My seriously hot hubby recently married sweet friends of ours. It was such a blessed time--a stunning wedding. Who doesn't love a wonderful wedding?
We found the perfect wedding gift for our dear friends. A distressed sign with their last name and the date of their special day. Something they can keep forever. Perfect!
We chose this one...
Heather is amazingly gifted. I really was not sure what my order would turn out like. One of the downsides of ordering things online...you never quite know what you'll end up with.
My goodness--I was blown away when it arrived. It was absolutely stunning. A work of art.
I loved it so very much that I just have to bless one of you, my lovely blog readers, with your very own, personalized, distressed sign. (Are there too many commas in that sentence? I'm sure there are. I have this little thing with the comma--they usually end up in all the wrong places. Oh well. What--ever!)
It's the season to GIVE!
There are so many to choose from. The choice will be yours. You can choose your favorite color and add to it your favorite verse, last name, or whatever you feel like adding.
They make wonderful Christmas gifts, or just something special to make your own home feel a wee bit more home homey. A delightful little keepsake from me...to you.
Want one? Just leave any old comment and I'll put you in the drawing to win your personalized, distressed sign made by Heather.
So much fun.
And if you happen to be looking around for a fabulous gift for someone special, check out Heather's Etsy website. You will NOT be disappointed--I promise. It is such a blessing to be able to support each other in the things God gifts us to do.
Go ahead--leave a comment and I'll draw a winner on Friday.
PS: Is it homey or homely? There's a difference, right? I think I picked the right one. Ugh--that's it, I need to take some lessons in English. Help!
November 30, 2009
November 29, 2009
the REASON for the season
I can hardly believe that Christmas is just around the corner. As we put up our Christmas tree, my hubby said, "Didn't we just pack this away?" It sure does feel like it. So crazy.
As the season is once again upon us, I am constantly looking for ways to teach my kids that Christmas is not about the presents. Yes, it is wonderful to get new toys etc. But that is not why we celebrate it. It is so easy to say--but so difficult to get in their little hearts, isn't it?
As a family we try to find creative ways to get the truth about Christmas in their hearts. They are still young--but definitely not too young to get it. We want them to learn from a young age that the best Christmases were not about how big the toy was or how much money mom and dad spent on them.
We want the best memories our children have of Christmas to be about time spent as a family, remembering God's goodness, and giving back to those less fortunate than themselves.
I was thinking about my most wonderful Christmas memories as a child growing up in South Africa. They were always amazing--spent with lots of family. And, of course, leaving a beer on the table for Santa as a little pick-me-up. Forget the milk--who needs it anyway.
Obviously my family were not Christians at that stage of my life. They just did what every good South African did--spoil Father Christmas (which is what we call him) with an ice cold beer. He sure deserved it, don't you know.
But here I am with my own children, trying our darndest to teach them the true meaning of Christmas in the craziest, most OTT consumer society in the world.
Whew...it sure is hard.
We try to do lots of fun stuff with our kids at this time of year. We are so not tv watchers in our family. We prefer to choose DVD's that we approve of for our children to watch. But in December, we make even more of an effort to keep the television off. There is nothing worse than being bombarded by the constant commercials about the next latest and greatest gadgets we just have to have. The kids channels are even worse than the adult channels.
No thanks!
So as December approaches I'm on the hunt for great ways to impart the heart of Christmas to my children.
I thought it would be fun to share some of our family traditions with each other.
What does your family do to make this amazing season special for your family?
I'd love to hear your ideas. What family traditions does your family have? How do you teach your children about the true meaning of Christmas? What makes this time of year extra special for your family?
Who knows--maybe we cansteal borrow some fabulous ideas from each other.
Love you all, dear friends.
As the season is once again upon us, I am constantly looking for ways to teach my kids that Christmas is not about the presents. Yes, it is wonderful to get new toys etc. But that is not why we celebrate it. It is so easy to say--but so difficult to get in their little hearts, isn't it?
As a family we try to find creative ways to get the truth about Christmas in their hearts. They are still young--but definitely not too young to get it. We want them to learn from a young age that the best Christmases were not about how big the toy was or how much money mom and dad spent on them.
We want the best memories our children have of Christmas to be about time spent as a family, remembering God's goodness, and giving back to those less fortunate than themselves.
I was thinking about my most wonderful Christmas memories as a child growing up in South Africa. They were always amazing--spent with lots of family. And, of course, leaving a beer on the table for Santa as a little pick-me-up. Forget the milk--who needs it anyway.
Obviously my family were not Christians at that stage of my life. They just did what every good South African did--spoil Father Christmas (which is what we call him) with an ice cold beer. He sure deserved it, don't you know.
But here I am with my own children, trying our darndest to teach them the true meaning of Christmas in the craziest, most OTT consumer society in the world.
Whew...it sure is hard.
We try to do lots of fun stuff with our kids at this time of year. We are so not tv watchers in our family. We prefer to choose DVD's that we approve of for our children to watch. But in December, we make even more of an effort to keep the television off. There is nothing worse than being bombarded by the constant commercials about the next latest and greatest gadgets we just have to have. The kids channels are even worse than the adult channels.
No thanks!
So as December approaches I'm on the hunt for great ways to impart the heart of Christmas to my children.
I thought it would be fun to share some of our family traditions with each other.
What does your family do to make this amazing season special for your family?
I'd love to hear your ideas. What family traditions does your family have? How do you teach your children about the true meaning of Christmas? What makes this time of year extra special for your family?
Who knows--maybe we can
Love you all, dear friends.
November 28, 2009
infinite wealth
I am a rich woman. My wealth cannot be measured by worldly standards. My wealth seems strange to those who do not understand it. I have no fancy objects to show for it. I have nothing on paper that would indicate masses of acquired wealth.
My wealth is so different. So unique.
Every now and then, my soul needs reminding that I am, indeed, a very rich woman. When my flesh wants more, needs more, desires more, just has to have more...I need reminding again and again. How quickly I forget about my infinite wealth and where it truly lies.
The things of the world--they will never satisfy my heart. I know the truth--the things of this world will soon pass away. Before I know it, they will be gone. In a heartbeat. No matter how much earthly treasure I accumulate in my life, it will not matter on that day. When I stand before the Almighty, will He be pleased with my accumulated earthly wealth? I know not.
But oh my children. I look into their eyes and there I see my wealth. My true treasure. There I see riches that can never be taken away from me. I look at their faces and I know that I am a rich woman. They are treasures far greater than any earthly possession. They are my finest gold, my most sparkling silver, my shiniest jewels. They are His most perfect gift to me.
For where your treasure is, there will be your heart also. Matt 6:21
They are my treasures on this earth. How rich I am because He bestowed upon me the ultimate calling. Mother.
I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name. Isaiah 45:3
My wealth is so different. So unique.
Every now and then, my soul needs reminding that I am, indeed, a very rich woman. When my flesh wants more, needs more, desires more, just has to have more...I need reminding again and again. How quickly I forget about my infinite wealth and where it truly lies.
The things of the world--they will never satisfy my heart. I know the truth--the things of this world will soon pass away. Before I know it, they will be gone. In a heartbeat. No matter how much earthly treasure I accumulate in my life, it will not matter on that day. When I stand before the Almighty, will He be pleased with my accumulated earthly wealth? I know not.
But oh my children. I look into their eyes and there I see my wealth. My true treasure. There I see riches that can never be taken away from me. I look at their faces and I know that I am a rich woman. They are treasures far greater than any earthly possession. They are my finest gold, my most sparkling silver, my shiniest jewels. They are His most perfect gift to me.
For where your treasure is, there will be your heart also. Matt 6:21
They are my treasures on this earth. How rich I am because He bestowed upon me the ultimate calling. Mother.
I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name. Isaiah 45:3
November 26, 2009
(thanks)giving back
Our family has been blessed. No doubt about it. The Lord takes care of every single need we ever have. We are never ever without.
Today we are thankful. Thankful for so very much. Too much to mention.
On this Thanksgiving day, we decided it was time to give back--to those so much less fortunate than what we are.
We spent our day volunteering as a family at a local city hall. Feeding those who have nothing.
Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
Matt 25:34-36
It was such a joy to see each and every one of my children loving on people they never knew. They served for hours in any way they could.
Learning thankfulness!
We are so thankful for your amazing provision, and your many blessings, Lord Jesus. Thank you for the honor of giving back to others today. Being your hands and feet to a desperate world is just such a privilege. How we love you!
Today we are thankful. Thankful for so very much. Too much to mention.
On this Thanksgiving day, we decided it was time to give back--to those so much less fortunate than what we are.
We spent our day volunteering as a family at a local city hall. Feeding those who have nothing.
Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
Matt 25:34-36
It was such a joy to see each and every one of my children loving on people they never knew. They served for hours in any way they could.
Learning thankfulness!
We are so thankful for your amazing provision, and your many blessings, Lord Jesus. Thank you for the honor of giving back to others today. Being your hands and feet to a desperate world is just such a privilege. How we love you!
November 25, 2009
sweet home Colorado
We made it home safe and sound. It was so amazing to get away for a few days, but I do love coming home again. I'm just a homebody, I guess.
We played and played. The kids had the best time. Anthony and I got to hang out with the little people we love the most in this life and just enjoy every minute with them.
It's fun to stay at the YMCA. "Come on Dad, just take the picture--can't you see the dang sun's in our eyes?"
