2 Samuel 22:7
In my distress I called to the LORD; I called out to my God. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came to his ears.
Today was definately a cup half empty day for my poor little Wyatt, or so my mother in law would put it. He was so full of energy but lacking in listening skills. At our home we have house rules, they are the rules of the road so that everyone is on the same page and accidents, spills, and lawlessness is held to a minimum. Wyatt decided that he wanted to run with a screwdriver, hit his little brother on the head with a toy (luckily it was a soft toy), and argue with Jacob for ten minutes about wanting two cookies (one for each hand) instead of just one. He wanted to live by his rules but as we all know he doesn't get to make the rules. I think about how much Wyatt cried and whined today, it was "just one of those days" for him. But many times he cried out my name, "mama." All too often I find it easy to cry out to others in our time of stress and need; overlooking entirely that God is always the first one we should cry to. For Wyatt he is two the only person he knows to cry out to is me, but I know better. I know that as much as I love my husband, mom, or best friend they are not the #1 person I should go to. Seeing Wyatt push his boundaries today was a firm reminder that I need to remember before anyone else hears my cry that it is God's desire to hear me bellow out my pleas, cries, and innermost thoughts.
Well here goes. . . I think kids are an amazing gift and blessing from God, so I have set out to blog how they bless me, teach me, and impact my life daily. How watching them shows me God's love and purpose for us. Lastly, how he uses me to teach them also.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Day fourteen, brotherly love
Psalm 133:1
[ A song of ascents. Of David. ] How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!
So today my office took the day off. I was excited about the idea of an extra day off. I woke to the glorious sound of Camden coo-ing in his crib and Wyatt kicking his foot like a super hero against his bedroom wall. The day was wonderful we helped Jacob at the church we had a fun lunch and watched Mickey together then two serene quiet hours of mommy time while they both napped. Abby and Cade came over for dinner and a play date. It was so adorable to watch our two boys play together. Up until this point in their lives the boys played in the same area but never really played together. Tonight they played catch, jump, and danced around the kitchen together.
Whether our boys are blood related or not, they are always going to be brothers in Christ and to see them play in UNITY together was great. Abby and I both looked on with twinkles in our eyes and a profound love exuding from our hearts. We have seen our boys grow, but now we are able to witness them growing up together. We watched them play a little too rough, and both of them bring the baby toys, we saw them hug each other when they bonked heads, we saw them enjoying life together. It was a sight I whole heartedly loved to watch and one I can't wait to see again.
[ A song of ascents. Of David. ] How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!
So today my office took the day off. I was excited about the idea of an extra day off. I woke to the glorious sound of Camden coo-ing in his crib and Wyatt kicking his foot like a super hero against his bedroom wall. The day was wonderful we helped Jacob at the church we had a fun lunch and watched Mickey together then two serene quiet hours of mommy time while they both napped. Abby and Cade came over for dinner and a play date. It was so adorable to watch our two boys play together. Up until this point in their lives the boys played in the same area but never really played together. Tonight they played catch, jump, and danced around the kitchen together.
Whether our boys are blood related or not, they are always going to be brothers in Christ and to see them play in UNITY together was great. Abby and I both looked on with twinkles in our eyes and a profound love exuding from our hearts. We have seen our boys grow, but now we are able to witness them growing up together. We watched them play a little too rough, and both of them bring the baby toys, we saw them hug each other when they bonked heads, we saw them enjoying life together. It was a sight I whole heartedly loved to watch and one I can't wait to see again.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Day 10,11,12,13
John 7:33
Jesus said, "I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me.
Galatians 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Colossians 1:11
being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience
Well my last few days were away from computer. I took a long jump across the pond (the pond that is Washington) and traveled back to Lake Tapps to visit my parents. For me the sheer thought of traveling in the car for five hours or so with a two year old and four month old terrified me. My sweet mother-in-law traveled with me. On Thursday the drive was a lesson on time. Time is relative or some may say, but to a two year old it is measured in a short attention span and to a four month old it is measured in how long until my next feeding or poop. I prayed thoroughly for the trip and to my chagrin it was excellent. My mother in law packed a bag for Wyatt filled with crafts and games from the dollar store. He loved the trip! He loved the crafts and we made it over in five hours on the dot. This was a lesson in time, and how to fill time instead of stress out about too much time, or not enough time, or what to do with my time.
