We are home 24 hours earlier than planned from our vacation.

Yesterday was supposed to be filled with the annual extended family 4th of July weekend festivities and fun at the lake.

Instead, we were driving home with two sick boys, then headed to the doctor to find out they both have strep.

Bummer.

But even as we all had a restless night of sleep Saturday, I couldn’t help but think how I am blessed.

Even though I wanted to be mad that I wasn’t getting any sleep, I just gazed at their sweet, but miserable little faces and thanked the Lord that we are the ones who get to take care of them.

The hubby and I had just arrived back from a glorious getaway as the boys were getting sick, but every ounce of my being wanted to be right there – fevers, sore throats and all – because our boys needed us.

And those moments, no matter how crummy they may be, help me grasp the fullness of the blessings of motherhood.

A few more of the many blessings in my life this week…

521. Just the hubby and I for three days.

522. In the Arizona sun.

523. With nothing at all scheduled to do.

524. And lots of lazy river time.

525. Another fabulous annual getaway. {more on this soon!}

526. The boys having a super fun time with grandparents and aunt and uncle!

527. Books that change the way you think.

528. Time to read those kinds of books.

529. Safe flights.

530. Being back in my own bed.

531. The boys sleeping peacefully through massive neighborhood fireworks.

532. Life moving forward.

533. 10 months left of med school for the hubby! 4th year starts tomorrow!

534. Patriotic music.

535. The Christian heritage of our forefathers.

536. The sacrifices made for our freedom.

537. Those who continue to serve and protect this great country.

538. “One nation, under God.”

539. “Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” ~2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT)

540. A reason to celebrate! Happy Fourth of July everyone!

*****

We’re laying low at home today due to the strep, so tell me what YOU are doing this Independence Day!