Something To Be Thankful For

I still remember how on the day before Thanksgiving two years ago, Brandon came home early.  Everyone in the house was asleep, including me, and I woke up to find Brandon downstairs.  He had arrived home earlier but found us all asleep and he didn't want to wake us. Seriously, one of the best days of my life (not counting my wedding day or the birth of my children, of course).  I didn't know he was getting off work early, and normally, the anticipation of the event is almost better then the actual event, but this time the surprise of him being home, filled me with joy.

Today finds me once again, on the day before Thanksgiving waiting for Brandon's arrival home. This time though, it's not from work.  Finding ourselves with extra vacation days that had to be used before the end of the year, Brandon decided to take this whole week off. That, combined with Jack also being on vacation from school, has created this little bubble of bliss.  This is the third day we have been home together, co-parented together, took turns cooking dinner, cleaning up, and putting kids to bed.

But at 3:00 this afternoon I was done. I spent the day baking an apple pie that my MIL has just informed me is not needed. Burned the pecan tassies that were needed for Thanksgiving. Attempted a Thanksgiving craft that left 2 of the 3 boys in tears.  Mopped my kitchen floor and only had to dump the water twice because it was so brown.  When Brandon returned from running errands, which thank god included a hair cut, I was already packed and ready to go.

As I ran out the door, I called back over my shoulder: "The boys need to clean up the craft mess, pick up the duplos, eat a snack, and NO TV. Bye, love you!"

Two years ago I was so thankful that Brandon was home to help take care of our then 4 year old, 2 year old, and 5 month old.  This year, I am thankful that Brandon understands when I say I'm leaving and his only comment is: "Go get a pedicure and a manicure!"

Love him and love this time I have because of him.