I'm pretty much sure that my parents are the only ones that read this blog... (Hi Mom) but after much prodding I shall update.
So I have completely lost keeping up with the 1,000 gifts this year. May got completely crazy with my birthday, end of school, missions trip to Louisiana, our anniversary, and now playing with my own three and three additional kids for the summer. There's not much time for "extras". We will be spending our summer playing, and splashing in the pool (I bought our family pool passes for the first time ever), and reading for the summer library program.
So that's my life. If I sat down I could easily count 100+ gifts to make up for the ones I've missed, but in actuality, every day is a blessing and I am so blessed to be used by God in just the everyday. God is so good- through the bad AND the good.
"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth
you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have
overcome the world." John 16:33
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Monday, April 22, 2013
Close at Heart
April 22: 3 Gifts Close
332. Coffee. And keeping the pot close to me on a Monday morning.
333. Technology. Keeping me close to family and friends.
334. Love. The close cuddles and requests to sit on my lap.
332. Coffee. And keeping the pot close to me on a Monday morning.
333. Technology. Keeping me close to family and friends.
334. Love. The close cuddles and requests to sit on my lap.
In Christ Alone
April 21: 3 Gifts found in Christ
329. Fellowship with other believers - even complete strangers and finding commonalities
330. Our Pastor. Love him- as a pastor and as a friend.
331. Rest. Even God rested on the 7thy day.
329. Fellowship with other believers - even complete strangers and finding commonalities
330. Our Pastor. Love him- as a pastor and as a friend.
331. Rest. Even God rested on the 7thy day.
I will hide Your words in my heart
April 20: A gift stacked, stashed, stilled.
326. Stacked: waffle topped with cheese, stacked with a cooked egg. Pure perfection.
327: Stashed: Pool passes bought and now stashed away for that last weekend in May when we can start using them
328: Stilled: "Still your heart and know that I am God."
326. Stacked: waffle topped with cheese, stacked with a cooked egg. Pure perfection.
327: Stashed: Pool passes bought and now stashed away for that last weekend in May when we can start using them
328: Stilled: "Still your heart and know that I am God."
Blessings squared
April 19: 3 Gifts Square
323. Computer monitors to teach cool tricks to my students
324. TVs to relax a hard week away
325. A little boy's room. That he cleaned. By himself.
323. Computer monitors to teach cool tricks to my students
324. TVs to relax a hard week away
325. A little boy's room. That he cleaned. By himself.
Stretching the Search
April 18: 3 Gifts Inherited
320. My no-fuss curly hair. Up easy and forget about it.
321. My love of music.
322. My love of nature.
(okay, so I know those last two aren't really inherited, but are learned things, but I also think we "inherit" our love of things)
320. My no-fuss curly hair. Up easy and forget about it.
321. My love of music.
322. My love of nature.
(okay, so I know those last two aren't really inherited, but are learned things, but I also think we "inherit" our love of things)
Bind Us Together
April 17: 3 Gifts Woven Together
317. Family. And friends who weave into your family making everyone seem knitted together.
218. Communities. Even in grief. Continued thoughts and prayers of and for Boston.
319. Socks. Especially mix-matched ones. For my cold little tootsies.
317. Family. And friends who weave into your family making everyone seem knitted together.
218. Communities. Even in grief. Continued thoughts and prayers of and for Boston.
319. Socks. Especially mix-matched ones. For my cold little tootsies.
You mean I'm NOT Perfect?!
April 16: 3 Hard Eucharisteos
314. Testing. Payton is testing for 4th grade class placement. 4TH GRADE? Wow. And still- HOW?!
315. Long hours for Jason at work. I miss him when he can't join us for supper.
316. Having to discipline your son. A hard love shown tonight. Grounded him from TV for a week. First time I've ever had to truly punish him.
314. Testing. Payton is testing for 4th grade class placement. 4TH GRADE? Wow. And still- HOW?!
315. Long hours for Jason at work. I miss him when he can't join us for supper.
316. Having to discipline your son. A hard love shown tonight. Grounded him from TV for a week. First time I've ever had to truly punish him.
Fill My Cup
April 15: A Gift in a Bag, a Box, a Book
311. Bag: Groceries. For a fridge that was near-bare.
312. Box: The toy box overflowing with books- and how Ashleigh is starting to read them!
313. Book: Bible reading today was in Proverbs. When I came across 3:5-6 reminded me that I need not know all the answers. God's got my back. And I'm so blessed.
311. Bag: Groceries. For a fridge that was near-bare.
312. Box: The toy box overflowing with books- and how Ashleigh is starting to read them!
313. Book: Bible reading today was in Proverbs. When I came across 3:5-6 reminded me that I need not know all the answers. God's got my back. And I'm so blessed.
Up on the Housetop
April 14: 3 Gifts found Looking Up
308. Looking up the chimney to make sure the flue is open so we could have a fire in the fireplace. Chill in the air tonight...
309. Looking up to the top bunk to find a "missing" child... just sleeping away (at 7pm!!)
310. Looking up to heaven. The source of hope.
308. Looking up the chimney to make sure the flue is open so we could have a fire in the fireplace. Chill in the air tonight...
309. Looking up to the top bunk to find a "missing" child... just sleeping away (at 7pm!!)
310. Looking up to heaven. The source of hope.
Lightbulb
April 13: 3 Gifts Bright
305. SUNSHINE!!!!
306. A note from my favorite preschooler scribbled on a piece of neon paper
307. My husband. Who comes up with the most clever ideas. An old ceiling fan turned into a fun fair game? Yes. Only he could come up with that.
305. SUNSHINE!!!!
306. A note from my favorite preschooler scribbled on a piece of neon paper
307. My husband. Who comes up with the most clever ideas. An old ceiling fan turned into a fun fair game? Yes. Only he could come up with that.
Worn but not Out
April 12: 3 Gifts Worn
302. This body is weary. But it's Friday, so time for some rest.
303. My old favorite pair of gym shoes. Refound in the bottom of tthe shoe bucket.
304. Chocolate stains on a worn shirt means we took another trip to Vans!
302. This body is weary. But it's Friday, so time for some rest.
303. My old favorite pair of gym shoes. Refound in the bottom of tthe shoe bucket.
304. Chocolate stains on a worn shirt means we took another trip to Vans!
Spring is in the air... Somewhere
April 11: 3 Gifts Budding/Blooming
299. Well, it;s been raining a lot so the green plants will come...
300. Activity at our birdfeeder had blossomed this year- LOTS of goldfinches this year!!
301. I caught a glimpse of Ashleigh today and she is blossoming into quite the young lady. She looked different to me today. I think she is losing some of that "baby" in her face. She just appeared so gorwn up literally overnight.
299. Well, it;s been raining a lot so the green plants will come...
300. Activity at our birdfeeder had blossomed this year- LOTS of goldfinches this year!!
301. I caught a glimpse of Ashleigh today and she is blossoming into quite the young lady. She looked different to me today. I think she is losing some of that "baby" in her face. She just appeared so gorwn up literally overnight.
Fresh Air
April 10: 3 Gifts Opened Up
296. A new container of Feta cheese for my salad. Yum.
297. Traffic. Driving down to the city today to take the school kids to the Shedd Aquarium. I hate Chiacgo traffic- especially during morning "rush" hour... I think my van topped out today at 25...
298. My schedule. Just 3 more weeks of Awana and then my Wednesday nights will be free again for a bit.
296. A new container of Feta cheese for my salad. Yum.
297. Traffic. Driving down to the city today to take the school kids to the Shedd Aquarium. I hate Chiacgo traffic- especially during morning "rush" hour... I think my van topped out today at 25...
298. My schedule. Just 3 more weeks of Awana and then my Wednesday nights will be free again for a bit.
Sweet Nothings
April 9: A Gift Hiding, Held, Heard
293. Hiding: A clean house under the piles of stuff. Since our housekeepers are all under the age of 9.... I can't complain.
294. Held: My children. I love how loving they are.
295. Heard: "I love you" whispered in my ear as my husband and I crash after a long day. Almost 11 years together. That never gets old.
293. Hiding: A clean house under the piles of stuff. Since our housekeepers are all under the age of 9.... I can't complain.
294. Held: My children. I love how loving they are.
295. Heard: "I love you" whispered in my ear as my husband and I crash after a long day. Almost 11 years together. That never gets old.
I'm awake. I'm Alive
April 8: 3 Gifts Rising Up
290. Independent children. Morning routine: Get up, get cereal, turn on TV, wait for mom to be ready and leave for school. (When did my children grow so big?!)
291. Buds of plants- may spring finally be here?
292. Laundry piles. Loads and loads I have fallen behind on... But most of these clothes were given to us. So saying we are blessed with HEAPS of clothes I guess is a good thing.
290. Independent children. Morning routine: Get up, get cereal, turn on TV, wait for mom to be ready and leave for school. (When did my children grow so big?!)
291. Buds of plants- may spring finally be here?
292. Laundry piles. Loads and loads I have fallen behind on... But most of these clothes were given to us. So saying we are blessed with HEAPS of clothes I guess is a good thing.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Payton
2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone who is in Christ he is a new creation; old things has passed away behold all things have become new.
