Happy Thanksgiving from the Motherland

It's a bit strange trying to celebrate Thanksgiving here in Russia. There's no pictures of pilgrims, or turkeys, or the cornstalks all tied together in neat little displays. No smell of turkey coming from the kitchen. There are no hints of it anywhere. Not that I expected there to be considering it's an American holiday. I do have a lot to be thankful for though.

I'm thankful that God is by my side first and foremost...I know that's so cliche...I sound like I'm giving a speech at an Oscar ceremony. Seriously though if it wasn't for Jesus Christ, I wouldn't be where I'm at.

I'm thankful for an awesome wife. I can't even begin to describe how much I love her. There are not enough words to describe how amazing she is to me and our children. On that note, I''m thankful for two awesome kids who are so smart and creative...not to mention well behaved. That's always a plus.

I'm thankful for all of my friends who have laughed with me, cried with me, and stood by my side through thick and thin. I'm thankful for having two parents who have showed me that love can surpass money any day...and there's always enough left over to get through tough times. I'm thankful to have a Pastor who is like a father to me and who has a heart like no one else I know. I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve the Lord in a foreign country. It has been a challenging and rewarding experience. I'm thankful for all the people whose prayers and support have made this possible. I can go on and on because I have so much to be thankful for.

Thank you Lord for all you have given me and all you have done for me. I only hope that I can be useful to you for all the rest of my days here on this earth. Use me for your glory...send me where you want me. I can lastly thank You for being faithful and trustworthy. You have never failed me. I have never been rich in my wallet but I have always been rich in my heart since I met you...and for this I am yours until I breathe my last breath.