A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2006/11/20061116-8.html

 

Thanksgiving Day, 2006
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

      Thanksgiving 2006

As Americans gather with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, we give thanks for the many ways that our Nation and our people have been blessed.

The Thanksgiving tradition dates back to the earliest days of our society, celebrated in decisive moments in our history and in quiet times around family tables. Nearly four centuries have passed since early settlers gave thanks for their safe arrival and pilgrims enjoyed a harvest feast to thank God for allowing them to survive a harsh winter in the New World. General George Washington observed Thanksgiving during the Revolutionary War, and in his first proclamation after becoming President, he declared November 26, 1789, a national day of "thanksgiving and prayer." During the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln revived the tradition of proclaiming a day of thanksgiving, reminding a divided Nation of its founding ideals.

At this time of great promise for America, we are grateful for the freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution and defended by our Armed Forces throughout the generations. Today, many of these courageous men and women are securing our peace in places far from home, and we pay tribute to them and to their families for their service, sacrifice, and strength. We also honor the families of the fallen and lift them up in our prayers.

Our citizens are privileged to live in the world's freest country, where the hope of the American dream is within the reach of every person. Americans share a desire to answer the universal call to serve something greater than ourselves, and we see this spirit every day in the millions of volunteers throughout our country who bring hope and healing to those in need. On this Thanksgiving Day, and throughout the year, let us show our gratitude for the blessings of freedom, family, and faith, and may God continue to bless America.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Thursday, November 23, 2006, as a National Day of Thanksgiving. I encourage all Americans to gather together in their homes and places of worship with family, friends, and loved ones to reinforce the ties that bind us and give thanks for the freedoms and many blessings we enjoy.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Over the river and threw the woods.. Holiday planning

It's that time of year again!  Thanksgiving is going to be here soon and then before you know it CHRISTmas and then New Years and THEN my 30th Birthday (Jan. 19th.. don't you dare forget it!!).  The winter Holiday months seem to fly by with all the activity and parties and shopping.  Between all that, let's not forget to be thankful, and remember our blessings and those who bless us!  Actually we should do that every day all year long *wink*

 This year we are going out of town for Thanksgiving and Christmas.  You would think with our big new house and new sleeper couch ppl would come to US.. lol.. but no.. its time to get away and enjoy family time with those we hardly see.

Thanksgiving we are going to Virginia to see Josh's Aunt and Uncle and cousins we have only seen at the once a year family reunions.  We are really excited about this trip.  First family trip together this year and to a part of the country we never go to.  They live about an hour out side of DC so we will also get to take in some of the sights of the Capitol. I know one of AOL's headquarters is in that area too.. and I made the comment to Josh that it would be neat to take a tour since I read the AOL's Editors blog and hear so much about it but the comment he made in return I can't print.. may put up some red flag and then we'd have Home Land Security here and all that and it just wouldn't be a good thing..(that was sarcasm just in case some bonehead can't tell).  Josh has something against AOL.. as if I spend sooooooo much time on it @@.

 In stead of flying we are renting a nice van and are going to brave the 12 hour drive. A lot cheaper then if we all flew. We are planning on leaving late Tuesday night so the kids will sleep most of the way.  Praying for good weather!  We need to stock up and bring with us Saint Louis Gooey Butter Cake and Missouri Wine.  I always like brining somethings from our area as gifts for our hosts.

For Christmas we are going to my family up in Wisconsin.  My mom is so excited because all her babies will be together this year.  My brother got out of prison this week and I hope he stays out of trouble so we can see him.  It's been a few years since we all were together for Christmas.  It's been a year since I have seen any of my family.

Josh "says" he is going to try and stay in town for work till after the Holidays.  He is going to be gone all of January and it is a big trip (he doesn't like me to talk about it because its out of the country *ahem* and people are giving him a hard time for going AND it is a government contract so there is also security issues.  I've probably said too much with just that lol)  But I have learned that when he says something about work not to depend on it because it changes daily almost and I know there is a job coming up in New Mexico that he may be asked to go on.  And ofcourse there are pros and cons for him going or staying here for work.  He gets more money when he is on the road but misses so much at home.. and when he is home.. well so far we have not been meshing too well but I am sure that is only more reason for him to stay home so we can get back on track.  Plus I want to get in as much time with him as a family before he does leave in January.  (guess I should kiss and make up with him huh?)

We have decided not to go over board on the Holidays this year like we did last year.  One gift for each kid.. and Josh is saying that should just be socks and underwear lol.  We want to spend our money on another family this year from our church and bless them like others have blessed us threw the years.  Plus with the traveling and being with my family we will be spending more on them then what we normally do.  Either way we need to start budgeting our money and start the shopping soon.

What are you guys planning for this year?  comment or leave a link to your entry where you talk about it.  I know I am sooooooo far behind on my blog reading!!

I don't want flowers or candy... but something thoughful would be nice.. grovel at my feet dang it!

