Thankful Thursday - a little late on Monday morning

I promised myself I would do "Thankful Thursday" last week, then it kept escaping me, and since I clearly have much to be grateful for, I decided to simply get stop and get it done (instead of getting ready for work this morning). :)

1. Niece Diva arriving safely this week. What a doll.....here she is with her shades until the jandice lamp. She is now 3 lbs, 6 oz but doing amazingly well.2. My sister-in-law, who I know is already a great mom - and will continue to dazzle me throughout Niece Diva's life. And p.s., doesn't at all look like she gave birth a few days ago. Based on the photos I've seen, I'm pretty sure she's already back to life as normal....I am so impressed!
3. My brother, who is such a little doll with the camera taking and sending pics of Niece Diva. Literally I already have 2 dozen photos of this girl....in 4 days....every few hours I get another picture or two via email or text. I am so grateful for his hands-on approach and total involvement, as he has jumped right into the "dad thing".

4. My cute parents as they truly live the "sandwich generation" of having super time intensive parents to care for (literally), while they have children and now a grandchild they are also watching over (figuratively).

5. A terribly painful work situation. I am not usually able to be emotionally intelligent enough to say I am "grateful for adversity", but this time, I am trying to be appreciative for the opportunity to expand my thinking and skills, as I did learn a great deal from this not fantastic situation.

6. Two of my best friends celebrating my birthday early this weekend. They gave me presents on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday - as well as cupcakes and a great deal of time spent together. It was simply wonderful.

7. A dear friend who recently moved, but keeps in touch often and helps give me perspective when things go awry at work. Keep fighting the good fight with that graphic designer gal - and Go Cowboys!

8. The Rangers fans who think they have a shot at beating the Yankees in the ALCS. Their optimism brings a smile to my face. We're going to keep the series tight for entertainment value, but come on peeps....this is The New York Yankees. We're just warming for either the Giants or the Phillies!

9. Autumn. Love this season. This is the most beautiful time of the year.10. Umm....did I mention Niece Diva is already a Halloween fan too? Of course she is....and for that I'm grateful!