Hidden Blessings!

Do you know that God answers prayer? I was told once to be careful when talking to the Lord because He will surely give us the desires of our heart. It was a funny statement to me at the time; almost as if saying "be careful what you wish for..." however, I understand it all much more these days. Just the other day I wrote a blog about how I realized that the kids were only little once. That I needed to enjoy them and spend time soaking up their little personalities; frustrating or not.

For almost 4 days we have not been able to be in the living room in our house due to the cold weather and lack of a heater in that particular room. We have TV's in other rooms of the house (toy room and our bedroom) but the kids have their movies on in the toy room and I would never want to be in our room just to watch TV. So my point is...I really believe that the Lord is saying to me, "slow down. let me take away these distractions so that you can focus on what really matters."--or something of the sorts. I know that He saw my desire to spend more time with them. He is also the Lord of my heart and knows me better than I know myself. I really believe it was going to take something slightly drastic to open my eyes to the fact that there were far too many times that I was saying, "go play in the other room, kids" or "I just want to watch this one show and then I'll play..." As if I deserved to sit and have "me" time when I could be spending time with them. So foolish and selfish at times.

For the past 3 days I have done nothing but play with my little blessings! They have still been busy, and at times wild. However, I feel MUCH less frustrated with them. It's as if I was frustrated because they were distracting me from doing what I wanted to do. Can you imagine?? Now that my eyes are opened to how much time I really was spending in that room with the TV on, I literally dont care if we ever go back in there again. Sure, it's nice to watch a show or 2 when the kids go to bed and Daniel and I have nothing else to do...but it's just not worth taking time away from being with the kids. I must admit that I really didnt spend a whole lot of time watching TV, just because there is much work to be done in this house on most days. But, it was enough to where I notice a change in my attitude and perspective especially with the children. It's refreshing to enjoy them this way!

Anyway, I just wanted to testify to the fact that God hears our silent cries. Even if I never came right out and said "Lord, help me not be distracted by useless things so that I can find joy in my kids again..."--He knew that's what I needed. I am so thankful for a God that cares so much! I love being a mother because I know He is guiding me and teaching me daily how to do it better. Everyday I am learning how to raise these kids in a much more Godly way. I fall short alot. But I am learning and for that I am grateful. What a great lesson and what a great blessing in such an otherwise crummy circumstance (aka freezing cold room that we cant even be in...haha). But, I'll take it if it means enjoying my days and enjoying the kids. There isnt as much noise. There isnt as much craziness. Life, in all of it's simplicity, is just beautiful. Without the mess that we sometimes make it. What a great relief to know that I can be in a place where I am aware of what God is doing in my life. Thank you Lord for the ability to sense you moving! I love you Lord!!!

Tomorrow's Christmas Eve. Let the business begin! I hope everyone stays warm, safe and enjoys the next few days. I'll post soon with pictures, and stories from Christmas here in our home! We love you all!!! Oh, and Rachel & Amos are traveling home to Maryland tomorrow. Please keep them in your prayers!!!