A lot to be thankful for....

Another Thanksgiving has arrived and is coming to a close. I must admit, I have never really sat down and "documented" what I am thankful for. Although when nice things happen to me, I always say "Thank You" and "I appreciate that" or "That was so thoughtful." And when I really stop and think about the little things that are in my life that bring me happiness - it is a little overwhelming.

First and foremost, I have the most amazing, loving family. My hubby is wonderful (although every once in a while I like to gripe about him -LOL)!!! He works so hard to provide for our family - and will give the shirt off of his back for a friend in need. He is the most awesome daddy and would do anything for his son. He is so supportive of me - and even though I can be a little dramatic at times - he is always there to hold my hand (or put me back in my place) when needed! I love that about him! He rocks!

And my son Ty. Wow....what can I say. The love of a child is the best gift anyone can have. He is so innocent, so spontanious, and keeps me on my toes. I am so thankful for his health, smiles, the pitter patter of his feet running down the hallway, when he asks me where the sunshine is when it's a cloudy day, how excited he gets when I tell him he can go wake daddy up, how he says "I love you MORE," how he shares toys & food with his dog, how much he loves sports, all the baseball players names he knows, how he calls me his girlfriend, how much he likes donuts, how he tells me "mommy, hold you" (which means he wants me to hold him), and when he gives me the biggest hugs in the world.

There are so many more things I could share....but these popped out at me as I was typing. I am so thankful to have these moments with him.

I am also blessed with the most amazing friends. I truly believe God brings people into our lives for a purpose - and I am truly surrounded by the most caring, trusting, and loving friends ever.

And I am so thankful for my photography business. Again.....I truly believe God has sent people to have their pictures taken with me for a reason. Every person, every family, every situation, has a story. And whether it be a baby's newborn picture, a baby's 1st birthday, or the first time an extended family has been together in years, or it's time for the family to have a picture because they haven't done it in forever, or a new daddy is getting sent to Iraq to serve our wonderful country.........it's sooooo important to record the "here and now." We can never go back and get those moments again. I keep thinking about that song by Kenny Chesney called "Don't Blink" (it's on my playlist if you want to hear it). The message behind that song is that you better enjoy every little thing about your children....because before you know it....they will be all grown up. So when I take pictures of your children, your family, or your senior high schooler......I can promise you that those thoughts are going through my head. Because what I am giving you are more than just pictures.....they are memories......to be shared for generations, upon generations to come. So I am thankful that God has blessed me with the emotion that I carry with me behind the lens.

Please take time to stop and smell the roses......be thankful for the little things in your life.......don't be quick to judge........don't sweat the small stuff (it's just stuff!!!!).....always extend your hand, because you may be picking someone up who needs help.....give to those less fortunate.....and remember to always say I love you to your friends and family.....you never know if it could be your last chance.....do something nice for someone, and don't ask for anything in return - only ask that person to pay it forward to someone else.....let the circle of love grow.

Happy Thanksgiving! Thank YOU for being a part of my life! And thank you for reading this post!

Brandi :)