tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67376936709320096922024-03-14T07:06:55.220-05:00Kat n' KompanyA mish-mash of nothing much!Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.comBlogger138125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-87174990895748441362012-02-02T21:40:00.000-06:002012-02-02T21:40:47.472-06:00We Ran Away from HomeAll of us. For just about a whole month.<br />
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No school. No housework. Just beach time, pool time, play time.<br />
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For a whole month.<br />
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It was lovely. <br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We are back home now....but when I close my eyes I can still hear the tides upon the shore....and feel the sand between my toes. When things around here are a bit overwhelming, the Lord brings me back to our place in the sun. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-16331539496827543532011-11-05T16:24:00.000-05:002011-11-05T16:24:32.576-05:00Household Cents Giveaways!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTbBePCD_mdz7Cp-u8dArZmGr3RRJnI6onIg0LMdVJP5g_9Te9r-3JlOTeyDXRZjqR03ruUQYyoYXopOWPXbic81L-uy-ANsDnH6UDH6kwpAZMVC1JVsNG5hoFWJuWir9gzvXTcvmvBA/s1600/tanyax.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; height: 141px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 147px;"><img border="0" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlTbBePCD_mdz7Cp-u8dArZmGr3RRJnI6onIg0LMdVJP5g_9Te9r-3JlOTeyDXRZjqR03ruUQYyoYXopOWPXbic81L-uy-ANsDnH6UDH6kwpAZMVC1JVsNG5hoFWJuWir9gzvXTcvmvBA/s1600/tanyax.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Hey, my friend Tanya is doing a couple of giveaways! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I love Tanya's blog... Household Cents. She has great advice about how to manage your home...and since she is my frugal farmer friend... I like to help her out when I can! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Head over <a href="http://householdcents.blogspot.com/2011/11/shutterfly-giveaway.html">here</a> to win 25 free Shutterfly Christmas cards. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">If you are looking for a great Christmas gift...or just something a little more on the blingy side...check <a href="http://householdcents.blogspot.com/2011/11/shutterfly-giveaway.html">this</a> out! Who wouldn't want to win a ring with some bling?</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-91048307215892660842011-10-20T14:34:00.000-05:002011-10-20T14:34:54.823-05:00Sample SpotA few weeks ago, I heard about a Target Deal called the <a href="http://samples.target.com/?empty=1">Sample Spot</a>. I clicked over, impressed at the offering...a free beauty bag with a bunch of samples. I typed in my info...and the computer froze up. I figured I would not be one of the lucky to receive the bag.<br />
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Today I opened our mailbox and found this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VhgV6aNdbQ0/TqBoAQ7ioFI/AAAAAAAAA5I/7Zyjs0PZx4M/s1600/2011-10-20+12.15.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VhgV6aNdbQ0/TqBoAQ7ioFI/AAAAAAAAA5I/7Zyjs0PZx4M/s320/2011-10-20+12.15.32.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I squealed. Such a silly thing to be excited about. The kids squealed with me..and we all started to jig around the house. This is what I found inside:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2dwtwrLkLU/TqBYIERzb2I/AAAAAAAAA44/Zrn4se7xCKo/s1600/2011-10-20+12.12.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2dwtwrLkLU/TqBYIERzb2I/AAAAAAAAA44/Zrn4se7xCKo/s320/2011-10-20+12.12.48.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Pretty little bag, and some really nice samples! Ponds cleansing towelettes, three separate shampoo/conditioner samples...Loreal Youth Code Day/Night cream...Burts Bees Day Lotion...and 20 bucks worth of beauty coupons. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Thanks, Target! You made my day!Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-71594638103319491422011-10-17T13:52:00.001-05:002011-10-18T12:52:26.719-05:00Thousand GiftsI have neglected my list...and should not be...<br />
Remaining thankful in the midst of the madness!<br />
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171. Silence. <br />
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172. Two napping yahoos when you desperately need them to nap.<br />
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173. Incredibly upbeat, caring Doctors who call you right back!<br />
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174. Just the right words at just the right time from just the right soul to yours.<br />
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175. Linus and the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_Nzw2Z3YDA&feature=relmfu">great pumpkin</a>.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUoPDQHyqNR-AYm69rXywCgARVJivQ1wIyTXFyptPmdhnQbBNRBmPMV3IOdpRvlTx4fC9uNmCMc5ypfpOC0c6gaXWQpRcMZ_pvtKtDgUYs4KXUWTniBSOGS1Vluc_bOjXmHTR1Y84g3A/s1600/GreatPumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUoPDQHyqNR-AYm69rXywCgARVJivQ1wIyTXFyptPmdhnQbBNRBmPMV3IOdpRvlTx4fC9uNmCMc5ypfpOC0c6gaXWQpRcMZ_pvtKtDgUYs4KXUWTniBSOGS1Vluc_bOjXmHTR1Y84g3A/s200/GreatPumpkin.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pic from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:GreatPumpkin.jpg">here.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
176. Fresh paint for today, and bright hope for tomorrow....<br />
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177. Eccl. 7:13...Consider the work of God:<br />
For who is able to straighten what He has bent?<br />
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178. Psalm 86: 11...Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may live according to your truth!<br />
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179. Yes, that is what I said, <u>Fresh paint</u> for today...and bright hope for tomorrow!<br />
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180. Blessings all mine..and ten thousand beside!<br />
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<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-35406792172896210772011-10-17T07:44:00.015-05:002011-10-17T07:44:00.309-05:00Sunday Night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fuaM5DgXsCY/TpucadBof_I/AAAAAAAAA4M/WbfkCC1pBdI/s1600/333894_2436012334927_1090267323_2857529_1168118802_o%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fuaM5DgXsCY/TpucadBof_I/AAAAAAAAA4M/WbfkCC1pBdI/s320/333894_2436012334927_1090267323_2857529_1168118802_o%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: black;">I was sitting with my bed buddy, Jasmine Kitty,</span><span style="color: black;"> browsing through some of my favorite blogs, and blogger buddy <a href="http://toadifferentdrum.blogspot.com/2011/10/just-for-fun.html">Deborah</a> </span><span style="color: black;">had this sweet Sunday Evening idea...so I thought I would join her! A good way to start the week!</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">1. Name someone with the same birthday as you.</span> <br />
Mama Fox. My Epiphany sister. Love you, Mama Fox!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">2. What has been your favorite age so far?</span> <br />
Ask me in another 20 yrs!<br />
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<span style="background-color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">3. Where did you meet your husband?</span></span><br />
During a singles meet up at church. He just would not stop following me around. Go figure!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">4. How many children do you have?</span><br />
<a href="http://katnkompany.blogspot.com/2010/12/sweating-little-stuff.html">Four yahoos</a> made especially for us!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">5. Have you ever sung in front of a large number of people?</span> <br />
Yes, when I was young and foolish. Never to be repeated again.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">6. What’s the first thing you notice about the opposite gender?</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">I </span>noticed Jeff's eyes, and his permanent smile...his lips curve up at the corners. Yum!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">7. What really turns you off?</span> <br />
One time wonders who try to make a comeback. Seriously...get over it!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">8. What do you order at Starbucks?</span> <br />
Hot Chocolate Yeah, I know, pathetic. Not a coffee drinker...but give me a fancy cup of coco any day.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">9. What is your biggest mistake?</span> <br />
Attempting to watch my first episode of Dr. Who mid season/story. Totally overwhelmed, lost and a bit freaked out!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">10. As a child, what did you want to grow up to be?</span> <br />
I really don't remember. I was too busy wondering if I would...grow....up.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">11. Say something totally random about yourself.</span><br />
I am fascinated by Brangelina. It's an illness, I know. <br />
I have been seeking treatment, but so far, nothing has worked.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">12. Do you still watch kiddie movies or TV shows?</span> <br />
Um yeah. All.The.Time.<br />
Jeff and I used to watch Speed Racer together.<br />
He still loves to watch Leave it Beaver!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">13. Did you have braces?</span> <br />
Unfortunately...no. Desperately need them. Will never have them.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">14. Favorite Social Network? </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> </span>fb..I have tried to give it up...but the cooler months suck me back in.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">15. What is the most romantic thing someone has done for you?</span> <br />
