Madeline

Path of Doors

I'd like to think I've matured, if only a little bit, when it comes to perspective.

There are certainly times in my life where I've experienced disappointment. Why did things not go the way I planned -- or prayed?

In the moment, disappointment can take over, quickly becoming consuming if left unchecked with a healthy dose of perspective. Granted, it sometimes takes a few years to see the "point" of the disappointment.

Looking back over my life, it is easy to see a carved path -- a path that would have looked vastly different if not intersected by disappointment. It is a breathtaking journey and clearly not blazed by me.

For me, these moments of not getting what I wanted is God's way of saying, "Child, I have something way better for you!" And He is right; never have I been disappointed by God's love and discernment.

How do you know when God doesn't want something for you? A metaphor people sometimes use is one of God shutting a "door." He doesn't shut them all -- there are certainly times when God leaves the door wide open. We must first pray and then get up and head toward that door to see if it is the right one for us. And that takes work -- and an amount of "risk"!

So when Chip and I were met with an unexpected shut door this week, it was hard not to be consumed with disappointment. I mean, we thought this door was wide open, ours for the taking.

Not so. And it stings a little. But after a shed tear or two, I felt a wave of comfort. Without a shadow of a doubt, God is in control and knows what is best for us. And whatever that choice is, it will be what we need.

After a little dusting off, we are ready to get back up and try again.

And would you believe a door has been recently opened? Could this be the one?

I'll keep you posted.

Three Days In

Happy 2013!

New Year's Resolution: Get my blog going again. I think I can handle that.

The past month has been a blur, but there is much to talk about and many pictures to post. I'll get right on that.

In the meantime, here's a funny that happened today.

Abby and William were playing remarkably well today, an unfortunate rare occurrence. They proudly ran into my bathroom, and Abby announced that she dressed her brother. "Doesn't he look handsome?" she asked.

"Yes!" I said, and I followed it up with, "It makes Mama's heart so happy to see her children playing so well together."

They ran off and returned a moment or two later. Abby had brushed William's hair, and he looked very pleased with her work.

"Mommy, your stomach happy?" William asked.

What? Is my stomach happy? I tried to process the question, wondering the rationale behind the inquiry.

"I think he meant to say, 'Is your heart happy,' " Abby clarified.

I laughed. Of course that's what he meant.

"Yes, baby. Mommy's heart is very happy."

We all grinned.

Intermission

Apologies, dear readers, for my extended absence. I've got lots to share and talk about.

To be fair, I logged on a couple weeks ago with the intention of posting some photos, but I was shocked to find out I had reached my maximum storage space. But for a nominal fee of $2.99 a month, I can "rent" more. Chip said I can do it, although I've seriously considered starting another blog to avoid this charge.

At any rate, I will be back soon, in one form or another, armed with stories and pictures.

Fire Truck Park

We discovered a neat little park yesterday, so William, Maddie and I went back to check it out today. We had a picnic lunch, climbed on play sets, and, most memorably, played fire fighter. William and I answered "fire calls" to get a cat out of a tree, put out a forest fire, put out a house fire, and ride in a parade. I called him "Captain," and he called me "Captain Mommy." It was a good morning.

Everything really is bigger in Texas. Look at this HUGE acorn!

My Little Gymnast

Abby started her gymnastics class tonight. She had a blast!

Bay Dreamin'

Maddie and William discovered the fun of the bay window today.