Just the Four of Us!

Tis the Season....for baking, shopping, wrapping and CELEBRATING!

2008-12-21T22:11:00.005-05:00

We will definately be having a white Christmas this year. We have had more snow this winter than I remember having in a long time. So far, we have about a foot on the ground, and we are expecting even more this week. It is soooo cold too. I've lived in Michigan my whole life, but just can't believe how cold it is and how much snow we have already. The kids are excited to have so much snow to go sledding, build snowmen, and make snow angels. Since we are without a van for a couple of days, we will be home enjoying the warmth of our home, while baking, wrapping, and cleaning.

I love this time of year. It is absolutely my favorite time of year for being with family, enjoying all the smiles, laughter, and joy that everyone seems to wear on their faces. I love buying gifts for others, helping those in need, and listening to Christmas music. We have been busy for the past couple of weeks, and now, we have only two days until Christmas Eve and we will be busy around the house making the final preparations for Christmas day.

I look forward to this week, and I am praying that all of you enjoy your family, your homes, your children, and your special traditions for this time of year. I am so thankful that Jesus came to earth to be born as a baby, giving up all his Heavenly glory, so that He could die for us. I'm thankful we have the opportunity to go to Heaven and see those loved ones who are waiting for us there. I'm thankful for Christmas. May your Christmas with loved ones be full of all the ingredients that make the best Christmas ever!

Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving from the Heart

2008-11-23T21:08:00.003-05:00

This week we will celebrate Thanksgiving with our families and friends. This week we will pause and give thanks for our God, our country, our homes, our freedoms, our families, our health, our blessings beyond measure. There are some who don't have a home, or family, or good health at the moment, but they can still be thankful. There are some who don't live in a free country with religious freedoms, and yet, they will be thankful. There are some who have no home, no job, and their afraid for their futures, but they can still be thankful. Each of us experience blessings and trials in our lives at different seasons, and for different times, but no matter the moment, no matter the circumstance, no matter the fear, the future, or the outlook, whether life is "good" and you feel on top of the mountain, or you are walking in a dark valley with no sense of what is before you, God is good, and we can be thankful. We can be thankful from our heart. We can be thankful for who He is, and what He provides, and what He promises, and for His unconditional love.

How many times do we tell our kids to say, "Thank You", and we should, and how many times, do we say "Thank You" as we should, but not really mean it? How many times are we "thankful" with our lips, and yet our heart and our actions only show an ungrateful spirit! True thankfulness on the lips will outpour from a heart filled with thankfulness. Thanksgiving starts in the heart, and is cultivated by praising and remembering and vocalizing our thankful spirits to all those who come in contact with us. Thankfulness should very well be spoken from our mouths, but others should KNOW that we are thankful because we live thankfulness - it should be evident that we are content with what God has blessed us with, and with what He has done for us. We need nothing more than the salvation He has provided for us (and we don't even deserve that)- everything else that we have and achieve, and gain in this life, are added blessings - because we deserve death and He has given us life. We deserve hell, and He has offered us Heaven. We deserve punishment, and He gave us His only Son.

This Thanksgving, we can all be thankful. We can all praise with our lips, and we should - but we should all stop and ask ourselves, is our heart full of Thanksgiving? Are we a testament - an outpouring - of God's blessings in our lives? We will celebrate Thanksgiving with family - and I do believe, I have the BEST family in the world - we will celebrate with our children - our son, who two years ago this Thanksgiving was given a very bleak prognosis and outcome for his future medically, and this Thanksgiving he is a thriving, vibrant, and loveable 3 year old boy. We will be thankful for a new church family that God has directed us to with a church family that has welcomed us with open arms, a pastor who loves the Lord and faithfully teaches the Bible, and many young families with children for us to grow with. We will be thankful for His love, His peace, and His mercies. And, we will not just be thankful on Thanksgiving day when it's our turn around the table to "vocalize" our thanksgiving - but we will strive to be full of Thanksgiving that is lived out in our daily lives.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Remembering Our Precious Babies

2008-10-15T11:43:00.005-04:00

Today is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. And although today is a designated day set aside to remember our precious babies who have already gone on to heaven, and raise awareness for the cause so that others may not suffer these losses in the future, for anyone who has lost a child either during pregnancy or infanthood, not a day goes by that those babies are not in our thoughts and hearts.

As many of you know, we have lost four babies - two to early miscarriage, one still born daughter, Claire Marie, and one sweet daughter who was born prematurely and was too little to survive, Allison Grace, who was with us just 8 hours. It has taken me a very long time to be thankful that God allowed these trials in our lives, and that His plan is perfect even when it hurts. And although I miss these precious babies and would love to hug them, kiss them, and hear them laugh and talk, I know that God doesn't allow anything into our lives that He cannot sustain us through or give us the grace to eventually use those experiences to help others and bring glory to Him. My sweet angels are sitting in the presence of Jesus and are perfectly healthy and whole in Him. Oh, I miss them. I miss their sweet faces, their chubby hands, their soft feet, and their tiny lips. I miss all that I would've known had they grown up in our home. But, I'm thankful. I'm thankful that God cares enough for me to help me, love me, and fill a void that only He can fill in our lives.

