Celebrate

Happy New Year Everybody and Welcome to my Blog!

I begin this post with a picture of my hubby who celebrated his 60th birthday tonight.

Yes, I fortunately married a New Year's Eve Baby.

So, the end of each year brings joy to our home.

2009 was a difficult year in many ways but especially relating

to my husband losing his job 01/09/09.

Finances fluctuated

Stress levels soared

Exhaustion enveloped my life

However, God supplied

December brought a beautiful wedding

and a daughter into our family.

And now an opportunity to celebrate 60 years of life

It wasn't too long ago that we couldn't see this day

As we journeyed through Mark's illness and transplant.

But here we are: Celebrating God's Goodness

This year we chose a quiet family dinner.

Melissa had to work so it was just the 5 of us

But it was a great night.

On the menu

Sparkling Cider

Filet Mignon

Veggie Salad

Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes

And Dessert

Individual/Mini Angel Food Cakes

(And yes, I prepared and cooked all the food)

With a choice of four different Haagen Dazs Ice Creams

Cherry Vanilla worked just fine for me

But the Carmel Chocolate Cone

Was good too.

One last 2009 photo with our precious granddaughter

And another year comes to an end.

Where 2010 takes us

Well, I have no idea but I know that wherever we go

God goes with us.

Our family motto:

Through It All: FAITH!!

Peace and God's Best Blessings for you and yours in 2010

Thanks for becoming my bloggy friends

I plan to see more of you in 2010.

Considering 2010 with JOY,

Cindy

UPDATE...Urgent Prayer Request

Newest Update...

Christmas Night

Todd is awake,

talking and joking

Doctors say he is in the less than 1%

who will recover from

a massive brain hemerage

Surgery is scheduled for Sunday

But tonight

It would seem

that GOD has choosen to do a miracle

On this Christmas morning

Todd is beginning to respond to commands

Continuing to Pray!

(Original Post)

Calling all prayer warriors

on Christmas Eve

Friend of family

Todd

36 years old

Has wife and young kids

He had headache yesterday

Son found him this morning having seizure

In hospital now

Bleed on brain

Unsure of outcome

Family is just waiting

Very critical

Will update when information is received

Six Years...

It's December the 17th

Six years ago today my hubby received a kidney transplant

A second chance at life

A light we thought had faded

Now shines brightly again

Six years ago a young man gave life to another

And so we were able to experience this

Last week after the wedding the kids all came over

This is the first time we have all been in the same room

Matthew and his dog Sammy

Andrew, his bride Melissa and their daughter Kori

Cindy (Andrew's birth sister), her hubby Joe, their girls Adrianna and Emaly

Mark and myself

We met Cindy and Adrianna a few years ago but they live in Sacramento

We had never even met Emaly (what a cutie)

We do consider Cindy as our daughter

and her girls as our granddaughters

So we felt like we had our entire family together

for a VERY special weekend

All because Andrew came into our lives as a 21 month old boy

who needed a home

And was willing to give up a kidney to save his daddy

That's Love

That's Joy

That's Family

That's Peace

That's Christmas

That is what Jesus is all about

For our family

The gift of life came as a child

For the world

The gift of eternal life

came as a child

And lives today!

I...Am Not You!

I...Am not you and that is what has kept me away from blogging for quite some time.

When I first began blogging a few years ago it was just to journal my life and journey.

I loved it! Almost daily I would come to this place and just begin typing whatever was on my heart. It was the place I felt safe and comfortable to share the truth about who I am and what I was facing as I journeyed along my path.

Somewhere in the midst of my journey I got lost in the world of numbers. Number of comments, followers, and posts which eventually made blogging become more of a job than a joy. I was attempting to figure out what people wanted to follow, to comment on and what would make others come to MY blog. I tried to do things other 'BIG' blogs did, attempted to lure 'followers' so my comments would be higher but ultimately quit blogging all together.

For me blogging had lost it's purpose and I was no longer fulfilling mine.

I've spent many months seeking the Lord about my life and where I go from here. He has graciously shown me areas both of lack and abundance. He has lifted my eyes and let me gaze upon my life from His perspective. I have seen error in some of my ways and realize where I went wrong. That is why this post is entitled "I...am not you".

I am not the blogger who has hundreds of followers, comments and posts everyday.

I am not the blogger who beautifully writes a post on every situation she faces.

