We Could Never....

Hi again everyone!  It's been quite some time since I have blogged, but I have some big news!  We FINALLY opened our home for fostering!  Our CALL coordinator asked for bloggers to blog about foster care and I figured now was as good of a time as ever to open this back up and begin blogging!

The title of this post is "We Could Never."  I want to begin with the fact that this was not our view on fostering.  In fact, it was something God called us to do and we answered.  We knew that if God called us, He would equip us.  That's exactly what He has done.  I titled this post because I hear those words often.  So often when people see us with our G-Man, I am told, "I'm so proud of your family.  We could never do it."

People, let me first just tell you this.  You CAN do this.  Will there be difficult times?  Of course.  Will there be tears shed?  Of course.  However, would you rather these sweet, precious children not experience love?  Don't they deserve us being attached and loving them?  Don't they deserve someone crying over them.  Don't they deserve our prayers?  Don't they deserve a home where they will feel safe and protected?  If you answered yes to any of those questions, then you CAN do it.  In the end, it's not about us, it's about them.  I think having my heart broken is worth it for these children to feel showered in God's love!

As we enter the unknown, we have to trust that God is by our side.  He will guide us and give us all we need.

Been away...

I haven't posted in a while.  I have had so much going on lately, that a lot of things have taken a back seat.  I had another weekend class last weekend, a baby shower, a wedding shower, and a family get-together.  It's amazing how busy you can be without even realizing it.
Today, is a much needed stay-at-home day.  Sure, there are things we probably should go get like groceries and other items, but it can wait.  Randall and Randy are napping, Ruthie's crafting, and I am editing.
We received an amazing blessing.  Randall usually works 3 days on, 3 days off, with the 6th shift being a night shift.  This was tough.  One, Ruthie and I are away from home Monday-Friday, 7-4 basically.  Two, when he did get off it was at 7pm, then he would have to shower just to come home, eat dinner, and lay the kids down.  There was ZERO time together as a family.  Well, a few weeks back they asked if anyone was interested Monday-Thursday 7-5 hours.  Randall jumped at the opportunity.  He has always dreamed of being off when we are and being able to attend church each time the doors are open.  Sure, we will be missing out on some money, but money is NOT everything.  We would all much rather him be with us.  He's pretty excited!  He is also preaching tomorrow, so it's going to be a good day!
Things are still a bit tough, from the last time I posted.  Please keep up the prayers for us.  We have full faith that God will pull us through!

Cousins gathered around eating lunch!  It was SO nice to get together and see everyone!

My sweet girl just relaxing and drawing some pictures!

Randy hiding from me!

My sweet girl got an award at school!  I am so glad to see her doing so well! 

My hope is in You Lord

I am blessed beyond measures when it comes to this husband of mine.  He may drive me completely bonkers at times, but there are some times when he knows exactly what I need.  Today was just one of those days.  I was in a funk.  I get into funks quite often and sometimes, I get really, really down. I  won't sugar coat it, I am an emotional wreck.  I would NOT want to live with myself.  I would NOT marry myself. I am not the person I want to be.  I was just down today and I wanted nothing more than to crawl into my bed after the kids went to school and just lay there and cry.  But, life is in full swing and I had to get going.  I was in tears all morning.   Lunch time rolled around and I ran home to grab some lunch.  As soon as Randall saw me, he grabbed me and held me tight.  He knew exactly what I needed.  Yes, it sent me to tears, but I needed that hug so bad.  He knows I am down and he was there to pick me up.  I am forever grateful for him.  He knows just how to explain things to me to open my eyes.

I want to say that I fully trust God and always see the positive in everything and that I always have full faith.  I love it when my eyes are opened to see the full love of God.  I can sit her and tell you that I love God, I worship Him, and that He is my everything.  But, I am still a sinner.  I still fail Him.  I still don't understand why He loves me.  Today was a day when He opened my eyes to so much more.

As Randall holds me, he tells me that God has it all planned out. When He takes some things away, we can't cry and just give up as I was doing.  We have food, shelter, each other, and most importantly- God's love.  What else do we need?  Did I already know this?  YES.  Was I thinking this?  NO.  I was feeling all sorry for myself and letting material things get in the way.  God has me and will never let go.  Randall told me my hope and faith should be in Him and Him only.

As I drive back to work, God just put a song in my heart and again, made me realize how much He loves me.  Yes, things suck right now, but God is always right there....even through the sucky times.  My life is in You Lord, my strength is in You Lord, my hope is in You Lord!

Let me add that I know that what I am going through doesn't even begin to compare to what others are going through- cancer, adoptions, losing loved ones.  But, what makes God so awesome is it doesn't matter the severity, it just matters where your hope lies.  I am so thankful for the God I serve.  All I had to do was fall to my knees and ask for help.  Instead I laid there in self pity.  Thank you God for forgiving me.

