In a few days we will officially kick off the Christmas Season by celebrating Thanksgiving Day. Yes, I know Walmart has had Christmas decorations out for a month or more, but sorry, I?m from the old school and I only celebrate one holiday at a time.? Everything is moving too fast these days. Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas all run together. There?s hardly time to carve the pumpkin before we?re carving the turkey, and chopping down a Christmas tree. Slow down world.
For just a few minutes lets all take a deep breath and think of all the people and things we are thankful for. I?ll make my list and check it twice.
1)??? Jesus, who sacrificed His life so I could live eternally because I believe that He is the virgin son of Joseph and Mary. That He walked on earth, died on a cross for mankind?s sins, then rose after three days and later ascended to heaven where He waits for the Father to tell Him to come gather His children home.
2)??? Jerry, my husband of 36 years. We?ve fought our share of battles but after the bullets stop flying we settle back into our comfortable life. Love and respect pull you through many dark days.
3)??? Wendy, my only child. I am so proud of my little girl and the woman she?s become. She still gets mad at me because I have to be her mama now and then and tell her what I think but we?ll always be best friends.
4)??? Emma, my granddaughter. For the past eight years she has been a treasure in my life that has shone brighter than any sparkling jewel. The joy that she brings me is indescribable.
5)??? I?m also thankful for my sister, brothers, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, and my sister?s special cabin where we all gather for Thanksgiving.
6)??? I?m thankful for those who have passed on. My Daddy and Mama and the good things they taught me. My Grandma?s and Grandpa?s. And the many saints who mentored me.
7)??? I?m thankful for so many small things like toothpaste, my curling iron and fuzzy blanket, Jergens Lotion, potato chips and M&M?s. For mornings, mid-day and nights. For the changing seasons, air conditioning and heat.
8)??? For being able to speak my mind and pack a pistol if I feel threatened. For living without hunger and being able to believe in what or whoever I feel led to believe in.
I could go on and on. What would we do without our computers and cell phones? Even though I do think we rely on them too much they are very much a part of our lives and most of us could not do our jobs without them.
Last but not least are my friends and fans. Since the release of my new novel, The Color of My Heart I am reminded that we are nothing without the support of people around us that believe in us. At this blessed time of year I want to thank every one of you who have bought my books, read my blogs or became a friend on Facebook and Twitter. You and your words of encouragement and praise have pulled me through many days of doubt.
May God bless you and your families with good health, a warm place to lay your head, a full stomach and a thankful heart. Happy Thanksgiving.