I am not the blogger who can transform everything she touches into works of art then posts the photos as proof.

I am not the blogger who capture's life through the eye of a lens then blogs about it.

I am not the blogger who lives with a Pastor, leads Bible studies and easily blogs about what God is doing in the world.

I am not the blogger who has written several books and can captivate an audience with a few words.

I am not the blogger who see's all of life in pictures and is able to translate to the reader.

I am not the blogger who...


As it has become clearer and clearer of all the things that I am not...
God has opened my eyes to all the things I AM...

I AM...first and foremost a child of the King, the King who has filled my heart with JOY and PEACE.

I AM...a woman who loves Jesus and lives seeking to find joy in every circumstance I see.

I AM...a wife to one man for nearly 29 years. Our life and family motto has always been: 'through it all...FAITH'.

I AM...a mom to two wonderful adopted boys and one of their birth sisters who recently came into our lives. They are my world.

I AM...a nana to three beautiful granddaughters ~ who have brought joy to my heart just by being alive.

I AM...a daughter, sister and auntie! My extended family is vitally important to me and I value all of the moments we get to spend together.

I AM...an administrator, from the center of my being (just ask my hubby) who loves her job and receives great joy in a job well done.

I AM...genuine, loyal, encouraging, honest, hard-working, passionate and compassionate.

I AM...filled with integrity.

I AM...an awesome organizer.

I LOVE...to write.

I LOVE...scrapbooking, photography, decorating and refinishing furniture.

I THINK...I even love blogging.

So, I am back ~ As Me! The person God created! The person who I was meant to be! The person who fell in love with blogging just because!

If I have people who want to follow my blog ~ That is great!

If there are others who want to leave comments ~ I welcome them!

But I won't live for them or try to create them. I just welcome them as the encouragment they are meant to be.

I am happy to be back during the Christmas season because I LOVE CHRISTMAS, I LOVE shopping, I LOVE taking pictures and sharing my heart!

Considering Being Back To My BLOG with Great JOY,
Cindy

Coming Back...

YES!!!

I am coming back to my beloved blog...

After the wedding...

Which is only 67 hours away...

See you soon:)

Future...

Hi All - Or one -

Since having to get a new domain name I have lost virtually all my readers but I still wanted to stop by and say hi.

I am leaving on a jet plane in just a little while. I will be back on Sunday PM.

I have been thinking about and praying about this blog and what to do about it.

I have made my decision and will share that next week.

In the meantime...have a beautiful weekend wherever you live...

I will be in Balitmore!

Blessings, Cindy

Countdown!!!

We are on the countdown to our son's wedding...

33 Days...

Not a lot of posting in the near future...

But praying for all of you

as we prepare for this very special event...

Stay Healthy!!!!

Drinks lots of water...

Get lots of rest...

Pray...

Love you...

Considering This Season With Great JOY...

Cindy

Pray For Stellan...

PLEASE

Pray For Stellan

Click Here

Here I Am...

Awake: at 2:45 AM

Eating: Ritz Crackers - my tummy is upset

Listening: to the wind blow outside my office window

Wondering: why I cannot go to sleep

Wearing: a really cute red long sleeved night shirt

Happy: that my son is getting married in 5 weeks

Sad: that my life has changed so much and I just can't seem to find the joy I used to have

Piled: on my desk, three weeks of mail that I just can't find the time to tend to

Peace: where did it go, my heart is so restless

Weight Loss: are you kidding me

Ice Cream: that's probably why I am still awake

FarmVille: I think that is where I will go now

Considering Life with Questions,
Cindy

A Quick Hello!

Hi Friends and Thanks for stopping by my blog.

I haven't had much to say recently but wanted to at least say hi and let you know I am still here.

Life is busy during the beginning of this year's flu season.

It seems the influenza season has started early and with a bang.

We have been told that influenza A & B have not really hit yet and everything that is coming back positive in H1N1. I've never seen so many sick families. Even our 5 year old granddaughter was sick last week and she has never been sick.

So far, our staff has stayed healthy and we are praying daily to keep it that way.

Praying for you and your family to stay healthy also.

I hope to have some wonderful post by the weekend but until then remember:

"A cheerful heart is good medicine"

Proverbs 17:22a

I intend to be VERY cheerful during flu season!!!

Blessings to all,

Cindy

A Great Day At Marley Farms!

