Joy is in abundance in this household today!
Come read details and see pictures here!
Thank you for sharing our joy and blessing us with your prayers!!
For Becky (From Aunt Kelly)
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Still here...still pregnant
Our life has been filled to the brim here recently with friends, summer activities and family time...It has been wonderful. However, as the temperature increases I find myself more and more eager to have this little babe. My body temperature right now is crazy. I can go from fine to bright red and sweating even in the most air conditioned of places...It really is amazing to watch if you happen to be close by when a hot flash happens. As wild as it is...I am remembering this a season that is coming to end...I do want to enjoy it.
2 weeks ago my Dr. said...this baby is ready and you are ready, she could come anytime...Because of our excitement I keep having to call myself back to living life now...rather than in constant anticipation looking only to that event rather than the daily joys that are still occurring. I don't want to miss any of our last moments as a family of four. We still say every day when we get up...Is this a day we will celebrate for the rest of our lives? SO fun to know that someday in August will forever have Eden's name on our family calendar!
Here are the latest stories to remember:
1. The other night as the boys were going to bed we were talking about how excited we all are to meet Eden. This started us talking about another baby that the entire world anticipated, that the Lord knew the world needed, that people had prayed for for years, that would enable us all to talk to the Lord in new ways...Tony and I both were chiming in all the things this baby would do for us, ultimately save our souls...when I noticed Payton's smile getting bigger and bigger...Finally, he interrupted and said, "It's me isn't it?"
2. We have found Benjamin's cryptonite...For those of you who have seen him this summer he almost always is either wearing his polyester baseball pants or his red wool baseball socks pulled up to his knees. We realized last week when we were having some obedience issues the powers of putting his pants and socks up on the top of the refrigerator, where he can see them but not get them or wear them. They have been placed there until he can make good choices while out in public...We frequently find him on the couch staring up at those pants with tears streaming down his face. Change is coming...but its a bit painful for all involved.
3. Payton once again came to our room the other night after having had a nightmare...I asked him what he dreamed about and he said, "It was awful." I asked him again, "What was it about?" He replied, "The Backyardigans."
4. The boys have a new game where they go in the back yard and take turns throwing the football as hard they can at the back of the other one's head. The first one to yell stop loses...more often than not, Stop is being yelled while charging at the other one right before a full contact tackle is made. Tears usually follow. We have made every effort to put a stop to this game. Only two boys would come up with this.
5. We are also working on gas issues over here. Things we hope to get ironed out before their sister is able to learn from their ways. Efforts to out do each other in these games have lead to more than once someone saying from the back seat..."Umm, I am going to need some new pants when we get home." Why? Things that make me shake my head....
6.
We have also entered the "If mom is trying to get a picture, whatever you do, don't look at the camera or smile stage"...These made me laugh.
7. Tony got us some great tickets the rangers through work. We had a blast going and eating at the ballpark, watching batting practice, etc...Within 3 minutes of the national anthem Payton was sound asleep on me and drooling, combined with 100 degree outside temp. We woke him up for a family picture...
You can tell he's a bit under the weather...Poor kid, kept telling us he did not feel well. We ended up leaving during the 2nd inning...Payton ended up having strep, his dad ended up getting to see Josh Hamilton hit at least one out of the park. Good times :)
8. The other day we were playing in the playroom when Benj crawled in and started barking and said, "Let's play Clifford." Payton quickly said, "I am T-bone." I said, "Who am I?" Thinking Emily Elizabeth, Cleo, etc...Benjamin said, "You be Clifford the big White dog." Thick skin is must during these pregnant times!
9. I love this picture of Benjamin.
I was showing it to him the other day and telling him how handsome he is and he said, "Do you just love me because I have a purple tooth?" Not ever wanting him to be sensitive about that I said, "No, I don't really notice that tooth anymore." Benjamin replied, "I love my purple tooth, no one has one but me and its awesome." Not so worried about the sensitivity thing...
10.And because of family who lives far and has asked for this...here is the latest:
Here's hoping for a birth announcement post soon!
2 weeks ago my Dr. said...this baby is ready and you are ready, she could come anytime...Because of our excitement I keep having to call myself back to living life now...rather than in constant anticipation looking only to that event rather than the daily joys that are still occurring. I don't want to miss any of our last moments as a family of four. We still say every day when we get up...Is this a day we will celebrate for the rest of our lives? SO fun to know that someday in August will forever have Eden's name on our family calendar!
Here are the latest stories to remember:
1. The other night as the boys were going to bed we were talking about how excited we all are to meet Eden. This started us talking about another baby that the entire world anticipated, that the Lord knew the world needed, that people had prayed for for years, that would enable us all to talk to the Lord in new ways...Tony and I both were chiming in all the things this baby would do for us, ultimately save our souls...when I noticed Payton's smile getting bigger and bigger...Finally, he interrupted and said, "It's me isn't it?"
2. We have found Benjamin's cryptonite...For those of you who have seen him this summer he almost always is either wearing his polyester baseball pants or his red wool baseball socks pulled up to his knees. We realized last week when we were having some obedience issues the powers of putting his pants and socks up on the top of the refrigerator, where he can see them but not get them or wear them. They have been placed there until he can make good choices while out in public...We frequently find him on the couch staring up at those pants with tears streaming down his face. Change is coming...but its a bit painful for all involved.
3. Payton once again came to our room the other night after having had a nightmare...I asked him what he dreamed about and he said, "It was awful." I asked him again, "What was it about?" He replied, "The Backyardigans."
4. The boys have a new game where they go in the back yard and take turns throwing the football as hard they can at the back of the other one's head. The first one to yell stop loses...more often than not, Stop is being yelled while charging at the other one right before a full contact tackle is made. Tears usually follow. We have made every effort to put a stop to this game. Only two boys would come up with this.
5. We are also working on gas issues over here. Things we hope to get ironed out before their sister is able to learn from their ways. Efforts to out do each other in these games have lead to more than once someone saying from the back seat..."Umm, I am going to need some new pants when we get home." Why? Things that make me shake my head....
6.
We have also entered the "If mom is trying to get a picture, whatever you do, don't look at the camera or smile stage"...These made me laugh.
7. Tony got us some great tickets the rangers through work. We had a blast going and eating at the ballpark, watching batting practice, etc...Within 3 minutes of the national anthem Payton was sound asleep on me and drooling, combined with 100 degree outside temp. We woke him up for a family picture...
You can tell he's a bit under the weather...Poor kid, kept telling us he did not feel well. We ended up leaving during the 2nd inning...Payton ended up having strep, his dad ended up getting to see Josh Hamilton hit at least one out of the park. Good times :)8. The other day we were playing in the playroom when Benj crawled in and started barking and said, "Let's play Clifford." Payton quickly said, "I am T-bone." I said, "Who am I?" Thinking Emily Elizabeth, Cleo, etc...Benjamin said, "You be Clifford the big White dog." Thick skin is must during these pregnant times!
9. I love this picture of Benjamin.
I was showing it to him the other day and telling him how handsome he is and he said, "Do you just love me because I have a purple tooth?" Not ever wanting him to be sensitive about that I said, "No, I don't really notice that tooth anymore." Benjamin replied, "I love my purple tooth, no one has one but me and its awesome." Not so worried about the sensitivity thing...10.And because of family who lives far and has asked for this...here is the latest:
Here's hoping for a birth announcement post soon!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Village of Hope
Please click on this picture to make it larger so you can read the words on their sign...Last year when Payton and I visited Benin, West Africa one of the most touching experiences we had was getting to go to an orphanage called the Village of Hope. From the beginning it was obvious the Lord was at work. Though every child there had an incredibly tragic story...there eyes were filled with hope. When we were able to give them money that some people at the church had given us for just such a circumstance, all the children broke into praises and dancing to the Lord. It was one of the most beautiful expressions of gratitude to the Lord that I have ever seen.The director later told us, We had been hoping you would come. These children are being lead by great people of faith who are trusting the Lord for their provision.
Next month, my sister and Randy are heading back to Benin to visit the Christians there and take some desperately needed funds to this orphanage. This provides the perfect opportunity for them to raise money and hand deliver it to these precious children and their caretakers. As Tony and I have prayed about this we continue to have James 1:27 running through our minds..."Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you." We know this mission is one that is close to the heart of our Lord. I am including a link to Randy's website that gives even more details...If the Lord puts this on your heart...your investment in these children is an investment in the Kingdom.
Here are some words my sister wrote recently,"These children have lost their parents due to the HIV AIDS virus and others have been rescued from child traffickers. These children are lovingly cared for and blessed by adults who have sacrificed a great deal to protect them, feed and educate them. Recently we received a letter from the director there describing the present needs of the orphanage. The Lord has put it on our heart to raise what money we can to take and bless these children and their caregivers."
Here is a link to my brother-in-law's business website where they are currently raising money as well.
http://www.1429creative.com/benin
http://www.1429creative.com/beninkids
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Because of Payton
Payton is 6! He walked into our room yesterday (On the 15th) at 6:45 and crawled into bed with us. I said, "Happy Birthday Pater!" and he responded, "You are kidding me, it had completely slipped my mind." I started telling Payton his birth story and mentioned that the day he was born was the first 100 degree day of 2002. He looked at me and said, "I will tell you one thing, you can be sure I never saw that coming."
My word we love that boy!
Because of Payton we have learned life is way more fun with his commentary.
Because of Payton we have seen that his cousins are worth screaming and jumping up and down over every time we mention the slightest chance we might see them.
