Dating Isn't Just for Before Marriage!

I love when we have a date night on the calendar!

I look forward to going out with my man and spending time just as his girl - titles of "mom", "teacher","house cleaner", "dinner maker", "laundry washer", etc. are put on the shelf and it's time for the boy and girl who fell in love with each over 11 years ago to enjoy some one-on-one time! With date nights out not being too frequent, and wanting to cultivate thinking about hubby more, I thought it was a good time to start thinking about date nights in! A while back I would try to plan regular date nights in. I have really been slacking over the past, say, couple of years!

So, here's what I'm doing for the year...

For Valentine's Day, two of my friends and I planned a fun scavenger hunt for our husbands. We had such a good time planning the hunt and dinner! One of my creative friends made our guys shirts that they had to wear (and the writing had to be visible!) in order to get all of their clues at the different stops along the way to finding us. Oh, what did the shirts say? "I Love My Hot Wife"! They went to QT for their favorite treats. (We had already paid for everything and their snacks were with their next clue!) Next they went to Dick's Sporting Goods and they had to go all the way to the back of the store to the fishing department where they found their next clue with a jar of gummy worms and a note saying "hooked on you"! From there, they went to La Parilla where they picked up chips and salsa (well, that's what it was supposed to be - it was actually someone else's meal!). Next they had to find their next clue "Where Shopping is a Pleasure" and then to Longhorn where my friend found out they carried her husband's favorite dessert! Their last clue led them back to one of our houses where we had a fiesta awaiting our guys - starting with a pinata, lots of yummy Mexican food, and we ended the night watching 3 Amigos. It was a blast - both the planning and actual date!

(I don't have the pictures from that evening, but he happens to be wearing the shirt right now!)

The next morning, for Steve's Valentine's gift, I made him a passport and let him know we were going to go around the world this year from the comfort of our own home. Each month I'm planning a date night in with a theme from a different country. I knew giving him this gift would help keep me from getting too distracted and actually follow through with planning a fun night in for us.

So, the beginning of the month we spent an evening in China!

He brought his passport...

He came to the restaurant "Love"...

Our meal began with egg rolls and spicy shrimp bao...

Next came our main dish of Mandarin Orange Chicken, Vegetable Fried Rice and Szechuan Style Green Beans...

With our main dish, we also had Sake for the first (and probably last) time! I used my grandmother's tea set from Okinawa. (I am aware, too, that Okinawa is in Japan, but it looked good with our set-up!)

Next came the Wonton soup...

And for dessert we enjoyed coconut ice cream and fortune cookies...

Another fun part about the meal was that it really took me no time at all to prepare. Trader Joe's did most of the work for me. The girls went shopping with me and helped me pick out everything for their daddy's and mine special evening. It was inexpensive and I was able to put it all together while he was putting the girls to bed...

I had borrowed a Mahjong game from a friend, but after spending way too long trying to figure out the rules, I had to come up with a Plan B. So, I went to The Dating Diva's website and found another idea. We played a silly game called "Wok Tok" (like Mad Gab). It was so fun just being goofy together and laughing! I already have April's date night idea and can't wait to make it happen - and I really love that Steve's already asked me what we are doing next!

Surprise!

The girls and I spent a wonderful week in Florida last week enjoying family and friends! On Wednesday it worked out for my mom and I to surprise the girls and take them to Disney World! I was so excited to see their faces when I told them how we were going to spend the day! They woke up to Minnie Mouse shirts and breakfast waiting for them. Our first stop was Animal Kingdom where we went on Safari, scaled Everest, dug for dino bones and barely escaped the bug show!! Next we were on to the Magic Kingdom where we saw princesses, ate Mickey Bars, went on Splash Mountain, a magic carpet ride, climbed Swiss Family Robinson's tree house, sailed through the Pirates of the Caribbean, took a train ride, and more! The girls had a blast and I enjoyed watching them and riding with them and was so glad Mama was able to come, too! Today they have recreated the rides and spent all afternoon reliving their trip to Disney!

Who Am I?