(Payton had to practice using my laptop for online testing at school as he prepares for 4th grade... so I had him type out a verse he has been working on for Awana)
(Payton had to practice using my laptop for online testing at school as he prepares for 4th grade... so I had him type out a verse he has been working on for Awana)
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Breathe
April 7: 3 Gifts Waited For
287. A day of rest
288. A coffee date with a friend
289. A quiet night with my husband
287. A day of rest
288. A coffee date with a friend
289. A quiet night with my husband
Bonds
April 6: 3 Gifts Nailed Together
284. Family bonds.
285. A farm- ripped apart in sadness and mourning of a father, but the home stands gathered together by memories.
286. Redeeming love.
284. Family bonds.
285. A farm- ripped apart in sadness and mourning of a father, but the home stands gathered together by memories.
286. Redeeming love.
Time for Grace
April 5: 3 Gifts at 11am, 2pm, and 6pm
281. 11am: My young Bible class
282. 2pm: a quiet sound booth setting up video for Sunday worship. Happy to serve.
283. 6pm: a quiet house. 3 kids I babysit gone home and my 3 watching a movie.
281. 11am: My young Bible class
282. 2pm: a quiet sound booth setting up video for Sunday worship. Happy to serve.
283. 6pm: a quiet house. 3 kids I babysit gone home and my 3 watching a movie.
Reminders
April 4: 3 Gifts in His Word
278. The book of Esther: For this moment. In HIS Time
279. From my devotions: "When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized they were ordinary, unschooled men, they were astonished and took note that these men had been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13 NIV). Oh, let it be so noted with my life ... my words ... my love for those who love me ... and even more, my love for those who don't. I have been with Jesus. I love like He loves. Because He is the source of all love.
280. "Who perceives his unintentional sins? Cleanse me from my hidden faults." Psalm 19:12
278. The book of Esther: For this moment. In HIS Time
279. From my devotions: "When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized they were ordinary, unschooled men, they were astonished and took note that these men had been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13 NIV). Oh, let it be so noted with my life ... my words ... my love for those who love me ... and even more, my love for those who don't. I have been with Jesus. I love like He loves. Because He is the source of all love.
280. "Who perceives his unintentional sins? Cleanse me from my hidden faults." Psalm 19:12
Sur-Prise!!
April 3: 3 Gifts Surprisingly Found
275. A bag of chocolates left on my desk
276. A thank you from a surprising source. Often when we are just "going through the motions" we are surprised by who we touch when we're not even trying
277. Random kisses. Some kids ask parents to read another story... mine ask for more kisses. Can do.
275. A bag of chocolates left on my desk
276. A thank you from a surprising source. Often when we are just "going through the motions" we are surprised by who we touch when we're not even trying
277. Random kisses. Some kids ask parents to read another story... mine ask for more kisses. Can do.
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
White as snow
April 2: 3 Gifts White
272. A white board with three simple words: Cheap Sheep Soup (fun tongue twister -- creating lots of laughs in my classroom today)
273. Glue. Everywhere. Fun? I love kids art projects.
274. Salt. Wow. Our water is NASTY without it!!!
272. A white board with three simple words: Cheap Sheep Soup (fun tongue twister -- creating lots of laughs in my classroom today)
273. Glue. Everywhere. Fun? I love kids art projects.
274. Salt. Wow. Our water is NASTY without it!!!
Round and Around
April 1: 3 Gifts Round
269. Ham Balls.
270. The PROGRAM button on my new coffeemaker- fresh coffee ready for me in the morning! A crazy thankfulness gift, but one that I am getting spoiled with.
271. Memories. All these memories that stay around in our minds. Tonight specifically I'm thankful for life-long friends and am praying for one family in particular tonight upon the news of the sudden passing of their father. I'm thankful that memories stay with us and that their comfort can be that he will be "round" them always.
269. Ham Balls.
270. The PROGRAM button on my new coffeemaker- fresh coffee ready for me in the morning! A crazy thankfulness gift, but one that I am getting spoiled with.
271. Memories. All these memories that stay around in our minds. Tonight specifically I'm thankful for life-long friends and am praying for one family in particular tonight upon the news of the sudden passing of their father. I'm thankful that memories stay with us and that their comfort can be that he will be "round" them always.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Holding On
March 31: A gift Heard, Held, Hoped For
266. Heard- As much as I hate taking the spotlight, I received many congratulations after signing for special music toady. Glad I can touch people with my interest.
267. Held- Holding to the promise that our RISEN King will one day return again.
268. Hoped For- Spent the weekend with Jason's brother and his girlfriend. She is so sweet we hope that Jacob has indeed found his lifetime happiness.
266. Heard- As much as I hate taking the spotlight, I received many congratulations after signing for special music toady. Glad I can touch people with my interest.
267. Held- Holding to the promise that our RISEN King will one day return again.
268. Hoped For- Spent the weekend with Jason's brother and his girlfriend. She is so sweet we hope that Jacob has indeed found his lifetime happiness.
Discoveries
March 30: 3 Gifts Uncovered
263. A beautiful day. The earth is finally taking off winter's coat.
264. Uncovered Discovery- what I thought would be another restaurant I could not eat at turns out to be AMAZING!! Thanking our guest and friend for her suggestion!
265. Mystery box with 3 beautiful Disney prints for the playroom wall- in a pile of stuff left at the church doors.
263. A beautiful day. The earth is finally taking off winter's coat.
264. Uncovered Discovery- what I thought would be another restaurant I could not eat at turns out to be AMAZING!! Thanking our guest and friend for her suggestion!
265. Mystery box with 3 beautiful Disney prints for the playroom wall- in a pile of stuff left at the church doors.
Can I get an Amen?!
March 29: 3 Gifts of His Promises
260. He is with me
261. He will never leave me
262. He will not forsake me
Amen to that!
260. He is with me
261. He will never leave me
262. He will not forsake me
Amen to that!
Mix It Up
March 28: 3 Gifts Entwined
257. Eggs and sugar and vinegar and salt mixed up for COOKIES!!
258. Wrapped up in a blanket with my three little loves
259. mixing cleaning with play. oh the possibilities and how things actually get DONE!!
257. Eggs and sugar and vinegar and salt mixed up for COOKIES!!
258. Wrapped up in a blanket with my three little loves
259. mixing cleaning with play. oh the possibilities and how things actually get DONE!!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Thankful
March 27: 3 Gifts Redeemed
254. A girls sleepover request. Shipped the girls off and enjoyed some mom & son time.
255. Gift certificate for frozen custard. And the bonus: flavor of the day was Rocky Road. Oh. So. Yum.
256. Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.
254. A girls sleepover request. Shipped the girls off and enjoyed some mom & son time.
255. Gift certificate for frozen custard. And the bonus: flavor of the day was Rocky Road. Oh. So. Yum.
256. Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.
Going, going...
March 26: 3 Gifts Almost Gone
251. Stenciled roses on the bathroom walls at church. And painting over the last one... though each time I look I swear I still see them...
252. Vanilla ice cream on top of chocolate pudding. The ice cream is almost gone but I HAVE to scrape the last morsel out because chocolate pudding isn't the same without it.
253. Winter. Might is be gone? I do hope so. At least for another 9 months or so.
251. Stenciled roses on the bathroom walls at church. And painting over the last one... though each time I look I swear I still see them...
252. Vanilla ice cream on top of chocolate pudding. The ice cream is almost gone but I HAVE to scrape the last morsel out because chocolate pudding isn't the same without it.
253. Winter. Might is be gone? I do hope so. At least for another 9 months or so.
Sing with me
March 25: A gift sung, written, painted
248. Sung: Les Mis. on DVD. And playing it loud enough to drown out my own voice. :)
249. Written: 10:18 am. The time on my wall clock when I work up this morning. I love spring break.
250. Painted: Bathroom walls refurbished. Clean. Ah. I love the smell of paint.
248. Sung: Les Mis. on DVD. And playing it loud enough to drown out my own voice. :)
249. Written: 10:18 am. The time on my wall clock when I work up this morning. I love spring break.
250. Painted: Bathroom walls refurbished. Clean. Ah. I love the smell of paint.
Simply put.
March 24: 3 Gifts Spoken
245. I love you.
246. Mom, you're so pretty.
247. Jesus loves me. Most theologically impactful statement. Ever.
245. I love you.
246. Mom, you're so pretty.
247. Jesus loves me. Most theologically impactful statement. Ever.
Saturday, March 23, 2013
With Love and Strength
March 23: 3 gifts found in women today
242. the bright eyes and smiles of my girls- the women of tomorrow
243. my best friend who even despite distance and time our friendship remains strong and I know I can puck up the phone at any moment and can pick up like there hasn't been anything between us ever
244. the strength and love of a single mom working so hard to raise her daughter
242. the bright eyes and smiles of my girls- the women of tomorrow
243. my best friend who even despite distance and time our friendship remains strong and I know I can puck up the phone at any moment and can pick up like there hasn't been anything between us ever
244. the strength and love of a single mom working so hard to raise her daughter
Mercy
March 22: 3 Gifts found in His Word
Generic references to the many wonderful promises of love and grace and mercy. Passages that have brought me through many rough patches.
239. Jude 21
240. John 3:16
241. Psalm 150
Generic references to the many wonderful promises of love and grace and mercy. Passages that have brought me through many rough patches.
239. Jude 21
240. John 3:16
241. Psalm 150
Happy tummy
March 21: A gift salty, sweet, just right.
236. Salty. Olives. And now I've taught my daughters to enjoy the savory goodness. Priceless.
237. Sweet. Banana Laffy Taffy. And how my children will pick them out for me when they see them in a candy bucket and save them out for me. I have them well trained.
238. Just right. String cheese. Hmmmm. Protein.
236. Salty. Olives. And now I've taught my daughters to enjoy the savory goodness. Priceless.
237. Sweet. Banana Laffy Taffy. And how my children will pick them out for me when they see them in a candy bucket and save them out for me. I have them well trained.
