30 Days of Thanks #30

Whew! I made it to gratitude post #30... and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't grateful about that! However, this process has been an interesting experience. Here are a few things that I've learned about gratitude:

#1) Gratitude is like prayer. Sometimes you don't feel like praying, but you do it anyway--and by the time you're done, you feel prayerful. Making my gratitude list worked the same way. There were many, many nights when I wasn't feeling very grateful... or just not in the mood to be creative... but by the time I was done writing about my blessings, my Spirit was lifted--every time.

#2) Heavenly Father has commanded us to be grateful because He loves us. I have a fervent testimony that each of the commandments are for our safety, our protection, and happiness. At first, the commandments may seem restrictive, but when lived, you realize that they are evidence of God's love for you. Gratitude is the same. Gratitude blesses our lives with contentment and joy...

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." ~ Melody Beattie

#3) Gratitude makes us more aware of God's love. When I started this project, I began to feel that I was being blessed for it... but then I realized that the blessings had always been there. I was just more aware of them.

#4) "Pondering" allows the Spirit to communicate. Every day of this past month, I was mindful all day long about gratitude. Because of this, I feel like the Spirit helped ideas to come and the writing to flow.

#5) Expressing gratitude is important. I think most of us FEEL love and gratitude for others all the time, but don't always express it. President Monson describes this as wrapping and present, but not giving it. I'm thankful that this project encouraged me to publicly write my gratitude for my parents, in-laws, siblings, children, spouse, friends, and teachers. It was often hard to put such big feelings into words... but it felt good to do it.

Tonight, for my very last post...

I am grateful for this lesson in Gratitude!

30 Days of Thanks #29

I have a picture of Justin and I standing in front of the temple on our wedding day in my room. It's been there since we moved in this house, but Carson noticed it for the first time the other day. He gasped and said, "Mom! That's the temple! I love the temple. I want to go there someday!" That made me giggle... but also filled my heart with all the happiness it could hold. There's nothing I want more in my life than for each of my children to be sealed in the temple. Eternity will only be wonderful if I can be with the ones I love most.

I am thankful for the sealing power of temple covenants.

At the last General Relief Society Meeting, Silvia Allred, first counselor in the presidency, told a story that I couldn't stop thinking about throughout the entire meeting. She told of a family from Mistolar Paraguay who wanted to be sealed in the temple, but the closest temple was 27 hours away in Buenos Aires. In the middle of very cold winter, they made the trip with their two small children. With much sacrifice, they made it there and were sealed for time and all eternity. On the way home, however, both children got sick and died. They buried them along the way and returned home with nothing. Though they were heartbroken, they said of their experience, "Our children were sealed to us in the house of the Lord. We know we will have them back with us for all eternity. This knowledge has given us peace and comfort. We have to remain worthy and faithful to the covenants we made in the temple, and then we will be reunited with them." Amazing faith. It's these experiences that remind us what life is truly about: living to return to our Heavenly Father. Nothing else matters.

This story also reminded me of how blessed I am to have always lived close to a temple. The peace that the temple brings is just minutes away... and yet I'm guilty of not taking advantage of these blessing as much as I should. I'm committing today to do better.

"Let us truly be a temple-attending and temple-loving people... Let us make the temple, with temple worship and temple covenants and temple marriage, our ultimate earthly goal and the supreme mortal experience." - Howard W. Hunter

30 Days of Thanks #28

I'm thankful for Justin (Part 2)

Yes, I know that I already did a gratitude post for this awesome guy--but one write-up just does not do him justice! To truly appreciate today's events, you need to understand a few things about Justin:

#1) Justin's favorite creation on Earth is snow.

#2) Justin's favorite activity on Earth is snowmobiling.

#3) Justin has not been snowmobiling yet this season, and all of this snow is making him Crazy-Anxious!

