Coffee for Breakfast

I'm adding a link to a wonderful new blog I discovered. My husband and I attended a marriage retreat last weekend. It was the Extreme Marriage Makeover Homeschool Edition. It was awesome. The speakers were Steve & Jane Lambert and Jay & Heidi St. John. The following link is Heidi's blog. Confessions of a Homeschool Mom Here is the link to the marriage retreat: http://www.extrememarriagemakeover.com/

I had an unusual feeling come over me this morning as I sat having my first cup of coffee. I was sitting on my dark quiet back patio when I first noticed "it". Before my mind could think the complete thought, "What is this strange feeling?", I had a sudden revelation. The stranger that was visiting me was my old friend, Peace. My family has been through a trying time lately. Stress has seemed to pile on. I have been in a state of not being sure I could survive one more moment. I have felt like a hamster in a cage. I have turned left, right, backwards, and ran in circles. I have been in a fog of confusion that could be likened to a world-class corn maze. But today, My Savior showed up! I know He was there all along. I was just so busy turning every direction but up, that I couldn't seem to find Him. As I sat with tears streaming, thanking God for His presence, He spoke words of wisdom into my heart. "Take joy in the small things in life." I have neglect...

Well, crocheting is going well. I am so glad since it is a proven stress-reducer. I made myself practice all the basic stitches for several days, then I've been off and running (or rather crocheting) ever since. I began a baby blanket a few days ago. It is so cute. I am over half finished. I will post pictures later. I also just found out that we are expecting 2 new great nieces (or nephews!), and my best friend is expecting also. I know what their baby gifts will be!!!

Disney Princesses Cardinal Family (2nd place) Horse in the Wind (1st place) Trotting Buckeye Rearing Mustang (3rd place) Paint Colt Resting Our three youngest daughters participated in an art show/contest at a local county fair. This is a family tradition of several years. They save art projects all year and pick their favorites.The titles are listed below each drawing. We were very proud of them.

I've decided to learn (or re-learn) to crochet. I have been taught or shown how before, but it just never "stuck". This time I am learning from a beginner book that enables me to learn at my own pace. This seems to be a better method for me. I can refer back to the pictures if I forget what I am doing! Of course I would love to just take off on a really cool project, post a picture of it, and be very proud of myself. I have decided to take a more logical approach though. Practice, practice, practice. A really cool side-note: Three of my daughters decided to learn along with me. From my understanding, I really need to learn five basic stiches. I think I have found a new hobby.

This week did not start out "picture perfect". Not even just a little "normal". I would have to say that this week hasn't even been pleasant! Our prodigal son returned home early Monday morning. As wonderful as that was, our schedule was just a little turned-upside-down-and -rattled. My heart rejoiced while it ached all at the same time. Only God can ordain such a precious moment. Tuesday, I realized the enormity of prayer that lay before me. I know that God will answer and I am filled with hope. Anxiety is slightly trying to creep in. I tell myself, "I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength." Wednesday, I start to feel tired. Does anyone even see how tough this is? Forget housework, I have to find a way into the heart of my son! I can't read his mind but his attitude doesn't seem right. Thursday is the peak of this roller-coaster week. Nothing seems to have been accomplished. I now wonder if we are travelling backward instead ...