THANKSGIVING

I've been trying to find the time to sit down and write something meaningful; for 4 days now. I have so many thoughts in my head that I would like to get down on paper, so to speak, and have just not had the time to get it all out. The kids are still sick and off kilter, thus creating havoc with the daily grind. Dare I complain though - it's a blessing that I so long waited for. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

It's a special day today for many reasons, not the least of which is that it's a time to count our blessings and thank God for everything in our lives. I haven't gone back and read last years Thanksgiving post that I wrote but something tells me that I was probably having many of the same thoughts I'm having today. Cole had been home for one day and I don't think I've ever been so thankful in my entire life to finally have both boys home and well enough to be there. It was almost overwhelming.

This year, we are even more thankful for all that we have. It's amazing how far we've come - and how much has changed. I look at the kids in awe - that they came from those little 2 pounders to where they are today. They are such little people already - it's really amazing. Kids aside, it's been a wonderful year for me in many ways. My life has been opened up to some amazing people and things. I am thankful for that opportunity and the many people I have met through the experiences we have had. Although life seems to be crazy busy all of the time, it's very full - and fulfilling.


As we scurry around this morning preparing for a feast for 14, I feel unrattled. A few years ago, I would have been so stressed and crazy trying to make everything perfect. Always knowing that it was the "company" that was the most important thing, my priorities were a bit different. And I usually did sweat the small stuff. Not any more. Now, it really doesn't matter if the house is dirty (and it is, my cleaning lady had surgery and is laid up) or if the table centerpiece isn't perfect. It doesn't matter that there are toys strewn about or that the laundry room is in shambles. Or that our kitchen counter looks like a pharmacy and the silver isn't perfectly polished. After the year we've had, and the stress that came along with it - not much rattles me like it used to.

There are so many young people today who cannot be with their loved ones - particularly those who are serving in Iraq and surrounding areas. Our thoughts are with them during holiday time too - we are fortunate to have everyone here with us.

Happy Thanksgiving to you - enjoy this thankful day! More later when I have more time...