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Sunday, February 16
Embroidery
I recently didn't like the outcome of one of my embroidery projects. The satin stitch just wasn't working, and in my limited knowledge of embroidery I turned to the internet where I found Mary Corbet's NeedleNThread.com blog. Once there I QUICKLY fell in love and became artistically encouraged to continue on my embroidery quest. I not only was challenged in the arena of embroidery, but also in another area that I've enjoyed over the years. She's using 
as the basis of an embroidery project.
Many many years ago my mother introduced me to stained glass adult coloring books. One of my favorites is the Celtic themed one.
Recently I discovered
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It's so much fun!!
So, back to embroidery- I have several projects going:.jpg)
and I was bored with all of them. Now I can't wait to get back at it!!!
Sunday, December 16
Adoption Update
I apologize to those who have been patiently waiting for an update on our adoption. We knew from the start that this wasn't going to be an easy journey, that there would be hard times. Even though we told ourselves this, it doesn't make those times any easier. As humans, with finite minds, we want the question WHY answered, but God wants us to trust Him and not worry about the why. I think that's the lesson Jeremy and I can take away from this past year. We are to walk in faith blindly, with confidence.
Meanwhile, Jeremy and I have enjoyed being closer to both our families this past year while at the same time missing those who for so long were like family to us. Our situation hasn't been anything like we thought it would, and we continue down this path that God has laid out for us.
When we moved to Georgia last November, we assumed that we would quickly continue the adoption process, or at least from where we left off in Florida- which was waiting to be chosen by a birth mom. However, that wasn't God's plan. I have gone through many emotions, from completely wanting to give up, to forging ahead without God's guidance. I tried to remain focused on the adoption but other areas of my life did and still do require most of my attention. I'm hoping to one day look back at this time and think of it as a refining 'fire', that God was taking this time to mold me into a better mother for my child.
During one of my "I'll do it myself" phases, I decided that Jeremy and I would just adopt through the Dept of Children and Family Services.We attended a 7 week IMPACT program, filled out most of the paperwork, and got our fingerprints done AGAIN (my 4th time). However, the more details we found out, the less peace we had, but I continued to justify it in my mind. So what if we can't get a newborn (unless we wanted to be put on a 5 year waiting list). We would just get a sibling group, and hope for two under the age of five.
The day I called Bethany Christian Services, our adoption agency, to let them know that we had decided to adopt through the state rather than them, I found out that we could do a state adoption THROUGH our Christian agency! Since that day, things have progressed smoothly once again. No, we don't have all the answers, and we don't have everything figured out, but we don't have to. We are taking it a day, a week, at a time. This time, however, I am walking confidently through faith, letting God lead.
Jeremy and I only have TWO things left to do and we will be home study ready. It's taken more than a year, but I know God's timing is always best. My sister, a nurse, referred me to a general practitioner who had also adopted. The doctor shared with me that her son had been born the same month they had turned in their adoption paperwork. Two years later, they met him for the first time and brought him home from Russia.. How awesome is that? It reminded me that God knows me, Jeremy and our future child, who may not even be born yet. His timing and plan are perfect. Yes, it's hard. No, I don't know why or how. Yes, I may bawl my eyes out at the ignorant comments made to me because I am getting more and more emotional as this journey continues, but that's just because my heart is so ready to be a mother to my child, whatever race, sex, ethnicity, he/she may be. I can't wait to see Jeremy as a father, and I can't wait to tell this child how much he/she was loved and prayed for.
Meanwhile, Jeremy and I have enjoyed being closer to both our families this past year while at the same time missing those who for so long were like family to us. Our situation hasn't been anything like we thought it would, and we continue down this path that God has laid out for us.
When we moved to Georgia last November, we assumed that we would quickly continue the adoption process, or at least from where we left off in Florida- which was waiting to be chosen by a birth mom. However, that wasn't God's plan. I have gone through many emotions, from completely wanting to give up, to forging ahead without God's guidance. I tried to remain focused on the adoption but other areas of my life did and still do require most of my attention. I'm hoping to one day look back at this time and think of it as a refining 'fire', that God was taking this time to mold me into a better mother for my child.
During one of my "I'll do it myself" phases, I decided that Jeremy and I would just adopt through the Dept of Children and Family Services.We attended a 7 week IMPACT program, filled out most of the paperwork, and got our fingerprints done AGAIN (my 4th time). However, the more details we found out, the less peace we had, but I continued to justify it in my mind. So what if we can't get a newborn (unless we wanted to be put on a 5 year waiting list). We would just get a sibling group, and hope for two under the age of five.
The day I called Bethany Christian Services, our adoption agency, to let them know that we had decided to adopt through the state rather than them, I found out that we could do a state adoption THROUGH our Christian agency! Since that day, things have progressed smoothly once again. No, we don't have all the answers, and we don't have everything figured out, but we don't have to. We are taking it a day, a week, at a time. This time, however, I am walking confidently through faith, letting God lead.
Jeremy and I only have TWO things left to do and we will be home study ready. It's taken more than a year, but I know God's timing is always best. My sister, a nurse, referred me to a general practitioner who had also adopted. The doctor shared with me that her son had been born the same month they had turned in their adoption paperwork. Two years later, they met him for the first time and brought him home from Russia.. How awesome is that? It reminded me that God knows me, Jeremy and our future child, who may not even be born yet. His timing and plan are perfect. Yes, it's hard. No, I don't know why or how. Yes, I may bawl my eyes out at the ignorant comments made to me because I am getting more and more emotional as this journey continues, but that's just because my heart is so ready to be a mother to my child, whatever race, sex, ethnicity, he/she may be. I can't wait to see Jeremy as a father, and I can't wait to tell this child how much he/she was loved and prayed for.
