Carolina Mommy

Wise words

2011-09-12T20:35:00.002-04:00

If you are not familiar with Lamplighter books then all I can say is you need to be! These books are wonderful! They are so very full of God's truths. We read a chapter each night (actually usually more as they are VERY hard to put down) and right now we are in The Basket of Flowers. The following words spoke straight to my heart tonight.

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart,
and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways
acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths."

A father is imparting wisdom unto his daughter and explains the verse and then talks about what happens when we do not first seek our Heavenly father.

"Indolence and Sloth will whisper to you, perhaps that if you are busy or tired, there is no great harm in omitting your daily prayer, and Presumption will add that you are in no particular peril at that moment. Procrastination will say that another time will do as well as your stated morning hour, and Self-Indulgence will plead for a little less strictness. Evil tempers, murmuring and wandering thoughts will try to distract your attention during prayer, if you cannot be quite hindered from it. When you feel the risings of these evil things within, my child, flee to Jesus".
I'm not sure about anyone else, but I know that this rings true for me. Very sadly so. My quiet time has wavered over the years. It has been so easy for me to feel "too busy" for my time in God's Word. What a crazy thought! It is His Word that I need to get through my crazy and busy days. When I rationalize with myself that I will make time later, I usually end up with a very tired and hurried prayer as I am settling into bed at night after a day that usually has been a roller coaster. Oh, the many times Satan has distracted during my quiet time. Even getting up at an earlier hour has brought its distractions to me. But, this cannot be an excuse to forgo time set aside with the Lord. I crave this time and need this time with Him. My days are not magically perfect when I seek Him first thing. But, they are more focused and I am not as easily apt to fall into temptations throughout the day. It is only through His Word and the fellowship with Him that I am able to get restoration for my soul so that I can go through a day and bring Him glory. Just like a car, you can't run on an empty tank.

Dear Lord,
Please keep me from Indolence, Sloth, Presumption, Procrastination and Self-Indulgence. Let me keep You as my first priority each and every day that You have blessed me with. Help me to "Seek ye first" each morning and not let anything else into my mind before You. Thank you Lord for the privilege to come to You for help and guidance. Amen.

**If you are not familiar with Lamplighter you can find them here.

Boys

2011-06-28T13:46:00.001-04:00

I am grateful for Gods order. I am grateful for His timing. If we had it our way Catherine would have been a boy. Our boy would have come first. But, if our boy was first and not last I would not have been in a place to notice and appreciate just how differently God has truly made us. Of course I know boys are different from girls, I mean I am married! We are made different physically, it's obvious! I'm not sure that all the ways we are different mentally and emotionally are so noticeable though. Especially in the world we live in today where gender roles are blurred so heavily. If I had a boy previous to understanding what God says about our differences I'm not sure that I would have seen all the little things that my little man does just because he is a "boy". I'm pretty sure that I would not have appreciated them. It has fascinated me just in the short span of his life so far just how differently God has wired us. In just 14 short months this is what I have realized about little boys.

Boys play differently. As he was learning to crawl he already knew that cars were to be pushed around the room making noises. When we gave him a Hulk toy he immediately made "grrrr" noises and seemingly battled the two Hulks.
He has no fear! About anything. Doesn't matter how gross, he will touch it. Doesn't matter how high, he will climb it.
There is an attraction to the toilet. Not just to play in the water, but he actually put the toilet brush in it. Getting a head start on learning his chore!
He rolls around and plays with the puppies. Unafraid as the whether or not they will bite or scratch him. And when they get rough he gets up and goes on with life. No drama!
He thinks it is game to pull the puppies ears. He pulls, they grumble, he laughs!
He loves his mommy! My girls loved their momma too, but somehow it is just different. Not sure if it is because he is the first one I have been home full time with or because he is just a boy...
He loves to be outside. Even in the hospital just a couple days old he loved to be by the windows. When just a wee little one that would not settle down all we had to do was step out onto the porch and he would stop crying instantly. Now as a toddler all he wants to do is go outside.
Rocks are a food group! My girls ate a little dirt here and there, and an acorn once or twice, but never rocks. He is drawn to them.
Dirt looks good on boys! He loves to play in the dirt. And the dirt does not stay on the ground, but ends up from one end to the other, in the ears, in the hair and in the diaper.
He wants to figure out how everything works. It is not enough to know that if he puts the ball through the hoop it will make a noise. He wanted to know what exactly about it made the noise. And he figured it out. He figures all things out!
He eats, and eats, and eats! I was warned, but so did not get it. A boy's appetite is much larger from day one.

I know that this list will continue to grow over the years as I take notice of the things that he does differently. Some things frighten me as I think of the future. I had three brothers and know the things that they did. My husband is one of three boys and I have heard all about the things that they have done. I know that Josh will also have his own stories I only hope that they don't grey me too quickly.

Washita Battlefield

2011-05-15T15:18:00.003-04:00

We were keeping an eye out for National Parks & Monuments along the way. We purchased a National Parks pass before our trip as we planned on visiting several places in AZ and it would be more economical to go that way. But, this also opened up many opportunities to make "quick" visits to additional parks along the way. This was also what we used for school while we were on the road. The Jr. Ranger programs are wonderful! Some parks are better than others, but all in all a great wealth of information. I learned so much in working through the books with the girls.

Washita Battlefield was the first National Park that we stopped at. It is located in western Oklahoma about 20 or so miles north of I40. I must add in here how much we loved Oklahoma! Yes, the "breeze" was a bit much at times. But, the temperature was perfect, no humidity and no bugs! It was so beautiful looking out across the site. We pretty much enjoyed everything about Oklahoma. Well everything that we could see from I40.

Walking through the exhibits at the visitor center really brought me great sadness. It just brought to the front of my mind the great evil that existed, and actually still does. So many people died on this one day. And there have been so many days like this. Fortunately the Jr. Ranger book focused more on the Indian culture and not just the battle. I am not sure how much my sensitive girls could have taken at one time.

Here are some pictures from the battle site. Enjoy!

At the trail head they had flip cards to take with you for what became our "mom guided" tour.

I thought these were so cute. They are actually smaller than what they appear in the picture.

Josh really liked the "piggy-back" rides, Dad not so much.

