WHERE ARE YOU TODAY?

DARE TO 'COME AWAKE'

HOPE IN THE HURT

I've been sitting here staring at this computer for longer than I care to admit. I'm at a loss for words. My heart is just so heavy.

Scott's friend, Kris Walters died last night after a car hit him head on as he was riding his motorcycle in Parkersburg. He was only 30, 30!, with a wife and two very little kids.

Horrible things happen every day. I know this...I do. GC is still dealing with the terrible heartache from the death of another great guy who left behind his wife and young kids less than a year ago. It is all just horrible. Overwhelmingly horrible. I can feel myself wanting to curl up with my husband and kids and just stay locked inside where all the horrible can't get to us. But, I realize that trying to hide from even the possibility of bad things will not give me or my family the peace I desire for us in this world.

True peace can only come from knowing and believing God is in control. That is where we can find hope while living in this suffering world...in Him. "And, the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" Philippians 4:7

Following is a passage from Choosing to See written by Mary Beth Chapman (wife of Christian singer Steven Curtis Chapman) about her journey of struggle and hope after the death of her daughter, Maria.

"...I am sorry for anyone reading this who is suffering...loss and suffering are hard and very unpredictable. I still trust in the One who gave us Maria, but I am also a person who trusts while doubting at the same time. I am just being honest. I pray to God that He would build my trust and that my doubting would turn to rejoicing in time."

I love her honesty..."trust while doubting at the same time". I think its OK to doubt...to question...to seek understanding in the hard times. But it is absolutely critical to TRUST the entire time questions are swirling. You must hold tight to the truth that God is working all things for the good (Romans 8:28). And, it must be remembered that God works in "all things". Evil is prevalent in our fallen world. God is not working to make us happy but to fulfill His purpose. The likelihood is that we will not understand the hurt that happens in this world. But God wants to give us hope and peace in Him!

"but, those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31

MY TWO FAVORITE GUYS

GRANDMA'S NAIL SALON

WHAT A GREAT DAY!

The day isn't over...but, I am exhausted from watching all the action so I came inside to rest. The computer says its 84*. Yes, 84*! It is at least warm enough to warrant the girls finding their swim suits and playing in water. At least that is what they told us!

Riggs thought this water bug was great fun until...

Brooklyn turned it and sprayed him in the face. He was very much NOT a fan of that!

Alex tried counting rocks with him so he didn't have to play in the water...

but, he talked Grandma into walking back down to the 'bug'.

With another round of water to his face, Riggs sat down to talk with Scott about how hard it is being ONE.

And after discussing all of his options, he decided the rocks were the safest spot to play.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RIGGS!

I don't know how it happened but a whole year has gone by?!?!...

Riggs is ONE!

Brooklyn and Alex worked hard on his birthday sign

and said 'Happy Birthday' with Backyardigan masks

He invited a couple of his buddies over

Family time at the park to start the celebration

Sisters and their brother...love, love, love!

Alex, being the good sister she is, explained to Riggs that this is NOT the way to go down the slide!

He took his sister's advice to be safe.

1st official 'supported' 3-point stance...working on technique already

Riggs with his best buddy!

On the move...always!

Trampoline time before dinner

Mom prepping her taco station. Yum!!! Sorry you missed it, Dad!

All done...WHERE'S THE CAKE???

CAKE

Pablo...for Riggs

Cake for everyone else

Happy 1st Birthday, Buddy...enjoy YOUR cake

Presents after bath time

Riggs got a new blue car...Alex went and found her old pink car to join in for a ride

D I Y , MR. RIGGS

This is what I am normally watching from 'my chair'...mom bonding with Riggs over a bottle several times a day.

But, sometimes...Grandma is called in 3 different directions and this little guy is left to DIY. He loves the attention from Grandma but all is good as long as he has his bottle.