Two boys and a girl

A Short, Free eBook on Abortion

2012-01-20T16:01:00.000-06:00

Christmas

2011-12-16T14:49:00.001-06:00

Caden loves to dance. We have music on all day, radio or if I find something great over YouTube. When he wants some dance time, he'll come to me, take what I'm doing at that moment, put it aside and pull my leg and say "dance". I guess I did dance a lot with him over the last 2 years and he must have inherited my love for music. Now he's creating moves of his own. Helps to have an amazing dance teacher ;).

Interesting what ive discovered this week. We're going through some stuff over here and I had this vision of what Christmas would look like, realizing this week that although Christmas will still be wonderful, it might be a tad different than my idea in my head. Caden and I during the daytime this month have been mostly listening to the Christian music station. They have mostly music that meets "the real meaning of the season". One day I switched it to another station in our fine city and it was VASTLY different messaging. Wow, it hit me. I'm sure there are a lot of people who don't have this "Christmas time" that media/culture leads us to believe is "normal". I wonder how deeply that affects people in the season, really? I know and have always known the real meaning of the season, but how often are we lead astray or led to want that "societal ideal" for Christmas? What things do we do at Christmas that we believe we have to do or feel forced to do to have a "Merry Christmas"?

Like other things in life, we have to be cogniscent of when society creates an ideal and what reality and life should mean to us and those close to us.

I think the message God wanted me to get this week, was that, Jesus came at Christmas, born not coincidentally, but divinely, in a stable. A barn. No matter what Christmas holds for us, He came for you and me, to be a part of our lives, every season of our lives. Not in a five star hospital or hotel room. He came for us, to live and experience real life as we do, the joy and the hardships, then give the ultimate gift of salvation if we accept that gift. If we do accept it, our eyes will see the world differently and if we do fall into a cultural trap, we can be led out and brought back to the real meanings of our life here.

Merry Christmas, and I mean that no matter what circumstances surround you this time of the year. Might you experience Jesus comfort in hardship or thank Him in times of joy. Praise God He sent Jesus, the Saviour of the world.

Mad at a Myth

2011-12-08T21:38:00.000-06:00

Sean Quigley - Little Drummer Boy

2011-12-03T08:26:00.000-06:00

"This song is about Jesus, that's what its about." - Sean Quigley

http://www.winnipegsun.com/2011/12/01/winnipeg-teen-drums-up-viral-hit

Caden got a set of drums for his 1 yr birthday as a gift (just a Elmo set). We put it away then, the sticks were just dangerous!! So, about a week ago we pulled it out for him, he likes his drums now and he likes this video. Right now he is walking around the house with my Iphone and he's got this video playing, all drums baby! and all for Jesus! :)

Racial / Justice Issues

2011-11-29T19:31:00.001-06:00

http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/thabitianyabwile/2011/11/08/colorblind-and-justice-blind/

I relate to what Dr. John Piper states about his upbringing, thankful for the growth I've experienced in my faith to see who Jesus really is...hmmm, lots to say, not sure how to put it down.

(Tiff, this isn't a response to your post, I just stumbled upon this tonight, I appreciate John Piper and value these videos and had to share :)

Victory, Sweet Victory!! PTL

2011-10-27T14:39:00.000-05:00

Garden - Needtobreathe

2011-10-27T12:26:00.000-05:00

Mama, this one's for you!

2011-10-20T11:53:00.000-05:00

I remember being young(!)-er at home and there was sometimes things that my parents would do, that I said I wouldn't do or I would do differently, or at least I thought this at the time. Some of them revolved around food :), surprise, surprise. While my Mom did ~~lots~~ all the cooking, she always had to be pretty conservative and efficient with the food. Not much went to waste, and even waste meant that the dog was fed.

Yesterday I started a quest to make my first ever turkey soup. I've done chicken noodle, but don't really remember having to go through such a process. I decided to attempt as real to true homemade turkey soup could come. I don't really remember exactly how Mom made it, I never really watched closely at what went into the food. While I could have asked my Mom how to do it, I decided to google a recipe and see what I came up with. Well, what do you know, I found a recipe with Eastern European roots. Basically the same thing as my Mama and Grandma's have been doing for years, naturally, as we are all Eastern European descent.

So, yesterday, I threw everything into my big soup stock pot (one of my aunt's gave us as a shower gift), the turkey bone, water, and veggies with peppercorns. Let it boil for 6 hrs and put it in the garage overnight (just like Mom always did, flavour is amazing the day after!). So, today, I brought it in the house, sifted everything from the broth, veggies/meat/bones, everything out. As you can see I wanted to save as much broth as I could, so I put it in colanders with bowl beneath. Then came the dirty work, the thing I said I'd NEVER do when I was in my own kitchen. I'd watch my Mom pick that chicken or turkey right apart, right down to the bone, saving every little piece of meat, even the meat of the neck, YUCK! Her hands were greasy, ugh, I was always disgusted with it. I would say at the time in my head, "at my house, we would eat what was easily accessible off that bird and the rest was going in the garbage", there was no way I was gonna pick those things clean.

Well, never ever say Never.

It wasn't as bad a process as I thought. I picked and sifted. I was pretty determined to make this soup true to recipe and the smell of it simmering yesterday had me even more determined. Today we'll throw the actual meat, fresh carrots and noodles back in the pot, add a few more seasonings and TASTE!!

I'm delighted to try it, hopefully early this afternoon!!!

Thanks Mom for showing us to not be wasteful, every good gift is a gift from God, even if you have to feed your kids neck meat ;).
(no, i didn't put the neck meat in the soup :/ feed it to the stray cats out back ;)...all the cat lovers just balked, I'm kidding!!)

love you Mom.

Squirmy Worms

2011-10-11T16:34:00.000-05:00

I watched some John Piper today, with anything I've read from Piper, I've agreed with, he is a sound man of God.

I really don't want to open a can of worms here, but I couldn't agree with him more on this topic. I've had conversations with those who work and those who don't work. On the work side, I get a lot of worries about Finances. How are we going to manage on only one income??? It is a legitimate concern, I feel especially for those who live in expensive markets (Winnipeg vs. small town)

This was definitely a concern for Quinn and I when Caden was in the womb. We were surprised with Caden, it wasn't 'our' plan, but we decided while he was still in womb, I would stay at home (not working away-from-home) for the first 5 years-ish of the child's life and then maybe work part-time depending on the needs of the kids. Kids before job always. We were no where near our financial goals before we wanted to start having kids. We lived in a 1BR apartment, had too much debt (we thought), and at least I was anxious, about 'All-the- work' kids are, didn't feel ready for it. Financially on Quinn's wage, we would have to really, really tighten our budget. Quinn was just out of college and only worked at his sales job for 1 year, which is a short-time in a sales career.

But we felt it was right, that was what kids needed, our kids needed. Surely our parents would help financially if we were in a serious bind (we hoped :).

We trusted and we prayed. If God calls you to something, He Will Provide. We might not be able to see how it will happen, but He does. In the last 3 years we've seen it time and time again in our lives. A house? Do you really need a house or is it a societal demand, a cultural pressure, you're looked down on if you live in an apartment with your kids? How much money do you really need, what kind of lifestyle do you think you need? Is society ruling you or do you want God to direct your life? We were willing to take on 2 kids in an apartment, God provided us with a house and parents willing to help. Will we need the help, what does the future really hold that He put us here?? Who knows, just trusting. Don't get me wrong, we've made our own decisions in this ride, which probably weren't what God wanted, mistakes happen, God gives Grace.

This is my response to the 'Financial' question. Don't discount God, like my good friend said when I was hesitant for financial reasons to go on a missions trip: "Just Go, God has lots of money" ;)

We gotta stop believing we have all the control.

What to do...

2011-10-11T14:35:00.000-05:00

The past week-ish I've been pondering, how can we make a difference this Halloween? Probably should be something I could have earnestly prayed about in the last week, but that's another post about struggling in prayer life (bump in road).
Although, I know this topic has been on my mind for a reason, I'm glad its there. I recently read this article, liked what the author had to say and the verses he imparted (1 Corinth 13:10). It IS Another day we can glorify God, and do the Will of God. I like the idea of handing out candy (hello, kids are coming to YOU!!) and handing out something more edifying than candy, with the candy. Our church has a ton of kids programs, so I ran it past Quinn about a little card with all the kids programs, times and dates, info listed. Talking to the church about that. So, I think its something I'll continue to pray about. This is the first year as a family we'll have kids at our door, as previous apartment dwellers, we did not get kids, but now in a residential house, we have the opportunity. Also not sure how many kids will come by, haven't seen a lot of young children on our street, but the quantity is not an issue. Oh, and also this is a quality opportunity to meet more neighbors, parents often walk around with their kids, right?

What to do...

moving

2011-09-21T14:59:00.000-05:00

Aslan, we're on the move!!

I always think of Aslan (Chronicles of Narnia), when it comes to moving, don't know why...does God move us??

Anyhoo, yep got into a house, a rental from some wonderful church people who wanted someone to take care of their potential retirement home in a few years. Yep, we're here, take us!! and they did. Aaaand, we're taking Quinn's parents with us, come along now! (I'm writing this blog with expressions and funny voices in my head, but its not translating to paper, sorry.)
That makes the total rent cheaper for us than renting the apt, yay for cost savings, and, in the past, we've lived with Quinn's parents for almost 2 months in a 2 bdrm apt, so a house will feel oh-so-roomy to all of us.

We're very pumped, here's some of the pros I've been thinking about the last month-ish:

PROS:
- a backyard for Caden!
- a 2-car garage (we'll be able to clean our truck in a garage, wow!!!)
- Daylight coming into all 4 sides of the house, instead of 1 in the apartment
- We had to get a new washer/dryer for the place...all the Mamas say ooooh, ahhhhh
- I'm not a huge AC person, but there is central air, as opposed to one unit blowing on you in the living room.
- South facing kitchen, sipping Java in the sun...mmmm
- Not carrying boat loads of groceries up the sidewalk, thru 3 doors, while juggling a baby. Park truck in garage and unload at leisure.
- BIG PERK - no marijuana/smoke smell wafting into our home!! yay
**funny story--I'm kinda naive with this stuff, so it was our friends that told us "why does your hallway smell like marijuana??"...ya. It's only been the last month that someone moved in across the hallway and decided to smoke marijuana every single day. We have a towel by our front door to keep the smell out and all our air exchange vents are covered in plastic. Yes- the builders decided it would be a good idea to put an air exchanger thru everyone's apartment and the hallways and move everyone's apt air to everyone else's apartment air...are you dumb??? There must be laws against that. Yes, I would love for the smoking units air to come into my apartment and my good smelling air to go clear their apartment out. Yowzers. I talked with my neighbour today, she has a young baby, she's pretty annoyed. Apparently she called the office and they told her, "well, it could be medicinal" ?!?!? seriously? really? I called police today, they said they can't do much, unless its happening the very moment, so i told them it was, i doubt they'll come. I called the Bldg Manager today and she seemed really concerned and said it wasn't something they wanted, so hopefully something will be done. I know I move this wknd, but seriously, its not fair to everyone else living here. My neighbour hopes to move by December, I'm praying for their sake they can move sooner. That's my pot rant. I'm glad the Fed gov't is clamping down on pot smokers/growers.

Anyhoo, there of course are lots of great things about living in a house, but truly, since we moved here in November, we've been very grateful for this place, for all the things we have, that allow us to live and love others in our place. We plan to continue and do more of that hospitality type stuff in the new place. The area we live has been great too, lots of nice trails, park, I lost 10 lbs and gained some form, this spring running those trails! AND, thankfully we're only moving 1km away to the house, so we'll still have access to all the great trails, BING!

We did not expect this kind of change this soon in our lives, we anticipated it much further down the road, but God plans and ways are way above ours and brought this at EXACTLY the perfect time, it is perfect time. Wow.

Godly Women Part 2

2011-09-19T11:27:00.001-05:00

They posted Part 2 today, have to share :)

http://theresurgence.com/2011/09/19/what-is-beautiful

Godly Woman

2011-09-13T11:47:00.002-05:00

I appreciate this church and how it gives away all its teaching...I appreciated this post today :)

http://pastormark.tv/2011/09/12/godly-wife-woman-mother-friend

Job

2011-08-31T13:05:00.002-05:00

This mornings DAB reading was from Job, God's reply to Job's questions. Funny how in Sunday School we learned about Job...that he had everything, wife, kids, big farm. Then it all got taken away from him, wife and kids died, farm destroyed and he was left sitting, covered in boils, under a tree. But he trusted God, he never wavered (at least that's what I remember learning), then eventually God blessed him with more than he had before.

Reading Job now, wow, its soo different, it was not that simple. Yes, Job did not deny God, but he certainly had questions and he had some pretty serious conversations with God.

In today's reading, God replies to some of Job's questions, if you care to read...

JOB 38: 1 - 40:2

¹ Then the LORD spoke to Job out of the storm. He said:

² “Who is this that obscures my plans
with words without knowledge?
³ Brace yourself like a man;
I will question you,
and you shall answer me.

⁴ “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?
Tell me, if you understand.
⁵ Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know!
Who stretched a measuring line across it?
⁶ On what were its footings set,
or who laid its cornerstone—
⁷ while the morning stars sang together
and all the angels^[a] shouted for joy?

⁸ “Who shut up the sea behind doors
when it burst forth from the womb,
⁹ when I made the clouds its garment
and wrapped it in thick darkness,
¹⁰ when I fixed limits for it
and set its doors and bars in place,
¹¹ when I said, ‘This far you may come and no farther;
here is where your proud waves halt’?

¹² “Have you ever given orders to the morning,
or shown the dawn its place,
¹³ that it might take the earth by the edges
and shake the wicked out of it?
¹⁴ The earth takes shape like clay under a seal;
its features stand out like those of a garment.
¹⁵ The wicked are denied their light,
and their upraised arm is broken.

¹⁶ “Have you journeyed to the springs of the sea
or walked in the recesses of the deep?
¹⁷ Have the gates of death been shown to you?
Have you seen the gates of the deepest darkness?
¹⁸ Have you comprehended the vast expanses of the earth?
Tell me, if you know all this.

¹⁹ “What is the way to the abode of light?
And where does darkness reside?
²⁰ Can you take them to their places?
Do you know the paths to their dwellings?
²¹ Surely you know, for you were already born!
You have lived so many years!

