A Season of Thanksgiving

How is it that joy and sorrow walk hand in hand? Seasons of grief and sorrow have weighed on us throughout the past year - and yet, when I look back on the blessings of the Lord throughout the most difficult times, I am thankful - once again - that walking with the Lord smoothes the difficult places, and brings joy in unexpected ways.  

We were supposed to be in Texas this Thanksgiving, and last year, my Gram, my Dad, and Mom Moseley were with us.  Thanksgiving last year was such a joyful time, and we celebrated in grand style - appreciating the moments we had with the ones we loved so much. 

But this year - our family was missing three precious faces around the gathering tables.  My Canadian family celebrated Thanksgiving in October and passed that milestone of a first without Gram.  Then this year, both my Dad and Mom Moseley have gone on with Jesus.  The loss of their presence changed everything.  

Because of our many trips to Texas this year, we did not return for Thanksgiving. My Mom went on a special trip with my sister and her family to get her out of the house so she wouldn't be alone.  My brothers celebrated by frying a turkey on Christmas Day - they said it was wonderful.  Dan's family gathered together, the ones who could. 

We were blessed beyond measure this Thanksgiving too. Danielle's in-laws upon hearing that we had no Thanksgiving plans, immediately invited us to join them in their lovely home for the day of feasting, fellowship, and camaraderie.  How blessed it was! 

Generous amounts of food kept arriving as guests kept coming!

I made my mother's recipe for Deep Dish Apple Pie. 

The buffet line never seemed to end! Danielle's mother-in-law made the rolls,
oh my, they melted in your mouth :) So much good food, and we had wonderful fellowship too. 

All our family was together, with Alanna's brother joining us. 

Such a special time, and we are so very grateful for the memories made.  Danielle's became family to us as soon as we met them, and we have gathered for many meals together, both at their home and ours.  I am grateful for this marvelous blessing, that our families can join in together to celebrate the Thanksgiving season in our hearts, and for the Lord! 

How was your Thanksgiving for those of you who are my American readers? I pray that you were able to find joy in the midst of perhaps some sorrow. I think that is the way it is these days.  There is much sorrow and grief in our lives that we don't often share - but it is there.  Illness, financial struggles, relationships, overseas conflicts - so many things can bring sorrow, grief, and worry to our lives.  But, we can walk among the tears with joy too. I know because I've done it. He walks with us and loves us in the midst of it all. I'm thankful for His presence, ever near, and faithful in the midst of trying times. 

I recently ran across this website filled with some really powerful devotions. You might be interested in reading it :)  Devotable  There are some particularly moving, and encouraging devotions written there to enjoy. 

I want to leave you with an encouraging video - may your day be blessed, and uplifted by the blessings of the Lord that carry us through the days of grief and sorrow :) 

Psalm 61:5-8

My soul, wait thou only upon God; 

for my expectation is from Him. 

He only is my rock and salvation: He is my defense;

I shall not be moved. 

in God is my salvation and my glory:

the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is God. 

Trust in Him at all times; ye people, 

pour out your heart before Him: 

God is a refuge for us. 

Selah.