Christmas House

Tim did such a great job with our outdoor Christmas lights!

Christmas Morning!

Well, I just noticed, I did not take too many pictures from Christmas morning. Anyway, every Christmas morning, the kids send Happy Birthday balloons (helium) up to Jesus. This is something we've been doing since Erika and Josh were little. Our Christmas this year was very quiet... besides the 5 minute excitement outburst Josh had because he received a special gift. All of this was caught on tape! Christmas Eve we spent it with Aunt Joan & Uncle Bill, went to look at Christmas lights and read the Christmas story while sipping on hot apple cider. I feel very privileged that we have an opportunity to worship our Savior as some countries are being persecuted every day for their faith.

Disney Hotels

Sunday night a group of us went to a couple Disney hotels to spend some time together and enjoy the beautiful Christmas festivities that Disney offers each year. The kids had a great time hanging out with some friends and they loved riding the monorail and the boat. No one got lost...just a couple minor injuries from a fall or two! And, it wasn't the boys this time!

Ice at the Gaylord Palms

This is the first time we've been to ICE. The ice sculptures were incredible! The kids loved the ice slide. Oh... and Tim too! We had a great time as a family and glad we went. However, we probably wouldn't do this every year though.

Sphere Christmas Party

Just a couple pictures from our sphere Christmas party. It was held at the Rejonis home this year. It was amazing. These pictures do not do it justice. I have more pictures but didn't want to post them until I had permission from everyone who would be in the photos. Anyway, what a wonderful time we had. Thanks to our hosts, the Rejonis', Twinings and Chews who blessed us beyond words!

Walk Through Bethlehem

Our family has been attending Walk Through Bethlehem for the past 11 years! Erika was 3 when we first started going. Each year, Longwood Baptist Church puts on this program. As you tour through the city of Bethlehem you will experience perhaps what it may have been like nearly 2000 years ago when Jesus was born. We have enjoyed going over the years. In fact, most years we go 2 nights and invite friends to join with us. And, even though Erika can recite the whole tour, she still enjoys going! Perhaps, I will find a couple pictures to post of first time we took her over 11 years ago.

Christmas Cookie Exchange

A holiday tradition for me every year is to organize a cookie exchange. I've been doing this for several years now and it is so nice to include Erika in on the festivities. I usually do this event early in December so you can freeze the cookies. What I enjoy most about our time together is each person shares about a favorite Christmas tradition or something that has impacted them that particular year.

Christmas Picture... Take 30

Wow! 30 pictures later and I think we may have a Christmas photo. By that time, Josh is looking into space, leaning on his sister, looking for a stick or something within reach to play with. I thought that when the kids were older that taking a Christmas picture would be a snap. Well, I was so wrong. How do parents with multiple little ones get good pictures? Do they settle for whatever they can get? I suppose whatever your child is doing in the photo truly captures who they are. Isn't that what photography is all about? Okay, next Christmas I'm going to send a picture of my kids just being themselves! It should be interesting...

Thanksgiving Day

We celebrated Thanksgiving this year with our co-op family. It was so much fun. Some of the kids dressed up and we played some authentic games as the pilgrims and indians did back in 1621. The adults made some traditional food as well as some authentic food such as cornbread, cheese pie and venison. This was a Thanksgiving we will remember forever!

The Powhatan Indians!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Is That You Superman?

Let's just say, this picture can and will be used for the future! Okay, Josh decided to try on a size 3T superman pajamas that we had. As you can see, the pajamas are a tad bit small. Oh, and the bottoms are inside out. Well, the top is another story... but as you can see it is also a wee bit small in addition to being a little immodest. Josh keeps our family going by making us laugh!

Motorcycle for Sale!!

Well, it is time to sell Josh' motorcycle. It is way too small for him. I'm kind of glad though because it made me a little nervous. That is probably the mom in me. Anyway, I've listed it on craigslist with only one call. I don't think people are buying pricey things these days. And, this is a pretty pricey item for a young child. I will probably advertise it in the motorcycle trader here soon. If you know of anyone who is interested in buying this lovely motorcycle (Yamaha PW 50) send them my way!

