tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44953065951208540292024-03-14T02:26:12.707-05:00Created to be HISLearning to be HIS in marriage, motherhood, and ministry.Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.comBlogger492125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-87235868941887108502013-05-15T17:00:00.001-05:002013-05-15T17:00:09.868-05:00Created to be His is moving!For several weeks, I have been working hard on my book about purity. I have been going back through old journals and emails and putting my whole heart on paper. It is strange that in doing that, it led me to finally do what has been brewing under the surface of my blogging heart for a while.<br />
<br />
<i>Created to be His</i> is a beautiful name but where I'm at in my life right now calls for more. And my "more" is the new name for the new blog - <b>where JOY is</b>. Satan is the destroyer of joy. He steals our reason to do as David did and sing songs of praise, even in the midst of emotional hurt or physical pain. If he cannot have our souls, then he will try to devour our happiness and push us lower and lower into a pitiful mess of gloom. But I say, as David did, <i>restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation!</i><br />
<br />
Looking around at what we have become, even in the Church, I am burdened for myself and my fellow sisters. We have lost our joy!<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Single women have no joy in waiting on the Lord's timing for romance.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Married women have no joy in serving and loving their husbands.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mothers have no joy in investing their lives in raising and discipling their children.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Homemakers have no joy in keeping their home and making it a sanctuary for their family.</span></b><br />
<br />
Believe me, even in the middle of long days, exhausting nights, and seasons of waiting <strike>patiently</strike> impatiently for God to move, there is joy. Though I am struggling with you, because the Bible tells us so, I KNOW we have plenty of reasons to sing, dance, shout, and rejoice in who God created us to be. And I choose joy.<br />
<br />
So join me over at <span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://www.wherejoyis.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">where JOY is</a></b></span> and walk with me as the Lord teaches me how to be full-to-the-brim of His joy and how to offer that joy to the lost world in need.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-89181848583759924962013-05-02T09:00:00.000-05:002013-05-02T09:00:00.326-05:00When God Decides to Stretch You<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrnZh1Tt4D8/USaTjxGJY-I/AAAAAAAAEyc/gIC-hdwlD1s/s1600/rubber+band.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrnZh1Tt4D8/USaTjxGJY-I/AAAAAAAAEyc/gIC-hdwlD1s/s320/rubber+band.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MPKubgFnWfU/Tnecg8CkGHI/AAAAAAAAAaY/aHwCdGMHczg/s1600/rubber+band.jpg" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I have not posted in over a month. And there is a good reason for that. We have moved! That's right. And any of you that has ever moved before can attest to the exhaustion and overwhelming emotions that come with packing up a home and leaving. While in the process of packing and leaving, I have also had a great deal of time in the still hours of the night, while feeding my baby, to think and meditate on all the things God uses in life to strengthen our spiritual muscles. To be honest, I have been ashamed of myself at how quickly and easily out of shape my spiritual life can become.<br />
<br />
The day we came home from the hospital, our newest little bundle of joy in our arms, an offer was made on our home.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>The.day.we.came.home.</b></div>
<br />
My husband and I have prayed about building a home for nearly two years. Our little mobile house had become home for us, but we both wanted a more secure place out in the country. We want our kids to live like we grew up - playing outside with the nearest blacktop a couple of miles away. After praying, we decided to put our little place up for sale. If it sold, we would begin building. If not, we would stay put until God moved us. Apparently, after having a "for sale" sign in our yard for over a year, the day had come.<br />
<br />
I should have been thrilled when, after being home less than an hour, we learned our house had sold. Instead I felt a panic. <i>God! </i>I screamed in my head. <i>We just got home! I'm exhausted. I have a new baby AND a toddler. And now I'm supposed to pack up and say goodbye to this cozy little place in a little over one month?!? I don't have it in me, Lord. It's not fair! Why?!?!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">STRETCH</span>.</div>
<i><br /></i>
We began looking at where we would stay while our house was being built. We wanted to save as much as possible but we also wanted to be in a place convenient for my husband's job, our Church, and to allow us time as a family. In an answer to prayer, we were invited to stay with my husband's family for the few months it would take to build our home.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">STRETCH</span></div>
<br />
Now I will say that I am <u>immensely blessed</u> to have wonderful in-laws who have taken me in as their own. They are such a blessing to me. But in my mind, though I was grateful, all I could think about was <i>my home....my "space"....my routine....my privacy....my comfort.</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(<span style="font-size: x-small;">See a pattern?</span>)<br />
<br />
I knew it wouldn't be easy moving into someone else's home. It wasn't going to be a piece of cake in trying to settle myself and my kids in a spot that wasn't "ours." Nothing was going to be simple and comfortable. It was going to take adjusting. It was going to stretch me. No doubt, there would be days when my human nature was going to want to snap.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">STRETCH</span><br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
Have you had a season in your life where you were comfortable? You know what I mean. You and the Lord are walking along, enjoying the smell of the roses. No heavy rain, just sunshine. No fork in the road, just a straight path that goes neither uphill nor downhill.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>It's good. It's easy. It's comfortable.</b></div>
<br />
<i>And sometimes, that is okay! </i>Psalm 23 is an all-too-familiar passage that gives us a picture of comfort. Our Shepherd is leading us through green pastures and still waters. No rough waves to topple us or barren deserts to leave us dry. He is restoring and blessing. There are seasons when the Lord fills our cup with beauty, and moments where our hearts and our minds are at ease. But all too easily, Satan can steal those moments and make it all about our own comfort instead of basking in the sweetness of His presence. It becomes more about <i>us</i> and how much <u>we want to stay</u> walking pleasantly along our simple, easy path. <i>God intends it for rejuvenation and intimacy. Satan uses it to breed selfishness</i>. Then when the Lord leads us to an ascent that calls for muscle, stamina, and grit, we moan and complain and have a pity party.<br />
<br />
....or maybe that's just me.<br />
<br />
Since moving in with my in-laws, I have been reminded of the wonderful grace of God. It seems as though I have been learning lessons on His grace for months now. The transition for me and my children has been unbelievably easy and peaceful and I have been reminded of my shortcomings once again. I was afraid, but <b>why fear when I am ever accompanied by His presence?</b> I was comfortable, but <b>why sink into the muck of ease when there is an opportunity to grow and see the strength of God at work? </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Though my flesh prefers the comfortable path, may my spirit ever live to be stretched (and stretched often!) to remind me of the bigger picture; of the higher purpose; and that in being stretched, I can see the power of Jesus in my life.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Psalm 23:6</i></b><br />
<b><i>"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life..."</i></b></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></div>
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-75195066433349379892013-03-08T11:04:00.001-06:002013-03-08T11:51:36.898-06:00Increasing Your Milk Supply<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGFnIG_p24I/UToNM93ZX8I/AAAAAAAAE20/fndRwso55qE/s1600/tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="186" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGFnIG_p24I/UToNM93ZX8I/AAAAAAAAE20/fndRwso55qE/s320/tea.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://coersfamily.com/2013/01/16/4-tips-for-increasing-breastmilk-supply/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few days ago I mentioned <a href="http://createdtobehis31.blogspot.com/2013/02/lactation-cookies.html" target="_blank">in a post</a> that I could not nurse my first child like I wanted to. So, this time around I made it a point to do all I could to be able to nurse my baby girl. With my first, I assumed I would be able to nurse easily but I learned quick that it is a <u>learned</u> process. It's not an effortless art to everyone. So this time,<i> I set my mind to it, I prayed</i>, and then <i>I turned to the God-given foods and herbs</i> within arm's reach to help me out.<br />
<br />
There are lots of things people say to do. For example:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Nurse often</b>. In the first few weeks especially, your baby will need to suck often. As hard as it is on your body (<i>and your sanity!</i>), you need to let them nurse as much as they want. Why? The more your little one nurses, the more milk you will produce. From one who is less than four weeks in, I will tell you that the days are long and the nights are hard. Sometimes you may feel like all you do is feed your baby, but it will pass. ---<i>and I say this to encourage myself too</i>.<br /> </li>
<li><b>Eat and eat healthy</b>. Breastfeeding moms need an extra 500 calories on top of the 1800-2000 calories they operate on a day. It's been said that if your body is making milk, it is the equivalent of running a marathon! So...we need sustenance. If you're hungry, EAT. And though you can indulge in a milkshake and Dove chocolate, it's important to eat as healthy as possible. Whatever you eat, baby eats.<br /> </li>
<li><b>Pump</b>. Invest in a good pump. Preferably a double electric pump. If you pump after your baby nurses, it will send messages telling your body to produce <i>more</i>. Plus, as you make more milk, you will be able to store it which will allow others to feed your baby and give you a break. Double win. :)<br /> </li>
</ul>
<div>
If you're like me when I had my first, those three things may not be enough. So here are a few more ways to boost your milk supply.</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.traditionalmedicinals.com/product/mother-s-milk-reg?gclid=CKHXnpy2yLUCFQWxnQodUFsAug" target="_blank">Mother's Milk Tea</a> by <i>Traditional Medicinals </i>is something I purchased right before my baby girl was born. It is a sweet and spicy, slightly bitter-tasting tea that is full of herbs like fennel and coriander. Personally, I'm not fond of the taste and so I add honey and lemon to it. But it's worth it and it may be tasty to you.<br /> </li>
<li>As I posted the other day, <a href="http://createdtobehis31.blogspot.com/2013/02/lactation-cookies.html" target="_blank">Lactation cookies</a> are a <u>delicious</u> way to boost your milk supply. Courtesy of <i>Pinterest</i>, and tasty as all get out, these cookies are AH-MAZE-ING.<br /> </li>
<li>If you read my post on <a href="http://createdtobehis31.blogspot.com/2013/02/supplements-and-vitamins-i-took-while.html" target="_blank">pregnancy supplements</a>, you will remember my singing the praises of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Natures-Way-Raspberry-Leaves-Capsules/dp/B000AR8PXW/ref=pd_sim_hpc_1" target="_blank">Red Raspberry Leaves</a>. Along with providing relief for women who have painful or heavy periods, and strengthening the uterus and prepping the body for childbirth, Red Raspberry Leaves also aid in milk supply.<br /> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.vitacost.com/natures-way-fenugreek-seed-180-capsules?csrc=GPF-PA-033674146101&ci_gpa=pla&ci_kw=&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=033674146101&gclid=CLPOs563yLUCFQ6ynQodYEAAQw" target="_blank">Fenugreek</a> capsules is something I tried after my first was born but I think I was too far gone by that time and I gave up. This time, I began taking Fenugreek immediately after my baby girl was born and slowly increased the dosage. Many women claim to see a significant increase in their milk production in the first 24-72 hours!</li>
</ul>
<div>
