As a 51 year old woman, I have decided to engage deeper into the world of technology. Why fight it? So along with downloading my favorite music onto an MP3 player, I am joining the ranks of the blogging community. I actually have been reading quite a few people’s blogs lately and have found random themes among them: some want a place to vent their complaints(a mad diary, if you will), some are to spotlight their brilliance/creativity/cleverness, some are to extol their wit in describing oddities around them, some are just honest revelations of life experiences. If this one does have a theme, I want it to be about blessings that are occurring all around us.
I was thinking about Oprah, and about how far that girl swings on a pendulum. I have learned about 10 things from her, and have discarded about 10 million. But one of the most encouraging things she suggested was that we should all keep a “grateful journal”. Each day(s), write down one or more things you are grateful for. Sometimes it’s a stretch. I have tried to do this off and on for years, and have found myself to be wanting. So because I am now doing a coaching program for realtors, the two things that keep coming up are that you should write things down, and you should have an accountability partner. The fact is I have quite a few “partners” in life, and wanted to invite all to join the journey with me. I’m hoping it can become a place for mature Christians to recognize and tell about things that God is doing – the big things, yes, but more specifically, the little things that make up life. My new little preacher, Matt, uses this term a lot - ”doing life together”. So that’s this blog – “Doing life together.”
I can tell you what I’m grateful for today – as each of you knows, precious little Nathan died a year ago on Tuesday, November 27. I am very grateful that he came into our lives, even for a short period. I am grateful that he gave Ryan and Patrick a wonderful example/mentor of a young man in Christ – one who wore his Christianity truthfully, one who was not afraid to take some risks while living life to the fullest, one who loved and cared for the “underdog”. I am grateful that Nathan loved Lauren passionately and selflessly, and left her with a high standard for any other man that comes into her life. And, I am grateful for Nathan’s little Jack. A tender-hearted, loving, driven, people-person, just like his dad. I notice Jack doesn’t really take things at face-value; he seems to always turn them over and see what’s underneath. Another quality like his dad’s. This is what I’m grateful for today. What about you?
Love, Kim
November 26, 2007 at 10:31 pm
First comment – testing.
Kim
November 26, 2007 at 11:26 pm
I am grateful that you are starting this blog, dear friend. How very “modern” of you! I too have been thinking how thankful I am for Nathan, and for the impact that his life made. For a young man to live such a short time, he certainly made a BIG difference in the life of so many. He lived a large life. I am also thankful for the precious spirit of Lauren Taylor. She has lived such a life of example during this past year of grieving. I am thankful that God has has held Lauren and Jack in His comforting hands, and has provided for Lauren that she could stay home with her son this past year. I am grateful for you, Kim Lambert, and the life you lead, the example you set, the encouragement you offer, the wisdom you share, and for the friend that you have been to me and many others. I thank God for you often! I am already grateful for the words of encouragement that we will all be blessed with through this connection. Blessings and Greetings to ALL!!!!
November 27, 2007 at 3:43 am
Of course you would be the first of us to become a blogger! Our pioneer. You have always encouraged and expected growth from those you love. Thank you for spurring us on. I too have thought of sweet beautiful Nathan all day. I can only smile when I think of him.I remember our shopping trip for the prayer shawl that he wanted. That symbolic mantle that he would be Lauren’s covering. I learned much from him and the example that he was just by “doing life” He chose Lauren for so many reasons but I know he saw the inspirational woman that she was that she is.
November 27, 2007 at 4:37 pm
I’m giving thanks today that God is in control and that we do not have to question or understand what happens on this earth, we only have to love God and trust that he is bringing everything together for the good of those who love him. We stand on that promise even more today, because we know how much Nathan and Lauren love God and that somehow, this is being worked into God’s perfect plan. We can see a glimpse, in little, wonderful Jack and the joy he brings. We want to stand with your family as you mark this time of grief but also reverence. You have all been an inspiration to me, and I know that when dark times come, I will remember your faith and take heart. —Nikki
November 27, 2007 at 5:31 pm
Thank you, Mindy. You KNOW you offer encouragement to me as well.
Thank you, Tammy. I remember the day you, Janice and I shopped for the prayer shawl. I remember the prayers that we prayed for them under the prayer shawl. I’m so grateful to have that memory with you for something that meant so much to my family.
Thank you, Nikki. Your words brings joyful tears to my eyes. I appreciate your heart.
Love y’all. Kim
November 27, 2007 at 6:31 pm
Hey! I added myself and Sheri to the blog!
November 27, 2007 at 7:05 pm
Hi again. I set up my profile, so now, let’s see if it works. Wtxrockgirl is my name because, I’m from West Texas and I paint rocks. Yes you heard correctly, paint rocks. (It is going to come in handy when I’m old and need to stay busy). The little picture is my Christmas penguin that I painted. So today, I’m thankful for rocks! Love to everyone, Nikki