I Am Thankful For.....

We were given a challenge in Relief Society to keep a "gratitude" journal...we were even given a little journal to keep it in. Well, life has been crazy so my little journal is still in my Primary bag but with Thanksgiving this week I need to write about all that I am thankful for.

First of all, my family. They are the most important things in my life. My husband, Wayne, is the best thing that has ever happened to me. He has been loving, kind, considerate, and treats me like a queen. He is the best father to his kids. Since he has milked cows ever since I have known him, he is also the hardest worker I know. I am grateful that he moved his family to Clifton. It has been the best place to raise responsible, good kids that were so busy helping around the farm they never had time to get into trouble. He spent tons of one-on-one time with each of them. Many were the times that they would come up to the house after doing their outside chores and say "I'd have been in 45 minutes ago, but I was talking to dad."

Of course, there are my five kids...Daran, Daralyn, Kelly, Jaime, and Jeff. We loved having our kids around and even enjoyed their teenage years. Life isn't the same without them living at home. We've decided that empty-nest isn't the best time of life. I am so proud of the wonderful parents that they are making to their own children. We are so blessed!

I am grateful for the choices my kids made in their eternal companions. They are all so different, but I love them tons. LoriAnn is a doll, and willing to help me out whenever needed. She helps to keep Daran organized, and that isn't easy! She loves to entertain so the family parties are at her house....I LOVE HER FOR THAT! Even though Shane asked me what I was on when I chose the color of paint for my kitchen, he is a wonderful husband for Daralyn and a doting father for their children. Bob, Kelly's husband, is just plain sweet and always willing to help Wayne if needed. Brandon is the most "prepared" person in our family. I always know he will take care of my Jaime. Even though he says he will put me in a "home" someday, he is frugal enough that he will have the money to pay for it! Last, but not least, is our Nicole. Keeping Jeff sane back in Vet School is a full-time job for her and we appreciate it so much. I love how modest she always has been and how the church is so important in her life. She is a wonderful mother and I am so thankful that she has this opportunity.

Then there are our 17 "Smart" grandchildren...Whitnee, Brookelle, Savannah, Rylee, Scotty, Hadlee, Matthew, Jordan, Jessica, Kori, Amber, Morgan, Brenden, Miles, Ammon, Michael, and baby Kamryn. They are the delight of my life!!!

I am very grateful for my church and my testimony of it. I love my country and I love where I live in it. I am grateful for a warm house, plenty of food (too much!!!) and money to pay my bills.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!!