There is much more you can look into and try. Oatmeal, Blessed Thistle, Alfalfa, papaya, Flax, water, spinach, carrots, Hummus, apricots - there are lots of foods and herbal supplements available that will help us, lactating mothers, produce more! Happy lactating! :)</div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-64525558224916073482013-02-27T13:03:00.002-06:002013-02-27T13:03:53.204-06:00Postpartum Belly WrappingHave you heard of postpartum belly wrapping?? When my oldest was around five months old, I learned about belly binding and was surprised to learn about its history. It's fairly uncommon here in America but the benefits are wonderful! The concept behind belly wrapping is to support the muscles and the skin of a woman's midsection after delivery. If you are a mommy, you know all too well how loose everything is after giving birth. Your body has undergone a massive ordeal and, in the six weeks after delivery, your organs are slowly working to get back into place. And, of course, you have extra skin on your tummy from stretching to accommodate your little darling. Some well-meaning women may tell you that your belly (and body!) will be ruined after having a child. That's not a happy thought... and thankfully it doesn't have to be true.<br />
<br />
Here is a little history:<br />
<br />
<i>"For centuries, Japanese mothers have used their “<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Sarashi</span>” to speed up weight loss and toning of the abdominal muscles and skin after childbirth, while Hispanic mommies believe their “<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">faja</span>” helps bring all the muscles used in the birthing process back together again. No matter what she calls it, women in Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Latin America, Mexico, Spain, England, and the Philippines have benefited from using an abdominal compression wrap after childbirth."</i><br />
<br />
In cultures like those mentioned above, it is actually considered cruel NOT to bind your belly. After reading about the ancient art of belly binding, I decided I would give it a try this time around. To be honest, I am very skeptical of things like this but I've been pleasantly surprised.<br />
<br />
After <i>tons </i>of research and reading lots of reviews, I decided to try the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003330966/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=thmomo09-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003330966%22%3E9%22%20Three%20Panel-Elastic%20Abdominal%20Binder%20&%20Waist%20Trimmer%20Small%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thmomo09-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003330966%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important" target="_blank">9" Three Panel-Elastic Abdominal Binder & Waist Trimmer</a>. It can be overwhelming when you see the many styles and prices out there, but be encouraged that you CAN find a good wrap at a decent price! Some are very expensive! Like I said, I'm skeptical of things like this and I didn't want to spend a lot of money only to be disappointed, so I chose an inexpensive wrap that had good reviews and hoped for the best. May I just say that if the Lord gives us more children, I will ALWAYS wrap my belly after delivery!! I have loved it.<br />
<br />
So what are the benefits of belly wrapping?<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>It helps restore organs and muscles to their original positions.</li>
<li>It reduces the appearance of the belly quicker.</li>
<li>It lessons the likelihood of postpartum depression.</li>
<li>It helps stabilize a woman's mood.</li>
<li>It eases the transition of becoming un-pregnant.</li>
<li>It supports post-birth digestion.</li>
<li>It offers gentle support of the back and stomach.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
Sounds great, doesn't it?</div>
<div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WzdgNeqhBxA/USZg7nDzgaI/AAAAAAAAEwY/gSOHNsrI0TI/s1600/DSCN8694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WzdgNeqhBxA/USZg7nDzgaI/AAAAAAAAEwY/gSOHNsrI0TI/s320/DSCN8694.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">36 hours postpartum <u>without</u> the wrap</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UvObPWGkUQM/USZg8Ucc7XI/AAAAAAAAEwg/DPsP5NGXkRc/s1600/DSCN8695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UvObPWGkUQM/USZg8Ucc7XI/AAAAAAAAEwg/DPsP5NGXkRc/s320/DSCN8695.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">36 hours postpartum <u>with</u> the wrap</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
With my first, I dropped 20 lbs within the first month, but the last 15 lbs I <b>could.not.lose.</b> This time, at two weeks postpartum, I am five pounds away from my pre-<i>second</i>-pregnancy weight! --<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I still have a few more to </i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>get back to my pre-FIRST-pregnancy weight.</i></span> I contribute the weight loss this time to 1) breastfeeding and 2) wrapping my tummy. The wrap has given my back and my abdomen a lot of support and has made me feel <u>extremely</u> less "loose!" In fact, though I still have some flabby skin, my tummy is a lot firmer this time around. I put the wrap on for the first time 36 hours after giving birth. Some say to keep it on 24/7 with the exception of bathing. I, however, do not wear it all day, every day. And I do not sleep in it. It is comfortable, though sometimes it rides up and I have to readjust. So I give myself a break in the evenings. But I have been so very pleased with my purchase.<br />
<br />
If you have never tried it, I highly recommend it!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJI6400wYZ0/US5NRaND9yI/AAAAAAAAE2I/865XjLKjfIU/s1600/DSCN8761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJI6400wYZ0/US5NRaND9yI/AAAAAAAAE2I/865XjLKjfIU/s320/DSCN8761.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2 weeks postpartum (with the wrap)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" /></div>
Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-62366778198783751082013-02-26T14:36:00.003-06:002013-02-27T13:17:31.712-06:00Lactation Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v5CIavD-0_U/US0b1A9-71I/AAAAAAAAEzg/n9DplGnVPbQ/s1600/IMG_9830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v5CIavD-0_U/US0b1A9-71I/AAAAAAAAEzg/n9DplGnVPbQ/s200/IMG_9830.JPG" width="149" /></a><br />
Pinterest deserves my profound gratitude. I discovered this wonderful recipe a few months before baby girl made her appearance and I made the decision immediately that I would try them out.<br />
<br />
With my first child, I couldn't nurse like I wanted to. So I gave up and we went to formula. This time around, I resolved to do everything I could think of to prepare for breastfeeding and to boost my supply. And out of all the things I have done, this is my favorite! ---<i>though that's probably because I am a sucker for a chocolate</i> <i>chip cookie! </i>So for all of you mommies-of-babies out there, here is a delicious recipe for some mouth-watering lactation goodness! Oh and if you are not pregnant, don't worry, this won't make you produce milk. My husband eats them too! ;)<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients</b>:<br />
<br />
<i>1 1/2 c. whole wheat flour</i><br />
<i>1 3/4 c. rolled oats</i><br />
<i>1 tsp baking soda</i><br />
<i>1 tsp salt</i><br />
<i>3/4 c. peanut butter (organic peanut butter is best)</i><br />
<i>1/2 c. butter, softened</i><br />
<i>1 c. ground flax seed</i><br />
<i>3 T brewer’s yeast (can be found online or at your local healthfood store)</i><br />
<i>1/3 c. water</i><br />
<i>1 tsp cinnamon</i><br />
<i>1/2 c. sugar</i><br />
<i>1/2 c. brown sugar</i><br />
<i>1 tsp vanilla</i><br />
<i>2 large eggs</i><br />
<i>2 c. chocolate chips (organic chips are recommended but I didn't have any on hand)</i><br />
<i>1 c. chopped nuts of your choice (I left mine out)</i><br />
<br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
<i>Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in a bowl.
In a large bowl, beat almond butter, butter, sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, brewer’s yeast, flax and water until creamy.
Mix in eggs.
Gradually beat in flour mixture. Mix in nuts and chocolate chips. Slowly mix in oats. Place Tbsp.-sized balls of dough onto greased cookie sheets.
Press down each ball lightly with a fork.
Bake 12 minutes at 350F.
Allow to cool.
Enjoy!
</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-17948448705936903842013-02-21T15:14:00.000-06:002013-02-21T16:08:47.643-06:00Labor and Delivery PlaylistMusic is my language. While preparing for my labor and delivery, I decided to compile a list of songs into a playlist to help me 1) relax, 2) stay focused on Jesus, and 3) calm my fears. I listened to these songs for several weeks leading up to my labor and was encouraged every time I opened my heart to the lyrics. I <u>definitely</u> recommend having songs on hand during the birthing process. Though I only labored for a little over two hours at home before rushing to the hospital (<a href="http://createdtobehis31.blogspot.com/2013/02/birth-story-of-selah-elizabeth.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">read the crazy story here!</span></a>), I was able to listen to a few of these songs on my playlist before we left. When a contraction hit and my response was to tense up and fear the pain, these songs helped keep me calm and steady. Hearing truths in the lyrics of these songs (i.e. <i>be still and know that He is God....faithful God, every need You've met....my Father comforts me....He walks with me where angels fear to tread...</i>) brought comfort to me and reminded my heart that I am His child and I am in His hands.<br />
<br />
Below is my playlist. It's a combination of fast and slow songs. Some instrumentals. Most all of these can be found on iTunes.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Amazing Grace (instrumental) - Josh Wilson </li>
<li>Be Still and Know - Steven Curtis Chapman</li>
<li>Beautiful Baby: Pachelbel's Cannon w/piano and strings - Music for Labor and Delivery</li>
<li>Beulah Land - my grandfather (<a href="http://www.lisembys.com/" target="_blank">www.lisembys.com</a>)</li>
<li>Bless Us and Keep Us - John Waller</li>
<li>Blessed Assurance - Eden Symphony Orchestra</li>
<li>The Blood of Jesus (live) - the Collingsworth family</li>
<li>Bring the Rain - Mercy Me</li>
<li>Dreams - Eric and Leslie Ludy</li>
<li>Edelweiss - Sound of Music soundtrack</li>
<li>Faithful God - Laura Story</li>
<li>Fear Not Tomorrow - the Collingsworth family</li>
<li>Fearfully and Wonderfully Made - Matt Redman</li>
<li>Find You on My Knees - Kari Jobe</li>
<li>God Walks the Dark Hills - Vestal Goodman</li>
<li>Grip of Grace - the Perrys</li>
<li>He's Always Been Faithful - Sara Groves</li>
<li>Here - Kari Jobe</li>
<li>His Burden's Light - Austin's Bridge</li>
<li>His Grace is Sufficient - Mike Bowling Group</li>
<li>Hurt and the Healer - Mercy Me</li>
<li>Hundred More Years - Francesca Battistelli</li>
<li>I Can Trust Jesus - the Collingsworth family</li>
<li>I Look to You - Selah</li>
<li>I Need You More Today - Jeff & Sheri Easter</li>
<li>I Place My Trust in Him - Reggie Lisemby (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/he-guards-my-way-audio/id446655886?i=95189020&mt=2" target="_blank">https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/he-guards-my-way-audio/id446655886?i=95189020&mt=2</a>)</li>
<li>In the Calm - Jennifer Deibler</li>
<li>The Lord is My Shepherd - Keith Green</li>
<li>Nearer My God to Thee - (<a href="http://www.lisembys.com/" target="_blank">www.lisembys.com</a>)</li>
<li>O Lord, Our Strength and Confidence - Ingrid DuMosch</li>
<li>One Desire - Kari Jobe</li>
<li>Only Trust Him - Eden Symphony Orchestra</li>
<li>Perfect Peace - Laura Story</li>
<li>The Potter Knows the Clay - the Perrys</li>
<li>Rise - Kari Jobe</li>
<li>Steady My Heart - Kari Jobe</li>
<li>Sweet Hour of Prayer - Anne Walsh</li>
<li>Take My Life - Kari Jobe</li>
<li>Tell the Mountain - the Collingsworth family</li>
<li>Thou Oh Lord (Psalm 3)</li>
<li>The Well - Casting Crowns</li>
<li>Where Angels Fear to Tread - the Worship Crew</li>
<li>Where Joy and Sorrow Meet - Avalon</li>
<li>While I'm Waiting - John Waller</li>
<li>Yearn - Shane & Shane</li>
<li>Your Grace Still Amazes Me - Phillips, Craig, & Dean</li>
</ul>
<br />
Do you have songs that still your heart and calm your fears? Feel free to share!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-53237564038201067842013-02-17T15:40:00.002-06:002013-02-27T13:17:47.753-06:00Supplements and Vitamins I Took While Pregnant<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I am not a doctor, midwife, herbalist, or anything of the like. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> The information in this post is just that - <u>information</u>. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> This is simply what I have learned and what I tried in my pregnancy. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Do your own research before you take any supplements or herbs.
