Lifesong

Adoption Heartbreak and God's Sovereignty Over My Life

2011-12-08T08:40:00.008-06:00

It is with a heavy heart that I type this and share with you that we have decided, after much prayer and many difficult conversations, to not proceed with our China adoption.

Hopefully I can explain the whys...

First of all, we recieved a call from our agency last week explaining to us what we needed to do to proceed with our adoption. They were contacting us now, because they were needing to let everyone with our log in date know what steps need to be taken because we are getting "closer". This means 8-12 months from a referral. Because the adoption is under new laws and regalations since we began, we would have to redo a lot of the paper work, do a new homestudy, file new fingerprints, and new medical tests. We knew we would have to update some things to continue, but we had no idea the true extent of money that would be needed to do the things we had already paid for to do early in the process.

When we began the adoption process, the wait was 12-18 months, which was great...then it started to get longer and was 2 years, which we were still fine with...but as the wait grew and grew over the years, we became unsure as to what to do. We looked into special needs, because that type of adoption moves more quickly. And even though there are many "special needs" that are not that severe, we were not sure that this would be God's plan for us. At the time of praying about this, my dad was suffering with Alzheimers and eventually passed away. My mother was his main caretaker and that was a difficult time for our family. We felt somewhat concerned with a special needs child at the time with the things going on that we needed to take care of first. So, we did not switch to special needs like so many other families did.

God gave us a desire to adopt...I am sure of that. Why? I do not know. I have thought through that a lot over the almost 6 years of waiting...maybe it was to encourage another family to adopt...maybe the whole process was to make us trust God more and see Him faithful, even in the face of disappointment....maybe it was to teach us patience...the list could go on and on of my guesses. What I do know and trust is that God is sovereign over every detail of my life. I can rejoice in that!

God is good, even in the face of deep disappointments. God's grace is sufficient for everything I will face in this life.

So, you may be thinking...why, if you are so much closer now, are you not going to go through with it?

It really comes down to the length of the wait and the extra money still needed to proceed.

So many things have changed since we began...we have one daughter in college, another who is a new driver, more expenses involved with both of those things. We have had some pretty major household things that have come up which have been a great costs to us. The idea of coming up with the money still needed would be extremely difficult at this point. Also, I am 43, but Mike is almost nine years older than me. Not that age is a major factor, but it is something to consider when adopting a baby. We have thought through so many different aspects of this. It has been a gradual decision for us and it seems that Mike and I have seen this coming.

It is a sad time for us. Even though I have known this was probably going to be our decision, it seems harder now that it is becoming official. I think about all of the work and excitement that went into completing our dossier...all the excitement over the thought of a new child to love, the excitement and joy of adopting a child from a country that has little knowledge of the gospel of Christ, and seeing how excited and expectant our children were over a new sister to love...it all comes back to me and it makes me sad.

But, I do trust that God had a plan in all of this. I want my dreams to be God's will for me, not just my desires.

God has been so kind to give us contentment in this. I can not explain it in human capabilities...because with as excited as we were to do this in the beginning, I never would have thought that I would or could give up on such a sweet dream of mine. My mind and heart was set on doing this and I could not wait to have my daughter in my arms. God's grace covers all of that---somehow. This is not me, but the Lord working in my heart. In my human selfishness, I would be kicking and screaming...not willing to let go. But, God in His kindness, has given Mike and I both a trust in His sovereignty through our disappointment. Blessed be the name of the Lord---He gives and takes away, still I will bless His name.

Running

2011-03-10T16:07:00.004-06:00

I was able, by God's grace, to run the Little Rock half marathon last Sunday with my injury still bothering me...but I finished! Yay! It was just a little slower than what I would like, but there is always next year! I had to run a slower pace because I didn't want to make my hip/muscle injury worse. It was so much fun! I loved being a part of something like that. Hopefully, I can get better and run it again next year...and hopefullly take about 15 minutes off my time! The race was just great! I ran through some streets with some old historic homes that were beautiful, by the State Capitol, by the governor's mansion, through downtown North Little Rock and Little Rock River Market area, and alongside the Arkansas river...it was WONDERFUL!

I went back to the doctor yesterday. The plan now is to rest for the month of March and start physical therapy at the end of the month. I am going to do that for 3-4weeks and see if I am any better. We are still not sure the actual diagnosis, but he thinks it is more than likely a muscle, tendon, or ligament strain from overuse. It feels like a pull/dull achy feeling in the lower abdomen/groin area...it gets better with rest and gets worse when I run. I am so ready to get better, but it is all in God's time. Hopefully after the physical therapy, I can start gradually running short distances again. I am hoping to ride my bike some, if the therapists thinks that will be okay. Mike and I love to ride our road bikes when the weather is nice.

Time and Thinking

2011-02-06T22:31:00.005-06:00

I am still alive and well. This has been a strange year for blogging for me. I have had plenty of wonderful things to write about...God has been so kind to continue to teach me and help me with all kinds of things, but finding the time to sit down and actually write about it has been challenging. I think a lot of it has to do with the ages of my younger 2 children. They are at ages that require lots of school time...plus lots of supervising time....lots of arts and crafts time...lots of reading on the couch time...and lots of just loving my kids time. But, I will be back from time to time...

Some of the really important things that God seems to be teaching me from his Word lately are:

Trusting Him with the details of my life is of upmost importance.

I am inadequate in so many ways, but God is completely adequate.

In my weaknesses, God is strong.

When I throw little *Kim* fits to my sweet husband, I am reminded of my selfishness and have to bow the knee and repent.

God's Word is beautiful and never returns void, no matter how bad I mess it up with my own words.

We are vapors...and our bodies are becoming more weak and frail, but God always keeps His promises and our future is in Him.

I can no longer fear trials...I know they will come.

I must not always be looking at my present state, but looking at God's future grace in my life in which He is conforming me to His Son's image...and to my future in heaven.

Relationships are important, but God must be first...and I know my needs will be met in Him alone.

Life changes constantly, but the Lord never changes.

His fingerprints are in flakes of snow and that makes me look at awe at Him.

And...he never has to count anything, He always just knows it! What a great God! That just amazes me!

Different Approach This Time

2011-01-18T12:10:00.001-06:00

Those of you that know me can remember my running injury that took place a couple of years ago...I was doing some things that I think could have contributed to becoming injured. This time around, as I am training for a half coming up in March, I am doing a few things differently. To start, I am eating much less restrictively. I was pretty much a vegan back then, with the exception of fish sometimes. I was trying out a very restrictive approach to my eating because first of all, I really love fruits and veggies, and after reading some books, I became convinced that a vegan diet was extremely healthy. I wanted to at least give it a try. During that time I was also running quite a bit....increasing distance, speed, and adding lots of pretty steep hills. It was during a fast 5k that I actully felt the injury happen and when I tried to run a few days later, I realized I couldn't. It was much worse than I orginally thought and I stopped running for about 4 months. I started back super slow with still pain at times. Even today I can still feel it.

Although everything came back great with my blood work, I thought, as well as my doctor, that my calorie intake was just not fueling my body enough for the kind of energy I was using up. Also, I had very little fat in my diet as well. I was stiff, sore, and lacked energy later in the day. I think I could have been deficient in zinc and calcium.

This time I am trying to be smarter and more balanced. My goal is to fuel my body with nutrients, proteins, antioxidants, and fat. I realize now that when I run, my body needs to be replenished and sometimes a red bell pepper and fresh greens are not enough.

So, here are some things I am doing to help me be stronger and injury free this time:

Eating lean red meat once a week
Adding whey protein isolate to my smoothies for extra calories and protein
Adding flax seed meal to yogurt, smoothies, and oatmeal
Eating eggs...and lots of them
Eating some form of protein with every meal and snack
Still eating tons of green veggies and berries
Using real butter and low fat and full fat cheese
Lots of seeds and nuts
Greek yogurt--can't do without this yummy stuff!
Green tea...still a staple
Skim milk
Regular pasta sometimes, but still prefer whole grain
Fortified cereals like Total to give me much needed vitamins since I can't take a supplement

Hopefully, this plan will get me through the training and the run on March 6th!

By Our Love

2011-01-17T11:02:00.001-06:00

Our song of the month.....

Brothers, let us come together
Walking in the Spirit, there's much to be done...
We will come reaching, out from our comforts
And they will know us by our love...

Sisters, we were made for kindness
We can pierce the darkness as He shines through us...
We will come reaching, with a song of healing...
And they will know us by our love!

The time is now
Come Church arise...
Love with His hands
See with His eyes...
Bind it around you,
Let it never leave you,
And they will know us by our love...

Children, Listen to our teaching,
Stand firm in the Truth now, set your hearts above
You will be reaching, long after we’re gone,
And they will know you by your love!

Written by Christy Nockels
© 2009 worshiptogether.com Songs / sixsteps Music (admin. by EMI CMG Publishing) (ASCAP)

From Our Home To Yours....Merry Christmas!

2010-12-19T09:30:00.001-06:00

He is My Light.

2010-12-13T17:45:00.003-06:00

Jesus is the Light of the world--the light that reveals, guides, and shines. His light is considered by many during this season. The lights on our house and tree shine brightly against the darkness of the night...they represent His light in our hearts. Without His light, we would all be in darkness with no hope. But the light of His Word shows us that he is also the Sovereign Ruler of all things.

And how comforting that is.

I have been studying with the ladies of our church through the book of Luke these last few months. It has been a great study. There were some weeks that I only got my reading done, but just being there for the teaching time was so helpful and encouraging to me on my walk with the Lord. I love the Truth that, even in the midst of chaos, Jesus was still in complete control of every situation. From telling his disciples how and where to go get the donkey he would ride into Jerusalem on, to the rooster crowing...to instructing his disciples on how to find the right room for the last supper...to the events of the crucifixion and resurrection...it was all under His sovereign control. His timing was what caused and allowed the critical events that are recorded in Luke to take place. For that, I am so thankful.

It is reassuring to me for so many reasons.

1) I can trust that He knows what I will face today.

2) He has prepared my heart for whatever I may encounter.

3) He gives me what I need to face the future, of which I know nothing about.

4) If he controls everything, I am free to walk without fear and anxiety...knowing that He loves me and is always doing what is best.

5) He loves me and everyone so much that He was willing to suffer and die on a cross made of wood...a death for a common criminal, even though He was perfectly innocent. That same love also motivates Him to do everything He does around me, for me, and through me.

6) His control reminds me that I am NOT in control...even though I pretend I am, at times.

7) His loving sovereignty shows me why I am here and that there is a greater purpose even in the mundane of where I find myself most days.

8) He has chosen my husband and children to surround me and I love to see how he uses each of us to sharpen one another.

9) I am exactly where I am supposed to be, thanks to His choosing.

10) I have spiritual leaders over me in my church family that truly care for my soul and the souls of others....that is all in God's plan for me as well.

Thanking God for what His loving control means to me!

This Week's Dinner Plans

2010-11-22T15:36:00.003-06:00

Monday--Angel hair pasta with chicken, asparagus, and pesto...seeduction rolls from Whole Foods

Tuesday--Turkey Chili with lots of beans (Gracie will be HOME!)

Wednesday--Scrounge night, probably sandwiches and fruit...getting everything ready for Thanksgiving Day!

Thursday--Roasted turkey, sweet potato souffle, broccoli/rice casserole, dinner theatre green beans with brown sugar and toasted almonds, homemade cranberry relish, Mom's dressing and gravy, whole wheat rolls....pumpkin pie, of course!

Friday--Tacos with all the trimmings while decking the halls all day with the family!

Saturday--shopping with the girls...eat out somewhere special.

This Week's Menu

2010-11-16T12:19:00.002-06:00

Monday--Barilla Plus pasta with tomato basil turkey sauce, garlic bread

Tuesday--Roast in the crock pot with carrots, roasted rosemary potatoes, whole kernel corn

Wednesday--Eat out

Thursday--Vegetable soup,cornbread

Friday--Roasted chicken with steamed broccoli, lentils, and spinach salad

Saturday--Tacos, black beans, and fruit salad(strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple)

Trusting in the Hands that NEVER Fail

2010-11-13T11:09:00.004-06:00

It has been a long time since I have mentioned anything about our adoption process...mainly because there hasn't really been any new news. The wait continues to be long. In April it will be 5 years since we watched as our cocker spaniel attacked our social worker when he came to interview us to beging the adoption process. (Not a good start. ha!) At that time Jack Henry was 1, Evie was 3, Abigail was 11, and Gracie was 13. We were so excited to know that God was finally bringing into reality something we had only dreamed about doing. We knew God gave us a desire to adopt and could not wait to meet our daughter from China. At that time the wait was 12-14 months until referral. In just a short year or so we would have our fifth child--one we already loved so much. We KNEW God had a wonderful plan...

God's plan...not always what we think or want. Sometimes, well, a lot of times, it doesn't turn out the way we think it should. How should believers respond to this dissapointment? I'm still learning this and will continue to learn as long as I am on this earth. But, the great joy comes in trusting in the hands that NEVER fail. God does not fail and His ways are ALWAYS good and right. He never changes. Boy, I sure do. I change all the time it seems, especially lately. One day I am energetic, upbeat, motivated...and then the next day I can be tired and feeling sad...emotions and feelings come and go...but God's Word says that He is always the same. When my heart really grasps what that means, I can rest and be assured that He is God and my life is in the hands that NEVER fail!

I'm not sure how long the wait still is...I've heard different things. I don't know if it really matters at this point. Mike and I have talked some lately and we are just not sure what this means for us. We are not sure if it is God's plans for us to adopt now. We have lots of questions. We never thought the wait would be this long. The funny thing is that we know of families that have adopted 2 children from China in the exact time we have been waiting...they chose special needs. Mike and I prayed about this and we never were 100% willing to go that route. I think with my father being ill and some other things going on, we didn't feel that special needs was right for us. We know it is not for everybody.

We are thrilled for those who are adopting and have adopted...but I still sometimes question why God gave us such a strong desire to adopt, if it was not going to happen...why? I'm not shaking my fist angrily at God asking why...it is more of a tearful wondering...God, why were our hearts so full and excited about something that was a good God honoring thing...we had a desire to care for one of your orphans, God...why did you not allow that? I sometimes think, did we do something wrong...should we have adopted domestically...should we have gone with Ethiopia...Guatemala? Did we do something out of God's will that caused it to not be *right*? Lots of questions. But, my final thought in all of this is...I am going to trust in the hands that NEVER fail....those loving hands never fail me or do anything that is not in His perfect will. His ways are best and I want to lovingly and JOYFULLY submit to whatever He wants to do.

Mike and I ran into a sweet friend, who used to be a member of our church, last night. I adore this lady and think of her sweet family often. One of the first things she asked was if we ever adopted our baby from China...we explained about the wait and told her we just were not sure what was going to happen at this point. She said something that is so true and wise...She said..."Think about all that was gained through this process...nothing was a loss because God taught you both so much during this time." It is so true. There are great truths to learn in disappointing times and learning to say...God, you know what is best is one of the sweetest attitudes of the heart.

I don't always believe and live out those words, though...I question and I strive to understand. Thankfully God is patient with me and His grace remnds me to do what I need to do...put my trust in Him in EVERYTHING.

Monday's Menu Plans

2010-11-07T21:34:00.002-06:00

Monday--Tuscan Kale and white bean ragout

Tuesday--Pork tenderloin and pecan sweet potatoes with dried cranberries and maple syrup

Wednesday--Jason's Deli

Thursday--Shrimp Primavera(bell peppers(all colors),mushrooms, and onion sauteed and added to a marinara sauce over penne), baked cinnamon apples

Friday--Fun day....dinner out!

Saturday--Tortilla soup....made with lots of black beans and a little chicken for husband. : )Also, a superfoods salad for me with garlic gold dressing.

Lead Me

2010-09-23T10:04:00.002-05:00

What a gift from the Lord to have a husband who loves me and leads me...Thanking God today for him.

Fall is on the way...and SOUPS are on the Menu!

2010-09-17T10:30:00.019-05:00

Those of you that know me and/or read my blog, know that I love soups and stews...and since fall is approaching it is the perfect time to think about preparing these yummy foods for my family. On the days where the air is crisp and cold, the leaves are turning, and darkness arrives earlier in the evening, there is nothing better than a warm bowl of goodness, a hunk of multigrain bread, and a relaxing evening with my family. I realize it is still a while before we have these kinds of evenings, but it is good to prepare ahead of time and find recipes that everyone will enjoy.

Some staple soups for us are tortilla soup, veggie chili, turkey chili, minestrone soup, lentil soup, white bean soup, and vegetable soup. I found some new soup recipes that I am going to try this fall. They are not really new ideas, but just healthier versions of some older ideas. They all sound so yummy!

Cream of Turkey and Wild Rice Soup

Tuscan Bean Soup

Chicken and Spinach Soup with Pesto

Black Bean Soup

Broccoli-Cheese Chowder

Lentil Soup

Here is a recipe for a super healthy Broccoli Soup that is so simple. You can get multiple servings of cruciferous veggies with this soup:

Superfood Soup

1-2 bags of frozen broccoli, cooked in some water until very tender.
Put broccoli and water in a blender in batches with about 1 TBSP Olive Oil.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Blend until pureed. Put back in pot to heat through.
Top with cheese of choice or just leave plain.

Enjoy!

Living One Day At A Time

2010-08-30T10:56:00.006-05:00

British pastor Martyn Lloyd-Jones said, "Although is it very right to think about the future, it is very wrong to be controlled by it."

