What truth is in that statement...the days are long but the years are short. These past two weeks have been tough, with the days feeling oh so long. We've all passed around a cold, been exhausted and needy and there is only one of me. Not that anyone else can't help, but Denson has wanted his mama a lot this week so I've been stretched. And when I'm sick I'm needy too so that's where we've been. But as I've struggled through the week, I have worked to focus on His grace and mercy for me as an example to show my children. I have yelled too loud, been impatient, tried to plop Denson down in front of the TV for a few so I can just sip on some hot [not cold] tea to soothe the soar throat. Counting my gifts and appreciating the little things truly changes my perspective and gives me treasured time with both Denson and Eloise. Sharing so many giggles, moments to teach, moments to learn, and reminders that I am only deserving of my life because of Jesus' sacrifice. One Thousand Gifts continues to lead my morning quiet time and keeps me in tune with the direction of my day and breaking expectations. Slowing down and being intentional allows me to experience the fullness of our Father's gifts.
Tuesday we celebrated Denson's 20 month birthday and today we celebrated Eloise's three month. Words can't describe my joy for this sweet girl. She has the biggest smile and soaks up any attention she gets. When she's in the mood to socialize she lets me know, and gets upset if I walk away without warning. She's been sleeping 7-12 hours and is all cozy in her little room. I was more apprehensive about moving her out of our room just because it signals growth and maturity which I want for her, but not too fast. She nurses well and has done better with a bottle, but prefers breastfeeding overall. Denson asked to hold her a dozen times today and I can't keep track of the kisses. He also gave her a birthday "love slap" this afternoon :/ He has so much energy and excitement; I know it's overwhelming, at times, for him to control all the emotions he is feeling. He is talking up a storm and loves looking at his artwork we've hung on the wall. He brings a new peice home each week and loves to explain how he paints with his "haaaans". Baseball and football are his absolute favorite past times. If he's not eating or sleeping, he's playing sports. Reading is a close second because his asks for his bible all the tjem. Thank goodness we have two copies, one for his room and one for downstairs. Melts my heart to hear him say Jesus and his prayers.
Jonathan is working late tonight but we were able to have a 15 minute Chinese takeout dinner date before he headed back to the office. We talked last night about how this season of life, at times, feels like passing ships because we see so little of each other (esp when he works late)...and when he is home, Denson wants his attention so date nights are a priority for us to catch up and reconnect without distraction. It's been a while since date night because we don't know anyone we trust but friends from church have recommendations which I'm thrilled about checking into. 
