Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Unforgettable Experience

I'm sitting here in our condo on vacation enjoying the silence and decided to update my blog a little. I really enjoy blogging, but I have other priorities that come first right now, so I'll just blog when I can. We are on our first "real" vacation in South Padre with our best friends. It's a blast! We went to the beach Sunday and the kiddos loved it! Of course we did, too! Yesterday, a tropical storm blew in so we did a little shopping and hung out at the condo. Last night was an experience to remember. The kids were all asleep by 9, so we started watching a movie and enjoyed some snacks. The tropical storm came in and the electricity went out. So, we watched it for a while from the balcony and windows. My friend, Tricia, and I looked like little kids with our noses pressed to the glass watching the storm. It wasn't so bad until we discovered water all over the floor. Still not exactly sure where it came from, but it took every clean towel we had to clean it all up. We all attempted to go to bed a little bit after that. The kiddos became restless about that time, so we didn't get much sleep. This morning we decided to go to McDonald's for breakfast since our power was still out. Right before we left, it came back on. Yeah! We still went ahead and enjoyed breakfast and drove around the island. There were a few signs that blew over from the storm, but it didn't look that bad at all. I'm not sure our pictures or video we took did justice to how it looked in person. When I put Natalie to bed, I started to get a little nervouse because the wind was whistling past one of our windows. It sounded pretty scary. Then, God reminded me of what it must have been like when the disciples were on the lake and Jesus was sleeping through the storm. He said, "Be still," and the wind and waves calmed immediately. He reminded me that He was in control and in that moment He calmed me eventhough the storm outside was raging. It's pretty nice outside now. A little cloudy, but it seems to be breaking up. Laney and DJ are napping so I'm sure we'll head down to the beach a little later. Natalie is having fun fishing with her daddy and Johnny. It's been so nice to get away and enjoy time with our family and friends. I'm excited to see what the rest of the week has in store.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Fresh Start

I know it's been quite a while since my last blog. I've really been convicted about my priorities over the past few weeks. I love to blog and surf other blogs for cute crafts and ideas, but I felt as if it was taking up time that could be better spent in other areas of my life. I also love to spend time with my girls and sew. So, I've really been working on spending more quality time with my girls during the day and sewing after they go to bed at night. So, that doesn't leave a lot of time to keep up with my blog. God's really teaching me how to balance everything better so hopefully I can find how to work keeping up with my blog in there.

I was blessed to be able to go to youth camp with our teenagers this year. I haven't been able to go since we've been at MSBC because I have one toddler and preschooler who need me. Well, God laid it on my heart to go this year. It was so hard leaving the girls for 8 days! Those moms who have been there totally understand. The longest Laney had been gone was for a weekend and that was just a few weeks ago. God gave me the strength and peace throughout the week at camp. I knew I was where I needed to be without a doubt, even if it was difficult leaving the girls. God worked in AWESOME ways!!!! I can't even begin to describe how our youth group came together and comforted and encouraged each other. I've never experienced the closeness of a youth group like I did this past week. I was blessed to spend the week with two amazing ladies and get to know them better. I was also blessed to spend a whole week with my other girls...the girls in my youth group that I call mine. I was able to set aside being mom for the week and just focus on my teenagers. Something that is very difficult to do when you have little ones. Needless to say, my week was amazing!

Now, we are closing out day 1 of readjusting to life after camp. Natalie has done much better than I could ever have imagined. She's a little whiney and clingy, but not too bad considering she's still exhausted. Laney, on the other hand, is a different story. She seems like a different little girl. I left a happy, bubbly little girl and return to a tantrum throwing mess. I'm not sure if it's because we were apart for a week or if she's going through a phase. God has definitely given me more patience and understanding with them. I know it's going to be a tough week and I'm prepared as much as I can be.

God is good all the time. All the time God is good.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Idol vs. God

