I had a day of wrong choices this past week. In the midst of the day I knew I needed to reset but it wasn't until my hands, and one of my kids, were covered in mud that my reset came. God was faithful, and is faithful, and gives grace with forgiveness. 

We just went on a road trip across the country on short notice. My kids were part of this long car trek, and watching them adapt and be flexible with their attitudes confined in their seats reminded me that I can choose my attitude when life happens to me too. 

This is Part A.
I have had 3 miscarriages. They are painful in many ways. If you have had a miscarriage, I am so sorry. You are not alone. Here is the first part of my story. If you know someone who has had a miscarriage, here are 5 tips for how to be with them through their pain. 

Today was a hard day -- my daughter starting kindergarten had to completely let go of her dream of starting kindergarten at school, and I quit my job. There are lots of hard things we face in life, but we do not face them alone. 

Sometimes my kids have the best intentions but they make big messes. I make messes in my life too. God is patient and merciful. He is not overwhelmed by my messes and He always welcomes me with open arms. 

Our son had GERD (gastro-esophageal disease). It threw our life into upheaval for many months. There is hope!

*This is not about medical advice, I'm just sharing how my family survived the trials that come with baby GERD. 

My husband joined us on or pool trip today. Our kids were not expecting him and were thrilled when he joined us: he made things that much more fun for us. Do we invite God in to what we do every day? 

Sometimes it is very obvious when my kids want something but they never actually ask... Do we remember to ask God when we need or even want something? He hears us!

My kids are works in progress. Sometimes the best form of discipline is to sit down and speak to them with all love and grace.* I'm a work in progress too. God is always ready to embrace me, US,  with forgiveness, love, and grace. 

*Disclaimer: this is not always the best choice. I am sharing what has worked for me and my family in specific instances.

Are there people or circumstances in your life that are scary and intimidating? You are not alone in them.