</i></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QnimkSXUmsU/URU2d6EWjNI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/mGINQaD8XpY/s1600/Herbal-Natural-Supplements1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QnimkSXUmsU/URU2d6EWjNI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/mGINQaD8XpY/s200/Herbal-Natural-Supplements1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Contrary to my first pregnancy, I took a lot of vitamins while pregnant the second time around. In my first pregnancy, I wasn't consistent in taking my prenatals (<span style="font-size: x-small;">probably because I was too consumed with trying to find a way to combat the acne I suffered!</span>). This time, however, I made a vow that I would be religious in taking whatever vitamins and herbal supplements I felt was necessary to make my pregnancy and, more importantly, my <u>delivery</u> as smooth and as healthy as possible. And I'm so glad I did!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Prenatal Vitamins</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: start;">
<br />
For my prenatal, I simply took <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Spring-Valley-Prenatal-Multivitamin-Multimineral/dp/B001QRRI88/ref=pd_sim_hpc_7" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Spring Valley's Prenatal Multivitamin</a>. Later, I also tried the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rainbow-Light-Prenatal-Multivitamin-tablets/dp/B00115BJ30/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1359822123&sr=1-1&keywords=rainbow+light+prenatal" target="_blank">Rainbow Light Prenatal Multivitamin tablets</a>. Next time around, I plan on using Rainbow Light again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Vitamin C</b></span><br />
<br />
Vitamin C is essential for tissue repair, bone growth, healthy skin, and helps your body fight infection. It also helps the body absorb iron and, in pregnancy, it keeps the amniotic sack strong. It is suggested that pregnant women take at least 85 mg of vitamin C per day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="font-size: x-large;">Calcium</b><br />
<br />
Calcium is, of course, essential for bone health, but it also benefits the kidneys, blood pressure, and can even prevent certain type of cancers! When I was little, I developed an allergy to milk, so drinking milk has never been a part of my diet. I would enjoy a little ice cream here, and a few slices of cheese there, but I was always careful not to overdo. As I grew up, I learned how to handle milk products more and more but I never could develop a taste for straight milk. So suffice it to say, Calcium is very important for me to take. In this pregnancy, I found myself craving ice cream, cheese, yogurt, and chocolate milk often and my husband was always intentional in reminding me that I needed as much calcium as possible. I took <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Spring-Valley-Absorbable-Softgels-Serving/dp/B0018DGV1K/ref=sr_1_2?s=hpc&srs=2601169011&ie=UTF8&qid=1359821868&sr=1-2&keywords=spring+valley+calcium" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Calcium</a> supplements every day and allowed myself to indulge (not gorge!) in whatever "calcium cravings" I acquired.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Evening Primrose Oil</span></b><br />
<br />
Once I hit the 37 week mark and was considered full term, I began taking <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Spring-Valley-Evening-Primrose-Softgels/dp/B0013N7SBM/ref=pd_sim_hpc_21" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Evening Primrose Oil</a>. Many midwives and dulas suggest taking Evening Primrose Oil to help prepare the cervix for labor. Some take it before they are full term, but I tend toward the cautious side because the oil has been proven to induce labor in some women. So I began taking one, sometimes two, 500 mg pills a day, beginning at 37 weeks. It took only a little over one week for my cervix to be completely ripe and ready.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Red Raspberry</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
I honestly think this was the most important thing I took. After clearing it with my OB/GYN, I began taking Red Raspberry supplements once I was full term. I chose <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Natures-Way-Raspberry-Leaves-Capsules/dp/B000AR8PXW/ref=pd_sim_hpc_1" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Natures Way Raspberry Leaves</a> and after reading that you can take up to 4500 mg of Red Raspberry a day, I began taking four a day and increased to six a day, taking two at breakfast, two at lunch, and two at bedtime. Red Raspberry has an abundant supply of calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese. Some women use raspberry leaf for painful periods, morning sickness, preventing miscarriage, and easing labor. I had read numerous stories of women who had all-natural births that were easier than previous births and contributed it to red raspberry leaves. I also bought <a href="http://www.traditionalmedicinals.com/product/raspberry-leaf" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Raspberry Leaf Tea</a>. I'm not a big tea drinker, but I enjoyed sipping this tea every day. What Red Raspberry does in pregnancy is prepare and strengthen the uterus for labor. With your uterus stronger, each contraction is able to achieve more. It also helps the uterus clamp down easier and deliver the placenta without much help (massaging, etc). Another benefit of Red Raspberry is that it aids in milk supply, eases postpartum pain, and contributes to the female system in its entirety. Does it sound like I'm a believer?? I am. This was my first all-natural birth and, though painful, it was unbelievably easier than my previous, MEDICATED birth.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Naturally, I give all credit and glory to the Lord for giving me a healthy pregnancy and bringing me through delivery. I'm not putting my trust in Red Raspberry or any other vitamin or herb I took, but I am very thankful for the things God has given us in nature that aid our health and help strengthen our bodies.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-35911217722385134302013-02-12T20:52:00.001-06:002013-02-24T13:43:30.813-06:00Birth Story of Selah ElizabethMy darling girl made her appearance early this morning and my, what a story her birth is! While things are quiet and everything still fresh in my mind, I decided to write down and share the birth story of my little girl, Selah Elizabeth.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j48z0FPTtFs/URr7vu7KmaI/AAAAAAAAEv0/MIQitAFf03M/s1600/13+-+1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j48z0FPTtFs/URr7vu7KmaI/AAAAAAAAEv0/MIQitAFf03M/s1600/13+-+1" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It started Monday night, February 11, 2013. In the space of a week and a half, I had been having Braxton Hix contractions which I thought, at the time, were the real thing. ***<i>A note to future or first-time pregnant ladies</i> - <b>you will know when it's the real thing!</b> With my first baby, my water broke so I had little to no idea what true contractions felt like. I thought I did ....but I did not. After several weeks of BH contractions and constant calls, texts, and emails from anxious friends and family, I felt frustrated with myself that I had had so many nights of false labor. With our families waiting excitedly, on Monday the 11th, I had decided that I was NOT going to breathe a word of a potential contraction until I was completely sure. Monday I spent cleaning our house, doing laundry, and going about my normal "Monday routine." As was normal in my pregnancy, I had a minor backache off and on all day.<br />
<br />
Grant and I went to bed shortly before 10 p.m. My back had a dull ache which was typical, especially after a full day of chores and such. But there was something different this time. No matter what position I tried, I could not get comfortable. I felt restless and my backache slowly increased. At 10:12 p.m. I had my first contraction. I checked the clock and tried to get into a comfortable position to sleep. Ten minutes later, I felt another contraction. Unlike the previous BH, these contractions felt like intense cramps that wrapped around my back and stomach. With my back still aching, I quietly slipped out of bed and started pacing the living room, stretching to see if the achiness would go away. It didn't and I began to notice that those cramp-like feelings were coming every 10-15 minutes. I kept thinking, "<i>Surely this isn't it. I've been wrong so many times. Am I missing something??"</i> I logged into Facebook, hoping my mom was online. She was. :) I told her everything I was experiencing and she answered some questions and gave me tips on what to do and what to look for. My doctor had instructed me to head to the hospital when my contractions began to come 7-8 minutes apart. After an hour and a half of contractions every 10 minutes, I noticed that with each one, I felt pressure on my pelvis. Each one was lasting longer and I was beginning to moan through them. I knew it then. I was in labor. I woke Grant up at 12:12 a.m. and told him what had been going on for the last two hours. I said I was going to take a bath and then begin getting ready to go to the hospital. Twenty minutes later, my contractions dropped from 10 minutes apart, straight to 5 minutes apart and were getting more and more painful. I was confused. My husband, thankfully, was insistent. <b>We needed to leave</b>. <u>Immediately</u>. Barely able to walk to the car, I climbed in and we made our way to the hospital - an hour and fifteen minutes away.<br />
<br />
In less than 20 minutes after leaving our home, I couldn't talk and could barely move due to the pain. The contractions, we discovered, were coming every TWO minutes. We were still far away. My husband, who became my hero all over again, put on the flashers and drove 90-100 mph on the freeway. Half way to the hospital, in a painful and terrified whisper, I told my husband that any hospital would do. My thoughts: <i>just get me to a hospital!! </i>I had hoped to try to deliver naturally this pregnancy. Having had a hard and long delivery with our first child, I wanted to try an all-natural birth this time around. To be honest, I am and always have been a weenie when it comes to pain. I don't have a high pain tolerance. I think in the back of my mind, I believed I <u>couldn't</u> deliver naturally because of that, even though I wanted to. In the car, flying down the interstate, all I could pray for was relief. I kept saying, <i>"Please, just let us make it in time to get the epidural!" </i> After two more indescribable contractions, I felt my body clamp down and I felt the unmistakable urge to push.<br />
<br />
PANIC MODE<br />
<br />
We were still 30 minutes away from our hospital. I told my husband my body was trying to push. I knew we couldn't make it. The north side of town, where we were entering, had another hospital; a branch of "our" hospital. We had to go there. Amazingly, while driving at an incredible speed AND praying for me AND trying to comfort me in my pain, my husband was able to call our hospital and explain that we wouldn't be able to make it. He arranged for us to go to the other, closer hospital.<br />
<br />
At this point, my contractions were coming constantly, with hardly a breaking point long enough to offer me a decent inhaling breath. With each contraction, I felt more pressure to push. Finally, we made it to the hospital. My husband, double parked with flashers on, leaped out of the car, grabbed a wheelchair, and lifted me out of my seat. He brought me to Labor & Delivery and the first thing I (<u>loudly</u>) said was, "<i>Need....epidural</i>!" My nurses, who were so calm and collected, helped me to a bed and, after checking me said, "<i>Okay honey, you are at 10 cm. It's too late for an epidural, its time </i><i>to</i> <i>push</i>." ***insert a wailing "Nooooo!" from me*** All I remember after that is pushing and praying that she would come out healthy...and that I wouldn't die. (<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dramatic, I know, but that's how it I roll while in childbirth</span>). I don't remember how many pushes it took. Somewhere between five and ten. But finally, with a surge of strength from out of nowhere, Selah entered the world at 2:04 a.m. with a beautiful, strong cry, a head full of dark hair, and big blue eyes. It's amazing how aware and in awe of life you become when you hold your little one in your arms. She is a precious, petite princess who weighed 6 lbs, 7 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long. For a little girl who's name means <b>pause, rest & reflect</b>, she sure entered the world exhibiting anything but! :) She was obviously in such a hurry to get here, the doctor couldn't make it in time! But now that she is here, and the delivery is over, she truly is living up to her name.<br />
<br />
I didn't have a choice in terms of pain medication and a great part of me, though the pain was horrible, is glad I didn't. I learned a little more about the strength and power of Jesus Christ being made perfect in our weakness. I learned, from <i>experience, </i>what travail is. I learned a bit more about the amazing work of God's creation and how He designed our bodies. I even remember thinking,<i> Oh God....this pain doesn't even match the pain of sin Jesus suffered on the cross. For me.</i><br />
<br />
I thank you for your prayers. I am feeling tremendous and recovering excellently. In the morning we will go home and begin our lives as a family of FOUR! Please continue to lift us up as we enter a new chapter. May our faithful God receive all the glory. Forever.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-35412019670061974432013-02-09T11:20:00.003-06:002013-02-09T11:20:58.052-06:00The Pregnancy Files | Week 39 | baby #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VaBdeQrcU3w/URaBHlcV6HI/AAAAAAAAEuw/RLKuX3xT3dg/s1600/74130_10152117915110616_860737609_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VaBdeQrcU3w/URaBHlcV6HI/AAAAAAAAEuw/RLKuX3xT3dg/s1600/74130_10152117915110616_860737609_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">38 weeks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In these final days of my pregnancy, I am trying to soak up what has been "normal" since the birth of my first. Today I am 39 weeks and 2 days pregnant. According to my OB, baby girl could quite possibly make her appearance today or tomorrow! That's her prediction and I am quite happy with that opinion! So here are my thoughts and feelings about this pregnancy... for the last time. :)<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>My doctor estimates that baby girl will be about 6 lbs. Petite! :) Everything looks perfectly healthy and normal.<br /> </li>
