I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas this year. I know ours was extremely special because it was our first Christmas with all three kids. A little more expensive of course, but even more blessed. It's wonderful to see our kids learning what the true meaning of Christmas is and getting a real understanding of what God really did for us through his son Jesus Christ.

We spent several days leading up to Christmas with family. I'm especially mindful of this time this year because I know so many others out there who are hurting right now at Christmas and are not able to have that time with family. And of course it always brings back memories of my family that has gone on to be with the Lord. It's always a little bittersweet this time of year. I miss my grandparents in so many ways which makes me treasure the time we have with Brandon's grandparents even more. I'm sure it's the way God intended it.

Since Brandon has been with the fire service, he of course comes home with a variety of stories to tell. Some can be quite humorous and others can be sad. I want to share one of his latest and how it touched me. Brandon has said before that on many occasions they will have people come to the door asking for money. They have been told to always be cautious in giving them any because they are in a bad part of town and know that to often this money gets used for illegal purposes. But just before Christmas this year, a man came to the door of his Fire Department and asked for not money...but food... with tears streaming down his face. Brandon shared this with me...with the same emotion. They of course helped the man any way they could, but it struck me how Brandon's job as with any job...can be used as a ministry. God gives us all so many opportunities to help those in need and we just have to watch for them. It can be something as simple as helping someone to their car or holding a door open in kindness. I'm just reminded how these simple acts of kindness are not only for those who receive them but those who give them as well. If there are any actions that I want my children to pick up on and take with them as they grow it is most of all these simple acts of kindness when someone is hurting. What better example can we give of Christs Love!

I've had Rascall Flats song God bless the Broken Road on my mind so much lately. Enjoy the words when you hear it. It reminds me how God is always directing my path if I will just allow him to.


I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and have a safe and wonderful New Year!

What I am Thankful For!

I underestimated how hard it would be to find time for blogging. I love to put my thoughts to paper, but it just seems time to myself is few and far between these days. Oh well, I wouldn't wish it were any other way!



Thanksgiving this year seems to have really snuck up on me. It's amazing how much has really changed for my family this year.



I love the holidays...especially with my kids. I wonder if others out there struggle with what I face during this time, though. I look forward to every family get together, but since the loss of my grandparents it seems I rarely get through a holiday where I don't miss them terribly. I guess the family time and the food just brings there memory so close to home.



I've felt really blessed to have had each of them in my life for the time they were here. And I have been even more blessed to become an adopted granddaughter to Brandon's grandparents. It warms my heart so much to see my children building a relationship with their great-grandparents as well as their grandparents.



I think more than anything at this point in my life, I wish that my grandparents could see my life now and my children. I know they would enjoy them so much.



I do find comfort in one thought, though. I'm one of those that believes when family that has gone on before us comes to mind...that is God's way of allowing us to feel there presence once again. Even if it is in a shed tear.



So...what I'm thankful for? Family...time spent with family...relationships built with new family...and the time that God allows for us all to get to know each others hearts.