21 years.....

(* Our Anniversary is August 15th but I'm posting a day early as we'll be gone tomorrow.)

Today holds a special place in my heart as memories flood my mind, drifting back to the day I said “I do” to my husband, Tim. As I reminisce about that day, I’m in awe of the realization of how little I really knew about the meaning of love.

Yes I was in love with my groom the day I said “I do”; but with each passing year, the depth of love I have for him, has truly grown. When I think about our marriage, I’m reminded of a tree and how it grows.

We began as this frail little tree, planted within the forest preparing to grow, and develop into an amazing strong oak. The day we were planted (the day we were married) the soil was fresh, and much water was applied to help are small, short roots take hold.

Each year as we grew in our love, and our faith, our roots grew a little deeper, taking a stronger hold on the foundation we were built upon. Jesus Christ.

Yet, like most tree’s, we often faced many storms in life that would test us and test the foundation of our roots. There were/are days when the storms of life come like a flood bending us, and wanting to break us. Yet, as our roots have grown deep, God has so graciously taught us to cling to each other and to him regardless of the storms that come.

We’ve faced many, many seasons in our lives. We faced the “hot” heat of summer..the season’s when are leaves were a pretty color, yet, at times we felt parched, spiritually not knowing what God was up too. During these season’s we’ve literally taken baby steps seeking a drink from his river of life to help us make it…help us reach..the next step.

We’ve faced the “coolness” of the fall, and the beauty that comes. We’ve seen the beauty (color) of God’s hand in our lives, as well as abundance, and blessing. We’ve enjoyed the season of walking in the beauty of all that’s been around us.

We’ve face the “harsh” reality of the winter…the cold, the dying of everything around us. Yet, during this season we’ve found solace by warming our hearts by the fire of his word as we’ve walked the dry, dead road of winter. During the winter season’s we’ve learned to totally rest and trust in him, for he holds our days, and tomorrows in the palm of his hand and he WILL NOT leave us, nor forsake us. During these often dry seasons, we’ve seen the freshness of the fallen snow, falling on our bare branches reminding us that God washes us whiter than snow.

We’ve face the “beauty” in spring. We’ve seen many, many season’s of God doing, “new things”…bud’s appearing in our lives. During the spring he’s brought fresh, new things to our lives to help us know that “joy does come in the morning”; after the long dark winter, God always provides new life…new vision…new direction.

I’m so blessed to have a husband who’s desire is to be right in the middle of God’s will. There have been season’s where God’s allowed us to “go our own way”…..chase after “our dreams”; realizing that true happiness cannot be found “outside God’s will!” Yet, during the seasons of searching..….God has patiently waited for us, to go deeper in him, following his heart.

God has truly blessed me with a husband who “knows” his Jesus, and he’s like E.F. Hutton..when he talks, I’ve learned to listen; because God speaks powerfully through him and when I talk with him, I get a better glimpse of my Heavenly Father.






Happy Anniversary Babe!!! Know that you truly are my “sugar in this world of salt”!!

I LOVE you more…
I LOVE you most….
I LOVE you morst….


<3,
Me
xoxoxo

Louie Giglio-Laminin

Before you play the video, please pause my music on the lower left. :-)

This is one of the BEST video's I've seen.What an amazing blessing to know that whomever TRUSTS in the Lord...will be held in the hands of a LOVING Father! God watches each and everyone of us from his dwelling place and he's acquainted with EVERYTHING we do!


So many are hurting, dealing with life situations that are causing them to not only doubt themselves, but doubt their faith. It's in time's like these, Jesus' desire for us is that we cling to him for he promises to HOLD us....and walk with us.

Hold on to that promise today, and be BLESSED as you watch this video.

Kim~

Would you answer ~*~*The Call????~*~*

What a powerful question to ponder. Yet daily, Jesus stands at our hearts door and asks us this simple question, "will you answer the call?"

What is "the call" you ask? For me, I believe "the call" is making a decision, to take a stand for Jesus Christ each and every day of my life. Jesus calls each and everyone of us to deny ourselves, pick up our cross and follow him.

He didn't say it would be easy, it didn't say it would be comfortable, and he didn't say it would be popular. YET he's calling each and everyone of us to take a stand.

~He's calling me and you....and the church to STOP playing church.

~He's calling me and you....and the church to stand UP and be the real church.

~He's calling me and you....and the church to start living a life with absolutes.

~He's calling me and you....and the church to start calling sin...sin.

~He's calling me and you....and the church to draw line's in the sand separating wrong from right, do's and don'ts.

~He's calling me and you....and the church to be set on a hill, "different' from the world.

Are you willing to "answer that call?"

Tomorrow, Ashley will board a bus heading to Washington D.C. for 5 days to participate in "The Call", that will take place on the Mall in Washington D.C. She will gather with thousands...of young people who will FAST & PRAY for our country; taking a stand against abortion, immoratily, and lukewarmness.

Our country is truly at a crossroad, and it's time the church (you and I) take a stand and no longer hide our light under a bussel! 2 Chronicles 7:14 says,

"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (NIV)

This is exactly what Ashley and thousands of young people will be doing. They will be praying, seeking, repenting, and turning.....and asking God to heal our land.

Take a look at this link here! Click the play button on TheCall DC Promo V1. If this doesn't give you Holy Ghost bumps.....I don't know what will!

I believe God is asking the REAL Christians/Church to stand....and either change their conduct, or change their name!!

Let's be in prayer as these young people....answer, "The Call!"

Dark But Lovely

Recently I head this amazing song by Sarah Edwards called, "Dark But Lovely". The theme of this song is about "God's Grace".

Webster defines grace as this:

approval, favor, mercy, pardon, privilege.


The Bible defines grace as this:

a free gift, graciousness, helpfulness towards someone in need, not in return for anything

When you combine the two, GRACE is an amazing gift from God isn't it? We are so undeserving of God's grace, yet, daily, he's eager to extend it to us. He extends it, even when we are SO unworthy. He extends it to us, when we sin. He extends it to us when me make wrong choices.

You see, he LOVES us SO much, that he see's past our ugliness, past our pain, past our sin and he see's us as LOVELY, and BEAUTIFUL.

My prayer for you, is that as you read the lyrics to this song, and click the link below to hear the song, that God's presence will flow over you in such a powerful way that regardless of your past, or present... you realize that God's GRACE is waiting for you!

