4 Year-Old School Girl

I can't believe that Ava is 4 already and going to preschool. She is really coming into her own these days. Her personality just shines through every day. She had a blast at her party last week. We went to "Papa's Barn" for the big bash where she got to share her new swingset from Papa and Oma with some of her friends and cousins. She loved having Lily help with her gift opening and was very gracious about giving up some of the paper-tearing.

School was just another exciting adventure for her. She didn't even hesitate when we got there. I'm so proud of you Ava Dawn. I can't wait to see how you continue to grow and learn. Put God first little one, the rest is just details. I love you!

Here's Ava chilling out before school watching a little Curious George. (big surprise there).

Introducing...

George and Daphne!

Ava and I recently adopted two kittens from Harbour Humane Society. They have made themselves right at home and Ava doesn't ever tire of their antics and giggles nonstop at them. I've lost a few houseplants and a few hours of sleep, but I love them too.

Daphne Jo

George Gershwin

New Beginnings

I know it's been way too long. I constantly think things like, "this would be perfect to blog about", or "this is a picture for the blog". It always feels like work though when it comes down to it. Anyway, a lot has happen in my life since my last post and I think I'm ready to share some of it with you all.

Many of you know of the struggles that have overwhelmed my marriage over the last several years and now those struggles have been lifted and a new set have begun. I want to say first and foremost that GOD is GOOD! I have not only felt His presence in ways I could only imagine before, but I have developed a love for the Almighty that I wouldn't trade for anything. He is my All in All. God's word has become increasingly real to me, truly keeping my feet beneath me in the days I was sure I could not go on.

That said, I understand that divorce is a very tough subject and there are many thoughts and opinions about the one I've just been through. Please know that I am FOR marriage and commitment. Divorce should never be an option and yet there are times when it may be the only one left. I am risking judgement by writing about these things that I have experienced personally, but I believe that God is a part of the very words that I write. I want to share my pain, my struggles, my heartbreak and my triumphs with you. I want you all to share in the challenges and even more, the Hope, that I am so sure of.

One last thing before I move on to something more fun. Please respect that I will not be writing about any of the details surrounding the breakup of my marriage, I am not here to seek justification or build a "team". I still care about Matt and have no desire to hurt him or make things more difficult for him. (turns out he just went through a divorce too. :))

Thank you all for loving on each of us and keep sending prayers upward as we navigate this new way of life.

Our New Home!

Before:

After:

Ava and I are very cozy here and she is "excited to be living at our new house". I'll show you all the inside pics another time. Too much of a good thing can be overwhelming. :)

Waiting...

"Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken." Psalm 62:5-6


Everything rides on hope now.
Everything rides on faith somehow.
When the world has broken me down, Your love sets me free.
When my life is like a storm
Rising waters all I want is the shore
You say I'll be ok and
Make it through the rain
You are my shelter from the storm.

Addison Road "Hope Now"

...and tomorrow is the prom

It's amazing how fast time flies with kids! Ava had her first dance "celebration" last weekend. She did fabulous and looked even better. We had to curl her hair and put on lots of makeup-which made me realize I am not ready for her teen years. After her and Lily were all dolled up they kept running to the mirror saying "we have to check our eyes and lips". Girls just know how to be girls don't they?!

I am so proud of you Avary Dawn! You are talented in so many ways!

Hhhmmm...

I'd much rather just change the background on my blog than actually do any blogging. I promise that I'll try harder...just not tonight. :)