Tuesday, November 6, 2012
The Things Kids Say
Owen: What happens if you are 103 and still in Preschool?
Aiden: They let you go for 3 years and then they pay you to go to First Grade. Here you go, here's 20 bucks go to 1st grade.
Mom: They don't let you go that long.
----
Aiden: Mom, when's the next time you go to Wal-Mart?
Mom: I don't know. Why?
Aiden: Because I want to get my girlfriend a present.
Mom: What are you going to get her?
Aiden: I don't know -- (hee, hee, hee) a cabbage head.
Mom: A head of cabbage (ha, ha, ha).
Aiden: Yeah.
Pause
Mom: The next time I go to Walmart, I'll pick up your head of cabbage.
Aiden: No, I want it to be a surprise.
Mom: For you or her?
Aiden: For her. I don't want a head of spinach.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Angels Among Us
This is a short and sweet post. I am among the living, and I don't feel like blogging all that much, but I had to share this thought with you.
You know the saying, "there are angels among us.?" Well, I've decided to stop looking for the angels and start looking for Jesus among us.
Here's a poem for you:
Black shiny soft touch
Blowing on the windy day
Silky, lustrous hair
Friday, August 24, 2012
The Holy Object of My Affection
Dearest Loved Ones,
God is just TOO much. I wish I could explain to you in a way that would go directly to your heart and in your understanding, then you would seek HIM with your all. Because HE is just so cool that it makes me giggle way down deep inside. It's a secret that He's given.
My paternal grandmother passed away about 3 years ago. When she passed away, she willed her Bible to my cousin. To be honest, I was jealous. I wanted her Bible. I normally could care less for objects or "things" that people own. But, this was her Holy Book. Sort of like Moses' staff or Elijah's cloak. This is the book that she touched and that she read and underlined and was filled with joy and sometimes tears. This was the object that she used to remain in close relationship with God.
It's as if I possessed her Bible, then I could have the same closeness. I could gain that same wisdom and see it with her eyes.
Now, get this. This cousin who received her Bible passed away yesterday. He is the first of my generation in our family to pass. Actually, he's been the first to pass on that side of the family since my grandmother passed away. Now, I SEE. It was God's purpose that he had my grandmother's Bible. It was her wish that my cousin would grow closer to HIM. There just wasn't much time.
My grandmother even made a comment before she passed that my cousin "needed it." Believe me, he is not the only one in our family that needed it and still don't know it.
I am reading the Bible chronologically right now. Here is one of the verses from last night's reading:
Surely the Lord God does nothing,
Unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets. Amos 3:7
Then here is the Bible verse from this morning:
No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God—his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began. 8 But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. 9 That is what the Scriptures mean when they say,
Here is a verse from our Bible Study:
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5
So, now you know where you find wisdom. It isn't from things, it is from HIM, THE ONE AND ONLY TRUE object of my affection. He isn't a thing, HE is a who. HE is GOD, the LORD ALMIGHTY. May your soul be open to His words.
God Bless!
God is just TOO much. I wish I could explain to you in a way that would go directly to your heart and in your understanding, then you would seek HIM with your all. Because HE is just so cool that it makes me giggle way down deep inside. It's a secret that He's given.
My paternal grandmother passed away about 3 years ago. When she passed away, she willed her Bible to my cousin. To be honest, I was jealous. I wanted her Bible. I normally could care less for objects or "things" that people own. But, this was her Holy Book. Sort of like Moses' staff or Elijah's cloak. This is the book that she touched and that she read and underlined and was filled with joy and sometimes tears. This was the object that she used to remain in close relationship with God.
It's as if I possessed her Bible, then I could have the same closeness. I could gain that same wisdom and see it with her eyes.
Now, get this. This cousin who received her Bible passed away yesterday. He is the first of my generation in our family to pass. Actually, he's been the first to pass on that side of the family since my grandmother passed away. Now, I SEE. It was God's purpose that he had my grandmother's Bible. It was her wish that my cousin would grow closer to HIM. There just wasn't much time.
My grandmother even made a comment before she passed that my cousin "needed it." Believe me, he is not the only one in our family that needed it and still don't know it.
I am reading the Bible chronologically right now. Here is one of the verses from last night's reading:
Surely the Lord God does nothing,
Unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets. Amos 3:7
Then here is the Bible verse from this morning:
No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God—his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began. 8 But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. 9 That is what the Scriptures mean when they say,
“No eye has seen, no ear has heard,
and no mind has imagined
what God has prepared
for those who love him.”
and no mind has imagined
what God has prepared
for those who love him.”
10 But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets. 1 Corinthians 2:7-10
Here is a verse from our Bible Study:
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5
So, now you know where you find wisdom. It isn't from things, it is from HIM, THE ONE AND ONLY TRUE object of my affection. He isn't a thing, HE is a who. HE is GOD, the LORD ALMIGHTY. May your soul be open to His words.
God Bless!
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
First Day of School 2012
The big boys got on the bus today for the first day of school.
I love the first day of school, but it also brings about some sadness, also.
This morning after the boys got on the bus, Faith started crying. I guess she was sad to see them go, too. It was cute.
