Blessed. So Blessed.

I can scarcely believe it.  2012 is nearly over and we're about to embark on a brand, spanking New Year.

I have so much to be grateful for this past year.  

My family's healthy.  Oh my.... isn't that just grand?  I know there are so many struggling with illness and I know how hard that can be.

My heart goes out to you.  And, if you ask me...  I'll be sure to pray for you and yours.

I adore my husband...  so patient and kind...  My daughter is so precious to me and my grandson is PURE JOY!

I'll never stop being amazed that the Father listens to ME!....  little 'ol me...  from Washington State.  He cares about me, knows how many hairs are on my head (fewer than in the past) and wants what's best for ME!  It gives me goose bumps....  I'm in AWE of Him.

I'm so grateful that He loves me even when HE REALLY knows me.  Whoa....

I have a sweet little cottage with plenty to eat (NOTE TO SELF:  you really MUST cut back), heat and a car that never fails me.

I find myself being so grateful for those things.  I'm so content with what we have.  Nothing's fancy around here....  NOTHING...  our cars are older, our house is now ten years old and teensie...  we don't have a boat or vacation home, but I'm so happy and content with what we've been given.  In fact, I'm downright thrilled with it.  

As I walk through this little cottage I thank God constantly.  I just love it.  REALLY love it.  He's given me the talent to make it into a home that we both enjoy by re-creating old things.  Amazing.  Not bragging here.......truly, I am not.  I realize I couldn't do these creative things without His direction and His hand is on everything I do.  

Now, that's reallllly cool, right?

I have always thought that because I have a tough time in the walking department (you can read about that HERE, if you're so inclined) He gave me an extra measure of artfulness.  Something to keep me entertained.  And it really does.

My heart is just bursting today.  So full of gratitude.

So now, I'm off to clean the teensie, bitsy cottage...  and yes, I'm even grateful to be able to do that.....  there have been times when I couldn't.

You mean so much to me...  I'm grateful to you too, for the love and kindness you've given me the past few years.  I started this blog nearly four years ago, right after my Mum passed away.  I thought my life was over I was in so much pain...  but time does heal and although I miss her every, single day, it's not as painful as it once was, not having her here.  And, I know I'll see her again.  

Happy New Year sweet chickies.  May your year be filled with contentment and joy that comes from knowing Him...    :-)

Be Blessed,

Spencer

xo

Remembering Mike

On September 9th, 1995, my sweet daughter married her prince charming. They were so in love and so happy. They wanted to have a child so badly, but wanted to wait until everything was in order.......to be settled, have a home and work on their careers.

June 12, 2000 my darling Brett was born. Oh, how I love that boy. He was so fortunate to have a dad who was enthralled with fatherhood. He couldn't wait to be able to spend time with his son. Mike worked full time and went to college full time, but still found time for Brett. Such a happy family.

On March 7th, 2003, on his way home from work, Mike was killed in a car accident. My daughter has shown a resilience and strength I don't think she knew she had. She's an awesome mom, devoted to motherhood and to her child. I'm so proud of her, at the same time so sorry for her loss. But, my heart is breaking for my sweet grandson. He has memories of his dad, but is reminded constantly that other kids have two parents. It's so hard to see him hurting. They told us early on that at each different stage of his life there would be a new sense of loss and grief.

God bless you, dear family. I love you so much, and I'm so grateful that we have a loving God who cares for you and who has held you up along the way.

Loving you more than you'll ever know....
Mummy/Hemma

I just finished reading The Shack......hmmm......I have to say I didn't enjoy it. I know, I should have put it down, but I NEVER give up on a book, and I've read some pretty lousy ones. I actually finished Lovely Bones because I am so determined to finish a book. I believe God is to be glorified. I stand in AWE of Him! And, very, very grateful. God is portrayed as a woman in this book and the sort of gal you'd want to high 5. I felt like it was disrespectful. Just not my cup of tea.

Did you read it? What did you think?? Did you enjoy it? What did you take away from the book? What did I miss??

I'd love to hear what you thought.

Warmly,
Spencer