tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30312573129226616222024-02-19T00:41:47.825-05:00Our Life With A View!An inside look to what makes us laugh, love & live!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-24147748739361896072015-09-09T20:41:00.002-04:002015-09-09T20:46:20.358-04:00Listen To The Spotter!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In spirit of the NASCAR Chase season, I give my "burn out" to those who climb in those cars each weekend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Last year I had the chance to experience the full view in driving a real race car! This had been a life long dream from my childhood days of being a true Race Girl! Growing up, I would spend many nights with my Dad, out and about in the local race team's shop. I remembered the rumble of the engines as they would roar throughout the area as they cranked for the first time after being built by this crew of proud engineers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I remember watching the race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway for the first time with my Dad and dreaming of what it would be like to go that fast.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here is a little recap of my experience!</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I listened intensely to every detail the trainer taught me.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I bought the extra insurance so I wouldn't have to give the track the cash in my hands if I hit something or someone.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I needed 2 cushions to boost me close enough to the pedals. (I'm vertically limited!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I was scared to pieces.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I had to listen to my spotter. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I finished my laps and smiled the biggest smiles possible. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The whole time during our training course, the instructor kept saying - "Listen to your spotter!" This hit me hard as I climbed in the car, the head devices restricting me from seeing fully around me, no mirrors to help me. Headphones on. Mic check. Sound check. The spotter was ready. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You see - this spotter is located high above the track and his main role is to watch for anything that would put me in danger or to tell me when I'm putting others in danger. He's positioned up above and has a view or perspective that I can't see. I had to depend on this spotter to help me out. He was my only way of living through this experience. Cars going 180mph all around me, I had to listen to all he told me to do, and not do. My life depended on it. My wimpy 115mph experience had nothing on the pro's.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That is much like living life as a leader. I have to depend on the Holy Spirit to guide me, show me, correct me, warn me, train me, watch out for me. My listening to the "spotter" and the Holy Spirit both involve my actions bringing harm or health to so many people around me - my family included. Hitting a wall at high speeds brings the same result as not listening to his warning when a situation needs His presence.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Throughout this high speed adventure and dream come true, I was gently reminded - I must allow my "spotter" to help me. I can't do this alone. Too much is at stake! No insurance coverage can take care of that.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm thankful for the Holy Spirit and how he gently directs me each day. Watching every detail. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What are way's God is showing His presence with you? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Are you allowing Him the chance to be your "spotter"? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-78995996196981461992015-01-10T13:39:00.002-05:002015-01-10T13:54:46.026-05:00Are You A Super Mom?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYJYNJcDPPAqJxDlAQCq3WqFBUFB07Lyhh-MA2TMropNRV9MRzEJP9vldo6xOCkPqM8URsEuk3OVf7IHPesVxMWNFzCuRqndsG7nyjXwgBdG0AmLn_SvRuKHUJHB7PyoGvxGTdkF8SyU/s1600/super+mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYJYNJcDPPAqJxDlAQCq3WqFBUFB07Lyhh-MA2TMropNRV9MRzEJP9vldo6xOCkPqM8URsEuk3OVf7IHPesVxMWNFzCuRqndsG7nyjXwgBdG0AmLn_SvRuKHUJHB7PyoGvxGTdkF8SyU/s1600/super+mom.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I hate to break the news to you, but I don't wear the "Super Mom" wardrobe under my normal attire, nor do I have the "Wonder Woman" boots in my closet to pull up on any given day. I do happen to own a very well worn "Super Woman" t-shirt that has met my best 5K running days. Other than that, No super powers here. Just a lot of grace, loads of laughs and tons of failures to hop over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I am not entitled to wonderful super powers or potions to help me maneuver my kids to the car in time to get out the door to an appointment or class, nor do I have cryptonite on hand to squelch the radical "eye rolling" replies when I ask the kids to clean their room. Surely I do not hold super powers that help me interrupt, referee or suddenly stop those sibling squabbles that we have had the luxury to experience. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I'm a normal wired Mom. I'm a protective Mom. I'm a working Mom. I'm a non-stop Mom. Just like many of you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Over the last few months, I have had a few people ask, "How do you do all you do?" ... here is the answer. It's really simple. When God asks you to do something, He provides the grace to do it, He provides the wisdom to complete it and He gives you the strength to complete it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>I pray.</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Without His wisdom and direction, I fail. I need His grace. I want His presence. When I have spent time with Him, all can tell - especially my family. I want them to know of His faithful love, not just mine. I want to know His heart. When I have spent time with Him, I can do anything ... including taking on the most ferocious villains.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>I prepare & plan.</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Time is made up of moments, and moments are manageable. This means managing & preparing every thing I can to care for our family well. This means menu planning, school lessons, cooking days for the week ahead and reading every resource I can to stay alert to seasons our children are in developmentally & spiritually. We have to grow ourselves as parents to be ready for the seasons approaching for our kids. I want to grow our kids greater than anything we have been or could be. I want them to know how to enter into their world with confidence! I want to grow them well. This takes preparing & planing well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>I protect.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">When you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else. Don’t let it be your family. We don't say "yes" to everything - we can't! Unfortunately, we will occasionally have to say "no" to events & gracious invitations, in order to savor the quiet moments for the Haas' sanity. I have also learned the importance of "detaching and engaging" so I can be solely focused on seeing their smiles. I protect their hearts and mine when we make this simple commitment. I protect by sometimes saying no to them too. It's ok. They are ok. They survive our "No's". They haven't melted into green slime by our "No's". I may not get the "Cool Mom" vibe or return eyes, and it's ok. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I play.</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I make time to play. When I play, I wanna play free & exhaustively hard. I like play time. I like having times with my husband on dates where we get to keep our romance kindled. I cherish the time with my "girls" who I keep accountable with laughter and grace! I love to play with my kids, taking them on adventures and watching their eyes intensely in the quiet moments too. I make time for play time now like never before. It keeps me healthy. It keeps me smiling. It does wonders for Super Powers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">As you obey what God has asked you to do, in parenting, your job or school - whatever He has asked - He will give the grace to you to do it. Super Powers Unite!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Now, I'm off to fight the villains once again!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Fight On!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-7709539658013866482014-08-20T23:54:00.001-04:002014-08-23T15:49:42.803-04:00It's A Family Business<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtD4Xg9FV8NjV483gJm2Q9gIhQEbE_3S7GKHH1a57eANOHmYl9ft99W26Juc7VQh0lKVewL74DF5AUayVnhqLHd8vl_-cCtzVij-fgK2W4QTlfop8orEnq0ovwpfC4dwecLH1iRVTkA4/s1600/Haas+Family+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtD4Xg9FV8NjV483gJm2Q9gIhQEbE_3S7GKHH1a57eANOHmYl9ft99W26Juc7VQh0lKVewL74DF5AUayVnhqLHd8vl_-cCtzVij-fgK2W4QTlfop8orEnq0ovwpfC4dwecLH1iRVTkA4/s1600/Haas+Family+2013.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I know some families may not understand or can't comprehend, why we choose to do what we do & how we do what we do. That's OK. Some may take a big gasp when they see our "normal" schedule ... but ... as for the Haas', we have decided to do this adventure together. We make it work. We choose this. We do this as a team. We see this life intertwined with ministry and family a normal, our normal, and one without hesitation, that we are the biggest cheerleaders for!<br /> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You see ...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We get to serve.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We get to serve together.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We choose to serve as a team.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We are called to do this together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Before Chris & I both came on team, into full time ministry roles, we did this for years, Almost 14 years! This has been our normal since the kids were born. We were talking recently that we recall Daniel playing in the "pack & play" at 7am while we worked at the church, setting up "mobile church", on Sundays, and his first ministry experience was youth camp at 7 weeks old. Our kids have seen most area's of the church at work - youth ministry, administration, church planting, outreach, worship, life groups, kids ministries ... they have been there through it all. Our kids have had the extravagant benefit of seeing ministry at it's rawest forms. Seeing broken people, just like us, be fully healed, freed and cared for by God's church and God's love.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">They get to learn principles of leadership, grace and care from the front lines.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">They get to see forgiveness in it's most treasured view - when they mess up and when we mess up. We practice grace often and freely.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We get to watch God grow talents and passions in our kids that we could have never dreamed of. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I would not change a thing of choosing to do this as a team with our kids! I love seeing our kids on the front lines of ministry each week! We have never allowed our "kids" to be an excuse, to not to serve, or to limit our serving in church. We love having them with us as we love others. They are learning how to care best for others and learning of sacrifice and grace each day. We have always wanted to put deep roots down with our kids to understand the value of serving others, what better place than the church! After all, Jesus as a child, was found in the temple, "about His Father's business". It's been a purposed choice to provide a place for our kids (and many others), to serve at church. We believe that destiny is attached to serving & giving. We believe that gifts and abilities are developed in each of us as we serve others. We believe leadership can be developed and given at young ages. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Over the last 5 years, I can recall weekend after weekend, Eliana pulling the set-up & tear-down carts in from the Set-Up/Truck Team as we had lots of mobile church prep happening. Every Saturday morning at 9am, our girl would help unload, set up classrooms, tape down where the tables were located so they can go back to their "correct" place, then she would do a "walk-thru" the 5 kids classrooms to make sure all the pieces were in place. I'm sure our girl will one day run the show for mobile churches everywhere! She's an expert church consultant now at age 9! She not only got to see the details behind the scenes in preparing the areas, but she learned early her role in helping to prepare the atmosphere by her prayers. Many weekends she would walk through the halls of our mobile church and pray the greatest of simple but strong, faithful prayers over the families who would enter our doors. That's something I will never turn my back on! She understands that God can use her!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We've seen Daniel learn almost every skill needed to run a full worship experience, and we have seen him gain relationships with leaders in his life that will forever prepare him for ministry that God has ahead. He is a faithful champion who loves the local church! Seeing him love God's house and the people of God's house will be forever a part of our heart. The dreams that God has put in him couldn't have taken the form they have if we didn't do this as a team. I may not understand the "camera functions" or angles they need to capture, nor may I understand the "riff" of a section of a song, but the conversations we have frequently of what God is teaching him through honoring others, caring for others and serving well - I get that! The plans God has put in his heart as a teen, are a direct result of serving as a child. He is devoted to his serving times, and loves to see God's love become real to others. He has big dreams to lead in worship, what we remind him of is that he already is. