Blogging Blessings

About a year ago, Russell and I were watching a movie at home. I was clearly not that into the movie because I got bored, pulled the laptop onto my lap and dove head first into the blogging world! I went from one blog to another, hopping from link to link, picking and choosing to read from those that struck my fancy.

I remember the blog had a festive, Fall-time themed background. Looking more closely, there was specific Scripture 'decorating' the pages. Reading about this family, I was struck by the beautiful transparency and willingness to share with the world in order to glorify the Lord. I interrupted Russell's focus on the movie several times that evening...reading to him, showing him sweet pictures, ooh-ing and ah-ing over this precious blog (and family). I went on to bed that night, but I couldn't help but think of that blog again a few days later, wondering how I could get back to it. I did not store it in my favorites, nor was it saved in my internet cache.

I started sifting through blogs and links on blogs like I was seeking out hidden treasure! Aha! I found it!! "Thank you, Lord!!" So, I thought about it and thought about it...should I post a comment??? Would that be stalking? Surely, the writer would think I'm weird! I didn't care! I went for it! I posted my first comment! :) Boy, am I glad that I did!

Darby and I have become great friends! She's so cool, very talented, so genuine, and she's also a twin! :) Most importantly, she has a heart of pure gold...loves the Lord and people so selflessly. God has ministered to my heart and helped me through life decisions since I've been richly blessed to know Darby. We've been emailing, instant messaging each other, keeping up with each other through our blogs, posting comments, etc. We've even exchanged mailing addresses and phone numbers! We've each received physical mail from each other! :) Fun!

Above, Darby with her husband, Justin, and their sweet children, Morgan, Paige and John Martin (left to right)

Below, Darby (just after giving birth!) and her cool twin sister, Erika.

We almost got to meet this passed Summer, but the timing was not quite right. She had her third child!! Since we've met online :), I've gotten pregnant, and I realized a couple of months ago that if we're going to plan to see each other any time soon, we'd better get on it, dog on it! :) Sooooooooo, I'm headed to see Darby and her sweet family tomorrow! Yippee! We've been communicating, praying and planning for this weekend, knowing that Russell would have drill and it would be such an opportune time for me to travel before I can't in the next few weeks...we're gettin' kind of close to Rhys' due date.

Okay, enough reminiscing! I look SO forward to posting on my time with the Stickler's!

Can't wait!

Happy Friday and weekend to you all!