Oh ChRiStMaS tReE!

I'm still having a hard time believing that Christmas is just three weeks away... For some reason I'm still living in November.
This time of year just fills me up with joy and peace, so I welcome December with open arms. I find that most days I'm filled (extra full) with kindness, gentleness, goodness, & faithfulness! These gifts of the Spirit are important, and are most important to me as a mother and wife. Today I asked God to help me focus on these gifts so that I could share them with my family. He has answered that prayer!
Well... We move forward with gladness in our hearts and tackle our first Tradition. Putting up our Christmas Tree makes Christmas time seem real to my family... The glow of the white Christmas lights give a welcomed calming feeling. The roaring flames from our wood stove keep all of our fingers and toes warm. There is an indescribable "coziness" about our house! Before long the snow will fall and we will be well into this new season. But for now, for today, I will Praise His name and I will rejoice, for He has come as child, a beautiful baby boy!

Dear God,
Thank you for this season, a time of family, of warmth, of joy, & Tradition. It is by your Grace Father that I am able to experience these great gifts. Lord, thank you for your son and gift of life.
In Jesus' name, Amen

FaMiLy HeLpInG fAmIlY

What's so special about this time of year? What makes me all cozy inside? Why am I overflowing with emotion?

On November 6th Greg and I were overjoyed when family friends showed up at our home to help us prepare for winter. Greg was overwhelmed by the amount of work he still had ahead of him… It seemed as though he’d never finish cutting down, bucking up, chopping, and stacking our wood that we needed to keep us warm this winter. When church family heard about Greg’s stress they jumped into action, formed a brigade, and put their hands to work! Greg and I are forever grateful for the hands that helped make this winters chore a success. Those involved were: Jon & Leah Roth and their boys, Josh & Amy Goodwin and their boys, Greg & Mollie Gandy and their son Jacob, Chris & Rachel Lounsbury and their daughter Maddy, Carroll Stevens and his son Joe, Bill Palmer, Mike, Keith Howard and his boys, myself, my husband, and our kiddos Caleb & Hannah! Those who worked inside and cooked while they watched over many babies were: My Mother Darlene, My Nana Ruth, and Sissy (My sister Dienne Howard)! A giant thank you to all of you from The Terry’s! This was indeed a huge blessing and a time of Thanksgiving for Greg and me!

Dear God,
Thank you for showing me that nothing is impossible with you. Thank you for delivering such service that only glorifies you. Thank you for teaching each of us that there are many things to be grateful for this time of year. Lord, you continually answer my prayers and continue to give to me and my family just what we need. It is by your grace that we thrive, it is our desire to worship you each day. I am overflowing with Thanksgiving, I am struck with new hope and great joy. Lord, you provide comfort and warmth. It is through your love that we can then love one another! Thank you Father!

In Jesus' name, Amen

On YoUr MaRk GeT sEt Go

September was an amazing yet tiring month. Everything starts up again in September and when it does it sometimes hits me hard. Just before Labor Day the children and I began their homeschool curriculum... The first week was exciting and of course new. The first week was a breeze in my opinion. Now we're well into our second month of school, but have found it can be exhausting some days. Don't get me wrong, homeschool is going very well, I love it. The children are learning a lot already. It's just that energy is low. We are jumping back into a very busy year and it's definitely going to take some time getting used to it again. However, I am so in love with teaching my children here at home. honestly, I can't imagine sending them off to school. I have already seen the many blessing that come with homeschool!

My family and I are involved in many activities, studies, & ministries all of which have begun their new fiscal year. Though this time is exciting it is also draining. It will take time to find a grove again and feel "normal" about our busy days. Greg's primary ministry is AWANA clubs. He finds great joy in training up our youth. He enjoys leading and is getting really good at it too. Greg is also involved in small group, service, community outreach, and Sunday School. My primary ministry is MOPS. MOPS has been close to my heart for years. This year I play a smaller role on the Leadership Team, but enjoy serving just the same if not more. I'm also involved in teaching, worship, small group, bible study, service, and outreach. Caleb, Hannah, and Isaiah are involved in Sunday School, children's church, AWANA, MOPS, bible study, service, and outreach. I think they all enjoy AWANA most. Not because their Daddy is the boss, but because God is working on them the most here. All three are learning and retaining His word. Not only are they learning and retaining, but they are living out His word daily. God also continually shows me how special Caleb, Hannah, and Isaiah are! This may seem like to much, but honestly it feels right. I know soon we will find our grove amongst all these duty's and grow in leadership, faith, and our relationship with Jesus Christ. I also know in time God will allow for all of us to see the fruits of our labor and the overflowing blessings that comes from our obedience and perseverance. I wouldn't have it any other way! I'm on my mark, I'm set, here I go...

