Another Reason I'm Loving My NYR!

I was just reading about what we put in and on our bodies and thought this was quite interesting. I've never really thought about these things, but I do want to be wise in how I take care of my family and myself, so as I read and learn I want to bring it to the Lord and see what I can do and should do to help our family!

The ironic part is that most people will think twice about swallowing something they believe to be dangerous, but people slather toxic chemicals all over their skin and inhale their fumes without a second thought.

Let's consider methods of possible toxin exposure...since many people are ill-informed on how you can be poisoned. Inhalation: When you inhale a chemical, it goes directly from the lungs to the bloodstream; this is the worst exposure you can receive as there is no filtration whatsoever - you will receive a full dose. Skin Absorption: The next most dangerous way to be exposed to chemicals is through skin application. Your skin is an organ and although it creates somewhat of a barrier, it is easily penetrated and chemicals will go directly into the bloodstream from what is absorbed through the skin.Ingestion: Lastly, ingestion is another way chemicals invade your body - but with swallowing a chemical, your body has more defenses set up to deal with it, such functions are provided for by your liver and kidneys.

(This is from an article on wickless candles from ecosafereviews.blogspot.com)

NYR Organics

I am so excited about this product I was recently introduced to! In fact, in a few weeks, I'll be having a couple of fun pampering parties to introduce family and friends to it, but until then, I wanted to post my webpage so you can check it out! Please let me know if you want to order any of the products and I'll be happy to order them for you and get them to you as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please let me know and I will give you all the info you need!

NYR has been Britain's most respected, award winning, certified organic product line for 30 years! They only us organic and natural ingredients. I love that not only do they have women's skin care products, but also products for babies and men. What I am most excited about is that they are launching a cosmetic line come 2012! As I think of my three little girls growing up, I am becoming more aware of what we put on and in our body and believe this affordable organic product is a great product to introduce into their little lives!

Here is the link to my web page. Please check it out and find out for yourself why I am excited about this product!

More Truth.

"...It is not for the flock of sheep to know the pasture the shepherd has in mind. It is for them simply to follow him. If they knew his plans included a valley of deep shadow, they would panic. Keeping close to the one they have learned to trust is all that is necessary. He will faithfully provide rest, refreshment, correction and protection as the needs arise. His accompanying presence is guaranteed, all the way - even through the darkest shadows - to the house of the Lord." - Elisabeth Elliot

"Healing is in Your Hands"

by: Christy Nockels

No mountain, no valley, no gain or loss we know
could keep us from Your love
No sickness, no secret, no chain is strong enough
to keep us from Your love
to keep us from Your love

How high, how wide
No matter where I am, healing is in Your hands
How deep, How strong,
And now by Your grace I stand, healing is in Your hands

Our present, our future, our past is in Your hands
We're covered by Your blood
We're covered by Your blood

How high, How wide
no matter where I am, healing is in Your hands
How deep, How strong
And now by Your grace I stand, healing is in Your hands

First Day of School - 2011!

Today we embarked on our third year of home schooling. We began the day with donuts - a first day of school tradition! Vacationing the week before school started was a great idea, and I was really excited about coming home and jumping into a routine and spending time with the girls. I'm also very aware of my need for the Lord to help me teach and train up these little girls! I'm looking forward to seeing how this year unfolds and what all we learn.

Sydney started kindergarten today and did amazing! She did so much better than I thought she would and her favorite subject today was reading. We'll see what it is tomorrow!

My favorite "Sydney-ism" today was when we were talking about the creation story in the Bible and what God created on the different days. She stopped me and asked me what it was like when God created the clouds. I asked her what she meant and she very matter of fact asked me what I was thinking when God created the clouds - since I was there. I asked her how old she thought I was. She said "four-hundred-ish". Oh my, I know the thirties have brought a few wrinkles with them, but really - "four-hundred-ish"?!?!

Reagan began 2nd grade and we are adding some subjects like history and science this year. Oh, and piano!! She loved history - which is really good, because so do I. She told me her wrist was so sore from writing today - I didn't tell her today was an easy day!! =) I loved that when they went outside to play after school, they made a ship (the "Santa Maria") out of an old trailer back in the yard and were playing like they were Admiral Prissy Pants and Admiral Josephina answering to Christopher Columbus!!

And Jordyn, well, she's a little magna doodle obsessed these days. So she just spent hours drawing by herself! I'll take it while it lasts!

