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Phillipians 1:3-6 "I thank God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
This year my heart is overflowing with gratitude. I would like to thank God, friends, and family for the impact you've made on my life. Happy Thanksgiving!!!
1.) My Father in Heaven
Growing up without a loving earthly father affected my life in many ways. However, upon asking Jesus into my heart, He filled the void deep inside. I pray I never take for granted the miracle of my life. God healing a broken hearted little girl. My heart is overflowing with joy. I have a Father in Heaven who loves me, provides for me, and cares for every need in my heart. Thank you God for saving me at the age of 15. I love you!!!
2.) My Godly Husband Robert Ridlon
Robert continues to be a wonderful husband. He is Godly, loving, kind, gentle, real, and my best friend in the World. God handpicked my soul mate! I appreciate his spiritual guidance in our family. I love our spontaneous laughter, stolen kisses in the elevator, and his commitment to God and family! I love you Robert William Ridlon III! You are my best friend always!
3.) My oldest son Robby
Robby is my number one son. He is smart, bright, and loves the Lord. As a baby and toddler he tested my patience a hundred times a day. Although through prayer and wise Godly mentors, we have raised him to be an amazing and well behaved young man. I am proud of my independent, family oriented, and smart 8 year old boy! Everyday I thank God for Robby. I know one day he will leave home, and head out into the big world! I am confident that he knows God, is strong, and determined to succeed. Robby I love you! You changed my world and I am thankful and proud of you everyday!
4.) My middle blessing Christopher Lucas
Christopher has a sweet spirit, yet at times sneaky, and oh so silly! I will never forget Lucas as a baby. He was a snuggler and extremely calm. He talks very little (probably due to his over talkative older brother). Robert and I have learned to listen to Christopher... Really listen (sometimes this requires informing Robby that it is Christopher's turn to talk ) He is smart, listens when we think he is dream world, extremely humorous and has a heart of gold. He hurts when others hurt. Never see's a person's outward appearance but connects with ALL people. I love you Lukey!!! You have taught mommy the importance of taking time to listen. Listen to God, to you, and other people. You teach me to see people through God's eyes. Your amazing Christopher! I love you, and cherish everyday I have as your mama!!!
5.) Baby Daniel
Daniel has the sweetest most sensitive spirit. He can find danger anywhere! We have endured many emergencies in his short 2 1/2 years of life. Daniel is sensitive and will cry if you look at him wrong! He loves living in Korea and loves Korean food. He say's hello too everyone. People love Daniel right away. My friends say "Wow, he is the perfect baby", and he is the perfect baby. Daniel makes me look like the perfect mother. Danny Panda you will always be my baby! I will cherish your cuddle behavior, how you love sitting on my lap, and the many bo bo's (kisses) you pounce on my cheeks daily! I love you Danny Panda! You have taught mommy to remain calm, and to cherish each day!
6.) Elizabeth and Bob Ridlon
My in-laws! I thank God for each one of you. God told you Robert and I were meant to be together. You were the first to know! I thank God for the many memories we've shared together. Liz you have a gentle heart and always look for ways to defuse conflict. We appreciate the little notes, cards and letters you send at just the right times. Pete you taught me what it means to have an earthly father. You've helped me with statistics, wrote me a poem, walked me down the isle, and I will forever be grateful. The two of you have provided much wisdom to Robert and I throughout our marriage. I love observing the relationship your developing with Robby, Christopher, and Daniel. They love you and miss you tremendously! Thank you for all you do!
7.) My Mother
She took care of me when I was sick, made me laugh, and has always loved me. There's something about a mother's touch you can never forget. I love you Mom!
You opened your home to me throughout my college years. You taught me the meaning of unconditional friendship. You taught me to think for myself, supported me through many painful years, opened your home to my family, love my husband and boys, and continue to reveal Christ's love to my family. The most important lesson you have taught me is that family isn't always blood related, but dependable and forgiving.
9.) The Schillinger Family
You accepted me into your home at the age of 16. Saw the best in me, when other's only saw a troubled teenage girl. Gave me a safe place to develop my relationship with Christ. Encouraged me to remain faithful to God. You have been faithful friends me and my family. Thank you for loving us!
My grandma was a safe place for me as a child. I loved spending the night with her. I give much praise to my grandma for the success in my life. She listened when I talked, made me feel special, provided for my needs, gave all she could give, but most importantly loved and supported me no matter the circumstance. I love you grandma!
11.) Mentors Throughout Life
Mrs. Clugsten my 7th and 8th grade music teacher. Supported my musical abilities and boosted my self-esteem. I don't see you anymore, but will never forget the impact you've made on my life. Jan Timmons my piano teacher throughout highschool. You prayed for me and invited me to church. Gave me free piano lessons for years. Made the first step to my accepting Christ as my savior. As a teenager I didn't realize the impact you made on my life, but as an adult I am grateful. Gretchen Wilson a dear sweet friend. You have supported my family for many years. Prayed with me, given me wisdom, taught me to rely on God. I pray as I grow in age and wisdom I will impact souls for Christ in the same manner as you. You are my inspiration!
12.) The Impact of the Church
The first church I attended was Whitelaw Avenue Baptist Church. God used this church to support me through my hardest years. Teaching me what it meant to be a Christian and to live for God. Calvary Baptist my church during college. This church continued to strengthen my faith and support me! Emmanuel Baptist Church our first church home after saying "I do". Naperville Baptist Church where we attended while living in the Chicago area. Evangelical Community Church where we attended during our 5 years of grad school. The Godly mentors I met at ECC will forever remain close to my heart. ECC played a huge role on my spiritual growth. I met and maintained many life long and Godly friendships while at ECC. My faith grew tremendously during the 5 years we attended. Seoul Union our church in Korea. Encouraged me to stand up for what I believe. Taught me what it means to maintain a missionary lifestyle. First Baptist Church of Weymouth was a short 8 month stent in our live's. The impact on our faith was forever life altering. Lovingly convicting of sin, a heart for reaching the lost, not afraid to state the truth, and so humble. The friends I made in a short time, I will never forget.
13.) My Friends
Friends make life more enjoyable. I have been blessed with countless friendships throughout my life. Some short-lived, many life-long, and all equally important to my growth as a Christian. There is no way I can name the many friends God has blessed me with. If your reading this you'll know who you are. Thank you to all my Godly friends. Continually leading me to the cross!!!
14.) Mrs. Che
Mrs. Che is our part time nanny. While living in Korea she has become family. She is reliable, hardworking, and loving. She loves our family and takes good care of us. I thank God for leading us to Mrs. Che. She helps us in times of emergency. Her love for God is evident in all she comes in contact with. Thank you Mrs. Che!
15.) Our Home
We have never been without a roof over our heads and food in our belly's. God is good!!!
I realize this is quite and extensive list. This year my heart is overflowing with gratitude. I felt the need to thank God, friends, and family for the impact you've made on my life. Happy Thanksgiving!!!
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