Celebrating Eli

Yesterday was Eli's birthday (he turned 5!) and we celebrated the occasion at home. It was only the second birthday celebration he has had at home with his family.

I don't think I will ever forget the bittersweet September 14th which passed with Eli still in Ethiopia, before we were able to be with him. We knew our son was half a world away, not even aware that something as special as his birthday was happening that day. Our hearts were so full with anticipation of bringing him here (at last!), but I know mine was also breaking to not be with him.

And, like all things, God has made something beautiful in His time. Eli is home and we are together. As he continues to struggle with life's difficulties, I know that God can make that beautiful too in His time. And so we love him and we wait.

It was a wonderful day for Eli. A truly happy birthday!

Eli woke up with this big smile!

He liked his new shirt with the Ethiopian flag.

Happy 5th Birthday, Eli! I love you!

You have to love it that Eli sang along to his own "Happy Birthday" song!

It's Been a While

The other day I realized it's been a really long time since I shared anything here on "Blessed Life." I guess you could say I took the summer "off," although if you know me and my family, you know I definitely was not off! :) Now that the boys have gone back to school, and we are getting into new day-to-day routines, I am looking forward to having more time to spend here.

As summer ends, it seems that whenever I run into someone I haven't seen in a while, the big question always is, "How was your summer?" I admit I just don't know how to answer that question this year. The question reminds me of when someone asks "How are you?" but really only wants to hear a repsonse like "Fine." Most people would probably not really want me to go into details about how our summer really was. The truth is it was not an easy time, but God is seeing us through.

I am a big believer that our lives go through seasons. This past summer started a season for our family that is stretching us in new ways. Like all trials, I am confident that God will use this time to draw us closer to Himself and to each other.

The First Day of School in Pictures

Geoffrey and Eli have started a new school year! Here are some pictures taken at home. (Geoffrey, a 5th grader now, does not consent to having pictures taken at school. Ha!)

Making sure they are "looking good"

Waiting at the bus stop with Eli

Eli thought the bus looked much bigger than he had imagined it would be...

Here's to a great school year! May God keep them safe and help them grow more each day in His image.