I'm aware of my inadequacies. I'm also aware that God's grace is way greater. For that I am so grateful. If I focus on myself, quickly I get anxious. If I focus on the Lord and His faithfulness, I am able to trust that He is more than enough and He gives wisdom when we seek Him. So, hopefully as we set out on a new year of schooling, we will find ourselves seeking Him more and knowing Him better!

VaCatIon 2011!

Seeing Mama-Vero Beach-beautiful-sand castles-fun snacks-playing in the ocean-Reagan on the boogey board-Jordyn twirling in the water-Sydney splashing in the waves-Sydney chasing the birds and snatching their fish-playing games-talking about what we are grateful for-holding Steve's hand and watching the tide roll in-walks on the beach-long talks with Steve-swimming in the pool-racing with Steve-watching Reagan dive for discs in the pool-looking for crabs-reading, praying and journaling on the balcony-diet cherry dr. pepper-food network with the girls-pre made meals-reading while my feet are in the ocean-lots of giggling-painting nails-eating pretzel m&ms-no internet for a few days-quiet and peacefulness-lots of rest-warm breezes-dinner and fun at olive garden-trip to the mall-playing in the pool-watching tv in the middle of the day-story time-Legos-puzzles-seeing manatees on the shore-jellyfish-family time in the ocean-blue skies-summer storms-warm sand-sister time-watching Steve catch some waves-playing ball with Reagan in the pool-monkey in the middle in the pool-getting caught in the middle of a storm-Reagan made a visit to the life guard station to be treated for the jellyfish that got stuck in her suit-sitting on the balcony-popsicles-warm blankets and snuggling-movie time with the hubby when everyone else is asleep-playing Trouble-finding shells-little flip flops by the door-a full week with just my girls and favorite man-lots of fun memories!

Joy.

"The joy of the Lord is my strength." That has been a verse that has been on my heart and mind since I became a Christian when I was 16. Over the last two and a half years, in particular, I believe the Lord has been teaching me what this really looks like.

One of my friends shared this quote today:

"Joyfully embracing God's will doesn't mean that we're always laughing or smiling. There's not much laughter around a death bed or in the emergency room. To joyfully embrace God's will means that during the sobs and sorrow we say to God, "I bless your name, for you are always good to me." --the greener grass conspiracy

I want to be a cheerful, joyful Christian, wife, mom, daughter, friend, sister, etc. I want to be able to smile and laugh a lot. (Thankfully I have a funny husband who fills our home with humor and laughter!) I want this to be true of my life..."Cheerfulness is the support of our strength; in the joy of the Lord are we strong...Let us show to the people of the world, who think our religion to be slavery, that it is to us a delight and a joy! Let our gladness proclaim that we serve a good Master." (CH Spurgeon)

The past couple of years in particular there has been a lot of sorrow and a lot of tears. Jordyn's first couple of years of life were difficult and revealed so much of what I really believed about parenting and seeing my need for God - in every moment of the day. We have had family members walking through trials and difficulties that bring many tears to my eyes as I even write this. My heart is heavy and burdened for them, yet I know our kind Master is holding them near and is eager to give them comfort and peace.

Joy isn't always being bubbly and smiling. Although I do believe as children of our Risen Savior our faces should be radiant! Joy is know that I am standing on the Solid Rock. That our God is good all the time and that even though I may not understand His ways, I can always trust His hand. It's knowing that no matter what, it is always well with my soul. It's knowing that He gives and He takes away, and in both I can say "Blessed be Your Name". It's being aware that "A bruised reed He will not break, and a faintly burning wick He will not quench (Is 42:3). It's knowing that Heaven is my home and that time here on earth is short. It's knowing that God is with us, will not leave us, will not forsake us, will strengthen and uphold us - through the ordinary cares of life, and through any great trials and blessings He may have in store for us.

In this I find my joy. That Jesus would suffer, die, rise again and draw me to Himself. That He would give me life and with that give me hope in His true and living Word.

"Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is an everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not grow faint or weary, His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might, He increases strength." Is 40:28-31

You are God, and You are great

And we need You this very day

To wipe our eyes, to lift our gaze

So we can see Your mighty ways

We may not grasp or understand

The workings of Your mighty hand

But we can trust and hope in You

For all You do is good and true

You comfort us right where we are

You know our thoughts, You know our hearts

You know our fears and struggles within

You know our victories, You see our sins

In everything, the Cross shines through

Because of that we have hope in You

You love the ones You call Your own

And one day You will call us home

Life on this earth is difficult - full of want and need

But our time here is short indeed

For one day soon we'll enter our true home

Before Your throne, worshiping You alone!

