Giving thanks today for...

Princess - dad taking the day off because we were able to spend time with him.

Rosebud - getting some rain today because we haven't gotten rain in a really long time and it was nice to have some.

Stinkbug - today because it was a wonderful day.

Sugarcake - watching TV because I didn't really get to watch much TV today and I tried really hard to watch TV.

ThereO - my husband taking the day off of work because it was nice to just have a quiet family day.

HBD - a beautiful wife and healthy kids that act like kids.

OFE - finally getting all the mulch on everything I wanted to get mulch on.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my mom cutting my nests out because I no longer have to deal with them and they've been a pain.

Rosebud - soccer practice because I haven't played soccer in a really long time and it was weird playing.

Stinkbug - playing hockey with Sugarcake this morning because we have so much fun.

Sugarcake - getting my haircut tomorrow because I haven't cut it in a very long time and I'm really glad I'm getting one.

ThereO - some insight into some things I haven't been happy with myself about lately.

HBD - good weather today to go hit golf balls because it's been a long time since I've done that and I really enjoyed it.

OFE - Fr. Sedita being so nice to us today at the St. Joseph's table and we got to see my old boss and visit with him and his wife.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my mom signing me up for the garden project because we learn how to take care of vegetables and fruit and it goes to charity.

Rosebud - my braces not hurting me anymore because I was scared they were going to be hurting for a long time.

Stinkbug - having grilled cheese because it is an awesome type of food and it's really yummy and I love eating at home.

Sugarcake - the SIMPLE word because it is all different things and it has and S for Stars and an M for Melanie.

ThereO - fun projects that I can work on and make something special and creative.

HBD - getting stuff in the yard done.

OFE - getting all the mulch put on the flower beds because it's a big job and it's done.

Giving thanks today (3-17-09) for...

Princess - my mom letting M & M come over yesterday because I had one of the most fun days and that was so nice and cool of my mom to do that for me.

Rosebud - YouTube because you get to listen to things that you don't have CD's for and watch videos.

Stinkbug - going to the homeschool store because we had a lot of fun and we played basketball and I don't know why everyone was pinching me because I had green braces but it was lots of fun.

Sugarcake - getting Curious because he is so cute and I really like him being in my family.

ThereO - a new homeschooling friend with girls the same ages as my girls because it is nice to have someone to talk to about the struggles (and joys) of homeschooling.

HBD - pizza and hockey.

OFE - the doctor freezing some spots that have been bothering me.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my mom taking me to Aeropostale and Hobby Lobby because that was very nice of her to spend her time doing that and she's a cool mom for taking us those places.

Rosebud - the library because you can read books but you don't have to pay for them.

Stinkbug - water because it helps you not get dehydrated.

Sugarcake - getting to get my nest out because I will have beautiful hair and I don't have to wear my hair up and it is just the best time when I don't have to wear my hair up.

ThereO - my husband hanging the pictures I've been wanting to get up on the wall.

HBD - having dinner out with my family and getting some pictures hung.

OFE - getting some more mulch on the rose beds and some other things like that done.

Giving thanks today (3-15-09) for...

Princess - being able to stay home all day because it was really nice outside.

Rosebud - having a nice quiet day at home because it was nice not getting out and doing anything.

Stinkbug - doing nothing because all you do is just sit down and do whatever you want.

Sugarcake - going to Target with my dad because me and daddy got to spend some time together because I didn't get to ask for anything because it was my money so I didn't have to ask anyone to buy it for me.

ThereO - a good talk with my husband because it made me feel better about a lot of things.

HBD - a nice quiet day at home, reading and relaxing.

OFE - getting more rain, we got so much I had to cut the automatic water off.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - the Stars winning because it will probably increase their chances of going to the play-offs.

Rosebud - the Stars winning because it is fun to see them win.

Stinkbug - me and mom to have our time together and the Stars winning because it is awesome to have time with my mom and build things together out of wood and it gives me a good feeling of being able to do those things when I am older and for the Stars winning it is awesome when they win and I'm so glad for Grossman scoring another goal because that makes 2 goals and it is so awesome because it makes them go higher and higher.

Sugarcake - getting to have a sleepover with the girls because it is very nice of them and we haven't gotten to do it in a long time.

ThereO - Grossman getting a goal because it is so fun to see him excited and because it was the game winner.

HBD - Grossman getting the game winning goal in the Stars game.

OFE - going to church.

Giving thanks today (3-13-09) for...

Princess - my mom taking me to the PEACH party because it gave me a chance to meet people that were really really nice and I had a very fun time.

Rosebud - the bank field trip because it was so cool and so much fun and we got to see the vaults and the tellers and stuff like that.

Stinkbug - the crosses on the wall because they are so pretty and one of them tells you about a story of God and the staircase that wasn't even made out of nails... that's pretty cool.

Sugarcake - getting my book so I can learn about reading.

ThereO - being able to take my own children on a field trip because by homeschooling I get to experience those things with them and answer their questions and "see" their learning.

HBD - the rain we've been getting because we've really needed it.

OFE - it rained finally.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - having a good day because I was able to do a lot of school work and help out my mom.

Rosebud - my room being clean because it is so nice to have a clean room and not have to push everything out of the way.

Stinkbug - me and Sugarcake being able to have fun.

Sugarcake - me and Stinkbug having so much fun because it is so much fun.

ThereO - finding my Stars necklace because I thought it was lost.

HBD - coming home early and the supper my wonderful wife fixed for us.

OFE - being somewhere that is plentiful with crawfish and that I got to go to the rose club meeting tonight and seeing some good friends, especially our friends from Beaumont.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my mom homeschooling me because it is going to be one of the greatest things she has ever done for me.

Rosebud - vitamin water because it is so good and it is a lot better than soda.

