We were piled in the bed this morning finishing school and working on the computer. I had gotten up to grab something from the other room. When I returned she was breathless, head buried into my pillow and unable to speak. I quickly ask my baby girl what was wrong when she said that my best friend had text me. Unable to understand I read the text which told of a mutual friend's husband passing away this morning.
We have waited for this call. The suffering and treatments have continued for years. As true fighting fashion though the bounce back would happen and life would continue. A few weeks ago though my friend shared her husband had fallen and had to be put in a nursing home for recovery. She hinted that he might not come home and to pray for the girls.
Their baby and mine have been friends since preschool. We have not missed birthday parties and attended church camp together every year. I feel that I have been trying to prepare my little girl for the moment her friend's Dad would no longer live on this earth forever, but when that text came I realized how unprepared we were.
As I held my baby and prayed for our friends, my mind flooded back to the day that numbness overcame me. I had just returned from a wonderful weekend introducing my boyfriend to my family. He and I had taken the long way back to college stopping by to visit old family friends of his. I distinctly remember us commenting on the oddness of the sky as we drove the 2 1/2 hours across the Delta towards Starkville.
We arrived home and I ran inside with my basket of clean laundry that I dropped on the floor so I could call to report my safe arrival to Mama (my usual post drive home call- oh the days before the cell phone that is everywhere with you). I dialed my home and my Mama's best friend answered the phone. This was odd because she might be at our home, but didn't really answer our phone. Mama spoke and the numbing words fell all over me. "Your Dad had a heart attack"-Mama "He is going to be fine, right???"-Me "No Sweetie, He didn't make it."
Those words spoken to me by my Mother 23 years ago changed my whole life. I was 20 years old and I know the things that I have missed and longed for as a daughter without an earthly Father. My daughter's friend is 11 and her sister 15. How my heart breaks for them tonight as I recall them being picked up at school to be told their Dad is no longer living.
I hugged both girls today. I shared that I understood it hurt. I told them we could get together and talk. I would listen because even though I don't have my Daddy (his heart broke) their Daddy was lost to the horribleness of cancer. Our stories are different, but we are daughters without Daddies tonight.
My prayer for these precious girls and my friend is that they feel the cradling of the arms of Jesus the ultimate Daddy. May they find comfort in friends and stories these next few days. And Mr. Chuck say "hi" to George Trippe-my Daddy.
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Monday, January 21, 2013
New Year & My ONE Word
I haven't blogged since the Fall. So many things have taken place and the world is moving a warped speed. (I have a million different topics floating through my mind as I write this now.) I prayed over my selection, I dug through scriptures, and I looked at other's One Word 365. There are so many good words out there to pick from and I struggled to find my ONE.
In the past, my word has been obvious that it spoke to me. This year I chose my word and still questioned 17 days later was it my word or had I just settled. This week I think I have realized something- I have picked the right word.
My ONE WORD for 2013 is ......
Focused. See I feel scattered, disjointed, pulled, distracted and most of all not clearly FOCUSED. I am looking at a year of decision-Some for me, some that my children will make, and some with Philip. As apart of a group study & church challenge, I was entering January with a food fast of sorts ( 7, a mutiny against excess by Jen Hatmaker). I thought this is the perfect storm to become FOCUSED. Even as I began my journey into 2013, I have struggled by not feeling I chose the right word. I have finally decided this week that I am on target.
I have bounced from thing to thing & thought to thought all week. I am beginning to feel like a ping pong ball. It hit me hard today- FOCUS! I am lacking focus.
So I decided to sit still, a write my thoughts. This will be a place where I can remind myself of my WORD. I believe the clearing of my body of yucky food & my thoughts from that food to God's call on my life is step one of the year of FOCUSED living!
In the past, my word has been obvious that it spoke to me. This year I chose my word and still questioned 17 days later was it my word or had I just settled. This week I think I have realized something- I have picked the right word.
My ONE WORD for 2013 is ......
Focused. See I feel scattered, disjointed, pulled, distracted and most of all not clearly FOCUSED. I am looking at a year of decision-Some for me, some that my children will make, and some with Philip. As apart of a group study & church challenge, I was entering January with a food fast of sorts ( 7, a mutiny against excess by Jen Hatmaker). I thought this is the perfect storm to become FOCUSED. Even as I began my journey into 2013, I have struggled by not feeling I chose the right word. I have finally decided this week that I am on target.
I have bounced from thing to thing & thought to thought all week. I am beginning to feel like a ping pong ball. It hit me hard today- FOCUS! I am lacking focus.
So I decided to sit still, a write my thoughts. This will be a place where I can remind myself of my WORD. I believe the clearing of my body of yucky food & my thoughts from that food to God's call on my life is step one of the year of FOCUSED living!
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Joy in Sharing...and a NEW product!
The youngest in the family is usually known for getting their fair share of hand-me downs. Not that I know this fact for myself as I am the lucky oldest, but I have heard the rumors. When we found ourselves in graduate school with baby daughters just 13 months apart, we survived by using and re-using the girls clothes.
As the girls got older, our second daughter took full advantage of "sharing" while begging for new outfits. I said often that she always had the most clothes because she truly hated hand-me-downs. (Today she is my "fashion-ista" that we all ask for advice as we shop and dress).
Our third child arrived and he wouldn't have looked great in pink, floral and bowed outfits so I packed those goodies up and gave them to friends who had just adopted a daughter. Our caboose had arrived so it was safe to pass along our wealth of frilly frocks.
Two years pass and our precious tribe of three would be greeted by a new baby sister-SURPRISE! Those sweet friends whom we loaned all of our girl clothes to had passed them on to another friend. Before we knew it, bags of clothes found their way back to our doorstep.
One would think that the baby would be spoiled and never accept such re worn attire, but our baby girl loves to find bags on her door step. It would become like Christmas morning when "her" bags arrived. She would try on every item as if it were her own personal shopping spree at Macy's.
As I reflect on her eagerness to open bags of worn, used and sometimes stained clothes then put them on to wear with pride, I think of Jesus. Isn't that what He does for us?
He takes the worn - used- sometimes stained- puts it on Himself and is so proud to display us for all to see. We are made new. We are REDEEMED by His precious blood.
DaySpring has created this great new line of products to remind us of our Redeemer-Jesus. The Redeemed products offer many items that communicate Christ redemptive love for us. Check them out here.
