This is a wonderful time of year, but it is an Oh-SO-busy time as well. There are many things I'd like to update you on at length, but my bed is calling me. This will be brief. :)
When Matt and I were first married, I began a routine of asking him (right before bed as we laid in the dark) for one good thing from the day. He would hear me ask, "One good thing?" Following his response, I'd offer my own.
For me it was an exercise in gratitude; an opportunity to share with one another something good. That one thing didn't have to be big, just any old thing that he or I considered good. A little success. A little encouragement. A simple win. A pleasant moment.
So, tonight I'll give you one good thing from my day right before I drift off to sleep: Today, I caught up on ironing Matt's shirts.
An ordinary task for sure, a task I particularly dislike, one that's remained incomplete too long, but it's my one good thing today because I have a husband whose shirts need ironing. God shows me His blessings even in the mundane and ordinary things of everyday life.
Monday, December 17, 2012
Sunday, December 16, 2012
This Boy
Have I told you about this boy yet?
Two of Matt's and my best friends, Chris and Dawn, have struggled with fertility issues over the years. Yet, God saw fit to give them this little blessing:
And later, this one:
As they waited on this little fella, they prayed for him by name. They prayed that God would bless them with a child, a son, who would be named Boaz.
You may be able to imagine how much our friends delight in their children. They waited for a long time, cried, prayed, waited, hurt deep in their hearts over wanting a child and desiring God's blessing of a special gift. Then God moved. Once and then again. What joy these little ones bring to their parents' hearts. Now, they are praying for another of God's gifts and they are waiting.
In the meantime, I wonder if they had any idea how much this little guy would bring joy to my husband's heart. After a long hard day, especially the particularly grueling ones, Matt peruses his Facebook wall and suddenly I hear him laugh. There are other causes for his laughter at times, but most often, he's seen a new Boaz picture and it brings him joy.
Recently, Dawn needed me. She had to be in this part of the country a couple of days for school and was bringing Boaz. Matt was completely supportive of me taking the day trip to help out (as he always is when it comes to being there for friends--I love that man!), so off I went for a visit with my friend and her boy and kept Boaz when she was presenting the defense of her dissertation. These are some of the sweet pics of me with our little buddy:
I took them thinking Matt would like a picture of two of his favorite people together. :) After sending him one, I received little response. When I arrived home, he asked if I had any pics of our little nugglar. In retrospect, I realized I was impeding Boaz's charm by not taking shots of him in his natural element. This is a sample of some of Matt's favorite Boaz moments:
Two of Matt's and my best friends, Chris and Dawn, have struggled with fertility issues over the years. Yet, God saw fit to give them this little blessing:
And later, this one:
As they waited on this little fella, they prayed for him by name. They prayed that God would bless them with a child, a son, who would be named Boaz.
You may be able to imagine how much our friends delight in their children. They waited for a long time, cried, prayed, waited, hurt deep in their hearts over wanting a child and desiring God's blessing of a special gift. Then God moved. Once and then again. What joy these little ones bring to their parents' hearts. Now, they are praying for another of God's gifts and they are waiting.
In the meantime, I wonder if they had any idea how much this little guy would bring joy to my husband's heart. After a long hard day, especially the particularly grueling ones, Matt peruses his Facebook wall and suddenly I hear him laugh. There are other causes for his laughter at times, but most often, he's seen a new Boaz picture and it brings him joy.
Recently, Dawn needed me. She had to be in this part of the country a couple of days for school and was bringing Boaz. Matt was completely supportive of me taking the day trip to help out (as he always is when it comes to being there for friends--I love that man!), so off I went for a visit with my friend and her boy and kept Boaz when she was presenting the defense of her dissertation. These are some of the sweet pics of me with our little buddy:
I took them thinking Matt would like a picture of two of his favorite people together. :) After sending him one, I received little response. When I arrived home, he asked if I had any pics of our little nugglar. In retrospect, I realized I was impeding Boaz's charm by not taking shots of him in his natural element. This is a sample of some of Matt's favorite Boaz moments:
It all began when B started smoking green beans...
And then moved on to asparagus...
The pickle is one of the all time faves...the many faces of Boaz.