I honestly don't know what I would do without a Godly husband.  He wouldn't have known just what to say.  My husband does because He serves God.  Thank you God for opening our eyes and pulling us back to You.

Thinking ahead....

My heart is heavy and full of joy today.  I have so much on my mind, I feel as though I can't concentrate.  I keep thinking about what's ahead in our lives.  I know we are to live in the moment, but after reading another blog today, my mind can't seem to focus.  Let me explain....
I have a friend I used to work with.  She traveled to Honduras during Spring Break.  There she met a VERY precious little girl.  After meeting her, she knew right then, she wanted her.  See, this precious little girl is in an orphanage.  She is unwanted.  My friend and her family want her.  Their hearts are crying out to her.  They want to give her what she needs.  Not just what she wants, but what she needs.  She doesn't have a home, a family, someone to love her forever, or a good supply of food.  My friend just wants to give her her basic needs, plus MUCH more.  Things aren't moving along as they had hoped, there are some trials, but God is still moving.
This morning, I was reading my favorite blog.  Ashley Ann is truly an inspirational mother and wife.  She loves with all her heart and knows how to put it into words that make you wonder what you are doing with your life and are you really making a difference. She lets her kids be kids.  She's crafty and just full of joy! I love her blog.  This morning I was excited to read about her trip to China where she met her daughter.  Ashley has been on an adoption journey for a while.  She has known for many years she wanted to adopt.  Today, I finally got to see photos of her little one.  My how my heart leaped with joy.  She is absolutely gorgeous.  Her smile melted my heart.  The photos of her looking into Ashley's eyes and seeing her new dad hold her with tear-stained cheeks.....there are no words.  It just makes me sit back and wonder, "what am I doing?  Am I making a difference?"  I am not saying you have to adopt to make a difference.  But something is moving in my heart.  I can't explain it.  I don't know if it has to do with all the pregnant people around me, traveling to Honduras, or reading about these adoptions.  I just know God is moving in my heart.  He is telling me something.  I need to be still and listen.  Randall and I have both been led to foster.  And the odd thing is, I think we are both leaning towards the youth.  Most people would prefer younger ones.  For some reason we both see us with teenagers.  We both have agreed to look into it a lot more in about five years.  We want to be financially stable.  We are far from it.  We want to be able to support these kids on our own.  We have no idea what fostering involves, we just know we want to be a part of it.  I know that there are so many out there without a mother or father.  It breaks my heart to know they feel unloved.  Working with the youth, I see so many craving attention.  It burdens my heart b/c I want to give it to them, but they want their parents.  I want to make a difference.  I want to do what God is calling me to do.  I want to give love where love is needed.
I realize this is a lot of rambling, but I am posting b/c I want to ask for prayers.  Pray for our family as we open our hearts and allow God to guide us and show us what He wants.  Not what we want, but what He wants.

I'm Back! {Honduras Trip}

Whew....what an amazing trip I had!  It was such a blessing!  Let's just say there were a few kids who made me truly want to adopt and bring back home!  One brother and sister in particular!  They were well taken care of, but their sweet souls just made my heart ache for them b/c I want them!

