Mother's Day 2010....another blessed day. Kerri visited Eric's mom this year so it was just Mike, Nicole, Austin, Mom and Mike. We had a nice lunch at the countryclub. Austin made us laugh and once again, I was in awe of how lucky I am to be so loved. My son gave me a card that is hard for me to believe it wasn't written especially for me. I really want to share it. Those of you who are familiar with our history will see how special this card really was.

From your Son... When I think about all the times I made you worry, it makes me appreciate how well you handled the challenging job of being my mom. The good news is, those days are behind us now, and we both made it through. And you know what? You did good. Really good. Happy Mother's Day.

Oh, he was a challenge. But I wouldn't trade him for any other son on the face of the earth. He has grown into a very good man. Thanks for being my son Mikey.

Trying to bring some sort of closure to the way Kerri's adoption journey has ended. I gave my heart away to this little girl a long time ago and she will ALWAYS have it. I worked on something today to help me remember and at the same time move on. I framed her beautiful picture with some scripture and it will be placed in a place that I will see often. I just hope she feels the prayers from some people in the USA that have been and will always be prayed for her.

It's been such a long journey and this is not the ending we were hoping for. But our little Nana will not be coming home. Pray for this child. May God keep her in His love and may she grow strong and always know there are people far, far away that love her very much.

I love walking around my house after the kids have been here. Kerri and Cora and the boys spent the week-end and the typical signs are everywhere... a drawing with "to nana from trey" scrawled on top, catalogs with dog-eared pages to mark the spot (things they must have) and pieces of toys found everywhere for days. I LOVE it. I wouldn't want it any other way. I smile everytime I find a marker or a candy wrapper and that usually happens for several days. I hope their memories are as wonderful as mine.

I was just reading my daughter's blog about delivering our beautiful little Cora Jean. I was suddenly overwhelmed with the realization that God is really in control. We make plans and think we know what will be. Nobody expected to hear the words "I'm pregnant" from my daughter again. They had other plans. But so did God. She is beautifully perfect and I already find myself thinking how empty our family would seem without her. Kerri and Eric had plans for a little girl to enter their family. None of us really know where those plans are right now, only God knows. But for now, I am so happy that God had Cora in mind and I can't wait to get to know her. God has blessed our family... once again.

A song I really love by Elton John says, "all life is precious and every day's a prize". Days can certainly bring "sur"-prises too, some good, some not so much. At least it may not seem so good on the surface. But I choose to believe that even what may start as troublesome, can really turn out for good. I really want to take hold of everyday and squeeze it and learn from it and move on from it. As I get older, I find I'm not wanting to move on so quickly and I would even like to stand still from time to time. But that's not possible and so I just hope I can move on for a long time to come. (LOL=facebook speak, meaning laugh out loud!) So here are some pics that remind me that Elton just might be right.

Easter week. What a wonderful time for the Christian to celebrate. My pastor reminded me that EVERYTHING changed with the events that we call Easter. From that point on, nothing was ever the same. I'm thanking God for the cross, the grave and the power of His resurrection this week.

He became sin, who knew no sin,
That we might become His righteousness.
He humbled Himself and carried the cross...
Love so amazing, love so amazing....

Jesus Messiah, name above all names,
Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel.
The rescue for sinners
The ransom from heaven
Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.

His body the bread, His blood the wine,
Broken and poured out all for love.
The whole earth trembled and the veil was torn.....

Love so amazing, love so amazing!

I like these words I found this morning.

Celebrate the temporary
Don't wait until tomorrow - Live today
Celebrate the simple things
Enjoy the butterfly
Embrace the snow
Run with the ocean
Delight in the trees or a single lonely flower
Go barefoot in the wet grass

Don't wait until all the problems are solved
or all the bills are paid - you will wait forever.
Eternity will come and go and you
will still be waiting

Live in the now
with all its problems and its agonies,
with its joy and its pain

Celebrate your pain, your despair, your anger
It means you're alive
Look closer, breathe deeper, stand taller,
stop grieving the past

There is joy and beauty
Today

It is temporary, here now and gone

so celebrate it while you can
Celebrate the temporary

-From Celebrate the Temporary by Clyde Reid

Had trouble getting to sleep last night. So many friends on my mind experiencing so much pain. So... I prayed. I finally dropped off to sleep and their faces were right there when I woke. Music helps more than anything. It expresses things I am incapable of expressing, it soothes my soul. I heard this one for today.

