Thankful Thursday

I spoke too soon when I said the heat wave was over. I don't do so well over 30C. But, no one wants to hear me complaining about the weather so here we go. What am I thankful for this week?

I am thankful for:

1. A good family bike ride. I wanted something safe (no cars or pedestrians) and beautiful. Lower Seymour has a great path that's about 11 km long. We only did 6 km (each way) as it was hilly and we wanted to keep it a positive experience.

2. The Trail-a-bike. Although Nya can bike on her own she is still very much a beginner so this allows her to keep up with the rest of the crew. I highly recommend them! We got ours secondhand for $60. Nya has been on iron and vitamin C for the past month for her anemia. We haven't noticed an energy difference in her but she hasn't lost more hair so that's good.

3. Our 12-year-old! This is wild since I vividly remember this age. I was fully into teenage hormones at this time and he's not nearly as emotional as I was but I'm sure there are some stronger feelings to come. He's a great kid and I'm trying to remember not to expect too much (re: acting like an adult) as I know a thing or two about being the oldest. 

4. Koen having a good summer. He loves his slow mornings and lots of free time. I'm a tad nervous about how September will go for him.

5. Beach day! I often want to travel to new places and forget the beauty in our own "backyard". Great morning at White Rock beach with the kids. We're not big beach people but we enjoyed 1.5 hours there...especially baby!

6. That we said "yes" to fostering. I made our 2017 photobook and we realized throughout the year we had five extra kids in our home. It was a busy year. I think a lot of people assume that we just love little kids and that is not what drives it; I would love a break from parenting kids under the age of ten ;) We do love each child but what encourages us to keep going in the fostering world is that we see what a difference we can make in our own community.

7. Celebrating the in-laws 50th wedding anniversary in Harrison. The adults all went to Harrison Hot Springs for a night and it was great to spend time together without the interruption of a million children.

8. Nana Jo for watching our kids! We don't really have anyone to watch our kids other than Gary's parents so we're so thankful my stepmom Joanne said "yes". Our kids aren't the easiest but thankfully it went well and she has A/C. Hope you're okay with this photo, Nana Jo; I'm impressed you got in the pool with them!

9. A new office chair. I was looking for two on Craigslist as the boys will be getting their own desks this fall and then I found a new one at our neighbour's house in the alley. We live in a great neighbourhood for some quality stuff. Would you pick up free furniture?

10. A new book club book! I don't have as much time to read right now but always love having one on the go.

What is something that you are thankful for today?

Love,

Louise