Sunday Services in the New Building

 Wow! Another week has zipped by! Seeing that it is Saturday and almost time for church again, I figured I better let you know how our services went last week. We had a great day in our new building, filled with food, fellowship, worship, and people! It was such a blessing to be able to enjoy and use this beautiful space that the Lord has provided. It still seems a bit surreal that it is really ours (the church's, not Matt's and mine)!

Here's some things that I am thankful for regarding last Sunday Services and our new building:

1. Seeing the church full of excited, happy people
2. Having enough classrooms for everyone, with teachers and kiddos enjoying their new space
3. A safe place for the kids to play outside (and not worry that they are in the street!)
4. Nice bathrooms (the property has 4!!!)
5. A real nursery for my Brenna to be in
6. A beautifully decorated international dinner with LOTS of yummy food
7. The spirit of unity amongst the people, along with a willingness to pitch in and help take care of their new church building

Singing Sunday School Songs

Look at those big helpers!

My "little stars" class--such handsome little men

 By the way...after church the other teacher and I (pictured above) decorated our classroom--it looks so cute! Will try to get a pic of it tomorrow! :)

"God's Treasures" Class

"Bible Explorers" Class

"Followers of Christ" Class

Adult/Teen Class

Argentina table

Decorating the China table

Mexico table and some of the FOOD!

FULL auditorium! :)

It was a wonderful and blessed day and I know that there will be many more in the future! Can't wait for tomorrow!

Finding New Life

As we know, Easter has recently passed us by, but being that I kinda had a baby the very next day I didn't really get to give you the low down on our Easter and the way that the Lord has made His Resurrection so meaningful to me this year.

The Wednesday before Easter we had a hum-dinger of a tornado-filled storm pass through our area. Where we live this has NEVER happened before and we were caught off-guard. Unfortunately, we, along with thousands of people, lost power and running water. Ours came back on in the wee hours on Easter morning. Many are still waiting.

So much for having the laundry all caught up before baby's arrival, huh?! Oh well, it was quite the adventure for us, and made us oh-so-thankful to have not been severely affected--our lives and home were untouched. That's the most important thing, not little inconveniences for a few days.

However, the story gets SO much better. God always seems to find a way to be glorified in the midst of the storm and this definitely rang loud and clear in my ears that Wed. night. When we lost power our 2 year old ball of energy, Ethan, wasn't to thrilled about being stuck in the dark and surrounded by all those stormy sounds. Clara wasn't real happy about it either. As I was lighting candles and reassuring them that everything was ok, I was quick to point out something that we often go over in Sunday School: We don't have to be afraid, because Jesus is always with us.

Our conversation went something like this:

Me-- Jesus takes good care of us.

Clara-- Yeah, but not the bad guys and police (think she meant robbers), they don't get to go to Heaven.

Me-- Actually, being good or bad doesn't have anything to do with going to Heaven. We all do bad things sometimes, but to go to Heaven we have to believe that Jesus is the only way that we can get there and ask Him to take us.

Clara-- I want to do that someday, because I want Jesus to take me to Heaven.

WOW!!! Inside my heart started to race and I thought, "Is she really ready to make this decision and accept Jesus?!" Of course, I quickly called Matt over and filled him in on what was going on. He took Clara aside while I took Ethan out of the picture so they could have a chat. How I wish I could have heard every word that was exchanged between daughter and daddy!

After a few minutes, Clara came to me with a big smile on her face and said that she wanted to tell me something. She happily told me that she had "prayed to Jesus that He would take her to Heaven someday". How that blessed my heart!

As soon as possible I talked to hubby and grilled him for all the details of what had happened. He assured me that he had explained everything thoroughly and that she understood that the only way she could get to Heaven was by Jesus and that she prayed on her own that Jesus would take her there.

Often since then she makes comments such as, how "full of joy" she is, because she knows that Jesus is going to take her to Heaven. Glory!

Happy Mama and Clara--April 4, 2012

So, you can see how a few days without power and water seem like nothing in comparison to my beautiful little girl putting her faith and trust in Our Almighty Saviour. I am so thankful that Jesus laid down His life on the cross and then took it back again 3 days later so that at this Easter time my precious daughter could find  new life through Him!

My 1st "New Year's Bloggy Resolution"...

Ok, so it's 2012...really?!?! Could this be possible?! Lots I could say about that and how quickly 2011 whisked on by me, but...

What I really want to say is...Wowzers! Who'd of thought that I would hit 2012 with my 30 Thankful Days still unfinished. Yah, sad, isn't it?!

