My God Sized Dream: I Will Follow

Photo credit: mikoosij

It was one of the last warm summer Sundays before the leaves began to fall and the days became cooler.  I was a brand new college student, free to make my own decisions and choose my own path.  But there were so many choices and I was overwhelmed by it all.

I had become a Christian the summer after everything changed.  It was the year I stepped out of childhood and began to question it all.  Just two months earlier, our circle of friends had said goodbye forever to one of our own.  A car accident took both her life and our innocence. 

It was also the year our family doctor looked at my mom with concern written in his eyes and told her to seek a specialist.  It was just a hunch, but the cardiologist confirmed it.  We waited, prescriptions and restrictions in hand, for my body to grow enough that surgery would be most effective.

Physically I grew weaker...and spiritually I grew weaker.  I stepped into the school counselor's office more often than I can count, but still the doubts and questions crowded my thoughts.  None of it - the pain, the heart ache, the loss, the suffering - made sense.

And then, through the eyes of a fictional character, I began to see what I was missing.  My heart spoke what my soul cried that day: I needed Jesus.

Five years later, my thoughts were crowded with more doubts and questions.  I wanted to understand, to know Him more.  I would open the pages of His words day after day, but there was still so much I needed to learn.

My soul was hungry for more Truth, but where could I find it?  I opened up the yellow pages to a heading that read "Churches" and my head began to spin at the multitude of choices.  And how was one denomination different than the next?

A friend said "Baptist", but still there were so many to choose from.  Without a car of my own, I knew I'd be walking, so I picked the one I thought was closest.  I attended that church service the week before, but I wasn't quite home yet.  The sweet lady who offered me a ride back to campus suggested another church, much closer to campus with a ministry for college students.

So, that morning, dressed for church, bible in one hand and directions in the other, I began to walk.  Confused by roads still unfamiliar to me and feeling so very alone, I began to pray.

Where am I going?  I don't even understand these directions and I have no idea where I am.

I know where you are, dear one.  Just follow me.

But what am I doing?  This is silly.  I don't know anyone and I have no idea what a Baptist church even is. 

I know what you're doing, dear one.  Just follow me.

I trust you, Lord.  But I'm scared.  I don't do things like this.  I'm the one who plays it safe and doesn't take risks.

I know you and I know your fears, dear one.  Just follow me.

And so, I followed.

God blessed my obedience that day with a Pastor who boldly preaches truth Sunday after Sunday, friends who challenge and encourage me in my walk with Him, and a church family who has loved and cared for me through many storms. 

And still I follow.

Fingers hovering over the keyboard, cursor blinking, I begin to type.  Words flow out of my heart, words He has placed there of a story He has written for me.

I don't know what I'm doing and it terrifies me.  But He knows.

And so, I will follow. 

 

Jesus Messiah

Photo credit: Mr. Greenjeans

Is it just me...or are Sunday mornings are always the hardest?  The devil is working double time trying to keep me away from His words and His truth.  He wants to make me stumble, lives to make me fall.  But, by His power, I will not let the devil have a foothold.  I grumble and with my mouth I speak venomous words...but then I crumble...at His feet, weeping and repenting and seeking His peace that surpasses understanding.

Then, as I sit, notebook open, bible at the ready, pen in my hand, the words spoken by one of His ministers ministers to the very heart of my struggle.  It's not about how often I read His words or even that I make time daily to spend in devotions.  For I can read and read and read...but if the Word is not penetrating my heart, immersing me in its truth-giving, life-changing power, I am completely missing the point. 

When I let doubt and anxiety creep into my heart and lack the confidence found in His Word, it is because I am not wholly depending on His Word to change me.  I must be more than a student of the word.  I must immerse myself in its truth, letting His word penetrate my heart to rebuke and change and mold me into who He wants me to be.

Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:17 that, in Christ, we are a new creation.  It is more than just a new name and a new appearance, but a new heart and a new nature.  Matthew Henry says "Regenerating grace creates a new world in the soul...The renewed man acts from new principles, by new rules, with new ends, and in new company."  And this work, this change in me is all God.  For "we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:10).

I fix my eyes on Him, the author and perfecter of my faith, the one who new no sin...and became sin for me.  That the Father made His son to be regarded and treated as sin even though He Himself never sinned...is a beautiful mystery I should never cease to be in awe of.  Because it is this mystery that changes lives.

 

Joy Dare: He Knows ME

Photo credit: wili_hybrid

This morning, I read these words of Truth:

 "O LORD, you have searched me and known me! 

You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar."  

(Psalm 139:1-2)

I was struck by this reminder that He not only created me and numbered my days, but that He also knows and cares about the little details of my life from my coming to my going, my sitting to my rising.

