Angie_B

long time...

2012-01-03T12:30:00.001-08:00

I will be back....

Day 3 * I am looking foward to...*

2011-07-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

1. The rest of the summer.

2. Staying at home with Drew and Emma.

3. Sleeping

4. Camping

5. Losing weight

6. Date nights

7. Emma and Drew playing together and being friends

8. playing games with family

9. seeing my sister and family again

10. Going to Disney World with the kids someday.

Day 2 Things I am good at

2011-07-09T18:43:00.000-07:00

1. Procrastinating
2. Being a friend (I hope)
3. Being a mom
4. Having fun
5. Eating
6. Following through

I am only putting 6..I feel weird talking about myself. lol I dont know what to put...

Day 1 A few things about myself

2011-07-07T19:16:00.000-07:00

1. I am a Christian.

2. I love my family.

3. I love sunshine.

4. I love summer.

5. I love the beach.

6. I am addicted to Zumba.

7. I am a stay at home mom for the time being.

8. I love being a teacher.

9. I miss college and my college friends.

10. I want to start running again.

30 days of Lists!

2011-07-07T19:04:00.000-07:00

I am starting a new 30 day challenge...It's 30 days of lists...feel free to do it with me!

Day 1: A few things about myself
Day 2: Things I am good at
Day 3: I am looking foward to...
Day 4: Today's playlist
Day 5: My weekend goals
Day 6: My least fav words
Day 7: My favorite tv shows
Day 8: Whats in your bag
Day 9: Favorite websites and blogs
Dau 10: My wishlist
Day 11: Date night ideas
Day 12: Weekly rituals

Day 13: Things i love about my state I live in.

Day 14: On my shopping list
Day 15: Places to see in my town
Day 16: Words that are hard to spell
Day 17: Roadtrips must haves
Day 18: Recipes i want to try
Day 19: Celebrity favorites
Day 20: Things to do this summer
Day 21: Favorite movies
Day 22: Things you wish you had the guts to do

Day 23: I make lists for..
Day 24: Favorite places to shop
Day 25: Favorite books
Day 26: Lessons I have learned
Day 27: Vacations I have been on
Day 28: My favorite foods
Day 29: Today's to do list

Day 30: Favorite Bible verses

Greater is He...

2011-05-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

Wow. God is good. The same time I am listening to a message by Joyce Meyer, I am reading one of my email devotions...and she just said 1 John 4:4: "Greater is he that it is you than he that is in the world." As she said that, I read: "Remember that as a believer, the Greater One is in you -- and He is greater than any problem or difficulty. He will help you. God has the answer for your situation. Look to Him and you will not be disappointed."
Wow.
Thank you God for that reminder. You are in control and have good plans for me. My trials will not last forever.
Why is trusting so hard sometimes? I trust then doubt....a vicious cycle. I know God wants me to cast my cares on Him... God is faithful. I need to trust even when it seems like it isnt going as I want it to.

Something you could never get tired of doing Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 29

2011-04-11T19:11:00.000-07:00

I am skipping day 27 and 28 because I dont have anything interesting to write for that. I could never get tired of eating, laughing, spending time with family, playing euchre, laying out in the sun, summer, watching my favorite shows...etc etc etc I guess this wasnt too interesting either ha

How have you changed in the last two years? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 26

2011-04-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

In the last two years, I have become a real adult ha...no I have been an 'adult' for 4 years, I am 25 years old with a husband, a 2 year old and an almost 2 month old, a house, and a job. I guess I am an adult, with adult responsibilities. I have depended on God more and have learned more about being a better mom and a wife. A work in progress :) 2 years ago I also started teaching preschool - learning to work with other people better and communicate with parents effectively... etc etc.

Someone who impacts your life regularly. Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 25

2011-04-08T19:51:00.000-07:00

My mom is a big part of my life. We are close and talk regularly. My sister also impacts my life. She is funny and also fun to talk to. My whole family does! ha

A photo of something that means a lot to you. Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 24

2011-04-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

My family means so much to me. I love them all so much and am very thankful for them :)

I put the picture of the bible and a cross on here because that means the MOST to me...what Jesus did for me on the cross so I can be with Him and be saved from my sins. No words can be enough to thank God for what He did. :)

Tell us something you think no one really knows about you. Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 23

2011-04-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

First, I am not doing day 22, a letter to someone who has hurt you recently, because I havent really been hurt recently.thankfully...so anyways... Umm I am pretty much an open book so I dont really think there is much people dont know about me ha..ok well here is something. I just went to the dentist and I have 5 cavities! First time in my life!!!! I had a half a one when I was 18...and perfect teeth til now...sigh...how sad. lol

A photo of something that consistently makes you happy Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 21

2011-04-04T11:07:00.000-07:00

I posted 2 pics but its ok. Its my blog HA. What makes me happy is seeing Nick anf the kids together :) Makes my heart happy.

The meaning behind your blog name. Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 20

2011-04-02T19:41:00.000-07:00

This post is the lamest one for me because.....I didnt make my blog creative at all OR my blog name....lol its Angie_B because my name is Angie and my last name starts with the letter B.

hahahahaha and I dont have anything else creative. The end. ha ;)

What is something you hope never changes about you? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 19

2011-04-02T17:21:00.000-07:00

I dont really know how to answer this, but maybe I hope that I will always make time for my friends and invest the necessary effort and time to maintain those friendships.

What is something you wish you could change about yourself? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 18

2011-03-31T13:40:00.000-07:00

Man, there are definitely things I would like to change...this kind of goes along with the post about something you dont like about yourself. I wish I could not worry. I wish I could be carefree and trust. As I said before, I am working on that. Also, I want to look like I did before I had babies haha Gotta get on it now! Especially since I am in a wedding in June! I was so skinny. I just feel gross these days but I guess I did just have a baby .it will be 6 weeks ago in tuesday!

Something you crave a lot Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 17

2011-03-30T16:37:00.000-07:00

hmmmmmm I crave Olive Garden and Red Lobster :D yummmmmmm Olive Garden's breadsticks and Red Lobster's biscuits :) I love bread haha and those are the best! ha

What you miss most about your childhood Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 16

2011-03-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

I would say, as most people would probably say, that I miss not having any adult responsibilities. ha As a child, I was carefree, didnt have to worry about living because my parents took care of me and everything. I also miss all the vacations and cruises ha ...things you look back on and took for granted til you are on your own and cant do all that stuff all the time :) I am thankful now for my family and having a house and a car but I wish we didnt have to pay hahahhaha

Something you don’t leave the house without. Why? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 15

2011-03-28T17:02:00.000-07:00

That would be my phone...I couldnt leave the house without it because I feel disconnected from the world, number 1. Number 2- in case I need to get ahold of anyone or if anyone needs me, they can reach me. LOL I feel like I am writing an essay. This is kinda a boring post too...oh well. The funny thing with my phone is that I have an old phone. I dont text either because I dont wanna pay for it. lol My friends laugh at my phone...."i had that like 10 years ago" lol

If you had unlimited resources, what would your life look like? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 14

2011-03-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

I would probably buy lots of clothes...lol and travel a lt. We would prolly go on more vacations and buy another car and bigger house, stuff for the kids..etc etc...really who would buy more? I would give to missionaries too and help others. I do love giving. We would prolly go to every world cup too LOL Nick already wants to ha I have nothing really else to say. :)

Where are you spiritually? In a valley or on a mountain? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 13

2011-03-28T16:42:00.000-07:00

Why is it so easy to trust and be joyful in good times and hard to in not so good times? I really think I have big faith but then I go through trials and I worry. I fear. I doubt. I feel like a hypocrite sometimes. I need to practice what I preach but it is hard. I struggle the most through physical symptoms, especially weird ones. I worry that it wont go away or that there is something wrong. Deep down I know that is irrational and ridiculous. I go around the same mountain til I can trust God and remain joyful through trials. I am working on it. That is the purpose of trials - to draw us closer to God and lean on him. I have to just give it to him and trust that he is working it all for good and that he has good plans for me. Jer 29:11 Why is it hard? I want to feel good all the time. lol That is not gonna happen. ha I then think of people going through REAL. Hard. trials and they are happy and keep a positive attitude. That really makes me think. I need to focus on the positive and just "keep swimmin' " As one of my profs said "If God was sitting at a desk, nothing would go past his desk that he didnt approve first." God works in everything. This post is really jumbled and I just really just starting typing my thoughts so I apologize for it being random and/or confusing...and also sorry for this being late. I knew there was a lot to think about and I could write forever.....I dont really think I answered the question but that is ok. This is where I am right now. :)

A photograph of the town you grew up in. What did you love/hate about it? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 12

2011-03-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Jackson, MI is where I grew up. I dont really know what really to say about it. I like it. I dont know anything else. However, I know I dont want to live in BIG city. People say there isnt anything to do in Jackson; which I agree there isnt much. HOwever, I am not a partier and more of a homebody so I dont mind. This is a boring post but I dont have much to say about it lol

Greatest vacation or trip *Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 11

2011-03-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

So I have been on many many great vacations...but I will have to say my favorite was my honeymoon. We went on a cruise from Long Beach, California and stopped at Catalina Island and Ensenada, Mexico. :) It was sooo fun! I have some albums on my facebook if you wanna see all our pics :) We walked around Long Beach first and then at beautiful Catalina Island...At Ensenada, we went to a blow hole in the ocean. That was cool! And walked around little shops and tried to barter with them ha. After the cruise we spent two more days at Long Beach, CA.

