Busy with Blessings

So this week has been amazingly busy, but full of blessings.

I was given the opportunity to nanny for my good friend this week. Her four kids and my three kids made for a full house (at hers), lots of diaper changes, Dora, and lunches. But I had such a good time playing with all the kids. It was different not having laundry and cleaning to do while watching the kids. It allowed me more time to just observe them, play with them, read stories, and gaze into the saltwater fish tank with amazed toddlers. I loved watching her little baby advance in her crawling skills and be constantly on the move. And her grunting- so unexpected from such a cutie!

The week was already loaded with a lot, but somehow it all managed to get done. Pack meeting went off without a hitch (thanks for all your help Beth!), laundry, Erin to school, dishes and home were cared for in my absence (THANKS Jeff!). I gained a greater appreciation for the working moms. You all are truly amazing. My compensation was exactly enough to fill in the gaps of Jeff's unemployment for all of our expenses for a month. Blessings, blessings.

Jeff was also able to do a few hours of contract work for his old employer on Friday. Just one more blessing. And he has a job lead from an old teacher from college that might work out. Blessing.

My scripture study has become more personal over the last few weeks. I feel comfort in them. I feel like I am being directed and guided through them. It always amazes me how much more there is to learn, and that I hadn't seen it the other many times I have read the same passage. Blessings!

I know that the Lord is watching out for us. And that he knows my needs before I even ask him. I am so grateful for Him. I am grateful for friends who are also looking out for us. Their concern and love have been wonderful. I am grateful to family who insist on helping in a variety of ways before I can even ask- all much appreciated. I know that this is not over yet, but I am still full of optimism and hope. I can see the tender mercies of the Lord in my life daily. In small and simple things, but I know that he cares. So thank you to all of you- and my dear friend who let me be her nanny. Your many thank yous are blessings and I so enjoyed every moment in your home. Your kids are wonderful, even after 3pm!

And if you made it through that way long journal entry then here is your reward- a cute picture of Ethan and Katelyn upside down on the ottoman a few months back. Those two are definitely from the same mold. Like two peas in a pod~ and still hanging in there!