Johnny Jump-ups

I was reading some this morning out of my "Joy for a Woman's Soul" devotional book. I ran across one written by Peggy Benson. In it she talks about how Johnny Jump Ups are some of her favorite spring flowers. She says they resemble smiling faces, each with their own personality. She goes on to talk about her "jump-up" friends in her life. Her "jump-up" friends came into her life at the exact time she needed a friendly, smiling face.

This past week our calendar was full of playdates with new friends. My biggest fear about moving was making new friends. Well, I thank God every day for sending me my Johnny Jump-ups! I have met so many wonderful women since we've moved here. They are encouraging, Godly women. I know I can go to any of them for anything.

I also think of my friends back in Ky. The ones I miss so much. I think back to the times we met and how God orchestrated everything! I'm so thakful for friends old and new! They each mean so much to me!

Thankful

The title of this post is thankful, b/c that is how I am feeling right now...and this is why. Over the past week I have been feeling pretty down in the dumps. I cry about anything, commercials, movies, pictures of my kids (I realize how fast they are growing), homesickness, etc. I know, I know...a week ago I wrote about the joy of having a Godly perspective and I try, really I do. Somedays I do and somedays I just don't, but I remind myself on those days why I should. :) Anyway, last night before bed I sat down to do my devotion. My devotions have been coming from an In Touch magazine my mom sends to me. The devotions are short and sweet, but powerful. The last couple of days that I have done one, I wasn't focused nor was I listening to God. He was trying to speak to me in my time of feeling blah and I was not paying attention. Instead my mind was on bills to be paid, laundry to be done, etc...I read the words, shut my Bible and went about my day. Well, last night I sat down once more, opened my Bible and my devotional and saw the titles of the devotions I had been reading were: Results of Discouragement, The Outcome of Discouragement, and Spiritual Causes of Discouragement ...Hello!!! DISCOURAGEMENT! That is how I have been feeling, discouraged. So I reread them...and God spoke. No, I didn't hear any booming voice, but he spoke to me through his Word, once again. We are memorizing a verse at church, it is Hebrews 4:12, "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." I understand that verse now, when God speaks to you, you know it, you feel it, and you are moved by it. I sat and wept tears of joy and sadness as I finished these devotions last night. Tears of joy b/c God speaks to me, little ole me, and reassures me once again, we're right where we are supposed to be! Tears of sadness b/c He had been trying to get through to me for a few days and I ignored him and was too busy to hear what He had to say.

These are the verses that spoke to me last night. James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, b/c you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

2 Corinthians 7:9-10 "yet now I am happy, not b/c you were made sorry, but b/c your sorrow led to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. "

This next one is the kicker, if you remember, back in my first blog, I talked about how God used the verse out of Joshua to let me know to come to SC...it says, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terriedied; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Now read this verse from last night, and remember I was feeling discouraged about being here and not in Ky or not with my family...basically I was just feeling sorry for myself, but God reminded me gently through this verse to keep on keeping on.
1 Chronicles 28:20 "David aslo said to Solomon his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the service of the temple of the Lord is finished."

WOW! Okay God, now what is the work I am supposed to do while I am here? That is the question and my prayer!

Let's be reminded why we feel discouraged...Satan! Discouragement is one of his most effective weapons; he knows that if he can destroy our courage, we won't accomplish anything for Christ. Instead we'll be too busy feeling sorry for ourselves and miss out on some pretty awesome things!

Prayer: Dear Lord, I know without a shadow of a doubt, my family and I are where you want us to be. You have made that very clear. Help me to focus on the things that are to be accomplished for you while we are here, instead of dwelling on the past. Thank you for your many blessings and the precious memories I have from the past. But I am now focused on the present, the here and now, use me to further Your kingdom. Amen!

The Joy of a Godly Perspective

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

What an awesome verse. All to often, I wonder what in the world we are here for. I can't begin to express how much I miss living in Wilmore, Ky. I miss my friends. I miss being only 3 hours from my family and making weekend trips home. I miss our church, oh how I miss our church and family there. Just thinking about it makes me tear up. When I think like this and dwell on the past I am doubting the awesome plans that God has for us here. If you have kept up with my blog, you know, as well as I do, God wants us here. He made that clear in many ways. When dwelling on all these things He reminds me of how he has blessed us here. We have met so many wonderful friends. He has led us to a church we enjoy going to. Craig and I have drawn closer during this time. Believe it or not, even during this busy volleyball season, we see him more than we ever did in KY. Craig was pulled in so many different directions when we were there because he had 4 jobs...a realtor, a migrant recruiter, professor, and a volleyball coach. Now he is just a full-time coach and he loves it!

