Things I'm thankful for.

Yesterday we had our family scripture study in the midst of preparing our feast and though the chapter was not an extraordinary one, I really had an overwhelming feeling of blessedness. We read Pahoran's reply to Moroni calling him out for not supporting the troops and it reminded me of Marky and Liz and Billy and Dave and all the other people who "sign up" for the love of home, and country and liberty. I was also feeling especially grateful for the Puritans seeking the freedom to worship God. They gave up every comfort, everything familiar and trusted God to protect them and support them. As I cooked my turkey in my gas oven and whipped the sweet potatoes in my KitchenAid while my roll dough was being mixed in my bread maker, I realized we had few fears, few needs unmet and luxuries that 400 years ago were unimaginable. I was also feeling grateful for my mom and her kitchen that I have been borrowing this week. I couldn't have prepared two turkeys and everything else without her. I was grateful to be able to share our comforts with friends who were likewise removed from faraway family and give my husband the thing he misses most on a holiday- a crowd. I was grateful for my kids who helped whenever they were asked, even if they weren't asked "nicely" and are so welcoming to friends in our home. I was grateful when everyone left and I could go to sleep while my husband cleaned up. What a guy! I'm grateful for all of you and hope each of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving wherever you were and whoever you were with.