238. Just right. String cheese. Hmmmm. Protein.
Laughter
March 20: 3 Gifts That Made You Laugh
233. Duck Dynasty. I love this show.
234. My husband. One of the reasons I married him. He makes me laugh.
235. My 4 year old's vocabulary. Seriously. What 4 year old says she "needs a bandage"?!
233. Duck Dynasty. I love this show.
234. My husband. One of the reasons I married him. He makes me laugh.
235. My 4 year old's vocabulary. Seriously. What 4 year old says she "needs a bandage"?!
What the doctor ordered
March 19: 3 Gifts Eaten
230. Toasted Tacos. Hard shell tacos taken one step further and "toasted" in the oven. A great discovery and my new favorite food.
231. Cream Cheese and crackers. A favorite snack.
232. A literal CASE of bottled Dr Pepper. Okay, so this is not eaten- but gotta wash down what WAS eaten... ;)
230. Toasted Tacos. Hard shell tacos taken one step further and "toasted" in the oven. A great discovery and my new favorite food.
231. Cream Cheese and crackers. A favorite snack.
232. A literal CASE of bottled Dr Pepper. Okay, so this is not eaten- but gotta wash down what WAS eaten... ;)
Friday, March 22, 2013
Red Rover
March 18: 3 Gifts Red
227. My red travel coffee mug. Ah. Warm happiness.
228. Cardinal. Yep. Spotted my first of the season!
229. Pillows on my couch and laying my little ones head down upon one after I carried her home from school-- still sleeping.
227. My red travel coffee mug. Ah. Warm happiness.
228. Cardinal. Yep. Spotted my first of the season!
229. Pillows on my couch and laying my little ones head down upon one after I carried her home from school-- still sleeping.
Spring Cleaning
March 17: A Gift Turned, Folded, Hung
224. Turned a store bought pound cake into a pretty yummy dessert today for the church potluck
225. Folded basket of laundry. Why do I wait so long and let the baskets fill up so high?!
226. Hung up ceiling tiles COMING DOWN!! Yeah for new found ceiling height in the basement!
224. Turned a store bought pound cake into a pretty yummy dessert today for the church potluck
225. Folded basket of laundry. Why do I wait so long and let the baskets fill up so high?!
226. Hung up ceiling tiles COMING DOWN!! Yeah for new found ceiling height in the basement!
Rock and a Hard Place
March 16: 3 Hard Eucharisteos
221. Being sick. Thankful for the "down time", but hate feeling useless (don't worry mom-- it's just a head cold...)
222. The coins in the coin jar. And counting them to buy toilet paper.
223. Those "I choose not to obey mom" moments... and having to discipline my children
221. Being sick. Thankful for the "down time", but hate feeling useless (don't worry mom-- it's just a head cold...)
222. The coins in the coin jar. And counting them to buy toilet paper.
223. Those "I choose not to obey mom" moments... and having to discipline my children
Got to give it away
March 15: 3 Gifts Given Away
218. My time. Given to my children, my job, my students and so on. And never enough time in the day...
219. Gifts for my secret sister.
220. Love. So many blessings, I can't keep the love inside.
218. My time. Given to my children, my job, my students and so on. And never enough time in the day...
219. Gifts for my secret sister.
220. Love. So many blessings, I can't keep the love inside.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Shhh!! Mommy's sleeping? Ha.
March 14: 3 Gifts Found in Silence
Silence? In MY house? Hmmmm.....
215. God. Always present- in the crazy times, hard times, loud times, and quiet moments.
216. The quietest my house gets is my morning shower... my prayer time.
217. The house may be full of laughter and a silent moment hard to find, but I am thankful for those giggles and noises as I know my house and my life is blessed. Blessed are those whose house is filled with laughter.
Silence? In MY house? Hmmmm.....
215. God. Always present- in the crazy times, hard times, loud times, and quiet moments.
216. The quietest my house gets is my morning shower... my prayer time.
217. The house may be full of laughter and a silent moment hard to find, but I am thankful for those giggles and noises as I know my house and my life is blessed. Blessed are those whose house is filled with laughter.
Tick Tock
March 13: 3 Gifts Round
212. Birthdays come 'round once a year- and today we celebrated one big-eyed sweetheart I am lucky enough to call my daughter. Happy birthday Ashleigh!
213. Kids song CD that makes me smile everytime I hear it.
214. The circles of arms my children wrap around me as they say I love you. Can never get enough hugs from them!
212. Birthdays come 'round once a year- and today we celebrated one big-eyed sweetheart I am lucky enough to call my daughter. Happy birthday Ashleigh!
213. Kids song CD that makes me smile everytime I hear it.
214. The circles of arms my children wrap around me as they say I love you. Can never get enough hugs from them!
Brought to you by the letter W
March 12: A gift in Wind, Water, White
209. Wind- A cold day today. So I threw some wood in the fireplace and enjoyed the warm air circulating through my house of a good crackling fire.
210. Water- Two girls giggling together in the bathtub.
211. White- My white throw that lays atop our bed. Jason is warm blooded even in bed, so I use it to stay toasty at night. I'm ready for spring to come.
209. Wind- A cold day today. So I threw some wood in the fireplace and enjoyed the warm air circulating through my house of a good crackling fire.
210. Water- Two girls giggling together in the bathtub.
211. White- My white throw that lays atop our bed. Jason is warm blooded even in bed, so I use it to stay toasty at night. I'm ready for spring to come.
Read to Me!
March 11: 3 Gifts Read
206. Ashleigh reading. It may be "Mag sat on the bag" but it's a beginning of a lifetime of reading and learning!
207. Payton said he has "nothing" to read tonight, so I told him to find SOMETHING. I caught him later reading... his Bible. On his own. No push. So glad his something comes with such rewards. God's word never comes back void.
208. My own devotions. 1 Peter 1:3-4. A priceless inheritance. Love the reminder for my heavenly home.
206. Ashleigh reading. It may be "Mag sat on the bag" but it's a beginning of a lifetime of reading and learning!
207. Payton said he has "nothing" to read tonight, so I told him to find SOMETHING. I caught him later reading... his Bible. On his own. No push. So glad his something comes with such rewards. God's word never comes back void.
208. My own devotions. 1 Peter 1:3-4. A priceless inheritance. Love the reminder for my heavenly home.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
A Special Creation
March 9: 3 Gifts Carved
200. Carved time in the weekend to make a trip out to visit with family and celebrate my brother's promotion.
201. Carved snow piles as Payton enjoyed sledding for the first time.
202. The path God has carved in my life and being able to reflect on just how I have seen His work in me.
200. Carved time in the weekend to make a trip out to visit with family and celebrate my brother's promotion.
201. Carved snow piles as Payton enjoyed sledding for the first time.
202. The path God has carved in my life and being able to reflect on just how I have seen His work in me.
A Joyful noise
March 8: 3 Gifts Loud
197. Laughter. While cleaning the bedroom this afternoon, I asked Adi to bring me the pledge. She walked back into my room carrying our American flag. After I gave her a sweet kiss on the head, I laughed SO hard!
198. A loud SMACK as a snowball hit our house from an impromptu snowball fight between Payton and I on the walk back home from school.
199. A loud praise as the kids sang in chapel today.
197. Laughter. While cleaning the bedroom this afternoon, I asked Adi to bring me the pledge. She walked back into my room carrying our American flag. After I gave her a sweet kiss on the head, I laughed SO hard!
198. A loud SMACK as a snowball hit our house from an impromptu snowball fight between Payton and I on the walk back home from school.
199. A loud praise as the kids sang in chapel today.
Thankful for everything... including the kitchen sink
March 8: 3 Gifts in the Kitchen
194. Stockpile of canned goods. You never know when you need a can of stewed tomatoes (say, when you want chili for supper...)
195. Chores. Payton saw that the garbage was full and emptied it WITHOUT BEING TOLD
196. Reading charts on the fridge. Ashleigh is reading simple words now and every page she reads on her own she is getting a sticker to add up to a reward at the end of school.
194. Stockpile of canned goods. You never know when you need a can of stewed tomatoes (say, when you want chili for supper...)
195. Chores. Payton saw that the garbage was full and emptied it WITHOUT BEING TOLD
196. Reading charts on the fridge. Ashleigh is reading simple words now and every page she reads on her own she is getting a sticker to add up to a reward at the end of school.
An Ode to Duct Tape
March 6: A Gift Bent, Broken, Beautiful
When something breaks, it's just common sense to grab the duct tape and make it work...
191. Bent- Bend and play in the lesson plans. And a nice mental break for the kids. What to do when the gym is set up for the Awana fair and it's too cold to go outside? Play Mexican Train Dominoes of course!!
192. Broken- A broken body. I was reminded today in my devotions that Christ didn't WANT to go to the cross, but he found it necessary to die for ME. He willingly would have gone to the cross JUST for me. This gift is just so amazing.
193. Beautiful- the mercy that is new every day.
When something breaks, it's just common sense to grab the duct tape and make it work...
191. Bent- Bend and play in the lesson plans. And a nice mental break for the kids. What to do when the gym is set up for the Awana fair and it's too cold to go outside? Play Mexican Train Dominoes of course!!
192. Broken- A broken body. I was reminded today in my devotions that Christ didn't WANT to go to the cross, but he found it necessary to die for ME. He willingly would have gone to the cross JUST for me. This gift is just so amazing.
193. Beautiful- the mercy that is new every day.
Come find me!
March 5: 3 Gifts Found
188. Time. A snow day from school means a free day with my children.
189. Giggling children playing "hide" and seek. They can only hide well enough to start giggling when they hear your footsteps.
190. The snowblower. SO much easier to clear the driveway of 10 inches of snow with power.
188. Time. A snow day from school means a free day with my children.
189. Giggling children playing "hide" and seek. They can only hide well enough to start giggling when they hear your footsteps.
