This past weekend we were able to spend time with Marshall’s brother and his wife at their new home in the mountains.
With the exception of some crazy sleeping arrangements, the weekend was perfect.
(With 4 small kids, sleeping away from home is always the hardest part for any of our travels.)
I am thankful for family – my little(big) family and our extended family.
The weather was not too hot and not too cold.
The leaves were past their peak, but still pretty.
We climbed rocks and splashed in puddles.
We had a campfire and played shadow games.
I am thankful for nature and how it makes me feel connected to my Creator and the universe.
Our drive back home went faster than I thought it would.
(Probably because I slept most of the way.)
I am thankful for technology that allows us to travel, movies that allow us some peace in the car,
And Marshall, who never complains about driving.
We made it back just in time to go to my favorite church service of the year.
Once a year our small town has all of the churches together for one service.
We sing and blend our worship styles, feeling the Spirit wrap around us and pull us closer.
I can’t stop myself from singing (in my head):
“Jesus love the little children.
All the children of the world.
Every color, every race –
We’re all covered by God’s grace.
Jesus loves the little children of the world.”
I am thankful that we are free to worship our own way,
And that we can celebrate our differences while holding fast to our own traditions.
On our drive home from church, we see Christmas lights up.
The oldest asks “Why does it seem like everyone is forgetting Thanksgiving?”
And I have no reply.
I am thankful for children who understand the importance of giving thanks,
Who teach me daily what it means to really love and be grateful.
What are you thankful for?
I am thankful for God’s love and forgiveness, my parents’ teaching me to love God and others, my husband’s sweet love, my daughter’s MANY gifts that she shares with everyone so freely, my son’s musical gifts that makes others’ so happy, my son-in-law’s love for children at his own home and his office, my oldest’s grandson’s gift for details, my oldest granddaughter’s love for reading, my youngest grandson’s incredible zest for life, my baby granddaughter’s infectious smiles, a job that I love( at least most of the time), a church that I love, old friends. I know there are many more!!
I’m grateful for Cathy for raising such a wonderful daughter!! Thanks for being an uplifting part of my days Bridget!