I was putting up outside Christmas decorations and some visitors noticed us outside and stopped by. They were so nice and even invited us to the fire station!

To someday be THIS fabulous!!

Abby just brought me a ring, two bracelets and a necklace. She said, “Happy Thanks Mothers Giving Day!”

I was having a particularly crummy day. And by the time we were putting the girls to bed – I was just DONE. Abby and Hannah were keyed up as usual. And finally I just said, “Girls, let’s just get this done. I am sad. Really sad. I’m having a rough day.” We just kept going along with the evening routine and the girls were still pretty crazy. I finally made my way to Abby’s room and I sat on her bed waiting to help her. She came in the room screaming and jumping and I just looked at her and said, “Please Abby.”

She stopped — and walked up to me and asked if she could give me a hug. It was a long hug. A good hug. In fact, it lasted so long, I was able to sit and contemplate how THIS was good. THIS moment is what I need to focus on when things get rough. THESE arms (that took a few years and a few dollars to get) wrapped around my neck so tightly. THIS is most important. Then she stopped hugging me and took one step back. She got a great big smile on her face and said, “Did I fill your bucket?” It was all I could do to not start crying. Yes. Yes my bucket was full! I told her, “Yes!” And then she said, “Is it overflowing? Because mine is overflowing!”

She can drive me completely crazy sometimes – but most of the time she brings me right where I need to be. I love you Abigail! My bucket is overflowing!!!