Stinkbug - Neal joining the hockey team because he's made lots of goals and helped the team a lot to win and I like him a lot and that's good that he's played really good this season.

Sugarcake - mommy having a sleepover with me last weekend because we had very fun and we got to watch a movie and I got to stay with my mommy.

ThereO - the rain because it was a welcome relief and our yard desperately needed it and it was so nice just to stay in today and watch the rain.

HBD - coming home early so I could just chill with my family.

OFE - Rene helping me pick up some leaves to go on the roses and then today Butch brought us some more leaves so now we have plenty of leaves.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my room being clean because it feels so awesome.

Rosebud - my dad because of all the wonderful things he does for me and he's such a great dad to have.

Stinkbug - getting my Spiderman done because it makes me feel proud of myself by doing that.

Sugarcake - getting my hockey stuff out and trying it on because I really like my hockey gear.

ThereO - getting the photos organized because I've been wanting to work on scrapbooks and now I feel like I can get started on that.

HBD - baking with my wife.

OFE - getting all the leaves and stuff together for the mulch because when we are done with that then most of the big work for the rose garden is done.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - True Jackson, VP because it makes me laugh and I enjoy watching it with my siblings.

Rosebud - my pictures getting loaded onto my laptop today because now I don't have to look at them on my screen on my camera and I can set them as my background.

Stinkbug - getting all my Stars stuff because of mom because she is the most wonderful mom you could ever have and since she couldn't get my name up on the screen it was nice of her to get the Stars to send me that stuff with the player cards and Neal signed his.

Sugarcake - playing with my dollhouse because I get to have some fun and it really supports me.

ThereO - getting the garage finished because there is actually room out there to get things done now and I can get to my projects to work on them.

HBD - a nice quiet day at home with my family.

OFE - Tony getting the leak fixed on the car because it has been giving us problems.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - the Stars winning last night because we were all able to spend time together while watching it and it bumped them up and I am so happy and it makes my mom happy.
Rosebud - having a safe trip home.
Stinkbug - them coming home because I get to see them now and learn all about California.
Sugarcake - my notebook because I love it a lot.
ThereO - Rosebud and HBD making it home safely because I worry whenever anyone is away.
HBD - getting home safely.
OFE - not being sore today after hitting golf balls.

Giving thanks today (3-6-09) for...

Princess - everything my mom did because it was so wonderful and she was so, so nice to do that for us and we had a great time spending time together.
Rosebud - the architecture tour because we got to see the Spanish style, the European style, and the French chateau.
Stinkbug - getting my wig because it is awesome, everybody laughs at me, and it is really cool that I get to wear this.
Sugarcake - getting my hockey gear because I'm so excited and my coach will be too.
ThereO - having a good day with the children because it was nice to spend time with them and not be worried about to do lists.
HBD - the beautiful architecture that Rosebud and I saw throughout the day.
OFE - being able to go shoot some golf balls.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - today because it was one of the best days I've had in a really, really long time, it is Rosebud's birthday and hopefully the Stars will win tonight.

Rosebud - having my best birthday ever because I got to go to LA and me and dad had an awesome time and did a bunch of fun things.

Stinkbug - being able to paint because it is awesome, it helps you learn more about art and it is awesome to do and you get a lot of experience and you get better and better.

Sugarcake - having a sleepover with Princess because we get to spend some time and we get to watch a movie and my mommy was nice to us for letting us do it.

ThereO - Rosebud enjoying her birthday because that is a true pleasure for me to know she is having a great time.

HBD - a safe trip for Rosebud and I.

OFE - getting some work done in the yard that I've been wanting to do.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my mom being honest with me because we were able to straighten a lot of things out.

Rosebud - being able to go to LA on my birthday with my dad because I get to spend time with him and I get to go to a Stars game and a bunch of other fun stuff.

Stinkbug - Coach Mike saying I can be on a team because it is awesome and it makes me have a lot more experience with hockey and I get to play with older guys and it is really fun and maybe I'll score a lot of goals.

Sugarcake - the garden because I get to meet new friends and it is a part of our school and it is a lot of fun.

ThereO - being able to work things out with Princess because it really upsets me when things aren't on the right path with one of my children.

HBD - my wonderful wife who is so supportive of me taking the kids on special trips because it takes a special wife to be supportive of things like that.

OFE - being able to take the car in to the mechanic and he was able to find the leak.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Sonny with a Chance because it makes me laugh.

Rosebud - for Dominos because their pizza is very good.

Stinkbug - Grand Theft Auto because it is a fun and funny game.

Sugarcake - being in Hockey 101 because I am so excited and get to make new friends and play with a lot of people and I'll get a package and it will have a lot of gear in it.

ThereO - HBD having safe travels because it's nice to have him home.

HBD - a safe trip to and from Amarillo and seeing Aunt Sugar.

OFE - getting my laptop working without too much difficulty.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Mrs. Denise paying me so much because even though they are going through rough financial matters I think it is very nice that she thinks I deserve that much.

Rosebud - playstation because it is fun to play.

Stinkbug - fire because it makes you so warm and it really comforts you when you are really cold.

Sugarcake - the beautiful stars because they are so very beautiful and they light up the sky.

ThereO - homeschooling because not only does it give me lots of time with my children but we are able to experience lots of things we wouldn't get to do if they were in school.

HBD - my Uncle Roy because he was a nice uncle.

OFE - finding out where the water leak is coming from on our car so I can call and talk to the mechanic and hopefully he can fix it.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Kristin bringing stuff for us to do when she babysits because that is very nice of her to spend her time and money getting stuff for us to do.

Rosebud - Babe's because it is very good.

Stinkbug - my hockey classes because they are awesome and you learn about hockey.

Sugarcake - my mom because she's very nice and she takes care of me.

