H is for Heidi

He is Risen!

2009-04-12T20:25:00.007-04:00

This morning we awoke to Resurrection Day! Jesus is alive! The girls were very excited...daddy read the Resurrection story out of the Bible to them, they looked in their Easter baskets to see what the Easter Bunny left behind, and went out in our yard to find all the eggs he had hid for them! Then it was time to get on our dresses for church to worship our Lord! Jesus is what it is all about!

Emily and her basket of goodies

Ansley and her basket

(Paisley was still sleeping at this point...I think she was still worn out from yesterday's festivities!)

Ansley in our yard finding the hidden eggs

Emily

After church we headed to the Hammock to take some pictures and then we headed home for some rest and to enjoy the rest of the day!

Look Who's Learning to Sit???

2009-04-11T21:49:00.003-04:00

Dying Eggs, Finding Eggs, and The Easter Bunny!

2009-04-11T21:22:00.010-04:00

This week we dyed our eggs pretty colors of green, blue, pink, and yellow...the girls were very excited to do this fun tradition again:-)

This morning our church held an egg hunt for the little ones...the girls had a blast! Last year they were so shy and didn't want to go out on the field alone. Whoa...this year they knew exactly what to do...watch out!

My family

Cristy and I

The egg hunters and I

Cristy and I with our girls...5 girls total under the age of 6!

Paisley enjoying the view from Daddy's shoulders

Emily and Ansley checking out the goodies they found!

Chloe', Emily, and Ansley

Emily huntin'

Ansley huntin'

Paisley's first egg hunt...she wasn't to sure about all this!

She fills her basket out well!

My three adorable girls!

After the hunt we came home for some lunch and then we headed to Henscratch for some pics with the Easter Bunny. We invited grandma to go with us...then we had some yummy strawberry shakes and sundaes. Thank you Grandma!

Ansley was very interested in the bunny this year. When she was little she didn't want anything to do with him!

Best I could get with all three girls...I don't think the bunny's lap is big enough!

Happy 6 Months Paisley!

2009-04-06T09:59:00.006-04:00

Paisley is 6 months today! She is growing daily (as you can see with those chunky thighs!). I have no idea how much she weighs-she goes for her 6 month check up in a couple of weeks. She also got her first tooth yesterday:-) She is always full of smiles for us and loves to play with her sisters:-) She loves to roll both ways but refuses to sit on her own! Everytime we "practice" she throws her back to go in the reclining position..she wants to lay on her back to flip to her tummy so she can attempt to scoot around. Oh well, I know eventually she'll get it but maybe the crawling will come first...watch out! LOL

Having Fun at the Children's Museum

2009-04-06T09:57:00.004-04:00

Last week the girls and I headed to the Children's Museum to meet our friends. Jody and Andrea and their children were there for fun to be had:-) We all had a great time!

Ansley, Emily, Alex, and Madeline

(Spiderman was saving the princesses)

Q and U Wedding

2009-03-29T21:04:00.005-04:00

On Friday morning we had the pleasure to attend Emily's Q and U Wedding at her preschool. This is where the letter Q marries U since they always come together in words. The girls were the letter Q and the boys were the letter U. Emily was so excited to get dressed up.

Here she is walking down the aisle...

Emily with her adorable groom Peyton. Soooo cute!
A reception followed with cake and dancing:-) Here is her fan club-daddy, Paisley, Grandma, me, Ansley, Emily, and Mam-ma
Emily enjoying her cake:-)

What made my day was when she told me that when she gets married "for real" she is going to live with me:-) Oh if it only stayed that way...

Running on Fumes...

2009-03-29T20:46:00.002-04:00

Last week after dropping Emily off at preschool, I was driving along headed to the gas station (or so I thought!) when all of a sudden my car shuts off and decides to use the last drop before I get to my destination! I have never done this before so I was completely surprised when I tried to pull my car over into someone's driveway to get off the road and realized I did not have any power steering! I had to sorta glide into their yard...not fun at all! I then proceeded to call my hubby and see what I should do...LOL! He was home with Ansley and Paisley with no car seats. He then called our friend Elgin to see if he would bring me some gas to get me to a gas station. Thankfully Elgin was sweet enough to take time out to do that for me!
As I was driving home after filling my car up I was reminded of how important it is to NOT "run on fumes" in spending time with Jesus and His Word. I want to be totally full of His love, kindness, patience, kindness, etc. (Gal. 5:22-23) I will only be able to stay full of these if I spend time with Him and read my Bible daily. As Christians we can get so busy that we fail to stop at "the gas station" and fill up...I am guilty of doing this with my car but do not want to do this in my Christian walk.
I will definitely be more careful now of watching how long I'm on E and I will also make sure I am spending time with Jesus each day. I need Him tremendously in my life!
Thank you to Elgin, Kip, Jody, and Heidi for making sure I was good to go:-) I appreciate you!

Girlfriends:-)

2009-03-29T20:41:00.003-04:00

Last Wednesday morning the girls and I headed over to my friend Cristy's house for some coffe and playtime. Then it was time to pick up our older two daughters from school and head to McDonald's for lunch. The girls were still full of energy after eating so we decided to take them to the church playground. They had a blast!

KaCee, Ansley, and Paisley

Thank you Cristy for having us over...nothing like a cup of coffe and good 'ol friendship:-) I enjoyed our time together!

New Dresses and a Visit from Aunt Steph

2009-03-29T20:34:00.004-04:00

Last Tuesday we had a visit from my sister in law Steph. We had a great time hanging out with her. She also bought Emily and Ansley these adorable knot dresses. Her friend is making them and has an account on etsy. They are called knot dresses and grow with your child for quite awhile. They knot at the top instead of having a button. You can also pick out your pattern of choice. They are sooo cute! Go to www.etsy.com and then type in Sweet Pea Knot Dresses to locate them.

Emily and Ansley modeling the dresses!

Thank you Aunt Steph for a great day! We love you!

Jumpin' in the Jumperoo

2009-03-29T20:31:00.002-04:00

Paisley loves to jump in her Jumperoo and play with the toys on it. She is finding her voice so she squeals with delight as she goes up and down!

At the Playground with Friends!

2009-03-04T16:09:00.004-05:00

On Wednesdays after I pick Emily up from school we head to the McDonald's drive thru and then to our church's playground for a picnic. Today we invited our friends Lori and her three daughters Amber, Ashley, and Abby to join us. Here are the four older girls being silly on the swings! (My two have their heads hanging upside down!)