For those of you who have lost a baby at any time in your lives, I know the hurt and the pain, but I also know a God who can sustain you and carry you through. I know a God who can hold all your tears in His hand, a God who wants to give you peace. Today, while you are either remembering a baby you have lost, or remembering for someone else that you love who is grieving or who has grieved the loss of a baby, may you find rest in Him who loves you unconditionally, cares for you deeply, and wants to give you peace that passes all understanding. And as you lean on Him, may you find that He helps you as you wait on Him as well.

This song is a great reminder to wait on the Lord.

Fall fun, food, and family

2008-09-30T13:41:00.010-04:00

I absolutely love fall. I always get excited when this time of year rolls around, and we pull out our hoodies, sweaters, and jeans. I love the way the kids look in their fall clothes, I love the way our home looks after I pull out the fall decorations. I love the smell of the Yankee pumpkin spice candle that burns almost continually throughout the fall. I love the changing colors of the leaves on the trees, I love to watch the kids run and jump through the leaves that their dad has just spent so much time raking. I love going to the cider mill with the family and enjoying fresh apple cider, hot doughnuts and crisp apples. I love the fall, and I can't think of a better time to reflect on all the wonderful goodness that God gives us throughout the year.

We have so much to be thankful for. Even during this time of political, social, and economic unrest, we serve a God who is still in control, and who will provide for us and take care of us no matter what situation we are in. I love that none of what is going on in the world around us takes God by surprise. I love that He still allows us the beautiful blessings of the changing of the seasons, the sweetness of our children and family, the gracious goodness of His love and mercy. I find His mercies are new each morning, and I am usually in great need of fresh mercies, joy, and a giant dose of patience each day. I'm thankful that God is able to give me all of those things each day, and so much more than I deserve or could ask for.

I'm thankful this fall for so many things in our lives and our family. What are you thankful for this fall? What do you love about fall? Wherever you are, whatever situation you are in, and whatever you may face tomorrow, God is still God, and He loves you and cares for you. We can all be thankful for that.

Since we love the cider mill so much, I will post a couple of pictures from our cider mill day last Saturday; however, this was the second time we've been this fall already, and we plan to go at least a couple more times before fall turns to winter.

Light the Night!

2008-09-11T14:24:00.000-04:00

October is closing in on us now, and I can hardly believe it. We have had just 16 people respond to the Light the Night fundraising event that we are walking for on October 3. I am so thankful for those people who have given already because through just those 16, we have raised over $1,000, but I know we can do more. I am excited to walk in this event. I am excited to share in this event with my family who has just a vested interest in this important charity. I want to be able to give more. We need your help. Going to the website and giving is easy, quick, safe, and tax deductible. The link is at the bottom of the page. I wanted to send this out today, because Alex doesn't go back to the clinic until September 25, and by that day, the walk will be just a couple of weeks away. Can you give something? Any contribution is appreciated greatly, and will be used to give back to those in need of help from the Leukemia and Lymhpoma Society.

This walk is so important to me - not because I want to be the team with the most money raised (although that would be great), but because I personally know so many whose lives have been touched by leukemia or lymphoma and sadly, many of those have lost their battles with these diseases. We are so blessed and fortunate that Alex is a survivor, and yet, I know how desperately funds are needed to continue with research to find a cure for these devastating illnesses. I also know how much patients and their families depend on the funds of these organizations to help relieve some of the financial burden brought on because of the sudden change in their lives.

None of this money goes to us directly, and so this isn't for personal gain that I ask you to give. I ask you to give because I know the impact our giving can have on families, on lives, and on medical research that can change a family forever. Most of you can think of someone you are close to who has been affected by the hardships of cancer even if not leukemia or lymphoma - won't you give a donation if not in honor of Alex then in honor of someone you know or love?
You all have been there for us during our most difficult times and days. You have supported us with your thoughts, your prayers, and your encouragement. You all are truly an inspiration to our family, and I know that with our gifts, we will continue to be an inspiration to countless other families who even tonight are dealing with a diagnosis or a prognosis that looks bleak.

Visit our site, give a gift, save a life! Thank you so much for your help.

Love,Jennifer, Scott, Audra and ALEX!

http://www.active.com/donate/ltnMadiso/2339_AlexsArmy

School Days!

