A day full of little, giant reasons to close my eyes and thank my God for the blessings He is pouring on our family. A no-school morning, which equaled a laid back awakening... laying in bed in my husband's arms talking about our day, our life. Listening to our beautiful son say hello to the world with "da-das" and "oohhs".

We went out as a family raking leaves. It was a cool, crisp morning. Trying to rake with a sweet baby in your arms is far less efficient, but the whole experience is more fun.  Cooper bundled up in camo chasing his daddy wanting to be just like him. I even jumped on the tarp for a ride across the lawn, much to Shane's amazement and Cooper's smiles.

I love my little life. I feel like I am just beginning to really see my life for the beautiful thing God is making of it. I spent so long wishing for what I thought I always wanted, practicing smiles and imagining my life when I would be truly happy. It became a way of life, to put on a fake smile and nod, to try and makeself sound grateful for what I had when secretly I envied the life of so many others. I have all the things I thought then that would be the keys to that real, deep down smile: an amazing husband, a beautiful son, a cozy place we call home ... and yet I know that the real reason I'm beginning to smile from the inside is because I'm seeing more of God. He is revealing to me that He IS the source of my life, and all that is in it.

Thank you, Lord, for drawing me close and beginning to teach me to desire to give you not just a part, but all of my heart. Put your hand upon families who are without loved ones today as a result of their sacrifice to serve our country and you on this Veterans Day.

Is this thing on?

This is a test. For me. No one else but God knows I'm starting this blog (yet). He's the reason I'm starting it, and the only way it will continue. (shout out to Judie Blume: Are you there, God? It's me, Leslie :)  ). Here goes my nothing, as I'm just beginning to figure out that He is my everything ...