Blog post 9/5/11
Today I am sitting by a nice fire, enjoying the warmth. The leaves have turned and are falling outside. My boys are playing xbox in the other room. Everyone else is out working or running errands. It is quiet, peaceful and comfortable. I am enjoying the moment of solitude. They seem to be few and far between, more than I like.
A few months ago I was by a pool, soaking up some sun and reading a good book. I was also wondering what in the world we were going to do and how God was going to bring things together. Amazing how life can change so drastically in a small amount of time.
Our family has gone from the hot desert of Arizona to the bustling city of Seattle on to the wild beauty of Alaska. All in a month and a half. I wasn't too sure about coming back to Alaska. I loved the warmth of Arizona, the sun shining everyday, the breathtaking sunsets. I loved seeing the stars on a summer night, swimming more than just in summertime and wearing flip-flops or sandals all year long. I found beauty in the desert.
But God had other plans, as He usually does. Through a series of events God brought us back to Alaska. I cried, I yelled and I fought with God when I knew this was His plan. I felt like Jacob when he wrestled with the Lord. I wrestled with God, all the while knowing that whatever He was doing was for my good.
Sometimes God has plans that make no sense, or go against our comfort zone. He doesn't care about our comfort, just our obedience.
I decided before our drive to Alaska that I was going to make the most of it. I haven't always done good at that. But I am determined to enjoy and get the most out of life no matter where I am. I know we are supposed to be here. I know God brought us back here for our good. He knows the plans He has for us.... He wants us to be successful and blessed. Some things don't make sense, but they don't have to. I am choosing once again to trust.
I am in awe of God's beautiful handiwork as we drive down the road. The mountains stand at attention, their peaks waiting for the first snowfall. The trees dance in the wind, dressed in colors of gold, brown and green. The lakes reflect the terrain around them like a mirror. The skies change from brilliant blues to smokey grays with tufts of white clouds floating here and there. Alaska is a beautiful place. The most beautiful place I have ever seen. I have travelled all over the world to some amazing places. Yet Alaska still takes my breathe away.
I am thankful for the change. Thankful that God loves me enough that He will move beyond me, to get me where I need to be. I am thankful He has His best for me in His plan. I am thankful for the love and care He has for me and my family. I am thankful for His kindness. I am thankful for fellowship and friends that are friends no matter what. I am blessed beyond measure.