I received products by DaySpring to review for this post. Thanks DaySpring for helping me spread the word of God's redemptive love.
As the girls got older, our second daughter took full advantage of "sharing" while begging for new outfits. I said often that she always had the most clothes because she truly hated hand-me-downs. (Today she is my "fashion-ista" that we all ask for advice as we shop and dress).
Our third child arrived and he wouldn't have looked great in pink, floral and bowed outfits so I packed those goodies up and gave them to friends who had just adopted a daughter. Our caboose had arrived so it was safe to pass along our wealth of frilly frocks.
Two years pass and our precious tribe of three would be greeted by a new baby sister-SURPRISE! Those sweet friends whom we loaned all of our girl clothes to had passed them on to another friend. Before we knew it, bags of clothes found their way back to our doorstep.
One would think that the baby would be spoiled and never accept such re worn attire, but our baby girl loves to find bags on her door step. It would become like Christmas morning when "her" bags arrived. She would try on every item as if it were her own personal shopping spree at Macy's.
As I reflect on her eagerness to open bags of worn, used and sometimes stained clothes then put them on to wear with pride, I think of Jesus. Isn't that what He does for us?
He takes the worn - used- sometimes stained- puts it on Himself and is so proud to display us for all to see. We are made new. We are REDEEMED by His precious blood.
DaySpring has created this great new line of products to remind us of our Redeemer-Jesus. The Redeemed products offer many items that communicate Christ redemptive love for us. Check them out here.
I received products by DaySpring to review for this post. Thanks DaySpring for helping me spread the word of God's redemptive love.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
My Brave Little Girl
I have four beautiful children, and they each make me proud. We have been blessed beyond belief with kind-hearted, Jesus loving, and beautiful children. (I am bragging-a Mother's right!)
It is so hard to believe that our oldest is 17 TODAY. This shy little girl has grown into a beautiful and strong young woman. She serves in church, in our community, she is an athlete and a good student. She is driven to be the best at whatever she is involved.
This girl in her early days was shy and fear-filled. It is amazing to see what God has done through her. I know that her life is still just getting started, and He has more things to do through her.
When she was little, she loved to dress-up. She and her sister would put on plays on our hearth where they sang at the top of their lungs. Both girls, when in public would hide behind me and stay as close as possible.
Some days though, this shy little girl would leap off of the chair and proclaim "Marykathaleena!" We always have joked when she called herself that name she was her "brave self".
Now that MK is older there are few days I see a shy, fear-ful girl. Lately, we see her shining her light for the Lord so brightly. Just the other night I witnessed by 16 year old daughter leap forward screaming-"Marykathaleena".
Her good friend encouraged her to participate in a school Parade of Beauties. Now my girl is beautiful, but she isn't normally one to put on a formal dress and waltz across a stage waving. Take a look at these pictures and you too will hear her use her brave voice.....
By the way, she was MOST BEAUTIFUL in the eyes of family and friends!
Happy 17th Birthday Mary Katherine!
It is so hard to believe that our oldest is 17 TODAY. This shy little girl has grown into a beautiful and strong young woman. She serves in church, in our community, she is an athlete and a good student. She is driven to be the best at whatever she is involved.
This girl in her early days was shy and fear-filled. It is amazing to see what God has done through her. I know that her life is still just getting started, and He has more things to do through her.
When she was little, she loved to dress-up. She and her sister would put on plays on our hearth where they sang at the top of their lungs. Both girls, when in public would hide behind me and stay as close as possible.
Some days though, this shy little girl would leap off of the chair and proclaim "Marykathaleena!" We always have joked when she called herself that name she was her "brave self".
Now that MK is older there are few days I see a shy, fear-ful girl. Lately, we see her shining her light for the Lord so brightly. Just the other night I witnessed by 16 year old daughter leap forward screaming-"Marykathaleena".
By the way, she was MOST BEAUTIFUL in the eyes of family and friends!
Happy 17th Birthday Mary Katherine!Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Family MIssion & A Giveaway!
I am a Christian Educator by trade. (you know in those days before I was blessed to be able to stay home with our children) My husband is a nurse who continued his education as a Nurse Practitioner so that I could come home. The opportunity finally arrived after almost a decade of working, I went to tell our friend and my boss. His response was- "You won't be able to do this long. I expect you to be back in ministry in a couple of years."
At the time, we had 2 children- 13 months apart-I remember telling him that I would be in ministry, but in my home. What God had in store, I had no idea. We now have 4 children, and we are 13 years from that conversation.
With two high school daughters, I stand by the fact that I'm in ministry at home. Our main goal as a family has been to raise children who love the Lord and share that love with others.
When the kids were little we owned every DVD, cassette, and CD that taught Bible verses and Christian values. I read more books that inspired Godly conversation. I was so determined to teach God's love.
Now those babies are growing, I see them beginning to make their own decisions and choices. I know that foundation is set, but I still think the example of reminding them whose and who they are is important. Around our house I have placed Bible verses, crosses and other things to show them (and others) what we believe.
A regular quote our Pastor uses has been from St. Francis of Assisi- "Preach the gospel everywhere and if necessary use words." Our children have grown up hearing this said weekly in our church. The older girls and I got the opportunity this past spring break to travel with our youth group to Nicaragua. While on the mission trip, we got to live out what we have said was our family theme.
A wonderful way to share our family theme is through the products that DaySpring offers. I have purchased many of the items for gifts, but I also chose to show our mission through these products. This month DaySpring is offering several of items like this one at a discount.
I also am able to offer a giveaway from DaySpring. Please leave a comment below. Also if you follow me on Twitter (@sallieding). You can leave a second comment.
(I am writing this review on the DaySpring product, under my own opinion. I have not been paid by DaySpring for this comment.)
At the time, we had 2 children- 13 months apart-I remember telling him that I would be in ministry, but in my home. What God had in store, I had no idea. We now have 4 children, and we are 13 years from that conversation.
With two high school daughters, I stand by the fact that I'm in ministry at home. Our main goal as a family has been to raise children who love the Lord and share that love with others.
When the kids were little we owned every DVD, cassette, and CD that taught Bible verses and Christian values. I read more books that inspired Godly conversation. I was so determined to teach God's love.
