Things I am grateful for....

There are so many things that I am grateful for, we really do have such a blessed life.  These are in no particular order.

1.  Brothers - These two fight like cats and dogs and drive me crazy somedays but I know they share an amazing bond that I will never fully understand.  They can mess with each other all day long but someone else starts and it is not ok.  I am not sure there is any bond quite like brothers!

2.  Mothers and Sons - I always wanted a daughter, until I had my boys.  I know I would love a little girl but there is nothing quite like the relationship a mother has with her son.  Little boys are tough on the exterior but nothing can make them feel better than their moms, there is just something about boys and the love they feel for their mamas.  Just ask my husband,  I am very happy he has such a wonderful love for his own mother.

3.  Fathers and Sons - When I see my oldest son look at his father and believe that he is the most perfect human being on the planet and strive to be exactly like him, it melts my heart.  My boys believe that their father does no wrong and that is how it should be.  I know one day my husband and his sons will be best friends!

4.  Pets -Our pets are a huge part of our family.  I cannot imagine my life without my dogs.  Both my boys came home from the hospital to my oldest dog, Kasey.  It will be a very hard day when she is gone.  They are our fur children and we love them just as much as the rest of our family members!

5.  Husbands - I love this man so much!  I knew I loved from the time I was 15.  He is really such a wonderful, caring husband and father and I am so lucky to have him.  Not to mention he is a great handi-man to have!  His hands on skills when it comes to motors and welding amaze me everyday.  He is what one may consider a "man's man" and it not in the least bit romantic, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

6.  Extended Family - Without the support of my family and my in-laws, I am not sure I could do most of the things I do.  I love all these people so much and cannot imagine my life without a single one of them.  We may not always see eye to eye on situations and we may battle at times, but they are our family and we love all of them.  I have a huge appreciation for each one of them and all that they do.

 7.  Cousins - I love that my kids are so close and such good friends with all of their cousins.  I wasn't real close to my cousins growing up and I wish I had been.  In fact, I barely know any of them to this day.  I know my boys will carry on a special relationship with their cousins forever.

8.  My home - It is small and old, but I love my little home!  I keep wanting to get a bigger one and I am sure we will someday but man there is alot of memories in this house.  It is my home and it has provided us many good times over the years.

9.  Friends - I have some really, really great friends!  I didn't post a picture because I don't have one that includes them all and I feel like it should.  My friends help me cope with the stress of everyday life and I have cried on their shoulders more than once.  Sometimes it is just because I am mad at my husband and sometimes it is just because I am mad at my kids and sometimes it is just because I am mad at myself for being mad at my husband and kids. For whatever the reason is, they help me get through that moment and I am so grateful for all of them!!

When Rylan made out his thankful list at church he included books, bugs, flowers, school and water.  I love how simple those things are yet how much they fill the lives of children.  When I think about all the things I am thankful for I try and remember the simple things too.

Hope you have a happy and blessed 2012.  Happy New Year!!