So, I guess my point is...I need to have a Godly perspective! Life is a journey...but there is no end in this journey, instead there is a goal! Whatever sends us running for Him, makes us embrace Him, and causes us to wholly depend on Him, is the best good in our lives.

There are times in my life that I have been so full of gratitude and awe that I haven't been able to do anything but sing praises to Him. One of those times is when I was hiking in Glacier National Park. The sights I saw were breathtaking! My friend Kimmy and I sang "How Great is our God" as we hiked along the trail. :) Then there are other times we haven't been able to see how God could possibly be there in the dark circumstances of life. Craig and I experienced something awful in May of 2004. It is a persons worst nightmare and we lived it! At this time I couldn't understand why this incident had happened. What kind of good could come from this?! I questioned God a lot. But I have learned that God always-in all things-is up to something good in our lives....and that "good" is always eternal good!

So, let's just praise the Lord!

Love you all!

3 wins for the home team

I think I may be getting a glimpse of why God has sent us here. Abouta week ago after Craig's practice 3 of the girl's on his team gave their lives to Christ...praise God! You see, Craig shared with me that he has been praying for these woman since he has been here. They are great women, but some of the team had not accepted Christ, or had accepted Christ but were no longer making Him part of their lives. I don't know these woman personally, yet. So I can only tell you what Craig has shared.


Craig has had devotions with them, he has chats with them about drinking, sexual purity, etc. He has set curfews too. He soon realized this wasn't doing any good and wasn't going to change the way they chose to live their lives. So he prayed for God to make them broken, so that they may have a heart for Him. He prayed that something would happen to bring them to their knees. Well, something did happen. I won't go into details, but something drastically changed in one player's live. As she stood there and told the teammates she couldn't be a part of the team any longer...they were broken. Craig stood in front of the 17 girls and read Hebrews 12:3 to them and shared the message of salvation. After that a few musicians came out and played worship songs. Three of them we're brought to their knees in front of our Holy, faithful Heavenly Father. God is so good!

Sunny Sunday

So sorry it has been so long since I've written a blog. I've been pretty busy the last few weeks. Since I've written my family has been down here twice! The second time was a complete surprise. My mom called Tuesday evening and said they were leaving at 6 the next morning and heading this way. Their was an auction my step-dad needed to attend in Spartanburg, which is about 1 hour from here. His boss and his wife also rode down with them b/c their son lives in Greenville, SC. It was so nice to see them again! We had a great time together. I"m looking forward to the next visit from friends and family!

I've turned 30 years old since I've blogged...I can't believe it. That used to sound so old to me and now I'm there! It hit me yesterday when I found out a girl that I work with, whom I assumed was around the same age as me was only 18! And when asked how old I was, I had to say 30. I just picture myself as a girl in my twenties still. Wow, time flies! I can remember my freshman year of college like it was yesterday...it was ten years ago!!!!!!!!! Okay, I'm getting depressed...moving on.

I'm sitting out here on my beloved porch swing. It is one of those days that you just have to be outside no matter what. 7o degrees, blue, sunny skies, a nice breeze...ahhh, so refreshing and beautiful! Even though there is a lot of stuff that could be done inside, it will have to wait. This is what the weather will be like in heaven, I just know it! :) Getting back to my porch swing, I love it! It was a b-day gift from my mother-in-law. We live out in the country, so it is so peaceful, except for the occasional dog barking. Across the street from us is nothing but a forest...the wind sounds so loud coming through it, but it is calming. I have many great memories from when I was a child that took place while sitting on a porch swing. It was on my grandma and grandpa Frazie's back porch. As a child I was blessed to live right next door to one set of grandparents. One of my memories is of me and my grandma Dodie snapping green beans, while swinging and talking. Another memory is of me, my grandma and grandpa swinging one summer evening during a big storm. We watched the rain surround us, while it rolled off the porch roof. Those are great memories, maybe that is why I love my porch swing so much. :)

Well, I hope you all enjoy your Sunday as much as I am. Have a great week!