How many names an I use to explain the love of my Jesus, the life that He gave
And so many times will I praise You today, I lift up my life 'cause you're always the same
And my offering to You I bring

Your name is Jesus. Your name is Jesus.
You're the Wonderful, Counselor, my Friend.
You're what I hold on to; I know that You brought me through
All the days of loss, to the cross You knew... I'd need a Savior

How many songs can I sing to proclaim Your wondrous love and beauty so great?
What would I say if You brought down the rain and everyday I walk through the pain
My heart would still say...

You're what I hold on to; I know that you brought me through
All the days of loss, to the cross You knew... I'd need a Savior

Cora Jean Stetler finally entered the world on March 4th at 10:15 a.m. She is a beautiful bouncing baby girl weighing 8 lb. 8 oz and measuring 21 3/4" . Everything is perfect. Ten fingers, ten toes, and a combination of all her brothers giving her a face like no other. Sometimes I am totally overwhelmed with the thought of how blessed I am with these unbelievable grandchildren. I can't wait to get her started on this journey with all of us. God bless you Cora Jean. Nana loves you.

Life is so strange. I'm sitting here waiting for a little angel to enter this earth and I just found out the angels came and took a good friend from this us. Bittersweet, so much of life is bittersweet. We love you Marollyn, we will miss your smile. Enjoy what God has prepared for you. Welcome Cora Jean, we can't wait to see you, straight from heaven to bless us here on earth.

These words of a song we sang in church blew me away this morning. "You paint the morning sky with miracles in mind". I have no doubt that I approach too many days, not looking for God's miracles. The chorus says; "How deep, how wide, how great is Your love for me". Forgive me Lord, may I look to the sky to find your miracle in every day. May I never stop being amazed at the miracle of your love for me.

Well, back from a beautiful week in Puerto Rico. We had perfect weather, the only down-side was that Mike had to work. But I reminded him, if it wasn't for his job, we wouldn't even be there. I proved to myself that attitude is everything. I wasn't sure about so many days with nothing to do but sit by the pool but I chose to go with it, knowing life would get crazy with a new grandbaby and all. I was able to relax and relish every minute. I never wished the time away and when the time came to return, I was ready to see my home and family. I think I am finally learning how to live in the moment.

While I was gone, Trey showed us what he is made of and had some oral surgery. It sounds like he did great. I can't wait to see all the boys. Everyone will be over Sunday for a Valentine lunch.

This will sound really random but I haven't been able to blog for a while and this has been on my mind. The last OSU game I was at, honored the 1960 Championship team. I remember it like it was yesterday. They also unveiled a banner in the Schott, to honor the coach of that tem, Fred Taylor. I sat there and thought how important it is to send the roses while they are alive. This banner should have gone up a long, long time ago, he was a great coach and everyone knew he was an even better man.

I hope to do a better job at this as I go forward with my life. There are so many people around me that deserve to be thanked for the way they have touched my life.

Mike finally got home from another week away. However, he's been comatose most of the day. That's just what happens after a market. It's been a good week-end. Went to see both Trey and Riley play basketball. They are so much fun to watch. Kerri, Eric and the boys spent the rest of the day with me and watched OSU take a disappointing defeat. My mom joined us for the game. Unfortunately, Mom is not doing so well lately. I am hoping it is just some medication problems. I will be taking her for an MRI tomorrow. She has fought hard to win over her loneliness but I think she is just getting tired.

