Well, Wednesday came. It was our ultrasound day. I can't say I was not nervous. Just the same, I knew that the Lord would hold us close no matter what the day would bring. We would bet through it, because we know the one who holds today and tomorrow. As I lay on that table, watching the tech, search for our baby, my heart nearly stopped, as I silently prayed for strength.
Oh, the joy that filled my heart, when the tech, found our sweet baby on the screen, and announced, "Congratulations, we have a heartbeat" Oh, "Praise the LORD", I said (and I meant just that). Our babies heart rate is just where it should be. The uterine bleed while still there is getting smaller. God is growing our little one, just as He sees fit. A beautiful blessing being knitted in Love, by the one who shaped the earth, heavens, and all that is in it.
I pray daily for both of my children on this earth. The blessing I hold within me, and the daughter who has stolen a part of her mothers heart.
May one day, my children, point others to Jesus. Please continue to pray. We praise the Lord, for what He is doing!!!!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Still on Bed Rest
I tell you, its not so easy with a three year old. This could continue the whole pregnancy (Lord willing, that would make it 7 more months. Nothing is tougher for me, than to not be able to play with my daughter like I'd like to, and to let the house chores go. But...there is a blessing in all this. In the quiet, in the still, there is God. When we stop...when we settle, and when we are still..and can do NOTHING on our own...there is God. When we have laid our Issac down, walked away knowing it was never in our hands to begin with...we will find the Savior who was there, from the beginning. Our relationship with him grows stronger, when we burrow in deep to His love. When we remember WHO is in control. When we give up the busy..and give in to the mercy and grace, and the wonder of HIM. May I use this time wisely. And when the bed rest is no longer needed..may I remember that the REST IN CHRIST..still is.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
When the wind blows
We (or should I say I) started experiencing some cramping, so I ran to the doctor...
They discovered that either my dates are off, or the pregnancy is not progressing as it should..
And I have a uterine bleed. This can dissolve on its own...or it could cause a miscarriage.
This baby means so very much to us, just as our daughter Lily does. We have no control over what happens...but I do know who does..the Lord. I don't understand why He does what He does..but I don't NEED to. I only need to TRUST, and to remember, when the wind blows, and if the cradle SHOULD fall...who holds us. He controls it all. The wind, my body, and this sweet baby that rests within me.
May WHATEVER happens..bring, Glory to God, and point others to Christ. Please pray for our family, and our sweet blessing in the process of being knitted.
They discovered that either my dates are off, or the pregnancy is not progressing as it should..
And I have a uterine bleed. This can dissolve on its own...or it could cause a miscarriage.
This baby means so very much to us, just as our daughter Lily does. We have no control over what happens...but I do know who does..the Lord. I don't understand why He does what He does..but I don't NEED to. I only need to TRUST, and to remember, when the wind blows, and if the cradle SHOULD fall...who holds us. He controls it all. The wind, my body, and this sweet baby that rests within me.
May WHATEVER happens..bring, Glory to God, and point others to Christ. Please pray for our family, and our sweet blessing in the process of being knitted.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Psssssssssst....I have a secret!!!!
I'm expecting a new blessing!!!!!!!! I can't tell you how excited I am. New little baby Sandlin is due in February. I am about six weeks along now. Feeling some what well, actually. We have wanted a new baby brother or sister for Lily for so long. Oh the blessings the Father has bestowed on our family. I've already hit the garage sales (I am addicted to them, and now with an excuse, mind you) for baby clothes. My mom and sister (THANKS GUYS!), bought me my preggo clothes at one the other day.
Sooo..now i have something else to talk to you all (well, that is if anyone reads this, otherwise I'm talking to myself again) about!
Sooo..now i have something else to talk to you all (well, that is if anyone reads this, otherwise I'm talking to myself again) about!
Can you hear me now?
As I find myself back in the blogging swing (I've been busy lately)...I have to wonder..Does anybody read this? I really am wondering, if anybody knows I'm out there. I remember an episode of the twilight zone (I LOVE that show), where a man wakes up to be the last man on earth. I remember him saying...Hey, is Anybody OUT THERE??????...So, IS ANYBODY OUT THERE??????
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
When God takes us by Surprise.
Why is it, that when we ask the Lord for something, we are surprised when He blesses us with what we asked for (and sometimes beyond)?
For the last year, I have been bringing my petition before the Lord, to move, from our current apartment. Its about ready to fall over. The Lady upstairs bathroom floor is caving in. She would land in our bedroom if the floor gives way. I'm not sure who would be more horrified by the falling throne, Her, or us. I can see the headlines now. Woman crushed by falling toilet. Makes for a great headline, and maybe even a great epitaph on the tombstone....but not something I really want to try. The mice and the spiders, are now co-mingling, and they seem to be on a rise up against us. The mold is taking over my basement...and my kitchen sink broke. I have to tell you here, I am a bit of a neat freak. When we lived in a hotel room for a while, I would clean it, before the maids came. So, I am about ready to have a nervous break down here. Still I count my blessings for lights, a roof, and running water (Hey the potty in my bathroom seems stable).
We tried for a home loan but were denied. I was beginning to get down trodden and worry (you know, two things God says NOT to be). My Lily's asthma is getting worse here. The Lady above us in our apartment house, smokes more then our old car did. It filters down to us. I was tempted to put some "help" information in her mail box, but instead...I kept praying...and praying. I heard the Lord, say, "DO you STILL trust me?????" I said, "Yes, Lord, I don't understand, but I trust you".
