Good Intentions

After a few hours of sleep that began in the wee early morning hours (maybe 4 or 5 a.m.?) I woke with good intentions. I was on a mission to have the house in order and all laundry caught up by the end of the day so that I would only have to maintain this week while preparing for our trip to Omaha. After a couple of tasks I looked around and found better things to do. After all its only Monday and we don't leave for a whole week. So this is what I opted to do instead.

Cuddle up next to my twelve year old as he watched the 05 and 06 home run derbies in preparation for tonight's. The look in his eyes and the excitement in his voice (even after seeing them for the hundredth time) is hard to match. I would much rather do this than fold that load of laundry over there.


Visit with Allie as she paints layer after layer of color on a new canvas she began this morning. As we talk I can't help but think of the layers of blessings, mercies, and grace that God has painted in my own life. I watch her work and listen to her talk and realize there is nothing more important than doing exactly what I am at that moment. Loading the dish washer just can't compare.

Stand in awe as I peek at that little miracle who is sleeping soundly in her crib. Oh, how I wish she would do that at nighttime! Silly pickle, she played and played and played so long and so late that dad left the room to find a quiet place to sleep. I lean in and kiss that tiny forehead and thank the Father for her life, her gift, her presence in this family. She has changed us so very much. I could stand there watching her all day. Those bathrooms CAN wait. The rise and fall of her chest touches my heart. She breathes effortlessly on her own. I remember the many days when she could not. God is so very good.

It is now almost 5:00 and I still don't have the laundry done, the dishes loaded, or the bathroom floors mopped, but I have a heart full of moments that I just couldn't pass up. I can always finish my chores tonight while Ash sits and plays and the rest of the family sleeps. Its all about priorities. Thankfully I have a husband who would agree that I made good use of my time today. Hope you all enjoyed your day as much as I did mine.

P.S.
Amy T.,
Yes, Blake was there selling raffle tickets at Walmart yesterday. I wish you would have asked. I was up there in the afternoon while Ashley napped. I would have loved to have met you. The boys raised almost $1200 for their upcoming National Tournament in Colorado.