I had my first ever experience of seeing elk. A live one, that is--our neighbors are huge hunters and I do occasionally get to see a piece of an elk while they do whatever it is they do to it in their garage. Ugh--so NOT my thing. I'll stick to the live ones, thank you very much.
In our part of Colorado we only get little deer. There may be a few together--but never as many in a herd (that is what it's called, right?) as in this neck of the woods. They were absolutely everywhere. A hunters paradise I tell you. Run for your lives, sweet things!
My hubby's stunning photography.
It was so seriously cold. I mean like 17 degrees cold!
Packing for a four day vacation for seven people is an art. I'm convinced. As much as I plan and try to remember everything, there is always something that gets left behind. Looking at the pics of the kids--can you guess what I completely forgot to bring?
That would be our mother--on one of the coldest days of the year she decides it's a perfect picture moment. And we're freezing. All because she forgot to bring something you should never ever be without in Colorado!
Yep--I completely and utterly forgot to take coats! Who in the world even goes outside at the end of November in CO without a coat on? Well, as you can see--we do! When all else fails (and there is no Wal Mart in sight), you just have to layer (and layer and layer). We survived, but man alive, it was cold.
We are so thankful to the Lord for the gift of a little time away.
But now it's back to real life and all that brings. A house needs to be cleaned from top to bottom, a mountain of laundry awaits, many decisions need to be made, Thanksgiving is tomorrow, e-mails need to be returned, friends need to be called, fund raising for Hailee needs to get back into full swing, a dossier needs to be put together, kids closets need to be repacked and organized, a room needs to be painted, the yard needs to be cleaned, Christmas lights need to be hung....
Putting one foot in front of the other and following His lead.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thank you for sharing your hearts and your thoughts with us on raising boys. Wow! So many fabulous ideas and resources. We will absolutely look into them all. We're so thankful that so many of you took the time to share your wisdom and encouragement with us.
Did I tell you guys you're a blessing? Well, you are!
We played and played. The kids had the best time. Anthony and I got to hang out with the little people we love the most in this life and just enjoy every minute with them.
It's fun to stay at the YMCA. "Come on Dad, just take the picture--can't you see the dang sun's in our eyes?"
I had my first ever experience of seeing elk. A live one, that is--our neighbors are huge hunters and I do occasionally get to see a piece of an elk while they do whatever it is they do to it in their garage. Ugh--so NOT my thing. I'll stick to the live ones, thank you very much.
In our part of Colorado we only get little deer. There may be a few together--but never as many in a herd (that is what it's called, right?) as in this neck of the woods. They were absolutely everywhere. A hunters paradise I tell you. Run for your lives, sweet things!
My hubby's stunning photography.
It was so seriously cold. I mean like 17 degrees cold!
Packing for a four day vacation for seven people is an art. I'm convinced. As much as I plan and try to remember everything, there is always something that gets left behind. Looking at the pics of the kids--can you guess what I completely forgot to bring?
That would be our mother--on one of the coldest days of the year she decides it's a perfect picture moment. And we're freezing. All because she forgot to bring something you should never ever be without in Colorado!
Yep--I completely and utterly forgot to take coats! Who in the world even goes outside at the end of November in CO without a coat on? Well, as you can see--we do! When all else fails (and there is no Wal Mart in sight), you just have to layer (and layer and layer). We survived, but man alive, it was cold.
We are so thankful to the Lord for the gift of a little time away.
But now it's back to real life and all that brings. A house needs to be cleaned from top to bottom, a mountain of laundry awaits, many decisions need to be made, Thanksgiving is tomorrow, e-mails need to be returned, friends need to be called, fund raising for Hailee needs to get back into full swing, a dossier needs to be put together, kids closets need to be repacked and organized, a room needs to be painted, the yard needs to be cleaned, Christmas lights need to be hung....
Putting one foot in front of the other and following His lead.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thank you for sharing your hearts and your thoughts with us on raising boys. Wow! So many fabulous ideas and resources. We will absolutely look into them all. We're so thankful that so many of you took the time to share your wisdom and encouragement with us.
Did I tell you guys you're a blessing? Well, you are!
November 23, 2009
calling all moms of boys!
Life is never a bed of roses, is it? I know mine certainly is not. No way. This little blog of mine was never intended to be a place where I share only our sweet, happy times, but rather a place where I can be real and authentic. I cannot be any other way. Not here, and not in real life.
And so tonight I come to you, my blog friends, with a need. A need for resources. A need for shared hearts. A need for advice. A need for counsel.
Perhaps you can help.
Oh, the joys of parenting. I wonder if we ever perfect the art of being a great parent. Truthfully, we feel like we completely blow it at least ten times a day. At least. There are not many days that I can get into bed at the end of a day feeling like I did it all perfectly. I loved my kids well. I listened well. I did not raise my voice or show negative emotion once. Nope, those days are pretty much non-existent in my world.
There are just times we feel like we fail miserably. I don't know, maybe it's just us who feel that way. Or maybe you feel that way too?
We're definitely walking a new road these days. It's called having tweens, I believe. I just see it as a time of kids crossing over from that 'little kid' stage to being bigger(er) kids. Call it whatever you like. Whew, it sure can have its challenges. There are times when I so wish I had some kind of degree in child psychology or christian parenting to have more of an understanding about what we're dealing with. Lord have mercy--we have not even approached the teen years yet. My hubby was quick to remind me that we will have five teenagers at one time in the future. Thanks Honey--delightful thought!
So, coming back to the here and now. We are beginning to notice that boys and girls are seriously different. Okay, we've actually always known that, but what I mean is that raising them is so different.
Boys are, well, just boys. We all know that there is a time in a boys life when he crosses over from being tied to mommy's apron strings to being more of a 'man'. We're definitely at that stage. Our big boys are crossing over. And that's a good thing. But how in the world do we help them navigate the process?
The problem is that we are facing a few parenting hiccups as our sweet boys start maturing more. One son, in particular, is being very challenging, and we just don't know which way to turn for advice. Truthfully, we see characteristics in his personality that make us afraid for his future. We long to steer him in the right direction. We long to help him learn that having a great work ethic is crucial to being successful as a man. We long to see him being less sensitive about the small stuff. We don't want him to grow up being weak and unable to tackle the challenges life will throw his way. We don't want him to lie belly up when the storms of life blow his way. We long to see him rise up and become a strong man of God.
But how do we do that? Yes, we obviously know that prayer works, and we do that. But we are feeling like we need tools in our hands to equip us to raise Godly men. How desperately this world needs Godly men!
I told my hubby that I knew just the right group of people to ask for advice--you, my dear bloggy friends.
Those of you raising boys, or who have already raised boys...what are some of the best resources you have found to equip you to raise your sons? Have you read great books, or watched a fabulous DVD series? If you have, would you mind sharing them with us, please? If you have not found the perfect resources, perhaps you could share with us what has worked for your family as you have raised boys? We would absolutely appreciate you sharing your wisdom with us here. And I know for a fact that a few other moms reading along will glean from any knowledge you share. I love that we can all learn from each other.
Thanks for your help and advice. Please feel free to share any nugget of wisdom that has worked for your family as you have raised/or are raising your precious sons to be Godly men. It is such a joy to know that we never journey alone as parents--that there is always someone who has walked in our shoes and can share their journey with us.
Love you all.
And so tonight I come to you, my blog friends, with a need. A need for resources. A need for shared hearts. A need for advice. A need for counsel.
Perhaps you can help.
Oh, the joys of parenting. I wonder if we ever perfect the art of being a great parent. Truthfully, we feel like we completely blow it at least ten times a day. At least. There are not many days that I can get into bed at the end of a day feeling like I did it all perfectly. I loved my kids well. I listened well. I did not raise my voice or show negative emotion once. Nope, those days are pretty much non-existent in my world.
There are just times we feel like we fail miserably. I don't know, maybe it's just us who feel that way. Or maybe you feel that way too?
We're definitely walking a new road these days. It's called having tweens, I believe. I just see it as a time of kids crossing over from that 'little kid' stage to being bigger(er) kids. Call it whatever you like. Whew, it sure can have its challenges. There are times when I so wish I had some kind of degree in child psychology or christian parenting to have more of an understanding about what we're dealing with. Lord have mercy--we have not even approached the teen years yet. My hubby was quick to remind me that we will have five teenagers at one time in the future. Thanks Honey--delightful thought!
So, coming back to the here and now. We are beginning to notice that boys and girls are seriously different. Okay, we've actually always known that, but what I mean is that raising them is so different.
Boys are, well, just boys. We all know that there is a time in a boys life when he crosses over from being tied to mommy's apron strings to being more of a 'man'. We're definitely at that stage. Our big boys are crossing over. And that's a good thing. But how in the world do we help them navigate the process?
The problem is that we are facing a few parenting hiccups as our sweet boys start maturing more. One son, in particular, is being very challenging, and we just don't know which way to turn for advice. Truthfully, we see characteristics in his personality that make us afraid for his future. We long to steer him in the right direction. We long to help him learn that having a great work ethic is crucial to being successful as a man. We long to see him being less sensitive about the small stuff. We don't want him to grow up being weak and unable to tackle the challenges life will throw his way. We don't want him to lie belly up when the storms of life blow his way. We long to see him rise up and become a strong man of God.
