I Am Blessed

It is in my nature to complain and look at what is difficult and what I do not have. I have to make a conscience effort to look at the bright side of things. I like to sleep in the mornings and LOVE my bed with the perfect feather pillows and the last hour of blissful sleep. When I am disciplined enough to get up and get a move on the day I am rewarded with this: God does amazing handiwork and there is nothing like a sunrise to brighten your crisp fall morning. I confess I did not take this photo. Sean took it while I was still cozy and warm in bed. But, when I do get up I love the calm, quiet, before the storm.

This may not look like much but I tell you it is like gold. I was feeling Yucky this week and Syndi sent over this inconspicuous jar of THE BEST TEA IN THE WORLD. Jess introduced us to the drink called London Fog (Savannah refers to it as Lynden Fog) made of Creme de la Earle Grey Tea, vanilla syrup, water and Cream. It is Delicious and I am addicted! I even opted for this the other morning instead of Coffee (gasp!). Unfortunately the tea itself is worth it's weight in gold! That is why I am carefully coveting and hoarding these precious tea bags! Thank you so much for bringing some royalty into my day in a week that feels like I am a commoner.
I was focusing on the fact that Sean is gone many long hours for work every day and he is often not home until late because of other activities. I decided that was the wrong attitude and was not honoring to God. When I put it in perspective I am thankful that my husband has a good job, he is able and willing to take Aaron to cub scouts, and it is his hearts desire to study the Word of God with other Godly men, in addition to fulfilling some of his desires and making himself a better man. Isn't that a better way of looking at it?

I was grumbling that I had to tuck the children in after a long day (with a headache to boot!)Then I realized that I was grateful that my children still want me to tuck them in and anticipate the time we have together to discuss the day and pray together. They are not tired of listening to me or being with me. I have so much to be thankful for.

Jess, her children and her good friend Jamie came over for lunch today. I love having friends over to share a meal and especially enjoy the relaxed and comfortable way we can visit, encourage each other and laugh when we are together. Even in the midst of parenting 10 children at home, 4 under the age of 3.
I often wish that Taylor had another girl her age that lived closer so they could play together. Then I realize how much I like having Taylor around and how willingly and joyfully she helps me. I know that would be lost if we had negative influence around or if she was always gone with someone else. I am happy we have the time we do and I need to continue to trust God that His ways are the best and that He has a plan.

It is such a bummer when you are licking the spoon and it pokes you in the eye!

Jess walked in the kitchen to find Justice happily helping himself to the sour cream spoon that was left on the counter with Honor pleading for a lick as well. She immediately went to clean it up when I said, "wait! I need a picture." To which she replied,"Oh Yeah, you need to blog it right?"

I guess we all know what is blog-worthy.

Look at this beautiful young woman who tremendously blessed my family by giving my handsome young men great hair cuts! Erik cried that he did not want to get his hair cut and that only Papa could cut his hair right (we all know I am not qualified). He complained that even the barber does a bad job. After a conversation with me he decided it was in his best interest to let Jamie cut his hair, and when she was done he said that he liked it! That is high praise and a compliment to be cherished coming from Erik.

Ian just keeps asking when Ms Jamie can come back! He really likes having her around. Really who wouldn't? She has such a great smile and sees what needs to be done and does it! She is a wonderful role model for my girls and talented too! I have to say Thank you to Jess for sharing her with us!