tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1759403254836212882024-02-07T14:10:20.767-05:00to be changed.amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.comBlogger438125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-75722086811064451312015-09-04T11:19:00.000-04:002015-09-04T11:19:48.243-04:00A post on parenting<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I'm not exactly sure where to start this post, but I've been super reflective lately. Maybe it's my baby's first birthday that is just around the corner? I'm not really sure, but I've had this on my heart for a while, so I thought I'd better put the words to paper. Or, screen. You know what I mean. (see what I did there?)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Somewhere in the last year, since having my third baby, my perspective has shifted in regard to raising my children. I'm not exactly sure what to attribute it to. I honestly think it's been a great handful of things. But one thing is for sure. It's a work that's been done deep in my heart, and I am so grateful to the Lord for it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I think I can best summarize it by saying that <b>I am deeply and richly enjoying this time with my kids</b>. So much of my earlier years of parenting were spent just waiting for the next moment, the next phase, or waiting for the difficult times/phases to pass. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Waiting for my first period after Molly was born so that we could have another baby. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Waiting through my difficult pregnancy with Cooper so that he could be born and my body could feel back to normal. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Clenching my teeth through the hellish adjustment we had from one to two kids, praying it would pass.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Waiting to buy a house.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Wishing our way through fixing up our house so we could just move in already. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Learning about our sweet surprise baby and waiting through yet another pregnancy that challenged me so deeply to learn that God is bigger--even bigger than pregnancy. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Then something sweet happened. Maggy Michelle was born, and for the first time ever, I relished that newborn stage. I didn't wish it away, because I knew--I absolutely, positively knew--how it would flash by in the blink of an eye. I wanted to be able to look back on that phase and think, <b>"There's no way I could have cherished it any more than I did."</b> And that is exactly how I feel.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">If you're a parent, you have probably heard more times than you'd like to admit, "Enjoy these times, one day you will miss them," or something like that. There was a time when I would seriously roll my eyes at those statements. It was so annoying to me. <i>Don't they remember what this is like? Obviously not! This is the hardest thing I've ever done! </i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And ya know what? I don't know what it's like yet to be past the little years. Mine are presently 4, 2.5, and almost 1. <i>It's crazy town, folks.</i> But I have to think that if this is the overwhelming advice I get from people that are past my stage of parenting, that <b>maybe there's something to it.</b> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And so I choose joy. I choose to relish these moments that are fleeting. The giggles over something silly. The lengthy eye-contact with them, because staring into someone's eyes is like seeing their soul. The repetition, no matter what it may be, because they find delight in such simple things. The holding 60 lbs worth of children on your hips, because someday (soon!) they'll be too big to hold on my hips. Life is made up of these little moments, these "in-the-gap" moments. I certainly don't want them to go by unnoticed, just waiting for the next thing.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Please don't read this and think that my life is perfect and I never struggle with my kids. Hang around for one day, and you will know it's the complete opposite. But I'm learning that life is a dance. A step forward, two steps back; two steps forward, one step back. And we will truly wish away our whole lives if we don't stop and <b>live life right now</b>, for all that it is. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-59623072461891213222014-09-17T10:53:00.001-04:002014-09-17T10:53:19.549-04:00Maggy Michelle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hello, blog! I have dreams of writing here more often, but I'm not sure this is the season for that. So for now, it will probably continue to be sporadic. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">For now, let me introduce to our latest addition, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Maggy Michelle Davis!</b></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Born 9/11/14</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">8lbs, 21in</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">She is perfect in every way! Thank you, Lord for this blessing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And for fun, a comparison of Molly (left) and Maggy (right) flashing the same beautiful smile. :)</span></div>
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<br />amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-26534520109205623922014-07-11T09:40:00.002-04:002014-07-11T09:40:55.692-04:00On my heart: mothering.*<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I know it's been f o r e v e r since I've written here. Life does that, I guess. If you want more up-to-date happenings on life, follow me on instagram <a href="http://instagram.com/amydavis356"><span style="font-size: large;">here</span></a> (@amydavis356). :) :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've had more than one person say to me in the last week alone something to the effect that I'm "the best parent ever", or their "parenting role model". And to be quite honest, even though I'd like to gloat and take some glory, it's really SO very much NOT about me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You see, I'm about the second most impatient person that I know. For real. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm hot-headed, and sometimes I inappropriately display my anger in ways that should not be displayed in front of children (or really at all). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am an introvert and recharge by being by myself, which doesn't always mix well with being a stay-at-home mom, especially when the aforementioned children don't nap or don't nap well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I could go on and on about all the reasons why I make an unfit mother. But the bottom line is this:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>I am a work-in-progress, continually being changed and shaped by none other than my LORD Jesus Christ. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When I am patient, <i>it's because of HIM</i>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When I curb my anger and express love instead of hate, <i>it's because of HIM.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When I'm able to rise above myself and my wants and play with my children when all I want to do is run in my room and be alone, <i>it's because of HIM.</i> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm hoping that you're catching my drift.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So while I appreciate the "you're an awesome mom" comments (really, it's very encouraging), I just have to be sure that it's made known that I am only that mom because of who Jesus is in my life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I never want to give the allusion that I have it all together or that this whole parenting thing is easy for me. I want other moms out there who may be struggling to know that there is hope, and His name is JESUS.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Just this morning, it was barely 9am and I was in tears, wondering how in the world I was going to make it through the long day ahead. I fully recognize the raging pregnancy hormones that for sure take all things to the next level, haha, but still. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My mind turned to this passage in Isaiah:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Do you not know? Have you not heard?