I am blessed beyond measure. It all rains down from my father above.
Monday, February 19, 2007
A Downtown Afternoon
This is our afternoon in pictures. The kids and I went and strolled down the streets of Downtown small city. We had a great time. There is a photographer wanna be in all three of our hearts.
I am blessed beyond measure. It all rains down from my father above.
I am blessed beyond measure. It all rains down from my father above.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Stretching
Faith that believes it will see, will keep us from becoming discouraged.
Tears are running down my cheeks as my fingers are typing these words. Discouraged. I have let myself become discouraged. This is a testing period in our life and in this moment realization has hit. Confession. Lord I am here and I am discouraged. I sit here without the courage of your faith. I decided to leave it somewhere in a weak moment, or several weak moments. Your word hit me hard today. Thank you for speaking truth to my heart.
Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. I welcome you to come in and take over. You know my inmost desires and thoughts. May you increase my faith. I so want to please you. I want to believe with every ounce of my being.
I can feel your hand stretching me past the point of comfort. Still, I will follow you. I desire you. I would love to know where you are leading me. In someways, it feels, as if my heart is already there. Preparation. Time. Waiting.
LOVE.
Tears are running down my cheeks as my fingers are typing these words. Discouraged. I have let myself become discouraged. This is a testing period in our life and in this moment realization has hit. Confession. Lord I am here and I am discouraged. I sit here without the courage of your faith. I decided to leave it somewhere in a weak moment, or several weak moments. Your word hit me hard today. Thank you for speaking truth to my heart.
Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. I welcome you to come in and take over. You know my inmost desires and thoughts. May you increase my faith. I so want to please you. I want to believe with every ounce of my being.
I can feel your hand stretching me past the point of comfort. Still, I will follow you. I desire you. I would love to know where you are leading me. In someways, it feels, as if my heart is already there. Preparation. Time. Waiting.
LOVE.
Friday, February 16, 2007
From the princess herself
About the Daddy and Daughter Dance
We walked in the building and we got in line and took pictures. Then we went into the ballroom. We had to find table 49. And we found it. There were only two seats left. In my head I said awesome and perfect. So we sat down. We waited about ten minutes to get our food. Then I went to play with my balloon. Then the music started playing, I went to go and get daddy. I saw him talking to someone. I was about to tell him something, But Sarah (from my soccer team) came and told me that her dad was not dancing with her and she wanted me to get him to. So I walked over there and I said "As you may notice your daughter wants to dance with you and your talking. This is not a man to man talking place, this is a daddy and daughter dance." Then he went and danced with her. Then I went back to daddy and said "I will say exactly what I told Sarah's dad. This is not a man to man talking place this is a daddy and daughter dance." So we went and danced. Then we had to get our tickets and see if we won a prize. The we went back to dancing. Then they announced we have cookies and punch. Once again we have cookies and punch. So me and daddy went to get some. Then danced some more. Then came the chicken dance. Next was the marcarana dance. The next song was Jesus take the Wheel. Every little girl found their daddy and danced. Daddy and I went to dance at the back. Then we sat down. I looked in my bag and saw a yo yo. Then I went to get a cookie. I gave it to daddy for Valentine's Day. He put it in my bag. We went and danced some more. Then the last song came on. It was a slow song. It was butterfly kisses. When the song was over everyone went and got their stuff. That was the daddy and daughter dance story.
She came home from school today with this story in hand. I thought it was cute and worth letting you read. I copied exactly like she wrote it. I know a little girl who is in love with her daddy.
Photo Blogs
I love photography blogs! I could look at them all day. Would you share your favorites with me. I will have to restrain myself to not go crazy and stay on the computer all day.
Thanks.
Thanks.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Daddy & Daughter Dance
The girl was excited from the moment she woke up this morning. She walked straight in from school with complete intentions to bathe and primp for the whole afternoon. What fun we had. I am telling you I love that child beyond my own knowledge. To those of you that read yesterday's post...Thank you for letting me vent. It was just one of those days. I am so pleased that I was chosen to be this little girl's mom.
**Update**
I had to come and add this. They walked in the house from the party happy as ever. The sweet girl is now laying in her bed crying. Seriously. Why? She doesn't want this night to end. (she is so much like me) She said that she had the time of her life and danced her little heart out. My husband even did the marcarana in public. She is full tonight, Full of love. My little girl lived out her princess dreams tonight. The first of many to come.
To my Heavenly Father...thank you for the joy of this night. I am ever enthralled by you.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Ramblings from a mother's heart
I am sitting here with a heavy heart.
It seems we have hit this stage of stress between the girl and me. I, of course, love her to pieces. She seems to be struggling right now. It is affecting her school work and attitude. I desire her to feel like the true princess she is. The problem with that is she seems to be getting into trouble often. It seems like when she needs the most love she is getting the most grief. I feel like I end up hurting her more than helping her. My heart aches. She is growing up and her emotions are kind of crazy. This is really her first sense of girlie emotions.
This is where I need your prayers. Yes you, my readers, all 4 of you. I am a perfectionist of sorts and I tend to throw that onto her. I need to join a support group or something. She needs me to lavish love upon her but instead I am pushing her on to work harder. I want her to be the best she can be but please pray that I will keep that line sacred. She was a child that was certain about her place and strength. It seems that she has hit a wall of the unknown. The wall of "it is just too hard".
There is no greater purpose in my life than to be a mother to this child. Not just any mother, a good one. I want to model the love of Christ to her.
Tomorrow is a big day for her. She is going to the daddy/daughter dance. We have bought her a new outfit and to her greatest excitement dangly earrings.
We have a date set to look up new verses for her note cards. She already knows the amazing power of having God's word handy on a 3x5.
You may be wondering why I am writing this or even why you are reading this. It is weird. I am at a place in my life where I am without close friendships. I have a few close friends but they all live far away. Maybe that is why you are reading this, to be my friend for the day. I sound desperate, I know, at this point I guess I am.
One thing I am certain of...God is in control.
It seems we have hit this stage of stress between the girl and me. I, of course, love her to pieces. She seems to be struggling right now. It is affecting her school work and attitude. I desire her to feel like the true princess she is. The problem with that is she seems to be getting into trouble often. It seems like when she needs the most love she is getting the most grief. I feel like I end up hurting her more than helping her. My heart aches. She is growing up and her emotions are kind of crazy. This is really her first sense of girlie emotions.
This is where I need your prayers. Yes you, my readers, all 4 of you. I am a perfectionist of sorts and I tend to throw that onto her. I need to join a support group or something. She needs me to lavish love upon her but instead I am pushing her on to work harder. I want her to be the best she can be but please pray that I will keep that line sacred. She was a child that was certain about her place and strength. It seems that she has hit a wall of the unknown. The wall of "it is just too hard".
There is no greater purpose in my life than to be a mother to this child. Not just any mother, a good one. I want to model the love of Christ to her.
Tomorrow is a big day for her. She is going to the daddy/daughter dance. We have bought her a new outfit and to her greatest excitement dangly earrings.
We have a date set to look up new verses for her note cards. She already knows the amazing power of having God's word handy on a 3x5.
You may be wondering why I am writing this or even why you are reading this. It is weird. I am at a place in my life where I am without close friendships. I have a few close friends but they all live far away. Maybe that is why you are reading this, to be my friend for the day. I sound desperate, I know, at this point I guess I am.
One thing I am certain of...God is in control.
Valentine's Day
I just wanted to take a moment to write about my beautiful wife. She is my everything. I truly fall more and more in love with her every day! Through the years we have had our battles and our hard times but God has seen us through them and I believe that no matter how much I would NEVER want to experience those times again, we were made stronger because of them. There is absolutely no other way I would want to journey through life than with her! So wife, love of my life and mother of my children, here's to you. I love you!
Monday, February 12, 2007
Pretty Baby
The itch is ever present! The itch to for a baby. We are praying about adoption and God's timing. For a long time we have thought we were done and now God seems to be opening our hearts to prepare for another. Our children love the idea of adopting a brother or sister. It was actually Carly's idea. We are just waiting to see where God takes this desire. We are open Lord...