Yesterday, I was thinking, of the choices we made, that landed us here. I have made some huge bad choices in the last six years. I was thinking, Lord, what are you still trying to teach me??? I know I brought some of this on myself....but PLEASE FATHER, PLEASE restore what the locust have eaten! If not, Lord, SHOW ME, what you want me to do!
Just then, the phone rang. It was a friend from our church. She was supposed to be out of state then but her flights were delayed for the storms we had. She said, I don't know WHY it's taken me so long to understand what God wants me to do, but I do now. The house is going to sit empty in July, would you John and Lily like to move in, when your cousin and wife leave at the end of July? All I want is the utilities paid, and the lawn done...never been smoked in, pretty little two bedroom. We can live there while she lives out of state (about two years I think) Of course I said, yes, and was overjoyed, and what the Lord has given us.
My cup is running over, over flowing. In the two years we live there, we will save so much money towards a home of our own. My little girl prays for a scooter and a puppy everyday. I know the same God, who heard my cry, and restored what I thought was lost, will one day answer her prayer too.
Sometimes the Lord, says, No....Sometimes He says, yes,...Sometimes, He says, Wait. And sometimes, in the silence, when we begin to wonder, if He is even Near, He is saying, "DO YOU TRUST ME, MY CHILD????....and then when He knows we do, He will pour out his blessings upon us. Shaken down and overflowing. Oh, the love of the Father for His children.
For the last year, I have been bringing my petition before the Lord, to move, from our current apartment. Its about ready to fall over. The Lady upstairs bathroom floor is caving in. She would land in our bedroom if the floor gives way. I'm not sure who would be more horrified by the falling throne, Her, or us. I can see the headlines now. Woman crushed by falling toilet. Makes for a great headline, and maybe even a great epitaph on the tombstone....but not something I really want to try. The mice and the spiders, are now co-mingling, and they seem to be on a rise up against us. The mold is taking over my basement...and my kitchen sink broke. I have to tell you here, I am a bit of a neat freak. When we lived in a hotel room for a while, I would clean it, before the maids came. So, I am about ready to have a nervous break down here. Still I count my blessings for lights, a roof, and running water (Hey the potty in my bathroom seems stable).
We tried for a home loan but were denied. I was beginning to get down trodden and worry (you know, two things God says NOT to be). My Lily's asthma is getting worse here. The Lady above us in our apartment house, smokes more then our old car did. It filters down to us. I was tempted to put some "help" information in her mail box, but instead...I kept praying...and praying. I heard the Lord, say, "DO you STILL trust me?????" I said, "Yes, Lord, I don't understand, but I trust you".
Yesterday, I was thinking, of the choices we made, that landed us here. I have made some huge bad choices in the last six years. I was thinking, Lord, what are you still trying to teach me??? I know I brought some of this on myself....but PLEASE FATHER, PLEASE restore what the locust have eaten! If not, Lord, SHOW ME, what you want me to do!
Just then, the phone rang. It was a friend from our church. She was supposed to be out of state then but her flights were delayed for the storms we had. She said, I don't know WHY it's taken me so long to understand what God wants me to do, but I do now. The house is going to sit empty in July, would you John and Lily like to move in, when your cousin and wife leave at the end of July? All I want is the utilities paid, and the lawn done...never been smoked in, pretty little two bedroom. We can live there while she lives out of state (about two years I think) Of course I said, yes, and was overjoyed, and what the Lord has given us.
My cup is running over, over flowing. In the two years we live there, we will save so much money towards a home of our own. My little girl prays for a scooter and a puppy everyday. I know the same God, who heard my cry, and restored what I thought was lost, will one day answer her prayer too.
Sometimes the Lord, says, No....Sometimes He says, yes,...Sometimes, He says, Wait. And sometimes, in the silence, when we begin to wonder, if He is even Near, He is saying, "DO YOU TRUST ME, MY CHILD????....and then when He knows we do, He will pour out his blessings upon us. Shaken down and overflowing. Oh, the love of the Father for His children.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Be not afraid.
I read somewhere that The Bible mentions 365 times, "DO NOT BE AFRAID". That would be one for every day of the year. I know very well, that when trying times come, it is so easy to forget the Lord said that. It's so easy to become overwhelmed with what this world has to offer. We are faced with death, disease, loss of jobs, home foreclosures, fire, famine, car accidents, violence, and about a thousand other things, that mess up OUR plans. We plan for happy marriages, only to have those cut short. We plan our careers, only to lose our job. We plan for large families and are faced with infertility. We plan to watch our children grow, only for the Lord to take them HOME sooner than we planned.
In all that, it is sooo easy to question, what God is doing. We are human, and we don't understand it all. If we did, I believe it would make God smaller in our eyes. But the truth remains through it all...that God is God, and the same through it all. He is the same, in the famine, as He is in the feast. He loves us the same, and watches over us the same. He expects our trust, and more importantly He deserves it.
I need to remember that in the big and the small things, and lately I have struggled there. When we can't get the house we want. When my husband hasn't gotten the promotion he needs, when we can't seem to have more children, when money is short, and cost is high...that it has NOT taken my God by surprise, and He expects me to TRUST, and to NOT be AFRAID, or WORRIED...for my ticket is punched, my destination is set, and the Lord, is at the wheel.