Dear God,
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for using me in these many ways. Thank you for teaching me to persevere, obey, and grow closer toward your son Jesus. God, thank you for those I knowingly have touched and those only you know I have touched. God, thank you for these many blessings of service and witness. You are my motivation! It is my desire not to be prideful, it is my desire to give all credit to You and hand You all the Glory. Lord, I love You, help me bring your children home if that be Your will!

In Jesus' name, Amen

AwAkEnEd

It's hard to believe that our summer is winding down and it's time to think about the year ahead. I'm happy to say that Caleb passed his evaluation with flying colors! He has officially entered the 4Th grade! Though we ended his homeschool program in May it was just last week that we handed his portfolio to Gina to be evaluated. I couldn't be more proud of Caleb's work this year and I couldn't be more proud with his perseverance through Arithmetic.

I've realized that this year I will not be sending one notification of home education, but I'll send two notifications this year. I'm in disbelief that Hannah has graduated to the 1ST grade... This is another mile stone for her and I am eager to teach her. It has been fulfilling to watch her learn, it has been fulfilling to hear her read. It's rewarding as a her mother, because it was I who taught her!

This summer has been spectacular! Honestly, I can't remember a better summer. So much as happened and so much was gained. We've spent long days at the beach. Afternoons with our friends. Nights with family. We've done a lot of traveling. We've added to our household and cleared out a some of the clutter. This summer I have felt many emotions. Not only has it been wonderful it has also been a wonderful disaster at times. I've been scared, I've been angry, I've shown compassion and been uncompassionate. I've poured my heart out and I've denied my heart. I've cried out loud and I've laughed out loud. It would be fair to ask. "Has God touched you this summer?" My answer would be, YES!

To often I've started my day with out Him this summer, to often I've out right ignored Him during the day. Still, He was there and forced me to see where I was going wrong. He gentle held me when I fell over and over again. He forgave me before I asked Him to. Jesus wrapped his strong loving arms around me and promised me that everything would be OK. Even as I sit here writing this entry He is reveiling my mistakes. I am very grateful, I'm overwhelmed, I'm humbled but lifted. When I allow Him to draw near to me I can hear Him and I feel rested, I feel the weight lifted from my shoulders. When I open His word I'm consumed and convicted. When I hand Him my heart (for real) I'm no longer asking for more, I'm no longer unsatisfied. He has paid it all and all to Him I owe.

Today marks a new day, today will be my attempt to surrender all. I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to him, and he answered my prayer.
Psalm 120:1 NLT God help me!

What a year this will be, what a mess it will be also. But, I know, with God all things are possible and He will always be my shield. My heart is full, my hands are empty and I'm ready to serve my Father.

Dear God, thank you for these lessons, thank you for having patience with me. Help me to become the wife you designed me to be. God, don't let me get in my own way. Help me to achieve what it is to be a mother consumed by you. Help me to learn, lead, and follow only You. This year will bring new adventure, new mistakes, and new discovery... And it will all be by Your grace and love for me. Awaken me!

I pray all these things in Jesus' name, Amen.

Oh CaNaDa!

Greg had work in Canada. We decided to pack up a backpack for each of the children and make it a family 'vacation'. Greg mapped out a different route then what he would typically map out. He avoided major high ways and tacked on a few more miles and took us through the countryside. It was beautiful, the farm land was lush and the old farm houses and fields were gorgeous. I never realized how beautiful NY farm land really is. VT was stunning, the fresh air was exuberant.

We stopped in Rochester NY and stayed one night. The following day we drove two more hours to our first destination, Niagara Falls! Crossing the border was a breeze. It only took a few minutes to hand over our passports, have them handed back to us and they drive through the gate. I had originally anticipated a longer stop. Once we were across the children cheered with joy, "We're in Canada!"

I had seen the Falls many years ago when I was in the 8Th grade. Our class drove to Canada for our 8Th grade class trip... I don't think I appreciated it then the way I do now. Beautiful is the word that comes to mind, but really it isn't suitable. Niagara Falls is an amazing creation made by the hands of God. I enjoyed viewing the Falls, I enjoyed watching my children discover and learn.

After a day at the Falls we packed up and drove two more hours to Toronto, Canada. I didn't know that city was as large as it was, I didn't know that it would be as pretty as it was either. We checked into our hotel, unpacked and settled in for the night. After all Isaiah needed the rest because earlier in the day he came down with a sudden fever. By the time I tucked him in for the night his fever had gone up to 103 degrees. I had hoped that he wouldn't catch the fever going around, but he did and so did Caleb. The fever left as quickly as it came and by the 2ND day of having the fever Isaiah and Caleb felt well again.

