Wild.

This past weekend, I was fortunate enough to go home for a few days.  It was awesome.  And exactly what I needed.  You see, I love the city, the life I have here, all of my friends, my school, my church, and everything I fill my planner with.  But, there are times when all I need is a clear sky full of stars, the quiet of my small hometown, my own bed, and my family to get me back on track.  

This past weekend was a good way to clear my head and refocus.  God has been teaching a lot lately - a lot about my desires and His will for my life.  So, I have taken the time to hash through a lot of what has been distracting me and consuming my thoughts.  And one lesson that I am constantly reminded of is how good my God is, His constant presence, and His unfailing love.  

Amen.

Another thing I have been reminded of is the blessing of family.  You may not know this, but I am one of five - right in the middle.  I have two older brothers and a younger brother and sister.  Growing up in a family of seven is crazy, I can assure you of this (and my parents would as well).  But, I would not change a thing.  However, back in the day of just four kids, I thought I had a rough life.  I was the only girl stuck with three crazy brothers - how terrible.  And I was convinced that this must change.  After many tearful pleas, my mom would faithfully tell me to pray that God would bless us with a baby girl.  Fourteen years ago, my Betsy came into this world and changed my life.  

The whole story as told by the eight-year old version of myself is documented below.  

Please note a few things:

1)  Punctuation must have a been a new concept to me.

2)  My math prowess was evident at a young age. 

3)  I think I was the last one to know that my mom was pregnant.

4)  The tidbit about pop and cookies is necessary to fully understand the situation.

5)  When Bets and I had our dark years, I used to blame myself for praying her into existence.  So sorry. 

My sister is now a fourteen year old force.  And even though she is taller and stronger than I am, I still see her as this baby that came into the world to complete our group of five.  I am so thankful - for her and all of my family.  

Betsers, I'm so proud of the person that you are growing into.  You will do great things - I have no doubt.  I am so blessed to call you mine.  

You are kind of wild, but I still love you.