What are you thankful for?

Me? Well I am happy to say, many things.

November 9th my baby turned one. I can not believe this year went by so quickly. He was just a little baby yesterday, wasn't he? As he turned one, with a head full of dark curls, I wondered if the next time I blinked he was going to be all grown up. I truly hope not. As crazy as life gets I am trying to take all of this in. Each day seems to be a new milestone for both of my kids. I watch them learn something new each day and become much more independent than I am ready for. Every time I think I could not love them more or be more proud to be their mama they do something and "poof", I am. Motherhood has been such a blessing. Some days I have to remind myself of that, but I am so proud, happy and honored to be their mom.

Two weeks later we celebrated my Grandma's 90th birthday. I was overwhelmed with pride watching all of her friends and family gather to celebrate with her. She has always meant the world to me, but watching how she has impacted so many other, it took my breath away. She is an extraordinary woman. I pray that when I am 90 I have touched so many people the way she has. The best part was watching her as her friends sang the birthday song to her in Polish. It gave me a glimpse of the person she was when she was young, where she came from, and where she has arrived at. Also having her three great-grandchildren there to celebrate was wonderful. They all love her so much and I hope they always have the same great memories that I have with her.

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I think partly because it makes you stop and be happy for what you have and the fact I LOVE the turkey dinner! As I have gotten older it has also made me appreciate the wonderful family I have. We have a small family and I cherish them all so much. This year, as always, I thought of my dad. Missing him and remembering past holidays with him. But I also had so much to be happy for- My Uncle who survived major heart surgery this year, My 90 year old Grandma, my husband & children who light my life, and my mom- who still takes care of me! I don't know how I would survive without her.