How God Used A Drought and An Umbrella

There was a severe drought some years ago in the northern part of England. The situation became so severe that if it would not rain within a week, the crops would be totally lost. Due to this urgent need, it was decided to have a special prayer service for rain in one of the local churches.

As the minister of this congregation was approaching the church, he saw a little girl ahead of him carrying an umbrella. He caught up with the girl and asked her, “My little girl, why are you carrying an umbrella to church on such a hot day?”

Turning and looking into his face, the girl answered, “We are going to ask God to send rain today. I want to be ready.”

The minister testified in his sermon that the faith of this girl put him to shame.

From “How God Used a Drought and an Umbrella” by Joel R. Beeke and Diana Kleyn

It was Indeed a "Happy 4th of July"!

We had a great time celebrating our freedom as a nation all day yesterday! We started off the day by going to the parade in downtown Woodstock. Um, I love "small town USA"!! We loved being with our friends and watching the kids scoop up candy and wave at the people going by! After the parade, we took our stacks of Chick-fil-a coupons and enjoyed lunch - we had 13 little girls and 1 little guy in our bunch. That's a lot of kiddos!! And they all did super!! After naps, we headed over to the Gralniks. It was a great afternoon and evening talking with friends, listening to kids run in and out and playing together, laughing over Yahtzee, and of course, grilling out! We missed the fireworks because of the rain, so Reagan is hoping her Daddy will set some off tonight!

How grateful I am for our freedom as a nation, but I think hubby said it best on Sunday morning when he was able to encourage the church with this the day before the 4th...

"Tomorrow we will be celebrating our freedom as a nation. And it is a freedom worth celebrating. We are free to be here this morning with nothing to hide and worship God. But what we are celebrating here this morning is even more worthy of celebration. We are free from sin! Christ has paid the price for our sin once and for all. We are not only free today to meet together in this nation, but we are free to come before a Holy God. We are free to commune with him and praise him.

Romans 6:6-14, 22-23 "We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace...But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Let us worship God this morning with the worship and rejoicing that comes from the knowledge that we have been set free!"

The Best Day of the Week

My favorite day of the week for many years now has been Sunday. I love Sunday mornings. I love going to church to worship Jesus with some of the dearest people I know. I love listening to the messages and being fed by the Word of God. This past Sunday Steve left early to get ready to play for worship (which was absolutely, positively wonderful and refreshing!) and the girls and I got off to a bit of a rocky start. Two were whining (well, if you add me, that's 3) and we were running behind. Of course no one was out of bed or eager to get dressed or do their chores. In a moment I just thought "This is what the enemy would love to do. He loves to come in a destroy and distract. But God is bigger than him. And He is so much bigger than my own sin." So, the girls and I sat down and prayed and read through and talked about Proverbs 3. We thanked God that not only is His mercy new every morning, but it was new for that moment!

Matt Rawlings from the Greenville church came to serve our church and speak while Aaron is on vacation with his sweet family. God, in His kindness, used him to remind me of His nearness and His care for us. He didn't need too, nor did He have too, but through the message on Sunday I was so encouraged that the Lord does indeed hear our prayers. I really do believe that, but it was just one of those moments where I was overwhelmed by His kindness and my hope was built even more!

Matt spoke on Proverbs 3 (what I've been reading with the girls) and Jeremiah 32:17. The verse that I wrote about earlier in the week that has been such an encouragement to me. I sat there thinking, "Seriously, out of all the passages, all the verses, this pastor could preach on, he's using Jeremiah 32:17. I've never heard a pastor preach from that Scripture!"

Here are a couple of questions/thoughts from the message on Sunday:

* What do I do when I am tempted to doubt? Where do I run? Do I wake up proclaiming trust in God? Do I believe He will sustain us? Where am I attempting to trust my abilities?

* What is trust? It is an active reliance on God and who He is!

* Who do we trust? We trust in the all-knowing, all-powerful, all-loving God - if we doubt any of these areas, we are not trusting God.

* We can trust God not because of our experiences, but because of who He is.

