Happy Thanksgiving!

I can't get away with not doing a "thankful list" for this year!

I had a wonderful Thanksgiving day with my co-workers, which are of course like family at this point. We also shared the day with our other teammates who work in Georgia (the country). It was a busy morning as I rushed around making green bean casseroles and a corn pudding casserole. I managed to have only 1 kitchen disaster--the blender bottom totally unscrewed from the blender and I was left with a blob of creamed corn on my counter. Ooops! After finishing my part of the dinner, I headed next door to help finish the preparations. We were so ready to eat when the turkey was finally done! Of course, we had all the traditional fixins! Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, my casseroles, garlic cheese biscuits, pumpkin pie, apple pie, pumpkin roll, pumpkin bread, chocolate pie, pecan sticky buns! Ok, ok, we were a little heavy on the desserts! It was a good day eating, hanging out, playing games, and laughing.

This year I am thankful for my co-workers who add so much to life here. I have a roommate this year, and I'm so thankful for her.

I'm thankful for my dad's health and my aunt's health. They have both been through a lot medically this year. It's not easy being away from family during those times. I'm thankful that God never leaves.

I'm thankful for my family. I know it's not easy for them to have me overseas. I'm thankful they understand the importance of my work. Part of who I am is because of you.

I'm thankful for my Armenian friends. They love me, help me, and serve with me.

I'm thankful for my American friends. I know that there are some of you who have not forgotten me just because I'm far away. I know you pray for me. It means so much. Really.

I'm thankful for Berrik. I am blessed to have such an understanding and patient guy in my life. His friendship is priceless. I'm thankful he was able to visit this year.

I'm thankful that God has put a love for the Armenians in my heart. I couldn't be here without that.

I'm so thankful for God's faithfulness and constancy. He has never wavered, although I often do. This past year has been full of lots of twists, turns, ups, and downs...and the way I felt changed so often.

I'm thankful that God has helped me adjust to this country, culture, and language. That was my focus this time last year....just adjusting and getting by. Praise God...he has proven faithful in each step of transitioning to the other side of the world.

I'm thankful that amid all the dirty streets and apartment buildings, I can see Mt Ararat on clear days, enjoy the nature in the village, and go on hikes not far away.

I'm thankful for my English students. They make me laugh. They provide me with opportunities to help and share my heart.

I'm thankful for those who give financially so that the work here can continue. And because of your giving, I can have the things I need. I can live and work here without worrying about my next meal or how I'm going to pay for gas in the winter. Your giving has eternal impact.

I'm thankful for all those who send me things through the mail or through volunteers. All the Velveeta, rotel, and butterfingers are so appreciated! Not to mention new clothes, music, or cards.

I am incredibly blessed. Thank you Jesus, for the gift of salvation and new life. Thank you for forgiveness and second chances. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and these precious people.