Monday, July 16
Possible Solutions on our Wilderness JJourney
WOW! Isn't God amazing? I just love when He makes sure I hear a message from Him.
A few weeks ago, I was offered a job that seemed to come from God, as it was perfectly suited for me. I was so relieved and thought we were finally coming out of our wilderness. However, two weeks later, the lady who hired me called me to say she had changed her mind. I had reached 'rock bottom'. I had no idea what we were going to do. I've been worrying about our situation, trying to figure out a solution.
Yesterday in Sunday school, our teacher gave a testimony about how HE had figured out a solution to a problem, but when the problem became bigger, he quickly realized that he needed GOD to figure it out, not him. So, that's kind of how I feel. I had figured out how to start getting us our of this situation, and God took that solution away. Thanks to our teacher, now I'm excited to see what God is going to do in this situation.
Luckily, he also helped me realized my next step in this wilderness journey: changing my worry into faith in God. I have NO idea how this is going to work out. I know God will, but I still worry until he does. Our teacher pointed out that worry is the ultimate sin. It's like slapping God in the face. So, now that I've been reminded of that, I will pray through my worry.
This morning, I continued my bible study of One in a Million by Pricilla Schrier. There were so many messages in there from God designed specifically for me! During the Israelite's journey, they were running out of water when they saw an oasis. They thought THEY had found the solution to their problem, but the waters were bitter. God taught them the lesson of relying on Him for answers to our problems. When they cried otu to Him, He gave them the solution, throw a tree in the water and it became sweet.
"Everything He leads us to, even Marah, is for a specific reason. Marahs posistion us to put our hope not in ourselves, or in the world, but in God. We can't anticipate and provide for life's trials, but God can and does. THE LORD WANTS US TO THIRST NOT AFTER A QUICK FIX TO OUR PROBLEMS BUT AFTER THE LIFE ALTERING REFRESHMENT OF HIS PROVISION."
Ps. 63:1 "Oh God, You are my God. I shall seek you earnestly. My soul thirsts for you, my flesh yearns for you in a dry and weary land where there is no water."
The lyrics to a song based on Isaiah 61:3:
He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fear
Gladness for mourning
Peace for despair
When sorrow seems to surround you
When suffering hangs heavy oer your head
Know that tomorrow brings
Wholeness and healing
God knows your need
Just believe what He said
He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fearGladness for mourning
Peace for despair
When what youve done keeps you from moving on
When fear wants to make itself at home in your heart
Know that forgiveness brings
Wholeness and healing
God knows your need
Just believe what He said
He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fearGladness for mourning
Peace for despair
I once was lost but God has found me
Though I was bound Ive been set free
Ive been made righteous in His sight
A display of His splendor all can see
He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fearGladness for mourning
Peace for despair
Strength for fear
Gladness for mourning
Peace for despair
When sorrow seems to surround you
When suffering hangs heavy oer your head
Know that tomorrow brings
Wholeness and healing
God knows your need
Just believe what He said
He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fearGladness for mourning
Peace for despair
When what youve done keeps you from moving on
When fear wants to make itself at home in your heart
Know that forgiveness brings
Wholeness and healing
God knows your need
Just believe what He said
He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fearGladness for mourning
Peace for despair
I once was lost but God has found me
Though I was bound Ive been set free
Ive been made righteous in His sight
A display of His splendor all can see
He gives beauty for ashes
Strength for fearGladness for mourning
Peace for despair
Wednesday, May 30
Cinch! One Month Later
I've also started back on my daily Bible reading. Our church has put emphasis on everyone reading the Bible through in a year, and I'm trying. I got majorly behind when I hit Leviticus, but I'm past it and steadily continuing on.
This past month has been one of the hardest I've had in years. I know God's timing and will for our lives is the best thing for us, but it doesn't make it any easier. Luckily, I seem to be more confident and at peace now than I did a month ago even though our circumstances haven't changed.
Sunday, April 29
Back to Routine
Today was Day 1 of my new healthy eating plan- CINCH! by Cynthia Sass. I did this plan several months ago, and loved it, but life got in the way so I stopped. I'm determined to stick with it for 21 days (amount of time to set a new habit). CINCH requires that you eat within an hour of getting up, and then every four hours after that. It requires you to eat 5 items at each meal:
1.) Lean Protein (scrambled eggs shown above)
2.) Whole Grain (whole wheat toast)
3.) Healthy Fat (walnuts)
4.) Produce (dried cranberries- but I plan on eating carrots later to add to this)
5.) SASS spices (cinnamon on my toast)
I like this plan because I always have plenty to eat, sometimes too much. It does take planning to make sure you have each item at each meal, but it's worth it to me. I love knowing that I'm giving my body all the nutrients it needs!
Next project: Back to exercising regularly!
Monday, April 23
A typical Monday for an OCD Housewife Princess
Last week I quit my job. I am tired of working for people who care more about the bottom line than about what achieving the bottom line does to others. I am ready to "Make a Difference," as my pastor, Stephen Peeples of Roopville Road Baptist Church, said yesterday. There's a lot more to this decision than I'd care to share right now, but all that matters is that I am happy with it.
Today is the start of something beautiful..... or NOT! I prioritized all the things I hope to accomplish around the house, and unfortunately, the tub drain won the prize. Jeremy and I have lived in this house since mid-November, and the tub drain doesn't have a hair catcher, and that's all I'm going to say about that, oh and EWWWWW!
The fact that I have never been a fan of drain cleaners could have something to do with the horror stories my parents told me in hopes that I would be cautious in using them. Well, I'm cautious- I don't use them. I do not care to lose my eye brows, lovely complexion, or my entire bathroom.