Because of Payton we have learned that someone actaully can have nightmares about Veggietales. He is still frightened by extremly large cucumbers.
Because of Payton we have had to remind him that even though he can tell time does not mean that his parents, grandparents, teachers, etc...want a running account of how many minutes they are running behind.
Because of Payton I am still asked everytime we pull in Starbucks, "Does dad know about this?"
Because of Payton, I have actually heard the words, "Let's go someplace that has vegetables...I know I have eaten enough sweets to last me a month."
Because of Payton if I ever wander across the aisle at Walmart to get something I hear, "Excuse me, are you leaving us unattended because this basket specifically says DO NOT leave your children unattended."
Because of Payton and examples like the one above...I get lots of smile as we grocery shop.
Because of Payton I am well aware anytime we encounter a smell that is not good. We are working on NOT trying to figure out the source as this can become embaressing when strangers are around.
Because of Payton we see daily a tender hearted little boy who really does think through everything!
Because of Payton Tony and I feel completely loved...He is our encourager and is always expressing his love for us.
Because of Payton our life is overflowing with more and more of every good thing. 6 years ago we walked into a hospital with no idea what it meant to be parents. When they released us from the hospital Tony looked at me and said, "They are not just going to let us leave with him are they? Isn't there more they should tell us before we take him home?" Tony drove 20 mph the whole way home (on the highway) and I cried the entire drive wondering how we were going to make it. Payton has taught us so much...We have enjoyed almost all of it. :) His life and the deep desire we feel to raise him in a way that honors the Lord calls us to our knees time and time again. We are beside ourselves with thankfulness that he is ours...Line up every 6 year old in the world and we are going to search until we find him...Of course we will just have to look for the part of the line that is a little more organized than the rest and he will be there. May the Lord continue to grow and develop this boy...May every dream He had in mind when he created him come true! We love him so!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Because of Benjamin
Our Benjamin turned 4 today! (on July 10th...mom is running a bit behind)
He woke up to great confusion because his parents were singing Happy Birthday to him his older brother was trying to explain that because his party was not today he was not really four. After older brother was silenced(temporarily), the celebrating began!
How we love this boy!
Because of Benjamin we have read more parenting books than any one person can count.
Because of Benjamin we have laughed harder than we thought possible.
Because of Benjamin we have watched two brothers forge a friendship that survives through great laughter and through tears.
Because of Benjamin we have watched Payton's deeply protective side develop.
Because of Benjamin we have a better view of what Tony was like as a little boy.
Because of Benjamin we know what its like to lose a stare down battle with a 3 year old.
Because of Benjamin we know what it is like to lose your 3 year old at a water park for 20 minutes.
Because of Benjamin we daily know how loved we are...He is great at affirming us.
Because of Benjamin we are reminded daily by him to ask the Lord that he would have no bad dreams and that someday he will hit a ball out of the park.
Because of Benjamin we daily go out and watch him slide, hit, and catch the ball.
Because of Benjamin we have had to start imposing the rule...No matter how badly you need to go to the restroom, the garage is not the place.
Because of Benjamin we have learned that someone can actually get full on an almond.
Because of Benjamin we have been told, "That when I disobey you I DO NOT (caps reflect yelling) want you to spank me!" This did not go over well.
Because of Benjamin we have learned to recognize "a mischevious look" and run frantically through the house looking for what has just occurred.
Because of Benjamin we live our life fuller, smile bigger and sleep better at night.
Our list could go on and on. For 4 years we have treasured this boy...and raised our hands in thankfulness to the Lord that he is ours. I must say at least 10 times a day..."I am so crazy about him." Tony always smiles and agrees. Payton will say he has no better friend than his brother. When we went into the delivery room 4 years ago we had no idea who was coming...When they said. "Its a boy!" We both screamed with excitement...We so wanted brothers who could play together, be strong together, and glorify the Lord together. We have not been disappointed. Daily as we hear something thrown a bit too hard against the wall, or perhaps we see a wrestling match taken a bit too far, I smile (sometimes after I have gotten a bit of perspective) and thank the Lord. This is exactly who we wanted...and we praise Him for the gift that is our Benjamin! Line up every 4 year old in the world and he is our first choice...after all...We are crazy about him!
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
It's July?!
I am overwhelmed that July is here...Where does the time go? We are 7 weeks away from Eden's due date, 8 weeks away from Payton starting school, 9 weeks away from me being locked in a padded room somewhere.:)
We are enjoying every moment of togetherness we can get our hands on...and loving every minute of it! Here are some stories I am wanting to remember...
1. I am moving slower these days. The other day we were late to church and Payton's teacher said, "Are you guys running behind?" Payton replied, "My mom is as cute as a bug, but as slow as a turtle these days."
2. The other day Payton wanted to know how you get your last name...I was explaining how boys carry on their family name and girls often take the last name of the man they marry. Payton responded with, "I have no idea who I want to marry." I reassured him he had a good many years before he even needed to consider that. Benjamin said, "I know exactly who I am going to marry." We asked him who and with the sweetest smile he said, "My mom." Payton then said, "OH benjamin, that is so embaressing, mom is so much taller than you."
3. The other day I got the boys both a cheesestick for a snack. Payton said we sing about these at church...puzzled I said, "What?" He started singing (To the tune of Shout to the Lord) "My cheesestick, My savior" Ummm...we are still working on basic theology over here.
4. One of our friends gave Eden a swimsuit. Benjamin was very concerned about how she would get it off to go to the bathroom. I explained that she would wear a diaper under it and she would just go to the bathroom in that. He sat there for a second and said, "I am sitting here waiting for you to tell me you're kidding. That's disgusting."
5. In what could be an entirely different post, our house was on the market, got a full price offer and then we took it off the market...(we both felt our timing was off, sometimes you don't realize you are pushing yourself until you get to the edge of the cliff)...However, during the time it was in process we were looking at a bunch of different houses...Payton one day told us that we needed to be sure our next house had 5 bedrooms. When we asked why He said, "Because Benjamin and I don't want to share a room anymore and I am betting you and dad don't either."
6. The boys (for some reason) love the thought of Dairy Queen though we do not frequent it. I told them we could eat breakfast there after I noticed it opened at 8 AM. We got up and went and they do not even have a breakfast menu, they do not even serve juice. However you can get the full belt/hunger buster menu in the AM...we were happy to get this picture, enjoy drink and head to McDonalds.
7. Last week we finished our summer swim lessons...Both boys made huge strides. Payton, ever our cautious insurance adjuster (He evaluates and calculates risk before entering any unknown) is now doing quite well. Benjamin is still working on "Get the wall"(My goal for him was just to be able to get out if and when he falls in, which occurs almost everytime we are around a pool) and he is doing better. We are crazy over Ms. Jody...and all of our friends that took with us. Such a fun time of watching hte kids interact and having some sweet time with my friends.
8. Totally unrelated to my family...but how long can Dippin Dots say its the ice cream of the future? They came out with that stuff while I was in college 11 years ago...The future has arrived and it is not Dippin Dots.
9. This Thursday, the 3rd, my sisters family will have been home a full year from Benin. It has been a year of adjustments and victories for their family. They have done great. Here's to the next year being even better!
10.
My dearest friend BJ made this wreath for Eden's baby shower/to hang on the hospital room door. I find myself staring at it several times a day, praying for this sweet baby girl who we cannot wait to meet.
I hope to do a better job of documenting in the coming weeks...We have Benjamin's birthday on the 10th, Payton's on the 15th...a month full of celebrations. I am so thankful for this season of anticipation in our life.
We are enjoying every moment of togetherness we can get our hands on...and loving every minute of it! Here are some stories I am wanting to remember...
1. I am moving slower these days. The other day we were late to church and Payton's teacher said, "Are you guys running behind?" Payton replied, "My mom is as cute as a bug, but as slow as a turtle these days."
2. The other day Payton wanted to know how you get your last name...I was explaining how boys carry on their family name and girls often take the last name of the man they marry. Payton responded with, "I have no idea who I want to marry." I reassured him he had a good many years before he even needed to consider that. Benjamin said, "I know exactly who I am going to marry." We asked him who and with the sweetest smile he said, "My mom." Payton then said, "OH benjamin, that is so embaressing, mom is so much taller than you."
3. The other day I got the boys both a cheesestick for a snack. Payton said we sing about these at church...puzzled I said, "What?" He started singing (To the tune of Shout to the Lord) "My cheesestick, My savior" Ummm...we are still working on basic theology over here.
4. One of our friends gave Eden a swimsuit. Benjamin was very concerned about how she would get it off to go to the bathroom. I explained that she would wear a diaper under it and she would just go to the bathroom in that. He sat there for a second and said, "I am sitting here waiting for you to tell me you're kidding. That's disgusting."
5. In what could be an entirely different post, our house was on the market, got a full price offer and then we took it off the market...(we both felt our timing was off, sometimes you don't realize you are pushing yourself until you get to the edge of the cliff)...However, during the time it was in process we were looking at a bunch of different houses...Payton one day told us that we needed to be sure our next house had 5 bedrooms. When we asked why He said, "Because Benjamin and I don't want to share a room anymore and I am betting you and dad don't either."
6. The boys (for some reason) love the thought of Dairy Queen though we do not frequent it. I told them we could eat breakfast there after I noticed it opened at 8 AM. We got up and went and they do not even have a breakfast menu, they do not even serve juice. However you can get the full belt/hunger buster menu in the AM...we were happy to get this picture, enjoy drink and head to McDonalds.
