Monday Meanderings

Life sure has taken us for a roller coaster these last few weeks. Everytime I think that we have a few weeks of slow pace, something new comes our way. I guess that's God's way of keeping us on our toes, and a reminder all the more that we have to rely on Him. I remember a few years back, that January and February seemed to be our "slow" months out of the year, where we could catch up on purging old files, and clothes in our closets. But I guess when you are homeschooling, running after a toddler, and keeping up with the activities of a 1st grader, that doesn't happen so much.

When the New Year came to, I had intentions of not making any New Year resolutions, but focusing on having a positive attitude. Overall, I think I have done pretty well. I have been knocked down a few times (perhaps a test from God?), but through people's encouragement and prayer, have been able to pick up my attitude and head in the right direction again. I seriously don't know how people can cope without God.

This past couple of months we have had a long visit from my parents, which was so enjoyable. It was especially joyous for me to see the bond between my kids and their Grandparents grow stronger. I love to watch them interact and am very thankful for such caring and loving parents. We have had our share of illnesses these last couple months, but were fortunately able to enjoy the moments in between. We've had snow days and opportunities to go sledding down our front yard. Kyra is enjoying the outdoors so much more than she used to, and in fact was kind of sad to see so much of the snow melt away the other day (fortunately we just had another storm and the ground is now white once again). Katie is making great strides in her efforts of learning the alphabet and how to write each letter. She really has very nice handwriting, and I'm sure she will do well in kindergarten. Andrew continues to get into more things, but mostly brings a smile to our face, although his recent bought of teething (4 teeth at once) had us at wits end. Thankfully he isn't pushing the kitchen chairs up to the countertop and turning on the coffee maker so much anymore (of course that's been replaced with toilet flushing). But he has started to say a few words now, which brings me some relief in my worries. His favorite word is "car", but he recently said "kookaburra" (odd, but I'll take it).

I still have hopes of documenting some of life's great memories in the near future, but for now will leave with a few pictures.

Attitude

We are quickly approaching the end of the year, and I keep looking at my long neglected blog, and wonder where all the time as gone. I remember a few months back thinking, I have only written a few dozen posts this past year...I better start knocking out some more if I am going to write as much as I did the previous year. I began this blog so I could capture some of the endearing things my children said, along with writing down some of our key memories so they wouldn't be forgotten in years to come. But, in the end, blogging or journaling has had to sit on the backburner for the time being. Sure, I'm sure I'll miss reading some of the memories I would have been able to capture in my writing, but in the end I know that I let go some of my motive to meet a "quota," and instead write when I feel compelled to do so (which just so happens not to have been the last few months!). I hate to let go of the blog for good, because I do have hopes to write in it more frequently some day, and do enjoy writing and reading documented moments of our family. But, for now I hope to remember that I spent that time trying new endeavors, spending time in the busyness of life, or just taking a break from a delighted hobby.

But, I digress. On to the purpose of my post. So much has happened this past year, and I was trying to recall some of our highlighted memories. I know I tend to be a pessimistic person, and often get caught up in the negativity of life...the "why me's," the feelings of inadequacy, and the worldly news. I even stumbled upon an entry I wrote about this very topic this time last year. I wanted to stop focusing on the negative things in my life and "Just Do It"...just do what I could with the gifts God gave me. And for the most part, I think I did a pretty good job. Sure, there were certain lulls through the year where I stumbled, and life got the better of me. But then I remembered my slogan for the year, or my husband gently nudged me in the right direction, or felt lifted up through prayer or friends. And thank goodness I have a faithful God or friends to lean on, but I realize I need more than just a slogan to follow for the year. I need the Bible engraved in my heart.

So, along with with consciously taking an effort to follow the "Just Do It" plan, I have decided to be guided by a certain Bible verse this year:

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Phillipians 4:8-9

Because, if I have the Bible engraved on my heart, then hopefully when life gets me down, this verse will be so close to my heart, that I will quickly be able to pull it out of the cobwebs of my soul. And I challenge you to do the same!! Maybe if you are not a New Year's resolution kind of person, you could find a verse that would challenge you and bring you closer to God.

Really, change for any of us is all about changing our attitude. Of course it's easy for me to say this right now, because I'm pondering on the subject. But, if I'm going to change my heart to reflect God's heart, I need to make a change in my attitude. And I know I certainly won't be perfect on this journey...but, hopefully with a little encouragement from this Bible verse, my year's previous slogan, and the softening of my heart through God, I can continue in the path of positivity. I'll leave with a favorite quote of mine from Chuck Swindoll that will hopefully be inspirational to you as well:

"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. It will make or break a company...a church...a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past...we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you...we are in charge of our Attitudes."