The girls were fascinated with this creek. They all tasted the water (after we told them not to). Apparently it tasted like water!

View from somewhere on the trail. Just breathtaking!

Petit Jean State Park

2011-05-14T20:24:00.003-04:00

We stopped at Petit Jean State Park in Arkansas on Wednesday. It was lunch time and we saw the sign so we traveled about 30 miles off the highway. It was well worth it. The children enjoyed some hands on displays in the visitor center. We then ate lunch and played on the playground. Webb and I got a much needed recharge to our batteries.

Touch table at visitor center

Josh being a ham insteading of eating his ham

The view as we started our hike

Turtle rocks....very neat looking. They really did look like turtle shells!

Family pic at the entrance to the cave. This cave was huge!

We made it!

2011-05-06T22:23:00.004-04:00

We are in ARIZONA! Thankfully we made it all the way. We are tired (and by "we" I mean Webb, my mom and myself). The children are excited. Taking in their new surroundings, enjoying each thing. It is amazing what I can learn if I just pay attention to what they think is important.
We left Henryetta, OK at about 10 on Thursday morning. We had lunch at Washita Battlefield National Historic Site in Cheyenne, OK. We took a "mom guided" tour around the battlefield after lunch and the girls all earned their Junior Ranger Badges. We all learned a lot and had a great time walking around learning some US History and enjoying God's creation.
From there we went to Groom, TX to see the cross. I'm sure a lot of you have heard and/or seen this 19 story cross. It is quite a sight. We walked around the grounds and it actually opened up some great opportunities to speak to the girls about why Christ died on the cross. Sam was very upset at seeing the statues where they nailed Jesus to the cross. She didn't want to leave Him to be hurt. We explained as best we could, but I am sure that there will be many more discussions from this trip.
I drove through half of Texas and half of New Mexico last night. Thank you to all of those who have been praying for our travels. We ended up pulling off at a truck stop and getting a much needed hour and a half of sleep in the wee hours of the morning.
This morning bright and early we were waiting at the gates of the Petrified Forest. What a wonderful morning! The girls earned their Junior Ranger Badges here also. We again did a "mom guided" tour. While reading the signs at each site I had to ad lib some of the information on the spot. There is that rather large discrepancy in just how old the earth really is. All the same we enjoyed the awesome beauty of what the Lord created.
After much driving we finally arrived. Earlier than our check-in time to the house so we went first thing to see my brother. It is very hard for me to see him as the adult that he is now. We have been apart for so many years and I think that is why it is harder than when I look at my other brothers. But, he is my "baby" brother! If the "baby" of the family is an adult then where does that leave me (lol).
This house is an absolute blessing. The Lord has definitely provided for us. We would have ended up in multiple motel rooms with very little privacy. Instead, we have three bedrooms. A full kitchen so that I can still make meals and we do not have to eat out all the time (I so prefer home cooked meals). I feel so undeserving of His kindnesses, but then I am!
Tomorrow my brother graduates from college. Maybe, just maybe, then I will not still look at him as my "baby" brother. Tomorrow I get to see my dad. He will meet my kids, 3 of them for the first time. They will get to meet their "Grandpa Glen" that they always hear about. They will also get to meet their "Great Grandma" who they have only ever heard about and until recently not seen pictures of.
Please pray that our reunion with family tomorrow will be sweet. Please pray that we as a family will be sensitive to His leading throughout our time away from home.

Halfway there

2011-05-05T06:15:00.003-04:00

We made it to Henryetta, Oklahoma last night. I cannot tell you how wonderful it felt to lay on a bed when we walked into the room, and to lay my head on th pillow. Oh, WOW, was it great! Thank you Lord for such small comforts.
So the first leg of our journey was not without issue, but comparitively the issues have been quite minor to the joys that we have expereinced. Apparantly the girls believed me when I told them that whining and fighting would not be tolerated. All three of them have been doing wonderfully! Josh on the other hand did not get the memo. I can't say that I blame him too much. I know it can't be all that comfortable to sleep, eat, play and just sit all strapped in. Mom got sick. She thinks from something she ate, I hope that is all. I am also very thankful that our stop by the side of the road in the wee hours yesterday did not cause a chain reaction with my girls, cause typically their weak stomachs cannot handle it!
We stopped for lunch at Jean Petit State Park in AR. It was a welcome stop! It was about 25 miles off the interstate but the drive was beautiful. Not sure if it is from all the recent rain or not but AR is so green! I mean green, like crayuola green. Anyhow we went up, up, up a mountain to this park. They had a great picnic area with a playground. The kids had so much fun. So did Webb and myself. It was so good to see my hubby playing with the kids. To hear their sqeals as he pushed them higher and higher. To see his smile and hear his chuckle at their enthusiasm. This has been missed lately!
After lunch, we hiked one of their "light" trails. I did not think it was all that light other than the last 100 feet or so. And back up to the car, well suffice it to say I already knew I was out of shape and did not need the reminder. This impromptu lunch was just what I have been praying for. That we would enjoy eachother! Thank you Lord for this time together. It made all the hours of driving worth every second.
It still has not set in that we will be gone for longer than a weekend. My husband thinks I am crazy! It still feels like we are up the road from the home and will be returning soon. I am glad that we are not, but it just hasn't taken it's full effect on me. I tought up until now it was lack of sleep, but I just slept like a baby for about 7 hours. I guess it really doesn't matter how long I feel it is. As long as every moment is enjoying my husband, children and my mom, then every moment, short or long, is going to be great!
We plan to leave sometime bfore 11 today. I am not in a hurry. My husband on the other hand wants to get there. Either way we cannot check into the house until 5pm Friday. There will be more stops along the way. Thank you for your prayers. Please pray that we will make our second half safely as we will not be stopping again until we get there!