2008-09-02T09:47:00.011-04:00

I used to love going to school. I remember each summer just a few weeks before school started getting all my new school supplies and school clothes, and just being excited about getting back into the routine of seeing my friends each day. I loved elementary school and playing outside, I loved Jr. High where everything was new and exciting and where I fell in love for the first time. :-) I loved high school where I began to have more freedoms, going to sporting events, spirit week, class discussions, banquets, and trips. I loved school. I can hardly believe that now I am sending my own two children to school. What an adventure awaits them and us, as we begin the school days.

I am homeschooling Audra again this year using the A Beka DVD program. She is in 2nd grade, and she is so smart and has done great doing this program. We used it last year as well. She started last week, and has one week done already. I love the flexibility of homeschooling, and the opportunities it allows us to do some different activities. I am very proud of her and how hard she works to complete her school work each day. However, next year she will probably go back to traditional school (she went in kindergarten). She would like to go back, and I think I would like her to experience all that I loved about school too. Here is a couple of pictures of her on the day she started school.

Today, Audra and I dropped Alex off for his first day of preschool. He woke up ready to go, and after barely eating any of his breakfast, he was ready to head out the door. He wore his Spiderman backpack with pride as he walked out the door to begin his first day of school. I am so proud of him as there were days we didn't know if he would ever make it this far. He was very excited to be there, and after hanging up his backpack and finding his cubby, he promptly sat down at the playdough table and never even said goodbye when I told him we were leaving. I guess he will do just fine without me :-) I can't wait to see what he learns this year and how he grows socially as he begins to encounter different people and activities that he has never known.

Here are a couple of pictures of him this morning as he smiled proudly for the camera!

Okay, so he isn't smiling in this one - but I just had to snap his picture because so many parents wanted pics of their student with the teacher. It was getting sort of cramped in there :-)

My prayer for this year for my children is that God will teach them and help them in whatever obstacles they may face (even at their young ages). I pray He uses them already for His honor and glory and that I will have the patience and strength to be the best mom I can be to these gifts the Lord has so graciously given me.

Life's Changes

2008-08-18T22:23:00.004-04:00

Life has been rushing by this summer in a flury of activities. We've been blessed to be able to spend a lot of time with family, visit friends, and go to many different places. We've been busy, and we've enjoyed it. We've been gone a LOT, and we've had so much fun. But in the midst of all that we do each day, we have also been undergoing a lot of changes in our family. Not "just the four of us" but in our extended families. We've been adjusting, refocusing, reevaluating, and changing, and sometimes I just don't know how much I like it.

One of the biggest changes in our lives right now is that we have chosen to leave our church, and look for a new church. I am well aware that change is good, and that many of these changes in our lives, we have chosen. But, that doesn't change the fact that they are hard, and sometimes even uncomfortable. I never really realized that I might not like change so much until this summer when we decided to change churches. It didn't seem like it would be such a major life event, but it sure has turned out to be for us. You really don't realize how adept you are to your life's routine, your traditions, until you are faced with making a decision that totally uproots you from everything you have ever known. We had been at our church since we were married thirteen years ago, and Scott has gone there since he was in elementary school.

Now, we are in the process of looking for a new place to call our church home. We are excited and nervous and apprehensive all at the same time. The reasons that led us to this change are extremely concrete in our minds, and it is with confidence and peace that we made the decision. But we have definately left our comfort zone - which we are quickly learning is hard, but is sometimes a good thing too -and in our case, it is also what God wants for us - so we know that ultimately, we will find the right place, and we are excited to see what God has for us there.

However, leaving the comfort zone in your life isn't easy. It isn't always what we immediately think we can do, but we are finding that stepping out of your comfort zone, although difficult, can be one of the most important learning opportunities we have in life. I don't think God wants us to stay comfortable in life - be it in our jobs, our churches, our schools, our families, our lives in general (don't get me wrong - I don't think you need to always actually change the entire situation, but even in the same location, we can step out of our comfort zone). Too often, we think if we are comfortable - then why change? If we are supposed to be loyal - why question, why leave, why CHANGE?

I'm learning, and it's hard, but I'm learning, that God uses life's changes to change us and to mold us, and to help us become all that we can be in this life. He has so much to offer us, and yet, most of the time, we are too comfortable to reach outside of our comfort zone, and change. We limit God to the box we put Him in. We put parameters and limits on what we will do, where we will go, how we will live, and then expect Him to give us His richest blessings while we give Him the suggestions on what we are sure is best for us.

Amazing isn't it - the way life changes. This summer as we've been looking for a new church, our family has also been changing. Some are heading to college, some are starting new relationships, some are struggling with life's decisions, some are preparing for new jobs, one is fighting in Iraq. Some of us are scared, lonely, sad, happy, and confused. And just think, soon it will all change....AGAIN!

Catching UP!!!