Josh got back home Friday from being on the road all week and I don't know what it is but I have been pissed off at him almost from the time he walked in the door.  It's like he brought home some nasty spirit with him.  And then every time I begin to soften he does or says something stupid and disrespectfull. First he called me a nag... so I threw my flip flop at him and missed... it hit a full pitcher of kool aid on the table,spilling it over and broke a glass (and guess who had to clean it up).  then he committed the most grievous sin and called me the big B word... you don't call any women that.. especial your wife.. even if she is being moody. I don't call him names.  So I took my friend up on her offer and went to a party with her and stayed out till after 2 in the morning (it was a fancy party with old rich people, not too much fun and Josh kept texting me all night).  And then just when we were starting to make nice.. well I found something on his computer and he is un apologetic about it... as if being away from me for weeks at a time is an excuse.. he knows how that hurts me and how I view it as cheating...an old issue I refuse to keep having the same fight about but needless to say he is being frozen out.

If he would just make some effort to kiss my ass, some effort to make it better, make me feel better.. see that he has hurt me and try and make up for it but nope ...because of course it's all my fault right, and he doesn't see that he has done anything wrong and this is just a thing we will be over in a few days.  Why do I got to be the one to make it all right all the time??? Not this time.

I think all the turmoil played a part in me getting sick yesterday, I spent most of the day in bed. Yes he did bring me lunch and we did snuggle a bit.  He made the comment that it took me getting sick to be nice to him and hug on him, I told him that's only because my mommy wasn't around to snuggle with (cuz you know when you are sick you want comfort right).  I still had to take the kids to school and make most of dinner.. couldn't let me just loaf in bed and have quiet time.

When he went to bed I was watching a movie down stairs and fell asleep in his chair and didn't come to bed.  Not that I did it on purpose like he seemed to think this morning.

Why did God make men so stupid?

Before & After: Living room and Den/Office

My camera doesn't do my living room justice but I thought I would share because I know some of you like to see how the new house is coming along.

 

Last week while Josh was home we did some shopping and rearranging to the living room and den.  I do not want to claim ANY responsibility for that ridiculously huge (but very cool) TV.  I was not consulted on it's purchase, I advised against it and I am pretty upset that it doesn't fit into my TV hutch.  But in my husband's defense, the tv we did have in the living room was almost 12 years old and was going out in a bad way and he is a sucker for new technology... thus he left me at home when he got it and told me to ''trust him". 

After Josh got the monster tv we had to move the hallway table into the living room and it was apparent the whole look I was going for in that room was blown.  The colorful, cozy, country, kid friendly atmosphere was giving way to a darker, look don't touch, modern feel.  We had planned on just going to get lamps at Bed Bath & Beyond because I had saw a set of 4 in their ad and had a coupon.  We have needed lamps for along time and still do for the children's rooms but more so for the living room.  Josh had inisted that I not go and buy cheap ones from Wal-Mart so I have waited. So on the way we stopped at Rothman's Furniture Outlet Store.. just to see if we could get a couch for around $300 (hahahahaha ya what was he thinking)  The couch we did have was his mother's orginaly and when we got it last year from her it was in very nice shape.. but 4 children and two slobby adults didn't take long to ruain it and we were having company over soon and did feel somewhat embarassed plus we needed more seating.

I have wanted a sleeper couch that was neutral and ofcourse all the couches that was close to that were not in the set price range.  But we did get a deal because we got the love seat along with the couch.  Yes leather and suede is ambitious for this household but the children are NOT allowed on the couch (only the love seat occasionally) and they will be spending most of their tv viewing in the den anyway.  And so help me Lord if I find them in there on the couches with any food or drinks!  I have also pledged not to sleep on the couch like I have been while Josh is out of town.  

I would also like to submit this as proof that our economy is fine and dandy and my hubby works his butt off.. all is paid off.. none of it was put on credit.  LOL sure I did have to skimp some on grocery's this week and deal with a bit of guilt for spending more than what I felt comfortable with but I have been told it is ok to enjoy blessings.  Not to say that I don't realize others are struggling right now and in no way shape or form am I gloating or bragging.  I am not trying to keep up with the Jones either! (side note.. the new billboard for our subdivision says "keeping up with the Jones has never been so easy".. because the builder is The Jones Company and I HATE that saying & billboard!!)  We rarely splurge like this because there is always other needs that need to be met.  I much rather bless others then get stuff for ourselves but every once in awhile...tisk.. why do I feel like I should have to defend myself???? LOL  Anyone who knows me and my family and where we used to be and where we are now are happy for us.  I guess I always feel overwhelmed by how blessed we are and how good the Lord's provision is.  From going to food banks and renting roach infested apartments to a beautiful new home and piece by piece furnishing it.. that is a long way.

I didn't abandoned you

ohh that is a good title.. on so many levels for this post.

I do not know what it is, every time I think.. I need to get online and update my blog.. go into the office/den.. I cant tear myself away.  I can fill ream and reams of entries of all that is going threw my head but for what ever reason just haven't been able to get to it. But I do want you to know, all of my friend you have been in my thoughts and prayers even while I am away.  I have not abandoned you.