I'm leading a Bible study with my youth girls in June over Hayley DiMarco's book Idol Girls. I'm really enjoying it so far. I've discovered that I have some idols of my own that I'm dealing with. Things that I didn't see as idols. Since God has reavealed this to me, I've been in the process of dealing with these idols and making sure God is first in everything I do. Of course, Satan knows this and has tried to use it to his advantage. He has really been hitting me hard trying to get me down and use my idols to pull me away from God. One idol I'm dealing with is my appearance. I always thought that by the time I was 30 (which I'll be next year) that I wouldn't be dealing with the same stuff my junior high and high school girls deal with. I mean, you think you would outgrow it at some point. Well, reality has hit that it probably isn't going away any time soon. I need to remember that God created me beautiful in His image. Yes, I do need to exercise daily and watch what I eat (which I'm trying really hard to do better at), but I don't need to obsess over how I look. I don't need to compare myself to anyone else. Our society doesn't help in this matter at all! You can turn on the t.v. at anytime and be smacked in the face with what they say women are supposed to look like. It's also in the stores. So many of the styles of clothes are for one body type...those with no hips, big backends and legs. All of which I may add, that I have. So where shopping once used to be enjoyable, now I dread it. Not to mention all of the 80s and 90s styles that are back in. Yuck! That's a different discussion all together, though. In addition, it seems like so many of the tops that are in style are so low-cut or tight that no one can really be comfortable in them.

In addition, I've felt so distant from God lately. I've been spending time with Him during the day, but not near as much or as meaningful as I need to be. This morning in church, He really spoke to me through the song service and through the message. He used these two songs to remind me of a few things...

Friend of God

Who am I that you are mindful of me
That you hear me when I call
Is it true that you are thinking of me
How you love me it's amazing

I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
I am a friend of God
He calls me friend

God Almighty, Lord of Glory
You have called me friend

He calls me friend
He calls me friend


Draw Me Close

Draw me close to You
Never let me go
I lay it all down again
To hear You say that I'm your friend
You are my desire
No one else will do
Cause nothing else can take Your place
To feel the warmth of your embrace
Help me find my way
Bring me back to you

Your all I want
Your all I've ever needed
Your all I want
Help me know you are near

Wow! I can't remember how many times I've sang these two songs, yet they spoke to me so deeply this morning. Our pastor preached how God is not silent. Here are a few things he said, that God used to really speak to me...

God is not withdrawn from us, but we withdraw from Him.

If I compared myself to the cosmos, I would be smaller than a grain of sand. Yet, God knows me by name!

If I'm not walking with Jesus, then I will never hear the voice of God.

Needless to say, God has not moved at all. I have moved away from Him. Not consciously, but I have still moved. So many times, I get caught up in the business of doing things...ministry, spending time with Michael and the girls, sewing, cleaning, the list could go on and on. These things are not bad, but when I don't stop to be still, spend time with God, and listen to Him, then it seems as if God isn't listening. I heard someone say a long time ago, "I want to be walking so closely to God that when He stops I bump into Him." That is my desire! Words cannot begin to describe what it was like this morning to worship my Jesus and hear from Him!!! I want more of Him!

Do I want to hear God?

You bet I do! Am I listening to Jesus? Then, I need to put Him first, spend time with Him, and rest and trust in Him. Seems like such a simple revelation. When God speaks, sooner or later you have to listen. Which will it be for me? What about you? Are you listening to God?

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Where to Start?

So much has been going on in our lives lately. I'm not really sure where to start. I'll begin with the most important part. God has placed me in a position of leadership in our MOPS group. To make a long story short, I have accepted the position as coordinator of our group. I am totally inadequate and unworthy for this position, but I am following a calling God has placed on my life. I have a passion and desire to reach out to women with young children. I pray that God will work through me and use me to reach out to others and show them His love.

My sweet little Laney turned one a few weeks ago. I'm still wondering where the past year has gone to. It's been filled with wonderful memories that I will cherish forever.

This past week has been crazy to say the least. Michael has been busy with meetings, preparing for Senior Recognition, and preparing to preach on top of everything he normally does. Laney has been sick with tonsilitis, poor baby. And my sweet Natalie has hit the terrible three's. She hasn't actually been terrible, but she has been ignoring me and disobeying quite a bit lately. I'm sure it didn't help with Laney being sick and getting lots of attention this past week. Natalie was much better today after she got some much needed attention from Grammie and Grandpa.

We watched Natalie sing at her Parent's Day Out program tonight. I can't belive her first year of "school" is almost over. Her teachers, Susan and Teresa, have been wonderful! Along with our director, DeAnne. I can't begin to thank them enough for all they do for my little girls. They love on both of them. Natalie has learned so much this past year. I'm sad that her first year is coming to an end, but excited that we'll be able to spend more time together.

Lastly, I've still been working on some crafts as usual. The latest projects are mother's day bags, another clipboard, bags for MOPS, bows for the girls, and a flowergirl's dress for Natalie for my little bro's wedding.

Whew! I'm ready for a vacation! Just two and a half more weeks! We are taking the girls camping at Tyler State Park. I'm so excited! Just us and the outdoors with no distractions and business.

