The calendar has changed to November and here in Albuquerque the weather has turned cold. At this time of the year my thoughts turn to Thanksgiving and all the joy this day brings.
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, maybe because it was my mother's favorite holiday or maybe because it brings family and friends together. I enjoy the planning of the big day, what to cook, who will come to "break bread" at the table, and the connection it will create among a group of people.
When my mother was living I usually went to her house where we all gathered. We had a tradition of using a new tablecloth each year and each person would sign their name and leave a message. At the time it seemed kind of silly, but looking back on it I treasure the memory.
Now I live far away from my family. My mother is gone for many years now, and I have tried to create a family tradition with my daughter and grandchildren. Time moves on, things change, traditions change, and I have learned to treasure what moments of connection I do have with loved ones.
This is a season of gratitude for the many ways in which God moves in my life and in the lives of my loved ones. I give thanks for what I do have and appreciate the people that I have come to know and love.
Though I may not always remember to tell the people in my life how important they are to me, I hope that my actions demonstrate my love and gratitude.
Thank you for taking the time to read my blog. I hope in some way you are blessed.
Pastor Judy
