My kids are growing up too fast. I’ve been saying that for at least 15 years. One of them recently got her driver’s license, started a job, and attended a college preview day. She reminded me that next Christmas will be her last before she graduates high school.

Selah.

It’s wild how much you can want them to grow up and be independent and start their own life, while also never wanting them to leave because life is so much sweeter with them around.

So I’m trying to say yes a little more, in an intentional attempt to make more memories and savor the moments we get to spend together.

Last weekend, we went thrift shopping with some of her youth group leaders & friends. We had the best time! She was like an adult with her first paycheck from her new job, finding some cute new clothes and enjoying time with some of her favorite people.

At one of our stops, I got this mug:

It was new with tags, priced low, and when I saw it I couldn’t help but laugh. It feels sarcastic, but it’s also the truth.

I am thrilled to be here.

Last Wednesday, I celebrated my 1-year work anniversary, and I’m so grateful for my “new” job that came at the perfect time. I love the people I work with, I love that I get to use my strengths and talents (and that they’re appreciated), and I love that we get to support families and children with unique needs. It’s a non-toxic work environment with checks and balances, policies and procedures. I truly am thrilled to be there.

Yesterday was one of my scheduled days off (because I’m still transitioning from motherhood/ministry life to a full-time job… even after a year 😂). But I must say: I’m thrilled to be here, too. I love being home with my family, helping my kids with their schoolwork, cleaning, reading, doing puzzles, going for walks together.

“Wherever you are, be all there!”

Jim Elliot

Since I started my new job, it’s been my goal to be fully present, wherever I am. It’s not always easy, but it’s been a good principle to strive for. If I’m at work, I’m all there. If I’m with my family, I try to be all there.

“Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”

Matthew 6:34 (MSG)

To all of the places I’m thrilled to be… sometimes the saying is sarcastic. Especially during tough circumstances and hard parts of the journey. And I think that’s okay. I think both can be true.

I’m thrilled to be here, on this earth, to be alive at such a time as this. But then I remember that this isn’t my forever home. This isn’t all there is. Life here is like a flash; it doesn’t last forever.

The current season definitely feels like winter, but the new year has given me some fresh inspiration and motivation toward good habits and spiritual disciplines. I feel like I’m re-discovering my purpose, and walking in new levels of freedom.

Despite all the difficulties and challenges that are (at times) overwhelming, I’m grateful for life and breath and purpose. I’m thankful that I can be present in all the places I’m called to be.

Simply put: I’m thrilled to be here.