This quote really hit me hard this morning from John MacArthur's Strength for Today. I struggle in this area. I can easily get anxious about tomorrow...even the change of seasons does that to me. For example, lately my mind has been consumed by what we need for fall. Evie needs a couple of new fall dresses, tights, etc....Jack Henry will need some new khakis, long sleeve shirts, coats, and shoes. I can get all stressed and out of whack in my thinking about what I need to shop for to make sure my children and myself are clothed and prepared for cooler weather. My tendency is to work ahead. I am not a procrastinator at all, so I think ahead a lot and try to accomplish what I need to do way ahead of time. At times I have called it being organized, but in reality it is more a result from sinful anxiety and worry and not *feeling* good until it all gets done. Silly as it sounds there are a multitude of distractions and sinful worries that can consume a mom's mind and heart. I do realize it is wrong to worry, but in my weakness I catch myself doing just that.

I'm not even mentioning the deeper fears and worries I can struggle with.

The clothing issue is such a superficial worry, I realize that...Mike has said to me year after year...."Kim, it will not be cool/cold probably until late October or even November...it will all be fine". I realize he is right and try to RELAX about it. I must say that God has helped me have joy in the days that worry can so easily take over my thoughts.

God so graciously has been teaching me that worry causes a lack of joy, which is a sin,also. I miss the joy of a day that the Lord has given me because I am busy worrying about the what ifs that will probably never happen anyway. How silly of me! God gives us such glorious and blissful days and we so easily forfeit that joy for worry over the future. What a weak soul I have!

God gives us strength and grace for only one day at a time. He doesn't give us what we need until we need it. We can face what comes tomorrow because He will give the grace needed for that day.

John MacArthur says in my devotional for today:

"If you have any questions about the future, look at the past. Did He sustain you then? He will sustain you in the future...Praise God for being the same yesterday, today, and forever."

The stores will have what we need later...today I will choose JOY!

Well, We Did It.

2010-08-21T15:36:00.005-05:00

"All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind is a part of ourselves." (Anatole France)

We are back home after moving Gracie into Union University. I have been so excited for her and upbeat until last night and today. It has been much harder than I thought it would be. Maybe it is because it is the first one...maybe it is because she is a daughter...maybe it is because our family is so close...I don't know...but the whole house feels different now that we are back home. There is a sadness and a lump in my throat that has not gone away since last night. We are so happy for her and her future...I just think it will hurt for a little while.

I do have to say that we are so thrilled with her choice of Union and they out did themselves yesterday with a totally organized move in day, a very helpful parent's meeting filled with wonderful ecnouragement and advice, and a heart wrenching worship service last night where we sang, heard excellent teaching/preaching from Dr. Thornbury, and ended with the parents and faculty making a huge circle around all of the new students to pray for them. That is something special that we know does not go on everywhere. We are very thankful for UNION!

Gracie as well as all the new students said this as we recited together the Words of Consecration:

We enter this university with confidence. We know that God's plan is perfect and that He is faithful. God has brought us to this point. We commit ourselves to love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our mind, and with all our strength. WE acknowledge that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. We ask today that God might help us unite our love for Him with our love for learning through all that takes place here.

Towards the end of the Words of Consecration the parents said this:

We acknowledge that our children are gifts from the Lord. With gratitude for God's faithfulness and confidence in His plan for the future, we commit our children to God's care as they begin these university years. We will pray for them and encourage them as they grow in stature and wisdom of the Lord. We will pray for those who serve in this place.

For the next few days Gracie will be in orientation and super busy. Classes begin for her on Tuesday. We will begin homeschooling our younger children this week and life will take on a bittersweet normalcy again. God is good and His plans are perfect...but no one said it would be easy to let go.

Gracie, We love you so much and we are committed to praying for you each day. We have watched you make choices that are not always the popular things...and we know your heart's desire to try to live a pure life. As you have made these choices for the Lord, we pray that God would bless you with the desires of your heart. And that your desires would be godly ones. Live to please Him and honor Him each day.

Blessings...the Simple Things

2010-07-12T13:49:00.004-05:00

The summer is going by quickly. Mike and I have been praying and talking about some pretty serious life changing things lately and it seems with my older 2 girls getting busier...and my younger 2 being needier(I think that must be their ages), there has not been a lot of time left for blogging. I do miss it....BUT, one of the things I try to do, and I don't always do it successfully, is to manage my time wisely...with appropriate time on the most important things in life. Hence, that is why I have not had many blog posts lately. Other more important things have needed priority.

Also, we have been having some summer fun! We spent a wonderful, but rainy week, at the beach with lots of family members. I just love the beach...it shows the majesty of God every where you look! I could sit and walk along the beach for hours, just admiring the beauty and the greatness of a God who created it all. We went to a low country shrimp boil with family, looked for seashells, ate some delicious seafood dinners out(Stinky's, Cafe 30 A (love their arugula salad and grilled Hawaiian butterfish!), Louisiana Laginappe, and Angelina's), shopped a little, and enjoyed our cozy beach bungalow when it was rainy. Our family is unique for quite a few reasons...1) My mom is one of 8 children so we have a large family 2)Even though we live all over the place, I am close to my aunts and uncles and cousins 3) We get together every 3 years for a week long vacation. This week at the beach was very fun mainly because all of the second cousins spent so much time together...it was as if they were all best friends! Fun times, indeed!

An accomplishment that I am very excited about is getting my running back(almost)to where it was pre-injury! I am upping my mileage these days and even had a longer run(8.2 miles) on Saturday with no injury pain in my hip! I am so happy about that! I was exhausted for about 24 hours, but I am not injured anymore! Yea! I am still planning on running a half marathon sometime and have been looking into which one I want to try. I may do a local one, but am also open to traveling out of state for a fun one. Trust me, though...I am taking it slow and am not even trying to work on speed this time...nope...just the distance and hills only...slow and steady.

About school for our children: We will still be homeschooling full time our youngest 2, but Abigail will be going to a classical preparatory school part time and home schooling the other three days. I think it will be good for her while Gracie is gone. She is going to miss her!

Gracie will be moving into Union University on August 20th which is coming up soon! With the day approaching we have a lot of things to do...shopping for the dorm room decor, making sure we have all of the basic necessities for Gracie to live with out us close by, and imagining what our home is going to be like without her in it every day! But, I have to say that I am doing fine....actually very well for someone who cried at the kitchen sink when she was in 9th grade thinking about letting go. How am I handling it you may ask? God's grace in my life--that is the only answer. In my own flesh I would be hanging on and thinking about how all of this would affect ME...How sad I would be and how OUR home would change so much. Well, God has so kindly shown me since that crying fit at the sink that it is not about me and what I want and what I think. God has a plan. He is enough to meet all my needs through this change as well as anything else that should come our way. He has so graciously given me three other children to care for and a wonderful life that I can only say thank you for. What blessings! And...I am excited and joyful about Gracie's future. God has replaced my sadness and insecurities with joy and thanksgiving!

Here we are at Seaside:

Summer Time

2010-06-14T14:51:00.012-05:00

Whew...! It is so hot here. For June, that is. We see temps close to the 100 mark in July and August, but I am dripping wet each time I step outside these days. If I run anytime after 7am, I am completely drenched. I love to sweat so that is okay--if I am dressed for it...running shorts, cap, and tops that wicks away the sweat. Loved my early morning run today, but lately my runs have been around 10am...and it is just a tad too hot for me. Running has been great lately and I am so thankful to be pretty much healed from my injury. I do feel it every now and then...like when I hiked a couple of weeks ago, but that was like stair climbing. I was fine the next day. Very thankful...running is such a part of me.

We are having a wonderful summer. I am really careful not to plan too much for my kids, because I really just enjoy having some lazy pool days or just play days for my younger ones...they need it after working so hard all year in school!

So, here is a recap of what has been taking up our days lately.

Lots of time here...our pool. The younger kids want to swim everyday--they love it so much. The water is the perfect temp right now...not too cold...so I will get in, too! I love to do some aqua jogging when it is this hot.

My oldest spent 2 weeks here...she loved it! We are glad to have her home, though.

Jack Henry is playing baseball for the first time. He has been a great first baseman. He counts the outs he gets instead of the runs...that is how he knows who won(by the number of outs). He is the cutest first baseman I have ever seen!

Evie is attending a fun princess camp(day camp) this week at a local children's shop. They are learning etiquette, making crafts, dressing up, eating snacks, and having a tea party on the last day. PERFECT for her.

We have been to Memphis for a fun family day.

I have been having some fun cooking/making some new things from this cookbook.

I have been shopping some here for fun beach clothes for our upcoming trip!

I have been reading through Proverbs and Jonah this summer. Our pastor is preaching in Proverbs right now and the ladies of our church are doing a Bible Study on Jonah, which I can not go to....so I wanted to study along with them. This where I like to have my quiet time.

We recently bought this book and have been reading it during family worship time.

Coming soon....a wonderful beach trip(can't wait), soccer camp for Abigail at Union University, and a trip to Union to get Gracie all registered for the fall and to meet her other 2 roommates.

We are also praying about some or all of our kids going to a small classical preparatory school 2 days a week and homeschooling the other 3 days. It would be different for us...but good in a lot of ways. Just not sure yet...we are so careful about what we choose for our children and this is a big deal. Praying for God's wisdom.

Words From Dad

2010-05-20T13:15:00.003-05:00

As I recall the last eighteen years with you, many memories fill my mind.

Pink baby socks and hair bows...
Your little voice when you learned to say Abigail...
The song about the "boolish" man who built his house upon the sand...
Running through the yard barefoot with the sprinklers on in the hot summer sun...
Snow cones and sticky fingers at the ball park...
Lemonade stands in the front yard...
Soccer cleats and piano lessons...
Roses for violin and dance recitals...
Watching you look at books for 45 minutes when you were only 18 months old--you still love books and your passion for reading has grown over the years...
The time you said thank you to your mother after a disciplinary action...
You dressed in white at age 6 with me in my tuxedo dancing to butterfly kisses...
The excitement of your first father daughter banquet and the bittersweet feelings of your last...
Bedtime prayers as a toddler, Bible stories as a child, and later deeper conversations about God, your life, your future; character qualities to develop in yourself and to look for in others....Gracie, these are the times I will miss the most.

When you were a child we set the course for your life, the decisions that would affect you the most were made by your parents--the decisions about how and where you were educated, where we live, where we go to church, and what we teach in our home about God. Through God's sovereign providence many things have come together to shape you into the person you are today. My prayer for you is that you will continue to walk the "narrow way" as you transition from our home to life in college.

Beware that everyday life is a challenge...we live in a world filled with distractions and temptations. The world will pull at you relentlessly. At some point your faith and your beliefs will be challenged, do not be surprised by this, but rather be prepared for it.

Be wise in your decisions, even small ones may have profound effects on the rest of your life. Do not be afraid to take on leadership responsibility when necessary, but do so with humility and a servant's attitude. Be friendly to everyone, but choose your friends carefully...they will have more influence on you than you think. Never try to be noticed, but live by a code of conduct that honors God...as if you live for an audience of One. Remember to pray everyday, giving thanks to God for the provisions and opportunities of each day. Do not take for granted His kindness and grace toward you.

You are our first born daughter, a blessing from God and we are truly grateful. We love you very much and count it a privilege to call you our daughter.

Love,
Dad

Beholding the God of Self Sufficient Fullness

2010-05-11T08:53:00.003-05:00

Our family had the privilege of sitting under the teaching of Dr. Bruce Ware this past Sunday at church. He is the Professor of Christian Theology at Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky and the author of one of my favorite books, Big Truth for Young Hearts. I have been going through this book with my children a little bit at a time and it is wonderful....even for me to read!

He taught on the self sufficiency of God. It was excellent. After leaving I wanted to enroll in one of his classes! I loved his passion, his accuracy and carefulness with the Word, and his way up there high view of God!

He stated a few things that are worthy to pass on.

When we compare what we have, can we add to the greatness, wisdom, and knowledge of God? No--all we have is what He has granted to us. He is infinitely full. We depend on God for everything, He depends on us not at all.

So then, why are we here? What is our purpose?

The answer is not that God was lonely and needed fellowship. Psalm 50--He's offended and dishonored to think so.

Rather, particularly in relation to His people, the answer is this: Though He doesn't need us, He loves us, and His purpose in creating and redeeming us is not that we might fill up some lack in Him, but that he might fill us up with Himself. He made us empty to be filled with His fullness, thirsty to drink of the water of life, weak to receive His strength, foolish to be instructed and corrected by His wisdom. In His love, He longs to give, to share the bounty. He wants us to experience in finite measure the fullness of joy and blessing that He knows infinitely--all to redound to the praise and glory of His name, the Giver and Provider of all the good we enjoy.

These truths just make me love God more....for who He is and what I am which is...an empty, thirsty, weak, and foolish person...that He chooses to love and fill. Incredible.

Green Smoothie

2010-05-10T11:38:00.002-05:00

Recipe for a nutrient dense green smoothie:

1 large handful of Kale...stems and all.
1 banana
1/2 cup of calcium enriched simply orange
Sambazon Acai organic berry puree (1 packet)
some frozen mango

Blend and enjoy!

Power Tool in the Kitchen

2010-05-07T20:10:00.008-05:00

My sweet husband surprised me today with an early mother's day gift. I have mentioned that I would like one of these a couple of times, but we never discussed actually getting one. I first learned about it when I was eating a mostly vegan diet because it is great at pureeing soups that are made with tons of veggies. Lately I have begun eating more raw foods and experimenting with different kinds of green smoothies. This machine is highly recommended for anything that needs blending, chopping, pureeing, grinding, wet chopping, etc....it can handle it all. I am so excited to have one of these, but, I am a little shocked my husband bought me one...afterall, we have a pretty decent blender already. This is the ultimate blender...the book that came with is says it is so much more than an ordinary blender, they call it The Professional Chef's Power Tool.

It is the Vitamix Vitaprep 3....isn't it cute?

I can't wait to make some spinach pesto, homemade salsa, and tons of green smoothies!

My green smoothie recipe:

Please know you can really add anything you like to make this....this just happens to be my favorite right now. Also, I am gradually trying to add more greens and less fruit, so that it is nutrient packed.

2 handfuls of fresh kale or baby spinach
frozen mango
frozen peaches
1 banana
a few ounces of greek yogurt (protein source)
Small amount of simply orange with calcium

Blend well....this makes a beautiful lime green smoothie and has just the right amount of sweetness.

Happy 18th

2010-05-06T11:29:00.009-05:00

Celebrating the beautiful young woman you have become!

From this...

To this...in what seems like such a short time.

Shelter in the Storm

2010-04-21T15:58:00.003-05:00

I love this song by Sovereign Grace Music. I really enjoy running to it...not because it is a good running song...it is actually pretty slow...but the words keep me going, especially that second verse.

I have a shelter in the storm
When troubles pour upon me
Though fears are rising like a flood
My soul can rest securely
O Jesus, I will hide in You
My place of peace and solace
No trial is deeper than Your love
That comforts all my sorrows

I have a shelter in the storm
When all my sins accuse me
Though justice charges me with guilt
Your grace will not refuse me
O Jesus, I will hide in You
Who bore my condemnation
I find my refuge in Your wounds
For there I find salvation

I have a shelter in the storm
When constant winds would break me
For in my weakness, I have learned
Your strength will not forsake me
O Jesus, I will hide in You
The One who bears my burdens
With faithful hands that cannot fail
You’ll bring me home to heaven

Monday Menus

2010-04-11T18:39:00.012-05:00

Happy Monday!

I was not able to make the mahi mahi on Friday night from last week's menu because I had to be out of town taking 2 of my kids places....but I was able to pick up a salad *to go* from one of my favorite places of all times and eat it when I got home. The salad was so good. I would love to figure out how to make the dressing...it was yogurt cucumber dill. The salad has a mixture of spinach and romaine with chick peas, diced red onions, cucumbers with the peeling, mango, roasted chicken, and slivered almonds...and with that yummy dressing, it was divine! No complaints at all on missing the mahi mahi....we'll just have it this week!

Monday--Blackened mahi mahi, couscous, and roasted asparagus. Tonight will be JHs very first baseball practice ever...so dinner will be a tad rushed.

Tuesday--Citrus chicken with steamed broccoli...a large yummy superfoods salad for me!

Wednesday--Maybe Jason's Deli or Pei Wei

Thursday--Romaine salad with oranges, feta, and beans for me and a rotisserie chicken and baked sweet potatoes for the family. I will eat a sweet potato, too. Love those!

Friday--Women's conference for my 2 oldest and me. We will be eating out...not sure where yet.

I made a really yummy salad today for lunch. I found the recipe here, but I changed it up a bit to make it a little healthier and more colorful.

My version:

Organic leafy greens, the darker green the better!
Cut up cantaloupe and sliced strawberries
Feta cheese, just a little crumbled
Chopped walnuts
3 oz poached chicken

Dressing:
1/4 cup of 0% fage plain greek yogurt
2-3 TBSP raspberry vinegar
3 TBSP simply orange juice
2 tsp poppy seeds
salt and pepper

Whisk together and if it is too think, add some more OJ.

Monday Menus

2010-04-05T12:31:00.010-05:00

Shocked? I knew you would be! I have been making out my weekly menus in a meal planning book that I have, but have failed to put them on my blog. I must try to do that again...it always helps me to stay organized and maybe I can share a recipe or two while I am at it!