Jeff, New Years Eve, 1994. At midnight, he told me he did not want to start the New Year without being sure we were gonna be together forever. Had no idea he was going to pop the question. Hands down best moment of my life.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">16. When do you know when it’s love?</span> <br />
When you still like him after 16 yrs of marriage!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">17. Do you speak any other languages?</span> <br />
Yes, we have a secret language we all use around here. If I told you what it was...I would have to kill you.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">18. Have you ever been to a tanning salon?</span> <br />
Unfortunately, yes. Fair freckled skin and tanning salons do not mix.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">19. What magazines do you read?</span> <br />
Family Fun. World. InStyle...just to be sure I am behind the times.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">20. What is playing on your iPod right now?</span> <br />
<a href="http://www.shawnmcdonaldmusic.com/">I will rise</a>...out of the ashes... rise.... gee, what is that guys name?<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">21. Have you ever ridden in a limo?</span> <br />
Yep. Made out in one, too!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">22. Has anyone you were really close to passed away?</span> <br />
Yes. <a href="http://katnkompany.blogspot.com/2010/11/what-do-you-do.html">Jeff's father</a> left us a year ago...Nov. 30th.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">23. Do you watch MTV?</span><br />
Last time I watched it was when MJ died. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5rK8ajlhNg&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PL3FB88D0A55EC8EF5">Billie Jean's not my lover</a>...<br />
All time favorite video....<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djV11Xbc914&ob=av2e">Take On Me</a>!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">24. What’s something that really annoys you?</span> <br />
Blogger. The never ending saga of signing in...trying to leave a comment...and not being able to do so.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">25. Which television show were you sad to say goodbye to?</span> <br />
This is why I love re-runs. We don't have to say goodbye.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">26. Can you dance?</span> <br />
Nope. Not. At. All. Do I like to dance? Yep. Just call me the world's most embarrassing mom.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">27. What’s your favorite place in the world?</span> <br />
My bed. Enough said. <br />
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<span style="color: blue;">28. Have you ever been rushed by an ambulance into the emergency room?</span> Nope.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">29. If you could meet anyone (dead or alive) who would it be?</span> <br />
Mother Theresa. 'cause I wish I was more like her... George W Bush.. 'cause I have lots of questions and I just feel the need to chat. My Grandpa Jim....'cause I never met him and I am incredibly curious about what he was really like. And so help me, I had better meet my buddy, <a href="http://householdcents.blogspot.com/">Tanya </a>someday...soon.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">30. If you could change one thing in the world for your child, what would it be? </span> Honestly...that my kids would be somehow biologically connected to us. There is nothing I could ever do to truly relieve the anguish that they feel from that disconnect. I thank God every day for who they are, and how He made them, and how He knit us together, how He will use these things in their life somehow...and that we are spiritually, eternally one in Christ! But how I wish I could ease their pain...somehow.<br />
<br />
Wanna play along? Leave me a comment and let me know....I'd love to learn more about you!Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-53332469906534195442011-10-12T07:45:00.031-05:002011-10-17T09:32:19.427-05:00Sunday Morning Mess<div style="text-align: center;">My 8 year old daughter, Mae, fell apart today. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> She could not get her shoes laced through...</div><div style="text-align: center;">and was waiting for someone to help her. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The house was in a flurry...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Trying to get four girls out the door early on Sunday morning, </div><div style="text-align: center;">My four girls, out the door...is quite the circus. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">It does not happen easily. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Some one always seems to become a victim.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">At any rate, my Mae fell apart. </div><div style="text-align: center;">No one was tending to her quick enough,</div><div style="text-align: center;">In her fragile emotional state, </div><div style="text-align: center;">she quite literally fell apart...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Clothes came off...</div><div style="text-align: center;">body flailing...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">She ended up in a wet, sloppy pile on her bed.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sure the world was going to come to an end.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">What to do? </div><div style="text-align: center;">Three other girls wanting to get to church...</div><div style="text-align: center;">What do we do?</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wait for her to get it together...</div><div style="text-align: center;">or send the rest onward...</div><div style="text-align: center;">and deal with the consequences?</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Jeff let her know her options...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">and in the end he left..</div><div style="text-align: center;"> without her.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>It broke her heart</u>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>It broke his heart</u>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">As I sat with Mae later, </div><div style="text-align: center;">arms wrapped around her, </div><div style="text-align: center;">her fuzzy, long hair tickling my nose, </div><div style="text-align: center;">she poured out her grieving broken heart. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">We wept over her fears of never being safe, </div><div style="text-align: center;">never being completely loved and cherished.</div><div style="text-align: center;">God came to her in her anguish. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Her anguish, </div><div style="text-align: center;">that we have all felt before, </div><div style="text-align: center;">unloved,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> unsafe, </div><div style="text-align: center;">that deep, dark hole we cannot ever fill...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mae got a chance to see that reality, </div><div style="text-align: center;">as an 8 yr old girl...</div><div style="text-align: center;">and the amazing treasure of an inheritance in Christ. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">The only place to ever feel complete, </div><div style="text-align: center;">and safe, </div><div style="text-align: center;">and cherished, </div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>is that priceless gift of salvation</u>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">She understands the gospel, </div><div style="text-align: center;">but now she is grasping the significance of how it plays out in our everyday life. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">What a joy, to be there with her in the midst of it..</div><div style="text-align: center;">that bittersweet reality of living out this earthly life.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Today Mae needed to become a mess first,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> for God to start the process of healing her heart.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>And so did Jeff</u>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Jeff left completely wounded...and afraid. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> Leaving his girl behind, and worried that he had caused her such pain. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Jeff is a fixer, </div><div style="text-align: center;">he cannot handle seeing any of his girls unhappy....</div><div style="text-align: center;">it is so hard for him to hand out a consequence </div><div style="text-align: center;">and then see it through. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">He wanted her to bounce back out of her mood </div><div style="text-align: center;">and go to church, </div><div style="text-align: center;">crisis averted, </div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>instead of allowing her to fall to pieces</u>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>And I think he kind of fell to pieces</u>, </div><div style="text-align: center;">as he watched her head that way. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> But he got the rest of the yahoos into the car and left....</div><div style="text-align: center;">....and thank God he did.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Jeff came home, hours later, a changed man. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">He was quiet. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Calm. </div><div style="text-align: center;">A bit emotional. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> He called the girls to come sit with me. </div><div style="text-align: center;">He had something he needed to say.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">He talked with us about how God had come to him during church.