These are a few of my favorite things...

Well, we are slowly but surely getting settled in our home. It has been quite the journey these past two weeks, but it is so obvious that God's grace and blessing is among us.

When we bought the house we felt like it was home from the beginning, but now it is slowly becoming ours. There are many things we enjoy about the house, but I do have some favorites. I will share them, I am sure, as time goes on, but I do have to share my two favorite things with you that are so special and dear to our hearts!

Below are pictures of two new trees that was given to us from Z's school. One tree is an Autumn Blaze, and the other is a Royal Red Maple. They were given to us as a house warming and a memorial for Sam. We will always have Sam with us, and I know one day when kids are here he sure would have loved to play outside in the leaves! The trees were so generous and it is great to think we will have Sam always with us. Thank you Lincoln!

Our house is becoming a home! I cannot wait to share more later!

Sam

This past week we sad goodbye to my husband's younger brother, Sam. Sam went home with the Lord due to an automobile accident in Iowa. He was 20 years of age coming home to be with the people he cherished the most; his family.

The video link is his testimony given through video clips that have been filmed throughout the past year. This was shown at his funeral service. It is so impactful. I admire Sam for his boldness and courage. If he can do that; why can't I? Am I truly living the life God wants me to? Am I doing everything in my power for the glory of God? Do I take everyday for granted when I am unsure if tomorrow exists? If I just had an 1/8 of what Sam had I could be making a difference too, so what am I waiting for?

http://vimeo.com/15751638

His testimony and love for the Lord is an encouragement to me even through all the pain I am baring. There are so many questions, feelings, and fears I have, but I just have to trust in the Lord. I don't have to like his plan right now, but I trust him.

Please pray for Z and his family. Please pray for me as I am grieving myself, but need/want to comfort my family. Z and I are still newlyweds and it is so difficult for me to not being able to take the pain away. I feel helpless, scared, but oh so vulnerable. There are a lot of unknowns, but again.... I trust in him.

Thank you my dear friends for you prayers and grace.