Titus 2:11-14

"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age, while we wait for the blessed hope - the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good."

This was from last evening's quiet time, and it really hit me how we are truly set apart in this world. We belong to the Father, and are called for His purpose. Dear friends, let us be "eager to do what is good" in His name!

Landmark Tourney

Josh, Connor, and Chris traveled early this morning with the Landmark Jaguars to St. Clair for a tournament!
The girls' volleyball team (Lady Jags) is looking really good this season ~ they have definitely upped their teamwork and skill level. The basketball team does not have any seniors this year, but the guys are working really hard and have great team spirit. Their games are very fun to watch. The last one was a little too close for my liking, though! :)

So, I definitely like to look at children's clothing better than picking clothes that I would want for myself. I have three younger sisters and three younger brothers, for goodness sake! And I've always enjoyed getting them dressed through the years. Except for Josh ~ I don't think I ever got to pick out his clothes. But I did find him a nice shirt at the thrift store the other day. Yes, he likes it, and wears it often. I am pleased...

For him, of course.

Anyway, I came across a chasing fireflies catalog at my grandma's house a while ago, and just fell in love with their designs for little girls. They're basically simple, but the young feminine styles and sweet details make their dresses really charming.

While most of their prices are through the roof, it's still fun to look for inspiration!

And, I'm pretty sure that on many of the styles, I could find a sewing pattern that would be very close, and then could add details of my own.

If the Lord chooses to so bless, I look forward to having daughters of my own to dress up someday.

This one reminds me of Shirley Temple. I absolutely love the tiny shoes!

This is so simple... very "farmish", but the tights with boots dress it up a bit.

This is a reversible jumper. I like the look of it with leggings.

I don't usually prefer black, especially on little girls, but this dress is so different! The outfit is really sweet and rather old fashioned.

This is probably my favorite one. The whole outfit is just beautiful! The small flowers in her hair add to the "woodsy" feel. Very sweet and girlish.

Possibly another post yet to come on chasing fireflies' baby clothes!

today

"the LORD turn His face toward you and give you peace" (Numbers 6:26)

"... And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)

Today was a bit difficult for me, for various reasons. But the LORD is near, and He is good. Always. No matter what trials or struggles we may walk through, the Father is present. His loving kindness endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations. May His name be praised, both now and forevermore! Our God reigns ~ let the earth rejoice and be filled with great joy! The Prince of Peace is the healer of our souls... He provides times of refreshing even in the midst of heartache and fear. His tender Spirit whispers, " Be still, Dear One, and know that I am God."

Taking the Time...

... Remember to pray for the children of Camp David!

Alyssa and Matthew

These two are lots of fun.
They are very alike in many ways.
I can't imagine Alyssa without Matthew or Matthew without Alyssa.
They just go together!

And they're a really cute couple.
Love you, 'Lyssa! Matthew... you make me laugh.

School Pictures, the ones we didn't choose.

Meg and I had a great afternoon together ~ the weather was beautiful, and it was nice to just get out and be sisters, laughing and taking pictures of each other!