Getting Ready

2011-05-03T15:10:00.002-04:00

I am in the middle of preparations. Trying to get things together that should have been together already. As I am typing this my bed is strewn with toiletries, misc. bags, diapers, pull-ups, carriers, cameras, shoes and a bunch of other stuff. The only one completely packed for this trip is my husband! His bag is a small duffel about half the size of mine and I didn't think that I packed all that much.
I feel so out of my box! The last trip that we made was for a weekend and we only had 2 little ones at the time. This time we will be gone for just shy of 2 weeks and we have 4 little bundles to entertain along the way.
I am excited! Very excited! I will get to see my brother who I have not seen in several years. My baby brother who is graduating from college! The only one of us to actually graduate from college! My dad who I have not seen in 8 years. And a grandma that I have not seen in over a decade. I do not feel old enough to use the words "a decade ago", but the truth is the truth. In addition I get to meet some folks that I have not had the pleasure of meeting in person yet.
I am also anxious! I am trying not to be. Moment by moment I am having to hand my anxieties over to my Heavenly Father. And of course am not suprised that He has handled everything so far. So why am I anxious about all that is yet to come when we get out on the road tonight? I know that everything will happen as He has planned.
Our journey will start sometime around 8 tonight. Please say a prayer for us and our travels. Please pray that we will enjoy each other while we travel and once we get to AZ. Prayerfully we will be packed and all ready and the house will be straightened by then.
I am going to try to update daily...maybe....and maybe with pictures. We'll see. Thank you, thank you!

just a litte bird

2010-11-15T21:53:00.002-05:00

It always amazes me what the Lord chooses to use to teach me a lesson. At first, it was just a little bird. But that little red bird taught me a lesson. It took me back to over a year ago when I finally came home to my babies where I should have been all along. It took me back even further to when Webb and I made the decision to home school our children. He took me back to where I needed to be so that He could speak to me. I had gotten to a place where I was just overwhelmed with everything. Being a wife, a mother and a teacher. I wasn't finding the joy in my days that I yearned for. I wasn't finding the joy in each of the children that the Lord has entrusted in my care. "If this is where I am supposed to be, then why is there no joy in it?", was all that I could ask myself. Well I knew that I was where I was supposed. I am to be home taking care of my husband and children. When I was working, this was all that I yearned for. This little bird made me realize that I had the wrong focus. I had been so caught up that day (and previous days) in checking off the boxes of the check list that I missed the opportunities to make joyful moments and memories. I missed opportunities to show my children how much I love and cherish them. How much I want to know them and their interests. I made my checklist my priority.
Since this little bird interrupted our school day a couple weeks back my focus has changed. I still have a checklist, but I give my list to the Lord. I still get a sense of fulfillment out of checking off my boxes. But, I have an overwhelming joy at the end of the day when I can tell my husband about the amazing moments that I have with our children, not just that "we got school done". School is never done in our home. Our lessons go beyond reading, writing and arithmetic and to the hearts. No, I don't keep my focus everyday. And, sometimes I find myself getting caught up in my lists. But, I am a work in progress and at least now I am aware of this fault.
Thank you Lord for sending that little red bird to interrupt our day, to interrupt my life and make me put my focus back on You.

Back to normal

2010-11-02T20:53:00.002-04:00

Back to normal...that is if there is such a thing. It seems like all things that could go away from my plans have over the past month. All four of the children have been sick. I stepped on a nail and then caught the "non-contagious" cough about a week and a half before the 5K I was working towards. Needless to say I was not able to participate. My foot healed beforehand, but last checked it is a necessity to be able to breathe - and that cough just wasn't making that easy. I wasn't happy about the way things turned out. I really wanted to see if I could finish the distance. I knew that I wouldn't have a great finish time and would probably finish last, but I wanted to know that I could do it.
Unfortunately, I must also confess, that for a few moments I was relieved. If I didn't try, then I wouldn't be able to fail. And I was concerned that I would fail - and I didn't like that thought of it at all!
Since all of this (yes, really just excuses - I know) it has been hard for me to get back on track. Back to faithfully walking/jogging. Back to cutting out the sweets that my very deeply rooted sweet tooth craves. Beyond just the weight loss aspects of life I have had a hard time getting back on schedule. Why oh why do we do the things we shouldn't and not do the things we should - especially when we know exactly what we need to do!
I feel as though I am starting over which is somewhat discouraging. But, I would rather be starting over again rather than giving up completely. With this update I humbly ask that you would pray that I would find the willpower to start back fresh in the approaching week and stay strong, running this race with endurance with Him he gives me all my strength. Thank you!

Pondering....

2010-09-12T15:27:00.003-04:00

It always amazes me how God coincides things in my life. Things that really don't necessarily have much to do with each other. As you know I am on a weight loss journey (among the many other things I am working on). But I have also started a Bible study on having a heart like Jesus. While pondering and mulling over some questions in the study I couldn't help but to relate my christian walk to my weight loss.

When we become believers in Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells us. We are made new! God loves me and wants all of my heart. Fortunately He shows me what I need to change in steps. I am so thankful that He does not throw the full book of what I need to change to have Jesus' heart. What an overwhelming feet! Just sitting here in this moment a mountain of things flood to mind and I am sure that in His mercy He has not shown me everything yet. But I need to focus on what He has shown me and one step at a time, moment by moment, day by day - follow Him!

Now how this is related to my weight loss. To look at the overall of what I need to lose is overwhelming! Yeah, people do it, it can be done. But at a couple pounds a week it seems like it will take forever. But if step by step, moment by moment, day by day, I make the choices necessary I can and will do it.

Update: This past week I did not get on the treadmill as often as planned. However, I did make choices to move more - sometimes to my disadvantage. I have lost the pound that I gained last week. This week I plan to make the necessary choices in every moment. What I will eat, how far I will walk, what I will fill my time with, what I will watch, what I will read, what I will say, what I will think, and Who I will let rule my heart!

Reason

2010-09-08T23:09:00.003-04:00

I have been pondering why I am trying to lose this weight. Mainly while I am walking/jogging on the treadmill. I used to read a book while walking, but with the increased speed it doesn't work out so well. (Actually it barely worked before as my coordination is not that great on a treadmill.) So lately I have used my time walking to talk with God and reflect, making it productive in more than one way. I have decided thus far that my main reason is because I just don't want to feel achy! I have always had back problems (lifting heavy things as a pre-teen/teen was not a great idea) but additional weight has definitely made it worse. I would also really, and I mean REALLY, like for my left leg get back to some sort of normal. Yes, doctors have told me that it is messed up forever and will always have residual issues. But, I still have hope that maybe one day my left calf and foot will more resemble my right.
Now of course there are other reasons that swim through my mind....fit into clothes, be able to be more active with my kids and husband for that matter! I hate feeling like I am holding them up when we go out on excursions with lots and lots of activity. I am usually behind them "catching up". I am realizing though that it is not a total lack of ability, but more a lack of the will - which I think is much worse!
So here is to conciously making an effort to move more each and every day and not be a sluggard. Get up and keep up!
Update: I walked/jogged 1.5 miles and kept up with my average speed of 3.3 mph.