</div><div style="text-align: center;">How God had challenged his heart. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Had called him to serve his family. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Had convicted him to forgive,</div><div style="text-align: center;">to walk away from that anger, </div><div style="text-align: center;">and embrace the life God had given him.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">He admitted how he himself was struggling to forgive, </div><div style="text-align: center;">struggling to move beyond his hurt and confusion.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">He confessed that he was not serving his own family...</div><div style="text-align: center;">and that God was calling him to do just that. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Serve. His. Family. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The whole messy lot of us.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">God is so good.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <u>Life is such a mess, and God is so good</u>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">In the middle of the mess, God was there. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>And I really believe the only way we could have ever experienced God, </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>was to be in the middle of the mess.</u> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">If Mae had slipped on her shoes, </div><div style="text-align: center;">and jumped into the car...</div><div style="text-align: center;">none of this would have happened today. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The real pain and struggle would still be there, </div><div style="text-align: center;">under the surface, </div><div style="text-align: center;">being avoided or ignored....</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Embracing the mess means trusting the Lord. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Do you know what I mean? </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">We try to run away from the mess. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hide from it. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Or clean it up ourselves and fix it. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong> Instead of allowing God to do the work He intends to do...</strong></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><strong> in the midst of the mess. </strong></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="color: black; display: inline; font-family: "Calibri"; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;"><div align="center" style="font: 10pt tahoma; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center" style="background: #f5f5f5; font: 10pt tahoma; text-align: center;"></div></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/subalbumone/walkwithhimwednesdays2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-58676449958723762042011-10-07T17:26:00.000-05:002011-10-07T17:26:00.115-05:00Household Cents Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">My friend Tanya, is having a wonderful giveaway over at her blog...<a href="http://householdcents.blogspot.com/2011/10/magic-warble-review-and-giveaway.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FerPV+%28Household+Cents%29">Household Cents.</a></div><div style="text-align: center;">It is for a copy of the book, The Magic Warble.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb14iSxLQNtEGlY2Rvj2Ar8grfFLLMCZ02WDd3FMWaPGgzWSH7fWkFZSVytcSI6HnEog5HQS5UZ0apJ05TN86d9JU7v6SU0NlC0bsIduK4hFbvuvUI4MOK6W5mfZa7Ehmv5_9C7Oiw24Q/s1600/IMG_4533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb14iSxLQNtEGlY2Rvj2Ar8grfFLLMCZ02WDd3FMWaPGgzWSH7fWkFZSVytcSI6HnEog5HQS5UZ0apJ05TN86d9JU7v6SU0NlC0bsIduK4hFbvuvUI4MOK6W5mfZa7Ehmv5_9C7Oiw24Q/s1600/IMG_4533.JPG" /></a></div><div align="center">If you are looking for a good read aloud for your kiddos....head over to <a href="http://householdcents.blogspot.com/2011/10/magic-warble-review-and-giveaway.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FerPV+%28Household+Cents%29">Household Cents</a></div><div align="center">and check it out!</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-38554761964540665342011-09-27T19:35:00.000-05:002011-09-27T19:46:17.205-05:00Memoriesof Door County always warm my heart. And my heart needs warming on this cold, rainy night. School is in full swing and there is no room for much else. It leaves us wondering if this is really worth it, is it really the way to go? We spend so much time just reacting to each crisis we come upon, we are no longer parenting with a purpose. We are merely getting by, checking off the list, trying to survive.<br />
<br />
And so on Sunday, we laid it before the Lord. God, provide for us a way to do this home school thing, if that is what you have for our family. We know you will provide us with all we need to fulfill your purpose for our life. If this home school thing is no longer the way to go....please let us know. <br />
<br />
Lord, please let us know.<br />
<br />
So tonight I look at my favorite Door County Pic of our Yahoos, and praise Him for that moment in time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPak3Kd-xwQdz3uZUTWBduqR_g-yvuCs9y6DlKDjJ4yjR8koZ5HevW1AdbxZQMFuXWKYfnXlencHNKEB_Mkb3lIUJk3WUXS8dn7W4G77jlCRcokN_APjWvpq41nlAy8rVwTg_c7p36eko/s1600/314637_277656785577769_100000003503291_1230689_1585174260_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" kca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPak3Kd-xwQdz3uZUTWBduqR_g-yvuCs9y6DlKDjJ4yjR8koZ5HevW1AdbxZQMFuXWKYfnXlencHNKEB_Mkb3lIUJk3WUXS8dn7W4G77jlCRcokN_APjWvpq41nlAy8rVwTg_c7p36eko/s320/314637_277656785577769_100000003503291_1230689_1585174260_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div> I thank Him for the privilege of being the mama to those four wild girls, purposely knit together and fitted into our family for His glory. We do not know what the future holds, but we are so thankful for each and every moment we share.<br />
<br />
I do not know how much time I will be spending on my blog the next few months. There is so much I would love to write about and share, but there is no time these days. God is working in so many ways. It is a crazy ride, pretty sobering at times, but I would not wish it to be any other way.<br />
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Parting verse to tuck into your heart and mind,<br />
<br />
"Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has forgiven you."<br />
Eph. 4:32Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-18545449948679531232011-08-06T15:49:00.000-05:002011-08-06T15:49:47.353-05:00Pardon our Dust!Feeling the need to update things around here!Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-11823109226090804342011-07-25T16:48:00.000-05:002011-07-25T16:48:34.183-05:00Flooded...<div align="center">with tears, with heartache, with exhaustion.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">with emotion, anxiety, fear.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">trickle here, dripping there...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">the rush does come.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">it comes and consumes.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">paralyzing the soul, </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I know not how to survive, </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">except to climb aboard the raft of faith.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">and so I continue to remember the blessings...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">161. safe arrivals</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">162. a bearded Jeff, tanned and toned from hard work</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">163. young hearts excited to do the work</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">164. potty training a fast learner</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">165. a giggling Jack-Jack </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">166. old hymns and the reminders they carry</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">167. homemade pasta, meatballs</div><div align="center">and the dear friend who made them</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">168. a hot sun to dry up the wet</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">169. teachable souls</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">170. another day to be reminded and remember</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-46064647175026129072011-07-20T23:59:00.000-05:002011-07-22T06:29:27.978-05:00Enough<div align="center">It's been a long, hard day, and my patience has worn thin.</div><div align="center">I got nothing left.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Nothing.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">The yahoos are antsy and rubbing me wrong.</div><div align="center">So I issue a decree:</div><div align="center">Clean up or no movie night.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I give each a specific job and set the timer.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Off they go.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Kiki finishes in record time. </div><div align="center">I pat her head and toss her into the crib.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I wait.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">It is very quiet.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Too quiet.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I walk towards the bedroom.</div><div align="center">As the door opens I gasp.</div><div align="center">Stuff. </div><div align="center"> Everywhere.</div><div align="center">I mean</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">E v e r y w h e r e.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">My lips tremble as the angry words bubble up in my throat.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">The green pillow is the final straw.