sheltered

There is a prayer that’s been rolling around my heart of late, right out of Psalm 17 –

Keep me as the apple of your eye; Hide me in the shadow of Your wings.

A simple, simple prayer preceding the promise of Psalm 91 –

He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear . . .

A peace has settled over our lives in recent weeks, and I am there in that place, resting in His shadow. Sheltered and protected, I can feel the stress and anxiety peel away from my heart, and it. is. good. I am breathing deep in this sacred space and choosing to savor the moments, not because everything is perfect, but because it isn’t – and I am still so well loved.

This past week was wonderful and memorable and everything I needed. Mike and I were able to get away overnight – a yearly tradition we’ve begun from the promptings of very dear friends – and I realized how different our hearts have become in the course of just one year. Our time together was marked by rest and the easiness that comes from having walked a challenging road together, better off for the journey. Emotionally, spiritually, and as a couple, we are not the same. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for this incredible man and the journey that continues to shape us.

We celebrated Mike’s birthday in conjunction with Elijah starting preschool, big moments marked by reflection and transition. You know the first time moms at drop off by their red-rimmed eyes, and the quiet sobs shaking their shoulders as they drive away. This momma was no exception (and neither was the little brother). I cannot believe what a grown-up little man my baby has become.

I almost hesitate to note (for fear I will somehow ruin our good-sleep streak) that there were two nights this week that Noah slept 10 hours and 8 hours straight. In his bed. In a row. He’s expressing his feelings, not just his needs, and he’s been off reflux meds for a few weeks with no major incidents. What a happy, happy child we have.

We ended a very full and beautiful week with a family adventure day to the museum and a few moments of quiet at my favorite spot on the lakefront.

Over and over again, I am reminded what a wonderful season this is. Despite the uncertainty. Despite the hoping and longing for certain important changes. God has used the moments of these days to show me how dearly and how sheltered I am under the safety of His wing.

What a beautiful, beautiful place to be.