Sometimes a song comes along and it just reaches deep into my heart... Jeremy Camp has always been one of my favorite artists. I love the harmonies and the woman singing in this song at the end. Sometimes I am hardened... it's easy to become hardened in this world when you are constantly battling to do the right thing. This song melts away that wall I often put up and reminds me exactly Where to put my trust.... thank You, Lord.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Blog Break & Gifts to Add...
I know I haven't been writing much on here. I just haven't felt like it. However, today I went for an hour-long walk around a lake and had lots of time to think and ponder.... and add to my Gifts & Gratitude list.
426. Sun reflected on the water
427. The beautiful green color on the duck's head
428. Ability to walk
429. Yellow & white flowers
430. Cool breeze of the wind
431. Babies carried in their dad's backpack
432. Hiking a mountain
433. Photography - being able to capture a moment
434. The chatter of ducks as they waddle along
435. Deep blue skies
436. Wispy clouds
437. Ache of muscles weary from exercise
438. Beat of a drum...and fingers tapping..and all things percussion
426. Sun reflected on the water
427. The beautiful green color on the duck's head
428. Ability to walk
429. Yellow & white flowers
430. Cool breeze of the wind
431. Babies carried in their dad's backpack
432. Hiking a mountain
433. Photography - being able to capture a moment
434. The chatter of ducks as they waddle along
435. Deep blue skies
436. Wispy clouds
437. Ache of muscles weary from exercise
438. Beat of a drum...and fingers tapping..and all things percussion
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Hope Now
I kind of had a bad day today... nothing earth-shattering... just stressful... so I went for a walk and put my earbuds in and tuned into my Pandora station... this was the first song that came on and it just lifted my spirit and more of a pep in my step.... I love how music speaks to me....
Friday, March 25, 2011
Numbers 423-425.... and counting...
423. Today (03/25/11), after my visit with Sandy (while she was here for her dad’s funeral), Nathan asked me how my visit went. Then, later tonight after Sarah’s CYT audition, he asked her how her audition went. Sweet, thoughtful boy. J
424. Precious time with one of my best friends, Sandy… so glad I could spend some time with her today, even though it was short.
425. Sarah’s audition tonight…. What a blessing to see her grow over these past few years…. Whether or not she is cast in the show, it’s a wonderful experience and opportunity.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Little Things
Today, it was the little things that I seemed to be keenly aware of.... some scattered flowers in the midst of a field of weeds... the company of other moms at Sarah's soccer practice tonight.... "normalcy"... whatever that is anymore.
After the diagnosis of my dad having stage 4 cancer, I have struggled to get through the last few days. Not living near him and having to come back home after a short visit was very difficult and today was the first day that things felt "normal". I was sent work to do. Sarah had soccer practice and Ryan had drum lessons. Yes... "normalcy".
After the diagnosis of my dad having stage 4 cancer, I have struggled to get through the last few days. Not living near him and having to come back home after a short visit was very difficult and today was the first day that things felt "normal". I was sent work to do. Sarah had soccer practice and Ryan had drum lessons. Yes... "normalcy".
Monday, February 28, 2011
Gifts & Gratitude
I started this list approximately a year ago after a friend of mine challenged me to join her in creating a list of God's gifts of grace. I stopped writing on this list in August 2010 at Number 412. I have just started reading a book, One Thousand Gifts, from where this list idea came. Today, February 28th, 2011, I will take up the habit again to seek out God's gifts in everyday and to be grateful for our days.
1. God's patience towards me, even when I am not patient with Him
2. God's faithfulness towards me, even when I am not faithful to Him
3. His Salvation based on Grace alone in Jesus Christ
4. God's gift to know Him here on earth and eternally
5. God's Word given to me through the Bible so I may know His truths
6. God's Love for me, even though I fall short
7. God's grace... His undeserved mercy
May this "task" of remembering and recording God's Gifts of Grace to me continually turn me towards Him, the Maker and Author of my Salvation, and no matter what is going on around me, I can rest in Him always.
8. My husband - loves me despite all my flaws
9. Ryan, my multi-talented amazing son who always leads me to think about things I've never thought of before - loves me despite all my flaws
10. Nathan, my multi-talented amazing son who makes me laugh everyday - loves me despite all my flaws
11. Sarah, my multi-talented beautiful daughter who loves life - loves me despite all my flaws
12. My mom, who has become my best friend in this world
13. My dad, who I miss greatly
14. My grandma, who I am blessed to still have in my life
15. Jim and his willingness to step in and be a part of my children's lives
16. My stepmom - her laugh is infectious
17. FREEDOM ~ I'm so grateful to live in theUnited States
18. The freedom to homeschool - God's grace
19. The flexibility available to me as we homeschool. Sarah had a soccer practice until 9 p.m. last night. By the time we got home and she showered and dried her hair and got in bed, it was almost 10 p.m! I was able to let her sleep in today before doing school.
20. Living inSan Diego
21. Our house, our home - God's provision.
22. My true-blue, longest friend, Wendy. Through life's ups and downs, our friendship's remained. (And it was her idea to do this Gifts of Grace list).
23. One of my dearest and closest friends, Sandy. Even though she lives in another state than me, we are in constant contact through email. I love the honesty and transparency in our friendship.
24. Technology! #23 above reminded me of the gift of technology and how blessed I am to be able to keep in touch with friends and family from afar through email and Facebook, this blog, etc.
25. Joyce. A blessed friend in the Lord. I've known her since our children were all babies and toddlers and our friendship has just blossomed over the years. I'm grateful for my partner in prayer and homeschooling!
26. Judith. Always pointing me to Jesus. I love that about her.
27.Shannon . Another homeschool friend and sister in Christ. I'm thankful God brought us together. I am grateful we get to teach in our co-op together.
28. The other friends in my life, even those who may have come and gone, who have touched me in different ways and helped to shape me into who God wants me to be.*******
Today I have felt discouraged and distracted by the enemy who wants to rob me of the Joy I have in Christ. So my list today are things that are things that I must choose to be grateful for even though I may not always feel like it.
29. Work. With our economy what it is and so many people out of work, I choose to be grateful for the work sent to me even though I don't feel like working... there are other things I'd rather be doing right now.
30. The ability to work at home. It is a difficult thing to work from home. There are many distractions always pulling at you. But I choose to be grateful to work from home.
31. My van. It is in need of some work. It's breaking down and it has a manufacturer's recall on it. That means I have to find the time in my busy week to take my van in and drop it off for two hours so the dealership can fix whatever it is that's caused the recall. It also means money out of our pocket on the other problem (unrelated to the recall) that we need to get fixed.
32. My husband is willing to go to church with me.
33. I'm soooooooooooooooo behind in scrapbooking and do not see a time in my future where I will even be able to work on it. But that means I have lots of photographs of lots of memories. That's a gift.
34. Times of uncertainty and insecurity in my ability to continue homeschooling my children. Yes, that is a gift of grace. It teaches me to lean upon my God who has promised to guide and equip me as long as I follow Him.
35. Never-ending laundry. Sigh. I truly get so tired of what feels like always doing laundry. But really, this is a gift because it means I have a family to serve and take care of. That's a gift and a blessing.
********
36. Rain
37. Lying in my warm, cozy bed this morning watching the rain
38. Seeing God's work in my child's heart
39. Music
40. Especially worship music and how it can lift my soul
41. A garage to park my van in when it's raining
42. Healthy food to make homemade soup
43. God's protection ~ I've had my van for seven years. Last week, I get a letter in the mail from Ford saying there is a recall on it because there is something wrong with it that could "possibly cause a leak" and "possibly cause a FIRE whether in use or not in use!" That is scary to think I've been driving my kids and myself around in my van for the past seven years and it could have caught on fire!
44. Christmas shopping with my husband
45. A new and improved blender so I can make healthy smoothies and soups for my family (early Christmas present)
46. Still choosing to be thankful for the work being sent to me, as I am really tired and don't feel like doing it, but I'm choosing to be grateful for God's provision.
47. My sweet kitty curled up under my desk near my feet
48. An art class that Ryan really enjoys
49. God's provision and bountiful blessings that my husband and I can go Christmas shopping and buy fun gifts for our children.50. Blessed at church worship today
51. Sitting in church with Ryan today
52. A good one-on-one talk with Ryan last night. He is growing up....
53. A comfy couch and warm blankets for Sarah to cozy up in while she's not feeling well today.
54. A friend on Nathan's basketball team
55. The classical music station on my TV
56. Ryan's percussion movement class that he loves
252. I went to the gym yesterday. That's huge, as I haven't exercised in many, many months. I hope to be able to be consistent in going.
253. Am I really on number 253? LOL
**** Starting again 02/28/2011 ****
413. Planes that fly high above miniature cities so I can visit loved ones at a moment's notice
414. Time with my dad
415. Empty bathroom so I can cry in private
416. Cleansing tears
417. Kids that miss me
418. Husband that misses me
419. Routine
420. Yellow-breasted birds
1. God's patience towards me, even when I am not patient with Him
2. God's faithfulness towards me, even when I am not faithful to Him
3. His Salvation based on Grace alone in Jesus Christ
4. God's gift to know Him here on earth and eternally
5. God's Word given to me through the Bible so I may know His truths
6. God's Love for me, even though I fall short
7. God's grace... His undeserved mercy
May this "task" of remembering and recording God's Gifts of Grace to me continually turn me towards Him, the Maker and Author of my Salvation, and no matter what is going on around me, I can rest in Him always.
