March 22nd

It's not too far around the corner. March 22, 2010 will, Lord willing, be one of the most joyous days of my life. Malayna Hope is scheduled to make her debut into the world.

And I'm gonna be smitten!

I won!

I'm thrilled to get my hands on the GAPS book. I was one of three winners in the giveaway. I'm not looking into going completely grain-free, but I'm interested in learning more about how our gut-brain is really connected. I've had great success from following a more traditional diet of properly raised meat, dairy and properly prepared grains. I'm sure reading through this book will give me more ideas of how to help lessen the symptoms of Crohn's and improve our overall health as a family. I'll keep you posted on any grain-free, appealing meals.

You just never know when you might win a blog giveaway - what a sweet surprise and blessing to my Saturday.

A little from Psalm 5

~But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You;

Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them;

Let those also who love Your name Be joyful in You.

For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous;

With favor You will surround him as with a shield. ~

Psalm 5:11,12 (NKJV)

A few of my sweet and dear mommy friends and I just began a study through the Psalms. These verses clearly remind me that through Christ I have a constant, abiding joy. The last fews days a certain little someone in our household has needed lots of discipline, patience, and firm yet gentle guidance. At times I let it bother me and affect my attitude. But as I took a little rest yesterday and read through Psalm 5, the Lord calmed my heart and brought it back to Him. And boy, I needed it. I can rejoice in all circumstances, big or small, because my trust is in Jesus. I have an advocate through Him. His Word is pure and true and today, again, I find rest in Psalm 5.

She's coming!

Not yet, but she'll be here soon - our sweet Malayna Hope! In preparation for her arrival, I'm looking to stockpile our new, as in Craigslist-you've-got-yourself-a-great-deal, upright freezer. Matt picked it up tonight, and I'm so thankful we found it for a wonderful price! Makes this mommy smile! I'm looking for some tried-and-true good freezer meal type recipes. We like any kind of meat, casserole, pasta, breakfast items, pretty much anything except peanut sauce. Sweet hubsters isn't a fan so much! So what do you got for me? Feel free to reply here or shoot me an email!

... 6.5 more weeks to go!

My intent for this year

A friend from my MOPS group challenged me to think of a word to focus on and live by this year. Too often for me, I neglect a new year's resolution almost as quickly as I state it. I then become discouraged and guilt-ridden over the many "should haves" and "could haves". I like the concept of one all-encompassing word, a succinct vision statement. This year my word is focus. On so many levels, I need to grow in this area. Specifically, reading and meditating upon God's Word, serving Matt according to his love language and unique needs, and gently yet firmly teaching Isaac the way he should go. These are broad categories, but I already have goals in mind to live a more focused life in my roles. With the Lord's patience and guidance I'm already noticing seeds of fruit. His word tells us to live according to the Spirit and not the flesh, to put to death the deeds of the flesh. It's a hard thing to do, but that is why the Spirit came. He leads us into all truth. I will pray my way through this year. With the many changes coming my way, I need the Lord to help me focus on His will.

Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, And revive me in your way.

~Psalm 119:37~

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

A better way...

I've felt a bit down the past few days. Nothing big. I'm sure most of it has to do with pregnancy hormones raging through my body. This sweet love inside me is certainly worth it! But, I am in charge of my attitude and to take every thought captive to Christ. I am responsible for repenting and seeking Him and savoring who He is. As I go about my day today, I choose a better way. I choose His way, to be enveloped in His love, forsaking things of this world. This is not easy for me. Too often, I bow to creation or to seek fulfilment from worldy things. This is idolotry and is sinful. With the Lord by my side giving me grace for the moment, today I choose the Way. I will sing Christmas songs with joy and do housework unto the Lord. This is the Way!

~This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.~

Psalm 118:24