Feeling Thankful

Today has been all about being thankful.  Officially, it has been the Thanksgiving service of our beautiful granddaughter.  Unofficially, it has been about much more than that.

When breast cancer decided to come crashing into our lives, my daughter and son-in-law thoughtfully decided they would wait until after my initial surgery and my chemo was completed before arranging their daughter’s Thanksgiving service.  It is a big deal for them and something I am touched beyond words that they chose to delay until I was fitter than I would otherwise have been.  As such, it has become something to look forward to, a bright, shiny event on the horizon that I have aimed for, knowing that its arrival meant I was on the road to recovery.

Having a day of celebration with my family, both close and extended, around me has been perfect.  I have been so grateful for their support throughout the past months and for their fabulous food today.  When caterers were proving to be a problem, they stepped in and it was sorted with great aplomb.  To spend the day with them, with my granddaughter as the centre of attention, has meant the world.  She has been an utter bundle of delight and joy.

And I am so very thankful.  Thankful for my granddaughter; thankful for my family; thankful for their presence; thankful for their support; and thankful to my God.

As a final blessing for my granddaughter, I can do no better than the priestly blessing from Numbers 6:

24 “‘“The Lord bless you
    and keep you;
25 the Lord make his face shine on you
    and be gracious to you;
26 the Lord turn his face toward you
    and give you peace.”’