Thanksgiving, 2010

This Thanksgiving, we spent the holiday at home; alone.

Both of our sons and their families went to their in-laws for the day. We missed them, of course, but realize that we must share them. Others love them, too.

Friday was almost a normal day. Both sons had to work, so we (my husband and I) were on our own again.  That is until supper time. Our younger son and his wife share our house with us so they were home at the usual time. Then our older son and his wife arrived and the "party" began. We laughed and talked and caught up on all the news. We played cards until late. We went to bed happy to have them under our roof for a time.

Saturday started early. Coffee on and showers taken, the cooking began. The men went to pick up our grand-daughters from their mother's house while we started dinner. The turkey in the oven and details delegated, I felt I could take a few minutes to rest. So, I fed the baby a bottle and cuddled with him.

I watched the road for the first glimpse of the car. "Where are my men folk? Dinner is ready and they are not here yet. I need to see my girls!" My girls are teens now and no longer little girls. I enjoy talking with them and learning all about what is going on in their lives. 

Finally, they came up the drive. I put the rolls in the oven and greeted them with hugs and kisses. 

Dinner was ready. I called the family to the table and we gave thanks for the many blessings in our lives. I fought to keep tears in check.

There around the table, I remembered why I am alive: I am here for this family. I love them. I serve them. I share my faith with them. God has a plan for my life; even when I'm not clear on what that plan is, I trust Him and follow Him.

  

It has not been that long since I had to remind myself daily that I am necessary and needed. I kept a Gratitude List in my journal so I would never forget. The Father has shown me that these people, these eight souls, depend on me for my unique outlook and contribution to their lives. Who would take my place with them if I were not here?

My Family~~The Guthrie Gang

The Holy Spirit whispered to me that no one else can minister to them in the same way that I do. No one else can show Jesus to them like I do. They will become who God desires them to be and I am a part of that. 

These days, I look forward to seeing what He is doing in each life. I look to see how my sons are growing and maturing in their faith. I watch my grand-daughters for signs of God's touch on their lives. I look at my daughters-in-law and am delighted with their love for my sons and how God is using them. I look at our grand-son (6 months old!) and hope and pray for his life. My husband shines God's love on me, and on our family.

I am greatly blessed. I am deeply grateful. God has brought me through the dark valley into the light of His love. 

The day passed. We ate and laughed, played dominoes, watched some football, (the girls) drove the tractor, told stories and loved on each other. Then it was time for them to go. I watched them load their things and start down the drive.

I miss them already.