30 Days of Thanksgiving: Day 23

Today we got to go and see my Aunt Linda and then the kids and I packed up to head to the Quad Cities. We arrived and were able to see Michael's sister and her family and Michael's mom.  So nice to know that our vacation is only half way through!

I haven't given a days of thanksgiving to the little man in my life...and these past few days with him just make me so incredibly thankful for him and his spirit.  I know some people see Jackson coming and probably cringe at his 'energy' and for a long time I used to apologize for his free spirit and independence...but truth be told I love it about him.  This kid has forever changed my world and although we butt heads quite a bit (I think it has something to do with birth order and stubbornness perhaps? ;)) he brings so much joy into my life.

I think he has the gift of woo.  Seriously.  He entertains crowds...with no fear.  It's so fun when kids start to become your entertainment and he is just that.  He is just so energetic and it is contagious.  I love it about it.  His obsession with John Deere leaves people laughing historically and his adult-like conversation makes him even more endearing.

He is super empathetic.  Are you sad mommy?  Are you frustrated?  Are you mad?  High EQ this kiddo has.  My sister claims that one time she was 'fake crying' and he was watching her and cried real tears!

He loves on his little sis...with such affection.  Of course he crowds her a little bit too but he is getting so good about coming to her and loving on her.  He even yells from his room when she is crying in her room, "It's okay Addie."  :)  

Jackson is so stinkin' independent...and while that means a lot of redirecting at a young age I am certain it means leadership in the future.  

I can't believe how much he has stolen my heart and our world.  I understand what people say when they say they want to give their kids the world.  It makes my heart swell when people want to see him.  Going home, my cousin and godson Kolby, calls and asks if he can come over so he can see Jackson.  

Having him teaches me about the love of God every single day.  About what it means to love a child, about trust and faith and about not being in control and I am so thankful for him.