But how do we do that? Yes, we obviously know that prayer works, and we do that. But we are feeling like we need tools in our hands to equip us to raise Godly men. How desperately this world needs Godly men!
I told my hubby that I knew just the right group of people to ask for advice--you, my dear bloggy friends.
Those of you raising boys, or who have already raised boys...what are some of the best resources you have found to equip you to raise your sons? Have you read great books, or watched a fabulous DVD series? If you have, would you mind sharing them with us, please? If you have not found the perfect resources, perhaps you could share with us what has worked for your family as you have raised boys? We would absolutely appreciate you sharing your wisdom with us here. And I know for a fact that a few other moms reading along will glean from any knowledge you share. I love that we can all learn from each other.
Thanks for your help and advice. Please feel free to share any nugget of wisdom that has worked for your family as you have raised/or are raising your precious sons to be Godly men. It is such a joy to know that we never journey alone as parents--that there is always someone who has walked in our shoes and can share their journey with us.
Love you all.
November 22, 2009
fear and divine confirmation
Oh how I LOVE the Lord. My soul delights in Him.
So, here we are in a gorgeous part of Colorado. Enjoying our much-needed family time away. Yes, I was well enough to make the little trip on Friday. I still feel icky--but not near as bad as last week. Ugh--did I tell you that I am so over this stomach thing? Well I am. Done with it.
Anyway.
We're having the best time. Not because the pace is any slower. How can it possibly be with five energetic kids? But just because we're together. Just being family. I love that so much. We have no place important to be, and no phones to answer. We can just do whatever we fancy at any given time.
Time to just be.
It was Friday night that I saw him. A very special young boy. As he walked toward us, my heart skipped a few beats. His face was just precious. His walk awkward. His arms uncooperative with the rest of his body. His parent's faces beamed with the love they had for their sweet son. Amazing.
As I looked at this boy, my heart started beating faster.
"Oh my Father...are you sure about this? Are you sure I too can handle a child with Down Syndrome?"
"I know our lives will never be the same again, Lord...can we even do this? What if we fail horribly?"
As I looked as this angelic boy, I'll be honest, fear rose in my heart. Fear of failure. Fear of not being able to parent Hailee well. Fear of not falling in love with her as I love my other children.
For a moment...fear gripped my heart.
Connor then turned to me, and as if he could read my thoughts said, "Mom, are you ready for this?"
"Yes, son, if this is what God has for us, we're ready for it." Yet inwardly I was really not sure how I felt about it at that given moment.
I went to bed that night with that dear boy on my heart and in my thoughts. "Are you sure, Father?"
Yesterday Anthony took the boys out for some Daddy time. When they returned, Connor came running to find me. He excitedly told me about something amazing that had happened.
While out, the boys had met a young woman. She had a Russian accent and when Anthony inquired about where she was from, she told him that she was from the same country as Hailee. Anthony told her about Hailee and our adoption. She then told him that she was from the exact same city as Hailee. She had lived there most of her life.
Oh my. The boys came and got me and of course I just had to meet Tatiana. She was so encouraging. She whipped out her laptop and showed us heaps of pictures of her city. She told us about her people, her food and gave us some excellent tips for travel.
Coincidence? How many people are there from the exact same city as Hailee in a tiny mountain town in Colorado?
Realistically...all of one.
No such thing as coincidence, friends. Everything passes through the hands of the Amighty God before it gets to us. Everything.
The God of the universe encouraged my heart like you will not believe. He brought a young woman from Hailee's city across our path just as a sweet confirmation that we are doing His will. All fear I had felt the night before was gone. Any doubt or insecurity, any questioning my ability to parent Hailee...gone!
He used a sweet young lady, and a Down Syndrome boy, to show me that He IS in the middle of our adoption, that we CAN parent a child with Down Syndrome, and that everything is going to be just fine.
My only concern is to pray and trust Him to lead and guide us as we work toward bringing Hailee home.
What an intentional God we serve. I love how He brings peace in troubled times. I love how He calms our thoughts when things seem confusing. I love How He purposefully brings people into our lives as a way of speaking to our hearts and bringing confirmation when we need it most.
How I love the Lord.
So, here we are in a gorgeous part of Colorado. Enjoying our much-needed family time away. Yes, I was well enough to make the little trip on Friday. I still feel icky--but not near as bad as last week. Ugh--did I tell you that I am so over this stomach thing? Well I am. Done with it.
Anyway.
We're having the best time. Not because the pace is any slower. How can it possibly be with five energetic kids? But just because we're together. Just being family. I love that so much. We have no place important to be, and no phones to answer. We can just do whatever we fancy at any given time.
Time to just be.
It was Friday night that I saw him. A very special young boy. As he walked toward us, my heart skipped a few beats. His face was just precious. His walk awkward. His arms uncooperative with the rest of his body. His parent's faces beamed with the love they had for their sweet son. Amazing.
As I looked at this boy, my heart started beating faster.
"Oh my Father...are you sure about this? Are you sure I too can handle a child with Down Syndrome?"
"I know our lives will never be the same again, Lord...can we even do this? What if we fail horribly?"
As I looked as this angelic boy, I'll be honest, fear rose in my heart. Fear of failure. Fear of not being able to parent Hailee well. Fear of not falling in love with her as I love my other children.
For a moment...fear gripped my heart.
Connor then turned to me, and as if he could read my thoughts said, "Mom, are you ready for this?"
"Yes, son, if this is what God has for us, we're ready for it." Yet inwardly I was really not sure how I felt about it at that given moment.
I went to bed that night with that dear boy on my heart and in my thoughts. "Are you sure, Father?"
Yesterday Anthony took the boys out for some Daddy time. When they returned, Connor came running to find me. He excitedly told me about something amazing that had happened.
While out, the boys had met a young woman. She had a Russian accent and when Anthony inquired about where she was from, she told him that she was from the same country as Hailee. Anthony told her about Hailee and our adoption. She then told him that she was from the exact same city as Hailee. She had lived there most of her life.
Oh my. The boys came and got me and of course I just had to meet Tatiana. She was so encouraging. She whipped out her laptop and showed us heaps of pictures of her city. She told us about her people, her food and gave us some excellent tips for travel.
Coincidence? How many people are there from the exact same city as Hailee in a tiny mountain town in Colorado?
Realistically...all of one.
No such thing as coincidence, friends. Everything passes through the hands of the Amighty God before it gets to us. Everything.
The God of the universe encouraged my heart like you will not believe. He brought a young woman from Hailee's city across our path just as a sweet confirmation that we are doing His will. All fear I had felt the night before was gone. Any doubt or insecurity, any questioning my ability to parent Hailee...gone!
He used a sweet young lady, and a Down Syndrome boy, to show me that He IS in the middle of our adoption, that we CAN parent a child with Down Syndrome, and that everything is going to be just fine.
My only concern is to pray and trust Him to lead and guide us as we work toward bringing Hailee home.
What an intentional God we serve. I love how He brings peace in troubled times. I love how He calms our thoughts when things seem confusing. I love How He purposefully brings people into our lives as a way of speaking to our hearts and bringing confirmation when we need it most.
How I love the Lord.
November 19, 2009
delayed time away
Oh my goodness, thank you so very much for all the e-mails asking me for Tony's address. I just checked my inbox and was blown away. I have so many of you to respond to. I promise to do it just as soon as possible. I am running behind on everything.
You see, the last 36 hours I have spent, well, on the potty. So delightful. Remember the horrible stomach flu that swept through our family two weeks ago? The nasty thing got me again. I have been so sick with the awful thing. Thankfully, so far I am the only one in the family to get it again. We're praying it stays that way. I am one to rarely get anything that goes around. I have no idea what happened this time. No fun at all.
We were actually meant to head out on a little family getaway today. Time away from home, a much-needed change of scenery, time to catch up with good friends. Obviously that did not happen. I just could not do it today.
Tomorrow we will try again. This will be our first family getaway in almost three years. Terrible, I know. Our kids are obviously super excited and are dying to just get in the car and go. Hopefully tomorrow. Please God.
We need the time away. Life has been crazy, as I know it has been for many of you. Like many others, we have been hit hard by a fragile economy. We have been forced to make some big changes around here. We are still facing some tough decisions. We choose to count our blessings--we know there are many facing far tougher situations than us. Many mountains before us feel almost insurmountable. We know they're not. Only because we know the ONE who holds our lives in His hands. They just feel that way. We know God is more than able to take care of every single need that we [and you] have. Stretching times cause us to dig deeper in our faith. Trying times force us to keep our eyes on the Almighty. And that, my dear friends, is a good thing.
And so we're really trusting we can escape for a while tomorrow. Just for a few days. It is so overdue for our family. We're ready for a change. Just a little bit of time out.
Thanks again for your willingness to hep with a blessing for Tony in Iraq--I know he is going to be blown away when all our cards and well wishes start rolling in. Don't you just love being a blessing to others? So much fun.
Love you all.
You see, the last 36 hours I have spent, well, on the potty. So delightful. Remember the horrible stomach flu that swept through our family two weeks ago? The nasty thing got me again. I have been so sick with the awful thing. Thankfully, so far I am the only one in the family to get it again. We're praying it stays that way. I am one to rarely get anything that goes around. I have no idea what happened this time. No fun at all.
We were actually meant to head out on a little family getaway today. Time away from home, a much-needed change of scenery, time to catch up with good friends. Obviously that did not happen. I just could not do it today.