7. Last week we finished our summer swim lessons...Both boys made huge strides. Payton, ever our cautious insurance adjuster (He evaluates and calculates risk before entering any unknown) is now doing quite well. Benjamin is still working on "Get the wall"(My goal for him was just to be able to get out if and when he falls in, which occurs almost everytime we are around a pool) and he is doing better. We are crazy over Ms. Jody...and all of our friends that took with us. Such a fun time of watching hte kids interact and having some sweet time with my friends.
8. Totally unrelated to my family...but how long can Dippin Dots say its the ice cream of the future? They came out with that stuff while I was in college 11 years ago...The future has arrived and it is not Dippin Dots.
9. This Thursday, the 3rd, my sisters family will have been home a full year from Benin. It has been a year of adjustments and victories for their family. They have done great. Here's to the next year being even better!
10.
My dearest friend BJ made this wreath for Eden's baby shower/to hang on the hospital room door. I find myself staring at it several times a day, praying for this sweet baby girl who we cannot wait to meet.
I hope to do a better job of documenting in the coming weeks...We have Benjamin's birthday on the 10th, Payton's on the 15th...a month full of celebrations. I am so thankful for this season of anticipation in our life.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Lifes latest
1. The other night after the boys were in bed Payton called me back in to his room. When I walked in he said, "Mom, I think if you can answer one question I will finally be able to go to sleep." I said, "Then ask it." His response was, "How old is God?" It took me awhile to get him to sleep.
2. The other day as we were eating lunch Payton said, "I think I may be the smartest person in the world." I told him, "You know, you are smart, but that is not something you want to talk about. You want to say things that make others feel good about themselves rather than things that just make you feel good about yourself....etc, etc...Do you understand?" He replied, "Sure, well I at least know for sure I am the smartest one in this family." I do not think he got my message at all...still working on that.
3. The other day after eating pancakes I told Benjamin he needed to go wash his hands in the bathroom. He began to cry and said, "How come you never clean me like a dog?" I looked at him and told him I had no idea what he was talking about. He proceeded to tell me some of his friends moms just lick their hands and clean their kids with their tongues...WHAT?! I never thought this would be our lead in to the conversation that there are somethings that your friends are going to be comfortable with that our family has decided we will not do.
4. Almost everyday the boys play the game Tarzan (they call him Tarzam) and Pirates...Best I can tell the game consists of the pirate running around in full costume yelling Arrgh and Tarzam (who is rather modest at our house) stripping down to boxers and undershirt and running from tree to tree on all fours in our backyard. Here are some pictures from Tarzam and Pirate taking a popscile break.
5. We went to one of the most fun weddings this past weekend. My brother Andy was the best man for Jeremy Epps. Jeremy married Jessica and their love for each other overflowed throughout the ceremony. We left so happy for them and so encouraged about life. We had a babysitter for the night and had a fun date afterwards...Sure love that Tony.
6. We wound up T-ball season this past Saturday. I was sad to see it end. We were incredibly blessed to have fun watching our boys and meet new friends. I hope we play with the same people next year. We loved every minute of being with the New life crew! Here's a picture of my favorite coach talking to my favorite pitcher.
7. Andy and Jessica made the last game. The boys are crazy over A and J. In the mind of a 3 and 5 year old, A and J are celebrities. The boys cannot have a clear thought when we are about to see them and they are reduced to awed silence in their presence. SO CUTE! We loved having them there to cheer.
8. Speaking of celebrities...when Payton was one year old my brother worked in the White house. As a result we were able to meet the President once when he was coming in on Marine One. Things worked out where we got a couple of great pictures of GW talking to and holding Payton. The other day a friend asked Payton (when looking at the picture) "Who is that holding you?" He responded, "That was back when the President used to babysit me."
9.Eden is doing great in utero. Her most active hours are between 3 and 5 AM. I feel like she is prepping me for things to come. I am up and moving during those hours these days (of couse that means that between the afternoon hours of 2-4 I am not up and moving)...I do love feeling her every move. It is such a gift. I am currently 29 weeks along.
10. The other day Payton got up early and we had some time to talk just us. I thought we were having a great conversation when in the middle of it, he picked up the remote and turned the TV on. I said, "Payton we were talking." He quickly turned the TV off and said, "Wow, you really have a lot on your mind lately. Go ahead."
11. A couple of months back I was really struggling... There were (still are) some things that were a part of our life that were beyond our control that brought a great deal of stress to our life. I had the definite feeling of suffocating under the weight of it all. I went to a counselor in order to just hear myself process some things out loud. It was eye opening for me and so good to get some outside perspective. One of the things that she did that has blessed me so much was read the words to "It is well with my soul". When we got to the end, she said, "Right now your "Even so" is off. Things are not well with your soul...circumstances are rocking you and your emotions and our goal is to get you back to where when things of life occur...you can say once more, "Even so, it is well with my soul"." We are in process (we always will be) of growing deeper in Him....of getting to the point where we can say, "Even so, it is well with my soul."
We are on the same journey Paul was on when he talked about having to LEARN contentment in any and every circumstance. Our prayers continue that the Lord would hear our cry and change circumstances...But we are feeling more and more content...resting in the pray of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Daniel 3:16...We believe He is a God who can change things...but even if He does not...It is well with our soul. Its a lifelong journey we are on...but its comforting when you feel yourself walking a bit deeper into the ocean of peace and contentment that is ours in Christ. The deeper you get, the less the waves knock you over. I think we are getting our "even so" back on track.
**A huge hooray for anyone who made it this far...Payton is right, I have alot on my mind these days.
2. The other day as we were eating lunch Payton said, "I think I may be the smartest person in the world." I told him, "You know, you are smart, but that is not something you want to talk about. You want to say things that make others feel good about themselves rather than things that just make you feel good about yourself....etc, etc...Do you understand?" He replied, "Sure, well I at least know for sure I am the smartest one in this family." I do not think he got my message at all...still working on that.
3. The other day after eating pancakes I told Benjamin he needed to go wash his hands in the bathroom. He began to cry and said, "How come you never clean me like a dog?" I looked at him and told him I had no idea what he was talking about. He proceeded to tell me some of his friends moms just lick their hands and clean their kids with their tongues...WHAT?! I never thought this would be our lead in to the conversation that there are somethings that your friends are going to be comfortable with that our family has decided we will not do.
4. Almost everyday the boys play the game Tarzan (they call him Tarzam) and Pirates...Best I can tell the game consists of the pirate running around in full costume yelling Arrgh and Tarzam (who is rather modest at our house) stripping down to boxers and undershirt and running from tree to tree on all fours in our backyard. Here are some pictures from Tarzam and Pirate taking a popscile break.
5. We went to one of the most fun weddings this past weekend. My brother Andy was the best man for Jeremy Epps. Jeremy married Jessica and their love for each other overflowed throughout the ceremony. We left so happy for them and so encouraged about life. We had a babysitter for the night and had a fun date afterwards...Sure love that Tony.
6. We wound up T-ball season this past Saturday. I was sad to see it end. We were incredibly blessed to have fun watching our boys and meet new friends. I hope we play with the same people next year. We loved every minute of being with the New life crew! Here's a picture of my favorite coach talking to my favorite pitcher.
7. Andy and Jessica made the last game. The boys are crazy over A and J. In the mind of a 3 and 5 year old, A and J are celebrities. The boys cannot have a clear thought when we are about to see them and they are reduced to awed silence in their presence. SO CUTE! We loved having them there to cheer.
8. Speaking of celebrities...when Payton was one year old my brother worked in the White house. As a result we were able to meet the President once when he was coming in on Marine One. Things worked out where we got a couple of great pictures of GW talking to and holding Payton. The other day a friend asked Payton (when looking at the picture) "Who is that holding you?" He responded, "That was back when the President used to babysit me."
9.Eden is doing great in utero. Her most active hours are between 3 and 5 AM. I feel like she is prepping me for things to come. I am up and moving during those hours these days (of couse that means that between the afternoon hours of 2-4 I am not up and moving)...I do love feeling her every move. It is such a gift. I am currently 29 weeks along.
10. The other day Payton got up early and we had some time to talk just us. I thought we were having a great conversation when in the middle of it, he picked up the remote and turned the TV on. I said, "Payton we were talking." He quickly turned the TV off and said, "Wow, you really have a lot on your mind lately. Go ahead."
11. A couple of months back I was really struggling... There were (still are) some things that were a part of our life that were beyond our control that brought a great deal of stress to our life. I had the definite feeling of suffocating under the weight of it all. I went to a counselor in order to just hear myself process some things out loud. It was eye opening for me and so good to get some outside perspective. One of the things that she did that has blessed me so much was read the words to "It is well with my soul". When we got to the end, she said, "Right now your "Even so" is off. Things are not well with your soul...circumstances are rocking you and your emotions and our goal is to get you back to where when things of life occur...you can say once more, "Even so, it is well with my soul"." We are in process (we always will be) of growing deeper in Him....of getting to the point where we can say, "Even so, it is well with my soul."
We are on the same journey Paul was on when he talked about having to LEARN contentment in any and every circumstance. Our prayers continue that the Lord would hear our cry and change circumstances...But we are feeling more and more content...resting in the pray of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in Daniel 3:16...We believe He is a God who can change things...but even if He does not...It is well with our soul. Its a lifelong journey we are on...but its comforting when you feel yourself walking a bit deeper into the ocean of peace and contentment that is ours in Christ. The deeper you get, the less the waves knock you over. I think we are getting our "even so" back on track.