Sarah Edwards - Dark but Lovely

I can't understand this work of grace
How a perfect God would come and take my place

I can't understand this work of grace
How a perfect God would come and take my place

The stars they don't move you
The waves can't undo you
The mountains in their splendor
They cannot steal your heart

This God who is Holy
Perfect in beauty
Awesome in Glory
Is ravished by my heart

Though I'm poor you say I'm lovely
Though I'm dark you say I am beautiful

Somehow my weak glance, it overwhelms you
Somehow my weak love, it has stolen away your heart

Click here to listen to the song! When you are taken to the attached link, you will need to scroll down the page a little where you will see the play button. (Please scroll down and stop the music playing)

Hold My Hand...

What a great realization to think about. God wants each of us...to "Hold His Hand." Today, as I read a devotional from Sarah Youngs book called: Jesus Calling, I was gently reminded of the importance of holding his hand.

She says,

"Hold My hand, and walk joyously with Me through this day. Together we will savor the pleasures and endure the difficulites it brings. Be on the lookout for everything I have prepared for you: stunning scenery, bracing winds of adventure, cozy nooks for resting when you are weary, and much more. I am your Guide, as well as your constant Companion. I know every step of the journey ahead of you, all the way to heaven.

You don't have to choose between staying close to Me and staying on course. Since I am the Way, staying close to Me is staying on course. As you focus your thoughts on Me, I will guide you carefully along today's journey. Don't worry about what is around the next bend. Just concentrate on enjoying My Presence and staying in step with Me."

Wow, what amazing truths about God's desire for us to rest in him.

Today our family is resting in him as our heart are heavy for the precious family Ashley Nanny's for. Today, would have been the Mom's birthday, and Ashley is certainly feeling the stress and tension that surrounds this sad day. (How do people get through tragedies like this without the Lord?)

This past weekend, the Dad's Mom was here (from Iowa) to watch the kids (girl-5, boy-2) and was there yet this morning when Ashley arrived. This sweet...sweet Grandma bought Ashley a gift for her Bible to take with her as she returns to YWAM in September. (Ashley's had the opportunity to have a number of conversations with the G-ma to know that she is a believer)

Through the Grandma's tears, she expressed her heartfelt Thankfulness to Ashley for all that she's brought to the lives of this family through her love, care, concern, and disciple for the children.

Ashley has truly brought structure, and order, and the gospel to the hearts and souls of these precious little people. The little girl "T", LOVE'S Veggie Tales, and she dances and sings all the songs. So today, Ashley is taking her to the christian bookstore to buy her a few DVD's, as it's hard to watch these amazing videos on the computer.

Weekly, on Wednesday nights, I've had the blessing of watching the little boy "B", so that Ashley and Andrew could attend Youth Group. We found this adorable little kid's worship CD, and I began teaching "B", all the motions to songs such as "Zaccheus was a Wee Little Man", "I'm in the Lord's Army", "Oh be careful little Eye's what you see".....and the list could go on..and on..and on. All "B" has to do is hear the first note, of a song and he RUNS to our kitchen, and sings his little heart out as he does all the motions.

I often wonder what the Dad thinks when "B" dances around singing, "I in da Vard Arme....Yes Sir"!!!

Our pray, is that as Ashley leaves in September, and my husband, Andrew and I now continue on in caregiving (occassionally) for these children until Ashley returns, that God will continue to help us plant seeds of Faith into their lives.

Today, our family is practice "Holding His Hand", as we prayerfully seek him as we reach out to this family. We know that God has brought this family into our lives for such a time as this, and we know God wants to lead this family to the foot of his cross to find complete healing, and wholeness!

My Path...My God...and a snake

Before I begin…be warned…this is long….

One of the hi-lites of my vacation last week was enjoying my daily run. Each day, as I tied up my running shoes, slipped on my head phones to my ipod, I could hardly wait to get on the running path. For me, running is a great time for me to be quiet, listen to my praise music, and pray and meditate on God. It’s during my running times, God and I discuss a lot of things. Things like, life issues, family decisions, directions we are seeking, his perfect will, or areas he is working on in my heart.

One day in particular as I was running I was focusing on God, and listening. As I continued on my path, out of the corner of my eye I spotted a small garden snake coiled up on the path directly in front of me. In that very moment, I gasped, and my total focus went from God, to that snake. After I passed that snake, the Lord whispered to me, “see how easy it was for you to take your focus off of me when you saw that snake? Do you not know that that small little snake is far more afraid of you, than you of it?”

As I pondered what the Lord shared with me, he began to speak to me about how easy it is, to take my focus off of HIM, when an uncomfortable situation enters my pathway.

John 10:10 says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”

As I believer, satan CANNOT steal, kill or destroy me, because “greater is he that is in me, than he that is in the world.”

Little did I know that as I began my new routine, many things would unfold in the coming days that would cause me to ‘slip’, and take my eye’s off of him, and focus on my situations and circumstances. Little did I know, that my faith would be tested…..to the fullest.

After arriving home from this very run, my circumstances began to change. Our mini van broke down while our son was out running errands. What followed was dealing with our car being in the shop for 9 days unfixable. The shop couldn’t figure out what was wrong, which resulted in us canceling our 4th of July plans to travel home to see family.

To say we were disappointed that we couldn’t go home would be an understatement. We all began to “unpack” our luggage as we’d now be staying home.

We talked, discussed, reasoned, and tried to figure out what could possibly be wrong with our van. Like most people, we did what you would do, we went to “google” to seek his opinion. (NOTE: did you notice we forgot to pray????)

Of course, what google told us, rocked our world as we were certain our vehicle had this certain type of “unfixable” problem which would mean our van was dead.

Yes, this new news affected our weekend, as we began to be filled with worry, fear, and anxiety as the thought of purchasing a different vehicle just wasn’t in our plans. We began to look at schedules as we now were faced with needed to get 4 people….to four different places each day of the week with one vehicle.

Fast forward to Monday of this week. My husband called to tell me that he thought he really should check with the dealer that we purchased our car from to see if they might have a solution for our van. Of course, they were sure they could fix it.