Tomorrow we will try again. This will be our first family getaway in almost three years. Terrible, I know. Our kids are obviously super excited and are dying to just get in the car and go. Hopefully tomorrow. Please God.
We need the time away. Life has been crazy, as I know it has been for many of you. Like many others, we have been hit hard by a fragile economy. We have been forced to make some big changes around here. We are still facing some tough decisions. We choose to count our blessings--we know there are many facing far tougher situations than us. Many mountains before us feel almost insurmountable. We know they're not. Only because we know the ONE who holds our lives in His hands. They just feel that way. We know God is more than able to take care of every single need that we [and you] have. Stretching times cause us to dig deeper in our faith. Trying times force us to keep our eyes on the Almighty. And that, my dear friends, is a good thing.
And so we're really trusting we can escape for a while tomorrow. Just for a few days. It is so overdue for our family. We're ready for a change. Just a little bit of time out.
Thanks again for your willingness to hep with a blessing for Tony in Iraq--I know he is going to be blown away when all our cards and well wishes start rolling in. Don't you just love being a blessing to others? So much fun.
Love you all.
November 17, 2009
learning thankfulness
UPDATE:
Sorry, friends, I made a mistake with the e-mail address. You can e-mail me at [email protected] for Tony's address in Iraq.
Thank you for ALL the e-mails I have already received. You guys have the best hearts ever. Thank you for helping out.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As we raise our children, one of the most important things we try to impart to them is a heart of thankfulness. To God, to their parents, and to people around them.
With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it is such an amazing time of year to remind our children that we need to be thankful. That it is a time of Thanksgiving, not Thanksreceiving.
Last week my sweet bloggy friend, Holly, e-mailed me and asked whether we would be interested in sending a birthday card to her dear hubby, who is serving our country (yep, it's MY country too now) overseas.
What a wonderful opportunity for my children. Of course we'll do it, Holly! What a great teachable moment. Teaching them that being thankful for people is so much more important to God than beingobsessed thankful about stuff.
If you know Holly, you'll know that she is such an amazing woman of a mighty God. While her hubby serves our county overseas, she handles the home front. She does an amazing job. Holly's hubby insisted on no gifts this year (because he wants them put the money toward their next adoption), but still, she wants to be a blessing to him. So she called on a few friends and asked us to bless him with unexpected birthday cards and messages.
What a fabulous idea. We've always wanted to send a note of encouragement to someone serving on the front line, but never knew anyone. This was our chance.
Today I put my precious blessings to work.
They had so much fun.
Writing their own messages and drawing master creations.
Thanking a man who they do not know--but do know what he does. Even in their young minds, they know and understand the sacrifice.
In their own, sweet way, they thanked Tony from the bottom of their hearts.
Yes, indeed, a teachable moment for sure. People are so much more important than things!
This man misses his dear family more than my heart can ever comprehend. And how they miss him too. He has been gone a very long time, and still has a long time to serve overseas. I'm sure every day feels like a week when your heart is just longing to be home.
Would you and your family consider joining us in sending Tony a card of encouragement with a birthday message? Not only is he missing his family something awful, but he has just lost a very dear family member. So painful when you're so far away. Friends, just a simple card with a few handmade notes will encourage his heart so much. And I know Holly would appreciate it too.
If you would like to join us, please just e-mail me at [email protected] and I'll pass on Tony's address in Iraq to you.
Such a simple act of kindness that would mean so very much to an entire family. Please consider helping out.
Thank you, dear bloggy friends.
Sorry, friends, I made a mistake with the e-mail address. You can e-mail me at [email protected] for Tony's address in Iraq.
Thank you for ALL the e-mails I have already received. You guys have the best hearts ever. Thank you for helping out.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As we raise our children, one of the most important things we try to impart to them is a heart of thankfulness. To God, to their parents, and to people around them.
With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it is such an amazing time of year to remind our children that we need to be thankful. That it is a time of Thanksgiving, not Thanksreceiving.
Last week my sweet bloggy friend, Holly, e-mailed me and asked whether we would be interested in sending a birthday card to her dear hubby, who is serving our country (yep, it's MY country too now) overseas.
What a wonderful opportunity for my children. Of course we'll do it, Holly! What a great teachable moment. Teaching them that being thankful for people is so much more important to God than being
If you know Holly, you'll know that she is such an amazing woman of a mighty God. While her hubby serves our county overseas, she handles the home front. She does an amazing job. Holly's hubby insisted on no gifts this year (because he wants them put the money toward their next adoption), but still, she wants to be a blessing to him. So she called on a few friends and asked us to bless him with unexpected birthday cards and messages.
What a fabulous idea. We've always wanted to send a note of encouragement to someone serving on the front line, but never knew anyone. This was our chance.
Today I put my precious blessings to work.
They had so much fun.
Writing their own messages and drawing master creations.
Thanking a man who they do not know--but do know what he does. Even in their young minds, they know and understand the sacrifice.
In their own, sweet way, they thanked Tony from the bottom of their hearts.
Yes, indeed, a teachable moment for sure. People are so much more important than things!
This man misses his dear family more than my heart can ever comprehend. And how they miss him too. He has been gone a very long time, and still has a long time to serve overseas. I'm sure every day feels like a week when your heart is just longing to be home.
Would you and your family consider joining us in sending Tony a card of encouragement with a birthday message? Not only is he missing his family something awful, but he has just lost a very dear family member. So painful when you're so far away. Friends, just a simple card with a few handmade notes will encourage his heart so much. And I know Holly would appreciate it too.
If you would like to join us, please just e-mail me at [email protected] and I'll pass on Tony's address in Iraq to you.
Such a simple act of kindness that would mean so very much to an entire family. Please consider helping out.
Thank you, dear bloggy friends.
November 16, 2009
slow and steady
I'm feeling a little freaked out today.
For the last three months we were so totally focused on my becoming a US citizen. That was the only part of our adoption we really thought about. I had received the dossier requirements a while back, but only glanced over them. Too much paperwork overload, you know. I'm a simple kinda girl--just give me a wee bit of information at a time.
But the last three days have changed all that! Oh my. When we did our dossiers for China, I thought they were completely insane with their requirements. Nuts! But oh how I have changed my mind. China is mild compared to Hailee's country. These people are completely OTT! The thought of actually coming up with all these documents--which naturally have to have the t's crossed perfectly and the i's dotted in just the right place--well, it just freaks me out.
Having been down this road twice before, I do know it all comes together. It just, well, kinda freaks me out in the beginning. I am SO not a paperwork girl. Hubby handles it all. Every single bill and insurance document in our house, he does. I like it that way. I am clueless with stuff like that. I am seriously organized when it comes to my home, the things we need to do, meal planning and stuff like that. But paperwork? Forget it. I think I was last in line when the Lord handed out the 'administration gift'. That and anything to do with singing and dancing! Na-uh, not for me, thank you very much.
Oohh, I need to be careful what I write. You know the, "Lord, whatever you do, please don't send me to Africa," prayer? Just when you say there's no way you can do something, boom, the Lord has you do that very thing. Perhaps He'll turn me into a concert ballerina yet. Nothing is impossible for the Lord, you know. Except, maybe, this one thing.
Eeek!
I'm still trying to figure out how in the world I ended up being the one to put our dossiers together. Surely it's not too late to hand it over? Right, Honey?
I know I'll get less freaked out as I familiarize myself with the whole deal. You just kinda have to do it, right?
In the end, it will be so absolutely worth it, I know that with all my heart. It's all just part of the deal to bring our sweet children home from faraway places.
So I'll just continue to put one foot in front of the other and gather one piece of paperwork at a time. Slow and steady wins the race...isn't that the truth.
For the last three months we were so totally focused on my becoming a US citizen. That was the only part of our adoption we really thought about. I had received the dossier requirements a while back, but only glanced over them. Too much paperwork overload, you know. I'm a simple kinda girl--just give me a wee bit of information at a time.
But the last three days have changed all that! Oh my. When we did our dossiers for China, I thought they were completely insane with their requirements. Nuts! But oh how I have changed my mind. China is mild compared to Hailee's country. These people are completely OTT! The thought of actually coming up with all these documents--which naturally have to have the t's crossed perfectly and the i's dotted in just the right place--well, it just freaks me out.
Having been down this road twice before, I do know it all comes together. It just, well, kinda freaks me out in the beginning. I am SO not a paperwork girl. Hubby handles it all. Every single bill and insurance document in our house, he does. I like it that way. I am clueless with stuff like that. I am seriously organized when it comes to my home, the things we need to do, meal planning and stuff like that. But paperwork? Forget it. I think I was last in line when the Lord handed out the 'administration gift'. That and anything to do with singing and dancing! Na-uh, not for me, thank you very much.
Oohh, I need to be careful what I write. You know the, "Lord, whatever you do, please don't send me to Africa," prayer? Just when you say there's no way you can do something, boom, the Lord has you do that very thing. Perhaps He'll turn me into a concert ballerina yet. Nothing is impossible for the Lord, you know. Except, maybe, this one thing.
Eeek!
I'm still trying to figure out how in the world I ended up being the one to put our dossiers together. Surely it's not too late to hand it over? Right, Honey?
I know I'll get less freaked out as I familiarize myself with the whole deal. You just kinda have to do it, right?
In the end, it will be so absolutely worth it, I know that with all my heart. It's all just part of the deal to bring our sweet children home from faraway places.
