The time has come again to take the time to be thankful.  My friend from college started 30 Days of thankful last year on Facebook.  I really enjoyed taking the time each today to reflect on things for which I am thankful.  Each day in the month of November, I updated my Facebook status to include what I was thankful for that day.  Here’s the culmination of the month for this year:

Day 1: I am thankful for oreos. It sounds silly, but let me tell you how it is here. This morning oreos gave me a quick blood sugar boost when I had no time to eat. Oreos helped me maintain my calm when Baby E decided to color the chair. And mostly, oreos just taste awesome! Luckily I don’t keep them around very often.

Day 2: I am thankful for quiet mornings. When the big kids are off to school and theres like 30 minutes before Baby E wakes up. I can stare into space, have a cup of coffee, or even climb back in bed.

Day 3: I am thankful for my children’s generous hearts. They had so much fun picking out items to fill boxes for Operation Christmas Child. You would think they were picking out gifts for their best friends.

Day 4: I am thankful for toddler kisses. I could be having the worst day or being driven crazy by toddler tantrums, but one smooch from my almost 2 year old and I’m all better. Oh! And he does the “mmmmmmmm-wha” sound effects too – too cute.

Day 5: I am thankful for days when we don’t have to be anywhere or do anything at any specific time. Yes, we cleaned today, but we didn’t have to run around or be anywhere.

Day 6: I am thankful for an extra hour of sleep. It sure helped to get some extra zzz’s. I felt ready for the day today.

Day 7: I am thankful that Baby E still takes an afternoon nap. How else could I get anything done with this active toddler around?

Day 8: I am thankful for my right to vote. No matter the opinion, if you don’t vote, your saying that it’s okay for others to decide what’s best. Your opinion may not always win, but at least you had a voice.

Day 9: I am thankful for my church family. Church is our home away from home and we felt very special tonight. There was a “Happy Birthday” sign and balloons at a table for us at dinner tonight and a table sang Happy Birthday to Baby E too. Thank you everyone!

Day 10: I am thankful for naps. Not just naps for Baby E, but those days when I’m tired and cold and need a nap too. Today, Baby E actually took his nap and I was able to get some zzz’s and wake up refreshed. Ahhh!

Day 11: I am thankful for all of veterans who have served (and those who currently serve) our country! Thank you so much for all that you do and the sacrifices that you have made!

Day 12: I am thankful for my hubby. He’s a fabulous dad, great cook and a loving, understanding, and patient husband. He’s my best friend and soul mate.

Day 13: I am thankful that my very cranky 2 year old is finally sleeping. Let’s hope he stays that way. These temper tantrums are getting out of control lately. I’m exhausted.

Day 14: I am thankful for Mom’s Night Outs. I love my kids, but sometimes a mom just needs a break.

Day 15: I am thankful for my sweet little boy, Baby E. Even though he’s driving me crazy with tantrums and no naps, he’s still my cute, tender baby. He knows when to turn on the cute and hand out the smooches and hugs.

Day 16: I am thankful for my daughter, A. She helped me a lot today. I had a migraine and she watched Baby E so I could sleep. She’s a sweet, caring girl and I’m so not ready for her to grow up yet.

Day 17: I am thankful for a hot drink on a cold day. Not only that I but I got one free. Nothing like a little Caramel Brulée Latte from Starbucks to warm me up. A enjoyed the free one too.

Day 18: I am thankful for my MOPS group. A wonderful (and talented) group of women who help each other and want to become better moms. They have been a great influence in my life and I look forward to every time I get to see them.

Day 19: I am thankful for family nights. We watch movies or play the Wii, eat popcorn and have lots of fun. It’s always great to have fun with your kids.

Day 20: I am thankful for a roof over my head and food on the table. In these tough economic times, many families struggle with these basic needs.

Day 21: I am thankful for my healthy family. Yeah, we get viruses (it seems like all the time) but I mean the big stuff. So many families struggle with health issues or immediate family members in the hospital. My heart and prayers go out to those families.

Day 22: I am thankful that football season is over (for the kids and hubby). I have my hubby back and we’re not running around so much. It’s nice to slow down a little every once and a while. I love that they get to participate in activities that they love, but I’m glad when the craziness of it is over.

Day 23: I am thankful that we are able to help others in need this year. We’ve been able to donate 3 boxes to Operation Christmas Child and 3 gifts for FISH families.

Day 24: I am thankful that even though I’m feeling yucky, it didn’t ruin the day. We were able to change our plans and adjust quickly. We had a great Thanksgiving even if I wan’t able to see my parents. Thanks to my hubby for cooking a turkey (and other sides) at the last minute! It was very tasty!

Day 25: I am thankful for my son G. He’s determined, stubborn and sweet. My perpetual snuggle boy. He’s difficult at times, but he’s also the kid most like me. Sometimes only I can understand him. I love him so much!

Day 26: I am thankful for girl nights with A. Special nights when the boys aren’t around where A and I can do special things – like eat chocolate, watch girl movies, and pedicures.

Day 27: I am thankful that our basement is finally getting cleaned up and out. We spent a lot of the weekend getting rid of old furniture, scrubbing floors and laying down carpet. Now the kids have a place to go play and watch “kid shows”

Day 28: I am thankful that the TV didn’t work today. Baby E and I played with cars, had tickle time, and read lots of books. We had a great time – and there was no Mickey! Sorry Mickey, you’ll probably be back tomorrow.

Day 29: I am thankful for showers. Sometimes it’s the only time I get without children fighting or clinging to me. Sometimes it’s an orchestra just to be able to take a shower – it’s a luxury.

Day 30: I am thankful for my talents. God has given me many talents and I’m so glad that I can use them to help others.

Manda

Image Credits: I created November of Thankful with the Early Fall Collection Mini by Trish Yochum at Scrap Girls Boutique.