“But the freedom that they fought for, and the country grand they wrought for, Is their monument to-day, and for aye.” -Thomas Dunn English My heart-felt thanks and deepest gratitude for all of the men and women who have served and are currently serving.  May God continue to bless and protect our military and their families!

Many thanks today for: my safe teenage drivers. Bri’s homemade chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven. good conversation at Moms group this morning. the color blue.  It’s my favorite. the United States Marine Corps.  Today is their birthday.  I sure feel safe knowing they are on the job. snuggle time on the couch with my hubby. Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree. ~Emily Bronte

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body.  And be thankful.” ~Colossians 3:15 Thankful today… for time to catch up on housework. for the music of Il Divo.  I could listen to them for hours- even though they are singing in a foreign language that I don’t understand very well.  They could sing names out of the phone book and I would love it!  for positive student-led conferences at school.  Both girls had excellent grades and set some good goals for this next quarter. for my faithful companions that

“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes of which all men have some.” ~Charles Dickens Some of today’s blessings: – a pain-free visit to the dentist! – a reminder from my husband that he prays for me throughout the day. – uninterrupted time to prepare my lesson for Bible study. – bright sunshine as I worked in the yard this afternoon. – lots of laughter while making dinner and hanging out with my girls. – the first win of the season for David’s middle school basketball team! – bright moonlight shining down

… when I heard little children giggling as they discovered something new. … while making dinner with Hope. … as I listened to Brianna play the piano. … while I whispered a prayer of thanksgiving for all of the hours of piano lessons and practicing that Brianna has done. … as I sat in my comfy chair and watched “Dancing With the Stars.” … when I noticed Baxter snuggled in between Hope and Bri and all of their homework stuff (books, notebooks, laptop) on the couch.  He is quite persistent! … when I heard the garage door opening and realized that David was