Jonah 2

Dusting For Prints....

2012-02-13T07:19:00.000-08:00

I LOVE love this blog title which I cannot take credit for. It is one from the gritandglory.com.

Over the course of my life I seem to have a list of things that have "happened" to me and some consequences of actions.

But I know that HE has been and is in each situation. EACH ONE

Sometimes, we may not see it or feel it but He's there

The hurts, failures, and challenges can be so obvious and loud that they overshadow and drown HIM out. So I need to be intentional to dust for the fingerprints.

Honeslty the loss of a marriage, friends, home, and community has been hard. I am a different person. Stronger, independant, possibly more jaded but with hope.

My heart is in the "I'm recovered, ready to love" mode.

I know there is a reason for all this. I am literally excited and butterflies on the inside at what is next. I feel the readiness as I have been waiting on God's choice. I'm seeing HIS fingerprints.

Make Me Desperate

2012-01-30T09:03:00.000-08:00

Jesus made it very clear that he could percieve a person's real need when he was going around healing and teaching. Even when a person asked for a physical healing. When he greeted the man lowered through the roof on a stretcher, he knew the man needed forgiveness more than he needed to be able to walk. (Mark 2:3-5)

Imagine for a moment that you cannot walk. Either from illness or accident. The desperation that would come with that.

I want to focus on this thought: HE NEEDED FORGIVENESS MORE THAN HE NEEDED TO BE ABLE TO WALK

That is a huge thought to me today!! Don't we all!? I know I do. Thank God he does forgive. Give me that desperation!!!

Thirst

2012-01-25T12:18:00.000-08:00

I was thirsty this afternoon and a little tired. I felt I needed a little pick me up. I went to get a Mt. Dew. I was thinking I was thirsty.

The irony of this as I sip on my Mt. Dew, (I know it is not good for me at all) is my devotion for today was about the woman at the well.

She too was thirsty.

He had her mail already read. She knew it. But instead of the finger pointed she may have been accustomed to, he called her out but in a loving mannner, of course. He startled her with his response. She maybe didn't understand what he was saying all together but was open to what "thirst quenching" He was offering.

Here's some of the questions asked,

Imagine Jesus looking at you right now-what does he see? How do you think Jesus feels about you? (ummm, ouch)
What if anything, keeps you from being totally open with God? What could help you be more honest with him?

Put aside any fears you may feel today as you come in prayer to the one who loves you without conditions. Thank God that he sees you through the cleansing power of Christ's blood, fully forgiven.

More Sugar Coated Poison Apple

2012-01-13T09:24:00.000-08:00

I was revisiting my post from yesterday.

When we look at the scripture that talks about the devil saying "call down your angels, they'll save you." Isn't that kind of what we do? We tend to call out to God in the last possible second. When we are in a hard situation, a trial of some sort.

What I find is intersting is even satan who is allowed access to Heaven, who is fully accustomed to God and his ways....he too took the passage out of context. Or do what he does best and try to twist the scripture so it can seem one way or the other.

It is not like God will always remove or withhold natural consequences of sin or foolish choices. He may at times. I DO NOT want to say that he never curbs some. Honestly, I am not sure how that works. Why He is God and I am not.

But by going back to the scriptures, we reaffirm what GOD says and what he says settles it. We know the Bible can be twisted into half truths and can be used differently than their meaning. However, really look at it and see what God wants us to see there for our time in our life.
God has given us an amazing resource. We should really read it more.

I should really read it more.

Sugar Coated Poison Apple

2012-01-12T06:57:00.000-08:00

I love the title of that song by MxPx...It is worded perfectly.

I am thinking about temptation today. It is a reoccuring theme with me I think. Possibly due to the fact that I consistently fall to it.

Looking at the text from Luke 4:9-12, proves we do not have to fall...

9)Then the devil took Him to Jerusalem to the highest point of the Temple and said, "If you are the Son of God, jump off!"
10) For the scriptures say, "He will order his agels to protect and guard you, 11)And they willhold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone."
12) Jesus responded, "The scriptures also say, "You must not test the Lord your God."

Wouldn't that have been a dramatic scene, Jesus hurling toward the ground and rescued by a band of angels at what would seem to be at the last second. He chose to resist. We can as well! It's not an impossible feat.

Examine your own pursuits of popularity or relevance. How many celebrities compromise beliefs for fame? Heck, we do the same.

Think about what your temptations are. What do you struggle with? I know what mine all are....sigh.....But there's hope. Promises of the ability to over come. One day at a time. One foot in front of the other. And lots and lots of prayer.

My Bucket List

2011-12-29T11:27:00.000-08:00

"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all"-Helen Keller

I decided to write a "bucket list" simply for lack of anything much to blog about and to be thinking and day dreaming of grander things. Does anyone else think this way? I wonder.

Here goes....

1. Get some writing published

2. Completely read through the Bible

3. Take my kids to Disney World

4. Go sky diving or bunjee jumping

5. Go to New York City

6. Own a 1969 Camaro

7. Visit Italy

8. Learn to play an instrument

9. Sing in a band (even just once.)

10. Go on a cruise

11. Do some mission work

12. Go on a silent retreat

13. Write a song

14. Visit all family near and far

15. See all 50 states

16. Learn a different language

17. Go to all home St. Louis Cardinal games in one season

18. Take a photography class

19. Volunteer at a children's hospital

20. Be at Times Square for one New Year's Eve

There it is....my list. Thank you for appeasing my current writers block.

Going Back

2011-12-08T11:40:00.000-08:00

I've done it! I made an appointment with an advisor. I guess I am really doing it, I am going back to school.

I am excited but more nervous. Wondering if I can do it.
I really want to. The kids are getting older, I am not getting any younger. I have a heart and I believe a calling in special education.

We'll see what the advisor says but my tentative plan is to take a night class a semseter and a some online as well.

YIKES!!!!!

Near and dear to my heart

2011-11-29T12:25:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to decide how to write this post. This is a post to spread the word about Autism. There is a whole month that is devoted to this disease (April) but I think it warrants many more days/months/lifetimes to spread the word. I have some sad statistics but it is such a personal subject close to my heart.

I'll start with the stats...

*1 in 91 Children in the U.S. has autism.....
*Autism figures grow daily
*More children wil be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes, and cancer combined.
*Autism is the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
*Autism costs the nation over $35 billion a year, keep in mind it is subject to growth as the diesase does.
*Austism receives approximately 5% of the government research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases.
*Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism.
*While there is no cure or medication for autism, thousands of children have shown significant improvement resulting from early diagnosis and use of effective interventions.
*The increase in prevalence rate cannot be explained by better diagnosis alone.
*While the cause of autism is unclear and up for debate, studies show genetics and environment play a role in the disease and the increase.

If you have any question that your child or someone you know and love has autism I recommend doing a search for signs and symptoms. There are helpful checklists and obviously see your pediatrician. If you feel like your doctors are not getting the help you need and you think there is more please follow your gut. Especially if you are the mother of a child you think has some of the signs or something is just not right. YOU are their best advocate!!!

My son Noah is on the autism spectrum. He is not a "typical" autistic child. But he has some of the symptoms. The symptoms he has/had is what alerted me to check a checklist myself when he was 5 years old. He is now 11. He has gotten soooo much better through the years and after much acceptance and life changes I am thankful for who he is! God blessed us with Noah this way for a reason. Please contact me or post if you have any questions or comments. I love to be an advocate and want to help this cause.

Three Thanksgivings ago Part II

2011-11-18T17:37:00.000-08:00

So, Ellie's first surgery went well. She recovered well. The plan was to go back every 3 months for a check to make sure there were none coming back. We went back first time. There was nothing. Second time we go back there are 2 tumors in the same spot. So, here we are again, facing another surgery. *SIGH*

This surgery was in June of 2009. By this point we know the drill, so to speak. It still doesn't make the waiting room any friendlier. I had an uneasy feeling about this go round. This surgery would only be differnt in that the surgeon was planning on going in the same incision but taking more tissue out.

They call us back to recovery. Relief set in when I got to see her. Sleeping of course. Then after she woke up, she was ill from the anesthesia. The next morning after the swelling goes down, her eye didn't look right. Her right eye was a little droopier than the other.
I called in the nurse who then calls the doctor in. He takes a look and asks her some questions. He determines that he had accidentally hit a nerve during surgery. The eye was not only droopy, but the dialation was off. She could see fine. Thank God, no damage had been done. A team of doctors came in to examine and take the case. Opthometrists came in as well. I can imagine she was scared.

They called it Horner Syndrome. The doctors said that they didn't know if her eye would ever go back to normal again. That there was nothing to be done but to wait and see. This was hard because if you know Ellie, her eyes are huge and so pretty. This was going to be hard. It was very visibly different. I was obviously worried about kids teasing, people staring, etc. As was she. After a few months it continued to get a little better. We continue to see the doctor every 3 months as scheduled. Then the opthamologist did not need to see her any more.

Her eye did eventually go back to normal. We are now seeing the surgeon yearly. YAY!!! Thank you God!!! So we have been tumor/surgery free for 2 years!!! So, after the fear, I saw God work. I may never know why these things happen. But Thank You God!!! Thank you for keeping my little girl in your hands!!!

Three Thanksgivings ago......

2011-11-11T07:48:00.000-08:00

Every Thanksgiving or around this time (and many more times through the year) I am reminded of a very scary time in our lives.

It was a warm day in October and I was putting Ellie's hair up in a pony tail so she could resume playing outside but hopefully a little cooler, when I noticed a very large lump on the side of her neck. The lump was in between a golf and tennis ball in size. So, you can imagine what my mind went to instantly.

I called the pediatrician immediately. He saw her that day. Basically saying he thought it could be drained. He wanted to send us to a surgeon at St. Louis Children's Hospital. After many tests, ultrasounds, etc, the surgeon determined it was not able to be drained and surgery was in her future. They called it a hypo blastoma tumor.

We got through surgery. I say "we" because I was a nervous mess. Ellie was a trooper and did very well. Even in recovery, she was in good spirits and I know she was in pain. We were glad that part was over. Now the mass was to be sent in for tests. So we wait.....

The Monday before Thanksgiving we get a call from the Surgeon. He begins to tell me that it is cancer and the head spinning information about chemo and radiation comes into conversation. Standing in shock and in tears I am just numb. Numb with fear and a heart sooooo heavy

I tear up even as I type this.

For the next two days we begin to attempt to wrap our heads and hearts around the possibility of a fight for our little girl.
Then on Wednesday, the surgeon calls again and says they did further tests and it is not cancer!!!!!!!!! Wanting to be so relieved, but I questioned him. "Are you going to call again and say the tests are wrong? I am afraid to believe." I am sure his response was some form of a no. I don't remember the rest of the conversation. I only remember doubling over in tears again but with so much relief and thanking him. The next day was Thanksgiving and we had so much to be thankful for.

