Packing Lists

We have been preparing for a short trip out of town...

I made a list of random odds and ends that I hoped I wouldn't forget; things like my camera/phone chargers, audio stories for the kids to listen to in the car, food items, etc. I faithfully wrote my list, but I know the truth. Good intentions aside, I KNOW - without fail - that I will leave something behind when departure day finally arrives. I always do. Packing list or not :)

Emily made a list. More than half of her list consisted of individual pieces of clothing; specifying color, brand, or both. The other essentials on her list? Books...ipod...a snuggly blanket...and all "necessary" items to complete homework.  Hmmm. Think there's a pre-teen in our midst?!?

Finally, Ben made a list. He poured himself into his work, until his adorably large and wobbly first grade handwriting filled the front and back of his piece of paper. What were the important items he doesn't want to leave home without? His nintendo ds, games for the system with each title painstakingly copied word for word, various titles of dvds, candy, and "multi-grain jumbo rice krispies". Oh, son. We certainly wouldn't want to forget those!

Happy Valentine's Day

“Love is not blind - it sees more, not less. But because it sees more, it is willing to see less.”

~Julins Gordon

Are you blessed enough to have this in your life? Someone (family member, friend, or spouse) who sees you? REALLY sees you...and loves you anyway? Someone who knows the good, the bad, and the ugly and loves you inspite of it all?

A love like that can only originate in God; but it is a rare and wondrous treasure to be found on earth. Wrap someone in this kind of affection, and suddenly they know no limits! And when it is brought full circle, and the one who is loved extends conditionless love to the people around them, all involved experience a little taste of heaven.

Open your eyes and SEE the individuals in your life. Then love fiercely, regardless.

Happy Valentine's Day