Accomplishment!

Sorry for the posting delay - we've been without internet for 7 days, and even when I had it I couldn't download the pictures I wanted to add. So - I'm back!

The one picture is of Kasey and I after winning the battle against a truckload of yucca. For a bit we thought the yucca might win, but we prevailed. This picture doesn't show our fellow laborer, Casey Bryan (son-in-law extraordinaire). We started working on the yard Friday evening with my parents pitching in. Between the 4 of us (Casey hadn't arrived yet) we probably put in 12 man hours that evening.

The other picture is a shot of our "arbor" that is covered in grapes (we were surprised to find out). This picture easily represents 18 hours of work over 2 days X 3 - well over 50 hours of work. I still have the scars on my arms to prove it.

It has been a bittersweet labor. I love working with my kids and I'm amazed at the initiative and drive they have to clean up around our new house. They easily match my enthusiasm...and you know it isn't always easy to motivate a 21 year old!

Many of you have asked me if I'm going to sell the house now that my circumstances have changed. I would like very much to keep the house. All of us, Kelly and Casey, Kasey and Matthew and I feel such a peace here. After studying scripture I have prayed on a daily basis (for those of you who aren't familiar with the term "pray without ceasing" - check out the New Testament) that God will allow me to keep the house.

Recently I've added another part to my prayer. More than the house I want to be in God's will. I've started praying that if the house is going to be a barrier to my being in God's will then I don't want to keep it. I could just see God shaking his head, sighing and saying "Okay, Carla. I'll let you keep the house, but if you would just let it go..." I mean what if He has some incredible plan for me and my desire for the house prevents me from receiving His full blessing.

So, that is where I am right now with the house. I just want to seek Him, listen for His voice, and live to glorify Him and receive His blessing - some days I'm successful, some days not so much, but I know He will honor my effort.