519. Noel losing his first tooth.
520. impromptu trips to the ice cream shop with my brother and his family.
521. getting to take care of my grandpa's dog, Babe.
522. six years of serving with Russ Smith as our youth minister.
523. getting to know and love his wife and daughters.
524. getting to play guitar with the worship band, even if everything was kind of a train wreck!
525. hot weather (we will miss it in February)
526. all of Noel's warts going away.
527. Elise deciding that she likes school now.
528. patience. I need more of it. But I am thankful God is patient with me.
529. my transition to the high school Bridges program (BTC) is going well.
530. a friend to vent to who understands me.
531. new shoes.
532. new socks.
533. seeing some of the Crossing students learn how to make jam.
534. a great run at the park.
535. a new children's minister at our church.
536. tomatoes. and more tomatoes. and more tomatoes.
What are you thankful for?
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Friday, August 23, 2013
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Still Thankful
Yep, still thankful.
Thankful for. . .
498. the fact that we now have internet service that actually works now.
499. Noel starting first grade. So far, he has been loving it.
500. a new place to workout in Russiaville.
501. the amazing harvest we have had from the garden this summer.
502. band aids.
503. school supplies.
504. giggles.
505. getting to watch my grandpa's dog, Babe, for now. The kids have fallen in love with her.
506. our trip to Michigan.
507. 9 years of marriage.
508. time to see old friends this summer.
509. change.
(Sigh)
I'm not going to lie, this summer was hard. It was filled with so many fun things that I am so very thankful for (vacations, time with friends and family, tons of sunshine and playing together, ice cream, campfires, etc.). But it was also filled with change. After three years, I am moving from working at the middle school Bridges program to the high school program. Two of the head teachers at The Crossing left. Our youth minister and children's minister at our church left. My grandfather has been put in a nursing home, and it very upset about it (to put it lightly). Noel is now in public school. all day.
Lots of change.
And I am not always good with change.
But I have also seen that most of these changes have brought about lots and lots of good things. I have seen God move in ways I would not have seen had these changes not happened.
And I am confident that God is working in me, around me, and through me. So I continue to be thankful.
Thankful for. . .
498. the fact that we now have internet service that actually works now.
499. Noel starting first grade. So far, he has been loving it.
500. a new place to workout in Russiaville.
501. the amazing harvest we have had from the garden this summer.
502. band aids.
503. school supplies.
504. giggles.
505. getting to watch my grandpa's dog, Babe, for now. The kids have fallen in love with her.
506. our trip to Michigan.
507. 9 years of marriage.
508. time to see old friends this summer.
509. change.
(Sigh)
I'm not going to lie, this summer was hard. It was filled with so many fun things that I am so very thankful for (vacations, time with friends and family, tons of sunshine and playing together, ice cream, campfires, etc.). But it was also filled with change. After three years, I am moving from working at the middle school Bridges program to the high school program. Two of the head teachers at The Crossing left. Our youth minister and children's minister at our church left. My grandfather has been put in a nursing home, and it very upset about it (to put it lightly). Noel is now in public school. all day.
Lots of change.
And I am not always good with change.
But I have also seen that most of these changes have brought about lots and lots of good things. I have seen God move in ways I would not have seen had these changes not happened.
And I am confident that God is working in me, around me, and through me. So I continue to be thankful.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Where to Begin?
It has been a month since I got on this blog.
Oops.
For those 3 of you who still read this, I apologize. My goal of hitting 1000 reasons to be thankful has fallen behind terribly. It's been a month of ups and downs. Amazing vacation moments and tragic, heartbreaking moments. But through it all God is constant. He never leaves. He never forgets. He never stops loving us.
In short, I am still thankful.
Thankful for. . .
472. safe car rides.
473. traveling DVD players.
474. memorable pit stops.
475. meeting Robbie.
476. seeing a family that had once been torn apart put back together, only by God's grace and a lot of forgiveness.
477. swimming pools.
478. life jackets.
479. sunsets.
480. bug spray.
481. go-carts.
482. dolphins.
483. air-conditioning.
484. throwed rolls!
485. ice cream coolers at gas stations.
486. campground church services.
487. the ocean.
488. sandcastles.
489. our garden.
490. pickles. and more pickles. and then some more (you guessed it) pickles!
491. Noel's first time doing 4-H.
492. summer storms.
493. new friends.
494. old friends.
495. the knowledge that we are never alone, even when it seems like it.
496. change.
497. ten years with my sweetheart.
What are you thankful for?
Oops.
