tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69403969653954048282024-02-21T08:41:36.103-05:00One Thousand+ GiftsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-896266147486470772016-12-01T14:01:00.002-05:002016-12-01T14:01:31.896-05:00Introducing...Southern Pear Bowtique<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #222222;">I am thrilled to </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">introduce you to Southern Pear Bowtique LLC - a small business specializing in creating highest quality hair bows and accessories at an affordable price. Customize your order with over 32 solid grosgrain colors in </span><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">addition</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> to many patterned ribbon options. New designs will be released soon! As always, all items are Buy 3 Get 1 FREE or Buy 5 Get 2 FREE! If you know a little girl, please check out Southern Pear!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="color: #222222;">Visit</span><span style="color: #999999;"><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/southernpearbowtique/"><span style="color: #999999;">Southern Pear Bowtique</span></a> </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="background-color: white;">t</span>o see updated designs and colors and to place an order!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #222222;">Please email southernpearbowtique@gmail.com with any questions.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-21966869907329060432016-07-10T14:47:00.000-04:002016-11-30T14:47:33.026-05:00Levi is 4: A Construction Birthday PartyAfter Levi's 3rd birthday he said that he would like a construction party when he turns 4. Amazingly he didn't change his mind for the entire year!<br />
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He was in awe and so happy about his construction cake! It was one of my favorites to make so far!<br />
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Happy birthday to my sweet FOUR year old!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-1586566880561768222015-04-15T07:05:00.000-04:002015-04-15T09:18:11.368-04:00Twirly SkirtsIf her closet was full of twirly skirts, and only twirly skirts, my daughter would be the happiest, twirliest little girl you could imagine. When trying on skirts and dresses, she will do a quick spin or two to test the skirts "twirly-ness." If it doesn't pass the test, off it goes.<br />
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This dress has placed #1 in the "twirliest" category. Regardless of the temperature or where we are going, she would choose to wear this dress all day, every day (she'd probably even sleep in it if she could!).</div>
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As I was thinking about the importance of twirly skirts in her little life, I came to the conclusion that she loves twirly skirts likely because they are fun, make her feel pretty, elicit smiles and giggles, and she thoroughly enjoys them.</div>
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As I related this to my adult life, I have been thinking about the things that I enjoy....not the to-do list parts of my day, but the extra, "nonessential" things that bring me joy. </div>
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As a busy mother, I realize that I have let these simple joys take a back seat as I believe that I don't have the time or need for them anymore. But I do. And to be the best wife, mom, and friend, I need to make the time for myself again. My Hero gave me a great book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fringe-Hours-Making-Time-You/dp/0800723481/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1429095784&sr=8-1&keywords=the+fringe+hours">The Fringe Hours</a>. I'm almost finished and I will hopefully share some wisdom I have learned soon.</div>
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In the meantime...today while my girl asks to wear her twirliest skirt once more, I am going to enjoy this early morning quiet space to look at pictures and write and then later I'll bake something delicious...maybe even a new recipe I've saved to make one day but never made the time!</div>
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What do you, my fellow busy mother friend, need to do? What are your God-given passions? Do you need to paint? Read a book? Play an instrument? Scrapbook? Encourage a friend? Volunteer? Enjoy a massage? Get a pedicure? Roll the windows down and sing your favorite song? Sit on your front porch and relax for a few minutes? <br />
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Take a few moments for YOU and enjoy today. </div>
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<i>You will never find time for anything. If you want time, you must make it. ~</i>Charles Bixton</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-24452506089318096022015-02-11T21:58:00.000-05:002016-04-16T07:34:32.090-04:00Thank you, Levi My precious, blue-eyed son,<br />
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Thank you, Levi, for wanting to see me so much every morning that you wake up hours before the sun comes up calling "Mommy." As tired as I am, I love folding up around you in your crib-sized toddler bed for as many extra minutes of quiet cuddle time as you will allow. <br />
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Thank you for your sweet, baby voice. I love how you pronounce words such as "fire twuck," "lellow," "free" (3), and "mall" (small). You are too cute and you make me smile as I think about the fact that you won't always talk like a little baby boy. You remind me to rest in the present.<br />
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Thank you for telling me that I am beautiful, sparkling, and shining. You are going to be an incredible husband one day. Until then, you can keep telling me that I look "boo-ti-ful." :)<br />
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Thank you for being constantly on the go. You are the reason I do not need a gym membership!<br />
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Thank you for doing silly things just so other people will laugh. I need to laugh more, don't I? <br />
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Thank you for reminding me to keep calm and take a deep breath when "quiet time" turns into disaster zone in the blink of an eye. Moments like these make me pray continuously so that I won't lose my mind. Your Mama likes cleanliness, organization, and neatness. You don't. Maybe we need to meet in the middle...you can teach me to be more carefree and I can teach you the importance of order and organization?<br />
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Thank you for making me feel like the best chef around. You still eat like a champ and I greatly appreciate it!!!<br />
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Thank you for wrapping your arms around my neck when you ask me to hold you (and when I pick you up just because I can). You still melt into my arms. I prayed for a cuddly baby while I was pregnant with you and God certainly answered that prayer.<br />
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Thank you, my sweet boy, for asking me to "wok" (rock) you every night before bed. Thank you that after a few minutes of prayers, songs, and cuddles you want us to get under the green blanket in your bed and snuggle until you fall asleep. Do you know that you rest your hands on my cheeks to fall asleep? As your breathing slows down and deepens, and your little body relaxes, you allow me a few moments to unwind from our wild and crazy day. A few minutes to pray for you. Time to think about all the things I am so grateful for. And time for the frustrations and weariness I felt throughout the day to subside and for the most important aspects of my life to come to the front.<br />
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Thank you, my Levi, for the true joy you are. Thank you for being you. As I wrote in <a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2014/11/thank-you-addison.html">Addison's letter</a>, nothing has made me depend on Jesus more and nothing has made me want to teach someone more about Jesus than being your Mommy and Addison's Mommy. I love every day with you, and I am more thankful for you than you will ever know. You are the perfect gift, and Daddy and I adore you.<br />
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All of my love,<br />
Mommy<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-72089485855477181492014-11-07T23:25:00.002-05:002016-04-16T07:35:21.474-04:00Thank you, AddisonMy dear sweet girl,<br />
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Thank you for asking me if we could paint today. You don't think about the mess that will follow, but I do. Maybe I shouldn't.<br />
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Thank you for asking me to play the ABC Letter game with you. You don't realize that the moment I get your brother in his room for nap time (which unfortunately is usually just "quiet time" at this point, but it isn't very quiet at all...) is my springboard to getting as many items checked off of my to-do list as I can. But that's ok. I will make the time to play a game with you because you are more important than any empty checkbox waiting to be marked.<br />
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Thank you for inviting me to go on your pretend beach trip. You know I love the beach, don't you? Thank you for driving our imaginary car. You let me sit back and enjoy the scenery. I'm still amazed that it took us .2 seconds to get there. :)<br />
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Thank you for asking me to dance with you. You know dancing isn't a part of my daily routine unless you ask me to? But I always enjoy dancing with you, especially when you smile and copy my movements and then you ask me to imitate you. You are a better dancer than me. Always have been. I love that about you...how you are so care-free and expressive. You are beautiful, my girl. I have a lot to learn from you.<br />
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Thank you for laughing at something silly that I wouldn't have laughed at if it wasn't for you.<br />
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Thank you for watching out for your brother when we went somewhere new. You took his hand, encouraged him, made sure he was safe, taught him what to do, and never let him out of your sight. You are the best big sister. Ever.<br />
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Thank you for offering to help me make breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You have such a servant's heart, and I will welcome your assistance and company any time. Thank you.<br />
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And thank you for hugging my arm and telling me you love me while you were walking next to me at the grocery store. That means so much to me. I love you too, with every ounce of my being. You are a precious treasure to me and Daddy. You are a ray of sunshine. God blessed us tremendously with you. <br />
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When you were born I never realized how much YOU would teach me about what it means to become more like Christ. Thank you for the hard days, the good days, the tiring days, the restful days, the sad days, the happy days, and every day in between. Each moment of each day requires me to make a choice...do I choose to honor Christ with my actions, thoughts, and words? Being a parent is wonderful, but also very challenging. Nothing has made me depend on Jesus more and nothing has made me want to teach someone more about Him.<br />
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All of my love,<br />
Mommy<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-72594382569050195132014-08-06T23:14:00.002-04:002016-04-16T07:36:17.898-04:00This SeasonWe've all heard the saying, "The days seem long but the years are short" as it relates to raising children. With My Hero's schedule, these days can certainly seem very long. All too easily, I find myself focusing on the exhaustion and messes and the constant desire to be alone for more than 30 seconds. I am gently reminded that this is a <strong><em>season</em></strong>...even though it seems like some of the less-desirable characteristics of toddlerhood will last forever, they really won't. This present everydayness of the everyday will soon just be memories. Stepping back and looking at the bigger picture makes me appreciate even the messes and neediness of my children right now. It won't be like this for long.<br />
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Focusing on the gifts of this present season...<br />
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Daddy walks in the door from work. He's greeted with his little boy's delight, "DADDY!!! HUG!", and left with a perfect vanilla yogurt handprint on his navy uniform.<br />
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An unusual 3:45am "Mama" wake-up cry simply because he wanted to be cuddled and rocked by his Mama and only his Mama.<br />
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My sigh of relief come 8:00pm when both of my babies are tucked in bed.<br />
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Holding hands across the street. Feeling that little hand fiercely pull away from mine in an act of independence. Training them in obedience and smiling as that squishy little hand returns to rest in mine. <br />
