The James' Family Happenings

I'm writing this from our home

2011-12-20T15:06:00.000-05:00

We moved into our house this past weekend and are settling in quite nicely. We've already got our tree up and our Christmas decorations out! The boys rooms, kitchen and living room are all unpacked and being enjoyed. Our room looks like a tornado hit it but we've decided we're ok with that, it's time to focus on Christmas and all that we've been blessed with! It's so amazing to just look around and see the gift that this house is. I pray we never take for granted what we have, what we've been blessed with! Not just in our home, but in the process that brought us here.

The boys are loving all the toys that they had forgotten about and the space that our new home allows them to explore. They love being here but Isaac, especially, is missing being with his Nye and Papa (grandma and grandpa) all the time. He's already making plans for when he can go stay the night. :) We can not say or ever show how truly thankful we are to my parents for the past 17 months. No one imagined that 6 months would turn into 17 and they handled it with such grace. They showed an example of what it means to give unselfishly. Yes, I am their daughter but they let us stay without question and put up with A LOT of crazy in the mean time! Mom and Dad, Stephen and I love you both and are so very thankful for what you've given to our family! Without you, this, our home would not have been possible! Thank you!

We truly can see God's hand in this entire story of our house being built. Our builder sticking it out, finding an investor, working tirelessly after MANY setbacks. He was determined to finish our house for us and he did just that. He stuck in out and when many builders would have walked away and with good reason, he kept his word. We know that we have a home that he put his whole heart into. A home that has lots of little touches that he put in just because he wanted to. You can say that he owed it to us, but he didn't. He owes and owed us nothing, why is my life or needs greater then his. It isn't and in times like these when builders are losing everything, he gave more.

We are so very thankful that God held us and walked with us through this process. We could not have handled all that was put in our path without Him. He provided amazing friends for us that when we lost hope, they were there to encourage us and speak wisdom to us. He gave us the faith we needed press on.

Merry Christmas from my family to yours. Take time to thank God for the amazing gift that He gave us so long ago in the manger and thank Him that the story doesn't end there!

We are so close

2011-11-22T15:39:00.001-05:00

Well in case you're wondering, we haven't closed.  We are so close but we've hit another rather large

speed bump. It's been in the process of being smoothed out for a couple weeks now and we're almost

done with it.  What a relief that will be.  Dealing with loans and all of the legal mess, is just that, a mess!

With that being said, the new projected time line is to close sometime next week.  Time will tell.

Here's the progress that has happened at the house.  I need to get over there with the camera to take

some more pictures so until then, you get words.

 Clear Trees on the lot
Foundation
Framing

Shingle the roof 
Pre-electrical
pre-plumbing
pre-HVAC

pre-wire for sound system 
install sofets and facia
install windows and outside doors
Put on siding
Install drywall
Lay hardwood floors, tile and carpet
Paint
Install cabinets and countertops
Trim work (in progress)

Instal light fixture (in progress)

Finish Electrical (should be completed tomorrow)

Finish Plumbing

Finish HVAC (should be completed tomorrow)
Landscaping

Lay cement for driveway and garage

Finish floors (just needs the finish coat)

Touch up paint and drywall nicks (almost complete)

 Install gutters

As you can tell we are so close, in fact we're almost done.  Oh sweet Jesus, please let it happen next week.

WE ARE READY!

House Update

2011-11-05T21:36:00.001-04:00

Clear Trees on the lot
Foundation
Framing

Shingle the roof 
Pre-electrical
pre-plumbing
pre-HVAC

pre-wire for sound system 
install sofets and facia
install windows and outside doors
Put on siding
Install drywall
Lay hardwood floors, tile and carpet
Paint (almost complete)
Install cabinets and countertops (almost complete)
Trim work (in progress)
Instal light fixtures

Finish Electrical

Finish Plumbing

Finish HVAC
Landscaping

Lay cement for driveway and garage

Finish floors

Touch up paint and drywall nicks

Install gutters

There is light at the end of the tunnel and it feels so good!  Our closing is scheduled right now for November 14th

but it already appears that we might get moved to the 18th.   We're just so thankful to be at this point and to

nearing the end of this 16 month adventure!

Also stay tuned to for an Audio Visual post by my husband.  He'll tell you all about the equipment we're getting

and tell you about the audio visual company we're using and how amazing they are and their contact

information.

Jacmel Bay

2011-09-14T14:40:00.000-04:00

Hey All!

If you've been around a while you know how much I care about Haiti and the Mangine Family that lives there! Gwenn's mom, Denise, has started a company, Jacmel Bay, with another way to help the people of Haiti.

Check out Gwenn's blog and learn about ways you can spread the word and enter a chance to win some great stuff from Jacmel Bay.

Roller Coaster

2011-08-16T14:25:00.001-04:00

This process is such a roller coaster ride and the majority of the time we are riding it blindfolded.

We have had a time line; a plan of what and when something would happen.  When it hasn't

happened according to our plan or even remotely resembled our plan we have felt lost and

completely let down. Maybe God has forgotten about us or he isn't listening. Then we've begun

to question our choice to build in the first place. Did we completely miss his leading?  Are we not

following God's will for our family?  Lately I've been challenged a lot with the thought that what if we

are in His will and exactly where he wants us?  Learning and growing, gleaming wisdom deep

inside this time of waiting and yearning for what is to come.  What if my seeming discomfort is

growing his kingdom?  What if our actions are speaking far louder then any words we may speak?

All for His glory, not ours.

"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task

the Lord Jesus has given me..." Acts 20:24

On to news about what has happened, is happening and what needs to happen with our

house.

I thought it would be fun and feel so good to mark off as we finish things!





Clear Trees on the lot

Foundation

Framing

Shingle the roof  (almost complete)

Pre-electrical (starting Thursday)

pre-plumbing

pre-HVAC

pre-wire for sound system

install sofets and facia (in progress)

install windows and outside doors (almost complete)

Put on siding

Install drywall

Lay hardwood floors, tile and carpet

Paint

Install cabinets and countertops

Trim work

Instal light fixtures

Finish Electrical

Finish Plumbing

Finish HVAC

Landscaping

Lay cement for driveway and garage

Also I'm planning to give details about a few  things when they happen.

I will be highlighting some great companies that we know personally that will be working on our

house. They do amazing work and are blessing us more then we could imagine!  So watch for

those details!  You will want to call them.

Also we got a call that our lender has gone out of business.  It's almost comical, haha!  My

goodness, this roller coaster!  Our guy is already moving to another company and taking us

with him and we will be able to relock with the new company at a lower rate then we are at

right now!  So thankful that God continues to protect us and lead us.

We know that a lot of people believe we should walk away and that we are being taken

advantage of.  I want to make it clear that we know our builder is a good and honest man!

He is doing his best in this horrible time in our economy.  Builders and tradesman and

struggling terribly!  We appreciate your concern for our family but please know that we aren't

being naive and we are seeking wisdom from other people. But more then our trust in him

we have faith that God is leading our family through this!

Thank you for continuing to pray for us during this journey, we need it!  So excited about the

next few months!

Turning Two

2011-07-27T09:36:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet, determined and independent Eli!

You have brought such joy to our family since the moment you took your first breath,

You've also brought much excitement.

You want to do everything your big brother does and always add your own little spin on it.

But you always want mommy and daddy near by in case you need anything.

We love you sweet boy and are so thankful for you and everything you teach us!!!

Turning Four

2011-07-20T04:43:00.003-04:00

I can hardly believe how fast these past four years have flown by! You have taught us so much in your short little life, you bring us such joy!

You show us daily what it means to enjoy life and that there is joy in all things. Your laugh is so contagious that anyone who hears it wants to join in!

You are an amazing big brother. You've taken the roll of big brother with such ease and it's an absolute joy to watch you with Eli. You have already become the best of friends, taking the world by storm!

Your curiosity and adventurous spirit makes us want to join in on whatever adventure is in front of us. Seeing life through your eyes just makes everything look better!

We are so very thankful for you, for what you bring to our lives, to our family. You, Isaac Thomas make everyday an amazing adventure and we feel so blessed to be with you in this journey! We love watching you grow and experience new things!

Happy Birthday sweet boy!

Mountain View Treasury

2011-06-30T15:08:00.000-04:00

I've been included in my first treasury on Etsy!

So exciting! Check it out!

Mountain View Treasury

Dreams past

2011-06-23T13:46:00.000-04:00

Some of you may not know this about me but I love photography. I have loved it since high school and actually had plans of going to college for photography, unfortunately it never worked out. That's a story for another day. Anyways, we have been praying and trying to find ways that I can bring a little extra income home while still being home with the boys. God put photography on my heart as a way to do it and little did I know He was whispering to Stephen as well. Stephen had decided to get me a new camera for my birthday. After he had already bought it I told him about "my" idea. To open an etsy shop and see if I could sell some prints. I had not idea about the camera and told Stephen I wasn't sure it was possible, with the camera we had but it was worth a try.

Stephen decided to give me my present a few days before my birthday. It was just the four of us on my parents back porch. Stephen brought out my present wrapped in his normal wrapping paper, a beach towel. haha! When he gave it to me he said, "I love you and I know that you can do anything you put your mind to". I opened the towel and saw the camera, I started to cry.

So this begins my journey. My journey towards a dream that was breathed into me in high school, a dream that I thought had passed me by. I may not be the best photographer but I have a passion for it, that has to count for something. So check out my shop, tell me what you think, but be kind, remember it's someone's dream you are critiquing.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/phoyoxposeyo

Favorite #7

2011-06-03T10:52:00.000-04:00

Laurie - my cousin

Born 17 days after me and until we moved away, always lived just a block away. We went to elementary school and middle school together. Dreamed about boys together. Rode to school together in middle school. She surprised me on my 14th birthday and flew here (with my great aunt mabel) to spend time with us. She wrote and called all the time when we first moved away. She filled me in on all the gossip that I was missing by moving so far away. She understood what it meant to tell me. She stood beside me on the day that Stephen and I became husband and wife and has stood by me everyday since. She always sends a birthday card and an anniversary card. When I think of my life growing up it always includes her. Christmas', Thanksgiving, Birthday's, going to the garden with Aunt Mabel, getting Dairy Queen, McDonald's and just goofing around. I love her like no one else! She means more to me then I think she even realizes! I could not imagine a greater friend or cousin!

29 Blessed Years

2011-05-29T20:28:00.000-04:00

The closer I get to 30, the more and more I realize just what an amazing life I've already lived. The things I've learned and still have left to learn. But most importantly the people that I've loved along the way. The greatest thing in life is not only my relationship with God but my relationship with people. 29 years old and so very much to show for it, God has blessed with more then I could have ever imagined.

My husband, Stephen. You make my heart sing whenever I think of your love for me and the way you lead our family so well. I could not have dreamed of a better husband, father of my children or leader for our family. God is so good!

Oh my sweet boys, Isaac Thomas and Eli Westin! I am so honored to be your mommy, honored to have been able to carry you and give birth to you. I love watching you grow and change every single day of your lives. Every smile and giggle brings such joy to my heart. You teach me daily what true patience is and that I can not be a good mommy to you without God walking with us! Thank you, thank you for teaching me so much about what life is truly about.

My parents and my in-laws. I have been so blessed by you all and so thankful for the encouragement you are in my life. I'm so thankful for the way God uses each of you to show me what it means to walk with Him and to parent our children well.

Josh and Katie. ( I think this picture is HILARIOUS!) Where do I even start? I hope I never take for granted you all in my life. Josh, it's hard to believe how much we really didn't like each other growing up. Now I just wish we could spend more time together, you make me laugh like no body else. Katie, I can ALWAYS count on you for a listening ear and encouragement. What you've done for our family with the bakery means more to us then you will ever know. The boys love you both so very much and are so blessed to have you as an Aunt and Uncle. We all love spending time with you guys!

Not to mention the rest of my family and my friends. You all mean the world to me and I'm so looking forward to the rest of my life. Making memories. Truly living. Thank you all for making this year one of the best yet. It's been a hard year, but it's been a great year. A year of truly relying on God for answers and direction! It has been a year like no other!

Different Kinds of Happy

2011-05-28T13:28:00.002-04:00

go on and ask me anything
what do you need to know
I'm not holding on to anything
I'm not willing to let go of
to be free, to be free

I've got to ask you something
but please don't be afraid
there's a promise here that's heavier
than your answer might weigh
baby it's me, it's me

it's a sweet, sweet thing

standing here with you and nothing to hide
light shining down to our very insides
sharing our secrets, bearing our souls,
helping each other come clean

secrets and cyphers
there's no good way to hide

there's redemption in confession
and freedom in the light
I'm not afraid, I'm not afraid

it's a sweet, sweet thing
standing here with you and nothing to hide
light shining down to our very insides
sharing our secrets, bearing our souls,
helping each other come clean

better than our promises
is the day we got to keep them
I wish those two could see us now
they never would believe how
there are different kinds of happy
different kinds of happy
there are different kinds of happy
different kinds of happy
Lyrics by, Sara Groves "Different Kinds of Happy"

Stephen Robert James - this has been the most amazing 6 years of my entire life! I can not wait to see all the different kids of happy that the rest of our journey will bring! I love sharing my secrets and baring my soul to you, there will never be another! I love you to the moon and back!

