Picture update

Kristyn has really become mommy's little helper. Sometimes a better helper than other times.

I'm feeling much better about my looks recently. I feel like I actually look skinny. Another few pounds to make that so, but as long as I feel good, what does it matter.

It was murder getting Anthony to take this picture. Terrible two's were nothing to what I have now!

Benjamin is my doll. He's so sweet and loves to give slobbery kisses. Who needs a dog when you have a baby!?

To all who give thanks,

I've had my students this last month write daily in their journals what they are thankful for. I've cried as I've read these things. Simplicity is the most amazing gift that God has given me. The simplest things make me happy. However, no matter how simple something is, their is always a way to take it for granted. I'm very privledged to be able to have what I have, and live the way I live, and SHAME on me for being unhappy with what I do have. The most important things I have are my family. I am so very thankful for them. I am thankful for the laughter we share, for the hugs, and slobbery/snotty kisses I get each night. I'm thankful for the blessing of a roof, albeit an apartment roof, over my head. I am thankful for the blessing of 3 meals a day, and snacks if I want them. I'm thankful for having enough clothes that I don't have to do laundry every week if I didn't want to. I'm greatful for parents who love me, who are still married, and who are still alive to talk to me when I need them. May you all be as blessed as I, this holiday season. I love you all.
Mary

Give Thanks

We've yet again lost a house to someone who offered more than we were willing to pay. I'm frustrated beyond belief and overly exhausted all the time. Last week I broke down on an answering machine to my mother. I now sit wondering at all the stress and think about what I'm grateful for. I'm grateful for the smiles I get to see each day, from my own children as well as my students. I'm grateful for the hugs and kisses I get every night from my children, even though it takes forever to get them to bed. I'm grateful for laughter. Giggles, at the right time, can make even the most frustrated person smile. I'm grateful for a husband who recognizes my stress and does little things to help. It's amazing what a coke can do! I'm grateful to have a job that will support us in this time of economic turmoil. I'm grateful to have family that accepts me as I am and doesn't ask more of me than I'm willing to give. This month my children and I are writing in a thankful journal each night. My children today were thankful for:
Trick or treating-"Now I have enough candy to last me a week!" (Kristyn)
A swimming pool - "I won't die now" (Anthony-believes that now he has a pool he can learn how not to drown)
For their cousins-"no offense mom, but you and dad are kind of boring" (kristyn!)
I love my little muffins! They make me laugh. (mom) "What muffins, I want muffins!" (Anthony)