GROWING GOODSON'S

My 1,000 Gifts List #663 - #677

2011-04-04T22:59:00.004-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ MY sisters

~ babies loving on babies

~ cousins

~ glow sticks

~ stray pink hair ties at the bottom of the washer

~ it's piggy tail partner found in the dryer

~ runny noses slowing down

~ just hanging with family

~ baths in the sink

~ connection with a sister till 5am

~ a cook in the family

~ little boys

~ baby dimples

~ one more stop, off we go!

My 1,000 Gifts List #653 - #662

2011-03-30T09:32:00.005-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ it went quickly

~ arriving safely

~ just me & my 3 favorite people

~ introducing my family to WI cheese curds

~ RLR, it does wonders on em

~ another "Loo" lions & tigers, & bears oh my!

~ cheese tasting with my Big Girl

~ playing in the sand

~ The Adventure continues at my sisters!

My 1,000 Gifts List #647 - #652

2011-03-26T08:02:00.001-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ all the little treasures I found when packing a certain little girls suitcase

~ a little extra snuggle time does a heart good

~ little ones building their mighty minds

~ Preacher Man makes my life easier

~ a Jewel to pack in this time

~ almost ready

My 1,000 Gifts List #631 - #646

2011-03-25T21:37:00.008-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ she's only one but she knows exactly what she wants

~ preparing for our adventure

~ she said she was tired

~ she took a 2 hour nap

~ gifts for everyone

~ she can't wait to give

~ mercy: needing, teaching, receiving, changing

~ a comment that made me laugh

~ the gem has been on my list before (she just didn't know it!)

~ she is so different than than the first and I LOVE it!

~ something to look forward to when we return

~ He's waiting for me

~ counting down with my favorite 3 year old

~ toilet paper in shreds because she didn't know how to start a new roll

~ uncontainable giggles when I saw it

~ The Preacher Man knew

My 1,000 Gifts List #624 - #630

2011-03-24T23:18:00.003-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ little girls sitting on bathroom counters

~ she brought Jewels to us

~ friend to wait with little ones while I went in

~ learning the difference

~ hearts open, lies relieved, set free by truth

~ following Jesus

~ proud of our some of our youth kids

My 1,000 Gifts List #617 - #623

2011-03-23T10:18:00.004-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ being invited to join them for breakfast

~ bedroom turned zoo with ever (stuffed) animal imaginable

~ our order is in

~ snow pants in March

~ His leading

~ slow dancing with my Preacher Man

My 1,000 Gifts List #606 - #616

2011-03-22T20:36:00.003-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ she's decided

~ the smile I get when I get her out of her crib

~ basement tag

~ her contagious giggles

~ the anticipation of a date with daddy

~ so many playgrounds so little time

~ a new friend

~ hearing all about it

~ entering the tunnel yet again

~ wisdom confirmed

~ tomorrow is Wednesday not Thursday

My 1,000 Gifts List #605

2011-03-21T23:57:00.001-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ freedom

My 1,000 Gifts List #599 - #604

2011-03-20T23:19:00.004-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ french braid inspired by the love of an aunt

~ Preacher Man doing what he does best with the ones he invited

~ how baby girls lets me know she ready to go

~ I know she has it in her

~ a guest speaker bringing it

~ hanging with the newlyweds

My 1,000 Gifts List #586 - #598

2011-03-19T21:31:00.006-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I'm thanking God everyday for:

~ getting stuff done that needs to be done

~ happy girls depsite my need for an attitude adjustment

~ grace for this girl

~ she wanted it all pink because she knows that's what her Moni likes

~ she says her papa will be alright with it

~ she's right

~ little one wanting the hood up

~ a Preacher Man that filled my heart by filling my fridge & cupboards so I didn't have to

~ seeing progress

~ family oasis

~ releasing things that don't need to be

~ fresh filling of things that do

~ things being put in place

My 1,000 Gifts List #577 - #585

2011-03-18T22:17:00.004-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I thank God everyday for:

~ an adjustment not just of the body but of the heart

~ sliding & striding

~ a clean Jewel

~ strolling

~ lots of sunshine

~ homemade granola

~ meals & muffins for when we return

~ it was productive & personal

~ everything done as one

My 1,000 Gifts List #567 - #576

2011-03-17T10:35:00.002-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I thank God everyday for:

~ a baby girl following her "goggy" everywhere

~ sisters going on a (pretend) date together

~ burning the last batch of cookies

~ long walks, happy dogs, & petting horses

~ etching the image soul deep

~ all 3 walking towards me: little one in the pack, big one on her bike, & him the one that knows me

~ a green dinner devoured

~ a green diaper that matched her green heart shirt that matched her sisters

~ cultivating a life long friendship

My 1,000 Gifts List #560 - #566

2011-03-16T15:16:00.002-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I thank God everyday for things like:

~ how her cheeks jiggle when she walks

~ a 3 year old being led by the Spirit

~ The Preacher Man in a pink chefs hat

~ affirming young leaders

~ her hoarse little cry

~ learning to trust the One who is trustworthy

My 1,000 Gifts List #551 - #560

2011-03-15T08:35:00.002-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I thank God everyday for things like:

~ ties to hold it open & secret compartments found for the first time

~ that one crazy curl

~ paper dolls that are played with for hours

~ her carrying his teddy around

~ little ones learning life lessons

~ just being when hearts are aching

~ getting them a little longer

~ needing extra chairs around the dinner table

~ laughing so hard it hurts

My 1,000 Gifts List #547 - #551

2011-03-14T09:13:00.005-04:00

A thankful heart is a happy heart, that's why I thank God everyday for things like:

~ 2 girls, 4 boots, tv that serves as a mirror, & lots of dancing

~ an oatmeal covered 1 year old

~my husband knows I am beautiful (added by The Preacher Man, thanks babe)

~ a surprise week long house guest

~ grace for when things don't get done in time

My 1,000 Gifts List #546

2011-03-13T23:22:00.002-04:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ finding hidden treasures everywhere

My 1,000 Gifts List #537- #545

2011-03-12T19:15:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ having the two sweetest girls in the world on my lap and being privileged to instill a love of reading in them

~ cooking for the kingdom

~ she thought of it herself, this giving thing is growing

~ seeing the Parables as a family

~ one family recovering, the other rejoicing, both receiving what we have to offer

~ taking her with so she can see for herself

~ seeing that the miracle baby favors his mama's side

~ not knowing what, but knowing it's Him

My 1,000 Gifts List #527- #536

2011-03-11T17:07:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ a date at the "Loo" with my big girl

~ she asked, how could I say no even though we were frozen on arrival

~ she remembered that she forgot to say "Thank You" so we went back

~ her, as she stumbled over words at the excitement of telling The Preacher Man all about it

~ they are learning to wink

~ she learned quick but was teasing to her daddy

~ eating together

~ hearing his vision

~ teaching em nertz

My 1,000 Gifts List #518 - #526

2011-03-10T23:18:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ things to do but no time restraint

~ they were so cute & fuzzy we could hardly tear ourselves away

~ a lunch guest

~ encouraging something hard but good

~ interruptions in the form of cute little girls

~ laughing at a little one that will do anything for a laugh

~ round 3

~ knowing where were going

~ the excitement of what tomorrow brings

My 1,000 Gifts List #511 - #517

2011-03-09T20:07:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ walking in with fresh flowers on the table

~ round 2 of you chase me & I chase you

~ a baby girl that snuggled ALL DAY LONG!

~ a big girl that didn't stop singing, moving, talking, dancing, giggling, jumping, smiling, asking ALL DAY LONG!

~ a hubby that helped stock the cupboards

~ a little girl counting down the days till she goes on a date with her mommy

~ having more than enough

My 1,000 Gifts List #505 - #510

2011-03-08T21:25:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ more prayers answered; he is doing much better

~ talking to the two that have been constant on my mind

~ you chase me & I chase you

~ hearing the giggle float up from the basement

~ some relief

~ a baby dolls bottle hidden in the pile, just another reminder that I have GIRLS!