Now those babies are growing, I see them beginning to make their own decisions and choices. I know that foundation is set, but I still think the example of reminding them whose and who they are is important. Around our house I have placed Bible verses, crosses and other things to show them (and others) what we believe.
A regular quote our Pastor uses has been from St. Francis of Assisi- "Preach the gospel everywhere and if necessary use words." Our children have grown up hearing this said weekly in our church. The older girls and I got the opportunity this past spring break to travel with our youth group to Nicaragua. While on the mission trip, we got to live out what we have said was our family theme.
A wonderful way to share our family theme is through the products that DaySpring offers. I have purchased many of the items for gifts, but I also chose to show our mission through these products. This month DaySpring is offering several of items like this one at a discount.
I also am able to offer a giveaway from DaySpring. Please leave a comment below. Also if you follow me on Twitter (@sallieding). You can leave a second comment.
(I am writing this review on the DaySpring product, under my own opinion. I have not been paid by DaySpring for this comment.)
Monday, May 9, 2011
Mother's Day Blessings
Family
Baseball
Coke 10 KGreen Festival
40th Annual Gum Tree Festival
Friends
Sweet Tea
D'Casa
Movies- AT HOME
Heating Pad
Cards
Gifts
Worship
Cooking Together
Music
Nest Painting
Remembering Mother's and Grandmother's
Honoring Mother's
 |
| Philip and my Mama |
A weekend of FAMILY and LOVE....
THANK YOU!
Gifts List #686-734
a restful day
a time of reflection
a deer crossing the raod-not at all concerned about me
MK confidence about showchoir tryouts
kids who count down days until summer
Wynn practicing piano without being asked
Sarah's honesty about her feelings
Bible reading that teaches
a morning walk that reminds me it is Spring
baby ducklings
yoga that helps my body heal
help for a family member in need
a warm shower
ducklings swimming with their Mom
music that lifts the soul
time in Bible study with a friend
seeing kids run and build confidence
schedules that work themselves out
a boy's confidence in a sport that isn't his best
girls singing songs that remind me of my high school choir days
a child who makes showchoir-seeing the excitement on her face
getting to bake for a single mom
sending cards to Mom's in my life who need encouragement
time at baseball games with family
seeing Wynn play with a friend who makes her laugh and smile
a talented husband who can and will help decorate cakes
time to walk through green festival
celebrating the boys successful run-58.01
meeting an old friend who I admire
girls who make lunch
a good talk with MK
Wynn's day with her friend
time with Trippe and MK
seeing friends at Gum Tree
sweet tea on a hot day
cool breezes when you are hot
mexican with the family
laughter at dinner
a long journey that leads to a relaxing night at home
early restoring rest
my favorite omlet for breakfast
a slower, quiter morning
thoughtful, hand-made and picked - out cards
a sermon that challenges me to "let-go & let God"
cooking lunch with Philip
the afternoon with my family at Gum Tree
the kids excited to get me a gift of art
Trippe's creative writing being honored
a little girl who wants to go to night church
an after dinner treat
family traditions
family laughter
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
One of the Hardest Jobs
One of the hardest jobs has been to parent. I worked outside the home for several years. By far this is the toughest and most rewarding job that I've had. I actually spend time and money trying to learn how to be a more effective parent. I look at it, and realize how far short I fail. I look back to days of babies and young children and see where I missed out. I was not the best Mom or the funnest. No excuses, but I think those were some of fibromyalgia's early days in my life. I feel like I was growing in my faith and not quite as prepared as I thought. Are we ever totally prepared?
The most challenging to date has been parenting teenagers. It flat out hurts at times. Their words and attitudes cut you so deep. It takes away all you've been trying to accomplish for those 13 plus years.Sometimes I look up and wonder where I've gone wrong. I realize that parenting good kids (that is what we have) is so HARD. I can't fathom parenting bad ones.
The only thing that I can say is it draws me to my knees. I am at the foot of the Cross begging constantly for my children.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Unplanned Frienship
Last year, my pastor asked for volunteers from a weekly men's leadership group. This wasn't really then men he was asking to help, but their wives. My dear, sweet husband eagerly heard the request and thought maybe I would love to volunteer. The job was mentoring a women in our church. I felt so unqualified. (no don't go telling me about God's gifts,and all that-my husband did already). I quickly told him never to volunteer my name again.
I then began to pray and consult wise counsel. (a woman in another church community that mentors women). I felt so out of touch with this woman. Our connection was we knew one another from childhood. We were raised differently, we lived differently and I just assumed that I would never have a thing in common with her. (not a better than...just a different) Before I even prayed much about this, this woman called. See that is her personality...Do it! We planned lunch. I prayed and called my wise friend. Both of these were leading me to pursue this relationship. Our lunch came and we enjoyed each other so that we planned another lunch.
It is almost a year and a half later, I should be getting dressed because it is time for lunch with my mentoring friend. See God's plan is so much bigger than we can even realize. My new friend is very different from me, but also we are very much a like. We are both hungering for a deeper relationship with God. We both long to have families who love Him more. What a blessing!
Our families have even become closer. Her children are younger than ours, but we enjoy one anothers company. They have become like family. Our Daddy's were best friends; though mine has gone on to Heaven, I realize what God began years ago is still working out in our lives.
I am so grateful for a God who sees beyond my finite mind. A God who knows me better than I know myself. A God who was, who is and who is yet to be! A God who longs to draw us toward Himself through friendship. Thank you, God, for unplanned friendship!
*quietness of Mondays
* rain that cancels one activity so less running
*beauty of flowers blooming
*quiet time with God
*girls who seek help and the opportunity to provide it
*kids who voice their opinions
*Godly Principals
*family dinner at home
*new mulch and flowers
*lunch with a new friend who encourages
* opportunity to help kids who need it
*new Bible study with old friends
*opportunity to help my sister
*time with niece and nephew
*a husband who will drive after work to get my niece and nephew
*new tires
*brother-in-law whose heart is OK
*lunch with Wynn and cousins
*opportunity to pour love and Jesus into niece and nephew
*time at the park
*husband who takes kids for fun-indoor swimming
*a day with friends and kids outside
*time for us while Dad is working- that is distracted and busy
*returning niece and nephew safely
* time with kids watching basketball
* sleeping late
*time alone with Philip
*hope in message at church
*kids enjoying time outside with each other
*spring
*small group and lessons that make us think and grow
*Drs. who go the extra mile when they don't have to
I then began to pray and consult wise counsel. (a woman in another church community that mentors women). I felt so out of touch with this woman. Our connection was we knew one another from childhood. We were raised differently, we lived differently and I just assumed that I would never have a thing in common with her. (not a better than...just a different) Before I even prayed much about this, this woman called. See that is her personality...Do it! We planned lunch. I prayed and called my wise friend. Both of these were leading me to pursue this relationship. Our lunch came and we enjoyed each other so that we planned another lunch.
