11 months

I've been trying to come up with something each day this month that I'm thankful for. And yesterday, on Aidan's 11 "month-day," I said:

Today I'm thankful that 11 months ago, I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. And that he fulfilled my two wishes for that pregnancy.
1. Term.
2. That he choose his birthday.

And I am still thankful for that. And so much more.

Even when he throws a tantrum because he doesn't have the ONE thing he wants the most. When he has many other items right in front of him that would fulfill his need.

Even when he kicks his legs and screams in frustration because his sister gets to do something he can't yet.

Even when chomps down on my leg because he's teething. Again.

I am thankful for him. And all that he is. I have been blessed with two very strong personalities. It will not be a boring time in this household for the next 18 years.

Budding artist?

Yesterday while working on dinner, we set Elisa up with her whiteboard and marker. She loves to color, draw, any of that. Andrew sat down in his chair and I turned around to open up some more of the items needed. When I looked back over at her, I saw this.

My first thought was that Andrew got up and helped her. But then I realized I would have heard that. I mean she was just feet away from where I was. I could hear her muttering to herself about how she was drawing "daddy" and then watched as she made the second face and narrated that she was drawing "brother."

And all I could think was WOW. I mean, she's barely three. Should she even be able to do this?

And this happened after we were asked TWICE in two days if she was in speech therapy. Since, according to these people, she needs it.

Maybe she does, maybe she doesn't. Regardless, I was floored by this. I don't think I could draw this well and I'm 32.

Purple

Going purple for prematurity! November is prematurity awareness month and I'm so thankful for the health of my preemie. Three years ago we were just beginning our journey. And while the journey doesn't truly end, I love where we are now.

And I'm participating in another photo challenge with a friend. Today's word is color...and I chose purple for obvious reasons. :)