Family, Raking Leaves, and Good-Night Kisses

Yesterday I was stunned and heartbroken to learn that my cousin's little girl - not quite two years old - was diagnosed with leukemia.  I hugged my little guy extra tight last night and kept my cousin and his family in my thoughts, where they will remain until we receive the news that their little girl has fully recovered.  

This week's Three Beautiful Things:

1.  My family.  Upon hearing the horrible news, the entire family network sprung into action.  I can feel the love and support being sent to that little girl in Chicago, so I'm confident that she can feel it too.  

Anything else pales in comparison, but let us not forget to focus on the everyday beauty in our lives and not take anything for granted...

2.  The simple pleasure of raking leaves.  For me, it's the resulting sore arms and clean yard that provide satisfaction, as well as spending the day outside in the crisp Fall air.  For my boys, it's the fun of running through and jumping into leaf piles. 

3.  I went in to check on the boys before heading to bed, as I always do.  When I kissed my little one on his forehead, he opened his eyes and said, "Wait!  Mama, I forgot to give you a kiss!"  Then he sat up and gave me a wet one right on the lips.  It was 10:30 and he had been in bed and asleep for three hours. After planting a kiss on me, he smiled and fell face down back onto his pillow.  

Do me a favor, will you?  Send some positive thoughts out into the universe toward this little cutie...

photo by her mom at The Smallest Sparrow photography