Laying Low

"For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing."- James 1:4

I remember reading this first chapter of James when I was going through fertility treatments. I always found it so strange that is starts off by saying, "Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy." It took me a long time to understand how trouble could bring an opportunity for great joy. But now that I've experienced it, it makes so much sense to me.

I think this verse can mean a lot of different things to different people, but for me, it means that God never wastes a hurt. He will never put me through a trial without bringing me out on the other end stronger, more fulfilled, and a more solid believer. Those things bring me great joy. So for me, I have had to go through some painful troubles in my life in order to draw closer in my relationship with my heavenly father. And for that, I am joyful.

As most of you know, a couple weeks ago I got a phone call saying that my mammogram results were "abnormal" and I needed to have further testing done. After several more tests, the doctor decided she wanted me to go forward with a biopsy.

I had the biopsy done yesterday. The procedure was much more painful than I had anticipated (and I have a pretty high pain tolerance after 2 c-sections). But it's over, and I am ready to move forward. Unfortunately, now I have to wait for the results. Could be as early as tomorrow (Friday), or as late as Monday. I hope I don't have to go through the entire weekend waiting...wondering...worrying...but if I do, I know I will just lean into Jesus that much more.

In the meantime, if you'd like to pray for me, I sure would love that. Prayers for a patient heart, a calm spirit, a positive outlook, and the ability to trust in God that this too will be used for good...no matter what the results.

I have felt so loved throughout this process. So many calls, emails, texts, hugs, tears, visits, gifts... it is almost overwhelming to know how much people care. Thank you to everyone who has extended their love to me over the past few weeks. I can't even begin to tell you how much it means to me.

As you can imagine, with all of the emotional "junk" that's been going on around here, we've been laying pretty low. But I am okay with that. It's given me some time to plan and a LOT of time to think. I'm treasuring some of the quiet moments like...

The other night when Parker dragged his Boppy out of his closet and one by one brought in his blankie, his bunny, his mini Pooh bear and his paci and made a little "nest" on the couch. He was so cozy!

Watching the boys snuggle on the couch with my mom eating their "Paca" corn. Love that.

Taking Parker to feed the ducks while we wait for Payton to get out of school.

He was quite sure the bread was for him, and not the ducks. Although he did get pretty excited when he actually threw some in and the ducks ate it. What a priceless expression. :)

Quiet mornings swinging in the back yard:

Thanks in advance for your prayers this week. I covet them. I need them. I am so grateful for them.

Love you all!