tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6433781479440370122024-03-14T00:59:38.082-07:00The Ward FamilyFun times at the Ward house!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger294125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-7202396434504821892015-01-19T15:20:00.001-08:002015-01-19T15:20:23.755-08:00Even in the mundane...Last I was making out my grocery list, as I do most weeks and was in search for a notebook. Having two little girls, there's always a notebook close by. I looked on our ottoman and spotted one of Bella's, so I flipped through the pages and grabbed the first one available. She doesn't write in her notebook from start to finish, she just whips it open and whatever page it opens to, if vacant, is where her pen falls. Side note- that's pretty much how she lives her life. Carefree and in no order!:) <br />
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I found a sheet of paper and was about to close the book when I decided to see what all she has composed in this book. She is one who loves to share her thoughts and speak her heart so you never know what you are going to find.<br />
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This the little gem that I found.</div>
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It blessed my heart to no end. Not only was I so excited to see her love for Jesus written on paper, but It made me feel so loved and cherished from my sweet Jesus. That he cares and delights in me so much that he bent down to speak to my heart to simply, Wait. To stop...and To take a moment to see a glimpse into the heart of my daughter. To see the work of Jesus in her life, and to encourage me as a momma that the love of Christ we have poured into her has not been missed. </div>
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You see, Jesus meets us every day in our mundane. In the moments we do over and over through the day, throughout the week, and throughout our lives. He's there. When laundry seems never ending, because lets face it...it's never ending... he's there to tender our hearts to the love we have for the little people we get to call family and get to wash clothes for. He's there to remind us that we are Blessed. That out lives are full. Full of love, laughter, pain, and full of LIFE. Because in HIM, we have life abundant and life everlasting. </div>
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Too often I get caught in the daily tasks of life and I miss the bending down of my Savior to be near to me. Because He's always there. It's a shame I allow miss Him far too often. </div>
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I wonder how many blessings I have missed by simply doing ordinary things?</div>
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I have been challenged and convicted to stop more. To seek him in everything and Find him in every moment. Because He never leaves or forsakes me.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-60830873111317497332015-01-02T05:19:00.001-08:002015-01-02T05:19:41.645-08:00The Storm<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: 'Noteworthy Light'; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">
Living “Intentional” in the storm.</div>
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As a child I hated storms. They brought so much anxiety and fear in my life. I can remember anytime there was a threat of severe weather I often made a pallet on my parents floor. There was something about being in their room, near them that brought comfort. </div>
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My parents did not have the ability to protect me any more than I could have protected myself, but my heart could rest being near the familiar and the comfort of those whom I found love and trust. </div>
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Because my room was in the front of the house and my window was elevated, the rain would hit my window so hard. It was loud and often times it was intense. I would take my pillow and place it over my head and try to drown out the noise of the storm. Sometimes that worked, but other times I ended up on my parents floor. </div>
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Now that I am married, and have children of my own, severe weather does not bother me like it used to, but I have discovered that other storms in my life can often cause me the same anxiety and fear that I had as a child when the rain would pound on my window and fear would rattle my heart. </div>
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I have heard many times that you are either in a storm, coming out of a storm, or getting ready to be in a storm. </div>
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That has never been more real in my life than in the past 4 months.</div>
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We have been challenged and hurt. Confused and frustrated. We have forgiven and loved. We have been fearful and peaceful. We have had to answer questions from our children when confusion and misunderstanding rattled their hearts. We have had to stand up for our family. We experienced health scares in our precious newborn niece, parents heath, and a loss of words in unknown steps.</div>
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We have loved each other through tears and pain and Praise Jesus, he has never left us and we have come out on the other side. The other side of this storm. This storm called life. </div>
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The problem isn’t the storm, but our resistance to it.</div>
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Our standing firm, holding fast, unwilling to move. Our refusal to change.</div>
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Perhaps in order to have the life we truly desire, some things need to be uprooted. Just maybe, our seemingly perfect order of life needs to be twisted and torn from our tightly clenched fist. You see, I think we’re so afraid of the storm that we hold on to things not meant for us. We stay contained inside the person we have grown out of and limit God the ability to work in a life He created for more.</div>
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The storm is not our greatest danger. The danger in the storm comes from not allowing God to move through you during the storm. </div>
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I am learning storms are not meant to cause fear, but they ARE meant to bring change. Change is hard at times. It’s hard when God calls you from the familiar and takes you to the unfamiliar. When He strips all you know as normal, to make His plan more known in your life. </div>
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Peace doesn’t usually come in ease and quiet. It comes when we are forced to expand our boundaries, step outside our comfort zone, and challenge deeply held and long-standing beliefs.</div>
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May we be intentional in and out of the storms. May our hearts desire for the Lord to move in and around us no matter what he has to take us through to make that happen. </div>
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May our family love more and grow in grace in 2015. And may we be more intentional to serve him, seek him and serve others this year. </div>
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Lord use our family in a magnitude beyond anything we can reach within ourselves.</div>
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Wherever you are are…be all there.</div>
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-Jim Elliot</div>
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I will walk by faith even when I cannot see.</div>
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2 Corinthians 5:1</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-31656267905007348502014-08-15T05:34:00.001-07:002014-08-15T05:34:25.396-07:00Summer SweetnessThe girls and I had a spa day a few weeks back. By spa day, I do mean we hit up the nail salon. <div><br></div><div>This sweet girl VERY kindly told her little nail lady at a minimum of 5 times "No I do not want design!" "No thank you." "Not today. Thanks!" "I usually do, yes, but I just want pink today!" "No ma'am. I said no thank you!" </div><div>I. Was. Rolling. </div><div>Mamma had to intervene. Praise Jesus she let it go! But, not without a fight!</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wsArfYY26lA/U-go6eYPhPI/AAAAAAAAD2o/l_nu3zDzR2Y/s640/blogger-image--983508152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wsArfYY26lA/U-go6eYPhPI/AAAAAAAAD2o/l_nu3zDzR2Y/s640/blogger-image--983508152.jpg"></a></div>This little rascal probably didn't Help the desire for the "up sale" when after soaking her toes for an hour declined the pedi. Sis was over it and made no bones about it. She had sat there long enough and her toes had soaked so she was good! Free foot bath is not on the price menu by the way!:)<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xr1ozNLiim0/U-go8awv08I/AAAAAAAAD2w/3JHufCyT_CY/s640/blogger-image--1707125522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xr1ozNLiim0/U-go8awv08I/AAAAAAAAD2w/3JHufCyT_CY/s640/blogger-image--1707125522.jpg"></a></div>Soaking in my days with these girls. Goodness it's been a great summer and I am going to miss these babes so much when they go back to school!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3nY9zCJXD9A/U-3-OrrRn-I/AAAAAAAAD3I/XPBbYdHEZMs/s640/blogger-image--123428297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3nY9zCJXD9A/U-3-OrrRn-I/AAAAAAAAD3I/XPBbYdHEZMs/s640/blogger-image--123428297.jpg"></a></div>Oh this man of mine. I tell ya what, he's a keeper. Seriously Cherish ever second we are together!!