My 1,000 Gifts List # 499 - #504

2011-03-07T21:38:00.001-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ girls in dresses just because

~ half way there and only 2 months in

~ a top bunk turned fiery furnace turned lions den

~ breakfast for dinner

~ finally picking a name for our year

~ 2011 The Year of Ahab

My 1,000 Gifts List # 491 - #498

2011-03-06T21:12:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ church at home

~ practicing for the game

~ the time I had with my lil sis

~ leftovers that make easy meals

~ unexpected night in, thanks to the pretty white stuff outside

~ little girls on bikes & roller gators

~ wii had lots of fun as a family

~ how one of our craziest days of the week became our most relaxing day of the week

My 1,000 Gifts List # 477 - #490

2011-03-05T23:55:00.001-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ fever gone

~ a moment of refection alone

~ 28 laps up & down the hall by a daddy with a daughter on his back in my honor

~ little hand prints to remember how they were on this birthday

~ a spotless house

~ air hockey for the first time with her daddy

~ flowers from our vows

~ a delicious homemade meal that I didn't have to make or clean up

~ a sister here to help celebrate

~ showing off new skills in the basement

~ trick candles

~ dreaming of the future

~ welcoming 28

My 1,000 Gifts List #468 - #476

2011-03-04T23:27:00.002-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ blonde hair, big blue eyes all with a smile so sweet

~ a sister that loves to cook

~ the opportunity to show it again

~ dreaming of what's next

~ The Preacher Man is home!!!

~ hearing all that God is doing in his heart

~ the baby's reaction to seeing her daddy despite the fever

~ a 3 year old somehow knowing he's home and waking to welcome him

~ the eve of 28

My 1,000 Gifts List #459 - #467

2011-03-03T23:59:00.002-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ blue skies, green grass peaking through, & clear sidewalks perfect conditions for a walk for two, bike ride for one & stroll for another

~ a sister and a daughter developing something of their own

~ a nap that took away a migraine

~ a clean kitchen

~ an experiment started with promises to continue when they see each other in a few weeks

~ puzzles are no puzzle for the the baby girl

~ date night with a sister

~ hearing The Preacher Man's heart even through mile that separate

My 1,000 Gifts List #451 - #458

2011-03-02T20:31:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ nursing a baby back to sleep in the wee hours of the morning

~ Quality time connecting with The Preacher Man before the sun wakes

~ a classic at story time

~ more new books that a big girl can't wait to read

~ puzzles for all ages

~ finding a wonderful accompaniment for our warm soup

~ chasing little girls

~ shrills of delight filling the halls

My 1,000 Gifts List #449 - #450

2011-03-01T22:55:00.002-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ for a computer even if the internet is not working when I go to write thanks

~ internet that starts working just before bed so I don't miss a day of the dare

My 1,000 Gifts List #440 - #448

2011-02-28T20:41:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ turning to Him who can (& did) turn our morning into dancing

~ 4 loads done

~ time alone with my favorite lil sis

~ matching again

~ another letter

~ good news that puts hopes high for her

~ an ecstatic one year old greeting me at the door

~ soul talking with a sister

~ The Preacher Man looking fine with his new do

My 1,000 Gifts List #433 - #439

2011-02-28T00:41:00.000-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ the challenge to give extravagantly like our Creator does

~ a helping hand in the form of a sister

~ the lil one knows where they go

~ marker all over her still dimpled 3 year old hands because she drew pictures for everyone

~ the red head youth that asked me what she drew for him so he could tell her thanks

~ pillow talk

My 1,000 Gifts List #419 - #432

2011-02-26T14:34:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ knowing who your leaders are

~ what He told me to be praying for

~ petting puppies

~ escalator tag

~ her wide eyed, open mouth, speechless excitement when the clinique lady asked if she wanted to try some

~ I didn't even have to ask her, she offered

~ another silly prayer from this mama's heart answered thanks to the clinique lady

~ how she LOVES babies even though she is one

~ she asked for a story so I told her one of a girl that became a queen

~ being on the other side of the tunnel

~ that the little one loves her greens

~ listening to her tell her daddy about the lip gloss

~ better yet listening to her tell her daddy about the girl that became a queen

~ how much I love My Preacher Man

My 1,000 Gifts List #408 - #418

2011-02-25T22:21:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ being snowed in for most of the day

~ a big girl that wants her aunt to do EVERYTHING for her & with her while she can

~ a baby girl that still wants her mama to do everything

~ being an alligator

~ games, games, & more games

~ a girl learning what it means to be a good sport

~ the littlest beating everyone fair and square

~ the little one clueless to her accomplishments

~ being with family, just BEING with famliy

~ The Preacher Man showing kindness to a neighbor

~ within moments kindness being poured back onto The Preacher Man

~ a jewel that no longer sounds like a beast

My 1,000 Gifts List #400 - #407

2011-02-24T18:29:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ the privilege of imparting into the next generation

~ a powerful ending

~ The Prodigal Dog returns yet again

~ my girls

~ more brain candy

~ nursing a babe to sleep while listening the babes big sister laugh with their daddy as he tucks her in

~ an early bed time

My 1,000 Gifts List #390- #400

2011-02-23T23:55:00.000-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ she's here and staying for almost 2 weeks!

~ the sound of giggling girls as they play with their aunt

~ breakfast for 32 made & waiting for the oven

~ a forest & an ocean

~ having enough

~ fear broken

~ it didn't taste too bad

~ an amazing night with 32 world changers

~ what a blessing she's already been

~ sleeping in my bed tonight

~ getting to take care of my baby

My 1,000 Gifts List #384- #389

2011-02-22T20:05:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ a sister on her way

~ the moment it dawns on me: the girl is growing

~ preparing for an encounter

~ family canoe trip down the hallway that involved raging rapids

~ a big girl staying up to welcome her aunt

My 1,000 Gifts List #374- #383

2011-02-21T23:15:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ preparing to plan

~ many welcome hugs from my favorite little people after being gone all morning

~ the Word read, the Word spoken, the Word received

~ my better half as a robot

~ being invited and having the guts to join in the fun

~ her cheeks

~ apology accepted with encouragement given in return

~ watching her profile as the dim hall light peered through while she imitated the robot

~ it's facebook official

My 1,000 Gifts List #367- #373

2011-02-20T23:41:00.002-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ my matching lady bugs

~ opportunity to impart into the next generation of influences

~ knowing who comes first

~ The Preacher Man doing what he does best

~ spontaneous party at our place

~ making him think

~ sharing stories that lead the opening up of hearts

My 1,000 Gifts List #361- #366

2011-02-19T10:47:00.002-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ that one curl at the nape of her neck

~ "I trust God to....help me not be afraid" she tells me to fill in the blank

~ such concentration, such seriousness, such a work of art

~ more words everyday

~ It's on the back of her shirt "Princess" declaring who she is before she even knows it

~ a puppy covered in white flakes after braving the outdoors

~ girls in bed & an evening alone with The Preacher Man

My 1,000 Gifts List #349- #360

2011-02-18T21:26:00.005-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ 11 hours of sleep

~ a hubby home all day

~ a girl thrilled to show off her picture with sparlies on it

~ she didn't want to get off

~ making a baby's day by letting her play outside

~ a nap

~ humility that produced humility that brought forgiveness to both

~ the pink stuff

~ I couldn't take my eyes off the big, bright, beautiful moon

~ everything in her room has finally found a place

~ feeling like a new woman thanks to a new do

~ finding things to be thankful for when I feel like this

~ bedtime

My 1,000 Gifts List #340- #348

2011-02-17T17:16:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ Christmas all over again thanks to a toy rotation

~ beautiful blooming flowers on my table

~ baby girl discovering books with her mama

~ deer playing

~ little boot prints in the melting snow

~ pruning of the heart, it hurts but it will help it grow

~ a little girls excitement about sharing a bunk with her Aunt

~ muffins mixed and ready for the morning

~ a bubble bath for this needy body

My 1,000 Gifts List #331- #339

2011-02-16T21:23:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ a little bit for everyone

~ helping her get to the bubble gum in the middle for the first time

~ does the little girl in Target go to our church, I wonder, as I overhear her "Daddy you say 100 I say 10" and remember Sunday's Rap and giggle to myself.

~ walking into a beautiful mess

~ the humor of it much to a 3 year olds demise

~ a dinner guest that didn't mind being put to work

~ being prepared

~ putting up bunk beds that one day sisters will share takes me back

My 1,000 Gifts List #318 - #330

2011-02-15T11:42:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ warm shower that washes away more than dirt

~ teaching little girls when you care you pray

~ practicing what I preach in front of them

~ a quick learner with powerful prayers

~ a belt for a leash

~ a puppy that's a good sport

~ wondering & hoping that it's true

~ sisters sharing a sucker

~ little ones walking out what we've written on our heart

~ fresh air for a musty soul

~ Preacher Man asked Big Girl what she loved most about herself, she said "I love my heart" He asked, "Why do you love your heart?" with big smile Big Girl tells, "Because it has Jesus in it and I like that!"