So I'll just continue to put one foot in front of the other and gather one piece of paperwork at a time. Slow and steady wins the race...isn't that the truth.
November 13, 2009
and I'm proud to be...
AN AMERICAN!!!!!
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow! We are rejoicing and praising God for so many answered prayers today.
If you've journeyed with me here for a while, you'll know that the only way we can adopt Hailee is for me to become a US citizen (due to hubby being over the age limit). Three months ago we had a big decision to make. To go through the mission of becoming a citizen, or not. It would be costly, and would take time and effort. Or, we could just forget about it and trust the Lord that He would bring Hailee another family.
It would have been so easy to just forget about the whole idea of saving Hailee. I cannot tell you how many times I have done just that--taken the easy road, the easy way out in my life--most of those times have NOT been God's best for me.
"Do it!" was our answer from heaven. And so we did. We began the process to expedite my citizenship. The 'normal' process would take up to a year. We knew Hailee may not have that long. We also knew we could not do it alone, so we solicited help from an attorney and an amazing Congressman in our State.
We added to that a HUGE amount of faith!
Today, God came through for us in a big way. I sat in front of an Immigration Officer this morning not knowing what the day would bring. He looked at his computer and said, "So, I see this has been expedited so that you can adopt a little girl with Down Syndrome. Things have moved very quickly."
Yes, Mr Immigration guy, they sure have, ONLY because I serve a God of the impossible!
After the interview formalities, we came back later in the afternoon for the swearing in ceremony.
While we waited...we goofed around.
A future Mr President? You can even have my vote now, dear son.
While I took the oath....
So did Haven (or maybe that's actually a salute). Just to make absolutely positive she was an American forever. You can never take the oath too many times, you know.
You came to Africa to find me, Honey. But I came to American to become one of you.
What a blessed, amazingly victorious day. I got in the car as we were heading home and felt like we had just gained a lot of ground in Hailee's adoption. Finally now things can start to move forward as we begin the official paperwork to bring our precious daughter home. Our dossier needs to be put together in a rush, and Hailee's visa must be applied for like yesterday.
Oh, I know many of you may wonder--during the interview I did get asked for any other passports in my possession. I gave them to the man. He looked them over and gave them straight back to me. That was it! I really thought they would be stamped with some kind of stamp to say that I could no longer use them, or something. But nothing.
I guess that just makes me a South African-Australian-American. Or an American-South African-Australian?
Whatever.
Yes, dear friends--a God of the impossible--that's who I serve! In LESS than three months my citizenship has been granted.
How He loves, loves, loves Hailee.
Thank you to everyone single one of you who have stood with me in prayer, and support, as we journey to bring Hailee home. It means the absolute world to us.
Please, sweet Hailee, hang in there--your Mommy and Daddy got so much closer to you today! So much closer.
Finally we are all Americans.
You came to Africa to find me, Honey. But I came to American to become one of you.
What a blessed, amazingly victorious day. I got in the car as we were heading home and felt like we had just gained a lot of ground in Hailee's adoption. Finally now things can start to move forward as we begin the official paperwork to bring our precious daughter home. Our dossier needs to be put together in a rush, and Hailee's visa must be applied for like yesterday.
Oh, I know many of you may wonder--during the interview I did get asked for any other passports in my possession. I gave them to the man. He looked them over and gave them straight back to me. That was it! I really thought they would be stamped with some kind of stamp to say that I could no longer use them, or something. But nothing.
I guess that just makes me a South African-Australian-American. Or an American-South African-Australian?
Whatever.
Yes, dear friends--a God of the impossible--that's who I serve! In LESS than three months my citizenship has been granted.
How He loves, loves, loves Hailee.
Thank you to everyone single one of you who have stood with me in prayer, and support, as we journey to bring Hailee home. It means the absolute world to us.
Please, sweet Hailee, hang in there--your Mommy and Daddy got so much closer to you today! So much closer.
November 12, 2009
I'd love to hear your thoughts
As Anthony and I prepare to add our sixth child to our family, it has been a journey marked with highs and lows.
For many it seems like we're going just a wee bit too far this time. We get the usual, "Don't you have enough kids?" question all the time. From some, we have had nothing but support. From others...absolutely nothing. And that really is okay--after all, this is our journey and we don't expect everyone to understand it.
Truthfully, while I am learning to toughen up and roll with the punches, there are times when it all gets me down a little. It just hurts.
What this journey has certainly done for me is get me thinking a lot more about children, about adoption, about family, and about what God's heart is in the whole thing.
I am realizing more and more that children are serious business with the Lord.
The Bible is filled with scripture on all these things and I have been pondering them a lot recently. As I ponder, questions come to mind that I have been seeking God on.
Questions like...
God says, "Be fruitful and multiply". But how do you know when you're done with having children naturally?
There are many instances in the Bible where the Lord opened and closed women's wombs. Does that still apply to today? Or, is it just fine to take family planning into our own hands? Do we have a right to tell God how many children we want/desire if we are completely surrendered to Him?
Does complete surrender to the will of God mean we can 'control' the size of our families? Or, does it mean God controls it?
Is trusting God with your womb and the size of your family Old Testament stuff--not relevant for today?
What about adoption? Are we ALL called to adopt? Or not?
Is adoption only for those who feel they can 'handle' more children?
Does God call us to either have our children naturally, or both (meaning adoption too)?
What IS the role of the Church when it comes to caring for orphans? The Word says to care for them--but how? How should that look?
There is so much going on in my heart about these things. Some questions remain unanswered, while others I feel I am clearer on. By no means do I feel like I have arrived when it comes to understanding the heart of God on important issues like these. But, like many of you, I am really seeking. I don't want to miss Him.
I do know these are tough questions. But I WANT to know the answers to tough questions. I NEED to know. I'm just like that.
One thing I am sure of is this--in a society where children are increasingly considered a hindrance, a nuisance, hard work, too expensive, too time consuming--God is calling His people to see them as something different! God is calling His Church to see children as He sees them...blessings, NOT curses!
What are your thoughts? What are the convictions of your hearts regarding any of the above? Do you have any scripture to share?
I'd love to hear your thoughts. Would you mind sharing them with me? I am all for iron sharpening iron and the Body of Christ sharing their knowledge and journey's with each other--in the hope that we can all learn from each other. I only ask that all comments be posted in a spirit of love. That all opinions be shared in love. Okay?
How has the Lord spoken to your heart about any of the above?
For many it seems like we're going just a wee bit too far this time. We get the usual, "Don't you have enough kids?" question all the time. From some, we have had nothing but support. From others...absolutely nothing. And that really is okay--after all, this is our journey and we don't expect everyone to understand it.
Truthfully, while I am learning to toughen up and roll with the punches, there are times when it all gets me down a little. It just hurts.
What this journey has certainly done for me is get me thinking a lot more about children, about adoption, about family, and about what God's heart is in the whole thing.
I am realizing more and more that children are serious business with the Lord.
The Bible is filled with scripture on all these things and I have been pondering them a lot recently. As I ponder, questions come to mind that I have been seeking God on.
Questions like...
God says, "Be fruitful and multiply". But how do you know when you're done with having children naturally?
There are many instances in the Bible where the Lord opened and closed women's wombs. Does that still apply to today? Or, is it just fine to take family planning into our own hands? Do we have a right to tell God how many children we want/desire if we are completely surrendered to Him?
Does complete surrender to the will of God mean we can 'control' the size of our families? Or, does it mean God controls it?
Is trusting God with your womb and the size of your family Old Testament stuff--not relevant for today?
What about adoption? Are we ALL called to adopt? Or not?
Is adoption only for those who feel they can 'handle' more children?
Does God call us to either have our children naturally, or both (meaning adoption too)?
What IS the role of the Church when it comes to caring for orphans? The Word says to care for them--but how? How should that look?
There is so much going on in my heart about these things. Some questions remain unanswered, while others I feel I am clearer on. By no means do I feel like I have arrived when it comes to understanding the heart of God on important issues like these. But, like many of you, I am really seeking. I don't want to miss Him.
I do know these are tough questions. But I WANT to know the answers to tough questions. I NEED to know. I'm just like that.
One thing I am sure of is this--in a society where children are increasingly considered a hindrance, a nuisance, hard work, too expensive, too time consuming--God is calling His people to see them as something different! God is calling His Church to see children as He sees them...blessings, NOT curses!
What are your thoughts? What are the convictions of your hearts regarding any of the above? Do you have any scripture to share?
I'd love to hear your thoughts. Would you mind sharing them with me? I am all for iron sharpening iron and the Body of Christ sharing their knowledge and journey's with each other--in the hope that we can all learn from each other. I only ask that all comments be posted in a spirit of love. That all opinions be shared in love. Okay?
How has the Lord spoken to your heart about any of the above?
November 11, 2009
receiving His gifts
If you've read my blog for a while, you'll know that I am blessed with the most incredible husband. If I could describe him in just a few words it would be a man after God's own heart!
My man LOVES God. Oh how he loves Him.
Anthony's job is hard. Not many can do it. I certainly could not be a Hospice Chaplain. But he does it so well, with excellence. He gets so many people saved, which is what he lives to do. In addition to loving patients and their families, walking them through grief, counseling them, and just being who he is in Christ to them...he does many, many funerals.