So, thanks to a wonderful website called PINTEREST, and the 'pin' that I discovered which linked to a blog named Ask Anna, I discovered a 'green' way to clean household drains. This is what she says:
1. Put a pot of water on your oven and turn the oven on high to start boiling the water.
2. Meanwhile pour baking soda down the drain. Baking soda has the ability to neutralize fatty acids so it will work and eating away the grime while you are waiting for the water to boil.
3. Once the water has reached a rolling boil remove it from the stove and pour it down the drain.
4. Let the water and baking soda work at decomposing and sterilizing the grime for 10 minutes.
5. After 10 minutes has expired pour 1 cup of bleach down the drain to completely kill any remaining mildew or bacteria.
It took my less than an hour, using household cleaners I already had, and now we can take a shower without standing in three inches of water (yes, I know, I let it get too far). You're welcome, honey.
And this is all in a days work for an OCD Housewife Princess.
Today is the start of something beautiful..... or NOT! I prioritized all the things I hope to accomplish around the house, and unfortunately, the tub drain won the prize. Jeremy and I have lived in this house since mid-November, and the tub drain doesn't have a hair catcher, and that's all I'm going to say about that, oh and EWWWWW!
The fact that I have never been a fan of drain cleaners could have something to do with the horror stories my parents told me in hopes that I would be cautious in using them. Well, I'm cautious- I don't use them. I do not care to lose my eye brows, lovely complexion, or my entire bathroom.
So, thanks to a wonderful website called PINTEREST, and the 'pin' that I discovered which linked to a blog named Ask Anna, I discovered a 'green' way to clean household drains. This is what she says:
1. Put a pot of water on your oven and turn the oven on high to start boiling the water.
2. Meanwhile pour baking soda down the drain. Baking soda has the ability to neutralize fatty acids so it will work and eating away the grime while you are waiting for the water to boil.
3. Once the water has reached a rolling boil remove it from the stove and pour it down the drain.
4. Let the water and baking soda work at decomposing and sterilizing the grime for 10 minutes.
5. After 10 minutes has expired pour 1 cup of bleach down the drain to completely kill any remaining mildew or bacteria.
Because we use our sinks multiple times on a daily basis I recommend repeating this process every few months. Repeating this process on a regular basis will keep the "creepy black stuff" from accumulating and clogging your sink. It will also keep the nasty mildew smell at bay.
Good luck and have fun conquering the "creep black stuff"!
It took my less than an hour, using household cleaners I already had, and now we can take a shower without standing in three inches of water (yes, I know, I let it get too far). You're welcome, honey.
And this is all in a days work for an OCD Housewife Princess.
Friday, February 10
We've been contacted. Please Pray.
Several times during this adoption process Jeremy and I have been contacted by third parties, telling us of mothers thinking about putting their child up for adoption. Each time we offered to sit down and talk with the mothers, but it never happened. I, being the overly emotional self that I am, would ride that roller coaster of emotions- Very excited, hopeful, scared, then ultimately disappointed. This is all experienced usually within a day or two. Then the ultimate came. Our adoption agency contacted us about a possible baby. I rode that roller coaster around and around for a very intense 3 hours. I have never experienced anything like that and don't want to ever again.
So you can see my scarred little heart is a bit more cautious now. This week we were approached by an acquaintance whose girlfriend is pregnant and they are considering adoption due to financial reasons. This is the first time a birth parent has contacted us directly. I didn't even react with excitement. My heart is scared to hope. I considered not sharing with my family and close friends, b/c I didn't want to have to react to their excitement and hope. Jeremy has spoken with this acquaintance several times over the past few days, and gave him my cell phone number to give to his girlfriend. I pray she calls. I don't hope, my heart can't take that, but I pray.
Being the planner that I am, I'm already researching interstate private adoptions and possible attorneys. I can handle the details of this, just not the emotions. I have to remind myself that God has a plan, and His timing is best.
*UPDATE*
As expected, nothing panned out. I'm glad that I was better prepared for it this time, and I'm still praying for both expectant parents.
So you can see my scarred little heart is a bit more cautious now. This week we were approached by an acquaintance whose girlfriend is pregnant and they are considering adoption due to financial reasons. This is the first time a birth parent has contacted us directly. I didn't even react with excitement. My heart is scared to hope. I considered not sharing with my family and close friends, b/c I didn't want to have to react to their excitement and hope. Jeremy has spoken with this acquaintance several times over the past few days, and gave him my cell phone number to give to his girlfriend. I pray she calls. I don't hope, my heart can't take that, but I pray.
Being the planner that I am, I'm already researching interstate private adoptions and possible attorneys. I can handle the details of this, just not the emotions. I have to remind myself that God has a plan, and His timing is best.
*UPDATE*
As expected, nothing panned out. I'm glad that I was better prepared for it this time, and I'm still praying for both expectant parents.
Monday, January 30
Dragons and Steamducks.
Finally getting a job and insurance means that we can finally move forward with the adoption. I feel like this adoption is a full time job by itself since I've spent the last two weeks on paperwork and I'm still not done. However, planning my sister's baby shower, and buying my soon to be born nephew presents has me getting baby fever again. I'm so excited to finally meet the child God has picked out for us, and to see him/her grow!
Thanks to PINTEREST (my new addiction), I've got so many wonderfully unique ideas!
Below are some of the images:
Wednesday, January 11
God works in mysterious ways!