I will start from the beginning!
On the way to the airport, it was POURING down rain.  We have prayed for rain all summer.  It finally hit so hard that we almost missed our flight.  Let's just say nothing was going to stop us.  Our flight was delayed a bit.  We were supposed to have fifty minutes in between our flights.  That quickly changed to twenty minutes.  We were running through the Houston airport.  I thought for sure we wouldn't make it.  We did thank goodness!  When we arrived in San Pedro Sula, a man accidently took off with my back pack which held my Kindle (way of communicating while down there) and many other things.  I take off running again and try to explain to him with hand motions that he had my back pack.  We get it figured out, but I was scared b/c here I was running through an airport with sawed off shotguns and I don't even speak their language!  Thank GOODNESS I got my bag back b/c as it turns out, only 3 people received their luggage.  Guess who did not? That's right- ME. I was so grateful to have some extra clothes in my carry on.
After we arrive we meet up with our AMAZING helpers, Manuel & Maira and the best Honduran driver- Louise!  They are absolutely the most helpful, loving people you will ever meet.  They take us out to eat at the Power Chicken.  YUMMO!  It was deliciouso!  Once we got to the hotel (about a 2.5 hour drive) we settled down in time for dinner.  Let's just say we were WIPED OUT!  The next three days we visisted two schools in the morning, ate lunch, and then we visited two schools in the afternoon.  Some even stuck around after school was over just to see us and hear God's Word!  I love the fact that we are allowed to share God's Word IN SCHOOL in Honduras.  If only that could happen again here.....  I think it's such an opportunity for me, b/c I work at a school.   I have to travel in order to bring God's Word to the public schools.....
All the schools had amazing children.  The boy I fell in love with was at the gate when we arrived.  He just smiled at me the whole time.  I kept my eyes out for him while we were there.  After we handed out the Shepherd Bags, we were able to enjoy some play time with them.  I played with him for a while and his sweet, gorgeous sister came up to me and I asked her if she was his sister.  She said yes, and I just wanted to scoop them up and go home!  They were so precious.  He hugged me many times and told me thank you.  He even kissed my cheek as we were leaving.  Needless to say, I left in tears.  I am so grateful for the little Spanish I know!
We were able to eat at a wonderful resturant and the other was so polite to us.  She did anything we needed her to.  She was one gorgeous woman too.  The mayor of Santa Barbara (where we went) even came along the first day and sent assistants the next few days.  She even paid for our spectacular hotel!
Before we hand out Shepherd Bags, our preacher preaches some and Manuel translates.  After, Manuel preaches some more.  Asks them to bow their heads, say a prayer, and then raise their hand if they meant it.  Seeing those precious glowing hands raised....there are no words.  Many souls more going to Heaven and when I get there, I can't wait to see their little faces!
The first time I went, I was a bit uneasy b/c all around me it felt evil.  I didn't feel safe where we went the first time in 2010.  This time, it was a whole different story.  We were accepted everywhere.  These people haven't had to experience the devil.  I am so happy God's seed was planted before the devil came.   Last time, I went to learn to put God first in my life.  I had put my family first and I knew that was wrong.  Leaving your children and trusting that God is protecting you all is a hard thing to do and I was so blessed.  I have God first in my life and I was able to relax and truly enjoy the country and their people!
We had some amazing people go with us.  Two special youth girls went.  What an experience!  They kept us on our toes and had us laughing until tears were running down our legs!  HAHA!  They are such precious souls and I think it is VERY important for younger generations to see poverty in true form and see what they have compared to others.
I am one blessed woman.  Now, to share some photos.......

Me and some kiddos on the first day, first school.  The one in the middle LOVED the camera!

 

Here is my boy....yes, I wish he was here with me now....

 

And here we are with his sister.  Isn't she breathtaking!?

 

Precious little saved souls I will one day see in Heaven!

 

Checking out what they received in their bags!

Raising children...

This post has been on my mind for quite some time.  Today in Sunday School, God laid it on my heart to share.
We have been participating in a study by Chip Ingram called "Effective Parenting in a Defective World."  The title itself is perfect.  I was so excited to just begin.  I normally teach Sunday School for ages 8-10, but I asked to take some time off to study along with the adult SS class.
I am going to open my heart here.  It's a very difficult thing for me to talk about....
I have expressed my feelings here to be a stay-at-home-mom.  It's what I wish for.  But, God has made me aware that it is not possible at this time.  Who knows if it ever will be.  One reason I want to be a SAHM is so I can home-school Ruthie and Randy.  I absolutely hate the fact that I can't shield Ruthie's ears from the awful things she hears at school. I also hate the fact that she rides the bus with older kids and who even knows what they say.  It scares me to death.  I feel as though the moment Ruthie walked into Kindergarten, her innocence was lost in a way.  She has heard things that just bothered her, which in turn, bothered me.
With all that being said, the other day we were driving to school.  She brought up how her cousin goes to a Christian school.  She asked why she can't and I had to explain to her that it's just not something we can do at the time.  I told her I would love for her to go to school and have God be in her lessons and be surrounded by people who love God.  She cried and cried, which of course made me cry feeling like a failure.  Then, our great God laid it upon my heart to share with her something that I learned last summer from a dear family member of mine.    If we took all God loving Christian kids out of public school and put them into private school, who would teach the others about God?  Isn't that OUR job as Christians to spread His word?  I told her that school is her mission field.  I explained to her that there are kids that don't know God and who need someone to teach them.  I also told her that it's not the teachers job to teach her about God, but it's mine and Randall's job to teach her.  The amazing thing??  She remembered.  She was telling my sister that she wants to go to a Christian school, and she told her that she also needs to stay at her school and tell the kids about Jesus.  She WAS listening!!!
I am NOT saying that Christian private school is bad.  Not by any means.  Like my aunt told me last year- it all depends on the child.  If the child is a leader- they will probably succeed in public school.  If they are a follower, they will probably do better in private school.  Is Ruthie a leader or follower?  That I don't know just yet.  I would probably say right in the middle.  Am I still scared she is going to hear all kinds of things?  Yes.  We pray every morning before school and I pray as soon as I drop her off that God will protect her ears, hold her hands in the halls, and that angels will surround her.  I also pray that she always remembers that HE is the one who matters.
Raising children today is so hard b/c the world makes it so much easier to do things the worldy ways and not God's ways.  He doesn't want us to just shelter them to where they don't see it, but to allow them to see some, and teach them to be strong in their faith so when their tests come, they can stand firm in His ways.
It's my prayer that soon, Ruthie will ask Jesus into her heart.  She knows what it means to be saved.  She knows that He died on the cross for her, and that we are sinners, yet He loves us.  We just told her that soon Jesus will be knocking on her heart asking her to let Him come in.  I pray that she realizes it and that she opens her hear to Him.  He's worth everything.

