Renewal

Don't you just love time away from the routine? It's a perfect time to reflect, to renew my mind, and to focus on what is good. Last week we were able to enjoy a week at Lake Norman with the extended family. My cousin Alison got married on Saturday...a perfect day...a beautiful ceremony...lots of good memories made.

As I was reflecting on our time, I was reminded of all the amazing blessings in my life.

• My husband is such a example to me. Mark is my best friend, my stability, my hero. He spurs me on to be better, to live deeper, to be me. His life has been turned upside down through this whole journey, but he is peace-filled and optimistic about what lies ahead. I am in awe of how he lives each day...fully and completely present.

• John, my 9 year old little man, models his daddy everyday. I love watching him mature and change. He is responsible, caring, and fun; patient with his sister, meticulous with his school work, and passionate about sports, particularly football. I am proud of him and humbled to be his mother.

• Elizabeth...hmmm...love. That's what she is. Hugs, kisses, words, surprises, and smiles. She is not afraid to share her feelings or to express them to anyone. She teaches me to let go, to be carefree, and to enjoy the moment. Everyday she makes me smile. Her 7 year old perspective on life is worth considering...and living.

• Our week at Lake Norman was spent partly with my parents and my siblings and their families. I am amazed that despite how different we are, we really do enjoy spending time together: laughing, shopping, playing games, creating, being. My nieces and nephews are positive influences; they are polite and fun. We all enjoyed our week...without an ounce of tension.



• I am blessed with friends who speak truth and who do the journey with me. Though I desperately miss my girls from Bible study, I was reminded that God is doing something NEW. I continue to pray for friendships and opportunities do 'dig deep' with others.


• My greatest blessing is the grace God extends to me everyday. His mercies are new every morning. His faithfulness never ends. He never gives up on me. He wants MORE for me...more than I can even imagine for myself. He is patient. He loves me...despite all my flaws and weaknesses.
  

I have so much to be thankful for, so as I practice my "one word" WAIT, I choose to focus on the good things in my life instead of things I don't have or want to have NOW. It's a matter of perpective, isn't it? So take a few minutes, renew your mind. I'm sure you'll be reminded of all the blessings in your life too.