Change

Change.

Usually a word that strikes fear in my heart. I typically don't like change.

Even good change (actually, especially good change) for whatever reason...I just don't handle it like I should. The absolute, without a doubt, best changes in my life...well, it's been quite a road.

Why? Sure some change is stressful, hard, etc. But why is it such a big deal in my life? Especially when I know the change is good, beneficial, God-ordained.

Sadly, I realize I already know the answer. Satan gets me here. Really the only thing certain about change is the certainty that, with change comes some pretty big unknowns. And for me, it doesn't take much contemplating of these "unknowns" to breed quite a bit of fear.

What if? What if? WHAT IF??!

(Do you sense the panic setting in?)

Um, no. As follower of Christ this should never be my response. I'm embarrassed to admit how often it is. And how often that "what if" game of hypotheticals yields anxiety which yields crippling fear. God has me. He has us. He loves us. I know this. Why do I so often live like it's not true?

I've done quite a bit of wrestling in this area in the course of my life. It's been a struggle as long as I can remember, even in my earliest years. It hasn't been until more recent years that I've recognized this battle for what it is and put my foot down.

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;

I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly."

-John 10:10

The thief may NOT steal my joy!!!!


All this to say, we're facing some pretty big changes coming up. In fact, we're already in the midst of a pretty transitional time. And I'm so pleased to report that I'm thrilled about where the Lord is leading our family. We have been prayerful about our decisions, invited the Lord to guide, and are walking in confidence in the direction we feel God leading us.

So, I've resigned my position at the early childhood school that I've been at since I graduated. I've accepted a new position with a pediatric home health agency. I will be working part-time (about 15 hours a week). I will have the flexibility of scheduling my own patients, and therefore, setting my own schedule.

Working less hours will allow me much much more of my true heart's desire....to spend my days at home with Wesley. It's been a hard year. Good, yes. But hard. I have a whole new respect for working mothers after this year. It's quite the challenge!

Our childcare situation will change as well for the much smaller time that I will be away. We have absolutely loved the school Wesley has been at this past school year and will miss his teachers dearly. However, we are very excited about what we have lined up for the fall.

Kyle is moving to a new job as well. He has taken a position with a new district (my old district, go figure!) and will continue to teach history at a fabulous school that is significantly closer to home.

Whew.

It's a lot. Lots of new things, adjustments, and saying goodbye to people, jobs, and schedules that were familiar. But I am confident that God is faithfully moving us in perfect provision. And we will hold onto Him and be excited for what He has in store.

At our celebratory dinner after the last day of school.