giving thanks

before i whip up the cranberry sauce and yams in preparation for tomorrow, i wanted to write a few little thankful notes. aside from the "usual generics" (ie. family, church), i wanted to get down some specifics that at this time in my life are huge blessings.

1. my next-door neighbors. for the first time in my married life i'm actually hanging out with my neighbor! and of course it helps that she's awesome and has a little boy around the same age as J. she's been a gem and has helped me settle into life here in albemarle.
2. my yard. again, this is the first time in our married life that scott and i have a decent yard and can enjoy some grass!
3. quilts and fabric. kinda silly. but they're my latest obsession. i like feeling creative and that i have a skill at something. a bundle of lovely fabrics in my mailbox makes me happy. and i'm grateful for that.
4.elder cawley. aka my best brother. and only brother. he's changed over the past two years (maturity-wise:) but is still the same goofy guy i grew up with and love.
5. the relief society manuals. i don't get to mentally attend relief society much so being able to read the lesson the night before church really helps me a part of my ward.
6. scott's job. our family has been so blessed in that area. and in these current economic times we do not take that for granted.we are very thankful.
7. womanhood and motherhood.  i'm grateful that Heavenly Father has given me the chance to be a mother and experience the joys of raising J. he's one crazy, delightful kid and keeps me on my toes.
8. skype. life-changing. getting to actually see my family whenever i want is simply wonderful.
9. missionary experiences. there is no greater joy than sharing the gospel. when i talked to my hair stylist about the gospel of jesus christ i could feel the spirit and my own testimony growing by leaps and bounds.
10. my sealing. and the chance to see my sister Brittany sealed to Cardon this saturday! being in the temple with my sister will be amazing. Brittany is such a great person. feisty, yes. but she carries the most giving and humble heart. i love her dearly. and so i am most thankful for her this thanksgiving.

happy thanksgiving!