In the eye of the storm

Well, as I am sure everyone knows, we here on the East coast have had a hurricane move through the area. And I am aware that most of you inland have also felt the effects of this storm, some even worse than we did.

For us in Lancaster County, PA, we were directly in the path of the eye of this hurricane. We all prepared and braced for whatever this storm would bring. In the wake of the storm, there were some that experienced power outages, a few uprooted trees, and minor ponding of water. Our family never lost power, though it flickered a number of times, and we had no large trees or branches come down.

As we have seen the reports of surrounding areas, we are realizing that being hit by the eye of this storm was a saving grace. Those in the path of the outer bands experienced much higher winds and more rain. Obviously those where the storm met land experienced great devastation.

We are extremely thankful that God protected us and our neighbors. We know of many that have family and friends in New Jersey and New York. Please continue to pray for the thousands who are now without homes and if you are able find ways to tangibly help these people then please do so.

God is in control and He is our rock and protector. He is our shelter from the storm.

Girl's Weekend=God's Gifts

This past weekend was spent in Columbus, OH with the Maxson girls. We have had a girl's weekend trip for the past five years. The first year it was just the four adult girls. Since then we have added a few "littles" to the group and have at times been accompanied by other extended family. But it has become an annual trip that we all look forward to.

This year we enjoyed the time together as we know that it will be a number of months before we are all together again. My sister-in-law and niece will be going to Florida with my brother for a few months. They will be there over the holiday's so we will not be together over Thanksgiving or Christmas. In addition, our family will be out of the country on a missions trip over Christmas, making for a very different looking holiday season.

I am blessed to have great friendships with my mom, sister, and sister-in-law. This weekend was a great reminder to be thankful for the good gifts that God has given to me. (James 1:17) Every good thing in our lives is a gift from God. By remembering this, our perspective is filtered through a very grateful heart. Such a great reminder as we head into the season of thanksgiving and gifts.

She is 6!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I am blessed to be this beautiful little girl's mommy. She is such a joy!