Thankful List ~ August 2014

August 2014 Thankful List

As another month has passed us by we would love to share with you many of the things we are thankful for.

Josiah turned three on August 3rd. It’s so hard to believe my little boy is three already. Josiah is one of a kind. He is my energetic, athletic, cuddlier, who is full of charisma. More often than not you can find him smiling and laughing while playing a game with his sister, dancing, or making some kind of music of his own. We celebrated this year, since it was his Golden Birthday (3rd on the 3rd) with a Jake and the Never land Pirates Party. Everyone had a great time but I think our buccaneer was the happiest of all.

This month we took the kids bowling for the first time. I had gotten coupons for a few free games and we had a great time. Josiah rolled his ball with such finesse that a few times I thought it was literally going to stop mid-way down the lane. Addi and Josiah both had a great celebration dances for the few occasions when they knocked down a few pins (and yes, we were playing with bumpers).

We are so thankful that we are far enough along in the pregnancy that we could announce it to all of our friends and family. We have recently had another appointment and were so grateful for the sound of a healthy heartbeat.

We were able to take a trip to Georgia and visit with family. On our way we stopped in Charlotte to visit some dear friends and see their new home. While we were in Georgia we created some very sweet memories of the kids with family that we typically only get to see once or twice a year. One of my favorite traditions is having “coffee” on my Aunt Dede’s back porch. The kids sit and cuddle with my Aunt, my mom, and my Nana while sipping on their hot chocolate in the early morning hours. The kids also have a tradition of jumping on the trampoline while Nana sings her made up “Bouncy, Bouncy, BOOM” song. Nana also taught them how to put on a “talent show.” She would introduce them, they would pick a song to sing, and then they would take a bow. Josiah was absolutely hilarious because he would bow so low his head would touch the floor. It was an absolute joy seeing the kids play with their relatives. In addition it was such a blessing to see the reactions of those who were excited about our pregnancy. Specifically, my mom, Nana, Josh’s mom, and Josh’s sister were the most thrilled.

I was also reminded this month about the gift of life. The Lord is the author and sustainer of life and the one who can give it or take it away. My grandmother Patsy passed away this month. She was a remarkable woman who was loved by many. I had not seen her in a long time but her impact and influence on my life will never be forgotten. I was extremely sad when I heard the news that she had passed away and unfortunately it was not possible for me to go to the funeral. I am thankful for God’s comfort and also thankful for a husband who didn’t mind my many spontaneous tears over the past couple weeks. On a brighter note, God blessed two ladies in my small group and one of my cousins with new babies. I’ve been overwhelmed with the absolute cuteness of each of their kids and I can’t wait to spend more time with them getting some sweet cuddles.

We officially started homeschool this month. Although it’s been challenging to plan for, the kids are loving it and I think I might be learning more than they are.

Finally, after much prayer and counsel we decided to move forward with pursuing our next step in our journey. Josh put out a few resumes for full time ministry positions and we’ve had a great response so far. There are several churches that are pursuing him and we greatly desire wisdom and discernment about any future possibilities.