Seeing Him, Knowing Him...A Mother's Journey

Moving to a new address...

2011-12-17T08:17:00.000-06:00

I am moving my blog thoughts and posts to a new site. If interested you can follow me here....http://heartmommy.blogspot.com/.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T21:15:00.000-06:00

Today was glorious! It started with a 5 mile run with three great friends. I came home to the smells of coffee and bacon cooking on the griddle. Ryan had made breakfast and the boys were all snuggled up on the couch with their big cousins. After a leisure morning we went to my in-laws for a full day of family, food, relaxing and laughing. We enjoyed wonderful food, a beautiful table and headed out for a walk in 65 degree weather. The kids played together beautifully and the grown-ups got to laugh and reminisce about Auntie Lois and all the treasured Thanksgiving traditions we have.

We have more family time ahead with my side of the family. We have more football and friends to look forward to as well. The abundance of grace poured out on this family is overwhelming. God is so obviously good to us and I am so, so, so thankful.

This heart of mine is still in training. I know that as I learn how to give thanks when goodness and grace is obvious that my heart and mind are learning how to give thanks for times ahead when grace looks unexpected. I remember that He asks me to give thanks all the time.

I read one time that when we presume something is bad we are really trying to be God. Remember back in the garden. Adam and Eve wanted to have the knowledge of good and evil to be more like God, as if His proclaimed goodness wasn't to be trusted. We still fall into the same sin when we judge something as good or bad without knowing the past, present and future. I think that's why He asks us to be continually giving thanks. It is an act of trust. In essence, when we say thank you to God we are saying, "I trust your love, your goodness and Who You Are no matter what."

These words from Colossians say it better than I ever could...

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts since as members of one body you were called to peace, AND BE THANKFUL. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs WITH GRATITUDE IN HEARTS TO GOD. Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, GIVING THANKS TO GOD THE FATHER THROUGH HIM." Colossians 3:15-17

and,

"Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. We pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way. Bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you will have great endurance and patience and JOYFULLY GIVING THANKS TO THE FATHER who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light." Colossians 1: 9-12

I am forever thankful for...

~salvation. He rescued me from the dominion of darkness and brought me into the kingdom of the son He loves. In whom, is redemption the forgiveness of sins. (Col 1:13-14)
~books that inspire
~family that I love
~poppyseed bread
~lunch with my mommy
~shopping with my mommy
~Nannie and Hallie making up stories
~My kids running with great big smiles to see Nannie
~Zac's thanksgiving play at school
~holding Ryan's hand
~A back rub from Ryan
~Cousins playing the Princess Pink Restaurant
~Zac saying, "I'm thankful God had me adopted to you, mommy."
~My children
~meeting Melia's cardiologist. It was exactly the meeting I needed.
~Hope, no fear.
~friends I can count on
~comforts of home.

Passing along the gift of thanks...

2011-11-05T22:15:00.000-05:00

One of the things I love about my job as a PA is patient education. I love to explain how the body works, why I am prescribing a certain regimen or medicine and especially what lifestyle changes may help improve well-being.

Well, this whole gratitude thing has started to overflow into my daily clinical practice. There are so many, many people living out of control lives with hurts, habits and hang-ups that disrupt sleep, relationships, jobs...the list goes on and on.

My approach first addresses a person's physical needs, immediate and long term. Sometimes this involves medicine for a multitude or reasons. But, then I also address a person's spiritual and emotional needs. One of the easiest ways to approach this sometimes sensitive topic is to invite my patients to start a gratitude journal. I have not run across one person who isn't willing to entertain the idea of giving thanks for small things and big things and everyday things in their lives. Of course, the act of giving thanks begs the question, "Who are you thanking?"

So, time will tell if this practice and these conversations impact my patients for the kingdom, but I certainly have seen it transform things in my mind, heart and life. I hope it will do the same for others. I believe it can.

This gift God has given us in inviting us to give thanks all the time and in all circumstances is part of our freedom in Christ. We are set free from worry about tomorrow or regret about yesterday when our mind is fixed on giving thanks for every small detail about today. Sure, if a person has spent the majority of their lives fixed on worry, regret, anger....then the transformation of the mind will take time and practice. But, that is what the gratitude list is all about. Practicing and in doing so, being transformed.

We have had a lot of things in our family lately that could and should, according to the world, bring fear and anxiety. But, I am thankful that God is good and thankful that He is faithful and thankful that His plans for me and my family are based on eternal purposes and He acts in love and thankful that He works all things together for our good. Here are the latest gifts He has given...

~more days with my mother in law, Jean
~cousin time in Kansas
~calm, sure faith seen in my father-in-law
~seeing a good friend, healed of cancer
~first Husker game with Hallie and Jacob
~Zac's hugs and positive attitude
~a healthy report on Melia
~warm house when the wind blows
~wrestling, giggling brothers
~coming to mom for hugs when the wrestling gets out of hand
~coming to mom for a hug when Hallie bit her tongue
~dinner with our friends, celebrating our dear friend's birthday as one of the family
~hockey game with the kids
~Zac falling asleep in the car.
~Jacob's last words tonight, "I want Husker gear for Christmas, #22" (after a loss)

...the list goes on and on and makes me smile every time!

Thankful for a grown up recipe that everyone will eat!

2011-10-20T20:30:00.000-05:00

I found this recipe on the pioneer woman website. I usually brace myself for the complaints I get when trying a new recipe, especially one that is "fancy" and not specifically geared toward kids. Well, let me tell you this one surprised me. I had no complaints and it is now one of Jacob's favorite dishes. We call it...

Three Cheese Pasta Shells

Ingredients

8 ounces, weight Jumbo Pasta Shells
30 ounces, weight Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese
8 ounces, weight Parmesan Cheese, Grated, Divided
1/2 cup Grated Romano Cheese
1 whole Egg
12 leaves Basil, Chiffonade
2 Tablespoons Minced Parsley
Salt And Pepper, to taste
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1/2 whole Medium Onion, Chopped
5 cloves Garlic, Minced
1/2 pound Italian Sausage
1/2 cup Red Wine
1 whole 28 Ounce Can Crushed Tomatoes
1 whole 15-ounce Can Crushed Tomatoes
2 Tablespoons Sugar
1/2 teaspoon Salt
2 Tablespoons Minced Parsley

Preparation Instructions

Cook pasta shells for half the cooking time; make sure not to overcook. Drain and rinse in cool water. Set aside.

Heat olive oil in large skillet or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic and saute for a minute or two. Add Italian sausage and brown, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Pour in red wine and let it cook for a minute or two.

Pour in cans of crushed tomatoes and stir. Add sugar and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check for seasonings; can add crushed red peppers if you like a little heat.

In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, half the Parmesan, Romano, egg, salt and pepper, basil, and 2 tablespoons parsley. Stir until combined.

To assemble, coat the bottom of a baking dish with sauce. Fill each half-cooked shell with the cheese mixture. Place face down on the sauce. Repeat with shells until cheese mixture is gone. Top shells with remaining sauce. Sprinkle on extra Parmesan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Serve with crusty French bread.

Thankful no matter what...

2011-10-13T12:35:00.000-05:00

~thankful that I am lonely when Ryan is gone. It means I know real love.
~thankful when I am sick. It reminds me that one day I will never be sick again.
~thankful when I repent to my kids after being a grouch (sin). It reminds me I am forgiven in Christ.
~thankful for sleeping alone. It creates in me a compassion for my daughter in China that leads to prayer for her.

The Spirit is opening my eyes to see a reason to always, always give thanks and see beauty in ashes. Thankful.

Thank God for Sick Days

2011-10-11T08:50:00.000-05:00

I'm constantly refining and relearning the purposeful act of giving thanks at all times and in all circumstances. The Lord reminded me just yesterday in 1 Thes 5:18 that it is His will that I give thanks in all circumstances. I am thankful to be thankful, that He is giving me eyes to see Him in all things. Truly, eucharisteo, the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving for undeserved grace, brings joy!

Yesterday I was sick, Hallie was sick, the boys were sick...sick, sick, sick! Let me tell you how thankful I am for sick days...

~slowing down
~Hallie home from school, snuggling on the couch
~painting toenails
~her hands playing with my hair
~each of us doing devotions on the couch together
~reading our books together on the couch in quiet
~Her book choice, "Little House in the Big Woods"
~cleaning out her closet together
~laundry done (all of it, for at least 4 hours)
~Zac's bravery at the dentist. Two teeth pulled without a tear
~medicine to lessen pain and an amazingly skillful dentist
~Jacob's attitude. He rarely complains.
~Watching Jacob construct lego masterpieces at the after school club
~Our home. Quiet, safe, peaceful
~Phone calls from Ryan throughout the day.

I keep thinking that God is training my heart and mind to think about things above, not earthly things so that I might keep the faith no matter what this life throws at me in the future. I am thankful he is training me to rejoice, be filled with joy and celebrate Him even on sick days. Yesterday sure was great!

Marathon Analogy

2011-10-03T21:17:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I ran the Omaha Marathon in honor of my dear daughter, Melia. It's no wonder Paul compares life and faith to running a race. It's no wonder the pastor at our church used a marathon to describe parenting. It's a great analogy, and running that race has really impacted my perspective on life. So, here goes...

First, you have to decide to commit to the training and the race. Isn't this the first step in making anything happen. Committing to something that you know will be hard and painful at times (like parenting, adopting a child with a heart condition, marrying someone, following Christ, being a friend....) is difficult. But, setting your mind on things above and not on earthly desires and fear enabled me to make the commitment to run the race.

Second, is the training. Ugh! 12 miles, 16 miles (in the humidity), 18 miles, 20 miles (with shoes that hurt my feet)...this is the hard part. Staying the course and following through when life is uncomfortable, hot, humid and you are running on and on by yourself. I am thankful that most of my training was done with friends that were incredibly encouraging and motivating but there were hours that I was thankful to have Jesus with me when I otherwise would have been all alone. And, isn't that important. When I am faced with challenging parenting moments or frustrated relationships or health concerns...it is good to have Jesus and friends that will listen, encourage, motivate, pray and run alongside me. One of the greatest encouragements was when I was headed out for a run in the rain at 5 a.m. and Ryan says from bed, "Wow, you are amazing. I am so proud of you." (Then, he returned to his slumber :)

Third, the taper. Ahh. The calm before the storm. Isn't it sweet when life calms down for awhile and we can really bask in the rest God gives. The two weeks before the run I was tapering and still concerned about my leg hurting but I also enjoyed more relaxed runs with my friends and a physical therapy friend gave my legs some treatments. During this time I really valued the knowledge from Kelly, a marathon trainer and from my PT friends. It reminds me that we need to stop and listen to the wisdom of others instead of barreling on ahead with our own plans and ideas. Their advice helped me to have a successful race and I am grateful.

Race Day! The start of the race was exciting. I had my tribe of running buddies with me and we all ran the first 13 miles together. They kept my mind off my legs and were a constant source of encouragement. They were in there running the race with me. We all need people that will sweat and run the race of life with us.

After mile 13, I continued on my own but not for long. My family, all wearing pink shirts for Melia, cheered me on at mile 6, 12, 15, 20 and 26. They woke up early, the kids dressed in the car and they tromped all around downtown Omaha, just to support me. Do I have an amazing family or what? This reminds me of the importance of family. No matter what, they will always be my family and they will always cheer me on in life.

Then, at mile 16 another friend, who left her family for a few hours on a Sunday, joined me to run 6 grueling miles. I felt my legs slowing down, but her physical presence inspired me to keep running. She jumped in with me when I was feeling tired and worn out. I can remember feeling this way many times with my children, sometimes with my job or other relationships. This is the point at which you want to slow down or maybe even quit, but then someone comes along and makes all the difference in the world. At one point I almost tripped over her but she still stayed right by my side to run with me. Do you ever do that? When someone tries to help, we push them out of the way because we really don't want to keep running the race, but a true friend doesn't let us quit!

Then, came mile 23. At this point I was by myself and due to a bathroom break my family could not make it to mile 23. And then, a HILL! Seriously! I am hot, my hips and feet hurt, I am all alone and I have to climb a hill! Yep, sometime life is like that. So, I ran (if you can call it that) up the hill and you know what awaited me at the top? An encouraging spectator. I don't know who she is or anything about her, but God knew I needed her kindness at just that moment. Don't you just love it when God drops unexpected blessings in your life in the midst of trials and pain?

Mile 25, a surprise! One of my running buddies was still around and even though her legs were hurting she ran 25-26 with me. She did not let her pain stop her from encouraging me. This is a good reminder to me that even when life is not perfect I need reach out and be a blessing to those around me.

Finally, 26.2 The finish! Cheers, hugs, a medal. That is the welcome home we will get from Jesus when we run the race of life faithfully~He is waiting with cheers from angels, hugs and a reward. Oh, what a day that will be! (And, I imagine my knees won't hurt the next day either.)

So, there you have it. Life as a Marathon.

Fully living

2011-09-21T08:53:00.000-05:00

I was challenged through some different readings yesterday and by the Holy Spirit to embrace the full life right now. The only way to really live fully is with an attitude of gratitude for the moments. When we wish for things to come we are silently telling God, "What you have given today isn't enough." When we regret or exalt the past we are telling God, "What you have given today isn't enough."

Colossians 2:6-7 says, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught and overflowing with thankfulness."

He wants us to know and live the full life and so a little burble of thanks now and then won't cut it. Gushing out thanks constantly renews our mind, fixes it on Jesus and gives us peace (Phil 4:4-8, Hebrews 12:2, Romans 12:2)

~April's jelly beans rattling in the booster seat

~the smell of clean clothes fresh out of the dryer

~Ryan's kind, affirming words about my mothering

~a big hug from Jake after a hard lesson learned

~Understanding God better through parenting

~My mom's voice and laugh in the morning

~the smell of coffee in the morning

~shiny floors

~folding laundry (yep, I said it)

~Hannah's text message

~Filling up, resting in God's Word at Bible study

Scripture Memory

2011-09-19T11:51:00.001-05:00

I am so blessed to be digging in deep to Colossians. The Holy Spirit is taking Paul's words to the faithful followers at Colosse and impressing them on my heart in Omaha, NE. He is reminding me to remember the freedom I have when because I have chosen to trust in Christ. It is a beautiful thing that God is doing in me day by day. Slow, but good.

Read THIS quick post about Scripture memory for more inspiration today.

Saturday Reflections...

2011-09-10T08:22:00.000-05:00

Lord, thank you for...

~little boys doing somersaults at football practice.

~Steam rising from the lake early in the morning

~Mama deer with her babies on my run

~Those hugs from Ryan I just melt into

~Brester kids calling Ryan, "Mr. Honker"

~Flashlight tag in the backyard

~Hallie's reputation at school...helpful, kind, smart

~laughing

~Trust and optimism seen in my friend, Mindy.

~Saturday morning cartoons

~Seeing "MOM" written at the top of Zac's school paper with hearts and stars around it

~Hallie's attitude about schoolwork

~Jake's leadership at football

Have you considered adoption?

2011-09-07T09:14:00.000-05:00

God is so good to us. While we were yet sinners He died for us. Why would he do such a thing? Because His love for us is crazy. It doesn't make sense to the world and it is extravegent. Christ didn't listen to the temptations of Satan and this world, he knew that love would cost Him, but he did it anyway so that we could be his forever. Temporary pain for an eternal gain.