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> Of course we are proud of our kids and all God is teaching them, but more than those pieces, we are thankful. Thankful to have the opportunity to have a front row view to see what God can do in them and through them. Their faith is big. Their grace for others is relentless. Their hearts are ready. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">At first when they were little ones, of course - they had no choice to go with us. They were right alongside us serving as we served. As time has passed, they want to serve. They want to be at church. They want to serve. (I won't even start on this post of the complaints Chris and I receive if we take a weekend and go on vacation - "Mom, I can't miss church. I don't want to miss church! ... is just a little glimpse). They want to be in God's house. They want to be leading people to God's love. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you are not serving in your local church. Start. Now. This weekend. Serve. Find a way to serve. Someone is waiting on you to say YES. Find a way to involve your kids. Bring your family with you. Bring someone with you. God purposefully created the two greatest forms of community - the family and the church. God designed these to work in partnership together. These are the most powerful institutions God has designed. Get on board with His design!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Now get moving ...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Continuing the family business ...</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-33338385190418622932014-07-26T22:51:00.001-04:002016-01-04T20:09:56.504-05:00I Think I Like Who I'm Becoming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I had a hard time with this one. I had found this "favorite quote" on Pinterest a few months back and I hesitated for such a long time to even consider posting this.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Why?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I had always been taught that it could be interpreted as arrogant, conceited and frivolous to say that I liked myself. I'm stripping that off. That mockery is done. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A few weeks ago I had the courage to finally share this simple, but powerful statement. It's freeing to share this exclamation.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Why? ...</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like that I've released myself from a place of contrite criticism of myself. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like what I am seeing God consistently correct in me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like that I have given up places, circumstances and seasons I previously needed to control. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like the healing that God has brought to me, my spirit and my hope. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like that I'm growing through failures, weakness and fears - everyday. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like the strength that surprises me, when I see His Holy Spirit direct me - quietly and quickly. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like the choices I've made to trust what He has asked of me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like the hard days, hard relationships and hard decisions, I didn't think I could come through, or step away from - His grace was there. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like me, knowing without His Word and His presence, I am nothing.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I like that I am sweetly His, still learning to be His.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's simple. I like WHAT I'm becoming. I like WHO I am becoming, more of His! It's good (and painful, hilarious, exhilarating, adventurous, a little scarry too), to see what God is growing. I'll take it. Every detail. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's OK for me to like me. It's OK to give myself a chance. It's OK for me to watch Him create a better me, and consider it good. I like me, because I'm His. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I want Him to be seen. I want His love to be known. </span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What are you becoming? </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What is holding you back? </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What do you like about you? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Answering these three questions can share a lot about your story. What pieces are hard for you to answer?</span></span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Continuously Becoming ...</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Nickie </span></span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-64544930665775707512014-07-14T23:20:00.003-04:002014-07-14T23:22:47.263-04:00Make Room!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UxCxbqMEj2tViMJurrLM45zCrRAYDUTcgYdoUAkDSNHG1_cDN04k09DXL1accEUNU28YwmmwmDw1CcrJfQhAk53GtPTPVU4uZixVh-RHPwnz81_1Gt5rh4iy0P-bafDFrlh1APxnixI/s1600/calendar+app.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UxCxbqMEj2tViMJurrLM45zCrRAYDUTcgYdoUAkDSNHG1_cDN04k09DXL1accEUNU28YwmmwmDw1CcrJfQhAk53GtPTPVU4uZixVh-RHPwnz81_1Gt5rh4iy0P-bafDFrlh1APxnixI/s1600/calendar+app.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This summer has flown by and I have no idea how it's already mid July without my permission! I didn't plan for time to go this fast! Whoa!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Over the last few weeks, I've experienced an echo throughout the days that simply reminds me of this simple ask ... Make Room.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This summer has been pretty much non-stop and our calendar's have been quickly, but intentionally, filled up - with not a lot of room to budge. You see, both Chris and I, like to have a plan. We like to know the plan. We prefer to plan for the plan, and we like to live with the plan. We are plan people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We have also been given all of the necessary "leadership tools" in the kit to know how to invest our days well and to always make sure we are #1. Making time for Jesus. #2. Making time for our marriage and kids, and #3. Making sure our time does not get sabotaged. Over the last few years, we have also been taught well to "pick our day off & protect our day off". We do take time to rest and recover together - we do that well and the others as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Here is where I need to "Make Room" ... with the spontaneous! I've been guilty of having such a bad rapport of denying the spontaneous. I am the one who has a tendency to sabotage my days by not making room for the spontaneous. Am I so consumed by the "the list", "the plan", that I am forgetting to allow the surprises to arrive for me? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I must evaluate ME and my reply. Am I "making room"?</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Do I reply to that surprise invitation to sit by the pool, on a wonderfully warm Memorial Day? ... Even though I had no food prepared to take for a 1 hr arrival time, and against all social etiquette norms that was in me, I brought deli items to share, not a standard home cooked item from my recipe repertoire! Oh my! Or lest I mention the excuse of my white Irish legs that have not been touched by one sun beam in over a year? Oh my! ... I chose to arrive, smile and laugh - while using SPF 50 on the legs. I needed this day - to connect pieces of my heart! 5 weeks later, I'm still applying the SPF 50 thick! I'm Irish!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Do I reply to a faithful, 23 year friendship, with an excuse when she surprises me while being in town from Orlando and wants a late night dinner chat? Or do I take on the heels that have been worn through a long day, throw those things back on my coral colored toes and make this night count for my friend - and for me? Yes! ... And the best discovery is to see how God orchestrated the details to bring both of us together, on this night, to answer both of our prayers for specific dreams as women leading in ministry! Do I dare mention the laughs shared and the reminders of what God has done over these years that will carry us on into this new season? Or what about the laughs of "can you believe we did that"??? It was worth every second! I needed this spontaneous moment!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">What about the moment on a busy Sunday morning, when my daughter's heart was broken, all because she had to stay farewell to her beloved little lizard friend Henry, as she had to return him to the wild? In that moment I had a choice ... "Do I busily get back to work - pushing aside her heart, or take a moment to hug her heart and let her cry?" People needed me. Tasks needed to be done. The morning prep work was calling. I chose to stop. I chose to listen to her heart. I chose to "make room" in that moment to allow her to be the wonderfully creative & spunky 9 year old little girl, who loves with all of her heart, every little slimy gross green creature, beetle & critter. I chose to make room for her share the pain of letting go. I had to make room to heal her heart, and in return, my heart was healed from the rush of the day! </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I must make room for the spontaneous joys & interruptive moments that God has provided for me to live in, learn by and laugh with!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />I know that there is no way I can never reply to them all. I may have to decline to a few invitations as time comes, but I will clear the space - on my calendar app, on paper and in my heart. I will make more room. I've got to leave space for the spontaneous! I'm learning calendar entry by calendar entry, to "make room", watching how He directs my days. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Watch out for a spontaneous invite from me - you never know where the adventure might take us! As long as we pursue it together - there's no ending the fun!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Make Room! Lots of adventures await for us!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Nickie</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-12152663762599490842014-06-05T10:33:00.003-04:002014-06-05T13:42:52.906-04:00Let It Go!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAU47R5JC-9guQ5erli6uBhvBA87Y7N9kzBorM8IXYRC9j1GR941L-uk5oqB3jI69PeIHwk16KGMg7au4jVaMgwHTxsrXYlpDLNHvEnf7Laj7WBySFyMmq83o4zjbPEjNcBO5Cwi9lv_I/s1600/let+it+go+pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAU47R5JC-9guQ5erli6uBhvBA87Y7N9kzBorM8IXYRC9j1GR941L-uk5oqB3jI69PeIHwk16KGMg7au4jVaMgwHTxsrXYlpDLNHvEnf7Laj7WBySFyMmq83o4zjbPEjNcBO5Cwi9lv_I/s1600/let+it+go+pink.jpg" height="145" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This morning didn't quiet start out how I had hoped or planned. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The day began as normal with my quiet conversation with Jesus. Then here is the view ...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Getting the face, hair and wardrobe just right for the day. Let's go! </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Grooming done. Teeth brushed. Let's go! </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Bag's fully packed for my trek to the office, complete with my calendar set, planner filled and project list updated. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Lots to do. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Lots of passion to give to my day! Let's go! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sitter arrives. Let's go! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">To the car I go. Start car. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">No go!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Insert adjustments ... Car refuses my commands. Grrrrrrr ... Plans now to be adjusted.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">As I sit here waiting, for the faithful AAA rescuer on the way ... here is my honest view. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I wonder. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I think. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I grumble. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I take a deep breath in complete frustration again ... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"Let's go! I want to get it all in today! I gotta go. We gotta get this day started". </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Insert grumbling again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Deep breath. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Check time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Roll eyes at the car. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Grab another sip of coffee.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Think about saying not so nice things to the car. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Cancel meetings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Breathe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'm interrupted, gently - but with attention. "Let it go! Stop & Watch. Hear Me. Trust Me". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This time, in this moment, it's a different view. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'm listening ... How to LET IT GO.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'm watching ... How He directs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'm learning how to LET IT GO, and trusting that's He's got me ... and this crazy car repair day!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'm waiting. Anticipating.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I smile.</span><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>When He asks you to "Let It Go", will you trust Him?</b></span></i></b><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+17:33&version=NLT">Luke 17:33</a></b></span></i></b>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