Thank you Lord for all the many blessings.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Fragility
Yesterday, I was washing a fragile bell that we had received as a wedding present 14 years ago. It slipped out of my hand and hit another glass jar. The side of the bell was chipped in several places. I am not one to keep a lot of nick knacks ESPECIALLY broken ones, so I threw it away.
It got me thinking about the fragility of humans.
There is physical pain and there is emotional pain. Sometimes mental pain. Sometimes all together, sometimes separate. Sometimes just so overwhelming.
A few days ago one of my brothers called and we were speaking about how emotional pain can last a lifetime.
I visit a blog by Kate Krull about her and her family's journey with her 6 year-old daughter fighting cancer. There is pain there, but there is also gratitude and blessings. On her blog, she had a Link party.
So many of the blogs that I have read are about the pain of losing a child. There are also blogs where people don't know Jesus. These blogs have more pain than many of the one's who have lost a child.
How I pray that those people can find the Joy that Jesus has to offer.
This is what Solomon (the wisest man who ever lived) has to say, “Meaningless! Meaningless!”
says the Teacher.“Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.” Ecclesiastes 1:2
Without the savior everything is meaningless, or as it says in another translation "vanity".
People are fragile and that is why we need Jesus.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
He has so many good promises for us. We have to repent. If we aren't turning from our sins, then we aren't HIS. Time doesn't heal wounds. Jesus does. Maybe not on this earth, maybe not in your lifetime, but in HIS time and for HIS glory.
The Lord loves us, but we have to allow ourselves to be broken before HIM. He doesn't throw us away. He is waiting for us to come to HIM. No one or no thing can take the place of HIM. He is the healing balm to our heart, our soul, and our being.
Until next time, my prayers are for the broken hearted. For those who have lost. For those who are lost. In JESUS Name, Amen
It got me thinking about the fragility of humans.
There is physical pain and there is emotional pain. Sometimes mental pain. Sometimes all together, sometimes separate. Sometimes just so overwhelming.
A few days ago one of my brothers called and we were speaking about how emotional pain can last a lifetime.
I visit a blog by Kate Krull about her and her family's journey with her 6 year-old daughter fighting cancer. There is pain there, but there is also gratitude and blessings. On her blog, she had a Link party.
So many of the blogs that I have read are about the pain of losing a child. There are also blogs where people don't know Jesus. These blogs have more pain than many of the one's who have lost a child.
How I pray that those people can find the Joy that Jesus has to offer.
This is what Solomon (the wisest man who ever lived) has to say, “Meaningless! Meaningless!”
says the Teacher.“Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.” Ecclesiastes 1:2
Without the savior everything is meaningless, or as it says in another translation "vanity".
People are fragile and that is why we need Jesus.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
He has so many good promises for us. We have to repent. If we aren't turning from our sins, then we aren't HIS. Time doesn't heal wounds. Jesus does. Maybe not on this earth, maybe not in your lifetime, but in HIS time and for HIS glory.
The Lord loves us, but we have to allow ourselves to be broken before HIM. He doesn't throw us away. He is waiting for us to come to HIM. No one or no thing can take the place of HIM. He is the healing balm to our heart, our soul, and our being.
Until next time, my prayers are for the broken hearted. For those who have lost. For those who are lost. In JESUS Name, Amen
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Romans12:1-2
12 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans12:1-2
I get so excited when I see Bible verses over and over again. This is the verse of the day. It was not only on my "you version" Bible, but it was also the verse for my daily devotional. God is awesome.
I get so excited when I see Bible verses over and over again. This is the verse of the day. It was not only on my "you version" Bible, but it was also the verse for my daily devotional. God is awesome.
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Hope FILLED
As I've said before, I LOVE rainbows. Yesterday, we were celebrating Shawn's grandmother's birthday. There was a double rainbow. One directly on top of the other. It lasted a good 10-15 minutes. I am filled with so much HOPE when I see a rainbow.
Maybe you won't see a rainbow today, but I pray that you can be filled with HOPE anyway.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. – Romans 15:13
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1
GOD BLESS
Maybe you won't see a rainbow today, but I pray that you can be filled with HOPE anyway.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. – Romans 15:13
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. – Hebrews 11:1
GOD BLESS
Thursday, July 26, 2012
What Will Move You? -- US?
Last Sunday, I asked this question to our small congregation of gatherers, "What gets you to move?"
Our lives are so busy that we ignore what is REALLY going on around us. Have you looked at your children lately? Have you really sat and looked? Have you looked at your spouse, your family, your friends, your neighbors, your enemies?
Have you ever wanted to change the world, but you just couldn't get past the how of it? Yes, the above picture was taken almost 20 years ago, but hunger is still in our world. Poor is ever prevalent. We may not be poor as far as money is concerned in the good ole -- U.S. of A., but we are poor. We are spiritually poor.
Ask yourself -- how am I going to change the world?