Jesus I Am Resting

2011-05-25T13:35:00.002-04:00

Written: May 12, 2011

Meeting with our builder today about a new schedule...

Resting in the fact that God is in control, no matter what. His ways are always good and that all things work for the good of those who love Him. Even if it's not what we were planning or dreaming about.

Our stairs treads arrived today for the house. Resting knowing that we may no longer need the stair treads.

Resting in the fact that His ways are greater then my ways. His ways are always better.

Just resting. Best place to be.

Integrity

2011-05-25T13:27:00.007-04:00

Sorry to leave y'all hanging since my last post about meeting with the builder.

Our builder is going to finish our house. After our meeting Stephen and I are seeing more and more the kind of integrity that our builder has. Even with so many things stacked against him he is determined to finish our house. He could very easily walk away and honestly he would be warranted to do so. When so many builders and people in this world don't stick to their commitments because things get tough it's amazing to see a company that works their butts off to keep their word. We will be in our house, I am confident in that.

It looks like now it will be August. We are so thankful for my parents and the sacrifices they are making by letting us continue to live with them. None of us expected it to take this long and this is definitely not what my parents signed on for but they graciously continue to take it one step at a time. We will never be able to repay them for this!

Mom and Dad, even though Stephen and I may not always say it, we are so very thankful for you opening your house to us. Thanks for taking this journey with us and supporting us EVERY step of the way and never questioning our judgement! You will never know what that means to us! We love you both!

Fundraisier for Joy in Hope!

2011-05-20T10:57:00.001-04:00

THIS ENTIRE POST WAS WRITTEN BY MY DEAR FRIEND, GWENN MANGINE. GWENN LIVES IN HAITI AND WORKS FOR JOY IN HOPE(LOVE THEM). CHECK OUT HER BLOG.

Okay, tomorrow is a fundraiser for JiH but I don't want all you non-Triangle, NC people (or people who can't attend) to tune out because there is a way you too can help! *

Tomorrow from 11AM - 8PM Skipper's, 1001 East Williams Street, Apex, NC 27502 voted one of the Triangle's Top 25 restaurants, has generously donated all profits for the ENTIRE day to Joy in Hope.
$8 buys your choice of either:
Fish Plate (with slaw, hushpuppies, and beverage)
OR
Two Fish Tacos (with rice and beverage)
In addition, there will be several items raffled off-- jewelry, t-shirts, sports tickets, amphitheater tickets, restaurant gift certificates, store gift certificates, and even a brand new Ipad 2. (16G wifi/3G/with smart cover) Tickets are $1 each, 7 for $5, or 15 for $10. (Winner does not need to be present to win.)

Live music throughout the day-- 2:30-1:30pm, 2:00-3:00pm, and 5:30-7:30pm.

Desserts, Haitian jewelry, art, and my favorite people in the world will be there too-- well crap, now I just got super homesick! :(

*So if you non-local people are still with me-- JiH is parterning with the community in a cool way through this fundraiser. Anyone can donate online to purchase tickets for the fundraiser and those plates will be given to local emergency responders-- police, fire, EMS. Since I can't be there, I ordered 2 plates online to be donated. It's really a win/win. JiH gets support and we get to give back to the people in the community who are always there supporting us. To donate online towards this, go to http://www.joyinhope.org/donate.asp and choose "Annual Fish Fry."

One final disclaimer-- Not a fish person? No worries-- desserts, music, art... lots to do. And for the record, I am NOT a fish person BUT, I LOVE Skipper's fish. It is super delicious and not at all "fishy." Not lying.

Thanks for hanging in there with me for this quick post that has gotten WAY too long!

Later taters.

And, oh, PLEASE share this info for us too!

"I'm gonna be late, I need to go back home to get my tooth."

2011-05-04T12:14:00.000-04:00

Never did I think at the age of 28 I would have to call a friend and say, "I'm gonna be late, I need to go back home I forgot my tooth". Well those words past through my lips just a couple weeks ago. My friend Crystal and I had a pretty good laugh about it. Hilarious. I had a tooth pulled a month or so ago.

I have what they call a flipper, which basically holds the space until I get either a bridge or an implant. I have to take it out at night and then put it back in in the morning. Unfortunately, lots of mornings when I need to be somewhere I'm running around crazy trying to get the boys and myself ready and out the door. I've now twice forgotten to put it in. So if you see me without a tooth, please feel free to laugh because I am. :)

Holy Hill

2011-04-26T21:39:00.000-04:00

Photo Courtesy of http://www.emporia.edu/biosci/eeb.htm

"O Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, 'God will not deliver him.' But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head. To the Lord I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me, I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side. Arise, O Lord! Deliver me, O my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked. From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people." Psalm 3

My dear friend Jen sent me this verse recently and today I looked at the commentary and really prayed over it. What an amazing verse! Stephen and I feel like it really speaks to our situation right now. Obviously, not exactly what David went through, but we feel God speaking to us through it.

We have so many well intentioned people, who we know care for us and are looking out for our best interest, tell us they can't believe our builders. "How can they just keep dragging y'all along? They should give you this, that or the other for free after all they have put you through!" We know what they mean. We have felt the same things at times but we also are choosing to focus on what God wants us to see in this situation. He wants us to extend grace and see not only ourselves but other people. There is a company, a family, employees that are affected by this. We are just waiting on a house, they are doing everything they can to not lose everything. We still feel that God lead us to this house and this time and He will not leave us here. He will deliver us.

We received further confirmation today from an email we got from our agent, Hope. Here is part of what she said.

"A builder I spoke to has been in business for 10 years and built luxury homes ($500K+) until last year. Now, he’s working on one house and doing remodeling jobs to keep him and his team from going bankrupt. He said that for the last 4-5 years, he’s had a business mastermind group with four other local builders, as a way to keep each other accountable on how their businesses were doing. As of last month, my friend is the only builder still in business. All three of the others ended up declaring bankruptcy because they couldn’t get construction loans any more.

My friend, said that if he or the other builders had been able to get some kind of private funding, it would have been a very different story. But since all of the money is controlled by the banks, they didn’t have any other options.

After he told me all of that, I took a deep breath and said a quick “thank you” prayer to God for bringing a private investor for your builder. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be finishing your house (hopefully in May)."

So thankful for a light at the end of our tunnel. Praying the same for our builders!

New Life

2011-04-24T09:00:00.004-04:00

"Why eggs? What do eggs have to do with Easter? Well, from a very long time ago, eggs have been considered the seed of life. Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, how he was raised from the dead. The Easter egg represents that new life." Taken from MOPS Page.

2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." (New American Standard Bible)

So thankful for Easter and the reason we celebrate! So thankful for the grace and mercy of Christ.

2 John 2-3 "because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father's Son, will be with us in truth and love." (NIV)

Handsome little men

2011-04-23T18:00:00.002-04:00

Oh how I love these sweet boys! Snapped some early picture of them in their Easter outfits. They actually cooperated for a moment which is a miracle! I'm sure we'll take more on Sunday but for now...enjoy!

They love to play together and pretend. Makes this Mama's heart sing!

Oh that smile, pure joy!

That Dennis the Menace hair and his laugh, steals my heart!

These boys bring so much to our lives! Our little rays of sunshine that make even the stormy days better!

Beautiful Things

2011-04-22T15:49:00.001-04:00

Thankful for the sacrifice that Christ made on the cross for us. He gave His life to make all things beautiful!

Beautiful Things by. Gungor

All this pain
I wonder if I’ll ever find my way
I wonder if my life could really change at all
All this earth
Could all that is lost ever be found
Could a garden come up from this ground at all

You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of the dust
You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of us

All around
Hope is springing up from this old ground
Out of chaos life is being found in You

You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of the dust
You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of us

You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of the dust
You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of us

You make me new, You are making me new
You make me new, You are making me new

You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of the dust
You make beautiful things
You make beautiful things out of us

Favorite #6

2011-04-22T12:00:00.001-04:00

This man.

(excuse the blurry image, it's from my phone)

How can he not be my favorite? Sadly, I'm afraid many women don't feel that their husbands are on their favorites list! Thankfully, I am blessed. Blessed with this man, that helps to calm my spirit and show me what life is about. We make such a great team that I often stand in awe of this partnership that God has given us! So very blessed!

Spring Craft Ideas

2011-04-21T13:39:00.003-04:00

Paper Bag Nests

from: Family Fun Magazine

Such cute little nests! Cute craft for anytime during the spring, but can teach kids about God making all things and creating new life through Him.

Empty Tomb Cookies
By: Food.com

Photo Credit: carolandbrianfletch.blogspot.com

I actually saw this in my Mops Magazine and really want to try it with the boys this year! Love the idea of teaching the boys are Jesus with a craft that will help them understand more.

Onion Skin Dyed Easter Eggs
By:How Does She

Photo Credit: Instructables

My Great Aunt Mable always dyed Easter Eggs this way. It's one of the things I miss about Easter now that she is gone. I'm going to try this with my boys this year. I so want to pass the things Aunt Mable taught me onto my kids. Such a heritage from that woman!

Fingerprint Flower Pots
By. Crafts.Kaboose.com

Such a sweet and easy craft for a rainy afternoon!

Play all day

2011-04-20T11:59:00.000-04:00

Isaac is beyond excited...

a playground has been added to our new neighborhood. Even though we haven't closed on our house yet we feel the drama has given us permission to play! :) So Stephen took the boys to play one day a few weeks ago. They are so excited about being able to play all the time when we finally move into our house. Looking forward to summer days filled with swimming in the pool and playing on the playground. Dreaming helps with this process. Especially the boys.

Tornado

2011-04-19T12:12:00.001-04:00

Weather is amazing and scary. I am scared to death of storms though I have calmed down a bit over the past few years. I don't want to pass my irrational fears onto my boys and I want them to know that we will be ok and mommy is not going to freak out. But let me tell you Saturday was something else. Thankfully I kept my head about me and it's a dang good thing that I didn't see any funnel clouds form over my head but I sure was looking. We were a good distance from the actual tornado's but it was scary at times.

If you are looking for ways to help just click here. They are a number of ways that you can volunteer or donate to those affected by the storm. Sometimes things like this put your life in perspective. So thankful for the little reminders that life is so very precious. All that we have is fleeting, we must be thankful for all that we have been blessed with.

Edited to include : Samaritans Purse is looking for local volunteers in the aftermath of the tornadoes in three of the worst hit counties in NC (including Wake County) and there is a number to call if anyone is interested in being part of a team or volunteering: 919-266-6333. It will likely be weeks before the clean up is complete and there may be a waiting list while as work orders are coming in. All tools and equipment are provided: volunteers bring the love of Christ through their labors of love

Our home, grace extended

2011-04-17T21:13:00.001-04:00

Y'all the Lord is working on teaching us some patience. It's almost comical at this point. In July 2010 we entered into contract with our builders (whom we love). Our close date was set for February 3 and we were so excited, we were building our own home. Excited about the amazing opportunity that was given to our family, for our boys, for our future. As you can tell, our close date has come and gone. A few times. We have struggled so much with all that this process has meant.

We closed on our old home at the end of August and moved in with my parents, for what we thought would be six months. Those six months have now turned into, eight months. Our faith has been stretched further then we thought possible. We don't know when this whole building process will end.

There are a few things we do know: 1) Our builder is doing the very best that they can. They are not just stringing us along and they are not taking advantage of us. The economy is bad and small builders were hit hard. 2) God is faithful. His timing is perfect. He brought us to this builder and this time in our lives. He will not leave us here. 3) We are blessed with an amazing support system without whom we would be lost. Our family, life group, friends, and real estate agent have blessed us in more ways then we will ever be able to tell them.

So here's to the rest of our journey! My plan is to share the good, the bad and the ugly from here on out. I want you to get a glimpse of what this building journey looks like for us!

Get ready it's gonna be interesting. Trust me.

MealBaby

2011-03-07T14:07:00.000-05:00

A great friend of mine is working for a website called, MealBaby. It is a free service that encourages friends to bring meals to those in need by helping to organize a meal calendar. How many times have you thought, I should really coordinate a meal for them, but man that takes way too much work. MealBaby.com is an online service that allows people to plan and organize all the details of a meal registry. Whether someone just had a new baby, is recovering from surgery or just need friends and family to bring meals, MealBaby is a free and easy way to make it happen. It was created by a stay-at-home-mom, Ginger, who is passionate about eating well and helping others.