Celebrate being YOU

Good morning friends. I'm up bright and early this morning and feeling especially happy and excited! I've got my starbucks anniversary blend coffee setting on the table beside me....aww, the aroma is fabulous! My family is coming in today for a visit!!! WoooHOOO! I'm so excited to entertain them in my new house and then spend the rest of the weekend on the lake in a lake house here. My mom and Steve rented a lake house for the weekend and a pontoon boat. What fun! I can't wait to kiss my nephew's face off either!!! :)
I'm also feeling motivated to write about a topic that I have a heart for. For it wasn't long ago, about 7 years ago to be exact, that I let the devil get a hold of me. That is when I started believing his lies. The lies that I wasn't good enough, skinny enough, smart enough, pretty enough, etc. Believing the lies led to a dangerous disorder. I began to binge and purge, once a week, once a day, everyday, three times a day. I don't know who I was during this time...I don't know how I let myself get to that point. How in the world did I ever think that was okay?! The devil is sneaky, he'll make you believe a lot of things...just like he did Eve. He must have been pretty tricky to make her believe it was okay to eat that fruit after the Almighty God told her not to eat! He tricks and lies to me and you today. Don't let him get you!!

Proverbs 14:10 says, "A heart at peace gives life to the body." My prayer for you an myself is that we will be at peace in our own body and with our own body. Are you at peace with the person God made you? If you don't peace within yourself you won't ever have peace with other people. God could send you another mom friend you've been praying for, but if you're not at peace with yourself that won't work. Before you can experience healthy relationships, you've got to be happy with who God made you!
If you're focused on imperfections, like I was for so long, and wishing you looked like someone else, were someone else, you are allowing the devil to steal your peace and replace it with wrong thinking. Please don't get caught in that trap, I can tell you from experience it is an awful place to be!
The devil will try to convince you that you are a weak little worm and when he does he laughs! He's evil, he's mean, he's the father of lies! You need to declare out loud, "I am a child of the Most High King and He thinks I am great!" As a matter of fact he is enthralled with your beauty! (Psalm 45:11) It doesn't matter the what size you are, the color of your hair, how tall you are...God made you just the way you are! Imagine spending a long time making something for your son or daughter, making sure everything is just the way you want it. Then when you give it to them they say, I don't like it! And they start to tear it up and destroy the masterpiece you created just for them. Our body is a masterpiece that our Father created just for us, embrace it, don't pick it apart and destroy it!
You may not be happy with every aspect of yourself, but you need to be happy about the basic person that God created you to be. When you start practicing that mindset, your peace will return! And that is a great way to live!
I now have that peace. Thank God I only suffered from my eating disorder about a year. He sent two wonderful people into my life to help me overcome! I couldn't have done it without the faith that my Almighty God would heal me! "He is the truth and the truth will set you free." John 8:32

Prayer for you and me: Lord, I pray that Your peace will overtake me today. Please take away all wrong thinking from me.

Watch this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyheJ480LYA

(A lot of these ideas came from my Daily Wisdom for Mother's devotion book)

Driving out fear

I am a worry wort. I try not to be...I know it is a sin. I read all the verses many times that remind me not to worry. I do okay for awhile, then before I know it, the worry creeps back in. I find myself worrying about silly stuff, stuff that hasn't even happened and probably won't happen, but I make up this ordeal in my head and get all anxious and flustered and then I snap out of it and think why do I do this to myself!?

So there is this flu going around, HINI (aka swine flu), have you heard of it? If you watch any kind of t.v. read newspapers, etc, you have. It's turned me into a germaphobic! I'm constantly squirting hand sanitizer on myself and my poor kids. I've got bottles of it everywhere...3 in my purse, 2 in my car, 1 in my kitchen, and 2 more in the cabinet for when we run out...which will be soon at this rate. :)

Craig swears he's already had swine flu. When we first moved down here, he had all the symptoms...fever, chills, cough, sore throat. The kids who are experiencing these symptoms at the college are being quarantined. Anyway, he was never tested for it, so we'll never know. Thankfully the kids and I didn't get whatever it was, even though we we're living in a 2 room tiny, little house.

So, I pulled out my devotion book for mothers, which I haven't read in years. And God is so good, he was talking right to me again. This devotion is about driving out fear...and just a side note, I'm home alone in our new house all night tonight. I'm scared. I hate to be alone, so again, this devotion was perfect for tonight.

"Okay, so I've accepted the fact that I'll never be perfect. But it's good to know that God's perfect love is available to me and that His love drives out fear. You know, as moms, we encounter a lot of fears concerning our children. We fear they won't develop properly when they are growing inside of us. We fear we'll do something wrong as parents. We fear they aren't learning like other children. We fear we aren't spending enough time with them..and on and on and on.