Erika & Emma

It was so much fun having Emma over for the night a couple weeks ago while their parents went to a football game. Erika and Josh really enjoyed playing with Emma. Emma can now say "Erika" and "Josh" and the pronunciation is pretty clear. I think this book is about farm animals and Emma sure knows her animal sounds. Okay, Erika and Josh would love to have a baby around the house. I wonder what Erika and Josh' parents have to say about that?

Brother & Sister

This picture actually freaked me out a little bit. I have never thought that Erika and Josh looked alike. Erika favors Tim's side of the family with the light complexion, freckles and light eye color. And, Josh favors my side of the family with the olive color complexion and green eyes. We haven't been in the sun since school started so Josh' usual surfer tan has diminished quit a bit. So, when Erika took this picture, I was amazed at actually how much they really do look alike! It was scary! What do you think? Do they look like brother and sister?

Rear Ended!

On my way to drop Erika off at the church building on Monday, I was rear-ended. It really caught us all by surprise. Erika was in the front passenger seat and Josh was in the middle seat. Fortunately, no one was in the back seat. I usually have a least a couple extra kids with me but that day I did not. We jolted forward and glass from the rear window came flying. I have a sore and stiff neck but the kids are fine praise God! This is the second time this has happened to me in the last year and a half. Anyway, I'm not complaining just very thankful that it wasn't worse.

Our Personal Retreat!

Erika and I went away for the weekend on a mother-daughter retreat. We feel extremely blessed to have spent this time together. Our first night we went shopping and I bought a couple of dolls that Erika has collected over the years. And, of course clothes shopping! The next day we slept in and then spent some time going over the book Shopping for Time. I'm amazed at how God continues to grow our relationship as mother-daughter. I love the fact that Erika and I can talk about anything! Thanks to my wonderful husband who released me to go so I could spend some alone time with Erika.

If you have never gone on a personal retreat, I would highly recommend going!

Send the Birds!

Well, our bird feeder has been up waiting for birds to come for about 4 weeks now. Josh has been patiently awaiting the arrival of at least one bird! I've read it takes about 6 weeks for birds to go to a new feeder. I hope what I've read is correct. We live in a subdivision and a lot of the trees have been removed. However, around the perimeter of the subdivision is lots of woods which gives me hope that birds will come. So, join me in praying that God would send the birds so Josh can enjoy this little science project/experiment!

Appreciation Luncheon

A couple weeks ago Metro Youth hosted a 55 and up appreciation luncheon in the chapel. This was the second one that Metro Youth hosted and what a success it was. Approximately 42 guest attended, 20 youth and lots of parent participation. The youth were so excited to serve these folks in our church and be able to express their appreciation for their commitment to the local church. And though Erika is out of Metro Youth, it was an opportunity for Erika and I to serve these people who we dearly love. The youth spent time with the guests and served their lunch, drinks and dessert. I was amazed at how the youth were interacting. Jesse Phillips was there and MC the event. He did an outstanding job and appreciate his dedication to the youth of the church. We also put together a couple games: Name that Tune and Name that Celebrity. It was so much fun and the guest did a great job recalling those tunes and celebrities of the 40's, 50's and 60's! There were also a few give-aways. In addition, Erika was able to honor Judy Jones and Zachary honored Jay Schmatjen. They were both so surprised! I'm thrilled Erika and I were able to be a part of this wonderful day. These people have invested so much into Metro Life Church. Their commitment to God and the local church is a direct reflection of their Love for the Savior. They are extremely appreciated! A big thanks to the youth and parents!

Past, Present & Future

It is really hard to believe that 3 months ago, Tim and Erika were heading to Bolivia on a mission trip! Lately, I've been recalling that time when the excitement, joy and faithfulness of God was ever so present. God accomplished so much during that 12 day stay in Bolivia. He worked out every detail according to His plan.

With that said, I'm provoked and encouraged to currently see that God is ever present today. He is actively at work and just as present today as He was 3 months ago. Today, God is accomplishing so much right here in our home. He is currently working out every detail according to His plan.

And more importantly, God will be actively working in the future. God holds the future and will work everything out according to His divine plan. His purpose will be accomplished.