That news, began to birth some “hope” in our hearts, and as we traveled home from work that evening, our hearts felt lighter as we were sure our vehicle might be fixable after all. And, in this very moment, I looked at my husband and reminded him how we had been putting our hope, and faith, into the mechanic to fix our vehicle, and when we thought they couldn’t fix it, we allowed our circumstances to dictate our hearts attitude.

My mind quickly returned to my jog the week before, and how God was dealing with my heart about allowing my circumstances to dictate my hearts attitude. Boy does conviction sting!!!!

My husband and I continued our talk about how we allowed an ‘unknown circumstance” to affect our weekend…when now, we could NEVER have those days back! It was so very sobering to realize we allowed worry, fear, and anxiety to settle in our hearts, instead of resting in Jesus.

We arrived home and the boys got busy doing what they were doing and I headed out the door on my run! This run was no different than my past runs, where Jesus kept reminding me to “rest” and “focus” on him. He kept reminding me that nothing I face, would be unbearable with him by my side.

As I began the final stretch of my run it began to rain, and the rain was so warm as it was coming down and I felt God’s total peace. I felt his peace, until I reached the end of our street and I noticed the boys backing our truck in and out of the garage and I knew something was wrong.

AGAIN…my heart jumped from calm, and peace, to worry and fear!!! As I entered the garage, there before my eyes sat a smashed up front end of our truck….our ONLY working vehicle!

My first thought was, “how much more God….are you going to allow us to go through?” Do you know how he responded? He said, “until you learn to ‘rest’ in me…you will remain in my school of waiting”. OUCH!!!!

After picking Ashley up we returned home and the boys had already talked to our insurance and had everything lined up with the adjuster first thing Tuesday morning. You could almost feel the defeat we felt in the air. Ashley being the strong person that she is, instructed each of us to get our Bibles, and meet in the living room for a prayer meeting. (duh…why didn’t I think of that??)

As a family, we prayed, wept, read scriptures asking God to “make a way” where there seemed to be no way. We prayed that God would “change our heart”….helping us to “focus on him” rather than our situations. The hour and an half we spent before the Lord was so amazing, and I honestly believe each of us had a great nights sleep as well.

As I woke the next morning, fear began to creep in again, and God reminded me of Philippians 4:8 which we prayed and agreed upon as a family which says:

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.”

As I began to meditate on Philippians 4:8 my cell phone rang and I saw my Mom’s name on the caller ID. At first I thought, “why did she call me now!” because I knew I’d loose it once I’d hear her voice. (and yes, I did lose it J)

My Mom was calling to tell me that my Grandfather had been in a bad car accident while traveling to Texas to visit my Aunt. (he’s ok) I then told my Mom about Andrew’s accident and the smashed up truck, and the hopes that our van may be fixable, to we now have to come up with a deductible for our truck, and money to fix the van, to I’m weary in my well doing. Sigh….here I go again…..worry…fear…anxiety!!

By the time I finished my conversation with my Mom, I was feeling SO much better!! I then went on my way, making coffee and breakfast and getting everyone up for our busy day.

And wouldn’t ya know that God had gone before us, (just like he always does) making a way where there seemed to be No way?

The boys took the truck to the adjuster, and were given a rental car right away (totally paid for by our insurance) and our truck is in the shop getting fixed as we speak.

Next, then got our van from the car shop, to the car dealer and they found the problem and it’s totally fixable!!!!

We will be able to pick our van up first thing tomorrow morning, and our truck next Tuesday and we’ll be back in business with running vehicles.

Last night on our way home from getting Ashley from her nanny job at 9:30pm, I couldn’t help but smile as I listen to the laughter and sounds coming from the kids in the back seat as we pulled throw the drive thru at DQ. God gently reminded me how easy it is, to loose our childlike faith!

Truth be told, our worst day with Jesus, is better than our best day without him. I’m certain, in the near future, I will be faced with another life challenge that will require me to make a choice on my journey/path. Will I choose faith, hope, and peace found in my Jesus? Or, will I choose worry, fear, and doubt, the things the world has to offer that do not provide anything?

The life lessons of the past two weeks have forever been etched in my heart and they have forever changed me as I’ve watched the hand of God move, in our families life.

My prayer is that whatever situation, trial, or circumstances you may be facing, God will make a way…..because he did for me!

A little of this.....a little of that.....

I've always enjoyed the 4th of July as I schedule vacation from work to enjoy 9 glorious days to do whatever comes to mind, and this year is no different.

Here's what we've been up to:

~we've recently added "stir-fry" to our menu plan with LOTS of fresh veggies....and even the kid's are getting into it. (well...maybe not Ashley...) Any given evening...oh say..around 9:45pm (hence the time on the kitchen clock) you might find Andrew doing this:


I guess if the boy needs to eat late at night...there is nothing better than fresh veggies

~Ashley and I have been spending a lot of time sitting here (no, these are not our deck chairs.....but one of ours does look similar) catching some rays for a much needed coppertone tan.



The little girl in the coppertone ad looks much like the little boy Ashley nanny's for, as he's been joining us this week.

It's so relaxing to get up each morning, and have nothing on the planner for the day......no to do list, no need to be somewhere at a specific time....how relaxing is that?


~I've also slipped into these:


These are by far my FAVORITE running shoes!! We are blessed to live in a neighborhood will access to wonderful biking/running trails, so I'm getting myself back into my routine of running 3 miles a day.

Surprisingly, it's not been too hard to get back into a groove. Perhaps its' easy not having to jokey a work schedule around my running schedule? Who knows. All I do know is that I've missed running, and I'm glad I'm back into the routine.


~Another favorite thing I enjoy while running is listening to this:



I slip on my headset...put on my baseball cap, and away I go. Listening to Christian music while I run sure helps me keep my stride. In fact, my favorite song to listen to while running is: Lincoln Brewster's song called: Everlasting God.


~Ashley has also introduced me to Arizon Ice Tea!! We LOVE it. There is noting like
pouring yourself a tall glass of ice tea over ice while enjoying the sun on the deck. We've found the Arizona tea at Target on sale this week for $2.50 for the 128 ounce container so we've stocked up!

We are hoping to pack up in a few days and head to Wisconsin to spend the 4th of July weekend with my family, that is, if our mini van is fixed by them. Yesterday afternoon Andrew went out to run some errands and while out, the van wouldn't start. Thank goodness for the added benefit of "towing" on our insurance. So, today, our van is sitting at the shop, hoping to get looked at tonight, or tomorrow. Of course, the car shop is super busy getting cars fixed as many are planning to head out of town for the holidays.