Down...

I can't seem to get out of my rut.  I know that my last few posts have been there to help others, I can't say that I am doing it all perfectly either.  It's so easy to say that once you have God, things will get easier.  Things will, in a sense.

I have to say that lately, I have been down.  I am not sure what's going on, but I can't see to "get a grip."  I feel as though I go day by day, just trying to make it to bedtime.  Of course, I have a lot on my mind: finals, photography (have like a million to schedule!), kiddos, youth, my studies, work, and cleaning this house.  How do I climb out?  How do you just "wake up" and "get a grip?"

I know one way is to dive into the Word of God.  I also love prayer and worship.  My mornings are quite rushed.  I am exhausted when I go to bed and when I get up.  I drop Randy off at daycare, drive to Ruthie's school, drop her off in JUST enough time to fly to work and get there on time.  When I am flying to work- that's my worship time.  I know a lot of people may think I can't concentrate on God while driving, but I can.  In fact, it's like my little bubble.  I don't have anyone talking, just a conversation with God.  It's so nice.  After my prayers, I like to crank up my Chris Tomlin CD.  There is no better worship leader than him.  When I hear those words and praise Him, I know the Holy Spirit is there with me.  It's such a blessing.  I haven't been as consistent on my worship in the mornings.  I do my prayer, but as soon as I am finished, I let my mind wander to everything else.  I am thinking this is a reason I am down.

I wonder....what are some things you do to just lift yourself up out of the rut?  Hit me with some ideas!

With that being said, I can't help but post a photo.  Here is something that always makes me smile! (Don't know why, but blogger makes my photos look washed out....UGH!)

Matthew 28:19

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit."

That's our mission.  That's our job in this world.  We are to GO.  Here is a video of a song that Ruthie learned on our last mission trip:

With that being said (or sung!) I wanna talk about the mission trip that Ruthie and I took at the first of March, and the one Randall is on right now.  

The first weekend of March, Ruthie and I went to Oklahoma City and attended a Lay Witness Mission (LWM).  We had an amazing time.  The church was huge, but it was struggling b/c it had 2000 members, but only 200 in the pew Sunday morning.  They had everything, but something was missing, hence the reason for the LWM.  Randall and I work with the youth, along with two of our youth that join us.  This time, Randall wasn't able to join us.  It was hard, but with his job, it's tough to get his vacation to where he can do everything.  This time, my brother-in-law went with us!  He was awesome to have along!  I can't say that we did an awesome job with the youth, mainly b/c they didn't talk, but I sure pray that we got those gears turning in their heads!  The adults, man oh man, you could see the Spirit moving with them!  It was amazing.

This church was directly across the street from where the OKC bombing took place.  One story I just HAVE to share.  Three churches in the area suffered damage from the bombing. The amazing thing- out of the three, their stain-glass window was in a million pieces, EXCEPT for the head of Christ!  AWESOME huh?  We had the opportunity to go through the memorial and the museum.  It was tough.  I wasn't very old when it happened, but I can still remember the footage from that day.  The memorial was even more touching at night.  I have to share this photo I took:

Today, Randall left on a ten day mission to the Philippines.  Needless to say, it's been a rough day.  Randy keeps asking where Daddy is and Ruthie's shed tears many times throughout the day.  Me too.  It's tough, but I can say that I am beyond blessed to have a husband who loves God more than us.  That's what God calls us to do.  That's exactly what he is doing.  Randall HATES to fly, yet he went.  He knows we miss him and he misses us, yet he went.  It's dangerous, yet he went.  That's our job- TO GO!  Please be in prayer for him and the other five that joined him on this trip.  I am missing him like crazy.  It's gonna be tough tonight when I head to bed, but I just have to pray that he is safe.  I love the fact that he's out there sharing God's word to the people of the Philippines!  Not only do they get to share His Word, they get to hand out Shepard Bags and help put on a roof!

Here is a link to the group that we go on our over-seas mission trips with- http://www.eimworldwide.org/

Been a while...

We took a break from the internet, tv, video games, and constant technology.  I kept my phone on, but relied on it less.  It was a nice little break.  Just what we needed.  Randy is ADDICTED to "PV" so he was the main reason we turned it off.  Did he ask for it every.single.day?  YES!  But, he got over it.