It is almost a year and a half later, I should be getting dressed because it is time for lunch with my mentoring friend. See God's plan is so much bigger than we can even realize. My new friend is very different from me, but also we are very much a like. We are both hungering for a deeper relationship with God. We both long to have families who love Him more. What a blessing!
Our families have even become closer. Her children are younger than ours, but we enjoy one anothers company. They have become like family. Our Daddy's were best friends; though mine has gone on to Heaven, I realize what God began years ago is still working out in our lives.
I am so grateful for a God who sees beyond my finite mind. A God who knows me better than I know myself. A God who was, who is and who is yet to be! A God who longs to draw us toward Himself through friendship. Thank you, God, for unplanned friendship!
Gifts List # 466-499
*joy of folding/washing clothes for family*quietness of Mondays
* rain that cancels one activity so less running
*beauty of flowers blooming
*quiet time with God
*girls who seek help and the opportunity to provide it
*kids who voice their opinions
*Godly Principals
*family dinner at home
*new mulch and flowers
*lunch with a new friend who encourages
* opportunity to help kids who need it
*new Bible study with old friends
*opportunity to help my sister
*time with niece and nephew
*a husband who will drive after work to get my niece and nephew
*new tires
*brother-in-law whose heart is OK
*lunch with Wynn and cousins
*opportunity to pour love and Jesus into niece and nephew
*time at the park
*husband who takes kids for fun-indoor swimming
*a day with friends and kids outside
*time for us while Dad is working- that is distracted and busy
*returning niece and nephew safely
* time with kids watching basketball
* sleeping late
*time alone with Philip
*hope in message at church
*kids enjoying time outside with each other
*spring
*small group and lessons that make us think and grow
*Drs. who go the extra mile when they don't have to
Friday, March 25, 2011
Life Was Easier When...
It seems like just yesterday that Mary Katherine and Sarah were 1 and 2. I thought life was hard with girls 13 months apart. I'm realizing now 15 years later that it was easier. We celebrated all those years ago each step, word, and accomplishment. Don't get me wrong, we still celebrate, but it seems harder.
Today I took Sarah for her driving permit test. (she passed!) Mary Katherine has officially been on the road (ALONE) for a month. I said out loud today that this is just hard. They are growing up so fast. I don't really encourage the accomplishments anymore. As a mother, you must know what I mean. I do celebrate my children (all 4), but seriously, a drivers license leads to driving places...driving leads to junior and sophomore years....which leads to dating...graduating...college. See it is so hard to celebrate the accomplishments. They are harder to face.
I remember when they were small and a certain husband (who will remain unnamed to protect his manhood-my favorite part about him), would cry as they reached a milestone. I was the tough one. I announced that it was our job to raise them and send them out. Well, roles are reversing. I'm kicking and screaming with all of this. Stop the train...it is moving too fast. I really do think that life was much easier back when I could place them in the floor and there they stayed until I returned.
Today I took Sarah for her driving permit test. (she passed!) Mary Katherine has officially been on the road (ALONE) for a month. I said out loud today that this is just hard. They are growing up so fast. I don't really encourage the accomplishments anymore. As a mother, you must know what I mean. I do celebrate my children (all 4), but seriously, a drivers license leads to driving places...driving leads to junior and sophomore years....which leads to dating...graduating...college. See it is so hard to celebrate the accomplishments. They are harder to face.
I remember when they were small and a certain husband (who will remain unnamed to protect his manhood-my favorite part about him), would cry as they reached a milestone. I was the tough one. I announced that it was our job to raise them and send them out. Well, roles are reversing. I'm kicking and screaming with all of this. Stop the train...it is moving too fast. I really do think that life was much easier back when I could place them in the floor and there they stayed until I returned.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Fresh Water
This journey to fresh water began four years ago. Missionaries from our church Rick and Mary Ervin had just left our church to move to Nicaragua. At age 5 each of our children had been taught through church by Rick and Mary. The year they left it was time to teach Wynn so she had a heart for them.
Each night at dinner, she began to pray for them ( and still does). Soon after they had left for Nicaragua, Wynn began to pray for fresh water. Her prayer at dinner was..."Dear Lord, Thank you for today. Thank you for our food. Be with Rick and Mary. And for fresh water." She prayed for what other concerns might come to her. Each day the prayer for fresh water.
Rick and Mary returned home for a visit. I asked her about the water situation, and she said the water wasn't good unless filtered. I was overwhelmed to think that God had placed a need in her heart for something that others-people that she didn't even know. For goodness sake, this baby was 5.
Fast forward 4 years, our dinner time prayer still consist of ...thanks for the day, the food, blessings on Rick and Mary and for fresh water. Some nights it seems that dinner might get cold based on the needs she has heard about all day (friends who are adopting, or sick, etc).
Back in the Fall, plans for a Spring Break mission trip to Nicaragua began to surface. Mary Katherine and Sarah wanted to go. I had been praying and felt God place this on my heart to go as well. We planned and prayed. The time for our journey approached ....
This week was Spring Break. Mary Katherine, Sarah and I traveled with some of our youth to La Dalia, Nicaragua. Our job was to work in a rehab facility meeting with the children and women. Our eyes were opened to a whole new world. One that is much different than ours. This was a journey to fresh water.
The people we encountered do not know about the need for fresh water. They drink, bathe, cook with water that is contaminated. The people we saw in the clinic were treated for diseases from parasites. The bathroom at the rehab was an outhouse.
One night in our group sharing I realized ...fresh water. I had seen what my child had prayed for. I had lived for a week in a place where I made sure I had bottled water for drinking and brushing my teeth. I wrote in my 1000 gifts list ...fresh water. The reality of it all was overwhelming. My journey to this fresh water had begun four years before with a five year old girl whom the Lord speaks to. I am truly grateful for fresh water and the people of Nicaragua. I am also grateful for a little girl whom the Lord uses to teach me.
