This is Thanksgiving week and I’m very thankful for the life and friends and family God has given me. I am most thankful for Jesus and the salvation and eternal life he gives. And then there are those little surprises that come along in life.

I have been working for Con’ Olio Oils and Vinegars for 3 years now. It is a part-time, stress-free job and a lot of fun. One of my favorite things about the job is that I get to teach the Olive Oil 101 Class at each of our three locations. And this week, our owner asked me to do a TV spot for the store, including demonstrating a recipe–a simple Caprese salad, but still–ME?! demonstrating a recipe?!?! I was actually dreading it a bit because I felt a bit out of my comfort zone (which is crazy–I love to speak and teach–so why was I dreading this?!?!) Yet my fabulous co-worker Margo brought all the great display items and prepped the food. I brought some of my wedding china to use and had practiced putting a Caprese salad together at home. Then, the actual live spot went by so quickly. Just 4 minutes! What I had initially dreaded turned out to be surprisingly easy and fun! The Fox7Austin Good Day news team was very friendly and made me feel so at ease. Here’s the link, if you’re so inclined to want to watch.

http://www.fox7austin.com/good-day/cooking-with-fox-7-con-olio-oils-vinegars#/

The big joys we can find in brief moments or experiences are a blessing indeed. They help me get through the days that seem impossible. Memories are important and can bring great healing and hope. I love the verses in Ephesians 3:20-21.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (NIV)

We used these verses on our wedding invitation 10 years ago. They have been a theme of my life on many occasions. And they were also the theme of my friend Susan’s big day last week when she launched her book, A Wild and Wonderful Life: Say Yes to Your Immeasurably More Jesus Story. It was an absolute delight to be at her launch party where more than 100 friends came to celebrate Susan and her book. And Susan is always the first to remind folks that it’s all because of Jesus. Jesus is the author of each and every wild and wonderful life when we allow him full control.

Susan would challenge you with the question: “What do you need to say yes to Jesus about today?”

I know I need to say yes to some very difficult challenges in my life right now and I need to trust that Jesus is in full control. We can support each other and know that Jesus is right here with us.

Happy Thanksgiving, y’all!