I'm grateful that Tim and Erika was able to go to Bolivia on a mission trip. And, I'm equally grateful that God has called them to a mission right here!

Grateful for the past, present and future.

1st TOG Co-Op of the Year

Our first Tapestry of Grace co-op was held a couple weeks ago. This year, we are studying American History. And, this week, a few people from the group will be going to Williamsburg for a week long field trip. Our family won't be able to go this time. Anyway, we are looking forward to a good year!

What do you remember studying in school about American History? And, what do you hope or desire for your children to learn about American History?

Celebration South

Monday ended a wonderful weekend in Hudson, Florida. The worship, fellowship and biblical teaching was amazing. I walked away challenged and encouraged to continue my pursuit for God's will in my life. Enjoy the pictures!

While Tim is Away

I'm truly experiencing God's grace this week as Tim has been out of town since last Friday evening. We've been busy with school and getting ready for Celebration South. Josh has not used the drill this week which is a good thing! And, I'm happy to say that he has not super glued his fingers together this week either.

I have to say though, I truly miss Tim. Fortunately, we will see him at Celebration and then he will be back home next Saturday evening. So, when all said and done, he will be away for 11 days. God in His mercy has given me the grace to embrace the time that Tim is away. Since we've been married, Tim has always traveled. So, this is not necessarily new for me.

A quick funny story.. Years ago, when Tim would be out of town, I would begin a home project! Well, let's just say most of the time when he would return, the project would not be complete! Tim never knew what he was coming home to! I don't do that anymore!

I would love to hear your response to some questions I have.

* Does your husband travel or has traveled in the past? How often and for how long? What do you do to occupy your time while he is away? And, is it challenging for you? Do you regularly experience God's grace while he is away?

*If your not married, I would love to hear your thoughts too.

Josh' Hair

Josh' wild hair in the pool! What do you think of Josh' hair these days? A picture down the side of the blog shows Josh' hair on a typical day. I would love to hear opinions... Do you like longer hair on boys? How long is too long? What about short hair? Why do we choose different styles, lengths and colors over another? Is it just preference or do other factors come into play?

Mom, I know what you think already...but, isn't Josh so handsome?

School Begins!

Homeschooling began this Monday. It is hard to believe Erika is a freshman and Josh is in 3rd grade. I highly respect moms who are teaching more that two children! You have my utmost respect! Josh is holding two gliders which we made. All the variables are the same except one glider has long-narrow wings and the other glider has short-wide wings. Which one do you think will go further?

Homeschooling Begins!

Our official school date begins Monday, August 20th! It has been a great summer but I'm ready to have some sort of routine.

Every year before the school season begins, we pray and ask God for direction as it relates to each child. This year, Erika will be taking tutoring classes at Smith Prep (history, english, bible, debate, science). And, she will be taking two classes online from Florida Virtual School (spanish 1 & algebra 1). Josh will be home with me full time.

In addition, every year we come up with spiritual/character attributes and academic goals for Erika and Josh to work on throughout the year. We try to keep our academic goals to minimum therefore concentrating on the spiritual/character attributes. This has served us so well since we've been homeschooling. By setting small goals for our children we have been able to encourage them, lovingly train and disciple them, and rejoice with them on their accomplishments. It has also helped me to not get discouraged about feeling overwhelmed or exasperating the kids. I have seen firsthand God work in each child throughout the school year!

Also, with my husband's input, I come up with some goals for myself.
1. to have fun
2. enjoy my children
3. have a routine that allows for flexibility for the unexpected
4. keep up with daily devotions
5. do not overbook my schedule with many activities
6. be home more
7. to daily seek God for direction and wisdom and allow His grace to permeate throughout the home

Here is an example of what our goals looked like last year.

Erika's spiritual/character attribute
1. to embrace being at home (Titus 2)
2. to glorify God with her music

Erika's academic goal
1. to challenge herself in critical thinking matters
2. to get her papers done in a timely manner

Josh' spiritual/character attribute
1. to not give up (Philippians 14:13)
2. to work on conflict resolution with his sister
3. to desire to know God more

Josh' academic goal
1. to love the library and picking out books
2. to enjoy reading
3. to have fun

This is not to draw attention to my children or myself. Hopefully, this will serve whoever may read this as a source of encouragement as you begin the school year.