<li>She has been head down for three weeks which is GREAT!!<br /></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_WxNwMBNzq8/URaBH71pFHI/AAAAAAAAEu4/hQNc6_bOMqQ/s1600/482112_10152119768650616_2104819047_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_WxNwMBNzq8/URaBH71pFHI/AAAAAAAAEu4/hQNc6_bOMqQ/s320/482112_10152119768650616_2104819047_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her room - all ready!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
</ul>
<div>
As for me...</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>I am prepping for labor. I have posts in the making that will explain what I have been doing, what I have been taking, and how it has worked for me.<br /> </li>
<li>I haven't had any new stretch marks this pregnancy, but in these final weeks I have noticed that my former stretch marks have become even more difficult to see. This is good news. What have I been doing? Vitamin E oil and Lavender essential oil.<br /> </li>
<li>Not much swelling. My feet and ankles have swollen occasionally and my fingers are a little swollen, though not <i><u>nearly</u></i> as bad as last time. Epsom salt baths and ingesting apple cider vinegar (with the mother) helps!<br /> </li>
<li>Other than fruit, the only craving I have had in my third trimester has been granola bars.<br /> </li>
<li>I am dilating well. "The time" could be any moment!</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-8340241228881139842013-02-08T12:59:00.001-06:002013-02-08T13:00:15.822-06:00Ideas for Homeschooling Toddlers <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNDJLrvsy0g/URVFy4Zs-7I/AAAAAAAAEtc/U33MdPMzQK0/s1600/IMG_9500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNDJLrvsy0g/URVFy4Zs-7I/AAAAAAAAEtc/U33MdPMzQK0/s320/IMG_9500.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My husband and I plan to home school our children. To be honest, I'm intimidated. I want to do well yet I do not look at myself as a great teacher, but I am trusting God's Word which says I can do <u>all</u> things through His strength. If He says it, I know by His strength I can do it. Although Kindergarten for my eldest is still a few years away, I have been thinking on my plans to teach for quite some time. While praying about the future and asking God, "<i>how am I supposed to do it??</i>" it was as if He spoke to me and said, <b>START NOW</b>.<br />
<br />
Light bulb.<br />
<br />
Of course. I can begin right now teaching my toddler, working our way up while instilling learning skills in him and building confidence in myself. Below are some ways I am beginning to teach Nathan early. Every baby step counts. Every intentional effort made goes a long way.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>One thing we have is the <a href="http://yourbabycanread.com/index.php/your-baby-can-read-deluxe-kit-including-the-bonus-your-child-can-read-dvds.html" target="_blank">Your Baby Can Read</a> Deluxe kit. I will say that we do not do this every day. We have had this for almost a year, Nathan is 22 months old... and he cannot read. However, he recognizes some of the words and he enjoys the DVDs. Also, simply setting a time to sit down with the flash cards and picture books teaches him to 1) sit still, 2) observe what I put in front of him, and 3) work on retaining skills. Repetition helps. I am glad we have the kit, but I would never expect or push others to purchase it as it can be pricey. You can easily create your own version of it.<br /> </li>
<li>I dearly love this adorable <a href="http://www.mardel.com/animal-abcs-write-on-wipe-off-book.aspx" target="_blank">ABC Wipe-Off book</a> I picked up at a Christian bookstore. I love the fact that it is a wipe-off, meaning I can reuse it. And I love how easy and toddler-friendly it is. Nathan has always enjoyed colors and so this helps familiarize him with the ABC's and how to write them.<br /> </li>
<li>Nathan's favorite is his <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fun-with-ABCs-89405-Magnetic/dp/B004OPWQXG/ref=pd_sim_sbs_t_7" target="_blank">Magnetic ABC's</a>. I put them on our refrigerator and he not only likes to take them off and put them back on, but he likes it when I put them in order (A, B, C, D, etc) and when I spell words and names. Again, this is simply getting him familiar with the letters of the alphabet but it is also lots of fun for him!<br /> </li>
<li>Picture books. If you have children, you likely have several children's books. And we all know that children's books are full of pictures. I like to sit with Nathan and read to him. When we look at the pictures, I try to point out every single thing I can think of. (i.e. <i>See the grass? Grass is green. We have grass outside, see?</i> **proceed to window or door). If there is a dog in the picture, I point it out, make the animal sound, try to encourage him to do what I do. Children's picture books are great tools!<br /> </li>
<li>We count. Yes, that's it. Every day we count to ten. I use my fingers and show him how to use his. I count his toes. I count his fingers. We count his shoes and his toys.<br /> </li>
<li>Nathan has this adorable <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Learning-Journey-Match-Who/dp/B003BEDE4Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1360348937&sr=1-1&keywords=who+am+I+match+game" target="_blank">Match Game</a> that he loves. It is simply a three-piece puzzle of a person (police officer, cowboy, soldier, etc) . We do this several times a week. He also has a fabric match game a friend of mine made for him that he enjoys as well.</li>
</ul>
<br />
I am very careful not to push him. Some parents teach their babies to learn big things at early ages. This is completely fine with me, but <i>personally </i>I want <i>my </i>babies to be babies. I don't want to push him so that he grows too fast. The early years are so short. Therefore, we have our toddler school three days a week and it's always in short durations and in basic things (ABC's, 123's, recognizing animals and objects). It isn't much, but it is enough to begin building good learning skills.<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-56797538693876920762013-01-08T17:04:00.001-06:002013-01-08T17:04:26.393-06:00Eye Candy Will Make You SickCan I share something with you that troubles me? Okay, here goes....<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Eye candy.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8yOt00eseI/UOyVG0OefYI/AAAAAAAAEpc/1-xy7vBr278/s1600/zzeyes1-600x426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8yOt00eseI/UOyVG0OefYI/AAAAAAAAEpc/1-xy7vBr278/s200/zzeyes1-600x426.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&tbo=d&rlz=1C1TSNF_enUS472US472&biw=1366&bih=667&tbm=isch&tbnid=CybXFbc5PjpUMM:&imgrefurl=http://www.businesspundit.com/5-ways-to-protect-your-eyes-from-computer-related-strain/&docid=pRuyFwiud2RpxM&imgurl=http://www.businesspundit.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/zzeyes1-600x426.jpg&w=600&h=426&ei=15TsUIaCH--_2QXsmoHADA&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=435&sig=109215332900223383805&page=2&tbnh=138&tbnw=194&start=29&ndsp=29&ved=1t:429,r:57,s:0,i:265&tx=89&ty=33" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yes, that's right. <i>Eye candy</i>. <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> is all the rage right now and, I will admit, I am a fan. I love learning new tips and tricks to better my home, my health, and finding fun activities to try with my kiddo. But I get disturbed when I see tweens, teens, young ladies, and - yes - <i>married </i>women pin pictures of male celebrities onto their boards. <span style="font-size: x-small;">----</span> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Mind you, I'm talking about <u>Christian</u> girls and women.</b></span><br />
<br />
Remember when your Mom would say, "<i>No more candy. It will give you a tummy ache</i>"? We were taught from an early age that eating too much junk food was bad for us and could make us sick. It's definitely true! Too much candy = bad health. Too much junk food = low energy and an all-around BLEH-feeling! Now let's apply that spiritually.<br />
<br />
Spiritually, ANY and all "junk food" makes us sick. It erodes our soul. It drains us of spiritual stamina. It puts our focus on earthly, carnal things instead of heavenly things. Keep in mind <b>sin most always starts with the eyes.</b> We see it. We want it. We take it. The Bible calls it the "lust of the eyes." (<span style="font-size: x-small;">1 John 2:16</span>)<br />
<br />
You may be thinking, "<i>Okay I see what you're saying, but I'm just pinning a picture of a good looking guy! No harm, no foul.</i>"<br />
<br />
I beg to differ.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you are single</span>, this harms your perception of marriage and devalues men in general. Think about it. Take a second and picture your future husband pinning pictures of ultra-"gorgeous" female celebrities onto his Pinterest board. Picture him gawking and drooling over the skinny, barely clad, airbrushed models that he tags as "sexy" and "delicious." Would it bother you? Intimidate you? Hurt you? Make you feel less than perfect? <i>Likewise</i>. If you fill up your eyes and your mind with "eye candy" you will have little room for good, healthy, Biblical precepts. Proverbs 31:10 asks the question, "<b><i>Who can find a virtuous woman?</i></b>" In verse 12, it says that she (this virtuous woman) does her husband "<b><i>good and not evil <span style="font-size: large;">all </span>the days of her life</i></b>." Let me ask you. Is it <u>virtuous</u> to store up man candy, even while single? Is it doing your future husband <u>good</u>? Are you preparing yourself to be a noble and Godly wife while filing away images of "hot men" that you can (<span style="font-size: x-small;">and no doubt will, as is tempting for us to do</span>) compare him to? Think about it, girls. Be wise!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you are married</span>, this is a slap to your husband. In Matthew 5:27-28, Jesus talks about adultery and says some strong words. He said that if a man looks at a woman and lusts after her, he has already committed adultery in his heart. <i>That goes for us, too!</i> Wow...talk about serious! Proverbs 5:15 instructs husbands to "<b><i>Drink waters out of thine own cistern</i></b>..." What does that mean? It means <u>stick with your own wife.</u> And in like manner WE should stick with our own husbands, not only physically by not committing literal adultery, but in every way! Bring your husband honor by regarding him as the only lover of your heart and the only "candy" your eyes indulge in. Build your house, ladies. Don't pluck it down by foolishly allowing your eyes to drink in the shirtless, seductive-posing Hollywood celebs that you are <i>not </i>married to.<br />
<br />
It all goes back to purity. Purity is more than being physically abstinent. It's so much more! And, believe you me, impurity has a knack for knocking down a single young person, and utterly pulverizing a marriage.<br />
<br />
Simply put: <i>Eye candy will make you spiritually sick.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-30110204438576475992013-01-07T15:07:00.000-06:002013-01-07T15:07:16.685-06:00Prepping for Baby!Today I thought I would show you how the nursery is coming along! Earlier this week, my husband and I took down all of our Christmas decor and I did a massive cleaning job on our house. We also....... **drum roll** ......PUT HER BED TOGETHER!!! This is a personal victory of mine since I have been wanting to set up her bed for over a month now. Below are some "before and after" pictures of her bedroom. It isn't completely finished yet, but it is well on its way!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
BEFORE:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The room was, first, our study/office.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_3BQJsaoh_0/UONSP1L51wI/AAAAAAAAElo/LtJVrs5_P5o/s1600/30202_430361920615_5482856_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_3BQJsaoh_0/UONSP1L51wI/AAAAAAAAElo/LtJVrs5_P5o/s320/30202_430361920615_5482856_n.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;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yMCgM0fdNuU/UONSQzK7UKI/AAAAAAAAElw/VMW23_RO6a8/s1600/30202_430361930615_2566718_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yMCgM0fdNuU/UONSQzK7UKI/AAAAAAAAElw/VMW23_RO6a8/s320/30202_430361930615_2566718_n.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
AFTER: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The doorway</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HPpcxxCjciM/UONRmoZoZ0I/AAAAAAAAElA/dlE6rZ4xASY/s1600/DSCN8427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HPpcxxCjciM/UONRmoZoZ0I/AAAAAAAAElA/dlE6rZ4xASY/s320/DSCN8427.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View from the door</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1lCAje6Y9E/UONRvEbB7ZI/AAAAAAAAElI/KgCFXg7iLbM/s1600/DSCN8428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1lCAje6Y9E/UONRvEbB7ZI/AAAAAAAAElI/KgCFXg7iLbM/s320/DSCN8428.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;">
View from her bed</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rxi5sY6ITdA/UONR5LOEUVI/AAAAAAAAElQ/Zlcx5JOzH60/s1600/DSCN8429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rxi5sY6ITdA/UONR5LOEUVI/AAAAAAAAElQ/Zlcx5JOzH60/s320/DSCN8429.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ruGgsBmpmp0/UONSETpSQkI/AAAAAAAAElY/EaOhyZ0qbCM/s1600/DSCN8430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ruGgsBmpmp0/UONSETpSQkI/AAAAAAAAElY/EaOhyZ0qbCM/s320/DSCN8430.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;">
A beautiful painting</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CUSoAplxMyI/UONSPDVwAQI/AAAAAAAAElg/wlEakRP21As/s1600/DSCN8431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CUSoAplxMyI/UONSPDVwAQI/AAAAAAAAElg/wlEakRP21As/s320/DSCN8431.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;">
<br /></div>