**A huge hooray for anyone who made it this far...Payton is right, I have alot on my mind these days.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Vacation
We just returned from a week at the beach...It was wonderful. (Nothing like our beach experience last year)(See October 1st, 2007 post for that awful/enjoyable trip down memory lane)
We loved literally every minute of it. There is something so wonderful about having a week where your only priority is to enjoy each other. The boys loved having every minute with their dad (So did I). We loved eating every meal together... We loved laughing with each other over things that sometimes we are too busy here to even notice. Here are a couple of our favorite memories...
1. On the first day we were there we were sitting on the beach eating our lunch when Payton said, "You guys have no idea how badly I have needed this." Obviously in the business of life we had not realized how playing from sun up till sun down was taking its toll on our Pate. :)
2. Benjamin loves to play "I spy"...We love his creativity with the game...Everyone can be playing as normal and then when its his turn he will say, "I spy a mom who wants a diet coke and that's OK...because I am thirsty too...Good idea mom."
3. We loved opening our doors in the morning and smelling the ocean. One morning we opened the door and Payton said, "fresh air and freedom, I can't get enough."
4. Tony's aunt and uncle live in the beach town that we visited...We had a blast being with them every moment we could.
5. Payton is currently fascinated with subtraction. Therefore he wants to know how old everyone is so he can then subtract his age from theirs and tell them how much older /or younger he is. My mom and I have been trying to explain/teach him that women do not like being asked upon first meeting them, "Exactly how old are you?" He is getting better at bypassing this conversation with constant reminders from his mother. I thought we were perhaps done with this stage until he met random lady the other day and when she introduced herself he said, "Exactly how much do you weigh?" NICE. We move from offensive to over the top offensive.
6. Benjamin practiced baseball every chance he got. He took his glove and a ball everywhere. He would pick up a long piece of seaweed and use it as a pretend bat and work on his swing. I told Tony one of my favorite things about this is watching different guys/dads walk by...and how many of them stop, regardless of where we are (Benjamin does his practice swing everywhere) and comment/critique/compliment. So sweet to me...and of course Benj eats it up.
7. I enjoy the ocean, however, I have to concentrate on not thinking about what could possibly be lurking under the water. Watching Payton and Tony go farther out and farther out gave me plenty of opportunities to work on my Lamaze.
8. Benjamin started crying when we had to leave for home. Tony had already explained that he wanted us on the road by 9 AM to try and avoid as much Memorial Day traffic as possible. We have realized that one of the worst things we have done in parenting was teach Payton to tell time. I sat down by Benj and told him I understood, I did not want to leave either, I did not want his dad to go back to work, etc...etc.. As I was consoling him, Payton walked in, pointed to the clock and said, "It's 8:52, you two have 8 minutes to wrap this up." At times it becomes incredibly apparent that in Payton we have duplicated his father.
9.
This is right before the guard asked Benjamin to quit messing with million dollar equipment. The dude was hanging on the nose cone...I was taking a pic of his dad and brother. 10.
I took this same picture almost every day of the boys walking home. I loved it...Such precious memories.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Our Life...
1. We got our first package addressed "to the Brooks Girls" the other day from my sweet sister-in-law. I stared at that envelope for forever. We are having so much fun anticipating pink becoming a part of things around here.
2. I wonder how many times a day I use the word Boys. Said in different tones I use it as a:
command- interpreted as "Stop throwing baseballs at the ceiling fan."
question- interpreted as "why are there unrolled rolls of toilet paper all over the bathroom."
warning-interpreted as "I am on my way to find you, if you are found doing something you have been told not to do, trouble is on the way."
blessing-interpreted as "I am so thankful you two are mine."
sigh-while looking at the clock thinking "when does your dad get home?"
3. We have been working the on P and B not slamming doors. The other night they ran inside and once again, every picture was slanted. Tony in an exasperated voice said, "Boys, how many times do I have to tell you not to slam the door." Payton in his most respectful voice said, "Once more would be nice."
4. We have also been working constantly on saying yes ma'am or yes sir. The other night I told P to do something and he matter of fact said "No." I looked back at him and said, "I want you to look at me in the eyes and tell me if there is ever a good time to tell me No." He looked me in the eyes and said, "Well it feels like right now it might work." Tony and I are learning to think through our questions before we ask them.
5. Tomorrow is Tony's Birthday. 9 years ago tomorrow we went on our 1st date. I know I say it every year, but falling in love with Tony was the easiest, most fun thing I have ever done. My insomnia is back full force, so I have had a lot of time to thank the Lord for the sweetness of life that I experience because Tony is my husband...Here are just a few things I love about him:
* The guy is a worker...He is ready to help, fix, build, clean you name it...I always have a peace that whatever it is, he can take care of it.
* I love laughing with him at the end of the day...hearing his take on my day, on his day, on where we are at...One of the best things that Growing Kids God's Way taught was Couch time-the importance of your kid seeing you daily enjoying each other. Our kids see us laughing together daily because that is important to T.
* I love that he insists on me having a 4 wheel drive vehicle "Because you never know" But if I ever tell him I actually used it he gets a bit uptight that I have just possibly torn out the transmission.
* I love it that he knows me the best and still loves me. He has seen every side of me...many of which are hard to love...yet even in the most difficult of times he has continude to be my number one.
* I love it that he is easy to love.
* I love it that he is a healthy eater...I would of been content to order a pizza everyday of my married life and eat desert after that. Thankfully, he calls me and our whole family, to a higher ground...and when he goes on hunting trips the boys and I eat pizza everyday and skittles for breakfast.
* I love it that he is still a mystery. As he allows the Lord to transform him I realize more and more I cannot predict him or his reactions.
* I love it that he enjoys our boys as much as I do.
* I love it that he is still so cute to me.
* I love watching him box, play basketball, play chase, play tennis, play any and everything with our kids...He works hard during the day and comes home tired, but I love watching him come in and engage as a dad immediately.
The list could go on and on...I am so thankful he is mine,so thankful that 9 years ago he called back and said "I know you said you had a lot to do...but you have to eat and its my birthday...Let's go celebrate." The best thing I ever did was say, "Sure." Thank you God for TDB!
2. I wonder how many times a day I use the word Boys. Said in different tones I use it as a:
command- interpreted as "Stop throwing baseballs at the ceiling fan."
question- interpreted as "why are there unrolled rolls of toilet paper all over the bathroom."
warning-interpreted as "I am on my way to find you, if you are found doing something you have been told not to do, trouble is on the way."
blessing-interpreted as "I am so thankful you two are mine."
sigh-while looking at the clock thinking "when does your dad get home?"
3. We have been working the on P and B not slamming doors. The other night they ran inside and once again, every picture was slanted. Tony in an exasperated voice said, "Boys, how many times do I have to tell you not to slam the door." Payton in his most respectful voice said, "Once more would be nice."
4. We have also been working constantly on saying yes ma'am or yes sir. The other night I told P to do something and he matter of fact said "No." I looked back at him and said, "I want you to look at me in the eyes and tell me if there is ever a good time to tell me No." He looked me in the eyes and said, "Well it feels like right now it might work." Tony and I are learning to think through our questions before we ask them.
5. Tomorrow is Tony's Birthday. 9 years ago tomorrow we went on our 1st date. I know I say it every year, but falling in love with Tony was the easiest, most fun thing I have ever done. My insomnia is back full force, so I have had a lot of time to thank the Lord for the sweetness of life that I experience because Tony is my husband...Here are just a few things I love about him:
* The guy is a worker...He is ready to help, fix, build, clean you name it...I always have a peace that whatever it is, he can take care of it.
* I love laughing with him at the end of the day...hearing his take on my day, on his day, on where we are at...One of the best things that Growing Kids God's Way taught was Couch time-the importance of your kid seeing you daily enjoying each other. Our kids see us laughing together daily because that is important to T.
* I love that he insists on me having a 4 wheel drive vehicle "Because you never know" But if I ever tell him I actually used it he gets a bit uptight that I have just possibly torn out the transmission.
* I love it that he knows me the best and still loves me. He has seen every side of me...many of which are hard to love...yet even in the most difficult of times he has continude to be my number one.
* I love it that he is easy to love.
* I love it that he is a healthy eater...I would of been content to order a pizza everyday of my married life and eat desert after that. Thankfully, he calls me and our whole family, to a higher ground...and when he goes on hunting trips the boys and I eat pizza everyday and skittles for breakfast.
* I love it that he is still a mystery. As he allows the Lord to transform him I realize more and more I cannot predict him or his reactions.
* I love it that he enjoys our boys as much as I do.
* I love it that he is still so cute to me.
* I love watching him box, play basketball, play chase, play tennis, play any and everything with our kids...He works hard during the day and comes home tired, but I love watching him come in and engage as a dad immediately.
The list could go on and on...I am so thankful he is mine,so thankful that 9 years ago he called back and said "I know you said you had a lot to do...but you have to eat and its my birthday...Let's go celebrate." The best thing I ever did was say, "Sure." Thank you God for TDB!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
The latest...
While I was at the Dr. yesterday Payton lost 2 teeth. One was pulled by a friend, the other, best we can tell is in his digestive system somewhere, we are choosing not to look for it :). He was beside himself. He has now lost 4 teeth. Today was the 2 on the bottom
Anytime Benjamin so much as hears a camera click he races to the scene.