Worship Conference

Well, today ended the 3 day worship conference held at our church building. Erika was able to go the entire time and take part in various breakout sessions on how to glorify God with worship. I'm looking forward to hearing more about it from her and getting the CD's so I can benefit from all the teaching.
Please pray for God's direction as we seek to raise our kids in glorifying God with our worship. And that any talent or gift given is suppose to be used to further His kingdom and not our own.

Entre Rios Team Reunion!

The reunion took place this past Saturday at MLC in the chapel. It was a great time to reflect on what God accomplished in Bolivia and to reunite with our brothers & sisters in Christ. We were able to partake in some Bolivian food, worship and fellowship. God has been so good!

What do you say.. should we have another reunion in six months?

Homegroup Pool Party

The month of July we had a homegroup pool party. It was a great time of fellowship though we were rained out. We ended the night with a game of Catch Phrase. Now, that was fun... just ask those who participated!

Pray Without Ceasing - Conclusion

As some of you may know, Josh went in about 2 weeks ago for a 24 hour EEG study. This test was recommended by Josh' neurologist in order to get an accurate and longer reading.

Shortly after Josh was dismissed the doctor called me with the results. By God's grace, his EEG has slightly improved! After four years of having reports that were not so good, this is great news to us.

Will you join with our family in praying for Josh without ceasing? If you have a word of encouragement for Josh or something that God has laid on your heart, we would love to hear from you.

We will continue to rejoice!

Pray Without Ceasing - Part 3

Our family believes that all things work for our good. Yes, that would include the trials and tribulations that we are faced with at times. That doesn't mean that we enjoy those times but it does mean that we are called to embrace them. To just get through a difficult time would be that God is robbed of glory.

And though the last four years have been challenging, our family has grown mainly in the area of praying without ceasing. Josh' medical condition has brought us closer together and our faith has increased. We are dependant upon God.

Josh is an amazing young boy. He has an incredible amount of faith and is dependant upon God. There have been many days when we just didn't know what to do. And, Josh would say "let's just pray". I'm encouraged and provoked by Josh' faith.

Please check back as I conclude with some encouraging news.

Pray Without Ceasing - Part 2

Josh was diagnosed with epilepsy about 4 years ago.

Previous to his diagnosis we noticed several things that caused us to wonder. He began to drool occasionally out of the corner of his mouth. And, his hand would go numb from time to time. These two symptoms always appeared separately.

In God's kindness and His sovereign timing, an episode occurred where many symptoms appeared together. This episode lead to an emergency room visit, which lead to a hospital stay and testing. The neurologist concluded it was epilepsy and immediately put him on medication.

Immediately, our family began praying for Josh without ceasing.

Since then, Josh has battled seizures on a regular basis. He has endured many doctor visits, testing, and several changes in medication to try and control his seizures. The medication makes Josh sleep and he usually takes a nap during the day. There were times where Josh would wake up with night tremors (typical for an epileptic).

By the grace of God, Josh has experienced some good days along the way.

Please check back as I continue to communicate our life long journey of praying without ceasing for Josh. In addition, I hope to explain how such a trial has brought our family closer and how Josh has embraced this time.

Pray Without Ceasing - Part 1

I hope to be able to communicate how we have been praying for Josh for the last four years. This picture was taken last Tuesday when he went in for a 24 hour EEG to monitor his seizures. Just look at this picture... Josh is a happy young boy who loves God.

At first, I was hesitant to put this picture on this blog. However, my heart would be to communicate the work that God is doing. And, I believe this picture is just one way I can effectively do that.

Please check back as I try to communicate how our family has prayed without ceasing for Josh. But more importantly, I want to articulate God's continued faithfulness in our lives.

Beach Day!

We had a great day at the beach with some friends! I hope to get a couple more days in before school starts!

Mission Trip - Niceville & Abroad

The last two mission trips are preparing to leave! Please pray for the team leaders, the people who they will be leading and the people who they will be serving.

