…my family.
In honor of the Christmas season I thought that I’d create an exercise for myself–an exercise in gratitude. So often I get caught up with everything I’m doing; my work on my blog, my little ones, what to make for dinner, that I forget to be grateful. Our Savior has done so much for us and given infinitely to us that I feel I need to be better at being grateful for the things I have been given. So, today I am thankful for my family! I am thankful for the family I have come from and the family I am now a part of.
The family I came from
This is everyone (minus my dad and stepmom who are in a different picture) plus 2 in-laws, 2 nieces, and 3 nephews.
I grew up in a full house. I have six sisters and five brothers, and to answer the most frequently asked question of my youth, yes, they are all from same mom and dad. I always had a friend to play with, a sister to talk to, and a baby to care for (I was 16 when my youngest brother was born). Our family has had it’s ups and downs over the years but I am so grateful when I see the resilience that young ones are blessed with. I am thankful for the loving relationships I have with all of my brothers and sisters.
The family I’m now a part of
Now that’s a lot of people. There are so many of us you can barely make out our faces. 🙂
I am so thankful that I married into such a wonderful family and that I truly feel like I belong. We always have such an awesome time when everyone is together! I have wonderful In-laws who treat me like a daughter and sister.
My own little family
I have been blessed with such a devoted, hard working, intelligent, and sensitive husband. He is a wonderful husband and father. We have been blessed with two wonderful boys who keep us smiling, laughing, and occasionally make us want to tear our hair out.
I know that everyone’s family situation is different, but whatever the situation we are in we can find opportunities to learn and grow from our experiences. We can learn to recognize our blessings and express gratitude for all that we’ve been given. I find that when I do that I realize how very much I have.

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