And this gracious gift is without any strings attached. But, when we believe we are changed. We become a new creation with new thoughts and Christ begins to transform our minds and actions so that our desires are his desires, our hurt is his hurt and our longings are his longings. We accept the gift and in doing so become more like him. "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." 2 Cor 3:18

Certainly, scripture tells us of how passionate God is about the orphan. "A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families." Psalm 68:5-6

So, when we take the orphan in as one of our own we emulate Christ. There are huge unknowns when you say yes to the orphan and invite them to be called your son or daughter. But, if we trust in the Lord we can be sure he will supply all we need to care for and passionately love these children. As believers we do not live with a spirit of fear, we can trust in the goodness of God. We become more like Christ when we care for the orphan. It does not make sense to a selfish world, but it is a thing of beauty. When our hearts are burdened for the fatherless, just like the Lord's heart, we should be moved to action. Not convenient action, but something that requires more of us than we think we have. When we are weak, He is strong!

If any of these words or anything in your past has sparked something in you to adopt, please don't ignore the calling of God. Have you, as a person transformed in mind and action by Christ, considered adoption?

Running for Melia

2011-09-02T20:27:00.001-05:00

I wanted to let you know about an organization called, Brittany's Hope.

Ryan and I were introduced to this non-profit organization through our adoption agency, Holt International, after we were matched with our dear daughter, Melia.

Melia has been diagnosed with a complicated congenital heart disease and because of this diagnosis she is considered to be a special needs child in the adoption world. Brittany's Hope helps place children with all kinds of special needs into forever families and they support orphanages around the world that are caring for these wonderful children who have not yet been adopted.

Brittany's Hope offered us a matching grant for our adoption if we were willing to raise awareness for their organization and for the needs of special kiddos around the world.

On September 25th I am going to run the Omaha Marathon in honor of my daughter, Melia and to raise funds for Brittany's Hope. If you would like to contribute please click HERE. One possible suggestion is $26 for each mile I run, but any amount will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you, dear friends, for joining me in our effort to bring Melia home and help these amazing, special needs children all around the world.

New Picture!!

2011-08-31T06:39:00.001-05:00

Yesterday our adoption agency sent us an updated picture of our precious little girl. Look at her! She is walking all by herself now and lives with a family that has three other children. She is the youngest of the four, just like she will be when she gets home.

Right now we are waiting for this pesky piece of paperwork from China called the LOA (Letter of Acceptance). My hope is that we will have the LOA by my birthday in late September. Once we get that we file an I-800 form with the US government. I hope that will take less than 4 weeks to get back. Then, we send a letter to China for travel approval (4 weeks) and then we get issued a travel date (3-6weeks later). I think that puts us in late December at the earliest and maybe into next year for travel. I really, really, really hope God's plan is for her to be with us before the end of the year. But, no matter what, all is grace and I am thankful today for her picture. They even reported to us that she can say mama and baba (dada in Chinese) and looks at our photo album almost every day!

~thankful for her little fingers

~thankful for her toddling walk

~thankful for a clean home for her to live in

~thankful she has warm clothes to wear

~thankful she is known and loved by her Heavenly Father

~thankful that her brothers and sister pray for her

~thankful for grandparents that share our joy over a new picture

~thankful for friends who delight to hear our updates

Reading through Colossians

2011-08-23T20:51:00.000-05:00

God has brought me to the book of Colossians for scripture memory lately. By focusing on memorizing just one verse every day and repeating all the previous verses each day the Word is coming alive in a whole new way. God's merciful, endless grace poured out and described by Paul in Colossians calls me to thankfulness.

Most recently I have been concentrating on the first part of Chapter 2. Paul is struggling to reach the world with the awesome message of salvation and rejoices in the labor. I am challenged by this devotion to people he knows and even those that have not met him personally. He struggles with the energy of Christ to reach the lost for the glory of God. (1:29-2:2)

Do I rejoice in my light and momentary burdens in suburbia? Do I complain and throw little tantrums when my children test me? Do I elevate stuff over relationships? I wish my answer was no, but far to often I find myself compelled by selfish desire with complaints instead of praise.

But, praise the Lord! Even when my humanity rears it's ugly sin nature, God's grace is poured out into my life. There is conviction from the Holy Spirit that redirects me and illuminates the narrow way. I am so thankful for grace that leads me in everlasting ways instead of down a dead-end, selfish road. Grace gets me back on track.

Paul goes on to write that he delights in how orderly the Christ followers are and how firm their faith is. This reminds me that order and discipline is part of me staying on the right path. (2:5) Order in my daily life helps me so that I will not be deceived and led astray by the world's temptations. So, I am thankful for order in my life and how God works gloriously in the routine of life to show me the way.

Thankful for these routines:

~Waking for an early morning run

~The constancy of meeting these women for running

~The kids doing their morning chores...bed, clothes, teeth

~Unhurried breakfast

~The rhythm of school days

~A kiss from my husband before me leaves for the day

~At least two calls from Ryan every day

~"I love you" before we go to sleep every night

~Church every Sunday

~No TV on Sundays

~Sitting around the table as a family at dinner

~Bedtime story every night with Daddy reading in our big bed

~Scripture memory while I drive

1000 Gifts

2011-08-15T11:15:00.001-05:00

There is nothing more powerful than seeing Jesus. You might ask, "Katie, have you really seen him? Seriously?" My answer to you is YES! When we see his bountiful, overflowing, never-ending gifts poured out so freely and lavishly over us every day we encounter him and we get glimpses of him. Counting these blessings has opened my eyes to see Him and his grace and mercy.

Although I may not actually count them past 1,000 I will keep counting them in my heart and mind because this acknowledgment of His gifts is life giving. My life has been changed for good, not because everything always goes my way and not because my eyes don't see the evils and heartache in this world, but because the light of his presence is brighter. When you count the gifts and see him in all things then even hurt and sadness gets consumed with the light of His love.

1 John 4: 12, 18 comes to mind..."No one has seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us...There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear..."

When I see the love expressed so freely from friends, family, co-workers and even strangers I give thanks. Why? Because I am seeing God and this practice of acknowledging his goodness drives out fears I might have about the future. His love poured out consumes evil and hurt. Praise the Lord!

991. Seeing Jesus in my friend, Rhonda. Her faith is strong as she deals with her son's cancer. I have seen Jesus!

992. My ten running friends gathering together to celebrate Melia and offer generous gifts of love, support and friendship at her baby shower. I have seen Jesus!

993. Ryan's parents sacrificially caring for his 97 year old great aunt as she painfully gets ready to exit this life and enter the presence of Jesus. I have seen Jesus!

994. Watching all three of my boys play catch and Ryan saying yes over and over again to, "Dad do you want to play catch? Are you ready?" I have seen Jesus!

995. My parents offering to give up their dreams and travel plans to go with us to China, or stay at home with Zac while we travel. Whatever we want, they said. I have seen Jesus!

996. My friend calling me today to tell me she needed to repent of the thoughts and words she so honestly shared with me and then tell me the beautiful lesson of love that God revealed to her. I have seen Jesus!

997. Watching our three kids each show their friends such polite hospitality at the movie night we had on the driveway. I have seen Jesus!

998. Listening to the encouraging, authentic, convicting words from our pastor this Sunday that drew my attention to 1 John. I have seen Jesus!

999. Meeting a stranger at the pool and sharing our adoption journeys and God's provision all in 45 minutes. I have seen Jesus!

1000. Feeling the breeze, listening to my kids play with toys in the front yard while swinging on the front porch swing in 75 degree weather and reading my bible. I have seen Jesus!

So, #1000 is not some over the top gift that anyone would even normally pay attention to, but that's the point. It's all grace. It's all a gift. So, I will continue to see Him and know Him in everything, for His glory alone!

Look who's seven!

2011-08-12T22:12:00.000-05:00

So thankful that seven years ago God graced us with the gift of Jacob.

Back To School

2011-08-10T21:30:00.000-05:00

The Third Grader
The Kindergartener
The First Grader

August 10th and we are back to school in Millard! The summer was absolutely wonderful with the kids and I am sad to see it come to a end. BUT, I am also excited to see what unfolds this next year with all three of my big kids in school!

Yesterday, the boys and I went to the park one last time and my heart hurt a little thinking about not having them at home today. But, at the same time I gave thanks that God was giving me another daughter to love and care for at home in just a few short months (I hope).

Last night we had our back to school dinner inspired by my dear friend, Jen in Texas.

We had three-cheese stuffed pasta, broccoli and carrots, strawberries and sparkling grape juice! We set goals for the year, worked on memorizing our verse for the year (Psalm 121:8), wrote prayers out for our teachers and then daddy prayed over each child and gave a toast. Simple and wonderful!

After dinner, Grammy and Grandpa joined us for ice cream sundaes to wish the kids well on their first day of school.

This morning I woke to happy, excited children and everyone was ready to head out the door on time at 8:00. Each of the kids had a great day and is eager to go back to school tomorrow. I am so thankful!

976. Trips to the park on scooters

977. Best friends

978. Zac's confidence in meeting a new friend as he waited in line to go into school

979. No tears, all joy!

980. Phone calls to grandparents

981. Jacob's happiness about being calendar helper next week

982. Brushing Hallie's beautiful, golden hair before school

983. Daddy making eggs for breakfast

984. Thoughtful prayers for the kids teachers from the kids' hearts...patience, peace and health

985. Singing our memory verse at the table together.

986. Eating ice cream with Grammy and Grandpa

987. Talking to my mom, uninterrupted, while the kids were at school.

988. My mom's inspirational ideas

989. Friends calling to see how the lone mommy was doing...just fine!

990. Excitement about tomorrow.

A Mother's Love

2011-07-29T21:43:00.000-05:00

Today, my friend sent me a link to a wonderful editorial about motherhood. It speaks of the selfless love that is required of a mother and how the world so often directly and indirectly opposes that kind of love. I am by no means a perfectly, selfless mother so the article challenged and encouraged me. I hope you might also read it.

Because we are close to bringing our daughter Melia home, of course my thoughts went to her after reading the article. You see, Melia has some known congenital heart defects. That "known" information can seem overwhelming if I let the world influence my passion and emotions. After all, it might seem to some like a lot to take on. But, it is only because it is what is known. The unknown is in God's hands. Her future, however many days and years she has is in the hands of a faithful Father who says He IS love. He can not operate out of anything but love for my family, my children, because He IS love.

And, the reality is that all my days, all my other childrens' days are unknown to me, but known by this good, loving God that I have come to trust. He says, and I believe Him, that He goes before all things and in Him all things hold together (Col 1:17). He says that He empowers us to labor and struggle with all His energy which powerfully works in us (Col 1:29).

Because of the hope in Him and the love from Him I joyfully labor in the opportunity to pour out myself for one of my callings...motherhood. I rejoice because I have discovered over time that dying to myself, living like Christ, actually brings blessing, joy and peace. So, with a thankful heart for the overflowing love I give thanks for...

966. Jacob's caution 967. Riding a roller coaster with Mr. Adventure, Zac
968. Hallie choosing to be with us over friends
969. Ryan's spontaneity...Adventureland on a Tuesday!
970. Melia's inquistive look in the picture I stare at each morning.

971. That God knows the future and is love

972. A full day of patients at work

973. Talking about gratitude journals with one of my patients

974. A phone call from Hallie, her voice on the phone

975. Listening to my kids endless thanks over lunch.

Listing my thanks...

2011-07-19T07:02:00.000-05:00

951. Air Conditioning

952. A Family swim

953. The Gulps

954. Five Horners snuggling in bed and listening to Ryan read a story

955. The ache that comes with loss

956. Phone call from my mom

957. Peaceful mornings

958. Grandparents at swim meets

959. New school clothes

960. Trying new foods

961. Fresh fruit

962. Watching a movie with Ryan

963. Reading a good book

964. All three kids listening to a story on CD together in the backseat

965. Rediscovering toys in the basement

Thankful...

2011-07-12T22:13:00.000-05:00

941. Boys flying down the hill on their bikes with no hands on a summer day

942. Kids mesmerized by a book on CD in the car

943. Swimming with my kids

944. New pictures of Melia

945. Grandparents that took Zac on a special vacation and made him feel so special

946. Being a prayer partner for my parents at the Royal Family Kids Camp next week

947. Fried potatoes with my grandmother's seasoning

948. Surprise treat with my kiddos at Red Mango...their smiles

949. Daddy teaching an impromptu swim lesson over the lunch hour

950. Cuddling with all three kids on the couch after we all woke up after 8:00 a.m.

What will we do without Hannah?

2011-07-10T22:32:00.000-05:00

Our dear, sweet Hannah is moving out next weekend. We are wondering what we will do without her around. Here is an example of how helpful she can be...

We have a wonderful video of Melia that our agency sent us. In it Melia is kicking her legs and excited about a song that one of the caretakers is playing on her phone for Melia. We thought it would be so cool to have that song in our itunes for her when she comes home, but how in the world were we going to find a Chinese song?

In walks Hannah with an app. She enlightens us with Shazam! She just puts her phone up to the speaker on our computer and within 20 seconds a youtube video of the song pops up. We copy and paste the Chinese name into itunes and viola...free download of the song we were looking for.

Hannah you are so cool!

Below is a video of the song. By the way, Hallie practically has the song memorized, in Chinese!

All Grace...

2011-07-06T07:35:00.000-05:00

931. The ache in my heart for Melia

932. My cousin Nick's grin

933. Big boys and big fireworks

934. Watermelon to celebrate the fourth

935. Holding Hallie's hand

936. Strong bond of family

937. Sending pictures to Melia

938. Discovering God's goodness with Amy and Beth

939. Ryan's funny faces

940. Laughing cousins in a tub of bubbles at Grammy's house

Without Further Adieu...

2011-06-28T21:19:00.000-05:00

...I would like to introduce to you Melia Xinai Horner! (pronounced Meh-lee-uh Shin-eye)

Just today Ryan and I received word from our adoption agency that they have approved us to be the parents of a sweet, 13 month old girl from China. We are bursting with joy, excitement and anticipation! She is our long awaited, hoped for daughter and we feel so very blessed!

This past week has been an incredible journey of faith and trust in God as we learned about some heart conditions that our daughter has. I won't go into all the details, it's her story to share, but I will tell you that God has changed us for good through the process of finding our daughter.

Our precious Melia was born with a heart condition that will likely require some surgery down the road. We spent the week educating ourselves on her heart issues with several doctors, other mothers and our social worker. In the end, we felt God drawing us to this gem. Every time we resisted the idea of adoption anxiety would well up in me and I realized that fear of the unknown was the source of that anxiousness. When we submitted to God and made the choice to say yes to what God already chose for us,"peace that surpasses understanding" flooded over us and has been "guarding my heart and mind" against fear ever since.

This process also made us dive into the idea of God's goodness. After all, how is it good that any child should be born with physical affliction? Why should any child be living outside the love of a family? How is that good, God?

That's when my wise, wonderful husband reminded me that God's good is not ours. His definition is greater and far better than mine. That's when I became aware that most of the time I define good as something that makes ME happy, makes ME smile or pleases ME. It's so self focused. God's good is bigger. He wants us eternally and His goodness seeks to save us eternally. That's when I began seeing good in Melia's physical condition.

Melia's heart is her way out of an atheist country. She will learn about God and His eternal love for her in our family. It is good to live life fully with a mom and dad, brothers and a sister. It is good that we are more aware, after only one week, of the blessings and goodness of this day. Because, we are not guaranteed tomorrow or the next heart beat. Melia has already made us more intentionally thankful and thus more fully alive and present in our moments.

So, I give thanks today for...

