I AM THANKFUL

So it’s that time of year – a time when everything and everyone around me are reminders to be thankful. I am truly thankful every day for so many things & so many people in my life, and I know I should probably say it more often than I do.

I AM THANKFUL FOR JILLIAN. I am thankful for the quiet spirit that God has given her. I am thankful that her quiet spirit allows her to sit back and take everything in. I am thankful that she desires to do the right thing and make good choices, and I am thankful that she doesn’t always have to be right and can let things go.

I AM THANKFUL FOR MALLORY. I am thankful that her sensitive spirit enables her to care for others. I am thankful that a year ago she committed to sponsoring a child on her own. I am thankful that this year she has given up her monthly lunch money & packs her own lunch every day so that she can send Litzy $30 every month. I am thankful that she is not afraid to let others know that she loves Jesus.

I AM THANKFUL FOR PETER. I am thankful that after 16 plus years, he is still as committed to me and our family as he was in the beginning. I am thankful that once again he is able to do things that he loves – golf, hockey, cigars w/ friends… I am thankful for dates and quiet moments with him.

I AM THANKFUL FOR MY MOM. I am thankful that her servant’s heart is an example to us all. I am thankful that she loves her grandchildren and loves, loves, loves being a part of their lives in the little ways like picking them up from school and the big ways like taking them on special trips. I am thankful that her love for the Lord has been passed on from generation to generation.

I AM THANKFUL FOR MY SISTERS. I am thankful that they live close and we get to be part of each others lives. I am thankful that they love my girls like their very own.

I AM THANKFUL FOR MY BROTHERS. I am thankful that they are strong men who lead lives of integrity. I am thankful for the practical ways they show that they love us.

I AM THANKFUL FOR FRIENDS - near and far. I am thankful for friends who have been our family. I am thankful for moments of laughter and moments of tears. I am thankful that Mallory & Jillian have seen examples of amazing friendships and how those friendships have enriched our lives.

Most of all, I AM THANKFUL FOR A GOD WHO LOVES ME. I am thankful that no matter how many times I make a mess of things, He never leaves. I am thankful for His protection over our family, and I am thankful for the life He has so graciously allowed me to have.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

(Oh, one more thing - I am thankful that this Thanksgiving all of my brothers and sisters will be together for the first time in over 10 years!!!)