Wedding Week

Here we are the final week before the wedding. The plans have been set in motion with last minute details left to take care of. Britni has done a good job of dreaming and planning and organizing and budgeting. She will be a beautiful bride and my prayers for them are to put God and each other first in their lives. I seem to be pretty calm but know there will be stressful moments during the week. I have a lot of things that need to be done before we take off, with the store and home. I would definitely feel better if I was more prepared for the holidays at the store. I keep trying to tell myself to do what I can and then not stress over what doesn't get done.
I am looking forward to spending a few days with the girls before everyone else starts showing up.
Kevin has off until the 10th so hopefully he will be able to get lots done too. We will try and get stuff done here then head to Chicago on Wednesday. Try and finish up some last minute seating arrangements, gift bags and misc. Then Thur and Fri run errands, pick up Tuxes, pick up Malori from the airport get settled into the hotel. Fri morning the flowers are suppose to show up and then Cheri our florist and her crew. I think it will be really pretty. It is kind of funny that Cheri did the flowers for our wedding. She does a really good job. I'll post some pictures after the wedding.

Sister Weekend

My sister, Becky, and sister in law, Kathy, and I decided that we would celebrate our birthdays with a trip. It is a new tradition we are starting that each year we go somewhere. We started out this year with a 2 day trip to Nashville, Indiana. Thanks to Dave's hotel points we got to stay in a very new and modern Hilton. It was really nice. We did a little shopping at the outlet mall the first evening and out to dinner. The next day we spent in Nashville.

Here are a few pictures of a time. We also decide to start a journal of what we did and the stuff going on in our lives. Then each year add to it. We also want to try to do something each trip we have never done before. This year we did one of those old fashion photos and dressed up as salon girls. We had a lot of laughs doing it.

Next year we would like to take a cruise but we'll see.
I have the best sisters!

Things in July

Summer is seeming to fly by. We have had some hurts this summer that has kind of left us all feeling down. There are several things weighing me down of which I have no control of. It is hard to see the direction God is taking me. I know when life takes an unexpected turn it is hard to get a fresh vision and get excited about it.

The store is struggling big time. I would love to be able to do some new stuff
but can't. Still unsure of where to go from here. Waiting it out for now but not sure if I will be able to hang in there.

Britni's wedding is in November. She has pretty much everything organized. So we're not doing to much right now.

Kevin and Cortni took off work this week to go boating. I didn't have anyone to work (or couldn't really pay anyone) so I'm stuck here. I am closing the store Saturday to go to a wedding and then have 4 days off. Maybe I can get refreshed and excited about something.
The next few months will be full of changes. Hopefully we can all adjust and everything will go smoothly.
Didn't mean to be Debbie Downer but that's me for now.

Birthday Celebration!

 

The end of May we went to Chicago to celebrate Malori's birthday, and Sebastians which was a few weeks ago and Britni's which is in a few weeks. We tried to surprise everyone but I'm pretty sure they all figured it out. Kevin took Sebastian to a Cubs game and I was taking the girls to see Mary Poppins.
Saturday there was a street fair on Division, which we like to shop, and Cortni had already planned to go to a Cubs game with 3 girls from work. We were all getting ready to take off and Kevin, who hates to shop, said he would rather go to the game then shop. So Cortni called and somehow was able to get him a ticket.
So Malori, Britni and I took off and walked to Division street. We had a blast and ate some great food. We got to try different things because of all the vendors set up. Malori also got some shirts. They each got some money for clothes for their birthday too. Cortni and Kevin also walked because they had extra time. They were suppose to catch the bus but ended up walking almost the whole way.
That evening Malori, Cortni, Kevin and myself grilled out. Britni and Sebastian had something else to go to.
Then Sunday we tried to drive down to the Lincoln Park Zoo. But we drove around for an hour and couldn't find parking. So we ended up on Damen and did some shopping and got some coffee and ice cream.
Then Sunday evening everyone got ready and the guys went to the Cubs game and the girls headed to see Mary Poppins. It was fabulous!! We were sing right along. One of the best scenes was the chimney sweeps and when he walked up the wall and the ceiling. And of course Mary Poppins flying.
If you get a chance go see it!
It was a great weekend and coming off of Malori's graduation enjoyed some fun and relaxation!

Congrats Malori!!

