Moving On...

One month and 4 days after a house fire that declared everything a "total loss," the insurance company accepted the contractor's bid and they finally gave approval to KNOCK IT DOWN!

So many have asked what's next. The rebuilding process. I'm not going to explain all the insurance reasons because I don't understand them all myself, but the house has to be rebuilt on THAT SAME property. The floor plans can be changed - meaning we have been given an amount that the insurance company, contractor and we feel is fair to be able to rebuild the same house. If another floor plan is chosen/used, it just has to be within that amount or pay the difference. Some modifications will be made! :) Okay, maybe a lot.

The reality is, there has been a lot going on. More than just the house fire. Nearly two weeks ago my mom was taken off her 7 day cruise and hospitalized in St. Maarten with internal bleeding. Two days and four units of blood later, they were finally in Miami trying to make their way back to Lynchburg when she had to be hospitalized again. Another 4 days passed before they'd make it home. She's now recovering, though weak, with several bleeding ulcers. The event alone was traumatic, but not being able to communicate, knowing they were first in a different country then still out of state, it was certainly a difficult situation.

So here I am ... one trial after another. Praying for guidance and wisdom. Praying for grace and strength. Praying everyday when I wake up that I'm prepared to face whatever may come my way.

But I know one thing. God is sovereign. He's not surprised by any situation. And He does not give us more than we can handle. I'm standing strong on that promise.

The rental house is available this weekend. What is the need? Honestly? Everything. Stocking the fridge, cabinets, pantry, cleaning supplies, essentials. I've started a registry at Target.com to try and get the basics.

One day at a time. That's all I can do. Taking one day at a time, one trial at a time, one step a time, one promise at a time.

(P.S. In case you're wondering why I'm being so honest, I have no choice. I live a life in the "public eye" through ministry, work, and my personality. I don't write these honest and open updates for sympathy or accolades. I share from my heart because I know that I'm not the only one hurting. I know that others are going through their own trials, their own pain. Pain and trials and circumstances are a part of life. We can't choose them. But we can choose our response.)