Gifts # 296-429 ( a long list)
* sound of gentle rain on the window
* memories of a Grandmother on her birthday
*a morning walk in the cool breeze
* sunshine that overcomes the darkest of days
* a town of dead trees coming to life with white pear blooms
* a daughter's diligent work paying off in her ACT score
* freckled faced boys who still find joy in Nerf guns
* friends who in their grief help ones find healing
* kids laughter first thing in the morning
* seeing tiny arms and legs wiggle on an ultrasound screen
*seeing joy on the face of an expectant mom as she sees her baby for the first time
* sharing in good news with friends
* a gift that will make the birthday boy smile
* the almost 11 year old who still excitedly plans every detail of the party
* news from the doctor that makes you stop and think - realizing God is in charge
* grateful for tears that finally come out
* pink and purple sunset outside my dinnertime window
* little girls who make Philip and I smile
* a wonderful family
* baking with my son who ask lots of questions
* 42 years of life
* Trippe's 11 years of life
* helpful teenagers
* gaining of more time to get it all done
* medication that can correct what bad genes might could do- extension of life
* many well wishes from friends
* lunch with a confident 11 year old birthday boy
* pay day
* extra time to get it all done
* time of renewal
* laughter with friends
* a patient man
* new wisdom about a new culture
* laughter of kids and grandmother
* news of new babies
* friends who help you continue to celebrate birthdays
* friends who share a heart for missions
* a great day to worship
* a fun boys birthday party
* great discussion at small group
* coffee and blankets on cold mornings
* wedding plans for a patient, deserving young lady
* a quiet day at home
* financial commitments to our mission trip
* watching ducks sleep so oddly
* friends who share burdens
* naps of refreshing
* warmth of a blanket
* your word that brings refreshment
*the birth of our Sarah- her joyful 15 years of life
* seeing teen friends laugh and enjoy themselves
* a night free of cooking
* hearing a girl be excited about her plans with her Dad for Spring Break
* a husband who lives life and loves it
* after a big rain seeing nature nurture itself
* quiet time alone with God
* a day to find order and cleanliness
* videos that show my kids a grandfather they never knew
* friends who support and pray for you
* smells of a clean house
* energy to clean and wash
* the right mind to write notes of thanks and encouragement
* teachers who love to help children learn
* the tradition of the birthday banner and cards on the mantel
* Japan placed in the heart of a friend before a natural disaster
* encouragement from a friend about mission talk
* supportive husband who has a heart for missions
* last day of classes before spring break
* the sun and breeze that makes it feel like spring break is beginning
* smell of crisp, new dollar bills
* Philip getting off work early today
* hugs from little girls who will miss their Mama
* quiet time to read and prepare
* suitcases that zip
* girls excited to spend spring break on a mission trip
* getting to wake up and serve
* watching the faces of my girl who have never traveled by airplane
* like-minded mothers
* well wishes of airline workers- "praise Jesus"
* movies on airplanes that remind me of the 2 kids at home
* notes from a Mother who wants to encourage
* husbands songs on playlist to remind me of us
* tears from a little girl who aches for the country that I'm headed too
* a good nights sleep
* waking up to new sounds of birds and roosters
*a day talking with women who share hurt, pain, struggles and a love for Jesus
* understanding a language I can't speak
* seeing God move in heart of people when I can't understand their words
* helping the sick
* seeing our youth see God in a new way
*seeing beautiful mountains
*songs of praise in any language
* smiles of children who have so little
* delicious meal
* clean water
* Wynn's heart for praying for this country as they need her answers
* seeing Jesus in the faces of the Nicaraguan people
* the children who joyfully greet us each day
* a man who gets relief from a bad tooth
* a doctor/dad who loves Jesus and his kids enough to share them
*rain that would cool us
* time to laugh with kids who otherwise wouldn't interact
* quiet time to pull my thoughts together
* a passionate ending worship
* time to help others in the clinic
* conversation about ministry with Mary
* clean bathrooms and paper at home
* seeing kids get teh purpose of why we were there
* seeing MK and SG making a connection with people
* a bus ride without being sick
* a day of shopping in the market with my girls
* translators who seem to let us ask as many questions as we wanted
*a good talk with a new found friend
* a bed to myself
* girls who follow the rules -respect the leader
* hot shower
* seeing the passion on a college students face about missions
* pizza for dinner
* new friendships with translators
* a home with electricity that works
* the beautiful lush resort
* hot breakfast
* warm sunshine
* safe exit from the area
* electricity that stays on
* laughter with friends
* Rick and Mary's passion
* getting back up the mountain from the waterfall
* making it on a mission trip when my body was so tired
* being home
* my family
* time to rest
* a quick nap
* first day of spring
* a husband who makes life fun for our kids
Each night at dinner, she began to pray for them ( and still does). Soon after they had left for Nicaragua, Wynn began to pray for fresh water. Her prayer at dinner was..."Dear Lord, Thank you for today. Thank you for our food. Be with Rick and Mary. And for fresh water." She prayed for what other concerns might come to her. Each day the prayer for fresh water.
Rick and Mary returned home for a visit. I asked her about the water situation, and she said the water wasn't good unless filtered. I was overwhelmed to think that God had placed a need in her heart for something that others-people that she didn't even know. For goodness sake, this baby was 5.
Fast forward 4 years, our dinner time prayer still consist of ...thanks for the day, the food, blessings on Rick and Mary and for fresh water. Some nights it seems that dinner might get cold based on the needs she has heard about all day (friends who are adopting, or sick, etc).
Back in the Fall, plans for a Spring Break mission trip to Nicaragua began to surface. Mary Katherine and Sarah wanted to go. I had been praying and felt God place this on my heart to go as well. We planned and prayed. The time for our journey approached ....
This week was Spring Break. Mary Katherine, Sarah and I traveled with some of our youth to La Dalia, Nicaragua. Our job was to work in a rehab facility meeting with the children and women. Our eyes were opened to a whole new world. One that is much different than ours. This was a journey to fresh water.
The people we encountered do not know about the need for fresh water. They drink, bathe, cook with water that is contaminated. The people we saw in the clinic were treated for diseases from parasites. The bathroom at the rehab was an outhouse.