So next time you feel like you should help someone with meals, go to MealBaby.com for help!

Homebirth, Midwives

2011-02-25T09:44:00.001-05:00

Hello my dear friends...hot topic time.

I would like to state before you read any further I don't judge anyone for the choices that they make in regards to how they have their babies. It is their choice, their choice - to choose pain meds or not, to choose homebirth, birth center, or hospital. To choose no medical intervention, little medical intervention or complete medical intervention. I believe women should be informed on their choices and not forced to choose one way or another. In the end a little life in born and it's a beautiful thing no matter what you decide is best for you!

In case you didn't know...I am a mother to two little boys. I had both of my boys in a hospital under the care of an OBGYN and nursing staff. I had both of my boys with out any pain meds and with little medical intervention. Because of some circumstances beyond our control I did need some assistance for my sons' well being. That being said, if we ever have a third baby our circumstances and better understanding of things may cause us to choose a different route. A route that is a bit more cost friendly, a route that allows for more freedom. I don't know where life will lead us but I do know that I should have the choice as well as the many women living in NC. I'm not sure homebirth would ever be what I would choose for myself because of the history I've had during birth but I believe I should have the option to have a safe homebirth with a certified midwife present. Without the fear of the midwife being arrested for helping me.

Currently in the state of NC it is illegal for certified professional midwives to be present during a homebirth. I am very new to this astounding issue but still learning. One of my friends that I have known since 7th grade and is still one of my dearest friends is teaching me a lot about the issues. She can share far better then I can. Please check out her recent post on the issue. She delivered her last little girl through homebirth and was going to choose to do the same this time. Until her midwife was arrested for practicing in NC. Now they have to decide their next option, this late in the game it's a scary place to be when you're pregnant.

I find it very sad that our government is wasting their time and money prosecuting a women that was helping mothers have a baby on their terms, safely! These midwives are trained professionals and know when a women needs help, they are not against getting women the help they need if they or the baby is in distress. But they believe that our bodies are made to have babies and should in normal circumstances not need medical intervention. God made us to have babies. Don't get me wrong, I believe in medicine and doctors and that God gave people the insight to create medicine, for the right circumstances. I also believe that God made birth and labor. If we give our bodies a chance, most times, we can do it on our own, safely.

Please join me in learning more about this issue and if you feel lead to do so, please sign the petition at the top of my blog. Women should have the choice to deliver their babies in a comfortable environment with a midwife present to make sure that it is done safely!

Jesus Paid it All

2011-02-08T14:42:00.000-05:00

(lyrics for this song are written by Hillsong)

I hear the Savior say
Thy strength indeed is small
Child of weakness watch and pray
Find in me thine all in all
Jesus paid it all
All to him I owe
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow
Lord now indeed I find
Thy power and thine alone
Can change the lepers spots
And melt the heart of stone
Jesus paid it all
All to him I owe
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow
It's washed away! All my sin! And all my shame!
And when before the throne
I stand in him complete
Jesus died my soul to save
My lips shall still repeat
Jesus paid it all
All to him I owe
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow
Oh praise the one who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead
Jesus paid it all
All to him I owe
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow

What an amazing reminder!!! My strength is small and so lacking but in HIM I find my all in all! What more do I need?! I have all that I will EVER need!

In Your Holy Name

2011-02-08T14:36:00.000-05:00

Dear Lord,

I am struggling today.
Looking for peace and hope in you,
not in the things of this world.
Looking for the good in all people and in this situation.
Longing to see what you are teaching us through this trial.
Being thankful in the entire situation and not just in the end result.
Longing to hear your voice and feel the hope that only you can give to settle on my soul.
Oh, Lord let me be a light in this situation.
Let me only speak what is right and true.
Let me speak goodness and show mercy and grace.
Let me love like you love.
Let me see less of myself in this and let me see more of you and others.
Let me not focus on my discomfort but the needs of others.
Oh, Lord, thank you for what you are teaching me.
Thank you for the blessings your are pouring on our family.
Thank you for the opportunity to show your love to others!
Thank you for a roof over our head, thank you for all the luxuries that we have!
Please Lord, help me focus on goodness!

In your precious name!

House Update

2011-02-03T15:08:00.001-05:00

I guess we should start with the obvious question. What's up with your house? I thought you were building. We are building a house and are still living with my parents while we wait for it's completion.

This is the current state of our new house. Unfortunately the current state of the bank system is affecting our building process. We should be seeing more progress soon! Praying so anyways. We have a new close date of March 25. Praying that this new close date sticks.

We're here

2011-02-03T14:47:00.000-05:00

I promise. Just wading our way through this thing called life. Learning lots of lessons but making our way none the less. It's been forever since I've even gotten out the camera and taken pictures of the boys. Bad mommy. Honestly the Lord is working on me and teaching me so much. I'm trying so hard not to miss a thing. I've started three blog posts but have trouble finding the words to make sense. I'll post them soon, be prepared for the blatant honesty.

Until then...

Christmas Cards

2010-11-17T16:16:00.000-05:00

I've wanted to do Christmas cards since Stephen and I got married. Unfortunately, it's never happened, either I lose track of time and before I know it, Christmas has come and gone and no card has gone out. Or I have a specific idea in mind for my cards and I just don't seem to get the money together in time. Until this year, thanks to a promotion being sponsored by shutterfly where they are offering 50 free greeting cards to bloggers. What a great idea! Now I just need to get my booty in gear.

Last year we made photo magnets for the great-grandparents and they were a hit. I love the idea of sending gifts that are not only useful but also have a piece of our family in it. Maybe this year we'll make calendars. The only problem I usually run into is what pictures do I want to use. Of course I'm a little biased but I think all the pictures we've taken of the boys the past year are great. How do you share a whole year in just a few pictures. So much has happened this past year that I want to share with all of our family. Maybe a photo book is more along the lines of what I'm looking for. Either way, any pictures I send, the family will love them!

So, back to my Christmas cards. I've narrowed my choices down to this card. I love the design on the card that we can include more then one picture. I plan to also include a nice letter that just reconnects us to family and friends and fills them in on all that's happened this past year. We have been so blessed this year and are so thankful! What better time of year to share your joy that at Christmas.

Holy Blog Break

2010-11-16T09:37:00.000-05:00

Sorry, for all that have been waiting with baited breath for an update. HAHA! I took a bit of an unplanned break from blogging. There hasn't been any progress on the house and to be honest it's put me in a bit of a funk. I'm just longing for something to happen at the lot and when it hasn't happened it's a left me feeling like somethings missing. I have come to the conclusion from the help of my wonderful husband and the last few messages at our church that God's got it under control. Obviously, I've known this but for whatever reason I let myself forget. The building of our house is NOT happening on my schedule, we would be in it right now if it was but it is happening the exact way HE knew it would. God has me in this place of limbo for a reason, so I can either dig my heels in and let is ruin my mood until the Lord only knows. Or I can be thankful for the roof over my head and the things that He is trying to grow in me.

So that's where I'm at. No where glamorous and definitely not in a place I've been proud of. I haven't liked the person I've been so here's to working on being the one Jesus longs for me to be! Even in the middle of limbo (a place I wish to avoid like the plague, I love structure which is lacking greatly) Jesus wants me to be the best me. Not the me I'm settling for because I'm throwing a tantrum over my circumstances.

So hears to that and to me blogging more!

Until then!

House Update

2010-10-20T13:48:00.001-04:00

Sorry it's been so long since I updated. We had a bit of a scare with Eli and after a trip to the ER with breathing problems we're doing a lot better! We're so thankful that he's doing better and for the prayers from our family and friends.

The house is coming along. The foundation is completely done and we have been told framing will begin by the end of this week, beginning of next week! We're very excited, the framing process should only take about 2 - 3 weeks! I can see the end in sight and it feels good! I'm starting to dream of interior colors and plans for what the house will be like! VERY EXCITING!!!


Footers for the foundation

It's looking like a house!

Wait and See

2010-09-27T20:02:00.000-04:00

There is a song that Stephen loves. It's called "Wait and See" by Brandon Heath. He put it on our iPod the other day and on our way to bible study he played it for me and told me it was a song about him. I have been listening to it on repeat every time I'm alone just taking in the words. The words that spoke to my husband, the words that he feels define him. It seems like a window to his soul. An amazing gift.

"I was born in Tennessee
Late July humidity
Doctor said I was lucky to be alive

I’ve been trouble since the day that I got here
Trouble till the day that I disappear
That’ll be the day that I finally get it right

There is hope for me yet
Because God won’t forget
All the plans he’s made for me
I have to wait and see
He’s not finished with me yet

I never really was that good in school
I talked too much, broke the rules
Teacher thought I was hopeless fool alright

I don’t know how but I made it through
It’s one of those things that you’ve gotta do
But I always had a knack for telling the truth

Still wondering why I’m here
Still wrestling with my fear
But oh, He’s up to something
And the farther on I go
I’ve seen enough to know
That I’m, not here for nothing
He’s up to something

So now’s my time to be a man
Follow my heart as far as I can
No telling where I’m ending up tonight
I never slow down or so it seems
But singing my heart it’s one of my dreams
All I gotta do is hold on tight"

Stephen, I love seeing your soul! I know and believe that God is doing mighty things through you and will continue to do so! I feel so blessed to be with you on this journey, cheering you on and seeing all the things that God does in your life, in our life. I LOVE that I get to be a part of it! I love that God picked me to be your wife, to walk with you and be part of the plans that He has made for you! We'll hold on tight together!

Apple Pickin'

2010-09-24T12:50:00.003-04:00

The boys and I went with some great friends to pick apples this week! It's not too far from here and we had a great time. Isaac was so proud to fill up his bag and pick them "myself". Sometimes I wish I could stop time, make him stop growing and drink in these moments and never let them pass. Eli loved just walking around the orchard trying to pick up the rotten apples off the ground, yuck! Luckily he never got one.

Isaac, Caroline and Kaelyn


Isaac and Eli trying the apples

After we picked apples we had a little picnic and played on the the tire swing. The bees were loving the sweetness of Eli's Pear Butter sandwich so I ended up taking it from him. They were crawling up his arm which made me a little nervous, he was fine with just eating his crackers!

When we were done eating Isaac and Caroline pushed each other on the tire swing. I love seeing him interact with his friends and love them well. He has such a sweet heart and is normally so loving and caring to people! We also made sure to get some pictures of Eli in the swing, I think he enjoyed it too!

Isaac and Caroline

Campbell and Eli

Kaelyn, Isaac and Caroline

Eli is a lot like his momma

2010-09-24T12:19:00.000-04:00

I have always wanted what I want and if I don't get it watch out, I see the same in Eli. My mom tells stories about how I would throw myself on the floor and kick and scream trying to get my way. I know at times I still have "tantrums" when things aren't going my way. I know that God is really working on my heart with this. I can see Him putting me in situations trying to change my heart and focus on His plans for my life, His will. I pray that God continues to work on my heart and that I will allow Him to mold me and that I can be an example to my sweet E-bug! So I can teach him things I've had to learn along the way and that I can learn ways to direct his little heart. He has such a sweet loving spirit, I pray that that is what blossoms in him!

Cool Tricks, Cool Tricks

2010-09-23T12:29:00.003-04:00

Isaac is a fan of Yo Gabba Gabba, especially the section where kids do cool tricks. Isaac loves to do "stunts" on his bike. Sometimes I'm not sure I was cut out to be a mom to boys, I'm a worrier. I try so hard to not be that crazy mom that tells her boys all the time not to do something for fear of what could happen. I really don't want to hold him back and break his little spirit for adventure. That being said, he knows not to do these tricks without an adult around to spot him and I'm working on convincing him to wear his bike helmet when he does them. HAHA! As you can see, that's not working! :)

Without further ado, Stunt man Isaac!

Yes, the Lightning McQueen underwear really do add something to the stunt show! :)

Picture Post as promised

2010-09-23T12:16:00.002-04:00

I know that ya'll are just dying to hear/see more about the house. I promise I'll blog about something else soon, just excited!

