Giving Thanks

"Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action." ~W.J. Cameron

Thanksgiving Day:  A day filled with food, family, and friends.   But what it the true meaning of the day?  The Pilgrims set forth on a journey to the new world in hopes for religious freedom.  Even though the journey was difficult and many people lost their lives, they still took time to give thanks.  Those that survived had each other, they had new friends, they had a new life, they had their religious freedom that they so greatly longed.   The point?  Do not dwell on what is missing from your life, but offer thanks for what and who you have.  Life is a difficult journey and we only get to travel this road one time.  We should to choose to be thankful and gracious ever day of ours lives, not just on this one day of the year.

As many do on this day, I must take the time to reflect on what I am thankful for in my life.

Mom and Dad:  You gave me life. :)  And although I could reflect on the hard times, I prefer to remember the good times.  I love you both from the bottom of my heart!  Because of you both I am who I am today.  And for that, I thank you.

Deb, Sis, Melissa:  You hold very special places in my heart.  Although we are not related by blood, you are my family.  I appreciate everything you have done and been.  I can't imagine my life without you!

My husband Tim:  You always say that I am your rock; but you are also mine.  I give thanks for the past 21 years... the good, the great, and the bad.  It has been a roller coaster.... fun but scary sometimes.  I thank you for putting up with me cause I know I can be a challenge ;)

My daughter Ashley: I am thankful that you are alive :)  Since you were born you have been the light of my life.  I am proud of who you are and who you are becoming. 

My daughter Sammy:  I am thankful for you showing me the lighter side of life.  I love that you are so silly and don't take everything so seriously.  Your love for life is inspiring :)

My son Robbie:  You are amazing.  I am so thankful that you are in my life. You are everything and more that a mother could ask for. Thank you for still wanting to snuggle with me :)

My Kapri:  What can I say?  I am thankful to have the opportunity to have you in my life.  You have changed me and my view of the world. I love your resilience and optimism.  Thank you for being you :)

My friends:  You know who you are! :)  Thank you for standing by me through the years.  I could not have made my life journey without you all by my side!

My extended family:  You know who you are, too! :)  Thanks for everything you are.  I appreciate each one of you for various reasons.  I love having you in my life :)

For anyone I forgot to mention, thank you for understanding that my time and and brain cells are limited ;)

Bottom line, I have much to be thankful for. Probably more than I even know.

Happy Thanksgiving!!  XOXO Sabrina

Moving forward...

With more than half of my second term behind me, it seemed like a good time for an update.  My courseload consists of three classes.  All are going well.  I worked ahead early in the term.... thank goodness!  My life has been crazy these past couple of weeks and I have not spent nearly enough time on my education.  But because I was ahead of the game, I am not at all behind.  I need to stay focused this week and push forward.

I am learning A LOT!  The courses are quite interesting and I actually am enjoying grad school.  I expected this would be the case because I am learning about things I am interested in.  You know, like placentas, breastfeeding, etc. LOL  I'm a birth geek and proud of it!! :)

I appreciated a comment from a co-worker this weekend.  She remarked at how she thought my bedside manner really makes a difference.  Her words of compliment were very encouraging!  I have found my true calling.  By pursuing a higher level of knowledge and skill, I will have the ability to make a HUGE difference for many more women.

On the home front, our family continues to make a difference.  Our fourth child has settled in nicely.  She will remain a member of our family through the next six months at the least.  We enjoy having her here!  I personally feel like I have grown as a parent over the past month.  THAT is a very amazing feeling! 

Time to sign off and feed the four legged children ;)

Until next time.....
XOXOX Sabrina