Thankful

Thanksgiving was quiet and lovely. Ryan had to work in the morning, but Isaac and I spent a few hours with my parents.  My brother and future sister in law Kelly Ann came out too.  I did a little bit of baking, and also helped my mom make lunches for church volunteers who are driving into Jersey to help clean up from Hurricane Sandy. 

Source: heartsonit.com via ERenee on Pinterest

Ryan's family had invited Isaac and I to join them for Thanksgiving.  At the last minute, Deb and Patrick decided to host.  Deb's family is from Puerto Rico, so in addition to the usual stuffing and potatoes, there was also rice and beans and a baked banana side dish.  I made those ridiculously easy pumpkin muffins and they were a big hit.  Sunday we went to Ryan's parent's house for another family dinner. I am so lucky because I really enjoy his family and spending time with them. 

I have been thinking a lot about "things" and being grateful.  I am not going to make a list of things I am grateful for, but there is so much.  

This quote has been rattling around in my head for the past few weeks:

 

I have boxed up about four huge bags of stuff for charity. Living in a townhouse, it seems that storage and space is always at a premium. Especially when Ryan and his kids are here-- that is six people in this little house. I think my attitude is sometimes "Well I need a bigger closet/garage/house" so keep all of this *stuff* in, when really, I just need less stuff.

I love Pinterest and lifestyle blogs as much as the next girl, but, for me personally, I have to make sure that I am not allowing those websites to make me feel like what I have isn't enough.  Sometimes I have to conciously remind myself that I won't die if I can't have at least five of the the top ten "Must Have" items for [insert season here].   And it doesn't really matter how much the four adorable Target clearance shirts were marked down if I really, truly don't have the money left in my budget for them.  I don't know why it is so hard for me to learn that lesson.  I guess I am terrifically stubborn and hard headed.

And Pinterest?  I think it is is a double edged sword. I love the recipes, crafts, tips and tricks.  But I get a sort of sick feeling in my stomach whenever I see people with "dream home" type boards on Pinterest.  How can you feel happy with your own home and entryway, when you have seen this and pinned it to your "for the future" board?

Source: houzz.com via Alisha on Pinterest

How can you feel satisfied with your yard when your kids don't have a tree house like this for the kiddies to play in:

 

 

 

 

 

Source: poppytalk.blogspot.com via Takakuni on Pinterest

Anyways, I am grateful for all of the people and friendships and love that I have in my life.  And I am conciously trying to worry about "things" and more focus more on experiences. 

Source: Uploaded by user via Jamie on Pinterest