In Your Hands

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds, in Christ. -Phillipians 4:6-7

Dear Lord,

You know my heart.  You know I am a worrier.  I worry about my children growing up to know you.  I worry about what their lives will be like as teenagers.  I worry about their little self esteems and falls and spills they might make.  I worry about predators lurking around ready to prey on their innocent souls.  The list goes on and on.  But worrying never accomplished anything.  I am aware of that, and try daily to put their lives in your hands.  I am asking that you be especially with Andrew tomorrow as he heads to surgery.  I am trusting you with his care.  I am trusting that you watch over his surgeon and give him steady hands.  He is your child and I know you love him more than I can love him.  I trust that you will help me through the week and give me the patience and strength to care for him.  I pray that you give him a speedy recovery.  You are in control Lord, and I pray you help me surrender my heart and give us peace.  I put my son in Your hands. Thank you for your unfailing love.

Sarah

Just Do It

My brain is currently functioning on overload. You would think I would be worried about getting everything ready for Christmas, but I'm not. I don't have a single present wrapped, but that's just not on my mind right now. I have random thoughts that keep flying through my head and won't resolve themselves. So, if you have better things to do right now, I would stop reading, because this might take awhile.

Last evening I was extremely tired (in part because I have a 6 month old that still doesn't know how to sleep through the night and was up twice the previous night). So, my hubby told me to go to bed and he would give Andrew his last feeding. Wearily I obliged. So, at 9:30 p.m. I went to sleep. It would have been a great night of sleep, if it hadn't been for my 5 year old who woke up in the middle of the night because she was cold, after insisting on sleeping in a sleeping bag in the floor. It didn't take long to put her back in her bed, but after my 4 hours of sleep, my brain must have thought I had enough rested enough because I couldn't go back to bed for another 3 hours.

I lay awake thinking about friends...friends I no longer keep in contact with because of my lack of effort, friends I do try to keep contact with but for reasons unbeknown st to me don't seem to reciprocate my need for their deep companionship. If friendship, companionship, love, is so important than why do we continually mess it up? Why do I let jealousy, and selfishness get in my way to simply care for people? I get so wrapped up in myself, wondering why I didn't get invited to someones house, or why wasn't I the person they felt they could pour their heart out to, that I don't stop to think about what I can do to make someone else feel more loved. I could invite someone with little family for dinner, or send someone who is lonely a card.

I lay awake wondering about my low self esteem, and wonder what I can do to improve my image of myself, so as not to pass this trait on to my girls. I tell myself my new slogan for 2010 is going to be Just Do It! I need to stop whining about not being able to make fabulous meals, making creative projects, having a dust free house, or kids that are perfectly coiffed, and just do something...clean the kitchen sink, play play doh with my kids...do something I can do. I focus so much of my time worrying what other people might think about how I do things in my life. "Would you look at her, she picks up her baby too much...she let's her baby cry too much, she let's her kids watch too much TV, why can't she potty train her child? She spends too much money on junk food. She should really watch her weight." I realize how much time I spend focused on negativity, I just have trouble stopping. Whether people really think badly of me or not, it shouldn't matter. I know only God's view of me matters, I just have trouble remembering that.

I think I've babbled on long enough. There are many more thoughts I have of blogging....writing about things we are proud of all the time vs. what our life looks like in reality, New Year's resolutions, and how to raise our children knowing God. When it comes down to all the issues, I know the answer lies with God. God tells us to "put other's before our own needs." God tells us "we can do all things through Him who strengthens us." God tells us "we are children of Him." Deep down, I know what I have to do. I know I should take it to God in prayer, and read my bible more often. Of course now I'm just laying out more inadequacies...how I'm inadequate in my walk with God. When what I really need to do is stop focusing on what I should do and Just Do It!

Top Ten of the Year

Well, Christmas is quickly approaching, and I am getting closer to being done with my shopping but I'm not there yet. My plan was to get up this morning, take Kyra to her last day of school (and happens to be her Christmas party), and then finish my shopping. Nnnnn....wrong answer. Because this is Michigan, it is snowing too hard to go anywhere and school was cancelled. Normally, I would be okay with that, but Kyra was deeply disappointed that she was going to miss her school party. We had wrapped a gift for a gift exchange, made gift baggies for every student, and bought gifts for her teachers. Our entry way is filled with an entourage of goodies prepared for school, and now it will never happen! Needless to say we were both disappointed. And I still have to shop a few days before Christmas! Oh well, could be a lot worse. So, with the extra indoor time I thought it would be good to blog.

Last year I listed the top 10 things that happened in my life over the year, so I thought I would do the same. So, here goes....

10. Going to Florida in February and having a wonderful time escaping the cold winter land for a week. We had fabulous weather and during our stay visited the manatees, a wonderful aquarium, fed the ducks, and visited with some good friends. I can almost taste the weather right now.

9. Grandpa passing away. Although his death isn't exactly a highlight, it was nice to see so many family members we haven't seen in ages and get reaquainted with some cousins. Hopefully we can visit them in Georgia again before it's been too long.

8. Having a surprise party for my hub's father, who turned 70! It was a great party, and turned out better than expected. He was surprised and overwhelmed by the turnout of people. I think it was the first time I ever saw him speechless!

