the tiny, giant tree

Believe it or not, this is a Giant Sequoia. Passing this little shoot in the woods wouldn't cause anyone to stop and stare. The potential of the little plant isn't even a passing thought. But give it a few thousand years and what you see before you could become one of the largest trees in the world. 

When we were in California last month we did the tourist thing and bought a genuine Giant Sequoia. It summons a smile to my face as I pass by it's little homestead on our back porch step. How the Creator must smile, too, as He watches it grow. He is the only one who fully understands the potential of the plant. 

The tiny Giant Sequoia reminds me of the story of Gideon. Though he had a heart full of doubt and was a small man in his community, God chose him for a big task and called him by his God-given potential. 

"And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour." (Judges 6:12)

Even though our tree is tiny, we still call it a Giant Sequoia. Not because of it's current size and location, but because of what God created it to be; because of it's potential.

I'm encouraged by this tiny tree. I wonder exactly what giant potential God has wrapped up in each of our lives. But the thing about potential is that it remains potential unless we dare to step out and believe God for great and mighty things. 

blue orchids & baby food

Aren't they perdy? The stunning color of blue sitting on the kitchen table distracts me for a few seconds from the world around. They're such a lovely shade of blue. I'm thankful for these flowers that bring a pause in my spirit from the busyness around....and for the thoughtful husband that gave them to me.

As I fixed John's dinner this afternoon I was reminded of the joy of being a mother. After struggling with infertility, I am abundantly thankful for the gift of my son. Mushing bananas has a whole new meaning....I'm thankful for a baby to mush them up for:) 

lots of random things:)

My boys:) They are the light of my life:) I especially love how much fun they have together.
And this picture makes me smile. They were very intently listen to our friend, Dr. Tim, talk! 

My niece's first birthday! She's such a blessing to us! I simply adore her. 
She was born on my birthday, too...so that's even extra fun:)

Dried roses. So these should have rotated, but it didn't work. Anyway, they were hanging in the guest room of a friend's home that we stayed in this afternoon. They made me wonder, what was the occasion? Was it the gift of a lover? The gift of a friend? Roses gathered from the funeral of a beloved family member? They could tell a story, I'm sure...and they were special enough for someone to keep...and decorate with...to remember. 

Classic books. They make the world a better place, don't they? And the fact that these all sport a bright red with gold lettering makes them all the more charming.

Cally, the butterfly chaser. Today I watched a friend's funny puppy chase butterflies through the yard. At first, I insisted that Cally and I were not friends. But after a few games of fetch we were buddies. She won me over.:)

John's hilarious facial expressions! He keeps us smilin'! What a guy:)

Perhaps a random list...but I am learning that intentional thanksgiving adds such joy to my day! 

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for the precious gifts you give...large and small. You are so kind. Amen.