Blessed.

In the midst of all the craziness and busyness of life sometimes the simplest things still make me smile.

My life is beginning to get a little more busy again and I'm not quite sure how I feel about it. It's funny because just a few months ago I was begging for more to do, my old crazy busy schedule back, but now...well, I'm not so sure. I do enjoy getting to be creative again and teaching (in whatever aspect I can). I miss those things.

On top of all the craziness, we lost a loved one recently. It's times like these that really make you stop and take inventory of your life once again. It makes you ever more thankful for all the people in your life and reminiscent of those you have known that have touched your life. I'm very honored and blessed to have known this person and know that many people will miss them. I also know that they are finally at peace and in a better place, and for that I am happy. I'm not the best at giving advice, and so I don't try too often, however, I'd like to think I'm a good listen and a good hugger. :) I hope I can be of some comfort to those who are hurting.

I think one of the worst feelings is when you see someone hurting and you can't do anything to help. I've realized that sometimes the only thing you can do is pray and sometimes that is just what they need. I've also learned a smile goes a long way as does a kind, soft, encouraging word, and a good long hug. People just want to know someone loves them and cares for them. I often thought about doing missionary work when I was younger and would always feel so sad about a lot of the children and men and women who were hurting and lonely. Then I thought, if someone only told them about Jesus, then they would always know that someone loves them and cares for them and will never leave them. I am so thankful to our missionaries in all countries. I hope to someday be able to help out with some. I admire you. Thank you.

Throughout all the craziness and heartache I know I can always count on God to always be there for me. That's what gets me through some crazy times. That's what helps me through the anger of not being able to help sometimes. God knows all and He will show you what you can do to help. There's always something you can do. I've learned that. You just have to choose to do it. Sometimes that's the hardest part.

I'm amazed at how much my little girl has grown in the past week. At 8 months old she's already pulling herself up, can sit herself up from the tummy position, can play on her own, can feed herself little puffs, and she's just about learned how to crawl. I can't believe it. She's becoming such a big girl. As we come closer and closer to her birthday it makes me realize how fast time really does fly and that in turn makes me feel old.

Oh I hope I take in every moment and never take anything for granted. My eyes are opened every day to what an amazing husband I have and what a wonderful Daddy he's becoming and what an awesomely sweet little girl we have together. God has supremely blessed us and I am forever thankful. I look forward to many wonderful years to come. I hope that this week brings you all happiness, peace, and enlightenment as it has already brought me. :)