Thanksgiving 2012

It's that time of year again...already!  So, in case you were wondering, here is what I'm thankful for this year:

1. I'm thankful I have so much to be thankful for.
2. That in a world of "me, me, me" I've had the opportunity to form a relationship with someone who was more focused on the well being of her child than herself.  Our birth mother, Lindsay, has given us an amazing gift.  We can never thank her enough.
3. For our home...it wasn't so long ago that we were living in a hotel. 
4. For our jobs.  Many, many people are without work.  We are blessed to have jobs we love and provide for our family.
5. For the vehicles that get us to and from work.
6. For our church and church family.
7. For our fur babies, who probably feel pretty neglected right now.  But they are still loved and still a huge part of our family!  Plus, Mitchell will need playmates soon.
8. For our family that continues to support us every step of the way through our adoption process.
9. For our amazing friends who do the same as those in #8.
10. For all of my Mommy friends/family who are real enough with me to let me know that there is no such thing as Supermom.  Who don't make me feel like a failure because I can't do 17 things at once.  I think you are all awesome moms and your children are lucky to have you! 
11. For KK (a.k.a. Karen).  It is much easier to leave your child for the day when you know they are in good hands. 
12. That Mitchell has two full sets of grandparents.  And four living great-grandparents.
13. That both sets of grandparents are other examples to MJ of how marriage should work.  That it is meant to be a life long commitment.
14. For the adoption agency who has been great support over the last two years, helping us get to this point.
15. For a recent diagnosis that has forced me to take better care of myself.
16. For pictures, that let us capture a moment in time.
17. For our pediatrician, who is great with Mitchell and us and is willing to do the extra paperwork necessary because MJ is being adopted.
18. That I was patient enough to wait out God's plan.
19. For all the men and woman who risk(ed) their life or lost their life defending our freedom.
20. For Gus.  He is an incredible husband and father.  He has been by my side through the worst of the worst and the best of the best.  I wouldn't want anyone else there with me.
21. For Mitchell Jonathan!!!!!
22. That MJ is a happy and healthy baby.
23. That I'm finally a mommy.
24. That I was able to rock my baby boy to sleep last night.
25. That I still get to hear, "your son looks a lot like you!"
26. That Mitchell likes to cuddle. And he gives really good hugs.
27. That Mitchell has the opportunity to know his birth mother.
28. That holidays are anticipated with excitement again.
29. That I know what overwhelming heartache is and that I've experienced true joy as well.
30. That God answers prayers!