Texas Visit

A few days ago I flew to TX to spend some time with Jenny and Faith.  I have been able to see Faith every month since April.  It's been a rare and unexpected treat.  The three of us hung out in the pool a lot and did some shopping.  Jenny and I worked a few of the days.  It was super relaxing.  Lately I've thought a lot about how God has gotten me through every storm.  He makes a way for me every time.  It was hard when the Ausili's left IL for TX seven years ago but this 30 plus year friendship endures.   

Proverbs 17:17; A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for adversity

 

4th of July Shrimp Boil

There has not been a shrimp boil that I didn't like but this one was extra special.  This year Lauren came along and spent the day with us and Rylan and Hannah joined us also.  These 3 girls are so much fun to be around.  The weather was HOT (like always) but we managed.  

The food is always great and Mike's butter that he makes is always a hit! 

Jay and Hannah.  Jay has been dating Hannah since March.  They are a sweet couple.  There is such a sense of peace in this new relationship.  

Two of my favorite people! 

So there has been a lot going on with Nick.  On June 26 Nick started a new job, only to get an offer from the company he's been wanting to work for for almost year.  Nick worked at the other job for 2 days and didn't accept any pay from them.  He felt bad about quitting but he accepted the offer from the other company and started what he thinks in time will be his "dream" job on June 30.  Neal Douglas who hosts the shrimp boil and is one of our dearest friends and also works for the company Nick so desperately has wanted to work for (and now does) helped put things in motion for him.  Nick just wrapped up his first week of work and seems happy and confident. 

This fourth of July just felt different, in a good way.  There has been so many things near and dear to my heart that I've prayed for this past year as a CWA leader.  I've seen many of my heartfelt prayers answered this week.  On top of that I read a book while in FL about WWII and the events leading up to us dropping the atomic bombs.  It was truly humbling.  I live in the greatest country on earth and I'm incredibly thankful to the men and women who sacrificed so much for my freedom.  Freedom that gives the opportunity to celebrate our great land each and every fourth of July.  God has extended His great hand of mercy over America.  It's in and through God that all things are made and all things are possible.  Happy 249th birthday, America.