OH, and then if that weren't already enough, toward the end of the message he referenced Hebrews 11. Yep. Sunday was super.

Please take the time to listen to this message. It will encourage you and remind you that God is indeed all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-loving!

The Law and The Gospel

"The law of God shows us what God commands (which, of course, is good) but the law does not possess the power to enable us to do what it says. You could put it this way: the law guides but it does not give. The law shows us what a sanctified life looks like, but it does not have sanctifying power. It's the gospel (what Jesus has done) that alone can give God-honoring animation to our obedience. The power to obey, in other words, comes from being moved and motivated by the completed work of Jesus for us. So, while the law directs us, only the Gospel can drive us." - Tullian Tchividjian

Truth.

I know there are always trials around us. I know we live in a fallen world where there is pain and suffering and sadness and sickness. The last few months in particular, it seems like a lot of that has been very near. We've been near to families dealing with death, rebellion, barrenness, heartache, sickness and pain. I don't think there has ever been a time in my life where the Lord has given me such a burden, and such a hope for others. And not just a "Just believe in Jesus and it will be okay" (said with a big cheesy smile), but a "I've been able to look back and see God's faithfulness and I truly believe He is who He says He is and His Word is true and He will remain faithful through every circumstance."

The beginning of the year the Lord lead me to two places in His Word and I have been camped out there for the most part this year. One is Romans 8:28 - "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." The other is Hebrews 11 which recounts the faithfulness of God. On many days I have had to cry out to God to really and truly make my heart believe Romans 8:28, for when I just see the pain someone is walking through, it can be hard to remember that not only is it for God's glory (that would be enough), but it is also for the good of those who love Him. And I must stand on the solid rock of His Truth!

There is another verse of Truth that I think on regularly right now, too. It is Jeremiah 32:17 "Ah, Lord God! It is You who made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for You." What hope I find in that Truth! When I find myself struggling with the same sin, or am talking to someone dear to me who is having to make decisions that seem unbearable, I can remember that God can do anything at any moment. He can change a heart of stone (He changed mine!). He can heal a sick and broken body. He can give the barren woman children! He can open hearts to believe and trust in Him! He can give those in the midst of tragedy peace and a heart that runs to Him, not from Him! And if we are alive in Christ, an eternity awaits us where we will be in the presence of the Most Holy and there will be no more sin, no more suffering, no more tears!!

It's Been a Decade...

and there is no other place that I would rather be than in his arms!

A little over 10 years ago I said "I do" to my man. At the time we had no idea what was in store for us on this adventure called marriage. We had no idea the joys and trials we would experience. We had no clue we would move so many times, have so many different jobs, have three beautiful girls, move out of state, buy a fixer-upper home, and so much more. We didn't know we would miscarry our first child or be apart for weeks at a time because of the way God chose to bring provision into our home for a season. We didn't know we would have different people live with us for seasons or that we would save money for a big 10 year get away by selling records! We didn't know that 10 years later we would actually love each other more than the day we were married. I didn't think it was possible. But it is. I love Steve. I regularly stand amazed, that God, in His great grace and providence, has allowed me to be this man's helper. I'm amazed that he would have even wanted to marry me, and not only that, but has stayed with me and loved me and continues to learn to pursue me and most of all that He loves the Lord. He is a man I respect and admire. He is the one who sees me at my best and my worst and loves me even at my unloveliest! He challenges me to do hard things and he makes me laugh everyday.

We are so grateful that we were able to get away for the longest amount of time we've ever been away to celebrate the goodness of God in our lives last month. We enjoyed each other and made memories in one of the most beautiful places we've ever been too. (I already put pictures under May of our trip to Hawaii!)

I can't wait to see what the next 10 years, and the next, and the next hold. I'm sure there will be much joy, many trials, many blessings, much laughter and tears. More memories and Lord willing, a lot of change and growth for our family. Hopefully we will set an example for our girls that makes marriage appealing, but most of all that our relationship will point them to the Gospel and goodness of our Savior, for without Him, we would not be able to have this testimony thus far!

March...April...May...June...Where is the Time Going?

