Goodbye 2012

I thought I would end 2012 with a post of gratitude. This is by no means a list of everything that I am thankful for but just a few. 1. I am thankful for my marriage. I am married to a hard working, funny, handsome and generous man. He is an excellent provider for our family, he is supportive, he is a great father and most importantly...he makes me laugh and smile everyday. I am very blessed to be married to someone who loves me completely and unconditionally. 2. I am thankful for my first born son, Seth. He is funny like his dad. He has a big heart and tries to maintain a tough exterior. He has a heart for homeless people and often offers up his own money (and mine) to them. It is a joy to watch him grow into a young man. He loves his daddy and wants to be just like him and he loves to cuddle with his mommy. He has taught me generosity. 3. For my little Evan. He is a sweetheart. He loves to take care of babies and little kids. He loves school and learning. He can create something amazing out of simple everyday household items. He's my only son without blue eyes but with hazel eyes like me. He is never in a hurry and can't understand why you should ever be. He has taught me to stop and smell the roses. 4. I am thankful for my Levi. That boy has a smile that can light up a room. He was born with a smile and it rarely leaves his face. He can talk to complete strangers like they've been friends his whole life....he just loves people that much. He has taught me to be more joyful. 5. For my baby boy, Kaiaphas. He is my last little baby boy. He completes us. He has a great smile like Levi. He is a ball full of energy and already keeps me on my toes. He was the toughest baby to get to sleep. We have had many middle of the night chats but he has taught me to be more appreciative of things like his smile at night that has been saved only for me. 6. I am thankful for my parents. The have been married for 40 years and have not only taught me with words and advice but also by example that marriage is forever. One of my greatest childhood memories is walking into a room and seeing my parents dancing. Sometimes music was playing and sometimes it was not but what I saw each time is that no matter what my parents were dealing with they loved each other. They loved each other enough to stay connected despite both of them working full time, raising two kids, and dealing with whatever life brought them. I am blessed. Tonight I count my blessings and resolve to continue to do so throughout 2013.

Kai's First Christmas Present