19 and counting...

2010-09-04T17:34:00.004-04:00

Counting down that is! Unfortunately not in weight loss. I actually gained a pound, exactly! But, I have learned over the years that I cannot get down on myself about it, but get up and learn from it and do better this week. That is what I plan to do, as well as relish in cutting a minute off of my mile time - that would be the counting down.
My goals for this week...
have a weight loss of some sort
focus on endurance and work up to 2 miles in whatever amount of time
and just enjoy and keep at it!

Journey to...

2010-09-04T00:06:00.002-04:00

Journey to ....

health.........

weight loss...........

and who knows what else

So the journey has started and stopped so many times over the years that I don't think I could really count how many times if I tried. So starting again I cannot help but think that this is going to end up like the numerous times in the past, not that all were failed attempts - but I am back where I started. What was missing each time? That is really what I need to answer to be successful. I also need to figure out why I really want it.

I am in week two. Week one was great with a loss of over 6 pounds. Not sure that this week will be as rewarding, I will find out Sunday morning. Wondering even more if I will do it this time. With all the health issues I have had in the past 5 months I don't really have a choice. So if you are interested I will keep my loss (or gain) and the answers to my questions posted.

Knowing I am blessed

2010-05-18T22:47:00.003-04:00

There has been a lot going on here over the last few months. But all the recent fuss actually started just over a year ago when my husband and I returned home from a marriage conference the first weekend in May. It was then that we started praying and asking the Lord to bless us with another child, specifically a boy. We found out at the end of July that we were expecting again. I knew right away that this was an answer to prayer and that we would have a little boy in nine months. When it came time for the ultrasound it was confirmed that I was carrying a little boy!

The pregnancy went well other then the typical morning sickness, being tired, etc...until the last month that is. I began having severe pain in my legs. Then the Tuesday before I had him my left leg began to swell severely. We went to the hospital Thursday night after talking with the doctor with the intent of being induced the next day, which was actually my due date (March 26th). Well I started to go into labor that morning myself, but it was sped up a little bit. Anyhow, dealing with the contraction pain was much easier than dealing with the pain in my left leg - this is no exaggeration! We got to the delivery at 1:01 that afternoon and said our first hellos to our answered prayer.

Shortly after the delivery it was discovered that I had a "massive" blood clot - as the nurse put it. A deep vein clot that runs from my knee to just above my pelvic bone. As the doctors told me several times I was "lucky to be alive". It was also said that we were "lucky" to have our baby boy as he had a knot in his cord. Well, we don't believe in "luck"

We prayed for Joshua for over a month before he was conceived. The Lord was over his conception. He was in control during the pregnancy. He was over and in control of everything that happened during the delivery, including the clot not breaking off and being carried off to my lungs or brain. I know without a doubt that it is all in the Lord's will that both Joshua and I are here today. I knew that I was blessed before all of this. But, sometimes I get so wrapped up in the day to day that I forget how truly blessed I am. I sometimes forget that God is in control of everything that happens to me - good and bad.

The past two months as I go to doctors and have tests run and pray daily for healing, I reflect on just how many blessings the Lord has given me. So many of which I often take for granted. I know I could have died, and according to doctors probably should have. But I also know that I am blessed and God has another plan for me right now.

Joshua was born on March 26th 2010 at 1:01 pm.

He was 7 lbs. 11 oz. and 21 inches long

Resolve or not to resolve

2010-01-05T22:40:00.002-05:00

With the New Year having come along I have been thinking about "resolutions". About past resolutions and the thought of possibly making some this year. Well my thoughts about past resolutions are that I don't think that I have really ever kept any of them, at least never for very long or until the "goal" was reached. So frankly what is the purpose of setting resolutions in the first place. Goals are great, but with my track record I think that I would be setting up for more failure. But I have been praying about what the Lord would have me do in the coming year. Well then it hit me...well nothing really hit me except that the Lord. Anything that I would resolve myself to do would be what He has already asked me to do. My desires for the year are to grow closer to my Heavenly Father. To reach a deeper level of intimacy with my Savior and King! To be a better wife. More understanding to the needs of my husband. To be a true "help mate" to him and not a hindrance. To be his "good thing". A better mother to my children. To have more patience and understanding with them. To treasure each moment that God has given me with them and use it to the fullest capacity possible. Not to be selfish with "my" time. Learn to be a true homemaker. To make the home the Lord has provided us into a haven for my husband and children and not a place of chaos and clutter. Then to extend myself into the fellowships that the Lord would have me seek outside of my home. I somehow cannot come to make this my "New Year's Resolution" though. As this is not a desire of my heart for just this year or a couple of years, but this is the desire of my heart for my lifetime. I desire to seek Him and obey! not just today but for all the days that He has appointed for me.

On the First Day of 1st Grade

2009-08-20T20:20:00.002-04:00

We started school today! It is still hard to believe that Catherine is already at the "schooling" age. We are using My Fathers World again this year as we were pleased with Kindergarten and are looking forward to all that this curriculum offers. Unfortunately our school day did not get off to the start that I had hoped and planned for. My calendar still isn't ready (oh well) - I did however have everything I needed for the lessons today. There is a rule to Homeschooling - I'm not sure if anyone has ever written on it - I am sure some wise person has, as I have heard it over and over again. "Do not plan anything in day during lesson time." (ie. appointments, errands, etc.) If you do it is so hard to get back to "school". Well my nurses visit to confirm pregnancy was this morning at 10 - right in the middle of the school day. With God's help we prevailed this afternoon and stuck to the plan that we mapped out for our "school" days. We completed her lessons and had fun together reading afterward.