Obviously, we don't have her bedding in yet and we haven't brought in the swing and infant bouncer from storage, but you can see how it is coming along. Only a few weeks left!!!<br />
<br />
<i>HURRY little bit!!!! I want to see you!!!</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-75915444333771696372013-01-03T11:30:00.001-06:002013-01-03T11:30:28.719-06:00The Pregnancy Files | Week 34 | baby #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEH-hBU_hlM/UOW8JmlfoRI/AAAAAAAAEmg/HlB77rh52rc/s1600/IMG_8934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEH-hBU_hlM/UOW8JmlfoRI/AAAAAAAAEmg/HlB77rh52rc/s320/IMG_8934.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">32 1/2 weeks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Today I am 34 weeks preggo! --- I know I haven't been very diligent in taking pictures of my growing abdomen. I plan to take a new picture today. In a little while, I will head to my OB appointment where I will get an update on how my little one is doing. From what I can tell, she is...*ahem*....<u><i>growing</i></u>. And she seems to be very, very, very energetic. Here is the latest:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The average weight and length of a baby at this point is about 5 lbs and 18 inches. She may be smaller, she may be bigger, but she is somewhere along that line.<br /> </li>
<li>Her fingernails are completely formed and growing. Best make sure the fingernail clippers are within arm's reach.<br /> </li>
<li>She can recognize songs, voices, and various other sounds. How neat!</li>
</ul>
<br /><ul>
</ul>
<div>
As for me...</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>I....can't....breathe. It takes focus to take a full, deep breath.<br /> </li>
<li>Sleep is becoming an adventure. At bedtime (no matter what time of night that may be), I either cannot get comfortable or she decides she wants to play in my rib cage or turn cartwheels. I'm in for quite a wild ride...<br /> </li>
<li>Itching. Itching. Itching. Thankfully, loading up on lotion and taking cool baths help. It isn't nearly as awful as my first. But who enjoys itching with little to no relief??? <b>Not me</b>.<br /> </li>
<li>No swelling....yet. I'm praying it never comes, honestly.<br /> </li>
<li>No leg cramps. No <u><i>new</i></u> stretch marks. No varicose veins. And no heartburn. That is goooood.<br /> </li>
<li>My appetite has been strange with this pregnancy. First it was nonexistent. Then it came back with a force. Now, it's like, "<i>Eat? Eh....okay, I guess</i>." I haven't had a craving in.... I don't remember when. Odd.<br /> </li>
<li>I am beginning to feel Braxton Hicks contractions. That's exciting.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br />That's all for now. I need to scoot off to my next appointment. I want to hear the heartbeat again!</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-12745503967713528912013-01-01T13:56:00.000-06:002013-01-03T12:18:21.258-06:00My Savior Leads MeFanny Crosby wrote in her beautiful hymn,<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>All the way my Savior leads me;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>What have I to ask beside?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Can I doubt His tender mercy,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Who through life has been my Guide?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here by faith in Him to dwell!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>For I know, whate’er befall me,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Jesus doeth all things well;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>For I know, whate’er befall me,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Jesus doeth all things well.</i></div><em style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</span></em><br />
<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHvlqaWS-3k/UOI4RXa7YrI/AAAAAAAAEiA/X0vKQQVDbKM/s1600/footprints_in_the_sand_op_493x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHvlqaWS-3k/UOI4RXa7YrI/AAAAAAAAEiA/X0vKQQVDbKM/s200/footprints_in_the_sand_op_493x600.jpg" width="164" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?start=210&hl=en&sa=X&tbo=d&rlz=1C1TSNF_enUS472US472&biw=1366&bih=667&tbm=isch&tbnid=4Bu4yV2m9CrwXM:&imgrefurl=http://eyobberhane56.wordpress.com/2011/04/21/the-high-price-of-discipleship/&docid=WvOayO02csJezM&imgurl=http://eyobberhane56.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/footprints_in_the_sand_op_493x600.jpg%253Fw%253D246%2526h%253D300&w=246&h=299&ei=DTjiUKuCAcGnrAHf14DIBg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=817&vpy=294&dur=1722&hovh=239&hovw=196&tx=111&ty=124&sig=109215332900223383805&page=8&tbnh=140&tbnw=115&ndsp=39&ved=1t:429,r:15,s:200,i:49" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">2012 was a year that, for me, held both sorrow and great triumph. Like Dickens wrote, "<i>It was the best of times</i>..<i>.it was the worst of times</i>." The Lord granted us a sweet, soon-to-arrive little girl and so many other blessings! He gave us memories that I will cherish forever. He is, indeed, a GOOD God. And yet in the midst of beauty, He also allowed us to walk in the darkness. Sometimes I was afraid. Some moments I was angry. Other times, I could only sit and cry and ask God the question we always seem to ask - "WHY??"</span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">If I could sum up 2012 - personally - it would be, </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; line-height: 19px;">He led</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">I</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">n life, there will be days when we walk through valleys and deserts where, quite frankly, our spirit and even our flesh cries out in agony. Other days we will walk on mountain tops where we are high above all the trouble and pain and heartache that seem to cover the world we live in. But still He leads. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Our great Savoir is far above all that we can see or think and He has more than we can ever imagine in His plan for our lives. He calls us to follow Him. And though our typical, Christian answer is to say, "<i>Yes, Lord, we will follow You</i>," our actions rarely obey the call. <b>He calls us higher</b>. He calls us to trust Him. He asks us to let Him lead. He may take us through deserts where we feel nothing but dry, desert sand that leaves us panting with thirst. He may take us through dangerous storms that threaten to plummet us. He may lead us through darkness so thick that we wonder if we will ever see light again. Up and down, twists and turns, darkness and sunshine.... sometimes it may look as though we will never reach "the end." But if there one thing I have learned, and will no doubt continue to learn, in 2012 it is that our great Shepherd leads <i>all the way</i>. And He leads well. He truly never forsakes. The pain that we experience in doing His will is so very little in </span></span><span style="line-height: 19px;">comparison</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"> to the pain of not trusting the Master's voice. The fear we may feel in following Him is only a little shadow that He can rebuke with one word. As Fanny Crosby wrote, </span></span><i>For I know, whate’er befall me, </i><i>Jesus doeth all things well. </i><b>All things.</b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Regardless of the past, I pray that this year - in 2013 - you and I will both answer His call to <i>daily die to self, pick up our cross, and follow Him</i>. One year from now, when we look back on 2013, I pray we can say that He led us...and He is still leading. L</span></span>et us then let Him lead us....all the way.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-21347446874484076442012-12-31T21:13:00.000-06:002012-12-31T21:14:42.505-06:00Looking Back on 2012<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText3">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Our 2012 Newsletter, plus more!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ERn9C8STB8o/UOJPyZNIpjI/AAAAAAAAEio/9xyxkPuuffY/s1600/10dca805-dc70-4413-b6e5-728d75338bbbwallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ERn9C8STB8o/UOJPyZNIpjI/AAAAAAAAEio/9xyxkPuuffY/s640/10dca805-dc70-4413-b6e5-728d75338bbbwallpaper.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; language: en-US; line-height: 98%; mso-ansi-language: en-US;">This year was a busy and eventful year for us, with many challenges and opportunities. Grant and I have learned so much about relying on the Lord’s strength this year, and He has done some incredible things in our personal lives, as well as in our family as a whole. We began 2012 keeping very busy with revivals, concerts, and retreats at Psalms Camp. We made many new friends, saw the Lord work in people's hearts, and enjoyed sweet fellowship with likeminded saints. In March, I was able to meet one of my role models, Joyce Rogers, who came to Psalms Camp for a Ministry Wives retreat. I was (and still am!) powerfully impacted by that weekend. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">In April, we celebrated our Nathan's 1st birthday, then our second anniversary a few days later. Shortly after that, we said "goodbye" to Grant's grandmother as she ended her long battle with cancer. Then at the end of April, we welcomed a sweet little niece into the world and became an aunt and an uncle for the first time!</span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">Along with concerts and revivals, we were able to make many memories with Nathan, including taking him to the Zoo for the first time and introducing him to the swimming pool! </span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; language: en-US; line-height: 98%; mso-ansi-language: en-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span lang="en-US"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">In the summer, I was </span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 14px;">privileged</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"> to sing at one of our dear friends' wedding and watched the Lord prove Himself faithful once again. On June 12, after several months of watching and praying, I discovered I was pregnant with our second child! We rejoiced then, as we do now, for the little life that will soon arrive this upcoming February! The summer was very busy, with Camps, a business trip for Grant, and a family vacation to the beach in Alabama. As the summer wore on, we</span></span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"> felt the Lord leading us to stop our traveling and devote more time to growing our Church and Grant's prison ministry. It was a difficult decision to make - one that only God could orchestrate - but we praise God for His peace and His leadership in our lives, and for what He has been doing since. Grant regularly goes into a nearby prison to mentor some of the inmates there, and both of us go in to sing and preach often. Grant has begun training for his CRA (</span><span lang="en-US">Certified Religious Associate</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">) license which will enable him to go freely into the prison units and barracks to minister more. He is also filling in pulpits when needed, is actively involved in ministries at our Church,</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"> and is also the director of the </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; line-height: 98%;">Celebrate Recovery </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">program that will lead many brothers and sisters into freedom from addictions, and into closer fellowship with Christ.</span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">As for me, I am currently the Children’s Church director at our Church and have been as involved as my pregnancy has allowed me to be in working with the children there. It has been a huge blessing to help mold a future generation and I am enjoying it immensely! I am also involved in our Church's </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; line-height: 98%;">Women on Mission</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"> ministry. Missions has always been one of my passions and I am enjoying being able to serve and help others. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">Along with that, I am hard at work trying to complete my book on purity. I ask for your prayer as I try to finish it soon. With my home, my husband, a toddler, a soon-to-be-born baby, and our Church, it leaves me precious little time to myself, but I am trusting that it will all come together "in His time."</span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span lang="en-US"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">Our Nathan is currently 20 months old and growing like a weed. He is an adventurous ball of energy and enjoys running around and talking. He loves music, story time, Veggie Tales, animals, and playing outdoors. We are praying that he will come to know Jesus at an early age and Grant and I both covet your prayers as we </span><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 14px;">endeavor</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"> to train him up and point him to the Lord.</span></span> </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">What’s next for us?</span></span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Kristen ITC"; font-size: 20.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Kristen ITC"; mso-default-font-family: "Kristen ITC"; mso-latin-font-family: "Kristen ITC";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span lang="en-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; language: en-US; line-height: 98%; mso-ansi-language: en-US;">Obviously, our biggest piece of news is our upcoming addition to our family! Sometime around February 14, 2013, we will be welcoming a sweet little girl, whom we have named, <i>Selah Elizabeth Lee</i>, into our arms. It is hard to believe that we will soon have another little one to cuddle and love on, but we cannot wait! Be lifting me up as I prepare to deliver in a few short weeks. Along with a new baby, </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">2013 will mark Grant's and my third anniversary and Nathan’s 2nd birthday, for which we are so very thankful! Also, Lord willing and Lord providing, we will begin the process of building a home in 2013. Above all, we just want "more" - to be more for Jesus, do more for Jesus, and have more of Jesus.</span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;">Praying all of you have a blessed 2013!</span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 98%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText3" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-justify: newspaper; text-justify: newspaper; text-kashida-space: 50%; text-kashida-space: 50%;">
