Thankful for our History!

Since we have been here in Canada, it seems that our family has been more and more interested in history.  We had the privilege of visiting Quebec city and learning about the wars between the French the British, and the American colonials over the land in the entire 'New England' area.  This year in school we are learning about Ancient Egypt, and learning about the way people lived in Biblical times. I have to say, history was never my favorite subject in school, but surprisingly, I am finding it very fascinating.  Rather than just learning the facts, the kids get to read all kinds of fiction and non fiction books related to the topic.  I would even say that history has become my kids' favorite subject.
It seems to also be a favorite topic of James' dad.  Recently he has been doing genealogy studies of our family, and has been sharing some of the information with me about my heritage.  One particular person mentioned is someone that I have heard my dad talk about.  It was my his very first ancestor that moved to North America.  Mark Hardin was a French Huguenot who was fleeing France due to severe  religious persecution from the French government.

Saint Bartholomew's Day Massacre in France 1572

He came first to Canada but eventually moved further south into what is now the U.S. because of the harsh Canadian winters.  After hearing the story of the pilgrims yet again this Thanksgiving, my mind can't help but wonder what life was like then.  Imagine being hunted down in your home country because you are unwilling to conform to the "religion" of the state, fleeing for your life across the Atlantic ocean (a life threatening event in itself) only to face uncertain dangers once you arrive in the 'new world', having a hope that you will find the happiness you long for, and praying for the grace to endure long enough to enjoy it.  Our country may be less than perfect, but in light of different situations around the world and in our past, I am more than thankful for the freedoms we have in the United States and the truth that they were built on.

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness" 

Hope your Thanksgiving day was full of Life, Liberty and Happiness!  

Enjoying Turkey yet again!

Noa enjoying Turkey!

Enjoying a Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

Enjoying Pie!