And, even more so, He knows my thoughts while they are still out of reach for me.  Matthew Henry puts it so beautifully when he explains, "Though my thoughts be ever so foreign and distant from one another, thou understandest the chain of them, and can make out their connexion, when so many of them slip my notice that I myself cannot". 

A few weeks ago, a friend shared this verse with me, "You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book?" (Psalm 56:8)

Today, as I continue to count His gifts, I am most thankful that I serve a Father who understands me more than anyone else on earth ever could.

***

127. News from the radiologist that my sweet friend, Kim, will not have to deliver her baby early. 


128. This truth: that though circumstances and trials be out of our control, it is always Him who goes before you. So, let your heart take courage and wait for the Lord, who is great and awesome and faithful. (Deuteronomy 31:6)


129. A mom who takes time out of her busy schedule to help me clean and ready our house for selling. 


130. A very, very clean house and a for sale sign as we look to the future.


131. My beautiful pregnant sister and the sweet baby girl growing healthy and strong in her womb.


132. A husband who reminds me that beauty is more than my outward appearance and who daily affirms that I am beautiful. 


133. The privilege and joy of raising the next generation and being more than just a mom to these little ones. 


134. This fallen world is not my home; I await the joyful hope of my citizenship in heaven and the transforming of this dying body into its glorious heavenly form. (Philippians 3:20-21)


135. I am not perfect, but I am enough. 


136. Sweet fellowship with friends who speak truth in love and words that are sweeter than honey...and that we were made for community, to encourage and build each other up.


137. Conversations between my little ones and watching a lifetime of friendship unfold. 


138. A gluten free cookie recipe that my husband, who enjoys a good gluten-filled dessert, calls "pretty good, babe". 


139. The blessing of MOPS and the group of women who have welcomed me with open arms and caring hearts. 


140. Doctors and nurses who care for our daughter's wound, stitches that heal, and a brave little girl who says after all she's endured, "I feel better now, mommy!".  


141. Shifting the focus from "two-piece swimsuits and skinny jeans to healthy heart, healthy body mass and healthy thoughts". 


142. This truth reminder for my tender, aching heart: "I’m loved, I really can do this. I’m chosen for a purpose."


143. Teaching my little ones to take care of our home and hearing them say, "I help you, mommy!" with joy and anticipation.


144. Laughter and sweet fellowship on a much needed mom's night out. 


145. His love that never fails, never gives up, and never runs out on me.


146. Cleaning and getting rid of more stuff - so freeing!


147. Knowing that my labor in the Lord is not in vain and that it is more than worth it to persevere and remain steadfast in my walk.  (1 Corinthians 15:58)


148. Celebrating nurses week by remembering the amazing NICU nurses who cared for our little ones so tenderly and compassionately. 


149. This beautiful love story and the reminder that love is a daily choice we make to put the needs of our loved one before our own. 


150. The tot spot at our local grocery store and kids who are excited to play while mommy grocery shops alone.


151. The Word of God that always proves true against all the lies the world throws my way.  (Psalm 18:30-32)


152. A much needed social media break and the time spent soaking up His truths and gaining a clearer perspective. 


153. "That motherhood is both the hardest and most magnificent thing you will ever do." 


154. Sharing the love of babywearing with other expectant mommas and learning more to better equip me for babywearing our littlest one. 


155. These mother's day words of love from my sisters: "Happy mothers day to the best mommy of THREE!" and "Happy mothers day :) you have some pretty lucky kids!".


156. A day "off" from mothering to enjoy a Brewers/Cubs game with my sisters, brothers, and cousins. 


157. Coming home to hand picked wildflowers and handmade cards from my little blessings and love from the three people who make my life more complete. 


158. A hubby who blessed me with the day off and is my biggest cheerleader on the hard mothering days. So thankful to have him by my side to journey this road of parenting together. It's a crazy, challenging life, but it is SO worth it.


159. Missing my sweet grandma on Mother's Day, but remembering the beautiful legacy she left and the family who carries pieces of her into the future.  


160. I am not perfect, but I press on to the perfection He promises in heaven because He has made me His own. (Philippians 3:12)


161. Being held safe and secure in the arms of the One who only allows what will build me up and mold me into the woman He desires me to be, not for my glory, but for His.  


162. Friends who remind me of His truth spoken in love and who join me in faithful prayer.


163. I will not shrink back and be destroyed when trials and struggles overwhelm, because I have a greater hope and nothing can separate me from His love.  


164. Finally feeling well enough to begin exercising again and discovering a new exercise routine that works for this pregnant momma.  


165. Connecting with a group of men and women who understand my gluten intolerance and the wealth of knowledge and resources gleaned from the local support group meeting.  


