A Day Of Thanks

Today, November 26, 2009, is a day to reflect and give thanks to what we are blessed with each and every day of our lives. Just this time last year I was preparing the Thanksgiving meal (as I am doing this year). I had just given birth to my second child, Ethan, a month and 1/2 earlier. I was also preparing (emotionally) for a 2nd surgery (hysterectomy) scheduled for less than a month away. We made it through it all (cancer free was the outcome of the biopsy) and here we are today, reflecting. Thank you, God, for my health.

This year was a whirlwind to say the least. Ethan is a year old and Tyler is four. They play together, they fight with each other, they hug each other, and give kisses to each other. Tyler is such an independent little girl (just like her mommy). She is confident, happy, loving, and full of life and energy. Ethan is an amazing little boy. He's so strong willed trying so hard to keep up with his big sister, climbing everything in sight, trying to read his books, banging and rough housing just like little boys do. I can't help but feel blessed every time I'm with them. Thank you, God, for my children.

My husband has been my solid rock since the day I met him. In this last year he has really stepped up and re-defined support and partnership. He has cared for the children while I was in the hospital (both times), he has taken Tyler out on daddy/daughter dates when Ethan was just born to show her she is also special. He has forgiven my mood swings as my hormones have roller-coastered throughout the year. He continued to volunteer as a youth football coach and give back to his community through something he loves and knows. My husband has stayed positive in a year that other's would disconnect. Thank you, God, for my husband.

My mother, sister, and father are with me every step of the way in this game we call life. My mother has come out throughout the year to help with the birth and 2nd surgery. She comes out as often as possible to simply visit and through Grammy style love to the kids. She too, has, forgiven my mood swings and simply shared her wisdom (she's been there too you know). She's taught me how to be a better mom, how to relax (well a little), how to keep smiling through it all, and of course how to cook. Robin pings me on a regular basis just to check in and say hello. She continues to extend kind words and confide in me as only sisters do. My father has grown so much this last year. I love his smiles, his positive statements, and his reminders that he loves me. Thank you, God, for my family.

I'm blessed to still have my grandmother of 89 years old (as of tomorrow). Throughout my life she has shared so much wisdom with me. Her mantra is "It can always be worse." It's important to remember daily that no matter what we are going through, someone else may be suffering worse and need our love, support, and prayers. Thank you, God, for Memere.

I've had a great year with my in-laws. As often as I miss my family and friends back east, I am happy that they are just an hour away so that we can visit and show my children what family is. They are a family of warmth, love, giving hearts, laughter, and kind words. Thank you, God, for my in-laws.

Technology continues to advance so quickly that I can't even keep up. I've been able to connect with folks I hardly ever talk to; including past high-school friends, cousins, child-hood friends, past co-workers and even some current co-workers. We get to share our ups and downs, pictures and videos, and links and games. How cool is that. Thank you, God, for technology and bringing me together in some way with these folks.

In this struggling economy, I still have a job. I've made it through many lay-offs and come out on the other side. I've got one of the best jobs around. It allows me to take time off as needed to run errands, volunteer at kids school, work from home, work out, and make a very good wage. I've formed wonderful friendships through the many teams I've had the opportunity to work on. Thank you, God, for my job.

As you can see, I have so much to be thankful for each and every day. On this day of Thanksgiving, I sit here in awe of what my life is. It is truly the best life!!