Payton asked if he could take some pictures. As you can tell from the look on Benjamin's face he asked us to hold our smile for at least 2 minutes before he pushed the button. Obviously the boy likes a close up.
Then of course Benjamin had to take a turn.
My dad reminded me last night of Phillipians 4:6, that with thanksgiving I can present my worries, even my tears to the Lord as a prayer while at the same time cultivating a heart of thankfulness. I love the way it reads in The Message. "Do not fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life."
I am certanly feeling more settled this morning. Thanks so much for your prayers, phone calls and emails.
***Why is this highlighted as if there is a link? When you click on it, you can actually tell I have something in my teeth. Thank you blogspot! :)
Anytime Benjamin so much as hears a camera click he races to the scene.
Payton asked if he could take some pictures. As you can tell from the look on Benjamin's face he asked us to hold our smile for at least 2 minutes before he pushed the button. Obviously the boy likes a close up.
Then of course Benjamin had to take a turn.
My dad reminded me last night of Phillipians 4:6, that with thanksgiving I can present my worries, even my tears to the Lord as a prayer while at the same time cultivating a heart of thankfulness. I love the way it reads in The Message. "Do not fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life."
I am certanly feeling more settled this morning. Thanks so much for your prayers, phone calls and emails.
***Why is this highlighted as if there is a link? When you click on it, you can actually tell I have something in my teeth. Thank you blogspot! :)
Monday, April 28, 2008
Update
Thank you so much for the comments and prayers...what a blessing to have a group of friends far and wide who lift up my family and I.
My Dr.'s appt. this morning went well. I was given permission to resume life on a much slower pace being ever aware of my body and any signals it might be trying to give towards going in to labor.
I have been extremely emotional today...my tears have flowed freely. Part of my appointment was going over different scenarios and complications to be aware of. None of it should of been surprising, they certainly were not saying "here is what is going to happen", just here are some things we want to be checking...but for some reason it hit me in different way today.
I ponder my heart on days like today. Last week I felt confident and assured. Today I have just felt...sad. I know the Lord has not changed.
I watched Shadowlands last week. (The story of CS Lewis and his marriage to a woman who was dying of cancer) I love that movie. The quotes in it are incredible. At one point in the movie his wife is going into remission and one of his colleagues says,"Now God is answering your prayers." CS Lewis then says, "That is not why I pray. I pray because I cannot help myself. I pray because I am helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me waking and sleeping. Prayer does not change God, it changes me." Certainly our (Mine and CS) situations or wrestlings in life do not compare. Yet that quote has resonated with me. The desperation for the Lord, the helplessness... I long for the Lord to change me as well.
My sister reminded me today that Eden's testimony has begun....May the Lord be magnified in her life and in each member of our family. Thanks for being a part of our life.
My Dr.'s appt. this morning went well. I was given permission to resume life on a much slower pace being ever aware of my body and any signals it might be trying to give towards going in to labor.
I have been extremely emotional today...my tears have flowed freely. Part of my appointment was going over different scenarios and complications to be aware of. None of it should of been surprising, they certainly were not saying "here is what is going to happen", just here are some things we want to be checking...but for some reason it hit me in different way today.
I ponder my heart on days like today. Last week I felt confident and assured. Today I have just felt...sad. I know the Lord has not changed.
I watched Shadowlands last week. (The story of CS Lewis and his marriage to a woman who was dying of cancer) I love that movie. The quotes in it are incredible. At one point in the movie his wife is going into remission and one of his colleagues says,"Now God is answering your prayers." CS Lewis then says, "That is not why I pray. I pray because I cannot help myself. I pray because I am helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me waking and sleeping. Prayer does not change God, it changes me." Certainly our (Mine and CS) situations or wrestlings in life do not compare. Yet that quote has resonated with me. The desperation for the Lord, the helplessness... I long for the Lord to change me as well.
My sister reminded me today that Eden's testimony has begun....May the Lord be magnified in her life and in each member of our family. Thanks for being a part of our life.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Eden Elizabeth
We have a name! Eden- (means the Lord's delight) Elizabeth (after her aunt Kelly Elizabeth means God's beloved)Oh how we love this girl already!
I feel like most are aware of this but here is the email I sent out on Tuesday...
friends-
Some of you have already heard this but I wanted to give the quick update. This morning after running a few errands I realized I was bleeding...feeling a bit panicked I called Tony and my OB at the same time. I ended up spending most of the day downtown. I was feeling Eden kicking the entire drive downtown so that was reassuring but the tears of the unknown were still flowing.
They got a heart beat on doppler as soon as I arrived and reassured me it was strong. They did a check, confirmed that the bleeding was not related to anything else and then scheduled a sono for later in the afternoon (as soon as the tech arrived).
The sonogram showed no tears, a healthy baby (already over 1 lb), great fluid level, placenta in good position and Eden sucking on her toes nearly the entire time we watched her. The Dr. believes I have just been doing too much and as a result I will now be on complete bed rest until a Monday AM when I will go to the Dr. to make sure everything is still good.
My parents are leaving in the morning to take the boys to the ranch. They will keep them there until Friday when Tony can take on the tigers full time.
I was telling a friend today that as I laid on that table most of the day I thought of Rick's sermon about being made to lie down in green pastures. We are praying the bleeding stops soon...We are praying I can carry this precious baby girl that we already love so dearly to term (Everything shown today points to the fact that if this bleeding will stop that should not be a problem)...We are trusting that none of the events of today have caught the Lord off-guard. He is in complete control...We will walk in trust of our Father...actually Tony will walk, I will lie down in the green pasture of trust.:)
I feel like most are aware of this but here is the email I sent out on Tuesday...
friends-
Some of you have already heard this but I wanted to give the quick update. This morning after running a few errands I realized I was bleeding...feeling a bit panicked I called Tony and my OB at the same time. I ended up spending most of the day downtown. I was feeling Eden kicking the entire drive downtown so that was reassuring but the tears of the unknown were still flowing.
They got a heart beat on doppler as soon as I arrived and reassured me it was strong. They did a check, confirmed that the bleeding was not related to anything else and then scheduled a sono for later in the afternoon (as soon as the tech arrived).
The sonogram showed no tears, a healthy baby (already over 1 lb), great fluid level, placenta in good position and Eden sucking on her toes nearly the entire time we watched her. The Dr. believes I have just been doing too much and as a result I will now be on complete bed rest until a Monday AM when I will go to the Dr. to make sure everything is still good.
My parents are leaving in the morning to take the boys to the ranch. They will keep them there until Friday when Tony can take on the tigers full time.
I was telling a friend today that as I laid on that table most of the day I thought of Rick's sermon about being made to lie down in green pastures. We are praying the bleeding stops soon...We are praying I can carry this precious baby girl that we already love so dearly to term (Everything shown today points to the fact that if this bleeding will stop that should not be a problem)...We are trusting that none of the events of today have caught the Lord off-guard. He is in complete control...We will walk in trust of our Father...actually Tony will walk, I will lie down in the green pasture of trust.:)
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
My Favorite Nightmare
The other night around 3 AM I woke up to hear someone sprinting down on our hall. A few seconds later Payton was at my bedside telling me he had just had a terrible nightmare. His heart was racing and he seemed paniced. I picked him up and put him in bed with us and asked him he wanted to talk about it and he said, "No, I just want to be between you and dad." Happy to oblige we each held a hand and went back to sleep.
The next morning at breakfast I asked Payton if he wanted to talk about his dream. He said, "It was awful. I was on a boat." Quick to imagine the terrors that could of come from this I said, "Oh were you by yourself? Did you fall in the water? Did you feel lost?" He said, "No, it was an ocean liner, there were a lot of people." Once again, quick to imagine the terror he had felt I said, "Were you hurt? Did someone grab you?" To which he responded, "No, that ship blew its horn and scared me to death."
The next morning at breakfast I asked Payton if he wanted to talk about his dream. He said, "It was awful. I was on a boat." Quick to imagine the terrors that could of come from this I said, "Oh were you by yourself? Did you fall in the water? Did you feel lost?" He said, "No, it was an ocean liner, there were a lot of people." Once again, quick to imagine the terror he had felt I said, "Were you hurt? Did someone grab you?" To which he responded, "No, that ship blew its horn and scared me to death."
Monday, April 07, 2008
Opening day and other Family Happenings
1. Saturday was opening day of t-ball season. The boys were beside themselves...Benjamin more than anyone. He was up at the crack of dawn, fully dressed and stretching for the days events. It was a great day of watching them both have fun.
2. Benjamin is crazy over baseball. We have no way of knowing how long this will last but right now, he is a child obsessed. Both boys get a 30 minute cartoon to watch everyday. Benjamin chooses to watch ESPN or a baseball game Tony has dvred. Last night after (I thought) everyone had been asleep for awhile Benjamin came and said, "Mom, what are you doing?" I responded, "Sleeping." He said, "Mom when you are watching me run around the bases and slide into home are you so proud?" I told him I was. He then said, "What do you think when I swing the bat like this? (and proceeded to demonstrate his best imaginary swing) I told him I loved it and realizing this was turning into a conversation walked him back to bed where he re-lived his game in detail. It is fun watching him enjoy this.
3. Tony was sick with a terrible virus on Friday. It lingered through the weekend. As we were walking into church a friend asked us where Tony was...I responded with, "He has a nasty bug." Later in the evening I heard someone ask Payton where his dad was...He responded with, "My dad has the fleas." We worked on the definitions of "Bug" on the way home.