A couple of weeks ago I received a package I had been waiting for in the mail. I was so excited, only when I opened it up I realized I had made a mistake and ordered the wrong thing.

And it was a heavy thing...

Oh, and I did mention it was MY mistake...

So shipping it back was going to be expensive.

I hate making mistakes like that. I started calling myself names like "I'm such an idiot, I'm so stupid," etc...I know, I know - real mature! Reagan stopped me and said "Mom, why are you saying those things about yourself? You really shouldn't - it's not true." Gulp. I stopped. And I thanked her. Later that night, I was thinking about my costly mistake again and those words began taunting me again - along with others like "failure, you just disappoint others, you're so dumb you can't even order something online right", etc., etc. - In that moment I felt like the Lord stopped me and said "This is who you - and maybe others - say you are - but who do I say you are? Look to Me. Look to the Truth in My Word. I call you by these names:

My beloved.

My friend.

My child.

Saved.

Clean.

Forgiven.

Called.

Chosen one.

Dearly loved.

This is my true identity. This is my identity IN CHRIST. Not because of anything I have done or have not done, but because of Who HE is and what He has accomplished on that rugged tree.

"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above,

where Christ is,seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above,

not on things that are on earth."

Colossians 3:1-2

Lord, keep my eyes off myself and on You. Thank you that when my eyes are on You, and how You love Your children, I can't help but want to worship. Thank You that You are always faithful to Your promises and You never leave or forsake the one's You draw to Yourself.

100 Plus Joys

2 winters ago I spent a little time just recounting some of the gifts from the Lord that bring joy into my life. I've had them on my side bar, but am trying to update. I'm adding them here so I can look back when needed! =)

1 - That my Savior would call me His and that never will He leave or forsake me!

2 - When Jordyn runs up to me, squeezes my leg, gives it a big kiss and tells me she loves me!

3 - Holding Steve's hand!

4 - Going to get Steve a Slurpee even if it is 40 degrees outside!

5 - Drinking hot tea with a dear friend!

6 - Cooking for my family and friends!

7 - Sitting on our front porch and reading while it is still really quiet in the morning!

8 - Wrapping Christmas gifts for our family!

9 - Watching my husband grow in the midst of everyday life and learning from him!

10 - How it feels after a good, hard workout at the gym when I've been pushed to do things I didn't think I could physically accomplish!

11 - Reading Reagan's stories she's writing for school and watching her smile her toothless smile!

12 - Snuggling with Sydney when she lays down for her nap and talking to just her for a few minutes!

13 - Talking to my mom on the phone after I drop our babysitter off after CG!

14 - Seeing my friends with their two new baby girls from China and their love and compassion that is truly a gift from God!

15 - The treat of sipping on a hot peppermint mocha from Starbucks!

16 - Playing hopscotch in the living room with the girls!

17 - The time I get to talk to Camille every other week as we drive to and from our houses!

18 - Playing Hungry, Hungry Hippos with the fam and Reagan giving up the pink Hippo so I can have a turn!

19 - For God's strength to take care of a sick little girl!

20 - For God's perfect sovereignty when His plans aren't what I have in mind for the day!

21 - Watching Reagan make Sydney sweet "Feel Better" cards and loving her little sissy!

22 - Working in the kitchen next to my 6 year old while she makes her lunch just because she wants to help me!

23 - Snuggling on this cold day and having a Little House on the Prairie marathon with my girls!

24 - Hearing Laura from Veggie Tales sing her song over and over again as the girls play with their nativity set!

25 - Thinking about the hot chocolate chip cookies I'm going to make for my man in a little while!

26 - Cristina making a super yummy dinner for all of us while I continue to do the constant cycle of laundry today and care for now 2 little sick ones!

27 - Rocking my babies in front of our lit Christmas tree with the winter landscape in the window behind!

28 - Experiencing God's grace as my girls ask me to pray for them instead of them complaining. I've been overwhelmed today by their attitudes and how much they have just wanted prayer because they know that God hears our prayers...and He answers us!