Thank you all who left such encouragement for me on my last post. God is so good how he used others to uplift me threw that time and I hope you each know you were apart of that. 

That morning I did get a call from the women who has taken over my church Ladies Group.  She lives out of town and doesn't really know me or too much about me, so when she called it was very surprising.  She told me that the Lord had kept putting my face before her, that I was really in need of prayer and he told her I was going threw a hard time, even harder then most could realize and that she felt the overwhelming need to call me and pray with me.  I tear up even now as I think of it because it was so true and I was so blessed by her obedience and her prayers and words that ministered to me that day.  God had not abandoned me.

She also does alot of public speaking and gave me some good advice.  I had not finished or was even close to writing out a testimony and she told me to just jot down the key point or key words I may want to touch on and let God do the rest.  And that is just what I did.

When I got up to speak I was following up a very moving testimony of the family who adopted a baby that was conceived by rape.  They had brought him up for all to see how love can win out... I was bawling my eyes out.  When I was introduced it was like I was there but not, I didn't recognize the person they were describing, I just kept thinking about the little boy who was spared from death, rescued outside that abortion clinic and how I wish I had known, had the guts, had the support to give my daughter up for adoption.  I am always moved by adoption stories.

I am told I did very well, some did say they were captivated by my testimony ( just like Rebbeca's comment said) and moved and ministered to.  It was surreal, the spirit did take over, no way could I have done any of this on my own strength.  There was this one women that I felt drawn to.  She was very tearful as we spoke and I prayed with her and gave her my phone number if she ever wanted to talk.  She said something that struck her was the love that shown threw in my testimony for my mother and aunt, how I was not bitter towards them.  I hope that is true because I am no at all.  That is part of forgivingness and its power in my life.  While it would be easy to hold on to that hurt for some, I have let it go and forgiven them for what ever part they played in my abortion experience, they are just part of the story now and I am careful or try to be, on how I portray them.

So as you can see.. God did not abandon me that night, nor will he abandon you if you call on him for comfort and encouragement, peace, joy, help.

And that is just the tip of the iceberg of what has been going on in my life.  He just keeps drawing me closer and closer to him.. and I have to, it seems, cling to him, seek him, fight the negative things that would bring me down.

I got used to my husband being home, even if it was just for a week.  It takes adjustment when he gets home.. we are all lovey dovey for about two days and then there is a period of adjustment of each others expectations and routines and how we do things different, and that can cause friction.  And then after all that.. he has to leave again. 

But we did get to spend some good quality time together.  We went to a dinner and a movie (A Night With The King).  We also another night went out with some of the guys he works with to a bar called House Of Rock and saw a very interesting but talented group called Tricky's Delight.  And last Friday we went to a party his company threw at the forman's bar he works for (Baby K's in the city)

Sometimes I worry about my husband.  The guys he works with are not terrible people or anything, some a bit rough around the edges but with big hearts.  They just work hard so they party hard.  The kind of lifestyle I could see myself getting sucked into if I didn't know better.  And I am afraid my husband has it in his head that he can keep road life and home life septate, be two different people, but he has to come to it on his own and see how that is not healthy and is not going to work out well for him.

I had met one of the wives, very cool lady.  Her and her hubby know all the local bands and all the hot spots to go to.    I asked her how she deals with her husband being gone so much.  She said she has come to the conclusion that its HER time and that she is going to live life for her, party and have a good time.  She suggested that when our guys are out of town we should get together and she'll take me out.  Now.. while that sounds fun and my old flesh is screaming out OHHHYAA!!... I can see how that could get me in a whole lota trouble, a trap set, ready to be sprung by the old devil himself.  But I understand where she is coming from, what she is doing, using drinking and smoking and dancing and night life to fill that void.  In my past she is just the kind of person you would of seen me hanging with.. shoot I was her.

It took the contrast of a night of fellowship and homegroup we hosted at our house to remind myself how the world is and how life really is IN Christ.  When you give your testimony it not only encourages others but reminds you how far God has brought you, where you used to be and where you are now.  I don't want to seek comfort from the things of this world, it will only bring me down and back to a dark place.  I know right where I need to be and that is surrounded by those who will bring me up, not down, that will speak words of LIFE into mine, where I can grow and draw closer to The Lover Of My Soul.

It could be so easy to be seduced into old patterns.. and I know some who are struggling with that right now.  But the best thing is to focus on where you once where in your life and all the good things and blessings God has done in your life since then.  We all have broken pieces but he is our healer, comforter, and he has promised that the good works he has started in you he will finish. HE is the author and finisher of our faith.  Stand on those promises when times are hard and keep looking forward.  We all make mistakes but today is a new day, we are being changed from glory to glory.  Don't be afraid and isolate yourself.  Ask for help and prayer, that is what family in Christ is for, to be there for each other.  The Lord has not abandoned me and he will not abandon you.