This is definitely NOT from a lack of things to be thankful for. So, my 1st New Year's Resolution in Blog Land is to FINISH that up.

Here it is--the abbreviated version of my 30 Thankful Days {#13-30}.

Bare with me...I will try to keep this short and sweet ;)
Ok, {deep breath} GO!


#13. A wonderful Christmas with my sweet lil' family {and that it is over, too!}
(Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Christmas, but it sure makes me miss my family, esp. this year!)

#14. 2012--A year full of changes for our family and free of mistakes...well, almost. Glad to start with a clean slate and see what the Lord will do with us this year.

#15. 26 weeks prego.--get to meet my baby girl in 14 weeks (or less!!!)

#16. Get to see my family and introduce them to our 2 youngest in just 6 MONTHS!!!

#17. Our Pastor and his family are back from their furlough {and the church is still in tact in spite of their absence!}

#18. My daughter is moving out of my Sunday School class...this makes me a bit sad, but so proud of how big she is and how much she is learning about the Lord.

#19. Ethan's precious and mischievous smile, his little dimples, and the new sprinkling of tiny freckles on his chubby cheeks. ♥

#20. My growing, alien life-form, baby bump ♥

#21. The kiddie pool my kids got for Christmas--it has provided hours of fun for all of us already!

#22. Camp Season starts next week! Much to do, but looking forward to seeing God work and hearing my hubby preach!

#23. New books and yummy treats from my Mom and Dad

#24. My hubby loves me...even when I am hot, hormonal, fat, and just plain grumpy.

#25. Ethan's rendition of "Jingle Bells" --"Jiggle Bews, Jiggle Bews WAAAYYY!"

#26. Friends that stick by the stuff and encourage me from across the miles--be it from blogs, Facebook, notes, emails, or phone calls.

#27. Christmas cards in the mail--especially new photos to put up on the fridge! They always make me smile.

#28. Air conditioning in our office--my own little haven from the heat!

#29. Food in the fridge and cupboards {hmmm...now what to make for dinner? lol}

#30. That God hasn't given up on me yet! I'm still  "in the making".

WHEEW!!!

Happy New Year!

30 Thankful Days {#12}

Hey! Before you banish me to the ends of the earth forever for taking soooooo long to get my "30 Thankful Days" in, allow me to point out a couple things...

#1. I NEVER specified that those 30 days would coincide with the 30 days of November {even if that was my original idea}

#2. I am a busy prego. mama with 2 littles, lots of church and school activities and the normal, chaotic Christmas frenzy topped off by boiling hot temps. Sooo...just give me a little break, k?! {ha!}

#3. It's my blog and I get to do it my way! {Neener-neener}

Ok, I digress...

Today I am super-dy-duper-dy thankful for:

#12. A Mini-Vaca. from my Kiddos/

Shopping Date with Hubby

A recent, rare pic of just me and my ♥

I love them to death. Really, I DO! 

And sometimes I enjoy them so much that I think I might just go InSaNe!!!

Once in a while {or in my case a very rare blue moon} I get the chance to escape my house and babies, just for a little bit, and recharge my batteries. 

NO "octopus arms" needed to carry the million things that come with kids or escort said kids safely to their destination.

NO hefting and un-hefting of big lug kids at 30 sec. intervals.

NO diaper bag.

NO strapping and unstrapping of munchkins in car seats.

NO multiple trips to the "little ladies' room". {Ok, maybe, but today it is the tiny princess in my tummy's fault}

NO whining, fussing, crying, pleading for toys, candy, etc.

NO sharing of treats with greedy sugar goblins.

On the other hand...

Adult conversation...I think I had forgotten what that was.

Holding hands with my hubby.

Eating a WHOLE...well, anything!

Roaming stores without a care in the world--without wondering what my kids are getting into {aka. breaking!}, without wondering if they are safe and still at my side.

Part of me would like to tell you about the wonderful, romantic, relaxing outing that we had today. How hubby and I got all "gussied up" and enjoyed a beautiful candlelight dinner in an elegant restaurant and then strolled along under a sky full of stars. 

But, it didn't actually go like that. {You're shocked, right?!}

We went to class. {Only 1 more left!}

Then, instead of taking our babysitter home, we took ourselves to the store to do Christmas shopping. Yep, for those "snotty-nosed rugrats" that I was trying to get away from. 

First we hit a couple of gas stations attempting to find that all-elusive fuel for our car.