8. My husband - loves me despite all my flaws
9. Ryan, my multi-talented amazing son who always leads me to think about things I've never thought of before - loves me despite all my flaws
10. Nathan, my multi-talented amazing son who makes me laugh everyday - loves me despite all my flaws
11. Sarah, my multi-talented beautiful daughter who loves life - loves me despite all my flaws
12. My mom, who has become my best friend in this world
13. My dad, who I miss greatly
14. My grandma, who I am blessed to still have in my life
15. Jim and his willingness to step in and be a part of my children's lives
16. My stepmom - her laugh is infectious
17. FREEDOM ~ I'm so grateful to live in the
18. The freedom to homeschool - God's grace
19. The flexibility available to me as we homeschool. Sarah had a soccer practice until 9 p.m. last night. By the time we got home and she showered and dried her hair and got in bed, it was almost 10 p.m! I was able to let her sleep in today before doing school.
20. Living in
21. Our house, our home - God's provision.
22. My true-blue, longest friend, Wendy. Through life's ups and downs, our friendship's remained. (And it was her idea to do this Gifts of Grace list).
23. One of my dearest and closest friends, Sandy. Even though she lives in another state than me, we are in constant contact through email. I love the honesty and transparency in our friendship.
24. Technology! #23 above reminded me of the gift of technology and how blessed I am to be able to keep in touch with friends and family from afar through email and Facebook, this blog, etc.
25. Joyce. A blessed friend in the Lord. I've known her since our children were all babies and toddlers and our friendship has just blossomed over the years. I'm grateful for my partner in prayer and homeschooling!
26. Judith. Always pointing me to Jesus. I love that about her.
27.
28. The other friends in my life, even those who may have come and gone, who have touched me in different ways and helped to shape me into who God wants me to be.*******
Today I have felt discouraged and distracted by the enemy who wants to rob me of the Joy I have in Christ. So my list today are things that are things that I must choose to be grateful for even though I may not always feel like it.
29. Work. With our economy what it is and so many people out of work, I choose to be grateful for the work sent to me even though I don't feel like working... there are other things I'd rather be doing right now.
30. The ability to work at home. It is a difficult thing to work from home. There are many distractions always pulling at you. But I choose to be grateful to work from home.
31. My van. It is in need of some work. It's breaking down and it has a manufacturer's recall on it. That means I have to find the time in my busy week to take my van in and drop it off for two hours so the dealership can fix whatever it is that's caused the recall. It also means money out of our pocket on the other problem (unrelated to the recall) that we need to get fixed.
32. My husband is willing to go to church with me.
33. I'm soooooooooooooooo behind in scrapbooking and do not see a time in my future where I will even be able to work on it. But that means I have lots of photographs of lots of memories. That's a gift.
34. Times of uncertainty and insecurity in my ability to continue homeschooling my children. Yes, that is a gift of grace. It teaches me to lean upon my God who has promised to guide and equip me as long as I follow Him.
35. Never-ending laundry. Sigh. I truly get so tired of what feels like always doing laundry. But really, this is a gift because it means I have a family to serve and take care of. That's a gift and a blessing.
********
36. Rain
37. Lying in my warm, cozy bed this morning watching the rain
38. Seeing God's work in my child's heart
39. Music
40. Especially worship music and how it can lift my soul
41. A garage to park my van in when it's raining
42. Healthy food to make homemade soup
43. God's protection ~ I've had my van for seven years. Last week, I get a letter in the mail from Ford saying there is a recall on it because there is something wrong with it that could "possibly cause a leak" and "possibly cause a FIRE whether in use or not in use!" That is scary to think I've been driving my kids and myself around in my van for the past seven years and it could have caught on fire!
44. Christmas shopping with my husband
45. A new and improved blender so I can make healthy smoothies and soups for my family (early Christmas present)
46. Still choosing to be thankful for the work being sent to me, as I am really tired and don't feel like doing it, but I'm choosing to be grateful for God's provision.
47. My sweet kitty curled up under my desk near my feet
48. An art class that Ryan really enjoys
49. God's provision and bountiful blessings that my husband and I can go Christmas shopping and buy fun gifts for our children.50. Blessed at church worship today
51. Sitting in church with Ryan today
52. A good one-on-one talk with Ryan last night. He is growing up....
53. A comfy couch and warm blankets for Sarah to cozy up in while she's not feeling well today.
54. A friend on Nathan's basketball team
55. The classical music station on my TV
56. Ryan's percussion movement class that he loves
57. Friends who are faithful to lift me up in prayer
58. Friends who ask hard questions instead of giving me "pat answers."
59. Friends who point me back to Jesus.
60. The peace that passes all understanding in Christ Jesus.... I had a very difficult morning and ended up going into my room to cry and basically cried out to Jesus telling Him that I could not do what He has asked me to do any longer.... the remainder of the day, though I do not have answers yet, I did have an unexplainable sense of peace within me.
61. Hugs.
62. Laughter.
63. Tears.
58. Friends who ask hard questions instead of giving me "pat answers."
59. Friends who point me back to Jesus.
60. The peace that passes all understanding in Christ Jesus.... I had a very difficult morning and ended up going into my room to cry and basically cried out to Jesus telling Him that I could not do what He has asked me to do any longer.... the remainder of the day, though I do not have answers yet, I did have an unexplainable sense of peace within me.
61. Hugs.
62. Laughter.
63. Tears.
Gifts of Grace #64-70
64. Writing prompts ~ I reintroduced these into our homeschool today and the kids loved them and I loved hearing what they wrote.
65. Encouragement where needed
66. A small break in my work. I actually was able to clean off my desk today.
67. Rest. I am battling some sort of head cold for the past two days.
68. Christmas lights ~ reminding me of The Light of the World
69. Eddie taking Sarah to soccer practice for me tonight
70. Starbucks coffee ~ this is on my "no-no diet" list, but it feels good on my sore throat.
65. Encouragement where needed
66. A small break in my work. I actually was able to clean off my desk today.
67. Rest. I am battling some sort of head cold for the past two days.
68. Christmas lights ~ reminding me of The Light of the World
69. Eddie taking Sarah to soccer practice for me tonight
70. Starbucks coffee ~ this is on my "no-no diet" list, but it feels good on my sore throat.
Gifts of Grace #71-72
71. Finding the perfect fit frame for Ryan's picture today
72. Videos to preserve memories and share with family
72. Videos to preserve memories and share with family
Gifts of Grace #73-82
73. Sunshine and warmth
74. Prayers of a faithful friend
75. Time with my husband
76. My husband's upcoming two-week vacation
77. A husband who wants to help me clean out the office
78. A break from school
79. Looking forward to church
80. Seeing my son cheer on my daughter at her soccer game.
81. A patient husband
82. My van's heater fixed and a really great deal on it
74. Prayers of a faithful friend
75. Time with my husband
76. My husband's upcoming two-week vacation
77. A husband who wants to help me clean out the office
78. A break from school
79. Looking forward to church
80. Seeing my son cheer on my daughter at her soccer game.
81. A patient husband
82. My van's heater fixed and a really great deal on it
Gifts of Grace #83-87
83. Watching my daughter's team win the championship today! Yay! That was fun.
84. The opportunity for life lessons after the championship game was over. I was so saddened to see how the coach and the parents on the other team behaved. That was our entire discussion on the way home, and God used the ugliness of sin to teach us all something about how He truly desires us to conduct ourselves in sports (and life) situations.
85. Walking the
Starlight Circlewith my family tonight looking at Christmas lights.
86. Getting to cuddle up with my kids and watch one of our favorite Christmas movies tonight.
87. Looking forward to church tomorrow with great expectation.
84. The opportunity for life lessons after the championship game was over. I was so saddened to see how the coach and the parents on the other team behaved. That was our entire discussion on the way home, and God used the ugliness of sin to teach us all something about how He truly desires us to conduct ourselves in sports (and life) situations.
85. Walking the
Starlight Circlewith my family tonight looking at Christmas lights.
86. Getting to cuddle up with my kids and watch one of our favorite Christmas movies tonight.
87. Looking forward to church tomorrow with great expectation.
Gifts of Grace #88-90
88. Worship at church today
89. Sarah helping me go through our board games as we start our decluttering project.
90. REST
89. Sarah helping me go through our board games as we start our decluttering project.
90. REST
Monday, December 21, 2009
Gifts of Grace #90-94
90. The beautiful PINK sunset that God painted in the sky for me to see tonight.
91. God helping me to be comfortable at Sarah's pizza party tonight (when I am usually feeling very out of my comfort zone)
92. Allergies.... I was miserable tonight due to my allergies, but God helped me to suffer through them and allowed me to enjoy the company of others in spite of them. Realizing that while, to me, my allergies are pretty miserable, others have to deal with much more difficult ailments. I can be thankful that my "misery" is temporary.
