Is this really an award...

...or a desperate attempt to actually get me to blog! I'll take it, though, for whatever it's worth, Denise! There is a stipulation, however, in receiving this prestigious award...you must list 7 things you are grateful for. I think I can handle that!

1. Autumn--this is my favorite season. I love seeing the leaves change into beautiful colors. I love the crisp weather (not cold, I said crisp). I love pumpkins and pumpkin food, Halloween and apple cider, wearing sweaters and boots,...I wish it could last longer!
2. My sweet, sweet husband. I sure wish we were still on vacation. I loved spending so much time with him. I love his dedication to his family, work and church responsibilities--he has a knack for finding the perfect balance between them all. I never feel alone--even when he's away, I know he is supporting me.
3. My children. They challenge me, they encourage me, thy make me laugh (and cry). I love watching them grow and seeing their personalities develop. I love how forgiving and accepting they are--they are such an example to me.
4. The gym. Who knew that I would ever be so grateful for this little outlet in my life. I look forward to going, seeing friends and working my butt off every day! And even though I'm not '"losing" loads of weight (that's because I eat what I want), I feel awesome.
5. Great friends. I don't need a lot of them to be happy, but I am so fortunate to have some super friends! It's nice to always know that I have friends I can talk to and who are always looking out for me. I've learned that true friendship extends past boundary lines and I am so grateful for that!
6. My family. I sure wish I could see them more often. I am so fortunate to have great in-laws (parent, brother, sister). I am so glad that my kids look forward to seeing their cousins, aunts uncles, grand parents. I am so grateful to Susanne for coming out and watching the kiddos and that they got some good quality time with her. I'm excited to head up to PA for Thanksgiving and see everyone. I love them all!
7. The Gospel. My knowledge of the Savior and of our Heavenly Father is one of my greatest blessings. I am so grateful to know who I am and to know and understand my purpose.

I would now like to share this award with some creative bloggers that I know!! Lucky you!
Check out their blogs while you're at it!!

Katie (such a crafty gal and great blogger)
Suzy (private blog, but she's such an awesome writer--you're all missing out)
Audrey (she has the creative food/party bug, sure wish she lived closer)
Heather (she designed my blog and super creative, too)
Emily (love her writing, too--she should do more of it...)