Rebecca's Joy

Dear Readers,

August felt like a whirlwind from starting back to school and the massive ways we are embracing this busy season. Part of me feels incredibly guilty trying to balance my marriage, job, and the to-do list that always seems to add two tasks for each task completed. We have cut back on hospitality, adventures, and extra expenses, yet there’s this massive “am I doing enough?” question that keeps looming. I think I am asking the wrong question. Of course, I am doing everything I can, but sometimes, life just has a way of showing you that you need to be gracious with yourself, and to do your best.

On August 1st, we had brunch at the Black Forrest Bistro with our Pham! We followed up with a walk through a beautiful trail in Black Forrest.

Frank and I decided to divide and conquer our sleeping situation. Frank works mid-morning to 11 PM during the week. I wake up around 5:00 and go to bed around 9:00. Despite trying other methods, we decided it was best to set up a sleeping area for me. I have my own little “kingdom” upstairs, including a fridge and a Bible study area to keep my routines. It is unconventional, yet for us, it works. We both get undisturbed sleep and the pups don’t cause as much chaos.

I finished painting a kitchen cabinet in our home, and then we decided to start tackling some stuff in the basement. Again, it’s temporary, but we are focusing on what we need to do rather than on items that can wait. Takoda got “painted” but thankfully it came off with warm water. He thinks he’s a project manager, but it’s nice to have companionship.

We celebrated our friend, Carrie’s birthday! It was wonderful to see her be celebrated. She is a lovely lady with a big heart. She’s also trying to do a domestic infant adoption with her husband. She would make an amazing mom.

After school started, I got to have dinner with my dear friend, Michelle. She is such a gem, a great mom, and dear sister in Christ. I love how she lives intentionally with her husband, Peter, and their adorable little son.

Speaking of starting school, I couldn’t be more thrilled with our kindergarten team. We work well together and support each other. It has been so nice to be with a group of like-minded teachers.

We replaced the doors on our main living floor. I am so excited to have brand new doors. The other doors were scratched and old.

We were still on pause with our adoption this month, but stayed tuned for the September update. Things are starting to move forward. I am putting my faith above my feelings. Please pray for wisdom and endurance. It is hard to describe the intense emotional, physical, spiritual, marital, financial, and mental load this process involves. Frank and I are 100% good with it just being us forever, but we are planning on giving it one more year before we decide to end this process. We have tried to have a family for over 18 years.

Love,

Rebecca and Frank