Thursday, November 21, 2013

The Most Thankful of Thursdays

First, the obvious. I'm thankful for the lives of my sister, brother-in-law, niece, and nephew. I'm thankful for the donations, of all kinds, that have lifted spirits and helped begin the rebuilding process. And I'm thankful for the prayers, kind words, and unwavering support from family members, friends, and strangers.  

Second, the slightly less obvious. I'm thankful for my Red Cross training and experience, without which I could not have coordinated this relief and recovery effort. I'm thankful for my husband, who picked up the slack at home so that I could spend nearly every waking minute sending emails, making phone calls, and responding to text messages. And I'm thankful for my kiddos, who only complained a little about losing their mama to her computer, and for Hallie, who showed true generosity by boxing up and sending Lily at least a quarter of her toys and stuffed animals.

And third, the significantly less obvious. I'm thankful for my parents, who offered to help me pay for what will be the largest cell phone bill ever accumulated come December 1st. I'm thankful for my Kitchen-Aid stand mixer, which made it possible for me to bake for Hallie's Thanksgiving Feast and Tom's Thanksgiving Luncheon while simultaneously tracking donations. And I'm thankful I already own both right and left wrist braces to help heal my double carpal tunnel flair-up (too much typing, y'all).

Bottom line, today is Thanksgiving. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. I won't ever stop giving thanks for the lives that were spared and the good that I've witnessed. 

In other news…

Sara and Jeff are in need of a diaper genie, hair dryer, iron, and a baby monitor. If you have either of these items and would be willing to donate them, please email me at erin@chasingroots.com.

Financial donations can be made here.

Gift cards to stores like Lowe's, Target, Walmart, Kohl's, and Kroger can be sent to:

Sara Ekena
PO Box 472
Metamora, IL 61548

As I sign off for the evening, I'll leave you first with a sweet photo of Little Miss Lily settling into her new home, in her new home. I think she likes it.

And second, with a photo that stopped my heart for just a moment. Do you believe in Miracles? 

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