For those 3 of you who still read this, I apologize. My goal of hitting 1000 reasons to be thankful has fallen behind terribly. It's been a month of ups and downs. Amazing vacation moments and tragic, heartbreaking moments. But through it all God is constant. He never leaves. He never forgets. He never stops loving us.
In short, I am still thankful.
Thankful for. . .
472. safe car rides.
473. traveling DVD players.
474. memorable pit stops.
475. meeting Robbie.
476. seeing a family that had once been torn apart put back together, only by God's grace and a lot of forgiveness.
477. swimming pools.
478. life jackets.
479. sunsets.
480. bug spray.
481. go-carts.
482. dolphins.
483. air-conditioning.
484. throwed rolls!
485. ice cream coolers at gas stations.
486. campground church services.
487. the ocean.
488. sandcastles.
489. our garden.
490. pickles. and more pickles. and then some more (you guessed it) pickles!
491. Noel's first time doing 4-H.
492. summer storms.
493. new friends.
494. old friends.
495. the knowledge that we are never alone, even when it seems like it.
496. change.
497. ten years with my sweetheart.
What are you thankful for?
Monday, June 10, 2013
Summer Fun
Summer has started off with a bang, as you can tell from my absence on the blog. I'll try and keep this as concise as possible, but I have SO MUCH to be thankful for!
433. summer reading program
434. the kids finding joy in little things, like rolling down hills
435. hearing Noel read to me
436. slushies
437. our new playset
438. our garden
439. the rain
440. swim lessons for Noel
441. swim lessons for Elise
442. plans are coming together for Noel's 1st grade class
443. camping trips
444. bike rides
445. our friend Bob's tent
446. catching bugs to inspect
447. our new hobby: geocaching
448. bubbles
449. coloring time
450. a good week of camp for Bridges students
451.sleeping in
452. stars
453. sunsets
454. s'mores
455. Elise swimming in the Mississenewa with all her clothes on!
456. making memories
457. the discomfort of change that forces me to rely on God
458. sidewalk chalk
459. air conditioning
460. bug spray
461. Coyote Kids running program
462. getting to run a 5K with my nephew and my friend Cecile.
463. opportunities to show God's love in different ways.
464. afternoon date with David to downtown Indy.
465. picnics
466. parks
467. strawberry shortcake
468. our friends who we got to camp with this past weekend
469. plans to see family from far away soon
470. our niece is back from Austrailia
471. healthy children
What are you thankful for?
433. summer reading program
434. the kids finding joy in little things, like rolling down hills
435. hearing Noel read to me
436. slushies
437. our new playset
438. our garden
439. the rain
440. swim lessons for Noel
441. swim lessons for Elise
442. plans are coming together for Noel's 1st grade class
443. camping trips
444. bike rides
445. our friend Bob's tent
446. catching bugs to inspect
447. our new hobby: geocaching
448. bubbles
449. coloring time
450. a good week of camp for Bridges students
451.sleeping in
452. stars
453. sunsets
454. s'mores
455. Elise swimming in the Mississenewa with all her clothes on!
456. making memories
457. the discomfort of change that forces me to rely on God
458. sidewalk chalk
459. air conditioning
460. bug spray
461. Coyote Kids running program
462. getting to run a 5K with my nephew and my friend Cecile.
463. opportunities to show God's love in different ways.
464. afternoon date with David to downtown Indy.
465. picnics
466. parks
467. strawberry shortcake
468. our friends who we got to camp with this past weekend
469. plans to see family from far away soon
470. our niece is back from Austrailia
471. healthy children
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
This weekend we headed over to Findlay, Ohio to see some of the Wittenbach clan and watch our niece, Becca, graduate.
418. I am thankful for nice weather so we could enjoy the outdoors.
419. I am thankful that our niece, Abby, is home from a semester in California. She was definitely missed.
420. I am thankful for Tye, who is basically Noel's hero. He thinks he is the greatest, and Tye is so wonderful with him.
421. I am thankful that I have these guys in my life.
423. I am thankful for sibling love. . .
424. and crazy cousin love!
425. I am thankful that Becca has such amazing support from her parents.
426. I am thankful that whatever bug Elise had on Friday was over quickly so we could enjoy the weekend.
427. I am thankful for safe travels to and from Findlay, especially in the rain and storm.
428. I am thankful that most of the corn and beans are starting to pop up.
429. I am thankful for the rain.
430. I am thankful for blooming flowers.
431. I am thankful for lazy Tuesday mornings to drink coffee, read, and blog.
432. I am thankful for electronic devices that help on long road trips.
What are you thankful for?
Thursday, May 23, 2013
It's a Wrap!