Here is how I am going to change the world:
1. PRAY
2. Intercede on behalf of those who won't/don't
3. Be tenderhearted to the ones physically and emotionally nearest to me
4. Spread the Word and GOOD NEWS (promises) of Christ
5. Donate my money to causes that helps the poor, orphaned, and widowed
6. Volunteer to help the needy when I can
7. Open my eyes and heart -- to see what God sees -- and do what HE says.
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27
And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ Matthew 25:40
The photographer left the little girl and only God knows what her fate was. Will you leave children like these too? What if you are that child? What if your child or grandchild was that child?
Here are at least two places where you can help:
Open Hands for the Fatherless (OH4F)
Holt International Children's Services
Ask yourself how many people are starving? Not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually.
The above picture is disturbing, but it can also be considered a good gift from above. It allows us to see the direness of starvation. It shows us what lack of hope looks like.
Please, give someone HOPE, today.
All my love,
Christina
Our lives are so busy that we ignore what is REALLY going on around us. Have you looked at your children lately? Have you really sat and looked? Have you looked at your spouse, your family, your friends, your neighbors, your enemies?
 |
| 1993 Sudan Girl by Kevin Carter |
Have you ever wanted to change the world, but you just couldn't get past the how of it? Yes, the above picture was taken almost 20 years ago, but hunger is still in our world. Poor is ever prevalent. We may not be poor as far as money is concerned in the good ole -- U.S. of A., but we are poor. We are spiritually poor.
Ask yourself -- how am I going to change the world?
Here is how I am going to change the world:
1. PRAY
2. Intercede on behalf of those who won't/don't
3. Be tenderhearted to the ones physically and emotionally nearest to me
4. Spread the Word and GOOD NEWS (promises) of Christ
5. Donate my money to causes that helps the poor, orphaned, and widowed
6. Volunteer to help the needy when I can
7. Open my eyes and heart -- to see what God sees -- and do what HE says.
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27
And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ Matthew 25:40
The photographer left the little girl and only God knows what her fate was. Will you leave children like these too? What if you are that child? What if your child or grandchild was that child?
Here are at least two places where you can help:
Open Hands for the Fatherless (OH4F)
Holt International Children's Services
Ask yourself how many people are starving? Not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually.
The above picture is disturbing, but it can also be considered a good gift from above. It allows us to see the direness of starvation. It shows us what lack of hope looks like.
Please, give someone HOPE, today.
All my love,
Christina
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Memories
When my siblings and myself were growing up, there was a summer that my Dad lived in a single wide trailer. We would go with my Mom every 2 week to visit him. I was 10.
We (mostly my older brother and sister) would climb the walls in the hallway.
This picture of Aiden climbling the walls brought back memories of that time. He is 11.
This hat was given to one of the boys in VBS a few years ago. Liam found it put it on and then wanted to sleep in it.
Being silly.
The silly copy cat.
We (mostly my older brother and sister) would climb the walls in the hallway.
This picture of Aiden climbling the walls brought back memories of that time. He is 11.
This hat was given to one of the boys in VBS a few years ago. Liam found it put it on and then wanted to sleep in it.
Being silly.
The silly copy cat.
Love these kids!
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Visit with Mom
This morning my Mom came to deliver a cat. She had a further destination, so she could only stay about 2 hours. We had a very delightful visit.
My Mother's mother passed away a little over a month ago, so I am realizing now how precious the time is that I get to spend with my own mother.
It was a sweet moment.
My Mother's mother passed away a little over a month ago, so I am realizing now how precious the time is that I get to spend with my own mother.
It was a sweet moment.
Monday, July 2, 2012
For Mothers
I often read the transcripts for the "Revive Our Hearts" ministry (I read because if I listen to the radio broadcast, I get interrupted). Todays was really good for "young" mothers who need to be encouraged on building their family and instilling Christ in the hearts of their children.
I would love to do the Entrusted With a Child's Heart Study.
I would love to do the Entrusted With a Child's Heart Study.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
One of the Best Compliments
This week I was putting our ladder into our small pop-up swimming pool. I put all the weight of my right foot on the ladder and squished my left big toe.
I was sharing with some of the ladies at church about my injury and then I share that my grandma always said that your "such and such injury is a long ways away from your heart.
One of the ladies said, "You have such a big heart that maybe your toe isn't a long ways away."
That is one of the best compliments I think I've ever received. Oh, how I love to love on people and bring them joy.
Now, I have to share a strange comment. I rarely wear makeup. It makes me feel phsyically uncomfortable (allergies) and sometimes emotionally (long story of my many insecurities).
I wore makeup last night to our VBS Program. One of the boys who is going into the 7th grade said, "You look like a clay model."
Not sure I want to be a clay model. Maybe I shouldn't have worn makeup.
I was sharing with some of the ladies at church about my injury and then I share that my grandma always said that your "such and such injury is a long ways away from your heart.
One of the ladies said, "You have such a big heart that maybe your toe isn't a long ways away."
That is one of the best compliments I think I've ever received. Oh, how I love to love on people and bring them joy.
Now, I have to share a strange comment. I rarely wear makeup. It makes me feel phsyically uncomfortable (allergies) and sometimes emotionally (long story of my many insecurities).
I wore makeup last night to our VBS Program. One of the boys who is going into the 7th grade said, "You look like a clay model."
