June 1st was our one year anniversary in our new place. When Bubbles and I were reflecting on the day, I found the contrast from where we started to where we are now quite remarkable.
Just 365 days ago, I was six months pregnant, still sick, and exhausted. Having bought a house that had been on the market for 8 months and vacant for even longer, we had a lot of cleaning to do. Since I was unable to be near the harsh chemicals, my amazing family pitched in with lots of elbow grease and yard help. In temperatures over 100 degrees, our house goods were delivered and stacked into any open spot. We were living on Subway sandwiches and the kids were begging to go swimming. (Yeah, right). Bubbles' first night (and many subsequent nights) were very teary. Knowing that this move was perfect for our family, all we could do was be there for her.
Fast forward to June 1st, 2011. We woke up to a delicious breakfast, finished school and chores, and then went to a friend's house for the end of the year "banana split" home school party. I led the end of the year reflections as we went around the room and the kids mentioned something they were proud of that they were able to accomplish this past year. Everyone then headed to the pool where we swam for two hours and Bubbles and her friends devised every possible scheme to allow for more time together. At four o'clock, we rushed home to make dinner (which we were delivering to a parishioner who is dying of bone cancer). Our youth group had made him a banner for his room and so we delivered the banner, the dinner, and spent some time with him until we went home for our own dinner. Immediately after that, Hubby went back with his Knights of Columbus group to pray the rosary with Mr. Johnson. In between four o'clock and bedtime, Bubbles is fielding phone calls and text messages of friends wanting to know if she can play.
I told Bubbles that in my opinion, Christians are really bad about being patient. We want what we want when we want it. We think that our suffering is unnecessary or worse, a sign of a distant God. In reality, our suffering is our pruning by a loving Father. God's time is so eternal and ours is so short sided. Bubbles and I agree that God opened the door for us, faithfully led us, and then gently consoled us. In the end, he also rewarded us and our love of Him and trust in Him blossomed.
For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for your woe! plans to give you a future full of hope. Jeremiah 29:11
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