December 7, 2012

Prepared

Sometimes, God prepares us for what is coming.
In the past few months it felt as though
the LORD was doing that for me.

Christmas was coming,
albeit, a couple of months down the road,
but, it was coming.
I had a photo of the children that 
I thought would be perfect for the Christmas Cards.
I got them printed.

In October!

That motivated me to get a Christmas letter written.
Which motivated me to write out and address
all the Christmas cards.

In October!
~ Christmas photo: taken in May 2012 ~

Little did I know that, just prior to Christmas,
Austin would be hospitalised for six days,
and then, less than a week later,
he would have a pacemaker inserted.

Little did I know.
But, God knew.

Our times are in His hand.
He orders our steps.
And, sometimes, He prepares us.
Always, He sustains us.
Always, He provides.

There have been times when I have felt unprepared,

even then, He gives the grace and strength needed.
Regardless of our circumstances, 
He is in complete and Sovereign control.

He is SO Good!

Having my Christmas cards done ahead of time
was just one of the ways
in which the LORD prepared me for this busy time.
I had meals frozen and put away, 
and my Christmas shopping was done early.
These things have been such a blessing.
They were not *necessary* things, 
but, they were blessings nonetheless.

Although I did have some meals frozen,

they eventually ran out ~
then, some lovely ladies brought us food.
Thank you P, L, and P!!  
Isn't it wonderful to have dinner cooked for you??

Thank you, E for taking my children to your home

for dinner on the day of Austin's surgery ~
What a blessing that was!

I stand in awe of the LORD's provisions
in these tangible ways.
And, I am thankful.

May the LORD bless you all!

Much Love,
Camille

11 comments:

Maryann said...

I have seen this happen in my own life so many times. My husband says it God's gentle way of caring for us during the difficult times. What we need are eyes to see these blessings when life can be overwhelming. I love the way you choose to see God's provision and his faithfulness when days don't go as we would have planned. I too am glad i serve a God who is faithful
Blessings and love
my prayers will continue

Grandmabeckyl.blogspot said...

Your children are so adorable...even the teens! I had my cards done early this year becuz I got a good deal on them...a blogger deal. So I bought a few extras. But not addressed yet. It's great when friends come alongside you when there is health problems in family and food is provided and children cared for. We've had that done in the past and it's so uplifting and refreshing to know other Christian friends are watching out for you! Hugs!

Cheesemakin' Mamma said...

That is amazing that you got all that done. God is so good! I'm so glad you are surrounded by such loving friends who can bring you meals in your time of need. What a blessing indeed!

Hugs to you all, Jackie

Camille said...

Dear Maryann ~ Thank you for your sweet encouragement my friend...and thank you for praying! How gracious and loving our Heavenly Father is!! Many Blessings to you! :)

Dear Becky ~ Yes, it is true...the Family of God are wonderful!! What a blessing that He cares for us through HIS people!! Yippee for having cards done early!! Merry Christmas to you! :)

Dear Jackie ~ Truly it is a blessing!! We are thankful. Thank you for being a sweet friend and encouragement here in the blogging world. Love to you! :)

With Love,
Camille

Wanting What I Have said...

This is so sweet to read. Makes me smile BIG! I love how God is always in the details - meaning, He cares about the seemingly insignificant and He orders our days. What a precious reminder of His sovereign provision always and in all things. We are so thankful for Austin's good recovery. The children were so excited to hear that things had gone well and He is recovering well. You are a dear. Love you, friend!

Ann at eightacresofeden said...

That is the most beautiful photo of your children Camille. One I think you will always cherish and will be warmly received by family and friends!

Stacie, A Firefighter's Wife said...

I love it when God provides the things we don't even think of! God bless you my friend. I pray that Austin is healing quickly and that he will start a new chapter in his life. PS, Josh passed his big test! We can start moving forward together as a family. Just wanted you to know that God answered our prayers. My email is broken down, so I haven't been able to update anyone.

Love,
Stacie

Camille said...

Dear Jennifer ~ Yes, the LORD is in the details!! How precious the thought!! Thank you for praying for Austin and for loving us through this journey. Love you! :)

Dear Ann ~ Thank you my sweet and encouraging friend! Merry Christmas to you! :)

Dear Stacie ~ Praising the LORD with you on this new development with your family! What a blessing! May the LORD continue to do great things. Merry Christmas to you all! :)

With Love,
Camille

Lois said...

Hello Camille,
I have missed reading my favorite blogs (it has been since Oct!) Now I realize you have had all these developments and setbacks with your son. I'm sorry for what he has to endure. Your faith shines through loud and clear, though. I know our Lord has big plans for your son, and I'm continuing to lift your family up in prayer. It is a GOOD THING that your family is able to spread Christ's love through the whole hospital! May He keep you all in His grip.
Lois in Texas

Patty said...

So glad He has brought Austin and your family through these days and has prepared and provided for you in so many ways. May God's peace and provision continue in the days to come. Prayers for you and your family for a peaceful, joyous, and delightful Christmas!

Camille said...

Dear Lois ~ How lovely it is to hear from you! There are times when blog reading must go by the wayside...I completely understand! Thank you so much for praying for us...you bless my heart. May the LORD bless you and your family as well my friend. :)

Dear Patty ~ Your visits here are always a blessing my friend. Thank you for praying and for your kind Christmas wishes. May the LORD bless you and your family now and throughout the coming year! :)

With Love,
Camille