</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The LORD is the everlasting God, </span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">the Creator of the ends of the earth.</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">He will not grow tired or weary, </span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and his understanding no one can fathom.</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">He gives strength to the weary,</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and increases the power of the weak.</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Even youths grow tired and weary,</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and young men stumble and fall;</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">but those who hope in the LORD </span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">will renew their strength.</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">They will soar on wings like eagles;</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">they will run and not grow weary,</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">they will walk and not be faint.</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">*Isaiah 40:28-31*</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And ya know what was right on that exact same page? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">He tends his flock like a shepherd:</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">He gathers the lambs in his arms</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and carries them close to his heart;</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">he gently leads those that have young.</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">*Isaiah 40:11*</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Such balm to my soul. Such refreshment. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am so thankful that He cares. That He loves my babies more than I do and that He has designed ME to be their mother. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-51939144463394042822014-03-27T11:20:00.002-04:002014-03-27T11:31:10.314-04:00Baby, Baby, Baby - 16 weeks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">*wasn't really thinking when I wore a white shirt against a white background, haha. Makes the teeny bump a little tough to see*</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>How far along:</b> 17 weeks. (the picture was last week) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>Baby's size:</b> </span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;">Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (about as much as a turnip), and he's around 5 inches long.</span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>Sleep:</b> Meh. Nothing to do with pregnancy, though. And everything to do with the two little people that end up with us every night. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b style="line-height: 18px;">Maternity Clothes:</b><span style="line-height: 18px;"> I've started wearing my pants, but my belly isn't really big enough to hold them up all that well, haha.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>Food cravings:</b> None.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>Food aversions:</b> Nothing anymore.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>Symptoms I have:</b> Nothing. It's crazy--Aside from the occasional heartburn, I don't even feel pregnant.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b style="line-height: 18px;">Doctor’s Appointment: </b><span style="line-height: 18px;">Just had one yesterday--healthy heartbeat of 150! We scheduled the ultrasound for three weeks from now! So excited!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><b>Movement:</b> Finally starting to feel the teeny kicks. I assumed that since I felt Cooper so early on, that I'd feel this one early too. That was SO not the case! It honestly wasn't until last week that I was certain I was feeling baby. But yah for those tiny kicks! :)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>Gender:</b> Pretty sure it's a girl, but we'll find out in three weeks!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; line-height: 18px;"><b>What I miss:</b> Nothing! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>What I’m looking forward to:</b> So much. Obviously so excited to find out the gender. I can't wait to start making the baby blanket! I already have the pattern/colors picked out for whether it's a boy or girl. :)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">A few IG pics relating to baby #3….</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">*15 weeks*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">*I started knitting a sweater for the little babe because I just couldn't wait another second! It's gender neutral though.* :)</span></div>
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amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-87120385318537356262014-02-28T16:52:00.001-05:002014-02-28T16:52:17.616-05:00You are not alone.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">*a little humor for a not-so-humorous post.*</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Some days are difficult. Like, really difficult.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Most days I'm excited about a third child.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">On days like today, I'm completely and utterly <i>terrified</i>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Driving home today after a rough morning of running errands, I saw a sign somehow through my tears that I had never seen before. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I think it was an ad for the Army? Not sure. But here's what it said:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We don't take applications. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Only commitment.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And good golly, that resonated quite soundly. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">You see, if I had to submit an application to be a mother, I would most certainly NOT get the job. By my own natural tendencies, I am a downright terrible mother. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's funny*, because I've dreamt of being a mom for my entire life. Somewhere in all that dreaminess, I just kind of assumed it would come naturally to me. Newsflash in case I've been fooling any of you: IT DOESN'T. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">*I chuckle only to keep myself from crying more tears--it's just so far from the truth. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">BUT. While my application would for sure be denied, one thing is even more certain: <b>I am committed</b>. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">First and foremost, I am committed <i>to the Lord</i> and allowing Him to change me. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Second, I am committed <i>to these children</i> and becoming the very best mom that I can be to them. I realize this does not and will never mean perfection. But for me, the best that I can be entails surrendering my natural tendencies to the Lord and begging Him to change me and make me more like Him. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I texted a friend when I got home (which is a rare thing for me when I need help) because I just felt so alone in this and needed to know if I was the only one who struggled. Guess what? I'm not. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Sometimes it's easy to get tunnel vision and only see our own difficulties and along with that, it's so dang easy to believe the lie that noone else knows what we're going through.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I put all this out there as a simple message to others who may be feeling the same: </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">YOU ARE NOT ALONE. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">If you're struggling as a new mom, experienced mom, young mom, older mom, mom of one, mom of twenty, working mom or stay at home mom,<i> you are not alone.</i> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We were made to live in community, support each other, encourage each other, and spur one another on in our callings and commitments. Maybe many of you have already learned this. Maybe not. I just know I feel led to share. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Be encouraged, fellow mamas. No matter where you are on your journey, the Lord wants to use you and teach you and make you more like Him. And do not forget that you are not alone. :)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-55071738280206339712014-02-24T14:36:00.000-05:002014-02-24T14:36:06.491-05:00Jehovah Jirah<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I just have to give the Lord the praise and glory He deserves.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">A little backstory...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This year will be filled with all sorts of big expenses--some of which we were expecting, some of which we weren't. Some days I do better than others when it comes to surrounding my worries to Him and trusting His word when He says:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i>"So do not worry, saying 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do no worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself." </i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">These past few days, my mind has been filled with thoughts of how all of these upcoming expenses will be paid for. And God has been so patient with me, pointing out <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">time after time</span> where He has taken care of us in the past. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Isn't that so silly? I see His constant provision in the past, yet I still sometimes question and doubt how He will take care of in the future! So silly. I know better. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This morning, Chris received some amazing news from his employer. He's asked me to spare the details, but after my initial shock, my eyes welled with tears as I knew this was God speaking.</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Jehovah Jirah. </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>The Lord provides. </b> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I'm certain that this news will not cover everything coming at us this year, but to me, it is such a clear sign of God saying,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">"I've got you guys under the shadow of my wing. Please trust me."</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Lord of Lords - Hillsong ft. Brooke Fraser</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Beholding Your beauty<br />Is all that I long for<br />To worship You Jesus<br />Is my sole desire<br />For this very heart<br />You have shaped for Your pleasure<br />Purposed to lift Your Name higher<br /><br />Here in surrender<br />In pure adoration<br />I enter Your courts<br />With an offering of praise<br />I am Your servant<br />Come to bring You glory<br />As is fit for the work of Your hands<br /><br />Now unto the Lamb<br />Who sits on the throne<br />Be glory and honour and praise<br />All of creation resounds with the song<br />Worship and praise Him<br />The Lord of lords<br /><br />Spirit now living<br />And dwelling within me<br />Keep my eyes fixed<br />Ever on Jesus' face<br />Let not the things of this world<br />Ever sway me<br />I'll run 'til I finish the race<br /><br />Now unto the Lamb<br />Who sits on the throne<br />Be glory and honour and praise<br />All of eternity echoes the song<br />Worship and praise Him<br />The Lord of lords<br /><br />Holy Lord<br />You are holy<br />Jesus Christ<br />Is the Lord</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br />Now unto the Lamb<br />Who sits on the throne<br />Be glory and honour and praise<br />Call all the saints to join in the song<br />Worship and praise Him<br />The Lord of lords</span></div>
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amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-36919282890253481472014-01-22T15:44:00.001-05:002014-01-22T15:44:45.826-05:00Cooper's Birthday Vest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">When Molly was born, I had the idea to make a pillowcase to take to the hospital (add some spunk to the hospital room, know what I mean?) and then use that pillowcase to make an outfit for her first birthday. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">You can see pictures <a href="http://sugarpumkin.blogspot.com/2012/06/mollys-birthday-dress.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">here</span></a> of Molly's dress.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It was a little more difficult to pick the fabric for my pillowcase when Cooper was born, knowing that boy's outfits are slightly more difficult than a girl's dress.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Here's the best shot of the pillowcase in use. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">(Note: best shot of the pillowcase, NOT myself, HAHA)</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LfdM3a04GPg/UuAsJd6RRrI/AAAAAAAAEiI/dYgnAhngXg0/s1600/IMG_1419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LfdM3a04GPg/UuAsJd6RRrI/AAAAAAAAEiI/dYgnAhngXg0/s1600/IMG_1419.JPG" height="640" width="428" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And here is what I made of it for Cooper's first birthday party. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDm607TMl1rba1L37N0YD4jnosoeQw4acSU1_Obuhb1w-DxMtgA3twlUUbb_ndGyCYHa91ZXKsXwXUfo0iMU9uxj3EAar39BbmTXsaHisvVhW8pMgbSmtXOcYRZBEdkrAG0IpHove0tDP/s1600/IMG_9777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDm607TMl1rba1L37N0YD4jnosoeQw4acSU1_Obuhb1w-DxMtgA3twlUUbb_ndGyCYHa91ZXKsXwXUfo0iMU9uxj3EAar39BbmTXsaHisvVhW8pMgbSmtXOcYRZBEdkrAG0IpHove0tDP/s1600/IMG_9777.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I'm pretty excited about how it turned out, and love that I was able to keep this tradition for both kids! :)</span></div>
amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-55752944194130026692014-01-20T17:46:00.002-05:002014-01-20T17:46:44.566-05:00Mike Griffith <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F-aBUN6o-P0/Ut18ydzZ4MI/AAAAAAAAEhc/SI93miA45X8/s1600/IMG_8690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F-aBUN6o-P0/Ut18ydzZ4MI/AAAAAAAAEhc/SI93miA45X8/s1600/IMG_8690.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">In case you don't know, I have about the best father-in-law in the whole world - Mike Griffith. It's for real. I couldn't even begin to describe all that he means to my family. Mike- we love you. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">A couple of things about Mike....</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Mike has a passion for addicts and desires to counsel those who need and want help. He has a new website that you all should check out. <b>Please</b> pass this along to anyone who you think might need and want it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Click <a href="http://www.griffithcounselingandministry.com/">HERE</a> to view his website.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And second, Mike is an incredibly talented musician and song writer and just released his first CD. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It is available to purchase <a href="http://www.griffithcounselingandministry.com/music-ministry/">HERE</a>. Please consider supporting Mike and his amazing ministry! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I had the incredible experience of recording with Mike for one of the songs on his album. You can listen to the whole song on the above link. It's called <i>Line in the Sand</i>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Don't forget to check out Mike's website and music and show him your support!</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SPdaoQE0AUg/Ut18qCLpj2I/AAAAAAAAEhU/Esk3JKQwzIw/s1600/IMG_8676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SPdaoQE0AUg/Ut18qCLpj2I/AAAAAAAAEhU/Esk3JKQwzIw/s1600/IMG_8676.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-87486850412199883582014-01-15T07:19:00.000-05:002014-01-15T07:19:03.849-05:00Cooper is ONE!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">My little Cooper. Today you turn one. ONE!</span><div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I remember your Birth Day so vividly. (One of these days I'll finish all the details of your birth story and get around to posting that)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmxXJr3RXPNQykULQ_XuiQ5y4282vIZoTDYoZvIGEmhFrXYK2QCTooq6km7uQ60cCtvcfrfygIv7GXD8h_ZF1lQI-NOfkUbosJEQDCc-dyiEsoVtDNd4PVONmaECddWt39RmWvldKgY_SV/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmxXJr3RXPNQykULQ_XuiQ5y4282vIZoTDYoZvIGEmhFrXYK2QCTooq6km7uQ60cCtvcfrfygIv7GXD8h_ZF1lQI-NOfkUbosJEQDCc-dyiEsoVtDNd4PVONmaECddWt39RmWvldKgY_SV/s640/IMG_1321.