Not feeling the greatest tonight. Worried about my mom, took her to the doc today. They will run some tests. Quiet in the house tonight. Then I checked my e-mail and I got the best message in the world from my oldest grandson. It's so nice to be loved so unconditionally. Kids know how to do that so naturally. Friends over tomorrow night and dinner sometime with the Stetler kids this week. Mikey, Nicole and Austin were over for lunch yesterday and we played monopoly. Nothing beats just being together. I wouldn't trade those times for anything. Just a little melancholy but I often am this time of the year. I keep reminding myself it won't be TOO long til we'll be here:

I'm trying, I'm really trying. I just don't understand. Why is there a beautiful little girl in Liberia that is loved and wanted by a family here and it just doesn't seem to happen? Why are there two little boys in Haiti that were scheduled to come to a loving family next week, but instead they are enduring a massive earthquake and may not make it home. I look at pictures of these children and all I can do is cry and ask why. There are no answers, only questions. So I will pray and as I pray I am reminded that God has taken care of them to this point and He will not leave them. I pray for miracles, yes, I still believe in miracles.

So far so good. I've spent more time with God in the mornings. Don't know why I seem to wander from this practice. I always leave that meeting place more calm and focused for the day and realizing that He leaves that place with me. I find it easier to live one day at a time and I enjoy that day and get so much more accomplished. Somehow I don't even feel as tired at the end of it all. It's just good to know that we're friends.

Today is shopping and the OSU basketball game with my daughter. More snow tomorrow and that's fine with me. Just hope my sister can get in from OKC on Friday night. Sunday will be a fun day with a baby shower to get ready for our little Cora Jean. It's coming soon and I still am having trouble thinking pink. I've had a lot of blue years!! I spent some of yesterday checking out tutus online. Can you say Princess?!

It's mind-boggling. My husband and I were talking about all that has happened in the last decade, 10 short years and it's mind-boggling. I wasn't even a Nana when we rang in 2000. Wow, it's been quite a ride. Good and bad, but even out of the bad has come good. I owe that all to God. He is a master at that. I wouldn't want to be doing this life any other way than with God and the family and friends He has given me. I'm looking forward to this year. I'm sure not every day will be wonderful and free from stress. But I proved a LONG time ago, that with God I can get through anything and come out on the other side knowing He was with me the entire way. I hope and pray 2010 will find me to be a better follower of His. I'm sure He won't fail me, I certainly don't want to fail Him.

Another beautiful Christmas day is over. What do I love about Christmas? Everything. I know it is talked about often and at the risk of sounding cheesy, I really want to carry Christmas with me this year. Christmas is real, there is no reason why I can't celebrate it all year and this coming year that is exactly what I am going to do.

I'm sure my Dad is smiling about the thoughtful gift my daughter and son-in-law gave. I have a wonderful, hand- made porch swing that my dad made for me years ago. I would hate to think what it would cost if bought, it is so well made. It is in need of some tender loving care and she has contacted my wonderful handyman and he will come and make it look like new.

I continue to carry on the tradition of mis-placed gifts on Christmas morning. I'm sure my Dad is smiling about that too.

I hope you all had a wonderful day, and maybe you are thinking about carrying Christmas with you throughout 2010 also. Happy New Year.

Counting my blessings tonight. Sooo many!! Family, friends, health, hope. Looking forward to a beautiful Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Thankful for the way God leads and directs us and the peace He gives when we trust Him.

It's been a while since my last post. I have accomplished a more relaxed approach to Christmas this year. I am finding myself getting up Very early and enjoying the quiet and lights of the house. I love Christmas lights. I am almost finished with my shopping. A few things are still on their way from the virtual shopping mall. I have found a balance of online shopping and shopping "on foot" so to speak. It seems like the more I wrap, the more there is to wrap.

More changes to come in the family. My kids certainly keep things interesting. More to come on this as it develops.

Today is Trey's birthday. What a special little boy. (I know, you hear me say that about all of them) He had a fun pool party with his friends. Everybody loves Trey. As he grows I realize that he is going to be one of those people that know how to make the people around him feel special and accepted.
We will be celebrating Friday night with a Star Wars cake. He has ordered mac'n cheese, green beans and rolls. Happy Birthday Trey!!

