Many years ago on a mission trip I learned the phrase "blessed are the flexible"...nothing could be more true for our journey!  I should have known to hang on for the ride when our very first stop was cancelled due to the government shut down in October...  
     We read a devotional this evening with the boys for advent and I loved how the author chose to look at the scripture:  

"While they were there, the time came for her to give birth.  Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough - because there was no room for them at the inn."  Luke 2:6-7

     The author of the devotional had this to say:  

"We might read that part of the Christmas story and wonder how that  no-vacancy detail could have escaped God's attention.  How could He have failed to make room at the inn for  His Son and His family?  But look again, and we'll see something else.
That manger wasn't an afterthought or backup plan if something else didn't work out.  it was a gift, a tangible demonstration of God's focus and order because there was room for only one Savior.  And the gift from old is re-created  each day in our hearts where, again, there is room for only one Savior."

     Nothing has gone the way we had planned...in fact we haven't even left Texas.  We "should" have driven all the way from Maine to at least Virginia by now...but that was not God's plan.  He saw the bigger picture and we are learning what it means to trust and seek him daily.  Although we haven't been on the road we have constantly been surrounded by family this whole time!  Aaron's sister Rachel and her family have warmly welcomed us to stay with them during this season of uncertainty.  Aaron has spent the past month working on his parents home, an opportunity he would have not had if we had already been gone.  
     We have taken a few side trips one to the New Braunfels and San Antonio area where we were able to connect with cousins, aunts, uncles, friends and my grandpa.  Then up to Little Rock to spend time with my mom and sister and her family.  I have LOVED being surrounded by family!  Such a blessing!!  We will be heading to CA on Monday to spend the holidays with even MORE family!!  Have I mentioned I LOVE being surrounded by family?
     I know God has a plan and I know it doesn't always match what I think should happen.  This season has been so freeing just sitting back and saying, "OK Lord, what next?"  I know he has been with us each step of the way and I know if we are faithful he will continue to guide and direct.
     This update was not meant to be a sermon, it is simply my heart and I wanted to share it with all of you!

Holiday blessings and Merry Christmas!!!!  With love, Jenn and the boys!

Photos to be added soon!!