My prayer is that among all the business I don't lose sight of my Creator, Father and Friend. He has given me so many desires and passions. I don't ever want to get so involved with activities that I lose sight of my first passion-JESUS!

Monday, April 12, 2010

Been a While...

Okay, so it's been 2 months since I've posted. It's been crazy around here! We've been sick for the past few weeks, but now we're finally all well. I'll catch up on some things soon. For now, here are two projects I did this weekend.

I almost finished a huge stack of mending the Friday and needed to sew something for some inspiration. I just couldn't resist the zebra and pink. I think it will make a nice gift for my soon-to-be sis-in-law.
I saw some of these that someone else created and just couldn't resist. I made this one for my friend's little girl. I'm still working out the kinks, but I'll definitely be making more for gifts.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Unique Essentials

I love making things for my girls. Anything from clothes to bows and lots of other girly stuff. I also love making baby things and other cute stuff, too. I've had several orders and have decided to branch out a little bit. Here are a few things that I can make for you or your little cutie. All orders are custom made so they will take a little time to create for you. If you're interested, leave a comment, or you can email me at karebear101701@yahoo.com.


Taggie Football $8


Nursing Cover $15 (personalized add $4)


Pinwheel Bow $3.50

Korker Bow $4

Bow Board $25

Overalls $30

Jeans $20


Big Sis/Bro or Little Sis Bro Outfit $25/Shirt Only $15


Purse Pouch $7

Crayon Roll $5 (crayons not included)

Tote with Name $15


Coffee Kozie $5


Bookmarks $3 each


Baby Set: bib $5, burp rags $5 each, diaper and wipes cases $7 (set of 4 $20)


Infant Carseat Tent $25 (with flower accents on tabs add $7)

Boppy Covers $20 (personalized add $4)

Prices are subject to change. If I have to ship any items to you, shipping charges will apply.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Valentine's

I wanted to try something creative this year for valentines for Natalie's friends at PDO. So I made these cake pops from http://www.bakerella.com/.



I also wanted to make these valentines from http://www.skiptomylou.org/.



So, this is what I did...

I made the cake pops and used them instead of tootsie roll pops in the middle of the flowers. I love the way they turned out! It took me a few trys to get the hang of dipping the cake pops. I ended up making the balls and then putting them in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This really helped!




Here are the cake pops waiting to be wrapped. The ones in the background are my first attempts.



Waiting to be put into flower valentines.



Finished!



Now, if I could just figure out how to take really good pictures of my projects. I don't have good lighting in my house so it's kinda difficult. If anyone has any suggestions, please send them my way!

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Big Mamaw

Last week we said goodbye to Michael's great grandmother, aka Big Mamaw. She was a wonderful, godly woman. I've only known her for 7 years. My first memories of her were eating lunch at her duplex on Sunday afternoons. She always made enough food to feed a small army and boy was it good! Michael's uncle and I always fought over who got the last piece of her cornbread. When she got to where she couldn't get around really well, we would tell her we were bringing food over to spend time and eat with her. It didn't matter, she still made food. She was always worried we wouldn't bring enough. She was a very independent woman. I loved to listen to her stories about growing up. After she went to live in the nursing home, we visited her whenever we came into town. She loved both of my girls dearly. We loved to listen to her stories about her latest boyfriends. She said they would chase her down the hals. One time, we asked her about them and this was her response, "Another one died. They just keep dropping like flies." She was always making us laugh. I will miss her. I'm glad she was able to see so many of her great great grandkids. She has 12. Big Mamaw was a wonderful woman who will be greatly missed! I know that we will see her again someday. Until then, we will pass down her stories and legacy to our kids.
We took these when Natalie was about 6 weeks old. This was the first time Mamaw met her.
This was the first time she met Laney back in October. Laney loved her!


This was the last time we went to visit Mamaw. We were all in for Thanksgiving. (We weren't able to visit her at Christmas because Laney was sick.)