Wednesday Brunch

2009-03-04T16:03:00.003-05:00

On Wednesday mornings for the past month my friends Jenny, Kitty, and I get together for brunch. We all bring something yummy to eat and visit with each other. All three of us had baby girls within 10 weeks of each other so it is fun to watch the girls grow and play. Jenny's baby is far left, Paisley in the center bouncy seat, and Kitty's little girl is in the swing. The girls were very content when I took this pic so I didn't want to disturb them by moving them closer!

We might need a bigger bathtub...

2009-03-03T19:53:00.002-05:00

The girls having fun in the tub!

Happy Birthday Ansley!

2009-02-28T19:47:00.011-05:00

Today was my little Ansley's birthday. It's so hard to believe that 4 years ago I was induced to have a beautiful 7lb. 12 oz. girl! Ansley has definitely blessed us with laughs! She is always ready to be the "cheese" and she has the most adorable dimples to go along with her smile:-) Last night the cousins had a slumber party and this morning they were up at 6:30am ready to party! We had her party at the bowling alley and she had tons of fun! We also celebrated Andrew's birthday with the family today. She wanted a Barbie Princess Diamond Castle party. (Andrew doesn't get much say in the matter...LOL!)

The birthday princess

Paisley eating her own lunch:-)

Ansley got a spare her first round!

Daddy and Emily

My niece Kylie

GG and Aunt Judy

Andrew and my dad

Proud mommy

Aunt BB and Anlsey

Sister Hugs

Mema keeping Paisley entertained while we bowled

Sarah and my mom

Daddy and Ansley

Uncle Frank and Dad

Aunt Vicki, Mam-ma, Ansley, Emily, Andrew, and Kylie

Daddy being silly with the girls

The whole gang in the party room (minus Andrew and Aunt Vicki taking the pics)

Time to open presents!

Andrew and Ansley always request to have chocolate cake with chocolate icing. The girls always want to help make it too. So this is what we came up with...of course we had to add pink little flowers to go along with the Barbie princess theme!

My sisters...what would I do without them????

Happy Birthday Ansley! We love you!

Happy Birthday Andrew! We love you too:-)

Happy Birthday!

2009-02-27T17:09:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was my hubby's birthday along with our friend Kip. Each year we try to get together for their birthdays and do something special. Well this year our friends Elgin and Jane wanted to take us to the Blue Man Show and stay the night in a hotel afterwards. The guys went up early for a round of golf. The girls met up at Target for shopping and enjoyed some Starbucks too:-) After that we all met up at the hotel to get ready for dinner and the show. We stayed at a very nice 3 bedroom/2 bath suite. We ate at the Texas de Brazil...we all left feeling stuffed! Here are some pics from the evening!

Andrew and I

Kip and Cristy

Elgin and Jane

Andrew playing around with the camera...cheesy me!

The whole gang

Birthday Boys-Kip and Andrew

Cristy and I with a "Blue Man"
The show was very odd but so entertaining...those eyes were so intense all the time!

Thank you Elgin and Jane for such a great idea! We really enjoyed ourselves...until next time!

Paisley's 4 Month Pics

2009-02-19T20:54:00.004-05:00

Yesterday Paisley had her little 4 month photo shoot with Sarah Beth. She came over after nap time and took some cute ones out in the yard. Here are a few that Sarah just emailed me to give me a sneak peek...I thought I would share them:-) Sarah Beth has her own photography website http://www.sarahsandel.com/

Thanks Sarah Beth for a job well done and the yummy coffee:-)

Daddy Daughter Pictures are Up

2009-02-19T10:43:00.004-05:00

Go to www.impressivepix.com and view the daddy daughter pics. Thank you ladies for taking such awesome pictures of the evening!

Surprise Dinner Guests:-)

2009-02-17T22:19:00.004-05:00

Tonight we decided to go to the Olive Garden for dinner and use one of our gift cards. As we were getting seated, our friends Elgin and Jane walked in so they decided to join us. Now I must say that was a brave decision on their part since we had all three girls with us...not what I would call a romantic, quiet date night...LOL! We had a great time and thank you Elgin and Jane for dinner (they wouldn't let us use our gift card). Soooooo next time it's on us!

Just Finished Reading...

2009-02-16T21:32:00.005-05:00

and I highly recommend it! I enjoyed this book and I know you will too:-)

A Day at the Park

2009-02-14T21:32:00.004-05:00

The weather was so nice out today that my sister and I decided to take the kids to our state park which happens to be right next door to us:-) We had a great time enjoying the outdoors and it wore the kiddos out!

Ansley throwing a frisbee

The girls chasing each other

Paisley taking a ride in a "big girl" swing-she really liked it. She even starting falling asleep in it!

Kylie is our social bug but today she met her match...this little boy was very intrigued by her and kept following her around wanting to hold her hand and put his arm around her. She wasn't to sure about this...

Cousins, cousins, and more cousins!

2009-02-14T21:25:00.005-05:00

Last night some of my cousins came to visit us from out of state. We don't get to see them very often but it was nice catching up and spending some time together. They fly back home on Sunday.

Eric, Trey, my mom and dad

Mom, Trey, Dad

Mom, Brooke, Dad

Trey and Andrew

Sarah, Brooke, Heidi

All the cousins (except Paisley) she was already asleep!

Daddy-Daughter Princess Ball

2009-02-14T21:12:00.007-05:00

Last night our church hosted a daddy-daughter princess ball. Our three princesses had their daddy for a date. It was a night of dancing, food, and fun! Andrew asked my niece if she would like to come along so Kylie came too.

Here are some pics from the evening...they looked beautiful!

Emily, Kylie, Ansley

Sarah and Kylie

Daddy and his three princesses

Right before loading up in the car...

at the ball

even though Paisley can't dance yet she was having a great time:-)

Pure silliness!

Mema lives next door to the reception hall so they stopped by to say hi!

After the big event this is what I found...

Kylie, Emily, and Ansley exhuasted from the night!

So much for staying up all night for a slumber party...LOL!

Happy Valentine's Day Andrew!

2009-02-12T22:45:00.004-05:00

After going to MOPS this morning and then having to take my cat Samuel to the vet (found out he has another urinary tract infection so he is staying the night so dr. can observe him) ...Andrew and I went out for our Valentine date tonight. We had a great time eating dinner and then seeing a movie. The pic of us is after our date and a long day...can you tell???? Ha! Thank you Andrew and I love you bunches!

My House is Clean!

2009-02-11T21:12:00.004-05:00

I am so very grateful that my house is clean! I came home to a house smelling so fresh:-) I can't take credit for it however I wanted to say a huge thank you to Mrs. Tammy for cleaning my house. She attends our church and has started up a cleaning business. She wants to clean my house for FREE every week...can you believe that??? At first I said no but she insisted...so I am getting the word out for her...go to www.maid-4u.com and contact her if you need some cleaning done. She did an amazing job so I highly recommend her! Let me know if you have any questions!