The funny thing that was while we were there, there was an anime convention. It. was. hilarous. and crazy how man people were there for it!! There were thousands of people dressed up walking around to the convention center! Goood times haha So that is our trip in a small nutshell ...here are some pics from it...if you wanna see more look in my facebook! :)

Favorite Way(s) to Pamper Myself Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 10

2011-03-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

Hmmm I need some pampering haha

One thing that I dont get to do that often is get a massage! Last year for Christmas, I asked for a bunch of gift cards to the spa and I got a massage, facial, and body wrap! It was all heavenly and a great Christmas gift! I have to say my favorite was a massage and facial. I have another gift card and some left over from last year so I want to get a facial!

Another way I pamper myself is taking baths...I do that more often. What I love even more is going in the hot tub! My parents have a hot tub. I used to go in it all the time when I lived at home. I havent been in a while because I was pregnant... so I will say hot tub is another fav. This is a pic of my friends Karina and Betsy and I in my parents hot tub :)

A photo of your last significant purchase. Did it satisfy a need or a want? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 9

2011-03-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

Ummm I dont know what my last significant purchase was...what defines significant? Prolly the last significant purchase was diapers....cuz we NEED those!!! times 2! except we havent had to buy any for Emma yet. Thank you to all who bought us diapers :) But the wipes go fast and still getting diapers for Drew cuz he isnt potty trained yet...so boring post but there ya go!

Not necessarily huggies but didnt feel like taking a pic of our diapers hahaha

The Best Advice I have ever received Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 8

2011-03-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm the best advice I ever received.... I dont know if I can pick one that is THE BEST but....I would say something that is very important is to never compare yourself or your children with others. Everyone is different and everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. We may look at each other and think he or she has it all together but everyone has struggles, and gifts as well! As for comparing children, I have learned I cant do that because of the fact that they all grow and learn at different rates and that doesnt mean that one is better or behind the other.

Tell us about your wedding or your dream wedding Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 7

2011-03-21T08:58:00.000-07:00

Our wedding was on June 23, 2007 at Grace Church and the reception was at Davis Catering. As they say on Four Weddings on TLC " I should win because my wedding was the best." BAHAHA I am totally not saying that and jk. I think its ridiculous they say that because of course you are going to think your wedding was the best because it was YOUR wedding haha anyways... just a little sidetracked.. :)

Anyways, the wedding and reception was so nice and fun. We had a fairly big wedding and and a wedding party of 6 bridesmaids, 6 groomsmen and 2 flower girls. Three of my girls were friends/roomies from college, my sister-in-law and my maid and matron of honor was my sister and my middle school/high school best friend. My flower girls were my two oldest nieces :)

My colors were pastel colors. Each girls had a different color dress. The flowers were gerbera daisies. :D

The reception was so much fun with all our families and friends. I had a bunch of friends there from elementary/middle school, high school and college! :) It was a blast! We were all out there on the dance floor having a great time.

Nick and I danced to "Time of my Life" for our first dance! It was so fun - you know from Dirty Dancing :) I kind of lead him in the moves but I wish we practiced and actually did the dance haha

Well there is a lot I could write about all the details but those are some highlights :) It was one of the best days of my life besides giving birth to Drew and Emma :)

Tell us about your best friend when you were 16, and where you two stand today Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 6

2011-03-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

Kathryn (aka Katie to me) and I were best friends at 16 and we are still friends today even though we have gone down different college paths, locations and careers. We have known each other since preschool and have more inside jokes than can count. I miss those days but thank goodness for facebook, we keep in touch. Katie is a professional woman working as a Public Policy Specialist at Disability Network/Lakeshore... (I just copy and pasted that from her info on facebook) lol. I dont even get what she does :) But she is good at it! Anyways, even though we live a few hours away from each other and do different things, I still love her. We have been through good times and bad times and I hope to stay connected through our whole lives. :)

Something You Definitely Could Live Without Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 5

2011-03-18T05:25:00.000-07:00

Something I can definitely live without is WINTER! The cold! The snow! I hate it. I hate being cold. I rarely complain of being too hot. I am in the wrong state. ha
Anyways, this is something I can live without and wish I did. I am so ready for summer! I was very thankful for the beautiful day yesterday and hoping its not just a tease. I know it is Michigan though so the weather can change at the drop of a hat. At least the end of winter is in sight! :)

Something or Someone You Can't Live Without, Because You Tried Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 4

2011-03-17T06:59:00.000-07:00

It is probably pretty popular to pick your spouse as someone you can't live without but it is true. I have been with Nick for 9 years and will be married for 4 years in June. It's hard to remember my life without him. The longest we have been apart is 2 weeks when we were dating when he went on vacation with his family. It was the longest 2 weeks ever haha! He is my best friend and I love doing anything and everything with him. Even when we are fighting, I would rather be with him fighting than without him. I know I am getting all mushy gushy ;) Its all true. He is my lobster. :D (F.R.I.E.N.D.S) "Shes your lobster. It's a known fact that lobsters fall in love and mate for life. You know what? You can actually see old lobster couples walkin' around their tank, you know, holding claws like..." Phoebe

I havent really tried to live without him but thats ok. I know I cant live without him.

"So it's not gonna be easy. It's gonna be really hard. We're gonna have to work at this every day, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, for ever, you and me, every day." Noah, The Notebook

A Photo of Something I Ate Today: was it worth the calories? Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 3

2011-03-16T14:28:00.000-07:00

I have become addicted to animal crackers. not necessarily organic. Someone gave us these after we had Emma. :) And I have been eating a lot of them. especially today. Luckily, they dont have THAT many calories. compared to other things I could be consuming in large quantities. ha The serving size is 17 crackers. I have eaten that many or more today. But its ok and I say...worth it. haha there ya go!

Something I Really Dont Like About Myself Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 2

2011-03-15T07:46:00.000-07:00

Of course this post is easier than day 1...

I do not like the fact that I worry easily. I worry a lot about physical symptoms, especially when they seem weird or annoying. I get panic attacks about it and worry it wont go away. I know, irrational... I need to practice what I preach and trust God. He is in control. However, I still struggle with worry and anxiety. That is my biggest struggle. I have to give it to God daily.

I also do not like the fact that I tend to be on the pessimistic side; HOWEVER, I have been more positive lately. But at times, I focus on the negative and not ALLLL the many positive blessings in my life. Why cant I be one of those people who is always positive? I can strive to be that way. It is a choice. I am striving to be more thankful and think of alll the blessings I have and focus on those things in my life God has given me.

What I like about Me Spring Forward Blog Challenge Day 1

2011-03-14T05:15:00.000-07:00

Hmm so...I feel weird talking about what I like about me because, its just weird.But here I go...

I like to think of myself as a compassionate/sensitive person. I care about people and their feelings. I think I am pretty in tune with that and dont want them to feel bad etc. Of course I cant say I am like that alll the time but...

I also like to think I am a good friend to my friends. I know that any relationship takes work and sometimes I dont put in 100% effort all the time but I think that I do my best to keep up with my friends and stay connected and interested in their lives.

Finally, I like to think I am a good mom. I do my best to take care of my Drew and Emma. I put their needs above my own almost to the point of worrying, well ok I do worry but hey that is what moms do ha

Alright...that was kind of hard to write. It felt weird. lol But there ya go and I hope that you agree with me?

See you tomorrow for day 2!

