Today we went to Aunt BB's house to paint with the cousins. It wasn't long before everyone was a mess and running through the sprinkler. I can't help but think of how all the little girls look up to the big cousins. You probably have no idea the influence and impact you have on these precious girls, but you do. It really is a blessing to grow up so close to family. I pray you will never take this for granted.
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The Joy Project
As parents we see the best and worst in our children, but love them more knowing both. I would never want to imply that any you are without fault, because we are all struggling in our own unique ways. But, as I watch Big Sissy there is something so special and so beautiful about the way you treat your baby sister. There is a patience you show. You already sees the differences in your personalities and loves and embraces them. You includes her and even invites her to play most of the time. You are the big sister I wish I would have always been to my two sisters. I am continuously grateful to the lessons God is teaching me through each of you.
The Frozen soundtrack is still on repeat at our house and there is always the fight over who will be Elsa.
This will be a day that I remember forever. We went to the Springs today as a family for the first time. I loved experiencing this with each of you. The water was chilly, but beautiful and crystal clear. We saw a few manatees, including a baby. Bubby and Daddy went on a canoe ride together while we swam in the Springs. They enjoyed seeing the nature and animals. We were all sad when the rain headed our way and it was time to go home. Well, most of us were sad. When you asked Baby Sissy what her favorite part of the day was she quickly said nothing. I am not for sure if the fish or cold water bothered her the most. Hopefully next time she will give it another try.
I love that even with five and a half years between you, you share a beautiful bond already.
Today we spent a couple hours at one of our favorite locations. It was extra special because Daddy was with us. We found lots of shark's teeth, played at the park, and ate yummy blue ice cream. I love any time together as a family.
I was asked this week to give some words that would describe this season of life.
Grateful and fulfilled are two that came to mind.
Daddy and I have been married for almost 15 years. We have spent our summers moving every few years for most of our marriage. This week we returned from vacation. It always feels so good to come home. I couldn't help but think that this was the summer we could have moved away. There’s such a peace I feel right now knowing this is home. This place, this season of life, is so special. It is so unique to any other time. I am grateful.
I am at a place in life where I truly feel fulfilled. Not looking or wanting. Life is not always easy, but I have found that even on the hardest of days there is Light to see and feel. I thank God for this because it isn't the circumstances of life that are filling me, it is Him.
What a gift it is to have all of your cousins living so close. Days like this are certainly treasures.
I will never forget when you wrote these words on the porch last year. They are from a portion of Hillsong United's song entitled Ocean.
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders Let me walk upon the waters Wherever You would call me Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander And my faith will be made stronger In the presence of my Savior
When I saw this picture, I immediately thought of those words. My prayer is for all of us to live these words. I want to trust Jesus in all circumstances. To be bold, to listen to Him and follow.
Today when we woke up I saw you sitting in bed with tears in your eyes. You did not want to say goodbye to this special place. I can understand 100% how you feel. It is always hard to pack up and leave. The week we spend here each year is so special.
It was such a gift to see the freedom and excitement through your eyes this week as you all experienced the Gulf. You knew our time at the beach was only for one week, and you wanted to soak in every moment. I was reminded that I want to live my life daily with this same joy and anticipation.
These words from the back of Passion, a book by Louie Giglio are such a great reminder for all of us.
“We only get one brief shot at life, so we must make it count.”
A year ago I captured you in this same location. As I look at this picture, I keep thinking how so much is the same a year later; yet so much is different. So grateful to experience all of it. So blessed to know love like this. I am so blessed to be your mama.
You have such a sweet soul. You are so tenderhearted; so full of love and compassion. I pray that no one will ever crush your spirit. I pray you will always love others with the same passion you do now. I love you Bubby. No words could ever tell you how much.
The night we arrived at the beach. Your first swim in the Gulf. I want to remember this joy forever
Our trip to Longboat Key each year is one that is treasured by all. A week spent with your cousins and grandparents at the Gulf is something you all love so much. I love this family tradition myself and am so grateful for it.