It is that time of year again. Time for me to spill my guts on what I am grateful for this year. Last year I was thankful that Sadie was going to be born very soon. I am in shock that this year I will be thankful my morning sickness is going to be over very soon. So, I am doing it now, since I have a belly full of ginger ale, and I am in a moderately good mood today!
1.Faith-James an I have had our faith tested in many ways this last year. Faith that we would survive James quitting his full time job and going to school full time. Faith that Sadie would be alright. Faith that Evan would pull through his delays and brain tumor. Faith that I could potty train Makayla. Faith that James Micheal would do well in school. And Faith that having another baby so quickly would be a blessing. I would have to say I am very grateful for the opportunities I have had to have faith this year.
2. Trials-I know it seems like a weird thing to be grateful for, but I am. I am grateful that the Lord has decided that we should not settle for being mediocre. There is so much we can achieve in life, if only we choose to let the trials in and let them consume us for awhile, and then...we pull through, stronger and better. I know there have been times in my life where I thought it was impossible to pull out of it, but I did, with trust in the Lord, and it made me better and more sympathetic to those around me.
3.Prayer/Priesthood- When we found out about Evan's brain tumor I have never felt so drawn to prayer and priesthood blessings, not even with Makayla. I was afraid, not of the future but of the faith I would have to put in God's hands. It was scary to have something in my life that was so uncontrollable. But God showed me a better way, He made me rely on Him completely. And I know our whole family is better for it especially James and I!!
4. Kids- I know you guys were wondering when it was coming. Let's see...my kids are amazing. I know a lot of people look at us and say how do you do it. Makayla was a surprise but Evan was the curve ball. But I would not have changed when we had them or who they are for anyone or anything. Sure, I struggle daily with their issues, but I also thank the Lord for them. Who would I be without any of them...pretty pathetic and selfish. I believe God has a plan for each of them and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of their existence. And I am excited for this new baby. Even though he or she is making me sick like no other, I thank God for this fifth chance at being a good mom. And truly learning to be a selfless person. And when you think about who was the most selfless person on earth you think of Christ. So they are truly making me more Christlike!
5. The Hubby- Umm...James is incredible. He supports me in everything. The kids,my hobbies, my dreams, and my trials. He always puts himself second and third! He works so hard for us and the kids. I know I joke that James thinks I am crazy for having all these babies, but we both know that we made the choice Heavenly Father wanted us to make with Him. He was actually closer to the Spirit then I was when it came to this fifth baby. He knew it was time,he had to convince me along with the Lord, but I am grateful for his humble and spiritual leadership. I love ya!
There are a lot more things, but come on I am tired and I want to dry heave so you know. I love you all. Have a Great Thanksgiving!!
