Thankful - Day 30

Today, I'm thankful for this blog.
It's been a great way for me to keep track of all the stuff going on here at the Sullivan household.  Even though the kids are big and gone all day to school, the everyday stuff doesn't seem as cute as it used to.  But lucky for me I can look back at my "blog" books and remember all the "fun" stuff.  I love that this little blog helps me stay connected with family far and near and I'm thankful for the past 30 days of Thanksgiving.  Most importantly, I'm thankful for all who read this little blog of mine.  I know I used to be much better at posting, but I hope to get back on track and start to do better. 
Today, I'm thankful for this super, easy way to scrapbook our lives.

Thankful - Day 29

Today, I'm thankful for a friendly spirit.
I had to go out this morning for a few things and even though I didn't feel the greatest, I still thanked the cashier and smiled at her.  In return, she thanked me for smiling at her.  She informed me that all morning, she had dealt with crappy customers.  She said that my "smile" had already turned her day around.  Now I don't actually think it was my smile that did anything, but just that I took a few seconds to actually thank her.  It reminded me, that even during this super busy holiday time, we all need to take a few seconds and SMILE.  You never know, you could make someones day!
Today, I'm thankful for a friendly spirit and smile!

Thankful - Day 28

Today, I'm thankful for antibiotics!
A quick call to the doctor was all it took.  Oh, and a pretty sweet hubby who goes out to pick it up.  Now hoping they kick in soon!
Today, I'm thankful for doctors, medicine and the insurance we take for granted.

Thankful - Day 27

Today, I'm thankful for a leisurely day here at home.
I'm a little under the weather so today I am thankful for a hot shower, a box of Puffs with lotion and lots of liquids. Loungin' time with the laptop, words with friends (I'm totally addicted!), and lots of holiday movies already playing....hoping this cold moves on out of here quickly so that I can enjoy the start of this wonderful season!
Today, I'm thankful for a quiet day!

Thankful - Day 26

Today, I'm thankful for more time with family. 
My kiddos are so lucky to have cousins close in age and they always have a blast together. 
Today is about just being together and enjoying every moment.
Today, I'm thankful for the family I married into and creating some fantastic memories!

Thankful - Day 25

Today, I'm thankful for the start of the holiday season.
As you can see by this ol' blog of mine, I'm getting ready for Christmas.  I've got the Christmas music blaring, the house is a total disaster and there is Christmas stuff everywhere you look.  I LOVE it.  But one thing I want to do differently this year.  I want to enjoy getting the Christmas stuff out.  I want to take my time and go through the stuff and reminisce about where or when I got the items.  I want to remember the real reason for the season and really enjoy every minute of it.   I just asked Andy to remind me that it all doesn't need to be done today, or even this weekend. 
So today, as I am still in my jammies (although they are Christmas jammies), listening to the new Michael Buble cd (which is totally awesome!) I'm thankful to know the REAL meaning of Christmas and hope to share that with as many people I can over this holiday season!

Thankful - Day 24

Today, I'm thankful for Thanksgiving Day traditions!
Again, it's the simple things that I love most about Thanksgiving.  I LOVE taking all morning to go through the ad-filled newspaper while enjoying my coffee.  I LOVE watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade while making whatever I'm taking to our Thanksgiving dinner.  I LOVE the time spent with family and friends, eating and laughing, sharing memories of when "this" or "that" happened.  But most of all, I LOVE the kickoff to the holiday season!  It's just the best time of the year! 
Today, I'm thankful for Thanksgiving and the memories we create while spending the day with family and friends. 

Thankful - Day 23

Today, I'm thankful for the simple things!
A hubby home from work for the next few days (we'll see if I'm still thankful for this come Sunday....ha, just kidding), family game night, laughing so hard you want to pee your pants, just hangin' out with our little family of four, the bright sunshine today, a warm shower, a good book and thinking about all the things we are blessed with each and every day. 
Today, I am thankful for all these things!

Thankful - Day 22

 Today, I am thankful for this: 

Translation:

Thanksgiving at Papa's house.