PACE

2009-02-10T14:32:00.005-05:00

When I was in college I used to work for a Christian counselor...to say the least I learned a lot from her while working there. Here is one quick and easy exercise we can do each morning when we wake up and our feet hit the floor...

P-Praise God! Thank Him for at least one thing-attitude of gratitude!

A-Accept the Holy Spirit We need the Fruit of the Spirit to make it through each day and we can only exemplify these with the help of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23)

C-Control! Remind yourself: "I can only control my own attitude and actions. I have no control over the attitude and actions of others."

E-Expectation-Say "I am going to have a great day!" (no matter what happens-keep a positive outlook on life)

This has helped me out tremendously! My days can get very hectic but when I start out with Jesus each morning I know He has it all under control! Life is a journey and we have to PACE ourselves:-)

I am an Official Facebook User!

2009-02-09T14:23:00.003-05:00

I have just joined the world of Facebook! However I cancelled my account with Myspace...got bored with it:-) Find me on FB so I can keep up with you!

Letter to Myself (from one of my blogger friends)

2009-02-08T20:21:00.003-05:00

This is a letter from a blogger friend of mine who is a pastor's wife in another state with four daughters. All four are now in elementary school but she has given me great advice on being a mommy to three little girls under the age of 5. Here is a cute letter she wrote to herself when her babies were all at home...oh how I can relate to so many...LOL! When my head hits the pillow at night I am reminded of how blessed I am to have a faithful husband who loves me for who God made me to be and my three little princesses who keep me very busy:-)
Enjoy!!

Dear Self (exhausted and blessed momma of tiny ones),

I'm going to write this letter to you in bullet-style because I know that having four kids in four and a half years has left you swamped, overwhelmed, and unable to read anything that is longer than three sentences in a row.

*When everyone says, "It goes by so fast," is oh-so-true.

*It goes by so fast.

*Don't wish it away; enjoy it.

*Because it goes by fast.

*Buy more footie pajamas for the kids.

*Use a pizza cutter to slice your pancakes and waffles and grilled cheese. You'll save yourself about a week of your life if you do that.

*It might take you years to believe this, but the world does NOT stop spinning if your house is a mess.

*When you are so overwhelmed by laundry that you cry when you see the laundry room, take it all to the laundromat and knock it out in two hours.

*Mealtimes aren't worth big battles, but it is worth it to make the rule they have to try two bites of everything. Your kids will end up being decent eaters, even adventurous at times.

*When you are so overwhelmed and feel defeated constantly and want to stay in bed for hours and choose ugly clogs that don't match anything because thinking about tying your shoes seems like too much, tell your husband, mentor, or doctor. You need some help.

*Read "Tender Mercy for a Mother's Soul" before you get to that point.

*Go ahead and buy those matching dresses from Old Navy. Turns out in a few years they won't think it is so fun to be matchy-matchy.

*Don't ever feel guilty for taking a nap. I know you will feel guilty, and you will beat yourself up for it, but you are WISE to rest when you can.

*Leave Bibles out all over the house where you can read a verse or two in stolen moments. There will be seasons where you can do in-depth Bible studies and Greek translations and word studies, but this is not it, and that is ok.

*On the days you don't think you can survive until naptime, remind yourself there will come a day when YOU get to take a nap while the kids unload the dishwasher, vacuum the living room, and gather all the trash.

*Don't bother washing that sippy cup you found under the couch after a week. Don't even open it. Throw it away immediately.

*Video tape them more often. You're going to forget how Brynne calls everyone "dems" and how Shelby talks in what sounds like a Slavic language.

*Having only one car, ugly clothes, used furniture, and eating generic brands is SO worth it to stay home with those babies.

*Remember that you and Scott are a team, and not opponents.

*Don't ever try peanut-butter filled Oreos if you want to stay a size 8.

*Swap days with a friend for a break, or sell plasma in order to afford a babysitter or mom's day out program. And don't feel guilty about it.

*Sign your kids up for one activity so they have a different adult to listen to, but don't do more than one. There will be time for that later. And don't feel guilty about it.

*Don't knock homeschooling until you've tried it. You're going to LOVE it.

*Don't knock public school until you've tried it. You're going to LOVE it.

*Use sleeping bags when you are potty training. No sheets to change after an accident.

*Write down their first words and funny phrases. Even the last child. Because it is going to stink when you have to make it up.

*When you do mess up, let them hear you apologize. You'll have plenty of opportunities, and they forgive so quickly and fully it will help you understand God's forgiveness.

*You are doing such a good job. I know it feels like you are failing in a hundred ways, but you aren't. You are loving them, showing them God, and teaching them about His world. They are going to turn into amazing kids.

*Enjoy the ride. You are one blessed girl

I Got Tagged!

2009-02-06T19:35:00.006-05:00

Cristy and Erin S. have tagged me in this fun game of going to your My Pictures section, open the sixth folder up, and post the 6th picture in it. Well, I went to my sixth folder to find but only 4 pictures so I went to my seventh folder and found picture number 6.

This is a picture of Ansley at Sea World getting ready to feed the sea lions with a stinky fish. Her outfit cracks me up!

To keep the game going, I tag my 3 blogging buddies Tracy, Cari, and Erin Y.
Have fun!

Paisley is 4 months!

2009-02-06T19:23:00.003-05:00

Paisley had to go to the doctor today for her 4 month check up. She weighs 16.5 pounds and is 25.5 inches long! Dr. D was very proud of her growth and milestones and says she can start eating cereal and then some veggies and fruit:-) She is ready to chow down...LOL!

Reading to Lil' Sis

2009-02-04T20:17:00.001-05:00

Daily Video Devo - Enjoy Life Now - Day 6 and 7

2009-02-01T17:45:00.003-05:00

Day 6 - http://app.talkfusion.com/fusion2/view.asp?MzY0MTQ4_2473293

Day 7 - http://app.talkfusion.com/fusion2/view.asp?MzY0MTUw_2473293

Next week's theme - Love God and Love People - Forgiving and Refreshing One Another
To sign up for Andrew's daily video devo please email andrewkatsanis@comcast.net to get it in your email every morning!

Good Morning!

2009-01-31T11:06:00.002-05:00

Enjoy Life Now - Day 5 of 7 - To subscribe for the email Devo...email andrewkatsanis@comcast.net

2009-01-30T10:35:00.002-05:00

http://app.talkfusion.com/fusion2/view.asp?MzY0MTQ3_2473294

Thankful Thursdays

2009-01-29T21:10:00.003-05:00

Wow! I haven't done one of these in a long time...