Today, Justin's buddies called and invited him to do his favorite activity in his favorite creation. Without any heckling from me, he said "No." He told me that he hadn't spent enough time with the kids this week... So, he played in the snow all day... with our kids! I've always appreciated this quality in Justin. Like most men, he loves his hobbies, but he never allows them to come before his family. He's always sensitive to my needs and our children's needs, and he puts them before his own. I'm a pretty lucky girl.

After a few hours of sledding, we took the kids ice skating... which is such a labor of love! It's a tough activity on the body when you have to skate bent forward holding a child for two hours straight... and poor Justin did it all on his own tonight as I chased Ashton around the rink. Here's a few photos of one amazing, fun, and TIRED Dad:

30 Days of Thanks #27

I am thankful for my parents' sacrifices.

The older I get, the more I recognize all that my parents have sacrificed for me. Kyler broke his arm earlier this year and his few x-rays and casts were quite a financial burden. Few people know this about me, but my childhood was filled with x-rays and casts. At five years old, my spine was shaped like the letter 'S', and I was diagnosed with severe scoliosis. In Kindergarten, I began wearing a body brace 24 hours a day. My mom had to have clothes altered to fit over my brace. She also came to my school everyday at lunchtime to loosen my brace after I ate. My treatment continued for ten years. Doctor appointments in Salt Lake, new x-rays, and different shaped casts... continually for ten years. I can't imagine the expense that was for my parents, yet they never made me feel that my treatment was a burden in any way. In fact, my SLC doctor appointments became an exciting event because we got to go to Hires for the "world's best hamburgers and shakes" after each appointment! I am very sad to admit that I never really thought about the financial aspect of my brace years until I experienced my own child's broken arm. I'm sure as my kids become teenagers, leave for college, marry, and have kids of their own, I will come to understand even more of parents' patience, love, and sacrifice.

My health needs were one of many, many sacrifices my parents have made for me throughout my life, and for each and every one, I thank them.

30 Days of Thanks #26

I am thankful for answered prayers.

Before we left for Inkom yesterday morning, we parked in the driveway to pray. Sweet McKenna prayed for a "really, really, really safe drive" and a "really, really, really great day!"

About five miles out of Idaho Falls, a Jeep Cherokee sped up behind us--practically on our bumper. He was obviously annoyed at our slow pace. The Jeep darted to the right to pass us and immediately started fishtailing. It was one of the incidents that happens so fast--yet in slow motion at the same time. It's a miracle the Jeep didn't hit us as the driver frantically turned his steering wheel right and left--trying to get control. At 70 miles per hour, the Jeep slid sideways off the road into a ditch where it bounced up out into a field and continued to roll five or six times. All we could see was snow and metal flying everywhere. With semi's in front and in back of us on solid ice roads, we were unable to safely stop and turn around. We called 911 and hoped and prayed that the family in that Jeep survived.

It was so upsetting. I thought of that family during Thanksgiving dinner, as I laid down to bed last night, and as I woke up this morning--wondering what happened.

Justin left at 5 am this morning to try to get a few Christmas deals. Again, I prayed for his safety after he said "Goodbye." When he returned (without the deals), he told me that he came within inches of hitting a deer going down the hill and then AGAIN on the way up!

This morning I'm busy. One child wet the bed. Another managed to unscrew his bottle and sleep drenched in milk. Another child is screaming because they have something in their eye. Another child is refusing to help with chores today... but I'm perfectly happy. I have that content feeling that everything is as it should be. My heart is overflowing with gratitude for a loving Heavenly Father who watches over us and hears our prayers.

30 Days of Thanks #25

As I prepare to make the treacherous drive in dangerously cold temperatures to celebrate Thanksgiving with loved ones, I am thankful for many things:

Snow plows, heated car seats, prayer... lots of prayer, Pillsbury pre-made pie crusts, traditional family recipes, and most of all--the wonderful blessing of living close enough to family to celebrate special days!

I'll close this Thanksgiving post with a famous Luke family quote. It's just not Thanksgiving to me without it...