The boy caught red handed sneaking his sister's nuggets...Matt dubbed him the nugglar :)
Rubber ducky, you're the one...that's not food.
Lest you think all his faves are food pics...he likes the gut too.
The nugglar strikes again: Matt says he needs a mask and utility belt for all his dipping sauces.
It's been said for years the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Apparently, Boaz makes his way to Matt's heart through his own stomach.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
New Orleans Style
Matt and I have been to New Orleans once since we've been married. What have I learned Matt likes most about NOLA? The food. Can you blame him?
Shrimp Po' boy with spicy Remoulade sauce
When I found a recipe in one of my cooking magazines, I couldn't resist making Matt a shrimp po' boy. He loved it!
Now, wish me luck as I search for a good jambalaya and try that out. Matt loves Jambalaya.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Wedding Bells
One of my favorite things is seeing God do some amazing things in a friend's life. It may not seem all that spectacular when someone gets married since most people marry sometime or another. What is amazing to me is how perfectly God weaves together two lives into one.
Here is my friend Katrina on her wedding day:
It was such a blessing to be there on her big day, to watch her marry another of Matt's and my friends, Nick.
The way God led them together, the way He crafted the story along the way and the way they compliment one another so well, these gave testimony to the plan God had all along that they become one. That He wants them to love and serve one another as they love and serve Him individually and together. What a gift! What a blessing!
Congratulations, my friend! Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your celebration.
Here is my friend Katrina on her wedding day:
It was such a blessing to be there on her big day, to watch her marry another of Matt's and my friends, Nick.
The way God led them together, the way He crafted the story along the way and the way they compliment one another so well, these gave testimony to the plan God had all along that they become one. That He wants them to love and serve one another as they love and serve Him individually and together. What a gift! What a blessing!
Congratulations, my friend! Thank you for inviting me to be a part of your celebration.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Go CATS
Matt graduated from Kansas State and has remained a big fan of the Wildcats. When we enter college football season, I know how we'll be spending A LOT of Saturdays.
Growing up, I had a bad taste in my mouth for football because of how we spent most Thanksgivings. We were at my grandmother's house with all the men watching game after game after game. As a young girl, there was nothing more boring or frustrating (since I didn't understand the game and heard a lot of yelling at the t.v.) than football. It was then that I decided I hated the game.
Once and I mean one time in college, I went with my sister and her husband to a football game. I don't really know why I agreed to go, but I was totally surprised by how much I was interested in it. Still, I wasn't convinced.
This season, between taking in a Ravens game live and watching K-State play some great football, I've decided I actually like the game! hahaha Who knew?!?!
If you don't follow college football, K-State was one of the undefeated teams this season almost to the last game. After about 7 wins, Matt and I were due to see a game in person. I couldn't wait!
We took a road trip to West Virginia, the only game played in our neck of the woods, and hoped for the best.
Here are some pics taken on the road:
I even thought I'd surprise Matt with a little fanware:
We had an incredible time! The Cats played some great football and I loved cheering them on. Go CATS!
Growing up, I had a bad taste in my mouth for football because of how we spent most Thanksgivings. We were at my grandmother's house with all the men watching game after game after game. As a young girl, there was nothing more boring or frustrating (since I didn't understand the game and heard a lot of yelling at the t.v.) than football. It was then that I decided I hated the game.
Once and I mean one time in college, I went with my sister and her husband to a football game. I don't really know why I agreed to go, but I was totally surprised by how much I was interested in it. Still, I wasn't convinced.
This season, between taking in a Ravens game live and watching K-State play some great football, I've decided I actually like the game! hahaha Who knew?!?!
If you don't follow college football, K-State was one of the undefeated teams this season almost to the last game. After about 7 wins, Matt and I were due to see a game in person. I couldn't wait!
We took a road trip to West Virginia, the only game played in our neck of the woods, and hoped for the best.
Here are some pics taken on the road:
I even thought I'd surprise Matt with a little fanware:
It's a K-State hat I had made. He loved it! And so did several women at the game :)
We had an incredible time! The Cats played some great football and I loved cheering them on. Go CATS!
At the start of the game, everyone was on the field.