Day two was a lesson in patience, not so much for me but for Wyatt. The boys woke early and had a delicious egg breakfast prepared by Grandpa Rico. Then we decided to go golfing, with the hopes that Wyatt would make it a few holes. To my surprise Wyatt made it all nine holes and cried when we had to go home. He helped drive the cart, had his own yellow golf ball that he held the entire time, and was very good at standing next to grandpa and watching all the action. Wyatt has one speed and it is usually all fast all the time. But to see him go golfing and stand quiet and patient while they tee'd off, drove, and putted was amazing to watch. He wanted to be a big boy and be involved so much that he reflected that in his behavior. It also showed me that anything is possible.
Endurance is the last thing that I was taught. While visiting the rents I stayed with Camden at my mom's house while Wyatt stayed at an over nighter with grandpa down the street. Camden, my four month old, is so sweet. He is the biggest lover and cuddler that I have ever met. He eats well (96th percentile) and sleeps like a gem. He adheres to a pretty tight schedule that I am a fan of because it leaves me with little surprises. But the last night of visiting he threw me for a loop, he was acting fussy and about ready for bed so I changed him and got him ready. As I sat down to feed him he erupted with a wail of tear and screaming. I sat him up and started to rock him once settled I tried to feed him again, that did not go any better in fact I think the decibel level was higher the second time. I checked him over, no fever, nothing pinching him, tried to work out some toots with leg exercises but nothing seemed to work, poor little man just seemed to be getting fussier and fussier. I walked with him, bounced him, sat and listened to the sound of the fountain outside, and he finally calmed. But then I made the mistake of seeing if he wanted to feed again. That was a big old ear rippling NOOOOO!!!!!!! To make a long story short the night consisted of me, my mom, and grandpa eddie taking turns pacing and lulling Camden to sleep. After we got him down, two hours later, he slept through the night like a gem and started his schedule as usual with boobie breakfast at 5am. That was the a lesson in patience to be remembered.
As I put this weekend in my rear view mirror I can reflect on my amazing lessons in time, patience, and endurance. I thank God for each lesson for it made me appreciate what I have been blessed with a hundred times over.
Jesus said, "I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me.
Galatians 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Colossians 1:11
being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience
Well my last few days were away from computer. I took a long jump across the pond (the pond that is Washington) and traveled back to Lake Tapps to visit my parents. For me the sheer thought of traveling in the car for five hours or so with a two year old and four month old terrified me. My sweet mother-in-law traveled with me. On Thursday the drive was a lesson on time. Time is relative or some may say, but to a two year old it is measured in a short attention span and to a four month old it is measured in how long until my next feeding or poop. I prayed thoroughly for the trip and to my chagrin it was excellent. My mother in law packed a bag for Wyatt filled with crafts and games from the dollar store. He loved the trip! He loved the crafts and we made it over in five hours on the dot. This was a lesson in time, and how to fill time instead of stress out about too much time, or not enough time, or what to do with my time.
Day two was a lesson in patience, not so much for me but for Wyatt. The boys woke early and had a delicious egg breakfast prepared by Grandpa Rico. Then we decided to go golfing, with the hopes that Wyatt would make it a few holes. To my surprise Wyatt made it all nine holes and cried when we had to go home. He helped drive the cart, had his own yellow golf ball that he held the entire time, and was very good at standing next to grandpa and watching all the action. Wyatt has one speed and it is usually all fast all the time. But to see him go golfing and stand quiet and patient while they tee'd off, drove, and putted was amazing to watch. He wanted to be a big boy and be involved so much that he reflected that in his behavior. It also showed me that anything is possible.
Endurance is the last thing that I was taught. While visiting the rents I stayed with Camden at my mom's house while Wyatt stayed at an over nighter with grandpa down the street. Camden, my four month old, is so sweet. He is the biggest lover and cuddler that I have ever met. He eats well (96th percentile) and sleeps like a gem. He adheres to a pretty tight schedule that I am a fan of because it leaves me with little surprises. But the last night of visiting he threw me for a loop, he was acting fussy and about ready for bed so I changed him and got him ready. As I sat down to feed him he erupted with a wail of tear and screaming. I sat him up and started to rock him once settled I tried to feed him again, that did not go any better in fact I think the decibel level was higher the second time. I checked him over, no fever, nothing pinching him, tried to work out some toots with leg exercises but nothing seemed to work, poor little man just seemed to be getting fussier and fussier. I walked with him, bounced him, sat and listened to the sound of the fountain outside, and he finally calmed. But then I made the mistake of seeing if he wanted to feed again. That was a big old ear rippling NOOOOO!!!!!!! To make a long story short the night consisted of me, my mom, and grandpa eddie taking turns pacing and lulling Camden to sleep. After we got him down, two hours later, he slept through the night like a gem and started his schedule as usual with boobie breakfast at 5am. That was the a lesson in patience to be remembered.
