Soccer-themed ribbon, a grassy paper fringe and a soccer ball sticker adhered with a pop dot add a kick to these invitations.
Come to Wetumpka to Get Your Kicks
Score Some Goals and Have Some Fun
Then Come to Our House for Post-Soccer Play
Just Head on Over When Your Game Is Done!
When I invited families from church who play AYSO soccer to join us after their games Saturday, I envisioned our weekend looking something like this:
But instead, Saturday looked more like this:
The past week has definitely reminded me that life doesn't always go according to my plans.
With sick children, rainy weather and unexpected delays at every turn, we just couldn't pull things together for a party this weekend. Although I was disappointed to miss out on time with friends, letting go of my plans actually provided great relief. Stress was building throughout the week as unforeseen problems pushed housework, grocery shopping and cooking further and further into the week. I felt a sense of panic as the chores piled up, wondering how I could possibly get everything done in time.
Deciding to cancel the brunch was difficult, but in the end surrendering my expectations lifted a weight from my shoulders. Proverbs 16:9 says, "In your heart you plan your life, but the Lord decides where your steps will take you."
I am reminded that sometimes letting go of the best-laid plans opens my schedule to unexpected blessings. So this weekend instead of brushing off a sick child to accomplish chores, I savored the opportunity to hold my baby. Instead of rushing around trying to rid my house of cluttered toys and dirty hand prints, I paused to appreciate the little ones who fill my home with life. And instead of spending the morning on my feet entertaining a crowd, I enjoyed one-on-one time with each child and even took a bubble bath.
So, yes, this weekend was definitely not what I had planned. I had hoped to kick it up a notch Saturday celebrating with friends, but instead spent a quiet morning kicking back with my family. And in the end I found that in surrendering my own expectations, I got exactly what I needed.
Collage images from Google