Spring Foward Blog Challenge

2011-03-13T12:16:00.000-07:00

some things to remember, a few to forget.
spring clean your soul with the happy life blog!
march 14-april 13

Day 1 – A picture of you and something you like about like about yourself
Day 2 – Something you really don't like about yourself.
Day 3 – A photo of something you ate today. Was is it worth the calories?
Day 4 – Something or someone you can't live without, because you’ve tried.
Day 5 – Something you definitely could live without.
Day 6 – Tell us about your best friend when you were 16, and where you two stand today.
Day 7 – Tell us about your wedding or dream wedding.
Day 8 – The best advice you've ever received.
Day 9 – A photo of your last significant purchase. Did it satisfy a need or a want?
Day 10 – What is your favorite way to pamper yourself?
Day 11 – The greatest vacation or trip you've ever had.
Day 12 – A photograph of the town you grew up in. What did you love/hate about it?
Day 13 – Where are you spiritually? In a valley or on a mountain?
Day 14 – If you had unlimited resources, what would your life look like? (Have fun with this one!)
Day 15 – Something you don’t leave the house without. Why?
Day 16 – What do you miss most about your childhood?
Day 17 – Something you crave a lot.
Day 18 – What is something you wish you could change about yourself?
Day 19 – What is something you hope never changes about you.
Day 20 – The meaning behind your blog name.
Day 21 – A photo of something that consistently makes you happy.
Day 22 – A letter to someone who has hurt you recently.
Day 23 – Tell us something you think no one really knows about you.
Day 24 – A photo of something that means a lot to you.
Day 25 – Someone who impacts your life regularly.
Day 26 – How have you changed in the past two years?
Day 27 – What is something you need to forgive yourself for?
Day 28 – What is something you need to stop blaming yourself for?
Day 29 – Something you could never get tired of doing.
Day 30 – A photo of you today, and 3 good things that have happened during this blog challenge.

Emma update

2011-02-01T10:58:00.001-08:00

The ultrasound went well today. Emma is head down so that is good! We were pretty sure she was but wanted to be 100% sure. :) Also, according to the ultrasound, I am 38 weeks today! meaning a few days earlier..also means that I had Drew at this time! So..comon Emma, lets go haha. She isnt as eager apparently ;) Oh well at least I know it wont be too long now!

We saw her wiggling her toes!! It was so cool and cute saw her little toes going back and forth. And her hands were in front of her face and moved it down and up :) She also has HAIR :)

Sooon :)

Through JESUS...

2011-01-30T19:00:00.000-08:00

This bible study on the tabernacle is so amazing. I want to blog about this first day of homework for this week.. God is so amazing- words cannot describe. In the tabernacle one of the things we find is the mercy seat. Back in the day, God was present there. It was the focal point of God's manifested glory to His people. Long story short the Hebrew word for mercy seat means to cancel, or to make atonement.
* "God presented Jesus Christ as a [mercy seat] through faith in his blood." (Romans 3:25)
God sent his Son to be the mercy seat for our sins!

Now, a great reminder...in our depravity, Christ died for us! She says, " Christ died for us. He died for people who yelled, "Crucify him!" He died for those who ripped His flesh with whips. He died for those who slapped Him and spit on Him... In the moment in all of history when humanity could not have been further from God, Christ died for us."
We cannot even imagine how terrible the sins that hung on Jesus that day. "His father was forced to look away. His Holiness had to forsake His own Son so that through his sacrifice Christ could intercede on our behalf. Jesus experienced the excruciating pain of being forsaken by God so that we might not have to. And because He did, "we have peace with God." (Rom. 5:1)

Our minds cannot even comprehend that kind of love. Even as I type this, I think, even if I dont want to ....sometimes I take this for granted. Lord, forgive me.

All we have to do is believe and accept that love that Jesus died on the cross and rose again for us and we are free and clear and forgiven! John 3:16

" Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. " John 14:6

"But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!)" Eph. 2: 4-5

In Control

2011-01-26T06:05:00.000-08:00

So I get devotions in my emails and other random daily bible verses etc...and I was looking through them and realized something. The last few days the same bible verse kept coming up in different places....

Like 5 different sources had the bible verse Jeremiah 29:11 " For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ad little add-ons about it..I was like "Wait. There are a lot of places reminding me of how God is in control and knows the plans he has and that they are good....when I dont know what I will do or what I should do....God knows...now is when one prays for wisdom. :)

God is good!

36 1/2 weeks...

2011-01-24T11:09:00.000-08:00

Drew...sleeeeep...I am sooooooooo tired....I guess I have to get used to it though because I am gonna get even less sleep when I have Emma! siigh I need a HUGE pot of coffeeee!! lol

I had a dr appt today. I am measuring where I am supposed to be...Emma hasnt dropped yet...The dr estimated she is 5 1/2 to 6 lbs... I hope she comes early...lets this show on the road! ha!

I am very thankful for a healthy pregnancy. God is good. What a miracle a baby is! :)

random rambling post...

2011-01-10T16:58:00.000-08:00

I am just not a good blogger at heart I guess ha...I always think about blogging and what I would write but there is just so much to write about that I never feel like writing it...but after I do, I am glad....anyways...you know the phrase "a woman's work is never done." ?? a rabbit trail...I just looked that quote up and went to this website -
http://www.americanantiquarian.org/Exhibitions/Womanswork/intro.htm it says " Martha Ballard, a well-known eighteenth-century woman, wrote in her journal on Nov. 26, 1795, "A womans work is Never Done as ye Song Says, and happy Shee whos Strength holds out to the End..." Interesting...
ANYWAYS
haha its true...as not necessarily a woman's work but besides that point. it is a true statement...always laundry to do, dishes to do, clothes to put away, toys to pick up, clutter to pick up, cleaning....you get done and feel a sense of accomplishment...then ...you do it all over again. But it is life.
If you know me, you know that I am disorganized and a messy person ha i dont really care to clean...however when its done, I love that it is clean. I have actually gotten better and want it to be clean more than before if you can believe it! ;) Therefore, everyday I have been picking up and cleaning so that it doesnt pile up...except for the laundry today...but I spent all day catching up on laundry and now its 7/8ths done hahaha

Then ending the day playing with Drew and Nick is the cherry on top :) I love Drew's laughs!

slacker....

2011-01-05T20:08:00.001-08:00

I will blog tomorrow. lol

Finding Thankfulness...

2010-11-25T08:10:00.000-08:00

"Finding Thankfulness" by Proverbs 31 Ministries...

"They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness."
Psalm 145:7 (NIV)

In the American tradition, today is an official day of thanksgiving - a day to reflect on, celebrate and express gratitude to God for our blessings. Many will gather with family and friends … perhaps by candlelight, or firelight, or the light of a TV screen broadcasting parades and football games. Many will eat turkey - some hot and moist, and some slightly overcooked and dry, but well-rescued by gravy or cranberry sauce. And many will acknowledge Who provides both family and friends, as well as food and fire.

In the Judeo-Christian tradition, every day is a day to give thanks to God. In fact, each day that the Lord allows us to draw breath is cause to give thanks. Have you thanked Him today?

Have you praised His Name?

Perhaps this day finds you in a tight spot. Maybe this hasn't been your week, your month, or even your year. Maybe you're having trouble seeing what you have to be thankful for. How about your heartbeat? How about the sun that rose today to illuminate and warm the earth? How about the clothes on your body, or the food in your cabinet?

Take a moment to absorb the great gift that the forgiveness of your sins and the purging of your guilt through Jesus Christ is. And the fact that a day is coming when there will be no more sickness and no more tears. That's cause for deep gratitude.

One thing I'm giving thanks for today is my Bible, which is the living, active Word of God preserved for me and you. It teaches me to count my blessings and focus my mind on the gracious loving kindness of God. The Psalmist David leads me to do that through Psalm 145. Let me leave you with his words today, to jumpstart your own Thanksgiving.

A psalm of praise by David
I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever.
Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever.

Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.
They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty-
and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
They tell of the power of your awesome works-and I will proclaim your great deeds.
They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.

The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.
All your works praise you, LORD; your faithful people extol you.
They tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might,
so that all people may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.

The LORD is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does.
The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time.
You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.

The LORD is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does.
The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.
The LORD watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.

My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD.
Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever.

~ Psalm 145 (NIV)

Dear Lord, today I want to say thank You for my life. Thank You for the chance to feel sunshine, to taste fruit, to swim in water and to watch lightening. Thank You for my home and family, my church and friends. Thank You for the chance to know and serve You, now and eternally. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Taylor Swift...

2010-11-18T16:34:00.000-08:00

I discovered I like Taylor Swift. I have started to listen to her songs, never really had before.I know I am behind the times ha..I know most like her, some dont. I dont mean to write this as a controversial post...I never know what will be controversial or not these days LOL..sometimes I write things on my status "just sayin" and it turns into this big controversy ha!

Is she a Christian? because in her Christmas song, "Christmas must be something more," she says "....Is that the day holds something special; Something holy, not superficial; So here's to Jesus Christ who saved our lives; It's something we all try to ignore; And put a wreath up on your door; But here's something you should know that is for sure; Christmas must be something...." That is awesome she says that! Does she write her own songs?

