I am Thankful:

--For my salvation. I am so utterly unworthy, and the only thing I am consistent in is disappointing and failing my Lord in my words and deeds. Yet, He loves me, and his righteousness blots out my transgressions. Hallelujah, what a Saviour!

--God's Sovereignty. I may never know why we've encountered the life hurdles that have confronted us in the last years. It doesn't matter. Our continuing to look towards Him for wisdom and guidance during them does.

--My husband. It's hard to believe that he's put up with me for nearly half of my life. What a trooper. The care and shepherding he provides our family is a daily blessing.

--TQ, or should I say Miss Independence, as she travelled solo cross-country this past week (no more unaccompanied minor status!)? She continues to grow in wisdom and in stature (she's almost taller than me), not to mention beauty. I missed her so much this Thanksgiving that we had a second turkey dinner celebration when she got home on Saturday.

--EJ. Also growing in wisdom and stature. At least we hope he keeps growing in stature, because he needs to grow into his feet. His new soccer boots were over an inch too long on me! I had reason to praise God for my handsome young man this week when I overheard his soccer coach talking to another boy about him, and mentioning that he often worked so hard at practice that he cried in exhaustion and frustration, but that EJ always delivered at crunch time during games. It was then that I realized what an uncomplaining spirit that he is developing--this is my child who NEVER has grumbled about any hardship we've endured in the last few years. Since this is a quality that I struggle with, I'm extra thankful to see it in one of my offspring!

--The Princess. My most middle of middle children, I see the blessing she is to those around her and delight in the special relationship she has with her grandparents. I'm even thankful for her stubborn, er, persistent streak...

--Little guy. I'm thankful for the humility he brings to my parenting! Every family should have a "late baby" around this time of year. His wonder and innocence balances out much of the emerging teen/tween jadedness and cynicism--and gives them an excuse to cut loose and be "kids" who delight in Charlie Brown holiday specials and tree decorating.

-Friends new and old. I am in awe of the kindness I have experienced in my life from those who love me/us so much.

--Family close enough to celebrate the holidays and special occasions with.

--A church that becomes more and more "ours" with every passing Sabbath.

--For those who choose to serve our country. This year I'm especially thankful for a nephew and a sweet friend who are just launching their military careers.

--For the traditions that bring us closer together. I could take or leave putting up the Christmas tree on Thanksgiving weekend, but I know my husband loves it and that makes it special. My heart melts when I see my family gathered around the advent wreath...

--Another year and new opportunities. Two short Thanksgiving weeks ago, I was caught in a whirl of chemo preparation (scans, port placements, logistics) and uncertainty about whether or not I'd celebrate another Thanksgiving with my family. This Thanksgiving week I was caught in a whirl of holiday preparation and logistics for an upcoming book promotion trip.

--The book. I'm never going to be on the Times bestseller list, but women have stopped me or written to say that they've been encouraged by my book!! What an awesome privilege to encourage someone.