Somehow...

I have managed to let 3 months slip by without a single post.

I am sorry my dear, loyal readers. (Which really means 'my dear, loyal friends) I know you're out there.

When I checked my sitemeter I had 24 visits this week.

24!

I was shocked and surprised that despite my horrible lack of postings you would still check in on me.

I feel loved.


And so today I am beginning anew my daily thoughts on the beauty that surrounds me.

The past 3 months have been wonderfully busy and full of the crazy things that summer brings.

I have had lots and lots of high moments and some lonely ones. Some dissappointments in myself, in others, and in life. I was silly and didn't recognize that those are the times when I especially needed to focus on what was good, what was beautiful, and what was blessing my life. I let my frustrations keep me from here. I just didn't want to write some of the things that I felt.

But I was wrong.

Not because I was keeping the difficult and bad from this journal, but because I was letting it keep me from the good. From realizing all that I am blessed with, daily.
How often do I have to learn that lesson?

So here I am, Grateful:

For long days and weeks and months that show me I have and am more than I thought possible.
For a husband who never, ever gives up on me and tells me constantly how much he loves me.
For little boys who laugh and smile and run with open arms for a kiss and a hug. Whose excitement for learning and life make me so glad that I am their mom.
For new babies and new life and the complete joy they bring to families.
For Moms and Dads whose visits last long enough to make it feel like we *almost* live close by.
For family who visit and make my day by playing Ticket to Ride. Yeah, it's that awesome!
For friends. Those angel people who come in the form of sisters, moms, neighbors, phone calls, notes on my door, emails, cupcakes, and surprise gifts.

You are the beauty in my past 3 months.
And for that I thank you.