Merry Christmas

I didn't get Christmas cards out this year and I feel bad about it. I have talked myself into doing one of those "letters" after the New Year and I am going to pretend that it was my plan all along! I didn't really run out of time, I had it. But when given the choice of cutting out paper snowflakes with my kids, or going to the North Pole of Texas with the family or spending time Christmas caroling (no matter how off key it was) with the teenagers at church, I decided the cards could wait...and wait....and wait. Then, I enlisted the help of Savannah. I signed 80 cards and Savannah practiced her cursive writing by writing the names of the recipient on each card. We got 80 cards done and we were only at the letter H. Whew! I was pretty much out of time to utilize the church post office so I reluctantly set aside the cards and pretended they would get done when they got done. And guess what? They never were completed. Funny how that happens.

So here's the plan....Hopefully in a few days, while I am in the beautiful state of Colorado, someone will snap a cute picture of my family all bundled up. Then I will make some great looking stationary with it and write a letter telling you all the little known details of our lives in 2010. Good enough??? I hope so...cause it's 11:14pm on Christmas day and the mail doesn't run tomorrow!

Truthfully, I haven't ever enjoyed a Christmas season the way I have this one. I felt more prepared (though not perfectly) and less stressed. There were only 3 days of the entire month of December that were crazy...that's better than normal everyday life around here! I am overwhelmingly grateful for the gentle reminders of the reason for the season these past few weeks. The opportunities that I was given to share the nativity story with my kids was something that I had prayed would happen. From cutting out the nativity from white copy paper to dressing up like the characters from Luke 2, the kids gave me a childlike perspective of the Christmas story. What a special time that was!

So now (11:26pm) with just a half an hour or so left before the official day of Christmas begins, I'm hoping my bloggy friends and family experience that same peace that came down over 2000 years ago....because if we there was ever a time we needed it, it's now.

Merry Christmas!

On Giving

Today I met a friend at the park and we enjoyed some chillin' conversation while our kids played for a couple of hours. Then we were met with a proposition from the church staff ...to deliver Christmas cards to the shut ins that were unable to pick up their cards from the church Christmas card post office. After dropping of a few of the kids, we piled the rest of them into the car and headed out to drop off the cards.

Before the third drop was made, the kids had already received candy from one of the recipients. The homebound engaged in conversation with the kids and welcomed the cards. You could tell it was a day brightener! It was so nice to see them smile as they opened the door to the kids and welcomed the cards.

It really doesn't take a lot to make someone's day. Many times I get so caught up in my own life and stuff that I don't make time to think about the things others might need outside my family. Something as little as delivering the cards to the shut-ins reminded me that even little thoughtful acts can brighten the life of someone who rarely is able to get out in public.

This has been a consuming thought in my mind recently. Being in ministry the last 17 years, people might get the idea that serving happily comes with the job. Contrary to that thought is the obvious truth that just because you perform a task doesn't mean it is done with an attitude of Christ. If I do a task with a poor attitude does it really count for Christ? Sure, God uses us in spite of ourselves sometimes, but how much more could really be done for the kingdom of God if our service was done with a cheerful, encouraging, smiling, joyful, servitude attitude? I wonder.

I was thinking about this as we drove around town, searching for houses, singing Christmas carols, enjoying the company of friends. God gives us these wonderful opportunities to share in His service and we rarely take the opportunity to jump in and enjoy them. Long faces, obligatory service and bad attitudes should take a back seat to the wonderful experience that serving God is. To see the smiles on the faces of those we took cards to was reward in itself for doing something that gained me nothing....or did it????

2010 Review

Sure, the year isn't over yet....but with 10 days left on the calendar and 6 of them being spent away from home, I think it is safe to go ahead and wrap up a few dangling thoughts while I am not sleep deprived.

Many things happened this year that impacted my life personally and our family life. God's presence continues to be apparent in every little aspect. I've been trying to pay better attention and hope to do an even better job of pointing the praise in His direction for the little things as well as the big ones.

Some highlights of 2010:

1. I realized how powerful words can be when I let the words of a perfect stranger totally defeat my weight loss goals...and I never got back on track because obviously I wasn't looking toward JESUS to meet this goal. UGH.

2. We took a huge step of faith regarding a career move for me. Now instead of writing press releases, I'm teaching 4 year olds how to write their ABC's.

3. I met my niece for the first time in March. She will turn 1 on Christmas Day. She's stolen the hearts of many.

4. God blessed us with the sale of our house in Gunter.

5. Savannah made us so very proud when she won a very special award in AWANA at the end of the year program last spring.

6. Tucker had a mouthful of dental work done....and now his smile is perfect!

7. We vacationed at Beaver's Bend in OK....and it was beautiful and wonderful.

8. Mom and Pops visited two times...once in the summer and then again at Thanksgiving. We loved having them.

9. We buried a friend.

10. We stepped in to work with the youth at church.

11. Savannah began piano lessons.

God's been faithful...through the good, the bad and the ugly. He's constant, stedfast and sure. In the midst of grief and hurt and moments of complete happiness, I am thankful for the beauty of his holiness, omniscience and grace. I am blessed.

Where Love Grows

Aren't there moments in parenting that you don't know how it happens but you feel your love grow for your kids? I think I love them as much as I possibly can...and then they go and do something that is so sweet, adorable, loving, kind...and I feel my heart expanding with room for just a little more love.

I guess it's a little like finding out your expecting baby #2 and wondering..."Can I love another child as much as I love Baby #1"....and 9 months later you realize....YES!!! There's room.

With the break in school and a few days of chillin behind and ahead of us, I am thankful for the opportunities to watch my kids in action....playing, cooking with me, running errands, cuddling on the couch and whatever else. When we talk and look at each other eye to eye, I swell up and yes, sometimes even tear up thinking of the wonderful gifts God has given us in these two.

Thanks God!

Smile!

Christmas 2010

Savannah and Tucker

BREAKING news

Hello Christmas Break,

I have been looking forward to your arrival for several weeks now. Seems I began getting impatient for you to get here about 10 days ago....probably about the same time as my kids began whining every morning before school . My usually happy children began the "I don't wanna go to school" chorus every morning at 7:00am and that's when I started wishing time would fly....or perhaps it was when the stomach virus hit our home. UGH.

Then a few days ago when I started getting irritated with little things I decided it must be because I was ready for you to arrive. And then when my house became the resting place for a hurricane I lost all control and cried for you. See, I really love you!

I'm looking forward to all you are bringing me. A clean house, smells of sweets baking, sounds of children laughing and playing and music to commemorate the season, tastes of fudge and chocolate dipped pretzels. Caroling, wrapping presents and celebrating Christ's birth and a trip to CO with 50 or so friends. You're being generous this year. Thank you!

I'll be a mess when you have to leave. January 4 will come way too soon. But thankfully this break will help erase exhaustion and replace it with renewed energy.

