Wind blown

My sweet little Justin had so much fun with his window down this afternoon. It's usually too hot, too cold, the wind would mess my hair up...really I'm just scared they would fall out, so I never let them put their windows down. Once we got to our road they begged because it was so nice outside-- and reluctantly, I agreed. I'm so glad I did! Look at the smile on this boys face. Fear almost made me miss this...

I wonder what else in my life I'm letting fear hold me back from. I "opened the window" a couple of weeks ago and signed up for the prison ministry and I go next week. Scared but looking forward to the "smiles"!!

What is fear holding you back from??

Dog pile

That's a lot off Griffin boys right there!! I'm so lucky. :)

I wonder what God has in store for those three little monkeys on top?

Jesus is the HERO of my story!

As I was doing a Beth Moore bible study this morning, God led me off on a study of my own.  I had no idea what it was going to be about or why it was happening, but I just went with it! I'm not exactly sure how I got from the book of Daniel to the book of Isaiah, but I took great comfort in the forty third chapter.  One verse that really stuck out was this,

I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, 

for my own sake, and remembers you sin no more."  

 Isaiah 43:25

Isn't is great God loves us that much?? He doesn't even remember our past sins!! More on this in a moment.

In my Beth Moore study she talked about what God's desire for my life is.  What is God's desire for us...John 15:8,16 says, (v8) "to be my disciples." (v.16) "You did not chose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go out and bear fruit..."  It's humbling knowing GOD CHOSE ME! He gave me specific gifts to do his work.  One is definite-- he gave me a singing voice.  I know He can give  more than one gift, and I know there's more to me than just singing...so what is it?? I've been praying for several weeks now trying to figure out what it is, and what am I supposed to do with it. After reading these verses in John I knew God wanted to share something with me.  I started digging deep and he revealed to me I have the gift of showing mercy!! It has always come so easy to me...growing up I often thought maybe I was too soft; after all most people around me where not so willing to show mercy. 

• Mercy-- compassionate or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, an enemy, or other person in one's power; compassion, pity, or benevolence; Have mercy on the poor sinner.

I can't share personal stories with out permission of the other party, but one thing I would like to share (what I think compassion should look like) is Osama Bin Laden.  On 9-11 there people in the Middle East standing in the streets singing and dancing over lives lost.  What's equally heartbreaking to me, though, is the night I heard Osama Bin Laden was dead the things I heard on TV and was reading on facebook.  I was glad to hear they got him (dead or alive) because it needed to be done.   War is ugly and even God says it's necessary at times.  But here is a man who didn't know God and had just lost his life.  I was cheerless... We are to mourn as God does, for his people, even the lost.

Now back to our God who doesn't remember our sins.  If you ask for forgiveness you not only receive it, but he remembers it no more!  It comes easy for me forgive and forget. Yes, even forget.  I was really put to the test a couple of years ago.  Even though it took a long time (longer for me than usual) I was able to forgive and ask for forgiveness.  I really have to stop and think about the whole situation to remember details, but I choose not to.  Some say that's foolish and I could get burned again.  I say we are to be just like Jesus and we are to forgive as many times as it takes.  If I harbor resentment from the past it would make it hard to forgive in the future.  Also, I think if we are to be like Jesus- we should forget just as God does.  He tells us in Isaiah 43:18 "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past."

I don't write this to toot my own horn or to brag, but to encourage you. Forgiveness sometimes is a slow process....it doesn't have to be- it's a chose.  Don't let Satan have a stronghold on your life by holding on to bitterness. If you want mercy you have to show it.  I leave you with this last verse:

"This is how my heavenly Fater will treat each of you

unless you forgive your brother from your heart."

Matthew 18:35 

Thriving on parched land

Those that live in Texas know, but we have been months with no rain...day after day with over 100 degree temperatures. A few days ago this very tolerant moss rose plant was wilted and dying; It thrives in sunny hot locations where the soil is poor. Even though mine was wilting, it was still green but no flowers. Then, finally Saturday night, it poured down on this thirsty land! The next morning I could barely tell it had rained. Here it is a few days later and it's producing lots of bold color!

I wonder, how many of us are parched and drying up? Or growing, but not producing anything beautiful.  It's only when you're reading and studying God's word daily that you are going to flourish! Over the last couple of years, I've learned that it all begins with prayer.  If I'm studying and not praying it doesn't quite work out for me.  I still end up feeling lost and confused-- very much like this moss grass before the rain.  I would catch myself wondering why my life wasn't going according to plan.  HA! Who's plan?? Well, mine of course. 

