Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Monday Gratitude a little late!

I am grateful to have such a wonderful family. My parents & DH's parents are more than willing to help us w/ DS anytime its necessary. With all the help we receive, we still have our struggles, but we always know we have someone to help us through them.

I also have the good example of child rearing from my parents! Its so awesome when I think that they've been married for 34 years this year! They've never hidden the normal conflicts that come w/ marriage. They also never hid the fact that they truly love & respect each other! I know I am blessed to have them in my life!

They have truly given me an example to follow. As Catholics family life is very important to us. Together my parents have raised 3 children within the Church. They never forced things on us, but taught us right from wrong early on (although we didn't/don't always listen) in our lives.

My dad is a convert, but his faith is as strong or stronger than some cradle Catholics I know. His trust and perserverence have shown me that even a guy as big and strong as my dad (6'4" tall w/ arms as big as my legs), needs help from Above. Hopefully, I've learned from him that I too need help, both from Above and from my family. He is truly the head of the household w/o being a dictator or tyrant. The gentleness of his hands is impressive - especially when seen cradling a newborn baby's head. That image always makes me think of my Heavenly Father cradling all of us in His Hands.

My mom truly tries to live her life in the image of the Blessed Mother or as she likes to say St. Monica (praying for the re-conversion of her children). There have been rough times for my mom - most recently a struggle w/ breast cancer (the same type that killed her mother and grandmother, and more). Through the whole struggle she maintained her faith and strength of character. Although my dad is head of the household, my mom is the core strength of it. She is always ready w/ advice, solutions, and encouragement when necessary. When I think of my mom I see images of Mary w/ Jesus during the hidden times of His youth and in the background of His ministry. That's my mom, she plays a very vital role, but usually relegates herself to the background.

I just hope Andrew & I can do the same w/ Simon (& any little ones that follow)!

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