I truly am looking forward to this year being able to enjoy the time and not feeling rushed to get through lessons so that I can go to work. God has done wonderful things for our family this summer. I am home! My husband got a job 2 weeks before my last day - making almost to the dollar what we figured was needed for our monthly expenses. God grew our faith in the process of getting me home. He is good indeed! Now that I have learned my place in this great big world - thanks to preaching and teaching straight from Gods Word, the Lords conviction and encouraging moms at church - I have some new lessons to learn. Like how to balance teaching Catherine, having fun and enjoying all 3 girls, getting the house in some sort of order and keeping it that way (I can't stand housework) and getting some rest as I am tired most of the day right now (fortunately sickness isn't too bad right now). Just to name a few -- any suggestions. :)

Proud Wife

2009-07-21T19:46:00.008-04:00

While I was in Atlanta leaning all about the new product lines for PartyLite
(just a teaser)

my wonderful hubby was home with the girls! This is his third year with them on his own and he is always so willing to let me go for the week. This year he surprised me a bit more than usual. Normally I come home to a nicely put back together house. This year it looked the same (if not worse) - but NO complaints from me. They had an amazing time together. Now he didn't take them all over SC by himself (his mom did go with him) but just the same amazed that he even thought about it.

On Thursday he took them to Hampton Plantation. Which was actually built by the Horry Family however many hundreds of years ago.

Then on Friday he tried to take them to Cypress Gardens but ended up downtown Charleston because they got there too close to closing.

Still ready to go out yet again - they all went to the beach on Saturday. Which I must confess he got in trouble for as it was Samantha's first time. Fortunately for him he got some really good pictures!

And better than all of this...he got them up Sunday morning and was 3 minutes early to church!

So as much as I know that I shouldn't brag...I just cannot help bragging on him this year! The girls loved the time that they spent together with there Daddy and were waking up each morning asking where they were going to go today! And even though they were having a great week while I was away (and no we really don't do all this fun stuff on a regular basis as we would like to) it overjoyed my heart when Catherine flew out the door to greet me, Sammy Lynn wouldn't stop saying "my mommy" and jumped into my arms, and Becca cheerfully awoke from her not long enough nap to snuggle me. It didn't hurt that my hubby was happy to see me too! And yes I was more than ready to be back to them!

Where have I been?

2009-07-06T21:53:00.003-04:00

So I just foud this "new" quilt shop not even 5 mintues from the house. Turns out not so new, has been around for almost 2 years. Where have I been.....oh yeah, way too busy doing way more than I should be. I have enjoyed the time home with my babies so far. I definitely think that I have more than enough to keep my busy at home for those who thought I wouldn't. And my house is getting back to some sort of order (its about time)

Tuckered Toddler

2009-06-21T14:52:00.002-04:00

Webb and I got home one night from a night out alone (few and far between these days) and little Sam had fallen asleep on Cat's bed. Just too cute not to snap a photo.

To hang or not to hang...

2009-06-04T07:46:00.003-04:00

I saw a post not long ago about hanging clothes out on the line instead of putting them in the dryer. Well it got me thinking and talking with some friends. Now that I will be home (only 19 days left) I think this is something I might do. With Summer coming(feels like its here already) I know the electric bill is going up with the AC running all the time so I figure this might cut back on the bill ~ yes I know not enough to compensate for the extra time on the AC but it should help. I have been asking my hubby for a couple months for the clothes line and here it is. He is a contractor and everything he builds is the best that he can make it ~ hence the anchors tying it down. I don't think it is going anywhere for awhile.

End of Year One!

2009-05-30T22:21:00.007-04:00

Well we made it through our first year of Homeschooling. Yes, I know it was only Kindergarten, but still, we were both new at it. I have learned that it doesn't have to be like the public schools, that our school is flexible and is focused on my children's needs. I am looking forward to next year already. Mainly looking forward to giving my children the time that they deserve and not having to cut things short to run off to work. (June 30th is coming quick.) I am also looking forward to the CHEC Conference next weekend now that I will have a better idea of what I am looking at.

Here is a picture of my little graduate.

The Saturday before her graduation she had her first ballet recital. Needless to say May was pretty busy.

1 Corinthians 13, for Mothers

2009-05-19T22:15:00.002-04:00

I have been reading (and re-reading) A Mother's Heart by Jean Fleming. The subtitle is A look at values, vision, and character for the Christian mother. I have really learned a lot from it and have been trying to apply it. It is a little overwhelming, but biblical and practical ~ I keep reminding myself to take it in baby steps (hence why I have to re-read it). Well I am about mid-way through the book and this struck a cord with me. I will be printing and putting up several copies for myself. At the end she challeges readers to meditate on it and rewrite it for themselves. I may or may not get there....but here is her paraphrase.

If I keep my house immaculately clean, and am envied by all for my interior

decorating, but do not show love in my family~I'm just another housewife.

If I'm always producing lovely things~sewing, art; if I always look attractive,

and speak intelligently, but am not loving to my family~I am nothing.

If I'm busy in community affairs, teach Sunday school, and drive in

the carpool but fail to give adequate love to my family~I gain nothing.

Love changes diapers, cleans messes, and ties shoes~over and over again.

Love is kind, though tired and frazzled.

Love doesn't envy another wife~one whose children are "spaced"better,

or in school so she has time to pursue her own interests.

Love doesn't try to impress others with my abilities or knowledge as a mother.

Love doesn't scream at the kids.

Love doesn't feel cheated because I didn't get to do what I wanted to do today~

sew, read, soak in the hot tub.

Love doesn't lose my temper easily.

Love doesn't assume that my children are being naughty

just because their nose level is irritating.

Love doesn't rejoice when other people's children misbehave and make mine look good.

Love is genuinely happy when others are honored by their children.

What if?