Our FABULOUS Silver Lining Team

My niece CT with Pro Baseball Player and Marley Farms Owner Shea Hillenbrand

after her very first competition and ribbons.

CT with my mom ~ It was so great
to have mom there to watch the kids
just a few weeks after breaking her hip.

Matthew and his new buddy Second Chance!

AB gets a hug from mom
after winning her first
division championship.

AB with some of her ribbons

and trophies

Matthew and AB with Shea Hillenbrand after their wins.

I wasn't able to take more pictures this time but we had 5 of our team members win championship in their divisions, 1 win reserve-champion and everyone else placed in their divisions. What an awesome group of kids we have. Of course, I am not bias or anything but our team is the most well behaved, encouraging, kind hearted TEAM in Arizona.

Special thanks to Kristin Cason, Silver Lining Hunters and Jumpers

and her family for all of their hard work and dedication to our kids.

You are simply the BEST!

Considering Life with Horses Joyful, Cindy

A Final Farewell!

BOSE

You were only a part of our lives for a few short months

but the impact you had will last a lifetime.

Oh yes, you came in with an attitude

and...you liked to bite

However, none of us could help

but to fall in love with you.

I've never seen a horse flap his lips the way you did
but it seemed you always had something to say.

Lessons learned through patience,

perseverance and practice

were many.

You taught us to be kind and understanding

when someone is in pain.

And to listen with our eyes and hearts

and not just our ears.

Being strong is good

but being compassionate is better.

You built confidence in our children.

Somehow, even with your persnickety attitude

our kids knew they could trust you (sort of)

and chose to.

I personally watched Matthew

grow into a confident rider

while on your back in Flagstaff.

I saw the same with Courtney

who came into riding with fear

but once she met you

began to blossom and believe in herself.

Ribbons will come and go.

Competitions will too.

But our memories of you will

last forever.

So Bose,

we thank you for allowing us to love you,

for pushing us to have patience and

perseverance when we wanted to quit.

Thank you for accepting us

and teaching us to accept you.

Thank you for building confidence,

compassion and love in our kids.

I don't want to type these words

but here is one final farewell.

We love you and miss you our friend.

Enjoy your life with Buzz.

And watch as our kids blossom

...Because of you.

Take a bow and accept one last
kiss on your head.

Considering Bose With Joy,

Cindy

That's What Happens...

I had to get a new domain name!!!

That's what happens when you never check your gmail and your domain hosting fees are due. It's what also happens when your credit card on file with google expired and they can't automatically charge your account.

So here we are weeks later...and a new domain name.

Now you are all receiving notification from me because I am sometimes known as a 'dork'...and yes I really do know what 'dork' means but sometimes you just are!

I hope I haven't lost all my fellow bloggy friends...I will be visiting all of you during this next week.

Quick update on my mom...she is doing very well. I can't believe she broke her hip 10 days ago at age 73 and she is already up walking around and taking care of herself. I just got off the phone with her and she sounds great. It is amazing what God can do when you trust Him and live a life of positive affirmation.

I hope to begin posting on a regular basis again as we are all getting back into regular routines now that summer is over (well, at least in most areas). It's still over 100 here:(

Blessings to all!
Considering It All Joy,
Cindy

Update on Mom

**Update!

Mom did break her right hip.
She had surgery yesterday (Thursday) and will be in the hospital/rehab center for ?a week?
Thank you so much for praying.
She is doing well.

What would be all do in life if we didn't have Jesus to lean on and friends to lift us up to Him? So Grateful!!!!



Please pray!!!

My 73 year old mom fell at a restuarant.

She was rushed to a nearby hospital.

Possible broken hip and...

Please pray!!!

I'll update when I can.

Thank you,
Considering Prayer Warriors Necessary,
Cindy

11:59.59

It's 11:58 and the need must be met.

Down on our knees we pray.

No pleading, no begging, no whining.

Just pure and simple childlike faith knowing God is faithful.

It's 11:59 with just seconds to spare - the answer.

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Do you ever feel that is the story of your life? You have a need that must be met and God waits until the very last second to show up with the answer? I have felt that way many times in my life.

We have just experienced it again.

A few years ago our youngest son applied for disability, something we could have done when he was very young but we waited until he was 21. The process took 18 months. In those days you did receive retro pay but only small amounts every 6 months and one final payment at 1 year. We were very frustrated because we thought we needed the money. But wait was the order of the process.

