Blessings and Raindrops

seeking joy in the midst of the ordinary

at the edge of the sea once more.

We have all fallen hard for this place by the sea. This is our third year staying in this same home with it’s gorgeous views and steps down to the white sandy beach.

That first year here, we were in the thick of the seemingly never-ending wait for our referral…

{Before we talk about anything else, let’s just stop right now and discuss how teeny tiny my boys were… I had NO idea. I thought they were so big. They were just babies. Look at Ben’s curls. Oh my heart. Two years have passed in a BLINK}.

Last year, we arrived here anxious for Sylvie to come home. Hoping and praying that it would be soon.

“When we booked this vacation almost a year ago, we were certain that S would be home and this would be our first vacation together as a family of five. We were apprehensive about booking because we had no idea exactly when she would be home and if it would be too soon for a trip to the beach.


To be honest, it hasn’t been easy to be here now without her. I had so many images in my mind of what this week would look like. S and the boys playing together in the sand and surf for the first time as brothers and sister. Moments of bonding and trust forming. Joy and celebration.


Yet, I’m learning to embrace the story God has written for me and my family. Learning to rest in His timing and trust His sovereignty. Knowing that my plans are never something to boast about. Instead, trusting in His plans – which are far greater than I could ever imagine.”

During that week, we learned of the devastating news about the exit permit suspension.

“… I’m choosing to remember the verse He directed me to and affirmed moments later as Beth Moore read the exact verse from the stage where she spoke.

There is wonderful joy ahead, even though it is necessary for you to endure many trials for a while. 
{1 Peter 1:6}

I’m choosing to remember the One who called us to this path. He is faithful and good. S is His beloved daughter. We will continue to wait for her to be in our arms. We will continue to pray and hope.”

And, just to keep things interesting, the day before we left for this vacation last year, I found out I was pregnant.  I was shocked…these plans were not my own … they were far greater and higher than anything I could have hoped for.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Needless to say, this year, as we pulled into this familiar driveway as a family of SIX, I could not feel more blessed. Answered prayers abound in this place. The dark night has given way to the joy of the morning.


There is wonderful joy ahead, even though it is necessary for you to endure many trials for a while. 
{1 Peter 1:6}

Wonderful, wonderous joy.

Comments

  2. Angela Gowen says

    These photos are precious!! I am so happy WITH you, and for you and your family. This is such an example of how amazing our maker is. Love love LOVE!!!