So...welcome. Please do not feel any need to hurry. Rest on my home.

Love,
Me

Sick...sort of

Sometimes it's a smell in the air that reminds you of a special someone or someplace. Sometimes it's a song. Sometimes it's the way someone looks or laughs or their mannerisms that makes you homesick for that special someone who is far away or passed away or gone away.

For over twenty years I have technically made my residence in a different state than my parents....so how come some of the simplest things...especially at the holidays bring back the flood of memories that make "home" so sweet and living far away so bittersweet. I was wrapping gifts today and it hit me quicker than a pitch from the winning World Series pitcher (what was his name anyway???) Wrapping and packing the gifts in the shipping box just reminded me that the 800 miles that separate me from family. And those miles today seem like a million.

And I can't even think about how selfish I am to even be thinking these thoughts....when I think of all my missionaries friends and the thousands of miles that come between them and their loved ones....shame.on.me. But still.

So today....a little homesick....and tomorrow...I'll be better. Until then...

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Christmas Programs

Christmas Parties

Christmas Crafts

Christmas Decorations

Christmas Foods

Christmas Cider

Christmas Baking

Christmas Caroling

Christmas Shopping

Christmas Packages

Christmas Stockings

Christmas Services

Christmas Traveling

....yes, these things keep me busy...but it is the Christmas Miracle...the revelation of a Christmas promised that keeps me focused.  Thank you God for your indescribable gift of Jesus!

I never anticipated this!!!!

Sitting at McDonald's the other day with a fellow teacher/friend and our kiddos, I yell to Savannah, as she is going for a refill of her drink.....

No mixed drinks!!!!!

Nope....didn't anticipate that I'd be saying those words for a few more years at least! Seems my kids have discovered the pleasure of mixing sprite with orange drink, coke with DP and just about any other concoction you can think of....also seems those combination give my kids a tummy ache....thus....NO MIXED DRINKS!

HAHA....well, it was good for a laugh!

Thankful Thursday

Today I am thankful for:

1. A special time with friends that leaves me feeling sore from laughing, renewed from encouragement and full from good food.

2. A fun day at school with my class....silly sock day and hat day have been memory making days for us all.

3. My God who is always surprising me by the special things He does.

4. The change of weather....warm to cold.

5. My kid's health. They've been sick this week. But I am reminded that this doesn't happen very often and that things could be worse. Thankful too for the time we've had to cuddle and read.

What are you thankful for this week?

Sick X 2

Well....so much for the kids participating in their church Christmas programs. Saturday night Tucker started running a crazy high fever and last night...Savannah. Poor things...their rosey red cheeks nearly glowed in the dark like Rudolph's nose. But...as bad as it is when they are sick, I wouldn't trade the extra snuggle time on the couch, the quiet hush that comes over the house while they sleep or the sweet way they murmur "Mommy" when they need something.

I wonder if that isn't a little how the Lord feels about His children. We've got the slime and sickness of sin all over us...making us ill and unable to care for ourselves. Yet, when we murmur the sweet name of Jesus...He's there- quicker than I could ever get to my own kids. Ready to wipe the tears, soothe the pain, clean us up and make us new and clean and whole. I am so thankful!!!

SPLURGE!

I rarely splurge on anything. I am a tight wad, bargain shopping, sometimes coupon clipping, clearance shopping, deal searching, second hand and garage sale perusing momma. But, sometimes a girl's gotta splurge....or support her husbands need to splurge!

Here's how it went down.

Bruce makes an annual QVC Shopping Network purchase. It happens every year about this time. He doesn't set out to do it, it's not on the calendar....it just happens. He will be watching late night TV and channel surf to QVC and there will be some remarkable Today's Special Value and because they are normally sold out by the time he gets around to watching it....I'm safe. There was the exception of Henrietta Hen (I wonder why this little treasure wasn't sold out at 10pm????) but for the most part I've been safe from these late night purchases. But.....last week was different.

We were sitting in the living room when Bruce stops on QVC. The convo went a little like this:

BRUCE: See that?
ME: What....the Keurig?
BRUCE: Yes....what do you think about it?
ME: I think we don't drink coffee.
BRUCE: I'm thinking I might get into coffee?
ME: Like golf or running?
BRUCE: No, I think I might really like it.
ME: Don't you think you would know by now? Is this a midlife crisis?
BRUCE: Do you remember our QVC account #?
ME: I've never ordered from QVC
BRUCE: Hello, Customer Service....this is Bruce Stinson, I'd like to order Today's Special Value....on 5 Easy payments of .......

There you have it. UPS delivered our little box of midlife crisis to the door yesterday...along with 48 of its finest flavors. I sampled one today...and boy was it yummy. Who knows....maybe we are growing up after all! This is one QVC purchase I won't be complaining about!

Christmas Is....

I was thinking of all the things Christmas means at our house and decided that there's really no one answer that is completely right...except of course JESUS. But, if your house is anything like mine Christmas includes lots of different things...here are a few of our favorite Christmas things:

1. Driving around looking at Christmas lights many times throughout the holidays.

2. Multiple manger scenes throughout the house that the kids can play with (a little side note that some manger scenes may have characters added to the scene...such as cowboys, Santa, stuffed snowman, John Deere tractors and fire trucks)

3. Decorating the family and fancy tree.

4. Christmas programs at church.

5. Christmas photo.

6. Elf on the Shelf.

7. Reading the Christmas story on Christmas Eve.

8. Making and setting out reindeer food on Christmas Eve.

9. Christmas baking for neighbors and friends.

10. Taking the kids to shop for each other.

11. Hallmark Christmas movies.

12. Letters to Santa.

13. Checking the mail for Christmas Cards and packages.

14. Adopting a family or child to buy for.

15. Sorting packages on Christmas Eve.

The list could go on and on. These things that make our Christmas season special are creating memories for our family.

How about your family? What's something special you do during the holidays to make it special?

Marathon Shopping Lessons

Yesterday Bruce and I escaped to do a marathon shopping trip in and around Dallas. 15 hours later we landed back home. Here are a few things I learned while away:

1. There are still nice, helpful and even over accommodating sales people out there. The elderly lady in the jewelry department at Macy's at Firewheel is the bomb.

2. Burger King is no longer selling their cheesy tots....this saddens me.

3. Some people feel that it is perfectly acceptable to parade through previously mentioned mall in their workout clothes. Respectfully might I submit that some people should not.

4. Wrapping paper is expensive.

5. When Bruce is ready to leave a store he stalks me. You know how it is....husband is ready to go so he follows close behind you and will like everything you show him if it means you are headed to the register to pay.

6. It's ok to pipe music in over loud speakers that has Jesus' name in it during this time of the year.

7. Garden Ridge Pottery is not just for pottery. Where else can you go pick out a Christmas tree, long underwear, luggage, movies, mattresses and pottery?