ThereO - a great babysitter so that HBD and I could have a much needed "date."

HBD - a date with my wife.

OFE - the cold weather because it kept me from doing stuff I had to do.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - being able to stay home all day because it gave us a chance to relax from an eventful week.

Rosebud - Sister Schubert rolls because they are soooo good.

Stinkbug - building my bionicle because it is awesome and you can experience the stuff of building.

Sugarcake - being a superhero because I get to have fun and I get to play with Stinkbug.

ThereO - being able to take a nap because I wasn't feeling good earlier and the nap seemed to help me feel a little better.

HBD - a somewhat relaxing day at home with my family and a good book.

OFE - getting fertilizer on the roses.

Giving thanks today (2-27-09) for...

Princess - for my mom taking us to Sam Moon and to see the Stars practice because that was very, very nice of her to take us there and we had billions of fun.

Rosebud - my mom helping me find a bag that I really like because I really like it and now I don't have to carry a Target bag.

Stinkbug - going see the Stars because I got to get Neal's autograph and I got to watch them practice and that makes them better.

Sugarcake - Grossman throwing me a puck because he's the sweetest and the cutest and he's my favorite.

ThereO - seeing the Stars practice because watching them is how I learned to "live in the moment" so seeing them practice reminds me of how far I've come with that.

HBD - the wonderful supper my wife fixed for us because it was so tasty.

OFE - OFR getting medicine to help her get better.

Giving thanks today (2-26-09) for...

Princess - staying home with Stinkbug because we were able to spend time together.

Rosebud - going to the Stars game because it was very fun and I had a very good time.

Stinkbug - y'all having fun at the Stars game because y'all had some fun family time at the game.

Sugarcake - mommy taking me to the game because the tickets were free and because we all had a fun time and mommy and daddy had a fun time.

ThereO - being able to go to the Stars game with free tickets because going to games is one of my very favorite things to do and going for free makes it even better.

HBD - Princess and Stinkbug doing a good job while we were gone.

OFE - it not taking a long time at the dealership for getting the car fixed.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - the gardening club because it was nice to meet new people and we get to learn about gardening.

Rosebud - being able to go to the Stars game because I like being able to do things with my family.

Stinkbug - beds because you get to sleep and they are fun to play with your animals in.

Sugarcake - my mommy loving me because that is so nice of her and she is the nicest.

ThereO - the gardening group because it was so nice for the kids to meet other homeschoolers, be able learn about gardening organically and the produce goes to food banks.

HBD - good books that bring such odd pleasure.

OFE - not doing too much but we did go to church and got our ashes.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my shoulder healing quickly because I'm able to clean for my mom.

Rosebud - HGTV showdown because they are very cool and it is fun to watch.

Stinkbug - my daddy helping me to do all the stuff that I want to do because he is really good at those things and he does it way better than me.

Sugarcake - Emma's mom buying me a candy bar because it's yummy and she bought it for me for $1 which is cheap.

ThereO - my husband coming home early to work on the garage door  because when things stop working, I get stressed.

HBD - my wife cooking us a nice meal so we could eat at home.

OFE - being in a good mood.

Giving thanks today (2-23-09) for...

Princess - my mom and dad taking me to the Stars game because even though we had some difficulties it was nice of my mom to get us tickets because we have a lot of fun when we are there.

Rosebud - my mom and dad taking me to the Stars game because it was so much fun and I had a very good time.

Stinkbug - being on tv because it was really cool and they showed me for a long time and everybody saw me except for my family.

Sugarcake - Morrow because he was a great player and I'm sorry for Rosebud that his knee got hurt.

ThereO - Daley throwing Sugarcake a puck because I'm glad to see that he has turned into a really nice guy and that was very special of him to do that.

HBD - us going to the game.

OFE - being able to spray the roses today.

Giving thanks today (2-22-09) for...

Princess - my mom and dad driving me around everywhere because that was very nice of them to use their time to take me where I needed to go.

Rosebud - Aunt B. and Uncle C. making us dinner because it was nice of them to cook us supper and it was nice of them to invite us over.

Stinkbug - Aunt B. and Uncle C. because I love it when they do stuff for us and they had a party for me and all the other February birthdays.

Sugarcake - Julie because she is very nice and she always likes to do stuff with me and I don't know if she let me win on pool.

ThereO - the family giving Stinkbug some presents for his birthday because that was very nice of them to do.

HBD - B. and C. inviting us to dinner because it was nice of them to include Stinkbug in the party.

OFE - not having to pay $9 per pound for crawfish.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - making my blanket because it was fun and when I get older I can make blankets for others.
Rosebud - the supper mom made because it was so good and you usually don't ever make a meal like that.
Stinkbug - having a dad because he takes care of you and he's really special and he does a lot of stuff for you and he loves you.
Sugarcake - school because it is fun and you get to learn stuff.
ThereO - the ability, time, and money to make a meal that all of my family really enjoys.
HBD - that wonderful supper that you fixed for us because it was just wonderful.
OFE - the rose club coming over and pruning our rose bushes.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Dad picking me up from dance because it gave us a chance to spend some time together.

Rosebud - getting my room cleaned because it feels very good to have a clean room and I like it when I am able to get my room clean.

Stinkbug - the library because it gives you books to read and you get smarter and books are really fun to read.

Sugarcake - the Stars because they are happy and the most wonderful team.

ThereO - watching Stinkbug and Rosebud work together on a project without having a problem.

HBD - a somewhat quiet evening of reading and relaxing.

OFE - feeling better today than I did yesterday.

Giving thanks today (2-19-09) for...

Princess - my mom and dad taking me to the Stars game because it was one of the best nights ever, we had really great seats and it was a lot, a lot of fun.