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Singing and dancing together and performing a "choreograph" as my daughter requests<br />
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Asking, "do you want to go to the playground?" and seeing their obvious excitement by their jumps of joy and squeals. <br />
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Knowing that even the simplest thing can bring the greatest excitement and happiness to their little lives.<br />
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Shopping like a crazy lady while they are peacefully eating their cookie from the grocery store bakery. Fearing what will most certainly happen in approximately 2 minutes....the little one will soon be determined to get out of the shopping cart and the older one will have to go to the bathroom, immediately.<br />
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Baby voice saying "Wuv woo Mommy."<br />
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Hearing their morning wake up noises on the monitor and praying that God would help me through this day. Dependence.<br />
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Reminding myself that they are young. So young...less than the fingers on one hand. What a privilege it is to guide and cheer for them as they grow up.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Mary Anne Morgan Photography</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Mary Anne Morgan Photography</td></tr>
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Letter magnets splattered across the refrigerator proudly displaying crayon masterpieces.<br />
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Inviting them to get the mail with me and bracing and mentally preparing for the resistance that will come when it's time to walk back inside. A teachable moment (again).<br />
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Washing dishes. Looking up one plate later and finding every couch cushion and pillow thrown across the floor. Laughter. Giggles. Squeals. A reminder to just let them be kids and have fun.<br />
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Remembering that a mess can also be called <em>learning, creativity,</em> and good for the <em>senses. </em><br />
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Sweeping crumbs, both big and small, after every meal. We have more than we need.<br />
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Waking up very early (or earlier than early) so I can hopefully, maybe, possibly take an uninterrupted shower and dry my hair. Relying on God for my strength.<br />
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Hugs....oh, the tight little-armed squeezes around my neck.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-57571018072100649722014-05-08T16:19:00.001-04:002016-04-16T07:36:57.523-04:00Children: A GiftLike the vast majority of mothers, I love my children fiercely, unconditionally, and whole-heartedly. I am not a "crier," but I find myself with tears in my eyes as I marvel at who God has entrusted to My Hero and me. They are more than an answer to every prayer.<br />
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Above all else, children are a GIFT.<br />
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It hurts to reflect on the times my selfish lens has taken over and I've viewed my GIFTS as an inconvenience. The reason my house cannot get clean. The reason I'm always tired. The reason I desperately want alone time.<br />
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If God gave my daughter to us as a GIFT and my son to us as a GIFT, then how would He desire for me to spend my days unwrapping these one-of-a-kind presents?<br />
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I know. He wants me to marvel and to be overflowing with gratitude and joy. He wants me to treat them with patience and understanding. He wants me to use calm, gentle words. He wants me to make the effort to connect with them on a deep, emotional level. He wants me to lovingly correct their behavior and teach them about their Maker.<br />
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Recently I've been making an intentional effort to interact with my children while viewing them though the lens of a grateful heart for the most precious gifts I could have ever been given...<br />
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After singing songs, praying, and cuddling with my sweet boy before bed I hear his happy, toddler voice say, "pees tickcul?" This is my cue to lean over and kiss his neck over and over until he laughs so hard he needs to catch his breath. Then he holds out his baby hand and says, "pees tickul?" Again, I kiss the palm of his hand until I can't help myself but laugh in response to his contagious giggles. And I think.....God is happy. He sees me fully loving and ENJOYING the gift He gave me.<br />
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I'm pushing my daughter on the swing. She can pump her thin, long legs all by herself but she still asks me to push her. I like being needed. I like talking to her and listening. We sing songs. We talk about Who made the birds, blue sky, tall trees and the butterfly that flew by. And I think....God is happy. He sees me investing in the gift He gave me, getting to know her heart, and ENJOYING her.<br />
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This Mother's Day, I hope that you can join me ENJOYING the gifts God has given us...our children.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-65348488687681190712014-03-16T23:11:00.000-04:002016-04-18T06:42:54.768-04:00Through the MotionsThe busier my days become the more I find myself going through the motions....<br />
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Bible study....check<br />
breakfast...check<br />
errands....check<br />
lunch...check<br />
naptime...check<br />
tackle my long to-do list...check<br />
do school with my daughter...check<br />
dinner....check<br />
bed...check<br />
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Last week at <a href="https://www.bsfinternational.org/">Bible Study Fellowship</a>, the teaching leader said "who wants to be loved like an item on a checklist?"<br />
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The answer: No one.<br />
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Not God. Not my husband. Not my children. Not my family. Not my friends. No one.<br />
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The more I <em>have</em> to do the more I feel like the things I <em>want</em> to do become another item to be checked off.<br />
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I've taken a step back today, realizing and noticing what is occupying not only my actions throughout the day but also my mind. It's easy to do a puzzle with my children while thinking about the work that needs to be done surrounding me. I re-read this post (<a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2011/06/wherever-you-are-be-all-there.html">Wherever you are, be all there</a>), took a deep breath, and felt myself relax.<br />
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I was reminded of Ann's words..."Don't I always have the choice to be fully attentive? Simplicity is ultimately a matter of focus. <i>Eucharisteo, eucharisteo.</i> That keeps the focus simple - sacred." And later, "Giving thanks for one thousand things is ultimately an invitation to slow time down with weight of full attention... 'Wherever you are, be all there' is only possible in the posture of <i>eucharisteo</i>. <i>I want to slow down and taste life, give thanks, and see God."</i><br />
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So today, prayerfully, I am slowing down and drinking up the beauty of my days. I am seeing God. I won't look back on this time as a blur because it won't be. My to-do list will be prioritized and accomplished and yet I will be fully present wherever I am. <br />
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I am spending time with God because I long to not because I need to finish today's Bible study lesson. <br />
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I am genuinely engaging in whatever activities my children invite me to play with them.<br />
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I am counting gifts.<br />
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I am watching him while he sleeps.<br />
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I am taking pictures of the everyday-ness of my every day.<br />
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I am on the floor playing with my little loves.<br />
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We are taking family day-trips to places that feed our souls.<br />
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I am viewing this past week with sick babies who can't sleep all night as more opportunities to snuggle and kiss their soft cheeks.<br />
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I am putting my phone down.<br />
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<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2010/11/10-point-manifesto-of-joyful-parenting-free-printable/">Today my priorities will be all Things Unseen</a><br />
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I am welcoming the end of naptime.<br />
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I won't rely on my own strength.<br />
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I will re-read this often , "<em>Glorifying and enjoying Me </em>is a higher priority than maintaining a tidy, structured life. Give up your striving to keep everything under control- an impossible task and a waste of precious energy." -Sarah Young in <em>Jesus Calling</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-52534571632758043582014-01-20T06:30:00.000-05:002016-04-16T07:37:51.200-04:00Addison's Winter Wonderland 4th Birthday Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Addison says that her favorite season is winter. Since we probably won't get any snow outside this year, we decided to bring some snow inside! She was delighted with her Winter Wonderland birthday party! </div>
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Thank you, friends and family, for celebrating our little girl with us! She felt so loved and it was a very special day!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-47615273222144154092014-01-18T20:17:00.001-05:002014-01-23T20:58:34.620-05:00New Year, New Word, 2014<span style="font-family: inherit;">A new year brings new excitement, especially as I think about choosing a </span><a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/12/word-for-2013.html"><span style="font-family: inherit;">new word</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. It has been amazing to see how God has used each word I've chosen in a unique way over these past several years. In 2014, My Hero and I are teaming up to gain more wisdom on parenting. While we rely most heavily on the Bible and promptings from the Holy Spirit as our guide, we are making the time to read several books this year (which will be quite the accomplishment as there is little time in our schedules to actually sit down and read a book!). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So, my word for 2014: </span><span style="font-size: large;">Parent </span><span style="font-size: small;">(as in the verb, not the noun)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is our bookshelf for the year (we will each read 6-7 books):</span><br />
<u> </u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/How-Really-Love-Your-Child-ebook/dp/B009H7J72E/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666410&sr=1-1&keywords=how+to+really+love+your+child">How To Really Love Your Child</a><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Discipline-That-Connects-Childs-Heart-ebook/dp/B006TI8FI6/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666457&sr=1-1&keywords=discipline+that+connects+with+your+child%27s+heart">Discipline that Connects with Your Child's Heart</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/5-Love-Languages-Children-ebook/dp/B006YYUO98/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666523&sr=1-1&keywords=the+5+love+languages+of+children">The 5 Love Languages of Children</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Your-Powerful-Child-Bringing-ebook/dp/B00CIUJWTK/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666561&sr=1-1&keywords=parenting+your+powerful+child">Parenting Your Powerful Child</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Give-Grace-Foreword-Tullian-Tchividjian-ebook/dp/B0050C86CW/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666592&sr=1-1&keywords=give+them+grace">Give Them Grace</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/New-Strong-Willed-Child-James-Dobson-ebook/dp/B00AEB3BRY/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666646&sr=1-1&keywords=the+new+strong+willed+child">The New Strong-Willed Child</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ministry-Motherhood-Following-Reaching-Children-ebook/dp/B001PU7W8W/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666690&sr=1-1&keywords=the+ministry+of+motherhood">The Ministry of Motherhood</a></span> OR <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mission-Motherhood-Touching-Childs-Eternity-ebook/dp/B001PU7W6O/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666690&sr=1-2&keywords=the+ministry+of+motherhood">The Mission of Motherhood</a><br />