2008-07-12T22:53:00.003-04:00

We have been staying very busy around the Wiser household. I feel like the summer is just flying by, and we are certainly enjoying soaking it all in. I can hardly believe that July 4 has come and gone. I keep thinking of things I want to do before the summer is over. Isn't that how each summer goes. Always so much to do in such a short window of time before the cooler weather starts to creep in and cabin fever becomes our day to day experience in Michigan.

Although we haven't had a really hot summer yet, we've gotten to spend a lot of time outside and by the pool or the lake, and I love that. I love so much about summer. I love that the days are longer, the grass is greener (and this summer in particular - it is still so lush and pretty - thanks to all the rain), I love our flowers (especially the beautiful Mandevilla Vines that are blooming bright pink on my back deck), I love the time together with family and friends that seems to happen more often in the summer. I am just a summer kind of girl.

We recently had friends from Pennsylvania come and stay with us for several days, and we enjoyed our time together. We took the kids and went to a water spray park one day, and then one day we went to Frankenmuth. The guys golfed, and we enjoyed a lot of good conversations on the back deck and in the living room. They have two kids around the same age as ours, and the kids loved playing together. It was so nice to catch up with them.

We had a great 4th of July too. The weather was perfect, and we enjoyed a nice day together with Scott's family at his Aunt Gayle's home. What a fun day filled with good food, family, laughter, and swimming in her pool. The kids love to swim at her house because she has a diving board (well, Audra loves that :-) and because it is warm. Even though it wasn't really hot - the pool temperature was great. That night we went to watch fireworks with Scott's parents and his sister and her family. It was also a beautiful evening, and the kids had a lot of fun playing while we waited for the fireworks to begin. Alex was pretty impressed with the colors and kept telling me "I'm not scared, Mommy". It was a special time for me as well this year as I watched the fireworks and really truly tried to think about all they represent. Having my dear nephew serving our country in Iraq gives me a different perspective on the freedoms we hold so dear in this country. I am proud to be an American even though I don't always like the all the ways our country has changed its values and traditions, I am proud to be a part of a country that is free and that is still Under God!

Just after the 4th of July celebration, we have another big celebration in our family now. Alex celebrated his two year anniversary for his bone marrow transplant on July 6. It's amazing that it has been two years since that day. What a miracle we have in our home each and every day. We are so thankful for this blessing and privilege that God has given us. It is truly a day that will always be dear to us because God used that new marrow to bring health and healing to our precious son.

On July 5, we took off and headed up north to my parent's house for a few days. We always enjoy going up there to relax and enjoy the more quiet pace of life. We went canoeing with our family (which I must say - I have the best family everrrrr!), and we had such a blast. It was a gorgeous day, and it brought back tons of memories of my younger days when I canoed a lot during the summer. I have to admit though that when you haven't canoed with your husband since college - it can definately be the trigger for a "small" spat if you let it. We worked well together though and after just a few collisions with trees, muck, rocks, and some docks along the way, we were working together as quite a team. We enjoyed a day at the beach too, and Alex loved playing in the sand - I mean loved it. He didn't want to stop - his most favorite activity - throwing sand in his sister's hair and messing up her sandcastles. Go figure!

So that's our summer thus far in a nutshell. Pure and simple - summer = fun! What are you doing with your summer days? Are you packing them full of summertime fun?

Summer Fun!

2008-06-27T11:32:00.002-04:00

This week Audra had the chance to go to a day camp called Kreative Kids Kamp at a church near us. It was every day from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. And she has had so much fun. She is in a variety show tonight at the church where the families get to come and watch them perform things they've learned during their week of camp. She has made a neat craft each day along with doing many other fun things as well. She comes home each day full of energy and conversation.

We love everything about the summer. The warm weather, the fresh fruit and veggies, the water, the sunshine, trips up north, and time spent with family and friends. Kids have fun just running and playing outside, and it makes me remember so many fun times I had as a child growing up. This summer we are excited to take Alex to do some things he hasn't gotten to do yet, and watch him enjoy summer with his sister.

God is so good to give us the season of summer. I enjoy summer - do you? What do you enjoy about summer? What memories do you have of summers past? What do you have planned for this summer? Make it fun and enjoy it. Summer doesn't last nearly long enough in Michigan, but I'm always thankful for the crisp air of fall when it arrives.

Happy Summer Fun to you!

Messy Wednesday!

2008-06-18T14:01:00.003-04:00

Today seems like one of those days where any accident that could happen around the house has happened. From the moment Alex woke up this morning, I have been cleaning up his messes. This isn't that unusual, but today there have been more spills, more uh-oh's, and more "I'm sorry, mommy" than normal.

I've cleaned up chocolate milk on my bedspread, finger paints on the floor, water from the fingerpaints on the chair, table, and floor, cereal on the living room floor, juice on the kitchen floor, pee on the bathroom floor, soup off the kitchen chair, and just think, it's only 2:25 in the afternoon.