7. Going to Hessel, where for the first time since children, I really enjoyed being there. It was nice to see the kids play in the sand and water, run back and forth to "Grandma's cabin", and not have to worry about where they were.

6. Spending time with my family at the "cottage" up north. We had such a great time boating, tubing, playing games, chatting, and enjoying each other's laughter. I think we are definitely going to have to try making this a yearly event.

5. Having a 4oth anniversary party for my parents. It was another party success, and I was able to become closer to my sister in-law because of the almost 2 straight weeks we spent together. Seeing the joy on my parent's faces, talents in my siblings, and friends laughing at the party made it all worth while.

4. Spending more time at Lake Michigan. We spent more time this year going to the beach then we ever have before. Although both of my girls are not big water fans, they so enjoyed jumping in the waves, building sand creations, and having picnics. I just love watching their faces light up with laughter.

3. Going camping for the first time with kids. I was a little nervous about camping with Katie. Seeing as how she is still not out of her crib, I didn't know how well she would stay put in the tent, but she did just fine. We had lots of good food, nice cool weather, a wagon ride, and plenty of fresh air. It is a definite must for the years to come.

2. Seeing my college roommate, whom I haven't seen in years. My old roommate moved closer in the area, and visited for the weekend. It was fun seeing her and her family again, and I look forward to more mini trips in the near future.

1. And the top highlight of the year.....is finding out that we are pregnant again! We are very excited for the arrival of a new one. And although we still haven't told our kids of their new sibling to be, I'm sure they will be excited too. I am almost 13 weeks along, and am due June 30th! Hopefully that will give us enough time to get in somewhat of a schedule before the busy school year sets in again in the fall. I already had my first ultrasound yesterday, and the little peanut was already kicking around, sucking it's thumb, and hiccuping.

So there you have it. I'm sure I could think of many more than just 10 things that have made our year this past 2008. There have been ups and downs, but we recognize that God has blessed us deeply. I hope you have been too.

Look, Smell, Taste

This weekend we had the kick off to our Bible Study group. We were new to the group last year and only had a couple of meetings before the year ended, so I was anticipating spending an afternoon with the group to get to know them better. When asked if I had the weekend free, I said sure! Then there was a pause in the conversation. What are we going to do to kick off the year I asked. She said, "ahh, what do you think about going on a wine tour? Would you be offended?" Offended? Oh, goodness. Is that what the lull in the conversation was for? Now I knew I was in the right group. What a fun way to kick off the year! And before any of you who don't know me well get the wrong picture, I am in no way a lush, but do enjoy the occasional evening of relaxing with a glass of wine.

Anyway, we had simply a wonderful day. The weather was sunny and warm, the leaves were starting to fall, and the group was full of laughs. We went to a place called Fenn Valley Winery. I was surprised to find out that the tour was free. We took a wagon ride out into the vineyard, tasted several types of grapes they use to make various wine. I have to say though, there was so much information, I didn't retain a lot of what the guide discussed (or was that just the wine?) I'll just say, making wine is quite the process. The sulfides, oxidization, what it takes to get the acidity out...the list goes on. It was very interesting though and I would highly recommend it to anyone.

After we left the winery, we went to Crane Orchards for some of their homemade food. They have delicious food. I had the chili and apple butter bread. Hmmmm...tastes of fall. Then we bought a pie to go and ate it at one of the couple's home. We got to know the people in our group quite a bit better (I think the wine helped!), so I was very glad for the opportunity to spend the afternoon with them. I think we are going to enjoy the year becoming closer to couples in our church. And of course it's nice to know that we have some common interests (shiraz anyone)!

The terrible, no good, very good day

The hubs began the week by taking a class for a certain certification for work. That meant he would be gone from 5am to 10pm just about every day. And seeing as the girls and I are very blessed to see him every day, Kyra started going through a little withdrawal this week. Fortunately, he was able to do a double shift and take Friday off (yeah, a 3 day weekend in addition to the fact that the class was cancelled and he is done with that for the time being). Nevertheless we were looking forward to some good quality daddy time. Unfortunately that didn't happen. He ended up having to help his Dad with a project that has spilled over into 2 days of the 3 day weekend. To his defense, he has spent quite a bit of time with family lately and needed a break (not that this was really a break).

When I found out today that he had to spend part of the day helping his dad, and then later found out it was going to be more like the whole day....I pouted. Yep, I pouted like a little girl. I know, very adult of me. Maybe it was my attitude, but the day seemed to get worse and worse.