The end of the school year is here. Everywhere you look there are awards ceremonies, graduations, and open houses. This year is Noel's last after 4 years going to school at Chapel Hill.
409. This is a picture of him right after his last day of school. I'm so thankful that he enjoyed school so much. He was actually sad about it ending.
410. Just look at the graduates! I feel like I'm going to blink and these kids will be heading off to college! I'm so thankful for moments to stop and savor who they are.
411. Of course, I'm thankful for my little graduate :)
412. If you know Noel, or have seen him in programs, you know that while he is very animated in real life, he does NOT like being on stage. However, Kim Shelton taught them a song that he actually got into! Thanks, Kim!
413. I am thankful for friendships that Noel has made that hopefully last beyond this year.
414. Another end of the year program was with my Bridges students. I am thankful for these teens who I get to spend time with every week. They challenge me, entertain me, make me laugh and cry. Most days I learn more from them than they do from me. I'm sure of it.
415. I am thankful for the Bridges Staff I get to work with Chelsea (here) and Chad (above) are two of them. I feel so blessed to be a part of this outreach with them.
416. I am thankful for getting to spend some time with 2 Crossing students today planting peppers. What a great opportunity to teach them life skills, teamwork, and leadership.
417. On a side note, I am thankful that a kind man found my wallet (which had fallen out of my pocket at Menards) and went to great lengths to find it and return it to me. See? There ARE nice people in Kokomo.
What are you thankful for?
409. This is a picture of him right after his last day of school. I'm so thankful that he enjoyed school so much. He was actually sad about it ending.
410. Just look at the graduates! I feel like I'm going to blink and these kids will be heading off to college! I'm so thankful for moments to stop and savor who they are.
412. If you know Noel, or have seen him in programs, you know that while he is very animated in real life, he does NOT like being on stage. However, Kim Shelton taught them a song that he actually got into! Thanks, Kim!
413. I am thankful for friendships that Noel has made that hopefully last beyond this year.
414. Another end of the year program was with my Bridges students. I am thankful for these teens who I get to spend time with every week. They challenge me, entertain me, make me laugh and cry. Most days I learn more from them than they do from me. I'm sure of it.
415. I am thankful for the Bridges Staff I get to work with Chelsea (here) and Chad (above) are two of them. I feel so blessed to be a part of this outreach with them.
416. I am thankful for getting to spend some time with 2 Crossing students today planting peppers. What a great opportunity to teach them life skills, teamwork, and leadership.
417. On a side note, I am thankful that a kind man found my wallet (which had fallen out of my pocket at Menards) and went to great lengths to find it and return it to me. See? There ARE nice people in Kokomo.
What are you thankful for?
Monday, May 20, 2013
I am thankful for. . .
382. watching the kids fly a kite with David in the back yard.
383. seeing Elise learn to not be afraid of the water.
384. homemade chicken noodle soup.
385. our garden.
386. my very own master gardener, David.
387. weekends with very little obligations.
388. popsicles. Don't they just make everything better?
389. finally getting to record Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part I. I've been waiting forever for it to be on regular tv. Now the trick is finding the time to finish it!
390. having the month off from teaching Sunday School.
391. plans to see our amazing niece, Becca, graduate next Sunday. Valedictorian, baby!!
392. getting to go running with my friend Cara. Too bad I slowed her down!
393. watching Noel learn about friendships, even when it is tough.
394. free danishes and cheese samples for Elise at Sam's Club and Meijer. Makes her actually excited about going grocery shopping!
395. Hannah
396. Cheyanne
397. Michelle
398. Kiley
399. and Evan, who are all graduated from high school this year. I'm so proud of them, and so blessed to help lead them in youth ministry.
400. handmade mother's day gifts from Noel and Elise.
401. late night talks.
402. sun tea.
403. the look on Noel's face as he is watching the fields around us be plowed.
404. Noel getting to ride on said tractor!
405. my brother.
406. seeing Bridges students receive awards.
407. playing games and trash talking with Elise.
408. forgiveness. Getting it and giving it.
What are you thankful for?
383. seeing Elise learn to not be afraid of the water.
384. homemade chicken noodle soup.
385. our garden.
386. my very own master gardener, David.
387. weekends with very little obligations.
388. popsicles. Don't they just make everything better?
389. finally getting to record Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part I. I've been waiting forever for it to be on regular tv. Now the trick is finding the time to finish it!
390. having the month off from teaching Sunday School.
391. plans to see our amazing niece, Becca, graduate next Sunday. Valedictorian, baby!!
392. getting to go running with my friend Cara. Too bad I slowed her down!
393. watching Noel learn about friendships, even when it is tough.