~ choosing to be all in when what I want is to throw the towel in

~ a blue moon

My 1,000 Gifts List #317

2011-02-14T23:58:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~My Valentines:

The Preacher Man, the love of my life, my best friend, my lover, my better half

The Big Girl, my Jer Bear, my lovie, my sweets, my Jeri Berry, my girl, my mirror

The (not so) Baby Girl, my little ham, the hurricane, my sunshine, my mama's girl

My puppy love, my pups

My angel babies, my gift of Grace & my Warrior Boy

My 1,000 Gifts List #305 - # 316

2011-02-13T06:47:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ her version of "He's Got The Whole World in His Hands" as she washed hers

~ keeping it real this morning about being blessed

~ matching sequence once again :)

~ a mama's girl

~ an exciting start for dear friends

~ toys from my youth are toys from theirs

~ a decision made for their sake

~ hearing about the night

~ letting her read all three "talking books" before bed

~ watching the next one with The Preacher Man

~ plans for making tomorrow special

My 1,000 Gifts List #296 - #304

2011-02-12T23:41:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ teaching a little girl that numbers are an important part of life

~ The Preacher Man bringing a Jewel, a lifeline, just in time

~ an unplanned, much needed field trip

~ research for what might be to come

~ fresh words to experience

~ didn't sound appetizing but after reading reviews we tried it and we liked it

~ she came alone and it was good

~ It made me giggle that he had tights under to stay warm

~ watching a it makes me want the whole book set & to see the newest one

My 1,000 Gifts List #287 - #295

2011-02-11T22:27:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ doing everything as a family

~ a little girl that loves cleaning the toilet

~ a well baby

~ divide and conquer

~ a better understanding

~ a Preacher Man that listens with ears & heart

~ a little pampering

~ learning some tricks of the trade

My 1,000 Gifts List #273 - #286

2011-02-10T08:09:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ girls playing happily together all morning long

~ a baby girl starting to find words

~ a big sister encouraging those words

~ homemade bread

~ recognizing it and being willing to change

~ 3 hour naps for two tired girls

~ a baby girl that can't contain her excitement as her daddy walks in the door

~ an easy meal that includes homemade bread
(because everyone knows any meal is better with homemade bread)

~ an easy meal that little ones devour

~ a little girls reaction at the news of an aunt coming soon

~ planning on purpose

~ a snuggle puppy

~ a Preacher Man that wants to give me the world even when it's not practical

My 1,000 Gifts List #264 - #272

2011-02-09T23:01:00.005-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ compromise is key

~ babies on the mend

~ a little alone time with each princess because her sister was sleeping beauty for awhile

~ playing with my girl; feel young again

~ no more test needed

~ chit-chatting with sisters states away

~ a hubby holding the fort down with sleeping beauties in bed

~ a little bball action with some ballers

~ an unexpected gift that makes temp taking easier

My 1,000 Gifts List #254 - #263

2011-02-08T10:44:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ fever gone

~ loved ones checking in on my girl

~ getting to report she's mostly back to her happy, bouncy, sweet-spirit self

~ hours of ~~exercise~~ fun, chasing each other on the hand-me-down toy

~ dancing with my girls

~ The Preacher Man and six of his fellas busting out the snow covered drive in record time

~ The fellas staying for dinner, charades, & wii tennis tournament

~ baby girl hanging with the fellas and loving it

~ easy clean up

My 1,000 Gifts List #243 - #253

2011-02-07T07:45:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ a baby girl in Packer pj's

~ watching The Preacher Man carry 3 laundry baskets to the basement at once

~ naps at 8:30AM

~ a baby sister worried about her big sister

~ even though my girls are sick right now they have life of this I am eternally grateful.

~ that little old lady giving a compliment of a lifetime

~ even with fever high and spirits low He used the sick one to speak life into me

~ when all mommy had to offer were streams of love from a raw heart & red eyes, daddy found the giggles hidden deep within & brought health to everyone's soul

~ The Preacher Man finishing the laundry that he carried & I started
(we make a good team!)

~ a light bulb turned it on, who knew

~ remembering my list after it got erased

My 1,000 Gifts List #242

2011-02-06T23:29:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ The Lombardi trophy is coming back home because we are the Champions!

My 1,000 Gifts List #235 - #241

2011-02-05T23:20:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ first letter learned

~ icicle eating

~ soccer in the hallway

~ finally finishing the footballs

~ little one learning to be gentle

~ Packer gear ready for tomorrow!

~ nervous wedding proposals

My 1,000 Gifts List #220 - #234

2011-02-04T23:40:00.005-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ a sensitive sweetheart that loves even when she's never met

~ a promise

~ a kind young lad lending a helping hand

~ a little girls loudly cheering every time she saw one

~ a proud mama not caring how loud she cheered

~ that same proud mama secretly hoping all would hear and know who they were cheering for this Sunday

~ a picnic in the car

~ a patient man

~ warm winter coats

~ 6 stores, 4 hours, and only 2 minor meltdowns (that were quickly taken care of)

~ a full fridge

~ celebrating our Grace

~ girls in sequence

~ Soup's On at the Anderson's

~ sleeping angles

My 1,000 Gifts List #212 - #219

2011-02-03T20:41:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ being back where I belong with my 2 favorite little people all day

~ help getting ready for the big game

~ unexpected, extra time with Him

~ the first of many ponytails

~ news that a long awaited China doll will soon be home

~ trip to the ER avoided

~ a Preacher Man that makes dinner so I could finish the laces

~ starting the story behind my challenge

My 1,000 Gifts List #201 - 211

2011-02-02T20:57:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ new & old friendship with a lasting impression

~ news of answered prayers being birthed

~ a baby girl that crashed the whole flight home

~ witnessing the snow covered world from thousands of miles above

~ seeing The Preacher Man & The Big Girl walking hand in hand to come find the other half

~ my family together again

~ realizing that even though my girls were states away from each other they wore matching outfits

~ calling to tell my sister about my matching girls (my sister and I would do this without knowing it too, it's big family joke now)

~ realizing that on the same day that my girls were states away and matching, my sister and I were states away and matching too!

~ Home Sweet Home!

~ ZZZZ's in my own bed!

My 1,000 Gifts List #200

2011-02-01T23:55:00.001-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ a river of refreshing flowing within

My 1,000 Gifts List #199

2011-01-31T22:55:00.000-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~being treated like a queen

My 1,000 Gifts List #189 - #198

2011-01-30T14:27:00.005-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ a full but quiet house

~ one meal together amidst travels

~ a puppy that knows when one is missing

~ a little time alone with the baby girl

~extra crackers from the subway man, thanks to the little one

~ a one year old sleeping in my lap like a newborn

~city lights from above

~ we were going, they were going, so glad our paths crossed

~ safe travels

~wonderful travel companion

My 1,000 Gifts List #181 - #188

2011-01-29T19:35:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ letting her watch it again

~ a lunch guest

~ leftovers that were better left over

~ a gift of daily bread is in order

~ little wet footprints on the bathroom rug

~ a bare baby bum after bath

~ hearing all that a big girl learned as she retold the story

~ The Preacher Man's return

My 1,000 Gifts List #173 - #180

2011-01-28T13:53:00.007-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ a little girls words, "Dear Jesus please help us find that block that we lost. Amen!"

