I want to remember the smell of my baby’s breath and the soft contour of her toddler face, because I was there. I want to remember the ramblings of tales, and the twinkle of son’s eyes, because I saw him. I want my pre-teen beauty to have the confidence to tell me of her crisis, that she has nothing to wear, and know I care, because I listened. I want to laugh quiet-loud, while all else is asleep, with my night-owl eldest beauty, knowing those times will come fewer and farther between, because she is soon going to be spreading her wings.

Everyday I am learning more and more how to truly live. I am learning…

My hours and days should reflect my priorities,

and all the different parts of my life align with my core values,

in the same direction, and that direction is

pointed toward my life’s God given purpose.

and Counting Gifts…

Still much more to be thankful for, and I will be adding those gifts shortly. I have been busily and happily getting us all prepared for vacation, and we leave in just a few hours, 3am EST, to drive to North Carolina from Florida. So, although my gifts are written in my journal — my journal is packed away.

634. I will say now, I have been most humbled and thankful for the Presence of God that seems to be hovering near these days. My heart is brought low, and I worship, broken — but a heart contrite, the Lord will never despise.