I hope you had a wonderful Resurrection Sunday. Our was amazing...beginning on Friday night with a very special Good Friday service at our church. We were able to take my mom with us this time and that was nice. I always appreciate the amount of scripture read, the God honoring songs, and taking the Lord's Supper with other believers. The thing I always take away from this evening is this: God's redeeming plan for us came at a great cost...and one we should never take lightly or speak of in a carefree way. Christ's death was one of extreme suffering...but "He poured out His soul to death" willingly....and it pleased the Father to crush Him. It is a time of seriousness, but also great rejoicing, knowing that God's love is so vast and deep that He would give His only Son for me and you. That love is so perfect and divine...something as humans we can not really understand fully. But we can trust in it and give Him our all as a result. I appreciate our pastors so much for making this emphasis and causing our hearts to turn toward what is really important. Why do we drive an hour to our church? I guess this sums it up.

Here is the menu!

Monday--Portobello Mushroom Pasta
Tuesday--Chicken Taco Soup, but I use organic chicken or vegetable broth instead of the beer.
Wednesday--Jason's Deli
Thursday--Whole Wheat spaghetti with a turkey chunky meat sauce
Friday--Blackened Mahi Mahi, roasted asparagus, couscous or brown rice

Creamy Asparagus Spring Soup

2010-03-24T08:09:00.004-05:00

I LOVE asparagus! It is definitely my favorite vegetable....I especially love it roasted, but I am always on the lookout for great recipes using asparagus. Recently I was in the Whole Foods Market and they had made this soup and were allowing others to sample it. Yum! I knew right away that I would need to make this one soon! I made it last night and it was very easy and good. I followed the directions exactly, but I am sure that Fage plain greek yogurt could be substituted for the light sour cream and that would add a lot more protein. I will be trying that next time.

Creamy Spring Asparagus Soup

Serves 4

Serve this delightful spring soup with crusty bread or top with homemade croutons.
Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1 large leek, white and light green parts only, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 medium Yukon gold potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), woody stems snapped off and discarded, spears cut into 1-inch pieces
1/3 cup low-fat sour cream
Sea salt and ground pepper
2 tablespoons chopped chives

Method:

Melt butter in a medium pot over medium low heat. Add leeks and cook, stirring often, until tender, about 10 minutes. Add broth and potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low, add asparagus and simmer gently until potatoes and asparagus are tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove pot from heat ad set aside to let cool slightly.

Carefully transfer soup to blender in batches and purée until smooth. Return soup to pot and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, whisk in sour cream and season with salt and pepper. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with chives and serve.
Nutrition

Per serving (about 15oz/426g-wt.): 140 calories (50 from fat), 5g total fat, 2.5g saturated fat, 20mg cholesterol, 480mg sodium, 19g total carbohydrate (4g dietary fiber, 6g sugar), 5g protein

Recipe from Whole Foods.

A Son is a Joy...

2010-03-20T19:49:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday Sweet Little Guy! We can't believe you are already 5! And such a BIG 5 you are!

Things we love about having a son:

Left handed little golf clubs in the locker

Jean with holes in the knees in the closet

Cowboy boots coated with mud by the back door

Thomas the Tank Engines all over the playroom...even though we have the table to keep them on...

Playroom closet full of basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, and baseballs...all kinds, all sizes!

Hearing a deep little boy voice echoing through the house

An attitude of courage and bravery--no fears

Strength...even though you are the smallest...I think you are the strongest!

Laughter and joy everyday!

This is still our prayer for our son...even more so as he grows older and can see his own sinful heart more. Praying that he would desire to walk in God's ways all the days of his life.

Psalm 119:1-16
1 Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord!
2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies,
who seek him with their whole heart,
3 who also do no wrong,
but walk in his ways!
4 You have commanded your precepts
to be kept diligently.
5 Oh that my ways may be steadfast
in keeping your statutes!
6 Then I shall not be put to shame,
having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
7 I will praise you with an upright heart,
when I learn your righteous rules.
8 I will keep your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me!
9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By guarding it according to your word.
10 With my whole heart I seek you;
let me not wander from your commandments!
11 I have stored up your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.
12 Blessed are you, O Lord;
teach me your statutes!
13 With my lips I declare
all the rules of your mouth.
14 In the way of your testimonies I delight
as much as in all riches.
15 I will meditate on your precepts
and fix my eyes on your ways.
16 I will delight in your statutes;
I will not forget your word.

Blessed Beyond Measure

2010-03-08T16:45:00.007-06:00

The time has come that Gracie has decided on a home for the next 4 years....It is Union University and we could not be happier with her choice.

She and I visited Union in September and we both knew then that this was a very special place. Of all the colleges we were able to visit or learn about, Union impressed us a lot from the beginning. It is truly a Christ centered university...not in name only, but in reality. That means something. Some schools we learned about said they were Christ centered, but there was little evidence to support that statement. The exception to that was the Master's College, which we would have loved for Gracie, but she decided against that one because of the distance. Plus, her daddy decided it was too far away for his little girl. I agreed. The distance was something we considered because Mike plans on being very involved in any future relationship with a young man that may happen in the years to come. Union is close enough for us to get there for a weekend and she can come home anytime as well. The academics look outstanding at Union as well and we look forward to see how this school equips Gracie to make a difference in the world around her.

One of the main aspects of this university that we like is that the philosophy of everything that is learned must be integrated with Christianity...the only way to see the world clearly is to see it through the lens of Christianity. Everything without Christ is futile. We could not agree more. This will only enhance her worldview and confirm what she has learned in our home and our church. A perfect fit in every way.

Gracie was recently invited to the scholar's weekend at Union and our whole family went. Mike and I attended a nice dinner that first night where we heard President David Dockery speak so well about the mission of the school. Since Mike had not visited Union yet, he was very impressed with what he heard. We also ran into a couple of families that Gracie and I had met that weekend in September, which was so nice. It is always good to see some familiar faces...and make some new friendships along the way!

On Saturday, Gracie was interviewed 3 times...once in a group on current events, once in a group on a book they were assigned to read, and one private interview with three professors. I really appreciate all the time and preparation that goes into this weekend--it is truly a big event and it all went very smoothly and was such a blessing for us in a lot of ways. For example, the University provided child care and pizza for our other children during the Friday night banquet--that was so helpful. They thought of everything.

We visited a wonderful church while there...a smaller church than what she is used to, but it felt warm and family-like and we really appreciated the teaching and focus of the church's ministry. I'm sure Gracie will visit a few others before making a decision, but it was comforting to know that this church was very like minded with our church.

Gracie received a phone call about a week and a half later to let her know that she had received the Provost scholarship...FULL TUITION! We are blessed beyond measure and we know that God is the giver of all good gifts. Although our family knows how hard she has worked for this, ultimately, we all acknowledge that it is the Lord who we boast in...and who we place our trust in. He has provided a way for her to go to this school and we are so undeserving of His kindness. This is one of those days when I can say "the sun is shining down on me...when the world is all that it should be", but we want to always remember that we will bless His name if He chooses to give or to take away. Blessed be His name in all things.

Gracie, congratulations! We love you so much!

This is the Great Adventure....

2010-03-03T12:52:00.008-06:00

Called life. It has been super busy around our place and I only have 4 wonderful blessings...I have so many friends with more children than us, so I know we are not any busier than anyone else out there....I also know God gives extreme grace to us no matter what size our family is....still the days can get crazy sometimes and sometimes, well mostly all the time, we establish our plans and God has other plans in mind.

For example, Evie and I had the most terrible stomach bug the week before our father daughter banquet..it was the kind that lasted quite a few days(all week for me) with the threat of dehydration looming all the time. I had to make myself sip water and eat small amounts of bananas...or crackers...or breadcrumbs...and that is basically what I lived on for 3-4 days. My lips were cracked and I was really weak--which are signs of dehydration. By the end of the week last week, I was guzzling water like crazy and little by little I came back to the land of the living. Thankfully, just in time to help with the Father Daughter Banquet, which was on Saturday evening. I know God did that for me.

I think my favorite thing about actually helping with the banquet is being there and seeing how beautiful and happy all of the girls look. The younger girls are so excited to be there for the first time, which makes it extra precious. Their hair is fixed just perfectly...their dresses look like they are from a real Cinderella movie...and their faces are glowing with anticipated joy....all of this for a special evening with their fathers. That thrills my heart like nothing else.

This year was extra special for us...it was Gracie's last father daughter banquet. LAST ONE! I think we will be talking a lot about Gracie's last things in the next few months. Ah, the season's of life and the way things change over the years. It seems just like the other day when I was helping Gracie get ready for her first Father Daughter Banquet. We shopped for the perfect modest dress...had it altered to fit(because nothing fit that skinny girl)...made some first make up purchases--a soft silvery eye shadow and pink pearl lip gloss for a girl that NEVER wore makeup and never asked to. But this night was worth some extra sweetness...after all, she was getting dressed up to honor her father and let him know what he means to her.

This time, at the banquet, Gracie got up and shared publicly what her daddy means to her. As I listened to her well prepared and heart touching words of a daddy's sacrificial love, I could only pray quietly in my heart. My prayer went something like this:

Dear Holy God, Thank you, Amen. (nothing more to say)

It was a wonderful evening and one Mike and I will never forget. It wasn't the fanciest of banquets...nor was it the most original--no fabulous new ideas and very little creativity...but, I think that God is glorified when we acknowledge Him as our Mighty Perfect Holy God and see that all of our blessings in life...especially family relationships...are a gift from Him.

In a world where parents are routinely rebelled against, seen as old fashioned, ridiculed by their children, and talked down to and looked down on...it is a beautiful thing when we bow the knee to give thanks for our daddies. I pray every girl there that night did that in their hearts. I also pray that every daddy continues to cherish their little girls and sees them as the blessings that they are...because one day they will be...gone.

Fear...Is it Your Imagination?

2010-02-18T14:42:00.006-06:00

Most of the time, yes. I don't know if you are this way, but I tend to make myself fearful because of the imaginations that I conjure up in my head. For example, if Mike is a few minutes late home from work and he hasn't called...I think,"Is he in an accident or has he had a heart attack?"...Gracie is not answering her cell phone...what is wrong? Is she okay? I can come up with all kinds of ridiculous scenarios that could happen to someone that I love. My thoughts immediately go to the wild(very unlikely) thought up ideas or the worse case scenarios from Fox news. Why? Because my heart is weak, wicked, and can not be trusted...even with my thought life. We are our own worst enemy, are we not?

This sinful fear and worry can cause lots of problems for the Christian woman. And we must guard our hearts and minds constantly so that it does not swallow us up. We have a natural God given quality that makes us take care of, nurture, and look out for those we love...and that is a good thing. But, when we take our eyes off of Christ and His supreme reign over every event that happens or could happen, we can easily get caught up in anxiety, worry, depressions, fear, and even hopelessness. The antidote? Completely trusting in the One who is all powerful, all wise, and all knowing...He knows everything, has the wisdom to know how to do things best, and He has the power to do it--plus, He loves us.

Why would any of us waver in our thoughts from this wonderful God who loves us with an everlasting love? Trusting Him...that is the place and state of mind I desire the most.

Elyse Fitzpatrick says this in a book that I read and reread...

Fear that exists in our imagination is a formidable foe. But it can be put to death by the Spirit and faith. The great English preacher, Charles Spurgeon once preached a sermon on needless fear. Here is a portion of what he said:

"...many of God's people are constantly under apprehensions of calamities which will never occur to them, and they suffer far more in merely dreading them than they would have to endure if they actually came upon them. In their imagination, there are rivers in their way, and they are anxious to know how they shall wade through them, or swim across them. There are no such rivers in existence, but they are agitated and distressed about them...these timid people are continually crossing bridges that only exist in their...fancies. They stab themselves with imaginary daggers, they starve themselves in imaginary famines, and even bury themselves in imaginary graves..."

From Overcoming Fear, Worry, and Anxiety by Elyse Fitzpatrick

I am reminded of Philippians 4:8:

Finally, brothers, whatever is TRUE, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

No Greater Love

2010-02-14T23:15:00.002-06:00

I bought this movie for Mike for Valentine's day. We watched it tonight and it was excellent. What a great story of love, forgiveness, second chances, and reconciliation. If you haven't seen it, I think you should. You can get it here.

I Will Sing You A Lullaby

2010-02-08T10:40:00.007-06:00

Our little one turned seven years old recently. She is such a joy and a wonderful gift from God. I cherish each day of being her mother.

Photo by Anita Wilson

Golden Slumbers

Golden slumber kiss your eyes,
Smiles await you when you rise.
Sleep, pretty baby,
Do not cry,
And I will sing you a lullaby.

Care is heavy, therefore sleep,
While I o'er you watch do keep.
Sleep, pretty darling,
Do not cry,
And I will sing you a lullaby.

I began a tradition with our little one in the last couple of years. Each night after we read, we have *sing and scratch* time. I heard about this on Family Life one day and thought this particular child would love this idea since she is always begging for me to scratch her back, tickle her arms, etc. She does love this time and I think it is a fitting way to end her day. I am hoping she will always remember our sing and scratch time. I softly scratch her back while singing hymns(2-3). We have these 2 books and I sing from them. Such a sweet time.

Happy Birthday precious girl!

Healthy and Delicious!

2010-02-04T14:13:00.012-06:00

Here are some yummy foods I have been making and trying out. Love them all and recommend them to you! Bon Appetit!

Roasted red peppers stuffed with quinoa. This is not only gorgeous, but so tasty...you can add some cooked chicken to the quinoa mixture if you'd like. I actually left out the carrots and cashews and it was really good. Chili powder is good instead of cinnamon...but I did enjoy the cinnamon as something different.

Roasted chickpeas--These are good as a snack or on a salad.

Mushroom and Spinach Omelet...I used less cheese and no olive oil...only a light sprinkle of olive oil spray.

Banana peanut butter oatmeal. I like to use organic Irish oats and mix in the bananas, cinnamon(I always add cinnamon), and vanilla and just plop some natural peanut butter on top after cooking...get a small bit of peanut butter with each bite. I use skim milk and it is so good! Must try!

Hearty Turkey Chili

Roasted Vegetable Pasta...this can be changed up depending on what you have on hand. I use whole wheat penne and sprinkle with a tad of grated parmesan

Gospel News

2010-01-30T13:47:00.001-06:00

Beauty

2010-01-20T08:30:00.000-06:00

Spiritual beauty

"Worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth!" Psalm 96:9

"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us." Psalm 90:17

Paul enjoins that, "whatsoever things are lovely" shall be in the vision of life, into which we aim to fashion our character.

We are to follow in the footsteps of our Master. Jesus Himself was, "Altogether lovely!" Song of Songs 5:16

Humanity was made to be beautiful. God's ideal for man was spotless loveliness--man was made at first, in God's image. But sin has left its foul trail everywhere! We see something of its debasement, wherever we go. What ruins sin has wrought!

All of Christ's work of grace--is towards the restoration of beauty of the Lord in His people.

Spiritual beauty is holiness. Nothing unclean is lovely. Character is Christ-like, only when it is beautiful.

All the precepts of the Bible are towards the fashioning of beauty in every redeemed life. We are to put away . . .
all that is sinful,
all marring,
every blot and blemish,
every unholy desire, feeling and affection,
everything that would defile--
and put on whatsoever is lovely and Christ-like.

The one great work of Christ in Christian lives--is the fashioning of holiness in them. We are to grow away from . . .
our deformities,
our faults,
our infirmities,
our poor dwarfed stunted life
--into spiritual beauty!

The mark set before us is the likeness of Christ, which, at last, we shall attain! "We know that when He appears--we will be like Him, because we will see Him as He is! And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself--just as He is pure." 1 John 3:2-3

(J. R. Miller, "Strength and Beauty")

Supremacy and Excellency of Jesus Christ

2010-01-11T11:03:00.007-06:00

I am so thankful for my church and the pastors who serve us by teaching, leading, and ministering in so many ways. It is a very rare thing to be in a church where the teaching is solid, Biblically based week after week, taught with depth and accuracy, and applicable to our lives. I especially appreciate the high view of God that is held and taught. I think so many times well meaning churches become so man focused that God becomes little and man becomes big. The result is a low view of God and His Word...the teaching becomes shallow, the sermons become easy to hear, and the leadership settles for mediocrity, which is easier for them as well. The people then are not truly served in the way the Bible says the church should be...they are left with a vague understanding of scripture, a low view of God and His sovereignty, and confused on many Biblical topics because these topics are never addressed.

I know, as believers, we are responsible to learn, study, and grow...and we can not nor should not depend totally on a local church to do that for us...but, how wonderful it is to have pastors lovingly looking out for our souls as they prepare and study each week...and when we come together, they are making sure that we are being fed the depth of God's Word, so that we can grow, learn, and be equipped to go out and serve and love a lost world. I am challenged by that. Having this in my life causes my heart to overflow in thanksgiving to God for allowing our family to be so blessed, challenged, and encouraged.

This past Sunday I was greatly encouraged by some facts that were taught. Some astounding facts...nothing new in this information, but my heart grasped it in a new more permanent way...does that ever happen to you? Something we might hear often, but then one day it clicks, it is sealed, it is certain without a doubt true, and it sticks...becomes a permanent part of the fabric of who I am in Christ. It was one of those times and I want to share it with you.

Hebrews 1:1-4

8 Facts that show the supremacy and excellency of Christ:

1) God has spoken through His Son whom He appointed heir of the universe. Jesus, the man, fully human and fully God, is the ruler over all things.