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Et5SkjRk_44/U-3-Qf0JngI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/Uni3y-YmWLo/s640/blogger-image--282268128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Et5SkjRk_44/U-3-Qf0JngI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/Uni3y-YmWLo/s640/blogger-image--282268128.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-g-6kSGbO118/U-3-Ty9v2bI/AAAAAAAAD3g/0GVoD8zfv1A/s640/blogger-image--42229453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-g-6kSGbO118/U-3-Ty9v2bI/AAAAAAAAD3g/0GVoD8zfv1A/s640/blogger-image--42229453.jpg"></a></div>He can man handle a tractor like nobody's business. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yW8inPklHsc/U-3-SLG2ebI/AAAAAAAAD3Y/gHduY9ykYv0/s640/blogger-image--1021919246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yW8inPklHsc/U-3-SLG2ebI/AAAAAAAAD3Y/gHduY9ykYv0/s640/blogger-image--1021919246.jpg"></a></div>We got a pool a couple of weeks ago and it has been so much fun, yet somuch work. Matt and I have seriously put days into this pool and the dirt work and lad scaling around it. It's been a labor of love for sure and I have so enjoyed working along side my man. Such a family affair!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-553gUP4erBo/U-go-KhZ3mI/AAAAAAAAD24/Xw2zf9RH4qo/s640/blogger-image--1870472716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-553gUP4erBo/U-go-KhZ3mI/AAAAAAAAD24/Xw2zf9RH4qo/s640/blogger-image--1870472716.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">If this isn't random I don't know what is. But I'm leaving you with the most delish rolls I have ever made!! Seriously so yum and so perfect. The right amount of fluff and density, and look how gorgeous they are! So...these are my new go to roll!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Sweet summertime please stick around. I haven't had quite enough of you yet!!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-42329848889323008092014-07-26T08:37:00.001-07:002014-07-31T20:57:08.309-07:00Memory Making.Last week we headed up to Camp Siloam where our Children were at Kid's Camp. It was so fun to show Alyssa where she will be attending camp next year. <div><br></div><div>Since my brother and Kaylie live in Siloam, we made a stop to see their new house and sweet Cora Janes nursery. Oh my heart may explode with love for this child. We adore the parents too!😜<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xdUkd0mk7Vc/U9PLFs0XdcI/AAAAAAAAD2A/19GqAWQ8oJI/s640/blogger-image--182786967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xdUkd0mk7Vc/U9PLFs0XdcI/AAAAAAAAD2A/19GqAWQ8oJI/s640/blogger-image--182786967.jpg"></a></div>We had lunch at the Wooden Spoon in Gentry. Oh my that place did not disappoint! So very yum. </div><div>How cute is my sister-n-law??:)😍<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-EgYO8H1H_yA/U9PK83iztNI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/W9f8_41sVaY/s640/blogger-image-455730910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-EgYO8H1H_yA/U9PK83iztNI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/W9f8_41sVaY/s640/blogger-image-455730910.jpg"></a></div>After we left camp we surprised the girls and headed to Branson. They had no idea. I had packed for them and loaded the truck and they never had a clue. </div><div>We were about 30 mins outside of Branson when they finally wondered where we were!:). So fun!!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CJ-0z3IT7yA/U9PLDr56RZI/AAAAAAAAD14/YrEMDE0viHo/s640/blogger-image-559542163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CJ-0z3IT7yA/U9PLDr56RZI/AAAAAAAAD14/YrEMDE0viHo/s640/blogger-image-559542163.jpg"></a></div>We headed straight for SDC and closed down the park. It was not crowded and the temp was amazing. Has this summer not been the best!!?!? Such a blessing. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R37jLQ7tC5I/U9PLKRB28vI/AAAAAAAAD2Y/sJ-ZWqzjvvQ/s640/blogger-image-1037664031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R37jLQ7tC5I/U9PLKRB28vI/AAAAAAAAD2Y/sJ-ZWqzjvvQ/s640/blogger-image-1037664031.jpg"></a></div>This little one was up a little earlier then the rest of the crew so she and I made our way to breakfast. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3Qj1MEzLT10/U9PK-rhjxuI/AAAAAAAAD1g/jUQdwvOwzJE/s640/blogger-image-566141386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3Qj1MEzLT10/U9PK-rhjxuI/AAAAAAAAD1g/jUQdwvOwzJE/s640/blogger-image-566141386.jpg"></a></div>We then came</div><div>Back an woke up sleepy head and served her breakfast in bed! Now that's the life. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1nVPV87O6QY/U9PLAAG-PFI/AAAAAAAAD1o/cX212gA5eo0/s640/blogger-image--751518071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1nVPV87O6QY/U9PLAAG-PFI/AAAAAAAAD1o/cX212gA5eo0/s640/blogger-image--751518071.jpg"></a></div>We had lunch at our favorite spot. Shorty Smalls! Always yum. Always leave way too full!:)<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Zo8y9z8Ruwg/U9PLHBwpgsI/AAAAAAAAD2I/NCvsB9-hTP4/s640/blogger-image-1662028986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Zo8y9z8Ruwg/U9PLHBwpgsI/AAAAAAAAD2I/NCvsB9-hTP4/s640/blogger-image-1662028986.jpg"></a></div>Oh how I love this man!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2aw1vUhKkdw/U9PLI3KOi5I/AAAAAAAAD2Q/HhVq-yyoyk0/s640/blogger-image--1036020473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2aw1vUhKkdw/U9PLI3KOi5I/AAAAAAAAD2Q/HhVq-yyoyk0/s640/blogger-image--1036020473.jpg"></a></div>Of course, a little bass pro action. Free entertainment!:)<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-iZEN5lYFqNE/U9PLCJvh6dI/AAAAAAAAD1w/n1eUOwNRkDs/s640/blogger-image-465621187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-iZEN5lYFqNE/U9PLCJvh6dI/AAAAAAAAD1w/n1eUOwNRkDs/s640/blogger-image-465621187.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So thankful we were able to get away for a few days. Summer is flying by and we are taking in each moment with these girls. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-80514572240353135562014-04-13T13:31:00.003-07:002014-04-13T13:31:47.617-07:00Spring break fun.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l_r9XZTaGsQ/UzwrGrWMxaI/AAAAAAAADws/35OE4mjidis/s640/blogger-image-982295284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l_r9XZTaGsQ/UzwrGrWMxaI/AAAAAAAADws/35OE4mjidis/s640/blogger-image-982295284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZpjuvZS9GtU/U0r0Js-07OI/AAAAAAAADy8/bJ5GwZpMCoY/s640/blogger-image--1255813914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZpjuvZS9GtU/U0r0Js-07OI/AAAAAAAADy8/bJ5GwZpMCoY/s640/blogger-image--1255813914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-F6Sj0OckE-E/U0r0GkoIy8I/AAAAAAAADys/kCC9BhpQZ6A/s640/blogger-image-555739781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Not sure why this is JUST now positing!:)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We started our SB week in Branson. It was so relaxing and just a blessing to get away with our girls and sweet friends. There was no one there and it was fabulous. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-F6Sj0OckE-E/U0r0GkoIy8I/AAAAAAAADys/kCC9BhpQZ6A/s640/blogger-image-555739781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-V03w8TQ324I/UzwrE2m2lhI/AAAAAAAADwk/OtIETE-A4Nw/s640/blogger-image--1538498652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-V03w8TQ324I/UzwrE2m2lhI/AAAAAAAADwk/OtIETE-A4Nw/s640/blogger-image--1538498652.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">These two dominated at go carts. They started in first and never let a car pass them. The competition was tight but they achieved the winner spot!:). So fun!!</div><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-F6Sj0OckE-E/U0r0GkoIy8I/AAAAAAAADys/kCC9BhpQZ6A/s640/blogger-image-555739781.jpg"></div><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZpjuvZS9GtU/U0r0Js-07OI/AAAAAAAADy8/bJ5GwZpMCoY/s640/blogger-image--1255813914.jpg"></div><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l_r9XZTaGsQ/UzwrGrWMxaI/AAAAAAAADws/35OE4mjidis/s640/blogger-image-982295284.jpg"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">These two and their daddy. Such a sweet bond. </div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zgS4BipmRjY/U0r0IJ_nyXI/AAAAAAAADy0/7Ba5xO8Mw6E/s640/blogger-image--322967400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zgS4BipmRjY/U0r0IJ_nyXI/AAAAAAAADy0/7Ba5xO8Mw6E/s640/blogger-image--322967400.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ykcYTIFYLjs/U0r0LPscyeI/AAAAAAAADzE/UjzFrqEQLA4/s640/blogger-image-2025254112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ykcYTIFYLjs/U0r0LPscyeI/AAAAAAAADzE/UjzFrqEQLA4/s640/blogger-image-2025254112.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">These four have a blast together. God has truly blessed their friendship more than we could have ever imagined. Their gender differences do not hinder their feed ship at all!:)</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zYwsC-zWqU4/U0r0MQLu9TI/AAAAAAAADzM/zxp_63EzF-4/s640/blogger-image--1690723629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zYwsC-zWqU4/U0r0MQLu9TI/AAAAAAAADzM/zxp_63EzF-4/s640/blogger-image--1690723629.jpg"></a></div>Had to post this yummy cheese bread I made with our pizza it was so good and so easy. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-berPXKwZAVc/UzwrIFr_bAI/AAAAAAAADw0/vyxyUEcJIBE/s640/blogger-image-922332681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-berPXKwZAVc/UzwrIFr_bAI/AAAAAAAADw0/vyxyUEcJIBE/s640/blogger-image-922332681.