8. We need a GPS.

9. Cyber Monday is a great day to go shopping....no one is at the stores!

10. There is never enough time when it comes to shopping.

Dear Preschoolers

Dear Preschool Class,

Tomorrow Ms. Gina will be gone. Don't worry. I am not sick. I am not tired. You see, sometimes life calls for a little adventure. Usually Ms. Gina's adventure begins around 11pm Thanksgiving evening and ends around 6pm the day after Thanksgiving. This year, however, I could not go on my adventure. So, as the calendar would have it and the preschool rules allow it, I am skipping school to bask in the bliss of retail therapy. A teacher has to do what a teacher has to do....and so I must go on this adventure.

You will not be far from my thoughts....when I see big puffy skirts...I will think of you. When I need to go to have a morning snack I will think of you. When I see silly bands....I will think of you. When I see Texas Tech paraphernalia I will think of you. When I run in a store instead of walk....I will think of you. When I hear Christmas music...I will think of you.

So....I will hope that you will think of me too....and remember our classroom rules for the sub, and help her...and use your inside voices....and sit still and quiet during L and L time (Listen and Learn)....and be kind to each other...and "get what you get and don't throw a fit".

And when I return to class on Tuesday....after a long marathon shopping day I hope to hear of a sparkling report as to how my angelic class made it through their first day without me. Come on class! You can do it!

Love,
Ms. Gina

A Quick Christmas Craft

This morning I was browsing a few of my favorite creative blogs and I came across the paper banners that I sooooo love. I thought to my self, "Self, you can do this." So, I rummaged through my house, managed to get my finicky printer to work and presto...within 30 minutes had this:

Here's a close up (with all the imperfections) of one of the letters:

This is what I did: 

1. Print out letters (I was out of black ink....thus the rainbow of colors...but I kinda like it). I used a 650 size font and Bastia font. Use whatever you like. Cut out the letters. I left a small (uneven) white border.

2. I had a 12X12 pack of scrapbook cardstock that had 1 single hole punched at the top. I cut a random triangle and used it as a pattern for the 4 others that I needed. I made sure the hole punch was in the center of the top of the triangle. Glue the letters to the cardstock triangles.

3. Thread string, yarn, rope or whatever you like through the holes of your triangled letters. Be sure you put them in the right order. This might take longer if you allow your children to assist in the ordering of the letters ....just sayin'.

4. Space letters evenly and tie to nail or other surface. I had left over fabric from a rag garland I made last year and threaded it thru the hole punch for dimension and to add a little sturdiness. 

You could give it lots more embellishment if you like fancy smancy. I'm more simple primitive so this is it for me. 

Let me know if you try it. I'd love to see what you come up with!

My Christmas Wish List

Here's a few things I'm wishin' for this Christmas season:

1. Plenty of time to spend thinking about and teaching my kids more about the real spirit of Christmas...Jesus and His amazing birth!

2. Time to snuggle up and watch a few good Hallmark Christmas movies....you know...the ones that Bruce won't admit he watches with me :)

3. I want to find those perfect gifts for the special people on my list.

4. A house ready to receive guests.

5. To go Christmas caroling with friends.

6. To bake Christmas goodies for my neighbors.

7. To get packed for the after Christmas ski trip before the week of Christmas...so I can enjoy the days leading up to our Christmas celebration.

8. I'd like to leave my school classroom in tip top condition so I am prepared before we start the new year.

9. I'd love to wrap pretty packages this year.

10. Do something for someone who cannot do anything in return.

I'm sure there are many other things on my wish list..but for now I'll work on these.

What are you wishin' for this Christmas season?

Day 25 of 25 Days of Thanks

It's hard to believe that 25 days ago we started this journey of thanksgiving. Now, here we are at Thanksgiving and there still so much I could write about to tell you I am thankful for. Isn't that just like God? Always piling on more blessings so that we can easily "rejoice evermore". I'm listing some things here that I haven't written posts on throughout this month but I am sincerely thankful for:

1. Living in a town with Wal-mart. This is the first time in 14 years that I've lived in the same town as the store. Formerly I've had to drive 25+ miles to support the Waltons. I gripe a lot about going there...but I'd rather have it than not...so for that convenience, I'm thankful.

2. People that pray for me. I know they're out there...sometimes they tell me they are praying and other times I can feel the presence of prayer working in my life and I just know someone is praying. This is very special to me.

3. I'm thankful for Savannah's piano teacher. Mr. Loren has the patience of Job and the ability to tune out lots of bad notes! But, nevertheless, Savannah has a deep love of music and he is helping to cultivate that.

4. I am thankful for terrific youth leaders at church who listen to kids when they are hurting, support each other through life altering circumstances and who have hearts as big as the world. They're awesome!

5. I'm thankful for God's complete forgiveness. I experienced it on the day of salvation...and everyday since.

6. I am thankful for the gift of music...how a song can lift my spirit, cause me to worship, deliver me from a bad attitude, get me to dancin' and start my toes a tappin'. Lately I've needed good music when the words haven't been there for me to speak. Good thing God understands the music of my heart!

There are many more that I could list, which indicates the abundance of God. He's working in our midst. We just have to slow down long  enough to hear and see.

If you've participated in the 25 Days of Thanks....Thank you! It's been such an encouragement to read your facebook status', blog entries and emails. Like me, I know  many of you have been motivated to live a more intentional life of gratitude. I'm looking forward to hearing from you regarding more wonderful things going on in your life.

Day 24 of 25 Days of Thanks

Today I am thankful for today. So many times I imagine what a day will be like and it turns out nothing like I had anticipated. But today was exactly right. Bruce and Tucker headed to the church before 7am to put up Christmas decorations for this weekend. I stayed up and piddled. Mom got up and we sat and ate homemade banana bread and drank coffee and diet coke. The the guys went fishing midmorning and us girls baked in the kitchen and visited all afternoon. I made a taco salad for dinner,the guys cleaned the fish and the kids got bathed and played games.

It was a crazy good day....one that was exactly like I had hoped it would be...filled with lots of being together and laughter.

Thank You God for today!

PS...lest you think the day was perfect...I failed to mentioned that Tucker had a 3 hour nap that made him more bearable, he used his new TV tray as a shield while playing war with Savannah...and for more of his defense in war, he mooned her....and no, I couldn't even make up anything close to this...it's all truth!

Day 23 of 25 Days of Thanks

Siblings....gotta love 'em. With a brother and a sister I have plenty of stories of passing the buck, the blame and the peanuts. Being the oldest I can now say, years later albeit, that yes, sometimes the oldest does think of it, the middle child does it and the youngest does get blamed for it....and sometimes the plan works...and sometimes it doesn't! 

I'm thankful for my brother, Andy. He's strong, perseveres, smart, loving, a good daddy, a godly husband and an incredible musician. He's been a help to those who couldn't help themselves and he loves his family. I am so glad God gave us each other!