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">It is dangling from the curtain rod</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Taunting me from above.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I gurgle as I imagine the destruction if it actually slipped from it precarious position.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">The shelf with the cds.</div><div align="center">The precious moments trinket celebrating Mae's birth.</div><div align="center">The sweet jewelry box full of treasure.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Li catches my look, and knows to hide underneath the covers.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I hold my breath.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">God help me. Please God help me.</div><div align="center">I am too tired.</div><div align="center">Way. too. tired.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Li peeks out. She misunderstands the silence. She unknowingly tippie-toes right over the cliff.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">"Did you make the popcorn yet?"</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">What? Popcorn? Are you kidding me?</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">P o p c o r n?</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">My head spins a full 360 as the rot gushes out of my mouth.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Why do I say this stuff?</div><div align="center">What good does it do?</div><div align="center">Why do I fall back into it over and over and over again?</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I give myself a time out.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">The whispers start. </div><div align="center"> I am useless.</div><div align="center">I am not good for them.</div><div align="center">I am no good for Jeff.</div><div align="center">They should all be with someone else.</div><div align="center">Someone with a healthy body.</div><div align="center">Someone more patient.</div><div align="center">Someone more tolerant.</div><div align="center">Someone with more energy.</div><div align="center">Someone with fingers that can cut up veggies.</div><div align="center">And stronger arms that can scrub the sink.</div><div align="center">Someone who can clean the house.</div><div align="center">or someone who does not get grumpy if the house is a mess.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">It has been a long time since I have heard these whispers.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">But they are there.</div><div align="center">They are convincing.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I know I need help.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Somehow I manage to text a dear friend.</div><div align="center">Someone I trust.</div><div align="center">Someone I can be honest with about how I feel, and I know she will not judge me.</div><div align="center">I know she will pray for me.</div><div align="center">I know she will be honest with me.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I type it out.</div><div align="center">Bare my soul.</div><div align="center">I am afraid to hit send.</div><div align="center">But I know I need help.</div><div align="center">Off it goes.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Mae is standing next to me</div><div align="center">She puts her hand on my shoulder and asks me to check her work.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Her hand on my shoulder.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><u><strong>Mae had her hand on my shoulder.</strong></u></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">A few weeks back Jeff and I were having a lively discussion about the eldest yahoo.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">She can really get under my skin.</div><div align="center">When we need to address a certain behavior, she will inevitably do or say something that sets me off.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">If Jeff sees me floundering, he will try to signal me to back away.</div><div align="center">He will flail his arms. Tap a table.</div><div align="center">Stomp a foot.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">He looks a bit like a traffic cop.</div><div align="center">Or a dog trainer trying to get an unruly pup to obey.</div><div align="center">Sit Ubu, sit.</div><div align="center">Good dog.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">It does not work.</div><div align="center">I end up ticked off at him, too.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I asked him to stop with the flag signals and just come alongside me and put his hand on my shoulder.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">He scoffed at me.</div><div align="center">Now I am sure no one would be compelled to come any where near me when I am shooting off my mouth.</div><div align="center">I imagine that would be the last thing Jeff would want to do.</div><div align="center">But I asked him to give it a try.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Stand next to me, with your hand on my shoulder.</div><div align="center">It helps me feel like you are coming alongside me.</div><div align="center">To help me along. Find my way. Get on the right path.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Ya know, it works?</div><div align="center">I melt.</div><div align="center">I melt at his touch.</div><div align="center">I feel safe. Like I am no longer in this alone.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Not only did it help me.</div><div align="center">It helped Jeff.</div><div align="center">And it helped Mac.</div><div align="center">When Jeff stands next to me, with his hand on my shoulder, he is supporting me.</div><div align="center">Like we are a team.</div><div align="center">Mac needed to see that.</div><div align="center">She needed to see her parents working together.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Anyway, back to Mae, standing next to me.</div><div align="center">I am beyond help, just sent that text, and Mae is next to me.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><strong><u>Her hand on my shoulder.</u></strong></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Mom, come check my work.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I melt at her touch, too.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">The room is spinning.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Please come, come check my work.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I shuffle down the hall, and into the room.</div><div align="center">Everything is in it's place.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Except a package.</div><div align="center">It's wrapped in a baby blanket.</div><div align="center">There is a note attached.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-euCnN8smo1o/TieHAb1-qzI/AAAAAAAAArU/zy-KMFCApBk/s1600/2011-07-20+20.52.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-euCnN8smo1o/TieHAb1-qzI/AAAAAAAAArU/zy-KMFCApBk/s320/2011-07-20+20.52.43.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">"Sometimes you make me happy and other times you don't so read through it and try to be more patient."</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Tears.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I love my Mae.</div><div align="center">I love my Lord.</div><div align="center">I love how He works.</div><div align="center">How He works through her.</div><div align="center">To work on me.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I unwrap the blanket.</div><div align="center">This is what I find.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hDrqn91aww/TieHGg9YQeI/AAAAAAAAArY/5i6_dCGJxbs/s1600/2011-07-20+20.54.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hDrqn91aww/TieHGg9YQeI/AAAAAAAAArY/5i6_dCGJxbs/s320/2011-07-20+20.54.42.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">More tears.</div><div align="center">This is my old hymnal.</div><div align="center">From college.</div><div align="center">Suddenly the phone rings. It is Jeff. He is calling from far away.</div><div align="center"><em>How are you sweetie? What's going on?</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I cannot speak. I hug the hymnal. I am overwhelmed by God's presence.</div><div align="center">Overwhelmed at His care for me.</div><div align="center">Astonished at His timing.</div><div align="center">Mae is breathing next to me. She leans in to hear.</div><div align="center">Her fragrant curls calm my soul. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><em>Are you ok?</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">How did he know? I melt at Jeff's voice.</div><div align="center">So sweet. So reassuring.</div><div align="center">I am not alone.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Yes, I say. I am ok.</div><div align="center"> But he knows better.</div><div align="center"><em>Do you want to talk about it?</em></div><div align="center">No, not now. Not right now.</div><div align="center">It's all too much.</div><div align="center">I cannot speak.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Later?</div><div align="center"><em>Yes, later.</em></div><div align="center"><br />