"This bird will never fly again." - Arlo Luke

Happy Thanksgiving!

30 Days of Thanks #24

Mrs. Couch, Mrs. Covert, Dr. Bond, Marta Johns.

I am thankful for great teachers.

These were not the easy teachers. Not even close. They were strict and demanded respect and hard work. Isn't it funny that those are the teachers we come to love and admire the most? Each of these teachers shared a common characteristic that set them apart from other "hard" teachers: They believed in me. Knowing this encouraged me to pour my heart into my work.

Their influence continues into my life today...

* Mrs. Couch (2nd grade) - I still think of her math sayings when I help my own children with math. ("5 x 0 = Zero, My Hero!") Mrs. Couch made me feel loved and smart.

* Mrs. Covert (12th grade English) - A single comment she made on one of my writing papers encouraged me to chose Journalism as my Major in college. I'm sure she'll never know the impact of that little note.

* Dr. Bond (College-Music History) - Dr. Bond's passion and intelligence was so inspiring. I loved every second of her class. I remember writing frantically in her class--trying to record everything she said. I just taught my own piano students about one of the symphonies I learned about in her class.

* Marta Johns (Voice teacher) - After having a few kids, I didn't sing very much, and I soon lost pretty much all confidence in that area. I assumed my singing days were over. In an effort to get out of the house once a week, I began studying voice with her. I learned more in one year from her than I did in four years of college as a Vocal Performance Minor. She became a dear friend... and got me singing again.

Marta & I

30 Days of Thanks #23

"For all His creations of which I'm apart,

Yes, I know Heavenly Father loves me!"

I am thankful for God's creations.

One of the greatest things about being a parent, is experiencing life through your child's eyes. Ashton is constantly pointing out everyday objects and exclaiming: "Ooooh!" "Aaaah!" Every bird, every snowflake, every bug... brings him so much joy and amazement! Children teach us so much about true gratitude. Though he's only 18 months old, I'm thankful for Ashton's great example. When I saw this short video, it made me think of Ashton who is seeing everything for the first time.

30 Days of Thanks #22

"And since we've no place to go,

Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!"

La Nina is here with a vengeance! I laid awake for most of the night listening to the wind thrash and pound against the house. One thought occupied my sleepless brain all night...

I am so thankful for my warm and cozy home!

Here's proof that I ventured out in my pj's and boots at 7:30 am to get you a cool photo of the blizzard...

What I do for this blog!

30 Days of Thanks #21

Many people have incredible stories about the "moment" that the Spirit testified to them that the Church was true. My testimony story is not very exciting. In fact, there was no "moment" at all. The truth is, I can't remember a time in my life when I didn't know the Church was true. It feels like my testimony has always... just been there. Today, I give thanks to the place where my testimony must have begun...

I am thankful for Primary.

As a child, I remember feeling the warmth of the Spirit as I sang "I Love to See the Temple" and "Families Can Be Together Forever." I still hum the Article of Faith songs whenever I'm asked to recite one. I remember my favorite teacher, Brother Boyce, teaching me principles of the Gospel. As an eight year old, I remember sitting in Primary the Sunday after President Kimball died and feeling so sad as we discussed that event.

How many people have served in my behalf? And yet, the chain of service continues, as my own children are loved and taught by faithful ward members each Sunday.

Today, I am especially grateful to the blessed Nursery leaders who welcomed little Ashton to class today! I've been counting down the weeks to this Sunday for a long time now. I was so looking forward to enjoying Relief Society today... but wouldn't you know it? Relief Society will have to wait. I was called to serve in...

PRIMARY!

And I couldn't be more thankful about it!

30 Days of Thanks #20

I am thankful for "Carson-isms!"

Carson-isms: noun. [kar-sun-isms] 1. Hilarious statements made by a talkative, wiggly, bright-eyed 4-year-old boy named Carson. 2. Bits of sunshine.

