Thanks

I would like to share something I am thankful for this year. Here goes...

I am thankful for our infertility. Don't get me wrong - I am still sad, and I still want a baby as much as ever (though I am working on being ok with the very real possibility that children might not be in my future), but I am working on having a thankful heart for this and everything else I have in life, whether it feels "good" or "bad."

God loves me and promises to give me His best for me. Our infertility is a gift from God. It's tough to see it, and especially to feel it, but it is theologically true. Infertility is God's best for my life. It is a blessing. It is being used to grow me into the person God wants me to be. It enables me to serve in the areas God wants me to serve. It gives me compassion to minister to those who need compassion as only I, in my unique circumstances, can give.

It is not easy, trust me, and just this last week I have had to deal with some painful information regarding this whole infertility journey. But it's ok. And not only is it ok - it's what's best for me. And, it's hard for me to be thankful for this. But I am working on thinking this way all the time. It's a work in progress.

Thanksgiving Day was spent with my family. We were able to take one of our youth group girls with us to spend the day, and it was fun to have her around and spend time with her.

Friday we got up very early (1:30 AM) and drove to Des Moines to do Black Friday shopping. We were at the mall by 3:30, and we didn't get home until almost 6 PM. Then to dinner with friends.

It was a good weekend, fun with family and friends. Now back to the grind and getting ready for this holiday season and what's sure to be a very busy winter. Just looking at my calendar for the next few months makes my head spin.

Hope you all had a fantastic Thanksgiving with family and friends, and hope you were able to take some time to reflect on the blessings God has given you - whether obvious or "hidden."

Thank you, Jesus, for "working all things together for good." (Romans 8:28)

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving! I had a great day - we went to Wisconsin to visit my aunt and uncle and their family, and my grandma who lives with them. It was a lot of fun although I think more of the day was spent in the car than anything else :) I wanted to share some of the things I am most thankful for today.

- My God and Savior Jesus Christ, and my salvation through Him
- The power and privilege of prayer, and the Bible by which I am able to know Him more
- My husband and his affection and support
- My family and friends who give me many laughs and show much love, and the time I get to spend with them
- My trials - it is through them I grow
- The health and abilities of my family, friends, and myself
- Our many material blessings

There are so many more things I couldn't list them all if I typed all day - I hope you had a chance to reflect on what you are thankful for today.

And, now that T-day is over, may the Christmas season (and Christmas music) begin :)

My grandma, siblings, cousins, Narasimha and I, and Bella (not in that order :)

Narasimha and I