Thankful

Every night, Olivia has a similar bedtime routine.  Upstairs, brush teeth, bath time, put on "jammers", brush hair, read a book, and a few minutes of rocking time with Mommy or Daddy while we say a bedtime prayer.

The bedtime prayer is simple and sweet.  It usually consists of "Thank You, God for keeping us safe today and for your care of the people in our lives.  Mommy, Daddy, etc etc." where several family members are named and occasionally a few friends on our minds or those we've seen that day.  I've gotten into the habit of praying specifically for Olivia and baby brother afterward and for extra special concerns in our hearts.  A few times when I've forgotten or been too tired myself, Olivia has asked, "Mommy, pray for Yaya now?"  And once, she said, "Mommy, more Jesus, please."  I have come to honestly feel like this, although is simply a part of her routine, really has become something that nourishes my baby girl internally.  I've also noticed a big change in her bad dreams and fears on the nights we've talked and said a little prayer for her.

Tonight (mostly out of curiosity for what she'd say), I asked her to say the bedtime prayer and it was the sweetest thing.  She said, "Dear God, thank you for Mommy, Daddy, baby brother Ethan, Nonna, Grandad, Max, Audrey, Jeffrey, Pistol, Jacky, Grandma Shelly, Papa Mike, Grandma, Papa, Casey, Anthony, Connor, Tara and Jesus Thank you, Amen"  I was impressed she didn't leave out a single 'first relative' and even named the doggies! Then, (knowing that Daddy went out tonight for a guys night but having no idea where he went) she said "and keep Daddy safe at... hmm.. Walmart and Target and church... and for Mommy... and for Nonna's house with pizza.. and the flashlight time outside with Grandad.. Amen"

A few weeks ago, when Daddy was traveling in Europe, we said special prayers to keep him safe... which must've been triggered when he left tonight.. although, he rarely goes to Walmart and Target :)  And since he was out, we had a pizza night at Nonna and Grandad's house.  Which she was very thankful for :)

What a sweet memory for this Momma..

No matter what your personal beliefs are, I wanted to share this and hope it touches you in some way during this season of giving thanks!