Stirring it up...

It's been a week of thunderstorms, high humidity, and high temperatures. The last thing anyone wants to do in those conditions is cut the lawn. Consequently, our usually well-manicured acre has turned in to somewhat of a weed sanctuary, complete with dandelions and fire ant mounds. Today, during a momentary break in the clouds, I mounted the riding lawnmower, and Luis armed himself with the trimmer and his safety glasses. I began with my usual cut of methodical geometric shapes in the front and back yard (what can I say, I AM, after all, the daughter of Richard Kellish!!). As I was "plowing" my way through the overgrown grass that had already gone to seed, I began to see all sorts of grasshoppers, butterflies, crickets jumping and fleeing for their lives. At that moment, God reminded me of this scripture:

2 Timothy 1:6(NIV) Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

As I "stirred up" the neglected, forgotten grass, there was again new life breathed into my yard. Things that were hidden and lying dormant were now jumping and leaping with excitement. I began to think about how our gifts that the Lord has given us can become dry and bogged down by the overgrowth of dust, dirt and cobwebs of inactivity. If we don't use our gifts, they can become weak and fade into obscurity, never fulfilling the purpose for which it was given in the first place. Our gift isn't meant to be hidden inside us, but rather to be shared and used to touch the lives of others. Which then, in turn, breathes life into us all over again.

Handmade treasure

My sister Lisa surprised me on my trip to NY with a new outfit that she made for Lily. I absolutely love it and it looks so cute on her! Here's some shots of Lily modelling her new onesie.

NY trip

We just returned from our trip to NY. It was just the kids and I (Luis had to work). I was so proud of myself for making my first trip alone with the kids. The drive there and back was perfect! The boys were so good and Lily (although not feeling well on the return trip) was a super traveller! It was such a blessing to be able to stop with my friend Jennifer in Virginia both ways as well. Our kids loved playing together and she and I made up for lost time! Our trip was packed with adventure, and I am exhausted, yet happy. Here's some memories!