2) Christ, fully man and God, is the creator of everything in the universe

3) Christ(as a man and God) is the radiance of God's glory.

4) He is also the EXACT imprint of God the Father's nature(character).

5) Jesus is the sustainer of the universe. He keeps everything going just as it should.

6) He(the man and God) provided Himself as the ultimate sacrifice to make US right before a Holy and just God---through the purification of OUR sins...He has redeemed us.

7) Christ was exalted to the right hand of God.

8) His unique status causes Him to be superior to the angels and His name is the name above all names.

This means a lot to me...why is this so special you ask?....Don't we already know this? Well, there is a difference in having head knowledge and a heart knowledge. My heart has this stamped and sure now. And what comfort and joy it brings.

Grocery Staples and Some Random Catching Up.

2010-01-06T09:41:00.005-06:00

Organic Irish oats

organic fresh berries(blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) if available

Organic greens (spinach, romaine, field greens, kale)

bananas and organic gala apples

Veggies like broccoli, carrots, zucchini, onions, sweet potatoes, reg potatoes, tomatoes, red peppers, asparagus,and mushrooms

Omega 3 eggs

No fat greek yogurt

salmon and other fish (tilapia, low mercury tuna)

extra lean ground turkey

1 gram of fat or less pasta sauce

whole wheat pastas or half whole grain

Maranatha peanut butter, honey, real maple syrup

Frozen veggies...like collard greens, spinach, broccoli medley, corn, etc

Canned(I drain and rinse) and dried beans and lentils.

Some cereals...multi grain cheerioes, Kashi brand, Bear Naked fit granola.

Breads--Whole wheat loaf and english muffins

Green teas and coffee, organic skim milk, some juices

I like to make lists of things to help simplify grocery shopping...this is one of my lists which shows the basics of groceries for weekly and monthly shopping. I try to buy fresh as much as possible, so a lot of these things are weekly purchases...but some things like oats, cereals, canned foods, etc may be monthly or so. I, also, buy some different things for my kids...like 2% milk, instant oats, some canned soups, a few convenience foods that they like. So, healthy foods are the goal, but I don't limit my kids as much as I limit myself.

Although I did the vegan thing for about a year and a half, I have added back some healthy animal foods...I have come to find that I do not like the labels(vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, etc) and restrictions that are involved with that way of eating. I just try to eat as healthy as possible with lots of variations to my diet. I felt great with the vegan diet in the beginning and still believe it is a very healthy way to eat, but I started to see that I was not getting enough calories or healthy fats. Plus, I was burning so many calories with my running and working out, that I was not consuming enough calories to maintain a good healthy weight. I had some health issues(lightheadeness, lack of energy at times, etc) that had to be checked out by my doctor and although everything came back fine from my bloodwork, I needed to change some things. It is all about balance and seeing what is best for your own body. Some people may do great on a strictly vegetarian diet, while some may need a little more protein and fat. Everyone is different.

I still am doing my Monday Menus in a book I have, but have not been posting them regularly on my blog. I may try to get back to that some this year. The time I spend keeping up with a blog has been harder this school year with more teaching time with my younger ones...a senior who is busy with college applications, essay writing, etc that we help her with...plus, just setting priorities with my Bible study and time with my children does not always allow for a blog post! I know you busy moms understand!

This week has been challenging for us...I have had 4 out of the six of us sick these last few days and I am not sure what they have. At first we thought it was food related, but now we think it might be some kind of lovely tummy bug. Anyway, it has not been fun for those who are sick. Mike, who NEVER gets sick, has really been feeling bad and not able to work which is really bothering him. He has lots of days off for the holidays and now to be missing work with sickness is just really frustrating and stressful for him. Hopefully he will get better soon. I feel so bad for him. I am trying to take care of him with a servant's heart...and also trying to stay away(far away) because we don't need both parents sick! I am surprised that I have not gotten sick and I keep thinking it is going to hit me at any minute...but so far, I have not and I know it is the kindness of God. So, could you pray for us during this time of illness? Thanks so much!

I pray you all have a healthy and blessed 2010!

A New Year

2010-01-04T12:51:00.004-06:00

It is hard to believe it is 2010...I just got good at writing 2009 and now I have to change again!

There is a lot to look forward to in this new year. I pray that God will grow me during this year to be more like His Son. I am praying that:

I will face difficulties and challenges joyfully, knowing that the end result is God working in my heart.

I will not try to get out from under the pressure of a trial, but persevere in it to see God working and conforming me.

I will have a high true view of God that stems from who He says He is in His Word...not who I or anyone else says He is.

I will be constantly praising Him for all the good things He has done and is doing in my family and the world around me.

I will be a good and wise steward of what the Lord has given us...I failed in this area many times in the past!

I will be an encourager in my home to my husband and my children.

I would serve others with gladness...knowing that I am serving the Lord as I do this.

I would joyfully and gratefully accept the stage of life we are in... which involves letting our oldest go to college next fall. I am doing much better with this as time goes by! But, please pray for me!

I would show compassion and grace to others as I have been shown great grace throughout my whole life.

I would not allow selfish motives or any ungodly motives to spur me to good deeds...that it would be a natural outflow of my love for God.

I would seek to glorify Him in 2010.

What are your new year prayers and goals?

Time for some Green!

2009-12-27T17:22:00.007-06:00

Spicing up the new year with some peppery arugula salad. This is my favorite recipe for arugula...so tasty and fresh with the fresh squeezed lemon juice.

Ingredients

4 cups young arugula leaves
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup pine nuts,toasted
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice from 1/4 of a lemon

Directions:

Combine arugula, cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, oil, vinegar, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Juice the lemon over the salad. Toss and serve. Makes 2 large salads or 4-6 small dinner salads.

Arugula Salad ingredients and roasted Brussels sprouts:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts
3 tablespoons good olive oil
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Cut off the brown ends of the Brussels sprouts and pull off any yellow outer leaves. Mix them in a bowl with the olive oil, salt and pepper. Pour them on a sheet pan and roast for 35 to 40 minutes, until crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Shake the pan from time to time to brown the sprouts evenly. Sprinkle with more kosher salt and serve immediately.

Having fun in the kitchen!

The True Light

2009-12-23T09:56:00.006-06:00

I thoroughly enjoy the Christmas season...meditating on how God came in the flesh to rescue our souls from our sins is what Christmas means to me. To think about God's beautiful plan from start to finish is just amazing and to think that we have the story in God's Word given to us so that we can KNOW what He has done for us...it just causes my heart to worship thinking on it.

We attempt to make this season focused on Christ and His work on our behalf to our children. It takes some intentional time management and planning to make it happen. Indeed, there are so many distractions--it can be difficult at times...we keep trying, though. One of the things we do is keep our schedule free from so many *things* of the season. This allows for us to have family worship times all together-not kids scheduled out in different directions all the time in the evenings. Keeping schedules free also allows for having time to do for others, which I think should be a focus during this season. It might mean saying *no* to a *just for fun* Christmas party with friends and *yes* to volunteering at the Good Samaritan Center for the needy in our town. It may mean choosing to host a Christmas party for the residents of a nursing home and passing out cards with a Biblical message of hope instead of staying home and watching Christmas movies...it may also mean saying no to a day of shopping and yes to going to church for wonderful Biblical Christmas music. It is all about choices, isn't it?

I'm not saying that the other things are bad in and of themselves, but those perfectly fine things can rob us of the time that we could be using for more important things. So, as a family, we have to make choices on what is good or BEST for us to participate in.

This is our focus.

This does not mean that we always make the right choices, in fact, I feel the tension very much--the pull from the world. I can easily get caught up in the *things* of the season, so this is as much for me as anybody that could be reading this. For us, it just means that as a family who loves God, we are striving to be a light in a world of darkness and trying to teach our children that Christmas is not about them. Kinda backwards from what the world says...so that is where choices come in.

I don't want to be controlled or even persuaded by the world's ways...I don't want our time to be used up on things that have no meaning, and I don't want Christ's birth, life, death and resurrection to be something that sits in the background while the bright lights, fancy toys, glittering decor, and *me* mentality floods over our hearts and causes our hearts to worship something other than Christ. It happens. It happens in well meaning Christian homes...I pray that this season will be one that you all relish in what Christ has done....how God made a way for us to love Him and be with Him forever...that the babe born so long ago still gives hope and healing to a world living in darkness. Christ is sufficient...His Word is all together true...He is the true light of the world. Let's not allow the other bright lights to hinder our worship of the One True Light.

John 8:12 Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

Merry Christmas!

Mrs. U's Cranberry Cider

2009-12-19T11:58:00.006-06:00

Mmmmm...this makes the most delicious cider and it makes my house smell so good. Thank you, Mrs. U, for sharing such a wonderful recipe with me. We will be enjoying this during the Christmas week.

Mrs. U's Cranberry Cider

2 quarts apple cider
6 cups cranberry juice
1/4 c packed brown sugar
4 cinnamon sticks
1 1/2 tsp whole cloves
1 lemon, thinly sliced

Heat, then remove pieces, simmer on low or in crock pot.

The cider would be really good with these gingerbread scones.

A Wonderful Evening....

2009-12-17T17:05:00.003-06:00

1)Cold outside
2)Fire going
3)Everyone home
4)Homemade pizzas
5)Christmas tree lit
6)All of the Christmas gifts bought and wrapped
7)Movie night:

Some Christmas Favorites

2009-12-16T08:35:00.015-06:00

Our home at Christmas time...

Some Christmas Traditions found here.

Come see my favorite ornaments...these were new last year.

Here are the books we read at Christmas time.

I am not a big Gaither fan...just not my preference...but this always leaves me speechless!

Last but not least, the JOY of Christmas.

Sweet Aroma

2009-11-24T11:46:00.005-06:00

Mmmmmmm...this has been burning in my kitchen the last few days and it smells so good! I will be starting to prepare our Thanksgiving feast soon, so this candle will be burning as I prepare. Such a nice aroma!

My prayer lately has been that I would have a servant's heart during this season as well as be focused on who God is. When I remind myself of truths from His Word, I try to remain steadfast in my desire to serve others and serve God. I have a tendency to allow the stress of the busy days to steal my joy. I can easily become overwhelmed with all the things that need to be done...and I can easily be distracted by all of the glittery and shiny *things* that our world has on display during this over commercialized time of the year.

My thoughts lately have been centered around these truths:

* God is all wise, all powerful, and all good...no majesty in this world can compare.

* He is the giver of all good and perfect gifts.

* He is unchangeable...there is no variation in His character or His glory.

* He is more beautiful and satisfying that any treasure or pleasure in this world.

* He is worthy of continual praise from my lips and heart...Thanksgiving everyday!

As this candle glows and gives a beautiful sweet aroma, may it remind me that what is in my heart and what comes out of my mouth in praise should be a pleasant aroma to God...always giving thanks, always treasuring Him above all, and always seeking Him as the one true Savior of my soul.

Pumpkin is a Superfood... So Enjoy!

2009-11-21T21:13:00.012-06:00

I love pumpkin this time of year. It seems to be a favorite seasonal type food, but did you know we should be eating pumpkin all year around? It is very high in beta carotene as well as many other vitamins and nutrients. I have been working on finding some good ways to eat more pumpkin. Here are 2 recipes that are tried and true. Plus, they are easy! My kids gobble these muffins up...for breakfast, for snacks, etc. They are low in fat, but it does have sugar. So, consider it a treat with some healthy benefits!

Pumpkin Muffins

1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin (I like Libby's)
About 1/3 cup or a little more of water to help it mix...I just kinda estimate.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or more for extra spice!)
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup of chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 12 cup muffin pan or line with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, pumpkin, water, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves until smooth. Add the walnuts. Spoon equal amounts of batter into the prepared muffin cups.
3. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes in the preheated oven, until a toothpick inserted in the center of one comes out clean.

Mushroom Pumpkin Soup

1/2 pound of mushrooms
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 TBSP oil or butter
2 TBSP flour
1 TBSP curry powder
3 cups vegetable broth
1 can pumpkin
1 TBSP honey
dash of nutmeg
salt to taste
1 cup of evaporated milk
optional sour cream or plain yogurt topping

Saute mushrooms and onion in oil. Add flour and curry and stir, gradually adding broth. Add all but the milk and cook, stirring for 10-15 minutes. Add milk and heat through without boiling.

Go here to read why pumpkins are so so good for you!

Making Memories

2009-11-15T19:45:00.006-06:00

We recently made our weekly trip to the library to check out some books for the younger children. I love books of all kinds and especially love to find and read good children's books that contain both thoughtfulness and gorgeous illustrations...it must be the elementary school teacher in me. After all, my favorite college class was Children's Literature. That is what I miss most about teaching school...access to so many books!

I found a wonderful book on our recent library trip and I just had to share it with you. What caught my attention at first was the beautiful cover. It has a grandpa sitting in a rocking chair with a young boy sitting on his lap. It reminded me of my dad (my children's grandpa) and I immediately sat down to read it. I know since he recently passed away my kids will not have too many memories with him, especially my younger ones, but I hope to tell them a lot about him, so they can know and remember his life.

The book is called Making Memories written by Janette Oke and illustrated by Cheri Bladholm. I must, first of all, give the illustrator praise for capturing such sweet and breathtaking works of artistry that show so vividly the loving and kind expressions on the boy and grandpa's face. It made me want to join them in the conversation and be right there with them on that porch.

The book begins with the boy asking grandpa, "How do you make memories?" The grandfather gives a rich and descriptive explanation from someone who has enjoyed a blessed life with wonderful memories...by teaching the young boy along the way how to pay attention and appreciate all of God's wonderful gifts....small and big. From a green frog with funny spots on his back to the rich spicy aroma of grandma's apple pie...to the great blessing of hearing a laugh from his baby brother--all are gifts from God and are memories in the making.

This book beautifully celebrates family, tender moments, simple things of life, and the realization that God has already given even a young boy many memories of his own. This book is a treasure!

Sovereign and Gracious

2009-11-12T07:55:00.003-06:00

We make decisions everyday of our life that have eternal consequences...and left on our own, without a kind and gracious God intervening into our depraved hearts, we would choose wrong every time.

~My summary of a quote that shows a high view of God and His sovereignty over salvation.

Happy Birthday to the Man I Married!

2009-11-02T15:57:00.005-06:00

It is Mike's birthday today and I hope he has a special day. It will be interesting to see how it all works out...considering that we have a pretty "scheduled out" day. It is not very often that I am able to get together with other women for a lunch out, but today I was blessed to be able to do this...such a sweet time of fellowship and way to celebrate a wonderful sister in Christ. I enjoyed this time so much! Later today we have soccer practice for Abigail and an orchestra practice tonight for Gracie...and somewhere in between I will prepare an easy(but special--thank you Fresh Market!) birthday meal for my sweet, sweet husband and then dinner sometime in between activities. Interesting, busy....but always fun!

I never want to miss an opportunity to tell my husband how much I love him and how much he means to me...God has been so good to me by blessing me with him...God has blessed our relationship greatly and I know that it is a gift from God who is the giver of all good and perfect gifts! Mike is so kind and patient with me...which takes a lot of patience, I'm sure. Even lately I have struggled with how to be the right kind of wife and how to be a blessing to him...some days I feel more like a burden instead of a blessing. I guess you could say I am high maintenance some days and I let sinful thoughts get the best of me and that carries over into our relationship. Thankfully I am married to a godly man who loves me...understands me...and forgives me. I am blessed beyond measure.

Our dinner will consist of:

Spinach salad with berries and raspberry vinaigrette
Parmesan Breaded Tilapia (Fresh Market)
Roasted Asparagus
Brown Rice Pilaf
Garlic Knots
And...a sinfully white cake for dessert with cocoa chai tea.

To My Husband:

Through the years
I've watched you grow in the Lord,
And it has caused me
To grow, too--
In respect...admiration
...and love for you.

I'm praying the Lord will continue
His wonderful work in you...
And carry out every special plan
He has for your life-
A life I am more thankful
For each year!

With All My Love...

(By Dayspring cards)

Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. Jeremiah 17:7

Sweet Potato, Lentil, and Kale Soup

2009-10-26T10:30:00.002-05:00

This is my new favorite fall *perfect soup*! When I first got the recipe, I wasn't sure about this combo of ingredients, but it works! Not only does it work, but it is delicious and super healthy, loaded with superfoods! Get ready for a lot of chopping, but it will be worth it.

Sweet Potato, Lentil, and Kale Soup

1 cup dry lentils...can use french green, red, or brown.
6 cups of organic vegetable broth(or cooking liquid of your choice)
1 onion, chopped
A few cloves of garlic, smashed and sliced
3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut up into bite size pieces
1 bunch of kale, stripped off of stems and torn into pieces
1 splash of olive oil
1 TBSP of curry powder(or to taste)

Splash a small amount of olive oil into a large pot and saute onion for a few minutes. Then add garlic for just a few minutes...don't burn the garlic. Add everything else except the kale and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes. Add kale and simmer for 15 more minutes. Serve with crusty bread or brown rice. Enjoy!

With All of my Love and Respect, Dad.

2009-10-19T19:35:00.005-05:00

I was not really meaning to take a blogging break, but sometimes life hits hard and other things become much more important and require my time...such has been these last few weeks.