So, I shared how Jeremy and I moved back to GA and how we ended up not having jobs like we thought. One of the many things I did in my job search was sign on with a local staffing agency. They didn't call with anything until after Christmas, and even then it was a two day temp job. I really was relying on myself to find a job when they called me. The lady explained that it was an office/clerical/ management job with a company located in the small town my grandparents and mom lived in, which is right next to my small town. Since it's so small, and we've been living there since my grandparents were born, I was curious as to the name, but when she responded, I was floored. As I was on the phone with her, I was sitting at my grandparents house. My papa built a house on the same land his parents owned. Next to him, his sister and her husband built a house and started a business. They do many things, but the main thing I know they do is build handlebars for Harley Davidson. I told the lady that I could walk to a window and see the business and that it was owned by family. She called them back and I was given the job! I started the next day, not really sure of the job specifics, just thankful for a paying full time job with benefits so we could get our home study for the adoption done. However, during the first day I realized that this job had been spiritually designed with me in mind. It's a very laid back, family oriented office that could really use an OCD overachiever like me. I'm very excited to see how it develops. I love how God works things out. If I could have designed my dream job, it would be something like I'm imagining this will turn out to be. One of the best parts, I get to go to my grandparents house for lunch each day, since they're right next door. Things sure have changed. When we were living in Florida, I had resigned myself to the fact that I would probably not be around my grandparents for their last years of life. Now, I get to see them daily!
Monday, January 2
Life in Georgia
Jeremy and I have been living in Georgia, close to my family for almost two months. We both still don't have full time jobs, but God has provided. I'm cleaning a few houses and Jeremy's been able to work from home part time for the company he left in Florida. Next week he'll be going down to work in the office. I even had a two day temp job at some rubber making plant. That was an experience! Everyone there kept making fun of my because I wore gloves and used about a thousand Clorox cloths to clean my work area. Even though I was working in the offices, it still had that black rubber dust everywhere! The shoes I wore are sitting sole side up in my bedroom until I have time to wash the black off the bottom. Everyone that I worked with during those two days were so nice. I had a great time and the main guy even asked for my contact information in case a job opened up in the future. They described me as 'an interesting experience'. You know I kept them laughing.
Since I haven't found a job yet, I've also been blessed to be able to help out my grandparents. I've worked diligently to get my grandmothers houses clean and have taken them all to the doctor several times. Someone asked me if it bothered me that I was doing so much for them. I responded that I honestly thought I would have to miss their last years on earth because I was living in Florida, and now that I'm not, I'm so happy that I will spend as much time with them as possible to make up for the last 5 years. One of my grandmothers had several mini strokes and now has short term memory problems. For example, she asked me six different times what my sisters and I were doing for New Years. I am praying that God works it out so that I'm able to only work a part time job just so I can spend more time with them.
I can't remember if I've blogged before about how quickly God directed us to our church home in Florida, but it was literally within the first week. I was so worried about finding a new church family, because our last one played such a special part in our lives. I honestly didn't even pray about it, because I didn't have faith that God would do the same thing again. However, I think He did. I'm so undeserving of His love. I get excited about Sunday mornings, and everyone I've met there so far has been very nice. There are two Sunday school classes we are excited to try, and the church even does Discipleship University on Wednesday nights! I know there probably won't be a class that could replace my Fit In Christ Jesus Girls from FBCPC, but I know God will lead us to the right place.
There's not much new going on with the adoption. I really don't feel like we can do a home study until at least one of us has a full time job with insurance. I know that God's timing is best, but my heart has started to grow heavy. I'm surrounded by friends who are pregnant, or who have babies, toddlers, and young children. I thank God for blessing them, and I'm genuinely happy for them. I hear of so many who are in my situation who struggle with jealousy and bitterness, and I'm thankful that I don't. However, my desire to be a mother is more and more at the forefront of my mind. I can't wait to hold my own child in my arms and know that I don't have to give him/her back. I can't wait to implement things I've learned, been taught, or researched. I can't wait to listen for their small cry, knowing they are totally dependent on Jeremy and I, for love, comfort, warmth, food, etc. I can't wait to tell my child that Jeremy and I semi-patiently waited on God to bring just the right one to us.
Since I haven't found a job yet, I've also been blessed to be able to help out my grandparents. I've worked diligently to get my grandmothers houses clean and have taken them all to the doctor several times. Someone asked me if it bothered me that I was doing so much for them. I responded that I honestly thought I would have to miss their last years on earth because I was living in Florida, and now that I'm not, I'm so happy that I will spend as much time with them as possible to make up for the last 5 years. One of my grandmothers had several mini strokes and now has short term memory problems. For example, she asked me six different times what my sisters and I were doing for New Years. I am praying that God works it out so that I'm able to only work a part time job just so I can spend more time with them.
I can't remember if I've blogged before about how quickly God directed us to our church home in Florida, but it was literally within the first week. I was so worried about finding a new church family, because our last one played such a special part in our lives. I honestly didn't even pray about it, because I didn't have faith that God would do the same thing again. However, I think He did. I'm so undeserving of His love. I get excited about Sunday mornings, and everyone I've met there so far has been very nice. There are two Sunday school classes we are excited to try, and the church even does Discipleship University on Wednesday nights! I know there probably won't be a class that could replace my Fit In Christ Jesus Girls from FBCPC, but I know God will lead us to the right place.
There's not much new going on with the adoption. I really don't feel like we can do a home study until at least one of us has a full time job with insurance. I know that God's timing is best, but my heart has started to grow heavy. I'm surrounded by friends who are pregnant, or who have babies, toddlers, and young children. I thank God for blessing them, and I'm genuinely happy for them. I hear of so many who are in my situation who struggle with jealousy and bitterness, and I'm thankful that I don't. However, my desire to be a mother is more and more at the forefront of my mind. I can't wait to hold my own child in my arms and know that I don't have to give him/her back. I can't wait to implement things I've learned, been taught, or researched. I can't wait to listen for their small cry, knowing they are totally dependent on Jeremy and I, for love, comfort, warmth, food, etc. I can't wait to tell my child that Jeremy and I semi-patiently waited on God to bring just the right one to us.