With that being said, I was able to babysit one of the most beautiful babies today. I snapped a few photos of her and here are my favorites.
With that being said, I was able to babysit one of the most beautiful babies today. I snapped a few photos of her and here are my favorites.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
To Bunko or Not to Bunko
I walked into the room and to my surprise I found ladies going crazy. There was hooping and hollering that could be heard from blocks away. What am I getting myself into? These days have been so busy that time needed with girlfriends is few and far between. Because of this I took the plunge and dropped into bunko night at my church.
I have gathered after the experience that I am just not a bunko kind of girl. I cannot really say why. Maybe it is the fact that I could not grab hold of the point of the game. I guess I am more of the coffee and conversation kind of girl. Does it matter that I do not like coffee? Can we just hang with the fact that I absolutely love the smell of Starbucks. I want to love it, I really do.
I played two rounds of this game which lasted 2 hours. The game I did not enjoy but the conversation I loved. There was a funny point in the night when we started talking about family lines and somehow my crazy story came up. I so need to share that with you. I promise I will when I get the time.
What I do know is the ladies present at this party love the game. They came with their game face on. It was every man (woman) for herself once the bell rang. I think there should be a rule that you have to check your nails at the door. Serious damage can be done when fighting over who get the dice first.
I was lucky enough to get a bunko (all the dice land on the certain number you are going for) for that I got the privilege to wear the pearl necklace until someone else got one. At the end of the night I was announced as the one who lost the most. Do you think that has something to do with the way I feel about the game?
It was great fun just to be around other women. I love to hang out and learn a little about my sisters. For that my night was well spent.
Will I ever play bunko again? I am just not sure. Bribe me with some friends and I will do almost anything! In that case I guess it is a yes...Or a maybe? *laughing*
I have gathered after the experience that I am just not a bunko kind of girl. I cannot really say why. Maybe it is the fact that I could not grab hold of the point of the game. I guess I am more of the coffee and conversation kind of girl. Does it matter that I do not like coffee? Can we just hang with the fact that I absolutely love the smell of Starbucks. I want to love it, I really do.
I played two rounds of this game which lasted 2 hours. The game I did not enjoy but the conversation I loved. There was a funny point in the night when we started talking about family lines and somehow my crazy story came up. I so need to share that with you. I promise I will when I get the time.
What I do know is the ladies present at this party love the game. They came with their game face on. It was every man (woman) for herself once the bell rang. I think there should be a rule that you have to check your nails at the door. Serious damage can be done when fighting over who get the dice first.
I was lucky enough to get a bunko (all the dice land on the certain number you are going for) for that I got the privilege to wear the pearl necklace until someone else got one. At the end of the night I was announced as the one who lost the most. Do you think that has something to do with the way I feel about the game?
It was great fun just to be around other women. I love to hang out and learn a little about my sisters. For that my night was well spent.
Will I ever play bunko again? I am just not sure. Bribe me with some friends and I will do almost anything! In that case I guess it is a yes...Or a maybe? *laughing*
Thursday, February 08, 2007
The Waiting Room
If you are a man you probably don't want to read this one!
The warm temperatures are gone. The sunny skies have given into a misty gray day. To be honest it has not been my favorite of days. I had to go to a Dr. appointment today. Yes you know the one. The one I dread all year long. I usually go in June, due to some abnormal tests results last June, I had to go back today.
My appointment was set for 10:00 a.m. I am almost positive that I got there right on time. I tell the nice lady at the counter my name and proceed to take my seat next to the fish tank. It was the only seat available. The room was full of women with big round bellies. Some days I miss that. Key word there is some. I don't know why but this day I chose to not thumb through the magazines. I guess I was just ready to get this over with and move on with more appealing aspects of the day. After a while the nice lady behind the desk tells me that the Dr. has gone to deliver a baby and would return in about 15 minutes. Really? 15 minutes and she will be back, that is quick!
So what did I do? I sat there some more...and some more. I couldn't get over the fact that I was waiting so long to go in and be humiliated beyond belief. It seems a little unreal. I ended up waiting for 1 hour and 15 minutes before I heard my name called. Forever.
To be honest I don't even know why I am writing about this. Sometimes I guess I just feel the need to talk.
The warm temperatures are gone. The sunny skies have given into a misty gray day. To be honest it has not been my favorite of days. I had to go to a Dr. appointment today. Yes you know the one. The one I dread all year long. I usually go in June, due to some abnormal tests results last June, I had to go back today.
My appointment was set for 10:00 a.m. I am almost positive that I got there right on time. I tell the nice lady at the counter my name and proceed to take my seat next to the fish tank. It was the only seat available. The room was full of women with big round bellies. Some days I miss that. Key word there is some. I don't know why but this day I chose to not thumb through the magazines. I guess I was just ready to get this over with and move on with more appealing aspects of the day. After a while the nice lady behind the desk tells me that the Dr. has gone to deliver a baby and would return in about 15 minutes. Really? 15 minutes and she will be back, that is quick!
So what did I do? I sat there some more...and some more. I couldn't get over the fact that I was waiting so long to go in and be humiliated beyond belief. It seems a little unreal. I ended up waiting for 1 hour and 15 minutes before I heard my name called. Forever.
To be honest I don't even know why I am writing about this. Sometimes I guess I just feel the need to talk.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Why do these interest me?
You think you know me?
Compliments of Jamie
Four jobs I have had in my life:
1. Movie Theater box office worker
2. Administrative Clerk
3. Chiropractic Assistant
4. Teacher Aide
Movies I would watch over and over:
5. Hope Floats
6. While you were sleeping
7. Beyond the Gates of Splendor (Documentary)
8. Ever After
*Honestly I am not a over and over movie watcher
Four places you have lived:
9. Abilene, Texas
10. Springfield, Missouri
11. New Caney, Texas
12. Humble, Texas
Four places you have been on vacation:
13. New Braunsfels
14. Possum Kingdom Lake (that still makes me laugh)
15. Los Angelas, California
16. Cozumel, Progresso (Cruise)
Four of my favorite foods are:
17. Avocados
18. Potatoes
19. Abuelos chicken enchilada
20. Olive Garden's Chicken Fettucinie
Four places I would rather be right now:
21. Vacation
22. On a great quite beach
23. Laying in a hammock
24. Listening to the soothing water and my children's laughter
Copy and paste on your own blog. Delete my answers and insert your own. Have fun!
Compliments of Jamie
Four jobs I have had in my life:
1. Movie Theater box office worker
2. Administrative Clerk
3. Chiropractic Assistant
4. Teacher Aide
Movies I would watch over and over:
5. Hope Floats
6. While you were sleeping
7. Beyond the Gates of Splendor (Documentary)
8. Ever After
*Honestly I am not a over and over movie watcher
Four places you have lived:
9. Abilene, Texas
10. Springfield, Missouri
11. New Caney, Texas
12. Humble, Texas
Four places you have been on vacation:
13. New Braunsfels
14. Possum Kingdom Lake (that still makes me laugh)
15. Los Angelas, California
16. Cozumel, Progresso (Cruise)
Four of my favorite foods are:
17. Avocados
18. Potatoes
19. Abuelos chicken enchilada
20. Olive Garden's Chicken Fettucinie
Four places I would rather be right now:
21. Vacation
22. On a great quite beach
23. Laying in a hammock
24. Listening to the soothing water and my children's laughter
Copy and paste on your own blog. Delete my answers and insert your own. Have fun!
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
The Bluest of Skies
It is the most beautiful day of 2007. Well at least to date. I have my doors open and all the blinds open wide. The sky is an amazing shade of blue. This day makes me so happy. You just may find me running up and down the streets. It is just so pleasant. The birds are chirping in our neighbor's trees. This yard does not have any trees. It was the one down fall to calling it our home. In our city you do not find many trees so be thankful for the ones around you. I am in a major itch for Spring to come.