</div>
<h2 style="margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 7.5pt; margin-right: 7.5pt; margin-top: 7.5pt; mso-pagination: none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><i><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">Habakkuk 3:19<br />
The LORD</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"> </span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.</span></i></span></h2>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-24497587266697001742012-12-18T11:59:00.002-06:002012-12-18T12:09:53.424-06:00Santa Claus and Jesus ChristFor some Christian parents, there is difficulty in trying to juggle Santa Claus and the story of Jesus at Christmastime. <i>Do we leave out Santa? Do we add more Jesus? Do we ditch Santa Claus?? *</i>collective gasp!*<br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b1aKmUN37dw/UNCoZUFjZaI/AAAAAAAAEhY/VR8WPsfT-dM/s1600/santa+baby+jesus1-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b1aKmUN37dw/UNCoZUFjZaI/AAAAAAAAEhY/VR8WPsfT-dM/s200/santa+baby+jesus1-300x300.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&sa=X&tbo=d&rlz=1C1TSNF_enUS472US472&biw=1366&bih=667&tbm=isch&tbnid=YSdJGV_rNOpCPM:&imgrefurl=http://www.sothbchurch.org/%3Fattachment_id%3D438&docid=WixWJxD3a0J2vM&imgurl=http://www.sothbchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/santa%252Bbaby%252Bjesus1-300x300.jpg&w=300&h=300&ei=GKLQUPrUNPGFyQGXvIHwCQ&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=4&vpy=153&dur=1088&hovh=225&hovw=225&tx=104&ty=111&sig=109215332900223383805&page=1&tbnh=151&tbnw=151&start=0&ndsp=23&ved=1t:429,r:0,s:0,i:105" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Simply put: <b>Can Santa Claus and Jesus co-exist?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Growing up, my parents didn't teach me and my sisters about Santa Claus. Sure, we were allowed to watch the classic "Rudolph" each year and sing "<i>Here Comes Santa Claus</i>" but we were taught at an early age that a big jolly man in a red suit does <i>not </i>enter our house each Christmas and leave gifts for us. We didn't put out milk and cookies or carrots for the reindeer. There wasn't the belief that we were seen while we were sleeping and watched while we were awake by a man in the North Pole who has the power to leave us presents or coal, depending on how good we were. <span style="font-size: large;">Please do not misunderstand me. I'm not throwing stones</span>; <span style="font-size: large;">only sharing with you how I was raised</span>. And in my raising, I learned some wonderful lessons. Christmas was more about family and celebrating Jesus' birth. There was no "<i>here's the story of Jesus....now let's get ready for Santa!</i>" It was just...<b>all </b>about Jesus. Now, I am not saying that if you raise your children to believe in Santa Claus, that you are doing a wrong thing. I am only sharing with you a conviction of ours and reasons behind this conviction. We are all accountable to God by how we raise our children. This is how we are raising ours.<br />
<br />
My little boy is an avid lover of Veggie Tales and in purchasing their video "<i>Saint Nicolas: A Story of Giving</i>" I was very skeptical and curious. To my delight, the Veggies did a pretty decent job of telling the true story of Nicholas, yet making it all about Jesus. So <b>can they co-exist? I suppose they can</b>. But I also think <span style="font-size: large;">it is very, very, very important to tell our children the truth</span> and to, above all, keep their focus on Christ and the beautiful gospel story. God's Word says that Jesus is the truth (<span style="font-size: x-small;">John 14:6</span>) and His truth will make us free (<span style="font-size: x-small;">John 8:32</span>). For us, we will tell our children the truth and also use that opportunity to share the gospel with them. For instance...<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>There is no Santa Claus watching our every move. There <i>is</i>, however, a holy God who holds the universe together (<span style="font-size: x-small;">Colossians 1:17</span>) and who sees even the smallest sparrow fall (<span style="font-size: x-small;">Matthew 10:29</span>).<br /> </li>
<li>Being "good" all year does not mean we deserve gifts at Christmastime. According to Romans 3:10, there is "none good; no not one." We should teach our children that our good works are not deserving of presents and blessings. Only through His blood and His salvation are we given "every good and perfect gift" (<span style="font-size: x-small;">James 1:17</span>), and "all spiritual blessings" (<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ephesians 1:3</span>).<br /> </li>
<li>We do not celebrate Christmas with a bearded man, flying reindeer, and lots of elves. We celebrate Christmas as the moment in time when God looked down and saw us destitute and in need, and became one of us so that we might be saved! And because of that great miracle, we, like the shepherds, should glorify and praise God for His unspeakable gift! That is far more exciting and joyous than North Pole fun.<br /> </li>
<li>Christmas is not about getting. It is about the joy of giving. We give because God "so loved" that "He gave." Being His children and His people, we should follow the example of our God by loving and giving just as He did. It's important to teach children to give.... and WHY we give. Instead of spending half the year making a list of all the things they want, we should teach them to make a list of ways they can give and be a blessing to others.<br /> </li>
</ul>
<div>
My parents received lots of flack for not "doing" Santa for me and my sisters and already my husband and I are beginning to hear little negative comments on our decision to raise our children with the truth. That's not to say we don't enjoy watching "Polar Express" and other Christmas movies that are about jolly old St. Nick. But it's all fun and it is - and always will be - made known that it is only fun and make believe. There is no "magic"...but there IS power and glory which comes straight from heaven through Jesus Christ and the truth of the blessed and wonderful Christmas story.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-72870362781915640032012-12-17T15:14:00.001-06:002012-12-17T15:14:38.116-06:00Making Christmas Memories with your ToddlerWith little Nathan at 20 months, it is much more fun this year as we celebrate Christmas. He is curious, anxious and, if I'm reading "toddler" correctly, he senses all the excitement in the air.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HrYDvwv-Ii8/UM-G0wZA1YI/AAAAAAAAEgw/YgXHAEMlynI/s1600/281344_10152018779790616_1204979730_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HrYDvwv-Ii8/UM-G0wZA1YI/AAAAAAAAEgw/YgXHAEMlynI/s320/281344_10152018779790616_1204979730_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you are a new parent or in need of a few ideas for Christmas traditions, below are 5 ideas to add a little more fun to this wonderful season!<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>Decorating the Tree. </b>Maybe it came from my mother, but setting up and decorating the Christmas tree is a big deal to me. I always have Christmas music playing and each of us - as a family - put our ornaments on the tree. This year, little Nathan hung his own "Baby's 1st Christmas" ornament from last year. My husband hung ornaments from his childhood and so did I. It's a special tradition we share.<br /><b> </b></li>
<li><b>Christmas movie night. </b>I love Christmas movies. Each year, I buy one new holiday film to add to our collection. This year, Nathan and I had a special night where we watched <i>Polar Express</i> with milk and cookies! Each year we, as a family, sit down with <i>The Nativity Story.</i> Maybe you will want to make <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Grinch-Punch" target="_blank">Grinch punch</a> and watch <i>How the Grinch Stole Christmas </i>or possible make <a href="http://notsohumblepie.blogspot.com/2009/12/festive-snowflake-sugar-cookies.html" target="_blank">snowflake cookies</a> while viewing <i>White Christmas</i>. Movie nights are always fun and special.<br /> </li>
<li><b>View Christmas lights. </b>This Christmas, we plan to take an evening and go for a drive to view the Christmas lights. Do some research and find a place to go! Some towns have their own little village/community where they host a Christmas light display! Children always love it.<br /><b> </b></li>
<li><b>A Christmas Eve breakfast. </b>On my Dad's side of the family, we always celebrate Christmas Eve with a big breakfast. All the aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents come together and we cook a festive and hearty breakfast each and every Christmas Eve. Among all the food, one significant tradition of ours is always fried cheese and salmon. But make it your own! Maybe your breakfast is chocolate chip pancakes in the shapes of Christmas trees. Or <a href="http://www.thecurvycarrot.com/2011/10/09/baked-apple-spice-oatmeal/" target="_blank">apple spice oatmeal</a>. Use your imagination!<br /> </li>
<li><b>Explaining Christmas gifts. </b>Children are very interested in the wrapped packages under the tree. Nathan has thoroughly examined the bows and the ribbons. It's important - even at his young age - to explain WHY we give gifts. Christmas is not about receiving toys and clothes and goodies. It's about GIVING...because <i>God so loved, He gave.</i> Begin a tradition where you sit down with your children and explain gift giving to them. Then help them come up with a special gift to give to others.</li>
</ol>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-3210557953275965242012-12-07T20:41:00.001-06:002012-12-07T20:41:31.665-06:00The Pregnancy Files | Week 30 | baby #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JQtR3zfxGV0/UMKmFegm6XI/AAAAAAAAEf0/KepLUo8aBow/s1600/76428_10152007041455616_977424777_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JQtR3zfxGV0/UMKmFegm6XI/AAAAAAAAEf0/KepLUo8aBow/s320/76428_10152007041455616_977424777_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here I am at 30 weeks! My Nathan was born at 39 weeks, so the knowledge of how close I am to little miss Selah's arrival is unreal! Here's what's happening with us!<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>She is about the size of a cucumber, roughly weighing around 3 lbs.<br /> </li>
<li>Her brain is growing daily AND she can regulate her own body's temperature.<br /> </li>
<li>She is strong enough to grasp a finger.<br /> </li>
</ul>
<div>
As for me...</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>After enduring the grueling three-hour glucose test, the results came back negative. No Gestational Diabetes for this momma!<br /> </li>
<li>I'm uncomfortable and easily tired. But honestly, that is completely understandable seeing how I have a little person growing in my abdomen and I'm chasing after a toddler every day.<br /> </li>
<li>Itching. Oh.no. With Nathan, I had SEVERE itching moments. I even remember breaking my skin at one point. Thankfully, I learned a little from then and have been loading up on the lotion!<br /> </li>
<li>I haven't had heartburn, which I contribute to not eating late at night and drinking Ionized water.</li>
<li>Unlike my first pregnancy, I haven't had one single leg cramp. This is awesome news. :)</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
This weekend, I am working in her room and planning for things to be done after Christmas is over. Please continue praying for me and for little Selah; that we will be healthy, strong, and that the Lord will be glorified every day.</div>
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-34340675429379498482012-11-08T12:17:00.001-06:002012-11-08T12:17:15.167-06:00Pumpkin PancakesYesterday I made something new and seasonal. <span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin pancakes</span>. Let me just say with a heavenly sigh, <b><u>YUM</u></b><span style="font-size: large;">. </span>I now consider it my duty to share with you this fantastic recipe!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Warning</b><i> - These are so delicious that you will have to make them again and again!</i></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E3YESZETwgQ/UJqitPk3zQI/AAAAAAAAEbI/yEByvzAi4U0/s1600/554041_10151967049900616_577149781_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E3YESZETwgQ/UJqitPk3zQI/AAAAAAAAEbI/yEByvzAi4U0/s320/554041_10151967049900616_577149781_n.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pumpkin Spice Pancakes</span><br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.454545021057129px; margin-top: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/4 C all purpose flour</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 Tablespoons brown sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2 tsp baking powder<br />1/4 tsp salt<br />3/4 tsp cinnamon<br />1/4 tsp nutmeg<br />dash ground ginger<br />1 C milk<br />1/2 C pumpkin puree (I used pumpkin pie filling)<br />1 Large egg<br />2 Tablespoons oil or butter</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">These pancakes do not need syrup. I sprinkled a little cinnamon and sugar on top and I had some fresh sugared pecans that I added as garnish (such a fun word to say!).</span><br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.454545021057129px; margin-top: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So in the words of my sister: <b>Mix - Cook - Devour!</b></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-51126338963949469462012-11-07T11:53:00.002-06:002012-11-07T11:56:53.409-06:00Election 2012 || A Conversation with GodI did not vote for Barack Obama. As the results came in last night, I felt my heart slowly sinking. I'm going to be honest, I was <strike>not happy</strike> angry. I was upset. I literally cried (<span style="font-size: x-small;">call it pregnancy hormones</span>). Some have said, "<i>Get a grip! It's <u>over</u>. Quit mourning!</i>" Really? I think America has just cause to mourn. I think we SHOULD have mourned long ago for the state of our nation. The election is over, yes, but that does not mean that the children of God should shut up and "get over it." Our country needs help and I think it's good that many are speaking up, completely and soberly aware of the situation we are in. Personally, I am praying this leads to a massive revival of God's people. It ought to...<br />