A couple of months ago, during a funeral, Anthony jokingly mentioned to a family member that the guy had great boots. A few days later this family asked him to join them for lunch, which he did. They told him how thankful they were for all he had done for their mom while she was so ill. They proceeded to give him an envelope with a gift certificate inside.
Later I get this call from my dear hubby.
Anthony: "Um, honey, I got a gift certificate from one of my famlies."
Me: (Thinking a grocery or restuarant card, or something like that.) That's great, Hon. What's it for?
Anthony: "Boots!"
Me: (Thinking Target or Walmart--being the cheap skate that I am.)
Anthony: "Honey, the gift card is for $650!!! "
Me: "Holy cow--$650 for a pair of boots? Can you buy cheap ones and keep the change?"
(I told you I was cheap.)
Anthony: "No, it's a gift card for a boot store. The family knows the owner and told him to look out for me. I HAVE to use all the money on boots."
Okey dokey then.
Oh my word. $650? For boots?
So Anthony goes to buy his boots. He called me laughing. There were no boots for $650! He had to pay in an extra $50 to get the cheapest boots in the store. The average price of boots was in the thousands. Some as high as $12 000!
Seriously? People really pay that amount of money for shoes? That just amazes me.
Of course they had to be tailor-made to fit Anthony's feet (I should hope so at that price). He got them yesterday. These things come with a lifetime warranty. Any little scuff mark, worn out heel or wear and tear will be fixed. For free. Bonus.
I love how God spoils His children in ways we never dream or imagine.
Did Anthony ever imagine he would own such an expensive pair of shoes? Heck no. Even as an international model he never spent that kind of money on himself.
I know there are probably a hundred other things that he would rather have used the $700 for. But you know what? When God chooses to bless us with lavish gifts and beautiful surprises, we have to receive them. Our God is in the business of showering His children with His most glorious gifts--whether that be children, people in our lives, finances, possessions...or boots. They're all from the hand of our amazing Provider.
While we are absolutely NOT into material stuff, I am so thankful that God chose to bless the man in my life with a treat he never saw coming his way.
A wonderful gift for a faithful servant.
Who knew cowboy boots could cost as much as buying a car. Not me.
My man LOVES God. Oh how he loves Him.
Anthony's job is hard. Not many can do it. I certainly could not be a Hospice Chaplain. But he does it so well, with excellence. He gets so many people saved, which is what he lives to do. In addition to loving patients and their families, walking them through grief, counseling them, and just being who he is in Christ to them...he does many, many funerals.
A couple of months ago, during a funeral, Anthony jokingly mentioned to a family member that the guy had great boots. A few days later this family asked him to join them for lunch, which he did. They told him how thankful they were for all he had done for their mom while she was so ill. They proceeded to give him an envelope with a gift certificate inside.
Later I get this call from my dear hubby.
Anthony: "Um, honey, I got a gift certificate from one of my famlies."
Me: (Thinking a grocery or restuarant card, or something like that.) That's great, Hon. What's it for?
Anthony: "Boots!"
Me: (Thinking Target or Walmart--being the cheap skate that I am.)
Anthony: "Honey, the gift card is for $650!!! "
Me: "Holy cow--$650 for a pair of boots? Can you buy cheap ones and keep the change?"
(I told you I was cheap.)
Anthony: "No, it's a gift card for a boot store. The family knows the owner and told him to look out for me. I HAVE to use all the money on boots."
Okey dokey then.
Oh my word. $650? For boots?
So Anthony goes to buy his boots. He called me laughing. There were no boots for $650! He had to pay in an extra $50 to get the cheapest boots in the store. The average price of boots was in the thousands. Some as high as $12 000!
Seriously? People really pay that amount of money for shoes? That just amazes me.
Of course they had to be tailor-made to fit Anthony's feet (I should hope so at that price). He got them yesterday. These things come with a lifetime warranty. Any little scuff mark, worn out heel or wear and tear will be fixed. For free. Bonus.
I love how God spoils His children in ways we never dream or imagine.
Did Anthony ever imagine he would own such an expensive pair of shoes? Heck no. Even as an international model he never spent that kind of money on himself.
I know there are probably a hundred other things that he would rather have used the $700 for. But you know what? When God chooses to bless us with lavish gifts and beautiful surprises, we have to receive them. Our God is in the business of showering His children with His most glorious gifts--whether that be children, people in our lives, finances, possessions...or boots. They're all from the hand of our amazing Provider.
While we are absolutely NOT into material stuff, I am so thankful that God chose to bless the man in my life with a treat he never saw coming his way.
A wonderful gift for a faithful servant.
Who knew cowboy boots could cost as much as buying a car. Not me.
November 8, 2009
we lived to blog about it
Oh my gosh--we survived!
The awful stomach thing, that is.
I have no idea what is was, where it came from, or who invited it into my house, but that thing was seriously nasty. It kicked every single one of us in the bee-hind. I know there are a million things worse than having a house full of sick kids--but when you're up to your eyeballs in vomit, it sure doesn't feel like it.
The good news is the nasty stuff has left the building, and we are all feeling so much better. Praise God for better health.
Thank you for your prayers, sweet friends. How I pray this thing does not come near your homes!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We're looking forward to another crazy busy, very healthy week.
I finally have the last interview for my citizenship this coming Friday. A huge step forward in bringing Hailee home. Our Congressman's office says that Immigration may do the swearing in ceremony on Friday. Maybe...maybe not.
Oh, but wait...can we ever really be sure of what Immigration does and when they do it?
Many of you can testify to the fact that that would be a resounding NO!
So we take it as it comes.
If all goes well, by this Friday I could be an American. The note said, "Bring any other passports in your possession." I don't know what that means. I thought I would be allowed to have dual citizenship. But, I could be wrong. The thought of having to give up my South African citizenship makes me sad. I love my country. I adore it's people. It's who I am. I don't mind loosing my Australian citizenship. But South Africa--oh how I pray they'll let me keep it.
Bringing Hailee home is the most important thing in the world. It's the reason for us going to all the efforts we have to get my citizenship in a hurry. If I can only be one citizen, and my daughter's life depends on it--then an American I shall be.
Can't be that bad, hey?
Just kidding :)
Now all I have to do is learn the difference between Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, Franklin...and the fifty thousand other famous men in this country. Oh my.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In an attempt to get our immune systems up and our strength back, I've been filling my family up with wholesome nutrition.
One of our favorite things to eat is Mexican Stacks. My kids love them. They're filled with so much healthy stuff. Even for the pickiest eater, there are healthy things you can add to them. We try lots of different combinations. You can really get creative.
1 1/2 cups of brown rice (much healthier than white rice)
2 cans of black beans (season with cumin)
1 large can of refried beans
Bunch of green onions
3-4 diced tomatoes
2 green/red peppers (diced)
Black olives
Lettuce
Tortilla chips
Cheese
Sour cream
Salsa
Guacamole (make your own--it's so much healthier)
Smash a handful of tortilla chips.
Add a scoop of rice.
Add lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, onions.
Add a scoop of refried beans on top of veggies.
Add olives and cheese.
Add seasoned beans.
Add Guacamole.
Then add salsa.
Top it off with sour cream, if desired.
You can use all, or a combination of the above ingredients.
So easy, so healthy, and deliciously yummy.
Have fun making your very own stacky things.
The awful stomach thing, that is.
I have no idea what is was, where it came from, or who invited it into my house, but that thing was seriously nasty. It kicked every single one of us in the bee-hind. I know there are a million things worse than having a house full of sick kids--but when you're up to your eyeballs in vomit, it sure doesn't feel like it.
The good news is the nasty stuff has left the building, and we are all feeling so much better. Praise God for better health.
Thank you for your prayers, sweet friends. How I pray this thing does not come near your homes!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We're looking forward to another crazy busy, very healthy week.
I finally have the last interview for my citizenship this coming Friday. A huge step forward in bringing Hailee home. Our Congressman's office says that Immigration may do the swearing in ceremony on Friday. Maybe...maybe not.
Oh, but wait...can we ever really be sure of what Immigration does and when they do it?
Many of you can testify to the fact that that would be a resounding NO!
So we take it as it comes.
If all goes well, by this Friday I could be an American. The note said, "Bring any other passports in your possession." I don't know what that means. I thought I would be allowed to have dual citizenship. But, I could be wrong. The thought of having to give up my South African citizenship makes me sad. I love my country. I adore it's people. It's who I am. I don't mind loosing my Australian citizenship. But South Africa--oh how I pray they'll let me keep it.
Bringing Hailee home is the most important thing in the world. It's the reason for us going to all the efforts we have to get my citizenship in a hurry. If I can only be one citizen, and my daughter's life depends on it--then an American I shall be.
Can't be that bad, hey?
Just kidding :)
Now all I have to do is learn the difference between Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, Franklin...and the fifty thousand other famous men in this country. Oh my.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In an attempt to get our immune systems up and our strength back, I've been filling my family up with wholesome nutrition.
One of our favorite things to eat is Mexican Stacks. My kids love them. They're filled with so much healthy stuff. Even for the pickiest eater, there are healthy things you can add to them. We try lots of different combinations. You can really get creative.
1 1/2 cups of brown rice (much healthier than white rice)
2 cans of black beans (season with cumin)
1 large can of refried beans
Bunch of green onions
3-4 diced tomatoes
2 green/red peppers (diced)
Black olives
Lettuce
Tortilla chips
Cheese
Sour cream
Salsa
Guacamole (make your own--it's so much healthier)
Smash a handful of tortilla chips.
