Grati-

I've been writing this post for several weeks. The last several days it's been on my mind a great deal. I held it until today because it's deserving of a Gratituesday post.

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I'm grateful to a family from Washington state who I've known for 32-33 years. This time of year always takes me back to the four years we lived in Washington, where we met Sam and Marlene and their family. From my childhood perception, they had the most positive impact on our family over any other family I can think of.

Before we moved to Washington State only my mom and I attended church. When we moved my dad began going to church with us. My parents became very involved in all of the church activities. They worked with the teens, and held activities for young kids.

Sam and Marlene befriended us and taught my parents a lot about worshipping and fellowshipping. They had us in their home often and I always remember feeling welcome. After a while I was allowed, without asking, to go to the basement and get their daughters old Barbies to play with. They nurtured us, loved us, and taught us about God's love, and about the family that you gain when you're a believer.

What is it about fall that reminds me of Sam and Marlene? Well...They had a farm, of sorts. I don't remember much about it, but I remember vividly two events that took place every fall. One was they grew pumpkins to give to all the children aged 10 and under. I thought it was the COOLEST thing, that people would actually grow pumpkins to give to church kids. I was the recipient for years, of their pumpkins. (Alan, I forgive you for punching me in the stomach, with a pumpkin, the year you thought I was too tall to be ONLY nine years old:-}

The other fall event was a fun teen harvest party held in their barn. I enjoyed it so much. There was a great deal of talent in that youth group. They always put on silly skits and sang funny songs. I'm not sure why those two fall activities stick out in my mind. Maybe because Sam and Marlene were so warm, and I had special feelings toward them, and because they are the ones who taught us about opening your heart and home to others.

The warm feelings for Sam and Marlene remain even today. Fall always reminds of how the love of strangers, turned family by Christ's blood, changed my life and the lives of my future generations forever. Right now, the blessings they bestowed on my parents are reaching a third generation. I wouldn't be who I am today without the their guidance.

Thank you Sam and Marlene for your faithfulness. You made a difference in my life. What a way to honor the King!