Thankful

Other thanksgivings to me were just days. A day off school, a day with family, a day of good food. My last thanksgiving, we went away. I took the kids out to see mom. We went to the keg that night. Horrible food, service, and we weren't even with all of our family!

Then the unthinkable happened, and I was almost taken from my family.

This year. I know I have so much to be thankful for. And I want to encourage others to really think, what are you thankful for. Yes, this is a day off work/school. It is a day with family and food, usually. But what are you thankful for.

I am sure to many the past year has brought good and bad memories. Think back to all those wonderful times, and people that helped you through the not so great ones. Take time to thank whom ever you need too. Think about where you would be without the wonderful people in your life!

I am thankful for my brother. We were close growing up, then grew apart. But in the last year, we got closer than ever. My brother gave me the gift of life. Without him, who knows where I would be. On March 5th of this year my body accepted his stem cells. Which he gave on the longest day of his life, I am sure. Brooklynn came into this world in the wee hours of that morning (feb 24). Then he managed to walk to the other side of the hospital to give his stem cells. They got enough cells to help me. And thanks to him, I am here today!

I am thankful to my husband! He spent many nights on a hospital fold out plastic chair. He did not leave my side. It made the stay half barible knowing he was there for me. He became my nurse at home, and learned many medical things to take care of me. He also became Mr. Mom and tried to deal with the kids. He kept up his work while dealing with me and the kids. He learned how to take care of the house and bills, and did everything I used too! He amazed me more and more each day. I knew I loved him, and didn't think it was possible to love anyone more, but each day my heart grew bigger for him.

I am thankful for my kids. They went through a lot last year. Danika was not used to being away from me, and all of a sudden I was gone. She adjusted well to having many people take care of her. And shared her bed nicely with grandma for a long time! Bryce, although he won't remember any of it, it was his first year of life. I am thankful he behaved for everyone. I am thankful they are too young to remember, but they will be told about it all, and taught about giving back and being thankful for what we have, because it could be taken in the blink of an eye.

I am thankful for many things this thanksgiving, including all of our friends and family. Everyone pitched in where they could, and it helped us and made us realize how thankful we are for having all of you in our lives.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! I hope you have a day, and year filled with family, friends and fun. Remember to take the time to reflect and thank those people that made/ make your life what it is!