long time no write

Wow, I can't believe how long its been since I have a had a minute to write on this. Things have been crazy busy, but they have also been GREAT so I am not complaining. I had a wonderful time in California visiting my family. I always love seeing them, but it was especially nice seeing my new nephews. They are so adorable and I love them so much more than they will ever know. But it's been a whirlwind ever since I got back home. Unpacking, organizing, laundry, work work work. Did I mention our hotel gave me and my daughter LICE!!! Totally sucks. Its completely gone now, but that was a horrible experience to say the least. Other than that, I have been really excited about planning this new school year, and watching my husband grow into the most amazing man of God I have seen. As far as schooling goes, we are trying all new stuff this year, so I am thrilled to see what is in store for us. On top of that, little Jacob will now be joining me and Ireland in the "school room". He is such a big boy and loves to let his sissy teach him what she knows (which she is more than happy to do). He is already starting to read words on his own and we haven't ever really started a curriculum yet! He has done some letters workbooks and watched the "leap frog letter factory" video a thousand times, but he just has a knack for it I guess. He is a very eager learner and should make an excellent student for me.
About me bragging on my hubby being awesome, well I just can't help it. It is so like God to answer our prayers in the coolest ways. I have been praying for Jake for a long time to be the spiritual leader in our house, to love God, spend more time with the kids, hold his temper with me and a million other wishes I desired to see fulfilled in my husband. What does God do when I pray these things? HE TELL'S ME I need to change. What in the world is that all about?!?! I don't need to change, I rock! He is lucky to have me! Right? right? No answer. God then whispers in to my heart....
"Valerie......have a gentle and quiet spirit......be still and let him alone". WHAT???? There is nothing gentle or Quiet about me Lord. And why should I leave him alone? I hold this family together!
"No Valerie, I DO"
OK yes Lord, I know you do BUT
"No Buts Valerie, Be STILL"
Fine. I will shut up
"Good"

So I shut up. And you know what? The most amazing thing happened......My quiet, hold everything in, husband started talking to me. He wouldn't shut up, he just kept talking and talking and sharing and sharing. Who was this man? So I did what God asked, I shut up and listened. I didn't tell him all the thoughts in my head that said, "well actually Jake...." or "I don't think you have thought that through"
Or my personal favorite thing I like to spew on him "Well in my opinion..."
Nope I just kept Quiet and listened. Then he started searching God more and reading the bible more, and praying more, and it was an amazing thing to watch. Then one day this week I sat back and realized we hadn't fought in at least a week.
Was my behavior THAT much of a problem?
"That's what I have been telling you Valerie all along"
ohhhhh, thanks Lord. I'm sorry Lord. I should have listened a long time ago.

The Lord is awesome, my husband good, my kids are being shepherded. What more could a girl ask for?