In everything give thanks;

for this is the will of God

in Christ Jesus concerning you.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Exhausted and weary from sleep deprivation due to our new little bundle of joy, I start this Thanksgiving day.  In the midst of this labor of love I am reminded of my Mama who loved and supported me and walked the floor many nights with Cammie years ago when I was just 21, a new Bride and new mama myself.  I give Him thanks.

Compounding my sleep deprivation, I dared not sleep before 11:00 p.m. last night as I’ve done so many nights before waiting for Courtney to arrive home from work.  We stole a few much needed, yet unlikely moments—similar to our time in the emergency room the night prior to Gavin’s birth—as she unloaded heaviness.  I comforted her with a mama’s love.  I give Him thanks.

Battle worn due to kicks and jabs from Sophie last night, I feel each ache and smile.  I paused last night long enough to decide against scooping her up and returning her to her bed.  There’s a new baby in town and my sweet angel girl has needed extra loving and reassurance.  I give Him thanks.

Contemplating my decision to make  a new pot of black eyed peas, I ask Joe to pick up an onion from the store as he purchases the all important newspaper for Black Friday.  Sophie doesn’t eat enough vegetables but she loves my black eyed peas.  The already cooked peas for this evening’s dinner are mushy.  Once again, I left a burner on (although it was on simmer) as Joe and I snuggled up in our bed with Cammie and Sophie to watch a movie.  Black eyed peas were abandoned for togetherness and laughter as Sophie lay sleeping between Joe and me.  I give Him thanks.

Longing for quality time with my husband and best friend, I press through today’s demands and prepare for a long day of family, food and fellowship.  Placing my desires on the back burner—the one on the stove that is off—I wait patiently and marvel at the loving support of the new grandfather.  I give Him thanks.

Embracing our time together today without our Soldier stirs a whirlwind of emotions in our household.  With difficulty, I push aside thoughts of his upcoming deployment and encourage my daughter to count down the days to his graduation and return home for Christmas.  Trusting that his absence means security for the future of his new family, protection for our country and the divine will of our Lord, I give Him thanks.

I’m thankful for the obvious—my loving Saviour, my family, our new addition, God’s blessings daily loaded down on me.  But in the midst of physical exhaustion, overwhelming emotions and uncertainty over job security this holiday season, I am reminded that His grace is sufficient.  Always sufficient. And in my weakness, His strength is made perfect.  The circumstances do not stir up thanks.  I’m human.  I’m not glad about my mushy black eyed peas.  I’m not thrilled over lack of sleep.  I suppose that’s why the Scripture says to give thanks in everything, not for everything.  In my circumstances, this I recall to mind, therefore have I hope:  It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.  They are new every morning:  great is thy faithfulness.  -Lamentations 3:21-23

Happy Thanksgiving!  I’m so thankful for each one of you.  I’m amazed by your love, support and prayers.  I give Him thanks.

Love covers,