We got a snack at McDonald's and searched the aisles of the nearby toy store. Then we went into a bigger store to buy such glamour items as diapers, eggs, butter, and yogurt.

On the way out, hubby bought me a toffee crunch ice cream bar, and I admit, I didn't get to eat the whole thing...but I got to share it with my sweetheart.♥

On the road home...one more gas station where we had success! Gasoline at the gas station, who would've thought?!

Keepin' it real. Multi-tasking. Enjoying each other's company just the same. The day was special because I shared it with my best friend. Those are the things that really matter. 

Oh, and getting Christmas presents for the munchkins is pretty important, too. Don't believe me?! Ask my Clara and Ethan :)

30 Thankful Days {#11}

Christmas! It's coming--THIS MONTH!!! Where has the year gone?! I say that every year and yet December always seems to sneak up on me, especially with little kids growing up before my very eyes. The days seem to slip by so quickly.

I am thankful for Christmas, of course, primarily for it's true meaning. Christ came to Earth as a wee little babe. He came "to seek and to save that which was lost". "For God so loved the world..." But mostly, God loved ME! Jesus was born in a manger for ME!

#11. The CHRIST of CHRISTMAS

So thankful that I know the Christ of Christmas. He saved me by His wonderful matchless grace at the ripe old age of 5. I am blessed beyond measure to barely remember my life without Him as the most integral part of it. He walks beside me everyday. He's always there for me and understands me better than I understand myself. He's my very best friend and I can go to Him night or day--never a dropped call, busy signal, or bad connection either. 

I also greatly enjoy all the other fun things we do to celebrate Christmas. The exchanging of gifts with those we love, feasting on all kinds of Christmas goodies, laughing and playing, and most of all, seeing the shining bright eyes of my children and watching the wonder through their eyes. 

We don't have some of the typical Christmas things down here, like mounds of snow and freezing temps. No gallivanting in the drifts nor tingling sensation of thawing fingers and toes. No wrapping ice cube-like hands around steaming mugs of hot cocoa or throwing another log on the fire is needed here. {Honestly, can't say I am too heartbroken to be missing the cold part, but Clara would LOVE to have some white fluffy stuff!} Last year, Christmas was one of the HOTTEST and muggiest days of the season, reaching nearly 100 degrees. Nice and toasty, don't you think?!

Our Christmas includes sprinklers, watermelon, and sticky, drippy popsicles. Our Christmas calls for T-shirt and flip-flop attire. Our Christmas is a scorcher where you really don't want to turn that oven on to add more heat to your all ready sauna-like kitchen and house.

BUT, we DO have the same Christ at Christmas. The same joy and celebration of His birth. We DO have the same Bible to read the miraculous Christmas story to our children. We DO have food, friends, and family. We DO have a home filled with love and laughter. We DO have plenty to be thankful for. We DO plan to have a fabulous {albeit hot and sticky} Christmas! We hope you do, too!

30 Thankful Days {#10}

Today we had {shrug of dread} language class.

Thinking -- "Ugh! School again! Do I have to go?"

Yes, I know I am worse than kids. But honestly, aren't I supposed to be done with this stage of my life by now?! Not to mention that at home I am "Teacher Mom" attempting to get those {pesky} letters and numbers ingrained into my 4 yr. old's head. Nevertheless, I am a student, too. I guess in a way it's a good reminder that no matter how many years old young you are, there's always something more to learn. Trust me, learning a language gives you daily reminders of that.

So, "hi-ho-hi-ho it's off to school we go." But even though me and language school often have a love/hate relationship, deep down I am very thankful for our language classes and teacher.

#10. School Days, good ol' Golden Rule Days

I am glad that the Lord has given me a mind that {although it may not seem like it at times} is capable of learning another language. Yes, it takes time, LOTS of time and can be oh-so-very frustrating. It takes a lot of patience not only from the poor souls that are struggling to listen to you and decipher what in the world you are talking about, but also patience with yourself. You have to allow yourself to put it all out there and make mistakes. After all, you can't "learn from your mistakes" if you don't make a few in the first place. And you have to give yourself time to soak it all in and put it in to practice. 'Cuz it sure doesn't happen over night. BUT, thankfully, little by little, step by step, day by day, and word upon word, like pieces of a big mysterious puzzle it starts to come together, take shape, and actually make some sense. Both to your ears and hopefully your words to others' ears as well. :)

I am thankful that hubby and I have not given up when it has been hard. Perseverance pays and we are finally starting to reap the sweet rewards of all our time and hard work.