If you cling to your life, you will lose it, and if you let your life go, you will save it.</span></i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-27443037847155714672014-04-07T20:45:00.001-04:002016-01-09T09:17:12.336-05:00You Haven't Been Dropped!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscGrzgte22diMCNFHeoPqmwDWQVp-Q25vO8mbDeLXUKt472e0AoXJbiLirJvm_8S3zjHk8swNPwX9grtqVEkrqJb_-qJ4E7aCk7PsFygWpZjA0_oc4crSZHbxrhI2143NKtKjVg-O83k/s1600/don't+be+afraid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscGrzgte22diMCNFHeoPqmwDWQVp-Q25vO8mbDeLXUKt472e0AoXJbiLirJvm_8S3zjHk8swNPwX9grtqVEkrqJb_-qJ4E7aCk7PsFygWpZjA0_oc4crSZHbxrhI2143NKtKjVg-O83k/s1600/don't+be+afraid.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Have you ever been dropped? I have! I can imagine the laughing comments now of "oh now that explains a lot about her!"... Ha Ha! I can handle the laughs! Bring them on! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I remember being a small girl, probably around 4 years old, riding on my Dad's shoulders and walking up a huge hill by our house! He felt horrible when suddenly he lost his grip and I decided I wanted to let go and tumbled off his shoulders! My dad didn't intentionally let me go. I am sure I was the cause in the tumble. After all I had a huge, 4 year old need, to wiggle out of his secure arms & wanting to get down and run run run! I was 4! My Dad still feel's horrible many years later for this incident, so please laugh along with me (and Him), next time you see my Dad!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here is the point ... This has been sticking with me over the last few weeks and I just have to share what God is depositing into my view!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We all have a little 4 year old person inside of us that get's impatient! We want it "our way", not understanding that the Dad is wanting to keep us secure, protected and provided for. If we stay on His shoulders, not only is the ride a little more adventurous (and more secure), but His view also offers a more tremendous view! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here is what I've seen from the view of His shoulder!</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>I've seen that when God asks me to take on an assignment, when He pick's me ... I'm His & He doesn't back down from choosing me. </b> I wasn't the last to be chosen on the playground. I'm His. Even with all of my short comings, failures and potential embarrassing laughs, wiggles and falls - I'm His. You are His. Be assured that He has chosen YOU! He knows what He is doing!</span></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>I've seen that His shoulder view is a place of great protection. </b> His shoulder is a place where He will provide everything that is needed. He will provide grace when I lack. He will provide strength when I feel torn. He will provide courage when I feel threatened. He will provide peace when there is panic. When I try to wiggle out, He's got a grip on me that cannot be distracted. I've seen that He hold's me steady & firm. I'm His. There is safety when I'm with Him. When you obey what God asks of you, you are under His protective guard. Even when you feel like you are tumbling away from His grip, He is there. Let him hold your hand. He's not gonna let go. Don't let fear bring the tumble. Enjoy the view of how He works for you!</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hold on tight! Laugh & wiggle all you want! He's got this! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Enjoy this new view! He picked you!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Isaiah 41:8-10 MSG<br /> “I’ve picked you. I haven’t dropped you. Don’t
panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give
you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on
you."</span></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-27249972473276610482014-01-01T13:10:00.000-05:002014-01-01T13:10:15.270-05:00Sheep - He Counts Them. He Leads Them. He Shear's Them. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjJHzLoH4lbiDZLzvMgNDMRq7TdE_pITdOuq5WinXG-yJyR9G2yOe0R-pt1NH8ImX7wBnSSV9YiGoHAvcYnt-PILBn4j26574J983JcUy2H5nS6j20oPhShQySCegUsy5RVXfemGkMNw/s1600/1387770_10151777478278110_1123513113_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjJHzLoH4lbiDZLzvMgNDMRq7TdE_pITdOuq5WinXG-yJyR9G2yOe0R-pt1NH8ImX7wBnSSV9YiGoHAvcYnt-PILBn4j26574J983JcUy2H5nS6j20oPhShQySCegUsy5RVXfemGkMNw/s320/1387770_10151777478278110_1123513113_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2013 was a great year for the Haas'! </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We stood in awe at God's continual goodness over our lives, again and again! </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God strengthened my body and my heart through cancer, and gave Chris a peace to lead us through with joy, that only God could do. </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God provided a way, when others said there would be "no way"! God provided! </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God resurrected dreams that we thought had been forgotten, and broken into too many pieces. God guarded and shielded us - every day, every moment. He was there. He was a faithful shepherd!</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just like a good shepherd ...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He was leading us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He was guarding us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He was feeding us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He sheared us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He counted us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The thing that has stuck out more than ever in this season, is realizing this simple truth. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He took what was sheared off (worry, fear, lost hope), and made it into something beautiful and protective from brutal elements. Just like when wool is sheared, it then creates something more beautiful to help protect from the cold elements or to help bring comfort to many. God sheared and continues to make something beautiful with the Haas' messy wool.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We can confidently say, God did this with our lives this year. Our story of God's faithfulness was shared. God's love was given. We had to trust Him completely to take these pieces and create a beautiful tapestry. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As 2014 arrives, we are more determined than ever, to fulfill all God is asking. We are excited and humbled, to see God's love for us be once again beautifully on display - along with all of the broken and beautiful pieces that make up this tapestry!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">What areas are you trusting God to be the Good Shepherd? Caring for you? Providing for you? Leading you? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">We are praying for your 2014 to be a year full of God's faithful love! Trust the shearing!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-9535758801164339272013-11-07T23:07:00.000-05:002013-11-07T23:07:48.175-05:00The Beauty Of "It"!<div class="header">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVulfGIZMSV2qo09D9gXkyLx5lmvQgCqU4CoGmMHolNrr6ynae9o3GCfJeHC3d6w72cP0LeQ0lrnBWCaEoxcd8szf5s40kh4cdE6FE5lstfYU86p5FZcHFccrnaENk2_jfJr2H2N4df04/s1600/butterflies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVulfGIZMSV2qo09D9gXkyLx5lmvQgCqU4CoGmMHolNrr6ynae9o3GCfJeHC3d6w72cP0LeQ0lrnBWCaEoxcd8szf5s40kh4cdE6FE5lstfYU86p5FZcHFccrnaENk2_jfJr2H2N4df04/s400/butterflies.jpg" width="225" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Over the last few weeks thru various conversations, this word - PRESSURE - has surfaced more than a few times. I've noticed that many want to avoid it! Or they haven't been taught how to welcome it! To many it's like a plague or disease! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This summer while on vacation, we got to spend several days at a secluded mountain cabin. While enjoying the front porch river view, I noticed these huge butterfly bushes that attracted hundreds of butterflies. I mean hundreds! They were breathtakingly beautiful! Colors filled each wing tip uniquely and perfectly. Each flutter was perfectly timed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I would like to think that God put these little winged beauties on display just for me! I had finally stopped and sat long enough to capture this view! (Those who know me, know that I typically don't like to reside in quiet places for too long, nor to sit or stop - for too long!). My eyes were glued to these little gems! Some even landed on my hand before launching off to their next stop!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's hard for me to comprehend how our God is so creative that He designed this little critter, so intricately in every detail, but it has to endure various "seasons" of pressure to get to the beauty. The butterflies aren't that glamored up and pretty when they are slimy caterpillar's. Believe me, I avoid them! Seriously, don't bring caterpillar's near me!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I may not know why He created them with this kind of process to get to the beauty, with a defined season, but I am thankful for the chance to enjoy their colors in their final stage! In the seasons of our lives, we may walk through pressures too. Some may be from crazy schedules, high demand jobs, financial challenges, relationships, grief or failures. I am confident that God has a purpose with each of these. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We've got to get it deep within our minds that God purposed "pressure" isn't bad! If you allow God the chance and the room in the season you are in, He will reveal to you the beauty. </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You may have to wait for it - The Beauty! You can't rush this. Don't try to skip a step, or a season, or a moment - to avoid the pressure. If you do, you are going to miss the fullness of all He is trying to accomplish in you. The beautiful you!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You may have to "shed" some things off to get to it - The Beauty! Maybe it's an attitude, a past filled with regret, an unhealthy relationship, a perspective. What needs to be adjusted? What needs to be "taken off" so you can see the beautiful view clearly? It may hurt. But if we trust it - the beauty will be worth it.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> You may have to adjust the compass. God pressure is attempting to force you into a certain position or direction. Dependence on Him, not yourself. Fully giving worship and honor to God & His plan! Why fight it? </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You may have to journey through some rough places (thorns, bushes & barren lands with no nectar or sweetness) to discover it - the beauty of YOU! In these rough places, you could feel alone, forgotten, abandoned. This isn't a terrain many dare to go. This last leg of the journey is for the brave. This step is for those who know there is beauty waiting, if they dare journey through. If you forfeit here, you could get stuck. Will you choose to push through the thorns? Lonely places? Fearful moments? Or stay back - avoiding and running from it (the beauty), again?</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Don't you dare miss this! Trust Him to show you the beauty and make the pressure beautiful! He is a Master at this! We can trust Him. </span><br />
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<a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/press" target="_blank">Dictionary.com </a></h2>
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press/pressure</h2>
<sup><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword"></span></span></sup><span class="pg"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword"></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="dnindex"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">1. </span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">act</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">upon</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">with</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">steadily</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">applied</span> </span><a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/weight">weight</a><span id="hotword"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> </span><a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/force">force</a><span id="hotword">. </span></div>
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<span class="dnindex"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">2. </span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">move</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">by</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">weight</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">force</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">a</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">certain</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">direction</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">into</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">a</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">certain</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">position:</span> </span><span class="ital-inline"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">The</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">crowd</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">pressed</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">him</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">into</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">a</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">corner.</span> </span></span> </div>
