I am thankful for.....

• My baby Becky who has a quick wit, a charming smile and a spicy outlook on life
• My precious Katie, with her huge heart, her forgiving nature and her big smile
• Matt's easy going nature, his sensitive spirit and his humble nature
• Ashlee's love for the Lord, her family and her friends
• My husband's unfailing faithfulness to God's call on our lives, his leadership of our household and his sense of humor
• The abundant provisions in our lives - our home, Doug's job, our friends
• The power of prayer
• The protection Matt received last Wednesday in his skateboarding accident

The list could go on for miles. As I sat to compose all that I am thankful for this year, the blessings - even through some trials - have been overflowing. The common thread is that none of these blessings are through our own making or efforts - they have all been provided through the grace & goodness and mercy of our Father in heaven. Even the trials have been blessings as they have drawn us close to Him.  

The original Thanksgiving was celebrated by the Pilgrims following the winter of 1620 - after a 65 days journey across the Atlantic Ocean in the cargo hold of a ship, a landing error of 500 miles and a death toll of 50% of their population after they landed. SOMe had wanted a day of mourning; instead Governor Bradford instructed them to set aside a day to give thanks to the Lord. 

So we give thanks today - for all the blessings the Lord has bestowed on us.