Grateful for My Blessings

Wow! Seems like it has been too long since I last posted. I have gotten a bit sidetracked with Face Book as it kinda came on the scene simultaneously with my blog...well in my world it did at least! I apologize for neglecting you, dear blog.

As Thanksgiving quickly approaches, I find the need to stop and reflect on the good things in my life. Sure, I could throw one heck of a pity party if I really, really wanted to- but the point is, I don't. Instead, I choose to focus on all of the riches I DO have. When I take the time to actually stop and reflect...I realize I am rich. Rich in all the ways that really matter.

First, waking up this morning. God willing, I'll wake up again tomorrow...and the next day... and - heck - I'm just thankful that I'm alive and in good health.
Then I'd have to say my faith. That keeps me centered and positive. I think of it as my "long term" retirement program!
I am blessed to have Stan as my husband. He may challenge my patience and annoy me from time to time...but I couldn't imagine doing life without him beside me. In 11 years we have seen some pretty amazing things together and weathered a few storms...but the key is that we have done it together. He still makes my heart skip beats...particularly when he is smiling at me.
My boys. My sweet Anthony, Cameron and Dominic. They have deepened the meaning of my life and given it a purpose that no other persons could. We are forever linked to one another. I watch them when they are playing, sleeping, sitting quietly and even arguing...and I am amazed at the notion of their existence. They are a part of me...one of the better parts. I couldn't even begin to imagine a life without them, let alone a life never having known and loved them. I want to be a better person each day...and that is because of them. I ponder where our lives will take us, what they will ultimately think of the job I did as their mother and often about the lives they will create and choose for themselves. I always want to be close to my boys- in location and thought. It is the most important and toughest job that I will ever love.
My family. My Mom, Dad, Monica and Matthew and the people that come with them! Vivian, Dan and soon-to-be-sister-in-law, Julie. These are the people that helped shape the person that is at my core. I have a greater sense of what my mother did for me now that I am a mother...and for that I owe her a tremendous debt. My Nana, Grandma and Grandpa Darin...I am blessed that they are still a living part of my life and my children's lives. My Nana is one of my best friends.
My extended family. My aunts, uncles, and cousins...an active part of us...every day. They do things for us that go above and beyond our wildest dreams. Special thanks to Jan, Paul, Deb, David, Maryann, John, Cindy and Ellen.
My friends. Blessed to have all of you. The ones that I have had the longest and new ones...you've left footprints in my life, so thanks!
My coworkers / friends. I love my job. I really do...no lie! What is better than loving your job? Loving the people you work with!
These are the things that will matter when the sun sets on my final day...not what was or wasn't in my bank account, 401-k, parked on the driveway, adorning my ears, fingers, neck, or wrists. You get the idea... But rather that I made a mark, a difference, a ripple...
Happy Thanksgiving.