Life's Little... or BIG..surprises

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CLAYTON!
This week we've been celebrating Clayton turning THREE! I still can't believe 3 years and nine months ago I was sitting in utter shock trying to figure out what in the world I was going to do with FOUR kids! I remember telling Chad, "I'm sure I'm not pregnant, but I feel like I better check".. Then I remember viewing the results, calling Chad at work and walking around in absolute disbelief for about 9 months!


Well, it's true, God does have a much better plan than we can EVER imagine.

I just think about his rocky pregnancy,long labor day, the scary moment they thought he had a major heart problem, his stay in the NICU, all the visits with Cook's Children's Cardiologist, the expense of it, and then, Praise the Lord.. the day he was released from their care. It was ALL worth it. All the middle of the night feedings, the constant crying in the car... boy! he CRIED in the car!!, the paci throwing, all the hardships and IT WAS ALL WORTH IT..

As his birthday has come and gone, I can't help but think of how much better life has become in the last three years. God has blessed us beyond what we could have ever imagined. We've gotten a new home, sustained two businesses, watched both of our girls accept Christ and be baptized, maintained fantastic friendships that we will always cherish, and have built a fantastic marriage and continue to truly love each other. So, the next time you come upon one of life's surprises that you're not so sure you're on board with, just remember that God's plan is not only best, but phenomenal! Thank you, God, for our little surprise 3 years ago!

Now, if I can just remember these thoughts as he's throwing temper tantrums in the store, running away from me and laughing, saying NO, hitting siblings, running around the slippery swimming pool and tee teeing in the front lawn!




HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CLAYTON!