Happy Thanksgiving

I sit here tonight full of excitement knowing that this time tomorrow, I will be with the ones I love celebrating Thanksgiving.

This Thanksgiving is a little different from years past. This year, loved ones are coming to our house to gather and feast. I have busied myself today making all the side dishes. It's nothing fancy, just all  the traditional favorites like green bean casserole, corn souffle, sweet potato casserole, and creamy mashed potatoes. My aunt is coming with cranberry sauce in hand, and of course the dinner wouldn't be complete without my mother-in-law's dressing. I will wake up tomorrow morning and make the turtle trifle, cranberry bog pie, and roast the turkey.

The table is set and ready for all of us to come together and give thanks. I loved every minute of setting the table because for the first time, I am using the china and silver that belonged to my aunt. There is going to be plenty of laughter, great conversation, delicious food and I can't wait.

I've been thinking a lot this week about all that I am thankful for. Really, it's been something that I have been trying to be more purposeful in throughout this last year - having a heart of thanks. Isn't it so easy to get caught up in the busyness and mundane activities of life and forget or tire of being thankful. I began looking around, at everything, and realizing that the little and ordinary things as well as the huge and significant can ignite a thankful heart.

So, with the approach of Thanksgiving tomorrow, I wanted to simply record just some of the things in which I am thankful.

The gift of salvation.

A house in which memories are made and grace is displayed. A house where fun happens, friends and family gather, and love is shared. A house where forgiveness and encouragement is given. A house that reflects His love. A house that we call home.

Laughter.

My husband and true soulmate. We couldn't be any different in personalities and things that make us tick. We have gone through so much and the one constant theme in our marriage is that we know very well how faithful God is. 

Friendships. 

The truth that God knows our future and we can trust in Him completely.

Simple things like slippers, music, cozy quilts, and good books.

I am thankful that my children are walking in the truth.

A car that in spite of requiring major work this summer and costing us way too much, still runs and gets us where we need to go. 

My parents and in-laws who have given us a heritage of faith. There is no one who loves and supports us more than they do and I am so grateful.

That my mornings began with a phone call to my sister. I am also thankful for the precious, little voice of my niece who brightens my day just by saying, "hi".

Our church.

My new job.

Having the time and opportunity to pursue hobbies I love- riding horses, cooking, photography, reading, journaling and sewing. 

A transformed and revived heart.

That three wonderful children call me Mom. 

Happy Thanksgiving.

Dear Ben

Today we are celebrating your 13th birthday and celebrating the gift you are to us. While I know that each year you celebrate being another year older, this particular birthday will be marked with great significance.

As you begin your journey through this teenage years, I pray that you enjoy them to the fullest. I want you to remember that while things may change around you, God is always faithful, He loves you, and has your very best interest at heart. 

I pray that you walk closely with the Lord and you learn new things about His character.

I pray that God continues to build up in you the passions, desires and gifts you have. I want you to always remember that He has given you these as a way to glorify and serve Him. I see more and more your desire to worship the Lord in everything you do, Ben. Let that be the way you always live.

I also pray for you that you will continue to boldly share your faith with those around you. You have learned that it isn't always about the words you say, but how you live that draws them to Jesus.

Ben, you are such a gift to me. You know how to make me laugh at just the right time and from you, I learn what it means to truly live in the moment. 

You value friendships, family and fun times. You are a young man that consistently displays integrity and a good heart. 

I love you so very much, Ben and there isn't a day that goes by in which I don't thank God for giving me the gift of you.

Cranberry Bog Pie

Today, I am guest posting over at Kim's blog Quit Eating Out, so please join me there and make sure to check out all of her delicious recipes!

I am sharing one of our favorite recipes for this time of year...

Cranberry Bog Pie...

Enjoy your weekend!