Thursday, March 28, 2013
I am thankful for. . .
240. signing up Noel for 1st grade at my alma mater, Western Primary School. It will be a new adventure for all of us.
241. March Madness! I love the buzzer beaters, the stories that make me cry, and the excitement. David and I have had lots of March Madness memories, from watching them in the hospital while he had kidney stones (not so fun) to being at the game when State made it to the Final Four (so fun). Can't wait for more games this weekend.
242. continuing to learn about healthy foods and how they help my family and me. Who knew fiber was so good for you? Well, me, obviously.
243. a good conversation with my dearest friend when I was about to pull my hair out last night.
244. finding a new coffee shop where I can read and drink blueberry coffee (when my kids are healthy and I have an hour to myself).
245. post-it notes stuck to my coffee pot reminding me of why I fell in love with David in the first place.
246. seeing God change people's hearts.
247. the reminder that life is short, so live every moment to its fullest.
248. Easter. How can I put that in one number? I can't. This week, I have been reading through the Gospels' accounts of Jesus' last week before His crucifixion. I am reminded again of how thankful I am for
249. His compassion.
250. His PASSION.
251. the way He could turn a situation around and make a lesson with it.
252. His decision to follow the Father's will.
253. getting to teach this to my children.
I will never be thankful enough for the cross. For forgiveness. For the price that was paid. For us.
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
I can't believe another week has gone by without me blogging any of my thanks. Buckle in, because here we go.
230. I am thankful for this peanut. She is growing up so fast. This is the plate she make for the preschool's "Mother's Tea".
231. So proud of her and happy to be her mom.
232. This is Lainey, one of Elise's friends. I love seeing how excited they are to be together.
233. Elise is learning some photography skills. Ha!
234. Hearing the preschoolers sing. It makes me tear up every time.
235. Painting Easter Eggs. Then the kids hid them for me to find. 2 are still missing in action.
236. Enjoying painting.
237. adorable, even when she has a fever.
238. Monday we had a snow day. A March snow day is certainly unexpected (and a little disappointing), but I am thankful for an amazing husband who takes the kids out in the snow and plays with them, even after a long day at work.
239. Russ spoke Sunday morning about how Christ's sacrifice broke down the wall of sin that separates us from God. It was soooo good!
What are you thankful for?
230. I am thankful for this peanut. She is growing up so fast. This is the plate she make for the preschool's "Mother's Tea".
231. So proud of her and happy to be her mom.
232. This is Lainey, one of Elise's friends. I love seeing how excited they are to be together.
233. Elise is learning some photography skills. Ha!
234. Hearing the preschoolers sing. It makes me tear up every time.
236. Enjoying painting.
238. Monday we had a snow day. A March snow day is certainly unexpected (and a little disappointing), but I am thankful for an amazing husband who takes the kids out in the snow and plays with them, even after a long day at work.
239. Russ spoke Sunday morning about how Christ's sacrifice broke down the wall of sin that separates us from God. It was soooo good!
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
There are a few things that have been on my mind recently. Some serious, some not-so serious. So, pardon me while I just dump the contents of my brain out in this random blog post.
209. Noel is back to his usual self, and for that we are so thankful. It took him a good week to get over being in the hospital. I have learned over the past 6 1/2 years of being a parent that I am way freaky/paranoid about some things that I never dreamed I would be. One good example: the kids getting sick.
210. On the other hand, I am surprisingly not as worried about other things as I thought I would be, like them hitting certain milestones at a specific time (reading, pottytraining, etc.) So, it's a give and take.
211. I am so thankful that we have had this year for Noel to go to half-day kindergarten. I know he is 6. I know that by now most kids are in school all day. But I also know that this past year of having the afternoons with him was totally worth it. He has the next 12 years to be in school all day, right?
212. I've been working on eating more healthy and getting fit since Thanksgiving. I am thankful that I have a husband who loves me no matter what size jeans I wear, but who is also there to cheer me on when I see some success.
213. Along with that, things in the weight-loss area have been. . .slow. It is easy to get discouraged when I watch The Biggest Loser and see people dropping in one week what it has taken me 3 months to do. But I am thankful that I have a healthy body, that I am learning more every day about how to make that body more healthy, and that in the end there are more important things in my life than what the number on my scales say. But I'm still trying!!
214.I am thankful that God teaches me lessons when I really do listen.
215. That soup I tried last week? Amazing.
216. This week begins my favorite season of the year: March Madness!
217. I am thankful that I don't have a job, so I can watch all of the games I want during this time!
218. This past weekend, about 50 students had a fasting overnighter at the church, where they learned about poverty, famine, and what we can do to help. Thank you, God, for students who care about the world around them.
219. Those same students spent part of the time painting a house that Kokomo Urban Outreach was given to use in our community. So thankful that we get to see God's work come alive in so many ways.
220. I am thankful that the Crossing students have finished another quarter! Keep those credits coming!
221. I am thankful for having my own personal smoothie king right here in my house!
222. I am thankful that Little Miss Grumpy Pants usually brightens up as the day goes on. She actually refused to smile for the camera. Oh, the drama!