So, for now, we are praying that the repairs will be minimal, so that we can still travel to see family.

~All of the above make for a great vacation, but a recent book find is the icing on the cake. I'm a huge fan of Nancy Leigh DeMoss, and last week my husband picked up one of her books for me. It's called:

Brokeness.....Surrender....Holiness....

On the first page of her book she shares from-The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions which says:

He is everything To me!

He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation, Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.
He always was, He always is, and He always will be
Unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and Never undone!

He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!

The world can’t understand him, armies can’t defeat Him, Schools can’t explain Him, and the leaders can’t ignore Him.

Herod couldn’t kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn’t confuse Him, and
The people couldn’t hold Him!
Nero couldn’t crush Him,
Hitler couldn’t silence Him,
The New Age can’t replace Him, and
The intellectuals and rationalists can’t explain Him away!

He is Light, Love, Longevity, and Lord.
He is Goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.
He is Holy, Righteous, Mighty, Powerful, and Pure.
His ways are right, His Word is eternal,
His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me!

He is my Redeemer,
He is my Savior,
He is my Guide, and
He is my Peace!
He is my Joy,
He is my Comfort,
He is my Lord, and
He rules my life!

I serve Him because His bond is love,
His burden is light, and His goal for me is abundant life.

I’m bought by blood and bound by love.
I love Him because He first loved me.

I follow Him because
He is the wisdom of the wise,
The power of the powerful,
The ancient of days,
The ruler of rulers,
The leader of leaders,
The First of the overcomers, and
The sovereign Lord of all that was and is to come.

And wonders of wonders-
His goal is a relationship with ME!

He will never leave me, or forsake me,
Never mislead me, or forget me,
Never overlook me, and
Never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!

When I fall, He lifts me up!
When I fail, He forgives!
When I am weak, He is strong!
When I am lost, He is the way!
When I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me!
When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me!
When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face problems, He comforts me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!

He is my everything
He is God,
He is faithful.

I am His, and He is mine!
Our Father in heaven has defeated the god of this world.
Greater is He that is in me!

So, if you’re wondering why I feel so secure, understand this...
He said it and that settles it.
God is in control, I am on His side, and that means all is well with my soul.

Everyday is a blessing for GOD Is!

Lord, high and holy, meek and lowly
Thou hast brought me to the valley of vision
where I live in the heights with Thee
and in the depths with me.
Hemmed in by the mountains of sin,
I yet see Thy glory.

Let me learn by paradox

that the way down is the way up
that to be lowly is to be high
that the broken heart is the healed heart
that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit
that the repenting soul is the victorious soul
that to have nothing is to possess all
that to bear the cross is to wear the crown
that to give is to receive
that the valley is the place of clearest vision.

What a powerful prayer/devotion!!! As I read it, I knew I wanted to read this book, and I'm enjoying my time this week....reading through...Brokenness, Surrender, Holiness.

Praying that each of you are having a great week...and a WONDERFUL 4th of July!!

Kim~

~*~*My Yoke is easy and my Burden is light~*~*

When I’ve pondered this passage, the thought of a “yoke” my minds eye takes me to a field, where I'm watching two horses...joined together with a "yoke". As I watch the scene unfold the yoke seems heavy, uncomfortable, and honestly, something I didn’t really want to think about.

I continued to meditate on Matthew 11:30, asking the Lord to speak to my heart about the importance of taking on his “yoke”.

As I pondered this passage, I was reminded of this photo which illustrates to me my life when I choose NOT to be in his “yoke”.

I often invision God sitting in heaven looking down at me and chuckling as I often respond like an untamed horse, who’s constantly bucking the things I know I need to do, but choose not to do? Why is it, that I think it would be much easier to run my own direction. Often my direction leads to worry, fear, and doubt (removing myself from his yoke); rather than remaining in joy, peace and rest (in his yoke)?

Why is it that I so easily forget the scripture that says, my plans are to prosper you and not to harm you? The reality of this scripture is this: when I really believe this verse, I can rest, relax, and find great peace and joy in his presence….in his “yoke”.

Yet, more times than not, I choose my own way…my own path. Often I find that when I’m facing a trial or difficult situation, one of the first things I do is unhook myself from his “yoke”. Once I’ve done this, I slide into ‘self”. I begin to grumble, and complain not liking the situation I’m in. Yet, God reminds me that even though what I’m facing may be overwhelming, awkward, of difficult, if I’m persistent in staying in his “yoke”, my burden will become lighter.


God is such a Loving and Patient God who will allow me to travel down my own road/path; and more times than not, I find myself back tracking down that road/path like a dog with my tail between my legs knowing I made the wrong choice. Why is it that my pride always get’s in the way? Why is it that I feel my way is best?

God desires that I walk humbly with him. Period!! What does it look like when I'm humble? To me, I show humility by placing his yoke upon me…and letting him lead and guide my life. For when I choose my own way, I’m being proud and not humble, believing I know best.

I have found that when I align next to my Savior in his “yoke” I’m strengthened because it is no longer ‘I’ carrying my load/burden; but rather my Savior. When I'm walking...step by step in rhythm with him, my soul find rest. I find that when I take on his "yoke", we steadily walk "together" one foot in front of the other. Often I wonder if God wouldn't like a brittle in my mouth as well to keep me from wanting to look off to the right or the left, as if by doing that I'd find the peace I'm looking for?

When I’m in God’s yoke, this requires me to keep a steady pace……keeping my eye’s focused on the mark/what’s in front of me. When I’m in “his yoke”, I cannot become easily distracted.

Think about a team of horses in a "yoke". They have one goal...to reach the final destination. They reach this goal by walking together...shoulder to shoulder, stride to stride carrying the burden together.

Isn't this an amazing word picture of how our Jesus wants to walk with us as we daily take on his "yoke"!?!?

When I’m walking in “his yoke” I can listen must easier to the tender things my Savior shares with the secret places of my heart; and it's in this position, that I too, can share the secret's of my heart with the one who LOVES me with an everlasting love. When I'm walking in his "yoke" his ways, become my ways. When I continue to walk with him, I’ll continue to find him moment by moment, trial by trial, situation by situation, and circumstance by circumstance. For truly, when I seek him, then will I find him.