921. Another daughter

922. Her smile, her button nose, her beautiful eyes

923. Her growth and development thus far

924. A husband who repromised to love me always...in sickness and in health

925. Hallie's squeal over a new sister

926. Jacob's confidence, "I knew that was my sister"

927. Zac's determination to be her protector and helper when she comes home

928. Our parents joy, support and love for their new granddaughter

929. New friends to help us with new information...Chelle

930. God's promises fulfilled when we act in faith, trusting His goodness always (Phil 4:7)

If you have read this blog post, then you are part of Melia's story too. I would ask you to pray for her while she is away. I ask you to pray that God would prepare her for all the new sights, sounds, smells, foods, textures, experiences that she will have in our family. I ask that you pray for our other children as they welcome a new child into our family. It can be very emotionally difficult. Please pray that our marriage would remain strong. Please pray for God to touch her body with healing and that his strength would be powerful in her weaknesses.

Thank you for sharing in our joy!

I'm having a great day...

2011-06-27T15:13:00.000-05:00

911. Quiet car rides while children look at books from the library

912. Chalk Art with my kids

913. Genuine "Sorry" from littlest one.

914. Mid-day phone calls "just to check in" from my love.

915. Repairing doll shoes

916. A chat with my Aunt, who is my friend

917. Vacuum lines in the carpet

918. Making our own fun when the rain "ruined" our plans.

919. Jesus time on the couch with my kids

920. Jacob's head resting on my shoulder.

Today...

2011-06-21T15:41:00.000-05:00

901. Listening to Zac sing, "Our God is greater, our God is stronger..."

902. Zac's daily drawing for me...a tree with a "chickmunk" peeking out with a rainbow, flower, sun, grass and clouds.

903. Hallie and Zac laughing together

904. Intentional parenting by Ryan...he and Jake took a date to a CWS game today.

905. Summer jobs...some help keeping the house clean from kids that are not complaining.

906. Goober peanut butter and jelly because the kids asked and it's summer.

907. Cheers and smiles over Goober PB&J

908. Dreaming and planning for our little Melia...we are getting closer!

909. Ryan's sound mind and reasoning.

910. The smell of chicken in the crock pot for dinner.

It's Camp Week

2011-06-13T10:41:00.000-05:00

This morning I put all three of my kids on a bus to go to Camp Pokamoke for a day camp! They will go all five days this week from 7:45-4:50! I can't believe I sent Zac at five years old (I never would have sent Hallie or Jacob at that age) but he is such an adventurous kid and loves to do whatever his older siblings are doing so we sent him too. He will be in Jacob's group which gives me a little more peace about sending him.

So, that means I have the whole day to myself (yes, I planned it that way)! What to do? What to do? Believe it or not, I started by cleaning the first floor of my house. You might be thinking, "how foolish...why not get your nails done or go to the spa," but let me tell you having a clean house for more than 15 minutes makes me very happy! :)

Later today an interior decorator is coming by to give me some wisdom and what to do with the front two rooms in our house and if she gives me the green light the rest of the week without kids might involve some painting...we'll see!

That's our family update but now to more important things...how and where I saw Jesus this weekend and today.

So, so thankful for...

891. God placing me in relationship with hurting people. I feel their pain so deeply and I know my heart is becoming more like Christ's.

892. Hopeful prayers to a powerful God for my hurting friends.

893. Celebrating God's healing power in our physical bodies with two friends...Evan is tumor free and our friend Rich is tumor free and both give God ALL the glory!

894. Watching my hunk of a husband in a triathlon.

895. Our whole family going to the triathlon to cheer on dad, to Hallie's swim meet to cheer her on, to the boys' baseball games to cheer them on, to my running race to cheer me on. We love to be together and support each other.

896. Ryan's phone calls all day long.

897. Seeing an old friend at the baseball game.

898. The kids getting an overnight at Grammy and Grandpa's house.

899. Serving in the local church

900. Peach Iced Tea in summer.

When you see the finish line...

2011-06-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

...1,000 recorded gifts is in sight. It's not too far away. I know the Lord wants me to finish this race, but when the finish line is in sight Satan's attack ramps up! I know from God's Word in Philippines 3:12-14 that God desires that we press on in our spiritual disciplines and press on to finish what he has started in us. That tells me that Satan would want the exact opposite. He wants us to fail and give up. He wants us to lapse back into old habits and ways of living.

That is the way I have felt lately. I press on to memorize scripture or give thanks in all things and Satan whispers...what's the use, you know you will fail again, what good will it do you anyway...

So, today I will start my thanks again to defy the evil one and bring glory to my loving, heavenly Father...

876. Scriptures promises, promptings and encouragement
877. Smiling when I see my family
878. Lunch with Ryan
879. My daughter's intensity before her first swimming race
880. My daughter's beaming smile when she finished.
881. The hope of Colossians 1:17 "He is before all things and in Him all things hold together."
882. The joy that fills my heart and brings a smile to my face when I write out my thanks.
883. Grandparents that come to swim meets and ball games and babysit our kids.
884. Running in the mornings
885. Talking and swinging on the front porch swing when the kids go to bed.
886. Flowers blooming. How they come back to life with a big drink of water.
887. Zac's quote of the day. "Mom, if you were ever a harmonica teacher and lost all of your harmonicas and needed a little green one, I would be happy to share mine with you."
888. Jacob sleeping soundly at night with doggy and beary wrapped in his 6 (almost 7) year old arms.
889. The kids joy at Vacation Bible School!
890. My job. Talking slowly and intentionly. Making people feel validated and listened to.

Lord, thank you for instructing us to give thanks and how it blesses us!

Anniversary

2011-05-21T21:24:00.000-05:00

On May 16 Ryan and I celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary. I must admit I have been struggling a little lately with my age, aging body, passion for motherhood. But, a date with my wonderful husband was just the medicine I needed.

I absolutely adore him. He is my hero. He is able to speak life into me. Our lives have become so intertwined that it is hard to tell where he ends and I begin. God has given me the perfect man to love, honor and adore. I am so thankful...

866. Holding his hand with two fingers

867. When he looks into my eyes so intentionally

868. Loving me for who I am, all the good and bad

869. Laughing with him

870. His encouraging words about my mothering

871. Intimacy

872. His commitment

873. His passion

874. Growing love year after year

875. Hope for many more years, dreaming of our future together.

The I'm Thankful for door...

2011-05-14T09:40:00.000-05:00

I really believe that training our minds to focus on all that God gives is the key to joy! Being thankful transforms us, but like anything we have to practice giving thanks until it becomes our automatic response.

I was trying to think of a way to begin training my children to, "rejoice in the Lord always," and this is the idea the Lord gave me...

The, "I'm Thankful for...door"

My challenge is for the kids to find something new every day to give God thanks for and write it down. We often talk about it at dinner time, but anytime of the day we have post-it notes available for writing or drawing our thanks to God.

Here are some of our thanks...

Hallie...flowers on trees

Zachary...Mom
Ryan...my children, wife and dog
Hannah...music, worship and songs
Me...sunshiny days
Jacob...Jesus as the bridge to God (salvation)

Mother's day thanks...

2011-05-09T21:08:00.001-05:00

851. Zac on Mother's Day..."Mommy, mother's day is the best day of the whole year."

852. A family hike on Mother's Day in Fontanelle Forest

853. Listening to frogs

854. Walking sticks

855. Hammocks

856. Finding Spring's first ladybugs

857. Lunch with my Mom

858. Buying Melia shirts with my mommy

859. My mom's hug

860. Mom helping me out with the kids bedtime

861. Breakfast in bed

862. Handmade cards and letters and pictures

863. Ryan buys me the best clothes...my new China/travel/hiking pants

864. Pictures hanging by ribbon in the window

865. Relaxing, eating with our friends. Their house is so comfortable.

His goodness...

2011-05-02T22:06:00.000-05:00

836. Getting things done

837. Clorox cottonballs cleaning my shower while I do other things.

838. Zac helping me clean

839. Rice Krispie Treats with sprinkles

840. Ice Cream cones

841. Holding a baby

842. Talking under a tree to a friend

843. Phone call from another friend because she missed seeing me this weekend

844. Encouraging words from another friend!

845. Sitting in the same room with Ryan

846. Mahoney hikes with the kids

847. A soccer game with the family in the backyard...girls won!

848. Book club friendships

849. Hannah living with us

850. Kisses after school from Hallie and Jake.

2011-04-27T21:12:00.000-05:00

So, just when you think things are going blissfully great Satan comes along and messes things up! He loves to taunt, confuse and create fear and doubt, doesn't he? That is why continual thanks is so important!!

Let me back up...

Last week was rough. After getting sassy with someone I love I realized I needed to pull the plank out of my own eye before I start "fixing" anyone else! The plank in my eye was fear. Fear is not of God and if it motivates our actions it is wrong. I think I blindly had a fear that if life and relationships are not perfect that they are bound to fall apart. My blind pursuit of perfection will always leave me disillusioned, defeated and disappointed.

But, the God of hope and freedom and our future never leaves us without revealing His love and good purpose. He called to mind two verses to guide and encourage me (side note...scripture memory is sooooooo important!).

Phil 2:12 "Not that I have already obtained all this or have already been made perfect, but I press to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it, but one thing I do. Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

1 John 4:18 "There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear."

So, how does love drive out fear? God reminded me that seeing and receiving His perfect love is what will change me and drive out fears. That is why seeing Him in all things and giving thanks is so important.

So, I resolve to keep counting my blessings. I recommit to seeing Him in all things and choosing to walk in the light of his love.

I was also challenged to give God thanks for the people in my life and let them know about it! I have decided to send a text a day for 365 days to Ryan telling him all the countless reasons I am so thankful that God placed him in my life.

This giving thanks stuff is really great!!

821. That You made a way out of fear with gratitude and love

822. Crafts with Zac

823. Jacob playing the harmonica

824. Rubbing Jacob's neck at bedtime.

825. Jacob asking, "Mommy will you snuggle with me."

826. Hallie's eye mask at bedtime

827. Ryan reading Hallie Shakespeare

828. Zac's hourly hugs and kisses.

829. Zac blowing a kiss before he bats at the baseball game

830. Hannah living with us.

831. Dreaming with my husband about our future

832. Holding my neighbor's baby

833. Excitement about Harmonicas in the mail

834. Relaxed moments

835. Bravery in our boy as he got his Kindergarten shots today

We were on vacation...

2011-04-11T12:09:00.001-05:00

Last week was Spring Break for our kids. Wow! I have SOOOOO much to be thankful for.

801. My parents graciously took all five grandkids for the whole week and celebrated Cousins Camp.

802. A camp theme song about sticking together as cousins.

803. A camp flag and fun themes for the kids to enjoy every day of camp.

804. Happy smiles and content hearts when we returned to pick them up.

805. Energy supplied by the Heavenly Father to my parents. They did not even look exasperated when we arrived after a week with five kids!

806. A fort in the basement to sleep in every night.

807. My kids teaching me about sandhill cranes.

808. If that were not enough...my parents sent my sister, brother-in-law, Ryan and I to Las Vegas to visit my brother!

809. A hug from my brother.

810. His thoughtfulness to us while we were there.

811. Going to his church...AMAZING SERVICE!

812. Laughing with Shawn and Lisa over Coca-Cola.

813. Time with my husband. It is ALWAYS a blessing to our marriage and to my heart.

814. A trip to the Morman Temple to ask questions and learn about that faith. It was so good to challenge our faith in Christ and His Word with others' ideas. It provides us with great conversation and directs us to the Word of God more intentionally to find Truth.

815. Back to our routine today...it is good to be home.

816. Open windows and fresh breeze.

817. Snuggles with my kids.

818. A strong run with my friends...always great conversation.

819. Sunday night dinner with the best of friends.

820. Parents vs. Kids "epic" kickball game!

All Grace...

2011-03-28T14:05:00.000-05:00

786. Middle of the night snuggles with my sweet boy, Jacob.

787. Pizza and Movie Night with our bestest friends!

788. Clean countertops.

789. The smell of brownies.

790. Anticipating my mom coming for a visit. I just love her so much.

791. The kids excitement about Cousins Camp.

792. A challenge to my heart from Sunday's service.

793. Singing praise songs.

794. Hallie's belting, singing voice.

795. The kids playing piano for their great Aunt.

796. A phone call from Ryan mid-day.

797. Hannah's tender heart.

798. The kids enjoying math problems before school.

799. Getting my hair wet and really playing withe kids at the pool.

800. Reciting God's Word.

It really is true...

2011-03-21T21:26:00.000-05:00

...giving thanks to God in all things and at all times is where our peace is found. It is what God means when he says that He gives us life to the fullest. We just need eyes, ears and a disposition of thanks to see it is all a gift from Him.

This last Sunday was an all worship service at church, We started off with some great hymns. As I sang these age old verses I was struck by the theme of thankfulness that runs through all these songs. This idea of giving thanks, seeing God in all things is nothing new. I am just beginning to really see Him and the peace from Him and the trust in Him is like nothing I can even begin to describe. It is sooooooooooooooo good!

Remember this hymn...

Perfect submission, all is at rest,
I in my Savior am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness lost in His love.
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long;
This is my story, this is my song,

Praising my Savior all the day long.

As I was recently reading Ann Voskamp's book, One thousand Gifts, I was convicted. This life is surely not all roses and perfection and the moment heartache strikes we are compelled to react with anger to God for, "letting this happen" and all the while asking Him for help. Read the words of Caussade:

You would be very ashamed if you knew what the experiences you call setbacks, upheaveals, pointless disturbances and tedious annoyances really are. You would realize that your complaints about them are nothing more nor less than blasphemies-though that never occurs to you. Nothing happens to you except by the will of God, and yet (God's) beloved children curse it because they do not know it for what it is.

Ouch! In the midst of my counting blessings at home, I have been counting complaints in other areas of my life. I tell my kids to, "do everything without complaining or arguing" (Phil 2:14) but they listen to my complaints and learn their habits from me.

Oh, how thankful I am for new mercies every day. I am recommiting myself to give thanks in ALL things and trusting God with the results and expecting the promised peace that comes from giving thanks. He is good all the time!

771. A forgiving Father that never gives up on me

772. My fingers running through my boys' hair that is too long

773. In-laws that I adore talking to

774. Time to read a book

775. Just the right amount of cream in my coffee...that my husband brings to me upstairs while I get ready in the morning

776. My mom and dad listening to me talk and talk and talk.

777. Cousins laughter

778. Homemade donuts

779. A new recipe

780. Swinging on the front porch swing with Hannah on the first day of Spring

781. Privelege to pray for a friend

782. Groceries and a little five year old helper putting them away.

783. Sneaking spinach into Zac's smoothie and the look of surprise when he found out (and still liked it)

784. Adoption stories

785. Hugs from Hallie

Thanks for today...

2011-03-14T14:50:00.000-05:00

743. Looking down at my little foot next to his bigger foot.

744. Fingertips rubbing my back.

745. Fingers interlaced as we pray together.

746. Being like-minded.

747. Corporate Worship.

748. Getting to know my 97 year old Aunt.

749. Kids comfortable with the elderly.

750. Talking for 3 hours with old friends.

751. Hallie teaching her brothers a lesson on how to share God's love.

752. Sunshine in the backyard.

753. The kids marveling at ants.

754. Restful sleep.

755. Vacuumed carpet.

756. Swimming with my kids.

757. Jacob's boisterous laugh.

758. Laundry to fold...I said it and I mean it!

759. Ryan shopping...I asked for potatoes and he bought two! ~Smile~

760. We drove all the way to the Children's Museum and it was closed. The kids did not complain at all!

761. Scripture memory. The Lord empowering me to hide it in my heart.

762. Knowing I am loved by God, my husband, my parents...always and forever no matter what.

763. Homemade pizza with friends.

764. Wanting to submit to, respect and honor my husband.

765. Singing karaoke with Hallie and Jacob.

766. The boys found sleeping together in the same sleeping bag.

767. The boys both saying about the other, "He is my best friend."

768. Scotcheroos. Mmmm.

769. The kids anticipating Cousins Camp in Kearney every day! (it's two weeks away)

770. Seeing our church grow. God moving in our midst.

Counting My Favorite Things...

