The "I"s Have It!

Today I am thankful for:

Ice: There is a skating rink outside my window, on the south lawn of the church, along with a huge mound of snow. There is no school today for the elementary kids, so the daycare is active. The kids are sliding down the snowbanks and then shooting across the ice! It is so fun to see them. It energizes me and helps me remember the JOY of being a child. And the JOY that we are all children of God. Today I will try to keep a child-like attitude and faith. Not childish, but child-like!

Ice Cream: I know it's close to ice, but how could I NOT be thankful for ice cream?! I love the stuff. I was definitely born with my Grandma Murken's sweet tooth. My dad loves ice cream, too, so I probably also get it from him. He took me out for ice cream every friday night when I was growing up. That was awesome, not just because of the ice cream, but because I got to spend time with my dad. My seminary roomie, Emily, and I would often go for ice cream together too, when we had a bad day or wanted to celebrate something. It is so good to enjoy God's gifts with people that we love!

Italy: For their delicious food, their culture of welcome and family, and their beautiful country. I am so thankful I have had the chance to go there. I loved the landscape and the architecture, and the spirit of the people.

Prayer: Living the Baptism of Christ

Holy God, before time you named us
Through time you redeem us
You call us, precious in your sight
May we love as you love.

Holy One, through the turbulent waters
Make us steady, your hands
Holding strong the fragile and weak
May we love as you love.

Gracious God, may the fruits of our lives
be food for the hungry, bread
clothing, shelter, fire, water, Word
May we love as you love.

God of justice, remove the chaff
Of our lives that keep us from
Hearing, following, Your call
May we love as you love.

Loving God, take this day our fears our
Worries, distractions, and all
Turn them into wheat, heart food
May we love as you love.
Amen

(from RevGalBlogPals blog)