Rosebud - going to the Stars game because it was very fun and I had a very good time.

Stinkbug - the Stars game because it was really fun, I got to have ice cream, they won 4-2, Sugarcake was on TV, and it was one of the best games.

Sugarcake - being on TV because it was so fun and people got to see me.

ThereO - Sugarcake saying that she was sweet because I am the best mom ever because that is something I think every mom wants to hear.

HBD - all of us going to the game because it was a great family outing and a fun time for our family.

OFE - my pain not getting any worse than it was.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - the dentist because they help me keep my teeth healthy and they help me have a very nice smile which I love.

Rosebud - hockey because it is fun to watch.

Stinkbug - Fred because he is really funny and he makes everybody laugh and I'm glad he started making videos.

Sugarcake - calendars because they tell you what day it is and all the time it tells you to get together with your friends.

ThereO - my crockpot because it makes fixing a nutritious meal very easy.

HBD - hot showers because they make me clean and they relax me.

OFE - finding a part for my lawn mower and that I didn't have to have any help to find it.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - mom and dad fixing supper at home because we don't spend as much money going out, we get to spend more family time because we don't get home so late, and it was very nice to have a healthy meal.

Rosebud - my finger closing because I didn't have to get stitches and it is not hurting as much as it did yesterday.

Stinkbug - my toothbrush because it makes your teeth clean.

Sugarcake - Valentine's Day because all get a time to share and care about each other and we all get a time to love each other.

ThereO - getting the grocery shopping done because it makes me feel good to have good food in the house for our family.

HBD - a wonderful homemade supper because it was nice to eat a healthy meal at home.

OFE - getting the weedeater working because it wasn't hard but it took some time.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - being able to babysit because I am able to earn money that can be helpful for dance camp and things like that.

Rosebud - Mom helping me with my finger because if she didn't then it wouldn't have healed very good and I would have had to get stitches.

Stinkbug - my bed because I can sleep in it and it keeps me warm.

Sugarcake - my hair because I like it and it is pretty.

ThereO - Stinkbug's creativity because it is really amazing to see some of the things he creates.

HBD - a nice quiet evening of pizza and hockey because it was nice for us all to be back together again eating pizza and watching hockey.

OFE - Rosebud feeling better and not having fever today because I was worried about her.

Giving thanks today (2-15-09) for...

Princess - my mom taking me to the Revolve Tour because it was the best concert I've ever been to, the testimonies were incredible, and I loved spending time with my mom.

Rosebud - all of us having a safe trip home.

Stinkbug - going to Chicago because Chicago is an awesome place and I didn't want to leave and Chicago has really awesome food and I like Chicago style pizza.

Sugarcake - the refrigerator because it has food in there and you can eat stuff out of it.

ThereO - everyone making it home safely and having a wonderful time while they were gone.

HBD - getting home safely from our trip and for everyone else getting home safely from their trip.

OFE - everyone getting home safely.

Due to some illnesses and a trip out of town we missed a week of the thankful project.  That week will be tacked on to the end of the project in December.

Thankfully,

ThereO

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my mom and dad being able to go to the Stars game because I know it was nice for them to get out and the Stars won and it was nice to see them having a good time without a bunch of kids.

Rosebud - being able to chew again because I was worried about not being able to eat.

Stinkbug - the Stars win because it was an awesome game.

Sugarcake - for my mom talking to me on the phone to help me feel better because I was throwing up and she made me feel better.

ThereO - my oldest doing such a good job of babysitting her sisters because I know how stressful it is when someone throws up and she was very mature in calling to find out what to do.

HBD - getting to go to the Stars game because it was an awesome game.

OFE - it being Sunday because it's my day off.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Children's Motrin because it made Sugarcake feel better.

Rosebud - Christian music because it's music about Jesus and I love to listen to it.

Stinkbug - water because it helps you grow and it's really good for you.

Sugarcake - pillows because they make your head feel really comfortable and they are warm.

ThereO - getting the homeschool materials organized because I feel like now I can not only get to stuff but I know where to look to get to it.

HBD - all the stuff we got done out in the garage because we are one step closer to getting more stuff done.

OFE - being able to go to church because it something I really enjoy.

Giving thanks today (2-6-09) for...

Princess - Chamberlain because I am able to do the thing that I love and learn more about dance.

Rosebud - the Stars winning 10-2 because it is so cool that they won by that much.

Stinkbug - the thankful project because it is awesome, it helps you remember your times that you like, and if you forget then you can just check.

Sugarcake - sweatshirts because they keep me warm and comfortable.

ThereO - for the huge Stars win because watching them win just makes me happy.

HBD - the Stars big 10 goal win because it was awesome.

OFE - pruning some miniatures because it feels good to get some things done.

Giving thanks today (2-5-09) for...

Princess - babysitting Ainslee because I make good money and she makes my day.

Rosebud - Princess letting me come over while she was babysitting because it was fun to go see her and she's so sweet.

Stinkbug - Burt's Bees because if you have a huge rash it will go away in two days like Sugarcake and it is really good for your lips like for me.

Sugarcake - movies because they are really good and they are really fun to watch.

ThereO - for Rosebud getting her braces because I know that even though it is really painful for her now that when she is older she will be very thankful she did it now.

HBD - that the weekend is almost here because I had a long week and I needed a nice weekend.

OFE - the beautiful sunshine today because it sure was pretty.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my mom taking me to Joann's because that was really really nice of her and I got to get materials for the first dress I'm going to make and I've already started it and now I want to make a million of them and I thank her for that.

Rosebud - my pictures not being messed up because it's the 3rd time we've had to go down there.

Stinkbug - God because he made all the wonderful things in the world and if he didn't make all these things then I wouldn't have Buddy and my laptop and then we wouldn't have anything, just our lives and that's why he is so special to us.

