Thankful

Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone! I hope you have a wonderful holiday weekend and that the turkey isn't the only thing that will be stuffed by the end of the day.

In light of the occasion, I thought it appropriate to list a few things that I am grateful for. I know that I am blessed beyond measure, but it never hurts to try to recognize those things in our lives that make us happy day in and day out.

My short list, including the things that I am MOST grateful for:

DH - He has given me my 2 most precious titles; Wife and Mother. Eternity truly isn't long enough to spend with this man. He holds my heart and nurtures it everyday. I love him with every ounce of my existence.

LJ - No one can make me smile like she does. She is brilliant in every way, and makes me proud beyond measure. There are no words to express the love I have for her, and no greater blessing.

My inlaws (brothers, sisters, and parents.) - Even though I sometimes get frustrated, I must give them credit where credit is due. They have taken me in as a part of their family so completely that it is hard to believe that I am "just an inlaw" to them. I know that when it boils down, any one of them would walk through fire for me. Not many people can say that. I am so thankful for the love that they show me. I love each of them so much.

My friends - Both IRL, and here. I have felt so much support in all that has happened. Since my second surgery, I still haven't had to make a meal for my family. My friends and neighbors happily volunteered to bring us dinner for the last week, with plenty of leftovers to tide us over through lunch the next day. We have been served with the most dignity and grace imaginable. We have felt so loved. Although most don't really "get it", they do what they can to lighten our burden. We have been so deeply touched with kindness from all directions. To all of YOU -- thank you for always being here. It helps me more than I can ever tell you to know that you all understand, even if it is on a different level. Everyone has different experiences, and yet we are bound together with a single thread. I feel so blessed to have been welcomed into this community, although we all agree that it sucks to be here in the first place.

I hope you all have such a wonderful day today, and that the celebration happily lasts all weekend. We all have something to be thankful for, no matter how big or how small. I am grateful that I am able to recognize my blessings, and thank God for them everyday. Thank you for being one of my blessings. I am sincerely grateful for each of you, and for the friendship you so readily supply. Please let me know if I can ever help any of you, in any way. I am glad to do it. Whether it be a late night stressfest or just a virtual hug, I'd be happy to be your "person."

Happy Thanksgiving!