This year is zooming by and I wish I could record day by day the funny sayings that the girls say, the ways they are growing and changing, the progress on our house, the many memories we are making, but I blink and another day goes by. I actually began the first sentence of this particular post three days ago, but quickly was interrupted by a little girl who wanted me to read "Charlie Cheese 1, 2, 3". It was only her and I here at the house, which is extremely rare, so I wasn't about to miss a few moments with just her and her little stack of books and Little People. Then, by the time I sat down again, I looked at the clock just to realize it was time to begin dinner. So, that's where the days go, and ever so quickly. It's quiet time and coffee, breakfast and dishes, getting dressed and reading, play-doh and grocery stores, swim lessons and VBS, time to work through conflicts with the littles, yard work, house projects, remembering to water my two living plants, tickle times, lunches, dinners, laundry and more dishes, exercising, snuggle time, game playing, prayers and lights out. Then going back in for a last peek at exhausted little girls who are snuggled up with their blankies - one in particular still talking in her sleep!

So, here's a few pictures from the last few months that show some of what we've been up too!

March

Steve took Reagan and Sydney camping in our woods!
Finally warm enough to go to the park!

Sweet sisters!
Mud - from head to toe!
This is what it looks like when you get to girls together to make two freezers full of meals and someone bursts the water line in your front yard!

We had some dear friends over for some good food and friendly competition!
The little stinker (the one in the pink) and our family morning out fishing.

Everything looks so peaceful, right!?! This was the trip when I tangled three poles, Sydney dropped her pole in the water, Steve slipped in the water going after the pole, he ran over his new tackle box, and we didn't get a single bite...all in under an hour!!

We began redoing the kitchen!!
Steve had his first meet!

Too cute!
Worship time in the kitchen to some Daryl Evans!
More kitchen remodeling!

April

May

June

Seeing God in the Details...

Two Sundays ago Mama called us around 5:15 PM. I was in the middle of making dinner when I picked up the phone. When I heard her voice I knew something was terribly wrong. I don't think I've ever heard her sound like she did, and although she was calm, I just knew something bad had happened. She told me they believed Matthew had been killed in a car accident. It was a fiery crash, so nothing was confirmed, but they were pretty confident it was him. My heart instantly ached. I mean I know these kind of accidents happen everyday, but never so close to home. I was a mess. It was so hard to be so far from my family that night, although I knew there was absolutely nothing I could have done for them that evening other than cry out to God on their behalf. So that's what we did. We prayed and prayed. And cried. By the time I was up and going on Monday, Steve and a couple of families from our church were all set to take care of the girls for the week. I couldn't wait to go and be with my Sissy and Mark. I am so grateful I was able to be there and see God's hand upon them, holding them up and bringing them comfort in the midst of their heartache. Here are a few things I do not want to forget about the past couple of weeks.

God is in the details. I know this and believe this, but I saw this in ways I don't know that I ever have before. Even in when my sister and I had our different little Valentine's Parties planned. Mine was on Friday, and the Lord knew Monday would not have worked, and Sissy's was on Monday, and God knew her little girls would need a distraction that day. The Williams, who have lived in different places throughout the years, are a part of the same church...and had even been in Mark and Sissy's care group. The Williams had lost two of their precious children in an accident several years ago. Kim drove us to the crash site and to see the truck and he was able to ask questions and demonstrate compassion and care like no one else could. As Spurgeon said "Instructed by affliction, you will become a comforter to the afflicted." The Williams, through their own suffering, are bringing comfort and care to my sis and bro in ways others could not. Watching other details like families interacting and making the most difficult of decisions with peace and care and concern for one another, the church and neighbors bringing meals, the phone calls, the pastor coming by with Starbucks and dark chocolate, the girls all sleeping through the night, for our local church family and the care they showed my family by loving on my girls and sending emails and text messages and calling us to let us know they were praying, for my amazing neighbor who brought us enough food for a couple of meals...oh, so many more details, but those are a few that stick out to me...Oh, and laying in bed watching Bernie Mac. =)

And then even bigger. When God's Word says "peace that passes understanding", He truly does give this in proportion to what we need when we need it. Grace is not for our imaginations. Grace is for the moment. And I have watched as my sister and Mark have walked in this peace. We sure don't understand God's plan or timing, but I have seen peace in the midst of a storm. And that is only something God can do in the midst of tragedy.

How thankful I am for the time I was able to spend with my nieces. I have not been able to spend that much time with them since having children of my own. I'm so grateful I was able to take them to get ice cream (and fun dip) and drive them to their class and help them do school and pick out their clothes and paint their nails and pray with them and just be with them.

