Today, I am grateful for Reilly Joy Caldwell. She is three years old today and a most beautiful little Christmas angel. Her name is perfect for her – she is pure joy. Such a happy little soul, and so full of life.
I do not know her very well, but when I talk to her mom on the phone, Reilly can almost always be heard in the background with a delightful shrill scream. She screams at just about everything, I think.
My favorite memory of Reilly took place in July when we went to Colorado to help the kids pack for their move. I spent the night at the house and was privileged to put Reilly to bed on Saturday evening. As I quietly walked out of her darkened room, I heard this very sweet, tiny voice say, “I love you forever!” I never want to forget that sound…
Happy birthday, sweet Reilly Joy. Ama loves you so, so much.
I am grateful for the smell of Kirkland’s. I wish I could permanently afix that smell underneath my nose.
I am grateful for a woman who waved us into her parking spot this morning so that we wouldn’t drive right by it and miss front row parking.
I am grateful for cornbread.
I am grateful for a fire in the fireplace while it is icing over outside.
I am grateful for a wonderful Christmas party last night with Sam’s employees.
I am grateful for jeans, a soft sweater, two pair of socks, and a pair of boots to keep me warm today.
I am grateful for people who are kind and think the best of their family members.
I am grateful for little ones who wear Santa hats and hide behind their mom’s legs when they are embarrassed because we notice.
I am grateful for young adults who are working their way through school and have learned some valuable life lessons early in life.
I am grateful for people who give generously to others.
And I am grateful for cable TV on a day like today. But if there were no cable TV, I would be grateful for books. I’m still grateful for books.
rhondaisgrateful 