This weekend has reminded me of Michael's early days in the Navy...HURRY UP and WAIT!! We were scheduled to play baseball, but due to rain it kept getting postponed. Here is a picture of Jacob during one of the many rain delays. We still had to hurry to get to Knoxville for the scheduled games, but then we had to sit around and wait. We finally did get to play one game this weekend. Our family took advantage of the time. We spent the afternoon in Bass Pro Shops just looking and enjoying being together. I have noticed since our older boys are now in their teens people look at us more when we are all together than they did when all of our children were small. Perhaps it is because all 7 of us take up more space or maybe they just aren't use to seeing teenagers with their parents and siblings having an enjoyable time. While we were in the store, a man stopped our oldest son and started talking with him. It was apparent that Matthew knew this man, but I didn't have a clue who he was. As they were talking, the man asked Matthew who all the kids belonged to. Matthew grinned and said they were all his siblings. The man thought he was joking, and quickly realized that Matthew was serious. He was amazed and a bit dumbfounded. He told Michael and I that we had a nice family while shaking his head upon leaving.
I also noticed the people at the ball park watching us. Have you ever felt like you were in a fish bowl being observed? They seemed surprised that our teenager would openly show me affection in public. The people on our ball team were not mean they were just curious. I guess they haven't seen all of us together either. I can only imagine how other LARGER families must feel when they all go to places together. After all, we only have 5 children! I guess it is all in your perspective. I don't see us as having a large family. It just feels right.
grace and peace,
julie
3 comments:
"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her" Proverbs 31:28
As I was reading the sweet story of your children and family, this verse came to mind. You don't see families with so much love and especially don't see the children blessed to be with their family and parents. What a great and bright "light" your family is!! Keep shining.
ashley
Ashley,
I do see family as a testimony to the outside world. I believe that it is a powerful tool that the Lord uses to draw people to Him. I can only imagine the looks you and your family must get when you are out. I smile just thinking about it! Hope you are feeling well during this early part of your pregnancy. It was always a bit challenging for me during those early months. I will be praying for you.
grace and peace,
julie
Yes! We do get the looks. We find it quite humorous when we file in somewhere and people are silently counting. It never fails for at least one person to comment on our family and how well behaved they are. You are so right - Families are a true testimony to the world!!!
I am feeling great. Those first weeks, I just wanted to lay in bed. I was so tired. I took naps when my little ones did. It was hard for me to get things done. I think I was a bit anemic (sp?) too which made me weak. Once I started taking iron, I was a new woman! Thanks for your prayers.
ashley
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