Thirty One.

Today is my birthday. 

I am 31. (Weird.)

Well, I can look back and say that life certainly does not always go the way we plan it for ourselves and I'm so thankful. God has a much bigger plan than we could ever hope or imagine. And while to some, staying home mothering little ones, cleaning house, and cooking meals doesn't seem like a big accomplishment, even on those hard days, there's no where else I would rather be. This is where God has placed me. There is nothing more important that I could have done with the past decade of my life than birth, nourish and nurture precious lives.  And it took me a while but I am now realizing that this is my calling. This is right where I should be. The home we live in. My husband who works so hard. These little children who call me Mama. This is my mission field. 

I remember saying in my early twenties that I never wanted to be one of those people who was always trying to reminisce about years gone by, trying to hide how old they were, thinking if only they were 10 or 20 years younger again. I will be satisfied and joyful in whatever season of life I am in right  now and enjoy it. I want contentment to be the state of my heart at all times.

So, here's to 31 wonderful years and hopefully many more. Thank you Jesus for this life that I've been given. Help me not to squander the talents and waste the time you've blessed me with. No matter what  happens in the years to come, I will continue to turn my eyes to You, the author and finisher of my faith. 

"I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12-13 NLT

"A man's heart plans his way but the Lord directs his steps."         Proverbs 16:9

Coffee with Ryan before he leaves for work, NOT washing any dishes and indulging in something chocolate-y before the days end are my big birthday plans. My heart is full.