Matthew's service was incredible. Mark spoke and honored God and his son. One thinks they could never do that....stand up and speak at your child's funeral, but he did it and did it well. Again, the sustaining hand of God was on clear demonstration.

Leaving on Saturday was hard. I couldn't wait to hold my babies and kiss and love on them, but I didn't want to leave Mark and Sissy, knowing this next week could possibly be even harder than the last. I have cried many tears for them this week. I am grateful for the Word of God and writers like Elisabeth Elliot and Charles Spurgeon and the Betters. I am grateful that our hope is in what is unseen, not what is seen.

If anyone besides Mama reads this ;), please keep praying for my Sissy and Mark and the girls. Pray that they will continue to experience peace and that they will experience the comfort and care of their Savior like they never have before.

Tonight we sang "Blessed Be Your Name" and "Rock of Ages" and "Our God is Greater" during our family worship time. Praise be to God that HE is our Rock and our Refuge and that in His strength, we can bless His name both when He gives and takes away.

"The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior...I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised...This God - his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in Him." 2 Samuel 22:2-4, 31

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Ps 147:3

And this song...

God works in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform.

He plants His footsteps in the sea, and rides upon the storm.

You fearful saints, fresh courage take: the clouds you so much dread

Are big with mercy and shall break in blessings on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, but trust Him for His grace;

Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face.

Blind unbelief is sure to err and scan His work in vain;

God is His own interpreter, and He will make it plain.

So God, we trust in You. So God, we trust in You.

When fears are great and comforts few, we trust in mercies ever new,

We trust in You.

And I'll Dance With Cinderella...

My husband is an amazing father. I mean tears well up in my eyes just thinking about him with my girls!! He truly is the dad I dreamed my children would have. He loves them dearly and he is daily learning how to communicate that love to them better and better. He guards his time with us. He makes us a priority. One day, I am excited to see how God blesses him through the girls because of his faithfulness to God and his faithfulness to us. May the fruit of all his labor be very, very sweet!

This past Saturday, yes after Junior's departure, Steve had a special date planned for all 3 girls. (I had a special date planned with a book, paper, pen, and sub!) Earlier that day I went and bought the girls new dresses for their date with Daddy. (It's not uncommon for him to take them on dates, this one was just a little different!) By 2 o'clock, Reagan was dressed, had picked out jewelry and knew how she wanted to wear her hair. She was so excited! Chick-fil-a (they are an amazing franchise, by the way!) hosted their Daddy/Daughter Date Night, so they had their reservations for 5:30! All the girls were given roses and candy, a little cow and questions to ask their Dad. Steve was given questions to ask the girls. And of course, there was ice cream with sprinkles!! They all had a blast!

Sydney and Reagan both like this song by Stephen Curtis Chapman. We know it's true, too. Hopefully we will make the most of our time with our little Cinderellas!

She spins and she sways
To whatever song plays
Without a care in the world
And I'm sitting here wearing
The weight of the world on my shoulders

It's been a long day
And there's still work to do
She's pulling at me
Saying "Dad, I need you

There's a ball at the castle
And I've been invited
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oooooh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone...

She says he's a nice guy and I'd be impressed
She wants to know if I approve of her dress
She says, "Dad, the prom is just one week away
And I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Ooh-oh ooh-oh I will dance with Cinderella

I don't want to miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone

She will be gone

Well, she came home today with a ring on her hand
Just glowing and telling us all they had planned
She says, "Dad, the wedding's still six months away
But I need to practice my dancing
Oh, please, Daddy, please?"

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Ooh-oh ooh-oh I will dance with Cinderella
I don't want to miss even one song
'Cause all too soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone

Junior. Part 2.

Saturday morning was a sad, sad morning. Friday night Steve and I realized that little Junior was making our girls sick. We called the Pet Store Saturday morning and they told us to bring him back. What he has wasn't easy to treat and the girls would continue to catch it as well. My heart ached as Steve told Reagan and as I watched her hold her new little buddy and pet him and cry. It's amazing how quickly we can attach to something. Not that I was attached to him, but much worse, my baby girl was. Watching her hurt is so much more difficult than hurting myself. And I know there will be many times throughout her life that she will ache and I hope and pray I can extend compassion and love to her during those times. Most of all, it is another opportunity where her heart is softened towards the love of God and His care and His comfort. I loved being able to pray for her about it, or when my Mama called and said they prayed for her at their Wednesday morning prayer meeting at church! Being able to point her to the true Prince of Peace is worth the ache, even when it is hard.

