was not my best night.  In fact, upon reflection, I feel I looked a little like Carrie in the Exorcist ... not that I would ever have watched a movie like that, but I have heard about her character.  My swollen and red eyes are proof that I was emotionally disturbed and did not get the proper amount of sleep.  My head is throbbing and I am less than enthusiastic about being a homeschool, stay-at-home mom, with kids around all day instead of being able to send them skipping to some other institution so I can go back to my bed.

but then ...

I went into the bathroom to survey the facial damage and saw a gift that had been given to Neal and me some years ago, by a couple who are just plain "there".  Not there as in Carrie, but there meaning they can take it from us and they still offer unconditional love (and a kick in the pants when needed).  I could go on and on about them, but the point I am trying to make concerns the gift ... a daily verse flip pad of Max Lucado musings.  Here is today's:

We are covered by the Lamb, hidden in Christ.  When God looks at you, he doesn't see you; he sees Jesus.  And how does he respond when he sees Jesus?  He rends the heavens and vibrates the earth with the shout, "You are my Son, whom I love, and I am very pleased with you"  (Mark 1:11)

amazing.

Happy Birthday, Roger ... wish I could be there on Sunday.  Do you really know just how much you two mean to us?  I only pray I can someday be half of what you have been to Neal and me.

and Neal?  I am sorry.  Please forgive me.

I am working on it.

Posted by bestsister

that should not be without a comment from someone, but what to say? Except that you should dim the lights, get the wood stove glowing, and dance with Neal to Sara's "Roll to the Middle".

And, if you want me to cover for you on Monday while you stay home with hubby, I most happily will.