There is so much to be thankful for on the farm, and in my life in general. We have fresh eggs most days available to us. We have cuddly critters who love to have their ears and

I really do love this little guy. Razberry “Goatie” Foust

bellies scratched (I’m talking about the goat here…ha!). We have fresh meat several times a year. And, in my mind, we have lessons–important ones–right at our fingertips to teach our children.

Our two eldest daughters both participate in 4-H with sheep, chickens, and now pigs. They have papers and records they have to prepare and turn in, messes to clean, animals to bathe,

Abby helping me clean the little chicken coop

and feeding and watering to keep up with each day. If they don’t do their chores, there are consequences–animals die. What a life lesson in that! They are already learning responsibility and dedication and that even when they don’t feel like it they have to participate in the care of their animals. I am so very thankful for that.

We have had a lot of good changes this year. We’ve expanded our farm to include pigs, my book has been published (woohoo!), my husband has been attending UT Martin online since January, and our children are healthy (which compared to last year is really saying something for the little ones!)

I had a wow! moment the other day that I am thankful for too. A friend of mine texted me and said, “Hey, I’m reading your book and I love it so far!” It really struck me. People are holding my book in their hands and reading the words I prayed over–and being touched by those words. This particular person said she could especially relate to Kat’s feelings of grief and guilt. I hope by the time she finishes the book, she can relate to Kat’s feelings of forgiveness and love too. Her telling me that is one of the most fulfilling and exciting things that has happened to me in my life. What a good God we serve! That He would take little, imperfect me and use me to help others. I am so humbled and honored by that. And I am so thankful that He has called me to this upcoming mission trip. It’s scary and intimidating and bigger than I am, but I trust Him. He knows what He is doing and to include me in a small part of the bigger picture is just an amazing feeling. To use the book sales toward the mission trip is amazing too. I never saw that coming, but God’s hand has been in each step of the way. He knew all along the plan, even when I had no clue.

There are more things in my life than I can name that I am thankful for. I hope that you will take the time today (and I am pretty sure you will) to reflect on the blessings God has abundantly given you. “And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.”–John 1:16

Next week begins my winter series: Books to Beat the Winter Blues. I’ll be hosting Donna Schlachter. And Monday starts a giveaway I am participating in, so I’ll be putting up an extra-special announcement with details (it’s a biggie and I hope you’ll enter for a chance to win over 40 books!) See you soon! As always, thanks for being here (I’m thankful for you too). If you haven’t yet signed up for my newsletter, now’s the time! In December, there will be a special Holiday edition plus the regular edition (each with special extras!)