Seven Years

Yesterday was my seventh Valentine's Day with Drew -- two years dating and five years married.  Seven years is a long time.

Five years ago -- our first married Valentine's Day!

Seven years ago, if someone had told me exactly where I'd be today, I wouldn't have believed them.

Sure, I figured I'd be married with kids, but the concept is so much different than the concrete.

I couldn't have imagined the incredible love that I have for Drew.  It grows every day.  What I felt then was only a tiny fraction of what I now feel for him!

I couldn't have imagined living outside of Dallas... and I definitely couldn't have imagined liking it! (It's taken me over a year to be able to say that.)

I couldn't have imagined how hard motherhood would be... and yet how fulfilling.

I couldn't have imagined how full my life would be with two wonderful children and one more on the way.  How much they complete my life and make it worth living.

I couldn't have imagined a more perfect family.  I truly am blessed by God every day that I get to spend with my husband and babies.  I just have to keep reminding myself on the hard days! ;)

I so needed to take a seven-year step back and look forward to today with new eyes.  There are so many things that I wouldn't have chosen, or I would have chosen, but in different timing.  But taking a step back, I can see the hand of God in everything and, thank the Lord, He knows better than I!

And it's a comfort to know that even though I can't imagine what life is going to be seven years in the future, I know it'll be better than anything I could plan.

If you're feeling overwhelmed today, take a step back.  Look at your life a year ago, five years ago, ten years ago.  Take time to really look at your blessings and acknowledge them.  And above all, know that God is good and that He only has your best interests at heart.

I promise, it'll change your perspective.