394. free danishes and cheese samples for Elise at Sam's Club and Meijer. Makes her actually excited about going grocery shopping!
395. Hannah
396. Cheyanne
397. Michelle
398. Kiley
399. and Evan, who are all graduated from high school this year. I'm so proud of them, and so blessed to help lead them in youth ministry.
400. handmade mother's day gifts from Noel and Elise.
401. late night talks.
402. sun tea.
403. the look on Noel's face as he is watching the fields around us be plowed.
404. Noel getting to ride on said tractor!
405. my brother.
406. seeing Bridges students receive awards.
407. playing games and trash talking with Elise.
408. forgiveness. Getting it and giving it.
What are you thankful for?
Saturday, May 11, 2013
It's the day before Mother's Day. My 7th one as a mother. When I was pregnant with Noel, my mom kept saying, "Your lives will be changed forever." And I knew it was true (of course), but I didn't know just how it would change. There are parts of being a mom that are amazing. Parts that are fun. Parts that are hilarious. There are also parts that are hard, challenging, downright ugly. Motherhood brings tears in all forms. Laughter as well.
Another part of motherhood is just the tediousness of some of it. I'm not gonna lie--getting the kids up, ready, fed, dressed, packed up for school every day of the week is annoying. So are things like making them eat the right foods. Reminding them to be kind. Having conversations for the 35th time about something.
But when I take a breathe and look at those tedious moments, it is then that I see how much God has shown me about my relationship with HIM through those times of parenting. Doesn't He feel the same way when I have to be reminded for the 7,876th time about not worrying? or my attitude? or any number of things I still struggle with? It is in the mundane. The day-in and day-out. The everyday. Where God can work miracles in each of us.
And so, I am thankful for. . .
368. my amazing mother.
369. my grandmother.
370. the adopted mothers I have had throughout my life: CaraJean Rayl, Barb Frederick, Karla Herman, Gail Sackett, and others.
371. my mother-in-law.
372. Noel Edwin.
373. Elise Jo.
374. hugs and kisses from my kids.
375. homemade cards.
376. reading stories at bedtime.
377. eating popsicles on the back porch.
378. playing dress up with Elise.
379. playing Legos with Noel.
380. spring afternoon projects.
381. new flowers, freshly planted.
What are you thankful for?
Another part of motherhood is just the tediousness of some of it. I'm not gonna lie--getting the kids up, ready, fed, dressed, packed up for school every day of the week is annoying. So are things like making them eat the right foods. Reminding them to be kind. Having conversations for the 35th time about something.
But when I take a breathe and look at those tedious moments, it is then that I see how much God has shown me about my relationship with HIM through those times of parenting. Doesn't He feel the same way when I have to be reminded for the 7,876th time about not worrying? or my attitude? or any number of things I still struggle with? It is in the mundane. The day-in and day-out. The everyday. Where God can work miracles in each of us.
And so, I am thankful for. . .
368. my amazing mother.
369. my grandmother.
370. the adopted mothers I have had throughout my life: CaraJean Rayl, Barb Frederick, Karla Herman, Gail Sackett, and others.
371. my mother-in-law.
372. Noel Edwin.
373. Elise Jo.
374. hugs and kisses from my kids.
375. homemade cards.
376. reading stories at bedtime.
377. eating popsicles on the back porch.
378. playing dress up with Elise.
379. playing Legos with Noel.
380. spring afternoon projects.
381. new flowers, freshly planted.
What are you thankful for?
Friday, May 10, 2013
Monday, May 06, 2013
353. This weekend, I helped take 31 Bridges students to an overnighter at Indiana Wesleyan University. I am thankful that these kids had the opportunity to be in a Christian environment, surrounded by people who love and support them, and exposed to a college setting.
354. After the overnighter, I was VERY thankful for my nice, comfy bed.
355. I am thankful for conversations that challenge me and keep me thinking long after the conversation has ended.
356. I am thankful for getting to start planting our garden. Lots of pictures to come!
357. I am thankful for my niece, Baylee, who I got to see win her tennis match tonight. So proud of her!
358. I am thankful for a successful school year for both of the kids.
359. I am thankful for new insight into Bible passages.
360. I am thankful for big, ripe strawberries.
363. I am thankful for quiet moments after the kids go to sleep.
364. I am thankful for hand-me-down jeans.
365. I am thankful for sore muscles.
366. I am thankful for fun events that we hope to have this week: field trips, animal adventures, preschool programs, Pinkalicious, and more!