But Romans 8:15 tells us that we did not receive a spirit that makes us slaves to fear; rather we received the Spirit of sonship. That entitles us to the right to cry out to God as our Abba, Father. He wants us to run to Him when we're fearful. He wants to cast that fear right out of our hearts.

So, if you're struggling with fears of inadequacy, or if you're worried about your children to the point that your stomach is in knots (that's me)...run to God! Let Him replace your fear with HIs perfect love. Now that's a deal you can't refuse!" That devotion came from a book called "Daily wisdom for Mothers".

I can choose to spend my days worrying and being fearful of the unknown, or I can trust in my Almighty Heavenly Father, and bask in His perfect love, and enjoy the days knowing that He is in control! Not me.

1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear (and worry) . :)

Here's that right hand again...Isaiah 41:13 "For I am the Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand, and says to you, Do not fear, I will help you."

and again...Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Change! You can count on it!!

I really should be napping right now. I'm tired, Jackson's asleep, Anna Claire is in her room having quiet time. I read a devotion before my attempt to nap and when I laid my head down and closed my eyes, my mind was racing...so I thought I would blog while I'm feeling a little inspired.

Being homesick is no fun!! I'm homesick for Lexington, KY. If you asked me, and Kelly Ripa(she mentioned this on her show the other day), Lexington is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Yes, I've been to the ocean and I've been to the mtns. They are both breathtakingly beautiful...but not far behind on my list of beautiful places is Lexington. The rolling hills, the horse pastures everywhere you look, the outrageously expensive barns, the beautiful fences that outline the pastures, the rock walls built hundreds of years ago that still stand everywhere you turn. I tear up just thinking about "home." It isn't where I grew up, but I love that place and my friends that are there and long to be back. BUT!!!!!!!!!!!! I am reminded, "like it or not, that change is constant and it is a part of modern life. There are 3 things that don't change...1. God's love 2. Friendship with his Son 3. The power of the Holy Spirit. When you think you've had just about all the change you can handle reach out and take one step farther into God's wide open arms. Though his love, power and friendship never change, He made you and me with a big elastic spiritual cord that strectches with every tug and pull. He knows exactly how much give it's got. If He's calling you to stretch, He knows you have what it takes....so REACH!!!" Barbara Johnson

God knows a lot more than us...right? :) He knows what is best for us. He knows change can make our lives richer. We serve a God of change! Live for today, but be excited for the change that tomorrow might bring. God says, "I will never leave you, come to me and I will give you rest. In my presence is fullness of joy."

When I'm feeling sorry for myself, God gently reminds me how he has already blessed us here in Anderson. I do like it here, I have met some awsome people whom I LOVE to spend time with. Anna Claire has been blessed with a handful of friends. Craig loves his job. We have a nice house, and not to mention we are close to mtns and the beach. :) I have everything in the world to be thankful for!

Psalm 16;11 "you have made known to me the path of life; you will feel me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand."

Laughter is the best medicine

It feels so good to laugh. Have you ever had, and I'm sure you have at some point, laughed so hard your belly hurt? Have you ever laughed so hard you cried? I have, many times, but before tonight, I can't remember the last time I did laugh like that and it felt good! I had just got the kids to bed and sat down on the couch...I was going to listen to an online sermon from our church, but instead got a skype video call from my brother, sister-in-law, and sweet nephew. Their computer has some special features on skype that ours doesn't have...anyhow, Nathan was making his face look all contorted, something like a mirror in a fun house would make you look. Oh my, I laughed so hard, he kept making all kinds of different faces, and those of you who know my brother know that he can make some hilarious faces! We probably talked for 15 minutes, well, not talked, laughed. It was so refreshing and just what I needed. I'll listen to the sermon another time. I know that God knows what I need more than I do. And He knew I needed to spend "time" with family and laugh! I truly believe laughter is the best medicine. I feel refreshed and full of joy. By the way, I have an awesome brother!!

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

Be YOU!

Hello friends! Lately I haven't been feeling very inspired to write in my blog. I'll sit down to write and nothing worth writing comes to me. So...I'm taking something again from someone else. She shared it on facebook.This came from a book called Your Best Life Now for Moms.

