As I reflect over my life, especially the last year, I realize I have much for which to be thankful. Today I want to focus on my family.First of all, I praise the Lord for my wonderful husband. He is a godly man who loves the Lord, loves me, and loves our son. Although he's not perfect, he desires to be the husband and father that God wants him to be. I thank the Lord for bringing Gerson and me together and helping our love to grow the longer we are together. Gerson may silly sometimes, but he's all and more than I ever dreamed of in a husband! I love you, Honey!
Secondly, I praise the Lord for his miraculous healing of our son. Last year at Thanksgiving, Jayden was in an incubator in the St. Vincent Women's Hospital NICU. He was fighting for his life. Although it took more than four months in the hospital, Jayden gradually got better and was able to come home on March 27th. What a day of thanksgiving that was! He has grown, gained weight, and developed at a rate that has thrilled his doctors and therapists. We know God has a special plan for our little boy! Jayden, Mommy loves you and is so proud of you!
Thirdly, I praise the Lord for my parents. What a heritage I have! My parents made their share of mistakes, just as I will as a parent. But, my parents have also been amazing parenting examples in many ways. One thing they did well was give me unconditional love. I never questioned their love for me! They also taught me about Jesus, and lived lives in front of me that backed their words. In addition, they taught me the delicate balance parents have to have in giving their children freedom, but that freedom needs to be within boundaries. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for being awesome parents! I love you!
Fourthly, I praise God for my siblings! We have a bundle of fun when we're together! My older brother Peter is in Texas today. He is serving our country in the military. Pete, I love you and am proud of you beyond word!My younger brother Andy and his wife Elissa and their two boys are in Wisconsin today. We were supposed to go to their house for Thanksgiving, but our nephew is sick. We're praying Joshua will begin to feel better soon! Andy and Elissa, we love you! Joshua and John, we can't wait to watch you grow up and be the men God wants you to be!
My little sis Jamie is with us today. I thank the Lord for answering the prayer of a 4-year-old girl when she prayed for a little sister. Jamie is one of my best friends, and I feel privileged that she is here celebrating God's goodness with us today. Jage, I love you and so appreciate your prayers for me and our talks. Thanks for spending Thanksgiving with us. (Of course, it will be interesting as we try our hand at cooking today!)
And lastly, I'm thankful that my husband, my baby, and I are together today. Last year, Gerson was in Bolivia during Thanksgiving, I was in Indianapolis, and Jayden was in his incubator. Although last year's Thanksgiving was tough, I learned that no matter what our circumstances, God is still worthy or our praise and there is ALWAYS something for which to be thankful. This year is especially special since, even though our plans have changed and we can't be with Andy and his family, Gerson, Jayden and I are together. From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving! Today may you reflect on God's goodness and faithfulness in YOUR life.