In all that, it is sooo easy to question, what God is doing. We are human, and we don't understand it all. If we did, I believe it would make God smaller in our eyes. But the truth remains through it all...that God is God, and the same through it all. He is the same, in the famine, as He is in the feast. He loves us the same, and watches over us the same. He expects our trust, and more importantly He deserves it.
I need to remember that in the big and the small things, and lately I have struggled there. When we can't get the house we want. When my husband hasn't gotten the promotion he needs, when we can't seem to have more children, when money is short, and cost is high...that it has NOT taken my God by surprise, and He expects me to TRUST, and to NOT be AFRAID, or WORRIED...for my ticket is punched, my destination is set, and the Lord, is at the wheel.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Is Mothers Day over?
Its the day after, my calenders reading of "Mothers Day". Today there will no special dinners, or fancy gifts. No extra rest. No one will say Happy Mothers Day.
Today, I will still be recognized. The same little girl that shouted "MOOOMMMY" in desperation, yesterday, will do the same today. I will still get the same Hugs, the same kisses, and the same I love you Mommy's. The same little girl who curled up in my lap, yesterday will do the same for story time today. She will still color me pictures, and follow me from room to room. I am STILL Mommy. I didn't need a calender to remind me. I am still the one who kisses boo boos, changes clothes, and potty trains. Today the floors will be cleaned, and dinner will be fixed. Faces will be wiped, and bath time bubbles will abound.
Today I am still blessed. My job is the same, and Still wonderful and grand in nature. There IS NO greater calling. I have been entrusted with something far more valuable than gold, silver, or government secrets. I have been entrusted with something far more precious that rubies, or diamonds. I have been entrusted with one of GODS KIDS. See, Lily is not mine. I may be her Mom, but she belongs to the Lord. I didn't create her, purchase her, or do anything worth enough to earn her...I have been entrusted to CARE for her, for as long as the Lord deems it so.
I can think of NO BETTER PRIVILEGE outside of my salvation.
Three and a half years ago, I sat at the beside of a tiny baby named Lily. I was unsure if the Father would let me keep her. She was so ill, and doctors said she would not live. I remember praying, and praying, not just for her, but for my own heart. I laid her at the feet of Jesus. I couldn't walk away though. I knelt beside the Lord, and waited..praying. I waited for His final answer. I knew that if He should choose that her time on this earth be done, be it though short, that Gods plan was not done. Her life would NOT be in vain..and that MY time as a MOM was not over..for I was still her Mommy, even if she was to be in heaven.
The Lord chose to let her stay with us. I know each day of hers and Mine is planned by the Lord. Each one has a reason..and each one will be accomplished as the Lord wills it to.
Tomorrow my day will mean nothing special on the calender. It will just be plain old May 13. But it will be ANOTHER DAY AS A MOM!!!!!!!! I can't think of any better reason to celebrate..can you?
Today, I will still be recognized. The same little girl that shouted "MOOOMMMY" in desperation, yesterday, will do the same today. I will still get the same Hugs, the same kisses, and the same I love you Mommy's. The same little girl who curled up in my lap, yesterday will do the same for story time today. She will still color me pictures, and follow me from room to room. I am STILL Mommy. I didn't need a calender to remind me. I am still the one who kisses boo boos, changes clothes, and potty trains. Today the floors will be cleaned, and dinner will be fixed. Faces will be wiped, and bath time bubbles will abound.
Today I am still blessed. My job is the same, and Still wonderful and grand in nature. There IS NO greater calling. I have been entrusted with something far more valuable than gold, silver, or government secrets. I have been entrusted with something far more precious that rubies, or diamonds. I have been entrusted with one of GODS KIDS. See, Lily is not mine. I may be her Mom, but she belongs to the Lord. I didn't create her, purchase her, or do anything worth enough to earn her...I have been entrusted to CARE for her, for as long as the Lord deems it so.
I can think of NO BETTER PRIVILEGE outside of my salvation.
Three and a half years ago, I sat at the beside of a tiny baby named Lily. I was unsure if the Father would let me keep her. She was so ill, and doctors said she would not live. I remember praying, and praying, not just for her, but for my own heart. I laid her at the feet of Jesus. I couldn't walk away though. I knelt beside the Lord, and waited..praying. I waited for His final answer. I knew that if He should choose that her time on this earth be done, be it though short, that Gods plan was not done. Her life would NOT be in vain..and that MY time as a MOM was not over..for I was still her Mommy, even if she was to be in heaven.
The Lord chose to let her stay with us. I know each day of hers and Mine is planned by the Lord. Each one has a reason..and each one will be accomplished as the Lord wills it to.
Tomorrow my day will mean nothing special on the calender. It will just be plain old May 13. But it will be ANOTHER DAY AS A MOM!!!!!!!! I can't think of any better reason to celebrate..can you?
Friday, May 9, 2008
Good Hair Day...
I suppose the Lord does this to keep me from getting too Vain. I have to say I am having a WONDERFUL hair day...and NO ONE IS HERE TO SEE IT. No one came to visit. DH is gone till late, and I have not been anywhere. Tomorrow is Moms Day out on the Town..and what do you want to bet, it will be anything BUT a good hair day.
The Lord sure has a sense of humor...
Good thing I've learned to laugh about it too..LOL
The Lord sure has a sense of humor...