166. Discovering a $10 bill while cleaning out our bedroom closet.


167. Feeling more frequent and definite kicks from this littlest one in my womb - the coolest feeling ever.  


168. Though trials and tribulation may about in this world, I can take heart because HE has overcome the world (John 16:33)


169. Overhearing my daughter tenderly care for her brother, "Aw, yeddo, you got hurt. Wanna sleep on the couch...and I tuck you in?" Sometimes, as much as mommy wants to run and comfort even the little bumps and bruises, it's so precious to watch these two comfort each other.


170. "There's something so powerful about the friendships you can touch and see and feel." (Holley Gerth) So, so thankful for the friends God has placed in my life to dance with me in the moments of joy and cry with me in the moments of pain. ""When we're with people in the skin...it can really add richness to our lives." (Bonnie Gray)


171. When God reaches me with His word right where I am. I needed this today. Contentment does not come from wealth, success, health, or possessions, but from the feet of Christ, in wholly depending on Him, for when I am weak, He is strong and His grace is always sufficient. (Philippians 4:11-13)


172. Saying goodbye to sweet friends, but knowing that God has great plans in store for them and that they are obediently following Him exactly where He would have them be.


173. Cheering on our favorite mountain biker despite a rainy, muddy race day.


174. This quote from Matthew Henry's commentary about the importance of prayer and calling to God in our distress: "a good man is made up of prayer and gives himself to prayer".


175. That God, ultimately, overrules human sin and the effects of it. Not that He is the author of sin, but that He is in control of the events and directs the chain effects of human sin, not to make sin less punishable, but to further elevate His name to the praise and glory of the One who is over all.


176. Sunshine, bike rides, playgrounds, and picnics enjoyed with two sweet little ones and the steady pitter patter of the littlest one in my womb.


177. A 20 week ultrasound that revealed a healthy and ever growing baby BOY.


178. Waking up to a little monkey in my belly pitter-pattering away and another little monkey crawling all over our bed giggling. I couldn't help but smile - I'll take early mornings just to wake up to this happiness.


179. Date night with my love by his suggestion and parents who are more than happy to spend time with their grandkids.


180. A day at the beach chasing the waves and building sand castles with my loves.


181. Freedom, both in this land of the free and home of the brave (and for the men and women who sacrifice daily to keep it so) and in the redemption of my soul and the hope of eternal life in heaven.


182. Hearing our little ones memorize His words and encouraging their hearts to follow after Him.


183.  Long afternoon naps.


184. Grocery shopping in the early morning before my hubby leaves for work - so quiet and peaceful.


185. Beautiful maternity photos taken by a sweet friend.


186. The many rich and beautiful marriages that have encouraged and blessed my husband and I in our own marriages.


187. Singing hymns with my kids and hearing them say, "again, mommy! sing God song again!". 


188. The privilege to vote and have my voice heard. 


189. Celebrating 20 years since my baby brother joined our family and made it complete.


190. Overheard from my daughter, "And I love mommy too. Cuz I do!" And then my heart melted.


191. Baby shower festivities, the blessing of family, and the anticipation of our precious niece.

 

 

Five Minute Friday: Light

Blood pouring from fresh wounds on his broken body.

Every breath labored as he hung there on a cross.

My cross.

My sins.

That was my cross...



But He took my place.

Not because I deserved it.


Not because I was worthy.


Not because I earned it.

Because He loved me.





Darkness fell upon the earth.

"It is finished," He cried.

And with His words,

He breathed His last,

Offering His body as a sacrifice.


It's Friday...

But Sunday came.

Light pierced the darkness.

The stone in front of His tomb...

Rolled away...



His body, wounded, broken...

Dead on Good Friday.

But Sunday came.



"He is not here.  He is risen," the angel said.


The light of the world...

Conquered death...

Shattered the darkness...

Light and life so freely given.



I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12b)




Linking up with Lisa for 5 Minute Friday.

Sunday Scripture: {Of Pride & Humility}

Photo credit: Fr. Stephen, MSC

"When pride comes, 

then comes disgrace, 

but with the humble 

is wisdom."

Proverbs 11:2

This morning, our Pastor preached from the book of Esther, part 3 of a four part series.  We read through Esther 6-8 and focused on the downfall of Haman.  Pastor said that even today, when the name Haman is spoken during the retelling of this story, Jews will loudly yell "Boo!" in an effort to blot out his name from history.  

Haman was an evil villain who sought not only to get rid of Mordecai for refusing to bow down and show him respect but to destroy the entire Jewish population.  But God's hand was in this entire story, even though, interestingly enough, there is not a single mention of God in the entire book of Esther.  Still, God's work is seen throughout the story.  