²² “Have you entered the storehouses of the snow
or seen the storehouses of the hail,
²³ which I reserve for times of trouble,
for days of war and battle?
²⁴ What is the way to the place where the lightning is dispersed,
or the place where the east winds are scattered over the earth?
²⁵ Who cuts a channel for the torrents of rain,
and a path for the thunderstorm,
²⁶ to water a land where no one lives,
an uninhabited desert,
²⁷ to satisfy a desolate wasteland
and make it sprout with grass?
²⁸ Does the rain have a father?
Who fathers the drops of dew?
²⁹ From whose womb comes the ice?
Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens
³⁰ when the waters become hard as stone,
when the surface of the deep is frozen?

³¹ “Can you bind the chains^[b] of the Pleiades?
Can you loosen Orion’s belt?
³² Can you bring forth the constellations in their seasons^[c]
or lead out the Bear^[d] with its cubs?
³³ Do you know the laws of the heavens?
Can you set up God’s^[e] dominion over the earth?

³⁴ “Can you raise your voice to the clouds
and cover yourself with a flood of water?
³⁵ Do you send the lightning bolts on their way?
Do they report to you, ‘Here we are’?
³⁶ Who gives the ibis wisdom^[f]
or gives the rooster understanding?^[g]
³⁷ Who has the wisdom to count the clouds?
Who can tip over the water jars of the heavens
³⁸ when the dust becomes hard
and the clods of earth stick together?

³⁹ “Do you hunt the prey for the lioness
and satisfy the hunger of the lions
⁴⁰ when they crouch in their dens
or lie in wait in a thicket?
⁴¹ Who provides food for the raven
when its young cry out to God
and wander about for lack of food?

¹ “Do you know when the mountain goats give birth?
Do you watch when the doe bears her fawn?
² Do you count the months till they bear?
Do you know the time they give birth?
³ They crouch down and bring forth their young;
their labor pains are ended.
⁴ Their young thrive and grow strong in the wilds;
they leave and do not return.

⁵ “Who let the wild donkey go free?
Who untied its ropes?
⁶ I gave it the wasteland as its home,
the salt flats as its habitat.
⁷ It laughs at the commotion in the town;
it does not hear a driver’s shout.
⁸ It ranges the hills for its pasture
and searches for any green thing.

⁹ “Will the wild ox consent to serve you?
Will it stay by your manger at night?
¹⁰ Can you hold it to the furrow with a harness?
Will it till the valleys behind you?
¹¹ Will you rely on it for its great strength?
Will you leave your heavy work to it?
¹² Can you trust it to haul in your grain
and bring it to your threshing floor?

¹³ “The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully,
though they cannot compare
with the wings and feathers of the stork.
¹⁴ She lays her eggs on the ground
and lets them warm in the sand,
¹⁵ unmindful that a foot may crush them,
that some wild animal may trample them.
¹⁶ She treats her young harshly, as if they were not hers;
she cares not that her labor was in vain,
¹⁷ for God did not endow her with wisdom
or give her a share of good sense.
¹⁸ Yet when she spreads her feathers to run,
she laughs at horse and rider.

¹⁹ “Do you give the horse its strength
or clothe its neck with a flowing mane?
²⁰ Do you make it leap like a locust,
striking terror with its proud snorting?
²¹ It paws fiercely, rejoicing in its strength,
and charges into the fray.
²² It laughs at fear, afraid of nothing;
it does not shy away from the sword.
²³ The quiver rattles against its side,
along with the flashing spear and lance.
²⁴ In frenzied excitement it eats up the ground;
it cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds.
²⁵ At the blast of the trumpet it snorts, ‘Aha!’
It catches the scent of battle from afar,
the shout of commanders and the battle cry.

²⁶ “Does the hawk take flight by your wisdom
and spread its wings toward the south?
²⁷ Does the eagle soar at your command
and build its nest on high?
²⁸ It dwells on a cliff and stays there at night;
a rocky crag is its stronghold.
²⁹ From there it looks for food;
its eyes detect it from afar.
³⁰ Its young ones feast on blood,
and where the slain are, there it is.”

¹ The LORD said to Job:

² “Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him?
Let him who accuses God answer him!”

God tried to get through to Job, for Job to understand that He cares about him and loves him. God feeds the very bird outside my window!! A story of God's care for me: I always go back to the time my parents were quite poor, we never knew it as kids at the time. Our parents told us years later, they were severely under the poverty line one year. I don't remember the time, probably because I was never starving, thirsty, unclothed, homeless, unloved, never. God took care of a large family, provided our needs fully through very challenging times. It's something I carry with me and if hard times ever fall on us or me, I can recall that memory or read Job.

update...

2011-08-31T12:16:00.002-05:00

Obviously, I've been putting off this update. It's not the update I wanted to write, but its not about me, its not all about my wants.

After 4.5 days of straight underwear for Caden, we went back to diapers. Stopped potty training. We still tell Caden when we are going pee or poo, so he keeps learning about the consistency, but we don't ask him to go on the toilet. We're stopping for a month, 2 or 3 until he shows just a bit more "want" to go on the toilet. His toilet options are still in the washroom too, so that is a visible reminder. Every aspect of the 3 Day Potty Training program Caden was good with, except "wanting" to go pee or poo on the toilet. He understood it all. I found out he can hold his pee and poo for an awful long time, so the control is there. We both learned an awful lot, hoping Caden retains some of that knowledge for the next go-round.

The next go-round I plan to utilize the 3 Day technique again, straight underwear, positive, praiseful, tons of grace. (Again, I would not have had the patience and grace without God and the prayers of my family and friends, THANK YOU!) I believe in the 3 Day program still, maybe 3 days is unrealistic for some children, maybe 22 months is unrealistic for some children. Maybe the author of the program has a certain personality that worked in training her 5 children at that age, I don't know. I don't regret trying it, it taught all 3 of us in different ways.

And thanks to you who gave me reassurance that it was ok to stop the program and try again later (it tears me up, you are all sooo good!).

Last week also made me see, that although we know what is good for our child and really WANT him to do something, he has to have the want, the desire has to be his as well.

How blessed we are to have Caden, he is a supreme joy in our lives, love him!

update...

2011-08-23T11:49:00.004-05:00

Caden's in a nap time now, allowed me some elliptical time and a quick update...

*Confidence..."when your hill is high and you're afraid to try, Confidence will take you up to the sky" lyrics from Caden's DVD we listened to this morning.

*Patience - my patience, i believe has been sustained by your prayers

*Grace - also offered tons of grace after mistakes, God grants us sooo much grace when we're learning, how can I not offer unlimited!

I certainly am not perfect at these traits, but God has offered me much help in these areas the last day and a half.

3 words that have struck a cord yesterday and today...I felt in my heart this morning, that this IS something Caden can do, I have MUCH confidence in him. I've gained confidence in myself to be able to do this as well.

Thanks for your prayers all, we're still in the thick of the training, Caden has not had a BM in a day and a half, so hoping he's not holding that in...9 pee accidents yest and 3 so far today. Nap time yest...no pee, overnight - he only peed around 6am in his bed, slept the whole night through!!

thanks for your continued prayers.

it's here...i think.

2011-08-18T08:48:00.002-05:00

well, a while ago, Tiffany blogged and told me about this 3 day toilet training deal. I looked it up, read the 30 page manual and convinced myself I was gonna go for it at the 22 month mark. Caden is now 22 months.... :/

I have booked next week "off", no play dates, no errands, staying at home (as the manual states). Last night we took Caden to buy supplies. We let him pick a stand alone toilet seat as well as a toilet seat cover. Then we went and bought some underwear, which he happily carried to the cashier until he got tired and had me carry him. This morning, I pulled his underwear out of the package, he took a pair and tried to put them on himself. He doesn't dress himself at all really yet, but he likes to try, put the underwear down by his feet, not understanding you have to lift those feet off the ground. So I helped him put them on over his pajama shorts and his diaper. Hopefully this won't confuse him for next week when I tell him we're wearing them on their own.

Monday morning I plan to, with Caden, throw his existing diapers in the 'garbage' (clean garbage bag, I'll donate them later, but I want that visual for him). Then start the 3-day process.

This morning Caden was in the washroom with me, playing and checking out his new toilet options. I think he's getting it and I'm happy that he's more into the toilet seat cover and stool for the actual toilet.

A couple friends have strongly encouraged me to go for it, to try it and if it absolutely doesn't work after the 3 days, to let it go and try again in a month or two.

So, come Monday, I may not be on the computer a lot or at all, as my attention will be 100% over there, but I'm asking for prayer that I will exemplify tons of grace, patience and heaps of praise.

intercessory

2011-08-08T11:14:00.004-05:00

This msg was a note I sent to a friend recently as we've been discussing prayer and growing in God, hope you don't mind ____ that I posted this as a blog :)

"If we truly love people, we will desire for them far more than it is within our power to give them, and this will lead us to prayer: Intercession is a way of loving others."—Richard J. Foster

Caden and I were outside the other morning, couple guys were installing park benches beside our apt bldg. one of the guys installing the park benches was native, long hair in a ponytail. An old guy (tenant) was chatting with him and Caden and I were hanging around watching them work. The native said that he gets judged easily, on the news when they describe someone who committed a crime, they'll say, Native, Long Hair, about 5'10"...he said that's all the guys in the North End! so he gets judged easily. He said he's not like the guys who are causing trouble, but he gets judged easily b/c of what they do. He grew up mostly with a white family he said, a German family, so he grew up differently, they loved him like their own.
Glad that those guys had that conversation, helped my eyes to be open even more.
Realizing lately loving 'random people' takes a lot of guts, at least for me. Being willing to say Hi and talk to people humbly. I have recently been praying for courage and no fear, so I can speak boldly on Christ's behalf. I think it's working...that quote speaks to me about LOVING people...I can use the excuse that I'm shy, but that's just an excuse and then I'm not willing to be used by God. I do desire loads more for people than I can give them (financially or personal attn), but I know God has the means to do so. So intercessory is also necessary.

prayer

2011-07-27T13:05:00.002-05:00

Yesterday in a tragic accident, my sister's Father-in-law passed away. My brother-in-law and sister are hurting, as is the family and extended family. Very, very hard time for the family, wife, 3 kids, 2 with spouses and 2.5 grandkids, all live in relatively the same area, now without their husband, Dad and Grandpa.

If you have a moment, pray for the Martens' family.

Don't Repost this...

2011-07-26T11:38:00.004-05:00

My response to a "re-post" status I saw on Facebook:

Re-post status found on a friend's page:

In Canada - The Homeless go without eating.
In Canada - The Elderly go without needed medicines.
In Canada - The Mentally ill go without treatment.
In Canada - Our Troops go without proper equipment.
In Canada - Our Veterans go without benefits they were promised.
Yet we donate billions to other countries before helping our own first. Have the guts to re-post this. 1% will re-post, 99% won't

My response:

In Canada, we are rich and have an enormous opportunity to be generous in all things, financially and our time. We are Canada, we are this country, we are free to make choices that will impact the Homeless, the Elderly, the Mentally Ill, the Troops and the Veterans. Grateful our government can give money to other countries to help, but even tho we don't have billions personally to give, we can help in small practical ways here and still make big impacts. Don't repost this, just go out and do this.

I didn't respond this way on Facebook, because I would most likely offend, it makes me sad that we put down our government for something so silly. It would be the same as me bashing my church (which, shamefully I have in the past). I am the church, the people in the church are the church. If you bash Canada, you are Canada, you live here, you voted and you impacted the government currently in power. If you don't like a choice they made, write to your MP, voice your concern and pray for them. Yes, they have huge responsibilities and likely, most of us don't know enough background about each decision they make to question it entirely. Being a top 5 country in the world, says a lot. We are rich. Always remember how rich we are. If you think you are poor, you need to visit a 3rd world country. Always remember how rich we are.

love

2011-07-21T13:42:00.003-05:00

I'm a little too serious sometimes. I think I should laugh more, especially with Caden. Quinn makes me laugh, one reason I married him :). I think God gave me this personality for a purpose. Serious in a good way. A way that makes me think often and be concerned for others. My Heart be burdened. My family is at the forefront, then my friends, then people I don't know, that I would like to know and show love to. Sometimes my heart just aches for people and the situations they are in, whether if it is because of a choice they made or something completely out of their control. Sometimes God beats me to the punch, He's already there in those situations while I'm still back thinking about it. Sometimes He uses me to be His hands and feet. My prayer is to be used more by Him. To go without Fear, having courage to pour out love and pour out more and more and more. There will always be extra love to share. I'm thankful for this last half year and what God has showed me and taught me. The Bible and the book "Crazy Love" and Holy Spirit are all to thank. The more I know about God, the more amazing He is. I can't imagine what learning more will reveal to me.

If you have a prayer request anytime, I'd love to pray for you, msg me via FB or email, completely private, I will lift you up, in prayer, to God.

"How can I keep from singing your praise? How can I ever say enough? How amazing is Your love?... I know I am loved by the King and it makes my heart want to sing!!" - Chris Tomlin

undoing busyness

2011-05-24T14:45:00.003-05:00

baaaaahhhhh!!!!

I'm so thankful I'm not unraveling...yet. Back in January when my sister asked me to be Matron of Honour for her, I accepted. I didn't tell her, but I was kinda scared. I'd done lots of bridal party duties before, but now I had a husband and a child! I said then that I was going to prioritize.

1. God

2. Husband

3. Caden

4. Other responsibilities including Maid duties

And, I did well...until crunch time. Yes, I coasted through til April. At the end of April, I knew it was gonna start getting busier, with showers and more and more helping, my duties were piling up, the things I'd been asked to do for her, some big jobs I hadn't even started. I knew May would be busy. Now here we are closing out May.

So in this last week I've been seeing a lack of intimacy/closeness with my husband over May. Enter: busyness. Busyness is an intimacy killer. We had a good chat about it and its me that needs to change - address it and change it. Definitely pray about it. So, yes I know we're still not at the wedding (less than 2 weeks to go), but I'm glad I know what to watch for and if you're praying, can you please pray that God can help me prioritize like I listed, like He wants me to? I'm a bad time manager, prioritizer, so I know the days I pray for TM and Priority help, I notice such a difference.

Busyness

I am very excited for the BIG day! Despite those "worries", I'm there, its so close, its very exciting. We've had all the showers, which were great, my sister agrees - they were blessed like MAD! She already has her dress at home, oh so much is in place. OK, I should go write a list of my to-do's.

