This is what it is all about...

So I know that blogs are generally for sharing ideas, thoughts, tips etc....yet mine has just turned into a photo album the last few months.

I've had several different health issues that I've dealt with since Mary Anna was born and, honestly, I've just been a bit burned out to think too deep. Between these issues, trying desperately to find me a job, consequent financial struggles from no job, Doster living through his 3rd and 4th year (us barely living through it) and just the normal stresses of life - I am left with very little to think through and share on my blog.

BUT, I am excited to say that this summer has been just what the doctor ordered for our entire family. I am doing MUCH better health wise, I am working on a potential job opportunity, Doster's good days outnumber the bad and we had a very fun family summer. Our time at the pool has made it such a fun summer for all of us. Good old family fun and being together as a family of five has been so therapeutic to help us unwind from all the stresses we've dealt with in the last year.

The struggles are not over and are not gone but we're on the downhill slide after a very steep uphill climb.

The Lord has given us His encouragement and strength through some very fun avenues in the last few months. Cool refreshing water, lots of laughter, lots of wrestling and playing, lots of snuggles, lots of grins, lots of time spent together, lots of talking, lots of snuggles and lots of loving.

This IS what its all about isn't?

This family of five - this unit - is what we fight for everyday...what we sacrifice for...what we push ahead for...what we protect...what we rest in...it is what is most important.

In a day where families are disintegrating all around us we have to remember that it is worth fighting for and worth protecting.

Now for a some more images of one of the four most important people in my life...