Every year I am thankful for all I have. But EXTRA, EXTRA thankful. I will forever be thanking God for her precious life!

there is a part 2. I will leave that to the next post. Right now, I am caught up in the joy I feel in part 1.

Blessings........

My Little Lady

2011-11-08T03:39:00.000-08:00

After two boys, I finally got my girl!!!
Elizabeth Grace. We call her Ellie. My mini me. She is currently 8 years old. She is such a sweetheart. She has a servant's heart and I am so proud of who she is becoming. Of course every mother is biased. However, I will continue to brag a little. :) She has a large vocabulary and is super smart. I love to see the look on her face when she figures something out or gets the right answer. She just lights up.

She sings! And sings amazingly well for an 8 year old. I love that she loves music the way that she does. She is learning to play the piano and hopes to someday be a singer professionally. She has come out of her shell and has become very social. In fact, all of my kids are. Hmmm, don't know where they get that!?!

Ellie is transitioning into a stage where she feels she is too old for baby dolls. This means for mom that she is truly growing up. But I proud of the modest, loving, and helpful little lady that she is becoming!!

Thank you God for giving me such great children!

My oldest....

2011-11-06T06:18:00.000-08:00

My oldest son, Trevin is 15!! Yes, I have a 15 year old! He's a busy teenager who is involved in sports of all sorts, has a ton of friends and has a girlfriend. Whom we approve of. She is sweet and I am proud of the good girl he has chosen to spend some time with for now. Even though I don't think he should have a girlfriend at all but what do you do? :) So he stays busy. He plays golf, basketball, tennis and baseball. He is taking driver's ed now so he drives as much as he is able. There does the time go? I am proud of you Trev!!!!

You're So Special!

2011-11-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

All of my kids are special in their own ways. They are each unique. I decided to devote posts to each of them individually. I am going to talk about my middle child first. Because he is special for two reasons.

He is quite a character! He is 11 years old. His name is Noah David. The name Noah means peace and rest. Which truthfully some of the years of his life has been anything but restful. I say that with a chuckle now. About 7 years ago I wouldn't have said that with much of a chuckle.

Noah is on the autism spectrum. The early days of this was extremely hard. But over time it has gotten easier and God is so good!!! HE has definetely helped get us through this! Noah is not your "typical" autistic child. He, unlike most autistic kids, is VERY social. He loves people and will talk to anyone! He is very affectionate. He loves hugging. Which is very uncharacteristic of autism children. He is very sweet, He does talk. He has taken speech for many years. His speech has improved so much!!

HE HAS TAUGHT ME SO MUCH!!!!! You know before you have your own children or when you see kids getting loud and upset in the store and you think, my kids will never do that? Well, don't think that. I know I feel sorry for those parents whom get the make your kid behave stares. I have been one of those parents.

He has taught me about acceptance, and unconditional love. He has taught me to be more patient. To think outside the box. Look at different learning ideas and lifestyle ideas.

Your life changes so much when you have children and it changes even more drastically the day you find that your child has special needs. I am so thankful for him. For who God made him to be.

Thank God for Noah!! He is so special!!!!
Next time I'll post about my oldest!

Ode To Joy....

2011-09-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

The dictionary's definition of Joy was this: the emotion evoked by well being, success, or good fortune, or by the prospect of possessing what one desires. Delight.

I was a little disappointed in that definition. I think that is a very worldly definition. It does make us briefly happy to get a new car, a new house, a new something. But what does that happiness do, it goes away. Then the desire to get a newer car, newer house a newer something is there. That is not true JOY!

I do not claim to practice this right, I really don't. But I want to. I want to find joy in the simple fact that God is God and He has chosen ME. This ME who is messed up, my junk is stacked a mile high. But He loves me anyway. I WANT to just simply have joy in that. I have to admit I am not there. I really want to be.

Job who had lost it all wrote this in Job 8:21...He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.

In Psalm it says this....Ps. 22:26...The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the Lord will praise him. Their heart will rejoice with everlasting joy.

I do not even pretend to have any answers just some thoughts I am mulling around in my own head. I want Joy but not joy like the definition states. I want joy in the every day. The little things. WHATEVER God wants for my life not matter if it gives me "joy" or not at that time. In the end I want the joy that will follow with being obedient. Joy in the hard stuff. It sounds fun doesn't it? It doesn't feel good sometimes. I will be honest I don't feel joy today. But that will change as he does what HE wants and if I let him.

Moving

2011-09-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

I loathe moving. But I have done it enough times that I am pretty good at it.

I have lived in many places in my short 32 years.

I grew up in Louisville. Lived here until I was 19, married and moved to East Alton Illinois with my ex and Trevin. Trevin was 3 then. Wow!!! A lot of years have gone by!!
We lived there for 4 years. That is where my two younger babies were born. Good memories there!! We lived in two different houses there in East Alton. So there was a move within the move.

Then we moved to Sumner Illinois and stayed there for only 18 months. It was a good 18 months in a small town close to family. In Sumner too, there was a move from a trailer we were staying in until the house was done.

Then to Champaign. The kids and I stayed in Champaign for 5 years. No house changes there.
Now the kids and I are in Louisville. Back where I began.

The kids and I are moving into our own place!!!!! NEXT WEEKEND!!!!!!! I haven't started packing one thing. uggggg......I am not ready. Mentally I am really ready. Physicall, not so much. Guess what I'll start doing this weekend?!?!!!

Heres to moving again. But just around the corner!

You're The Inspiration....

2011-09-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

I have not been good at keeping my blog up very well. I have been inspired to do so by a few blogs. I have to give them props.

First there's always mabelshouse.blogspot.com who I have loved to read from the beginning of the journey as a wife, writer and now mother. She has a great story.

Then there's megduerksen.typepad.com shw is so fun and colorful. She's adorable!! Has a big family and is so multi talented. I want to be her.

Another favorite for me is theoldpaintedcottage.com. I love, love the decorating on this blog! I love her style and will often come away from there with ideas for my home. (even if I don't do them, it's a dream)

Next is houseofturquoise.com. She is inspired and in love with the color turquoise. I love the photos I find on there. Particularly yesterdays post pictures. I so wish I could have my kids' rooms look like that.

Theres a blog written by Mary Kathryn Tyson, who is adorable!!! She is a great writer, christian, and she really has been trying hard to write a post a day. Which essentially made me want to post on my blog more as well.

Well, here's my post for today. I hope you have been inspired as much as I have by these few writers/geniuses.
I'll try again tomorrow.

<3 Brooke

I Am.....

2011-09-20T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am fragile, I am sensitive.

I am strong, but can be weak.

I am up, but can get down.

I am love and am passionate.

I am tough, but can be broken.

I am extreme, but mundane.

I am a mother and still young at heart.

I am a sister, a daughter, and a princess.

I am happy and sadness comes.

I am a color yellow but feel blue.

I am a flower but feel the weeds.

You make all things new....I am

6 Reasons I Am Smiling Today.....(No particular order)

2011-08-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

1. I have a new job that I love.

2. I am healthy minus a little cold.

3. My kids are happy and healthy.

4. My life just seems to be balancing.

5. I have dark hair again. It is just fun to change it up.

6. I AM LOVED!!!!!

Why are you smiling today???? Tell me!!!

Long time.......

2011-08-15T07:50:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in a very long time. So much has happened. I am now divorced. My kids and I live with my brother. He helps with the bills, kids, etc. It is fine.

I am doing okay. I am trying to focus on my walk with Jesus. It is a bit strained. I did well for a while. I really lost ME in there somewhere. It is sometimes hard to stay above water in these circumstances. How do people do this every day? How do you say goodbye to a dream of what you thought your life would look like? Tiptoe into a relationship with someone else, it fails, and then you're sad again. Why is life so hard?

I don't mean to sound like a drag. I am thinking of the bigger picture. God, what do you want me to learn in this? What do you want me to see? Where are you taking me next? I want answers. It is my nature to be impatient. Who is there out there for me? I stood in the shower one day and just said, "God! I just want someone to love me." He said to me....."I do." Shouldn't that be enough? Shouldn't HE be all I need? I want to be at that place. I am just freshly out of a relationship. The first one after the divorce. Im still a little raw. I am a little angry. A lot confused! And a little tired. Life is just super hard.

But I know that if I do what HE asks, which is hard when it shouldn't be.
I know that if I am patient I will be rewarded. I would love to be noticed but not because I am thin and look better than I used to. I want to be loved for me...the inside.

Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.-Ephesians 3:17

2011-01-28T19:55:00.000-08:00

Tonight I am thinking about how extremely blessed I am. Even in the season I am in, I feel so much peace. I am blessed beyond belief. I am healthy. My kids are healty. My kids are amazing! They have hearts that yearn to learn and follow Jesus!! God provided a job when I needed it. He doesn't let us down, so why do we stress? I found a church that I really like. I am super excited about getting plugged in there. I have great family and friends around me. I do not say all of this to boast, only to boast on what the Lord has done. He has done great things. All glory be to Him!!!!!

Psalm 29:11
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.

Do you feel the peace as you rest in what God has done for you? Don't just tip toe in, take a dive; it is so peaceful!!

Praise

2011-01-14T06:07:00.000-08:00

Psalm 145:1-21

Most human praise is conditional. We are accustomed to giving or receiving praise when something has been done to deserve it. Many of us do the same thing with God. If we feel he has served us well or come through with a miracle on our behalf, we praise him. Otherwise, we don't think much about him much. The psalmist encourages us to praise God simply because well, he is God. Determine to focus your prayer on the majesty, splendor, and glory of God rather than what you want God to do for you.

In Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, Solomon writes there is a time for everything. I love verse 4. "A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance." There's a saying that I have heard time and again-Dance like no one is watching.....Let's dance for the ONE who is watching and loves to see us rejoice in his glory!!!!!

Adoration

2010-12-19T10:32:00.000-08:00

This was the scripture that was used in church this morning. The message was about adoration and how much we are adored by the ONE who came to us as a babe to save us. Sinners.

1 Corinthians 13
The Way of Love
1 If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don't love, I'm nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate. 2If I speak God's Word with power, revealing all his mysteries and making everything plain as day, and if I have faith that says to a mountain, "Jump," and it jumps, but I don't love, I'm nothing. 3-7If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don't love, I've gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.
Love doesn't strut,
Doesn't have a swelled head,
Doesn't force itself on others,
Isn't always "me first,"
Doesn't fly off the handle,
Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn't revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.

8-10Love never dies. Inspired speech will be over some day; praying in tongues will end; understanding will reach its limit. We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.

11When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good.

12We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!