Greg was working each day so it really wasn't much of a vacation for him. While he was away during the day the kids and I went off exploring. We found cute shops and yummy smelling restaurants. We stumbled across a market and bought fresh fruit and homemade chicken. Our last night in Toronto we took an electric car (I think that's what they are called) into China Town. It was similar to the China Town in Boston but a lot larger. We stopped at a restaurant that had smoked duck hanging in the window. Hannah was hesitant to eat there, but as soon as we opened the door the smell of duck and whatever else that was cooking kitchen captivated us. Just let me say that my dining experience at King Noodle was wonderful and very very tasty.

The following morning we woke up early, packed up the van and headed for home. Our 10hour drive turned into 12-13 hours. The kids needed many potty breaks. It was an uneventful trip home but, a wonderful family 'vacation' in all...

Dear God,
Thank you for the opportunity to travel as a family and thank you for the opportunity to discover and explore your creation. God, thank you for the family time and thank you for the flexibility Greg has with his job. I feel blessed to be able and go on these business trips with him and the children. God, you know how I dislike being away from Greg for long periods of time. Thank you for blessing us with this time together rather then us being apart. I am very grateful for all of these blessings! I love you!

In Jesus' name, Amen

My NaNa

Some of you might know that my Poppop passed away last month. It was a hard time for all of us. I feel peace knowing that he is going to live forever in heaven with our Savior Jesus. I feel comfort because I know that I will see him again someday. A few days before my Poppop died he called my mom. Poppop wanted to be sure that Nana would be fine and taken care of. Well, she will be, because my Nana is here in our home! Nana has moved in with my mom downstairs and as far as I know she plans to stay here for good! However, I did hear her mention that she may become a 'snowbird'. A snowbird is what Nana calls the older folks who spend their winters in Florida where it is warmer of course. I don't mind the idea of her being a 'snowbird' because I know she will always "fly North" for the summer. If you didn't notice, I am overjoyed about this; God has blessed me by allowing my Nana to live here with us. My children are blessed too. Oh, how happy they are, all three of them are creating a wonderful, strong, and close relationship with their Nana. I love it when Isaiah runs up to her and plants a smacker square on her lips. I know she loves it too! I couldn't be happier that my kiddos will have the privelage to grow up with their grandmother and now their great grandmother too. You know, it's not often that children are blessed in this way! Nana is adjusting well to her new life, though some days it's jam-packed full and busy-bouncy. I sence that she loves the adventure anyway and I’m certain that she loves the attention she is receiving from the little ones. To be honest, I can't get enough of 'Nana's Hugs', and she makes me feel like a little girl again when she takes me by my cheeks and kisses my face! I wouldn't traid those kisses for anything! I think it would be fair to say that we all feel a little fuller now that Nana has come to live with us!

Dear God,
Thank you for relieving my Poppop of all the years he felt pain. And thank you for taking all his worries away. Thank you for placing my Nana back in my life. God, thank you for loving me so much. God, thank you for blessing me and my family each and every day. You are an amazing God. You make all sadness go away and You replace it will complete joy!!

In Jesus' name, Amen

And So... It was a Great Easter Day!

Baby Chick's, Baby Ashlynn!

A lot of new stuff going on in the Terry household. Greg sent me to AGWAY again this year... I came home with 16 new baby chick's 4 different breeds of chick's to be exact. Caleb, Hannah, and Isaiah just love these little fluff balls! I really like them myself, I know Greg enjoys watching them grow into adult hens. He can't wait to see how the new breeds look and act, nor can he wait to see what types of eggs we get. neither can I! Caleb has proved to be quite the responsible young boy... He voluntarily checks on the chick's and gives them fresh water and food when needed. Hannah has been a super helper when Greg or I change the bedding in their warming box. Isaiah, well, he thinks they are so sweet. He is very sweet with them and enjoys holding them!

Now onto bigger and better news. I now am privileged with being caretaker to the newest member of the Towle family. Baby Ashlynn has been a true and vibrant blessing to me and my household. I feel blessed to be able to help out my little brother James, it is my joy to care for his little princess while he is away at work. Caleb just adores baby Ashlynn, he thinks she is beautiful, but "very loud" at times! Hannah has been a miniature mommy to Ashlynn, she loves caring for her so much that I have had to punish her for her disobedience. I've caught her touching, or picking up the baby with out having permission to do so. Hannah too adores Ashlynn and "loves her with all her heart"! Isaiah is very inquisitive and often wants to know why I do the things I do. For instance, Isaiah asked me why I was 'cracking' Ashlynn's back. I explained to him that I was only 'patting' her back to release gas bubbles. Now Isaiah reminds me that she may only be crying because she probably has a gas bubble! Isaiah also likes to 'poke' Ashlynn, he too has been punished for excess 'poking'. Really though, it's been sweet to watch him interact with her. Ashlynn lights up when her cousin's are near. Greg has adjusted well to having an infant in our house again. Though this time it's not so much his job as much as it is mine to care for the baby. Greg still helps out when he feels he can and has even made a bottle or two for me. It's nice to hear him pray during grace about what a blessing to has been to have a baby in the house again. I've said to Greg that caring for Ashlynn will either cure my itch to have another baby or worsen it!

