In the last year I've learned that I can no longer plan ahead, not even a few days. I've learned that I need to write all our appointments in pencil, whether they be doctor visits, tennis practice or church activities. Between the weather cancelling events, unexpected illnesses and just plain fatigue on my part, plans change. That use to bother me, because it was just one more thing outside of my control ... really ... one more thing that I can't have a handle on? But, I'm finding out that this is the best way to learn to TRUST God, when you don't know what the future will bring, even if it's just tomorrow and not "years" that define "future" .... I'm not exactly "comfortable" living one day at a time, but I'm getting there and I'm finding that the more I "let go" of what it is I want to control, the less stress I feel and peace invades my life a little bit more.
So, what has happened in the last seven months? The kids survived their first semester of public high school. They're learning how to interact with people who have different ways of thinking, or believing, than they do. We became grandparents for the first time. Our grandson brings a new dimension of precious love and laughter into our lives. I only wish we lived closer so that we could see him and his parents more often. Charley's new treatment plan did not work, so he began another one which seems to have more effective blood results. My cousins and Uncle, from Ohio, blessed us with a visit during Thanksgiving. We added another dog to the family. Macey is a sweetheart and great company for Delilah. We entered the world of sports, with our exchange student playing soccer and Donovan playing tennis. Donovan also picked up the trumpet, so we're back to attending school concerts, which we haven't done since Joey played the tuba in high school. I joined the youth leaders at our church for a study in "true love waits" and have really enjoyed getting to know these wonderful young people. I also stepped into the role of team leader for the third Monday night meal ministry that our church serves to the community. We did some respite fostering where we enjoyed having a lively 16 month old for a weekend. Most days I need a nap to keep up with all these activities. *smile*
We recently decided that it would be in our best interest to sell our house and move into something that would be more affordable for all of us. Our number one priority is God's will, and where that leads is really unknown to us, at this time. We hope we will be staying in our present town, with the kids attending the same school and close to our church. Ideally, I would like for Mandy and her roommate to remain with us wherever we go, but whether or not that's God's will remains to be seen. I try not to get anxious over the thought of them not being with us ... that's just borrowing trouble .... and not taking it "one day at a time."