Fast forward to January 2009 when my husband lost his job and applied for disability due to his kidney transplant and other health issues. There is no way we could make it 18 months for disability and certainly could not continue to support our lives on my income alone.

I bet you can guess what payment came to our checking account 3 weeks later - yes - Matthew's disability payment, 70% of which legally goes to rent and living expenses. It seemed it was the last hour and God came through. He met the need.

However, it doesn't last forever, and even though I took on two more part time jobs and worked as many hours as I possibly could, there still is just not enough to meet our daily needs. (You may be thinking that we live high on the hog but NO. We just have a LOT of medical bills due to the high cost of transplant medications and ongoing open wounds on my husbands legs.)

Continuing in prayer and trusting in God's faithfulness, we waited.

It's 11:59.59 - we need God to intervene - and of course He does.

My husbands disability was approved in 6 months - no retro pay - BUT the first monthly payment arrived on Wednesday - 3 days after I paid bills and depleted our 'surplus'.

Once again our faith was tested and challenged but once again we trusted and God came through. Faith grows in the midst of adversity and we are so thankful it does.

God does not always have us wait until the last possible moment to met a need. Sometimes he meets the need before we even know we have it. There are just times and circumstances when He desires for us to learn, trust, grow and depend on Him more.

Everything seems to go back to my life scripture:

"Consider it all joy, my friends, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4

Mature and complete is exactly where God is taking us. We are not there yet, but on our way.

What about you? Does God make you wait at times until the very last second for an answer to your prayers? Maybe he is just allowing you to grow in faith!

Considering 11:59.59 with Joy,

Cindy

First Time Friends at '50' ~ Fabulous!

It is so encouraging to have friends whom I've known for more than 30 - 50 years. Those girls I grew up with way back in the days when trick or treating was an all night event and we came home with pillowcases FULL of candy and homemade goodies that we really could eat. The ones that time and distance tried to separate but facebook and blogs have reconnected. The ones that know everything about me and still love me.


Then there are the ones you have known throughout your young married life and the years when you raised your children together. It wouldn't have been so much FUN going through THOSE years without some special girlfriends in your life. Communication with them may be different today but not a week goes by without connection of some sort and always plenty of laughs when we look at our kids now and reflect on how we got here.


And now, being mature and all grown up *giggle*, I have had the pleasure of making new friends.


Over the past year and a half I have met and made some wonderful new friends through this blog. I cannot imagine life not knowing these girls. One such friend made a trip to my home town this past week and I had the honor of having lunch with her.


We both turned '50' last year and are celebrating life through loving our families, blogging and being the best grandmothers on earth :) Oh, Yes we are!!!!


Meet my friend Connie from Connie Turned 50.

What a fun time we enjoyed talking as though we had known each other for years. Making our waitress wait forever for our order because we just didn't have time to look at the menu and then wait some more because we didn't want to leave.

Connie is sweet, down to earth, loving and a family girl. She is funny and genuine. I love her blog ~ all about family and life ~ please stop by and meet her some time, you will be glad you did.

Considering New Friends With Joy, Cindy

Time Won't Stand Still!

Somewhere in America

A precious angel

Went to her first day

of kindergarten

And a Nana cried

Sigh...

Considering All Things With Joy,

Cindy

Top to Bottom ~ It's All For HIM!

Some would say I have a prestigious job, Office Administrator for a medical pratice in the 5th largest city in the country. I can be found on any given day corresponding or chatting with the governor of our state, negotiating contracts with payroll companies, drug reps, or health insurance companies, or any one of a hundred other things including not so pretty things like cleaning up vomit when kids are sick.

But at the same time I hold the title of janitor. Due to our economy and the fact that my husband is no longer working, I can also be found cleaning a medical office 5 nights a week.

Along with those two titles I am also wife, mom, nana, sister, daughter, auntie, friend, ministry leader, teacher, etc, etc, etc.

So what's in a title? Nothing, well nothing as important as the following scripture.

Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17

You can be sure that I have not mastered the above verse however God continues to develop His character within me and fine tune my attitude while honoring Him in all I do and say.

Whether I'm cleaning a toilet, playing with my grandchild, speaking to the governor or rooming a patient, I must always remember that I am to do it all for His glory not mine.

