Happy Thanksgiving!

Hello friends,

I know - you are probably shocked to actually see an update! :)

I apologize for disappearing from the blogging world for the last couple of weeks. We have been quite busy - but even more than that . . . there are times I just need to step back and take a break from the computer. The computer and blogging can become so addictive at times and when I reach the realization that all of my free time is spent in front of the computer - I know I need a break. I guess you could say that I gave myself a much-needed computer time-out! :) I have rarely turned my computer on during the last couple of weeks - and didn't read any blogs or even click on my own. No, I took a break from technology and found that I really enjoyed it. What did we do 20 years ago without the internet??? :0)

I'm back - feeling refreshed - yet not quite ready to dive back in to blogging. I enjoyed my time away too much. But I do miss you and wanted to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving! This is such a beautiful time of year and the excitement is thick in our house as the holidays approach. I just love this time of year - lots of food, fun times with family, feeling so thankful and early morning shopping - what could be better than that? :)

I am truly humbled and overwhelmed by my blessings this year. I feel so very thankful for so many things and I'm not sure I could even put it into words. God has blessed me greatly with His love, peace and joy and I am truly so thankful for this life I live with my husband and children. But I think I said it best last year . . . (although I admit to editing it a little for this year!)

"There is so much to be thankful for this year. So many times our days are busy and hectic and it is hard to slow down and reflect on all the blessings in our life. Thanksgiving makes us do that.

It makes me aware of how faithful our God is and how thankful we are that he showers us with forgiveness, grace and love.

It makes me aware of how much my husband does each day for our family, how special he is in so many ways and how thankful I am to be his wife and feel his love.

It makes me aware of each hug I get from Kyle, every joke that Brandon tells me and how Devin helps me everyday. How thankful I am to be their mother. I am so thankful for the joy my guys bring to my days.

It makes me aware of Allie's giggle and how thankful I am that she is my daughter. I am so thankful for her fun personality - she is truly beautiful on the inside and out!

It makes me aware of my mom's good cooking and how thankful I am for all that she does for us everyday. I have been so blessed with a mom who is also my friend.

It makes me aware of how truly thankful I am for my family. They are always there for us and I love how we are all so close.

It makes me aware of the fact that I am missing Jacob - especially today - but how thankful I am that he was my son. How thankful I am for the way he forever blessed my life in just 6 short years. How thankful I am to know that he lives in Heaven and one day I will see him again.

It makes me aware of how all of you have supported our family over the years with your prayers and encouragement. How honored I am to call you my friend and I am so thankful that you continue to bless our lives!

It makes me aware of how many blessings surround me everyday and I am so very thankful not just at Thanksgiving . . . but everyday! Truly I am blessed beyond measure and I give thanks to God!"

Here's a few pictures from the last couple of weeks. Not too many of the boys . . . they are usually in school and are at that age when they avoid the camera if at all possible! Thankfully they will humor me occasionally and get in the picture with their sister. :)

Devin taught Allie to make a mad face - which is so funny!
Here they are making a mad face together.

And here's a recent collage of my adorable nephew!

I wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving! May your day be filled with love and blessings.


Ending with a scripture . . .

"It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to the Most High."
Psalm 92:1

Giving thanks,