As I put this weekend in my rear view mirror I can reflect on my amazing lessons in time, patience, and endurance. I thank God for each lesson for it made me appreciate what I have been blessed with a hundred times over.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Day 9- We are Family
1 Timothy 5:8
If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
Every Wednesday I faithfully serve as a leader for high school youth group night at our church. I love this age group, how raw and honest they are. My teenage year were probably some of the most trying times for me. The choices you are presented with, the peer-pressure. It compounds into a huge learning ball, and sometimes that ball throws a curve your way. While I am at group and Jacob works late Wyatt goes and stays with grandma and grandpa for a few hours (jacob's dad and step-mom). Wyatt loves this time, he talks the entire car ride about it, things he remembers from the week before. It fascinates me how he retains minuscule details. When I work three days a week Nana, aka Jacobs mom, watches the boys. Wyatt loves his Nana, he laughs with her, tells me stories of what they did during the day. It fills my heart with joy and elation to know that not only are Wyatt and Camden being watched by people who unconditionally love them but he grows in his love for them too. My parents and I have become huge fans of Skype, since they live 350 miles away it is the next best thing to in person. When I ask Wyatt if he wants to talk to Ya-ya he gets so excited and runs to the computer, same with my dad. If they lived closer I know they would be extremely hands on grandparents all of them (mom,grandpa eddie, dad and karen). Isn't it so true that God commands us to be families, he wants us all to come together and grow our future generations. It is not just one parent or person's job but it is the job of the entire family to provide for the children. He even lets us know to deny that is worse than an unbeliever. WOW! I relish in the fact that Wyatt and Camden are surrounded by a family who took heed to this bit of scripture and embrace their roles. Their chance to keep their legacy, learning, and God alive in their grandchildren. So parents THANK YOU. From the bottom of my soul, THANK YOU, all of you!
If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
Every Wednesday I faithfully serve as a leader for high school youth group night at our church. I love this age group, how raw and honest they are. My teenage year were probably some of the most trying times for me. The choices you are presented with, the peer-pressure. It compounds into a huge learning ball, and sometimes that ball throws a curve your way. While I am at group and Jacob works late Wyatt goes and stays with grandma and grandpa for a few hours (jacob's dad and step-mom). Wyatt loves this time, he talks the entire car ride about it, things he remembers from the week before. It fascinates me how he retains minuscule details. When I work three days a week Nana, aka Jacobs mom, watches the boys. Wyatt loves his Nana, he laughs with her, tells me stories of what they did during the day. It fills my heart with joy and elation to know that not only are Wyatt and Camden being watched by people who unconditionally love them but he grows in his love for them too. My parents and I have become huge fans of Skype, since they live 350 miles away it is the next best thing to in person. When I ask Wyatt if he wants to talk to Ya-ya he gets so excited and runs to the computer, same with my dad. If they lived closer I know they would be extremely hands on grandparents all of them (mom,grandpa eddie, dad and karen). Isn't it so true that God commands us to be families, he wants us all to come together and grow our future generations. It is not just one parent or person's job but it is the job of the entire family to provide for the children. He even lets us know to deny that is worse than an unbeliever. WOW! I relish in the fact that Wyatt and Camden are surrounded by a family who took heed to this bit of scripture and embrace their roles. Their chance to keep their legacy, learning, and God alive in their grandchildren. So parents THANK YOU. From the bottom of my soul, THANK YOU, all of you!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Day Eight-Friendship Park
Luke 15:6
Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.'
Today I took Wyatt and Camden to the park (Friendship Park to be precise). We met some good friends Abby, Bethany, and Cade there. We sat on large beach blankets talked, laughed, and played. The boys were so cute and loving with one another. Two year olds often lack the sharing vibe but our two boys played in the dirt, ran real fast (or so we told them) and also went down the big orange slide. As we sat in friendship and fun I pondered the thought of how many kids on that play ground were lost sheep waiting to be found? Today's lesson isn't deep or profound just a simple desire for all of his lost sheep to be found. And the key is our children, once they are found they never wander alone, they have Jesus holding them for the rest of their lives
Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.'
Today I took Wyatt and Camden to the park (Friendship Park to be precise). We met some good friends Abby, Bethany, and Cade there. We sat on large beach blankets talked, laughed, and played. The boys were so cute and loving with one another. Two year olds often lack the sharing vibe but our two boys played in the dirt, ran real fast (or so we told them) and also went down the big orange slide. As we sat in friendship and fun I pondered the thought of how many kids on that play ground were lost sheep waiting to be found? Today's lesson isn't deep or profound just a simple desire for all of his lost sheep to be found. And the key is our children, once they are found they never wander alone, they have Jesus holding them for the rest of their lives
Monday, August 23, 2010
Day Seven- Ouch
2 Corinthians 8:21
For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.