<br />
To be clear, I don't think Mitt Romney was outstanding. People hailed him as some kind of savior and maybe that's where the conservatives messed up. Who knows? But I voted for him because he would have been FAR better than the socialist view of our current president. I could vent a lot, but I won't. However, I'm going to give you a conversation I had with the Lord last night and this morning. When things do not go as we want, <span style="font-size: large;">it is comforting</span> to know that no matter what our thoughts say, Jesus always has an answer that brings peace!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7aI1jRxP8sQ/UJqggK-Mz6I/AAAAAAAAEbA/RbM5Wh1gph0/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7aI1jRxP8sQ/UJqggK-Mz6I/AAAAAAAAEbA/RbM5Wh1gph0/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
My thoughts: <i>God, how could this happen??</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
His Truth: <b>I have made all things for myself: yea, even the wicked. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Proverbs 16:4</span><b>) I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Isaiah 45:7</span><b>). For the kingdoms are mine: and I am the governor among the nations. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Psalm 22:28</span><b>)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i>My thoughts: <i>You are in control, Lord. But oh how I wanted a different outcome!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
His Truth: <b>My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Isaiah 55:8</span><b>)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My thoughts: <i>Lord, I know Your Word says this world is only going to get worse before You return, but why can't I experience a little of the America my parents and grandparents had?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
His truth: <b>See that you are not troubled: for all these things must come to pass. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Matthew 24:6</span><b>) For this cause have I raised you up, to show My power; and that My name may be declared throughout all the earth. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Exodus 9:16</span><b>) Fret not because of evildoers. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Psalm 37:1</span><b>)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b>My thoughts: <i>But Father, what about my children? How can I raise them for Your work and Your glory in a world so evil?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
His truth: <b>My grace is sufficient for you: for My strength is made perfect in your weakness. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">2 Corinthians 12:9</span><b>) I will keep you in perfect peace if your mind is stayed on Me. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Isaiah 26:3</span><b>) My peace I give unto you: not as the world gives. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">John 14:27</span><b>)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b>My thoughts:<i> Oh Lord, will You remove Your Spirit from our country??</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i>His truth: <b>I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">John 14:18</span><b>) The Comforter shall abide with you forever.</b> (<span style="font-size: x-small;">John 14:16</span>) <b>I will give strength to My people; I will bless My people with peace. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Psalm 29:11</span><b>) I will never leave you, nor forsake you. (</b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hebrews 13:5</span><b>)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
The Lord is good. His peace is surpassing. His faithfulness is sure. His strength is our shield. His truth is our sword.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-5875623973427957382012-10-29T09:44:00.000-05:002012-10-29T09:44:01.143-05:00Teaching our Children to Give<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eysOto6WNlk/UI6UimcJFCI/AAAAAAAAEac/rLe8NbYIvw8/s1600/pic_toys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eysOto6WNlk/UI6UimcJFCI/AAAAAAAAEac/rLe8NbYIvw8/s200/pic_toys.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.babydickey.com/" target="_blank">photo credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My 18 month old little boy has a lot of toys. He really does. He is our firstborn AND he is the first grandchild (and <i>great</i>-grandchild!) on both my side and my husband's side so, suffice it to say, he has many goodies to play with.<br />
<br />
I made a decision before Nathan was born that I would teach him, and our future children, not to hoard up toys and clothes, but have a heart to give and bless others. I decided that each year before Christmas and every birthday, I would go through their things with them and we would choose items to give and donate away to other children.<b> </b><span style="font-size: large;">This has a two-fold purpose</span>. Not only does it free up space in our home and keep our house from becoming overly cluttered and hoard-ish, but more importantly it instills in them a habit and a love for giving. A statistic from 2011 reads that <b>42 million people in the US live in poverty</b>; <b>16.1 million of them are children</b>. Did you know that at least 80% of humanity live on $10 a day? According to UNICEF, 22,000 children <u>die</u> each day due to <u>poverty</u>. I don't know about you, but that breaks my heart. And when I look around at the mass of "stuff" that is easily accumulated in our home, I am even more disturbed. I want my children to see that they do not "need" 20 coats, 50 pairs of shoes, and 100 toys. A simple baby doll is extravagant to one little girl out there. A warm coat means the world to a shivering little boy somewhere. It is my goal to direct my children's attention to the needs around them, and then have a desire to try and meet those needs. And like most things, a giving heart needs to be taught at a young age.<br />
<br />
The other day I sat down with Nathan in his room and we began going through his toys. I chose toys that he does not play with and that have no sentimental value, and explained that we were going to share those things with a little boy who has nothing to play with. I said, "We have friends who don't have lots of toys! Let's give them a few of ours!" He, of course, doesn't fully understand, but one day he will.... And I hope when that time comes, that he will have learned to have a cheerful, giver's heart. It's also important to remember that we cannot expect to teach our children to give when we, adults, hoard up our stuff. I can't be hypocritical. I, too, go through my clothes and things and pack a box to donate or give away. As a parent, I have to set the example.<br />
<br />
What are ways that you have found to help instill a giving heart to young ones?<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-49615756596095108002012-10-09T14:23:00.002-05:002012-10-09T14:30:06.803-05:00Fifteen Reasons to Flee Fifty Shades <br />
<div align="center" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; margin-bottom: 23px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px; color: red; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I feel the need to post a warning at the beginning of this post. This blog post is about the popular series, "Fifty Shades of Grey" and contains sexual references. Please be advised before you continue and I would ask that those ages 15 (at least) and younger <b>do not read</b>.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mDD4GAqKF5M/UHR11-XNn1I/AAAAAAAAEZs/EoouV6Z9esk/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mDD4GAqKF5M/UHR11-XNn1I/AAAAAAAAEZs/EoouV6Z9esk/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A few years ago, before I married, I worked at our county Library. It was there that I came face-to-face with the ever-popular romance novels. Growing up in Church and with godly parents, I had heard on numerous occasions to flee the books and not be drawn into their lust. I never quite understood just how harmful a little book could be. Little did I know....<br />
<br />
I remember one morning at work, watching as an older lady came in with (literally) a bag full of romance novels to turn in and exchange for a new bag. As she exited the library and I looked at the stack before me to put away, my curiosity got the better of me and I wondered, "<i>What on earth is in these things?!?</i>" I picked one up, I opened it, and after less than two minutes of skimming, I was slammed with foul, obscene, sexual talk that I had never been exposed to before. Quite honestly, I was shaken. I was disgusted. I was embarrassed. I was affected. And then I was horrified and righteously angry as I watched countless Church women grab armloads of the books to cart home.<br />
<br />
Now I have sat quietly and observed scores of women - young and old, Christian and non - who are raving about the series, <i>Fifty Shades of Grey</i>, and are about as obsessed with its content and characters as most tweens are with the Twilight phenomenon. I can't sit quietly anymore because I have a passion for purity and for marriage. So I have listed below 15 reasons to avoid and run from <i>Fifty Shades</i>. I don't want to offend and make anyone upset, and I am in no way going to be drawn into a debate. I'm just speaking what I believe the Lord wants <u><i>someone</i></u><i> </i>to say. And I pray we will all have "ears to hear" and hearts to obey.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">15 Reasons to Flee Fifty Shades</span></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>It glorifies sex outside of marriage</b>. Of course, it's common these days to have sex outside of marriage, but that makes no difference to a God who says "I change not" (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Malachi 3:6</b></span>). The relationship between Ana and Grey in <i>Fifty Shades</i> is an immoral relationship, simple as that. They are not married, yet they are engaging in premarital sex over and over again. God's Word says to "flee fornication." (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>1 Corinthians 6:18</b></span>) If He says it, we should obey it and run from it. Not place a glorifying picture of it on our coffee table or download it onto our Kindle.<br /> </li>
<li><b>It's all about lust.</b> Let's just be honest. People aren't reading <i>Fifty Shades</i> because it is a literary masterpiece. I'm no fool. It's ALL about lust. The Bible is strong against lust. I'd go as far as to say that the root problem for nearly every sin is lust. The Bible says in 1 John 2:16 that the lust of the flesh and the eyes is not of God, but of the world. In James 1:15, it says "<i><b>Then when lust hath conceived it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death</b></i>." That's a serious verse, people.<br /> </li>
<li><b>BDSM is praised</b>. Hebrews 13:4 tells us that the marriage bed is undefiled. Meaning that as long as you stay within God's guidelines, you are free to enjoy the pleasures of marital intimacy. First of all, the couple in <i>Fifty Shades</i> is not at all married, so sin it still is. But<u> if they were married</u>, it is wrong to beat, harm, be demanding and hateful, controlling, and inflict pain upon another. Ephesians 4:32 tells us to be kind, gentle, and tender.<br /> </li>
<li><b>The book(s) are explicit</b>. You can go ahead and argue that Song of Solomon is explicit. But before you tune me out (if you haven't already) I would like you to sit down and read the whole book of Song of Solomon and then compare the most detailed and "explicit" verse with a <u>basic</u> sexual paragraph from <i>Fifty Shades</i>. Song of Solomon is a beautiful, poetic picture of marital love and intimacy. It is written in allegory and because it is in God's Word and goes according to His principles, it is good.<i> Fifty Shades</i> is nothing more than a trashy counterfeit that's more about "hot-sex-in-the-backseat" than pure and holy marital love. Sorry, but it's true.<br /> </li>
<li><b>It takes the glory away from marriage</b>. Been there, done that. I have had to sit still while biting my tongue while women talk down about their husbands as they tote a bag full of romance novels to the front desk of the library. I've seen women belittle their hardworking husbands on Facebook and then gush about the hot and steamy "love" in <i>Fifty Shades</i>. NEWSFLASH: Marriage is not like movies and books. Marriage is hard. It is not for the weak, the lazy, or the "pamper-me-princess" type. It takes 110% on both parts and, honey, if you're soaking up the made-up "ideals" in books like <i>Fifty Shades</i>, you're slowly breaking down your marriage, piece by piece.<br /> </li>
<li><b>It's pornography for women. </b>If your husband (<span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm including your FUTURE husband, if you're single</span>) excitedly sat down with a Playboy magazine and spent an hour turning the pages, would you be offended? Here he is, gazing at naked women and maybe even excitedly telling you about how great the magazine (or website, etc) is. Let's get real. <u>It is no different</u>. You can try to justify it, but YOU sitting there reading about a man ripping clothes off of his conquest and letting your mind take flight in your own private movie is the same thing... it's porn.<br /> </li>
<li><b>It stirs up discontentment in marriage</b>. I've heard it. "<i>Why doesn't my husband do that?</i>" or "<i>Why can't my husband treat me that way?</i>" Romance novels - and I'm not just talking about<i> Fifty Shades</i> - are written to appeal to women's sexual appetites. They gaze at the "hunk" on the cover or read his detailed description in a book and wonder why their husband can't look like that. They read about a passionate moment and become discontent because they haven't had one "just like that." Ladies, IT'S MADE UP. It's fiction. Expecting our husbands to live up to this make-believe man in a book (or movie, for that matter) is stripping him of HIS glory. God made him the way he is. And you married him. Toss the garbage and focus on your husband. He may not be as romantic as the made-up guy in the book. He may not say the same things in the same way. He may be 50 lbs heavier than he should be. But hey, if you're like me, you probably don't look like a goddess yourself. My husband loves me. He works hard for me. He is the father of my children. And I adore him. Not for one minute would I think of belittling his good qualities and try to change him into a mold of man some woman made up. No, thank you.<br /> </li>