It started like this:
7:30am Got on the scale after eliminating desserts from my diet this week, and exercising 4 days this week only to not lose a single pound.
8:30 am Made healthy apple oatmeal muffins, ate one, and then the dog jumped on the counter and dropped them all over the floor.
9:30 am Tried to entertain two crabby girls who wanted to see their daddy or play outside, neither of which they could do because it has been raining cats and dogs.
10:30 am Realized one of the reasons Katie was cranky was because she had 102 degree fever.
11:30 am Took the laundry out of the wash only to find I had put a dark color in with the lights and had dyed half the load.
12:30 pm Found out the hubs wouldn't be back until close to midnight.
1:30 pm My recovering sciatica spasmed out again.
5:00 pm Made homemade pizza with a special request from Kyra to add no sausage. Then at 6pm neither of the girls felt like pizza and ate cereal instead while I ate pizza by myself (didn't feel like arguing with them).
6:30 pm Had a moment to fold laundry and thought about my day.

Then all of a sudden, God laid on my heart:
Sarah look how you've been blessed!
-You didn't GAIN weight this week
-You got to eat one of the muffins you made
-You have a warm home, that is dry, and shelter from the outside elements (unlike so many that have been displaced from their homes, families, and surroundings because of Hurricane Ike).
-Your daughter has a cold that will last a couple days, unlike so many families that have children in the hospital with cancer for months on end
-You have a husband that is normally home every day to talk to and share memories with. You have a friend and companion that is faithful and loves you very much
-You have two beautiful girls that normally try everything you give to them, and what's so bad about having a pizza to yourself!

I truly have been blessed. And when I think about so many people out there that are in crowded shelters waying out the storm and not knowing the condition of their home, I know that I have been blessed. I think of the general health of our family, when so many are deeply sick, and I know we are blessed. So, Lord thank you for putting my bad day in perspective.

Top Ten of the Summer

Well, summer (although still warm, with our scorching 90 some degrees out right now) is coming to an end. It seems that many fellow bloggers are getting back in routine mode and returning to that disciplined life style that is so imperative for the school year. Although Kyra hasn't begun school yet (and even when she does it will only be for 2 1/2 hours, 3 days a week), I am reluctantly accepting that summer is coming to an end and that I need to get my rear in gear and get my life in order. We have had such a wonderful summer, but bad habits have certainly set in. We have been eating ice cream almost every day, going to bed entirely too late (I don't think the girls ever went to bed before 9pm this whole summer), and staying in pj's till close to 10am on many days. So, while I have enjoyed the relaxed lifestyle, it is time to put it to bed and shape up. I want to get back to exercise, regular bed times, and a schedule of sorts (for cleaning, getting kids going on time, etc.) It's not going to be easy, but change is good, and I'm determined for it to happen.....tomorrow!

For now though, I would like to reflect on our top moments of summer.

1. Eating fresh veggies (corn being the best) from the garden
2. Relaxing at the beach with family/friends in the UP
3. Kyra catching her first fish
4. Vacationing with my family at the cottage
5. Eating at various ice cream shops in MI (my there are a ton)
6. Jumpin in the waves of Lake Michigan with my daughters
7. Picnics at the beach
8. Bike rides with the family
9. Party for my parent's 40th wedding anniversary
10. Bonfires at Tracie's house, with feet in the sand, and a wine glass in hand

We have truly been blessed to have had the opportunity to go on a couple of wonderful vacations, and be so close to so many wonderful beaches that the kids can enjoy. The girls have come to like the beach and lake more than ever. And the best part of summer has truly been to watch them laugh in the company of their little friends and cousins. It is a joy to watch them take in the essence of summer and love the gift of creation that God gave to us to enjoy.

Playing Catch Up

I've always been one of those people that thinks, if you haven't had the opportunity/time/desire to write in your blog, don't worry about it. There's no need to apologize to people or feel guilty for not writing a certain quota for the week, after all life happens! Yet, here I am looking at my blog and feeling compelled to write something because the page has been stuck on Katie's swollen eye for two weeks (just what every one wants to stare at)! Oh well, so much for living by your own advice.

Summer certainly has been going by quickly though, as I'm sure many of you can attest to. We've had our 8th anniversary, family vacation again, party planning, my sister visiting from South Korea to catch up with, children to keep up with (does the energy ever end?). The list goes on. I'm sure I'm not as busy as many, but we certainly haven't had ice cold tea in our hands, watching the sunset go down (well, maybe some of the time). And while I would have loved to write about some of the wonderful memories we have made, or cute comments said by kids in the past two weeks, I think the stories will have to wait another week or so, or just go unsaid and live in our brain bank for the time being. I hope you all are having as wonderful a summer as we have been having, or at least had time to enjoy the beautiful weather from time to time.

Summertime

See the shining sun.

See us play and run.

Summertime, oh, summertime,

We are having fun.
Watch us as we play.

We play and run all day.

Summertime, oh, summertime,

Please don’t run away.

~Author Unknown~

Spring Cleaning

Spring has finally arrived! The weather is finally warm, the flowers are blooming, the breeze is refreshing! You would think I would be spending every possible moment outside, after being inside for almost an entire season....but I'm not.

I should be going for a walk, enjoying the nature outdoors, but instead I'm furiously spraying cracks and crevices for carpenter ants (trying to get the nature outside of my home).