I have so much going on in my mind right now, this post could go on and on.  Seriously.  I feel overwhelmed with so much.  I will be blogging it b/c this is like my little place to write about life.  I want it to be real.  Not just all happy happy joy joy thoughts.  I want it to be real life.  Something happened to me yesterday that totally woke my happy hiney up.  It hurt.  I am still struggling with it.  But, I know that through Him, He will help me correct and change it.  I don't plan on blogging about it right now, mainly b/c it's still a fresh wound and I am not ready to pour salt on it.  So, that will be another post in the future.

I do have TONS of pictures to share, so I will randomly pick a few to share with the posts that are coming up. For now, I would like to just share a few of my babies.  They make me smile.  They help me realize one of the many reasons I am here on this earth.  God trusted me to raise them to love and honor Him.  I pray that I can do just that.

I realize he's a bit out of focus, but seriously, how could I not edit this one?  He was still for like oh, .000005 seconds!

  Yes, this is the joy of my life.  She made me a mother.  She is such a blessing.

 PRECIOUS.  No other words can describe how this photo makes my heart SWELL with love!

 Um, all boy?  Yes!  he could care less about photo shoots!

 Thanks goodness, she is WILLING!  :)  Love this one of her!

Thankful

I realize I posting this the day after Thanksgiving, but better late than never right?

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays.  I truly enjoy getting together with family.  This year, was probably one of the best.  Randall and I both went to bed talking about the great day we had.  We enjoyed a great meal with my MIL, SIL, BIL, and niece on Wed night.  We just had a laid back Thanksgiving and I think that was exactly what we all needed.  Yesterday, we celebrated with a total of 50 people on my side.  We were even missing quite a few people!  We enjoyed conversation with family we rarely see.  It was just a very blessed day.

I have so much to be thankful for.
I have a Savior- Jesus Christ who died for me.
I will have eternal life through my Savior.
I have a wonderful husband who is a man of God and leads our family the way God intended him to.
I have two precious babies.  They inspire me to be a better person.
I have a wonderful family on both sides.
I have parents who raised me to know and love the Lord.
I have sisters and brothers who will help me in times of need.
I have nieces and nephews who always know how to make me smile.
I have Grandparents who are sold out for Jesus.
I have friends who will stand beside me through thick and thin.
I have a church family who has helped me in ways I couldn't even imagine!
I have a home that keeps me warm, cool, and dry.
I have vehicles to get me where I need to go.
I have a job that I love and allows me to be off during the Holidays so I can spend it with family.
I have more than I could ever ask for.

I owe it all to God, not money, not luck, but God.  I am blessed.

A Quote

This quote was on FB by a dear friend and it hit me pretty hard.

" If Satan can't make you bad, he's just fine with making you busy."


This is so true.  This was posted for me to see.  I believe that 100%!  God is working on me.  I have been studying on how to be a better wife.  I think it's opening my eyes on how to be a better mother too.  One verse that stood out to me was Proverbs 31:26- "When she speaks, her words are wise and kindness is the rule for everything she says."  I am not always kind.  I tend to get frustrated quite often.  I struggle with my attitude the moment I walk through the door.  I am here to say I am not perfect.  I want to be a better mother, wife, and child of God.

Today, I took a step.  I realize I work out of the home, but I know stay-at-home-moms are busy too.  I tend to get wrapped up in life, laundry, and the net.  It's a struggle for me.  Today, as soon as we got home, we played outside for a bit.  The kids rode their scooters and bikes (on the front porch b/c that's all the pavement we have around here!) and Randy just about fell off the porch backwards, so I had to put an end to all that.  I pushed them on the tire swing.  We went for a walk down the dirt road and picked up trash.  We even grabbed a blanket and laid out on the trampoline and sang songs. This is what God wants me to do as a mother.  NOT play on the net, read other books, play the Wii, or even be caught up in laundry.  He wants me to raise them right, teach them HIS way, and spend time with them while they still want me to.  Business tends to pull you away from what God wants.  It pulls us to what WE want, but not what HE wants.  I see this everywhere.  It's a struggle for the world.  I just pray that as women, we take the time out and spend it with what truly counts- God & family.

Kindergarten News + 35/52

Ruthie is LOVING Kindergarten!!  I am amazed at how well she is doing.  I am soooooo proud of her b/c she has received the Principal's Award for good behavior, always listening, and being polite.  That makes me sooooooo proud!!!  Although home doesn't reflect that behavior, I still want to brag on her.  She's growing up, that's for sure.  The other night, she had her first night of "homework" and she was estatic!  I want to make that my P52 photo.  She's just too cute!



Not much else is going on.  Randy is doing great at daycare, which totally makes my life easier.  Work is going well.  Not really "into" it this year, but hopefully it will get better.  My heart is at home where I feel as though I should be, but that doesn't work for our family. 

Randall had the opportunity to preach this morning.  We enjoyed attending a new church and hearing him share the gospel.  So proud of the man I married.  Funny how our lives began and how they have completely changed, but only for the better.  I can only thank God for that.  Such a blessing!

