Yesssss, I am still here

I just haven't had anything interesting or useful to say lately. Part of this is because we have been busy (although I have to use this term carefully..."busy" now means something entirely different than when I was working...now "busy"means running a lot of errands, H having a cold, or maybe going on a trip. Basically busy in a different way than before) Anyhow, we have been gone a lot, but mostly, I just haven't felt very inspired.

I can't believe I missed the entire month of November here. Oh well. Time to get back on the horse.

But, since it was just Thanksgiving, I really do want to mention what I am so, so grateful for:

1. That my son is healthy-- I pray every night for this. Yes, my newfound (or I guess, rediscovered) spirituality surprises me sometimes, but I am so thankful for my son, I feel I need to thank God daily that he is healthy. I know so many who aren't-- I simply can't imagine the pain and horror. I fear that this could change in an instant. When he was first born, I would check on him upwards of ten times a night, terrifed he would die of SIDS in the middle of the night. I am so grateful he hasn't, and I also understand that all the worrying really isn't going to stop or prevent the truly awful things in life from sneaking up on us when we least expect them. So I am thankful now.

2. That all of my basic needs (and those of my family) are met, without worry or question. I know each day that I will have more than enough food, a roof over my head, gas in my car, health insurance, and really, anything more we could really NEED. Again, I know plenty who do not.

3. That I have such a wonderful husband- yes, we drive each other crazy sometimes, but he is my life partner, and for this I am so, so thankful.

4. That I have such a fantastic, supportive group of friends. They really are my family-- I don't have sisters, but my friends really are sisters to me. And I am so lucky. I am so lucky to be blessed with such fun, smart, dynamic women in my life.



On a different note, we have been traveling a bit, meaning I have been out of my little cocoon here, and I note the whole "stay at home mom" thing isn't as well received it is here in my world. Many of my friends stay home with their kids full time. Apparently, this is viewed negatively elsewhere. We have been vistiting family and friends and during these times I am frequently asked something along the lines of, "Don't you feel like you are wasting all those years of education? Don't you think your brain will turn to mush? Don't you think you might sprout horns? "(OK, not really on that one) I realized that I need to just get over this-- it really isn't important in the least what other people think, only that I am happy and content with my life and choices. I realize I would rather do one thing and enjoy it in a relaxed manner than try to do several things (work, take care of my kids) and be stressed out. Don't get me wrong, I am not criticizing those who chose NOT to stay home-- I think we all just need to do what works for us and stop questioning others.

I do have a few more thoughts, but family calls. Back soon, less than 6 weeks this time...