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</div><div align="center">Long before I knew Jeff.</div><div align="center">There were lonely nights I would sit at our organ </div><div align="center">and peck out the songs I loved with my goofy fingers.</div><div align="center">I used to sing as loud as I could.</div><div align="center">The words would soothe me.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I did not know what the future held for me back then.</div><div align="center">I honestly thought I would be gone by the age of thirty.</div><div align="center">I thought my body would just be done.</div><div align="center">It would give up.</div><div align="center">And God would take me home.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Now, I never dreamed I would have the life I have.</div><div align="center">No. Way.</div><div align="center">But that is a different story. For a different time.</div><div align="center">Back to Mae.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I turn the hymnal carefully and rub the cover.</div><div align="center">Just the feel of it softens the hurt.</div><div align="center">I finger through the pages and show it to Mae.</div><div align="center">Pick one, I say.</div><div align="center">We will learn it together.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">She sits at the piano and starts to finger the keys.</div><div align="center">A few tries and she's got it.</div><div align="center">I peck away at the harmony and she is delighted.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">And we sing...</div><div align="center">Her eight year old voice just reaching the notes</div><div align="center">My middle aged alto rasping along</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><em>My faith has found a resting place</em></div><div align="center"><em>Not in device nor creed.</em></div><div align="center"><em>I trust the ever living God</em></div><div align="center"><em>His wounds for me shall plead.</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><em>I need no other argument</em></div><div align="center"><em>I need no other plea</em></div><div align="center"><em>It is enough that Jesus died</em></div><div align="center"><em>And that He died for me.</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Mae's voice strengthens as she comprehends the words...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><em>Enough for me that Jesus saves</em></div><div align="center"><em>This ends my fear and doubt</em></div><div align="center"><em>A sinful soul I come to Him</em></div><div align="center"><em>He'll never cast me out...</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><em>My heart is leaning on the Word</em></div><div align="center"><em>The written word of God</em></div><div align="center"><em>Salvation by my saviors name</em></div><div align="center"><em>Salvation through His blood.</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Mae is swaying by now, bound together with the music</div><div align="center"> and her Lord...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><em>My great Physician heals the sick,</em></div><div align="center"><em>The lost He came to save,</em></div><div align="center"><em>For me His precious blood He gave,</em></div><div align="center"><em>For me His life He gave...</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><em>I need no other argument</em></div><div align="center"><em>I need no other plea,</em></div><div align="center"><em>It is enough that Jesus died,</em></div><div align="center"><em>and that He died for me.</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I look at her and see...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Pure joy.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">There is no doubt in my mind now.</div><div align="center">No whispering voices any more.</div><div align="center">Just the pure powerful word of God</div><div align="center">and the sweet song of Mae.</div><div align="center">It is enough.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/subalbumone/walkwithhimwednesdays2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-28202467266674020392011-07-18T17:50:00.000-05:002011-07-18T17:52:58.732-05:00Going Without<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7ukd59LRLMTO1MoNnDYfHWxnd3EVDGzIO2-5m0jg2a3iDBEjGmflgTHE5IPTLEli87AcpQbEjNQErwVZMwUWDSyEVyGU6aymEaogNH368RfgEPcOzFxT1kf2K02U-n43q5xgrFacxIg/s1600/39994_1584128487668_1369430429_31510281_4907217_n%255B1%255D+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7ukd59LRLMTO1MoNnDYfHWxnd3EVDGzIO2-5m0jg2a3iDBEjGmflgTHE5IPTLEli87AcpQbEjNQErwVZMwUWDSyEVyGU6aymEaogNH368RfgEPcOzFxT1kf2K02U-n43q5xgrFacxIg/s320/39994_1584128487668_1369430429_31510281_4907217_n%255B1%255D+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">For the last two summers these two have experienced amazing adventures in the Canadian Wilderness.</div><div align="center">They were excited about going again this summer.</div><div align="center">But God had a different plan.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I'll let you know more about that next week.</div><div align="center">Today I am counting the hours and minutes along with the blessings.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">161. Jeff and Mac</div><div align="center">162. The Yahoos</div><div align="center">163. Air-conditioning</div><div align="center">164. Quiet play time </div><div align="center">165. Smart phones</div><div align="center">166. Neighbors</div><div align="center">167. Grammy visits</div><div align="center">168. Weekly Lunch with Patty</div><div align="center">169. Sprinklers</div><div align="center">170. A Good Book<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-6474364614054413572011-07-11T20:25:00.000-05:002011-07-11T20:31:26.904-05:00One Hot Day....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-liUxIUny7uk/ThuagFfd9hI/AAAAAAAAAqc/nywiWPxEHes/s1600/2011-07-11+18.47.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" m$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-liUxIUny7uk/ThuagFfd9hI/AAAAAAAAAqc/nywiWPxEHes/s320/2011-07-11+18.47.03.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">and ten more to add to the list....</div><div style="text-align: center;">151. lots of purple cone flowers</div><div style="text-align: center;">152. old college buddies that come for a visit</div><div style="text-align: center;">153. old college buddies that breathe new life into a weary soul</div><div style="text-align: center;">154. looking back and seeing how far you have come</div><div style="text-align: center;">155. An evening shower after a hot day</div><div style="text-align: center;">156. cookie dough ice cream</div><div style="text-align: center;">157. Jeff's hummmmm </div><div style="text-align: center;">158. one true love</div><div style="text-align: center;">159. today</div><div style="text-align: center;">160. I AM</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-74578389236407810482011-07-04T17:20:00.000-05:002011-07-04T17:20:19.432-05:00It's been too long...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ndmFWWjwu0iUAM7sAjOmkp3jGDPrJYJ4U4b2SslSgf2O6k2L7Bb0WIxpmCniweBCW2ibtETY3MCbtXsvGud5_AWl7A5n-uQkjm7zZ6CXK37SSxpGBjr_QuReb2xb1mQb2JB6RIPT-kk/s1600/riverbluff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ndmFWWjwu0iUAM7sAjOmkp3jGDPrJYJ4U4b2SslSgf2O6k2L7Bb0WIxpmCniweBCW2ibtETY3MCbtXsvGud5_AWl7A5n-uQkjm7zZ6CXK37SSxpGBjr_QuReb2xb1mQb2JB6RIPT-kk/s320/riverbluff.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6IN9G1xGdDs5uOhg2SGWGJYCpFQ3ddoxqo8Slv9uNIYhtQI1TUvOPJCB-sUbPwV3Eev3P1295FtOLHJON0gpHlrv3hfAQSiH_156iY8ThV8Ixr-A6i0gvPHIbqtJ4BilfjZx1VOUPAs/s1600/jeffrock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6IN9G1xGdDs5uOhg2SGWGJYCpFQ3ddoxqo8Slv9uNIYhtQI1TUvOPJCB-sUbPwV3Eev3P1295FtOLHJON0gpHlrv3hfAQSiH_156iY8ThV8Ixr-A6i0gvPHIbqtJ4BilfjZx1VOUPAs/s320/jeffrock.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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Time to start counting again.<br />
I need to give thanks in the midst of the good and the bad.<br />
It's a rambling list...<br />
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141. Hot summer days, so hot you cannot breathe.<br />
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142. Giggles from our littlest yahoo, and she stalks me from behind.<br />
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143. Sobering discoveries that lead to repentance, healing, and eventually, independance.<br />
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144. Purple cone flowers.<br />
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145. River running across pebble, sand and stone...<br />
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146. One lone catfish that makes the row worthwhile<br />
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147. Silence. Complete and utter silence. A gift from Jeff, just for today.<br />
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148. Freedom<br />
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149. Another day <br />
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150. A frog. In a cave.<br />
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<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-52902953279677879962011-04-04T18:28:00.000-05:002011-04-04T18:28:59.875-05:00The Hard Stuff<div align="center">It is really hard to be thankful for the things you wish were not so.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><u><span style="font-size: large;">Thousand Endless Gifts</span></u></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">131. Pain</div><div align="center">Reminds me of our imperfection,</div><div align="center">and the need to be healed</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">132. Fear</div><div align="center">that I might diligently Hide in Him</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">133. Weariness</div><div align="center">that I might rest in Him</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">134. The Unknown</div><div align="center">teaches me to trust in Him</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">135. Humility</div><div align="center">puts me in my place</div><div align="center">and He in His</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">136. Heartache</div><div align="center">Woos me to our One True Love</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">137. Hunger</div><div align="center">so I might feast upon His word</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">138. Barrenness</div><div align="center">that I might opens my heart to His children</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">139. Insecurity</div><div align="center">so I might discover the peace that surpasses understanding</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">140. Darkness</div><div style="text-align: center;">so I might search for His light</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-65945666526292785162011-03-30T21:00:00.000-05:002011-03-29T21:19:30.319-05:00What 'cha doing? Wordless Wednesday!