A Thankful Reflection

Goodness knows I really shouldn't be taking the time to blog tonight. I'm way behind on emails and blog comments because I'm trying to stay OFF the computer and get some neglected tasks handled. But since this is my outlet for recording my thoughts about the day, I just couldn't let this day end without an entry.

I find it really sad that I can go for days (or even weeks) going through the motions of life without stopping to really appreciate all that we have been blessed with. You know what I mean? Juggling schedules, finding work/home balance, time is short, the "to-do's" are always longer than there are hours in the day? For some reason, today I am just overwhelmed with all the blessings in my life and a genuine appreciation for all the things I in no way deserve. I know there are many that haven't even crossed my mind today, but here are a few:

1. So thankful for modern medicine and the power of healing. One year ago today, I wrenched a disc that had been giving me fits for months. I would spend the next 10 days in bed waiting for surgery --- even strong pain meds gave little relief during that time. I'm thankful today to be *mostly* pain free and not have to explain to a two-year old that I can't pick him up!

2. So thankful that even in today's labor market, my husband is starting a new job on Monday after more than 10 years of self-employment. It's tough out there. Everywhere he looked, they are getting so many applicants for each job it's hard to be THE ONE that stands out and gets hired.

3. So thankful for our new home. When you get to be as old as we are, you know exactly what features you're looking for if you're going to go to all the trouble of moving. This house had everything on our "must-have" list (even if alot of them need repairing or updating) plus a few more.

When we would talk about finding a new house, Addison would always say she wanted a creek. Can you imagine how excited we were, after we had already bought the house, to find out there is a creek just behind the treeline in the backyard? It's been mostly dried up this summer, but the Gustav remnants made for a little wading fun today!

4. So thankful for my two beautiful, healthy and amazing children. I had read the statistics on having kids late in life, and they're not very encouraging if you're one of those women of *advanced maternal age*. I know I'm so blessed to have these two considering we didn't even start trying until I was 39! They amaze me every day with their love for life and learning. Tonight as I'm snuggling Clark before bed, he blurts out, "Be ye kind one to another!" I had no idea he was already memorizing Bible verses at preschool...and he got this one down pat.

I know there are so many more....but the pillows are calling. Just remind me next time I start whining of all I have to be thankful for, okay?

Friday Sketchers #17

Sigh! I've been needing to make cards all week, but life seems to be moving at warp speed. Glad I was at least able to use Friday Sketchers #17 before it turns to the next Friday (at least here in the US). Sympathy cards are always so hard for me, and I needed to send two this week!!! Picking the right image, the right colors, the right papers. I wanted to use my Hydrangea Vase image and sympathy sentiment from Treehouse Stamps. Finally I found this paper from Fancy Pants that seemed to work. I liked the image and paper so much, I made another one. And I even have one more image already colored. Maybe I can actually get one card in my stash, so the next time there is a need I won't have to go through this process again!



I'll leave you with a picture of a little guy visiting by our back step yesterday.

My Wish

Isn't is funny how we find our inspiration? After reading (and listening to) Angela's blog entry yesterday morning, I was so compelled to get this picture scrapped. I used Stuck Sketch #53 and pp by Rhonna Farrer. Even after listening to these words practice after practice, I still get teary-eyed when I hear this song. I hope you have a minute to listen to the words...then go hug your little ones or scrap a layout letting them know your wishes for them!