1. God's mercies that are new every morning!
2. Life is a faith journey that I don't have to be perfect in-that's why I have Jesus!
3. Getting a haircut tonight from one of my girlfriends that is in hair school:-) She did a great job!
4. Andrew taking care of all 3 girls and putting them to bed so I could get this accomplished
5. My mother in law's homemade split pea soup-enjoying it for lunch this week!
6. My time with Emily when the two of us drive to preschool each morning.
7. Ansley wearing her Gator cheerleading outfit all the time-so cute
8. Paisley's chunky thighs-could just eat them up!
9. A great MOPS leadership team meeting this morning:-)
10. Strawberries coming back in season-yummy!

Enjoy Life Now - Part 4 Daily Video Devo's by Andrew Katsanis

2009-01-29T18:26:00.003-05:00

Enjoy Life Now-Part 3-Attitude Check

2009-01-28T08:46:00.001-05:00

http://app.talkfusion.com/fusion2/view.asp?MzY0MTQz_2473294

Paisley and Her Tongue

2009-01-27T20:42:00.003-05:00

As most of you know Paisley was born tongue-tied. She is very thankful for her friend Andrea because now she can move it all around. However, she did not enjoy the procedure of getting it clipped! Here are some pics of Paisley showing off her tongue...

A Steal of a Deal!

2009-01-27T20:29:00.005-05:00

I just had to share the bargain I purchased this past weekend...my sister and I walked into Michael's browsing around and found these awesome lighted Christmas trees marked down 90%! Orginally they were $89.99 and we bought them for a whopping $8.99! They are so pretty and will look great by my front door next Christmas. I am never much of an early bird shopper after the holidays so I couldn't believe I found something so good for such a great price! Now on the otherhand, it was quite a site seeing Sarah and I with the four girls and three of these trees loading up in my car. We looked like a gypsy wagon...LOL! Thankfully she only lives about 5 minutes away:-) Whenever I find a steal of a deal it always makes me feel so proud...LOL!

Andrew's Daily Devotional...Sign Up!

2009-01-25T21:56:00.003-05:00

Please sign up for my hubby's new daily devotional via email. Subscribe by emailing andrewkatsanis@comcast.net and give him your name. It is really neat because it is by video! Check it out!!!

Visit to Aunt Sarah's House

2009-01-25T21:45:00.004-05:00

This past weekend Andrew had to go out of town so the girls and I packed up and headed over to my sister's house. We had a great time going shopping, eating out, and of course playing at the Family Fun Center. (Even Daddy stayed for the fun on that one!) Thanks Sarah for a great weekend!

Sarah, Me, and AnsleySilly Sisters
Daddy and Emily going down the huge slide!

Ansley, Kylie, and Emily having a blast

Paisley hanging out in her stroller...she can't wait to keep up with her big sisters!

Ansley

Paisley Getting Ready for Church

2009-01-25T21:42:00.002-05:00

Playing Outside:-)

2009-01-25T21:41:00.004-05:00

2009-01-25T21:41:00.001-05:00

Being Creative Outside with our Crafts

2009-01-25T21:37:00.004-05:00

Emily and Ansley love to do creative activities so Aunt BB found these fun crafts and paintings to do...they did a great job! Thanks Aunt BB!

Night Out with Friends

2009-01-25T21:19:00.003-05:00

Last weekend we were able to get away and spend some time with our friends Richie and Kristin. We ate at Carabba's and had a lot of fun!

My Three Girls!

2009-01-25T21:15:00.004-05:00

Paisley with Felicity and Mia (American Girl Dolls)

Paisley and Ansley

Paisley and Emily

Watch out for that double chin!!

Emily being silly:-)

Merry Christmas from our Family to Yours!

2008-12-23T21:20:00.004-05:00

I pray you have a blessed Christmas and may we always remember how loved we are by Jesus!

My family

3 Sisters

Paisley Hope

Ansley Faith

Emily Grace

My hubby and I

Annual Picture with Santa

2008-12-07T14:59:00.002-05:00

Our Christmas Parade

2008-12-07T14:56:00.002-05:00

My Silly Ansley

2008-12-07T14:52:00.001-05:00

Paisley is Growing Fast!

2008-12-07T14:46:00.004-05:00

Paisley is now 2 months old!

Proud Big Sisters

2008-12-07T14:39:00.004-05:00

Emily's Thanksgiving Program

2008-12-07T14:32:00.004-05:00

Trying to get caught up on my blogging...as you can see. Emily was such a cute little pilgrim and did an awesome job singing her songs. Her fan club was very proud of her!!!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-11-07T15:06:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was my birthday and I had a birthday wish come true:-) For years (since 6th grade), I have enjoyed a contemporary Christian artist named Michael W. Smith. I used to even have a crush on him and Andrew still teases me that I do-I must say he has aged well...LOL! I have bought every CD and book that he has had published. Well, it so happened that he was coming to our county to sing on-you guessed it!- my birthday:-) I was so excited to get to go and he also brought along Steven Curtis Chapman. Double the excitement! Then my friend Jamie who headed up the event gave us two backstage passes for my birthday so I could finally meet this awesome guy in person! Andrew also took me on a birthday date to dinner beforehand which was so nice because we haven't had one since Paisley was born a month ago. I had a blast! My birthday was very special this year!

Me with my three girls before leaving-such cuties!

Thank you to my mom and dad who came up and watched all three for me so I could have this opportunity!

Andrew, MWS, and Me
Thank you Jamie for making it happen!

MWS and Steven

Bathtime!

2008-11-04T08:53:00.004-05:00

Paisley is starting to enjoy her bathtime now. I can't believe she turned 4 weeks yesterday! She is really starting to fill out!

Beauty and the Beast

2008-11-04T08:45:00.003-05:00

On Sunday afternoon we went to the "Beauty and the Beast" play at our local theatre. It was a great show and I recommend it to anyone! They served the girls little cookies and snacks with a drink. Emily, Ansley, and Paisley dressed up in their Belle dresses too:-) Thank you to my mother in law who bought us our tickets-we all had a super time!

Emily

Two of my princesses

Ansley and Emily with Mam-ma

Ansley enjoying the snacks

Paisley all dressed up in her Belle dress

Fall Festivities

2008-11-01T07:17:00.009-04:00

I don't have lots of time to write but I thought I would post some pics of the last couple of days-carving pumpkins, trick or treating with Emily's class, etc.

Emily cleaning out her pumpkin

Ansley hard at work

Ansley wanted to be a cheerleader this year

Emily was Belle

Finishing a toe touch:-)

Emily's two good friends in her class, Anna and Madeline

Emily's class

Sisters!

Paisley was our little ballerina

My mom and her 3 granddaughters

Emily and Ansley with their cousin Kylie

Paisley showing off her ballerina costume

Headed to lunch!!