Saturday, November 19
Life Changes
Life has changed so much. Jeremy and I have moved 'home' to Georgia and now live around the corner from one of my sisters. Neither of us have a job, but we are trusting God. How did this all come about?
About a month ago, Jeremy and I received a call from our adoption agency about a baby who had been born two days prior. We needed to give them an answer 'within the hour'. Three emotionally draining hours later, we called and told them no. I think both of our hearts broke a little that day and I know that as one of the hardest things I've ever gone through. It's hard to even explain to those who have never been through something like that how devastating it was.
As a result, Jeremy and I hit our knees before God and prayed diligently. We realized our life needed to change if adoption was what we really wanted to do.
I've never had God pave a path so clearly as He did for Jeremy and I that next week. Within days, we had a place to live and possible jobs back home in Georgia and God confirmed His will for us through a sermon our pastor preached just three days after the big adoption decision. Now, even though neither of the jobs panned out for us, I look back and realize God knew we needed that bit of security in order to step out on faith and move.
So here we are. We will hopefully hear next week from our new adoption agency office about starting a new home study, and then we can start the long process of waiting again. God is so amazing.
About a month ago, Jeremy and I received a call from our adoption agency about a baby who had been born two days prior. We needed to give them an answer 'within the hour'. Three emotionally draining hours later, we called and told them no. I think both of our hearts broke a little that day and I know that as one of the hardest things I've ever gone through. It's hard to even explain to those who have never been through something like that how devastating it was.
As a result, Jeremy and I hit our knees before God and prayed diligently. We realized our life needed to change if adoption was what we really wanted to do.
I've never had God pave a path so clearly as He did for Jeremy and I that next week. Within days, we had a place to live and possible jobs back home in Georgia and God confirmed His will for us through a sermon our pastor preached just three days after the big adoption decision. Now, even though neither of the jobs panned out for us, I look back and realize God knew we needed that bit of security in order to step out on faith and move.
So here we are. We will hopefully hear next week from our new adoption agency office about starting a new home study, and then we can start the long process of waiting again. God is so amazing.
Thursday, October 13
Blessed Abundantly
What a busy few months we've had!
Jeremy and I are so loved! Our entire Sunday school class got together and helped us host a spaghetti lunch on September 18th. I, as usual, was so stressed. Would we run out of food, bread, sauce, etc? To help temper that, I asked my dad and sister to come down from Georgia to help out. Then, my uncle and aunt, and friends Bryan and Melanie also came. My sister described it perfectly when she commented on how many wonderful people we had who loved us enough to do all of that for us. We had the fellowship hall broken down and tables set up after Sunday school in no time flat. We enjoyed 'fellowshiping' (southern baptist word) with everyone while the sauce was bubbling on the stove and the bread was being baked.
Jeremy and I didn't really have any goal in mind as to how much we were hoping to raise. I think I was more focused on being worried about running out of food, or something not going right. So when my sister, who is a math guru, counted the money, I was BLOWN AWAY. We had raised $946! I didn't even know how to begin to say thank you- to God, to everyone who helped out, and to our wonderful church family. So many people stopped by after church just to donate towards our cause. I was overwhelmed at the love!
Then, right after that, Jeremy and I started picking up yard sale donations. People far and wide donated items. I even had a lady who saw our yard sale listing on Craigslist come the night before and bring items for us to sell. We worked hard pricing all the items, and I had to live upstairs all week b/c of the yard sale 'mess' downstairs. But it was all worth it. Saturday, the people started arriving at 5am (yes- it was intense) and didn't stop until 1230pm. We sold almost all of the items and raised $850!! Once again, we had not thought about a particular goal, but we were so overwhelmed by God's provision!
Jeremy and I are so loved! Our entire Sunday school class got together and helped us host a spaghetti lunch on September 18th. I, as usual, was so stressed. Would we run out of food, bread, sauce, etc? To help temper that, I asked my dad and sister to come down from Georgia to help out. Then, my uncle and aunt, and friends Bryan and Melanie also came. My sister described it perfectly when she commented on how many wonderful people we had who loved us enough to do all of that for us. We had the fellowship hall broken down and tables set up after Sunday school in no time flat. We enjoyed 'fellowshiping' (southern baptist word) with everyone while the sauce was bubbling on the stove and the bread was being baked.
Jeremy and I didn't really have any goal in mind as to how much we were hoping to raise. I think I was more focused on being worried about running out of food, or something not going right. So when my sister, who is a math guru, counted the money, I was BLOWN AWAY. We had raised $946! I didn't even know how to begin to say thank you- to God, to everyone who helped out, and to our wonderful church family. So many people stopped by after church just to donate towards our cause. I was overwhelmed at the love!
Then, right after that, Jeremy and I started picking up yard sale donations. People far and wide donated items. I even had a lady who saw our yard sale listing on Craigslist come the night before and bring items for us to sell. We worked hard pricing all the items, and I had to live upstairs all week b/c of the yard sale 'mess' downstairs. But it was all worth it. Saturday, the people started arriving at 5am (yes- it was intense) and didn't stop until 1230pm. We sold almost all of the items and raised $850!! Once again, we had not thought about a particular goal, but we were so overwhelmed by God's provision!
Wednesday, September 14
Adoption Update
Well, I don't even know where to start. Jeremy and I have began our fundraising efforts, and, thanks mainly to my mother and sister, we have raised $2000. With this, we can finally do the last step in the adoption process. When we turn in our profile/portfolio, Bethany Christian Services will begin looking for our precious child. A dear friend of ours has agreed to help us get this portfolio done in a timely manner. I can't believe how easy it's going to be, especially after the nightmare Jeremy and I went through with our adoption website- which is still not done.