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Oh these girls. Alyssa looks way too old and Bella loves flashing the peace sign. ✌️ Not sure where that came from but there's hasn't been a pic lately she hasn't held up the deuces. </div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wCbSPqAu-PE/U0r0Dyd7MxI/AAAAAAAADyc/6mgkdvhKPTE/s640/blogger-image--2001160577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wCbSPqAu-PE/U0r0Dyd7MxI/AAAAAAAADyc/6mgkdvhKPTE/s640/blogger-image--2001160577.jpg"></a></div>The girls got to go to the houseboat for a few days with tier nana and papa and Alyssa got to go striped fishing with her papa. She was a happy girl. It was so chilly and she just was a trooper. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3Hd5SBlgKs8/U0r0FLHWtJI/AAAAAAAADyk/ojcIUgBY5S8/s640/blogger-image-1163078673.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3Hd5SBlgKs8/U0r0FLHWtJI/AAAAAAAADyk/ojcIUgBY5S8/s640/blogger-image-1163078673.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">What's a trip to the houseboat without a little Hot Springs Mexican??:)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I'm always so thankful for a little down time in our lives. It's so important. I hated to see my girls go back to school, but it just made me even more exited for summer break. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-91213679374998346062014-04-13T13:31:00.001-07:002014-04-14T10:55:00.592-07:00Weekend roundup.These girls and athletic gear. Melt me. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rc9DucWebfM/U0rz6cXYTbI/AAAAAAAADxs/jmL0vHTWxiw/s640/blogger-image--138620904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-rc9DucWebfM/U0rz6cXYTbI/AAAAAAAADxs/jmL0vHTWxiw/s640/blogger-image--138620904.jpg"></a></div>Bella prefers a dress most days. Who am I kidding...everyday, so it's a treat to see her in casual Friday!!;)<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-KU-nsX4SzeU/U0r0B-h6PfI/AAAAAAAADyU/n4XcZNKoAzQ/s640/blogger-image-380261534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-KU-nsX4SzeU/U0r0B-h6PfI/AAAAAAAADyU/n4XcZNKoAzQ/s640/blogger-image-380261534.jpg"></a></div>Bella and I needed to hit up the VB library and you CAN'T go to the library without pulling in Paul's Bakery. I mean, the car literally takes over and gravity pulls you right to the door. It's pretty amazing actually. <div>Who could turn down this deliciousness?!:!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KAHPA3Dmhx4/U0rz7g9IvyI/AAAAAAAADx0/ju7iwHFVSWs/s640/blogger-image--1108349903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KAHPA3Dmhx4/U0rz7g9IvyI/AAAAAAAADx0/ju7iwHFVSWs/s640/blogger-image--1108349903.jpg"></a></div>And this adorable date?!;)<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-h_6DJSWiyrc/U0r0AjL1YOI/AAAAAAAADyM/XTRHZmtgyzo/s640/blogger-image-991005013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-h_6DJSWiyrc/U0r0AjL1YOI/AAAAAAAADyM/XTRHZmtgyzo/s640/blogger-image-991005013.jpg"></a></div>Royalty was calling and Princess Bella needed to get in full attire as soon as we got home. But this getup was worn for a short time. I had to capture the hideousness. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0btWRfoZI-A/U0rz9lkXYxI/AAAAAAAADx8/SckLLNhDaYA/s640/blogger-image--1798177244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0btWRfoZI-A/U0rz9lkXYxI/AAAAAAAADx8/SckLLNhDaYA/s640/blogger-image--1798177244.jpg"></a></div>My babes and I before church yesterday! Love those sweeties. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g1HGu9iZ2Yk/U0rz_CAAJtI/AAAAAAAADyE/0VXXo9Uo53I/s640/blogger-image--758843867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g1HGu9iZ2Yk/U0rz_CAAJtI/AAAAAAAADyE/0VXXo9Uo53I/s640/blogger-image--758843867.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Alyssa is getting so grown up. She's a long legged, sweet spirited, tender hearted, loyal loving little beauty and I am constantly blessed by her heart. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Time slow down. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My focus has been more on intentional living. Life is but a vapor and time is not slowing down. I just don't want to have any regrets of Wasting time on meaningless things. I want to be present in the life God has given me and for as love as He gives me breath. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalms 139:23, 24 </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-54759321584135605532014-04-11T11:11:00.001-07:002014-04-11T11:11:12.961-07:00A day with A!!When we were getting hit with snow every other day, little sis got to miss a little more school than the big girl. She was a little bummed but I promised her we would make up for it one day. <div><br></div><div>So this week, I told Alyssa she was skipping school and having a day with momma. </div><div>I am not one to let my girls miss school. This was a special occurrence. Testing is over, she hasn't missed, and she has had straight A's. </div><div>It's so important to make her feel special. A little sibling sometimes appears to get more attention due to the fact they are more dependent. </div><div>So, today was all about Alysa Lauren. I loved every second with her!!</div><div><br></div><div>We started the day with Manis and Pedis, went to lunch, and did some shopping!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6Ew98n_06KI/U0gwPnGtLWI/AAAAAAAADxc/bbGk7VzleIk/s640/blogger-image-1839305378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6Ew98n_06KI/U0gwPnGtLWI/AAAAAAAADxc/bbGk7VzleIk/s640/blogger-image-1839305378.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wJgOTC7kB0w/U0gwOL8FvOI/AAAAAAAADxU/2XpknA1hr5M/s640/blogger-image--391959682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wJgOTC7kB0w/U0gwOL8FvOI/AAAAAAAADxU/2XpknA1hr5M/s640/blogger-image--391959682.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qeFh4QLrWLs/U0gwM6QORzI/AAAAAAAADxM/4b2nztTtiPU/s640/blogger-image--322009179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-qeFh4QLrWLs/U0gwM6QORzI/AAAAAAAADxM/4b2nztTtiPU/s640/blogger-image--322009179.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I love this girl so much. She's getting way too grown up, but I see God molding her precious life and I can't wait to see the amazing ways He uses her!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Love you my first born!!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-60498114840065749752014-04-03T11:51:00.002-07:002014-04-03T11:51:37.118-07:00Just wishing for Spring.<div style="text-align: center;">
The Ward clan is ready for spring! We spent an evening last week getting the flower beds mulched and ready to plant flowers when the temps warm up a bit! </div>
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What can I say? I am a hard working girl!:) </div>
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Bella and Lola. Such a love/hate relationship. Let me just go on the record and say that Cavalier dogs are the most laid back breed and amazing with children. I know this from experience. The end.</div>
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God some new jeans the other day and felt something in my backside. Found this little beauty that was left behind. Literally. Ouch.</div>
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We love some Hog baseball. There is nothing quite like relaxing at a baseball game. Especially with this man by my side.</div>
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Oh sweet girl and Ribby! She is just presh!</div>
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That's about as random of a post as they come. Cheers to Thursday!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-67088272257205070252014-03-14T07:50:00.001-07:002014-04-02T08:13:14.986-07:00Virginia getaway<div style="text-align: center;">
We traveled to Virginia Beach area this past weekend to see our good friends Taylor and Meg and to meet their sweet baby boy, Colton. </div>
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These two hit it off and were quite the little buds. This is the sweetest most content baby. We hauled him all over creation and he never made a peep.</div>
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We were so blessed to have a girls morning out to our favorite. Panera and pedi's. It was so fun and so relaxing and so great to get to do those two things in person, together. This girl is amazing and I am so thankful that distance only strengthens our friendship. We both always feel so refreshed after time spent together, and I am so blessed by you, Meg!</div>
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I love this man, and I am so thankful to travel and see the world with him!</div>
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Oh how we love the Smithson family! Bro. Stu was the children's pastor at Lavaca and Matt grew up with him. God recently called them to leave Lavaca and continue their ministry in Virginia. We sure miss them, but God is using them in mighty ways to reach a boat load of families (no pun intended). We are so thankful for their friendship and the call on their lives. This is one precious family!</div>
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We did a lot of this. It was so much fun! Eating is my fav.</div>
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Thanks so much Meg and Tay and baby C for your generosity this weekend. Your friendship is a blessing to us and we thank God for the closeness that even distance can not break! Love you guys!!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-43647798173028672492014-03-14T06:47:00.002-07:002014-03-14T07:49:53.210-07:00Low Key Kind of Week.<div style="text-align: center;">
This week has been a pretty low key week for us. We returned Monday from Virginia and celebrated the Mr. And his b-day with the girls. Then Alyssa and I went on a run! </div>
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She's a mess. She loves to run with momma, and I love having her as my partner. </div>