One night in our group sharing I realized ...fresh water. I had seen what my child had prayed for. I had lived for a week in a place where I made sure I had bottled water for drinking and brushing my teeth. I wrote in my 1000 gifts list ...fresh water. The reality of it all was overwhelming. My journey to this fresh water had begun four years before with a five year old girl whom the Lord speaks to. I am truly grateful for fresh water and the people of Nicaragua. I am also grateful for a little girl whom the Lord uses to teach me.
* sound of gentle rain on the window
* memories of a Grandmother on her birthday
*a morning walk in the cool breeze
* sunshine that overcomes the darkest of days
* a town of dead trees coming to life with white pear blooms
* a daughter's diligent work paying off in her ACT score
* freckled faced boys who still find joy in Nerf guns
* friends who in their grief help ones find healing
* kids laughter first thing in the morning
* seeing tiny arms and legs wiggle on an ultrasound screen
*seeing joy on the face of an expectant mom as she sees her baby for the first time
* sharing in good news with friends
* a gift that will make the birthday boy smile
* the almost 11 year old who still excitedly plans every detail of the party
* news from the doctor that makes you stop and think - realizing God is in charge
* grateful for tears that finally come out
* pink and purple sunset outside my dinnertime window
* little girls who make Philip and I smile
* a wonderful family
* baking with my son who ask lots of questions
* 42 years of life
* Trippe's 11 years of life
* helpful teenagers
* gaining of more time to get it all done
* medication that can correct what bad genes might could do- extension of life
* many well wishes from friends
* lunch with a confident 11 year old birthday boy
* pay day
* extra time to get it all done
* time of renewal
* laughter with friends
* a patient man
* new wisdom about a new culture
* laughter of kids and grandmother
* news of new babies
* friends who help you continue to celebrate birthdays
* friends who share a heart for missions
* a great day to worship
* a fun boys birthday party
* great discussion at small group
* coffee and blankets on cold mornings
* wedding plans for a patient, deserving young lady
* a quiet day at home
* financial commitments to our mission trip
* watching ducks sleep so oddly
* friends who share burdens
* naps of refreshing
* warmth of a blanket
* your word that brings refreshment
*the birth of our Sarah- her joyful 15 years of life
* seeing teen friends laugh and enjoy themselves
* a night free of cooking
* hearing a girl be excited about her plans with her Dad for Spring Break
* a husband who lives life and loves it
* after a big rain seeing nature nurture itself
* quiet time alone with God
* a day to find order and cleanliness
* videos that show my kids a grandfather they never knew
* friends who support and pray for you
* smells of a clean house
* energy to clean and wash
* the right mind to write notes of thanks and encouragement
* teachers who love to help children learn
* the tradition of the birthday banner and cards on the mantel
* Japan placed in the heart of a friend before a natural disaster
* encouragement from a friend about mission talk
* supportive husband who has a heart for missions
* last day of classes before spring break
* the sun and breeze that makes it feel like spring break is beginning
* smell of crisp, new dollar bills
* Philip getting off work early today
* hugs from little girls who will miss their Mama
* quiet time to read and prepare
* suitcases that zip
* girls excited to spend spring break on a mission trip
* getting to wake up and serve
* watching the faces of my girl who have never traveled by airplane
* like-minded mothers
* well wishes of airline workers- "praise Jesus"
* movies on airplanes that remind me of the 2 kids at home
* notes from a Mother who wants to encourage
* husbands songs on playlist to remind me of us
* tears from a little girl who aches for the country that I'm headed too
* a good nights sleep
* waking up to new sounds of birds and roosters
*a day talking with women who share hurt, pain, struggles and a love for Jesus
* understanding a language I can't speak
* seeing God move in heart of people when I can't understand their words
* helping the sick
* seeing our youth see God in a new way
*seeing beautiful mountains
*songs of praise in any language
* smiles of children who have so little
* delicious meal
* clean water
* Wynn's heart for praying for this country as they need her answers
* seeing Jesus in the faces of the Nicaraguan people
* the children who joyfully greet us each day
* a man who gets relief from a bad tooth
* a doctor/dad who loves Jesus and his kids enough to share them
*rain that would cool us
* time to laugh with kids who otherwise wouldn't interact
* quiet time to pull my thoughts together
* a passionate ending worship
* time to help others in the clinic
* conversation about ministry with Mary
* clean bathrooms and paper at home
* seeing kids get teh purpose of why we were there
* seeing MK and SG making a connection with people
* a bus ride without being sick
* a day of shopping in the market with my girls
* translators who seem to let us ask as many questions as we wanted
*a good talk with a new found friend
* a bed to myself
* girls who follow the rules -respect the leader
* hot shower
* seeing the passion on a college students face about missions
* pizza for dinner
* new friendships with translators
* a home with electricity that works
* the beautiful lush resort
* hot breakfast
* warm sunshine
* safe exit from the area
* electricity that stays on
* laughter with friends
* Rick and Mary's passion
* getting back up the mountain from the waterfall
* making it on a mission trip when my body was so tired
* being home
* my family
* time to rest
* a quick nap
* first day of spring
* a husband who makes life fun for our kids
Monday, February 14, 2011
A Day of Love
Today is Valentine's Day. Philip and I never have made a big deal of this day. Partly because of finances, but mostly because we've both felt that we should celebrate our love all year. My hubby is a sweet romantic of a man at times. I've gotten flowers when I got a new job-when I had a new baby (a large new job)-when he knew I'd had a bad day. I have even been know to receive flowers on Valentine's Day. This day I received my favorite gift....a hand-written note of 10 reasons he loves me. My man really knows me well. I am blessed!
One thing that we have been certain to do since our children were born was take Valentine's Day to celebrate God's love for them. We have left a card or a treat at their spot at the breakfast table. We want the kids to know how much we love them and how much God loves them. Today I gave homemade valentines with a devotion book or book about being who God has called you to be.
We are very thankful that He has blessed us with four children to love! So...Happy Valentine's Day to my precious husband and four wonderful children....I LOVE YOU!
Today's love list from God to me....
