Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Gratitude: A Season --A Lifestyle


This is the season for giving thanks, my favorite holiday of the year.  Thanksgiving will soon arrive along with our children, in-loves, grands, and one granddog, Tucker.   Having our family under one roof is a blessing, one we do not take lightly. 

For the past few days we have been preparing for the gathering.  Meals planned, groceries bought, emails and texts going back and forth, turkeys thawing, bathrooms cleaned, and fresh smells coming from the kitchen as I bake bread, cookies, and pies to grace our tables.  We are so thankful that our home will be bursting at the seams with love and laughter when 11 adults and 10 grandkids come home. 

Thankful.  We are so very thankful for each and every one and what they bring to the mix.  Each of our children and their families live life a little differently.  Each one has made their own way in the world that surrounds us, making choices and staying busy with all that defines family, so on the rare occasion that we come together as one unit Joel and I feel a deep sense of gratitude. 

We also remember those who are not here, including our son Kevin who has been gone nearly 10 years now.  We remember, too, the years that Lyme disease stole from us....but we do not dwell there.  We spend our time grateful that those years are behind us.  We give thanks that our children are whole and healthy.  We give thanks that they know who God is and call Jesus their Savior!  Oh, yes, we are humbly grateful.

We have so much to give praise for.  Our blessings overflow during this season and throughout the year. Ann Voskamp has written a powerful book about counting our blessings.  "One Thousand Gifts" ~She shares that it is in the gratitude that we find joy, peace, grace. An every single day choice for gratitude.   Gratitude is a lifestyle, not only a day filled with family, friends, food and football. 

Most of you will gather with family or with your memories during this season of giving thanks.  I pray you have an abundance of blessings to lift in praise.  I pray you have the love of God and family to warm your hearts.  I pray your table, your home, and your heart is full.  And I give thanks for you who visit my cyber home.  See you Saturday!


3 comments:

NanaNor's said...

Dear Renee, I am thankful for you and Joel-for your walk and faith and encouragement to me this year. Praying you feel perfectly and enjoy a home overflowing with love and grace.
Hugs, Noreen

Anita Johnson said...

Happy Thanksgiving to you and Joel! I am thankful for you!

Gayle said...

I too feel my heart well up with overflowing Thanksgiving this year. The pastor has taught the month of November on the word "blessed", such a good word, we are blessed indeed!