What about you? Where are you in your life today? Do you feel you don't have purpose? Do you feel like all you do is wash dishes, do laundry or clean up after people? Does your job lack a certain title that you have always wanted?

Be challenged and encouraged today: Whatever your title or lack of title - live a life that is pleasing to the Lord. In all you do or say - do it in name of the Lord.

Considering All Titles Joyful,

Cindy

I can't believe we did this!

It was the fall of 2005.

Our last pet had passed away (still miss you Max).

We decided it was time to have a pool built and re-landscape our backyard.

I, being the picky perfectionist I can be, decided that we would NEVER have another pet.

I love my backyard by mostly I LOVE not have to pick up any pet mess, if you know what I mean. I also love not having to use a lint brush everyday before I leave my house for work.

But as you can see,

NEVER doesn't work and

perfectionism just needs to retire.

Besides, how could I say NO to our son after he won all those ribbons last week.

So, meet Sammy, a 4 pound, 1 year old Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix.

Spoiled rotten already.

Sleeps in his new bed On Top of our son's bed.

I guess I'll be getting the lint brush out again:)

Considering Sammy with Joy,

Cindy

Cooler Air

As you can tell, I haven't blogged for a week.

We have been away enjoying the cooler air of Flagstaff, Arizona.

Phoenix has gotten so terribly HOT and we needed a break.

If you think we were just sitting around, lounging and enjoying the pool, you are wrong.

We enjoyed several days of fast paced, hard work.

Our son Matthew was involved in the Copper State Horse Show.

What an event.

This is only his second show and his first B Rated Show.

I am absolutely amazed at how much he has learned since he first began taking lessons last September.

I believe more will be explained by just sharing a few pictures.

12" cross-rail jumps

With his trainer Kristin after the first competition

He and his horse Bose with his first day ribbons

A special thank you to his horse

Matthew won 5 first place ribbons and the overall chamionship of his division the first day.

The second day he moved to a higher division and won 1 first place and 2 second place ribbons.

You should have seen his smile:D

We can't thank Kristin from Silver Lining Hunters and Jumpers for all of her hard work dedication to our son and her program. Matthew has blossomed and is thriving due to her commitment to see kids learn not only riding skills but skills for life. Riding and all that goes with it has become therapeutic, not just for Matthew, but for our family.

You Kristin, are our HERO~~

When I think about the day the social worker placed Matthew in my arms when he was 4 months old and gave me the limited prognosis for his life, when I think about the day at 5 years old when Matthew was kicked in the face by a horse and lost all of his front teeth, when I think about the day we nearly lost Matthew due to a ruptured appendix, and then I look at this young man today well, a more proud and grateful mama you could never find:)

Considering The Love For Our Kids With Joy,

Cindy

Answered Prayer!

The news we have been waiting for has arrived.

After nearly 8 long months of working 4 jobs, I may be able to quit one of them.

The letter reads: Approved!

No denial, no appeals process, just approved.

It seems that Renal failure/transplant are automatic approvals for disability.

Yes, that is right, my husband was finally approved for disability.

But how can such sweet notice be met with such bittersweet response?

It seems while I am doing the HAPPY dance,

My husband is feeling less that Happy.

I never thought about how this would affect him.

My husband is a born provider, nearly a work-a-holic.

Now, with this news, he is face to face with the reality of never being able to work again.

Though we knew he couldn't work, there is just something about seeing it in black and white.

Now the true adjustments begin.

Or, haven't we been making those all along?

God walks us through the journey.

He doesn't move us from point A to point Z.

Daily our lives are being moved around the playing field like pawns in a game of chess.

Us making moves and God rearranging our movement (as we listen to His voice) to get us where he ultimately wants us:

Check Mate!

He captured us!

He captured our hearts!

He captured our hopes, dreams, and lives!

He captured our love and attention!

Check Mate ~

Captured ~

By a Loving Father ~

There is no other place I want to be!

Considering Being Captured With Joy,

Cindy

A "Messy" Book Review!

Let God make something beautiful out of the messes of your life.

Here’s hope for every woman who worries she isn’t good enough or doesn’t do enough to merit God’s affection. With warm authenticity, Lisa Harper takes readers on a story-driven study of select Psalms, providing a clear picture of how God’s incomparable love transforms messy lives into gorgeous works of grace.