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<span class="dnindex"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">3. </span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">compress</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">squeeze,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">as</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">alter</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">shape</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">size:</span> </span><span class="ital-inline"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">He</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">pressed</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">the</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">clay</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">into</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">a</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">ball.</span> </span></span> </div>
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<span class="dnindex"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">4. </span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">weigh</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">heavily</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">upon;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">subject</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">to</span> </span><a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/pressure" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">pressure</a><span id="hotword">. </span></div>
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<span class="dnindex"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">5. </span></span></span><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">hold</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">closely,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">as</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">an</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">embrace;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">clasp:</span> </span><span class="ital-inline"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">He</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">pressed</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">her</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">his</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default; text-decoration: none;">arms.</span> </span></span> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-67457567727183591062013-10-23T23:37:00.003-04:002013-10-24T07:31:04.209-04:00Shovels May Be RequiredIt's that time of year where I will plant properly, the spring bulbs I want to see blooming in the spring. I don't normally hold gardening talents that label me with a "green thumb award" from the local county fair, so I need to read and learn all I can, to make sure I'm preparing purposefully for the beauty I want to see ahead. I know it's important for me to space out these bulbs out for growth, to plant before a frost arrives and to be aware of the health of the soil I plant in. It's also important that I have the right tools to help me in the growing.<br />
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The same is true with growing leaders. At <a href="http://www.freedomhouse.cc/" target="_blank">Freedom House</a> & <a href="http://www.freedomhouse.cc/fhkids" target="_blank">Freedom House Kids</a>, growing leaders is a big deal! It's a passion like none other! Just as I want the bulbs to provide beauty in the next season, leaders must be purposefully prepared & ready for the next season God has in store! <br />
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Over the last few months, our FHkids leadership teams have been digging deep! <br />
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<li>They have navigated the tools together - digging into several great teaching resources (tools). </li>
<li>They have invested together - cultivating mentoring time (soil) with the leaders. </li>
<li>They have provided safety together - offering a safe environment (atmosphere) for current leaders and growing leaders to "dig deep". </li>
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All of these things have to work together to bring the beauty in the next season. <br />
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The courage that these leaders have given, is breathtaking. They have been brave, faithful and passionate to pursue God's best for their lives. Digging deep has often required them to step into areas that they didn't know were still "rocky" in the underbrush. Digging deep has required them to be vulnerable, many trusting for the first time after "harsh, cold seasons" had come and gone. <br />
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The beauty of watching a new confidence and passion in their leadership that may have been buried, pushed aside, forgotten - for long cold seasons, finally pushing thru the barriers - is astoundingly beautiful! Just like the multicolored rows of tulips that will line my front porch in the spring!<br />
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Chris and I are so proud of these leaders! What fun it has been to learn along with them! What a sight to see! We love having this awesome view of watching God at work!<br />
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A few have asked ... "What are your top recommended books?". There are so many fabulous resources to share, but here are a few of the non-negotiables that The Haas' hold close. <br />
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Grab yourself a copy, grab the shovel and dig in!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-49606543206801391862013-10-23T01:42:00.002-04:002013-10-23T02:29:42.506-04:00A Time To Twirl!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxMXy2paGF2iPgFUUcPwS2NWPT48KCHb2QjdRx5Bhvxc-QIlKBdtMK-1KIi6fz4R-k0WAFBqhOIjbrrGkhWuDsDuf3LU9OMrN_K9jfq5IfDktpFlNrtf6_ISfxSrtUvcs_VGTgOjYtQU/s1600/1408168_10151797698238110_1161792778_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxMXy2paGF2iPgFUUcPwS2NWPT48KCHb2QjdRx5Bhvxc-QIlKBdtMK-1KIi6fz4R-k0WAFBqhOIjbrrGkhWuDsDuf3LU9OMrN_K9jfq5IfDktpFlNrtf6_ISfxSrtUvcs_VGTgOjYtQU/s400/1408168_10151797698238110_1161792778_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The last 48 hours have changed me. Capturing the undivided, uninterrupted moments with my girl have shifted something in me. I may not be able explain it adequately, but taking the time to "BE" with her has created a new passion in me I didn't expect to discover!<br />
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What began as a restful, quiet, but let's pack it all in - "Haas Girls Getaway", ended with so much more!<br />
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As I was sitting on the shoreline, watching my girl twirl fearlessly in the Atlantic sand, my heart was mesmerized! She danced, she jumped, she twirled, she laughed, she chased, she smiled. I watched her from a new view. A view that displayed her courageous spirit. Regardless of what was around her, she came to play! Regardless of the chilled temperature of the Atlantic shore - she came to twirl in the sand and soak her toes in the fresh waves! Regardless of what others were doing or not doing around her - she came to laugh and BE her! <br />
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It got me thinking ...<br />
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I admire her courage. I admire her strength. I admire her faith. I admire her laughs. I admire her twirl! <br />
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How often have I limited or discredited a moment? Moment's bring memorials or regret. Moment's lead to days, then years. Moment's define us. I knew in that moment, that I could not let it pass me by. Moment's with my husband and children are some of the most intimate times that God will use to help bring a new definition or gentle reminder into my life. It could be a new perspective, an attitude that needs to be shifted or a defined place to trust God with complete courage to what He has created me to be and to do. <br />
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The last 48 hours helped rediscover something in me. I left with a renewed passion to be me - more of what God has asked of me. I will laugh hysterically - frequently and more purposefully. I will twirl without fear - making room for more celebrations & inviting others to enjoy the dance with me. I will step in to this season with all that I am, with everything that God has purposed - regardless of what I see, hear of feel ... or how cold/frigid the temps might be or the scare of jelly fish nearby! <br />
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In Ecclesiastes 3, it says, there is a time and season for everything! This is the Haas' time to dance!<br />
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If you see me twirling nearby - be sure to come and join me!<br />
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Twirl for a moment! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-66342971142357016402013-10-02T09:00:00.000-04:002013-10-01T20:26:20.409-04:00"What Are You Planting?" ... Growing Leaders At Freedom House Kids!<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A lot of fabulous new things have been growing inside of the Haas' view over the last few months! We can't wait to share all God has been doing from this view! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We've been asked frequently of the details of why we have began a new focus of developing new leaders and how it all got started! Many have wanted to sit and "dig in" to our experience of what it's been like to grow new leaders with Freedom House Kids and with our team at Freedom House! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We are excited to share that over the next few weeks, we are going to share a few of our "lessons learned" in our adventure! We'll share a few of the challenges, the celebrations, a few of our "misses" and the practical tools and wisdom we were able to apply. It's truly been an honor to walk thru the last 5 months with this core team of new leaders and be able to watch God deposit and grow such vast promises in each of them!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Stay tuned for more coming this week as we share a few of the FHkids team organizational ideas' we've navigated, leadership resources that we have dove deep in to learn and apply ... and more! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We look forward to hearing of how you are growing leaders around you as well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dig deep! Plant well! Enjoy the Harvest! </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-6151329928429119202013-10-01T20:25:00.005-04:002013-10-01T20:27:44.168-04:00What Are You Reading?<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've been on a reading frenzy lately, seeking and finding some great resources for families!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here are a few of my favorite new finds and resources that have impacted my life and my family!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here ya go!</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The Sacred Echo - Margaret Fienberg</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A Young Man After God's Own Heart - Jim George</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jesus Calling For Kids - Sarah Young</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Over the last two months I've been watching with a front row view God's fresh Word affect me and my family. Let me remind you ... Leaders are readers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What are you reading that has impacted you? </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-30254148038352762172012-06-04T10:56:00.000-04:002012-06-04T11:21:31.167-04:00It's Summer Time!It's Summer Time!<br />
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<i>This summer I want to turn the sprinklers on for my kids and run through them with them. </i><br />
<i>This summer I want to let them have ice cream for morning snack.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to stop more, play more, and listen more.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to play dress up with my girl and let her glam me with glitter and pearls!</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to slow down and watch my kids have a blast in our home.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to take morning walks with my kids.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to take them to the park more often - even if it's hot, humid and buggy!</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to make berry shortcake with whipped cream for dinner.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to make a batch of homemade lemonade and sit on the deck it with my family.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to create memories of laughter with my family!</i><br />
<br />
This summer I want to make sure that those little times, those pedals
and pushes, and late afternoon hours playing together before a muggy