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPO_Y1JlcMoemJD8ApefwbEamd3dNXVLZy41nDA_h2npb5pRabBpdqrcUMsMACsyQSIdly78-Nkjr5laa-UcLd0-zQr_-wOwFtDRLZR51ndlbIzRSSfR6vBu5PNCV1RqYkZC5XG_OpDWUy/s1600/IMG_1394-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPO_Y1JlcMoemJD8ApefwbEamd3dNXVLZy41nDA_h2npb5pRabBpdqrcUMsMACsyQSIdly78-Nkjr5laa-UcLd0-zQr_-wOwFtDRLZR51ndlbIzRSSfR6vBu5PNCV1RqYkZC5XG_OpDWUy/s640/IMG_1394-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAjA8EMMEhHRhvSSNtwba93jIoCNYtSG5zUycIDzP-HJ6R5To-mr5W9HtuPuGMJB43M9jmZdQHhid0D16KyrVNtPnt9AmN0-Js6i4qy1qy5MyrtzwYrxHBuJibDg8WYKL4_85a9hhBtNl/s1600/IMG_1515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAjA8EMMEhHRhvSSNtwba93jIoCNYtSG5zUycIDzP-HJ6R5To-mr5W9HtuPuGMJB43M9jmZdQHhid0D16KyrVNtPnt9AmN0-Js6i4qy1qy5MyrtzwYrxHBuJibDg8WYKL4_85a9hhBtNl/s640/IMG_1515.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbweuL_yjuaE6kmQnG9_uzLA9i5r8kUe1jTDhjB6Hg4dxnV0Pap-jz_NrHFsuuWM80haRXNyg2g6vhxTVQf76kNTL5f-hYCtXCP4NBkrMBLTcAeUq_r8BYlYHEl3NghM_MpWT8cyUt7YKp/s1600/IMG_1549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbweuL_yjuaE6kmQnG9_uzLA9i5r8kUe1jTDhjB6Hg4dxnV0Pap-jz_NrHFsuuWM80haRXNyg2g6vhxTVQf76kNTL5f-hYCtXCP4NBkrMBLTcAeUq_r8BYlYHEl3NghM_MpWT8cyUt7YKp/s640/IMG_1549.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">You big sister Molly was head over heels in love with you from the moment she saw you. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">You were a tough little guy when you were first born. By this face, you'd never know it!</span></div>
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Mommy had a tough time transitioning to two kids. But we learned so much about each other every day. Mommy grew closer to Jesus, and we are all better now because of it.</div>
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Since the very day you started smiling, you could light up a whole room with your smile. It's just that contagious. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2K1CUF_k10wXwcpQpcvuMMBpchRYTOwSBIMkJAZR_8yT8V-tMA7qXMmT2tyPI1Umb8-_TFqtjmQ4LbbmrmtxHcC_7DMz332EyovwzLAxWpWlALtG5-atHT9G7koWErP8k0DYwNmpn1hrT/s1600/IMG_3909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2K1CUF_k10wXwcpQpcvuMMBpchRYTOwSBIMkJAZR_8yT8V-tMA7qXMmT2tyPI1Umb8-_TFqtjmQ4LbbmrmtxHcC_7DMz332EyovwzLAxWpWlALtG5-atHT9G7koWErP8k0DYwNmpn1hrT/s640/IMG_3909.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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See what I mean? :)</div>
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Daddy and Mommy started looking for a house in the summer. I thought this one was meant to be....</div>
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We were so excited when the weather got nicer. That meant playing outside, which we did a LOT!<br />
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In July we traveled to Indiana for Travis and Elizabeth's wedding. You were the most handsome man of them all, if I do say so myself. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxoWK_wLHnYAaTc61hZzH39edhiWZC3WinYZHJURHMe98UClAaSoh1-BC7yE7syS0CrP64DhVIL0uVOKwJQZ55PeHIChBbseBKmdGAaVqvlWacUDC8m5IRTqfAuwbR_2z0LF9YCCYrDGXe/s1600/IMG_5955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxoWK_wLHnYAaTc61hZzH39edhiWZC3WinYZHJURHMe98UClAaSoh1-BC7yE7syS0CrP64DhVIL0uVOKwJQZ55PeHIChBbseBKmdGAaVqvlWacUDC8m5IRTqfAuwbR_2z0LF9YCCYrDGXe/s640/IMG_5955.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You and Molly started sharing a room sometime in the summer. This went over very well. She sleeps through all your crying! ;)</div>
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A happy little pumpkin....</div>
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You and Molly play so well together. It makes my mama heart swell so big to hear the two of you giggle together. I am in love with the bond you share. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghraXLokdjTg-6-nzCDM7HTz7_5Rgei23k5_8ZioiTAahIFEiNZslzW1nKAmL5TJnOeu2PtrADQbCtqYm1nEGwkQkTl5_ywaY3kh7tyb4Nwlai5GMQz2hDFR6PUYsSP9koyQtqY1i1qCnl/s1600/IMG_8349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghraXLokdjTg-6-nzCDM7HTz7_5Rgei23k5_8ZioiTAahIFEiNZslzW1nKAmL5TJnOeu2PtrADQbCtqYm1nEGwkQkTl5_ywaY3kh7tyb4Nwlai5GMQz2hDFR6PUYsSP9koyQtqY1i1qCnl/s640/IMG_8349.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My sweet Cooper. This past year has brought me so much joy. I am so happy to be your mama. Happy first birthday, buddy. Hope your day is full of happiness. :)</div>
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amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-55878444475948163482014-01-08T15:51:00.002-05:002014-01-08T15:51:16.647-05:00Twenty Fourteen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Remember back in March when I <a href="http://sugarpumkin.blogspot.com/2013/03/to-be-changed.html">changed up</a> my blog? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I'm going to let you in on a little secret. I knew I wanted something different, but I wasn't really sure what, so I temporarily wrote in the blog header:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>to be changed.</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And the more I thought about it, the more those exact words lined up with exactly what I wanted for my life. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And thinking back on the year 2013, that is exactly what happened. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I would most certainly say this was the most difficult year of my life, but it has also been the year that has brought me closest to the Lord. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i>*funny how that works, am I right?</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I am so thankful that I stand here in the beginning of 2014 a different person than I was at this time last year. I have a deeper understanding of what it means to live each day dependent on my Savior. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So as I fix my gaze into the next year, I may write a few loose goals, but overall, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I want to grow even deeper in my love and need for Jesus. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I just want to be changed. Again. And again and again and again for as long as I walk this journey called life. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-69628852076765889942014-01-01T11:16:00.001-05:002014-01-01T11:16:31.233-05:00One gigantic CHRISTMAS post.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Because, ya know, it's been a while. And New Years seemed like the perfect day to recap Christmas. :) </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This post is going to be long and picture-heavy...just a fair warning!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">**************</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Setting up the tree together was SO fun this year. Molly loved putting up the ornaments. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Here she is right before putting the tree up:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We decided to get our kids a new ornament each year when we put up the tree so that when they leave our house, they have a box full of ornaments for their own tree someday! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This year I got Molly a baby, because she looooves babies so much. Safe to say she was pretty excited about it. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I finally have a mantel to decorate! So fun!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We went to see the zoo lights on a beautiful night...see, we didn't even wear coats! We thought it wouldn't be that crowded, being a weeknight. Everyone else in Columbus thought so too. :)</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nS7PxzNSvgE/UqB7V7L_vzI/AAAAAAAAERs/9UkcYvNQ2Es/s1600/IMG_8757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nS7PxzNSvgE/UqB7V7L_vzI/AAAAAAAAERs/9UkcYvNQ2Es/s640/IMG_8757.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Chris's work had a Christmas party one Saturday this month, which had a ton of fun activities. Molly was pretty unsure of the idea of getting her face painted, so I went first. Here are our matching bows:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And this was Molly's face when she first saw Santa. She immediately exclaimed, "I don't like Santa Claus!" haha</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And yes, we got the classic picture of a screaming child on Santa's lap. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Cooper, on the other hand, was infatuated with Santa. Especially his nose and his glasses.