<li><b>It mistakes lust for love</b>. Reviews say that <i>Fifty Shades</i> is "bringing marriages closer." Come again? All this book does is point our affections to a fake man. Yeah, it may possibly make you run and jump into your husband's arms. But what's the reason? Because you're desperately in love with him? Or because you're in a lustful frenzy? Is it because you find him absolutely desirable? Or because you have a mini-movie playing out in your head and you want to act it out for real? Don't mistake lust for love.<br /> </li>
<li><b>It gives unrealistic expectations to the single. </b>If you read <i>Fifty Shades</i> as a single person, you are setting yourself up for disappointment in marriage. All you're doing is focusing on made-up, sinful fantasies from a woman who does not know Jesus Christ. If you want to prepare for marriage, go to the best marriage manual ever written - God's Word. There are plenty of Godly resources and Godly people who can help you become ready and worthy for a great marriage. But mark my words, if you absorb the mentality of romance novels like <i>Fifty Shades, </i>you will not only be ill-prepared, taint your mental and emotional purity, but have a distorted view of how a marriage relationship (or any relationship) should be.<br /> </li>
<li><b>It has the potential to lead to adultery</b>. <i>Fifty Shades</i> is full of immoral sexuality. As I mentioned above, it can EASILY lead to discontentment in marriage or unrealistic expectations prior-to marriage. Discontentment often breeds a need to find....well...contentment! And I've heard people say, "<i>Well if I can't find "it" here, I'll go elseware!</i>" Don't say you are above it. Many greats in the Bible failed because they did not guard themselves properly against Satan. Do not be surprised if you find yourself unsatisfied with your husband and begin to wonder how green the grass is across the fence.<br /> </li>
<li><b>"No-strings-attached" is the key. </b>There is no romantic relationship in <i>Fifty Shades</i>. Only a sexual one. No plans of commitment. Just raw, sexual vomit. As a happily married woman who waited for her wedding day, I can testify that they (and the millions in the world following the same destructive path), have no clue what they are missing.<br /> </li>
<li><b>It's captivated the world.</b> If you take a step back and even open up your Bible and read the history of God's people, you can find that usually whatever is wildly acceptable in the world is anti Christ. <i>Fifty Shades of Grey </i>topped best-seller lists around the world. The series has sold 40 million copies already, worldwide. Book right have been sold in 37 countries. It has set the record as the fastest-selling paperback of all time, beating the <i><a href="http://createdtobehis31.blogspot.com/2011/07/harry-potter-and-jesus.html" target="_blank">Harry Potter</a></i> series. Usually, that's a red flag to stay away. Whatever is loved and admired by the world, is usually hated by a holy God. 1 John 2:15 says, "<b><i>Love not the world, <u>neither the things that are in the world</u>...<br /> </i></b></li>
<li><b>It makes us vulnerable to Satan. </b>Lust begins with the eyes and mind. It's been said that the mind is the devil's playground. By opening our mind up to books like this, we are hanging a big "Welcome" sign to the devil. 1 Peter 5:8 says, "<b style="font-style: italic;">Be sober, be vigilant</b><b style="font-style: italic;">; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.</b>" Satan would like nothing more than to destroy our marriage, our purity, and our walk with God. And he will use tools exactly like<i> Fifty Shades</i> to fill us with vile, sinful thoughts.<br /> </li>
<li><b style="font-weight: bold;">It will mare your purity. </b>Proverbs 4:23 says, "<b><i>Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life</i></b>." In other words, if I may paraphrase...."<i>Guard your heart no matter what it takes, because what's in the well comes up in the bucket</i>." When we fill ourselves with impurity, (<span style="font-size: x-small;">and, be honest, <i>Fifty Shades</i> cannot in any way constitute as "pure"</span>) make no mistake, it WILL overflow. <u>Purity is important</u>. And it isn't solely for the single. Purity is a LIFESTYLE. It physical...but it's also mental and emotional too. The Lord says be holy (<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">1 Peter 1:16</span></b>). 1 Timothy 5:22 says to "....<b><i>keep thyself pure</i></b>." It's important while single. And it's important while married.<br /><b> </b></li>
<li><b>It will draw you away from God. </b>You may be a Christian and secured in your salvation, but if you soak up perversion and filth, you will not be close to Jesus. Sin drives a wedge between us a God. That's why Christ came and died for us! - to bridge that gap and give us a way to Him. When we willfully indulge in sin or toy with evil, we are spitting in the blood that saved us from hell. We are all human. We all make mistakes. We all fall! We all fail. But that doesn't mean we should frustrate His marvelous grace and embrace sin, while waving the "I'm saved forever" card in His face. Pursue righteousness. Run after Jesus and all that He is. If we, instead, try to ride the fence and have our cake and eat it too, we will drift farther away into mediocrity and have little to no impact for our Savior.</li>
</ol>
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: red;">** Please note that this blog post was written to fellow Christians. If you are not a believer in Jesus Christ, I was not directing this post to you. However, I would love if you would <a href="http://www.createdtobehis31.blogspot.com/p/my-testimony.html" target="_blank">click here</a> to learn more about the Jesus who loves and saves!</span></span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-45518023830165046512012-10-09T11:02:00.003-05:002012-10-09T11:02:25.068-05:00The One You NeedAs we are now expecting a little girl....this song melts my heart over and over. <3 br="br">
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SEYjSQipL60" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
THE ONE YOU NEED Lyrics<br />
Shane and Shane<br />
<br />
Hey hey sweet daughter<br />
I am so proud to be your father<br />
Each day is like a gift from God<br />
<br />
Hey hey sweet daughter<br />
There’s no music like your laughter<br />
And your smile is like a rising sun<br />
<br />
You know I loved you from the start<br />
So come in close<br />
Take my hand for<br />
Daddy shares his heart<br />
<br />
I wish that I could be your everything<br />
Be the one to give you all the things you need<br />
Sometimes I’m gonna let you down<br />
But there’s Someone if you just believe<br />
Be your hero like He’s always been for me<br />
Darling, Jesus is the one you need<br />
<br />
No matter what you walk through<br />
He will always love you<br />
Just the way you are<br />
For there’s nothing in this world<br />
That I’d walk for my baby girl<br />
That she’ll be happy ever after<br />
<br />
The story of your life is still untold<br />
I pray the King of all the Universe<br />
Would make your heart His own<br />
<br />
I wish that I could be your everything<br />
Be the one to give you all the things you need<br />
Sometimes I’m gonna let you down<br />
But there’s Someone if you just believe<br />
Be your hero like He’s always been for me<br />
Darling, Jesus is the one<br />
<br />
Who will never leave<br />
He’s been there all along<br />
All ready You can find to love<br />
<br />
I wish that I could be your everything<br />
Be the one to give you all the things you need<br />
Sometimes I’m gonna let you down<br />
But there’s Someone if you just believe<br />
Be your hero like He’s always been for me<br />
Darling, Jesus is the one you need</3><br />
<br />
<br />
<!--3-->
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-75580864339637111592012-10-04T12:42:00.002-05:002012-10-04T12:42:51.803-05:00It's a....GIRL!!<br />
Yesterday my husband and I went to have our gender-reveal ultrasound and were shocked to find that our little one is....a....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">GIRL!!</span></div>
<br />
For some reason, we were both thinking "boy" so when my doctor said, "I do believe you have a little girl in there, Mrs. Lee," my heart momentarily stopped.<br />
<br />
<i>"A girl?? A baby girl? A little darling to love on, squeeze, and dress up?"</i><br />
<br />
Oh yes. :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6mx_UbOn7Vo/UG3EOYCkkPI/AAAAAAAAEZE/vf_CQhLUo3Q/s1600/DSCN7421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6mx_UbOn7Vo/UG3EOYCkkPI/AAAAAAAAEZE/vf_CQhLUo3Q/s320/DSCN7421.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Since that moment, I have thought about so much, but my thoughts go beyond ribbons, ruffled dresses, baby dolls, and the color pink. I've taken a good look around and I am well aware of the little girls around me. Sadly, most little girls these days are not....little. They are just mini-Marilyn Monroe's. Growing up, I played with dolls until I was twelve or thirteen. I didn't give much thought to boys at all until then. I wasn't preoccupied with my looks. I was a child, not a wanna-be-pin-up-girl. These days, little girls are carrying around iPhones, iPads, texting all the time, wearing loads of makeup, and dancing seductively to Britney Spears. I want the extreme opposite for my baby girl. My prayer for her - right now - is that she will <i>not </i>resemble Paris Hilton, Honey Booboo, Betty White, Hilary Clinton, or any other well-known "example" of girlhood and womanhood. I would rather her emulate Queen Easter, Ruth, Amy Carmichael, Sabina Wurmbrand, and Leslie Ludy. I would rather she have character and inner strength. I pray she will fall in love with Jesus at an early age and make Him the lover of her heart. I pray she will be servant-hearted and kind. I pray she will be pure, set-apart, and passionate for the truth. I want so much for her and, yes, I am aware that I have an enormous responsibility to TEACH her - by word <u>and</u> example - what a lady of the Lord should be. So please pray for me. And pray for her.<br />
<br />
It's important for us to pray for our children - even before they are born. Especially given the horrifying statistics around us. We ought to pray for our sons to rise up and champion the cause of Christ, be protectors of purity and righteousness, and seek to be...well, MEN. Strong. Mighty. Noble. And likewise we ought to pray for our daughters to embrace their calling as women; to love the Lord; to be gentle, wise, kind, and beautiful on the inside more than on the outside. I encourage you to begin praying for your children today if you haven't already. They need it. The world needs it too.<br />
<br />
So what did we decided to name our little sweetheart girl? I am thrilled to announce that her name will be:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Selah Elizabeth</i></span></div>
<br />
<br />
The name <b>Selah </b>(<span style="font-size: x-small;">pronounced</span> "SAY-lah") means: <i>Pause; Rest; Reflect on the goodness of the LORD.</i><br />
<br />
<b>Elizabeth</b>, which is my middle name, means: <i>Consecrated and vowed to God</i>.<br />
<br />
Please join us in prayer that she will rise up and fulfill her beautiful name.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>Psalm 45:13</i></b><br />
<b><i>"The king's daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold."</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4495306595120854029.post-71619552242985741592012-10-02T11:57:00.000-05:002012-10-02T11:57:03.486-05:00The Pregnancy Files | Week 20 | baby #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-czup-8LFG-Y/UGsX_3a33KI/AAAAAAAAEYc/MBQFOD022wM/s1600/DSCN7407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-czup-8LFG-Y/UGsX_3a33KI/AAAAAAAAEYc/MBQFOD022wM/s200/DSCN7407.JPG" width="158" /></a></div>
<br />
Currently I am 20 weeks pregnant with baby #2! Halfway there! Tomorrow is our big gender reveal ultrasound! I haven't seen our baby since I was 8 weeks pregnant, which is quite different from my last pregnancy, so I am very excited and anxious to see how much he/she has grown. For now, here is the latest with baby and me.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Baby is about the size of a banana.</span><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Baby weighs around 10.2 ounces and measures about 6.5 inches.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">The taste buds are working.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">He/She is able to gulp down several ounces of amniotic fluid each day!</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
I am more in awe all the time. As for me....<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>My nausea is gone.</li>
<li>I had an extreme bout with dizziness for several weeks, which was difficult, but now it's completely gone. Yay.</li>
<li>I am feeling lots of movement and tiny kicks and thumps. It's precious.</li>
<li>I have a bump...as you can see from the above picture. :)</li>
<li>My appetite has been interesting. I haven't had much of one, but I have been craving fruit like mad. I've stocked the house with strawberries, grapes, oranges, apples, bananas, kiwi, and grapefruit. Fruit popsicles ...fruit smoothies...fruit juices....fruit with my meals. But unlike my last pregnancy, I have eaten tiny amounts...hence the small appetite. I'm not concerned, tho. I'll gain it eventually.</li>
<li>My energy levels have gone up, but I can crash quick when I've done too much. But I'm thankful I have <u>lots</u> more energy than a few weeks ago. </li>
</ul>
<br />
Funny how each pregnancy is so different. Can't wait for tomorrow! What are your predictions? Will baby #2 be pink or blue?<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk189/4MyDesigns/Banners/ctbh_signature_01.png" />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01937617050831611588noreply@blogger.com1