Not sure I want to be a clay model. Maybe I shouldn't have worn makeup.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Separation Anxiety / Robin Man / Wonderful Surprise
Written Sunday, 6/24/2012
I have now been Faith's Mommy longer than any other mother figure that has taken care of her. We have entered the "MAJOR" separation anxiety stage. Although it is very terrifying for her when I leave, it really makes my heart feel good that she loves me so and wants me. Shawn and I were going on a date last night to celebrate our anniversary. We left the kids with Shawn's Mom. Faith absolutely loves and adores her grandparents, but last night, she was hanging on to my dress and kicking and screaming. "I want my MOMMY!" (I would like to point out that even when I picked her up from her Foster Mother in South Korea, she didn't act that way.) I think we are making healthy strides in attachment.
Shawn stripped her away from me and put her in his parent's car in her car seat. Shawn's Mom said that she didn't cry any more after that. One thing I love about Shawn is at supper he asked, "Is it bad that I am worried about baby girl?" I said, "No. and Yes. She'll be fine." Of course then I start worrying and almost called to check on her, but I knew they'd call if it was something they couldn't handle.
I love her so much. I am glad that she wants to be with me, even though some days it is exhausting, I would not exchange it for anything else on this earth.
Robin Man
Owen has always L-O-V-E-D to be a super hero. Faith is now really starting to play. She likes to say that she is Superman. Owen had an old Robin outfit. Faith calls herself, "Robin Man."
Of course Robin Man always carries her sunglasses case (purse) with her.
Wonderful Surprise
For the last 5 weeks, we have only been to church 1 time due to vacation, sickness, and a holiday. I have missed my church family dearly. I was SUPER excited to be back to church and Sunday School. When I walked into church we had a wonderful surprise. The four girls from Eternity Focus were seated in the pews. The girls are very good friends with one of our Sunday School students and they have also become good friends with another family in our church. I was so excited to see them.
Unfortunately, for them, I had planned all week to use one of their songs ("Live the Lyrics") as the topic for our Sunday School class. We looked at the Hymn "I Surrender All", which their song is about. I love these girls, I hope you check them out and are blessed by their music.
Tonight, I am looking forward to Bible Study and Worship Service following. There is no other place I'd rather be than in the house of God.
I have now been Faith's Mommy longer than any other mother figure that has taken care of her. We have entered the "MAJOR" separation anxiety stage. Although it is very terrifying for her when I leave, it really makes my heart feel good that she loves me so and wants me. Shawn and I were going on a date last night to celebrate our anniversary. We left the kids with Shawn's Mom. Faith absolutely loves and adores her grandparents, but last night, she was hanging on to my dress and kicking and screaming. "I want my MOMMY!" (I would like to point out that even when I picked her up from her Foster Mother in South Korea, she didn't act that way.) I think we are making healthy strides in attachment.
Shawn stripped her away from me and put her in his parent's car in her car seat. Shawn's Mom said that she didn't cry any more after that. One thing I love about Shawn is at supper he asked, "Is it bad that I am worried about baby girl?" I said, "No. and Yes. She'll be fine." Of course then I start worrying and almost called to check on her, but I knew they'd call if it was something they couldn't handle.
I love her so much. I am glad that she wants to be with me, even though some days it is exhausting, I would not exchange it for anything else on this earth.
Robin Man
Owen has always L-O-V-E-D to be a super hero. Faith is now really starting to play. She likes to say that she is Superman. Owen had an old Robin outfit. Faith calls herself, "Robin Man."
Of course Robin Man always carries her sunglasses case (purse) with her.
Wonderful Surprise
For the last 5 weeks, we have only been to church 1 time due to vacation, sickness, and a holiday. I have missed my church family dearly. I was SUPER excited to be back to church and Sunday School. When I walked into church we had a wonderful surprise. The four girls from Eternity Focus were seated in the pews. The girls are very good friends with one of our Sunday School students and they have also become good friends with another family in our church. I was so excited to see them.
Unfortunately, for them, I had planned all week to use one of their songs ("Live the Lyrics") as the topic for our Sunday School class. We looked at the Hymn "I Surrender All", which their song is about. I love these girls, I hope you check them out and are blessed by their music.
Tonight, I am looking forward to Bible Study and Worship Service following. There is no other place I'd rather be than in the house of God.
Friday, June 22, 2012
The Stirring of the Soul
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:1-4
I love Colossians 3.
Sometimes Bible verses just stir ones soul and all you can say is mmmmm....mmmm.....mmm from your innermost being. The m's are an inaudible form of thanksgiving to our creator. You know that feeling of overwhelming joy and peace and love and more positive emotion than you can even describe? That is Jesus living within.
For an instance it is a feeling that I don't want to share (yes, that's sin). I want to keep it all to myself. It is a type of hidden secret, but then I see the selfishness in that and realize that I really do want others to feel it, too. Many someones shared Christ with me, so I must share Christ with as many someones as I come in contact with.
If we share Jesus, then more peace, love, joy, kindness, and gentleness and forgiveness will be on this earth.
I hope you take the time to commune with Jesus today, so you can feel HIS presence, too.
Thank you, JESUS.
