Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Thankful

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We were able to spend time with Chad's family for a few weekends before Thanksgiving. Amber was in town, so it was fun seeing her and the boys.
We spent Thanksgiving with my family at my Grandma's in Mud Lake. It was so fun to see everyone and catch up. My sisters, my mom, and I were out shopping on Black Friday, when my dad called to tell us he got some amazing tickets to the BSU game on Friday for the WAC championship. We jumped in the car so Hailey, Kevin, my Dad, and Chad could make it to Boise in time. They had a blast.
Needless to say, we have a had a fun-filled few weeks and no pictures to show it! We got a new camera that I love, and we have forgotten it everywhere we went.
The last few days I have been really reflecting on the blessing in my life and what I am thankful for. Things happen in our lives, and those of others, that make us stop and think about what really is important to us.
Some of my greatest blessings are:
1. Paxton....
I love being a mom to this sweet, happy, kissable little boy. He has such an amazing little personality, and is so much fun. He is starting to talk more, runs around, gives kisses and loves all the time, and loves me! Being a mother is truly the most incredible thing!
2. Chad....
he is such a good, patient husband. He loves me even when I am crazy! I am thankful he is going to school and getting his education, so in 3 1/2 years he can support our family and I can have my DREAM job... a stay-at-home mom.
3. My parents....
they taught me the Gospel, lived the Gospel, and have been the best examples to me. They encouraged me to follow my dreams, taught me to work hard and never give up, and loved me through it all. I am so thankful for everything they have done for me. I know they sacrificed a lot so that I could have the life that I have.
4. My siblings....
Ashley, Kirby, Hailey: I love you all. They have been my playmates, my friends, my confidants. They are such good examples to me in their own special ways.
5. My in-laws...
for instantly making me feel like part of the family. I'm thankful for them raising such a good, priesthood holding, temple worthy son. For the new sisters I instantly inherited (which is pretty intimidating, entering a family with ALL sisters). They have all been so kind to me and have become such good friends to me. I love their husbands and sweet boys, and soon...girls:)
6. My job....
even though I hate leaving Paxton, we are so blessed to have a job right now with this economy. I am thankful for an education and a job that allows me to have the freedom to work when I want and as much or as little as needed.
7. My home....
it may just be an apartment right now, but it's where we get to spend time together and create hundreds of priceless memories.
8. The Gospel....
where would I be without it? It gives me the strength to endure my trials, comfort to know my Heavenly Father loves me and is watching over my family, and compassion/charity for those around me.
9. To live in this great country....
I may not agree with everything that is taking place, but I know we live in such a wonderful place. I am thankful for all of the serviceman and women who sacrifice so much for our freedom.
10. My extended family and friends....
I am so blessed to have so many. Even though they are scattered all over , and some in different countries, I am thankful for their love and examples. My grandparents are wonderful people. Everyone has taught me so much, even when they don't know they are. I have been blessed to have found 2 friends in my ward, who I wish I had more time to hang out with. These girls have been so kind to me. Marta and Hilary, thank you for welcoming me into the ward and being my friends.
Hilary, you have taught me so much through your example of strength and endurance during this hard time. Your testimony of the Plan of Salvation and eternal families has touched my heart, and in turn strengthened my own testimony.

I have been blessed with countless blessings and am so thankful for each and every one of them.

2 comments:

Hil said...

What a sweet post Rachel, you are right about how there is so much to be grateful for. I'm so glad to have gotten to know you. You are such a sweet friend and have helped me so much through this hard time. Thank you for your love, support and example.

Paul and Carly said...

Cute family pics Rach! Paul and I were sad that you didn't go home to Jerome over Thanksgiving. Sometime after the holidays we should come up and see you guys. I will see when we have some days off. We love you guys and I am so thankful for you guys as friends!