Well, we're here

The past few days have been a whirlwind. Tonight we're having my family over for birthday cake for Audrey before my parents and youngest siblings leave for CA for 10 days. We worked our tails off since Friday, and there is still much to be done. We also have yet to clean the townhouse and check out with our old landlord. Seeing as how the girls are still sick with colds, not quite sure how I'm going to get that done.

I was thinking today, as I worked on putting away the endless boxes of stuff into the very limited space in the kitchen, that I believe contentedness must be practiced. Here's what I mean: we have looked forward to moving to this house for months, really. Back in February we began looking for a place to live. This is where we ended up. There are so many things I love about it. As I walked through this poorly cared-for cottage, I saw a place where we could thrive, even before it looked like such a place. When it comes down to reality though, sometimes the piles of boxes and lack of space threaten to crowd out the hopes and dreams. Do you have any idea what I'm talking about?

Honestly, I could probably move to a brand-new, huge house and still find something to be upset about. I think most people could. So, I want to learn to be content here. Here, with the toilet that Nick has made three (so far) trips to Lowe's for the stuff to fix it. Here, with the lack of closet and cabinet space. Here, with the carpet that is less than perfect. Here, with...fill in the blanks.

I was thinking of the Rich Mullins song, "One Thing."

Everybody I know says they need just one thing
But what they really mean is they need just one thing more
Everybody seems to think they got it coming
Well, I know that I don't deserve it, still I want to love and serve you more and more
You're my one thing

You're my one thing
And the pure in heart shall see God

And then, there's Phil. 4:11-13:

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

And THEN, there's 2 Peter 1:3:

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

So, if I know that God has given me everything I need, and that it is possible to live in contentedness, I'm determined to find it! I have always loved the idea of having a simple life - not needing much to be full of joy, hospitable, at peace, and able to live within our means. So, this house is a gift from God to me. Without being forced to, I'm not sure I would ever learn how to live that way. Watch me learn!