The Gifts of Life

They say you never know what lies around the corner - and I really believe that's true. When Paul and I said "I do" nine months ago we had no clue what was around the corner for us. God has so many precious gifts wrapped for us in so many different packages but I think the hard thing about them is that they aren't always easy to accept. I am so glad God knows what we need even though we may not have chosen the way many of the gifts come wrapped.

Paul and I never would have wanted to lose our first little one, but we feel like God has blessed us through it with a lot of grace and peace. This present was wrapped with deep pain and many tears, but we are constantly reminded that we have a Sovereign all knowing God who loves us very much and is shaping us into the family He wants us to be.

Triva Question:
What is full of energy, leaves messes over the house, makes a lot of fun noises, and weighs about 40 lbs?

Answer:
If you guessed a dog you're wrong, but if you guessed a five year old, you are right!

Abel came into our lives a little over a month ago. He is living with us until his mom finds a job. He is with us 24/7 and keeps us on our toes. What a joy he's been to have around. Even though the house isn't as clean as I'd like it and I don't get as much done as I used to, I have truly been blessed by Abel. I've been teaching him most mornings trying to get him caught up to first grade. When Paul gets home from work, Abel is his buddy following him around and asking him lots of questions. Paul said it is great to have a "furby" around again. This little guy is very thoughtful and is very receptive to spiritual concepts. If you ask Him how many parts of the Trinity there are - he can tell you. He and and his mom attend a church in their town so both he and his mom have had some exposure to the gospel. We have been very blessed to be a part of their lives. We see his mom usually once a week. Abel has type 1 diabetes which means we have to count everything he eats (carbs), test his sugar (6-7 times a day), and give him insulin shots (5-7 a day). Needless to say, both Paul and I have gotten quite the education in diabetes. The Lord provided a huge resource for us - my godmother Aunt Eileen. Her daughter Colleen was diagnosed last year with type 1 diabetes. She has taught us so much and has graciously been our "hot line." God is so good to provide everything we need when we need it! This gift was wrapped with fun, work, and turned our lives upside down for awhile but has won our hearts and love and taught us so much about so many different areas in life. We have such a different perspective on those who don't have the same privileges as us. God has blessed both Paul and I with families around us to help us out if we need it - so many around us don't have that privilege and have no one to turn to. Look around you today and count your blessings - you really have more than you can count!


Our next present is still wrapped but I know it's there - we expect to receive this little package around Christmas! I'm feeling pretty good - a little nauseous but nothing to really complain about. Naps have become a necessity if I can fit it in especially after running after a five year old and 4 little neighbor boys that are Abel's little friends (they hang out most days after school). We'll keep you posted on this newest gift:)

I'll have to post pictures of Abel and us after I get my camera from my family's house - I'm blaming my forgetfulness on the pregnancy (I know I'm already bad, but Paul says I'm a ton worse when I'm pregnant - oh well)!

Wrapped in God's great love,
Rebecca