My aunt is in the kitchen making turkey and pie.  The relatives are coming from Chicago with pie and sugar cookies.  I help by cleaning.  We all sit down and are ready to eat.  I sat by Jodi and Dad and am ready to say that I'm thankful for God.  Our family talks and eats.  I love to eat turkey the best.  For dessert we eat pie and we are all crazy.  After dinner, we celebrated by dancing. 

By:  Max

I'd have to say that his version is SO much cuter!
Today, I'm thankful that this seemingly small project put a great big smile on my face.

Thankful - Day 21

Today, I'm thankful for a new path!
Sometimes things just don't go as you would have liked them to.  Whatever the reason, things just don't work out.  But figuring that out is part of the plan.  Having prayers answered, guidance from above and a supportive husband makes that journey a lot easier to deal with. 
Today I'm thankful for people who understand and make venturing out on a new path much easier.

Thankful - Day 20

Today, I'm thankful for the power of prayer.
It's pretty amazing stuff.  And I am lucky enough to have some awesome prayer warriors out there.  To have people praying for me when I need it most.  Today, I texted a couple girlfriend to "pray NOW" and boy did they.  Their prayers helped me through a difficult situation, and even though they may not know the extent of the prayers or why they were needed, just knowing that they are praying for me, means so much. 

Today, I'm thankful for the people in my life who will pray for me, no matter what. 

Thankful - Day 19

Today, I'm thankful for my dad.
It's his birthday and I couldn't think of a better way to honor him today than to announce it to the world (well at least the few people who read this little blog of mine!)  I had a rather complicated father/daughter experience with my biological father, (which I'm totally thankful that we were able to have a "normal" relationship before he passed away) but I was lucky to have someone special step in at those times when I NEEDED a father.  He has treated me like his own from the beginning and I am so thankful for that.  I always remind myself that any man can be a father, but it takes someone really special to be a dad. 
Today, I'm thankful for my dad and the person he has helped shape me to be.
Happy Birthday Dad, I love you!

Thankful - Day 18

Today, I'm thankful for well behaved kids!
I have good kids.  It's something I'm very proud of.  People have told me, "your so lucky to have such good kids" and I am, but I don't think it's all about luck.  I run a tight ship here!  I'm kinda strict.  I expect a lot and I'm definitely NOT the fun parent.  But I have learned to be okay with that.  My children are learning to be responsible, well-rounded and giving people.  My goal with raising these wonderful people is something I learned from my Aunt Pat.  I am always telling the kids, "You don't have the be the smartest kid, you don't have the be the prettiest kid, you don't have to be the most athletic kid, you don't have to be the most popular kid, but you DO have to be the nicest kid"!  To me, this just says it all.
Today, I'm so thankful for good, responsible kids!

Thankful - Day 17

Today, I'm thankful for my bible study.
We are doing a Disciple class and I totally thought I would be overwhelmed with the class.  I didn't feel like I knew enough to be in it.  But I LOVE it!  More importantly, I love how Pastor Paul teaches the class.  I feel so blessed that he even offered to teach our class, I'm sure he could have found a few hundred other things to keep him busy for two hours every week.  I'm thankful that he has taken the time for a group of moms who totally appreciate all he does.
Today, I"m thankful for Pastor Paul, the bible study, and the opportunity to learn more!

Thankful - Day 16

Today, I'm thankful for an easy morning routine. 
Maggie has always done well at getting up and getting ready.  She's a lot like me in that way.  We like to have extra time, to not rush and actually enjoy the morning.  Max...not so much.  He's more like Andy in this way.  It takes a little while to get him going.  But today was an exception.  He popped out of bed, was dressed and was making his bed before I even got to his room to wake him up.  It was a great surprise and a great way to start my day!
Today, I'm thankful for a happy, smooth morning routine.
(Sometimes it's the really simple things we should be thankful for!)

