Thankfulness...

This time last year, AJ and I were ending our Thanksgiving holiday in the Midwest.  Last fall, it seemed as if all the pieces could fall into place to make AJ's dream of working overseas for his company a reality, but Thanksgiving of 2013 left us waiting, wondering, and praying.  There were a lot of prayers for peace, patience, and guidance.  We entered the holiday season hopeful that we could be moving to the UK in 2014.  As this goal became a reality in early 2014, we prayed for so many aspects of the move and our new life...to make new friends, to build a community, for guidance and wisdom on a multitude of decisions, and to just have faith.  As we gathered for three separate Thanksgivings this year, AJ and I reflected on our blessings in 2014.  

This year, we are thankful for...

Opportunities to make memories that would not be possible without this assignment.

Neighbors, who have embraced us, loved us, and guided us through life in the UK.

Family, who have listened to our fears and successes and encouraged us each step of the way.

A Bible study group that welcomed us with open arms and has given us a sense of community and belonging.

Friends to sit around a Thanksgiving table to celebrate a truly American holiday.

Most of all, we are thankful for courage to step out of the comfortable life we knew and into an adventure that will shape us in ways we do not even know.

As we end this holiday weekend counting our blessings, remember the lights are always on!

~W