~ a letter from grandma written with flesh not typed out by technology

~ all day conversation with The Preacher Man thanks to technology

~ a little girl buying new "heels" for both her mommy & daddy

~ dishes that get clean with the turn of a knob

~ baby girl lighting up at the sound of The Preacher Man's voice

~ The Preacher Man & The Big Girl singing Jesus Loves Me over the phone together

~ the anticipations of a late night phone call from My Lover

My 1,000 Gifts List #165 - #172

2011-01-27T17:41:00.005-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ blocks that become beds

~ all she bought was a 1/2 gallon chocolate milk, cookies, & chips....the women had no shame

~ mouth wide open catching huge Heaven flakes

~ baby girl reverting to hand & knees just for kicks

~ weekly blessing that allows love to cultivate

~ white walls & racket balls

~ last minute double date

My 1,000 Gifts List #156 - #165

2011-01-26T21:29:00.003-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ good morning hugs & kisses, sweet tired smiles, bed head, squinty eyes & matching froggy footie pj's

~ the baby girl doesn't notice a difference

~ the big girl notices a difference in the color......of their dresses and that's it :)

~ we were created for this world but the next

~ we do not sew these tears in vain

~ all the different colors so we don't ever get bored

~ fresh air for all

~ hand-off is successful

~ The Preacher Man speaking my language

~ the quiet of the night

My 1,000 Gifts List #146 - #155

2011-01-25T19:18:00.006-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ most important meal shared as family even though The Preacher Man had to get to work

~ baby dolls & their birthday parties

~ a daddy/daughter dance recital right in my living room

~ purple leotards, pink tutus, & tights that tie them together

~ the look as Big Girl held high letting all know she is safe & secure in her daddy's arms

~ a new way to use old bananas

~ eyes of a baby girl that speak

~ groceries with girls in bed

~ His reminders

~ a new way of thinking slowly taking root

My 1,000 Gifts List #138 - #145

2011-01-24T20:58:00.005-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for things like:

~ hearing The Preacher Man workout this morning, makes me giggle when....when I'm not working out with him

~ little socks in the laundry

~ little toes that go in them

~ liquid gold for cloth diapers

~ clean clothes

~ a helping husband

~ baby dolls in big dresses

~ a night of laughing at the little silly things & the sweet 3

~ another chance tomorrow

My 1,000 Gifts List #129 - #137

2011-01-23T22:34:00.004-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude things like:

~ eager minds ready for the challenge

~ baby girl needing a little extra mama time

~ fresh everyday for the taking is manna for the soul

~ egg-less cookie dough = guiltless taste testing

~ stars for my girls

~ My TEAM going to the SUPER BOWL

~ room dark. girl already tucked tight. waiting for next door to shut. baby sister nursed and now snug. here is her chance with quiet plea, "Mommy, lay down with me."

~ no hesitation. I snuggle deep. we talk about our "favorite thing" that day. giggle light. soon more kisses. then the real good night.

~ tunnel of chaos taking us to a deeper level

My 1,000 Gifts List #117 - #128

2011-01-22T20:39:00.006-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude things like:

~ a baby girl's love to put anything and everything on her head, especially her daddy's hats

~ nap time that was 2 hours early and lasted an hour longer than normal

~ a big girl in tears because she likes her Havey so much she wants to go to class with her so they can play together

~ a daddy tagging along

~ pushing jewels to her limit & not being disappointed

~ one very swollen with life the other only just begun, communing together, and I witness

~ another prayer answered which means clean clothes in my near future

~ a satisfied jewels ready to take us where we please

~ an entertaining phone call from my favorite father-in-law

~ knowing that getting ready tomorrow morning will be just a little easier

~ butterflies because a new adventure begins tomorrow morning

~ game night with The Preacher Man

My 1,000 Gifts List #109 - #116

2011-01-21T22:51:00.006-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for:

~ pancakes & my favorite people for breakfast

~ spending family day with a face full of snow and arms full of giggling girls

~ a family to have a family day with

~ continual work He is doing on this heart

~ a magnificent meal that I didn't have to make

~ special time with my big girl

~ a young girl given the rite of passage into womanhood

~ my girl getting a glimpse into what is to come

My 1,000 Gifts List #99 - #108

2011-01-20T19:52:00.005-05:00

Learning to live a life of thanks by growing in gratitude for:

~ a morning meal full of fruit, other yummy food, & fellowship

~ only 2 weeks in and already in triple digits

~ little old ladies that talk to the baby girl while we fill our cart

~ filling hearts along with carts with a shopping companion over the age of 3

~ a solution that solved everyone's problem

~ naps were had by all

~ strawberries for dessert

~ a tub full of little hands & feet

~ a daddy dancing with his daughters

~ new worship cd's

My 1,000 Gifts List #93 - #98

2011-01-19T01:38:00.004-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ errands getting done

~ a husband that can & does cook when I'm not home

~ my cadre girls that I have come to know and love

~ a puppy dog that, once again, got returned safely

~ a breakfast date for in the morning

My 1,000 Gifts List #85 - #92

2011-01-18T16:32:00.003-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ continuing a tradition

~ an in-home progressive dinner

~ taking time to love each other with words

~ you reproduce who you are, The Big Girl is my proof

~ a big sister that shared her blanket, that was his blanket, with her little sister

~ a little sister that adored snuggling her big sisters blanket at least for a little while

~ reminder to pass the vision on to my daughters

My 1,000 Gifts List #77 - #84

2011-01-17T23:08:00.008-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ being a part of The Preacher Man's work life

~ eyes that say more than words ever could

~ 20 minutes of pure refreshment under a soft blanket

~ exploring our winter wonderland

~ a one year old snow surfing on her sled

~ trying a new recipe, that I had most of the ingredients for, and loving it

~ have a little extra to budget with

~ little purses on the floor by the front door

My 1,000 Gifts List #64 - #76

2011-01-16T23:33:00.005-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ living in the land of the free

~ freedom to worship whom I choose

~ choosing to worship the only One that's worthy

~ a little girl that obeyed (and put her shoes & socks)

~ that same little girl with her shoes on the wrong feet

~ a husband that loves with his whole heart

~ tweens that were climbing over chairs because they didn't want to hold the opposite genders hand

~ a unsure young man that took a step of faith, in faith, and learned that faith builds faith

~ a pastors wife that spoke up and blew the roof off with her words

~ an encouraging prophetic word

~ a baby girl that's still nursing

~ a phone call from a best friend

~ old ways of thinking being removed and His way of thinking being put in place

My 1,000 Gifts List #55 - #63

2011-01-15T23:30:00.006-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ Babysitters that I trust

~ A little girl that would rather be in worship than be in class

~ ashes turned to beauty

~ beauty that is shared

~ our youth leaders

~ those that have gone before

~ a 9 month swollen abdomen that Dr.'s said would never be

~ a baby girl that gives countless kisses to a mama that's finally home

~ The Green Bay Packers

My 1,000 Gifts List #53 - #54

2011-01-14T10:44:00.004-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ praying for wee ones before they are born as I make their baby baskets

~ being refreshed

~ divine appointments

My 1,000 Gifts List #47 - #52

2011-01-13T10:48:00.003-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ "A kind word takes away fear" is what she said, "A soft answer turns away wrath" is what we are memorizing.

~ knowing she gets the idea & words will come.

~ His words to hide in our heart

~ I ask The Big Girl who her best friend is. I gave a look that says, "Mama you already know! Do you really even have to ask?" With a huge grin and a twinkle in her eye she replies with one simple word, "Haven!"

~ A family sword fight (wrapping paper tubes)

~ laughing so hard I cried

My 1,000 Gifts List #34 - #46

2011-01-12T07:59:00.005-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ waking up to a fresh blanket of Heaven's crystals

~ the muscles to help The Preacher Man push a broke down snow blower in the garage

~ an overdue visit with a dear friend

~ a baby girl & a big girl that enjoyed the visit just as much as I did

~ fresh ground whole wheat

~ healthy cookies that don't taste healthy

~ buying baby boy stuff while shopping solo
(No, I'm not announcing anything it was for baby baskets that I put together for the church)

~ compassion for an insecure, tongue tie, stumbling stock boy

~ the ability to live on a budget

~ a safe Haven that sometimes looks like a hurricane

~ dining as one after flying solo

~ a free night at home with The Preacher Man!

**The Preacher Man would like to add a shovel to the list today**

My 1,000 Gifts List #26 - #33

2011-01-11T18:49:00.003-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ daily bread that fills the heart not the belly

~ learning how to learn

~ a one year old tromping around in her snow boots inside because she likes the sound they make

~ sisters

~ older serving the younger

~ creativity is starting to slowly flow in our home

~ a thoughtful husband

~ a warm bed

My 1,000 Gifts List #19 - #25

2011-01-10T22:09:00.000-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ Grace showing up when I didn't know she was there; she even brought her friend Patience with her, how thoughtful!