My sister Amy has one of the most generous hearts ever. Just yesterday she sent me flowers for my Thanksgiving table and recently randomly sent my kids care packages...which of course they thought was the coolest thing ever! She's a survivor, resiliant, hardworking, a great cook, strong-willed. From the time we were little she called us "best buddies"...which I loved. When my kids now call each other that it reminds me of great memories with her.

In the last 5 years I've gained a sister in law, Jan, who became a mommy last Christmas Day. She is a wonderful helper to Andy. She makes the best pimento cheese ever and writes beautiful devotions on her blog. She's the perfect wife for my brother and I am so glad God planned for her to join our family.

Bruce's sister, Debbie, hated me the first time we met. She ran out the back door. Now over 17 years later, we're good friends. It might have something to do with the fact that I've birthed her two favorite people into the world but whatever....I'll take what I can get:) I'm thankful for her help, her newly developed bargain shopping skills and the way she helps with Bruce's parents. 

Last year, God added Jennie, Nate, Charlie and Stacie to my sibling group. When mom married Pop, I gained a wonderfully fun group of siblings. The miles separate us but every time I go home we get to see each other. The laughter rolls as we gather around the table. I'm looking forward to many years getting to know them better. I'm thankful for that our parents met and that God planned all along for us to know each other. I'm glad God doubled the family!

Day 22 of 25 Days of Thanks

I'm thankful for the smell of coffee. For close friends and family you know that this is NOT because I drink it. Instead, it's a definite indicator that friends or family are over. To be specific this week....it's my mom and Pop. I have been looking forward to this visit for almost six months. It's the first Thanksgiving in 5 years we will have spent together and I am soooo looking forward to baking and visiting and loving on them! They're major coffee drinkers and I know before they come through the door after the long 12 hour drive I better have a pot of Joe on or I'm in big trouble. 

Today...I'm thankful for a the smell of a good strong cup of coffee. 

Day 21 of 25 Days of Thanks

I first discovered my love for laughter shortly after my daughter was born. She spent the first 90 days in the NICU and during that time experienced many firsts....and one of those firsts was her first little laugh....which produced a roll of laughter from me. I caught it on film and still chuckle every time I see that smile.

Since then, the addition of my son has increased the laughter volume in our home. He's a little comedian himself and desires an audience regularly. I willingly oblige. From his silly faces to his sincere desire to tell a joke and make everyone laugh, Tucker keeps us in stitches.

And do I even need to talk about my husband.....I mean really! Although half the time he doesn't know he is funny, our family and friends get regular comic relief.

I have lots of friends that provide me with lots of reasons to laugh....not at them...but with them. It's funny how we can go from laughter to tears back to laughter in just seconds....but that's how it usually happens. 

The Bible tells us a lot about laughter: 

Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief.Proverbs 14:12-14 

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.Proverbs 17:21-23 

I am glad that God tells us in Psalms 30:5 that weeping endures for the night but joy comes in the morning. In Psalm 23 God restores us...and not just a little bit....but until our cup runs over. That's what I call abundant joy! It doesn't surprise me that God is into doing things abundantly...He's anything but average! 


Thanks God....for the gift of laughter!

Day 20 of 25 Days of Thanks

When I set out to be intentionally thankful 20 days ago, never in a million years did I dream that we would be burying a friend halfway through this challenge. I can't believe how conflicted my thoughts have been in the middle of such anguish for a young widow and her 2 girls and unborn baby boy. You can probably understand that while I can personally think of a million things to be thankful for, it seems almost careless and a little insensitive to be offering praises when someone is in the midst of such a storm in life. Yet....that's exactly what God's word tells us to do. I'm reminded of the words to Casting Crowns' song Praise You in the Storm....

I was sure by now,God, that You would have reached down
and wiped our tears away,
stepped in and saved the day.
But once again, I say amen
and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain,
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus:
And I'll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to You
and raised me up again
my strength is almost gone how can I carry on
if I can't find You
and as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away

Chorus

I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth

Chorus 

So today, after a week of roller coaster emotions and lots of tears, I'm thankful we serve a God who we can praise through the storms of life. He's worthy of our praise everyday....the good ones and the bad. He's deserving whether we feel like it or not. He's familiar with our suffering and our grief. He's no stranger to our heartaches....and yet...somehow as we worship Him in the midst of our brokenness, we feel closer to Him, more in love with who He is and more aware of His presence. There is a beauty in brokenness that only comes from enduring the storms of this life. 

I'm thankful I can praise Him in the storm.

Day 19 of 25 Days of Thanks

God has a plan. I am thankful that whether I can understand why, what or where that He already has it all figured out. He's never surprised. I am thankful that his plans are higher, wider, deeper, longer, stronger, more purposeful that anything I could ever imagine on my own. When I wonder "why?", He's got the answer. When I struggle to be content, He's everything I need. When the road is long...he's there to keep me company. His plan is good...it's perfect and it's exactly what I hunger for.

Day 18 of 25 Days of Thanks

People who go the extra mile deserve an award. This world is full of mediocre, average, predictable men and women who help us determine what the 50% line should be in the scheme of things. But....every once in a while some shining star pops out and really makes you believe in the human race again.

I've seen these kind of people in action this week and it is such an encouragement to watch. They minister in an all of nothing sort of way...they look for things to do instead of waiting to be asked....they go above and beyond (not in a showy sort of way)....they sacrifice....they go out of their way to make others more comfortable, happy or satisfied. You know when you've encountered one of these precious people because you walk away wanting to be a better individual....I know I do.

Thank God for people who go the extra mile.

Day 17 of 25 Days of Thanks

Heaven. I'm thankful that in God's amazing outpouring of love for us, He gives us heaven. In the midst of grief, heaven provides peace and hope. When death stings, heaven soothes the soul. When tears fall, heaven raises a hand to wipe them away.

Why would God create such a wonderful place of no pain, sorrow, sadness, sickness of the soul or depravity of man? To give us hope, peace, comfort in our sorrow and a beautiful reminder that this world is just the preface to eternity.

Thank God for heaven.


PS. For those not in my CBC family who might read this.....

Please remember the Baier family in your prayers. Bryan, age 30, went home to be with Jesus today after  recently being diagnosed with cancer. He leaves parents, a wife, 2 girls and a baby boy on the way in March. He also leaves a student ministry where he has served as a lay leader for years, a church family and friends who love him. Thanks for your prayers.

Day 16 of 25 Days of Thanks

Good books have been my friends for a very long time. I remember browsing in our church library when I wasn't even old enough to check out a book alone. I remember our small public library in Lithonia, GA, where you could go for reading circle time in the summer. My first trip to Barnes and Noble....heavenly!

I remember my first boxed set of books....Little House on the Prairie. Then came Anne of Green Gables and Nancy Drew. As I grew older Janette Oke and Gilbert Morris books lined my small bookcase. Missionary biographies and historical fiction fascinated me and I grew to love the characters...fictional and real in each book.