<u> </u><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cant-Make-Persuaded-Revised-Updated-ebook/dp/B007PFDPOG/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389701767&sr=1-1&keywords=you+can%27t+make+me+but+i+can+be+persuaded">You Can't Make Me but I Can Be Persuaded</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Isnt-Cowards-Americas-Best-Loved-ebook/dp/B004GXB3Y4/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389701809&sr=1-1&keywords=parenting+is+not+for+cowards">Parenting Isn't for Cowards</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Aarons-Way-Journey-Strong-Willed-Child-ebook/dp/B003719GEA/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389701857&sr=1-1&keywords=journey+of+a+strong+willed+child">Journey of a Strong-Willed Child</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Book-Biblical-Wisdom-Raising-ebook/dp/B000W5MI5I/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389701899&sr=1-1&keywords=parenting+by+the+book">Parenting by the Book</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Loving-Kids-Purpose-Heart---Heart-ebook/dp/B0051GN99M/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389701943&sr=1-1&keywords=loving+kids+on+purpose">Loving Our Kids On Purpose</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thats-My-Girl-Protects-Empowers-ebook/dp/B006K1MY3E/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389701976&sr=1-1&keywords=that%27s+my+girl">That's My Girl</a></span><br />
<br />
We plan to read these in the future:<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shepherding-Childs-Heart-Parents-Handbook-Tripp-ebook/dp/B00A6D1NXY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1389666176&sr=8-2&keywords=sheperding+a+childs+heart">Shepherding a Child's Heart</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bringing-Up-Boys-James-Dobson-ebook/dp/B00DQBZ6ZY/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1390159326&sr=1-1&keywords=bringing+up+boys">Bringing Up Boys</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bringing-Girls-Practical-Encouragement-Generation-ebook/dp/B003L1ZZQ4/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1390159326&sr=1-4&keywords=bringing+up+boys">Bringing Up Girls</a><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thats-My-Son-Influence-Character-ebook/dp/B00B85698I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389666221&sr=8-1&keywords=that%27s+my+son">That's My Son</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Intentional-Parenting-Autopilot-Sissy-Goff-ebook/dp/B00A0VP7WA/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666313&sr=1-1&keywords=intentional+parenting">Intentional Parenting</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Man-Making-Strategies-Help-Succeed-ebook/dp/B00B85M4XC/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1389666348&sr=1-1&keywords=a+man+in+the+making+rick+johnson">A Man in the Making</a></span><br />
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I've started off the year reading "How to Really Love Your Child" by Ross Campbell. My mom gave me her 1977 copy shortly after My Hero and I became parents. I enjoyed reading it then, but now that our daughter is 4 I'm finding it much more applicable than it was when she was under 6 months!<br />
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Campbell explains, "By our behavior does a child see our love for him. Our love for a child is conveyed by our behavior toward that child, by what we say and what we do. ...But what we do carries more weight."<br />
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I've been thinking about this statement. I love my children with a love that I never knew was possible until they were born. I can't even come close to putting into words how much I adore them and am grateful for them. Of course they know that I love them because I tell them all of the time and my days are spent loving, serving, and playing with them. But what things do I DO on a daily basis make THEM feel loved? I am sure my answer to this question is often different than their response.<br />
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<strong><em>Is there a disconnect between how I'm showing them love and whether or not they feel unconditionally loved?</em></strong><br />
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In light of this, I've started asking my 4 year old daughter this simple question at the end of each day,<br />
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<em> "What did Mommy do today that made you feel loved?" </em><br />
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Her responses have given me a glimpse into her precious heart. More often than not she has said exactly what I thought she would say, or what I hoped I did that day to convey my love. I will be reading "The 5 Love Languages of Children" next and I'm anxious to learn even more ways I can communicate my love to each of my children most effectively. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-88743939691294074222013-12-03T20:26:00.000-05:002013-12-03T20:27:40.025-05:00Counting down to Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now that my oldest is almost 4, Christmas traditions are in full-swing this year and I am loving it as much as she is!</div>
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I wanted to share a fun way we are doing our Advent calendar for the first time this year. My mom made the adorable, little felt stockings. I hung them up on the bulletin board in our playroom. Each stocking holds a red slip of paper with various activities written on them such as....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzEV7IZmc9MAEWoNnBx8i74moUN70q2LAjs4afrr_oXkEXEL9ZmdZ1MKgsoA1lwvvFwdTHUzWze_xn8gi2uto_uKBLa5wbuCx3LQAmqqC6Gq8s-frQatn1oNvk2jfe990qytwG1CzGrBc/s1600/Diptic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzEV7IZmc9MAEWoNnBx8i74moUN70q2LAjs4afrr_oXkEXEL9ZmdZ1MKgsoA1lwvvFwdTHUzWze_xn8gi2uto_uKBLa5wbuCx3LQAmqqC6Gq8s-frQatn1oNvk2jfe990qytwG1CzGrBc/s400/Diptic.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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-Decorate the Christmas tree</div>
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-Pray for the child who will receive our Operation Christmas Child shoebox</div>
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-Listen to Christmas music all day</div>
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-Write and send a Christmas card to <a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/03/celebrating-our-2nd-babys-life-through.html"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Epen</span></a></div>
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-Drink hot chocolate (with marshmallows) in your Christmas mug</div>
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-Make a card for someone you love and send it in the mail</div>
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-Build a snowman with Play-Doh</div>
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-Find a toy you no longer need and give it to another little boy or girl</div>
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-Write a list of 5 things you are thankful for</div>
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-Make paper snowflakes</div>
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-Attend the holiday program at Mommy's old school</div>
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-Let's snuggle up together and read your favorite Christmas book</div>
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-Watch a Christmas movie in your pajamas</div>
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-Choose a gift from the <a href="http://www.compassion.com/catalog.htm"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">Compassion Gift Catalog</span></a></div>
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-Write thank you notes to your Bible study teachers</div>
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-Bake a birthday cake for Jesus</div>
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-Read the story of Jesus' birth in the Bible</div>
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-Drive around and look at Christmas lights</div>
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-Decorate Christmas cookies with Mam</div>
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-Make a gingerbread house with Grandma</div>
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-Wrap presents</div>
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-Using your nativity tell us the Christmas story</div>
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I'm going to try my best to write more consistently! I enjoy writing and it is good for me to make the time to organize my thoughts and reflect on what God is teaching me, but making the time is the most difficult part! My two Sweeties keep me busy!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-57462678672382706582013-11-22T20:11:00.001-05:002013-11-22T20:11:34.058-05:00Some Thoughts for Moms from MomsA few months ago I asked my friends, via Facebook, if they would share some words of wisdom for a first-time mom. I wanted to share these wonderful words with you...<br />
<br />
<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
CK: 1.Try to
remember to enjoy EVERY moment - good and bad; because it is a "season of
life" that will pass faster than you could ever imagine. 2. Write down the
cute things that your kids say and do (even the things that they do over and
over a million times that you swear you will never forget)...because you WILL
forget. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
DJ: 1- Trust
yourself! You can read and research all you want if there are things you want
some insight on, but YOU were MADE to do this, and you can! 2- Decide what
would help you most (sometimes that means someone holds the baby while you take
a shower or a nap or both, sometimes that means you and the baby hideout while
someone does the dishes or makes dinner) and let people help you! 3- Your little
one WILL cry and at times there might not be anything you can do about it but
endure it. If you need a few minutes to step away and gather yourself, do it! </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
KT: In little
ones, focus less on academics and more on love. I'd rather know a loving,
respectful and compassionate adult than a genius. We are raising adults,
instill the traits you would want to see in a friend. Academics will come, they
will learn, but compassion for others is something not everyone soaks in.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
TP: Something
that affected me and many friends I know, is feeling great guilt over not being
always gushy about being a mother to a newborn. Women make motherhood sound
like a bed of roses, but the duties don't always feel that way so the guilt
sets in, because you read how happy and gushy everyone is feeling over their
child. Please don't get me wrong here, I LOVE my son and would do all of it
over again, but the gush isn't in all of the exhausting days and nights. The
gush is in an unexplainable connection that God truly blesses a mother with for
her child. So my point is, it's normal to feel tired, frustrated or even cranky
at times (for me due to extreme lack of sleep), but that doesn't mean that
sweet amazing connection is not just as real.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
ER: 1) Your
baby is a unique individual with unique needs- listen to your baby and try to
be sensitive to them. They are just trying to adjust to the outside world the
best they can. 2) try to enjoy and savor more and stress less. Anxiety doesn't
help anyone </div>
<br />
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NB: Your kids
will have the most time for you from age 0-4. Guard it; it is precious.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">AL</st1:place></st1:state>:
Advice for first time moms is simple, make sure before you get stressed, too
tired, panic, or frustrated- to take a time out and breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We often get caught in the trap of keeping
things so tailored that we miss the silliness in those moments.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
RP: 1) Go with
your gut. I feel like God gives us mothers that instinct for a reasoning. If
something doesn't feel right to you, don't do it no matter how many people
"swear" by it! Listening to your baby's needs will never steer you
wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2) Enjoy the cuddles as much as
you can. The laundry and dishes can wait. Our babies grow up too fast and those
moments of snuggles really do end quicker than we would like.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
LH: 1. Trust
yourself...you will worry yourself sick thinking about the "how will I
know's"...."how will I know why he's crying"..."how will I
know if he's eaten enough"..."how will I know if he's too warm or too
cold"... trust that your instinct is the perfect guide...we were made to
do this. <br />
2. Know that you will be tired for years to come, your hairstyle will now be a
ponytail and your house will probably not be company ready all the time...but
that's ok...you're working hard to raise a child...the other stuff is not a big
deal at the end of the day. <br />
3. A sound machine in the nursery is a must have!!!</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
RG: When you
feel overwhelmed remember time flies. One day you’re holding that tiny crying
baby and before you realize what's happening you're packing them for college.