13But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love.

I love this translation. It didn't just step on my toes, it crushed all of me.

Merry Christmas. May you feel the adoration of Christ and give it to others.

More of Plan B

2010-11-29T07:56:00.000-08:00

I am almost at the end of the book Plan B. It is an excelent read for those of you who wonder: How did this happen? Why did God allow this to happen? or Just ask God are you there?

So, one of my favorite parts of this book talks about how we have always heard about Good Friday, and Sunday when Jesus rose again. Obviously incredibly important parts of the story! But no one ever talks about Saturday. There must have been thoughts in the minds of the disciples, pain, questioning for those that knew Jesus. For those who were intimately involved in Jesus ministry. So, of course I am just speculating that there may have been thoughts of where are you God? How can this have happened? That's a Plan B situation! Although we know the outcome of why, how. We have to wonder. Honestly, I had never thought of the Saturday before.

I have found myself in the Saturday. My recent conclusion is since God is God and we are not, Maybe this is not Plan B, but plan A all along. We are carnal. We make decisions, we make mistakes. God will bless you even then, but I am accepting the fact that even what I consider to be plan B is God at work. So, embrace the Plan. Learn to love the way God moves. Allow the Holy Spirit to soften your heart to really hear the words of God plainly and see that you are exactly where he wants you to be. Saturday is a good day to rest......

2010-11-28T18:15:00.000-08:00

I know I had previously posted about the book Plan B. I am still in that book. It is very good. It is one of those books that I have to sometimes put aside because it is pushing buttons in me and I have to put it down, think about what I have read and see what God is saying to me.

But at Thanksgiving I was hit in the face with a comment/question. Someone in our conversation about church, church styles and more said something like this: Some come to our church and they end up leaving because they aren't getting enough. If we are a seeker sensitive church, there are those who don't want to step up and serve, they just want to get smarter. With deep teaching.

First I must start by saying we are currently serving at a seeker sensitive church. Seeker sensitive is really not the best name for these churches. Really they are churches for those who do not go to church. My first thought was that I didn't think I was one of those that just wanted to get smarter. I still don't but part of that was true about me. I do not serve at this time. I go to a small group, my husband is on staff. I am not sure if I have a call there yet. But am I one of those who just want to get "smarter?" I hope not. I don't need to just get and retain more information. I know that in this particular season of my life, there are many other things going on and that need my attention. Maybe someday I'll serve in some capacity. Right now, I am just sensing that I need to be loved on by others in my small group, corporate attendance on Sunday mornings, and just soak in the love.

I want to say that this isn't just for seeker sensitive churches. It is really everyone, do we go and hear new things and just store them away. While they are interesting facts that we may learn. It is great to learn something new. And for all the input people out there, it is awesome! I love to learn new things. I wouldn't say that I am an input person but do love to learn cool facts or useful information. But please hear me......ARE WE USING WHAT WE ARE HEARING TO MAKE AN IMPACT IN OUR EVERY DAY LIVES OR THE LIVES OF OTHERS? Are we just there for the fill up for the week. For the meat and then burn off those calories and just come back for the refill the next week? I feel a tug on my heart strings a little bit here, my toes are feeling stepped on. Do I go weekly for me? Is it really about ME? No, we are to go out in the pursuit of other's hearts. To show others there is a better life. That Jesus really is the only thing that can make us happy, and our only hope in this messed up world we are in.

So, do we just go in search of the meat for us to fill up? I don't want to be a carnivore. Just to take the meat and run. Is it possible to get both? To get the meat and use what we get? Absolutely.

What do you think? What do you think is holding us back? What can we do to break out of this detrimental way of playing church?

Still learning,
Blessings,
Brooke

Plan B

2010-11-16T06:41:00.000-08:00

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN GOD DOESN'T SHOW UP THE WAY YOU THOUGHT HE WOULD?

That is the headline of a book I am beginning called you guessed it....PLAN B. by Pete Wilson.

I am just starting it. But oh, this may be the book that will wreck me, change my way of seeing or thinking, help me survive. As time goes on, I'll let you know. Some of the best books for me have the been some of the hardest reads. You know the ones. The books you just want to chuck out the window but only because you know it is true. Like the prayers we offer up to change so-and-so....But only to look God in the face as HE says, no how about we change YOU.

I ran across some really good quotes yesterday.

"HAPPY IS NOT A DESTINATION. IT IS A CHOICE."
and
"There is no end of craving. Hence contentment alone is the best way to happiness. Therefore aqurire contentment."-Swami Sivanda

Do you see the theme that I see here?

Does there seem to be a Plan B in your life? Do you wish plan B didn't have to be put in place or are you glad to see Plan B?

From Our Father's Heart

2010-11-02T18:37:00.000-07:00

From Our Father's Heart
11/02/2010

Compare your petitions to Me with those who have gone before you!

Include those who were passionate to bring glory to Jesus

on their way to the arena that was filled with waiting lions and jeering crowds.

Examine your heart and your needs to see if your requests have value

in the light of eternity.

How much of what you request from Me is for the well-being of others?

How much is for your comfort, rather than for your desire to go deeper with Me

no matter what the cost?

Is there ever a time that you come to Me wanting nothing for yourself?

Have you ever had only My plans in mind

and seek Me to implement them in My power?

Have you ever sought Me for the power

to defend My reputation and the reputation of Jesus?

Have you ever wept for how most of the church offends Me

with their weak religion and carnal presentation of My cherished Word?

Have you ever waited in My presence

until you knew for sure what the desires of My heart were?

Do you think that maybe it's time for you to grow up?

I do!

Exodus 33:13a NIV "If I have found favor in your eyes, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you."

Note: Some take issue with the accuracy of The Message. That being said, we sometimes choose to include it as an interpretation, not for study purposes, but to add color and emphasis to what is being shared.

1 Kings 8 The Message "May he keep us centered and devoted to him, following the life path he has cleared, watching the signposts, walking at the pace and rhythms he has laid down..."

Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord.

9) "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

In our pride and selfishness, we miss so much of what the Lord really has for us. We whine and squirm throughout most of the trials that have been sent our way to purify us, missing the point for them. Our attentions are so self-focused that the Lord can rarely use us to implement what is on His heart for those in our little world.

I am convinced that if ever the Lord would show us the comparison of our lives to the passionate life that He intends for us, we would be amazed and ashamed as to how far off course we are most of the time as we move in concert with our own needs, rather than in His desires for us.

Forgive me, Lord! Change my heart,

Jim Corbett

Making connections.......

2010-10-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

Does anyone feel it is excruciating hard to connect or just even think about trying to find someone to connect with. New friends. In my life, some of my favorite people and closest friends have moved. This cannot be helped I know. The military is somewhat like working for the church. You may or may not stay for any length of time. Two of my dearest friends' husbands are in the military. So,,,,Then phone calls aren't enough sometimes. We all have busy lives, kids, they have their new communities. They are in the same boat, trying to find all new friends to add to the collection of their old ones.

BUT does anyone else find this extremely hard and uncomfortable. I am an extrovert by nature. Love people. Need to be around people. I know it is good for me for more than one reason. This is one reason why it is good for me to work outside the home for the time being. I know that having relationships in small group settings or just having a good cup of coffee at star bucks with a good friend is so good. But finding that "new" friend is getting so hard for me. I need someone who is REAL~!!!!! I need real, People! I crave it. I just realized that it is most likely due to the fact that it is nearly impossible to be completely real sometimes in ministry. This is an unfortunate fact. I have had a really rough few years. Can I tell most people about it? no. Would they judge me, us? yes. However, I know that investing time and effort and love into a relationship is completely worth it.

So what have I done? I have joined a new small group. Trying to set up times to meet up with some really great girls for coffee or just to hang out.

Do you make friends easily? What do you do to reach out for community?

Fill In The Blank Friday.....

2010-10-19T18:28:00.000-07:00

1.Blogging is something I like. I am not great at it but like having one and reading others' blogs.

2. Current fashion traits I wish I was brave enough to wear is funky colors in my hair. I see people sporting cool pink streaks in their hair and I love it!

3. My greatest accomplishment in life thus far is although I am not finished, and still completely clueless sometimes, I would have to say being a mother. It is the hardest but one of the best things I have gotten to do. (Besides being a daughter of the King and wife to David.)

4. If I had to choose between a mountain vacation or a beach vacation, I'd choose a beach vacation! For sure!!! I would love to just lie on the beach all day! No cares, no worries.....

5. The talent I wish I had is to be a better writer. I love good writing and would love to be better at it. I have really good content for a book :)

6. A talent I do have is singing. I don't get to do it often any more. Just in the car and around the house.

7. This week was good after I started to kick the cold that Noah so graciously shared with me. Thanks Noah!!!

New bible

2010-09-30T07:17:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday at church, all of the 3rd graders were given a Bible. Noah was looking forward to receiving his. He had talked about it for a couple of weeks. He gets a little excited about things. He so proudly stood on the stage with all of the other cutie 3rd graders and accepted his bible and shook the pastors hand.

So, this morning as I headed out the door to drive the kids to school, I see them leaned up against the van with their bibles. I am not sure if they were comparing, or just thumbing through, but at any rate it was a blessed, make this mommas heart smile moment. Noah takes his in the car with us. At the end of the day he will often carry it inside and then it makes the trips with us the next day. Even though he struggles to read some of the words, he tries. What was so cool was to see Ellie then pick up her bible and join Noah in this.

We will often do our devotions in the car on the way to school. But this morning, Ellie read the scripture from her bible for us. It was a neat morning.

After all the sweetness of this, I sat down to do some reading of my own and started hoping, praying that this will all continue. That the desire to pick up that book and take it with us always will be in us. ALL of us. That the pages of even the new bibles be terribly worn. There is so much great stuff in that book!

I will be thanking the children's minister for the bible!

Not exactly writer's block

2010-09-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

I would like to say that the lack of posting has been writer's block. That would not be accurate.

I actually have a lot going on in this head (and heart) of mine. One major part of my life that God is really trying to chisel from me is FEAR. I had to jump a fear hurdle to even be able to actually write about this. What will people think of me. Silly as that may sound. It is true.
Fear drives a lot of emotions and has baggage. In my case fear accompanies rejection. These two hated emotions reek havoc in my life and have for years, sometimes unknowingly.

I didn't come to this post to sound so glum, but actually seek out what the Bible says about fear. What does Jesus say to me about my own?

First off, Isaiah 41:10 says DO NOT FEAR, for I am with you; don't be dismayed, for I am your God.
Many times my mind swims with fears of all kinds. I am sure that some are more natural than others. I am sure many mothers have experienced fear of some sort. This parenting thing isn't exactly the easiest thing to do. But I am getting down to the bigger fears. The one's that sin/enemy have tried to have a hay day with. The ones that stop me from doing things that may be good for me or stop me in my tracks. Like avoiding people or situations in fear of what they may be (and possibly aren't) thinking of me. The ones that make good thoughts of who I am or what Christ thinks of me take a back seat.