93. My marriage. I found out today that someone we know has gotten divorced this past year. Makes me so sad when I hear that. I'm grateful for my marriage.
94. Sleeping in today undisturbed while Eddie made the kids a big, fun breakfast.
91. God helping me to be comfortable at Sarah's pizza party tonight (when I am usually feeling very out of my comfort zone)
92. Allergies.... I was miserable tonight due to my allergies, but God helped me to suffer through them and allowed me to enjoy the company of others in spite of them. Realizing that while, to me, my allergies are pretty miserable, others have to deal with much more difficult ailments. I can be thankful that my "misery" is temporary.
93. My marriage. I found out today that someone we know has gotten divorced this past year. Makes me so sad when I hear that. I'm grateful for my marriage.
94. Sleeping in today undisturbed while Eddie made the kids a big, fun breakfast.
Gifts of Grace #95-105
95. Not one, but two surprise packages on my doorstep today!
96. My Knowing God Devotional Journal from Wendy
97. A gift fromSandy
98. Time with Sarah as we went shopping for Christmas dinner
99. A husband who helps me clean and organize things
100. A husband who willingly cleaned out our files without any help from me
101. A husband who thanks me for the little things I do... like when I got home from the grocery store, he thanked me for going.
102. A fridge overflowing with food for our Christmas dinner
103. Time with Ryan wrapping presents together
104. To see Ryan choose to give something special to his Uncle Lance for Christmas
105. Nathan's many hugs today
96. My Knowing God Devotional Journal from Wendy
97. A gift from
98. Time with Sarah as we went shopping for Christmas dinner
99. A husband who helps me clean and organize things
100. A husband who willingly cleaned out our files without any help from me
101. A husband who thanks me for the little things I do... like when I got home from the grocery store, he thanked me for going.
102. A fridge overflowing with food for our Christmas dinner
103. Time with Ryan wrapping presents together
104. To see Ryan choose to give something special to his Uncle Lance for Christmas
105. Nathan's many hugs today
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Gifts of Grace #106-112
106. My husband's spontaneity tonight
107. Pie at Cocos with my family tonight
108. Seeing The Christmas Carol movie with my family tonight
109. My husband putting the kids to bed for me (since that's something I usually have to do every night when he's working)
110. The internet and the ability to find out how to cook a turkey on my own through it
111. My mom and her friendship and how we are in touch every day, even if only through email.
112. Time with my husband wrapping the kids' Christmas presents
107. Pie at Cocos with my family tonight
108. Seeing The Christmas Carol movie with my family tonight
109. My husband putting the kids to bed for me (since that's something I usually have to do every night when he's working)
110. The internet and the ability to find out how to cook a turkey on my own through it
111. My mom and her friendship and how we are in touch every day, even if only through email.
112. Time with my husband wrapping the kids' Christmas presents
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Gifts of Grace #113-117
113. Making Rice Krispy treats with Sarah
114. Christmas music
115. Chores on Christmas Eve... choosing to be grateful for toilets to clean, bathrooms to clean, laundry to get done, floors to be swept... for that means I have a home to welcome others into on Christmas Day.
116. Traditions... baking goodies on Christmas Eve... opening pajama gifts on Christmas Eve... making cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning...
117. Looking forward to Christmas Eve service
114. Christmas music
115. Chores on Christmas Eve... choosing to be grateful for toilets to clean, bathrooms to clean, laundry to get done, floors to be swept... for that means I have a home to welcome others into on Christmas Day.
116. Traditions... baking goodies on Christmas Eve... opening pajama gifts on Christmas Eve... making cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning...
117. Looking forward to Christmas Eve service
118. Christmas with my family and extended family
119. My brother and his family
120. The look on my brother's face when he opened the handmade gift to him from Ryan. Precious.
121. Food and leftovers
122. A husband who is willing to do the gross job of pulling the turkey guts out before cooking (I hate doing that)
123. A husband who willingly and cheerfully helps me clean up the kitchen
124. Grateful children... the boys did not get the one "big" thing they had been asking for, but I did not hear one comment about it. Instead, I heard many "thank-you's" for what they did receive
125. God's protection of those on the airline flight today... I am hearing that it was a possible terrorist attack gone awry
126. Christ's birth... His birth bringing Salvation to all who believe...
119. My brother and his family
120. The look on my brother's face when he opened the handmade gift to him from Ryan. Precious.
121. Food and leftovers
122. A husband who is willing to do the gross job of pulling the turkey guts out before cooking (I hate doing that)
123. A husband who willingly and cheerfully helps me clean up the kitchen
124. Grateful children... the boys did not get the one "big" thing they had been asking for, but I did not hear one comment about it. Instead, I heard many "thank-you's" for what they did receive
125. God's protection of those on the airline flight today... I am hearing that it was a possible terrorist attack gone awry
126. Christ's birth... His birth bringing Salvation to all who believe...
127. Two days away at my mom's with Sarah... time to relax and scrapbook
128. Playing Mario Bros. with Sarah on the Wii. She's so fun.
129. Sarah's cuddles in the morning
128. Playing Mario Bros. with Sarah on the Wii. She's so fun.
129. Sarah's cuddles in the morning
130. Seeing the movie, "The Blind Side" with my husband today. Great movie of an amazing story.
131. Being pushed out of my comfort zone... makes me lean on God more
132. Dinner with good friends that we had not seen in a long time. Wonderful time of fellowship.
133. God's timing of the dinner with friends with regards to my prayers about schooling next year.
134. My mom willing to watch my kids so my husband and I can go to the movies and have a "date"
135. God's protection over my children's physical well-being over the years
131. Being pushed out of my comfort zone... makes me lean on God more
132. Dinner with good friends that we had not seen in a long time. Wonderful time of fellowship.
133. God's timing of the dinner with friends with regards to my prayers about schooling next year.
134. My mom willing to watch my kids so my husband and I can go to the movies and have a "date"
135. God's protection over my children's physical well-being over the years
136. Seeing my cat chase a fly. That was quite funny to watch.
137. Laughter
138. That my mom is my friend
139. My husband brought me home coffee just because he thought I'd want some.
140. God's peace, even when I do not see the answers yet that I seek.
141. Friends that pray for me
142. A New Year... a fresh start... God's mercies are new everyday. ~ December 31, 2009
137. Laughter
138. That my mom is my friend
139. My husband brought me home coffee just because he thought I'd want some.
140. God's peace, even when I do not see the answers yet that I seek.
141. Friends that pray for me
142. A New Year... a fresh start... God's mercies are new everyday. ~ December 31, 2009
************
143. Nathan's team doing well in this weekend's tournament - it's been fun.
144. Eddie's two weeks off from work - it's been fun
145. Sarah's sensitive heart when it comes to sin - pray that it remains that way
146. Ryan's apology today - repentance is a beautiful thing
147. Nathan's unprompted appreciation - saying thank you to Eddie and me for taking him to his soccer games and to get ice cream after his win today
148. My kids' laughter - such a wonderful sound
149. My New Year's Eve surprise of Wendy showing up at my door.
150. Safe travels tonight on dark, windy, one-lane roads
144. Eddie's two weeks off from work - it's been fun
145. Sarah's sensitive heart when it comes to sin - pray that it remains that way
146. Ryan's apology today - repentance is a beautiful thing
147. Nathan's unprompted appreciation - saying thank you to Eddie and me for taking him to his soccer games and to get ice cream after his win today
148. My kids' laughter - such a wonderful sound
149. My New Year's Eve surprise of Wendy showing up at my door.
150. Safe travels tonight on dark, windy, one-lane roads
151. Playing Scrabble with Sarah tonight
152. My husband's thoughtfulness when he cleaned out the garage - he put up an extra shelf and a rail thing for me in the laundry area, things I never even asked for but I could use.
153. A break from work - I think I had three full days with no work; that was nice.
154. Finding tap shoes at a reasonable price for Sarah and Ryan today for their class that starts tomorrow
155. Seeing the beautiful sky this morning as the sun rose ~ I am hardly ever up that early and it was just gorgeous!
156. A piano teacher who is willing to give extra time to help Sarah with her upcoming CYT audition
157. A thought-provoking discussion with friends on Facebook
158. My kids' best effort and attitudes today as we started back to our homeschool schedule.
159. A quiet bedtime.... now I can work and (hopefully) get to bed early.
152. My husband's thoughtfulness when he cleaned out the garage - he put up an extra shelf and a rail thing for me in the laundry area, things I never even asked for but I could use.
153. A break from work - I think I had three full days with no work; that was nice.
154. Finding tap shoes at a reasonable price for Sarah and Ryan today for their class that starts tomorrow
155. Seeing the beautiful sky this morning as the sun rose ~ I am hardly ever up that early and it was just gorgeous!
156. A piano teacher who is willing to give extra time to help Sarah with her upcoming CYT audition
157. A thought-provoking discussion with friends on Facebook
158. My kids' best effort and attitudes today as we started back to our homeschool schedule.
159. A quiet bedtime.... now I can work and (hopefully) get to bed early.
160. New beginnings ~ The Lord's mercies are new every morning. Lamentations 3:23
161. Disappointment ~ so hard to be thankful for disappointments in life, but they are lessons to be learned and character being developed... things like perseverance, patience, trust in God for His timing.