Here are a few of my favorites:

* "When I die, I’ll still remember how to play Super Mario Brothers. I’m seriously.”

* "I only like animals that can kill people.”

* While eating dinosaur chicken nuggets for lunch, Carson asks, “Mom, are dinosaurs weal?” I say, “Yes, but they are all dead now.” Carson says, “Did Jesus eat one, and not like it, and get mad?”

* While sitting in Sacrament meeting, Uncle James began showing Carson pictures from the Sunday school manual. James points to a picture of Jesus descending from the heavens, and asks Carson, “Who is that?” Carson says, “A fairy.” (Must have thought that his flowing robe looked like wings!) James says, “No that’s Jesus!” Carson says, “Oh... well that’s Jesus when he was a fairy.”

* Coming out of a restaurant tonight, we saw a woman smoking just outside the door. Carson stopped and stood right in front of her, just staring in amazement. As we pulled him away , he exclaimed, “She’s got one of those things (a cigarette), and she put fire on it, and then put it in her mouth… and she didn’t even die!”

When I get caught up in my loud, chaotic "mom life," it is the "Carson-isms" that stop me in my tracks and remind me to stop taking life so seriously. They say that laughter is the best medicine... and this boy gives me an overdose daily! For that, I am so grateful!

30 Days of Thanks #19

Do you know what the best day of your life was?

I do.

The day my name changed to "Mom."

On that Sunday morning over ten years ago, everything in my life changed. The way I viewed things, the things I appreciated, my love for my husband, my love for my parents, my interests, my fears, my dreams... all different because of a tiny, black-haired baby.

The day she was born, so was I.

I am thankful to be a Mother.

McKenna Lyn

Kyler Franklin

Carson Luke

Ashton Cole

These four little faces are my world.

My greatest accomplishment.

My favorite blessing.

My purpose.

30 Days of Thanks #18

I am thankful for good surprises!

Last night, I was looking for pictures of my siblings in a photo box for my previous post. I didn't find the photo I was looking for... but guess what I did find lying in that photo box... A box that I haven't opened in years... A box that I wouldn't have opened if I hadn't been writing these silly gratitude posts.

A crisp 50 dollar bill!

Can you believe it? I just stood there with my mouth gaping open for about two minutes--trying to process the randomness of it all! (Is randomness a word? Probably not. Anyway...) I was so giddy with excitement to find that unexpected surprise! Even though it was midnight and my husband was fast asleep, I had to wake him up to show him my discovery! Sometimes you just have to tell someone! The giddyness (not sure if that's a word either) lasted until I finally crawled into bed whereupon I fell asleep with a smile on my face!

I can now testify that it pays off to be grateful... literally!

30 Days of Thanks #17

If I could spend a day doing anything I wanted...

I wouldn't choose a shopping spree.

I wouldn't choose a spa treatment.

I wouldn't even choose a day spent reading in solitude while wrapped in my pink Snuggie.

I'd choose to sit around a table laughing with the funniest people I know.

I am thankful for best friends...

...And these are mine.

I am the youngest of seven children--all boys except for six.

(Sorry Dad! I couldn't resist!)

We look alike. Sound alike. Move alike. Think alike. Eat alike.

We even do our make-up alike!

I recently spent a few days alone with my sisters, and I was reminded of 'who I am' and how proud I am of that very thing! My family is faithful and close. What more could I ever want?

How very grateful I am for family... and to be linked to my very best friends for eternity.

30 Days of Thanks #16

I can't believe I'm actually going to admit this, but...

I am thankful for Star Wars.

As mentioned in previous posts, I had never even seen the show as a child. We did girl things at my house. But, as a mother of three boys, I have been baptized by fire with all things "BOY!" Kyler and Carson watch this strange show over and over... never tiring of it. I've seen enough of it to know that some pretty deep themes are going on. I'm sure my boys will catch the deeper meaning someday, but in the meantime, it's amazing how much a galaxy far, far away has already taught them. Tonight as I was tucking the boys in, we were talking about what it meant to be adopted. Carson wasn't quite getting it. Ky says, "It's like Luke and Leia." Done. No more further teaching from Mom required.

