What I'm Thankful For

When I sat down to write this post, my intention was to share a brief list of several things I'm very thankful for; family, husband, friends, etc. Just a brief mention, or shout out, and then be finished. But then I picked up a little book I received as a wedding present from my sister. Quite possibly one of the best gifts one could get on their wedding day. It's a collaboration of advice from some married couples Brit and I hold so close to our hearts. This got me thinking about thanking the ones I love, but in a more deserving way.

I am thankful for my father. His ability to speak to any "stranger", and no matter what and find something in common, has encouraged me to always do the same. I am thankful for his integrity and sense of humor, and I hope I encompass even one ounce of those traits.

I am thankful for my mother. Her silliness and whimsicality can always make me laugh and no matter how long we talk, it never seems like we've said enough. 

I am thankful that she and my dad were able to successfully raise four {yes f-o-u-r} children. Raising a child is a miracle in and of itself, so thank you Mom and Dad, and you were right, about everything. 

I am thankful for my sister. I have always looked up to her {although she's about 2 inches shorter :)} She gives me the levelheadedness I need when my emotions are getting in the way, and although I know she always has my back, she's not afraid to tell me when I'm wrong. I need that. And it's always better to hear it from someone you love.

I am thankful for my little-big brother. His artistic skills and mind absolutely amaze me. He constantly reminds me {whether he's with me in person or not}, to look at things differently and appreciate the beauty in everything. His faith and ability to love inspire me. 

I am thankful for my little-little brother. His drive and independence encourage me to always keep pushing myself, because no matter how far I go, I can always go farther {like all the way on the opposite side of the country!}. He has grown from a pipsqueak to a man, and I couldn't be more proud of him. 

I am thankful for my brother-in-law. His infectious laugh and hilarious wit brings a smile to my face just thinking about it. I can't imagine our family without him and the happiness he brings to everyone. 

I am thankful for my husband. He loves me when I'm crazy, emotional, angry, hurt, excited, heartbroken, and that's just during a Brown's game. Seriously though, I am so thankful for his ability to always make me laugh and remind me that things don't have to be so serious.

I am thankful for my new family {my in-laws}. I may have only legally been a family member for 6 months, but they have welcomed me into their lives so lovingly. I am grateful for, first and foremost, their second son ;) but also for their kindness. They have made me feel like a member of their family, not an extension. 

I am thankful to my friends and other family members who are not specifically mentioned here. I am grateful that there are too many of you to pay a special tribute to on this "short" post. I feel lucky that you are all a part of my life and affect it in your own personal ways. 

I am thankful for you. Yes, you. I know it may seem silly, especially if I have never met you, but it's absolutely true. Every time someone comments, "likes", shares, etc., it truly and honestly makes my day and means the world to me. Sometimes I get a little discouraged and feel like I should throw in the towel on this here blog and just watch Bravo marathons {ha! like this blog prevents me from watching Bravo marathons}. But then I look at a message saying someone was motivated, or a suggestion someone shared offering a new perspective, and I realize I could never, ever get that kind of joy and satisfaction from any "Real Housewife". Thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading my babbles each week and thank you for all of your support.

I hope you all had a wonderful and filling Thanksgiving holiday. 

Thanks for visiting!