THE PARKS FAMILY: A new nephew to our family mix

I have a brand new nephew....Bryson Rauch, 6th child to proud parents Bill & Olga, was born July 1, 2008. He was 9lbs 2 oz & 20 1/2 inches long. Mom & baby are resting well at home.

THINGS I AM THANKFUL FOR:

· Being blessed this year with motherhood. The transition from couple to family. My little son has brought so much happiness when I thought my life couldn’t get any better.
· Scott, my loving husband. For showing me daily that “great guys” really do exist and not just in fairy tales. For inspiring me to be a better person.
· Being a housewife & a mom. It’s not such a sacrifice for the material things I want when I get to witness firsthand all his milestones.
· My mom, who leads us by example. Her devotion she has towards my brother Jay. The glue that holds us together.
· My dad…I still miss you.
· My siblings. I am so glad that we not only love each other because we are family, but we actually like each other too. I love that we all lay across each other on the couch at moms intertwined, which I deem totally normal behavior.
· Friends…to enjoy life with. Real friends to laugh & cry with.
· For the gospel of Jesus Christ and hope it brings to my life.
· My freedom of speech, including my freedom of religion.
· For faithful service men and women who protect our country.
· My good health.
· FAITH…Being eternally optimistic... that things will not always be how I want it or planned it to be, but it always seems to work out.
· Forgiveness...for giving & receiving it. I am not perfect...nor do I want to be.
· Service with a smile.
· LOVE.