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Just one of my all time fav meals. Chicken Alfredo. I love carbs. It's real, folks. </div>
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Bless it. She sure has it rough. </div>
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Yep, I let my child hang out of the sunroof at parent pick up. So any of you who saw a kid hanging out the top of a car...it was mine. She's only little once and next year I will be picking HER up in that line so I'm living it up with her. If you see her on the hood of the car... don't think anything it of it. #livinginthemoment</div>
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Now this is a car wash. They had my car washed before I went through the tunnel. Please and thank you.</div>
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Pretty sure I freaked them out and almost ran over a worker. Drive and neutral are NOT the same thing. In case you wondered. The end. Moving on. </div>
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My kids. They do NOt have the same idea of clean as I do. My little Alyssa she sure is a hoarder. Everything is special to her and has a purpose in her room. I love that she savors the smallest things and that she values what she has. It sure blessed my heart to find this little gift in the middle of her chaotic closet. </div>
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She's precious and I find these little notes all the time. I pray she learns to clean up a little better, but that she will never stop writing us these sweet notes. </div>
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Oh my hubs. He's so good to me. He knows the way to my heart. I know some girls hate getting flowers, but I love nothing more than having fresh flowers in my house. He loves to bless me and he did just that today. </div>
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It's been a good week. Low key and relaxing. Just what the Ward's needed. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-58837548289831808312014-03-03T06:07:00.001-08:002014-03-13T12:57:51.000-07:00Weekend BlissA couple weekends ago we (Matt and I) enjoyed a couple days to ourselves while the girls were having a blast with their aunt and uncle(s).<div>Let me just say, our girls are blessed with amazing aunts and uncles. They are loved beyond words and Matt and I could not be more grateful for the Godliness they pour in to our little ones. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kPE6SQjm43s/UxSMnIewxWI/AAAAAAAADtI/ZC3CvAMF794/s640/blogger-image--1612745992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kPE6SQjm43s/UxSMnIewxWI/AAAAAAAADtI/ZC3CvAMF794/s640/blogger-image--1612745992.jpg"></a></div>So while the girls are away...we like to play. So we made a weekend of Hogs sports. We love our Hogs. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--fwK8FWeWUQ/UxSMlxivdeI/AAAAAAAADtA/HK_mDC-10ZE/s640/blogger-image-818455627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--fwK8FWeWUQ/UxSMlxivdeI/AAAAAAAADtA/HK_mDC-10ZE/s640/blogger-image-818455627.jpg"></a></div>The girls got to go to the naturals stadium (uncle Matt works there) and take batting practice and go in the sound booth. They had a blast. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZYmVbbU-xOg/UxSMi3rYWfI/AAAAAAAADsw/YHa4Ha5Lr8I/s640/blogger-image--993790736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ZYmVbbU-xOg/UxSMi3rYWfI/AAAAAAAADsw/YHa4Ha5Lr8I/s640/blogger-image--993790736.jpg"></a></div>We enjoyed baseball for two days and a basketball game in the middle. So fun. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GuqKogHc7nw/UxSMot886VI/AAAAAAAADtQ/cI6xFJHQhgM/s640/blogger-image--297904371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GuqKogHc7nw/UxSMot886VI/AAAAAAAADtQ/cI6xFJHQhgM/s640/blogger-image--297904371.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-29odDFQyrNU/UxSMkVusLmI/AAAAAAAADs4/DzzbTUPHze4/s640/blogger-image--1689063815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-29odDFQyrNU/UxSMkVusLmI/AAAAAAAADs4/DzzbTUPHze4/s640/blogger-image--1689063815.jpg"></a></div>Daddy and his girls before church. Be still my heart. Thankful they have a daddy who loves them and pours Christ in their lives. He is such an example of selflessness and strength and the girls adore him. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eDO8Rm-hADc/UxOoOUy_0LI/AAAAAAAADsY/cHP_tpUbzm0/s640/blogger-image-20614980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eDO8Rm-hADc/UxOoOUy_0LI/AAAAAAAADsY/cHP_tpUbzm0/s640/blogger-image-20614980.jpg"></a></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-78727528679990621082014-03-02T20:32:00.001-08:002014-03-03T06:06:39.252-08:00Saturday night in the living room...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Saturday night Matt and I were doing our nightly devotional with the girls. We were talking about the story of Abraham and Sarah and how God promised He would bless their family and give them a child, and that He would use their family to rescue the world. Though this seemed unimaginable in their eyes, Abraham and Sarah chose to trust what God had said, more than what their eyes could see. How could God use our family for His rescue plan when we don't even have a child? Plus, we are 90 years old. Waaayyyyyy past our baby making days, but God said it, so we believe it. </div>
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We asked the girls questions about faith and trust and reminded them that God will call us to things that may seem crazy to you and others, but you have to trust in His call and have faith that He will see you through whatever he puts in front of you. Just like Abraham, we have to choose faith over what we can visually see. Most of the time, God only shows us our next step, but beyond that step may be a lot of uncertainty. That's when we cling to Him and His word to guide and secure our walk. </div>
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It made me think about How often we miss what God has for us out of fear? Fear that we're not quite knowledgeable enough. Or maybe we see our sin greater than His grace and don't think we are worthy enough for God to use. </div>
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We fear that He will not see us through. He will allow us to fail. </div>
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How can we not trust? How can I look at what the Savior of the World did for me and still lack trust that He will see me through the minutes and hours of my days? The days that HE has written for my life. The days that HE has ordained... and He can't supply all my needs? </div>
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Alyssa began to share about conversations she has had at school and what others have said and say about Christ. She was so passionate about her Faith in Christ and had solid knowledge to back up her stand. She told Matt and I that some had told her that "Christ is not real. He did not create the world. All of this just appeared. How can you believe in something you have never seen." </div>
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Alyssa said:</div>
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" I always tell them, how can you believe that all of this just appeared?"</div>
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" A tree does not have the power to just appear. You don't see the wind, but you believe it is real and you feel it."</div>
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" I don't see Jesus but I see what he has created and I feel him living in me." </div>
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"I believe the Bible and I trust the truth that is in it."</div>
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"I mean, the Bible is like a library of truth. Anything you could possibly need is in it, you just have to read it."</div>
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Mind you she is 7 and I do not recall a single conversation I had where I had to defend my faith at the ripe age of 7. But I am so proud of the Faith that she has. The belief that God will use her and that he will supply all that she needs to do whatever it is He has for her. </div>
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As she was sharing with us Matt and I just looked at each other in utter thankfulness of her heart and what the Lord is doing in her life.</div>
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(Keeping it Real Moment: all this took place while Bella was crying because she didn't want to talk about Jesus and she wanted to play a family game. Real life is always messy and sweet, and they can co-exist)</div>
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Parenting is HARD stuff y'all!!! There have been way too many times lately that I have doubted that anything we are teaching our girls is sticking in their little minds and that they could probably use some new parents because we just were not cutting it. </div>
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But, God in a way only He can, showed up in to our living room on a Saturday evening and He lavished us with grace and assurance that His word never returns void. Yes, it is our job to teach and pour His truth in to their little lives, but He holds their hearts and their future and their lives in the palm of His hand and nothing can snatch them away from Him. </div>
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I have been challenged this weekend to live fearlessly and in total abandonment to the call that God has on my life, and on our life as a family. I have also been reminded that our time with Him, whether alone, with family, or corporately always leaves us/me encouraged and refreshed. </div>
