Looking for a good novel anyone???

If you're looking for a good novel to read, I'd recommend this book!  It is the first book in a series of three and it is currently what I'm reading at the moment.  This book has really pulled me in and I'm almost half way through it at the moment.  It especially interests me because the story takes place on The 1000 Islands, which is right next door to where I live!  It is a very stunning place and so far, so is this book.  If anyone else decides to read this series in the near future let me know how you like it, I'd love to have a chat about it!  Reading is a favorite past time of mine and getting lost in a good novel works wonders at keeping the stress at bay.   =)

How Do You View "The Church"?

At church this past Sunday, our pastor preached a really profound message.  So much so, in my opinion, that I am going to share it on my blog.  I've put a link to a video of this sermon at the end of this post and I pray that you will take the time to watch and listen to the message.  You will notice that the video is over 2 hours long because it includes worship (which was also amazing by the way), but if you want to skip directly to the message just go to appx. the 165 minute marker and watch from there.  Take my word, it is well worth your time - I promise!

If you've ever had a bad experience with church, please watch this video.  If you've ever thought or spoken negatively about church in the general sense, please watch this video.  If you've ever criticized the church in any form or fashion, please watch this video.  If you've ever believed that the church has become just another institution or building and that it is far from God's plan, then PLEASE watch this video!  If you've ever believed the thought that church isn't about "four walls" or that God is doing a "new thing" which means church is no longer part of His plan, then PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE watch this video!!!  Okay, I think that about covers all of us!

I hope that those of you who take the time to watch this message will be blessed and challenged by the truth of God's Word.  I know I was.

http://www.newlifenny.com/gather/1325-2/

More Great Music

Thanks to K-LOVE I heard some more great music that I really love. This guy's name is Shawn McDonald and you should really check out some more of his stuff on YouTube. His personal testimony is awesome as well! This song is called "Rise". Hope you love it too!

Unspoken Prayers...

Today I want to share part of my daily devotional with you, as it really resonated with me and touched my heart.  I think all of us can relate to this unknown soldiers "prayer".  God seems to do things different than how we would choose to do them, and often times it is hard to understand Him.  The below prayer reminds us that not only does He know whats best for us, but since He has the big picture in mind with what is eternally best for us, we would be wise to trust Him in ALL things.  Hope this blesses you too!


I asked for strength that I might achieve;
I was made weak that I might learn to humbly obey.
I asked for health that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.
I asked for riches that I might be happy;
I was given poverty that I might be wise.
I asked for power that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things that I might enjoy life;
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I had asked for;
but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite of myself my unspoken prayers were answered;
I am, among all men, most richley blessed.

- An Unknown Confederate Soldier

Mopping & Memories

I just finished mopping the floors, something I don't do nearly as often as I probably should by the way!  It's funny how I always dread doing it, but as soon as I get started and crank up some South African jazz music, I go into a zone and I ALWAYS think of the same thing, a memory that never leaves me whenever I'm mopping...  I think back to a friend of mine from Zimbabwe, who I met in South Africa, Charity.  She is my age and we went to Bible School together for 2 years and were roommates for one of those years.  Charity changed my life in many ways....  Through her I began to understand the culture and the mindsets of the people there.  She taught me so much just by being herself and I never realized just how much she did this until just now, as I'm writing this!

The memory I always recall when I'm mopping happened at the very beginning of Bible School.  We all had duties, or chores, and mine at that time was to mop the floors.  One day as I set out to do my duty, Charity followed me and sat by and watched me as I began to mop.  She had a huge smile on her face as she sat down to watch me and I could tell she was quite amused by me.  I asked her what was so funny and she told me that she had never in her life seen a white person - let alone an American - mop floors before and that this ought to be good!  I was stunned by her statement - how could she never have seen a white person mop floors before???  I quickly told her that the majority of Americans mop their own floors, which likewise stunned her.  Major culture difference!

Anyways, as Charity watched me work and we talked together, she couldn't help herself but to show me how to do a better, more efficient job!  Ha!  She explained to me that the only way to get the floor well cleaned was to get on my hands and knees.  Ummmm, no thanks was my first thought!  But she was right, of course, a mop just doesn't always cut it.  Thanks Charity for giving this lazy American some good advice!  That day we peeked into each others lives a little further than before.  For her, I believe a stereo-type of Americans was being broken.  For me, a deeper understanding of her and where she was coming from was taking shape.  Africa.... I have so many wonderful memories of you.  Not a day goes by that I don't think of you!

Benjamin the TWO Year Old!