And, since this blog is getting to be very long, I will briefly add 7 more things for which I am very thankful:
223. my crockpot.
224. alone time.
225. sunsets.
226. soft three-year-old feet.
227. popcorn.
228. seed catalogs for my husband to drool over.
229. Tom Izzo and the Spartans. Go Green!
What are you thankful for?
209. Noel is back to his usual self, and for that we are so thankful. It took him a good week to get over being in the hospital. I have learned over the past 6 1/2 years of being a parent that I am way freaky/paranoid about some things that I never dreamed I would be. One good example: the kids getting sick.
210. On the other hand, I am surprisingly not as worried about other things as I thought I would be, like them hitting certain milestones at a specific time (reading, pottytraining, etc.) So, it's a give and take.
211. I am so thankful that we have had this year for Noel to go to half-day kindergarten. I know he is 6. I know that by now most kids are in school all day. But I also know that this past year of having the afternoons with him was totally worth it. He has the next 12 years to be in school all day, right?
212. I've been working on eating more healthy and getting fit since Thanksgiving. I am thankful that I have a husband who loves me no matter what size jeans I wear, but who is also there to cheer me on when I see some success.
213. Along with that, things in the weight-loss area have been. . .slow. It is easy to get discouraged when I watch The Biggest Loser and see people dropping in one week what it has taken me 3 months to do. But I am thankful that I have a healthy body, that I am learning more every day about how to make that body more healthy, and that in the end there are more important things in my life than what the number on my scales say. But I'm still trying!!
214.I am thankful that God teaches me lessons when I really do listen.
215. That soup I tried last week? Amazing.
216. This week begins my favorite season of the year: March Madness!
217. I am thankful that I don't have a job, so I can watch all of the games I want during this time!
218. This past weekend, about 50 students had a fasting overnighter at the church, where they learned about poverty, famine, and what we can do to help. Thank you, God, for students who care about the world around them.
219. Those same students spent part of the time painting a house that Kokomo Urban Outreach was given to use in our community. So thankful that we get to see God's work come alive in so many ways.
220. I am thankful that the Crossing students have finished another quarter! Keep those credits coming!
222. I am thankful that Little Miss Grumpy Pants usually brightens up as the day goes on. She actually refused to smile for the camera. Oh, the drama!
And, since this blog is getting to be very long, I will briefly add 7 more things for which I am very thankful:
223. my crockpot.
224. alone time.
225. sunsets.
226. soft three-year-old feet.
227. popcorn.
228. seed catalogs for my husband to drool over.
229. Tom Izzo and the Spartans. Go Green!
What are you thankful for?
Monday, March 11, 2013
We are finally getting things back to "normal", meaning that there isn't a barf bucket in anyone's reach. We had such a nice, relaxing weekend, and are so happy to begin another week.
I am thankful for. . .
197. getting to see Santana after her time in Haiti. Had a great time talking to her and some of my old lifegroup girls. Their words were so encouraging to me.
198. my friend Laura, who speaks truth to these college-age girls who are surrounded by so much that is not true.
199. Noel getting to go back to school on Friday!! Yee-haw!
200. getting to go bowling with students and families of the Crossing. We had a great time.
201. warmer weather. It's soggy, muddy, and rainy out, but it's not snow anymore. David and I walked around the yard yesterday, making our lists of what all we wanted to do in the spring and summer.
202. getting to see one of our missionary families whom I have known since I was a little girl. Hearing about the work being done in Thailand makes me want to jump on a plane tomorrow.
203. getting to share stories from the Bible with middle school students who have never heard some of the great ones. Come on, who doesn't love Ehud?
204. newfound motivation to keep on the weight-loss/healthy eating plan. I. can. do. this.
205. new markers. Actually, I am a sucker for any kind of new school supply: markers, pens, pencils, highlighters. mmmmmmm...
206. the excitement of upcoming vacation ideas/plans
207. card games (any favorites out there?)
208. a new soup recipe on a rainy day. Trying out this one.
What are you thankful for?
I am thankful for. . .
197. getting to see Santana after her time in Haiti. Had a great time talking to her and some of my old lifegroup girls. Their words were so encouraging to me.
198. my friend Laura, who speaks truth to these college-age girls who are surrounded by so much that is not true.
199. Noel getting to go back to school on Friday!! Yee-haw!
200. getting to go bowling with students and families of the Crossing. We had a great time.
201. warmer weather. It's soggy, muddy, and rainy out, but it's not snow anymore. David and I walked around the yard yesterday, making our lists of what all we wanted to do in the spring and summer.
202. getting to see one of our missionary families whom I have known since I was a little girl. Hearing about the work being done in Thailand makes me want to jump on a plane tomorrow.
203. getting to share stories from the Bible with middle school students who have never heard some of the great ones. Come on, who doesn't love Ehud?
204. newfound motivation to keep on the weight-loss/healthy eating plan. I. can. do. this.
205. new markers. Actually, I am a sucker for any kind of new school supply: markers, pens, pencils, highlighters. mmmmmmm...
206. the excitement of upcoming vacation ideas/plans
207. card games (any favorites out there?)