As I've continued to wipe up, clean up, and then look and find another mess-up, I was reminded that my today is kinda' like my life with God. Each day, usually each moment, He is constantly cleaning up and fixing all the messes I've made. He always wipes me off, blots me dry, and makes me like new each time I have an accident, and have to say "I'm sorry, Father".

However, unlike me, my Heavenly Father does a much better job at restoring me and making me like brand new which I can't seem to do around the house. He is constantly changing me and helping me become better despite all the uh-oh's I make in life. He is also much more patient and gracious when I make a mess than I am sometimes with my children. He never gets impatient, frustrated, or upset, He just forgives, cleans up the mess, and waits with open arms for the next time I have a major spill.

So, today, I'm trying to remember that no matter how many more times I have to clean something up around the house, it will never compare to how many times God has had to clean something up in my life. I just hope my kids somehow see past me and see a good and loving God who can change our life no matter how messy we make it.

Have you allowed and asked God to clean up your mess today? He can and He will. He can make something beautiful out of the accidents in our lives if we let Him.

Thankful and Excited!

2008-06-11T13:15:00.002-04:00

Today I'm feeling very thankful. Of course, I know that regardless of my circumstances, I should always be thankful. But let's just face it - some days it's a lot easier than other days.

Today, our power is back on - which after 48 hours of no electricity and no running water - makes me very happy. Having no electricity and no water - makes me extremely grateful that I live in the 21st century. We were able to go to my sister's house for part of the time and get some laundry done and take some much needed baths/showers, but I'm glad to have my own water, shower, and bed. I realize how fortunate we are to have so many privileges that we take for granted each day - and really don't realize to even be thankful for - and I know my power being out for two days doesn't even begin to compare to those all over the world so much less fortunate than we are.

But, today, here's what I'm thankful for:

I am thankful for our power being restored.

I'm thankful for all the hard working men who work for Detroit Edison (shout out to my great brother, Tom, who is one of those men) who have been working in dangerous areas round the clock since the storms on Sunday so that we can all be more comfortable.

I'm thankful that the sun is shining and it isn't raining.

I'm thankful that Alex's clinic visit went great on Monday. All of his counts were perfect, and his doctor was pleased. I'm thankful we don't have to return until July 14 - which will be officially two years after his transplant. I'm thankful God has been so good to give Alex his health back.

I'm thankful Audra finished the first grade and is reading, writing, and doing math like a champ. I'm thankful that God has given her the ability to do these things and that she is a smart, funny, sweet, and tender hearted little girl.

I'm thankful that my husband has a great job that provides us with not only a salary but also excellent health insurance. I'm thankful that my husband works so hard for our family, and that he is such a tremendous father and husband to us.

I'm thankful that Alex is potty-trained, and that he has been accident free for many days.

I'm THANKFUL AND EXCITED that I get to go up north tonight for a long weekend with girlfriends, and I absolutely can't wait to stay up late, lay on the beach, eat great food, watch movies, and talk until we have nothing else to say (is that possible?)

And, I'm trying to be thankful that gas is $4 a gallon and not $5 a gallon yet!!

What are you thankful for? We each have so many things to be thankful for. I know my list could go on and on.

Be thankful in all things!

Mondays!

2008-06-02T23:40:00.003-04:00

Mondays are always interesting days after the weekend. It seems like the day is always filled with surprises and challenges. Saturday we took the kids out for breakfast which turned out to be more of a fiasco than a enjoyable meal together since Alex decided that he was not going to be happy no matter what the situation was around him. He ended up getting disciplined more than once, and I wondered even more why we didn't just stay home and have Eggo waffles like we usually do!

After breakfast, Scott took us over to see some lots that were up for auction in a neighborhood not too far from us. We found a few we were interested in, and then he headed to the auction, where he was able to bid on a lot and purchase it for us for a really great deal. We are so thankful that God allowed that to work out for us. We look forward to building a new house and now have to get a couple of things done on our house and then put it up for sale. That could be the hardest part of the ordeal - waiting for our house to sell, but in God's time!

Sunday, we went to a new church since we are in the process of looking for a new church home. It was very interesting to be the "new people" in church. For as long as we can remember, we have just always belonged. Now, after much soul searching, we feel God calling us to find a new church home, and boy, do we need His wisdom.

After that service, we had a wedding reception all the way at the other side of the county. It was a beautiful day for the tropical themed reception which was held on the rooftop patio of a restaurant. So the weekend was busy for the two kids especially, and as usual today had its share of joys, tears, laughs, challenges and rewards.

Today was the first day that I fully committed to potty training Alex. What a day! It has been a day spent primarily in the bathroom and stopping in the middle of whatever task I am working on to make routine and frequent visits to the potty. After a very long first day, I must say - we made it! Alex went successfully in the potty 3 times, and had at least 6 accidents - but we did it!! I've cleaned up accidents on the living room floor, my bedroom floor, the kitchen chair, and the couch, but DAY ONE IS OVER - AND IT WAS A MONDAY - so it can only get better from here - Right!