It's been over a month since I last wrote a post, so it's good to be back!  It was a nice little break but I miss blogging and look forward to get back into it again.  :)

Two weeks ago on July 17th, my first born turned TWO!  I can hardly believe my sweet Benjamin is a full blown toddler now and not my little baby.  We had lots of fun celebrating his big day by going to the Thompson Park Zoo which he really enjoyed discovering the animals.  We also had some friends over for a little party with a race car track cake I made for him, and a fun time was had by all!

Benjamin continues to be his goofy and sweet self.  He loves the warm weather just like his mama and wakes up grabbing his shoes and running to the door all ready to go outside and play!  His favorite toys are his Mega Blocks and play food (he's getting into pretend play now).  He absolutely LOVES playing with water in any capacity and his favorite thing to watch on TV now is Sesame Street and Veggies Tales.  But his favortite past time is killing flies with daddy!  He has his own fly swatter and it is the cutest thing to watch him follow his daddy around the house chasing flies!  He has his daddy's skills too - seriously, he is a "mini-Steve" in so many ways!

Benjamin continues to adore his little sister - most of the time!  He needs some space away from her too though since Grace is always obsessed with her big brother and always wants to play with his toys and climb on top of him.  They are two peas in a pod though!  It is so sweet.

The summer has been good to us all (although Steve daily talks about how much he misses winter)!  The days have been sweet and pleasant.  It's been so good to enjoy and delight in the kids lately.  We're in a good groove right now with life running smoothly and it's been a welcome change to the more challenging times we experienced during the winter.  Our summer in NNY has been gorgeous, but I can't help to look forward to my favorite season of all - Autumn!  I will enjoy the rest of this summer first though.  ;)

Hectic Days

My days have been pretty hectic lately.  Ever since Grace began crawling and getting into everything, I have never been more tired!  She's even pulling herself up with the help of furniture now!  This girl is on a mission and it seems nothing will slow her down.  She's too busy to want to nap as well, instead she's rather play in her crib.  Needless to say, my hands are truly full!

I've been wanting nearly everyday to write posts for this blog, but haven't found the time or the energy to do so.  It's hard for me when I know exactly what I want to write about and every word is all written out in my head just waiting to be typed onto the computer, but yet I cannot find a moment to make it happen.  It's not that I feel pressure from anyone to stay on top of my blog with lots of new posts all the time, it's me.  I really do enjoy writing in here.  It's been such a great outlet for me and I love it.

But with the busyiness of my life right now, I don't think I'll be able to write on here as much as I'd like.   Atleast for a little while.  I'll do what I can of course, but I just want to let you know my posts might not be as frequent as they have been.  See ya soon!  (I hope)!

Times

Yet another song I've just heard and have fallen in love with. The song is "Times" from Tenth Avenue North. Love the lyrics. Hope you enjoy!

This is Beautiful...

YOU ARE MY ‘I LOVE YOU’

I am your parent; you are my child. I am your quiet place; you are my wild.
I am your calm face; you are my giggle. I am your wait; you are my wiggle.
I am your carriage ride; you are my king. I am your push; you are my swing.
...I am your audience; you are my clown. I am your London Bridge; you are my falling down.
I am your carrot sticks; you are my licorice. I am your dandelion; you are my first wish.
I am your water wings; you are my deep. I am your open arms; you are my running leap.
I am your way home; you are my new path. I am your dry towel; you are my wet bath.
I am your dinner; you are my chocolate cake. I am your bedtime; you are my wide awake.
I am your finish line; you are my race. I am your praying hands; you are my saying grace.
I am your favorite book; you are my new lines. I am your night-light; you are my starshine.
I am your lullaby; you are my peekaboo. I am your good-night kiss; you are my I love you.

by Maryann Cusimano Love and Satomi Ichikawa

Gungor - Beautiful Things

I heard this song for the first time yesterday on the radio and I find it absolutely beautiful. I love the instruments used and the deep emotion it conveys. A masterpiece in my opinion!

Growing Like Weeds

The kids are growing like weeds, so I figured you'd all enjoy some more pictures of my little munchkins!  Benjamin is growing into the "Big Brother" role already, even at his very young age.  Last week at church the nursery workers told us that he was continually monitoring Grace and the other babies, letting them know if one of the babies was wandering off or needed some attention!  I was pleased to hear this, but not too surprised as he is constantly concerned about Grace and what she's doing all day long.  He's very sweet.  It amazes me how he pays attention to every little detail that transpires around the house - I mean nothing gets past this kid!  He's absorbing everything and with his little eyes almost always glued to me, it challenges me in a positive way, to keep a good attitude and a happy face.  If he hears me sigh or sees me roll my eyes, he's right there learning to do the same thing.....  I have to admit though, that when he shrugs his shoulders it's pretty darn cute!   =)

Grace on the other hand is as sweet as ever!  She continues to be such a happy, pleasant baby and adores her Big Brother Benjamin.  Every morning when she wakes up and every evening when she goes to bed Benjamin is right there giving her hugs and kisses, which in turn makes her smile from ear to ear.   One day I took Grace with me and we were gone most of the day while Benjamin and Steve stuck together.  When Grace and I came home, Benjamin was beside himself - he went crazy over Grace!  He kept talking and waving to her, smiling and kissing her with such enthusiasm.  It was a super sweet moment to see just how much he missed her, as that had been the longest they had ever been apart.

