Holy cow! Another year has come and gone. It amazes me how fast time seems to be going by now that I have children.
2009 was the beginning of my yearly turkey day letter tradition. Has it really been 8 years? 8 years ago I was in Rexburg, ID and trying to find myself after years of being misplaced amongst the crap that was my life. Although I find myself in VASTLY different circumstances, I am once again realizing that the girl that emerged from the muck 8 years ago has once again been lost. The circumstances ,like I said ,are different. Now I am a wife to a wonderful man who’s work takes up most of his time and I am a mother to 2 beautiful children who take up 90% of my time. It’s funny how you can feel so incredibly thankful for the wonderful people god has blessed you with and yet, you often find myself looking in the mirror and asking “who am I?” Yes, I am a wife and I am a mother... but I am also Liz. I was Liz long before I was responsible for anyone else and yet now, I am more responsible for everyone else and least responsible for myself (if that makes sense). I realized this the other day when I went to Walmart with my kids. Afton and Levi were in their cute little outfits. Aftons hair was pulled back into the perfect little ponytail and then there was me. I looked 1 hot minute away from being homeless. With the year coming to a close, I’m going to end it on the right foot. I’m going a gym December 1 and I’m going to start walking again. Walking has always helped me clear the cobwebs that take up residence in my brain.
This past year has been incredibly busy. Levi Samuel joined our family on May 24 and has been 100% joy for darn near 6 solid months now. My mom has commented that I have a soft spot for my little man. It’s completely true. Afton is my miracle, Levi is my joy. Afton loves being a big sister and simply adores Levi. She calls him “yiyi my baby sister”. Haha. Regardless of how many times we correct her, she insists that he is “her baby sister”.
Afton will be 3 on December 4. I’m not ready for a 3 year old. Unless it means that terrible twos transforms into thrilling threes!!!! She is very much of a sour patch kid. She can cut you with her eyes and yet totally melt your heart with her hugs and her “I love you mommy”. Every day she blossoms more and more into a stunning little girl. I adore her!!!
Paul participated in the Mid Atlantic Police Rodeo this summer. It’s the oldest and biggest rodeo on the east coast! I was so happy I was able to attend. Not only was the competition fun to watch but I am EXTREMELY proud to say Paul came home with the title of Mr. Rodeo. Out of 96 riders he came in 1st. I cannot express how proud I am of him and his ability to ride a motorcycle. I tell everyone that he is like a ballerina on a motorcycle!!!!!
I am so thankful for my sweet little family. I’m thankful for the joy they bring into my life and for the sense of fulfillment I have knowing I get to be the Mom and wife in this family.
I’m thankful for a husband who loves me unconditionally. A man who is incredibly patient with me and has never once raised his voice to me. A man who is willing to work as much as it takes to provide our little family with everything we need. I love Paul more than he knows.
I’m thankful for my relationship with our Savior. I often feel so unworthy of the blessings I have been given. I’m thankful for the tender mercies he extends to me daily.
I’m thankful for the two little boys that will be joining the Stone family this year. Carter Eron Stone will arrive December 18. Can’t believe my sister will have 2 little ones!!! John and Megan’s little man (yet to be named) is due in a few short days and I cannot wait to see what he looks like!!! What a wonderful year for our family. 3 baby boys in 1 year! What a blessing!
I’m thankful for my relationship with my parents. I treasure my conversations that I have with my dad and feeling our relationship get stronger and stronger as I get older. I’m thankful for his counsel and his love.
I’m so blessed to have a mom who has become my best friend as I’ve become an adult and especially since becoming a mother. She is my kindred spirit!
I thank god every day for my parents. I told someone just a few days ago that I feel I need my parents more now than I did as a child.
I’m thankful for my in laws for letting us take up residence in their basement as we save for a house. Especially for their patience with Afton who has decided she enjoyed being with them as much as possible!!!
Happy thanksgiving everyone. I hope your day is filled with wonderful memories. May you be safe in your travels and take the time to count your many many blessings!!!!
EQ