29 - Sitting in total silence for what may only be a moment. Yep, just a moment! =)

30 - Praying with my friend while we eat her yummy chocolate chip hazelnut cookies!

31 - Seeing my man after he's been gone all day!

32 - Trying to find the Teddy Bear at Trader Joe's with Reagan and Sydney so they can get a treat!

33 - Watching them enjoy their treat!

34 - Eating dinner with Ben and Cristina and Steve after all the kiddos are tucked into bed for the evening!

35 - Listening to C.J. remind us to keep the Gospel in front of us daily and worshiping God with other believers and friends!

36 - Giving the girls their cream sodas because it's Sunday!

37 - Talking to Steve and praying together so that hopefully we'll both learn to understand each other and encourage each other more...daily!

38 - Holding my sweet pregnant friend's squishy, sweet little girl for a few minutes at church!

39 - Getting a hug from Sheila!

40 - Seeing the first snowflakes of the season!

41 - Listening to the girls talk about what they learned at Sunday school this morning!

42 - A kiss from my hubby as he leaves to go to work!

43 - Listening to 6 little girls playing house and all being sweet to each other!

44 - Reading Reagan's creative little stories she writes for school!

45 - Thinking about seeing our family in 2 weeks!

46 - When hubby comes home from being gone all day!

47 - When hubby brings home special treats like flowers and Slurpees...just because!

48 - Listening to the girls laugh hysterically while being entertained by their Daddy before he prays for them and puts them to bed!

49 - Being able to make dinner almost every night for my family!

50 - Getting mail that isn't junk. (Like presents I've ordered or a note from my sister =)!)

51 - Hubby helping me when I'm not feeling so great!

52 - Hearing the girls laughing and having fun with Cristina and Luke while they make Gingerbread men!

53 - Having friends who care about my soul and listen and speak Truth into my life!

54 - Warm clean sheets, hot tea and soft socks!

55 - Snuggling and watching Robin Hood with my man!

56 - Reading a card my sweet Reagan made me today saying she saved her gingerbread man cookie for me!

57 - Family worship time!

58 - Holding Jordyn and praying for her before I put her in her crib!

59 - Watching little sissies love on each other after they have been encouraged by their Daddy to do so! =)

60 - Being able to run at the gym!

61 - Fresh haircuts and a fun stylist to talk too!

62 - Anticipating a date night out with my man!

63 - Having time with the ladies in our care group and seeing God at work in each of their lives!

64 - Reading about Jesus' birth with the kiddos!

65 - Being able to get up in the morning and spend time in the Word being envisioned by God's Truth.

66 - Being able to work out at the gym with a trainer and being able to talk to her about what's going on in her life. And being able to pray for her and let her know it!

67 - Listening to little girls talk and giggle 'till after 10 last night when they had one of their dear little friends over to spend the night!

68 - Having a girls' night in with Ashley and Cristina and laughing through the movie we watched!

69 - A big pot of home made soup cooking and bread baking while I write a few cards!

70 - Letting Jordyn "help" me wrap presents this morning!

71 - Going to a Christmas program with our sweet neighbors!

72 - Talking with Steve late at night!

73 - Knowing and believing that "The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love...He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His steadfast love toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does He remove our transgressions from us." Ps 103:8, 10-12

74- Cleaning my home!

75 - Watching and listening to little girls play with Legos for hours and hours and eating their Lego cupcakes and cookies!

76 - Listening to the girls playing mommy and baby...it's very revealing, too!!

77 - A kiss good morning from my man!

78 - Baking goodies for our friends and neighbors!

79 - Helping the Hartman's move into their new home!

80 - Getting our home ready for our Care Group's Christmas party!

81 - Reading with the girls by the fireplace after our CG Christmas party has been canceled due to icy roads!

82 - Bringing goodies out to people who've been trying for hours to make their way home only to be stopped in traffic in front of our house!

83 - Playing Scrabble in front of a warm fire with my man and laughing at his goofy faces!

84 - Checking on Jordyn before I go to bed at night...being able to give her kisses and cover her up with her multiple blankies and give put her baby doll and puppy dog back in her chubby little arms!