Today I had an hour lunch break and came home. As soon as I opened the garage door I hear Wyatt's sweet high-pitched squeel saying "mama, mama." I also heard a high-pitched cry coming from Camden who was very excited to see me, but as his source of nourishment. I quickly picked up Camden and started to feed him, Wyatt finished his lunch and our friend, Kendra, who was watching the boys cleaned him up and as soon as he was out of his chair he bee-lined it to the couch where Camden and I were. Wyatt was jumping, talking, kissing me, hugging me, and smiling as large as the Cheshire Cat. He was giving Camden sweet pats and hugging him with love and kindness. We read books, cuddled, and spent quality time together. As a mom I feel like getting to spend this kind of time with my family is a gift from God. But amidst the wonderful time Wyatt started to jump on the couch, if any of you know him his forehead is like a magnet for crashes. I calmly and softly reminded Wyatt we don't jump on the couch and that it is not a good idea. Wyatt looked at me, stopped jumping, and said "Yes." He knew the right answer, he knew the rules, but today he wanted to push me and test his boundaries. A few seconds later he started to jump again, I gave him one warning and then it was time out (please keep in mind Camden is still hooked up to the feeding wagon so my mobility was a bit compromised). Within the first two jumps Wyatt toppled head over tea-kettle and wound up with a giant knot on his head. Silence then proceeded but it was quickly drowned out by the deafening wail that came from Wyatt's mouth. Seconds later Camden was startled and started to cry also, my house drifted from the sweet sounds of quality time to those of pain and sorrow.
Wyatt knew the right answer, he understood the rules, but he deliberately disobeyed and payed the consequences. It is often easier said than done to know the right answer to the rules than to obey them at all times. Wyatt had to learn the hard way this time. I have had to learn the hard way with God at times, knowing the right answer but pushing it aside for my own feelings. I am sure Wyatt will learn many more lessons the hard way but I pray that when the time comes later in life he will have a firmly rooted foundation in God's rules and consistently choose right in both words and actions.
For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.
Today I had an hour lunch break and came home. As soon as I opened the garage door I hear Wyatt's sweet high-pitched squeel saying "mama, mama." I also heard a high-pitched cry coming from Camden who was very excited to see me, but as his source of nourishment. I quickly picked up Camden and started to feed him, Wyatt finished his lunch and our friend, Kendra, who was watching the boys cleaned him up and as soon as he was out of his chair he bee-lined it to the couch where Camden and I were. Wyatt was jumping, talking, kissing me, hugging me, and smiling as large as the Cheshire Cat. He was giving Camden sweet pats and hugging him with love and kindness. We read books, cuddled, and spent quality time together. As a mom I feel like getting to spend this kind of time with my family is a gift from God. But amidst the wonderful time Wyatt started to jump on the couch, if any of you know him his forehead is like a magnet for crashes. I calmly and softly reminded Wyatt we don't jump on the couch and that it is not a good idea. Wyatt looked at me, stopped jumping, and said "Yes." He knew the right answer, he knew the rules, but today he wanted to push me and test his boundaries. A few seconds later he started to jump again, I gave him one warning and then it was time out (please keep in mind Camden is still hooked up to the feeding wagon so my mobility was a bit compromised). Within the first two jumps Wyatt toppled head over tea-kettle and wound up with a giant knot on his head. Silence then proceeded but it was quickly drowned out by the deafening wail that came from Wyatt's mouth. Seconds later Camden was startled and started to cry also, my house drifted from the sweet sounds of quality time to those of pain and sorrow.
Wyatt knew the right answer, he understood the rules, but he deliberately disobeyed and payed the consequences. It is often easier said than done to know the right answer to the rules than to obey them at all times. Wyatt had to learn the hard way this time. I have had to learn the hard way with God at times, knowing the right answer but pushing it aside for my own feelings. I am sure Wyatt will learn many more lessons the hard way but I pray that when the time comes later in life he will have a firmly rooted foundation in God's rules and consistently choose right in both words and actions.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Day Six- Manito
Hebrews 4:16
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
This evening after a long day of church, family pictures, and a short nap for the two year old; Jacob and I decided to take the whole family to Manito Park. I convinced Jacob that we should take the dog too, that we were going out as a whole family. We took the time to pack the double stroller, the kids, blankets, extra clothes, snacks, water, and had to stop on the way for a new dog leash. It was an effort just to make it to the park. Once there we strolled along paths high and low, enjoying the mild heat and time together. After a while of walking we decided to go to the playground area and let Wyatt blow off a little more steam. Keesa (our sweet but very hyper chocolate lab) had finally settled so the playground seemed to be the perfect place to spend our last few minutes at the park. We arrived to the wooden castle of wonder (aka the play toy) and Wyatt jumped out of the stroller running full blast to the sleek blue slide. For a few minutes he was the only one on the play toy but soon a mother walked over with her two children (a five year old boy and three year old girl). The mom was cradling her three year old and asked us if our dog was friendly (for any of you who know keesa you know she is beyond friendly), our response was, "of course, just watch out she may lick you to death." The mom quietly talked to the little girl then asked if they could pet her. The boy jumped at the chance, the little girl was hesitant at first but put her hand out with her mothers coaxing and recieved a big sloppy kiss from keesa. In the next few minutes this mom proceeded to tell us that she is not from this area and only visiting because her mother had a stroke two weeks ago. She started to share details of her stay and how much of a stretch it was to have her mother over here (they are from bellingham but because of Sea-fair the mom was medi-vac'ed to Sacred Heart).
