Much of the younger years with my five kids included hands-on adventures. Experiencing life, not just watching videos on the computer, actually getting out there and making the most of our days. Sometimes it was a significant effort and much exhaustion followed, but memories were made, new relationships formed and learning happened. Spontaneous or planned made for unique opportunities and fun!

This picture is a snippet into the moments our family found adventure. There were many times we did this alone, but I have lost count on how many days we explored new places with one of my dearest friends and her kiddos. I have known her since our early days of teaching kindergarten. I have posted about her before, but today is another way to express my gratitude for our friendship. Her first child arrived four months before mine (23 yrs ago). Since then we have not stopped connecting with our kids. Time does change things, that is inevitable, but what my kids have in her is another ‘aunt’. These types of friendships are beautiful gifts. Our kids are much older and do not see one another as often, however, since she has been fostering littles over the years my youngest has had the opportunity to connect with them! It never ceases to amaze me to observe her willing heart to serve others. Her door is always open, people are bustling about her home, eating food, playing games, listening to music or finding a couch to sleep on! She has the gift of hospitality! God in his infinite creativity and wisdom fashioned her to be a beautiful, wise, loving, creative, godly, encouraging mother, wife and friend. Covid has taken away adventures in so many ways, but I know us, we will find ways to connect with one another. She will drive up with a tea/coffee and we will chat, laugh, cry and pray. It can be spontaneous or planned. Each time it builds into our friendship and I leave refreshed and grateful.

She is a faithful friend.

Recently I was listening https://shereadstruth.com/podcast/john-week-3-with-ann-voskamp/   When Ann Voscamp is introduced the words the interviewer says about her remind me what I say about H. I loved listening to their conversation and it reminded me of how the two of us have sharpened one another and talked about our love for Jesus. If you are looking for a great podcast, this one is worth listening to for sure!

Here is what is said about this podcast,

“For the third week of our Gospel of John reading plan, Amanda is joined by author and speaker, Ann Voskamp. You won’t want to miss their conversation about the rich reminders that we are to be shaped by God and His word over the things of this world. Join them and be encouraged by the safety and security that comes in remembering that Jesus is our Good Shepherd.”

 

If you want to see the amazing talent in my friend, you can find her @theknittednest   . Her hands are in a constant state of creative motion blessing others with colourful patterns and cozy gifts.

 

What adventure awaits you? Are there friendships that lift you to higher places when you are in the valley? I have this in her, I don’t want to take it for granted. Thank you, my friend. You are a gift from God!

 

Enjoy this beautiful worship music from Jonathon Ogden today! Thanks to my brother and SIL for introducing me to his music!!