Reflections on "here and now"...a gift of Sabbath

I've been preaching on the concept of Sabbath these past few weeks, and a personal revelation I've had out of all this is how difficult I find living "the now."

I'm really good at living "the tomorrow." Anticipating what's next, preparing for another Sunday or liturgical season, brainstorming for the future of our church and our family. But today, on a day off without an agenda, I'm taking a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the first 6 months of our family's life in Pierre, SD. My "now" moment in time.

Because, quite frankly, it's been amazing!

We moved into a home that has been an extreme blessing in more ways than I can count. We're right next to a great elementary school, we have wonderful neighbors, we're close to everything, and it's a new build- so NO RENOVATIONS! :) I also recognize how extremely lucky we are to have this great space, and I find the ability to host others a true joy. Our home is always open and it feels more homey than ever with guests inside.

Our new church is a perfect size for our family. A burgeoning children's and youth ministry, seriously and happily dedicated volunteers, Spirit-filled worship, engaging and critical faith formation, and a place I sincerely enjoy showing up every morning, knowing each day will bring new gifts to my life.

AJ is now closer to the ranch, and although we continue to find challenges in balancing two full-time (and often odd-hour) jobs with the immense joy and occasional frustrations of raising two little wonders, we are so lucky to be in this stage of life. We are productive, energetic, bursting with ideas, and full of love for family and community. Of course, I need a good dose of reminding about this every now and then. I think that's why I appreciate the art of writing about life.

My "now" moment must surely include talk of those two little wonders. Briggs will be 4 years-old in a month (what?!?) and is really maturing in his ability to handle emotions and his aptitude for actually helping out around the house (he insists on taking out the trash, re-filling garbage liners, and yesterday- he ground coffee for us on his own!). His sheer curiosity about...well...everything keeps us on our toes and makes us smile more often than frown. :)

Blaire is 20 months-old, and she is officially holding her own with big brother. She has this one dimple on the right side that melts your heart when she giggles. She is communicating her needs and wishes quite clearly, although rarely with words. She likes to be physically active, always playing rough and tumble games. She even giggles when big brother playfully "prods her like a bull." Must be a rancher's kid, I guess. I certainly don't let Briggs prod me!

Speaking of the ranching life- Briggs often accompanies daddy on adventures like bull shows, cow sales, events at the ranch, etc. and LOVES it. He's always telling daddy how many cattle they should load up on their "really big trailer." Last bull show, however, Briggs informed daddy that he wasn't big enough to actually help load. He's not too small for that job, exactly, he says he's "too medium." :)

With a deep breath, I take in all this goodness of my life "here and now" and want it to settle my tendencies of thinking "future." Maybe if you share with me your stories of the "here and now" we can together rest from anxiety about our tomorrows. Sabbath gifts, meet us now.

Photo cred to my dear sister Leslie!