I have been telling myself all morning that we should be focusing on the myriad of things for which we have to be thankful. And we have. We have discussed our many blessings, and have given thanks to our Heavenly Father together and separately. Truly He is good all of the time. But the sadness over missing out on spending this favorite holiday with family insists on intruding, and today I decided it was okay to feel sad for a while.
After wallowing in misery for some time, imagining the smells, the companionship around the fire, my mom and grandma in the kitchen . . . I could go on here but won't, I decided that some culinary therapy was in order. I pulled out the Pioneer Woman Cooks, and the kids and I mixed up her homemade cinnamon rolls. So far we have consumed two dozen (with the help of some American/Australian friends), two dozen more await on the countertop, and I just mixed up enough dough for four more dozen. Good thing we will have places to share them tonight and tomorrow.
Last night I reflected on how the simple discipline of teaching the children to pray and give thanks each night before they fall asleep has become such a part of their lives that they often mechanically say thank you for the very things that they spent a considerable amount of time complaining over earlier in the day. Will this translate into genuine gratitude as they continue to get older? I'm not sure, but I figure it can't hurt.
there was a big wilkin-sized hole at the table this year. you were all missed very much - and the topic of much discussion.
Posted by: Karin Smith | 11/28/2010 at 02:40 AM
Oh, there are tears in my eyes for you. You are doing so great, Christie...counting your blessings, praying, continuing to be thankful AND allowing yourself to feel your true feelings. I'm sorry you were away from family and friends at home this year. Thanksgiving is a beautiful holiday. I'm thankful for YOU.
Posted by: Shanda | 12/05/2010 at 03:20 AM