Here it is Thanksgiving Day and naturally I begin thinking of all the things I have to be thankful for. Wow! I'm overwhelmed! I need to get it all out so I decide, in the midst of preparing for a relaxing day with friends and family, that I need to write about it. It's been too long since I've felt the need to write, but I know that writing reminds me of all the moments in life I have to share and be grateful for.
One of the last things I shared in my blog was about my fears of having a second baby. Yes, it's been that long. By now those fears have come and gone. I now have the greatest gift I've ever received, my baby girl, Shyloh Grace. I can't even explain how she has changed my world. First of all she is the best baby. Since day one she has, and there is no exaggeration here, been nothing but smiles! She is the epitome of her name, Shyloh Grace; peace/tranquility and of course, grace. She has been the peace in the midst of all our storms. She makes us slow down and enjoy our surroundings, our world. Her smile brings joy in the midst of life's craziest moments. I believe with all my heart that she was sent here from heaven to remind Jason and I of God's overwhelming love for us. And now, she is six months old! I can't even believe it. I'm so thankful for my little Shyloh Grace. Here's a pic so you can just get a hint of what I get to experience every day:
Now of course I must share with you my other pride and joy. Our son, Justice. He is amazing! He is the essence of "boy" in every sense of the word. He loves to play, get dirty, throw things, climb, jump, disobey, wrestle, play cars, and of course cuddle with mommy. There is a slight chance he will end up a mama's boy, but don't tell him I told you. I enjoy every moment watching him learn. I took him to the doctor a few days ago and proved what I already knew to be true... that he is BRILLIANT! The doctor asked me how large his vocabulary was. She guessed 10-20 words, as if that would be normal. At that I laughed and said oh no, he speaks in full sentences and has a very large vocabulary. She thought by "full sentences" I must mean he could put two word phrases together. I laughed again and said, "No he can say full sentences, like 'Can I go with you?'" He is just 22 months and indeed is brilliant. Her expectations were blown, as mine are on a daily basis. I love my little "Monkey Moo" and am so thankful for him.
Then there is my "hubs". I don't even know where to start with how I am thankful for him. I don't know if I always understand the ways he makes my life complete. He is amazing. Seriously, Jason is a man of God, like I rarely see. He is constantly pressing in to the will of God for his life and ultimately our life. He is an amazing preacher, speaker, encourager and leader. He loves doing life and ministry and is rarely overrun by the two. I adore him and I admire him. I respect him and love him. I wish I could be like him! I love how the two of us are literally two puzzle pieces made one. He is an amazing father. He encourages me to dream and pushes me to be better. It will be 7 years on January 1st, but almost 20 years since I first met him in 5th grade! It is crazy to see what God has done through our lives together and I'm so excited to watch as he continues to use my man for great things!
These are just a few of the things I have to be thankful for, but there is so much more. I'll just list a few: amazing friends, grandmas & grandpas, provision, health, love, joy, and an amazing God who always takes care of our every need.
Today, slow down, take time to really appreciate what you have as we go into the hustle & bustle of the Christmas season. Thank God for what He's given you.
Praying an amazing Thanksgiving to all my friends and family!
