My Word.

It took 18 days to come to me, but last night I realized my word for 2009. I think I've shared numerous times that in 2008, after years of battling depression and anxiety, I decided to major in JOY, and pursue it diligently.

My theme verse was; But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Psalm 5:11

What a blessing this year has been, and how much joy has filled the cracks and crevices of my days, welling up from my heart and so often bringing tears to my eyes. He has been faithful to heal and restore, and to give me that gift of joy by opening my eyes to all I have to be thankful for.

I realized last night as I was folding laundry in the stillness, kids asleep, Prairie Guy sitting quietly on the couch (without the TV on *sweet sigh*), that my word for this year is..... drum roll please.... PEACE. And my theme verse is short and sweet and to the point.

Turn from evil; do good; seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:14

From the outside looking in, my life probably looks very peaceful. We can usually move at the pace of our choosing when it comes to waking up and scheduling our days. We have more flexibility and freedom than probably anyone just because we are not tied to a clock for the most part. We live in what has the potential to be a lovely home (it needs so much work, but it really has so much character and charm) surrounded by the beauty of God's nature and the gifts of His painted skies and landscapes that are visible from every room, facing every direction. One of the items on my wish list for a home has ALWAYS been tons of huge windows facing in all directions. I hate being in a closed, dark room that doesn't let the light in and reveal the view without. I feel like some 100 years ago God had someone build this house precisely with me in mind, with huge picture windows on all sides, and up to 3 windows in each bedroom looking every which way. Twenty nine windows, fashioned with love. And He even "wrapped them up" in the wide fir casings and trim that I love *grin*.

Anyway, I'm rambling. Which is my prerogative, since this is my blog. Heh heh. My point is, that my life does have the potential and all the ingredients for being the epitome of a peaceful existence but the truth of the matter is that peace is an attitude. And I'm afraid that I haven't been the greatest at cultivating it. And I covet it, and strongly desire to emulate it for my children. The kind of peace that awakes with a smooth brow. That starts the day with a smile and gentle words. That makes its way through the day patiently and diligently focused on the task at hand and not worrying about the "next" thing while trying to accomplish the "first" thing. That creates peace through order, that chooses "quiet" over noise. That takes moments to JUST SIT (not teach, not read, not play, just SIT) with loved ones, individually. To look them in the eyes, talk about anything or nothing at all. That chooses to take moments to JUST SIT alone, or lay down in the middle of the day and not THINK about anything, just rest. To read quietly in the evenings and get to bed at an earlier hour that will ensure proper rest and a pleasant morning attitude.

The list could go on and on, but I will stop there as it is time for me to make breakfast and ensure my family comes down the stairs and steps into a peaceful and welcoming environment. If we can experience peace on a Sunday morning, it will be a first. I am excited about my word for 2009 and the promise that it holds.

photo above, our windmill reflected in a puddle. May my life reflect Him more, as I learn to be still before Him.