Thursday, August 18, 2011

They made it more fun!









My parents came for a visit from Minnesota last week and we sure appreciated all they did for us and to help us have a little more summer fun together. With a ratio of two adults to six kids considering the ages and special needs of three of them it's much more manageable to do activities with a couple more helpers. Grandma and Grandpa were more than helpers. They made life more enjoyable and eased some of the daily burdens that tend to weigh Chip and me down so much.

We spent an overnight at a cabin of our friends on Big Star Lake here in Michigan. It was perfect weather and there was a lot to do- including a boat, kayaks, tubing, building sand castles, relaxing and a family outing to the famous Jones' Ice Cream. My parents are so laid-back around our kids and just jump right in playing with them and doing other household projects like defrosting our upright freezer. Like I said... the fun stuff. =)

Chip and I marked our 16th wedding annivesary {on August 12th} and my mom made us a carrot cake- very similar to the one she made for us on our wedding day. I have to tell you this has probably been the hardest year for us on so many levels. More difficult even then the year we had our Old Depot incident. Some days Chip and I wonder how we manage to even stay together. For me it is proof that God exists. He is holding us together when we would rather split our problems in half or just let half the family have some breathing room to feel "normal" at times. I'm thankful for the miracle God keeps doing in our hearts and lives as He keeps us together. I hope we can look back years from now and see just how far we've come. But in the throws of the tough stuff it can be hard to see.

I'm still thankful for Chip sharing his life with me and we love each other to the core. It's just the fun isn't the same kind of fun we used to have and we're trying to live in the moments of wonderful that we do have each day and recognize that we are pretty lucky- evenso.

I think we know it inside.

My parents visit reminded me that we DO have so much to be grateful for. We DO have a lot of fun when we can make it happen and God DOES want to see our marriage through all seasons of our lives. I hope we're eating cake together- as a couple and as a family- for a long, long time.

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

I pray for you each time I come to "Visit" you here. I can tell your heart and sentiments are true to what you are asking for, what you are living and who you are. I hope God continues to put people in your life at the right time to ease your burdens and as the children grow that their independence allows you to step back and enjoy. Happy Anniversary and stay strong. I know how hard it gets and how it might seem greener on the other side...keep watering your side and let the light shine bright to allow you to see your beautiful world!
Hugs,
Megan

Jennifer said...

Awww, Wyndham isn't in her chair anymore ... I missed that update! Like the last poster, I too say an extra prayer for you. Stay strong - you're an inspiration.

Jody said...

Thanks, Megan and Jennifer. We appreciate prayers always! As for Wyndham, she is out of her chair and moving at therapy- 8 hours a week, but the majority of the time around the house she is still in her wheelchair. We're hopeful though! That's why she still needs prayers too. Thanks.

Anonymous said...

Your story is an inspiration, and you will look back down the road and see your path....my husband and me just celebrated 19 years on monday so I know the struggles of marriage and wonder how we do it somedays myself but then I realize God has a plan I just don't understand.....Thanks for your blog and sharing your life with all of us.

Debbie said...

I am a "lurker" but it is so wonderful to see Wyndham on her feet! Many prayers for your family!
Debbie S

rose808594 said...

I love you Jody!
Always in my heart, always in my prayers..
Rose

JP said...

Look at Wyndham!! She seems to be doing better on the walking front! Congratulations on your anniversary. It is a testament to your faith and to our great God that you two are still together and still happy about it. Couples have gone through much less and not survived.

Mantachie Memories said...

It is so great to see Wyndham standing up with the rest of the family. I know it has been a long rode for all of you (especially her).

Mantachie Memories said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Gayle said...

hubby and I have been married over 47 years, we love each other...we hate each other. Tonight was a negative one but I have learned to keep my counsel (sp?) I gave him credit for a great omelet and ignored his whining about a bill I didn't pay, Cost me $2.00 interest...ha. I don't laugh at him but I smile sweetly. We are very well situated and the money whine is only because I forgot the apple for dessert! It is always a dance, and you do have your hands full. Prayers are always being sent for you all.

Regina said...

Have not checked in recently - but love seeing Wyndham standing in these photos!!! As well as all the other wonderful smiles on your kids! So much love!

Lisa said...

Just reading through some of your posts. What a story you have. It is so encouraging. God really is working in & through your lives. Thanks for sharing. xx