Thanks blog readers!

education

2011-05-19T10:01:00.004-05:00

This popped into my inbox this morning, funny! Funny because teaching Caden has been on my mind over the last while...I want to find the balance between teaching him, giving him the education he needs, but also understanding ultimately we don't need to worry about it so much, but hand it over to God. God knew him before he was born and the plans for him, so ultimately I, or we, pray that Caden would be led by God as he matures into a young man and pursue God's plans for him, because I know those plans WILL be so much greater than what our minds can comprehend, we can't see the whole picture, God can, so how can His plan not be so much greater?

Knowledge v. Wisdom

1 Cor 1:20-21: "Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe" (NASU).

The education of our children can be an all-consuming passion. We struggle to get them into the right schools, starting with pre-school and continuing through graduate school, but we must keep in mind that a great education does not guarantee success in God's eyes. Many of today's schools, particularly colleges, consider the message of the cross "foolish". To them it is a sign of weakness, disgrace and low standing. As parents, we must balance that message with the truth that the world's wisdom does not save. The greatest secular education misses the point - only the cross can save.

Wisdom is available when we seek God. When we concentrate our efforts on teaching the value of an eternal perspective, we can worry a little less about the world's view of where wisdom can be found. - Parentingbydesign.com

Spiritual Blindness

2011-05-17T11:48:00.003-05:00

Spiritual Blindness - John 9

³⁵ When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”

³⁶ The man answered, “Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him.”

³⁷ “You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you!”

³⁸ “Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And he worshiped Jesus.

³⁹ Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”

⁴⁰ Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”

⁴¹ “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.

Christian arrogance and spiritual blindness. Being a Christian for many years, getting caught up in arrogance is too common I think. It's been in me for some time. Lately I've been shown and this arrogant veil has been removed, there is no room for being taught - while in an arrogant state of mind. ugh, it disgusts me. After time, we allow our minds to think we know everything there is to know about the Bible, being a Christian and God. "You remain guilty because you claim you can see. - Jesus".

Matthew 18:4

"Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

Luke 14:11

"For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Ephesians 4:2

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love."

James 1:9

"The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position."

James 4:6

"But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

1 Peter 3:8

"[ Suffering for Doing Good ] Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble."

Prayer and the Difference It Makes

2011-05-11T10:38:00.003-05:00

Learning an awful lot about prayer over the last while, just one of the resources is this series of articles:

Prayer and the Difference It Makes

Also, still immersed in the Crazy Love book, teaches about God's crazy love for each of us, so kraaa-zy! Helps with prayer as well. Our small group is very thrilled to be going through it, we haven't done a series this enthusiastically in a while (in my opinion :). mm-mm-mmmm!

2011-04-26T11:35:00.004-05:00

In the Bible reading I follow, today had pieces from Old, New Testaments and Psalms all with similarities - 'irony' in itself, even moreso how it applies to my faith and I'm sure many struggle this way...

1. Judges 6, Gideon is approached by an Angel of the Lord, not believing it is the Lord, he asks for a sign, he gets it, then says to God, 'don't be angry with me, i need one more sign its you', so God in His grace gives him another sign. C'mon! I say, how don't you get that Gideon?! God talked to you, you saw the Angel and yet you needed 2 signs to understand it was Him?! Really?

Ha!

That's so me. I have had prayers clearly answered by God since I was a teenager and yet, nearly 30, I bring something to God, lay it before Him and wonder if He is there, if He hears me or if He cares.

2. Then in Luke's writings of the crucifixion, he recounts Peter. Being a disciple, he saw countless miracles, he knew Jesus was the Messiah, the Lord. Jesus told Him directly days earlier, you will disown me. Peter denied it.

Luke 22:54-62

Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. And when some there had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, “This man was with him.”

But he denied it. “Woman, I don’t know him,” he said.

A little later someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.”

“Man, I am not!” Peter replied.

About an hour later another asserted, “Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.”

Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him:“Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” ⁶² And he went outside and wept bitterly.

God always wins, Jesus always wins. What was Peter scared of? Would he possibly suffer with Jesus? That would be frightening to me too, possibly suffering alongside Him. Jesus rose 3 days later, God won, Satan was defeated. Would I, like Peter, have denied Him out of fear? (shudder).

3. Then in Psalms, they reference the Israelites...

Today, if only you would hear his voice,
“Do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah,
as you did that day at Massah in the wilderness,
where your ancestors tested me;
they tried me, though they had seen what I did.
For forty years I was angry with that generation;
I said, ‘They are a people whose hearts go astray,
and they have not known my ways.’
So I declared on oath in my anger,
‘They shall never enter my rest.’”

The Israelites were flip-flopping - believe God and be taken care of / not believe and be miserable and back and forth, back and forth. I mean seriously how many times before they get it?? Can they not just trust God, for once and for all?? Oh, maybe we're like that too.

What God is showing me, is that He is in each Moment, He creates each moment, He's here. How can we shut Him out of life or moments of life?

The message below I emailed to Quinn on Monday to tell him of my 'vision'.

I drank coffee last night, so couldn't sleep when we went to bed (11:15). I need to stop drinking coffee in the evenings, not good. I was laying there thinking about God and I had a vision, sorta. If i was a graphic designer I'd create a picture, but I'm not, so I'll do my best for you to see it in your mind.

I envisioned a multi storey building, God forms the base of this structure, then on the first floor are big chunk words of "your birth", amongst the words are pillars, each piller has G-O-D lengthways down the side of it, lots of pillars amongst the floor ,to hold up the second floor. The Second floor has the word Education throughout it. Many pillars again with GOD throughout each floor, many, many floors form this building with parts of life, such as your family, friends, knowledge, your marriage, your child(ren), (I didn`t really get past the 'child' floor, prob because I haven`t been there yet) with lots of God pillars throughout each floor, I did understand that the top floor is the end of your life and God pillars are there too.

I don't think the words I wrote justify this image given to me last night, it was beautiful and majestic, lots of strength. I kinda felt compelled to get out of bed and go record it then, but my mind was getting tired. Right after this my arms and hands felt very heavy, like they had mini pillars encasing them, it felt heavy, but it was in a good way, like it was God`s strength right there (hard to explain). I asked Him to release the weight actually because it was preventing me from sleep. :)

I know God was showing me how He is IN each moment of life, he GIVES us each moment and He's with us in each moment, He created each moment and He is in the moment, something we should never forget. He can help us in each moment, He is the moment.

What I know today is, I must be more aware of how I act, react and live each moment. God is with me, he's here.

facebook

2011-04-21T15:34:00.003-05:00

I was thinking this last week how grateful I am for Facebook. Do you know who much it has taught me over the last couple years?? Day in and day out my Newsfeed is FULL of thought provoking, engaging, teaching, God-centered moments. Granted I have kinda made it that way (or it's been provided for me to make it that way). There are people and organizations communicating God's word in ways that others can learn from. Since about 6-7 years ago, I have been drawn to learning (when I joined my church, sermons and reading books), I don't think I've read a fictional book in this time. But this last 2 year period hasn't given me a lot of time to read many non-fiction books either. That's what I like about Facebook, I'm able to read the articles organizations or individuals pass on and still be learning even though I don't have time for big books. As I said I just got the book Crazy Love, my first book in forever and when I do take some time to read it, it's hard to put down.

Of course nothing replaces some non-facebook, get-your-nose in the Bible time. The real Word. Lost track of that over this winter too, now these last few weeks I have done it, it requires discipline for me to just do it. You learn something new each day.

just my thoughts...

Just Stop and Think

2011-04-20T10:16:00.001-05:00

If you got 15, check out this video. Our Bible Study group is doing a series on this popular book, Crazy Love by Francis Chan. This was an introduction video we watched. Very much looking forward to expanding or perhaps changing (!) my view on who God is, His big Greatness. Excited!! If you've read this book, let me know what you learned or thought of it.

blogless funk?

2011-04-19T09:45:00.004-05:00

Think I am in a blogless funk. I have a smidgent of an post idea at times, but can't grasp the whole concept of a blog post, so I don't even start. Just you all know I'm still here, thought I would post something.

It's almost Easter weekend, and Easter has hardly crossed my mind. We had our Palm Sunday service at church this last weekend, that was the start of it for me, I think. Our church always visualizes Palm Sunday in some way, usually containing Palm leaves filling the church, I appreciate that visual so much. This time they had a wooden donkey, Jesus beside, with all His

followers excited, waving palm leaves, celebrating and of course some downer Roman guards had to be around to try to dispel the excitement. And the choir singing Hosanna adds to the message.

Last night I was reminded Easter is so close and I hadn't even thought of how we're going to celebrate this with Caden. A thought ran through my mind that we better get to the store and buy some Easter eggs or Easter decorations, but in the end that wouldn't serve a purpose for Caden anyway and as adults that wouldn't be how I want it celebrated. What to do...

This thought also crossed my mind recently...What a total injustice Jesus went through. I mean, can you imagine, having done absolutely NOTHING against the law and suffering as he did??!?

After being slapped in the face by the man who arrested him, Jesus says (from the Book of John)...

“If I said something wrong,” Jesus replied, “testify as to what is wrong. But if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?”

The captor didn't answer, but sent him to the high priest for further questioning.

I find the conversation between Jesus and Pilate (Roman Governor) intriguing every time I read it...

From the Book of John:

Then the Jewish leaders took Jesus from Caiaphas to the palace of the Roman governor. By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness they did not enter the palace, because they wanted to be able to eat the Passover. So Pilate came out to them and asked, “What charges are you bringing against this man?”“If he were not a criminal,” they replied, “we would not have handed him over to you.”

Pilate said, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.”

“But we have no right to execute anyone,” they objected. ³² This took place to fulfill what Jesus had said about the kind of death he was going to die.

Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”

“Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?”

“Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “Your own people and chief priests handed you over to me. What is it you have done?”

Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

“You are a king, then!” said Pilate.

Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

“What is truth?” retorted Pilate. With this he went out again to the Jews gathered there and said, “I find no basis for a charge against him. ³⁹ But it is your custom for me to release to you one prisoner at the time of the Passover. Do you want me to release ‘the king of the Jews’?”

They shouted back, “No, not him! Give us Barabbas!” Now Barabbas had taken part in an uprising.

Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. ² The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe ³ and went up to him again and again, saying, “Hail, king of the Jews!” And they slapped him in the face.

Falsely accused, slapped, flogged, spit on, struck with a staff, insulted, made to wear a crown of thorns, betrayed by His friends and loved ones, made to carry a wooden cross and crucified - Jesus. There is injustice around the world today and we've witnessed or know of accounts, however this one recorded several times in the Bible (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) and prophesied of in the Old Testament, is ultimate. The perfect one, the King, sacrificed for us, so we could simply repent of our sin and be given Eternal Life through Grace and Forgiveness.

What is the GOSPEL? - Propaganda (Dare 2 Share)

2011-04-13T11:56:00.001-05:00

KimyalBible10minute

2011-03-03T10:36:00.000-06:00

My cousin Nancy shared this on Facebook, just beautiful.

underserving

2011-02-24T09:35:00.004-06:00

Walter Astrada - photojournalist

this thought has surfaced my mind here and there the last few weeks...how we are undeserving, completely. We don't deserve to have a great husband, sweet baby, great parents, family, good friends, a roof over our heads, abundant food, etc, etc...the only reason we have it is by God's grace.

Today in my daily parenting email, some very relevant words:

Deut. 6:10-12: When the Lord your God brings you into... a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant—then when you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery (NIV).

- It is so easy to take credit for the good things we acquire. But, we must not forget (or let our children forget) that all of our material possessions are blessings that God, in His grace, allowed us to have.

- Despite what our culture may tell us, we have not earned our material blessings. There are others in less fortunate parts of the world who are far more deserving.

- Others have worked harder for less, yet still humbly accept the blessings God gives them as more than they deserve. (bolding mine)

- Humble yourself and thank God for the blessings He gives you.

(Parenting By Design, Chris & Michelle Groff)

man, oh man, how often i forget to humbly thank Him for what I, we, have.

Edify one another...with cake?

2011-02-07T11:35:00.004-06:00

"valleys" continue to be on my mind, especially when I see a friend or loved one in a valley. They definitely are inevitable, valleys come.

As I think of friends in valleys, they surface my thoughts constantly throughout the day, I pray for them and then I try to act. Maybe a phone call, text, email or cake.

One friend said sometime ago how much she loves my apple cake and guess what? I bought apples on the weekend. Why? They were on sale, February is Apple Month.

The Valley came. Apple cake is in the oven.

As I was mixing the cake this morning, the scripture came to mind "edify one another", a piece of a verse in Romans. I also like this verse from 1 Thessalonians 5:11: Therefore comfort yourselves together and edify one another, even as also ye do. (NKJV)

This time, I Edify with cake, and pray that those in the valley can know Jesus is with them, "walking" (Psalm 23:4) with them through the valley.

As Dr. Charles Stanley put it:

- The deeper the valley, the greater the work God will be able to do through it.

- We learn more in a valley experience than we do on the mountain top.

- In hard times, we are far more likely to discover how to rely on God than when things are going well.

- The most significant seasons of spiritual growth
in your life have probably corresponded with the
hardest circumstances you have experienced.

Inevitable Valley in Life

2011-01-31T16:40:00.000-06:00

Valleys in life are inevitable, as the video states, sometimes you're on a mountaintop, sometimes the valley. Dr. Charles Stanley talks about Psalm 23 and valleys.

Took a few minutes for me to get into this one, but I'm glad I kept listening, powerful truth!

This Week on TV

quote for today

2011-01-20T14:50:00.001-06:00

R.C. Sproul: God just doesn't throw a life preserver to a drowning person. He goes to the bottom of the sea, pulls up a corpse, takes him up on the bank, breathes the breath of life into him, and makes him alive.

resolve

2011-01-12T11:26:00.003-06:00

Encouraging blogs, encouraging posts...

I read the blog Blessings and Glory, as you can see on my list on the right.

Quoting what she wrote:

"“When you talk, do not say harmful things, but say what people need—words that will help others become stronger.“ Ephesians 4:29 (NCV)

Ann writes a bit more about why our words, especially as mothers matter most:

All the words I had ever spoken, they are making my children who they are. What we speak into others, this is what they become."

I can see in reflection times I've messed this one up and the implications of it. What a prayer for a New Year. I pray it for me too, to my husband, to my son, to all whom I encounter.

Spider Monkey

2011-01-12T08:28:00.003-06:00

Here we go! The wedding planning has begun. My sister is engaged and to be married in June! She asked me to be her maid of honour. I am honoured!

phew! The day she asked me I prayed that I would not feel overwhelmed over the next 5 or so months, that I would relinquish worry and control over to Him. My first time as a bridesmaid being married and with a child, I'm still honoured!