Tony the builder

2010-09-22T15:12:00.003-04:00

We went by the lot last night and talked to, Tony the builder (as Isaac affectionately calls him). He was there working, digging the holes for the footers. He said he had come to drop off the permits and decided to help dig. I love that, I love that the President of our builder will take the time to help out, because he loves it. He said digging the footers is his favorite part of the whole process. I love that our builder is a small family company that loves what they do. You can see the love in all of the houses that they build and I truly believe that is what sets them apart. We are going by later tonight to take more pictures of the progress, last night they looked very busy and we didn't want to disturb them by taking pictures. The inspection box is now up at the lot and things are looking very official and like they are really beginning to happen. I can feel the excitement growing inside of me! Can't wait to see it spring up from the ground! So blessed!
(I'll post pictures tomorrow)

Progress

2010-09-17T12:33:00.003-04:00

Consignment Sale

2010-09-13T12:20:00.000-04:00

There is a great consignment sale coming to Apex, NC! You don't want to miss it!

www.the2ndlookboutique.com

Our Stake

2010-08-17T12:55:00.002-04:00

I've been over to our lot numerous times to see if any progress has been made, but have kept forgetting to take my camera, until last night. Sadly no progress has been made at the lot yet except to stake out a tree removal limit on all sides of our lot. Which I'm really happy about the amount of trees so far that are going to be left. The builders are in the process of getting all the permits and then will start the process of clearing the lot and laying the foundation. At that time they will map out where the house will go and mark the trees that will need to be removed in the center of the lot. They will have us come out and give our ok before they remove any trees and then things will begin to happen.

Until then, this is what our new "house" looks like.

Moving

2010-08-13T11:20:00.001-04:00

Oh boy, we are in the throngs of moving, we close on our house at the end of this month. I've been packing a few boxes each day and feel like our house is beginning to be taken over by all the boxes. We are building a house just a few miles away. It won't be finished until the beginning of February so we will be living with my parents in the mean time. We are getting a storage unit next week and will begin moving everything then. Our goal is to be out of the house in plenty of time to have it nice and clean for the lady buying it. We're nice like that! ;)

Isaac has been talking about how he's sad that this won't be his house anymore. He also has been acting out a little bit and I think it's because he feels his little world is changing. I'm trying to show some grace towards him but it's rather difficult. Lucy, the dog, is also acting strangely, I think she's getting a bit scared from the changes. Eli is his normal crazy little self, so far not affected by the changes. Please be praying for our little family through this time.

We went this past week and picked out all the details of our new house. It was so much fun but so tiring. We picked carpet, hard woods, counter tops, etc. It's so fun to picture everything and dream of the day when we move in. I'm hoping to get over to our lot before they cut down any of the trees and take some pictures. I plan on keeping everyone up to date through the blog. So if you're interested in hearing details about the building process check back here.

Favorite #5

2010-08-13T11:04:00.000-04:00

Blue Birds

I have an obsession with them right now. I have no tattoos but I have been debating on getting a tattoo of a bluebird. The bluebird symbolizes happiness and fulfillment.

I think they are the most beautiful of all birds and so graceful! The colors on a bluebird are just so rich. I really think I could just sit and watch them all day! So peaceful.

Celebration

2010-08-09T12:58:00.000-04:00

I've said it once and I'll say it again, my husband amazes me! He has such an amazing natural talent! Take a look at this cake he made for the boys birthday party.

We had a little party with our family and it was perfect. Just a great way to celebrate all the changes we've had in the past year and celebrate the joy that the boys bring to our lives. It's hard to believe my little sweet men are growing so quickly!

Blessing in a Black Pit

2010-08-04T20:36:00.000-04:00

"When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul." Psalm 94:19

I have been avoiding this post for some time now. I've felt lead to share this part of my life, this struggle that I've had since I was a little girl. I have no idea who reads this blog, besides my family but perhaps the Lord is prompting me so that my struggle can help someone else.

Often times even to this day I've wondered why God would allow this sort of problem to plague my daily life. I have just recently been reminded that if I let it, it can be a blessing. I've been given a gift that reminds me that I can NOT do anything without Jesus.

I can remember having some sort of anxiety since I was in 3rd grade. At the time I had no idea that that was what it was but I knew it was something. It all started with, I believe a test. A test I felt unprepared for and apparently scared that I wouldn't do well on. That night I jumped out of bed and ran to the bathroom and threw up. So it began from the time I was roughly 8 years old I had an overwhelming sense of anxiety. Anxiety over little things to giant things. I just kept thinking that I was getting stomach bugs, I would feel sick to my stomach and before I knew it I was throwing up and laying beside my mom in bed. She would hold me close, tell me I would feel better in the morning. I would start to feel better return to bed and feel totally fine in the morning.

I started to notice it was something a little more then stomach bugs when I was in high school. I went away on a missions trip to Mexico the summer after my junior year. I got sick and threw up many times while we were there. I have no idea how it came up but I was talking to one of the leaders while we were there, Matt Crump. He was in charge of our worship while we were there and he started talking to me about fear. He told me that Jesus did not give us a spirit of fear. I know what he was saying was absolutely true but I just couldn't make it stop.

I began to live my life knowing that when something made me scared, something was new, I was going to travel or be away from my normal life that I would get sick and throw up It was just my life and I just knew that it was how things were. I didn't like it, in fact, I hated it with my very being. It controlled me and I hated it.

At one point after I had graduated from high school I realized I needed someone to tell me I wasn't crazy and there was something that could stop it. I met with a Christian Psychologist and told him what happened. I shared some back stories about my life and told him my triggers. He put a name on my disease, Situational Anxiety Disorder. I left our meeting feeling, a little more free. He said that I just really needed to stop and pray in those moments and really give it to the Lord. Like ok, it's a real problem it has a name but easier said then done. I continued on with my life how it was but things got a little better. One Sunday, at the church I was going to at the time, we had a service where they talked about putting our burdens on the cross. The had brought in a wood cross and put it at the front of the sanctuary. We could feel free during a song to go and write on a piece of paper and put it on the cross. I remember sitting in my seat feeling prompted to nail it to the cross and leave it there. It wasn't my burden to carry and if I was going to live my life the way that God intended I HAD to leave it there. I walked to the front and left my anxiety on the cross. I handed it over and my life has not been the same since. I can count on my hand in the last 6-7 year how many times my anxiety has taken over and I've thrown up.

It is a daily battle that I still struggle with, it's all about control. Satan knows how he can get to me if I let him. I have to remember that I'm not in control. I can not control whether or not Eli is going to get sick and I will have to take him to the ER. I can not control if we go on vacation something horrible will happen while we're away. I just have to believe that the Lord has only good things in mind for me and that He will bring good from everything. I know that He doesn't promise my life to be easy and that hard times will come. But He does promise that He will walk with me through everything, He will hold my hand. I just have to let Him.

"Cast ALL your anxiety on Him because He cares for you" 1 Peter 5:7

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to the Lord. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" Phillippians 4:6-7

Favorite #4

2010-08-03T22:56:00.002-04:00

Camp Burton - Burton, OH

Man, where do I even begin with this one. This is a place that my heart hurts just thinking about, missing those moments and summers that the world was just as it should be. I started spending a week a summer at Camp Burton when I was in elementary school. I volunteered two summers at Camp Burton when I was in high school and by junior year of high school I was busy with life here that I never went back. Sometimes I really wish I had been able to go work there for a whole summer but it wasn't meant to be.

I truly believe that Camp Burton changed who I am, it's a place that I know shaped my being and what I believe about Jesus. It's a place that helped create my foundation in Him. It's a place where I met one of my dearest friends, someone that I know I will be friends with forever.

I pray with all of my being that I can send my boys to a place like Camp Burton. Maybe one day my boys with go to Camp Burton.

Coming Back

2010-08-03T22:08:00.000-04:00

I've been on a bit of a blogging hiatus but I've got a lot of things swimming around in this little brain of mine. So get ready...I'll be back soon. More "Favorite" posts and some other things that I really believe have been laid on my heart to share.

Eli's Top Ten

2010-07-27T12:42:00.001-04:00

Eli loves...

10) Walking/Running
9) Playing with his big brother
8) His stuffed monkey's
7) Music
6) Eating
5) Cars
4) Little People toys
3) Isaac
2) Mommy
1) Daddy

July 27, 2009

2010-07-27T12:38:00.001-04:00

Eli Westin, my sweet little monkey! You came into this world 'causing much excitement and you've continued that trend. You've always done things when you wanted to and have never let anyone convince you to do it differently. You were born 10 days early, you started walking at 11 months, got your first tooth at 11 months and four more since. You know what you want and we better get on board or forget it! :) You have brought such joy to our lives!

This past year has flown by and I've just had to hold on for dear life to keep up! You want to do EVERYTHING your big brother is doing and you get so frustrated when you can't! I pray that you learn in your life that you were created to be Eli and not Isaac.

I pray that God continues to grow the sweet spirit I see in you! Your smile can brighten any day and your pretty willing to share it with most people! I pray that that always continues!

You, my sweet E-bug, are exactly what my heart was praying for when you were growing in my belly! You amaze me every single day and I love watching you grow and learn more about the world!

Mommy loves you so very much!

Top Ten

2010-07-20T07:05:00.000-04:00

Top Ten Things that Isaac loves:

10) Choo-Choo Trains
9) Race Cars
8) All things music (dancing, playing drums, playing guitar, etc.)
7) Being with friends and family
6) His Puppy, Lucy
5) Playing with tools and fixing things
4) Going to church to see his friends
3) Going to the bakery for cookies
2) Playing with Eli
1) Having mommy and daddy's attention

July 20, 2007 6:31am

2010-07-20T06:55:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday, Sweet Boy!

Three years ago, I was holding you for the first time and dreaming of all you'd be!

You have exceeded all of my expectations!

You think your daddy hung and the moon and always feel safe when he is close by.

You want to grow up and make cakes like dada, be a firefighter and a doctor.

You are determined in everything you do but get so frustrated when things don't go your way!

You love your little brother with such passion that sometimes it's overwhelming for Eli!

You're little mind is always working and thinking of things we will do next.

You are a worrier and always want to make sure everything is ok.

I pray that you learn that God is always in control and will always make everything great!

I could not imagine the joy and laughter that you have brought into our lives in three short years!

I am so proud to be your mommy and I am honored that God choose me!

I love you with all of my being and pray for your heart!

Love, Mommy

Quick little update

2010-07-14T15:24:00.000-04:00

Just a quick little update for myself to keep track and also for family living far away.

Eli is now walking, waving and saying "hey" (when he feels like it) and clapping. He is into everything and just the sweetest thing ever! Whenever he's playing he comes up to me every few minutes for a little hug. Just needs to check in with his Momma, warms my heart every single time! He's also sick again . Poor baby had to go to the ER Friday night with trouble breathing. They gave him an hour long breathing treatment, some steroids, motrin, tylenol and then another 10 minute breathing treatment before sending us home. Today is the first day he has yet to have a breathing treatment. We also went to his Doctor on Monday and turns out he also has a double ear infection! My poor baby, just praying he's on the mend now! He doesn't seem to be bothered at all so that makes this all a bit easier!

Isaac and Eli are currently sharing a room in anticipation of a visit from friends from TN. They are staying with us and will be staying in Eli's room. We sold our house and are closing on August 31. We are going to be building and will close on the new house February 2. In the meantime we will be staying with my parents where the boys will be sharing a room. They have done pretty well so far, with just a little trouble yesterday at nap time and then last night at bed time. Today's nap time went much better!

Isaac is being an awesome big brother. He loves to play with Eli and I think is really enjoying sharing a room with him now! He loves to help me give Eli his breathing treatments by turning on the nebulizer and then keeping Eli entertained if he needs it. He's working on his colors whenever I have a time to work with him. Since Eli has been sick, sadly colors have not been on the priority list. He's got red down pat and loves to point out all things that are red. He's all things transportation!!! He's also started telling us that he's going to be a doctor when he gets big. No idea where that came from, but we'll take it! :)

Just a few more days and Isaac will be three and Eli will be one. I'm hoping to have a chance to update the blog on their birthday's!

Until then.

Favorite #3

2010-07-07T11:47:00.000-04:00

Joy in Hope - Jacmel, Haiti

"Joy In Hope’s vision is to support, encourage, and build Haitian families in order to provide them with the spiritual, educational, cultural and physical foundation needed to impact their community, their nation, and the world for Christ. Joy In Hope accomplishes its mission through three branches of ministry: children’s homes, churches and schools and numerous outreach efforts such as educational programs, evangelism, feeding and nutritional programs and medical clinics. Each of these avenues allows Joy In Hope to provide a Christ-centered model for serving in the local community." -Exert from Joy in Hope website

I love the vision of Joy In Hope and I love Haitian Children's Home. To learn more about Joy in Hope and the Haitian Children's Home please visit their website! I've blogged about the families involved on the ground previously on my blog. You can click on the labels on the bottom of this post to read more. My words can not do justice to the work that is happening in Haiti!

Safe Repost from The Livesay Haiti Blog

2010-06-18T09:45:00.002-04:00

I've been following this blog for a while now. They live in Port Au Prince, Haiti and were there during the earthquakes. Circumstances have brought them back to the states but they long to return to Haiti.

Tara made this post today and WOW! I wanted to share it with you all!

