Last month I started the practice of recounting what I learned each month. I believe it’s important to see how I’ve grown instead of always focusing on where I need to grow. This practice of looking back to look ahead is helping me be more grateful, more intentional, and just more me. Grab a journal or piece of paper and join in why don’t you. Click on over here to see how others are recounting their Aprils.
1. I still love watching my husband preach/speak.
Early in the month Keith and I had the opportunity to spend a weekend at a Hispanic church participating in their missions-focused weekend. I took the above picture Friday night when Keith was speaking (with an interpreter since it was an all hispanic congregation). While he spoke, I was once again so proud that he’s my husband and so grateful that he allows God to use him however he chooses.
2. Being a 1-car family in a family of four is not fun.
Recently our son’s car decided it wanted to visit the repair shop and require some not-in-the-budget car repairs. Needless to say, keeping up with four different people’s driving needs with one car is near impossible and daily frustrating. When Keith and I were young married, one car suited our needs just fine. But when the 17-year-old prefers you drop him off down the street from the school, someone’s needs aren’t getting met:) This lesson leads me to #3 . . .
3. Dogs are vital to the stuck-at-home mom.
With just one car in the family for now, I get to stay home a lot. While this allows me to work efficiently, it also forces me to deal with cabin fever on a weekly basis. Harvey keeps me sane with his daily walks and companionship. Please note just because you see me chatting with him doesn’t mean I’ve totally lost it: I’ve just become Tom Hanks and made him my Wilson.
4. I’m a fan of hiking, but my knees aren’t.
Earlier this month, Keith and I did an 8-mile mountainous hike with some friends. The view from the top was spectacular and worth the hike. However, my knees weren’t convinced. In fact, the last mile down had me interceding for supernatural strength or a piggy-back ride.
5. God’s new nickname is Jehovah-Nick-of-Time
We are finally moving into a new place this weekend. There was a time I was worried we’d be sleeping in the car. But that worry quickly disappeared as God provided everything we needed at just the right time we needed it. Seven days before our lease was up, we found a place that we love. Then we were able to extend our apartment lease for a few days until the house was available (that’s only because the next renters backed out). Finally, I went to the mailbox one afternoon and discovered a sweet and unbelievably generous gift, one that was a direct answer to prayer. All this occurred one week before becoming “homeless.” The truth is while I think God is working in the nick-of-time, He knows it’s simply right on time.
6. God sees dreams and clears paths as we work.
For quite a while I’ve wanted to attend a writing conference. If you’ve never investigated one, they don’t tend to be affordable. A friend told me about one taking place this July in Michigan. I checked into it and then applied for a scholarship. I went back to working on my writing class website and forgot about it. Recently, I got an email saying I’d been approved for one of the scholarships. I was overjoyed and knew that God was clearing a path for me to continue pursuing His purpose for me. Can’t wait to see what else he does as I pursue this dream.
Unpacking Life 
Fun list. What is the name of the conference in Michigan? I’m attending She Speaks in July in North Carolina. But it would be good to hear about others. (BTW – Found you on Chatting at the Sky. I love her link up for what I learned.)
Jennbuell, the name of the conference is She Speaks. It’s a speaking/writing conference in Grand Rapids, MI that happens the end of July. I’ve heard great things about it. Carol Ken is the author of Speak Up. So glad you found the blog!
That’s too funny that there are two writing/speaking conferences in July with the same name but in two different states. Hilarious. Thanks for the info. I’ll check it out.
The conference scholarship is such a gift and clearly God making the way for you! Congrats!!!
I’ve learned that once you past 40, birthdays are just another day, and most people don’t even remember – including family…but life goes on. I’ve learned that I’m not too old to do 2 road trips in 6 days with 2 teenage daughters, and the memories i make with them in the process are worth 12 hrs in a car. And I’ve learned that I can help lead a small group, even though I feel woefully under qualified and inadequate.