Giving Thanks + Oregon + 5 Months Down

Since I went to school on the east coast, I always stayed out in NY and had Thanksgiving with Josh’s family. Of course, I loved being able to stay with Josh and get to know his family, but staying was always a little bitter sweet because I missed my family 3,000 miles away. Last year, my mom came to ND and had Thanksgiving with us, which was amazing. This year, I am thankful that I am home for Thanksgiving for the first time since 2007…6 years! Josh’s grandparents and brother, Dan, will also join us for the day, which is great!

And in the usual spirit of Thanksgiving, I’ll hush my mouth on how much I hate the weather and offer up 7 thing for which I am thankful:

1. For going home to loved ones in Oregon. See above. Photos to come.

2. For 5 months down today and Josh returning very, very soon. Like I said previously, we have a homecoming date. I can’t tell you what it is, but I was pleasantly surprised. Of course, anything can change with the military, but we’re keeping our hopes high!

3. That I wake up in a clean, warm, comfortable apartment with indoor plumbing, consistently warm showers and food in our refrigerator. May we pray for and be generous with those who go without these simple luxuries.

4. For good health and steady employment

5. For the ability and free time to learn new things. How blessed are we to do spend time doing things that give us joy?

6. For leisure with good friends, especially those family and friends whose love and support have been invaluable over the last 5 months of deployment. Your tear-stained shoulders do not go unnoticed! Thank you for your prayers, making me laugh when I’m down, helping me carry my crosses, and giving me permission to feel the ups and downs of missing Josh. The love you have filled me up with has helped me support Josh and has kept us both going in the tough times. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

7. For the love and mercy of Jesus, for all good things flow from Him. Thank you, sweet Jesus, for loving us in our brokenness. Thank you for blessings us; help us to grow in charity and bless others. As we begin our New Year with Advent, may we ponder with Mary the mystery of your Incarnation…that you love us so much that you would take on our humble flesh, live for for us, die for us, and rise for us.