Thankful Thursday

Happy New Year!!

Today I am thankful that at the last minute the Prime Minister decided that since New Year's Day is on a Thursday schools should have Friday off too.  Talk about waiting until the last minute!  A real school schedule would be a dream come true, but sometimes this type of last minute decision (which isn't rare) is better than a snow day!

I am thankful for another year in this precious country.  Apart from our first year, 8 years ago, this has been the biggest learning curve I've ever been in.  It's challenging and exhausting and frustrating and a great blessing.  

I am thankful for my job.  I am thankful for the chance to earn an income and help my kids get a good education.  I love being at school with them and entering into their worlds.

I am also thankful that once again in 2014 we can attest to the Lord's goodness.  He has faithfully provided for every one of our needs.  He has met us in many unexpected and gracious ways.  He is so good!

I am thankful for a new town and a fresh start.  We are honored to be used by Him and are in great anticipation of what He will do here!

I am thankful for our health.  He has really protected us in this area.  We've hardly had a cold between us this year!

I am thankful for my family, friends, and colleagues both near and far.  It is a blessing to get to walk through life with you.

I'm thankful that this year the Lord gave us a new vision and moved us out here.  I'm thankful that we had the opportunity to travel a bit in country.  I am thankful that I got to stand up in my best friend's wedding.  I am thankful that we had a precious group come out and help us with a conference.  I am thankful that we survived our cross-country move.  I am thankful that the Lord had new friends ready and waiting for my kids.  I am thankful that we've all adjusted relatively well to our new school.  I am thankful that teaching hasn't killed me yet.  I am thankful for an amazing husband who has happily jumped in to encourage me and help keep this household running and us all in clean clothes.  I am thankful for 3 amazing, smart, funny, kind, flexible kids.  I am thankful for our teammates down the coast.  I am thankful for all the folks who encourage us. I am thankful for all the folks who give so generously and sacrificially.  I am thankful for the folks who carry us in prayer.  

I am thankful for Jesus.