Monday is now almost over, and the Wings haven't yet clinched the Stanley Cup, but the kids are sleeping, the house is mostly picked up, and I am very tired. But God helped us through another crazy Monday - oh wait, as the Bangles said so long ago, it's just another "Maniac Monday"!

Working Outside!

2008-05-29T23:45:00.005-04:00

Today I worked out in the front yard planting some flowers. It was so fun to have Audra and Alex out helping me. They love to dig in the dirt, and put the flowers in the ground. It was neat to see them so eager to help me plant. I got most of them planted and will have to finish the rest this weekend. When I was done planting for the day, I started to water the flowers, and Audra and Alex thought it would be fun if I sprayed them with the hose. Needless to say, it wasn't really hot outside, but they loved it nonetheless. The weather was so nice, and it was great to spend the day outside. Alex just giggled and giggled every time the water sprayed him. He is really into helping with whatever I am doing these days, and although sometimes, it really ends up taking more time this way, it is always sweet to have him at my side working with me. I really need to post some pics of him helping me work on projects - he really is a sweet helper.

This weekend we really need to get into the yard to do some more work. There are several projects that need to be done - weeds to pull, flowers to plant, mulch to lay, wood to burn, and the list goes on. However, I just watched the weather and it looks like rain for Saturday. So, maybe, we will just get inside work done. Who knows, we'll wait to see. Either way, it looks to be a busy weekend, and maybe, if we can get things finished, we will go out to dinner with my nephew and his wife, and go see a movie (if Scott can handle not watching the Red Wings
game :-). What are your plans for the weekend? Hopefully, you will be able to get the things done that you need to and then go to church on Sunday to get refreshed for next week.

Have a good one!

Sweet Audra!

2008-05-25T17:46:00.002-04:00

This weekend our daughter Audra celebrated her 7th birthday. I can't believe she is 7 years old. She is a such a sweet girl with a very tender heart and a fun loving personality. She has been so excited all weekend to be celebrating. Her birthday was on Friday, her party was on Saturday, and today she got to go to Tigers baseball game with her daddy. We had beautiful weather all weekend and have enjoyed being with friends and family.

I'll post some pics soon of her birthday party - but right now, we are going outside to enjoy some more nice weather with some of her new birthday presents. We are thankful for this precious life God blessed us with seven years ago. The birth of a child who came in the midst of a time when we thought God may never give us biological children. What a great God we serve for He has given us the gift of her life as sweet and special as they come. The joy of carrying a baby and giving birth to a miracle and watching her grow has been such a sweet reward!

And then.....

God gave us Alex through another means although equally miraculous when He gave us the privilege and opportunity to adopt. What a joy and next month - he will be turning 3! What an amazing summer we will have celebrating the births of both of my precious children.

Steven Curtis Chapman

2008-05-22T12:00:00.002-04:00

Late last night while I was catching up on my blog reading - I found out the tragic news of the death of Steven Curtis Chapman's youngest daughter, Maria. Maria was only five, and the Chapman's had adopted her from China along with two other beautiful Chinese daughters. What a sad day for the Chapman family during this unexpected and devastating loss. I cried as I read the story, and was reminded still of what a Great God we serve that no matter the circumstances, He is right there reaching out to carry us.

I thought about the incredible impact that Steven Curtis Chapman has had on so many thousands of people througout the world. I thought about how he has written songs about such horrible tragedies, how he has prayed for and with people going through devastating life situations, and how God has used him as an instrument for strength and encouragement. But more than that, I thought about God's ways that He has been preparing the Chapman family for this moment in their lives. Although we can never be prepared for something like this, God in his ultimate wisdom and plan was not surprised by this event. He will sustain, and He will provide peace and strength for this precious family. The words of so many of SCC's music that are hidden in his heart along with the Word of God, will I'm sure be a source of tremendous healing and encouragement. What a gift God has given this man, and what a platform he will now have to share the testimony of how God brought them through undoubtedly one of the most difficult valleys of their lives.

Several years ago, Scott and I along with some others went to a SCC concert and were amazed at how he not only sang, but proclaimed the name of Jesus throughout the concert and then at the end gave an altar call so that anyone there not saved may have the opporunity to do so. He gave a clear plan of salvation. We were so thankful that not only does he used his music ministry to proclaim Jesus, but that he also lives it and speaks it.

Then, Scott and I had the incredible opportunity to meet Steven the year before we adopted Alex at a small function where he shared with just a few of us his heart for God and orphans around the world. It was clear to us that day that his heart is truly overflowing to share the love of Jesus to everyone that he has the chance to share it with - be it in concert or in person. Shortly thereafter that meeting, we found out that Steven's organization, Shaohannah's Hope, which gives financial aid to families adopting internationally, had given our family a grant of $3,000. What an amazing minstry this man and his family have.

