Gratitude

I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.

~G.K. Chesterton

With great wonder and happiness, we thank the Lord -- this day, especially.

:: For our warm home and warm friends -- for the coziness we sometimes don't even see.

:: For the loved ones with whom we'll celebrate (and likely overeat) today.

:: For the men and women that serve our country and spend today far from their families and loved ones.

:: For our soldier, who is home with us today to pour coffee and orange juice and hold children and remind us how truly blessed we are.

:: For laughing children and their goofy antics.

:: For princesses and superheroes and imaginations that run wild.

:: For creativity. (Even when that makes a mess.)

:: For delicious, chubby babies and healthy children.

:: For hugs and kisses and snuggles shared between siblings. (And for the occasionally ferocious defense, "Don't do that to my sister!" or "That's my brother!" lobbed at a careless playmate.)

:: For the opportunity to share our bounty with others. For the joy that comes with giving.

Delivering our boxes for Operation Christmas Child. We learned that our boxes are bound for children in Peru, the Philippines, Mongolia, Indonesia, or China. (Incidentally, if you meant to pack a box for Operation Christmas Child, but missed national drop off week, it might not be too late! Certain cities across the country will have drop-off locations through December 10th -- some even through December 31st. Check here for details.)

:: For grace. For truth. For the One who came, full of both. (John 1:14)

:: For our friends and family, near and far. We wish you the happiest of days, the awareness of how blessed we truly are, and the knowledge of the One who gives all things.

Happy Thanksgiving!