~ a little girls eyes dancing as she told me about her sledding adventure

~ a daddy's eyes doing the same dance

~ chubby little fingers reaching for mine

~ breakfast for dinner

~ a candle lit bubble bath

~ the ending was better than the beginning

My 1,000 Gifts List #13 - #18

2011-01-09T20:15:00.005-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ Worshiping as a family in the House of the Lord

~ saying "No" to what we want and saying "Yes" to the One we want

~ knowing that I am not alone in this 21 day journey

~ the worries of a mama diminish & joy filling as God answered the question her heart asked

~ good books that help lead the way

~ The Good Book that is The Way

My 1,000 Gifts List #5 - #12

2011-01-08T07:33:00.003-05:00

Today I'm growing in gratitude by being thankful for:

~ a little girl that wants to pray with her daddy when she wakes early in the morning

~ a daddy that wants to teach his daughter to pray

~ changing the way we did Christmas and making all gifts for Him

~ an exchange of vows & a new couple celebrating the beginning

~ this couple realizing with much pride we are no longer newlyweds

~ an old couple dancing & enjoying it till the end

~ 2 young men of God trying to find their way & us having the privilege to be apart of their journey

~ a 3 year old that is now dreaming of the day she will walk down the aisle in the pretty white dress

My 1,000 Gifts List

2011-01-07T16:00:00.005-05:00

I'm taking up the gratitude challenge this year. Everyday I'm going to post a few things that I'm grateful for. That's it, that's what this blog is going to be this year. Just a few words everyday (since I'm starting on the 7th this year I'll go till January 7th 2012) letting you know what I am thankful for that day. I want to see how long it takes to get to 1,000. My inspiration for this came from Ann Voskamp. I love her blog and from her 1,000 gifts list, although she is now on 2,170. She even wrote a book, which I can't wait to read it, about her journey of gratitude. So here starts my gratitude journey. It's going to be simple, heartfelt, everyday, and I hope life changing. Will you join me?

My Gift List #1-4

~ the beginning of a new challenge

~ a winter walk with the family in the cool crisp snow

~ little girls and their dance moves

~ how warm & cozy my house feels with the aroma of orange peels & cinnamon sticks boil on my stove together

Speaking of...

2010-10-23T22:23:00.002-04:00

In case you haven't notice I've been doing a horrible job of blogging. I want to get back into it because when I write I process. I need to process. Therefore, I need to write. So, I've decided that since I'm out of blogging shape to get back into it I'm just going to pretend like we are old friends and that as I type it's just two friends shooting the breeze together - feel free to shoot the breeze back at me in the comment section :)

I just found out that a dear friend of my is pregnant!!!! (I have you all guessing now don't I)

Speaking of being pregnant ~~the other day~~ a few weeks ago (time flies when you're having fun!) I called my sister and said can you believe that in 5 weeks (which has now turned into 2 weeks) you are going to be having another baby and my baby is going to be 1! Truly I was in shock. Since then I've been keeping a careful on on my Havey girl and it's true...she's not acting much like a baby anymore but a toddler, walking and everything!

Speaking of everything...Haven has a new nickname - Haven the Hurricane. The girl gets into everything and when she's done you don't know what hit, just like a hurricane!

Speaking of hurricane have you ever heard of Jimmy Needham? He's one of my new favorite artist and he has a song called "Hurricane." It's good.

Speaking of needing things (I'm now listening to his song) we are in need of a car. We ~~only have~~ had one car so when that ~~goes~~ went we're left...well...car less. We ~~need~~ would like something that seats more than 5 (no, I am not pregnant but, my husband is a youth pastor and we ~~are always~~ would haul extra kids if we had the room, plus we do want more kids!) We are trusting the Lord for provision.

Speaking of provision a few weeks ago, when it was pouring down rain, we discovered that the not one but two leaks in our roof, that we had "fixed" (re-tared) already, were once again leaking...it was time...time for a new roof! Having 3 long days of constant rain helped us quickly decide that we ~~should~~ had to put a new roof. This was around the same time we were suspecting that our car was not going to make it and now our roof wasn't going to make it. Roofs are not cheap (neither are cars.) We were not sure where the money for the roof (or the car) was going to come from but, God is faithful and within 24 hrs we were blessed with $3,000. Enough to put a roof on our small house if you have 13 wonderful men & young fellas willing to work for the price of a sheet pizza and homemade cookies! Which we were blessed to have :) Thanks again guys for helping!

Speaking of helping, Jericho is such a big helper! Until I step back and start really watching I forget all of the BIG girl things she does. Her chores right now are unloading the silverware (we don't put our sharp knives in the dishwasher), helping daddy collect garbage once a week, stacking all the cloth wipes and putting them away when mommy washes diapers, dusting anything she can reach (when mommy actually gets around to dusting), along with the daily making her bed everyday, getting dressed/undressed, brushing her teeth, picking up her (& Haven's) toys and putting them where they go. She really is such a big helper! Most of the time she does all her chores without fussing and with a smile on her face. And boy do I love that smiling face!

Speaking of love have ya met my husband? I love that man so much! Things have been a little rough around here (have I mentioned the well not working and having no water for 3 days, or our broken heater and a list of other things to long to think about. Needless to say we're getting hit hard with house stuff right now) My man is such a faith filled guy that he makes it so easy to follow his lead and trust God with everything.

Speaking of following is lead, he's in bed, sleeping, I think I'll go join him.

Speaking of sleep I'd love to get some! It's been rare these days. I've been staying up way to late and Haven has not been sleeping through the night. She's been up a few times a night for way to long. I hope when all these teeth come in that will change.

Speaking of Haven, Jericho, Seth, having a house, having a roof on our house, having the money to put a roof on our house and anything else I mentioned. I'm reminded of one thing...

I.am.blessed

Happy 10 Months Haven!

2010-09-07T21:36:00.003-04:00

Watch out she's in double digits now...in months that is!

Haven you are my little ham.
You love laughter!
Whether it's from your own mouth or someone else, you love the sound of it.
For months now you've been doing things to get us to laugh,
which we of course do!

You're my lil baller!
Your favorite toy is a ball
Your new favorite game is when I roll a ball to you and you roll it back.
You concentrate really hard when we play, it's adorable!

You like baby dolls too
but honestly I think you like them because you sister loves them

Aunt Thea gave us a new toy that has a microphone and you love to sing in it!

You love to jump on the tramp

You are getting into EVERYTHING these days!

You are still nursing

And your favorite drink is bath water...
well maybe 2nd favorite drink

You started eating baby food this month.
You don't like the baby cereal but you like everything else.

When you eat you totally chill in your high chair.
When Mama's getting your food ready you are very patient.

You have 6 teeth (4 on top, 2 on bottom)
There is a little space between your top two teeth that I think is absolutely adorable!

Anything that is halfway stable you pull yourself up on and push as you walk.
I'm wondering how long it will be till your walking on your own!

You don't like sitting still to read.....yet!

You only nap for an hour and a half (if I'm lucky)

When people ask what color your eyes are I don't know what to say
because they have changed so much.

You take 2 sometimes 3 naps

You can say Mama & Dada

You wave (when you want to)

You are constantly making noises with you mouth
every week the noises change it's so funny!

You are always making funny/weird faces.

Yesterday for the first time you crawled to the door daddy went out, banged on it, then fussed because you knew he had left.
It was sweet and sad.
It made daddy not want to leave.

You are definitely a mama's girl (like I prayed!)
but you sure do love your daddy and your sister too!

Haven you are a blessing from above!

Happy 10 Months!

A Resting Place

2010-09-06T00:17:00.000-04:00

There is no good way to start this post. I've tried to word it so many different ways, to make it sound not so...wow didn't expect that. But I'm having a hard time so I'm just going to dive in. Sorry for the (see I can't even find a word to describe it) abruptness (if that's even what you'd call it?!?)

When Gideon died there were many in-your-face, decide-right-now things we had to deal with that, quite frankly, when you are not expecting your child to die, kinda slap you in the face. I mean, I just gave birth the thought of where to bury my son never once crossed my mind, even with as sick as he had previously been, the thought that he might not make it out of the NICU, just wasn't in my head...until he was in my arms...taking his last breath...

See I told you there was not good way to start this.

None of the decisions were easy but (praise the Lord) we were (and still are) surrounded by friends and family that either completely took care of some of heart wrenching decisions for us or helped us make them. One of the biggest decisions we had to make was to choose where we were going to bury Gideon. At that time I'd lived in Lima for less than a year and a half, 9 out of those 18 months I'd been on bed rest or in the hospital with Gideon. I didn't even know where a cemetery was and they were wanting us, in matter of days, to choose a place that we were going to visit the rest of our lives, to pick a cemetery to lay our son to rest...forever. How do you make that kind of decisions? Especially when you are already so screwed up from...well...losing your son...

We had some very dear friends of ours that had walked by our side through everything that had already happened the miscarriage, both bed rests, & the NICU. These friends of ours came to us with an offer. Because of their offer choosing a cemetery was as easy as it could be. You see they too had a son that died when he was just a few weeks old. After there son died they bought the plot right behind where he was buried. They told us that if we wanted the plot behind their son, for our son, we could have it. Relief flooded me at the thought that this major rest-of-our-life decision could possibly be that easy. The next day they took us to see the cemetery. The place we'd potentially be laying Gideon to rest.

