Gathering the Gleanings: Reflections on Life in the Ministry

This week there has been laughter filling our home since the arrival of our youngest daughter. She joined the Navy, has done all her necessary training. From Norfolk, VA to San Diego, CA, she is on a bit of a break before her first assignment in Jacksonville, FL and then onward. She was my son’s best, best friend. She was here at our home so much (perfectly fine with us)! And when she started calling us mom and dad everyone’s relationship deepened to a new level. Wow, now I had 3 young people who called me mom and 4 grandchildren who call me Oma. Of course our son has been ours from the moment he was born and the adoption papers were signed. He was a blessing from God. The young ladies that are be side of him are blessings from God also and we consider them our children.

So back to the airport. When our son saw his bestie he jumped out of the car and screams of joy were heard! If only that big white van wasn’t beside us – it would have been a beautiful picture. Then as a surprise to me, I was told “we were going to pick up family”. As soon as their screams of joy settled down I got out of the car and said dear I so heard your voice and she bear hugged me and told me how much she loved me. Eight months was a LONG TIME!

On the way home they poked at each other as any aister and brother would – “Mom and Dad she’s on my side”. You get the picture! We have loved the joy that is in the air here for a few days.

Then Friday rolls around and our oldest daughter, her husband and our 4 grandson emerge on our home like every Friday night. Ma, Mom and Dad and I were a little bewildered at times. Our eldest had never met our youngest and there was never even a pause till there were hugs and dancing and of course laughter. It filled my heart – I suspect I will never forget those moments. I share a few pictures of the three of them (of course the eldest being the silliest) and one with me (of course with my Trellis badge still on). And then one of my Sailor!

A love for children doesn’t have to come with your personal DNA! Love like this comes from God. It started with that boy and grew from there! We are all so blessed!