Beach

My husband and I share a love for spontaneity (when we're not exhausted), so when we woke up earlier than normal yesterday, the beach was a no brainer. It was the perfect day.

Lincoln did surprisingly well. He loved the feeling of the sand against his toes. He was fascinated with the seagulls, otherwise known as beach pigeons, roaming about and scouting for food. He made it a point to walk up to every stranger within 10 feet of our umbrella and give them a high-five (extrovert in the making, I'm sure).

I never imagined how much I would enjoy just watching him experience new things. It's one of the many amazing joys of being a parent. 

But the trip was not without tears (keeping it real): during the car ride both ways, on the beach when he realized the strength of the waves crashing against the shore (he was terrified actually), and of course when the very last Boardwalk fry was gone. For us, these short-lived episodes were terribly minor in comparison to how much we truly enjoyed being together. 

I know I say it a million times, but I'm so very thankful.

Care for the Orphan

A couple from my church just recently signed up to be foster parents and had their first overnight stay last night. They hosted a cute little brown-skinned kid with big bright eyes, a huge smile and cheeks for days. 

I was so happy for them. We'd been praying for them to get the right child, and for the experience to be a pleasant one.

Today, that sweet, adorable boy was gone. The courts ordered him back home, and they told us he cried when it was time to go. 

For some reason, maybe because I have such a heart for orphans, I was deeply saddened by the news. I cried on my husband's shoulder tonight, as I do whenever life gets too overwhelming. I can't help but wonder what that little guy is doing at this exact moment. I pray he's somewhere safe and protected. I pray he has enough of everything - food, clothes, opportunity. And most of all, I pray that one day, he will make the best life decision possible and accept Jesus as his savior.

Wherever you are in the world tonight, sweet boy, I am praying for you, and I am contemplating how I too, can respond to God's command to care for the orphan.