the circus after the circus

This morning we ventured off to the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus at American Airlines Center. I haven't been to the circus in years- probably back when it was in Reunion Arena. (Anybody else have fond memories of Sidekick and Maverick games back in the day? Tatu was the coolest.) Anyway, my mom and dad graciously treated the whole family to breakfast and the "Greatest Show on Earth". We got a solid 3 hours of circus mania since we got there for the pre-show at 10:30. It was a pretty cool deal. They let you walk out on the floor and watch some mini-acts up close. Lily was somewhat overwhelmed at all the people and activity. She squeezed Josh's neck and just stared at all that was going on. 

sidenote: As I watched these entertainers perform their ever so random skills, I couldn't help but wonder how they got started. I mean, do you set out to be a circus star? Are you raised from birth to climb sway poles? Are you recognized and scouted out of high school for your amazing stilt-walking abilities? And it made me wonder why there's not a reality show about the circus (or at least a documentary). I would LOVE to see what goes on behind the scenes and hear the stories of the circus family members.

After the pre-show, we found our seats and Lily seemed to relax a little now that we were a good distance from the action. The next two hours were pretty fun, although it got a little slow during the second act. Yes, there's an intermission at the circus. Come on, they've got to give you as many opportunities as they can to buy the stuff they're selling. I've never seen so many flashy, twirly gadgets in all my life. And in case you get hungry (since you're there for 3 hours- during lunchtime) they've got plenty stocked up to snack on. Mind you, it will cost $12 for that cotton candy, but hey- it comes with a super snazzy hat that is obviously worth far more.

I'd say Lily's favorite parts were the jumping poodles, the popcorn, and the cotton candy. All in all, it was a good show and a good time with the family.



By 2:00 and after our short, sweaty jaunt to the gold mini, we were ready to head home and even looking forward to an afternoon nap. But unfortunately, a nap was not to be this day- for me or my toddler. A little over half-way home on I-35, a car illegally cut over in front of us into the HOV lane (one of Josh's biggest pet peeves). Doesn't seem like too big a deal (except that it's against the law), but this car sent some debris (which looked like a pipe) flying at us. There was no dodging it, and we did the only thing we could do- drove right over it. And most of the time you just look back in the rear view mirror, wonder what it could have been, and get back to conversation. All of which we did, until we smelled gas. Not a good smell when you're traveling down the highway at 75 mph. So Josh pulled over onto the shoulder (thankfully it was a big one), and we all climbed out to notice our gasoline spilling out all over the pavement. So you've got six adults (one being 9 mo pregnant) and a 2 1/2 year old stranded on the side of 35 in 103* heat. 

Since the gas line was obviously punctured, we called 911 and waited for help to arrive. Within 5 minutes, two fire trucks pulled up on the scene. The firemen were great and even let the girls sit in the firetruck while they assessed the situation. 

The tow truck arrived (with half as much haste as the firetrucks) and carried away our beloved gold mini. Dad was a trooper and rode in the tow truck while the rest of us piled into Hillary's and Macy's cars (thank you!!!) and made our way home. 

Through this very hot inconvenience, I'm reminded of how quickly our world can change. In just one instant, when I'm not expecting it, something happens that shakes or even destroys my little safety net. And what is my reaction in that situation? What am I hoping in? Where is my joy founded? Thankfully, all that was damaged today was our minivan. We all walked away by God's grace safely and unharmed. But when the time comes when the damage might be far more costly and leave my soul aching, I long to ultimately be at peace, somehow, knowing that my hope lies with my Heavenly Father and His Sovereign will. That my joy is founded in His eternal goodness, regardless of whether He gives or takes.

Just a few weeks away from Luke's arrival, I find myself more reflective than usual. And sometimes that reflectiveness looks a lot like worry. Or maybe it's not exactly worry, but just that uneasiness about what could be around the corner. Things seem so good now. Josh and I talked about this recently, and he reminded me of several people who, in the midst of great tragedy or hardship, said they see God's grace in their circumstances. They know Him far more now than before this current trial. And it just confirms how sweet our Lord is to give grace in that moment to those who need it most. To sustain them and draw them closer still. I spend so much energy worrying about what may never happen rather than resting in the fact that if/when it does, God is there to walk me through the valley. I want to rest in that even now.

Whew. Hope that makes sense. It's been a long day and a really long post. I'm off to bed. :)