Monday, July 20, 2009

What Am I Learning?

I was asked in a devotional I read today to step back and ask myself what I've learned over these past 4 years since Todd died. I've learned a lot, but here are a few that stand out tonight:

I've learned to kill spiders all by myself.
I've learned where to put the oil into the van and what kind of oil to buy.
I've learned to fill in that empty space at the table with one of the children, or with a guest.
I've learned it's ok to cry in public (even though I don't like to).
I've learned how to call and/or talk to strangers on the phone over business matters.
I've learned I put way too much trust in Todd for everything.
I've learned that life continues on for others "normally" and that mine never will.
I've learned how to wash deer poop off our dog all by myself.
I've learned how to answer Toby when she asks when Daddy is coming back.
I've learned there are some friends who stick with you no matter what, others who still act like they don't know what to say.
I've learned that God answers prayers according to His PERFECT WILL, and not my desires, and according to what's best for me...which may mean He answers the same prayers for others in a different way.
I've learned God is totally trustworthy, and that with His strength and guidance, I can get through this!

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Best Buddies??


We had fun with Chauncey and Rocky with yesterday's beautiful weather. We were outside a lot and I think everyone had a good time...

Monday, July 13, 2009

Introducing: Chauncey!


OK. We have 3 weeks to decide. Right now I don't know how this is going to turn out. Rocky is very jealous. I know it's the first night, but it's been a LONG night! Chauncey is a big boy, and he makes me nervous, but we're praying for God's clear leading. Another adventure awaits us...

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Another Dog?


Well, we were officially chosen to adopt another dog from Lab Rescue. We got Rocky from this organization and have been very happy with our new addition over the years. The kids and I thought it would be nice to get another dog for Rocky to have a playmate. We are supposed to be introduced tomorrow night to Chauncey, a chocolate lab, 1.5 years old, who has been in a "foster home" and has had all his shots, is house broken, and looks adorable.

Todd and I had prayed a lot before getting Rocky. We wanted to get a dog for Winter, who had a very difficult first year of life. When she was almost two, we got Rocky, and he immediately became a lovable part of our family. Rocky has been loyal and protective over the years. I will never forget how he laid by Todd's bed when he was so sick, and followed him everywhere. He stayed very close to him...all the way to the end. He still looks for Todd at times.

So, what about a new dog? Two dogs? There's a part of us that is so excited to have something new. We seem to be in such a rut. There's another part that says, "What are you doing??" The practical side says this is INSANE. The adventurous side says this is going to be GREAT!

....praying for God's leading yet again. I wonder what Todd thinks of this?

Saturday, July 4, 2009

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

I'm sure this holiday holds many special memories for all of us. Perhaps it was picnics in the park with your family, going to fireworks at night, heading down to the beach....whatever it is, this summer holiday holds special memories. On this day, as we remember our freedoms and especially those who have fought so hard to keep them, let us also remember to thank God for it all.

Today I'm thanking Him for our nation's freedom and great heritage,
thanking Him for all of our service men and women who sacrificed all for us,
thanking Him for the Armed Forces fighting today for our freedom, and
thanking Him for all the precious, precious memories this Independence Day holds for all of us.

Wishing everyone a very Happy Fourth of July!