Steve is so sweet and explained things to her so well. After he told the girls (Sydney didn't seem to care at all, and Jordyn was clueless except for the fact that her Sissy was upset which she did care about) he took them to Home Depot for a craft while I took Junior back. Jordyn has asked for him everyday since then, but Reagan is doing fine! We won't be housing any more indoor animals for a long, long, long time, though!

10 Fun Weekend Memories...

10. Playing Don't Spill the Beans and Don't Break the Ice with the girls Friday night.

9. Watching Robinhood with my man after the girls went to bed.

8. Sleeping in on Saturday morning.

7. Having the Snyders come over and play and visit all day on Saturday.

6. Going through magazines and getting organized Saturday night.

5. Having everything ready for Sunday morning before Sunday morning.

4. Goodnight kisses from tired little girls.

3. Reading for extended amounts of time.

2. Going to church on this morning and being encouraged by Truth and being able to worship with friends.

1. Having lunch with friends after church.

oh, and a couple more...

Being able to go the gym and run a mile in 7 min. 15 sec., making dinner with the girls, putting clean sheets on my bed, and watching Little House on the Prairie with the girls before tucking them in for the evening! =)

Rock of Ages, cleft for me...

1. Tuesday I was reading Joni Eareckson Tada's book "The God I Love" and her family was singing "Rock of Ages". Throughout the day I was singing the first verse over and over again to myself. At rest time Reagan heard me and came in the room so excited! She's been reading these wonderful little books, and the story she read that same morning had "Rock of Ages" in it! I love when God gives those special opportunities to be able to share with my girls about who He is and to see how He is softening especially Reagan's heart towards Himself!

1. Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
   Let me hide myself in Thee;
   Let the water and the blood,
   From Thy wounded side which flowed,
   Be of sin the double cure,
   Save from wrath and make me pure.
2. Not the labor of my hands
   Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;
   Could my zeal no respite know,
   Could my tears forever flow,
   All for sin could not atone;
   Thou must save, and Thou alone.
3. Nothing in my hand I bring,
   Simply to Thy cross I cling;
   Naked, come to Thee for dress;
   Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
   Foul, I to the fountain fly;
   Wash me, Savior, or I die.
4. While I draw this fleeting breath,
   When my eyes shall close in death,
   When I rise to worlds unknown,
   And behold Thee on Thy throne,
   Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
   Let me hide myself in Thee.

Snowed In!

Friday. 3 PM. I entered our normally very mellow, calm Publix and was almost run over by elderly people in the produce department. "What is going on?" I asked the manager working nearby. He said it was because of the big storm that was coming on Sunday. Well, Little House on the Prairie had not informed me of an upcoming storm, and since that is all I had watched that day, I had no idea what was going on!

Saturday we went to Lowes and it was crazy, too. They had sold out of salt and generators and other items that may come in handy should you be stuck at home (or wanting to get out of your home!). Steve and I didn't think much of it. I thought I might should find some candles in case our power went out for a little while.

We had a super time on Sunday with a family from our church! They ended up staying for lunch and dinner and left around 8. At 9, Steve and I retreated to our room to watch a movie. We came down at 11 and it was quite eerie! Outside was white and light! I've never seen anything like it! It was beautiful! Before breakfast on Monday we dressed the girls in multiple layers and went out to play in the snow! We made snow cones, snow balls, attempted a snow man, looked for animal tracks, played on the swing, made a sled out of a box and went down our little hills, etc.! They had so much fun!! (And so did I!)

Day 2 of the snow, not so much fun. A thin layer of ice surrounded our house and it was colder than the day before. But, I did enjoy not being able to go anywhere. To be undistracted and able to just be home!

Yesterday we tried to leave, but we couldn't make it out of our long, icy driveway. I made it to the front gate and then had to back all the way up to the house! More Little House on the Prairie awaited us when we got back in!!

Today I was beginning to go a little stir crazy. How in the world do people live in this for months on end?!?! I made it out in Steve's car and went to the store.

It's been so fun to experience snow and watching our girls playing and having such a good time. It's been fun experiencing different seasons since we moved up here, too! But I do have to say, there is still a lot of Florida heat running through my veins!! I'm going to try to not wish winter away, but spring time will be joyfully welcomed around here!