I should be weeding my garden in preparation for the flowers I'd like to plant, but instead I'm going through drawers of clothes...trying to find anything that might fit this growing weed of a daughter.

I should be playing tag with my kids in the fresh new blades of grass, but instead I am shopping for fabric for valances so I can hurry up and get it done before the summer comes full throttle.

I find myself pining to be outside, so I can enjoy the gift of renewal that God gave us, but am overwhelmed at how much there is to accomplish before you can actually enjoy the season. There is spring cleaning to be done. Suddenly the rays of sunshine reveal all the cobwebs, dust, and rain spots on windows that have been hiding in my home. There is dog po*op littered throughout the yard, that was once so conveniently covered by snow. There are growing kids that need new clothes before they can race around outside. And there are weeds, still covered in matted leaves that need to be pulled before new growth can shine through.

Perhaps this "spring cleaning" is a little like finding our way back to peace in God. We've felt the peace before, but somewhere along the lines have lost it, and want so badly to find our way back. But before we can feel that peace again, we have to clean. We have to clean our hearts, clean out the sin, the cobwebs, in order to find rest in Him. We have to clean out the anger, jealousy, hatred, and comparison in order to find room for Him to live in our heart. It can be a grueling process, but in order to find that peace, we need to clean.

One of my favorite songs illustrates this sentiment so well.... "Remember Surrender" by Sara Groves

Remember surrender

Remember the rest

Remember that weight lifting off of your chest

And realizing that it's not up to you and it never was

Remember surrender

Remember relief

Remember how tears rolled down both of your cheeks

As the warmth of a heavenly father came closing in

I want to do that again

Why can't I live there

And make my home

In sweet surrender

I want to do so much more than remember

Remember surrender

Remember the peace

Remember how soundly you fell fast asleep

In the face of your troubles your future still shone like the morning sun

Remember surrender

Remember that sound

Of all of those voices inside dying down

But one who speaks clearly of helping and healing you deep within

So go clean, and prepare for the rejuvenation of spring!

Spring Cleaning

March bustles in on windy feet

And sweeps my doorstep and my street.

She washes and cleans with pounding rains,

Scrubbing the earth of winter stains.

She shakes the grime from carpet green

Till naught but fresh new blades are seen.

Then, house in order, all neat as a pin,

She ushers gentle springtime in.

-Susan Reiner

Lost and Found

On Friday last week, I decided to take the girls to the mall for a little playing time at the Treehouse. We had a good time, got some wiggles out, and then left to make a quick deposit at the bank and head on home for naps. Unfortunately when I arrived at the drive through, I pulled open my purse only to notice my wallet missing! Oh the panic that sets in when you lose something so important. I immediately had a knot in my stomach. Where did I leave it? What if someone took it? What would the hubby say?

Needless to say, we headed back to the mall in an attempt to search for the wallet. I had all these thoughts racing through my head, as I tried to mentally retrace my steps. I went to customer service, they hadn't seen it. I went to the bathroom, it wasn't there. I turned the mini van upside down. It wasn't there. Meanwhile I had one girl getting cranky from her lack of nap and another asking tons of questions as to why we were going back to the mall. I had to calm myself down, so I wouldn't snap at them with their hundred questions. My only remaining thought was that I had left it on top of the car as I had unbuckled one of the girls (not a smooth move, but all together possible). I searched the sidelines of the road as I headed home...but nothing.

We came home and I felt complete despair. My heart continued to race, and all I could do was give myself little pep talks to keep it together. I put Katie to bed, stuck a video in for Kyra, and began to call all the companies of the credit cards I recalled having in my wallet. I just finished the last one, when my brother in-law called wondering what I was doing on the phone for so long. I felt like shouting, "I'm trying to avoid a situation of identity theft, so get off the phone!" But he quickly added..."You can get off the phone now, because someone found your wallet!" Really? It seems someone drove by, found a wallet in a ditch, and picked it up. He had been trying to contact me for the last 1/2 hour, but I was on the phone, so he contacted another person in the phone book with the same last name (my brother in-law!). Oh, what a relief!!

I picked up my wallet later on that evening from this gentleman's house. I offered him some money, but he refused. He said he lost his wallet once and had much of the same feeling. He saw it out of the corner of his eye as he was driving, and picked it up. He didn't want someone else to have the same feeling he did. He simply said to pay if forward someday.

I thought later on that evening of his kindness. In the world we live in today, we think the worst of people. We think someone would immediately max out the credit cards, ruin our credit, steal our money. And if we continue to think the worst of people, dwell on the evil of this world, we will become hopeless. Thank goodness, God is so much bigger than the sins and evils of this world. He gives us hope, even if it for a lost wallet!

When I Open My Eyes....