And I like "Love Story" especially going along with "Letters to Juliet" movie. :) I listened to "Never Grow Up" and I cry my face off .... lol I just listened to "Mean" That is an interesting song. Sad but true about some people...except I did think if she did write that song, she must be really mad at the person she is singing about.

Here are the links to those songs...

"Christmas must be Something More"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWhn9UkIiZw&feature=related

"Mean"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CPrzNr1b14

"Love Story"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKlNI7Tw9gc

"Never Grow Up"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiLp1AqtIwI

What it means....

2010-11-12T07:37:00.000-08:00

to be a mom........like a crockpot?

read this little article. It's good and true :) http://www.professorshouse.com/family/children/what-it-means-to-be-a-mom.aspx

and some dont apply to me yet, like going to school, but I can imagine and agree ;)

I love being a mom :)

"The phrase " working mother " is redundant." -Jane Sellman- haha true story!

never leave you...

2010-11-11T04:08:00.000-08:00

wow. i have slacked in my committment to blog everyday.....oh well cant go back. ha well these kind of verses have been in my devotions and it is great comfort, these in particular were today:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ( Philippians 4:6 )

The Lord is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous. ( Proverbs 15:29 )

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. ( 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 )

For your Heavenly Father always knows what is best for you, and; He will never leave you nor forsake you. ( Deuteronomy 31:6 )

Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name, for He will always hear the prayers of those who love and adore Him! ( 1 Chronicles 16:8 )

I am thankful that God will never leave me nor forsake me, no matter what happens!

Grateful

2010-11-05T20:02:00.000-07:00

I have posted this on facebook before, but go to http://bowensheart.com/ Read about Matthew from Sanctus Real band and his family..his little boy who has a heart problem and other issues, who have been in the hospital for month(s)...their faith is inspiring.

I am thankful. I am thankful for a healthy child. I am thankful for God's protection. Matthew gives great insight and encourgement through his raw emotions and conversations with God, what he has learned and what is learning through this journey. I cant imagine. I do know that the greater the trial, the greater the grace God gives. His mercy is new every morning.

I pray that I have that faith and ....I dont know the word I am looking for....but its good to read about other people's stories and their learning and faith through it.

Held

2010-11-03T15:50:00.000-07:00

I like these pictures.

God is in control. :)

He holds us in the palm of his hand.

"I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands." -God. Isaiah 49:15

Some encouraging thoughts for me..and you, I hope!

NaBloMo!

2010-11-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

It is National Blog Month apparently and I am going to blog everyday :) It also goes along with the thankful theme of November and the 30day giving month :)

God is good.
I am blessed.

Today a mom gave me some adorable baby girl clothes. She has 4 girls...I obviously dont have ANY girl stuff! ha
That was very thoughtful of her to give me some :) I cant wait for Emma to come and wear cute clothes ha that sounds funny...I just cant really picture it well because I dont have a girl. Cant wait for that part though - dressing her up in cute little outfits and dresses :) and little hats! :)

Stop and Think.

2010-11-01T17:04:00.000-07:00

I came across this video.... http://www.crazylovebook.com/videos_stop.html ...the author of "Crazy Love" Francis Chan...i saw someone's status with a quote by him and i decided to look the book up. I am definitely getting it....going deeper with God....this video is actually talking about the awesomeness of God and how crazy amazing it is that the GOD OF THE UNIVERSE loves you and me....

He says "Despite everything you have done in your life. God still loves you. He doesnt want punish you. In fact in the greatest act of love ever, God himself had His son come down on the earth, take the form of a man, and be nailed to the cross. you see Jesus was taking the punishment for our sins. If no one was punished, God would have been unfair because a crime was committed. but the crazy thing is you and I are guilty. We are the ones who messed up but God had His own Son punished for us. WHY? The bible says its because He loves us THAT MUCH. This is the most amazing truth in the world. the GOD of the universe loves you. I used to think I understood the love of God..." ....then he talked about seeing his daughter nailed to the cross...just think the God, the creator of the world went through that...amazing....creator of ALL OF THIS...loves me..and you...makes life worth living.
---------------------------------------------------------
It is so true...like we take so much for granted...just because...but it is really amazing if you stop and think about it. God didnt have to create us. He didnt have to save us...but He did...

"I will be with you!"

2010-10-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

So I am blogging right away this time about my bible study the other night...hehe another great video session with Beth Moore. :) Sorry about my jumbled thoughts...........

We have been talking about the start of the tabernacle/history and right now it was about Moses have encounters with God while Aaron makes a golden calf... and the video sesson was titled "An Elevated Glimpse of God"

God is affected by us and he desires a friendship with us. Exodus 33:11 says how God spoke to Moses face to face like a friend. It doesnt even say how Moses talked to God but GOD talked with Moses! Also His Presence is with us.

John 14:21 states "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." She goes on to say it doesnt just mean love them but demonstrate his love on them...show Himself to them who do that. :)

God's presence is with us... "The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." And a bunch of verses that talk about how God is with us! :)

Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Genesis 26:24"That night the LORD appeared to him and said, "I am the God of your father Abraham"Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham."

Genesis 28:15 "I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you."

Matthew 1:23The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"[a]—which means, "God with us."

Matthew 28:20"and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
--------------------------------------
Exodus 33:22 states "When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by."

She ends with saying "Sometimes we dont see God coming...in dark trials, but we see him leaving...maybe because he has us in the cleft of the rock." God takes care of His people :)

God will come through...

2010-10-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

So I am mad I didnt blog about this right away like I was going to after my bible study last time...it was such a good session by Beth Moore and was fresh in my mind. I am sure there will be more and more I will blog about...anyways...

Last time she was talking about having a daily relationship with Jesus . Back up. She was talking about the people in the wilderness getting the manna but they had to get it fresh DAILY....we want to store up everything on Sunday at church....but we will never live the healthy lives God wants us to live if we dont spend time with him daily and want to walk closely with Him....she said that it was like God was saying "All I am asking you to do is go gather the manna." ...spend time with Him...and then she said "our objecions to God's daily approach are rooted in pride and fear" and says we are scared He will not come through for us..which is so true if we think about it..when we worry... but its God's invitiation to faith....and then she concluded with Lamentations 3:19-24"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning" AMEN!

Now, if I can take that seriously everyday...I do have daily devotions but admittedly sometimes I just read through it not really thinking about it...but I should be spending some quality time with God everyday.

God is good! He is faithful!

Insights :)

2010-10-11T18:14:00.001-07:00

I am doing my bible study homework and it is awesome...right now I read thru the red sea parting and ....then the Israelites in the wilderness....(Exodus 15 and 16ish) Short summary, they are in the wilderness and have to depend on God to meet their provisions and he does obviously but they still complain and grumble...well I got a great chuckle out of this part...what God said to them after they complained about wanting to eat meat from Egypt EVEN THOUGH God had been providing manna and quail....

HE says and I quote from the Bible - Numbers 11:18-20 "Tell the people: 'Consecrate yourselves in preparation for tomorrow, when you will eat meat. The LORD heard you when you wailed, "If only we had meat to eat! We were better off in Egypt!" Now the LORD will give you meat, and you will eat it. You will not eat it for just one day, or two days, or five, ten or twenty days, 20 but for a whole month—until it comes out of your nostrils and you loathe it—because you have rejected the LORD, who is among you, and have wailed before him, saying, "Why did we ever leave Egypt?"

bahahahahaha oh God is funny, isnt he?? I just laughed. God is faithful if we will just trust in Him. :)
God wants us to trust him that he will provide, which he will. We shouldnt worry about tomorrow because tomorrow will have worries of its own (Matthew 6:34) God's mercy is new every morning! Beth Moore said "God was telling me that a sufficient amount of mercy and grace would be set aside for me everyday of my life, enough every morning!"

I wish I didnt worry so much. I am working on that. God is good. God is faithful. I remember that when I look at the sunrise. It comes up everyday.

Emma Renee Barney

2010-10-01T05:03:00.000-07:00

is our baby girl's name. I am very excited :) We will have Drew and Emma. so cute. hehe Now that I am having a girl, I wonder what she will look like. Will she look like Drew? have curly hair like him and Nick? Or look like me? :) It is now the waiting game, I suppose... We will see her soon enough. I am 20 weeks. half way or a tad more than half way depending on when I have her. I havent really felt a lot of movement yet...hoping that will happen soon...usually they say with the second, you feel the baby sooner but I didnt...but she has a good heartbeat and the ultrasound seemed fine, so I am trusting that she is healthy and active and I will feel her a lot soon :)

Proverbs 3:5-6

UNFORTUNATE .....