Benjamin will turn 2 years old next month and Grace will be 7 months old in a couple of days.  I was hoping Grace wouldn't hit certain milestones like crawling and walking as early as Benjamin did, but I don't think I'm going to get my wish!  She is almost crawling, which means she is advancing even quicker than Benjamin, but I guess she just wants to keep up with her big brother!  Gracie, the active little girl that she is: is sitting on her own, wiggling all over the floor, scooching both backwards and forwards while on her tummy, up on all fours and lunging forward, and also puts herself up to a sitting position from being on her tummy - ALL ON HER OWN!  I honestly can't believe it.  Next on my "To-Do List" is to get my house baby proofed for crawling again!

All three of us are enjoying our daily walks in the stroller together, sometimes twice a day.  We are loving the warm weather and just can't stop soaking up the beautiful outdoors!  It's been just great.  I'm enjoying every moment with my sweet little babies.  Their innocent giggles and sloppy kisses melt my heart daily.  I do however miss Benjamin's adorable curls.......you will notice in the pictures that Benjamin now looks like a mini-Marine!  Steve was "trimming" his hair a few days ago, when the clippers broke and the only choice was to give Benjamin a major buzz cut.  I wasn't too thrilled about it, but it's just hair and it will grow back.......  However, with his new do Benjamin does look even more like Steve and that's also pretty darn cute, if I say so myself!  :)

***And by the way, I've finished the Dugger Family book already and it really was encouraging and inspiring to me.  I don't think that having 20 kids is in our future, but I really admire them and their calling, and I sure do look forward to having more kids.   :)

Wind at My Back

Have you ever gone biking on a trail you've never been on before, where the route is entirely new to you and you have no idea what to expect around each corner and bend?  You know that there will be some difficult steep hills as well as some nice, long downhills to enjoy, but you don't know when they are coming or how long each will last.  One thing you do know however is that there will be both.  Ups and downs.  There will be times when it seems like you are going up hill FOREVER and you wonder when will it ever end!  And as you're in the middle of biking up this steep, challenging hill the wind starts to blow against you and you have to give it all you've got with every single push of the pedal.  And with each breath you take you wonder if you're going to make it.  The weariness is growing thick.  The exhaustion is setting in.  There's so much resistance - the hill, the wind - you're wondering how much more can you take!  You know in your mind that it's eventually going to end and that soon the wind will be at your back instead of in your face, but when?  Sooner than later would be nice, right?!

Well, the wind is at my back - finally!  It took much longer than I would have liked, but it has happened (dare I say it).  And it feels so good to finally be cruising down hill again - or at least on some flat terrain.  :)    Now don't get me wrong or anything, being a SAHM is my dream come true and I really love it, but I had a really rough patch recently.  It mostly was because the kids, as well as Steve and I, were non-stop sick with colds and flus and such.  When the days turned into weeks and then the weeks turned into months, I didn't know how much longer I could keep going.  I was weary.  Beyond weary actually.  I can't even think of the word to accurately describe where I was at, but it was hard. 

In retrospect, I can really appreciate that difficult time.  It brought me so much closer to the Lord - honestly.  I was forced to lean into Him.  There were many matters of my heart that came to the surface during that time too and if I hadn't gone to such a deep, difficult place I don't believe those matters would have arose.  I think God often works that way in our lives and I am so grateful for it (although at the time I would have given anything to make that difficult time end). 

So, here I am now.  Coasting on my bike with the wind at my back!  Enjoying every moment with my sweet kids again.  Not to say that everything's easy breezy all the time, ha!  Hardly!  Although my circumstances are much better than they were - our family is no longer constantly sick and I am no longer sleep deprived - it does not mean that my everyday life is easy and perfect.  But I am different now, not because of anything I have done, but because of God and the fact that He loves me and met with me when I desperately needed Him.

Reading Corner

I picked up this book at a yard sale last weekend and started reading it today.  I cannot put it down!  I've always loved the Duggar family and reading their book just makes me love them even more.  They are such a lovely family with a beautiful story to tell.  I imagine after reading this book, their first one, I will want to read their second book as well which just came out.  I don't know how they do it but I think they are simply amazing!