One thing that I've come to realize (I've heard all my life, but it's finally it home) is God has a kingdom agenda!  And I'm usually way off the path He has planned out for me. When I'm doing both is when He grants me wisdom and understanding;  That's when I'm able to have boldness and color!

We live in a broken world-- our lands are parched. Satan wants to hold us in captivity-- often times you don't even know it's Satan.  Our culture tells us "Yes, Yes, Yes! Because you deserve it! Use credit and pay it back later!" If you're not building up your faith by praying and studying, you will stay in bondage. Don't become brainwashed by the world and culture!  But, be intentional and very deliberate!!  Practice a little restraint with me this week. I'm not drinking Dr. Pepper, or over eating, or buying unnecessary things. I'm going to watch less TV.  I AM going to show restraint and focus more on God because of it! And let me tell ya, not having Dr. Pepper (just because I can) has been the biggest challenge for me!

As I close out this blog, I'm going to pray for you! That (for even just one of my readers) these words written will spark a flame in your soul. That you'll be intentional in spending one-on-one time with the Lord. That as you learn, God will reveal his plan for your life! That he will put a blaze of passion on your heart and you'll know exactly what to do!!

Sweet brother time...

AAAAAAAAAAAAAGGHH!!!

That's all I have to say about that...

A renewed mind

One of my favorite apps on my phone is one called Pandora...most of you probably already know what it is. For those that don't, it's free radio. I love it because you pick what you want; songs, artists, composers. I keep it on praise and worship station- you give a thumbs up for the songs or the artist you like and it will play it more ofter.

Anyhow, a song that I've not heard in a really long time came on and I was convicted and cried all the way home this morning after dropping the boys off. God has such perfect timing, would you agree? Had I heard it before dropping them off (1) it may not have hit me the same way, or (2) I would have been a mess while dropping them off and their teachers would have looked at me like I was a crazy person...

Growing up in a Church of Christ I often times I don't recognize a song by the music. But as soon as I heard the words "There's a stirring deep within me" it hit me like a freight train. Here I was driving and the Lord indeed started a stirring deep down within! I haven't been very faithful-- I've neglected to use my gifts for His Service. I'm thankful for his grace and mercy!

We all have a gift(s) given to us, even life itself (Isaiah 42:5). I can't give money [yet!], but I can give of my time-- to volunteer, give unselfishly my time to my boys and my husband. Even as I sit here trying to pound out this blog, little Joel comes to ask for pretzels and my first response to him was, "In a second." When it should have been to get up with a grateful heart and get him some pretzels. Which I just did by the way...thank you Lord, again, for teaching me and being patient with me. Doing our everyday job with integrity and respect for others can also be a gift. It takes a lot to give and act as Jesus did on a daily basis!

I want to be ready when my time comes-- to see Him face to face! I don't want to have idle thoughts. I want to always hear that voice calling me!!

Is He calling you? Is it to show someone else grace today? Or, to serve? Teach? Encourage? Contributing to the needs of others? Leadership? Showing mercy? Romans 12:5-8 talks about each of these gifts!

I leave you with the lyrics to the song that touched my heart and inspired this blog:

There's a stirring deep within me;
Could it be my time has come?
When I'll see my gracious Savior
Face to face when all is done.

Is that his voice I am hearing?
"Come away my precious one."
Is he calling me?
Is he calling me?

I will rise up, rise up
And bow down, and lay my crown
At his wounded feet!

Blue eyed beauty!

So, this handsome little fellow...let me tell you a little story about him!

First, let me set the scene for you. This morning the boys and I went to Target for two wedding gifts, a birthday, and a baby gift. As we were walking through the parking lot, as always, we link hands to make a train. Justin wanted to be the engine, so he's up front. As we approach to cross the road right in front of the store, here comes a black SUV; Justin starts to dash out in front of them. I of course immediately yell at him to FREEZE! As soon as we were safely across the road I ask, "Justin, what on earth were you thinking-- running out like that in front of a car?" He sweetly replies, "I was going to stop them with my blue eyes and my freckles." I had to laugh and kiss this sweet little face. Then, scold him to never ever try that again!

Let's see, does he stop you in your tracks?!?

Getting creative

The boys got grounded from their costumes before we left on vacation because they weren't picking them up and putting them away. With this heat, I'm not allowing them to play outside either. They are sick of T.V. and video games. My throat hurts from all the reading (choir practice last night was a challenge). "So, what can we do?" they ask. So, when Daddy got home last night Justin asked him to draw on a costume; one that I won't have to pick up later...! :) You can see Joel getting his there in the background.

