This week I said good bye to barefeet and baby bottles

The cold is subtly returning to our days

Snow is in the forecast for tonight and tomorrow.

There are aspects of winter that I just love. Of course there are many that I don't, but it's a package deal

As things change and the dynamics of life constantly shift and turn, I am finding out how important it is to keep my balance on the unchangeable. I am learning the value of finding the treasure of contentment in whatever circumstance I am in.

The days where we could run outside in bare feet (we are all perpetually barefooted) and giggle in the warm sun are behind us.

The days of running boys up and down the hills in their sleds and returning in doors for the warm comfort of hot chocolate are so close I can feel them.

Will I miss the summer and all it offers us? Oh my, yes.

Am I leaning forward in my seat in anticipation as I contemplate all that is to come? Yes. The warm glow of Christmas lights, baking with little boys, seeing my family, laughing with Dave during the traditional "Elf" viewing, stolen kisses in the snow.

See? There are good things coming, there are anticipated new experiences on the way. But that doesn't mean the things that are behind us will not be missed and treasured.

On Saturday I went through my kitchen cupboards and cleaned out all of the baby bottles. My cupboards are noticeably roomier now.

We are sleeping through the night for an average of 9 hours now. Every one of us.

Our calendar has at least one event, most days two, scrawled on every single square.

I am pushing through insecurities more and pursuing dreams.

I don't see my husband on Mondays at all.

I am communicating with my husband more than I ever have.

God is prompting me in thinking past myself and my family and he is bringing some very surprising and new ambitions to my heart.

Most of these things signify changes. Shifting of seasons in our family.

There are good circumstances and challenging ones that are altering the outlook of our family.

The two biggest changes right now:

• The baby turning into a toddler, and our leaving all things baby behind.
• Dave becoming a full time student, in addition to his full time job, all that being a husband and father entails, and various ministries.

The last month has looked so different for us. I haven't blogged as much because my whole daily routine has changed so much. Besides that "my" laptop has been stolen by some guy who claims he needs it for school work. Really - what is school work when there are blogs to write and facebook friends to stalk? Geesh, priorities people!

So, as my life adjusts, diversifies, and transitions, I hope to be able to still document what we are learning here and there, as time allows.

The documentation for today is this:

"I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. "

Philippians 4:11-13

May it be so.