We enjoyed sitting in the K-State Section. I was surprised to see so many fans at the game.
Scoreboard at the end of the game.
The CATS won!
Monday, December 10, 2012
Fullness of Life
Have you ever looked back at what your life used to be and felt so very thankful you are not now where you once were? It surprises me sometimes when I feel that deep feeling of relief that God chose to move me from where I was, as a single person in full-time ministry, to being a wife and discipler.
When I look back, I remember those days and what they were like, the people I worked with, the atmosphere I was in, the demands and when I imagine how this year could be another of that same old thing, I feel relief. Deep relief.
It doesn't matter that when I was there it was where I was supposed to be. It doesn't matter that God used me to bless others and blessed me in the midst of it. It doesn't matter that I am forever changed, much better for the experiences I had there. It is no longer where I am supposed to be and as I reflect upon it, I feel it deep in my soul.
It amazes me sometimes at how God can so completely change our hearts. A place I loved. A place I never wanted to leave. A ministry I always wanted to be a part of and saw as a distinct part of my future. The life I lived then that was so full, now holds nothing for me. It is past and I am deeply grateful.
With a new path before me, life is still full. I am where I'm supposed to be and this is all I want. God is the One who makes this possible. Fullness of life. Even in the changing of seasons. God is so good in the way He blesses us.
When I look back, I remember those days and what they were like, the people I worked with, the atmosphere I was in, the demands and when I imagine how this year could be another of that same old thing, I feel relief. Deep relief.
It doesn't matter that when I was there it was where I was supposed to be. It doesn't matter that God used me to bless others and blessed me in the midst of it. It doesn't matter that I am forever changed, much better for the experiences I had there. It is no longer where I am supposed to be and as I reflect upon it, I feel it deep in my soul.
It amazes me sometimes at how God can so completely change our hearts. A place I loved. A place I never wanted to leave. A ministry I always wanted to be a part of and saw as a distinct part of my future. The life I lived then that was so full, now holds nothing for me. It is past and I am deeply grateful.
With a new path before me, life is still full. I am where I'm supposed to be and this is all I want. God is the One who makes this possible. Fullness of life. Even in the changing of seasons. God is so good in the way He blesses us.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Makeover Mania
Our guest bedroom:
I must admit I'm quite pleased with how this turned out. The color is perfect. Fortunately, it was finished just in time for our first overnight guests: Uncle Paul and Aunt Molly.
I must admit I'm quite pleased with how this turned out. The color is perfect. Fortunately, it was finished just in time for our first overnight guests: Uncle Paul and Aunt Molly.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Treasure Trove
A few months ago, a high school classmate and Facebook friend, mentioned a personal struggle of hers. She and her husband have been married and trying for a baby for several years. Believing it would happen easily, since it does for many women, she began preparing for that little one they hoped to bring into their family and home. Among other things, she had accumulated a stockpile of diapers.
Years later, after being thwarted in attempts to have a child by birth and after three years of waiting for a child by adoption to no avail, she dragged herself into her spare bedroom and pulled out of the closet every package of diapers she'd held onto all of those years. She shed many tears as she pulled out each one to give to a woman in need. She believed it was the right thing to do, that God was leading her to do it, but she didn't want to. She wanted to use those diapers for her baby, for hers and her husband's.
I was and am so proud of her for taking that step in faith. It is so hard to let go of something we want so desperately. Letting go of those diapers was a physical representation of letting go a little in her heart. That act of letting go, even in a small measure, honors God tremendously.
When Matt and I learned we were expecting our baby, I went headlong into baby planning mode. Gathering books to read not just on parenting, but on pregnancy and delivery. Gathering information from a couple of close friends and my sister so I'd know what to register for when the time came. Researching children's books to see which ones have the best messages and are of the most interest to young children. Looking for which children's Bible we'd use with our little ones. And yes, accumulating diapers when the good sales hit stores.
When we lost our baby, one of the things that weighed heavily on me emotionally was whether or not to keep the diapers and few clothes I'd bought. My first impulse was to return it all before it was too late and we lost the money we invested in it. It was the practical, responsible thing to do, but I didn't want to.