Baby Ashlynn has been a joy to care for. Honestly it's like riding a bike, you just don't forget how. I will admit thought that I completely took for granted the ability to breast feed. I now understand what a blessing that was for me when my three were infants. Bottle feeding has been a bit of a challenge. What formula to use, and nipples, and sizes, well that's a whole other story. But thanks to friends and trial and error I think I have found a suitable match. Now Ashlynn seems to be handling feeds much better!

Dear God,
First I'd like to thank you for allowing me to care for my little brother's baby girl. I'd like to thank you for creating her and putting her in our lives. Lord, thank you for the beauty she brings and the love she freely gives. Lord, I ask that you help me continue on this path I feel you have called me to for now. Lord, I ask that you continue to tighten the bond between James and me. I also ask that you help me find a balance between my duties of being a mommy, wife, homemaker, and now nanny to baby Ashlynn. Lord, you have amazed me by your answer to my prayers and the prayers of those I know who are praying for this little angel, her mommy, and daddy! Again, with all of my heart, thank you God.

In Jesus' name, Amen

I Never Thought I'd See The Day

On Friday, February 19, at approximately 5:30pm a loud hurt scream came from the living room. Caleb, Tanner, and Isaiah were playing swords with one another. Isaiah spun around on his right foot with his sword in hand and twisted it just so. I never thought I'd see the day when one of my children would end up with a broken bone.

Friday night I watched Isaiah carefully, observing how he handled walking on his foot. He was so pitiful... watching him gimp around was so sweet, but I knew he wasn't putting on a show, he was truly hurting. He woke up many times through the night. I had made a decision through the night that I would call the pediatrician first thing Saturday morning.

Isaiah was hurting more by Saturday morning. My decision stood firm, he needed to have his foot looked at. The pediatrician said that his foot was most likely broken rather than sprained. Greg and I were shocked, I honestly thought it was a bad twist. We brought Isaiah home and kept him off his foot as much as we could and kept him comfortable with ibuprofen.

First thing Monday morning Greg and I called the orthopedics office and scheduled him to be seen. The doctor confirmed my worst fear, Isaiah's foot was broken. Considering what Isaiah went through on Saturday at the pediatricians office I think he did very well at the orthopedics office. He cried just a little when he first caught sight of the examining table. And he cried for the first x-ray until he realized that no one was going to hurt him here. I am so proud of my little guy and I am so thankful that God gave me the strength to get through the first stage of a broken bone. Thank you to everyone who faithfully prayed for Isaiah and his anxiety from the doctors visits. God was indeed there and with us every step of the way.

Dear God,
Thank you for caring for Isaiah and comforting him when he was scared. Thank you for giving me the strength that I needed in my desperate hour. God, thank you for helping me understand that accidents happen and bones may break. Thank you for showing me that you are right there when I need you most. Lord, I ask that Isaiah's foot heal and return to its perfect form. I ask that he no longer have discomfort or irritation due to being in a cast. God, you are an awesome God!!!

In Jesus' name, Amen

Silly Kids

I just wanted to take a quick moment and share my silly kids with you. Caleb and Isaiah keep me in stitches, and when Hannah gets going I find myself surprised at how humorous she truly is. I just love this about them and I love how they can keep Greg and I giggling. Greg and I may collect ourselves for a moment look at each other and then just get laughing again. My children are not only supper funny, but also super loving and can be super serious when time comes to be super serious.

I love my little ones, I love there kind nature and their giving hearts, and yes, I love.. love.. love.. the laughter they bring into my home.

Dear God,
I want to thank you today for my three special children, I want to thank you for choosing me to be their mommy. God, I love them so much, thank you!

In Jesus' name, Amen

Remembering Lindsay Bear Through NSTAR's Walk for Children's Hospital Boston

Children's Hospital Boston - NSTAR's Walk for Children's Hospital Boston 10 - 's Page

Will you follow the link above and read why I am walking?

"Lindsay Bear" Oh How I Love Her & Miss Her. Remembering Her Today During Congenital Heart Defect Week

LINDSAY GROEN 6/14/06-5/16/08 ERIC VANDAM

On June 14, 2006 in Luverne, Minnesota a little pink baby girl entered the world. She was 7lbs 5oz and 21in long. We were so surprised to have a little girl. Lindsay was a very happy baby full of smiles and rolls. She loved to eat and soon got the name “Lindsay Bear”. Lindsay loved life and loved to play. She loved playing with her big brother Tanner, her dog Kaye, her toys, and loved being outside. Her smile lit up the room and her “bear” hugs were the best. Lindsay was a very healthy little girl. At her 18 month check up her doctor heard a heart murmur. She then went to the cardiologist and was diagnosed with severe mitral valve prolapse. She never showed any symptoms of having a heart problem. Lindsay had open heart surgery at Children’s Hospital Boston April 7, 2008 to repair her mitral valve. Surgery went well and she was doing good. On April 15, 2008 she went into cardiac arrest caused by underlying heart issues. She was put on a life support unit called ECMO. On April 28, 2008 she had bypass surgery. After being on ECMO 33 days, On May 16, 2008 Jesus healed her heart and took her to paradise. Lindsay Bear is missed by all who knew and loved her. Not a day goes by that we do not think of her and miss her. We look forward to the day when we will be reunited with her in eternity. Until then we share her story to raise CHD awareness and to bring others to know Christ is their Savior.