2009-05-18T22:22:00.003-04:00

Do you ever wonder "What if?" I do. I don't know if it is right or wrong to wonder, but I confess that I do. What if I had never moved to SC, what if my first "love" had loved me back, what if I had focused on college instead of the guy I met while there? Believe me it keeps going on from there. It seems that one question leads into so many more. But the one big question that I always end up at is would I have come to know my Savior if everything didn't happen as it did. You see, had I not left CA or if it had actually "worked" out with the guy back home then I would have never met my husband. He was/is the guy I met while in college. Needless to say I spent a good bit of my time with him. I may have "met" him from CA, but probably never had made the first date. You see, we actually met online at good 'ole Yahoo! We started chatting in November of 2000. Our first date was Jan 5th 2001. Engaged March 31st and married November 17th 2001.
It was through my husband stepping out of his box that we came to CBC of Beaufort in November of 2004. And it was here that I heard and really understood the Gospel for the first time. I have always loved the Lord (at least as long as I can remember), but never really understood what He did or what it meant to be a Christian.
After learning things about people and things from back home (CA) I don't really see how I would have come to truly know Christ if I had never moved. Not to say it wouldn't have happened since with God nothing is impossible. What I do see is God's hand over my life and bringing me to Him.
Like I said, I'm not sure if it is biblical to ask What if?, but I must say it makes me grateful every time I do. Grateful that God has always been watching over me, drawing me to Him, and working things out for my own good (even when I didn't see it at the time). I am grateful for the many blessing that He has given me along the way, especially for my husband and three girls.

~ If you would like to know God personally click here ~

New Additions to a New Venture

2009-05-07T21:31:00.005-04:00

Not many know, but we don't keep the "normal" kind of pets. We have had goats since our oldest (child) was a baby (~6 years). We started with 2 and had 6 (until last week as our herdsire Phillip passed). Below is our original herd. Chelsea is the momma. Stephen & Briar Rose were born March 2008 and Edward & Lilly were born in October 2008. Chelsea is expecting anytime now. They are Pygmy/Nubian crosses.

As we are approaching the day that I will be home full-time ~ my husband is working to find ways to provide (as he has just started his own construction business after he was laid off last fall). So what does this have to do with goats you are asking??? We are going into the Goat Business. Surprisingly there is quite a market for it. This is where our new additions come in. Our Pygmy babies are just not suited for making big babies or good for milking. So here is the start to our "business" herd.

Lilly Pie, originally Lilly, but we had a Lilly and didn't want to give her a new name. She really isn't for the "business" herd. She is like a puppy dog. She follows you around in the yard when we let her out. She wasn't part of the original sale, but when picking up the other two, she came home too. She is a Norwegian Dwarf.

Dottie is a Nubian/Saanen. She is our first Doe. The people we got her from think she might be expecting - she looks like it but I guess we will find out in about a month or so. She is a bit timid so we are working with her and taking our time with her so she will learn to trust us.

Teeny is Dottie's first baby. She is solid black which I have never seen. Her daddy was a full blooded Nubian. She also is timid, a bit more than Dottie. So again we will be working with her. Feed is a great tool to work with to get them to trust us.

As you can see, we are in the very beginning stages of this new endeavour. Not sure how I feel about it yet. My husband is confident and I am choosing to trust his judgement. I am excited and but a little nervous at the same time. The girls and I will be the ones taking care of their daily needs. Which I don't mind at all ~ I love our goats! I'm nervous about the whole "milking" thing. I am sure that once we get it all figured out it will become routine and be okay. I've never milked anything before though. I also am not sure how settled I will be with selling them knowing that they are going to be "meat" and not "pets". So this is our new adventure that we will be taking on as a family and with much prayer.

Quilt of Holes

2009-04-20T23:03:00.002-04:00

I got this in an e-mail today and it really made me think.

As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls.Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life.But as my angel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all.I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened.My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air.Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me,and nodded for me to rise.My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also been trials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been held up to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up to the Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin be neath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me.And now, I had to face the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was.I rose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light. An awe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes.Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes,creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, 'Every time you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles..Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you.'May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through!

How often do I move over and let Christ take the reigns? What would my quilt look like with how I am living today? What changes do I need to make to be more holey?

He is Risen!

2009-04-13T19:56:00.004-04:00

We continued in the week with The Crucifixion and how God worked it all to happen just as He said. We counted out 30 pieces of silver and talked about Judas and his betrayal of Jesus. We also had our own Seder Meal. Our niece came over and joined in for it. The preparation of it I don't think was "kosher" but it was good and meaningful. We talked about the meaning of each item according to Jewish custom, but also talked about the significance in relation to our Lord and Savior and how Christ was the ultimate Lamb sacrifice.

We had Lamb and Rosemary & Garlic Potatoes. On our Seder plate there was a Hard Boiled Egg, Parsley, Salt Water, Horseradish, Charoset and Matzo. The Lamb was a bit dry, but tasty -- I think I cooked it too long in the crock pot. This was the first time any of us had ever had lamb. We all enjoyed the Matzo bread and my girls like salt (not a good thing I know) so the Parsley in the salt water didn't bother them. The Horseradish on the other hand did not go over too well. Our niece tried to get some down, but my husband was the only one to complete that feet. The charoset was delicious! Here are some pics of our meal.

Saturday turned out to be a very busy day. Typical for me - I plan too much into the day and then wonder why I get grumpy when I can't fit it all in. Only I don't wonder anymore. I am trying to learn from this and balance my days around what I should be doing, but I struggle. With that said there were many positives out of the day. I was finally able to do an idea that I found in Homespun Memories for the Heart that I was anxiously waiting for. They are called Resurrection Cookies. The ingredients are simples, 1 c. whole pecans, 1 tsp. white vinegar, 3 large egg whites, pinch of salt & 1 c. white sugar. Each instruction includes scripture to reflect on The Crucifixion. We beat the pecans with a wooden spoon and talked about how the soldiers beat and mocked Jesus. Then we smelled and tasted the vinegar and talked about how that is what they gave Him to drink. The eggs represented that Jesus willingly gave up His life to bring us new life. Salt represents the salty tears of His followers. Then the sugar is the "sweetest part of the story."

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life" John 3:16

Whip it up, and it turns a nice white, representing those who have been cleansed from their sin. Fold in the beaten pecans and then drop heaping spoonfuls on a wax paper lined baking sheet. When putting them in the oven you turn it off and then tape the oven closed (like sealing the tomb). In the morning they should be done. I say should because ours were not (I had to bake them on 200 for like 30 min.) I had something cooking right before so I didn't follow the heating directions as closely. Once baked they are hollow inside, just like the tomb was empty because He is Risen! They are also absolutely delicious, as long as you like pecans. I didn't get a picture of the cookies, they went quite fast. But next time.