May God Bless you today with HIS Word.
I love Colossians 3.
Sometimes Bible verses just stir ones soul and all you can say is mmmmm....mmmm.....mmm from your innermost being. The m's are an inaudible form of thanksgiving to our creator. You know that feeling of overwhelming joy and peace and love and more positive emotion than you can even describe? That is Jesus living within.
For an instance it is a feeling that I don't want to share (yes, that's sin). I want to keep it all to myself. It is a type of hidden secret, but then I see the selfishness in that and realize that I really do want others to feel it, too. Many someones shared Christ with me, so I must share Christ with as many someones as I come in contact with.
If we share Jesus, then more peace, love, joy, kindness, and gentleness and forgiveness will be on this earth.
I hope you take the time to commune with Jesus today, so you can feel HIS presence, too.
Thank you, JESUS.
May God Bless you today with HIS Word.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Father's Day and a Funny Quote I Found Today
On Father's Day we went to the zoo.
Just look at this wild animal:
He really wanted his picture taken that day.
It was hot, but we had fun.
Thank you, Jesus, for our blessings.
Now, to completely switch gears, it is funny how God works. I was looking for something this morning and I happened to find Aiden's birth story. Owen asked if I had a birth story for him. I looked it up. Here is the quote I found: "Shawn says we might adopt in 4-5 years, earlier if I can convince him
."
Owen was born in 2005. We started the adoption process 5 1/2 years after Shawn made this comment. I didn't try to convince him of the adopting earlier, but when it came time to adopt, there was no waiting on my part. I jumped in with both feet.
God was at work in Shawn's and my heart way back then. I had completely forgotten about even talking about it that early on. We had talked about it again in 2008, but decided to get pregnant instead.
God's plans, God's timing.
I guess I should also add that today is our 14th anniversary. Another one of God's blessings.
Thank you God!
Just look at this wild animal:
It was hot, but we had fun.
Thank you, Jesus, for our blessings.
Now, to completely switch gears, it is funny how God works. I was looking for something this morning and I happened to find Aiden's birth story. Owen asked if I had a birth story for him. I looked it up. Here is the quote I found: "Shawn says we might adopt in 4-5 years, earlier if I can convince him
." Owen was born in 2005. We started the adoption process 5 1/2 years after Shawn made this comment. I didn't try to convince him of the adopting earlier, but when it came time to adopt, there was no waiting on my part. I jumped in with both feet.
God was at work in Shawn's and my heart way back then. I had completely forgotten about even talking about it that early on. We had talked about it again in 2008, but decided to get pregnant instead.
God's plans, God's timing.
I guess I should also add that today is our 14th anniversary. Another one of God's blessings.
Thank you God!
Monday, June 11, 2012
My Birthday Weekend and Holt Picnic
We had such a great weekend. On Friday, Shawn got off work early and we went down to Great Wolf Lodge. The kids had such a great time. We don't have any pictures of it, but they loved the outdoor pool. Faith L-O-V-E-S the hot tub. The hot tub has seating in it and she likes to push off of it and "swim" to me. We finally got Owen to go down one of the big slides by himself. Liam and Faith both went down the little slides. Owen was too big to go down the little slides any more. Aiden loves all of it, especially the tube rides and basketball.
On Saturday, we were able to go to the Holt Picnic. It was nice to meet other parents in real life that I've talked to for so long via the Internet (Jerusha and Paula). It was good to see Becca and Cindy again. It was great to meet new people (Frederique and Roger and Nancy and Todd). I was sad that one couple wasn't there. They had gone to the picnic in Omaha instead (missed you Kelly).
Aiden had such a good time playing with Cindy's boy. It is really neat how they hit it off. Liam and Owen had a great time on the playground. They were all sweaty, hot, and hungry by the time we were ready to leave.
And Faith. Well, she was a rockstar as always. Here are some pictures:
Once again, we don't have any pictures of Shawn. He is the picture taker.
Sunday was great. We went to church and Eternity Focus performed for our church service. Then 4 of the girls in the group (minus the youngest sister who went to youth group) came to our Sunday School class. It was fun. I hope they (all our students) enjoyed it as much as I did.
We did something a little different in class. We read this Bible verse:
Ecclesiastes 12:11-13
The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails —given by one shepherd. Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them.
Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.
Then after we read the Bible verse, I asked them 2 questions that they had to do an independent study on:
1. How do you know Jesus knows you? Explain (using Bible verses)
2. How do you know Jesus? Give examples. (Also support with Bible verses)
3. Pray. Meditate. Seek.
It's a week for some deep reflecting. God Bless.
On Saturday, we were able to go to the Holt Picnic. It was nice to meet other parents in real life that I've talked to for so long via the Internet (Jerusha and Paula). It was good to see Becca and Cindy again. It was great to meet new people (Frederique and Roger and Nancy and Todd). I was sad that one couple wasn't there. They had gone to the picnic in Omaha instead (missed you Kelly).
Aiden had such a good time playing with Cindy's boy. It is really neat how they hit it off. Liam and Owen had a great time on the playground. They were all sweaty, hot, and hungry by the time we were ready to leave.
