Gratitude... Long Overdue

I have been writing this post in my head for weeks, but it isn't until now that I have actually had the time to sit down and put it into words.  These past 3 months have been an absolute whirlwind.  Bringing a third baby into the family has come with its many joys... and with a few challenges.  It has been a struggle to ensure I spend time with each of my girls, individually.  Each night I would drag myself to bed and cry.  I felt like such a failure, even though I felt like I was doing my absolute, 110%, very best.  I would go over the events of that particular day and give myself a grade.  And every time, I fell short in at least one area... most of the times even more than that.  I have felt like I am just not enough.  I lose my temper.  I fall asleep in the middle of prayer.  My house is wrecked.  I forget to shower for days.  I even forgot how old I was.  (My sister had to remind me that I was 27... not 28).  But, as I sat and realize how short I was falling, I also realized something else.... Something so important.  I realized that I have Y.O.U.  Yes, you who are reading this post.  You.  Even as I fail to measure up, you are there to fill in the difference.  The neighbors, who brought delicious and nutritious meals to us.  The friends that took my girls on fun outings to give me a break and some time to really enjoy my newborn.  The family who did my laundry and played Mario with my girls too many times to count.  The words of encouragement and understanding from EVERYONE around me.  The long drives family made to celebrate our new daughter.  The many comments about how cute Juliette is.  The phone calls to let us know, even though you are far away, you still were thinking about us.  The cuddles and snuggles you gave my baby when you came to steal some time with her.  The patience and love given to the older girls who have so much more responsibility now.  The hugs and knowing glances.  The wonderful advice.  Thank you for thinking of us... of me.  I am so glad.... so grateful, for each and everyone of these things and each and every one of you.  If I was having a bad day, I would get a call asking if you could take Alexis for the morning.  If my kitchen was a mess, you came over to love me anyway.

I am sorry it has taken this long to say, but.... thank you, from the very bottom of my heart.  Yes, I alone, am not quite enough.  But, with each and every one of you, nothing is lacking.  I have not been left on my own.  Your love and concern has made up the difference.  Thank you.