Independence Day

I didn't take one picture.

It's ok though.  The memories are stamped in indelible ink.  Right there.  In my brain for forever.

When you think you'll never have this moment again, you pay closer attention.  You hold that six year old nephew on your lap and breathe in his sweet aroma.  You tickle that three year old niece when she begs, just to savor her giggle.  And when that precious one - the one who almost wasn't - when she wants to dance... You dance!  

Oh, when they grow up and realize the songs they learned are from the 80's, we'll get some razzing then.  But there will also be a special place in their hearts for it - tied to happy memories of momma and aunts and grandma dancing in the living room.  Daddy and grandpa watching on - shaking heads in amusement at the silliness.  

It's locked in tight.  Hard to think of leaving it.  Of missing the moments of life for two years, maybe more.  

But then I think of those who know nothing of the joy or the satisfaction that comes from knowing Christ, and I can't stay here all selfish.  

I'm called to go.  No turning back.  My heart knows the price.  So I soak it in.  Savor the moment.  Prepare my heart to share with others what TRUE freedom looks like.

Happy Independence Day!

Sister Weekend

We don't get to do it very often - gathering as sisters - and not just for dinner or a quick rendezvous....  but a for-real, bonifide sister weekend.  You know, the kind where everyone sleeps at the same house - and mornings are spent in pj's with cups of coffee in hand. 

Rah-Rah's place is big enough to house us  all - and it certainly is a bonus that she lives 30 minutes from the beach! 

Life seems to be passing quickly.  Baby boys are kindergartners this year, baby girls are growing right behind them.  It is easy to get caught up in the busy-ness of life and miss the opportunities to make memories.  But, we did that this weekend.  Even as I sit here typing, I am savoring the sounds of children's conversations; relishing in the happy place of being in community with sisters who have shared so many adventures and experiences with me.

A few of the highlights:

• Craft time at the table 
• Blue finger nails for niece and aunties
• Gathering round the piano for some singing of hymns (extra or missed flats and all! My piano playing is a bit rusty!) 
• Two sopranos and two altos... sweet harmony!  
• Sound of Music songs at the top of lungs (and ranges!!)
• Miniature Batman & Robin's with clothes-pinned towel capes
• Waves crashing, children splashing and sand galore!
• Aunt Rah-Rah's famous waffles.
• Reveling in the miracle of a teeny preemie now 12 lbs big

Blessings galore - I bless the Lord for this sweet time!