a FaMiLy ThAt RuNs ToGeThEr...

On March 1st I made a decision to get healthy, get fit, and get slimmer!

In February I started by making my meal portions smaller. It took me some time to make my stomach understand that it didn't really need all the food I was packing into it. Now I've actually shrunk my stomach and have a better understanding of how much I honestly need at each meal. Then I began to educate myself on the types of food I should be purchasing and bringing into our house. The kids struggled with this more than me, especially when they saw regular snack items leaving the cupboards for good. The only thing I struggled with and still am struggling with is the new grocery budget! Once I learned about good food I then incorporated exercise into my week. I began on the indoor bike making sure I gradually pushed myself with each workout. I started physically feeling better and found that I had more energy throughout the day. When the scale presented a new (lower) weight number I was thrilled by my efforts! I was becoming healthy and truly desired a new life style for me and my family. Each week the scale bounced back a new number showing me that I can do what I set out to do. As I felt fit, I felt a stronger desire to run again. Years ago when I was a teen girl I ran a lot. Soccer was my sport of choice and I played hard in my position as a half back. This position required a great deal of running and I become really good at getting up and down that field with ease and having the endurance to keep a steady pace the entire game. I loved it! So, given my young girl ability this mama of three in her 30's was up for the challenge. I was ready to run, so... I started running. I've concurred 2 miles so far using a simple pattern of walking to one telephone poll and then running to the next one. It feels great and even better when I push myself and run two polls! Now it’s become a family affair. Greg and I gather our three children, two dogs, and head out! It's an enjoyable time with my family, it's a challenge for all of us, and it feels GREAT! Last week Greg and I went out on our own early in the morning with the 2 dogs. I really push myself and felt very good about it too. The next day however, I felt great discomfort in my shins. This became worse; I realized then that I had shin splints, ouch! I've been taking it easy staying home and using the indoor bike again, though I'd rather be outside running. Soon, God willing, I'll be back out there!

This is just the beginning; I have many more pounds to go and many more pairs of shoes to go through. I'm ready, more ready and determined now than I've ever been. It's a life style change, a new beginning, a fresh start, and will be a true success story for me and the health of my growing family!

Dear God,
Thank you for shinning your light on the path of health. I'm sure that this has been your desire for me all along. God, you have given me a new energy, a new way to see the beauty you've created in me, and I love it. You have placed in me the determination to become healthy and run alongside my husband and children. Now, I look forward to summer days playing outside with my children, taking long bike rides, and eating with a purpose. Father, you have loved me since the day you built me in my mother’s whom, you know all about me. It's hard to believe that you care about all the things I care about, and find interest in me. I know that you care about this new life I desire to live for You, Greg, and the children. God, help me each day as I continue on this new path. Give me the strength I need each day to endure. I love you! I'm gonna pretty up this temple for You!

In Jesus' name, Amen

i WiLl PrAiSe My HuSbAnD

Many years ago I wrote this letter about my husband and gave it to him. Though this letter describes how I feel for Greg I don't think I will ever be able to convey the true magnitude of my love for him in mere words. I'm sharing this letter with all of you because I'm missing him this week while he is away in California on business. I dislike when he is on a trip and away from us, but understand that if he is to provide for us these are some of the sacrifices we must make. Greg is my most favorite guy in the whole world; he is my best friend, my trusted ally. Things just don't run as smoothly when he is away and he is surly missed more than anything.

When I think of my husband, the first thing I want to do is to praise him.
What a strong man he is, he carries so much on his shoulders.
He has so many responsibilities that I far too often take for granted.
He faithfully goes to work every day to provide for our family,
making the money that God allows him to make so that he can buy all the things that nourish us. Even with all these responsibilities he still remembers to love his wife. Greg truly shows his love, through thoughtfulness, kindness, gentleness, patience, and understanding. I even get a kiss each morning before he steps into his office and another every evening as we snuggle into bed together. Greg remembers to encourage me and regularly praises me for being a great mom (which always seems to happen on the days I feel I have failed as a mom). Greg manages to get outside and care for our yard during the spring and summer months, he's careful to do all the necessary jobs to keep the grounds in good condition. Greg also applies his handy skills within our home, making sure it stands for another 15 years or more. He says he isn't good at playing "handy-man", but I believe that if he sees that a job must be done, he is off to a great start.

Greg never forgets his gift of fatherhood. When his long day in the office has come to an end he gleefully comes downstairs and immediately jumps into his “daddy roll”. He smoothers our three children with all the love he can muster-up, straight from the bottom of his toes to the tips of the hairs on his head. Because Greg is so thoughtful he helps me continue my task of putting dinner on the table most evenings with no interruptions, by going off with the kids, working on AWANA verses, playing outside, or doing odd jobs in the yard with them. Greg will then sit down for dinner with all of us, remembering never to complain about what is on the menu. He chats with all four of us about our day too. He even hands out discipline for the children’s manners and behavior when needed. When bed time is near Greg is ready to work with me as a team. Together we tuck our babies all snug & tight into their beds. Greg will read with enthusiasm a wonderful bed time story, making sure his character voices fit each roll. I've even heard him sing the kids a bed time Song as they close their eyes. An attractive and endearing quality to have. When the kids are on their way to la-la land Greg and I get ready for our time. Most nights before I come downstairs Greg has already made the evening coffee for us. Then we sit together and watch a program or movie. Who is this man God has sent me? How perfect he is! Why do I feel so undeserving of God’s gift? I will say thank you every day for my husband and I will love him with all that I am. God has truly blessed my family with a man that is first committed to HIM and then to his family.
How wonderfully my husband is fitting to the mold God has intended him to fill. God has sent my family a great provider, “Our Super Man”. I will praise my husband, lifting him up according to his needs.