I am thankful that our teacher has been kind, put up with us, and not belittled us, but always tried to help us to improve and provide us with the necessary tools and encouragement to do so.

And it looks like this phase of our journey will soon be coming to an end. Not the learning and improving part {I hope}, but the actual class part. My first reaction is -- to jump up and down around the room and do some serious "happy dance" celebration. I think ice cream definitely needs to be involved as well. But, on the other hand, it kinda scares me, too. I mean, to think that I won't have my teacher to run to with all my silly grammar and/or culture questions. She has been so great about not only teaching us Spanish, but teaching us about how life really is here in Argentina. So, a part of me is sad to think that we have to be "all grown up now" and out there speaking Spanish and "going it alone". It's kind of like being a little birdie pushed from its nest -- let's hope we can fly...errrrrr....speak and keep going forward in Spanish and in the Lord's work. ;)

30 Thankful Days {#9}

My mind wanders often to my family. My family that is so far away. As I go about my daily tasks, any of a million things brings sweet memories flooding to me. How precious they all are. How much I miss them. The whole crazy bunch. Today I am especially thinking of...

#9. The In-Laws

Not just my amazing mom and dad-in-law. But, all of Matt's family which I get to call mine, too. I am so glad to have such a wonderful relationship with his family. I truly do think of them as "our family", not "his" and "hers". They are so special to me.

Just after we were married, there was that transition period and wondering of what to call the "in-laws". And for me, a wonderful thing happened. Without even thinking about it and as naturally as anything, I just called them "Mom" and "Dad". They really didn't have a choice in the matter. It just came out and stuck. Why? Because they ARE another mom and dad to me and I love, trust, and depend on them as such. They are great examples of a Christian home and marriage and serve the Lord faithfully in their church. They are the same every day of the week, no Sunday-only Christians here. They are so real and down to earth and I am proud to be their "adopted" daughter.

Then there's the rest of the crew. I inherited a wonderful sister {finally got one of those!}. Yep, we have had our ups and downs, as all good sisters do, but we are the best of friends and I miss her terribly. Missy and I are the same age {ok, she would quickly point out that I am one whole month older! ha!} She has a fabulous husband that compliments her perfectly. We both have 2 rugrats cute kiddos, a girl and then a boy. Our boys are less than 2 months apart and haven't met yet--Whaaaa!!!  Needless to say we have all this in common and so much more. Plus, we both think that her older brother is pretty amazing! {Wink!} Whenever we all get together we have a blast and there is no such thing as a dull moment! I love it and wouldn't have it any other way!

I even got another little brother out of the deal. Evan is as laid back as they come. Even more so than Matt {and that's saying something!}. However, I think I have grown on him over the years and he has no problem giving me a hard time, usually about my choice of sports teams. He and his wife recently added a sweet little boy to our family, too. I can't wait to meet our newest nephew in person. He's such a sweet little guy.

I miss the nieces and nephews. I miss holding them as tiny babies and watching them grow up. I miss seeing the interaction between them and my own kiddos. I just know that my Ethan and Missy's Ian would be thicker than thieves and into all sorts of mischief! And Clara and Ava--best of buds, for sure!

I miss birthdays and holidays surrounded with the ones I love. I miss enjoying the warmth of the farm house and the family gathered around.

I also know that right now I am right where I am supposed to be and I am content.
But, before you have a pity party for me, let me say I am so thankful for each one of them and the wonderful memories that we have made together. Time spent with family is time well spent. I look forward to being with them all next year and all the fun things we will do together. There are many more memories to be made and I know that I will cherish each one, just as I cherish these sweet people that I am privileged to call my family.

30 Thankful Days {#8}

Today I made it to the 1/2 way mark in my pregnancy. That's right, I am 20 WEEKS TODAY!!! WOOHOOO!!! {Happy Dance!!}

#8. 20 WEEKS!!

I know, I know, I've still got a long and hot 20 more weeks to go. Lots more wait gain and swelling to look forward to. BUT, I also get to feel my sweetheart kicking and rolling around in there, listen to her tiny heartbeat, and see her up on the screen a few more times. Those things will help carry me through to that wonderful day when I get to hold her in my arms for the first time. That will make all the sleepless, uncomfortable nights with multiple trips to the bathroom, all the days of tiredness and struggling to get up and down and just plain MOVE, worthwhile. Yep, it will be worth every bit of the nauseousness, puking, extreme tiredness and general discomfort. Can't wait to see that precious face and feel that incredibly soft baby skin against me. Can't wait to count those 10 tiny fingers and 10 bitsy piggy toes. 

