My Newest Cousin

Introducing Leah Sirin Mynhier! She was born on Tuesday, May 20, 2008, at 5:20 a.m., and I absolutely love all 6 pounds and 12 ounces of her. Oh, what a precious darling (only a girl would say that :-)!

Disregarded Beauty

Life is more beautiful than any of us can begin to understand. And normally we don't even try to comprehend. The glory of just being alive. Of breathing fresh air, tasting the goodness of milk, listening to trees rustle or a Casting Crowns song, soaking in the rain, a little girl's smile, laughing at a joke Paul told, the gleam of the sun on the skyscrapers in downtown. Oh, life is so full and vibrant and delightful, if we only look around, and take the time to saturate ourselves. To count our blessings.

But we become busy, and we forget. Instead, we get caught up in the ruts, the rituals, the things that aren't going our way. If only our happiness was content with God's way and not our way. Everything would be so much easier. But our desires and sin nature won't let that happen. Praise God for sanctification.

God, please mold my will, my heart, and my desires to where you want them to be. To be content in all circumstances. Help me to surrender. And everyday to see the beauty in life.

Of course, there will still be the times when we feel like nothing can get rid of the pain, the grief, the hurt. BUT...

"The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Ps 18:2

Sometimes, healing is even more beautiful because we come closer to our Comforter.

By far, the most beautiful thing in the world, is the grace of God. Oh, how sweet the sound! I fall so, so, so short of being consumed with the gospel, short of being gripped and awed by the cross, and short of living it out. But that's why I'm thankful he gives me grace, and picks me right back up to keep moving forward.

This is the heart of my journey for the rest of my life.

~Christy

Paul Graduates

Paul graduates from high school at 2:00 pm this afternoon. We've waited for this day for a long time. I am extremely excited.