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Molly and I making Christmas cookies together:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We travelled to North Carolina to spend some time with my family before Christmas. It was nothing short of amazing. I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful family that loves each other and gets along so well. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">My mom bought a bounce house! Yes, a bounce house! Haha. It was so cool, and the kids loved it!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We came home from our trip to a flooded laundry room. Just two days before Christmas. It was terrible timing, to say the least. Monday was such a discouraging day for me, as I was trying to keep my joy amidst all the crazy of the laundry room situation, our cars having issues, and just the madness that IS two days before Christmas. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Then this happened. A sweet, sweet friend from church delivered this beautiful plate of goodies. It just couldn't have come at a more perfect time! God knows best! Thank you SO much, Mikayla and Whitney! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The kiddies before Christmas eve service. You can see how much she adores her little brother.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Also, let it be known that Molly wore the same dress two Christmases in a row. My tiny, petite little girl. (last year on the left, this year on the right)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Molly at Grandma Dorothy's with the big giant Christmas bear:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">(I'm not sure why there's snow on this picture, but it's kinda cool, right?) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Christmas morning was the four of us at our house. It was so relaxing and full of joy. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The annual stocking picture:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Chris had this incredibly old pair of shorts that used to be his dads that were getting super worn out. He literally could not take one step without them falling down (the elastic was so stretched out!) I was finally able to convince him to get rid of them, but without him knowing, I fashioned them into a pair of pants for Cooper.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I figure my <a href="http://lisajimmy.blogspot.com/">sister-in-law</a> is making babies to carry on to a third generation....I'll make a pair of pants to do the same! ;)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Hope everyone else had a Merry Christmas. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Here's to a wonderful 2014!!!</span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-60267447384759847012013-11-19T08:00:00.000-05:002013-11-19T08:00:02.151-05:00Molly & Cooper's Room Tour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Up first is my very favorite room in the whole house. This room has been my favorite in each place that we've lived, but I think this time, it's climbed to the top of my "best ever" list. It's hard to walk in here without smiling. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It kind of just exudes happiness. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">One of my most favorite parts of this room is how much of it is handmade, either by me or some of my best friends. I look all around and am reminded of all the people that love and care about my kids. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Ok, here we go!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Because everybody loves a good before and after:</span> </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We said goodbye to the carpet and wallpaper, and hello to beautiful original hardwood floors and fresh paint. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I also thought I'd include a before and after shot of Molly's kitchen, which we gave her for her second birthday back in May. I found this on Craigslist for super cheap, and just made a few changes. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">That's it! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Hopefully I'll be back soon with tours of the rest of the house. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">But count on it being later rather than sooner. :) </span></div>
<br />amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-6935427836391210962013-11-18T08:31:00.003-05:002013-11-18T08:31:39.576-05:00A lesson in the leaves.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">A couple of weeks ago, I was catching up with my cousin. Since the last time we had talked, both of us had had babies (yeah, it had been a while!). At one point in conversation, she seemed surprised that this whole <i>being-a-mom</i> thing is difficult for me (she has two as well). It made me step back for a second and question what kind of "front" I put on, even if it's unintentional.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I try hard to capture beautiful moments in our life. I do occasionally take pictures of our house when it's a mess just to remind me of it later (and give me a good laugh). But the pictures I post to this blog, to Facebook, to instagram? I mean, of course I want/hope to show pretty pictures. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">BUT but but, just to ward off anyone thinking this is all a walk in the park for me, allow me to depict for you the events that took place before this fun little photo shoot of my kids joyfully playing in the leaves. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It was about 4pm. Chris would be home in about an hour and a half, and I thought, "oh, I'll just take the kids outside and let them play while I do a little yard work." Easy peasey. Fun for all.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Ha. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">First off, it was my first time trying to strap Cooper into the carrier on my back, which was extremely difficult and awkward. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It also just happened to be one of the windiest days we'd had in a while. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">In case you're unaware, let me just assure you that raking leaves and trying to put them into a paper bag that is supposed to stand up by itself while wind is blowing everything on God's green earth all over the place.....Good golly, I lost my train of thought. Basically, it's not a pretty picture!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Fifteen minutes in, I was beat. I haven't exercised in--well, I'm not sure how long it's been--and my muscles were aching like crazy. My dog was barking at the rake and her leash was getting all tangled in it. Molly's bag of sidewalk chalk was blowing down the neighbor's driveway. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It was getting more and more miserable by the minute.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">But at this point, the unthinkable crossed my mind.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Let it go, Amy.</span> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Let go of your expectations to have this task completed in this amount of time. Let your kids be kids, and enjoy them! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Haha, looking back on that, it seems so simple. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So THAT is the point I ran inside, grabbed my camera, and told both kids to just have at it in the pile of leaves. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's so funny what a simple shift in your frame of mind can make. It went from this late afternoon being totally miserable to so enjoyable. So thank you, Lord, for helping me! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-74940879464913785662013-11-08T08:33:00.002-05:002013-11-08T08:33:27.381-05:00Life IN Jesus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">God made him who had no sin</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b>to be sin for us</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">so that <i>in him</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">we might</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> become the righteousness of God.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">2 Corinthians 5:21</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Whoa. That's a verse I have to read over and over again to fully comprehend the fullness of it. And still, whoa. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I was talking with a friend yesterday about temptation and sin and how it seems that we each have our own thing or things that we're tempted by.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And this morning, as I read this verse, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I'm reminded of how much <i>I need Him</i>. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Every moment of every hour, I need Him! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I think that's what this verse means when it says, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">in Him. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">When we are <i>in Him</i>, constantly abiding, <u>that's</u> when we're becoming more and more like Jesus, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">able to live in victory over our sins!!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And this is the Gospel, my friends. The Good News. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>We can live a victorious life in Jesus! </b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Praise Him!</span></div>
