Summer Blessings

As this brand new week begins, my heart is feeling so full. On this Monday morning, I'm particularly thankful for...

* my husband who loves me so unconditionally, listens to (and hears) my heart, and consistently reminds me that God is good. He truly cherishes and protects me...there's no greater feeling.

* our boys who are ever teaching me more about myself and my God. They regularly make me laugh and help me to embrace the everyday joys of life. They also remind me of my utter dependency on God. Let's face it...raising children is tough. Each day is new with different challenges, uncharted territory, and unfamiliar scenarios. I'm so thankful for each of our boys' precious lives and the way they keep me acknowledging my great need for God.

* the unexpected, joyful return of our dear friends to our area. No one knows how long (or short?) they will be here, but we embrace each of these days, knowing that they are gifts from our all-wise, loving God. Oh, that we'd wisely invest and enjoy these days of togetherness!

* parents (all 4 of them) who willingly stepped right in and selflessly cared for our boys while we were in N.O. In addition to lots of fun games and activities throughout the days, they chauffeured them to countless musical rehearsals/performances and baseball practices/games.

* a new youth pastorate for my brother and his beautiful family. Yes, even though it took them far away, I truly am thankful for God's amazing grace and provision in their lives. We love and miss you guys ~

* a mom and an aunt with the hearts of servants! My back started bothering me while we were in New Orleans, and it grew increasingly worse once we returned home. After walking around like Quasimoto and experiencing significant pain for over a week, my mom and aunt came armed with their back massagers on the 4th of July, declaring it a Spa Night! They graciously and lovingly massaged my back (even my feet!), providing much comfort and relief.

* my brother-in-law's health and return to work. He is cancer-free!

* the sweet, ordinary moments when we hang out with "our" kids, whether it be while polyurethaning window frames, sipping coffee and sharing stories 'round a table, or cheering them on at their Ultimate Frisbee game. Words can't express the joy and thankfulness that wells up inside us as they lead our church family in worship. What an overwhelming blessing it is to love them and be loved by them!

* friends both near and far who God has used in our spiritual growth; friends who encourage us simply by their love for their families and their God.

* central air and iced cafe au laits!

* a working refrigerator that keeps food cold!

* 3 pots of fresh basil growing on my porch

* the opportunity to dig into God's Word with my sisterchicks; to share our insights, our struggles, and our victories; to bow our hearts together in prayer, and to know that these same sisters are praying for me regularly during the in-between times.

* the refreshment of God's Word..."Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8