Days 1-6

So I have been seeing everyone on Facebook or Instagram post what they are thankful for this month. Upon giving it some thought, it's actually a great way to celebrate this Thanksgiving holiday season. I realize I'm coming into this a little late but as it's said better late than never.

Day 1- For the Beauty of the Earth:Enjoying the brilliant orange, pink and purple hues of a Florida sunset. The wind and smell of rain from an approaching thunderstorm. Waking up to a fog so dense you feel all alone in the world. The icicles hanging off the tree branches on a rare night that it freezes. Hearing the birds chirping first thing in the morning. Watching butterflies fluttering from one blossom to another. Tasting honey right off the comb.    

Day 2- New Life:I love each year watching the world renew life in different forms. I love living where I can watch the citrus trees bloom and watch the oranges grow and ripen until I can eat them. I love watching literally new life come into the world each year when new calves are born. I love planting seeds in my garden and watching the plants come to life as they push through the soil toward the sunlight.

Day 3- Sisters: Audrey, came into my life when I was the ripe old age of 22 months. As young children all we did was argue with each other. As we have gone older, I now respect her as a person, mother and sister. She is a gifted creator...no matter what she does it turns out wonderful and beautiful. She is a talented photographer...I especially love the pictures she takes of my nieces. Heather came into my life when I was almost 8 years old...my sweet, beautiful baby sister. She has always been my friend and confidant. I wish I could play the piano by ear like she does. I love the bond we share. About a year ago, Rebecca became my sister-in-law. I admire her patience, commitment to family and her loyalty to friendship.

Day 4- Brothers:Growing up, I only had one brother, Cody. Being his older sister hasn't always been easy but I love him none the less. He's an incredible athlete and such a professional. He's one of the funniest persons I know and he can keep me laughing for hours until my cheeks hurt. Seven years ago, Scott became my brother-in-law. He is a devoted husband and father, hard worker and all around great guy. Three short months ago, Erick joined the clan. I don't really know him all that well but I can see how happy he has made my youngest sister and for that I am grateful. I do know he has an eye for natural photography.
 
Day 5- Parents:I'm thankful for their unconditional love and support. Both are strong individuals. My father is so funny. He keeps his students laughing with his voice imitations. I love watching football with him each weekend. My mother is a gifted pianist and seamstress. She is one of the hardest working people I know.

Day 6- Nieces:Almost four years ago, Alexis (Lexi) Lauren Beaudin was born...officially making me an aunt.Words can not express the joy I felt the first time I held this precious little girl in my arms. She and I have an incredible connection...I absolutely love playing with her and telling her silly stories that make her laugh. A little more than a year after Lexi was born; she became a big sister to Taylor Lynn Beaudin. This little spitfire inherited her aunt's stubborn temper. She and I don't have quite the same connection that her sister and I do however, we love cooking together and playing together. I love both these little girls so much and wish I lived closer to them.