How are things going?

That sounds like a simple question, but since "fine" isn't an answer I usually give, and my friends who ask this question really want to know how things are, I have to pause a bit before answering. Today, my friend asked me this question. We haven't had the opportunity to chat much in the past two or three years, my pause was pretty long. She said, "It looks like you are taking inventory!" Well, I was! Start with my husband; what would she want to know about how he is doing and how much do I want to share? He still has his job and that is a good thing. Not much more to say.

I wish I saw more of John and Paul and their families, but it isn't often. The grandsons are sweet and so cute, but not much to report at this time and my friend doesn't know them. James? Things are going well with him and his family. They are looking for a house to buy and occasionally I get to babysit for them. I get to see my granddaughter more often, because they live much closer. Good deal! Then Rose... while she has not be able to get a job and no money for school, she has been indispensable at home helping to lighten the load and enabling me to get some things done I could not do without her help. Joel and Ben, well they keep getting bigger and they are trying to catch up to me in height. It won't be long now. Joel starts high school this year and Ben starts Junior High. My how time flies!

But my friend wasn't very interested in these people, she really wanted to know how Beth and Ezra were doing. She remembers all the medical issues they used to have, so wanted updates on those. Now I am sorry that I didn't tell her of some of the more exciting things, like Beth and Ezra learning to read! Their speech is getting clearer and easier to understand, but it does help to have context. Beth and Ezra got their reading books out. Beth took on her "big sister" role and worked with Ezra with his book, then she went on to read hers. Ezra wanted to read her book, but she told him "no! Beth's" then continued reading her book. She doesn't want any help! She is such a big girl! and a big sister!

Instead, my friend heard about cardiology, hematology, ear tubes and hearing aids. There was so much more to that conversation. She did hear about how smart Ezra is when he enters a room, he has it all scoped out and he knows the exits and how well guarded they are. I'm glad my friend is interested in all the changes we have seen in Beth and Ezra as they grow up. She loves to watch their personalities bloom. How Beth has now decided that she can do things without me at Awana.

It's been an interesting journey. I'm thankful for so many of my friends and family that have walked with us on this journey! I'm thankful that so much of what I have learned, I can pass on to others that need the same encouragement that I have received.

God is good!