Cute Pics of My 3 Precious Girls

2008-10-28T15:57:00.002-04:00

Bobbing for Apples

2008-10-23T21:45:00.003-04:00

A few days ago Emily and Ansley decided they wanted to bob for apples so we headed outside for some fun! They finally have mastered the skill and are quite proud of theirselves! Note Ansley who had to wear goggles because she never likes getting water in her eyes:-)

Two Weeks Old

2008-10-22T14:58:00.003-04:00

Paisley turned two weeks old on Monday (her due date). She is striking a pose!

Pumpkin Patch Pickin'

2008-10-22T14:49:00.006-04:00

Today at Emily's preschool they had a pumpkin patch for all the children. She was very excited! We love pumpkins! Here are a few pics from the morning:

Paisley Hope is here!!!

2008-10-10T08:42:00.003-04:00

Paisley Hope arrived Monday, October 6th at 4:53pm. She weighed 7lb. 4oz., 20 in. long. She came out with a full head of hair and ready to eat! We got home on Wednesday and now are adjusting to a newborn in the house again. We are so blessed! I have posted a few pics to share with you for now-enjoy!!!

Paisley Hope in the hospital (after a bath!)

Proud big sisters-Emily and Ansley
Proud daddy!
Going home!!!
Paisley in her crib snoozing the day away:-)

Sea World!

2008-10-04T08:00:00.007-04:00

Yesterday I wanted to do something special for the girls before little Paisley arrives on Monday. Last May we had bought the Sea World passes and had not been back. They really enjoyed it when we went last time so we thought this would be a great idea. We decided that after we picked Emily up from preschool we would head up to see Shamu! They were so excited to get there! The weather was beautiful even for a pregnant momma:-)

Emily and Ansley posing once inside the park

(you'll see Emily striking a pose for almost every pic and Ansley just wanted to wear her bathing suit throughout the park-it got to be quite funny!)

Going to our first show

Feeding the sea lions

Ewww....stinky fish!

Off to the manatees
Shamu was the last show of the day-one of our favorites!

Daddy and his girls
Mommy and her girls
Emily and Ansley wanted to be in the splash zone so here we are ready to get soaked! I thought maybe I should put on my suit but then again I might have scared Shamu...LOL!

We had a great time and now are preparing for Monday when a new little princess joins our family:-)

Good News!!!

2008-10-01T14:30:00.002-04:00

This morning I went back to the dr. to see if I had made any progress from Friday. I am now dilated and my dr. was very impressed with the progress I have made! I was so excited! We decided that I will be induced on Monday morning:-) I will be 38 weeks on that day. Please keep us in your prayers that everything goes smoothly for the both of us! Thank you again to all who have checked on me these last few days and for all of your prayers!!!

Paisley Hope's Update

2008-09-27T07:05:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I went to my next check up to see how Paisley and I are progressing with this pregnancy. I had an ultrasound done first to see how big she is getting...she is in the 6 lb. range, head down, and I still have enough amniotic fluid. I was very pleased with her report! Then it was my turn...my doctor checked me to see how far I have dilated or effaced and NOTHING!!! If I had shown some progress I would have a date for next week ready to go so I was very disappointed:-( Anyways, my doctor wants me to come back this Wednesday (that is the next time she'll be in the office seeing patients) and we are hoping to see signs of progress. I turn 37 weeks on Monday so hopefully after Wednesday there will be a date! She wants to give it a few more days to see what happens. Then we'll go from there... Please pray that my body makes some progress before Wednesday!

My MOPS Surprise Baby Shower

2008-09-25T20:32:00.004-04:00

This morning I woke up to thinking I had a normal MOPS meeting to attend but I was in for quite a surprise. When I walked in the door I found them yelling "Surprise" and I looked up to find the room decorated in baby girl decorations. They were so sweet to think of Paisley and bless the both of us with so many wonderful gifts and a great time. Thank you so much!!!!

The MOPS crew

They also invited my mom to come in and do a devotion for the mommies-thank you mom!
Gifts for Paisley
As most of you know I am not a scrapbooker or very crafty so the girls each made me a page to go in this scrapbook they had purchased for me. It was such a great idea because now all I have to do is place the pictures on them. It turned out so cute!
Maybe if I laugh really hard I'll go into labor...LOL!

My mom and I

Paisley's Stock of Diapers

2008-09-25T20:28:00.002-04:00

I forgot to show all of the diapers and wipes Paisley has received for gifts (which is exactly what she needed!). Her closet does not look organized but I promise it is...the pics do not do this justice because I had to put packs in all the nooks and crannies to get it all to fit.

Emily, Ansley, and Paisley's bedrooms:-)

2008-09-25T09:09:00.004-04:00

I have finally finished the girls' rooms so here are some pics for those that have been wanting to see them:-) I am very pleased with how they turned out and the girls are very excited about there new look of a bedroom!

Paisley's nursery is in pink/green

Emily and Ansley are sharing a room now and they wanted pink/purple

Pumpkin Spice Lattes...Yummy:-)

2008-09-25T09:04:00.003-04:00

I just love Fall...it is my favorite season. I think anything with pumpkin in it is delicious so I always look forward to the coffee shops coming out with their pumpkin flavor:-) This past Tuesday my friend Jody bought me a pumpkin spice latte and it tasted so yummy. Thank you Jody for such a tasty treat and the time to catch up on life. Love ya girlie!

Andrew's New Bed Buddy

2008-09-24T20:53:00.004-04:00

Forgive me for not taking pictures of this but please remember it was 1:45 in the morning when all of this took place!
Last night I woke up to go the bathroom again-can't remember the last time I had a full night's sleep thanks to my bladder...LOL!
I crawled back into bed and I kept hearing this banging noise on Andrew's side of the bed. At first (because I am such a scaredy cat at night I thought someone must be breaking into our house!) but then I realized it must be a frog jumping on the window from outside. A few minutes passes and then I start hearing the cord on our mini-blinds rattling against the wall. By now I know whatever is making the sound is coming from the inside. My mind started racing-wonder if its a snake or a frog??? I know how Andrew does NOT like either and I knew he would scream like a girl if he woke up to a frog jumping on his face so I decided to do the kind thing and wake him up. Let's just say he was not happy with me at all waking him up at 1:45 in the morning telling him I thought there was a frog on the window next to him. I think he thought I was talking in my sleep or those crazy pregnancy hormones once again have taken over his wife...LOL! Finally with much convincing he gets up and turns on the light...he looks behind his blinds and what do you know but a BIG toad was next to him! Andrew owes me big for saving his life...LOL! The toad was caught and taken outside to go find a new bed buddy:-)
(Tracy I thought of you when the paper cup and plate were brought out...hehe)

New Sod

2008-09-24T20:46:00.003-04:00

Recently we had new sod laid in two of our flower (or should I say weed) beds. The couple that owned this house before us loved to garden. But as I have posted before that is not my specialty so I had had enough of those ugly weeds and decided I wanted to sod the one by our driveway and down by our mailbox! I think it looks much better! It makes me so happy to look out there and see grass and not weeds:-)

Ansley helping water the new sod

Great Quote!

