So, life is unique for us. We have been learning so much, out here on the farm. We bought 20 acres last June, moved onto it in the beginning of July... and bought a school bus so our kids would have something to live in (the land came equipped with a pond, forest, field and sunshine, but that's it). Since then, we've begun constructing an outhouse, de-foresting a homesite, remodeling a school bus, etc., etc., etc. I don't even remember what all we've done, but I do have it written down on a different computer.
Smiles is now delivering milk for a local creamery. Forest is now thriving in public school. Eli and Simon are great "farm hands". I'm homeschooling (sort-of), selling soap at craft fairs, and helping Smiles cultivate this plot of dirt that God blessed us with.
Our family is closer than ever and happier than ever. We were walking down a gorgeous moonlit driveway last night, contemplating the fact that people that have lived with little possessions (on purpose) tend to consider those the best times of their life.
We are so happy, full of peace and joy... not just because of life circumstances, in fact I am pleasantly surprised and even more thankful to see that peace and joy despite circumstances. I find that it is easier than in times past to be prayerful and aware of the Presence and Character of God. I have noticed that my reaction to circumstances is not as likely to be based on my knee-jerk reaction, as it was in times past, but rather on my knowledge of the Holy One (Prov. 9:10). I recall, as a younger Christian, longing for the days when I would feel like I wasn't such an ignorant baby, regarding the Character and Word of God, and though I still have an immeasurable amount of growth to experience, I also feel this precious comfort of knowing that He has brought me thus far in knowing Him, intimately knowing Him.
It's a sweet encouragement for me, as I look forward to knowing God more richly in the future and wonder what sort of other wonders await me as I enjoy being His precious daughter. I am always surprised when I see His work in me... it seems so unlikely. 2 Corinthians 4:7 says "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels (folks like you and me) so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from oursleves". I love that He does something so unlikely, as living inside common people, and shining through us. Only a God that gracious....
We are so fully of vision and enthusiasm... excited to see what our land is becoming, and feeling as though our diligent labors are very purposeful and fulfilling.
That's all I have to say at the moment, I will try not to entirely forget about this whole blogging thing, though it's a new endeavor and I have lots of other endeavors vying for my attention (like finishing our "Poop Palace" and dropping more trees. Someone remind me to post the journaling that I've done regarding our land progress and projects.
Space Welch~ Feb. 18th, 2011 A.D.
