Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Giving Thanks

As Thanksgiving quickly approaches and I start to dream of pumpkin pie, mandarin orange jello salad, and scalloped corn, I want to take a moment to share my thanks.

As many of you know, during the first few weeks of school, Javier and I discovered we have been blessed with a long-awaited pregnancy. As I write, I am at 15 weeks and the sickness of the first trimester is lessening. (Many, many thanks for that!!) And so have my hours at school been lessened, due to some continuing medical concerns. And while it has been a blessing to be in a position that has allowed me to be at home and resting, I have also been missing my kids at school. I think, though, that this has been one of those hidden blessings...realizing I can slow down and let someone else take the reins...at home and school...because God is ultimately the one in control anyway...not me.

I am thankful for a great turnout at this year's Harvest Fair, where all the kids worked so hard to serve others. And for the amazing blessings that transpired during High School Retreat last week. I witnessed kids drawing closer to God, bonding with one another, and maturing in the Word. And while I couldn't participate in all of the activities this year, I am thankful to be in a place that recognizes the importance of such for students and sets aside time to make sure they experience them. I am also extremely thankful that Javier was able to come along, as I would not have been able to participate at all without him there to help!!

This year's Thanksgiving will be different for us, as all the folks we usually celebrate with are now away. So instead, we have decided to invite some of our Korean students over to experience their first American (via Guatemala) Thanksgiving feast. I'm excited to share this favorite time with them and am hopeful they will enjoy it!!

And, of course, not at all least on my list of things to be thankful for is you! I'm so very thankful for all of you who continue to show interest in our ministry here and continue to support us through prayer and financial giving.

Love and blessings to you all!!!