190. The snowblower. SO much easier to clear the driveway of 10 inches of snow with power.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Do I really?
March 4: 3 Gifts hard to give thanks for
185. Bills. Necessity I know as it keeps life" running. But they are hard to get knowing we are always living pinch to pinch.
186. Headaches. Life telling me to slow down.
187. Students missing homework assignments. I hate having to play mean but I know it's not my fault and I also know they have to learn responsibility.
185. Bills. Necessity I know as it keeps life" running. But they are hard to get knowing we are always living pinch to pinch.
186. Headaches. Life telling me to slow down.
187. Students missing homework assignments. I hate having to play mean but I know it's not my fault and I also know they have to learn responsibility.
No Matches Here
March 3: 3 Gifts Wore
182. Mismatched socks. Makes me smile. And anyway- who wants to waste precious moments of life matching socks?!
183. A splinter on the palm as we loaded firewood into our house for a nice cozy fire.
184. Wearing an Edwards shirt ans watching him FLIP OUT after winning the race! I loves me my NASCAR.
182. Mismatched socks. Makes me smile. And anyway- who wants to waste precious moments of life matching socks?!
183. A splinter on the palm as we loaded firewood into our house for a nice cozy fire.
184. Wearing an Edwards shirt ans watching him FLIP OUT after winning the race! I loves me my NASCAR.
Make mine GREEN!
March 2: 3 Gifts Green
179. Eggs & Ham. Okay. So they aren't NATURALLY green, but they were for Dr. Seuss' birthday! :)
180. Kermit. Anf the joy my kids find in the Muppets- much like I did when I was a child (ok. I admit it. I STILL love the Muppets.
181. Cash. In hand. And just enough for the cart of groceries we bought today.
179. Eggs & Ham. Okay. So they aren't NATURALLY green, but they were for Dr. Seuss' birthday! :)
180. Kermit. Anf the joy my kids find in the Muppets- much like I did when I was a child (ok. I admit it. I STILL love the Muppets.
181. Cash. In hand. And just enough for the cart of groceries we bought today.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Woo Hoo!
March 1: 3 Gifts at 3pm
176. The end of the school bell- the end of the 3rd quarter and the start of the weekend with no plans!
177. 3rd quarter grades DONE by the literal end of the 3rd quarter.
178. A drink of Vanilla Dr Pepper. Okay. It's silly. But this drink also symbolizes the 12 kids I also got to take to Thorntons for their hard work this quarter. They complete their homework and they get treated. All for my running for teacher of the year... :)
176. The end of the school bell- the end of the 3rd quarter and the start of the weekend with no plans!
177. 3rd quarter grades DONE by the literal end of the 3rd quarter.
178. A drink of Vanilla Dr Pepper. Okay. It's silly. But this drink also symbolizes the 12 kids I also got to take to Thorntons for their hard work this quarter. They complete their homework and they get treated. All for my running for teacher of the year... :)
Past and Future
February 28: 3 Gifts From the Past - That Help You Trust the Future
173. My Bible. Given to me by previous students.
174. Lifelong friends. And knowing that they will be there for a lifetime.
175. My children. 3 priceless gifts. Praying for light and salvation in the world they will know as they grow.
173. My Bible. Given to me by previous students.
174. Lifelong friends. And knowing that they will be there for a lifetime.
175. My children. 3 priceless gifts. Praying for light and salvation in the world they will know as they grow.
Ugly-Beautiful
February 27: Ugly-Beautiful Gifts
170. Those "What Is It?" drawings from your children... not sure what they are drawing, but they are expressing their creativity and love so... Thank You.
171. The signs of a home of creative children: Sculptures made from K'nex. Everywhere. But I'm glad they would rather have plastic building structures than an hour in front of the TV.
172. The messy faces of children enjoying chocolate pudding.
170. Those "What Is It?" drawings from your children... not sure what they are drawing, but they are expressing their creativity and love so... Thank You.
171. The signs of a home of creative children: Sculptures made from K'nex. Everywhere. But I'm glad they would rather have plastic building structures than an hour in front of the TV.
172. The messy faces of children enjoying chocolate pudding.
Our Reflections
February 26: 3 Gifts Seen as Reflections
Children are reflections of their parents, so this makes today's gifts easy:
167. Payton
168. Ashleigh
169. Addison
Children are reflections of their parents, so this makes today's gifts easy:
167. Payton
168. Ashleigh
169. Addison
Monday, February 25, 2013
Never gets old
February 25: A gift worn-out, new, made-do
164. Worn-out- Hugs. Although worn, never get old.
165. New- God's mercies new every morning. Never tired of his fresh mercy falling upon me.
166. Made-do- The fail-safe of having kids play basketball in gym when someone forgot to do lesson plans over the unexpected 3 day weekend... (oops)
164. Worn-out- Hugs. Although worn, never get old.
165. New- God's mercies new every morning. Never tired of his fresh mercy falling upon me.
166. Made-do- The fail-safe of having kids play basketball in gym when someone forgot to do lesson plans over the unexpected 3 day weekend... (oops)
Up and at 'em
February 24: 3 Gifts before 11am
161. God's House and the fellowship found within
162. Cereal. Quick. Easy. Good.
163. News that the fans injured in yesterday's horrible accident at Daytona are going to be okay. So scary!
161. God's House and the fellowship found within
162. Cereal. Quick. Easy. Good.
163. News that the fans injured in yesterday's horrible accident at Daytona are going to be okay. So scary!
Sun Shine In
February 23: A gift of tin, glass, wood
158. Tin- A police badge. Heard news that my brother had been promoted to sergeant. So proud of him!
159. Glass- The beautiful front window letting in the sun's rays today... even if I didn't see them until after 10am today as I enjoyed a much-needed lazy morning.
160. Wood- that last box of wood from my parents burning in the fireplace. (And happy 60th birthday to my daddy!)
158. Tin- A police badge. Heard news that my brother had been promoted to sergeant. So proud of him!
159. Glass- The beautiful front window letting in the sun's rays today... even if I didn't see them until after 10am today as I enjoyed a much-needed lazy morning.
160. Wood- that last box of wood from my parents burning in the fireplace. (And happy 60th birthday to my daddy!)
What HE ordered
February 22: 3 Gifts that changed today
155. The snowfall that wasn't. We got about 3 inches. No ice. No blowing snow or bad roads. But with school already being called off the night before, instead I got a house full of warmth and laughter with 6 kids.
156. Some MAJOR work and progress on the new church website being made by my husband and I.
157. A well-timed devotional that changed some perspectives. Simply beautiful. I love when God places a devotional in my lap and HE opens to the page I need for that very moment.
155. The snowfall that wasn't. We got about 3 inches. No ice. No blowing snow or bad roads. But with school already being called off the night before, instead I got a house full of warmth and laughter with 6 kids.
156. Some MAJOR work and progress on the new church website being made by my husband and I.
157. A well-timed devotional that changed some perspectives. Simply beautiful. I love when God places a devotional in my lap and HE opens to the page I need for that very moment.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
White as Snow
February 21: 3 Gifts White
152. 2 white boxes delivered to our front porch filled with K'nex pieces for Payton. He has really taken off on these! He continues to amaze us with his projects.
153. Snow falling down - well, at least the threat of it - and school already being called off for tomorrow before supper is even on the table!
154. Washing. No matter how many times I screw up. I am still blameless in the eyes of my Savior.
152. 2 white boxes delivered to our front porch filled with K'nex pieces for Payton. He has really taken off on these! He continues to amaze us with his projects.
153. Snow falling down - well, at least the threat of it - and school already being called off for tomorrow before supper is even on the table!
154. Washing. No matter how many times I screw up. I am still blameless in the eyes of my Savior.
Rub a Dub Dub Thanks for the Grub!
February 20: A gift at breakfast, lunch, dinner
149. Breakfast- a fresh pot of coffee
150. Lunch- a "leftover" butterfinger that I laid claim to
151. Dinner- pizza and a movie
149. Breakfast- a fresh pot of coffee
150. Lunch- a "leftover" butterfinger that I laid claim to
151. Dinner- pizza and a movie
For I know the plans I have for you.
February 19: 3 Gifts that were "Plan B's"
146. While I don't do out and "make plans" each day especially during the school year, I live by living each day and doing what I can. Fly-by-nightly I guess you can say. But today we did finish our taxes, and that makes making plans for our mission trip to Angola Prison in May a doable trip again this year. It's not a Plan B, but it was one we were wondering if we'd be able to do.
147. Family tradition in the summers had been going to the state fair and after the events of family last year with siblings moving out of country etc we didn't go last year but both missed it. So this summer we made a Plan B to go back again- even if it is just our family of 5.
148. the ability to fly-by-night on lessons plans that don't go exactly as planned...
146. While I don't do out and "make plans" each day especially during the school year, I live by living each day and doing what I can. Fly-by-nightly I guess you can say. But today we did finish our taxes, and that makes making plans for our mission trip to Angola Prison in May a doable trip again this year. It's not a Plan B, but it was one we were wondering if we'd be able to do.
147. Family tradition in the summers had been going to the state fair and after the events of family last year with siblings moving out of country etc we didn't go last year but both missed it. So this summer we made a Plan B to go back again- even if it is just our family of 5.
148. the ability to fly-by-night on lessons plans that don't go exactly as planned...
