November 24, 2009
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One day of Thanksgiving is simply not enough. As CHO of our household (Chief Holiday-Appointing Officer) I officially declare that, from this day forward, “EVERY DAY SHALL BE A DAY OF THANKSGIVING.” For how in the world can we be expected to give thanks for all of our blessings in one single day, when each new day presents us with a whole set of new blessings?
Today, for example, the morning began with clouds, rain and general drear in place. Not such a blessing? Maybe, but as I looked out, I could see the swirling mist, softening all the hard edges, adding an aura of dreaminess to the very ordinary.
It’s November, yes, and most everything is looking brown and drab. But, sheltered by some lingering hollyhocks, this purple coneflower offered a last taste of summer to a fellow who seems to have missed an earlier flight. He was heartened when the sun peeked out.
The chickens have been protesting the advent of winter by refusing to lay eggs…all except for this lovely lady, Miss Ruby Yellowlegs. Miss Ruby stands by me, giving me one perfect brown egg each and every day, rain or shine. She does seem to prefer shine, though. The egg, on sunny days, seems a touch smoother, a little browner and more oval-ly perfect.
And even on the darkest days, when the work is grungy, the hours long and the cattle uncooperative, I can count on this…a cheerful smile from my faithful farmhand. He had a birthday last week. It was the 40-eth time we’ve celebrated his birthday together as partners in this life we share. Wonder what the record for longest-married is? I think we’re shooting to set a new one. Guinness, give us a little time…we’re on a roll.
These are some of the simple blessings I’ve encountered in my life today. The longer I live, the more I KNOW (inside, where it counts) that the simple blessings are the very best ones. Lord, help me to never take them for granted.
What are you thankful for tonight? Right this minute?
Comments (6)
lol I’m glad I have a good book to read tonight when I go to bed.
I’m thankful that I no longer have to work the night shift at the dairy. Toughest 19 months of my life. My chickens cut way back too. Been giving them milk to drink and that seems to be helping. Congrats on such a long haul!
As you said the blessings continue to roll in…… We are going to do a few things differently this Thanksgiving. Depending on how many are here Wil or I will choose at least one person from each generation to tell what they are thankful for. Then we are going to read aloud the first Thanksgiving PROCLAMATION which was written by George Washington. Our pastor challenged us to do this Sunday morning when he read it as part of his sermon.
Jan, I’m thankful for YOU! How blessed I’ve been to have you and Stan as my lifelong friends to laugh and cry with through life’s twists and turns–and to remind me to be thankful for all life’s blessings, tiny and tremendous. xoxo
I’m thankful for xanga which has led me to acquaintances and wordsmiths such as yourself. I love the way you share you heart!
I second Sue Ann’s emotion! I can’t claim to have had y’all as friends nearly as long as she has, but still, it HAS been a long time since you so sweetly had a bridal breakfast for me when I was 19 years old and you were just barely in your twenties! One of the things I’m most grateful for about our PROVIDENTIAL move to the Ozarks is renewing our old friendship.
You and your family have a happy, happy day tomorrow – lots of love to you all!