“It’s been a while…” seems to be the way I want to start these posts lately. Usually I just keep that sentiment to myself, frustrated that I can’t seem to find the time to post more.
The truth is, right now, I don’t quite know what to write about when given the opportunity to finally sit down at my computer for any substantial amount of time. Seems to me like everything design-related just doesn’t seem important when faced with the devastation and sadness our country has been experiencing.
Most of my content has nothing to do with design or decorating or art or whatever you might be expecting when you come here to the LBD blog, but I do have lots of ideas and plans for those kinds of posts. Recently, I’ve wanted to write about life. And faith. And offer some encouragement and hope…
So today, while grieving for the victims and those suffering following the tragic shooting in Las Vegas, saddened by the devastation in Puerto Rico, Texas, and the many areas affected by hurricanes, and frustrated by the toxic political climate our country is experiencing, I just want to say…I’m still here.
I’m a little overwhelmed with life in general and, as much as I hate to use the word when describing my family, we are just busy. This church planting stuff is a lot and requires almost all of Joe’s time (literally) and a good bit of mine. The kids have their activities and school work (not to mention all the fundraisers going on). I’m trying to keep us organized, the laundry cleaned and the house in order (which apparently is an impossible feat), bills paid and a host of other things under the COO job description. {Note: Joe’s been out of town recently and I’ve actually cooked – like real meals following recipes?! Have I mentioned before how thankful I am that is not usually on my list of responsibilities? Let it be known. So grateful for a husband that does that.}
The fall months on my calendar are filling in. We have some exciting things coming up and one of those is this week: the Catalyst conference in Atlanta. Catalyst is a Christian leadership conference started by Andy Stanley (of North Point fame). Talk about a mountaintop experience, it is truly the spiritual awakening, the soul revival my whole being is craving right now. So cannot wait.
Since my last post, we celebrated Hannah’s 8th birthday…
The weather messed up our plans. We were going to surprise her with a trip to the Disney waterparks. Then we were going to go to Savannah. Then it was decided for us; we had to stay home instead. But Meme came to town and we had a fun weekend.
Cannot believe my girl is 8. I wrote my yearly letter to her, which always brings a crazy mix of emotions. {The first few I posted on my blog, but have since started handwriting them.} Love my Monkey.
We welcomed college football season and took on a hurricane (Irma, thankfully after she weakened considerably)…
Joseph was quite the little helper, as he cleaned up our yard and two of our neighbors. Cutie.
We started rec sports (Hannah, soccer and Joseph, baseball) and while very fun, I’m glad they only last two months! Hannah is also taking dance and piano lessons, both one day a week. Joseph is loving Cub Scouts and is the cutest Tiger I’ve ever seen.
Yep, some days can get kinda crazy but, overall, it’s good. Trying to be joyful and make the most of what is a busy, but fun, time. All the while clinging to those I love the most and being grateful for life. Grateful for countless blessings.
As this post started with a fair amount of uncertainty, and even hesitation on what to write, I do want to end with some words from my devotion time this morning. Y’all know I love the First5 app and find their studies to be a great way to start my quiet time. In light of current circumstances, this is a timely reminder and is just so right.
We have endured much as a country in the last month…or year. As I said in my IG post:
God ALONE can restore us, our country, our world.
He knows where we are and what we need.
It starts at home.
Let’s shift our focus up.
Redemption is His.
Blessings and love,
L
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