14 Years and Counting

Today is Faith's 14th Birthday.  Another milestone - for both of us. I can't help but relive those moments prior to and including her entrance into this world: they were amazing.  Full of what-if's, questions and concerns, and the ultimate statement I had been waiting 7 months to hear: she is a miracle.

Here we are, 14 years later. Lots of lessons learned, and lots more to come. We are both relatively healthy, with much to give God glory and thanks for. Really, that's what I am feeling the most: thankful. This child is a delight to discover as she grows and makes her personality more visible. She has a wonderful sense of humor, a warm heart, a deep love for her close friends and family, and a genuine gift with small children. Her gifts will increase, and develop as she grows - that is the way of things.

I am looking forward to all the future will bring: high school, first date, first prom, first job...the list goes on. It will be a joy to continue to watch her grow, and share in those special moments only Moms get to have. We have such a special part in our kids' lives - we help form their character with our words, our actions, our reactions. I pray that I have, and will continue to prepare her for her life with words of wisdom from the Word of God, with actions that say I believe those Words, and the surety of a Savior who loves her more than anything.

We were blessed with a lovely Skype date with Heather from Hungary.  We had a special breakfast of a cheese omelet and fried potatoes (which the dog helped himself to when her back was turned). We shopped for her special dinner: pot roast, mashed potatoes and cooked baby carrots, with a wonderful peach cobbler for dessert. Then: at her request, we broke out the Christmas decorations and began the mad mess that makes up Christmas. It was a great day, one of sweet memories and little details that make life so sweet. I especially loved the hug and kiss before bed :-)

Redeemed

My brother went home to be with Jesus today. I felt the song above was the only appropriate declaration of his life.  That which he is now, and that for which I am most thankful for.

I am sad, and at peace. I'll probably grieve for a while...but I am thankful I chose to go see him when I did. I got to look in his eyes, pray with him, and make him laugh and smile.He knew who I was, and we reminisced about some sweet times. The last time I saw him, he had fallen asleep with a look of contentment on his face. It was enough.  I know I'll see him in heaven one day - he prayed to receive Jesus as his Lord and Savior while I was there. It gave him peace, helped him rest, and something positive to focus his thoughts on.  I am very thankful for that.  He's my little brother. I'll miss him.  BUT...I will see him one day.  He has been redeemed.