God chose Esther for such a time as this to save her people from destruction.  Haman was the kind of person who thrived on status and wealth and loved to tell people how great he was.  After receiving a second dinner invitation from Queen Esther,  he brags to his family about how great he is.  

Then, when the king asks him what to do for a man he delights to honor, Haman thinks, "Whom would the king delight to honor more than me?" His pride ends up leading to his downfall when Queen Esther reveals Haman's evil plot to the king and Haman is sentenced to hanging on the very gallows he built to destroy Mordecai.  

It's easy to listen to a retelling of this story and judge Haman for his pride and his villainous behavior.  I mean, he was an evil man who deserved his punishment, right?  But, where does that leave me?  Does it make me a better person...a person more worthy of God's grace?  

I started to think about my own pride this morning, how easy it is to think about myself before anyone else, and, without even realizing it, my pride can get the better of me.  And, you know, I am just as guilty as Haman.  Because God says there is no one righteous, not even one.  And all have sinned and fall short of his glory - no exceptions.  

So, instead of judging Haman, maybe I should instead be examining my own heart and allowing God to change my heart and remind me that all that is good in me is all because of Him.  

Courageous Review & Giveaway

A few months ago, my hubby and I had the privilege of attending a pre-screening of the movie, Courageous.  It was an incredible and well done movie that I would love to watch over and over again.  The message is beautiful - a call for men to be courageous enough to stand up and be the men God has called them to be, to lead their homes in the way of the Lord.

Dayspring has partnered with the creators of Courageous to create a beautiful line of products.  They were generous enough to send me a resolution print just like the one used in the movie. 

photo credit: Dayspring

Here are the beautiful words written on this resolution:

THE RESOLUTION

I DO solemnly resolve before God to take full responsibility for myself, my wife, and my children.

I WILL love them, protect them, serve them, and teach them the Word of God as the spiritual leader of my home.

I WILL be faithful to my wife, to love and honor her, and be willing to lay down my life for her as Jesus Christ did for me.

I WILL bless my children and teach them to love God with all of their hearts, all of their minds, and all of their strength.

I WILL train them to honor authority and live responsibly.

I WILL confront evil, pursue justice, and love mercy.

I WILL pray for others and treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion.

I WILL work diligently to provide for the needs of my family.

I WILL forgive those who have wronged me and reconcile with those I have wronged.

I WILL learn from my mistakes, repent of my sins, and walk with integrity as a man answerable to God.

I WILL seek to honor God, be faithful to His church, obey His Word, and do His will.

I WILL courageously work with the strength God provides to fulfill this resolution for the rest of my life and for His glory.

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. ---Joshua 24:15

 In the past years, since we became parents, I have watched my husband grow into a man of faith who desires to be the leader in our home.  When I have struggled, he has been the one to remind me of God's promises and the truth that sets us free.  I am so thankful for his leadership and his desire to serve the Lord above all else. 

In the movie, Courageous, the main character creates this resolution out of a conviction to become the true leader of his home and to live up to the calling God has given him.  He challenged three of his friends to sign the resolution along with him as an outward sign of their commitment to serve the Lord in their role as leaders of their homes. 

Dayspring has also generously offered to giveaway ONE Resolution Print to one of my readers.  To enter, simply leave a comment here.  The giveaway will be open until 10:00 pm (CST) on Saturday, November 26th and a winner will be announced on Sunday, November 27th. 

If you haven't seen the movie, Courageous, check out this link to find a movie showing near you.  You can also send a free e-card or find where to purchase Courageous products. 

Disclosure: Dayspring provided me with a FREE product to review and giveaway for this post, but the opinions expressed are completely my own. 

Tot School: A is for Acorn

We missed Tot School yesterday, because miss V was getting a cold and we were both feeling quite tired.  Today, we continued our letter A theme by doing some acorn activities and one more apple project.  First, I cut an apple in half and we talked about how the seeds inside an apple can be used to grow another apple tree.  (Tomorrow, we're going to attempt to "plant" one just for fun.)  Then, I let her stamp with the apple using some finger paints.  She loved it and kept saying "mommy, I do that!"

Next, we talked about other words that start with A like Almanzo and acorn.  A few weeks ago, she found an acorn at Ted's bike race so she recognized the picture of an acorn right away.  I found two A is for Acorn worksheets and let her color them in.  Instead of coloring in the A's like the rest of the sheet, she was really careful to draw straight lines and follow the lines of the letter.  Before I know it she'll be writing the letter A all by herself!

Finally, we did a cut and paste project with an acorn outline I drew on a sheet of white paper and scraps of paper cut out from a paper grocery bag.  I let her color in the grocery bag with a dark brown and light brown color and then tore each color into pieces so she could paste them onto the acorn outline.  Then, I cut out the finished acorn and mounted it onto a green piece of cardstock to display on the fridge.  She couldn't wait to show her daddy her projects when he got home.