..."Dare to be happy w/ who you are right now. Many social, physical, and emotional problems stem from the fact that people don't like themselves. They are uncomfortable w/ how they look, how they talk, or how they act. They don't like their personality. They are always comparing themselves w/ other people, wishing they were something different.You were not created to mimic somebody else. You were created to be you. You can be happy with who God made you to be, and quit wishing you were something different. If God had wanted you to look like the perfect PTA mother, He would have made you look like her. If God had wanted you to have a different personality, He would have given you that personality. When you go around trying to be like somebody else, not only does it demean you, it steals your uniqueness.An important factor in seeing yourself God's way is to understand your intrinsic sense of value. Your sense of value cannot be based on your successes or failures, how your children treat you, or how popular you are. It is not something we earn; indeed, we cannot earn it. God built value into us when He created us. As His unique creation, you have something to offer your family and this world that nobody else has, that nobody else can be. Your sense of value should be based SOLELY on the fact that you are a child of the Most High God...God doesn't want a bunch of clones. He likes variety, and you should not let people pressure you or make you feel badly about yourself because you don't fit their image of who you should be. Be an original, not a copycat. Be secure in who God made you to be and then go out and be the best mom you can be. Even if everybody else rejects you, remember, God stands before you with His arms open wide. Learn to be happy with who God made you."

Philippians 1:6 "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

Love you all and miss you more than you'll ever know!

Leah

First day jitters

Hello friends! I have a book called First Day Jitters. It is all about this girl not wanting to start at a new school, she's nervous, she doesn't want to get out bed etc...at the end of the book you find out that girl was the teacher. That was me today. I did not want to go to a new school. I was nervous to meet my co-workers and the kids in my class. I tried not to show my uneasiness in front of my kids b/c I wanted them to be excited! Anyhow, it all turned out ok. The kids in my class are terrific and the teacher I work with is nice...very quiet, but nice. The picture on the left was taken before we left for school. Jackson has a new toothbrush and when I took it away he cried, so therefore he has it in the picture. :) They both had a good day, in fact, when I went to pick up Jackson, he was laying on the floor asleep!! I was shocked! It was nap time in his room (they sleep on mats in the floor). Never in my wildest dreams did I think he would go to sleep on the FLOOR! He did, I hated to wake him, but I had put in my 4 hours and was ready to go!

Today was a very busy day. It feels nice to sit down and and relax. The kids were in bed and asleep before 8! Now it's ME time! Craig is at practice, he won't be home until 10 or so.

This weekend I met the 6 girls whom I am mentoring, they live in one of the ministry houses on campus. They were all so sweet! I'm in the works of putting a little goody basket together for them. So far it has some cleaning products, bottles of water and some candy. I made cookies to put in but they FLOPPED! I was bummed!

Well, I need to get to some laundry. Have a great day!

"You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to glory!" Psalm 73:24

Joy

It is a rainy day here in Anderson and might I add, it is beautiful! I haven't seen rain since we moved here a month ago...unlike you KY and Ohio folk who have seen plenty! I love to watch the rain...I also love to have an excuse to stay inside in my jammies all day! However, I did get out and go grocery shopping this morning and had a wonderful friend call as I was on my way to the store and ask if she could watch the kiddos for me so I could shop in peace. It was truly a blessing!

Yesterday was one of the longest days of my life. I haven't been sleeping well and I was tired and just felt like laying around all day. I had no motivation to do anything. My poor kids, I was a bad mom yesterday. I just left the t.v. on and let them veg in front of it. I don't like days like that...days that my kids and I are bored out of our minds. My good friend Kate's mom used to say, (Kate forgive me, I 'm sure this wasn't her exact words) that only boring people get bored. Yesterday I was a boring person! I like to be active, creative, and motivated to get things done! The day did end on a good note b/c it was girl's night out, but I don't want to have another day like that for a long time!

The following I'm stealing from my friend's facebook post today..."I sometimes forget that everyday is another opportunity to increase our joy in Jesus. For example, I can choose to ho-hum through the day, or I can dig into some of his Word and be encouraged and spurred on toward loving others more! How are you increasing your joy in Jesus today? Through creation? Through playing with your kiddos? Through taking a risk to love someone? Feel free to share!" Thanks Stef, I needed that!!

Yesterday was ho-hum to say the least...today I feel joy! I found joy and was encouraged by His word today. I was reminded to "cast all my anxiety on Him because He cares for me!" 1 Peter 5:7
I found joy in knowing that HE wants me to come to Him so HE can give me rest...and that HE is gentle and humble in heart! Matthew 11:28-30

I also played with Anna Claire today, and I usually do, but today I watched her close as we played. I stopped worrying about all that needed to be done around the house, it's not going anywhere, right? but she is...too fast! I focused on her. It is amazing how fast 4 years have went. She is so kind, loving, creative, and smart. I found joy in watching her play and I am blessed that God gave me such an amazing little girl. And my little Jackson is so sweet! He loves to give hugs and cuddle. When he wraps his little arms around me, I feel joy! One day all too soon, if God chooses to keep us here for that long, those little arms will be big strong arms hugging me. I want him to stay little forever!
Our Children are a heritage,
A blessing from the Lord;
They bring a richness to our lives--
In each, a treasure stored. Fasick

Time spent with your children is time wisely invested!!

