Happy Birthday Markie...

Happy Birthday Mark

Well Markie, This year instead of preparing for our annual New Year's Eve Family Man birthday party I picked up your 'sprinkles'! Matthew doesn't like the word 'ashes' so 'sprinkles' it is:)

There are so very many words in my heart of which I am just unable to put together in grammatical order. You have been my strength for more than 30 years and I feel so weak without you.

I thank you though for allowing me to be who God created me to be, for allowing me independence and teaching me to do so many things including putting air in the tires and oil in the car. I know how to change the air filter for the AC, clean the pool equipment, climb into the attic, kill spiders, fix the toilet, clean a drain, and fix a leaky faucet. I can use a chain saw, table saw, circular saw and hack saw! Drills, sanders, hammers, screwdrivers, dremel's and wrenches were all a part of my everyday life. I can climb a ladder, get on the roof (I hated that), mow the law and use the edger and blower/vac. I have re-screened windows, re-weathered the doors, (which BTW needs to be done) painted every wall inside and outside this home more than a few times. You challenged me to learn, to grow and to become aware of my surrounding!

At the same time you treated me with respect, laughed at my silly jokes, and put up with my 'independence' as well as encouraged me to reach for my dreams. You were gentle, kind, selfless, and loving. But you were also passive and stubborn and sometimes just plain made me crazy. You taught me so very much in 30+ years together.

But one thing you didn't teach me was how to do this life alone. I'm afraid I'm not doing so well. My heart aches to hear your voice and see your face. I liked my 'independence' but Loved being dependent on you and knowing that No Matter What You were Always here for Me!

I know your body was tired, I know Jesus said 'It's Time', I know you are happy and healthy but Markie, I'm so lost without you. I miss you so much and long for the day Jesus calls me home!

Until that time I will be strong, I will continue to build on the legacy of your life and our family, I will make you proud and always spread the glory of God and His miracles in our lives.

Tonight I will lift up my head and smile as the clock turns 12 and know that you are with Jesus to never feel pain again. Tonight I will lift up my eyes to the one who must be my strength.

This week I will read the final chapter of our lives together and open the cover on the new book God has written. To do it without you though...I'm just not sure. One thing I am sure of though is that I can't finish this note to you...Ever!!!!

Celebration of Life Service

Mark Wells Cain

December 31, 1949 ~ December 24, 2010

Saturday

January 8, 2011

1:00 PM

Adventure Community Church

4633 E. Chandler Blvd

Phoenix, AZ 85048

480-940-3540

In lieu of flowers

donations may be made in Mark's name to:

Adventure Community Church Mission's Department

at the address above

Arrangements...

So much more difficult are the days

So much quieter the nights

Through numbness arrangements are made

Through tears memories are shared

Celebration of Life

Mark Wells Cain

Saturday

January 8, 2011

1:00 PM

Adventure Community Church

4633 E. Chandler Blvd

Phoenix, AZ 85048

480-940-3540

In Lieu of Flowers

Donations may be made to:

Adventure Community Church Mission's Department

above address

More to come...

Our Life Motto:

Through It All: FAITH

Cindy

HEAVEN

Heaven is where my hubby

has decided to spend Jesus' Birthday

December 31, 1949 ~ December 24, 2010

I'll Always Love You

My Friend

Can You Believe Another Anniversary???

Christmas Day 22 & 23 bring more joy-filled memories of blessings great and small.

In these past few days I have reflected on how gracious God has been to our family during the month of December for most all of our married life.

12/17 ... The date of hubby's transplant 2003

12/18 ... The date of son #1's final adoption 1984

12/20 ... The date Pfizer committed to help supply hubby's meds 2010

12/23 ... The date of son #2's final adoption 1987

12/31 ... The date of hubby's birth (????)

Yes, on this date in 1987, our youngest son turned 2 1/2 and we walked up those familiar stairs to the judges chambers and signed those precious papers that would tell the world that on this date 12/23/1987 Jeremy Mellor would forever be known as Matthew James Cain.