God’s desire for me is to soak in his presence. I cannot do that, apart from his yoke. For when I remain in his “yoke”, his presence is SO real to my heart. And after all, don't we all desire "clean hands and a pure heart"?

God loves each of us SO much that he’s designed a special path for us(why is it that so often we fall into “the grass is greener” syndrome?) to follow. I believe our biggest challenge is this:

Am I willing to remain “yoked” to him regardless of my circumstances and situations?

Remember, nothing we face, surprises God. He’s aware of everything, so why not rest in his presence and remain “yoked” to him?

I’m learning that my worst day with Jesus, (being yoked to him) is better than MY best day (outside of his yoke) without him!!!

We each face different situations, trials, and circumstances, yet our Savior, remains. Are you willing to give up “yourself”..and your "pride".. so you can take on his yoke, which is easy, and your burden will become lighter?

Isaiah 26:3 says,

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you."

I want to keep my mind steadfast on him....and I'm finding that when I'm "yoked" to him...this will happen. And, the natural result of keeping my mind steadfast on him, is PERFECT PEACE, regardless, of where my feet tread.

In closing, I want to share one of my FAVORITE scripture verses found in Lamentations 3:21-23 (The Message)

"I'll never forget the trouble, the utter lostness, the taste of ashes, the poison I've swallowed. I remember it all-oh, how well I remember---the feeling of hitting the bottom. But there's on e other thing I remember, and remembering, I keep a grip on hope;

God's loyal love couldn't have run out, his merciful love couldn't have dried up. They've created new every morning. How great your faithfulness!!! I'm sticking with God (I say it over and over) He's all I've got left."

Father, in Jesus name I pray that each day, as I travel the journey you've set before me my heart will long to remain "yoked" together with you. There will be days when I take your "yoke"off, and try my own path...yet I know, that each day, your mercies will be NEW for me, so that after I've fallen down, you will pick my up again helping me...find your "yoke" of peace. Amen.

Kim~

Resting.....in Him

This past week has been a week of many difficult situations which make up "life".  We each deal with them.  Sometimes, they trickle in like a small stream, and other times, it feels as though the flood-gates have been opened, and the water's of trials seem to be all consuming.

Our week has been one that has felt all consuming:

~My two Sister-in-laws (my two brother's wives) found out that their dad's have cancer

~a marriage is being tested

~my mom is dealing with health issues

~my dad went in for a heart stress test, and his results will require him to meet with the heart doctor first thing Monday morning.  (my dad also has cancer, and he had a 5 bypass open heart 5 yrs ago)

~trying to find a balance between work/life/ministry...especially when people are very needy and you know you need to show "tough love"..you know you need to draw some lines in the sand, and you pray and ask for wisdom

~walking with our daughter as she seeks God for his "plan for her life"

~walking our daughter through the "hurts" of lost friendships as she's determined, "I have decided to follow Jesus....and though none go with me, still I will follow."  

~helping our son develop a greater character as he now has a new head basketball coach and often the behavior from the  coach borderline abuse, rather than coaching.

We each deal with difficulties like these; for some the issues may be the same, for others, they may be different.  Regardless of our trail, we all face them.

As our family as been walking this road this past week, God gave me Psalms 62:1 to hold on to.  It says,

"My soul finds rest in God alone."

My mind may tell me to worry.......be filled with fear......but my soul beacons me to find rest!!

I've determined:

~regardless of the cancer outcomes...I WILL rest in him

~regardless of the marriage situation...I WILL rest in him

~regardless of what my mom finds out at the doctor...I WILL rest in him

~regardless of what the heart doctor tells my dad...I WILL rest in him

~regardless of work/life/ministry stresses...I WILL rest in him

~regardless of what direction God sends Ashley...I WILL rest in him

~regardless of lost friendships...I WILL rest in him

~regardless of how the coach treats Andrew...I WILL rest in him

It all comes down to my choice.  It's not easy to convince my mind of what my heart knows.  Yet, as I rest in Jesus, he can renew my mind.

“Lord, You have numbered my days. Only you know what the future holds. Right now I confess that I haven’t trusted you lately, and I ask for your forgiveness. I want this time in my life, especially this time, to honor you. I want to have the faith of a mustard seed. I want to look my giant square in the eyes and proclaim that You are the keeper of my soul. I need your help, I can’t face this on my own. So many times I have turned away from you, yet you patiently wait. You wait for me. I don’t understand why you love me so much. Yet here you are. Protect my thoughts, in those quiet moments when I feel alone, remind me that you are there. 365 times you said “Do not fear”, help me not to fear. Remind me that you are my voice of truth, no one elses voice matters but yours. I will praise you, no matter the outcome, but please guard my heart in the mean time.”

Weekend Re-Cap

Every Sunday evening the same thought goes through my head, "where did the weekend go?"; and this weekend was no different.  Aside from back-to-back weekend with rain storms, and hail, our weekend was pretty fun.

Ashley and I headed to the MOA   (if you've never been here...it's worth a trip)for some summer shopping; and what great deals we found.  If memory serves me right, we saved about as much as we spent!!  And yes, the trip included new shoes!!! (aren't these adorable????) 

We also did our weekly trek to the  grocery store. Out of curiosity, have any of you noticed the huge hike in dairy???  We spent some time doing "comparison shopping" and by doing so we saved over $70.00.  For me personally, I'm not a huge Walmart fan...I think it's because the Walmart closest to us is very dirty looking, the lights seem dim...and the crowd isn't to appealing.  But, we did find a new Walmart close to our church...and they have a full grocery store to boot, so this will now become of grocery store.  I couldn't believe how much we saved on certain items, and they were the same name brand that I was getting at my local grocery store.  

Today we had a Missionary in church who will be working with YWAM in Mexico, and to say this guy has a HUGE heart for the Lord would be an understatement.  What an amazing service we had today and I'm really looking forward to hearing great things God does in and through them while they are in Mexico.

After church we ventured to KFC...they are running this amazing Summer Special.  Ten piece chicken bucket, 3 large sides, 6 biscuits, and a huge jug of drink all for the low price of $19.99.  I think this may become our weekly tradition. Where else can you feed a family of 4 of $19.99 and have left overs???? Yum-oh.