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Allow your children to share with you their thoughts about Christ and what He is doing in their lives. It might just be that the Lord wants to speak to you through your child and give you a word of truth that challenges you to a closer more sold out life to Him.</div>
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He can do anything in us and through us. Allow Him.<br />
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<i>"Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."</i><br />
<i>Joshua 1:9</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-82097356441002765072014-02-24T13:29:00.002-08:002014-02-24T13:29:29.221-08:00Weekend Roundup<div style="text-align: center;">
Let me just start off by saying Praise Jesus for the weekend. It has never come at a more needed time in our lives and we just took it all in! </div>
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We enjoyed our Saturday outside. Always good for the soul to breathe in some fresh air and especially when it is warm fresh air. I love summertime. Just throwing that out there.</div>
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Sunday's are one of my favorite days of the week. A refueling for the week ahead with other believers.</div>
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We had a Sunday filled with faith, family and friends. All of my favs. The girls had a tea party for one of Alyssa's friends. Well, let me rephrase that, Alyssa had a party and Belle Boo came along for the party and just included herself. She lived it up.</div>
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Alyssa and one of her sweet friends. </div>
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Told ya!</div>
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Such a beauty inside and out. She had a blast.</div>
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We also celebrated my grandma's 79th Birthday on Sunday as well. I am not sure I could love this picture more. This lady is a beauty from the inside out and she will leave a legacy of faith and strong values in our family. I could never thank her enough. </div>
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Thankful for a weekend of Jesus, family, and friends. That's always a good combo!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-26484988135319380342014-02-21T07:12:00.003-08:002014-02-22T19:51:47.104-08:00Weekly Happenings<div style="text-align: center;">
Our week through the trusty ol iphone. </div>
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I mean really? This dog!! Have you seen anything cuter? Let me start by saying I am not really an animal lover. They just have never really been my thing. I know...heartless. But, we caved and got the girls a dog for Christmas and she is seriously the sweetest thing ever. This girl has just made herself right at home in our little family and we (yes, me too) absolutely adore her. She is an amazing breed (King Charles Cavalier) for children. Bella...enough said! She tolerates her well!!:) </div>
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A date with this man always makes my heart skip a beat. He's my rock and my best friend and life with him is wild and adventurous but I would have it no other way!!</div>
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Little miss is just getting way too big. Full of life as always and sweeter than ever!</div>
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When on when did this happen? I have not gotten older so how is it that my daughters have? Weird I know! She is such a Joy and has the sweetest heart. She is such a beauty on the inside and out. </div>
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Little miss flexible. She DID NOT get that from me! Thanks aunt Chels. You rock!</div>
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Someone snuck in the little bit in her bed. Sooo sweet. A girl and her dog!</div>
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My days with this girl are so special. In a few months she will begin Kindergarten and be away every day. I am cherishing our time together and so thankful I have been able to stay home with both the girls. It is something I will forever cherish and be thankful for.</div>
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Dinner at their fav. Mommy never complains either. Rivertown is just always delish!!<br>
The company is great too!!!</div>
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We did Preschool at home on Thursday and Bella loved it. We do a lot of work from home, but she wasn't really feeling too hot so I kept her home (revert to previous paragraph about school next year) and we did worksheets from home. This girl would seriously do these all day long. </div>
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Have a super weekend friends. Enjoy the beauty around you in whatever form that may be. God's so good and his blessings are abundant. Take them in!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-13518347264649023742014-02-21T06:56:00.003-08:002014-02-21T07:00:06.670-08:00Friday favs.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lU0JEkXDz2I/Uwac0WrIJ8I/AAAAAAAADqI/uXqWR3tLj2Y/s640/blogger-image-978589917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0Y5xvYPdYLI/Uwac45NYEWI/AAAAAAAADqg/uqG-XVNC3ns/s640/blogger-image-1004249032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0Y5xvYPdYLI/Uwac45NYEWI/AAAAAAAADqg/uqG-XVNC3ns/s640/blogger-image-1004249032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-dp8eeYLnzTk/Uwac18JTcbI/AAAAAAAADqQ/hgfhNZPkyvQ/s640/blogger-image--707338525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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Happy Friday Friends! Here are a few of my favorite things this week! </div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_BoXSP5uawk/Uwac3ud30jI/AAAAAAAADqY/nBZwD1Uk6jQ/s640/blogger-image-1283255575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iTdyhbbJMWc/Uwac6VjHz4I/AAAAAAAADqo/44vdo_3E_ZY/s640/blogger-image-2074793478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iTdyhbbJMWc/Uwac6VjHz4I/AAAAAAAADqo/44vdo_3E_ZY/s400/blogger-image-2074793478.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Ok, let me just start our by saying, the <a href="http://www.thepioneerwoman.com/">Pioneer Woman</a> is just amazing. There is not one thing that I have ever made from sweet little Ree that I have not loved. My love for <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/06/cinammon_rolls_/">these</a> delicious rolls is something I can not explain. They are perfectly good every single time I make them and so easy. They freeze well so I can pull them out on Saturday mornings for a treat. They are covered with a maple frosting (you are not blind...these are pre-frosting) that is divine, but you can frost with your choice of glaze. I used to make them only at Christmas and give them away. That was just crazy (not the giving away, but only making them at Christmas) so I pretty much keep them in my freezer at all times. Delish!</div>
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I love Aldi for many, many reasons. But one reason being these little yummy nuggets. They are so yum and the perfect little snack. Go to your nearest Aldi and get yourself some. You can thank me later. If you don't have a Aldi near you..Sorry. </div>
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This Salad. It's one of my all time favs. Merel's in Alma. You do this thing right. Every time. Thanks.</div>
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A Chicklet machine. I don't pass them up too often. Love them. Need them.</div>
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I love this cute little wristlet that my momma got me for V-day. It's so perfect to run in to a store with your keys and cash or debit card. Less baggage, literally..:)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynwRTD5jVN4/UwdoMjDKW2I/AAAAAAAADq4/F7Zs20dAf_M/s1600/7c69da6c0993cca8adf3fe04cf5a49cf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynwRTD5jVN4/UwdoMjDKW2I/AAAAAAAADq4/F7Zs20dAf_M/s1600/7c69da6c0993cca8adf3fe04cf5a49cf.jpg" height="227" width="320" /></a></div>
I am in love with these cute <a href="http://www.toms.com/">Toms</a> sandals. It is not quite time to be pulling these babes out yet, but we have had a few warm days this past week and it is getting me soooo ready for spring and summer.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GfwruO0Oc1I/UwdoPUTIMjI/AAAAAAAADrA/MUnrmc1g4pM/s1600/b84fbdb10d6c6cfd07708dbbd461f59f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GfwruO0Oc1I/UwdoPUTIMjI/AAAAAAAADrA/MUnrmc1g4pM/s1600/b84fbdb10d6c6cfd07708dbbd461f59f.jpg" /></a></div>
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This shampoo and conditioner is seriously one of my favs of all time. I have tried so many different kinds and this is just SO good. It leaves my hair soft and shiny, but also with so much body too. Often, the two don't work together too well! Try it. You will love it too!!</div>
