Because life is too short to pretend you don’t want roses from your man…

 Because life should be vibrantly fragrant; a sweet aroma of praise to Creator God…

 Because China is meant to be used and enjoyed, not boxed up in the basement or attic…

Because candles are meant to be lit (and aren’t t expensive, so start lighting them and celebrating everyday moments)…

Because the kids are growing up so fast and I need to slow down and look them in the eye and really connect and enjoy them, not just manage them…

Because it is a Friday and he is home from work and we are a family; let’s celebrate an ordinary day, full of imperfection and grace and love…

Because I didn’t share before and they really wanted some…

Because my 3 year old is more important to me than China and keeping things neat and tidy…

Because we all want to lick the platter clean but don’t think it is dignified; memories more important than manners tonight…

Because miracles still happen…like babies formed in once infertile wombs,

and strained relationships catching glimpses of hope, 

and “type A” personalities learning to let loose and dance like a crazy fool.

 Because what you are ready to give up on might be waiting around the corner…

Because life is moving and you have this moment to really live and take it all in, 

to breathe

to be free

to mute what THEY might think

to laugh the belly laugh 

to hum whenever you feel like it

to wear a disheveled ponytail

to eat chives from the yard and not go brush your teeth

to not let the criticizers steal your smile

to take a deep breathe

long and slow

and to see

and to live

because it’s a gift

He is the gift

breathe Him in

He’s here.