Lighting a Candle

Several years ago, the song "Light a Christmas Candle" (by Truth) came into our music library. Basically, it says to light a candle for those you love who aren't with you during the holiday season. This year, our family is spread out across our country (and beyond!) and we will not all be together ... so, today, as we sit down to eat with Linda and Paul, the candles will be lit for our sweet family ...

One for my Mom & Dad ... who are spending Thanksgiving in Israel. We wish they were at least on our same continent, but we know that they are living a dream. For so many years, Thanksgiving meant more than turkey and mashed potatoes (and black olives!) ... it meant eating a huge meal with strangers. Seriously. Perhaps I should say "strangers to us" ... there was the year of the homeless man and the year Jen couldn't remember the people's names and said "Hey you at the end of the table, what are you thankful for?" (Only funnier because it is on video tape!) You have taught us how to love others and how to share what we have. We miss you terribly!

One for Laurie and Tim ... we are thankful for each of you. So proud of who your kiddos are becoming ... and, a bit sad that they are getting so grown up (it means we are getting older!) Laurie, you have always been the "other mother" ... willing to do whatever and at the same time to be the voice of reason. It was also nice to have you growing up because nobody messed with me!

One for Jennifer and Ryan ... and, Ben and Carly. Jen, you are without a doubt one of the most caring people EVER. Because of that you have gotten stuck with some "leachers" in your day ... but, you always made them feel like they were so special to you. If only I could be as compassionate as you!

One for Stephen ... who should have 3 or 4 lit for him for just surviving 3 sisters! We were not kind ... and, since we are adults, I feel you should know it was the other two. I tried to stop them ... really. We will miss you this Thanksgiving ... I thought about not making the rolls because you wouldn't be here, but, Torrey wouldn't have any of it. Blame her.

One for Glenn and Robin ... and the girls and the men in their lives and the children who are scrumptious! You have had a year ... and, made it to the other side. We are so proud of your strength and courage. We see each of your beautiful girls every day when we look at Torrey ... she could be one of them, seriously! She still curses Hurricane Ike for ruining our week with you ... counting down until March!

One for Ronnie and Debby ... and the rest of the gang that are beginning to number the stars! You have much to be thankful for ... especially with the sweet addition of Leah Grace. You have been role models for Dean ... but, he still dreams of the day when he will be able to beat you (or Glenn!) in tennis or basketball. Someday.

One for Mike and Debbie ... thoughtful comes to mind immediately. You are willing to do whatever and we are so thankful for that. We pray that your time with Amy and Eric and the kiddos will be sweet and filled with memories!

And, since Linda and Paul are with us, one for Paul Andrew and one for Mike and Jess ... our hearts (and, conversations!) will be filled with you. Remembering trips to the beach house ... turtles and horse flies .. oh my! Mike and Jess, we are especially excited for what the next few days/weeks are going to bring you ... oh how we are praying ... we can't wait for that sweet girl to be placed in your arms!

As we look around us, there is much to cause concern, but, in spite of it all, there is much to be thankful for. This Thanksgiving, we pray that you would be surrounded by those you love, that your day would be filled with great memories and that above all else, God would hold you in His hands. We love you and so wish we could be together!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Love,
Dean, Tracy and Torrey