It became clear that I didn't need to decide. I needed Matt as the leader of our family to decide this for me. Unfortunately, I didn't have the courage to ask him for a few days. He is very practical and reasonable. Since I thought the practical and reasonable thing to do was to return it all, I thought he'd tell me to take it all back. I wasn't emotionally ready to hear that.
When I finally thought I could handle his decision and act on it immediately, I asked him what to do. Let me just say, I crumpled in tears when Matt said, "Keep it all. We'll need it." A few simple words. They were so comforting to my soul. My faith was waning, but his held strong.
God is the One who will choose. He is the giver of life. We may or may not find our arms full one day. That is something I'm daily giving over to God. I'm letting go in my heart, little step by little step.
If any of you wonder, Matt loves me well. He is such a blessing to me and though I already knew it, walking this road with him has been so good for my heart.
Here's a glimpse of our little treasure trove:
May God one day use it for His glory, for either our child or another.
Years later, after being thwarted in attempts to have a child by birth and after three years of waiting for a child by adoption to no avail, she dragged herself into her spare bedroom and pulled out of the closet every package of diapers she'd held onto all of those years. She shed many tears as she pulled out each one to give to a woman in need. She believed it was the right thing to do, that God was leading her to do it, but she didn't want to. She wanted to use those diapers for her baby, for hers and her husband's.
I was and am so proud of her for taking that step in faith. It is so hard to let go of something we want so desperately. Letting go of those diapers was a physical representation of letting go a little in her heart. That act of letting go, even in a small measure, honors God tremendously.
When Matt and I learned we were expecting our baby, I went headlong into baby planning mode. Gathering books to read not just on parenting, but on pregnancy and delivery. Gathering information from a couple of close friends and my sister so I'd know what to register for when the time came. Researching children's books to see which ones have the best messages and are of the most interest to young children. Looking for which children's Bible we'd use with our little ones. And yes, accumulating diapers when the good sales hit stores.
When we lost our baby, one of the things that weighed heavily on me emotionally was whether or not to keep the diapers and few clothes I'd bought. My first impulse was to return it all before it was too late and we lost the money we invested in it. It was the practical, responsible thing to do, but I didn't want to.
It became clear that I didn't need to decide. I needed Matt as the leader of our family to decide this for me. Unfortunately, I didn't have the courage to ask him for a few days. He is very practical and reasonable. Since I thought the practical and reasonable thing to do was to return it all, I thought he'd tell me to take it all back. I wasn't emotionally ready to hear that.
When I finally thought I could handle his decision and act on it immediately, I asked him what to do. Let me just say, I crumpled in tears when Matt said, "Keep it all. We'll need it." A few simple words. They were so comforting to my soul. My faith was waning, but his held strong.
God is the One who will choose. He is the giver of life. We may or may not find our arms full one day. That is something I'm daily giving over to God. I'm letting go in my heart, little step by little step.
If any of you wonder, Matt loves me well. He is such a blessing to me and though I already knew it, walking this road with him has been so good for my heart.
Here's a glimpse of our little treasure trove:
May God one day use it for His glory, for either our child or another.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Season Opener
A vendor Matt works with offered him tickets for a Ravens game this season. He managed to get 4 tickets to the season opener and we invited our friends Jordan and Hannah. Jordan is a big fan of NFL football.
We were eager for a great night out. It was perfect weather for a game and we were all in great spirits as it was a first for most of us. We hadn't been to a Ravens game since we moved here.
To be honest, I don't usually like public venues. The crowds, the filth of people throwing food and trash haphazardly on the ground, the smoking, drinking, crude language, rudeness and the unpredictable nature of it all is totally unappealing to me. I had no idea what to expect, but I liked the company I was with so I was up for it.
The season opener was a good first game for us. The stadium was clean. No one around us smoked; maybe it's a non-smoking arena because it seems everyone in Baltimore smokes. We were in a section where the fans were mostly season ticket holders. They were nice and welcoming (especially the doctor who sat next to me). They also were pretty tame when it came to the drinking, I didn't hear any language or run into any rude people. What. A. Relief.
We had great seats and the season opener brought a lot of extras. At the beginning of the game, the air force did a fly over. We saw Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps run out on the field with the Ravens. Other Baltimore Olympians walked out at the half with their medals. There was a lot of fanfare and it was fun to take it all in.
