IMG_7030Today’s blog is a little different. It’s been three weeks since I have posted and a lot has happened since then!  The first week we were on vacation in Saint Joe Beach, Florida.  I have to say it was the most relaxing vacation we have ever had and was truly refreshing for our family.  We also got some wonderful news at the beach…we are pregnant with our 6th! Our 17th anniversary was during our vacation and I planned a huge surprise for Christi.  While we were at the beach, I had a friend do some work in our back yard; put up some fencing for the animals, flower beds, sod and a fire pit.  Upon our return last Saturday, Christi was over joyed to see the backyard makeover.  After dinner, I built a fire in the fire pit and we were headed outside to enjoy the fire when Christi slipped and fell on the last step of our porch…we went to the emergency room instead.  So last week instead of blogging I spent the night in the emergency room.  Fortunately it’s not broken, but the severe sprain has her on the couch most of the time and on crutches if she gets up.  After such a relaxing week of vacation, we found ourselves in one of the most challenging weeks we have had as a family.  I have washed more clothes and dishes, and changed more diapers than I did in the 17 previous years combined.  I have made meals, done all the farm chores, and waited on Christi as the old saying goes “hand and foot.”  At first I was frustrated, but I began to realize that this was an opportunity to serve her, what better way to celebrate 17 years of marriage to the love of my life and mother of our 5 (soon to be 6) children.  I’ve got a huge lesson in humility and thankfulness this week as I’ve gained an appreciation for what she does on a daily basis while I’m at work.  I’m also very thankful that I have an amazing team at CFA Macland Crossing, and I didn’t have to worry about the restaurant while on vacation or this past week.  As leaders we don’t think about what those around us are doing to enable us to lead successfully very often.  I challenge you to take a moment to think about the people around you and what they do on a daily basis to support you.  If your lucky, you will get an opportunity to serve them like I have!

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