1 Peter 5:7 says: Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. (NIV)

So why oh why can I not let that sink in and listen.

John 6:37: However, those those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. (NLT)

There are some great and big promises there.
Let those promises marinate deep in my soul Lord!

Fighting fear-
Brooke

throne of grace

2010-08-09T17:52:00.000-07:00

"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."-Hebrews 4:16

"All Access"

2010-07-18T19:41:00.000-07:00

Our present message series at church is entitled "All Access". With idea that we have an "All Access" pass to Jesus. This morning our pastor spoke from Mark 14:1-9. I love the visual of Jesus reclined with his friends, Simon the leper, and others just enjoying good company and having a meal together. The story as we have always heard it is that they are all relaxed, probably having some good conversation; (I cannot imagine being in the presence of Jesus and not having good conversation) and a woman comes to him and uses her most expensive perfume to wash his feet and anoint Jesus. Of coarse we know that some of the disciples try to stop this act and tell her that it could have been used to feed the poor, etc. Of course we know that Jesus stopped them and proceeded to say to them, "she poured perfume on me beforehand to prepare for my burial." I love this story, but something that our pastor pointed out that I thought was interesting was the leper had a home. Back in those times, lepers were cast out to live outside of the town with other lepers and if approached were to tell others they were unclean. We can only wonder if the leper was one that was healed and now accepted back into society and have a home. The very home that Jesus was reclining in, enjoying the meal and company. That very fact is my favorite thing about this story. Sometimes, I feel if I have been "unclean", I don't find myself being back in the norm, the society of which I was once a part of. But this shows how that "All Access" pass thing comes into play for me. Even if at one time, we were outsiders or have found ourselves to be "unclean" and in sin, we are welcomed back by the one who took all of our dirt, our garbage, all of it and died for ME! That is the best part of the story! Although the story doesn't say that it was the man Jesus had healed in previous chapters, I wonder if it is the same one Jesus had healed. However, Jesus was there, hanging out with him.
So, wherever you find yourself, there is so much hope in that. That Jesus the one who came only to save, hung out with the least of these. The ones that were once unclean. I found hope in that today.

LOVE

2010-07-05T08:08:00.001-07:00

Learning to love like Jesus may be one of the hardest things to do.

Why is that? Something that is so necessary to any relationship or situation can be so hard and sometimes painful. But isn't true love putting someone else before yourself?

As I think about what the world says about love and what the Bible says or more importantly what God says about love and it is two completely different things. "Worldly love" is like the movies and gives us the impression that love always looks so perfect and it is intoxicating. The truth is, love sometimes doesn't look like that at all. We are all called to love even when it is hard. I am ugly, broken, and blemished. God loves me anyway.

None of us deserve love, but God freely gives it.

I look at my own kids and see the perfection in who they are. The way they were made and deeply love that in them. They don't have to do anything to win my love. I just do. That kind of love is the love Jesus our own father loves us and desires us to carry and walk that out.

How are you walking in love today? One foot in front of the other, needing strength to go each step? That is where I am. I know I am not alone; and I am loved.

Showing the LOVE

2010-02-06T08:50:00.001-08:00

My mom and I with our red on. It was wear red Friday for Breast Cancer Awareness. My mom looks like she could be a sister! She's so cute!

These are my kids' Valentine's boxes for school. I had envelope boxes from work, I thought would be the perfect size. I cut holes in the tops of them and then found gift bags that were color appropriate.
The handle of the gift bags worked really well. I hot glued them on and the kids loved to help and watch the transformation.

This project was so simple! I used cardboard from an old picture frame, Ribbon and scrapbook paper, and one of my favorite pictures of my sweet kiddos.
......Not too bad for a last minute craft!?!
This is in my hutch that I have dressed up for Valentine's Day. The hearts are ones that I had cut out and held on to. I glued them on a piece of scrapbook paper and put it in a frame I had and set it on a plate stand and turned out to be cuteness. I think. That is my veil that I wore in my wedding 10 years ago and the pillow behind it.

Love "dressing" up the place.

Happy Birthday My Girl!!!!!

2010-01-06T13:19:00.000-08:00

My baby is 7 now!

How did this happen?

How time flies!

Happy Birthday Elizabeth Grace!!! We love you!!!!

Hello 2010!

2010-01-04T13:58:00.000-08:00

Well, it's a new year and my baby had a birthday. We rung in the new year with junk food, movies and games. The kids and I hung out at my place and had a good time. We bought a couple of new games and had to try them out. We drug out the bean bags and vegged out in front of the TV and the boys played a little of the wii. It is amazing how tired I was and how I had to struggle to stay up to see the new year in. We were all so tired, as soon as we watched the ball drop and it was all over, we said okay good night all. And went to bed.

Now, to the other event: My baby turned 7 on Sunday!!!! I can't believe my baby is 7! How does the time go so fast!?! We had lunch with my parents and then cake and presents. She was thrilled. She got a cash register and play food. She also got the cutest toy vacume sweeper. I got her clothes. The growing girl desperately needed new clothes, some stickers, pencils, socks and money.

More Christmas......

2009-12-16T06:13:00.000-08:00

I thought I would post some more pictures of the "Christmas" around my house. This wreath is on our front door. Here is our tree. The picture is a little blurry I realize but it really is a cute little tree.

One of my favorite Holiday decorations.........

Inside my hutch I have snowmen on display.

The top of my hutch. My big barn stars. Love them. They stay all year round.

What we were cuddling up to watch last night on TV. Love that Charlie Brown!

I have a few more things I will post. I thought a little at a time would be fun. :)

Weekend

2009-12-07T06:48:00.000-08:00

Sunday afternoon we relaxed around the house. The boys and I stayed warm inside watching Elf, and Ellie played outside. (She doesn't watch much TV)

I had a yummy coffee with whipped cream and sprinkles in my fun mug.

The kids had a Christmas program at school and it was really cute. They were both such great performers!

Noah is walking by in the brown sweater.

Great weekend!!!!

Christmas Decore`

2009-12-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

I got an Uppercase Living gift and put it up last evening. LOVE IT!!!

Here are some of my Christmas decorations. I have more and plan on more but here's what I've done so far. (in my new apartment)

My favorite thing ever. The hutch!! I hung the stockings there this year. Elizabeth made the garland out of Christmas cards. Cute! Some of my snow men are in there. Love the snowmen!

Here's my new couch sporting a "winter-y" pillow. I am in love with this couch!

Under the tree I placed a wall hanging. (shhhh) I mean our new tree ornament.

There's a peek at my new place in this holiday season.

Merry Christmas! Blessings

THanNKs GiVIng!!!! 2009

2009-11-27T07:01:00.000-08:00

My kids and I

Not sure what I am doing here. But it is a good one of my sister and my grandma Hazel.

I love my little grandma! Isn't she cute!!!

My beautiful Cousins Aubrey, Erica and Amanda

My kiddos and I being silly

My cousin's little boy Calen

My big boy playing basketball.

Ellie took this one of Aubrey

The fam

*Trevin*

*Noah*

*Elizabeth*

Amanda, myself, Megan Aubrey, Erica, and Jessica

Fun day. A lot to be thankful for! Blessings to you and yours.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2009-11-25T08:54:00.001-08:00

It is the day before Thanksgiving. I have a lot to be thankful for. We have our health, we have our faith in Jesus who saves me daily. We are truly blessed. This time last year I was grief stricken and not wanting to celebrate a holiday that we are supposed to be thankful.
Last year we found a lump on our daughter's neck. She had surgery. The lump was successfully removed. The tissue was sent to be tested and the initial tests (they thought) said she had a malignant tumor. Days passed and we were obviously shocked, and numbly talking about chemo treatments and the last thing on our mind was celebrating. But our God who is so, so good and never changing, showed his grace and mercy to us. The day before Thanksgiving, we got a call from the surgeon. They had more tests ran and the tumor was benign!!!! My baby was going to be okay!!!!! We then felt like celebrating!! Thank You JESUS!!! So, one year later, I am still saying thank you every day.

Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!

Paintings

2009-08-22T15:54:00.000-07:00

This one hangs in our bathroom on the "chocolate brown" painted wall. Love it. Later thought that you need to know that the "P" stands for Plemons and not for the bathroom business!
This one I painted for Noah because his big brother had a similar one purchased for him a few years back. Noah needed one too. It was fun to do.

This one was turned out so cute! It was for Trevin's dad and his step mom's new baby. It matched his room perfectly and I just love monograms!

Look at the cute button with that ribbon! Too cute! If I say so myself.

It may not be pottery barn or even perfect, but it is so fun to do.

This one is one of my favorites. I made it for a friend of ours who was having a boy after her 3 girls. Exciting! You can't really tell here but the ribbon on the edge is brown with white polka dots, and there are blue and brown polka dots on the canvas. Loved this one!!!!

ME

2009-08-08T10:28:00.000-07:00

Well, I know I hadn't posted anything since May. I have had a full spring/summer. No full year. Posting here had fallen to the wayside.

Today, I will start out with writing about the new "me" that I am finding. It quite possibly could be the old me that had been tucked away. I am envisioning myself being hidden in an old wardrobe in a room. Tucked away and finally being found. Sound familiar, Narnia fans? Seriously, my identity, self worth, my need to be needed, my faith, love. It has all changed.

It has been painfully wonderful. I say that will all seriousness. It has been a truly painful. But the results, mostly have been glorious. My identity was a stay at home mom with little little ones. I was home schooling. I was very happy this way. I was completely focused on finding the best learning styles for my kiddos and what would work with specifically Noah. Keeping the house and taking the kids on myself became the norm. I did love it. Didn't miss the "old me" at all. I was content doing these things. I was being a mommy and a "good" wife. For 6 years I stayed home doing this routine. Now, I want to say that all of this is awesome. I am not knocking any of these things at all!!!! I am not saying I regret any of it. I truly don't. What I am getting to is that I, after the course of this past year and all the trials we have gone through as a family, I have changed. God has changed me. He has brought things to life in me and killed some other things in me. I sit here now and grin at the realization of how bittersweet life is or can be.

My kids are growing up. And there's nothing I can do about it. Trevin is going to be 13 next month. He moved to his dad's; Noah and Ellie are in school and doing well! But what a shock to my system when they started school. My need to be needed was so deep. They had been it all for 6 years. I went back to work in March. Love my job. It has brought some of me back as well. God allowed me to get this job and even to move up to a better position. Ellie had 2 surgeries and that was scary and hard to watch your baby go through. Complications that came with that too has been difficult. I have been forced to redefine marriage and love. Get healthy in every way. God has definetly been at work with us. So, with all of this being said, I want to leave you with a verse that has been my lifeline........Philippians 4:6

Don't worry about anything; Instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for what He has done.