208. a new soup recipe on a rainy day. Trying out this one.
What are you thankful for?
Friday, March 08, 2013
Thursday, March 07, 2013
What a week it has been! And it's only Thursday!
Well, after my last post, we ended up taking Noel to the emergency room. He was eventually admitted so he could get rehydrated. They also found that his heart was doing some weird stuff. Needless to say, it has been a rollercoaster of a week. But he is home, safe and sound. He is still weak and tired, and doesn't want to eat much. But he is getting better by the hour.
191. I am thankful for a husband who listens to my wild rantings when he shows up and I say, "You have to take this kid to the er. . . RIGHT NOW!" even when there is a snowstorm.
192. I am thankful for that same husband staying up ALL NIGHT in the hospital with Noel, holding his hand while he got blood drawn and his very first IV ever put in. Once again, I don't know how single parents do it.
193. I am thankful for so many thoughtful calls, emails, and texts through this week to keep me encouraged and sane.
194. I am thankful that while we were in the hospital with Noel, Elise got to play in the snow, dress up, and make messes with her buddy instead of having to sit in a germy hospital room.
195. I am thankful for laughter after 3 days of sadness. I was talking to the kids last night, just asking them questions about their plans for the future--
Me: Where do you think you'll live when you grow up?
Elise: Chicago.
Noel: Underground.
Me: Underground?
Noel: Yep. I'm going to be a mole when I grow up.
Yes, of course. Why didn't I think of that.
196. I am thankful that it is one day away from Friday! Let the relaxing begin!!
What are you thankful for?
Well, after my last post, we ended up taking Noel to the emergency room. He was eventually admitted so he could get rehydrated. They also found that his heart was doing some weird stuff. Needless to say, it has been a rollercoaster of a week. But he is home, safe and sound. He is still weak and tired, and doesn't want to eat much. But he is getting better by the hour.
191. I am thankful for a husband who listens to my wild rantings when he shows up and I say, "You have to take this kid to the er. . . RIGHT NOW!" even when there is a snowstorm.
192. I am thankful for that same husband staying up ALL NIGHT in the hospital with Noel, holding his hand while he got blood drawn and his very first IV ever put in. Once again, I don't know how single parents do it.
193. I am thankful for so many thoughtful calls, emails, and texts through this week to keep me encouraged and sane.
194. I am thankful that while we were in the hospital with Noel, Elise got to play in the snow, dress up, and make messes with her buddy instead of having to sit in a germy hospital room.
195. I am thankful for laughter after 3 days of sadness. I was talking to the kids last night, just asking them questions about their plans for the future--
Me: Where do you think you'll live when you grow up?
Elise: Chicago.
Noel: Underground.
Me: Underground?
Noel: Yep. I'm going to be a mole when I grow up.
Yes, of course. Why didn't I think of that.
196. I am thankful that it is one day away from Friday! Let the relaxing begin!!
What are you thankful for?
Tuesday, March 05, 2013
Always Something to be Thankful for
As I am writing this, Noel is on the couch with the stomach bug. He has been sick for three days. I am so over it. Over seeing him hurting. Over dealing with puke. Over telling him he can't have anything to eat or drink, even as he is pleading with me for some Gatorade.
Yet, in the midst of this, I can still choose to be thankful. It is up to me to see God's love, His blessings, His guidance, His sovereignty, even when we are knee-deep in yuck.
I am thankful for. . .
173. getting to share with different people about the Crossing.
174. finding a new place to buy a cup of coffee.
175. new episodes of Parks and Recreation.
176. a washer and dryer that work.
177. family dinners at my mom and dad's house.
178. getting some encouragement from a parent of a student in my jr. high Sunday School class. He actually remembered the story!
179. seeing The Wall (listing all of the unreached people groups in the world) and getting to pray over it with my high school students.
180. hearing Elise play with Barbies. Hilarious.
181. new opportunities opening up for Urban Outreach and Bridges with a new house for interns.
182. ginger ale and Gatorade.
183. a great discussion with the missions committee last night.
184. getting to make my kids laugh.
185. finding new workout videos on Youtube. I'm hurting, but in a good way.
186. all of the days that my kids are healthy.
187. seeing my nieces and nephews grow up into amazing adults.
188. my siblings.
189. David's siblings.
190. my neighbor and friend, Angie, who takes my one of my kids to school when the other one is sick.
What are you thankful for?
Yet, in the midst of this, I can still choose to be thankful. It is up to me to see God's love, His blessings, His guidance, His sovereignty, even when we are knee-deep in yuck.
I am thankful for. . .
173. getting to share with different people about the Crossing.
174. finding a new place to buy a cup of coffee.
175. new episodes of Parks and Recreation.
176. a washer and dryer that work.
177. family dinners at my mom and dad's house.
178. getting some encouragement from a parent of a student in my jr. high Sunday School class. He actually remembered the story!
179. seeing The Wall (listing all of the unreached people groups in the world) and getting to pray over it with my high school students.
180. hearing Elise play with Barbies. Hilarious.
181. new opportunities opening up for Urban Outreach and Bridges with a new house for interns.