As people we love the human connection, that sweet gentle smile from a stranger in the grocery store saying hello, the genuine "have a good day from a neighbor," or the listening ear from someone in your time of need. I love that because of my family, Keesa included we were able to help listen to this lady in her time of need. We were available to be a shoulder to lean on. I think sometimes it is easy to let people be the ones we turn to in our times of need instead of God. But he tells us and reassures us in life, daily. He makes it clear that he has the ultimate comfort and he is always there to listen. I am so appreciative that we were at the park when we were today, that we were able to comfort that woman in her time of need as a family.
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
This evening after a long day of church, family pictures, and a short nap for the two year old; Jacob and I decided to take the whole family to Manito Park. I convinced Jacob that we should take the dog too, that we were going out as a whole family. We took the time to pack the double stroller, the kids, blankets, extra clothes, snacks, water, and had to stop on the way for a new dog leash. It was an effort just to make it to the park. Once there we strolled along paths high and low, enjoying the mild heat and time together. After a while of walking we decided to go to the playground area and let Wyatt blow off a little more steam. Keesa (our sweet but very hyper chocolate lab) had finally settled so the playground seemed to be the perfect place to spend our last few minutes at the park. We arrived to the wooden castle of wonder (aka the play toy) and Wyatt jumped out of the stroller running full blast to the sleek blue slide. For a few minutes he was the only one on the play toy but soon a mother walked over with her two children (a five year old boy and three year old girl). The mom was cradling her three year old and asked us if our dog was friendly (for any of you who know keesa you know she is beyond friendly), our response was, "of course, just watch out she may lick you to death." The mom quietly talked to the little girl then asked if they could pet her. The boy jumped at the chance, the little girl was hesitant at first but put her hand out with her mothers coaxing and recieved a big sloppy kiss from keesa. In the next few minutes this mom proceeded to tell us that she is not from this area and only visiting because her mother had a stroke two weeks ago. She started to share details of her stay and how much of a stretch it was to have her mother over here (they are from bellingham but because of Sea-fair the mom was medi-vac'ed to Sacred Heart).
As people we love the human connection, that sweet gentle smile from a stranger in the grocery store saying hello, the genuine "have a good day from a neighbor," or the listening ear from someone in your time of need. I love that because of my family, Keesa included we were able to help listen to this lady in her time of need. We were available to be a shoulder to lean on. I think sometimes it is easy to let people be the ones we turn to in our times of need instead of God. But he tells us and reassures us in life, daily. He makes it clear that he has the ultimate comfort and he is always there to listen. I am so appreciative that we were at the park when we were today, that we were able to comfort that woman in her time of need as a family.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Day Five- Lake/Family Day
Isaiah 22:24
All the glory of his family will hang on him: its offspring and offshoots—all its lesser vessels, from the bowls to all the jars.
Today was a great day. I was filled with such humble love and a deep gratitude for my many blessings, most of all I was shown and reminded of my greatest blessings: my husband and my two sons. After three years of being in a bible study together me and the girls decided we wanted to do a couples weekend or family weekend. We, as the girls, spend so much time together and share intimate details about our lives and walks with Christ that we decided we wanted our husbands and families to share time with us. We wanted to get us all together and have some good old fashioned quality time. My family arrived yesterday mid-day. We were welcomed by good friends and a great view. This lake home was incredible. It had a wonderful layout and the back yard was kid friendly and opened up into a breath-taking view of God's beautiful landscaping; trees, mountain ridges, a lake, warm sun, and just the ever-so-slight hint of a cool breeze to top it off. As we spent shoulder-to-shoulder time, quality time, and quiet time with our friends and their families something stuck with me. Now I am not trying to be boastful but as the weekend unfolded I was able to gleam a breathtaking sight; four husbands carefully and thoughtfully taking care of their wives and children.