162. Homeschooling ~ I do not know how much longer I will be homeschooling; however, now that the topic doing something different is being discussed, I am really seeing the little blessings throughout the day.... like hugs and cuddles while reading... like one-on-one time learning together....
163. Friendly people ~ At Sarah's CYT auditions last night, I do not know many people. However, a few people made the effort to introduce themselves and chat with me.
164. CYT and the opportunities it gives Sarah and Ryan to grow and learn
165. Being able to sleep in today with no alarm.
166. Beautiful blue sky
167. A friend to talk to and be real with (at Thursday's class day)
168. Hope
162. Homeschooling ~ I do not know how much longer I will be homeschooling; however, now that the topic doing something different is being discussed, I am really seeing the little blessings throughout the day.... like hugs and cuddles while reading... like one-on-one time learning together....
163. Friendly people ~ At Sarah's CYT auditions last night, I do not know many people. However, a few people made the effort to introduce themselves and chat with me.
164. CYT and the opportunities it gives Sarah and Ryan to grow and learn
165. Being able to sleep in today with no alarm.
166. Beautiful blue sky
167. A friend to talk to and be real with (at Thursday's class day)
168. Hope
169. Seeing my daughter handle a big disappointment in her young life so well
170. Seeing my boys' kindness toward their sister
171. Eddie taking the kids out of the house for an hour so I can have some quiet time
172. Church today
173. Knowing that God has "other plans" for Sarah.... wanting to be able to recognize it as it comes...
174. Birds... I love watching them on my backyard birdfeeders
170. Seeing my boys' kindness toward their sister
171. Eddie taking the kids out of the house for an hour so I can have some quiet time
172. Church today
173. Knowing that God has "other plans" for Sarah.... wanting to be able to recognize it as it comes...
174. Birds... I love watching them on my backyard birdfeeders
175. Nathan's witty humor. He makes me laugh daily. "Hey, Mom... today's date is a palindrome 01-11-10."
176. Gymnastics class at a good price for Sarah
177. Playing Scrabble with my kids
178. My Gifts of Grace group to hold me accountable so I won't stay stuck in my own personal pity party
176. Gymnastics class at a good price for Sarah
177. Playing Scrabble with my kids
178. My Gifts of Grace group to hold me accountable so I won't stay stuck in my own personal pity party
179. My kids' laughter
180. Walking/hiking through Mission Trails today. I really love walking outdoors and need to do it more often.
181. Photography ~ being able to capture God's beauty in pictures
182. Fellowship... on my walk today with friends I hadn't seen in many, many months; seeing my kids easily "pick up where we left off" with their friends; at the coffee shop with Joyce today... time at my mom's today...
183. Prayers answered for a baby's healing and homecoming ~ the blessing and privilege to pray for them, even though I do not know them
184. A husband who showers me with compliments...
185. A husband who works hard to provide for our family
186. A husband who plays with our kids
180. Walking/hiking through Mission Trails today. I really love walking outdoors and need to do it more often.
181. Photography ~ being able to capture God's beauty in pictures
182. Fellowship... on my walk today with friends I hadn't seen in many, many months; seeing my kids easily "pick up where we left off" with their friends; at the coffee shop with Joyce today... time at my mom's today...
183. Prayers answered for a baby's healing and homecoming ~ the blessing and privilege to pray for them, even though I do not know them
184. A husband who showers me with compliments...
185. A husband who works hard to provide for our family
186. A husband who plays with our kids
187. God revealing my sin to me... showing me the areas where I've failed, what I need to work on...
188. Difficult, but needed, honest conversation with my teenager tonight
189. Prayer
188. Difficult, but needed, honest conversation with my teenager tonight
189. Prayer
190. God was faithful to immediately show me my sin today.... I've been praying about the sin of impatience and irritability in my heart and how it manifests itself in dealing with my kids.... I am grateful for His faithfulness to convict me, so that I was able to immediately repent and respond in a way pleasing to Him.
191. Nathan's baseball games today.... It is just so much fun as a parent to watch your child do something that they love to do, and do it well.
191. Nathan's baseball games today.... It is just so much fun as a parent to watch your child do something that they love to do, and do it well.
192. Rain
193. Hugs freely given... Nathan just came up to me because he wanted a hug... he gives the best hugs... "I love you, Mommy." He is so sweet.
194. Many opportunities today to seek the Lord in dealing with my impatient and irritable heart.
195. Creativity... seeing what my kids come up with to do when it's raining outside and I don't let them entertain themselves on the Wii or computer
196. Reminders that acknowledgement from man is not what I should be seeking, but rather God's approval... hard lesson right now, as I've struggled with certain people taking credit for the things I have done or ideas I've come up with.
197. The Wii... I have no excuse not to exercise... it's here in my home... I need to take advantage of that.
193. Hugs freely given... Nathan just came up to me because he wanted a hug... he gives the best hugs... "I love you, Mommy." He is so sweet.
194. Many opportunities today to seek the Lord in dealing with my impatient and irritable heart.
195. Creativity... seeing what my kids come up with to do when it's raining outside and I don't let them entertain themselves on the Wii or computer
196. Reminders that acknowledgement from man is not what I should be seeking, but rather God's approval... hard lesson right now, as I've struggled with certain people taking credit for the things I have done or ideas I've come up with.
197. The Wii... I have no excuse not to exercise... it's here in my home... I need to take advantage of that.
198. Warm house
199. Sturdy roof over my head
200. Warm socks on my feet
201. Class Day being canceled... I really hate driving in the rain and just felt that it was not worth it... I am really looking forward to staying home tomorrow.
202. Answered prayer. I have told my children that I pray for them alot.... and that one of my prayers is that they would get caught in their sin. I've told them that if they sin and get away with it then they might think that they can keep getting away with it. Today, one of my children was caught in their sin. While it was not pleasant for me to deal with, I am grateful to the Lord for answering my prayer.
203. Grateful for the mom who reached out to me regarding my child... when many might have just turned a blind eye to the situation.
204. God's grace........ His reminder to me that my child's sin does not make me less of a parent... it's so difficult for me to not take that upon myself... but we have ALL fallen short of the glory of God and sinned... including my children.
205. Repentance & Conviction... God's goodness leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4). My child was convicted of their sin without much prompting from me. When confronted with their sin, they were sorry and knew what they did was wrong and willingly accepted the discipline and consequences of their actions.
206. Forgiveness of sins... 1 John 1:9 tells us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
199. Sturdy roof over my head
200. Warm socks on my feet
201. Class Day being canceled... I really hate driving in the rain and just felt that it was not worth it... I am really looking forward to staying home tomorrow.
202. Answered prayer. I have told my children that I pray for them alot.... and that one of my prayers is that they would get caught in their sin. I've told them that if they sin and get away with it then they might think that they can keep getting away with it. Today, one of my children was caught in their sin. While it was not pleasant for me to deal with, I am grateful to the Lord for answering my prayer.
203. Grateful for the mom who reached out to me regarding my child... when many might have just turned a blind eye to the situation.
204. God's grace........ His reminder to me that my child's sin does not make me less of a parent... it's so difficult for me to not take that upon myself... but we have ALL fallen short of the glory of God and sinned... including my children.
205. Repentance & Conviction... God's goodness leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4). My child was convicted of their sin without much prompting from me. When confronted with their sin, they were sorry and knew what they did was wrong and willingly accepted the discipline and consequences of their actions.
206. Forgiveness of sins... 1 John 1:9 tells us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
207. Physical shelter from the physical storm around me
208. Electricity... I know with the thunderstorm warnings, the winds and the rains, the possibility of our electricity going out is very real... I'm so thankful for electricity.
209. Homemade cookies
210. Homemade soup
208. Electricity... I know with the thunderstorm warnings, the winds and the rains, the possibility of our electricity going out is very real... I'm so thankful for electricity.
209. Homemade cookies
210. Homemade soup
211. Blue skies
212. Lazy days
212. Lazy days
213. God's beauty in Creation...
214. The beautiful color blue of today's sky
215. This beautiful white-bark tree
216. The warmth of the sun
217. The green grass
218. My son, Nathan. Truly a gift of God for the past eleven years.
219. Last night as I was driving Sarah to her gymnastics class, she thanked me.
220. Today, I took Ryan to Barnes & Nobles for a book he wanted to get and then to Target to get him some new sunglasses. As we were leaving for Target, he said to me, "I like having time alone with you."
221. God's power to break through my hard heart
222. God's Agape Love working in and through me
223. Making the decision to drop one of our class days for the remainder of the school year. I cannot believe the feeling of relief I felt today knowing that we did not have to go anymore. I should have done that months ago.
224. A renewed energy and inspiration in homeschooling
225. The library... being able to find needed books for a unit study at no cost to me (as long as I return them on time. ha ha)
226. A husband who still loves me despite my many flaws and imperfections.
227. God's word speaking to my heart today through the Psalms
228. Worship music.... so healing to my soul.
220. Today, I took Ryan to Barnes & Nobles for a book he wanted to get and then to Target to get him some new sunglasses. As we were leaving for Target, he said to me, "I like having time alone with you."
