Thanksgiving

I can't believe it's already that time of the year again... the holidays are upon us and the stress has started to pile on. While my stresses this year are numerous, I want to sit down and reflect on the things I am most thankful for.

so here they are, My top ten things i am most Thankful for, in no particular order of importance.:

1. My son, Thomas Michael. He is the sunshine of my life & the best thing i have done. He drives me crazy on a daily basis, but reminds me to sit back & enjoy the simpler things in life. He teaches me so many amazing things & astounds me daily with his eagerness to learn & the speed at which he picks them up. I can't imagine my life without him & am so glad and thankful for my sweet little boy

2. My mother, Shawna. She gave me life and taught me so much about life and how to be a good person. I hope that one day to make her proud and to be as an amazing mother to my son as she has been to me.

3. My dads, Dean and Jeff. One gave me life, one helped to raise me when he didn't have to. both equally important to me, neither one of them more so than the other. My father, Dean showed me strength and provided the inspiration for my joining the armed forces. My dad, Jeff, showed us unconditional love in taking my sisters and I in and loving us when he didn't have to. I love both those men and am a better woman for the things they taught me.

4. My sisters, Audrey, Jerry, Bailey & Jamie. What can I say, i love you all & am grateful for the laughter and tears we have shared together. you have all shown me in your own ways, love and acceptance. a sister is a built in best-friend who will tell you when you are messing up with your life & stay up til all hours of the night, telling you that everything will be okay, when it feels like the world is against you

5. My boyfriend & best friend, Mike. Baby, you have supported me and loved me regardless of how overly-emotional i get or out of control I am. You are my rock & shoulder to cry on when i need it. Even though we have had our disagreements, i am so grateful that you chose me to share your life with.

6. My puppy dogs, Buddy and Lady. i love you both!

7. My job. let's face it, in this economy, i am so fortunate to have a job & i am freaking awesome at it

8. Being an American. and the men and women of the US Armed Forces who defend this amazing country

9. My entire family and all my friends,

And what i am most thankful for:

10. The grace of God. Without it, i would not have any of the other items on my list

--- Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving & a joyous holiday season