Marylou prepared turkey and stuffing and mashed potatoes and gravy for 100 people at Pilot Knob today. Looks pretty good for having been up since 4:00 slaving in the kitchen. There were many many people grateful for Marylou on this Thanksgiving Day.
All of those that attended the feast brought a dish to share. We were all grateful for each other - not just the goodies they prepared but the joy of sharing the day with others - the "on the road" family.
And those of us who help out around the park were very grateful for everyone who pitched in to clean up.
It was a good meal and a good day. But a big meal on Thanksgiving Day isn't what gratitude is all about.
I'm most grateful for the children in Mexico that I have gotten to know in the last couple of years. I'm grateful for Marylou and Jack for making that connection possible.
I'm grateful for the little girl who is growing up so quickly...
and can bring such a heartfelt look of happiness to Mike's face when she sneaks up on him.
My heart is filled with gratitude for Marta; a fine mom and a wonderful help at the house.
When I look in these big brown eyes, I am so grateful to be in this place at this time. And I pray the love and hugs I share will somehow last...
Delia isn't going to like this picture, but I see a dedicated woman who shares her whole life and all her experiences and all her learning and all her love with these children - So grateful for Delia!
(Oh, did I tell you that most of these pictures were taken by the children, including this one.)
As the girls play house and move furniture, I am grateful for all the people who have donated so much in terms of time and money and "stuff" so that these kids can play in a safe and happy and healthy environment.
I'd be lying if I didn't tell you that sometimes I am just plain grateful for the laughter these kids can stimulate. This is quite a look, huh???
Do you see the heart shaped jumprope? I'm grateful for the signs I'm given to slow down and watch and listen and love.
Curiosity? Fear? Playfulness? I wish this wee little one had a "thought bubble" attached to her; never sure what she is thinking... Grateful for her apprehension; I am sure it will serve her well in life.
This young lady hasn't always been so serious. Being hungry and in a difficult place right now has changed her. I'm grateful we can feed her and let her know she is loved.
This beautiful "almost a lady" is showing us how capable she is... in addition to being charming and loving.
She is helping out Delia on Saturdays and is very nurturing. I'm grateful for her ability to cope!
And her ability to give and receive love.
Where could he be and what could he be doing that would give him this much unabashed joy?
Or make him put on his silly face?
Or make her give her camera away and strike a goofy pose?
Or bring this gal to the house weekly with milk and eggs and other necessities?
The children for which we are all grateful. The children who wonder about us
and listen to our funny sounding speech
and give us smiles
and tease us
and try to take "selfies" with a real camera... not an easy task...
I'm grateful for my ability to help. And to share that work with so many others.
Take a minute to look at the last few pictures. Smile and give thanks for the wonderful children in your life and for your ability to help them learn and grow and become...
As my daily reading said this morning, "Gratitude is an important ingredient of life."
Until next time, Don't forget to listen when God Whispers and Respond When He Nudges.
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