Amazed...

This summer has been so far the best summer of my life! I don’t even know where to begin to state the reasons why. It’s difficult to share absolutely everything (more will be revealed in future posts), but I will share what I can.

First of all, I’ve had the opportunity to travel more than any other summer of my life! I now have imprinted in my heart and memories some unforgettable adventures. I got to experience new places both on my own, with family, and with new friends I’ve made along the way. I’ve seen God working every step of the way. While I wrote about my trip to Massachusetts in my last blog entry, I still hold memories and friends made there so close to my heart.

Most recently I took to trip to my home state of New Jersey. The purpose of my trip was to fly to Lima, Peru so that I can spend some time with my grandmother. God had other plans. Instead my brother and I stayed in New Jersey and were able to spend some great times with some old childhood friends. Their hospitality was so encouraging. The laughs I had with my brother and the talks-I will always hold dear to my heart. We ended up visiting the World Trade Center in New York before coming back home. What a privilege to have been able to experience some time there. The reflection pools were truly a special place. As people stood around, I could feel peace and unity, in such a busy city. 

Just a couple of days ago I drove with my boys to Isla Morada in the Florida Keys. We stayed in the most beautiful hotel right by the marina. We paddle boated for the first time together and then in the evening, we lied together on a hammock under the bright starts just talking about how awesome nature is and then we prayed. I know my boys (and I) will hold this memory so close to our hearts forever.

Just today I drove back to the Florida Keys, but this time to share a special adventure with some great friends. I got to jet skiing for the first time in my life right in the middle of the ocean! Not only that, but right in the middle of a rain storm! It was quite a unique experience. What a way to end my summer vacation.

I want to thank my awesome God and Father for the opportunity to have experienced such an amazing summer. I want to thank him for my family, my old friends and new friends.

I realized something important today, or at least I was reminded of it for sure. I deserve NONE of this. I don’t deserve God’s amazing grace and his blessings. I walked away from him for four years of my life and yet He not only called me back, He has also given me a second chance. He’s given me a second chance to be the mom He knows I can be and a second chance to be a good daughter, sister and a faithful friend. He’s given me a second chance to live my life to the absolute fullest! I am so very much looking forward the future like never before in my life! I look forward to growing even more in my walk with God in ways beyond I ever thought I could. I look forward to building even more great memories in the upcoming school year, both at work, with my family, with my old friends, and with my new friends.

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20).