Giving Thanks

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration. I've been reading some special books with the boys that talk about the first Thanksgiving. I love how one book summarizes the first Thanksgiving. It talks about all the cooking and preparation, how the Pilgrims played games and held contests with the Indians. There was music and probably singing and, of course, feasting. Most of all, it was a time for the Pilgrims to share and give thanks to God. I think that's a wonderful representation of our Thanksgiving. We had a great time working together to prepare for the meal, there was singing and music and games. Most of all, we thanked God for all of the blessings he has bestowed on us- and good friends to share with.

Gobble Gobble

Our library storytime on wednesday included a book about a small bear who went around the forest gathering items for his family's Thanksgiving dinner. When he met up with a turkey, they loaded him into a box, then into a wheel barrow to be wheeled away for the meal. Of course, as most stories do, this one had a twist. Instead of being cooked up for the dinner, he was invited to share dinner with the bear family. Trevor quickly spoke up to point out to the librarian that the turkey was supposed to be dinner, not a diner. Nevertheless, we invited this fun guy to be our family's guest at Thanksgiving dinner. The four of us, along with Grandma and Grandpa (and our friend the Turkey) had a wonderful day full of yummy food, fun games, leisurely walks and of course, naps. As each of us shared what we are thankful for, Trevor declared that he was thankful for everything! There's nothing like the sincere declaration of a 5 year old! We hope you have a wonderful weekend, as well. Happy Thanksgiving!

Freedom

When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep? ~George Canning

Liberty. Something that is so integral to our daily lives, and yet so commonly taken for granted. First and foremost, we owe our daily liberty to God, the Giver of all good gifts. But God chooses to use men and women to protect that gift. They are the service members of the United States military. This week as many of us move freely around our country, gathering in our homes with loved ones, let us not forget those who sacrifice to provide the freedom to do so. There are so many service members who are away from their loved ones this Thanksgiving Day. Take a few minutes to send them a small Thank You note from this website. Xerox is partnering with the Boys and Girls clubs and several other groups to provide this service to our troops. The cards have been designed by children from around the country. They have some wonderful text to choose from, or you may compose your own. Whichever you choose to do, it will take no more than a few minutes, but I promise that it will be sincerely appreciated. Brighten someone's day this week. Be thankful.

The Joyful Times

Sickness came into our home yesterday. Fortunately, it's stay was brief. Still, a day of crying, vomiting and semmingly endless laundry makes one thankful for better days. This thursday is Thanksgiving Day, but I decided that I needed more than one day to consider all the blessings God has given me. Today I am thankful for the joyful, carefree times. Is there anything more carefree than a couple of boys playing with the garden hose?