New Ministry

I am excited b/c our church is hosting a new ministry we are going to learn about.  It's going to teach us to be more comfortable in our faith and help us learn to share the gospel with knowledge and confidence. 

How many people out there aren't 100% comfortable with sharing their faith?  **raising my hand!**  I mean, it's easy with some people, but then there are those that I don't feel prepared enough to share with.  Well, this class is gonna help just that.  I am excited b/c all I truly need is my left hand.  Left hand you might be asking?  Let me explain.....

You might still be a bit confused.  See, what I learned tonight is-
Grace= Free gift, it's not earned or deserved
Man= Sinner, can not save himself
God= Merciful and just b/c he has to punish us for our sins
Christ= Both God & man, He died on the cross, rose from the dead, paid the penalty for our sins, purchased us a home in Heaven. 
Faith- not head knowledge or temporary faith, but true trust in Christ Jesus alone.

See, basically that is the steps of sharing the gospel right?  Of course there is a lot more, so I have only touched the tip of the lesson.  But, I can say that I am so excited to start this ministry!  I can't wait to continue blogging about it. 

See, at the beginning of the lesson, he asked us to write down at least ONE person we want to see saved.  He also challenged us to share this with someone this week. I figured blogging about it, I can share it with more than one person in the virtual world, but I can also share it with someone else! 

Let me know what you think! 

Church Camp 2011 + 24/52

This photo basically sums up our amazing experience at camp this year.  Last year, I wasn't able to attend, being that I was in Honduras.  But, my amazing husband took our two kiddos last year and was the male counselor.  This year, I think we more than doubled our amount of campers!  We took 31 people, 5 being adults. We were beyond blessed!

We arrived a bit late Monday morning, but it was still ok.  Our kids were able to attend the first class.  Ruthie and Randy went along with us.  We knew it might get a bit stressful, but we would much rather allow them to experience camp too. 

Bro. Travis Plumlee was our speaker.  Talk about one AMAZING man of God.  This man brings it.  He knows his stuff and definately loves the Lord.  I was blessed to hear him speak at our revival this year, so I was thrilled I was given the chance to hear him speak again.  He preaches on all topics: marriage, courting, purity, depression, and raising kids to name a few.  I read his book on raising kids- and it changed my parenting a lot.

We had one of our youth saved, and 3 rededicate their lives.  While we were there, we had two brothers have a "Come to Jesus" meeting and they grew so much closer together and closer to God.  I was beyond blessed to experience this. 

It is so amazing to see God work in the lives of younger ones.  These kids have to suffer through too much.  Way too much.  It breaks my heart to hear what some of them are going through, but we have to have the faith that God will deliver them.  I know He will as long as they follow His path.  I pray for each and every one of them. 

Sunday morning worship- we had the youth bring camp back to the adults.  They did just that.  On the last song, the youth went down into the crowd, grabbed their hands and we all worships together.  It was amazing.  Lots of tears were shed.  We also had one young man give his life to Jesus at the end of the service!  AMAZING!

Denning/Etna Tornado

It's been a long week and I wasn't directly affected by the tornado. On My 24/25, 2011, a tornado ripped through two towns that mean a lot to me. That day at work, a co-worked told me I needed to go some place safe for the night b/c it was supposed to be the worst night of storms yet. My brother who lives about 1.5 hours away, was telling me to be prepared as well. They were predicting it to hit his town, not ours.

I get off work, head straight to my house and pack up clothes for the night. My Grandad (well, actually Randall's Grandad, but I claim him!) has an amazing cellar. He has it so nice and clean and he even has electricty down there along with a bed! I told Randall I think we better stay there until we know what the storm plans on doing.

The kids and I lay down in the living room and fall asleep while G-dad and Randall stay up watching the weather. They wake us up around 10:30 and we headed to the cellar. We were down there just talking and listening to the local radio station. About 11:30 the reports were coming in that there was a tornado down in Etna. Etna is where my aunt, uncle, and grandpa live along with my uncle's business. My sister and her son were also there for the night. I was scared to death. You see, there are not many houses in Etna, it's a small town. So when the report said a house was hit in Etna, all I could do was pray. I was in tears constantly trying to get ahold of my uncle and sister. About five-ten minutes later, reports are coming in that there is a tornado in Denning, which is where my Mom & Dad live. Five minutes later, the tornado is heading North to Harmony which is where my niece and nephew were. I was so scared. All I could do was pray. My brother calls me telling me that he was on the phone with my Dad telling him to take cover and then the phone went dead. He jumped in his vehicle and drove to Denning. Randall leaves the cellar and takes off to check on my mom and dad. Finally, my uncle calls and tells me they are all ok, but their house, Grandpa's house are damaged, and the business is gone. Finally, I get a call from my brother saying he got ahold of my parents. But, he also tells me his in-laws are trapped in their house as well. Luckily, they were rescued. I called my niece and nephew and they were all okay as well. Needless to say, it was a horrible hectic night. But, I can say the good Lord was watching over my family b/c everyone is safe and fine. Yes, my uncle and Grandpa have some damage to their house, but it's liveable. My uncle is having to start from scratch to rebuild his business.

