{today}

we have several playgrounds and parks within a few block radius of us.  over the past few weeks Noah and I have started favoring one particular playground because it's the only one that is fenced in, so he can roam free without fear of running in the street.  Noah doesn't care for the swings too much, but he loves the slides.  we love this little spot, and the fact that we get to visit so often.

today I'm thankful for...

-such a mild December and January... beautiful weather, allowing lots of time outdoors
-some cooler weather moving in
-a good cup of Chai tea
-cozy warm boots (fake uggs)
-so many assorted parks and playgrounds within walking distance
-the chance to spend all day, every day with Noah, and to visit these fun parks
-a slower pace of life now that the holidays are over
-some slow time, not watching any other kids, and being able to devote my full attention to Noah and enjoying this age and stage of his life
-nap times, and the chance to use that time this week to create some gifts for loved ones
-the blessing and gift of a newly discovered pregnancy for our friends, and knowing that Noah will have another playmate in 8 months
-paperbackswap.com... receiving several "new to me" books from them recently, especially The Discipline Book, which I am enjoying reading right now
-the way the Lord is teaching and growing Jeremy and I right now, and that He's uniting us through it
-the smells of cumin, paprika, garlic, chili powder, oregano, and bay filling my house in anticipation of spicy chicken enchiladas and Cuban black beans for dinner tonight
-being "neighborly"... being able to pick up groceries from the store for our neighbors, and being able to borrow some salt when I ran out yesterday

1 Thessalonians 5:18  give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.