Giving Thanks

Where do I even begin to state my gratitude for what this year has brought to our lives?

To my husband, thank you for asking me to be your wife. I am so proud of the life we have built together and look forward to spending the rest of our days together. I don't think I can ever put into words how grateful I am to have you as Avett's daddy.  You sacrifice SO much, especially sleep, so that he can be cared for in a way that we choose. Even though we don't get to spend our evenings together anymore, we still find our way to connect every morning while we talk on our commutes. We catch up, we make plans, we love each other.

To my baby.  My first baby. My first son. You are such a delight. You make each day infinitely more joyful. I love your curiosity and determination; you have grown and developed so much because of it. You are happy and easy-going. You are a lover of life, and of people; of being and of doing.  I am madly in love with you. My heart feels so full. I couldn't love you more!

To my parents. I am so grateful that you helped grow me into the independent person that I am. Although it may have been more out of circumstance, you never questioned the decisions I made for myself along the way. You have been a strong and enthusiastic support system. And a wonderful guide throughout the years. You love me, my husband, and our son unconditionally.

I have always been so grateful for the close relationships I share with my sisters. This year is even more special as we celebrate Thanksgiving with my sister, Lissa, and brother-in-law, Heath, who are in town from Georgia. We spent the weekend celebrating their growing family, my future niecephew, and spend today celebrating the unity of the entire Wiedmeyer clan. Thank you for making the long trip up here, even though it wasn't just for Thanksgiving, it is so nice to be able to spend so much time with you. I can't say thank you enough to my baby sister Kathryn.  I never intended to rely on you as much as we have to at times. It gives me much peace of mind knowing that Avett is in capable, loving and caring hands when I and/or Aaron cannot be there. I hope you know that I have never taken your help for granted!  And to Laura, thank you for being on-call and offering your help whenever you can. I know it's been a tough year and a challenging work schedule. Thank you to all of you for your sacrifices.

To my in-laws, first I want to thank you for all of the hard work you put into your house and land in order to make our wedding day so stunning!  I know it was a labor of love and we appreciate it so much. I could not have asked for a more gorgeous venue to help us join our lives together. I am thrilled to be a part of your family. I have loved you from the very beginning. You are all so genuine, social, warm, inviting and loving. I wouldn't choose anyone else even if I could.