The drive felt long. I felt numb. We pulled into the entrance of the cemetery. As we made our way down the gravel road I see big solid trees that line the drive on either side. I immediately fall in love with them, wondering how long they've been their and if the big van we are in will fit between them. We fit. I'm looking everywhere taking everything in, yet I'm not. What are we doing here? I am reminded. My son just died. We pull around the curve. We slow as we get just beyond the tree with the bench next to it. We stop. We give them a minute to get out and pay respect to their son. They get out. They go left. They walk all the way to the back. They stop. We wait. They turn to us. We join them. For a moment there are no words. What is there to say? Their son rests their now and soon ours will join him. They point to the exact spot. I stand their. Tear will not stop. I bawl. Strong arms blanket themselves around me. I thank God for my husband. We weep. We both know this is where our son will rest. Yet, there is peace. I look up from the spot where I stand. My breath is taken away. Beauty is what I see. Who would have thought such beauty could be found in a cemetery? But here it is. God is here, even in this place.

The next day we bury our son.

Bubble Gum on the Roof...

2010-09-03T00:21:00.009-04:00

that is what Jericho wanted for her birthday. How does a 2 year old think of that? Well, it started back at the beginning of the year when Jericho started asking for gum.all.the.time! I told Seth that we had to tell her something I couldn't keep telling her no multiple times a day without a good reason, so we came up with one, your not old enough. How old do I have to be she wanted to know? Seth and I looked at each other and in unison said 3!

checking out the view with daddy before the chewing of the 1st piece of gum

Jericho would randomly ask for gum (I chew gum all that time) and every time I'd ask her if she was 3 yet and she'd smile at me and tell me not yet. I'd smile back and say when your 3! It quickly became something she was looking forward to.So, where does the roof come in? At the beginning of spring Seth had to go up on the roof to fix something and Jericho was on the ground watching him. She asked if she could join him and because he was having to work and go back and forth and on and off the roof he said no. She of course asked why but answered her own question before Seth could say anything, "because I'm not big enough" she said as I watched her shoulders slump and the air go out of her. She knew. She wanted to be bigger. Never the less she continued to watch her daddy from the ground all the while talking to him and asking him a million and one questions about the roof.

getting ready to chew

A few weeks later Seth and Jericho were sitting in the hammock talking. Seth asked her what she wanted to do when she got older and she confidently without missing a beat replied, "Chew gum on the roof!" Seth was a little bewildered giggled before he remembered the previous week and then I heard him belly laugh. About that time I came outside and he told me what she said so we told her that for her 3rd birthday she could chew gum on the roof!

showing off their gum

Even though we drove home from Chicago on her actual birthday we got home right before the sunset and Jericho got to chew gum on the roof! When I asked her what she thought she said, "It's YUMMY!" She's asked everyday multiply times a day since her birthday for a piece of gum. It's the first thing she asks for when she wakes up!

Jericho holding up the card my grandma got her for her 3rd birthday with 3 pieces of bubble gum taped to it!

Happy Birthday My Sweet Jericho! I hope you enjoyed your gum on the roof!

Spewing

2010-09-02T22:28:00.002-04:00

So, it's been awhile...a long while. Here's a little bit about a lot that's been going on...

My baby girl turned 3 a week ago! I'm struggling with this one I can't believe she's 3. We decided to head to Chicago last minute so we ended up having a party at Seth's parents place and my family came too it was awesome! We were driving home on her actual birthday but she still got to chew her bubble gum on the roof! (More on that story later)

Just a few weeks before Jericho's birthday Seth and I celebrated our 6th anniversary! I'm so blessed to be married to such an incredible man of God! I don't know what I'd do without him.

Our house is once again on the market. We have had an offer on it and are waiting for details so we can make a decision. Please pray for us. The reason we are selling it: there is a big beautiful foreclosure house just down the road from us that we are looking into. It's the "BIG house" (as Jericho call it) that we've been driving by for the past 2 years. The one that every so often I'd convince Seth to stop by so we could peek in her windows, don't worry no one lives there, and dream about our family running around inside her spacious walls. I've falling in love with her, just as Seth did with the house we grace our presence with now. I've always thought we'd end up buying it one day and fixing her up real pretty. I just never thought it might be this soon. I'm excited and scared and have no idea what God is up to but I look forward to the ride!

Another reason that I've not been blogging is that we've been traveling...mostly to Chicago. Each year it varies on how much we get to see our families since both are in Chicago area but this year we've been blessed! Since May we've seen them 3 times, each one a blessing. I love our families and it's so nice when we get to see them more than usual. The only down side is that it take me a week to prepare for vacation, then we are gone a week, then a week to get back to normal, with how often we've been out there we've had very few "normal" weeks but it's been TOTALLY worth it! Oh and did I mention that somewhere in our 3 trips to Chicago in 9 weeks Seth went to Mexico for 10 days! Yeah this summer has been what I call "A Beautiful Mess"

Gideon, yeah it's almost that time of year again where my mind tends to wander towards him more often. But it's started earlier this year for a few reason. The first being my boy would be starting kindergarten (I just looked up the cut off date for NY - November 30 and his birthday is November 20) I had someone that I'd just meat ask me if I had any children (the girls weren't with me at the moment) I told her yes and then she asked how old they were she got my classic answer, "we have a 3 yr old and a 9 month old at home" I'm glad most people don't think about why I add the at home part. Then this sweet lady looked at me and said oh so you don't have any kids in school...I could feel the dagger go into my heart and the tears well up in my eyes. I'm glad she didn't notice my reaction. I know she didn't mean anything by it, this kind soul was just making small talk. I think God allows conversations like that to happen so that we can see that the grieving process is a lifetime and there's a lot to learn.

We are also in the process of picking out a headstone for Gideon. I don't want to go into details now (that's a post of it's own) but it's been harder than I thought it would be...

Haven is going to be 10 months old in less than a week! My baby is going to be in double digits, yeah it's just in months but man that went fast. I was reading brietta's post about her youngest who's a week older than Hav. The first line she said was,

"Claire is three quarters through her first year of life. I still find that I think of myself as having a new baby. I have a feeling nobody else does."

I know what she means! I still feel like Haven is a newborn that can't do much but then I look down and she is crawl after me as she calls for me then she pulls herself up on my pant leg when she reaches me and give me the biggest grin with those 6 adorable teeth and that one big dimple and I realize she is NOT a newborn!

So there you have it, me spewing about a little bit of what's on my mind.

Characteristics of a Godly Mother

2010-05-09T10:14:00.001-04:00

So I hacked in again to tell you how amazing Tarah is as a mother...

These are Characteristics that I have seen in Tarah since we have had kids.

1. She is patient when a two year old goes potty in her pants for the 5th time today even though she is potty trained.

2. She is kind when I walk in the house and everything is crazy and I want to share something that I have been thinking about all day and she is kind enough to listen.

3. She sees long term, Tarah doesn't allow the temporary frustrations to change her course because she has long term purposes with our children.

4. She perseveres, Tarah perseveres with the intentional characteristics we are instilling in our children even when it would be justified to give up.

5. She is gentle, Tarah is so gentle in the what she does with our kids and speaking gently with them and not getting frustrated when frustration is due.

6. She is hungry for God, I have never met someone who wants the things of God like Tarah does. She seeks Him and longs to be led by Him. She truly is a woman who is after the heart of God.

7. She is fun, I love watching her with our kids, run around, laugh, sing, dance, color, paint, and experience the joy of God.

8. She is protective, Tarah does a great job of making sure she listens to the Holy Spirit when it comes to who watches our kids, where our kids go, and what they do. I saw this in my mom who would stop us from going places, wake up in the middle of the night and call us or wait for us to get home and then ask us what happened at 10:43 and 30 sec. I admired this so much in my mom and now I have a wife who walks in the same giftings.

9. She is Diligent. The definition of diligent: characterized by steady, earnest, and energetic effort. There is a steadiness about Tarah that is awe inspiring. Nothing really gets to her or shakes her, she is like an oak tree with her roots going deep.

10. She is worth modeling her life after, I look at my girls now and think if they grow up to be just like Tarah we have succeeded. The character, integrity, hunger for God, love, compassion, perseverance, gentleness, if these get into our children we have done our job. Tarah, thank you for being the best mom and wife a man could ever wish for.

Proverbs 31:10 "A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. "

My Baby Girl

2010-05-07T23:20:00.006-04:00

My Havey baby is 6 months old!

Half a year gone just like that. I can't believe that a little over 6 months ago I was wondering what it would be like to have another child at home and now I have a hard time remembering life without her.

