East or West, Home is Best

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Last week I spent 4 days in Georgia and this week I'm in California for 4 days. Next week, I'll be back east in Massachusetts for 4 days, I'll then in Missouri for two days (actually, not even quite that long) and then I'll be back in California for 2 days.

In between each trip, I'll be home in Texas for a day or two, maybe three depending on the week. Each place is great as each state is beautiful, the people I encounter are kind and so easy to work with... or, in the case of the trip to Missouri I get to spend time with family that I don't see nearly as often as I would prefer.

However, what has stood out to me the most is that, whether I am east or I am west or I am right in the middle of the country, Home is Best. And, I don't mean the state of Texas when I say that. Oh, yes... there are many things about Texas that I love. But, when I say "HOME" I mean the home I have with my husband and children.

God has truly blessed me with the family he has given to me. I couldn't ask for more. I have always felt so blessed to have the parents, sisters, extended family that God gave me. Since I got married almost 14 years ago (our anniversay is next week!) God has shown me even more in the way of family blessings.

He has given me a husband that is so kind and loving. Regardless of what I might say or do... his love is unconditional. He supports me in all that I do and follows that with helping me in any way that he can. He loves our children dearly and is involved in every aspect of their lives. I don't travel for work too often, but when I do as I have lately, he takes care of everything back home without a worry or a complaint. I certainly miss them all when I'm gone, but I don't have to worry. I know he's got it all under control.

God has given two of the most absolutely adorable, fun-filled, sweet kids ever (I know, I know.. all Moms say that, but I REALLY mean it!.. smile).

Josh is my almost always positive child, who is easily excitable with the type of excitement that is just impossible to keep inside and hide from anyone. Such a joy... it is hard to be down when this kid is up!

Abby, my sweet and giving and easy to laugh little girl. She tells us she loves us at least a half a dozen times everyday... without fail. She shares her little heart openly and expresses such sweet concern for others... her teachers, schoolmates, friends... really anyone that she encounters.

As I sit in sunny California on this evening, I'm saying a special prayer of Thanksgiving for the "HOME" God has given me. I love you, my sweet family, and can't wait until I see you on Friday!



What are you thankful for today? Join us in sharing our thanksgivings this week by visiting Laurie at "Women Taking a Stand".


14 Thoughts Shared:

Pia said...

having your husband and kids with you to call HOME is truly a blessing from God. i long for those. i know in God's perfect time.

LAURIE said...

Like Dorothy once said..."There's no place like home, There's no place like home!" Thanks for sharing your grateful heart with us today Melanie!

Rocks said...

I love your title :) east or west home is best because that is so true..

hope you enjoy your trips and may the Lord keep you safe always.

Karen said...

Bless you as you travel. Thank you for this uplifting post.

Joan Hall said...

Hi Melanie!

Wishing you an early happy anniversary. (There are many things I love about Texas also).

Happy Thankful Thursday,

Joan

Kristi said...

Melanie, that was beautifully said. May the Lord grant you safety as you are traveling.

Martianne said...

Wow! Such travels! I don't know how you manage it. I used to travel a lot for work, volunteering, etc. ore-marriage and kids - and lvoed it - but have often wodnered how I would do anything even remotely like it now. Bless you for managing it, but more so, for being able to aprpeciate all the different locations and the best one of all - home! I truly beleive God gives us each our "domestic church" as a place to find strength, encouragement and opportunities to praise, love and grow. Families are such a gift and grace! enjoy your time with your own.

Michele said...

I agree Home is Best! Sounds like you have a wonderful family, alot to be thankful for.

Denise said...

Home is definitely the best, sweet post.

Jerralea said...

You are truly blessed! Especially to have children with a positive attitude!

It's funny, it's fun to go visit new places but it doesn't take long at all to be ready to get back home. It's nice to be home!

Nana Jul said...

Happy Anniversary!
Every night as we pulled into the driveway, I feel a "wave" of relief, and I sigh and say...HOME....I truly agree, It's the Biggest blessing ever!
Julie

Nancie said...

Hi Melanie,

Happy Anniversary! Thank God for blessing you with such a wonderful husband and children. They such precious treasures and blessings from God. There's indeed no place like Home! Thanks for your visit and encouragement. Take care and have a blessed weekend, and Happy Mother's Day!

Warm regards,
Nancie

Ladynred said...

What an inspiring post. Yes I agree home is best where family is together. Happy Mother's day Happy Anniversary to you!
The Gift

Melissa said...

This is so true, and you've said it beautifully. Until my husband and I married and made a home, I didn't really understand that. Now I treasure our home ... not the building we live in as much as the place where we all are.