Thinking of Spring always reminds me of projects to be done. We have some major work to do on our back yard. It is in some sad shape. Our students broke the kids swing set. I love them but they really break a lot of stuff. That is a whole other blog. We have not taken it down in hopes that we will just buy some new wood and fix it. REALLY? I just don't know if we will do it or not. We have an above ground pool that we purchased 3 years ago. We brought it with us to the new house and quickly put it up. Our kids live in this thing during the summer. After a few weeks we noticed some grass growing through the liner. The grass grew through 3 feet of sand to even reach the liner. After talking to the pool man we learned that this type of grass will grow through anything. Our pool is still standing out there, no water in it, it is just once again in seriously bad shape. We are going to fix that. I think we have to put down a cement floor then the sand. There is more to the "falling apart" back yard but I won't bore you with all the details. I am considering contacting Oprah for some extreme makeover help. Who knows maybe one day you will see me on the show.
I promise to enjoy this day to the fullest. This is a beautiful day that my Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad.
I am hoping that your day is equally beautiful.
Thinking of Spring always reminds me of projects to be done. We have some major work to do on our back yard. It is in some sad shape. Our students broke the kids swing set. I love them but they really break a lot of stuff. That is a whole other blog. We have not taken it down in hopes that we will just buy some new wood and fix it. REALLY? I just don't know if we will do it or not. We have an above ground pool that we purchased 3 years ago. We brought it with us to the new house and quickly put it up. Our kids live in this thing during the summer. After a few weeks we noticed some grass growing through the liner. The grass grew through 3 feet of sand to even reach the liner. After talking to the pool man we learned that this type of grass will grow through anything. Our pool is still standing out there, no water in it, it is just once again in seriously bad shape. We are going to fix that. I think we have to put down a cement floor then the sand. There is more to the "falling apart" back yard but I won't bore you with all the details. I am considering contacting Oprah for some extreme makeover help. Who knows maybe one day you will see me on the show.
I promise to enjoy this day to the fullest. This is a beautiful day that my Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad.
I am hoping that your day is equally beautiful.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Haircut
I am so happy to report that Saturday I got a new haircut. It seems to have been a long time now. I now have about a thousand different layers in my hair. You should have seen my hair when I woke up this morning. It would be safe to say HUGE! The curl was already falling out a little when Ernest shot these pictures for me. I am definitely a blogger now! I even put up my hair cut.
How was your Sunday?
Friday, February 02, 2007
Our little Guy
We are sitting on the couch watching some cartoons when Colton says to me..."Hey you want to see my name in the newspaper"..."Of course I do!" He gets up and goes to his room only to return with a cut out piece of newspaper.
Yesterday the CHOOSE program came to his school to talk about healthy eating. Colton told us about that but he left out the part about a reporter talking to him. Anyways he was interviewed and had some funny stuff to say. He said that he was going to cut down on his "usual" soda intake...He rarely ever has a soda. I could not help but laugh. Ever since yesterday he has been wearing a step counter trying to make it to his goal. I love it!
Yesterday the CHOOSE program came to his school to talk about healthy eating. Colton told us about that but he left out the part about a reporter talking to him. Anyways he was interviewed and had some funny stuff to say. He said that he was going to cut down on his "usual" soda intake...He rarely ever has a soda. I could not help but laugh. Ever since yesterday he has been wearing a step counter trying to make it to his goal. I love it!
Battlecry for THIS generation
Abilene Invasion went off great. We were humbled to see 1500-2000 parents and teens there. Worshiping together with churches from all around our community meant so much to me. I enjoyed every minute of it.
Ernest and I got to Beltway at noon for our first meeting of the day. We met Mike Guzzardo who was the speaker. He is amazing by the way. Great man of God. From that meeting on we were busy till the late hours of the night. Most of our time together was spent in prayer. All the area youth workers and Mike sat together, prayed, and read scripture over one another...It was amazing. We went into the building praying and walking around it. There was a moment when we were praying over the band that I saw my husband in a new way. His face was just glowing from sweet communion with his father. I fell in love with that man again. There were no barriers, no one cared who was there, who was watching them. As Baptists sometimes we are so closed, we are scared to look like... On this day we were not! Praise God. Leaving everything behind and following him. We cannot lead anyone where we are not going ourselves. So we press on.
This was our pep rally night to get others involved in our vision. Now it is time to start on the next phase of AI. I believe God was there and was doing his thing. What a privilege to sit back and watch him work...to praise him through every moment. I love HIM.
I sat next to Ernest (on one side) and Ana Simmons (Tim's wife) on the other. What great fun worshiping with a new friend. We have met on several occasions but this was the night where I finally was able to get to know her a bit. For one thing she is adorably pregnant. She will have her precious baby any moment. Another thing I learned about this woman...She loves our Lord. I love to serve the Lord with others. It is such a blast.
I have posted some pictures of the night. The battery in my camera went out so I was only able to get a few.
Ernest and I got to Beltway at noon for our first meeting of the day. We met Mike Guzzardo who was the speaker. He is amazing by the way. Great man of God. From that meeting on we were busy till the late hours of the night. Most of our time together was spent in prayer. All the area youth workers and Mike sat together, prayed, and read scripture over one another...It was amazing. We went into the building praying and walking around it. There was a moment when we were praying over the band that I saw my husband in a new way. His face was just glowing from sweet communion with his father. I fell in love with that man again. There were no barriers, no one cared who was there, who was watching them. As Baptists sometimes we are so closed, we are scared to look like... On this day we were not! Praise God. Leaving everything behind and following him. We cannot lead anyone where we are not going ourselves. So we press on.
This was our pep rally night to get others involved in our vision. Now it is time to start on the next phase of AI. I believe God was there and was doing his thing. What a privilege to sit back and watch him work...to praise him through every moment. I love HIM.
I sat next to Ernest (on one side) and Ana Simmons (Tim's wife) on the other. What great fun worshiping with a new friend. We have met on several occasions but this was the night where I finally was able to get to know her a bit. For one thing she is adorably pregnant. She will have her precious baby any moment. Another thing I learned about this woman...She loves our Lord. I love to serve the Lord with others. It is such a blast.
I have posted some pictures of the night. The battery in my camera went out so I was only able to get a few.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Eager Anticipation...
I feel somewhat like a little child the night before Christmas. I can remember as a child how the days before Christmas would seem to drag along as the anticipation of that exciting day approached. I could hardly stand it. I would get so excited and so ancy as I counted down the days. I still enjoy Christmas very much but it seems to come much more quickly now and the joy comes not from what I get or what's in it from me but from the joy of my wife and kids and those special moments that make memories.
Lately, however, I have somewhat experienced that childlike eager anticipation as we approach a very exciting and very important time tonight. I have had the privilege of being a part of the Abilene Youth Coalition which is a bunch of youth pastors from different denominations coming together to break down the walls that separate us and hinder us from fully accomplishing what God has for us. It has been a great experience with spiritual renewal. We began what we call Abilene Invasion. It is a plan to reach this generation to Christ. The statistics that represent this generation will jar you to the core. (You can see one of my wife's recent blogs for those or ask me and I will share them with you later)
Tonight we have our first major event called A-I Briefing. We are coming together and calling for all Christian students and concerned adults to come join us. It will be a night of eye opening, of heart breaking, a night that will call us to action. I feel that a spiritual revival is on the horizon and I want to be a part of that. In us, in Abilene, a big part of that starts tonight. All the meetings, all the preparation, all the planning comes to a head tonight. It's finally here! I can't wait to see what our Lord does! That little boy inside of me just wants to run in circles as the excitement builds. Pray for us and I will keep you posted!
To be continued....
