Full tummy, full heart

Thanksgiving rocks. Yummy food, family, friends, football, and the possibility of an afternoon nap are all reasons this just might be my favorite holiday of the year. Oh, and let's not forget the 30 days of Facebook postings from people publicly sharing what they're thankful for....

This time of year is filled with nostalgia. Whether it's the smell of turkey and stuffing (dressing, as they call it in the south), or the twinkle of Christmas lights on the tree, memories are everywhere. Do you ever think back to the year before, and remember where you were, who you were with, and what you were doing? For some reason the holidays trigger memories for me like this...am I the only one?

Last year on Thanksgiving my dad came to visit and we spent the weekend playing, talking and just enjoying each others' company. The year before that was the first Thanksgiving I spent without my girls (they were with my ex), and instead of crying all day I hopped on a plane and surprised my family in Florida. This year I journeyed out to the "Country" and was surrounded with love by an incredible family who welcomed me with open arms. I even got my hands on a shotgun.

My life has been full of blessings, and I am truly thankful. It isn't always easy, especially when I don't get to share these special holidays with my children, but I do my best to be thankful in all circumstances. One of my favorite scriptures is 1 Thessalonians 5:18:, Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

With a full heart (and a full tummy) I give thanks :)

{disclaimer: no animals were harmed during the holiday shotgun show}