367. I am thankful for a great sermon at church yesterday.
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, May 01, 2013
These last two weeks have been pretty crazy. Friday, April 19, several areas of Kokomo flooded. Dozens and dozens of houses were damaged, and even more were completely destroyed. As we have been doing flood relief, I look at all of the items that were ruined, and I am overwhelmed. Overwhelmed by the sheer amount of things we have. Overwhelmed with how much clean up is still left. Overwhelmed at the devastation.
But there is ALWAYS thanksgiving to be had.
335. I am thankful that nobody died from the flooding.
336. I am thankful for the hundreds of people who have donated clothing, food, furniture, time, sweat, etc. to help those who lost so much in this flood.
337. I am thankful for the connections I have with different ministries that have really stepped up during this time.
338. I am thankful for opportunities to share God's love in tangible ways to people I probably would never have met.
339. I am thankful that through this ordeal I have met some amazing people.
340. I am thankful for my youth group kids who have jumped in and served.
341. I am thankful for sunshine after the rain.
342. I am thankful for stories of rescue and recovery that are a testimony to the power of God.
343. I am thankful for a dry house.
344. Last night, as we were working with one man to help clean out his house, he was angry. Angry that after all these years of working, he couldn't rest. But in the midst of the anger, he was realizing that some of his "stuff" that was salvageable was better off given to others who had lost so much more. God is moving!
345. I am thankful for my husband, who goes along with my crazy ideas.
346. I am thankful for hearing my children praying for the flood victims.
347. I am thankful for a company who donated a storage facility for donations.
348. I am thankful for reminders that all of our stuff is just that: stuff. Even if my house never floods, I can't take it with me--it will all be gone someday.
349. I am thankful for God's forgiveness for our materialistic mindsets.
350. I am thankful for the passage in Matthew where Jesus tells us to rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn.
351. I am thankful for my niece, Becca, and my nephew, Jacob, who jumped right in and helped with flood relief as soon as they came here to visit this past weekend.
352. I am thankful that I have this day. This hour. This moment. To make a difference for the kingdom. May I not waste it.
What are you thankful for?
But there is ALWAYS thanksgiving to be had.
335. I am thankful that nobody died from the flooding.
336. I am thankful for the hundreds of people who have donated clothing, food, furniture, time, sweat, etc. to help those who lost so much in this flood.
337. I am thankful for the connections I have with different ministries that have really stepped up during this time.
338. I am thankful for opportunities to share God's love in tangible ways to people I probably would never have met.
339. I am thankful that through this ordeal I have met some amazing people.
340. I am thankful for my youth group kids who have jumped in and served.
341. I am thankful for sunshine after the rain.
342. I am thankful for stories of rescue and recovery that are a testimony to the power of God.
343. I am thankful for a dry house.
344. Last night, as we were working with one man to help clean out his house, he was angry. Angry that after all these years of working, he couldn't rest. But in the midst of the anger, he was realizing that some of his "stuff" that was salvageable was better off given to others who had lost so much more. God is moving!
345. I am thankful for my husband, who goes along with my crazy ideas.
346. I am thankful for hearing my children praying for the flood victims.
347. I am thankful for a company who donated a storage facility for donations.
348. I am thankful for reminders that all of our stuff is just that: stuff. Even if my house never floods, I can't take it with me--it will all be gone someday.
349. I am thankful for God's forgiveness for our materialistic mindsets.
350. I am thankful for the passage in Matthew where Jesus tells us to rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn.
351. I am thankful for my niece, Becca, and my nephew, Jacob, who jumped right in and helped with flood relief as soon as they came here to visit this past weekend.
352. I am thankful that I have this day. This hour. This moment. To make a difference for the kingdom. May I not waste it.
What are you thankful for?
Thursday, April 25, 2013
331.Last Friday, due to the flooding in our town, we had an impromptu birthday party with Noel and Elise's friends who are usually in school during the day. I am thankful for this funny face, which pretty much sums up Elise's personality that day.
332. I am thankful for "big girls" who have befriended Elise.
333. I am thankful for cupcakes, icing, and decorations.
334. I am thankful for another year of life for Elise.
What are you thankful for?
332. I am thankful for "big girls" who have befriended Elise.
333. I am thankful for cupcakes, icing, and decorations.
334. I am thankful for another year of life for Elise.
What are you thankful for?
322. I am thankful for these funny faces.
323. I am thankful for trips to Fazoli's.
324. I am thankful for good friends for my kids.
325. I am thankful for the fun of a new birthday gift.
326. I am thankful for sweet baby smiles!
327. I am thankful for Elise getting to have her first "girls' spa day".
328. I am thankful for sweet smiles from my birthday girl.
329. I am thankful for Elise's friend, Ella. They love being together!
330. I am thankful for a friend recommending a place where they paint little girls' nails really cheap!
What are you thankful for?