The towns of Denning and Etna are pretty much leveled. There are still people without power. Each town lost one person, one being a single mom with a precious 4 year old, and the other being a mom of an 11 year old boy. This was a fatal and scary tornado.
Thoughts and prayers for these towns are appreciated. Things are getting cleaned up, but that just might be the easier part. It's the rebuilding of lives that might be the hardest.

Here are a few videos:
Tiny Town Of Denning Decimated By Twister
Etna Tornado Damage

Week Nineteen {Project52}

This week, I didn't pick up my camera much for myself.  I had a photo shoot on Tuesday, but that's on my blogsite. 

I was trying to find the perfect picture.  I was going through the ones I had taken, and this is the one I wanted to share.

This picture is of one of my best friends.  She is so dear to me.  When I came to West Park, she was very kind to me and we became great friends.  She is there for me and understands me.  She listens to me, and can tell when I need to talk.  That's what friends are for.  We even went on a great adventure together to Honduras last year.  Talk about an experience.  We left that airport BAWLING our eyes out b/c we were leaving our babies.  Speaking of babies, she is pregnant!  I am beyond thrilled for her.  It's been a long struggle, but she has some amazing faith, and God has brought her through the rough times. She is strong and I can NOT wait to meet this little guy.  I pray that he is healthy.  He is such a little blessing already!  Joyce, I know you will probably kick my butt for this, but this post is all about you!  Love you!  Thanks for always being there.  God gave me an amazing friend!!! 

Radical

A few weeks back, a dear friend and co-worker introduced me to a book titled Radical by David Platt.  She was telling me about it and asked me if I wanted to read some of it on her Ipad.  Of course I did, it sounded very interesting.  Little did I know what an impact it would have on me.  The thing is, I am only half way through with the book, and my heart is so heavy, so full of a desire to do everything and obey my God. 

My issue is, where do I begin?  The book talks about all kind of different ways to help.  My mind is racing with all kinds of ideas:  help out a homeless shelter, provide food to the needy, buy clothes for the needy, sell my items that I don't need, pack up and move to Honduras.  Seriously.... reading this book changed my outlook on everything.  I am soaking every single bit of the book up, taking notes along the way, passing them on to Randall.  I think I might start blogging about some of the notes as well.  Maybe those posts will help others. 

The book talks about being Radical for God.  Here in America, we don't even understand what being "radical for God" means.  We think sitting in our padded church pews, in an A/C or heated santuary that costs more money than most people outside of America make in 10 years, for 1 hour (4 hours for those who attend Sunday School, Sunday night, and Wed night) with a parking lot full of millions of dollars worth of vehicles, is radical.  Um.....not so much.  We seriously have it all wrong.  We think we are doing what's right when we upgrade our phones, our cars, our clothes, our everything.  We also think that giving some money in the church plate and donating our clothes to the local shelter one time a year is enough.  I am not saying this isn't good, but is it RADICAL!?  When Jesus said to sell all your goods and follow me, he didn't mean sell what you don't want and come with Me.  He meant everything. 

So, my question for the people who read this blog, what are you doing that is Radical?  I want some ideas.  We live in such a tiny town ( not saying it has to be here in America)  and I would love to make an impact here to begin with.  I can't wait to start this journey.  Share with me please!  I am going to be praying hard about this, and I pray that you do too.  GET YOUR HANDS ON THIS BOOK!

Blessed

It is wayyyyyy past my bedtime, but I am up, and I am so full of joy right now. 

We had a great time at church tonight.  I sit in with the youth and we are doing a study of the book Crazy Love- GREAT book by the way.  Anyways, after we were finished, we were asked to go into the sanctuary wtih everyone else. 

We all gathered at the altar and talked about how hard it is for kids these days.  Their lives are so much harder than it was for us.  They have so many more struggles.  It shocks me to hear/see what these kids go through.  After our pastor spoke, we prayed for all the children.  From babies to college students.  God was there.  He is touching every single precious head there.  He is so good.  Afterwards, we headed to eat and had a great fellowship time with our church family. 

We are so blessed to have the pastor and pastor's wife we have.  They are so easy going and amazing.  They even came by Ruthie's game last night just to say hi and watch for a bit.  That was so precious to me.  I love that my children are being raised in God's house and they are being prayed for by so many different church members.  We are beyond blessed.  I just can't think of another word.  West Park has changed our lives for the better!

