Thankful Thursday, the Early Friday Edition

It's that time of year again, time to stop and count my blessings.

I've been wondering how to jump back into this blog. Wondering if I should jump back into this blog. I'm on no firmer footing than I was when I left it. No extra minutes have miraculously made their way into my days, much as I've prayed for them. And I'm not sure I can think of anything to say anymore, worthwhile or otherwise.

But I miss it. I miss writing---I miss preserving the memories that so quickly pass through my sieve of a brain, I miss straining to conjure that oh-so-perfect word hidden on the tip of my tongue, I miss those magical moments when the thoughts flow out faster than my clumsy fingers can record them. Most of all though, I miss you. I miss sharing my heart and my life with all of you who so graciously visit me here. I miss feeling connected.

So, here I go again. Being thankful on a Thursday (and it is still Thursday in California, where a piece of my heart will always be) seems a very good place to revive this little home of mine. (Please forgive me if my posts continue to be sporadic...such is life sometimes. :)

This week, I am thankful for...

...the utter joy brought to me by this beautiful post.

...the chaotic cabin I shared with five adults, eleven kids, and five friendly visitors last weekend. Although most of the surrounding leaves had already fallen, IT DID NOT RAIN, and for that, I am extremely grateful. (Why are weekends only two days long?)

...our new homeschool co-op, which is finally forcing me to teach my kids grammar and science in a more disciplined way and, more importantly, is giving me lots of mommy-bonding time every Wednesday.

...Dominion Academy, where Elena is challenged academically three mornings a week and where she receives an adequate and relatively benign dose of high school shenanigans.

...a pantry fully stocked by my favorite Airman, who celebrated Veteran's Day with a trip to the commissary. Yes, I'm spoiled.

...good friends for my kids, the kind of friends who inspire them to holiness, make them feel loved and accepted, and pretend not to notice my messy house.

...the blessing of being able to spend each and every day with these precious souls in my care. Even when it feels as though we are accomplishing very little, I know that we are right where we are supposed to be, learning to love, day by day.

...sisters who are always there to listen and commiserate and make me laugh. We Are Fam-i-ly...

...a husband who never fails to serve his family without counting the cost. (This is a man who comes home from a long day of work and makes pizza for dinner. Pizza, his favorite food, which he can no longer eat due to his gluten-free diet. That's love.)

...a God who won't let go.


May God bless you with a grateful heart. Thanks for coming back.