Love you all! I hope you are finding joy today!

Home sweet home

We are finally in our new house. We're all beginning to feel settled. There are still boxes here and there and things to be done, but we are home and that is all that matters. It was so nice to see our furniture and sleep in our bed. It was a blessing seeing the kids eyes light up when they saw toys that they had forgotten they even had. We had Christmas in August all over again. I wanted to post some pics of our house and I will soon, but it still isn't quite there yet. :) Over the past week, we haven't had internet or cable, that is why I haven't posted a blog lately. It was kind of nice though to not have the distraction of the television or the temptation to check facebook and email. Instead, I worked my tooshy off all day long putting stuff where it belongs. The kids have been great at entertaining themselves and each other while I do what needs to be done. Craig has kept busy too, when he gets home in the evening. I always have a to do list for him and he is very good at checking it off.
The house is so peaceful right now...Jackson is sleeping and Anna Claire is with Craig. They ran to the college to make sure all the v-ball players are getting moved in okay. Ahhh, tis the season for volleyball...:( I'd be lying if I said I was happy about that. As you coaches wives out there can relate, it is a lonely time, but also a time to be supportive of your husband and his passion. We won't see a lot of Craig over the next couple of months, so I'm hoping my positive attitude towards this move continues. Last year as I was voicing my concerns about v-ball season to my friend Jen, she brought up a good point. She said, instead of dreading the season why not take this oppurtunity to serve your husband and his team. She ask me what are some things I could do to serve them b/c when you give to others it brings joy. Have you ever noticed that? The more you give the better you feel? So, instead of having a pity party I'm going to try to have more of a positive attitude about this volleyball season. So if any of you out there have any creative, inexpensive ideas on what I could do for the girls on his team please let me know!
Okay, off to take my Sunday afternoon siesta! Love you all!

Leah

Homecoming

God showed me something just now as I was reading my daily devotion and I thought I would share it with you. Lately I've been homesick for my house in Wilmore. I loved that house and that neigborhood. I loved that I could walk to my friend Jen's house anytime of the day and be greeted with open arms and a smile. I loved that Anna Claire had several playmates within walking distance. I miss everything so, so, so much!! However, I do like it here, please don't think I'm miserable here. There is lots to do and see and I've met several nice people who have been so welcoming, but it just doesn't feel like home...yet. Anyhow, I miss home...I told Craig last night how homesick I am and he said you shouldn't be homesick for Wilmore, you should be homesick for Heaven, that's our home. That really wasn't what I wanted to hear, oh well.
My devotion today was called "Homecoming" and the passage was Psalm 73:21-28. Part of the scripture says, " When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, ...you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you." Ahhhh, He always knows what I need to hear and when I need to hear it. I love it when I open God's word and He speaks right to me. In chapel at preschool at SCC Ms. Connie always said to the kids, "When you open God's word, God opens his mouth." How true! And how amazing is it to picture my heavenly Father holding my right hand through this journey! I know several of you reading this have went through a move and have experienced the same feelings I am feeling. I pray that God will give you the peace, comfort and strength He has given me during this time.

Our 6th anniversary

This weekend was a fantastic weekend! Sunday was our 6th anniversary. Craig kept telling me all day Saturday that Sunday was going to be a great day...a day I'll never forget. I couldn't figure out what in the world it could be...because I thought we were going to have the kids with us our date. We haven't been here long enough to find a sitter, so I just couldn't figure out what in the world he could be planning that was so unforgettable. Long story short....we were sitting at O'Charly's after church enjoying a delicous lunch and guess who walks up?!! My mom and my step-dad. Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever guessed they were coming to see us! I was shocked to say the least! After lunch, we dropped the kids off at the hotel my parents were staying at with them and Craig and I went our date...kidless! We went to Table Rock State Park in the upstate mtns of South Carolina. We took a nice little hike on a 92 degree day, so we didn't hike too long. :) And to top it all off we got a room at the Hampton right down the hall from my parents. It was so nice to get a night away from our stinky little temporary house. It was definitely an anniversary I'll never forget!

