“But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.) And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8:25-28‬ ‭

I feel like I spent so much of my single years waiting and hoping and praying for the man of my dreams.

He came at just the right time. When I finally let go of my control – He showed up!

There were a lot of things I prayed for in a man and I can honestly say God heard beyond my simple prayers and answered me far beyond what I ever hoped or prayed for.  My prayers sounded much like the Al Green song, “Tired of Being Alone” with the chorus constantly on repeat.

God is so full of grace! Often times when Valentine’s Day would roll around I would feel sorry for myself and think, “Ugh! What a stupid day. Stupid couples! 🙄”.
… But now Valentine’s Day has really become one of my favorite “holidays”! To me this day is truly a celebration of the gift of love God has given me! He has gifted me far beyond anything I ever thought possible! Valentine’s Day leaves me sitting here marveling at how loving and gracious God is!

Did I pray for a man “who’s voice makes me melt like a Popsicle on the Fourth of July”? No. But God blessed me beyond my simple prayers.

Did I pray for a man who would sit with me, encourage me, and hold my hair every time I puked? No. But God blessed me beyond my simple prayers.

Did I pray for a man who would embrace my imperfections? No. But God blessed me beyond my simple prayers.

Did I pray for a man who would recognize my need for sleep and get up every morning with our early bird girl & bring me coffee in bed? No. But holy moly did God bless me beyond my simple prayers!

God made Eynar Ernesto to be my husband and me to be his wife – simple as that concept might seem it is awe inspiring and beautiful if you really think about it.

Now… Did I pray for a man who loves to cook… Not just loves to cook but is an absolutely amazing chef ? Nooo… Honestly that thought never even crossed my mind – I didn’t think it was possible.

Our Valentine’s Day tradition that my Eynar made up when we were dating is for him to make an elaborate meal (something he’s never made before) all from scratch for a remarkable Valentine’s Day dinner!

Here’s a look at this year…

1. Brie stuffed mushrooms

2. Basil, goat cheese, & pancetta puff pastry bites

3. Crab cakes with creamy siracha sauce

4. Grilled Filet & Lobster with roasted spring vegetables

5. Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake (OH MY GOSHHH!)

 

Did I pray for this deliciousness, amazingness, I don’t have to cook a thing-ness? No. But God blessed me far beyond my simple prayers.

And every Valentine’s Day I’m humbly reminded of that.