Dear God,
Though I didn't know Lindsay well before she entered heaven to be with you, I feel that today I've known her from the first day she was born. Through Laura, Jon, Tanner, & Case I've come to love Lindsay with all my heart. Thank you for that. God, she is an amazing little girl and I long to hug her. I am thankful for the time I was able to spend with Lindsay and most thankful for the morning I rocked her to sleep in the nursery at DBC... God, I didn't even know Laura and Jon then, but I know that I enjoyed my cuddle time with Lindsay that morning. I even remember the cute jean skirt she was wearing:) God, thank you for giving me time with Lindsay and thank you for the time I have today with her big brother Tanner and her baby brother Case. I love them so much and feel blessed when I spend time with them. God, thank you for Laura and the friend she is to me. God, thank you for Jon and his big bear hugs. God, I can't wait to see Lindsay again!

In Jesus' name, Amen

Home, Where My Heart Belongs!

Some of you may know that Greg and I just returned last Friday from a weeks vacation in Costa Rica. Although it was lovely, beautiful, warm, and eye opening; I would continually find myself saying. "Oh how the children would love this." At times I'd catch myself thinking. "If the children were here, I would stay in this country forever." Honestly A lot of the time I knew I was missing something, actually three somethings, my kiddos. There were no "hey mommy, can I?" questions being thrown around. There was no one tugging on my arm, or no one pulling of my clothing. Things were strangely quiet and maybe a tid bit boring in between our activities.

Greg and I explored a new country and we learned many new things about the people who live and work there. It was a blessing each day to wake up to a new day filled with new discoveries. but all along I wanted so badly for my children to experience it all with us.

The time arrived to board the plan and return home. It was sad, I didn't want to return to cold New Hampshire. Our trip was long and our drive from Boston felt like an eternity. I opened the door to my home and dropped everything. I briskly walked upstairs, I reached out and stirred each of my children awake. It was almost 2:00am and Caleb just couldn't bring himself to get up, I kissed him and hugged him for a while. Isaiah and Hannah were snug in my bed with Auntie Jessica. I woke them both by hugging them and kissing them. we sat for awhile just hugging and whispering a little. It was wonderful to have my babies back in my arms.

This trip to Costa Rica changed me in ways I never expected. God reignited my passion for His mission. He also showed me that my home can be anywhere and in any country. He helped me to see that as long as I have my family with me, beside me, then I am home. He reminded me that I belong to Him and He has a plan for me. Where ever He places me will be my home because that is right where my heart belongs, with Him and for Him only.

Dear God,

Thank you for reopening my eyes to your plan for my life and my family. Thank you for reigniting the fire you set in my heart. Thank you for showing me beautiful country and showing me where my heart belongs. Lord, you are amazing and I am so thankful that you have plans for me and my family. I look forward to the day you send me out!

In Jesus' name, Amen

Signs, Signs, Everywhere are Signs

If you were to walk through my home you would see signs displayed in various rooms. I love that my children post signs that express their creative nature. Often Greg and I will receive a sealed envelope with a note carfully placed inside. Or we may even receive a delivery by one child that has been passed off to us by the other child.

This morning I was feeling on edge, annoyed with things, and tired. I let these feelings get the best of me when I barked at Caleb and Hannah about a messy table. I expressed inappropriately my displeasure with them for making such a mess, especially after I spent time the night before cleaning up a previous mess that they had created.

I shrugged this off and went about my chores, I hadn't even noticed that the house and my children had become strangely quit for fear of upsetting me again. As I sorted through stacks of paper on the counter Hannah nudged my arm. I turned to her, she delivered one of those notes I spoke of.

I gulped as I opened the note, I had a feeling it wouldn't be one of the cute ones I was used to getting. I was right. Caleb had Hannah deliver a letter of apology. My shoulders sank and I felt convicted once again by my wise son. "Why was he apologizing to me?" I asked myself when I was the one who should be writing the note to him. Oh how humbling it is to sit before my two young children and then ask them for their forgiveness. Easily they both said yes and we hugged one another and made amends. It's uplifting and joyful to let go of anger and allow forgiveness to fall in it's place.

