With only 16 more days left in the States, our family is making final preparations for our departure. One room at a time, we are going through the mission home that we have been staying in. With every item, we ask ourselves many questions. For example, “Are we taking this to the Philippines?”, “If we aren’t taking it, are we putting it into storage?”, and “If not into storage, then what do we do with it?” So far, we have gone through Stephen’s office, our bedroom, the schoolroom, the laundry room, and even the garage. We just have a few more rooms left. It is amazing how much “stuff” we can collect in 12 months! On the other hand, each item comes with a face or a memory. What do we mean? As we put a book into our suitcase, we think of the pastor who gave it to Stephen. As we pack a hat, we think of our time at Yellowstone. As we debate about a toy, we think of Grandma and Grandpa who gave it to one of our children. Each item sorted is a reminder of all we have for which to be thankful. Of course, you don’t have to pack to be thankful. As you read this, what do you see around you that you can thank God for? Your Bible? Your children? “In every thing give thanks,” 1 Thessalonians 5:18.