Good thing I've learned to laugh about it too..LOL
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Where are we going?
Last week my husband and I set off on an adventure of a lifetime (okay, so my life is boring, normally). We were going to meet a friend I had met over the internet (gasp, thats how DH and I met too) on a Christian site about raising Godly children. We had never met in real life, but our bond as sisters in Christ had grown over the months, and we decided to meet! On Thursday before leaving we noticed a tire going flat., $115.32 later it was replaced. Late last Thursday we packed up the car and drove the long distance to Chicago. DH said it would take four hours. Usually he knows where he's going..so I trusted that in FOUR hours we would hit our hotel room, and I could fall in bed and go to sleep. I have an allergy issue, and the medicine I took was stronger than I though. 20 minutes after leaving, I fell fast asleep. 3 hours later I woke up. I said Hey..we should almost be there.
Ahem...well we were sort of. We DID arrive in Chicago safely. Finding the hotel room..not so easy. We stopped and asked for directions from a nice police man (who told us our tire on the other side of the car was going flat). He was wrong about the tire, AND the directions. He sent us 30 min the wrong direction. An half an hour later we asked yet another policeman for directions. He too sent us on a wild goose chase. I was beginning to think this was a game they play with lost people from Michigan. They must have been radioing each other laughing at these poor people from Michigan. We finally stopped at another hotel (a competition to the one we were going to LOL) and would you believe they told us just how to get there? Finally we were able to crash in our bed, at close to 4:00 in the morning. Three hours later, we were awakened by a hotel front desk monster who told us there was a billing issue. Bleary eyed and tired but excited we met our friend at 11:30 in the morning at the hotel. Off we went to find our previously picked out lunch place BUBBA GUMPS. It was located in Navy Pier. It took a bit of work, but we found that too. After a delicious lunch enjoyed by three adults and three kids (her two and our Lily), we were off again. We walked around Navy Pier first, and then decided to head off to the zoo. We asked directions yet again (anyone notice a pattern here?)..and headed off to find a trolley to take us to a bus to take us to yet another bus to take us to the zoo. Saving you from the boring sit and wait ride and wait details...we finally found a nice young guy on a bus who told us (or my friends little boy Quenten that is) that he was headed to meet his wife. He told us when exactly to get off. He'd been there before, and told us to have a wonderful time. What a God send he was. We might have been riding the bus all day! We were never so happy to get to the zoo...and never so sad to see it closed in 30 minutes.
What we saw was wonderful, mind you, but I missed the giraffes, my favorites.
We truly truly enjoyed our time there, and our time with our friend...but our travels did make me think...
In this world we will receive MANY directions, from MANY sources. Everyone thinks they know HOW you should get there, what you should do, and where you should go. They all have "maps" to shove at us, books to read, advice to give, etc. If we listened to all of them, we would be wandering around in search of the right answer forever. We would miss the beauty of what we set out to see to begin with all because we were too busy searching, wandering, and hoping the next person knows.
The secret? Ask the one who KNOWS. Ask the one, that built each path, and walked before us. Ask the one, who knows where we have already been, where we want to be, and most importantly where we NEED to be. He knows where we will end up, and each step we will take. He knew long before we ever took our first breath. He even gave us a map. Its His Holy Word the Bible. It tells us the how to and the where to' and the how to. He doesn't give it to us, and then leave us to wander hoping we understand..oh no. For if we TRULY trust Him, and we put our hand in HIS...He will take us there Himself. He'll tell us when we are done. He knows where our "zoo' is. And when we reach our final destination...the place we have traveled so long to get to, I can guarantee, we won't see a sign that says closes in 30 minutes. Oh now. we can stay forever!
Someday I want to go back to Chicago. I want to see the zebras and the giraffes. But even more so then that...I long for the day, when I have reached the final stop, and the Lord is waiting. Heaven...oh I can't wait. I wonder if heaven has giraffes?
p.s Hey Nex!!!! To the LEFT next time.
Ahem...well we were sort of. We DID arrive in Chicago safely. Finding the hotel room..not so easy. We stopped and asked for directions from a nice police man (who told us our tire on the other side of the car was going flat). He was wrong about the tire, AND the directions. He sent us 30 min the wrong direction. An half an hour later we asked yet another policeman for directions. He too sent us on a wild goose chase. I was beginning to think this was a game they play with lost people from Michigan. They must have been radioing each other laughing at these poor people from Michigan. We finally stopped at another hotel (a competition to the one we were going to LOL) and would you believe they told us just how to get there? Finally we were able to crash in our bed, at close to 4:00 in the morning. Three hours later, we were awakened by a hotel front desk monster who told us there was a billing issue. Bleary eyed and tired but excited we met our friend at 11:30 in the morning at the hotel. Off we went to find our previously picked out lunch place BUBBA GUMPS. It was located in Navy Pier. It took a bit of work, but we found that too. After a delicious lunch enjoyed by three adults and three kids (her two and our Lily), we were off again. We walked around Navy Pier first, and then decided to head off to the zoo. We asked directions yet again (anyone notice a pattern here?)..and headed off to find a trolley to take us to a bus to take us to yet another bus to take us to the zoo. Saving you from the boring sit and wait ride and wait details...we finally found a nice young guy on a bus who told us (or my friends little boy Quenten that is) that he was headed to meet his wife. He told us when exactly to get off. He'd been there before, and told us to have a wonderful time. What a God send he was. We might have been riding the bus all day! We were never so happy to get to the zoo...and never so sad to see it closed in 30 minutes.