Friday, April 19, 2013
The rains cam down
313. I am thankful that we are safe and dry.
314. I am thankful that, because of some school cancellations due to flooding, we are having an impromptu birthday party for Elise this afternoon!
315. I am thankful for blog posts from old friends that remind me of how important it is to get out there and love on people.
316. I am thankful that I am (slowly) learning that change is not always bad.
317. I am thankful for a free cup of Starbucks coffee today.
318. I am thankful that almost 10 years ago, a flood (and God, and some friends and family) finally pushed David and me together.
319. I am thankful for police, firemen, and all other emergency workers who risk their lives to keep others safe.
320. I am thankful for childlike faith to remind me that God is in control, no matter what.
321. I am thankful that this weekend I get to celebrate my parents' 50th anniversary. They are such an example of perseverance, faith, and loyalty.
What are you thankful for?
314. I am thankful that, because of some school cancellations due to flooding, we are having an impromptu birthday party for Elise this afternoon!
315. I am thankful for blog posts from old friends that remind me of how important it is to get out there and love on people.
316. I am thankful that I am (slowly) learning that change is not always bad.
317. I am thankful for a free cup of Starbucks coffee today.
318. I am thankful that almost 10 years ago, a flood (and God, and some friends and family) finally pushed David and me together.
319. I am thankful for police, firemen, and all other emergency workers who risk their lives to keep others safe.
320. I am thankful for childlike faith to remind me that God is in control, no matter what.
321. I am thankful that this weekend I get to celebrate my parents' 50th anniversary. They are such an example of perseverance, faith, and loyalty.
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
302. Today is the beginning of the week-long celebration of Elise turning 4. I can't even remember what life was like before this little ball of fire, energy, love, humor, and sweetness came into our lives.
303. I am thankful that she has some buddies she can spend the afternoon with.
304. I am thankful that Elise has a big brother who is also her best friend.
305. I am thankful that 4 years ago God was watching over us as we found out Elise had to come by emergency C-section. I don't think I've ever been so scared in my life.
306. I am thankful that God is shaping me through raising a daughter who is, in many many ways, just like me. Nothing like a little mirror to find out what you need help on.
307. I am thankful that I get to spend these years at home with her and Noel to watch them grow, learn, change, and become who God has made them to be.
308. I am thankful that Elise has a great father.
309. I am thankful that Elise has wonderful grandparents who love her and encourage her.
310. I am thankful for the 12 cousins (and aunts and uncles) that make life more fun for Noel and Elise.
311. I am thankful for the upcoming fun we have planned this week to keep the party going!
312. I am thankful for all of the ways seeing life through a child's eyes changes you. She reminds me to stop and look at the squirrels. To have fun walking into the grocery store. To play and dance more.
313. I am thankful that, even though it is scary raising a child, not knowing what their future is going to be, fearing for their safety as I read the news and watch events unfold around us, that OUR GOD IS GREATER. His light will shine in the darkness, and so we hold onto that even tighter.
What are you thankful for?
303. I am thankful that she has some buddies she can spend the afternoon with.
304. I am thankful that Elise has a big brother who is also her best friend.
305. I am thankful that 4 years ago God was watching over us as we found out Elise had to come by emergency C-section. I don't think I've ever been so scared in my life.
306. I am thankful that God is shaping me through raising a daughter who is, in many many ways, just like me. Nothing like a little mirror to find out what you need help on.
307. I am thankful that I get to spend these years at home with her and Noel to watch them grow, learn, change, and become who God has made them to be.
308. I am thankful that Elise has a great father.
309. I am thankful that Elise has wonderful grandparents who love her and encourage her.
310. I am thankful for the 12 cousins (and aunts and uncles) that make life more fun for Noel and Elise.
311. I am thankful for the upcoming fun we have planned this week to keep the party going!
312. I am thankful for all of the ways seeing life through a child's eyes changes you. She reminds me to stop and look at the squirrels. To have fun walking into the grocery store. To play and dance more.
313. I am thankful that, even though it is scary raising a child, not knowing what their future is going to be, fearing for their safety as I read the news and watch events unfold around us, that OUR GOD IS GREATER. His light will shine in the darkness, and so we hold onto that even tighter.
What are you thankful for?
Friday, April 12, 2013
Good news/Bad news
The good news about deciding to write about what I'm thankful for this year is that it forces me to avoid complaining. I have some things that I kind of want to rant about, but since they aren't with a thankful heart, I am avoiding them. This is hard for me, but a good lesson.
