Thankful

It's November. The month where we count our blessings and remind ourselves that we have so much more than we even realized. And while I am grateful for things like a warm home, a running vehicle and hot chocolate, I have come to realize that people and relationships are what matter most of all. The hard times I've been through this year have led me to make an inventory of the relationships in my life. Some of them, like evergreens, stay true no matter the season. You can count on them to always be there.

People are what help you through the difficult times and make the good times even better. So right now I am thankful for the friends and family who have said, "let me know if there is anything you need" but I truly appreciate the ones who actually figured it out themselves and did it whether it was a phone call, a prayer, a dinner, or a hug. It really, truly makes a difference and that type of genuine kindness and compassion will make an impact on this grateful heart forever.

I'm thankful for a husband who is, quite frankly, amazing. He has more faith, love, strength and kindness than any other person I've ever known. I am thankful he has been by my side during my darkest and weakest moments.

I'm thankful for my children. I came home from the hospital yesterday after losing our second baby this year to the beautiful faces of my children who greeted me with such love and compassion and concern that it filled my heart with those sweet swellings of tender mother-love. Jimmy spoke to the family last night about our latest loss and explained that even though we prayed for a miracle and asked that our baby be allowed to come, the Lord had other plans we don't know about. Roman gently stroked my arm as he sat curled up beside me. His sweet little face looked up at mine and he softly said, "At least you still have us, mama." So true, my son. And I'm so thankful.

Yes, it's been a tough year. One that, frankly, I'll be glad to see go next month and hope that another like it will not come again. But even if it does--and chances are more challenges will arise--I hope I can hold on to all that I have instead of looking back at what I lost.