Blessings

I read today a side note to a series of verses in my bible that I've been thinking all day about. It said to complain privately, but praise in public. In other words, give God the glory when things are going well and don't just keep it inside. I do that I guess, quite a bit. I think, oh well no one will really understand why I'm so excited about this or that.

So in order to apply this spiritual truth to my life- I'm going to do some praisin'!!

Things have been pretty bleak financially for us for some time. With Paul's new job, we knew we would have to cut even more spending than before because it was a pretty good cut in pay.

Well, praise God we were able save and go on our first family vacation ever! We went up Door county and to Washington and Rock Islands. We watched what we spent very closely. Even so, what looks good on paper usually doesn't work the same in real life. So it's been tight. But it was a beautiful trip, one I can't wait to make again!

The kids have bible camp this week, normally a substantial sacrifice for us to send them. Well, praise God!!! Tyler was able to pay his whole way with money he raised in fundraisers for our youth group, Katia earned $150 off camp, plus we registered early, and as an added surprise- two friends came this year. So she is given a $50 credit in her canteen(shirt shop and candy store). Which equated to us not having to spend anything out of pocket at all this year! This is truely a blessing!!

And then there's my kids. I'm just so thankful for them. Each of them bless my heart in a different way. Tyler is my wise, helpful son, Katia is my sweet encourager, and Tayton shows unconditional love.

I'm thankful and praising our youth director and his wife as well as another couple that leads our kids. They are truely impacting our youth in this area and it makes my heart overflow. Thank you God from whom all blessings flow!