Little Matthew came to our home when he was just 4 months old. Our social worker gave us very little hope for his future and told us not to get too attached because they didn't expect him to live a year. Prayer Peeps...Prayer!!!!


This past summer we took a very short trip back to Bridgeport, CA and revisited the judges chambers...if only to take a few photos...and remember the two very special days we spent in that room.

This Christmas season has been very different for our family. We have struggled through some difficult times yet God has chosen to fill my heart with gratefulness and wonderful memories of treasured moments.

This year you haven't heard me talking too much about shopping, buying and wrapping of gifts for this year the gifts we are treasuring are the moments we have. We don't know what this next year will hold for our family so we are valuing life and relationship instead of 'stuff'.

I was able to spend most of today with my K-Bug and K-Bel...what fun times we have together. K-bug made cookies again and a mess was had by all:) She made Pop a special heart cookie, she loves him so much and wants him to get better.

This year we don't know if he's going to get better, he's been fairly ill the past few days. We are praying and believing God for miracles.

So, we treasure the moments!!!

Are you treasuring the moments? Are you loving and honoring the relationships you have? Are you making memories for a lifetime? Are you creating a legacy in your children and grandchildren? Are you passing the Gift of Jesus on to them?

Or are you spending so much time/money/effort on 'Christmas' that you have forgotten 'Christ'?

I pray that we All focus on not just the babe in the manger but the Jesus who sacrificed His life so that we All would be given the Gift of Eternal Life with our Creator!!

Merry Christmas,
Cindy

Christmas Day 21

This is how my day began

Up before the sun rose

And then a quick trip to the back yard

Now these pictures just don't do justice to the sunrise

But I will say

It Was Breathtakingly Beautiful

The rest of my day was spent at the office

The schedule has been completely booked

So many sick little tykes

Sorry to say pneumonia is going around

We had our first couple of positive influenza's today

We heard it was really supposed to hit our area around Christmas

So here we are just days away

And.....

Tonight I'm home relaxing

So tired due to being sick for a couple weeks

My youngest called me today

Mom, I have a sore throat

Hurting ears, body aches

Guess he'll be seen tomorrow

Can you believe Christmas is just days away

It happens so quickly

I'm glad that I have Thursday thru Monday off work!!

Lots of time to just Enjoy God's Presence!!!

What is your plan for Christmas Eve/Day?

We will spend Christmas Eve with friends and then church!

I LOVE Christmas Eve Worship Service!!

Now, I must spend some time in prayer

As I have a huge decision to make in the next 48 hours

Please pray with me as this decision with affect

not only me but several other's involved in my life

And may affect our finances in the year ahead

Blessings to All My Friendly Peeps,

Cindy

Christmas Day 20

Not so much today ~~~ Just work ~~~ Home for dinner~

I may go shopping with a friend about 8:30 tonight!

Otherwise, I have been looking at the Christmas tree and smiling!!

I am so boring:)

So happy to report that hubby was actually able to cook dinner tonight!

It was nice to come home to a nice hot meal after working all day.

Now he's super tired and going to rest but we are grateful for every tiny glimpse of improvement!!!

Cindy

Christmas Day 19

Filled with Joy, Filled with Fun, Filled with Excitement, Filled with Sugar!!!!

This day was Awesome!

Worship Service this morning where the kids sang a couple of their songs from the program they have been working so hard preparing ~ Fabulous!!

Home for lunch with the final rehearsal at 2 and the performance at 4!!

Sorry, I don't have any photos to share since I was behind the curtain! But my good friend took 217 so I'm sure I will have a few to share soon.

One of our church members had these beautiful cookies made for all of the church leadership and ministry helpers...Isn't it an adorable cookie?