Saturday, January 16, 2010

First Date

Well, Natalie and Michael are off on their first date. Some of our friends graciously gave us two tickets to see "The Wizard of Oz" at the theater in Tyler. We decided it would be fun for the two of them to go since Laney is still a BIG momma's girl. They're on their way to eat at McDonald's and then off to see the play. I hope Natalie has a wonderful time and doesn't come home terrified! I think she'll really enjoy it. Michael will too as long as she doesn't ask why every 5 seconds.
Laney is content playing on the floor beside me. I think she's enjoying the quiet. Natalie has been crazy today! We've wrestled several times just playing around. I'm not sure where she learned how, though. One time, she was sitting on my head. Michael said, "Toot on mommy's head." The next thing I know, she's really still and quiet and she does it!!!!!!!!! Maybe she'll chase the boys away on her own when she gets older. On the other hand, I really hope we can phase that out soon. I would much rather her act like a lady and have better manners. As long as she just does it around the house with us.
That's about it...Not too much else is going on around here. I'm hoping to get some mending and a few other things finished later when Laney goes to bed. Right now, I'm gonna go round us up some dinner and snuggle with her.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Church or Worship

As I was getting ready for church yesterday morning, I was talking to my mom on the phone. She said they were visiting a new church...again. She and my dad have lived in a small country town (much like GS) for 9 years next month and they still haven't found a church where they can get plugged in. Some of my earliest memories are from being in church with my family. My mom taught preschool choir and my dad helped with the bus ministry. Over the years, we moved churches several times, but we always got plugged in quickly and loved serving. So, it breaks my heart that they still haven't found a church.

During our service at MSBC, I worshiped God with all that I was. We have a wonderful music minister who loves the Lord. Then, I drank in every word from our pastor. We are truly blessed to be at a church that loves God and reaches out to our community. Our pastor isn't afraid to preach the Bible. He doesn't just preach all the stuff that makes you feel good. God uses him to bring us His Word that convicts and changes hearts.

I'm saddened that churches like ours are few and far between in our world today. This is evident in my parents' lives. They are seeking a church that reaches out to the community and isn't content with just playing church on Sundays and Wednesdays. I pray that God will lead them to a church where they can worship Him, be taught from His Word, and find a place to get plugged in and serve.

Sometimes being a minister's wife is tough. Most people don't understand unless you've been there or you are directly related to someone who is in ministry. Even through the tough times, I never regret the profession that God has placed us in. We have always served at churches that love God and reach out to people. We have been truly blessed to serve with wonderful people along the way. It is hard when God says it's time to move, but He has always provided us with everything we've ever needed and so much more. Hopefully, we'll be at MSBC for a long time. I've really grown to enjoy small town life. I've also never had so many wonderful and godly friends.

I mentioned in a previous post that our church is participating in GPS 2020. The first phase is to reach everyone in Texas with Christ by Easter 2010. It can seem overwhelming at times. But as our pastor said yesterday. You just have to obey God. He will work in hearts. Only He can call someone to Him and save them. It's not our job to save people. We just need to obey God. The next four months are going to be very busy preparing for a harvest. When I start to wish that things weren't so busy, I try to remember that this is what God has called us to do. This is what our lives should be about. So many times I seem to get caught up in my everyday tasks of cleaning, cooking, clothes and my girls that I forget God wants me to go outside my comfort zone. So many times I feel like I'm just going through the motions. I want God to work in my heart and life. I pray that GPS 2010 will move so many of us outside of our comfort zones to reach out to our community. Watch out GS, God has amazing things in store for us!

Saturday, January 9, 2010

New Year

Okay, so I've been really bad about posting to my blog over the past few months. So, as Natalie watches Cars and Laney plays beside me I'm gonna do a quick recap of the last few months. Our holidays were wonderful! We spent lots of time with family and friends, ate way too much and made lots of wonderful memories! The girls are getting so big and changing more and more each day.

Natalie will be three in less than two months! I'm still trying to figure out where the time has gone. She's way too smart for her own britches! She loves going to PDO, puggles, playing with Laney, playing with her doll house, and playing games with Michael and me. She comes up with the funniest stuff and never ceases to amaze me.

Laney just turned 8 months. On Christmas day she got her first bottom tooth and the second followed close behind. She's learned to crawl and is finally okay with playing on the floor by herself. She is almost fully weaned now, which sometimes makes me a little sad. She's done amazingly well with it. Since she got her teeth, she has started "talking" so much! She is finally starting to become more of a daddy's girl. She is still a big mommy's girl, though. She loves to play with Natalie. I pray that they will continue to have a close relationship as they grow up.

Michael is working hard at the church. We've started a GPS (God's Plan for Sharing) program which keeps him even busier. He loves working at the church and spending time with us.

I think I'm finally caught up on sleep for a little bit from the holidays and the girls waking up at night. I'm still trying to get back into the swing of sewing. I sewed so much before Christmas that it's okay if I don't see my machine for a while. I guess that's about it. I'm just trying to enjoy each day and take things as God brings them our way. God has blessed us so much this past year! I'm excited to see what He brings our way in 2010.