I've been feeling very overwhelmed lately with trying to get several things done for the adoption at one time. This morning I started reading the book for my Sunday night bible study, "Too Busy Not to Pray". I have to say- the entire first chapter was such an encouragement to me. It reminded me to step away from the stress and spend time giving it to God- not just the first time, but each and every time I begin to feel overwhelmed. I'm so excited to get started!
I've been feeling very overwhelmed lately with trying to get several things done for the adoption at one time. This morning I started reading the book for my Sunday night bible study, "Too Busy Not to Pray". I have to say- the entire first chapter was such an encouragement to me. It reminded me to step away from the stress and spend time giving it to God- not just the first time, but each and every time I begin to feel overwhelmed. I'm so excited to get started!
Tuesday, August 23
Adoption Adoption Adoption
It seems like all I think about lately is ADOPTION! Jeremy and I finally settled on a website! Even though its still under construction, most of the information is up there for all to see.
EmbraceHope4.Us
I'm very pleased with it, and I really want to figure out how to direct traffic to it. There are so many people who have shown such an interest and willingness to help in any way possible that I have been overwhelmed! As I've stated before, I'm not the most technology savvy person, but this is very important for me, so I'm trying to learn.
My mother, who is very well known back home in Georgia for her cakes, and my sister Taylor came up with their own fundraising idea! They picked out 6 yummy cake recipes and started selling them for $25 each. Their goal was to sell 100 cakes, and be able to raise $1000 for our adoption. ($5 per cake goes to ingredients) I'm so HAPPY to say that they have already mailed me a check for $500 and have a total of 70 cakes ordered! That was just in a month!! God has been so good. I can't tell you how many people from my families' lives and our past that have come forward to help us out. One lady my mom mentioned was our old neighbor. I grew up in the same house for over 21 years, and she was our neighbor for most of that. She had recently found my mom on Facebook, and when she found out about the cake sale, she ordered three!! Once again, and I can't say it enough, God is so good!!
A friend on facebook was hosting a Thirty-One Gifts party to raise money for her adoption, but I didn't know any Thirty-One consultants here in PC. Several of my friends went through a phase (and still are I suppose) of hosting Premier Jewelry Parties. The same consultant did several of the ones I went to. She also attended church with another friend of mine, so I called her up and asked her if she wouldn't mind donating part of my Jewelry Party proceeds to our adoption. She was so thrilled that I asked her! I have had two parties so far and have raised $400!
Jeremy and I have planned a Spaghetti Lunch one Sunday after church, and a Yard sale in late September. I have to be honest and say that I often get discouraged and overwhelmed, but I know that just the devil. I have really had to focus this past month on not letting him get to me. He doesn't want us to give God the glory for all the amazing things He's done so far and all the amazing things He will do! So please, follow via our website all the exciting things going on, and most importantly, please continue to pray for us.
EmbraceHope4.Us
I'm very pleased with it, and I really want to figure out how to direct traffic to it. There are so many people who have shown such an interest and willingness to help in any way possible that I have been overwhelmed! As I've stated before, I'm not the most technology savvy person, but this is very important for me, so I'm trying to learn.
My mother, who is very well known back home in Georgia for her cakes, and my sister Taylor came up with their own fundraising idea! They picked out 6 yummy cake recipes and started selling them for $25 each. Their goal was to sell 100 cakes, and be able to raise $1000 for our adoption. ($5 per cake goes to ingredients) I'm so HAPPY to say that they have already mailed me a check for $500 and have a total of 70 cakes ordered! That was just in a month!! God has been so good. I can't tell you how many people from my families' lives and our past that have come forward to help us out. One lady my mom mentioned was our old neighbor. I grew up in the same house for over 21 years, and she was our neighbor for most of that. She had recently found my mom on Facebook, and when she found out about the cake sale, she ordered three!! Once again, and I can't say it enough, God is so good!!
A friend on facebook was hosting a Thirty-One Gifts party to raise money for her adoption, but I didn't know any Thirty-One consultants here in PC. Several of my friends went through a phase (and still are I suppose) of hosting Premier Jewelry Parties. The same consultant did several of the ones I went to. She also attended church with another friend of mine, so I called her up and asked her if she wouldn't mind donating part of my Jewelry Party proceeds to our adoption. She was so thrilled that I asked her! I have had two parties so far and have raised $400!
Jeremy and I have planned a Spaghetti Lunch one Sunday after church, and a Yard sale in late September. I have to be honest and say that I often get discouraged and overwhelmed, but I know that just the devil. I have really had to focus this past month on not letting him get to me. He doesn't want us to give God the glory for all the amazing things He's done so far and all the amazing things He will do! So please, follow via our website all the exciting things going on, and most importantly, please continue to pray for us.
Tuesday, August 9
venting
So, I haven't posted recently mainly because my husband and I were working on a wordpress blog for our adoption journey, well mainly the fundraising aspect of it. However, it hasn't been going so great. I don't have much blog knowledge as you can see from this one, and wordpress seems to be more complicated than most blog websites. Then, on top of that, my husband makes everything even MORE complicated. He really can't help it- he knows the ins and outs of websites and photoshop- but he also doesn't explain things in such a way that I can understand. I wanted my website up and running weeks ago, and now I feel like I need to start over.
I have been very blessed to find a Premier Designs Jewelry consultant who has graciously offered 50% of her profits from any Premier Designs Jewelry party that either I hosted or someone hosted for me. I raised $150 from my show, and my mother in law (who so kindly hosted a show) will probably raise about as much.
