Christmas photos

Lessons

These past 30 days have been one of the most difficult times I have ever gone through.  I can't even go into detail, but I felt like I was in the worst nightmare that would never end.  I am thankful for God's love, protection and mercy.  Still have a long battle ahead, but each day is getting better.  I have learned to always be alert because you never know what people are facing.  It has also taught me to show more compassion and mercy to others.

Watching the kids play basketball has been my lifeline.  It is a hustle/bustle schedule, but just being able to take my mind off of things for a while was a gift. I treasured those moments.  I embraced the good moment to help me get through the bad moments.

And then the timing of God amazes me. I was given an amazing opportunity to teach Bible this year to 6th grade girls.  Actually, the position came open the first week of school and I asked to take it thinking there was no way he would give it to me, but he did.  I love my 6th grade girls.  Here was the note I received: "I can't even begin to tell you how huge an impact you had on Eva today.  She was touched so deeply by the fact you picked a gift tailored to her.  Your thoughtfulness and awareness of what she likes made her feel so loved.  It meant so much to me to see her feel so deeply-thank you for loving on my girl and I know you are loving on each of them just as you are for her.  I am so thankful that you are her Bible teacher this year. I know that had to be an investment for you but I promise you God took it and used it mightily."  Wow.....Thank you God for that encouragement tonight!!