Life is Very Good

I really do have a blessed life. I've been thinking about this post for quite some time. I have hesitated to write it because I am sorely aware that some of the things for which I am most thankful might be sensitive areas.

It isn't my desire to offend anyone, or hurt anyone's feelings - only to express thanks.

I get to be a mom. Not only do I get to be a mom, but I get to be Mom to really truly two of the greatest kids ever. My kids are kind and thoughtful, not to mention really smart. We've been blessed to be able to provide them a really great education that we feel confident will allow them a solid foundation on which to build a successful life.

I have great parents. Just like all parents, I'm sure they made it up as they went along. They love(ed) us very much. If you've read my blog for long, you know that my mother passed away in June of 2004. Even during her illness I was blessed. I live close enough to my parents that I was able to be a part of her care and a support to my Daddy. Now I'm blessed that I get to have Jean (my Daddy's new wife) be a part of my family.

I get to be self-employed. For 18 years now, Philip and I have operated Legacy Travel. The travel agency industry has undergone huge changes in this 18 years and we've enjoyed every bit of it.

I still get to have fun. Even with 18 years in this industry, I'm having more fun now than ever. Late last year I launched Wild Travel Deals. I am forever fascinated by the wild guesswork scientific process involved in promoting specials to a nationwide audience.

I get to have a great husband. Philip is a brilliant visionary, although I don't often give him enough credit. He is a great dad and I there isn't anyone I would rather enjoy these blessings with.

I go to a great Church. For over 10 years I've been a member at Fellowship Bible Church North. With a church background like mine, I am forever fascinated and grateful for the focus on staying relevant to today's culture. I never knew Church could be so great. Not only the larger Church body, but I've been a part of the same small group (a "LifeGroup") for almost as long as I've been at Fellowship. These people are my larger family. I love them.

I could go on forever. I get to travel, I have a great home, great friends. I have a friend in my life who has known me since I was 12 years old, knows every horrible thing about me and for some reason loves me anyway.

I am also acutely aware that tides can quickly turn. It all comes from the hand of God. The greatness and the sorrow. Job 2:10 says "Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"

I almost hate to publish this post. It's almost as if I'm asking for trouble. I don't want any sorrow, but if it comes, I know that God has allowed it and that He'll provide me a way through it.