Multitude Monday

1.  I am thankful for the moment I had with Lauren this morning, as I walked her into school -- she reached up and took my hand, told me how beautiful the rock garden we were walking by was, then told me how much she loved her school.  I love that she's not too old to hold my hand, that she sees the beauty around her, and that the educational choices that we agonized over seem to be right for her.

2.  I am thankful that we got to spend an evening at David and Meredith's house on Friday night with Jeanie and Josh and all our kids.  After all that David and Meredith have been through over the past few weeks, it was nice to all be together again, have some good food and drink, and have a few laughs.

3.  I am thankful that the kids also feel the strength of those established friendships -- David, Gracie and Jon Owen fell right back in with each other, even though they are all at different schools this year.  And Lizzie, Madison, and Hudson have formed their very own little friendship trifecta.

4.  I am thankful to have started my Christmas shopping early (thank you, Partners Card!), which puts me in the Christmas spirit early.  Christmas is a magical time in my memory, and I always want it to feel that way for my kids as well.

5.  I am thankful to have seen Heather last week -- although it was a very brief visit shared by others, it was nice to be able to see her again.

6.  I am thankful to have seen Robin last week, as she brought me new living room drapes which I love.  The news of fewer chemo treatments needed has made us all breathe easier.

7.  I am thankful that Jon Owen seems to finally have fallen in love with reading and books.  I have had more fun buying books for him this week.....

8.  I am thankful for Facebook, which has brought old friends back into my circle and fond old memories resurface.

9.  I am thankful for my fellow Co-op Board members, who are efficient and like-minded and dedicated, and who are making my last year as President rewarding and easy, despite the difficult tasks we are facing.

10.  I am thankful for the beautiful weather, which will allow our Parish Cup Tennis Mixer to go on as planned this Friday, bringing fun and fellowship into our lives.