When the game began, the Ravens were ready. They played a great game of football! We were not bored through any part of it. They made some incredible plays throughout the game and we had plenty to cheer about. Eventually, I even got a glimpse of Michael Oher. If you're familiar with the movie, The Blind Side, then you know who I'm talking about. He plays for the Baltimore Ravens.
When all was said and done, the Ravens won!!!
It was a great night. A great night of football. A great night with friends. A great night with Matt.
Me and football. Who knew?!
We were eager for a great night out. It was perfect weather for a game and we were all in great spirits as it was a first for most of us. We hadn't been to a Ravens game since we moved here.
To be honest, I don't usually like public venues. The crowds, the filth of people throwing food and trash haphazardly on the ground, the smoking, drinking, crude language, rudeness and the unpredictable nature of it all is totally unappealing to me. I had no idea what to expect, but I liked the company I was with so I was up for it.
As you can see, the stadium was packed. It was a great crowd.
The season opener was a good first game for us. The stadium was clean. No one around us smoked; maybe it's a non-smoking arena because it seems everyone in Baltimore smokes. We were in a section where the fans were mostly season ticket holders. They were nice and welcoming (especially the doctor who sat next to me). They also were pretty tame when it came to the drinking, I didn't hear any language or run into any rude people. What. A. Relief.
We had great seats and the season opener brought a lot of extras. At the beginning of the game, the air force did a fly over. We saw Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps run out on the field with the Ravens. Other Baltimore Olympians walked out at the half with their medals. There was a lot of fanfare and it was fun to take it all in.
When the game began, the Ravens were ready. They played a great game of football! We were not bored through any part of it. They made some incredible plays throughout the game and we had plenty to cheer about. Eventually, I even got a glimpse of Michael Oher. If you're familiar with the movie, The Blind Side, then you know who I'm talking about. He plays for the Baltimore Ravens.
Oher is #74
It was a great night. A great night of football. A great night with friends. A great night with Matt.
Me and football. Who knew?!
Thursday, December 6, 2012
God With Us
On September 10, Matt and I found out we were expecting. On October 5, the doctor confirmed we'd lost our baby. He died at exactly 6 fetal weeks. As a dear friend, who knows from experience, said, "God doesn't promise the journey will be without pain, but He does promise to be there with us through it."
In retrospect, we see God's fingerprints all over our situation. The pregnancy was ectopic, but because it was a very rare kind where the baby was in the abdomen, I didn't experience any pain; I didn't have to have surgery; I didn't lose any reproductive capability for the future. My body is recovering much more quickly than if I had any other kind of miscarriage.
Another blessing is the way God answered one of my prayers. You see, when I was 20 years old, my sister became pregnant with her first child. I was SO excited that I went to the mall immediately to buy the first baby present to give her.
As I walked the isle looking at the girl clothes on the right and the boy clothes on the left, I thought to the Lord, "I wish You'd tell me whether she's going to have a boy or a girl so I could know what clothes to buy." Immediately after, the thought, "It's a boy." came to my mind and a certainty was in my heart that God had indeed answered. It was weeks before we'd find out, but indeed she was carrying and later had a boy.
Remembering that, I asked God night after night to tell me what Matt and I would be having. I didn't want to wait for 20 weeks and I knew who already knew. I went to the source and asked.
I expected Him to reveal the answer in the same distinct way He'd answered before. When He didn't, I thought to Him one night, "Well, I guess You're not going to tell me, so I guess I'll stop asking. For whatever reason, I guess you don't want to tell me." I went to sleep and shortly thereafter (I don't remember which night), I had a dream of a little boy.
He was about two years old and as cute and happy as could be. I remember him looking me in the eyes and smiling at me sweetly before hopping down to play. Even though I couldn't keep my eyes off of him, enjoying every minute of it, I stood almost frozen, I was so confused. Some of my family members were there with us, but not paying attention to either of us. As I looked at this little boy, I remember thinking with a puzzled look on my face, "I know he's a part of our family, but why don't I know him?" When I woke up I had a vivid memory of the dream, but didn't think too much of the details.
