Christmas shopping is in full swing. We have managed to mark over half of the items off of our gift list. When trying to decide what to buy our kids this year, we realized that the reason it is so hard to come up with something is that they have so much already. We are so blessed in our lives in so many ways and one of those is that we have enough to be able to provide our children with many of life's unnecessary pleasures. They even have grandparents and great-grandparents who share in spoiling them with toys and clothes.
It always hits me this time of year how lucky we really are, and while we try not to take it for granted, it still happens sometimes. When you're out doing your shopping this year, take a moment to think of all those who are struggling with how they will feed or clothe their children instead of what to get them for Christmas.
As we are about to dive head first into the holiday season this week, I am reminded how some people--myself included--can get so caught up in all of the preparations that they don't really enjoy the time with their families. I intend to do my best to keep the proper perspective this year so I don't miss out on any of the good times with my husband and kids. I hope you will do the same.
Happy Thanksgiving!
As I forced myself to roll out of bed this morning to get ready for work, I was contemplating whether or not I could sleep a little longer and go in late or even stay home all together. Despite the draw of my warm bed, I persevered and was out the door more or less on time. I think we all have days where we would rather just not be at work--some weeks it seems like there are only those days--but when I consider the alternative of not having a job to go to, it makes my complaints seem trivial.
Today I am thankful for my ongoing employment--even though I do work with family...
I really can understand the saying "Laughter is the best medicine." I haven't been ill or anything, but spending a nice, relaxing weekend with the husband and the kids provided many opportunities to laugh. I can't recall any specific jokes or things that were said, I just know that we laughed often. I don't mean a chuckle, I mean a belly laugh that leaves you out of breath. You can't help but feel good after you have a couple of those.
Thank goodness for a sense of humor!
This past weekend was great. The weather was lovely, and my parents decided to have the kids over for a visit. They hadn't been to stay with Grandma and Pappy for the weekend in awhile, so they were happy to go. That left me and the hubby on our own with no big plans. I think those types of weekends can be the most enjoyable.
I am fortunate to have such a wonderful husband. We have many of the same interests and almost always take pleasure in each other's company. We didn't do anything exciting during our weekend alone, but I love spending time with him just like I did when we first started dating. I am thankful for those weekends when we have time to reconnect, and I look forward to the next one.
As I got out of bed this morning I "felt" the muscles in my legs. I slowly walked to the bathroom to get into the shower, groaning with each step. Needless to say, my new, much needed exercise program has left me a little sore. I've been complaining here and there for most of the day, dreading going back to another class tonight.
Then I realized that instead of whining I should be thankful that my muscles and joints work the way they should--when I decide to use them anyway. Here's hoping they can get me through another hour tonight without cramping up...
After the second rainiest October on record for Springfield, I want to take a minute today to say how thankful I am for the beautiful, sunny days that are filling this week. Sunshine in the forecast through the weekend certainly makes for a much more upbeat attitude! It even makes leaf raking and tree-trimming seem like happy chores.
Enjoy the beautiful autumn weather!