Brandi, will be posting for the Niceville mission trip at www.mission-x-niceville.blogspot.com

Jennifer, hopefully will be updating us on her blog at http://www.bndrylnsndplsntplcs.blogspot.com/2007/06/countdown26-days.html. In addition, in one of her post there are several prayer request.

Lets us all join in by praying for these last two teams!

Mission Trip - Wales

Please continue to pray as there is about 20 people right now in Wales on a mission trip. From what I heard only about 5% of the people who live in Wales would consider themselves a christian! The other 95 % need to hear the gospel.

Here is a link to Stephanie's blog who is keeping us updated on the trip. http://www.szthdyfrhsglry.blogspot.com/

Bolivia Testimony- Tim

Though happy to be home, the Bolivian people made a lasting impression upon Tim. Hopefully, I will be able to convey his message.

Tim's appreciation for the Bolivian people was magnified during his 12 day stay in Entre Rios. He was humbled in many ways that only God knows how it will affect him in years to come.

Tim was inspired at the Bolivians work ethic. He had the privilege of working with a few Bolivians on a project. "It is not uncommon for the men to put in a hard days work and then go and serve somewhere else." In addition, Tim says "the Bolivians work happily, not grumbling and complaining.. they just do it." They work unto the Lord!

Tim was humbled by the fact that the Bolivians have little to work with. "They utilize what little supplies they have." There is not a Home Depot on every corner. So, when you need something you either make due without or you think creatively. They needed lumber one day so they chopped down a tree and made lumber!

Once again, this testimony has provoked me to consider how I live from day to day. Am I working with all my heart and doing it unto the Lord? And, do I really appreciate all that I have? Or is grumbling and complaining part of my day?

What does this all look like for us? Consider it for a moment..

Bolivia Testimony - Erika

Well, the last couple days have been spent catching up with Tim and Erika. They had an amazing time in Bolivia. God in His goodness bless them immensely. They have such a heart for the Bolivians. It was a trip they will never forget. In the next couple paragraphs, I will try to convey Erika's message.

Erika expressed to me that the Bolivians simple way of life really inspired her. "There is little temptation to worldliness." Their means of living is very modest and frugal. "They appreciate what they do have and are very happy people." For almost two weeks, Erika was able to live like a Bolivian. She was humbled by their generosity and freshly aware of how privilege she really is! And, how easily she can take advantage of that.

Also, Erika was amazed at how the Bolivian people serve unconditionally. True servanthood is when you serve without being asked, doing it without any expectations and serving when it is least convenient. This is something the Bolivians do each and every day. Erika went to serve and she was the direct beneficiary of being served!

This testimony from Erika has provoked me to consider how I actually live from day to day. Am I being a true servant of Christ? Am I drawn to wordliness and the luxuries of life?

What does this all look like for us?

Check back as I will convey Tim's message tomorrow.

Why I Love Jesus Christ

My friend, Jaime at http://www.herronclan.blogspot.com/ has tagged me. I have to come up with five reasons why I love Christ. Then, I have to tag five other bloggers.

Five reasons I love Christ:

1. I love Christ because He sacrificed in saving me from the penalty of my sin. Indeed, Christ died in my place! I nailed Him there! Romans 5:8 says "but God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

2. I love Christ because I have been chosen! I'm part of His elect. Out of millions lost, Christ chose me. Why me? This reminds me of words to a song "out of millions lost, thank you Lord for saving me."

3. I love Christ because I have been given eternal life. The greatest gift ever! Because of His infinite love for me! Romans 2:23 says "for the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ our Lord." It doesn't get any better than that!

4. I love Christ because I've been forgiven. Daily I sin, yet Christ has forgiven me. Isaiah 43:25 says "I,even I, am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake and I will not remember your sins." What a tremendous thing!

5. I love Christ because He has given me an amazing husband who I've shared the last 2o years with! He is always thinking the best of me. I always feel loved and cared for.


Here are the people I tagged.

1. Virginia www.homeschoolblogger.com/virginiaknowles
2. Debi http://www.walterhome.blogspot.com/
3. Kelly http://www.goodnplentydays.blogspot.com/
4. David http://www.dade4christ.blogspot.com/
5. Tracy http://www.lytle-family.blogspot.com/

Bolivia Pictures!

Bolivia Pictures