One good thing about the heat (if you're looking for a positive) is that I've had lots of time to invest in them-- speaking truth into their little hearts. It's been a time of teaching them brotherly love. And! to turn off lights behind them! ;)

Stay cool people!

A heavy heart

As I lay here in bed writing this, I am heavy laden.

A friend from church died (leaving behind a husband of 20 years and three teenagers) and I will attend her funeral here in a few short hours. Reading her last posts on facebook she gave God all the glory...right up until the very end; Praying for a miracle knowing that God could heal her, but also knew He could call her home at any time. The discernment and wisdom flowing from her mouth (that I didn't quite appreciate at the time) astounds me now looking back! I know she is at the right hand of our Heavenly Father, and has gained it all, but I am so sad for Brent, Jenna, Shawn, and Brennan. What a testimony of faith Jennifer was to so many!

Oh my- how we take life for granted. We don't give back to God what he deserves. We don't praise him like we should, or give him the credit owed. Instead we sit [complacent] in our homes...churches even. We perform our daily tasks of praying, serving in a ministry, tithing, even reading the bible; like it's a to-do list just to be checked off. Is that enough? I say not! He needs more from us than that--he wants us everyday! In Mark it says I can't receive Jesus unless I put others (even the least of the least) before me.

Lord, help me to die to myself so I can serve others as Jesus did! To be able to love/forgive those that have wronged me- as I am sure I need their forgiveness, too.

Matthew 6:19-21 says, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, here moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Totally smitten!

I just had to capture this little darling!

Johnny has really taken to soldiers and learning about war ever since we went to honor the soldier that died a couple of weeks ago. Kyle has talked to him a lot about what it takes to be a soldier and what freedom is-- the cost that it means, but the glory it brings to God, self, family, our country, etc... We read and watch everything we can get our hands on. I pray that God will use this [now little] boy in a mighty way! That he will be a missionary starting now even at the young age of 8!

Joseph (the son of my childhood best friend, also my moms godson) has been with us all week- he has played war with my boys everyday, all day! We will be sad to see him go home!! He is such a joy!

Following in daddy's footsteps

I'm washing the truck and I look over to see what the little boys are doing, this is what I found! I asked Justin what's wrong with his truck just to learn that the oil was bad and needed changing!
I don't think I can say it enough how much I love being a momma to little boys!!!

Justin and his critters

Meet Tweety the Frog, because he croaks really load. Justin's newest addition (for the day) to the Griffin clan!

I absolutely adore this boy!!

I have BOYS!!

I open my freezer and what do I see, frozen toys. It started with Han Solo-- which is hilarious to me. Never would I have thought about freezing him. I love being a mother to little boys!

We've won the lottery

I know Justin is only five years old, but he was a little less than good (hot and sleepy) while we were standing on the roadside watching a soldier (who died fighting for our freedom) being escorted home. As I stood there watching them pass by with tear filled eyes I was reminded of how we American's are all entitled toddlers. We [undeserving] were born here and have won the lottery and take it for granted.

I felt proud to be standing there-- that's all I could do for his family to show them our support. Johnny learned an important lesson today; one that I think will sick with him the rest of his life!

I really wanted to post the video, but it's not allowing me. Guess I'll try posting it to facebook...

God Bless America!

Backfired!

Because Justin wouldn't help his brothers clean up his punishment was to sweep the kitchen and computer room. Uh yeah, it backfired BIG time! Kyle and I were walking back into the living room when we here Justin's little giggles as he says, "Best. Day. Ever!" Then giggles again.

I should have known. He loves to help! Oh well, good to know...! I think this boy needs a little personality, what do you think? :)

Like-minded

I am reading Philippians and in verse 2 it says to imitate the humility of Christ.

Philippians 2:8 says, "...he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death---even death on a cross! 

I would like to think I could die for Christ. I mean, if someone where holding a gun up to my head and said they would kill me if I were a Christian, then asked me if I was, how would I answer. Used to, I thought I would just say no (I mean, there is common sense, right?) God would understand. The more I've studied and grown I have come to realize, boy was I wrong; We are never supposed to deny Him. Never!! Even if death is the cost. I would hope I have the courage to "become confident in the Lord...and proclaim the gospel without fear." Until faced with it, I couldn't say for sure. 

Philippians 2:12-13 "Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed---not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence---continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose."