# 154-#199
-how sick kids let you love on them no matter how old they are
-time with one child to share for the day
-coffee to warm the inside when the outside is so cold
-opportunities to share with a child what God just taught me-He shows me so I can show them
-the long eye lashes of a freckled faced, blue-eyed boy
-birthdays for children that just keep celebrating
-doctors who educate
-friends who call to give encouragement
-opportunity for date night
-kids who are honored for their accomplishments
- friends who support your efforts in missions
-time with family-enjoying our common favorite thing
-watching snow fall
-afternoon naps
-60% days at school
-family night at basketball
-seeing extended family
-a home team win
-a careful, wise husband
-a patient husband
-the snow covered ground
-laughter of family
-kids who listen
-clean clothes
-customer service you can communicate with
-women who write words that make you think
-teachers who listen to your child
-new revelations about God's word
-time for home improvements
-a beautiful, sunny day
-pound cake with strawberries
-little girls who get excited about boxes from the attic
-a little girls joyful reminder to praise the Lord
-a warm, sunny day
-a good nights sleep
-prayer shared with friends
-being on the same page with Philip
-watching young friends grow through their struggle
-alarms that wake even if later than expected
-precious notes of love from my husband-who really knows me
-a day to celebrate God's love over our children
-a walk with God's word
-a washing machine that is actually washing
-the smell of a "love" cake baking for after school
-a faithful friend who knows your routine
One thing that we have been certain to do since our children were born was take Valentine's Day to celebrate God's love for them. We have left a card or a treat at their spot at the breakfast table. We want the kids to know how much we love them and how much God loves them. Today I gave homemade valentines with a devotion book or book about being who God has called you to be.
We are very thankful that He has blessed us with four children to love! So...Happy Valentine's Day to my precious husband and four wonderful children....I LOVE YOU!
Today's love list from God to me....
-how sick kids let you love on them no matter how old they are
-time with one child to share for the day
-coffee to warm the inside when the outside is so cold
-opportunities to share with a child what God just taught me-He shows me so I can show them
-the long eye lashes of a freckled faced, blue-eyed boy
-birthdays for children that just keep celebrating
-doctors who educate
-friends who call to give encouragement
-opportunity for date night
-kids who are honored for their accomplishments
- friends who support your efforts in missions
-time with family-enjoying our common favorite thing
-watching snow fall
-afternoon naps
-60% days at school
-family night at basketball
-seeing extended family
-a home team win
-a careful, wise husband
-a patient husband
-the snow covered ground
-laughter of family
-kids who listen
-clean clothes
-customer service you can communicate with
-women who write words that make you think
-teachers who listen to your child
-new revelations about God's word
-time for home improvements
-a beautiful, sunny day
-pound cake with strawberries
-little girls who get excited about boxes from the attic
-a little girls joyful reminder to praise the Lord
-a warm, sunny day
-a good nights sleep
-prayer shared with friends
-being on the same page with Philip
-watching young friends grow through their struggle
-alarms that wake even if later than expected
-precious notes of love from my husband-who really knows me
-a day to celebrate God's love over our children
-a walk with God's word
-a washing machine that is actually washing
-the smell of a "love" cake baking for after school
-a faithful friend who knows your routine
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Wynn's BIG day!
It is Wynn's 9th Birthday. She has waited so long for this day. Not only does she get to celebrate with friends and family at her party, but she gets to finally get her ears pierced (more on that part later.)!
Wynn had several friends and family for her Cooking Birthday Party. We made each guest a personalized apron. Wynn's friends were from her class this year, preschool friends, and church friends. The girls gathered, and we had them make a personal pizza. I had pre-made the dough and the girls had toppings to make the pizza just like they liked them. While the pizzas cooked, the girls added fruit a bowl to make a fruit salad (strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew). They also added different ingredients to make a morning smoothie. The girls enjoyed their smoothies while Mary Katherine lead them in games. Mary Katherine had different foods in a paper bag, she had the girls blindfolded choose a food then see what they tasted. The next game was letting the girls feed one another either yogurt or apple sauce. The catch was one girl (the eater) had her hands behind her back while the next girl (the feeder) sat behind her. This game was too funny! Trippe was the messiest recipient of apple sauce (which he hates).
The pizza was ready and the the girls enjoyed their pizza and fruit salad. The last thing for the girls to do were to ice their own cupcakes. They enjoyed adding icing and different colored sprinkles. It was finally time for Wynn to open presents. She is so blessed with sweet friends! We enjoyed a great birthday party.
Wynn's big day wasn't over post-party...she was headed to the mall to get her ears pierced. Wynn had called her Nana earlier in the week to join her. Nana had promised to get her ears pierced with Mary Katherine and Sarah ...each time she chickened out. Wynn was successful (and brave) ...she got her ears pierced first then Nana at 63 got her ears pierced for the first time. We were so proud of both girls!
We have two birthdays of our birthday season down with 3(2 parties) more to go! My how fast they grow and how quickly birthday season passes these days.
Wynn had several friends and family for her Cooking Birthday Party. We made each guest a personalized apron. Wynn's friends were from her class this year, preschool friends, and church friends. The girls gathered, and we had them make a personal pizza. I had pre-made the dough and the girls had toppings to make the pizza just like they liked them. While the pizzas cooked, the girls added fruit a bowl to make a fruit salad (strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew). They also added different ingredients to make a morning smoothie. The girls enjoyed their smoothies while Mary Katherine lead them in games. Mary Katherine had different foods in a paper bag, she had the girls blindfolded choose a food then see what they tasted. The next game was letting the girls feed one another either yogurt or apple sauce. The catch was one girl (the eater) had her hands behind her back while the next girl (the feeder) sat behind her. This game was too funny! Trippe was the messiest recipient of apple sauce (which he hates).
The pizza was ready and the the girls enjoyed their pizza and fruit salad. The last thing for the girls to do were to ice their own cupcakes. They enjoyed adding icing and different colored sprinkles. It was finally time for Wynn to open presents. She is so blessed with sweet friends! We enjoyed a great birthday party.
Wynn's big day wasn't over post-party...she was headed to the mall to get her ears pierced. Wynn had called her Nana earlier in the week to join her. Nana had promised to get her ears pierced with Mary Katherine and Sarah ...each time she chickened out. Wynn was successful (and brave) ...she got her ears pierced first then Nana at 63 got her ears pierced for the first time. We were so proud of both girls!