Write Your name on my heart
February 18: 3 Gifts on Paper
143. love notes from my Savior
144. Belated sappy love card from my husband
145. note from a friend reminding me they are praying for me
143. love notes from my Savior
144. Belated sappy love card from my husband
145. note from a friend reminding me they are praying for me
Monday, February 18, 2013
In His Service
February 17: 3 Gifts found Giving/Serving
140. Receiving a manuscript to see about making a dream come true
141. Serving college kids lunch and the fellowship we enjoy
142. Giving birthday kisses to my FOUR year old daughter!!
140. Receiving a manuscript to see about making a dream come true
141. Serving college kids lunch and the fellowship we enjoy
142. Giving birthday kisses to my FOUR year old daughter!!
Even in the Dark
February 16: 3 Gifts in Shadows
137. late night laughter with the girls and 3 friends staying overnight (meant little sleep for mommy- but knowing the girls had fun that's all that matters)
138. serving "in the shadows" behind the scenes at church - serving our God and his church while not being in the spotlight
139. sitting in the back of a favorite custard shop savoring the time and the moments celebrating tomorrow's birthday girl
137. late night laughter with the girls and 3 friends staying overnight (meant little sleep for mommy- but knowing the girls had fun that's all that matters)
138. serving "in the shadows" behind the scenes at church - serving our God and his church while not being in the spotlight
139. sitting in the back of a favorite custard shop savoring the time and the moments celebrating tomorrow's birthday girl
Lost Get Found
February 15: A gift in losing, making, finding something
134. Losing- lost power for about 45 minutes tonight but once the kids had flashlights they had fun playing flashlight tag
135. Making-Payton made a DVD holder out of K'nex tonight. Future Engineer?
136. Finding Something- Finding another reason to love my husband. It is true you fall in love a little more each day.
134. Losing- lost power for about 45 minutes tonight but once the kids had flashlights they had fun playing flashlight tag
135. Making-Payton made a DVD holder out of K'nex tonight. Future Engineer?
136. Finding Something- Finding another reason to love my husband. It is true you fall in love a little more each day.
Love in the Air
February 14: 3 ways you feel the love of God
131. in family
132. in friends
133. in "just the right scripture" at "just the right time"
131. in family
132. in friends
133. in "just the right scripture" at "just the right time"
Peek-A-Boo
February 13: 3 Gifts Behind a Door
128. Payton and his cleaned his room he cleaned ALL ON HIS OWN!
129. Teacher's devotions and prayer in the morning before school beings.
130. a truck door closing and then seeing THREE bouquets of flowers-- one for me and one for each of the girls.
128. Payton and his cleaned his room he cleaned ALL ON HIS OWN!
129. Teacher's devotions and prayer in the morning before school beings.
130. a truck door closing and then seeing THREE bouquets of flowers-- one for me and one for each of the girls.
Making it Hard
February 12: 3 Hard Eucharisteos
126. Goodbyes.
127. Grades. I hate giving students bad grades and making them re-do an assignment, but learning doesn't come by just getting by. Sometimes lessons are hard to learn, but necessary.
Definition from urban dictionary: A Greek word meaning thanksgiving, to be thankful. Envelopes the Greek root word charis meaning grace, and the derivative chara which is Greek for joy. "He took the bread, and knew it to be a gift and gave thanks." We too participate in eucharisteo in communion, and in life if we so choose.
125. In being un-rich. A rusted part of my van fell off today. It still drives fine but showing her age. Now sure it would be nice to get a nice beautiful new vehicle, but it's just not in the cards. I am thankful our money doesn't speak for us and that even in being poor, we are so very rich. There are so many things I WANT, but we have all that we need. Even if those needs require a bit of duct tape.126. Goodbyes.
127. Grades. I hate giving students bad grades and making them re-do an assignment, but learning doesn't come by just getting by. Sometimes lessons are hard to learn, but necessary.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Working Hard for the Money
February 11: 3 Gifts in Working
122. A hard day at school, but I count how blessed I am to be in the environment working to teach these young minds and hope to inspire them for the better.
123. Freelance design. To keep the degreed skills sharp and being able to get paid for playing.
124. Kids working to clean the house. So the mirror may be a bit streaked and a spot on the floor may have been missed, but they are trying their little hearts to try to keep the house nicer (and I love it when I say the reward is HAMBALLS for supper and that motivates them to help!!!)
122. A hard day at school, but I count how blessed I am to be in the environment working to teach these young minds and hope to inspire them for the better.
123. Freelance design. To keep the degreed skills sharp and being able to get paid for playing.
124. Kids working to clean the house. So the mirror may be a bit streaked and a spot on the floor may have been missed, but they are trying their little hearts to try to keep the house nicer (and I love it when I say the reward is HAMBALLS for supper and that motivates them to help!!!)
Laughter
February 10: 3 times you heard laughter today.
119. With a house of three little ones, this is not a hard grace to find. Giggles in the morning. I believe they were playing hide and seek. At 5 am. But they were happy. And it's Sunday. Let them laugh.
120. At lunch. Our favorite mexican son and Jason picking in fun at eachother. They make me smile.
121. In the evening. Watching some sill show. I don't even remember what it was. But it was funny. And we laughed. HARD.
119. With a house of three little ones, this is not a hard grace to find. Giggles in the morning. I believe they were playing hide and seek. At 5 am. But they were happy. And it's Sunday. Let them laugh.
120. At lunch. Our favorite mexican son and Jason picking in fun at eachother. They make me smile.
121. In the evening. Watching some sill show. I don't even remember what it was. But it was funny. And we laughed. HARD.
Surprise!
February 9: 3 Surprise Gifts- Unexpected Grace!
116. Tears. I thought I'd shed them all already. But there were tears. And there was a wonderful hand of a man I cherish ready to wipe them away. Healing.
117. Free movie code. Good for a laugh. And family bonding.
118. A call for a stop-over visit. 6 cousins take over the house!! Good laughter. Good times.
116. Tears. I thought I'd shed them all already. But there were tears. And there was a wonderful hand of a man I cherish ready to wipe them away. Healing.
117. Free movie code. Good for a laugh. And family bonding.
118. A call for a stop-over visit. 6 cousins take over the house!! Good laughter. Good times.
Ultimate physician
February 8: A gift broken, fixed, thrifted
113. broken- hearts. The upstairs of the church is filled with broken hearts today as we mourn the loss of a dear friend and father of 7. Though through the tears, there is hope. We mourn, but we still have hope. We know he is with his Savior and we are happy for him, but there are still a lot of tears. And hugs. And I love these kids.
114. fixed. Jason fixed our furnace tonight. A simple fix for him. But I'd be so lost without him. (and cold!!)
115. thrifted. Well, this one is easy. 99% of my wardrobe is thrifted. I grew up hating the thrift store and that I couldn't have the newest best clothes, but it's all surface. Now I love saving the money and that I can afford to get "new" clothes whenever I get tired of my old thrifted ones. Upcycle baby!!
113. broken- hearts. The upstairs of the church is filled with broken hearts today as we mourn the loss of a dear friend and father of 7. Though through the tears, there is hope. We mourn, but we still have hope. We know he is with his Savior and we are happy for him, but there are still a lot of tears. And hugs. And I love these kids.
114. fixed. Jason fixed our furnace tonight. A simple fix for him. But I'd be so lost without him. (and cold!!)
115. thrifted. Well, this one is easy. 99% of my wardrobe is thrifted. I grew up hating the thrift store and that I couldn't have the newest best clothes, but it's all surface. Now I love saving the money and that I can afford to get "new" clothes whenever I get tired of my old thrifted ones. Upcycle baby!!
Thursday, February 7, 2013
God's Timing is Perfect
February 7: A gift at 11:30 am, 2:30 pm, and 6:30 pm
110. 11:30 am- placing an order for Jimmy Johns for a lunch meeting. Having a yummy UNwich for lunch makes meetings more bearable. ;)
111. 2:30 pm- snow coming down (and happy I don't have to drive in it!) Finally. Winter.
112. 6:30 pm- 6 kids eating corn dogs and drinking hot chocolate after an afternoon helping Jason shovel the driveway
110. 11:30 am- placing an order for Jimmy Johns for a lunch meeting. Having a yummy UNwich for lunch makes meetings more bearable. ;)
111. 2:30 pm- snow coming down (and happy I don't have to drive in it!) Finally. Winter.
112. 6:30 pm- 6 kids eating corn dogs and drinking hot chocolate after an afternoon helping Jason shovel the driveway
Baby it's cold outside
February 6: 3 Gifts Outside
107. A certain handyman making repairs to the gutter (fixing an ice dam) at the church.
108. An Eagle perched in a neighbor's tree. Yes. Eagle. In the Chicago suburbs. Amazed.
109. A small hand in mine on the walk to school.
107. A certain handyman making repairs to the gutter (fixing an ice dam) at the church.
108. An Eagle perched in a neighbor's tree. Yes. Eagle. In the Chicago suburbs. Amazed.
109. A small hand in mine on the walk to school.
Switched but still counting
February 5: 3 Gifts found when bent down (I actually accidentally switched Feb 4& 5th gifts to count, these gifts should have been counted and recorded for yesterday)
104. change on the floor under the couch (always a good thing to find extra money)
105. bending down to light a fire in the fireplace
106. a bending of the heart and folding of the hands to lift up a friend in prayer -- always a humbling and precious thing to talk with my savior.
104. change on the floor under the couch (always a good thing to find extra money)
105. bending down to light a fire in the fireplace
106. a bending of the heart and folding of the hands to lift up a friend in prayer -- always a humbling and precious thing to talk with my savior.
Starting the second hundred!
February 4: A gift stitched, hammered, woven
101. Stitched- The stitching on the twin hats my boy and I wore today during Spirit Week Sports Day at school. We wore the same hats and every time I saw him today it made me smile.
