For this, I am THANKFUL...

I'm thankful for an unchanging God who pursues us, loved us before we loved Him, and shows grace and mercy to us, mere sinners.

I'm thankful for the sound of our truck pulling up the gravel drive every evening, and the tired, dirt-covered man who walks through the back door, lunch box in hand, to give me sweet kisses.

I'm thankful for a home filled with rowdy children who wrestle, rope, and wreck my clean house. Their muddy boots, and paper crafts, and rope swings are what make the house a home.  Their bear-hugs and angel kisses make my world go-round.

I'm thankful for the grandparents who help us care for the cattle, spoil our kids, lift us up in prayer, and make sure that our needs are met.

I'm thankful for siblings who have seen the worst side of us, but believe the best about us. They know all of our crazy family jokes, and know exactly how to get us going, but will always be there when things are tough.

I'm thankful for friends who feel like family. They love our quirks and watch over our kids like they were their own.

I'm thankful to see our cows and horses through my kitchen window while I'm doing dishes in the morning.

I'm thankful that we have livestock to tend to, and for the endless opportunity for learning that they bring to the kids.

I'm thankful that we live on a mountain with million dollar views, 4 seasons, and daily wildlife sightings that many people only read about in books.

I'm thankful for loyal old dogs who are always happy to greet me with wags of the tail, and licks to the face; And a cat that keeps my lap warm in the winter.

I'm thankful for an abundance of  homegrown beef and pork in the freezer, and that we always have enough to share with others.

I'm thankful for hay in the barn, food in the pantry, clothes in the closet, and a warm bed to sleep in.

I'm thankful for the challenges that help us grow, and the faith we gain when we can't see the light at the end of the tunnel.

I'm thankful that God supplies all of our needs.

We are blessed beyond measure.