Continually Blessed....

I really have nothing important to say or news to share. I've just been so struck lately with how blessed we are. Sure, we've had a really rocky year, one that I do not care to ever repeat, however, things could be so much worse! I'm at a stage in life where I'm so completely content it's crazy! Both Josh and I have careers that make us a living and let us pay bills and live comfortably. We have reliable cars to get us to our jobs (though Josh would argue that since he STILL wants a new truck), we have a lovely little house that is perfect for us, we live in a community we love, we have hobbies that excite and challenge us, and we have friends and family that we adore. Seriously, what more could I ask for?

Would I bring Mom back if I could? ABSOLUTELY in a heartbeat, but there have been good things that have come because of her passing. That sounds strange, but it's true. People have mentioned how much her life and death impacted their own lives. Dad has forged some new friendships that I believe will last a lifetime.

And we're having a baby!! What in life could be more exciting? I felt "Hercules" as we've dubbed him/her move for the first time May 24 - AMAZING. Being pregnant has also caused us to slow down some and just enjoy life's little moments. Like sitting on the couch being totally lazy together. We know those days will soon be over, and it's given us a new found appreciation for those moments. Our "big appointment" is a week from today, June 29. As I mentioned before, Josh doesn't want to know the gender, and I do. So, we will be finding out : ) Then comes the painting and getting Hercules' room all ready to go. It will also begin the crazy task of naming this little life. I never understood how huge of a decision this really is.....WOW. I'm confused already and we really haven't hit the books hard yet.

After our appointment, providing the little one cooperates, we'll share the gender, however, I'm not one to officially name a child until he/she makes an appearance. We'll have a short list to take to the hospital, then will decide when we see that precious little face. I need to try the names on : )

We have so many friends and family members expecting right now, too - it's fun to have people to take this journey with! Some of them are on numbers 2 and 3, and several are first time Mom's like me. It's a great mix of the wonders of a first time pregnancy and the advice the more experienced Mom's can provide.

See? Told you life was good and we've been blessed! The BBQ madness continues, and we're having a good season thus far. Looking forward to hitting the trail to Marshalltown this weekend for the Iowa State BBQ Championship sponsored by the Iowa BBQ Society.

Hope you all take time to "stop and smell the roses" and enjoy all of life's little blessings as well.