Our baby is officially out of high school. I still can't figure out where the last 12 years have gone. I still remember the first day of kindergarten, walking down the drive sporting a Pocahontas backpack, last day of school driving away in her red mustang.
She made a senior video and Friday night wanted us to watch it. It was full of great memories. I don't think we realize all those little things we do are wonderful memories to cherish.
We are very proud of all of her accomplishments and even more the type of person is she. We are privileged to be her parents.

Busy Week

It has been a very busy few weeks and week will be no different. Malori's graduation is on Saturday, then her open house, Bailie's is on Sunday and her open house is Monday. We have been cleaning up the yard, planting flowers, cleaning windows and the house is still a mess. I only have a few days left to get the house cleaned, food figured out and bought and cooked. Besides work, Malori's track sectionals, school groups coming to the store and a author book signing at the Library on Thursday night.

After church I had a birthday party at the store and now finally home and should be doing something but I am so exhausted I can't get up. Thinking about just going to bed but guilt is keeping me from it.

Well we'll see how the week unfolds as we prepare to watch out youngest daughter graduate and move on to the next stage of her life.

Mothers Day

Today is a day to honor our mothers. Mothers come in different shapes and sizes. But each one of us has a unique mother. It is something we will always have whether they are still here or in heaven.
I am fortunate to still have my mother. She is an amazing woman. She has always been there for me and is always encouraging me. Even though I am an adult, she is still teaching me things. In my eyes she has been a super woman. Doing everything well. Loving her family and God above her own needs. She sacrificed for us, worked full time jobs, made holidays above expectations. Not just in materials things but the memories and the traditions she has taught us to embrace and cherish. Even my children who are growing into adults still cherish those traditions. In may ways I struggle to even get close to accomplishing the things she has done. But she has encouraged me to be myself and strive to keep my family close. Even if things do not seem ideal but it is what we do, we are still creating memories. For instance, Kevin has had to work a lot of holidays including Christmas day. I get frustrated just thinking about how that "it's not fair". But we started getting up at 3am so the kids could get up on Christmas morning and open presents. They actually get excited about that. No it isn't what I really want Christmas morning to be like but it is OUR Christmas morning, creating memories for our family.

This is just one example of the things my mother has taught me. If I can be half the Godly mother and wife she is I will be proud.
I love you mom and glad your will always be in my life.

Telling on myself

It has been 2 weeks since I had my wisdom teeth out and things are definately feeling better. Although I still have a weird taste in my mouth and periodic find food I haven't ate for awhile. My teeth still are sensitive due to the fact (according to the dr) some nerves are still exposed.
The whole experience needless to say wasn't good. I was a little nervous before but once I got in the room and got the IV I don't remember much until I got home. I don't remember getting out of the clinic and into the car at all. Kind of weird to know a period of time is missing. Once home took meds and slept on the couch. Kevin left for work around 4, Malori came home around 5, I continued to sleep. Mal woke me up to tell me she was going into Danville with a friend. (apparently watch mom sleep isn't that fun on a Friday night when your 18) So shortly after she left I started to get throwup. I continued to throwup all night. She called and I told her I was sick and she came home. In the process of throwing up the toilet seat came down and hit me on the head. I got a knot and a bruise from it. I ended up with a fever and throwup all night. So I decide it was the pain meds that made me sick.

The next few days at least went better. I still had a lot of pain but stomach was much better.
I am glad I have no more wisdom teeth because I would never do that again!!
My family did get enjoyment over the knot and toilet seat. I still hear about it.
Stuff like this always happens to me. (and Britni)

Quote for the day!

"How did you get so old without know'n anything?"

Art Award

This weekend Malori was recognized at the SWOPE ART MUSEUM for her photography "Waiting on Time". It is an honor to be selected for the exhibit. Only 65 are chosen out of 345.

We made a quick trip down to Terre Haute to see it. (I am still not feeling the best from getting my teeth pulled) Her art teacher, Mr. Wagoner, met us there. He was very proud of her. He even got choked up. Mr Wagoner has had all 3 of my girls in his art class. He is a wonderful teacher, mentor, and encourager. He puts in a lot of work for the school and we are lucky to have such a gifted art teacher. He puts the kids work in contest, and art shows to give them exposure. He is a potter at Billy Creek Village and his pottery is well known. In these days many schools are dropping art programs because of funding, I am glad our school sees the importance of this program.

So tomorrow is the day I get my wisdom teeth out. I have put it off since January. Why? I have no idea. It has been hurting, makes my ear hurt even but I am a wimp. So I am not suppose to eat or drink anything after midnight. So what do I do, scan the kitchen for any food I won't be able to eat for about a week, crunchy things, things I probably wouldn't eat anyway. Do I think I'm going to starve in a day?
Oh well tomorrow I'll be all drugged up so I'll use that as an excuse.