I stared at it for about 10 minutes and then...............YEP!! I ate the whole thing and let me tell you, it was as good to eat as it was to look at:)

We are now home and Kori is here having a fun time with Nana!!!

Here is what we have been doing!!!

Yes ~~~ When I take this little angel home in awhile her parents are going to have a 'fun' time attempting to get her calmed down and to sleep :D I think that is what Nana's are for!!

Considering December 19th a Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Day 18

Today we celebrate another anniversary in our household.

On this date in 1985 we took our foster son to court and finalized his adoption!!!

Donald Jay Moore Jr officially became Andrew Mark Cain and we couldn't be happier!

Andrew came to us in August 1983 when he was 21 months old as a foster child. Though we had months of court dates and concerns I knew in my heart that he would eventually be ours!

Today we celebrate the 25th anniversary of his legal adoption. I just love this young man.

Today I am also grateful for the 'family' of Christ that we are All adopted into.

"So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves.

Instead, you received God's Spirit when He adopted you as His own children.

Now we call Him, 'Abba Father'".

Romans 8:15

God has chosen You to be His!! Have you accepted and received His desire to be Your Daddy? I'm praying that this Christmas season you will find the Peace of being in relationship with Him.

Considering Adoption With Great Joy,

Cindy

A Mighty Awesome Anniversary

I could share multiple photographs of this most incredible day however I will spare you the details.

On December 17, 2003 our oldest 'adopted' son Andrew willingly and unselfishly donated one of his precious kidney's to his dad.

Mark had been diagnosed with end stage renal failure in March 2003. Andrew had just left home to test life on his own when the news came. Although we told him that because he was adopted he would probably not be able to donate a kidney he went on his own to be tested. Miracles...he was a perfect match.

Less than 9 months from the date of diagnosis Mark had a new kidney and here we are 7 years later with that very special kidney still functioning perfectly.

Yes, this has been an extremely trying year and yes we almost lost Mark a couple months ago due to Legionnaire's disease and Aspergilla's growing in his lungs but here we are on this special anniversary.

Tonight, instead of focusing on preparations for Christmas, we are rejoicing in God's miracles and thanking Him, not only for His Son but for the one He allowed us to adopt.

Considering Anniversaries With The Greatest Of Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Days 13, 14, 15,&16

Oh My Goodness ~~~ How did I get so far behind??

I don't know where this week has gone!

Sorry ~ No pictures ~ my camera has been MIA ~ I think hiding under some 'stuff' on my desk!!

I cannot say I have done much Christmas preparation during these past few days. Although I did attend our church's Christmas program rehearsal both Monday and Tuesday evenings. Otherwise, I have just worked and come home exhausted as I have been sick for over two weeks. I suppose with everything we have faced these past few months my body is just warn down and my immune system a bit weak. Or...is it because I only eat junk and have gained so much weight that my body doesn't remember how it is supposed to function? Probably a little of both!

I must admit that I did give myself a gift on Tuesday. I took most of the work day OFF and spent 6 hours shopping! Oh, I didn't buy much, mostly just window shopped but it was wonderful to spend time ALONE (with a million other people shopping) and not have any agenda. I went to places I have been longing to visit, touched, smelled and enjoyed the 'stuff' and music!!

I found a store that had these and these ... NO, I didn't buy any but they did bring back some fun memories of childhood visits to the theater.

Since Mark was laid off work nearly two years ago and has been so ill this year, I find that I never have alone time and those few hours really filled a need I had. I think I may just do it again this week.

Beyond that, today was K-bel day...so I spent from 10a - 4p holding, loving and spoiling her. Yes, I let her sleep for awhile. It's just fun to have her for a few hours a week. Then off to run a few quick errands and now home. Wouldn't you know it...as soon as I walked outside to run errands the skies just opened up and showered the earth with rain...ahhhhh.

Matthew has had a few friends over since Sunday and I think they go home tomorrow, so the house has been noisy, I will enjoy some quiet tomorrow night - I HOPE!!!!