thunderstorm rolls in really matters - in fact, really happens.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjks8xPT4bsIUYt4E-BwS0QOYV5i49O3ilQZLLP0zkdFZbXY7eNFOScQPlPozaJIbgbE_BSkoUoCh8mDc3_X3RxQ2kJYApT_iBYXKzO5lxfS45UApodOMw2qlh5TAM4ejwsyC7X2KDqE9E/s1600/may+%2810+%29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="spotlight" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/310693_10150278282833110_3536959_n.jpg" style="height: 700px; width: 419px;" /></a></div>
<br />
After all, look at them. Growing up.<br />
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Right in front of me. First they crawl, and then the walk, then they
run, then they ride their bikes, and scooter, and on and on growing.
Every day. One step older, one more moment of letting go.<br />
<br />
<i>This summer I want to take a bike ride next to them.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to play catch in the backyard.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to surprise them with really cool trips - beach, sand, fishing, fun!</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to remember to slow down.</i><br />
<i>This summer I will push through and try to understand that video game he really likes!</i><br />
<br />
But, if you are like me, we lose track of that thought. We get stuck in
the short sight - all we need to accomplish (that ever growing TO DO list!) or finish, or what they're
not doing right or what needs to change or what we're making for dinner -
that stuff. And we lose the idea that this day, this moment, this scooter ride down the hill and back, this matters.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjks8xPT4bsIUYt4E-BwS0QOYV5i49O3ilQZLLP0zkdFZbXY7eNFOScQPlPozaJIbgbE_BSkoUoCh8mDc3_X3RxQ2kJYApT_iBYXKzO5lxfS45UApodOMw2qlh5TAM4ejwsyC7X2KDqE9E/s1600/may+%2810+%29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/418501_10150548314888110_510828109_9041944_1742186452_n.jpg" style="height: 700px; width: 395px;" width="180" /></a></div>
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Yes, we absolutely have to do all the short every day to day stuff,
there's no way around it - the dishes, the TO DO list, the cleaning, the working, the laundry folding, etc - it's just part of life. But, we could get stuck only
doing the to-do list and missing those moments that we'll want to
remember. Are we really wanting to look back and remember that we got
all those dishes done or the laundry was perfectly caught up or we sent
that perfect tweet for <i>this summer</i> of 2012?<br />
<br />
<i>This summer I want to pay attention to the</i> <i>mom watch my cool trick moments</i>.<br />
<i>This summer I want to look with wonder at that bee in the flowers. </i><br />
<i>This summer I want to look at both my kids in the eyes and tell them how much I love them.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to take my oldest to see a late midnight movie.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to rest in the grass and look for cloud shapes with my seven year old.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to take them camping, real camping - in a tent on a cool mountain top.</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to worry less about the dirt and more about the heart.</i><br />
<br />
It's too easy to race through the day, being busy, and than get to the
end of the day when our little people need to go to bed and to realize that
less then ten minutes of time was really spent with them. Summer,
despite the lazy hazy days of summer line has the tendency to actually
race by with it's own form of busy. And, if we're not intentional the
summer could pass, <i>this summer</i>, without accomplishing many of the things in our hearts that we want to do.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkrYc1Y2O-CHCMAz1CzU6OJLdr14o_ZjegI0EgeJFQXCXumsemkQaRIpCdhV8T6UlWdcLLethe0pMdK_rKy9EoLlnRcjD9dsgxtxhxU6jBHouKPKVQEkL8snLCQisdtoE64j_AU-D2SE/s1600/may+%283+%29.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="spotlight" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/524459_10150766977363110_215412883_n.jpg" style="height: 700px; width: 428px;" /></a></div>
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Make a list, my friends, make a list. Sit down, take ten minutes, and
ponder what you really want to do, what would matter to your family, to
others this summer.<br />
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<i>This summer I want to surprise my husband with fabulous date nights, where I listen!</i><br />
<i>This summer I want to value our days and cherish every moment of his love for me!</i><br />
<i>This summer I will speak his love language and value every day we have been given! </i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i>This summer I will find creative ways to show how I appreciate all he gives to our home!</i><br />
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<i> </i><img alt="" class="spotlight" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/31376_384061358109_6723266_n.jpg" style="height: 540px; width: 720px;" /><br />
<br />
You've got your to-do lists. Now, add a<i> this summer</i> list. I've
shared with you a bit of my list in progress throughout the post. Will
you check everything off? Probably not. Will it make you more
intentional? Definitely yes. Before you know it this summer will be gone
- summer has a way of doing that - grab this time, this summer - and
really intentionally live capturing those moments that matter and that
you want to remember.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-38050652467257227562011-11-18T18:31:00.005-05:002011-11-19T10:18:38.095-05:00My Song<h1 class="text_ltr" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord. </b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Psalm 40:3 New Living Translation (NLT) </b></span> </span></h1><h1 class="text_ltr" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></h1><h1 class="text_ltr" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></h1><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I wish I had more of the creative, artistic ability to write a song from our part of the story from these last few weeks. Until I can employ or implore someone to help me write a song from this journey, I'll keep on singing LOUD in my own special, creative, "can't carry a tune in a bucket" kind of way! I can't keep quiet so I hope you will enjoy the tunes with me!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">On September 30th we began a journey of watching first hand being established on a different level of God's peace and authority! A level that has propelled us into a greater understanding of God's love, His protection, His power to heal and the power He gives to us as His children to withstand whatever the enemy may try to throw at you! Earlier in the year we knew we had heard a specific instruction in our prayer time of a promise God had for the Haas family in 2011! We have had a front row seat watching God's Word become living and active over our lives! </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Here's the story ... </b> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_YYkA4aPj_t4VaWcM_1_zvRXO30kRvNbxlq9TfRKFkYU-oc5ARbrKEud5eP1yW3meKEqHjWN3CkNw_PK-ICm7jueZ5WG_V4pWj1JINLkQyIf1psLd7gK7yAfxHSdZJkv30zDWQUkStY/s1600/iv+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI_YYkA4aPj_t4VaWcM_1_zvRXO30kRvNbxlq9TfRKFkYU-oc5ARbrKEud5eP1yW3meKEqHjWN3CkNw_PK-ICm7jueZ5WG_V4pWj1JINLkQyIf1psLd7gK7yAfxHSdZJkv30zDWQUkStY/s400/iv+tree.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
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</tbody></table><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chris had to have an emergency gall bladder removal on Friday, September 30th. What would normally be a routine surgery ended up resulting in a 24 day luxurious stay in the hospital and continuing in week 4 of his continued miraculous healing at home! The gall bladder removal had resulted in a bile duct rupture/leak that was not found until 6 days post surgery, causing his organ function to take a nose dive and begin to fail. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It was Thursday, October 6th and after 4 days of no sleep, I still strongly remember the doctors remarks of, "We are not sure Chris is going to be ok. He is in organ failure and multiple blood clots have been found in both lungs. We are going to do all that we can to help him and make him comfortable at this time. We will keep you posted". I saw their fear. I smelled the angst of enemy's tactics to try to take him out. I wasn't afraid of the doctor's expression or their uncontrolled fear. I can confidently shout that I was never afraid that Chris would die. I was tired yes, but I never feared for his life. I felt God's peace protecting every part of he and I - our minds, our physical bodies and our spirit. I knew God's promise to us would be seen! We needed a miracle and we knew we could depend on Him to show up!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The following weeks Chris had to have 3 drainage ports to help remove the bile off the organs. As every day passed, we began to see an increase of health in every organ! Each blood draw would confirm that every organ was getting stronger and stronger. Healing was happening! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Chris had not eaten ANYTHING for 2 and half weeks. He had lost over 25 lbs in since being admitted to the hospital! (His commentary, "It was the most expensive and difficult weight loss plan ever! Never do it! P90X is best!) We celebrated every step of healing - 1st ice chips eaten, 1st sips of clear fluids, 1st soft foods, then holy smokes - His 1st steps on a lovely walk with me! We were beyond thankful for the many calls, coffee deliveries (I'm still recovering from detox from the many Starbuck's cups consumed), meal deliveries for our family, fun care for our kids, and the many visitors and prayer partners around the world that has shown such love for us and many who stood firm for this miracle! We love you all so much and thank God for you!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's just like the enemy to try to take down another if he can't take down the initial rebel. We know how his tactics work to bring torment, confusion and destruction. Just so you know... he doesn't win! </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Here's the rest of the story that many don't know... </b>I had an intestinal illness that began to hit me on October 17th. A CT scan the following day showed great concern to the doctor. "We have found a 1/2" renal cell carcinoma on your left kidney. We see that there is a cancer spot on your left kidney Mrs. Haas. It is a great concern to us. You will need to see a specialist in 3 days". Yes, I said they found cancer in me! I remember sitting there in shock! Thinking to myself and saying loudly, "What! You have got to be kidding! There is no way! Really? What!". Imagine my confusion and issue of listening to this report after we just walked through Chris' attack? Can you imagine my emotions at that point - Having to go back upstairs, to room 2219 - to tell my husband, who by the way - almost died just 2 weeks ago, that I have been diagnosed with a type of cancer! </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am sure you could have seen the visible transition on my countenance as I had cried from being tired, confused, sleep deprived after a 21 day stay, getting healed up from stomach stuff to.. EXTREMELY MAD! I got violently mad, angry and yes ... a little more than mad. "You've messed with the wrong people this time! You have no idea who or what you are dealing with"! Something rose up in us that had never before. A resounding - ENOUGH! Back Off! A strength and confidence in God's power in us that could take any of the enemy's demon's - head on. Bring on your ugly self, we know how this ends, kind of mad! Chris and I declared against the gates of hell that this was FINISHED. We fasted. We prayed. We took communion there in the hospital room. We knew God could heal me! We had already seen a miracle of restoration in Chris' body! We knew almost every continent, friends in every timezone, friends across every continent was agreeing scriptures over us for healing! God would do what He promised! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">We've kept this close to our hearts, not allowing doubt to creep in. We worshiped bigger. We gave greater in our love, our serving, our trust, our obedience. We trusted a God who would be seen! We chose that day how to "take it to a whole 'notha level" (as Pastor Troy would say!) in our spiritual authority!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here's the continuing love story... Chris was able to come home on October 21st! He has been continuing to heal, rest and get a little "back to normal" with enjoying his favorites - reading, journaling, History Channel and laughing hysterically with the kids. His organ function is off the charts compared to where they were 3 weeks ago and he is gaining more and more strength each day. The doctors are amazed at his body healing so well! He can't wait to be fully back into action!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Here is the awesome, incredible, make you wanna shout news received this week! Yesterday, I received MRI results from last week's scan. Per the doctor, "Nickie your spot that "looked to be there", is inconclusive. It's so much smaller than a few weeks ago. This is not cancer. This is nothing that is of concern. Again, Nickie this is shrinking and it's not cancer. I'm not sure how all this happened so quickly. I don't want to see you again till April". People I tell you - <b>God heals</b>! <b>This chick is cancer FREE! </b></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Eliana said this in the car one night after visiting her Daddy at the hospital, "The devil is stupid and comes to only steal, kill and destroy stuff. I'm tired of him trying to do this to my family. I want to kick him in the crotch!". Yes... that's our girl! To help clarify to her, of course I had to explain to her how we "kick him where it hurts" when the enemy tries to devour our lives. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>Our Fighting Terms!