What we saw was wonderful, mind you, but I missed the giraffes, my favorites.
We truly truly enjoyed our time there, and our time with our friend...but our travels did make me think...
In this world we will receive MANY directions, from MANY sources. Everyone thinks they know HOW you should get there, what you should do, and where you should go. They all have "maps" to shove at us, books to read, advice to give, etc. If we listened to all of them, we would be wandering around in search of the right answer forever. We would miss the beauty of what we set out to see to begin with all because we were too busy searching, wandering, and hoping the next person knows.
The secret? Ask the one who KNOWS. Ask the one, that built each path, and walked before us. Ask the one, who knows where we have already been, where we want to be, and most importantly where we NEED to be. He knows where we will end up, and each step we will take. He knew long before we ever took our first breath. He even gave us a map. Its His Holy Word the Bible. It tells us the how to and the where to' and the how to. He doesn't give it to us, and then leave us to wander hoping we understand..oh no. For if we TRULY trust Him, and we put our hand in HIS...He will take us there Himself. He'll tell us when we are done. He knows where our "zoo' is. And when we reach our final destination...the place we have traveled so long to get to, I can guarantee, we won't see a sign that says closes in 30 minutes. Oh now. we can stay forever!
Someday I want to go back to Chicago. I want to see the zebras and the giraffes. But even more so then that...I long for the day, when I have reached the final stop, and the Lord is waiting. Heaven...oh I can't wait. I wonder if heaven has giraffes?
p.s Hey Nex!!!! To the LEFT next time.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Ants but no picnic...
We have an ant infestation. I am not a bug lover. OF ANY KIND. However, they have decided that like me. Not quite sure what I did to deserve all the attention they have lavished upon me, but, I Wish I knew, so I wouldn't do it anymore.
Reason number 156, 678, that I would love to move. I keep finding cute little houses, that would be just right for our little family. Alas, money is tight, so I forced to pray for a miracle from the only ONE who truly gives them. After all, everything belongs to HIM. The weather, THESE ANTS (by the way God, you can keep them :), thanks for the little precious things, but I like them from a distance), and the house that we want. So I will wait on HIM.
I know HE is leading us somewhere. Right now, I feel like we are at a standstill. The ants scurry to and fro across my desk, hunting crumbs (and whatever else it is ants look for). I kind of wish I could talk to them. Ask them if they are ever concerned about where THEY are going..or if they just GO? Alas, I can't speak "ANTANESE". However, there is someone who I can talk to.
I guess, I need to learn, that it's not all in WHERE YOU ARE GOING, but in the WHO YOU ARE FOLLOWING!
By the way, anyone want to kill my ants? There is also a mouse under my sink cabinet. He sounds big. I HOPE, its only a mouse. I refuse to check, lest it be something worse. Cookies awarded to anyone brave enough.
Reason number 156, 678, that I would love to move. I keep finding cute little houses, that would be just right for our little family. Alas, money is tight, so I forced to pray for a miracle from the only ONE who truly gives them. After all, everything belongs to HIM. The weather, THESE ANTS (by the way God, you can keep them :), thanks for the little precious things, but I like them from a distance), and the house that we want. So I will wait on HIM.
I know HE is leading us somewhere. Right now, I feel like we are at a standstill. The ants scurry to and fro across my desk, hunting crumbs (and whatever else it is ants look for). I kind of wish I could talk to them. Ask them if they are ever concerned about where THEY are going..or if they just GO? Alas, I can't speak "ANTANESE". However, there is someone who I can talk to.
I guess, I need to learn, that it's not all in WHERE YOU ARE GOING, but in the WHO YOU ARE FOLLOWING!
By the way, anyone want to kill my ants? There is also a mouse under my sink cabinet. He sounds big. I HOPE, its only a mouse. I refuse to check, lest it be something worse. Cookies awarded to anyone brave enough.
Monday, April 14, 2008
6:00 all is well!
Baroooo Barooo...I remember that so well, from my book on tape of Daniel.
It's past 6:00 and all is well! The landlord is being patient with the rent. Isn't God great??? When we start to wonder just what God has planned, he lifts up His children with His blessings!
DH starts work at Walmart tomorrow. I know, not the most wonderful job out there...but to US...it's WONDERFUL..and we are filled with excitement about payday.
It's past 6:00 and all is well! The landlord is being patient with the rent. Isn't God great??? When we start to wonder just what God has planned, he lifts up His children with His blessings!
DH starts work at Walmart tomorrow. I know, not the most wonderful job out there...but to US...it's WONDERFUL..and we are filled with excitement about payday.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
In what so ever state.
I had it all planned out.