Wish me well!

PS Malori and Kevin better take care of me instead of just dumping me on the coach.

Easter

It seems by accident when the kids were little we started making traditions that we still carry out. Sometime you just start doing something, it works and is enjoyable, and then you blink and it is 25 years later.
Our typical Easter Sunday consists of
going to church as a family (many time sporting new duds)
taking a family picture at church
going to mom's for dinner
a mega egg hunt (including special eggs with special prizes)
hanging out and talking, playing games

So this year we did exactly the same thing. We do now have more than 6 kids. We have added 1 husband, 1 fiance, 2 boyfriends, 1 baby, 1 mother (Kevin's mom), 2 friends and a little girl. We took pictures at the church and had dinner at moms. Mom has done a fun egg hunt for the kids and each year the threat is it's the last, but some how she still does it. This year 340 eggs. Only 326 recovered. loser get cash, and then there is always candy, change, secret numbers, and duties required. (Dave singing I'm a Little Teapot) Somehow everyone goes home with stuff. A lot of the items aren't much but the kids get a kick out of it. It is also VERY competitive. When Carter was trying to state a rule, Malori informed him he couldn't make the rules until he was officially in the family. Drew even had to give stuff to Elias!
They even have 7 wooden eggs that have been in the family since the begin of egg hunts. No one dares to lose them. Plus they are always worth something great!
We sat around and caught up on every ones life, enjoyed passing the new baby around, and teasing the new fiance.
I love my family and these times even though they seem like a lot of work getting ready are so precious. I wouldn't trade it for anything.
The older kids finally off to college, and their homes out of town. I wish they could stay longer.

A place to fit into

I have been struggling with finding a place I fill that I fit into for a Sunday School class. Every since Kevin has stopped going to church I seem to be miss placed. I enjoyed going to a "couple class" with him but now find I don't seem to fit in with the other classes. I had been going to a younger couples class with a friend. The teachers are great it's a fun, interactive and down to earth class but everyone in there is young married, or young kids. There is only one or 2 who have a teenager but still younger kids. It just doesn't seem like the place I am in life. My youngest is heading to college. Just a different time and place in my life. Today I went to an older class. I was then the youngest in the class. Many of the people in the class I have know for years but as I sat there, alone, I looked around the room and thought, I don't fit in here either. Frankly, I am tired of being half a couple. I could tell everyone in the class enjoyed being there, and had a bond with each other. Sharing their lives with each other and praying for each other. I just feel like I am not like any of them. I know everyone has their own struggles, sickness, family situations. I know I belong in church and a Sunday School class but just feel like I am looking in not being there. Sort of like a dream your not in the picture just looking in on it.
After Sunday school Mal and I went downstairs to talk to my sister for a minute. They have been working hard doing some changes and it looks great. Some of the adult teachers and workers were standing in the new "teachers room" kitchen. It was really nice. They were all laughing and excited about what was going on. I though this is what I want. To be in a place I have a vision and excitement for. I was excited for them and long to join with them but knew I didn't belong their too. You can not live off of others joy in Christ. I have to find my own.
What does this mean? I have no idea. I have struggled with going to a different church, but my family and Kevin's family all are still at there and some I wouldn't see at all if I didn't go. I also stay for Malori. I keep thinking maybe when she goes to college.
I think the real problem isn't others its me. I long for God to be real to me at this moment and place in my life. Not just was, or did but is and doing.

Lord Move or Move Me

The other day I heard this song on the radio which I haven't heard for several years. I almost had to pull the car over because of the tears. Several years ago at a very low time in my life I took a trip by myself. At that time I was searching for some answers and made a list of things I needed to turn over to God. After walking on the beach and praying over each item, the Lord urged me to then throw away the list because I couldn't hang on to those things anymore. I walked out in the water and throw the list into the water and watched the waves wash away the piece of paper. Then I looked down and a sea shell was sitting on top of my foot. The Lord took my hurts and left me with His promise. This song came to my mind and meant a lot to me.
Here is the words to the chorus:
Lord move in the way, that I've never seen before
Cause there's a mountain in the way and a lock on the door
I'm drifting away, waves are crashing on the shore
So Lord move (move), or move me.

This is just a very short version of all that happen but it is the highlight. I will never forget what God did for me that day and I keep the shell on my window sill in the kitchen so I am reminded daily.

