Thankfulness

At times I've wanted to share my deepest thoughts on here but I realize that some of them, no matter how pleasant, are meant for me to store away in my heart. That being said, and it being the time for Thanksgiving, I undoubtedly need to share how grateful I am to be a mother. I've wanted nothing more in life than to have a family and raise children. If I'm granted the chance to grow old in a relatively healthy state of mind, I know I'll reflect on my years as a mother and decide these were the happiest, so it's extra important that I strive to do my best . . .

I love children in general -- their innocence, enthusiasm for life, and the fact they just want to be loved and nothing more. To be entrusted with a child's life, is such an amazing responsibility. I pray I never take it for granted.

I realize I don't always know what is best, so it is my hope and prayer to be a facilitator in Vanessa's life -- to provide her with all the unconditional love and support I can so she can live a happy and fruitful life. I pray I can always be there to pick her up when she falls and to encourage her to try again. I pray I will allow Vanessa to live her own life and not mine. I pray that I can set a good example for her and that she'll learn to ultimately rely on God for everything.

For whatever amount of time God is allowing me this wonderful gift, I pray to always remain thankful for the unexplainable blessing Vanessa is.

May not seem an appropriate picture, but it represents Vanessa's radiant personality . . . and it makes me smile . . .