Thanksgiving
Last year, we spent Thanksgiving at home, and some family came over, bringing us some turkey and Thanksgiving fixings. Who knew it would be the last Norm and I had together?
I have plans today. I’ll go to the home of my niece, Kimberly. My brother with his wife and my sister will also attend, my nieces and their kids, and my daughter, Jenn is coming in. We’ll have a good time. I’m taking cookies for the kids to decorate…and likely make a big mess. It will be fun.
People ask how I am, and it varies from day to day…it varies throughout the day. I can be doing well and see or hear something that brings tears to my eyes. Last week I went to WDW with my sisters, and the simple fact that they spoke to their husbands every morning brought me to tears. I miss being able to share my life with Norm.
But today is a day to focus on the blessings.
Norm is in a better place, at total peace in the presence of the Lord.
Insurance has been great about paying for his hospital bills.
Norm left me with enough financial security that I don’t have to sell the house and move in with my kids. They are thankful for that too, they don’t have to worry about that.
Getting together with my kids and grandkids is always a joy. We laugh a lot, and the memories are sweet.
I am thankful for my siblings and for Norm’s brother and sister. They are an encouragement.
Friends have continued to keep in touch. Many have let me know that they are praying for me especially now because it is the first Thanksgiving without Norm.
I’m in good health and able to continue to get out and experience life.
Most of all, I am thankful for the hope I have in Jesus Christ. Not only do I have the eternal hope of heaven, but He gives me joy to celebrate each day. God is good, His mercy endures for ever and ever.
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Give thanks to the God of gods,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
To Him who alone does great wonders,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;
To Him who made the heavens with skill,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;
To Him who spread out the earth above the waters,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting;
To Him who made the great lights,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting:
The sun to rule by day,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting,
The moon and stars to rule by night,
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Psalm 136:1–9
TRICIA LATHROP 