221. God's power to break through my hard heart
222. God's Agape Love working in and through me
223. Making the decision to drop one of our class days for the remainder of the school year. I cannot believe the feeling of relief I felt today knowing that we did not have to go anymore. I should have done that months ago.
224. A renewed energy and inspiration in homeschooling
225. The library... being able to find needed books for a unit study at no cost to me (as long as I return them on time. ha ha)
226. A husband who still loves me despite my many flaws and imperfections.
227. God's word speaking to my heart today through the Psalms
228. Worship music.... so healing to my soul.
229. Nathan's All Star team today winning the Area Playoffs and advancing to Sectionals. It's been an incredible experience to be a part of!
230. The parents on Nathan's All Star team. They are all so fun and positive!
231. Hearing Sarah cheer on her brother's team today.
232. The smile on Ryan's face after his Percussion Movement class yesterday.
233. That Eddie was off today and got to see Nathan's games.
234. I'm so tired... have work to do and school that needs to be planned... but I know that God will sustain me and help me get done what NEEDS to be done.
235. Peace within the inner storm...
236. Prayers of a faithful friend
237. God's work in me... softening my heart and helping me to choose to love
238. Fresh starts... really wanting to try and focus more on eating healthy and finding time to exercise
239. God's Word...
230. The parents on Nathan's All Star team. They are all so fun and positive!
231. Hearing Sarah cheer on her brother's team today.
232. The smile on Ryan's face after his Percussion Movement class yesterday.
233. That Eddie was off today and got to see Nathan's games.
234. I'm so tired... have work to do and school that needs to be planned... but I know that God will sustain me and help me get done what NEEDS to be done.
235. Peace within the inner storm...
236. Prayers of a faithful friend
237. God's work in me... softening my heart and helping me to choose to love
238. Fresh starts... really wanting to try and focus more on eating healthy and finding time to exercise
239. God's Word...
240. God's faithfulness to me... to not let me go when I want to give up... to sustain me when I am flailing... for showing me hope when I feel hopeless...
241. The sound of my cat purring
242. So many wonderful hugs from Nathan today... just because he wants a hug.
243. A really good school day... even though I had a really awful headache all day long.
244. Time in the Word this morning before the kids got up.
242. So many wonderful hugs from Nathan today... just because he wants a hug.
243. A really good school day... even though I had a really awful headache all day long.
244. Time in the Word this morning before the kids got up.
245. Receiving a new devotional book from Wendy in the mail yesterday. Totally God's timing.
246. Time last night to read
247. My husband wanting to attend a meeting at a possible school for our kids with me today.
246. Time last night to read
247. My husband wanting to attend a meeting at a possible school for our kids with me today.
248. Time today to talk with my husband over school issues.... starting to get to the heart of the issues.
249. Both Sarah and Nathan having soccer practice at the same time on the same nights... makes it so much easier for me!
250. Having a sense of peace within uncertainty... so thankful to God for His comfort tonight.
249. Both Sarah and Nathan having soccer practice at the same time on the same nights... makes it so much easier for me!
250. Having a sense of peace within uncertainty... so thankful to God for His comfort tonight.
251. Movie night with my family tonight... lots of laughter
252. I went to the gym yesterday. That's huge, as I haven't exercised in many, many months. I hope to be able to be consistent in going.
253. Am I really on number 253? LOL
254. Fun time hanging out with my family, mom and Jim today
255. Streams in the Desert... this book is just.... beautiful.... I'm touched to my core everytime I read each day's devotion...
256. Hope. "There is never a time when we cannot hope in God." Thank You, Lord.
255. Streams in the Desert... this book is just.... beautiful.... I'm touched to my core everytime I read each day's devotion...
256. Hope. "There is never a time when we cannot hope in God." Thank You, Lord.
257. Lately when I tell Nathan that I love him, his response to me is, "I know you do" in this sweet way. I just love it.
258. The boys had an assessment at a nearby tutoring place today and I was very pleased with their initial results and with the ideas that the tutor came up with for working on their individual areas of weakness. What a blessing.
259. Husband and I are still communicating when possible about school choices next year... no answers yet, but there is peace in the waiting... praying for an answer soon.
258. The boys had an assessment at a nearby tutoring place today and I was very pleased with their initial results and with the ideas that the tutor came up with for working on their individual areas of weakness. What a blessing.
259. Husband and I are still communicating when possible about school choices next year... no answers yet, but there is peace in the waiting... praying for an answer soon.
260. A vehicle to drive
261. Safely arriving at Sarah's tournament this past weekend
262. Safely returning home
263. My mom's company this past weekend
264. Sarah's sweet spirit and enjoyment of life
265. My friend, Joyce's, thoughtfulness in getting me a book from the Mom's conference I so badly wanted to attend but couldn't. Praying for time to read it.
266. Time alone today to go tennis shoe and jeans shopping
267. I am so unhappy with my body right now and how I look, but I am choosing to be grateful for my health and for the incredible, amazing gift I have that God has given me... my body was masterfully made by my Creator and enables me to do all that I do.
268. So glad that my head cold was gone over the weekend away... praying that this nagging cough I still have will leave me soon.
269. Grateful for Jim who’s so willing to help out with taking my boys places when I am unable.
261. Safely arriving at Sarah's tournament this past weekend
262. Safely returning home
263. My mom's company this past weekend
264. Sarah's sweet spirit and enjoyment of life
265. My friend, Joyce's, thoughtfulness in getting me a book from the Mom's conference I so badly wanted to attend but couldn't. Praying for time to read it.
266. Time alone today to go tennis shoe and jeans shopping
267. I am so unhappy with my body right now and how I look, but I am choosing to be grateful for my health and for the incredible, amazing gift I have that God has given me... my body was masterfully made by my Creator and enables me to do all that I do.
268. So glad that my head cold was gone over the weekend away... praying that this nagging cough I still have will leave me soon.
269. Grateful for Jim who’s so willing to help out with taking my boys places when I am unable.
270. Sarah's soccer team placing fourth out of over 700 teams in all of Southern California ! That is quite an accomplishment! A special thing that she may never experience again.
271. Watching the Olympics with my kids tonight... love cuddling on the couch with them while we talk about things going on.
272. Sarah is SO excited about our old neighbors coming to visit tomorrow... they moved to Boston a year and a half ago and she's only spoken to her friend by phone or by letter ever since.
273. My husband taking Sarah out on a "Daddy-Daughter Date" yesterday.
274. A new consideration for school next year... something I had not thought about until today... praying about the possibility and feeling a great sense of peace
275. Ryan's excitement over something he learned in science (during his own reading) about Creation with regards to fossilization... so awesome to see him enjoy learning and want to share it with others.
272. Sarah is SO excited about our old neighbors coming to visit tomorrow... they moved to Boston a year and a half ago and she's only spoken to her friend by phone or by letter ever since.
273. My husband taking Sarah out on a "Daddy-Daughter Date" yesterday.
274. A new consideration for school next year... something I had not thought about until today... praying about the possibility and feeling a great sense of peace
275. Ryan's excitement over something he learned in science (during his own reading) about Creation with regards to fossilization... so awesome to see him enjoy learning and want to share it with others.
276. God's Peace
277. Phone conversation with my dearest friend, Wendy, yesterday!
278. Comfort in laying school decisions in God's hands
277. Phone conversation with my dearest friend, Wendy, yesterday!
278. Comfort in laying school decisions in God's hands
279. Safely traveling to and from Garden Grove
280. One-on-one time with Nathan this weekend. He is such a fun person.
281. Nathan's gratitude and appreciation for things in his life. He said "thank you" to me so many times this weekend... thanked me for driving him up there, thanked me for letting him play soccer, thanked me for taking him out to eat at his favorite place, thanked me for an ice cream treat....
282. Eddie having some one-on-one time with Ryan this weekend.
283. My mom having some one-on-one time with Sarah this weekend.
284. HUGS.... so many hugs this weekend from Nathan; hugs from Sarah, Ryan and Eddie when I got home.
285. The Winter Olympics... sounds strange maybe, but I am just amazed at how God created our bodies and the athleticism of the men and women competing in the Olympics... very inspiring stories of working hard towards a goal.
286. Soooooooooo grateful that it did not rain this weekend. God was so kind to us to keep the rain away. The forecast on Friday before I left said it was to rain up there all weekend long. It did not rain at all. It was cold, but beautiful!
280. One-on-one time with Nathan this weekend. He is such a fun person.
281. Nathan's gratitude and appreciation for things in his life. He said "thank you" to me so many times this weekend... thanked me for driving him up there, thanked me for letting him play soccer, thanked me for taking him out to eat at his favorite place, thanked me for an ice cream treat....
282. Eddie having some one-on-one time with Ryan this weekend.
283. My mom having some one-on-one time with Sarah this weekend.
284. HUGS.... so many hugs this weekend from Nathan; hugs from Sarah, Ryan and Eddie when I got home.
285. The Winter Olympics... sounds strange maybe, but I am just amazed at how God created our bodies and the athleticism of the men and women competing in the Olympics... very inspiring stories of working hard towards a goal.
