FOOD

Why is it that I spend most meals encouraging my kids to eat and encouraging myself to do the opposite?

I've often thought what a blessing it is to a person to be disciplined and trained as a child instead trying to discipline one's self when older. Now I know perfection will never be obtained as a child or an adult, our sinful nature just won't allow it here on earth. But progress can be made through the grace of God. And I continually remind myself that I not only have to be diligent with my sin, but my chidren's sin as well. Oh, this is so hard, but what a blessing it is to my chidren if they start learning now to put other's interest before thier own or to not obey every fleshly desire. How thankful I am for the Lord's mercy and grace which makes sanctification not only possible but not such a burden.

Music Shop

Things I'm glad not to own

Elias had a fun field trip today at a music shop. The owner is a man who loves music and uses it to serve the Lord. He was very gracious in letting the kids play all the instruments. I'm very glad that these instruments do not reside in my home as my kids don't need help from musical instruments to make alot of noise. Elias complained a few times that it was too loud at the music shop(notice the hands over the ears in the picture with the trombone). Why is it that kids never complain about how loud something is when they are the ones making the noise?

Elias was a little leery to play the big base violin saying he was scared. I think he was afraid it would fall on him, but once he tried he loved the deep sound it made.

Smile

My Cookie Cutter Kids

These are three favorites from the past of all the kids at about the same age. It's smiles like this that do make mothering a little easier. I love my smiley crew. And I know that although they look like they are all from the same pattern that are uniquely and wonderfully created by a most gracious and loving God.

Dad's Home!

God has been very gracious to us during this seminary journey and Alex's job has been a part of that. While it seemed each semester varied in it's hours and locations, Alex's vendor job supplied great flexibility over the last 5 years. However, God has decided not to meet our needs though that job anymore and we are eagerly awaiting to see what He has in store. We know that God is faithful, good and sovereign and will continue to meet all our needs. While we would prefer that Alex had a job we are greatly enjoying having him home. I wish we could say we are trusting in God alone during this time, but when there is a savings account to fall back on I wonder how much of it is trust in the Provider rather than the provision.

BEFORE and AFTER