Here are a few more Star Wars life lessons that my boys have come to know so well:

* Good verses evil. Bad choices lead to suffering.

* It's okay to kiss your sister... if you don't know it's your sister.

* Death is a part of life.

* Your parents will love you no matter what. ("I will always love you son, even if you don't turn to the dark side!"

* Girls can be tough.

* Just because someone talks weird, doesn't mean they're dumb. (Yoda)

* Forgiveness is always possible... even if you've killed over 8 billion people like Anakin.

* There is a hero within us all!

30 Days of Thanks #15

I don't believe there's a person on Earth who doesn't love and respond to music. For me, music is more than something I love. It defines me. It connects me to family. It fills my heart and soul. I cherish music for its ability to teach, lift, comfort, and entertain. But most importantly, music enables me to feel my Heavenly Father's spirit. Nothing seems to bring that sweet feeling faster or clearer. I wish I could say that I've had a personal witness to every element of the Gospel. But I haven't--so I rely on faith. But I can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that the music I sing each Sunday is inspired of God.

I am thankful for Hymns.

I was taught as a child to sing a hymn in my mind whenever I felt afraid. Years later, I still seek hymns for comfort. I'll never forget how sad and shaken I felt after the events of 9/11. All churches throughout the country were asked to have a prayer service in honor of the victims. As I entered my church, I could hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing prelude over the satellite. I can't remember which hymn it was, but it was familiar--one I had grown up singing. At once, my troubled heart was flooded with peace.

At a recent Luke family reunion, I was reminded of my gratitude of hymns. My family gathered together and took turns talking about their favorite hymn. We then sang them as a group. I was amazed at how enthusiastic the grandkids were to describe their personal favorites. I had no idea that McKenna's favorite hymn was "Be Still My Soul." She told the group that it made her feel closer to Jesus each time she heard it. The spirit was powerful... as it often is through music. I had a hard time singing, so I just stood in the back with my two month old baby, wiping tears and basking in the incredible feeling. I didn't take a turn that day... and I regretted it. So, I'm taking my turn now:

My favorite hymn is #221, Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd. It references the parable of the lost sheep--teaching us of our Savior's love and compassion. It's a beautiful message. However, the main reason that I love this hymn is because it reminds me of my Dad. When I was in high school, we sang in church together often. He will forever be my favorite duet partner. I felt proud standing next to him--and never nervous. We sang this hymn several times. No arrangement--Just dad's high tenor voice on the alto line while I sang the melody. It was simple and reverent. This hymn will always remind me of how very much I love my dad.

My heart just about leaped out of my chest when the Mormon Tab sang an arrangement of it at the last General Conference. Enjoy....

30 Days of Thanks #14

I am thankful for the Tiny Diner!

"What's that" you ask? Only the second best invention known to mom-kind!! (Runner up to Clorox Wipes, of course!) They are portable placemats! "What's so great about that" you ask? Let me explain.

My admiration of them began long ago when McKenna was just a baby... but I figured that I could get by with napkins. Well, three babies later, I bit the bullet and made the $10 investment. It was, without a doubt, one of my all-time greatest purchases.

You know that awful stage when your toddler insists on feeding themselves, but they're really terrible at it? Oh, you've forgotten? Let me remind you. It looks like this:

You see, this stage is extremely problematic--especially when dining out. Not to mention all those germ infested restaurant tables! Fear no more fellow germa-phobe Moms! The Tiny Diner saves the day!

It looks like this:

Suction cups on the bottom keep it from moving:

When you're finished, wipe it off, and roll it up:

Awesome, right?

Anything that makes an outing with the kids a LITTLE easier, is a BIG thing to be thankful about!

