May. 14, 2007 - Such a beautiful day............and a day filled with pain and sorrow...
Today started beautiful. I started the day at 5:30am walking the dogs. The air was crisp and fresh. I felt totally energized and ready to take on the day. At 7 am I woke the kids and made breakfast. By 7:45 we headed out for our morning nature walk. This morning Lachlan and Arran wanted to lead the way to their fort. They took us down to "the bridge" where they and their friends play and spend most of their days lately.
Their "fort" reminded me of a Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn hideout. It was a beautiful little oasis a little ways back in the woods. The small area was wonderfully secluded. A small (and shallow) creek ran through and the boys "shelter" was beneath a bridge. It was quiet and peaceful. All around us nature sang out. We were surrounded by birds, ducks, beaver (seriously!!) and the beautiful smells of nature. Fresh and delicious. I couldn't be happier.
I was so pleased that the boys found such a treasured place to simply be boys. They told me how each of them had a rock that was "claimed land" to call their own. They spent their time having picnics, water play, sunning on the rocks and getting dirty. What young boy could resist such a wonderful find? It was beautiful and I was so very happy for them and for this precious time with them. I thought of how incredible it is to have my children at home to enjoy and to share these moments with. What an incredible blessing.
I returned home a few hours later to some devastating news. One of the ladies in my Sonlight forum tragically lost her 10 year old son. He died as a result of a terrible accident while they were away on vacation. One moment he was fine, then in one tragic second he was gone from this earth forever. My heart was crushed. They are of course completely devastated. Can you imagine? Can anyone? It was such a contrast from the feelings I had in the earlier part of the day.
We need to everyday live life to the fullest. Hug our children, encourage them, be a blessing to them, look out for them as best we can and always point them to God. Unfortunately not all things in life can be prevented. Perhaps it is just not in His plan. I can't quite understand it, but I know it is true. I know that God will use this situation for good. God is incredible and He can do that. Our children are such incredible blessings: Love them and enjoy every moment. Let them reveal His wonder to us.
The family I have told you about is among His faithful. Please keep Amy and her family in your prayers as they walk this most difficult path. Please pray for their healing.