<div align="center">Latin</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSEOvJZagcYpgws5DAjgzb6hbmnbGDyrbezYZmKjaMKrJTQwCdoE60zvrEYdNyp1Swik-Ku410F2OUD-3ouOr8InyddQCBtXmvLn0yaQJWs8mzgKtHMaGT__AqIuQXc9Eg47a2daltRXc/s1600/2011-03-29+16.11.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSEOvJZagcYpgws5DAjgzb6hbmnbGDyrbezYZmKjaMKrJTQwCdoE60zvrEYdNyp1Swik-Ku410F2OUD-3ouOr8InyddQCBtXmvLn0yaQJWs8mzgKtHMaGT__AqIuQXc9Eg47a2daltRXc/s320/2011-03-29+16.11.59.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Telemann's Minuet 14</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmzmVJuhcJfjsGeBjyQwquTITJJ8H5-J1lV31OOkV8Re5Og663a9iXvlrabPouxwplw8qOJ_NO3SK255faKOZOb9H5XlazDPT8eaiPNZjQsudm1VSFLyP3T_fL4MDoWv43VGwCpzyuo4/s1600/2011-03-29+16.14.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmzmVJuhcJfjsGeBjyQwquTITJJ8H5-J1lV31OOkV8Re5Og663a9iXvlrabPouxwplw8qOJ_NO3SK255faKOZOb9H5XlazDPT8eaiPNZjQsudm1VSFLyP3T_fL4MDoWv43VGwCpzyuo4/s320/2011-03-29+16.14.41.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Pretending to sleep!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip6448LPGIHl-b_mqBaQpZMZG-k8JEODM_k28dHX2uzxr87aEV5GzGDOgPCfTGFnbFgTBSvGYI6dQmtu7Ey-AL3VCCSHjHOWbYKW07oq9_Yqq_ngq9CLxk0q6ItVIh4kfgeLPnwcJsv7c/s1600/2011-03-29+16.13.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip6448LPGIHl-b_mqBaQpZMZG-k8JEODM_k28dHX2uzxr87aEV5GzGDOgPCfTGFnbFgTBSvGYI6dQmtu7Ey-AL3VCCSHjHOWbYKW07oq9_Yqq_ngq9CLxk0q6ItVIh4kfgeLPnwcJsv7c/s320/2011-03-29+16.13.23.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Dreaming</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYY4_sjV77ipxT-RBEaAeV6h3dZj0YyP6U7GPrIUladjZ687iTGtMTJhVwgaREPqo2HVYFY2wryyXFrg9hqLYFoy1-N2Prbrshq49gwTJD8ZT7O10Knc6SMbPCZbjEKMeEhjOsYiiKibQ/s1600/2011-03-29+16.13.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYY4_sjV77ipxT-RBEaAeV6h3dZj0YyP6U7GPrIUladjZ687iTGtMTJhVwgaREPqo2HVYFY2wryyXFrg9hqLYFoy1-N2Prbrshq49gwTJD8ZT7O10Knc6SMbPCZbjEKMeEhjOsYiiKibQ/s320/2011-03-29+16.13.44.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Waiting for a walk!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhece6SDDjkVxzGnhtxw-TdC6s5RWYAZAFOUbdJGLbD77jWHuJCixJzinfKgVMTWJJFq06MqJpeOZXO5gBQ2tMpSspeGEE7UCcv6G4J_VVbUR4ldPMJ-17CR5Uihj0DfJY6uVplV7U4MQs/s1600/2011-03-29+16.16.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhece6SDDjkVxzGnhtxw-TdC6s5RWYAZAFOUbdJGLbD77jWHuJCixJzinfKgVMTWJJFq06MqJpeOZXO5gBQ2tMpSspeGEE7UCcv6G4J_VVbUR4ldPMJ-17CR5Uihj0DfJY6uVplV7U4MQs/s320/2011-03-29+16.16.22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">What are you up to today?<br />
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</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-75895914306931778002011-03-29T20:28:00.000-05:002011-03-29T20:28:52.274-05:00Weekly PassagesThis year I decided to try to read through the One Year Bible. I try to do this every year, and really struggle with keeping up with it. Every year, I have started strong. Then I miss a couple weeks, and find myself unable to catch back up. I will skip ahead to where everyone else is at, missing out on huge chunks of scripture.<br />
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I did not want to do this again. I started a blog. I needed something to help me keep up with my reading. It is pathetic, I know. I wish I could sit here and tell you that the Word of God is so inspiring that I wake up anxious to read whatever it is HE has for me to learn. But there are days when I am so distracted by my circumstances that I am just not motivated enough to believe He has anything important for me to hear. <br />
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But I am finding that He does have important, inspiring, relevant words for me, everyday. I do not always find the time to share these words in my blog. But the last three months have been so rich. My mind whirls as I read about the Israelites and how they fumble about. My heart pounds as I listen to the Lord and His deep desire to dwell with His people. What amazing days those must have been.<br />
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Anyway, if you are reading the One Year Bible this year, I would love to hear what you are learning.<br />
You can catch up with us at <a href="http://weeklypassages.blogspot.com/">here! </a>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-40701749058519081522011-03-28T09:30:00.000-05:002011-03-28T09:30:02.150-05:00Shepherds, and Pastures, and Cups Overflowing....<div style="text-align: center;">When my heart is tipping over with grief, and consumed with worry over the future, </div><div style="text-align: center;">Our gracious Heavenly Father bestows upon me a reminder of His goodness in Psalm 23. </div><div style="text-align: center;">How could I sit in my angst </div><div style="text-align: center;">when He promises us...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Endless Gifts...</div><br />
<div align="center"></div><div align="center">121. Our own personal shepherd...on duty...24/7</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">122. We shall not "lack"...for anything...</div><div align="center">ever</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">123. green pastures</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">124. quiet waters</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">125. Our own person tour guide...on duty...24/7</div><div align="center">(who stakes HIS own reputation on our ability to navigate life)</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">126. no.more.fear</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">127. guidance and discipline </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">128. A feast in the midst of a battle</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">129. overflowing cups</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">130. Goodness </div><div align="center">Lovingkindess, </div><div align="center">Dwelling in His house</div><div align="center">Forever!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-70395704982319025042011-03-26T11:26:00.000-05:002011-03-26T11:26:28.148-05:00Spring Sensory Giveaway!Some of you know that one of our yahoos has been diagnosed with a sensory disorder. <a href="http://katnkompany.blogspot.com/2011/01/story-of-li.html">Li</a> is our four year old. She is full of life and teaching us so much. She is the most energetic kid I have ever met.<br />
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She is friendly and outgoing and inventive. She indulges in all of her senses, from smelling every bottle of shampoo on the drugstore shelf to slowly rubbing lotion up and down, and up and down, and up and down her legs! She will take enormous amounts of time washing her <strike>hands</strike> um, arms after playing outside because those bubbles are just too much fun to just wash her hands and rinse them straight down the drain.<br />
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Li has a hard time with her senses, too. She cannot handle bright light. She frets if she hears a repetitive noise and cannot make it stop. She has a hard time chewing and swallowing broccoli. She would rather tuck that green veggie into her cheeks like a chipmunk instead of actually eating it. She ends up with broccoli juice running down her shirt! She can be incredibly un-huggable...and yet very huggable at the same time!<br />
Li is not all that excited about wearing jeans. She spends most of her time in leggings and really cute skirts.<br />
Which is fine with me, because she looks, well, really cute!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignoYzNPJZnk4o6EA7CAds9My-QWvQw-cjrgOtALvXD3OK4ZCZ87J7JngC_-Q3djf9knZDzHzFLcrVxEkjl49yU1cHGDwzUMfDPbBJVJrhY5nqV1iiUf8gvkBnP2ACHUEDMkDWmQhudhI/s1600/karalegs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignoYzNPJZnk4o6EA7CAds9My-QWvQw-cjrgOtALvXD3OK4ZCZ87J7JngC_-Q3djf9knZDzHzFLcrVxEkjl49yU1cHGDwzUMfDPbBJVJrhY5nqV1iiUf8gvkBnP2ACHUEDMkDWmQhudhI/s320/karalegs.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Yep, our Li makes life really interesting and really fun. <br />
Understanding her sensory disorder helps us understand <u>her.</u><br />
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It is always good to connect with others that are struggling with the same issues. So we have joined a<br />
<a href="http://www.spdbloggernetwork.com/">SPD blogger network</a>.<br />
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Networking is always a good thing, right?<br />
