Thoughts and Blessings

I really feel like I need to take a minute and remember all that I am blessed with (well, maybe not ALL cause that would take a really long time). There are just some days that I get distracted with the "world" and other things that just make me feel lousy but really shouldn't. I know that I'm not the cutest pregnant lady out there. And I'm not just saying that to get sympathy...it's just the truth. I retain water A LOT which results in puffy hands, feet, and my personal favorite, face. And when people tell me I look ready to "pop any day" when I still have 11 weeks to go just doesn't help too much =). But, seriously, what is all that when it compares to that fact that my little growing baby Claire (I'm determined to name her this so I'm calling her that until Peter is 100% on board =)) is healthy and strong? NOTHING!! I don't care how puffy I get. And let's be honest, if  I'm wanting 6 kids close together in age I may be puffy for the next 5 years or so, which will be so worth it. This pregnancy has been my easiest so far. I've thrown up once. That's it. I've kept my gestational diabetes under control this time, knowing it was very likely I'd have it again, no bouts with Bell's Palsy, my skin disorder has stayed hibernating, and I was able to get my knee fixed before my pregnancy by a brilliant surgeon so I can actually exercise to help with everything else and play with my very active girls. 

I have a husband that is loving, faithful, spiritual, hardworking, and helpful. He never complains when I ask for a favor, or when I tell him I need to put my feet up. In fact, he usually comes over and rubs the swelling out of my feet and ankles when ever I put them up. And despite my puffiness, he tells me I'm beautiful every day, whether I feel it or not. He's studying hard for his GRE and will be taking it in the next month or so (if you feel like sending a prayer up for him sometime we wouldn't say no =)) and I know that he's excited to get started on the next step for his education. 

I have two adorable little girls that I just can't get enough of. Their imaginations are amazing! How they can turn the cupboard under our sink into their "house" and then the next minute they're both dogs playing fetch. Haha! No matter how hard a day is, they can always, always, always put a smile on my face and make things look a lot better. 

I realize this is probably not the funnest read, but I needed to put my thoughts on paper. I needed to have a written reminder to tell me that what the "world" thinks, doesn't matter. I am blessed. I am loved. And I know I am living the way that is meant for me and for my family. I know having kids so close together may seem crazy to a lot of people, but we know this is what is right for us. The thing I am most blessed with is knowing I have a Heavenly Father who loves me and it constantly watching over me, and knowing I have a Savior, who willingly chose to suffer so that He can always be someone I can turn to for empathy and support when I feel alone or misunderstood. That knowledge is priceless. 

And here are some pictures to smile at =)

In their "house"

Olivia being Angus...that's my brother's dog

Tea party...seriously how cute?!

"Cheers!"

Living in the upstairs apartment makes for hot afternoons...but Jane makes the most of them

Decorating cookies on a hot day