Blue Skies

This week has really turned around for us.  On Monday, I thought I might not survive the rest of this winter.  My body may squinch up and fall over from the darkness and cold.  And, I think crossing the one month mark to our due date may have subconsciously gotten me down.  Its hard for dreams to die.  I've found a few times lately that if I can just SAY IT, it helps.  A few weeks ago, it was telling Mike about a fresh wave of grief that led me to sadness and then to anger.  This time, it was telling Blair about it on our morning walk.  

Saying here it is, Lord.  And begging Him to take it.  

There are days I can grasp perspective.  I find that to be true most often in worship.  

Sunday at church we sang Abide with Me.

"I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless

Ills have no weight, tears lose their bitterness

Where is thy sting death? Where grave thy victory?

I triumph still, abide with me."   

In my heart of hearts, I can feel it.  

Ills have no weight.  Tears lose their bitterness.

What a gift that is.

He's been good to give us relief in the form of sunshine too.  Its all inter-related!

Notice Lily's new "Berry Bear" in the closest swing.

 

 I really can't believe how BIG these kids are getting.  Lily's body is getting so big.  Her perfect little body is being transformed in front of my eyes.  Long legs.  Heavier.  I remember thinking Peter had a major growth spurt at 3.5.  And its felt the same way for Lily.  She's just becoming a big girl.  My heart.  I'm thrilled for a growing, healthy girl but my baby.... where did she go?!  I miss her!!   And Peter.  He's nearly as tall as I am!

 I totally made the kids lay on the ground with me to soak in the blinding, warm sun.  

 Then Peter found a different spot. 

 Naked Winter Trees.  Gorgeous.

 Then we went to the creek.  

This girl.  A little pride and independence and ugliness lately (like her mama).

 This week has been the turn around for him too.  

His energy level has nearly improved overnight!  

 Then they really just wanted to sit by the creek.  And I realized... its so good for them too.  Its so refreshing.  We just want to stop and listen to it.  To be refreshed as He leads us beside quiet waters.  

 Shortly after this, Lily fell in with one leg.  So we headed back.  But it was all such a JOY.  So awesome to have the freedom to be with these kids, to play in creeks, to play outside, to come home with sweet bare legs.  On a crisp sunny, warm-ish day!