Farewell Oprah

Saying good-bye to the "Queen" of television on Wednesday was a sad day for me.  Yes, I cried.  Save your laughing and judging to those of you who just rolled your eyes as you read that first sentences!  Surely you can understand the influence she has had in my life just as she does in so many others.  I am one of the millions out there who litereally grew up with her.  Watching her nearly everyday after school beginning at a very young age (7 years old I think).  She was always a constant in my life even when I lived abroad in Europe and South Africa.  When homesick numerous times for the good ol' US of A, I always felt a little bit better after watching an Oprah show. 

Obviously she is a remarkable woman who has made this world a better and kinder place in my opinion.  I don't agree with her on everything....  We are quite opposite in our political views and her Universalism mindset really gets under my skin!  But I love her and I will miss tuning in to her show everyday.  I was so relieved on Thursday afternoon when I turned on the television at 4pm to watch her show (a habit that would be very hard to break), not knowing what would be on in it's place and when a repeat of The Oprah Winfrey Show came on, I let out a huge sigh of relief!  Phew - I can still get my Oprah fix!  Hallelujah!  I think I'm gonna be okay.   :)

Tip of the Day

I know I'm offering unsolicited advice here, but it is my blog!  And in my opinion this tip is worth sharing so here it is:  Blue Shop Towels.  These towels are simply AMAZING!  If you are sick and tired of your kitchen sink rag always smelling so bad and in turn giving your kitchen a nasty, stinky smell then you have got to try these.  It's like a paper towel on steroids!  These towels do it all and cost only a couple of bucks, which in turn will last you a couple of months.  Just use one sheet all day long and you can keep your kitchen clean and smelling good!

They are so strong and durable that I reuse it over and over and over again all day and it never rips or nothing.  It's been pretty awesome and I will never go back to using stinky kitchen rags that need to be washed and dried in the laundry (and still smell afterwards), when I can use my handy dandy blue shop towels instead! 

Benjamin's Music Pick

This song is currently Benjamin's favorite. He wants us to play it over and over again on YouTube! His absolutely favorite part is every time the chorus begins - that's when he goes wild. He's got some good taste in music if you ask me! =)

God Knows Best!

Perhaps some of you remember that Steve and I came very, very close to buying our first house last summer.  In the end it didn't work out, which is a long story in itself ... we decided to back out at the time because there were too many question marks and not enough peace.

House hunting was such an emotional process (heightened by the pregnancy hormones) and it left me feeling very drained.  I desperately wanted to buy a house and get settled before Grace was born.  My instinct to nest was on level high!  When it became apparent that buying a house wasn't going to happen at that time, I was extremely sad & disappointed.  Desperate to know why it didn't work out for me to get the desire of my
heart - a house for my family to grow up in - I asked God, "Why"?  Not getting a straight answer, Steve and I both agreed that it just wasn't the right timing and that it wasn't the right house.

Well, God did in fact answer us and it happened last week when Steve was told by a friend that the house we almost bought is now in foreclosure, has a flooded basement and received very significant damage to the outside of the house due to a large tree branch falling on the roof during the winter storms.  Praise God we were spared from owning that home and dealing with all those problems!  After hearing this news from Steve I once again was so amazed by the Lord's protection in our lives.

It's so encouraging and faith-building to know we have a God that goes before us.  One who knows all things - past, present, and future.  A Father who wants the best for us and desires to protect us from unforseen circumstances.  Unfortunately, we are not always going to get an answer to our "why?" questions.  But for me, remembering this experience will help me trust that God knows what's best for me and will help me get through the times that I don't get an answer from Him.  He sees what I cannot see.  He is a good and loving God, who gives His children good gifts.  And I believe that whatever answers we don't receive here in this life, we will surely receive in Heaven!


Side Note:

It's funny how God works, but I had just finished writing this post when I went to read my devotions for the day and was struck with amazement when I realized that my post and my devotion were on the same subject!  Very cool when that stuff happens!  Here is an excerpt from my devotions:

"God may answer your prayer with a resounding yes..... God may answer your prayer with a no.  But a no doesn't mean he doesn't care.  If your toddler asks if he can play in the street, you of course say no.  And you say no because you care, not because you don't.  The same goes for our heavenly Father.  He has a reason for His answer .....

God may answer your prayer with a "Wait".  God has a perfect plan and timing for events in our lives and we must be patient.  That's difficult when the days turn into months .... but we must never doubt God.  He will respond when the time is right.  God wants us to have an intimate relationship with Him; His Spirit within guides us through each step, even when the days are difficult."

-Linda Taylor
from Santuary: a devotional Bible for Women

Grace Willow

Today marks my little Gracie turning six months old.  She is the sweetest, most scrumptious little girl and I cannot fathom my life without her!  As I'm writing this tears come easily to my eyes as I think of just how much I love and adore her.  Her life not only makes my world a brighter, happier place but her presence also helps those she's around to smile bigger and laugh deeper.  Her life is very special and it truly is my honor and joy to be her mommy!