102. Hammered- The nails hammered into the hands and feet of Jesus. He didn't need those nails. His love for us could have held Him there. But He needs us to be His hands and feet. Even today. Especially today.
103. Woven- The weaving of people in and out of our lives that have touched me and made me who I am today.
101. Stitched- The stitching on the twin hats my boy and I wore today during Spirit Week Sports Day at school. We wore the same hats and every time I saw him today it made me smile.
102. Hammered- The nails hammered into the hands and feet of Jesus. He didn't need those nails. His love for us could have held Him there. But He needs us to be His hands and feet. Even today. Especially today.
103. Woven- The weaving of people in and out of our lives that have touched me and made me who I am today.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Hard Thankfulness
February 3: 3 Gifts found in Writing
98. Desperation text to Jason saying the computer for church was down. My hero to come and rescue me. (Unfortunately, it was not just a simple fix and we went "old school" for service)
99. Sermon notes: "What does He want us to learn from this?" Hard day for the FVBC family. But Pastor's sermon really will mean so much more this week.
100. Bible passages to bind hearts together.
98. Desperation text to Jason saying the computer for church was down. My hero to come and rescue me. (Unfortunately, it was not just a simple fix and we went "old school" for service)
99. Sermon notes: "What does He want us to learn from this?" Hard day for the FVBC family. But Pastor's sermon really will mean so much more this week.
100. Bible passages to bind hearts together.
Don't recycle these!
February 2: 3 gifts on paper
95. One smart cookie- Ashleigh earned a certificate for counting to 100 on Friday. It was just yesterday she counted 1, 2, 3, 5, 11, 14, 15, 18.
96. While cleaning the girls' room today, I found a note from Payton to the girls saying he loved them.
97. Table of 8. Nice treat out by our neighbors to enjoy dinner together.
95. One smart cookie- Ashleigh earned a certificate for counting to 100 on Friday. It was just yesterday she counted 1, 2, 3, 5, 11, 14, 15, 18.
96. While cleaning the girls' room today, I found a note from Payton to the girls saying he loved them.
97. Table of 8. Nice treat out by our neighbors to enjoy dinner together.
Seeing Red
February 1: 3 Gifts Red
92. The blood of Christ. That He can love even me -- and even more, that He would die for me and still choose to use me in His service.
93. Red monkey slipper socks. So comfy and warm. And so cute.
94. New red pillows beckoning for an afternoon snooze on our new living room couch.
92. The blood of Christ. That He can love even me -- and even more, that He would die for me and still choose to use me in His service.
93. Red monkey slipper socks. So comfy and warm. And so cute.
94. New red pillows beckoning for an afternoon snooze on our new living room couch.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Manifested
January 31: A gift on paper, in a person, in a picture
89. Paper- Love note drawing from my son.
90. Person- My little cuddle bug. Love snuggling with her.
91. Picture- My monkey playing her guitar with her foot crossed over her knee. Note to self: In 10 years, retake that picture...
89. Paper- Love note drawing from my son.
90. Person- My little cuddle bug. Love snuggling with her.
91. Picture- My monkey playing her guitar with her foot crossed over her knee. Note to self: In 10 years, retake that picture...
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Lightened
January 30: 3 old things seen new
86. a child's old Dora boots leaving imprints in the snow... in opposite foot patterns. one little girl still has not learned to put shoes on the correct feet
87. old habits of a Wednesday night - now canceled for weather - and the newness of being able to relax on a Wednesday night
88. reading in the old testament shedding new light and new understanding
86. a child's old Dora boots leaving imprints in the snow... in opposite foot patterns. one little girl still has not learned to put shoes on the correct feet
87. old habits of a Wednesday night - now canceled for weather - and the newness of being able to relax on a Wednesday night
88. reading in the old testament shedding new light and new understanding
Sensing His Greatness
January 29: A song heard, a soft word, light seen
83. Song- it never gets old hearing my kids sing Jesus Loves Me. How profound a song and the greatest lesson in life to learn.
84. Soft word- a whisper of "I love you" on the lips
85. Light seen- a candle shining brightly on a gloomy, rainy, dreary day. Even one spark can make a flame. Reminds me of how I can shine my own candle in this dark world.
83. Song- it never gets old hearing my kids sing Jesus Loves Me. How profound a song and the greatest lesson in life to learn.
84. Soft word- a whisper of "I love you" on the lips
85. Light seen- a candle shining brightly on a gloomy, rainy, dreary day. Even one spark can make a flame. Reminds me of how I can shine my own candle in this dark world.
Monday, January 28, 2013
A little help from my friends
January 28: 3 graces found in friends
80. connections and freelance jobs
81. hospitality
82. emails of news of the loss of a loved one - remembering the good times and praying now for the hard times
80. connections and freelance jobs
81. hospitality
82. emails of news of the loss of a loved one - remembering the good times and praying now for the hard times
The LIttle Things
January 27: 3 Gifts in the Kitchen
77. a box of gluten free goodies given to us from a friend
78. sweet smelling soap
79. a chore chart written by a child and the work he puts in making sure he works to complete it each week
77. a box of gluten free goodies given to us from a friend
78. sweet smelling soap
79. a chore chart written by a child and the work he puts in making sure he works to complete it each week
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Early to Rise
January 26: A gift before dawn, at noon, after dark
74. Before dawn- kids playing quietly together even before the sun came up. Nice now that they are at the age to play in the morning and I can be a bit selfish and get a bit more sleep.
75. At noon- a fast food burger. Yes. An odd gift, but I have now found that I can request a burger "low carb" (lettuce wrapped. not in a bun) style and be able to once again get a burger on the fly and not have to worry about getting sick on the bread
76. After dark-A gathering of friends for a good meal and conversation.
74. Before dawn- kids playing quietly together even before the sun came up. Nice now that they are at the age to play in the morning and I can be a bit selfish and get a bit more sleep.
75. At noon- a fast food burger. Yes. An odd gift, but I have now found that I can request a burger "low carb" (lettuce wrapped. not in a bun) style and be able to once again get a burger on the fly and not have to worry about getting sick on the bread
76. After dark-A gathering of friends for a good meal and conversation.
Something Old, Something New
January 25: A grace borrowed, found, inherited
71. borrowed- that Tupperware that keeps getting washed and then reused at just the "right" time I need it... and back in the dishwasher it goes. one day it WILL get returned... (probably the same day I will get to Walmart to buy some new ones for myself...)
72. found- that spare bit of time on a busy Friday afternoon to re-fill out that questionnaire for the women's ministry event
73. inherited- my grandma's cedar chest that sits in the corner holding our blankets. I love getting a blanket out of there and covering myself in the scent of cedar.
71. borrowed- that Tupperware that keeps getting washed and then reused at just the "right" time I need it... and back in the dishwasher it goes. one day it WILL get returned... (probably the same day I will get to Walmart to buy some new ones for myself...)
72. found- that spare bit of time on a busy Friday afternoon to re-fill out that questionnaire for the women's ministry event
73. inherited- my grandma's cedar chest that sits in the corner holding our blankets. I love getting a blanket out of there and covering myself in the scent of cedar.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Blue doesn't mean sad
January 24: 3 Things Blue
68. My warm blue winter coat I've had since college. Warm. Comfy. Comfort.
69. Blue shirt twin day. Unplanned. With my son.
70. Ford Day. Car 99 photo shoot photos - bringing the boys back to the track!
68. My warm blue winter coat I've had since college. Warm. Comfy. Comfort.
69. Blue shirt twin day. Unplanned. With my son.
70. Ford Day. Car 99 photo shoot photos - bringing the boys back to the track!
Redeemed
January 23: 3 Gifts Found in Christ
65. Family of believers
66. Endless arms for hugging in the body of Christ
67. Grace. (Enough said)
65. Family of believers
66. Endless arms for hugging in the body of Christ
67. Grace. (Enough said)
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
wrapped up
January 22: A gift wrinkled, smooth, unfolded
62. Wrinkled- an unfolded blue fleece blanket on the couch from where Ashleigh slept from 5-7am after waking up the house letting us know the electricity was off due to some downed power lines. Thankfully the power was only off for about 45 minutes and we were able to get some more rest before school started this morning
63. Smooth- a roll of red wrapping paper to wrap a "patience gift" for our babysitter who we were finally able to pay off for her services watching Addison during school days last year
64. Unfolded- little love notes from my son left for me on my chair
62. Wrinkled- an unfolded blue fleece blanket on the couch from where Ashleigh slept from 5-7am after waking up the house letting us know the electricity was off due to some downed power lines. Thankfully the power was only off for about 45 minutes and we were able to get some more rest before school started this morning
63. Smooth- a roll of red wrapping paper to wrap a "patience gift" for our babysitter who we were finally able to pay off for her services watching Addison during school days last year
64. Unfolded- little love notes from my son left for me on my chair
Reflections
January 21: A gift in sky, water, memory
59. Sky- bright blue, warm sunshine. even with below zero temperatures, the brightest most beautiful blue.
60. Water- crazy middle school science experiments with water and rocks and the fun we have while learning
61. Memory- ripping apart our old sectional and remembering the memories made: bringing home 2 new babies and camping out there the first few weeks of their lives, movie nights with the hubby, making couch forts with the kids, hosting church kids and babysitters camping out for the night and so much more. moving out to the playroom and making room for NEW living room furniture tonight.
