Wonderland

Last night was Wonderland night for the Abster's school, so the Zfam loaded up, had a picnic in the park, got our hands stamped and headed into Wonderland. Since before I was even big enough to ride roller coasters, I have loved them. I can remember being a child and just itching for the day that my little head would come to the black line so that the ride attendant would give me the go-ahead. I have not outgrown my love of roller coasters and I was looking forward to at least a couple of rides last night. Once through the gate, Abigail immediately wanted to go find her friends, so I headed off with her while Chris and Rebecca stayed in the part with the rides for the little guys. It didn't take long for me to realize that the days of riding rides with Abigail are over, at least when her friends are around. Duh! So I spent the evening, wandering around the amusement park looking for my adventurous daughter. I stopped to chat with other parents from our school here and there, but mostly I was alone. I was also sad that I wasn't getting to watch Rebecca ride the boats, helicopters and merry-go-round, but I guess that's how it is when you have kids with big age differences. Just as I was thinking that my hand stamp was a complete waste, Chris and Rebecca showed up and the three of us rode the ski lift ride while Abigail waited in line for the Rattlesnake. After that, Abigail threw me a bone and rode the Himalaya with me and on the way out of the park, our little family of four rode the merry-go-round together. It was a nice evening, even though I never got to ride a roller coaster.

It was late before I got the girls to bed so I didn't get much Bible study done. I continued to read some in the book of Job and even though it is a very depressing story, I have found encouragement. I often get frustrated with myself because since I have been actively pursuing a relationship with God, I feel like I am on a continuous roller coaster ride. One day, I'll feel as though I'm floating on air and bursting with joy and then the next I'll be feeling inadequate and isolated. On the up days, I am thankful and praise God, but it is on those dark days that I find myself really leaning into Him and I think that is when our relationship grows. So, I am thankful for this roller coaster. Who needs Wonderland?