This is the first weekend our temps have ventured about 60...so we took advantage of sitting out on the deck catching some rays!!!  I think I sat too long....I can feel the burn!  Yikes.

My lilac's have FINALLY bloomed as well; so Ashley and I were finally able to make a couple of arrangements. One for the kitchen table, and one for her room!!  They look SO pretty.

Tonight, we'll cook out on the grill, eat on the deck, and wrap up the evening play games, and perhaps watching a movie!!!

Tomorrow...it's back to work...and then the countdown....to next weekend!  I can hardly wait!

Be Blessed!

Kim~

A little French Country???

Back in the mid 90's..hunter green was a HUGE hit. I of course, jumped on board and bought a farmer's table, with a matching hutch, and at the time, was wonderful, however, after living with it for 12 years I've felt the need to upgrade. (hows that for a run-on sentence?) As things go, needing to upgrade really didn't fit into the budget...as I really couldn't find it within me to spend the money it would cost.

I've researched.....checked out blogs, decorating sites, checked books out of the library trying to figure out what I could do with my existing pieces. The thought of the time I'd need to invest to do a "redo" didn't seem so fun, and throw in the fact that my Dad does amazing work crafting wood furniture, cupboards, etc.....and knowing he's NOT a fan of painted wood....(furniture, or trim:-)....I couldn't decide what I should do.

I then found this amazing blog called:Nesting Place. (check it out here!) She's creative, crafty, and very inspiring. As I've read through her blog, I finally found the courage to "redo" my furniture.

Without further ado....here are two "before" shots.....please note..these photo's were taken BEFORE we had a digital camera, so I had to snap the pictures from my scrapbook.

This first picture clearly shows you WAY too much WOOD. Everything blends:



I'm sure Ashley will not be pleased that she happens to be in this photo...(sorry Ash)...but here's a glimpse at the table.


Ashley agreed to help me on this project, and although it took 8 hours...it was well worth it. We hauled everything, piece...by piece out to our garage where major work was taking place. We first sanded...(yes Dad..I said sanded...all the finish off of all of the wood) ...them primed...then painted one coat....and then the second coat.

Let's just say that we are glad we LOVE the finished product as we were so sore!!

And did I tell you that I only spent a total of $30.00!!! I was able to get the paint, table cloth, and runners all for $30.00 (I had the primer...and the pretty lamp, and plate and plate stand were my Mother's Day gifts)

Here's the finished work:








If you are wondering about the table cloth...I bought that by the yard, and ironed a hem. THANK-YOU Mom, for showing me how to do that, since I don't know how to sew. It was SO easy, and it looks like I hemmed the edges.

The last piece of this project is to find hardware for the hutch door, and I'm hoping to do that on Saturday.

Next, I'm wanting to make curtains...out of red/white toile. Of course, The Nester, has been so kind to give me some pointers!!
So it's out with traditional "country"...and French Country is slowing moving in.

Where is your FAITH...when your world is RoCkEd?

The month of May holds many things, for many people. For some, perhaps it's a reminder that spring has finally sprung! For others, it's a reminder of a birth of a child, are the union of a marriage.

For me, May 1st is a reminder of the day our world was RoCkEd. I remember, as if it were yesterday, where I was sitting, what I was doing, and the conversation I was having with my husband when we received the call.

We've traveled many roads with my Dad the past 5 years. In 2003, he went in for a simple "balloon" procedure for his heart, and rather than a simple procedure, we were preparing for open heart surgery. I remember that phone call too, as if it were yesterday.

I remember how everything seemed to move in slow motion, as I made my way home from work, packed my bags, and got the house in order for my dh and Andrew as they were staying behind.

I remember the LONG....5 + hour drive home as Ashley and I tried to prepare ourselves for the road ahead.

The surgery was a success....the destination was reached. However, the journey is what will always remain in my heart. It was the journey of waiting, hoping, trust, believing that God would NOT lead us this far to leave us.

We had a happy ending, as my Dad recovered. At times it seemed slow, but nonetheless, he did.

Living in another state makes it difficult to see my parents as often as we'd like, so when we were able to travel home, I'd often notice that my Dad didn't look good. His color was always off. He of course, caulked it up to his open heart....he said he was "still recovering".

I would often tell my Mom that by 3 years post open heart, my Dad should be looking better. In fact, my Grandfather had open heart six months after my Dad, and my Grandfather's recovery seemed much quicker, and easier.

This brings us to 2006. I remember the call...I remember my Mom telling me that she had made an appointment for my Dad with his doctor as she had found a lump on neck. (Dad being Dad, later shared that he'd noticed these lumps for months...but just didn't say anything. :-)

The doctor's appointment revealed my Mom's worst fears. The doctor called my parents at home, had them both get on the phone and he said, "It's cancer." (Leading up to the doctor's appointment my Mom had found a number of lumps on my Dad, and her mind was running wild with thoughts of Cancer.)

There were few details that my Mom could share, as my parents were now "waiting". It would be close to two weeks before they would meet with the Cancer doctor to determine what our next steps would be.

For those of you who have dealt with cancer (or any other crisis) you know how difficult the waiting can be. The days were long...our minds wondered, and were full of many fears, worries, questions and doubts.

The night my Mom called to share the devasting news, the Lord gave Ashley this verse for us to cling to:
2 Chronicles: 20 15-17 (NLT)

15 He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. 16 Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. 17 You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.' "

Ashley was dogmatic in her FAITH. Unwaving, unmoveable, as she beleived in her childlike FAITH that God WOULD DO what he told her he would do.

My Faith wasn't as strong....I wavered, I was allowing my thoughts and fears to move me...all over the board.

I remember having a conversation with my dh asking him how to handle what Ashley shared? What if she didn't hear the Lord? What if she was wrong? Would her faith and trust in the almighty forever be changed if her Grandpa WASN'T healed?

My dh encouraged me that we MUST hold fast to that which the Lord shared. So we did.

My Dad began his chemo treatment, and soon he was able to get on a three month cycle for his treatments. His counts each time continued to improve, and this past April, the doctors informed my parents that for now, my Dad will only need to return once every three months for blood work to check his counts. The doctors are hopefull that his counts will remain in the "safe zone", and we too are believing and trusting the Lord that they remain there as well.

