Gratitude

This past week has been one of reflection and gratitude. My dear cousin, Ben, just lost his four-month old daughter, Morgan, this past week. It was extremely unexpected and I know it's been a very, very rough time for his family. As we've said our prayers for their family and thought about what they're going through, I can't help but be so grateful for what I have. I am so very blessed to have two beautiful daughters who call me "Mommy" and an amazing husband who loves us all very much. Nate and I have been talking a lot about, "what if it was us?" The fact is, you never know when a tragedy can hit you or your family. We have had so many close calls with Keilah falling down a flight of stairs or running around on the pool deck, or many other instances where she could've easily been killed. I have definitely changed my mindset in how I treat my family. I don't get so bugged anymore when Linnea won't sleep at all or spits up all over me right after I changed my shirt. I don't get as frustrated as I used to when Keilah screams and throws tantrums. I am trying to say "I love you" much more to my girls and to my husband.

In all of this sadness and loss, it has been a great comfort to know that our Heavenly Father has a plan for us. He wants us all to be together again. He made it possible for us to be families forever. If anything should happen to me or my family, the knowledge I have that I WILL see them again is enough to calm my fears. I know that my cousin, Ben, and his wife, Kira, will see their little Morgan again and that this life is so short compared to the eternity we get to spend together. However, I also know that it can happen to any of us so please, please, please love your spouses, children, siblings, parents, and friends like it's the last day you'll see them in awhile. So, I love you all and want to thank you for your love and support for us wayyyyyy out here in Texas :)