Lately, however, I have somewhat experienced that childlike eager anticipation as we approach a very exciting and very important time tonight. I have had the privilege of being a part of the Abilene Youth Coalition which is a bunch of youth pastors from different denominations coming together to break down the walls that separate us and hinder us from fully accomplishing what God has for us. It has been a great experience with spiritual renewal. We began what we call Abilene Invasion. It is a plan to reach this generation to Christ. The statistics that represent this generation will jar you to the core. (You can see one of my wife's recent blogs for those or ask me and I will share them with you later)
Tonight we have our first major event called A-I Briefing. We are coming together and calling for all Christian students and concerned adults to come join us. It will be a night of eye opening, of heart breaking, a night that will call us to action. I feel that a spiritual revival is on the horizon and I want to be a part of that. In us, in Abilene, a big part of that starts tonight. All the meetings, all the preparation, all the planning comes to a head tonight. It's finally here! I can't wait to see what our Lord does! That little boy inside of me just wants to run in circles as the excitement builds. Pray for us and I will keep you posted!
To be continued....
Monday, January 29, 2007
Letting it go...
Is the feeling sluggish? Or is it in reality Satan?
Last week was a great week. I should have been looking for the enemies attack. Today has been a day of random focus. I should just be honest and say lack of focus. I am bogged down in the details of life. That is where Satan likes to keep me.
This week is set to be busy. Tonight we have the kids practices and Ernest has a meeting at Beltway for AI. I am looking forward to hearing the results of this meeting. (One of the area pastors wanted to get the coalition guys together because he feels he has a word for them.) Tomorrow night is "Becoming". Becoming is a girls ministry I started here in Abilene. Wednesday is Abilene Invasion Briefing, our city wide event. Thursday we have meetings for Fields of Faith and throw in a PTO meeting that afternoon. I have a lot of paperwork that is due this Friday for a PTO program at the kids school. Saturday we have a flag football tournament for our youth scheduled. Sunday we have our services and a super bowl party that afternoon.
My point for writing this...
I do not want to get so busy that my focus moves to the stuff and not on the person. Please keep me in your prayers. Pray for our family, especially our children, that we will be given the grace to love each other through this week. It is a tendency to look past the ones you love the most when you get busy. Pray that God would be huge to us and that we will spend time with him, even when there seems to be no time.
In the midst of this week, I still feel compelled to write and study while the babes are at school. Pray for my mind to focus on what he is leading me to do. I want to follow hard after Him. I love him so much. The desire is his...on most days I do not understand it. No matter, I still want to go there.
This seems so personal to share yet I feel so comfortable in letting it go.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation
of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord,
My Rock and my Redeemer.
Last week was a great week. I should have been looking for the enemies attack. Today has been a day of random focus. I should just be honest and say lack of focus. I am bogged down in the details of life. That is where Satan likes to keep me.
This week is set to be busy. Tonight we have the kids practices and Ernest has a meeting at Beltway for AI. I am looking forward to hearing the results of this meeting. (One of the area pastors wanted to get the coalition guys together because he feels he has a word for them.) Tomorrow night is "Becoming". Becoming is a girls ministry I started here in Abilene. Wednesday is Abilene Invasion Briefing, our city wide event. Thursday we have meetings for Fields of Faith and throw in a PTO meeting that afternoon. I have a lot of paperwork that is due this Friday for a PTO program at the kids school. Saturday we have a flag football tournament for our youth scheduled. Sunday we have our services and a super bowl party that afternoon.
My point for writing this...
I do not want to get so busy that my focus moves to the stuff and not on the person. Please keep me in your prayers. Pray for our family, especially our children, that we will be given the grace to love each other through this week. It is a tendency to look past the ones you love the most when you get busy. Pray that God would be huge to us and that we will spend time with him, even when there seems to be no time.
In the midst of this week, I still feel compelled to write and study while the babes are at school. Pray for my mind to focus on what he is leading me to do. I want to follow hard after Him. I love him so much. The desire is his...on most days I do not understand it. No matter, I still want to go there.
This seems so personal to share yet I feel so comfortable in letting it go.
of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord,
My Rock and my Redeemer.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Spontaneus?
It was a fun evening!
We went to see the movie Catch and Release with Jennifer Gardner. I liked it but that was the extent of my feelings. There were a few awkward moments here and there. I am all about a good chick flick. I had really high hopes for this one but...
We were walking out of the theater discussing our slight disappointment..."We should have seen 'Pursuit of Happiness'"..."Yes we should have"...
In that moment we decided to skip Olive Garden and see another movie. We purchased 2 tickets to Pursuit of Happiness and quickly got in the concession line. It felt great! I think that is the most spontaneous thing we have done in a while. I know it is very sad. What can I say we have two kids. We shared a coke, hot dog, and nachos for dinner. No it is not Olive Garden but it was so much fun.
By the way we loved the Pursuit of Happiness. Great Victory! It totally takes hold of your emotions and brings you in.
Great date night!
Debra
We went to see the movie Catch and Release with Jennifer Gardner. I liked it but that was the extent of my feelings. There were a few awkward moments here and there. I am all about a good chick flick. I had really high hopes for this one but...
We were walking out of the theater discussing our slight disappointment..."We should have seen 'Pursuit of Happiness'"..."Yes we should have"...
In that moment we decided to skip Olive Garden and see another movie. We purchased 2 tickets to Pursuit of Happiness and quickly got in the concession line. It felt great! I think that is the most spontaneous thing we have done in a while. I know it is very sad. What can I say we have two kids. We shared a coke, hot dog, and nachos for dinner. No it is not Olive Garden but it was so much fun.
By the way we loved the Pursuit of Happiness. Great Victory! It totally takes hold of your emotions and brings you in.
Great date night!
Debra
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Youth Statistics
National Statistics and then how is breaks down for Abilene (a city with a church on every corner)
We currently have 9,838 6-12th grade students in Abilene and Wylie alone.
1/3 of teenagers have been drunk in the last month = 3280 in Abilene
1/4 of teenagers have used illegal drugs = 2460 in Abilene
8,000 contract an STD (sexually transmitted disease) each day
340,000 abortions happen to teenagers each year
1/10 teenagers are raped = 984 in Abilene
14,000 sexual references will be seen by the average teenager this year
1/2 of all teenagers are no longer virgins = 4919 in Abilene
1500+ commit suicide each year
53% of teenagers believe that Jesus sinned = 5314 in Abilene
83% of teenagers believe that truth is relative = 8366 in Abilene
65% of teenagers say there is no way to tell which religion is true = 6395 in Abilene
1/5 of teenagers contemplate suicide = 1968 in Abilene
If something doesn't change in the way that we REACH teenagers, the statistics indicate that in just 5-7 short years we could see only 4% of this generation being bible-believing Christians.
What this tells me is that we need to get up and get working.
We currently have 9,838 6-12th grade students in Abilene and Wylie alone.
1/3 of teenagers have been drunk in the last month = 3280 in Abilene
1/4 of teenagers have used illegal drugs = 2460 in Abilene
8,000 contract an STD (sexually transmitted disease) each day
340,000 abortions happen to teenagers each year
1/10 teenagers are raped = 984 in Abilene
14,000 sexual references will be seen by the average teenager this year
1/2 of all teenagers are no longer virgins = 4919 in Abilene
1500+ commit suicide each year
53% of teenagers believe that Jesus sinned = 5314 in Abilene
83% of teenagers believe that truth is relative = 8366 in Abilene
65% of teenagers say there is no way to tell which religion is true = 6395 in Abilene
1/5 of teenagers contemplate suicide = 1968 in Abilene
If something doesn't change in the way that we REACH teenagers, the statistics indicate that in just 5-7 short years we could see only 4% of this generation being bible-believing Christians.
What this tells me is that we need to get up and get working.
Friday, January 26, 2007
"it"
We are at a crosspoint in our lives. The crosspoint of what I do not know. It is the strangest feeling. It is seriously a lot like being in a doctor's office waiting for your name to be called. These feeling have been with us for some time. More recently the seem to rise to our thoughts daily. Honestly more than daily...all day. When we sit together "it" is on our lips. Truly "it" is the overflow of our hearts.
Definition (by Debra)
"it"= the feeling of God changing us...drawing us away...closer to Him...preparing us for something...the overwhelming desire for the great adventure with him...the desire of our heart simply to do what he is calling us to do...the willingness to follow him anywhere...love that we really cannot fathom or explain...(it could go on and on).