As I have grown older, so has my taste in books. In fact, on New Years Day for the last 10 years or so I have spent my morning in the bookstore, gathering and browsing through books that peak my interest. It's a springboard to reaching my New Year's Goals....thus the large library of cookbooks, decorating books, non-profit texts, current religious topics and child rearing/family issues.

I'm thankful people that are smarter and more studied than I am take the time to jot down their thoughts, stories and dreams. It's reassuring to hear someone has already been there...done that. It's motivating to hear exciting stories of someone who is spending their life doing something adventurous or eternal. Escaping to dangerous mission fields or back to the colonial period allows my mind to wonder about what it would be like to be there in the present.

So whether curled up on a cold December day, waiting in the car, taking a long road trip or soothing my soul....books have a way of sneaking into most everyday of my life. I'm thankful for the knowledge, the entertainment, the adventure and the ideas.

Day 15 of 25 Days of Thanks

I remember my first grade Sunday School teacher: Sadie Harper. She was a wonderful older lady with orange hair who loved kids and probably had been teaching Sunday School since the beginning of time. I remember where the class met and if I close my eyes and take a deep breath I can remember the slightly musty smell of the carpet. I remember the flannel graph stories, snacks she would bring and stickered attendance charts. She made quite an impression on me.

Around the 5-6 grade Nell Cook became my Sunday School teacher. She let me help do the bulletin boards in our class, taught us about modesty and even hosted a slumber party at her house once. She was a dear friend of my mom's so I saw her outside of the classroom a lot. One thing that impressed me even then, was how busy she was with her own family, yet she made time to invest in the lives of adolescent girls.

In junior high and senior high, like most churches, we had our share of youth directors in and out. Mostly I remember Dale and Cheryl Butler who were lay people who were looking to serve the Lord full time when He opened the door. I had never been around someone so funny and so sold out. He was a shoot straight kind of guy and when he spoke...we listened.

I guess I am writing all this to say how thankful I am for faithful Sunday School teachers for my own kids now. I don't think that we as parents ever give them quite the credit they deserve. I trust when I send Savannah and Tucker to their classes on Sunday mornings that they are getting much of the same love and teaching that I received as a kid. When I think about the impact it made on my own life, I am incredibly thankful that God has placed us in a church where the teachers are prepared and equipped to share God's love with the kids in a way that they understand what they are being taught. I'm glad they are reinforcing the things we are teaching at home.

Thanks to all you Sunday School teachers out there! You're a blessing!

Day 14 of 25 Days of Thanks

This week I've had the opportunity to enjoy the little things in life that I am thankful for:

1. A new wallet....a friend picked up for me. Who knew a little wallet with a bird on it could make me near giddy. It's just about the cutest thing in the world.

2. An empty stove box. I've enjoyed watching my kids turn this square box into an indoor fort this week. They've graffitied the inside and out, eaten their lunch inside, read books and enjoyed their cozy little hideout. It's brought back some great childhood fort memories of my own.

3. Groceries on hand. I cleaned out the kitchen pantry and found there's way more food on hand than I thought. That's a few extra bucks in the pocket this week.

4. A newly learned craft.

5. A night out with the mom friends in my life. Lots of fun, laughter, a few tears and lots of good food.

Thanks for the little things in life God.

Day 13 of 25 Days of Thanks

We are halfway there in our 25 Day of Thanks Campaign! I just want to say what a blessing it is to read all the posts on facebook and the comments from friends regarding what they are thankful for.

Today I am thankful for a Godly heritage. I was one of those kids who was blessed to have been raised in a home where God's Word was taught and lived out by my parents. Sure, they made their mistakes, just like I am, but there was never a moment I questioned how they felt about God, a relationship with Him, our church or how we should treat others. If I do half as good a job as they did, I feel like I will have accomplished something.

I am thankful that they didn't take the easy way out. They really could have cared less what the Jones' were doing. They were unconventional....things like limited TV, no spending money on Sundays, fasting on Wednesdays with our church family, homeschooling (before it was cool :)), volunteering us 3 kids to serve at Senior Citizens luncheons when we were very young, teaching us how to treat those who can do nothing for us, allowing us to work on a bus ministry in one of the roughest suburbs of Atlanta, going to homeless shelters and playing the piano...and the list could go on and on and on.... of the hands on things our family experienced growing up. I remember one time winning a coloring contest at a local grocery store. I was probably 8 or 9. It was Christmas and I remember my mom saying, why don't we donate your prize (a new toy) to a child who won't get anything for Christmas. It was the first time I can remember having to make a decision like that all by myself. She left it up to me...and in presenting me with that option she planted a seed of giving. I caught the lesson that day.

I am thankful they weren't lazy. I'm thankful that they instilled in me God's Word. That it was valued and used as a guidebook for family living. What a heritage they've given me!

Day 12 of 25 Days of Thanks

Mom friends. You know the kind I am talking about. You have your mom. You have your friends. And you have your mom-friends. They're the ones you can talk to about all your mom issues....of course I am going to list a few:

1. Why your child refuses to potty train.
2. Why your body is falling apart after pregnancy.
3. Why a balanced diet has more to do with you juggling a baby bottle, baby and spatula than 1 meat, 2 veggies and a starch.
4. Why you chose a certain pediatrician.
5. Where to find the latest and greatest deals on everything from laundry detergent to Disney movies.

They're the ones who you call when you're overwhelmed, need adult conversation, are worried about something, need a good laugh, the husband is driving you crazy or you've locked yourself out of your car. They don't care that you talk to them while you are in the bathroom. They are probably there too. They don't care that it's late or early or that they have to practically yell so that you can hear them above the roar of children playing in the background. They're soul sisters. Kindred spirits. Your backup. Your emergency contact. Your prayer warrior. They don't care if you have makeup on or a clean house...let alone stain free clothing. In fact....they would much rather you just spend the time catching up over a cold cup of coffee and a burnt grilled cheese sandwich. They will watch your kids, your dog and feed your husband if you are out of town. They will share their secrets, their burdens and their triumphs...and at the end of the day you'll realize your life is fuller, richer and more because of them. I know mine is.

Thanks Mom-friends. Love ya!

Day 11 of 25 Days of Thanks

Teenagers make life interesting. I don't have any yet....but I've had my share of unbiological children come through my door in the last 16 years and there has NEVER been a dull moment.

Currently Bruce and I along with 5 or so other couples have the honor of working with some of the best teenagers ever! They're regular teenagers with their relationship woes, parental complaints and louder-than-this-38-year-old likes music (and I do like mine loud). But as regular as they are I see something wonderful happening in them that is making them anything but ordinary. They are a generation rising.

They serve in our church AWANA program, sing in the choir, help in the nursery, go on visitation, attend church regularly, witness to their friends, invite their friends to church, ask questions about the Bible and sing (that's my favorite). On Friend Day they brought MANY teens to hear about Jesus....and we might not ever know (this side of heaven) what decisions were/will be made as a result of that invitation.

