I've been thinking.....

The last of the snow is almost gone. We've enjoyed sunshine nearly every day last week. Winter is definitely on the way out, and glorious spring is here. Spring!!

And I've been thinking, how is it that this is the 30th time in my life that winter has faded and spring returns, and yet I am surprised. I can hardly believe that I can safely put the boots and snow pants away. Did I truly believe that this was the year of never-ending winter? Is my memory so poor? Is spring just that exciting? Is winter just that long??

I think this is a reminder of how feeble our minds really are. It's a testament to how quickly I forget, even if it's the umpteenth time it's happened. I know that when I study the Israelites in the Old Testament, I can't believe how many times they turn their backs on God to worship idols and pagan gods. How many times does that happen in their history? And yet, the cycle of falling away and then coming back to God repeats itself dozens and dozens of times.

I'm not that different. God's telling me as spring returns and I recognize my very weak memory, that I am no different than those Israelites. How many times have I laid awake at night worrying about the future, even though every time God takes care of it, even the littlest most minor details of it. How many times have I decided that it was too much, only to be given more patience, more strength, more understanding at just the right time from my gracious God. He shows up every time. Just like spring. God has never failed me. And yet I forget.

Maybe I'll do better. Maybe I'll remember more often, or at least forget less. I hope that as Elise and I enjoy the sunshine this week, and as we welcome all the exciting sounds and smells of spring, we'll praise God for His complete faithfulness. We'll delight in a God who brings us spring every year.

Starting Good Habits

So the pediatrician told us to start brushing Elise's teeth twice a day. Holy smokes. I thought we were stellar parents for brushing them nearly every day. Two times in one day seemed like a lot. The good news is that Elise LOVES brushing her teeth. And, for 16 months old, I think that she's pretty good at it....but I think that she's good at nearly everything. :) We're liking our new twice daily brushing, as you can tell:

Happy Valentine's Day!

Elise received a Valentine's Day Card in the mail from her Grandma and Grandpa Linn. She just learned how to "dance" last week, so we are having a lot of fun. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa! Happy Valentine's Day!!