Every moment ...

I've been reflecting quite a bit the past couple of weeks on the precious moments I have with Claire. She is growing so fast and I'm very sentimental as we move on to each new stage. As cherishing these moments has been on my heart, I've had to strangers the past two days comment on how quickly time passed for them as they now have daughters in their mid-twenties.

Claire still has such a sweet and loving spirit-which makes each moment so easy to love. She had learned how to reach and grab for me to let me know she wants me to hold her - which seems to be more often than not. We were in the store yesterday and she was so happy - waving and smiling at strangers. Then, all of the sudden, she dropped her head and started her "fake" pouty cry. She just wanted me to hold her - and so I did. I love each of these perfect moments.

I'm striving to be intentional about these moments where she just needs mama. I had my hands full this afternoon making Ethan banana muffins. It was a challenge to hold her and fill the muffin cups. :)

I'm also not taking for granted these days at home with her. As parents, we only have a few short years where we are the primary influence in her life. (I'm already dreading her first day of kindergarten.)

These days, she just needs her mama and their isn't a greater feeling in the world. I know sometimes she will just need her Daddy ... then someday her friends ... and then eventually a boy. (Lord, help us!)

For now, I'm thankful for the peace in my heart that God has given me. It's such a relief for me to be spending my time just the way he wants me to. Weeks ago I felt Him telling me that as my ministry has shifted I needed to be giving my family 75% of my time while continuing to give the student ministry the other 25%.

As always ... thankful for clear direction and peace in my heart.