Traveling mercies.

Today my husband has to work in Dargaville. It is approximately 2 1/2 to 3 hours drive north of Auckland. Recently there has been flooding and other storm damage in the Northland. I always miss him when he's away, but especially when he has to sleep over somewhere. I just can't sleep when he's not home. I hate saying goodbye. I am just so paranoid. I have a runaway out of control over active imagination. I pray God will take care of him and give him traveling mercies.

So grown up

Yesterday we had lunch at a very nice Cafe in Thames, Coromandel. It seemed all their dishes were vegetarian, many gluten free and or dairy free as well. Anyway, I had recently heard that dairy allergies could be the cause for children needing grommets. So I decided to put Daniel on a trial dairy free diet. We are 98% vegan, but we were not religious about it. Now how ever, I am trying very hard to avoid dairy, for myself as well. Anyway. ....back to the actual story. At the cafe, Daniel looked at the food and said "mommy, just remember to get me something without cows milk in it." Ahw, I was so surprised. A 5 yr old setting an example to his mum. He understands why he can't have dairy, even if it is difficult. The other day he said " mommy, I really want some chocolate, I know I can't have it, but I really want some. " I love him so much.

Sleep, glorious sleep

I love my children. But I love my sleep as well. Ruben woke 3 times last night. Usually about 6 times. All 3 times had a small feed and went to sleep with no hassle. Put him in porta cot and I was able to get proper rest as well. Extra bonus! Daniel didn't crawl into bed with us either! I feel so refreshed this morning. Ready for our trip back home. Praise God for a good nights sleep.

To many more

Yesterday was Wouter's (husband) birthday. It was the 19th birthday that I celebrated with him. We've been a couple for almost 18 years. More than half of my life. Married almost 16 years. We have 6 beautiful healthy children. God is good. So many precious memories. So many lessons learned. Wouldn't change a thing.

Cookie power.

Our children often argue. Sometimes over seemingly silly things. But to them it is important. This morning, Daniel was very upset with his older siblings for not allowing him to play with their playmobil toys. The poor thing was terribly sad. I asked him if he wanted a cookie, and instantly his world was right again. He forgot all about the other children as we enjoyed our cookies together.

With Jesus in the family, happy is the home, happy is the home.
This is my goal as mother and wife. To bring Jesus into our home. To be a living example to those around me. Though I fall, I will rise again and place my hand in His. For his word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path . I'm not perfect and neither are my children. But I love them and we love Jesus. And I'd like to share some of our experiences with you and just maybe be an encouragement to others.