When I open my eyes I see two geese huddled together as if trying to stay warm from the lingering winter. They ruffle their feathers and nuzzle their beaks. I wonder if they are able to sense when spring will make it's grand entrance. I see the silhouette of a tree bending it's branches down into the frigid pond for a drink. It uses all it's strength to root itself in the soil that has been slowly slipping away from the continuous thaw and frost we have had over this past winter. I see the blades of grass covered in a silvery frost, and if I lean in close can almost hear the crackle as it tries to break free of it's grip. I see over 30 pine trees stand majestically around our house, as if they were soldiers guarding our dwelling from the dangers that lie beyond them. I see rows upon rows of fractured corn stalks, just waiting to be tilled, so as the soil can begin producing new growth. I hear the humming of cars and semis, as people begin their morning commute to work. About once every five minutes someone wanders off to the rumble strip. I imagine that they haven't had their morning coffee yet, and are sleepy eyed and worn as the week comes to an end. It makes me grin as I cradle my warm cup of coffee and smell the aroma it brings. It makes me grin that I am fortunate enough to take in this beautiful view, look out my window and watch as the morning unfolds. I am thankful that I can stay in my pj's, lean my head toward the window as the sun begins to pour it's rays through a tiny corner of our home, all while the kids are still tucked soundly in their bed. Yes, I am sure this will be a beautiful day. Nature seems to whisper it's radiance, as I quietly stand in the warmth of our home.

When I open my eyes, really open my eyes, I can embrace the beauty that God puts before me. And this all before 7:30 A.M and in my back yard! Just imagine if I had my eyes open all day!

One is Silver and the Other's Gold

Well, I made it. This is my 100th post! For many of you who have been blogging daily, or blogging for years, this may not seem like much, but deep in the depths of my brain I never thought I'd last this long. I am one of those people who has great ambitions to try something new and then I either- A. Don't follow through, or B. Don't finish what I start. So last summer as I began this journey to record my thoughts, pictures, reflections, I secretly didn't think it would last. But so many of you who have visited, read, and commented on my blog have truly been an inspiration to me. Your comments, of course, are not the reason I continue to blog. I already got melancholy once in the beginning of my blogging experience for not getting the "fan mail" I would have liked. However, staying true to the reason I began this blog (which was to focus on the positive things in my life, and make a record of the tidbits in my children's lives), I have grown to love writing, reflecting, and reading various blogs as well as read the many encouraging comments I have received (just icing on the cake!).

That being said, I decided to focus my 100th post on friendships. You remember the song, "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other's gold." I have been reminded of that so many times this past year. In the beginning of the summer I was going through a really tough time, which is why I thought writing out positive thoughts would help me refocus mentally of all the blessings I really have. And it has helped. However, a large portion of that help has come through friendships. I have a wonderful family, who listens to my joys and sorrows, and never turns me away. I have friends from college, who I feel will be good friends for the rest of my life. They may be far away, but I will always hold them close to my heart (you know who you are). They make me laugh, cry, and share a wealth of history that will forever bond us. Finally, I have NEW friends. I have made some friends through bible study this year, and then also blogging friends - some whom I've never even met. You all have had such encouraging things to say, that quite frankly has helped bring me closer to God. I have met some with such a strong faith, some with such a great sense of humor, creativity, and overall hearts full of compassion. You all have been such blessings in my life.

That brings me to my final point (sorry this has been a little long winded, but hang on you'll be glad you read to the end). It is imperative that we encourage each other and lift each other up. True friendships help our faith walk with Christ.

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing" -Thess 5:11

And I have been so blessed to have had many wonderful friendships that I can count on to help guide me in my walk with Christ. So I have decided to GIVEAWAY a $25 gift certificate to Panera Bread Company. Why, you ask to Panera? Well, one it is one of my favorite places to eat, and two it is a great place to meet with a friend and catch up on life. My only request is that if you win the gift certificate, you share with a friend (hubby, mom, friend, child, etc.) So, here's the details: just leave a comment explaining how you have been blessed by a particular friendship. Then, on Thursday morning around 7am I will randomly select a winner (I will probably print out the comments, cut them up, put them in a basket, and have my daughter chose one). I look forward to your stories!

Prayer Journal Recap

Okay, I know it has only been a few days, but the prayer journal I started is going really well. And wouldn't you know that some of the things I prayed about really coincided with my day. Here are a couple examples:

Friday morning I prayed that I would find my children a blessing at the current stage they are in. After feeling very rejuvenated, I got up, showered, and began my day. Wouldn't you know, the kids had something else in mind. They were grumpy from the get go. I tried my best to distract Katie from the grumpys (who clearly didn't want to be picked up, set down, or any of the above) by letting her know it was breakfast time. Unfortunately, no milk left for cereal (which is Katie's favorite), so I put some cereal in a bowl of yogurt. She shoved it to the floor, and cried "NO, NO, NO!" At this point, I was getting a little frustrated. But remembering my prayer, and blogging friend Earen's thought on power of positive words, I told the kids we were going to have a great day. Unfortunately, they didn't reiterate my thoughts. Oh well. Most of the day continued to go on like this (tantrum by Kyra at the grocery store for having to sit next to her sister in the grocery cart -and I mean loud screaming, fighting each other over a toy baby stroller, I mean the list goes on). Needless to say, maybe it wasn't a great day, but I didn't yell. I really think the morning's prayer helped. And I NEEDED to say that prayer that morning.