286. Soooooooooo grateful that it did not rain this weekend. God was so kind to us to keep the rain away. The forecast on Friday before I left said it was to rain up there all weekend long. It did not rain at all. It was cold, but beautiful!
287. Losing. It is hard to be grateful for the not-so-fun part of sports. Nathan's team was really outmatched this weekend and it was HARD to watch. It was HARD on Nathan... tears after every game... but it gave me opportunity to love on my son and also gave me the opportunity to remind him that there is more to life than winning and losing a game. Even after the losses, it was something great to get as far as we did and I'm thankful for that.
288. Eddie wants to get an exercise bike. I am so excited. I have wanted a treadmill for a really long time but I never brought it up because I didn't think Eddie would go for that. He brought it up yesterday and I couldn't believe it. He doesn't want to get a treadmill because of his knees. So we will be looking for an exercise bike soon. Praying we are wise with our finances and get only what we need.
289. Watching Sarah and Nathan play so well together today out on the basketball court.
290. Free oranges from our neighbor
291. A washer and dryer in my garage for all of my laundry
292. A radio to listen to in my room while I fold my laundry
293. CYT Crew opportunity for Ryan.. tech week starts tonight
294. Ryan offering to help Sarah with her roller skates.
295. Eddie's job (God's provision)
289. Watching Sarah and Nathan play so well together today out on the basketball court.
290. Free oranges from our neighbor
291. A washer and dryer in my garage for all of my laundry
292. A radio to listen to in my room while I fold my laundry
293. CYT Crew opportunity for Ryan.. tech week starts tonight
294. Ryan offering to help Sarah with her roller skates.
295. Eddie's job (God's provision)
296. Eddie was able to fix the crack in our shower floor on his own, saving us money.
297. Backyard birds... I love watching them eat from the feeders I put out there. I think they are amazing creatures that God has made.
298. Having a backyard.. I have been going out in the mornings to sit in the sun and quiet my soul, if only for ten minutes.... it is so refreshing and calming.
299. Flexibility in homeschooling... orthodontist appointments today, so we had a modified schedule. Ryan has CYT school performances tomorrow, so we are taking the day off.
300. Ryan thought of Sarah's feelings today when making a decision... love seeing that.
297. Backyard birds... I love watching them eat from the feeders I put out there. I think they are amazing creatures that God has made.
298. Having a backyard.. I have been going out in the mornings to sit in the sun and quiet my soul, if only for ten minutes.... it is so refreshing and calming.
299. Flexibility in homeschooling... orthodontist appointments today, so we had a modified schedule. Ryan has CYT school performances tomorrow, so we are taking the day off.
300. Ryan thought of Sarah's feelings today when making a decision... love seeing that.
301. So grateful to talk to my friend Sandy in Texas
302. Picking up Ryan from CYT Crew and having him get in the van with a smile and saying to me, "That was fun." I love that he's learning to work and serve and enjoying it too!
303. Grateful for two showers in our home since one is out of order right now.
304. A lazy day... few and far between
302. Picking up Ryan from CYT Crew and having him get in the van with a smile and saying to me, "That was fun." I love that he's learning to work and serve and enjoying it too!
303. Grateful for two showers in our home since one is out of order right now.
304. A lazy day... few and far between
305. Seeing glimpses of Ryan maturing. He really wanted to do something tonight with the rest of the CYT Cast & Crew and I wasn't able to take him due to my workload. Although, he was really disappointed, he handled it very well. I felt so bad, but what a blessing to be able to thank him for being understanding
306. Saw a rainbow today. I loved how Sarah gasped when she saw it.
307. Ryan telling me today how happy he is taking drum lessons.
308. The opportunity today at Nathan's All Star soccer party to talk to a specific mom about her experience at a school Eddie and I had visited a few weeks ago and were considering for our kids next year. So very grateful for the confirmation that that school is not the right place.
309. Eddie made dinner tonight and cleaned up the kitchen so I can work.
307. Ryan telling me today how happy he is taking drum lessons.
308. The opportunity today at Nathan's All Star soccer party to talk to a specific mom about her experience at a school Eddie and I had visited a few weeks ago and were considering for our kids next year. So very grateful for the confirmation that that school is not the right place.
309. Eddie made dinner tonight and cleaned up the kitchen so I can work.
310. We bought an elliptical machine today!!! I am so grateful for this! I know it is a material purchase, but it is also about my health... and....
311. It was Eddie's own idea to purchase the elliptical. I have been wanting to get a treadmill or elliptical machine for our home for a very, very long time, but I have never said anything to Eddie about it because I just didn't think we could afford it. I guess I didn't feel worthy to spend that much money on something like that. But with me homeschooling and Eddie's work schedule, it really is near impossible for me to get to the gym on a regular basis. Anyway, I just kept praying about it without ever saying anything to Eddie and last week, Eddie brought it up and told me that he thought we should get something that we can both use and help keep one another accountable in using. I am so grateful!
312. Dinner with my family tonight... lots of laughter... I love laughing together
313. Earbuds so I can listen to classical music while I work, blocking out the movie they are all watching in the front room. (Sometimes it's hard working from home)
314. Eddie's patience towards me when I am grumpy (yesterday).
315. Being able to tour another school campus today with Eddie.
316. Lunch date with Eddie today.
317. So very grateful that Eddie and I are on the same page with regards to our kids' schooling right now.
318. So very grateful for the PEACE I have about our school decision.... trusting God completely for the outcome.
319. A heating pad for my aching back.
320. Holding hands
311. It was Eddie's own idea to purchase the elliptical. I have been wanting to get a treadmill or elliptical machine for our home for a very, very long time, but I have never said anything to Eddie about it because I just didn't think we could afford it. I guess I didn't feel worthy to spend that much money on something like that. But with me homeschooling and Eddie's work schedule, it really is near impossible for me to get to the gym on a regular basis. Anyway, I just kept praying about it without ever saying anything to Eddie and last week, Eddie brought it up and told me that he thought we should get something that we can both use and help keep one another accountable in using. I am so grateful!
312. Dinner with my family tonight... lots of laughter... I love laughing together
313. Earbuds so I can listen to classical music while I work, blocking out the movie they are all watching in the front room. (Sometimes it's hard working from home)
314. Eddie's patience towards me when I am grumpy (yesterday).
315. Being able to tour another school campus today with Eddie.
316. Lunch date with Eddie today.
317. So very grateful that Eddie and I are on the same page with regards to our kids' schooling right now.
318. So very grateful for the PEACE I have about our school decision.... trusting God completely for the outcome.
319. A heating pad for my aching back.
320. Holding hands
321. Rain
322. Rainbows
323. Church this morning
324. Getting to see Kyle's first baseball game yesterday
325. So grateful that Nathan's knee is okay after his first game yesterday.
326. Coffee with Judith this past week
327. Dinner withShannon tonight
328. Hearing Sarah and her friend giggle last night
329. Taking a nap today
330. Eddie's vacation
322. Rainbows
323. Church this morning
324. Getting to see Kyle's first baseball game yesterday
325. So grateful that Nathan's knee is okay after his first game yesterday.
326. Coffee with Judith this past week
327. Dinner with
328. Hearing Sarah and her friend giggle last night
329. Taking a nap today
330. Eddie's vacation
331. Our day at Legoland yesterday... I was a little melancholy during a lot of our day because my kids are getting so big and I realized it was probably the last time we will go there, as the boys have just about outgrown it. Lots of fun memories over the last eight years of us going there.
332. Grateful for the big discount we got on Legoland admission through their homeschool days program; otherwise, we would not have been able to go.
333. CYT Showcase tonight... so fun watching Sarah do what she loves. She had the biggest smile on her face while she was dancing
334. Eddie putting up with my grumpies today.... I'm a bit overloaded with work and with him on vacation, it's been even harder to get it done; Eddie chose to overlook my irritability today
335. Really grateful and amazed that Nathan's knee seems to be okay.
332. Grateful for the big discount we got on Legoland admission through their homeschool days program; otherwise, we would not have been able to go.
333. CYT Showcase tonight... so fun watching Sarah do what she loves. She had the biggest smile on her face while she was dancing
334. Eddie putting up with my grumpies today.... I'm a bit overloaded with work and with him on vacation, it's been even harder to get it done; Eddie chose to overlook my irritability today
335. Really grateful and amazed that Nathan's knee seems to be okay.
336. Eddie's two-week vacation... it was nice to not have a schedule/routine
337. Eddie going to back to work.... :) LOL... it's nice to get back on a schedule/routine.
338. Being at Nathan's game tonight to see him make an outstanding throw from centerfield to home plate on the fly to cut off a run at the plate. That was so exciting. And sometimes I miss his games due to the other kids' activities, so I'm glad I was there to see it.
339. Learning to give grace to others.... Sigh.... so very difficult when you see grown men acting so immature... need lots of wisdom and direction from God so I can use these situations to teach Nathan how to handle these things.
340. Sarah's extra hugs and attention lately... she's kind of been a "mommy's girl" lately and I am treasuring this time with her.
341. Learning something new... even if it is only how to keep the official scorebook for Nathan's team. It's something totally new to me, and I am enjoying it.