I am so grateful today for God's protection. He never sleeps, He is always watching. We can rest in that thought. He knows where we are and what is ahead at all times. He sees what we cannot see and sends His angels to take care of us. He is good. I love Him more than I could ever say and just needed to take the opportunity to say that. I never want to take for granted that He cares enough to watch out for us minute by minute. I shower my family with prayer and He does the rest. Sometimes we are aware of His protection and sometimes I believe we don't even know. But this time, today, I am aware and I am grateful.

Not the best of days. I had Austin at the mall today and he was not wanting to hold my hand. He dropped down to the floor and I tried to lift him back to his feet with his arm. Not a good idea. Spent the day at urgent care and feeling like the worst Nana in the world. I think he is o.k. but I feel like I've been run over by a truck. Couldn't have felt much worse if I tried. I would put my life on the line for all of my grandchildren, they are everything to me. Thank goodness he is o.k. Sorry Austin, hope you forgive your Nana.

Spent Sunday evening at Polaris with my family. (we missed you Eric) Ate dinner, saw the Christmas tree, caught a glimpse of Santa and did some Christmas shopping. I am never happier than when I have my family around and the hustle and bustle makes me smile much to the dismay of my husband and daughter. So, needless to say I had a fun time. However, the highlight of the evening was at the end of the evening. I said good-by one at a time to my three oldest grand-children and each of them asked me the same question; "when will we see you again Nana?". OMG!!! If I'm honest, I know the day will come when they won't be thinking that as they leave my side. But for now, I'll just revel in the delight of those words.

Feeling a little overwhelmed today. Nothing major, just living life. It's amazing to me how God can get our attention in so many different ways. Usually when I'm feeling this way, I haven't spent enough time with Him. He used my silly facebook today. Just looking through friends' updates I ran across a wonderful quote by one of my favorite authors. I don't know the reason why this friend had posted it, maybe she's feeling some of the same feelings today. Nevertheless, she posted it and just left it there, waiting for me to stumble on it and I'm glad she did. It's a simple quote, may not mean anything to anybody else. But to me.... well, it smacked me right in the heart and reminded me of God's love for me.

"Your part is prayer and gratitude. God's part? Peace and protection."

Thanks to Max Lucado and to my friend.

Babysat for Austin today and made dinner for Kerri, Eric and the boys. I worked on Austin's scrapbook and almost have it finished. I am beginning to have more energy and feeling much better than the last few weeks. I did some things and made some decisions and became pro-active about the physical problems that seemed to be slowing me down. The house was alive today with family. That's how I like it. I'm looking forward to jumping into the holidays. I really hope I can slow my husband down a little. He is meeting himself coming and going lately. Overall life is good. I think I'll take advantage of the weather and get some outside lights up before the cold hits.

I'm a little slow posting this one but a week ago Kerri and the boys took me to Hueston Woods to enjoy the week-end out in nature. What a great two days!! I still pinch myself when I look around at my family. They are wonderful, and I am so grateful for the blessings I have in them. We had such a good time in our little cabin, hiking, swimming and laughing. My family give me memories that can never be forgotten even though I struggle with my memory in my old age.
Sometimes I get a little sad at the thought of how quickly my own children have grown, but the cycle of life is good and my grandchildren are making sure I enjoy this chapter as much as the chapters that came before. Here are some more snapshots of this part of my book of life.

I LOVE October. Actually I love Oct., Nov., and Dec. It starts when I decorate for fall and it builds to the most wonderful time of the year - Christmas! Fall leaves, pumpkins, scented candles and fireplaces is how it all begins. Sweaters and jeans replace flip flops and capris. But I tend to get so caught up in the planning for the holidays, I really don't take the time to just be in the moment of the my favorite time of the year. I need to find a way to make it all wonderful for my family but at the same time sit back and take it all in. I think that is why I often feel such a post-holiday let down. I work through my lists everyday, to make sure everything gets done. I really hope I can make getting things accomplished, less of a priority this year. Just not sure how.

Chicken 'n noodles on the stove, grandkids eating muffins and building train tracks, listening to the rain on the roof of the porch and cheering for the Buckeyes all on a Saturday afternoon. I don't think there is another way to describe this - it's heaven on earth. I'll say it again "I am so blessed".

