Ten little things...

You know, given the past couple of months and the couple of stressful situations we have encountered, I am really just grateful for the small things that make us happy.

1. Getting woken up by Hayden licking my face and saying, "Hello, Time to Get Up because I love you!"
Who cares if it's 5 am and we want to sleep in. I'll never get that moment back...ever...

2. Watching Matt and Hayden make up elaborate rules to the car racing game they play.
All too soon, Hayden will think he's too cool to race cars across the living room with us.

3. Hayden asking 57 times a day where Mee-Maw is.
There is something very special between the two of them. Kindred spirits I suppose.

4. Getting to spend these precious few months staying at home with my little boy.
Losing a job is extremely difficult, but Hayden has made me feel far more fulfilled than any job I have ever or will ever have. Going back to work when I get a job will probably break my heart.

5. Chocolate pudding
Who knew a simple little cup of chocolate pudding could really put a smile on a child's face? When Hayden sits down and sees I have placed it on his little table for him, his eyes light up and he always says, "I love chocolate pudding Mommy, thank you!"

6. Reading the same book over and over and over again.
I will never forget one single word of "One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish". I hope when I am 90 in a nursing home, my precious little boy will come read that book to me, as I did for him.

7. Hearing Hayden exclaim, "When my big, I go to work like my daddy"
Hayden wants to be just like his daddy in every way, and I know he is following a wonderful example because Matt is the best Father any mom could ask for.

8. Watching Buster (our miniachure pinscher) follow Hayden all over the house to make sure he is clean and happy.
It is so true that boys really bond with their dogs, no matter what size they are. Even a 10-pound dog can be so playful and protective. That dog would NEVER let anything happen to Hayden and that's a very special thing.

9. Laying in bed every night next to our kid, just listening to him breathe and snore.
There is no amount of money or success in the world that could replace that sound...it's priceless and it is pure success.

10. Seeing Hayden and his friend M throwing a single balloon across the room, laughing histarically, and throwing themselves on the floor.
Hayden is so loyal and is very thankful for his friends. I hope he never loses that.