Strep

Last week my right tonsil hurt, but I chalked it up to being thirsty and dehydrated. Sunday night, my left tonsil hurt so bad I could hardly swallow. Yesterday, I took the Baby D and Baby Girl for their 6 and 2 month check ups, respectively, and really started feeling like poo.

Since my wonderful mom came with me to the check ups (we've been through twin check ups before and 2 babies getting shots requires a two person team), she told me to drop my the urgent care clinic and have them look at my throat.

Whatta ya know, I've got Strep throat.

I don't remember ever having it before, and man does it ever hurt. Supposedly this pain medicine they gave me is suppose to help, and let me tell you, if I don't take it on the 4 hour mark, I pay for it later.

Anyway, if you think about it, please pray that Luke and the kids are spared from the strep. Boy, that would really stink.

Have a great New Year's Eve!

The Other Side

Six years ago, almost to this very hour, I stood behind 2 solid, wood doors. My heart was fluttering and my eyes misty. As I stood there, with my arm looped through my Dad's, I had no idea what awaited me on the other side. Although the physical journey on the other side of those doors was just a short walk down the aisle, the memories, relationships and love that have been formed from that day to this have exceeded my wildest expectations.

The doors flung open and there stood my love, dressed in a perfect tuxedo, surrounded by our family and friends. Funny thing now, but I barely remember the long anticipated journey down the aisle to become his wife. I can hardly remember any of the details that seemed so important on that day. Time and distance has separated us from many of the people we asked to join us in our wedding party.

I wonder now, how might our marriage be better, closer and more holy if I had focused all my energy on becoming a Godly wife rather than a blushing bride. And although God's mercy and grace has proven to be the key ingredient in our wonderful marriage, I can only mourn for the days that I was so wrapped up in this world that I could hardly see my Lord beckoning me to Him.

It's only been 6 years, which seems like such a short time compared to some marriages. However, in those 6 years God has so richly blessed us with 5 healthy, wonderful children. He has blessed us financially, with way more than we could ever need. He has blessed me with a husband who desires to serve Him. He has shown me that a Biblical marriage is worth working for and submission is a beautiful thing.

As I think back to myself, the me of 6 years ago standing behind 2 wooden doors, I am so humbled at the way God has changed my heart and my life. I praise the One who had used our messed up story and turned it into something for His glory. I praise Him because He changed me, and us, to make our marriage last and become something functional.

As I watch the doors fling open on the rest of our life and the years to come, I'm still a lot like that bride of 6 years ago. I can see the place I am suppose to walk, I see the goals and dreams and fears that lie ahead. However, this time I have my arm looped through the Father's, and a Godly man already at my side. I am so honored and blessed to have shared the last 6 years with this man. And as we take steps into an unknown future, I rest assured that God is directing our steps and leading our lives.

Happy Anniversary Honey! I love you so very, very much.

In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
~Proverbs 16:9