Thankfulness 11/20/2007

With Thanksgiving only a few days away, I have thoughts of dinner plans and recipies running through my head. What a great time of year--a time to put my improved baking skills to the test, and a day to dedicate to family. However, since being married, the holidays have proven to be the most stressful time of year, as far as family goes. Sad. Nate’s parents are divorced and do not celebrate anything together. Even our wedding landed us in a pickle. His Dad didn’t talk to us for a few months after the fact. I guess they thought that one party wouldn’t be there for the biggest day of our lives together? I’m not sure the thinking. So, the holidays for Nate, especially, are heart-wrenching. He hates the idea that we have to devote our time to one of the three families at a time. If only we could say, “We’re celebrating at our place and if you want to join--come on. The more the merrier--regardless of whether or not you drink alcohol or if you had five kids together and haven’t spoke in ten+ years. WE DON’T CARE! And if you do, stay home!” But, unfortunately this would never happen and we don’t think our small family is big enough or there is enough distance between our family and the others to ditch all the commotion. What’s worse is that we actually look forward to the day that we can. But setting all this aside, there are so many things that I am grateful for. Here’s a short list:

My health and that of my family members.

My loving and devoted husband.

My happy, beautiful, and bright daughter.

Easy pregnancies.

Loyal and long-time friends.

My relationship with God and His unconditional love!

The financial blessings that God blesses my family with.

The gifts that I’ve been blessed with--I’m so happy that God has given me passion--to feel passionate about the things we love is infectious and a blessing to those around us.

Silence--the older I get, the more I need of it. How wonderful it is.

Inspired individuals who are extending their gift. To be inspired is a wonderful thing.

Happiness found in the simple things--i.e. a walk around the neighborhood, a cup of coffee, laughter.

Motherhood and all that it teaches me about what really matters and so many things about myself. God is constantly teaching me.

The peaceful moments, though, I know that storms are inevitable and opportunities for growth.