She was also excited to begin a "new class" (Cubbies) at Awana tonight.  I'm feeling like I'm getting the cold Ted and Valerie have, so I decided to stay home tonight, but Ted brought her over and got her registered and I will pick her up later.  I almost cried seeing how grown up she looked as she went with daddy to her "new class".

PS - The wildfires in Texas today are dangerously close to where my brother-in-law and sister-in-law live (less than 10 miles away!).  So far, it's under control, but you just never know what a fire will do.  I know they would appreciate prayers for the fires to be contained and for their home to be safe...and for rain to relieve Texas from the drought causing all these fires. 

Galatians 6

On Friday afternoon, my husband and I dropped off the kids at my parents' house and headed up north for a couples retreat.  It was a wonderful gift from my parents to be able to spend the week with my husband rekindling our love and being encouraged in our marriage.  My parents have told me many times over the years that one of the most important things they've learned about parenting is that the best thing they could do for their children was to make their marriage a priority.  I remember my parents making time for each other often when we were growing up and I never once doubted their commitment and love for each other.  I have so much to share about what God laid on our hearts over the weekend, but, for now, I wanted to finish sharing about my study of Galatians.  Since today is a Sunday, I'm not going to try to get caught up on today's study of Ephesians chapter 1.  I will try to do Ephesians 1 and 2 tomorrow, so stay tuned...and, if you've been reading along with me this past week, thank you for joining me.  I pray God would be glorified through my words here and that you would hear the words of the Lord and take them to heart.

This morning, in Sunday School, we had a special preacher, Ryan Martin, the brother of our youth pastor, Rory, and my Wednesday night bible study teacher, Regan.  Ryan preached about the responsibility of hearing the word of God, not just externally, but internally.  In John 6:68 (ESV), Peter says to Jesus, after some of the disciples had walked away from Jesus because they did not want to hear the truths he was sharing, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life."  The words He has given us in the bible are so precious, because they show us the way to eternal life.

But, there's a difference between just hearing and hearing and believing the word of God.  Even the demons hear the word of God, but they do not hear and believe what it says.  I loved this quote from Ryan, "The words we need to hear are not popular thought but the permanent and abiding word of God."  Because His words are permanent and abiding, we should savor and embrace the words, so we can "taste the glory of Christ in His words".  These truths were just another encouragement to keep on making time to read and study His words that I might hide His words in my heart and His truth would change and grow me into the woman He desires me to be.

As I read Galatians 6 this morning, I was convicted by Paul's closing statements.  First, in verses 1-10 he reminds us that what we sow, we will also reap.  If we sow to our own flesh, we will reap corruption, but if we sow to the Spirit, we will reap eternal life.  He also encourages us to continue doing good and bearing each other's burdens in order to "fulfill the law of Christ" (verse 2).  In Christ, we are no longer bound by the law of Moses, but to a new law and the most important part of the new law is to love your neighbor as yourself.  When we love each other, the whole law of Christ (all his teachings and examples He gave here on earth) will easily follow.

John 13:34 (KJV) says, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another."  But, what does it mean to really love others the way Christ did?  The word "love" used here is "agapao" which means "of the love which led Christ, in procuring human salvation, to undergo sufferings and death" and "of the benevolence which God, in providing salvation for men, has exhibited by sending His Son to them and giving Him up to death" (according to Strong's Concordance).  So, if Christ showed His love by suffering a death he didn't deserve, how much more should I love my husband, my children, my sisters, my brothers, and everyone God places in my life?  

But Paul also warns us not to become like those who make "a good showing in the flesh" or try to please and put on an outward appearance of being a good and righteous person.  Matthew 6:5 says, "And when you pray you must not be like the hypocrites.  For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others.  Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward."  The only way I am righteous is because of Jesus' blood and righteousness.  So, as the hymn says, "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' name.  On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand."  If I should boast in anything, it is that Jesus died for me, for I am nothing without Him. 

Our Little Puggle

Since our Sweet Pea is now 2, she was able to join Awana this year.  Our church has a Puggles club for 2 and 3 year olds, which kind of introduces them to Awana and helps prepare them for Cubbies.  When I first heard of Puggles, I thought it was the funniest name.  What is a Puggle anyways?  A Puggle is another name for a baby platypus, so the Puggles t-shirts have an adorable little baby platypus on them.  I can hardly believe my little girl is already big enough for Awana.  Before I know it we will be shopping for a Prom dress...can somebody PLEASE slow down time for me, because my little ones are growing WAY too fast!

