Fun in the USA

Yesterday we took a road trip. Well, Michael didn't - he stayed home and worked to pay for it! LOL But the rest of us packed up with friends and headed south for the day, our first trip in years.

We had a good though very long day. We hit Arby's for lunch (no one was impressed) then started into shopping. While I was in the first store, my friend came running in to tell me both boys doubled over in cramps then ran for the bathroom. Luckily, both boys were fine by the time I came out of the store, and other than reduced appetites, were fine the rest of the day. On second thoughts, maybe I should take them to Arby's more often - the reduced appetites were cheaper on my pocketbook. Just kidding! LOL

We were very smart in that we started with the furthest away store and worked our way home. It helped to have the trip back broken up into shorter segments as it made the car ride seem like nothing. We also found some good deals, and some things we needed but hadn't been able to find at home for whatever reasons.

By the time we got back to the border, our bill was high and it was after 11 at night. Felt very blessed to get a border guard who didn't make me pull over and pay GST or duty! We pulled in at home and the kids were so tired, they fell into bed without even saying good night to me! LOL

The funny of the day:
We passed an articulated bus, which fascinated all the kids, even the 24 year old, who shot a video of it. And Tanner's comment? "It even has seats!" ROFLOL He meant NEAT seats, or at least that's what he says now...

Seizing the Moment to Speak into Others' Lives

So often I pray for God to use me, then blindly stumble through the moments that come without even realizing He had a purpose until later. You know those thoughts, "I should have said..."
Well, this week God did use me and it wasn't until afterwards that I even realized it.

My husband and I plan for a weekly date night. It takes some effort and dedication to keep it up regularly, but it is well worth the positive benefits on our marriage. I strongly recommend a regular date night to all couples, even if it is only an hour away for a coffee or a walk through your neighbourhood. But I digress...

Late in our meal hubby slipped away to the bathroom. Our server approached me, asking when we were getting married, as she had heard the word "fiancee" and thought we were talking about us. When she realized we had been married sixteen years (suddenly I feel old!) she started asking me questions about what age we got married, what age I think is best, and how did we manage to stay married this long! It was such a blessing to be able to speak to her and explain what has made our marriage work (commitment and communication!) and that there are times when you don't feel the love, but that it will return if you keep working out the issues.

She walked away marvelling that it is ok to get angry at someone! It is sad that our TV and movie fantasy world has so set up people with the idea of "happily ever after" that we have young people who don't realize that real life doesn't work that way! What a pleasure to be the messenger encouraging her that successful relationships are based on work rather than romantic feelings.

Thank you God for the chance to speak into another's life. Praying for more opportunities to be used by Him!