Attitudes of Gratitude

Sitting down to write, I contemplated listing so many of the things I'm thankful for, bullet point by bullet point. But I don't have that much time. Or space. Or coffee. And you probably don't either! ;)

A consistent theme that's been woven into conversations, Bible studies, messages, even songs, is approaching not only the upcoming holiday season, but all of life with an attitude of gratitude. Circumstances can sure make that one tough to live out regardless of each circumstance, positive or negative! But for a lover and follower of Jesus, it's doable. And quite probable! Even in the sudden death of someone who is/was loved by so many, there is a reason to offer up a prayer of thanks as we think of Darrel now sitting at the feet of Jesus, praising his Savior and Lord. He's no longer among those on earth who loved him dearly, but a sweet reunion awaits some day, and for so many others who have gone before us! Praise God in this storm...and every storm...."Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Having an attitude of gratitude has also been a running topic for these gents of ours the past few weeks. As they write down whatever it is they are thankful for on that leaf after dinner, sometimes we hear the stories behind the item or person written down, and at other times it needs no explanation. Their sincerity is met with laughter and tears...some days I can't praise the Lord enough for this house full of boys!!



Realizing even more just how much an attitude affects the outcomes of so many situations, it has caused me to pause a bit more before shooting off a complaint. That's usually the easier thing to do, and sometimes quite relieving....let's be honest. But it's made me think twice before choosing to be ungrateful about something when really, in the grand scheme of it all, I truly have nothing to complain about!! Remaining kingdom-minded. The Victory has already been won. Staying under the umbrella of God's presence as long as I have life and breath on this earth will only aid in the continual "work in progress" until He calls me/us home!

lots of laughs and rich conversation with these amazing ladies!!



Winter Jam 2014 in Boise, ID!!! (and it definitely felt like winter!)

post concert...hello snow!! (Tami, Kelly, KJ)

 

a little shopping & snow & starbucks...

...& more selfies!! ;) (wink wink...haha!!)



More laughs with these beauties at the Holiday Extravaganza!

An attitude of gratitude. Not easy, but necessary. And in humility, we really do have SO MUCH to praise Him for!!


"unfiltered" NV sunset--God's paintbrush very often leaves us speechless :)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" 2 Corinthians 9:15

Mason is 5!!!!!

5.     5!   
What is it about this particular birthday that seems like such a milestone? Or at least more of a big deal than turning 3 or 4?? *sigh*   Either way, our mini-man is growing up much too quickly, just like his older brothers, and there is no slowing this guy down! And I mean that in a very literal sense. :)

Planes: Fire and Rescue party...per his request!

Mason daily causes a chuckle with his ever-expanding, expressive vocabulary (just this morning he talked about an owl that was in our tree referring to him as "the BIG guy", who was "literally in that tree all night long"...wide-eyed with a side of hand motions to get his point across), his sentiments always sincere and thoughtful, and he harbors a stubbornness just like his Grandpa Morrie ;). Our guy is definitely one with a big personality, and an even bigger heart. The tantrums come and go, the pouting lip has been perfected, and we have a steady supply of band-aids on hand with his name on the box. A song is always on his lips and while driving here and there, it's his little voice behind me carrying that worshipful tune that someday I know I'm really going to miss. Ok. I won't go there. :)

never a dull moment...

always runnin!



many moments like this with his Grandpa!

A mini-man Mason birthday posting...nothing more. A time to praise God for his precious life and how he's already brought so much joy to so many; a continual prayer being offered up for Mason's life and that God would use this spunky, outgoing, lovin-life type of little guy, in big ways for HIS honor and glory.

tackling people as his way of saying thanks for the bday gifts

Planes: Fire and Rescue cake!

Our handsome 5-year old! :)

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY MASON ROGER!!!!

On the shores of Tahoe

We decided to shake things up a bit this year and for-go the traditional costume and candy craze, heading to Lake Tahoe for some R&R as a fam of five over the 3-day Halloween weekend. With no school on Friday in honor of Nevada Day it was the perfect chance to escape! Not only did we enjoy the shores and snow of Tahoe, but we also took in some fun festivities in Carson City on Saturday celebrating Nevada's 150th birthday!

The Granath Lake House never disappoints. :) The boys' adventurous side comes out in full force as massive boulders are climbed, new "caves" discovered, beach-combing treasures pocketed, etc.


love our little gents

my guys!

Mason's little hideout

Carson doing some rock building ;)
 

Our Austin! This was a HUGE rock!



B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L!!!

their 'cave hideout' :)

Our CJ!!

our attempt at a very windy family photo ;)

waves were splashing up all day! We were 'sprayed' a few times...Brrrrr!!!!

Mason's classic pose...hand on hips :)

had to get a pic with my love! <3

The storm rolling in over the mountains!!

 Time for caramel apples!!



Yum!! (and quite sticky....)

Our Halloween night this year...rainy night/fireplace/Charlie Brown...ahhhhh :)

headed to the parade...it really was that 'gray'!

But then there was this--love the snow! We drove in awe of our Creator....:)

parade ready!!!

banner captures it all!

Humboldt County float...nice job Rorex family!!



after a chilly and busy day, family movie night in front of the fire :)

I can't even believe that the holiday season is already upon us...upcoming birthday celebrations are in the works as is the start of some of our favorite Anderson traditions. Stay tuned!! ;)