Month: March 2023

We celebrated seventeen years of getting to know one of our kids yesterday! This child is quite unique and stands out without even meaning too. She works hard, always has, but takes time for whoever is in front of her. She has eyes to see the one who needs a friend and draws them in. Her determination to learn is admirable, but I can hardly wait until she is able to focus more on what interests her most. She is strong, but has weaknesses that are not often seen. To participate in this child’s story is a privilege.

Happy Birthday Anna Kate! I love you.

Turning into our neighborhood, late last night after a long road trip, my first thought was how much I love home. Our outside lights were shining a warm welcome, as we all piled out of the van and quickly fell into our own beds. Home at last.

Our home is a place, but it is also has an atmosphere. There is freedom within these walls to belong, to learn, to ask questions, to make mistakes, to try again, to forgive, to be imperfect, to be known, to be seen, to laugh, to cry and sometimes yell. I am often tempted to put demands on those within to measure up to an unobtainable standard, but realize it comes from my own insecurities and fears. I am learning to be approachable, honest and welcoming and it impacts our family. One of the many things I wished I would have learned earlier, but the God I know lets me start again each day.

We studied the subject of suffering in Bible study today, each one of us is not left out of this life experience. To measure, compare or put expectation on suffering seems like an added burden on already slumped shoulders. Then I walked outside and saw two sweet friends, arm in arm walking slow to the car. And right there in the parking lot I saw a beautiful picture of Jesus with us on this journey marked with times of suffering. May we be ones that model the same side by side.

One of the kids and I were talking about going through a time of pressing. This one said they didn’t think they had a choice and I agreed. Going through a time like this is never easy and I am finding it especially difficult when you are watching one of your children. However, this I know, they will never be the same and will take on more of their Creators likeness. They will also have more to extend to others, for there is no oil without a pressing.