gifts 158 through 163

158. majestic Cascade mountains. our tiny vehicle weaves in and out of them as the white fog seeps through all the crevices. they stand strong, rustic, jagged, and fierce. Yet, they seem sturdy and protective. we wind through the valley and the mountains keep us company along the way. 

159. plush pillows and warm blankets. this pacific north western air gives me good, solid, sleep, something I haven't really experienced since being pregnant this third time around. the air is crisp and alive, so clean and refreshing. it dances on either side of the open window, and true rest has been found here.

160. a praying and interceding husband. yesterday was a long grueling day of travel, we were up before the sun rose, 3:00 in the morning, and did not stop until a few time zones later, and my head was pounding, my nausea had risen up, and my body felt like it was falling apart. Nathan, in his gentleness and his patience, rubbed by head and kneaded at the sharp pressure points on my aching forehead and just whispered prayers to our Father, praying for relief and healing on my behalf, and I am just so thankful that the prayers of a righteous man are heard. my head is clear this morning.

162. breakfast in bed. this beautiful Bed&Breakfast is so plush and hospitable, it feels like such an oasis, such a retreat, and it is all a gift. this morning there was just one cheerful knock, and outside our door and hour before breakfast, steaming hot coffee and hot cocoa for me were waiting. we sipped our hot beverages and enjoyed our slow morning together. there was another knock, and this time, a feast. fresh fruit cut just so, a hot croissant stuffed with a creamy filling and warm fresh peaches stacked on top. for this foodie's eyes, twas a rich and delightful gift. i want to soak every little gift up and be appreciative.

163. the greenery. as far as your eye can see, so much fresh green bursting with life. His creation is alive over here in Washington and they sing His praises.

157

cotton candy sunrise

156

a late night with my oldest baby girl. cuddling in mommy's bed and watching Rigoletto, one of my childhood favorite movies. such precious moments tonight.

151-155

151 precious tokens of love all the way from Korea
152 time with a dear friend who is sold out to Joy
153 splendid lavender puffs lined up in the sky
154 thirty-eight minutes of much-needed talk time. and hope-restoring grace on the other end of the line
155 moon dough. coolest kid toy ever.

144-150

144  rich, fulfilled days that leave only minutes of laying in bed before sleep comes
145  reminders from a friend who has experienced an onion's layers of pain: our hope is for the glory that is to be revealed
146  that space with the grass seats that climb high, the music and dancing, a summer night
147  amphitheater: structural beauty
148  tiny glasses
149  getting all dressed up
150  setting-sun laughter

138-143

138. sweetened black tea with cream, over ice. 139. intimate friends. who lift me up, ask hard questions, and surround me with his huge love. 140. redemption, reconciliation, transformation. peace. joy. darkness to light. newfound gladness. 141. True intimacy in marriage. as a whole, with depth and layers, not just a simple closeness, but a true oneness between a husband and wife that is found hidden in God. 142. Leftover fajitas 143. relief, unification with God and spouse, breakthrough. thanks be to God.