The following was all posted by Tara Livesay. To continue to follow the Livesay Blog please click here.

Safe

Family One - Just moved into one of the roughest areas of their city with known drug activity and higher crime rates - Building relationships in their neighborhood in Texas.

Safe?

Family Two- He quit his long time job as missions pastor at a mega-church to work full time in an impoverished neighborhood in North Carolina acting as a surrogate Dad to many fatherless children. Each week on several occasions he and his wife open their home to allow kids a place for fellowship, biblical teaching, and a place to rest and be loved.

Safe?

Family Three- He was a senior pastor of a medium sized Baptist church for many years. He quit his paying secure job with benefits to work with the broken, hurting, homeless and lost in a central Texas RV-park.

Safe?

Family Four- Uncertain of exactly where they should go, they are preparing to investigate a full-time ministry role in Peru and have sold many of their earthly belongings in preparation for the move. Safe?

The safest place to be is in God's will.

We once believed that this meant no harm would come to us or our family if we were at least attempting to follow Jesus to the best of our ability. These days that is seeming pretty shallow, wrong, and fairly self-centered. Why should it be easy and where did we get that cock-eyed idea anyway?

Things happen. There are challenges. Darkness attacks.

We're slowly learning that He heals, that He turns things intended for evil into things He can and does use for good, but mostly in the battle against darkness and injustice there are no easy pathways of 100% guaranteed protection ... because this is war and war is not without cost. In truth we've come to a place of recognition that our safety is not something we should cling to so tightly.

Does this mean we are never fearful?
No.
We experience seasons of doubt and fear. We fear losing our children in Haiti. I find myself spinning tales in my mind of the horrible way I might lose one of them. I wonder how awful it will be to know that my choice to live in a place without great medical care could ultimately result in a death. At times it makes me want to tuck-tail and run back to a place I perceive as safe. But in my rational mind I know that I could lose them anywhere and at anytime - and that sometimes in order to follow Christ - increased risk and uncertainty will be necessary - and possibly even required.

I want to learn to be less fearful. I desire to be wise but not necessarily "safe". I want to believe that my friends who are walking away from their safety-nets will be provided for in miraculous ways. I want to trust fully in my Father's ability to get me through whatever the future holds; the mountains, the valleys, the good, the bad, through war or darkness.

From Radical - David Platt writes -

Jesus told them, "Go to great danger, and let it be said of you what people would say of sheep wandering into the middle of wolves. They're crazy! They're clueless! They have no idea what kind of danger they are getting into!" This is what it means to be my disciple. We don't think like this. We say things such as, "The safest place to be is in the center of God's will." We think, if it's dangerous, God must not be in it. If it's risky, if it's unsafe, if it's costly, it must not be God's will. But what if these factors are actually the criteria by which we determine something IS God's will? What if we began to look at the design of God as the most dangerous option before us? What if the center of God's will is in reality the most unsafe place for us to be?

Favorite #2

2010-06-17T12:01:00.000-04:00

Chubby Babies

I have been blessed with two chubby little boys! I love rolly polly babies! There is just something about big cheeks and fat rolls on babies that just makes me smile! My boys were not and are not lacking in this department at all! In fact Eli is right in the middle of his chubby phase and I could just eat him up!

Seriously check our these rolls. Isaac 2008

I know this picture is blurry but check our those little baby boobies. Eli 2010

Isaac's giant cheeks kill me! I miss kissing those giant things.

Eli is definitely not as chunky but his cheeks are big and those thighs!

Eli has the sweetest face! My goodness!

Isaac was just chunk city! I love it!

New Hope Valley Railroad

2010-06-09T14:15:00.001-04:00

Just a picture post.

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-01T15:30:00.043-04:00

Oh. my. word. My husband is such a romantic, but shhh, don't tell him I told you! ;) Before we left to go out of town Friday afternoon we spent some time with the boys running errands for our trip. I didn't have time to drink coffee before we went out so we went by Stick Boy so I could get a cup. Stephen said he would run in and get it for me and I could stay in the car with the boys. When he came out of the bakery with a box, I thought he had gotten some treats for our trip. Wrong. He had made a miniature replica of our wedding cake! I started to cry as soon I looked in the box! He is so amazing! We unfortunately never got a picture of it! But let me tell you it was absolutely perfect and tasted great as well!

Around 1pm, May 28th we kissed our little bugs good-bye and headed to the Great Smoky Mountains!

We took this picture on the way up the mountain. We were so thankful for all the uninterrupted time that we had to talk!

The campground was a little more non-campy then we expected (read-no privacy and no where to build a fire) but we decided to make the best of our neighbors being immediately next to us! We set up camp and ate an amazing dinner made on our grill, steak and corn on the cob. We settled in for the night and fell asleep to the sounds of the ducks in the creek behind out tent.

Saturday.we went to Dolly Wood. It was a lot of fun but we found ourselves seeing lots of things we wished the boys were there to enjoy. Oh the life of being parents! :) We rode on the train and talked a lot about bringing the boys here next year. We love roller coasters and there are some pretty good ones there to ride. It was so nice to just spend time just the two of us, having fun and only worrying about us!

By Sunday we were ready to come home and see our little munchkins! So we hurried home and got back around 3pm. Stephen and I had such great conversation it was such a blessing to us both! Exactly what we needed. An awesome way to celebrate our anniversary!

When we got home we decided to enjoy the smores we weren't able to eat at the campsite. Eli really enjoyed the graham crackers.

Isaac wasn't so sure at first but ended up enjoying them and Lucy enjoyed cleaning the mess off his face!

On Monday, Stephen took the day off so we had a nice day as a family. While Eli napped Isaac helped Daddy wash the car. Lucy wanted to par-take in the fun as well!

An amazing weekend for sure! Thanks again mom and dad for watching the boys!

Dear Stephen,

2010-05-27T12:03:00.001-04:00

5 years ago you became my husband, it feels like an eternity and it feels like just yesterday!

You are an amazing husband and father, more then I could have ever dreamed! You make our life fun and exciting by all of your dreams and plans. You provide for all our needs, you work so hard everyday.

You make me feel beautiful and special! As beautiful as I did on the day we got married.

On the days that all I want is to be grumpy, you find a way to make me laugh! You are my best friend and all that I could ever want!

I can't wait to see what the next 5 years bring us! I love you so very much!

(our anniversary is May, 28 but Stephen and I are going away tomorrow for the weekend. Just the two of us, so I'm posting a day early)

My sweet Boys

2010-05-25T11:24:00.001-04:00

Isaac and Eli,

Sometimes I just watch you both and can't believe you're mine! Last night I was thinking about all the things I hope and pray for you. I wanted to write them down so that someday you can see what your momma thought so long ago for you!

I pray that you always have a passion for life. That you dream big and go after you dreams with all that is in you! Know that your Daddy and I will always be here to cheer you and on and be here to encourage you in all things! I pray that you fall in love one day and that you respect your wife like no other! That you realize that your wife is a gift from God. I pray that you have a heart for the Lord and that you look to Him to guide you in all things! I pray that you have compassion for everyone and that you realize that you are not better then anyone. That every person is equal and loved by God! I pray that you have a heart that wants to help people and that you have a giving spirit. I pray that you have courage to always stand for what you believe in and that you fight for the truth.

Eli I pray that you use your strong will for good and that you submit to the Lord and to your mommy and daddy. Always remember that we want good things for you and are trying to direct you to that. Isaac I pray that you always keep your laughter and that you continue to make people laugh, just remember to use compassion when making jokes.

I love you boys so very much! I pray protection over you daily but know that God is holding you tight! You are truly such a gift to me and a blessing beyond my wildest dreams!

I will always love you and dream big dreams for you! Never take anything for granted and know that each day is a precious gift and everything you have is a gift!

Love,

Your Mommy

Favorite #1

2010-05-19T20:51:00.000-04:00

So I've decided that sometimes I have a lack of things to blog about when it comes to my day to day life. So I thought I would start blogging about some favorites of mine. Favorite blogs, sites, organizations, books, music, places, you name it and at some point I'll probably blog about it.

So today I'm starting with Warren, Pennsylvania.

photo courtesy of:
http://www.lockport-ny.com/Allegheny/Warren_PA_Downtown.jpg

I lived in this little town from the time I was born until I was 13 years old. Mind you when I say "little town" I mean little town. Both of my parents were born and raised in Warren, PA and a lot of my family still call Warren home. There is such a small town feel to Warren and it always reminds me of simpler times. Perhaps it's because when I lived there I was a child and didn't know anything of the hard times that surround this dying little town but it's still a piece of me. I remember sitting in the third floor(my bedroom) of our house looking out the front window and watching the light change from green to red a few blocks from my house. It was winter so you could see down the hill and through the trees. I remember just thinking about life and what the next day of middle school would bring. Life just made sense then, it was easy. When I was 13 my parents decided to move to North Carolina. At the time I thought my life had ended and that I would surely die from being ripped from my family, friends and the only life I had even known. Obviously, I didn't die and life here in NC was more amazing then I could even have imagined, not always easy but great none the less.

I still get a little ache in my heart every time my mind wonders to those days, to that life. Warren is the type of town where you are bound to see someone you know or are related to if you walk around town. Growing up everyone knew my family and I couldn't have gotten away with anything. I loved that, I loved being known and being a part of a family that people knew and respected. (Well maybe at the time I didn't love not being able to get away with anything) I loved going to school with my cousins and spending the night at my aunts' houses. I loved getting together with ALL of the family for holiday's and birthday's. I loved dancing for my Aunt Linda's dance studio and living a block from my cousin Laurie. I loved being able to walk to school, ride my bike to church and just be a kid!

I'm taking the boys to Warren at the end of June. I'm so looking forward to introducing Eli to some of our family that haven't met him yet and sharing a part of my soul and heart with both boys. I'm planning on meeting up with old friends that I haven't seen in years; on drinking in the warmth of the summer days with no humidity. Spending time being with my family and showing the little men what it means to be a part of something. A part of something bigger then ourselves, part of something that grabs a hold of you and that will never let you go. Warren will always be a part of me and it will always be home!

Middle of May?!

2010-05-17T12:49:00.000-04:00

Holy Moly, where has the month gone?

The bakery has been bustling lately. Which is awesome! Stephen has been busy with cakes, wedding cakes, birthday cakes, all different types of cakes. I am always in awe of his work, he is truly amazing! If you are looking for a birthday cake, baby shower, wedding cake, give Stick Boy a call!

The boys are keeping us VERY busy these days.

- Isaac loves to bounce from one activity to another and leaves a mass destruction in his path. He's talking pretty much none stop these days, which I love but sometimes quiet would be nice! :) He's into ALL things boy and loves to play race cars and build towers with blocks just to knock them down. He really likes to go outback and mow the grass like his daddy, play in his water table and water the plants outback. He is so sweet and enjoys to cuddle with Lucy and his mommy. He is a great big brother, he is almost always willing to share and help Eli.

- Eli is crawling and pulling up on everything. Yesterday he took his first step and is already standing not holding onto things. He is babbling and saying, dada, baba and has started clapping and says "yeah" while he claps. He always cheers when Isaac is running or doing anything that impresses him. He has such a sweet spirit about him but is also quite strong willed.

I love being a mommy to my two sweet boys! I am so blessed to be able to stay at home with them. Stephen asked Isaac what he wanted to get me for Mother's Day. Isaac insisted on a movie and wouldn't stop talking about getting me a movie until Stephen took him to the store to pick one out. He is such a sweetheart!

Stephen and I are going away at the end of the month to celebrate our 5 year wedding anniversary! We are going to go camping in Pigeon Forge, TN and go to Dolly Wood. The boys are going to stay with my parents and I'm so looking forward to time with Stephen. It's hard to believe it's been 5 years, so much has happened in the past 5 years. I could not imagine sharing my life with any other man!

Picture Update

2010-04-19T12:38:00.001-04:00

Oh my goodness! Could my little bunnies be any sweeter!?!

I can not stand how cute my boys are! I could just eat them up! Love them!!!

Easter Week

2010-04-05T12:39:00.001-04:00

Seriously I don't think the weather could have been any more perfect this week! This kind of weather just makes me want to get out and enjoy the blessings I have. ie. my family. Sometimes when I look around me I am left breathless! I have an amazing husband that works so hard to provide for us that I'm often left wondering how he has enough energy. I also have two amazing little boys who keep me on my toes but fill my heart with so much! My cup just overflows!

This week we celebrated Easter. One of my favorite holidays and one that I couldn't be more thankful for. With all of the Easter bunnies, candy and colored eggs, it's often easy to forget truly why we are celebrating. It is because of the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made on the cross for us that we can truly celebrate! Thank you God for the amazing gift that you have given me and my family in your death on the cross.