2008-09-07T21:05:00.001-04:00

"In the end everything will be all right, nothing can harm you permanently; no loss is lasting, no defeat more than transitory, no disappointment is conclusive. Suffering, failure, loneliness, sorrow, discouragement and death will be part of your journey, but the kingdom of God will conquer all of these horrors. No evil can resist grace forever."

-Brennan Manning, The Ragamuffin Gospel

Mmm mmmm mmmm. Good stuff.

My Little Cowgirl!

2008-09-07T20:46:00.006-04:00

Emily received this cowgirl hat from her teacher at open house. She loves wearing it! She cracks me up everytime she puts it on!

Paisley Hope's Baby Shower

2008-09-07T20:32:00.004-04:00

Today my friends threw me a shower for Paisley at our church. The food was delicious and we were blessed with many gifts especially diapers:-) I reallly appreciate all their hard work they put forth to make it happen! Here are a few pics of the day...

Shawn and Me showing off our proud momma bellies-our due dates are a day apart and I look like I am having twins-ha!!

Shawn is having a boy and I'm having the girl (their first kiss!)
GG, Me, and Mema
Karen, Andrea, and Me
I recieved 3 diaper cakes-they all were so cute!
The girls had fun playing with their friend Chloe'
My mom, me, and Audrey (Sarah had not arrived yet when this pic was taken)
Thank you again for taking time out of your day to bless little Paisley with a shower. It was great!

Happy Grandparent's Day!

2008-09-07T20:26:00.003-04:00

On Friday Emily's preschool hosted a grandparents program. She was very excited to sing her 3 songs, decorate cookies with them, and give them their gifts that she had made. Grandma, Mam-ma, and Pa-pou were able to make it so she had a captive audience! I did not attend however I told my mom to take some pics while she was there. Here are a few to share...

Emily getting ready to sing with some of the classes

Mam-maw and Emily
Emily and Grandma
Mrs. Dawn (her teacher) and Emily

Emily's First Day of Preschool

2008-08-18T20:52:00.004-04:00

Emily started her first day of preschool and she had a fantastic time. I was so proud of her (and myself too) because we made it out of there with no tears. I have been praying all summer that God would place her with the teacher she needed and He sure did! I am very thankful that she has Mrs. Dawn for a teacher and I know they will have a great year together:-)

Here is Emily getting ready to walk out the door

Emily and her teacher, Mrs. Dawn

Update on Paisley Hope!

2008-08-16T22:09:00.003-04:00

Yesterday morning I had my 3-D ultrasound apt. to see little Paisley. She did such a good job and we got a lot of good pics of her. I wish I had a scanner so I could show them off but oh well-I'll probably be carrying them around in my purse! A few facts we learned at the apt:
She is already head down, in one of her pics you can see her foot up by her face, she is weighing 3lbs. 9 oz. (but you can give or take a pound on that little fact), her hearbeat was 144 hbm, I am well hydrated and I have more than enough amniotic fluid at this time, she is in the 57th percentile in growth for her age. I go back in two weeks! Thank you again for all the prayers-we got a great report!

Cheer Camp:-)

2008-08-16T21:59:00.004-04:00

This past week Emily and Ansley attended a local cheer camp. They went Monday through Friday from 9-3:00. I wasn't sure at first how they would do but they loved it! They learned cheers, a dance, and made crafts while they were there. On the last day all the cheerleaders performed for their parents. I was so proud of what they had learned and how hard they tried. Ansley even called out two of the cheers for her group all by herself. Mommy and Daddy took them to Dairy Queen afterwards for a treat:-)

Ansley going up in a pyramid

Ansley saying one of the cheers
Emily showing of her muscles in a cheer!
Both girls
Emily

My two little cheerleaders!

Ansley
Emily
Ansley
Both girls

Fun with Friends!

2008-08-16T21:55:00.004-04:00

Thursday night our friends Kip and Cristy invited us over for dinner. The girls had a great time playing with their friend Chloe' while us adults had fun catching up. I also enjoyed getting to hold KaCee (which I forgot to get a pic of)-I need practice holding babies again! Thank you guys for such a wonderful evening. We hope to do it again soon:-)

Ansley, Chloe', and Emily

Shopping with my Sister!

2008-08-11T21:29:00.003-04:00

This past Saturday the girls and I met my sister Audrey for some shopping! We had to pick up some school supplies, new shoes, etc. We had intentions orginally to go to My Girlfriend's Kitchen and make some meals for the month. Then I recieved an email from the owners saying they had switched their business name to My Covert Kitchen www.mycovertkitchen.com and they were assembling your meals for FREE this month!!! Woohoo! No preparing for us means more shopping time and it allowed the girls to be able to go and see their Aunt BB. All you have to do is call your order in and they will prepare it for you. Time is running out so call soon if you are interested!

Emily, Aunt BB, and Ansley taking a break from shopping!

Ansley resting while mommy shops
We had a great time Aunt BB! We love you and miss you bunches!!!

Let the Games Begin...

2008-08-07T14:22:00.004-04:00

The Olympics are quickly approaching us and Andrew and I enjoy watching all the athletes compete. My favorite is of course the swimming with diving and gymnastics following right behind. Well at our house for the past month Emily and Ansley have been addicted to the game Bible Memory. It's just like the Memory game I played when I was a little girl but the cards show bible characters on them. They ask to play this at least twice a day to see who can win. The four of us get very competitive and I must say I honestly get beat by my 5 and 3 year old. Right now I can blame it on those pregnancy hormones but I don't know if that really is the problem. It's amazing how much they remember and they get better each time! Andrew and I sit there in shock! So although I am not in the Olympics I feel like I am constant training for my brain...LOL!

The actual game we play

Emily showing off her "matches" that she won
Ansley hoping that she won!

The Mystery of the Poop!