The bad news is that I have some other thoughts rolling around in my head that I'd like to share on my blog but aren't necessarily "thankful", just observational. So maybe today I will try and form those observations into my thanks.
296. I am thankful for frequent reminders that I need to make every moment count. We are not promised tomorrow. Anything could change in a split second. And while that can sometimes keep me awake at night full of stress and worry, what that truth should do is motivate me to make every single moment of my life count. Life is too short to get all bothered over somebody's actions that I take way too personally. Life is too short to be crabby with the cashier. Life is too short to go to bed angry at your spouse or kids.
297. I am thankful that I have finally got my crap together (sort of) and got on the healthy wagon. I'm not saying I'm 100% good-to-go or anything, but I have been making baby steps towards better eating habits for the past 6 months, and it has paid off. I feel good, and I'm back to my wedding weight. I'd like to lose about 15 more pounds. But more importantly, I want to live a healthy life, and I am learning little ways to do that. Let's face it: I'm no spring chicken anymore, so I can't be living on junk food like I tend to do when nobody is looking.
298. March and April have been rough on my kids, physically. First, we had Noel's ordeal in the hospital. And for the last three weeks, Elise has had some sort of on-again/off-again virus, which has come in the form of high fevers and one week of nasty coughing. It has been very discouraging. BUT (here's the thanks) God is using this time to teach me a)I need to slow down and love on my kids, seeing them as blessings instead of responsibilities b)no matter how far I have come, I am still so incredibly selfish, and God has a lot of work left to do on my heart.
299. I am thankful for appliances that work.
300. I am thankful for kids who (usually) sleep through storms.
301. I am thankful that God is the ultimate healer.
What are you thankful for?
The bad news is that I have some other thoughts rolling around in my head that I'd like to share on my blog but aren't necessarily "thankful", just observational. So maybe today I will try and form those observations into my thanks.
296. I am thankful for frequent reminders that I need to make every moment count. We are not promised tomorrow. Anything could change in a split second. And while that can sometimes keep me awake at night full of stress and worry, what that truth should do is motivate me to make every single moment of my life count. Life is too short to get all bothered over somebody's actions that I take way too personally. Life is too short to be crabby with the cashier. Life is too short to go to bed angry at your spouse or kids.
297. I am thankful that I have finally got my crap together (sort of) and got on the healthy wagon. I'm not saying I'm 100% good-to-go or anything, but I have been making baby steps towards better eating habits for the past 6 months, and it has paid off. I feel good, and I'm back to my wedding weight. I'd like to lose about 15 more pounds. But more importantly, I want to live a healthy life, and I am learning little ways to do that. Let's face it: I'm no spring chicken anymore, so I can't be living on junk food like I tend to do when nobody is looking.
298. March and April have been rough on my kids, physically. First, we had Noel's ordeal in the hospital. And for the last three weeks, Elise has had some sort of on-again/off-again virus, which has come in the form of high fevers and one week of nasty coughing. It has been very discouraging. BUT (here's the thanks) God is using this time to teach me a)I need to slow down and love on my kids, seeing them as blessings instead of responsibilities b)no matter how far I have come, I am still so incredibly selfish, and God has a lot of work left to do on my heart.
299. I am thankful for appliances that work.
300. I am thankful for kids who (usually) sleep through storms.
301. I am thankful that God is the ultimate healer.
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
It's Here! It's Here!
Welcome, spring!!! Please stay for a while!
I am thankful for . . .
290. Getting to be outside!! We have spent the majority of the week outside, and it has been so much fun! (Plus, my house doesn't get near as dirty!)
291. Watching Noel and David fly a kite last night in the back yard. We have a field right behind us, and Noel decided to run out as far as he could. It was hilarious. And then he and a neighbor boy hunted for golf balls. I love it.
292. My dear friend Cara inviting the kids over yesterday to play so I could have a break from them. I love my kids, and I love staying home with them, but spring break was A LOT of time together, not to mention Elise being sick the week before, giving us even MORE time. So it was nice to take a breath and get a few things donw.
293. getting started on several back yard projects. New trees, new plants, garden, etc. It's work, but it's fun, too!
294. a perfect view out my back window to watch a thunderstorm roll in.
295. moments where I hear God's voice. Even if my first response is, "Really? Are You SURE You want me to do that?"
What are you thankful for?
I am thankful for . . .
290. Getting to be outside!! We have spent the majority of the week outside, and it has been so much fun! (Plus, my house doesn't get near as dirty!)
291. Watching Noel and David fly a kite last night in the back yard. We have a field right behind us, and Noel decided to run out as far as he could. It was hilarious. And then he and a neighbor boy hunted for golf balls. I love it.