Tonight, it's dinner for all and hopefully some rest before work again in the morning:) Have I ever told you how much I Love my Job and how thankful I am to have it????

Being the wonderful SoCal gal that I am.......Tonight on TNF - 49er's vs Chargers - yikees!!! Chargers YES!!!

Thanks for reading my rambling!

Considering These Days With Joy,
Cindy

Christmas Day 12

I have considered myself a woman of faith. Our family has journeyed some tough roads in recent years and I believe we have weathered them well. Yet and still I must admit that these past few months have aged me and definitely challenged my faith.

I love God and trust that He will continue to provide all of our needs as He has all my life. However, as these difficult days have warn me down I find "myself" working hard to make ends meet and making plans for how "I" will provide for our family's needs.

Today I was sent to my knees again, this time not in petition but in repentance and thanksgiving, as God showed Himself Big Again and helped me to realize that He is still in control and I Must again let go of the 'need' to make things happen.

Someone *maybe an angel on earth* blessed us today with the money necessary to purchase hubby's life saving medication this month. As he and I stood looking at the person, tears streaming down our faces, our hearts humbled, we knew God's spirit was standing before us and we were once again in awe of, not only His Grace, but in a soul's willingness to be obedient to their creator!

We do not deserve what God has given to us today, yet none of us deserve the Eternal Life He has freely offered to us either. Do you know this God, this Jesus who loves you so much? If you don't and you would like to, please email me and I would love to talk with you and share the life which is just waiting to be held!

Today, although I did actually decorate our tree, it's not so much about the preparation for Christmas but about preparing our hearts for Christ!!!

Considering the Gift of Christ with Great Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Days 10 & 11

It is so easy to get behind when you are attempting to do something everyday.

Yesterday was a full day of work and then our church had their annual Ladies Christmas Party. What a blast we had and even though I took my camera with me...well, I forgot to take any pictures.

There was a wonderful spread of tummy fillings and desserts followed by a fun game of gift exchanges. Here is what I brought home...

I would have been happy with just the wrapped box but I sure will enjoy using the note pads as well. Of course, they are my favorite colors, black, white and red:)

Today was an early morning and off to riding lessons followed by a quick trip home and then to a 2 1/2 hour rehearsal for our church Christmas program next week. I still haven't taken any pictures of rehearsals.

If it was available to him, son #2 would ride all day everyday!!!

This afternoon I finally pulled all of our Christmas stuff out of their hiding places and actually put up the tree. It even has lights but no ornaments...hoping to get to that part tomorrow.

It's a little bittersweet this year because though hubby is home, he just lies on the couch and watches. He seems unable to help much at all and it makes me very sad. I keep putting a smile on my face but after nearly 30 years of doing all this together...just watching this process is breaking my heart.

I have a beautiful roast in the crock pot and if it is finished in time, I may run down to the park and watch one of my nephews play softball in the Championship Tournament. All the kiddos will be down there so it would be a nice break for me.

We will see what tomorrow holds but I know it will be another great day in the Lord.

Considering Christmas Preparations with Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Day 8 & 9

No matter how hard I work at it

I just can't get my heart to

come along this year !!!

Christmas Day 7

Well My Friends 14 hour days do not leave much time for Christmas preparations however I was able to squeeze in a rehearsal for our Church Christmas program:

Back to the Manger

Again, this will be my acting debut as well as my farewell performance

but I am having fun watching the kids practice, sing and dance.

Thanks to Pastor Mike and his assistance Michelle for all of their hard work

producing, choreographing and directing this awesome musical.

Not much else to say!

Tired!

Not feeling well!

Hungry!

However...

Considering Christmas Day 7 With Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Day 6

Have you ever had a silent prayer buried in the depths of your soul that you just couldn't let go of?

Were there times when you just felt God would Never say Yes?

I have been experiencing one of those prayers for 6 1/2 years.