Dear God,

Thank you for my creative natured children. Thank you for the messes they leave all over the house. Thank you for the 'signs' you leave that are glowing with a neon lights. Lord, thank you for my big piece of humble pie this morning. And thank you for granting me and my children the ability to forgive, truly forgive. Lord, will you forgive me for falling short again? I dislike myself when I speak to strongly to my children. Father, help me to remember your grace, help me to pass this grace onto my children.

In Jesus' name, Amen

Missed More Now Then Ever

I've been thinking about my very best friend a lot lately.

There are 3 framed pictures above me stove in my kitchen, one of Jill and her family, one of Laura and her family, and this one of Joy's family with my family. This picture was taken a few weeks before the Eisner's move to Guatemala. I look at Joy and her family each time I'm at the stove preparing food, often I look up and smile remembering that afternoon. Sometimes I look up and just about cry, and other times I do cry and make sure that no one sees me doing so.

For some reason I miss Joy and her family now more then ever. Maybe it's because I have a 6 year old daughter who desperately wants to hug her "bestest friend". Or you know, it could be, that Joy has been gone for 6 months now. Hmmm... Before Joy moved I would see her probably 2 times a week if not more. Although Skype is amazing, it's not always easy to get us all to sit down for a chat. It almost seems easier to call Joy and talk with her on the phone. None the less I miss seeing her, I miss talking with her, I miss hugging her, and I miss watching our children play together.

This past Sunday Greg and I spent the whole day with our good friends Jon and Laura, we stayed late and played Scategories and laughed a lot, we had so much fun. This reminded me of the late nights at Joy's house playing Settlers of Catan while our children fell asleep in the other room. They were late nights that I will never regret and ache for today.

I long to be near Joy, I pray for a future reunion, I want my best friend back.

Dear God,

First I'd like to thank you for Joy, for bringing us together in 2005, and for creating such a connection between us. God, I miss her terribly and at times become sad, very sad. I want nothing more then to fly to Guatemala with my family and be reunited again. I want nothing more then to wrap my arms around her. God, I miss Ken and the girls too. I know that you know all the things of my heart, and if it be in your will to make these things happen you know how happy I'd be. Thank you for the ability to still talk with Joy and see her. I'm grateful for the technology of today. God, don't let me forget the friend I have in Joy, don't let me forget the bond you have made. Please in some way let her know how much I care for her, let her know how much I love her.

In Jesus' name, Amen

Snow and Syrup Make a Sweet Treat to Eat

There's a TON of snow out there... So why not eat it!

I slightly remember doing this once as a small child. I thought it would thrill the children to eat fresh fallen snow with yummy pure maple syrup drizzled all over it, and I was right.

Caleb and Hannah spent a good portion of the later afternoon outside in the new snow, while Isaiah and I spent time resting on the couch. Isaiah has been sick since 5:00pm yesterday and it was a super long night with him so I've been pretty tired today. Thank the Lord though that he's feeling better now and keeping food and drink in his belly now.


When the big kids came in they naturally wanted a snack. I didn't tell them what their snack would be, instead I asked them to sit and wait! They watched me as I gathered the things I needed. They began to make guesses to what they thought the snack would be. Caleb flipped when he saw me open up the dinning room window and then scoop clean snow into a small bowl. "What?" "Are we really going to eat snow for a snack?" he questioned. All three kiddos waited patiently with anticipation as I drizzled each snow filled bowl with a generous amount of pure maple syrup. It was a fun sweet treat, even Greg and I enjoyed a bowl of snow and syrup!

Dear God, Thank you for these fun times of discovery... Thank you for the new snow that is super fun!Lord, I love the way my children become excited about the small things that we do as a family. I pray tonight that You will continue to allow our family to have fun together!

In Jesus' name, Amen

Family Friends!

Jon and Laura are wonderful friends. I've become very close to Laura over the last year. I enjoy our time together immensely and I enjoy being with her family. Our families truly complement one another. Greg and Jon have found commonalities and taken a great liking to each other. It's fun to watch them behave like young boys, something they both do all too well together! Greg and Jon always seem to have a good time whether it is during a game of Wii, shooting off a few rounds, pulling down a deck, loading a trailer with fire wood, or an afternoon in Boston. I think they just like hanging together no matter what the task or activity.

Caleb, Hannah, and Isaiah really like playing with Tanner. They especially like spending time at Tanner's house. Caleb is like a big brother to Tanner, it's nice to see that Tanner looks up to him. Hannah likes to play with Tanner too, she says he's fun. She also loves baby Case a lot. Isaiah likes Tanner so much that he invited him to his costume party this year. I like how Isaiah looks up to Tanner; I also like how Isaiah plays so nicely with Case. I love it that my kiddos love Jon and Laura and their boys.

