Author Archives: Amanda

Gratitude ~ Day 30

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Has it really been a full month already?  Even with the Christmas lights twinkling from the decorated tree in the living room, and cards ordered and on their way, it doesn’t seem possible that the holidays are already upon us.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed making a more concentrated effort to capture the moments that seem to pass so quickly and often go unnoticed.  It’s for those small moments – stolen kisses in the kitchen, afternoon hikes on a brisk, but sunny, fall day – that I am especially grateful.

And now, as we approach the holidays, I’m so thankful for the chance to celebrate the birth of our Savior and to share the joy of the season with my family.  Today, while decorating the tree, the kids asked me to play a song and hearing their little voices sing “The First Noel” or “Silent Night” or the “Glo-o-o-o-o-o-ria” of “Angels We Have Heard on High,” – there’s no sweeter sound!

I’m thankful to any and all of you who happened to read these few words here and there.  I look forward to writing more in the days and months to come, and I’m thankful for the chance to get back into the habit, and reflect on all the blessings in my life, through this exercise of gratitude.

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Gratitude ~ Day 29

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There’s nothing like waking up early, while everyone else is still sleeping.  The whole day ahead unaccounted for, and everyone is home together.

Laundry started, blankets folder, coffee brewing, I sit just a moment before I hear the click of the bedroom door.  These mornings, when she wakes before her big brother, and I see her legs peeking further out the bottom of her pajamas pants, I’m reminded that like unaccounted for days, these years will fly by.

They make me want to remember the little moments, like when I sat her down to explain that she wouldn’t have a consequence if the circumstances were different.  And, sighing, she looks at me dejectedly and says, “Yeah, I know.  I just don’t even know what ‘circumstances’ are.”

And how she looks forward to climbing onto my lap so I can clean the “ear whack” out of her ears after bath time.

I’m reminded of the moments when she and Calder play together for hours – powering up and fighting villains.  Then each other.

The rejoining forces to take an imaginary hike through unknown lands.

Today, I’m choosing to savor the memory of the small moments.  Not the whole tree, but a few soft branches, gilded with the glow of white light.

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Gratitude ~ Day 28

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After a busy day of waterpark fun yesterday, and an overtired attempt at the evening story-time, the kids climbed into bed and crashed.  Rested and refreshed, Seneca woke first needing help getting her hands washed, and Calder awoke shortly thereafter.

“Daddy, guess what today is?” he asked, stretching.

“I don’t know, Buddy, what is it?” Garth answered, knowing Calder wanted to share the news first.

“Thanksgiving!” he shouted excitedly.  “Happy, Thanksgiving, Daddy!”

“Happy Thanksgiving, Buddy,” Garth answered as Seneca made her way to her big brother’s bed to wish well and give him a hug.

Before joining the quiet celebration, I listened and tucked this little moment away for those times when it seems like they forget what’s really important.  Because when it really counts, they do know it.  They are grateful.  They are amazing kids and we are so lucky to be their parents.

Today, we are so thankful for the amazing family we as we were able to celebrate with Garth’s parents for Jill and Garett’s first time hosting Thanksgiving dinner.  Good food, great laughter, and loving family – what more could we ask for?

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Gratitude ~ Day 27

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The falling snow,
and cold dark night
couldn’t stop me from
driving as fast as possible
holding his mittened hand
watching him explain what hurt
smiling at his strength, and
noticing how much he’s grown.

And yet,
his ear hurts.
So, once again,
he needs me,
and I’m happy
to be here for him.

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Gratitude ~ Day 26

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Their eyes wide with excitement, they ask if we’re really staying here.  I see my husband’s tense shoulders from hours driving through the dark and snow.

“Yes, we’re really staying here.”

Peals of laughter and squeals erupt from their little bodies.  Once in our room, they tear out of their clothes and into swimsuits in record time.

Tonight – I’m thankful for well-planned surprises and whispers of “Thanks, Mommy – this was the bestest surprise.”

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