2010-09-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

Today i got a speeding ticket. :( ...my first one....by cascades ice cream co...where it is 25 mph, on my way home from school... i didnt even realize how fast i was going and OF COURSE there was a cop that was coming the other way. all of a sudden and i see he turned around and followed me...i immediately started crying and shaking of course. He came up to the car and i already started to cry, he was like "are you ok?????" i said "ya i just havent gotten a ticket before"..he was like "do u know why i pulled u over?" i said "ya i was speeding i just didnt realize it" He asked for my license and registration...AND my hands were sooo shaky, trying to find the stupid thing in the glove compartment...i couldnt find it...he said do u have insurance on the car? i said yes....so he went back to the car and said to keep looking...i did find it in an envelope...guess nick and i should have discussed where it was just in case...anyways he was gone for a while and i was bawling my face off...i dont even know why i guess hormones plus being in that situation...he said i was going 37 in a 25 but gave me a citation for 5 over...so i guess that is ok ..he was like i know you have a good driving record but I have to give you a citation, and i wrote down i gave u a verbal warning about the registration because you need to know where it is...and he left. SIGH...........except i dont even know how much its for...i dont see it on the sheet he gave me and i can barely read it anyways....i was thinking i dont even know what to do.....sigh...

i guess i have to take it as live and learn.

Ready for a good day tomorrow....

Being Thankful

2010-09-08T12:11:00.000-07:00

Since I just posted a blog and said how one of my devotions was about being thankful, I will blog about what I am thankful for:

Jesus Christ. Without Him, I would have nothing, be nothing. We can't even comprehend all He is and all He has done for all of us - Suffering, dying on the cross in the place of us and rising from the dead to be with us in Heaven. God is good.

Family: Mom, dad, sister, nieces, sistersi-in-laws, grandparents, in-laws and family,extended family
Nick, Drew, baby inside
Health
Life
Sunshine
Jobs
True Friends
Car
Breath
Melissa watching Drew while I teach
God's unending love
Encouraging words from others
Pictures -memories
Naps
Church
Good food

I could go on and on depending on how specific I want to get, but even just looking at this list, I know I am blessed. God is good. I need to think of the good things in my life when I start to be negative, which I tend to do sometimes :/

The show must go on...

2010-09-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

So I have had a bad migraine since last night = no sleep and throbbing pain today at school . However, as they say, the "show must go on." I have to still teach and be there for the kids and be animated even though I don't feel well. The kids put a smile on my face though :) Here I sit though with it still so praying it goes away quickly...

In my devotions today, two of them talking about being thankful and casting your care...always a good reminder :)

1 THESSALONIANS 5:18 " in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

1 PETER 5:7" Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares aboutwhat happens to you."

FIRST day of preschool

2010-08-31T16:46:00.001-07:00

Today was the first day of preschool. I didnt really have a ton of energy thinking about school starting before today..BUT this morning as I was in my classroom getting ready, I was excited! It is amazing how ready you are when you get there and excited to see the kids :)

There were a few tears ... It was sad... but after a little bit, the kids that were hesitant and didnt want mom to go, had a lot of fun. The first few days are always the hardest. However, last year none of the kids cried. They were all like "see ya mom!"

I forgot how young they are in the beginning of the year...this class..not only are they young, they are a young class of 3 year olds...most of them JUST turned 3 this summer! They are all very adorable as always :) It will be a fun year. Its just funny how you go from the Spring, where they were at to the Fall, with new young 3 year olds. And let me tell you..they grow up A LOT during the school year!

It was fun to see my kids from last year in the hall going to the 4 year old preschool class. I am glad they are still by me...I just love when they shout out "HI MRS BARNEY!" and today when we were lining up to go home, a couple of the kids I had said to the others "MRS BARNEY WAS MY TEACHER LAST YEAR :) :) Oh I love it.

I was pretty exhausted by the end of the day.,,or rather half day. My body has to work up the endurance and I am probably more tired because I am pregnant... I am thinking, its just the beginning, what is it going to be like when I am 8 months!? lol it will be fine...

Well there are my jumbled thoughts from today! :)

15 weeks 4 days

2010-08-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I posted...now I will start...again. lol
I had a dr appt today. I was very excited to hear the heartbeat again. That is always reassuring and makes me happy. I will be 16 weeks on Thurs, Sept 2 :) On Sept 27, I get to have my ultrasound and find out if its a boy or a girl!!:)

I have lost some weight, which I dont really know why, but not really concerned about it cuz its not much and I am measuring where I am supposed to and the baby has a good heartbeat :) Thanking God...

I hadnt thrown up in like a week but I did today. boo...So I feel nauseous... but I am thankful for this miracle growing inside me. God is faithful. I had been anxious pretty much this whole pregnancy so far and I hate that I was...I really dont know why, because with Drew, I didnt think about anything really..anything bad...this time thoughts swirl through my mind...I keep giving it to God and trusting him because there really is no reason to worry. I am less anxious now so I am going to start enjoying and trusting :) God is forming a perfect little person inside and I thank Him for that. It really is a miracle! I know I am repeating myself...

Tomorrow preschool starts...I am ready...for the most part..have to gear up mentally~ :) I am
excited to see all the cute little 3 years. I love it. I hope I wont have to throw up tho! I thought I would be done with that!

Alright for those who read, I will be updating this more now...I promise...lol

....

2010-07-30T19:51:00.000-07:00

Waiting.

"I won't let you fall."

2010-05-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

I put this as my status on facebook but wanted to put it down here to remember it.

I was helping a girl walk across the beam at school by holding her hand and I said "I wont let you fall." I immediately thought about how that is like God. When I am scared, He tells me "I wont let you fall." Oh how i love these reminders through the things that occur through the day.

Blonde leading the Blind (Not me Monday)

2010-05-03T07:36:00.000-07:00

Saturday Melissa and I took an adventure to Meridian Mall in Okemos.

It truly was an adventure...

I was not distracted by talking and missed our exit and then tried to turn around and ended up ways and ways away at Biggby. We asked the guy where Meridian Mall was and he said "Oh you have to get back on 1-27 and go all the way to where 96 crosses and get off on Okemos.... I do not know how we got so far away. I definitely was not the blonde one when I have driven there many times but still was lost lol

Then at the mall when we walked out to our car, I defintely REMEMBERED where the car was so we did not walk all around the parking lot searching and searching and then Melissa did not go into the mall to walk back through to see where we parked while Drew and I waited where we were....( we definitely WERE NOT on the other side of the mall) lol I tell ya....

We knew exactly where we were going throughout that whole escapade.

We went through the drivethru at Wendys and we definitely did not wait at the first window for 5 minutes contemplating if they said go to the first or second window. (even tho there was no one at the first window) then the lady at the second window was waving us down.

We definitely had an adventure :) and a lot of laughing. It was fun.

Life's not fair

2010-04-27T18:37:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking that life is not fair. It really isnt. Too depressing to go into details about all the reasons why...but I came across this poem ....

Life's Not Fair - Praise God

It's just not going the way I want
Does God in heaven care
Can't he see I need him here
I cried, "Life's just not fair.
The prodigal was foolish with what he had
Spending his money here and there
Until his funds had drained away
Then he cried, "Life's just not fair."
Many heroes from Bible times
Went sailing on waters of despair
They were to blame yet cried out loud
Oh God, "Life's just not fair".
A garden perfect in every way
To walk with God without a care
But disobedience was the thanks he got
It's true, "Life's just not fair."
His Son he sent, his light to share
We killed his Son, laid in the sod
We deserved to die, he gave us life
Life's just not fair - praise God.

Well..thinking in that perspective, I should be thankful. Its a good thing we dont get what we deserve because what we deserve is hell. BUT PRAISE GOD, we have hope!

I have been really focusing on seeing the positive and not the negative, which I struggle with and still do but I have been constant in prayer and thinking about my blessings.
Work in progress! :)

Unexplainable

2010-04-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have so many thoughts on my Bible study and I have wanted to blog about it but I jsut havent done it. So I am doing it now....

This bible study has been amazing and so was the bible study before. I am in Beth Moore's Bible study "Jesus the One and Only." It is a study of Jesus' life. Awesome study. Awesome God. I recommend any Beth Moore study.