85 - Being able to read "The Gospel for Real Life, Shopping for Time and my Bible and drink my Awake tea before anyone else (but of course Steve) is up in the morning!

86 - A phone call from a friend inviting me to go over for dessert!

87 - Making cookies with friends and talking while 12 little kids run circles around us!

88 - Getting Reagan and Sydney dressed up and ready so they can go on a date with their Daddy! (Dinner and Shopping!)

89 - Going out Christmas shopping with Jordyn and listening to her as she has an opportunity to talk since her two big sisters are elsewhere!

90 - The quote in my text by Jerry Bridges!

91 - Talking to one of my dearest friend for a LONG time on the phone about anything and everything!

92 - Taking Christmas goodies and cards to all our neighbors!

93 - Going and visiting my great aunt who moved here from California!

94 - Watching my girls faces light up when they get to buy presents for their Daddy!

95 - Helping Reagan hand sew Sydney's Christmas present and watching her wrap it all by herself.

96 - Snuggling on the couch with Jordyn and Sydney while we read books together!

97 - Playing games in the van with the girls while we are driving here and there and everywhere!

98 - Listening to Steve read the Christmas story while we are all in our new Christmas p.j.s that he picked out special for each of us!

99 - Thinking about having the whole day with my little family tomorrow without a big agenda other than celebrating our Savior and enjoying each other!

100 - Watching Reagan sing with the children's choir at church as we celebrate our Savior with our church family and hoping the Lord uses the words to soften her heart towards the Gospel!

(Um, I think I'll just keep going!)

101 - The uninterrupted time Steve and I were able to talk on our drive down to Orlando yesterday about our goals and hopes for 2011!

102 - Seeing my Mama last night when we arrived at her home which she so graciously is giving up for us this week!

103 - Getting a pair of very special earrings that I have wanted since I was a child!

104 - Eating cheese and sausage biscuits and having an unhurried morning with the girls and Steve!

105 - Playing Trouble with the girls!

106 - Getting back into a "normal" routine and having play time with the girls. Laughing with them as they make up silly ways to play their games and listening to them encourage each other as they win or lose!

107 - When my 6 year old sweetie pie asks if she can have a private conversation with just me to talk about something that happened while she was with some other children today and being able to point her to our Savior and pray for her!

108 - Walking around my in-laws home for the last time on Sunday and remembering all the wonderful memories we shared there. Then thinking ahead with JOY about the memories to be made in their new home in a new city as they follow God's will for their lives.

109 - Snow days!

110 - Reading Joni Eareckson Tada's testimony in her book "The God I Love".

111 - Talking over the 31 questions from the Romantic Vineyard's blog with my man and learning more about him!

112 - Big cups of cold water and mugs of hot tea!

113 - Snuggling with Sydney when she just wakes up from a nap!

114 - Having friends over and listening to 8 little girls playing together!

115 - Being able to have people in our home on a regular basis for food and fellowship!

116 - Walking to the mailbox with my man!

117 - Being able to thank God everyday for how He provides for us and blesses us and knowing that He will never leave or forsake us.

118 - Being able to read for an extended amount of time!

Growing Girls

Time is zooming by. I mean seriously, is it already February? Is my seven year old really so tall? I can just hope her jeans are shrinking and she didn't really just grow another inch, although I'm sure that is not reality. And how is my five year old a snaggle-tooth already? One day I will miss the adorable toothless giggles that greet me across the table during breakfast. And my baby - well, she's twirling and whirling and coloring and keeping up with the big girls. And, oh, yep - her pants have decided to shrink, too! =) Sometimes I don't want to blink. I just sit and watch and listen and try to soak in the sister-love that's going on around me, the silly giggles, the corny knock-knock jokes, who's hanging from the swing set, and who's in control of the Rapunzel dress at the moment.

