How grateful I am...

Wow....these holidays have really snuck up on me this year. Thanksgiving has come and gone and now is the time for Santa to bring gifts to all the good boys and girls. Where has this year gone to? So I've read others sharing how grateful they are and just thought that it was my turn since I have to much to really be grateful for.

First off, I have been tremendously blessed this year. Sometimes I think that I don't really deserve all that I have but nevertheless am grateful. I have a wonderful husband who works hard for his family. He makes it possible for me to stay at home with our son Dezi, who has blessed our lives in more ways than one, to raise and nurture him. I can't imagine not being with him now and it has been such a whirlwind to see how fast he has grown up and all that he has accomplished. And to think, I was there for it all. His first smiles and laughter, babbles and words, the first time he sat up and crawled, the first time he reached out for me, his first steps and the first time he ate solid food. All these amazing and yet simple accomplishments have happened right before my eyes and I'll always remember them. Thank you Gil for working so hard. I know your job isn't easy and that it takes a tole on you in more than one way but we really appreciate it and love you more than words can express. You are the best dad and husband ever!

I have a wonderful extended family who help my family when ever we need it. They are always there for us and I love them so so much. My family has a tradition that I really do cherish...we all (parents and sibs) get together at one of my sisters houses every Sunday and have family dinner and talk and catch up on things. It's a wonderful tradition that I will always treasure.

My calling as the YW Secretary isn't much but I am so grateful and thankful for everyone that I have associated with my calling. The girls teach me so much and keep me young and in the loop with the "hip" or "in things". They also keep me on my toes. I have awesome leaders that I work with too! They are the most hardworking, self sacrificing and loving women that I know. Always looking out for each other. It's nice to know that I have them to depend on.

And last but certainly not least, I am grateful for my Father in Heaven who makes this all possible. He has truly given me all that I wanted and more. I know he has my best interest and that I have been given challenges and trials to make me stronger or to learn from as well as numerous blessings to know he loves me.

I hope that we can all take the time this year to reflect upon what really matters and all the wonderful blessings we've had throughout this year. May you all be blessed with the love of our Father in Heaven and always be grateful for His Son Jesus Christ and what he has done for us. May we all strive to be more giving, loving and forgiving as Christ has been with us. I love you all and am grateful to have each of you in my life. Have a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

Love, Keli