Grati-

finds me grateful for simplicity. In a world of information overload, glitz and bling, for me the simpler the better. An I love you, a kiss or hug, a meal of beans & rice, curling up with my kids to read a book, fresh baked banana bread, a fire, a note from a friend or loved one, and a homemade gift, are just a few things I find simply fulfilling.
Given that I adore simplicity, its a wonder how our life has spun out of control. I suppose with four boys involved in afterschool activities and church activities, it just crept up on us. We just kept cramming things into our days.

Our family has come to the conclusion that we need to simplify our life. We're praying about how to go about doing it. We know we'll have to cut out activities that we like or think are good for our future on earth.

We've re-learned, through being too busy, that true simplicity comes from the activities that are good for our future in heaven. We've not neglected our spiritual lives, but we don't think we've given it the full attention it deserves because, we've filled our lives with sports, scouts, piano and...many other seemingly good things to help the children become well rounded. What has it gotten us? Frustration. We are always in a hurry to the next practice, lesson, church function, and meeting. Something is always let go (its usually the house) in order to fit in the other commitments we've made.

Chuck and I talked at length, the night before he left for his rotation, about simplifying our life, refocusing our family, and re-prioritizing activities. We've talked to the kids about it, and they agree that they'd like to simplify too.

I'm grateful for simplicity!

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