Holy Week (and it's not over yet)

2009-04-09T22:34:00.005-04:00

What a wonderful week we have had...and it's not over yet. This is the first year that we have really taken the time to be in the Word as a family and really reflect on what this week is all about. Thanks to the wealth of ideas posted by Monica and ideas in Homespun Memories for the Heart it has been an exciting week in which we have learned so much! So here is our week so far...

"Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!"

John 12:13

Webb cut palm branches and we read from our Read and Learn Bible. Then we laid our jackets and blankets down on the floor and waved our palm branches shouting "HOSANNA!" The girls had a lot of fun with it. We talked about how excited we would be if Jesus had walked in and walked across the path that we made for him.

"Then He poured water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples feet

and to wipe them with the towel with which he was girded."

John 13:5

"If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet,

you also ought to wash one another's feet.

For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you"

John 13:14-15

Day 2: We washed each others feet! I actually enjoyed it and know that Cat and Sam had fun (Becca wasn't feeling well, but did want her feet washed). Webb even let me use my "smelly" sugar scrub on his feet! They had way too much fun with my feet...very ticklish feet and they all know it.

I will try to post the rest tomorrow, but still need to finish my Easter dress, so we will see. But, will get it up. How are you spending your week?

Putting off the old

2009-03-19T22:00:00.002-04:00

If indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in

Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to

your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self,

which is being corrupted in accordance

with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the

spirit of your mind, and that you be renewed in the

spirit of your mind, and put on the new self,

which in the likeness of God has been created in

righteousness and holiness of the truth."

Ephesians 4:21-24

It is so tough to lay aside my old self at times. But, with Christ all things are possible! As I am made more aware of his truths I must choose to obey or not to. I have done the "not to" so many times in the last 4 and a half years and have found that it is so much easier to just obey the first time. Growing pains are rough at times, however, I am grateful for them. It is through them that I grow closer to my heavenly Father.

I'm sure you have guessed by now that we are going through some growing in our home right now. In the past 7 and a half years my hubby and I have made quite a video collection for ourselves. God has been working on both of us and we are both to a point where we know we have to do something about it. Recently at Mothering from the Heart marathon (www.mfth.org) Audrey said "If you don't want your kids to find it - don't have it in the home". There is so much truth to this, even in the best hiding places, or when you relax for a moment and forget.?. Well, I have rationalized that "I don't let my children watch them". But, if my children can't watch it why should I let the filth enter my mind and home. What we fill our minds and hearts with, is what comes out. We are weeding out our "great" collection. There were 30 that right away we both agreed could go in the "out" pile, and have stacks left to weed through. But what to do with them. Do we sell them or at least give them away, or toss them? Should we be the facilitators of filth entering someone else's mind? It is so hard to see so much money literally be thrown out. It frightens me how far away from God and His plan that we all are when left to our flesh.

So, what would you do with them?

Happy Birthday to me!

2009-03-15T22:27:00.004-04:00

Actually it was yesterday but I'm just now getting around to writing about it. It was not quite as eventful as birthdays when I was a kid. They never seem to be anymore. The last one that a fuss was made over was 18 (I didn't do the whole "21" thing). These years they just seem to come and go like about everyother day, with the added benefit of dinner out. This one has definietly made memorable. It really was a great day depending on what perspective you take. I must say last year I wouldn't have looked on it all with such optimism.
It started with breakfast with Belle and Cinderalla at Chick-fil-a. And of course my three most precious princesses were there to enjoy it with me. I even talked my hubby into coming and being our photographer for the morning. We made tiaras and the girls had their nails painted. Then they played in the Princess Bounce House. It was some very enjoyable girl time.

After breakfast we went to Michaels. I haven't been there in quite sometime. I reserved myself, it was difficult! When cleaning out my craft room a couple weeks ago I realized just how much scrapbooking supplies I have and that I do not need anything until I finish my projects and use some of what I have. So I actually avioded the scrapbooking aisle. Of course I looked at the end racks, and put somethings in the buggy, but pulled them back out before we checked out. I ended up with some picture frames (for a wall that I have been planning for about a year now) and goodies for the girls of course.

Now here is where the perspective comes in. Browsing in one of my favorite stores and I start feeling really ill. Put off some other stops that we had planned (really wanted to get a pair of shoes), and went home. Ended up with a temp of 100.8. My good hubby put me to bed with some aspirin. Woke up about 3 hours later and was feeling good again. Before I really would have gotten upset about it as it completely blew "my" plans out of the water. But I really have been lacking on rest and it forced me to get some. Not to mention, and much as I wanted them, I don't need new shoes.

My hubby (and mother-in-law) then surprised me with dinner. She watched the kids and we took a drive to Savannah and went to Olive Garden (another one of my favorites). I must say I was shocked with the 55 minute wait. Especially when she said that it was a slow Saturday. Eeek! But we used the time to go across the street to Lifeway Christian bookstore. Passed it many times, but never been in. Love it! Has been more than 10 years since I have been in a store like it (back home in Cali). Supper was wonderful. Delicious and filling. The time spent with the girls in the morning and my hubby in the evening made it perfect family day. I really couldn't come up with a better way to have spent my 29th b-day.

What was your most memorable birthday?

The Life of a Ballerina

2009-03-10T21:22:00.003-04:00

It is very hard to accept that your first baby is actually growing up. I knew it was going to happen, and happening, but it just dawned on me about 2 weeks ago. Catherine is 6, yes I know only 6. But as my oldest each year seems to go by faster and faster and she seems to get older more quickly than I ever imagined. And having been working away from the home for her whole life I know that she has not always had my best. I'm sure all this thinking is coming about now that I am focusing my thoughts and energies on preparing to be a worker at home. I cannot help but to wonder where she would be at if I had been home with her, giving her the best hours of my days. God is wonderful though, he makes beauty out of the mess of flesh. We do have a few discipline struggles, but for the most part she obeys. She likes to help out around the house, most of the time. She takes care of her younger sisters. She loves to sing and dance. She has been in dance for about 9 months now, but even before then she would twirl around the living room to her own beat. She is very independent (which is where the discipline struggle comes in). The best thing about her is that somewhere in all of this time she has learned about God and our Savior Jesus Christ. I am so thankful for our church and the bible school teachers and AWANA. A real beauty in all of this was last Thursday when my little six year old "baby" shared about Jesus with one of my moms neighbors.

