2008 Gratitudes

Here is a picture of my family. Sorry its small and hard to see, but you can at least now see that I have a wonderfully big family. My dad's three kids and their family's are not in the picture.

I'm stealing the gratitudes idea from my sister's blog, Candy and Ladybugs. I've actually stolen a lot from her over the years. I after all do have a ladybug nursery and she loves ladybugs. I don't think she minds. :) Here they are in no particular order

1. I am absolutely grateful that I have a relationship with Jesus Christ. Not only am I absolutely sure of my salvation, that I will spend eternity in Heaven because He died for me, but I know that my eternity started the moment I accepted Him into my heart. He has become my best and constant friend.

2. OK there is a little bit of an order because next is my awesome husband, Dan. I am just crazy about him. I know we were made for each other. Lately he wakes me every week day morning with lots of kisses all over my face and then massages my back. Can't get much better than that.

3. Sarah has already become such a huge part of our lives. I can't wait to hold her in my arms and stare at her beautiful little face. Getting her things ready has been so much fun. Only two more months to go!

4. My family. I love my growing family. Spending time with them over Christmas was awesome. Being able to pray for them every night with Dan at bedtime has helped me bridge the distance. I treasured my siblings growing up and now things have only gotten better with all the new sisters and brother added in the mix. Plus the nieces and nephew! I could go on forever about them! :)

5. My awesome in-laws. I have such a good time with Dan's parents and his extended family so I am looking forward to my MIL, Sandra coming out for Sarah's birth and having her first Christmas with them next year.

6. My friends have been great. God has blessed me with some amazing long lasting friendships that have blessed me to no end and humbled me as I know that God has used me in their lives as well.

7. My church, how I love you, let me count the ways. I have a great Sunday School, great fellowship, great teachings, great support, great ministries, great friends and a great pastor (who is also a great friend).

8. I have a great home, a good car, good food and a good education. That puts me well above the curve than the greater percentage of people in the world so I certainly will not take it for granted.

9. My health. To many people are sick right now. I pray for so many people on a weekly basis who have cancer and other ailments that I can't help but be humbled that God has chosen to keep me healthy. No, I certainly can't take that for granted.

10. Last but now least, my little boy, I mean cat, Leo. Face, it he's been my first born and I treat him as such. He is one spoiled little guy. In all seriousness though (ok, a cat on a gratitude list, can't take that to seriously) he has been a constant comfort for me following me all over the house, sleeping with me on the couch while I work, and generally just being adorable as adorable cats do.