The rule is, newlyweds have one year to write and send thank you notes. So, I figure, if they get one year, then I can get one day to list my gratitude, right? After all, it is never too late to be thankful.
In the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, I spent a good deal of time pondering God’s abundance. His providence is so faithful, so generous, so sure for this family of ours. It is easy to forget where the blessings come from or to wish for more. It is difficult for me, a pessimist, to see the good, the silver lining. However, when I look back to the Source of this abundance, I can see clearly the beauty present in all that surrounds me. And so this week, I am thankful for:
– friends who spend their evenings with us, surrounding us with good conversation, good food and good cheer.
– surprises. Like Elisabeth coming home for the week. How we all missed her!
– friends who do crazy things for us like paint rooms, drive across the state, lay tile, scrub our tub, and clean like mad. I am breathing so much easier because of those guys!
– being a part of a family who serves guacamole and jalapeño stuffing for Thanksgiving.
– family that lives in town. And family that visits.
– a mom who saw labor and birth as a powerful thing and shot straight about it all. She gave me the foundation and courage for what we are about to do.
– growing up in a family that taught me how to be daring in the kitchen. Creme Brûlée and apple pie in the same week? Heck yes.
– the many, many skills my family passed down that make me say, “I can do that!”
– a country that lets us educate our children at home.
– a home filled with warmth and groceries and laughter and love.
– four crazy kiddos. Here’s hoping this next one is as vibrant as the rest!
– a loving and forgiving husband who runs errands and grocery shops and wrestles with kids and massages feet in addition to working his tail off to provide for us. The way he loves us is incredible.
– mercy and justice and sweet, sweet salvation. God’s enduring love takes my breath away.
I hope yesterday was beautiful for you and yours. I’d love to hear what your thankful for!
