Indeed, I Am Thankful!

While many of my friends in the Western Hemisphere are just preparing for their Thanksgiving day and its feasts, family gatherings, fellowship, fun and even some football, I am reflecting on a full day and a full stomach. : )

Among the things I am most grateful for today is that I did NOT miss the boat for Thanksgiving! Rain that began last night continued into the morning hours and a boat that I normally take for the 1-1/2 hours to Jinja, skipped my village.

Disheartened and fighting back tears, I trudged through mud and puddles, praying I would find a boat at the other end of the island. As I approached the shore, my grateful eyes saw a boat landing, which would take me to Jinja. Yay!

This afternoon I joined fellow missionaries, most of whom are serving here in Uganda with Global Outreach, in a special time of fellowship, praise, and feasting at Good Shepherd's Fold (GSF), an orphanage outside Jinja.

For those of you wondering what we eat here in Uganda for Thanksgiving - let me tell you, I don't think any traditional element was lacking. We enjoyed savory turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, brown gravy, green bean casserole, cornbread pudding, macaroni and cheese (okay, it's not traditional, but it is American), cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, salad, rolls, cookies, pies... Oh, no wonder I am so full!

After almost missing the boat in the morning, I was very thankful I didn't miss this special Thanksgiving celebration with my "family" here - those among the children of God in Uganda.

Here are some photos, to give you a "taste" of my day. : )

Bob and Michelle Peterson leading us in some praise music. (Michelle is holding Johnathan Smith.)

The Smith family enjoying their Thanksgiving meal.

We even had Indians at our feast! From left: Katie (from England), who is working as a nurse at GSF, Sarah, a visitor and cousin of Amanda, far right, who is here teaching missionary children and ministering to children and youth at GSF. Can you see Katie's patriotic "warpaint" on her cheeks? She was really getting into the spirit! :)

The feast

The feasters

Drinking ginger soda

David with one of his favorite buddies - Josiah Peterson

 

 I love this little guy (Johnathan Smith)!
He was wearing a "Thanksgiving" outfit, complete with turkeys and other holiday-related pictures, and a patch that read "1st Thanksgiving."

I want to wish all of you a most happy and blessed Thanksgiving! May our thoughts and praises be toward our Awesome God - from Whom ALL blessings flow!