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)

Special Music

I love singing at church, especially when I have the opportunity to sing with some wonderful women.  Here are two of the pieces I was recently part of singing for special music during our church services.

Ladies Quartet

Naiza, Mellie, Christa, and me

(I can't remember the name of the song ;) and if you listen at the end you can hear Almanzo making some noise unto the Lord - ha!)

 

"O To Be Like Thee"

Duet with Amy

***

Thank you so much for all your prayers for the illness going through our home.  We are finally seeing an end to it.  Valerie started getting better on Tuesday and Almanzo started sounding much better last night.  I really think the nebulizer was a huge factor in preventing Almanzo from getting anything worse and ending up in the hospital.  It just seems like this is a horrible year for sickness.  Just at our church alone, there are cases of bronchiolitis, bronchitis, and RSV in the past week and before that there was a nasty 24 hour stomach virus going around.  Ted even stayed home from work on Tuesday and came home early yesterday. 

I ended up taking myself to the doctor yesterday, because my asthma was really aggravated by the cold.  I started taking Advair before Christmas as a preventative thing and that has made a huge difference.  I think I would have been in the ER this time if it weren't for the Advair.  I called my doctor yesterday morning because I'd been relying on my nebulizer quite a bit the day before and through the night.  Her nurse told me I definitely needed to come in, because they were seeing a lot of pneumonia and my asthma obviously needed to be checked out.  The doctor put me on Prednisone (for the second time in four months) and I already feel better.  It really got me thinking though about how much I need to take care of myself.  My asthma was really bad when I was a kid, but got better after my heart surgery.  Then, within the last two years, it has gotten worse again.  It's a scary thing, not being able to breathe, and it makes me worry about getting another cold and how my body will continue to handle it.

I decided last night that I HAVE to start exercising, except my husband told me not to call it that because I hate exercising.  The one reality show I love to watch is The Biggest Loser, so I went online this morning and purchased three of their DVDs - 30 Day Shred, Boot Camp, and 30 Day Jump Start.  I think I will start with the 30 Day Jump Start, then move on to the Boot Camp, and finish with the 30 Day Shred.  I've been told Jillian really makes you work hard in the 30 Day Shred, so I'm going to work myself up to it.  Since I'm a morning person and Almanzo likes to wake up between 6 and 7, I'm going to go downstairs and do one of the 20-30 minute workouts after feeding him and getting him back to sleep.  If he's still awake, I can always put him in a bouncy seat while I do my workout.  I will try to blog about it every so often and would love your encouragement and support...because I know it's going to be hard and I need some accountability.  I'll try to give an update each week on my progress once I start.

***

I'm also really excited about three opportunities I have to do review/giveaways on my blog.  Two of them are related to cold season and I'd love your input on other products/companies I could contact that offer natural cold remedies or relief.  I would especially love to work with mommy businesses, because I love to support stay at home moms.

***

This weekend I'm going to try posting some pictures and videos from the past few weeks once I get caught up on all my photo editing.  Stay tuned next week for some exciting posts related to Valentine's Day.  I'm working on putting together a series of posts about Real Life Love Stories to share here.  I have been blessed with a long heritage of long lasting marriages and am hoping to share some of their stories here as well as their advice for how to make a marriage that lasts a lifetime. 

2 Month Old

Our Little Pumpkin is officially 2 months old and growing like a weed (or, should I say, a vegetable ;). He weighs over 12 pounds and is 22 1/2 inches long as of his appointment today.  He smiles and is starting to make little baby cooing sounds.  He has also been sleeping like a champ - last night he slept EIGHT hours in a row.  I've started to transition him to taking naps in his cradle instead of the swing or bouncy seat, but he's almost getting to big for the cradle.  I had to pull out all the 3-6 month clothes yesterday, because he is too big for most of his 0-3 month clothes now.  He has more and more alert times where he likes to look all around the room and kick his legs and move his arms.  He also likes to stand and bounce up and down; when I have him sitting in my lap he often stretches out his body so he can stand up. 

Making faces

Thumb sucker

Streeeeeeeeeetching...waking up is hard to do...

We had his baby dedication at our church last weekend.  Basically, a baby dedication is when we commit to raising our child to know about the Lord and ask for prayer and support from our church family as we raise our children.  Our Pastor prayed for us to have wisdom and patience as we learn to be the parents God wants us to be, for Almanzo to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and to walk with Him, and for Valerie to be a good big sister who would encourage him and be a testimony of faith.  We know our children are blessings from the Lord and we look forward to teaching them to love and serve Him. 

