changes.

It's finally friday. . has this been a long week? All four of my children got on the bus and went to school today!! Yippee! I have so many things to do, I shouldn't be sitting here on my bum in front of the computer. But I have to get my thankful thoughts down. I'm thankful for:

1. a freezer full of meals. . thanks ladies.

2. a quiet house. . just for a couple of hours.

3. family. . extended family. My cousin, Mitch, left for the MTC this week, and another cousin, Nicole, is getting married tomorrow, so there are several extended family members in town. It's so good to see Amy and her kids. I haven't actually seen Taylor and BoDee yet, but I will tonight. Bailey is all grown up. . and beautiful I might add. She actually has her driver's license. Grandma Janet just let her climb into her car and drive off. . oh my gosh. . I'm so old. . even Bailey can drive now.

(Nicole, Kristy & Brady in 2005. . being silly)

Brady and Kristy (more cousins) are in town, too. They're always fun to have around. . they're so cute together! And just like that, they'll all be gone back home on Sunday. Even part of the family that lives here will be leaving town on Sunday. . going out of town for Thanksgiving. It's going to be a different kind of year for the family, isn't it?? What happened to all of us being young and playing games at Grandma's house while we snack on turkey, rolls, dressing, broccoli & cheese, and pie all weekend?? People grow old and traditions change. It's really bittersweet, isn't it?

"the only thing that stays the same is everything changes. ." Dwight Yokam song.

I love the quote at the top of Heidi's blog. . in case you haven't noticed it, it says,

"Do now what you want to spend eternity remembering"

What a great reminder. Thanks, Heidi!!