Birthdays and Family

Yesterday we celebrated my mom's birthday. I've gotten into the habit of buying my parents gift cards for restaurants, as they really enjoy having a nice meal out together. My kids made her some really cute cards, and I encouraged them to handwrite some messages in them. (See previous post). So, we are preparing to head to my parents house, which is close to mine, and I remember the flowers. My sister always sent flowers to my mom. Now, I'm not good at sending flowers, I always remember too late. My sister didn't have that problem, I'm quite sure she had everything on a calendar, and ordered them well in advance. I'm pretty sure she also never had to pay for overnight shipping, something that I regularly have to do. I was getting myself and the kids ready, so I sent Johnny out to get some flowers for mom.

I know that I can't do everything exactly like my sister did, and even if I did, it wouldn't be the same. We are coming to the beginning of the holiday season, and these will be some pretty tough first for us: First Thanksgiving and Christmas without Brenda. I have no doubt that she is celebrating in ways the we can't even know, with our Savior, but it is still so difficult here as I miss her so very much. But I cling to Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.

We ended the day with Justin's final regular season football game. His team has had a bit of a rough time with some tough losses, but he is having a great time. My parents were able to come and watch as well. I don't understand football anymore than I did at the beginning of the season, so I just wait until I hear other people from our team cheering, and then join in.

So through the happiness of family celebrations and football games, and the pain of missing my sister, I remember Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

The Value of a Card

I used to be really good about sending cards: birthday, friendship, etc. That habit has gone by the wayside in frequent years due to just being busy with life and the ease of e-mail. So much easier to type and press send.

But I was reminded recently of the value of sending a card by a member of a Bible Study. Then, a few days later, I came across a card my sister had sent me several years ago. We always tried to find the goofiest cards to send each other, it didn't have to be a birthday. There was a witty message printed on it by the card company, but the most valuable part was the message she wrote to me. There is something so special about a message written in someones own handwriting that is so precious.

So my hope is that I can continue that with my family and friends. I want my children to have handwritten notes from me, and for them to also write notes to friends and loved ones.

Who would love to receive a card or letter from you?