342. Getting our school done today... was quite the challenge getting back into a routine after two weeks off.
343. Butterflies.... I saw the first butterfly of this 'Spring' season yesterday... it just fluttered by me as I was walking... a reminder of the change of seasons... of God's hand and creation...
344. Getting a good photo of Kyle up to bat... his first year playing baseball... so happy I can take photos of him for my brother...
345. Eddie got to take Ryan to his Stomp class this past Saturday... he usually misses it because he works every Saturday but was able to take him this past week...
346. Sarah picked a song for her next CYT audition... It's sooooooooo good to see her not be afraid to try again after not being cast in the last show. She's really working on improving for this next audition. I'm so proud of her.
347. Home videos... Wow, these are so precious to me.... had so much fun with the five of us sitting down and watching when my kids were all under the age of five... what a blessing to have these.
348. Ryan's ability to help me on the computer... I downloaded a song onto the computer for Sarah's audition; however, it was too long in length. Ryan knew just how to help me cut out the middle of the song and make it sound as if it was the original piece! So amazing to me that he knew how to do that... self taught! So grateful he knew how to do that... he saved me hours of frustration and time!
337. Eddie going to back to work.... :) LOL... it's nice to get back on a schedule/routine.
338. Being at Nathan's game tonight to see him make an outstanding throw from centerfield to home plate on the fly to cut off a run at the plate. That was so exciting. And sometimes I miss his games due to the other kids' activities, so I'm glad I was there to see it.
339. Learning to give grace to others.... Sigh.... so very difficult when you see grown men acting so immature... need lots of wisdom and direction from God so I can use these situations to teach Nathan how to handle these things.
340. Sarah's extra hugs and attention lately... she's kind of been a "mommy's girl" lately and I am treasuring this time with her.
341. Learning something new... even if it is only how to keep the official scorebook for Nathan's team. It's something totally new to me, and I am enjoying it.
342. Getting our school done today... was quite the challenge getting back into a routine after two weeks off.
343. Butterflies.... I saw the first butterfly of this 'Spring' season yesterday... it just fluttered by me as I was walking... a reminder of the change of seasons... of God's hand and creation...
344. Getting a good photo of Kyle up to bat... his first year playing baseball... so happy I can take photos of him for my brother...
345. Eddie got to take Ryan to his Stomp class this past Saturday... he usually misses it because he works every Saturday but was able to take him this past week...
346. Sarah picked a song for her next CYT audition... It's sooooooooo good to see her not be afraid to try again after not being cast in the last show. She's really working on improving for this next audition. I'm so proud of her.
347. Home videos... Wow, these are so precious to me.... had so much fun with the five of us sitting down and watching when my kids were all under the age of five... what a blessing to have these.
348. Ryan's ability to help me on the computer... I downloaded a song onto the computer for Sarah's audition; however, it was too long in length. Ryan knew just how to help me cut out the middle of the song and make it sound as if it was the original piece! So amazing to me that he knew how to do that... self taught! So grateful he knew how to do that... he saved me hours of frustration and time!
349. My brother was hired to work at his brother-in-law's electrical company today! Huge answered prayer! Thank you, Lord! Still praying for God to provide transportation... and most importantly for him to know the Lord's salvation....
350. Found an inexpensive tap dance class with other homeschoolers for Sarah to attend, and it fits "perfectly" into our schedule. Answered prayer.
350. Found an inexpensive tap dance class with other homeschoolers for Sarah to attend, and it fits "perfectly" into our schedule. Answered prayer.
351. Today's reading in my devotional book, Streams in the Desert: "Stay there until I tell you." (Matthew 2:13) "...O restless heart -- beating against the prison bars of your circumstances and longing for a wider realm of usefulness -- allow God to direct all your days. Patience and trust, even in the midst of the monotony of your daily routine, will be the best preparation to courageously handle the stress and strain of a greater opportunity, which God may someday send."
352. Seeing Ryan and Sarah work towards a piano goal and then perform today.
353. Church today... a reminder to hold onto my faith... to not stop trusting the Lord...
354. Worship music today... I really love singing to the Lord.
355. Hope in God.... with this healthcare bill passing the House today, I found myself very upset over it... that has really caused me to stop and remember where my hope lies... my hope is not in man, but in the Lord. He is the sustainer of all things... He has allowed this bill to pass... and though I don't understand why, I still need to trust Him... trust Him to take care of my children's future...
356. Grateful that Eddie and I agree on things politically
357. Grateful that my boys are interested in what's going on politically... praying that God would raise them up to be a voice for Him in their generation... that they would learn to stand for what's right when everyone else is choosing to give into corruption and deceit...
353. Church today... a reminder to hold onto my faith... to not stop trusting the Lord...
354. Worship music today... I really love singing to the Lord.
355. Hope in God.... with this healthcare bill passing the House today, I found myself very upset over it... that has really caused me to stop and remember where my hope lies... my hope is not in man, but in the Lord. He is the sustainer of all things... He has allowed this bill to pass... and though I don't understand why, I still need to trust Him... trust Him to take care of my children's future...
356. Grateful that Eddie and I agree on things politically
357. Grateful that my boys are interested in what's going on politically... praying that God would raise them up to be a voice for Him in their generation... that they would learn to stand for what's right when everyone else is choosing to give into corruption and deceit...
358. Getting to see Wendy's dad today at Costco!
359. Seeing Nathan mature in how he is handling sports-related things... for example, tonight he struck out and then jogged back into the dugout without any signs of a bad attitude. That is great progress from last year! Praise God for His grace and helping me persevere in teaching Nathan these things.
360. Seeing Nathan being given a fair chance to prove himself on his new baseball team. Thank You, Lord. I was concerned when I found out who his coaches were and was really unsure of how it would go. It's still early, but so far, so good. In fact, Nathan has been batting in the cleanup spot the past two games, which is really great for an eleven-year-old in the Majors division.
361. Ryan has a semi part-time job! He is being asked to work snack bar shifts for parents who don't want to work it and getting paid to do so!
362. Sarah's sweet attitude of wanting to be my helper lately... asking me to show her how to do the laundry, etc. Precious time with her.
359. Seeing Nathan mature in how he is handling sports-related things... for example, tonight he struck out and then jogged back into the dugout without any signs of a bad attitude. That is great progress from last year! Praise God for His grace and helping me persevere in teaching Nathan these things.
360. Seeing Nathan being given a fair chance to prove himself on his new baseball team. Thank You, Lord. I was concerned when I found out who his coaches were and was really unsure of how it would go. It's still early, but so far, so good. In fact, Nathan has been batting in the cleanup spot the past two games, which is really great for an eleven-year-old in the Majors division.
361. Ryan has a semi part-time job! He is being asked to work snack bar shifts for parents who don't want to work it and getting paid to do so!
362. Sarah's sweet attitude of wanting to be my helper lately... asking me to show her how to do the laundry, etc. Precious time with her.
363. Grateful to God for giving Sarah a part in the upcoming Snoopy production.
364. Enjoyed having Ryan with me during Sarah's audition... gave him a neat appreciation for her courage.
365. Grateful to be able to watch Ryan in his percussion movement class yesterday. Jim or my mom have been taking him lately, so I haven't seen him play in a while. His teacher often uses him as the example for the other kids to watch. Wow! I had no idea how good he is! Such a blessing to see my kids using the talents God gave them and enjoy them so much.
366. God's patience with me as I work through "dad issues".
367. God's mercy... just wrote down Sarah's upcoming CYT rehearsal and show schedule on my calendar and there aren't many conflicts with my other kids' activities. So grateful for that.
368. Grateful for my mom and Jim who are always so willing to help me out on Saturdays with the kids' activities.
369. Self-control... fruit of the Spirit... God has been working on it with me... I was able to keep my voice low and calm today in dealing with Ryan's bad attitude even when he got upset.
370. Scripture... grateful for the little that I have memorized over the years and how God is faithful to bring it to my mind even still.
371. Weight loss... grateful to see the scale move a little in the right direction after three weeks of exercising regularly. Praying for consistency and determination to continue.
372. Healing.... Sarah had a horrible cough two days before her audition. We prayed for God to heal her voice before her audition and He was so kind to heal her.
373.Opportunity to improve... Nathan's baseball team is receiving batting instruction by UCSD's batting coach today.
374. Opportunity for my mom... praying that God would bless herAvon efforts
375. Sarah's maturity and willingness to work ahead... today is Sunday and she opted to do tomorrow's math assignment so we can have a shopping day together while the boys are at SAT testing.
376. Financial direction... we are going to go back to "cash only" again... praying for God's help in that.
364. Enjoyed having Ryan with me during Sarah's audition... gave him a neat appreciation for her courage.
365. Grateful to be able to watch Ryan in his percussion movement class yesterday. Jim or my mom have been taking him lately, so I haven't seen him play in a while. His teacher often uses him as the example for the other kids to watch. Wow! I had no idea how good he is! Such a blessing to see my kids using the talents God gave them and enjoy them so much.
366. God's patience with me as I work through "dad issues".
367. God's mercy... just wrote down Sarah's upcoming CYT rehearsal and show schedule on my calendar and there aren't many conflicts with my other kids' activities. So grateful for that.
