Overwhelmed

I am overwhelmed this morning.  This is nothing new. So many things can bombard us and overwhelm us, it seems.  Particularly when we become convinced that we have to live life with all of its challenges in our own strength.  Yes, I am overwhelmed, but not in a bad way. :)

I learned this morning that a friend had her baby and my heart is singing with their family at this precious gift! No, this is not her first child or even her second, but the eighth child in their family!  Many people shake their head and say something like, "That's crazy!  Who would want eight kids!?"

Soon after Jimmie and I were blessed with Clay and then Jennie people would often counsel me that I needed time away from the kids.  They meant well and only had my best interest at heart, but as I began to look around and study this thing called parenting, I came to a different conclusion.  Time spent WITH my children was really what was needed!!  Time spent teaching, loving and enjoying these little precious people was what we ALL needed.  No, my children are not a burden.  They truly are a gift...a reward in fact. :)

This morning I am listening to Clay's new recording. And marveling at the gift of music that he has been given. Jennie is out the door to work. She has her apartment all set up and is starting UNM in the fall to pursue her passion in theatre.  Today is Marissa's 12th birthday. She has been blessing our family for 12 years now.  Mason got up early and worked and worked on a Happy Birthday poster for his sister. I am so thankful that God has allowed me to be "Mom" for each of these precious people.

Overwhelmed.

Psalm 127 :3  "Behold, children are a gift of the Lord; the fruit of the womb is a reward."