Today, I'm thankful that God gives us children even if only for a brief moment on this earth to love and take care of. I'm thankful and humbled that He gives me the privilege to be a mommy - and I realize that our children aren't ours - they are His and they are a gift.

Please pray for the Chapman family and especially for their son who was driving the vehicle which struck his precious sister Maria. Pray for God's strength, peace, love and comfort to engulf the family.

The "Davids"

2008-05-21T22:43:00.002-04:00

I just had no idea that David Cook would win American Idol tonight. I was actually kind of shocked. We just thought for sure that David Archuletta would win. Not so much because we like him more, but just because of all the 17 and under girls who we just knew would flood the phone lines with calls for him. He is a great singer and such a sweet boy who gave an outstanding performance on the finale last night, but I guess it wasn't enough to get more votes than David Cook.

Believe it or not, with as much as we love American Idol, and have watched since the beginning, I have only voted for a few people. I've tried voting for more, but I don't usually get through when I try, and then I just give up and don't bother trying again. So, I guess, some would say I'm not truly a fan, but I do love watching and seeing how the singers progress from good to great. But then I thought, how many have actually made it really big after the show? I mean try to remember all the winners and who is actually making a successful career of their singing? I guess Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry have probably done the most, and are personally my two favorites. Who has been your favorite Idol from all the seasons?

So, when does the next season of American Idol start? I can't wait to see the tryouts - those are my favorite part of the show. Until then, lets see what kind of hits David Cook will cook up!

Motivation!

2008-05-19T15:40:00.004-04:00

We had so much fun this weekend in Ohio with our friends from college. We laughed, stayed up late, and just enjoyed being together. The kids all got along well, and we agreed that we shouldn't allow so much time to pass between our visits. Thanks, Dave, Julie, and kids, for spending a fun weekend with us. Audra and Alex loved playing with you guys.

And then.... you come home~! I feel like I was gone for much longer than just 3 days. I have a mountain of laundry, a big pile of paperwork to sort through, and only a few days left to prepare for Audra's birthday party on Saturday. The kids rooms both need a good "clean up and throw out" session - not to mention the multiple outdoor tasks that really should be completed before the guests arrive on Saturday. I always get the urge to get a lot accomplished before Audra's birthday each year. I think because it is just a good time to take a look around and see what can be thrown out this year, and what just needs to find a better "hiding" place in the house. :-)

For some reason, I haven't felt motivated yet to start this week. Granted, the week is only beginning, but with all I would like to get done, a week won't be long enough at this point. But, I work well under pressure, so knowing me like I do, the things will get accomplished. But, Scott doesn't like it when I am frantically scurrying around at 2:00 in the morning trying to get done tasks that he just doesn't think are necessary. For some reason, he likes to sleep during that time.

So, Monday is quickly passing, and I am beginning to feel motivated to head to Audra's room, and begin the daunting task of going through baby dolls, dress-up items, multiple polly pockets, and bins of littlest pet shop toys, horses, and craft items. This job alone could keep me busy for hours.

But I must admit, I love being organized and having things in just the right place. In a weird sort of way throwing "things" away for me is almost joyful - getting rid of the junk. The problem now - getting my kids and husband motivated to help me!

Old Friends!

2008-05-15T22:46:00.003-04:00

Today has been busy! Wow, it seemed like just an hour or so I woke up at 6:30 to get Alex ready to go to the clinic with Scott. Now, it's almost 11:00, and I'm not even close to ready for bed. Where did my day go? I'm sure most moms feel like that if not every day than many days.

Today wasn't filled with anything too exciting - just normal routine errands. However, yesterday and today I got to spend quite a bit of time with one of my dearest friends from high school, Becca. We've been trying to get together more these days even when it's hard to do because of all that fills our days. It was so nice yesterday having her to chat with at the house while the kids played, and we simply talked (while we picked up crackers, toys, and broke up arugments :-) When she left, I just thought how thankful I am for her and for our friendship. Old Friends - their like our favorite old pair of jeans - comfortable, just the right fit, and they never go out of style :-)

So, how blessed am I that we are heading to Cincinnati, OH tomorrow to spend the weekend with some great old (and by that I do not mean age :-) friends. Friends we met during our freshmen year of college while they were juniors (oh, they really are old :-). Our hubbys (back then boyfriends) played soccer together on the same collegian league, and so the friendship took form. We are so excited to see them. Cincinnati is half way for both us since they are coming from Knoxville, TN. We haven't seen them in a year, and they have never met Alex (since our last visit was a "no kids allowed trip"). Anyhow, just thinking about seeing them tomorrow and visiting brings back so many memories. We've been fortunate enough to be able to stay in touch with them since college, and just the last few years have been difficult to get us altogether. We are looking forward to a fun weekend and thankful that God has allowed us to see each other again even if for just a few days.