She shared Acts 16:31

"Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved."

She was excited! She was not ashamed! She was not afraid!

The smile on her face when I got there to pick her up was amazing. She knew she had done something good. She cannot wait to talk to the woman again. There is definitely something to "childlike faith". She is very loving and wants to do what she can to take care of others.

A very scary realization that I have made recently is that my little girl is a lot like me. Which is even more reason for me to be a good and godly model. But, she is also not like me. It is for those things about her that I am even more grateful. Grateful that I can learn from her over the years to come and I pray help her to keep as she grows.

2009-03-09T23:34:00.002-04:00

I have been following this blog for a month or so now and the posts are truly eye opening. I am really looking forward to this week and all the information on dressing modestly. With three girls I strive to model for them how to be modest, but it is hard to be trendy and modest all at the same time. Looking forward to learning more...follow the link and see the wealth of information on dressing modestly. BTW - did I mention there are giveaways.

http://sahmissionary.blogspot.com

The Farm Chicks Giveaway....

2009-03-03T22:18:00.002-05:00

The Farm Chicks are doing a giveaway...a surprise that is sure to be GREAT...

http://thefarmchicks.typepad.com/farmchicks/2009/02/surprise.html

Not soon enough

2009-02-27T21:59:00.004-05:00

Okay, so I am still working my j-o-b. But, I have to wonder why. I don't get paid when I am supposed to and quite frankly my heart just isn't in it. My heart is torn out of me every time I have to leave my babies to go have people yell at me all day about why their orders are so ridiculously late. I truly am counting down the days, only 4 months, actual work days are only 70. I guess I shouldn't say "only" since 70 is a lot, but there is an end in sight.
I just had to complete our 2nd progress report for Kindergarten, due tomorrow. Catherine has been doing well. I look forward to next year and being home with her & her sisters all day so that we can do so much more. She has surprised me so much with everything that she has learned. Children really are little sponges. I also just completed our family page for the yearbook, it is supposed to sum up our Homeschool year, I wanted to use a Bible verse, however my verse knowledge is still in the primary stages and growing at a much slower pace than my little sponges is. But, I did find a quote in my scrapbook stuff that I think summed it up well.

While we try to teach our children all about life,

our children teach us what life is all about.

~ Angela Schwindt

A new persective on the Rat Race...

2009-02-24T22:45:00.002-05:00

Okay, so this morning I was listening to Alistair Begg on WAGP and the whole "rat race" thing became clear. It is not so much the need to make time for the "important" treasures, but to find the moments in the middle of the race.

"And we know that God causes all things to work

together for good to those who love God, to those

who are called according to His purpose."

Romans 8:28

He is in control of where I am every second of the day. So when I am seeking after His will - when my will is that of the Lord's - then I am not in a "rat race" but in His will, fulfilling His purposes. My focus is on Him and and conforming my will to his. Which means a lot of checks and balances throughout the day of my flesh...

The Countdown Begins...

2009-02-04T23:13:00.002-05:00

It has been a very hectic past few months. My oldest is now 6 and my middle child is 3, oh me, time is going by way too quickly! All followed up by my youngest turning 1 in October. eek!

So the countdown started yesterday. I gave notice and my last day working outside of my home will be June 30th. Yes a long notice...but I felt like it was necessary. Even more necessary is for me to take on my God given role to raise up my children in the way they should go. I am excited and yet nervous. I am coming home to be a worker in my home - to the most important job that I could ever do! I definitely don't want to mess it up. So not only is the long notice for my current boss, but also so that I can prepare myself for all that awaits me. Things will definitely be changing in our household, but I am sure that they will all be for the better so long as we keep our gaze on Him.

The Rat Race

2008-10-21T22:26:00.002-04:00

Does it ever feel like you're in a rut??? I sure feel like one lately. It is such a shame that so much of life is just a big built in routine that leaves no time for the things that truly matter. You have to get out of your box and take a step away from the routine and make the time for those things (or more importantly ~ people) that really matter. Where are the real treasures of life? Surely not the gold and silver that are stored up on this earth ~ those seem to not matter much especially in our current day with economic crisis. The true treasures are those that are not always tangible ~ the ones that are stored up in Heaven. The lessons that we teach our children, the time spent with a loved one, or more importantly a stranger, those times that we are furthering the work of our Lord and Savior ~ these are the true treasures of life! It is to unfortunate that life gets in the way of this. The life of routine, the rat race! So, as you have probably guessed that it what my mind has dwelt on lately ~ the need to spend time and energy on the important, meaningful treasures of life.

Godly Living

2008-10-10T23:03:00.002-04:00

So what does Godly living mean for a woman? That is the answer that I am searching for. Our last women's group we looked at 1 Peter 3:1-6. 2"as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior...4 but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God." I've since been thinking on the "gentle and quiet spirit". Does this apply to me? I don't think that it does. I feel lately as though I am the opposite ~ quick to get riled up and loud about anything that doesn't fit the way I think it should. And after all, the mouth speaks that which is in the heart. So how to get a gentle and quiet spirit...any ideas are welcomed. I'm sure that the Lord will be teaching me much in the coming months while listening to the teaching of Pastors Wife. Until then I will turn my eyes to Him, (try to) sit back and let His plan unfold, and be content with whatever that plan is (even when it doesn't fit my way). After all, He knows all and is in control of all.

My start to this BLOG thing...

2008-10-08T23:29:00.002-04:00

I am completely new to this whole concept of Blogging. I have kept up to date with many others, so now it is my time to keep friends near and far up to date on whats going on in our family. Warning, I'm not sure how regular the posts will be :)

I am wife to one and mother to three. I am learning what it means to be a Biblical Woman. I am in a season of life where I yearn to know what God says my role is as a help mate to my husband and a mother to my three beautiful girls. As I learn more, I am faced with more difficult decisions to put off the world and put on God's best. But as I have learned long before I was a believer, the right things are rarely the easiest.

I look forward to whatever this may open up, and hope that everyone reading enjoys! Here's to the start of my blog!