Time flies.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
HD: 1. Nothing
will last forever- whether it's the cute little dance they are doing or the
sleepless nights. Meaning take lots of pictures and videos because they won't
do that "too cute" thing for long and don't stress about the others
because they won't last forever. 2. You can do more than you think you can on
less sleep then you ever thought you could! 3. If you are a stay at home mommy remember your list will change. I am a
checklist person and I had to realize some days my list just consisted of
holding and comforting my baby. Feel accomplished everyday as you mold, teach,
and love on that sweet baby! You can vacuum when they go off to school.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
JL: 1. Just as
too many people obsess over a wedding instead of a marriage, don't fixate on
the delivery over raising a child to love the Lord. So many people make such a
big deal about having the perfect delivery experience...including me. I spent
too much energy being devastated over the fact that I had to have a c-section.
What does it matter if the healthy baby is in your arms at the end of the day?
2. Trust that the Lord has a special place in his heart for tired mamas. He
knows you're exhausted. And he knows your needs. You're stronger than you think
you are and can keep going on very little sleep longer than you think you can.
3. Pray! Pray about it all. Give thanks for each little miracle and ask for
help for what may seem like the most trivial thing. Then hug that little baby
and laugh together!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
KK: 1) Extend
grace to your children and yourself often 2) Schedules always change - don't
get overly excited when the baby finally starts napping well and don't get
upset when he wakes up wide-awake at 5am. Each week brings something different
and just when you think you've got everything figured out it changes. 3) Get
down on your child’s level and talk to them while looking into their eyes
throughout the day 4) There isn't a perfect way to raise a child and what works
for the first may or may not work with the others. Seek God's guidance for each
child above anything you'll read in a book. I feel like I've felt the need to
search for the "perfect" answer to the numerous issues we've dealt
with instead of first pouring into the Bible and prayer. 5) Every day I look at
both of them and marvel at God's handiwork and thank Him for the miracle that
they are. Even though I'm weary from an often times defiant toddler and a baby
who still doesn't sleep through the night, I feel like God has given me a great
perspective - I cherish these fleeting days when they still fit in my arms and
I can kiss away any boo-boo. I try to play more, hug more, and listen more. The
housework will always be there, but they are growing up so fast and I don't
want to look back on this time and feel like I was constantly on the go doing
meaningless tasks. 6) Keep your priorities all things unseen (this hangs on our
fridge - <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2010/11/10-point-manifesto-of-joyful-parenting-free-printable">http://www.aholyexperience.com/.../10-point-manifesto-of...</a>).
Yes, the dishes and laundry have to be done, but they should not be my focus.
The unseen eternal impact I’m making on my children needs to be my top
priority.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-45661131089792068002013-10-16T14:58:00.001-04:002016-04-16T07:39:02.765-04:00More Is mothering what I thought it would be? <br />
<br />
Is it what you dreamed the moment you looked into the precious face of your very own baby?<br />
<br />
I've thought about this question over the years. My answer? <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It's more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> love than I could ever describe.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> potential for sadness and pain than I knew possible.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> smiles and laughter.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> tears.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> "I wish I had my video camera for that moment!"<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> "I'm sure glad I didn't catch that on film."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7BehVUsFUdJrGD_Gck4YQIW4aCITz2F2GJxV5GvS_g9G0KuikqK9Rac4i5LvybXdZmyMKo-QFXY3Kh4gePsvcIktia9QbdKqLo-ItgO5IL7CxPYUfI0H7sVmhZCXL1lH46szQG1NuJ0/s1600/IMG_8108ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7BehVUsFUdJrGD_Gck4YQIW4aCITz2F2GJxV5GvS_g9G0KuikqK9Rac4i5LvybXdZmyMKo-QFXY3Kh4gePsvcIktia9QbdKqLo-ItgO5IL7CxPYUfI0H7sVmhZCXL1lH46szQG1NuJ0/s400/IMG_8108ed.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> creativity.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> messes to clean.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> books read.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> pages yet to be turned.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> discoveries of our world through child-like eyes.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> discoveries of who I am and who I desire to be.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wAiIw2cQLQZT4-zA5OqUz3MDraH0B2wx6OOqIVXG2E9KNsx5zRF7rEMepopFvLrJXzY13wT2vYEV2TNLxSdsWt0pB7j2vIrm7QkxPY9kFDaOuT-JgNJ9Ev3a0y2GOooTUiYF2VPbI9g/s1600/IMG_4368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wAiIw2cQLQZT4-zA5OqUz3MDraH0B2wx6OOqIVXG2E9KNsx5zRF7rEMepopFvLrJXzY13wT2vYEV2TNLxSdsWt0pB7j2vIrm7QkxPY9kFDaOuT-JgNJ9Ev3a0y2GOooTUiYF2VPbI9g/s640/IMG_4368.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> sleepless nights.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> feelings of being needed.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> boo-boos.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> hugs and kisses...<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2010/11/10-point-manifesto-of-joyful-parenting-free-printable/">even more as they grow taller</a>.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> teachable moments.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> moments I look back on and wish I taught.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRrpE4kZJobr7o8e7JA3FnewzDq_Mu0teIrZdPk0tIjHOhdcla5f0lGzwekzhyphenhyphenYmx4zbkW82to1TAkcTrio7ZR3FJ31Oq-qoAGGJ-a9JFIlcv7OnitU5qLiJ44pj1vhFLMRQWb7nIGYA/s1600/IMG_4882byes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRrpE4kZJobr7o8e7JA3FnewzDq_Mu0teIrZdPk0tIjHOhdcla5f0lGzwekzhyphenhyphenYmx4zbkW82to1TAkcTrio7ZR3FJ31Oq-qoAGGJ-a9JFIlcv7OnitU5qLiJ44pj1vhFLMRQWb7nIGYA/s640/IMG_4882byes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> asking forgiveness.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> forgiving.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> grace.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> truth.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More </span>patience.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgktGN20SeRW3-jHQwEa1n5S58DUT82Wptj_wqAi85XvB6vq-_mmw2nFufnFsRgnUhSiguEA3PGV58iM6FdzI9oUmC3_MiuEcU0x_UMZFz6FxKTfMUcCtFRh3kB3it4uzeic8SrUPY4jHU/s1600/IMG_2083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgktGN20SeRW3-jHQwEa1n5S58DUT82Wptj_wqAi85XvB6vq-_mmw2nFufnFsRgnUhSiguEA3PGV58iM6FdzI9oUmC3_MiuEcU0x_UMZFz6FxKTfMUcCtFRh3kB3it4uzeic8SrUPY4jHU/s640/IMG_2083.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> fun, play, crafts, outdoor adventures.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> laundry, baths, and dishes.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More </span>questions than answers.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_9t1KLSlYC-YmJmbzcwKn44S8Y1Ms-_vsXEm8n4S1eLnRlIW604cEXORhpb1VJU5meLfXWCoIEdDYQAsqn-jWwneVYoJY-jGqWeY7CEx7LzHiPT2IqiFMNmKpfh9LLOQGn3I_tXxWng/s1600/IMG_6217ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_9t1KLSlYC-YmJmbzcwKn44S8Y1Ms-_vsXEm8n4S1eLnRlIW604cEXORhpb1VJU5meLfXWCoIEdDYQAsqn-jWwneVYoJY-jGqWeY7CEx7LzHiPT2IqiFMNmKpfh9LLOQGn3I_tXxWng/s640/IMG_6217ed.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> love and admiration of My Hero as he is a Daddy.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> desire and appreciation in My Hero's eyes as he watches me be a Mama.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> dependency on God.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">More</span> joy and thanksgiving for the gift of being a mother...when it's what I imagined and when it isn't. I wouldn't change a thing.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-86193005493967173222013-09-05T14:47:00.001-04:002013-09-05T14:47:14.220-04:00A post worth sharingThis post was such a good reminder and couldn't have come at a better time.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.jessmcclenahan.com/2013/09/fill-me-up-lord/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheMacs+%28The+Macs%29">Fill Me Up, Lord</a><br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-64165726128878455372013-08-18T16:12:00.000-04:002016-04-18T06:38:24.257-04:00Reaching her heartAfter an unusually challenging day with my 3-year old, I went into her room after she fell asleep and gently placed my hand on her back. Her blonde hair, still wet from a bath, smelled clean and fruity. Her favorite stuffed bunny was snuggly tucked in under her protective arm. I reflected back on the day. With deep sorrow, I realized that the majority of my thoughts and words were directed at her less-than-desirable behaviors. I felt like I had gotten no where that day. How do I reach her heart and not solely focus on the behavior? Feeling defeated I prayed for wisdom. I knew that I wanted to think of something, right then, that I could do to dwell on and celebrate the many beautiful, noteworthy qualities that truly capture the essence of my precious daughter. I began thinking about who she really is, at the heart-level. I wrote down....<br />
<br />
You are generous.<br />
You are friendly.<br />