It may not seem much to some but to me it was a desire of my momma's heart.

Today we visited this place: The Superior Court of Arizona

And the courtroom of Commissioner Kirby Kongable

And today I have the honor of announcing that our Little Miss K-Bug has a new last name!!!

You should have seen her face when we told her where we were going and what we were going to do. She has been asking for a Very long time and today both of our dreams came true.

Congratulations Miss K-Bug and Congratulations to Son #2 and his Sweet Bride as well as K-Bel who was sleeping in the carseat:)

Considering A New Name with Super Great Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Day 5

Tonight I am venturing away from the tangible ways I am attempting to bring the Christmas Spirit into my home and taking a look at the actual Spirit of Christmas.

As I sat listening to our youth Pastor deliver a message this morning in his series entitled "X-mas Files" I was moved by the simplicity and depth of all that Christmas holds.

During these days of December I have been focusing on the preparations of the Christmas season. Yet I wonder if I am fully prepared for Christ Himself!

Sharing from a personal story Pastor Nate was used by God to speak loudly to my Spirit. There was a time when Pastor Nate was in the right place at the right time to be used yet he was not fully prepared so he was passed by and I'm sure felt dejected. Eventually he came to a place of repentance and ultimately God's grace was poured out over him so that when the opportunity arose again he was not only in the right place at the right time but he was also Prepared.

Of course, that is a short synopsis of the story yet if we look at the parable of the 10 virgins in the first part of Matthew 25 we see a similar story; a story that speaks directly to not just being in the right place at the right time but being fully prepared.

Being fully prepared to be used in God's kingdom, for His glory, and for His purposes!

I wonder tonight if I am prepared! Prepared to say yes when an opportunity arises to be used in the life of a hurting soul, prepared to speak truth to a broken heart, prepared to feed, clothe and fulfill the needs of someone suffering a set back, prepared to offer hope to the lonely.

It has been an extremely difficult season in our home and I admit I've become a bit depressed and self absorbed through it all. There are days I just dream of having someone minister to me instead of me having to minister to my hubby and family, yet I don't think I could do life any other way. God has bolstered me up under the stresses of this season and has given me the confidence in knowing that He sees my heart, knows my thoughts, feeds my soul and aptly supplies my needs spiritually, physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Taking the necessary steps to 'get into the spirit of Christmas' is important to me this year but not nearly as important as understanding and living the Christmas Spirit. The Christmas Spirit is the Spirit of Giving, The Gift God Gave, The Gift We have Received, The Gift of Life!!! The Christmas Spirit I wish to maintain throughout my year and my life must be foremost in my heart.

How do we become fully prepared? Relationship!!! It's all about our daily walk with Jesus!! Are we spending time in His Word? Are we taking daily time to just listen to His still small voice? Are we worshiping our Creator? Are we in the midst of Relationship with Him? Do we have our armor on? Is there oil in our lamps?

Tonight I am thankful for the reminders of my need to be prepared!

Though I may still be struggling with the 'tangible' preparations, I am resting in the Lord knowing that my heart is linked with His and we will continue to build our relationship.

Considering The Christmas Spirit With Joy,
Cindy

Christmas Day 4

So Christmas Day 4 brought me an early morning after a late night. I forgot to take my camera with me today but I will share some photos from last night.

This morning was another trip to the barn for son #2's lesson (oh my it is cold so very early in the morning). Lesson completed we ventured home where son #2 was able to rest but I headed straight for the church and rehearsal for our Annual Christmas Program. I will be having my acting debut next week but it will also probably be my farewell performance. I don't think this acting/memorizing lines is meant for this lady.

Sorry, no pictures of rehearsal!

Son #2 and I went out to do a small bit of shopping; he has to take a gift tomorrow for his 'barn' Christmas party!! I know he will have a wonderful time; he loves his barn friends so much!