My mother, who is well known for her baking skills back home in GA, and my sister Taylor have agreed to help us raise money by baking cakes and donating most of the proceeds. Their goal was to raise $1000, and they've already raised $500 in just three weeks!!
Then, my very loving grandparents gave us $500. I have been so blessed growing up to have them as an example. They have never been rich, but my papa is very smart with money. I hope one day to be able to bless my granddaughter like they did me.
So I'm trying to focus on the positive and the MANY blessings, but right now all I want is a decent website. I'm so selfish.
I have been very blessed to find a Premier Designs Jewelry consultant who has graciously offered 50% of her profits from any Premier Designs Jewelry party that either I hosted or someone hosted for me. I raised $150 from my show, and my mother in law (who so kindly hosted a show) will probably raise about as much.
My mother, who is well known for her baking skills back home in GA, and my sister Taylor have agreed to help us raise money by baking cakes and donating most of the proceeds. Their goal was to raise $1000, and they've already raised $500 in just three weeks!!
Then, my very loving grandparents gave us $500. I have been so blessed growing up to have them as an example. They have never been rich, but my papa is very smart with money. I hope one day to be able to bless my granddaughter like they did me.
So I'm trying to focus on the positive and the MANY blessings, but right now all I want is a decent website. I'm so selfish.
Wednesday, August 3
Fall 2011 Fashion Trend
PLEATS!!!!
I'm sorry, but I love pleats. Of course, they have evolved from when I wore them in high school.
The knee length skirts really weren't flattering on anyone. And no one really actually wears the Brittn*y Spears school girl look in public.
SO- I'm really looking forward to finding several items for my fall wardrobe that include pleats!
Tuesday, August 2
Time with God
Today is the day to turn over a new leaf.
I vow to make time to spend with God.
I desire to draw near to Him,
because I need Him to draw near to me.
I vow to delve into His word,
in hopes of learning more about Him.
Today is a new day.
Thursday, June 16
Home Study Complete!
This post has been several months in the making. However, I can finally say, OUR HOME STUDY IS COMPLETE!!
I mailed in the last of the paperwork yesterday. It feels so good to be done with it, but there is still so much to do. I've been very discouraged lately. Very. The ups and downs are hard to take even though I know this is the path that God has for us. I know that one day I will be able to use this time in my life to bless someone else, but it sure isn't fun now.
Our next and final step is the profile or the portfolio that is shown to potential birth mothers. Jeremy and I haven't even started on it, and I'm so tired of being the one with the motivation when it comes to this adoption. This to me is the most important step. How are we going to present ourselves in a way that birth moms would choose us over other wonderful families? I know that Jeremy and I will make great parents and we have an amazing relationship, but how do you convey that through pictures and a letter? I plan on spending much time on my knees in prayer. I will try my hardest not to stress over it.
Jeremy has decided that even though God blessed us with money to pay for the adoption, he wants us to raise the $2000 profile fee. I'm struggling b/c I want to take the easy way- the way that gives less glory to God. I'm so thankful that my husband challenges me the way he does. A friend from college just had a Thirty One Gifts party and a percentage of the sales goes towards her adoption. I'm hoping to find a Premier Designs consultant here in Panama City that will do the same for me. I had also had several ideas for fundraising through my church, but I'm not sure that's going to work out. That's another blog for another time.
Anyway, yes, I'm very discouraged, mainly b/c of my own shortcomings, but I'm also so very happy that the home study is complete!!! I can't wait to see God's plan unfold!
I mailed in the last of the paperwork yesterday. It feels so good to be done with it, but there is still so much to do. I've been very discouraged lately. Very. The ups and downs are hard to take even though I know this is the path that God has for us. I know that one day I will be able to use this time in my life to bless someone else, but it sure isn't fun now.
Our next and final step is the profile or the portfolio that is shown to potential birth mothers. Jeremy and I haven't even started on it, and I'm so tired of being the one with the motivation when it comes to this adoption. This to me is the most important step. How are we going to present ourselves in a way that birth moms would choose us over other wonderful families? I know that Jeremy and I will make great parents and we have an amazing relationship, but how do you convey that through pictures and a letter? I plan on spending much time on my knees in prayer. I will try my hardest not to stress over it.
Jeremy has decided that even though God blessed us with money to pay for the adoption, he wants us to raise the $2000 profile fee. I'm struggling b/c I want to take the easy way- the way that gives less glory to God. I'm so thankful that my husband challenges me the way he does. A friend from college just had a Thirty One Gifts party and a percentage of the sales goes towards her adoption. I'm hoping to find a Premier Designs consultant here in Panama City that will do the same for me. I had also had several ideas for fundraising through my church, but I'm not sure that's going to work out. That's another blog for another time.
Anyway, yes, I'm very discouraged, mainly b/c of my own shortcomings, but I'm also so very happy that the home study is complete!!! I can't wait to see God's plan unfold!
Wednesday, June 8
Songs to listen to when you're discouraged
"Bridge Over Troubled Waters"
by Michael W. Smith
When you're weary, feelin' small
When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all.
I'm on your side, Oh, when times get rough
And friends just can't be found.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
When you're down and out, when you're on the street
When evening falls so hard, I will comfort you.
I'll take your part, Oh when darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
Sail on children, sail on by
Your time has come to shine, all their dreams
are on their way
See how they shine, Oh when you need a friend
I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will ease your mind
Like a bridge over troubled waters,
I will ease your mind.
I'll ease your mind.
When you're weary, feelin' small
When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all.
I'm on your side, Oh, when times get rough
And friends just can't be found.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
When you're down and out, when you're on the street
When evening falls so hard, I will comfort you.
I'll take your part, Oh when darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will lay me down.
