God's many blessings

So I just returned from visiting my sister and her family in Rhode Island this weekend. It was such a precious reminder of God's many blessings that are so unmerited and gracious toward His people. My niece, Adaline, is now eighteen months old and my nephew, Rory, is four months old. They are so beautiful and it is so neat to think that God has given me these sweet little lives to be forever connected to. Even if I never get to have children of my own, God has surpassed any hopes that I had by allowing me the privilege of being a part of these tiny hearts and minds. "No good thing does He withhold" takes on a special meaning these days. I got to spend three nights with my little ones, joyfully waking at 4am to the sound of a cry (all you mothers I am sure are thinking that certainly if I had to this every day like you all do, it might not be with so much excitement:) and rising early to breakfast and playtime. It was a beautiful fall weekend, with mild temperatures that allowed us to spend time playing in the yard. My sister and I even got to sneak out for some one-on-one time Saturday night after the babies went to bed. We did what all women love to do - SHOP! In all seriousness, I could not have asked for sweeter fellowship with my sister and I dearly love her. There is a tenderness and understanding that continues to grow between us as the years go by and I praise God for growing us in our friendship! Addy is so much fun right now. She actually says my name, "Messa" and tells me "Sit Messa" when she wants me to come on the floor and play with her or read to her. She is definitely a girl after my own heart, loving books a lot! We baked chocolate chip cookies together one afternoon and Addy got the flour on her face and just made it such fun! I also got lots of sweet hugs and kisses throughout the weekend, which made it very difficult for me to say goodbye. It truly was a gift from a great God, who is always faithful to provide opportunities for me to spend time with babies. They are such a treasure and I pray for their salvation, that God would grant these little ones eternal life!