Ernest is a part of the Abilene Youth Coalition. It is a group of Youth Pastors who get together once a week. They have the great privilege to go to the school campuses to meet and talk with students as well as pray over the campus in between lunches. Ernest is pretty new to the group but I can tell you that he has loved every minute of it. It has been great to talk with and pray with people who share a burden with you. We are all pumped to win Abilene for Christ. This generation is being lost. They have so much to deal with. This Wednesday we are having 'AI Briefing' which is going to be a big city wide service to get everyone aware of the needs around them. In doing this we hope to get people involved in reaching out to the next generation. Last week in church Ernest gave some statistics that totally blew people away. I will try to get them up for you. It really seems like the adult population is very unaware of what our teens are struggling with. If you would like to see more on this click here.
After the last meeting Ernest came home with some exciting news. One of the area youth pastors had stopped him with something to share. He began to talk to Ernest..."I don't know what you and your wife are dealing with but God has not taken you guys off my mind...Every time I looked at you I could see it in your face...Whatever it is...the time is coming...it is going to happen soon..." Of course that is not word for word. I was not there. One thing I know for sure is that God was. These men know nothing about what we have been talking about, God just wanted to show us that he does. We get so weary in the waiting room. We still have no idea what "it" is but we do know that "it" is real.
The vision at this point is to be communicators to youth. We have the great privilege to do that weekly at our church. For some reason God is growing that vision. We look at ourselves and think..."not us." What we have said to our God, we will follow you. I am currently writing a book for teen girls. I don't know how to do this. God is doing it. We dream of teaching together the very same principles that God himself taught to us. We both grew up as "Christians" and yet we missed the very point of that...relationship. Our students are missing that too. We would give our lives away so that they can know truth. If you want to know more about my story go here and find the link "my story".
I had such an urgency to share this today. I don't know why. This blog is intended as a journal for us. Our desire is to look back and see faithfulness. Wherever or whenever the "it" is, It will be by the leading of our Father. How I love him! What grace!
In love with Him,
Debra
Definition (by Debra)
"it"= the feeling of God changing us...drawing us away...closer to Him...preparing us for something...the overwhelming desire for the great adventure with him...the desire of our heart simply to do what he is calling us to do...the willingness to follow him anywhere...love that we really cannot fathom or explain...(it could go on and on).
Ernest is a part of the Abilene Youth Coalition. It is a group of Youth Pastors who get together once a week. They have the great privilege to go to the school campuses to meet and talk with students as well as pray over the campus in between lunches. Ernest is pretty new to the group but I can tell you that he has loved every minute of it. It has been great to talk with and pray with people who share a burden with you. We are all pumped to win Abilene for Christ. This generation is being lost. They have so much to deal with. This Wednesday we are having 'AI Briefing' which is going to be a big city wide service to get everyone aware of the needs around them. In doing this we hope to get people involved in reaching out to the next generation. Last week in church Ernest gave some statistics that totally blew people away. I will try to get them up for you. It really seems like the adult population is very unaware of what our teens are struggling with. If you would like to see more on this click here.
After the last meeting Ernest came home with some exciting news. One of the area youth pastors had stopped him with something to share. He began to talk to Ernest..."I don't know what you and your wife are dealing with but God has not taken you guys off my mind...Every time I looked at you I could see it in your face...Whatever it is...the time is coming...it is going to happen soon..." Of course that is not word for word. I was not there. One thing I know for sure is that God was. These men know nothing about what we have been talking about, God just wanted to show us that he does. We get so weary in the waiting room. We still have no idea what "it" is but we do know that "it" is real.
The vision at this point is to be communicators to youth. We have the great privilege to do that weekly at our church. For some reason God is growing that vision. We look at ourselves and think..."not us." What we have said to our God, we will follow you. I am currently writing a book for teen girls. I don't know how to do this. God is doing it. We dream of teaching together the very same principles that God himself taught to us. We both grew up as "Christians" and yet we missed the very point of that...relationship. Our students are missing that too. We would give our lives away so that they can know truth. If you want to know more about my story go here and find the link "my story".
I had such an urgency to share this today. I don't know why. This blog is intended as a journal for us. Our desire is to look back and see faithfulness. Wherever or whenever the "it" is, It will be by the leading of our Father. How I love him! What grace!
In love with Him,
Debra
Monday, January 22, 2007
WOW!
I think I just finished my first chapter for my first book. WOW! I have a lot of work still to do on it but I am so happy that this has been accomplished. God is so faithful! I just wanted to share...
Debra
Debra
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
grace
Oh the grace that covers me! I am so loved by my father in heaven. His grace is so much more than "enough". I am just sitting here writing and a great song came on the radio. I had to turn it up and sing along. Your grace covers me... I stand in awe of you...and honestly why you would do that for me.
So much more than enough...
in much love...
Debra
So much more than enough...
in much love...
Debra
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
I am so happy
I worked out this morning! If you only knew how much of an accomplishment that is. I so desire to do it yet I don't. I guess I cannot say that anymore because on this rare day, I did! I have been feeling so sluggish lately. I would love it if you would pray for me to continue working out.
I just needed to share that.
Off to study and write...
Debra
I just needed to share that.
Off to study and write...
Debra
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Dreaming of Sunny Days
This is my 5th consecutive day in the house. My kids have been sick but are now better. The temperature today is 22 and we have a major freeze going on. We decided that I should keep them in since they have just become well.
All that to say...I have cabin fever!
What to do with my time? I have been searching out condos on South Padre Island. That is where we would like to vacation this summer. It is not a far drive from Abilene and it is water. It meets my criteria. We camped last year (Ernest's choice) so the beach this year.
I am so ready for warm water and sun. It is sort of hard to plan when we don't know the dates of vacation yet. Our summers are usually very busy. I thought about going Spring Break but quickly changed my mind due to all the partying there.
I am just looking for a little beach house or condo hopefully on the water. I am trusting God to point us in the right direction. A place to go and revive our souls and love on the children.
Will you pray with me?
I know it may seem simple but I would appreciate it.
All that to say...I have cabin fever!
What to do with my time? I have been searching out condos on South Padre Island. That is where we would like to vacation this summer. It is not a far drive from Abilene and it is water. It meets my criteria. We camped last year (Ernest's choice) so the beach this year.
I am so ready for warm water and sun. It is sort of hard to plan when we don't know the dates of vacation yet. Our summers are usually very busy. I thought about going Spring Break but quickly changed my mind due to all the partying there.
I am just looking for a little beach house or condo hopefully on the water. I am trusting God to point us in the right direction. A place to go and revive our souls and love on the children.
Will you pray with me?
I know it may seem simple but I would appreciate it.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
my desire
Where you are going...I really do not know. What I do know is that I want to be there. Following you. I so desire to be with you. A great adventure with you. You have brought peace to my heart. I praise you for that. You are so much to me. You have brought me so far yet there is still far to go. I trust in you.
Help me to be careful to do what you have commanded. That I would keep on the right track not turning left or right of your direction. I want to walk in your way to the place that you desire me to be. I love that verse. I so thank you for giving it to me.
Prepare me for the steps ahead.
In love with you.
Debra
Help me to be careful to do what you have commanded. That I would keep on the right track not turning left or right of your direction. I want to walk in your way to the place that you desire me to be. I love that verse. I so thank you for giving it to me.
Prepare me for the steps ahead.
In love with you.
Debra
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Influenza type A
Colton has the flu. The doctor said that he has the worst kind. Not so much fun. He is so tired and weak. It is really hard to see him this way. Please keep him in your prayers. We are all on tamiflu now.
The thing he will be most upset about will be missing his first basketball game. Poor little guy.
His sweet little face was so sincere as we said our prayers tonight. God is so good! I know that he will bring comfort to my boy.
The thing he will be most upset about will be missing his first basketball game. Poor little guy.
His sweet little face was so sincere as we said our prayers tonight. God is so good! I know that he will bring comfort to my boy.
Monday, January 08, 2007
9 years already?