4. We have been working on our rights and lefts...For some reason Benjamin has labeled his hands, my right hand and my wrong hand.
5. A month ago today I left for Canada...while I was there Benjamin was terribly sick. Tony had the baptism by fire through being up all night long for 3 nights in a row, working during the day and taking care of every need the boys had in between. 4 days into it he shared with me, "We are in survival mode around here." One of my favorite stories that was told to me was this one....Payton, ever my reporter, shared with me the day after I returned- "Mom, you know how there are things, like Scooby Doo that you do not like for us to watch on TV?" I shook my head yes. Payton then said, "Dad says watch whatever you want...just sit down." It certainly brought a smile to my face.
This is probably one of my all-time favorite pictures of our boys. Payton played after Benjamin and this was taken of them walking to the car after Pate's game was over. The were each telling each other how great the other one did. Our hearts were swelling as we walked behind them. I am thankful for pictures like this one that I can call to mind on days like today when these same two sweet ones are in a rolling brawl in the produce section of Walmart or using the toilet at the same time in the doctors office with the door wide open.Thanks to all of you for your excitement over our precious girl. Your excitement makes it even more fun!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sonogram....
I know I have so much catching up to do on this blog...My trip to Canada was amazing...Tony wins dad of the year for his 10 days on his own with the boys...I have been taking little notes of all Payton and Benjamin stories anxious to record them all as soon as time permits...
Today we had the thrill of seeing our sweet little developing baby...who had its little feet crossed at the ankles laying there sucking its thumb. We cried tears of thankfulness as they scanned each little developing part and then we cried some more when they typed on the screen "It's a Girl."
We are over the top thrilled...totally shocked but completly delighted. Tony is all smiles. Payton is happy. Everytime we mention it to Benjamin he just laughs and says, "It's really a brother." Just could not wait to share our joy!
Today we had the thrill of seeing our sweet little developing baby...who had its little feet crossed at the ankles laying there sucking its thumb. We cried tears of thankfulness as they scanned each little developing part and then we cried some more when they typed on the screen "It's a Girl."
We are over the top thrilled...totally shocked but completly delighted. Tony is all smiles. Payton is happy. Everytime we mention it to Benjamin he just laughs and says, "It's really a brother." Just could not wait to share our joy!
Friday, February 29, 2008
Life...
1. Please be praying for my friend Jenny and her husband Brad. I know Jenny through Amber D. I was trying to explain to Tony how I knew her and realized it was through Amber's baby showers, Amber's Mary Kay parties, when Jenny visits Amber, etc...All this to say thanks Amber for your friendship and the gift of other great friends through you...Jenny is someone you meet and feel like you have known forever. I find these days she is my constant companion in thought. I am longing for she and Brad to see the Lord's healing...Read more here: www.thewims.blogspot.com Please pray for this precious family.
2. I leave next week for Canada. I will be gone for 11 days. Tony and the boys will do great I know. I am traveling with an organization called Come Before Winter. This team of ladies travel encouraging those who are serving the Lord around the world. I am excited to be a part of it. I will be working with the prayer team. My mom will be on the trip as well...so seriously, Tony is on his own. He's up to it, though he is needing a daily pep talk.
3. The other day Tony and I were standing in the laundry room talking. The boys bathroom was across the hall. We saw Payton stumble in there early in the morning, turn on the lights, look in the mirror and say, "Payton this is going to be a great day, you slept good, your body feels rested, you are going to see your friends, this may be the best day of your life." Then he went to the restroom. Tony and I just shook our heads. Seriously where does the kid come up with this stuff? We think he may grow up to be a motivational speaker...He is a lot more positive with himself than I am first thing in the morning.
4. Payton asked the other day why we call that bird with a long skinny neck, a fat feathery body, and long skinny legs a sausage? Took us a while to figure out he meant an ostrich.
5. The retreat last weekend was so encouraging. The message that was conveyed through the dramas, the praise, everything was that the Lord loves you, enjoys you and would choose you again in a heartbeat...in the midst of it all...Your sin, your struggles, your pain as well as your joy. I realized last week again that it is never a bad time to hear that the Lord loves you...I really needed that message. I don't guess a day goes by when I don't. The ladies that attended blessed me richly. I left feeling like I had just made a new group of friends.
6. Some of you may not know, Benjamin was our pickiest of picky eaters who also had a texture issue. These days he is still not a huge eater...but we are seeing huge strides. Today he ate 4 chicken minis for breakfast (did anyone else get the coupon for free breakfast today?), 2 eggs for lunch, the other day he ate a good amount of steak, he will eat green beans...not huge for the average 3 year old...but its something we are so thankful for.
7. We are big bottled water drinkers. I cannot stand when they are left lying around half full. I usually gather them and drink them all before I put them in the recycle bin. The other day I took a big drink out of one and told Tony..."this water smells like a dead animal." Then I looked at it closer and saw half of a chewed up pork chop floating around at the bottom along with some green beans. I am assumin g this was one of the boys water bottles. I knew we had not had pork chops in several days. Nice. I gagged.
8.The boys made the mistake a couple of weeks ago of showing me they know how to clean...not just wipe dust, I mean put things back in the exact right place, wipe baseboards, use the dust buster on the wood floors, etc (they are their father's sons)...Now they are daily workers. The other day I told them it was time for our cleaning to begin and Benjamin said, "I can't do this anymore, every day I clean, and the next day the house is dirty again. I am tired." It was a great time for a quick lesson on how to love and appreciate their mom.
9. The other day I got the boys the movie Aristicats to watch...telling them, "this was one of mom's favorite movies when she was little." I left to go fold laundry in the other room. When I walked back in they had turned it off. I asked what happened and Benjamin said, "we really are not cat people." Payton shook his head with a look of disgust...like I said, they are their father's sons.
10. The other day at lunch Tony asked who wants to pray for us and Benjamin raised his hand. As if we are were in a room with hundreds Payton said, "Look dad, a volunteer."
2. I leave next week for Canada. I will be gone for 11 days. Tony and the boys will do great I know. I am traveling with an organization called Come Before Winter. This team of ladies travel encouraging those who are serving the Lord around the world. I am excited to be a part of it. I will be working with the prayer team. My mom will be on the trip as well...so seriously, Tony is on his own. He's up to it, though he is needing a daily pep talk.
3. The other day Tony and I were standing in the laundry room talking. The boys bathroom was across the hall. We saw Payton stumble in there early in the morning, turn on the lights, look in the mirror and say, "Payton this is going to be a great day, you slept good, your body feels rested, you are going to see your friends, this may be the best day of your life." Then he went to the restroom. Tony and I just shook our heads. Seriously where does the kid come up with this stuff? We think he may grow up to be a motivational speaker...He is a lot more positive with himself than I am first thing in the morning.
4. Payton asked the other day why we call that bird with a long skinny neck, a fat feathery body, and long skinny legs a sausage? Took us a while to figure out he meant an ostrich.
5. The retreat last weekend was so encouraging. The message that was conveyed through the dramas, the praise, everything was that the Lord loves you, enjoys you and would choose you again in a heartbeat...in the midst of it all...Your sin, your struggles, your pain as well as your joy. I realized last week again that it is never a bad time to hear that the Lord loves you...I really needed that message. I don't guess a day goes by when I don't. The ladies that attended blessed me richly. I left feeling like I had just made a new group of friends.
6. Some of you may not know, Benjamin was our pickiest of picky eaters who also had a texture issue. These days he is still not a huge eater...but we are seeing huge strides. Today he ate 4 chicken minis for breakfast (did anyone else get the coupon for free breakfast today?), 2 eggs for lunch, the other day he ate a good amount of steak, he will eat green beans...not huge for the average 3 year old...but its something we are so thankful for.
7. We are big bottled water drinkers. I cannot stand when they are left lying around half full. I usually gather them and drink them all before I put them in the recycle bin. The other day I took a big drink out of one and told Tony..."this water smells like a dead animal." Then I looked at it closer and saw half of a chewed up pork chop floating around at the bottom along with some green beans. I am assumin g this was one of the boys water bottles. I knew we had not had pork chops in several days. Nice. I gagged.
8.The boys made the mistake a couple of weeks ago of showing me they know how to clean...not just wipe dust, I mean put things back in the exact right place, wipe baseboards, use the dust buster on the wood floors, etc (they are their father's sons)...Now they are daily workers. The other day I told them it was time for our cleaning to begin and Benjamin said, "I can't do this anymore, every day I clean, and the next day the house is dirty again. I am tired." It was a great time for a quick lesson on how to love and appreciate their mom.
9. The other day I got the boys the movie Aristicats to watch...telling them, "this was one of mom's favorite movies when she was little." I left to go fold laundry in the other room. When I walked back in they had turned it off. I asked what happened and Benjamin said, "we really are not cat people." Payton shook his head with a look of disgust...like I said, they are their father's sons.
10. The other day at lunch Tony asked who wants to pray for us and Benjamin raised his hand. As if we are were in a room with hundreds Payton said, "Look dad, a volunteer."
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Catching up...kind of
I have gotten several sweet emails asking if everything is ok because I have not posted in nearly a month...Thanks for noticing:) We are doing well.
