So I know that, right now, everyone is more focused on baking and brining than what we are thankful for. I get that. I’ve never cooked an entire Thanksgiving meal in my life and have zero desire to do so.

But I imagine it’s a crucible.

I have been blessed with a brother and sister-in-law, who actually enjoy the cooking process. So, while everyone else is stuck in cart-to-cart traffic at the Shoprite then stirring and mashing and chopping, I get to cut up cheese, throw it on a tray with crackers and call it a day.

Anyway, that leaves time to consider the thankful thing and discuss it with our boys.

I am sharing our “What I’m Thankful For” lists with you. There could be thousands of things but here’s just a few:

Jeff and Katie – our jobs, wonderful friends and community, endless support from my mom and Martin, God’s grace and provision, Justin’s continued healing, health of Nicky and Michael, healing of Jeff’s eyes, Advil, caffeine, fried chicken, Taco Bell, soda. Above all, for the salvation and love of Jesus Christ.

Nicky – Buddy, Gizmo, friends, food and TV.

Michael – Buddy, that he qualifies for the school spelling bee, food and football.

Justin – Buddy, the Xbox, Cheezits, McDonald’s, Mac and cheese, Friendly’s, milk, meatballs and football. Oh and mommy.

Yup, their answers are very kid-appropriate as they should be (okay some of mine were, too). But, then Justin went into this deep, insightful speech about how he sees that God is working in his life even though he “got cancer.”

Jeff said he’s either going to be a minister or middle linebacker. Maybe both.

Happy Thanksgiving and lots of love from our family to yours. God is truly good to His children. Grace be with you, my friends.

Don’t forget the cranberry sauce.