I do know that I need [daily] to pray and ask God to help me put on the mind of Christ, so that when I'm faced with hard and fast decisions I can act accordingly. It's not natural, we are natural born sinners, after all. God has a plan for me while on this earth...and the bible says, "to die is gain!" 

What would you do? 

My reality

At the start of each day, I pray for the Lord to teach me something new; to help me be creative in teaching my boys. I want them to have a love for their Creator and to be different!!

As I was praying this morning the Lord spoke to me heart, "Why do you ask for these things and then not seek after them? Why haven't you come to me every morning for your quiet time? How can I teach you when you're not listening? Hello!! Wake up call.

Truth is, I haven't been doing my part this past week and I can see a huge difference in my attitude. I am edgy. I bark at the boys over stupid stuff. I don't stop and train their little hearts as I should.

It's not only important to pray daily, but read my bible and LISTEN! Duh! No wonder things have been off kilter. It's so simple and I have been in such a funk; I have to be diligent, not only in prayer, but in studying my bible EVERY DAY!

This afternoon I put the boys in a bubble bath with a cup of tea, turned the lights off, lite candles, and read our Character Bible. What a blessing to have them eager and asking questions. As I type this now, I hear Johnny telling his brothers they are his servants (armor-bearer is what the story called them) and they are going to rescue King Saul the disobedient king.

Now, come on morning...!

It's official- Johnny's 8!

We took Johnny to Chuck E. Cheese for his birthday. He brought along his friend, Caiden. Also, cousin Kason came to join the fun!

As you can see from the smiles on their faces- they had a blast.

Thank you Papa and Grammer, Mama Jean, Nana and Pop, Uncle Vernon, Papa and Pammy, and Aunt Kirsten and Kason for making Johnny's 8th birthday a memorable one!

Oh my! How time flies...

March 24, 2003 was one of the happiest days of my life! My beautiful 7lbs 5oz blue eyed beauty finally arrived at 3:21 PM. He was wide eyed and bushy tailed then (looking just like his daddy), and not much has changed today!

Fast forward eight years! Here is our Johnny Griff! Sweet, stubborn, gentle hearted, daddy's boy, 100% boy, momma's boy (when he wants to snuggle), loves the out doors, but also loves video games, people-pleaser and a leader!


Last year Johnny accepted Jesus into his heart! We were driving home from school one day and he was real quiet...unlike my Johnny Griff! Then, a few minutes later he said he needed to pray. Me, thinking "Oh no! What has he done" said, "OK Johnny Griff, what about?" That's when he began to tell me about how Jesus popped in his heart the night before while singing a song during Kingdom Kids. Even though, he has not been baptized yet, I know this little boy loves the Lord, and is a Mighty Warrior already!

I can't wait to see all the ways God uses this little blessing that calls me Mom!

Crown of Beauty

I went to an Evangelism Women's Conference yesterday. It was a last minute decision and I am so glad I went. The Lord gave me a few pearls of wisdom that I want to share. There were several, but today I just want to share this one.

One of the speakers, Angela Thomas, asked the question, "Are you a good Jesus girl? or a bad Jesus girl?" My first reaction was like, "Well duh! God of course." But, the longer she talked the more Jesus whispered in my ear. I was slapped in the face-- again! I was so sure of myself, yet I know there is always room for improvement. I was disappointed in myself for so quickly assuming I was good. I'm not and only by God's grace am I made pure.

Anyhow- she goes on to talk about Isaiah 61, and when I give God my ashes- He will return to me a crown of beauty! You'll have to read the passage to understand the whole meaning of the "ashes" and "crow of beauty." I will give you my interpretation, but WOW!, what a powerful phrase!

I was reminded to give God the bad things I've done/do in my life. Jesus already paid for my sins. All I have to do is take my ashes to the cross; God is there to take my brokenness and redeem me!! AND- replace it with a crown of beauty! Then, she goes on to talk about bitterness. She asked if I was bitter about what I had to trade in. If there is one thing I've learned over the past year or two is that there is no room for bitterness. I can not serve God and try to take comfort in my bitterness. It's more like having a pity party..! Bitterness is a jail. Have you ever found peace in being bitter at something or someone? The only way I have found true peace is through Jesus Christ. Put on the mind of Christ; Choose victory over what ever it is you struggle with. Pray for God to take that from you and use it for His glory!

Proud

Johnny finally lost a top tooth and he's so excited!

He now knows there is no tooth fairy and he hugged me (with this big 'ol cute smile) and said, "Thank you!" When I asked him for what, he replied, "For my money in advance."