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amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-22429771072449607292013-10-15T15:50:00.003-04:002013-10-15T15:50:58.771-04:00Do you follow?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Are you joining the fun on instagram? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">If not, you totally should.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Follow me <a href="http://instagram.com/adavis356"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">here</span></a>. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">because let's be honest, most times, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">instagram is easier than a blog.</span></div>
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<br />amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-66831559367147375392013-10-06T11:43:00.001-04:002013-10-06T11:43:26.563-04:00On my heart<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Roseola. Molly had it when she was 14 months old, and now my sweet almost 9 month old baby has it. Not a huge deal, but enough to keep us home from church so that the other babies don't get it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So I sit here with my coffee and the Word in front of me and listening to the rain fall <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(or maybe that's just the puddle underneath the gutter)</span>. Either way, it's peaceful. And my heart is full. Missing my church family, for sure, but God is here. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">As I try to settle my mind, I can't help but think about all the things I want to be involved in right now. My mind literally races. All of <i>things</i> that I want to be <i>doing</i>. All the people I want to see. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And for some reason, I let guilt overtake me that I'm <b>not</b> doing these things. I could do better at this, do better at that. And who's looking at me wondering why I don't do this or that? And w<i>hy do I even care</i>? Maybe I should just quit everything and start at square one? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Or maybe I should just allow myself to be released from feeling like I need to do it all. And just be.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>Just live and love and follow my Jesus. </b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">My son, do not forget my teaching, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">but keep my commands in your heart, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">for they will prolong your life many years</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">and bring you prosperity.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Let love and faithfulness never leave you;</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">bind them around your neck,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">write them on the tablet of your heart.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Then you will win favor and a good name</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">in the sight of God and man.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Trust in the LORD with all your heart</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">and lean not on your own understanding;</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">in all your ways acknowledge him,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">and he will make your paths straight.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i>Proverbs 3:1-6</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-62344234049300830252013-09-25T22:29:00.000-04:002013-10-10T23:02:17.975-04:00the BEST kind.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Tonight as I sit here, exhausted from a day's work and waiting for my dear hubby to get home from <a href="http://sugarpumkin.blogspot.com/2013/09/a-house.html">our house</a>, I read <a href="http://www.nieniedialogues.com/">Nie</a>'s encouraging words, and this stuck out to me:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-family: Courier, monospace; line-height: 22px;">Family is hard work, but it is the best hard work that ever existed.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">That's the truth, and it is echoing in my head tonight. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Thank you, Lord, for my precious, beautiful family.</span></div>
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amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-55470068729636331602013-09-13T08:26:00.000-04:002013-09-13T08:26:41.423-04:00My "quiet" time<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I've mentioned this <a href="http://sugarpumkin.blogspot.com/2013/06/stand-fast.html">before</a>, but sometimes, my quiet time with the Lord looks a whole lot like this:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">What I've realized is that this is just a season of my life. And know what I'm finding? <i>The Lord meets us right where we are</i>. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So be encouraged, my friends. Just come to Him and let Him show you His love. His mercies. His truth. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Psalm 90:14</b></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-7984491413953240692013-09-08T21:50:00.002-04:002013-09-08T21:50:35.636-04:00A house.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">A lot of you may have already seen via Facebook and instagram, but this past week Chris and I became first time homeowners!!!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Woo hoo!!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Holding the key:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKPhay_-t1FUB_xQhl5G5SNKNjp8djtQ4fswmNkN5Btt6iiEv8_ogG5WwwWsAQ8_w-MgNKhhLgsXjHCOVYMoANgbQTWXIxm7ek8XZ4vDltIJgf9gwaJdfGJUXEElL1RYhXAj0NO_YpQir/s1600/IMG_6976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKPhay_-t1FUB_xQhl5G5SNKNjp8djtQ4fswmNkN5Btt6iiEv8_ogG5WwwWsAQ8_w-MgNKhhLgsXjHCOVYMoANgbQTWXIxm7ek8XZ4vDltIJgf9gwaJdfGJUXEElL1RYhXAj0NO_YpQir/s640/IMG_6976.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Us with the kiddos:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Demolition in progress: </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">While we wouldn't really consider it a "fixer-upper", it does have a bit of work that we're going to do on it before we move in. (mainly floors and walls--stuff that's way easier to do while the house is empty!)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Taking a break and resting on the porch. :)</span></div>