And Faith. Well, she was a rockstar as always. Here are some pictures:
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| Only picture we have of Liam with the blue, green, and white striped shirt. |
Sunday was great. We went to church and Eternity Focus performed for our church service. Then 4 of the girls in the group (minus the youngest sister who went to youth group) came to our Sunday School class. It was fun. I hope they (all our students) enjoyed it as much as I did.
We did something a little different in class. We read this Bible verse:
Ecclesiastes 12:11-13
The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails —given by one shepherd. Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them.
Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.
Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the duty of all mankind.
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the duty of all mankind.
Then after we read the Bible verse, I asked them 2 questions that they had to do an independent study on:
1. How do you know Jesus knows you? Explain (using Bible verses)
2. How do you know Jesus? Give examples. (Also support with Bible verses)
3. Pray. Meditate. Seek.
It's a week for some deep reflecting. God Bless.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Vacation Day 6, 7, 8 - Notified that Grandma Died, 9
On Vacation day 6 we checked out of the Holiday Inn and checked into the Henderson Park Inn. We went to the beach in between checking out and checking in. The Henderson Park Inn was beautiful.
We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast on Day 7. THEN I hit my wall. I was done being on vacation. I was ready to go home. I was weepy and irritable. This place is beautiful, but I wanted to be with my kids.
We left in the afternoon after going to the beach one more time. We drove through Alabama and Mississippi (state 11) to Houma, Louisiana (state 12) and spent the night. We are fans of the TV show "Swamp People". We wanted to see the alligators up close and personal.
After we ate breakfast (Friday, Day 8), I was curling my hair when my Mom called me to let me know that my Grandma had passed away the night before. My sister was taking care of the kids and I wasn't able to get a hold of her for a little bit. I thought she might want to drive up to see my family, but she was unable to because of the amount of days she could take off work. Shawn was willing to let me fly back if I needed to pick up the kids early. Since it was Memorial Day weekend, the funeral wasn't going to be for several days, so I decided I wouldn't fly out. We decided to enjoy our day in Louisiana.
We toured the Greenwood Gator Farm in Gibson, La. We had SO much fun. We toured with Tim. It was better than going to the zoo for me.
This was so much fun. You really need to go experience it for yourself.
Then we wanted to visit the alligators in the wild, so we went to a nature reserve. Google maps led us on a tangent, but we were so glad it did because this is what Shawn was able to take a picture of:
We saw several baby alligators on the trail. Shawn said, "The Mama has to be around here somewhere because Tim said that where the babies are, the Mom is nearby."
We didn't see her walking toward the end, but we saw this when we turned around and were walking back. You can see the alligator toward the middle-right hand side of the picture, poking her eye's out of the water. As you can see, there isn't much of a rail on the boardwalk.
She hissed at us after we'd walked by her. Shawn took several pictures of her.
We stayed in Texarkana, Texas (state 13) on Day 8 night. Then on Day 9 we drove from Texarkana through Arkansas (state 14) and then through Missouri and into Kansas (state 15).
I was so happy to see my kids.
This is what we did the day we got home:
We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast on Day 7. THEN I hit my wall. I was done being on vacation. I was ready to go home. I was weepy and irritable. This place is beautiful, but I wanted to be with my kids.
We left in the afternoon after going to the beach one more time. We drove through Alabama and Mississippi (state 11) to Houma, Louisiana (state 12) and spent the night. We are fans of the TV show "Swamp People". We wanted to see the alligators up close and personal.
After we ate breakfast (Friday, Day 8), I was curling my hair when my Mom called me to let me know that my Grandma had passed away the night before. My sister was taking care of the kids and I wasn't able to get a hold of her for a little bit. I thought she might want to drive up to see my family, but she was unable to because of the amount of days she could take off work. Shawn was willing to let me fly back if I needed to pick up the kids early. Since it was Memorial Day weekend, the funeral wasn't going to be for several days, so I decided I wouldn't fly out. We decided to enjoy our day in Louisiana.
We toured the Greenwood Gator Farm in Gibson, La. We had SO much fun. We toured with Tim. It was better than going to the zoo for me.
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| Shawn with baby alligator and Tim "owner" and our tour guide. |
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| Turtles on the farm |
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| WOW! Me holding a gator. |
Then we wanted to visit the alligators in the wild, so we went to a nature reserve. Google maps led us on a tangent, but we were so glad it did because this is what Shawn was able to take a picture of:
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| 1st alligator we saw on nature reserve |
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| 2nd alligator we saw on nature reserve |
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| Animals you might see on the trail. I was afraid of the bear, snake, and alligator in that order. |
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| Nature Trail |
We didn't see her walking toward the end, but we saw this when we turned around and were walking back. You can see the alligator toward the middle-right hand side of the picture, poking her eye's out of the water. As you can see, there isn't much of a rail on the boardwalk.
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| This picture shows you the size of her head. |
She hissed at us after we'd walked by her. Shawn took several pictures of her.
We stayed in Texarkana, Texas (state 13) on Day 8 night. Then on Day 9 we drove from Texarkana through Arkansas (state 14) and then through Missouri and into Kansas (state 15).