Wisdom Teeth

At Malori and my last dentist appointment it was decided we both need to get our wisdom teeth out. Malori's bottom ones are coming in sideways and before it messes up all the brace work we had done they need to come out. I have one top tooth that is braking apart. In fact when I chew parts of the tooth fall out. The other top one is falling down. Which to me doesn't seem like a problem but about 20 plus years ago I had the one under pulled and apparently since the top one doesn't have anything to hold it up it is pull down and can pull down the jaw bone. Then the bottom tooth that is perfectly fine has to come out because now if you pull the top one you don't have anything keeping it down. Why didn't they know all of this 20 years ago when I had the first one pulled?
So today was the day Malori had hers pulled. Kevin took her and she did OK but they had a hard time getting one of the bottom ones out. They had to cut out part of the root. The top 2 hadn't even broke through yet so she is all stitched up. One side of her face is pretty swollen. The funny thing is they gave her pain meds which she has been taking every 4 hours, but it isn't making her sleepy. Really weird. They knocked her out and she came out of it pretty alert and hasn't sleep but about 2 or 3 hours all day. If I take pain med I usually sleep all day.
I wanted to take her picture to put on here but she refused to let me. Whats up with that? I did manage to get her to eat some chicken broth. I sure hope mine goes better in a couple of weeks!
You wouldn't believe how expensive it was to get hers out. $3700. Thank goodness for at least some insurance! Mine won't be but about half of that. I am definitely in the wrong business. Maybe we should have done what they did in the old days, go to the barber! I happen to know one.

The Love Boat

Where has this month gone? It has been a crazy month so far. We knew Malori would be going on a cruise in March every since October. We decide we wanted to go but would book our own tickets and not go with the school. We weren't sure who all could go and so we delayed getting tickets. Finally the first part of March we booked our tickets just a week and a half before we were to leave. We got a confirmation, and emails the next day. Then we get a phone call stating we lost our tickets. They didn't come out an totally admit the problem but they over booked it. So in one week we were to be on a boat that we took vacation time for and to watch our daughter preform on a ship, but we didn't have tickets. We did get our names on a waiting list and called 3 to 4 times every day to check. We were told if we showed up at the dock and someone didn't show up we could get their room. So we decided to take a chance.

Wednesday Kevin, Cortni, and I took off for New Orleans. We arrived at the port around 11 and checked in. They put our names on the top of the list and told us to come back at 3. Everyone is suppose to be checked in by 2:30 and the ship was scheduled to leave at 4. We walked around the French Quarters for awhile and then headed back to the port.

It was about 10 till 3 when we checked in again. We were told to wait and they would see if they could find a room. At about 3:45 we were told to head up to check in, they weren't sure yet but just in case wanted us to be ready. We left our suitcases by the front and went through security and to the registration. The workers were all leaving (because everyone else was on the boat) but the manager had to call and finally found us a room on a sold out ship.

We were trying to check in but then they realized our luggage wasn't going to make it so Kevin and Cortni took off back out of the terminal to get it. Then back through the security carrying all of our luggage while I continued to get us book. We then ran through the tunnel and made it on the ship about 4:10.

to be continued . . . . ..

watchin the boat we really want to be on!

You Know He Loves You When...

I worked all last week and Kevin had off Thur, Fri, and Saturday. So when I came home Saturday afternoon, he had cleaned the first floor. It looked and smell nice. He also made supper. (I did help and I also clean up, the lest I could do) Thanks babe!!

RedNeck Snuggie

If anyone knows my family you know we are all about joking around. My sister and brother in law start a good one with their son Drew. For Valentines Day they bought him a snuggie because he is always making fun of it. Before they sent it to him at college they posed in it and made a valentine e-card. So when he got it in the mail he decided to do some posing too. It is so funny! So Kevin and Malori and I are working on coming up with a redneck version. I will post pictures as soon as we have them. It's going to be great!

My Baby is Getting Married!

I haven't got around to posting this but last Thursday Britni and Sebastian got engaged. We had meet with Sebastian several weeks ago and he told us he would propose around Valentine's day. When Britni told us they were going out to a very romantic restaurant we kind of figured that would be the day. We waited all day and finally at 11pm she called to tell us. We are very happy for them both and I feel like they are a good match for each other. It's exciting and life changing. In some ways it feels good that there will be someone to watch out for and care for her. I know we always will be there for her but it's nice to know Sebastian will too. Britni has turned from a little girl who was always curious and clumsy. She would manage to get herself in strange situations. From fall in toilets, crashing on roller blades but Cortni was the one bleeding, getting lost in Paris, getting lost in Chicago, getting lost in Danville, never really passing her drivers license, going to 2 weddings, 1 funeral, 2 receptions before getting to the right one, enjoying the arts, and finally growing up to be a beautiful, resourceful, very organized and a still a little gullible, women. She has always been adventurous, and comical, and caring. Sebastian is lucky to be getting my daughter and we are lucky to be getting a great son-in-law.