182. ginger ale and Gatorade.
183. a great discussion with the missions committee last night.
184. getting to make my kids laugh.
185. finding new workout videos on Youtube. I'm hurting, but in a good way.
186. all of the days that my kids are healthy.
187. seeing my nieces and nephews grow up into amazing adults.
188. my siblings.
189. David's siblings.
190. my neighbor and friend, Angie, who takes my one of my kids to school when the other one is sick.
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
167. I am thankful for the fact that I don't have a job at the moment. Tuesday Elise woke up with a little tummy trouble (aka: diarrhea :( ). I was very thankful that I didn't have to rush around and find a sitter or change my work schedule. I could just get Noel to school and then make sure she was okay. Oh, and wash/Lysol everything in the house!
168. I am thankful for God convicting me and pushing me. I've been reading David Platt's new book, Follow Me, and he focuses a lot on the fact that just because you say you are a Christian does not make you a follower of Christ. I've got to be living it out! Today, I had a conversation with an acquaintance, and I could just feel God saying, "Talk to her about your faith." It is so easy for me to serve. To bake something or donate something. And it is so very hard for me to have serious, important conversations. But I did. And it was good. Thank you, God.
169. I am thankful that Noel is branching out and making new friends. He started the school year with 2 buddies, and when asked about the other kids in his class, he said, "I don't need to make friends. I have my 2 friends." But over the course of the year he has become friends with some of the other boys in the class. We went to McDonald's to meet a couple of them today, and it was so nice to see him play with them (even if it was so loud my ears were ringing and so germy I know there will be something gross to come)
170. I am thankful for husband's level-headedness. Right now his company is a hot mess. They are firing people left and right, and it is a mad house. If I were him, I would be freaking out. But he is faithful in the knowledge that he can't control it, so there is no sense in worrying about it. I admire him.
171. I am thankful for my new pair of orange and green Saucony shoes that I got from Goodwill today for $5.
172. I am thankful for a place to put all of my "thanks". This has been a growing and learning experience for me.
What are you thankful for?
168. I am thankful for God convicting me and pushing me. I've been reading David Platt's new book, Follow Me, and he focuses a lot on the fact that just because you say you are a Christian does not make you a follower of Christ. I've got to be living it out! Today, I had a conversation with an acquaintance, and I could just feel God saying, "Talk to her about your faith." It is so easy for me to serve. To bake something or donate something. And it is so very hard for me to have serious, important conversations. But I did. And it was good. Thank you, God.
169. I am thankful that Noel is branching out and making new friends. He started the school year with 2 buddies, and when asked about the other kids in his class, he said, "I don't need to make friends. I have my 2 friends." But over the course of the year he has become friends with some of the other boys in the class. We went to McDonald's to meet a couple of them today, and it was so nice to see him play with them (even if it was so loud my ears were ringing and so germy I know there will be something gross to come)
170. I am thankful for husband's level-headedness. Right now his company is a hot mess. They are firing people left and right, and it is a mad house. If I were him, I would be freaking out. But he is faithful in the knowledge that he can't control it, so there is no sense in worrying about it. I admire him.
171. I am thankful for my new pair of orange and green Saucony shoes that I got from Goodwill today for $5.
172. I am thankful for a place to put all of my "thanks". This has been a growing and learning experience for me.
What are you thankful for?
Monday, February 25, 2013
A Week's Worth of Thanks
I'm not going to number these, but I am sure there are enough thanks in these next few paragraphs to cover numbers 146-166 for last week.
First of all, I am thankful that I get to be a part of different ministries in our community. I especially love it when I get to see some of the "behind-the-scenes" action that is going on. People stepping up at the perfect time to help with something, reminding us OVER AND OVER that God has everything in the palm of His hand. I am also thankful that through the course of helping with these ministries I have been inspired by other people. I could write pages about what I have learned from Jeff, Sue, Jackie, Rick, James, Shannon, Casey, Chelsea, Zo, and Chad (just to name a few). Please know that whatever you are doing for God, is does not go unnoticed.
Thursday afternoon, the four of us headed over to visit David's sister, Christy, and her family. Also, David's mom was there visiting, so the kids were really excited! We stayed in Findlay with everyone until Friday morning, and then David and I headed off to Columbus for a little getaway.
The kids had a great time playing with Christy, Steve, and Linda. There is NEVER a shortage of dress up clothes at the Dean house.
Poor Elise got sick the day after we left. But she was a trooper and had a good time regardless.
We didn't do anything spectacular in Columbus, just spend time together. All I wanted was to have some down time with just the two of us, and it was perfect. David did some researching, and found Katzinger's Deli, which was on "The Best Thing I Ever Ate". David had a Reuben that he said was the best thing he ate all weekend. I had a mozzarella, pesto, and tomato sandwich. Sooooo good. The best part for David was the barrels full of free pickles that you could help yourself to. If you know David, you know that pickles are just about his most favorite food in the world. He was in deli heaven.