As for the rest of day 4 ~ well ~ I am not feeling well so I am going to take a short nap and then cook some tomato soup and make grilled cheese sandwiches for dinner. Then off to bed early because tomorrow is another busy day.

Here are just a few shots from last night's festivities.

Entrance to our dining room

Employer, Friend, Sister in the Lord, Encourager to my family

A few of our 'cute' staff

MJ, me, and T ~ who has been a huge supporter of the practice

So happy son #1 and his bride could join us since she works for us

And YES...Mark actually let us have a little fun...

I must admit we wore him out but it was great to have him there and participating in the activities of the night!

I'll see you all again tomorrow for Day 5 of my preparation and 'getting' into the Spirit of Christmas.

Considering Christmas Day 4 with Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Day 3

So I am checking in with my Christmas Day 3 post a little early because I need to get ready for our office Christmas Party tonight. We are going to a swanky resort in Paradise Valley for a fabulous dinner and lots of fun.

I did do a small bit of shopping today on my way home from work. Needed to pick up a couple gifts for the exchange game that we will play tonight.

The only photo I have for you today is below:

Oh Yes!!! Oreo's and I go Way back. I am always excited when they release their holiday goodies. And of course, hubby Loves Ghirardelli peppermint bark so I just had to pick some of that up for him.

I promise I will take lots of pictures tonight at our party and will post some tomorrow.

As for getting into the Christmas Spirit, well, I suppose you could say that I am leaving my heart open for the Lord to work and enjoying sharing little moments with you.

Considering Christmas Day 3 with Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Day 2

Oh how God is such a wonderful giver of Joy...

My sister came by early this morning (8:30ish) to drop off a 'gift' for hubby and I.

We have always loved the movie "A Christmas Story" and talk about parts of it all through the year. We used to have what we called a 'leg' lamp, love the pink jammies, the tongue stuck on the pole (since we lived in the cold of the Eastern Slopes of the High Sierras) I think that happened to hubby and maybe one of our boys, not quite sure, we call it the 'you'll shoot your eye out' movie and just look forward to watching it at least once during every Christmas season.

Well, my sweet sis brought by the cutest bag with a darling ornament inside.

She and her hubby know us well and knew it would bring a smile to our faces and joy in our hearts. Isn't he just the cutest???? Thank you P&M - We love you and Happy 34th anniversary yesterday:)

Later in the day I started putting together a box that will travel to Uganda. We have sponsored a sweet little boy for several years through World Vision and I love being able to send little gifts every now and then. In the pic below you can see a few of the items I am sending, I packed most of the box today and just picked up a few more items this afternoon. I will be so happy when that little box gets on it's way to brighten the life of our little Mark!!

Do you remember Chiclet's? I loved them, especially those little tiny minis...yummy! It is such an honor for us to be able to support this little guy. I only pray that these small items will brighten his day but mostly we pray that he and his family come to know Jesus in real and personal ways, and we meet in heaven some day.

And then of course, being Thursday, I was blessed with spending some of my afternoon with this precious little K-bel Angel...........

Such a blessed day, filled with moments of joy. Thankful to our God who loves so much!

Considering Christmas Day 2 with Great Joy,

Cindy

Christmas Day 1

It has been a difficult year for me to become excited about the Holiday season which seems to have snuck up on me.

I absolutely LOVE Everything about Christmas but am having a hard time getting in the swing of things.... SO...................

I have decided to post a picture or two each day of December which has something to do with the Christmas season.

Today, when I got home from work I went out to the garage and took these...

Yes, my Christmas decorations are still neatly packed away into their various cabinets...and even more in the attic.

I have not been so bold as to climb up there yet but have a mind to do so this weekend.

I am hoping that by making a commitment to take pictures daily I will also find myself getting 'into' the Spirit of the most Wonderful Holiday of the Year!!!

Won't you join me as we venture toward the Celebration of the Birth of our Precious Lord and Savior :)

Considering Christmas with the Greatest of Joy,

Cindy