Caught up in the self-imposed pressure to do and be all the things they think a Christian woman ought to do and be, countless women are working desperately to convince everyone, including God, that they have it all together. Few have any idea that the Creator of the universe looks at them with delight even when they yell at the dog, drive a minivan littered with French fries, or think bad words about that rude clerk at the store.


A Perfect Mess offers hope to every woman who yearns for a vibrant relationship with God but worries she isn’t good enough or doesn’t do enough to merit His affection. With characteristic authenticity, speaker and author Lisa Harper shares poignant stories from her own imperfect life to showcase the real-life relevancy of the Bible in the lives of modern women.

There is Freedom for women hidden throughout the verses of God's Word. Dig in, take a bite, savor the sweetness and enjoy the refreshment of the Psalms while coming to terms with our imperfections and His Redeeming Grace.


Author Bio:
Lisa Harper is a master storyteller whose lively approach connects the dots between the Bible era and modern life. She is a sought-after Bible teacher and speaker whose upcoming appearances include the national Women of Faith Conferences. A veteran of numerous radio and television programs and the author of several books, she also is a regular columnist for Today’s Christian Woman magazine. Lisa recently completed a master’s of theological studies from Covenant Theological Seminary. She makes her home outside


To purchase your copy of A Perfect Mess go to: Random House

Here we go again!

***Warning***

You may find the photos below gross

Do not look if you don't like open wounds

After one year of visiting the Wound Center on a weekly basis

We thought we would never have to go back

Mark has been, for the most part, wound free for nearly one year

A couple of months ago he had a tiny little sore on his leg

Now it looks like this

We are praying for closure

So it doesn't start looking more like this:

Wound of 2007/2008

A kidney transplant is a wonderful treatment

for Renal Failure

And...We are grateful for 5 1/2 years that we

did not think we would have

But the side effects of immunosuppressant's

can be as difficult as dealing with the kidney failure

In all things

We Praise the Lord

For He is Good

And He is God!!

Consider it pure joy, my friends, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

We continually search for Good in ALL Things

We continually See God's Blessings

While we are being made mature and complete:)

Cindy

Monday's Question!

Here it is, short and sweet:

HAVE YOU STOPPED?

Yes, that is the question.

What does it mean?

It is summer.

We are all so very busy making sure our children and families enjoy every moment of their summer break. We certainly don't want to hear our children say they are BORED!

We pack our cars and take short trips, go to the park, swimming pool, beach, McDonald's play area, amusement park, library, any place to keep our kids busy, busy, busy.

Then if that weren't enough, we go on vacation - nope - those things above weren't vacation - they were just things to do. Now we are off for a REAL vacation! Seven to fourteen glorious, event filled days. Running here and there across the country so our children can tell everybody 'What they did on summer vacation' when they get back to school.

And, just in case those little darlings do get bored, we can always invite every child in the neighborhood over for a swim party, BBQ and sleep over.

By the end of summer, mom is exhausted, the finances are depleted, and the kids are still bored.

HAVE YOU STOPPED?

Have you taken time to be quiet before the Lord this summer?

Have you stopped to smell the roses, daffodils, or gardenias this summer?

Have you stopped to thank God for the blessings of life?

Have you stopped to just look into the eyes of your loved one and tell them face to face how blessed you are and how much you love them?

Have you stopped to just read a book, sit at the dinner table, or play in bed with the kids in the morning?

My list could go on and on but the question is simple:

HAVE YOU STOPPED?

Considering Stopping from time to time Joyful,
Cindy

Happy Birthday My Little Angel Bug:)

In the early hours of the morning of July 12, 2004

through sleepy tear-filled eyes we welcomed

Kori Alexis into the world, our family and my heart.

I cannot remember a more precious moment,

even the thought of it now takes my breath away

as my eyes become moist with tears.

It is hard to believe that 5 years have passed.

So many treasured moments have been shared.

Today, with joy, I say:

Happy Birthday To My Little Angel Bug:)

Nana loves you so much.

I cannot imagine our lives without you.

I treasure every moment we are together,

And miss you terribly when we are not.

You are a gift that only God could give.

You are so loved.

~HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRECIOUS CHILD~

MIRACLES?

Sometimes God says NO to miracles!

Sometimes God doesn't answer prayers the way we think He should.

Sometimes we just can't understand.

