my thankful heart - day #19

 

Today I give thanks to God for:

precious memories with my family

A few special memories have been placed on my heart this week.  One year ago today, was our handsome son's child dedication service at our church.  It was such a memorable day to have our immediate family and close friends surround us with their love and support as we committed to bring up our child to experience the love of Christ.  It was also a special day as we enjoyed a Thanksgiving feast with our dear family following the service. It was a celebration of our love and dedication to the Lord and our commitment to family. What a blessing it was to be together!

A second memory on my heart this week is that of the year anniversary of my grandmother's death.  It is unbelievable that one year has passed.  So many things remind me of her (esp. tea, cookies, ceramics and the kitchen) and I hold those moments close to my heart.   She was devoted to her family and raised six children who strive to be the best possible and to set and example for their children.  She has left a beautiful legacy and I pray that I can represent her well as I continue to be influenced by her life.

my thankful heart - day #10

Today I give thanks to God for:

family members who travel to visit us

In 2003, my husband and I moved to Michigan from Illinois for husband to complete his residency.  It has been quite the journey to say the least and we are so thankful for our family's support; specifically their willingness to drive 6hours to Michigan and visit!  Now, I must state that the birth of our little love has highly influenced our family's visits the past 2 years...but we are thankful nonetheless!
Last weekend, we hosted Granddad and had a fun visit with him.  This weekend, we are currently hosting Grandma Bev and Aunt Beth. Our home has been full of laughter & activity and it brings joy to my heart.  We are truly blessed that we have such loving, fun-spirited family members who want to come and spend time with us. 

family

 I found this sign on Pinterest that describes the blessing of our family and what Matt and I desire for our future family. The concept of family has been on my heart as we have been hosting family members for the last ten days. Last weekend my parents came to visit for four days followed by my twin sister who departed on Saturday and my in-laws were here Friday through this morning. It has been so wonderful being in the company of family.  Yes, there are dishes piled up, the laundry is overflowing and there are toys strewn about but it is a true sign that our home has been 'loved' on and lived in the past week. We have spent our time doing fun activities, laughing, playing with little love and just trying to enjoy one another's company. Nothing can compare to spending time with the ones who love you through and through; they just 'get' you and support you through it all.  Visits from family have keep us motivated during the hard days and bring a bit of 'normalcy' to this season of life when distance separates us. Not everyone has the privilege of saying that they have loving parents, in-laws, and siblings who have enriched their lives.  I give thanks to God that I have been so blessed that I desire to spend time with my family - to grow, strengthen, have fun and encourage one another. I pray that God would continue to put a desire in my heart to implement, learn and teach the values in the sign above so we may be a family that honors Him and loves each other well.