A cloud of witnesses

by chuckofish

It is the day before Thanksgiving and I’m sure you are all very busy with preparations for the big meal tomorrow. For the first time in a long time, we will not be celebrating at my house. I am going out to Wildwood to feast with my son and daughter-in-law and her entire family. I will bring my cheesy potatoes and the canned cranberry, because, well, Tradition. Daughter #1 will bring the crescent rolls. I am happy and pleased to do this and I think they are happy to host. The baton has been passed.

Praise the Lord.

Meanwhile the leaves continue to cascade down and the noise of the leaf blowers is pretty constant.

However, Christmas decorations started going up in my neck of the woods soon after Halloween and I have to say they look rather odd next to the pumpkins and large inflatable turkeys still widely displayed and all the leaves. At night Christmas trees are clearly visible through many a neighborhood window. I have to admit, even I have already put up my little tree–this year in my TV room since I spend a lot more time there than in my dining room. December will be a busy month and I have no idea when I may be called upon to drive up to the prairie to assist daughter #2 with baby #3. It might be today. So I don’t feel bad about getting a few things done ahead of schedule. I try to be flexible.

So enjoy the festivities! I hope you get dressed up to gather together. Eat heartily, drink moderately, and keep all discussions on the up and up, adhering to the Marquis of Queensbury Rules of deportment.

Above all, be thankful! Remember those who came before you and blazed the trail for you. Be thankful that you were born in this most wonderful country. And be thankful for those brave Pilgrims who settled this country so long ago. Most of all, be thankful to God: “Be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:19-20)

Happy Thanksgiving!