First of all, thank you so much for the sweet comments on my facebook, cards, and emails. Sometimes, just knowing someone is praying out there is so encouraging and comforting during difficult days. As some of you know, my dad went home to be with the Lord recently. He has been ill for a while and just could not get over the pneumonia that he suffered with. His body became weak and he quit eating. We have known for a while that his condition would only get worse with alzheimers and heart disease so really the grieving and difficult days began a while back. It has been hard watching him gradually progress to where he hardly ever recognized us. But, it was always a treat when the look in his eye or the expression on his face showed us that he did recall and knew that we loved him. Through the difficult days, there were some really sweet moments to cherish and I will remember those times the most.

One very vivid memory for me was watching my mom love and take care of my dad...endlessly...day after day...through all the yucky things involved with this disease to the sweet and tender moments of seeing them hold hands. She has been a great example to me of patience, graciousness, and unconditional love. She received no medal of honor at his death nor was she recognized as someone who is worthy of praise, but we all saw and observed and learned. How precious that is to me. I overheard her say to someone during his dying days, "This is what you do when you love someone". And, it is. Such a true and profound statement.

This picture of love spoke volumes to me.

How are you doing in the area of truly loving others? What sacrifice are you making in your life for the well being of someone else? How do you measure up to REALLY putting others before yourself?

Me--not so good. But, I am learning. The Lord is so kind and patient with me and for that I am very thankful.

My dad---A humble soldier...a steady strength...a loving husband and father...one to be remembered with all of my love and respect.

Sunrise and Reality Check

2009-10-07T07:08:00.004-05:00

I awoke early this morning....and headed out into the cold darkness. I love running in the early hours of the morning. Such peaceful quietness...no cars, very few house lights on, and no people. Nice. I was running along, with extra energy and I noticed the tension in my shoulders and neck started melting away. I was relaxed...and I kept going, pushing myself to a comfortable pace to endure the long run. My heart was beating fast and my pace was picking up. It felt good. I remembered then why I have love running so much! I was anticipating the sunrise that I knew would be visible in the next half hour or so...what a morning and I was getting to enjoy it.

Then I felt that twinge of pain in my lower abdomen and hip...and reality hit hard. I have not been running for 4 months! Wow! I have missed it.

But, I did manage to run 3 miles with hills and walk one mile at the end.

And...I am feeling good.

Make Our Path Clear, Lord.

2009-09-25T09:58:00.008-05:00

Things are going better with my dad...he began to eat some a couple of days ago. The swallowing issue, we think, was from some meds he was on or a possible small stroke. The pneumonia is better and he is recovering from that, but still weak. We are very thankful because we know pneumonia can be life threatening for someone his age and in his condition. Now he is back in the health facility and seems to be doing fairly well. This is all very hard on my mom, so continue to pray for her. My brother, who is a doctor, has been here from North Carolina and he will be leaving on Saturday. He is such a help during these difficult days. Thank you so much for your prayers and encouraging comments.

On a lighter note, Gracie and I were able to visit Union University last weekend for their preview day for prospective students. At first Gracie was somewhat disappointed after visiting Samford...mainly because Samford has such a beautiful historical campus and she loves that. But, after visiting with the professors at Union and meeting students, we love that place! It is truly a unique Christ centered school. We saw evidence of that in so many ways. I can't really express all that we learned while there, but there were so many things we liked about it...from the in depth overview of the English and Literature department...to the secret church service they were having one evening to experience what it would be like to worship in secret trying to avoid persecution and danger--it all was so good. I really enjoyed chapel. It was GO week while we were there which stands for Global Outreach, so we were able to see firsthand the emphasis on missions. Gracie is really interested in going on international mission trips while in college, so this was excellent! And...the kids...I was so impressed with the young women we met and what Gracie told me about them. She was able to spend the night with some girls and learned so much about their walk with Christ, how they handle relationships with young men, and their convictions. We were so happy about what we learned from them! What wonderful role models for Gracie!

We are excited to see how God provides and we are praying that He will make our paths clear as we seek His will for Gracie! This is an exciting time.

Gracie's last time to go with us on our September beach trip...next fall she will be in college! Hard to believe!

Another fun thing about visiting Union was meeting Kelly! We have been blogging friends since we began blogging...about three years ago. We have kept in touch, done a bible study together, and exchanged book recommendations. She is such a joy. Now we are real friends since we have met face to face! Thank you, Kelly, for taking care of me while I was there. Kelly was so sweet to take me out to dinner, show me around Jackson, and tell me all about the churches there. It was such a helpful and fun evening. Kelly is such a strong and God fearing woman. I learned so much from talking with her. She has been fighting breast cancer this last year and is now going through radiation. But, the Lord has been faithful to her and always with her...she testified to that. Her faithfulness is a great example to me. Her inner and outer beauty was evident as she spoke about what the Lord has been teaching her through this trial. Such wisdom!

God's Goodness

2009-09-21T15:54:00.008-05:00

I am guilty of neglecting my blog a little lately...not really intentionally, but forced to based on the busy days we have been having. September has been a super busy month for us so far, but we have gotten a lot accomplished. I have also been encountering a few trials of sorts that God is teaching/growing me as I trust him through the questions and unknowns. Once again, I must publicly testify to the goodness of God even through my *bad* days. He is all wise...all powerful...and all good. In other words, He knows what do, is powerful enough to do it, and everything He does is always good. How can we not trust a God like that? I am in good hands...and I realize that. God continually pours out His grace and mercy on me. Considering that He is all wise, all powerful, and all good, most days I wonder why He would care about me so much. But, His word says He does and that is so comforting.

I will share about one of my tough times and ask you to pray. My dad is not doing well at all and he seems to be deteriorating in his health even today. He has suffered with Alzheimers for about 10 years now. The process has been hard for all of us. My mother has taken care of him for years and she has managed all of that beautifully, but in the last few months could not physically do it anymore(understandably so). He has been in a nursing facility in a special alzheimers ward and has done very well there. We have been so blessed that his demeanor had not progressed to being violent or aggressive towards others...that commonly happens. He has been pretty happy there and of course my mom has been there everyday. I live in the same town as they do so that has been a blessing that I can honor them by being supportive and encouraging and seeing them often...but with my busy household, sometimes I feel that I have not done enough.

Last week he had a turn for the worse and became violent towards some nurse's aids. He was medicated and moved to a different facility where they could monitor him and his meds and see what would work best for him...while there he contracted pneumonia. He is very weak. In one week's time, he has gone from walking and eating fine to not being able to walk and not swallowing. My mom and brother were able to give him some liquids through a straw yesterday, but still it is not looking good at this point. We are praying that he will regain his strength and be able to eat again, but we really do not know if that will happen. So, please pray. I trust in God's sovereignty and know that we will all face the end of our life at some point...it will happen, but that does not take away from the sadness of it. The worse part for me is seeing my mom going through this. They have been married for over 55 years and this is just hard. He was awake a little today and puckered up his lips...my mom thought that was so funny...he was wanting a kiss. Sweet moments to savor.

Sorry for all the mispelled words...I just went back, reread, and corrected.

Enjoying the Hammock at Samford University

2009-09-07T22:52:00.000-05:00

Visiting colleges has begun!

What's On Our Back To School Book Shelves

2009-08-31T14:49:00.021-05:00

Grade 12

Apologia Physics
A Beka American National Government with supplemental historical biographies
A Beka Consumer Math
Rosetta Stone Spanish 4 (This is her 4th year of Spanish)
A Beka English
For Such a Time as This World Literature and writing course
Scripture Memory

Grade 9

A Beka Physical science
A Beka Algebra 1
Hebrew History
A Beka World Geography
A Beka English Grammar
Scripture Memory

All of these course are with the dvd instruction. We needed this for this year.

Grade 1- This seems like a lot, but it really isn't. We only do science and history 2 days a week and art once a week, although we have other crafts and art we do during afternoons. Her seatwork is page assignments that I give her to do while I am working with JH. She does these each day independently of me.

Sing Spell Read and Write(Phonics, language arts, spelling)...finishing up from last year. We have LOVED this! I will be using it with my younger one, too!
Saxon Math 2
A Beka Discovering God's World (science)
A Beka My World, My America (History/Geography)
A Beka Art Projects Grade 1
A Beka Letters and Sounds 1 (seatwork)
A Beka spelling (seatwork on some days, instruction on some days...weekly spelling tests)
A Reason For Handwriting grade 1 (seatwork)
A Beka Community Helpers activity book

When we finish Sing Spell Read and Write, I am going to start her in Shurley grammar, probably before Christmas. Also I will be adding Apologia Exploring Creation with Astronomy.

Preschool

Science and History with Evie. (2 days a week)
A Beka ABC-123
A Beka Readiness Skills
Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons (going through this slowly)
Linking cubes, puzzles, lots of floor play, arts and crafts, pattern blocks, and lots of library books!

Also, this wonderful book for morning time theology....after going through a lot of it, it is something every Christian home needs. I can't say that enough...Please read this to your children! Every section we have read, I put that book down with more awe towards God and more of an attitude of worship in my heart. The book teaches a high view of God and makes everyone realize how truly great God is!

Worthy of Your Time...

2009-08-29T11:37:00.009-05:00

If you struggle with your house always being perfectly clean and organized, read this for some encouragement. It was so refreshing to read...and the funny thing is, right after I finished reading it, someone was knocking on our door. It was Mike's cousin and her husband who had to come to our town and just stopped by to say hello and visit with us. I was in my running attire...not showered...and the house, well, let's just say it looked lovingly lived in. I am a perfectionist and struggle with this, knowing that the sin of pride is at the root of it...anyway, I was so happy to see them and I survived! God grows me through these kinds of things!

This one is a clip from Joshua Harris on accepting reproof...excellent.

Principle versus preference...a must read! Very thoughtful and Biblical.

And, last but not least, this is a book we are reading and putting into practice. It is so so good. If you have children it is excellent. It is great for father's to read for their daughter's benefit, but it is also good exhortation on how to raise godly young men. We highly recommend it.

Homeschool Perspective from Our Oldest Child

2009-08-18T21:25:00.005-05:00

This was written by our oldest child, Gracie. I asked her to respond to Kathy's question about how my older children adjusted going from school to homeschool. She said she couldn't really remember a lot of how she felt, but had this to say:

I can only vaguely remember my thoughts when we started homeschooling eight years ago. I remember being excited, but not really knowing what to expect. I remember my friends thinking it was so "cool" that I was going to get to do school at home. That year was definitely a year of transitions for us: we started home schooling, we started going to a different church, and Mom was pregnant with Evie. For that reason, I think our first year of home schooling was probably the most difficult. Not only were we not seeing our friends at school, we weren't seeing them at church either. Thankfully, we were able to make friends at our new church quickly. And for me, I have never really regretted the "lack of socialization". I love spending time with my friends, but I don't find it necessary to see them everyday. Since that day we started homeschooling, I do know that I have never wished that my parents had made a different decision. Even on the rough and challenging days, I don't remember ever, in these eight years, thinking that I would be better off in school. I think a big part of the person am today has to do with the fact that I have been schooled at home. I have great relationships with my family. I can't imagine being in school all day, every day, missing out on all of Evie and Jack Henry's little accomplishments and successes. One of the things that I have most enjoyed about homeschooling is my classes. I love that the science curriculum we have used all through my high school years has taught me how to think, not what to think. I am so thankful that even my math classes have been from a Biblical perspective. That is something I would have never had a public high school. I don't know that I would be nearly as confident in what I believe and why I believe it if I had been educated differently.

-Gracie, Senior in High School

Back To School....Already?

2009-08-12T09:00:00.005-05:00

The summer has brushed by very quickly. It truly is not over for us, but the end is close in sight. We have our annual beach trip coming up in September, so we don't officially call it Fall until we get back. We have marked the calendar for August 24 as our official first day of school. This will be our 8th year to homeschool...it seems just yesterday when we ventured out into the unknowns of homeschooling...leaving the public schools behind for more focused Christian learning. I spent a lot of time that summer getting our *school room* all ready. I was an Elementary Ed teacher before children, so I when I began homeschooling I was all about the room, the bulletin boards, reciting and memorizing, the books, the pledge, the Bible drills, the cute back to school clothes, recess and PE! Wow, I was one busy mommy. Plus, add on to all of that I was expecting baby number 3 and was so sick...I'm not talking about the all day nausea, which is terrible in itself...I am talking about throwing up 12 times in three hours while trying to teach history to my concerned 2nd and 5th grade daughters! Challenging, yes...but right for us, absolutely. Nothing felt more right to me. I loved my children dearly and homeschooling was the natural best thing for them and me.

Now, that our family has grown, we no longer have the elaborate school room...it has been replaced with an all out boy cave of a bedroom. But, I wouldn't change that for anything. We don't always say the pledge and somedays we don't recite the books of the Bible. Ahhh...things have changed over the years...we are much more relaxed and realize that learning happens in every room of the house. And cute bulletin boards for the different seasons of the year are nice, but not the necessity that I thought they once were. Am I still structured and organized....oh, YES! I have to be that way...and academics is VERY important. But, true joy has come from just enjoying these days...getting past the superficial ideas of homeschooling and really getting to the heart of the matter.

Homeschooling has taught me so much...not only have I learned things I never really learned in school...like basic history facts, etc. But, The Lord has taught me how selfish I was and am! One of the things that held us back from homeschooling in those early years was the fear of man(what people would think) and me being able to give up my *me* time and our *couple* time. When my older 2 girls were in school(early on) I had lunch with my sweet husband at least once a week out at a restaurant...I had regular manicures and pedicures...had plenty of time for late morning runs and even some trips to the gym. I had lots of time to run to the mall and specialty shops to shop for clothing for me and my girls...plus ladies lunch and time with friends. Did I have to give up all of that...no, not all of it, but things have changed a lot. God was teaching me through this transition...so much. God was so kind to not reveal all of my sinful ways at once, though...but through those early days of homeschooling, I was made more aware of the sinful desires of my heart.

God gave me a desire for my children, though, for which I am so thankful...to guide them in the things of the Lord...to show them how to love God with all of their heart, mind, and strength. I was/am not always a good example of showing them how to do this, but through us learning His Word, we grew in this together. God so graciously gave me a desire to want to know my children's hearts and that takes time and initiative on my part. God showed me that this time was precious and I must make the most of it...for their benefit.

There is still a lot for me to learn. Everyday.

I am very thankful for another year of homeschooling. My prayer is that we all will grow in His grace and knowledge so that we can be pleasing to Him and glorify Him through these sweet days.

Songs of The Lukewarm Church

2009-08-08T22:42:00.002-05:00

Have you ever been tempted (in your heart attitude) to sing songs like this?

From A Friend's Blog:

Songs of the Lukewarm church:

1. Blest Be The Tie That Doesn't Cramp My Style
2. Pillow of Ages, Fluffed for Me
3. I Surrender Some
4. I'm Fairly Certain That My Redeemer Lives
5. Sit Up, Sit Up For Jesus
6. Take My Life and Let Me Be
7. What An Acquaintance We Have In Jesus
8. Where He Leads Me, I Will Consider Following
9. He's Quite a Bit To Me
10. Oh, How I Like Jesus
11. Fill My Spoon, Lord
12. It Is My Secret What God Can Do

(the Way of the Master, a ministry of Living Waters Publications)

Morning Theology

2009-08-04T18:29:00.005-05:00

I am so excited about a new book that we are going to read through this year! It is called Big Truths For Young Hearts by Bruce Ware. One of his daughters, Rachel, wanted to name the book *Bedside Theology* because that is what it was--bedside discussions over several of their growing up years. CJ Mahaney says about the book:"Imagine a respected theologian devoting himself to training a new generation of pastors and scholars in the seminary classroom. Now imagine him driving home at night to teach that profound theology in simple terms to his children at their bedsides. Now imagine this father compiling those bedtime conversations into a book available to pastors, parents, and children alike. Imagine no more. My friend Dr. Bruce Ware has done it. "

My plan is to read a short section each morning during or after breakfast before we begin our school day...to all of the children...yes, all of them. I think it can be used for all ages. There are many things that young children can understand from it as well as much for my older ones to learn and be reminded of. Also, Mike may use it some for family worship time when he teaches them. I have read through some of it already and it is going to be a treasure.

Colleges and Your Help!

2009-07-31T11:29:00.015-05:00

After researching colleges for about 4 years, here we are finalizing transcripts, filling out applications and seeking God's plan for our almost senior in high school! How time flies!!! We have narrowed our search to a few colleges and I would love input from some of you. If you have any experience with the schools, I'd love to hear about it. Also, any pros or cons that you might know of pertaining to any of these colleges would be helpful. Even if you live in the town of one of these, I would love to hear about the city/town....what is the size, what are the churches like, if there is a Target and Starbucks...you know the main college necessities! We would also like to know what kind of kids are at these schools...character, service type emphasis, missions minded, a passion for God, etc. If you have any knowledge or experience with the school, we would love to know what you think! If you don't mind you can leave comments or email me at lifesongkim@gmail.com. (update...I had a typo on my email address...this one is right)

This is such a major decision for our oldest and one we do not take lightly at all...well, I guess that is how we are about everything decision, but this one especially. This is possibly where she will meet her future husband...This is where she will be discipled and taught so much about God and life...This is where she could spend the next 4 years and we want it to be the best possible place for her to live, grow, serve, and attend a Biblically sound church. All of these things are SO important to us! Oh, and also the academics...that is important, too.

We are planning which schools to visit now and would appreciate any feedback from you! Thank you so much!