Ted, Stephanie, Almanzo, and Pastor

Pastor & Almanzo

Grandpa & Almanzo

Kim meeting Almanzo for the first time

Our Sweet Pea continues to keep us entertained as she learns knew things each day and is developing her own little personality.  She loves to explore and get into everything, which leaves me saying "No!" a lot these days.  She has even started to throw little fits when she doesn't get her way.  She is starting to say a few actual words, like "milk", "drink", "baby", "mom", "hi", "dad", and "whoa!", but mostly she just talks in her own language.  She is quite the little chatterbox!  She likes to "help" her little brother by giving him hugs, talking to him, and giving him his pacifier.  She really loves to take baths; her newest thing is lying on her belly in the tub and splashing with her arms and legs like she's swimming.  She can almost climb up on the couch too, which she tries to do when I'm nursing Almanzo or she wants something that is just out of her reach.  She is very curious and gets frustrated when she can't figure something out. 

She was trying to hide from me, but I caught her!

Story time

 

Steve Green In Concert

Once a year, our church/school sponsors a speaker as part of a Take Back the Home concert/conference.  The purpose of these conferences is to expose "our community to tools and information that would help build successful homes".  This year, Take Back the Home is this Saturday night and features the vocal talents of Steve Green.  So, if you are local and free on Saturday night...come join us for another great Take Back the Home.

Welcome to the World, Little Ones!

Update on Friday morning - Kim had a baby boy! They named him Isaac Daniel and he is the sweetest little one! He has a full head of hair (way more than Valerie!) and looks just like a Struska. I only got to visit for a short time and the nurses decided to take him to the nursery to warm him up a little, but I'm hoping to visit again today. Kim looked really tired (which I think was from the medicine), but no longer had a headache. Praise the Lord for a healthy and safe delivery for both mommy and baby!

Update @2:15 pm - Kim's sister just posted on Facebook that Kim is only 3 cm and experiencing some migraine pain. This is a little scary if you know Kim's medical history. (They found a tumor causing migraines while she was pregnant with her third child, who is almost 2.) They gave her some medicine to relieve the migraine pain, but it's making her eyes want to shut. They have given her petosin which will hopefully help her to progress more and finally have this baby. Keep on praying, prayer warriors!

Remember this post and the picture of all the pregnant women in my church? Well, by the end of the day today three of the seven babies will have arrived in the world. A few weeks ago, my friend, Beth, delivered tiny Timothy (who weighs just over 4 lbs now) and yesterday, my friend, Amber, delivered an 8 lb bouncing baby boy, Weston. Today, one of my best friends, Kim, is being induced with her fourth child. So, this afternoon I will be heading to the hospital to visit TWO new babies...and I CAN'T wait! Please pray for a safe delivery and a healthy baby. I will try to post pictures later.

Last Week in Review

Remember when I posted about our summer already being busy? Well, it hasn't really slowed down, hence the decrease in posting lately. I'm not complaining though - I LOVE summers and all the busy-ness that comes with it.

***

If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you know that my hubby competed in some road races last week. There was a series of road races called Tour of America's Dairyland that took place in several cities in Wisconsin including Fond du Lac and Greenbush. Ted competed in the first Fond du Lac race on Tuesday (and decided not to do the race on Wednesday after braving the extreme heat on Tuesday!) and the Greenbush race on Friday. Valerie and I decided against sitting out at the race on Tuesday, because it was well above 90 degrees and humid...and there isn't much shade at a road race. So, we dropped him off and went on a few errands before arriving back to watch the finish. I'm glad we made it back for the finish too...because Ted was the Cat 3 WINNER! I didn't have my camera with me, but there was a photographer taking photos. I asked Ted to order the digital print so I could post it here...so, here is his victory pose (that he said he had been practicing - haha!)...

The race on Friday was not quite as hot, but I was not too happy about the arrangement for spectators (...and my poor hubby had to put up with my tears instead of warming up...). We could only pass off water bottles in a VERY small "Feed Zone" which consisted of a NON-shaded shoulder of a country road. There was seriously only about a foot of space on the shoulder to stand on because the rest of the shoulder sloped down and was filled with nasty vines and weeds. (This also happened to be where all the empty water bottles were thrown...but thankfully there was another spectator who kindly retrieved Ted's empty bottles for me so my pregnant belly didn't have to attempt falling into the weeds...ha...that would have been a funny sight!) The rest of the spectator viewing area was also on the NON-shaded side of the road which was infested with mosquitoes. Valerie spent the whole time in the stroller, because that kept her somewhat shaded and there wasn't really a grassy area for her to crawl around in. I was thankful to have an umbrella to shade myself and was offered a chair to sit in by one of the race volunteers. Plus, there was a nice breeze every so often and it wasn't nearly as hot and humid as Tuesday...and I know my hubby was thankful to have us there. We have just decided that road races are not very family oriented and not really suited to spectators either...so we'll stick to mountain biking!