30 Days of Thanks #13

Ashton and I experienced a milestone last night. For the first time since he's been born, we slept in separate rooms. Oh... did I mention that he's 18 months old?

(Explanation: We live in a two story home, and I just couldn't imagine running all the way upstairs three times a night to stick his binki back in all these past months!)

The Result? He did great! And I got the best rest I've had in... well... 18 months! I can't believe how much better I slept without hearing his every whimper, toss, and turn.

Oh sleep! Glorious sleep! It's become a rarity in these child rearing years... which brings me to Gratitude Entry #13:

I am SO THANKFUL when all four of my children sleep through the night!

Bloody noses, potty dances, bad dreams, throw up, lost teeth... It's always something! Even my 10 year old has to trek all the way down the stairs to TELL ME that she has to use the bathroom!

BUT... not last night. Last night, I fell asleep and didn't wake up until morning, and I am truly, truly thankful. (Cue the "Hallelujah Chorus" now!)

30 Days of Thanks #12

I'll never forget something that Oprah Winfrey said during one of her shows about women around the globe. She said:

"If you are a woman living in America, you are one of the luckiest women in the world."

I, too often, forget how privileged and abundantly blessed my life truly is. Too often, I forget that the life that I enjoy each day was made possible by the thousands of men and women who sacrificed theirs. On the night of Veteran's Day, I give thanks to all those who have served this country... some giving a little and some giving all. I also give thanks to those not in uniform... the families of servicemen and women... whose sacrifice is equally as great.

I am forever indebted.

Kyler was so proud to honor his Grandfather, Dennis Stevens, in the Veteran's Day assembly today at his school. I, too, am so proud of my father-in-law's great example of service. His example continues 40 years later as he serves as a Stake President and in all other areas of his life. He is the most generous person I have ever known.

"Lest we forget..."

30 Days of Thanks #11

The kids are finally in bed... and I'm having a really hard time making myself sit in front of this computer tonight because a friend just lent me a fantastic book, and I really just want to curl up and read it! These quiet hours in my house don't last long! I must take advantage of this precious reading time... Which brings me to Gratitude Entry #11!

I am thankful for books.

And not just any books. The books that captivate! The books that keep me up until 1 a.m. The books that make me see life differently. The books that teach me about different kinds of people in different time periods and different lands. The books that provide a quick escape from Ammon, ID and life with four kids.

I am probably a little too thankful for books. I love them so much, that they can become problematic. One year for Valentines Day, Justin took me down to Barnes and Noble and let me pick out a book. Sound strange? Well, it was one of the most meaningful and romantic gifts ever--because Justin was truly making a sacrifice. He knows that when I fall in love with a book, I slack a little in my wife/mom duties.

Speaking of Barnes and Noble... it's hands-down my favorite store. My heart starts beating a little faster every time I walk through the door. I just love strolling down the aisles, gazing at book covers. And you know all those slightly strange looking people who sit in the store all day reading and sipping lattes? I could totally see myself doing that if I was a single, child-less, unemployed woman who did not keep the Word of Wisdom.

My love of books began in my childhood. My mom always read to me and gave me books for Christmas. Still today, my mom and sisters and I love to swap books and discuss what we loved and loathed!

I, too, want to instill a love of reading in my children. Just a few weeks ago, I finished reading "The Secret Garden" with McKenna, and it truly was a sweet experience for us. I could literally see her imagination playing out behind her eyes. Her face would light up at interesting parts, she shed a few tears at touching moments, and she begged for "just one more chapter" almost every single night. Music to my ears! The best part, however, were the teaching moments that flowed so naturally as we discussed the book's themes. Those moments are priceless--and completely worth the achy vocal chords.

30 Days of Thanks #10

Misspelled words.

Stick figure portraits.

The sound of paper crunching beneath my pillow.

The proud, heartfelt expression on my child's sweet face.

I am thankful for my children's homemade gifts.

