Giving Thanks

This is my first Thanksgiving away from family. I've always spent it with my family or Andy's. So, it's a bit different but it's okay. We get to double-dip this year. We're getting together with some of Andy's co-workers this evening for a Thanksgiving meal. Then on Saturday we are meeting at the church for another Thanksgiving meal. So, not too bad. I'm looking forward to my favorite item - the stuffing! This Thanksgiving, for some reason, I've been thinking a lot about how blessed I am. I have so many things to be grateful for. Here's my attempt to write them out:

• ANDY - When I met Andy almost 9 years ago, there's no way I could have known how lucky I was going to be. He takes such good care of our family. He truly amazes me and I'm thankful for all that he does.
• RACHEL - She brings so much joy and happiness to my life. Each day is an adventure with her and I'm so grateful to be her mom.
• BABY GIRL - I'm excited to be expecting another little girl. She's so active and doing so well. I can't wait to officially meet her.
• MY PARENTS - Their love, support, guidance, and example are priceless. A day rarely goes by that one of them doesn't call me and that means the world to me. I'm so grateful for all that they've done, all that they do, and all that I know they'll continue to do for me.
• MY IN-LAWS - I'm grateful for the son they raised. I definitely feel their love and am grateful for the relationship we have.
• MY BROTHERS - I'm so impressed at the men they have all become. I'm so grateful for many sweet memories of growing up with them. I know they'd do anything to protect me.
• FAMILY - All my sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, nieces, and nephews. I'm grateful to have such an extended family with so many fun, unique individuals. It definitely keeps life exciting!
• THE GOSPEL - I'm thankful to have the knowledge of my Heavenly Father and my Savior. I know I am a child of God and that He wants me to return to him some day. I'm so grateful for the knowledge and testimony I have.
• MY FRIENDS - The old and the new. I love all those that keep in touch and let me know what's going on with their lives. I'm grateful for all the new friends I've made here in Holland - for their support and love.
• MY HEALTH - I have been extremely blessed with great health. I'm amazed at my body and what it's capable of doing each and every day. It's such a blessing to feel good and to be able to enjoy each day.
• MY COMFORTS - I have a home, food, clothes, etc... So many things that are taken for granted every day. I'm so fortunate to have never gone without. I've never truly had to want for a need.

I could probably go on for quite awhile now that I've got the wheels turning. I am truly blessed. And as I think of all the wonderful people and things in my life, I realize how fragile they all are. Tomorrow is a new day and who knows what it will bring. But this very second I have so much to be grateful for. And no matter what tomorrow brings there are many things on this list that will never change.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving with those they love!