As I write tonight, I am overwhelmed with the feeling of being grateful.  I had the privilege of hosting a group of junior and senior high school girls in our home for a DNow weekend.  I loved hearing them laugh and share with each other.  In a season of wars and rumors of wars, natural disaster, protests, immorality, and life in general, I can assure you that we have reason to hope.  The next generation is taking Him at His word and believing that His word is alive and active in them.  But if I am honest, I have been pretty down lately.  I could take the time to list of the difficulty and transition we are facing, but I won’t because I know your list is as long as mine and no less difficult.

My sister and I were sending our last texts of the day which is customary and she said, “…ready for a new season.”  My response was spontaneous, but I think true, “I think somehow we are going to have to find a way to usher in the new season.”  So I decided to spend a little time asking the Father about that and letting my thoughts try and bring that simple sentence to life.  Here is what I came up with.

• It is what it is, and He has not left us here alone.  We aren’t the only ones facing difficulties.  I know I can spend too much time feeling sorry for my situation rather than searching for His direction.
• As my man would say, “Enjoy the good times.”  If we know that we all go through a season of difficulty, then we must learn to appreciate our good times.
• Look for the lesson.  I love the Lord and I love that He doesn’t allow any circumstance in our life but that it could be used for good.  Find the good and learn all that you can.
• Create memories.  Learn to be in the moment.  Time goes so quickly.  Take time to taste, smell, see and touch your “moments” and really be a part of them.

Finally, as we move into this fall season, I am determined that it will literally mean a change of season in my family.  My momma and my Papa will for eternity celebrate holidays in the Presence of the Reason.  We will continue to miss them, yet we will celebrate.

I believe that part of ushering in a new season is making a plan for precious family gatherings that will create memories.  I am calendaring different holiday events that I am planning for my family.  We are having a hay ride, participating in our church’s Thanksgiving meal provision, and having “thankful” rolls for Thanksgiving dinner.  We will laugh our heads off during black Friday shopping, enjoy our annual family tree trimming, have a night of “wreath making”, a trip to look at Christmas lights, and lots of evenings by the fire.

I will be wife to Brian and I will be honored.  I will be mom to Jake, Madi and Tanner, and I will love it.  I will be Whit’s mother-in-law and I will cherish it.  I will be Bracen, Bayler and Blayze’s GiGi and I will thrill in it.  I will be a daughter, sister, granddaughter, aunt, and friend and I will be thankful.  Because my greatest joy comes from being a child, His child and He is good to me.  I will remember that this fall, on purpose.

My love,