I was so happy to see my kids.
This is what we did the day we got home:
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Vacation Day 5 - Madly Missing My Kids
This morning we woke up and Shawn took a walk on the beach while I blogged.
Then we left and went to Topsail Hill Preserve. We hiked about a mile to the beach. We walked along the beach for a while and then Shawn decided to go in. I went in with him.
The water is so clear here, that it is easier for me to go out farther. If anything is coming at you, you are going to see it.
I told him that it is amazing that the water is so clear. It has to be dirty. Just think of the amount of whale poop in it, not to mention spit. It is not good to get seawater in your mouth.
We ate lunch at Panera Bread. It was SO good. I had chicken tortilla soup and a half turkey sandwich. Shawn ordered a blueberry scone, so I ate half of it also.
Then we headed back to the hotel and went swimming again. We had bought an umbrella and a boogy board. The waves were getting bigger, so we were beat by the time we were done swimming. Then we lazily, laid on the beach under our umbrella. It was very nice and beautiful.
I told Shawn that I missed the kids.
We then went up to shower and ordered pizza delivery. We took the pizza down to the deck behind the hotel. We were enjoying our meal when I started hearing, "Help. Help. HELP!" My first thought was, "Is someone messing arround or does someone REALLY need help?"
I was looking out toward the sound, but could only see 3 people in the ocean.
Shawn said, "Stay here and watch the stuff."
I didn't obey. I followed him down to the beach ready to do CPR if I needed to.
There was probably about 20 people along the shore by this time and about 7 people in the water. The 3 original people yelling for help were in the water caught in a rip current. The wind was really blowing by this time and the waves were the biggest we'd seen since we got here.
Finally, the 2 women and the men were able to get out with the help of their volunteer rescuers. It was scary for a minute. I am thankful that no one was hurt.
We finished our meal and went back to our room. We rented a movie because there are free movie rentals at the hotel. We saw "The Vow." This got me in a very thankful for my blessings and I really miss my kids even more mood.
After the movie was over, I went to the bathroom and cried because I didn't want to upset Shawn and ruin the vacation. My heart was missing them badly. I have missed each one of them individually at some point or another on this trip, but at this particular moment, I was crying for my Owen.
So, I have been telling myself this entire vacation that, "The kids will be fine. They are having there own adventure."
My sister called at 10:00 pm and told me that Owen was missing us and cried twice. We skyped with them for a good 30 minutes. That made my heart feel better. To hear my daughter say, "My Momma. My Daddy." To see their smiling faces. To hear that Owen was writing a message and say that he missed us, loved us, and that we were the best parents. To see that Liam had on his sister's Mickey Mouse pajamas. To see Aiden's hair cut the way he likes it.
I love you. Each and every one of my kids.
Then we left and went to Topsail Hill Preserve. We hiked about a mile to the beach. We walked along the beach for a while and then Shawn decided to go in. I went in with him.
The water is so clear here, that it is easier for me to go out farther. If anything is coming at you, you are going to see it.
I told him that it is amazing that the water is so clear. It has to be dirty. Just think of the amount of whale poop in it, not to mention spit. It is not good to get seawater in your mouth.
We ate lunch at Panera Bread. It was SO good. I had chicken tortilla soup and a half turkey sandwich. Shawn ordered a blueberry scone, so I ate half of it also.
Then we headed back to the hotel and went swimming again. We had bought an umbrella and a boogy board. The waves were getting bigger, so we were beat by the time we were done swimming. Then we lazily, laid on the beach under our umbrella. It was very nice and beautiful.
I told Shawn that I missed the kids.
We then went up to shower and ordered pizza delivery. We took the pizza down to the deck behind the hotel. We were enjoying our meal when I started hearing, "Help. Help. HELP!" My first thought was, "Is someone messing arround or does someone REALLY need help?"
I was looking out toward the sound, but could only see 3 people in the ocean.
Shawn said, "Stay here and watch the stuff."
I didn't obey. I followed him down to the beach ready to do CPR if I needed to.
There was probably about 20 people along the shore by this time and about 7 people in the water. The 3 original people yelling for help were in the water caught in a rip current. The wind was really blowing by this time and the waves were the biggest we'd seen since we got here.
Finally, the 2 women and the men were able to get out with the help of their volunteer rescuers. It was scary for a minute. I am thankful that no one was hurt.
We finished our meal and went back to our room. We rented a movie because there are free movie rentals at the hotel. We saw "The Vow." This got me in a very thankful for my blessings and I really miss my kids even more mood.
After the movie was over, I went to the bathroom and cried because I didn't want to upset Shawn and ruin the vacation. My heart was missing them badly. I have missed each one of them individually at some point or another on this trip, but at this particular moment, I was crying for my Owen.
So, I have been telling myself this entire vacation that, "The kids will be fine. They are having there own adventure."
My sister called at 10:00 pm and told me that Owen was missing us and cried twice. We skyped with them for a good 30 minutes. That made my heart feel better. To hear my daughter say, "My Momma. My Daddy." To see their smiling faces. To hear that Owen was writing a message and say that he missed us, loved us, and that we were the best parents. To see that Liam had on his sister's Mickey Mouse pajamas. To see Aiden's hair cut the way he likes it.
