I was able to get outside
for a hike/jog yesterday. While I was outside, on a trail, amongst
greenery, leaves, trees, fog, patches of snow, along a streambed, I was so
struck with thanksgiving of where we currently are living. I realized I
shouldn't take for granted that just five minutes from my house are beautiful
forest trails that make me feel like I'm in the wilderness. I often am
among those that complain about the weather, the dreary grey and rain, but when
I take just a moment, I realize what blessings we have. If you take
anything from this letter, is that our family has been really learning what it
means to be thankful, and specifically thankful to the One who created us,
designed us, and directs us - each an every day - Jesus Christ. He is who
we are celebrating this Christmas, and He is the reason we have this year to
look back and be thankful for. If you want, you could stop reading there,
because that's the most important part, and what I love to share with anyone
wanting to know how God has changed our lives.
He
has blessed us with parenthood this last year. We have been learning the
beauty, challenges, fatigue, and joy that all comes with this new journey.
I'm learning even more about God's love and how He loves us, as I so
naturally want to love and care for my daughter, Esther. We can't wait to
celebrate her first birthday on Christmas Eve!
Tobin
graduated from Family Medicine Residency program in June, and has started
amongst the general working force, after 12 years post-high school education! This has also been an exciting time, and a
time to trust in the Lord. He has joined
a private practice, where he is using the gifting God has given him – to use
his hands for healing through osteopathic manipulation treatment. Through this “job,” Tobin has been able to
minister to so many lives.
I am working part time as a nurse practitioner, two days a week. A patient asked me if I work somewhere else
on the other days, I responded, “Yes, at home with my daughter.” The job at home is often more challenging
than my workdays, but I do love the smiles, laughs, and seeing the world
through her eyes. There have been
many snotty days, sleepless nights, PJ days, and tears – but I wouldn’t trade
any of it. And looking back, I am in awe
of how Faithful the Lord is, and what He has brought us through.
For
now, God is keeping us in Corvallis. We
are always open to whatever He might bring, but thankful for a home, work,
friends, a local body of believers that continually encourages us, ability to
grow our own produce, and a beautiful area we can enjoy!
As
each of us walks this journey of life, may we truly find purpose through our
Creator.
In those days when you
pray, I will listen. If you look for me
wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the
LORD. Jeremiah 29:12-14a