I understand that every relationship has it's give and take but for me this weekend cinched the deal. This weekend I witnessed husbands coming alongside their wives and loving them unconditionally. I saw fathers and fathers-to-be embracing children besides their own and unconditionally loving them. I witnessed husbands pouring into their wives emotional needs. Just to think about the kind of man I have and the kind of men my friends are surrounded by makes my heart ache with joy. It makes my soul weep with gratitude for the blessing God has rained down on us. Now don't get me wrong, I know we will all have hard times and that nothing is perfect but I hold on to God's promise to us all and see that even when things get tough, even when things look bleak, that because of this memory I know that it will never look hopeless.
The glory of our family should be rooted in Christ but it is true that it hangs on us. God has given us tremendous insight and an unconditional love but it is up to us to proliferate that love and life-style. Now that I look back on it I guess I saw more than four husbands and their actions; I was able to see, after three years spent in bible study with these girls, how two become one. I was able to see the bond, affection, and trust God has put in us.
All the glory of his family will hang on him: its offspring and offshoots—all its lesser vessels, from the bowls to all the jars.
Today was a great day. I was filled with such humble love and a deep gratitude for my many blessings, most of all I was shown and reminded of my greatest blessings: my husband and my two sons. After three years of being in a bible study together me and the girls decided we wanted to do a couples weekend or family weekend. We, as the girls, spend so much time together and share intimate details about our lives and walks with Christ that we decided we wanted our husbands and families to share time with us. We wanted to get us all together and have some good old fashioned quality time. My family arrived yesterday mid-day. We were welcomed by good friends and a great view. This lake home was incredible. It had a wonderful layout and the back yard was kid friendly and opened up into a breath-taking view of God's beautiful landscaping; trees, mountain ridges, a lake, warm sun, and just the ever-so-slight hint of a cool breeze to top it off. As we spent shoulder-to-shoulder time, quality time, and quiet time with our friends and their families something stuck with me. Now I am not trying to be boastful but as the weekend unfolded I was able to gleam a breathtaking sight; four husbands carefully and thoughtfully taking care of their wives and children.
I understand that every relationship has it's give and take but for me this weekend cinched the deal. This weekend I witnessed husbands coming alongside their wives and loving them unconditionally. I saw fathers and fathers-to-be embracing children besides their own and unconditionally loving them. I witnessed husbands pouring into their wives emotional needs. Just to think about the kind of man I have and the kind of men my friends are surrounded by makes my heart ache with joy. It makes my soul weep with gratitude for the blessing God has rained down on us. Now don't get me wrong, I know we will all have hard times and that nothing is perfect but I hold on to God's promise to us all and see that even when things get tough, even when things look bleak, that because of this memory I know that it will never look hopeless.
The glory of our family should be rooted in Christ but it is true that it hangs on us. God has given us tremendous insight and an unconditional love but it is up to us to proliferate that love and life-style. Now that I look back on it I guess I saw more than four husbands and their actions; I was able to see, after three years spent in bible study with these girls, how two become one. I was able to see the bond, affection, and trust God has put in us.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Day Four- Short and sweet
1 John 1:1
[ The Word of Life ] That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.
We see things and hear things everyday. We touch people physically and emotionally. This morning the love of my life, Jacob, heard Wyatt stirring in his room. Jacob jumped out of bed to go get him and say good morning and as I was still rubbing the sleep out of my eyes I heard the sweetest sound coming from Wyatt's room: Jacob was reading Wyatt a story. I roused myself up a minute later to wash my face and as I passed Wyatt's room I saw Jacob laying in the pint-sized toddler bed reading Wyatt a story. This touched my heart, made my soul melt with love.
Do you remember the last time God touched you? We see and touch things daily but we often take for granted or forget to give thanks when God reaches down and touches us. We forget that touch is more than just a physical thing, it has a whole other level with emotional ties. So after this morning I want to thank God for reminding me that touch goes beyond the physical and is centered with him. That through our daily actions he brings about a deep emotional touch. Today I say touch is a word of life, a great gift given from above.
[ The Word of Life ] That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.
We see things and hear things everyday. We touch people physically and emotionally. This morning the love of my life, Jacob, heard Wyatt stirring in his room. Jacob jumped out of bed to go get him and say good morning and as I was still rubbing the sleep out of my eyes I heard the sweetest sound coming from Wyatt's room: Jacob was reading Wyatt a story. I roused myself up a minute later to wash my face and as I passed Wyatt's room I saw Jacob laying in the pint-sized toddler bed reading Wyatt a story. This touched my heart, made my soul melt with love.
