A New Beginning

"For I know the plans I have for you,"

declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11

Today marks a new day for the Jones family, and in particular, for Bobby...the first day of a new job in a new career field. Bobby left his post at Lonesome Valley in May to take (what we've enjoyed calling) a sabbatical. Over the past several months, he has done a lot of reflecting, praying and listening to discern the next step for him in light of his personal and professional goals. During this time, we have prayed fervently that God would make clear His plan for Bobby, that he would grant us patience during the process and that He would help us find contentment in where we are each and every day.

And so you wonder where is Bobby and what is he doing? Well, one piece of good news is that we haven't had to relocate! He has entered the financial planning sector by joining The Palmer Group here in Asheville. We met Jeff Palmer over a year ago when he helped us in our own financial planning. Jeff has extensive experience in this field and is looking forward to mentoring Bobby to become a highly-sought-after, comprehensive financial planner in this region.

We appreciate the prayers of those of you who have prayed for Bobby and for discernment and wisdom in career-related decisions. God is faithful.

Jesus Loves Me

Nothing gets better than hearing your child sing a song such as this one for the first time. We were walking Dobson last week when Thompson started talking up a storm...or at least I thought he was...until Bobby deciphered the lyrics and realized he was singing. He sometimes needs a word to remind him of the next verse, but all in all, I'd say he's got it. Enjoy!

Prayers for the Grahams

For those of you who visit this post, we would as that you pray for our friends Frances and Todd Graham. They tragically lost their newborn daughter, Emerson Juliette, this past weekend due to unforeseen complications immediately following her birth. Words cannot take away the pain of such loss. Simply time and God's abiding love. We know there will be a void for Frances and Todd; however, we also know the Lord is the One who fills that gap. We pray the Graham family (and other families faced with similar tragedies) will find the healing, comfort and peace that only God can provide.

As you can imagine, this has made us pause and reflect on our own lives. We've been reminded that God's plans are much greater than our own. We've been reminded that God is the ultimate Father. We've been reminded that we must be willing to let our Father protect us, comfort us and carry us through life's storms. We've been reminded that life happens fast. We've been reminded to cherish each and every moment. And, we've been reminded to "give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thess 5:18).

Here's to you sweet Emerson, we know you brought such joy to your parents during your brief stay with us.

Celebrating 7

Today marks our 7th anniversary! My how time flies...when you're having fun of course! Bobby's parents spent last night with us so that we could celebrate this occasion over dinner sans Thompson. Our heartfelt thanks to those of you who have supported us the past seven years with your prayers and encouragement. There is one thing we've learned (and are continually reminded of) and that is that marriage isn't easy...it is hard works and requires a daily commitment to each other and to the Lord. We recognize God has used the past seven years to teach us valuable lessons and truths about love, grace, faithfulness and patience...and we know the years ahead will be no different. Join us as we begin the journey into year eight. In closing, may the following writing inspire you in your marriage as it has for us.

A Wedding...A Marriage

a wedding is a day;
a marriage is a lifetime.

a wedding is a ceremony;
a marriage is a Holy Covenant.

a wedding is a sign to friends and relatives;
a marriage is a sign to the world.

a wedding is performed in God's presence;
a marriage is lived in the presence of God.

a wedding is a promise, a commitment;
a marriage is keeping a promise, living a commitment.

a wedding is a celebration;
a marriage is a sacrifice.
a wedding is the result of a series of decisions made in love;
a marriage is a daily decision to love.