What is a church anyway?

Out here in Cali... esp out here near the beach we have had a challenge.
FInding a church where we "fit"
that missing puzzle piece where we belong.
and it isnt an easy process.
much like finding that ever elusive needle in a haystack
and it should be so simple.
and if the church is the people why is it so hard for us to fit?
I have considered over and over that the problem is me.
and perhaps it is.
but
I am considering putting out an ad:

In search of the perfect church [for my family]. looking for a bible teaching, Bible believing fearless group of people that loves God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loves each other despite our differences. A group of people that can go to the Bible and agree on the doctrines, and wade through the teaching together- even if it gets uncomfortable. A group of people that is my earthly family- and we love each other even when we are unlovable, a support system that cares for each other through the dark times, an ear to listen on a lonely day, a sister or brother, or aunt or uncle to my kids- an accountibility partner to hold me up to keeping my word, a place to serve faithfully and be served (when necessary), a place to come even if it means the truth is spoken in love, a place where people dont turn their back on you and walk away

And they devoted themselves to the apostles’
teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread
and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul,
and many wonders and signs were being done.
Acts 2:42–43

Do you have a church like that on this earth? If you do, you are blessed.
Pray for us as we continue the journey... pray our roots dont wither, our flowers don't fade...and we find joy in the journey

Thankfulness

We have so much to be thankful for. I am trying to not look at the negatives. Hope you count your blessings today and every day. With the help of the Lord and Him as my strength, I hope to see my blessings throughout this thanksgiving rather than get down about the things that are not.

falling leaves

my life is a bit of a mess. and i am doing my best to sort it all out. and while my leaves may be scattered, my roots are *thankfully* firmly planted in knowing the my Lord is in charge of it all.
every. single. detail.
nothing is here that He hasnt allowed.
and despite my circumstances
I will choose to praise Him.

shattered trust

in His time there will be something beautiful out of this.
refined in the fire.
again.
still.
feel like I am broken glass
Thankful that My Saviour is sheltering me in His precious arms.

Birthdays times two

Normally when you have multiple birthdays on the same day you have twins, but not at our house. 11 years ago today my oldest son was born on my husbands birthday. And usually we alternate years of who gets to choose what to do.... and its my husbands year to pick.... but he is on the other side of the world *hopefully* enjoying some yummy coffee that we sent him in honor of his special day....
but we are gonna celebrate two of my favorite boys!

Happy Fall Y'all

button cute.

maybe its pumpkin cute!

and we didnt buy a single one...

but oh, the photo ops ;)

but I do have to say, it IS a little strange going to a nut farm , traipsing thru pumpkin fields without colored leaves and as you look up there are palm tree...

well I suppose this is fall in SoCal

and I do love those beautiful days!