So, I've obviously been thinking about toning up over the last week (as per comment in Tiffany's post). Since pregnancy and breastfeeding I've been trying to eat better, it's pretty hard to change some of those eating habits after 22 months. Continual eating, snacking, night snacks, it adds up. My aunt who has the metabolism of a spider monkey at 39, said to me she did no exercise in first year of baby, then eased into it after that, oh that was an encouraging comment. I did a small amount of exercise in the summer and fall, now is time for more. The elliptical is ready to go and excited for running in the spring. I have a few people around me to hold me accountable. (insert mother-in-law here ;)

2011-01-09T08:14:00.002-06:00

Caden just loves snitching our phones whenever they are remotely within reach. He presses some buttons then wanders around chatting in the phone, almost yelling. Guess he likes the technology overall, remotes, dvd player, our computer, he is there!

little character

2011-01-06T10:08:00.002-06:00

When Caden wants a book read to him and I am on the couch, he'll pass me the book then try to get on or make noises so I will help him up to read the book to him.

Just started signing after months of trying to get him there. (persistance pays off!!!) He'll sign Please and More, we're working on Thank You and Drink.

We bought him mega blocks for Christmas, after a couple weeks of destroying what we build or taking apart blocks, he's starting to build his own, so cute to watch his attentiveness.

We have a puppy living across the hallway, when it barks Caden goes to our door and listens closely, then barking back "whoo, whoo, whoo".

The Music! He's such a music guy. He likes having some kind of music playing, if nothing is on, he'll bring the remote to me, and telling me in his babble to turn it up. When we drive he does much better in his seat if there is music on. The vehicle is always running when we go out to it, so the music is on when he's put in his seat, which is helpful, he'll start bobbing his head to music and be preoccupied with it while I buckle him in. At Grandparents Zacks at Christmas, they had they're cd player on a tv tray, with a little stool beside it - didn't take him long to figure out where Play was, he'd climb on the stool, press Play and start swaying.

The Swaying: When music is on, he'll stand at the entertainment unit and sway from side to side, these are his dance moves. Lately he'll also sway to other noise. If the dishwasher is running, and he happens to be in the area, he'll stand and sway to the noise.

The Vacuum: Caden has liked the vacuum cleaner for some time, he'll follow us around the house as we vacuum, sometimes he'll gather the cord and pull it closer to the unit (maybe he's seen me do that for Quinn). He'll sometimes sway to the sound of vacuum too.

Just some of the cute things Caden is up to!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T08:19:00.002-06:00

Hi Blogging friends,

Hope each one of you have a very merry Christmas, cherishing the time with your loved ones and celebrating Jesus birthday. I feel very blessed for the family and friends I have.

Love,

Lyla

adventless?

2010-12-22T13:54:00.004-06:00

It's Christmas. Since my post on Advent, I really feel that I failed over the last month. But maybe it doesn't matter. I think focusing on "doing" the Advent, might have caused me to miss other important things.

Things like caring for sick kids, snuggles, snuggles, snuggles, important conversations with my husband, listening for what God deems important to tell me about, whether his Son or other things, caring for close friends going through really tough times and trying to help family members struggling.

Maybe in the midst of Advent, God didn't want me to use my time the way I thought would be best, but the way he thought he could use me. I'm glad it went His way and delighted to celebrate Jesus Birthday over a few days.

we call it home

2010-12-03T09:03:00.007-06:00

OK, so I've been saying for weeks --I'll take pics of the house when its all neat and tidy-- well that happens at 10pm or once on the weekend, all times we're busy or tired, so here is our very homey, home! The boys followed me around, funny how they got in almost every shot :)

Here it is, the place we call HOME!

Entrance:

From Entrance, looking into living/dining room:

Closer look at living room (oops, no flash)

Kitchen/Dining area:

Caden's room (sorry, didn't flip it, turn your comp :)

Master BR:

Bathroom:

Storage/Laundry room:

Advent

2010-11-29T14:58:00.002-06:00

Made an Advent comment on Facebook to generate some ideas. It's really hard to do Advent activities with a 1 year old, as he doesn't have patience for intricacies or understanding of the activities, reason for the season yet. I think we're going to do a few things, have to chat with Quinn about it yet, we have 1 tradition to do for sure, drive around North of the city looking at lights, then up to Lockport, Half Moon's for supper!! Quinn and I have done the past 2 years :)

I would like to purchase some kids Christmas music and some books particularly with Christmas story(ies).

I kinda liked some of these ideas:

http://www.suite101.com/content/online-advent-calendar-a35107

morning conversations

2010-11-29T10:57:00.003-06:00

So much on my mind and things God lays on my heart. This morning as I do other mornings, I ask God to be with me this day, to help me throughout the day with the boys, for patience, wisdom in teaching them and for love and compassion to come from me. God gives so much on those days I ask for help. I notice such a huge difference in my actions, reactions on these days. Days I forget to pray in the morning, those days throughout the day are harder, noticeably harder. Why don't we trust sometimes? Why do we try to do it on our own? Why do we think we're more able than God, the creator and sustainer?

I think I've talked about this topic before. Not that God magically makes your day a cake-walk, no whining, the kids just magically share their toys :), nope, that's not the lesson here, but He certainly gives me patience when I need it, wisdom to make the right decision, moments in the day to just treasure.

Quinn's best man said at our wedding for Quinn to daily pray for his wife...likewise I try to daily pray for my husband. Quinn provides for the family, I'm thankful for the job God's given Quinn that he can do so and I pray that God helps him carry out his work there.

Psalm 119

¹⁴⁵ I call with all my heart; answer me, LORD,
and I will obey your decrees.
¹⁴⁶ I call out to you; save me
and I will keep your statutes.
¹⁴⁷ I rise before dawn and cry for help;
I have put my hope in your word.
¹⁴⁸ My eyes stay open through the watches of the night,
that I may meditate on your promises.
¹⁴⁹ Hear my voice in accordance with your love;
preserve my life, LORD, according to your laws.
¹⁵⁰ Those who devise wicked schemes are near,
but they are far from your law.
¹⁵¹ Yet you are near, LORD,
and all your commands are true.
¹⁵² Long ago I learned from your statutes
that you established them to last forever.

winter

2010-11-22T15:07:00.002-06:00

Took the boys out this afternoon, 20 minutes of bundling for 15 minutes outside :)

They enjoyed themselves out, did really well, now if we could just settle down for nap time.

2010-11-18T13:52:00.002-06:00

I'm sure my readers are already "all over" this, pardon the (sort've) pun :)

Six Second Kiss

I completely agree!!

reading

2010-11-16T10:07:00.002-06:00

I get these weekly devotional emails from John Piper (Author and Pastor), this weeks was "compelling"!

A Compelling Reason for Rigorous Training of the Mind
John Piper
I was reading and meditating on the book of Hebrews recently, when it hit me forcefully that a basic and compelling reason for education — the rigorous training of the mind — is so that a person can read the Bible with understanding.

This sounds too obvious to be useful or compelling. But that's just because we take the preciousness of reading so for granted; or, even more, because we appreciate so little the kind of thinking that a complex Bible passage requires of us.

The book of Hebrews, for example, is an intellectually challenging argument from Old Testament texts. The points that the author makes hang on biblical observations that come only from rigorous reading, not light skimming. And the understanding of these Old Testament interpretations in the text of Hebrews requires rigorous thought and mental effort. The same could be said for the extended argumentation of Romans and Galatians and the other books of the Bible.

This is an overwhelming argument for giving our children a disciplined and rigorous training in how to think an author's thoughts after him from a text — especially a biblical text. An alphabet must be learned, as well as vocabulary, grammar, syntax, the rudiments of logic, and the way meaning is imparted through sustained connections of sentences and paragraphs.

The reason Christians have always planted schools where they have planted churches is because we are a people of THE BOOK. It is true that THE BOOK will never have its proper effect without prayer and the Holy Spirit. It is not a textbook to be debated; it is a fountain for spiritual thirst, and food for the soul, and a revelation of God, and a living power, and a two-edged sword. But none of this changes the fact: apart from the discipline of reading, the Bible is as powerless as paper. Someone might have to read it for you; but without reading, the meaning and the power of it are locked up.

Is it not remarkable how often Jesus settled great issues with a reference to reading? For example, in the issue of the Sabbath he said, "Have you not read what David did?" (Matthew 12:3). In the issue of divorce and remarriage he said, "Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female?" (Matthew 19:4). In the issue of true worship and praise he said, "Have you never read, 'Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babes you have prepared praise for yourself'?" (Matthew 21:16). In the issue of the resurrection he said, "Did you never read in the Scriptures, 'The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone'?" (Matthew 21:42). And to the lawyer who queried him about eternal life he said, "What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?" (Luke 10:26).

The apostle Paul also gave reading a great place in the life of the church. For example, he said to the Corinthians, "We write nothing else to you than what you read and understand, and I hope you will understand until the end" (1 Corinthians 1:13). To the Ephesians he said, "When you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ" (Ephesians 3:3). To the Colossians he said, "When this letter is read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and you, for your part readmy letter that is coming from Laodicea" (Colossians 4:16). Reading the letters of Paul was so important that he commands it with an oath: "I adjure you by the Lord to have this letter read to all the brethren" (1 Thessalonians 5:27).

The ability to read does not come intuitively. It must be taught. And learning to read with understanding is a life-long labor. The implications for Christians are immense. Education of the mind in the rigorous discipline of thoughtful reading is a primary goal of school. The church of Jesus is debilitated when his people are lulled into thinking that it is humble or democratic or relevant to give a merely practical education that does not involve the rigorous training of the mind to think hard and to construe meaning from difficult texts.

The issue of earning a living is not nearly so important as whether the next generation has direct access to the meaning of the Word of God. We need an education that puts the highest premium under God on knowing the meaning of God's Book, and growing in the abilities that will unlock its riches for a lifetime. It would be better to starve for lack of food than to fail to grasp the meaning of the book of Romans. Lord, let us not fail the next generation!
By John Piper.

Mitten Leashes

2010-11-11T11:33:00.003-06:00

I found these little wonders at A Child's Place in the mall, the company that makes them, Small Potatoes, sells all sorts of great things. They're kinda pricey (?) $11, but I figure either I buy one pair of these or 3 pairs of mitts over the winter.

Caden

2010-11-10T15:20:00.002-06:00

- Pic by Cindy Bogusky (Caden's Grandma)

Newness

2010-11-04T15:21:00.004-05:00

In 3 days we will be moving to a new home, a new apartment home. Since finding out early this week that we would get to move this weekend, I've been excited. Excited with the prospect of a new place for many reasons. Now its sinking in that we will be living alone, no more help and that closeness with my in-laws and Caden's grandparents.

It has been a wonderful experience. Not surprisingly, each time I told someone we were currently living with my in-laws, their jaws dropped and this worried look covered their face. They showed surprise that for me and us, it has been a really great experience. It's only with Christ-like love within them and us (probably more them) that a living situation like this is possible.

Surely, my in-laws must have at times wondered at a decision I made or shook the inside of their head :) at me. Out of the 4 of us adults in this small place, I'm the messiest. I willingly admit; I'm not super organized, I leave the dishes a little too long sometimes and I'm sort've a messy cook. It's definitely made me step it up in notch - even so, I don't know if I succeeded in bettering myself.

With babysitting, its tough to find the time to clean your house or prep dinner with ease, having them here in the evenings gave me the time to cook dinner ALONE. We made the agreement that I would cook dinner during the week, they clean up dinner and they cook on the weekends. Dad would come home first from the workday, he would entertain Caden and I could just cook. It's SO satisfying to do something completely and well within that hour, it really made me feel efficient again and I love that feeling of cooking a good meal.

Caden loves the entertainment and love he gets from them. I think he'll miss it. :(

What a great period of time its been, if I said I wasn't emotional about it, I would be lying. If God has shown me something in this period of life, its been how to love unconditionally. I know so many people struggle with in-law relationships. Thankfully for me, its not so. The way they've accepted me and been so gracious with my faults...it's real love is what it is.

Mom, I don't know if you still read my blog, you already know how appreciative I am, and I hope we see lots of you and Dad still.

((HUGS))

Could God be preparing us for something more?? ;)

update to MM post

2010-10-29T14:55:00.002-05:00

Update to the Music Machine post, I have viewed the DVD's now and just for those of you who were interested in buy them...its like a storybook video. Its animated, then its narrated by a "storyteller". Its a man essentially reading the book, follows along with the scenes in the video. So, you will get to hear what a very manly female school teacher sounds like...haha

They are still well done, impressive for something made sooo long ago. The message, again, is great, so simply laid out. Great character building messages. The boys, at least William (17 months old), is quite captivated.

Just to update you.

Agapeland DVD lessons

lack of exercise

2010-10-29T12:35:00.002-05:00

I haven't been running the last couple weeks, partly weather is to blame!!!

My back and neck are sure reminding me of my lack of exercise, thank you Advil. Here's to running (or exercise)!

Call me biased.

2010-10-28T15:28:00.002-05:00

Just put Caden down for a nap, he is so adorable, sleeping or awake, so freakin`cute.

The Woombie

2010-10-28T15:11:00.002-05:00

I was just on Gmail and I was perusing emails, Google puts ads up based on what your emails talk about. I guess it read one of my emails discussing a conversation with a friend about babies. So it posted an ad about the "Woombie".

http://www.thewoombie.com/original_woombie.html

Now, how many of you, dear friends, think your baby would have or would like to be swaddled in this thing???

I think Caden did like swaddling even though he resisted it initially at times, but not sure he would have loved being in this thing.

If someone gave me one, I would certainly try it, not sure I would take initiative and buy it.

The Music Machine

2010-10-26T09:41:00.002-05:00

A long, long time ago, before the time of Veggie Tales, there was Music Machine...

Quinn's parents have been telling me about Music Machine for a few months, Quinn had Music machine cassettes with read-along books as a child. Quinn's parents seemed to like the message of music machine which goes through the Fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness (humbleness) and temperance (self-control).

So, for Caden's baby dedication, naturally, he received from them the gift of Music Machine CD's and Character Builder DVD. The CD's are songs about the Fruit of the Spirit and the DVD is short animations of them (character building).

I really like them. Caden has other music cd's, but considering this one is from the 80's, its done really well and I can "stand" the music :) ...the message it sends out is second to none.

Caden and W during the day, dance away to the music. The first time I played the cd's for them, they danced steady for 4 songs straight!! it was quite impressive. (I show them the moves ;)

Music Machine - Agapeland or you can buy them at Hull's in Winnipeg.

