Thankful.

Is it just me, or am I the only person who just realized that Thanksgiving is in ONE week? I mean, wow... I'm really out of it!

With Thanksgiving approaching so rapidly (in my little world), I thought I'd write about the things I am thankful for.... this year, and always.

1. Let's start with the obvious, the little Doodle Bug that's asleep in my lap. Margaret Kathryn Jacobs... my second, surprise, sweet baby girl. It's hard to believe that she's almost six months old already. Seriously, where does the time go?

2. I must follow up with the darling girl who's asleep in her other room (so thankful for naptime)... Samantha Kennedy. My little almost 1 1/2 year old darling... she brings so much life to the world.

3. My husband, Brandon. Each day is a new one lately.... lots of struggles, but triumph over the ridiculousness that we seem to find.

4. My family. My parents celebrated 40 years of marriage this year. Amazing! My brothers are living their lives... Jason is having so much success in Florida, and I think Michael is really starting to find his way.

5. My mother in law. After 2 major surgeries this year, she's proven that you really can come back from the brink.

6. The ability to create life. My friend Jessie and her husband Paul were blessed with Addyson Rose this year, after almost 10 years of trying to create a family, there was success, and what an incredible gift she is! Plus, the baby water that's floating around Augusta, creating life in so many friends' lives. 2010 will be an incredible experience for a lot of people I know!

7. Brandon's job. And all the stress that goes with it. It keeps a roof over our head, and food in our stomachs.

8. President Obama. And the Military. Although not everyone agrees with his policies, or the fact that he is President, the fact is that he IS President, and is keeping us FREE.

9. The beauty of the world. .I'd never been West of Sioux Falls... it's amazing to see the state I've lived in for 7 years, and experience the history behind it.

10. Friends. Near or far... around all the time, or just when in a bind. Amazing.

11. Creativity. My jewelry business is starting to (slowly) take off.

12. Elphie. Yes, my dog. It's incredible how intelligent she is... she knows bad days, she knows how to play with Samantha... and she knows how to lay her head on my lap at the perfect moment, when I need that little boost.

13. Intelligent Scientists. Without certain drugs, I can't imagine how much worse I could feel.

14. The seasons. With each new day, it means life goes on.

15. Second chances. Enough said.

There are so many things I'm thankful for.... the list could go on... the response could go on... but know, I am thankful. I'm blessed. And when I really look at everything... happy.

Melissa