Thankful - Day 15

Today, I'm thankful for family time.
We love "The Singoff" on NBC and we can't wait to watch it each week.  I love how the kids remind me that it's on and that we need to get the popcorn ready.  I just love our family time together and know that someday soon these precious times are going to end.  So, I'll keep gettin the popcorn ready, and cuddle up with my kiddos just to soak up every moment of this togetherness.  It will be over before I know it.
Today, I"m so thankful for family time and a great family to share it with.

Thankful - Day 14

Today, I'm thankful for my extended family.
After spending some time with my family over the weekend (at my cousin Nichole's wedding) I am reminded about how important family is.  Even though we have our issues (because all families do) our love for each other shines through.  Seeing my mom dance with her brother (the bride's dad), all the cousins dancing together and having a great time, sharing memories and laughs.  I'm so thankful that even though we are just as dysfunctional as the rest of the world, we can all come together and enjoy one another. 
Today, I am thankful for my family and the memories we share together.  

Thankful - Day 13

Today I am thankful for a giving spirit.
On Friday, while the kids and I were out and about, we came to a busy intersection and there she stood.  A young girl, probably not even 20 yet, standing there in an over-sized coat and stocking hat holding a cardboard sign....the only words I saw were, "HOMELESS" and "HUNGRY".  I looked away before I could read the rest.  My heart just ached.  We drove past her and went on to eat lunch at Avanti's.  The kids and I ate our warm lunch, ordered too much (like we do most of the time) and left with a to-go box.  We left a generous tip for our server and had no worries about how we would pay for our lunch.  I had almost forgotten about the girl, until we got back to the car to head home.  As I was pulling out of the parking lot, a feeling of I-have-to-do-something, came over me.  My car turned back toward the girl.  (I say the car, because I was fighting to go the other way toward home...I mean, I had kids with me)  I secretly hoped she was gone.  But she was still there.  I said a quick prayer and pulled into a nearby parking lot.  I grabbed two $5 from my wallet (that's all the cash I had) and took our left-over box containing half of a personal sized pizza (still warm) and half of a loaf of bread.  I walked toward the girl, whose face seemed so sad, and I handed her the food and money.  Her eyes met mine and all I could say was, "I hope this helps a little".  Her eyes said it all. 

As I got back in the car, and drove off, I went over the situation a million times.  I wish I would have said more. I wish I would have said something different, something more meaningful.  I wish I would have wrote on the box, "you are loved!"  I wish...I wish...I wish.  But in reality, I did what I was supposed to do.  Tears were poring out of my eyes as I thought to myself about how this could be one of my children someday.  A few mistakes or poor choices and that could be anyone I love.  I would want someone to stop for them.  To help them. 

When we were about home, Max asked, "Mom, is the girl going to be okay?"  My answer to him was, "God loves her buddy, she's going to be just fine!"
Today, I'm thankful for the ways God uses all of us to show His love to others. 

(sorry that was a long one....but I felt it needed to be shared!)

Thankful - Day 12

Today, I'm thankful for my marriage!
We have a big wedding event in our family this weekend and I want to take the time today to remember all the wonderful things about my husband and our commitment to each other.  Weddings are always emotional for me (big surprise, I'm sure) and today I want to remember that while the "wedding" is a great day, that the real fun comes with all the years that follow.  In all the happiness and sorrow, in the easy times and in the very hard.  In health and illness.  And most importantly, in the mundane-everyday-routine stuff that isn't always the most fun.  These are the times that really matter.  I have to say, I picked a good one.  A life partner who is truly committed and loves me just the way I am.  I love you Andy, thanks for being YOU!
Today, I'm thankful for a happy marriage.

Thankful - Day 11

Today, I am thankful for our freedom. 
I'm thankful for those who have fought and those still fighting for our freedom.  I'm thankful for their families.  I'm thankful for the sacrifice they have all made.  Today I honor YOU!  Thank you!
Today, I am thankful for ALL the Veterans!