Just one of my fav songs (can't find on youtube):

Glad to be me:

One day I went to school and met,

To my surprise

A new kid, just my age

With muscles twice my size

And when I looked at him

I wished that I could be

Big and strong and tall instead of little me

(but then I thought)...

I never saw a pig flying like a bird

To see a bird with teeth

Would surely be absurd

I never heard a horse get hoarse

From tryin' to sing

I never saw a turkey wish that he was green

Chorus:

And I'm so glad to be

Just who God made me

I envy nobody

'Cause God made me special as can be

So if you ever wish

That you were someone else

Here's how to be content

Just to be yourself

Remember there is no one

Anywhere like you

So if you need advice

I'll tell you what to do

(Just think of this)

You never saw a mouse

Meowing like a cat

You never met a snake

Who wanted to be fat

You never saw a fish wish

He could be a frog

You never heard a turtle

Barking like a dog

Chorus

on my mind right now...

2010-10-20T12:07:00.011-05:00

Couple weeks ago I received a letter from our sponsored child, Samuel. He said his favorite story of the Bible was Noah's Ark (side-note: I love that Compassion puts their Child Development Centers in a church, A Church!).

He then asked what my (our?) favorite Bible story would be. Huh. Why had I never thought of that as a child? At least I don't remember having a favorite as a child or now. Caden received a kids Bible for his baby dedication on the 3rd. As I was reading the first page to Caden (don't usually get past the first page before Caden decides to go fast through the other pages, he delights in turning pages), the Genesis text jumped out, "In six days God made everything". Everything hey? The complexity of humans, all animals, land masses, oceans, galaxies, EVERYTHING. This was suddenly beyond comprehension to me. To add to this interesting thought, I was watching the Oasis channel one day (all documentaries on nature/science), the show was about how scientists/researchers study animals or insects, then try to recreate them. Some were studying insects - roaches and centidepes can move at amazing speeds, partly because of the number of legs and partly because of the angles/direction of their limbs. Then the univs would try to recreate using robotics, each time they did, they could come close, but there was always a way the insect was better. Or one car company studied a type of fish and realized even tho it was a box shape, the fish was very aerodynamic and efficient with energy, so they used the fish body shape in creating their car.

Mercedes-Benz bionic car

Box Fish

The narrator of this show ended each segment on the note that with each re-creation, the original creation just could not be matched. This was not a show that acknowledged God's creation. I think God used this show to help me read between the lines, I was able to come to His conclusion, the reality he wanted me to see.

All the complexities of creation in 6 days. We as humans in 6,000+ years haven't been able to figure out the complexities of the human body, the mind, haven't explored all the depths of the oceans, the list goes on. Will we ever figure it out? Does it matter? God planned it all out, zillions or in-numerous amounts of details in 6 DAYS! Can we trust him with our lives? With our short 90 year lives?

I wrote Samuel back, I stated honestly that I didn't know what my favorite story was. I did tell him what God was showing me about creation. As an adult now, I also told him the other "stories" I most value are Christ's birth - God becoming man and the death of Christ - Resurrection. I've been listening to Daily Audio Bible the last few weeks, the reading is in Jeremiah. God spoke to kings through Jeremiah. In the old testament (before Christ), if there wasn't obedience to what God spoke there were punishments - people, Kings, countries took the punishment. After Christ died, He took the punishment for us - enter Grace. Even though we as people still sin, we may suffer earthly consequences because of our sin, but we don't take eternal punishment IF we have accepted Christ.

Whoa! I get a daily email, this is what was in it today, talk about timing...relates to what is going on in my head about punishment, consequences and grace.

Romans 2:4: Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you to repentance? (NIV)

When our kids disobey, we sometimes feel justified to respond with anger, guilt, or sarcasm. It may make us feel better for a moment, but it rarely produces the results we are hoping for. This verse explains why. We can be "right" in our assessment of the situation and still be "wrong" in how we respond. We are called to treat our kids with respect, even in the midst of conflict, because this is how God responds to us in our rebellion.

Rather than seeking to punish or prove we're right, the motivation for discipline should be to move our kids towards holiness. God allows us to learn important lessons by giving us consequences, but He does so with kindness, tolerance and patience. This is the kind of discipline that leads to repentance!

Being kind, tolerant, and patient even in the face of disobedience or rebellion requires your kids to focus on their mistakes, rather than your response. - Parenting by Design

(boldness mine)

Multiple topics in this post, I realize that, it's whats on my mind right now.

see below

2010-10-19T10:50:00.001-05:00

3 new posts today, see below.

priceless

2010-10-19T10:42:00.003-05:00

Birthday cake...as parents, what great pleasure in giving your child their own piece of birthday cake to mulch up? (needless to say, we moved his chair off the carpet into the linoleum floor entrance :) he mulched the corner of it and ate some icing.

Birthday gift from Mom & Dad, a dump truck.

birthday fun

2010-10-19T09:54:00.005-05:00

Our baby is 1.

how time flies.

What a fabulous first year.

Ups and downs, but way more ups.

Love my men, we're a blessed family!

(don't mind my unruly hair and lack of make-up, this was after swimming :)

Favorite kids books

2010-10-19T09:34:00.004-05:00

I love these books, we bought Caden two of them for his Birthday!

Baby Einstein First Words
Baby Einstein Let's Go (forms of transportation)

The books are hardcover board books, with both an image and a word (see pic), both Caden and W spend lots of time either viewing alone or with me reading out the objects. The books have tons of objects. They were only $9 at Chapters.

2010-10-15T10:20:00.005-05:00

6:10 - Awake, shower, start getting ready

6:30 - Earliest Caden wakes up, sometimes sleeps til 7

7:00 - pack Husband's lunch, MIL made coffee before she left for work, pour, add cream and sugar, stir, SIP!

7:25 - Pray with Quinn, Kiss, he leaves for work

7:30 - W. has arrived, chaos begins :)

7:31-8:00 - Play time, dump all toys from toy bins, play!

8:00 - if the boys haven't entered the kitchen and begin scouring cupboards already, I start making breakfast

8:01 - boys at my heels, whining for breakfast

8:10 - oatmeal is ready and cooled, pull out highchair and booster side by side, load and lock children in chairs and serve alternating spoonfuls

8:20 - All done, wipe hands and faces, exit chairs

8:21 - break up fight over climbing up the high chair

8:23 - move chairs from the dining room to the linoleum area of kitchen floor, lunch will be much messier.

8:34 - a little bit of cereal for breakfast and its time to take a poo, change 2 poo diapers

9:00 - nap time. Set up play pen in the in-laws room, Kiss and tell them sweet things, one in play pen, one in crib, see you in a couple hours.

10:00 - Caden will likely wake up from nap, but want to sleep more, put him back to sleep in our bed

11:30-noon - Boys awake, play time

12:20 - Boys in chairs, food!

12:40 - done lunch, wipe hands and faces, exit chairs

1:00 - change diapers x2

More play time, put some Veggie Tales tunes on, dance, dance, dance, read a book or two, enhance some motor skills with building blocks, or drive cars and trucks

1:30 - Assemble jogging stroller on the patio, dress boys for outdoors, change into jogging clothes, gather sippy cups, phone, keys, Mum-Mum snack for boys after park, strap boys in, jog.

1:45 - arrive at park, bounce on teeter-totter, pour kids down the slide, place kids in swings, make sure W doesn't run out of park onto street, take some pics.

2:20 - All done, have your sippy cups, strap back into jogger, each get a mum-mum stick, jog.

2:30 - stop running, someone is crying in stroller, suspect the other tried to grab sippy cup and/or snack. try to stop the crying. Continue jog. Watch thru back screen to ensure there is no more grabbing, keep hands to themselves :)

2:40 - back at home, eject boys from stroller, move inside. Undress from outside.

3:00 - feed milk to both boys - soon to be changing to snacks, I hope :)

3:20 - Nap time x2, check diapers before nap time

4:10 - W's pickup time, other Mama has arrived

4:20 - In laws are home from work to watch Caden, while I prepare dinner.

5:00 - Quinn is home - XO

5:20 - Eating dinner.

6:00 - clean up dinner with help from MIL

7:00 - Hang out with husband and Caden, fav time of the day.

8:30 - feed Caden some oatmeal before bed.

8:45 - bath time

9:00 - out of bath, dry, lotion up, jammies on

9:20 - Caden to bed

9:21 - more time with Quinn

10:30 - 11 - Bedtime!

Sound familiar anyone? Well, it might be without the in-laws for you ;)...sure is helpful some days!

Spell checker thinks poo isn't a word, its right, feces would be better. weird.

baby

2010-10-11T09:24:00.005-05:00

Thankful for a new baby.

Baby Luke Paul was born on Saturday, a strong 8lbs 11oz, 23in long. Mama is good, but recovering from that, as you can imagine.

Driving out on Saturday to see them, I felt such a difference of emotions, happy that he was born safely, happy for them as they start their life as family, but anxious and worried for them. Her experience is similar to mine, I relate, maybe slightly worse. The weeks of recovery for me seemed like an eternity, amidst all the adjustments and change of life. Difficult time. Hard to enjoy your new baby amidst that. Her experience could be entirely different, I know this. They will have lots of help and make it through it, just like we did. I know what to pray for. That she springs back quickly and she can enjoy those fleeting weeks of new baby.

eats

2010-10-01T11:26:00.002-05:00

In a chat with a dear friend about lunch for kiddos, i thought I'd post some of the meal ideas that popped into my head this week for toddlers/kids/you.

1. Leftover steak? No problem, tear it into bits, quick fry with some veggies (whatever you have, i did broccoli, red pepper, tomato), add a little fresh ground pepper, after frying, throw in a couple beaten eggs for a delicious omelet.

2. Scrambled eggs with Broccoli and cheese - cut the broccoli into little bits, throw couple tbsps of water in a pan with the broccoli, let it steam til the water is gone, add some oil/butter, throw in the eggs with some shredded cheese and Scramble!

3. Avocado Grilled Cheese - Lightly spread some butter on the outside of both slices of bread, on the insides of the bread, spread some avocado (mash with a fork in a bowl first so its easy to spread). Place shredded cheese on the avocado and fry it up. Cut into bits for yummy finger food! These boys love it!! (one lady i know uses cookie cutter shapes, stamped out of grilled cheese for something fun)

4. Sides - steamed anything, peas, carrots, broccoli. During morning nap, i'll sometimes quickly steam up some veggies, so I don't have to do it at lunch when they're at my heels. At lunch, again, yummy finger food.

5. Oatmeal anything - breakfast is very often oatmeal at our house. Some days I add cinnamon with milk. Other days cut up strawberry, or sometimes dice tiny bits of apple (boil in the water a bit first before adding quick oatmeal). I recently tried steel cut oats (best for you), that takes half hour which we often don't have.

6. When the kids are whining at my heels for their meal, which is anytime I enter the kitchen!, I'll give them a mini carrot, keeps them occupied for 10 minutes, its fabulous. (I only started this with Caden at 11 months - he does well with it at this point)

Other days we just serve leftovers from last night's dinner.

Some parts of my day are really chaotic and I wonder how I'm going to manage or if I'll ever learn enough to raise them up right, I have to really trust God for wisdom. But, this part of my day, I feel confident and great when I'm enabled to feed them well...that is if they choose to eat that day :)

2010-09-30T09:40:00.001-05:00

In follow-up to this post , I like how John Piper put it:

John Piper, from his book A Hunger for God, notes, "If we don't feel strong desires for the manifestation of the glory of God, it is not because we have drunk deeply and are satisfied. It is because we have nibbled so long at the table of the world. Our soul is stuffed with small things, and there is no room for the great."

Disciple - Dear X (You Don't Own Me)

2010-09-30T08:42:00.001-05:00

I interpret this song as I am no longer under the bondage of Satan's lies and grasp...pretty sweet

Dear pain, oh, it's been a long time
Remember when you were holding me tight
I would stay awake with you all night

Dear shame, I was safe in your arms
You were there when it all fell apart
I would get so lost in your beautiful lies

I let you go but you're still chasing

Go ahead, you're never going to take me
You can bend, but you're never going to break me
I was yours, I'm not yours anymore
You don't own me

Dear hate, I know you're not far
You would wait at the door of my heart
I was amazed at the passion in your cries

Dear anger, you made me so high
You were faithful to show up on time
Such a flame that was burning in your eyes

I let you go, but you're still chasing

Go ahead, you're never going to take me
You can bend, but you're never going to break me
I was yours, I'm not yours anymore

You don't own me

Go ahead, put a target on my forehead
You can fire, but you've got no bullet
I was yours, I'm not yours anymore
You don't own me

You tempted me to look back
But everything that we had together was a lie

Go ahead, you're never going to take me
You can bend, but you're never going to break me
I was yours, I'm not yours anymore
You don't own me

Go ahead, put a target on my forehead
You can fire, but you've got no bullet
I was yours, I'm not yours anymore
You don't own me

Go ahead, put a target on my forehead
You can fire, but you've got no bullet
I was yours, I'm not yours anymore
You don't own me

i despise it

2010-09-29T09:40:00.002-05:00

i've never, ever been a fan of letting babies cry to sleep. EVER! I did it a bit when Caden was around 6 months, it worked for a while, then crazy summer hit. With vacations and family around more, i just rocked him to sleep, it was just too crazy when he's in a new place and weird schedules, having to go through the crying each time was too much for me and I had time to rock him. I don't regret any moment of rocking my baby to sleep.

Now, with babysitting W, the sleep schedules are sometimes a little off and its seemingly more and more difficult to rock him to sleep. So, i decided to go through it again, so hard for both him and I. I despise each crying moment, I think most Mommies do.

Lord, help Caden to learn how to fall asleep quickly and just help me through it.

2010-09-24T15:32:00.005-05:00

lesson of the day...

Sometimes you want your very own way, you want to stay in what you are doing because you think it's fun. It's a way better thing to do than anything your parent might be suggesting. Why would your parent call you away from something you believe is a great thing?

Why? Because you could miss out, **HUGELY** miss out.

Maybe, what your parent wants you to do or what your parent has for you is something great, something WAY better than what you were doing or what you had.

2010-09-14T09:35:00.001-05:00

Blessed are all who take refuge in him.

Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him Psalm 2:11-12

The only safe place from the wrath of God is in God. Everywhere outside of his care is dangerous. He is the only hiding place from his own wrath. If you see him as frightening and try to run away and hide, you will not find a place to hide. There is none. Outside of God's care there is only wrath. But there is a refuge from the wrath of God, namely, God. The safest place from the wrath of God-the only safe place-is God. Come to God. Take refuge in God. Hide in the shadow of his wings. This is where we live and serve with joyful trembling. It is terrible and it is wonderful. It is like the eye of a hurricane-terror all around, and totally beautiful and calm. Here there is sweet fellowship. Here is quiet, loving communion. Here we speak to him as to a friend. Here he ministers to our deepest needs. I invite you to come. - John Piper - Desiring God

Raising boys to be men

2010-08-25T09:57:00.003-05:00

Quinn and I find this Pastor very real and practical...

I was thinking the last couple days about how demoralizing our culture is becoming, that presents a threat to me when it comes to raising our own child...but, we do have Someone who is a model, a great example of what a real man is (thankfully his earthly Dad and Jesus).

Here's one of his articles on boys becoming men...

http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/panelists/mark_driscoll/2010/08/the_world_is_filled_with_boys_who_can_shave.html

connections

2010-08-10T11:33:00.004-05:00

I saw this story on the news the other day...

(http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/Health/20100806/religion-stress-study-100808/ - "Thinking about God can make you less upset about making mistakes, but only if you're a believer")

The way the study was conducted boggles my mind, as to whether their "evidence" was measured correctly or not. However, as I was reading, these verses jumped at me to "prove" the theory...

Romans 8:6

The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace

vs 9: You however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. 10: But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness.

(emphasis mine)

Also, going through my mind the last while has been the God-child relationship, and how neatly it shows the relationship between us as parents to our child. My love for Caden runs sooo deep, I've said before, I can't imagine how much more God could love us as his children. How??

vs 13: For is you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, 14 because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship (or adoption). And by him we cry, "Abba, Father".

17 Now if we are children then we are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ

I'm grateful for my parents, and my earthly Dad, I know he loves me and he's definitely delighted in giving us (his kids) good things. It's hard for me to comprehend how God (my perfect Father/Dad), loves me more and is exceedingly JOYOUS at giving me great things and He gives me greater things, like a great husband, (who is more than I could have asked for or found myself), and a child, that He entrusted to us to raise. Me?

Maybe I'm the only one who finds these things hard to comprehend. I think God's really tried to illustrate this to me through giving me Quinn and Caden. And now through these vs...he said in the Bible, we are his kids and heirs of Him.

Obviously we will be seperated from our earthly Dad's at some point, or some people already have lost their Father's, or maybe it just wasn't a good relationship, some earthly Dad's can be far, far removed from perfect. Others are pretty close.

Regardless, we're adopted into the perfect one.

vs 35 Who shall seperate us from the love of Christ (the perfect Dad) ??

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ

mayhem monday

2010-08-09T10:09:00.003-05:00

we're back from another busy weekend and maybe now summer will slow down...?? probably not. That's ok, we've had a really great summer, so many good experiences, loads of fun with Caden. Never knew before becoming a parent, how much sheer JOY it is to see your own child grow and develop, reach new heights, lift something we didn't think he could, pull something or reach something. Helps me see the God-God's children relationship even more. How thrilled God is to give us (his children) good things---I can now relate being a parent with a child the same.
Over the summer I've come across so many books I'd just love to read (Grace Based Parenting, something by Josh McDowell, loads more of the Bible, finish my Ravi Zacharias book)...where do parents find time?, I don't understand it. Yesterday Quinn and I were watching Caden and thinking how chaotic it would be to have another child. We threw out a few families who have more children than 1 and they seem to function so well, but we think maybe their kids aren't as busy as Caden??? ;)

As I commented on Tiffany's blog about prioritizing the day, I really do think that praying about it, asking God to please help us make wise decisions of our time, really helps me throughout the day.
Sometimes I think the lack of reading or finding time to read is my own issue, (like blogging), some of it is a time management issue/prioritizing, then other times, I would rather have a nap than read.

(i wanted SOOOO bad to get a family pic for a Christmas card, how about this one?) oh boy

(my bad decision, i wanted the pic against that building and there was no spot the sun wasn't!)

So excited we found a suit (inexpensive!) for Caden, I love, love, love it.

My great Mommy moment on Friday was ironing Caden's first pair of dress pants!

Ontario

2010-07-15T08:06:00.006-05:00

The buds (Lyla's cousins)Port Elgin, Lake Huron

Where's Waldo?? (Georgian Bay, Tobermory)

HEY! how did that get in here?? haha
(wonder who snapped that pic?!)

YUMMY! (yes Candice, after i saw you snacking on those in Ottawa, I had to get in line for one of these...funny tho, my Mom used to make these for us for a treat, altho we would just have them with syrup. I had mine with chocolate and banana, DELISH!)

Kincardine for fireworks, July 1, Lake Huron

This guy was classic!! ;)

Caden learning...

Breakfast by the falls

Caden did not want to get out of bed that morning, he would whine, then turn his body, sleep, whine some more, turn again, sleep, whine some more...lol

Fireworks at Niagara

Airplane Ride x2 for Caden

My favorite family pic of the trip...

Post-camping trip

2010-06-20T07:37:00.007-05:00

We're back! and the weekends not over. I must say it was WONDERFUL to sleep clean and in a real bed.

We left the city around 7:30 friday evening, we were well prepared and packed it up, grabbed supper on the way out, Caden went to sleep when we hit the road. Big, grey clouds are above us most of the way and rain accompanies too. As we got closer to the park, the clouds were starting to disperse, the rain had stopped, yay!

We check-in, go to our campsite. There was no way I was stepping foot in that campsite, it had a minimum of one and a half inches of standing water. Quinn checked it out. We decided to find a dry-er campsite (very few tenters in the non-electrical sites, surprise, surprise!). We found one that was dryer and made the switch. I was in the only sandals I have, which have a cushy cloth base, stepping into the site, the ground was so saturated, the water swarmed your feet. Immediately apply Fragrance au Repellent. Hurry to set up tent while it is still light out.
Try not to get frustrated with tent set up and take it out on my husband. :)

Caden slept almost the entire time through set up which was very helpful. We finished tent set-up. On the way out to the park we realized we forgot flashlights. It was after 10 and we decided to go to the store and get one. The stores were closed. We decided to drive back up the highway to find a gas station, drove 20 minutes, it was closed too, go back to the site. Decided we would use the truck lights for light with the screen door open. (That means starting the truck every 20 minutes b/c it automatically turns off lights). We hauled in everything we needed to sleep with snacks and drinks. Caden was now awake, so we fed him and played a bit, he grew tired quick and wanted to go to bed. Us too. I so wanted to take a picture of Caden of his sleeping outfit, I didn't have my camera in the tent. He had socks on, his sleeper over the socks, a sweater over his sleeper, a touque and 4 blankets in his play pen, 2 under, 2 on top. (I think this is why he slept as well as he did). He went to bed around 1, got up at 5 to eat (which is normal), then I kept in our bed and he slept til after 7.

Back to bedtime, after we put Caden to bed, Quinn and I decide to have a drink (cooler/beer) and some snacks. Before we go to bed, Quinn decides he has to go to the bathroom, I didn't want to drink my entire cooler, because at 5am, I would really need to go to the b-room, no thanks. So, Quinn said he would finish my cooler on the way to the bathroom. I'm in the tent, the truck is running and I hear muffled male and female voices. I thought maybe our neighbours two sites over were talking loudly. It went on for 5 minutes or so and then I heard Quinn yell "Lyla, have a bit of a problem here." I was confused. I went to the tent door and he said the park police had seen him with his drink on the road = possession of alcohol on public property. oh boy. Me thinking "am i going to have to bail my husband out of jail?", apparently these same thoughts were running through Quinn's head.

I went out of the tent to hopefully get more info and be a positive influence on the officer's (2 women) decisions as to what to do about this. Turns out, they had been standing on the road by our site because we had come late into the park, so they thought initially that maybe we weren't even checked in. (You would think they would check the records before coming to visit our site.) The 2 officers had been standing on the road, when Quinn walked off our site. Quinn saw 2 shadows and asked Hello? Who are you? Well, they immediately shone their flashlight and stated "You are in possession of alcohol on public property." Well, Quinn, being very tired, and not thinking clearly (he only had one beer!!), decided to quickly drink it, so that he wouldn't be in "possession" of it anymore. (brilliant, I know!) Well, now the officers said "and now you've just consumed (disrespected) in front of an officer". It was SO innocent, Quinn had no intentions of purposefully drinking on public property or in front of them. The 2 violations would have come close to a $1,000 fine or a night in jail. When he left the tent I didn't even think anything either, it didn't cross my mind it was illegal! One comment they made "If you were in the city, would you take a drink onto the street or the sidewalk?". Ok, its a campground, we both didn't think of it that way. So, after 15 minutes of Quinn explaining and convincing them it was a honest mistake, they sensed he was a little stressed because it was late, no flashlight, honest mistake and they let it go. PHEW!!

Poor Quinn, he was so stressed that night, not really believing it was over, worrying they would come back or send him a fine later...nope, we were free, forgiven!

Needless to say, we thanked God for that in our bedtime prayer!

(Those park police are serious, aren't they Candice?? no foolin' around with them ;)

Ahhhh, so we settled in for a good night's sleep.

Saturday morning, the sun is shining, it's a new day! Caden's being cuter than ever in our bed, seemed slightly confused as to why the ceiling was so close to him, he liked the tent though, crawling around in it. Feeling kinda dirty from the night before, we hit the showers. Bought some firewood and made breakfast. The site was slightly dryer than the night before, still pretty squishy, but we were used to it at that point. We had our jogging stroller which performed superbly in those conditions. Caden stayed clean. We had a dryer spot where our picnic table was, which was so nice. Quinn's parents came around noon to hang out. We checked out the beach, water still a few degrees too cold. Played at the park (saw some Dads there having a beer while their kids played, hopefully they didn't get caught ;)....SEE, it's so innocent!
Played Canasta with Quinn's parents while Caden had a nap. Sat in the sun. Made supper, ate supper. Around this time was when Quinn proposed we go home that night (brilliant)! We would have lots of laundry to do, I knew the house needed to be vacuumed, bathroom cleaned, ironing done. To be better prepared for Monday and my babysitting duties, would be very wise. Also considering we have to pack this Friday evening for our trip to Toronto. And we have 2 evening dates with friends this week and we need to do some shopping in the evenings too. It was a very wise decision and Quinn's parents were there to watch Caden and help us pack up. If it weren't for all the events of this coming week, we definitely could have handled another night.

This was definitely an experiment to see how camping would go with Caden, he loves being outside, watching birds, squirrels, anything really, its a lot to take in. Imagine how much fun he'll have being able to crawl around out there.

So while we caught up on some rest last night, we'll enjoy Father's Day and get a few things done :)

P & P for R & R

2010-06-18T10:26:00.002-05:00

plan and prepare for rest and rejuvenation!

Camping - yes we are going, this rain is going to clear out by tonight and off we go. We're quite excited for it, first time for Caden, first time for us parents with Caden :). Sleep? on a good night he sleeps until 5am, maybe nature and wilderness will set his clock right ;)

Celebrating first Father's Day, what better way than camping with your Dad, Caden's a very blessed boy. Quinn, along with the deep love you have for us, you are an uncomprimising Father! Love you!

Love, me

2010-06-09T12:57:00.003-05:00

You know, in the movies, those completely unrealistic sappy movies, a loved one dies and then the living go about going through their personal items and cherishing all the notes, letters. Maybe it's more realistic than I know...I've never gone through someone really close to me passing (oh boy, this is starting to sound really morbid)...

Moving on to happy thoughts...Quinn and I have had all our cards to each other (from dating and marriage) sitting on our night stands since we were married (1 and 3/4 yrs ago), I like reading them from time to time...(insert big romantic sigh here)...
I've been thinking lately, we can't keep piling them onto our night stands, so I've wanted to get those little memory/photo boxes (just like you always see in the movies) to put our cards/pictures/notes into.

Finally, last night we were out shopping, I came across them and told Quinn about my idea and that I wanted 2 boxes, one from me to him and vice versa. This way, if one of us dies, we'd have all these memories (insert Quinn's eyeroll here) (I'm laughing as I write this, it was so funny in the store). Quinn says, "Yes, cause that's what I want, my wife dies, but at least I have a box of cards!! - extreme sarcasm! Followed by later at home "I think the life insurance we got is a little more important, I'd like to be able to quit my job and take some time off." He's so funny all the time (I wish I could bottle the humour too, haha).

I thought it was really funny and I did buy those boxes, maybe guys (or just my guy :) don't think about these things, but he'll appreciate that box if/when the time comes! (I already said I'm going first!)

Do you keep romantic memories? or did I just fall off the crazy truck? :)

Brain foods

2010-06-08T15:11:00.003-05:00

I'm in no way an expert...these are just my thoughts and observations right now...

I sometimes reference Dr. Sears (pedetrician) website...I thought this was a great bit of info from him on "brain foods", helpful to me when deciding what the family eats.

I've been thinking about discipline and children lately, last week I had a conversation with my sister about it, I said then, "I think there is a huge connection with how kids behave and what goes in them, particularly processed sugars, discipline might be a little easier if Junior is not hopped up on sugar"...Dr. Sears confirmed:

"PURE MOMS
Over my thirty years in pediatric practice, I have noticed a striking connection between how children are fed and how healthy they are. Mothers who consistently don't allow any unhealthy food to pollute the minds and bodies of their children seem to have healthier children. I have noticed that these children are sick less often, and when they do come for periodic checkups they seem more settled and better behaved. These "pure children" seem to get tagged with fewer labels, such as "ADD" or "learning disabilities." Even when these children do warrant such tags, they seem to cope better with behavioral and learning differences, and they seem less severe. These moms have made a believer out of me. I truly believe that there is a connection between how kids are fed and how they act and learn. "

http://www.askdrsears.com/html/4/T040400.asp#T040402

Day 6

2010-06-06T10:39:00.004-05:00

(Caution: post not for weak stomachs)

The flu has invaded our space and taken us captive, but we haven't stopped fighting it, it's going to get kicked to the curb very, very soon.

Caden was first to get it, it's been an eventful week with him. He's been in very good spirits throughout it, I must say. I've made 2 calls in the last week to HealthLinks, he has a nice little file with them :). Caden had a little fever for Thursday morning. The nurses are great there, they lovingly told me, that when babies have viral "flu", diarrhea can last 5 to 14 days, yes, I did not give you a typo with those numbers. So, here we are on Day 6. Like I said, he does well through it, considering he's had probably 100 diaper changes in 7 days (the frequent BM's started 7 days ago). Grandma B has been here a bit on diaper duty as well, which was an even greater relief when I got the flu. Changing very smelly diapers when you are nauseous is not much fun either. (gulp)

I think I am nearly over it, still a little stomach upset, Quinn is over it now - he was second to get it. Caden is almost there except for the BM's...oh Lord, please!!!