2011-03-12T08:39:00.000-06:00

...makes the soul sing. Remember this...

Lunch Today

2011-03-08T14:17:00.000-06:00

I had lunch today with one of my dear friends. She is going through unthinkable difficulty in her life. As she walks alongside her child who is battling and defeating (yea!) brain cancer she is also dealing with the loss of her marriage. As she talked honestly about her anger and sadness she was able to supernaturally count her blessings and see God' goodness too. I marveled at how Jesus shined through her as she told me about her son's giving spirit, her family's support and love and how she is pressing in to God through prayer every day.

I realized that this list of thanks I am making is God's way of helping me to see His goodness always and in everything. Days will come when my heart will ache and tragedy will hit and I pray that the training I am in right now will open my eyes to God's grace and goodness always.

It doesn't mean we don't bear the scars of hurts in our past. We most certainly carry that with us, but Jesus still has His scars too. He bears the scars of sacrifice in a perfect place where there is no pain, no tears, no heartache. Is this what scripture is talking about in Philippines 3:10 when it says, "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death" ? To be like Him is to be, "content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. We can do all things through Christ who gives us the strength." Phil 4:12-13.

The Lord tells us that thankfulness precedes the blessing. Thankfulness precedes the miracle. Thankfulness precedes the deliverance. Maybe it's because when I am fixed on Him and His abundant provision in all things, I am less concerned with myself and more in awe of Him. Maybe the thankful heart is the deliverance from anxiety, worry and pain. After all He tells us in Phil 4:4-7 to, "Rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS. Again I say, Rejoice...Do not be anxious about anything, but in EVERYTHING, with Thanksgiving, make your requests known to God and the peace of God which transcends understanding will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus."

The peace of God...that is the blessing, the miracle and the deliverance! It comes from a thankful heart no matter our circumstances!!

So, I will continue to "press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Phil 3:14

Let the "sacrifice of praise" continue... (read Psalm 116)

731. My friend answering the phone with a happy, "Hi friend, how are you?"

732. The tone of Zac's sweet five year old voice.

733. Kissing Zac's cheeks

734. Reading the Storybook Bible with Zac on our days together.

735. Watching Ryan swim, his long, strong strokes in the water.

736. Kids coming in at night needing Mommy

737. Rubbing Hallie's back as her breath slows and she drifts off to sleep.

738. Jacob's school report at the end of the day

739. Sharing burdens and joys with a good friend

740. A clean toilet!

741. Window marker designs on the window.

742. The daily coloring pages from Zac and him saying, "Here mommy, these are for you. I love you so much."

Bucket List

2011-02-28T22:09:00.000-06:00

I recently returned from two amazing vacations. First we headed to the mountains of Colorado for a ski trip with my family and then Ryan and I met some friends in Cancun, Mexico for a tropical get-away.

While in Mexico I got to para sail and zip-line through the trees. Both of these adventures were on my bucket list of things I wanted to do. I made an interesting discovery after completing these wildly fun activities.

The activity itself was really not as exhilarating and fun as I thought it would be, but seeing God in the adventure was more than I could have imagined. He is in everything and a ride through the jungle upside down on a zip line is sometimes what it takes for me to open up my self-centered eyes and see Him in it all.

"It's not the gifts that fulfill, but the holiness of the space. The God in it." (Excerpt from Ann Voskamp's book, One thousand gifts.)

This is where I saw Him in Mexico...

716. A squeal of delight as I flew through the trees.

717. Bravery in my husband.

718. Laughter with friends.

719. The sound of blue water crashing against the shore

720. Billowing curtains

721. Toes in sand

722. The rush of calm and security when Ryan holds my hand.

723. Lively Mexican music

724. Scripture shared with friends in the morning

725. Jumping into refreshing water.

726. Reading a book in the hot sun

727. Feeling the sun, the massage, the sand, the breeze

728. Kisses from my favorite person

729. Endless blue stretching to the edge of forever from high in the sky.

730. Coming home to loud, busy children that I adore.

I could go on for days. God is truly in everything and my life is fuller and more peaceful when I acknowledge Him and take the time to thank Him.

God Is Love

2011-02-14T16:08:00.000-06:00

"God is Love" 1 John 4:16

God is Love and when I begin to recognize His presence in all things I see His love for me breaking through my grouchy attitude, stressed schedule, irrational fears and selfish ambition. His love is screaming to me every day, all around me and in me and through me. I pray I would have open eyes to see Him more clearly every day. I pray that I would see His love and bask in the freedom that comes from knowing, because I know that I know that I am loved by my Creator eternally.

Glimpses of His love in the last few days and evidence of His presence...

705. Ryan's hand reaching out to touch my fingers as we lye reading in bed.

706. Stopping to watch a bull dozer with Zac while we walked.

707. A sloppy, wet bike ride with my family in February.

708. Opening the windows to fresh, clean air.

709. Sunshine, bright on my face after bitter cold.

710. Dust of the floor amplified in ugliness by the Sun shining on it. Sweeping it away and using this moment to teach my kiddos about how ugly sin is in the light of Him, but how we can shine when we are made clean by Jesus.

711. Anticipating vacation.

712. Holding Jacob's hand.

713. Hallie's 8 year old smile.

714. Zac's growing perseverance. He matched 53 pairs of socks for me today!!

715. Bible study with my friend. The challenge and encouragement from a trusted friend.

Grandma

2011-02-04T19:59:00.000-06:00

(last March for grandma's 94th birthday with all her grandkids.)

My grandma lived a wonderful 94 years and 10 months before she passed away and went to be with Jesus for all eternity on February 3, 2011. Some of her last words were, "Tell my family I love them all" and "Amen." Isn't that beautiful? Our lives come down to living out the great commandment as believers in Christ. My grandma's last words honored Christ command in telling her family she loved them and loving God with a last and final prayer before leaving this earth.

I think Jacob summed things up best when he said, "Oh good. Now she will never be old again and she will live that way forever." Oh, good is right. God is good and basking in his eternal love without the curse of sin is too wonderful for words. I am thankful...

691. God's promise of heaven is true. Really, really true!

692. My grandma loved her family well.

693. She was one of the first to teach me that Jesus loves me.

694. Her German passion

695. Her laugh. Remembering the time we played Catch Phrase and she kept playing it like Charades.

696. How she loved to cheat at cards and never admitted it.

697. Playing that game with pennies at her house. Learning about grace.

698. Picking peas in grandma's garden.

699. The first time she met each of my kids. Hallie was her first great-grandchild.

700. Her hard-working hands, still smooth skin, kneading dough for Runzas, cinnamon rolls or pie crust with cinnamon sugar.

701. Trimming her nails, massaging her hands this last year.

702. Singing to her over the phone the night before she went to Jesus.

703. Her prayers for our family, our marriage and our lives.

704. Passing from this life to the next in peace. The mercy of the Father.

My thanks is truly endless. She was such a wonderful grandma. She wasn't a perfect person, but she loved a perfect God and trusted in His mercy, forgiveness and love. She taught me to do the same. She was everything a grandma should be and I will really miss her. It is comforting to know she has gone before me into heaven and I hope, will welcome me when I come someday. I will love you forever, grandma.

Time

2011-01-31T22:40:00.000-06:00

683. One hour and 17 minutes on the phone with my childhood friend, Jamie.

684. 59 minutes on the phone with a hurting friend, listening.

685. 15 minutes playing Candyland with Zac and his friend, Bullet and Sammy.

686. 40 minutes in the car driving to dance (it was cancelled) and driving home listening to my kids talk about the day at school.

687. Two hours connecting with friends that are safe, wise, encouraging and challenging, Amy and Beth.

688. 5 seconds hugging my grandma.

689. Thirty minutes talking to my mom about my grandma and hearing the peace in her voice.

690. All these moments, breaths, opportunities, experiences, challenges, struggles, relationships being held together by a loving God who promises to will and act according to His good purpose. (Phil 2:13)

thankful...

2011-01-28T21:08:00.000-06:00

682. the adoption process. The pursuit of Melia.

Our good friend, Hannah, opened my eyes to a beautiful spiritual truth about adoption yesterday. She is living with us right now and so she is part of our home study. As a result she had to get up early yesterday to go to the doctor and get a physical before work. She said that when the alarm went off her initial reaction was a grumble, "why so early?" But, God quickly changed her disposition.

She realized how amazing it is that she is part of our pursuit of Melia. There is a young girl in this world, maybe conceived, maybe born, that has no idea of all that is happening to bring her home. The process and the pursuit has begun. She is being prayed for and deeply loved and unless God supernaturally tells her this, she has no idea that she is being pursued. No doubt, she is just doing her best, by God's grace, to survive. God has chosen her for our family. God knows the day and the time He will bring her home to us and He is preparing a place for her here as I write.

Isn't that true of God's pursuit of us to be adopted into his family. He so dearly loves all His children and is preparing a heavenly home for us. This life is part of the journey to our forever family. What a joy to know that these momentary troubles and heartaches are only temporary. He knows the day and the time when our hearts and minds and souls will be ready to go home. And, until that day He sustains us and watches over us. He is always preparing a place for us.

Thank you to all of our friends that have written recommendation letters, for family and friends praying, for watching our kids when we are at adoption classes...Everyone is playing a part in God's plan to bring Melia into her family.

Ahhh...Jesus I love you!

2011-01-23T22:02:00.000-06:00

672. Seeing my daddy talk with his friends.
673. Seeing my dad's initials carved into the wood of his childhood friend's home. Smile!
674. My mommy's smile.
675. Ryan loving me and my family enough to drive down to Lincoln in two cars.
676. Ryan giving me a cookie and milk for the ride home.
677. Singing to Jesus in the car.
678. Hope stirring in my heart. Believing God and His power.
679. The strength to speak the truth in love.
680. Waking at 7:30 to the smell of coffee being brewed by my hubby.
681. Knowing where the plastic cups are in my friend's house and grabbing one without asking.

When life hurts.

2011-01-18T15:11:00.000-06:00

Life can be so full of ugly. But, when we stop to see Him and take time to know Him in the midst of hurt and pain it gives hope. He is watching, loving, not letting go. Watch this to see why I am counting my thanks.

Laughing

2011-01-16T21:59:00.000-06:00

671. Belly laughing with my family at the kitchen table.

Ryan and I have implemented a no screen time on the Sabbath policy in our house. The kids tend to grumble a little in the morning but by the end of the day we usually have created a lot of fun, together family time and the computer, TV, DSi and Wii have not been missed. (I should say it's usually no screen time morning until after dinner).

So, mid-day today we were looking for something to do around the house and decided to play Right, Center, Left. Ryan and I started teasing the kids about their inability to play the game, then they started teasing us and all the while we were making ridiculously crazy sounds. The mayhem culminated in Zac putting on a show with his hat. We were all laughing so hard by the end of it all.

It makes me smile even writing about it. Here is a little glimpse of our fun...

Check out Ryan's blog for our latest adoption updates.

Family Church

2011-01-12T21:21:00.001-06:00

In an effort to be purposeful about growing a servant's heart this year the Lord prompted Ryan and I to start "Horner Family Church" on Wednesday nights.

We have felt a dilemma with Wednesday night church because our kids get to bed so late on church night, but we love the programming that our church offers. So, we decided to take our church's idea about teaching kids to serve and create family church in our home instead.

Ryan found a great book with lots of experiments and Bible lessons and tonight was our first attempt.

What a blessing it was! The Lord gathered us together around our kitchen table and we talked about what happened to Jesus after He was resurrected. We read from Acts about how He told His friends to be His witnesses to the whole world and then he ascended into heaven hidden by a cloud. So, we made mini-clouds and then talked about ways we could be His witness in the world. The kids had great answers and we concluded that our actions and service to others is one way to be a witness for Christ.

So, we put on snowpants, hats and gloves and everyone got a shovel. We dug out the mailbox and then the kids were having so much fun they decided to clear a sidewalk too! What a joy to serve with my kids. When Ryan and I got cold they pushed us to keep shoveling!

We ended with a prayer led by Pastor Zac!

666. Thankful to the Lord Jesus that He overcame the evil one and that He chooses us to be His witnesses to the world.

667. Watching my kids serve with excitement.

668. My husband's spiritual leadership and creativity.

669. The Holy Spirit helping my heart and teaching me how to serve.

670. Our first Family Church!

Moving Right Along

2011-01-10T22:13:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow we have our first home study with Holt. Then, the next weekend we attend a parenting class for our adoption of Melia. We are so excited to be moving forward with her adoption. I went through dossier requirements a few nights ago and feel pretty good about where we are with that too.

Melia has become a daily part of our life. Each day the kids pray for her, her caretakers and her well-being. Each day we talk about what we imagine life with four will be like. Each day I imagine having a baby to care for. Dreams, prayers and hopes are like food for my soul. I eagerly await the reality of Melia in our life.

Jacob's Baptism

2011-01-09T21:05:00.000-06:00

Eternally thankful...
661. That Jacob accepted Jesus as his Savior.

My contemplative son has made a choice to follow Jesus! I can not tell you how filled up my heart is today! I am thankful for...

662. Grandparents who encourage my childrens' faith and support us as we teach our children about Jesus.
663. A church that teaches young children about salvation and encourages baptism as a response to salvation.
664. A babysitter that faithfully taught and lived out Jesus for our young children.
665. The promised Holy Spirit to guide, comfort, convict and lead my son through all the days of his life.

Jacob has been talking about baptism for a while. We were hesitant to let him be baptized because we wanted him to remember it and have it mean more than getting a cracker and juice at church. After much discussion Jacob finally wrote us a letter that said very simply and very powerfully, "I want to be baptized because I love Jesus."

How beautiful and pure is that? Scripture instructs us to come to Jesus like a child. We are instructed to repent and be baptized. I think adults, including myself, have a tendency to think too hard about these things and find reasons why baptism should wait. But, baptism is an outward sign of a choice to follow Jesus at the time of conversion. I think God gave us this gift so when faith trials come we have a moment and a memory of when he washed us clean and made us new to cling to. Baptism is a response to faith and exactly what Jacob did today.

I have no doubt that life will bring him struggles and temptations but I know that the Lord is in him, guarding and protecting him and that the Lord will work out Jacob's salvation according to His good purpose and plan. (Phil 2:12-13)

So, we have reason to celebrate today. Praise God for his faithfulness to us and our son, Jacob!

Begining the year with thanks!

2011-01-05T21:22:00.001-06:00

649. Playing dolls with Hallie.
650. Candyland...again.
651. Leggos with my boys.
652. Playing outside in January.
653. A new Compassion friend from Indonesia.
654. A letter in the mail from GiGi.
655. A phone call from my mom.
656. Zac's saying, "I hate Satan, Herod and spiders!"
657. Jake's silly faces...crossing his eyes. (I will post a picture some time).
658. Hearing someone say, "It's your mini-me" when they see Hallie and I together.
659. Reading books with Zac and his attention span growing.
660. My kids coming home safely from school today.

2011 The Year to SERVE

2011-01-01T08:07:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite bloggers has spent the last several years naming her year. The name is a challenge and an invitation to let God work mightily in her life for His glory.

