Almond Joy Creamer

So, as I sit here tonight, in the quiet stillness of our lamp-lit living room, I can't help but think, "I'm excited about my coffee tomorrow morning, with my Almond Joy Creamer." haha
I love the fact that each morning starts a new day, a new beginning. Watching the news today, I began to think about all of the hardships that people are facing and the wars and rumors of wars. I'm so thankful that God is faithful. And, His mercies are new each morning. I'm praying for the peace of Israel and that our country will turn their hearts toward God and see Him for who He is. He is such a loving, just God. He is the one true God. It's sad seeing people turn away from God. It's heartbreaking to know that women and children are being violated by the business of human trafficking. It's all too much for me to handle. Too big for me to wrap my mind around. Too much. But, it's not too much for God. It's not a surprise to Him. He knows. He cares. I can trust Him.
"[His mercies] are new every morning. Great is his faithfulness." Lamentations 3:23

My little Valentine

My sweet sweet Madilyn. She makes each day brighter and bigger and better than the last. Her zest for living is off the charts. The little Valentine in our family. Our sweet Madilyn.

We spent the morning of Valentine's Day together, since Cameron had to go to school--someone has to be responsible and bring home the bacon.

Madilyn and I hit up the Children's Museum and had some fun times making cookies at home, too. My life in Erie would be so much more boring if God hadn't given her to us. She's our blessing, our reward. Life with Madilyn is the best life ever :) God's timing is perfect.

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward." Psalm 127:3

The snow finally came! Yay! It's the middle of February, but it's here! Madilyn and I took advantage today being sunny, and we went outside for about an hour. The snow was very powdery, but it wasn't wet, so we couldn't get it to stick together to build a snowman. However, snow angels are now covering our back yard! :) Sweetness :)

Madilyn played in "Grampy's House," as she so fondly calls it. It's her playhouse that Grampy built for her.

We sat inside, and she said, "Mom, these chairs are for the grandparents," whatever that means! haha Grandparents, when you come visit, that's where you can sit. Inside Grampy's house :) Madilyn said so.

It's nice to have such sunny days this year. It's really been a nice winter so far.

Spring in January

How is it possible that winter hasn't already happened in Erie this year? It's the first part of February...and it reminds me of last May. I'm confused.

I was geared up for winter this year. And, I mean GEARED UP :) Two new pairs of warm boots, a handful of new sweaters, homemade mittens for myself...even our "all weather" floor mat has been at our front door since November because last year, winter hit me like a brick in the face.

Last winter, I remember feeling like there was 2 feet of snow on the ground the majority of the time. I remember telling my Texas friends that it snows at least once a day, whether it accumulates or not.

This winter, much different. Cameron has only shoveled snow 3 times! Earlier this week, the last day of January, the high was 59 degrees! We were outside all day long! Not that I'm complaining. I could use a winter like this...Madilyn rode her tricycle (my old tricycle!) for over an hour! We took a nice long walk! And, we played at the park!!! Totally fantastic for the end of January!

But, it's still kind of wierd :) I feel like I had to go through major heart changes to be ready for another Pennsylvania winter, and now it's not here. It's crazy the things that can affect your mood/attitude.

I've grown up in TEXAS. Land of blue skies and wide open spaces...and crazy weather. One day, 16 degrees and a foot of snow...the next 3 days, 65 degrees and sunny skies. Seriously crazy, but WONDERFUL.

God has really taught me over our time here that I cannot let circumstances dictate my mood. I have to CHOOSE peace. I have to CHOOSE love. I have to CHOOSE joy. It's not always natural...but it can be supernatural, by the power of the Holy Spirit that lives within me.

A verse that I've clung to lately has been:

"I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13