I would marry the perfect man. He would be gentle (ALWAYS), kind, and thoughtful. He would always open my car door, pull out my chair, and help me on with my coat...and NEVER forget. He would be a rich rancher/doctor/singer, who loved the Lord, was tall dark and incredibly handsome. He would want AT LEAST 13 children, 26 dogs, 12 cats, 14 rabbits, and of course larger farm/ranch animals. We would raise alpacas, horses, cattle, sheep and goats. We would also run our own Christian camp for disabled children. He would be a deacon in our church, and sing in the choir with me Of course he would ONLY work 10 hour days, and spend the rest of the day, just enjoying life with his family.. On weekends, we would drive to our cabin in the mountains. He would have a sense of humor, but be wise beyond his years, and know enough not to annoy me when i was having a bad day. When our babies were little, he would LOVE to get up in the middle of the night with them. Did I mention he liked to cook and clean, and did both well? He would be the kind of guy EVERY neighbor wants to live next to, children and animals would gravitate to him, and they would be welcome ANYTIME, in our large 10 bedroom house on the hill. He would love watching movies, and rarely watch sports. I would cook him fancy meals, and then go on evening strolls along the lake. We would walk with one another, in perfect Harmony with the Lord. And when we grew old, he would still be strong enough to carry my feeble and frail body to bed and we would read together till we turned off our lamps and went to sleep..
Of course, I was 12 at the time I planned this out, and little girls, have big dreams, but very little reality of the real world.
Well, THIS is reality.
I am wife to a man, who though a Christian, is far from perfect (just like myself). He often forgets my car door, never remembers to pull out my chair, but will help me on with my coat, when he remembers. He is gentle, but still has days, when we do not walk in agreement. On occasion he brings home flowers, but often forgets to take the garbage out. He doesn't sing in the choir (our church doesn't have one), in fact when God said make a joyful noise, he was referring to him. He is not much taller than me, and though I love him DEARLY...He would never be a handsome movie star to the rest of the world. Just the same, he is my husband John, and I love him.
He used to work at a car parts factory. Part time he is a sports official. Did I mention my strong dislike for all sports outside of the Olympics. I have the athletic ability of a two legged dog. My dear Husband loves to watch sports. If the TV is on, he has it tuned to sports. If we watch a movie, it generally has a sports theme. Did I mention, how little I like sports?
He is currently laid off from his factory job, and has just taken a new job at Walmart, at the cash register. We praise God for the job, in these trying times of Michigan's economy.
We live in a small 2 bedroom somewhat falling apart rented house, with a flooded basement. The Lady that lives upstairs smokes, and the smoke filters though to our part of the home. We live on a busy road, with no pretty lake, and no ranch. Our pets consist of two cats. Money is tight, and the food is never fancy. We are happy with crock pot pork chops, and look forward to pizza night. Right now we have an ant problem...and there is an electrical problem. The kitchen sink has a leak, and the landlord, has little hurry to fix it.
Our 13 children, is still stuck at ONE child. We praise the Lord for her. We were blessed beyond measure. Lily is our pride and our job. We trust that someday the Lord will add to that, but I don't think it will be 12 more at my age. Of course Sarah doubted too.
Our neighbors are friendly, but not social. We have never been to their house, and they have never been to ours. I really need to bake cookies and drop in.
We have no cabin at the mountains, and in fact have not taken a vacation in the four years we have been married.
Oh, and when we are old, DH will most likely not be able to carry me, since he can't carry me know, even though he has tried. I need to keep working on my diet.
But see, all of those things matter very little. My bible tells me, that whatever condition, I find myself, I must be content. Here there are leaky sinks, flooded basements, and dreams left unfulfilled. If we only hang on to what we think we should have, we will never be happy...and will always be left wanting more. The Lord says, NO MATTER WHAT...give thanks. People will let us down, but not the Lord. He supplies our needs, and we need to learn to REST in that. We can't rest, when we are wondering..what's next??? I am not saying to not dream. I think God gave us dreams for a reason. But when your dreams, stay just that...DREAMS..don't be sad, and long for more. Be content.
For we have salvation...and a promise. A promise that This is not where we stop. This is not the end. This isn't "That's all folks". IT DOES GET BETTER THAN THIS! Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, and maybe not even in this life time. However, when the day comes that I enter heaven, to see the Savior that I was created to be with...THAT is my home. This world is not. Our Father owns everything. It's HIS, and by inheritance it is ours. It's just a little while longer. This valley may not be what we dream it to be, but the shepherd, led us here for a reason...and rest that He knows what his Lambs need.
Are you content...and well rested?
I would marry the perfect man. He would be gentle (ALWAYS), kind, and thoughtful. He would always open my car door, pull out my chair, and help me on with my coat...and NEVER forget. He would be a rich rancher/doctor/singer, who loved the Lord, was tall dark and incredibly handsome. He would want AT LEAST 13 children, 26 dogs, 12 cats, 14 rabbits, and of course larger farm/ranch animals. We would raise alpacas, horses, cattle, sheep and goats. We would also run our own Christian camp for disabled children. He would be a deacon in our church, and sing in the choir with me Of course he would ONLY work 10 hour days, and spend the rest of the day, just enjoying life with his family.. On weekends, we would drive to our cabin in the mountains. He would have a sense of humor, but be wise beyond his years, and know enough not to annoy me when i was having a bad day. When our babies were little, he would LOVE to get up in the middle of the night with them. Did I mention he liked to cook and clean, and did both well? He would be the kind of guy EVERY neighbor wants to live next to, children and animals would gravitate to him, and they would be welcome ANYTIME, in our large 10 bedroom house on the hill. He would love watching movies, and rarely watch sports. I would cook him fancy meals, and then go on evening strolls along the lake. We would walk with one another, in perfect Harmony with the Lord. And when we grew old, he would still be strong enough to carry my feeble and frail body to bed and we would read together till we turned off our lamps and went to sleep..
