looking back. . .

14 years ago today, my brother- and sister-in-law were married. . .
12 years ago today, my husband was ordained into the holy ministry. . .
10 years ago today, my first daughter was a sweet 3 month old baby. . .

Oh how the years go by - in just a few short years, so much has happened. If I had known 14 years ago when we got married what life would hold for us, I don't think I could have comprehended it all. It would have sounded scary and wonderful all at the same time. Thank goodness God knows to give us life incrementally, bit by bit, until our lives are so full of wonder, happiness and joy. Even through the tough times, God is constantly with us, guiding us, and turning all things into good.

Thank you, God, for giving me this life - so full of joy, chaos and love.

Tis the season

Tis the season for open houses, weddings and end-of-the-year parties. Some years are heavier than others, and this year is quite full. We are attending 5 weddings, 7-8 graduation open houses, and 1-2 general parties. This makes for very little time for doing much else, especially blogging. The kids are also attending camps, having sleepovers, grumbling about chores. . .the summer seems overbooked before it has really started!

I will attempt to remain in my regular blogging rhythm of about 2-3 times a week, but please forgive me if I slip! My dear sweet baby girl is still as demanding as ever, also making it difficult to do anything that requires two hands (and a well-rested body and brain). I'm trying to remember that this too shall pass, and I know I will miss these crazy, busy days!

Heartfelt prayers

A few weeks ago, my husband and I were talking with a parishioner in his backyard. As the kids were playing on his playground equipment, this man called each one by name.

Each one.

Now, this is a man that I have known our entire 12 years here, but the children don't know him at all, and I don't often get a chance to speak to him or his wife, since we often attend different services.

I was so surprised that he knew their names, and I told him so. His answer moved me to tears.

"I pray for each of your children", he said.

It's hard to explain how that made me feel. My husband is this man's pastor, and he loves my husband and our family in such a way that he lifts all of us up in prayer. It was a wonderful gift and blessing given to me that day.