Other times I don't mind the change. I love watching the girls grow and change. I love seeing God's hand at work and wonder what He has in store for their little lives and am in awe that I actually get to live life with them day in and day out. Learning about history, reading Swiss Family Robinson, Little House on the Prairie lunch "dates", Bible around the table, working in the yard together, playing "maids" to get the house in order, hide and go seek in the dark, having actual conversations about life, playing freeze tag, seeing what bug Reagan decides to surprise me with (at least the last one was a dead lizard!), watching the girls grow and want to help each other and other people...these things and many more make me not mind "blinking".

So, yes, my last post was October. A lot has happened since then. There has been much laughter, many tears, lots of sugar eaten, disciplines given, chores taken care of, snuggles, boo-boos, school work, swinging, sliding, twirling, piano practicing, loosing of teeth, books read, bubble baths, doll playing and dress up. Whew, all that just happened today! I can't wait to see what's in store for tomorrow!

Here's toothless Wonder Girl - another one has fallen out since this shot last week!

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!

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!

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!

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

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.

Due to Inclement Weather...

once again, His plans were not ours!

I've been so excited about hosting our Care Group's Christmas party at in our home. I've struggled a little this year with missing the familiarity of the long standing friendships and family in Orlando. I've missed the parties and dinners and baking days and shopping trips that have been associated with the people we love dearly - especially that would happen this time of year. So, planning and preparing for the party last night was exciting for me! Reagan and I went out around 3 to pick up wood for the fire and cut holly for a centerpiece for the table. Then around 5 I went outside and I couldn't believe it...there was ice on the driveway! Then I looked out the front window to see traffic at almost a stand-still! Seriously?!?! By 6, I made myself come to the reality we were going to be eating a lot of cookies by ourselves tonight. And I was disappointed. And I tried to have a good attitude. But for a few minutes I didn't. I told Steve I just didn't want to plan and look forward to anything because it seems like God just doesn't want me to do the fun things we plan. I know, I know...boo-hoo.

Steve graciously corrected me and encouraged me. (I love this guy!) And then God quickened my heart to a piece of Scripture I've held near this year..."The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." (Proverbs 16:9) Sure, I missed seeing all my friends last night and having fun and celebrating Christmas with them, but I was grateful they were all home safe, too.

And instead of pouting, God gave me the grace to change and enjoy the rest of the evening! Reagan, Sydney, Jordyn and I read about the 3 Wise Men and about Stinky Feet (their favorite story from the Jesus Storybook Bible) by the fire and then we watched cartoons before bed. Then Steve and I were getting ready to eat cookies, drink hot chocolate and play Scrabble (he really was trying to help me =)!) when he had the idea to bring some goodies out to the people who were desperately trying to get home. Now that was fun! It was fun to see the surprised look on the man's face when he got an unexpected treat. It was fun to help two ladies who had pulled over and had been sitting in their cars for hours because they were both scared to drive on the ice. It was wonderful to be able to bring them to our house so they could go to the bathroom and have a drink and something to eat. God knew those ladies would need a place to be refreshed last night. That has been my desire for our home. That people would come in and be refreshed. No matter how little or long they stay. And last night, once again, He answered that prayer - even if it was just for a few minutes! Then we played Scrabble and Steve beat me, but once again God showed me that even when His plans aren't my plans, He never changes and He is always good and worthy to be praised. So, I will keep praying and keep planning, but I'll hold those plans loosely, too. Knowing that even though I plan it is He who truly orders my days.

I Didn't Escape the Bug...

I thought I made it through all the sickness and cleaning up...that is until the wee hours of this morning. Then it hit. Over the last couple of hours I have been so blessed by my husband who has taken care of me so well. He immediately called into work and told them he needed to take care of the kiddos today, he's checked in on me and brought me refills of Sprite. We just talked about growing in compassion and it seems like after we have conversations like that good opportunities are just around the corner!

AND then Cristina offered to watch the girls so that Steve could go and work. Cristina who is helping her husband and preparing to move in a few days. Who has plenty to do on her own. But I hear them downstairs making Gingerbread cookies and laughing and having fun. I definitely wouldn't choose to get sick. Especially in December - less than two weeks before we leave for Orlando, but again I'm glad my plans aren't His plans. I'm thankful that I can rest today and get well quickly and that my girls are having fun and aren't having to sit in front of movies all day!