Do you remember the last time God touched you? We see and touch things daily but we often take for granted or forget to give thanks when God reaches down and touches us. We forget that touch is more than just a physical thing, it has a whole other level with emotional ties. So after this morning I want to thank God for reminding me that touch goes beyond the physical and is centered with him. That through our daily actions he brings about a deep emotional touch. Today I say touch is a word of life, a great gift given from above.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Day Three-Sad story
Luke 8:18
Therefore consider carefully how you listen.
So today is a bit of a sad story in the parental department. It was a wonderful evening spent with family and friends at my company picnic/BBQ. On the ride home Wyatt was telling us how much fun he had swimming, within a few minutes of the drive home Jacob and I were talking about our days and Wyatt said very loudly, "POOP", (keep in mind this sweet boy IS potty trained, no diapers to fall back on) as he said this I glanced back and saw him shifting in his chair. We had about ten minutes before we were at home and said "almost there", then with a big boo-boo lip he said poop again. He shifted back and forth in his chair eagerly trying to hold it, but ten minutes to him was a lifetime when it came to waiting. To wrap up the story I am now at home washing poo out of his pants and Jacob is hosing him off in the back yard.
As a mom I felt horrible, that he was telling us something and we just assumed he could hold it, we assumed that it wasn't that bad, or that urgent; but he was doing the right thing, he was telling us, hey guys I need to take care of business.
I think, how often do we hear God but not really LISTEN? How often do we assume that what he is telling us can wait, that he can hold it for just a while longer. Whether it is with my two year old or God I learned that listening, truly listening, is the most important thing. Because if you don't listen or try and ask God to hold it you will likely end up with a load of crap, literally and physically.
Therefore consider carefully how you listen.
So today is a bit of a sad story in the parental department. It was a wonderful evening spent with family and friends at my company picnic/BBQ. On the ride home Wyatt was telling us how much fun he had swimming, within a few minutes of the drive home Jacob and I were talking about our days and Wyatt said very loudly, "POOP", (keep in mind this sweet boy IS potty trained, no diapers to fall back on) as he said this I glanced back and saw him shifting in his chair. We had about ten minutes before we were at home and said "almost there", then with a big boo-boo lip he said poop again. He shifted back and forth in his chair eagerly trying to hold it, but ten minutes to him was a lifetime when it came to waiting. To wrap up the story I am now at home washing poo out of his pants and Jacob is hosing him off in the back yard.
As a mom I felt horrible, that he was telling us something and we just assumed he could hold it, we assumed that it wasn't that bad, or that urgent; but he was doing the right thing, he was telling us, hey guys I need to take care of business.
I think, how often do we hear God but not really LISTEN? How often do we assume that what he is telling us can wait, that he can hold it for just a while longer. Whether it is with my two year old or God I learned that listening, truly listening, is the most important thing. Because if you don't listen or try and ask God to hold it you will likely end up with a load of crap, literally and physically.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Day Two- watch! watch!
Genesis 28:15
"I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you."
Today Wyatt (my rambunctious two year old) started something new. Just to give you a little back ground, Wyatt is full of life, constantly going at one speed (fast) and loves to be the center of attention. He is always dancing or singing or digging in the dirt. He deeply loves his baby brother and isn't satisfied unless he gives him one hundred kisses a day (if you think I am joking ask me or Jacob). Today Wyatt was on the bed while I was feeding the baby and looked at me wide eyed and said, "watch, mama, watch!" I looked up at him and said, "okay." Once he knew he had my attention Wyatt looked at Camden (my 4 month old, who keep in mind was very entranced with his meal) and said, "Cam, watch, watch." Being the adult and knowing Camdens cognative skills a little more than Wyatt I said, "okay Cam is watching." Wyatt proceeded to throw the pillow on the bed, take two giant steps, and pile drive it, all the while yelling "JUMP". Then he hopped back up and said "watch, watch." again and again. Later during bath time same thing, "watch, mama, watch." Then he had to show me what a big boy he was and dump water over his head and blow bubbles.
As a child Wyatt has been watched his whole life, whether he knew it or not. But now at the ripe old age of two he is craving to know he is being watched, he wants to know that eyes are on him, that his actions have an impact and are important to others. As a servant of God, I also love knowing that I God is watching me, constantly. He knows all of my actions, flaws, failures, sorrows, hopes, dreams, and desires. I love knowing that even if I tried I could not hide from God.