We have NO guarentee's on this road to cancer that my Dad will not at some point, receive a set back. My Dad has CLL cancer for which there is NO cure.....we can simply only...try to treat it. BUT...we are guarenteed that our Savior, will walk this journey with us.

Cancer is truly an awful illness, and I'm sure theres not a person alive who hasn't been touched in one form or another by it's terrible grip. There is so much that cancer does.....but there is MORE that cancer cannot do:

What Cancer Can’t do

Cancer is so limited
It cannot cripple love
It cannot shatter hope
It cannot erode faith
It cannot eat away peace
It cannot destroy confidence
It cannot kill friendship
It cannot shut out memories
It cannot silence courage
It cannot invade the soul
It cannot reduce eternal life
It cannot quench the spirit
It cannot lesson the power of the resurrection

For now, we rest and rejoice that this cancer seems to be under control, resting knowing that God is with us through the bad news, as well as through the God news.

A dear friend of mine who lost her Mom to cancer emailed me these thoughts when we found out my Dad had cancer:

"you will see so many blessings during this journey you are on. Try not to focus on the cancer, but focus on what God's doing through this situation."

At the time I read those words, I didn't know how to respond to them......but today, I agree with those words. Each step we take, is a journey.....and God's asking me if I'm "willing" to look past my circumstances....and keep my eyes locked on him. I must choice..to trust his heart, when I cannot understand the direction his hand is leading me.

I must follow, close behind him....not running off ahead, or lagging behind...or running to the right or to the left.

God wants my heart....resting in his hand...and I know that as I do that, he will give me the strength I need....regardless of my circumstances.

Kim~

I Surrender All

Growing up I remember singing the song; "I Surrender All" on Sunday nights.  What powerful words this song holds as I'm willing to honestly practice what the song says.  

I've been following the blog of Angie Smith, wife of Todd Smith who sings with the Christian group called, "Selah".

The Smith family, truly surrendered all...all their hopes, their dreams, the wishes and desires.  Yet through their surrender, God's grace has sustained them.

The Smith's were Rocked to the Core, yet Jesus remained.

Please go here, to watch this powerful.....amazing video.  It's long, but so worth the watch as you will NEVER look at life the same way again.

May my hearts prayer be, "I surrender all"....regardless of my situation, or circumstances.

All to Jesus I surrender
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In his presence daily live.
I surrender all, I surrender all;
All to thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.
All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken,
Take me Jesus, take me now.
I surrender all, I surrender all;
All to thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.

Taking a stand.....

There's a country western song that has the following lyrics:

"You've got to stand for something or you'll fall for anything."

Although the above lyrics are from a secular song, they are so fitting for today.

Tomorrow, all across America, tens of thousands of High Schools will be participating in an event, that many are unaware of. The event is called:

"D*ay of S*ilence"

This is a day that is set aside for students and teachers who participate in the ho*mos*e*xual lifestyle to express themselves on the school property. Students/teachers will be arriving at schools all across our country wearing g*a*y rights t-shirts, and many will have their mouths taped shut making a statement that they WILL not talk all day at school.

Recently I went to this website here to see if our son's H.S. would be participating in this event. As I figured, his H.S. was listed as a participant. Upon finding this information I called our district office and was told that no schools in our district would be participating and that the information I received was wrong. I graciously thank the woman I talked too and assumed this event would not be happening.

Last night, Andrew came home from school and told us that his H.S. IS in fact participating. He said there were posters, and fliers everywhere explaining the events of the day. After hearing this I called the district office again first thing this morning. Of course, their response was, "our schools aren't participating." To which I said, yes they are.

I was told that someone would be calling me back to let me know the districts findings. Of course, 3pm came and went and I hadn't heard from the H.S. so I placed another call with the district. Within minutes the H.S. principle called me stating that by law, the H.S. doesn't have a choice in this matter (I'm going to be checking this statement out) and that by law the school has to allow this organization to do what they plan to do during school tomorrow.

The principle was quick to tell me that they've instructed the students that they MUST respond in class if asked a question, as not to distrupt the class. Yet, understanding the rebellious nature in kids, I'm sure the principles wishes will not be met.

From the research I've done, it's clear that most H.S. want this day to fly "under the radar" so to speak. H.S. don't want parents to know about this out of fear they may pull their children from school. Which is what we plan to do tomorrow.

Our H.S. is state funded, and each time our son misses school, the school does not receive funding that day. I wonder what would happen if the true church rose up and kept their children home and funding was cut for that particular day?

The Mi*s*sion Am*erica website also provides tools for letters that can be presents to the school stating WHY your child will not be in school. To see this letter, you can go here.

It's time that the true church stands up. It's time we draw a line in the sand. It's time we stop making everyone "feel good" in church! There is a right and a wrong.....even though so many of our churches are blurring the lines just so they can draw the masses.

Matthew 7:13 says, NLT
"you can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way."

Church....the way is narrow....NOT wide and it's time that we, (christians) stand for purity and morality. There is a black and white....wrong and right.....and if we do not help our children understand this, I shutter at the future of our churches.

Trust me when I say I'm all for free speech...however, free speech is often given to everyone, except for Christians.

It's time to be Intolerant...not in a bully type of way, but by being as wise as serpants, yet as harmless as doves!!

My hat goes off to all of you Home School Mom's!!! Seriously!!!! This morning my dh and I were talking about this very issue...and the fact that if we had young children today, we'd home school them for sure. I know there are many good public schools, but I feel they are in the minority. May God richly bless each of you who Home School and make huge sacrifices to do so!!

We MUST protect our children.....their body, souls, and mind!!

Hillsong-Stand

We sing this song often in church and it truly blessed my heart. My prayer today is that:

I’ll stand
With arms high and heart abandoned
In awe of the one who gave it all
I’ll stand
My soul longs to you surrender it all


For when I'm clinging to the hem of HIS garment.....my F-A-I-T-H is being lifted up!




You stood before creation
Eternity in your hand
You spoke the earth into motion
My soul now to stand
You stood before my failure
And carried the cross for my shame
My sin weighed upon your shoulders
My soul, now to stand

So what could I say?
And what could I do?
But offer this heart oh God
Completely to you

So I’ll walk upon salvation
Your spirit alive in me
This life to declare your promise
My soul now to stand

So what could I say?
And what could I do?
But offer this heart oh God
Completely to you

I’ll stand
With arms high and heart abandoned
In awe of the one who gave it all
I’ll stand
My soul longs to you surrender it all
I am is yours

I have to believe....