Sugarcake - my rash going away because it feels really good not having a rash and your arm doesn't even hurt.

ThereO - my daughter finding such joy in sewing because it is something I dearly love and it makes me happy that we can share that joy.

HBD - getting a lot accomplished in the garage this weekend because it gets us one step closer to getting where we need to be to get things done.

OFE - going out to eat tonight at Steamboat Bill's because it was really good.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - this pool table because I am able to spend time with my brother.

Rosebud - going to Babe's tonight because it is so good and it is one of my favorite restaurants.

Stinkbug - E and A for giving me the pool table because I can spend lots of time with my sisters and I'm so glad I was in their wedding so I could get this.

Sugarcake - playing with Stinkbug because he is the best brother and he is the nicest.

ThereO - Paperbackswap because it is a lot of fun to send out books I no longer want and get books that we all want.

HBD - a nice dinner out with my family because I enjoy being with my family more than anything in the world.

OFE - went to the doctor today and got a good report that he doesn't need to see me for another 3 months.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - cleaning because I'm able to show appreciation to my mom for bringing me into the world and for giving me all the things she has.

Rosebud - being able to put my earrings in myself tonight because mom always has to do it and it doesn't hurt when I do it.

Stinkbug - my pool table because it is really fun and I know it is a little small but it is awesome and my dad is helping me put it together and without him, I wouldn't be able to do things like this.

Sugarcake - Stinkbug's pool table because it's fun to play and you can have a really fun time playing it.

ThereO - my medicine because I would really be a basket case without it.

HBD - getting a lot of stuff done in the garage this weekend because it created more working space and gives us access to things we need to get to.

OFE - getting all the clippers sharpened because it is quite a chore with all the bushes we have.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Stinkbug not having to go through surgery and able to come home because it is such a relief.
Rosebud - Aunt B and Uncle C letting us stay at their house because my parents were able to take Stinkbug to the doctor and they were very nice for doing that.
Stinkbug - my parents because they take good care of me and they love me and I'd still be really sick if they hadn't taken me to a doctor.
Sugarcake - Anna because she is so nice and she loves me.
ThereO - Stinkbug not having to spend the night in the hospital.
HBD - Children's Medical Center and the great doctors that took care of Stinkbug.
OFE - ThereO not having to call because Stinkbug was okay.

Giving thanks today (1-31-09) for...

Princess - the hospital because they were able to take care of my brother.
Rosebud - that Stinkbug didn't have to go through surgery because it's good that he didn't have to go through that.
Stinkbug - getting my Neal jersey because it is awesome, I'm so glad y'all got it for me, and I love it so much.
Sugarcake - football because it brings you happy and it is fun.
ThereO - Stinkbug being okay after we spent the evening in the ER for what we thought was appendicitis.
HBD - that nothing was seriously wrong with Stinkbug and he was okay.
OFE - being able to go to Lafayette because I'm glad I was feeling good enough to go and I got to see a bunch of people I haven't seen in a long time.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Macaroni Grill because we were able to have a very nice meal and I was able to spend time with my family.

Rosebud - being able to go ice skate today because I like going skating and I got to practice some of the stuff I need to for hockey.

Stinkbug - Macaroni Grill because it is delicious, they have a great waiter, I like their mac and cheese and it is really good to go to.

Sugarcake - my shoes because they cover your feet and they make you warm.

ThereO - being able to purchase a new book by one of my favorite authors because it's a long wait in between books and I like having a good read on a chilly night.

HBD - laptop computers for their convenience and efficiency.

OFE - going out in the yard and spraying Round Up so I can get rid of a bunch of weeds.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Snuffer's because I was able to have good food again.

Rosebud - getting all my school work done today because it is nice that I got to get it all done and it's not as hard as I think it is.

Stinkbug - my sister being born because I'm glad she was born and she's a wonderful sister to play with and I think she's my favorite because she doesn't treat me as bad.

Sugarcake - my brother being born because he's a wonderful brother, he's the only one I have and we have little animals and we play with them.

ThereO - a good, juicy cheeseburger because I don't eat them regularly any more and it was so good to have one.

HBD - my guitar because I can make beautiful music with it that soothes my soul.

OFE - the nurse bringing supplies today because they have been furnishing everything and we don't have to buy hardly anything.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - me being able to laugh because it brings joy to me.

Rosebud - noodles with butter because they are very good and it was soft on my teeth while they've been hurting.

Stinkbug - Sugarcake because I can play with her and she's really fun to play with.

Sugarcake - for glasses because they help you see and they make you know what things are.

ThereO - an ice storm so we could just stay in and enjoy the day at home.

HBD - the cold weather because it reminds me how much more thankful I am for the warm weather.

OFE - getting our car fixed and our freezer fixed during the day... dropped the car off this morning and he fixed it and we were able to pick it up by 2.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - me and my mom making up because we were able to talk about things and it feels so good to know that she's not mad at me anymore and I've had a chance to reason things out.

Rosebud - my Undine book because it is a very good book and I love reading those kinds of mysteries.

Stinkbug - the NHL because it is awesome, you get to watch hockey, they score a lot of goals, and it's a really good, competitive sport.

Sugarcake - Robidas because he helps and he is a good player.

ThereO - finishing a 700+ book by a favorite author because it feels like a big achievement to finish a book that long and he writes so beautifully that it really makes me think and feel.

HBD - days when I can just come home when I want and rest.

OFE - the drainage starting to work again because it was stopping up and getting me worried.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - the library because I can find the books there that I want to read and I don't have to pay for them.

Rosebud - HGTV because it helps me get more designing ideas and I love watching those shows.

Stinkbug - shoes because they keep our feet warm and they protect us from hard grounds and nails, I like shoes because they are safe too.