Monday, my beautiful daughter will be 32 yrs. old. It's hard to believe, 32 years is a long time. How do I describe Kerri Lynn Pressley Stetler? Beautiful, feisty, smart,out-spoken, compassionate, loving, thoughtful and simply the best daughter a mom could ever hope for. She is my friend and confidant and I have no doubt that she would do anything at all for me. I honestly don't know what I would ever do without her. She put a smile on my father's face like nobody else could. My mother literally beams when she talks about her. She's always had her dad wrapped around her little finger. And her brother admires her like no other, she has always been there for him even in the tough times. I love my daughter more than I could ever express in words and I wish her a very happy birthday. She deserves life's best.

I took Evan to see The Wiggles yesterday. Sooooo much fun. I love them. They are truly amazing. They've been around a long time and they seem to get more active every time I see them. It's an hour and a half of sheer fun. Kids are great.

I've thought a lot lately about how my situation in life is so different than several years ago. But I have learned that through external changes in life, a few things stay the same.

There's nothing like the warmth of a summer afternoon
Waking to the sunlight, and being cradles by the moon
Catching fireflies at night
Building castles in the sand
Kissing Mama's face goodnight
Holding Daddy's hand
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

Running barefoot through the grass
A little hide and go seek
Being so in love, that you can hardly eat
Dancing in the dark, when there's no one else around
Being bundled 'neath the covers, watching snow
fall to the groun
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

So many things I thought would bring me happiness
Some dreams that are realities today
Such an irony the things that mean the most to me
Are the memories that I've made along the way

So if there's anything I've learned
From this journey I am on
Simple truths will keep you going
Simple love will keep you strong
Cause there are questions without answers
Flames that never die
Heartaches we go through are often blessings in disguise
So thank you Lord, oh thank you Lord
How could I ask for more?

Another school year. Doesn't seem possible. I watched as kids stood at the bus stop and older ones walked off. Parents with camera in hand, mom's who don't want to let them go and I watch all this as if they were my own. Why? Because it seems like it was just yesterday that I was doing the same thing. It can't be possible that my daughter is seeing her oldest off to 2nd. grade and Trey will be starting kindergarten. I want to stop and tell them all to hold each day as a precious gift. This chapter in the book doesn't last long. I'm praying for my grandson as I write this, praying that he will have good experiences in that classroom, experiences that will him make him smile when he is looking back and remembering. Because he will be remembering all too soon.

Habakkuk 2:20

"Like Israel in that day, we want fast answers to our crisis, but if we want to hear the God who speaks, we must learn the discipline of silence. It is the supreme act of faith and surrender to simply wait upon the Lord. He is there and He wants to speak to His children, but it will be on His terms and not ours." I really want to master this. You would think I would have by now, but I am getting better at it. The reality that helps me is understanding how awesome it is that the
God of the universe cares enough about me to WANT to speak and help. AMAZING!! I'm excited about seeing His answers, they are always perfect.

Do I believe in miracles? I certainly do!! Read why: http://www.acresofhopeblog.blogspot.com/
Things are definitely moving in the right direction for our little miracle too. We are all very hopeful that it won't be much longer that Eric will be leaving for Liberia to bring our little Nana home. Riley told his mom that evidently God doesn't perform miracles anymore like we read in the Bible. But Kerri reminded him of Alvin's miracle and no one can deny that it is no less miraculous than the ones we read about in God's word. I'm sure you will agree when you read this blog. Take the time, I promise it will bless your heart.

Last night we celebrated Riley's birthday. It was #8. That still hasn't soaked in. That little bundle that we never thought would come at the end of that hot summer. He is such a joy, always has been. He loves life and is very good at it. He likes to do things the right way and I have no doubt he will life his life that way. He is getting tall and lanky and I swear I don't know where he puts all that food, but we can't fill him up. I always thought he looked like his daddy but lately I've seen a lot of mommy in him. He fills a very special place in our family. Happy Birthday Riley. I love you.