Today.

Today I woke up and went to the gym while it was freezing cold outside and started the day off by seeing two of my dear, sweet friends!

Today I watched 6 little girls play and listened to them giggle and be super good mommies to all their little babies!

Today I started reading The Gospel for Real Life and Shopping for Time.

Today I wrapped presents and excitedly opened packages that came in the mail today that are special gifts for special people!

Today I talked to my sister and mom on the phone to talk about Christmas!

Today we ate little gingerbread men at lunch and I watched all the little girls...and Luke =) nibble away one part at a time!

Today I was surprised by my sweet hubby when he came home from work with a Slurpee and dozen red roses in his hands for me!

Today I enjoyed eating dinner with my family and the Hartmans, realizing that this time next week they will be in the process of setting up their new home.

Right now I'm listening to 3 little girls laughing hysterically as their daddy entertains them before he prays for them and puts them to bed!

Today has been a good day!

Joy.

With Thanksgiving just passing us by, of course gratefulness has been on my brain. We have so much to be thankful and grateful for, yet so often I find myself complaining about something. Most of the time it is something really, really dumb. Dumb or not, complaining is always sinful. And where there is complaining in my heart, there is a lack of joy. Several days ago I came across a blog through a friend's blog and wanted to join with my friend and others in pursuing looking for joy.

The holidays can be a stretch for me. The busyness, the planning, and the wanting to do all the extras in the midst of all of the "we-have-to-dos". Because of God's grace, I want to grow. I don't want to be so busy that I miss my time with the Lord or miss the gifts of joy He has placed around me for His glory and for my enjoyment, so that's what's on my sidebar.

This month I'm going to LOOK for 100 joys. Hopefully I'll see hundreds more than the hundred. I know they are there. Our Savior is so gracious, so kind, so extravagantly good that they have to be there. So often I'm just not looking for them. So, now I'm looking. And I'm seeing. Which leads to rejoicing and gratefulness. And smiles. And joy. And growing in joy is what I have been pursuing since January, so what a fun way to end the year!

Blog...What's That?

March 8? Seriously, that was the last time I blogged? I'm feeling like time is flying by and I'm trying to grab it by the coattails as it zooms past! Mama, you've probably fallen out of your seat by now as you see a new entry listed!

So, now I don't know what to do...updates galore again or start from this day and move forward? A few updates just so I don't forget! =)

Since April, we've had 7 birthdays to celebrate, our anniversary and Mother's Day. Steve and I both turned 30 this year, Reagan 6, Sydney 4 and Jordyn 2. And we celebrated 9 years together!

Quick updates:

Me - Yep, I really turned 30. My sweet hubby took me away for my birthday and shopping for a night and day. It was very sweet of him, but I'm not sure we'll do it again for a long, long time. The going away part I hope we get to do again soon =). The shopping together part, not so much! It was a good and revealing getaway and Friday night was a lot of fun, but come Saturday some ugliness began to exude from my heart and has continued to be revealed through multiple situations. Although I'm so thankful for revelation, the Cross of my precious Savior, being able to repent, a husband who has been patient and kind, it has been a bit of a difficult season for me personally. But God is faithful and He is answering my prayers and for that I'll gladly take the pain of seeing my sin if it means I get to see more of His holiness and goodness!

Steve - He is a man of many talents! He's been working hard at work (as always), working hard on the house, and growing - by God's grace - in many different areas. And he still finds time to make us laugh everyday! The girls and I went to Orlando for a week and he worked his regular job during the day and worked on putting in new doors, painting, putting in trim, etc. in the house at night. Amazing!

Reagan - our little LuLu finished school right before we headed to Orlando and has been enjoying her summer so far! She just turned 6 and I love her quote of the day on June 4..."This is the best 6 year old day of my WHOLE life!" She got her first bike and has surprised me by how well she is riding. She continues to be a super helper and a super talker! =) She makes breakfast in the morning for her and her sisters, dusts the stairs, living room and our room, loves reading and making mud pies! She also loves visiting our neighbors and is asking more and more questions about the Lord which has made for some precious conversations lately!

