Tidbits from a mommy about red barns, porches, family, and more.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Stepping Stones

I guess I started this blog a while ago thinking I was going to write in it. And though I have not really written on it until now, I am thankful for that. My perspective on life is much different these days than even a year ago. But isn't that the case for so many of us. We live life and then something life-changing happens, and our world is rocked. In the course of a year, new paths are being walked and life is different. As I write this, Andy and I are preparing to take one of the biggest leaps of faith we have taken. We are preparing a move from a city that we have known as home for most of our lives. We have longed to go off on an adventure of being in a new town for a very long time. We have schemed and brainstormed and researched but we have been shown in more ways than one, that for whatever reason, it was not yet time. And now, I sit reflectively thinking about why the time wasn't right, I see God's hand. Upon reflection-comes clarity right?
So is it time? Time for the adventure of a new home, new town, new stores, new grocery store navigating, new friends, new school, new job, new EVERYTHING. Yes, it is time. In His timing, God has shown us each tiny step of the way. Our new adventure of Andy returning to school for his doctorate is well on its way. It has not been in my timing, that is for sure. The lessons of having patience and holding plans with an open hand are not yet mastered...and maybe one day this side of heaven I will get closer. It is a good thing my salvation isn't because of what I've done.

Before I get too sidetracked, which I am very good at doing, I better get back to my point. So, because of God directing each step, our move has taught us so much about God's blessings, goodness, and mercy. Mercy to see my dad and be with him even as he exhaled here on earth and inhaled in heaven(borrowing from Ronnie Stevens here). Blessings of friends that have helped me start to work through grief by meeting me for coffee, praying over my sweet daddy, running with me, and listening to me ramble. Mercy as we sold our house in a market where we had to just trust Him. (Sadly, I was such a doubting Thomas the whole time!) We were blown away by His plan for how our house would sell. And Goodness in knowing that we are provided for finacially next year. It isn't like God wasn't providing for us before, it is just that God has amazingly surprised us with how He will provide for us the next year.

We are off in the morning on this grand adventure...of house hunting and church visiting.

Let the blogging begin.
Joanna