Sail on children, sail on by
Your time has come to shine, all their dreams
are on their way
See how they shine, Oh when you need a friend
I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled waters
I will ease your mind
Like a bridge over troubled waters,
I will ease your mind.
I'll ease your mind.
“If You Want Me Too”
by Ginny Owens
The pathway is broken
And the signs are unclear
And I don't know the reason why You brought me here
But just because You love me the way that You do
I'm gonna walk through the valley
If You want me to
No I'm not who I was
When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet
So if all of these trials bring me closer to You
Then I will walk through the fire
If You want me to
It may not be the way I would have chosen
When You lead me through a world that's not my home
But You never said it would be easy
You only said I'll never go alone (yeah oh oh)
So when the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear You answer my cries for help
I'll remember the sufferin' Your love put You through
And I will walk through the darkness
If You want me to
'Cause when I cross over Jordan, I'm gonna sing, gonna shout
Gonna look into your eyes and see you never let me down
So take me on the pathway that leads me home to you
And I will walk through the valley if you want me to
Yes, I will walk through the valley if you want me to
And the signs are unclear
And I don't know the reason why You brought me here
But just because You love me the way that You do
I'm gonna walk through the valley
If You want me to
No I'm not who I was
When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet
So if all of these trials bring me closer to You
Then I will walk through the fire
If You want me to
It may not be the way I would have chosen
When You lead me through a world that's not my home
But You never said it would be easy
You only said I'll never go alone (yeah oh oh)
So when the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear You answer my cries for help
I'll remember the sufferin' Your love put You through
And I will walk through the darkness
If You want me to
'Cause when I cross over Jordan, I'm gonna sing, gonna shout
Gonna look into your eyes and see you never let me down
So take me on the pathway that leads me home to you
And I will walk through the valley if you want me to
Yes, I will walk through the valley if you want me to
Wednesday, June 1
Godly Influences
You really don't realize the importance of Godly influences in your life until you either go through a 'wilderness' or until you take a step back to evaluate your life. Recently, I've taken a step back. I quit volunteering for so much stuff, both in my church and among my friends. I cut many things out of my life, such as exercising, to try to make room for more one on one time with God. As I mentioned in the previous post, I'm still not where I want to be, but I'm getting there.
Last week, Jeremy and I went to Chattanooga to visit friends and family. During the very busy two days we were there, I was able to carve out a few hours to spend with a dear friend of mine. She and I became close during college. We are complete opposites in almost everything- except for our passion for God and for knowledge. (Granted, she is SOOOO much more intelligent than I, but I feel so much smarter around her.) During those precious few hours, I was able to discuss God in a way that only happens when she and I get together. Since then, I've made it my prayer to develop this habit in more friendships. I want to be able to have more frequent conversations like that and be the reason someone else wants to spend more time getting to know God.
Also as I've blogged before, I've been going with my friend to her church on Wednesday nights for bible study. It has been such an AMAZING blessing to me to study and fellowship with other ladies who are as excited to learn more about God as I am. We are currently doing another Priscilla Shirer bible study, One in a Million.
It has really forced me to evaluate my life, the things I do and say, the people I hang out with, etc. One day of week one really spoke to me. Here are several key points. (I've paraphrased and copied word for word.)
* God wants us to expect and anticipate more out of our walk with Him which is why He placed a gnawing hunger in our hearts to encounter Him.
* A narrow view of God could prevent us from doing just that. It creates a boundary that limits our experience with Him.
Oh and I LOVED this next point- (little background- Priscilla's father is an amazing pastor in Texas, and she has a strong Biblical upbringing)
* The teaching I have received isn't biblically incorrect (its solid and effective), but what I learned through knowledge.... GOD WANTED TO EXPAND THROUGH EXPERIENCE.
*We must be willing to move out of our comfort zones and church routines if we are to break through to the abundant life Christ offers.
*Pray that God will offer you something different in your relationship with Him than what you've previously known- something that forces you to dig deeper in the Word, have a deeper prayer life, or even search for a supplemental body of believers with which to grow!
Last week, Jeremy and I went to Chattanooga to visit friends and family. During the very busy two days we were there, I was able to carve out a few hours to spend with a dear friend of mine. She and I became close during college. We are complete opposites in almost everything- except for our passion for God and for knowledge. (Granted, she is SOOOO much more intelligent than I, but I feel so much smarter around her.) During those precious few hours, I was able to discuss God in a way that only happens when she and I get together. Since then, I've made it my prayer to develop this habit in more friendships. I want to be able to have more frequent conversations like that and be the reason someone else wants to spend more time getting to know God.
Also as I've blogged before, I've been going with my friend to her church on Wednesday nights for bible study. It has been such an AMAZING blessing to me to study and fellowship with other ladies who are as excited to learn more about God as I am. We are currently doing another Priscilla Shirer bible study, One in a Million.
It has really forced me to evaluate my life, the things I do and say, the people I hang out with, etc. One day of week one really spoke to me. Here are several key points. (I've paraphrased and copied word for word.)
* God wants us to expect and anticipate more out of our walk with Him which is why He placed a gnawing hunger in our hearts to encounter Him.
* A narrow view of God could prevent us from doing just that. It creates a boundary that limits our experience with Him.
Oh and I LOVED this next point- (little background- Priscilla's father is an amazing pastor in Texas, and she has a strong Biblical upbringing)
* The teaching I have received isn't biblically incorrect (its solid and effective), but what I learned through knowledge.... GOD WANTED TO EXPAND THROUGH EXPERIENCE.
*We must be willing to move out of our comfort zones and church routines if we are to break through to the abundant life Christ offers.
*Pray that God will offer you something different in your relationship with Him than what you've previously known- something that forces you to dig deeper in the Word, have a deeper prayer life, or even search for a supplemental body of believers with which to grow!
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