Sometimes we suffer great loss.

Sometimes our hearts are torn by pain.

Tonight, the miracle we were praying for did not happen.

Tonight, I don't understand.

Tonight, loss is hard.

Tonight, my heart is aching and tired.

Tonight, I thank you for your prayers!

Tonight, when I close my eyes to rest

I Still Trust God 100%

Because, tonight,

God still sits on the Throne,

Is still Father,

Is still Son,

Is still Holy Spirit,

Is still Lord,

Is still God,

And Continues to Love!

Tonight, I Love Him more than ever!

Prayer Request!

And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

I do believe with everything within my being that God supplies all of our needs.

It is not my habit to ask for anything unnecessarily.

It is not my habit to ask for anything out of selfish ambition.

It IS my habit to go before the Throne of God

when a need is pressing my heart.

Father,

Tonight, I seek Your face for a miracle.

You, my Precious Lord, know the need before us.

You, oh Lord, can hear our hearts cry.

On my face I seek You.

On my knees I lay my request.

Openly and Humbly

I pour out my heart and ask You to intervene

Where only You can.

Tonight, Lord, we need a miracle.

Amen

Writer's Block~

Though I have never professed to be a writer ~ I am suffering from 'writer's block'.

I love writing and I have enjoyed blogging very much. Somehow though, as the days of summer have heated up (112 yesterday plus humidity), my brain cells must have melted. As I reread about my own donut binge I realized that I must have nothing challenging or purposeful to say.

Therefore, today I will just share a few photos of people and places that have touched my life over the past couple of weeks.

Andrew lives at his place of employment and the kids got a kick out of

playing on some of the tractors.

Swimming with my oldest son, granddaughter and Sally.

My niece was rejoicing in making her own birthday cake.

My friend and employer and I got pedicures while on vacation together.





This is my friend and employer who allowed my hubby and I and our son to vacation with her and her hubby. Here we were on the patio working a puzzle.





At my oldest son's house (trailer) with his Sally, our granddaughter and youngest son.





Hubby and I before we went to the Symphony.

This is one of my favorites. Matthew and Kori walking hand in hand back to
Andrew's house after playing on the 'equipment'.

Yes, I turned off all electronics BUT...I still used my camera:)

Considering time with family, pictures, and writer's block a real joy,
Cindy

Confessions Of A...

This is the email I sent to my good friend today!

I cannot tell you what is wrong with me...

'Cuz I don't know...

But...

I have nearly single handedly eaten an entire box of entenmanns glazed donut holes...

In one day...

And...

Worse than that...

I didn't buy them...

Or bring them to work...

Someone else did... And...

I didn't even ask...

I just ate...

These are the confessions...

Of a junk-food...

Sweet addictied...

Food-aholic...

ARGH!!!!!!!

:o(

I'm Baaaack!!!!

A week to shut out the world:)

I not only survived ~

I THRIVED~~~

This past week was just what the doctor ordered.

And speaking of doctors ~

The one I work for is unbelievable.

I couldn't share much before my time away,

but my employer not only gave me a week off from

both of my jobs ~ she sent me, my hubby and son

to a resort for 6 marvelous days.

There is no way to express my gratitude

except to continue to be a Godly, hard working

employee who continuously remembers

that I work for the Lord in all things.

When I realize that everything I do is done

as unto the Lord ~ God blesses in

ways unimaginable.

I did miss visiting your blogs but

I did not miss spending time on the computer.

It was so refreshing to spend time with my husband and son

without the distractions of media in any way

(my son did bring his laptop but I didn't even peak).

I slept, swam, went to the gym, took some water aerobics classes,

read a couple books, and relaxed so much that I am

truly rested and ready to return to work in the morning.

I cannot remember a time in my life when I have felt so refreshed:)

I am so blessed!

As far as the future of this blog, well I am not quite sure.

I do plan on continuing but to what extend only God knows for sure.

I will skip Monday's Question this week and

will just see where the Lord takes me.

I hope to visit all of your blogs this week

while I readjust to my work schedule and

life back on planet reality:)

Blessings to you all!

Considering A Week Away With Great Joy,

Cindy

Monday's Question...A Little Early!

This is a super quickie post!

I am on vacation from work - ALL WORK - for the next 9 days.

I am shutting off the outside world and just vegging with God, my hubby and family.

No computer, internet or TV.