I have been a Christian most of my life and so I know most of the stories of the Bible like the back of my hand. However, the downside of that is that it can become...I dont know the word that I am looking for but like you can begin to just read the words and not really think about what you are reading. Do you get what I am saying? It is hard to explain, but not really taking it to heart because you already know the story. Well this study , I have met with Jesus in a whole new way. I have walked with him through his journeys in Jerusalem, Galilee, Samaria, the Garden of Gethsemane....became an eyewitness through everything he did. Beth encourages us to really picture everything you are reading. Now, as simple as this sounds, it was a new birth for me to reading the Bible..as I have done so many times in the past but just really reading the words, if I am honest with myself. This time I have opened my eyes and imaginiation as I read what Jesus did, said, etc. It is difficult to explain all my thoughts on this but thats ok. lol I realize I am repeating myself. It is just amazing how a book that has been around for so long and that you have read so many times, could give you new insights when you read it again!

Now I could write a whole book about my thoughts on all the sessions, but I am going to write a little about this session tonight. In the video message, Beth set the stage at the Mount of Olives after the Last Supper and before Judas' betrayal and Jesus' death...in the Garden of Gethsemane. It was a theme of God's Will. Jesus was so much in anguish about what was going to happen, he sweat blood. This is an example of me reading this so many times, I dont really think about it...But really think about......He SWEAT BLOOD.... that is intense...He said "Father, if its possible, let this cup pass from me....but not my will but your will be done." Beth said "More than any other place in Scripture, we see Christ at the full crisis of his duel role as God-man." He. being fully man, didnt want to suffer, but he...being God also knew he had to.

The thing that hit me again was, she said "What if Jesus said, 'Frankly, I don't think they're worth it." :0!!! Which he could very well have said! But he loved us soooo much that he knew he needed to do that to redeem us. It's amazing. Because in reality, we arent worth it. We arent worth any of it. But he paid the price...the worst, most aweful death! not only physically but spiritually - all of the sins and diseases of the world on his shoulders...........We just cant fathom it...no words. God is love. Our minds wont comprehend the depth of it all but we can trust. Just liked the song says, "I'll never know how much it cost to see my sin upon that cross..." And all we have to do is believe! :)

I could go on and on. I am just so thankful for these studies and I am really working on examining my thoughts and actions and living for God and pleasing Him. It is a journey! I love studying God's Word and I want to grow in him and let down my pride and have more of God. There is so much to be thankful for - which is a whole new blog ...

Not me Monday

2010-04-19T17:55:00.000-07:00

I think I will jump on the bandwagon of "Not Me Mondays.."

Here is a little 'not me monday'...
I definitely did not get so frustrated with Nick because he tilted in the flap on his coffee cup lid where you take a sip because he said "you get more coffee when you sip if you do that." I did not keep yelling, "umm...your mouth pushes it in so you get the same amount of coffee!!" LOL
I dont know if that makes sense but it was ridiculous lol

I dont know why it bothered me so much lol I just need to be right. I mean I DONT need to be right. ;)

(umm I am working on being creative with this thing haha getting there) haha

more later..........

Random and Anyways

2010-04-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

First of all. why are people so weird? anyways haha

I know I always talk about Drew but he is my world. besides Jesus Christ who IS my world.So thankful for everyything God has blessed us with...that is a whole other post...anyways I dont know who reads this anyways. Drew puts a smile on my face everyday. I just love him so much. When he hugs me and says my name, it is the best feeling. I know I will love it even more when he says 'I love you mommy'. =)
He is a stinker though. Into mischief lol except I think sometimes. He is exploring the world for the first time which is crazy to think about. He loves the outside and cries and cries when we take him inside. He would play all day outside if we let him.

At the moment he is going through my purse and I dont care at the moment haha there isnt anything he can get into that is bad right now... this is how it is with him -constantly running after him as he is getting into anything and everything and climbing up and in and over everything ! :) I love it though! He is amazingly fun and I love him.

Getaway/random thoughts

2010-04-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

So Nick and I went on a mini getaway to Birch Run outlets and Hampton Inn without Drew. It was a fun time and a good time to spend with just Nick. However, I missed Drew. It is just amazing how your life and attitudes/thoughts change when you have a child. It is hard to explain. ANyways, I was very emotional when we dropped him off. I dont know why but I cried and cried lol
When we were at the outlets I just thought about Drew lol I wasnt even thinking about buying things for me. We of course went to Carters and I could go crazy in there with all the adorable outfits for babies and toddlers and there are a lot of cute clothes for boys! for those of you and me before thinking there isnt. ;) Nick was there to keep me from going crazy. It was hard though!

So there is alot I could write but...see I am just not a good blogger. I want to be but its like I have too many thoughts to write down haha

However, I will blog more now. I promise. For those who would like to read. lol

list

2010-02-27T12:42:00.000-08:00

I got this from another friend's blog :) apparently a lot of people have done it but I havent seen it...here ya go!

1.What would you like to appear in your hands right now? hmm.... a baby haha

2.What was the last thing you ate? a couple baked lays

3.What is your favorite episode of a tv show? hmm wow way too many of different shows... i cant even start to say one...i will think about it lol

4.Have you ever ridden in a limo? yes

5.Which is better, your cursive or your printing? i dunno, printing when i wanna write neatly.

6.What photos are living on your camera right now, waiting to be downloaded? And why are they still there? NONE lol if u know me, u know i am constantly uploading haha i hope ppl arent sick of all my pics lol

7.How many pregnant women do you know? 4 or 5!

8. Three things you did this past weekend: played with my nieces, chatted with family, played with drew.

9.If you could only visit three websites for the next month, which would you choose? facebook, twitter, sau.arbor.edu (email)

10.What did your family do for vacations when you were a child? FLORIDA 2 times a year to visit my grandparents and fun cruiseS!!! :)

11.Law & Order or Boston Legal? none

12.Do you mind if guests show up uninvited? depends lol

13.When will you next travel by plane? July to Florida with Stef and the girls and my parents to visit my grandparents! they finally get to meet drew!!

14.What did the last text message you received say? I dont text...

15.When was the last time you got dressed up? i dont remember lol

16.The perfect sign of affection is: a big hug

17.Do you use your real name online or do you go by a screen name? real name.

18.What do you miss when you’re away from home? hm, being in pjs

19.What are you completely & totally over hearing about, reading about, discussing ad nauseum? hm i dont really follow too much into stuff but the bachelor's jason and molly and melissa fiasco lol

20.Do you reply to comments on your blog? Yes

21.What are three things that you are looking forward to? Warm weather, Florida, having another baby :).

22.What is your favorite kind of tree? Palm tree!

23.What is the newest thing you own? hm some pants for school.

24.If I do anything well, it’s: hm i feel weird saying good things about myself. but i try to be the best mom I can be.

25.What is your favorite dessert? hm I love desserts....too many! haha but maybe confetti cake.

26.Do you use a planner? no but my sister got me a good "mom" one so i will start using it cuz i can never remember appts :/

27.What is your all-time favorite tv comedy? King of Queens, Friends, Gilmore Girls. =tie

28.What is your current obsession? photography..except not like into all the photography stuff but just taking pics :)

29.Three signs Spring is here: warmer weather, rain, lighter mood lol

30.Do you balance your checkbook or wing it? Nick does that stuff lol

31.What kind of grapes do you prefer? i like both red and green

32.What is your favorite store-bought cookie? grasshopper

33.What was your fifth grade teacher’s name? Mr.KNEA

34.High school was: great! i liked it... met nick! and had great friends!

35.Describe your dream kitchen: I dont really care lol i know its bad...

36.What would you really like to purchase? i dunno at the moment. i always want clothes...but I wanna be skinny again first....

37.How many of your friendships have lasted more than a decade? some!

38.Are there times when you still feel like a kid? a lot of times lol

39.What teacher from high school comes to mind first? well all cuz i see them but mr. barsuhn came to me first lol

40.What magazines do you read? not on a reg. basis but you know, gossip mags. .lol and parenting.

there ya go! :)

some new thoughts...

2010-02-17T19:00:00.000-08:00

so I havent written in a very long time. The problem with me and blogging is I have too many thoughts and I tend to not wanna take the time to write them all down lol I never was into having a diary or journal, but I do like it when I do blog haha if that makes sense...anyways I wanted to write a little about my bible studies and thoughts.We just finished the Esther bible study. It was so good and I love listening to Beth Moore.

I just started another Bible study with Beth entitled 'Jesus the One and Only' so it will be a study on Jesus. I am excited to study deeply. We talked about famines back in history where people didnt hear new words from God but He wanted to provoke a hunger for God and his Word. In the same way, he does that in our lives with our own 'famines.' Even when God seems silent, he is working in our lives. That is just a tiny bit of the study tonight. It really spoke to me during my own times of struggles and trials. I feel he wants me to draw near to Him and create a hunger for more of Him. There can always be more! I am thankful for these studies and people who encourage and I pray I can encourage others also.