I remember walking down the stairs the next day and the day after thinking to myself, "Well, at least I know we'll be having a boy. Now, I just wonder if we'll have a girl too. Probably not or I would have dreamed of her too, but I hope so." You see, I'd been praying for twins, specifically a boy and a girl, by name.
It was only about three or so days after that dream that we lost our baby. For a while, the significance of the dream didn't settle in on me, but now I know. The dream was God's gentle way of telling me the sex of the baby we'd never have a chance to raise. He is happy with the Lord; He is a part of our family, even though I don't know him.
Now, I only wish I was a talented artist so I could draw the image of his face, because I remember it as if it was etched on my mind. It's funny because he didn't look distinctly like Matt or me. As I've imagined what our children will look like, I've pictured a little Matt or a little Kim and this little boy looked nothing like I had been picturing. He did look a little like my Dad's Dad when he was a little boy, actually a lot like him as I strain to remember one picture I've seen a time or two in my adult life.
For days after I reflected on the dream, I had a persistent desire to name our son. When I shared with one of my dear friends my desire to name him, she told me, "You should name him. I believe Jesus has already named him the name you will choose." I can't tell you how refreshing it is to my soul to have godly friends who know the heart of God.
Throughout Scripture it is clear a great deal of significance is given to a name. That's why names have always been so important to me. After talking with Matt about it, we decided to name our son.
I understand if you are skeptical about all of this, but speaking through dreams is one of God's ways of communicating with His children. I don't believe He speaks that way to give us any new revelations as He did in times past, before His word was completed. He speaks that way now for other reasons, usually in my experience out of His loving-kindness. Just remember that He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). If He spoke through dreams then (and He did), then He still does. One day, we will know our son, in heaven.
In retrospect, we see God's fingerprints all over our situation. The pregnancy was ectopic, but because it was a very rare kind where the baby was in the abdomen, I didn't experience any pain; I didn't have to have surgery; I didn't lose any reproductive capability for the future. My body is recovering much more quickly than if I had any other kind of miscarriage.
Another blessing is the way God answered one of my prayers. You see, when I was 20 years old, my sister became pregnant with her first child. I was SO excited that I went to the mall immediately to buy the first baby present to give her.
As I walked the isle looking at the girl clothes on the right and the boy clothes on the left, I thought to the Lord, "I wish You'd tell me whether she's going to have a boy or a girl so I could know what clothes to buy." Immediately after, the thought, "It's a boy." came to my mind and a certainty was in my heart that God had indeed answered. It was weeks before we'd find out, but indeed she was carrying and later had a boy.
Remembering that, I asked God night after night to tell me what Matt and I would be having. I didn't want to wait for 20 weeks and I knew who already knew. I went to the source and asked.
I expected Him to reveal the answer in the same distinct way He'd answered before. When He didn't, I thought to Him one night, "Well, I guess You're not going to tell me, so I guess I'll stop asking. For whatever reason, I guess you don't want to tell me." I went to sleep and shortly thereafter (I don't remember which night), I had a dream of a little boy.
He was about two years old and as cute and happy as could be. I remember him looking me in the eyes and smiling at me sweetly before hopping down to play. Even though I couldn't keep my eyes off of him, enjoying every minute of it, I stood almost frozen, I was so confused. Some of my family members were there with us, but not paying attention to either of us. As I looked at this little boy, I remember thinking with a puzzled look on my face, "I know he's a part of our family, but why don't I know him?" When I woke up I had a vivid memory of the dream, but didn't think too much of the details.
I remember walking down the stairs the next day and the day after thinking to myself, "Well, at least I know we'll be having a boy. Now, I just wonder if we'll have a girl too. Probably not or I would have dreamed of her too, but I hope so." You see, I'd been praying for twins, specifically a boy and a girl, by name.
It was only about three or so days after that dream that we lost our baby. For a while, the significance of the dream didn't settle in on me, but now I know. The dream was God's gentle way of telling me the sex of the baby we'd never have a chance to raise. He is happy with the Lord; He is a part of our family, even though I don't know him.