2008-08-05T20:43:00.002-04:00

First of all, I wanted to let anyone reading this know that I spared you a picture of this gross mess and thankfully you can't smell it! Yesterday morning we had an air conditioner repair man come to our house to look at our unit. It has not been working properly for the last few days and that is not a good thing for a pregnant momma in the summer! He came to our front door and rang the doorbell to let me know he was there. I asked him if the garage was open already (Andrew had already left for the day and so I figured he had left it open) and he said yes so I told him just to go ahead and look at our problem. He came in a few times to check out the filters but I never had to go out in the garage...until he was leaving. The girls and I were leaving to run a few errands so I followed him out (which they have to order a part and when it gets here our air will be back to normal). As I step out into the garage this horrific smell reaches my nostrils! Then I look over and I see this enormous poop pile on Andrew's flipflop right under where the man had to work! I was soooo embarassed and apologized over and over that I had no idea! I was ready to throw up so I know he had to be sick over it since he was at our house for over an hour. When I got in the car I called Andrew right away asking him to come home and clean it for me. I didn't want to touch it with a ten foot pole especially being pregnant! I knew our dog didn't do it because she goes out on a leash. I knew our cat had not done it because he doesn't poop that big and has never done it in the garage! So who was this mystery pooper....a raccoon! We caught them in our garage stealing Samuel's (our cat) food! I just wonder if the repairman will be brave enough to come back when the part comes in or will he try to send another guy???? LOL!

Lunch with Nicole

2008-08-05T20:38:00.002-04:00

Today I went to lunch with my good friend Nicole. We have been wanting to get together all summer and finally managed it! Other than the waitress spilling a whole glass of tea on our table we had a great time! It was quite funny because when she set the glass down on the table it just broke in half and went everywhere! Thankfully we didn't get too wet:-) Nicole can always make me laugh:-) Thanks Nicole! Love ya!

Dinner and the Movies

2008-08-04T22:29:00.003-04:00

Last night Andrew and I went out for a date night. We had a great time eating dinner with each other and then we went to the movies to see "Mamma Mia". A couple of weeks ago I went with him to see the "Batman: The Dark Knight" so it was his turn to watch a movie with me...LOL! Thanks for a great night Andrew! I love you!!

Time with Tracy

2008-08-03T13:56:00.003-04:00

Last night after the birthday party I was excited to meet up with my friend Tracy and her family. Tracy and I met two years ago through MOPS and from there developed a special friendship. Well last June she and her husband moved back to Indiana. It hasn't been the same but I have gotten used to keeping up with her through email. This week I got an email from her saying she was coming to our state for vacation! She just had her 3rd baby two months ago! We had a great time catching up with each other and our children had fun playing.

Me and Tracy ( I can't believe I forgot a pic of her baby boy, Carter)

The four kids having art time:-)
I had a great time Tracy! Have fun on your vacation:-) Love and miss ya bunches!!!

Silly Saturday

2008-08-03T13:51:00.003-04:00

Andrew with his cherry earrings. Aren't they beautiful? The girls just thought daddy was so funny!

Do you remember Crush? Well we went to a birthday party of a man that turned 90 years old and they served that orange soda pop. The girls had never tried it before and thought it was quite tasty! I remember thinking that too when I was a little girl.

Emily enjoying her Crush
Ansley chugged it down in about 5 minutes-then had the burps!!

Great Book to Read!

2008-08-01T21:15:00.003-04:00

This summer I had a list of books that I wanted to read and well you know how that goes! I did finish one of the books on my list titled The Shack and I really recommend it to everyone! I don't want to give the whole plot away but it will make you see God's love in a whole new light. We sometimes find ourselves putting God in a box with our preconcieved ideas or unfortunately how we were taught and this book will break those thoughts! Click on www.theshackbook.com and get a copy or borrow mine:-) You have got to read it!!!

Our Family Beach Vacation:-)

2008-07-31T20:33:00.002-04:00

This past Sunday we were off to the beach! Emily and Ansley have been wanting to go all summer so we decided to take them to one of our favorite spots-Longboat Key! They were so excited to find out they were going and couldn't wait to get there. They had such a fun time finding seashells, coquinas, little crabs, and making sandcastles. Of course when you are at the beach the time seems to go soooo fast! The girls wanted to stay 60 days and I had to agree but it was time to come back to reality. Until next year...then there will be 3 little beach babes wading in the water! Enjoy the slideshow:-)

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Paisley's Update

2008-07-24T20:40:00.003-04:00

Well today was Paisley and my turn for a check up. Everything is going well-blood pressure is good, heartbeat is strong, belly is getting bigger...LOL! I will be 28 weeks this coming Monday! I am scheduled to go back in 3 weeks to have a 3D ultrasound. I am so excited to see her again:-) Thank you for all of your prayers-keep them coming!

Emily's 5 Year Check Up

2008-07-23T14:02:00.004-04:00

This morning I had to take Emily in for her 5 year old check up. She weighs 36 1/2 lbs. and is 42 in. tall. The doctor said she is below average in weight but he isn't concerned about it due to her small frame. She passed her eye and hearing test and also had to get a shot. Now she wasn't too happy about that but then they gave her a cookie so she felt much better:-) I can't believe Emily is 5 already! Where does time go????

Lunch with Darlene

2008-07-23T13:51:00.003-04:00

Tuesday for lunch I was so excited to meet up with my friend Darlene. We used to live down the street from each other when we moved into our first house after marriage. We then had our firstborns about a month apart so it was so nice to have someone so close that you could get together with! Through our many get togethers we grew closer in our friendship and I am very blessed to have Darlene as a friend. Now we don't even live in the same county so we rarely get to see each other! It was so nice to get to catch up with her in person! Darlene is a woman of God who has risen above some difficult situations and it's amazing to see how God has worked through her, is working through her, and how He will continue to do so! Thank you Darlene for lunch! I love ya girlie!

Blaine (her son), Darlene, Me, Ansley and Emily

Happy Birthday Richie!!

2008-07-22T08:40:00.003-04:00

A couple of days ago my friend Kristin called me to make some surprise plans for her hubby Richie's 30th birthday. She asked if Andrew and I would mind driving over for his 30th birthday. Richie happens to be Andrew's best friend that he roomed with for a little over a year. They share many memories but they don't get to see each other much due to living in different towns now. The night before he figured it out so he knew we were coming so he wanted to surprise us! Richie is a guy who cannot get embarassed and keeps you laughing the whole time usually at his expense! For example, we get to their house and ring the doorbell, then the door opens, and what do we see but Richie standing there with his arms wide open ready to hug us but might I add he was only wearing hot pink speedos! He is crazy!

The birthday boy Richie

Richie and his wife Kristin
Me and Andrew
The gang
Happy Birthday Richie!

We had a great time!

We love you both!