I can't believe it. August is here. It's like groundhog day, I keep saying it every year about this time; "where did the summer go?". Some people have been complaining about the weather this summer, but I have loved it. I prefer the lower temps, I hate the high temps and humidity. But never fear, we still have August for that. Now we can look forward to fall and a very eventful 2010. We could very easily gain two new grandchildren in the new year. That hasn't sunk in yet. My boys continue to keep me on my toes and make me smile. NOBODY makes me smile like them. Hugs and kisses, arms outstretched and little gifts tell me how much they love me but I could never put into words how I feel about them. I just hope they always know. Once again there are so many things that I am trying to let God handle in my family. God has made it very plain to me that I need to let Him work things out - I'll only botch it up. I need to pray more. "Pray without ceasing", that's what we are to do. So, as I tumble head-long into fall, I will pray as I go.

I had Austin yesterday. We had a good day. We took two walks, played on the swings at the park, and ate a snack in the front porch swing. My dad made that swing. We also sat in the yard under a huge old tree that is shaped perfectly and gives shade to at least half of my side yard. Austin heard all about the men that planted that tree for me. My dad and his best friend Ralph. They dug that tree up and hauled it to my house when it was small. I enjoy that tree so much. I hope I leave strong things behind on this earth.

Home from another great 2 weeks at the beach. Wow it goes fast. We had gorgeous weather and lots of fun. We introduced Austin to the ocean and he loved it. Mike had his birthday and we had our 35th anniversary. I got some kind of sun reaction and my lips swelled up and developed sores. I hate steroids. They got rid of the sores but sent me to a place after I got home that I have never been - the doors of hell!! Really, I was so sick I called 911. I lost almost a week and I am still trying to get back to normal but hey, we had a GREAT vacation. So now, summer continues and I hate to think how quickly it will vanish. We've picked strawberries and made freezer jam and I had my first georgia peach yesterday. I came back with too much weight due to the unbelievable fudge that can be found in Topsail but I don't regret one single bite. Next week I head for our annual trip to one of my favorite places, Nashville Indiana, with my husband. A little golf, a lot of shopping and some together quiet time in a place that takes you back in time. We've had some very interesting news but that will have to come in another blog. Hmmm....... don't you wonder what that is? Enjoy the pics.

I'm having a tough day. Yes, we're at the beach and yes all my kids and grandkids are with me. The weather is beautiful, hot but beautiful and we still have a full week left. But back home today, a wonderful friend was laid to rest and three beautiful women are suffering. My heart is with them and there is nothing I can do. Rest in peace Marvin, and I know you will be waiting for us. Not being there has been really hard but I don't think it was to be. We tried but in our striving I think we realized we were to be here. Here, with my precious family, so grateful for the time together and the memories we are making. Today I am thanking God for the blessing of family, I don't ever want to take it for granted.

Our family celebrated this week-end. We celebrated out loud and we celebrated quietly. Out loud we had a great time celebrating the fact that we have an adorable 3 yr. old that keeps us laughing and shaking our heads at what he does and says. He is so funny. Such a little pickle. He is large and in charge and he won't let you forget it. I made homemade chicken nuggets because that's what Pickle ordered. We had a good time. But quietly, in our own private way we were also celebrating a one year celebration. My dad went to be with Jesus one year ago and we all were remembering. It wasn't spoken but we remember. How could we ever forget this man that loved us all so much. Nobody enjoyed celebrating more than my dad and I think he was right there with us, having a good old time. I can't wait to see him again. Love you Dad.

Another wonderful day to be alive. And yes, another song that says it for me today. I am so thankful God gave the gift of songwriting to people, just wish it had been me. Nevertheless, nothing speaks to me like music and I really want to pass these words on today.