I was able to spend a lot of time with my parents, Tom and Marilee. They live in the area but had three days off this week while my aunt and uncle, Dick and Dusky, were in town from PA. I am so blessed to have such supportive parents. I can never thank them enough for the love that they pour out for Stephen, Isaac, Eli and I. Stephen's parents, Tom and Barb, came into town from Boone, NC on Saturday and I was able to spend some time with Barb. She came over Saturday afternoon while Stephen was at work delivering a wedding cake. It was nice just spending time talking and playing with the boys. Another blessing from the weekend.

Easter Sunday we worshiped with our church family, Crosspointe Church. Our entire church community met for one service at Koka Booth Amphitheater. To say it was an awesome experience just feels less then it truly was. It was hot sitting in the sun but it didn't matter because it was just great to all be in one place. We were also joined by my parents, Stephen's parents, Josh and Katie and our dear friends Candice and Robby! It just made the experience all the sweeter to have our family with us!

I've found myself saying and noticing a lot lately how blessed I truly am. We don't have worldly riches but are rich in so many other ways. We have a supportive family, healthy beautiful boys and amazing friends that we can count on near and far away! Thank you Jesus, for your death on the cross and thank you for the blessing you have given me here on this earth!

E-bug

2010-04-05T12:18:00.001-04:00

My sweet little bean, so determined to do all the things his big brother does.

A smile that melts my heart in a way that nothing in this world can!

The beautiful blue eyes filled with so much wonder for the world around him.

A curiosity that can not be quenched until he has explored things himself.

His tender heart still evident and his stubbornness becoming ever present!

This sweet little soul is taking the world by storm. He has a determination that I have never seen before and such a strong will. I am praying for the amazing things that he is going to do in this world!

Rugrat

2010-04-05T11:56:00.001-04:00

Isaac my wild little boy! He loves, juice and milk and cuddling with his momma when he's watching his "shows"

a little ham that loves to laugh and see you laughing.

Funny face maker,

bottom lip sucked in when ever he ponders the world

crazy little creature that has captured my heart...

with all of his tantrums and rambunctious spirit. Pieces of his mommy's stubbornness, love of the dramatic, compassion for others and pieces of his daddy's love of cars, drumming and getting a laugh at all costs!

He's mine, all mine!

"She's gonna steal your rake"

2010-03-25T12:04:00.000-04:00

Isaac and Lucy love to be outside and play! Lucy especially loves to play with Isaac's toys and chase Isaac!

Lucy really wanted to try her paw at golfing but had a hard time hitting the ball! Isaac decided to show her how it's done!

Lucy really wanted Isaac's rake, as you can see in the picture of above she waited until the perfect moment to pounce and steal it from him!

Even though having a puppy makes things a little more crazy around here, days like today makes it all worth it! Lucy has added so much to our little family and I can't think of anything better!

Eli decided that a nap was a better plan for him! Poor baby is trying to fight off a cold!

Pep Talk

2010-03-05T10:26:00.000-05:00

There is a blog that I follow called, Dear Baby. I actually went to high school with her but never knew her, just knew who she was. She lives in San Francisco now and write this fantastic blog. Today I read a post she wrote that I really need to hear right now! She is SO right, so I want to share it with you.

Melissa wrote:

This is a pep talk for myself more than any one else but I’m posting it here, because maybe other mamas need to hear it too.
No one knows what’s better for your child than you do. Not your parents, or your best friend, or a book or a panel of experts.
Natasha and I were having a discussion this week about how people can sometimes make you feel like you have to validate every decision you make as a parent. There are some incredibly hard decisions we all must make when it comes to how we birth our children, how we feed them, care for them, etc.
People have their opinions on sleep schedules, on vaccinations, on weaning, on discipline - but remind yourself that your baby is one of a kind and no one else on this entire planet will intensely research, pray about, lose sleep over or debate what is the best option for your family more than you will.
So the next time someone tries to tell you what is best for YOUR baby - remember that no ones opinion or advice should make you feel guilty over the choices you make for your child. You know your child and their needs intimately and wholly. You are their advocate, their expert, and their protector. Feel confident in that role and the decisions you are making!
Love,
M

Busy...

2010-03-01T12:26:00.000-05:00

We had a very busy week last week.

On Wednesday we took Isaac to the circus. I was so excited to watch him take in everything. As we were walking up the RBC center he was so excited just about the building I knew we were going to have a great time.

We got there early enough that we got some snacks and a little present for Isaac. It was nice having some special time with just Isaac. I think Isaac enjoyed having time with just his Mama and Dada too! (Thanks, to my Mom and Dad for watching Eli for us!)

Our favorite part of the night was the elephants! Isaac was mesmerized every time they came out! We had a blast.

On Saturday afternoon, we had a friend of ours little girls 1 year birthday party. The boys took long naps so we got there late but had a good time while we were there.

Saturday night, we celebrated my brother Josh's 30th birthday. He had a party at a 'retro' bowling alley in Raleigh. We were out way too late but had a lot of fun! Isaac had been talking about going bowling all week and had so much fun! We'll need to go bowling more often.

Stephen's parents were in town for Josh's birthday so we spent some time with them Sunday after church and then had some friends over on Sunday night.

It was a very busy weekend but we all had a lot of fun! Sometimes it's fun to be so busy going from place to place. As long as we're all together!

Lucy Loo

2010-03-01T12:06:00.000-05:00

We've added a new member to our family.

Lucy joined our family on February 13 and she's added such a fun element. After talking a lot, praying and just missing having a dog in our family we made the decision to adopt her. She is a redbone coonhound that we adopted through the same rescue, American Black and Tan Coonhound Rescue, we got Jessie. We know that Lucy will never replace Jessie in our hearts but she's making it very easy to love her just as much! She is a cuddle bug and loves to be with us. Reminds us of our sweet girl and we love seeing little bits of her in Lucy! Lucy is so gentle with Eli and loves to play with Isaac. She is a bundle of energy but also loves to just lay around and cuddle with us. She is just perfect for our family!

Haiti

2010-02-23T13:26:00.002-05:00

Please remember Haiti. There is still an enormous amount of suffering. Haitians still need our prayers and support. Please if you feel led to give financially, please click here.

For more stories on the ground, please read my dear friends blog, Gwenn Mangine.

Eli, 6 months and growing

2010-02-03T11:23:00.001-05:00

I knew Eli was getting big based on the fact that the kid can eat! We had his 6 month check up on Friday and got his measurements.

Weight - 18lbs. 13 oz. 75%
Length - 26 3/4 inches 75%

Wow, if he doesn't slow done he's gonna be as big as Isaac soon! He also got some shots which made him feel a little yucky. Luckily, we were snowed in so he was able to just rest all weekend.

He is still waking up during the night. He is either waking up every four hours or on a good night wakes up after sleeping 4 hours and then sleeps 6 and wakes up again. He will sleep then till 8 or 9am so that's nice but wow. We've tried to let him cry it out but he'll cry for hours so that doesn't work. It makes for a very tired mommy most days, but, all well, some day I'm gonna miss this. Right?!? Just praying that eventually he gets it figured out but until then we pray for patience! :)

He is sitting up pretty well but still falls over some. He is itching to crawl and I'm pretty sure it will happen soon! He's eating cereal and baby food now and likes everything except bananas. He loves to smile, be talked to and play with his big brother. His face lights up when he sees Isaac and it really is one of the best things. He knows what he wants and you had better figure it out quick or he will scream(loud). He is very strong willed already and I pray that with that strong will he will change the world! He still has a very sensitive heart and does not like if you are upset, he will cry harder if he can sense that you are mad. He keeps us guessing and on our toes all the time but we wouldn't change a thing. He is such a joy and his smile lights up a room!

New Blog

2010-02-02T20:58:00.001-05:00

Thanks to some online tutorials and some help from my friend Lacey my blog has a new look!

Thank you for your help Lace!

Update on Eli coming soon...

Playing in the snow

2010-02-01T11:28:00.000-05:00

Isaac has had a runny nose and little cough but I decided that since it's the only snow of the year he should still be allowed to play outside. The first day Stephen rigged together a little sled made out of the bottom of a flower pot with a tie down strap attached to it.

On the second day his Papa(my dad) had pity on him and braved the roads to bring over my brothers old sled. He wasn't too sure about sledding unless he was riding with me. It was a ton of fun being pulled down our little hill by Stephen. Eli just stayed inside napping and keeping warm. He had his 6 month check-up on Friday and was feeling a little yucky from his shots. (I'll do a separate post of Eli's stats)

We've had a great time just being together as a family and really taking advantage of this special time! We had plans for the weekend that we couldn't do because of the weather and Isaac's little cold but I wouldn't have changed a thing! Our time together was perfect!

Make a joyful noise

2010-02-01T11:02:00.000-05:00

During our two days of being snowed in Stephen, Isaac and Eli decided to make music. I love watching my boys admire their daddy! Stephen is an amazing father and the way the boys watch him makes me so proud! Isaac always wants to play drums just like daddy and Eli has started to try and make music like his daddy too, at least in his own little way! Some of my favorite moments are watching my boys play together and this weekend I have been able to do that a lot!

Their Character

2010-01-29T09:28:00.001-05:00

I say all the time that I love the compassion that Isaac has. I can already see it at his young age of 2 1/2. He amazes me so much! For instance this morning Eli was fussing(which he likes to do) and Isaac said he thought Eli needed his passy. He went into Eli's room and got it for him and brought it out and gave it to him. Sure enough just what he needed. Sure not a huge thing but just something little that he worries that Eli isn't happy and he wanted to make him feel better. Compassion.
I once heard a mom that I respect very much say that "she cares a lot more about her children's character then she does on the things they do" and I totally agree. Don't get my wrong them being intellectual is important but in the long run I care more about their character and the way that they will love people well. I care more about growing my boys compassion for others, their joy and thankfulness in all things and their giving spirits then I do in whether or not they are going to be the smartest kids in their class.

Strong refuge

2010-01-20T12:33:00.002-05:00

photo courtesy of Leann Pye

Psalm 121: 1-2 "I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."

Posted by Leann Pye "I was told this amazing story last night. A mother breast fed her 14 day old baby, put her in her bed. Then stepped outside to get a towel. Then the earthquake! Her house crumbled. Search and Rescue started clearing the house expecting to find a body of the baby. Instead they found a very malnutrious baby, ALIVE! Not a scratch on her! She was brought to the hospital and put on IV antibiotics and started to cry. She is now 22 days old!"

Continue to check Gwenn's Blog and Leann Pye's Blog for updates. They are both on the ground in Jacmel, Haiti and work with Joy In Hope(JIH).

Please if you want to help the Haitian people please click here.

It's amazing the amount of destruction that has happened in Haiti. I find myself at a loss for words. It's just hard to wrap my mind and heart around! The loss of life is overwhelming and staggering. It's hard not to focus on the bad things, the things that can take your breathe away, the things that can make your heart hard and cause you to lose focus. So, I encourage all of us to focus on the amazing miracles that are coming from this! To find ourselves on our knees praying for the people of Haiti and thanking God for the goodness He is already bringing from this! Praying for His strength, courage and refuge to cover the people in Haiti!

Haiti Update

2010-01-18T12:15:00.001-05:00

All the posts that follow have been made posted by Gwenn Mangine . I have been silent this weekend, processing all that is in my head. Please continue to give and pray! It is making a difference. God has put Nick and Gwenn Mangine and Danny and Leann Pye there for such a time as this!

Startling UN Statistics posted by Gwenn this weekend:
Danny went to a meeting today with the UN. There they disclosed some statistics that were heartbreaking-- as we knew they would be.

Out today from the UN in Jacmel-- statistics ON Jacmel, which is a city of 34,ooo...

1,785 homes completely destroyed
4410 homes partially destroyed
87 commercial businesses destroyed
54 schools destroyed
24 hotels destroyed
26 churches destroyed
5730 families displaced
Death count approaching 3,000 (nearly 10%)

Pray. And give. (Btw-- got some exciting stories to share about ways your $$$ is already saving lives-- stay tuned.)

Posted by Gwenn on Monday:
So here's the funny thing. We've become airport administrators. By we I mean Danny and Nick. They are directing planes where they need to go, handling the flight manifests, checking passports, it's insane. INSANE. Why do you ask? Good question. Because there are flights coming in and there is NO ONE ELSE to do this. They mayor has turned over the airport to us. Which. is. hilarious.

