Family Update

Hello all family and friends! I like to periodically throw random posts on here to see if anyone still looks at it, as I am incredibly inconsistant on posting. So, here is the most recent random post.
God is putting us through what we feel is a bit of a trial/learning phase right now. At times it's very challenging, but also very rewarding. We've both felt challenged to step up many areas of our lives in intensity. Seeking God, exercising better (mainly Joe) and being more purposeful in interacting with the kids on a quality level. That is the "big picture" update.
One random event from our home was the slaughter of our flock of chickens. Unfortunately not by us, nor for any useful purpose. A skunk got into the coop through a weak area in the fence. We woke up this last Saturday morning to the 11 dead chickens. While it felt like a gut punch, it has had a very positive effect in making us think about how and what we value, God's control of all and our choice to have faith in Him. It's also taught us how to construct a slightly more skunk-proof coop...we are young farmers with many more losses and failures to come I am sure. :)
The kids overall are doing well. Josiah is in his first year of preschool and loving it. He is a socialite and loves people in general. It's a blessing to us. Grace is developing a mind of her own and in the last night or two has decided sleeping is something she no longer likes. So we have heard A LOT of crying the last 48 hours or so. Joe was a great husband and got up with her at 4 am this morning. I am praying to not have a repeat of that episode.

In all, as a summary to our lives right now: we are young, with young kids, stumbling our way along with our amazing Lord by our side and learning much along the way. So you more seasoned land owners, animal owners, and parents...please feel free to throw out any valuable tidbits of advice. Hope life is well with you all. I miss those of you I don't see often and Im sure you are in prayers and thoughts often.