When I was pregnant with Grace, Steve and I were considering different names for her, trying to pick just the right one.  We always liked Grace and from the beginning that name had been one of our favorites.  However we had only thought of it as a middle name.  Until one day, during an afternoon nap together, Steve and I stumbled onto the idea of making our daughters first name Grace.  It just sort of clicked into place.  It was perfect for her!

During the process of picking her name I came across the name Willow and loved it immediately.  Willow was actually one of the names we had considered as a first name, as well as Alicia, Eliana and Isabella.  But after we had decided on the name Grace it was obvious to me that her middle name would then be Willow.  Why?  Well, not just because I liked the name, it's meaning (which is "freedom") and it's uniqueness.  It's because of a deeper reason.

During my pregnancy with Grace, I was reading an urgent letter one day from James Robison. In it, he appealed to readers about how our freedoms were in jeopardy in these days and the days ahead.  It was a compelling letter that emphasized how true freedom lies in Jesus Christ, our Savior, and cannot be found in our government or anywhere else.  While reading the letter, the Holy Spirit spoke to me regarding the life that was growing inside of me.  He spoke to me of how our daughter would have a special calling on her life to share with the world what true freedom is and where it comes from.  Her life would be an example to those around her of what abundunt life is really like because her relationship with Jesus would be so pure that she would walk in total freedom -- freedom that can only be found in one true source - Christ Jesus!

What a moment that was for me!  I received this promise from above with tears flowing over my cheeks, and then, suddenly, it came to me. Willow.  The meaning of the name Willow is freedom.  Wow.  It was then that I knew this little girl was to have the name Willow.  And so that is the story of how Grace Willow came to be named.

If a Child...

I came across this today and thought it was brilliant!  I realize daily the magnitude of the responsibility we have as parents to train up our children and love them in the same way God does so with us.  It literally blows my mind to think of the profound impact we as parents have on our children! Thank goodness we have a perfect Father in heaven as an example to us to follow!

 

If a child lives with criticism,
He learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility,
He learns to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule,
He learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame,
He learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with tolerance,
He learns to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement,
He learns confidence.
If a child lives with praise,
He learns to appreciate.
If a child lives with fairness,
He learns justice.
If a child lives with security,
He learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval,
He learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship,
He learns to find love in the world.

(A sermon called The Divine Family, author unknown.)

To The Man I Love

From the moment we met, 3 years ago, it seems like the fast-forward button has been pushed and is still going!  We dove head first into life together and it seems to just get crazier and go by faster with each passing day.   I never knew so much could happen in such a short amount of time!  Truly! 

Lately, I find myself thinking back to our "earlier years."  Life was so much easier, less demanding and more carefree.  There was so much more "us" time to savor.  Looking back, I'm so thankful we daily relished in each other's company.  It was rare that we didn't spend every waking moment with each other. No doubt, there were people who thought we were unbalanced because of it.  But deep down, we both knew we were on the fast track to parenthood (the wonderful blessing and gift that it is) and that our quiet and relaxing days would quickly disappear altogether!

Honey, you are the man I love.  I adore you just as much, actually even more, than I did back then.  I  know it might not always seems that way, especially lately .....  No doubt, when you look in my eyes now, all you see is exhaustion, frustration and temporary insanity!  =)  Instead of the big, doe eyes you fell in love with you find big, dark bags under tired eyes!  I'm no longer your always "cool as a cucumber" wife, but have morphed into your "hot as a pepper" wife!

But babe, you are my teammate, on the same team, and even though I've seemed to forgotten that lately, I want you to know that I need you and appreciate you.  And I always will.  You are the man I love.  This is to you MB. 

HB

Easter in Fort Mill

Apologies for not writing in the blog for over a week, but we were on vacation! Spending a week with Steve's family in Fort Mill, SC made for a very special Easter. From start to finish the trip was so enjoyable! Steve and I were a little nervous about flying with two babies, but both kids put us to shame for even worrying about it! They did so great on both flights and we also were really blessed to sit next to some really nice people who loved kids too.

With all of Steve's family now living in Fort Mill (except for Dan & his family), it made for a packed trip. We wished it didn't go by so quickly!  It would have been nice to spend some more time with everyone, but we're so thankful for the time we did have together.  It was the first time that all of them met Gracie, except for Steve's mom Ercy.  I enjoyed having all the extra arms helping to hold Grace during our stay because she needed some extra TLC as her first two bottom teeth are almost through! 

Benjamin had a BLAST!  He was in his element from the very beginning, playing with his cousins and soaking up the sunshine & fresh air all day long!  He was in his glory playing with Ercy's dog Zoey, playing in the kiddie pool, running in the sprinkler, hanging out with his cousins, going on an Easter egg hunt and the list goes on and on.