Lunch with Erin

2008-07-22T08:31:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I got a call from my friend Erin saying she was down visiting. I was so excited to see her-we have actually seen each 3 times in the last month which is unheard of! We grew up together but now we live quite far from each other. Usually I don't get to see her but once maybe twice a year so I am getting very spoiled! We had a great time meeting up for lunch. She is an awesome wife, mommy, and friend. She is also a Nurse Practitioner for an infertility clinic. I always enjoy her stories and the passion she shares with me on this topic. God is using her to touch people's lives that are hurting. She is awesome! I had a great time Erin and I look forward to seeing you again. Love ya!

Erin and Me

Claire (Erin's daughter), Emily, and Ansley

Lunch with Tracy and the Kids

2008-07-17T19:23:00.002-04:00

Today after VBS was over the girls and I were excited to meet my friend Tracy and her kids for lunch. They are down for the week and it was so nice to see them again! I have missed them sooo much! We had a great time catching up:-) Tracy has been a wonderful friend to me-she is beautiful on the inside and out!

Tracy and I (Laci fell fast asleep after eating)

Lindsey, Matthew, Ansley, and Emily
Love ya Tracy!!!

VBS

2008-07-16T21:58:00.005-04:00

This week Emily and Ansley have been attending Vacation Bible School at my parent's church. This is where I went to VBS as a little girl with my sisters. They are having a great time learning about different bible stories, making crafts, singing, and playing with some of their friends from dance class.

Emily and her friend Madison (doing the motions to a VBS song)

Katherine and Emily
Ansley and her friend Madi

Happy Birthday GG!

2008-07-15T22:10:00.004-04:00

Today is my grandma's 82nd birthday. We took her to a local restaurant for dinner and then back to my parents' house for cake and presents. The girls call her GG short for great-grandmother. She is always very thoughtful and remembers all of our birthdays. She loves to mail cards out to people to help brighten their day:-) We love you GG!

Emily and Ansley helping GG blow out her candles:-)

Lunch with Cousins

2008-07-14T20:55:00.003-04:00

After church on Sunday we had lunch with Andrew's cousin and her family. His cousin is married to a lieutenant colonel in the US Marine Corp. They are getting ready to leave this week to live in Germany for two years. They have two beautiful children. We always need to remember to say thank you to the men who serve our country and pray for them!

Emily, Kaitlyn, Ansley, and Collin

On a side note, during church Andrew started not feeling well. He made it through all 3 services but couldn't make it to lunch. He arrived home just in time for a stomach bug to work through his system. He is still not feeling the best but is able to keep food down. Please pray that he will feel 100% by tomorrow and that us girls do not catch it.

Princess Emily Grace!

2008-07-12T15:22:00.006-04:00

Andrew and I decided that on each of the girls' 5th birthday we would take them to Bippity Boppity Boutique to dress up as a princess of their choice and then to the Character Dining at Disney. Well, yesterday was the big day for Emily and she finally decided after looking at the gowns that she liked Belle the best. She started off with a 3:00 apt. at the Boutique where they made her feel so special and fixed her right up! Then she had a photo shoot-the pictures turned out so good it was so hard choosing which ones to buy! Then we met up with my sisters Sarah and Audrey with Kylie for the character dining. We were able to meet Cinderella, Prince Charming, and Cinderella's step-mother and two step-sisters. They were quite funny! We weren't there two minutes before Anastasia (one of the step-sisters) asked Andrew for a dance. She thought he was quite handsome-I think I might have some steep competition....LOL! Then the girls were able to have an awesome time meeting all the characters. They also brought out a birthday cake that I had ordered and sang Happy Birthday to Emily. Emily absolutely loved it! She was the "Belle of the Ball"! (I think Ansley and Kylie had just as much fun too!) We ended the night by taking a tram ride around the park so the girls could see Cinderella's castle and they love taking train rides (what they call the tram). We all had a great time! Enjoy the slideshow!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Pregnancy Update

2008-07-10T21:16:00.003-04:00

A couple of weeks ago when I went for my check up I had to take the gestational diabetes test along with being checked for anemia. Well, I got a phone call yesterday from the nurse letting me know that I had passed the gestational part but I am anemic. They want me to start taking iron supplements along with my prenatal. I did not have this with Emily or Ansley so I was a little surprised by the news. But now I know why I have been so tired lately. I just figured it was because I am trying to keep up with two preschoolers and our daily adventures in life! I guess there was more to it than I thought!

Sweet Significance

2008-07-09T20:18:00.003-04:00

Last night I had the privilege of giving a devotion to a ladies group at their church. The theme for the night was "Sweet Significance" which goes along with their Confection Connection name. It was a great time for ladies to enjoy coffee, sweets, games, and just fellowship with one another. I thought I would blog a short recap of my talk last night...
I did an acrostic for "WORTH" since significance might have taken all night!

W-Wonderfully Made-Gen. 1:27 and Psalm 139:13-16
Can we honestly say with King David "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made." Or do we tend to find the parts on our bodies that we don't like? God made us in His image and we're arguing with Him when we start complaining about how He made us. God has a purpose for each one of us that only we can fulfill! Don't let the media make you feel less of a person. You have worth and you are significant!

O-Overcome by His Love-Zephaniah 3:17 and Romans 8:37-39
God loves us unconditionally! Nothing can seperate us from His love! As humans we tend to show conditional love to one another. Maybe you had a rough childhood, suffered from abuse, having a tough time with your husband....all of these things can make us feel worthless or insignificant but you can overcome by His love!!!

R-Renew Your Mind-Romans 12:2 and Philippians 4:8
What are we putting into our minds???? (through tv shows, movies, conversations, books, magazines,etc)
How often are we putting God's Word in???
Stay focused on Christ and in His Word. Get in it daily!!! When our eyes begin to look around and compare, our worth begins to dwindle. But when we stay gazed upon Christ we know we have worth!

T-Thankful Heart-Colossians 3:15-17
The opposite of thankfulness is bitterness. God has given each of us a role in life. The media and today's society tend to emphasize success and significance with the roles we play. No matter what we are called to do (from a celebrity to cleaning a dirty diaper for a baby) we should ask God "How can I glorify you today in my given role?" Do you have a thankful heart? Can you see the significance in your daily role? God has called you to something-step up to the plate and make the best of it for His glory!

H-Hold onto His Promises-2 Corinthians 1:20
Jesus came and lived out a faithful ministry, He never sinned, He died for us, and He is coming back for us! This is not our home so we should not put all our worth or significance into this earth. God loves us so much He is preparing a place for us. We are getting new bodies and that is what I call significant!

I had to think of a candy to pass out for each lady to go along with the theme. Here is what came to mind...
Werther's Original
You were worth the price! You are an original-God's masterpiece.

Only in Him can we find our worth and significance!

***To my bloggin' buddies Robyn and Heidi D.--you do an awesome job organizing this event for the women of your church each month. It was such a blessing for me to see God using you and the gifts He has given you! Love ya!