Today, Monday, mom, steve, the kids and I went and spent the day in Greenville. It is such a neat little city! We went to the zoo, falls park, Brick Oven Cafe and then got ice cream. It was nice to see them!! I'll be sad to see them go, but I know they'll be back Sept. 11th. I'll add pictures as soon as I can find my camera...hmmmm, where did I put that?

Love you all!

New Job

Today I went in to First Baptist Church of Anderson and got a job. It was the easiest job interview I've ever been to. They have a child development center there that I'm going to be working at 5 days a week from about 8:30-12...I think. I'm not sure of the details yet, but I definitely have a job and the kids will be attending there also. It will be a nice way to meet new people and keep the kids socially engaged for a few hours a day. I wanted Anna Claire to be in some kind of preschool the year before she starts kindergarten. Next year, I may just stay home with Jackson or if I really like this job I may continue to work there.

Also, the director of student ministries here at the college asked me if I would be interested in mentoring women at the college who struggle with eating disorders. Those of you who know me well, know that I have a passion for helping girls who are struggling with this. I was excited that God will be able to use me and my past experiences for the good! Pray for the women I will be meeting with and pray also that I will say the words they need to hear.

Not much else to share now, but if you go to this site you can see a video of downtown Anderson, SC. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rliVpPJMnUY

Thursday, July 23, 2009

I just finished skyping with my mom, sister-n-law and nephew. It is so neat and much needed. I love to see their sweet faces. It makes me a little less homesick. I thank God for that kind of technology. It makes the move a little easier knowing that my kids will be able to see their family often, even if it is through a computer screen. If you don't have skype yet you can download it for free at skype.com. Let me know if you do and we'll have a video call too, that is, if you have a web cam.

That last two days have been pretty uneventful, therefore I'm bored and boredom leads to me feeling down in the dumps and longing for home. I did get together with English again yesterday at Books-a-Million, so that helped the morning fly by. It will be so much better once we get in our house. This little place we're staying is tiny and cramped. The kids don't seem to mind though. They pass the time by jumping on beds and climbing on anything they can find. We also take a lot of walks around town and the campus. The neighborhood around the campus is beautiful...lots of big, old, beautiful houses. I can just imagine ppl sitting on the back porch enjoying a sweet tea. Every once in a while I'll see palm trees in people's yards or along the road...I never imagined I'd be living somewhere with palm trees! I think I kind of like it. :)
I'm just ready to have everything I own in it's place. Last night, I made frozen pizza for dinner and had to use socks to get it out of the oven b/c all our towels are dirty and who knows where my oven mitts are?! Oh well, it could be worse.

I'm looking forward to the weekend. Craig will have some down time and we can hang out as a family. Anna Claire will be attending her first b-day party at a swimming pool, so she is very excited for that. We may go hiking in the mtns or just down the road to Greenville to explore the city. It is nice to know we have lots of options! We are in the middle of lots of big cities and also near mtns. not to mention 3 hours from Charlston, SC.

Here is a verse I ran across Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Amen to that!

Well, the kids are napping so I'm going to try to nap too. Love you all!

Play dates

Yesterday we had a wonderful play date at the pool with 4 wonderful women, Stacey, Sheryl, Abby, and English. Between all of us there were 12 kids. All of our husbands work at Anderson University. Stacy's husband is the women's basketball coach, English's husband is the tennis coach, Abby's husband is the Director of Student Activities, and Sheryl's husband works in the Admission's office. We have all been transplanted here in Anderson and I'm the newby. :) We enjoyed each other's company and shared stories about husbands, kids and how we ended up here. It was a day full of fun and laughter.

Today we met back up with English and her little girls, Aly (yrs) and Josie (11 mo). We went to the library for story hour. It was good to see them again. Aly and Anna Claire really enjoy each other's company. :) Aly told her mommy that Anna CLaire is her best friend. Not only am I thankful for God putting women in my life here quickly, but more so Anna Claire's. She has met so many little girl's her age and I love that she has made friends so easily! However she has mentioned several times that she is missing her Ky friends and her cousin Carter as am I! I think about you all everyday! I think of my old house and neighborhood and I miss my daily walks with Jen. I was looking at pictures of our life group the other night and cried. I miss your smiling faces and our outings. It makes me sad to think I haven't even met Avery yet, Aimee's new little one, and I miss Aly B and Ella so much!!! BUT I love the verse in Corinthians that reminds me "to be content whatever the circumstances....I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
I know I will see you all again soon! Thank you for you thoughts and prayers during this time. You all are in my prayers also. I thank God for putting you each in my life.
I could go on and on, but I do not want to bore anyone, so I'll stop here. More to come tomorrow!

