Being thankful....

Our dinner table starts this post off with what I have to be thankful for....



It's really easy for me to think that I don't have much to be thankful for given the recent events around my health. But that simply wouldn't be the truth. I have much to be thankful for. I am blessed with the most amazing family ever. Starting with a partner who is always there for me no matter what. When we married, we took vows that we both take very seriously. I am grateful beyond belief that I have partner who not only loves me, but loves the me that continues to evolve into someone that we have no clue where I will end up. Cheryl, for that I am grateful. I am thankful for the 2 beautiful, smart and just perfect children that I have. My girls are as different as night and day and I marvel everyday at the gifts that they bring. Even when I am as frustrated and at the end of my rope as one can be, they give me the gift of stopping, and turning around and starting over again.

I am thankful that I have found a spiritual life that sustains me. I know that I came back to God at a time when I would need Him the most. I can honestly say that I haven't once felt angry with God for the medical stuff thaT is going on with me. God knows what I need. I simply need to stop and listen to what He is telling me. And keep faith that He does indeed know best.

I am thankful that I have life. As much as I grouse about how hard things are I do have a good life. I live in a nice home that has heat in the winter and central air in the summer. We have 2 cars that run each with car seats that keep Katie safe (thank you Estelle - how we'll ever repay you, I don't know). We have food in our cupboards and a beautiful and safe yard in a neighborhood where our family is accepted.

I am thankful for all the online friends that I have made. Friends that have pulled us through some of the toughest times of our lives. They continue to give and give from the generouseness of their hearts. I know that should the tables ever turn, I too would give what I could to someone who needed it. I am thankful too for my IRL friends. No one in this world should ever have to go through life without friends and I have to admit that I have some of the best.

So, thank you to everyone who has written me words of encouragement, kicked my butt when I needed it and gave me hugs when I needed them.

The next few months are going to be rocky. Getting through Christmas, then the back surgery will be daunting, but as long as I know you all have my back, I know that I will make it through.

Thank you all! I appreciate you all for all the gifts of love that you have given me and my family.