I have decided to name my year THE YEAR TO SERVE. I have spent much of my time memorizing Philippines and will continue this endeavor into 2011. As I read Philippines I am struck by Paul's joyful service to fellow Christians while in prison for Christ. The verses that stick out to me are Philippines 2:5-8,

"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus. Who, being in very nature God did not consider equality with God something to be grasped but made Himself nothing, TAKING THE VERY NATURE OF A SERVANT, being made in human likeness. And, being found in appearance as a man, humbled himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross."

As I have thought about this year of service, I think that I tend to serve selfishly. But, Jesus made himself nothing. He humbled himself to death. Dying to self and looking for opportunities to serve is my hope for the year. I know that as I die to myself God promises to shield me and carry me on His shoulders (Deuteronomy 33:12).

Lord, I pray for eyes to see those in need in big and small, moment by moment ways. I pray for strength to die to myself and joyfully serve those around me and around the world. I love you and pray that my life would bring you glory and praise. AMEN!

Happy 2011

2010-12-31T22:55:00.000-06:00

Anticipating a new year and trusting in God for the future! Happy New Year!
(Don't worry, it's sparkling grape juice)

Hallie is Eight

2010-12-28T21:05:00.000-06:00

Every year I take a picture of the kids with the stuffed animal they got when they were born or came home. Here is Hallie with her bunny.

Today my sweet daughter turned eight. We have spent much of the day reminiscing about what we were doing eight years ago. It has been fun to remember her birth but I must admit it also pulls on my heart strings. I can hardly believe how she has grown and changed over the past eight years.

This year we celebrated her birthday with a rock star theme, karaoke and a sleep over. She felt special and had a wonderful party.

I am forever thankful to God for...

636. Creating such a lovely girl and allowing me to be her mommy

637. Growing in her heart

638. Making me a mommy for the first time with Hallie

639. The pit in my stomach as I watch her grow because I love her so much

640. Her growing confidence in who You created her to be.

641. Listening to her sing

642. Watching her dance

643. That she ordered a doll for her birthday gift from Grammy this year

644. Her creativity

645. How she loves to be at home

646. The way she adores her girl cousins, the friendship she has with Brooke and Jillian

647. Her anticipation for Melia and her part in bringing about Melia's adoption

648. When I see her generous spirit

Hallie, you know this (because I tell you every night) but, I love you always and forever no matter what! You are so very dear to me and I am grateful God made you!

Christmas Break...

2010-12-22T09:50:00.001-06:00

...is here for the kids. What a wonderful morning we have had! The kids are playing the Wii mindlessly and I have all the Christmas lights on in the house with Christmas music in the background. Family is in town and all the presents are wrapped and under the tree. I am so looking forward to this next week!

Jesus came to bring peace on earth. Peace between God and his kids forever! I am thankful for the peace in our home that reflects God's gift of peace in His Son, Jesus!

626. Christmas music
627. Jake's joy in losing his tooth at school yesterday.
628. Zac's preschool Christmas program. His smile, signing "I love you" to me from the stage.
629. Talking with my nephew, Cole. He is so precious and delightful.
630. My mom's surprise visit last night.
631. Christmas cards from friends who live far away. Remembering you brings my heart joy and a smile to my face.
632. Hallie expressing thanks for her bedroom make-over. Thankfulness is growing in her heart.
633. Making nutritious, warm food for my family (before the cookie assault begins!)
634. Handmade presents from the kids under the tree.
635. Admiration in Jacob's eyes as he looks up to his older cousin, Cole.

Merry, merry Christmas!

My Christmas Favorites

2010-12-18T21:08:00.000-06:00

I really enjoy decorating our home for Christmas. It is fun to add something new or reminisce while putting up decorations that we have had for the last twelve years of our marriage. Here are some of my favorites...

I have had this small tree for the last several years but this year I decided to use on of my good friends ideas and put all our Christmas card pictures on for decoration. We are all enjoying looking at our friends every day of the Christmas season! Underneath the tree sits of basket of Christmas books. I love reading these books while snuggling on the couch with my kiddos.

This Nativity set was given to us by Ryan's Great Aunt for out wedding. Each year I let the kids set it up. They always make sure all the figures are looking at the baby Jesus.

We have had our stockings for several years. I bought six when we were only four in hopes that God might have six planned for our family. This year we hung up Melia's stocking to remember her as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. I love that my mantle is full! Maybe next year she will be here to find surprises in her stocking on Christmas morning!
This is our advent calendar. Each day at breakfast the kids take turns putting up one of the Christmas characters and tells the rest of the family how that particular character played a part in the Christmas story.
Although our trees lighting is not the best this year (the prelit branches are dying) I love our tree. It is filled with homemade decorations and watching the kids decorate the tree each year is so special. My mom started a tradition when I was little that I have continued with my kids. Each of the kids gets a special ornament each year. Hallie's is a collection of stars, Jacob's are musical instruments, Zac's are candy canes and Melia's started this year with bells! After we decorate our tree we always drink hot chocolate and watch White Christmas!

This is our advent wreath that sits on the kitchen table. It is not much to look at and I could see it maybe getting a little pick-me-up next year but it is homemade and I do love that about it! Each week on Sunday we light a candle and talk about how Jesus brought peace, hope, joy and love when we was born. Then we read a part of the Christmas story and try to figure out a way we can share Jesus' hope, peace, joy and love with others. The last two years we have started a tradition of Ryan and I matching the kids monetary generosity and buying chickens or ducks for families around the world through World Vision.

These beautiful decorations sit on our piano. I really adore the Peggy Carr ornaments and this is one of my favorites. Also, this year I have enjoyed listening to Hallie play Angels We Have Heard on High, Jingle Bells and other Christmas Carols on the piano!

Finally, this is my favorite, favorite collection. Each year my mom buys Ryan and I a new character to add to our carolers. I managed to get all the characters on this piece of furniture this year, but I look forward to having the carolers extend to other areas of the room in years to come!

Life is good!

2010-12-15T21:26:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I took Hallie and Jacob's daily paperwork out of their book bags. As I looked through math papers and spelling words I found two treasures...

618. So, so thankful that even though we have our family quarrels and bickering the general theme in my kids' lives is that they are loved by their parents and that they love their parents.

Today, I asked Zac, "What makes you happy?" His sweet reply filled my heart with thankfulness...
619. "Jesus and making smoothies with you."

Each Sunday of Advent we have been talking about something that Jesus brought to the world (peace, hope, joy and love). So, on our way to church we were...
620. Making up Jesus tunes...
and Zac says,
621. "Ya know mom. Hope, Peace, Love and Joy is God's power!" He couldn't be more right! I was bursting with thankfulness for the truth that is growing in Zac's heart.

And, yesterday my sweet, always thinking of something husband calls me from work...
622. We call each other at least 2 or 3 times every day...
and says,
623. "We should think up a really great candy/cookie recipe. We could try out all sorts of recipes until we get it right. Wouldn't that we fun?"
So, tonight we spent the evening...
624. Baking together. It makes me smile even writing about it!

Lord, your goodness to me to too good! I am so undeserving and yet you just pour out these gifts to me day after day! I love you, Jesus!

625.Thank you for coming to earth to bring peace, hope, joy and real love into my life every single day!

We have been busy!

2010-12-09T21:31:00.000-06:00

Like most of you, we have been busy lately! But, let me tell you, in all the hustle and bustle I am overflowing with thankfulness to my merciful, tender-hearted Heavenly Father.

Last weekend my parents were in town and stayed the night. We ended up having time to work with Hallie on her 8 year old bedroom valence. My mom showed her all about the sewing machine and Hallie made the valence almost 100% on her own!!

597. Watching my mom teach Hallie with patience and care.
598. Hallie's attention to detail and work ethic.
599. Creating beautiful things with my mom and daughter.

While the three of us worked intently on sewing and creating Ryan played a game of Monopoly with Jacob. Jacob thrives on quality time so it was wonderful that he had his daddy's undivided attention for so long.
600. A dedicated father for my kids.
601. Jacob's delight in time spent with his daddy. I pray he is learning how to delight in his Heavenly Father too.

So, that left Zac. He played with Poppie, dressed up and also got hugs, kisses and tickles from our good friend, Hannah.
602. Zac's smile and giggle.
603. Hannah's adoration and genuine love for our kids.

So, after a fun Saturday together my folks left on Sunday. My dad took a big truck of furniture out to my brother and my mom headed to Lincoln to be with my grandma.
604. Ryan and my dad working together and their relationship.
605. God's protection over my dad during his long trip to Las Vegas.
606. My dad connecting with my brother and showing his love through his gift of service and time.
607. My mom's never-ending, enduring, difficult and loving commitment to caring for my grandma as she ages.

Meanwhile, we went to church and took the kids to visit Santa. At church we listened to a wonderful sermon, lifted our voices in songs of praise and enjoyed laughter and joy with our church congregation. You see, we just finished a sermon series on joy which was entitled, glee. So, to end the series we all enjoyed some glee together with a funny video. To see the video go to this website.

608. Santa smiles.
609. Laughter and joy from silly stuff.
610. The sincerity and authenticity of our senior pastor.
611. Raising my hands to worship God.

Finally, just last night we got to watch Hallie and Zac in their first Christmas musical at church. Oh, I was so proud of them! Jacob was beside himself with boredom, but before the production enjoyed taking pictures with my camera all around the sanctuary.

612. Jacob's delight in showing me his pictures. "Mommy, I took pictures close up, far away and in the middle!
613. Hearing my daughter's voice.
614. Watching her hold back a smile when everyone applauded for her.
615. Zac's confident one-liner, "What's taxes?"
616. Grammy and Grandpa showing their love with their presence.
617. Grammy's tears of joy with Hallie's song.

My sweet Zac

2010-11-29T13:42:00.000-06:00

Today is a Zac and Mommy day while the older kids are in school. Well, after the turkey leaked in the stove this last weekend I had some major oven cleaning to do. My sweet Zac said he wanted to help and started scrubbing. He said, "Mommy, if you ever have show and tell at work you could bring me! You can tell them what a good scrubber I am!" A few minutes later..., "Mommy, when I grow up I am going to be a helper cuz I am really good at scrubbing things."

I love this kid!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T07:35:00.001-06:00

This is one of my favorite holidays! It is all about being thankful to God, sharing time with family and not giving any gifts! It seems like such a pure holiday.

Since this blog is mainly a thankfulness journal I can not pass up such a great day to give thanks!

Philippines 1:3 says, "I thank my God every time I remember you..."

God, thank you for...

576. Your Son, Jesus. My friend, my Savior, my example, my hope.
577. Your Spirit. My guide, my convictor, my comforter.
578. Ryan. My best earthly friend, my greatest love.
579. Hallie. My daughter.
580. Jacob. My son.
581. Zachary. My son.
582. Melia. The hope of another daughter.
583. My mom and dad. Patient, enduring, sacrificial love.
584. Doug and Jean. Adoption as a daughter into their hearts and family forever.
585. My sister. My dear, dear friend.
586. My brother. Family forever.
587. Jenni. My sister. She is so generous to me with her love and her life.
588. Shawn and Will. Brother-in-laws. The ties to other men, fathers through the gift of family.
589. Jillian, Tyler, Bill, Cole and Brooke. Cousins, nieces and nephews. The joy in each of their births, the opportunity to watch them grow into children and young adults. Fun, joy and laughter from time spent together.
590. Grandma. 94 years of life. The love and prayer she has poured over me and my family.
591. Aunt Anica and Uncle Jeff. Encouragement, friendship as adults.
592. Aunt Jonell and Uncle John. Intentional love, wisdom and devotion to my family despite the miles.
593. Aunt Marania and Uncle Wyman. Example of living a quiet dream.
594. Adam, Emma, Susanne, Aroha, John, Nick and Chad. My cousins. Different lives connected and bound by the gift of family.
595. Jen C., Jamie, Jacy, Lindsey, Emily, Darcie, Becca, Margie, Tami, Amy, Beth, Jenny Z., Cathy, Rhonda, Hannah, Jen G., Nicole. Close friends that I have and can share my life with. Accountability, faithful friendship. Answered prayer.
596. Church family. Real, genuine, kind, trustworthy Jesus-lovers.

Heavenly Father, in your abundant loving kindness you not only sustain my life with breath every day you also have lavished on me the gift of these lives. You have caused my life to intersect with so many others for my benefit and your glory. I thank you for each one of these precious, dear people as I remember them today. Love you, Father!

Today...

2010-11-24T20:49:00.001-06:00

566. Games and laughter with my family at Grammy and Grandpa's house tonight.
567. Little girls giggling for four hours straight.
568. They way Ryan processes things and thinks...he is spatial and sees things as patterns...amazes me!
569. Jacob in a pilgrim hat singing, "God bless this food" with all the Kindergarten kids at school!
570. Family support. Grammy, Aunt Jenni and two cousins all came to Jacob's 15 minute production at school.
571. Tickling Zac, hearing him laugh and getting a note from him with his name and a heart on it.
572. Forgiveness asked for and given by my 5 year old.
573. Writing Christmas letters.
574. A clean room. Reminds me of a clean heart.
575. The four boy cousins building legos, playing Star Wars and sharing fun.

Details...

2010-11-15T06:54:00.000-06:00

So, here are some details about our decision to adopt.

A few months ago Ryan and I thought I might be pregnant for a few days. In most instances that would freak us out, but we were actually kind of excited about the idea. When I was not pregnant we actually felt a little sadness. This combined with the Lord prompting me during my quiet times to pray into adoption slowly led to our decision to adopt.

561. Lord, thank you for your patience in letting us come to this decision.

After deciding to adopt we decided gender. Hallie has always wanted a little sister and to even out the boy/girl ratio in the family we decided to adopt a little girl. Ryan teases that now I won't just have one to take to the bathroom (the easy one) when we go out!

562. Lord, thank you for longing in Hallie's heart for a sister and how it has helped us make a decision for a little girl. You use all these longings to bring about your good, pleasing and perfect will. Phil 1:8 "God can testify how (we) I long for all of you (our little girl) with the affection of Christ Jesus."

Next decision was where to adopt from. First, Domestic vs. International. From talking with the staff at NE Children's Home it seemed that it would be really hard to choose a young girl because their are so many families wanting to adopt young children. We did not want to take a child away from a family that desperately wanted a baby, but instead wanted to take a child that was in need and make her a part of our family. That moved us to International adoption once again. We considered Russia, Ethiopia, China and Korea. We wanted to use HOLT because of the wonderful things we have heard about their Christian affiliation, integrity, and the experiences of other families that have used them. They don't work in Russia so we looked at the other country options they had available. Obviously, China has a long history of having lots and lots of girls available for adoption so that combined with cost and one trip (instead of two) as well as Holt's long history of working in China led us to this country.

563. Lord, thank you for surrounding us with wise people that have gone before us in adopting from China and with Holt. Thank you that our lives are relational. Thank you for my running friends that have played a part in helping this story unfold and lead us to our daughter.

Next, was her name. Ryan and I have always named our kids early on. We love to think about names and begin to pray for our kids by name as soon as possible. Initially we just started looking on the computer for A names, B names etc... For God's reason we skipped to the M's and started to think about ways to use "mei" or "mee" in a name because it means beautiful in Chinese. After MUCH discussion and consideration we came up with a name that does not have "mei or "mee" in the name but, one that we love. Her first name will be MELIA (pronounced muh-LEE-ya).

564. Lord, thank you for giving us her name. We pray for you to guard and protect Melia's heart, mind and body in your Son, Jesus.