John 1:14 "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Christmas and Drew's first Birthday

2009-12-26T12:50:00.001-08:00

Alright, I havent blogged in years lol well actually day 1 of 30 day shred...it has been going well besides my few days of being sick...i think i lost some weight...anyways I will write about Christmas and Drew's birthday.

Christmas was so fun! We had the traditional Christmas Eve progressive dinner...my parents get to participate too...we went ot my parents first for appitizers, mine for salad, barney's for main course and nick's aunt and uncle's for dessert and a game! At each place, that person gives presents. SOOO FUN! and this is Drew's first Christmas and FIRST birthday TODAY :)

Christmas Day, we went over to Barney's for breakfast and then Nick's grandma's for Christmas dinner. soooo goood and i ate bad... oh well i am back on track today with eating very healthy and exercising..except I did exercise on Christmas Eve... and today is Drew's birthday and just loungin around...(tomorrow is Drew's birthday party with families) :)

Drew has transitioned to one big nap during the day I think...consistantly he has been doing that for a week or so :) it is nice to get things done for the few hrs...

Last night I actually got a little emotional about Drew lol I dunno why...just thinking about his birth and him and everything... :) We are blessed. I love him so much. I understand now a mother's love for her child.

"A mother's love is instinctual, unconditional, and forever."- unknown

Day 1

2009-12-07T15:33:00.000-08:00

Jillian Michaels 30 day shred -Day 1...and no I prolly wont blog everyday, I just havent blogged in a long time.
So it was a good workout. I am very out of shape so I could really feel the burn. The problem is I want instant results. lol Dont we all for anything in life, huh. I guess that is what God means by having patience - fruit of the Spirit! "Those that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength..." Isaiah 40:31... Man its just so depressing cuz I never have struggled with this before I had Drew. Well, I am on the road to recovery! haha (sigh)
The problem is I didnt do anything right after I had Drew to help. I was having other physical issues but...cant go back in time! It kinda feels weird saying this stuff cuz people say it all the time but now I really an determined to get back in shape especially looking at old pics and the pics we just took.

I just keep saying/thinking "I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME"

If anyone has any encouraging words or things you have done to lose weight/get in shape, you are welcome to share with me! :) KEEP ME ACCOUNTABLE!! Thanks!

Conferences/Changes

2009-10-10T09:56:00.001-07:00

Sooo some updates/changes happening in my classroom. I found out at the last minute that my 3 ISD children are being pulled out of my classroom as of Monday. Therefore, I could not even say goodbye :( I guess they are making cuts cuz of funding so they are moving over to a different school with the aide. However, I will only have 9 children now so that is nice.

We have a short week again this week because of parent teacher conferences! I am a bit nervous about that but it will prolly be good once I get started. I need to just be prepared to lead the convo!

The conference was good...but sometimes I feel like education overload haha but that is my job so... :) I learned about some really great ideas though! Brain Gym, which I have heard of before but it was great to have the ideas reinforced, and then great ideas for Bible stuff/chapels for early education. It was also great to hang out with the other teacher gals and LAUGH :) its hilarious playing games....fun times...I hadnt laughed like that in a while. It was good. :)

Tidbit

2009-10-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Fact about 3 year olds reinforced:

* they are very literal.
Once again, this is obvious but I was reminded of this when I told the kids to line up behind Maria. (she was standing by me) Ok so when I said that, all the other kids ran to stand RIGHT BEHIND Maria. LOL Oh dear, I was like ok I need to back up...I need to teach you how to line up first. ....

I learn something everyday.

Great Day!

2009-09-29T19:33:00.000-07:00

So, it isnt like other days arent great, but today at school went soooo smoothly! We had our circle time, song, etc, brief bible story about John the Baptist in the desert and so we talked about deserts...and then did the zoo-phonics -letter "d" etc and we painted cacti (mixed salt with green paint so it will be prickily like a cactus) :) and while I was doing that with each child, I gave them the option to work on puzzles, or other table activities and it worked really well! They were working hard and not crazy all over the room and they love painting! then we had spanish (A spanish teacher comes in) and so on.......

Anyways, I was happy and it makes me thankful. All glory goes to God though, not me!

With 3 year olds, you cant have "dead air" for a second! So I need to make sure I have enough activities in case something doesnt take as long to do, or waiting for something else....That is OBVIOUS but ya know...good to figure out what works.....

I ordered 2 Dr. Jean cds! I am excited to get them and use them! Songs are sooo great!!

Well......til next time.... :)

Discouragement-Encouragement/Today at School

2009-09-23T11:39:00.000-07:00

My devotion today.........

Humble yourselves before the Lord, andHe will lift you up. ( James 4:10 *NIV )

Sometimes we all become depressed because of thingsthat happen in our lives. For sometimes we feel; We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed;perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, butnot abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. ( 2 Corinthians 4:8-9)

Now when you feel the pressures of life rememberthe words of king David, for he wrote; Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve mylife; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me. ( PSALM 138:7 )
Therefore we do not lose heart. For our lightaffliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weightof glory, while we do not look at the thingswhich are seen, but at the things which are not seen. ( 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 )

Humble yourselves, therefore,under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Amen. ( 1 Peter 5:6-7 )

That is my devotion today. I have been having a hard time with being sick and this asthma crap...God has encouraged me even though I get discouraged. That was totally the opposite but...anyways its amazing the bible verses that come in the devotions...and I love it cuz it personalizes it too and says "Dear Angie.,..etc...but I take it out when I post it so you can read it for you too! Anyways I wanted to share this. Praying everyday...

School today was good except I wasnt totally prepared because I havent really thought about school since I have been sick. Today the bible lesson was about Samuel and Eli and so I quickly made 2 stick puppet things with popsicle sticks to play with the story haha It was a good enough visual ;) I have learned that visuals are A GREAT thing to use for those kiddies...well that is pretty obvious but anything that they can ,look at and participate in too works well and they understand better. Teaching 101 haha

Until later......

Fish Rug

2009-09-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

I forgot about something I wanted to post about. THOSE KIDS ARE HILARIOUS...there are some things I definitely did not think about...little things like the new awesome fish rug for circle time....It doesnt seem so fun now when everyday they are FIGHTING OVER a particular fish they want to sit on! - to the point of TEARS....and being mad! So it has gotten to a point where I say so and so can sit on ('Nemo' is what they call it, the orange one)..this day and you can sit on it tomorrow...etc...(sigh) haha It is ridiuclous. lol Or they want to sit on the same fish when I say pick your own...oh those precious three year olds. =)
Well thats my story. The end. :)

End of Third Week

2009-09-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

I have been EXHAUSTED...mostly because I havent had a voice. I hate fall actually partly because I have bad allergies then and it is getting cold......OK wow that sounds really negative but that is my thoughts on that haha....anyways I have been having a BLAST with my little kiddies :) They are so cute but can be little stinkers ;) I am learning a lot and seeing what works and what doesnt...but isnt that what happens :) I will be a pro by next year hahah jk but I am having a great expereince especially with the spec education students and sitting in on IEPs...havent done that before...just heard about them in classes... I have so many good resources which is great!
Um not really sure what to write about... I mean I have soooooooo many thoughts but it is hard to categorize them all and write them down...I am learning more about the best ways for classroom management, which I am testing different types. It is awesome when something works!!
Today was picture day. That was interesting because the photographer took like 5 pics of each child so it took forever. I understand that they want to do a good picture, but I mean comon, they are 3 year olds. They arent going to sit there for 5 min and smile on command. ;) They were getting restless out in the hall waiting!
We went onto Bubba Bear today! Letter B! Just FYI ;) The Bible story today was about David and Goliath and I found this cool game with a big marble or stone and 5 smaller ones and you roll the smaller ones and try to hit the bigger one which is like Goliath! We played that today.

PEACE!

2009-09-11T11:21:00.001-07:00

God is so awesome. I love how he speaks to me..especially in more than one place and in more than one way. Today in my daily devotional I get in my email and a daily bible verse I get in email, BOTH had the SAME bible verse!!!

"Jesus Christ said;Peace I leave with you; my peaceI give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let yourhearts be troubled and do not be afraid." ( John 14:27 *NIV )

I needed that. I have been stressed out because of all the stuff/errands I have had to deal with...insurance stuff and various things....plus teaching so especially today, I needed that word from God. I thank him for his peace!

The one little devotion said this after the verse:
"My peace. The word My is emphatic. This is no conventional wish; this is Jesus' personal, special grant of peace. The peace that Christ gives banishes fear and dread from the heart, for Jesus is in control of all circumstances."