On this day 9 years ago, Carly graced us with her presence. I have never been the same. She changed me in so many ways. The amount of love that you have for your child is just not measurable. I was just trying to think of my life before Carly and to be honest there was not much of one. I had her at the young age of 21. I was so starry eyed about marriage and motherhood.
So many things about that day I will treasure always. The way I could not keep my eyes off her, the way we whispered when she slept, It was such a wonderful day. It was love at first sight. She was mine and I was hers...Forever. She looked so cute in her "bring home" outfit. Dressing her was all I dreamed about. I had found my place in life. Yes, that is how I felt.
She is growing so quickly. We walked the mall today and chatted the whole time. When did that happen? She loved every minute of this special day. Everyone she came in contact with knew that it was her birthday. She woke us this morning saying, "Come on guys, you are burning daylight on my birthday...get up."
I love that little girl. She is my favorite girl in the whole world. How very lucky I am.
Thank you Father for entrusting me with this precious child. I adore her. Teach me how you desire her to be loved. Grow her love for you. Leaning on you.
//debra//
Thursday, January 04, 2007
inmost thoughts
The great adventure.
I long for it daily.
I dream about you.
It requires much faith.
Believing big.
//Debra//
I long for it daily.
I dream about you.
It requires much faith.
Believing big.
//Debra//
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Home Improvements 2
Here are some pictures of our recent home improvement projects. The are "mostly" finished.
The Kitchen:
We painted the cabinets & the walls. Later we are going to change the lighting.
The Loft:
We painted the walls, bought a futon, created a desk (for me) & got an extra t.v. for gaming/cartoons.
The Kitchen:
We painted the cabinets & the walls. Later we are going to change the lighting.
The Loft:
We painted the walls, bought a futon, created a desk (for me) & got an extra t.v. for gaming/cartoons.
Wisdom for 2007
This is something that I posted in my devo blog...I thought I would share it here...enjoy.
Proverbs 3
1 My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands
in your heart, 2 for they will prolong your life many
years and bring you prosperity. 3 Let love and faithfulness
never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them
on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a
good name in the sight of God and man. 5 Trust in the Lord
with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make
your paths straight.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and
shun evil. 8 This will bring health to your body and
nourishment to your bones. 9 Honor the Lord with
your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; 10 then your
barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over
with new wine. 11 My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline
and do not resent his rebuke, 12 because the Lord disciplines
those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.
13 Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man
who gains understanding, 14 for she is more profitable
than silver and yields better returns than gold. 15 She
is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can
compare with her. 16 Long life is in her right hand; in her
left hand are riches and honor. 17 Her ways are pleasant
ways, and all her paths are peace. 18 She is a tree of life to
those who embrace her; those who lay hold of her will be
blessed. 19 By wisdom the Lord laid the earth's foundations,
by understanding he set the heavens in place; 20 by his
knowledge the deeps were divided, and the clouds
let drop the dew.
21 My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment,
do not let them out of your sight; 22 they will be life
for you, an ornament to grace your neck. 23 Then
you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will
not stumble; 24 when you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. 25 Have no
fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the
wicked, 26 for the Lord will be your confidence and will
keep your foot from being snared.
27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when
it is in your power to act. 28 Do not say to your neighbor,
"Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow"-- when you now have
it with you. 29 Do not plot harm against your neighbor,
who lives trustfully near you. 30 Do not accuse a man
for no reason-- when he has done you no harm. 31 Do
not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways, 32 for
the Lord detests a perverse man but takes the upright into
his confidence. 33 The Lord's curse is on the house of the
wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. 34 He
mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.
35 The wise inherit honor, but fools he holds up to shame.
In this new year I beg you to change my heart and make it more like yours. I love your word. Your grace in my life has been great and I am thankful. A debt that I can never repay. I sit in awe of your presence and goodness. You, who are the one who can fulfill my inmost desires,I love. I so desire you. More of you and less of me.
In great love.
Proverbs 3
1 My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands
in your heart, 2 for they will prolong your life many
years and bring you prosperity. 3 Let love and faithfulness
never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them
on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a
good name in the sight of God and man. 5 Trust in the Lord
with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make
your paths straight.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and
shun evil. 8 This will bring health to your body and
nourishment to your bones. 9 Honor the Lord with
your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; 10 then your
barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over
with new wine. 11 My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline
and do not resent his rebuke, 12 because the Lord disciplines
those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.
13 Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man
who gains understanding, 14 for she is more profitable
than silver and yields better returns than gold. 15 She
is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can
compare with her. 16 Long life is in her right hand; in her
left hand are riches and honor. 17 Her ways are pleasant
ways, and all her paths are peace. 18 She is a tree of life to
those who embrace her; those who lay hold of her will be
blessed. 19 By wisdom the Lord laid the earth's foundations,
by understanding he set the heavens in place; 20 by his
knowledge the deeps were divided, and the clouds
let drop the dew.
21 My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment,
do not let them out of your sight; 22 they will be life
for you, an ornament to grace your neck. 23 Then
you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will
not stumble; 24 when you lie down, you will not be afraid;
when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. 25 Have no
fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the
wicked, 26 for the Lord will be your confidence and will
keep your foot from being snared.
27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when
it is in your power to act. 28 Do not say to your neighbor,
"Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow"-- when you now have
it with you. 29 Do not plot harm against your neighbor,
who lives trustfully near you. 30 Do not accuse a man
for no reason-- when he has done you no harm. 31 Do
not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways, 32 for
the Lord detests a perverse man but takes the upright into
his confidence. 33 The Lord's curse is on the house of the
wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. 34 He
mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.
35 The wise inherit honor, but fools he holds up to shame.
In this new year I beg you to change my heart and make it more like yours. I love your word. Your grace in my life has been great and I am thankful. A debt that I can never repay. I sit in awe of your presence and goodness. You, who are the one who can fulfill my inmost desires,I love. I so desire you. More of you and less of me.
In great love.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Snow Lift 2006
What great fun!
It has been a busy week. We went to Springfield, Mo. for Snow Lift Winter Camp. It is a long trip from Abilene to Springfield. Our students didn't mind the 12 hour bus ride. They will do almost anything to have a good time.
What can I say, I love camp! I wonder if I will ever grow out of it? It is not the activities for me...I could live without dodge ball. The presence of God is so present there. It is time when our students hold nothing back. They worship their father like no one else is watching. For a moment nothing else matters to them. I love that! In that place worship is so free. Why can it be like that when we get home? The weight of judgmental eyes on them is much. Oh Lord please teach us all to love more and worship freely.
I still stand amazed at why God has allowed me to minister to girls. I feel honored and humbled. I love them. When their heart breaks I am right there with them. Their tear stained face in the act of surrender is so beautiful. Thank you God for allowing me see your handiwork. You love them so much and I get to experience you lavish it on them. How amazing you are. Those moments are priceless.
Ernest also spoke at a break out session. He titled it "Don't Fight Naked". I was in the girls sessions but I heard that he did a great job. He spoke about being spiritually prepared to fight the daily battle. He gave the guys some practical advice and tips to use everyday. I love that man and I am very proud of him.
//debra//
It has been a busy week. We went to Springfield, Mo. for Snow Lift Winter Camp. It is a long trip from Abilene to Springfield. Our students didn't mind the 12 hour bus ride. They will do almost anything to have a good time.
What can I say, I love camp! I wonder if I will ever grow out of it? It is not the activities for me...I could live without dodge ball. The presence of God is so present there. It is time when our students hold nothing back. They worship their father like no one else is watching. For a moment nothing else matters to them. I love that! In that place worship is so free. Why can it be like that when we get home? The weight of judgmental eyes on them is much. Oh Lord please teach us all to love more and worship freely.
I still stand amazed at why God has allowed me to minister to girls. I feel honored and humbled. I love them. When their heart breaks I am right there with them. Their tear stained face in the act of surrender is so beautiful. Thank you God for allowing me see your handiwork. You love them so much and I get to experience you lavish it on them. How amazing you are. Those moments are priceless.