The food while we were there was unbelievable! Steve's grandma, Abuela Irma, made us milanesas, pizza de cebolla, pollito asado and empanadas; Ercy made a ham dinner; Natalie made her famous red sauce; and Horace made an incredible Argentine BBQ.  Steve and I were afraid to get on a scale when we got home!

It was an excellent and memorable trip.

A Deeper Appreciation

One very positive thing about living by Fort Drum, NY is how it has
given me a deeper appreciation for our military and their families.
Prior to moving here, my knowledge of all the sacrifices our military
and their families make was very little.  I have an older cousin who
serves in the military.  He now serves as a drill sergeant for the Air
Force in Texas, but for many years he served in multiple deployments.
Still, I never quite understood all that he and his family sacrificed
during those years until now.  It is incredible!

I'd say over half of the moms in my MOPS groups are military wives and
most of them have deployed husbands right now.  It wasn't until joining
this group that I saw just how difficult and challenging it is for these
families.  My heart breaks with theirs when I see the pain in their eyes
because they had to say goodbye to their husband that week, and they
have 2 or 3 children at home to take care of all on their own for the
next year until their husband returns.  I cannot imagine the stress
these families endure.  The spouses, the children, the parents and
siblings of the deployed, and the soldiers themselves of course, all pay
a huge price.  And that sacrifice is for you and for me!  No matter what
your political views are, it doesn't matter!  These wonderful and brave
Americans are not just putting their lives on the line for their
country, but they and their families are doing so for us and our pursuit
to live the American dream.  Without them this wouldn't be possible.

Sometimes I am so overwhelmed with my own circumstances of not having
any family around and being so far away from all of them.  I'm still
adjusting to a new town, trying to build new relationships -- plus the
everyday stressers of being a SAHM can keep my focus on myself and my
problems.  But when I think about the many military families who also
share these same circumstances, PLUS they have a husband who is deployed
for long stretches of time on top of everything else, I immediately
count my blessings and stop my complaining! 

Before moving here, it was my ignorance that kept me from appreciating
and understanding all that our military does.  Now that I know this, I
must do better.  I must reach out and lend a helping hand.  It's no
longer good enough for me to simply pray for them and their families.
Even though my resources are limited, I feel compelled to help in any
way I can.  To let these families know that they are not alone and that
they are appreciated.  It will be easy for me to get involved since I
know military families, but if you don't know how to get involved and
help these wonderful families then visit this website for more info:

  http://www.whitehouse.gov/joiningforces/

A Poem

I stumbled upon this poem and thought it was sweet.  Can any other mothers out there relate to it as well???

What Did I Do Today

Author - Unknown

Today I left some dishes dirty,
The bed got made around 3:30.
The diapers soaked a little longer,
The odor grew a little stronger.
The crumbs I spilled the day before
Are staring at me from the floor.
The fingerprints there on the wall
Will likely be there still next fall.
The dirty streaks on those windowpanes
Will still be there next time it rains.
Shame on you, you sit and say,
Just what did you do today?

I held a baby till she slept,
I held a toddler while he wept.
I played a game of hide and seek,
I squeezed a toy so it would squeak.
I pulled a wagon, sang a song,
Taught a child right from wrong.
What did I do this whole day through?
Not much that shows, I guess that's true.
Unless you think that what I've done,
Might be important to someone
With deep green eyes and soft brown hair,
If that is true... I've done my share.

10 Things I Love About My Family

These are in no specific order.  =)


1.  The way Benjamin pushes the tip of his nose with his finger when he says "Shhhhhh".


2.  How Grace blows rasberries all day long and Benjamin giggles at her.

 
3.  The way my husband smells like his Argentinean cologne all day long.


4.  How the kids smell like there daddy's Argentinean cologne after he holds them.


5.  That instead of Benjamin needing to go to sleep with a special blanket or stuffed animal, he needs his favorite number 6 from his numbers puzzle.


6.  How Benajmin & Grace take eachothers pacifiers out of eachother mouths all day long.


7.  The way Steve makes the whole neighborhood smell insane with the BBQ he's grilling up on the deck.


8.   How Grace giggles all the time because she's ticklish everywhere.


9.  The way Benjamin likes to slow dance to worship music and has recently tried to sing along.


10.  When Steve gets his guitar out and we sing together.


I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE MY FAMILY!!!

Long Live Traditions!