We wandered around Columbus all afternoon and then went to see Life of Pi (in 3-D, no less). It was spectacular. I highly recommend reading the book before seeing the movie, though. We ate at a local taco place, and then went to Jeni's Ice Cream for dessert. Oh. My. Stars. The way David felt about the pickles was the way I felt about Jeni's Ice Cream. It was just amazing. I had an ice cream sandwich with hazelnut, dark chocolate, and almond. I'm smiling right now just thinking about it.
The next morning, before heading back to Findlay, we stopped to get some breakfast. We heard there was a diner near OSU campus that was good, so we went to check it out. The place was a total dive, and it was jam packed. We ended up sitting next to this guy, Bob, who talked to us the whole time. He told us his whole life story, and the stories of most of the people in the restaurant. It was hilarious. He even hugged me when we left and said I made his day. Oh, Bob.
All in all, it was a wonderful weekend to be with family. We are so thankful for the many people who show love to us by loving our children.
What are you thankful for?
First of all, I am thankful that I get to be a part of different ministries in our community. I especially love it when I get to see some of the "behind-the-scenes" action that is going on. People stepping up at the perfect time to help with something, reminding us OVER AND OVER that God has everything in the palm of His hand. I am also thankful that through the course of helping with these ministries I have been inspired by other people. I could write pages about what I have learned from Jeff, Sue, Jackie, Rick, James, Shannon, Casey, Chelsea, Zo, and Chad (just to name a few). Please know that whatever you are doing for God, is does not go unnoticed.
Thursday afternoon, the four of us headed over to visit David's sister, Christy, and her family. Also, David's mom was there visiting, so the kids were really excited! We stayed in Findlay with everyone until Friday morning, and then David and I headed off to Columbus for a little getaway.
The kids had a great time playing with Christy, Steve, and Linda. There is NEVER a shortage of dress up clothes at the Dean house.
Poor Elise got sick the day after we left. But she was a trooper and had a good time regardless.
We didn't do anything spectacular in Columbus, just spend time together. All I wanted was to have some down time with just the two of us, and it was perfect. David did some researching, and found Katzinger's Deli, which was on "The Best Thing I Ever Ate". David had a Reuben that he said was the best thing he ate all weekend. I had a mozzarella, pesto, and tomato sandwich. Sooooo good. The best part for David was the barrels full of free pickles that you could help yourself to. If you know David, you know that pickles are just about his most favorite food in the world. He was in deli heaven.
We wandered around Columbus all afternoon and then went to see Life of Pi (in 3-D, no less). It was spectacular. I highly recommend reading the book before seeing the movie, though. We ate at a local taco place, and then went to Jeni's Ice Cream for dessert. Oh. My. Stars. The way David felt about the pickles was the way I felt about Jeni's Ice Cream. It was just amazing. I had an ice cream sandwich with hazelnut, dark chocolate, and almond. I'm smiling right now just thinking about it.
The next morning, before heading back to Findlay, we stopped to get some breakfast. We heard there was a diner near OSU campus that was good, so we went to check it out. The place was a total dive, and it was jam packed. We ended up sitting next to this guy, Bob, who talked to us the whole time. He told us his whole life story, and the stories of most of the people in the restaurant. It was hilarious. He even hugged me when we left and said I made his day. Oh, Bob.
All in all, it was a wonderful weekend to be with family. We are so thankful for the many people who show love to us by loving our children.
What are you thankful for?
Monday, February 18, 2013
I am thankful for. . .
132. fun times watching the kids enjoy Valentine's Day.
133. getting to listen to this cd that we borrowed from the library.
134. finishing this book last week and . . .
135. starting this one
.
136. getting to try out the crepe restaurant in the nearby town.
137. getting to see one of my lifegroup girls recognized at a basketball game. Go Tessa!
138. helping lead worship Sunday morning with my good old guitar, Sugar.
139. sunshine.
140. my nephew, Jonathan, who turned 20 this weekend. Wow, do I feel old. But so proud of him.
141. the sound of Noel learning to read.
142. my crockpot.
143. a day off of school for the kids to just hang out, relax, and catch up (aka: destroy the house!)
144. memories that make me laugh, even years later.
145. the relevancy of the Bible, even after all of these years.
146. every healthy day.
What are you thankful for?
132. fun times watching the kids enjoy Valentine's Day.
133. getting to listen to this cd that we borrowed from the library.
134. finishing this book last week and . . .
135. starting this one
.
136. getting to try out the crepe restaurant in the nearby town.
137. getting to see one of my lifegroup girls recognized at a basketball game. Go Tessa!
138. helping lead worship Sunday morning with my good old guitar, Sugar.
139. sunshine.
140. my nephew, Jonathan, who turned 20 this weekend. Wow, do I feel old. But so proud of him.
141. the sound of Noel learning to read.
142. my crockpot.
143. a day off of school for the kids to just hang out, relax, and catch up (aka: destroy the house!)
144. memories that make me laugh, even years later.
145. the relevancy of the Bible, even after all of these years.
146. every healthy day.
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Today I am thankful for. . .
120. getting to celebrate my grandmother's 89th birthday with dinner. Then she joined the piano player at the bar and sang "The Very Thought of You" while my grandfather blew her kisses. These are the moments.