Justin and I are both sentimental softies, so we have stacks of cards and drawings from across the years that we just can't bring ourselves to throw away. Here are a few of my favorites:

(From McKenna on Mother's Day a few years ago. Who else would call me a "Gentle flower?" Only McKenna!)

(Kyler's description of me in Kindergarten. I'm so thankful he wouldn't trade me for a dog.)

(From McKenna to her Dad on Father's Day.)

(Translation: "Cer" is "Care"!)

(Translation: "I love you Mom because you look pretty and bright with lipstick!")

(At school, McKenna can earn fake money for good behavior and grades. At the end of a quarter, she can use that money to buy a prize. She spent all of her money to buy me this gorilla for my last birthday. She made the heart sign herself.)

(McKenna also made me these dried salt dough... creations.)

(After McKenna ruined one of my decorative throws, she felt really bad. She cut out a photo of my face and taped it to a necklace to say, "Sorry.")

30 Days of Thanks #9

I'm thankful for many things, both large and small... butt, today I'm just thankful that this is not my last name.

30 Days of Thanks #8

"Ode to Justin"

On this day, so long ago

A babe was born in Idaho.

The choirs sang from up above.

A mom now had a son to love.

This boy was not like all the rest.

You see... He was the very best!

A witty mind, a heart of gold.

Dimples, brawn--Looks to behold!

He loved adventure, thrills, and speed.

In Grease, of course, he was the lead.

He made the ladies swoon and sigh.

Conceited? No! Just meek and shy.

What lucky gal would land this Gent?

A perfect angel--Heaven Sent!!

At Ricks the two would finally meet.

Their chemistry would put off heat!

The perfect husband, soon was he.

And then the two turned into three!

Wouldn't you know it? You should've guessed...

Of all the Dads, he was the best!

36 years, he's graced this Earth.

Perfection since the day of birth!

Let's celebrate this awesome Man!

Fireworks, parades... that's the plan!

I guess it's pretty plain to see...

A bigger fan, there'll never be.

His wife is simply drunk with love.

She thanks her lucky stars above.

Her "Thankful List" is so very tall...

But Justin--simply her best blessing of all!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOVE!!

30 Days of Thanks #7

Getting myself ready and on time for 9:00 a.m. church is hard.

What's even harder?

Getting myself and four little kids ready and on time to church.

What's even harder?

Substituting for the Ward Chorister and getting myself

and four little kids ready and EARLY to 9:00 a.m. church.

This morning, as I am

arguing with a 10-year-old who is refusing to wear tights,

pleading with a 7-year-old who (on Sundays only) want to sleep in,

and exasperating over a 4-year-old who can't decide which cereal to eat,

I'm

SO THANKFUL

to realize that today is Daylight Savings.

30 Days of Thanks #6

I am thankful for in-laws.

They say that when you marry someone, you marry their whole family. Boy that's the truth. Look what I inherited for all time and eternity when I said, "Yes":

And that's they best deal I ever made.

I was only 19 when I got married, and I marvel at the fantastic choice I made for being so young and blinded by love. But even as a young, immature college student, I recognized how special the Stevens family was.

They smiled all the time.

They hugged all the time.

They glowed.

But most importantly, it was apparent how much they loved their sons and how much their sons loved their family... and I wanted that for my own future family. The smiling and hugging and glowing... it was all real. It's still real.

The Stevens family is fun, talented, hard working, creative, happy, supportive, and so giving. I'm pretty sure any member of this family would give me a kidney if I needed one. They have taught me so much. It's impossible to not become a better person when you're around their constant goodness. Marrying into this family was the single best decision I have ever made, and I am so proud and THANKFUL to now share this name.

30 Days of Thanks #5

I'm searching my gratitude bank for something deep and inspiring... but tonight, all I can think about are these gorgeous cupcakes sitting on my counter... for which I am truly grateful! I am equally grateful for the one day a year that I can have a truly sublime chocolate experience without feeling guilty about it!

Guilt-free cupcakes, I am thankful for you!