A Romantic Night?

Most Valentine's Days seem to be as busy as other days. Kevin and I are usually working, Malori is at school and then games, or practices after school which leaves very little time to celebrate a special romantic day. So I usually fix a special meal for supper, set the table with white and red stuff, candle, flowers, china, but this year since it was on a Saturday and Kevin didn't have to work we (Kevin and I) though we should go out to a nice restaurant. All week we had several ballgames and even at pizza 3 times. In small town after 9 not much else are open. So Friday comes around we both have the day off and call around to see if any place is doing anything special, dinners, music. We did find a few options. Malori ask that morning what I was fixing for dinner Saturday. I said dad and I are going to go out. "What, you always fix a fancy meal and give me presents. You can not do that!" (quote from Mal) Kevin and I looked at each other and said we didn't know Valentine's Day was for the kids? So Saturday morning Kevin and I decide (since we didn't get other plans made and we were tired of running around and being gone all week) we would just fix dinner and spend the evening at home. I had to work but would be done at 3. Kevin and Malori went to the grocery store and got the food, came home and set the table and started fixing the dinner. When I came home I help finish dinner we exchange presents and ate. Bruschetta, salad, stuffed shells, and brownies! We get done and Malori declares she's off to the girls sectionals she has to cheer for. So Kevin and I enjoyed a fire in the fireplace and just being together. We did enjoy our day with and without Malori.

After note: It was really nice for them to fix dinner but you should have seen the mess. They used every pan and dish they could find. Sunday it took me quite awhile to clean up. Thank goodness Valentine's Day only comes around once a year.

Senior Night

Saturday was a full day of events including the last swim meet and last home basketball game.

Senior Cheerleaders got to lead the pep band. Good thing they knew what to do because these girls didn't have a clue in what they were doing.
Me and Mal and Kevin, last time we will ever do this. Don't get me crying.

Cheerleaders

Malori and Dad at sectionals in Crawfordsville. Last swim meet. I just kept trying not to digest that thought so I wouldn't start crying. All three of my girls were on the North Vermillion Swim Team during the time they were in high school. I think this is one of the things I will miss most.

Malori had a great year and broke many of her own records and the schools. We are really proud of her not only for her accomplishments but for the person she has become.

How to get my sweet to be sweet?

In anticipation of Valentines Day coming, I have been trying to think of something to get Kevin or something different to do. We almost never get to do anything on Valentines Day except some times me making a nice "red" dinner. One of us is usually working, and/or Mal has something at school. So this year it's on Saturday which Kevin has off, no swim meets or basketball games! Now if I can come up with something.

Better yet how do I get Kevin to come up with something?

It's February already?

I can't believe it's February already? Every weekend since Christmas we have either been gone or have had company. I feel like it too. This weekend I am staying home. We have Mal's last swim meets on Thursday and Saturday. We are both sad and glad. Practices and meets seem to take up a lot of time but then she won't be swimming any more. I am hoping she breaks her record in the 50 again. If not she had a good swim season and we are really proud of her. I am hoping to get all my tax info together to get turned into our accountant. Besides that February looks to be less hectic and maybe we can get some things done in the house.

Happy Bithday Elias Morgan Krall

Elias
2nd cousin Malori and Elias

Great Grandparents

Brad coming to tell us he was finally here. Calynn is clapping she was so excited.

(sorry I don't think I spell her name right)

Yesterday we got to welcome my first great nephew into the world. We tried to give mom and dad time and not bother them but eventually we couldn't stand it any longer and headed to the hospital. We only had to wait about an hour and a half. We took turns going to see Brooke and Elias, and Brad. Ok I know everybody says their baby is cute but he really is. He only weight 7lbs and 8oz and 19in long. He was very alert for all of us and even made noises for us. We all laughed because his uncle Drew said well he isn't ugly. It was funny like he was expecting him to be. Malori and Bailie were saying he really is cute. I guess they were prepared for ugly and having to pretend he was cute. Congratulations Brooke and Brad!