I wish I knew how much Caden weighed before flu and after, I think he has lost a bit of weight. We've been trying to stick to the BRAT concept, Bananas, Rice cereal, Applesauce, Toast - supposedly good for diarrhea infants. I tried to give him Whole milk plain yogourt yesterday, it didn't go over well, it came up. At least he's still BFeeding really well.

appreciate your prayers throughout the week friends.

Today we are off to celebrate Mom Zach's 50th Birthday!! YAY!

(praying for you Sonya, I know you're in a little more tiring situation than we have here :)

By way of Baptism

2010-05-28T15:32:00.005-05:00

Able to attend my (uncle) Gerald's baptism: pure awesomeness!!
Mark 16:16: He that believes and is baptized shall be saved

Really thankful we were able to go, Congratulations again Gerald! :)

And again, Caden traveled fairly well, nice 3 hour+ naps, then Quinn or would jump back and entertain him during awake periods, then some solid jumping around on the off-road break.

Schedules and BBQs

2010-05-20T10:42:00.006-05:00

(playing Wii with Daddy)

In June I will be babysitting a one year old through the weekdays. Thus, I have felt the need to schedule my life in order to prevent chaos. I recently heard a sermon/message on planning, how important it is for us as individuals and/or in households. If you have a plan and it needs adjusting, that's ok, at least you had the plan in place. It is good for us to plan for short-term or long-term, but be aware if God has alternate plans to be accepting of that change to your plan.

Proverbs 16:9
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.

Short-term

So, I've devised a chart, showing what meal will need to be made for each day of the week for the 4 weeks of June, therefore ensuring I get everything I need at the grocery store on the weekend, meaning no random trips for Quinn or I. Also, on the chart I filled in all the household requirements for each day of the week. i.e. laundry, vacuum, dusting, washroom. I kinda have a system already, but when you have two little ones around, I might forget throughout the week. Their needs are on the forefront of my mind, and we also plan to go outside every day of the week. Hopefully with the schedule, when there is downtime or naptime I can fit in the household stuff as I'm reminded by my sked.

I know June will be a crazy month with the adjustments of having 2 boys, so I'm praying the transition goes smoooooooth :)

**********************************************************

I'm really happy barbeque season is here, here's some things we've got on the bbq.

Beef/Chicken/Veg kabobs
Salmon
Hamburgers
Steak!!
Fresh Pineapple rings-yum

That's all I can think of, there must be more, what do you have on your BBQ?

things

2010-05-03T07:55:00.003-05:00

This morning I am pooped, so I will chill for the next couple hours with Caden til he gets tired, then we're both napping. He had a 3x awake night, his nose is stuffed, so maybe that's why, although he kinda did this over each night of the weekend, so I'm hoping its not habit already. They catch on unbelievably fast; if I cry long enough, Mommy will come feed me each time!...smart!

You know how babies play with their bottle when they get to a certain age? Well, Caden started playing with his, if you know what I mean. Its actually quite comical, I don't let it go on forever, I don't want it to become his entertainment by any means!

His BM's have become almost daily now, although they seem to be a little thick still and little straining involved, at least getting more frequent, on the upswing.

For about a week and a half, Caden rolled and rolled and rolled, but in the last few days, he stopped rolling. Now, he just lays on his belly and rocks back and forth like a beached whale. Sometimes he pulls his knees up, just a matter of time before figures out crawling.

I am so grateful for Quinn, my wonderful God given husband and Caden, how did God design something so cute?, so delighted for the time I get to spend with them.

I'm thankful that God creates, we might think we "plan" when to have babies or create, not so, God is the creator, he determines where, when, etc (Acts 17:26).
For me, as Ravi Zacharias stated "When God brings us to salvation, the most remarkable thing we see is he transforms our hungers. He changes not just what we do, but what we want to do. This is the work of the Holy Spirit within us - "for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose" (Phillippians 2:13)". I'm thankful for the joyful responsibility He gave us of raising Caden, one of our life's missions.

Frustrated as

2010-04-23T16:52:00.004-05:00

This post is about poo, to make it a little more entertaining, I'm giving you, the reader, the privelege of using your favorite word for poo in the "blank" field.

What's more fun than (blank) , really??!

Well, Caden's (blank)ing or lack thereof is really starting to get the best of me. Since we started him on solids, about a month ago, there have been serious lack of (blank) .

I went to the Dr earlier this week, she doesn't seem to concerned, the only thing she said to me was to give him water during the day. Issue! Caden hasn't taken too well to drinking water, none-the-less from a bottle.

Right now, well for the last 10 minutes he's been spending time in his jumperoo, or as its otherwise called - "his favorite (blank)ing spot". He's been very busy straining and grunting.

I get so frustrated watching him work so hard to (blank) !!

I'm nearly at my wits end...help!

Dropkick Murphys - Amazing Grace (Good Quality Studio)

2010-04-21T13:41:00.000-05:00

Ok, so if you're falling asleep while doing dishes, reading your children "just one more story", or simply a little low on Java...let this music speak to you and bring you out of the sedated state.
(I originally heard this song on DIY Gourmet's blog months ago, thought I'd share with you all)

kaaaauuute!

2010-04-14T22:38:00.002-05:00

I couldn't pick just one...

Baby food cost savings chart

2010-04-09T15:40:00.003-05:00

I got this chart comparing store bought baby food cost to making it your own at home from fruits and vegetables...off of this website http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/news/

It was made in the US, I'm sure the cost savings are still relevant. I like the concept of making all my baby food, but sometimes there is just no time!

View PDF:
http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/download/comparison.pdf

little notes...

2010-04-09T09:05:00.002-05:00

We're working on getting Caden's passport, I got his picture done last week, then today I looked at the instructions for pictures which states "child must be neither smiling, nor frowning and mouth must be closed". Caden is not smiling or frowning, but his mouth is open. How do you tell a 6 month old to close their mouth?! I hope they're not too fussy on that point.

Caden is starting to eat food. He's been against some foods like prunes, pears and peaches, at least on their own. Yesterday morning I gave him oat cereal mixed with peaches, which he was ok with. In the evening he eats pureed steamed carrots, which he loves!

Caden got a cold/runny nose on Monday, which he lovingly shared with me. I think Caden's is getting better now, although still sneezing and runny nose. He hates the wiping nose part, although when he does get mad while I'm wiping his nose, his frustration helps the junk come out, so I don't feel as bad. Me? I think this morning is the worst I've felt all week, I hope this is the peak and gets better from here.

Caden was weighed by my sister at my parents place Easter weekend, he is 20 lbs. I met a nurse this week who said her 14 month old daughter is 24 lbs. Solid little boy we have, unbelievable to me that they can grow like that on breastmilk, just amazes me!!

Caden is now napping, I'm going to try napping too...adios.

Good Friday

2010-04-01T13:33:00.002-05:00

He was perfect.
Without sin.
Not one sin.
The Governer Pilate knew He had done no wrong.
The people were relentless in their quest for Him to be crucified.
He was handed over to be crucified.
He was flogged.
Spat upon.
Struck in His face.
Wore a Crown of Thorns.
He was mocked (for claiming to be a King).
Carried His own cross.
Nailed to a cross.
Died for me, paid for my sin.

Let me say it for you... "He's getting so big!"

2010-03-29T08:33:00.004-05:00

Going for walks...so cozy...

I found my toes...

Mommy! one more snapshot and...

Trying to sit and...the infamous belly flop

me and my bears...

First time on the swings...

too cute! kiss!

I'm Listening to...

2010-03-19T08:05:00.008-05:00

Fresh I.E. "Inside"

The song "Timeless", is really getting to me, it's convicting.

Goes something like this...

Before it's too late, lets open our eyes and see, look at our world in need, children are dying in these streets, some of them crying just to eat,

Before its too late, Lets open our mouths and speak, look at our world in need, we're killing each other cause of greed - R. Wilson, B. Foster

The album has strong messages overall, seems to me, you can't just listen to it.

updates

2010-03-17T12:51:00.006-05:00

Been gone too long, this week I've been thinking in terms of one line updates on our life, on me...so I'll try and remember some of them.

- making broccoli cheese soup today. A lot of pressure, as my husband's fav, fav, FAV soup is Moxie's version of broc cheese, if this fails, I guess we're back to spending $6 a bowl for soup, I do agree their soup is mighty good.

- Caden is starting to regularly scream, this is hard on our ears. Yesterday I had one crazy headache, ouch. He's also learning to sit, I sit him inside the nursing pillow on his playmat on the floor. I love it when he falls over, he lands on his belly, like a little whale...and he always seems to keep his face from hitting the floor, very graceful at falling over. We've been walking outside in this gorgeous weather.

- Speaking of gorgeous weather, its stinkin hot in our apartment already. You would think seeing as we live on the main floor, corner unit, we would have cold issues. Nope, haven't had the heat on in almost 2 weeks, and all winter we only had the thermastat's at 18 - its hot in here. I've been in shorts and tanks around the house and I usually don't put a lot of clothes on Caden when we're at home. Very close to turning on the AC. All our windows are south facing, so days when there is a North wind, we don't get a lot of air in here either. I am thankful for the weather however.

- Went out for coffee with one of my friends yesterday (Tim's across the street). On my way home, I noticed 2 of our building neighbour ladies outside on one of their patios. They both have babies, so the 3 babies incl. Caden, were all born within 1 month of each other! Crazy, hey?! It's pretty neat. We had a little chat, that's the first time we've all met with babies. I hope there is more opportunities to hang out now that nice weather is here...I think it could be fun, they're really nice. (I found out the 2 neighbour ladies are related, that's why they hang together frequently).

- A good link for this day honoring St. Patrick (link from my FB friend Phil) http://www.billygraham.org/News_Article.asp?ArticleID=815

- ooohhh, in other news: I am going to be an AUNTIE again!! Yes, my baby sister, Loretta and her husband Paul are expecting for October. Haha, kind've a repeat of Caden, due in October. I'm excited!

- Lent and Chocolate/Juice - in the middle of the Lent season. It feels like I've just become used to not eating chocolate or drinking juice. Sometimes its not even an option so it doesn't go through my mind or give me a reminder. So, while I can appreciate the "lent" idea, I don't think these couple of items absent from my consumption over 40 days are going to really make the difference in my relationship with the Father. I'm glad this has brought to my attention now, rather than at the end of 40 days and I want to change my heart daily, continually, rather than "waiting" for a reminder from chocolate or juice. I'm thankful Quinn and I have been taking in a video series on prayer, we're still in the middle of it, it's a long one, 5 parts, about an hour each. It's been such an awakening to how I pray and how I listen.

Bye Jackson

2010-03-09T11:29:00.003-06:00

Jackson III, our family pet and beta fish passed away overnight of old age. Jackson was a part of our family and home for the last 2 years.

Jackson buddy, you were with us through our engagement, wedding, marriage, pregnancy and you had the priveledge of meeting Caden, our firstborn. You were a beautiful piece of our home. We enjoyed watching you swim, we enjoyed playing with you, you jumping at us - you got us a few times! :)

I'll miss ya buddy, thanks for the memories...xo

Dad

2010-03-01T13:47:00.007-06:00

I like learning, especially learning about God, really getting deep into who He is, what He is about. Then there are the simpler lessons too. This last week my husband and I are taking in some video sermons, this lesson particularly on prayer. Pray Like Jesus. Or as the pastor put it, "talking to Dad", the Father, the perfect Father. He is always attentive to us, with us and answers us. It might be a Yes, a No or a Later, but he will always answer.

The Pastor recalled in his message when he became a Father and how much more he understood God, the heavenly Father, as a Father. That makes sense to me. On another note, I remember when Quinn and I were dating, he loved me and I had a sense of this deep love he had for me...I remember thinking then: if Quinn and I have this deep love for one another, how much more does God love us? Then we got married and I found out how much more Quinn loves me, he acts it out and he tells me. God's love was again unfathomable to me. Then we had Caden, I love him so deeply, so, so, so deeply; and again I think of God's love, I know God loves Caden even more than we do...but HOW can He love him more? I could hug and kiss that boy all day. How much more does God express his love to us? A deeper love is unfathomable to me. But he does...

My Child,

You may not know me, but I know everything about you. Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit down and when you rise up. Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways. Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image. Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being.Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring. Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived. Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother's womb. Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born. Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me.John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 John 4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. 1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. 1 John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could. Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect father. Matthew 5:48

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love. Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore.Psalms 139:17-18

And I rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you. Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession. Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things. Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires. Philippians 2:13

I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart. Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. Revelation 21:3-4

And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus. John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed. John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being. Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you. Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you. 1 John 4:10

I gave up everything I lovedthat I might gain your love. Romans 8:31-32

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me. 1 John 2:23

And nothing will ever separate you from my love again.Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen.Luke 15:7

I have always been Father, and will always be Father.Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is…Will you be my child? John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you. Luke 15:11-32

Love,

Your Dad

Almighty God

Food

2010-02-21T22:50:00.000-06:00

Our story

2010-02-17T11:55:00.000-06:00

Last week after reading a birth story of a couple's second child, who was born with Down Syndrome I had the biggest cry, the story was beautiful. Having an uncle with Down's, I know how special he is, I can't imagine what my grandmother went through, my Mom seeing her baby brother the first time, he's 2 years older than me, we traveled together once, it was a fun trip, one I'll remember forever, he is definitely a precious gift from God, I love him dearly.

This prompts me to write my birth story, I turned off my rss feed to facebook, I want to write this out for my husband and Caden (he'll maybe read it when he's 30 and had his own baby :) and for you, close blog readers. It won't be well written, that's not me, but it is our story...

It was Saturday, January 24th 2009, I was expecting my period around the Wed, Thurday of that previous week, it hadn't come. So, Quinn and I decided to buy a couple pregnancy tests, we took one test that Saturday, there was one solid line and another light line appeared, 2 lines means you are expecting. We were thinking we were probably expecting, but I said we should take another test in the coming days as it would show stronger as the days went on. Quinn was excited, I think he said something like how exciting it was to know you've created a baby (not his exact words). I was nervous. Nervous about having a baby, I've always known it is a lot of work to care for a baby, I guess I questioned my capabilities but I kept reminding myself, it's not just me, it's both of us, Quinn is with me, we can do this. Sunday we went to church and heard the news of another couple expecting. Congratulating them was so strange knowing you probably had the same news to share, but we would be waiting. The following week we took another test and again 2 lines appeared, one slightly fainter again, but a little more bold than the previous week. We knew, Baby Bogusky on the way. A few weeks in I started experiencing morning sickness, a lot of food was revolting to me, I gagged easy while brushing my teeth. I brought up, my husband, bless him, wouldn't let me clean up my throw up mess when I missed, told me to go lay down, he took care of it. Thankfully I only brought up, maybe 10 times. I felt right from the beginning we would be seeing baby Bogusky in 9 months, it was never a question if something would go wrong, I had this feeling that I knew this was God's plan for us at this time.