Add a scoop of rice.
Add lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, onions.
Add a scoop of refried beans on top of veggies.
Add olives and cheese.
Add seasoned beans.
Add Guacamole.
Then add salsa.
Top it off with sour cream, if desired.
You can use all, or a combination of the above ingredients.
So easy, so healthy, and deliciously yummy.
Have fun making your very own stacky things.
November 6, 2009
five down
We have the worst stomach virus ever sweeping it's way through our family. One by one the kids are getting it. Anthony and I felt horrible, but thankfully no vomiting like the kids have. Please Father, keep us healthy so that we can take care of sick little ones.
My poor babies are so ill. Today another one is not feeling well. They just feel miserable.
This is the first time since having kids that any virus has attacked our family like this.
No fun at all.
Praying your families are healthy and avoiding all the nasty stuff doing the rounds.
My poor babies are so ill. Today another one is not feeling well. They just feel miserable.
This is the first time since having kids that any virus has attacked our family like this.
No fun at all.
Praying your families are healthy and avoiding all the nasty stuff doing the rounds.
November 5, 2009
the nasty side of blogging
What in the world is going on?
Maybe I am just so naive, or just plain old dumb, but I really don't get what I see happening in the blog community. The Christian blog community, mind you.
There are a few blogs I just love to read. I try to be selective about what I read, and how much time I spend on the computer. Otherwise I'd be sitting here all day. Most of the blogs I read are on my sidebar. These are precious friends who encourage me, inspire me, and always point me toward Jesus. Such a blessing.
Then, there just a handful of other blogs that I check in on every now and then when I have a minute. Amazing woman who serve God and try their darndest to raise their families in the ways of the Father. Just like me, and all of us, they try.
Recently I have noticed that so many of these nice woman have come up against a lot of meanness! I mean sinful, horrible, backstabbing, foul, uncalled for and inexcusable comments. I see it happening more and more frequently.
Yesterday I read a blog where an appeal is being made for finances for her family. They are in a miserable situation and need help. A guest post was done by someone very prominent in the blogging community. I'm sure many of you read it. I felt like the appeal was done in love and with much grace. In the appeal, a heartfelt plea was made to 'please do not comment if you have anything negative to say'.
Like that worked!
I sat reading through some of the comments last night. I was absolutely horrified at the things I read. Women in their masses have gone out of their way to literally rip this family to pieces. What I was reading made me feel horrible. Most of these fine commenters, of course, claiming to be lovers of the same God I serve. What? They questioned every post she has posted, and everything she has stood for over the last several years. Everything! They were like a bunch of hungry piranhas on a feeding frenzy.
Needless to say, I left that blog with a sick feeling in my stomach.
It all feels so wrong to me. Is there something wrong with making appeals for things on blogs? Blogging is community. The reality of it is that some day we will all have some kind of need. It is humbling enough having to ask for funds to adopt a child--but to appeal for help when you're in a crisis situation. THAT takes courage. And then to find out that most of your readers have just been waiting for an opportunity to tear you to pieces. Oh my goodness gracious...so not right. My prayer for the 'piranhas' is that they never, ever, not once, ever find themselves in a similar situation where they actually have to ask for something.
I just don't get it, dear friends. I don't get mean people. I don't get why anyone would go to such lengths to try and hurt people (they don't even know personally) intentionally. What good does it do to post a negative comment on someone's blog? Is it rewarding? Does it feel good?
Now, I am all for people respectfully disagreeing in comments. I don't think any blogger expects all their readers to agree with their take on things. That's life. But there is a difference in being respectful versus outright meanness.
None of us are perfect. None of us claim to be! I have never read any Christian blog where the author has claimed to have life all figured out. All bloggers that I know are so open and so transparent with their lives. I hate the thought that someday, they too, may attract the meanies out there.
Having been involved in ministry over the years, all this reminds me so much of Church. How many cynical people there are sitting in church seats, lying in wait for the pastor to say one little thing they disagree with. Heaven help that dear pastor because without a doubt he will hear ALL about it.
Ugh.
We should ALL have the freedom to express ourselves and our needs--whether in person or through blogging. How sad that many bloggers feel the need to go private, or to moderate comments. What terrible times we live in when, even as Christians, we feel such trepidation at the thought of being vulnerable.
My heart doesn't get it, and neither does my head. One thing I always tell my children is, "If you don't have something kind to say, don't say it at all."
How I wish blog world could be that way too.
Maybe I am just so naive, or just plain old dumb, but I really don't get what I see happening in the blog community. The Christian blog community, mind you.
There are a few blogs I just love to read. I try to be selective about what I read, and how much time I spend on the computer. Otherwise I'd be sitting here all day. Most of the blogs I read are on my sidebar. These are precious friends who encourage me, inspire me, and always point me toward Jesus. Such a blessing.
Then, there just a handful of other blogs that I check in on every now and then when I have a minute. Amazing woman who serve God and try their darndest to raise their families in the ways of the Father. Just like me, and all of us, they try.
Recently I have noticed that so many of these nice woman have come up against a lot of meanness! I mean sinful, horrible, backstabbing, foul, uncalled for and inexcusable comments. I see it happening more and more frequently.
Yesterday I read a blog where an appeal is being made for finances for her family. They are in a miserable situation and need help. A guest post was done by someone very prominent in the blogging community. I'm sure many of you read it. I felt like the appeal was done in love and with much grace. In the appeal, a heartfelt plea was made to 'please do not comment if you have anything negative to say'.
Like that worked!
I sat reading through some of the comments last night. I was absolutely horrified at the things I read. Women in their masses have gone out of their way to literally rip this family to pieces. What I was reading made me feel horrible. Most of these fine commenters, of course, claiming to be lovers of the same God I serve. What? They questioned every post she has posted, and everything she has stood for over the last several years. Everything! They were like a bunch of hungry piranhas on a feeding frenzy.
Needless to say, I left that blog with a sick feeling in my stomach.
It all feels so wrong to me. Is there something wrong with making appeals for things on blogs? Blogging is community. The reality of it is that some day we will all have some kind of need. It is humbling enough having to ask for funds to adopt a child--but to appeal for help when you're in a crisis situation. THAT takes courage. And then to find out that most of your readers have just been waiting for an opportunity to tear you to pieces. Oh my goodness gracious...so not right. My prayer for the 'piranhas' is that they never, ever, not once, ever find themselves in a similar situation where they actually have to ask for something.
I just don't get it, dear friends. I don't get mean people. I don't get why anyone would go to such lengths to try and hurt people (they don't even know personally) intentionally. What good does it do to post a negative comment on someone's blog? Is it rewarding? Does it feel good?
Now, I am all for people respectfully disagreeing in comments. I don't think any blogger expects all their readers to agree with their take on things. That's life. But there is a difference in being respectful versus outright meanness.
None of us are perfect. None of us claim to be! I have never read any Christian blog where the author has claimed to have life all figured out. All bloggers that I know are so open and so transparent with their lives. I hate the thought that someday, they too, may attract the meanies out there.
Having been involved in ministry over the years, all this reminds me so much of Church. How many cynical people there are sitting in church seats, lying in wait for the pastor to say one little thing they disagree with. Heaven help that dear pastor because without a doubt he will hear ALL about it.
Ugh.
We should ALL have the freedom to express ourselves and our needs--whether in person or through blogging. How sad that many bloggers feel the need to go private, or to moderate comments. What terrible times we live in when, even as Christians, we feel such trepidation at the thought of being vulnerable.
My heart doesn't get it, and neither does my head. One thing I always tell my children is, "If you don't have something kind to say, don't say it at all."
How I wish blog world could be that way too.
November 3, 2009
preparing for rain
A story is told in the movie Facing the Giants about two farmers who lived in a drought stricken area. One farmer did nothing to prepare his land, while the other purposefully went out and planted his crops. Though there was no rain in sight--he prepared for rain.
The true story about the farmer in the movie Faith like Potatoes, is very similar.
There is such gold to be found in both those movies. They minister to our hearts in different ways every time we watch them. But never so much as recently.
When I started blogging a little over a year ago, I never really knew where I would go with this. I certainly do not see myself as a writer of any sorts. Heck, I almost flunked English at school. I never liked writing. But I do love sharing my heart on different things. Truthfully, I have no idea why in the world anyone would want to read about the things near and dear to me, but some of you keep coming back. That just amazes me, and blesses me.
Anyway.
I'm a pretty transparent kinda girl. I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve. If there's something bugging me--you'll probably know it. I have always desired for my little blog to be a place where I can be real, open and honest. And I have stuck to that. You've read about our trials, triumphs, and our passions. Life is never a bed of roses all the time, and I never want anyone to think that my life is always just perfectly dandy. Because it's not.
So, here I am, sharing my heart and being vulnerable. It can be a little intimidating on a public blog. But, it is the only way I know to be. I cannot be one person in real life, and another here. I believe God desires for us to be real in our good times, and our bad.
This is me being as real as I know how to be.
Sometimes life just makes no sense at all. I'm sure the farmers in the above story felt that way. They were Godly men, they trusted God with all their hearts. Just like many of us. So why no rain? Why would God allow them to face financial ruin? Why would He not rescue them sooner?
Whew!