Junior.

We have a new member of our family. He is growing on me. See, I only had a fish when I was younger and I killed it by feeding it to much. It always looked hungry to me.

I can't believe it, but I'm actually the one who recommended we get the girls a pet for Christmas. We started out surprising them and telling them they were getting two hamsters. After an informative conversation with the man at the pet store, I came home and talked to Steve and we reconsidered thinking a tiny little hamster may not make it very long in our home with a 2, 4 and 6 year old! So, we went with the more lovable, less rat-like looking rodent - a guinea pig. Of course, in my naive thinking I believed he would be the girls' responsibility and that Steve would take care of the rest. But I just can't stand all the poo. So, I've already cleaned his cage out a couple of times and it's not so bad. (And I'm not slamming my husband, I'm sure if I asked him he would take care of business, but I know he's busy and it just doesn't bug the rest of them like it does me!) And, a week into it, I actually touched the little guy. Yesterday I found myself alone in the girls' room on the floor talking to him! Reagan has really enjoyed him and has been holding him and feeding him and Sydney enjoys him, but not to the extent her older sister does. Jordyn likes to just sit and watch him and yell out his name! So, we'll see how this whole pet thing goes! I'm thinking our next pet will be an outdoor one, though!

Oh, and why "Junior"? I told the girls to agree on a girl and boy name so when I came home from the pet store they would have a name for their new little gift! When I told them he's a boy, they told me his name and I about rolled on the floor. They said "Since he's a boy, we want to name him Steve Jr. and call him 'Junior'!! I guess Steve isn't quite as outnumbered now!!

A couple of things we've learned about guinea pigs...

They don't need hay 3 times a day. One small handful is sufficient. You have to clean out the cage a lot less often.

Same with treats. They only need a small amounts...not a carrot, a handful of parsley and an orange slice. Has the same affect as lots of hay.

They are playful and squeal like little piggies when they are happy!

They are sweet with little girls who give them some lovin' and attention!

Cuteness is...

I am one blessed Mommy. I do not deserve these girls. I do not deserve all the hugs and kisses and giggles and adorable drawings. The "I love yous". The dances in the kitchen. The jumps on the trampoline. Reading books and answering questions. Snuggling and watching Little House on the Prairie. Oh, the list could go on and on. I do not deserve all this goodness, but I wouldn't trade it for anything and I thank God everyday for these little blessings. Even on the hard days I thank Him. Those days I think I love them even more, because I'm driven even more towards my Savior. I'm overwhelmingly surrounded by cuteness...everyday! =)

...and a partridge in a pear tree! =)

Whew, December is over. We are already 3 days into 2011. We had a great Christmas with family and friends. I better put down a quick re-cap of the month!

December 17: We had our family Christmas Eve dinner and opened our p.j.s from Steve and he read the Christmas story.

December 18: We celebrated Christmas together. The girls had a blast and we had fun playing with their new toys. It was a relaxing day...until I had to pack for Orlando!! =) The girls opened their big gift from us which was going to be 2 hamsters (now we are going for one guinea pig - a little more durable!).

December 19: Reagan was in the little Christmas choir at church. They sang Hope Came Down and Go Tell it on the Mountain. She was so cute =). After church we had a potluck and then jumped in the van to head to Orlando!!!

In Orlando we stayed at Mama's. (By the way, she is one of the most gracious servants I know. I hope I am as selfless as she is one day.) We were able to hang out with her and Mom and Dad and Amy and Kaleb and Sissy and Mark and the twins and Emma! We also were able to have dinner with Jenn and David one night and the Traugotts! It was so good to visit Metro, too! We spent Christmas Eve-Eve at Mom and Dad's and then Christmas Eve at Mark and Sissy's. The week was full! We were able to help Mom and Dad pack and reminisce about many fond memories that were made in that home. The night before we left we also were able to go out for a yummy steak dinner with Mama!

Last week was full of playing, going to the gym, unpacking, and trying to resume "normal" life! Steve and I have been able to look back over the last year and see God's faithfulness, provision, and sustaining grace. We have been looking forward and talking about our hopes for this next year. My common answer right now is "Lord willing". We make plans, but I am thankful that it is the LORD who ordains our steps and nothing comes to us without first passing through His loving hands. I'm grateful that I don't know what this next year holds, but I know who is in control of each of my days and He never changes!