If you are feeling lost, broken, chained or changed, try to thank HIM. The one who doesn't cause chaos, but may allow it to change you.

Feeling Blessed!

2009-05-17T20:29:00.000-07:00

Here are the kids posing for me when we got to the street before we walked to the American Girl Store. Here is Ellie in front of the Kit Display. She was so excited!
Loved the lunch and it was so cute. She loved having Kit "eating" next to her.
The birthday girls were blowing out the candles on the cake.
The cake is so cute!
Ellie holding her party favors.
Ellie, Madison, Millie, Norah, and Marissa with their dolls.
Our favorite display of Kit and Ruthie in their tree house. The boys went to the Lego store while the girls shopped and ate at the store. The boys had a good time too. They saw a life size lego build of Darth Vader. Noah loved it! Huge Star Wars fans! We had a really fun day! I want to go back to Chicago again soon.

Mother's Day Weekend

2009-05-13T18:42:00.000-07:00

So, I had a great Mother's Day weekend. I didn't have any expectations. I have learned fast that those expectations you may come up with aren't realistic if you have smaller children. But, my kids were very excited about giving me their gifts that they made for me at school. They hid them from me and told me not to look where they had hid them. It was very cute!!!! So, Sunday morning the kids climbed in bed with me and we laughed and snuggled then they let me fall back to sleep. I slept in until 8:30!!! I can't remember when I had slept in that long! Then their gifts were waiting for me on the kitchen table. I loved them all. We had a good morning at church. The worship was amazing! Sunday evening I got home from working and the kids surprised me with cards and more gifts and David had cooked dinner for me. My favorite Chicken Parmesan. They got me a diffuser that I secretly wanted and David got me an adapter to listen to my mp3 player in my car. LOVE IT!!!

This beauty was one of the matching pair that I found at a yard sale. They were a steal! I was thrilled. They were in great shape. Just needed a new paint job. So, I went with the Cherry Tomato Red by Behr. Love them. Their new home is on each side of the fire pit.

Then I got to see my best friend Susan and that is always fun!!! Love her. Well, I hope you all had a great mother's day!! I am truly blessed!!!!

It's Been Too Long

2009-05-06T19:17:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in quite a long time. We've been busy! I don't even know where to start. Noah lost his first tooth last weekend. He has a few more that are loose!

Ellie's class did a "play" and sang songs at family reading night at the kids' school. It was a fun night.

Tonight, we went to a local car dealership that had a car show. They were showcasing their 2010 Camaros. They also had a few 69 camaros. They are my favorite cars ever. That one day I will own. Noah loves the new ones like Bumblebee in Transformers. It was very cool. He even got to sit in one!

That is about all for now.

Easter prep and hunt

2009-04-14T19:30:00.001-07:00

Some of our eggs that we colored. Fun!

Aren't they cute!?! Noah was so excited about his shirt and tie that were "like daddy's." Ellie was so excited about this dress and begged to wear it for weeks.
I love this one of them looking over the bridge. They get tired of me having them pose for me.
All the kids getting ready to hunt eggs on David's grandparent's farm.

You can see how happy they were about their goodies they found in their eggs!
Here's all of the kids on this side of the family. Aren't they all so cute!?!! They had such a good time. We love spending time there. It is so peaceful and we love seeing the family that we don't see too often. It was a good day.

Busy weekend

2009-03-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

The weekend started out with a good visit with some friends from out of town. The boys jumped right back into playing like they have seen each other every day.
Scruffy got a hair cut.
The kids picked out new fish.
I painted Ellie's dresser drawers green. They were yellow and they were chipped.
Did some Easter/spring decorating. Fun!!!

Boys Room

2009-03-25T16:11:00.000-07:00

I have posted about my daughter's room before. This time I thought I would post about my boys' room. For my oldest son's 10th birthday, I told him to choose a color and theme for he and his brother's room and he chose red. Chile pepper red to be exact but in his words the colors of the ST. Louis Cardinals. We took his jersey in to match the color. Later, I painted the dresser, desk, and the book shelf blue. I was thrilled with how the dresser came out. It looks so pottery barn. Truthfully it was a hand me down set. LOVE IT!

I just painted this "jersey" for him to be similar to the one his brother had.
The baseball lamp shade is from Walmart. The glove and ball on the dresser is an old bank.
Here is some of the books that are housed on the shelf and the bucket is from Lowes. It holds some toys. A great idea from the Nester.
Well, that is about it. I for some reason don't have pictures of the bed. They have red bunk beds. But their room is very cute for boys, I think.

2009-03-22T18:49:00.000-07:00

I am nearly to one month of working. It has been so good for me. I can't tell you how nervous I was about this. My first day, I sat in my car and almost cried. I didn't realize how much confidence I had lost over the past 6 years and didn't realize it. I am so thankful for those years to be home with my kids and I got to do something many mothers do not. I got to see them through a lot without missing out on their every day lives. For that I am eternally grateful. They are adjusting very well with our new routine. They enjoy their babysitter and her children. Things seem to be going very well. I love being "out there" again and I really am enjoying myself at my job. I drop my kids off at school and have about a half hour before I have to be at work. So, I get there and sit in my car and read my bible and pray. It is a great half hour for me. A much needed half hour! That is about all for now. On to another week.

Conversations

2009-03-08T18:56:00.000-07:00

The kids and I were in the car and we were having a conversation about Heaven. It went like this:

Ellie: Mom, will we play games in Heaven?

Mom: I don't know Ellie, Maybe.

Noah: There won't be Batman. (said sadly)

Mom: Sorry Noah, But I don't think you'll mind.

Ellie: Yeah, we'll skip and play games.

Mom: Wouldn't it be fun. What games?

Ellie: Duck, Duck, Goose.....

Noah: Everything will be made of gold.

Mom: Yes, the streets. Wouldn't it be fun to play Duck, Duck, Goose with Jesus?

Ellie: I wonder what His laugh sounds like?

That comment made me stop in my tracks. That is a great question. Do you ever wonder what His laugh sounds like? What His smile is like. I do now.

To only think like a child, daily!

Ellie did proceed to ask if God had a cane. I said no, no one will need a cane in Heaven. She laughed and said, Oh I just figured He was old.

My First Week At Work

2009-03-07T11:13:00.000-08:00

Well, I made it through my first day at my new job. I don't know if I mentioned that I am an Activity Assistant. So, the director plans the activities for the residents for the month, and the assistants carry them out. The memories of the job came flooding back, even after 6 years away from it. Memories both good and bad. There are a ton of names to learn and more than I am used to. There is a lot of walking so that will be good for me!

You always get your favorites. It is too early to have one yet, but the picture above is of a sweet lady named Emma Dean. Her husband lives in the facility but they prefer to live in separate rooms. They seem to get along better that way. She is so cute!

I was TIRED by the end of the week!!!! I have learned what shoes will be good to wear, and that it feels good to have some different confidence back. What will take some time is learning balance, and a new schedule for all of us. The kids now have a babysitter after school. But week one went well.

2009-03-01T13:10:00.000-08:00

Well, I am doing it. I am going back to work. My kids are in school, and doing well. I knew that babysitting was a good way to make extra money that we need but it was just a temporary thing. So, I saw an ad that caught my attention. I decided to pursue it and give it a shot. I sent my resume in and thought if they call great and if not, then great. Well, they called. I interviewed and just when I thought "okay, they must have decided to go with another applicant", they called and offered me the position. WOW!!! I saw God's fingerprints on this after that first step. A friend said she would keep the kids for a couple of hours after school and I found a place for the the kids I have been babysitting to go. To my neighbor's daycare down the street. How cool is that?! I thought, okay God! So, after 6 years, I am going to be an Activity Assistant at a Nursing Facility. That is what I did up until my youngest was born. Now, she's 6 and wow, I am really going back. I am not nervous about the job/duties. I am just nervous and excited to go back after all this time. But I am ready to find what else God has for me. The seasons of staying at home and homeschooling are over for now. I know it will be a good thing. So, tomorrow, back to getting up earlier, putting on something presentable, and going out of the house for 8 hrs. a day. I will post later about how it goes.

I did it in 10 Minutes!!

2009-02-19T14:12:00.000-08:00

Here has been the catch all spot for my papers, mail, date book, and phone.
Everything seems to look better in a basket. This will do for now, I just shopped around my house and found this.
My refrigerator was overwhelming me and it looked so cluttered.
I wanted to keep my LOVE magnets on here a little while longer.

One of my favorite bloggers the Nester is having a finale 10 minutes to a room you love. I enjoy seeing other's spaces and getting wonderful and fun ideas. I decided to join in and do some cleaning/decorating of my own.

Today......

2009-02-15T16:51:00.000-08:00

Here's my V Day gift. Faith, Hope, and Love.

Noah and I did this.......while Ellie was at a birthday party.
Then
The kids did this.......

It was a fun afternoon.

Another Day at St Louis

2009-02-11T07:11:00.000-08:00

We spent another day at St. Louis Children's Hospital with Ellie. She was there for a follow up appointment after her tumor was removed in November. We will have these appointments every 3 months and then 6 and so on until she is out of the clear for the tumor to return. This first picture is so cute! She made a friend within minutes. The little girl sitting on the left, her name is Brooke. She was surprised to learn we had the same name. She and Ellie played and she's watching Ellie play her gameboy.

This picture is in the image center, where we had to go to get an ultrasound and cat scan. This part of the hospital is decorated in sports theme. It is very cool! They have autographed pictures from Albert Pujols and a skate board from Tony Hawk. It is very fun.
This is Ellie's sad face. She couldn't eat before her cat scan. She hadn't eaten since about 9:30 and this was about 1:00. Very hungry girl!!!
We went down to the gift shop and she found this cute puppy, she named him Scruffy like our dog at home.
Finally at 3:00 we were able to eat lunch!!!!! She had her milk shake first. She was so excited that her lactose intolerant brother wasn't there. She took full advantage. She had a milk shake, grilled cheese sandwich, and fries which she dipped in cheese! Very full and exhausting day. But what a cute and sweet girl right!!!!!

2009-01-30T08:56:00.000-08:00

With these......
They made these........

Aren't they cute!!!!!!

Baby Harper

2009-01-29T19:43:00.000-08:00

I have been checking in on this blog: www.kellyskorner.com to see the progress of her new little baby girl Harper. They have been through a lot and God has shown His great big love to this family. I encourage you to check it out and it will inspire you as much as it did me, I am sure.

Blessings!

