IT'S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!

Christmas time is my favorite time of the year. It's a cozy and joyous time in my home. I'm surrounded by the people I love and most of all I'm filled with the love of my Father because of the gift He has given me, His one and only Son Jesus Christ.

The presents have all been opened and the Christmas Turkey is almost gone, but I am reminded by the snow that it is still the season of My Savior. As I looked through my Christmas pictures I found myself sharing with God and thanking Him for everything. My Parents-in-law, my nieces and nephews, all my brothers and sisters, my mama, my 3 beautiful children, my amazing husband, and most of all the memories of my dad and how he was so much fun on Christmas morning.

Our house was full most of the day, but after dinner it was topped to the brim with 29 people and 2 dogs. I LOVED EVERY MOMENT TOO! It was a blessing to have my house full. It was a blessing to be with my family, we honestly had the most wonderful time. A few family members asked if I was anticipating an empty quite house, but I wasn't. I was having a good time watching the children open gifts, singing to Jesus, preparing the food, and chatting with my family.

This Christmas was one of my favorites, I think Greg and the children would agree. I can't wait for another full house packed with joyful sounds and a warm and cheerful atmosphere!

Dear God,

I am so thankful for all that you have blessed me and my family with. You have given us the greatest gift of all and that is eternal life in heaven with You. Lord, thank you for the birth and death of Your Son. Lord, thank you for the time with our family. God, I ask that you remind us to come together often this winter season. God remind us of our Savior Jesus. Help us to grow closer to Him. Remind us to thank Him for everything He has given us this year.

It is in His name I pray, Amen

Today I wanted to Fall Apart, But God Strengthened Me

My very dear friend Kelly lost her home to a serious chimney fire on Sunday afternoon. I am thanking God that everyone is ok and no one was hurt. Most everything is gone! Kelly and her husband Adam have 6 children. Kelly has thanked God many times since last night that He allowed all of her children to live.

I spent time with Kelly this afternoon, God has given her amazing strength. Adam surprised me with his strength. Though I don't understand why this has happened, I do believe that there is a purpose far beyond what I can imagine.

Today I arrived at Kelly's house around 12:30 pm. I wanted to be there for her, I felt lead to stand beside her. There were a few neighbors helping were they could when I drove up, but what I couldn't help noticing most was Kelly's house. It was overwhelming, my emotions went haywire. I called my husband while I waited for Adam and Kelly to arrive, his voice settled me. I knew he'd be praying for me. I also called my Pastor for encouragement and prayer support as well. I was going to need it, I feared that I wouldn't be able to handle it all. I so desperately wanted to be strong for Kelly. Around 3:00 pm we entered Kel's home, I had never seen anything like it in all my life. I held Kelly's hand, she let go to put her hands over her mouth. We were both taken by the sight. As we walked up the basement stairs there was a distinct smell of charred wood, it became stronger as we reached the top of the stairs. I looked up noticing left behind trails of were flames had been. I then noticed there was hardly a ceiling and almost no roof, I could see the blue sky above me. As we stood quietly I could hear drops of water fall around me, some fell on my jacket sleeve making a ping sound. This just isn't real I thought. I'd been in the house many times before, but this time I couldn't recognize a thing. There was a thick layer of "stuff" on the floor all black and squishy under my feet. Kelly and I stood in what used to be her kitchen. I hugged for a moment not knowing what to say to her.

I will never forget today, nor will I forget the look in Kel's eyes as she rummaged through her home.

Adam, Kelly, and the kiddos are in need, if you feel lead by God to give to this family please let me know. Gift cards to Kohl's, Target, Wal-mart, Market basket, etc. seem most sensible at this time. I plan to continue to post new information as I get it. Most importantly though the family needs your prayer. Prayer for comfort, and prayer for peace.

Dear Father,

I do not understand why you allowed Adam and Kelly's house to burn, but Lord, I want you to know that I trust you with all of my heart. I feel that only good can come from this, good things have already happened. Lord, you are prompting many people to open their closets, drawers, wallets, and hearts. Father, I thank you for the grace you have poured out over Kelly, Adam and the children. Lord, I ask that Kelly call out to you asking YOU for help. I ask that Adam feel your presence and comfort. Lord, protect the children, they must have so many questions. Also God, please give Kelly the words she needs to help them understand all of this. Lord, I ask that you continue to press it upon the hearts of the people to give unselfishly, through gifts, money and love.

In Jesus' name, amen

Hannah's 1st Nutcracker

Friday December 11th I woke up a very excited little girl. Hannah bounced out of bed at 6:30 am. After a toasty tubby, I helped Hannah get all dressed up for her very first Nutcracker!

I'm sure by now most of you know that I am homeschooling Caleb and Hannah, but as homeschoolers we are given the choice whether or not to send our children on public school field trips.

My mother works at Strafford Elementary School as a teachers aid in one of the kindergarten classes. She came to me one afternoon with the permission slip in hand "telling" me that Hannah was going to the Nutcracker with her mom (that's what my kiddo's call my mother) no questions asked. Though I didn't show it, much, I was tickled that mom was especially looking forward to this one-on-one time with Hannah.

Well let me tell you that Hannah skipped out the door ahead of mom at 7:30 am. She was so excited. When Hannah returned home later that afternoon she was glowing. She had so many stories to tell about her bus ride, her new friend Hailey, and the experience of her 1st ballet. She went on to tell me about the lunch she had, the pictures she painted and colored, her time spent on the computer, and her alone time with mom in a real kindergarten classroom. I think my mother was excited too, she even bought Hannah 3 gifts (even when the other children were not allowed). I guess that's the luxury you get when your grandmother works at the school.

I treasure these days, it's so nice to physically see the joy my mother feels from blessing her grandchildren. She does bless them a lot. Not by the material gifts she is always giving them, but by the gift of her love she has freely given to all three of them. My mother is wonderful, she is thoughtful toward my kiddos. My mother has a genuine desire to love and comfort my babies and that tickles me pink!

Dear God,

I just want to thank you for blessing me and my children with such a thoughtful and loving lady. God, my mother hasn't always been the easiest of relationships, but I am thankful for these "highs" you give. Not only have you strengthened my relationship with my mother, but you are now strengthening the relationship between my daughter and her grandmother. Lord, I know one day these memories will be held dear to Hannah. God I ask that you continue to grow this connection between us, I ask that you continue to bless my mother with these type of joyful times she has with Caleb, Hannah, and Isaiah.

In Jesus' name, Amen

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Well I don't know about the rest of you,

but I have been patiently awaiting this beautiful snow fall! It was wonderful to wake up and find a fluffy white snow covering. Greg the children and I tinkered about our morning, but it felt a little more cozy then usual. In fact as I made the morning coffee I found myself singing Christmas carols. I especially love this time of year.

Caleb and I rushed through school! Though I new the winter wonderland wasn't going anywhere, I still felt anxious for him. I may have been just as excited as he was, I wanted to see him trudge through the fun with his little sister and brother. Caleb, Hannah, and Isaiah played for hours.

How can this cold heavy snow bring so much warmth into my home, I welcome the snow!


Dear God,

Thank you for the cozy fuzzy feelings that have welled up inside of my heart today. Thank you for a reminder of home, family, and a season that's filled with wonder and celebration. Lord let it snow, because when you do I am blessed with wide eyed children who are filled with such joy. A joy that only you can bring!

In Jesus' name, amen

TeRrY TrEaSuReS - Only the beginning!

Ok, so... all my friends have a blog and I spend a lot of time reading about their lives. I've been thinking for a while now that I needed to keep track of my life too, an online journal how wonderful!

I'm new at this, please bare with me while I become familiar with my new toy:)