Today Malori and I are headed for Chicago. This afternoon and evening we will spend the day at the Merchandise Mart. The living and giving expo is on this week. It is a great place to check out new merchandise for the store. Then Sunday we have tickets to a Bridal Show. We get to see a fashion show of gowns and the check out vendors for all kinds of wedding stuff. Invitations, reception hall, dresses, honeymoon places, florists, photographers you name it they will be there. I probably won't be able to afford most of it but it will give us some ideas. Can't wait to start the day except Mal's at swim practice again. I am all packed so as soon as she steps in the door we're off.
I did find out that in the polish traditions they don't do rehearsal dinners! Of course our luck the only thing the guy pays for. So I told Sebastian we could trade, we'll take the rehearsal and he can take the reception. Great idea!

Fact: Did you know the Mart is so big it has it's own zip code!

Fact: Because Britni works one block from the mart and her parking place is even closer I don't have to pay to park! Savings $30, day shopping with the girls PRICELESS! (maybe not for Kevin)

Difficult People

I had a lady come into the store today would was really rude and down right nasty. She had already been in when I wasn't there and was also rude to an employee. I gave her what she wanted to get rid of her and then after she left I got really upset. I frankly was ready to lock the doors and leave. With all the other stress over the business I just felt I couldn't deal with any more. After awhile I did compose myself and then later in the day I just got mad. Why did I give into her demands. I know in business "customers are always right" but really they are sometimes wrong. Later in the day the art class came and I just love those kids. They are fun and loving. So why do I waste so much time and thought on the few people who cause trouble. It does seem like I can only focus on what goes wrong than all the things that go right. There are many people who have been supportive to me.

A wonderful mentor to me who is no longer living, DiAnne, our former pastors wife, gave me scripture for different times in my life. One that comes to mind is "Harsh words stir up anger and a soft answer turns away wrath" (not a direct quote because I'm to tired to get up and look up the verse-its in Psalms) I need to have soft answers and sometimes just be quite. I doubt that lady will ever be in the store again and she probably will tell some others about it but I choose to not focus on her but continue walking where God wants me to.

Biggest Losers!

Kevin and I started our diets Monday and today we dusted off the treadmill and weight equipment. We took turns weight training for 10 minutes and then treadmill for 10 minutes the started over. I'm pretty sure I won't be able to move tomorrow. Our goal is 5 times a week. We watched the Biggest Loser on TV while we worked out. It did motivate us. If they can do it we can. I even checked out their website and might participate on line. I was thinking about getting their book anyway. I just happen to know a great place to get it!

Neither of us want to look like a hippo when Britni gets married so we are setting some goals and helping each other!

The Blues

Boy am I ever having a hard time getting back to some sort of schedule. I just have the blues. I don't feel like doing anything. No real reason. I have a long list of things that need to get done and things I need to get started on but just can't seem to get motivated. Any suggestions?
Maybe part of the reason is some of the stuff I need to do is no fun. Like taking down store decorations, end of the year taxes, and getting 2 wisdom teeth pulled. Need I say more?

Happy New Years!

I can't believe it's already 2009! This year has many changes in store for our family. Our last daughter graduating from high school, college decisions, maybe a wedding, a new baby, great nephew, arriving in just a month. Plus all the stuff we don't know that's coming. Some of these changes are exciting and scary. There is always mixed feeling with change, we know it happens but there is also sadness that life is moving on whether we are ready or not. So the best thing to do is trust God is doing the best for me and my family and embrace the changes. I know from past experiences not everything has gone my way and many things I wish we could avoid but those experiences also make me who I am. I love and cherish my family and look forward to this year.
January also brings some sad memories as I reflect on the past years. It has been 5 years since Kevin has been in church. I miss going to church as a family and sharing this area of our lives. I know he is doing what he thinks is right but my prayer for this year is he would see the need to have God in his life. Not my way or what I think God needs to do but God would meet Kevin where he is. I also pray for all three of my girls and that they would have a closer, personal relationship with God. I have learned my expectations are not always Gods and it isn't what others see that is important but our heart. In the past it has been more comfortable for me to have my family do the right thing in human eyes. But in many ways it is more truthful for them to not live a lie just to please me. God doesn't want us to be luke warm. Either cold or hot but the fact is,at times I would rather them be luke warm. How sad it is I put my needs before those I love. So that is my prayer, and hope I will be trust God for this year.
Trust in the Lord with all thy heart and lean not unto thy own understanding, in all thy ways acknowledge Him and he will direct thy paths. Prov 3:5&6