Here are the schools we are considering at this point:

Bryan College
Cedarville University
Master's College
Union University
John Brown University
Samford University
Moody Bible Institute
Patrick Henry College

Directions For Wives

2009-07-28T13:40:00.002-05:00

From John MacArthur's Grace To You:

One of the most explicit passages of Scripture that outlines God's standard for marriage is Ephesians 5:22-33. Wives often bear the brunt of that section, but the majority of the passage deals with the husband's attitude toward and responsibilities for his wife. Nonetheless, here's the wife's responsibility before the Lord:

Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything (vv. 22-24).

Submission in no way implies a difference in essence or worth; it does refer, however, to a willing submission of oneself. Wives, submission is to be your voluntary response to God's will--it's a willingness to give up your rights to other believers in general and ordained authority in particular, in this case your own husband.

Husbands aren't to treat their wives like slaves, barking commands at them; they are to treat their wives as equals, assuming their God-given responsibility of caring, protecting, and providing for them.

Likewise wives fulfill their God-given responsibility when they submit willingly to their own husbands. That reflects not only the depth of intimacy and vitality in their relationship, but also the sense of ownership a wife has for her husband.

Keep in mind that the wife's submission requires intelligent participation: "Mere listless, thoughtless subjection is not desirable if ever possible. The quick wit, the clear moral discernment, the fine instincts of a wife make of her a counselor whose influence is invaluable and almost unbounded" (Charles R. Erdman, The Epistles of Paul to the Colossians and to Philemon [Philadelphia: Westminster, 1966], 103).

Elisabeth Elliot, writing on "The Essence of Femininity," offers a fitting summary of God's ideal for wives:

Unlike Eve, whose response to God was calculating and self-serving, the virgin Mary's answer holds no hesitation about risks or losses or the interruption of her own plans. It is an utter and unconditional self-giving: "I am the Lord's servant ... May it be to me as you have said" (Luke 1:38). This is what I understand to be the essence of femininity. It means surrender.

Think of a bride. She surrenders her independence, her name, her destiny, her will, herself to the bridegroom in marriage ... The gentle and quiet spirit of which Peter speaks, calling it "of great worth in God's sight" (1 Peter 3:4), is the true femininity, which found its epitome in Mary (John Piper, Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood [Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway, 1991], 398, 532, emphasis added).

Stuffed Red Bell Peppers

2009-07-21T15:16:00.007-05:00

My mom used to make stuffed bell peppers and I have to admit, it was one of my favorite meals growing up...I loved the bell pepper flavor with the ground beef, tomato sauce and tons of cheese. Very tasty...but not too healthy. I recently found a variation of a stuffed bell pepper recipe with tons of flavor and none of the fat from the greasy meats and cheese. I'm a big fan of this recipe...it is delicious and healthy. Red bell peppers are loaded with nutrition and so pretty after they are baked, so I like to use them...but any color will work for this recipe.

This recipe is from my book: Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease by Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., MD.

4 bell peppers
2 medium onions, chopped
3 large garlic cloves, chopped
2 cups corn, fresh or frozen works great
2 cups cooked brown rice...I buy Bird Eye frozen for convenience.
2 medium tomatoes, chopped or if I don't have any fresh tomatoes on hand, 1 can diced tomatoes works fine.
1 TBSP fresh lemon juice and zest
1 TBSP balsamic vinegar
pepper to taste

1)Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds. Set peppers aside.

2)Stir fry onions in a little water over medium heat until translucent.

3)Add garlic and continue stir frying 2-3 minutes, add more water if needed.

4)Add corn and cook 2 minutes more.

5)Add rice,tomatoes,lemon juice,zest,vinegar, and pepper. Stir to heat through.

6)Fill pepper halves with vegetable mixture, pressing into corners of peppers and piling high. I like to add some fresh or dried parsley to the top for color.

7)Cover with aluminum foil and bake about 30-40 minutes...the recipe says 25 minutes, but a little longer makes sure the pepper is cooked through and tender.

Patio Dining

2009-07-18T09:28:00.006-05:00

The weather is so gorgeous here right now. The temperatures are much cooler than usual, so we are enjoying being outdoors by the pool, dining outdoors, and taking it all in while we can. We had breakfast by the pool this morning. It was so nice! Tonight we are grilling out and this is on the menu...grilled vegetable kabobs. I love grilled vegetables about as much as I love roasted vegetables.

Yellow summer squash
Zuchinni
Red Onion
Cherry Tomatoes
Portabella mushrooms
Red and Green Peppers

Toss chunks of vegetables in fresh squeezed lemon juice, a little balsamic vinegar, a touch of olive oil spray, and chopped fresh thyme and basil. Put on bamboo or metal skewers and grill on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes.

This is how ours turned out...yummy!

Sweet and So Good!

2009-07-17T18:08:00.004-05:00

Have you ever made roasted sweet vidalia onions? They are my new favorite food and add on to other foods right now. I just peel one and cut it into wedges...then separate a little. Place on a foil lined baking sheet with just a tad of olive oil spray...no need to add any fat, I think that would take away from the wonderful flavor! I roasted mine at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes, tossing them every once in a while. They get slightly dark brown and crispy around the edges. I also read that you can roast them slowly on 300 degrees and they get sweeter the longer they roast. I may have to try that, too.

They were so good tonight. I put them on top of our whole wheat pasta with tomato and mushroom pasta sauce. Yum.

God's Goodness in the Last 21 Years

2009-07-16T13:39:00.001-05:00

Mike and I are celebrating 21 years of marriage today. I am so thankful for these years together. What a true blessing from God! I often tell Mike how God was so gracious to me in giving him to me as my husband. I won't go into details, but I will just say that I was very undeserving of such a godly man to love me! But God in His kindness has allowed me to experience such joy and love in my life. God has really blessed our marriage, also. We have been through difficult days, just like most couples, but God always brought us through those times with forgiveness and love for another. That love has grown stronger and more comfortable over the years. I love the *comfortableness* of our marriage. I just feel like I can be myself at all times...have complete down time with him and feel totally accepted and cared for. There is no one else I can be like that with. What a gift from God! Thank you God for giving me such sweet days with my wonderful husband.

21 years is a long time, but all of you know how the time seems to pass so quickly when looking back on it. That kinda makes me sad, knowing that time moves on and things change...kids grow older, family life is always changing and growing in new ways, the future is unknown...but one thing is for sure and does not change--God. He has been the One constant in my life and I am so thankful to be able to say that my hope is in Him. I want to treasure these days as gifts from God...loving my husband, caring for and loving my children, and seeing the simple things in life as the best things.

I am resting in His grace today...rejoicing in my marriage, and seeing His hand in all things.

Our Adoption Journey

2009-07-09T09:53:00.005-05:00

I have received quite a few emails asking about our adoption and I appreciate each one of you thinking of us and asking about us...and most of all for your prayers. Many have asked about my adoption blog and why it has been made private. The reason for that is there has just not been anything to post on lately. The wait continues on and we stand at a crossroads of sorts praying about what this means for our family.

As most of you know, when we began the process of international adoption from China, the wait was 12 months for a referral. It seems as soon as our paperwork logged into China(9-2-06) the wait started growing...first it was 14-16 months...then 18 months...then 24 months...all of that was fine and we still were willing to wait. During that time we thought for sure the wait issues would get worked out and would get back down to the normal 12-18 month wait. The wait has always fluctuated and we just saw this as one of those times where it would get back and we would receive a referral in the coming months. Not so. The wait has not shortened...but has grown longer and continues to do so.

We prayed so much about switching to special needs...but could not do it. I admire so much those of you who have adopted a special needs child. I know it takes a very special family to do that. We are not that family. Both Mike and I felt that was not in the best interest of our family. I have aging parents with lots of needs right now...we have 4 other children who we are homeschooling...the unknowns of special needs were a bit frightening to us(emotionally, financially, and just practically on a daily basis being able to so what that child would need) and we just do not think it was for us. As sad as that is, it is the truth. I know adopting a special needs child is not for everybody and as we prayed and researched it, we knew this was not God's plan for us.

Right now, I believe those who have March 2006 log in dates are receiving, or have received, referrals. It is taking about 6 months to get through one month of referral dates at the rate it is moving right now(so slow)...so that means with us being 6 months behind where they are right now, it could be possibly 36 more months for us. That would be a 6 year wait-total.

We are not withdrawing our paperwork or anything drastic like that...but we are of the mindset right now, that we may not possibly be able do this afterall. Sad, yes. But, God has been so kind to give us contentment in this. I can not explain it in human capabilities...because with as excited as we were to do this in the beginning, I never would have thought that I would or could give up on such a sweet dream of mine. My mind was set on doing this and I could not wait to have my daughter in my arms. God's grace covers all of that---somehow. This is not me, but the Lord working in my heart. In my human selfishness, I would be kicking and screaming...not willing to let go. But, God in His kindness, has given Mike and I both a trust in His sovereignty through our disappointment.

Although no final decision has been made, this is where we are. If it takes 2-3 more years, we will probably not follow through with the adoption. If the wait shortens, we will pray about what we should do at that point. As of right now, there are no signs of the wait getting any shorter. So, that may be our answer.

Thank you so much for your prayers. I began this blog when we started the adoption process...and since then this blog has come to mean so much to me...a place where I can share what the Lord has been teaching me and working on my heart about. It is so much more than a family journal or a way to write about the adoption. It has been a spiritual journey for me. I have learned so much from so many of you...and have been encouraged greatly through many of your sweet words. Thank you so much for that!

Just please continue to pray for us...that we would KNOW how to proceed and that we would have God's wisdom as we seek to glorify Him above all.

Thankful for a Safe Return From Honduras!

2009-07-08T08:45:00.001-05:00

Some children from Honduras.

Gracie and a new friend...

We are so thankful to have Gracie back home....but disappointed that they could not stay for the duration of their trip. She has been in Honduras for a short term mission trip and while they were there the president was overthrown and some violence broke out, mainly in the capital of Honduras. The group was about 2 hours away from the capital and were in a very safe area. But, when they found out the president was coming back and there could be some problems getting out of Honduras, they decided to come home early. I know it was a difficult decision. God was so kind to allow them to get so San Pedro Sula without any trouble and then safely fly home. She is home now and we are very thankful. I know that the adults who went with them were very cautious and did what was best. I am so thankful for that. They were in good hands and God provided for them! Gracie is a little disappointed that the trip she has been waiting on for so long ended early, but we also know that God has a plan in all of this. We are very glad that so many people heard the gospel in such a short amount of time. With all that was going on, the children in the area were let out of school, so they had many more children to minister to than expected. So even though the trip was shorter than planned, many children heard the gospel. That is a blessing!

A Place Called Grace

2009-07-01T13:58:00.004-05:00

Thankfully, that is where I find myself these days...in the great grip of HIS GRACE. His sovereign grace over my life is so evident. Especially on the days when I look at my sinful heart and see the dark ugliness of it. I see my ugliness and I see His beautiful grace. Even a sweet smile on my face can not cover the seriousness of my sin. I may look to have a calm and peaceful appearance, but on the inside there a raging battle going on...The battle that sometimes I forget has already been won. I want to be a godly woman who truly loves others and wants to live 100% for Him while serving my family with no reservations, looking lovingly at my husband and only having wonderful thoughts of him, being totally submissive to him as he leads our family, doing what pleases him instead of what pleases myself, caring for my children with the most tender hands and sweet words, showing hospitality often with no pride of caring what others think, living day by day with little worry or fretting...but my heart is utterly selfish...without God's sweet intervention of grace I would be losing the battle.

Without God's safe place of grace in my life, I would be striving in my own strength to be the woman I could NEVER be on my own. I would be losing the battle. Everyday, I would be losing it in my own strength. But that is not all...I would be loving the world and seeking to be awed by it. I would seek pleasure from things that glittered and sparkled. I would be an adulteress wanting the attention of all who would give it to me. I would seek self glorification and be unhappy unless I was highly esteemed by others. I would love the darkness and be satisfied staying in it. I would be a lover of self and a hater of the glorious God. I would die in my darkness, thinking this world was all there was and cursing it knowing nothing in it truly satisfies. What utter depravity.

This was me...before God put me in a place called grace.

Grace--His irresistible grace. When you have seen it in your life, you can not resist it. Think about how much we need His smile on us...without it we are doomed for a life of sin. Christ's selfless sacrifice satisfied God's wrath ...His sacrifice made God's wrath turn to a smile. I am no longer a slave to the darkness of sin. His grace has made me alive in Him and I am appalled at my past sins and daily sins I still struggle with today. But, thankfully, God has forgiven me. How undeserving we are. Doesn't it just make you want to thank God?

The battle in my heart has been won by the precious blood of Christ. My feet are firm held by HIS GRACE!

What We Have Been Up To Lately

2009-06-29T16:17:00.004-05:00

1)Sending off our Abigail for a soccer camp especially for goalkeepers at the University of Dallas.

2) A fun short trip to Dallas for a wonderful time at the Great Wolf Lodge...and a last minute dinner with my wonderful friend, Amber and her precious family. Amber and I met through my blog and have found we have tons in common. It was so fun to meet her entire family(especially their new little blessing, Milla) and visit with Amber. She and I have met before, but I really enjoyed meeting everyone. We are kindred spirits. Such a sweetheart!

3) Nursing a running injury that I am pretty sure is a pelvic stress fracture...sounds fun, doesn't it? It is actually a pretty common injury for women runners. I may not be able to run again until early fall. I have been feeling better with walking lately, though...so I think it is healing. Really the only thing you can do for it is rest from the activity that caused it. I have missed running terribly and can't wait to hit that hot pavement again!

4) Sending off another child...Gracie to Honduras for a short term mission trip. She is still there and if you have been following the news, their is a lot of civil unrest there right now. The democratic president was just overthrown and there is some violent outbreaks in the capital. They have asked that all Americans stay inside houses and there is a curfew in place. Gracie's team has still been able to do most of the planned ministry and so far the area they are in is peaceful and calm. Let's pray it stays that way.

5) Lots of swimming...almost everyday. My younger ones love to swim. I have skin color that tans very easily, so I am really dark right now. (almost too dark) I have been doing some deep water running in our pool, which is a way to stay fit while healing from my injury. I really like it! I enjoy staying active, so this has been so nice!

6) A little bit of school...trying to keep Evie sharp with all her Math facts that we worked so hard on learning all year. Also, she has been reading through some A Beka readers that I bought as supplement readers. She is doing great! Such a smart girl.

7) Visiting with family. My sister lives in Alaska and she comes for a long visit every summer and stays at my parent's house. We have lots of fun catching up on eachother's family, playing games, and having family meals together. I made her my superfoods salad today for lunch and I think she liked it!

8) Celebrating Gracie's wonderful ACT score! She met her goal with this last time of testing! We are so happy for her!

That's about it for now. I hope everyone has been having a great summer!

Time Away

2009-06-18T08:50:00.007-05:00

It will be nice to have a few days staying here and visiting one of our favorite stores. And maybe even getting one of Evie's dolls' hair fixed at the salon. Mike has scheduled a two hour relaxation spa time for me while there, too. That is just like him...to do something special for me on Father's Day weekend. How sweet. I'm really looking forward to it. I think my kids will love the indoor waterpark!

We would really like to visit the Village Church while there, but I don't know if it will work out. We have enjoyed listening to some of Matt Chandler's sermons lately.

The trick will be to stay off my feet as much as possible while trying to get better from my "mystery" running injury. The gym looks great there, but I will not be able to visit it...doctor's orders! I sure miss being active...but the rest time has been good for me. I have been trying to memorize 1st John as our pastor is teaching through that book. I am not about to *waste my injury*, as my friend, Mary Ann, reminded me...it is a time to give thanks, praise Him, and see what He is trying to teach me. More patience, I am guessing. : )

Matt Chandler on Preaching the Gospel:

Death Is Not Dying

2009-06-11T10:02:00.004-05:00

I am putting this on both of my blogs, because I know some of you only read Lifesong...not my running blog...so I wanted to pass this on to as many readers as possible. You will be blessed!

As some of you know, Jane mentioned this a while back on her blog and then my pastor's wife reminded me about it...so I finally have had some time to sit down and watch this video and hear Rachel talk about how wonderful our God is...even through extreme suffering. I have wanted to watch this for a while, but life has been busy and sometimes we put off things that can be the greatest benefit and blessing. The video is worth the hour, trust me. I love reading her letters, also. She is glorifying God through extreme difficulty...knowing that God is sovereign and loving. And He is who He is, not who we want Him to be...and he does what He knows is best, not what we think He should do. Some great reminders to us all!

Hopefully you can find some time to watch it and if you are like me, get your whole family to watch it, too.

I think we should all be praying for their family as well. She is dying. She has a husband and 2 very young children who love her dearly. This must be so hard...God's grace is somehow sufficient in these times...but we still question, cry out to God, and grieve for them...I don't pretend to understand it all, but I trust the One who does...and He loves us more than we can ever know.

I'm So Unworthy....But Still You Love Me!

2009-06-10T08:46:00.003-05:00

My little ones and I have been singing this song lately...praising Him because I know how unworthy I truly am.

It's falling from the clouds
A strange and lovely sound
I hear it in the thunder and rain
It's ringing in the skies
Like cannons in the night
The music of the universe plays

You are holy great and mighty
The moon and the stars declare who You are
I'm so unworthy, but still You love me
Forever my heart will sing of how great You are

Beautiful and free
Song of Galaxies
It's reaching far beyond the milky way
Lets join in with the sound
C'mon let's sing it loud
As the music of the universe plays

All glory, honor, power is Yours amen
All glory, honor, power is Yours amen
All glory, honor, power is Yours forever amen

Monday Menus

2009-06-08T10:07:00.004-05:00

I have a running injury, so I am trying to rest as much as I can...no running this week, but hopefully I will be back to my normal self soon! Menu plans will be simple this week.