59. Sky- bright blue, warm sunshine. even with below zero temperatures, the brightest most beautiful blue.
60. Water- crazy middle school science experiments with water and rocks and the fun we have while learning
61. Memory- ripping apart our old sectional and remembering the memories made: bringing home 2 new babies and camping out there the first few weeks of their lives, movie nights with the hubby, making couch forts with the kids, hosting church kids and babysitters camping out for the night and so much more. moving out to the playroom and making room for NEW living room furniture tonight.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Check your eyes
January 20: 3 gifts only seen close-up
56. the multi-colored flecks in our children's eyes. Our kids eyes still haven't decided what color their eyes are and I love looking each of them deep into their eyes to see the color that becomes dominant each day
(today Payton's were gold, Ashleigh's were green, and Adi's were blue gray)
57. Daddy's "pick in his thumb" Ashleigh asked Jason why he had a pick in his thumb today (the bruise on his thumb nail where he injured it a few weeks ago while doing construction work). Love the cute things out of babes' mouths.
58. Little Details. It's a big change for those who see it - Jason worked to rearrange and fix the sound booth (balcony) at church and it's a great change but not many will see it. Love serving "behind the scenes" with him on Sunday mornings in the techie side of the worship service.
56. the multi-colored flecks in our children's eyes. Our kids eyes still haven't decided what color their eyes are and I love looking each of them deep into their eyes to see the color that becomes dominant each day
(today Payton's were gold, Ashleigh's were green, and Adi's were blue gray)
57. Daddy's "pick in his thumb" Ashleigh asked Jason why he had a pick in his thumb today (the bruise on his thumb nail where he injured it a few weeks ago while doing construction work). Love the cute things out of babes' mouths.
58. Little Details. It's a big change for those who see it - Jason worked to rearrange and fix the sound booth (balcony) at church and it's a great change but not many will see it. Love serving "behind the scenes" with him on Sunday mornings in the techie side of the worship service.
Forever changed
January 19: 3 gifts that might never have been
53. our warm house. When we lost our home to foreclosure we were not sure where God would take us. Then our church offered the 2nd parsonage to rent. We are so blessed to be so close to serve alongside such a wonderful church- and our neighbors are the best.
54. Booking a hotel for a trip to Wisconsin to meet up with the company I do freelance design work for. If the money had not come in for Jason's house remodel he did, we wouldn't be going, but it's in and the trip is booked.
55. Our children. That God entrusted me with three angels in itself is an everyday miracle that I know I am so blessed to have.
53. our warm house. When we lost our home to foreclosure we were not sure where God would take us. Then our church offered the 2nd parsonage to rent. We are so blessed to be so close to serve alongside such a wonderful church- and our neighbors are the best.
54. Booking a hotel for a trip to Wisconsin to meet up with the company I do freelance design work for. If the money had not come in for Jason's house remodel he did, we wouldn't be going, but it's in and the trip is booked.
55. Our children. That God entrusted me with three angels in itself is an everyday miracle that I know I am so blessed to have.
Basic Instructions
January 18: 3 gifts from God's word
50. Ephesians 2:10 -- We are God's special creation! Let go of our finger painting and let the artist do His great work in us.
51. 2 Chronicles 20:17 -- When we are weary remember the Lord has already won the battle!
52. Jeremiah 31:3 -- Oh how He loves us!! Amen.
50. Ephesians 2:10 -- We are God's special creation! Let go of our finger painting and let the artist do His great work in us.
51. 2 Chronicles 20:17 -- When we are weary remember the Lord has already won the battle!
52. Jeremiah 31:3 -- Oh how He loves us!! Amen.
Faithful
January 17: A gift bringing laughter, prayer, quiet
49. laughter: 5 crazy girls and a boy trial-running "crazy hair day" for spirit week at school in a few weeks
50. prayer: tucking in my children and them not letting me leave their room before we pray together. Love hos they remind me to stay faithful
51. quiet: the ten minutes between the school opening bell and the 2nd bell for class to begin that I can read my devotional email and prepare for the day
49. laughter: 5 crazy girls and a boy trial-running "crazy hair day" for spirit week at school in a few weeks
50. prayer: tucking in my children and them not letting me leave their room before we pray together. Love hos they remind me to stay faithful
51. quiet: the ten minutes between the school opening bell and the 2nd bell for class to begin that I can read my devotional email and prepare for the day
Thursday, January 17, 2013
So I can see
January 16: Witnessed blessings
46. I care for three girls after school every other week and tonight they helped Addison play a game so everyone could play and have fun. These girls are so much fun and wonderful blessings.
47. The outpouring of love for a former member at our church who passed away suddenly last weekend.
48. Ice melting off my van. I don't mind winter so much if the ice stayed away. This year we haven't had but maybe an inch of snow and have had just about as much ice. Where did winter go? I'm happy to not have to shovel, but I could do without the ice...
46. I care for three girls after school every other week and tonight they helped Addison play a game so everyone could play and have fun. These girls are so much fun and wonderful blessings.
47. The outpouring of love for a former member at our church who passed away suddenly last weekend.
48. Ice melting off my van. I don't mind winter so much if the ice stayed away. This year we haven't had but maybe an inch of snow and have had just about as much ice. Where did winter go? I'm happy to not have to shovel, but I could do without the ice...
15 days in!
January 15: A Gift Worn, Given Away, Shared
43. Worn: My Georgia Hoodie Sweatshirt. Just one of those comfy, warp-yourself-in-warmth, feel-good sweatshirts. Makes me long for the days when all the light and warmth we need will be resting in the arms of Jesus.
44. Given away: Hugs. I love hugs. Giving and receiving. Period.
45. Shared: Toys being played with and shared nicely between my children. Playing together. Just lovely.
43. Worn: My Georgia Hoodie Sweatshirt. Just one of those comfy, warp-yourself-in-warmth, feel-good sweatshirts. Makes me long for the days when all the light and warmth we need will be resting in the arms of Jesus.
44. Given away: Hugs. I love hugs. Giving and receiving. Period.
45. Shared: Toys being played with and shared nicely between my children. Playing together. Just lovely.
Monday, January 14, 2013
Amazed
January 14: 3 Startling Graces of God
40. Grace: A kindness we don't deserve. Just the fact alone that God gives me grace at all, is an amazing mystery to me. That He would find favor in me.
41. Kindness: The willing and open coffee pot of a co-worker. Especially on a cold Monday morning.
42. Generosity of spirit: Unconditional love of my children and my children toward me. An unending grace I am so very thankful for.
40. Grace: A kindness we don't deserve. Just the fact alone that God gives me grace at all, is an amazing mystery to me. That He would find favor in me.
41. Kindness: The willing and open coffee pot of a co-worker. Especially on a cold Monday morning.
42. Generosity of spirit: Unconditional love of my children and my children toward me. An unending grace I am so very thankful for.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Reflections
January 13: Things about myself I am grateful for
37. The legacy of faith before me and prayerfully the one I am leaving for my own children and generations to come
38. Carefree attitude. I try to not let things sink my boat.
39. My organized disorganization. Things may look messy on the outside, but inside I know where everything is at.
37. The legacy of faith before me and prayerfully the one I am leaving for my own children and generations to come
38. Carefree attitude. I try to not let things sink my boat.
39. My organized disorganization. Things may look messy on the outside, but inside I know where everything is at.
Open the Eyes
January 12: Something Above, Below, Beside
34. Above- the canvas print of Payton as a baby and I in Rhode Island and the inspiration it gives me to take the step of faith -and when coupons come just at the right moment to make it cost effective to get another canvas print-- for a friend.
35. Below- the last two missing puzzle pieces found under the couch by my owl-eyed daughter
36. Beside- my partner in life-my husband-and the fun he adds to everyday mundane tasks like laundry
34. Above- the canvas print of Payton as a baby and I in Rhode Island and the inspiration it gives me to take the step of faith -and when coupons come just at the right moment to make it cost effective to get another canvas print-- for a friend.
35. Below- the last two missing puzzle pieces found under the couch by my owl-eyed daughter
36. Beside- my partner in life-my husband-and the fun he adds to everyday mundane tasks like laundry
Friday, January 11, 2013
Yellow
January 11: 3 Yellow Gifts of Fresh Mercy
31. The yellow stripe I FINALLY finished in Payton's newly painted room.
32. The Beatitudes poster in my classroom- reminding my students and myself what is truly important.
33. My yellow FRIDAY folder in my classroom that is empty for the week and tells me: GO HOME and enjoy some rest.
31. The yellow stripe I FINALLY finished in Payton's newly painted room.
32. The Beatitudes poster in my classroom- reminding my students and myself what is truly important.
33. My yellow FRIDAY folder in my classroom that is empty for the week and tells me: GO HOME and enjoy some rest.
Yum-O
January 10: A gift sour, sweet, just right
28. Sour- the sometimes sour taste of a child having a meltdown in school. Having to realize my grown-up responsibilities and swallow the bitter pill of having to discipline said child. Yet then having her come to you and say sorry and crawl into your arms and your heart melts all over again...
29. Sweet- Vans Custard. Those who don't live in the Dundee area, I pity you.
30. Just right- a husband who loves and listens and knows just when I need that extra little bit.
28. Sour- the sometimes sour taste of a child having a meltdown in school. Having to realize my grown-up responsibilities and swallow the bitter pill of having to discipline said child. Yet then having her come to you and say sorry and crawl into your arms and your heart melts all over again...
29. Sweet- Vans Custard. Those who don't live in the Dundee area, I pity you.
30. Just right- a husband who loves and listens and knows just when I need that extra little bit.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Those I love
January 7: 3 Graces from people you love
19. First day back at school after 2 weeks off for winter break, and this morning my three children were up and ready and no fussing by 7:20. Grace.
20. My coworker making a pot of coffee to share without me asking. Grace.
21. My husband working so hard to provide for his family. I love him.
19. First day back at school after 2 weeks off for winter break, and this morning my three children were up and ready and no fussing by 7:20. Grace.
