The Wrap: Making the best out of Thanksgiving

Friday, November 27, 2015

"When God gives us less than we desire, it is not because He is teaching us poverty; what He is teaching us is thankfulness. You see, life - real life - is not based upon what we amass but on what we enjoy. Even in difficult circumstances God still gives us much to appreciate. We fail to see what the Lord has provided because our hearts are wrong. Someone once said, "When I see a poor man who is grateful, I know if he were rich, he would be generous." A thankful spirit is akin to a generous spirit, for both appreciate and receive the riches of God. When we are thankful with little, God can entrust us with much.

I am so thankful that God is teaching me thankfulness in this season of life. Time and time again I've told myself, "you can trip about this or you can find contentment and thankfulness." I am also thankful that although this might not be the most wonderful time of the year to many (due to grief, depression or other life circumstances), God and many people care. I have developed a heart of compassion to those whose live circumstances are less than ideal this time of year. I try my best to speak up and say "I see you and I care. God sees you and God cares." 

Our Thanksgiving day was a bit different but thanks to finding the good in all circumstances, it was another great one. One of my kids threw up late on Wednesday night which took us out of going to cheer my husband on his local Turkey Trot. I got to stay at home and do a lot of cleaning up, which put me way ahead for the next month. We were so happy that my husband ran so well he got a PR! He ran in his new running shoes we gave him for an early birthday. Sweet! 
The girls and I got the house ready and the food ready for everyone. I'm amazed at how kids can really lend you a hand. I've been cleaning super fast thanks to my kids (they LOVE to vacuum!). Oh what a joy! We had turkey (we bought it from Bourdreaux Cajun Kitchen), mac and cheese (I made it with cream cheese and 3 other cheeses), sweet potato casserole, Green Bean Casserole, Yeast Rolls,  Mate (chá mate) and Pecan Pie. You can look up all the recipes I used on my Pinterest Board.   
This morning I went to Pinterest again (of course!) and found this amazing Oatmeal Pumpkin Pancakes. The kids enjoyed them and I finally got my Fall taste fix. 

I am also thankful for all the friends who have supported us on our marathon/half-marathon journey. We are incredibly close to meeting our fundraising goal for Bel Inizion. At this moment, all we need is $40. You can click here and help make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged women

I pray that you are having a great Thanksgiving with your family and friends. I pray that you know that even when life is less than perfect, God still loves you and cares.