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<h3><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">When I was rummaging through my reading this morning, I found that SPD and Soft Clothing were having a </span><a href="http://www.softclothing.net/products/sale/giveaways/"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">giveaway!</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span> </span></h3><h3>Check this out:</h3><h3>From the Soft Clothing website:</h3>Soft Clothing for All Children and The <a href="http://www.spdbloggernetwork.com/"><span style="color: #006699;">SPD Blogger Network</span></a> are co-sponsoring an incredible Sensory Friendly Spring Giveaway! 2 Grand Prizes will be given (one for boys, one for girls), and will each include the following sensory friendly items, which focus on fine motor development, dramatic play skills, sensory integration, creative expression, auditory exploration, and of course, fun! Whatever holiday or season your family celebrates, there is something in this stocking for someone you love!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><h3 style="text-align: center;"><strong style="font-style: normal;">Your Sensory Prizes!</strong></h3><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> Puffy Easter Basket (Chick) Pottery Barn Kids (boys prize) </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Puffy Easter Basket (Rabbit) from Pottery Barn Kids (girls prize) </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">"<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ill-Tell-You-Why-Talking-about-Tactile-Defensiveness/150259768367778?sk=wall"><span style="color: #006699;">I'll Tell You Why I Can't Wear Those Clothes</span></a>," by Noreen O'Sullivan </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Soft Seamless Sock 2-pack </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Vestibular Wedge </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Sensory Body Sock </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Alex Toys Monster Bubbles </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Alex Toys Sack Racing: Frog and Monkey </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Squiglet Fidget Bracelets </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">One complete Springy Soft look for girls OR </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;"></span><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">One complete Springy Soft look for boys </address><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> </address><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> </address><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.softclothing.net/products/sale/giveaways/">Go check it out!</a> </address><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> </address><address style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"> </address><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;">I am hoping to share more about our adventure with Li here on our blog. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; line-height: 18px;">If you have a child with sensory disorder, please leave a comment! I would love to hear your stories! </span></span>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-36008582996754866142011-03-23T10:00:00.000-05:002011-03-23T10:00:04.838-05:00Under the Trellis- March<div align="center">The weather is finally starting to warm up!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">The Yahoos have been out everyday, playing under the trellis!</div><div align="center"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcGNeM6pXWors4DARWMyz2Q-RTB-ZTPImQpRyVlWTg7ypybOyaRRq4tN_XhptQeiNVDEQ0sbpQZKK2IMLMWwqbV9mhMhEwS09oY50fF1aslVecx_YtNPAX531n7p1TYv-9Z7aAEVZNuU/s1600/trellisbest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcGNeM6pXWors4DARWMyz2Q-RTB-ZTPImQpRyVlWTg7ypybOyaRRq4tN_XhptQeiNVDEQ0sbpQZKK2IMLMWwqbV9mhMhEwS09oY50fF1aslVecx_YtNPAX531n7p1TYv-9Z7aAEVZNuU/s320/trellisbest.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">I wonder how different this will look in a month!</div><div align="center"><br />
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</div><div align="center"></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-86612118556520573892011-03-21T20:20:00.000-05:002011-03-21T20:20:21.752-05:00Twelve Years Ago Today...<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkoV4ymE_4GNevaSdjYJTPqi2ujQR8h3nwJ2ZeYBNrjkjk66cUzJ7vWXjwJaqnFHBddE0rmYVBtG0f37v_lztQN80Wq6MPEOPLjnsEVIA4LoWPpZKYmmjOq159CfuKHYeUzfmMs7pT6KM/s1600/manpopsnmaccrop+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkoV4ymE_4GNevaSdjYJTPqi2ujQR8h3nwJ2ZeYBNrjkjk66cUzJ7vWXjwJaqnFHBddE0rmYVBtG0f37v_lztQN80Wq6MPEOPLjnsEVIA4LoWPpZKYmmjOq159CfuKHYeUzfmMs7pT6KM/s200/manpopsnmaccrop+%25282%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">12 years ago today... </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a sweet, amazing young lady did a very brave thing...she chose to let go of the tiny little baby girl God has given her. This baby girl she had nourished, looked after, and protected inside of her for nine months...The baby girl she had struggled to give birth to (for a good 19 hours!) The baby girl she had snuggled with, slept with, breastfed, and watched over for the first 2 weeks of her life... This God-fearing, creative, nurturing soul took that baby girl and placed her into my arms, and asked me to be her momma...<br />
12 years ago today! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">On that day...12 years ago, Jeff and I were at a christening for our niece. She was 3 months old, and our hearts were breaking. You see, we had been told, 2 weeks earlier, that the baby girl we thought might be coming home, was going home with her birth mama. We were heart broken...and the last thing we wanted to do was go to a christening for the first baby girl in our family!</span> <span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But we went, and shared that special time with our family. We were so at peace, we knew that our little niece was such a wonderful gift to us all. We left that evening, went home and settled down in our jammies...ready to snuggle up and relax after such a hard day.</span> <span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-4b378DaHpPamCxk7oLy1lJS6COm8O84rUQ8Fd0SzmpV9RFgq8JW4r-oq4HLVODrYSQJd_u60Iy2SgZ4l2_omTJxs2AM-VpQJ5NaXN5QAxGrxtRnn1ujnR6O5IfTrIj04EwkLiMmkCU/s1600/popsnmacScan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-4b378DaHpPamCxk7oLy1lJS6COm8O84rUQ8Fd0SzmpV9RFgq8JW4r-oq4HLVODrYSQJd_u60Iy2SgZ4l2_omTJxs2AM-VpQJ5NaXN5QAxGrxtRnn1ujnR6O5IfTrIj04EwkLiMmkCU/s320/popsnmacScan.jpg" width="218" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The phone rang. We knew it was our social worker from the agency. She had planned to call us that night, just to check in with us both and see how we were doing after going through a "change of heart." Jeff answered the phone in the kitchen. I grabbed the extension in the bedroom. We met each other in the hall as she started to talk.</span> <span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Well," she said, "I am glad you are both there. I need you to get in the car and drive down here. You need to come right away. Do not stop for anything, we have everything you need. Your baby girl is waiting for you to take her home!"</span> <span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jeff looked at me, tears in his eyes. His dream of a baby girl had just come true.</span> <span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Well," he said, "Could we put our clothes on first?" </span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The baby girl we thought we had lost was placed into my arms that night. She looked right at me, as though she knew she was right where she belonged. Her birth mama tells me when she saw the look on Mac's face; she knew she had made the right decision. She knew that Mac belonged with us.</span> <span style="font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">So today we praise God for Mac's birth mama, and the amazing gift she brought into our life 12 years ago. We praise Him for the courage she has and the complete, unconditional love she gives to Mac, our other daughters and to us. What a privilege, what an honor to know her. And I pray everyday; I might be as courageous and loving as she. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Just a note: This is a re post from a few years ago. Mac's birth mom is still very much a loving amazing example to us all. We adore her and thank God for her everyday. Mac is so very much like her birth mother, and we praise God for the striking resemblance, both physically, and spiritually. They love the same things, experience life in the same ways, and even use the same words! Knowing Mac''s birth mama has helped us understand who Mac is! What a glorious gift adoption is! People say how blessed Mac is to be a part of our family, but we believe we are abundantly blessed to have her for a daughter, and her birth family as a part of our family!</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">12 years ago we began a glorious journey with the arrival of our Mac! God has since added three more to the mix! What a blessing and privilege to have our little ones with us! We praise the Lord every day for them!</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 5pt 0in; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in;"><br />
</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-60128980770913164762011-03-21T09:27:00.000-05:002011-03-27T09:33:55.503-05:00Mellow March Moon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQYz3cK38tpB8C9KPtDVBGWktmf92JBovQlwNo6l9TZss2yDmoRjsg_NntMjFNJO5c89Fb2chHvKjjnU1mHGTMmxMQs9p96acrKzGo5J8aclSpuWtF_H5PDbxQGg0NfoYyXZd_mzOyGQ/s1600/March2011+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQYz3cK38tpB8C9KPtDVBGWktmf92JBovQlwNo6l9TZss2yDmoRjsg_NntMjFNJO5c89Fb2chHvKjjnU1mHGTMmxMQs9p96acrKzGo5J8aclSpuWtF_H5PDbxQGg0NfoYyXZd_mzOyGQ/s320/March2011+003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">O LORD, our Lord,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> How majestic is Your name in all the earth,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Who have displayed Your splendor above the heavens!</div><div style="text-align: center;"> From the mouth of infants and nursing babes You have established strength</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Because of Your adversaries,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> To make the enemy and the revengeful cease.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> The moon and the stars, which You have ordained;</div><div style="text-align: center;"> What is man that You take thought of him,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> And the son of man that You care for him?</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Yet You have made him a little lower than God,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> And You crown him with glory and majesty!</div><div style="text-align: center;"> You make him to rule over the works of Your hands;</div><div style="text-align: center;"> You have put all things under his feet,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> All sheep and oxen,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> And also the beasts of the field,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> The birds of the heavens and the fish of the sea,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Whatever passes through the paths of the seas.