And today, I am 1/2 way to that goal!! :))

30 Thankful Days {#7}

(I know, I know, I am SOOOOOOOO behind...don't scold just yet, k?!)

#7. Church

I'm gettin' ready to go...how 'bout you?!

Saturdays are great, because they are followed by Sunday and filled with Sunday preparations.

Making sure everything is in order and my Sunday School bag is filled up with all kinds of surprises to capture my little stars' attention.

Ironing and laying out all the fancy church clothes to be put on in the morning.

Stocking the diaper bag and checking it twice.

I ♥ church.

I ♥ the people here that have accepted us and stretched their patience with our language "growing pains".

I ♥ that when I go to church it is like coming home. No matter where I am or what church I am visiting... whether here or in the states...getting together with like-minded believers to worship the Lord in song and listen to a message from God's Word...we share a common bond in Christ and it's a wonderful thing!
I ♥ letting the Lord speak to me through His Word...always more to learn and more growin' to do!

I ♥ the wonderful churches that I have been privileged to be a part of.

• BBC of Prairie du Chien, WI ~~ my home sweet home, where I first learned Bible songs as a tiny tot, sat through tons of Sunday school classes and Jr. churches listening to the amazing stories in the Bible, accepted Christ as my Saviour during VBS and grew up in the church and school. Can't say enough about the faithfulness of my dear church family -- through it all!

• Northwest BBC of Elgin, IL ~~ my college church and sending church, so many great people there holding the ropes and lifting us up in prayer
• BBC of Dubuque, IA ~~ hubby's parents' church, they took me in as one of their own while were on deputation and I love the time we were able to spend there and the things that I have learned from the godly example of Pastor and Mrs. Stark and their 50 years in the ministry
• Independent BBC of Moreno, Buenos Aires, Argentina ~~ What a ride! We are having a great time being involved in the ministries here and gaining experience working with these wonderful people. So glad that they put up with us and have become our Argentine family!

God is good and I am thankful that I get to go to His House!
 

 "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD."

Psalm 122:1

30 Thankful Days {#6}

Today, being veteran's day, naturally makes me extra thankful for...

#6. FREEDOM!

Freedom that we enjoy and take for granted in the good ol' U.S. of A. Freedom that others who have gone on before have paid a heavy price for. For many the ultimate price.

I am proud to count my 2 grandpas among those amazing men called veterans. I am proud of my brother, who although we do not see eye to eye on many things, serves proudly today as a United States Marine Sgnt. 

I am proud to be an American. I am proud to have felt the liberty that comes with living in rural America and taste its sweetness. That's one of the things that I dearly miss. The feeling of safety and security that comes with abiding within her glorious shores. I know what it is like to live abroad and live with suspicion and doubt. I no longer take that wonderful thing that is true Freedom for granted as I once did. And I am thankful that I have an ever-present, all powerful God to rely on and protect me, no matter in what continent I reside.

So, I thank God today for freedom and all those that keep America free. I am thankful for freedom to worship Him, both in America, here in Argentina, and always in my heart.

30 Thankful Days {#5}

Ok, here goes...trying to get caught up a bit...

I am super-duper lovin'...

wait for it...

#5. SPRING!!!

Yep, that's right, SPRING!! Opposite end of the world = opposite seasons. And yes, I do miss all the traditional "Thanksgiving feel" of fall in the air, but I am pretty happy with lovely springtime, too!

Sunshine, longer days, gorgeous flowers and bright green grass in every yard, listening to all those crazy birds out there singin' there song, letting my kids romp and play out on the patio {aka. a few moments of peace for mama}, watching them get dirty and love it, feeling the gentle breeze and the suns warm rays as I pause for a few moments, need I go on?!

Seeing to whole world come alive again is such a glorious and wondrous thing to behold. The word that comes to mind is = BLISS, sweet spring blissfulness! 

I am determined to make the most of these lovely days, "stop and smell the roses", and enjoy life!

30 Thankful Days {#4}

Wow, how quickly my busy life can catch up with me and get me behind!! Here it is the 8th of November, and I am on #4...oops! Oh well, like most of my self-inflicted chaos, it will straighten out and I will get caught up...eventually. ;)

Today, I am thankful for:

#4. My Handsome, Hardworking Hubby

I know it sounds so cliche, but honestly, what would I do without him?!?! I truly cannot imagine.

