I'm Very Thankful and Relieved

The above poem and picture remind me of how I feel after this week's e-mail I received. I was very concerned over a jury duty appearance right after our vacation. Even Monday night, when I was filling in the online paperwork, I was overwhelmed by the gravity of the task of jury duty, on top of all that I have been responsible for the past, almost 2 years. Next, I was concerned with the lack of childcare, who could easily help with Chantel's needs, my 87 year old Mother-in-Law... Also, the week it was to happen was the beginning of the memory week for the death of my dad, July 21st, 2010, two years ago. This year, seems to be the toughest for me grief wise, maybe it's finally hitting me. Also, our child, Patience,lost by miscarriage, July 20th, 2009... I was SO THANKFUL and RELIEVED.. when I received an e-mail stating that I had been officially excused the next day, yesterday.. Now I can move on with our vacation and enjoy it, instead of dreading the news, phone calls and concerns. THANKFUL that GOD placed some empathy in the heart of a judge. Also, I will have more time to spend with Chantel... and resting and recuperating.. like the summer was supposed to be. Also, getting ready for Sunday School Teaching again in the fall. VERY THANKFUL!

So Much has Changed...

Today.. I am relaxing a bit.. No school for me this week.. as I plan the projects and events of our lives.. Vacation... a Generator.. for when there is no heat.
Caring for Chantel while she was home from school, Tues.. due to redness in her eye.. making sure it wasn't anything more serious. Getting my fingerprinting done so I can update my school papers for fall.

Also, I was waiting for the permit to come. Our project was rescheduled from Monday, until tomorrow. In the middle of the week, I felt like I was wasting time off while I was waiting. In the mean time, I was able to get more questions answered and more projects started, at least info. wise.

Wednesday, I was praying at church, the House of Prayer, an area where people can go during the first week of Lent.. to pray in various ways.. One of my favorite.. is walking on a Labyrinth (for prayer).. I walk in and share my thoughts and requests with God.. and in the center.. I stop and listen and reflect.. on the way out. .I thank God for what He has done and will do. Chantel did the with me on Friday.. she walks quickly in and out.. yet still enjoys spending time with God in a new way.
For me.. I'm trying to get answers to my questions and to reflect.. listen.. and hear from God.

When I came home from my fingerprinting, lunch out, and a trip to Lowe's for things and info. for future. I had the answer I needed... a date for the installation and
2 companies on board. I was thankful and relieved.. knowing that God is in control when life seems so out of control.

So now.. to think of some other things I should be doing. Probably start on those tomorrow, while I have to be here for those working. Also, thankful.. to finally have our house in a VERY decent order.. due to the last weekend working on sorting and putting things away.. donating.. etc. It's been a long 1 1/2 years.. since my dad passed away and going through my parents house.. and my stuff from their house too.. It's been emotionally and physically exhausting..

Enjoying our NEW normal.. at our house. Trying to deal with the current issues of school for Chantel.. until the year ends.. and continuing to pray for an improved year.. next year.. So Done with the DRAMA and lack of professionalism. Thankful for my days at school when I get the chance.. I love working with children and encouraging them and helping them to learn and grow..

Chantel's been growing and maturing for her 4th year of ballet.. and 1st year of jazz. She has 4 parts and 4 costumes in this year's performance. Also, she's a budding violinist. She can memorize.. sing.. dance.. and play all at the same time. We are excited to attend her May performance. (Usually play and dance.. while she has her piece memorized.. )

Hope your lives are settled and being directed by God.. through the good and the bad times.. as ours have and continue to be. Have a Great Weekend!