I feel the same way right now. My family is walking a very, very hard road. It makes absolutely no sense in the natural. We're doing what the Father has told us to do. We strive to be obedient in all things. Yeah, sure we mess up more times than we can count. But we try to get things right. Still, we're dealing so many obstacles that seem like humongous mountains to climb. We're facing tough decisions that need to be made, and sometimes those just darn well hurt.
The road ahead looks like nothing but a parched land. I am beginning to understand what Habakkuk felt in his heart when he prayed...
And so, my friends, we're preparing for rain in this family. We know the rain will, eventually, come. And what a beautiful harvest it will be. In the meantime, we will continue to praise Him in this storm.
Love you all.
The true story about the farmer in the movie Faith like Potatoes, is very similar.
There is such gold to be found in both those movies. They minister to our hearts in different ways every time we watch them. But never so much as recently.
When I started blogging a little over a year ago, I never really knew where I would go with this. I certainly do not see myself as a writer of any sorts. Heck, I almost flunked English at school. I never liked writing. But I do love sharing my heart on different things. Truthfully, I have no idea why in the world anyone would want to read about the things near and dear to me, but some of you keep coming back. That just amazes me, and blesses me.
Anyway.
I'm a pretty transparent kinda girl. I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve. If there's something bugging me--you'll probably know it. I have always desired for my little blog to be a place where I can be real, open and honest. And I have stuck to that. You've read about our trials, triumphs, and our passions. Life is never a bed of roses all the time, and I never want anyone to think that my life is always just perfectly dandy. Because it's not.
So, here I am, sharing my heart and being vulnerable. It can be a little intimidating on a public blog. But, it is the only way I know to be. I cannot be one person in real life, and another here. I believe God desires for us to be real in our good times, and our bad.
This is me being as real as I know how to be.
Sometimes life just makes no sense at all. I'm sure the farmers in the above story felt that way. They were Godly men, they trusted God with all their hearts. Just like many of us. So why no rain? Why would God allow them to face financial ruin? Why would He not rescue them sooner?
Whew!
I feel the same way right now. My family is walking a very, very hard road. It makes absolutely no sense in the natural. We're doing what the Father has told us to do. We strive to be obedient in all things. Yeah, sure we mess up more times than we can count. But we try to get things right. Still, we're dealing so many obstacles that seem like humongous mountains to climb. We're facing tough decisions that need to be made, and sometimes those just darn well hurt.
The road ahead looks like nothing but a parched land. I am beginning to understand what Habakkuk felt in his heart when he prayed...
Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the field produces no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stores.....
Hab 3:17
Sometimes the things we see through our natural eyes make no sense. They confuse us and perhaps even cause us to spiral into a bottomless pit of despair. But God wants us to take our eyes off the things our human eyes see--He wants us to prepare for rain, whether we feel like it, or not. He longs for us to see things through eyes of faith.
Even though we don't see it, feel it or know when it's coming--He promises to send the rain. He promises us He'll take care of us. He promises to take care of our tired and weary souls. He promises rain from heaven to meet every single need we have. We just have to hold on tight and allow Him to steer our ship.
Even though we don't see it, feel it or know when it's coming--He promises to send the rain. He promises us He'll take care of us. He promises to take care of our tired and weary souls. He promises rain from heaven to meet every single need we have. We just have to hold on tight and allow Him to steer our ship.
And so my family is preparing for rain. We're choosing to not look at our circumstances--but to the ONE who controls them all. We're doing everything we can to prepare for the harvest God has in store for our family. We're being purposeful to prepare our land to receive the rain!
It is with confidence that I can claim the rest of what Habakkuk says...
YET...I will praise my God,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.
The Sovereign Lord is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to go on the high places.
Hab 3:18-19
This day I will choose to praise my God. I will choose to be joyful in God my Savior! I will choose to prepare for the rain--for it will come in due season.
Why has God allowed us to get to this point? Why has He allowed things to happen that are so out of our control? I don't know. But I do know that He trusts us to go through it. He trusts us to continue to remain so close to Him, where we can hear Him so clearly leading and guiding us. He wants us at the place where we can truly say, "Whatever, God! We are so abandoned to your will. Whether you choose to send the rain today, next month or next year, it is well with our souls. We will praise you whether we're in the valley, or on top of the highest mountain. You are our Father, and we trust you with everything that is within us!"
Love you all.
November 2, 2009
would you pray, please?
Could I ask you, my bloggy friends, to stand with us in prayer, please?
Today we got word that there has been a mass outbreak of the H1N1 virus in the Ukraine. Schools are closed. Businesses are closed. The country just does not have the resources to deal with such an epidemic.
Normally I would be fine with it. Trust God to protect those infected. Pray for healing etc. But, this is different. Too personal. And it's hard for me. Our beloved daughter is there!
We just don't see how she would survive if she got the disease. Any virus is nasty! Weighing only 15 pounds (at 4 and a half years old), her body is so frail and painfully weak. She cannot even sit on her own. She has an unrepaired hole in her heart. Her body is not functioning as it should. It is a miracle that she has even survived to this point in her little life. How could she possibly handle such a vicious virus? I don't know.
While I am certainly not one to panic about things like this, we're obviously deeply concerned. Even if Hailee were to get the regular flu, it could have horrible consequences.
We're trusting the Lord to put a hedge of protection around her crib--that NO VIRUS would come near her, in the name of Jesus.
If the Father brings Hailee to mind in the next few days and weeks, would you please pray for her? Would you trust with us that she would be completely protected?
My heart just cannot comprehend how many children are going to be affected by this awful virus in run-down orphanages. Precious little children are not going to be able to get proper medical help. Breaks my heart.
We appreciate your prayers so very much, dear friends. This is one of those times that I long, with all my heart, to go and get her the heck out of there.
But I can't.
And that just totally stinks.
Jesus, hold her near.
Today we got word that there has been a mass outbreak of the H1N1 virus in the Ukraine. Schools are closed. Businesses are closed. The country just does not have the resources to deal with such an epidemic.
Normally I would be fine with it. Trust God to protect those infected. Pray for healing etc. But, this is different. Too personal. And it's hard for me. Our beloved daughter is there!
We just don't see how she would survive if she got the disease. Any virus is nasty! Weighing only 15 pounds (at 4 and a half years old), her body is so frail and painfully weak. She cannot even sit on her own. She has an unrepaired hole in her heart. Her body is not functioning as it should. It is a miracle that she has even survived to this point in her little life. How could she possibly handle such a vicious virus? I don't know.
While I am certainly not one to panic about things like this, we're obviously deeply concerned. Even if Hailee were to get the regular flu, it could have horrible consequences.
We're trusting the Lord to put a hedge of protection around her crib--that NO VIRUS would come near her, in the name of Jesus.
If the Father brings Hailee to mind in the next few days and weeks, would you please pray for her? Would you trust with us that she would be completely protected?
My heart just cannot comprehend how many children are going to be affected by this awful virus in run-down orphanages. Precious little children are not going to be able to get proper medical help. Breaks my heart.
We appreciate your prayers so very much, dear friends. This is one of those times that I long, with all my heart, to go and get her the heck out of there.
But I can't.
And that just totally stinks.
Jesus, hold her near.
November 1, 2009
no greater reward
Children.
The more time I spend with my children, the more I realize that God does not call them rewards for no reason.
Children.
They somehow make everything seem okay.
They are a huggable reminder of God's love.
When the storms of life blow my way, their sweet smiles reassure me that everything is going to be just fine. In their eyes, I see His amazing love. It is with confidence that I can pray, "Mountains before us...be moved!"
A sweet embrace. One precious hug can light up my world and push any dark cloud away. Joy that bubbles over in the midst of challenging times. I KNOW my God is for me.
To hear sweet words whispered in my ears makes my load seem so much lighter. They remind me of why am here and what is important in my life. Perspective!
A tender touch. There can be nothing more special than the hug of a child. Each hug and act of love from these blessings in my life bring such peace to my heart. How they minister to me...without even knowing it. It is in their touch, that I feel His.
Oh how the Father loves to use our children to minister to us, their parents. They are such vessels of His amazing love. Such beautiful gifts.
When the trials come and the stormy seas feel like they will surely engulf me, I know that I can look into the eyes of each of these whom God has blessed me with, and know that everything is going to be just fine.
How blessed I am with these rewards. There is no greater reward I would rather have in this life!
The more time I spend with my children, the more I realize that God does not call them rewards for no reason.
Children.
They somehow make everything seem okay.
They are a huggable reminder of God's love.
When the storms of life blow my way, their sweet smiles reassure me that everything is going to be just fine. In their eyes, I see His amazing love. It is with confidence that I can pray, "Mountains before us...be moved!"
A sweet embrace. One precious hug can light up my world and push any dark cloud away. Joy that bubbles over in the midst of challenging times. I KNOW my God is for me.
To hear sweet words whispered in my ears makes my load seem so much lighter. They remind me of why am here and what is important in my life. Perspective!
A tender touch. There can be nothing more special than the hug of a child. Each hug and act of love from these blessings in my life bring such peace to my heart. How they minister to me...without even knowing it. It is in their touch, that I feel His.
Oh how the Father loves to use our children to minister to us, their parents. They are such vessels of His amazing love. Such beautiful gifts.
When the trials come and the stormy seas feel like they will surely engulf me, I know that I can look into the eyes of each of these whom God has blessed me with, and know that everything is going to be just fine.
How blessed I am with these rewards. There is no greater reward I would rather have in this life!
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