A piece of my MomHeart

I am forever changed. Isn't it great that we have a merciful, grace giving, loving, Heavenly Father?
This weekend I attended a MomHeat conference with a group of ladies from church. Sally Clarkson, author of several books (Mission Of Motherhood is a must), came to teach us, encourage us, and share in our passion on biblical motherhood. Oh my, what a treat she was! I loved the book and had no idea how much more this conference would bring. I had no expectations other than leaving feeling refreshed--I was after all kidless... No spills to clean up, toys to put away, breakfast lunch or dinners to cook, beds and laundry to be done, no puppy pee to be wiped, you get my drift..?
Anyhow, from the early Friday morning tea when Sally first spoke to a very small group of us, I knew this was going to be different than ANYTHING I had ever experienced!! Boy was I right! You know that small voice, the one that talks to you when something is wrong, or when you're trying to make a decision- the one people call their conscious? Well I call it the Holy Spirit; guiding me down the right path. And this weekend He was right in my face talking so loud it almost hurt my "ears" and he was saying, "Trisha, wake up! You might be on the right path, but there's so much more! Trust in me, follow me, I AM here to guide you and provide for you!" I fell in love with my kids in a whole new way this weekend, and I can't really explain it any better than just that. I already love so deeply and didn't realize I could love them that much more. Wow! I can't imagine how much more the lord must love them! But, it does excite me!!

Remember the Sabbath?

To my mom and dad- No, not our old cat! Haha.

I've had this book and been reading it on and off for a while now. Yesterday I picked it up and started over, determined to finish this time. It's about finding rest, renewal, and delight in our busy lives; it's titled "Sabbath by Wayne Muller".

One thing that really jumped out at me is when he talked about our modern life, and how it's designed to seduce us; every where you go, look, on tv., it's always: Buy me. Do me. Watch me. Try me. Drink me.

Then, this morning in Sunday School we talked about Loyal Love. What a God of perfect timing we have! It really made me think about the things in my daily life that distract me from God. I am reminded of Jesus waking up early to go out by himself and pray. What makes me think I can be any different..? Muller talked about the Muslims and how they're called to prayer five times a day- all work ceases... No wonder they are so loyal.

I am in constant 'prayer' every day, but I don't always stop to meditate (a formulaic prayer) and give Him my undivided attention. Jesus was sinless, and still He prayed! If he had to pray- how much more should I pray?

Lots to be in prayer about this week. Besides the little souls I'm trying nurture- so they'll have a love and passion for God, there's this FPU Class, and a Mothers Conference I'm going to Friday and Saturday. I'm asking for prayers (especially from you grandparents), for God to show me what my/family's life should look like. I know He has mighty plans for us- I'm excited to he what they are!

I challenge you, my sweet family and friends, to invoke the sabbath in your life daily. Let God seep in to every aspect of your life! Watch the blessings and wisdom that come from being still and listening to that small voice!

Blessings on your week..!

Country living

This big horse of a dog has enjoyed coming in to sleep at night since it's been freezing. Tonight, though, I went to let her in and she had this rabbit in her mouth. Ewwwwh! Needless to say- she's sleeping outside with her kill.

Motherhood

Are you totally wrapped around anyones finger?!?
Let me just tell you about my little Joely-bowly! This little cutie pie asked me, "When are you going to grow little so you can be my princess?"

Filled my soul

Don't know the title to the song that came over me when I saw this, but it goes:

Heaven came down and glory filled my soul,
When at the cross the Savior made me whole.
My sins were washed away,
And my night was turned to day.
Heaven came down and glory filled my soul.

Thank you God for saving a sinner like me! And- for the reminder...
We are so undeserving, but he loves us anyway. How lucky we are- and take it for granted.

*WARNING* *WARNING*

You must be 18 years or older. This blog contains material.... Just kidding.

Don't come near the Griffin household unless you don't mind going home with parvo; I guess it really won't matter if you don't have a puppy or don't plan on having one in the next six months.
If that wasn't enough- the little boys brought home lice...ugh! Yep, that's right, those nasty, annoying, yucky, disgusting, awful, obnoxious...does that about cover it?? (Lice that is, not my boys!) I won't go in to detail on how time consuming this little complication has been; Just LOTS and LOTS of washing.
Oh but wait, there's more...! Last but not least, you could possibly, probably go home with the Hershey squirts. The boys have been passing that [pleasant] little bug around. The two little one's seem to be over it, but Kyle was home sick today, along with Johnny.
There's probably more but my brain is too tired. It's probably some kind of brain bug. Ha ha ha....

