The Pavlik Family: First EVER Sledding!

I took the kids sledding for the first time EVER this week. "What?!" you say. "You have never taken your kids sledding?!" you say. No, I have not. In my head I imagine the mounds of soggy gloves, muddy snowpants (because, yes, snowpants somehow always get mud on them), trails of melted snow all over the floor, spilled hot chocolate all over the table, and a marshmallow squished between my toes. And do you know what? All of that happened-well, except the marshmallow. Was it worth it? Oh yes, yes, YES! The joy sledding brought my kids and myself far outweighed the labor it took to get there and the clean up after. There are still a couple coats to be hung and slightly soggy mittens to dry, but I wouldn't trade the memories made!

The day got me wondering, "How often in life I have done this to myself"? I wonder how many joyful experiences I have opted out of. How many meaningful gifts the Lord may have bestowed, but out of fear of labor, or man, or rejection I have turned the other way and stayed "comfy". Lord, you are full of grace, and I am confident that, "...He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." Phil 1:6. A friend of mine recently told me that she prays that she won't stay the same. Lord don't let me stay the same. Work in me, refine me, grow my love for others, give me the strength to step out in the opportunities you place in front of me. I know you will change me, and make me more like you. I can have confidence that you will. I will be discouraged if I step out in flesh to try to make the changes I want, but you are good, and your Holy Spirit is always at work in me. This work will never end until the day You, Jesus Christ, return to take me home with you. What hope and joy this brings my life!! Next time I see those big fluffy flakes begin to fall, I am going to start laying out the snowclothes! Here are some pics of the day!

Ready to go!