88 Answers to Prayer

I've always known God cares for the little and big things in my life. He has proven that so many times. Recently, He provided a want in my life in the form of 88 keys.

You see, I play the piano as a hobby.  I'm no Beethoven, Bach, or Mozart, but I do enjoy playing their pieces to relieve stress after a day working with teenagers.

Since I no longer live as close to my parents, I've not been able to allow my fingers to dance across the ivories - and I've missed it.  So I started to pray about a piano.

At first, I searched for different keyboards and price ranges. But I felt I shouldn't buy one. It's hard to explain, but I knew God was telling me to wait on Him. I had the opportunity to go to some stores to look around, but again, I felt God was telling me not to look.

I'm glad I listened.

The other day, I was at my church and the thought came from no where to ask the music minister about purchasing a piano. The very next day, a lady at my church asked the same music minister how she could get rid of her piano.

When she called me to tell me she had a piano and asked me if I would be interested, I almost started to cry!  It was amazing how God worked it out. Even better, since she's known me all my life and knows my affinity for music, she's going to GIVE me the piano.

I was speechless - except to say a thank you to the Lord - for He does care about even the least of these.

Once it's moved to my house and tuned, I'll be sure to post a video or picture of this upright, 88-key answer to prayer :o)

Happy Birthday Grandma B!

This weekend celebrations were in store as my paternal grandmother turned 94 years-old!  My cousins from California came in we took Grandma out for pizza and then back to my parents' for cake.

David, Danny, Grandma B., MaryBeth, and me

Grandma B. played Happy Birthday as we sang to her.  Sorry the film is sideways.

Grandma B. and me at the local pizzeria.

Our First Christmas

Christmas was special this year, as it was my first Christmas celebrating as a wife. I've learned I've got a lot of learning to do before I become as good as gearing up for Christmas as my mom is. Her tree is always so pretty and interesting.  Mine was interesting and humble, but I grew to like it. I put pictures of the two trees so you could better see the difference.

Mom's Tree

My tree

B and I developed a few traditions this year. One of those was hosting an advent get-together each week. It didn't work out as well as I planned with busy schedules and a flu bug, but it was sweet. We had an advent wreath and took part in reading the scripture and lighting the candles each week.  We made many memories with this and I'm excited about doing it again next December.  

Glorious

This is a view of the sunset from my house tonight.  I thought it was rather special just because. I love watching the glory of God's goodness to us through nature.