Thanks

What do you do around Thanksgiving time? I always wonder if it is cliche to list out all of the things that I am thankful for, but then I say to myself, 'how is that cliche? If it is the only time during the year pretty much that you do!' I've often thought, well everyone knows what I'm thankful for and it's the same old thing every year, but then it NEVER gets old hearing it from others and reminding myself of those things every year at this time is something I could always use. I need this holiday and I love it! After Thanksgiving I feel like I am so blessed and fortunate. So without further ado, some of the things that I am most grateful for in my life right now:

Christopher Floyd. He builds me up and gives me confidence to continue. He believes in me when I begin to doubt. He provides for my needs and he keeps me smiling.

Lydia Carol. She lights up my day every day. I miss her when I am not with her and when I am with her, oh does she bring me so much pride and happiness! She definitely is 2 and pushes our buttons, but the joy she brings is overwhelming.

My Mom and Dad. It is the most comforting thing to know that I can call my parents and ask for support or advice with complete confidence that they will not push anything, will not judge us for the choices we make, and will give us unbiased advice and counsel. They will never insult us or make us feel incapable. They treat us as adults and love us unconditionally.

My sisters. I will always have friends at the reach of a telephone. How I wish we were closer! It just isn't the same over the phone, but it is enough to close the gap of loneliness sometimes.

Marcella. I can always call her for cooking advice, craft advice, advice about children, or anything. She has such talent and great homemaking skills! I am so grateful I have her to learn from.

Nicolette. She is such a calm and relaxed person. I love to call her and she has so much that she is doing and yet you'd never guess it. She handles everything with such grace, I always feel like I am important to her.

Becky. She is such a silly girl that I am grateful for her unpredictability. I am so grateful for the opportunity I have to be at her wedding and to watch her love develop.

Rachel. I miss her terribly! I feel like she is the furthest away from me...oh wait...she is. haha I am so grateful for Rachel's humor and genuine service. I am so excited to see her in a couple of weeks.

Jenny. I am so glad that I have another sister to add to my list! I am grateful for Jenny. She is a good example to me of a good mother and wife. She has been such a friend and support these past couple of years. I am so grateful to know that she is close by.

My brother. The other day I found a note from Justin that he left in my lunch in high school. He is such a good brother and I love him and am grateful for him. He is always so willing to help us with whatever we might need.

The babe. I will have to admit that this pregnancy has not been as smooth sailing as it was with Lydia. I have had much more nausea and cramping and I feel like I'm seven months pregnant already...but I am full of thanks for the little one that I am just starting to feel twirl around in my tummy! I am excited to meet this new little one and curious as to what this baby may hold in store for us. :)

My Aunties. These wonderful ladies bring me so much joy and comfort. I have felt so much love and support from them during these past years being away from my parents. I am very grateful to them and for their willingness to put us up for a night or two here and there. What kindred spirits they each are!

Nature. I have always been one to stop and notice the tiny leaf that fell happened to fall on my head as the wind blew, the little touch of color on its edges. The fresh cool air in the morning as I am out of breath walking up the hill to campus. The beauty of large flakes of snow falling so peacefully outside and the smell of fires and cinnamon in the air. I say a little prayer in my heart several times daily for these little blessings that lift my spirits. I am truly thankful for the beauty of the earth.

Temples. I get to be with my family forever. I get to know the Father's plan with greater understanding. I get to feel peace, confidence, and strength when I go there.

Umbrellas. So happy when I get to enjoy the rain with an umbrella. If it's pouring, scrap it, I don't mind getting dumped on every once in a while, but if it has been drizzling all day or for several days, I am grateful for the umbrella.

Organic Chemistry Tests. Not only am I one step closer to being done with that class, but they remind me that I am nothing and that I will go no where without divine help.

Free Afternoons. I am always tickled when I find myself with a completely free afternoon that I get to spend with my sweet little girl. They are far too rare and I hope that I will have more of them by moving to our new house in Provo.

Warm socks.

Funny jokes.

Smiles.

Genuine kindness.

Strollers.

Comfy pants.

Mascara.

Sitting in good company.

Listening to my daughter sing.

.....and that's only just a few.

When it all comes down to it I just need to say; thanks! That's all. Happy Thanksgiving.