Thankful - Day 10

Today, I am thankful for our health.
I have a healthy active husband, I have healthy, happy kiddos and I have been doing very well with my not-so-friendly-friend, multiple sclerosis.  I continue to take a daily injection, and that is really the only time I think about my MS.  It is not preventing me from doing anything I would normally do and I hope that continues for a long, long time.  I am so thankful for the research, the treatment options and the knowledge of all the doctors I've been in contact with. 
Today, I am so thankful for a healthy, happy family!

Thankful - Day 9

Today, I am thankful for my friends!
I have been SO blessed with the friendships I have.  God has an awesome way of placing people in your life when and where we need them.  I have a couple of friends who I've known over half my life and even though we don't live close to each other, we still can pick up right where we left off.  I have another girlfriend who totally "gets" me.  She totally understands my quirks and is always willing to listen to me vent.  Sometimes I talk to her three, or four, okay, maybe even five times a day.  I know, it's an illness.  I have another friend who tells me when I'm being totally ridiculous, and to "get over it".  She is so real and just says it how it is.  I love that about her.  My friendships; ones I've had for years upon years or the brand new ones, the friends I see or talk to daily/weekly or those who I don't see or talk to very often.  They are ALL so special to me!  I thank God for each and every friendship He has put in my life.
Today, I am thankful for YOU, my friend!

Thankful - Day 8

Today, I'm thankful for my sweet, baby boy Max.
That boy....I never knew I could love a little boy as much as I love him.  I grew up will all girls, so when I found out I was having a boy....I was terrified.  But God had other plans, He made the sweetest, most compassionate, lovable little guy, how could you NOT love him.  He has a heart of gold and loves everyone he meets.  His outgoing personality is so refreshing and he's absolutely darling to top it off. 
Today, I'm so thankful for my sweet, lovable and healthy Maxwell Andrew.

Thankful - Day 7

Today, I am thankful for my sweet Maggie!
I never really knew how my life would change when I became a mother, and she has changed me for the better.  I feel so lucky to be her mom.  She is a wonderful girl with such a sweet personality.  She's a good worker and is always eager to please.  She is responsible and yet still has a lot of her daddy in her.  I am so proud of her and am truly honored to be her mom.
Today I'm SO thankful for my beautiful, sweet, healthy daughter, Maggie Ray!

Thankful - Day 6

Today I am thankful for an extra hour!
I don't know why, but that one hour of lighter sky in the morning sure helps to get me going.  It's amazing to me how just one extra hour makes a world of difference.  I love how bright it is in the morning, however I'm not a huge fan of it getting dark so early.  But this post is all about the positive!
So, today, I am thankful for that extra hour....every single minute of it!

Thankful - Day 5

Today, I am thankful for my sister-in-law Jodi.
I'm so lucky to have married into such an awesome family and today I was able to spend the entire day with Jodi.  Of course, our day included what we love to do best...shopping!  With a little bus trip to the burbs, our plan of action in hand, and only a few shorts breaks...we had a perfect day.  And sharing the day with her was the best part.  Thanks again for being my date, Jod...I love ya!
Today, I'm thankful for my sassy, stylish, sister-in-law, Jodi.

Thankful - Day 4

Today, I am so thankful for my hubby.
His love and compassion for others is what I love most about him.
He is so supportive and a fantastic father.  I still can't believe I get to share my life with him.
Today, I am thankful for my wonderful husband. 

Thankful - Day 3

Today, I'm thankful for a warm, cozy home.
It may seem insignificant, but with the wet, windy, cold weather today, I'm thankful for a warm place for my family to come home to.  Even though we all go our different ways each day, knowing that we will all meet back at home together is something I will always cherish.
Today, I'm thankful for a warm, cozy home.

Thankful - Day 2

Today, I'm thankful for my country!
We live in a country where I feel like sometimes we take our freedom for granted, at least I know I do.  Today I'm going to take some time and really think about all the freedoms we have and the  people who fight each and every day for this wonderful gift!
Today, I'm thankful for my country!

Thankful - Day 1

Today I am thankful for my Lord.
A Lord who gave His only son for me....little ol' me!
A Lord who loves me and shows me His love in so many wonderful ways!
Today I am thankful for my Lord!