I feel like you don't know my baby girl very well because I haven't been keeping up with blogging as much as I hope so here are a few things you should know:

Haven is a very determined baby. She knows what she can do & does it. No questions asked. (So opposite of her big sister!)
She has to have peace & quiet to nurse. Not an easy task....unless you're the first born, which she's not!
Havey is a little chatter box, talking all the time to me.
Haven is my cuddle bug, just like I prayed for.
She has a heart of compassion. If someone is crying she is crying too.
Haven means a place of safety or a sanctuary. My girl first her name to a T, if she doesn't feel safe she aint a happy camper. (FYI: Changing tables in noisy bathrooms that echo are NOT safe.)
Havey has the best cheeks ever!
She's a very happy go with the flow kind of girl. We went out with friends late one night & as we were leaving my girlfriend said, "Wow, what a great baby can I order one of those?" It was hours past her bedtime and Hav just chilled in her car seat for 2 hours while we ate & talked.
My girl has does not cry she screams & screeches and it's ear piercing. Not one of my favorite traits but it's cute when it's an I'm having fun scream.
Is a mama's girl.......this mama doesn't mind one bit!
Hav is a cat napper. If we're out and about all day she'll do wonderful taking 20 minute cat naps here and there. This is both a blessing & a curse.
Haven already has a best friends in the form of a big sister! My girls can't get enough of each other and it's the sweetest thing ever. I'm understanding more and more why my mom always said that watching us girls together (my sisters & I) blessed her so much (she doesn't have any sisters.) I adore watching my girls be sisters just as my mom adores watching my sisters & I!
If ya can't tell the girl still has all kinds of nicknames usually it's our favorites are Hav or Havey. Today someone asked Jericho what her baby sisters name was and she told him it was Havey.
She is a delight in every way shape & form.

Happy Half a Year Havey Baby!

Riding Waves

2010-05-02T23:49:00.006-04:00

Sometimes my heart just misses Gideon.

I had just gotten to church, dropped Jericho off in her class, handed the baby to Seth (because he asked for her.....that'll make any mama's heart melt right there!) and started to worship. I don't even know what song we were singing but I immediately got teary eyed (as I am now) I was thanking God for, well, everything.....my husband, our girls, my church, the fact that I can worship God freely, for where we were at and where we've been, I just felt so thankful yet.....I was sad.

I knew that I was missing Gideon. I don't know how to explain that I know that it's Gideon I'm missing I just know. It's a different sad I feel when I miss him. Different than anything else.

Sometimes when I feel like this....I feel silly. I know I shouldn't I mean he was my son! It's not silly that I miss him. I also know why I feel silly, it's because I'm blindsided. I'm going along just fine and BAM this wave comes out of nowhere. It knocks me over and takes the wind right out of my sails.

I am leaning that grief comes in waves. It is not bad, it is not good, it is life, with life comes death, with death comes grief, grief comes in waves, so I am learning to ride some waves.

Happy Birthday Mom, enjoy my giggling girls!

2010-04-27T23:14:00.004-04:00

Mom, I wish we could be there to celebrate with you but since we can't I figured the next best thing I could do for you is to post a video, of my girls, giggling their little hearts out!

This was taken today, on your birthday, just for YOU!

Enjoy!

and feel free to play it over and over and over

I do :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMA!

Thanks for all you've done over the years. It's meant the world to me.
Those little girls you see on the video are here today because of you. Thanks!
I love you!

(Not really) Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

"She looks so prim but I confess...

She's got skinned knees beneath her dress!"

~unknown

"No one likes change but babies in diapers”

~Barbara Johnson

This baby likes the change of getting her cloth diaper changed!

And so does her mama ;)

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T20:49:00.005-04:00

From our family to yours!

I hope as you celebrated Easter you greater grasped the power of His resurrection!

Tarah, you surpass them all!

2010-03-05T02:24:00.003-05:00

On the eve of Tarah’s 27th Birthday I can’t help but sit here and think of all the amazing things that she is. So I have “hacked” into her blog so I could let those of you who read her blog know how amazing she is. We have been married for 5 ½ years but have been friends for 7 ½ so I have had the privilege of getting a glimpse at just a few of the amazing facets of this rare diamond.

She has some of the cutest pet peeves. Double cases her pillow, likes me to get her tooth brush ready for her, loves storage tubs, loves any organizational tool, when we play sports she gets hair time outs, and there are many more.

Tarah has always dreamed of being a mother and when you see her being a mother you see that this was her God designed assignment.

She remains a student. She loves to learn, whether it is cooking, gardening, reading books, and her desires to learn more about God she does it with such intensity.

She is not star struck. Tarah has an amazing ability to not get caught up in the name of someone with this she has the ability to connect with people on all levels because your level doesn’t matter to her.

She challenges me to grow. Watching Tarah pursue God and allow God to work in her life reveals the amazing love of God to me which causes me to pursue God.

She is an amazing wife. I hear it said behind every great man is a great woman. Behind me is a woman who has been such a support through encouragement, prayer, and wisdom that has allowed God to use me to sow and reap a harvest. She will receive a full reward for this.

She can make just about anyone talk. There are times I don’t want to talk but she knows just the right questions to ask to crack the vault of my mouth. She will prod and poke until you willingly give the information you were keeping. Even presents for birthdays and Christmas. She hates surprise so she makes you confess.

She is a prayer warrior. Smith Wigglesworth once said I never pray for more than 15 min but I never let 15 min go by without praying. He is talking about a life style of prayer. Tarah does an amazing job of continuing in conversation with God all through out the day.

She has the most amazing eyes. To look in her eyes is to look at the ocean on a calm night. I grew up near the Gulf of Mexico and I would at times go out and sit on the beach at night and to hear the waves crashing brings a peace to your day. When looking in Tarah’s eyes you see that peace, you know you can talk to her about anything. She is a safe place for many, including me.

She is my best friend. I love being with Tarah. When I am with Tarah life seems to slow down. There might be chaos happening all around me but when I am with her it’s okay because as we often say, “there is no one else that I would rather do this with than you (her).” She is my best friend.

Finally she is a Proverbs 31 Woman
10 [c] A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
31 Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
Tarah,
As Proverbs 31:29 says, "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." You have surpassed them all. Thank you babe for being you and I love you to the moon and back.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-03T23:09:00.000-05:00

My Reading List

2010-02-26T22:32:00.004-05:00

I added a book reading list to my side bar. One of the goals I made for 2010 was to start reading more. I love reading. I did boycott it for a little while I think it was when I was on round 3 of bed rest. I know it's silly to boycott one of the only things you can do, but I was sick of bed rest! Then after bringing a baby home well I've ceased to read anything longer than a recipe. Okay not really but ya know what I mean. I haven't read much more than picture books since Jericho's been born.

When I actually do pick up a book. I have this little problem - I don't finish them. It drives my husband crazy. I don't know why I have such a hard time finishing books. I mean I like the books I read. They hold my interest. It's just....well, I don't know it is, but I plan on changing it.That's why I've made a reading list with 2 categories, currently reading & recently FINISHED! I need some accountability, this is where you come in I need you to keep an eye and make sure that my currently reading books are going to the FINISHED position so I can start new books and FINISH them too!

My goal for 2010 is to read 6 books by myself & 6 books with Seth. I set my sights low in hopes to be able to actually accomplish it. I was going to try to do one a month but I do have a 3 month old & a 2 year old and we are still hoping to move sometime this year. So far I've finished 2 books and just started 2 more; Seth and I are halfway through our first.

Are you a reader? Do you have any book suggestions for me? Any good books to read as a couple?

Where are my pictures?

2010-02-22T15:22:00.003-05:00

We got this awesome wireless wifi picture frame for Seth's ordination! Thanks Deb & Greg!! I can't wait till we get it installed right - we tried but are going to have to give Greg a call so he can help us.

There is just one problem, well 2 if you count not installing it right but that's beside the point, since we tried to install it about a week ago I can't find where the pictures that I am downloading are going! We need some electronic expert help. It's starting to annoy me because I have all these great pictures of Seth's ordination & Haven's dedication that I want to show you but I can't because I don't know where they are! They are loading into my Kodak EasyShare just fine, I just can't find them when I try to post them on my blog. Ugh! So until futher notice there will be no pictures. If you can tell me how to find my pictures please let me know. Thanks!