God knows all, and he see’s all. Everything…the good, the bad..and the ugly. God’s desire for us is that we simply: B-E-L-I-E-V-E.

Psalm 121
1 I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.


Webster defines believe as: accept as true

God’s word defines believe as found in Psalms 106:12:
Then they believed his promises and sang his praise.

Webster defines truth as: a fact that has been verified

God’s word defines truth as found in Psalm 25:5
“guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior,
And my hope is in you all day long.

Webster defines faithful as: steadfast in affection or allegiance;

God’s word defines faithful as found in Psalm 117:2
“For great is his love towards us, and the faithful-ness of the
Lord endures FOREVER.

Webster defines refuge as: safety: a safe place

God’s word defines refuge as found in 2 Samuel 22:31
“As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless.
He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.

If you are walking on the mountain top…he’s there.

If you are walking in the valley….he’s there too!

God is FOREVER faithful…..rest in him!!

>

Does anybody hear her?

Just a quick update on M as many of you have asked, and continue to pray.

A group of us did gather at M's home for prayer and God truly moved in powerful ways. We prayed against the spirit of lies...deception rebellion...etc...and that TRUTH would be revealed.

M came home last night.......and she went back to school today.

J received a call from the school telling her that M had cut herself!! Of course, since this happened at school, the authorities MUST be involved. M is now in an ambulance on her way back to the hospital.

We prayed that lies.....deception....rebellion would cease......and today...God is answering prayers as these things are being exposed. And, exposed in a very public manner.

J is of course exhausted, and very weary...BUT...God is working, and moving...and we WILL see victory!!

Being Jesus' Skin

Matthew 25:40 says,
'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

God's desire is that our lives are so in tune with him, that everything we do, everything we say, and everywhere our foot treads.....we are being open, and sensitive to the leading of the Lord.

This past weekend, we were in awe of what God's doing.

Each Saturday my dh and I lead a (prayer) counseling time at our church for those within/outside our body who have deep spiritual needs. Currently, we've been meeting weekly with a beautiful young married couple and we've been in awe to watch as God has been changing their hearts, lives, and marriage. The husband, grew up in a broken home and as been overjoyed in his new found faith.

Recently, the husbands sister has been in awe at the changes she's seen in her brothers life that she too decide she needed to receive ministry. Yesterday, we met with this gal....and honestly, I've NEVER seen someone SO ready to accept Jesus as her Lord and Savior!! This sweet gal weeped through our entire time with her, and she was SO glad to feel God' love, forgiveness, and freedom.

And, what a HUGE spiritual boost for my dh and I as there is NOTHING like leading someone to the Lord. So often, we get so busy with "our lives" that our focus is misplaced. God wants us to be his hand extended......he wants us to be Jesus' skin...reaching out to the lost, the hurting, the downcast, the brokenhearted, offering them Jesus.

Following our morning sessions, we headed to the hospital to visit with J and M. We spend close to 3 hours listening, laughing, crying, reading scriptures and praying with this family. M seems to be doing better, although we will not know more until she meets with her doctor tomorrow. She may be released by Wed, or she could be admitted for up to 2 weeks.

Our prayer team was scheduled to gather at J's home tonight for prayer, however, J woke up in the middle of the night with the flu, so as for right now, we are going to reschedule our prayer time with J at her home.

Please continue to pray for both J and M.....God has a great work to do.....yet greater is he that is in me, than he that is in the world.

Thank-you...each and everyone of you who have been so willing to pray for my friend and her daughter.

God has an amazing plan for M....

Happy Valentine's Day

I Corinthians 13:13 says:
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these…is LOVE.” (niv)

Imagine with me if you will, your child bringing you a heart that they so carefully cut out; and they ask you to write:

“Why do you Love me?”

As you ponder that question you begin to write,

I LOVE you because you are cute.

Then you stop and think, “if you were ever hurt and your face were to be scared, I’d still LOVE you.”

You then erase cute, and write that you LOVE them because they are kind. But wait a minute, they aren’t ALWAYS kind, so you erase that word too.

You then write that you LOVE them because they LOVE Jesus. But after pondering those words you realize that perhaps, some day they will be faced with many decisions, and for a while, they may fall away from God for a time, so you erase that word as well.

You finally decide that the best thing to write is:

I LOVE them, because they are MINE.

We are all so BLESSED that this is the very way Jesus would describe why he LOVE us. Because of our sin nature, we all have imperfections, shortcomings, faults, and often…(sometimes TOO often) we wander away from the heart of our Father for a season doing our own thing, or going our own way.

Yet, Jesus still LOVES us……why you ask?????

Because we are HIS!

May the realization that Jesus LOVES you with an everlasting LOVE, flood your heart and soul today!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

A Random Post

It's been a while since I've updated my blog, so today, you will find a random list of thoughts.

I've been sick for the past week, starting last Sunday when we came home from church and I found myself taking a 5 hour nap...which is SO unlike me.

I made it through Monday and Tuesday, but by Wednesday, I hardly made it through the work day and quickly found myself home in bed. And in bed, I remained for the next 3 days!

It has been YEARS, since I've felt THIS sick.....aching from head to toe, and exhausted out of my mind. So exhausted that I've slept over 46 hours in the last 3 days.....and I'm beginning to feel SO much better. There has been SO much crud going around, and it's never fun when it hits you.

Adding to not feeling good, it's been SO cold here again. Today it was -18 BELOW zero this morning......and that's just WAY to cold!! brr....

Thankfully the rest of my family have NOT been sick, and they've been staying away from me as much as they can. Tomorrow is back to work, and I'm preparing myself as I know I will certainly be feeling weak as I venture to endure an entire day of work, considering the fact that I've been in bed for so many days.

I'd truly covet your prayers.........

This week is Valentine's.....and I LOVE preparing little gift bags for my family and this year is no different.  Since Ashley is gone, I will be sure to include her gift in a small care package that I will be mailing to her in Maui.  (Only 18 more days till she's back in Maui)  I also enjoy mailing Valentine's to my husbands office...each day...during the week of Valentine's......I'm also looking forward to a special night out..just the two of us.

Praying that each of you have had a great weekend, and if any of you are sick....know that I'm feeling for you!!