I love you Goodwill!

2009-01-29T10:18:00.000-08:00

Here's my loot from today's Goodwill rummage.
This is a pretty pillow case with a great ruffle. I will find a place that is perfect for this.
I love finding vintage table coverings and hankies. These were precious.
This is a great sweater. Love the ribbed sides.
And look at this scarf! Don't you just love the flower! I love scarves. I love making them and buying cute ones like this. I quite possibly have a new obsession.

There you are a peek into my new things. The best part, all for $14.94. Even perfect price. I love Goodwill.

Baby it's cold outside

2009-01-26T19:27:00.001-08:00

This is what my living room looks like most cold days. Oh, and that is not a real bug on the floor. Those are my slippers there. What kid doesn't like to wear an adult's slippers or shoes for fun!?
I was so cold today that I wore these. They are perfect to still be on my laptop. :)
With coffee in hand of course.

On to Tuesday........

Six Happy Things......

2009-01-25T19:50:00.000-08:00

My sister in law Hannah has tagged me in a sweet award tag and I thought I would play along.

Here are the rules:
Link to the person who gave you the award.
Post the rules on your blog.
List six things that make you happy.
Tag six people at the end of your blog and link to them.

Here are my happy things....

1. My family. I have a wonderful bunch of people around me and I know would do anything for me. My husband of going on 10 years! My 3 children. They get me out of bed in the morning. (not just literally but they make me happy!)

2. Coffee and a warm blanket. I love coffee. Can't start my day without it. Probably just in my mind but I do feel I can actually function after a few yummy sips.

3. I love blogs. Reading them, writing on my own, love it all. I find so much inspiration in them. For my home, kiddos, and just life.

4. Spring- It can't come soon enough. I can't wait for it to get warmer and those flowers and trees to bud. Oh!

5. Watching my kids growing into their personalities. Sometimes are challenging but it is interesting to see who they are becoming. To see their interests and help feed that. I just hope I can pour into them as much as I know my heart wants to.

6. Love Amish Frienendship bread. I baked some this week. The starter was given to me by a neighbor and we've enjoyed it all weekend.

Hannah tagged 3 and I think I will follow suit.

Kathy is a sweet friend that used to be my English teacher. She is such a cute girl! A devoted Christ follower and I just love and miss her.

Megan is a friend from so far back. I keep up with her and her family by her blog. Her cute little boy was voted the cutest baby in Springfield a couple of years ago. He is super cute and smart. Watch his videos. You'll laugh out loud!

Wow, I can't think of anyone else to link to. Sorry you only get 2! Have fun!

Saturday

2009-01-24T21:00:00.000-08:00

This is my niece Norah. I almost forgot add this photo. It should have come later but just look at her cute little face. So, here's some of what we did today.......
This morning we started out by haircuts. Ellie's hair was getting long enough that she would cry every day when we would brush her hair. I was going to get my hair cut and decided we would both get our hair cut. Her hair cut turned out adorable.
II made Amish Friendship bread and it makes 2 loaves. While I was napping, my kids got into it and did this to it! I guess it is still edible. They ate the best part too.
My sister in law and her family moved into town! We helped them unload the truck and the kids played. These are most of the grand kids. Noah (Rex from star wars) and Millie.
Cute Millie!
Samuel had this cute horse costume on the whole time.
Ellie and Josiah colored pictures together. They are both artists. It was a fun night and now the cousins live close by!!! We are so excited about that!

That was our Saturday.

2009-01-16T15:19:00.000-08:00

What is one of the most fun games to play on days that school was called off? Here's one of the ones they played. (with the kids I babysit)

Saturday fun

2009-01-14T07:59:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday we met my mother half way from where she lives for lunch and shopping. We met at McDonald's for lunch. The kids were having fun. I was thinking of the germs that will have to scrubbed away from the play area. But they love it-rare treat. You know you are a germ-a-phobe when your daughter says "will there be anything yucky in there?" Poor girl. She is learning those things from me.
Anyway, we then had some grown up fun. We went shopping. We went to Cato and I have to say I am loving that store. It is affordable and such cute stuff. I don't think we have one in our town but we should.

I found the perfect, I am going to conquer the world and get a job fab outfit. I took some pics just to have a future reference. How cute! Right?!! I know it is such a deep post here but I need a little fun today. Bring on the pics. Bring on the conquering and I need a job!!!!!!

Father's Heart

2009-01-08T09:41:00.000-08:00

This was my devotion by email today.

From

Our

Father's Heart

January 8, 2009

From Our Father's Heart

Will you pour your life into someone who doesn't care
if I ask you to do it?
Will you continue to give and give
when the ones to whom I send you can only take?
When will you say, "Enough"?
When will you lay down the cross I give you?
I need lovers of those who hate Me.
I need examples of the crucified life of Jesus.
I need a people whose love is deeper than the hate
that comes against them.
Will you love as Jesus loved for My sake and for the benefit
of someone who has no idea of your pain?
Will you stay on the cross I give you
until I remove you?
Jesus stayed there for you!
Now it's your turn.

Matt. 5:11-12 NIV "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
12) Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

John 4:34 NIV "My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work."

John 15:12-14 NIV "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.
13) Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.
14) You are my friends if you do what I command."

I Cor. 13:7-8a AMP Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening].
8) Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]...

From page 238 of the Living Christ's Passionate life guidebook by Jim and Merry Corbett

Compassion, which is stimulated by the spirit of mourning ever-present in the heart of Father God, is the conduit of the flow of power to heal infirmities and touch hearts. If it does not function in each of us, nothing eternal can be accomplished; only fleshly results will materialize. No wonder most of the church is powerless in so many situations.
Those who share the spirit of compassion with the Lord will not "weary in well-doing," and will work unflaggingly until the last soul has been brought into the Kingdom of God. As Paul said, "I am again as if in birth pains until Christ is formed in you..."
When the last soul has been brought in, when all of the intended work of the Father is finished, the compassion of the Father and those who have been made like Him will be satisfied. Only then will the compassionate be comforted and cease from laboring towards that end (mourning.)

Fill me with Your kind of compassion, Lord.

Jim Corbett

I have a 6 year old!!!!

2009-01-03T15:33:00.000-08:00

Today my baby turned 6! Birthdays are always a little bitter sweet when it comes to my kids' birthdays. I am exited with them and I always want them to have a good time. But it is sad that they are growing up so fast. Ellie said today she doesn't want to grow up. I wish I could freeze her at this age.

We had such a fun party for her. It was almost as fun putting it together as it was for her. She had 3 friends that were able to come. She wanted a "tea" party. She asked the girls to bring their favorite stuffed animal or doll to come along. She of course had Kit her new American Girl doll as her guest. It was too cute! I wanted to post some pictures of the decorations and then some of the actual party. There may be a lot of photos here.

New Year!!!!

2009-01-02T12:11:00.000-08:00

The kids and I had a good time. As good a time we could. I didn't think they would be able to stay up all night quite yet. David and Trevin were at the church for a lock in. Trevin had a really good time there with his friends. You can imagine a ton of junior high students at a lock in with games and junk food!!! We watched Horton Hears A Who, ate popcorn, and hot chocolate as you can see, and the kids were out by 10:00. I stayed up to watch the ball drop and waited for a phone call from David after midnight. The kids were very happy to be up late. That was our night. Trevin and David got home at 8:00 the next morning and slept all day. I cannot imagine staying up all night. I haven't done that in years. Poor David had to keep 50 junior high and highschool students busy all night! Well, Happy New Year!!!! I hope for good things to come in this year!!!!

2009-01-01T08:09:00.000-08:00

I guess I am feeling a little nostalgia this morning. Now that it is 2009! I feel like the time is going by so fast and the kids are growing up so fast. I decided to go down memory lane a little.

Here's to another year and more growing! Happy New Year.

2008-12-31T15:58:00.000-08:00

This was our Christmas card this year and with the New Year coming in, I wanted to leave this message with everyone. Peace, Hope and Love to all in 2009!!!!

Have a blessed New Year!!!

Happy Birthday Elizabeth Grace!!!!! (a little early)

2008-12-31T08:07:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post today because I know that I will be busy the next few days. I have a list going on of things to do.

I wanted to take a few minutes and reflect on my beautiful daughter's birthday that is quickly approaching. She will be six on Saturday and I just can't believe how fast time goes by. I remember the day she came into this world and cried until I held her. As soon as they put her in my arms, she was content. That is how it began. She has always been my girl. She is so special and I am so blessed to have been entrusted with this little person who gives me so much joy. I love my boys, and after 2 special boys, I prayed for a girl. She looks like a carbon copy of me but has her daddy's personality. It is quite a mix.

Happy Birthday my sweet girl!!!

2008-12-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was very fun for us. I say us because I get just as much enjoyment seeing the kids open the all anticipated presents as they enjoy opening them. As you can see here, they had huge smiles on their faces. They were pleased. Ellie got her American Girl doll that she had waited for all year. Noah got star wars toys and was just excited to get money. Trevin got clothes and cologne. He's getting so big that clothes are good for him. You know that junior high age, where they start caring about what they look like.

All of the girl cousins got American Girl dolls and had fun playing with them all together. They all got different dolls and it was fun to have them pose for what they called the American Girl club picture. So cute!

I am always in charge of the birthday cake for Jesus. This year I thought it turned out quite pretty if I do say so myself. My Ellie got to blow out the candle after we sang happy birthday. One of my favorite family traditions-keeping it about the real reason we do this Christmas thing in the first place. Well, I thought I would share a glimpse of my holiday goodness. There was so much more. Now for the New Year!

Early Christmas

2008-12-22T20:00:00.000-08:00

We had some early Christmas with the kids tonight. David has to be at church on Christmas Eve. At our church we have 4 services on that night. But on Christmas Eve my family gets togther. So, the kids and I go without him. I hate that but we have done it for years. Then Christmas morning we meet up at his grandmas house for lunch. In the 9 years that we have been married, we have only spent 2 Chrismas Eve nights together. But on a happier note, we had Christmas with the kids tonight. They were so excited to open their presents and so right after dinner they came right into the living room to get their presents together.

The kids were so excited and loved what they got. I explained to them that they got 3 presents each and that Jesus received 3 presents as well. We liked that idea so much that for the past couple of years it has worked well for us.

I got a new camera!! I was so surprised. I did not expect it at all. I was so happy. I didn't like the one I had before. What a fun night. BTW that is my cute husband in there. Never before seen on my blog. (I don't think) :)

Merry Christmas. I pray blessings on your holidays!

Frugal Decorating

2008-12-20T15:41:00.000-08:00

So, some of these pictures you may have already seen. I basically had little to no money to spend on decorations. So, I used a lot of items I already had around the house. Or things that have been given to me or items I crafted.