</b></u></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. We worship bigger than we ever have! We press in. We did not allow circumstances to determine our level of adoration!</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">2. We surround our lives with the living Word! We were protective of allowing any doubt to creep in. We kept God's promises in the forefront of our lives and surrounded ourselves with those we knew would bombard the gates of hell with us with no doubt of watching God's healing be a part of our story.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">3. We pray & STAND! Agreeing with God's Word! Standing is not passive. It's active and sometimes takes more stamina and strength that taking that first step of a run. We stood and refused to be denied this miracle. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">What the enemy has tried to destroy is only going to propel God's kingdom further! We are excited to be a part of God's love story on display! </span></span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Many long nights while hearing the pumping sound of IV pumps, siren's entering the Emergency Room bay and between nurses visits, these promises were deposited deep into every part of Chris and I. </span></span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">I hope that you will allow God to birth in you a new song! </span></span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"> Sing loud!</span></span></h6><span style="font-size: small;"><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Psalm 138:3 The Message (MSG) The moment I called out, you stepped in; you made my life large with strength. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Psalm 57:7 My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident. No wonder I can sing your praises!"</span></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Psalm 118:6 The Message (MSG) God's now at my side and I'm not afraid; who would dare lay a hand on me? </span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Isaiah 41:9 New Living Translation (NLT) I have called you back from the ends of the earth, saying, ‘You are my servant.’ For I have chosen you and will not throw you away. </span></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">John 16:33 Amplified Bible (AMP) I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] </span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Isaiah 41:10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.</span></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Psalm 91:2 New Living Translation (NLT) This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. </span></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Isaiah 53:4-5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stipes we ARE healed. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">2 Chronicles 20:17 New Living Translation (NLT) But you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory. He is with you, Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord is with you!” </span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Joshua 21:25 Not one of all the Lord's good promises failed; every one was fulfilled!</span></span><br />
<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"></span></span></h6><div class="verse-content text_ltr" itemprop="description"><span class="verse Isa_41_11"><b></b></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-61449494173333230042011-08-23T23:09:00.001-04:002011-08-23T23:13:24.614-04:005 Of My Favorites!<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I had to write a post this month about a few of my favorite things!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm a pretty busy Mom, Wife and Friend! I love being busy and love doing all that I get to do. I sincerely enjoy my life! I don't know how many can really say that, but I really love each part I get to play! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have a few major things I'm a part of in this season and I love finding resources that keep me organized, encouraged and productive. A few of these roles include serving on staff at an amazing church in Children's Ministries, volunteering as Director for an annual non-profit fundraising 5K & Family Walk, homeschooling my 6th grade son and partnering monthly with our local YMCA to host monthly community prayer groups. I love all I get to do and it's truly an adventure! I love it! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">With all of these roles I have in addition to being wife, mom, daughter, sister and friend -I need tools to help keep me organized & focused! My strong sanguine fun girl tends to come out strong when I am not surrounded by organizational tools while balanced with fun resources! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here are my recent TOP 5 favorites! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQAm9remB0aY-LbLkYLznkdScjwzdkvHZ52PMAu7J2YTn3cw-WeaBrwT-5isyQ0bOuWpHtUEzrWqKC1hyGCSf09dczVJVHl9pEPQLokjIWAGQ_YT9tqL84l7icFJyK9K86avecUTiPMM/s1600/apprentice+organizer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQAm9remB0aY-LbLkYLznkdScjwzdkvHZ52PMAu7J2YTn3cw-WeaBrwT-5isyQ0bOuWpHtUEzrWqKC1hyGCSf09dczVJVHl9pEPQLokjIWAGQ_YT9tqL84l7icFJyK9K86avecUTiPMM/s320/apprentice+organizer.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. Staples Apprentice Rotating Desk Organizer</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">http://www.staples.com/Staples-The-Desk-Apprentice-Rotating-Desk-Organizer/product_597003</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love how I have so much space to store files, projects, supplies and all my favorite office tools! With all the many things I work on ... this was perfect for my desktop space! I love how it spins! Fun for this chick too!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">2. Frixion Erasable Pens - I enjoy knowing I can erase in my lesson planning notes, as well as any calendar updates or meeting notes! Colorful & clean! Much better than those old models!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3XsWZRxfsKOE1-kE1QQI5-DkJdlFSoc6kzRQNHUnwrOcyEZbXxsZLNFhqjwNVaeNcLJmgE4OOOYfzQMsr-5gRxVunsnIeZk1nYsH5BetDU7-MhAvOo-bryXrQuCdfR6Px6GMzvwXNagk/s1600/frixion+eraseable+pens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3XsWZRxfsKOE1-kE1QQI5-DkJdlFSoc6kzRQNHUnwrOcyEZbXxsZLNFhqjwNVaeNcLJmgE4OOOYfzQMsr-5gRxVunsnIeZk1nYsH5BetDU7-MhAvOo-bryXrQuCdfR6Px6GMzvwXNagk/s320/frixion+eraseable+pens.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif; font-size: small;">http://www.pilotpen.us/Categories/23-ErasableInk.aspx</span><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjipIEpcyE0Pv7U7rOFD823byAHedQxO8JTitWoEbYdHOiMEo72OpiX4D3dC8gfB656WhuyjRC2pJaDdFOmiU-m3e6mQNUcExmjm_VLxwCIgy5BuTVnPIVQcNDsBnSsHIpwlMAgx2Alb8/s1600/linkedin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjipIEpcyE0Pv7U7rOFD823byAHedQxO8JTitWoEbYdHOiMEo72OpiX4D3dC8gfB656WhuyjRC2pJaDdFOmiU-m3e6mQNUcExmjm_VLxwCIgy5BuTVnPIVQcNDsBnSsHIpwlMAgx2Alb8/s320/linkedin.jpg" width="320" /></a>3. Social Media - I stay connected with so many industry trends with all I am a part of through social media like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and also through many blog subscriptions! It's a great way to stay up to date with current trends in homeschool, ministry, family life, leadership and so much more! We have so much on our phones too to learn with! There is absolutely NO REASON to be out of the loop with current industry trends, news and updates with whatever you are a part of! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">www.facebook.com</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">www.linkedin.com</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Don't get me wrong, I love the printed pages of my hot pink Bible still just as much! But there's nothing like having this with me! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm off to spin my "apprentice organizer" happily! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">What are you using to keep things organized with the various roles you play?</span></div><br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-84470619082697299712011-06-06T10:15:00.000-04:002013-10-01T20:28:45.810-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZbfiJxQrTe_yy7rE4SrKhoGlF4bI1xGQoperciZo4ZsxiDWEr7livZqILl_Kf4Jg33AehhJVHWA6nXzznGXjvnrNONV6or6FwRFijRN_qTlqXxVXKvt-m6hT5Uvbol7A71BKaWzG5zvc/s1600/i_love_my_voice_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZbfiJxQrTe_yy7rE4SrKhoGlF4bI1xGQoperciZo4ZsxiDWEr7livZqILl_Kf4Jg33AehhJVHWA6nXzznGXjvnrNONV6or6FwRFijRN_qTlqXxVXKvt-m6hT5Uvbol7A71BKaWzG5zvc/s400/i_love_my_voice_.jpg" width="326" /></a></div>
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I was in an online conversation a few weeks back and after confronting a situation that was dishonoring to another, the person asked me "So it was YOUR place to publicly tell me I was dishonoring?" ... my reply to this "friend" was, "YES"! God placed me in this conversation to SPEAK. Not to yell, attack, belittle or slander - but to SPEAK. I have a voice. I'm on this journey of learning to love my voice like my Father loves my voice. To see that my voice brings value, grace and even restoration in the middle of a confrontation.</div>
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It got me thinking and stirred me to really reflect on what God's design was for me in this season. You see, in the past I'd been quiet on some things that I really should've brought a greater (not louder) voice to. Oh sure, I have shared my "two cents" a few times when given the chance or welcome. I'm not talking about joining in on the ranting and public disagreements that may be seen on street corner protests. I'm speaking of the inner quiet voice, many times in the private settings of conversation and friendship, when God challenges you to SPEAK. That kind of challenge may be to speak up on the behalf of someone who may be lowly in spirit. The challenge to speak up to bring honor back to a life or a place. The challenge to ask friends hard questions when lives seem to be going in a little different direction. The challenge to speak up when your loyalty to vision is questioned. The voice had not spoken many times due to fear and insecurity. Speaking up can sometimes bring correction, then healing - in me just as much as others. Speaking up is the reflection of God's heart. </div>
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In this season, I'm more aware and reminded that God has given me a voice. A voice that can listen to when my Father wants me to speak, with the voice He wants me to speak. I have a voice - to speak, to ask, to share, to relate, to love. I'm learning to love my voice! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-36016630334166224252011-05-11T22:02:00.000-04:002011-05-13T16:37:58.587-04:00Captivated!Anyone who knows me, knows I like to be busy, active, engaged and captivated by life. I love every part of living and don't want to miss a thing! This has been a busy season for me, and I must declare to the world that I am loving each & every moment. In all that I get to be a part of, I really count it an honor to serve in the many areas that I have the chance to be connected to! <br />
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I am honored that God has given me an incredible husband and children to get to share this most sacred life with! I get to be a wife and Mom! Both childhood dreams that God has made happen! I get to serve God's house, God's people and connect others to His vision for freedom at Freedom House Church! I get to be a part of some incredible organizations who are impacting lives for restoration and healing like Mercy Ministries! I am surrounded by such loving, passionate people that I get to learn from, share life with and be on this adventure not isolated in a silo! I have long time devoted family & friends who I know love me and "have my back"! <br />
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It is such an honor to have this life. My life. I get to live this life! I get to live this life! I'm especially thankful for the crazy days, busy schedules, sibling arguments, burned dinners, wrinkled laundry - it's all mine! It means I'm living. I'm here. I'm captivated!<br />
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Tonight's blog may not be a bright lights, big "to-do" to you, but this heart is thankful, honored and captivated by God's love that He would think of me to be a part of this story!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-57273779040980137372011-04-28T00:06:00.001-04:002011-04-28T00:12:20.951-04:00I Believe I Can Fly!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxA8wB9pZJFu0M3NjRgYR7WaOzKoxNop8cdtww1W7UBafonMI3oYi_k7nmzTuaJNI6Z7JEMJOnwIBIe-9YkZEQhT64sfD5on6YKr-LkdJUpA3WN9BjbrOinAM_LbDJrzNBLqOWbAQLTg/s1600/eggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdxA8wB9pZJFu0M3NjRgYR7WaOzKoxNop8cdtww1W7UBafonMI3oYi_k7nmzTuaJNI6Z7JEMJOnwIBIe-9YkZEQhT64sfD5on6YKr-LkdJUpA3WN9BjbrOinAM_LbDJrzNBLqOWbAQLTg/s400/eggs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Over the last few weeks we've had a wonderful front row seat watching spring life unfold! It's been a great learning opportunity on our homeschool journey, but it's also stirred up a few great reminders for my own heart. </div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A little Starling bird had built a perfect nest on the bright green ivy growing on our front porch post. Two eggs arrived, then six. She carefully cared for the eggs and we were very aware to not go too close to startle her or cause fear to her home. Of course, this was not always guaranteed with our little six year old curious mind! A few weeks had passed and on one of Eliana's daily inspection of the abode, we discovered 4 babies! Then 6! They were all here! </div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Chris would hear the baby birds chirp so loudly when they sensed "Momma" was around! He would call the kids to the office window to have them watch as they were fed and quieted. One morning we found that one little bird had fallen out of the nest and did not make it through the day. My husband was the grand hero and didn't let the kids see this hard life lesson part! I must confess, I did shed a tear or two knowing that the little bird didn't have a chance!</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We've been watching this nest intently. Checking in on how the feathers are forming, the yucky-ness of the nest at this point and watching carefully each day to see when they would fly! Yesterday we checked and only two birds remained! I'm not sure what happened to the others. One thing I did learn with a little research on the link below, is that the "Momma" bird would have removed any dead birds from the nest. Talk about a hard job! <br />
