Smiling.

yes, smiling.

because when i start to think of what i'm thankful for,

i smile.

i smile because i think of my husband and how good his soul is. his determination to make me laugh in my worst of moods,

he is so much more than i ever deserved.

i smile because i think of my daughter who is more and more beautiful everyday, and in so many ways a mini-me in character, and in so many ways constantly teaching me to be better.

i smile because i think of my son, his sweet little smile that melts my heart. his arms that strangle me with hugs all the day long.

i smile because i think of how many dear friends & family i have, and how fortunate my life is, and the amazing opportunities i have had.

i smile because we are healthy, and happy, and swimming in love.

...then i become teary eyed.

and all choked up.

 

because by the time i have thought of the things i am most thankful for,

i become overwhelmed with emotion, overwhelmed with how blessed i am.

overwhelmed with an immense gratitude for all i have, and who i am.

but oh the joy of being able to fully appreciate.

that is what a celebration of thanksgiving is about, to me.

happy thanksgiving!

*****

Happy Birthday...

***

My amazing husband turned thirty two years old. 

His birthday falls right in the middle of Deer Season so normally we celebrate his birthday @ the deer lease or his parent's house but not this year... Adrianna had a basketball game so he & the kids did a morning hunt and then headed back home!

 We wanted to make it special, Adrianna & I cooked him all his favorites for dinner

{t-bone steak, boiled shrimp, baked potatoe and salad}

 We didn't have time to bake a cake so instead he got a

DQ Reese's Peanut Butter Blizzard birthday cake ... I  think one slice contained 720 calories but oh my it was worth it!

He spent the rest of the night playing with his birthday gift... cabelas big game hunter 2012 on the wii.

My husband {hearts} hunting

I love you sweetie!

I hope you had a HAPPY Birthday

xoxoxo