I love you. Each and every one of my kids.
Vacation Day 4 - Arriving at the Beach, Destin, FL
Before we arrived in Destin, Fl (state 10), Shawn decided that would be our final destination. He needed some days to relax and not drive or be rushed.
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| Shawn in front of the Ocean at Henderson Beach |
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| Pompano Joe's |
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| Someone asked us to take their picture, so we had them take ours |
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| Me walking along the beach not knowing Shawn took the picture. |
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| Shawn's Postcard Shot |
Vacation Day 3 - Laurel Falls and Smoky Mountains
The following is a picture of our 1970's hotel before we left in that morning. We were in Gatlinburg, TN. Tennessee was state number 6.
The following is the sweet treats that Cindy sent with us from their local bakery. I am so glad she sent these because Shawn told me that he didn't want to eat at the hotel. They sent up donuts and coffee, but he didn't want a donut. I tried the brownie that Cindy sent and one bite of the cupcake. I didn't want to overdo it before breakfast. We then left for Laurel Falls. Then Shawn decided that he didn't want to eat breakfast. So, I proceeded to throw a fit because I didn't get my coffee, nor was I full. And yes, this fit lasted off and on for 2 days. Don't mess with my breakfast or my coffee. AND don't tell me when I've had enough to eat. Yes, I act like a 2 year old sometimes.
The following pictures were taken walking on the trail to Laurel Falls.
The following is a picture of a tree with roots that have followed the water and basically grown up and out or between the rock. Shawn said that I like to take pictures of things that have overcome adversity.
This is one picture to prove that Shawn was on this trip, too.
This is a picture of tree roots that had grown into the paved path.
Psalm 1:3
He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,
Which yields its fruit in its season
And its leaf does not wither;
And in whatever he does, he prospers.
The following roots looked like they too had to overcome adversity. This particular root system made me think of the above Bible verse.
The above are what we came here to see: Laurel Falls. It was a 1.3 mile hike to the falls (so 2.6 roundtrip). We had to be a little adventurous to get this picture. We had to climb down the rocks that were off the beaten path. Sometimes it is so freeing to be a little adventurous.
Seeing the falls made me think of God.
It was really cold down below the falls. There were rocks and trees all around. It was like being in the air conditioning. The water was F-R-E-E-Z-I-N-G that was coming down from the top. My heart was filled with joy.
After we stopped at the falls, we took the a road called Newfound something or other road. On the middle of the stretch of road there is a stopping point where you can overlook valleys on both sides of the road.
You cross over into North Carolina at this point. North Carolina is state 7.
We really enjoyed stopping on this side of the Smoky Mountains. It is on a Cherokee Indian reservation and we appreciated stopping and eating here. I had an Indian Taco. It was REALLY good.
The following is the sweet treats that Cindy sent with us from their local bakery. I am so glad she sent these because Shawn told me that he didn't want to eat at the hotel. They sent up donuts and coffee, but he didn't want a donut. I tried the brownie that Cindy sent and one bite of the cupcake. I didn't want to overdo it before breakfast. We then left for Laurel Falls. Then Shawn decided that he didn't want to eat breakfast. So, I proceeded to throw a fit because I didn't get my coffee, nor was I full. And yes, this fit lasted off and on for 2 days. Don't mess with my breakfast or my coffee. AND don't tell me when I've had enough to eat. Yes, I act like a 2 year old sometimes.
The following pictures were taken walking on the trail to Laurel Falls.
The following is a picture of a tree with roots that have followed the water and basically grown up and out or between the rock. Shawn said that I like to take pictures of things that have overcome adversity.
This is one picture to prove that Shawn was on this trip, too.
This is a picture of tree roots that had grown into the paved path.
Psalm 1:3
He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,
Which yields its fruit in its season
And its leaf does not wither;
And in whatever he does, he prospers.
The following roots looked like they too had to overcome adversity. This particular root system made me think of the above Bible verse.
The above are what we came here to see: Laurel Falls. It was a 1.3 mile hike to the falls (so 2.6 roundtrip). We had to be a little adventurous to get this picture. We had to climb down the rocks that were off the beaten path. Sometimes it is so freeing to be a little adventurous.
Seeing the falls made me think of God.
It was really cold down below the falls. There were rocks and trees all around. It was like being in the air conditioning. The water was F-R-E-E-Z-I-N-G that was coming down from the top. My heart was filled with joy.
After we stopped at the falls, we took the a road called Newfound something or other road. On the middle of the stretch of road there is a stopping point where you can overlook valleys on both sides of the road.
You cross over into North Carolina at this point. North Carolina is state 7.
We really enjoyed stopping on this side of the Smoky Mountains. It is on a Cherokee Indian reservation and we appreciated stopping and eating here. I had an Indian Taco. It was REALLY good.
We headed south again. Shawn decided that he wanted to drive into Alabama and see a movie that night. We ended up going through Georgia (state 8) and ended up in Auburn, Alabama (state 9). We watched "Dark Shadows" and I had popcorn, M&M's and Diet Coke for supper.
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