Sometimes ya just gotta rock the baby

2010-02-22T13:35:00.004-05:00

Please note: Jericho and Haven are TOTALLY different sleepers! What worked for Jericho, being sprawled all over the crib, no binkie, but eventually finding her thumb, with music playing, does not work for Hav. I tried. I thought: it worked for Jericho and she was a great sleeper it should work for Haven and make her a great sleeper too. Wrong. Now don't get me wrong Haven is a great sleeper, because we have worked at it and because I figure out what worked for her. She likes to be swaddled, with a binkie and no music playing. Like I said TOTALLY opposite of Jericho!

With that said I can start my post.....

I've been blessed with babies that are good sleepers. Both girls from day one only woke up once in the middle of the night to nurse then would go right back to sleep. This really just happened. I did nothing to get them to sleep this well this early. It was a blessing and I am so thankful!!!

Both girls also, by 7 weeks, were sleeping through the night, 8+ hours. They both sleep well for naps too (well, Haven does, Jericho doesn't really nap any more but she has rest time. She actually rests quietly & stays on her bed!) But this we had work at. It didn't just happen. Thankfully it didn't take our girls long, but again it didn't just happen. We do believe in letting them cry themselves to sleep and self soothing (to some degree.) I don't know if it works for all babies but so far it has work for both the babes we've been blessed to have at home.

Why all this talk about sleep & babies well because even though I have some stick-to-it methods that have worked for us, sometimes ya just gotta rock the baby and forget all the rules.

Today was one of those days. Thus far both of my girls have gone in phases between being laid down and falling right to sleep or being laid down and fussing themselves to sleep. The later of the two is much rarer but it does happen.

I'm just now noticing that when I'm in a spiritually sensitive phase and my babes are in one of their fuss themselves to sleep stages, I have a hard time with it. Normally a baby crying/fussing themselves to sleep, when I know their are tired, doesn't phase me in the least. I'm good at tuning them out till I realize all quite and I wonder how long my sweet babe has been asleep. But this is not the case when my spirit is super sensitive. I have such a hard time letting the baby cry. It's funny because it also seems like when I'm super sensitive my baby's always tend to be fussier. I wonder is it because they can sense something too? Do they need a little more lovin and reassurance? Or is that the Lord knows that it's ME that needs the reassurance, o he makes my babe a little fussier because He knows a sweet baby snug in my arms always calms my spirit. No matter what the reason I must admit I tremendously enjoy it when sometimes ya just gotta rock the baby! Today we've been a rockin!

Walk in the Spirit

2010-02-21T23:11:00.004-05:00

Well, I was going to write about our last 2 weeks, I can't believe it's been that long, it feels like yesterday. It went quick because it's been full - thank goodness it's been full of FUN so far or I might not have survived!

I was going to tell you how much fun we've been having. I was going to tell you about how good the girls have been and how proud of my husband I am and how nice it was to have BOTH sides of our family here and............I will tell you (hopefully) but not tonight.

Tonight I need to process.

You see I'm in that place again. It's not a bad place, so to speak, just it's a hard place, especially if I'm allowing my flesh to take over. There are some "little foxes" that need to be taken care of. Believe it our not, I like being in this place but only because I know that when I'm there it's because the Lord is calling me to the next level and at the next level there are always great rewards & blessings because I am purposely choosing to walk in the Spirit.

Right now it's just a matter of getting to that purposely choosing place. After reading this last night I too realized that it is a choice, MY choice, and I really can have the fruits of the Spirit all the time. {I also love that this just happens to be the verse we are having Jericho memorize!}

Here is what the Lord is challenging me to start doing: walk in the Spirit and possess the fruits of the Spirit ALL the time!

Now I'm not perfect and I know that there will be times that I allow my flesh to take over and the fruits of the spirit will not be visible. Just because they are not visible for a moment does not mean they are absent.

February is Full!

2010-02-04T21:07:00.007-05:00

Today we attended an in-service seminar at the church that is going to be taught by Stacy Cline. He taught a lot of the book he just wrote, Suffering Loss: Discovering the Blessing of Change, Growth, Healing & the Hope of a Beautiful Life. The seminar was very good and I can't wait to read the book.

Tomorrow we are having our first ever Chili Cook Off at Outbreak (name of our youth group) at our Superbowl Party! I can't wait, it's going to be fun. If you have teens and live in the area send them on over! The only thing that would make it better is if the Packers were in the Superbowl.

Mon-Wed 8-10 I will be in GA. Seth is in Jeanne Mayo's Cadre and they are doing a "ladies only breakaway" for the wives. So, early Monday morning Hav and I are heading to GA! What's cool about this is that Jeanne Mayo was my youth pastor. I look forward to it. Plus, I just found out that I WILL get to see my brother! He lives a few hours away from where I'll be staying and he's going to be able to come see us one night!

Wed 10 - I get home from GA and have volleyball.

Thursady 11-we don't have anything PTL! But we gotta get things ready for our families. I'm pretty sure I'm going to have to do some grocery shopping along with some fun shopping (but I'm not telling ya what for yet, it's a surprise!)

Friday 12 - Seth's family gets here & we are going to spend the day in Buffalo. It sounds like we are going to see the beautiful Niagara Falls and check out the Aquarium (we might wait till Monday we'll see)

Saturday 13 - my family arrives along with Seth's "Fair God Mother." Once everyone gets here we will have our special Valentine's breakfast (Seth's mom makes everything red!) That night Seth is getting ordained! (I'm so proud of you babe!)

Sunday 14 - Haven is being dedicated. It's Valentines day! Not to mention our half anniversary. Happy 5 1/2 years to us! My family will head home after a nice lunch together. Oh and of course we have Outbreak Sunday night.

Monday 15- we will either hang out with Seth's family here or in Buffalo before they head home that night.

Tuesday 16 - Haven has a doctors appointment, my sweet girl has to get shots. That night we are having an all girls cadre Valentine's/Lia Sophia party at our place. The girls are bringing there mom's it's going to be fun! My sis is just getting into selling Lia Sophia so if ya wanna host a party let me know, I'll get ya in contact with her.

Wed 17 - Seth and I are having our Valentine's date night! Hooray for an Aunt that will be staying a little longer that will babysit :)

Thur 18 - NOTHING PTL! and NO, I can't do anything so please don't ask :)

Friday 19 - Casting Crowns concert!! I can't wait!

Saturday 20- Leader's Night Out at our place. (Happy Birthday to Colleen!)

Sunday 21 - Church in AM, welcome Luncheon after church & Outbreak in the PM as usual

Monday 22 - Hanging w/friends and having an early dinner then home for Cadre. Out of 8 girls in my cadre 6 of us have birthdays in 6 weeks (Jan 26-March 5) Now that's what I call cRaZy! So to celebrate we are having a birthday party for Everyone!

Tue 23 - NOTHING PTL! Things are starting to slow down a little.

Wed 24 - Volleyball for me.

Thur 25 - Dinner & games at our place w/friends

After that life slows down.......for a week a WHOLE week......and then starts back up again, but more on that later.

So if ya don't here from me over the next few week you know why....

February is FULL!

Dear Gracie,

2010-02-03T23:53:00.000-05:00

Happy 5th Angelversary Gracie!

I hope you had a wonderful day today. I know you did! Can you really have any other kind up in Heaven?! We had a pretty good day. Hav wore your outfit to day, she looked so cute. She is getting so big, she's almost 3 months old. Her smile could light a place up and her eyes get bluer by the minute. I got some pictures of Haven in your outfit. I'm a little sad though, I forgot to get a picture of her and daddy together, maybe next time I have her in it I'll take one but I don't know that it will be the same as if I'd taken it today.

I was not able to get your precious moments today either. They only had a brown haired one and well, all your other precious moments are blonde because we're pretty sure you would have been blonde. So hopefully we'll get it tomorrow. Ya know it's funny from day one I always thought you'd would have been blonde but both daddy and I have brown hair and so did Gideon. I started thinking I was crazy for thinking you might have had blonde hair and then Jericho came along blonde hair and blue eyed and it put me right at ease. Now that I see your sister you very well could have been blonde!

Speaking of Jericho, your sweet sister woke up from her nap throwing up. I bet your glad you never had to worry about that. Doesn't sound like much fun does it. Watching her afterward you never would have know that anything was wrong thought, she's such a trooper!

I had a volleyball game. We didn't do so hot, we lost all 3 but it's just a game right. There are more important things in life.

Okay, so maybe we didn't have the best day today. It was a little rough. I'm kind of glad that everything was a little off today because life seemed a little off today, yet it's as it should be as we're missing you.

Can't wait to see you,
Mommy

p.s. Don't forget you'll always be my Glory Baby!