Is there such a thing as 'settled'?

We are moved into our new 'gift from God' (rented) house...enjoying all the space, carpets to play on, and lots of closets! We also pretty much have an unobstructed view of the mountains from behind our house. I can't wait for summer, when I'll take my cup of tea to the back porch and congratulate God on the beautiful place He's made. :)

I should say 'maybe-' about that cup of tea on the back porch. We keep reminding ourselves that someone could buy this place at any time; in fact, we have had six showings since we moved in. Another reminder that our affairs on this earth are pretty much just temporary -- 'cause we're not HOME yet! So focus, Julie, on the things that aren't temporary...

I need that reminder! This morning we said good-bye to our dear friends, Aaron and Lindsay, whom we know from the NTM training. They are missionaries in Senegal and just returned on furlough. We had a fabulous visit with them, and I am so glad they could come! Lindsay and I spent some time talking about keeping things simple and how not owning a lot of possessions is easier in many ways. (Keep in mind that she will possibly be returning to a mud-brick home, to live more like the Africans do.)

As we talked, I kept thinking about how refreshing it was to hear Lindsay's perspective...and about how easy it is for me to fixate on all the things I want. A different couch, wall decor, dishes that match...blah, blah, blah. Or that cute denim skirt and little cardi I saw in a catalog a few days ago. Did I mention that I really like that dress from Boden, too?

Todd and I have talked many times about our purpose in life and how we don't want to live for things. The enemy's lies are very cleverly disguised, though. I can live simply (as far as my possessions) but not be content.

So help me, Lord, to live for the true riches...and to remember that all things are Yours.

And with all of that said, here are some more pictures of where we now live!


Elijah is in his new room, trying to take a nap (unsuccessfully!) in his new crib. He likes black and white patterns, so I'm trying to combine them with colorful stuff.

Meet Anne! She plays with/cares for Elijah for about two hours on several days during the week. She works for an agency that provides care services but she is also our good friend - one of the first people we met when we moved to Idaho! Elijah loves Anne, too, and even gives her smiles when she comes over.

Hmmm, I have more pictures but blogger isn't working right today. Maybe later?