Today we're making our operations mobile. We're hauling the big generator over from Rue Petion so we can set up our command center back with the states in the same place we're working. That's our biggest obstacle. This way we can have computers and internet with us. We're all assigned jobs. Here's the breakdown of who's on what jobs today:

Danny-- Point person on the ground at the airport--will handle air traffic, work with pilots, UN (if necessary), work with the Mayor to communicate what's coming in and going out.
Nick-- 2nd Point person (see above for details) . Nick is also on the list as a driver.
Leann-- Communications point person/inventory/sorting Leann will be monitoring communications with the home office about plane information-- distribution information, etc. She will also be in charge of making sure what we're receiving is inventoried so that the mayor knows what's coming in and going out.
Gwenn-- Media contact. Many of the people that came in on the planes today were media. They are showing up to Jacmel to see what's going on. We're showing them. We think this is useful because it gets the story out that Jacmel has had NO AID come in from any official or governmental organizations. We need people to realize that we need MAJOR help from some large organizations who actually have the skills to accomplish this thing we're trying to do. Even minor help would be great. So today that's my job and I am also a driver for when supplies need to get to places.
Georgette- She's got probably the crappiest job out of all of us today, but she's the only one I think that could do it without spending the day screaming. Georgette gets the job of organizing people trying to flee via these charters. We've worked out with the airline that's doing all this flying in and out that as long as people have valid US passports, they can get on the plane. The problem is the controlling the "line" of people waiting. They get really mean at times. Which honestly just makes you want to say-- forget it, nobody goes. But whatever. Pray for Georgette today. Pray for all of us today.

Once the flights are done for the day we have to get all our sorted/inventoried items into the hands of the people that need them. And pack up our "mobile" command center-- which I speak of VERY loosely because it includes and 800 lb generator. Not EXACTLY mobile... but we'll get er done.

Also posted by Gwenn on Monday:
I always say that Joy in Hope exists to build Haitian families.

Here's a really cool thing that has happened-- part of the way God has created me is as a story-teller. I love to tell stories. And it's kind of how I unwind... which is why I blog so much. So on Saturday when our friend Clark who owned the Peace of Mind hotel in Jacmel came to me asking me if I would be able to help him share his story, take pictures, etc. I said sure. After we were done with work that day, I dropped by and he showed me around. I asked questions and took notes. I told him that I had been talking to some people from CNN and they'd been asking me for personal stories. So-- yesterday while we were waiting on the airplanes to come in I typed up my notes and sent them and some photos to my contact at CNN. She passed them along to a co-worker of hers who said he'd take the story. This had nothing to do with us or our ministry, but hey-- I figured it's what I can do to help a friend in a really bad spot.

Later that afternoon I logged onto cnn (which I do pretty often these days) and the BIG FRONT PAGE STORY on their website is the story I sent off and they even gave me the byline. The story and MY pictures. That was personally a little ego booster but mostly I wanted to talk to Clark to let him know that his story had gotten out as he'd hoped.

Later in the evening, Danny sees the story and starts talking about it and so Nick goes back and checks it again and there's a followup story--- if you have 2-3 minutes watch this video to see what happened after the fact...

http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/01/17/haiti.jacmel.hotel/index.html

Dude, building families! I LOVE it.

Please Pray

2010-01-15T10:10:00.006-05:00

UPDATE:

New post from Gwenn on facebook: "Nick just took 4 truck loads of supplies over to the hospital. We cleaned out team housing-- sheets, pillows, towels. We purchased 2 truckloads of supplies at the market-- bleach, soap, food, etc. We bought out a local pharmacy's drug supply too... Keep giving. We're getting it out! www.joyinhope.org/donate.asp"

Original Post:

Gwenn just posted this on facebook:

"decided it's time to get the kiddos out. We're not in any immediate danger but as we look out, we know we could minister more effectively knowing they were safe and well cared for. Now onto the logistics. We'd like to avoid Port if necessary. :) Please contact Pam McKerring at pmckerring@crosspointe.org if you ...have contacts-- she's heading up the transport plans for us. Thanks!"

She is talking about their american children, they have three! Please pray they are able to find a way to get them out!

Friday update

2010-01-15T09:45:00.002-05:00

Update from Danny Pye on the ground in Haiti - "The community feeding begins today with 500 people lunch served out of our Jacmel Church. We will still feed the few hundred at our house as well. We hope to provide a meal and water a day to anyone that comes. We plan on 500 today and then each day we will increase the amount we make."

The money that you are giving to Joy in Hope is making it possible to feed these people! Please pass the word along so that they can continue to help as many people as possible!

Also Nick & Gwenn said "that the kids are ready to burst from being trapped in the compound for so long" They are going to try and do something 'fun' today to just get a "break" from everything.

Please continue to pray for the kids little hearts. Also they are in need of medical supplies but the road from Port Au Prince makes it VERY difficult to get supplies to Jacmel! Please pray that they will receive supplies soon! Also our church, Crosspointe, is trying to find a plane and pilot or some way to get a few people to Jacmel to help. Please pray that they are able to find a way soon!

Also please continue to check Gwenn's blog http://www.mangine.org for updates.

Haiti Update

2010-01-14T14:44:00.001-05:00

Gwenn has been trying to update their blog and pictures on facebook regularly.

http://www.mangine.org/

This page is going to be the best way for you to get up to date information from people on the ground!

Please continue to read her blog so that you can pray specifically! It is difficult to think about and see the imagines but our prayers are what are sustaining these people right now! Please offer words of encouragement on her blog as well!

Thank you for those that are new to my blog and just learning about the Joy in Hope organization! They are making revolutionary change in Haiti, especially during such a time as this! Without your prayers and support the families in Haiti could not do what they are doing!

Oh My God Shine Your Light On Us

2010-01-13T22:11:00.001-05:00

(Gwenn Magine posted this in September 2008 after the hurricanes that hit Haiti, I've changed the pictures to ones from the recent earthquake)

Please God be near to your people!

Oh, my God

Shine your light on us

that we might live

Oh, My God

Shine your light on us

that we might live

I've been holding on

All that is inside me
Screams to come back home

If you feel lost

Sing Along

If you feel tired

If you feel tired

Sing Along

If you feel lost and tired

This is your song

I've been broken down

I've been broken down

I ain't giving up

Love will come back around

Shine your light

Shine it down

Let Your rescue come for us

We long to love

Photos: Gwenn Mangine, Leann Pye and the AP; Lyrics: Robbie Seay Band; Originally Created by: Gwenn Mangine

Blog from the Pye's in Haiti

2010-01-13T15:15:00.000-05:00

Copied from the Pye's Blog

Things to pray about:

-Strength. Nick, Gwenn, Georgette, Danny, and I are going full stream with little sleep or time to eat. We are trying to help our neighbors, be there for our kids, check on missing people, buy supplies, feed our neighbors, and so much.

-My kids. Many of our children have received word about family members in PAP that have died. They are already emotionally shaky and now it's more personal for them.

-Pray for provisions. We currently have water, food, and fuel. However we have heard nothing good about the road from PAP to Jacmel. Not sure when it will be fixed. No road means little comes thru to Jacmel.

-Pray for our houses. As you know our houses are still here after the hurricane. However, every time an aftershock comes our houses continue to shake. Many small cracks have grown. We are a little nervous and keeping an eye on Danny and I's bedroom where the majority of the cracks are.

-Pray for our families. Our literal and ministry ones in the States that feel helpless and are worrying about us. Nixon, Sandra, and Michael are in the States right now.

-Jacmel. We took a quick drive thru Jacmel. Many of the beautiful, old buildings are crumbled or missing huge pieces of wall. The hospital is still trying to function. So many people without homes.

-Peace. Scared, desperate people do stupid stuff. Haiti is known for taking the physical approach to fix problems. We are not afraid of our safety...I mean we are sleeping outside of our compound! But as days go by, food might start becoming hard to find. Please pray for peace.

-Rumors. Please pray that rumors stop. Several of my kids wanted to know if the rumor that another huge earthquake is coming again tonight at 5. Right now they are scared. We plan on sleeping outside in the field again tonight since no one is ready to sleep in the house yet.

-Phones. Many phones are not working. Lack of communication is making a bad situation worse. Please pray that cell phones will start working so our friends, neighbors, and kids can contact their families.

-Internet. That ours will continue to work. We are the only ones that I know that have Internet.

-Unity. As we work together towards one goal.

-Aftershocks. That they will stop. I still feel them and my heart stops every time.

Just a few things off the top of my head. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

Many have asked how can they send funds to help. Here is the info from Rick:

Earthquake Relief - Donate at http://www.joyinhope.org/donate.asp

and select "Immediate Needs" (or mail checks to JIH - Earthquake, 2731 NC Hwy 55 #251, Cary, NC 27519) to help provide much needed food and supplies to those affected by today's earthquake.

Haiti

2010-01-13T11:44:00.001-05:00

Family and Friends,

Last night we were at Life Group(small group bible study) and the news was on. I saw that a 7.0 earthquake had hit Haiti near Port Au Prince(PAP). My heart fell and I wished I knew more, I immediately thought of the Joy In Hope families and staff in Jacmel, Haiti just hours from PAP. Once we got home I got on the computer looking for word from the Mangine Family and Pye Family. Both families are ok but I'm sure they are scared and feeling very alone and helpless! We know that God has not and will not leave them but I imagine in the face of such devastation they feel alone! Please follow there blogs with word on how you can be praying specifically for them! I know one of the huge things that are going to get them through the next few weeks and months is going to be our prayers! Please pray without ceasing for the people of Haiti. In a country where 80% of the country is below the poverty line a disaster like this is a catastrophe! Please if you feel lead to give you can go here and put "immediate needs" for your reason for giving. The money will go to the Pye's and Mangine's to get much needed food and supplies out to the people of Haiti! Please pray for the Pye's and Mangine's children! They will be seeing a lot in the next few days that will be hard for their little hearts and minds to comprehend, they have already seen so much in their short lives! Please pray that God will shield their eyes and hearts from the devastation. Please also pray for Gwenn and Nick Mangine and Danny and Leann Pye. They will also be faced with a lot and please pray for courage and strength for them! Pray specifically for one of the Pye's boys who has suffered a broken ankle from the earthquake. Also pray that they all tangibly feel God's loving arms around them at the specific times that they need it most!

I will update if I know any new information but the best way to find out more is to read their blogs which I've posted links to!

Please, more then anything, pray!

Isaac, the laughing one

2010-01-08T12:07:00.002-05:00

Isaac Thomas, our first born, the little bundle that made me a mommy for the first time.

Our sweet first born that had his daddy smitten at their first meeting.

He is such a joy and wakes up with a smile every morning and everyday is a holiday! He laughs with such gusto that you can't help but join in. He believes that his daddy hung the moon and creates all music! Anytime he hears a song he truly believes that it's Stephen playing the drums and points it out everytime! His daddy is his hero and he tries to be just like him, he has a musicians heart and we can already see it!

He loves to create and has my same love of art! He loves taking pictures, painting and coloring! He likes to be creative and come up with new ways to create his art!

He has eye lashes that go on for miles and a sweet little gap in his front teeth. He has his daddy's nose and my blue eyes! He truly is the best of both of us and the best of himself!

He keeps us guessing about what he's going to say or do! Mostly he's perfect just the way he is! God is doing a mighty work in my sweet boy! The compassion he shows to others, his heart, his smile, his humor and the way he already says sorry when he has done something wrong! I see Jesus in my sweet boy and I pray that he will always love and follow the Lord!

Christmas Day

2010-01-06T11:55:00.000-05:00

I know it was a total photo barf above but it was hard to pick my favorites! This Christmas was so much fun! Isaac is at the age where Christmas is magical and exciting! He loved every minute, making cookies, looking at Christmas lights, opening present and spending time with family! Eli was still feeling under the weather on Christmas but he was awesome and loved being help and being with family as well! Christmas morning we woke up and opened presents at home. Then around 12:30 after unsuccessfully trying to get Isaac to nap we went to Josh and Katie's house. Stephen and Katie's parents came into town from Boone and my parents and my aunt and uncle were there as well. We had a great day opening presents and then had a big meal afterwards. We all had a really great time!

Christmas preparations

2010-01-04T14:06:00.001-05:00

Isaac and Eli both painted ornaments for Christmas presents! Isaac loved painting and also painted a picture that's currently hanging on our fridge! I love seeing how much Isaac loves Eli and wants him to be a part of everything we do!

Isaac also helped decorate Christmas cookies this year! He loved putting the sprinkles on and liked to take his time. I had to keep reminding him he needed to hurry before the icing dried! While we were decorating Eli just looked cute wearing his santa hat!

Joy in Hope

2009-12-16T20:58:00.000-05:00

Matthew 25:40 "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these brothers of mine you did for me."

My mind is swimming, trying to sort through the thoughts and feelings that have come from our meeting last night. Stephen and I attended the first ever, Joy in Hope mobilization meeting. Joy in Hope is a non-profit organization that Stephen and I have become very passionate about!