You are my big helper.<br />
You are thoughtful.<br />
You are your brother's best friend.<br />
You give the best hugs.<br />
You are a delight.<br />
You are a hard-worker.<br />
You are an encourager.<br />
You make my heart smile.<br />
You are intelligent.<br />
<br />
<br />
I then cut out paper hearts, wrote each truth down on a heart, and decorated her door with them as I dreamed about how excited I was for her to find them in the morning. She did see them first thing the next morning. I couldn't wait to read each heart to her and then tell her a specific example of when she showed that quality. The smiles and obvious pride made my heart soar as I knew I was reaching her heart. She seemed to claim each of these qualities as her own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPoZIp63lIGSureVnq3ikH4BnpPb5Zc2JsvY-VIiHtcXkapvshshwXMPYVJh-ZOJ3f82pJSh5Y_5ku27mVpkOnn5RqUPd8SWKug1R7lhaOo6bYmNzBAm0AxNOzCoou7tA63JrC_ZXvdc/s1600/IMG_9436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPoZIp63lIGSureVnq3ikH4BnpPb5Zc2JsvY-VIiHtcXkapvshshwXMPYVJh-ZOJ3f82pJSh5Y_5ku27mVpkOnn5RqUPd8SWKug1R7lhaOo6bYmNzBAm0AxNOzCoou7tA63JrC_ZXvdc/s400/IMG_9436.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
The next day or so she took the initiative to pick up toys throughout the entire house while I washed the dishes after dinner. Getting down on her level I thanked her for being so helpful and reminded her about the heart that says "You are my BIG HELPER." She smiled. Then I used that as an opportunity to teach her what the word "responsible" means. I told her that I wanted to add another heart to her door that says, "You are responsible." She beamed.<br />
<br />
We are now a few weeks out from that night I decorated her door. I am still seeing huge benefits from this simple idea. She's learned what it means to be generous, encouraging, diligent, and responsible and she loves finding ways to demonstrate these qualities. I add hearts to her door every chance I get and I love it when she tells me something she did and what the new heart should say!<br />
<br />
Not only has this re-focus been good for her, but also me. I love finding every opportunity I can to encourage her and reach her on a heart-level. Of course I still must address the issues that arise, but I don't want to dwell on those and I want to be ready to extend grace and mercy to her.<br />
<strong></strong><br />
<div align="center">
<em>"Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."</em></div>
<div align="center">
~Philippians 4:8</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-75150238274216763682013-07-24T21:22:00.001-04:002016-04-18T06:39:14.885-04:00Levi's 1st Birthday Party - Time Flies (vintage airplanes)I'm still trying to grasp the fact that my baby is 1 even though his birthday and party have come and gone! Still (and will forever be) <a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2013/07/celebrating-levi.html">celebrating </a>his precious little self.<br />
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I had SO much fun planning a very special morning for my little guy. I know he won't remember anything, but he will have these pictures to look at and I hope that every little detail spells love to him. <br />
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Thank you to our dear friends and family who celebrated Levi with us! We love you!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibIX2r5P3mSPevq6Zj3iseLOLAGwP5yMZiV7-tn-qBZxMPyhR0iPqmiiNxlOrpUmSGF8Bhsuwfc6KFDNQU7bM27q_HyxRq7EMw-0cG0BwAbt9Qj-n1aolgsqYBkCdM4onqxK4JqpUSFQ0/s1600/IMG_8720ed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibIX2r5P3mSPevq6Zj3iseLOLAGwP5yMZiV7-tn-qBZxMPyhR0iPqmiiNxlOrpUmSGF8Bhsuwfc6KFDNQU7bM27q_HyxRq7EMw-0cG0BwAbt9Qj-n1aolgsqYBkCdM4onqxK4JqpUSFQ0/s640/IMG_8720ed2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjexXSHJccEmIWszprio977Vrtkwuk7jL2b_55FB2UaB5O8zdqyMWMltu66lFy4j9Dps14-VFHslH3YHkK6A34xUgmejf3rmNr5quvBDOjaxFt-8FdauRYZu5k7QsldAX1zT4LUF636mHM/s1600/%25281%2529IMG_8594Y.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjexXSHJccEmIWszprio977Vrtkwuk7jL2b_55FB2UaB5O8zdqyMWMltu66lFy4j9Dps14-VFHslH3YHkK6A34xUgmejf3rmNr5quvBDOjaxFt-8FdauRYZu5k7QsldAX1zT4LUF636mHM/s640/%25281%2529IMG_8594Y.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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An in-flight breakfast was served.</div>
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<u>The menu</u>:</div>
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-blueberry muffins</div>
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-fruit</div>
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-apple cinnamon oatmeal pancakes</div>
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-buttermilk pancakes</div>
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-chocolate chip pancakes</div>
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-breakfast casserole cupcakes</div>
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-hot drinks</div>
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-milk</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-S78VlQUBgdSfpIuOMlPvH9J2qsu6EHP6XtXhvF-rmL2rj9CcpeVUSiZIj8srkyimFa2CWStRW7_bXBNlgeOVEII3F3i-qEIWany6BYo8U_fZ9dsqFjThDHZ3y-NZeUKFPzlXQprrd9E/s1600/%25282%2529IMG_8624Y.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-S78VlQUBgdSfpIuOMlPvH9J2qsu6EHP6XtXhvF-rmL2rj9CcpeVUSiZIj8srkyimFa2CWStRW7_bXBNlgeOVEII3F3i-qEIWany6BYo8U_fZ9dsqFjThDHZ3y-NZeUKFPzlXQprrd9E/s640/%25282%2529IMG_8624Y.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9j1TFO8GBDLQ-_OLqrfpxC5BAlSqM-UzaAniY82r0M1P8CzM3dVbdAW4cXdnPvpwDptJ8vQx9zPGn3b7QRvxR3fsrLzH2LNs1PDAKvxez4GOeZqoXXEUpU_Eizwnlhef9B3ljTJ2VTw/s1600/%25283%2529IMG_8608Y.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9j1TFO8GBDLQ-_OLqrfpxC5BAlSqM-UzaAniY82r0M1P8CzM3dVbdAW4cXdnPvpwDptJ8vQx9zPGn3b7QRvxR3fsrLzH2LNs1PDAKvxez4GOeZqoXXEUpU_Eizwnlhef9B3ljTJ2VTw/s640/%25283%2529IMG_8608Y.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Bib and airplane shirt made by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Tuckeroos">Tuckeroo's</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhyphenhyphenckcgWNNNrPUhOphnqFdUKrvhuFA0SqFvK205w5QEhxEJFDg3owalhGwCA58JOQX7Gl5RIy6rk9Zvh58ZzaHaAptDBp8q5CE_z5imazHZSwI3xL2G1UhofmdGM5Q09Z72qlHq8Vpuw/s1600/%25287%2529IMG_8702Y.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhyphenhyphenckcgWNNNrPUhOphnqFdUKrvhuFA0SqFvK205w5QEhxEJFDg3owalhGwCA58JOQX7Gl5RIy6rk9Zvh58ZzaHaAptDBp8q5CE_z5imazHZSwI3xL2G1UhofmdGM5Q09Z72qlHq8Vpuw/s640/%25287%2529IMG_8702Y.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNPVzp0dlJQBhNLKt62bve-GlkpracqzpYkBVJ8q08dtQ3ZOGTSlzdEiLEBYq4uVZ7QMhDOChedhs06jrQDRw_80OevcS89BXRNPBFkKpMh8VYpA74UHXctOfqOYRhx7SLRWwsobXPfI0/s1600/%25288%2529IMG_8698Y.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNPVzp0dlJQBhNLKt62bve-GlkpracqzpYkBVJ8q08dtQ3ZOGTSlzdEiLEBYq4uVZ7QMhDOChedhs06jrQDRw_80OevcS89BXRNPBFkKpMh8VYpA74UHXctOfqOYRhx7SLRWwsobXPfI0/s640/%25288%2529IMG_8698Y.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuL3jy8woHXz4AsArwymx1anBMmhCK25mGg1k-jY-iSYcUqZOEg1Mr4OCvFEOkMZuom8dN1KLhKjFW3onMORrNPACMLKaXozA6dw3X_TWO8CPINitL_GWYI9ahyphenhyphenocWYV0T6SyTSDW3EY/s1600/IMG_8708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuL3jy8woHXz4AsArwymx1anBMmhCK25mGg1k-jY-iSYcUqZOEg1Mr4OCvFEOkMZuom8dN1KLhKjFW3onMORrNPACMLKaXozA6dw3X_TWO8CPINitL_GWYI9ahyphenhyphenocWYV0T6SyTSDW3EY/s640/IMG_8708.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you look closely in the top right you can see the airplane flying by! The kids loved these! (Thank you Pappy!)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DOsEO6CFISqPP206Mm32DtDCCurLbODGvOEvv5uf2Ikt4B702qkQIaHKoSnqX0vrUrM2wWonKSXi_25R46Xh1LGUJP5Lp8mB8OIh68WC1GGlaPVUHVSUe0T8v_LT2GKDPRiW3tJUmFk/s1600/IMG_8734ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DOsEO6CFISqPP206Mm32DtDCCurLbODGvOEvv5uf2Ikt4B702qkQIaHKoSnqX0vrUrM2wWonKSXi_25R46Xh1LGUJP5Lp8mB8OIh68WC1GGlaPVUHVSUe0T8v_LT2GKDPRiW3tJUmFk/s640/IMG_8734ed.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happiest birthday sweet boy!! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmdSTjS79xGrcDuFpo90UXY8L8lmTILlG-K_OooYoKiLvs3hr_RgDjNMvaHs5ciSgO-oGYg3kVbbh1vS4KigKR9Mzu-nodlNca6D22zJLC8eGtFlB5DcFUuP1vjPUkhRsDGpt5HYDAlE/s1600/IMG_8725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmdSTjS79xGrcDuFpo90UXY8L8lmTILlG-K_OooYoKiLvs3hr_RgDjNMvaHs5ciSgO-oGYg3kVbbh1vS4KigKR9Mzu-nodlNca6D22zJLC8eGtFlB5DcFUuP1vjPUkhRsDGpt5HYDAlE/s640/IMG_8725.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Party favors - I forgot to take a picture when the basket was full!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2008/07/project-wedding-cake-the-cake-is-baked/">Vanilla Buttermilk Cake</a> and <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2008/07/project-wedding-cake-the-cake-is-baked/">Chocolate Butter Cake</a> recipes...moist and delicious!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-53653642579106316572013-07-01T16:45:00.005-04:002013-07-07T20:55:09.151-04:00Celebrating Levi<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHygmr3UrP6HPb0FEUhJUf8ods-KVboXS99zB454r0RSiHnczSDd2x5Ie6OQwthAq7kaa9ChT6-LGksUJ5rrggfeGkLhAySRx9rc6klcKtAqZhlFFDPj_8X06o78DcGqnuS5emzaLrmw/s1600/IMG_8282ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipHygmr3UrP6HPb0FEUhJUf8ods-KVboXS99zB454r0RSiHnczSDd2x5Ie6OQwthAq7kaa9ChT6-LGksUJ5rrggfeGkLhAySRx9rc6klcKtAqZhlFFDPj_8X06o78DcGqnuS5emzaLrmw/s640/IMG_8282ed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Rockwell;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our precious Levi,</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">One year ago we met you face-to-face
for the very first time. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An entire
year…how is that possible!?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From that
point on we have spent each day marveling at you and thanking God for
entrusting you to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are a
