We moved to Georgia September of 2007. As everyone knows who has ever moved to a new place, it can take a while to make friends and build community. Having 5 little ones in tote can sometimes make it a bit harder, because all of my time is focused on them (mothers with more than 5 - you leave me in speechless awe). I really don't know what I would have done if it was not for the help of our new church. They have really cared for us in an amazing way.
There have been a few times since our move where I felt a little panic rise within - I have NO family here. What happens when we really need a favor or some extra help? Well, I can confidently - and with a little surprise - say that God has been faithfully providing some great friendships & solid community to surround us and live out what it means to be a family in God. Cheesy - oh yeah baby - screaming velveeta!! But I am a mother of 5 little ones, so some help in maintaining my sanity is a divinely sweet thing.
I know that I should NOT be surprised at how God cares for us, but it seems I am forever learning the extent and length of His love. And also realizing that if I can let go of my stubborn habit of trying to be self-sufficient, there really are some amazing folks to claim as my friends. My soul begins to warm up to & get reacquainted with one of it's original designs - community. The Godhead - Three in One - the Trinity - is community, and if we are made in His image we as well are made for community/fellowship. An incredibly scary & wonderful thing.
Living in the Dominican Republic forced me to develop community, and living in Georgia with 5 small children is forcing me to look for community. It takes a village to raise kids, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Our great friend, Alexa, with Chloe & Claire
