Reasons to Celebrate!

I have so many reasons to celebrate this weekend.  Of course, Sunday was Mother's Day, and I have the privilege of celebrating the opportunity to be a mother to my three blessings: Megan, Kyle, and Caleb.  They are such an amazing gift! With the help of God, I want to live a life that leaves them a legacy of faith, and is an example of the life-changing grace of God.

Mother's day is also a wonderful day to celebrate my own Mom, another of God's precious gifts to me.  I remember the first few weeks at home with my sweet Megan.  I wasn't prepared for how much work being a Mother really is.  I remember having no idea how I was supposed to get my tiny baby from sleeping in my arms to sleeping in her crib.  My sweet mom stayed up many a late night with me helping me to get things figured out.  She has continued to be a blessing with her help, her godly advice and gentle encouragement.  I love her dearly!

I also am celebrating the amazing gift of life.  A year ago I had my liver-transplant surgery.  It was the beginning of renewed health and optimism as well as tremendous spiritual blessings!  Sunday was exactly a year later, and everyday I marvel at how much energy I have!  God has used this experience to change my life in so many many ways.  I never want to forget God has done.  I pray that he will keep using the things that I experienced through the last year to change me and continue to make me into his image.

And lastly, I had the opportunity to celebrate by enjoying some time alone with my husband!  We spent Sunday night in Rochester. I had an appointment in the transplant clinic Monday morning (which went very well).  My parents generously agreed to watch our little ones while we had a one night getaway!  I soaked up the peaceful time with my husband without the little ones to interrupt conversations.  It was sweet and wonderful and I loved it!

All of these precious gifts are from the hands of my heavenly Father.  I cannot claim responsibility for any of it.  All I can do is praise God for his mercy and his grace in my life.  Every good and perfect gift comes from Him!