Sydney - all you have to do is say "diaper" and you'll have her rolling! She is a stinker, but a very funny stinker! She also got a bike for her 4 year old birthday and has been doing really well riding, too! The first time she rode it she flipped down our little hill, so it took her a little while to get up the courage to try again. The other day I put them in the tub after they had been outside for hours, and I went to pull out her braid and realized her hair and scalp were just full of dirt. She informed me she was just trying to bury her head in the dirt. I had to wash her hair about 10 times and I'm sure I didn't get it all out! I never know what she's going to say...or do!

Jordyn - is 2 now! She is growing and changing and I'm so grateful for the changes I've seen in her over the last few months. She is a tough cookie, but God is at work in her and in us! She hasn't been passing out for the last probably month and a half, but she has started stomping her feet and hitting. BUT she's also started responding so much quicker, and loving on her sisters more, and talking a bit, and she LOVES to dance - especially when we listen to music in the car! I love when we turn into our driveway and she yells "HOME" and gets excited. Today I took her to our neighbors to play and she and I bounced on the trampoline and I didn't want to stop because I've never seen her laugh so hard! She was snorting she was laughing so hard!!

The house - we've been enjoying our home! I've been a little antsy to finish up some of the not so fun projects (like painting trim) and move onto some more fun projects, but we are also really trying to live life too and not be consumed by the home projects. Thankfully, Steve is better at balancing that than I am and having 3 little kids has limited the time I can paint, etc.! I want to enjoy the immense blessings we've been given, be wise with our time, and one day finish the windows! =) We have really been enjoying hours in our yard. The girls will play out there as long as we'll let them, Steve loves to work in the yard and so do I (I even got to mow for hours the other day which I love!) and we love to sit on our front porch and talk and read and watch the little animals run around. I've been going out almost every morning now to drink my coffee and read and journal, and there is much to be said about being outside and being still before the Lord before the whirl of the day begins!

OK, I do believe my Starbucks is wearing off so it's time to wrap up the updates. Oh, so much more has happened, but I think I'm going to start fresh and maybe pop in some of what I've missed blogging about over the last couple of months with pictures!

Dinner for My Honey!

I love doing special things for my special man! And a way to a man's heart is through his stomach, right? Steve has been working so hard (he always does), but this month, he has been kicking tail! He's one of the hardest working people I've ever met. He doesn't look for any recognition, but he does everything he does with excellence. The grace at work in his life has been so encouraging! Last week he was gone every night, except one, so Friday night I was able to make him a special dinner! We ate by candlelight by our Christmas tree with Jim Brickman and Celine Dion for entertainment! It was a wonderful night and I loved including the girls! They went shopping with me and were excited when it was time to go to bed, because they knew their Mommy was planning something special for their Daddy! (Steve played the part of "Prince Edward" while I prepared dinner! He went to the girls' "Royal Feast" they had made out of Legos and danced with his little princesses!)

So, here's what we had!
Crab Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce (Paula Deen)
Steak wrapped with Garlic Herb Butter and Spinach
Cheese and Wine Risotto
Roasted Asparagus
Shiraz

And of course, Chocolate Chip Cookies and Milk!

(Will add pictures soon!)

Making a House Our Home!

So, I've been off of blogging for a while and have much to catch up on! This one may be a little lengthy, but I know my brain won't remember long and I've already probably forgotten much! My goal was to update about the house frequently with lots of pictures, but that hasn't happened! So, here's the scoop!

On Friday, November 20th we closed on a home with beautiful potential in Woodstock, Georgia. It's an old farmhouse with a huge porch, a barn, a pool, a cool mudroom, beautiful trees, a little over 4 acres, 7 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, a keeping room, kitchen, family room, formal living and dining rooms, lots of junk in the yard, all kinds of fruit trees and who knows what's yet to be discovered! We have been so blessed! We were able to get a great deal on it, but it needs a ton of work! It has so much of what Steve and I have dreamed of in having a home and although the work it needs can be a little overwhelming at times, we are so grateful! We are grateful for all we get to learn through this process. I am grateful in thinking ahead in how we will be able to use our home to serve our family, the church, guests, etc.! I am grateful that this is one of the hardest things that Steve and I have ventured on and how it is teaching us to trust God more, be more intentional with our time, allowing us to see God's faithfulness and giving us opportunities to meet new people and learn so much. It is teaching me patience and contentment.

