It has been a beautiful, sunny, 60 degree Thanksgiving Day spent basking in the joy of time set aside to celebrate and praise God for the amazing people, gifts, and opportunities He has blessed me with in my life. As I reflect, I find there are so many things to be grateful for, including: my faith, marriage, family, friends, pets, home, job, church community, and travel experiences. Each and every year, I feel that my life becomes richer and richer as I grow closer to God and allow Him to work in my heart and through my life. I don’t say this to boast, but rather, to testify that a life lived with God really is a blessed one. It’s not perfect, because nothing this side of Heaven is, but God never ceases to amaze me with His goodness and faithfulness, each and every day.
Today started wonderfully with a nice in-home workout, coffee, and quiet time with God. Then I picked up my sister and we headed downtown to run the 12th Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. Over 4,000 people participated this year making for a highly-spirited and festive event! (Early morning exercise also makes for great feasting!) We enjoyed the lovely weather by running strong together, and celebrated the fabulous finish with our favorite Biggby coffee, my homemade pumpkin muffins, and good old fashioned girl talk.
The afternoon consisted of resting in front of the television to watch our Detroit Lions play against the Houston Texans. Unfortunately the Lions were unable to beat the Texans in overtime, but we didn’t let that infringe upon our good time. We headed to my parent’s place shortly after the game and indulged in a dinner of all the best comfort food you could ask for: turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, sweet potato puff, cranberry orange salad, rolls, and pie – apple and pumpkin. It was DELICIOUS! Let’s just say I’m still in a food coma.
Now we’re back home and relaxing together, about to turn in for the night. While the hubby plays on his iPad, I am working my way through a new book, “One Thousand Gifts” by Ann Voskamp, which it seems I’ve picked up at just the right time with it’s focus on “embracing a lifestyle of radical gratitude” and slowing down to “catch God in the moment.” I think I’ve found the perfect book to retreat into on this blissful long weekend!
Overall, it has been a great kick-off to the holiday season! I am incredibly thankful for God’s blessing of the amazing people who make life so sweet and all the things that make life so good.
Happy Thanksgiving!