Oh Happy Day!

As you know 2011 has held many ups and downs for the Gibbs family.  But I would like to introduce you to the most precious addition of the year!  This is my grandson, Bracen Cross.  News of Bracen came in January and admittedly some aspects of that announcement were difficult and painful.  I love the Word..."They that sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." Psalm 126:5 This Thanksgiving, we did just that.  I danced in the yard with my nieces and nephews to Oh Happy Day!  And a happy day it was!  We reaped a little joy!

Things were certainly missing, namely two very precious women in my life whom I dearly love.  This was our first Thanksgiving without my mom, but as I enjoyed the beautiful meal prepared by the ladies in our family...I wondered what my momma's banquet table looked like!!?  I loved the thought of Jesus carvin' a big ole turkey.  I think He likely did!  We enjoyed fellowship and games while watching a little football and having yet another piece of pie.  It was a good day. 

As is tradition in our family, the girls were up bright and early (well actually still very dark) and the guys were off for their Friday after Thanksgiving hunt!  Of course Bracen enjoyed his first annual day with the boys!

Many changes this year.  But we are blessed and highly favored.  We have much to be thankful for. My family is healthy.  My kids are the delight of my life.  My husband is my best friend.  All of my family is near and precious to me.  I have the best friends.  I love my work.  Christmas is coming.  Christ is on the throne.  I have a new daughter-in-law.  I am a GiGi.  I am thankful.

 

Through a Child's Eyes

I had the privilege of taking my youngest niece to pre-school this morning.  It had been a long night.  My sister called last evening to say that one of my nieces had broken her arm.  We all immediately snapped into action; picking up kids, getting them tended to, sitting in the ER, calling relatives, waiting on pain meds, being with my sister and brother-in-law.  Crazy night.  This morning I was on car pool duty so Cara could be home with Brylee.  As usually, it seemed like the morning moments flew by until we were completely out of them and running behind!

I had gotten all of the older children dropped off and was headed to town to get Willis (ok Laynee, but she's Willis to me :)) to school.  On the way, I made at least 3 phone calls and had already re-arranged my schedule for the day.  Life and its crazy busy -ness can over take me sometimes.

Just as we hurriedly pulled up to our destination...3 year old Willis said, "Look Aunt Candy at that beautiful bird on the light pole."  Can I tell you that that simple observation by a child changed my day?  Immediately I was reminded of a topic that the Lord and I have covered hundreds of times...enjoy your life.  Lift up your head.  Appreciate the provision and gifts from the hand of the Father.  Breathe fresh air.  Watch children play. Laugh.  Live.

Praying that you notice the bird on your light pole today.