Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Much to Be Thankful For

I just spent the week with my family in Texas for Thanksgiving. I love the fact that my family gets together with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, neices and nephews. I have a big family as most of you know and I just enjoy being with them so much. I love the laughter and the remembering of times when we were young. Without fail, every time I have to say goodbye my eyes fill up with tears. I just can't help it. But, this week there were even more tears. My Uncle Anthony went home to be with the Lord on Sunday morning before Thanksgiving. I was in the car on my way to hug his neck one last time when I got the call. I just want to take a minute to tell you all a little bit about my uncle. He made us all laugh all of the time! And I mean all the time. If you were near my uncle he would have you in stitches. He told the best ghost stories that he made up himself. My cousin and my siblings would all gather around him and just listen so intently and no matter how many times we heard the tale of the Woman and the GOOLLDDDEEENNN ARM..we would scream everytime. And want him to tell it again. He would also do great magic tricks...like swallowing all sorts of things...or at least he had us fooled.:) We would do Chinese Fire Drills in my uncles big suburban, where we would run around the car like crazy people and jump back in as fast as we could (probably not the safest thing but sure was fun) Still don't know why it was called a Chinese Fire Drill. At my uncle's house, you can be sure we always have a good time...stay up late talking and laughing....and we will continue to...Uncle Anthony wouldn't have it any other way and I am sure he is bringing such laughter and a lot of good jokes to Heaven. And in my son Aaron's words..."We sure are going to miss seeing him, but he is not going to miss us...He is having so much fun in Heaven with Jesus. I am sure they are having a party up there!"
My Aunt B is one of the strongest women I know. Her heart is pure gold and her inner strength is astounding. I love you Aunt B! And John, my cousin, words cannot express...but you know....love you!
Thanksgiving was truly a time to reflect on what...and more importantly...who I am thankful for. It was a reminder to strengthen those relationships that need to be strengthened...to say things I need to say to those who need to hear it....to love much...and to forgive much...to hug and to hold on....to give and give more....to thank God daily for my family and the many blessings that He has given me. So I encourage you to do the same. Happy Thanksgiving. Love you all.

1 comment:

BC said...

Jenn, thank you for that remembrance. It feels really good that Anthony will be remembered in your heart.
Aunt Barbara