292. My dear friend Cara inviting the kids over yesterday to play so I could have a break from them. I love my kids, and I love staying home with them, but spring break was A LOT of time together, not to mention Elise being sick the week before, giving us even MORE time. So it was nice to take a breath and get a few things donw.
293. getting started on several back yard projects. New trees, new plants, garden, etc. It's work, but it's fun, too!
294. a perfect view out my back window to watch a thunderstorm roll in.
295. moments where I hear God's voice. Even if my first response is, "Really? Are You SURE You want me to do that?"
What are you thankful for?
Monday, April 08, 2013
Photo Dump
According to my calculations, I should be around the 300 mark in my thanksgivings right now. I'm about 40 shy, so the best way to share my recent thanks is through a big old photo dump! Get ready!
254. Noel saved up all of his Christmas money and savings and bought a Lego kit. Can you see his excitement?
255. Aren't we all a little thankful for Amazon packages?
256. I could say a lot about what I am thankful for just by looking at this picture, but I was most thankful that Elise was finally well. She had some nasty virus the whole week before Easter, and she was finally feeling better in time to put on her new dress and "high heels". We love our Leesy Jo Jo!
257. This picture shows each of their personalities so well. I love how different they are, and how much they compliment each other (kind of like their parents!)
258. I am so thankful for my family. For so long I prayed that God would lead me to the right person, and my prayers were answered more than I ever dreamed.
259. Our nephew, Tye, carved this beautiful wood piece for David's parents for Christmas. Linda had seen one just like it and wanted to buy it, but it wasn't for sale. He took a picture and worked for hours and hours to replicate it. Amazing!
260. This past weekend we took a couple of days to visit Cincinnati. One of our first stops was the Newport Aquarium
261. The kids learned all about different sea creatures, and even touched a horseshoe crab.
262. One of the exhibits lets you talk to scuba divers while they are in the tank with sharks!
263. Aren't God's creatures amazing?
264. Getting up close and personal with an alligator.
265. my little comedian.
266. my little picture queen.
267. How can you not love the penguins?
268. balloon creations!
269. He is growing up right before my eyes.
270. My friend Jackie recommended a park to visit, and it was great! Such a beautiful spring day.
271. My guys.
272. On Saturday we visited the Cincinnati Zoo. We were fortunate enough to meet up with our friends Brian and Ashley Craw, who live near Lexington, and hang out with them and their little boy Hudson.
273. Seeing a mountain lion at the zoo makes me thankful that David wasn't hurt by the one he ran into in Oregon on a trail 2 years ago! Crazy!
274. Why, hello, there, Mr. Tiger. What nice breath you have!
275. The gorillas are always fascinating.
276. Merry go rounds.
277. If you look closely, you will see Noel on the zebra. He isn't looking at me because he is inspecting the entire merry go round, trying to figure out how it works. No doubt whose kid he is.
278. They both loved the flamingos. Noel couldn't get over how they stand so balanced on one leg.
279. Noel found a new buddy.
280. Elise, Noel, and Hudson.
281. Hugs all around.
282. The long anticipated train ride!
283. This might be my favorite picture of the whole weekend. I was trying to explain to Noel that there is joy in every journey as he waited and waited for the train ride. He loved it.
284. The elephants.
285. My favorite girl with my favorite animal. Perfect ending to our zoo trip.
I am also thankful for . . .
286. getting to see our nephew Aaron while we were down in Cincinnati.
287. hotel swimming pools.
288. green grass.
289. sleeping in my own bed after a trip.
What are you thankful for?
254. Noel saved up all of his Christmas money and savings and bought a Lego kit. Can you see his excitement?
255. Aren't we all a little thankful for Amazon packages?
259. Our nephew, Tye, carved this beautiful wood piece for David's parents for Christmas. Linda had seen one just like it and wanted to buy it, but it wasn't for sale. He took a picture and worked for hours and hours to replicate it. Amazing!
263. Aren't God's creatures amazing?
265. my little comedian.
271. My guys.
273. Seeing a mountain lion at the zoo makes me thankful that David wasn't hurt by the one he ran into in Oregon on a trail 2 years ago! Crazy!
277. If you look closely, you will see Noel on the zebra. He isn't looking at me because he is inspecting the entire merry go round, trying to figure out how it works. No doubt whose kid he is.
I am also thankful for . . .
286. getting to see our nephew Aaron while we were down in Cincinnati.
287. hotel swimming pools.
288. green grass.
289. sleeping in my own bed after a trip.
What are you thankful for?
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