So, now we begin the paperwork process. We filled out the application to the agency and a list of minor/correctable special needs that we feel good about handling. Thanks to the wonderful International adoption physician who met with us for free at Boystown to discuss the list! We also each filled out a 17 page questionnaire about our personal history which will be a part of the homestudy and began filling out the paperwork for our criminal history check. Pretty soon we will be off to do fingerprints for FBI clearance.

The process has begun and we could not be happier!

565. Lord, thank you for the resources available in Omaha that make this process easier and smoother. We are so thankful for the doctor at Boystown and his generosity to us!

Happy News

2010-11-12T13:27:00.001-06:00

Ryan and I have decided to begin the process of adopting a little girl from China! We are so excited about this decision! For those of you moms out there that say going from three to four is not that big of a deal...I'm counting on that to be true!

We have submitted an application to Holt Internationals Child of Promise Program. This means our little girl will most likely have a minor or correctable special need. We have discussed different medical diagnoses with the International Adoption doctor in Omaha and feel totally at peace with the information we have received and our application to use Holt.

I will write more as the story of our little girl's journey home unfolds. Please keep her in your prayers if you think about it!

When you need to turn off your mind...

2010-11-08T21:28:00.000-06:00

...give thanks!

This week (yes, it is only Monday) my mind has been swirling. I feel like there are so many things to think about and figure out and do or not do and schedules to keep and..... I know you have all been there.

Well, I'm pretty sure one of the ways I am tempted into anxiety is to keep my mind preoccupied with stuff instead of CHRIST! So, I am choosing to see Christ and give thanks so that He will receive glory and my mind can know freedom and peace.

546. A crescent moon at sundown in a clear Nebraska sky.
547. 70 degrees on November 8 in Nebraska!!
548. Watching Hallie's graceful hands in ballet.
549. Playing dragon castle with Zac today.
550. Jacob yelling, "Mommy!" in front of all the kids running out of school today.
551. A letter to Jacob from Andrew that said, "Jacod is my bff!" (Still working on b's and d's
552. Listening to Hannah sing and play hymns at the piano.
553. Pushing Zac on the swings.
554. Zac's laugh.
555. Ryan's hug.
556. My mom's voice.
557. Reading grandma's evening prayer to her.
558. Quiet Reading.
559. My aunt's encouragement.
560. My uncle's silent, sweet protection and love for his wife.

Wow! That felt good to just think back on the day and praise Him. He is good, He is gracious, He is loving, He is peace!

Catching up...

2010-11-03T06:38:00.000-05:00

...it has been too long since I have sat down and written my thanks to God. It's not that I neglect to thank Him, but I want to stay committed to documenting His goodness. It's good for my heart, mind and soul to be intentional about recognizing His abundant provision and the Lord's loving kindness...
537. Hallie told me she had the perfect idea for a mom/daughter date. She want to go running with me!! I am so thankful she has seen fitness in my life and so glad that it is something fun to do in her life.
538. Forever grateful for all the wonderful things about my husband, but in particular, last night we were playing a game of tag at the park. I can never outrun Ryan and he was after me. So, I start running as fast as I can while laughing and frustrated. The best part is when he catches me and plants a big kiss on my lips. Thankful for these happy, silly moments.
539. Blogs. Whoever God gave the idea to for blogs, I am grateful. Just yesterday I read about my friend, Jen having a fun day creating and talking with her friends and it inspired me to want to do the same. I get great ideas and get to stay connected with far away friends. Thank you God for unique ways to stay connected.
540. My brother's happy voice. Yesterday I listened to a voicemail from my brother, who recently moved. His voice was happy and it made me happy too. Thank you God for making us family and creating in me a heart that shares joy and pain with him.
541. My running friends. God, thank you for bringing such ambitious, kind, welcoming and motivating women into my life. I actually look forward to getting up at 5:10 a.m. to run and talk with these women.
542. Ryan's family. I adore his family. Thank you God for giving me so many people to love and that love me. Thank you that my kids LOVE their cousins. Watching the boys wrestle and the girls giggle blesses my heart.
543. Picking up my daughter from school when she's not feeling well. Lord, thank you for letting me be a mom and giving me the opportunity to spend time nurturing my kids and being at home. This task is not always easy, but I am grateful you entrusted me with the job and equip me with all I need and more!
544. Reading with Ryan. Again, I can't get over how full my heart with love for my husband. Lately, we are spending each night on the couch reading the Hunger Games trilogy out loud to one another. The books are good, but the company is great! I am so thankful for these dates!
545. The Holy Spirit prompting me to more scripture memory. I don't know when and if I will ever not have the Bible to freely and openly read, but the Lord has asked that I hide his Word in my heart. So, for His glory and with His help I am going to try and memorize Philippines.
God directed me HERE for a guide on how-to memorize scripture.

I'm still here but...

2010-10-27T11:26:00.000-05:00

...every free moment in the evenings has been spent reading the Hunger Games Trilogy with Ryan! I will be back sometime soon with loads of thanksgiving. Until then, you all should get this book it is a great read!

Family

2010-10-19T21:03:00.000-05:00

Two weekends ago some of my family from the East Coast came to NE for the Texas game (yuck!) and to spend time with us. What a complete delight it was to share our lives with them and have them share their lives with us. I love, love, love that God designed families. Why? Because I rarely see these people and don't often even talk with them, but without hesitation we hug when we meet and they sleep our beds and we share breakfasts and meaningful talks with one another. It's something special about the family bond that we share.

My heart was just overflowing with thankfulness to the Lord when they were here (and even now that they are gone) for...

526. Greeting each other with great big hugs

527. Sharing stories and experiences about healthcare with my uncle and cousin

528. Watching and uncle and seeing so much of my father. In awe of how God makes us unique and the similarities in us as well.

529. A morning run with my cousin.

530. Everyone making dinner together in my kitchen.

531. Good food and delighful conversation...thank you Lord for this pleasure

532. Rob reading to the boys

533. Hallie's admiration of Susanne

534. A walk through a NE forest.

535. My aunt's sincere interest in us and our lives.

536. An opportunity to share our faith, the most important thing to me, with our lives and our words.

Soccer and Birthday Party Pics!

2010-10-18T14:01:00.000-05:00

Soccer for the boys 2010

Zac's 5th Birthday Party at the Pumpkin Patch

Look who's FIVE!

2010-10-16T06:52:00.000-05:00

Today marks Zac's 5th birthday. I am forever grateful for his presence is our lives. I never could have imagined that God would bring a child from Siberia into our family to be our son when Ryan and I first started our family. Here are just some of the countless reasons I am thanking God today for the gift of Zachary...

516. Zac's endless energy

517. The way he loves fruit.

518. He knows he is our son. Just this weekend I saw him point to me and tell some strangers, "That's my mom!"

519. How he makes up songs about God, "God is soooo powerful and soooo strong. God forgives us always, even when we are bad. God is the best." (His latest song went something like that)

520. The way he plays with and loves his brother and sister.

521. His confidence.

522. Watching him play a sport like soccer. The Lord made him to be a little fighter with lots of perseverance and toughness (most the time).

523. How he makes us laugh almost every day.

524. The way his tongue sticks out just a little while he concentrates on his artwork.

525. His bear hugs and huge kisses!

Happy Birthday, son! We love you always and forever!

So thankful...

2010-10-07T15:36:00.001-05:00

500. For the brisk fall air in NE
501. Seasons changing, leaves changing color, change...it is good...it is from God!
502. Hannah living with us again. Her love of life, her smile, her hope. The Jesus joy she imparts to my kiddos.
503. The stars out on an early morning run.
504. My running friends. Conversations with other adoptive parents and new friends.
505. Watching Zac build a worm house.
506. Jacob's healthy body. We had to have a blood test and it was completely normal.
507. Hallie says on the way home from dance, "Mom, I love our home. I just feels so good there."
508. Hannah's comment to us, "Your house is peaceful."
509. Ryan making breakfast for the kids.
510. Listening to Ryan practice spelling words with Hallie.
511. Jacob's writing book from school filled with pictures of him smiling. One page said, "I am happy!"
512. Reading books with Zac at night, snuggling and hearing him say, "Mommy, I love you soooo much!"
513. A 45 minute phone call with my parents.
514. Jean and Doug enjoying an overnight with Hallie. She called the next day to tell me how much she loved their time together.
515. A loving family.

Fall Crafts

2010-10-03T21:01:00.000-05:00

I am not the craftiest person, but when I do enjoy decorating my home for the season. Today, we got our house ready for fall! Here are a few crafty ideas I found...

Sparkling Pumpkin
1. Find a pumpkin at the store. 2. Paint the stem brown with acrylic paint 3. Paint the pumpkin with white glue 4. Apply glitter (we used clear) 5. Let dry.

Bat Garland

1. Buy folded tissue paper. 2. Trace a bat design on the paper and cut out. 3. Tape sections together. 4. Hang from mantel or over windows.

Jack-o-lantern Fruit cups
1. Cut the top of orange off in a circle. 2. Dig out inside of orange with a spoon. 3. Cut out jack-o-lantern face with a knife. 4. Fill with fruit (strawberries, raspberries, apples, grapes...)
5. Enjoy!

Birthday Thanks

2010-09-26T21:02:00.001-05:00

I am 35 years old today and what a glorious day it has been!

Thank you Lord...

486. For choosing to create me. You knew I would fail you and still you chose me and allowed me to be born 35 years ago.

487. For pursuing me in my youth. For making salvation available to me and guiding me by your Holy Spirit.

488. That I was born into a loving family, with parents that are supportive and committed to one another and to their children. That I was given in-laws that have adopted me in as one of their own. So much love and support!!

489. That I was born in the United States. A country with freedom and opportunity and abundance.

490. For kisses on my forehead this morning from my husband as he whispered, "Happy Birthday" while we snuggled in bed.

491. For homemade birthday cards from all the kids. Jake made his tonight and yelled from the other room where he was creating, "Mommy, how do you spell love?"

492. The perfectly perfect weather today. The crisp, fall air.

493. A bike ride with my family.

494. A new bible that fits in my purse. The security of always having God's written Word close at hand.

495. Watching Hallie take Zac around the block on roller blades. She held him, encouraged him, pulled him and cheered him on the whole time.

496. Zac's perseverance. He made it around the block without any complaint and lots of falls. I love his "never give up" attitude.

497. Phone calls, FB posts, texts, letters and cards from friends and family. My heart overflows when I am remembered by so many loving people.

498. Inspiration from the Spirit on ways to draw closer to Him this year.

499. Peace in my home. Lord, you are here. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Thankfulness continues...

2010-09-22T21:17:00.000-05:00

471. Affirmation and wise words from our date night to PATCH.

472. Date night and friends that will love and watch our kids.

473. Seeing answered prayers. Zac is responding to our parenting efforts.

474. Laughing and remembering our silliness from our first year's of marriage.

475. Christ's strength and power seen in my weakness. (Check out Beth's Blog )

476. People from the past making their way back into your life. Excitement and wonder about what the Lord's doing.

477. A great church. Dynamite preaching. Hearing from the Lord.

478. Convicting book.

479. Manicures and lunch with my girl. She's growing up.

480. Walking to school with Zac to pick up Hallie and Jacob. Hallie and Jacob holding my hands on the way home.

481. My husband's spontaneity...let's go somewhere fun for fall break. He's calling KoKo Keys right now!

482. A message from Olga...she helped facilitate Zac's adoption 2 1/2 years ago.

483. Hugs and Kisses.

484. Talking to Jacy on the phone today. I love old, good friends.

485. Giving my grandma a manicure today. She has beautiful hands.

Last, First Day of Preschool

2010-09-09T21:06:00.000-05:00

Today marked the last time I will have a first day of preschool for one of my kids. I have mixed emotions about how I feel about that, but Zac was more than happy to start Purple class at Little Lambs. There were no tears from Zac and his teachers welcomed him with warm smiles. Zac reported that he met a new friend. He didn't know her name but she was nice. And, he said he said that Jack took his Mr. Potato Head and pulled all the pieces off. He was mad but, "I didn't hit him." Well, thank goodness for that! After school we had a fun lunch together at Culver's. Here are some pictures from his wonderful first day.

Parenting the Hurt Child

2010-09-06T21:36:00.001-05:00

Our little Zac has been home with us for almost as long as he was in his birth home and in an orphanage in Russia. There has been so much bonding and most days with him are full of typical brother and sister drama, hugs and kisses, bedtime stories, playdates etc... But, there are times that parenting Zac has been a challenge. Some might say it is just his personality, his age or because he is a boy, and although I believe all those things are a part of why he is who he is, there is a part of him that reacts to situations and people as a result of his lack of attachment to a loving family during his first two and a half years of life.

If you are an adoptive parent you may know what I mean. Over the last two and half years the Holy Spirit has opened my eyes to Zac's unique needs, the needs of a hurt child. I don't mean to seem overly dramatic because certainly all parents have unique children with different temperments, emotional needs and personalities, but for those of you out there considering adopting a child over a year of age I think it is important to understand the differences in parenting a hurt child as opposed to a child that has been in your care since birth. I have found so much valuable information in the book, Parenting the hurt Child by Keck and Kupecky . It talks about the importance of nurturing a child and attaching instead of detaching during times of discipline. I have found it so helpful. Some of the strategies they talk about we have incorporated into our daily life and it is making a big difference one day at a time.

It is easy to have compassion for hurting, orphaned children from afar. But, the Lord called Ryan and I to parent an orphan. He called us to struggle and celebrate life day in and day out with our wonderful son, Zac. As a result, I have been stripped of my parenting pride and have found the Lord strong in my weaknesses. I am thankful for...

463. Challenges that make me wiser

464. My children's unique designs by their Creator, all my kids...Hallie, Jacob and Zachary

465. Our assignment to parent a once orphan, now son

466. Resources that help and are so accessible

467. A husband that partners with me in parenting and leads this family with integrity and love

468. Friends that don't judge or criticize...Darcie and Lisa this week...there are so many!

469. Hugs and encouragement from my parents as they watch me parent

470. Tonight...when I asked Zac what was good about his day he said, "Being here with you. I love you mommy!" And, then I got a hug and a kiss.

It's been awhile...

2010-08-27T20:51:00.000-05:00

...and so many wonderful gifts given from above.

446. Smiles on the first day of school for Jacob (Kindergarten) and Hallie (2nd grade)

447. That pit in my stomach watching Jacob walk into school because I love him so much.
448. The kids making new friends.
449. Goals and dreams for the year at our back to school dinner.

450. Special time with Zac while the others are at school. Our relationship is growing as mom and son...beautiful thing!
451. Silly faces.

452. Grammy days for the kids. They get so excited to spend time with her!
453. My job. Being chosen by God to deliver delicate and sometimes painful news to patients. He gives me the words. So thankful.
454. One of my favorite places on earth is just steps away...the front porch swing with Ryan watching a thunderstorm roll in.
455. Friends that found Jesus and love Him so, so, so much. Getting to reconnect.
456. Fun, laughs, silly adventures with my best friend (Segway tour in Savannah, GA).

457. A wedding. Vows of love before God. Brings me to tears.

458. A vacation with Ryan. I love and cherish him so much. There is no one I would rather spend my ordinary or extraordinary days with. So thankful God chose him for me.

459. Walking in the warm rain, body surfing in the ocean, watching dolfins dive and standing in awe of his creation. Make for His glory and for our enjoyment as well.

460. Reconnecting. God knitting lives and hearts together.
461. Coming home. Makes me think of how wonderful it will be to one day go home to Jesus!

