what we need

Honestly, it doesn't feel like the Thanksgiving holiday is upon us, but here we are...

This year will be different since Mark & I are staying in WI. Not that we didn't stay home in the years before; we did. But we had friends that did their family things before the actual day, so we'd celebrate together. This year will probably be quiet, and I'm OK with that. Mostly because I'll be working a combined total of 17 hours on Black Friday...

Anyway, this year I feel that I've been more reflective than in years past. It's a good thing. I'm feeling a 'growth spurt' of the spiritual sort, and my heart is closer to where it belongs: in thanksgiving to the One who loves me unconditionally & eternally.

We've been blessed with a church family who have only known us for a short time, but are loving us with the love of Jesus. The sermons have been scriptural and applicable, and have challenged Mark & I to keep learning and growing in our faith...I love our discussions after church and throughout the week. 

This past Sunday morning we sang this song:

We got to the part that says, "My heart will sing/no other name/Jesus/Jesus," and as I was singing his name I felt his presence like I haven't in a long time. Just goes to show how truly powerful the name of Jesus really is. It was so unexpected and so beautiful. Well, except the part with mascara all down my face. :) 

I am truly thankful for that intimate moment...God truly knows what you need, & when you need it.

Have I mentioned...

how much I love fall? Mark posted a few photos on Facebook, but this is what I did yesterday before I went to work:

Pumpkin seeds....texture didn't turn out exactly how I like them, but  not bad for my first try. :)

Pumpkin cream cheese muffins. Aren't they pretty? 

And I should mention...DELICIOUS!
Here's the recipe I used: 

http://www.mennonitegirlscancook.ca/2011/10/pumpkin-cream-cheese-muffins.html 

I didn't have ground ginger, and I don't think it would have made a big difference at all. I'm not a ginger lover anyway.

And here's our cute pumpkin. :)

I couldn't help myself. I had leftover canned pumpkin in my fridge, and a carving pumpkin on the balcony that never got carved. I cut the top to scoop out the 'guts' and drew on a face with a sharpie because I felt bad. Hey, I was lazy this year.