Yay, God is in control! He will work everything out. I am standing on that promise today!

9/9/09 thoughts...

2009-09-09T11:46:00.001-07:00

Today was pretty good. I realize there are a couple things I havent thought about thoroughly like I have been saying "criss cross applesauce, hands in your lap" which is really common. However, one of my aides said to me today, um I dont think they know how to do that right now. Some do but most dont. So I asked the kids if they knew what I meant and they didnt. Therefore, I showed them how to sit like that. Wow. That is when I kind of feel dumb, but that goes back to having to go back down to their level. I am still kind of above that, assuming some things" I should not do that at all. lol
It is interesting the with ISD aide in there with me considering she is the teacher who left last year to do this kind of thing. Its a little intimidiating but she is friendly and encouraging. Today, we just continued the apple theme/creation. Not entirely sure all I am going to do tomorrow yet....
Tomorrow is like "Friday" to me already........it is nice working but only working 3 mornings a week so I can be home with Drew the rest of the time!God is awesome; He worked everything out! :)

Second week of the Beginning

2009-09-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

So today was the first day when the whole class was here! It went a lot better than expected..well actually I did not really know what to expect. There were 4 more kids that started today. 3 are from the ISD and Lyle Torrant. Sweet little Samantha who goes by Sammy has Down Syndrome and the other two have developmental delays/speech...I hate putting labels but for sake of describing.... there are only 3 boys in the class and 8 girls! The other two boys can be in their own little world at circle time haha But they are allll adorable! So this is how it works. The 3 from Lyle Torrant have an aide in addition to my aide....and definitely the aide is actually the teacher that taught in that classroom the past 3 years (I think)... so that made me really nervous at first...but it was ok...still gonna have to get used to it. She said a couple things and was like "sorry!' "I wont say anything." I was like its ok... lol but anyways overall it was a good day :) I thought maybe the dynamics of the class would change after the 4 extra came, but it didnt really. They are pretty quiet so didnt really disrupt the mesh. They all played great together and we have been working on sharing. =)
Today I introduced the zoo-phonics animals and we sang the song of course...one of these days I will tape it :) It is fun! We also talked about apples and how God made the earth and food for us to eat that grows from seeds! I cut open an apple and showed them the different parts of the apple and then we ate apples for snack! Too bad it was raining so we couldnt go outside for recess....well...tomorrow is another day :)

Beginning school thoughts.....

2009-09-04T06:44:00.000-07:00

So I feel like I am being initiated into teaching. I have to jump over the obstacles of being young and being a first year teacher. It is so hard because you have to start somewhere...anyways I could vent a lot...but long story short I have gotten grilled quite a few times...

I am glad to get my first year over with! and no I dont mean I wanna get thru the year, but I cant wait to be starting my second year cuz that means I will have already taught a year. I hope that makes sense...

anyways I do love and I love the kids...It is funny going from 3rd grade student teaching to back down to 3 year olds because I have to teach them to walk in a line! But they are doing well....and we played the zoo phonics song a few times and they already got most of the motions!

The second and third day went a lot smoother! The three hours go by fast! I have to start planning for the next weeks.....
I will be relaxing this weekend and planning ...

FIRST DAY OF PRESCHOOL

2009-09-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

First Day of School:
I was really nervous at first, didnt really know what to expect and I was thinking that that I had to make sure that everything was perfect and that I knew what I was going to say. Then I remembered what Nick said to me before school. He told me to remember to just have fun interact with the kids" That was a good reminder because that was what I always struggled with - thinking more about my lessons being perfect than connecting with the kids and helping them learn.
I was pretty happy with how the first day went. I really wasnt sure how long things would take or how the kids would act exactly. There were 6 kids that came today. 3 are coming from Lyle Torrent Center which they will come next Tuesday. There is also going to be 1 more next week too, maybe. I am glad we have a small class. There will be 2 aids in my room so that is even nicer!
Ok sorry this is so random but a funny thing today, I was saying something then asked the aide about how they usually do things and she was like "Well you can do whatever you want. You're the teacher!" haha I was like I am not used to that lol It is weird. I mean I always helped other teachers, now I am the teacher! I love it though! But I was tired by the end of the "day" :)
We did a welcome song and told the rules and procedures, walked around the school and they were really quite good at walking in a line! I got rope and tied knots along it and they held onto the knots...It will be good for them to get in that habit of walking in a line down the hall. That is the transition I had to make from 3rd graders to 3 year olds. I mean I know about them but the last thing I taught was third grade and now I have to think like a 3 year old. :) They are sooo cute though and I love to hear their thoughts on things. We went outside and played on their little playground...I feel bad though because they had to have a few things taken out because of licensing....I dunno details but because of different "dangers." We also played in the sand table. THEY LOVED That! Ya, that is one thing I have to work on is...they all wanna play with different toys whenever they want so we will work on that :)
There is so much I can say...so I will just stop now ...gotta figure out what I wanna do tomorrow...I still feel kinda scatterbrained cuz of all the little things I need to think about now...like the newsletters go on renweb now and gotta figure out snacks for the whole week cuz we have to put it in the newsletter. I couldnt get into renweb today so that was frustrating...we do attendance on it toooooooo :/ anyways, and then the auction...and then the open house on thurs nite~ ANYWAYS........day 1 was good...and I wont write everyday but the highlights. I figured I would write about the first day :) also I just wanted to! haha

Encouragement Today

2009-08-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

My devotion today:

"Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,whose hope is in the LORD his God, the Maker of heaven and earth,the sea, and everything in them-the LORD, who remains faithful forever." Psalm 146:5

Anyone who places their trust or hope in people will ultimately be disappointed, since no one has the ability, permanence, integrity, or reliability to perfectly keep their promises or meet others expectations.
In contrast, God existed throughout all eternity and created everything in existence, and He has governed and guided His creation throughout the eons. He is also perfectly good and faithful to keep His promises, and He always acts for His children's benefit. Therefore, those who follow God can trust that He will guide our lives toward beneficial ends, according to His eternal perspective. Moreover, He will never abandon us.

I needed this today and I realize God never ceases to amaze me. When I need something, there is always a scripture about it...I am struggling with physical symptoms that are unexplainable and I get worried and anxious and I had a hard night last nite. This morning I read this... I keep praying ....I am more than a conquerer and God is working in me and making me stronger.

Anyways.....I met 6 of my kiddies today...they are adorable... I am excited to be their teacher and learn mroe about them and have fun!

Just my thoughts...

2009-08-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

First meeting day at school:
It was a long day but exciting cuz it is my first official meeting as a real teacher :) It was good but long. Prof Linton from SAU actually came to talk about cultures etc and students that come to our schools from other countries..(JCS has been having more and more Korean students come) :) Then we watched a video about Christian schools and the mission...I truly believe in and am a big advocate of Christian schools! The main point in the video about Christian schools is to disciple. It is all for the Kingdom of God...and I am not saying Public schools are bad and Christians shouldnt be in there so I am not saying that so...... lol

The vision statement of Jackson Christian School is "Jackson Christian School students will possess wisdom, knowledge and a Biblical worldview resulting in a lifestyle of Godly character, leadership, service, stewardship and worship." and the mission statement is: "...Equipping Students to Impact the World for Christ."

I believe in those statements and I want to be a part of letting Jesus shine through me to help guide children in the way they should go according to the Bible. :) It may sound very cliche but to me it is not... and my hope is that when people leave Jackson Christian, they would hold onto their convictions and strive to lead other people to Jesus and show them the way they should act/think/live according to the Bible. It is sooo sad to me when I see people being influenced by the world rather than the other way around. My question is when did they fall off the wagon? What happened? Or they just fell for what the world had to offer....anyways that is just my thoughts today and my rant...I am not perfect AT ALL...I need to give everything to God everyday because I struggle with so much especially with worries etc...but I want to please God...he says in John 14:15 "If you love me, you will obey my commands." That is what I strive to do...which I dont and no one can be perfect cuz no one is Jesus but I want to be more like him. :)

Anyways I am done and we have more meetings tomorrow!

Frustrations and Falls

2009-08-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

This has been a frustrating blog experience...I have had issues with my other accounts and cant get into them but I think I figured it out now.....so there ya go.....anyways I fell down the stairs today. That doesnt suprise you if you know me well........and usually I would laugh.....but it hurt BAD today....I was carrying the saucer down the stairs and slipped, felt banged my head and neck back and my neck kills SOOOOOOOO bad...like going to lay my head down, all the muscles...and i have 2 bruises on my lower back and etc...(sigh) oh well...gotta go to t he chiropractor!! That is enough for now. I am tired and sore.