Tonight is a cold, wintery night. Old Man Winter graced upstate NY with about 8 inches snow! The weather outside may be frigid but inside, in my heart, it’s toasty warm.
Sitting here counting my blessings leaves me with a feeling of humble thanksgiving.
The man I married almost 13 years ago is still the man I love the most today. We have made some forever memories over the years. I am content to say that each year we grow closer together. I couldn’t ask for a better mate in this life.
I reflect on our baby boy, Tanner, this year. He’s almost 18 months old. This holiday season is holding extra special moments. His eyes lit up when we started lugging out the Christmas twinkle lights. The “ohhhh” that kept uttering from his little mouth every time he discovered a new ornament on the tree was sweeter than any candy cane. My day is full tucking him in at night as he clings to his Tigger and gives me one last “fist bump” and smile. His scrunched up nose, four “chicklet” teeth, and slobbery kisses are the best gifts this mommy could receive this year.
Then there’s our little man, Evan. I could never have imagined what it’d be like to live and love a 4 (almost 5) year old boy. What an absolute adventure! He is smart, funny, kind, loving and full of energy. Hearing his laugh when he tells a joke, watching him dance to “Step in Time,” think intently as he builds a block castle, and draw pictures of our family are just a few of the priceless moments in any given day with Evan. Then there are the five costume changes per day, him begging for my ski helmet and goggles to wear, plopping his skinny feet into the “moon boots” he adores and riding around on his much-too-small tricycle (in our kitchen). And homeschooling him is just another highlight. I couldn’t never have anticipated the pride and joy I’d feel teaching him to read and write, think through a question or quietly pray with him.
Seeing the relationship between our two boys is extraordinary. I had no idea it would be this fascinating to witness. As their parents, we are there to encourage them in their relationship with one another and I know that will continue over the years. But I also see such a natural love and protection they have for one another. One that mom and dad doesn’t have to foster. It’s just there. It’s precious.
Along with each other, we have the love of those around us. We are surrounded by a caring and loving extended family and also a warm-hearted church family. All of these things make for a very plenteous life and I am so grateful.
God has been better to me than I ever could have been to myself. I feel His goodness and faithfulness every day. My family is together, healthy and happy. I want for nothing this holiday season. I am blessed with eternal goodness. The best one of all is love.
Be blessed this holiday season! I pray you and yours feel the love of family and friends and, most importantly, the love of God.
Merry Christmas!
