I found out yesterday that my Mom, brother, aunt, and cousin were all going to be in town this evening. So with today being my sister’s birthday, we were all pleasantly surprised to find that we could all be together to celebrate!

There was fourteen of us all together. And with four little princesses running around enjoying each other, the rest of us ate delicious Tex-Mex at Santa Rita and relished in conversation and each other’s company. It gives me such comfort to be surrounded by my family. And of course, I felt Daddy smiling down on us.

What a wonderful way to spend a random Tuesday evening. I’m so grateful for this surprise dinner with my family.

I contracted what seems to be a small stomach bug that hit me in the middle of the night and I’ve spent all day trying to rest and recover.

I hate missing work, but I’m thankful for forcing myself to stay home. I’m feeling so much better for it this evening.

I’ve felt so out of sorts and anxious the past several weeks. I bury myself in work, personal obligations, movies, and books in a feeble attempt to distract myself. I tend to internalize my feelings until I find some peace. I tend to find it in church or in prayer.

Today, it was this scripture that gave me solace and I’m incredibly grateful for it:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

– Philippians 4:6 (NIV)