Yesterday at my MOPS meeting our subject of conversation was Easter.  We were discussing at our tables what traditions we grew up with at Easter and what traditions we do now with our own families.  It was a great question and it really got me thinking.  ***Quick side note:  If you are a mother of young children and don't know what MOPS is you've got to check them out!  It is such a wonderful organization and has been a tremendous support to me - I love my MOPS group and don't know what I'd do without them!***


http://www.mops.org/


Okay, back to the topic at hand.  :)  As I was thinking about the traditions I had grown up with in my family it made me realize just how important they are in my life.  I have always known that I love traditions, even as a child it was important to me to do the same thing every year.  And instilling traditions in my own family is something I've always looked forward to and am excited about starting now!  I'm a very nostalgic person and tradition just helps feed that to me.  I find that traditions make celebrating each holiday that much more fun and the anticipation that it brings is so exciting to me.


Looking back on my Easter traditions yesterday made me realize that I have my mom to thank for it all!  She is the one who made them happen and who kept them alive throughout the years.  Even during my teenage years she continued to hide an Easter basket for me to find on Sunday morning.  And when I was in my early twenties, living far away from home in South Africa, she would always send me packages for all the different holidays - Easter, Christmas, and even Valentine's Day (another tradition she kept alive with giving chocolate hearts and other goodies).  It made me feel remembered, connected & loved.


My mom is a traditionaliast and thanks to her so am I.  She has passed this on to me and I am very grateful!  I hope I will do as good as a job as she did as I pass down traditions to my children.  Thanks Mom!

Spring is Here.....FINALLY!

I cannot describe how wonderful it feels to have all the windows open right now.  The fresh breeze is gently blowing through the house along with the pretty chirps from all the birdies outside.  I'm loving it!  It's amazing how quickly the weather changed for us here.  On Friday morning it was snowing outside my window but by Saturday it was 6o degrees and sunny!  It was a perfect spring weekend and I am thrilled that it has finally arrived. 

Unfortunately, not only did springtime arrive over night but so did those pesky springtime allergies.  I'm just so thankful I can take allergy medicine this year, because for the last two years I've been pregnant and haven't had that luxury.  Anyway, I got to put my new double stroller to use for the first time this weekend and it was so much fun!  Our family of four walked to the nearby playground at a local church and Gracie slept while Benjamin ran around and played on the slides and swing.  It was so fun to watch him play.  At first he seemed so uncertain of what to do.  I think it's been so long that he's been able to play outside that he forgot what to do!!  But in no time he was quickly running around and enjoying every second of it.

Walking has always been my favorite way to exercise and pushing 60 lbs. while I'm doing it makes for a pretty good workout!  The lady who sold it to me said she lost all her extra baby weight with this stroller, at which I said, "SOLD - I'll take it"!  I've got 25 lbs. to lose in order to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight before Benjamin and I'm planning on making that happen this summer!  But more than the physical and vain side of it all lies a deep, deep gratitude.  For many years, one of the deepest desires of my heart was to have children and be a mother.  And as I cared for many other children over the years I always yearned for the time it would finally happen for me.  So here I am, pushing my two babies in a double stroller!  It sure puts a smile on my face.  A really big smile!

Mornings Mercies

I must admit, I am one of those annoying morning people.  I can't help
it - it runs in my blood, from my dad's side!  I love mornings and I
always have (except during my teen years of course).  There's
something so refreshing and hopeful about the morning.  A brand new day.
A clean slate.  Mornings are so still and peaceful ... add a fresh cup
of perfectly brewed coffee and I'm all ready for the day.

I think it's definitely to my advantage that I enjoy mornings so much
being a mom.  It seems kids are morning people too, as they are usually
early to rise, sometimes a little too early even for me (waking up at
6am is fine with me, but go any earlier and I'm not too thrilled)!
Anyway, it wasn't until motherhood that a whole new appreciation for
mornings grabbed a hold of me.

This past month or so has been very difficult for me.  Our family has
been sick non-stop with different colds and illnesses and it feels like
we cannot catch a break.  I believe that maintaining balance in our
lives is really key to being content, but achieving balance lately has
not been possible.  I mean, being cooped up in our apartment, taking
care of the kids 24-7, it all gets to me after awhile.  Socializing with
anyone is out of the question when you've got very sick children, and who's got
the energy anyway when no one's getting any sleep.  Not to mention this
winter has been the winter that never ends!  I have literally not gone
for a walk outside for 6 months.  That is CRAZY! 

Needless to say, my patience level is quite thin right now, and I'm not the mother I wish to be on most days.  I'm so easily frustrated & frazzled, and I hate being that way.  By the end of the day I often feel like a failure to my family.  I feel guilty for being annoyed with my toddler.  And I hate myself for swearing underneath my breath when I find myself frustrated once again.

But then God gave me this scripture:

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
His mercies never cease.
Great is His faithfulness;
his mercies begin afresh each morning.
I say to myself, "The Lord is my inheritance;
therefore, I will hope in Him!"

