thankful.

I'm sorting through some things in my life that stress me out.  I'm working on phasing out the stress and focusing on the many blessings that I have.  Coming home to my smiling girl is something that will never fail to brighten my day.

When I spend time with her and realize her lack of care for the way the world sees her, the way she has no pressure to please anyone-then my eyes are opened to what life should really be about.  Spending time with those that surround you with genuine care and love.  Following in the footsteps of my Lord to be a better person.  Learning about things that I am passionate about.  Cherishing moments with  my family and true friends.

I'm realizing that life is too short.  We're only here once and I know I want to spend it happy and fulfilled.  I want my husband and children to know that I am happy, much of it due to them.  I am learning that the only person's judgements I need care about are His.  I'm working on a blossoming reunion with Him, and although it's a work in progress, it consumes my life which is how it should be.

I find myself so often feeling sorry for myself, counting the things that went unexpected over the day, worrying about the perceptions of others.

And then I am called to wake up.

There are mothers losing children, families with no place to live, and parents who don't know where their children's next meal will come from.

I have a whole lot to be thankful for.

My favorite part of the day is late evening and right before bedtime.  I spend time reading and rereading the same books to Ruby, talking about letters, and colors, and animals.  I watch her love on her baby sibling who she doesn't yet know, but loves tremendously.  We share hot chocolate and animal crackers, we make silly noises and end up in fits of giggles.

Most of all, we love.

Seeing my own sweet family blossom before my very eyes is something I cannot put into words.  I'm so very thankful for all that I have.