Sugarcake - sunglasses because they keep the sun out of your eyes.

ThereO - hugs because they feel good and make me feel loved.

HBD - our stereo equipment so that we can listen to all the beautiful music that we love.

OFE - going out to eat supper at Outback because we haven't done that in a long time.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my Nancy Drew books because they are something I can really enjoy and it's gotten me back into reading.

Rosebud - the All-Star game because it is fun to watch and it is when all the best hockey players in the league come together to play.

Stinkbug - the All-Star game because they are fun to watch, it's awesome, and I like how all the best players come together and it's fun to watch and it's fun watching hockey.

Sugarcake - my brush because it takes all my nests out and it makes my hair straight as my mom's.

ThereO - for the opportunity to know Anna because she had such a sweet and gentle spirit and I was able to learn so much from her.

HBD - church because it is wonderful and blesses our family both in liturgy and in the classes for the kids.

OFE - having a day of rest because it was nice.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - being able to be costumes for Wonderland because it is teaching me so much and it has taught me how to make a dress.

Rosebud - power puck class because it is helping me improve my stick handling and I'm glad that we can afford stuff like that.

Stinkbug - Neal being in the Young Stars game because it is awesome and it will prepare him to play in future All-Star games and he's my favorite player and I'm glad that he was able to go.

Sugarcake - Jesus because He takes care of me and He loves me.

ThereO - learning about money and life energy because it has really changed my thinking about a lot of things.

HBD - our fireplace because it is cozy and keeps us warm.

OFE - going out and working in the yard today because I got finished before the bad weather moved in.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my mom taking me to the movies and shopping for books because that made my day and that was very nice of her and it was a lot of fun.

Rosebud - the day that mom gave us today because it's been one of my favorite days and my mom is very nice for doing that.

Stinkbug - the thankful project because you can share your feelings and you can tell other people what you have been doing.

Sugarcake - ordering my Grossman jersey because it will be back on Valentine's Day and it says Grossman and he is my true love and my mommy and daddy letting me get it because they are special to me.

ThereO - Sugarcake telling me that today was the second best day of her life because it makes me feel good when one of my kids' enjoy their day.

HBD - it being the weekend so I can spend time with my family, time at church, and time with my reading.

OFE - my brother and his wife coming for a visit today because we had a good visit and it was good to see them.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - showers because they make me feel clean and really, really good.

Rosebud - being able to get my math done because I haven't been able to do it and it's not as hard as I thought it was.

Stinkbug - sports because if we didn't have them then we wouldn't be able to play them and then what would I have to do and I am so glad that they made sports.

Sugarcake - getting the nest out of my hair because it's clean and I love it.

ThereO - my kids really enjoying school today because I finally feel like I am teaching them a "love of learning" which is my main goal of homeschooling.

HBD - all the wonderful things my wife does each day to make our house look so nice.

OFE - pulling some real tough grass out of the rose beds because I haven't felt like doing it but I did today.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - peanut butter crackers because they help me feel better.

Rosebud - my laptop getting here because now I don't have to get on my brother's and it is nice to have it back.

Stinkbug - my sister's laptop getting here because now she doesn't have to use mine and I don't have to keep typing in my password for her anymore and she won't be touching mine.

Sugarcake - my daddy because he takes care of me, he buys me stuff, and he loves me.

ThereO - Rosebud getting her laptop back because I know she enjoys having it so very much!

HBD - reconnecting with old friends because a good buddy I haven't heard from in a long time called me.

OFE - being able to go to the TPA meeting because I got to see a bunch of friends.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Target because I can find what I want there.

Rosebud - power skating because it helps me with my skating and it is helping me with the techniques.

Stinkbug - cameras because you can take pictures and remember what you look like from when you are little and have a great time looking at what your favorite thing was that you did and have good memories of what you lost.

Sugarcake - Momma because she loves me, takes care of me, and she always protects me.

ThereO - E's mom because she has become a good friend, she has a beautiful soul, and she constantly shows me what strength looks like.

HBD - the kids' hockey lessons because they enjoy it so much and it has been good for their self-esteem.

OFE - goobers (peanuts) because they sure taste good.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my jersey because it is so much fun to have and I'm not the only one in the house that doesn't have a jersey and it is very comfy and I LOVE IT!

Rosebud - the Target photo lab because I get to print my pictures and then I can put them in my scrapbook and look at them.

Stinkbug - pillows because they are comfy.

Sugarcake - my feet because they help me walk and they are the best feet I've ever had.

ThereO - getting some schooling done because it made me feel like I had accomplished what I needed to accomplish.

HBD - Dr. Pepper and Vitamin Water, my two favorite beverages, because they are tasty and refreshing.

OFE - my laptop because it's fun to play on and gives me something to do.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - curlers because I love my hair now and now I have something to curl my hair with.

Rosebud - going to church because we haven't been there in a long time and it was nice to be able to go this morning.

Stinkbug - ice because you can play hockey on it and you get to figure skate (boring) and you get to put it in your water to make it colder and put ice in your mouth when you are hot.

Sugarcake - my bible because it helps me learn about Jesus and everything.

ThereO - that the kids were glad we went to church because I want church to be something they enjoy and not a "chore."

HBD - our church and lunch because I love going to church as a family and our time together afterwards.

OFE - being able to do a little a work this morning because it makes me feel good to be able to do stuff again.

Giving thanks today (1-17-09) for...

Princess - my mom and dad taking me to the Stars game because it was so nice of them and it was one of the best days ever and I had soooo much fun... it was a blast!

Rosebud - the Stars winning because they are getting closer to the Stanley Cup and it is fun to see them win.

Stinkbug - bowling with Grandmother because I got to see my friends and I did good and I won a game with a score of 104 and I got see my friend Alex and it was his birthday and I had fun.