So, in 2 1/2 weeks since closing, here is what all has been done so far...

A new roof
20 out of 30 new windows have been installed
Reagan and Sydney's bathroom has been demolished (almost all the way)
New tub has been put in their bathroom
Stairs to master bedroom have been demolished
Ceilings in both girls' rooms and in family room have been scraped of popcorn
Ceiling in master has been scraped of popcorn
More wallpaper than can possibly be imagined in one house keeps being discovered =)
Wallpaper has been removed in both girls room
Drywall has been removed in Reagan and Sydney's room
New drywall is up in their rooms
Carpet has been removed in Jordyn's room...off the wall!
Carpet was added throughout the house so we could close, now it's being removed again
Trees have been trimmed around the house so roof could be put on and so it will be ready to be painted
Trim and ceiling in family room has been primed
New fans are up in family room
Electrical is repaired in Jordyn's room
2 new hot water heaters are in
Tons of phone calls have been made
Supplies have been bought for the new stairs
I have paint colors picked out for all the rooms we' hope to paint before we move in

Thanks to the Battaglias, Nick Campagna, Matt from work, Mom and Dad, Scott Snyder, Brad Miller, Kim Pfaller who have so kindly served us over the last couple of weeks. We are so appreciative.

We've had some great workers so far, too. If anyone in this area needs any kind of work done on your house, I can give you some great recommendations!!

Please pray for some warmer dry weather so we can get the house painted. Also, for wisdom and strength for my extremely hard working husband. This has been his busiest month so far for Steve's job, on top of that he's working so hard on the house and in taking care of all his girls. And we head to Orlando to be with our family for Christmas for a week! I am amazed at the grace I've seen in him! Please pray he does not get sick as our bodies are still not adjusted to this cold weather! Oh, and that we get a better quote for the a/c/heaters that we need. They are coming in pretty high. This is a short season and before we know it, we'll be in! We want to glorify God through this season, and although some days it seems as if we are in way over our heads, I know that in His strength we will make it through!!

This Psalm has been on my heart this last week and has been so helpful!

"I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." Ps 121:1-2

Now for some pictures!

Visit from the Traugotts!

We were so excited to get a visit from David, Kelly, Alyssa, Meredith and Brooklyn a couple of weekends ago! We talked and laughed and enjoyed catching up with our dear friends! We played a 4 hour game of dominoes, took 6 little girls out to dinner, worshiped at church together, went and looked at our soon to be house (Kelly was a lot braver than I was in the barn!), Steve and David took the girls for a walk in on one of the trails in the neighborhood, Kelly and I got a quick cup of Starbucks and we talked and laughed and talked some more! How grateful we are for our sweet friends! The girls played really well together! In fact, today I called for Sydney and she informed me that her name is now Alyssa! =)

Berry Patch Farm

Yesterday Sissy, Mark, Madeleine, Ainsley and Emma stopped in for a quick visit on their way home from Blue Ridge! We had a great time visiting...it went by super fast! The weather held out for us, too, so we were able to go to Berry Patch Farm to pick out some pumpkins! We walked around and looked at the few little animals they had and then took the hayride to the pumpkin patch. The girls had fun looking for their own little pumpkins and gourds. (Reagan has been wanting to buy gourds to decorate the house with for weeks!!) Then we had popcorn and boiled peanuts and watched the kiddos play on the play ground for a while! It was a fun afternoon. Then we headed home for tacos. Reagan was so excited about having a sleep over in her room with her cousins. All the kids were pretty worn out! It was funny watching Mark try to keep his eyes open as we were talking, too!

Now I need to go and figure out what all I'm going to make with my pumpkin!