In the first picture, I used some photos of my cuties that I have had that only come out this time of year. The second picture is our picture of Jesus I thought we would put under the tree for representation of the best gift of all. He is surrounded by presents that Ellie wrapped for her cousins. Then David and I needed a stocking for our gift exchange on his families side and I displayed them on the entertainment center. They were $1.00 each at the Dollar Tree. Another Dollar Tree purchase was the peace ornament. The red sparkle tree in the next photo was a dollar find. I see them everywhere but I am sure they cost more than what I purchased mine for! On jar has Christmas cookie cutters in it and the other jar has tea lights that I had on hand. I feel like this spot still needs some more pops of red but for now, it works!

The next picture is more special to me. The Nativity scene/globe was given to me from my mother. It plays O Little Town of Bethlehem. I love it and it means so much to me to have it.

A fun craft project is my next example. I had scrapbook paper and a frame that was originally was brown but chose to paint it rustic like with my black paint. I had an ornament that says joy that was gold when purchased. I chose to paint it as well and voila-a cute picture! One of my favorites that may stay out all year long somewhere in the house. The next picture is my large barn star that I hung a berry wreath under just to add some sparkly goodness to the star.
Ellie and I cut out snow flakes and hung them above her bed so she could lie in bed and watch the snow. She loved this idea!
My last picture is a cute sign I found at Meijer. All of their Christmas stuff was 25% off and I loved this sign. I wished I could have found one that said Merry Christmas but this one was too cute to pass up.

I hope you enjoyed the frugal-ness of my home at this time of year. I know there is more around the house but these are some of my favorites. Have a good weekend!

Full weekend

2008-12-14T17:43:00.000-08:00

We had quite a full weekend. Noah and Ellie started off the weekend with their program at school. They were very excited to sing the songs they had been practicing for weeks. They both did such a good job and I was one proud mama on the edge of my seat!
We did lots of playing and hanging out with Trevin. He was home with us this weekend. Noah played with his trusty spider man, and Ellie with her Bitty baby. We had yummy treats with the kids, and Trevin put his ornaments on the tree that I had sat aside for him for when he came home. It was a good weekend with us hanging around the house together.

2008-12-11T07:46:00.000-08:00

After some hot chocolate in our favorite mugs, the kids started on our gingerbread house. It was the first one we've done in quite a long time. I think the first one ever for Ellie. She was beaming. She loves crafts and this was so exciting for her!

So, it looked really good and we let it sit for 35 minutes like the instructions said and then.....

After all of our hard work, it fell apart. I am not sure what happened. But the pieces still looked pretty. I am going to try to repair it for them. But they weren't too bummed. They still enjoyed themselves and snuck in some candy for themselves.

I just had to add the picture of Scruffy who found himself a fun new place to lay. Cute!

Christmas around the house

2008-12-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

I thought I would post some pics I have shot around our home while doing some decorating. I love decorating for Christmas!! I have been looking through many others blogs and wishing my home could look like some of them. But, here's my attempt. We have two trees in our house. We have one in the living room that has colored lights and all of the family ornaments and in our bedroom we have one that has white lights and some simple ornaments. -for me, I love white lights!

Monday Memories

2008-12-08T07:37:00.000-08:00

David rescued some pictures from our computer that died last year. I say some, more like 1300 or so. They are pictures that go back to when I had my daughter almost 6 years ago. So you can imagine how many memories are tied up on my computer. I was thrilled that he was able to retrieve them. I thought I would share some of those memories today. My kids are growing up so fast! Forgive me, I am feeling a little nostalgic.

Hope & Love

2008-12-04T13:36:00.000-08:00

Jeremiah 29:11 & 12~

11. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans for you to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.
12. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

How many times have you heard that verse? Lately this verse is my life verse. If you don't have a "life verse," I urge you to find one. For whatever season you are in-in your life. In a time when things of this world are so uncertain, this is a good verse to meditate on. I may not be "doing the best" with my walk with our creator. But I do know He loves me and He knows right where I am. He sees the end of this parade if you will. I heard this analogy once- Imagine you are at a parade. You look to your left and then to your right. To your left you see the end of the marching band that just passed by and right in front of you are those annoying widgets. You know those guys that drive those tiny cars that you aren't sure how they fit into. Then you look to your right and there are clowns coming to pass out candy. You can't see what is coming next, YET. Well, God sees the whole parade all at once. He knew when you were born, how you would react to a hurt when you are 40. He sees it all from start to finish. I say this to remind us that He is in control and there is a purpose. I am reminding myself of this more than anyone. To quote my daughter-God loves us so, so much! He really does. Don't forget that when you are hurting. Don't forget that He loves you when you can't feel him near. He's there, sometimes He is just waiting for us to find Him.

Mother Theresa even said that sometimes she felt distance from God. Can you imagine, Mother Theresa. I don't know about you but that makes me feel a little better.

I just want us to have HOPE this season. May remember what Christmas is really about. Thanks Papa God for sending Jesus to save us!!!

Snow

2008-12-02T09:56:00.000-08:00

I thought I would post some pics of the kids playing in the snow. They had a few snow fights and would come in and warm up and go out again. Ellie tried to pass the basketball off as a big snowball. I told her it wouldn't be a good idea to throw it. She agreed. After hot chocolate, they finished the afternoon with a little guitar hero.

Tree Trimming and First Snow

2008-11-30T18:44:00.000-08:00

Last night we put up our tree and all of our decorations. We had such a good night. There was Christmas music playing, and the kids were very happy. We popped popcorn on the stove and the kids had hot chocolate. It was such a good night. We sat on the couch and watched the tree lights for a while and watched the Santa Claus movie.

The kids were very excited to wake up to snow this morning. They were so excited they came to wake me up early to show me. After church they hurried into their snow gear to play in the snow. We had a good weekend. Here's to a good week!

Something to be thankful for.....

2008-11-26T16:20:00.000-08:00

In an earlier post, I posted a picture of Ellie after her surgery. We were in waiting to hear back from the surgeon about the pathology reports of what the mass was that they removed. A week came and went with no news. Monday morning we got the call. What he said was that it had cancer cells in the tissue that they removed. We were of course floored and never expected to hear that from him. He mentioned that they would get together with a team of doctors and go over her case and decide what the treatment plan would be. He mentioned chemo and I was sick thinking about it.

So.....we heard from him tonight with the best news. The tumor was benign and they have changed their diagnosis. After further genetic testing, they saw the markings didn't line up with what they thought initially. That it was BENIGN!!!!!! Words cannot describe how relieved I was. We will need to go back every 3 months for scans and rechecks to make sure it doesn't come back. But Praise God that we got the good news. Now we can really have a good Thanksgiving!!!!

That is all I know to say right now. My head is spinning.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!

2008-11-22T05:51:00.000-08:00

I have a recipe to share. The ingredients sound crazy! But, it is really good. We have made this fudge recipe many time during the holiday seasons. So, before you look at the first ingredient and throw this one out, try it and see what you think.

Fudge
1/2 lb Velveeta
1/2 lb butter
1/2 c. cocoa
2 lb. powdered sugar
1 1/2 walnuts (optional)
1/2 tsp. vanilla

1. Melt cheese & butter, stir until smooth.
Keep over low heat. In seperate bowl, sift togetheer the sugar & cocoa. Mix well.
2. Combine sugar and cheese mixtures. Stir until very smooth stir in nuts and vanilla. Press into buttered 9x13 pan. Let cool until firm. Cut into squares.

If you try it, let me know what you think. :)

My starbucks, the nativity fun and the dinosaur was there too.

2008-11-21T18:56:00.000-08:00

I had my starbucks, my popcorn and my buddy T Rex was there to view the puppet show. Cute huh!?!

Something new

2008-11-21T18:49:00.000-08:00

I purchased this finger puppet nativity set from our neighbor's twins. It was a fund raiser for their school. I had my Ellie in mind when I saw it. The pictures really do it no justice. The boys brought it down to our house tonight. I showed Ellie the set and I smiled as she glowed with excitement. She immediately got a blanket and her chair and set up a puppet show.

I know this isn't a tradition yet, but it quite possibly could become one in our house. Maybe until she is older and puppet shows would be too babyish to her, she could do the nativity puppet show for us every year. I love the traditions other families have and love ours as well. Since I can remember, my family has had a birthday cake for Jesus. This happens to be my favorite tradition. The kids would take turns every year blowing out the candle after the Birthday song is sung. Now that all of us grandkids are grown , or most of us, my kids are in on the turn taking! Also, we would put up the tree the day after Thanksgiving. It was always a fond memory for me and I decided to carry that on. We most years have done it on Saturday due to traveling but always the weekend after Thanksgiving. I love to have our Christmas classics playing, pop popcorn, have hot chocolate and get all of our decorations set around. We sit and just watch the lights flash. We usually have colored lights for the kids. I prefer white but my husband won that one. He had fond memories of colored lights as a child. He was very specific. They had to have blue lights. They had blue lights on thier strands at his house growing up. (among all the other colors) I have more pictures of the fun with the puppets tonight but I may have to put them on another post. I am still getting used to my new computer and the new to me photo program . Learning process. But I did get the one witht the "envelope" they come in. They are made of felt by the way. I especially love Joseph. Because of his cute beard. The beard is actually made of string. So cute!!! Tell me, what are your special traditions or fun things you do each year. Or are you starting something new? Please share.

Picturs of the kids

2008-11-20T09:45:00.000-08:00

Ellie after surgery........

making her first build-a-bear. The kids playing in the leaves.

After being at the pumpkin patch,

The first day of school.

Noah helping out with the dishes. Rare.

Ellie being cute at the park.

My big boy looking cute playing football.

Yay!!!!!

2008-11-20T07:14:00.000-08:00

I got a new laptop!!! Actually my husband got it for me and it was used. But new to me!!!!! I am so excited. I needed my own. The "family" computer is old and is very slow. It will still be used for the kids. They really don't play on the computer often.

I love my new one because not only is it just mine but it is small. I am talking very small. It looks like this:

It is like carrying around a book. I didn't know if I would like it but I do!!!!

I am thankful!

BTW-that is not us in the picture. I wish I looked like that!

Too early? .....I think not.

2008-11-19T14:57:00.000-08:00

It somehow feels more like winter to me than fall today. The leaves are blanketing the yard and the trees are oh so bare. Not very warm and fall like to me. I am thinking more of winter and the decorations that make their way into my home. I know we aren't passed Thanksgiving yet. But my snowmen have made their appearance. I won't put up the trees until after Thanksgiving. I say tree"s" because I usually have more than one put up in the house. I love having them in more than just the living room. They are smaller trees of course. If we had a big house I think I would put one up in the bedrooms and kitchen. But our house being as small as it is, gets the appropriate amount and size trees it deserves.