Sugarcake - getting presents because they are the best and they really are good and I got a magnifying glass.

ThereO - being able to take our oldest to the Stars game because she really enjoyed spending time with her parents and that means a lot to me.

HBD - our time with Princess... going to the Stars game and lunch because it was a special time for the three of us.

OFE - going to church today because that was very nice to be able to do that and see some folks I haven't seen in awhile.

Giving thanks today (1-16-09) for...

Princess - my mom telling me I look beautiful when I dance because it made me feel like the best dancer in the world.

Rosebud - Grandmother babysitting us because we got to spend more time with her and my parents got to take my sister to the hockey game.

Stinkbug - the Stars because you get to watch them practice and you get to go to their games and get to get their autographs.

Sugarcake - my pajama pants because if I didn't have them then I would be cold and they keep me protected.

ThereO - our new dishwasher because it is super quiet and it's nice to be able to get all those dishes done.

HBD - our new dishwasher because we can afford nice luxuries like that.

OFE - being able to go shopping because it has been along time since I've been able to do stuff like that and saw an old friend while I was out and it was good to see and visit with him for a little while.

Giving thanks today (1-15-09) for...

Princess - Sears because they helped us get a new dishwasher

Rosebud - staying home all day because then you don't have to get out and it's nice just to stay home.

Stinkbug - Sugarcake being able to go to the Stars game because I thought she would have a lot of fun and she did and I love it when she does that stuff because she can learn and have good memories.

Sugarcake - going to the Stars game because I got to have fun with my mom and daddy and they love me.

ThereO - being able to take our youngest to the Stars game because even though she got really stressed, it meant so much to her to be able to go with just her parents.

HBD - our time with Sugarcake at the hockey game and dinner because I love times like that.

OFE - going to J's house for supper because she made some awesome food and it was really, really good and nice to get out.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - dad going get us supper because that was very nice of him even though his mouth hurts a lot and he had bad day and it tasted very good.

Rosebud - staying home all day because it was not to go anywhere and it was just nice to stay home.

Stinkbug - 24 hours in a day because if it was only one hour then you wouldn't get to do very much so when you have more time then you have more time to play and have fun and have time with your family.

Sugarcake - me because I'm white and I shine.

ThereO - being approved for an education discount for some photo software that I've been wanting because it saved us major bucks.

HBD - conversations with my wife about anything and everything because it is wonderful to be married to your best friend.

OFE - Mrs. P bringing me communion because 

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - mom taking me to Starbucks because that was very nice of her and it was a real treat and we got to do our school work and it was fun.

Rosebud - Coach Mike because he's a very nice coach and he's teaching me a lot in hockey.

Stinkbug - eyes because if you didn't have any you couldn't see and your eyes are really special.

Sugarcake - blankies because they keep you warm and they are soft.

ThereO - an orthodontist that does beautiful work and truly cares about  his patients.

HBD - the beautiful moon tonight for it keeps in perspective God's awesome creation of the universe.

OFE - heater because it keeps us warm and I can remember when I was younger and we didn't have anything... Mother would put about 5 blankets on us and then in the morning when it was still dark, it was my job to get up and get the wood out and get a fire going... I was soooo cold I'd run and get back under the covers in the spot that was still warm.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - water because it helped me feel better.

Rosebud - my toothbrush because if I didn't have it my teeth would be brown and they'd all fall out which would be nasty and the Stars winning tonight because it means they might move up in the standings and I love it when they win.

Stinkbug - vegetables because they help you grow, some of them help you get more vision - like carrots, and they are good.

Sugarcake - my guitar because I get to play music and learn about music

ThereO - the money to purchase things like a dishwasher because it is a comfort to know we can pay for things and not have to go in debt.

HBD - our home because it's been a wonderful place to grow our family.

OFE - my drainage coming out because I was worried I was stopped up again.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - being able to read music because if I'm not able to take music lessons then I can learn on my own.

Rosebud - our car because it helps take us places and we don't have to walk.

Stinkbug - playstation because you get to play games and they are really awesome like Star Wars and hockey and racing and they are really fun and sometimes it is almost like you are watching one.

Sugarcake - hockey practice because it teaches you how to play and it is fun to do.

ThereO - a relaxing day at home because it has given me a chance to recharge and begin focusing on what God wants me to focus on.

HBD - my comfortable bed that allows me to sleep so peacefully.

OFE - my nurse saying E for Elephant because it put everyone in a good mood during rough time and that I talked to Sugarcake the other night because I enjoyed it.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - being able to babysit Sugarcake because it brings us closer together and I was able to surprise my family by cleaning the house and that brings us closer together.

Rosebud - my blog because I get to write whatever I want on it and they are fun to have.

Stinkbug - the guitar because it helps you learn music and it's really fun and I love it and it teaches you a lot about music.

Sugarcake - PawPaw because he is sweet, he loves us, and he is the best.

ThereO - being able to watch my kids practice hockey because it just fills my heart with good feelings to see my kids doing something they enjoy and knowing how much skill it takes.

HBD - weekends that I can spend with my family to relax and enjoy each other's company.

OFE - being able to have breakfast with my breakfast buddies because it's been two or three years since we've been able to and it was so nice to visit with them.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - the J.'s because they are a wonderful family, they are so nice, and they set a good example.

Rosebud - my mom taking my laptop to be fixed because I don't have to use Stinkbug's anymore and I will be able to get on sites of things I want to learn about, like architecture.

Stinkbug - the J.'s because they are lots of fun and me and P like to play and do lots of things together.

Sugarcake - showers because they wash you off and you smell clean.

ThereO - a peaceful visit with a friend because their children play really well with our children so we can actually have a conversation.