I'm proud of their faithfulness. I'm honored by their trust. I'm in awe of the way they worship. I am motivated by their enthusiasm and most of all I am thankful that for this moment we are privileged to watch them grow.

Day 10 of 25 Days of Thanks

I know in the scheme of things one job is not more important than the next if you are doing what God wants you to do, but, I have a certain fondness and admiration for missionaries to foreign fields. They risk it all...sacrifice comforts, pleasures, English speaking television, personal preferences and abandon it all to go wherever God leads them to tell others about Jesus. It sounds reckless, adventurous and brave. Would I be willing? Would I leave all this behind to go to the other side of the world to tell others about Christ? Would I be willing to let go of all the preferences I have about toilet paper, radio stations and home decor to live in a land where a thatched roof was a luxury and a static AM radio station is all I have. I hope so!

I realize some of our missionaries lead somewhat Americanized lives on foreign soil these days. For those who may live in a large city where modern conveniences abound, I still think about the sacrifice of raising a family half way around the world- away from their own families-  and admire their dedication to the call God has placed on their lives.

They are true heroes in my book. I pray that I would serve with such reckless abandonment here in my own mission field.

Thanks missionaries!

Day 9 of 25 Days of Thanks

Yesterday our new stove was delivered. I am thankful for the opportunity to get to cook again. It's been 2 weeks since I've boiled water, seeped tea or made a pot of rice. It's time.

I switched from a glass top range to a coil top stove...thanks to several friends who gave their advice regarding our recent mishap. It's white, to match the rest of the kitchen appliances. It also came packaged in a sturdy cardboard box...so you can imagine the fun the kids will have with that!

Sometimes I get tired of cooking, but after a couple of weeks of creatively figuring our how to melt caramel chips and a few other stove top dilemmas, I think I will put the complaints on the back burner for now!

Day 8 of 25 Days of Thanks

11 children enter the door of my preschool classroom everyday. Each one of them is unique, special, energetic, beautiful, creative and talkative. Yes...I said it....my class chatters like they will go mute by noon.  Since I have them from 8:30 to 11:30am this presents a problem for them sometimes!!!

I'm thankful for this job. I originally only planned on working 2 days a week...teaching three year olds, then I moved to taking a PreK 3 day a week class, and then at the last minute took the 5 Day PreK class. Most days I feel ill equipped to handle the challenges that come my way....don't get me wrong...I am perfectly capable of teaching reading, writing, numbers and colors. But factor in making sure they know that they are loved by God, unbelievably valued and special...and it gets a little daunting. Some of you might think I take this too seriously, but these are kids and families that I KNOW God has placed in my class and He has a special purpose for these special 11 munchkins that only time will reveal.

I'm thankful for the challenges they present, the diet cokes they bring me, the art pictures they draw to hang on my file cabinet, the things they bring to share with the class, their humor, their quirkiness, their parents and most of all their innocence. I pray that each week I come in prepared...to teach the basics with my curriculum and my life.


Thank you God for my class!

Day 7 of 25 Days of Thanks

Pastors have hard jobs. When I think back to the years Bruce was a senior pastor I KNOW there were hard things he had to do and difficult decisions that he had to make. I think I am even more appreciative of the role now that we aren't in it...because we see the difference.

I'm thankful for a pastor who preaches the Word of God. He's not out there taking requests for things to preach about, or using his position to scold people. He just preaches...the Word of God. He comes to church prepared and ready to speak the words God has laid on his heart. He speaks with confidence, not pride. He is ready with an answer and willing to talk things through so the congregation better understands God's Word. He is a witness in the community. He cares about people. You can't go anywhere that people don't know who he is....and it's not because he's popular....but because he's invested a couple of decades in the community. He visits people....the sick, the elderly, the downhearted, the discouraged, the hospitalized. He works as hard or harder than anyone I know. He's at the church late some nights, visits during his lunch hour, makes appointments for after hours when people will be home to visit. He is one busy man....who loves God and people..and it oozes from him.

I've seen his heart break over wayward Christians, the sickness of a church member and lots of things I couldn't begin to explain. He is human....just like me and you...and he's gonna fail me...just like your pastor will fail you....but He is God's man for our church for this time. Imagine that...this is the man God picked out to lead this group of believers in our community...leading us closer to Christ, our community and one another. He deserves my prayers and support....along the way a word of thanks. Today I am thankful for him, for his supportive wife who has worked along side him and for his faithfulness to God and to God's people. I'm thankful that my family gets to serve with such an example of service and dedication. Thanks Pastor!

Day 6 of 25 Days of Thanks

Air conditioning, heat, running water, cable television, high speed Internet. What do these things have in common? They are all modern conveniences that I am afforded...conveniences that most of the world has never experienced.

So many times I take for granted the advances that make my life easier, more enjoyable or more comfortable. Yet...the minute one of these things malfunctions....I'm whining! These are just a few of the blessings God gives us that we get to enjoy. While most of the world lives in poverty, in less that ideal living conditions....I've found myself enjoying many of the luxuries of the world. It's a privilege to experience everything we have in America.

Day 5 of 25 Days of Thanks

Peace. The word alone makes me feel more calm. I am thankful for peace in the midst of stressful situations - which include but are not limited to going to the Dr, dentist, Walmart and driving through Dallas!

Growing up, my mom reserved one hour a day for us kids to spend alone in our rooms. As a kid I never understood this concept....but boy, do I get it now! After lunch we would head to our rooms for quiet time and she would spend an hour doing something peaceful. I remember her crocheting, listening to "soft hits" on the radio and resting during this time. She quieted herself and our home for a brief hour so that we could all experience the peace that comes from getting quiet.

These days I find myself practicing my own version of one hour peace. After lunch the kids and I set aside some quiet time. I prop my feet up, close my eyes for a moment and rest. They read, color, or play alone quietly. I can't tell you what it does for us except that the fighting factor is down and the blood curling screams have diminished drastically.

Sometimes I find it hard to settle my mind the same way I settle my body. Know what I mean? It can take me half an hour to get settled mentally yet, my feet have been propped up for 30 minutes. I'm learning to realize this unsettledness in me is an opportunity to experience peace. While all the elements are in order for me to enjoy quietness it takes surrendering my concerns, worry, helplessness and pride and embracing PEACE. The PEACE that was left to me by Christ through the Holy Spirit. If you've ever experienced that then you know it's worth the surrender.

There have been plenty of more serious times when I've experienced God's peace in my life. Surrendering my future to the Lord at age 14 was the first time I can remember feeling an undeniable sense of peace, then when I went 1000 miles away from home for college, when I was 18 and my dad passed away, years of waiting to have children, being a pastor's wife for 14 years, birth of my kids, taking care of my mil while she fought cancer, homeschooling, employment and much much more. In fact, I can't even think about one year of my life that HIS peace hasn't been present in a huge way!