I love this time of year. I love getting, making, and giving presents. I don't hate getting them myself, but the real joy for me is giving them. Especially to my kids. This year will be so fun. The kids are getting big but still at the age to really appreciate the season and why we celebrate. I am getting giggly just thinking about it already. Last year D and I saw Jars of Clay's Christmas concert. It was so, so good. I hope to do something special like that this year also.

Well.....for some it may seem too early to start decorating and possibly calling in the snow in putting out my snowmen, but I can't be more ready!!! It gives me hope I think. :)

Sunlight

2008-11-15T19:43:00.000-08:00

Sitting here this evening, after the long week we've had I am tapped out. I feel like I have nothing. I'm on E. I am extremely grateful for the successful surgery my little girl had, I am increasingly enjoying the improvements of Noah's school experience. So, why am I so bummed? I realized today as I was dozing off in the recliner with the shades closed and still in my pajamas, that I needed the sunlight. I truly needed it. I opened up the curtains a little, picked up the computer and listened to some music and looked at my favorite blogs and felt a little better. Could that have been it? Just a little sunlight? A few of my favorite blogs?
I don't know, I am searching for what it is that is causing my "blues".

Random-ness

2008-11-03T06:28:00.000-08:00

I don't have just one thing to blog about today just a little of random-ness. We made it through our surgeon's appointment last week; and they determined Ellie will have to have surgery on Nov.14. We will be back in St. Louis at Children's Hospital. They will remove the "cyst" and send it off for testing. After that my mind will be more at ease.

On Halloween, we went to the church for a party. The kids play games and get candy. It was fun and not too crazy. The kids didn't eat that much candy that night. They were more interested in playing the games and bouncing on the bounce houses that the candy just kept piling up. We have a lot again this year. Luckily, I am not a "sweets" person. Or I would be in trouble. Ellie dressed as a cat and Noah was Iron Man.

I went to a breast cancer awareness night a couple of weeks ago, and got a month free at Curves. I tried it on Saturday and loved it. I used to go to a gym about 4 years ago and really enjoy that. I am excited to see what happens in a month. I don't know if I will be able to join after the 30 days is up but a month is great too.

I am off to enjoy the beautiful fall day we have!!!!
Blessings!

Our latest news.

2008-10-14T19:26:00.000-07:00

Well, I haven't posted in quite some time. But there has been a lot of things going on. First, our youngest two children who we have been homeschooling for the last three years are now going to school. With our current monetary situation, we decided that I should start babysitting again. It was getting to be too much to do it all. I still want to be home if the kids are off of school. Which by looking at the school calendar, is a lot. So, Ellie is in Kindergarten and she loves it!!! I knew she would. Noah is in First grade. He is doing okay emotionally and socially. Academically he is behind but they are modifying his work and doing what they can to help him. They are evaluating him to see what we need to do get the services he needs. We chose the school that Trevin had gone to and Noah has been taking Speech and Occupational therapies for the last few years. It is a good school. So that has been adjustments.

We have a Surgeon appointment for Ellie at St. Louis Children's Hospital later this month. She has a deposit in her glands on her neck. It is quite large. They will tell us if they want to drain it or remove it.

There is more but these are the things that can be shared. Needless to say, we have a lot going on. I hope to have some good news and good things to share soon.

Here I go again.

2008-09-09T11:55:00.000-07:00

There is a fun give a way over there and I wanted to get in the fun. Although I never get picked, the excitement is fun!!!!

Have a great fall like day!

contest

2008-08-01T05:08:00.000-07:00

There is a great contest going on over at debbiespottery.blogspot.com.

Go check it out!!!

Have a blessed weekend!

Here goes................

2008-05-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

Lately I have heard so much about Jochebed, Moses' mother; Hannah, Samuel's mother; and Isaac, being the sacrifice that God wanted Abraham to make. You know these mother's didn't know the outcome of their sacrifices. Jochebed thought she would never see her baby Moses again. Or if he would even live. Hannah knew that she had to turn over her son Samuel to God and he lived at the temple. But, did she know his fate? Abraham had the knife ready to plunge when he was stopped by the angel. What would you do if you did know? Would you do as God has asked of you? Here's where I am going with this.

For 11 and 1/2 years I have had the honor of raising this wonderful boy. My son who came to me as a wonderful surprise. I have watched him grow, learn and hurt. Now, I am asked to "sacrifice". He has wanted to go live with his dad. Until now, I knew that it wasn't time and he wasn't ready. I wasn't ready. Now, I am still not ready but God says it is time. So many words from others confirmed this, signs, just hearing from God about this. One of my fears is happening. Knowing this day would come, I am not giving in, but giving him to GOD.

His dad is making his way, finding God finally after years of praying. What timing! While that is amazing and wonderful, why am I kicking and screaming but trying to be obedient? I love him. He's been with me all this time. But, doing what God wants is so huge!!!! I want to do what HE wants me to do.

This is my struggle.

Ready for Easter

2008-03-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that Easter is almost here. It seems like we were just picking out Christmas gifts. I am glad to see promises that Spring is here. I have some bulbs coming up in the yard, the kids were out riding their bikes yesterday without jackets.

Easter is always a bitter sweet day for me. It is so amazing what our Lord would do for us! For that I am thankful! But, thinking about the story behind that is sad. As a parent, I could not imagine having to witness what she did. She probably remembered holding her little baby when he was born all those years ago. Wow! I don't know what else to say! What amazing love He has for us. I am so thankful.

Happy Easter!

2008-02-06T06:46:00.000-08:00

So, here it is February already! I noticed I hadn't posted since Oct. Well, not much "new" stuff has been going on.

In my last post, I talked about letting something in my schedule go. I did let go my Time Out 4 Moms on Fridays. I still feel like that was a good decision. I feel so much more at ease now. I still have a good schedule going. We stay busy enough with life.

I am just ready for spring. I don't do well in the winter months after Christmas. I get the winter blues and just long for spring!

That is all for now. Blessings!

Overwhelming Schedule

2007-10-09T06:44:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share a little struggle. It is just one off my list!
I have been feeling overwhelmed with all the things going on in my life. I remember the days when I had nothing to do but school with the kids. The kids are at stages where they are more able to go places with me/us.

Here, I will list my week for you. Which in writing may not look like a lot but tack on school, house etc. and maybe you'll see. Maybe I will do a side by side comparison of used to be and now.

Old schedule:
d/o Trevin at school by 7:40
come home do school (tues-fri)
2 Fridays/mo-Time Out 4 Moms

New schedule:
Mon-clean houses (9-3)
Wed-Body&Soul (9-10)
Thurs-Accountability group (11:30-1:30)
3 Fridays/mo-TO4M (9-11)
d/o and p/u Trevin at school
Oh, do school with Noah and Ellie tues-fri

So, I am feeling a bit overwhelmed. I am thankful that I have such good things to do. All of them are good things. All good for me in many different ways. But, I was just thinking the other night before bed how I was feeling and I asked David if he could read to me (his voice is soothing and it sometimes puts me to sleep.) He went to the book shelf and pulled out a book I haven't read in about 2 years and it immediately started "talking" about things you have to remove from your life and I stopped him and said this is exactly what I was supposed to hear. It said this:
Because of a sense of responsibility you feel toward your commitments and the desire you have to be a part of things, you may have a negative reaction toward limiting involvement. A negative reaction can actually move you toward maintaining the pace you have set for yourself and possibly even increasing your involvement in the attempt to prove yourself that you can "do it all" which can lead you dangerously close to burn-out. Whereas, if you recognize the need to cut back, even though your flesh may cringe at the thought, you might positively respond to limiting outside ministry which will move you toward yielding to a season of increased stillness for the Lord's work and preparation to be accomplished in you.

I was like I hear You God!!!!! Praise God for using my dear husband to use his voice to speak to me!!!! So, you see where I am. I am praying about what things to weed out. Thanks for reading my long post!!!!!!

Meal plan

2007-10-02T15:32:00.001-07:00

I think I got a meal plan for this week. You'd think this would be a no-brainer for me the planner by nature that I am. I think it is that I have no inspiration. The cycle of meals is mundane.

Monday-tacos and taco salad
Tuesday-Alfredo and bread
Wed.-corn dogs and potatoes
Thurs.-chicken and carrots
Fri.-pasta bake
Sat.-probably eat out, grandma's coming
Sun.-breakfast for dinner

School is going well. We are enjoying the beautiful weather we've been having. I guess that is all for now. Blessings!!!!

What did you do for 9/11?

2007-09-12T10:58:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be interesting to see if /what anyone did to remember 9/11 yesterday. I have been thinking how easy it is to "go on" if you aren't directly affected by these tragedies. I know it affects us as a nation. But, I didn't have any family members so were killed or wounded. I did pray for those who were affected. I just have an ache for those people today. I don't want to forget again and move on with my life without a thought of them because the date 9/11 has passed. It is hard. God bless them today!!!!!! Your mercies are new every morning. Let them feel that and Your love today!!!!!!!!

God Box

2007-08-18T06:28:00.000-07:00

I just read a blog that really ticked me off. She said she was really offended that the christian group Skillet didn't mention Jesus or God in their new songs on the cd that just came out.

Okay, here's my view: What if by chance a non believer heard one of those songs and liked it or they were ministered to maybe without realizing it. Isn't it worth it!!
I don't think they are ashamed of their faith at all. Which was one of the comments that was made about bands that don't say Jesus or God in every song. That to me is a load of crap!!!!! Wake up people! We have put God in a box and said this is what a christian looks like, or this is what christians do and if you don't do this you must not be holy. Let's take God out of that box and let Him work in this screwed up world!!!!

School starting soon.....

2007-08-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

I think we have finally pinned down what we will do this year. I will do Sonlight K. I really think Ellie will like it. Noah may not enjoy all of the books. We'll see how that goes. We will work through the Core Knowledge Series-What your K and 1st Grader needs to know. Finish up their Handwriting Without Tears and move on to the next level. As always, their devotions and Bible reading daily. Whew!!!! It seems like a lot on paper. This is the first time we will do Sonlight. My awesome Sister in Law let me borrow her Sonlight Core K!! I hope the schedule I have roughly done works. We will be starting on the 27th.

We had my brother in law's wedding this past weekend. He is the last sibling of my husband to get married. My Noah was the ringbearer. He did such a good job. He stood up there with daddy (who was the best man) and did great. I was worried but he loved the tux. That is what I need. A little suit for home. If he behaves that well with a suit, I joked and said I need to get like 5 of them!!! One for every day. Maybe even 7. It was a beautiful wedding. At the reception, Noah, suit and all was tearing up the dance floor all night!!!! He was so tired.

That is all for now. Blessings!!