Just a quick thank you

Maybe it is because it is Sunday morning and we didn't go to church. Maybe it's because I just watched the news (it comes on in the mornings here b/c of the time difference) and the stories of people on there are so depressing sometimes. Perhaps it is because I was just reading the blog of a family who lost their little girl and have another friend who is going to a funeral today...don't know what it is, but it made me take a moment to stop and reflect on my own life. I just wanted to say how very thankful, grateful and blessed I feel.

I have the family I have always dreamed of- a husband who loves me so much, takes care of me and supports me both monetarily and emotionally. He got up this morning and made cinnamon pecan pancakes, hashbrowns and eggs...just because! I have a beautiful, adorable, sweet 8 month old daughter who makes me smile every minute of every day. She is sitting on the floor in front of me as I type this, entertaining herself with a book (in her mouth- not reading it) and just laughing. I still am amazed she's mine, and I couldn't love her more if I tried. I have a dog and cat who are sweet and cuddly (even if I do occasionally have to clean up their messes). I have an extended family- parents, brother, grandparents (3 of 4 still alive and doing great), in-laws- who are all wonderful and loving and caring and supportive.

I have the opportunity to live in a foreign country and see and do sooo many things here. The culture and sights and sounds of Japan are incredible and to get the opportunity to see and visit many parts of Asia is something a lot of people will never get a chance to do. I have also gotten to travel to many other parts of the world in my life.

I am a citizen of an amazing country as well, despite it's problems, and I am so very proud to be married to a man who defends that country for a living. I do wish that the USA was a bit closer :) but I am so proud to call myself an American.

I have many, many friends around the world who are there for me no matter what and love me for being me. I am astounded when I pull up my email list of "friends" and it is multiple pages long!

Maybe I'm just in a sappy mood, but I just wanted to stop for a minute and write about how richly blessed my life truly is. If you are reading this, then you are surely part of the reason why. Hopefully you feel just as blessed to be a part of my life and will stop for a minute and reflect on all your own blessings in life. I'm off to go play with my daughter, hug my hubby, brush my dog, plant flowers in my yard...all the little things that make life great!