So whether you're experiencing a mountaintop experience or a valley view....God's peace is there for the taking....He's left it for us....embrace it today. You'll be thankful!
Thank you for your peace that passes all understanding!

Day 4 of 25 Days of Thanks

There is only one body.....the body of Christ. I've thought one million times about how hard it must be for people who do not belong to the body of Christ to go through tough, desperate or desolate times. The word lonely comes to mind.

I am thankful to be part of the body of Christ. The beautiful earthly depiction of Christ on earth. His hands, His feet, His words, His heart. Could there be anything more glorifying to God than a body that is functioning in perfect tune to His desires? Over the years God has allowed me to be part of a few local churches that have represented the body of Christ well. Whether through benevolence, or taking care of orphans, the sick or the wounded, or celebrating victories together, there is no sweeter time than those spent with the body of Christ.

In a world full of politicians that promote mudslinging and bickering and coaches that yell too much at their players and news reports that are more depressing by the minute, I am blessed and thankful for the beautiful body of believers that pulls together when things are tough, brings a casserole over when someone is sick, picks my kids up when I can't, is a phone call away at 10:30 at night and who loves me,  despite my faults, hangups, or personality (which may vary depending on the amount of sleep I've received), who cries when I cry and laughs when I laugh (ok...yes, sometimes at me).

Thank you God for your church...the beautiful body of Christ.
How 'bout you? What are you thankful for?

Day 3 of 25 Days of Thanks

The power of prayer...I feel like I should stand up and give an old fashion-jump up and shout-gospel church testifying testimony about the prayers God has answered this past year. The yes's, no's and even the not now-wait-answers have all been very clear....when I've been quiet enough to listen. Ouch! That is such a key element to prayer....the getting quiet, shutting up, closing the mouth, settling my mind, opening my ears and hearing what HE has to say.

From the sell of our house....which ended up being a big waiting game and was terribly uncomfortable - to the undeniable green light to quit my work from home job that I loved - to the distinct NO regarding some financial decisions we faced.....God's answered our prayers for wisdom, patience, guidance.

I think sometimes I get in the mindset that because God doesn't answer something the way I want Him to that He's not answering...boy is that wrong thinkin'. He's got my best interest in mind. He wants to bless me. He wants me to trust Him with my future...every second of it....so His way is ALWAYS best...wether it's the way I see things or not.

All that being said....I'm praying especially for the Baier family in our church during the next 24 hours. Please join me as Bryan (husband, 30yo) has super serious surgery on Wed. morning. He has a wife, 2 girls and a baby boy on the way.

Day 2 of 25 Days of Thanks

Today I am thankful for seasons. In Texas we only have 2 seasons usually - summer and not summer. It's one of the things I miss most about my four years of college in Missouri - Distinct changes. Crisp fall mornings, bitter winter nights, melting snow on early spring days and warm...not blistering hot..summer afternoons. That's beautiful weather if you ask me.

But today I am thankful for the different seasons of life God has given me so far.

I'm thankful for the 10 years of married life that Bruce and I had alone. Those were great years that God allowed us to grow closer together, minister to teens, build a church, travel and devote countless late night hours scrapbooking, playing video games, counseling teens and going to ballgames. They were great years....and that is a season of life I will never forget. The people that filled our lives during that time remain in our hearts even today!

I am now thankful for the last 8 years God has given me to be a mother. This season is by far the most rewarding and satisfying so far (I think every mom would agree). I am so very thankful God allowed me to be a mom. I remember those sad feelings every Mother's Day when I was barren. I will probably always have a soft spot in my heart for those who walk in those shoes. My life with Savannah and Tucker is full and although I dreamed of having a large family when I was younger, God knew exactly what we needed when He gave us our two blue eyed kids. So while this season leaves me more tired, doing more laundry, more cooking, more cleaning, more running - it also leaves me feeling more than grateful for these little miracles, that, according to doctors were never suppose to be.


Thank you God for these special seasons of life.....help me cherish every moment.

What are you giving thanks for today?

Day 1 of 25 Days of Thanks

I am thankful for fresh starts, clean slates, new beginnings...anything involving a chance to do better than the last time. I'm thankful for a God who understands my weaknesses and forgives my sins with each fresh new mercy day. When I am grumpy, angry, tired or just plain mean, I am thankful that family and friends are forgiving and love me anyway. In all my inadequacies I am thankful for grace. Grace says "all is forgiven".

25 Days of Thanks Begins Nov 1

Last year I dedicated the month of November as a month of thanks on my blog. I blogged 26 days straight about things for which I was thankful. This year, I'm gearing up for round 2. Want to join in on the fun? Just take a few moments each day of November and post something you're thankful for....it could be anything from food to family to fresh air. I've realized over the years that when I focus on gratitude my heart and soul are way less apt to complain about trivial things. I need a reminder every now and again to stay focused on the goodness of the Lord and give praise to the one who deserves it!

Hope you'll let me know what you're thankful for this month....blog about it, facebook it, journal it....but just do it!

Pippy and the Cowboy

Trick or Treat?

Groanings...

One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Romans 8:26:


In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.

I found this verse right after my dad passed away. I remember sitting in my dorm room at BBC wanting to pray...to really pour my heart out to God...and yet, I was at a loss for words. Someone had written Romans 8:26 on a piece of paper and given it to me and that day when I found it, it was like my ticket to not having all the answers. 


Finding myself in a similarly distraught time in my life, I returned to the verse again in August of 2002 when Savannah was born 13 weeks early - This time in a tiny 8 X 8 waiting room reserved for parents of NICU babies. I tried to pray alone, at her tiny incubator bed, with Bruce, with friends, at church....but my heart never had the right words to say. 


So, last night when Bruce asked me if I knew of a verse he could share with our youth and some of our friends who are going through what seems like the millionth bad news situation...this verse was on the tip of my tongue. 


I am overwhelmingly encouraged to know that I know a God who can interpret the very groanings of my heart. When words don't come easy, His Spirit intercedes and interprets those deep, tender, anxious groanings that our mouths can't seem to utter. That's amazing to me!


So last night as I stood in the yard of one of God's faithful young servants whose family has been turned upside down by illness, I watched and listened as tears and sniffles and quiet prayers and praise songs were uttered and heard by a God who understands the audible and inaudible. As 50 teenagers and youth workers quietly stood in testimony with their dear friend and mentor, possibly experiencing what I've felt in those dark, desolate moments I was reminded that I don't need to know what to say, how to say it or even when....He hears those cries, those moments of incomprehensible pain and anguish. He knows. 

1. 
   

Amish White Bread

Here's the best white sandwich bread you will ever put in your mouth:

Ingredients

• 2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 6 cups bread flour

Directions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water, and then stir in yeast. Allow to proof until yeast resembles a creamy foam.
2. Mix salt and oil into the yeast. Mix in flour one cup at a time. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Place in a well oiled bowl, and turn dough to coat. Cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.
3. Punch dough down. Knead for a few minutes, and divide in half. Shape into loaves, and place into two well oiled 9x5 inch loaf pans. Allow to rise for 30 minutes, or until dough has risen 1 inch above pans.
4. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes.