Ernest also spoke at a break out session. He titled it "Don't Fight Naked". I was in the girls sessions but I heard that he did a great job. He spoke about being spiritually prepared to fight the daily battle. He gave the guys some practical advice and tips to use everyday. I love that man and I am very proud of him.
//debra//
Monday, December 25, 2006
Grandparents: round 2
Thank you Nana, Papaw and Grandma Harp!
Did they really need anymore? Here are yet more pictures of the kids opening presents. They loved all the gifts. At this moment Ernest and Colton are playing Atari and Carly is playing with her Barbie. I have used the camera all day...thank you so much for giving that to us. We still need to really learn how to use it.
Here is a message from the kids...
No more pictures today...I am tired.
Did they really need anymore? Here are yet more pictures of the kids opening presents. They loved all the gifts. At this moment Ernest and Colton are playing Atari and Carly is playing with her Barbie. I have used the camera all day...thank you so much for giving that to us. We still need to really learn how to use it.
Here is a message from the kids...
No more pictures today...I am tired.
Grandparents: round 1
Grandma & Grandpa Guerrero we love you!
Thank you so much for these gifts. We love them.
Thank you so much for these gifts. We love them.
Santa was here!
The kids woke-up with screams this morning...He came...He came!!
To all our family...
We miss you and wish we could be with you. Enjoy our pictures. It is our way of bringing you here with us. Hug each other a few extra times for us. Know that you are loved and thought of on this special day.
Here is what Santa left the kids...
To all our family...
We miss you and wish we could be with you. Enjoy our pictures. It is our way of bringing you here with us. Hug each other a few extra times for us. Know that you are loved and thought of on this special day.
Here is what Santa left the kids...
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Christmas Eve
It has been a great day! Christmas Eve, the night before the Savior's birth. What things we have to ponder. What was Mary thinking on this night so long ago? What about Joseph and all that he had to endure. Did he have a clue about babies or the knowledge of how to assist in a birth. What strength and peace our God gave them that precious night.
I will never forget the night before my babies were born. In both instances I was having contractions and knew full well what was to come...my baby. The thoughts that consumed my mind were great, small, fearful, and amazing. I had no real idea just how much my life was going to change. I just cannot seem to get Mary out of my mind. It is just something about being a mom that makes you connect with another. Her tender heart who must have loved much. She was chosen among so many. What an amazing woman, the mother of my Savior, Mary.
Tonight the kids opened their presents from us. I posted a slide show with some of the pictures we took. It was a lot of fun. They enjoyed every gift that was given. The best part of the night was listening to them read us the "Christmas Story" out of their own bibles. Oh how I love those two crazy kids.
//debra//
I will never forget the night before my babies were born. In both instances I was having contractions and knew full well what was to come...my baby. The thoughts that consumed my mind were great, small, fearful, and amazing. I had no real idea just how much my life was going to change. I just cannot seem to get Mary out of my mind. It is just something about being a mom that makes you connect with another. Her tender heart who must have loved much. She was chosen among so many. What an amazing woman, the mother of my Savior, Mary.
Tonight the kids opened their presents from us. I posted a slide show with some of the pictures we took. It was a lot of fun. They enjoyed every gift that was given. The best part of the night was listening to them read us the "Christmas Story" out of their own bibles. Oh how I love those two crazy kids.
//debra//
Saturday, December 23, 2006
The Holidays
My beautiful wife never thought I would post on here so this is for her. I actually have posted a few times on Myspace but not here. These will just be some general thoughts, nothing too profound. I am just sitting here with my family, 2 nights away from Christmas, enjoying every bit of it. It's cold outside, warm inside...there's a fire in the fireplace, Mary Poppins on the TV, and cookies in the oven. My son and I went shopping for my wife yesterday and today. We had a lot of fun. The stores were busting at the seams, we had to park a mile away from the doors, but it was all worth it. We made a game of keeping mom from finding out what we got her. I even had him convinced that she hid a spy microphone in the truck in order to find out what we got her.
Then today while we were driving he saw a beggar on the side of the road and asked if I had any money to give him. I told him I didn't have anything to which he replied, "Yes you do dad, you have a coat on, a hat, a truck...you actually have a lot so don't say that..." What truth is spoken from the mouths of children sometimes. Most of us have so much without even allowing ourselves to realize it. We focus on what we don't have instead of the things we do.
We're having Christmas here by ourselves instead of going to Houston like every year before. We will miss our family but it will be nice to just spend some quality time with each other for a few days.
Anyways, I am just rambling so I will bring it to a close. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!
Then today while we were driving he saw a beggar on the side of the road and asked if I had any money to give him. I told him I didn't have anything to which he replied, "Yes you do dad, you have a coat on, a hat, a truck...you actually have a lot so don't say that..." What truth is spoken from the mouths of children sometimes. Most of us have so much without even allowing ourselves to realize it. We focus on what we don't have instead of the things we do.
We're having Christmas here by ourselves instead of going to Houston like every year before. We will miss our family but it will be nice to just spend some quality time with each other for a few days.
Anyways, I am just rambling so I will bring it to a close. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!
Friday, December 22, 2006
Rocking around the Christmas Party
We have partied hard this last week. Wednesday was spent doing parties for the kids classes at school. I was there from 9-3 p.m. We also had our youth Christmas party wed. night at the SMB while the kids were celebrating with their awana group.
The kids are now out of school. We are looking forward to resting for a few days. Christmas is coming. The birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We will spend our time sharing in the gifts that he has given to us.
Giving is great...do some more.
We still have time to spread some vicious glee.
The kids are now out of school. We are looking forward to resting for a few days. Christmas is coming. The birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We will spend our time sharing in the gifts that he has given to us.
Giving is great...do some more.
We still have time to spread some vicious glee.
Santa and the top readers
This week Colton was honored to be one of the 4 top readers in second grade. He brought home this letter addressed to "the parents of Colton Parker" with great anticipation. We opened it and informed him of the great news. It was a contest he had been working toward and now he was declared a winner. This honor meant a lot to him and we were happy that he met his goal. Here are some pictures from his reward,Breakfast with Santa.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
a time for rest
Sunday a day of rest?
For us Sunday is the busiest day of the week. We both teach Sunday morning core group and then love to participate in our church's worship service. After services we went to lunch at Abuelo's for our youth staff Christmas lunch. It was a great time and amazing food. My kiddos however were acting nutty the entire time. We went home for a brief hour and tried to rest and relax. Soon enough we were off to church for a sno-lift meeting which Ernest was in charge of. The kids also performed in the kid's Christmas show tonight. I will post a few pics from that. We are now home and trying to wind down from such an active day. Sometimes winding down is the hardest thing to do.
All the rambling to say this...
The kids did a great job. Carly was the part of Mary. She took one of her cabbage patch dolls and swaddled him up and he became baby Jesus. After practice last night she even took him to Long John Silver's and introduced people to Jesus. You should have seen the looks that she got. Colton did wonderful singing and dancing. It was evident that he was having a good time. I really enjoyed watching them tonight. God ministered to my heart but that will be for another blog when my mind is more centered.
Happy Sunday...enjoy!
i love this woman...mary harness!
For us Sunday is the busiest day of the week. We both teach Sunday morning core group and then love to participate in our church's worship service. After services we went to lunch at Abuelo's for our youth staff Christmas lunch. It was a great time and amazing food. My kiddos however were acting nutty the entire time. We went home for a brief hour and tried to rest and relax. Soon enough we were off to church for a sno-lift meeting which Ernest was in charge of. The kids also performed in the kid's Christmas show tonight. I will post a few pics from that. We are now home and trying to wind down from such an active day. Sometimes winding down is the hardest thing to do.
All the rambling to say this...
The kids did a great job. Carly was the part of Mary. She took one of her cabbage patch dolls and swaddled him up and he became baby Jesus. After practice last night she even took him to Long John Silver's and introduced people to Jesus. You should have seen the looks that she got. Colton did wonderful singing and dancing. It was evident that he was having a good time. I really enjoyed watching them tonight. God ministered to my heart but that will be for another blog when my mind is more centered.
Happy Sunday...enjoy!
i love this woman...mary harness!