Even now, I'm reminded of just how often God provides us with such moments that provide encouragement and rest. A few weeks ago while we were in Orlando, we had the opportunity to see "old" friends from church for a couple of days too. We truly are blessed with wonderful people in our lives whom God has provided at all different stages of our journey to be just what we needed at that time, to carry us through, to change us, and to make an impact on us that would change us forever. These friendships are so special to me, and I'm so thankful God has blessed me with such friends. I pray that I will be the kind of friend to others as so many good friends have been to me.

Thankful for God's Grace!

2008-05-14T19:29:00.003-04:00

Today, I'm thankful that God's grace is sufficient to meet our every need, and give us comfort when we find ourselves in stressful situations.

Alex goes to the clinic tomorrow for a regular check-up, but for the past couple of days has been complaining of his knee hurting him. So, the doctor wants to do some x-rays to check it out and make sure everything is okay. Of course, all day, Satan has been on my back trying to make me forget that God is on the throne and is in control. Satan never lets up and is so pleased when I don't allow God's grace to take hold of my heart. I've been praying that God will ease my mind and that I will allow Him only full access to the emotions and fear I am feeling. I know where there is fear there is no faith.

And so the day has progressed, Audra and Alex have played and fought, and Alex has been happy, and Audra has done school, and I hear them playing hide-and-seek, and I'm reminded to be thankful for all things and in all things. And I am mostly thankful that God's grace is sufficient to meet all my needs.

Preparing for Preschool!

2008-05-12T15:14:00.002-04:00

So, today, Alex's teachers at his physical therapy informed me that Alex will be ready to go to preschool this fall. AGHH!!! What, preschool? It hardly seems possible that the baby we waited and prayed for and traveled to Guatemala to bring home could be ready for preschool. This is a good thing, I know, that Alex who has gone through so much, is ready to transition from his two days a week at physical therapy to attending two days a week at a traditional preschool.

However, the reality of the situation hasn't quite hit me yet. It barely seems like we've had him long enough to prepare him for the days of preschool. But, the teachers say, it's time. The other thing they said was, he NEEDS to go to preschool. They think it will be really good social interaction for him, and also help him with his attachment issues - which I have to agree definately both need improvement. Don't get me wrong, Alex loves to be social - when it is convenient for him - but the idea of speaking up, sharing and being away from Mom, Dad, and Audra for an extended period of time seem to cause major meltdowns.

So, I'm excited and sad about this all at the same time! I'm also going to be busy checking out preschools, getting recommendations from other preschool parents, and praying I get Alex potty-trained before September (this could be the hardest task of all:-)

The Wonderful World of Blogging

2008-05-09T11:17:00.001-04:00

So, I decided to start blogging! Why? There are several reasons I guess.

First of all, I love to write. I always have - at least as far back as I can remember. However, I've never been good at keeping a regular journal, even though I've attempted several times. But a couple of years ago, when our son was diagnosed with a rare and life-threatening form of leukemia, I began a carepage where I documented his journey from diagnosis, chemotherapy, and bone marrow transplant to now. I began to really enjoy the outlet for me as I wrote about my deepest feelings, fears, and joyful moments. The need to update the carepage regarding Alex's medical condition has thankfully become not as necessary, and I have found that I actually miss the day to day interaction of my meeting with the online journal.

Second, over the past couple of years, I've found myself reading more and more blogs. I began reading blogs while I was upkeeping Alex's carepage. I found it was a great avenue of encouragment for me during a really difficult time as I read the blogs of families dealing with their children's illnesses. Then, over time, I have slowly gotten wrapped up in the blogs of so many people, it's hard to even know how many I actually read.

What is this strange fascination with the lives of others that keeps me going back to the computer day after day for more information? I think for me, it has truly been a great source of encouragement and joy to read how the lives of others are really so much like my own. How I can relate to the lives of so many different people. I enjoy reading about old friends from college, the daily lives of moms with children, the trials of those struggling with a sick child, the thoughts of pastors, youth pastors, and so many other people who come to the computer on a regular basis to share their thoughts, tears, laughter, and struggles. It helps me strive to be a better mom, wife, daughter, friend, and most of all a better Christian.

These people, some I do know, and some I do not have all inspired me on different occasions to become a better person on many different levels. I still have so much learning to do, and what better place to learn than from those who are either walking the same path of life that I am or have already walked the path and are now able to share their insight and wisdom.

So, that leaves me here - writing my first blog and hoping that I can do the same for someone out there - help, encourage, and share. It will also be a great place for me to sit and write my thoughts and quirky moments of the day which could quite possibly give you a laugh and be a good outlet for me at the same time. I look forward to blogging!