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This afternoon Chris checked and the two birds were on the edge of the nest - ready at any moment to leap! This evening - gone! They had taken that huge step to start their new little life. Taken that step to fly! Taken that risk to leave the nest! Taken the step to trust, live and FLY!</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm proud of these little creatures! I don't know how the rest of their story will play out, but it's been fun watching this side of it with a front row seat! I want to live like them. God, I know you will always push me when I'm hesitant. You'll nudge me out of my comfortable place to keep me fully trusting you. You will prepare me for that moment and surround me when I take that leap to "fly" into what you've called me to do! </div><div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Fly Birdies Fly!</span><br />
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All About Starlings! http://www.sialis.org/starlingbio.htmAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-81864466250122013242011-04-13T09:35:00.000-04:002011-04-13T09:35:25.205-04:00It's NOW time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-2HyV6m27xLW4gm5PgPNc-1CDnjIVZgxZemI7SGL5oqnYuUa6kXqSiJ6I0kcRTiGKHzccYtvfh-yjuvJSKnRrA1xqYKFWge3ku8oj7AiCaNq4VahHOsU1Gnn-wGxWnZCgfbLs5t-06g/s1600/now+time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-2HyV6m27xLW4gm5PgPNc-1CDnjIVZgxZemI7SGL5oqnYuUa6kXqSiJ6I0kcRTiGKHzccYtvfh-yjuvJSKnRrA1xqYKFWge3ku8oj7AiCaNq4VahHOsU1Gnn-wGxWnZCgfbLs5t-06g/s320/now+time.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><br />
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It's back to the Haas routine this week! Our time in Seattle was great as we got to learn from some great ministry leaders! It was also a treat to reconnect with some dear friends that we've had the chance to serve in ministry with. These are dear, long time friends that we've gotten the chance to watch their children grow and develop into God loving, culturally relevant, generational leaders! What a gift to be able to watch their lives be at this place!<br />
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We got to hear from intense children's ministry leaders as well and the resounding theme that God was speaking to us was, "Reach them before they have to be rescued"! There is so much that God wants to invest in this generation of children NOW! NOW-God can and will use them! NOW-God will speak through them! NOW-God's Word can become real, relevant and relational to them! This not only hit me with relationship to ministry with children, but with MY children and all we provide at home!<br />
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As we returned home, it got me thinking more about our kids and reminded me again of the imperative call from God to invest everything God has given us to our children. As a parent, we have the mandate to train them, develop them and equip them for all God has in store. It's not always going to be an easy adventure, but I'm confident God will direct us as parents to know when, what, where and how. The Holy Spirit will be faithful to reveal, show and instruct ME on the behalf of my children. There is truly no greater joy than to watch a child's destiny begin to unfold. It is a true joy to be at this season of my life! I'm seeing glimpses now of promises God had made regarding my children. I'm watching talents, abilities and passions grow! I'm watching them dream! I'm watching God perform miracles in their lives! What an honor to get this front row seat!<br />
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Here's what I'm thinking about ... What environment am I providing for my kids? What other leaders am I purposefully bringing into their lives to learn from? Within the lines of preparing & protecting them, are they culturally relevant and aware of our culture - within the church and outside the church? What is God challenging me with in this season to be more aware of? Asking - Do they honor others? Do they serve with a happy heart? Do they understand God's plan for where they are in their life - NOW? Do I ask the questions - What is God asking you to work on right now? What is God saying to you? How are you doing with ______? (You know what to fill in the blank with! Or you better!) <br />
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I'm challenging myself and you to apply these tidbits to your family and your church like never before! <br />
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Get connected in your home with children! Get connected in YOUR church in serving this generation!<br />
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No more excuses!<br />
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The rewards are phenomenal!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-33944054475070722392011-03-11T08:21:00.000-05:002011-03-11T08:21:43.861-05:00What Ya Reading?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVQ6Es-_j4EXRdnPDXJckMeGUWeyajKLHGN4rfV9HFmkCgzwc1I-z0jG1MLykBz6tMv2b0tMKc8uuZ9TnWzOg2ff0XSbUfeN4y1McqK1tmBBWtloNIIRoLnzBfMMe4QLdYfRQArMhw5c/s1600/books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAVQ6Es-_j4EXRdnPDXJckMeGUWeyajKLHGN4rfV9HFmkCgzwc1I-z0jG1MLykBz6tMv2b0tMKc8uuZ9TnWzOg2ff0XSbUfeN4y1McqK1tmBBWtloNIIRoLnzBfMMe4QLdYfRQArMhw5c/s400/books.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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I was thinking about this throughout the week... as new year has come and gone, I've found myself drenched again in my many home-school curriculum books, childrens resources and a stack of personal reading choices to navigate through. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love to read and I love to listen to teaching series - anything on leadership, discipleship, parenting, education - anything! I am usually guilty of reading about 5-6 books at a time.. But I usually don't recall the "meat" very well unless I focus on one at a time. So I'm setting a goal - this one is right at the top - along with my health and fitness goals - to be a stronger, focused reader!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Usually you will find me navigating through 5th & 6th grade curriculum, learning about the Phoenicians, landforms, our solar system or The Bronze Bow. I do a lot of reading - of course due to lesson planning for Daniel's day, re-reading some of favorite parenting resources - Child Wise and other parenting resources such as Manners Matter by Hermine Hartley. All of these are necessary resources as I navigate through my six year and my ten year old's journey. As a leader, I need to be more intentional to embark into the quiet, focused time to enjoy and learn from a good read. <br />
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The titles that are currently resting beside my bed, in my car and on my desk include;<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Every Church Has A Culture, By Design or By Default - By Kevin Gerald </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;">Emotionally Healthy Church - By Peter Scazzero</div><div style="text-align: center;">Plan B - By Pete Wilson </div><div style="text-align: center;">Ancient Paths - By Craig Hill</div><div style="text-align: center;">Generation iY - By Tim Elmore</div><br />
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My goal - put two down (for now), pick up and finish 1. Then, repeat!<br />
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Pick up a copy and let's finish a few together! First on the list - Ancient Paths by Craig Hill. <br />
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Off to grab a warm, comfy spot to read! You gonna join in with me?<br />
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Next on the list - Plan B! Get a copy and message me if you want to read along together!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-20361760300072313262011-03-02T18:25:00.001-05:002013-10-01T20:30:11.791-04:00Deal With It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody">Time to share something fairly personal from this life. This isn't an area that I'm usually very vulnerable with, but I know that the only way God can bring a complete healing to any area is when we admit and cry out. That's true, but I'm not sure God would have been a proud Papa watching me thrown down my temper tantrum this week! Taking the time to deal with stuff can be freeing and painful all in the same breath. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody">I've realized over the last few weeks, that I have had a hard time dealing with some disappointments. Simple ones and deeper rooted rascals. Simple ones like running out of a pantry item to complete that perfect meal I was making for my family - only to have a half baked right recipe, not finding my favorite coconut milk in stock at the Harris Teeter and showing up to my daughters last cheering game of the season to find that it was scheduled an hour PRIOR to our arrival. Yep... simple disappointments that shouldn't have rocked me with such intensity.</span></span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody">The second level experiences of disappointments for me have been deeply rooted for some time, (God is bringing this stuff all to the surface to finally make me DEAL WITH IT!) Some have been disappointments from childhood that I was too timid to address within myself. Some recent "hot topics" for me have been "fear of disappointing others", "not being good enough", "never measuring up". Many were internal judgments hat had been attempting to jeopardize what God had created me to be. I had even allowed my disappointments to take on the option of replacing authentic love, vulnerability and grace. I'm thankful God has brought me to this place, this season - to deal with the the stuff. Like a 3 year old having a time out - I'm here taking a moment to evaluate my behavior! </span></span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This week, I've been hit in the face with some health challenges. You can't run from facing disappointments. It's part of what we walk through in every area of our lives. Part of my healing process is understanding why I expect what I expect from myself. This week I've been faced with taking on, hitting full force - my stuff. I've been dually disappointed this week because this crazy health issue had show it's ugly head again - especially after I've done all that I've needed to do to avoid having this stuff show up again. I was also equally frustrated that I didn't get to make a trip I wanted to take. I may not have been in the Emergency Room screaming like the 3 year old in the next room at 3am, but internally I was! I was indeed! I was mad! I don't like being out of the game. I like being a part of life - every area! I love living! I don't like missing anything! I love the people I get to do life with. I love the God who has given so much for me! </span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This week I need to let things be a little different around here. I'm parked at home resting to fully recover. God has surrounded our family with some incredible friends and family. Those people have lavished us with incredible prayers, meals, calls and love. They have been bringing the fun to me and loving me big through this challenging week. <span style="font-size: small;">God has been preparing this season for me to enjoy His grace on my life like never before. </span>For that... I'm not disappointed. I'm honored. I'm loved. I'm thankful.</span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;">In addition to me overcoming my thirty-something temper tantrum, here's what else I've held on to this week; </span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1. God did not design us to walk alone. The most important thing I've done to start walking in freedom in many areas of my life, was the thing I've been most terrified to do - to tell others about my struggle. I'm learning that we find our way to freedom when we start being honest with others.</span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;">2. We must allow God to use our external struggles to show us the wounded places in our lives. My disappointment issues were only an external symptom to things going on deeper in me that I need to work on. </span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;">3. God can redeem our stuff. Simple as that. He can use this part of my story to encourage, bring honor to Him and bring blessings to our live.</span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody">You can only hold on to one thing at a time - the promise of God or disappointment. - Bill Johnson</span></span></h6>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">"Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart." - Winnie the Pooh</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-50502734485585668622011-02-02T00:54:00.001-05:002011-02-02T01:34:01.540-05:00Our "Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader?" Journey - 2010-2011<div style="text-align: left;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlRSHoFz6-GL20iXlTEW2c2BjhkVjPyBb2gJGZP53FaOLtRegmfv1EVUakeLZ2g3WEjvtPBogXkYfjKWPsVcsTTtYVKVADptOoO6WnfSjFyW-KP1d0EhHKCgua5_UGJdLNMjhAFxDjh4/s1600/park+fun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlRSHoFz6-GL20iXlTEW2c2BjhkVjPyBb2gJGZP53FaOLtRegmfv1EVUakeLZ2g3WEjvtPBogXkYfjKWPsVcsTTtYVKVADptOoO6WnfSjFyW-KP1d0EhHKCgua5_UGJdLNMjhAFxDjh4/s320/park+fun.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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Over the last two years, we have embarked on this journey of homeschooling Daniel. Many have asked throughout this journey how we do what we do, why we do what we do and what do we use for curriculum in what we do. So this day is dedicated to share how and what we are learning on this year's adventures!<br />
