Its just a few days now until Thanksgiving. Several times in the past few weeks I have been asked to share what I am most thankful for. It should not be a hard question but I find myself, at times, stumped over what to share. Of course, there is the obvious, my precious family; more importantly salvation through Christ; my children's salvation, a roof over our heads, food on the table, the list can go on and on. I wonder, when asked this question, if we are supposed to come up with something astounding? something that will be like, "wow, thats totally amazing"; and as I sit here penning my thoughts the above mentioned are what comes to mind.

From a little girl on my one goal in life was to be "just a wife and mom". Sure I pursued some college education and am possibly going take a few classes this winter, but it was never my passion. I never wanted to work outside my home, sure the extra money would be great, but I don't think I could stand being away from Den and the kids on a regular working basis. I guess one thing that really comes to mind that I am totally thankful for is "my husband, his rock-solid love for the Lord, his wife and his family". He has never ever wanted me to work at anything but our family, and even when I have asked and sometimes begged to do so, he always says that our family would fall apart without me! WOW! if that doesn't just hit right in my heart! To think they really need me. There have are times I have wondered if I am only needed for, cooking (which by the way is the biggest chore for me to do, next to birthing 12 children); cleaning, etc. yet there are so many moments that I know its more than that. When someone forgets something they need at school and they know I am only a phone call away, when someone gets sick and they need to come home, when someone can play hookie and mom okays it! The truth is, I love what I am doing and I can't imagine myself doing anything else. I am very thankful to be "home". Its a rare gift these days and even in our circumstances when extra $$ would be so extremely helpful, I know what I am doing is what God has called me to do. Sure its not for everyone, 12 kids aren't for everyone, but God has given me the ability to care for this Tribe, sometimes not with the servants heart that I should have, but deep down in, the passion is there.

So my question to those of you who should stop by and take a moment to read this blog is,
"are you doing what God has called you to do, and is it your passion to do so?" If not, ask,
seek and knock. He'll answer.

Thank you to all my "wonderful" children. Through your lives you have refined me, shaped me and pushed me to want a more intimate walk with Christ. I am truly blessed beyond words to be your mom (mother-in-law) and hope that I will continue to walk in a manner worthy of Him for all of you!

To my children and grandchildren who aren't able to share in the Thanksgiving Holiday with us, know that your very presence will be missed, you are deeply loved and though the miles separate us, we know that one day we will all be together! Some day, God willing, we will be able to visit you and share in your surroundings, your life and your church. Know that you are prayed for each and everyday!

Praise God for the blessings He so beautifully bestows on each and everyone of us, some we see and experience and some we miss; and for the dreams He allows us to pursue and chase after.

May God give each and every one of you a blessed Thanksgiving Holiday and may His love shine ever so bright in our lives so that we may touch others for Him.