Giving Thanks

More now than any time I can remember, I feel so overwhelmingly, and undeservingly, blessed. I couldn't begin to write a comprehensive list, but I feel such an abundance of blessings have been poured out on our family, that my heart is full to the brim with gratitude. I have so much! I have four precious sons that give my life purpose and meaning. I have a lovely home to grow our family and build memories in. I have clothes to wear, food to eat, a bed to sleep in, and cars to drive. I have friends and family to enrich my days. I have a healthy body that allows me to freely do whatever I choose. I have a community that supports my family and my values. I have a bright and hopeful future. I have a Father in Heaven that hears my prayers and compensates for my shortcomings. Best of all, I have a partner to share in my great fortune. With all these blessings, it almost felt excessive and oppulent to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with such a lavish production of food and indulgence. On the holiday set aside to give thanks, and every day, I thank my Heavenly Father for blessing our family, as I seek more opportunities to express my thanks to Him in service of others.

In my family growing up, our tummies would grumble and growl as the delicious smells of Thanksgiving wafted around us and we waited anxiously, in forced fast, to partake of the mid-day feast. In Aaron's family, the appetizers are served at breakfast-time and the guests graze on yummy treats before, during, and after the main event. I tried my best to pace myself, but truthfully, my tummy had already reached maximum capacity long before the turkey hit the table.

Since Nana and Papa Grover offered to host Thanksgiving dinner, I was off the hook for cooking.

I'm still in disbelief that I consumed this entire plate-ful of food. Two days later, and I still feel stuffed!

Aaron doing the dishes?! It really must be a special occasion ;)