November 27th, 2015

   It's the morning after Thanksgiving, and I'm laying here in bed, shamelessly enjoying this rare opportunity to be lazy. (But to be fair, I have already been up once and started a load of laundry!) My mind is already moving forward to all the things I want to accomplish today: decorate the tree, set out the rest of my Christmas decorations, enjoy some turkey leftovers, etc., etc.
  I find myself also reflecting back to yesterday. I think I'd have to say that Thanksgiving 2015 will go down as a good one. My family was all together, safe and healthy. And despite a few minor mishaps (including a scorched hot pad, a broken measuring cup, and spilled milk!) we made it through with a lot of laughs, a few new memories, and plenty of good food! Whether it was my sister walking around with big Christmas ornaments hanging from her ears, or my dad and brother's resignation at watching The Walton's Homecoming movie again, or all of us sitting around the table sharing what we're thankful for, I will cherish every moment of it.
   I realize, though, that not everyone was so fortunate. My mind goes to friends that I know personally that have loved ones on hospice, knowing that they will not be spending many more days with them. I can't help but think of Joey Feek of the beloved country duo Joey and Rory, how she is bravely and gracefully facing her last holiday season with her family. 
   I also think of others that are missing someone from their table already, such as the many families with military sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, etc. Others are spending their season in a hospital room, praying for a sick or wounded family member.
  I think of two of my favorite gospel singers, Scott Fowler and Jim Brady. Scott lost his mother earlier this year, and Jim recently lost both his father and sister just weeks apart. While both have made it clear that they still have much to be thankful for this season, I know in their hearts they are still grieving. (Though not as one without hope!)
   And I remember the dozens of families in Mali and Paris who have experienced unspeakable tragedies recently. So many other families all over the world struggle just to survive and stay alive.
   I may not have much to brag about. My home is simple. My family is not rich or cultured. But I have absolutely nothing to complain about. So, my Christmas tree is a little shorter than I like. I am now sans a hot pad AND a cup holder. I have a mess to clean up from all the preparations yesterday. But, considering what so many others have had to endure this year, I wouldn't trade any of it.
   God bless you and yours!
                                                                                          In His Grip!
                                                                                          Crystal