There's no one else I would follow 5,000 miles from home. There's no one else that I trust that much. And he hasn't failed me. In the time that we have been here, he has proven my strong anchor, provider, protector, and so much more. He is my confidant, my best friend, and my love. He's my bug-slayer, lawn-mower, car-maintainer, taxi-driver. When I feel all alone, I turn and he is there. Always beside me, loving me, reassuring and guiding me. He has abundant patience with me and all of my crazy schemes/ideas/projects, my moods and {grumpy, grouchy, downright ugly} attitudes. He has never lost his temper at me or my kiddos, but definitely knows how to put/keep me in my place when I need it.

Little did he know when we moved here that his days would be filled with, "Honey, we don't have any meat, could you run to the meat store?" "Honey, we are out of cheese again, would you mind...?" "Babe, we really need diapers, etc., can you take us to the store today?" 

Not to mention the "hurry up and wait" game that he plays almost daily on our behalf. Sometimes I think it frustrates me more than it does him, and he's the one actually doing the waiting. Wait in line to pay bills, do {endless} paperwork, at all the little stores, hunt down {super expensive} gas for the car--yes, I mean visiting multiple gas stations in hopes that one of them will actually have gas that day, and the list goes on and on. Just accomplishing one seemingly simple task can take the good part of the day. My hubby does it all, he doesn't grumble and complain, or get upset, he doesn't come home and take it out on me or the kids. He takes care of all these "little" things and much more, and he does it for me.

He cares about people and is not afraid to get his hands dirty. He sees a need and he does his very best to fill it, whether at church or in our neighborhood. He is kind and unselfish with his time, talents, and treasures. He chases down the neighbor's dog, he warns others when we run out of water, he loans tools, etc. He is trustworthy and dependable. If he says he'll get it done, you can rest easy, it WILL get done. 

He wants to see the work of the Lord go forward. He has goals. We are not just here, biding time, working hard to learn Spanish and gain experience in the culture and ministry for nothing. We want to be a blessing and lead others to the Lord. He has set out to be a missionary since he was 12 years old and taken the steps necessary, with the Lord's help and guidance, to make that happen. He seeks the Lord's direction in the decisions that we make and is frugal and wise with our finances. He looks and plans for the future, both for his family and church.

He is an amazing daddy. He loves his babies and is not afraid to play ponies with Clara {shhh!! don't tell him I told ya ;) } or give "horsey rides". He gets right down on their level and has a blast. He plays baseball with Clara and catch with Bubs. He pushes them on the swings, buys them ice cream, does Bible story time, teaches them songs, gives oodles of hugs and kisses, and is there to tuck them in every night. He gives them TIME! What more could kids ask for! They are so blessed to call him "papa"!! Almost as blessed as I am to call him "husband" and MINE! :)

30 Thankful Days {#3}

   
Packages, surprises, goodies, and presents!! Doing a "happy dance" at my house!

Check out the size of those boxes!!

Getting ready to dig into all those clothes!

NEW SHOES!!

Today, I am feeling very thankful for my amazingly generous...

#3. Parents

They are simply "THE BEST" and I was especially reminded of that today as we received 2 gigantamus boxes from them. One was stuffed full of nothing but clothes, clothes, and more clothes for my growing kiddos. Such a blessing and relief to know that they won't be running around naked this summer after all. ;) The other box had all kinds of goodies like Peanut Butter, Ranch dressing mix, candy, birthday and Christmas presents, etc. All kinds of stuff that say, "I love you and am thinking of you". Boy, do they know me and what I like, too! 

Obviously, I am not only thankful for my dear parents because of these packages, they were just a really nice and really big reminder. Beyond that, they are truly a great example of a wonderful marriage and faithfulness to God and church, no matter what comes their way. They truly inspire and encourage me everyday and I am blessed to call them MY mom and dad.

My FAVORITE Find & Part of my Birthday Present!

Thank you, Lord, for good and godly parents that raised me in church and to serve You. Thank you for the sacrifices they made to bring me to where I am today. Thank you that, although we are far apart, I know that they are behind me supporting me with their love and prayers daily. When you gave me my parents, you gave me far more than I deserve.  

The Super Secret Stash--Shhhh!!!

30 Thankful Days {#2}

Today, as I can now confidently look in the mirror without feelings of "ugh", "ick", and/or groanings of embarrassment, I am feeling very thankful for:

#2. Modern Conveniences/Technology

You see, I made a little trip today, a very overdue trip to a little place of pampering. A little oasis from kiddos where I sit and watch the workers do their magic and my hair turn from a color that I don't much care for {to say the least!} back to a nice rich brown. How I wish it would come out from the roots that way. It used to. Once upon a time {quite} a few years back now. But, since things seem to be progressing scarily in the other direction at least I can run to this place of hair refuge and restoration, more commonly known as the hair salon.