Of course, I was 12 at the time I planned this out, and little girls, have big dreams, but very little reality of the real world.
Well, THIS is reality.
I am wife to a man, who though a Christian, is far from perfect (just like myself). He often forgets my car door, never remembers to pull out my chair, but will help me on with my coat, when he remembers. He is gentle, but still has days, when we do not walk in agreement. On occasion he brings home flowers, but often forgets to take the garbage out. He doesn't sing in the choir (our church doesn't have one), in fact when God said make a joyful noise, he was referring to him. He is not much taller than me, and though I love him DEARLY...He would never be a handsome movie star to the rest of the world. Just the same, he is my husband John, and I love him.
He used to work at a car parts factory. Part time he is a sports official. Did I mention my strong dislike for all sports outside of the Olympics. I have the athletic ability of a two legged dog. My dear Husband loves to watch sports. If the TV is on, he has it tuned to sports. If we watch a movie, it generally has a sports theme. Did I mention, how little I like sports?
He is currently laid off from his factory job, and has just taken a new job at Walmart, at the cash register. We praise God for the job, in these trying times of Michigan's economy.
We live in a small 2 bedroom somewhat falling apart rented house, with a flooded basement. The Lady that lives upstairs smokes, and the smoke filters though to our part of the home. We live on a busy road, with no pretty lake, and no ranch. Our pets consist of two cats. Money is tight, and the food is never fancy. We are happy with crock pot pork chops, and look forward to pizza night. Right now we have an ant problem...and there is an electrical problem. The kitchen sink has a leak, and the landlord, has little hurry to fix it.
Our 13 children, is still stuck at ONE child. We praise the Lord for her. We were blessed beyond measure. Lily is our pride and our job. We trust that someday the Lord will add to that, but I don't think it will be 12 more at my age. Of course Sarah doubted too.
Our neighbors are friendly, but not social. We have never been to their house, and they have never been to ours. I really need to bake cookies and drop in.
We have no cabin at the mountains, and in fact have not taken a vacation in the four years we have been married.
Oh, and when we are old, DH will most likely not be able to carry me, since he can't carry me know, even though he has tried. I need to keep working on my diet.
But see, all of those things matter very little. My bible tells me, that whatever condition, I find myself, I must be content. Here there are leaky sinks, flooded basements, and dreams left unfulfilled. If we only hang on to what we think we should have, we will never be happy...and will always be left wanting more. The Lord says, NO MATTER WHAT...give thanks. People will let us down, but not the Lord. He supplies our needs, and we need to learn to REST in that. We can't rest, when we are wondering..what's next??? I am not saying to not dream. I think God gave us dreams for a reason. But when your dreams, stay just that...DREAMS..don't be sad, and long for more. Be content.
For we have salvation...and a promise. A promise that This is not where we stop. This is not the end. This isn't "That's all folks". IT DOES GET BETTER THAN THIS! Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, and maybe not even in this life time. However, when the day comes that I enter heaven, to see the Savior that I was created to be with...THAT is my home. This world is not. Our Father owns everything. It's HIS, and by inheritance it is ours. It's just a little while longer. This valley may not be what we dream it to be, but the shepherd, led us here for a reason...and rest that He knows what his Lambs need.
Are you content...and well rested?
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Oragmi Squirrels, Funerals, and the Olympics..
Well, another day has passed, and it's still raining. I normally sit and watch Mr. Squirrelly in our yard, as he races about looking for whatever it is squirrels look for in the spring. Lately he has not shown up on my porch. I have a feeling, he met his demise, out on the busy road. I try not to look, and see about such things. As some of you know...I don't drive. I am a passenger full time, and don't get behind the wheel. You will honestly thank me for that. So do the squirrels. I tried my hand at getting my license, but was such a nervous driver, that it just didn't go very well. I am not a woman of physical talent. Never played a sport in school. Never chosen anything but LAST for kick ball. I have a dream, that someday I will be in the Olympics, but till they come up with some more sports that require, less...shall we say, coordination, I think I will only be watching it from my TV. My friends and have an idea, that we will gather umm, unfortunate squirrels, on the highways, and create a new sport of how far we can launch them. We hope they fly further than they ran. Of course, for fun, we would need squirrel funerals (how respectful of us) first. Viewing boxes and ALL!!!!!!!...
I also thought it would great if we had a sport where the participant, would run in a giant hamster ball. Can we say FUN?????? ..And if I fell over, least I wouldn't get hurt so badly.
My Aunt died this week. There will be no funeral. At first I felt sad, and that there would be no closure. But, then I remembered, that my Aunt would be in Heaven. She is walking, talking, and singing with Jesus. She is reunited with her family that has gone on before. There is no sadness, falling, bad drivers, or funerals to attend. There is no need for closure. I don't need to tell her goodbye, merely "See you soon"....Can't wait to get there too!
Oh...and Erin..and my fellow Olympic team...TO THE LEFT, TO THE LEFT!!!!!!!
I also thought it would great if we had a sport where the participant, would run in a giant hamster ball. Can we say FUN?????? ..And if I fell over, least I wouldn't get hurt so badly.
