Aaaaggghh!

Well.....it's been one of those weekends.  

You know the type...

Dad's gone,

kids are fighting,

Mom's patience is wearing thin,

snotty noses, 

fevers,

teething,

did I already mention the pathetic example of patience displayed by Mom?

All I can say is that I am beyond thankful for new days,

fresh starts,

forgiveness,

and Jesus.

It's through the tough days that I learn that I can do nothing on my own.

It's the tough days that I find myself crying out to God for strength.

It's at the end of those tough days

-when the kids are asleep-

that those difficult moments seem so small

and my reaction to them seems 

so BIG

so disproportionate.

I am thankful that all of this brought about a great teaching moment for us.

I shared with the kids that I asked God for His forgiveness last night for my behavior.

Then I asked for forgiveness from them.

We talked about the fruits of the spirit:

Love,

Joy,

Peace,

Patience,

Kindness,

Goodness,

Gentleness,

Faithfulness,

Self-Control.

I am thankful that today was a better day.  

Devotional/prayer time/singing with the kids to reflect on Orphan Sunday.

Making handmade "Get well soon" cards for Great-Grandpa in the hospital.

Enjoying taco-in-a-bag that benefitted an amazing family.

Afternoon movie with popcorn at home.

Sledding and hot chocolate.

Watching Avery help Sawyer with his sight words.

Pizza.

Tucking my freshly bathed kiddos into warm beds.

Choosing to see the positive in today.