We have two birthdays of our birthday season down with 3
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Birthday Season Is Here
It has officially begun... our birthday season. I've called it this for the past 8 years because beginning January 24 we celebrate 5 birthdays in the next six weeks. I seems like we get one birthday planned and it is time for the next. We have always made a big deal of birthdays around here. I feel like it is the only day that is truly yours to celebrate....except for the fact that 10 years ago (almost 11) I began to share my day with Trippe. (more on that to come).
Mary Katherine kicks us off with our birthday season. This is a BIG year for her. MK celebrated her Sweet Sixteenth Birthday yesterday. We asked her shortly after Christmas what she wanted to do for her big birthday. She really had no big plans. I was asked by a friend who owned a local restaurant what our plans were. When she found out they were not big then all plans changed. She offered us the use of her restaurant for a surprise party. The planning began. I let MK think she was going with friends to her favorite restaurant Ichiban then to see Soundwave perform. All along, a couple of her friends and I planned this party.
She was sneaky and tried figuring us out, but she didn't have all the details. Friends gathered at Romie's on her birthday. We had told her that we would go out to eat as a family (with Bud) for her big day. We arrived at Romies, Bud opened the door and her friends yelled SURPRISE! She smiled so big. I think she smile most of the night. We had her itunes playing, food was set and everyone visited with one another. Mary Katherine is so blessed to call many people friend. Philip told her that he was so proud that she was friends with so many.(That is just her kind-hearted spirit.) She truly sees the good in all people.
Among her friends were some of her youngest friends...Jessie Lee, Mary Lawson, Pinchy and Lilla. MK was excited to share her day with them also.
Mary Katherine kicks us off with our birthday season. This is a BIG year for her. MK celebrated her Sweet Sixteenth Birthday yesterday. We asked her shortly after Christmas what she wanted to do for her big birthday. She really had no big plans. I was asked by a friend who owned a local restaurant what our plans were. When she found out they were not big then all plans changed. She offered us the use of her restaurant for a surprise party. The planning began. I let MK think she was going with friends to her favorite restaurant Ichiban then to see Soundwave perform. All along, a couple of her friends and I planned this party.
She was sneaky and tried figuring us out, but she didn't have all the details. Friends gathered at Romie's on her birthday. We had told her that we would go out to eat as a family (with Bud) for her big day. We arrived at Romies, Bud opened the door and her friends yelled SURPRISE! She smiled so big. I think she smile most of the night. We had her itunes playing, food was set and everyone visited with one another. Mary Katherine is so blessed to call many people friend. Philip told her that he was so proud that she was friends with so many.(That is just her kind-hearted spirit.) She truly sees the good in all people.
Among her friends were some of her youngest friends...Jessie Lee, Mary Lawson, Pinchy and Lilla. MK was excited to share her day with them also.
Monday, January 17, 2011
OH SNOW!
Tupelo forecast for Sunday, January 9 was SNOW. We were predicted to have 3-8 inches of Snow. Philip was working in Amory. Trippe was playing with Jett. The girls and I were hanging out at the house. Trippe called about spending the night with Jett and we saw flurries as we went down to his house. We continued to watch out the window to see snow and more snow. The weather was continually forecast to be worse. We talked Philip into coming home an hour early. The roads were covered, but he made it home safely. (bragging about his wagon getting him here) We woke Monday to find 6 1/2 inches of snow.Schools were closed and work was canceled for Philip. We have not seen snow like this. We could not even see the bushes in our front flowerbed. Wynn and Philip went out front and played in the snow with Amos and the neighbors (Mr. Pat and Mrs. Amy).
We finally got the older girls to wake up. They slowly made their way outside to find us playing. The reactions were not as excited as we would have liked. We quickly decided this was Dad's and kids surprise days off so we would make the most of it.
We piled on every warm item we could find, loaded the car, called some friends then headed out to Ballard Park for some fun! We took MK to hang with friends at Kacie's where they had made a GIANT snowman. Her XC friends walked down the street to a hill where they slid in the snow.
The rest of us and a few more friends headed to Ballard Park. We slid down the hills, rolled giant snow balls, had snow ball fights, made snow angels, and laughed a whole lot!
We wrapped up our day of fun with a bowl of SNOW CREAM!
A fun fact about all of this snow was that it was a lot of white stuff for our area, but on that day 49 of the 50 states had snow. The only missing state was FL.
We finally got the older girls to wake up. They slowly made their way outside to find us playing. The reactions were not as excited as we would have liked. We quickly decided this was Dad's and kids surprise days off so we would make the most of it.
We piled on every warm item we could find, loaded the car, called some friends then headed out to Ballard Park for some fun! We took MK to hang with friends at Kacie's where they had made a GIANT snowman. Her XC friends walked down the street to a hill where they slid in the snow.
We wrapped up our day of fun with a bowl of SNOW CREAM!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas
Our family enjoys Christmas traditions. We bake strawberry bread,spiced tea, hot chocolate, a candy making day with Merissa, drawing names among the siblings, tagging and decorating the biggest Leland Cypress tree that we can find, and listening to Christmas music. Several years ago we made Christmas Eve our family event. We spend the day delivering the last of the Strawberry Bread and making gumbo. We begin the end of our night with Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at the Orchard.
This year we woke up on Christmas morning to a White Christmas. I've never seen a white Christmas as far as I can remember, but we looked outside to find this.
We woke at 6 which was unusual for our children. Philip made sure that Santa had arrived and made Mom a pot of coffee. The kids lined up to find what Santa had left them this year. We found a den full of gifts...
Amos was alarmed that the den was covered in stuff and that the stockings were moved. He barked and curiously walked through our gift exchange for a while.
We enjoyed seeing all the gifts that Santa had left then exchanging gifts from one another.
After our gift exchange, we ate our traditional Christmas morning breakfast...Sausage Balls and Cinnamon Rolls! We bundled up and enjoyed our Christmas present from the Lord.
We threw snowballs, rolled a snowman, and enjoyed the beauty of the morning.
We stayed out as long as we could stand it. The snow was falling in big flakes and continued to pile up. One last job for the kids was...
GOTCHA! MERRY WHITE CHRISTMAS! Thank you Lord for showing us your GLORY!
This year we woke up on Christmas morning to a White Christmas. I've never seen a white Christmas as far as I can remember, but we looked outside to find this.
We woke at 6 which was unusual for our children. Philip made sure that Santa had arrived and made Mom a pot of coffee. The kids lined up to find what Santa had left them this year. We found a den full of gifts...
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