Being a mother...

has been the most amazing adventure I've ever been on.  I celebrated my first Mother's Day 19 years ago holding my precious new baby boy.  It was a sweet and delightful time.  My journey into motherhood started easily and the days were filled with laughter, books, smiles and joy.

As I started this road, I was thankful to have my own wonderful Mom as a role model.  Someone who has always loved me as I am and encouraged me as I explored my world.  Someone that challenged me, cheered for me and lifted me up in prayer.  Oh, you can never know the power of a praying Mom.  I'm so very thankful that God has given me an amazing and wonderful Mom.  I wish I could be with you today Mom.  I am thankful for you and I love you very much!

As I continued on this road, I learned that it isn't always easy.  Bumps, bruises, sickness came ... temporary afflictions that were usually helped with a kiss and a hug and a cuddle with mom.  The more that we walked though, the bigger the challenges sometimes became  ... emergency rooms, chronic illnesses, miscarriage and heart failure.  It is in those times that I found myself the one needing comfort.  I was the one that needed to be held and kissed and comforted.  I'm thankful for family and friends that have walked this road with me.  I'm most thankful for a God who is always there.  Always faithful.  Always strong.  It is during these low times that I have learned the most.   The more vulnerable I have been, the more open to God's lessons my heart seems to be.

Our family is once again walking through a valley.  I know that God has lessons for us to learn as we fall on our knees and depend on Him.  I know that He is holding us when we are afraid, worried, and scared. I know that He is in control.  I know He loves us.  I know that He took our place and paid the penalty so that we can have life in Him.  I know all these things and yet daily and sometimes more often than that, I'm having to give Him this burden.  It is a process to continue to trust when there is nothing more that can be done.

I can't share details, but know that our family would greatly appreciate your prayers as we walk through this valley.  I am thankful for our family and friends who surround us.  I'm thankful for a Father who loves us completely, thoroughly  - forever.

With love
Leslie