This summer has been filled with such twists and turns. So many things that I just didn't foresee. Its been a much harder time than I could have imagined and I'm thankful I didn't know that this lay ahead. Early in May as we were heading into warmer days I pondered how we would spend our time. I've been reminded afresh that my time is really in God's hands and not my own.
This past week has been filled with yet more challenges. Some of it is too much to share because its not fully my story to tell. I will come back to it though because I do believe that there is comfort in the prayers of others and also in knowing you aren't alone in trials. For now though, I'm thinking back. Because even in the midst of the challenges, we have also had many sweet moments. I'm exceedingly grateful for those!
The river was something Christopher mentioned as I discussed our summer plans. One of my friends has a summer "bucket list" of fun things that her children wanted to do. I really liked that idea and wanted to do that with my family. We started making our list. Since our days with Christopher are few, I wanted to hit one on his list first.
We headed out on a beautiful day with our family and two of Christopher's friends from State. What fun to have them join our family. I've really enjoyed getting to know his friends. I love how easy it has been to add them in with our family. He has great friends. I'm so very thankful for the blessing of friendship and love seeing him developing wonderful ones.
Even though it was a holiday, it wasn't too crowded and the weather was just perfect. (It was Memorial Day and not the 4th in case anyone is wondering.)
As we walk through life, there is much that is out of our control. Yet we still go forward along the path that is ours.
Sometimes the path leads us to beautiful peaceful places.
Sometimes we just can't see what is ahead. I'm glad for that though. I know God gives us grace and strength to handle challenges as we walk through them - not before we walk through them, but in the midst of it. It doesn't mean that this makes the challenges easy - not at all! It means though that we aren't alone. We have hope.
It is also such a blessing to have family and friends to join you on the paths. To walk with you with times are hard and heavy and also when they are light and fun.
This day was one of those light days. Sunshine. Laughter.
The day was fun and yet slow and easy. No rush to go or to do or to be anywhere. I think more of our days should be just like this one!
When my pace is slow, it is easier to reflect, to notice God's handiwork and to just enjoy all that is around me.
People. Really life is made up of times with people. I want to be a person that is a blessing whether the time with someone is short or long. Days or years.
Just looking at these pictures makes me smile. It brings back the memories of sweet times even in the midst of hard ones. Its a reminder of good times past and a looking forward of those times to come too.
Who can resist smiling at this sweet face? Can't you just see the happiness?
Really all of these faces make me smile. I thank God for the many blessings He has poured out in my life.
Climbing rocks and building dams
Splashing in the water.
Taking walks through the woods.
Together for a picnic lunch. Then off to play and explore some more.
For those that are local, this is Few's Ford on the Eno. A really fun place!
I love pictures like this. Just reminds me of so much. To slow down and enjoy. Even when things are swirling around you - in your control or out of it. Take time to enjoy. Especially the people. Enjoy those around you that you love. Time sometimes seems in abundance and then one day you wake up and find it just moves so quickly.
Things change. And even sometimes when I wish I could go backward to an easier time and an easier pace, I have to stop. And remind myself to be thankful for today. God has blessed me today with so many gifts and I want to enjoy them fully. Today.
Sometimes it is looking for the blessings in the little things. In unusual places or circumstances. I know when I look or rather pay attention, that I see them.
In other ways the blessings are abundantly obvious. Staring me in the face.
At this point in my life, I find that I'm looking forward and looking backward, but mostly just trying to enjoy the present. It is a gift to be enjoyed.
Mostly, I need reminders to keep my focus on God. To look at Him and not to dwell on my path, but rather to concentrate on Him.
What are you thankful for today?
I'm thankful for so many things - family, friends, freedom and much more. My heart is full. I hope yours is too!
With love
Leslie
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