{Gratitude}

Today has been one of those days that make you take a step back and look at all the things you are truly blessed with. It's been way to long since I've sat down and done a gratitude post and that makes me sad. I picked just a few off my list of things I've been thinking of to share with you today!

Girls Night Out

I'm a big believer in girls nights out......weather it's a Bunko night or Eclipse and dinner with the girls, I need it and I look forward to it! We had a great time last week at the movie, Eclipse of course, dinner and then hanging out at Ann's afterwards.

My Hardworking Man

You would think that since my Husband is a teacher, I might just look forward to the summer break......not so much. Just because he gets a break from his "real" job doesn't mean I see him any more this time of year. He actually works two jobs through the summer, and longer hours. I'm not complaining, I'm thankful that Derrick is such a hard worker and I love him for that!

Family Time

One thing I love about this time of year is four wheeler rides almost every evening. We all hop on the bikes and take the dog for a run or just head up the canyon a little way. Of course the boys favorite little detour is through the water and they're getting pretty good at making a splash! Derrick brought home a new (to us) two-up a few weeks ago, and now Brock has decided that I need to ride with Dad and he's taking over my bike??? We'll see about that?

Good Friends

I had the chance to spend part of today at the funeral of my friend Amy that I blogged about here a few months back. As sad as the day was, it was an amazing tribute to an even more amazing lady. All of you should go to her blog and read the advice that she and her husband, Gary have shared, they are truly amazing people and when I grow up I want to be just like Amy! While there, I also got to see friends that I haven't seen for sometime. I am thankful to have so many great people that I consider friends, who lift me up and are examples to me. Some of them I see and talk to often, others it's been years, and some of my blog friends I've yet to meet, but each of you inspire me and make me want to be a better person!

Birthday Love

Isn't my cake ADORABLE.......yep, I have a talented sister! Thank you all for your sweet birthday wishes, you made my day!

Freedom

I am truly grateful to live in a free country, and to those who have made that possible. I'll admit, every time I hear our National Anthem, I cry. We are blessed!

Morning Walks

My mom, Lisa and I have been meeting for a morning walk for the last month or so. I know I've said before how much I love mornings.......ummm, not at all! But, knowing that my mom is waiting out front (and watering my flowers if I'm too slow) gets me up and going. We meet Lisa at the corner and off we go. As much as I need the exercise, that's not really why I keep going..... it's the time I get to visit with my mom and my sister, time that I cherish! They are truly two of my best friends, and for that I'm grateful!

June 30th, 1950
Harold & NaDean Beckstrand~ 2010

My Grandparents

My sweet grandparents celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary this past week! I am grateful for the example they have been to me, for the chance I had to grow up just four blocks from them, and that my children now get to grow up just four blocks from them. Aren't they adorable?