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What are some of your favorite products and things you are loving right now? </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-80397528251815719892014-02-20T10:10:00.001-08:002014-02-20T12:59:00.441-08:00The chase<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As I was doing my quiet time today I stumbled upon this little exert from a website that was under construction and had not been updated since May of 2013. As I began to scroll through the site this is what I read.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b> Permanently Under Construction.</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I like that the Proverbs 31 woman, </span></b></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">above all else, </span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">is a woman who feared the Lord.</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I don’t like seeing in me a stronger desire to <em style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">do</span></em> what she did </span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">than to fear Whom it was she feared.</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">She feared the Lord. </span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Her focus was on Him,</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> her actions were simply a response of her heart.</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I’m encouraged by her example. </span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fearing God,</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">she left no room for the opinions of others </span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">or the whims of her heart.</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I couldn't help but think about the sovereignty of God and the fact that I came across a a website that had changed their domain name and He had something for ME.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Something that I needed. Encouragement that this life is not about pleasing others. It's about living in absolute abandonment of what He has called me to do. I can't rely on the "whims of my heart" to guide me. I know my heart and I know it can be yucky and misleading. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Being a wife, a mother, a friend, and just a woman for that matter can be exhausting. The daily tasks that are thrown at us sometimes don't allow a lot of time to ourselves. God has gifted women in such a way that allows us to carry this load, but not without His help. He wants our focus to be on Him and his ability to strengthen and His ability to bring grace when needed. But too often,<i> life</i> gets first place and our focus becomes on other priorities and it isn't until we feel our heart about to fall apart that we stop and realize we have been trying to do it all on our own. In our own strength and we end up overwhelmed and heavy hearted. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Too often I find myself chasing after God, and I neglect the opportunity to walk <i>with</i> God. Walking <i>with</i> Him as he guides. To chase after anything is exhausting and constant. It never brings me to a place of peace, it always leads me to exhaustion and lack of fulfillment in my life. A desire for more. The reality is, what I am running after is right beside me all along and all I have to do is reach out and grab it. But I choose to chase. His desire and his plan is for us to walk <i>with</i> him. In the pace that he sets for our lives. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Too often, I race through my day chasing after my agenda. My plan. Marking things off My checklist. I miss Him and I neglect His leadership in my life. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I wonder how different my day would look if I woke up asking God each and every day, Lord what is it that you have for me today? Don't let me do anything that is not on <i>your</i> list. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Unfortunately this is something that I battle far too often. You would think over time that my heart would always lead me in His direction and to Him in all areas of my life, but like the title of the blog I read, our lives are Permanently Under Construction and just like the song I learned as a child... He's still working on me. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Though my heart and flesh may fail, God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Psalm 73:26</i></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-71633449650601079232014-02-04T12:47:00.001-08:002014-02-04T12:47:22.299-08:00A wild winter.As you all know, this has been a winter for the record books. I try to embrace each and every season and I always love a good snow day. Especially one that causes for a cancellation or two...or a few weeks of cancellations. Snow is so magical and so mystical and I love to stand at the window sipping coffee and just watch the beauty fall. There really isn't much better. So amazing that Jesus of mine. Now, I am a summer girl. I love everything about it, but I am enjoying that we are actually having a pretty legit winter this year. The Lord knew we all needed to slow down and breathe him in. <br />
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For whatever reason I have not taken a single pic in the snow this year. I'm not real sure why, but I whipped out the "Real" camera (not the iphone version) and captured my cuties playing and having a blast!<br />
Memories. Isn't that what life is made of?:)<br />
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<section id="postingbody" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-size: 16px; font: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></section>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-32141941416937898352014-02-03T14:42:00.000-08:002014-02-03T14:42:22.178-08:00Quiet NoiseThe past few weeks I have gotten on here to update my blog and honestly have just felt a loss for words. A void of words and a lack of anything interesting to share with you. We have been busy. Life has happened and continues to, but my words have been few. <br />
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I felt a couple of weeks back that I needed to take a break from all things social media. It was something that was clouding my thoughts and taking up more time than it should in my life. I tried to limit myself to minimal amounts of daily use but that never seemed to be enough. At the end of the day when the kiddos were in bed and the house was quiet, my mind was still running from all the noise I had allowed in that day. Noise that was keeping me from being the wife and mother God had called me to be. <br />
Sidenote: This is not a bash to social media. I have had my fair share of browsing SM in order to scope out the life of someone else and quite frankly enjoyed it...too much...hence why I am writing this post. :) This is just an area of my life I felt God was leading me to change...for me. This is about my personal convictions...nothing more...nothing less.<br />
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Its amazing how much time I can waste. Uh hmmm... That's the understatement of the century. Because quite frankly I am pretty sure I could hold a record in losing time doing things that just hold no value. Things that at the end of the day, or the end of my life for that matter..simply do not matter.<br />
I would catch myself getting frustrated at my girls because they needed to have "Patience. Just have Patience. Does it look like I am busy?" <br />
Oh, because the pics on Instagram of all these mommas doing fun things with their kids while I sit and snoop into their lives is so much more important. I end my "browsing session" feeling like half the mom they are because I didn't take my girls to the park to enjoy this glorious weather, but instead chose to peak in on the lives of others around me while missing out on the life God placed right in front of me. BAM...can I have my face back?? <br />
The speck in my own eye. I struggle to see that...far too often.<br />
Or, how about not making eye contact with Matt while he spoke to me because by golly I can multitask with the best of them...and this text about what Susie (I really don't have a friend named Susie...I mean I could, and If I do I am sorry for not remembering you) ( I do have a MNL named Sue but that's not who I am talking about) (Whew feel better) is making for dinner and what all she did today is far more important that looking the love of my life in the eyes while he shared with me about something he felt was important enough to tell the Love of his life.<br />
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I had lost the ability to quiet my soul to the things around me and soften my mind to the things that really hold my heart. <br />
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Noise became my enemy. Girls you are being too loud. Matt, why are you talking so loud? Does the TV have to be THAT loud? Can we please turn down the radio? Better yet let's just sit in silence. Can we just whisper? <br />
My life had been so consumed with noise from the outside, but by filling my life with and my time (both of which I can't get back) with a constant something...I allowed no room in my heart for the investments that really matter. It wasn't until I took all those things away that I was really able to take in the silence...and enjoy the noise GOD had placed in my life. Noise from my children laughing and playing together. Noise from them fighting (yes they do that and yes it is loud). Noise from a movie with my hubs and the sweet conversation we share together. Gosh we miss out on so much by neglecting the sweetest gifts God has given us. <br />
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I am so thankful for the still small voice of the Lord and His ability to see things for what they really are, and a love that is greater than anything I can fathom. Because by golly I am a mess of a person. I mess up more than I care to share and my children and husband have seen sides of me I would never want them to see. But, I am a real person with real struggles and raw feelings and I never want to portray a different person than the one I truly am. I gain nothing from that, and neither does anyone else. I want to be real and true and share from my heart.<br />
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My greatest desire is for my children to live a life that outlives theirs and my hope is that Matt and I are a living example of that in their lives. <br />