Grace Continued

2010-08-19T15:37:00.000-05:00

So, yesterday Zac said some words that were very hurtful. Today, as I was driving him to Grammy's he says, "Mommy, just to tell you. Yesterday when I said _________ that was a sin. I am sorry but, the good thing is that God just swishes it away."

Slowly, but surely the Lord is working on this little guy's heart. As an adoptive parent I notice times when he is struggling with trust, control and anger because of this traumatic beginnings. I can get discouraged and overwhelmed, but then he says something like this and I know the Lord is teaching him how to trust and let go of anger. His grace is enough!

Grace

2010-08-18T20:27:00.000-05:00

“What I need as a mother is grace. God’s grace, that allows me to fail and try again, that allows me to ask for help when I don’t have the wisdom or patience I need, that reminds me we’re not alone in this, and that God loves my son even more than I do. And grace from other mothers. I need grace and truth-telling and camaraderie from other moms. I need us to tell the truth about how hard it is, and I need us to help each other, instead of hiding behind the pretense and pressure of perfection.

————-

Let’s think about grace—grace from a God who loves us and values us and picks us up every time we fall, with just exactly the same love and tenderness you feel when you pick up your kids after they have fallen. And the grace we show one another when we drop the comparisons and the catalog images and really walk with one another, on the good days and the bad days. Let’s think about honesty and helping and telling our stories. Let’s give each other a break and a little help and some soft places to land.

If you’re a mom, what you do is nurture and protect and give grace. You do it all the time, and it’s very important, because it reminds us, in daily, tangible ways how God nurtures and protects and gives grace. And maybe today the one who really needs that nurturing and protection and grace is you.”

(S. Niequist)

My good friend posted this on her blog today and I had to do the same. Today, I needed grace. From my friend, my child and my Savior. I was thankful for:

441. A friend who spoke the truth in love.

442. How that truth caused change for good.

443. Wisdom from the Holy Spirit.

444. Grace to forgive.

445. The promise of mercy fresh and new every morning.

Never a Dull Moment...

2010-08-10T21:04:00.001-05:00

...with Zac around!

Sometimes I forget how funny he is because I get to be with him every day. Then, some stranger will laugh and smile at his antics and I am reminded how boring life would be without him around. Zac certainly is the spice in our life!

Two recent events, one dramatic and the other just funny.

Drama first...Last week Ryan and I headed over to a little lake and decided to walk around the path with the boys. Of course, in no time at all they were down by the water, picking up goose poop and scaring the ducks away. Staying on the path and leisuring walking was not an option for a 4 and 6 year old boys. I remember thinking how much I adore their curiosity. Well, curiosity turned into chaos when Zac was standing on a cement platform that extended out into the lake and threw a rock. The forward motion caused him to loose his balance and, you guessed it, he fell right in. Fortunately, he has loved the water this summer so he bobbed up to the surface quickly and started dogging-paddling his way to the edge. Ryan was there in no time and pulled him out of the water. His sweatpants, tennis shoes and hat were all soaking wet but not one tear of fear was shed. In fact, I think he was kind of proud of himself for how well he swam. Like I said above...never a dull moment!

Funny...last night we were headed to Hallie and Jacob's Open House at school. Zac was so excited to go and I couldn't figure out why. So, he got all dressed up in his favorite summer outfit (sweatpants, a 12 month muscle shirt that says "Where's the Beef" from 1985 and a doo-rag) to head over to school. On the way there he says, "I am so excited for the fun house!" We corrected him and said, "No, Zac. It is an Open House. You will have to be quiet and let Hallie and Jacob find there classrooms. You will need to be quiet." His smile turned upside down and he replies, "Dad, that is soooo lame."

JACOB IS SIX

2010-08-02T06:54:00.000-05:00

My sweet boy is six years old today! As I look through the pictures I have of him growing up I have a thankful ache in my heart. Thankful that I have been blessed by six years with this wonderful child and an ache for how quickly my time with him is flying by.

Why I am grateful for Jacob:

427. His peaceful, calm, adaptable disposition
428. The way the corner of his eyes crinkle up when he smiles
429. His hearty laugh
430. Watching him play sports
431. The way he calls me "mama"
432. He asks for extra snuggles at night before bed
433. His singing voice
434. Watching his fingers play the piano
434. Putting legos together with him
435. He is such a kind friend.
436. He loves to sleep in.
437. Our special handshake/clap that we do together.
438. His heart becoming more tender to the things of God
439. Our silly goodnight kiss...we both laugh so hard together
440. Six years with him as my son. He is such a gift from God!

1 month old

2 months old

3 months old

4 months old

5 months old

6 months old

7 months old

8 months old

9 months old

10 months old

11 months old

1 year old

2 years old

3 years old

4 years old

5 years old
6 YEARS OLD!

Family Vacation

2010-07-25T14:36:00.000-05:00

Ryan and I were so excited to take our first mini-van, family vacation (are you thinking about the Griswald's?)! We planned a trip to Cheyenne, WY and Estes Park, CO. Our trip had it's ups and downs as most family trips do, but for the most part it was delightful. I just love my family so much and this trip was a great way to celebrate just that! Let me show you a glimpse of our trip through pictures and thanks.

Ephesians 3:20-21 "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."

411. The extra blue skies and wide open spaces of Wyoming.

412. My sister's laundry blowing and drying in the Wyoming wind. So simple.

413. Shawn and Lisa's inspiration to recycle and reuse. The hard work put into making something old come alive and look beautiful and new.

414. Talking with my sister. Sharing our families and lives. She is such a gift to me. I learn so much from watching my little sister!

415. Cousins that squeal with excitement when they meet. Sharing experiences with cousins that are close in age.

416. Tyler's chatter, his hugs, blowing kisses. His parents are teaching him well. (I just laugh when I look at this picture..cracks me up!)

417. Ryan and Shawn's relationship as brother-in-laws. Unexpected friends.

418. Enjoying God's creation with my kids. Seeing the kids climb rocks and hike with so much joy!

419. My dear, dear friends' parents/in-laws that let us stay in Estes Park at their condo. Their kindness never ceases to amaze me. I want to grow up to be as generous as they are.

420. Reading a book with this in front of me and a breeze gently brushing against my cheek.

421. Riding horses with my kids into the forest.

422. Laughing with the kids when the horses needed a pit stop to pee!

423. Zac picking me wildflowers throughout the whole entire trip.

424. Hugging Evan and Rhonda. Listening to my dear friend talk honestly about faith and hope. Rhonda is hoping for God's healing, but also preparing her son's heart for eternity. She is teaching him to have no fear and to find God's provision in every single day. Her life, her testimony of faith is real and alive!

425. Dream-talking with my dear husband on the way home (9 hours).

426. Contentment and joy in coming home.

2 Corinthians 5:17

2010-07-11T21:43:00.000-05:00

"If anyone is in Christ he is a new creation, the old is gone and the new has come!" 2 Cor 5:17

410.

What a glorious celebration our family had today! Hallie has made a decision for Christ and decided to make her commitment public and obey Jesus by being baptized today! Oh, the joy that rose up in my heart to see her daddy baptize her!

A few weeks ago she told us she wanted to be baptized. We asked her why and she was able to tell us..."I make bad choices and that is sin. Jesus died on the cross for my sins and I choose to follow Him. Since he told me to get baptized I want to get baptized."

All of heaven celebrated with our family today! Praise God for His unfailing love and His mercy shown to our daughter, Hallie! AMEN!

Fourth, Family, Fun

2010-07-07T07:42:00.000-05:00

Fourth of July weekend

2010-07-06T22:06:00.000-05:00

We celebrated a busy, fun-filled, late nights Fourth of July weekend with both sides of our family. We got to see all the cousins, watch wonderful fireworks displays, eat too much food and spend a day at a theme park in Iowa! I will be back with pictures later in the week...

400. Jake's grin when we saw him after five days at Nannie and Poppie's house.
401. Cousins playing and laughing together.
402. Close, tight-knit, love-no-matter-what family.
403. Reading with Ryan.
404. Riding with Hallie on her first roller coaster ride (even though she was not a fan).
405. Jake's caution.
406. Zac's no-fear, i will try anything, attitude.
407. Ryan and I acting like kids (we wanted to go to Adventureland more than the kids!)
408. My kids endurance...7 hours at a theme park without whining.
409. Freedom we have in America to talk about Jesus!!

Long overdue!

2010-06-28T11:49:00.000-05:00

My weekly blogging has been lacking with all the summer fun at our house, but the daily gifts from the Father never fail!
Lord, thanks for...

386. Jacob's contented temperment

387. Zac's spirited, ambitious temperment

388. Hallie's sweet, thoughtful temperment

389. Jake on the car ride to Kearney spontaneously saying, "Mom, isn't that a beautiful sunset."

390. God's mercy in revealing Himself to my child in a sunset.

391. Zac handing me a heart bead and saying, "Mommy this is my heart. I love you!"

392. Knowing God is working on his heart because all love is from the Father.

393. Hallie always picking family first.

394. Hallie is talking about being baptized. She told us about her understanding of Jesus. She said, "I know that I make bad choices and that is sin. Jesus died for my sin and I choose to follow Him. And, He told me to get baptized." His gift of eternal life for my dear daughter.

395. Sleeping in my childhood room under soft, cozy sheets.

396. My daddy taking care of me...he gave this 34 year old gas money and a $5 for a coffee on the way out of town.

397. My parents energy to lovingly and enjoyably spend a week with each of my kids this summer.

398. Summer yard projects with an enthusiastic husband.

399. Great summer reads... Son of Hamas, Screwtape Letters, Ruth...Love, Loss and Legacy. (Insights to come if I have the time to jot down my thoughts on this blog)

So, Jake told me...

2010-06-22T13:20:00.000-05:00

...he was reading the bible. I had my suspicions because he can not yet read. So, I asked him to show me. He picks up his King James Bible and says, "See I made it this far." He is well into the new testament and so I say, "Wow! So, how are you doing that?" He told me, "Well, I go through the pages and find words I can sound out and then I read those. It's really hard."

No kidding!

Quote of the Day from Zac

2010-06-17T07:45:00.000-05:00

Zac has been at "Ranch Camp" aka VBS this week at church. They are collecting things for children in Romania with For God's Children International.

This morning Zac says to Ryan, "Dad I need some money because there are all these kids that are orphans and don't have a mommy or daddy and we need to help them."

Just love this wonderful son of mine!

(Zac with tape wrapped all around him because he wanted stripes like a zebra)

No Matter What...

2010-06-13T20:55:00.000-05:00

...give thanks!

Today was one of those days. Not terrible, not life altering just one of those days when you take a deep breath after all the kids are in bed (and then one comes down to tell you that can't sleep because it's too bright outside).

I am one that can let my emotions get the best of me if I am not careful. Today is when the discipline of giving thanks redirects my thoughts and keeps my eyes focused on the Author of my faith and not the daily grind. (As I listen to the boys thumping something against the wall in their room when they are supposed to be sleeping).

So, I give thanks for...

367. Healthy children.

368. Riding bikes together as a family.
369. Corporate worship, singing praise to the Father.
370. Dandelion bouquets from my little sweetheart.
371. Watching Daddy teach the boys.

372. Dirty, grimy summer feet.

373. The thrill of loosing yet another tooth.
374. Summer baseball games.
375. Laughing with my middle on the couch, just the two of us laughing so hard our sides hurt.
376. Hallie remembering her brothers and bringing them a treat.
377. A Sunday afternoon drive in the rain.
378. When the kids say "please" and "thank you" without being asked.
379. A quiet evening.
380. Reading, talking on the front porch swing (that is where I am going next.)
381. My beautiful ballerina. Her super smile on stage.

382. Hallie and Jake confidently playing piano and introducing themselves at their piano recital.

383. Grandparents who choose to be involved and present in our lives and our children's lives'.

384. Looking at the garden growing each day. Green tomatoes on the vine.
385. Color. All the beautiful colors in nature that reflect a touch of God's glory, creativity and beauty.

Lord, it is good to give thanks!

Sabbath

2010-06-12T22:08:00.001-05:00

"Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy." Exodus 20:8-11

Tomorrow is the Sabbath. I must be honest in telling you that in the past I have actually said to myself that "keeping the Sabbath" is one command that I can't really seem to fit into my life and week. I chose to disregard one of the ten commandments!

Recently, I had to confess this sin to my Heavenly Father and with His fresh forgiveness I began to ask Him what the Sabbath was all about and how my family can "keep it" each week.

As with any of God's commands and laws, the Sabbath is meant to bless us, not be a drudgery. So, if the Sabbath is meant to bless me and my family then it must not be legalistic, right?

I can see how the Sabbath and it's blessing may evolve and change over the years depending on how God wants to use it in our lives and hearts, but for now I have determined a few things that I think are important in keeping the Sabbath in my family.

1. Prepare for it. It is meant to be a day of rest but I know it can not be restful if my house is a pit. So, during the week the kids and I have chores we do each morning to prepare the house for Sunday's rest. Tonight I even filled the coffee pot with water and laid out the coffee cake, so breakfast would not be work, but instead restful.

2. Don't work. Play and rest! I am so inclined to constantly be picking things up instead of resting or engaging in fun games with my kids. On Sunday I am deciding to quit picking up and instead enjoy my family. All the work will still be there on Monday!

3. Worship the Lord. This means we go to church in the morning or in the evening for the late service. It also means we continue to talk about God and His blessings with our children as we go about our day.

4. It's not about rules, it's a matter of the heart. Our activities (watching a sports show, playing games, going to the pool, playing in the backyard...) may be different every Sunday but we need to let the Spirit guide us into a day of rest, and not make rest a chore because we have to "do it right." I could see myself getting fussy with my family if I had an agenda of everything we had to do or not to do to make the Sabbath "perfect." So, no rules, no agenda.

With that being said, I am looking forward to our Sabbath rest tomorrow with my family and church family!

She's growing up

2010-06-01T21:48:00.000-05:00

Hallie and I had so much fun this past weekend. We enjoyed many moments together and it was a blessing to teach her, laugh with her and love her one on one.

A few stories that make me smile and stirred my heart to give thanks once again to the One who makes all these moments possible...

361. Hallie and I thought we should practice her hair and make-up for her upcoming dance recital this weekend. She usually does not like to curl her hair, so this was a major treat for me!! She was so beautiful with curls and then later with a ballet bun! The best part was the half hour we got to spend talking and "being girls."

362. Next we did make-up. She even let me put mascara on. She was a little leary about it hurting her eyes, but when it did not hurt she turned and looked in the mirror and said, "Oh, mom I like that! It makes my eyes look pretty!" The next day she woke up and asked, "Mom, can I wear mascara today?" My reply was, "absolutely not!" (but I totally understand where she is coming from!).

363. After putting on her costumes she went in to get her daddy's approval. He was wonderful in telling her how beautiful she was. She just glowed and showed us some dance moves in her ballet outfit. Then, we got to talk about how God made girls to love beauty. I just love these memories!

364. Next day I was getting ready to mop the kitchen floor and Hallie asks if she can help. OF COURSE! So, she and I mop the floor together and I got to show her how to get all the little nooks and crannies. In the middle of it she says, "Mom, this is so much fun! Maybe you could give me chores like this to do all summer? I think it would be a lot of fun!" She doesn't have to ask twice!

365. Finally, we headed to the kitchen to make a pasta salad for dinner. My lovely daughter wanted to do it all! So, together I taught her to cook the noodles on the stove, chop the vegetables, mix it all together, and cover it with saran wrap. We had such a delightful time together!