Introducing MEGATRON!

I will get to this adorable little guy in a minute, but first...

Whew, where to begin?! It's been crazy around the Griffin household. As most of you know we rescued eight little puppies one Friday night around the beginning of this month. And no, Megatron was not one of them. I'll get to him in a sec... Anyhow, we found all the puppies a home with the exception of one, which my mom took in and was going to help find him one! We kept them penned up out back by the barn in a dog run and they did not come in or around the house.

I don't remember the timeline exactly, but I know on Monday my mom called to tell me her puppy had died and Uncle Vernon's wasn't doing well. After finding out the symptoms we knew it was the [dreaded] parvo. That night (I think it was) she called back to say Uncle Vern's little girl didn't make it. She still had one left, Cuddles, the one she was going to find a home for but was now hers.... Within a few hours he was also showing signs of Parvo. She researched and contacted people that might be able to help and give her guidance. She fought hard for three or four days, but he didn't make it either.

Now, back to Megatron! We absolutely adore him. My brother called January 15th and told me they were selling Boston Terrier puppies at in his Walmart parking lot. I had him send me pictures, and Kyle and I both knew he was ours as soon as we laid eyes on him! That night Kyle has a hockey game to go to, so the boys and I loaded up and off to Lin's house we drove! The next day Kyle and I were talking about how weird it was because we agreed we had never had a dog that was family quite like this; Megatron just belonged! He's fun, spunky- to say the least, sweet, loves to cuddle- watch out, though, he might attack your toes at any given second...


I had no idea how contagious parvo is. I knew it was highly contagious, but I had no idea how easy it was to spread. I figured if I kept Megatron away from the dog run, he'd be OK...Wrong! The vet started telling me of how you can bring it in with your shoes, it's on your clothes if you've held one, it stays in the yard for up to SIX MONTHS! What?!? The vet told me to bleach, bleach, bleach. So, Kyle bleached the yard (twice- two weekends in a row) while I bleached floors, threw away rugs, washed clothes...you name it we were doing it trying to make sure Megatron didn't come in contact. Little did we know it was too late. :( Ten days after bringing him home, he started throwing up. I haven't subbed in over a month and of course that day would be the day I was scheduled.. Ugh! As soon as I got home I swooped him and the boys up and off to the vet we took him. Throwing up was the only sign he exhibited, but I knew..! The vet didn't think he had it, but I made him run the test anyway. Sure enough, he had it.

This is at the vet's office; the boys had their ears to the wall listening to see if they could hear if Megatron was infected.


So, the past four days I've been giving him two medications, injections in the neck of sodium chloride, making sure he eats small meals all day long, kept him drinking water. If you didn't know it you wouldn't think he was sick! He's just as spunky today as the day we brought him home! However, he is not out of the woods just yet so stay tuned..!

Here is Mama Jean helping me as I injected the fluid in his neck!

We were so excited to have a day of snow! Two years in a row!! OK OK...This post is already so long, so I'm not going to talk about these pictures except to tell you what's going on in them.

Kyle and Johnny feeding the poor, cold, starving goats! Because those that know me, know I am NOT getting out in the cold if I can help it! ha ha!

Before... After...


Kyle and Johnny jumping. They say men grow up at the age of 40, is that right? Well Kyle, you have a few years left...


Joel making a snowman. And- last but not least, Papa Rick making a snowman with the boys. That is until Justin said he was tired of making snowmans, wasn't comfy in the snow anymore, and he was snow sick! Ha! I love that boy. He's too funny!

I know I said that was it, but I have to share with you guys; I'm excited to tell you I'm finally starting a Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University Class at our church! It's something God put on my heart months ago and I've been praying for it to happen in his timing. Anyhow- I will [hopefully] blog more on this soon! It's an amazing story (to me anyway) about its coming about! Lots of other things going on in my life and in my heart...I just haven't had much time to blog about them. So, ask me if next time you see me if you're interested!

Have a happy week end, my sweet readers!!

The man of my dreams..!

Thirty four years ago a lady laying in a hospital bed had a son! Rick and Debbie cared for him, loved him, and shaped him into an extraordinary man! And I am proud to call him mine today!

Kyle you're my favorite!

You're the best husband a girl could ask for, a best friend,and a wonderful daddy!

Happy Birthday, my sweet husband!

Sweetness

Driving home this afternoon I hear Johnny's sweet voice asking his brothers if they'd like him to read to them. I couldn't believe my ears. If asked he will usually read to them, but on his own..! I had to capture this picture perfect moment of my sweet little critters.