Heaven is Real

This week had plenty of challenges, physically and emotionally. Mom had surgery and it went well. It was good my brother was along as it was physically challenging for me with lots of walking and lugging stuff. I am heading down to see her and check on her progress today. She needs my help and I am glad to do it. She certainly did enough for me over the years. What a great mom she was if I had flu or was sick! Now it is my turn to do some care-taking and attending to her needs.
The senseless violence in the news is heartbreaking and disturbing. Evil is ever present and we, as Christians, need to be vigilant and pray. We can also realize our enemy is not guns. They are mere tools. Yes, make people register and use good sense with their use but do not make us a nation of unarmed people. Slaves are unarmed....not free people. It does nothing to stop violence and evil really....may deter a small amount of crimes of passion but I really do not think it would make a difference. I think the issue is the heart of a man/woman.  I will encourage us retaining the right to be armed as citizens of a free nation. I also do not believe we should take the law into our own hands. Love is the only force that overrides hate. Let us remember that love is not necessarily a feeling but a verb, an action word. Do love and you may feel love. Forgive and leave vengeance to God. I am very sad for the empty arms of the parents and the chilling reality that they will not see those children/adults who were murdered until heaven if they are people of faith in Jesus Christ. I entreat you to choose to put your faith in Jesus Christ if you have not. There is no security anywhere but in Him.
Be blessed and be thoughtful over this Christmas Season.
If you have not considered Christ before I suggest a read that may encourage you. Heaven is Real by Todd Burpo. I read it to Jack when he was close to dying and he received renewed hope from it.

Nashrock and Thanksgiving 2012

 Hey you  really grew since I saw you this summer! I bet you don't remember me. Lucas you are adorable!

 Judah is as full of energy and smiles as ever. I really enjoyed him a lot. He kept me on the move.

 Auntie Cha Cha got in on some serious story reading....actually I read to Judah most nights (4 books) before bed. That was really fun...especially the Maurice Sendak ones.

 Auntie Jessi got in on some diaper changing and other important activities. She is game. Lucas loves her.

 I made Thanksgiving dinner. It was pretty good. The pies were resting and waiting for the 'moment' of inclusion.

 Let's see....Mashed potatoes, two kinds of stuffing, Brussel sprouts with bacon, turkey and gravy, corn casserole and Lingonberry preserves. I am getting hungry for a rerun.

 Here it is! Lucas got his own birthday pie and he really enjoyed it. One year old on Thanksgiving!

 Snazzy new shoes from the Aunties....he looks like they appeal to him as he wanted to play with them.

 Oh the joys of a flashlight...Lucas was enthralled and luckily did not drop it on his toe!

 I caught a bit of mommy and the boys having couch time. they took turns pummeling her and giggling.

 A view from the stairs. Playpens are invaluable to mothers. You must have a way to corral them for awhile. Lucas fortunately likes to read all his hard books so it is not torture for him.

 He was having PB&J on bread. I did not cut off the crusts but he ate down pretty close to them.

 This child has a very engaging smile. He can turn it off and on for the camera but it is not really insincere. He has laughter in his eyes too.

Judah lined up all the dirt toys and I caught a shot of his hard work. Lucas loves the dirt and often carries lots in with him.....
I had a lovely visit. Jamie took some shots with her camera and I await their arrival on fb or where ever she posts them. I want one of the family shots for my wall. We really had fun.