good times in o-nine.

I cant believe the year is over.

we were so richly blessed.

and you were too. I hope you know.

so many milestones. days. moments.

sweet lila's arrival.

I could never have dreamt up something as sweet as her.

the day before she was born I got a day of just me and my little man.

we went to the beach and played for hours.

it was pure magic.

the night before dads surgery was another.

God brought us so close.

to each other.

to him.

we sat in our little home for hours listening to

a favorite musician who dropped by to play.

and of course our lot.

the dreams.

the construction.

our home.

we are so grateful to God.

my life. my family. a sweet reality.

here's to o-nine.

a very merry.

this christmas was very merry.

tom got my great uncle ted's gun. a hunting hat. a book of short stories. and some reese's chocolate.

trent got a teepee. a slinky. a kaleidoscope. some new racecars.

cowboy boots. superhero cape. a harmonica. and a gumby.

lila got a miss mousie. and three new ornaments:

an angel, a bird, and a locket with her initials.

I received a handmade address stamp for our new house,

a silver frame for my bedside table,

and the most beautiful dress from my most wonderful hubs.

but spending the holiday together was the best.

very merry. xoxo

ho ho ho.

yes lila, there is a santa. 

(note: this was all the hubs idea. how jolly is he?)

the sweet life.

the children were nestled all snug in their beds

while visions of sugarplums danced in their heads

a taste-tester elf.

 and frinkles for our christmas cookies.

these babes are sweeter than sugar.

pinching myself.

the Lord is my Shepherd.

not our favorite day in these neck of the woods.

but

nonetheless

one of those days I don't ever want to forget.

Mom found out today that she has cancer in her uterus.

It's one of those moments where time just

stands still.

Mom is my rock.

My best friend.

My Mom!

She kept telling me not to be scared as I cried.

As much as cancer makes my stomach hurt,

I love the feeling of knowing

beyond a doubt

 that we rest in Gods hands.

He will keep us.

and times like this are the best reminder.

To put all your trust in God.

He is all you need.

To hold your family close.

To let the dishes sit dirty.

To hold your baby till she falls asleep.

We are reminded, once again, of how we should be living.

Of our purpose.

And how mighty and loving our God is.

Please keep Mom in your prayers.

God is great and we have much to be thankful for.

As for you, cancer, prepare for a major butt whoopin'

 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, 

"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11