Grateful...

Thanksgiving was wonderful! We spent it in Thousand Oaks with Cory's family and had a great time. I have always loved Thanksgiving as it affords an opportunity to ponder those things for which I am most grateful. I didn't take much time to do that last Thursday. I guess I was a little busy with babies, but I took a walk along the beach today and had some time to "count my many blessings." Here is a partial list:

The gospel, especially the Atonement and the effect it has in my life. It has changed me and allowed me to be more accepting of others as they struggle to change as well. It offers so much hope...most importantly, the hope that I can change/become better and more than who I currently am. Not many people on this earth have my understanding of God's plan...and I still have so much learn

The power of God in my life whether that is manifest through a priesthood blessing, the Gift of the Holy Ghost, ordinances, the scriptures, or the temple. How many people have such ready access to God's power?

My wonderful husband. He understands/accepts/fulfills his responsibility as the provider for our family. He also loves me and is always willing to sacrifice for me. He makes me laugh more than anyone I know and has a way of getting me to relax and enjoy life a little more. (for those of you who know me, you know why this is so amazing) He makes regular efforts to understand me better and change himself in order to make me happier. I don't really know that many women can truly say that these days.

My beautiful boys. The fact that they were conceived. The fact that they are here. The fact that they are perfectly healthy. The opportunity the Lord has given me to do my best to teach them of his love and plan. I can think of no greater blessing than the opportunity to be a mother, and it is a privilege that not everyone gets in this life.

My parents. Being raised in a home where I regularly felt the spirit, and the effect that has had in my life. I am coming to realize more and more what amazing people my parents are. There is an amazing spirit in their home and I am slowly coming to understand how hard they have worked/are working to make it that way. My parent put nothing before each other and their children. Few parents take their responsibility as seriously as mine do.

My siblings. I love each of my brothers and sisters. I would call them my dearest friends. We can laugh, cry, and play together, and best of all we can discuss the gospel and I can learn from them. How many people really like all their siblings?

My husband's family. I truly consider them family, and I believe I was meant to become a member of their family. I enjoy being with them. I admire them. I have learned so much from them. I am comfortable in their home and feel loved and accepted by them. They are good. They want to be better and they care about me. I am motivated by their individual examples. We have fun together and I always look forward to seeing them. I believe few people have such a great relationship with their in-laws.

My health. I haven't always had it, so it means a lot. I have been incredibly healthy during my pregnancy and after and it has allowed me to enjoy the process more. With all the diseases/problems that exist, I am grateful for my health.

Living in the USA, and the opportunities that affords: I can worship as I want, learn and improve myself as I wish, speak my mind, and live free of oppression. How few people on this earth can claim the same privileges!

And now some less significant, but fun things:

*the smell of the beach that reminds me of my husband b/c he loves it so much
*the sound of water and the peace it can bring me
*baby stretches, baby body parts (mini noses, hands, toes, tongues, ears), baby smiles and coos, *Chocolate ice cream and berries
*hot baths and a good book
*blogs/staying in touch with friends
*long walks and fresh air
*naps
*the smell on rainy days
*otter pops
*music and it's ability to affect my mood
*The beauty of the world we live in and the evidence that is of God's love
*Good books

Overall, I feel that I belong to a very select and blessed group of people. I can't even put into words how grateful I am. Where much is given, much is required. I feel like my commitment to do God's will and bless the lives of others has been renewed as I have thought about all these blessings.