30 Days of Thanksgiving

Yes, I am sure that I will be disowned for posting this picture, but I can't help it. Just look at that CUUUUTE baby! Don't you just wanna squish those chubby cheeks?

Yes that is me, with my brother, mom and dad. I love looking at these old pics of us, I was very blessed to have an amazing childhood. Today I am VERY thankful for my parents. I am who I am because of them, and it's fun to see the similarities and differences between them and myself.

I was so fortunate to have my mom stay home with us for most of my younger years. Times were so different back then, we biked everywhere, to the pool, into town, to friends houses. I don't think I had many friends who's mom's worked, so it was always fun to head over to friends house for "coffee". Major playtime for us! We also had my grandparents live close by, so it was always fun hanging out at the farm. Going in the tractor with dad or grandpa was always fun!

In today's world, there are so many parenting styles, and I can honestly say that there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think I am wrecking my kids for life:) But then when I look back at how my parents raised us, I know I'm doing a good job. We always knew they were there for us, no matter what. We were spanked, and have somehow stayed out of therapy for that. I'm sure that they have regrets, as I am sure I will also. But the main thing I can take away from my parents is the unconditional love they have for me. It didn't matter that they got a phone call at 1 in the morning informing them to come pick up their drunk daughter at a party, (love you!) it didn't matter that I made some terrible choices in the man department (before meeting my amazing hubs, of course). Yes I knew there would be consequences, but I NEVER felt shamed, or unloved by them.

I can only hope that I am the mother my mother was to me, she was (and is) my best friend, and I know that she will give me her honest advice if I need it. I know she will always be there for me, and I couldn't have been blessed with anyone better:)

Thanks mom and dad for all your love and support!