I often wonder the same of God, he assures us that he is watching us always, but how much does he crave for us to watch him too. That as his loving and faithful servants we are being watched and cared for. Just like Abraham and his following generations were watched after. But I had to stop and think or wonder, do we watch for God as often or at all the way he watches us? So next time (which I am sure will be very soon) when Wyatt asks me to "watch, mama, watch" I will watch him and think of how I can be watching for God in my life, how I can be constantly caring; the same way he constantly cares for all of his children. But more importantly that I can instill in my children that not only am I watching them, but God is too and he will not stop until his promise is fulfilled.
"I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you."
Today Wyatt (my rambunctious two year old) started something new. Just to give you a little back ground, Wyatt is full of life, constantly going at one speed (fast) and loves to be the center of attention. He is always dancing or singing or digging in the dirt. He deeply loves his baby brother and isn't satisfied unless he gives him one hundred kisses a day (if you think I am joking ask me or Jacob). Today Wyatt was on the bed while I was feeding the baby and looked at me wide eyed and said, "watch, mama, watch!" I looked up at him and said, "okay." Once he knew he had my attention Wyatt looked at Camden (my 4 month old, who keep in mind was very entranced with his meal) and said, "Cam, watch, watch." Being the adult and knowing Camdens cognative skills a little more than Wyatt I said, "okay Cam is watching." Wyatt proceeded to throw the pillow on the bed, take two giant steps, and pile drive it, all the while yelling "JUMP". Then he hopped back up and said "watch, watch." again and again. Later during bath time same thing, "watch, mama, watch." Then he had to show me what a big boy he was and dump water over his head and blow bubbles.
As a child Wyatt has been watched his whole life, whether he knew it or not. But now at the ripe old age of two he is craving to know he is being watched, he wants to know that eyes are on him, that his actions have an impact and are important to others. As a servant of God, I also love knowing that I God is watching me, constantly. He knows all of my actions, flaws, failures, sorrows, hopes, dreams, and desires. I love knowing that even if I tried I could not hide from God.
I often wonder the same of God, he assures us that he is watching us always, but how much does he crave for us to watch him too. That as his loving and faithful servants we are being watched and cared for. Just like Abraham and his following generations were watched after. But I had to stop and think or wonder, do we watch for God as often or at all the way he watches us? So next time (which I am sure will be very soon) when Wyatt asks me to "watch, mama, watch" I will watch him and think of how I can be watching for God in my life, how I can be constantly caring; the same way he constantly cares for all of his children. But more importantly that I can instill in my children that not only am I watching them, but God is too and he will not stop until his promise is fulfilled.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Day One
Job 8:21-
He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.
Today Camden (my 4 month old) was a ball of joy and happiness as usual. He never ceases to make me stop with a double take at least once a day; whether it's the amount of drool he is sporting, or his high pitched gurgle that is normally him stretching his voice but can be closely confused with the start of fussing, I at least once a day do the double take. While getting him ready for the day I kissed his sweet bare belly and he let out a laugh. Now I don't just mean a little giggle, I mean a full-out ab work-out laugh. Thinking he might have just been doing his own thing, as a 4-month old often does, I kissed him again and this time the reaction was louder; it trailed off as he pushed all remaining air out of his lungs before sucking in a deep breath and making the laugh go on for another round.
It is crazy that laughter is innate, not just a learned behavior or a mimic. A true innate sense of joy, even at 4 months old God is filling Camden's mouth with laughter. And as his laughter illuminated the room pure joy and love filled my heart. It may not seem as exciting as a first step or his first day of school, but that pure, true, guttural laugh was infectious and filled me too. I look forward to the many days in my future when my loved ones mouths are filled with laughter and their lips shout joy, joy for life but more importantly joy for the Lord.
He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.
Today Camden (my 4 month old) was a ball of joy and happiness as usual. He never ceases to make me stop with a double take at least once a day; whether it's the amount of drool he is sporting, or his high pitched gurgle that is normally him stretching his voice but can be closely confused with the start of fussing, I at least once a day do the double take. While getting him ready for the day I kissed his sweet bare belly and he let out a laugh. Now I don't just mean a little giggle, I mean a full-out ab work-out laugh. Thinking he might have just been doing his own thing, as a 4-month old often does, I kissed him again and this time the reaction was louder; it trailed off as he pushed all remaining air out of his lungs before sucking in a deep breath and making the laugh go on for another round.
It is crazy that laughter is innate, not just a learned behavior or a mimic. A true innate sense of joy, even at 4 months old God is filling Camden's mouth with laughter. And as his laughter illuminated the room pure joy and love filled my heart. It may not seem as exciting as a first step or his first day of school, but that pure, true, guttural laugh was infectious and filled me too. I look forward to the many days in my future when my loved ones mouths are filled with laughter and their lips shout joy, joy for life but more importantly joy for the Lord.
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