I realize that "back in the day" this would not have been an option and therefore, I am thankful. But, not only for the powers that come in that goopy/stinky stuff they smear on my rebel hair, but for all the many perks of living in this modern age. I know that there are advantages to living in the "olden days"--a slower, simpler life style and less materialism and worldly influence to name a few, but oh the blessings of the wonderful commodities that surround us. 

Just think of it--as I sit here in a room illuminated by electric lights, typing away on my laptop, with an optical mouse, printer/scanner/copier, external hard drive, CD burner, and digital camera all within arms length. Plus the amazing "connect-ability" that I find in places such as Facebook, Skype, and "bloggy land" which allow me to stay in touch with my family and friends with ease.That's just what I can see from my computer chair. 

If I wander the rest of my house I am met with such modern marvels as a portable DVD player, cordless telephones, cell phones, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, stove/oven, indoor plumbing, hot running water, washer and dryer {can I get an AMEN!!}, etc., etc. And outside sits a working vehicle, too. I am sure I left out something{s}, but I think you get the idea. I am thankful for each of these things that I so often take for granted and glad that I live in this day and age where I have so many things to make my daily tasks easier and faster. 

So, it might be nice to go back to those "Little House on the Prairie" days, but I think I will stay right where I am at with my lovely modern conveniences all around me. Wouldn't you?! 

30 Thankful Days {#1}

November 1st...How did that sneak up on me so quickly? It's especially hard to get in the Thanksgiving Holiday swing of things when the days are warm and bright, spring flowers {and allergies} abound and the birdies are happily chirping outside my window. Not that I am complainin', mind ya, just feels a bit off kilter without the "traditional" crunchy fall leaves, crisp days, pumpkins, apples, etc.

Nevertheless, I know deep down that the calendar is not lying to me. It really is that time again and my mind turns to all the goodness of God that I have seen manifested in my life, especially this past year. It's time to think and thank more...to really put some extra effort into giving God and those dear loved ones around me, too, my gratitude and praise.

So, in no particular order, I want to share some thanksgiving thoughts with you this month. I may even get carried away and share more than 1 per day. Hey, you will forgive me won't you?! Would love to hear from your thankful ♥, too.

#1. Sweet Babies

I can say "sweet", because of course we all know that every bundle of joy is a sweet and precious gift.

I ♥ babies.

I ♥ the 2 precious "babies" that are {aheeeemmm...supposed to be} sleeping in the next room. They aren't really tiny babies anymore, but will always be MY babies.

I ♥ my absolutely adorable less-than-1-week-old nephew, Andrew John. I finally got to "meet" him via Skype this morning and I confess, I fell instantly in love with his sweet little face and parted "man hair". He's a picture of perfection and I would just ♥ to snatch him up and cuddle.

And most of all, I ♥ this new life that is growing inside me. And yes, although it may not seem evident to the outside world, let me tell ya, she {and I} are definitely growing! I cannot wait to feel her move inside me, to see her precious face, and to caress her unbelievably soft skin, and smell her newborn scent. As any mama knows they grow and change so much, so fast, I want to cherish every single moment with this beautiful gift the Lord is giving me. My 3rd wee babe and 2nd princess.

Thank you, Lord, for babies, most of all for MY babies. Thank you for entrusting 3 precious treasures into my care.

Getting up there...

I know I have been waaaay out of touch lately...between nasty sinus cold and equally nasty morning all day sickness...it has been a rough month or 2. Thankfully, at 14 weeks today, I think I/we are on the mend. It's so good to feel good! :)

Ok, now I am going to admit it...It's my birthday. And here you thought it was just Columbus Day. My mom says that Columbus discovered America and that when I was born I discovered a new world of my own, too. Corny, I know. That's how we roll in my family. :)

Anyway, don't worry if you didn't know/remember...I am not offended...honest. {lol}

Laying all seriousness aside, I am not digging for compliments or birthday wishes. I have actually been very pleasantly overwhelmed with them today and am feeling very content and blessed as I sit here enjoying these precious moments of quiet. {Happy sigh} Peace and reflection...it does one good, don't you agree?!