masterpiece and “I sing for joy at the works of His hands” (Psalm 92:4).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As you grow I love
discovering how God created YOU…the only YOU in the entire world!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What elicits those contagious belly-laughs
and melt-your-Mama-smiles?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What concerns
you or makes you hesitate?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you
animated, easy-going, observant, or spunky?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Are you silly or more reserved?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
year we’ve learned the answers to those questions, but the answers will change
with the passing months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Embracing who
you are in this very moment is what I love most about each and every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The way God created you is simply
breath-taking, inside and out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love you, all of you,
my charming son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love your captivating
crystal-blue eyes that twinkle with each smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I see both of your grandfathers in your eyes especially because Mommy
and Daddy don’t have a hint of blue in our eyes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your silky blonde hair frames your handsome,
tan face perfectly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your cheeks beckon
to be kissed and I love the way my kisses sink into them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love when your strong, boy hands grasp my
finger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the wonder you have as
you patiently observe the world around you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then I love watching you try and figure out how something works.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love how you approach situations cautiously
but gain confidence quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love
the fact that you relax quietly in the car, the stroller, or Ergo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t have to be constantly entertained
to enjoy life and I love that quality about you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our fast-paced, entertainment-driven world has
much to learn from your constant contentment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I prayed that you would be a cuddly baby and God certainly answered that
prayer!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You always melt into my arms
before bedtime and throughout the day you crawl into my lap and lay your head
on my shoulder whenever you need a hug.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
love how special you make <st1:place w:st="on">Addison</st1:place> feel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She loves you and knows that you feel the
same way about her. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She can make you
laugh more than anyone and she is rightfully proud when she teaches you something
new!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love watching you read books –
one of your favorite things to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
amaze me with your intelligence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love
the fact that you are very social and wave and smile at everyone, but you are
certain everyone still knows that I am your first choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you for loving me back in such an
obvious way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love cooking for you and
watching you enjoy every thing I make (in less than 5 seconds!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You make me feel like the best chef
around!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have yet to find a food that
you won’t eat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love how you aren’t
afraid to get dirty, crawl around in the grass, and splash in the pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are rough and tumble and all boy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I love YOU.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">From the day we found out
that you were alive and growing inside of me, Daddy and I have been praying
specifically for you, Levi Andrew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
pray that your life would be a reflection of Jesus….a life that loves and
trusts God, strives for integrity, wisdom, courage, and diligence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also pray that God’s covenant with Levi
(as described in Malachi 2:5-6) would describe your life-“he revered me and
stood in awe of my name…true instruction was in his mouth and nothing false was
found on his lips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He walked with me in
peace and uprightness, and turned many from sin.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God has huge plans and a specific purpose for
your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot wait to encourage
you as that plan is revealed. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Daddy and I are so proud of you and we
celebrate every aspect of you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And speaking of Daddy,
are you aware that you have the best Daddy in the world?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is fun, caring, involved, and loves us so
deeply.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, most importantly he
loves Jesus and his life displays His Name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Daddy is a man of integrity, honor, wisdom, courage, generosity,
compassion, gentleness yet strength, and loyalty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He serves unlike anyone I have ever
known.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pray one day you will become a
man who loves and serves his family like Daddy does ours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have so much to learn from him.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy, happy, happy 1<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>st</sup>
birthday sweet boy! I cannot wait for the many adventures we will share this next year! Always reminding myself that </span></span><a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/07/multitude-on-mondays-finding-joy-in.html"><span style="font-family: inherit;">the joy is in the journey</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> so I don't get too sad about you growing up!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">All the love I have,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mama</span></div>
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We will celebrate his birthday at his "Time Flies" airplane party! Can't wait to celebrate this little boy with our friends and family!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-45114664546605193082013-05-31T07:37:00.002-04:002016-04-18T06:40:59.398-04:00Mirrored Closet Doors<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I remember the first time My Hero and I walked through the house that has since become our home. As we made our way to the guest bedrooms I chuckled when I saw the mirrored sliding closet doors. The highlight of my childhood summers was going to the beach. We stayed in the same condo for years and the room my sister and I shared had mirrored sliding closet doors. Every summer, without fail, she and I would stand half-in/half-out of the closet, lift our outside arm and leg up and down while we pretended to be flying. Laughter from that little room poured into the entire condo.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Once the memories faded and I returned back to the present, I wasn't too excited that those eye-sore doors were going to be in my house. Beach condo? Sure. My home? Not so sure. We liked the rest of the house enough that the closet doors weren't a deal-breaker.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Fast forward 5 years and two children later. Those mirrored doors that I once ignored in hopes that they would disappear have actually become one of my favorite parts of my daughter's room and my son's room.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">While I was pregnant with Addison, the closet mirrors proudly showed off my growing baby belly each time I'd linger in her room. After she was born I remember holding her nestled into my chest, gazing in the mirror and thinking, "The picture I see in this mirror is exactly what I have dreamed of for so long." Tonight, I snuggled in bed next to my 3 1/2 year old Addison, looked in the mirror, and saw a beautiful, freshly-bathed, blond-haired little girl reading books with her Mommy. I noticed fingerprints on the mirrors. How many times have I cleaned those fingerprints that are gradually reaching higher and higher with the passing years? I thought back to all the times My Hero and I have tickled her, sang to her, and prayed over her each night. The mirrors give a wonderful perspective into my treasured mothering moments.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">After I nursed my
little 10 month old Levi this evening I stood up to hold him and sing
my favorite "lullaby," <em><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">God
is So Good.</span></em> As always, I held him close and swayed back and
forth while his heavy head rested on my shoulder and the weight of his jammied
baby body molded into me. I looked to my left and took in the ceiling to
floor image displayed on the mirrors. My sweet, sweet boy. A year
ago I stood in this same spot, looked in the mirrors, and smiled as I saw how
he <a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/05/i-want-to-remember-this.html">rounded me</a> and filled me. Now he fills my arms. His legs
fall past my waist and the weight of him is evident by my upper body strength.