We first heard of the Haitian Children's Home(HCH) in just the first few months of attending Crosspointe Church. I was instantly captured! I fell in love with a place that I have never visited and a group of people that I have never met! I truly see the model of God's love demonstrated in HCH and Joy in Hope.

Imagine with me orphaned, abandoned children in a country were poverty and suffering is as common as having food on your table to eat. Children that have been sold into slavery, sold for money to be voodoo sacrafices that have been rescued into a family, a family with a mom and dad. A family that loves them beyond the baggage that they have brought with them into this family. A mom and dad that have "adopted" them into there forever home! To show them that they are worthy of love for no other reason then that they were made by God and they are special! The true image of Christ's love for us!

Joy in Hope was started in 2008 as the parent organization of HCH. It was provided to serve the needs in Haiti more effectively. It has recently moved stateside to NC to free up more time for the HCH families to focus on being parents to their children and also focus on the needs in Haiti. Stephen and I have the honor of volunteering with this awesome organization! I have felt, for a while, a calling to help in some way and am so excited to be able to do that now! What an amazing opportunity to be a part of something that is changing lives and bringing people to Christ. Joy in Hope is looking for more volunteers, corporate and personal sponsors. Please if you feel the Lord stirring in your heart, please check out their website and contact Joy in Hope.

Little Drummer Boy

2009-12-11T13:08:00.002-05:00

Come they told me, pa rum pum pum pum

A new born King to see, pa rum pum pum pum

Our finest gifts we bring, pa rum pum pum pum

To lay before the King, pa rum pum pum pum,

rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

So to honor Him, pa rum pum pum pum,

When we come.

Little Baby, pa rum pum pum pum

I am a poor boy too, pa rum pum pum pum

I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum

That's fit to give the King, pa rum pum pum pum,

rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum,

On my drum?

Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum

The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum

I played my drum for Him, pa rum pum pum pum

I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum,

rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum,

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum

Me and my drum.

James Brothers in Concert

2009-12-11T12:57:00.003-05:00

The Jonas Brothers don't have anything on the James Brothers!

My boys are all about Rock 'n Roll!

HP TouchSmart 600

2009-12-10T09:08:00.003-05:00

I just entered to win an HP TouchSmart 600. You can enter to win also just head on over to MckGiveways for your chance to win! What an awesome giveaway!

Don't worry folks I have a lot more I plan to blog about soon! I know you're on the edge of your seats waiting to hear about the James'!

Bad germ, bad germs go away! Good germs, good germs here to stay!

2009-11-12T09:35:00.005-05:00

Sorry it's been a little while since I last updated. We've been hanging out around home a lot trying to get the boys over sicknesses. Last Friday, Eli was diagnosed with Respiratory Syncytial Virus, RSV. We have been giving him treatments at home with a nebulizer that they sent home with us from the doctors office. So we are now the proud owners of a fire truck shaped nebulizer! He was having to get treatments every 4 hours through the weekend and into the beginning of the week. He's not needing them as often now, so we're praying that he'll be all better by the weekend! Poor little man! He's had just a few scary episodes where thankfully Stephen was home because I freaked out! I'm such a worrier sometimes! Isaac also has a yucky cold! We're praying that they are both better soon! We're ready to get back out into the world and enjoy the fall with the boys!

Eli is growing like crazy and changing so much! He's smiling, laughing and talking/cooing now! He loves to watch his big brother play and smiles every time Isaac is within his view! It really is the sweetest thing! He has such a tender little heart! Every time I raise my voice at Isaac for not listening he starts to cry! This is definitely not like Isaac!

Isaac is VERY SPIRITED(shall we say)! He's started telling us "no" and "now" when he wants something! The only punishment that seems to work is sending him to his room, which happens pretty often! He loves Eli and is such a proud big brother. I asked him recently what he wanted for Christmas and he told me "Eli". So cute! Stephen and I say all the time that he's as sweet as he wants to be! He is very much a ham and loves to make people laugh and perform for them!

This fall has been difficult with the boys being sick, especially Eli! The lack of sleep has been taking a toll on us and we're praying they are both better soon!

I'll try and get back into the habit of blogging again soon!

A Laughing Bear and a Chubby Little Lion

2009-11-02T11:06:00.008-05:00

Picture Post: My sweet babies! We had an amazing Halloween with our friends! Isaac loved being a ham with his little friends! Eli just loved being my sweet little man!

Pumpkin Heads

2009-10-30T08:13:00.007-04:00

Answer - Isaac, Eli, Eli, Isaac

Guessing game - which of these pictures is Eli and which of these pictures are Isaac. It's amazing to me how much they look alike but also how different they are! My Sweet little pumpkin heads!

Teaser

2009-10-28T11:08:00.004-04:00

We've got big plans for the next few days and through the weekend!!! Be on the lookout for some great pictures of my sweet family enjoying some fall fun!

A little hint...a bear and a lion are involved! WOW! Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!

I am often left breathless by God's goodness

2009-10-20T12:00:00.010-04:00

I am often,
left breathless by God's goodness.

Eli is developing as a baby his age should! He's smiling, holding his head up during tummy time, cooing and talking and just the other day he giggled! All things that in God's goodness has aloud to happen to my Eli! To the sweet child that grew within me and then came into this world in a bit of a traumatic birth. Whose heart rate dropped to 30 during labor and came out not breathing, almost having to be intibated, but who's faint cry was finally heard, when God breathed life into his lungs! My Eli, who now cries with such gusto that you can't deny that he is full of life! God's goodness! My Eli, that brings such light into the world with his tender heart that is already showing to the world around him! My Eli, who I long to see what a little man he is going to become! My Eli, that I dream about his future and pray that he has strength and compassion! My Eli, given to me from God's goodness!

Eli's Birth Story

2009-10-19T09:00:00.005-04:00

So I decided it was time to write Eli's Birth Story down before I forget any of it. I'm already having trouble remember some things. Eli was due on August 6 but he had other plans for us! We had actually been praying that he would come early or late because Stephen had some really busy weeks at the bakery with cakes and we weren't sure how it would work. We had been praying that he would come when he did because it was a "slow" week at the bakery. God had everything under control, as always!

At about 3am on Monday, July 27 I was awaken to what I thought were Braxton Hicks. They were stronger then they had been but really inconsistent, 7 mins in between and then 3 minutes. I tried to sleep but had trouble because they were so strong. When Stephen got up for work at about 5:30am, they were still the same intensity and still inconsistent but I had a feeling that our baby might be joining the world. We decided Stephen would go into the bakery since it is only 5 minutes away and if I needed him he would come right home. He really thought that it was false labor and that it was too early for the baby to be coming anyways. At about 7:30ish they were still coming with the same intensity and still inconsistent! I kept calling Stephen because they weren't stopping, no matter what I did and I wasn't sure what to do. I actually was supposed to have an OBGYN appointment that day at 2:30. So we decided that I should call the doctors office when it opened to see if they could get me in earlier. At about 9am I spoke to the nurse at Dr. R's office and she said to take a shower and walk around, it should make things more consistent if it was actual labor. She said they couldn't get me in any earlier but to call back if they got more consistent. By about 9:30ish they were coming more regular, so I called my mom and told her she better get my dad and come to our house. My dad was going be staying with Isaac while we were all at the hospital. My mom, and sister-in-law, Katie were going to be in the delivery room with Stephen and I, so Katie came to our house also to wait and see what was happening. At about 10ish I called the doctors office again and told them that my contractions were more regular and they said I should come on into the hospital. By this time I could no longer speak during my contractions so my mom said that we should probably time them to see how close the contractions were coming because they seemed to be coming pretty often. She was right, they were only 2 minutes apart. I called Stephen and told him he needed to come now. By 10:30 we were off to the hospital. I remember telling Stephen as we were driving into the parking lot of the hospital that he better hurry because the baby was coming now, in fact I thought he was already between my legs! When we got to our room it felt like it was taking forever for a nurse to come in. I told Stephen I needed to use the bathroom and then I started to get sick. My mom went to find a nurse and told them, "I'm not a doctor but I'm pretty sure my daughter is in transition, someone better come check her." A nurse came right in and checked me and I was already 8-9 cm. By this time I was pretty unaware of things that were happening, the nurse was asking me questions to get checked in so Stephen was answering them for her. Stephen said that he kept watching and the baby's heart rate kept dropping. I kept telling the nurse I needed to push and she said that I had to wait, that Dr. R was on his way! At this point obviously I was 10 cm. and was ready to have this baby. The nurse told me I needed to roll to my left side to raise the babies heart rate, that didn't help so I had to roll to my right. When she said that didn't work I had to get up on all fours on the bed. By the time I got on all fours, which took so much work, I had had it with waiting and started pushing to relieve some pressure. About this time Dr. R walked in and I remember hearing him talking to the nurses about the babies heart rate being low. He told me that I needed to roll over and push! So I turned over, again which took a lot of work in the middle of contractions! As soon as I got turned over he told me I needed to push. I was pretty out of it at this point and just so focused on having the baby I don't know much of what happened at this point. I just remember not hearing Eli cry when he was born. I kept looking at Stephen's face and Katie's and asking them why he wasn't crying if he was OK. They just kept saying yes, but I saw worry in their eyes. It felt like an eternity until I heard his first little cry! It was so different then when Isaac was born, I didn't get to see him as soon as he was born, they whisked him right over to his bassinet to work on him.

After I finally got to hold him, Stephen told me that Eli's heart rate had dropped into the 30's so Dr. R had to use a suction to get him out faster then was happening with just the pushing. So Eli entered the world at 11:59, only 51 minutes after we checked into the hospital. His birth was fast and scary! I'm so thankful that he was born a healthy beautiful baby boy!

Song for my Boys

2009-10-18T09:00:00.002-04:00

Music has always been a big part of my life. I often hear God speak to me through music! His still small voice speaking to my heart in just the ways that I need!

I love Sara Groves. Her songs speak to me often! Recently I was listening to one of her CD's and there was a song on it that she wrote for her sons! This is also a song that I want to give to my boys! I pray that I can teach my boys these things!

"Song for my Sons"

This is a song for my sons for when they understand it
You know how life is full you know we couldn't plan it
your dad and I prayed for strength and understanding
for things we couldn't see or comprehend

This is a song for you, to carry in your pocket
take all our love with you in all the paths you walk in
I can't say your life will always go like it should
but I can say that God is always good

and when the cold wind blows like I know it will
and when you feel alone like I know you will
and when the cold wind blows like we know it will

Don't let your love grow
Don't let your love grow
Don't let your love grow cold

This is a song from my heart a small refrain to hold you
for times when we're apart and I cannot console you
Be honest with yourself and don't forget to pray
and read your bible everyday

and when the cold wind blows like I know it will
and when you feel alone like I know you will
and when the cold wind blows like I know it will

Don't let your love grow
Don't let your love grow
Don't let your love grow cold

My blessing, My mom

2009-10-17T09:00:00.002-04:00

My mom, is an amazing women! One of the strongest women I have ever met in fact! She has been such a strength and compass in my life. I am proud to call her not only my mom but my friend! She has taught me so much about life, compassion, goodness, faith and most of all love. She's the type of women that you long to spend time with! Her goodness just exudes her body and she makes the room shine just by being in it! If you ever have the fortune to meet her or even just be near her your life will be better for it. She has such a love and faith for Jesus that she continues to teach me about. In my life I have never questioned my parent's love, not even once. I know that this is such a blessing and one I am eternally grateful for, one that I pray I will give to my boys! I pray that I can be half as good of a mom, women and wife that my mother is!

When I moved away soon after high school, which ended up being just a couple months, my mom gave me a CD by Erin O'Donnell. She told me to listen to the song "Hold Onto Jesus" because it was her song to me! From her heart to mine. I will never forget this song or how it still makes me feel when I listen to it!

"Hold Onto Jesus"

You're a little piece of heaven
You're a golden ray of light
and I wish I could protect you
from the worries of this life

but if there's one thing i could tell you
it's no matter what you do
hold to Jesus,
He's holding onto you

The world will try to tell you
that might is more than right
and beauty's on the outside
and being goods a losing fight
but remember what I've told you
'cause the world will make you choose
hold to Jesus, He's holding on to you

Hold on to Jesus, and cling to his love
rest deep in his mercy, whenever things get rough
and don't lose sight of his goodness
and don't ever doubt this truth,
that when you hold on to
Jesus He's holdin onto you.

Hear me dear Jesus, rock this little one to sleep
keep her close when she's scared, and
give her grace when she is weak.
I know she'll stumble, but i know she'll make it through
if you hold on to her just like you said you'd do
hold her Jesus so she'll hold on tight to you

Mom, I know I don't tell you often enough! I love you and I am so thankful that I call you mom and friend! I am who I am because of you! Please don't ever doubt that you were/are a wonderful mother! I have been so blessed by being your daughter, I could not ask for more!