Thanksgiving 2011

We have so much to be thankful for! No matter what we are lacking or think we are lacking almost everyone I know is incredibly blessed!

We ended up being the only Americans at our Thanksgiving day feast. This was a first for us, but what an amazing time we had! There were 38 people and everyone brought dishes, they all made something that would come from a typical Thanksgiving day meal and boy did we eat well. It was fun getting to spend the day with new friends and let them experience our holiday.

Our friend Daniel carving one of the turkeys

Our back garden set up for our Thanksgiving feast

Brie made a Thanksgiving tree for us and everyone wrote on the leaves what they were thankful for. It was really special and I think this will be a new Render tradition.

Brie had all the leaves set out to write on

This was after when all the leaves were filled out

The day before Thanksgiving we were out driving in Cape Town and drove past a huge township. The houses were made out of cardboard, metal sheeting and wood slats. The houses had no bathrooms they had a row of community toilets that did flush, but I don't think they get cleaned... ewww! I thought about all those time I think our house here in SA is too small, compared to our homes in the states it is small. But, compared to these shacks we have plenty.

I am praying that this year I can remember how blessed I am and that my hand will always extend to the poor and needy. There are so many needs here and it can be overwhelming, but God always brings His plan into view and we can meet the needs of the few he puts in front of us.

We had 3 of the guys Shelby works with from Ocean view at our Thanksgiving. Joe said he had never eaten turkey before, but boy did they eat that day. We laughed because we had never seen such full plates. I'm so thankful to be able to do life with these guys and to just have the opportunity to love on them.

Here are 2 of Shelby's guys Keenan and Joe posing with Daniel and Drew

I pray you all find yourselves grateful for the many blessings that you have. Please use your resources wisely and I pray that you live open handed with those God has put in your life.

Blessings abundantly,
Andrea