Lamentations 3:22-24 (New Living Translation)

Oh, what a promise He gives us!  What hope it gives me to start each
morning forgiven and loved!  To know His mercies are new every single
morning is such a relief.  Now I start my mornings with a deep breath of
gratitude toward my Father.  No longer stuck in yesterday's failures, I
can start my day knowing He is not only by my side, but on my side too.
Helping and encouraging me along the way.

Real Confidence

Only recently has mainstream media started covering this story. But in
my world, it has been talked about for a couple of months now: the
impending "Government Shutdown."  Usually, it is when things directly
affect you that you are more aware of them.  This is probably the case
for many Americans in this instance (unless you're a news junkie), to
know that there is a strong possibility that there will be a partial
government shutdown this Friday.  Many people could lose their jobs,
either temporarily or permanently.  One of those people is my husband.


This is not new territory for us.  We have been down this road of
uncertainty together before when Steve, among many at his job in
Florida, was laid off a few years ago.  It seemed the timing couldn't
have been any worse, as we were 4-months pregnant with Benjamin.  But it
was during that uncertain time that I grew closer to my husband and
definitely closer to God.  And as always, God came through for us.  He
is our provider, and a very good one too!


So here we are again.  Steve's job is not as secure as we would like at
this moment, but that is life.  We do not put our trust in his job.  Our
confidence does not come from this world and it certainly doesn't come
from our government!  We trust God will take care of us, just like he
always has.  Real confidence comes from Him.


To read more about the possible government shutdown, click on this link:
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/04/06/budget-deal-elusive-congressional-leaders-face-pressure/

"Your Hands"

My absolute favorite Christian artist right now is JJ Heller.  This is one of her songs that I listen to intravenously!  The lyrics are powerful and I hope it grips your heart like it does mine.

They're Growing Too Fast!

In only a few days, Grace will be 5 months old and in only a few months Benjamin will turn 2! Time truly is slipping through my fingers and sometimes I just want to grab hold of my babies and say, "Stop growing so fast!" Of course there are other moments when all I can think about is how wonderful it will be when they're finally older and I can get a decent night's sleep again. =)

Part of me is sad that my little Gracie is no longer a newborn, but has now graduated to being an infant. She now plays in all her "big baby" toys - the jumper, the exersaucer, the bumbo seat, and she now even sits in the highchair. She is full of energy and so active - always wanting to play or watch her big brother play. Her smile radiates from a very sweet and happy demeanor all day long. What a precious jewel she is in our family!

Benjamin continues to capture my heart. His sweet, sensitive nature has gone to a deeper level recently as he continuously lavishes us with his hugs & kisses (including his little sister). Although he's not a big talker yet, he understands every word I say and always helps me when I ask him to do something for me - like pick up Grace's pacifier. At the moment he's really passionate about his books and coloring with his crayons. Ever since his first haircut, about a month ago, he seems so much older to me. My baby boy has turned into such a handsome little toddler!

FYI:  In case you don't know, if you click on the above picture it will bring you to an album full of pictures - ENJOY!

Me? Blog? Whaaaaaat???

Blogging is completely new territory to me.  I've never blogged before
and I'm not sure how to even do it!  Hopefully, I'll figure it out
though.  =)  My husband has been gently nudging me for awhile now to
start my own blog.  I always scoffed at the idea, making excellent
excuses as to why I shouldn't.  Some of  them being:  I don't have the
time or energy (having a 20 month old and a 5 month old keeps me busy); I
haven't had a creative thought in quite awhile (mainly due to sleep
deprivation); or my favorite excuse - I'm not a writer!

But then, one afternoon, while rocking Grace to sleep for a nap, I was
bombarded with a flood of thoughts and ideas for a blog of my own.  It
really surprised me, since blogging wasn't even on my radar.  I'm not
sure why I suddenly had these thoughts - so completely out of nowhere -
but it left me with a strong impression to go for it ... and even a
desire to do it.  So, here I am.  Excited, and a little nervous.  But
isn't that how all great things in life begin?!

The Inspiration

A couple of years ago I found a super cool T-shirt in a tiny thrift
store.  It was blue with silver letters stating:  "The World Needs More
Hugs".  I instantly LOVED it.  It's not incredibly profound, but it is
incredibly true!  The world does need more hugs.  I mean, who wouldn't
like more hugs in their life?  In a world so detached from one another,
a simple hug does wonders for your soul.  It connects us to others and
makes us feel good.  Especially when a hug is given at that perfect time
- when you've had a really hard day and just need a good, hard squeeze.
Or sweet little hugs that come from our kids with sticky fingers that
completely melt your heart.  Perhaps, an unexpected hug from your
spouse; one where no words are needed to go with it, just being in their
embrace is healing all by itself.  So let's not be so stingy with our
hugs anymore. You very well could make someone's entire day just by
giving them one.