Sunday, December 10, 2006
80's night...yeah baby!!!
This year for the companion Christmas party we all decided to go 80's. It was great fun! We had to search our closets with utmost creativity. What can we turn into 80's cool? I didn't just want to be 80's but I wanted to be cool. We also played the dirty Santa game and I won a Rubik's cube. Has anyone ever figured one of those things out? It was great to hang out with the young marrieds at our church. I don't think we really qualify to be in that class. We are 30 and we have been married for 10 years...good grief.
Here are some pictures of us "back in the 80's"...
Here are some pictures of us "back in the 80's"...
I am going to miss her...my friend marcie.
Friday, December 08, 2006
home improvement skills
Project 1: The kitchen
I can see in the kitchen cabinets. It is hard to handle. The project is far from being done yet we have high hopes that we will finish tomorrow. Great hope. Our cabinets were in need of a new finish. Ernest put in wainscoting from the cabinet to the top of the wall. That looks really good. He is now painting them black. We are hoping that is comes out good. I am a little nervous about the black. I would love to have stainless appliances now. They would look great against the black cabinets.
Project 2: The loft
I painted the walls upstairs last Saturday. It is the same coffee color that the rest of our house is painted in. We are in the process of redoing upstairs into a bonus family room. A futon will go up there for when we have company in town. They will appreciate the upgrade from the good ole air mattress. Tomorrow we need to finish changing out the plugs from the classic tan to white.
***Interruption***Ernest just came in from getting something out of his truck and to our amazement...we were hit! The life and times of a youth pastor. This is the fifteenth hundredth time our house has been wrapped. Usually we are sleeping while it happens. Can you believe it...we were just sitting here in the living room. When Ernest went out they must have thought they were getting caught because they speedily drove away and might I add honking all the way. I guess we have one more thing to do tomorrow. Ernest's truck was wrapped in foil, kite string strung along the yard, and of course toilet paper in our lonely trees. I hope you enjoy the pic of this memorable event. It is pretty dark so you can't see the full damage.
Too funny.
I can see in the kitchen cabinets. It is hard to handle. The project is far from being done yet we have high hopes that we will finish tomorrow. Great hope. Our cabinets were in need of a new finish. Ernest put in wainscoting from the cabinet to the top of the wall. That looks really good. He is now painting them black. We are hoping that is comes out good. I am a little nervous about the black. I would love to have stainless appliances now. They would look great against the black cabinets.
Project 2: The loft
I painted the walls upstairs last Saturday. It is the same coffee color that the rest of our house is painted in. We are in the process of redoing upstairs into a bonus family room. A futon will go up there for when we have company in town. They will appreciate the upgrade from the good ole air mattress. Tomorrow we need to finish changing out the plugs from the classic tan to white.
***Interruption***Ernest just came in from getting something out of his truck and to our amazement...we were hit! The life and times of a youth pastor. This is the fifteenth hundredth time our house has been wrapped. Usually we are sleeping while it happens. Can you believe it...we were just sitting here in the living room. When Ernest went out they must have thought they were getting caught because they speedily drove away and might I add honking all the way. I guess we have one more thing to do tomorrow. Ernest's truck was wrapped in foil, kite string strung along the yard, and of course toilet paper in our lonely trees. I hope you enjoy the pic of this memorable event. It is pretty dark so you can't see the full damage.
Too funny.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
The growing girl and christmas gifts
We have been going back and forth about what our (almost) 9 year old daughter wants for Christmas. She says one thing and then it changes. This is so not like her. She is really in that in between stage of babyish things and more sophisticated toys. She started out "really" wanting baby alive. She thought that it would really feel like she was a mom if she had to change dirty diapers. Although after last night talking it over she decided that she would rather have amazing allysen. I did some research on that doll today and she is for ages 4-8. Her cost is about 70.00. My dilemma is that I do not want to purchase this doll and her end up not enjoying it.
She is also in love with Limited too. She has a few gifts under the tree from there and she is already talking about what they could be. I just don't know if we are ready to make the plunge into mp3 players and 'are you kidding me' phones and text messaging tools. She is too young for this... right! I am sensing that feeling of not letting her grow older without a fight.
Last night we rode home with Kerrie and her mom from cheer leading practice. I heard Carly telling Kerrie that she didn't like dolls anymore. WHAT??? She loves dolls. Just last week I found her with about 10 of them on our couch. She said that they were all on a plane ride to Antarctica and they were watching the in flight movie. I later asked her about what she told Kerrie and she said that Kerrie would laugh at her if she knew that she still liked dolls.
Okay I know I am rambling about this but really...
What should I do? Should I spend the money on amazing allysen and not worry if she grows out of it too quickly. We don't usually spend a lot of money at Christmas. Our son is already receiving a PS2. This is going in our family room and really for the whole fam. We have pushed games away for so long but now he is really interested. His Leapster is just not getting played anymore. What can I say our kids hang out with our teens.
She is also in love with Limited too. She has a few gifts under the tree from there and she is already talking about what they could be. I just don't know if we are ready to make the plunge into mp3 players and 'are you kidding me' phones and text messaging tools. She is too young for this... right! I am sensing that feeling of not letting her grow older without a fight.
Last night we rode home with Kerrie and her mom from cheer leading practice. I heard Carly telling Kerrie that she didn't like dolls anymore. WHAT??? She loves dolls. Just last week I found her with about 10 of them on our couch. She said that they were all on a plane ride to Antarctica and they were watching the in flight movie. I later asked her about what she told Kerrie and she said that Kerrie would laugh at her if she knew that she still liked dolls.
Okay I know I am rambling about this but really...
What should I do? Should I spend the money on amazing allysen and not worry if she grows out of it too quickly. We don't usually spend a lot of money at Christmas. Our son is already receiving a PS2. This is going in our family room and really for the whole fam. We have pushed games away for so long but now he is really interested. His Leapster is just not getting played anymore. What can I say our kids hang out with our teens.
Monday, December 04, 2006
date night
Saturday night was so much fun. It seems like it has been a while since our last date. We went to eat at Fugi. It is no Nakato but it is good food and fun entertainment. The chef even popped shrimp into some of the guests mouths. He asked me if I wanted this done...NO thank you...! That is just not for me. Seriously, I am surprised that Ernest didn't go for it. We left there completely stuffed.
We decided that we would drop by the mall to do some Christmas shopping. We ended up staying there until 10pm. We didn't purchase much just some stocking stuffers and presents from my mom to my kids. She gave me the money to buy them gifts from her since we are not going to make it home for Christmas. The kids will love what we picked out. Carly got 2 things from limited too (her fav. store). She was so thrilled to see the boxes under the tree. Colton got some great finds at game stop. Santa is bringing him a PS2. I still cannot believe that Santa is doing that!
We didn't make our usual stop at Starbucks on the way home. We were still too full from dinner. After we got home we wrapped presents for what seemed like an eternity. (Ernest's mom and grandma sent their gifts home with us after thanksgiving.) We still have yet to buy anything and under our tree is full. There really is no need for more.
Lots of rambling to say this...I am so thankful for my sweet husband. He romances me to this day. To be with him brings joy to my heart. I am love with that man.
We decided that we would drop by the mall to do some Christmas shopping. We ended up staying there until 10pm. We didn't purchase much just some stocking stuffers and presents from my mom to my kids. She gave me the money to buy them gifts from her since we are not going to make it home for Christmas. The kids will love what we picked out. Carly got 2 things from limited too (her fav. store). She was so thrilled to see the boxes under the tree. Colton got some great finds at game stop. Santa is bringing him a PS2. I still cannot believe that Santa is doing that!
We didn't make our usual stop at Starbucks on the way home. We were still too full from dinner. After we got home we wrapped presents for what seemed like an eternity. (Ernest's mom and grandma sent their gifts home with us after thanksgiving.) We still have yet to buy anything and under our tree is full. There really is no need for more.
Lots of rambling to say this...I am so thankful for my sweet husband. He romances me to this day. To be with him brings joy to my heart. I am love with that man.
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