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Last week I had a friend ask me if I had gotten off SM. I told her yes and she said she had missed seeing pics of our family. I told her thank you and she replied with, "It's so quiet without it, isn't it?" It sure is. She will never know how much that spoke to me and how the Lord used her in that moment to speak truth over me and affirm what the He was calling me to do. <br />
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<i>Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you wont need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct. Galations 6:4-5</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-33592190469656659852014-01-20T10:55:00.004-08:002014-01-20T10:55:42.123-08:00A busy week<br />
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These past few weeks have been crazy busy. I feel like I write that in every blog, so maybe I should just say life is crazy busy. It is. It is such a good busy, but a busy life can lead to a lot of laundry. Just saying...I bet busy people have a lot of laundry piling high in their laundry room and possibly it covers the floor too. That would be really bad. Sigh...</div>
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So while my laundry machine is washing and my dryer is drying, I thought I would update this nifty little blog of mine with some of my favorite little girls.</div>
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On Monday's Alyssa and I often get the opportunity to go out for dinner just her and I. We LOVE this time and this week was no different. A girl after my own heart. Rolls. I love all things carb related.</div>
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Bella Boo is now 5 (not possible) and she is just so funny. She is always ready for school and seriously wakes up the same every single day. Happy and ready for breakfast. I love her priorities:)</div>
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Bella decided Lola girl needed to come with us one day this week and I looked in the backseat and she was reading to her. A girl and her dog. These girls love their Lola Lou.</div>
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Sweet sisters before church yesterday. They really can get a long and when they do it sure is blissful. Nothing hurts my heart more then when they fight and argue and are just mean to each other. </div>
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Matt and I always pray for our girls, of course, but I have been so burdened lately to pray much more specifics over their lives. They both have different needs and different struggles so we set them down and asked what areas of their life they needed help or guidance in. It was so neat to hear their hearts and see how the Lord is working in their lives.</div>
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Always thankful for each day, but some weeks are just extra sweet and this was one of those. </div>
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<i>Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-11953420464557375232014-01-12T18:59:00.001-08:002014-01-12T18:59:11.272-08:00Radiate<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3f4549; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I know I am about two weeks behind the whole craze of posting resolutions/goals. But, quite frankly...that's just how I roll with things. I am ok with that. :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3f4549; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I have thought about this year and what I want my life to look like, and who I want to be coming out of this year. I have spent a lot of time in prayer the past couple of weeks, just for guidance in some personal decisions we were making, but one thing I have said...and felt in my heart over and over is the word <b><i>Radiate</i>.</b> Through prayer I have prayed many times that I want to "<i>Radiate you, Lord.</i>" I want our girls lives to "<i>Radiate you.</i>" I want my marriage and the way I carry myself to "<i>Radiate</i> <i>you</i>" daily. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3f4549; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I googled the word radiate and this is what I came up with. Radiate: diverge or spread. give off. fan out. spread out. branch out or extend. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3f4549; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">To have parts proceeding out from a center.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3f4549; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I want my life to spread, and give off, and fan out, and extend His goodness from the center of me so that ever angle of my life reflects Jesus. <i>Radiate.</i> That's what I want my life to mean this year. That's what I want others to see in me this year...you Lord and only you. If I am truly reflecting Christ, my life can't help but be radiant. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3f4549; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">So as we move in to 2014 (two weeks later) I have a passion to rest in him. To seek Him in everything. If I see Him in everything I will seek him in everything. If I look for Him in everything I will find Him in everything. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3f4549; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"> "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you."</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-43523781386013078402014-01-12T15:08:00.002-08:002014-01-12T15:08:49.020-08:00A long break.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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The girls have had A LOT of extra time at home the past month and a half. It has brought so much fun and a little extra drama. Let's be real. Both girls were out for almost a week just a couple of weeks before school got out. Then we had Christmas break that lasted about 3 weeks. Then the day after they went back to school this week, we got a crazy ice storm that left them out of school the rest of the week. Whew...this momma has some laundry to do...who does that stuff during a break anyway?:)</div>
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I realize I am way behind on posting pictures from the break, but better late than ever right?</div>
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The girls with their Papa Carl. They sure do love this man and he adores them!</div>
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On our way to Christmas with my Mom and Mike. Nana Terri and Papa Mike. We had a blast as always. </div>
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Daddy reading the Christmas Story to the girls Christmas morning.</div>
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The love birds...Michael and Kaylie and their first Christmas together at dads. We sure do love this girl and are looking forward to many years of memories!</div>
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We left the day after Christmas and took the girls to Branson. It was their Christmas gift from us. Let me just say we had a blast. The best thing we have ever done. Our girls need nothing and we all enjoyed being together much more than any gift we could have ever given them.</div>
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Sweet sisters at Chateau on the Lake.</div>
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Silver Dollar City is one of our favorites. Having season passes has more than paid for itself! Such a blessing.</div>
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These two road Thunderation for the first time and did sooo good. Matt and I were so excited. We are roller coaster junkies and this just made our lives complete. It's the little things.:)</div>
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I love this man with everything in me. </div>
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My sweet Alyssa. </div>
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Such a fun break full of memories. We are so thankful to be back and school and the countdown is on to the end of the school year! Bring on Sweet Summertime!!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-22803912800692630712013-12-30T07:48:00.001-08:002013-12-30T07:48:16.603-08:00Silent night.This Christmas was wrapped in warmth, peace, love and a whole lotta food. All of my favorite things. We have A LOT of places to be at Christmas time. We love our family and enjoy every single time we get to be together. This year has been nothing short of amazing and His presence surrounded our Christmas and with that brought much peace, comfort and rest. <div>
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Alyssa woke up the Saturday before Christmas feeling just dandy. On our way to my mom's for Christmas the scene had changed and she was down for the count. The next 2 days she spent her Christmas in the bed of whom ever's house we were at. She just did not feel well. The stomach bug is not a fun bug. She would feel great during the day and then by night have "the rumble" again. All was well on Christmas Eve, until we arrived at the church for our 10pm Christmas Eve service. Matt had to arrive early to make sure all things were "good to go" for the service. We were in Matt's office when "the look" came across her face. The look of, "Where is the closest bathroom and come with me momma!" I knew it was not over. So Alyssa and I ran to sonic to grab a sprite. Since that's what you do when you are sick. You always drink sprite. :) Everyone else had the same idea. Sonic was hopping...needless to say after a 20 min wait to have our order taken, Alyssa decided she wanted to pass on the sprite. So we headed back to the church. She fell asleep, and I sat in the car with her not sure what do to. Bella was inside with Matt..doing who knows what! I did hear that she told a few people Alyssa had a ear confection...that kid!</div>