* Thanks to everyone who commented and made us feel even more excited about our upcoming baby. Your excitement blessed us. We can hardly wait...only 26 more weeks!:)
* 2 of the past 4 weeks our family spent fighting the flu...all 4 of us...fever, upset stomachs, the whole bit. Tony missed 5 days of work...which never happens. Benjamin won the who is the sickest contest when his fever spiked at 106.3. We were miserable. Thankfully, we are now germ free...this house has seen more purell than the average I assure you. We had our couches, carpets, everything we had touched professionally cleaned. We were so thankful to finally move on from that.
* During our sickness we watched more videos than ever and when Tony was home, more sports center than ever. We also started watching the Biggest Loser. As a result, now everytime we pull into Sonic Payton says, "NO sugar drinks for me...you know what that can do to your body." Those trainers have made an impact on him with their speeches. Benjamin likes to run like mad in circles around our house yelling "Last chance workout" Good times.
* Organization is not my best trait...It is one of Tony's. Recently, as we got in the car I realized Tony had loaded all the things I usually have to run back in for...my sunglasses, phone, wallet, etc...I told the boys, "I sure love your dad, let's go around the car and share the things we love most about him." Payton started with, "I love how dad works so hard and lets you spend all of his money."
* Benjamin is fascinated by the fact that there is a baby growing inside of me...He asks periodically if we can take it out and play with it "for just a little bit." I have explained to him that God is still working on this baby. The other day he responded with "Now God is in your tummy?"
* Speaking of baby...at this point we think we will most likely not find out what it is until birth...Tony goes back and forth on this...but last week said he would wait...which is a huge sacrifice for my planning ahead husband. We found out with Payton, did not with Benjamin...it was wonderful both ways. It will most likely be a sonogram/game time decision on whther we know who is coming before they actually get here or not.
* Some of you who are long time readers will remember 18 months ago we got a precious lab puppy. She has been a delight to our family...However, we have realized during this particular season of our lives we are not the best dog family. She is champion bred and made to hunt...Due to many family circumstances that has just not been a part of Tony's or her life this past year. Tony has been praying that a great family that he could feel good about her going to would come along...The Lord provided (and they happen to have a blog many of you read) I will let them out themselves. I know I will cry when we load Maggie up to leave, but I also know we are doing what is best for her. Stay tuned for Payton's take on this whole affair...He is ready to turn us in to the local police, church, whoever he can find to listen...He has quite the monologue he can deliver on giving ones dog away.
* I am speaking at a women's retreat this weekend that I am really excited about...The theme verse is Zechariah 9:16 "The Lord their God will save them on that day as the flock of his people. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown." I know it is the season we are in but working on these talk has brought lots of tears as I have thought about what it means to be one of His jewels...It has meant a lot to me to reflect on that.
Hopefully we will update with pictures soon...check back my faithful readers...next week there will be more to come! :)
* Thanks to everyone who commented and made us feel even more excited about our upcoming baby. Your excitement blessed us. We can hardly wait...only 26 more weeks!:)
* 2 of the past 4 weeks our family spent fighting the flu...all 4 of us...fever, upset stomachs, the whole bit. Tony missed 5 days of work...which never happens. Benjamin won the who is the sickest contest when his fever spiked at 106.3. We were miserable. Thankfully, we are now germ free...this house has seen more purell than the average I assure you. We had our couches, carpets, everything we had touched professionally cleaned. We were so thankful to finally move on from that.
* During our sickness we watched more videos than ever and when Tony was home, more sports center than ever. We also started watching the Biggest Loser. As a result, now everytime we pull into Sonic Payton says, "NO sugar drinks for me...you know what that can do to your body." Those trainers have made an impact on him with their speeches. Benjamin likes to run like mad in circles around our house yelling "Last chance workout" Good times.
* Organization is not my best trait...It is one of Tony's. Recently, as we got in the car I realized Tony had loaded all the things I usually have to run back in for...my sunglasses, phone, wallet, etc...I told the boys, "I sure love your dad, let's go around the car and share the things we love most about him." Payton started with, "I love how dad works so hard and lets you spend all of his money."
* Benjamin is fascinated by the fact that there is a baby growing inside of me...He asks periodically if we can take it out and play with it "for just a little bit." I have explained to him that God is still working on this baby. The other day he responded with "Now God is in your tummy?"
* Speaking of baby...at this point we think we will most likely not find out what it is until birth...Tony goes back and forth on this...but last week said he would wait...which is a huge sacrifice for my planning ahead husband. We found out with Payton, did not with Benjamin...it was wonderful both ways. It will most likely be a sonogram/game time decision on whther we know who is coming before they actually get here or not.
* Some of you who are long time readers will remember 18 months ago we got a precious lab puppy. She has been a delight to our family...However, we have realized during this particular season of our lives we are not the best dog family. She is champion bred and made to hunt...Due to many family circumstances that has just not been a part of Tony's or her life this past year. Tony has been praying that a great family that he could feel good about her going to would come along...The Lord provided (and they happen to have a blog many of you read) I will let them out themselves. I know I will cry when we load Maggie up to leave, but I also know we are doing what is best for her. Stay tuned for Payton's take on this whole affair...He is ready to turn us in to the local police, church, whoever he can find to listen...He has quite the monologue he can deliver on giving ones dog away.
* I am speaking at a women's retreat this weekend that I am really excited about...The theme verse is Zechariah 9:16 "The Lord their God will save them on that day as the flock of his people. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown." I know it is the season we are in but working on these talk has brought lots of tears as I have thought about what it means to be one of His jewels...It has meant a lot to me to reflect on that.
Hopefully we will update with pictures soon...check back my faithful readers...next week there will be more to come! :)
Thursday, January 24, 2008
A Big Week!
1. Payton lost his first tooth in the playscape at church. This brought on a huge wave of emotions to me...I mean, I have the actual day marked on a calendar when we got that tooth. How can he be growing so quickly?
2. He was so proud of that lost tooth while at church...Later after we got home I realized he still had not seen himself. I told him to come in the bathroom and smile at himself. He smiled huge and then said so matter of factly..."You have got to be kidding me. I look ridiculous."
3. Payton got a dollar under his pillow for his tooth. The next morning Benjamin was yelling "what is it? read it to me!" Payton said, "Just a second Benjamin, Wait...here it is...OK, This dollar says, I am a dollar, take me to the store and buy whatever it is you want. I will pay for it, because I am a dollar and that is my job."
4. After 3 years of going to the rodeo and watching Payton scream because it was way too loud, we started this year thinking of other options. My dad came up with the headphones you use when you go to a shooting range. They worked like a charm. Most enjoyable rodeo experience we have ever had! Here is Payton through the years at the rodeo...followed with a shot of this year!
5. Benjamin is a night owl. There is no way around it. He loves to stay up while the rest of us love to have the lights off by 9:30. This would not be a huge issue if he was not so loud...He will stay on his bed...He just stays on his bed while singing at the top of his lungs or having random conversations. Often this means I have to go back to his room and say yet again, "Benjamin, you have to sleep or at least whisper." Last night I got my all time favorite response. I walked into his room and took a deep breath to give my order and he whispered..."Just a minute mom...I am really praying hard for you and dad."
6.Last week as we were out running errands Payton said from the back seat..."Mom, did you know you are a lot bigger than your mom." Thinking this was an important time to teach Payton a life lesson. I began to explain him that what he meant was taller and that girls do not like being referred to as big...He needed to find a better word. His response, "Mom, its ok, your dad is still a lot bigger than you." realizing my point was lost, I chimed in, "So are my brothers." Payton said, "You have brothers?" I said, "Yes, you know that, Sam and Andy." To which he responded, "ANDY? ANDY is your brother. All these years I just thought he was a great friend!"
7. This week we celebrated Nika's Birthday. I have mentioned this before but Nika is one of my closest friends and has been since we were in the 5th grade. Our sophomore year in college Nika's lupus attacked her brain and the doctors told us she would not make it through the night. I mentioned the other day as I was introducing her to speak at Ladies class that it is a unique experience in life to tell someone your last goodbye and then get them back. The Lord gve me that opportunity with Nika. We celebrate her life every year. This year her incredible sister in law came up with a scavenger hunt for "A day of Nika's favorites". Throughout the day Nika was lead around by a tape player to different places where her favorite people were able to meet with her for 45 minute intervals. We also were each assigned to bring one of her favorite things. the boys and I were thrilled to be a stop in her day. We met her with her favorite Route 44 Vanilla Coke.As you can see, the boys enjoyed it as much as she
did. The boys each told her their favorite thing about her...It was a sweet time of me celebrating her and watching my boys do the same.
8. Benjamin insisits on wearing this red hat everywhere. I laugh because he reminds me of grandmother. Tony is ready for him to move on to a new color. I told Tony yesterday, if he saw how many people smile ear to ear when Benjamin walks by wearing this hat, he would want him to wear it for forever.
9. This weekend our niece B turns 4. I tell my mom all of the time she does not have one grandchild I could not gush over. We are crazy about every single one of them. This one steals our hearts everytime we are around her. Her love for life,
her articulate way of expressing herself...She and Payton give each other a run for their money...We love her wholeheatedly and celebrate her life daily...but especially this weekend! So thankful the Lord placed this precious individual in our family!10. Mark those calendars for August 19th...We have been told Baby Brooks #3 should arrive sometime around then. We are thrilled. The boys are excited and confident that the Lord has given them a brother. We have explained that there are other options...and that we would love a little girl...both of them just kind of smile and then say , "Oh sure, but we know its a boy". We would of course appreciate your prayers for this new little life. We stared at that sonogram for along time the other day watching that little heart beat and wondering who exactly the Lord has in there. We cannot wait to see.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Long lost blog...