My Aunt died this week. There will be no funeral. At first I felt sad, and that there would be no closure. But, then I remembered, that my Aunt would be in Heaven. She is walking, talking, and singing with Jesus. She is reunited with her family that has gone on before. There is no sadness, falling, bad drivers, or funerals to attend. There is no need for closure. I don't need to tell her goodbye, merely "See you soon"....Can't wait to get there too!
Oh...and Erin..and my fellow Olympic team...TO THE LEFT, TO THE LEFT!!!!!!!
Growing out my hair...
I really want to grow my hair out. It used to be long enough to sit on. Then I had it shoulder length. Not long after I had Lily, I got "itchy for Change" (as if a baby is not enough)...and Went drastic and cut it all off. Now, I once again, am bored with it..and am wanting to grow it out. So comes the in between process, where people wonder, just what is wrong with you, and your head. I am starting to look like a squirrel. Did I mention patience is not always my strong point?
Kittens and Blogs..
Well, I really know nothing about bells, or whistles on blogs, but I am working on it. While I am working, on it, I shall post my story of my morning alarm clock.
We have a new kitten in our house. A sweet little orange one, named Posey Pokey Toes. Yes, I know, a kitten with a middle and last name seems strange, but that's what it is none the less.
Until she gets used to our other Cat Maggie May, she is shut in our bedroom. This is normally just FINE, but it DOES provide a slight problem in the slumbering hours. This morning, I was trying to enjoy my last hours of sleep (it was about 5:00 am), when I felt something small sitting on me. I opened one eye to find a kittens nose in my face. Unamused, I shut my eyes and plopped her back on the floor. She took all of two seconds to scurry right back to her perch. Eyes still shut, I again, plopped her on the floor, with a whispered NO. We repeated the process a total of 16 times. I was beginning to lose patience (not to mention sleep). No amount of repeated removing of Posey, convinced her to stay out of trouble. I swatted her once, and that just seemed to amuse her. She has a nice warm bed to sleep in, food, water, and toys..Yet she prefers what she sees as her ultimate goal.
I finally gave up. I was now fully awake, and she seemed to be enjoying all the trouble she was in.
In the silence (except for her purring, and the whir of the fan in our room), it dawned on me. How often am I like this with the Lord. Stubborn, and set in my ways, I repeatedly, commit the same sins. I climb into trouble, lured by what I think I want. God in His mercy tries to steer me clear of it...yet I don't heed to his leading. Time and time, again, he gently chastens me, and I continue to desire, what I was never supposed to have. Sadly, sometimes, my consequences far exceed those of Posey. And Praise the Lord, HIS patience far exceed mine. And even, when I have fallen..He is there, picking me back up again.
I only pray that I will learn to stick closer to His side, and listen to His calling, and leading better...unlike Posey, who is attacking my feet right now..
We have a new kitten in our house. A sweet little orange one, named Posey Pokey Toes. Yes, I know, a kitten with a middle and last name seems strange, but that's what it is none the less.
Until she gets used to our other Cat Maggie May, she is shut in our bedroom. This is normally just FINE, but it DOES provide a slight problem in the slumbering hours. This morning, I was trying to enjoy my last hours of sleep (it was about 5:00 am), when I felt something small sitting on me. I opened one eye to find a kittens nose in my face. Unamused, I shut my eyes and plopped her back on the floor. She took all of two seconds to scurry right back to her perch. Eyes still shut, I again, plopped her on the floor, with a whispered NO. We repeated the process a total of 16 times. I was beginning to lose patience (not to mention sleep). No amount of repeated removing of Posey, convinced her to stay out of trouble. I swatted her once, and that just seemed to amuse her. She has a nice warm bed to sleep in, food, water, and toys..Yet she prefers what she sees as her ultimate goal.
I finally gave up. I was now fully awake, and she seemed to be enjoying all the trouble she was in.
In the silence (except for her purring, and the whir of the fan in our room), it dawned on me. How often am I like this with the Lord. Stubborn, and set in my ways, I repeatedly, commit the same sins. I climb into trouble, lured by what I think I want. God in His mercy tries to steer me clear of it...yet I don't heed to his leading. Time and time, again, he gently chastens me, and I continue to desire, what I was never supposed to have. Sadly, sometimes, my consequences far exceed those of Posey. And Praise the Lord, HIS patience far exceed mine. And even, when I have fallen..He is there, picking me back up again.
I only pray that I will learn to stick closer to His side, and listen to His calling, and leading better...unlike Posey, who is attacking my feet right now..
Friday, April 11, 2008
Well, here we Go...
If you are reading this, you must know me from somewhere. Perhaps it is through church, a web group, or you have the misfortune of being related to me (smile). I have no claim to fame, to pull you here. I have left no Large Legacy, to make you come looking to see what I may have to say...but I DO have Jesus...and in the days, weeks, months, and Lord willing years, you will see my travel on this journey we call life, with HIM.
Along the way, you will notice, that my family travels with me. I guarantee that some days, there will be stories, that make you laugh. I am sure there will be stories, that make you think, And I am afraid there will be stories that make you cry too. Life has a way, of going that way. But if NOTHING else...I pray, that it will point you to the Shepherd that leads me through this valley...
Jesus.
Along the way, you will notice, that my family travels with me. I guarantee that some days, there will be stories, that make you laugh. I am sure there will be stories, that make you think, And I am afraid there will be stories that make you cry too. Life has a way, of going that way. But if NOTHING else...I pray, that it will point you to the Shepherd that leads me through this valley...
Jesus.
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