A crazy evening

I think I will add to my gratitude list from last time. I have had several opportunities to get frustrated this weekend. But I also have had sweet moments of remembering the truth--His mercy covers so much.

This is what I am thankful for tonight:

• My baby girl is sleeping sweetly on my lap (even if she won't sleep in bed!) 
• Ezra made it to the toilet when he threw up. 
• He praised Jesus so genuinely when he started to feel better. 
• I still get to read Winnie the Pooh aloud. 
• Oliver showed true kindness to his brother and was helpful to me. 
• Unexpected time with God's word. 
• I definitely have not been bored with drew gone tonight! 

The song playing now is called "Words to Build a Life On" by Mike Crawford. It's about the beatitudes and the way God's kingdom is often upside down. I'm praying and believing that God is actively working in me as I practice letting many things go right now--making things new and beautiful and whole. He loves me. He really does. I am glad about that.

Practicing gratitude

Look, my eye opens well and is more pink than red!

One month ago, I fell and both sprained my ankle and broke my foot. Three days later at my regular eye exam, my doctor discovered I had a detached retina. The next day, I had major eye surgery. I haven't done much else since. :)

I want to say I've spent lots of time reflecting and have deep thoughts about this season in my life. I want to share all the ways I've grown. I can't because I don't really know yet. I trust God knows what he is doing and that he is strong enough to care for me and my family. Our little family is learning Romans 5:1-5 together. The Message version is my favorite. I love knowing that God is there, wanting me to step into his grace when things get tough. I need to know that he takes trouble and builds good things with it.

I have been trying to practice gratitude when I start to get grumpy about what I can't do. Here's a short list of what I'm thankful for:

• drew....he really has been superman: parenting, eye-dropping, cleaning, shuttling and even braving the grocery store on my behalf.
• our parents--especially the fun summer memories they are giving the boys
• that Lois can't crawl yet
• drop-ins by sweet neighbors. I have definitely not felt lonely.
• MEALS!
• amazon prime :)
• good friends
• that I can see functionally now, and that I will eventually see clearly
• that bones heal
• my porch swing

I'm healing well and expect to be out and about soon. It's a good feeling. I'm starting to think about the fun summer things I want to do in the weeks to come!