Gratitude

I'm sitting in the front room at 3:32 a.m., not able to sleep, and for the first time in several years...I'm excited about Christmas morning. The lights are all off except for the tree, which twinkles pretty white lights. The strings of garland cast it into a soft glow and the ornaments sparkle.

Underneath the tree there's only a small assortment of gifts; not the crazy mass of wrapped boxes and bags that plagued us in years past. No, Santa and us only brought a handful of gifts for the kids this year. It's what made the difference, buying less and spending our efforts in what really matters.

That was the true showing of gratitude. For, that is one of the main purposes of the holiday. Gratitude. Appreciation for family, friends, and every gifted day of life we've been given in the last 365 days.

I wake up every morning next to my lifelong sweetheart. And though I wake up grumpy 90% of the time - the alarm clock and I have a precarious relationship - I know what a truly unique miracle I've been blessed with. Not many people can look at their spouse after sixteen years (most don't even make that anniversary) and still feel their heart skip a giddy beat.

There are many wonderful and loving people who for some mysterious reason are not given the miracle of children. I've been blessed with four and even though some days are truly trials, I wouldn't give the worst teenage parenting day up. Their laughter, spirit, and journey into adulthood fills our home with color and happiness.

Even with the joys of our immediate family, we wouldn't be able to do it alone. Our life wouldn't be whole without our friends and family. Certain people, we were blessed with through birth and have been weaved into the fabric of our core existence. Some, we have met in our quest to old age and have added meaning through the meeting and continued love and friendship we share with one another.

Today - or rather yesterday - I sat in the Emergency room with my littlest boy. His excitement of the holiday got the best of him and he ran full speed into the corner of the tailgate. As we waited for the of the doctor and the dreaded stitches we hung out.

The moment could have been traumatic and stressful. But instead, he and I giggled, talked, and drew our way through the almost two-hour process. Our little Super Wy laid like a trooper and only cried a little as the doctor sewed his head back up. The emergency room nurse and physician were both very impressed with him, as was I. Super Wy even thanked them and then asked politely if he could go home now.

The experience was impactful to me, driving home, and I think the start of the realization that led up to this early morning entry. Ash and I have built a wonderful life together from very humble beginnings. With support and love from the tribe of family and friends, our children have lived in a warm and loving environment. They've thrived, growing into wonderful and normal children.

What more could your ask for? Nothing.

What is there to be grateful for? Everything.

So, love and best wishes from The Norris Ranch! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!