Oh that Men would Praise the Lord!

"Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!"

Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31

As the kids and I were recently reading this chapter in Psalms, I noticed this same verse 4 times!  The girls and I talked about how God longs and desires for us to praise Him.  He has been so good to us, yet how often do we thank Him for His goodness?  May He create in me a more grateful heart!  It has been an area I have struggled in the past few weeks even amidst all of His wonderful works.  One day in particular I allowed myself to wallow in my self-pity.  Here I was, a missionary wife.  Surrendered to God's will.  I already gave Him my life and separated myself from everything I knew and loved to serve Him.  Because of all that I had "done for Him", it was not fair of Him to separate me from my love and our children from the papa they needed.  After the last time we were separated for 3 weeks, we vowed to never do that again, but here we were.  Knowing my frame, He in His lovingkindness did not leave me alone, even though it was what I deserved.  Instead, He again showed me His goodness.  While I was still sulking, I received emails and phone calls from people telling me that they were praying for us and cared.  He truly has been good to me and I know His heart aches when I neglect to praise Him and thank Him for His goodness.

Time is passing and it won't be too much longer now until I am in the arms of my love.  As you can see by the little counter on the sidebar, the tentative countdown has begun...only 10 more days!  This first picture is especially for you, my love, as you requested to see me as well as the kids.  Not my best photo, but here I am in my ever-growing state.  This photo makes me wonder how the midwife could say that I am very small and need to eat more. ;)   

That is another blessing...my Christian midwife.  I met with her and absolutely love her.  Not only is she completely workable to whatever I feel comfortable with, but she also prayed with me.  I praise the Lord for how He worked things out.  Not too much longer now!

Today was the first holiday in 5 years that we have been in the states for and we enjoyed a relaxing day with Eric's parents, brother, grandmother, and Uncle and Aunt...and also a BIG piece of blueberry pie.  I don't think I've ever tasted ANYTHING so good!  I hope we are around for blueberry season next year!

Just before lunch, Sammy stole Grampy's hat.  I love his big smiles which reach even his eyes!  Makes me want to kiss him!  {Though I will resist the urge because I want him to stay asleep.}

Before we sat down to enjoy dessert, this little guy caught my attention.  There he was hanging only by his back feet, upside down enjoying his stolen bird food!  It was so funny!

After lunch, the guys sat down for football while the ladies sat around the table and fellowshipped.  This caused me to jump from the table and snatch my camera...isn't it absolutely adorable?

We miss you, Papa!  Anna is praying for you to come back to us safely and soon {we all are}.  I need to make a calendar for the girls so they can count down the days until you are here.  LOVE YOU!