You Loved Me Anyway {Lyrics}

I have posted before about how lyrics to songs can touch me so deeply.  In fact, today at church, a dear friend sang the most beautiful song.  The words were so moving.  It reminded me of this song by Sidewalk Prophets.  Please, read the words to this song. 
"You Loved Me Anyway"
by: Sidewalk Prophets

The question was raised

As my conscience fell
A silly, little lie
It didn’t mean much
But it lingers still
In the corners of my mind

Still you call me to walk
On the edge of this world
To spread my dreams and fly
But the future’s so far
My heart is so frail
I think I’d rather stay inside

But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
How You love me
It took more than my strength
To simply be still
To seek but never find
All the reasons we change
The reasons I doubt
And why do loved ones have to die?

But You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
I am the thorn in Your crown
But You love me anyway
I am the sweat from Your brow
But You love me anyway
I am the nail in Your wrist
But You love me anyway
I am Judas’ kiss
But You love me anyway

See now, I am the man that called out from the crowd
For Your blood to be spilled on this earth shaking ground
Yes then, I turned away with this smile on my face
With this sin in my heart tried to bury Your grace
And then alone in the night, I still called out for You
So ashamed of my life, my life, my life

But You love me anyway
Oh, God… how you love me
You love me anyway
It’s like nothing in life that I’ve ever known
You love me anyway
Oh Lord, how You love me
You love me, You love me
You love me, You love me
How You love me
How You love me
How You love me
We walk along on this Earth here in America feeling so safe and secure.  We go about our day to day lives feeling as though we are able to do anything.  WHY do we feel like that?  Because of God's grace.  If it weren't for Him, we wouldn't be able to live like we do.  Yes, things are getting worse, but as long as we know and have God, then it will all be okay.  See, I know where I will be spending eternity.  I get to see streets of gold and I have a home in Gloryland.
Why do we get so wrapped up in the worldy things?  Everything has to be upgraded. Cars, phones, TVs, houses, clothes, shoes, computers, everything.  Why is that?  Why not save that money and give it to someone who TRULY needs it?  Why not put it in the offering plate?   The world is what is causing America to go downhill and we are just following along.
 If we based EVERYTHING in our lives around God, things might actually shape up.  Church is a great place to start.  Don't get me wrong, going to church will not save you, but it sure teaches you how to live right and get right with God.  Going to church does not just consist of going on Easter and Christmas or a Sunday morning here or there.  Go everytime the doors are open.  Trust me, if you do, you will see a difference.
If you actually read the words to that song, you would see that even though we weren't PHYSICALLY there when Jesus was crucified, we were there.  We were the ones nailing His wrist on the the cross.  We put the crown of thorns on His head.  We were the ones yelling, "Crucify Him!"  We are just as guilty b/c we live our lives in sin. 
I am not perfect.  I sin too.  I know that I have Jesus and b/c He died, I am forgiven.  I just want to live a life that glorifies Him.  This song reminds me that I am guilty, but forgiven.

Fathers

I was searching through Randy's birthday party photos, and I had planned on making a post about his birthday.  That was until I saw the photo of my dad, and I felt I need to make a post all about him.

My dad is always one who hides from the camera.  He always has his hand up in the photo and he is NEVER smiling.  Well, I finally got a camera that can beat him!  My shutter speed is just too fast for you Dad!!!

Here is my Daddy half-way smiling, watching my baby boy open his gifts.  My dad isn't one who is quick to show emotion, but you can see the love in his eyes, and you can feel it in his hugs. 
As a child, I would always want to grab my dad's hands rather than my moms.  My moms hands were soft and cold, while Dad's hands were rough and warm.  I am odd b/c I like rough hands.  I don't even like my own hands to be soft. 
Dad was and is a softee.  I loved that about him.  Of course, it may or may not have got me in trouble as a young girl (getting what I wanted) but I guess I turned out okay!  I can see it now with my kids as well.  Especially with Ruthie, even though he would not admit it. 

Randall and my dad may not look a lot alike, and they may have some differences, but I think they are a lot alike.  They are both kind hearted, loving, HARD working ( my dad has worked hard all his life, even when his body didn't want him to), and he loves the Lord.
No, my dad didn't always join us in church, but I can tell you that he does know the Lord and he is very educated in the Word. 

Dads are the most important role model in a daughter's life.  A lot of men think they are more important in a son's life, but I believe it's in a daughter's.  If the daughter doesn't feel loved and accepted by her own father, where will she turn?  To another guy who will give her the attention she does NOT need. 

I am so very lucky and blessed to have an amazing father.  I am also blessed to have a wonderful husband who is an amazing father to my children.  Life hands you amazing people in your life that can touch you in many ways.  Randall and my dad may not look alike, but they are two important people in my life.   

Think about the men in your life.  Is your husband playing the role he needs to in your child's life?  Do you need to thank your dad for the way he raised you?