great plus attitude equals gratitude (or something cheesy like that)

Story at almost three weeks in a headband I made for her (#don'tworrybabygirlmommyknewyouwouldbebaldsoshemadeyoulotsofheadbands)

Joel, "The Stache", and his two sisters Beth and Sarah

tl:  my dearest Astair  tr: only half of the thirty something family that were there  

bl:  a few of the cousins  br:  pumpkin centerpiece I just had to photograph

And now we are seven.

I'm overwhelmed with thankfulness.

And God is reminding me that this is what grace-filled living is:  to be thankful at all times.

I remember it like it was yesterday, rocking two infant twins, one tucked in each arm nursing.

I wondered then how I would make it through the long nights and demanding days ahead.  

I remember the weight of their warm bodies filling my arms and flooding my heart, doubly blessed. 

My mind had been wrestling with worry and exhaustion, but at that moment, gratitude won.

And gratitude is the orchard where the fruits of the Spirit are grown.  

"Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are all cultivated in the thankful soul,"  I felt that soul deep God voice whisper, "And this is how you will make it through-- by giving thanks continually."

My heart has been reminded and I will continually count my blessings...

1.  The smell of newborn skin

2.  A little girl asleep on her daddy's chest

3.  Giggles from a two year old and his sweet hugs

4.  Gifts and meals from wonderful friends

5.  Grace unending 

6.  Being loved by a good man

7.  My boys  (all of them)

8.  Sweet sister love from the best big sister ever

9.  Almond M&M's  

10.  Christmas lights

and tomorrow holds even more...