There's nothing like the warmth of a summer afternoon
Waking to the sunlight, and being cradled by the moon
Catching fireflies at night
Building castles in the sand
Kissing Mama's face goodnight
Holding Daddy's hand
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

Running barefoot through the grass
A little hide and go seek
Being so in love, that you can hardly eat
Dancing in the dark, when there's no one else around
Being bundled 'neath the covers, watching snow
Fall to the ground
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

So many things I thought would bring me happiness
Some dreams that are realities today
Such an irony the things that mean the most to me
Are the memories that I've made along the way

So if there's anything I've learned
From this journey I am on
Simple truths will keep you going
Simple love will keep you strong
Cause there are questions without answers
Flames that never die
Heartaches we go through are often blessings in disguise
So thank you Lord, oh thank you Lord
How could I ask for more

These thoughts in this song are so true in my heart that I'm sure somewhere along the way I would have written them. (LOL) It is amazing how much this expresses where I've been living lately. I'm very thankful for what
God has taught me on this journey.

Well, another week-end. They come faster every week. Mike will be driving in from Dayton after flying in on the red-eye. He has been traveling all week and I hope he won't be too tired to enjoy the week-end. I am really looking forward to spending some time with Kerri and Eric. It isn't often that we get to have adult time, just the four of us. The little ones are going to Lake Chautauqua with Mimi and PopPop. We are going to go to Northstar for breakfast and then to the Clintonville market to pick up my first summer meat CSA. Sunday will bring a memorial service at Shepard's Memorial Garden for my dad and then out to "Jack-town" for some fried chicken with my mom. I think I'll drive out to Little Turtle and check on golf lessons for Nicole and me, it's another beautiful day to take the little blue car out. Yes, life is good. I have learned when I have all these plans, however, that I must remain open to changes. I remind myself to live one day at a time, that is how it works best. So... today, bring it on and I hope my plans are flexible enough to not interfere with His.

I've been thinking back about Mother's Day this year and find it very comforting how things change but they really don't. I remember so many Sunday afternoons on my grandmothers front porch just being family. Her porch was concrete and it was always painted and spotlessly clean. We might make homemade ice cream and my cousins and I would take turns turning the handle in anticipation. My mind then goes to many Sunday afternoons on my mothers front porch, smaller but just as spotless with that outdoor green carpet that looked like short, fake grass. We would all squeeze in and watch the kids play. This past Sunday, I have a beautiful picture in my mind of my front porch. Mom was in the wicker rocker and we took turns swinging in the porch swing my dad made me. We have more places to choose to sit, (Mike and Eric spent a lot of their time on the back deck), but it still has the same feel; family being family. I hope we have many, many more times like this but one thing's for sure - my porch is dirty so I think I'll go hose it down and get it ready for the next family get together.

What a wonderful Mother's Day. I told my husband that all I wanted was both of my children in church with me. That's where they were raised and we don't get to worship there together very often. Sitting in that service today with a child on each side of me, was heaven on earth. I felt as if we had come full circle. All the pain and struggle and prayers over the past years were worth it. We were home, together and God is good.

Dropped in on my daughter and Evan this morning to their surprise. They had made chocolate chippy cookies (Evans name for no-bakes) and I just had to have one. A couple games of Candy Land and Wiggles Uno, picking up Trey from pre-school and sharing lunch with them at Wendy's all in all made for a wonderful day. It would be really hard to ever put into words what my family means to me. I really feel sorry for the rest of the world because I have the best family known to man. I am thanking God for everyday He gives me and trying not to take anything for granted. I'm trying to put myself in the place of some very special people in my life who are going through a very difficult time. I can't seem to get them off my mind. I have trouble finding light in their situation so I turn to one of my favorite hymns. I find real comfort in these words:

Be still, my soul; the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; thy best, thy heavenly Friend,
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul; thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence, let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul; the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

Be still, my soul, though dearest friends depart
And all is darkened in the vale of tears;
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrows and thy fears.
Be still, my soul; thy Jesus can repay
From His own fullness all He takes away.

Be still, my soul; the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul; when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

I was playing around on facebook yesterday and I came across a great picture of my dad that I was able to make into a flair button. I got many comments on it as he was so loved by so many. I looked closely at his face, his eyes, and all at once I realized why I never really have any problem accepting the fact that my heavenly Father loves me. I saw the same love, kindness, patience and understanding in those eyes that I know God has for me. So many people struggle to understand why God could possibly love them but I was blessed with a father that showed me God's love everyday. Thanks Dad.