Now, I only wish I was a talented artist so I could draw the image of his face, because I remember it as if it was etched on my mind. It's funny because he didn't look distinctly like Matt or me. As I've imagined what our children will look like, I've pictured a little Matt or a little Kim and this little boy looked nothing like I had been picturing. He did look a little like my Dad's Dad when he was a little boy, actually a lot like him as I strain to remember one picture I've seen a time or two in my adult life.
For days after I reflected on the dream, I had a persistent desire to name our son. When I shared with one of my dear friends my desire to name him, she told me, "You should name him. I believe Jesus has already named him the name you will choose." I can't tell you how refreshing it is to my soul to have godly friends who know the heart of God.
Throughout Scripture it is clear a great deal of significance is given to a name. That's why names have always been so important to me. After talking with Matt about it, we decided to name our son.
I understand if you are skeptical about all of this, but speaking through dreams is one of God's ways of communicating with His children. I don't believe He speaks that way to give us any new revelations as He did in times past, before His word was completed. He speaks that way now for other reasons, usually in my experience out of His loving-kindness. Just remember that He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). If He spoke through dreams then (and He did), then He still does. One day, we will know our son, in heaven.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Sneak Peek
Here is a sneak peek into our bedroom:
Pillows when we go to bed each night
Pillows when we wake up every morning
Guess which side is mine.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Novelty
One of my favorite hang outs with my friend Jenny is Shogun in Oakland. She introduced me to sushi and I have enjoyed eating it there ever since. Don't be too shocked by learning of me branching out a bit. I only eat the cooked sushi, so I don't think it's quite so legit. As I've tried it in other places, I haven't really enjoyed it enough to go again.
On a recent visit, Jenny's time was short as she was working much more than usual. We barely squeezed in enough time to catch up at her house and get a somewhat quick lunch. Well, it was quick for us. :)
It was neat to hear of the latest big thing going on in her life and fun to learn all of the details to be had. I'm pretty good at living vicariously through my friends as they share of new and exciting days ahead in life. Really, I say that facetiously. In actuality, I'm good at being excited with my friends for what God has in store for them.
God works in our lives so differently, guiding us along His path for us as individuals, taking into account our gifts and calling, leading each of us to the place He has for us to give us the greatest blessings. It is so fun to see His story unfold in the lives of my friends.
Outside Shogun
On a recent visit, Jenny's time was short as she was working much more than usual. We barely squeezed in enough time to catch up at her house and get a somewhat quick lunch. Well, it was quick for us. :)
It was neat to hear of the latest big thing going on in her life and fun to learn all of the details to be had. I'm pretty good at living vicariously through my friends as they share of new and exciting days ahead in life. Really, I say that facetiously. In actuality, I'm good at being excited with my friends for what God has in store for them.
God works in our lives so differently, guiding us along His path for us as individuals, taking into account our gifts and calling, leading each of us to the place He has for us to give us the greatest blessings. It is so fun to see His story unfold in the lives of my friends.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Special Day
Trying on his tux for my wedding :)
One of my all-time favorite pics of Mom and Dad
This is another fave.
Though Tracey's not the huggy type, Dad is often found near my Sis getting in time with her.
Even as a teen, J is close to his grandad. No pun intended.
A is known to lock her arms around Mamaw and Grandad in this fashion to keep them from leaving after a visit. The other grands join in to keep them from going.
Though Dad is a little distracted for the photo op, M was getting some focused one-on-one time with him before the shot. (You can see where my Dad gets it...from his Dad.)
This is another favorite shot. S with his Grandad.
Z is the youngest in the family so far, but we hope to add to our number someday. :)
Somewhere along the way, it occurred to me that I want my life to be defined in the minds of others by how I've loved. It was one of the biggest compliments Matt could have given me before we were engaged when he said, "I've never known anyone who loves the way you do." I come by it honestly.
My Dad has loved us well and is a model of how I want to be with the ones I love. I want to follow in his footsteps even as he's followed in his Dad's.
My Dad has loved us well. He's made a consistent effort over the years to spend time with each of us; he's gotten to know each one of us as individuals; he's pointed us to the Lord and let us know how important He is in his life and should be in ours; and he's been there, always a part of our lives.
Thank you, Dad, for loving us well. I love you!
Happy Birthday!!
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