Oh, What Do You Do in the Summertime?

Thanks to her wonderful nursery music leader in church, Lizzie delighted us all summer with "Oh, What Do You Do in the Summertime:"  

"Oh what do you do in the summertime,

when all the world is green?

Do you fish in a stream,

or lazily dream

on the banks as the clouds go by?

Is that what you do?  So do I!"

Of course, Lizzie always sings, "Do you fish in a pool," since that's just about her favorite place to be!  Here is a photo-summary of our summer doings:

Baking,

Meeting cousins & playing on the beach in Florida,

 Lovin' on our furry family member,

Zoo-ing with family,

And swimming, of course!  (a summer thunderstorm prevented us from our usual Seven Peaks outing on the day of these pictures, and our fish of a daughter needed a substitute to try out her new goggles--thus the tub).  :)

Now for an update on our family:  After studying all summer with jaw-dropping stamina, Case took the Bar a couple weeks ago and is now working with a family law/criminal defense attorney in Heber.  It's a wonderful opportunity for him, both to work in his preferred area of criminal law, and to work where we'd eventually like to live.  His position will slowly build after he gets the Bar results in October, and as he helps build up the business with new clients, etc.  

What's interesting is that although we both wanted an immediate, clear-cut, full-time job for Case (see this post), it turns out that having a slowly-building transition period is perfect for our family in several ways.  For one thing, I go back to teaching tomorrow, something I'd normally anticipate with angst--not because I don't LOVE teaching, but because of the difficult transition from full-time Mom to full-time employee.  However, because Case will be home with Lizzie one or two days a week, I feel incredible peace; every concern I usually have at this time is alleviated by this situation.  What an unexpected and merciful blessing from the Lord!  

Additionally, together, we are striving to achieve the goal described in the hymn, "Lead Kindly Light:" 

"Keep thou my feet;  

I do not ask to see the distant scene--

one step enough for me."

Had the Lord given to this pair of over-planners what we thought we needed, we would not have had the opportunity to trust in Him through unknowns--and with it, opportunity for growth, change, and strength.  Another major and unlooked-for blessing!

The Lord is watching out for us.  He sees the plan, so we are working daily to place our faith in His capable, loving hands.  In this wonderful talk about faith, Richard G. Scott says, "...were you to know His entire plan, you would never ask for that which is contrary to it even though your feelings tempt you to do so. Sincere faith gives understanding and strength to accept the will of our Heavenly Father when it differs from our own. We can accept His will with peace and assurance, confident that His infinite wisdom surpasses our own ability to comprehend fully His plan as it unfolds a piece at a time." 

We are amazed at the sense of calm and joy that has come into our home as we strive to put these principles into practice!  And you know what?  Our happiness is surpassing what we'd planned for.   :)