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> O LORD, our Lord,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> How majestic is Your name in all the earth! </div><div align="center">Psalm 8</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><u>Thousand Endless Gifts</u></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">111. Mellow March Moons...the work of HIS fingers</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">112. silent soulful midnight sky </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">113. embracing branches </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">114. whispers long into the night</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">115. dreaming with my favorite dreamer</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">116. yahoo's rhythmic breathing</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">117. murmers of Neverland</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">118. sweaty faces</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">119. tiny feet from beneath the sheets</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">120. kneading purring feline paws </div><div align="center"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-36983096494273608312011-03-18T13:59:00.000-05:002011-03-18T13:59:42.789-05:00Homemade Verses the National Leading Brand!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Last year I discovered homemade laundry detergent. We were on a play date and our friends were doing laundry. Their home smelled so good. She was using her homemade soap to do the laundry. Yeppers...oh, and did it smell goooood. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">She assured me that it was much cheaper and worked just as well.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Then my <a href="http://householdcents.blogspot.com/2010/01/homemade-laundry-detergent.html">Funny Frugal Farmer Friend</a> started telling me about her laundry detergent. She had a couple different recipes. We decided to try one. We went out and bought all the ingredients. We went back and forth on the size of the bucket we needed, and settled on a five gallon one. Then everything sat in a pile on the kitchen counter for a few weeks. It's just the way things work around here sometimes!</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Mac came home from co-op one day all excited. They needed to put together a science experiment. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Mac wanted to test laundry detergent! She wanted to see if the National Leading Brand worked better than the homemade stuff we were hoping to make!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9BSY450leK3IXmJmKZC__9PbyKVmwXdHkC4ffDTUoTDUmCwsoWUCti857dNaR5mAMTMrceDYcyulDziuB8oQevzrWAkBE5M7uG7UB0mHIr5OZyul5F4Y-IinQcaOcTqDBiEdMVqRRHo/s1600/Feb2011+090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW9BSY450leK3IXmJmKZC__9PbyKVmwXdHkC4ffDTUoTDUmCwsoWUCti857dNaR5mAMTMrceDYcyulDziuB8oQevzrWAkBE5M7uG7UB0mHIr5OZyul5F4Y-IinQcaOcTqDBiEdMVqRRHo/s320/Feb2011+090.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This is what she came up with! She used three brand new cotton t-shirts. <br />
She placed four different stains on each shirt:<br />
Mud, <br />
Cran-Lemonade Drink, <br />
Ketchup,<br />
Hot Chocolate!<br />
One shirt she washed in the National Leading Brand. She washed another in a homemade detergent. <br />
She also washed a third shirt in water...nothing added. <br />
For our blog we will just focus on the homemade detergent and the National Leading Brand.<br />
<br />
Homemade before<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6NtUO3SoGDHt-P_n256eFAUbbgRAMk0IzMk3OkP4tcXFpuCtYsFUSRRAYbAFO2Idm-zmR2IHJ0XM1pNPMawe-ezJKRGSwo6itvTszHxxvNW4S_1DKFmBzqhde2f4Qj4unBBwLLBepWo/s1600/Feb2011+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6NtUO3SoGDHt-P_n256eFAUbbgRAMk0IzMk3OkP4tcXFpuCtYsFUSRRAYbAFO2Idm-zmR2IHJ0XM1pNPMawe-ezJKRGSwo6itvTszHxxvNW4S_1DKFmBzqhde2f4Qj4unBBwLLBepWo/s320/Feb2011+013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Homemade After</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmFrYtsrQRmruz1JllmJAkUmUSb3jC0odF-RWeW7wHo9D8SvsepaWSdrUrfMsftkd-0Ohhw432okk7lZBNHs0R8hGvaGijmhFn8M8hXmdiF0pNbRdLwfc2lU2qGNnZJAhE97M9N_sakE/s1600/Feb2011+089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmFrYtsrQRmruz1JllmJAkUmUSb3jC0odF-RWeW7wHo9D8SvsepaWSdrUrfMsftkd-0Ohhw432okk7lZBNHs0R8hGvaGijmhFn8M8hXmdiF0pNbRdLwfc2lU2qGNnZJAhE97M9N_sakE/s320/Feb2011+089.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">National Leading Brand Before:</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieE4VpE9vbbnByJa1dQXXiGbkQ3pzPzoJMac0y-PS4Wmgu2ywFTcesaHvjaADBjJdJ2FJXDO5PKJevvYTDUpWxbAWFelvEPMKbpxVIOC9Ju3OSO-cWGaVGAj2QYYNNWEuzc6ugWi6QVhg/s1600/Feb2011+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieE4VpE9vbbnByJa1dQXXiGbkQ3pzPzoJMac0y-PS4Wmgu2ywFTcesaHvjaADBjJdJ2FJXDO5PKJevvYTDUpWxbAWFelvEPMKbpxVIOC9Ju3OSO-cWGaVGAj2QYYNNWEuzc6ugWi6QVhg/s320/Feb2011+011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">National Leading Brand After</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGIKdT2dlAlhXGCUqX9ZLitk1c8nZNjjvRdQMhcatU5LbD4VDPe6VwdxC3CbSDK0w1bw_v94oPpOg47v5NJFWIyZrvcCSR9D9CaBnNTkHAhp3DHjgb3Yld9xF1KjXsJ_cwuCrCM0hatQ/s1600/Feb2011+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGIKdT2dlAlhXGCUqX9ZLitk1c8nZNjjvRdQMhcatU5LbD4VDPe6VwdxC3CbSDK0w1bw_v94oPpOg47v5NJFWIyZrvcCSR9D9CaBnNTkHAhp3DHjgb3Yld9xF1KjXsJ_cwuCrCM0hatQ/s320/Feb2011+022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">It may be a bit difficult to see in the pics, but the homemade definitely removed the stains better. We were shocked and delighted all at once! If you are interested in trying the homemade detergent yourself, you will find the recipe at <a href="http://householdcents.blogspot.com/2010/01/homemade-laundry-detergent.html">Household Cents</a>!</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-33094342051607038822011-03-14T15:29:00.000-05:002011-03-14T15:29:14.122-05:00First signs of Spring...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXPS3Rg0TTH2cLhbO3DAj0lIUN1icuEYdZwpbkX2CW8DV-E6p0g_GjsTW_pTZekW0G6WLBv0EFmhDidUVW51Q2XGQnPMg8ZbDEss2YlRWb3v9ZU5c3m_kKGVsMMr6IuJbPtIsX4WoaRA/s1600/maenliwheels+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXPS3Rg0TTH2cLhbO3DAj0lIUN1icuEYdZwpbkX2CW8DV-E6p0g_GjsTW_pTZekW0G6WLBv0EFmhDidUVW51Q2XGQnPMg8ZbDEss2YlRWb3v9ZU5c3m_kKGVsMMr6IuJbPtIsX4WoaRA/s320/maenliwheels+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center">We usually think of a few robins flying about.</div><div align="center">Or crocus peeking through the snow.</div><div align="center">But for us, it is a sure sign of spring when the yahoos pull out their favorite vehicles</div><div align="center">and start racing around the front sidewalk.</div><div align="center">There may be bits of snow on the cold ground, </div><div align="center">but that will not stop them!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Thousand Endless Gifts!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">101. yahoos on rollerblades and scooters</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">102. Li shouting that she has seen <a href="http://katnkompany.blogspot.com/2010/05/gypsy-and-her-babies.html">Gypsy!</a></div><div align="center">(another sure sign of spring)</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">103. tiny baby feet</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">104. tiny baby socks</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">105. darkness coming an hour later</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">106. Words that are hard to hear but challenge the heart</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">107. Hershey's Candy Coated Milk Chocolate Eggs!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">108. giggling with a co-worker</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">109. mint green, pale blue, lilac, yellow and pink!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">110. Jelly Bellys!</div><div align="center"><br />
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</div><div align="center"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737693670932009692.post-6059896031161757642011-03-07T19:11:00.000-06:002011-03-07T19:11:13.372-06:00Philippians 4:6-7<div align="center">Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication </div><div align="center"><u><strong>with thanksgiving </strong></u></div><div align="center">let your requests be made known to God. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, </div><div style="text-align: center;">will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff162/annvoskamp/multitudesonmondaysbutton2-1.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><u>Thousand Endless Gifts</u></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">91. old love letters</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">92. old pictures</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">93. musing over memories</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">94. DC Talk</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">95. the hard stuff that draws them in, instead of pushing them away.</div><div style="text-align: center;">(why are we so afraid of the hard stuff?)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">96. tears and repentance...and a new heart</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">97. my dear sisters in Christ</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">98. the unique and gentle voice of a dear friend, and her love for my children</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">99. Mae's arm wrapped around mine</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">100. we are at a hundred, and there are so many more!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03893443085740155072noreply@blogger.com5