Thank you God, for this man you have sent in your image. Lord, will you please continue to help him grow closer to you? Lord, remind him of his place in this world and how important he is to You and to us. Let him know that he is a righteous man. Praise him for all he does for You in your Son’s name.
Thank you God for my Husband!

In Jesus' name, Amen

DaDdY's LiTtLe GiRl

Yesterday marked the 44th year of marriage for my parents!

Often I find myself remembering my Dad, but more often I catch myself missing him. Knowing that mom and dad's anniversary was approaching naturally brought back special moments with him, memories I Cherish of him.

I decided to thumb through my wedding album this past week. My memories of that day were of complete joy, I remember not having a care in the world, I remember the words my dad shared with me. I remember singing to him as we danced together, I remember the words from the song and his reaction to them. I cried as I sang and rested my cheek against his. He said I was beautiful, he said I sang beautifully too. I don't think I'll ever forget the words to Kippi Brannon's song- Daddy's Little Girl. Because at that time there couldn't have been a more perfect song for me and my daddy to dance to. As I thought of my dad I also thought of how much my mom must miss him. Imagining life without my husbands seems impossible, unbearable really. It was at that moment that I began to cry. I asked myself, "How has mom stayed so strong all these years?" Each day she wakes and each day she trudges through. It was then that I knew God has been there all along, with her and at times even carrying her. She may not always remember that He is there, but I know that He is and will always be with her. Boy do I miss Dad. I long for him, I long for him to know my children, I desire for him to meet the woman I've become. But, I have hope. I have a promise. One day I will be in the arms of my dad again and together we will spend eternity praising our heavenly father. For now I hold tight to my memories. I rest my head on Jesus' shoulder. He knows this loss I feel and when it hurts I know He will carry me.

Dear God,
I am overwhelmed and filled with thanksgiving. You have blessed me greatly. Lord, I thank you for delivering me from the pain and suffering that comes from loss. Dad's passing was very painful for a short time. It was only by your grace and compassion for me that I finally found peace. I remember him today and I miss him. And even though I cry it's not an unbearable pain because I know I will see him again soon. Thank you God for your overflowing peace, grace, compassion, and love for me. I love you will all that I am! Please give Daddy a kiss for me!

In Jesus' name, Amen

FiNdInG cOnTeNtMeNt

I've never been one for making New Year’s resolutions, but for some reason this year I've found myself doing just that. I've committed to two resolutions. With your prayer and my perseverance I feel they can be doable. My first resolution is to be sure to send out birthday cards to my friends and family. The second is to be 100% content with this life God has given to me. I want to be happy with EVERYTHING and accepting of all that He has blessed me with. I believe that if I remember to seek wisdom and discernment from God's love letter to me. I will find this peace once and for all. I desire His teachings and His path for me and the life He wants for me.
Don't get me wrong, I have been blessed with a full and happy life. However there are times I find that I want more. More money, a better home, a "newer" used vehicle, a vacation, and so-on, and so-on. Why is it that I feel that I can't be happy (content) with how things are right now? Why must I always look to the future with anticipation and delivery of "MORE"? Well it's about time to STOP dead in my tracks and look at what's right in front of me. I have money and the means to purchase what I need. Just when I think I won't have money for the weeks grocery shopping God puts a check in my lap. I have a beautiful unfinished home that keeps us cozy, dry, and warm. So what if it's the wrong color or has light bulbs hanging from the ceilings. It's a gift from God with a gorgeous chunk of land attached to it. Greg and I OWN both of our cars, not everyone can say that. So what if the carpets are worn and filled with stains and honestly who really cares if the windows get stuck. The suburban has been a faithful and reliable tuff truck. It gets us to each and every destination. And if I wait God will present the right and most perfect time for rest. I just need to practice the gift of patience.
So… With all that being said I plan to live in the moment, capture each day, and relish the abundance of God’s forever Grace and blessings. I have to trust that things are just as they should be and I have to stop living for what I feel should come. I realized today that I’ve been handed all that I need, I’ve been given many gifts some that I didn’t even see as gifts. God is with me always and I can rest safely in His arms.

Dear God,
Where do I start, you have given me so much. And still when I ask you give. From now on please help me to remember that all I have is from you and you know just what I need. Father, teach me to live each day the right way and that I glorify you through it. Feed me with your wisdom. Help me to recognize the beauty of each day and the blessing that comes from the rising sun. Lord, you amaze me!

In Jesus’ name, amen
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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