Monday--Gracie has an ACT prep class out of town...eating something quick out. (healthy salad for me)

Tuesday--Whole Wheat rigatoni with mushrooms, asparagus, and diced tomatoes in a light sauce(Similar to this recipe, but with added asparagus to last few minutes of cooking whole wheat pasta..I also am going to use organic diced tomatoes(canned), whole grain loaf

Wednesday--Youth Group for some of us...Pei Wei or Panera Bread...pizza for those at home.

Thursday--At family's Request...Poppy Seed Chicken and rice, side salads, whole wheat dinner rolls...a big salad with lots of fresh veggies and added garbanzo beans for me.

Friday--Baked Potatoes with toppings

Saturday--Soccer cookout for Abigail's team...I will eat before I go.

All Sorts of Things Are Lawful For Me, But Are All Advantageous?

2009-06-03T08:28:00.007-05:00

When making decisions, as believers, we have to evaluate how we spend our time, what activities we are going to invest our time and energy into, and how all of that can glorify God. There are things in today's world like facebook, being online, reading blogs, etc that are not specifically mentioned in scripture. How do we determine if these activities are okay to do then? God's Word has given us everything we need to live godly in this world...so it must speak indirectly to these topics.

There are benefits to having a facebook and a blog and even reading blogs...I may mention some of those in a later post. But, right now, I want us to be thinking on how we can best discern if these things are best for us during certain seasons of life.

Paul states these verses in 1 Corinthians 6:12 and 10:23 that help us with areas not mentioned directly in scripture. He says:

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything.

“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.

That is true...all sorts of things are lawful, or allowed by God...but are they the best choices? Just because it may be lawful, does that mean it is always okay or advantageous?

Here are some guidelines that Paul writes about in these verses:

All things are lawful, but all things are not helpful.

All things are lawful, but not all things build up.

All things are lawful, but I will not be enslaved to anything.

Paul found that even though it was lawful, it was best not to do certain things. It would be more advantageous (useful, prudent, profitable) for the kingdom of God in a given situation to not do some things. For example, avoiding things that might offend others, cause us or others to sin, or take the place of something more valuable we should be doing would be good reasons not to participate in something perfectly allowed by scripture. Biblical principles come into play here when the Word of God does not speak directly to something.

What about if what I am doing does not build up others or myself spiritually...maybe we need to think again if this is the best thing for us to do...especially in regards to facebook and other online time takers. I know for me, when I get on facebook to just check something very quickly, I might see that someone has posted new pictures, then I see someone that has a new interesting status...then I read someone else's wall conversation and before I know I have spent 1 hour online doing nothing to build up others or myself for God's kingdom.

"I won't be enslaved, or ruled, by anything"...this is an interesting phrase from scripture...and this can easily be applied to many areas of life. But, in regards to facebook, how many times have you gotten up in the mornings and you are tempted to go to your computer to check facebook before a quiet time with God? How many times have you allowed facebook or a blog to be in your thoughts so much that you would rather check that than do things that a keeper of the home needs to be doing? It can be enslaving.

Jay Adams has this to say about being enslaved or *ruled by* in his book, The Christian's Guide to Guidance (I highly recommend this book!):

This principle extends to matters that, becoming habitual, may take over one's life. For instance, many have become so enamored with TV that watching takes over inordinate amounts of time(the same is true of others who waste time playing computer games, surfing the net, etc). It is lawful to use the computer, or watch TV programs, but that is not true if what is done is not useful to the building up of one's life(or the life of others) or if it is not profitable for the kingdom.

Here are some heart questions for us to ask ourselves:

1) Is this useful, prudent, or profitable for the kingdom of God?
2) Is it better to not do this certain thing that would be perfectly fine and allowed by Scripture?
3) Does this offend others in any way?
4) Is it the best choice as to how I spend my time?
5) Does it build others up in the faith? (Are you using it for that reason???)
6) Is it profitable spiritually for yourself?
7) Does it give glory to God and is it being used for that purpose?
8) Is it a habit or routine that I am being *ruled by*?

Pizza Night!

2009-05-29T08:48:00.007-05:00

I like to buy ready made organic pizza crusts(365 organic brand) at the Whole Foods Market and then fill them up with yummy things! Tonight I am going to make a Mediterranean Pizza. The recipe is on the back of the crusts.

1 365 Organic Everyday Value Pizza Crust
1 TBSP extra virgin olive oil
1 bunch of fresh basil
1 15 oz can of organic diced tomatoes, drained...I like Muir Glen
1 cup sliced baby bella mushrooms
1 container whole creamery fresh mozzarella...or low fat shredded mozzarella
kosher salt
freshly ground pepper

Preheat oven to 400. Lightly brush the pizza crust with olive oil. Spread tomatoes and mushrooms evenly on crust. Sprinkle with about a teaspoon of Kosher salt. Top with fresh mozzarella slices and basil(just before adding the basil, tear the leaves into bite size pieces to help release their flavor). Sprinkle with more salt and pepper to taste. Bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

The kids would prefer a cheese pizza...so we will make one of those, too. : )

Facebook and Computer Time for a Titus 2 Woman

2009-05-28T08:52:00.003-05:00

Technology has made communication efficient, immediate, and constant. There are real benefits to these things. There are also areas of concern that we, as women, need to be aware of. As women living in such a high tech world, it is wise to evaluate and discern what place technology (especially facebook, reading blogs, and just being online) should have in our lives.

There are pros and cons of facebook and blogs. I truly believe these 2 can be used for God's glory if used properly. I also see that they can take away and be a distraction from a woman's role in her home, church, and the world. All of us are at different stages of life...some of you are newly married and do not have children yet, some are single,...some of you are married with young children, some have older children, some are like me and have teens and toddlers, and some of you are empty nesters with your children grown. This makes all of our priorities different because of the different stages we are in. Still the goal is the same...how do we glorify the Lord with the use of our time and how do we be a blessing to others in our lives.

Some questions to think about:

1)Can facebook/blogs be a tool in a christian woman's life to help minister to and encourage others?

2) How does facebook fit into our high calling as woman who are strving to be a Titus 2 woman?

3) What is the proper use of our time as we strive to be a wise women by God's standards?

4) All sorts of things are lawful, but are all advantageous?

5) When trying to evaluate an issue that is not specifically mentioned in scripture, how do we apply biblical principles to help us know God's best for us?

6) Does facebook encourage deep, biblical relationships or does it encourage superficial relationships?

7) Are there times that we should choose not to have a facebook? Does it cause us to waste time, put aside studying God's Word or prayer, talk with other men, or cause us to sin in other areas?

8) Do we really need to know what others are doing throughout a given day by checking on their status?

9) Do we really need to know what Disney princess we are most alike? (facebook applications)

Just some things to ponder as we strive to be what God has called us to be.

Menu For This Week

2009-05-26T08:27:00.005-05:00

Monday--Chicken fajitas, bean burrito for me, Mexican rice, and black beans.

Tuesday--Baked Hawaiian chicken, broiled salmon for me, baked sweet potatoes, and steamed broccoli.

Wednesday--eat out...either Pei Wei or Panera Bread (love their Greek salad)

Thursday--Whole Wheat pasta with portabella mushroom marinara (maybe some other veggies thrown in as well), whole wheat french loaf, fresh garden salad with Ranch for the kids and balsamic vinaigrette for me.

Friday--Either Lentil Soup or veggie pizzas. I like to use the Whole Foods Market ready made whole wheat or multigrain crusts.

Saturday--Dinner plans up in the air since we have Abigail's state soccer tournament...probably eating out somewhere.

Trying To Be a Titus 2 Woman

2009-05-22T14:14:00.003-05:00

Distractions...there are so many out there to rob of us God's beautiful calling as a woman.

Titus 2:3-5 tells us the priorities of a godly woman...from either the commands for the older women or what the younger women should be learning. It is all relevant to us no matter what our age or our level of spiritual maturity. All of us who love God and want His Word to be honored should be striving to be the kind of woman that is described in these verses.

Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.

If we do not think we are an older women yet, we should still be striving to be this kind of woman because to be able to teach and train younger women, we have to learn to be this way first. It is taught by example.

It is a discipline of the heart...it is a matter of trusting God...it takes perseverance because a lot of these things do not come naturally for us and it is hard sometimes.

Thankfully, the Lord has not left us alone to *work* at this...there is no striving to be anything outside of God's grace in our lives. In other words, it is through His strength and grace that we can even be a tiny piece of the picture of a Titus 2 woman. But, His grace is sufficient, isn't it? He will equip us to be all He has called us to be.

Our role in this, though, is to put away the distractions in our lives.

We must see what these distractions are and get rid of them.

Doesn't being a Titus 2 woman take a lot of time? We must have a fixation on the Lord and His Word to be pursuing these Biblical ideals. And we must rest in Him as we seek to learn from our mistakes and see His higher ground.

Recently, I made a list of some of the Titus 2 priorities that I have...things that I see as important...things that have Biblical roots and come from the verses in Titus 2. This list does not include all of my responsibilities as a keeper of the home, but it was the ones that came to my mind first, as first importance.

*Loving my husband--finding practical ways to show him how special he is to me.
*Being a help mate to my husband--meeting his needs, stopping what I am doing to help him.
*Encouraging my husband--thinking of ways to build him up in the Lord, listening to him, having interesting conversations with him.
*Loving my children--showing tenderness and affection especially when they are sick or hurt.
*Encouraging my children.
*Practicing kind and loving discipline.
*Homeschooling my children and helping with school related activities and assignments.
*Serving and ministering to those in need.
*Being a loving friend to others.
*Serving in my church family.
*Showing hospitality to friends and strangers. (need lots of work in this area!)
*Preparing healthy meals--grocery shopping, finding recipes, etc.
*Purchasing clothing for my family.
*Keeping my home neat and clean. (some days I really need a maid!)
*Making sure laundry is done--clothes are clean and put away...(children help with some of these things)
*Being involved with my family--doing arts and crafts with younger children, playing with them, playing outdoors, having fun together, etc.
*Helping my husband with family worship time and doing bible studies with my children.

I do not do all these things well, but see them as a priority that I must be working on all the time. All of these things take TIME! What things in my life are taking the place of doing these things? How important is our time to the Lord and how do we use our time wisely in a way that brings honor to the Lord?

Desiring For More....

2009-05-13T00:27:00.001-05:00

Life is busy. Things need my attention. Feeling convicted. Need to be studying my Bible more and praying. Taking a break....I will be back.

Happy Seventeen To Our Little Girl

2009-05-06T11:21:00.003-05:00

My Little Girl by Tim McGraw

Gotta hold on easy as I let you go.
Gonna tell you how much I love you,
though you think you already know.
I remember I thought you looked like an angel wrapped in pink so soft and warm.
You've had me wrapped around your finger since the day you were born.

You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.

When you were in trouble that crooked little smile could melt my heart of stone.
Now look at you, I've turned around and you've almost grown.
Sometimes you're asleep I whisper "I Love You!" in the moonlight at your door.
As I walk away, I hear you say, "Daddy Love You More!".

You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.

Someday, some boy will come and ask me for your hand.
But I won't say "yes" to him unless I know, he's the half
that makes you whole, he has a poet's soul, and the heart of a man's man.
I know he'll say that he's in love.
But between you and me. He won't be good enough!

You're beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.

A Weekend of Firsts

2009-05-02T19:21:00.008-05:00

We have had an eventful weekend...some firsts of firsts....me running a 10k in a thunderstorm, Abigail running a 5k, and Gracie attending our homeschool prom! Such fun memories!!! Gracie went with a very nice young man from our church as friends. They have served together on 3 mission trips and have been in youth group together for 5 years. We know his family and think the world of them! He handled it perfectly...talking with Mike before asking Gracie...being a wonderful gentlemen about the whole thing. Mike met with him once before the big event and had a wonderful talk. We are thankful for such good godly friends for Gracie. And we are so very thankful for Christian families raising their children to be so respectful and kind! We think it is great for her to enjoy these kinds of activities with good friends in a wholesome environment. Mom and Dad are very pleased with how it went! Here are some pictures from the big event.

A Day In the Life....

2009-04-27T08:51:00.010-05:00

I have been planning a trip to the zoo for a while. We have been waiting for nice weather..a great day to be outside and enjoy a picnic lunch. The day finally came...the girls had their piano lessons cancelled and the weather was going to be perfect, so we made it a zoo day! Fun!

The day was an eventful day for us. Another tire blowout. It felt like I hit something and the noise was so loud!!! I knew from experience what it was. Last time it happened to me, I thought a helicopter was flying right above my head...but I smelled burnt rubber, looked back and saw my Yukon smoking. If you want to read about that experience, you can go here. It was very scary for me. I was by myself last time and had to pull over on the shoulder where there was a rail, so I was very close to traffic. It was terrifying for me!!! This time, I pulled way over and ended up in the grass. I felt much calmer this time. Gracie is always a calm level headed young lady, so she helped quite a bit. Evie cried, but soon calmed down. Jack Henry thought the whole thing was so cool, especially when the policeman stopped to check on us. Abigail laughed right when it happened...which was not a good response...but we all survived it and have some pictures to share from our day. I'm sorry about the quality of the pictures...getting pictures was not the priority, just a last minute decision.

God was once again so very kind to protect us. He kept me calm (that is totally the Lord!) He kept my children safe and even helped them not be afraid. He provided a sweet man to help us and also allowed for us to still go to the zoo for a nice day!

Abigail's face when she realized what had happened...after she laughed and I said,"Do not laugh...this is an emergency!" I don't have a sense of humor until after it is all over!

Roadside assistance came to our rescue...after a call from my husband.

The blankie in our car comes in handy for events like this. We almost got out our picnic lunch and had a nice picnic...but we decided to wait for the park by the zoo.

On to the zoo...The giraffes are my favorite!

Our nice train ride to end the day.

Stinky

2009-04-21T09:08:00.003-05:00

We came home from church Sunday to an awful stinky smell in our playroom...and with 4 kids, we have this happen often. One time our second oldest, when she was about 8 years old, left a basket of real easter eggs in her closet...for weeks we tried to figure out what the smell was. We thought it was a dead animal or something--it was bad! We finally completely cleaned out her closet and found the basket...all cute and colorful with REAL eggs in it! It was the worst smell ever!

Mike and I looked at eachother Sunday and thought...okay where are the eggs?!...then after looking around the playroom really well, we could find nothing. The smell was bad, kinda like sour milk and mildew or something. We looked most of the afternoon and still had no clue. Then when Mike was helping me put some juice boxes in the small refrigerator in our playroom, he found the reason for the smell. Our berber carpet was soaked all around the refrigerator! Mike thought, at first, the water had leaked out of the refrigerator onto the carpet...but he didn't think that much water would come out. He stayed up until 2am trying to figure out where the water was coming from. He did figure it out. We have an outdoor water faucet on our covered patio exactly in that corner outside. Mike and JH had been out cleaning around the pool on Saturday and using that water faucet. (JH loves to spray the water hose!) He figured out that the water pipe for that faucet must have busted and all the water came in the house. He called the plumber yesterday and yes...he said that was what is was. Ughhh...

This means that we are going to have to have the plumber come out...drill into the wall and fix it. We will have to get the built in cabinet repaired, the wall fixed, and the refrigerator placed back into the built ins....and the biggest expense...we will need to get the carpet replaced in this part of the house. We have had this berber carpet since we built the house in 2001. It is only in the playroom and two of our bedrooms. Lately it has shown some wear and has a place where it is coming unraveled. We knew we would have to replace the carpet sometime(we were thinking within a couple of years!) But, now we will have to do it...the water pretty much soaked the entire area on the right side of the room...the padding and all...it is ruined.

This space of the house connects to 3 of our children's bedrooms, so we will need to recarpet all of it...and their walk in closets. Big job. We are really not prepared financially to do this right now, but we have no choice. It is either stinky house or new carpet. God will provide and we can trust Him through this extra expense...even though it will be a trying time for us...God is good! We are praying that our home owner's insurance may cover part of it!

We have thought about hardwood floors, too, but we have tile and hardwoods throughout the rest of the house and it is so loud. We need the children's area to be softer and less loud. So, I guess I will be shopping for new carpet soon! The good thing about it is I can pick out something that shows traffic less. The berber we have now is an off white color...(I know, what was I thinking???)...so now I may get a more soft gold or tan color. Also, we have a really nice pool table in that room and Mike thinks we need to sell it. That will give us so much more room in there! That will be nice!

Now we have the carpet torn up...to help it dry out and get rid of the terrible smell...but it is still pretty bad in here. Evie has been traumatized over the whole situation...she thinks that her room is going to get wet and we are going to have to pull up her carpet. She is a lot like me--being afraid of the what ifs!!

I wish it could be as easy as throwing out the easter basket of eggs.

Monday Menus

2009-04-20T08:08:00.003-05:00

Monday--Pasta with portobella mushrooms...grilled chicken added to meat eaters, chickpea and vegetable salad(store bought from Whole Foods Market--delicious!), whole wheat french bread

Tuesday--Broiled Salmon with lemon, steamed broccoli medley, baked potatoes

Wednesday--Eat out

Thursday--Baked pork chops(to make my husband happy), corn on the cob, baked beans....for me: a yummy green salad(whatever I have on hand) with a vinaigrette dressing

Friday--busy soccer weekend...not sure about the weekend!

A Titus 2 Woman is...