Anyways, I was thinking back over my {28...sssshhhhhh!} years of life. My, but the Lord has surely been good to me. Sounds cliche, but it's so true. The older I get the more I understand this and the more I have to be thankful for.

So, here's my birthday thankful list--in no particular order and by no means complete either.

• Parents that first, love the Lord and each other enough to stick together and provide me with a wonderful, stable Christian home to grow up in--40 years and counting!!
• A loving church family that cared about a little 5 year old girl and other kids like me enough to have VBS and lead me to my Saviour
• An amazing husband that takes care of me and our babies and treats me waaaaaaay better than I deserve {after all, just putting up with me is a chore!}
• All my family and friends across the globe that sent me birthday greetings and have made me feel so loved and special today
• The joys of being a mother and watching the world through my littles' eyes
• Hugs, squeezes, pats, "uga-mugas", kissies, and lots of "Happy Birtdays" from my darlings ♥
• A gorgeous bouquet of fall-colored flowers that presently graces my table                                          {I told ya he spoils me! ♥}
• Having my health and energy back {well, it's getting there, anyways}
• The beautiful unborn child that grows within me, whom I already love and can't wait to me ♥
• Rain drops on the roof, and not in my house ;)
• The privilege of being a missionary here in Argentina and witnessing his never-failing hand of grace and mercy in my life....there's just something about living thousands of miles away from your continent, country, family, language, etc., etc., that gives you a new outlook on life and dependence on the Lord in the so many things that you used to take for granted
• God's protection on me and my family, both here and afar
• Opportunities to grow and serve in my church here and a wonderful group of ladies who are such a blessing and help to me
• 28 years of LIFE, may I live everyday to the fullest for HIM!!

The list is endless, my heart is full...good night, dear friends!

4 years of Smiles!

I remember...oh, so many, many things...

I remember going to the hospital and after thankfully a short and fairly easy delivery {water births are the BEST!!}, meeting my sweetie girl for the first time. We came to the hospital, like all 1st time parents-to-be, not really knowing what was in store for us. On top of that, we came with 2 names picked out--Clara Grace and Seth Matthew, because we had decided to be surprised and didn't know that we were having a Clara yet. Well, actually, if you ask my hubby, he was pretty sure it would be a girl. With both of my pregos. he has had a dream and very vividly saw what gender baby we would have. So far, he's 2 for 2! Stinker! I thought it was us girls that were supposed to have "women's intuition"  and all that?!?

Anywho, our darling bundle of joy came into the world on Wednesday, June 6, 2007, at 7:13 p.m. She weighed in at a whopping 6 lbs. 15 oz. and was 19 1/4 in. long. Her sweet little head was covered with a good amount of dark brown hair that curled when wet and had her daddy's beautiful blue eyes. She was a picture of perfection, sweetness, and all things girly. And to me, she still is!!

Just moments out of the oven!

♥ Our first family pic! ♥ {Yes, I know how exhausted I look!}

A few hours old and very alert!

Home from the hospital!

♥ My all time favorite pic of Hubby and baby Clara ♥

1st Father's Day--1 1/2 weeks old

We enjoyed our little sweetie so much that we decided to take her "show on the road", a.k.a. deputation. She made a big splash, let me tell ya!

My favorite pic of me and my baby girl! ♥

Such a happy, relaxed baby!

Check out those chubby cheeks!! ♥

Lovin' Life, Lookin' Cute!

Playing with mama!

Lookin' Mischievous!

6 month/Christmas pics

First piggy tails and waving!

First time to swing!

First Easter--9 months

Her shirt says: "Everybody Loves a Blue Eyed Girl!"

Lighting up the room with her smile!

Time at Grandpa G.'s farm--doing laundry and playing with cats = FUN!

One cool chick!

And before we knew it, it was birthday time.

"Happy Birthday toooooo Yoooooouuuu!!"

Showing us that she is "1" year old!

1 year pic

Family pics on her 1st birthday!

And somehow, 1 turned into 2.

Daddy/Daughter moment on her 2nd birthday

Which quickly jumped to 3.

3 year old "glamour shot"

Until we find ourselves here, with our "baby" girl turning 4!!! I know what you are thinking, it's only going to get worse. The time is not going to slow down any time soon, but rather fly by faster and faster like a spinning top or a rushing wind. And I know that is most definitely true! So, I will be thankful for today and for the 4 years of beautiful, precious life that the Lord has graciously given our daughter. She is truly a gift from God that has brightened our day, everyday of her life.

4 year old "glamour shot" from Sunday

My princess on her birthday!