20. My coworker making a pot of coffee to share without me asking. Grace.
21. My husband working so hard to provide for his family. I love him.
These things I have held in my heart...
January 9: A gift held, passed by, sat with.
25. A gift held- In my heart I hold the promises of my Savior. As I read in my devotions this morning:" Jesus did not die on the cross just to get us out of hell and into heaven. He died on the cross to get Himself out of heaven and into us!" -Renee Swope
26. Passed by- the students of GCS passing in the hallways- always ready with a smile and a hug. I love those random hugs.
27. Sat with- my baby girl who is always wanting to sit with me and hold her. I know these days will not last forever. I treasure them (even if sometimes I would rather have my lap space).
25. A gift held- In my heart I hold the promises of my Savior. As I read in my devotions this morning:" Jesus did not die on the cross just to get us out of hell and into heaven. He died on the cross to get Himself out of heaven and into us!" -Renee Swope
26. Passed by- the students of GCS passing in the hallways- always ready with a smile and a hug. I love those random hugs.
27. Sat with- my baby girl who is always wanting to sit with me and hold her. I know these days will not last forever. I treasure them (even if sometimes I would rather have my lap space).
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Salt and Light
January 8: Dusky light, Surprising reflection, Lovely shadow
22. Dusky light: the children and I helping my husband finish a remodel job after school today. This one is a bit of a stretch, but if I may take the challenge and twist it a bit- it was more of a DUSTY light... I will say the kids helping clean for 3 hours without a single complaint was quite a blessing.
23. Surprising reflection: The light in my children's eyes as they were serving others.
24. Lovely shadow: Ashleigh's "Mom, look how long my legs are" comment as we walked to school this morning.
22. Dusky light: the children and I helping my husband finish a remodel job after school today. This one is a bit of a stretch, but if I may take the challenge and twist it a bit- it was more of a DUSTY light... I will say the kids helping clean for 3 hours without a single complaint was quite a blessing.
23. Surprising reflection: The light in my children's eyes as they were serving others.
24. Lovely shadow: Ashleigh's "Mom, look how long my legs are" comment as we walked to school this morning.
Monday, January 7, 2013
Contained
January 6: Three gifts in your bag, your fridge, your heart.
16. In my bag: I don't carry a bag, but in my wallet I have a rewards card to Goodwill. As much as store cards bug me (you have to have one for pretty much EVERYWHERE and people are always asking for them- just give everyone the deals... but off the soapbox...) I love being a card-carrying member to Goodwill. I can't imagine paying full price for jeans these days. And I found a brand new pair WITH TAGS ON yesterday for $4.99. Yes. I'll keep my card in my wallet for that.
17. In my fridge: Cheese curds. Say no more.
18. In my heart: the little love moments my children give me everyday will forever stay in my heart.
16. In my bag: I don't carry a bag, but in my wallet I have a rewards card to Goodwill. As much as store cards bug me (you have to have one for pretty much EVERYWHERE and people are always asking for them- just give everyone the deals... but off the soapbox...) I love being a card-carrying member to Goodwill. I can't imagine paying full price for jeans these days. And I found a brand new pair WITH TAGS ON yesterday for $4.99. Yes. I'll keep my card in my wallet for that.
17. In my fridge: Cheese curds. Say no more.
18. In my heart: the little love moments my children give me everyday will forever stay in my heart.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Hobbies
January 5: Something You're Reading, Making, Seeing
13. Reading: My Daily Devotions that come via e-mail. One a day that always seem to hit a situation I'm currently dealing with or thinking about.
14. Making: Making home improvements. Current project: I FINALLY started re-painting Payton's bedroom. Wanted to start at the start of winter break, but now with just the weekend left, I trimmed and Payton helped roll the new color (two-tone grey) on today. More work to do tomorrow, but it's something we can do together and he likes it. He even wrote me the sweetest thank you note about it.
15. Seeing: My kids grow up. It is my prayer that they will grow up and emit the love of Christ with their lives and when I see it even now at their tender ages of 8, 5, and 3, I just pray they don't lose it.
13. Reading: My Daily Devotions that come via e-mail. One a day that always seem to hit a situation I'm currently dealing with or thinking about.
14. Making: Making home improvements. Current project: I FINALLY started re-painting Payton's bedroom. Wanted to start at the start of winter break, but now with just the weekend left, I trimmed and Payton helped roll the new color (two-tone grey) on today. More work to do tomorrow, but it's something we can do together and he likes it. He even wrote me the sweetest thank you note about it.
15. Seeing: My kids grow up. It is my prayer that they will grow up and emit the love of Christ with their lives and when I see it even now at their tender ages of 8, 5, and 3, I just pray they don't lose it.
Friday, January 4, 2013
Old, New, and Blue
January 4: A Gift Old, New, and Blue
10. Old: traditions of working on a puzzle over winter holidays
11. New: my Christmas present of a crazy hard puzzle- challenging and yet fun
12. Blue: Adi's blue blanket and her cuddle and crash time on the floor (yes, she was under that blanket) while I worked on the bulletin for church on Sunday
10. Old: traditions of working on a puzzle over winter holidays
11. New: my Christmas present of a crazy hard puzzle- challenging and yet fun
12. Blue: Adi's blue blanket and her cuddle and crash time on the floor (yes, she was under that blanket) while I worked on the bulletin for church on Sunday
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Day 3
January 3: 3 Graces Overheard
7. the whir of the ball return as the kids used their free Winter Break bowling passes
8. my girls saying thank you (unprodded) after a playdate with a school mate
9. not really overheard, but the buzz is out on a book that I designed on a freelance basis for a small Christian book company in Wisconsin- and for the first time in company history, they have a book on a best-seller list! I am honored to have a part in this project: "A Time For Every Purpose Under Heaven" by Chris Lohmer Kincaid. #3 on Amazon link here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/bestsellers/books/12384?ref=sr_bs_1
7. the whir of the ball return as the kids used their free Winter Break bowling passes
8. my girls saying thank you (unprodded) after a playdate with a school mate
9. not really overheard, but the buzz is out on a book that I designed on a freelance basis for a small Christian book company in Wisconsin- and for the first time in company history, they have a book on a best-seller list! I am honored to have a part in this project: "A Time For Every Purpose Under Heaven" by Chris Lohmer Kincaid. #3 on Amazon link here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/bestsellers/books/12384?ref=sr_bs_1
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Daily 3 scavenger hunt continues
January 2: A gift outside, inside, on a plate
4. A gift outside: sunshine falling across the hardwood floor making my winter toes a bit warmer
5. a gift inside: 2 teens coming to say hi and one staying late so Jason and I can go out on a date
6. A gift on a plate: pecan salad for dinner on previously mentioned date. Just being able to eat out without getting sick can be so hard on the gluten free diet. So glad gf is becoming more known.
4. A gift outside: sunshine falling across the hardwood floor making my winter toes a bit warmer
5. a gift inside: 2 teens coming to say hi and one staying late so Jason and I can go out on a date
6. A gift on a plate: pecan salad for dinner on previously mentioned date. Just being able to eat out without getting sick can be so hard on the gluten free diet. So glad gf is becoming more known.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Happy New Year!
Welcome 2013!
Last year I read a book I highly recommend to everyone: 1,000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp. I was raised on the Christian mantra to "Count Your Blessings" - well this book reminds us how to do that - and not just the "easy" blessings... but EVERY blessings. Even the hard ones. This book changed my life last year, enough so that I am going to take the "Joy Dare" again this year. Counting my blessings keeps me humble and so thankful for the hard lessons and the little treasures that everyday God uses to bless my life. Without counting them, we can miss those moments. It is my prayer that I can in return be a blessing to others in my service to Him. So this will be a new project - and one I'm taking public. Or at least, anyone still reading this blog. Last year I counted blessings just as I found them and while the dare says to count 3 a day there were times when I didn't record anything only to count double or sometimes triple in the days to follow. This year, I'm following the Joy Dare plan and going to post my blessings here on this blog. I'm going to follow the list from www.aholyexperience.com if you are interested in also taking the Joy Dare. Be prepared though- it will change your life!
January 1: 3 Gifts Heard
1. a whisper of "I love you" from my husband
2. the children's laughter
3. worship music playing as the kids and I cleaned the house - as Ashleigh said "music to motivate"
It is my prayer that the music doesn't just motivate us to clean, but to draw us closer to our Savior this year- personally, and as a family.
Last year I read a book I highly recommend to everyone: 1,000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp. I was raised on the Christian mantra to "Count Your Blessings" - well this book reminds us how to do that - and not just the "easy" blessings... but EVERY blessings. Even the hard ones. This book changed my life last year, enough so that I am going to take the "Joy Dare" again this year. Counting my blessings keeps me humble and so thankful for the hard lessons and the little treasures that everyday God uses to bless my life. Without counting them, we can miss those moments. It is my prayer that I can in return be a blessing to others in my service to Him. So this will be a new project - and one I'm taking public. Or at least, anyone still reading this blog. Last year I counted blessings just as I found them and while the dare says to count 3 a day there were times when I didn't record anything only to count double or sometimes triple in the days to follow. This year, I'm following the Joy Dare plan and going to post my blessings here on this blog. I'm going to follow the list from www.aholyexperience.com if you are interested in also taking the Joy Dare. Be prepared though- it will change your life!
January 1: 3 Gifts Heard
1. a whisper of "I love you" from my husband
2. the children's laughter
3. worship music playing as the kids and I cleaned the house - as Ashleigh said "music to motivate"
It is my prayer that the music doesn't just motivate us to clean, but to draw us closer to our Savior this year- personally, and as a family.
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