Question:

Have you ever done that before?

Have you ever turned OFF your electronics and just focused on God and the people in your immediate family?

That is what I am doing for the next 9 days - let's see how long it lasts.

I plan on seeing all of you for our next Monday's Question on the 22nd of June:)

Blessings to all!

Considering This With Interest,
Cindy

Monday's Question on The Lighter Side!

I can't believe it has been a week since I last posted.

I would love to tell you it is because I have spent so much time pondering last week's question with the Lord or that I've been spending hours reading scriptures, praying and seeking answers for my future but in reality it is because I have been working too many hours and when I do finally get home, as late as 11:30 pm, I am just too tired to turn on my computer.

It could be that is how the Lord is going to lower my computer time ~ just make her work her fingers to the bone so she won't want to get on the computer ~ He's funny that way sometimes.

I've been thinking about this week's question for a couple of days. Because last week's question was a bit intense, at least for me, I wanted to lighten up this week, so here it is:

In light of our economic fragility this year, have you made changes in your vacation, summer plans? What are you going to do with the kiddos? Do you have vacation plans?

My husband and I did not travel last year due to the economy and this year, due to the fact that he is no longer working, we will not travel again.

I am trying to think of inexpensive ways to enjoy the weekends or other days that I may take off this summer. I have not taken any time off work in two years and am in need of some R&R.

We do not have young children at home but we do have a 23 year old 'special needs' son who lives with us so we need to keep him in our plans. We also care for our 4 year old granddaughter two nights a week therefore we cannot be gone for any length of time.

Also, due to my husband's illness, he cannot walk far or enjoy things that involve too much physical activity. Hmmmm??? Sounds like we will be staying home:(

Please share your summer plans so I can live vicariously through you:) LOL!!

Considering Vacation Time Joyful,
Cindy

Monday's Question and Another Winner!

Hi All,

I'm a bit behind on posting my Monday's Question but better late than never.

I'll get straight to it.

Have you used blogging as a substitute for interpersonal relationships?

What???

Yes, that is the question.

This is a very difficult question to ask but an even more difficult one to answer.


If you have read my blog at all there is one thing you know about me: I am nothing if not honest about life and what I have faced, especially in the past couple of years. That is what makes this question difficult for me to answer because honesty opens the door to vulnerability. There are those who read my blog whom I would maybe prefer NOT know some things about me but here I am.


Although I have been a sales director with Mary Kay, a Women's Pastor at a fairly large church and am currently the Women's Ministries Director at our sweet small church, I am generally a very shy person. It has always been difficult for me to make new friends but once made, I keep them for a lifetime. But in the past two years, after an extremely emotional and devastating separation from our old church, I have retreated and had a very hard time making new friends. There are days when insecurities cause my mouth to lock tight, and other days when getting out of bed seems nearly impossible. My mind wants to be friendly and join in conversations but my body becomes paralyzed with fear of being hurt again.


I have sought the Lord and His healing power. I can work without any hint of fear but when it comes to making new friends or getting involved in new things I just freeze.


Blogging became a part of my life a year ago as a means of journaling my experiences with loss and grief. I didn't really think I would make friends but I have and I greatly enjoy hearing from other bloggers as well as reading your posts. However, it has set up the perfect opportunity for me to have relationships without the concern of having my heart ripped out again.


Thus, in recent months the Lord has been speaking to my heart about the amount of time I spend blogging, on facebook or emailing in general. For me, unfortunately, the answer to this question must be yes, I have used blogging as a substitute for interpersonal relationships.


There, I said it, can I be done now?


Not so fast! When the Lord poses a question to my heart He usually doesn't just want a trite answer, but a heart-felt one covered in prayer and surrounded with honesty and a willingness to be transformed. This week I will be praying for myself in response to this question and for you. But I am sure that I am the only person who has this issue, right?


I am not quite sure where this leaves me. I am prayerful that God will adjust my blog time and number of posts. I will say that facebook will probably be a thing of the past though. For now I will be seeking my Jesus and His answer to this very question.


You may not want to answer this question publicly. You are welcome to email me or just let me know if it made you think!


Considering Monday's Question A Joyful Thing!
Cindy

By The Way ~ The Winner of My 1 Year/100 Post is Debbie at HeartChoice. Congratulations and make sure you all stop by her blog for great Fitness Friday Tips.