Second example comes to yesterday. Then I prayed that God would use my husband to work to the best of his abilities and keep him safe through the day. Fortunately he was kept safe, for he was a bit tired after staying up for the Super Bowl (he works in the line of construction, which if tired could lead to trouble). But then, he called around noon to say that they needed him to work some overtime (bonus for the fam, but I knew he was tired). He came home at 9pm tired from a long day, but he had worked hard and he was safe. That was almost a 14 hour day!

Now, I know neither of these examples are life changing, but they were small examples of the power of prayer. I can't wait to see the continuing impact that occurs through keeping up with this prayer journal.

February, the New January

Okay, remember all those New Year's resolutions that we were ready to try come the beginning of the year. Riiightt....well, I didn't exactly stick to mine. In fact, I didn't even make it a week!And kudos to many of you who have stuck to yours. I have read many a blog that testifies of the organization, bible reading, and weight loss that you have kept up with in the New Year. I admire your ambition and persistance. Anyway, I have not been so ambitious. So much for losing weight in time for the hub's "Christmas" party (they always do their holiday party after the New Year - I think it's cheaper to rent a hall that way :). So much for getting organized during the long cold month. And so much for beginning to read the Bible in chronological order.

Now, I know what you are thinking, it's not too late! And you are right, it's not. In fact I have had so many inspirational sermon's/bible studies as of late that I want to continue to try my hardest to reach some of those goals. But I think I made too many to make them all obtainable. I have to remember baby steps help you achieve a goal. I also had a suggestion from a friend of mine in Bible Study. She suggested making a prayer journal. Now that really wasn't one of my goals, but I think keeping up with a prayer journal will help me keep some of my goals.

So, come Feb. 1 I am getting up in the morning, going for my morning jog (okay, more of a walk), and then start the day by being still in prayer. It's really a neat journal. She had me write 7 headlines (ex: forgiveness, praise, personal needs, national needs, ect.) and then each day, under those headlines, I pray for something different (ex: Monday-forgive/my anger, Praise/a song, Personal Needs/hubs health & safety, National Needs/president). That way, when I open my prayer journal, I know exactly what to pray for (and add urgent prayer needs beyond that). I'm excited and hopeful to begin my days in such a positive way. And if I stray, that's okay, because I can just pick up the next day and start anew.

Singing Praises

Yesterday, we had a sermon about giving praise to God. Now normally that wouldn't hit me that hard. God calls us to give Him praise, as well as we deem Him worthy of our praise. Yet, the pastor was saying that giving praise to God is something that WE need. Come again? Huh? Why would we need it? This is where I became deeper involved...

The scripture was based on Acts 16:16-25. It's a story of Paul and Silas, and how they were greeted by a slave girl and scorned for their efforts in saving people to become believers of God. They were seized, brought to the Romans, attacked, stripped, beaten, and thrown in prison. Then after they were put in their cell, they began to sing hymns to God. Wow, now I can imagine praying for mercy, but singing praises to God? How hard would that be after all that torture. I don't think I would have it in me. Yet the pastor asked us, "how often do we go to music for comfort in times of trial?" We probably do it more then we think. Singing "Amazing Grace," "Jesus Loves Me," "Then Sings My Soul," "Thy Lamp," can all be very therapeutic. They are reminders to us of how great God's love is for us. They help us in dark times see that God is not forsaking us. So the next time you are feeling down, in marital stress, or experience a death, try singing a song of praise. We need it.

The Best of 2007

Right now, there are several magazine's out with the best/worst dressed, events, books, etc. of 2007. It happens every year. It's a time to reflect on our mistakes and good memories, and an opportunity to glance through the past year with hopes to improve the future. Anyway, I thought I would take a look back to our family's past year and pick out the top 10 moments (starting from the beginning of the year to present).

#1 Katie turned 1 year old!

#2 After a grueling week of Katie being severly sick over her birthday, the doctor diagnosed her with Kowasacki Disease (you'd think that was a worst moment -which it just about was). But...because it was detected early, she was treated and now free of any danger. (Kowasacki Disease is a disease that attacks that arteries, which if left untreated can be fatal.)

#3 Kyra had her first snowmobile ride, and surprising loved it (she's not usually that adventurous). Maybe this is a sign for things to come!

#4 Together, my hubby and I lost over 20lbs each. It really helps when you try eating healthy together. We were a great team. Although, I hate to add that we also gained over 10lbs each back together too. I guess we are as good of an eating badly team as we are healthy :( The good thing is that we are still down over 10lbs (gotta look at the bright side).