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I watched as people entered the church and I could feel the sweet spirit of the Lord on that evening. The lights were out and I could see the flicker of the candlelight. The piano played the sweet songs of Jesus and people entered the church with their warm coats and their warm hearts. Families, singles, and widows all joined in to worship the Son of God on this Christmas Eve night. </div>
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I ran in and grabbed Bella Grace and brought her to the car with me. Alyssa sound asleep in the backseat and Bella in the front. Laid across my legs she wanted me to sing. "Sing me a song, Momma!" So I sang. I sang, Silent Night, Holy Night, All is calm, All is bright.....over and over again until her little eyes locked tightly asleep and her breath raised her body up and down on my leg.</div>
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I could see those partaking in the Lord's supper walking back and forth to the table with only the light of a candle and I could hear the piano playing ever so lightly. </div>
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I thought about the birth of Jesus and how thankful I was that The Lord allowed us to be in the car for that moment. I needed it. He is Sovereign and all his plans are right. Did I want my little girl to be sick? Of course not, but I know that if I were in the service I would have been distracted by trying to keep the girls quiet that I would have missed that special time...time with Jesus. </div>
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It's so very easy to get wrapped up in the busyness of the season and not take a moment for a Silent Night. It is something I will never forget. A moment that I felt Jesus right next to me. A moment where the sounds of my children breathing brought comfort and thankfulness. A moment where I felt his presence and could relate to the words of a song I have sang my whole life at Christmas. <i>Silent Night. </i>I will never sing that song the same...and I never want to miss an opportunity to experience <i>Him</i> because I don't stop and have a <i>silent moment. </i> </div>
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Life is ever so constant. Flashing by so quickly. My prayer this year is that I refocus my life on the things that matter. The things that matter to Him. Not live in a viral world, but live in my real life, right before me, god ordained world. Because I don't want to miss a moment with the <i>Savior of the World..</i>..</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-91834748215892348462013-12-05T05:39:00.001-08:002013-12-05T05:50:23.534-08:00Thanksgiving Day<div style="text-align: center;">
Matt and I started ourThanksgiving morning out by doing the Turkey Run 10k. It was soooo cold, but so fun. It was a great start to a wonderful day!</div>
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I love seeing the Greatness of God through the sunrise and sunsets of each day! </div>
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Brrr...</div>
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Exactly...and all the other 50 things I'm about to stuff my face with!;)</div>
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On our way! Bright-eyed and bushy-taled:)</div>
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We decided we would clean up for the day! I like him..a lot! One of the million reasons I am thankful each and every day. Life with Matt is more than I could have dreamed and I am blessed to be by his side day in and day out.</div>
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I sure do love my tender hearted, soft spirited little girl. </div>
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Oh these people. I love them so!</div>
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We ended the day with a nap of course! </div>
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What a great year we have had. The Lord has showered us with blessings. We are thankful that we were able to celebrate Thanksgiving with all of our families this year. It makes life a little more special!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-27999300725553548692013-11-13T07:40:00.001-08:002013-11-13T07:40:35.711-08:00Our Call<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail. Proverbs 19:21</b></i></div>
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God has used this verse over the past couple of years to walk us through this life. Let me just say, we have made many a plans..:) That's kind of who we are. What we love to do. Sit back and plan. Think about the future. Dream and hope. There is nothing wrong with dreaming and coming up with goals for you life. The problem occurs when we value our plans and our dreams and our wants and desires over the Lords will for our life. The end result will be disappointment. Every. Single. Time.</div>
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Our plan:</div>
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To sell our house and move to Lavaca. Build our forever home and settle our little family in the small town comforts of Lavaca, AR. Serve God to the best of our ability at FBC Lavaca where Matt grew up and the place that has been my church home for the past 12 years. </div>
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God's plan:</div>
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Us staying in Alma. Our house not selling. Bringing us to a place of contentment so that we could see beyond our plan and our desire in order to see His <i>Greater </i>plan.</div>
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Calling Matt to Kibler Baptist Church to serve on Staff at a position God gifted him in for a <i><b>purpose</b></i>. His purpose. </div>
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As we have watched The Lord work over the past several months, at times it wasn't easy. I wish I could say we always understood God's plan and we never doubted what He was doing. That's not the case. There were times that we were often confused. We were anxious. We were frustrated. "Our" plan was not unfolding like we thought it would. "God, you know our desire to be in Lavaca is to serve you better!" But every time those thoughts crept in...or those words spilled out...God spoke. It was clear. Crystal clear. </div>
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He cleared the chaos out of our minds so we could hear from Him. </div>
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I have called you to serve me here. In Alma, AR. Where I placed you 6 years ago and where I have <i>kept</i> you. My plan is and has been right in front of you all along. </div>
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We can look back and see how obvious God has been throughout the past several years, and specifically the last year. We were able to see glimpse's of His plan- but only as our walls of desire began to fall. </div>
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We often allow our plan to fog over the reality of his clear plan.</div>
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Our plans could have never dreamed up a calling so great on our lives and for our family. We feel so incredibly honored and humbled that the Lord would choose to use Matt to serve along side Eric at <a href="http://www.kiblerbc.com/live/">KBC</a> as he leads <i>His</i> church and <i>His</i> amazing people. </div>
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All along, we have wanted nothing more than the Lord's will. Even in our days of planning out our future, we always claimed <i><b>James 4:15 Instead, you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will love and do this or that."</b></i></div>
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<i>So incredibly thankful His ways are not always ours and His timing is not always ours.</i></div>
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<i>Amazed that the Lord never gives up on me and doesn't allow me to settle for something far less that what he has for my life and for our family. </i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643378147944037012.post-21838717382854888942013-11-13T06:39:00.002-08:002013-11-13T06:39:37.362-08:00A week of fun!<div style="text-align: center;">
You might be in Branson when...you see lots of little Elves traveling together on a tour bus! Oh the site!!:)</div>
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They were having a grand ol time! </div>
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You can't possibly go to Branson without a stop at this place. It is just not an option!</div>
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uh hum...yes please!!</div>
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Oh and yes, I'll have some of that too:) </div>
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The<i> red hat ladies</i> paid us a visit too!:) </div>
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Breakfast of Champions right there. I DID pair it with oatmeal <strike>covered with brown sugar and butter and pecans </strike>so I just pretended it was my toast! </div>
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Saturday I got to spend the day with this sweetie pie! Love her to the moon and back and it just so happens she gets to join my family in January! Oh Happy day! We did a little wedding dress shopping. She is going to be a beautiful bride!</div>
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Her beauty radiates from the inside out. </div>
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