families.  Our friends and neighbors that have turned into our village here.

I am grateful for the new friends that have entered into my life because of the new "club" we have joined.  Such fabulous families that we may not have met otherwise.  How lucky we are!

This one will not make sense to everyone.  I'm grateful that I see these things clearer because I was afraid that they would be taken away.  Twice we thought we were going to lose Hailey...once at birth (her lungs were worse than I realized) and then again at open heart surgery.  Milestones...they have always been celebrated and appreciated, but they mean so much more when you realize they are not guaranteed.

So this Thanksgiving...I'm thankful for so much and I hope that everyone in my life realizes how thankful I am for them. 

A few more pictures of my 3 blessings (some better than others)...