2009-04-15T07:53:00.003-05:00

1) Reverent in her behavior

2) Not a malicious gossip

3) Not enslaved to much wine or anything else for that matter.

Martha Peace says this in *Becoming a Titus 2 Woman*:

She is mature and stable and not out of control. She is a woman whom the elders in her church could depend upon to be a good influence over the younger women. She is a woman who continues to work on these qualities in her life and continues to ask for God's wisdom, conviction, and grace. God has laid within her the foundation of godly character that she needs in order to teach and encourage the younger women.

Praying that the Lord is working this out as He grows me to be more like this each day. I have a long way to go...but He is faithful and does not give up on me! I'm thankful for that!

This Week's Meal Plans

2009-04-13T10:23:00.006-05:00

I am looking forward to a somewhat quiet and calm week after last week being a busy one. I have been getting close to finishing up school with my 6 year old...only 12 more Saxon Math lessons! My older kids will finish late May. This week I am working on school with the children, meeting some running goals, and doing some house cleaning and closet organizing. Hopefully with my meals planned, I will have extra time for the other priorities in the home.

Monday--Easy Chicken Parmesan with whole wheat pasta, steamed broccoli, and french bread

Tuesday--Beef Roast in the crock pot, roasted new potatoes and carrots. Superfoods salad for me and some of the roasted veggies.

Wednesday--Pei Wei or Jason's Deli

Thursday--Pizza night...vegetable pizza for me...meat lovers for my husband...and cheese for the kids. We all like different kinds!

Friday--Some kind of soup and baked potatoes. I am thinking a nice vegetable soup....or a white bean soup.

Happy Resurrection Day!

2009-04-11T10:06:00.001-05:00

See, what a morning, gloriously bright,
With the dawning of hope in Jerusalem;
Folded the grave-clothes, tomb filled with light,
As the angels announce, "Christ is risen!"
See God's salvation plan,
Wrought in love, borne in pain, paid in sacrifice,
Fulfilled in Christ, the Man,
For He lives: Christ is risen from the dead!

See Mary weeping, "Where is He laid?"
As in sorrow she turns from the empty tomb;
Hears a voice speaking, calling her name;
It's the Master, the Lord raised to life again!
The voice that spans the years,
Speaking life, stirring hope, bringing peace to us,
Will sound till He appears,
For He lives: Christ is risen from the dead!

One with the Father, Ancient of Days,
Through the Spirit who clothes faith with certainty.
Honor and blessing, glory and praise
To the King crowned with pow'r and authority!
And we are raised with Him,
Death is dead, love has won, Christ has conquered;
And we shall reign with Him,
For He lives: Christ is risen from the dead!

Monday Menus

2009-04-06T16:59:00.005-05:00

We have a busy week ahead of us...even more of a reason to have my meals planned out.

Monday--Pan sauteed chicken tenderloins seasoned with an herb rub, roasted new thyme potatoes and carrots, sauteed shredded cabbage.

Tuesday--Pasta E Fagioli soup...we have a couple of really cold nights coming up. A nice winter soup sounds good! Recipe below. See update...

Wednesday--Ministering at Detention Center. I'm not sure about dinner yet.

Thursday--Tacos with all the trimmings with some good ole ground beef!...(my family has been asking for this), black beans, Spanish rice. I will be having the beans and rice and a side salad. : )

Friday--Good Friday service...hoping for Pei Wei! I love their Spicy Korean with tofu and vegetables! So yummy!

Saturday--This is still up in the air...possibly a family get together meal.

Pasta E Fagioli

1 pound dried white beans...cannellini or navy
4 quarts low sodium vegetable broth
2 bay leaves
2 TBSP extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes(love Muir Glen)
4 celery ribs, sliced
1 TBSP oregano
1/4 cup chopped basil
1 pound whole wheat pasta...the petite farfalle work well...or penne(cook as directed)
Salt and Pepper

Soak beans in cold water to cover for 6 hours overnight...or go the easy way and use can beans....that works great, too. Discard the water. Cook the beans in the broth in a large pot with the bay leaves until tender, about 45 minutes. In a small skillet, heat olive oil and saute garlic and onions until fragrant and golden. Add the beans along with the crushed tomatoes and celery...simmer for 5 minutes. Sir in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Divide the cooked pasta among the bowls and ladle in the soup.

Update: It has been a couple of months since I have made this delicious soup...I make this a little differently than the recipe calls for and I forgot that when typing out the recipe. I saute the onions, garlic, AND CELERY in the olive oil. I don't add the celery later. I like my celery to be thoroughly cooked and tender in this soup...so I saute it all until it is tender and lightly golden.

This recipe is from the Superfoods website.

Becoming a Titus 2 Woman

2009-04-03T10:44:00.004-05:00

I have a strong desire to be a Titus 2 woman...do you? I know the Lord has a lot of work to do in my heart, but I trust His Word and want to honor His Word by striving to be this kind of woman.

Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not malicious gossips, or slaves to much wine (or to anything). They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.

That last phrase gets me every time...*That the Word of God may not be reviled* (or dishonored). As a child of God, I never want to bring dishonor to God's Word...after all, I know His Word is what has shown me my sin, taught me about salvation--His wonderful cross, and given me hope! God's Word has changed my life! I want to it be thought highly of...I want it to be precious to others like it is to me. How could I dishonor His wonderful Word? By not obeying God's role for me as a woman.

I have been reading back through Martha Peace's book, Becoming Titus 2 Woman, to prepare for an upcoming event at our church. It is full of helpful practical information on how to become this kind of woman. And...as I get older, I see this role as more and more important. I need to be this kind of woman now, while I am young(well,I still see myself as a younger, less mature woman), to allow God to prepare me to be a real Titus 2 woman.

Like Martha peace, I want to grow in the areas of doctrine, character, and ministry. What are some of the character traits of the godly older woman?

Reverent in her behavior...Matthew Henry described this type of woman as one whose "behavior becomes a woman consecrated to God." She should act and dress in a manner pleasing to God. She should be outwardly different from the world and holy within.
1 Peter 3: 3-4...And let not your adornment be merely external-braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.

These verses are saying that our outer adornment should not the main emphasis...The Titus 2 woman has true beauty that comes from within...with a kind and gentle spirit...I like that Martha does not mean this is quiet as in speaking with a whisper...it is more the attitude that accepts God's dealings with her as good. She has peace and trust in God. She is not given to anger or fear.

In my next few posts, I am going to be writing about what the Lord is teaching me as I review this material. It is a lot and already I see my own failings in this area. God is gracious and kind to bring it to my attention once again and focus my heart on His ways for me.

Monday Menus

2009-03-30T09:03:00.004-05:00

I have my menu made out...I just need to get to the grocery store to buy everything!

Monday--Broiled Salmon with lemon served over brown rice, corn on the cob, roasted asparagus(my favorite!).

Tuesday--Rotisserie chicken(store bought), roasted new potatoes and carrots, spinach salad with strawberries, slivered almonds, and raspberry vinaigrette.

Wednesday--eat out...not sure where yet.

Thursday--Whole wheat pasta with tomato basil meat sauce(ground turkey), just tomato basil sauce for me and superfoods salad.

Friday--Minestrone soup and multi-grain crusty loaf. I use organic vegetable broth...just as good.

Running

2009-03-28T12:38:00.003-05:00

I am on a mission...to improve as a runner! If you'd like to read about my attempts, you can go here. I know there are many of you that probably don't care about the running, so I didn't want it to bore you on this blog. But, since spring is here and I am trying to work on distance and better speed, I wanted a blog to keep up with it. And, if there are other runners out there it would be great to encourage and motivate one another! So feel free to read along!

The Heart Of Our Family

2009-03-27T10:11:00.000-05:00

Lord, I praise You.
I magnify Your name.
I am daily amazed by Your grace and mercy.
You are the heart of my family.
Without You my family is incomplete.
With You we have everything we need.
I worship and praise You. Amen

Gift of a Son

2009-03-23T08:59:00.003-05:00

This weekend our little boy turned 4. Our baby boy has matured past potty training,has learned his letters and numbers, and can throw a football and tackle his daddy like you would not believe! What a fun little priceless treasure we have in this gift from God. Raising a son has incredible responsibility...God given responsibility. The training of a little boy has its own set of challenges. We pray that we can face these challenges joyfully and see them as ways to grow--to become more faithful, more dependent on the Lord, and more reliant on His grace. May the Lord show us our own sin as we seek to be more like Christ in our parenting.

I am praying for little Jack Henry...that God would give Him a heart to love and treasure God and His Word above all. Here are some specific Biblical virtues we are praying for our son from a card we have "Biblical Virtues to Pray for Your Kids" by Bob Hostetler.

1) Salvation--"Lord, let salvation spring up within my child, that he may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. (Is 45:8; 2Tim 2:10)

2) Growth in Grace--"I pray that my child may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3:18)

3) Honesty and Integrity--"May integrity and honesty be his virtue and his protection." (Ps 25:21)

4) Courage--"May my child always be strong and courageous in his character and in his actions." (Deut 31:6)

5) Purity--"Create in him a pure heart, O God, and let that purity of heart be shown in his actions. (Ps 51:10)

6) Humility--"God, please cultivate in my child the ability to show true humility toward all." (Titus 3:2)

7) A Servant's Heart--"God, please help my child develop a servant's heart, that he may serve wholeheartedly, as if he was serving the Lord, not men." Col 3:23)

8) Passion for God--"Lord, please instill in my son a soul that 'followeth hard after thee'(Ps 63:8 KJV), one that clings passionately to you."

Superfoods RX Salad

2009-03-13T10:26:00.007-05:00

DR. Pratt, who wrote the Superfoods RX book says he eats this salad once or twice a day. I don't know if I would go that far, but it is really good and easy to prepare. I usually make a double size and just add the chopped tomato and dressing right before serving. It will last me a couple of days for lunch or as a side salad. It is so fresh and colorful, which I love! Foods that are pretty are so much fun to eat!

1 cup spinach, torn in bite-size pieces

1 cup chopped romaine

1/4 cup shredded red cabbage

1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper

1/2 tomato, chopped

1/4 cup chickpeas(garbanzo),drained and rinsed

1/2 cup grated carrot

1/4 avocado, cubed

2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp. balsamic vinegar

Combine all ingredients except olive oil and vinegar in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk oil and vinegar. Toss with dressing just before serving. Serves 1.

Some really good extras: A couple of TBSP of raw sunflower seeds, some chopped broccoli, some chopped or thinly sliced red onion, or a few kalamata olives.

Grace Upon Grace

2009-03-12T08:09:00.002-05:00

For of His fullness we have all received grace upon grace. John 1:16

This is a summary of a devotional by John MacArthur that I read recently:

Is God's grace a thrilling thing to you? It should be...this is what grace has done:

1) He poured out His grace on me, first of all.

2) He forgave ALL my sins.

3) He granted me the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

4) He gave my understanding of His Word---He opened my eyes.

5) He called me to a spiritual ministry.

6) Everyday He gives me rich communion with other believers.

7) He enables me to see the world as His handiwork.

8) I am His child.

9) He loves me in a personal way.

What I could not do for myself, he has done! When left on my own, with no intervention from God, I would have not chosen Him. I would have stubbornly stayed in my own selfish sinful state and enjoyed it. He chose me and drew my heart to His. Without that *drawing* I would be lost in my sins and trespasses and would ultimately receive death. He opened my eyes to see my helpless state and gave me His grace and loved me...when I was a sinner, Christ died for me. Isn't it just all grace that He would choose any? The just and fair thing would be for all of us to die in our sins? Praise God that His grace has been poured out on us.

Monday Menus

2009-03-09T09:23:00.002-05:00

We are off to a great week so far after a very busy weekend! I have to admit that I am a little tired after the time change and being out a little later than normal...but God is good and His grace gives us what we need to get up and enjoy a new day! The weather has been gorgeous lately...sunny with temperatures in the high 70s! I am thankful for the change of seasons which once again remind me of God's perfect order and sovereignty. Isn't all of creation a testimony to God's goodness? And He chose to share it with us and has given us a great living hope in what is to come.

I've been working on our menus for the week ahead...lots of fresh veggies and yummy salads!

Monday--Italian seared chicken breasts for the meat eaters, roasted vegetables(see below for recipe), mixed green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and garbanzo beans...with a light red wine vinaigrette.

Tuesday--Homemade vegetables pizzas...whole wheat crusts with a tad of olive oil and portabella mushrooms, red and green peppers, roasted broccoli, and fresh spinach with a light amount of soy mozarella on top. Cheese pizzas for the little kids.

Wednesday--Jason's Deli

Thursday--Turkey Chili for the family and bean chili for me.

Friday--We have a soccer game this evening, so I am not sure...

Saturday--Fresh garden salads and baked potatoes.

Roasted Vegetables:

1/4 cup olive oil...it doesn't take much for a lot of vegetables...use it sparingly.
sprigs of fresh rosemary
fresh thyme
About 6 red potatoes, cut into large cubes with peelings left on
6-8 carrots, cut into large chunks
1 bunch of asparagus, with tough ends snapped off and cut into 2 inch pieces
1 red onion, sliced
1 red pepper, sliced
1 zuchinni, sliced
salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Toss all of vegetables in 1/4 cup olive oil, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Put carrots and potatoes on baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes. These take a little longer to cook. Then add other vegetables for about 20 more minutes. Bake until tender and slightly brown on edges. If they get dry use some olive oil spray during cooking time.

Just Thinking Out Loud.....

2009-03-04T09:13:00.004-06:00

I am enjoying a large cup of this delicious tea this morning as well as spending some time in serious prayer. It is so reassuring that God is completely sovereign! What He brings about to happen in our lives is only by His will...and nothing happens by coincidence. That is extra comforting to me. His plans are not our plans. When we start out on a journey of faith, we don't know His plans (we might think we do and we might feel very strongly that it is His will)...but, His plans may actually be different than what we thought. But, isn't that one of the things that makes the Lord so great and mighty? He sees all, knows all, and rules supremely over all of His creation. He brings about His will for His people and does what is best, right, and perfect...and the result? God is glorified through it all. I am praising the Lord for these truths this morning.

Heart Check

2009-02-27T16:33:00.006-06:00

I recently heard this question from one of our pastors and have been thinking on it:

"Would we still desire to go to heaven if Christ was not there?"

In other words...do we follow Christ for how He benefits us...or do we find true joy and satisfaction in Him and Him alone?

Do we look forward to heaven because there will be no tears...no pain...or do we seek to see Christ in all of His glory and worship Him forever?

Do we think of heaven as a place to see love ones whom we miss dearly...or do we think of the One who gave everything so we could be there?

Do we seek Christ for His signs, His help to us, His comforts, or do we seek Christ as those who are hungry and seeking food for nourishment.

Do we see our need for the only true One who satisfies...or do we seek fulfillment in all the wrong places?

Do we see our greatest need as forgiveness? Or is our greatest need
to be "happy"?

Like hunger we come to Christ knowing we are sinful and in need of forgiveness...we have a great need...A hungry person comes to food and trust the food as a way to satisfy. Should we not seek Christ the same way...fully trusting Him as the One who completely satisfies?

I don't want to be like the unbelievers in John 6:25-51 who sought Jesus for what he could do for them.

John 6:35 Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.

Lifesong

Adoption Heartbreak and God's Sovereignty Over My Life

Running

Time and Thinking

Different Approach This Time

By Our Love

From Our Home To Yours....Merry Christmas!

He is My Light.

This Week's Dinner Plans

This Week's Menu

Trusting in the Hands that NEVER Fail

Monday's Menu Plans

Lead Me

Fall is on the way...and SOUPS are on the Menu!

Living One Day At A Time

Well, We Did It.

Blessings...the Simple Things

Summer Time

Words From Dad

Beholding the God of Self Sufficient Fullness

Green Smoothie

Power Tool in the Kitchen

Happy 18th

Shelter in the Storm

Monday Menus

Monday Menus

Creamy Asparagus Spring Soup

A Son is a Joy...

Blessed Beyond Measure

This is the Great Adventure....

Fear...Is it Your Imagination?

No Greater Love

Recommended Reading

I Will Sing You A Lullaby

Healthy and Delicious!

Gospel News

Beauty

Supremacy and Excellency of Jesus Christ

Grocery Staples and Some Random Catching Up.

A New Year

Time for some Green!

The True Light

Mrs. U's Cranberry Cider

A Wonderful Evening....

Some Christmas Favorites

Sweet Aroma

Pumpkin is a Superfood... So Enjoy!

Making Memories

Sovereign and Gracious

Happy Birthday to the Man I Married!

Sweet Potato, Lentil, and Kale Soup

With All of my Love and Respect, Dad.

Sunrise and Reality Check

Make Our Path Clear, Lord.

God's Goodness

Enjoying the Hammock at Samford University

What's On Our Back To School Book Shelves

Worthy of Your Time...

Homeschool Perspective from Our Oldest Child

Back To School....Already?

Songs of The Lukewarm Church

Morning Theology

Colleges and Your Help!

Directions For Wives

Stuffed Red Bell Peppers

Patio Dining

Sweet and So Good!

God's Goodness in the Last 21 Years

Our Adoption Journey

Thankful for a Safe Return From Honduras!

A Place Called Grace

What We Have Been Up To Lately

Time Away

Death Is Not Dying

I'm So Unworthy....But Still You Love Me!

Monday Menus

All Sorts of Things Are Lawful For Me, But Are All Advantageous?

Pizza Night!

Facebook and Computer Time for a Titus 2 Woman

Menu For This Week