Blessings

I awoke this morning in the comfort of my warm bed, in my warm bedroom next to my very best friend. Our children were only a few yards, away down the hall, safe,warm, and healthy in their own warm beds.

I was able to get up without assistance, cook a hearty breakfast for my family, indulge in a hot bath, and will soon be headed to my mother-in-laws for a family dinner.

I am a woman abundantly blessed. How can I say thank you, Lord? I thank you with my life.

"Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live." Psalm 63:3-4

Gravy

Several years ago, when I was living out of state and had come for a visit, my dad showed me a copy of a book that a local artist had written about Portland which featured a small line drawing of my father (he has operated a catering business locally, for several years, and has garnered a bit of local celebrity.) I was excited and, of course wanted a copy. I have thought about it off and on over the years but have yet to obtain one.

Just last week, that book came to mind again, so I called my dad to ask for the title and author. I still wanted a copy, and was curious whether the library where I work owned the book. Unfortunately, my dad couldn't remember the name of the book or the author. He gave me the few sordid details that he could recall, and I set out on my search. I didn't have much to go on as I had only seen the book briefly and couldn't remember anything about it myself.

Today when I got to work, I picked up some books that I had requested. Upon opening the cover of one that I believed to be a children's book based on the title, I was delighted to see the drawing of my daddy smiling at me. This was the book! I had found it without realizing it!

Sometimes God presents me with the little delights of my heart, making very clear his incredible love for me, and reminding me how he cares about every detail that concerns me. In February, I referred to those as valentines. In November, I will call them gravy.

Thanksgiving

I was lying in bed the other morning thinking about the year so far which has been wrought with set backs and unexpected losses. We seem to get mere moments to catch our breath before the next contraction begins. Having been through labor twice, I recognize that as a good thing. Transition, though the worst part, is also the last hurdle before birth. It's the homestretch.

My husband is again, looking for work. The direction that he took at the crossroad a few weeks ago, though certainly not an Ishmael in that no irreparable damage occurred, was also not the Isaac that we have awaited. So, once again, we find ourselves waiting.

Still, in spite of the difficult terrain that life has dealt us this year, the overwhelming peace of God remains. In the midst of chaos, the joy of the Lord is our strength. And we are so thankful for the blessings of family, friendship, love, laughter, and the true riches of fellowship with The Master. As we gather at our table a few Thursdays from now, we still have an enormity of things to be grateful for.

I know that we are not unique in enduring tough circumstances. We have many loved ones who are also navigating through choppy waters. Please know that you are remembered in our prayers. During this season, I hope that you will also seize upon the opportunity to offer heartfelt thanks to our father, no matter what kind of obstacles have beset your journey. For even if all of the pleasures that this world has to offer are stripped away bit by bit, Christ remains. And he is more than enough.

"Who have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you." Psalm 73:25