The beginning of our journey down south.

I've decided to start a blog. Since we are farther away from family and friends I wanted to have a way I could keep you all posted and up to date on what is going on with our family. Now I just have to stay on the ball and keep up with this. Today is my first day of being a resident of South Carolina. How we ended up here has been a journey and I want to let you all know about it. Many of you have already heard, so I'm mostly just writing this so I never forget the chain of events that led us here to South Carolina. I'll try to breif. :)

It all started when Craig started looking for a new full-time job. He was an awesome realtor and did fantastic at it, esp his second year. The economy took a turn for the worst and so did his real estate business. Knowing he couldn't provide for our family by working part time at Asbury he began his search. Now, I had a rule for Craig to follow...he had a 3 hour window around Minford, Ohio. I would move, as long as it wasn't farther from my family. He applied for every type of job, not just coaching. Nothing was working out. Finally, I told him just do what you have to do to get a job anywhere. At this point I knew something had to be done. Bills were not going to get paid soon if something wasn't done. Speaking of bills being paid, the Lord provided for us always!! Just when we thought we weren't going to be able to make a payment, Craig would sell a property and the closing would come just in time for us to get our bills paid on time! This happened several times. Matthew 6:31-33 says, "so do not worry, saying,'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all thises things will be given to you as well."
Long story short, Craig applied for the Anderson job the day I told him to do what he had to do. A month or so later Anderson University called, he went for the interview and here we are. It wasn't an easy choice for me.

I would ask God to lead me to verses to help me make this big decision and here are some I read:
Ephesians 5:1517 "Be very careful, then, how you live not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every oppurtunity, because the days are evil. Therefor do not be foolish but understand what the Lord's will is.

Ephesians 5:22 "Wives submit to your husbands as to the Lord.....Not as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything!"
I knew Craig wanted this job, it was his dream job...fulltime Div. 2 volleyball coach.

Craig and I took a trip down here by ourselves. As we were driving around I pulled out my daily devotional. I was feeling very torn and knew that this place is nice and all but I want to stay put in KY. I am comfortable there, I have friends there, my family is only 3 hrs away, I love my church. I prayed "God, please let today's devotion lead me to the right decision." Be careful what you ask for. The devotion was from the book of Joshua chapter one...this is what it said, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord you God will be with you wherever you go." The devotion went on to talk about how God may be calling you to make a move that you are not comfortable with, but to have faith b/c if God is in it, then he will bless you...okay, okay...I thought I might throw up after I read that, but I thanked God for the guidance anyway. :) As if that wasn't enough, on the way home my conversatation with God was going something like this..."WHY?????????????? No, I don't want to, I won't do it, you can't make me, why would you want to move us farther from family, it doesn't make since and these are the reasons why...if you really want me to go God show me a sign, some kind of visible sign...a rainbow? a flash of lightning? Well, I didn't see a rainbow, I didn't see a flash of lightening, instead I was two big Greyhound buses drive by that said GOANDERSON.COM. (Anderson is the name of the university). Ouch!! I felt like I'd been kicked in the stomach.
The days following were hard, but once the decision was made God gave me a peace that passeth all understanding.
Now what? The decision has been made, now what? We had to sell our house and in the market today, I was scared! Praise God it sold in 37 days. Not only did the we have to sell our house, but the ppl who bought ours, had to sell theirs, and the woman who bought theirs, had to sell hers. It all worked out and everbody's sold in less than two weeks!

One more thing I have to add to this. I've been reading a book called 100 + Ways God Shows Me He Loves Me. It is a book compiled with stories of women who have picked something special to them so everytime they see it they will remeber God's love for them. I picked a yellow finch, b/c it was my grandma Lou's favorite bird. I hadn't seen a yellow finch since I had been reading this book, about a month went by and I was feeling down. It seemed like nothing was going our way and I prayed, "God, I know you love me and I know you are in this move with us, but things just don't seem to be working out right now. Can you please send a yellow finch to remind me of your love for me and to remind me that we are doing the right thing." A little while later after saying that prayer I arrived at the Arboreteum to take a walk. I had just started my walk and guess what flew right in front of me?! A yellow finch! Thank you God for loving me and for reminding me of the love you have for me! Amen!!