121. a Sunday morning where I had zero responsibilities.
122. the privilege we have been given to pray.
123. This beautiful mug Jenni got me for Christmas. Perfect for my morning coffee.
124. I blinked and my baby is a young lady. Gulp. She is loving her gymnastics class.
125. Watching Noel enjoy his gymnastics class as well. He says, "I like to climb, and I like bananas. I'm kind of a monkey."
126. a little bit of sunshine to get us outside for a bit this afternoon. It's still chilly, but the hope of spring is coming.
127. Caffeine. Free. Diet. Coke. I think that no matter what my healthy eating plans look like, my nights are better with one of these.
128. the season of Lent. Our church doesn't celebrate Lent, but I have tried for several years to honor it myself. I was talking to David about what I am giving up, and Noel had lots of questions about it. He thought about it all afternoon, and decided he is giving up sleeping on the top bunk for Lent. I know that sounds silly, but for him that is a big deal. It is awesome to see him starting to figure out that our lives are going to look different if we truly live out God's call.
What are you thankful for?
120. getting to celebrate my grandmother's 89th birthday with dinner. Then she joined the piano player at the bar and sang "The Very Thought of You" while my grandfather blew her kisses. These are the moments.
121. a Sunday morning where I had zero responsibilities.
122. the privilege we have been given to pray.
123. This beautiful mug Jenni got me for Christmas. Perfect for my morning coffee.
124. I blinked and my baby is a young lady. Gulp. She is loving her gymnastics class.
125. Watching Noel enjoy his gymnastics class as well. He says, "I like to climb, and I like bananas. I'm kind of a monkey."
127. Caffeine. Free. Diet. Coke. I think that no matter what my healthy eating plans look like, my nights are better with one of these.
128. the season of Lent. Our church doesn't celebrate Lent, but I have tried for several years to honor it myself. I was talking to David about what I am giving up, and Noel had lots of questions about it. He thought about it all afternoon, and decided he is giving up sleeping on the top bunk for Lent. I know that sounds silly, but for him that is a big deal. It is awesome to see him starting to figure out that our lives are going to look different if we truly live out God's call.
What are you thankful for?
Saturday, February 09, 2013
It's Picture Time!
We bought a camera! I'm so excited that I can take pictures again.
So. . .here are my thanks--in pictures:
115. Saturday morning waffles
116. Flowers from David
117. I'm thankful that I get to wake up next to this face every morning.
118. Puzzles
119. Smiles
120. Blue Blankie, Elise's long-time friend. Of all of the pink, yellow, flowered blankets people gave her when she was born, she latched onto one of Noel's old ones, and hasn't let go. It even says "Thank Heavens for Little Boys" on it.
What are you thankful for?
So. . .here are my thanks--in pictures:
117. I'm thankful that I get to wake up next to this face every morning.
What are you thankful for?
Thursday, February 07, 2013
103. I am thankful for my friend Cara, who graciously watches Noel and Elise when I have a meeting/event/etc.
104. I am thankful that both of my kids are funny.
105. I am thankful for little reminders that help me keep perspective before I get all bent out of shape about something that doesn't really matter.
106. I am thankful for homemade banana bread. There. I said it. And I am also thankful that I decided to put dates in my last batch. Quite tasty!
107. I am thankful for sunshine!!
108. I am thankful for high school students who volunteer to take a night to serve.
109. I am thankful for the chance to serve behind the scenes with Kokomo Urban Outreach. To see all of the different ways they help our community is overwhelming!
110. I am incredibly thankful for my mom, who turns 70 this week! She is so loving, kind, and generous. I wish there were more people like her on this planet.
111. I am thankful for the hope that spring is around the corner.
112. I am thankful for warm blankets.
113. I am thankful for the card my husband left for me this morning, celebrating our 8 1/2 years together.
114. I am thankful that I am alive and healthy, and that I have this day to make a difference.
104. I am thankful that both of my kids are funny.
105. I am thankful for little reminders that help me keep perspective before I get all bent out of shape about something that doesn't really matter.
106. I am thankful for homemade banana bread. There. I said it. And I am also thankful that I decided to put dates in my last batch. Quite tasty!
107. I am thankful for sunshine!!
108. I am thankful for high school students who volunteer to take a night to serve.
109. I am thankful for the chance to serve behind the scenes with Kokomo Urban Outreach. To see all of the different ways they help our community is overwhelming!
110. I am incredibly thankful for my mom, who turns 70 this week! She is so loving, kind, and generous. I wish there were more people like her on this planet.
111. I am thankful for the hope that spring is around the corner.
112. I am thankful for warm blankets.
113. I am thankful for the card my husband left for me this morning, celebrating our 8 1/2 years together.
114. I am thankful that I am alive and healthy, and that I have this day to make a difference.
Sunday, February 03, 2013
94. Noel had the day off of school on Friday because of Parent/Teacher Conferences. I am thankful that he gets to go to half-day kindergarten and be challenged and taught by a very good, yet challenging teacher.
