So many things to be Thankful for

Yes this is the season that we all start thinking about all the things that we are thankful for. This year has been an interesting one in that we have heard a lot of doom and gloom. Everyone is worried about the Economy, how to raise our children in such a world, and so on. Today I have had a little time to put things in perspective. So bear with me because this post is more for my benefit.

Let me just start with the fact that Billy and I have always been very blessed, but looking back at the last year I think has been an eye opener for me.

1. Last year at this time Billy was drenched with tons of work. I can remember wondering if I would ever get a date night out of him. He was however bringing in quite a few nice paychecks that we had a lot of fun with.

2. Last year I knew we were suppose to have another baby, but had come to the conclusion that it would probably never happen because I wanted Billy to also know it, and he was just not feeling it.

3. Last year we had quite a few loved ones who were going through a really hard time. It is really hard to watch those you love struggling.

This year.....

1. Because of the economy Billy's work has changed a bit. Many of his clients are really struggling, so the Rowley's aren't having as much fun spending money. (Before I go on, just let me note that we are doing fine. I don't want anyone picking the Rowley family as a Christmas project or anything. Lol.) We are however spending a lot of time together as a family, and let me just say, this is soooooo much better than not ever getting to see Billy. Our kids are learning that they can't have everything that they want, and the thing is they are being so great about it. Sometimes I don't think we give our kids credit. I feel like we are becoming so close as a family. WHAT A BLESSING FOR US!!!!

2. Billy came to me in May and said, "Karen I really feel like we are suppose to have another baby", OK, where did that come from? In Billy's defense his biggest worry on having another baby was my health. So I went and saw my doctor in June and he said everything looked surprisingly good. It didn't take long because in August we found out we were expecting our 5th. I guess this little spirit is ready to come. In our home we have lots of discussions on whether we get to have a boy or a girl. We also have lots of options for what I would call interesting names.

3. We have seen our loved ones lives change dramatically for the good. We have become closer to family members and have really gotten to see the best in the ones we love. It is amazing to see in our own lives how trials bring us closer to our Heavenly Father. I have gained a stronger testimony of our Heavenly Father's plan, the power of forgiveness, and I have really come to know for myself how much he loves each and every one of us. Even more though is seeing my children's testimonies strengthened. They have prayed and have seen our Heavenly Fathers mercies. They have such simple faith and it just reminds me that I need to become more like them. I have seen them serving each other more, playing with each other more, and developing relationships with each other that will carry on forever.


These are just a few of the blessings the Rowley's have received this year. Aren't we so blessed!!!!!!

To top it off tonight Billy and I got the chance to go to the temple and go to a sealing. Our friends Fawn and Devon Mortensen just adopted their 4th little boy. Tonight they got to bring all their little boys to the temple, and have Jack sealed for Time And All Eternity to them. I remember about a year ago they thought they weren't going to get Jack. Tonight in the temple though, there was no question that he belongs in the Mortensen Family. Thanks Fawn and Devon for letting us be there for your special day!

Now that is true happiness!!!!!!