My mind raced forward. I see an adventurous little blond-haired boy
skipping rocks across a lake, trying to get his smooth stones to jump farther
than Daddy's. His once "Mama-only" eyes are now enthralled and
in awe of his Daddy who is not only My Hero, but has become his too. I
imagine him coming home from soccer practice, sweaty, dirty, and smelly. In
my present moment I wrap my arms around my baby boy a little tighter, feel his
velvety soft, smooth skin, and breathe in his Aveeno baby wash heavenly smell.
I envision the handsome face of my 12 year old boy-man fighting to be brave after
he gets hurt and the sting and tightening in my throat as I know that a kiss on
his “boo boo” won’t make it all better any more. I see his kind eyes and gentle smile being extended to serve someone and show God's unconditional love in a tangible way. I will continue to be his greatest cheerleader and encourager but it will be for far grander things than learning how to take his first steps and how to say "ball," "mama," "dada," and that a cow says "moo". I imagine him proudly sitting
behind the wheel of a car the day he gets his license and watching his hand
wave goodbye as I slowly walk into the house, get down on my knees, and pray
fervently. I touch his baby hands…so squishy and soft. They fit in
the palm of my hand, but I can tell that he already has big, strong boy-hands.
I hold his hands tight and pray over them. I can’t imagine this
not-even-a-year-old baby of mine leaving for college or falling in love, so I
stop my dreaming there and fully return to the present. I cling to my boy
and let the picture the mirror captures burn a forever image into my mind.
Oh this Mama's heart aches as I know one day I won't be able to hold him
close and kiss his pillow-cheeks all day long. One day I'll look in those
mirrors and see a completely different image and I know that the
present image will always hold an incredibly dear place in my heart. Yes,
<a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/07/multitude-on-mondays-finding-joy-in.html">the joy is in the journey</a>, but these fleeting days are precious and I love
mothering my baby.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Two weeks ago we joined my family for the highlight of the summer: our beach trip. No, the fancy house we stayed in was not adorned with mirrored sliding closet doors, but that's okay because I have them at home. One day soon I'll teach Addison and Levi how to fly. Until then I'll continue holding my babies close and gazing into the images the mirrors reflect day after day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yet again, thank you, Mom and Dad, for a perfect week at the beach. Truly, it was a perfect week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Blessed beyond measure....</span></div>
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<span class="xc_pin" onclick="pin_this(event, 'http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http://www.aholyexperience.com/2003/06/buttons-to-use-and-share/&media=http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg&description=Buttons')"></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-32539166349401632622013-04-29T10:45:00.000-04:002013-05-31T07:37:32.319-04:00A Small Step to Raising Thankful KidsThankfulness doesn't come naturally to children, at least from what I've observed these past 3+ years of being a mother. "Thank yous" need prompting and some days I'm unsure how to reach her heart so she will view her every day blessings not as expectations, but as gifts from God. Did we have a dry, safe bed to sleep in last night? A gift. Did you get to play on the playground with a friend? Another gift. What about that yummy breakfast, lunch, <em>and</em> dinner you ate? Keep counting those gifts! The list goes on and on and on. <br />
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I read Ann Voskamp's post sharing insight on <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2012/03/how-to-help-raise-grateful-kids/">how to help raise grateful kids</a> and <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2012/06/1-step-towards-raising-happier-kids/">raising happier kids</a>. <br />
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I love this...<br />
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Because what will the math really matter if they are bitter?</strong></span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>If the house is immaculate — but my attitude a mess?</strong></span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>If they can count — but they don’t know how to count all things as joy?</strong></span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>If we get the lists done, but have lost happiness in Him?</strong></span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Phil. 4:8).</strong></span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong>Focusing on what is beautiful, good, true –isn’t this the truest education?</strong></span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So this past week, Addison and I began counting gifts. I started by weaving the term "gifts from God" and being thankful throughout our days. Then one night before bed I gave her a very special notebook and described to her that we are going to start writing down our gifts. She was very excited and had many ideas! I wrote down exactly what she said. This week we are starting to keep our book close by throughout the day so we can write down gifts as we recognize them. At the end of each day I write "Mommy is thankful for...." and I focus on a character trait that Addison displayed throughout the day. Was she extra kind to her brother? Did she share her toys? Did she listen first time when I said it was time to come inside? I'm hoping to show her that gifts are not always tangible items. And soon I'll start talking to her about the not-so-fun parts of life that are also gifts (ex. laundry!). </span></div>
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I'm looking forward to finding more ways to help her view her life through the lens of "I don't deserve this" and everything truly is a gift in hopes that she will BE the gift to others. </div>
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</span></span></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-54811591546670290252013-03-14T15:51:00.000-04:002013-03-14T15:52:16.848-04:00The 5 Things I Tell My Daughter Every DayAs we finish our last snuggles, last kisses, last before bed secrets, last tickles, and last "I love yous," I pray that my 3-year-old daughter will rest in these truths that I wove into the course of our day...<br />
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1. <a href="http://sarahmae.com/2013/03/maybe-your-two-year-old-just-needs-you/">You are a delight</a><br />
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2. God made you, God loves you, and Jesus wants to be your friend forever<br />
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3. Daddy and I love you...no matter what<br />
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4. God made you and you are stunningly beautiful<br />
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5. Your heart makes my heart smile<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-49771533665963789472013-02-25T21:24:00.000-05:002013-05-31T07:38:03.929-04:00Becoming a True Servant MotherAbout a month ago, I found myself the weariest I've ever been in my role as a mother. <br />
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Work has taken My Hero away more than ever (not at all by his choice!), my 3 year-old daughter was anchored to the summit of a mountain of defiance, independence, and disobedience, and my 7-month old woke up from each nap at the 30 minute mark and still hadn't slept through the night. Unlike his usual easy-going, content self, he was grumpy and whiny. In light of this, I found myself more than exhausted, joy-less, and in complete survival mode for a few days.<br />
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Thanks to my word for 2013 - <a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/12/word-for-2013.html">pray</a> - I have constantly been reminded that my posture needs to be kneeling at the feet of Jesus. Yes, I pray that Addison will embrace guidance and be cheerfully obedient. I pray that Levi would peacefully sleep at nap time and throughout the night. But my most important prayer, <em>God, please change me. Despite the ups and downs of these fleeting days, I want to radiate your JOY, PATIENCE, LOVE, and GRACE to my family.</em><br />
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God answered my prayers and I am changed. Because of Him, I have been given a new lens to view my role as a mother and I am FILLED with JOY. Despite a challenging day with a strong-willed toddler or a baby boy who has trouble sleeping, I am overflowing with JOY. <br />
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How? <br />
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Gift #770 (from my <a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2013/02/counting.html">last post</a>): 770. Serving my children all day with no expectations of anything in return (a
glimpse into the heart of Jesus, who "made himself nothing, taking the very
nature of a servant." -Philippians 2:7). The difference: this is not easy for me
and my selfish heart screams for recognition and acknowledgement. <br />
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As I've transitioned from one to two children, I've realized that my "me time" has drastically declined, especially since Levi isn't a consistent sleeper. I thrive on alone time, but the feeling of entitlement to a few moments to myself each day began to interfere with my heart behind serving my children. If they happened to sleep/have quiet time simultaneously, I didn't view those moments as a gift from God, but something that I deserved. And when I don't have that time (which is most days), I ended up feeling frustrated and the sooner it was bedtime the better.<br />
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Jesus was the perfect example of a servant. I wrestled as I thought about His example and how I could reflect that nature to my sweet babies. Mainly, I struggled with my own selfishness and pride - "<em>Not a moment goes by each day where I'm not serving, don't I deserve to be rewarded with some time to myself?"</em><br />
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No. I don't. Grace and mercy. God does not treat us as we deserve, and how thankful I am!!<br />
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My role as a mother is to serve, love, and guide my children. Mothers are called to make huge sacrifices as we raise our children. It isn't easy and it isn't glamorous, but saying "yes" to children means saying "no" to many earthly desires while at they same time we say "yes" to making an eternal impact. When I serve them, I serve them out of appreciation and love for Jesus who was the perfect example of a servant. I serve them, expecting nothing in return, because the love I have for them is selfless and pure. Even on those usual days where I am meeting one need to the next and I can hardly catch my breath, let alone sit down for a quiet moment alone, I am filled with joy. I love serving my spunky daughter and my charming son. What a gift it is to be their Mama! What a gift to be home all day with them. What a gift that I have the most influence in their lives right now. What a gift of peace I have about not sending Addison to preschool simply so I can have some time to myself. What a gift of renewed energy and creativity I've been given as I step up to be an even better mother. What a gift the present is as they will be grown much too soon and I'll long for these chaotic days again.<br />