HBD - comfortable shoes because they keep my feet warm and protect my feet from injury.

OFE - my laptop coming on because it takes so long that it is hard to wait but it is on now.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - chess because it is a fun and intellectual game and it is fun to learn about and it is very interesting and it's a game where you have to use skill.

Rosebud - my math book because it helps me know more about math and when I get older it will hopefully help me to be a better architect.

Stinkbug - Princess to play chess with and have time with her because we can have time together and I get to play with her.

Sugarcake - my DS because you get to play on it and it is fun.

ThereO - time to get MOST of my closet organized because it has been difficult to get to my stuff and it just feels so much more relaxing to have that done.

HBD - quiet nights at home because it is restful for my mind and soothing to my soul.

OFE - my "plumbing system" was flushed out and started working properly.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Stinkbug teaching me how to play chess because that was very nice of him, it's a fun and intellectual game and I enjoy it very much and I enjoyed playing with him.

Rosebud - my icons because they are very pretty and I can pray with them every night.

Stinkbug - my family because they play with me, they protect me, they watch tv with me, they're really special and when I need help, they help me.

Sugarcake - laptops because you get to get on stuff, you get to get on Claire's and Macy's and Target and you can get on a lot of stuff.

ThereO - my sponsor agreeing to still be my sponsor even though I haven't been on program for about 6 weeks.

HBD - the book "The Holiness of God" for it has dramatically impacted my life.

OFE - a beautiful day because I was able to piddle in the yard and prune some more bushes.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my room because it is a place of my own and it is where I can have quiet time to think.

Rosebud - my bible because it helps me learn more about God and it helps me grow closer to God.

Stinkbug - video games because they sometimes help you and they are really fun to play and sometimes you get awesome games and they are fun.

Sugarcake - reading because it learns you how to read and you learn stuff to be nice.

ThereO - my laptop working again because I was able to balance the check book and do bills without a bunch of hassle.

HBD - our incredible universe for it gives us a glimpse of the majesty of God.

OFE - being able to get my valve changed because it went smoothly and they had one so it wasn't a big problem.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - my dad being a vegetarian because I know he is taking care of himself, he's teaching my mom to take care of herself and he's teaching me to take care of myself because he is teaching me to be healthy, love animals, and to watch our colon health because meat is actually not good for you.

Rosebud - a fire in the fireplace because it warms us and it warms up the house and it's very cozy.

Stinkbug - our car because if we wanted to go to Lake Charles we would have to walk there and it would take 5 days or more and if we went to OK it would take a long time and cars can take us wherever we want and it goes a lot faster.

Sugarcake - birthdays because you get presents and it's a happy day and you get to play with your family, you get to have a happy day and you get to go out and do stuff.

ThereO - a clothes washer and dryer because it would be NO fun whatsoever to go outside in cold weather and try to wash clothes and dry them by a fire.

HBD - the gift of sight for obvious reasons but mostly to see the natural beauty of this world and the ability to read.

OFE - all the prayers people have been saying for me.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Burt's Bees Wax because it cleared up my sinuses for awhile and made me feel really good and it cleared up my dry skin and made it feel so much better.

Rosebud - Aunt Lynette because she is very nice to me and she is a very good aunt and I love her.

Stinkbug - lights because they light up the house and when it's Christmas people put up a million lights on their houses and it's beautiful and they make things so pretty.

Sugarcake - the fireplace because it warms you up.

ThereO - the opportunity to tell someone how much she means to me because it brought a smile to her face and hopefully it will encourage her when she is feeling sad.

HBD - Catherine and Ernie and the example they have shown for us as parents over this past year.

OFE - being able to work in the yard because it's nice to be able to do stuff.

Giving thanks today (1-3-09) for...

Princess - Aunt Catherine because she has inspired me to be a better person and a better person and she's very loving and a wonderful person.

Rosebud - Aunt Catherine because I love her and she is very nice to me and she's the best aunt anyone could ever have.

Stinkbug - football because it is fun to play, I have a good arm and it makes you healthy and you run fast and it is a fun game.

Sugarcake - cameras because you get to take pictures and they are fun to take.

ThereO - being able to watch my son be the ring bearer at my nephew's wedding because he was just so darn handsome and behaved so well, he just made me very proud.

HBD - Ernie and Allison found one another and that their wedding was beautiful.

OFE - the wedding going okay and that everybody had a good time.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Allison because she is so very nice and sweet and she is going to be a wonderful cousin.
Rosebud - Uncle Carl because he helped me get my medicine so I would feel better.
Stinkbug - Buddy because he is like a guard to me at night and I love him and when I get sad I can cuddle up with him and I can play with him and when I get mad, I can go to him and I have lots of fun with him and he is very special to me and I wish the girls would never treat him like he is junk.
Sugarcake - the clock because it can tell time and you can see what time it is.
ThereO - prayer because without prayer, I would make really bad decisions and through prayer I am able to communicate with God.
HBD - Ernie and Allison finding one another.
OFE - taking a walk outside in the beautiful weather because I like being able to get around better.

Giving thanks today for...

Princess - Kristin because she is a wonderful friend, babysitter and she inspires me to grow in Christ more.

Rosebud - Kristin because she is very nice to us and she's a very good babysitter.

Stinkbug - ornaments because it lights up the tree instead of being bare and the red and gray ones are really pretty and I like the other ornaments and they're really cool and some of them aren't as pretty as the other ones but they are fine and it's really beautiful.

Sugarcake - hotels because if you didn't have a house you would have to live in a hotel.

ThereO - a date with my husband because I love to have that time to reconnect and discuss issues without interruptions.

HBD - date nights with my wife because it provides a time for us to connect with one another.

OFE - ringing the new year in and having a good meal at Aunt Rosie's because it was just really good.