Enjoy!!!

(Copied from www.allrecipes.com)

Goodness Gracious, Great Balls of Fire- Update

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There's nothing quite like being greeted by your husband with, "The microwave is shooting balls of fire". 

Seems our over the range microwave has bit the dust...but not before adding a little excitement to our household. After several episodes of shorting out, the dearly loved, often used, small household appliance said its final goodbye in a ball of fire on Monday, October 25, 2010. RIP.

Not to be outdone, our glass cooktop also bit the dust. Yes. That's right. In a short span of 3 hours both highly used appliances said their final goodbye to cooking another meal for my family. Remember just a few days ago when I was thanking God that He had given this perfect house to us.....well, I'm still thankful, things could be worse...always!

Funny thing is.....we won't be replacing the stove top anytime soon. We've priced them and it's not a cheap quick fix. We will be getting a microwave today however! There are some things you just can't live without! We're debt free besides the house and 2 more car payments and we have no intention of heading the other direction.....so goodbye cooktop for a bit...and hello microwave, crockpot and griddle....believe me....we will survive!

Thank you God for protecting Bruce as He battled the blaze of microwave fire! 


While I was posting this post yesterday....God had already provided the funds for a new stove. I just didn't know it then. Later in the day when Bruce told me, I was overwhelmed with emotion because of the goodness of God. He is concerned with our every need. He blesses us beyond what we deserve. Thanks to whoever became the hands and feet of Jesus yesterday. God bless you!

Satisfying Saturday

This was one of those weeks that just demanded for a slow paced Saturday.

So when I saw that RAIN was in the forecast for this weekend....I just about did the Happy Dance!!!--- and if you've seen me dance...

Thursday I worked from the moment I got home from teaching. Laundry, Bathrooms, Floors, Dusting....the works. I enlisted the help of my kids...and eventually Bruce so that by days end....the house was spic and span, laundry was just about done and the smell of the weekend was in the air. 

As soon as school let out Friday I took Tucker to the grands and Savannah and I headed to my new home away from home....Scrappy K's. I had spotted a chipboard scrapbook that I wanted to try my hand at a few weeks ago. We spent almost two hours browsing over papers, stamps, chalks, stickers, chipboard, tags, embellishments and so much more. It was fun spending time with Savannah that way. We left with a sack full of goodies and headed home to scrap while the guys were still gone. 

The rest of the evening was spent veggin' with the kids while we watched the Ranger's finish up the ALB championship - that in and of itself is a whole different post. 

Today...Saturday..... has been spent printing pictures for my new scrapbook, playing with the munchkins, baking brownies, catching up on HGTV, blog browsing and cooking dinner....and yes, even though I threw a load or two of laundry in the washer, I still feel like Saturday has been satisfied.

What a great weekend! What's your favorite thing about Saturday?

Thankful Thursday

A few gratitudes from the last week:

1. My home. If you've read back a few days, you already know that we just celebrated our 1 year anniversary of moving into our home. What's so special about that? Well, we spent 3 months in an RV right before the purchase of this home while we were waiting for our home in another town to sell. God provided wonderful renters for our home, and eventually buyers...all while supplying for us to be able to buy the home we are in now. I think we appreciate it much more after our 3 months in the RV!

2. My job. I feel blessed to get to work with some amazing women, teach 11 of the cutest and funniest 4 year olds around and have the opportunity to share Jesus everyday!

3. Motivation. This time of year always gets me motivated to do something new....change the furniture around, try a new recipe, tackle a home improvement project. Getting busy on some of those things today!

4. Comic Relief. My kids have been exceptionally funny lately. Most days I could probably bore you to tears with the details of their humor. It's fun watching them learn to laugh at themselves, tell jokes and figure out that they are seriously funny.

5. Faithfulness. Sometimes it's an encouragement to watch the life of someone else. Sometimes it's not. Recently I've been blessed by the faithfulness of some of God's finest servants. Faithfulness to God is beautiful for so many reasons. One, the example it is to others to watch someone stay faithful during times of trials is so rare in the world today. Rare things have great value. Second, faithful servants speak loudly about a faithful God. You can often see someones real priorities by looking at where they spend their time and what they talk about. I'm thankful for those faithful Christians who invest their time and talents in eternal things.

So, what are you thankful for today?

In the Scheme of Things

I was just thinking about a few of the struggles that have been going on in my life. I was trying to think of solutions, trying to figure out the details, trying to pray about them....and then I started comparing my struggles with the struggles some of my friends are going through and I realized how insignificant my struggles are in the scheme of things. A husband's illness, a child's disease, financial worries, international living decisions, ministry challenges...boy, do my worries pale in comparison.

But then it hit me.....God's not comparing my worries with other's worries. He knows the cares of my heart like the back of His Son's nail pierced hand. He doesn't define my worries as insignificant or irrelevant compared to those around me. He's interested and devoted to taking care of my concerns with the same love, compassion, justice and care as He is the next person. You see, none of these worries are a big problem for a God like mine. He doesn't have a "scheme of things" scale where He devotes more or less energy to one problem or another. He's equally concerned for each of His children, even more so than the best mother for each of her children.

I'm thankful He's able and willing to handle these desperate cries of my heart....no matter how insignificant they might be....from feeling overwhelmed, to parenting concerns, to whether or not I've balanced the checkbook correctly! Yes, in the human scheme of things, some of my concerns seem pitiful, but God looks deeper, into the crevices of my heart and sees the real issues...and knows just how to handle them....in or out of the scheme of things.

Anniversaries

My mom and Pops just celebrated their one year anniversary. Last year this time we had just wrapped up a grand celebration of a wedding. It was so beautiful. Last night I talked with them both and they had a wonderful day reminiscing all the good things this year has brought them. What a special couple!

You might also remember that this time last year we were gearing up for our own special occasion...moving from the RV to our new-to-us home. Gone are the days of running for our lives to get to the RV without getting sprayed by a skunk, hot dogs getting stuck in the microwave and coloring my hair in a small 3 X 5 cell bathroom! Oh how I miss those special times with my family!

Seriously speaking, God was so good to us during our  months in the RV. He taught us so many lessons, we learned so much about each other, and most of all I learned that when you feel completely out of control you are in the best position to hear from God. I am so thankful for all those lessons and for the many humorous events that helped to keep me sane during our time in the RV. (If you haven't read about this inspirational humorous journey, feel free to look at the Aug-Oct 09 archives of this blog).

We are loving our home and all the space it affords us. I'm so thankful God knew just exactly what we needed at just the right time.

So....Happy Anniversary....Mom and Pops....

and to my family for one incredibly blessed year in our home!