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Not long after I finally let go of my selfish desires, My Hero was gone for a week on a "business" trip ("business" and "fire department" usually aren't used in the same sentence!), which was the longest we've been apart in the almost 6 years we've been married. Before, I would have had a very difficult time managing everything around the house and taking care of my little loves while keeping a positive attitude. Even though it was certainly a challenging week with two sick children, I can honestly say that I missed my husband not because of the extra help he gives, but because I missed being with him. I missed his presence. The joy I woke up with and went to bed feeling each night surprised me, but excited me as I was fully present with my children from before the sun went up until after it went down. Why did I cling to my own selfish desires for so long? I had been missing so much! Was I tired? Oh yes! Exhausted, but that's when Nehemiah 8:10 came to mind, "the joy of the Lord is [my] strength."<br />
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And do you know what? Two days in a row Levi took a 3 hour nap!!! Even better than that, I thanked God for that unexpected gift instead of having an attitude of "finally!" <br />
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And for a laugh...his cheesy, camera smile....<br />
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Now a few not-as-funny but still oh-so-sweet faces...<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-75019216347315471162013-02-10T14:21:00.001-05:002016-04-18T06:42:07.913-04:00Counting758. Thoughts from church...<em>Grace opens the heart to truth.</em> <br />
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759. Three years with our little girl...what a gift!<br />
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760. Weary, frustrated tears after an unusually challenging day alone with the children. A reminder that I cannot, but "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." -Philippians 4:13<br />
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761. 60 degrees, sunny, and an entire day with my little family<br />
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762. His sparkly, blue eyes that twinkle even on the rainiest days<br />
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763. My daughter's example of complete forgiveness after she was wronged<br />
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764. My husband's strength perfectly entwined with his gentleness<br />
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765. Books<br />
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766. My baby boy <em>still</em> needing his Mama throughout the night - must be God's way of giving me more opportunities to <a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/12/word-for-2013.html">exercise my word for 2013</a> all day<em> and</em> night. <br />
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767. Words of <a href="http://prayer%20is%20more%20important%20than%20breathing%20because%20souls%20are%20more%20important%20than%20life/">Ann Voskamp</a>- <em>Prayer is more important than breathing because souls are more important than life.</em><br />
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768. The tension between valuing the earthly over the eternal - I am slowly allowing God to erase my desire for the things the world places as important/essential. All I need is Him and to be able to close my eyes at night knowing my day made an eternal difference.<br />
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769. Letting go of feeling like I <em>deserve </em>quiet, alone time at some point each day. I don't deserve anything. <br />
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770. Serving my children all day with no expectations of anything in return (a glimpse into the heart of Jesus, who "made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant." -Philippians 2:7) The difference: this is not easy for me and my selfish heart screams for recognition and acknowledgement. <br />
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771. The joy of giving my copy of <em>One Thousand Gifts</em> to a new friend after she said, "You are the third person who has recommended that book to me!" Excited to hear how God uses it to change her life!<br />
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772. A very special treat - <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/recipes/new-recipes/ultimate-chocolate-chip-cookie-n-oreo-fudge-brownie-bar.html">Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie n' Oreo Fudge Brownie Bar</a><br />
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773. The love my two little loves share<br />
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</span></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-82909279613536176162013-01-26T07:10:00.000-05:002013-01-26T07:10:18.714-05:00Bible Verses for ToddlersIt has been a joy to teach Addison Scripture from a very young age. I love how conversations and applications regarding memorized Bible verses flows throughout each day. God's word is brought to life! <br />
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Here is a short list of verses that are appropriate for toddlers (I will add to it as we learn more!)...<br />
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Matthew 22:37 - "Love the Lord...with all your heart."<br />
1 John 4:8 - "God is love."<br />
Ephesians 6:1 - "Children obey your parents."<br />
Proverbs 17:17 - "A friend loves at all times."<br />
Psalm 19:1 - "The heavens declare the glory of God."<br />
Psalm 56:3 - "When I am afraid, I will trust in you."<br />
Genesis 1:1 - "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."<br />
Ephesians 4:32 - "Be kind and loving to each other."<br />
1 Thessalonians 2:13 - "Give thanks to God."<br />
Psalm 85:8 - "I will listen to what God says."<br />
Romans 8:39 - "Nothing can separate us from God's love."<br />
Philippians 4:19 - "My God will meet all your needs."<br />
Judges 6:12 - "The Lord is with you."<br />
1 Thessalonians 5:17 - "Pray without ceasing [stopping]."<br />
Acts 16:31 - "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved."<br />
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I want these verses to be written on her heart so they are never forgotten. The Bible is living, active, and a double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). Knowing these truths will be invaluable as she grows up. Here's a simple activity we have been doing to promote long-term memory of these verses (this is after we've spent a few days memorizing the verse)- I have written each verse on a separate index card. Each night she picks an index card. I read it and she repeats the verse. We practice several times. Once she tells me the verse by herself, she chooses a small star sticker and places it on the index card. She <em>loves</em> being able to place a sticker on the card and I <em>love</em> the excitement she has about learning her verses (even if stickers are involved!). :) We talk about the verse throughout the next day and make real-life applications. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-12911372472353646702013-01-20T22:44:00.000-05:002016-05-02T22:55:38.687-04:00Three Years Old: A Ladybug Picnic PartyThis is the first year that Miss A was old enough to choose the theme of her birthday party. Her choice...A Ladybug Picnic! We brought in our little picnic tables in from outside and had a great indoor picnic in January! <br />
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Here are a few pictures of her special day. THREE years old! </div>
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I found the iron-on ladybug at Hobby Lobby. Her talented Aunt made the adorable ladybug tutu and her boots are from Carters.</div>
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These baskets came from the Dollar Tree. Very cute and they made a great place to put the party favors!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6940396965395404828.post-53087139798467442132012-12-30T11:50:00.000-05:002013-01-01T19:57:18.044-05:00Word for 2013Here we are, just two days away from closing 2012's door and stepping through the threshold to 2013. <br />
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For the past few years I have chosen a word to focus on throughout the year...<br />
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2011 - be still (<a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2011/06/be-still.html">here)</a><br />
2012 - intentional (<a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/02/2012-intentional.html">here</a> and <a href="http://1000plusgifts.blogspot.com/2012/11/intentional-in-unexpected.html">here)</a><br />
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and for 2013.....<span style="font-size: x-large;">PRAY</span>.<br />
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This year I am certain that God has a lot to teach me about how to pray continually, the purpose of prayer, and the importance of interceding on behalf of others. I want to be intimately connected to the heart of God and I know that prayer is an essential ingredient. I have been anticipating beginning this journey for awhile and I am very excited, to say the least, for 2013! <br />
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To begin, I have these books on my bookshelf waiting to be read...<br />
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<em>Too Busy Not to Pray </em>by Bill Hybels<br />
<em>Prayer</em> by Philip Yancey<br />
<em>Intercessory Prayer </em>by Dutch Sheets<br />
<i>A Passion for Prayer</i> by Vonette Bright<br />
<i>The Power of a Praying Wife</i> by Stormie Omartian<br />
<i>The Power of a Praying Parent by </i>Stormie Omartian<br />
<em>Praying God's Word </em>by Beth Moore<br />
<em>The Circle Maker</em> by Mark Batterson<br />
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I have also installed the "Prayer Notebook - Christian Prayer Journal" app on my phone. This will be a great reminder to pray for people's specific needs at certain times each day. <br />
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And finally, I love what Andy Stanley says,<br />
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<em>When you pray...</em><br />
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<em>-declare God's greatness</em><br />
<em>-surrender your will</em><br />
<em>-acknowledge your dependence for provision, pardon, and protection</em><br />
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<em>----------------------------------------------------------------------</em><br />
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*Do you have a favorite book on prayer that you could recommend?<br />
*Any other insights you have on prayer?<br />
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Happy New Year!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0