This past Monday Greg and I had the privilege of caring for Tanner and Case. It was a blessing for me to have baby Case in my home. I know that it was fun for my children to have a playmate over for the evening. And I believe Tanner had just as much fun. It took Case a little bit to warm up to me. I've held onto him for Laura at church on occasion, but only for a short amount of time. Case had never been with me for a long amount of time before. If ever he were to cry when holding him, I'd always been able to hand him off to his mommy. Case did well considering and before I knew it he was so comfortable with me that he wouldn’t let me put him down, I didn't mind though, I loved every moment. It was comforting to have a baby in my home again and even more comforting to cradle Case to sleep as he drank his bottle. I hadn't realized how much I'd missed snuggling with a seven month old infant.

I love spending time with Laura; we have both agreed that our time spent together just hasn't been as much as we'd like it to be. Laura's a great listener; she's a loving wife, a caring mother, and a faithful friend. She's very thoughtful and understanding. Laura and I have found that we have more in common then we had originally thought. We both love cooking for our children and our husbands. We are both extremely family oriented and love large family gatherings. We both love Jesus and have a longing desire to follow His will for our life, our middle children are girls, and we both love to give to others through time, money and gifts. Laura's fun and easy to talk to. She the kind of gal you can spend hours with. And that's just what I like to do, spend hours with her; chatting and laughing. I look forward to a steadily growing friendship with Laura that will last for years. I look forward to many more outings and gatherings with her and her family.

Dear God,
Thank you for Laura and her family. I so enjoy all of them and I enjoy the time we have had as close friends. God, thank you for allowing our husbands to get along. Thank you that you have given them a new friendship in one another. I love Laura, and I love her family. I anticipate our next gathering. God, I am grateful for the bond that we all have. I'm grateful for new friends, laughter, and hospitality. Lord, please allow our families to grow closer as the years pass!

In Jesus' name, Amen

Jessica

My children just adore their Auntie Jessica. In fact when Jessica and I are together my children would rather go to her with their concerns rather than come to me. I could take this one of two ways; become jealous or be truly thankful. I choose to be thankful!

I'm very thankful that my kiddos love Jessica with all their heart. I'm thankful that she equally loves them in return. Jessica is special, she has a natural ability to become the "Pied Piper" when in a room full of small children. She has a knack with my children and they have a built in admiration for her.

When Caleb was born, Jessica was 14 years old, but on occasion when Dienne wasn't available I'd call on Jessica when I needed a sitter. Jessica quickly proved to be a wonderful caretaker and a super loving aunt. I've called on Jessica ever since. When Hannah was born I had no question that Jessica could handle Caleb at home for 3 days. As Hannah grew older my relationship with Jessica grew stronger, I began to see a loving, caring, responsible, and mature young woman. Jessica continues to live up to these qualities with an added few. When Greg and I bought my childhood home Jessica lived with us. It was then that I realized how much I loved her and how much she and I had in common. Jessica and I became fast friends, we'd talk a lot, watch movies together, spend evenings out, or stay in and play games with Greg and JT. Jessica would help out around the house, she'd help with meals, she'd even care for the children with out me asking. When I became pregnant with Isaiah Jessica stepped it up a notch and helped me a lot during my first trimester, she knew I wasn't feeling well and jumped right in if she saw there was a need. There were times I thought she had done too much and times I thought I'd asked her for too much. But Jessica would never complain, she would keep on keeping on and surprise me along the way. When the morning came for Isaiah to come into this world I wanted nothing more then my baby sister at my side with Greg and my mom. Greg and I dropped Caleb and Hannah off at Dienne's house and planned to meet my mother and Jessica at the hospital. Well, Isaiah being the strong willed child that he is wasn't waiting for anyone. Jessica missed his birth by minutes. It didn't seem to matter that Jessica didn't witness Isaiah's birth, from the moment she met him he pulled at her heart strings. The two of them have a special connection, an unbreakable closeness.

Jessica moved out almost a year ago. It took me a long time to get used to not having her here with us. I miss her terribly, sometimes I wish she would move back in. Just like the children I look forward to Saturday's. It's then that we get to see Jessica and spend time with her. Jessica has been a blessing to my family. Jessica will forever hold her own special spot in my heart and in the hearts of my children.

I LOVE YOU BABY SISTER!

Dear God,

You have blessed me and my family with the gift of Jessica. I am grateful for all that Jessica does for me and my kiddos. God, Caleb, Hannah, and Isaiah love Jessica so much and I love that they ask for her on Monday when Saturday is still many days away. God, I love the special connection between Jessica and Isaiah. I love the relationship that I have with her, I look forward to seeing her life begin and I look forward to the day that she can share her family with me. You have given me the perfect gift in my baby sister. I am thankful for the wonderful, understand, compassionate, and especially giving friend you have given me in Jessica!

In Jesus' name, Amen

Mommy & Monster Time!

