Thanksgiving '09

It's almost 7:00 p.m., and our Thanksgiving Day is pretty much over. We're already in our "hanging out" clothes (a.k.a. pajamas) and feeling too full (STILL), somewhat sleepy, and ever so blessed. We had the joy of celebrating Thanksgiving with each of our four amazing children and our beautiful daughter-in-law. In addition, David's two sisters, brother-in-law, nephew, and cousin were here as well as one of my brothers, his wife, and son. All in all, we had a group of 16......a small group compared to some of our other family gatherings!

As I reflect on the day, I realize how very much I have to be thankful for......things that I so often take for granted in the chaos of every day life. Of course, I will be forever grateful to my Lord for sparing our sweet Jonathon and giving him a future. I am thankful to have a God who loves me in spite of myself. I think, though, that too often as I recognize the miracle of Jonathon, I sometimes overlook many of the other blessngs of my life. Things like:
1. My amazing husband of over 33 years and the love that has grown stronger through each of our joys, sorrows, and trials.

2. The beauty of living in the same home for over 30 years--a home where we raised our four beautiful children.
3. Our son, Taylor, who is married to his "true companion"--a blessing beyond words--who has grown into a man of honor and integrity and who continues to be a source of immense pride.

4. Our daughter, Blair, who has grown into a beautiful, strong, amazing young woman--someone who makes me incredibly proud to call her my daughter, as well as my friend.

5. Our son, Jonathon, who is alive today purely by the grace of God and who knows that God has a very special purpose for his life.

6. Our son, Jeff, whose strength never ceases to amaze me--whose loyalty to Jonathon and concern for his future is beyond measure, the kind of loyalty that is based on a bond that has only grown stronger over the years.

7. My brothers, David's sisters, and their families--through the years we have become each other's support systems. Through the laughter and the tears, we've "been there" for each other, and I am eternally grateful.

8. My wonderful friends and co-workers who tolerate me and embrace me in spite of my shortcomings.

9. A church family that has grown more precious to us with the passing of time, a group that rallied around us in our greatest time of need and made sure that our needs were met.

10. Parents who left a legacy of love and the importance of family. The lessons they taught and the memories they left impact our lives every day and will, hopefully, carry through to the next generation.

My list seems pitifully short in comparison to the mulitude of blessings in my life. I pray that I never forget to be thankful.