368. Grateful for my mom and Jim who are always so willing to help me out on Saturdays with the kids' activities.
369. Self-control... fruit of the Spirit... God has been working on it with me... I was able to keep my voice low and calm today in dealing with Ryan's bad attitude even when he got upset.
370. Scripture... grateful for the little that I have memorized over the years and how God is faithful to bring it to my mind even still.
371. Weight loss... grateful to see the scale move a little in the right direction after three weeks of exercising regularly. Praying for consistency and determination to continue.
372. Healing.... Sarah had a horrible cough two days before her audition. We prayed for God to heal her voice before her audition and He was so kind to heal her.
373.
374. Opportunity for my mom... praying that God would bless her
375. Sarah's maturity and willingness to work ahead... today is Sunday and she opted to do tomorrow's math assignment so we can have a shopping day together while the boys are at SAT testing.
376. Financial direction... we are going to go back to "cash only" again... praying for God's help in that.
377. Fellowship with friends this past Saturday morning.
378. Being able to ask hard questions... God can handle my confusion
379. Easter service at church
380. My daughter turning nine years old... so blessed she is my child.
381. Safe, sturdy buildings inCalifornia
382. Corvette Diner for Sarah's birthday. Fun family memories.
383. Kleenex... ha! Yes, I'm thankful for Kleenex this morning as my allergies are just making me miserable.
378. Being able to ask hard questions... God can handle my confusion
379. Easter service at church
380. My daughter turning nine years old... so blessed she is my child.
381. Safe, sturdy buildings in
382. Corvette Diner for Sarah's birthday. Fun family memories.
383. Kleenex... ha! Yes, I'm thankful for Kleenex this morning as my allergies are just making me miserable.
384. Grateful for God's grace in getting my dad and Maxx here safely.
385. Grateful that my brother and his family came over tonight for a visit
386. Grateful that my kids and my brother's kids love each other and get along so well.
387. Grateful that my brother has a job he loves and can grow professionally in.
388. Grateful seeing God's hand in providing a new future job possibility for my sister-in-law as the place she is at now is going to be coming to an end soon.
389. Grateful to see my dad tonight... to hug him.... I miss him so much
390. Grateful for time with just my brother and sister-in-law tonight to talk and laugh together.
391. Grateful to God for bringing me to a place where I can rest in Him..
392. Grateful that I have a Heavenly Father that I can cling to who won't let go of me
393. Grateful for my work, even though it feels like way too much right now
394. Grateful for the friendship I have with my mom
395. Grateful to my husband for being a shoulder to lean on today.
396. Grateful for Ryan stepping up and voluntarily helping me clean today.
397. Grateful for the time cuddling with Nathan today while we watched the Padres game together.
398. Grateful for my tenderhearted daughter.
399. Grateful for prayerful friends
400. Grateful for friends (Wendy) who speaks truth to me even though I may not be in the right frame of mind to hear it.
401. Grateful for forgiveness.
402. Grateful that Lance came to Nathan's game on Saturday and Nathan had a great game (basehit and two outstanding catches in centerfield). That meant a lot to Nathan to have his uncle there.... what a blessing.
403. Grateful for my nephews.... they are both a bundle of energy!
404. Grateful for chocolate chip cookie dough!
385. Grateful that my brother and his family came over tonight for a visit
386. Grateful that my kids and my brother's kids love each other and get along so well.
387. Grateful that my brother has a job he loves and can grow professionally in.
388. Grateful seeing God's hand in providing a new future job possibility for my sister-in-law as the place she is at now is going to be coming to an end soon.
389. Grateful to see my dad tonight... to hug him.... I miss him so much
390. Grateful for time with just my brother and sister-in-law tonight to talk and laugh together.
391. Grateful to God for bringing me to a place where I can rest in Him..
392. Grateful that I have a Heavenly Father that I can cling to who won't let go of me
393. Grateful for my work, even though it feels like way too much right now
394. Grateful for the friendship I have with my mom
395. Grateful to my husband for being a shoulder to lean on today.
396. Grateful for Ryan stepping up and voluntarily helping me clean today.
397. Grateful for the time cuddling with Nathan today while we watched the Padres game together.
398. Grateful for my tenderhearted daughter.
399. Grateful for prayerful friends
400. Grateful for friends (Wendy) who speaks truth to me even though I may not be in the right frame of mind to hear it.
401. Grateful for forgiveness.
402. Grateful that Lance came to Nathan's game on Saturday and Nathan had a great game (basehit and two outstanding catches in centerfield). That meant a lot to Nathan to have his uncle there.... what a blessing.
403. Grateful for my nephews.... they are both a bundle of energy!
404. Grateful for chocolate chip cookie dough!
******* 07/23/10*******
405. Grateful for cool morning weather during Sarah’s dance class so I can sit in my van and work.
406. Grateful that we live a mere 30 minutes from the ocean and can go to the bay for the day.
407. Grateful for Nathan’s 2010 All Star season.. especially his game-winning homerun that put us into bracket play – Thank You, Lord, for that!
408. Grateful for talks with Ryan
409. Grateful for Sarah’s sweet heart
410. Grateful for almost 17 years of marriage (in two days)
*****08/24/10********
411. Grateful for midnight talks with Ryan. Lord, I pray that You will help me keep the communication lines open between us. Please keep him safe and speak to him in the quietness of his heart and draw him to You…
412. Time at the bay today with my mom. So grateful we live just a mere 30-minute drive from the ocean where the weather is cooler and the kids can play.
**** Starting again 02/28/2011 ****
413. Planes that fly high above miniature cities so I can visit loved ones at a moment's notice
414. Time with my dad
415. Empty bathroom so I can cry in private
416. Cleansing tears
417. Kids that miss me
418. Husband that misses me
419. Routine
420. Yellow-breasted birds
421. Yellow and orange flowers in the midst of weeds
422. Soccer practice with Sarah
423. Today (03/25/11), after my visit with Sandy (while she was here for her dad’s funeral), Nathan asked me how my visit went. Then, later tonight after Sarah’s CYT audition, he asked her how her audition went. Sweet, thoughtful boy. J
424. Precious time with one of my best friends, Sandy… so glad I could spend some time with her today, even though it was short.
425. Sarah’s audition tonight…. What a blessing to see her grow over these past few years…. Whether or not she is cast in the show, it’s a wonderful experience and opportunity.
426. Sun reflected on the waqter
427. The beautiful green color on the duck's head
428. Ability to walk
429. Yellow & white flowers
430. Cool breeze of the wind
431. Babies carried in their dad's backpack
432. Hiking a mountain
433. Photography - being able to capture a moment
434. The chatter of ducks as they waddle along
435. Deep blue skies
436. Wispy clouds
437. Ache of muscles weary from exercise
438. Beat of a drum...and fingers tapping..and all things percussion
426. Sun reflected on the waqter
427. The beautiful green color on the duck's head
428. Ability to walk
429. Yellow & white flowers
430. Cool breeze of the wind
431. Babies carried in their dad's backpack
432. Hiking a mountain
433. Photography - being able to capture a moment
434. The chatter of ducks as they waddle along
435. Deep blue skies
436. Wispy clouds
437. Ache of muscles weary from exercise
438. Beat of a drum...and fingers tapping..and all things percussion
439. New, noisy dishwasher
440. Patience of my husband
441. Time with my dad
442. My dad getting to see Nathan play basketball this past Sunday
443. My dad going to Sarah’s Music Man show tomorrow night
444. Maxine’s loving care towards my dad
445. My dad taking Ryan to one of his Jr. Crew performances
446. Lots of time that Ryan is getting to spend with my dad
447. My dad getting to go to Nathan’s baseball game today…. Even though, honestly, this one is a hard one…. Nathan was quite upset after the game because he struck out twice and his team lost and he really wanted to have a good game with his grandpa there. L Makes me sad that THAT will be Nathan's memory…. But I’m trying to just be grateful that my dad was there.
448. Another day with my dad – making his favorite meal (a taco feast) for him.
449. A play-date for Sarah with a friend from dance class. (Asking the Lord now for protection over her time there)
450. Dentistry… I’m sitting at the dentist right now while Ryan gets a cavity filled. Grateful for healthcare.
451. Ryan becoming “drum captain” on his Jr. Crew team.
452. Starbucks mocha coffee.
453. Anesthesia – took Ryan to the E.R. today when he cut his finger.
454. Doctors – so grateful for those who can do what I cannot.
455. The vast sky full of big, cotton-ball clouds everywhere I look today.
456. Sarah’s infectious laughter
457. Piano… love listening to the piano
458. Nathan making the All Stars baseball team (2011)
459. Answered prayer – Nathan’s last year in little league was fun for him and he had a good coach that he really liked playing for.
460. Unlimited dance for Sarah & me over the summer (even though it has reminded me just how much older I am).
461. Tap dancing
462. Musical theater
463. A wonderful, encouraging dance teacher
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Bring the rain
Holy, Holy, Holy... is the Lord, God Almighty... Rain or Shine, I trust in Him
This song by MercyMe encouraged and strengthened me today & I wanted to share it.
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