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<br />amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-52066648637951146212013-09-03T10:00:00.001-04:002013-09-03T10:00:44.564-04:00Living Water- part TWO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Well. I certainly didn't intend for a whole entire month to go by without writing. But ya know, life happens. We took a trip to North Carolina to visit my mom. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(I'll give you a recap on that later.) </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Also, I'll have a really exciting announcement later this week. Am I keeping you on the edge of your seat? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(no, I'm not pregnant, let's just get that out of the way now)</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Anyway.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">My month of drinking only water is over. And this coffee I'm drinking right now as I type is SO tasty. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So what did I learn? What did the Lord teach me? First off, if you are one of those people that says, "I could NEVER give up coffee!", know that <b>I was one of those people too</b>. I really was. But when the Lord calls, I answer, and when He calls, He equips (not the other way around.)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It was somewhat ironic, because the very day I made that commitment, I read this on <a href="http://instagram.com/wifeysinger">Hannah's instagram</a>:</span><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; line-height: 20px;">"it is wonderful what miracles god works in wills that are utterly surrendered to him. he turns hard things into easy, and bitter things into sweet. it is not that he puts easy things in the place of the hard, but he actually changes the hard thing into an easy one."</span> </i></span></blockquote>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; line-height: 20px;"><i>hannah whit hall smith</i></span></span></blockquote>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: proxima-nova, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">And that day, I wondered if that would be my experience through all of this.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Let me tell you, friends, <i>He absolutely was my help.</i> </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">I never suffered from caffeine headaches. I was rarely tempted to give in. But on the occasions that I was, He was my strength, and I was reminded of WHY I was doing it, not just the fact that I was. In summary, <b>keeping your eyes on Jesus is always a good thing.</b></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">*************</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">One last thing, friends. Here's a song that's been on my heart the last couple of days. It's speaking to me hardcore. What is your "sing all you want to"? This last month, mine has been drinking coffee. And this week? It's something else. Please give this song a listen. Open your hearts to what the Lord may be speaking to you. </span></span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Anything I put before my God is an idol.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Anything I want with all my heart is an idol. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Anything I can't stop thinking of is an idol. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Anything that I give all my love is an idol.</span></span></i></blockquote>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-31551251823754075462013-07-31T14:33:00.000-04:002013-07-31T14:35:28.677-04:00Living Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1X8etsObBqA/UflVQHWZ7VI/AAAAAAAAD-I/U44FbzPajlI/s1600/01-IMG_0245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1X8etsObBqA/UflVQHWZ7VI/AAAAAAAAD-I/U44FbzPajlI/s400/01-IMG_0245.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: normal; vertical-align: top;"> "</sup>Whoever believes<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: normal; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26367A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup> in me...rivers of living water<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: normal; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26367C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup> will flow from within them.” John 7:38</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This is a really hard blog post to write.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">1. It's making me incredibly vulnerable not just to the internet world but to those who are close to me and to whom I see on a consistent basis. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">2. I'm afraid of failure. Extremely afraid. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">BUT, I feel the Lord leading me here, and I feel that I need to share it. So here goes. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I have a struggle with bad food and healthy eating. Like, a back and forth, roller coaster, up/down, love/hate relationship, however you want to describe it. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I have lots of knowledge on how to eat healthy, I know why I need to do it, yet I just cannot get over the hump of getting all the crappy food out of my diet. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I tell myself...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i>It's been a bad day, go ahead and swing through McDonalds and get that large Dr. Pepper and large french fry. </i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><i>The kids are finally in bed, you're completely exhausted, you deserve that ice cream. </i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's been a stirring in my heart, to say the least. But I think <a href="http://www.naptimediaries.com/2013/07/the-lies-i-say-and-what-is-true.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">this</span></a> post finally pushed me over the edge to sit down, journal out my thoughts, and pray about what steps to take next. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>Because clearly, this is a heart issue.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Like Jessi, I decided to write out my own lies/truths about this subject. I won't share them all, but here's my first one:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">LIE: food and treats will refresh me.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">TRUTH: JESUS is the only true living water and ultimate source of refreshment. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So, what to make of all this? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>I'm going to drink only water for the next 30 days.</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">A goal towards healthier eating and a reminder of what is my true living water.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And yes, that means I'm not going to drink coffee. Do I think coffee is bad? Heck no. I think coffee is God's wonderful gift to mothers. :) <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But I also believe that good things can get in the way of what HE wants to be in our lives. </span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So friends, this is going to be hard. I'm not going to be able to do it by myself. Which I think is also what the Lord is going to teach me. My weakness. His strength. My Living Water. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-68193866443785278042013-07-20T21:19:00.000-04:002013-07-20T21:19:11.455-04:00Life Lately, as told through pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Brother/Sister Duo.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3IVCDvBwesZ6kLYojHqmeSTxy90eSPKxFaVUvqQwZQnuewsp0Mq5wTyvKcfRZl0hBKIIUi5fvpFKDB7zRLjPmaATk5v3ybG-aD9xjpKTC8ozcXOzMGgWQ8GcCaifZxXXx8r_chBOatRW/s1600/IMG_5237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3IVCDvBwesZ6kLYojHqmeSTxy90eSPKxFaVUvqQwZQnuewsp0Mq5wTyvKcfRZl0hBKIIUi5fvpFKDB7zRLjPmaATk5v3ybG-aD9xjpKTC8ozcXOzMGgWQ8GcCaifZxXXx8r_chBOatRW/s640/IMG_5237.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">She is <i>loving</i> that he sleeps in her room now. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I think he likes it too. :)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmtCMt2UdMifyq-sBvxbfvqAdc1kIVYuPc69Y1qGUic-OLNp9ypaUHTG-UMjmBeAjpzD6bwYb15b3QajhRHOLisufhPL3FlpY_pp3ifXdwpp7A17hjqhtguQDesg_EpWBfK0kjnyukuhj/s1600/IMG_5246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmtCMt2UdMifyq-sBvxbfvqAdc1kIVYuPc69Y1qGUic-OLNp9ypaUHTG-UMjmBeAjpzD6bwYb15b3QajhRHOLisufhPL3FlpY_pp3ifXdwpp7A17hjqhtguQDesg_EpWBfK0kjnyukuhj/s640/IMG_5246.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Ya know, bonding.</span> </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Girlfriend loves her an ice cream cone.</span> </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I feel like I'm getting a small glimpse of what Molly is going to look like as a teenager here. *hold me*</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Swimming with Grama.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Trying out some food. He gets SO excited and flails his hands in the air. :)</span> </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Rejoicing with friends that have welcomed their sweet baby boy into the world.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I cannot even handle the sweetness....</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Experimenting with homemade almond milk. The french press method didn't quite work for me, but I'm hoping to keep trying and find the right way!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This morning I tried to explain to Molly the difference between a CD and a DVD. I told her she had a CD in her hand and that we hear the music with our ears...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Happy weekend, friends!</span></div>
amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-79162606273700302642013-07-16T22:28:00.000-04:002013-07-16T22:28:08.057-04:00SIX months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Oh Coop. Where do I even begin your six month post? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">(Well,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"> first, I read Molly's. <a href="http://sugarpumkin.blogspot.com/2011/11/six-months.html">Here</a>. Wow, that seems like forever ago.)</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">You are a lot like me--you live in the extremes of life. When you're happy, you're really happy. But when you're mad, well, you're really mad. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">You have quite possibly the <i>best</i> smile I've ever seen. Your face can light up the entire room. And your laugh. Oh, your laugh. You are super ticklish, and your sister can really make you giggle.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">But--how do I say this?--you've been quite the challenge. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I'm fairly certain I've changed more in the last six months than I have in my entire life. You've driven me to my knees in a way that nothing else has up to this point in my life.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">You've taught me more about being a parent than I had learned with Molly. You've been quite the opposite of her, throwing me for a loop in that some of the things we'd done with her, well, they don't exactly "work" with you. (I imagine we'll be running into that a whole lot more!) :)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Ya know, it's hard to necessarily put the blame on one thing, because it's not just you. It's been tough with daddy in school, learning how to adjust to two kids, and your big sister Molly entering a new phase of toddler-dom. :) </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">These last six months have stretched us, to say the least. But my love for you has grown more than I ever thought possible. You are SO special to me, Coop-scoop. I cannot imagine our family without you. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">love always, your mama.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">************</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">....and of course, some more pictures. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">for funnsies...both kids at 6 months:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjNp78G3CdnNmYjytmcXFFjfTWTZ7xoBdXIzeOf3TaFTrCPWGjf9JDy_TEB21LzFnXRj0YFDcrcA0uMk2N_I4a1eePmRx0sy3iOTo7a8hCQBQc04CZel44c-4Hu3xBP5QXP409ZGm2-sI/s1600/Molly%2526Cooper+-+6mo+comparison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjNp78G3CdnNmYjytmcXFFjfTWTZ7xoBdXIzeOf3TaFTrCPWGjf9JDy_TEB21LzFnXRj0YFDcrcA0uMk2N_I4a1eePmRx0sy3iOTo7a8hCQBQc04CZel44c-4Hu3xBP5QXP409ZGm2-sI/s640/Molly%2526Cooper+-+6mo+comparison.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-74436994884195617232013-06-26T08:46:00.000-04:002013-06-26T08:46:28.428-04:00Stand fast.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">truth. buy this print <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/127777033/a-little-bit-of-coffee-and-a-whole-lot?ref=col_view">here</a>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Sometimes my morning time gets interrupted. Sometimes it's short, quick, and to the point. Other times I am able to take longer to bask in His presence (and sip a little more coffee). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">But the point is that <i>He is here</i>. In the thick of my mothering two young children. In the early mornings. In the sheer exhaustion. He is here. And He is <i>more</i> than enough for me.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I was reminded this morning in my <a href="http://shereadstruth.com/2013/06/18/1-peter-day-16/">She Reads Truth</a> study (I'm a bit behind) while reading Peter's closing of his first letter: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Stand fast in it</span> (referring to God's grace).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Stand fast in His grace, in His mercy, in His abundance of love. Remain in Him, and He will remain in me. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Apart from HIM, I can do nothing. (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%2015:5&version=NIV">here</a>)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So what does this <i>practically </i>look like for me? I'd love to share some of the things that work best for me. (And please know that I am still a work in progress, learning new things each day!) :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">*Morning quiet time. Like I said, long or short--it doesn't matter. Just spending time with Jesus, preparing my heart for the day. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">*Light a candle at the beginning of the day to remind yourself that you are representing the LIGHT OF THE WORLD to those in your household. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">*Put on some music and SING songs of worship! This always directs my heart to Jesus.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">*Being grateful. When I'm tempted to complain and grumble about difficulties of my day (or more realistically, that specific moment), I am trying to remember to take a few seconds and look for God's abundant blessings. It's really tough to complain while seeing God's amazingness all around me. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">*Get outside. A breath of fresh air is SO good for everyone in my household. A must to relieve the afternoon crankies.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">*Take a bath. I've never been much of a bath person until recently when I discovered how completely amazing it is to sit still in a a dark bathroom, candles lit, no kids, and just BE. Even if it's for 10 minutes. I've decided that for me, this needs to happen once a week. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">For a few more super ideas for how to stay refreshed and connected to Jesus, please see </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2013/01/life-plan-day-planner-sanity-manifesto-printable/">this post</a>. And be sure to read her story about falling FORWARD. I just love this analogy!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><br /></span>amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-175940325483621288.post-47079354030652139852013-06-15T08:05:00.000-04:002013-06-15T08:05:08.174-04:00SIX AM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I know 6am might be a normal wake-up time for some, but for me, it's super early. You see, Molly was the type of baby to sleep in until at least 8 or 8:30. Even if I woke up at 7, that gave me plenty of coffee and Jesus time before she woke up.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">But this little guy?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's 6am. Sometimes 5:30.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Awake and kickin. Kicking my tail, that is. *grin*</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">For about the past couple of weeks, it has been really frustrating to me. I've woke up grumpy, angry, and reeking of selfishness.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">But this morning, I woke up with a fresh perspective that I pray sticks with me. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This is a phase of life. <i>It will pass</i>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I hear too often:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The days are long, but the years are short.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And I want to soak this up. I don't want to look back on these years and remember wishing them away because certain moments are difficult. I want to cherish the good moments and let them outweigh the bad. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Maybe that's easier said than done, but heck, I'll try!</span></div>
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<br />amy Dhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02120281887578333907noreply@blogger.com2