Speaking of mountain biking - I think Ted had a slight advantage in Friday's race, because it was very hilly...and that's what most mountain bike races are like too. He took the lead after the second or third lap and maintained it until the very end. He said his leg started to cramp up and the four bikers behind him caught up to out-sprint him for the finish. So, he finished fifth, but raced very well. Here are a few pictures of the race, though none of Ted because I couldn't pass off water bottles AND take pictures at the same time...

Waiting for Daddy...and trying to stay out of the sun

I love this action shot...this is in the "Feed Zone" where there was NO slowing down because it also happened to be a great spot to pass other riders...

More bikers in the "Feed Zone"

Neutral race support

The "Feed Zone consisted of the the area just a little bit behind where I was standing on the left side of the road to just past the person with the cooler on the left (and ONLY on the left)...and spectators could only stand on the RIGHT side of the road

***

Our car needed some repairs last week. The "Check Engine" light has been on in our car for the past few weeks and it has started to act up too. We found out we need to replace the "Idle Air Speed Control"...which is apparently very uncommon so they didn't even have the part in stock. So, this week I have to make another trip to the Subaru dealership to get the part put in once it arrives. And...after two trips to a repair shop in town and last week's trip to the dealership in Appleton...and the final trip this week to put the part in...it's going to cost a grand total of around $600. I'll just be glad to have a car that works properly...

***

I offered to start a one-on-one bible study with a former student of mine. She was excited about the idea and we decided to use Kay Arthur's "How to Study Your Bible" for kids. I dropped Valerie off with her mom and then the two of us went to the local Christian bookstore/coffee shop for about an hour on Tuesday morning. We both really like how the bible study is laid out. I love that it really helps kids learn how to study on their own and doesn't water down God's word. One of my favorite things about a Kay Arthur study is that she doesn't give all the answers, but encourages you to search out the truths in His word on your own. The bible study I'm doing with some of my friends on Tuesday afternoon is going through the same study but for adults. It's fun that they both teach the same concepts, but the adult one goes through the book of Jonah and the kids one is going through Titus. I've decided to take my notes in a notebook instead of the book so I can save the study for my kids when they are older. At the beginning of the year, I made a goal of reading through my bible in a year. I haven't kept up with it lately, but have found it more rewarding to do more in depth studies and have become much more consistent about spending time in His word each day. As I taught the little kids on Wednesday nights, it's always exciting to study God's word and discover the treasures He has hidden for us.

***

On Saturday was the baby shower for my friend, Amy. I've been busy planning it the last few weeks and it was a great success. She is due the beginning of August and her poor feet are already letting her know she's getting close to the end. It was so much fun to plan and I was so happy to do this for Amy. Amy's husband is set to be deployed to Iraq soon and is already away training for his deployment. This is his second deployment since they got married, so she knows a little more what to expect, but I'm sure it will be different with a new baby. I know that she would appreciate all your prayers for her with a new baby on the way and her husband's upcoming deployment.

Here are some pictures from the baby shower...

The sweet momma-to-be and the cake made by our friend, Kerry

Showing off her baby belly ;)


Baby carriage fruit bowl

Welcome, Little Tyke

(DELICIOUS cake made by our friend, Kerry)

Diaper cake (made by me)

The pregnancy club ;)

(L to R: Kim - due July 3rd, Amy - due August 1st, Stephanie - due October 27th, Christa - due July 16th, Amber - due July 20th, Laurie - due September 29th)

Super Mom Mellie with one of the twins (which I still can't tell apart!) and Laurie (who is also expecting her first!)

Hannah, Kimberly, Beth (whose little one was born 6 weeks early but doing really well), Carolyn, Amber, Annika, Zoe

LeAnn, Kerry, Rachel, Naiza, Brenda, Sarah, Lin

***

Yesterday, we had a great church service, though I didn't get to enjoy all of it. (Valerie and I are fighting colds and she wanted mommy all day.) We are going through the book of Acts during our Sunday School time and morning service. One of the men from our church, Darryl, is teaching our Sunday School group and I just love the unique insights and background he brings to his lessons. He loves history and also has interesting pieces of history to share that help explain the context of a passage. Our youth pastor, Rory, also put together a booklet of additional questions for each passage of Acts that we can use to study at home. I just started going through mine over the weekend and I just love how everything is tying together. I love being able to take what I learned through Pastor's preaching and Darryl's teaching and study it more in depth on my own. I'm reminded of Psalm 63:1 (NKJV) when David said...

"Oh God, You are my God;

Early will I seek You;

My soul thirsts for You;

My flesh longs for You;

In a dry and thirsty land

Where there is no water."

There is nothing more satisfying or filling that the Word of God!