Well Josh and I are gearing up for our first trip back to the States for longer than 4 days. We are going to be spending the time in central Illinois with my family. We have decided it is just too much to try to make it to both families in one 11 day trip, although I would love to have some of his family visit us if it works out. It is hard not to expect to see everyone and do everything and plan every minute, for me. (Now, Josh's personality would be completely squashed by planning to do everything and see everyone). So we will do what we can and see who we can and enjoy some relaxing time and hopefully enjoy some SNOW! I will also get a week and a half to share 9 months of my pregnancy with my family. Who would have thought that I would be living in another country for our first child?!
Sometimes I look back 2 years ago and see how much Josh and I have grown to love each other and understand and appreciate the different personalities of us (although I still have a long ways to go in showing grace and losing my selfish self)! We are some of the most opposite personalities in some areas and yet that is truly what grows us and shapes us. I can't even imagine how this next stage of raising a child will change us. Is change good?! yes, as I say it out loud I realize how much I do resist it at times. I work with students everyday that I am challenging to consider changing their life track and yet thinking about life changing is a little overwhelming. Even just changing our scenery for 11 days involves preparing and being flexible; planning and continuing to live in the moment.
So in change I must continue to stand fast to the God that is never changing. We ask for prayers these next few weeks. Prayers for traveling safety. Prayers for renewal. Prayers for blessed time with family and friends. Prayers for Josh, I, and baby's safety and sanity. Prayers for the opportunity to celebrate the new life God continues to form in my body and the 92nd birthday of my grandma. Prayers that in the 11 days we will see God moments that continue to encourage and sustain us. Prayers that Josh and I can enjoy our time together.