95. We took the extra day off to go play in Indianapolis, trying out an indoor playground, eating at Steak 'n Shake, visiting friends, and spending some Christmas money. Not only did I love my kids on Friday, I genuinely LIKED hanging out with them.
96. I finished a book my friend Cara gave me. I love reading a book that someone has recommended.
97. Sunday I had the privilege of playing in the worship band for the youth service. Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.
98. Held a sweet baby tonight at the Super Bowl party. Layla Mae, I could just eat you up, even if you do spit up all over me!
99. I tried out a new chili recipe and it was really good. Secret ingredient? Chickpeas. Hmmmmm.
100. I wish everyone could see Elise play UNO and just thump everyone. She jumps up and does this victory dance that would impress Beyonce. I'm sure she gets all of that from her dad. :)
101. Most Sundays we take a few of my Bridges students to church with us and then out for fast food. To be honest, I'm not sure exactly why they want to come. They don't seem super into church, and I know they love sleeping in, but I am taking every opportunity to be with them. I am thankful for the chance to show them God's love in a way that might stick with them.
102. Saturday was just an overall rough day for me. Nothing big, just a lot of little things that led to me having a really nasty attitude by the end of the day. I am thankful that every day is a new day.
Spend some time giving thanks today! What are you thankful for?
Thursday, January 31, 2013
I am thankful for. . .
85. a new friendship I did not expect.
86. a warm, dry house.
87. playing beauty shop with Elise.
88. listening to a funny book on cd with the kids in the car.
89. a day off of school for Noel tomorrow.
90. my guitar.
91. a mother-in-law who still gives us food from her garden in the form of frozen green beans, applesauce, and peaches.
92. being convicted while reading the book of Hosea this week.
93. quiet moments at my house.
What are you thankful for?
85. a new friendship I did not expect.
86. a warm, dry house.
87. playing beauty shop with Elise.
88. listening to a funny book on cd with the kids in the car.
89. a day off of school for Noel tomorrow.
90. my guitar.
91. a mother-in-law who still gives us food from her garden in the form of frozen green beans, applesauce, and peaches.
92. being convicted while reading the book of Hosea this week.
93. quiet moments at my house.
What are you thankful for?
Monday, January 28, 2013
Why, hello, Internet! Would you like to stick around at my house? You've been kind of a rascal these past few months, making it hard to keep a blog! No matter. I can still share my thanks, even a few days later
Thursday's Thanks. . .
70. hearing Arianna sing "How He Loves" at Bridges while Zo and I cried like babies. Love that girl.
71. getting to share a little bit of wisdom with a high school student who is really struggling with making good choices. (It's so much harder when you haven't seen any adults around you make good ones.)
72. playing Bingo with my family, even if it does end in tears for at least one child if they don't win :)
It's Friday, Friday!
73. I'm thankful for have a group of ladies I meet on most Fridays who hang out with me while our kids destroy one of our houses. Reminds me that I'm not the only one going through some of these crazy motherhood struggles.
74. Thankful for the DVR.
75. I'm thankful for my friend Robyn and my mom who graciously agreed to take our kids for the whole day on Saturday so we could take a group of student and parents skiing!
It's Saturday. . .let's ski!
76. We took 28 people down to Perfect North Slopes in southern Indiana on Saturday. The weather was perfect, a good time was had by all, and nobody got hurt!!
77. Spending the day with David skiing was so much fun! We had such a good time hanging out and also reminiscing about all of the past ski trips we have had. Lots of great memories.
78. We are thankful that the First Church of God/Bridges Outreach group let us tag along so we could use their group discount! Much appreciation!
Sunday = It's the day after skiing, and my calves are burning!
I am thankful for. . .
79. the egg sandwich at Cracker Barrel. It never disappoints.Cracker Barrel is the one restaurant where I always get the same thing every time.
80. hitting double digits on my weight-loss/eating healthy adventure. Baby steps. . .baby steps. . .
81. fleece sheets. Does anyone else have these? Not flannel, but fleece! I guarantee you won't want to get out of bed in the morning.
Happy Monday!
82. I am thankful for a day to catch up on laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping, etc.
83. I am thankful for receiving a letter in the mail from our Compassion child, Froilan.
84. I am thankful for a reminder at church yesterday that every day we can choose to live kindly or not. I pray that every day I choose kindness. Every. Day.
What are you thankful for?
Thursday's Thanks. . .
70. hearing Arianna sing "How He Loves" at Bridges while Zo and I cried like babies. Love that girl.
71. getting to share a little bit of wisdom with a high school student who is really struggling with making good choices. (It's so much harder when you haven't seen any adults around you make good ones.)
72. playing Bingo with my family, even if it does end in tears for at least one child if they don't win :)
It's Friday, Friday!
73. I'm thankful for have a group of ladies I meet on most Fridays who hang out with me while our kids destroy one of our houses. Reminds me that I'm not the only one going through some of these crazy motherhood struggles.
74. Thankful for the DVR.
75. I'm thankful for my friend Robyn and my mom who graciously agreed to take our kids for the whole day on Saturday so we could take a group of student and parents skiing!
It's Saturday. . .let's ski!