1. I am afraid we have fallen into the post-Christmas "can't accomplish anything" rut over here. We had a wonderful Christmas, a great new year and we are tired. We are forging ahead hoping at some point we will be hit with a burst of energy and motivation. We will let you know when it happens.
2. Both the boys are very in to acting out different scenes from their imagination with their nerf swords. Yesterday Payton had Benjamin backed in to the corner and said, "Blackbeard, this is the end." Benjamin said, "No, I am a good guy and I like Jesus."
3. Payton was wondering the other day how he came to live in our family, I explained to him God chose him for our family, we were so thrilled, now out of all the boys in the world we would choose him, etc...Benjamin piped in and said "I remember being with God and he let me choose you mom." Payton yelled from the back seat, "Benjamin, you have never been to heaven." Which then caused Benjamin to throw his rescue hero at a high rate of speed at his brother while yelling, "I AM TALKING TO MOM." These boys bring such excitement and volume to our lives.
4. The other day I left the boys with a baby sitter. After I had come home and our sitter had left I asked the boys how things went. Payton said, "We really need to talk." He then proceeded to tell me that Benjamin had jumped off the arm of the couch which caused the babysitter to say "omg Benjamin do not do that again." Payton said, "At that point I told Benjamin, we will have to talk about this later."He then explained to me how he had to explain to the babysitter that "she could not use the Lord's name like that...unless you are praying...every time you call his name, his head turns, that's something we take seriously, etc...." I will say this about Payton...every talk he has ever received he has stored away and now awaits the opportunity to use it on someone else. We are currently working on the concept of it is not ok to lecture an adult.
5. Our children's ministry once again allowed the children of our church to shop for Christmas presents using their Bible bucks. On Christmas morning Payton ran right past all of his gifts and went straight to what he had bought for Tony, he yelled, "Dad, its Christmas morning you can finally see what I got for you." He was beside himself to give me an ornament he had picked out, when I opened it he said, "I knew when I saw it it was exactly what you had always wanted." He was right. I love how our Children's ministry is, in unique ways, encouraging our children to have a heart for giving. This is just one of their many ways...I am so thankful for each person that works so hard in that ministry
6. Our new church coffee shop and indoor playground has us hanging out at the church more than ever. One cold week we were there every day. So great that that is where we invite people to meet us now.
7. Benjamin is relentless in life...His zest to try everything at full speed makes all of us feel more alive. Yesterday as he tried to ride our Lab, with pockets filled to overflowing with milk bones all the while yelling, "Everybody join the parade." My heart smiled....certain moments I try to freeze forever in the pockets of my mind.
8. This semester our theme in Ladies Class is "Pursuing Holiness" based on 1 Peter 1:15,16 in the Message it reads: "So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that's coming when Jesus arrives. Don't lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn't know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God's life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, "I am holy; you be holy." As I have reflected on this verse its caused me to think daily on the things I would actually say I am pursuing...It's brought to light a lot of things I need to be intentional about in the coming year, and a lot of things I need to let go off.
9. We have been talking to Benjamin about how it is time to stop sucking his thumb. This has not gone well as everytime we start he begins to explain how he has somewhere to be and "this is not a good time for me." Stay tuned...I have to say in his defense...in every sonogram we had of the child he was sucking his thumb...He was doing it from the very beginning. It is going to be hard habit to break.
10. One of my dear friends reminded me the other day of a sign I used to have hanging up in my office that said, "Be kind, everyone you know is fighting a hard battle." (Plato) The older I get the more I realize how true it is. As we walk through earthly struggles, Tony and I are calling ourselves back to "Counting it all joy." I should not say calling ourselves back to it...I am not sure we have ever really been there, I should say we are trying to learn what that means, what that looks like for us. We know that whatever path the Lord has placed us on, we want to reflect Him while on it. I read this (by Max Lucado) the other day and cried...
"Here is what we want to know. We want to know how long God's love will endure...Does God really love us forever? Not just on Sunday when our shoes are shined and our hair is fixed. We want to know...how does God feel about me when I am a jerk? Not when I am peppy and positive and ready to tackle world hunger. Not then. I know how he feels about me then. Even I like me then.
I want to know how he feels about me when I snap at anything that moves, when my thoughts are gutter level, when my tongue sharp enough to slice a rock. How does He feel about me then?...
Can anything separate us from the love Christ has for us?
God answered our question before we asked it. So we'd see His answer, he lit the sky with a star. So we'd hear it, he filled the night with a choir; and so we would believe it, he did what no man had ever dreamed. He became flesh and dwelt amoung us.
He placed his hand on the should of humanity and said "You're something special.""
"In the Grip of Grace"
I have been looking for His reassurance a lot lately...I am seeing it...in the beauty around me, my wonderful husband, the friends He has blessed me with, my kids who make me laugh...I am once again training my eyes to recognize Him in my world, to hear His "you're something special" and share it with others.
2. Both the boys are very in to acting out different scenes from their imagination with their nerf swords. Yesterday Payton had Benjamin backed in to the corner and said, "Blackbeard, this is the end." Benjamin said, "No, I am a good guy and I like Jesus."
3. Payton was wondering the other day how he came to live in our family, I explained to him God chose him for our family, we were so thrilled, now out of all the boys in the world we would choose him, etc...Benjamin piped in and said "I remember being with God and he let me choose you mom." Payton yelled from the back seat, "Benjamin, you have never been to heaven." Which then caused Benjamin to throw his rescue hero at a high rate of speed at his brother while yelling, "I AM TALKING TO MOM." These boys bring such excitement and volume to our lives.
4. The other day I left the boys with a baby sitter. After I had come home and our sitter had left I asked the boys how things went. Payton said, "We really need to talk." He then proceeded to tell me that Benjamin had jumped off the arm of the couch which caused the babysitter to say "omg Benjamin do not do that again." Payton said, "At that point I told Benjamin, we will have to talk about this later."He then explained to me how he had to explain to the babysitter that "she could not use the Lord's name like that...unless you are praying...every time you call his name, his head turns, that's something we take seriously, etc...." I will say this about Payton...every talk he has ever received he has stored away and now awaits the opportunity to use it on someone else. We are currently working on the concept of it is not ok to lecture an adult.
5. Our children's ministry once again allowed the children of our church to shop for Christmas presents using their Bible bucks. On Christmas morning Payton ran right past all of his gifts and went straight to what he had bought for Tony, he yelled, "Dad, its Christmas morning you can finally see what I got for you." He was beside himself to give me an ornament he had picked out, when I opened it he said, "I knew when I saw it it was exactly what you had always wanted." He was right. I love how our Children's ministry is, in unique ways, encouraging our children to have a heart for giving. This is just one of their many ways...I am so thankful for each person that works so hard in that ministry
6. Our new church coffee shop and indoor playground has us hanging out at the church more than ever. One cold week we were there every day. So great that that is where we invite people to meet us now.
7. Benjamin is relentless in life...His zest to try everything at full speed makes all of us feel more alive. Yesterday as he tried to ride our Lab, with pockets filled to overflowing with milk bones all the while yelling, "Everybody join the parade." My heart smiled....certain moments I try to freeze forever in the pockets of my mind.
8. This semester our theme in Ladies Class is "Pursuing Holiness" based on 1 Peter 1:15,16 in the Message it reads: "So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that's coming when Jesus arrives. Don't lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn't know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God's life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, "I am holy; you be holy." As I have reflected on this verse its caused me to think daily on the things I would actually say I am pursuing...It's brought to light a lot of things I need to be intentional about in the coming year, and a lot of things I need to let go off.
9. We have been talking to Benjamin about how it is time to stop sucking his thumb. This has not gone well as everytime we start he begins to explain how he has somewhere to be and "this is not a good time for me." Stay tuned...I have to say in his defense...in every sonogram we had of the child he was sucking his thumb...He was doing it from the very beginning. It is going to be hard habit to break.
10. One of my dear friends reminded me the other day of a sign I used to have hanging up in my office that said, "Be kind, everyone you know is fighting a hard battle." (Plato) The older I get the more I realize how true it is. As we walk through earthly struggles, Tony and I are calling ourselves back to "Counting it all joy." I should not say calling ourselves back to it...I am not sure we have ever really been there, I should say we are trying to learn what that means, what that looks like for us. We know that whatever path the Lord has placed us on, we want to reflect Him while on it. I read this (by Max Lucado) the other day and cried...
"Here is what we want to know. We want to know how long God's love will endure...Does God really love us forever? Not just on Sunday when our shoes are shined and our hair is fixed. We want to know...how does God feel about me when I am a jerk? Not when I am peppy and positive and ready to tackle world hunger. Not then. I know how he feels about me then. Even I like me then.
I want to know how he feels about me when I snap at anything that moves, when my thoughts are gutter level, when my tongue sharp enough to slice a rock. How does He feel about me then?...
Can anything separate us from the love Christ has for us?
God answered our question before we asked it. So we'd see His answer, he lit the sky with a star. So we'd hear it, he filled the night with a choir; and so we would believe it, he did what no man had ever dreamed. He became flesh and dwelt amoung us.
He placed his hand on the should of humanity and said "You're something special.""
"In the Grip of Grace"
I have been looking for His reassurance a lot lately...I am seeing it...in the beauty around me, my wonderful husband, the friends He has blessed me with, my kids who make me laugh...I am once again training my eyes to recognize Him in my world, to hear His "you're something special" and share it with others.
Friday, December 21, 2007
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