366. During our cleaning and cooking I was able to talk to her about how wonderful it is to be a homemaker and how someday she will bless her husband and kids with a peaceful, clean home and yummy foods to eat. It is such a joy to share the heart of a woman, made in the image of God with my growing girl!

The Graduate

2010-05-29T07:41:00.000-05:00

This last week ended Jacob's preschool year and culminated in his graduation. There is always a part of a mommy that aches and another part that celebrates her kids moving on to the next stage in life. Jacob will be off to Kindergarten in the fall and I will miss him, but he is ready and excited!

I thank God that he has given me the gift of Jacob...

351. The way his eyes smile when his mouth smiles.

352. His hearty laugh

353. The way he winks at me

354. Listening to his crystal clear voice as he sings

355. Watching his strong, small fingers play the piano

356. His beat-boxing. His amazing sense of rhythm.

357. His ability to be a peacemaker, never looking for a fight.

358. The love and the kindness he shows his little brother.

359. Making cookies together.

360. Playing catch with him in the backyard.

Just to name a few reasons why I am so thankful for his daily presence in my life.

Update on Evan Sharp

2010-05-25T08:16:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a long day for me so I can't imagine how tiring it must have been for Dave, Rhonda and Evan! God was at work in big ways and for that I am so thankful.

The facts are: Evan survived a very dangerous surgery and late last night was moving all his extremities after initially being paralyzed on the left side. The pathology diagnosed Evan with a grade four astrocytoma (the worst) and 70% was removed. The remaining 30% will be killed off with chemotherapy which will begin in the next 1-2 weeks. Evan woke up enough to tell his dad that he loved him. 10% of kids with this type of tumor survive.

The praises are:

346. God answered our prayers that Evan would survive his surgery.

347. God allowed him to move all his extremities so much faster than expected.

348. God protected Evan's brain during surgery...he knew who his dad was and that he loved him.

349. God brought together many believers to intercede and pray for Evan for 4 1/2 hours straight.

350. God is a miracle worker and we can trust and pray for all His benefits listed in Psalm 103...forgiveness, healing, giving Evan the desires of his heart. God is good and His Son, Jesus is mighty to save!

You can follow Evan's journey at his caringbridge website. Please continue to pray for him!

Please pray for Evan Sharp

2010-05-22T07:56:00.000-05:00

Our family friends and the doctor I work for just found out that their youngest, nine year old son, Evan, has a very aggressive and life threatening brain tumor. It is called an astrocytoma. Evan has surgery planned for Monday at 2 pm. Fortunately, this tumor can be operated on, but it is deep in the brain and the surgery will take several hours to complete. They have a wonderfully, talented surgeon doing the surgery right here in Omaha.

Those are the facts, but scripture says in Ephesians 6 that the battles we face are more than physical, they are spiritual. And, the tools we have to fight these battles are faith, the Word of God and prayer. We can be confident that prayer for Evan and his family is powerful and effective.

James 5:16 "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."

Whether you know Evan or not would you please bring him before the throne of God in prayer? Would you pray for a hedge of protection to surround him, for skilled hands to perform the surgery and that his body would be healed? Would you pray that his parents and family be unified and at peace? Would you please pray however the Spirit prompts you?

I will keep you posted.

What a weekend!

2010-05-17T20:53:00.001-05:00

I had such a sweet and wonderful weekend. First off, Ryan and I celebrated 12 years of marriage! We both agreed that we are more in love now then on our wedding day and that we like ourselves better because of the other.

325. The shy, blushing feeling I get when Ryan looks right into my eyes and tells me he loves me.

326. Date night with Ryan for our anniversary. Laughing at the table together, holding hands as we walked to the movie, really talking.

327. Choosing to be healthy together. Running a 10K on our anniversary and talking, talking, talking the whole time. Matching shirts to run in because we are dorks!

328. The hope of many more years.

329. Ryan inviting me to pray together last night. Thanking God for being the center of us.

Part of the reason such a wonderful anniversary weekend was possible, was because my parents, sister and her kids were staying at my house this weekend watching our kids. On Saturday (before the date night) all the girls on my mom's side of the family got together to make GiGi's famous coffee cake and cinnamon rolls. While we were baking the boys were trimming, mowing, mulching etc...at home.

330. Two hours in the car talking to my sister, my friend.

331. Cousins playing together, enjoying each other.

332. My parents' generosity. They give and give and give and when you think there isn't any possible way to give anymore, they find a way to give again.

333. Jillian's squeal.

334. Tyler's red hair and the way he says, "Otay (Okay)." Makes me smile.

335. My grandma's hands kneading the dough. Passing on her gifts to my daughter.

336. A five, seven and a ninety-four year old laughing together.

337. The smell of fresh baked cinnamon rolls.

338. The beauty of a green, trimmed and mowed yard. Knowing the hard work and love that went into making it look that way.

And, then today the boys and I took a spontaneous trip to the zoo. They both wanted to dress like superheros and I saw no reason why they should not do just that!

339. Boys skipping at the zoo.

340. The smiles that my superheros brought to EVERY face as we walked around the zoo.

341. Holding their hands and seeing them hold hands and walk together.

342. The baby gorilla licking Zac's hand through the glass and Zac saying, "Ahh, the baby gorilla wants to be my friend."

And, last but not least we planted our garden tonight. Strawberries, tomoatoes, broccoli, sweet peas, zucchini and cucumbers.

343. Ryan's encouragement about my parenting. Little comments that let me know he appreciates and likes the things I do with the kids...zoo, gardening.

344. Hallie helping me pick out the garden plants and seeds. She is growing up, such a mature helper!

345. The kids almost fighting (but not, thank goodness) about who gets to water the seeds and push them into the ground. Simple pleasures!

Mothers Day 2010

2010-05-10T07:14:00.000-05:00

321. My mom...a pillar of strength and beauty. A planner and organizer for the family. Her creativity and ideas always bring our family together and keep us close. My mom's enduring love, always and no matter what, for her kids. Her encouragement as I parent. Mom, I love you and thank you. I'm still learning about how great your love is as I journey through mothering with my daughter.

322. My grandma. My mother's mother. Her smiles yesterday as my boys wrestled and were wild. Her strength and courage to keep living even though it is getting harder for her body. Her love for Jesus passed down to me. Grandma, I love you!

323. My mother-in-law who treats me as her own. You care for us with time and attention. You raised a man I grow more in love with every day and you encourage my mothering with words of affirmation. Thank you for your love, I love you!

324. My sweet daughter. Her desire to be a mom someday just like her great grandma, grandmas and me! If God grants that wish I can see a tenderness in her heart that will love her children unselfishly someday. So grateful to have you as my dear daughter, Hallie. I love you!

A mother's mind...

2010-05-07T10:40:00.000-05:00

...has so many things going on at once! So this is a bit of where my mind has been this morning.

1. I think I need to institute a new culture of prayer with discipline at my house. My kids were picking at each other this morning and my response was to raise my voice and demand better behavior. Hmmm...don't think it's going to work. Our attitudes and behavior comes from the heart, so I am embarking on new endeavor. When we are fighting each other I want to draw our hearts together by uniting us with the peace of Christ through group prayer. I'll let you know how it goes.

2. Jake was off to Kindergarten round-up. Little lump in my throat, longing in my heart to keep him younng as he happily marched off to Mrs. Van Hove's classroom. So happy for him.

3. To do list...mail in payments, e-mail friends from church, get my mother's day gift done for my mom, update my goodreads.

4. Eat a donut and drink coffee while Jake's at school! Yummy!

5. Answer Sherilyn's questions...keeping things light.
1. Where are we going for summer vacation? Estes Park, Wyoming to see my sister!
2. Do I like reality TV? Kind of...we only watch Idol, but I do like to crtic the singers!
3. Have I seen the movie JAWS? No, only the scary scene.
4. Favorite DQ Blizzard? Cookie dough, of course. One a month this summer (maybe more).
5. Newest Fav song? Francesca Batistelli's album.

6. Figuring out what I am going to make for the cookout tonight with neighbors and when I'm going to make it.

8. Planning garden boxes that we will construct tomorrow for our summer vegetable and strawberry garden.

7. Taking Jacob to lunch after round-up then off to work at the clinic for the afternoon.

8. Remembering my kids sweet faces as they slept last night. So thankful they can sleep peacefully and in safety.

9. Thinking about how much a love this multi-tasking and being a wife and mother. Lord, thank you so, so, so much for these abundant gifts. Thank you for the gift of motherhood and the grace to see me through it all!

A lot of happy memories being made around here!

2010-05-03T21:14:00.001-05:00

I'm giving thanks with a grateful heart because this past week and half has been filled with wonderful family memories.

First, we went to North Platte, NE for the kids to do a triathlon and spend the weekend in my hometown with my wonderful folks.

310. Doing a triathlon with all my kids.
311. Making fitness a priority in our family.
312. Watching Hallie smile as she swam in the race.
313. My boys competitive nature driving them to bike hard and run fast.
314. Hallie "living in the moment" and soaking it all in wherever and whatever she is doing. She rode her bike at her own pace and commented to me, "Mom, isn't this fun. Look at the blue sky!"

Second, I was surprised last Friday with a new car! I went to work in my old minivan that was making strange sounds and leaking power steering fluid. I told myself, "you can make this last until the end of the year," but was cringing every time I turned a corner and heard it make an awful sound. So, after work I walk out to get into my car and can't find it anywhere! I call Ryan and tell him that I think my car has been stolen (who would steal my old minivan with so many better options in the parking lot?!). He says, "Well, do you see any other cars you would want to drive home?" I was confused for a minute and then squealed, "did you get me a new car?" It was then that I saw Ryan and the kids in the back of the parking lot in this...

315. How Ryan loves to surprise me and the creative ways he expresses his love for me. The car is great, but his heart of love is priceless.
316. The seats in the van swivel and there is a table in the middle. I'm thankful for the sounds of belly laughs coming from the back seat as my kids play cards together.

Last, but not least, I ran in a half-marathon this past weekend in Lincoln, NE!

317. My new friend, Barbara, that ran with me.
318. The reward of the race after putting in the hard work of training over the last 10 weeks.
319. My husband and kids were there is cheer me on. Encouraging me with hugs, kisses and high fives.
320. Sore muscles...thank you Lord for this body that you have given me.

Family Day 2010

2010-04-22T15:08:00.000-05:00

Today we celebrate two years with Zachary and being a family of five. It was two years ago on the 21st that a Russian court granted our adoption and it was two years ago today that we went to the baby home and picked him up to bring him home. Check out last year's blog entry to see pictures of that day...Here.

This year we are celebrating by donating some money to another family that is trying hard to grow their family through adoption. We decided to give another family the gift of "family" to celebrate ours! We are also all participating in a triathlon together this weekend.

I am forever grateful for my loving family and the gift of my son, Zachary through adoption...

297. Two years with Zachary, but it seems like he has been a part of our family forever. The way God knits our hearts together.

298. Watching three siblings play, love, fight, resolve conflict and defend one another.

299. Zachary's attachment to us as his parents.

300. Zac's affection for his grandparents.

301. Zac's strong will. It served him well in Russia and will continue to bless the world as we lean on the Lord for help in shaping that strong will toward God's.

302. Watching him sleep soundly and contentedly on top of his covers every night. He has slept without covers since the first day he came into our family!

303. The way he looks at me and runs to me when he is hurt.

304. Watching him help his daddy make pancakes every Saturday morning.

305. His cheeks...soft and kissable!

306. His love for accessories (hats, head bands, arm bands, belts, sport shirts...) and how adorable he looks in his soccer hat backwards.

307. Watching his eyes sparkle with his endearing smile.

308. How tight he holds on to me when I carry him.

309. The hope of many more years as a family of five growing together and loving one another with Jesus at the center of it all.

Baseball

2010-04-18T20:39:00.000-05:00

Every day this week Jacob asked me, "Mommy, is today Saturday?" Why? Because Saturday was his first baseball game of the season. This kid loves baseball! He has been a fan of the sport since he was two and this will be his first season playing on a real field, with real baseball attire, coaches pitching and a team name, the Crieghton Bluejays. So the day finally arrived and he couldn't wait to get there! Once the game started he was so serious and focused (not his usual behavior). I couldn't even get him to crack a smile for the camera when he was in his catcher gear. But, when he got back to the dugout after playing catcher he looked at his friend and said, "Trevor, did you see me out there? That was awesome, baby! Oh yeah!"

I was so proud of his determination and focus during the game and I am excited to see how God will use sports in his life to grow his character. What a great kid!!

I was pretty excited for him so I took lots of pictures! See below...

My take on the the latest news...

2010-04-16T12:40:00.000-05:00

...regarding the seven year old boy returned to Russia.

Oh, how my heart grieves for that boy and for his adoptive family. The tragic and appalling response his mother had to his behavior is awful but I wonder what the root of the problem really is. Here is my take on why this all happened. I don't have any where near all the information but statistically the problem could have started a long time ago.

First, this child was abandoned by his biological parents. No doubt this tragedy was a result of poverty and alcoholism, as is the case with so many of the children in Russia. Maybe alcohol had an effect on the formation of that little boy's brain and therefore he already had violent tendencies from birth.

Secondly, this child is placed in an institutional setting to grow up. Even if it was one of the best orphanages in Russia, no child wants to grow up in a daycare setting 24/7 with children between the ages of 1-16. Who knows what kind of abuse and/or neglect occured in the orphanage that contributed to this boy's psychological problems.

Thirdly, Russia has over 700,000 orphans and has been known to lie about a child's healthcare status or mental status.

Fourthly, our system of preparing parents for caring for a post-institutionalized child is poor. There is also a lot of money out there to be had for passing home studies and pushing adoptions through for unprepared parents.

So, you put all that together and you get a mom that is so totally overwhelmed, with poor social supports in place from adoption agencies or otherwise, with a child who needs big time help to overcome his beginnings.

I am not saying her actions were justified at all. I'm just saying that there are layers of problems that need to be addressed. Is the answer to halt adoptions? NO!!!! Is the answer to not promote adoption? NO!!!

The answer is Jesus! The answer is to live like Him and love like Him. We live in a fallen world and as believers we have a big job! Pray for those orphans and pray for the poor. Find ways to serve them financially. Go serve the poor, the widow and the orphan. ADOPT, but prepare yourself. Be educated and prepared!

I pray right now that the boy that has now been abandoned and rejected twice in his life would come to know the unconditional love of Jesus as his Father. Please pray for him too!

"Religion that God the Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and not be polluted by the world." James 1:27

Giving Thanks

2010-04-13T21:07:00.001-05:00

282. My four year old forgiving me.

283. My four year old assuming the book I am carrying is a bible.

284. Last year's sand box toys=hours of fun for two brothers.

285. Neighbors over for an impromptu ice cream date. Our family's becoming family.

286. Jacob's joy in having his "mama" be his group's tour guide at the preschool trip to Hawaii. I am so thrilled I get to help out at his school.

287. Listening to Zac sing, "Hello neighbor" as school. Such a sweet voice.

288. Watching Hallie and Jacob play the piano, and loving it!

289. Reading my friend's blogs. Connecting with my best friends.

290. The view from the stage at church as hurting, devoted Christ followers receive communion. The Lord showing me a glimpse of things unseen.

291. Ryan at the end of a day.

292. The pink flowers right by my computer.

293. Hope that doesn't fail.

294. My brother, my friend.

295. My sister, unspoken love for one another.

296. Reading books with my kids.
297. Spring is Here...buds on trees...new life! "If anyone is in Christ He is a new creation. The old is gone and the new has come." 2 Cor 5:17

Yeah...God is good!