It was hard keeping the secret from parents, we decided to tell them around the end of February, they were excited for us, as we expected. Telling friends and other family members was fun, all the creative phone calls, in person conversations, emails (emailed our friends the "Guess What?" email in Sudan). The pregnancy was "normal", our first ultrasound at 19 weeks went well, it was amazing seeing a fully formed baby inside. There was a lot of movement, Caden was a mover inside the womb. The US tech said he would keep us running. The placenta was low lying as it should have already moved up by 19 weeks, so they wanted to do a second ultrasound at 32 weeks to ensure it was high before the birth.

The pregnancy went as expected though. Started feeling better with food in the second trimester, it definitely felt like the "honeymoon" trimester. The third trimester was good too, I didn't start feeling tired til the 9th month. Thankfully I was off work at the start of the 9th month. I got ready for baby and spent the month going for long walks. October 1st of the due date, that day came and went, baby was cozy on the inside. We had a doctor appointment, of course he wanted us to go for fetal assesments, ensure baby was doing ok, not getting too big. We had two fetal assessments before Caden was born, all was well. Doctor gave me two weeks from October 1st to have the baby or I had to be induced. I was not happy about being induced.

On Wednesday morning, October 14th, Quinn went off to work. I started having lower back pain, constant back pain that morning. I decided to go for a walk anyway, hoping to get things moving. Quinn called me on his 10am break, at noon and at his 3pm break to chat. I decided not to mention anything to him. I was sure this was it, so I knew he would be taking off work starting Thursday already and if I mentioned anything Wednesday, he would leave work immediately. I felt there was really no reason for him to be at home, it was only back pain yet. In the evening when he came home I told him what was going on. We spent the evening at home, I sat on the exercise ball for comfort and Quinn rubbed my back. Wednesday night, I didn't sleep much, maybe 3 hours in total, the pain of course worsening. By Thursday morning, there were mild back contractions, we were both up at 5am as I wasn't sleeping anyway. We showered and got ready for the day ahead. I had been having contractions all morning, I prolonged going to the hospital as long as possible, I think the contractions were approx 5-10 minutes apart when we decided to go in at noon. We let our parents know we were going in to the hospital.

If I hadn't gone into labour by that Thursday, I was on the list for an induction, we got to the hospital before they called. In triage, they checked me out, I was barely 3cm dialated. Normally at that stage they would've sent us home, however I was already 2 weeks overdue, so they kept us at the hospital. We were admitted into our own room and settled in for the night :).

From noon until 7pm, the contractions got stronger, we walked the halls, bounced on the exercise ball, Quinn rubbed my back, lots of owee, owee, owee. They offered me gas (nitrous oxide), it did little to ease the pain. I asked for an epidural.

Sidenote: At our prenatal classes, the men were told (away from the women)...if your partner asks for an epidural, ask them if they want to try maybe 5 more contractions, as a way to see if they can be prolonged from the epidural, but if your partner is adamant about an epidural, to let her have it.

The nurse asked me to go to the washroom first, as I had to do that before the epidural. There, I pleaded with Quinn, said I couldn't take it anymore, they were too strong and of course, he agreed :) At 8pm, the OB checked me out, said I was maybe 5cm. They decided to break my water. The OB discovered meconium (pooped inside). The anesthesiologist came in and hooked me up, I thought it would be more painful than it was. I guess relative to contractions, the epidural insert was a cinch.

Oh, the beauty of the epidural, I wasn't able to leave the bedside...really, they wanted to closely monitor baby's heartbeat and the contractions, especially since they discovered meconium. It was either the exercise ball or the bed. Apparently I slept that night, so Quinn tells me, I don't remember going to sleep or waking. I almost still don't believe him...lol. At midnight, the nurse checked me again, I was fully dialated, she asked me if I had the urge to push, like a bowel movement, I said I felt nothing (downside of the epidural). She decided to turn down the oxytocin and hope I would regain feeling. Within a short amount of time, my back started to ache, there still was no urge to push which the nurse wanted, my lower back was aching intensely. I told this to the nurse, said I couldn't take the back ache, she turned the oxytocin back up. At 4am, I told the nurse, I want to push, just tell me how and I'll try it out, even though I didn't have the "BM urge". So, we tried for about an hour, there was some movement and descent, not a lot. I think the nurse gave up on me, she called the OB in. The OB finally arrived at 6am, actually the intern. After his examination, he concluded, the baby was sideways, facing to the side of my body. They would have to use forceps to turn him. Then they would proceed to help pull him out while I pushed. If turning baby did not work, they would have to go to C-section. I asked if they could use suction instead, I thought that would be better for baby than forceps. (looking back, I don't know why I asked, I don't think suction would turn the baby as easily as forceps! I was tired and dazed I guess!)

For this procedure I had to be moved to the OR in the event the C-section was necessary. They moved me to a different roller bed and wheeled me down the hall, past Quinn's parents who had a very worried look on their face and into the operating room. During this transition I finally had the urge to push, it was hard to hold back. The froze me from neck to feet, and the intern with the OB went to work. Turning Caden was successful and within minutes of the start of their work, they were asking me to push him out.

Out came our baby boy, Caden Quinn, the docs handed him off to the nurses, they wanted to clean him up before he took big breaths, as they didn't want the meconium to go into his lungs. Then he cried, so sweet. After birth, the docs fixed me up and in the meantime the new Daddy got to hold his sweet boy. The nurses asked his name, Quinn told them Caden. They asked for the middle name, Quinn couldn't get that one out. I finally told them, Caden Quinn. We were all moved to a recovery room. Caden had to go through his first round of tests, Caden also started eating very quickly and well! Soon after his first blood test, we were told he had low blood sugar, abnormally low for a newborn. Probably due to stress in the womb. This upset us somewhat, because there was a chance he would have to be admitted to NICU, on IV, we were nervous, saddened and scared. Caden breastfed some, they also supplemented with formula, he needed lots of food quickly to try and get the blood sugar in check. Caden had to be taken to NICU to further test his blood sugar, I told Quinn to go with him, I would be ok. The parting was bittersweet for him (I think).

I had to regain all feeling after the anesthesia came off and of course, had to pee before being able to go back to our room. I was also able to eat finally. Caden and Quinn came back in between tests at NICU, those were some tough moments. Quinn, in agony, had to watch them poke and prod for all the blood work, of course in his heel, poor boy. After some time, we were all able to go back to our room, even though Caden had yet to pass a blood sugar test. We would just have to go to NICU for tests in between feedings. Caden was born at 6am and I think by 2pm he finally passed his blood sugar. We were so thankful! Our parents came in of course and we had some other company. Such a mix of emotions from the morning, a beautiful day when we held our blessed baby boy in our arms. Amen!

We are grateful for you Caden, you are my beautiful baby boy, I love you.

Love,
Mommy

Lent

2010-02-16T14:32:00.006-06:00

Alright, I did some reading on Lent. I've never participated in it, but after a little research, I see how beneficial it can be to one's prayer life.

There are varying degrees of fasting during lent. So, I've chosen to cut out a couple things. I eat quite well now with little junk food since I'm nursing, so I don't feel like I have a lot to cut out. However, there are a couple things and I hope its enough, so that I am reminded daily, several times daily to, pray, converse and be challenged.

1. Chocolate: this includes chocolates, choco cake, choc chip cookies, etc.
2. Juice: like I said I eat little junk food, and don't drink pop, etc. So, will cut out my fruit drinks, pineapple juick, mixed fruit, OJ, not even chocolate milk.

Altho this Feb I am really distracted by watching the Olympics, cutting that out or reducing my watching might help too :)

I will keep you posted on how this Lent season affects my spiritual walk with Jesus and subsequently many aspects of my life. Hold me to it if you don't see the posts!!

growth

2010-02-05T09:36:00.002-06:00

Caden rolled over today! I didn't witness the roll, just the result. He was put in his crib for a nap on his back, I went in shortly after as he didn't think it was time for a nap and he was on his belly.
He's also started laughing a bit when his ribs are tickled, its so cute :)

We're still working on the sleeping patterns. He is getting better at going to sleep on his own for daytime naps. We've decided to slowly integrate and teach him to fall asleep on his own rather than cold turkey.

He's eating rice cereal in the evenings, small serving for now as breastfeeding is more important still, he really seems to like it. I found if I left the spoon in his mouth with the food, the more swallowing he did and the food actually gets down.

We're off to Saskatchewan tomorrow, hoping Caden really appreciates his carseat for 10ish hours. I was feeling very anxious and guilty about the travel and that Caden had to spend so much time in his seat... Now I feel more at peace, I know he likes daytime car travel and now that he is playing with toys more, he will be somewhat entertained. Of course, we'll make stops as needed :)

Appreciate your prayers for safe travel and a good trip :) see you on the flip!

Mr. Serious

2010-02-04T11:49:00.001-06:00

I love this pic and the baby in it :)

Looking Past Haiti

2010-01-24T22:57:00.001-06:00

Looking Past Haiti’s Short-Term Needs

Posted using ShareThis

Sleeping

2010-01-24T01:55:00.004-06:00

Caden is 3 months old now. 3 month old babies should sleep 5-6 hours in a night and maybe still need one feeding a night (especially breastfed babies). Lately Caden has been getting up twice a night and sleeping no more than 3 hours consecutively. Soooo...

It's about this time in his life where the books suggest he should learn how to put himself to sleep. To go to sleep initially on their own and in the middle of the night when they wake up (minus one feeding). A good nighttime routine should be established. Then they say for the first few nights of this you will experience them crying alone in their crib, but you are to go re-tuck them every 5-7 minutes, tell them you love them and it's time for sleeping. Now...in the past when I've seen other Mom's do this routine, it drove me crazy, I didn't like watching it, I just wanted to go pick up the baby and hold them and crying would cease. I STILL want to do this with my baby, but I know in the end it doesn't help him. It's a little easier to go through because this is my baby and I know he is fed, dry and not teething (in no pain), he's just emotionally unhappy - I still find it a little difficult. The first night was especially difficult because I gave in after 30 minutes, then had to go through the whole process again after putting him in his crib a second time after trying to rock him to sleep. The first night the whole process lasted 2.5 hours because I gave in the first time...and I cried and prayed to God for help. This is the second night out of 3 that I've let him cry (sometimes less than crying, just unhappy noise - don't know how to explain). It's now been a half hour and I think he's sleeping. (Gonna wait up 5 more mins to be sure).

...he's not sleeping yet...ok...another trip to the crib...

My husband, thankfully, can sleep through crying...yes, that is a good thing, I need him to get a full nights sleep so he can work and provide without being a zombie. I feel no shame napping during the day to compensate for the nights and my husband encourages me to do so...I love him.

There is some light in Caden's room from the kitchen light I leave on, I wonder if he should have a permanent night light. I know I slept with one for years.

I hope this learning curve isn't too steep for either of us and we get through it soon. We've done so well the last 3 months (month 1 was a difficult at times), we have learned a lot from Caden and during the day he rarely cries beyond us figuring out what is bothering him. We have also learned what his different cries mean, we very rarely hear the pain cry...so the cry we hear in his crib is definitely not the pain cry, just the "little unhappy with the situation" cry.

OK, so he's quiet now...if he is actually sleeping, this process was under 1 hour...yay, it's bedtime for Mommy! Sleep well little baby, love you!!

Randoms

2010-01-18T10:29:00.002-06:00

Mondays - It's the day I feel closest to God, probably because you just come off Sunday with church and worship. I also recognize how great the weekends are on Monday. Quinn goes off to work on Monday and I reflect on the 2 full days we had together as a family and it makes me smile. Monday mornings I am filled with thankfulness and grateful for my husband and son. That's Mondays for me.

a few things...not 100.

2010-01-12T08:01:00.005-06:00

1. We have a baby boy, named Caden.

2. He just went through a growth spurt, eating every 2 hours, even at night, yikes!

3. Most nights he's in our bed by 5 or 6am.

4. This way we both spend the rest of the morning sleeping. Seems to be too awake with a normal feeding at that time of the morning.

5. We attended the First annual city wide church service this past Sunday, held at the MTS centre.

6. Worship and communion with 7-8000 other believers, very good!

7. I often watch The Mom's Show and 100 Huntley Street...hey, 100 Huntley Street has some good segments!!

8. It's disturbing how often the secular news casts edit out God in their news stories.

9. Caden is very busy, he got a jumperoo for Christmas, he enjoys bouncing in it :)

10. This time last year I was 1 week pregnant and didn't know it yet.

11. I've never been so busy in my life and so in love with 2 wonderful guys!

12. It's really hard to wipe up spit off a jumping baby.

13. It's grapefruit season, yum!

14. I have never fully watched A Charlie Brown Christmas. We own it now, so it may be a Bogusky family tradition in the years to come.

15. Quinn and I love visiting Vancouver

16. yum...seafood, in every restaurant, seafood everywhere

17. We also enjoyed Vancouver Island, Victoria and beyond

18. We were saddened to learn our honeymoon resort (Aerie Resort) was closed this fall due to economic conditions.

19. I really hope someone reopens it so we can go back one day.

20. Considering we paid the same price for a room in the off-season as an upscale room in a Wpg hotel would be, its so worth it!

21. Caden was awesome yest, hung out in the Jumperoo while Mommy worked out for 1/2 hour.

22. He did some business, so we had to take care of that 2/3rd's through.

23. Needless to say, I stepped out on the patio for a minute to cool down, thank goodness for -2 outside.

24. So tempting to take Caden out for a walk in this weather. Can't yet, don't have one of those all weather covers.

25. They're only about $5, should pick one up sometime.

26. Hoping to jog with him in the summer, we'll see how it goes.

27. He'll probably want to jog.

28.Caden can't yet touch the floor from his jumperoo, even on the lowest setting, so he jumps on our laptop bag...the laptop is not in it :)

29. watching news channel today, devastating situation in haiti.

30. Caden is healthy, we're thankful for our good health and safety here.