#5 We bought a tube for the boat, and had the opportunity to try out our skills in water sports. Again, Kyra tried her hand at something new, and as long as we didn't punch it, did pretty well. What fun that was. I have a feeling we will be spending more time out on the water next year.

#6 The Hubby went water skiing for the first time, and didn't do too bad either!

#7 We had our 7th anniversary, and went to a wonderful little Italian Restaurant.

#8 Kyra turned 3, and became potty trained in the same week (thank the Lord!!) Now that really is a blessing.

#9 My Hubby turned 30, and to celebrate we went to Traverse City alone without the kiddos! It was a fabulous weekend filled with beautiful scenery, wine touring, and good dining.

#10 My husband unselfishly let me go to Georgia by myself to spend some good quality time with both extended sides of my family. All the while, he shot a 10 point buck the same weekend (one of his largest yet!) It was truly a great weekend and one we'll both probably remember for years to come.

All is Quiet

Can you believe that Christmas has come and gone! We spend months with a flurry of activity from what seems to be Halloween to Christmas. The months are filled with holiday festivities from dress up, to eating, to decorating, to shopping. The list goes on and on, and then suddenly it comes to a haulting stop (okay, maybe there's a New Year's Party in there, but other than that things drastically slow down). We have a long winter ahead with nothing but our creativity, some snow, and our imaginations (which of course can be a very good thing).

I asked my husband at the end of Christmas Day, if he had fun with his family. He said yes, but that it was all over too fast. I guess, I for one am looking forward to the rest and the slowness of the next few months (despite the cold weather), but I can see where it can be kind of a let down. You spend months of preparation for all these holidays, and then suddenly there are no projects at hand, no planned activities with the family.

I hope everyone takes advantage of these next few quiet months taking up a new hobby, reading a book they've been meaning to read, or start planning family gatherings outside of the holidays. These quiet months are an opportunity for us to catch up on the things we've been neglecting for the past few months, while it was too busy for us to do the "norm." I know none of my thoughts are new thoughts, after all that's why so many people make New Year resolutions (to take advantage of the next few months to do those things). I guess I was just thinking in the quietness of my house, after the flurry of activity, that I should take advantage of those "boring" months to stay in touch with people, play more with my children, organize a few things, read the Bible more, appreciate the stillness. I hope you do too.

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things...

1. Decorating the Tree. I always dread it at first, because it seems like such a daunting task, but as I get going I really get into it and love listening to Christmas music as I go. This year was especially exciting because Kyra helped put up the decorations and seemed to get more excited with every ornament. It is such a joy to see their face light up as they experience something new.
2. Looking at the tree. We only have one tree (at the moment anyway), but I could look at it every night with my cup of hot cocoa (something I only seem to have during this season). I am mezmerized every day with it's beauty.

3. Cookie Exchanges. What could be better than gathering with friends and eating a variety of cookies? It's really the best of both worlds. This year we had it at my house along with Cheddar Brocolli soup and sourdough bread. MMmmm.... warm comfort foods.

4. Listening to Christmas music. Sad to say, I am probably one of those annoying people that could listen to Christmas music every day beginning with the day after Thanksgiving (and to be honest, I could probably listen to it long after Christmas Day). Gotta love the radio stations that play it 24/7!

5. Decorating the house. Growing up, we never had lights on the house. I always secretly coveted the houses that were tastefully (that's key, because I don't care for gaudy) lit up with lights. I now have a wonderful hubby that is willing to face the brisk weather and climb on his ladder to put lights on the roof. It is done simply, but just enough to bring a smile to your face.

6. Snow on Christmas morning. I know this doesn't always happen, but I love fresh snow on Christmas morning. A perfect setting for a wonderful day.

7. Advent Calendar. This is a new favorite for me. I bought a simple advent calendar to count down the days till Christmas. I enjoy watching Kyra run to it first thing every morning to take down another day. ***Sarah-I tried taking your idea to talk about a family member a day, but Kyra's memory every day was that she liked to play toys with that person. Evidently her memory is not broad enough yet. Great idea though.****

8. Opening Christmas Stockings. This was always a favorite memory growing up. My parents always put creative things in our stockings (excluding the orange and apple!), and I almost enjoyed finding the stocking as well as all the other presents. This will be the first year I do it with our kids, so we'll see how it goes.

9. Gathering with Family. Last year we went to Florida for Christmas to spend the holiday with some friends. Although we had a great time, it felt quite awkward to spend it without family. I love my family very much and love even more watching it grow and watching the new generations play and laugh together. This year my family will be at our house over the holidays for 4 days, and I am counting down the days. I am thankful God has blessed me with such a wonderful family.

10. Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. I am not always faithful about reading my Bible or praying. But during this particular season I am thankful of all the reminders of God's love and His gentle nudge to love one another. The acts of kindness are always more evident around this season, which makes us see how important it is to love one another. I am thankful for such a forgiving, graceful, passionate, and loving God.