Tuesday night is AWANA clubs night, that means that Greg, Caleb, & Hannah travel to DBC while Isaiah and I stay home and have our "mommy & monster time" together. Sometimes we read, sometimes we watch movies, other times we play, and other times we simply chat. Oh can my little monster chat too. It's funny really, Isaiah is a different creature when he isn't with his big bubba and big sissy. I've noticed that he likes to discuss things and think about things and really try and understand things when he is on his own. It's almost like he doesn't have his translators with him, so he has to figure it all out for himself. I know that he likes this one-on-one connection. I love our conversations, I love the many, many, many questions too!

I jokingly call Isaiah my "little monster", and if you know Isaiah you can only imagine what I mean by that. Let's just say that Isaiah is my "mischief maker", he's my "energy maker", and most certainly my "here comes trouble" maker! Honestly though Isaiah melts my heart. he is so endearing and very thoughtful. Isaiah is charming and super funny. Isaiah is a BIG bundle of love and affection!

Tonight we had fun eating candy, watching a movie, and goofing around with my camera. Isaiah loves taking pictures, in fact I have a whole album of pictures Isaiah took on Christmas day! His photography technique is very cute and his photo's make me smile. He lights up when he views his pictures and oh my is he proud of his collection. Most times I can't set the digital on play back fast enough.

I like Tuesday nights with my little monster, we have good times and good talks too. I think he enjoys our time together just as much as I do. I only pray that this lasts for a little while. Besides, before I know it Isaiah will be old enough to join AWANA clubs with his siblings.

Dear God,

I just want to thank you for this special "mommy & monster" time I am able to have with Isaiah. He is such a joy and such a blessing! I enjoy him so much, he is the sweetest, funniest, loudest, silliest, most impossible little boy I know, and I love him all the more because of it. God, thank you for allowing me to take care of Isaiah, and more importantly thank you for allowing me to fall in love with my special boy. Isaiah is amazing and clever and outspoken and awfully adorable. I just melt when he hugs up on me and gives me kisses all over my face. God, I even thank you for the difficult times with Isaiah. I ask that we're able to continue this steady growth in our relationship. I ask that you allow us to continue having this cute giggly fun together. Please allow me to show him daily that he is my special boy and that he is loved by his mommy so much. God, tonight I had fun with him and tonight I grew closer to him. Thank you so much for my precious little monster!

In Jesus' name, Amen

Ringing in the New Year with a Fresh Start & More Snow!

Caleb, Hannah, and Isaiah had fun outside in the new fresh snow today. I feel good about this winter, I'm looking forward to snowball fights, sledding, and maybe even some snowmobiling. I'm also looking forward to my fresh start. I love all this white stuff, though I know some of you may think I'm crazy. There's just something about a cold snowy day outside with the promise of a hot cup of coffee and a roaring fire waiting for me inside. I do look forward to more snow. I love the delight on my kiddos faces when they wake to new fallen snow. I find myself smiling when I hear "look at all the snow outside mommy!"

What a year we have had! If you received Greg's Christmas letter then you read about how busy we were last year. This year will be just as busy but we plan to fill our days with more of the "stuff" we know God wants from us. I'm not proud of everything I did in the last year, and I'm not proud of what I didn't do that I know God was asking me to do this last year. My only comfort is knowing that God's mercies are new every morning. It is only because of His grace and mercy that I can ask Him to forgive me at all.

During a home group study the question was asked, "what gift will you give Jesus this Christmas?" Well, fairly quickly it came to me that I would invite Jesus into each and every new day. I'd pray in the morning before my head left the pillow, asking God to direct my day. I'd allowing Him to spend the day with me. I'd also pray to Him through out the day, and I would involve Him in all my daily activities. Sadly I've already failed in handing over this gift to Him. I've started most days on my own, I haven't been asking Him to spend the day with me at all. And I definitely haven't been praying during my day asking for His guidance. I haven't allowed God to be involved in my day and I'm upset with myself because of it.

But again Jesus tells me that God's mercies are new every morning, and today, the 2nd of January I gave my day to God. He revealed to me my short comings and I was able to confess all of them to Him which in turn allowed me to have a peaceful, restful, and wonderful day with my family. I prayed to Him today and He answered my prayers I have been emptied of my guilt. I won't lie it's not going to be easy to remember to invite God into my heart and home each day. But with a note card posted on my night stand that reads, "Carrie, invite God into your heart and home today and spend the day with Him!" how can I go wrong... right!

What does your fresh start look like for this coming year? Will it be as white as the new fallen snow outside?

Dear God,

Thank you that your mercies are new every morning. Thank you for being patient with me. God, I ask that you show me when I've done wrong, I ask that you remind me when I have forgotten you! Thank you for this winter season, and thank you for the snow. God, I also ask that each day be filled with your love and comfort. Father, I love you and I never want to hurt you by disobeying you. Again Father, I am amazed by the overflowing forgiveness that you give me each and every day.

In Jesus' name I pray, Amen