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I can't believe that this year he is finishing up the elementary "school" year of 5th grade! For our style of learning, we have embarked with a more "eclectic" mix of goodies that are a match for Daniel's grade level testing and our preference of materials - and resources that allow for a flexible learning environment. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBe6Sv2gJwB9j8cGVWIC0CVbi4ZkZedC9r47OfwUmW8TLWp-J1IG4PpTFqg7morMVOmxL7zOdsQE-pJuJT0CLDhpFzDfIaP9msKdLOdbWuaqsLHgLWZJnZu0CwNn1c7alFcFYJwgSjruU/s1600/dolphin+feeding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBe6Sv2gJwB9j8cGVWIC0CVbi4ZkZedC9r47OfwUmW8TLWp-J1IG4PpTFqg7morMVOmxL7zOdsQE-pJuJT0CLDhpFzDfIaP9msKdLOdbWuaqsLHgLWZJnZu0CwNn1c7alFcFYJwgSjruU/s320/dolphin+feeding.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea World - Dolphin Feeding - September 2010</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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I truly am cherishing this time I have in being an active part of Daniel & Eliana's education. We take school one year at a time, one child at a time, one season at a time. As a result of that process, we have one child in a traditional public school and one as a home-school student. I firmly believe that each child is different and may require different learning environments. I have loved seeing Eliana's personality, passion and excitement for learning with her teacher. I know she is thriving where she is and she LOVES school! I love being in partnership with her teacher and volunteering with any opportunity that is available!<br />
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There are times I still can't believe I'm on this journey with Daniel. I fought against taking the leap to home-schooling for a long while. I was scared silly that I was going to "mess up" my child! But it's been quiet different than all those fears I had conjured up. I am truly thankful I get to do this! I don't remember school being this fun! Some of our favorite things to do are to take adventures out to see where history has taken place, watching science & technology operate together at the Metrolina Greenhouses, picking the freshest apples & strawberries possible and learning about the agricultural & financial impacts that these delicious goodies bring to our region and packing our books for the day and heading out to our favorite park to get sunshine and soil samples for science. We love it all! <br />
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When I asked Daniel today what he STILL liked about homeschooling, his reply was "Getting to spend time with my family. I know many kids don't get to have the time I have with my parents and sister. Plus Mom - I've got the best guitar teacher and I get to do geography & science with Lego's. Come on Mom... this is the life for a kid like me!" .... OK.... He made me tear up! Now for the hard question of what do you NOT like about school this year? His reply, "I have a desk. Now I think I want a locker". OK - I can work on that too! We will begin to seek out what next year may look like, who knows where this journey will be headed. It's going to be fun to watch it all take place!<br />
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Over the last year I've watched Daniel begin to grow into a young man. Before my very eyes, he is now a "Man Child". I'm getting the chance to watch him learn about transitional phrases, adverbs and Venn Diagrams; we get to read about the classic literature hero's and learn how to serve God's church. We laugh at gross jokes, I referee the typical arguments with his sister and I've watched him reach out to make new friends and begin to walk through some of life's tough questions. I've also watched him grow 5" over this last year and have seen an appetite establish in him like never before. I know I can't get this time back so I'm savoring every day and every math problem that may come my way. (By the way - I've had nightmares about his math curriculum!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1QT3uJsgJkJ7FH-7bpw-H9hKTVpwn5NcjFfQ-ry9OHNIG9911CIsK0Bj-B9GJF5gXzvba1jXQP0BvbQSv0vYGSuDNRKL-MGRIUGub7Nan-6CP9WBXdzwpqQhKlO_ivR2lthkrQ2v0RdA/s1600/mayan+ruins+legos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1QT3uJsgJkJ7FH-7bpw-H9hKTVpwn5NcjFfQ-ry9OHNIG9911CIsK0Bj-B9GJF5gXzvba1jXQP0BvbQSv0vYGSuDNRKL-MGRIUGub7Nan-6CP9WBXdzwpqQhKlO_ivR2lthkrQ2v0RdA/s320/mayan+ruins+legos.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lego Geography November 2010 - Belize - Learning about & recreating the Mayan Ruins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>This year we have taken advantage of all flexible options available! From adjusting our "school" schedule with Dad & Mom's schedule with work, the flexibility offered to allow for family time is treasured! Here are some of our favorite resources on this year's learning journey!<br />
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<u>Hope Christian Academy 2010-2011 Curriculum </u><br />
Apologia Science - Astronomy - Fall Semester <br />
Apologia Science - Anatomy & Physiology - Spring Semester <br />
Learning Language Arts Through Literature - Tan Level<br />
A Reason For Spelling - Level F <br />
Old World History & Geography - Abeka<br />
Enjoying Good Health - 5th Grade - Abeka <br />
SOS Math - Alpha & Omega<br />
Lego Education - Lego Geography & Lego Robotics - Concord Mills Lego Store<br />
Praying With The Presidents - Charisma Kids - By Ron Dicianni <br />
<u>Art & Music Education</u>: Guitar Lessons - Biweekly, Weekly art/composer/music review. <br />
<u>Physical Education: </u> Basketball, Soccer & Tae Kwon Do - Local YMCA<br />
<u>Current Events Awareness & Additional Creative Learning Resources</u> - Kidsville Newspaper, Harrisburg Horizons, Charlotte Observer, History Channel Website & Channel, www.Time4learning.com, www.everythinghomeschooling.com, www.homeschoolsreview.com, CCHNet - Yahoo Group, Homespun Charlotte - Yahoo Group, www.lessonplanet.com, Testing Services - Barnhill Testing - Woodcock Johnson, HSLDA - Homeschool Legal Defense Association, NCHE - North Carolinian's for Home Education.<br />
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<u>Classic Literature for 2010-2011:</u> Homer Price, Carry On Mr. Bowditch, The Bronze Bow, The Voyage of The Dawn Treader, Big Red, The Horse & His Boy <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwjjQYsWSznHsvNMS4vd-9C0NNbhw20WcCxivw1iqrY3T62kC00RTj6YQowzY4enrBosCa82hyACrdh6YAbAXo_U4kUAu9H12dpuRs1J8ldRlWhEjeT9ZxQJReENMaAPdjfl2ql2e-HU0/s1600/Daniel+Learning+Energy+Center.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwjjQYsWSznHsvNMS4vd-9C0NNbhw20WcCxivw1iqrY3T62kC00RTj6YQowzY4enrBosCa82hyACrdh6YAbAXo_U4kUAu9H12dpuRs1J8ldRlWhEjeT9ZxQJReENMaAPdjfl2ql2e-HU0/s320/Daniel+Learning+Energy+Center.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duke Energy Explorium - Nuclear Energy Week 2011</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-66708274957580182072011-01-07T22:39:00.000-05:002011-01-07T22:39:32.365-05:00Blogging Apologies - No More Excuses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-tQmEc-eW79p6XoYl6FaTk8WH4T72jVWV4z_G1jyFPR4U28A2cd6QQU5-HjEl5mPd7cilTJGpE5bFtmfthxKawQ9QsLDGBfFEMVJH4HAtBz9MyB8Xd9U3bs4A_ZPLzu3fgNSZzBVxKo/s1600/no+excuses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-tQmEc-eW79p6XoYl6FaTk8WH4T72jVWV4z_G1jyFPR4U28A2cd6QQU5-HjEl5mPd7cilTJGpE5bFtmfthxKawQ9QsLDGBfFEMVJH4HAtBz9MyB8Xd9U3bs4A_ZPLzu3fgNSZzBVxKo/s1600/no+excuses.jpg" /></a></div><br />
It's been a long time since I've MADE the time to share what's been happening from this view! It's been an "active" season for sure, but that's no excuse! I really will do better at sharing!<br />
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<div style="color: #cc0000;"><b>So here are my Top 10 reasons (excuses) why I haven't made the time to keep up...</b></div><br />
10. I felt it lame to think that someone would read about life from my view. Really? Seriously? <br />
9. I put a reminder to update on my "to do" list, then forgot where I put it. (Anyone who knows me knows I need my list, and you also know I can loose my list if not in my LARGE binder or on my "to do" task list via smart phone app.<br />
8. My little princess started Kindergarten and I couldn't see the password I had written down to sign in, all due to the tear stains from the disbelief that she is now in school!<br />
7. We helped lead the very first Run For Mercy 5KCharlotte in September and got overwhelmingly loved by some great volunteers who made the day a great success! They raised over $26,000 with over 300 participants! More info - check out www.mercyministries.org! I was completely in awe of how incredible this team worked to help Mercy! WOW!<br />
6. This year we began being a part of a dynamite church staff family! We get to be a part of some incredible things that God is doing in this city! We love seeing God tell His love story! This time - we were in complete awe and wonder that God would ask us to be a part of His plans for children at Freedom House Church! God truly took my breath away! Seriously - I'm still in shock that He wants to use ME! I was at a loss for words! Written or Spoken - Truly! <br />
5. We began homeschooling Daniel for 5th grade and in the middle of Lego Geography I fell into an alternate Lego universe, surrounded by billions of Lego Star Wars ships, droids and clones - and just now found my way out. <br />
4. Chloe (our dog) and I have been on a shopping spree looking for her a new winter coat! Of course she had to have pink and it had to be just her size, with lots of sparkles. We succeeded!<br />
3. Eliana held me hostage to do mani's & pedi's and we just got all of the nail polish secured again - only 23 different colors to choose from!<br />
2. Chris was trying to show me how to do Excel spreadsheets with all kinds of formulas - he's wanting to bring me up to par with his expertise mind!<br />
1. I was held up with a marshmellow gun.<br />
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2010 went by way too fast! I'm gonna do better at sharing this part of our "Life With A View"! In the words of our Eliana tonight - "I'm ready to share my life with others". Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3031257312922661622.post-83969809409254289322010-07-07T21:10:00.004-04:002010-07-07T21:21:07.388-04:00Life In The Boot!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikE4T0CDnvBl3dM1Tf_GJ1CloodouV1Iniiu5HrwC34K057MO6jNHqQEMnBUM7Hpqtuq6LVkAJDEK-tHTLgt-QRti4KQOuOjZyXGmDqRFedh2SKcAlkeX2U3fD5fsjjzP7Y3kesvOOl4g/s1600/beast+boot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikE4T0CDnvBl3dM1Tf_GJ1CloodouV1Iniiu5HrwC34K057MO6jNHqQEMnBUM7Hpqtuq6LVkAJDEK-tHTLgt-QRti4KQOuOjZyXGmDqRFedh2SKcAlkeX2U3fD5fsjjzP7Y3kesvOOl4g/s320/beast+boot.jpg" /></a></div><br />
On Friday it will two weeks since I fell and fractured my foot. I have to tell ya, I don't like this. I don't like not being able to go, go go. I like to drive myself to any destination of choice, walk without assistance of crutches or the cush black boot. I like to dance and hop with the kiddos at Freedom House Church. I like to play with my kiddos and not trip over this monster of a rehab shoe. I like to take an occasional run or walk to get the cardio thing going. Bottom line, I don't like being weighted down. I don't like being confined, but oh more than that... How humble this beast of a boot can make a lady! After-all, it doesn't compliment anything in my summer wardrobe!<br />
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If you've ever been in this Big Beastie Boot, you know my pain, inconvenience and great frustration. It's now a heavy weight on the knee and on my foot. It's not bling'ed out like I want it to be. (Someone please bring on the Bedazzler!) Oh enough about the bad! I'll stop the chatter about that! I am being reminded of some pretty good stuff. <br />
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God is revealing so much to my heart during this time of being confined. It's in these quiet moments of "SITTING" that I am overwhelmed with new revelation of His love for me! It is extravagant and lavish! He holds nothing back from me - His girl!<br />
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The top things I'm learning with the Big Beastie Boot.... <br />
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1. I'm reminded that it's OK for me to ask for help.<br />
2. It's OK for me to let others bless me.<br />
3. It's OK for me not to HAVE TO do it all. <br />
4. It's OK for me to move at a slower pace. <br />
5. I'm reminded that this BOOT is being used to help attain a full, whole healing. Sometimes we need to be slowed down, to get the best result. (Just so you know, if I tried to wear a regular shoe right, I would scream like a sissy girl and it would injure me only more intensely! There is so many lessons to be learned here!) Wear the shoe or boot Jesus has provided! He's working it out for you!<br />
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My husband has been amazing - His patience, love and passion for his family - is off the charts! He is a hero to my heart! My friends have been a gift and place of humor - from meals, Designated Drive Rides and calls to get me laughing - I'm so thankful! <br />
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Big Beautiful Beastie Boot - I'm thankful for Jesus working through you today!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009303622137487760noreply@blogger.com0