76. We took 28 people down to Perfect North Slopes in southern Indiana on Saturday. The weather was perfect, a good time was had by all, and nobody got hurt!!
77. Spending the day with David skiing was so much fun! We had such a good time hanging out and also reminiscing about all of the past ski trips we have had. Lots of great memories.
78. We are thankful that the First Church of God/Bridges Outreach group let us tag along so we could use their group discount! Much appreciation!
Sunday = It's the day after skiing, and my calves are burning!
I am thankful for. . .
79. the egg sandwich at Cracker Barrel. It never disappoints.Cracker Barrel is the one restaurant where I always get the same thing every time.
80. hitting double digits on my weight-loss/eating healthy adventure. Baby steps. . .baby steps. . .
81. fleece sheets. Does anyone else have these? Not flannel, but fleece! I guarantee you won't want to get out of bed in the morning.
Happy Monday!
82. I am thankful for a day to catch up on laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping, etc.
83. I am thankful for receiving a letter in the mail from our Compassion child, Froilan.
84. I am thankful for a reminder at church yesterday that every day we can choose to live kindly or not. I pray that every day I choose kindness. Every. Day.
What are you thankful for?
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Last week was rough. Lots of emotions and lots of praying. Tears and comforting. It felt like everywhere I turned last week was incredible sadness.
And this week has been . . . well. . .strange. Sometimes I think that after a rollercoaster ride of a week, sometimes the little things seem even more discouraging.
We have been struggling with Noel and Elise not listening. And I know in the grand scheme of things it will all work out, it can be extremely frustrating in the moment.
A girl dropped out of the Crossing.
Another girl who I've been bringing to church informed me that her mom won't let her come with me to church anymore.
And then Noel tells us last night that one of his best buddies at school told him he didn't want to be friends with him anymore.
Life is messy and hard and frustrating and sad and confusing.
But I REFUSE to focus solely on that. God has given us SOOOO much, and although it is a little harder to see the blessings, we are called to give thanks. At all times.
And so, I am thankful.
64. thankful for getting to see a girl from my lifegroup kick butt in a swim meet last night. Go Aly!!
65. thankful for the privilege of praying with my children at night, hopefully modeling that we can talk to God about anything, and that we should seek Him at all times.
66. thankful that I have a loyal God who loves me every minute of every day.
67. thankful that my son wants to talk to David and me when he is hurting.
68. thankful for sore muscles. It means I'm pushing myself.
69. thankful for the fact that every day is a new day. Yesterday is gone. Clean slate. Full of opportunity.
What are you thankful for?
And this week has been . . . well. . .strange. Sometimes I think that after a rollercoaster ride of a week, sometimes the little things seem even more discouraging.
We have been struggling with Noel and Elise not listening. And I know in the grand scheme of things it will all work out, it can be extremely frustrating in the moment.
A girl dropped out of the Crossing.
Another girl who I've been bringing to church informed me that her mom won't let her come with me to church anymore.
And then Noel tells us last night that one of his best buddies at school told him he didn't want to be friends with him anymore.
Life is messy and hard and frustrating and sad and confusing.
But I REFUSE to focus solely on that. God has given us SOOOO much, and although it is a little harder to see the blessings, we are called to give thanks. At all times.
And so, I am thankful.
64. thankful for getting to see a girl from my lifegroup kick butt in a swim meet last night. Go Aly!!
65. thankful for the privilege of praying with my children at night, hopefully modeling that we can talk to God about anything, and that we should seek Him at all times.
66. thankful that I have a loyal God who loves me every minute of every day.
67. thankful that my son wants to talk to David and me when he is hurting.
68. thankful for sore muscles. It means I'm pushing myself.
69. thankful for the fact that every day is a new day. Yesterday is gone. Clean slate. Full of opportunity.
What are you thankful for?
Monday, January 21, 2013
I am thankful for
55. all of the prayers that have been said for Nadine's family and for all of us who are struggling with her loss.
56. a family day on Saturday with David and the kids. Bowling + a 6-year old + a 3-year old = best entertainment money can buy.
57. time with my brother and his family.
58. homemade pizza.
59. reminder in the sermon that God needs to be first. Always first.
60. People in history who stood up for injustice. May we continue to do the same. When I think of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the civil rights movement, I can't help but pray that we can start this same kind of movement to end slavery all over the world.
61. a warm house to be in on cold, cold days.
62. quiet Sunday afternoons.
63. the many people who invest into my children's lives: church, friends, family.
What are you thankful for?
55. all of the prayers that have been said for Nadine's family and for all of us who are struggling with her loss.
56. a family day on Saturday with David and the kids. Bowling + a 6-year old + a 3-year old = best entertainment money can buy.
57. time with my brother and his family.
58. homemade pizza.
59. reminder in the sermon that God needs to be first. Always first.
60. People in history who stood up for injustice. May we continue to do the same. When I think of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the civil rights movement, I can't help but pray that we can start this same kind of movement to end slavery all over the world.
61. a warm house to be in on cold, cold days.
62. quiet Sunday afternoons.
63. the many people who invest into my children's lives: church, friends, family.
What are you thankful for?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)