What have you done for Me lately?

God has a subtle way of saying things at times.  He can take a simple comment and turn it into a deep and profound lesson.  As I was digging around on my blog, I noticed I have not really posted that much about anything recently; 1 post this month to be exact.  So...I decided to post and began thinking, "I really don't have anything to post about".  Then the small voice says "If you dont have anything to post about, what have you been doing with your time?  What have you done for Me lately?"  OUCH!  OK God, you got me right there!  After much thought, this is what I've come up with:  I've not been serving in the HPC outreaches, but I've been serving my family none-the-less.  

We've all taken turns being sick.  Had to put my car back in the shop so they could say they don't know what the problem is.  Very busy at work, rearranged the living room after de-Christmasing the house (yes, just made up my own word), had coffee with friends and studied Esther (a Beth Moore Bible study) with friends. Love that group!  But the best thing I've been a part of in January was in North Carolina.  

We left on a Wednesday at 2:30pm to arrive in Parris Island, NC at 3:45 am.  One very long drive with Mickey Mouse Clubhouse playing over and over.  Didn't really know what to expect.  Got up for Family Day with a "lack of sleep" hang over.  This day changed my view...actually my life.  I was able to see things through the eyes of a young man who'd walked every inch of that depot.  We went to bed early Thursday night to get up early Friday morning for a graduation like no other!  It was bone-chilling cold that morning.  The wind seemed to cut through even the toughest man like a knife!  As I watched with chill bumps, the newest group of Parris Island's finest marched into the building to the tune of the Marine band.  The band proudly played our anthem as the flag was raised and tears streamed.  My heart raced at the thought of all of these young men dedicating themselves to protect something I love so much:  our country and our freedom.  

Among that group was my son-in-law.  He graduated from the United States Marines this month, and WOW!  What an accomplishment that is for him (and every other one of the several hundred guys that graduated that day)!  I've witnessed first hand what it's like for the families of the Marines (and every other branch) watching my daughter & granddaughter.  They miss their loved one for things like birthdays, holidays, Christmas mornings, first words, and so much more.  And that loved one serving feels every second of it too.  My heart goes out to all of our military and their families.  They deserve so much respect and honor for their sacrifice for me/you and passionate love for our country.  Jesse will be in the Marines Reserve once training is over.  We are so proud of him.  

I also celebrated my last birthday in the 30's a week or so ago.  I think its one of the best and most memorable birthdays I'll ever have.  No expensive gifts...just from the heart.  To top it all off, my entire family (Jesse included since he happened to have 10 days leave at the same time) went to eat at Olive Garden.  Wonderful day!  Wonderful family!  Speaking of wonderful:  Here is a pic of Miles from Christmas in one of her dresses.  She is absolutely the most precious thing!  ...even if she calls me "habbah" instead of Honey.  I'll take every "habbah" she wants to blurt out!