Team Suel

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T14:16:00.003-06:00

May the true Joy of Christmas be full in your hearts!

2011-12-25T14:06:00.004-06:00

Jaden got a handmade journal from the J-girls

Showing off make up from Honey

Yes! DP!

Just a few pics for the grand parents ;)

Chris and I spent the day under the weather and on the couch but it didn't stop the celebrating! We read our final reading of Jotham's Journey (I cannot get the computer to let me underline the title!) and The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. I was reminded again of the true wonder of what God did. He sent His Perfect Son from the glories of Heaven to us. Unto us a child is born, a Son is given. I was blown away (again) that He loves me- in my good and bad moments, my ups and my downs. He knew the times I would be faithful and the times I would be completely rotten and He still came. Praise God for Emmanuel- God with us!

Naomi's Village

2011-12-17T07:44:00.006-06:00

Today we received such a blessing! Our family, the J-girls, and some people from a local church loaded up in 2 vans and made our way to Naomi's Village to meet and visit with some special kids. Naomi's Village is a children's home with a vision to love and invest in Kenyan children with the hope that they will not only survive, but grab hold of the truth that they are valued by God and that He has a plan for each person.

Emily enjoys "Don't break the ice" with some expert players.

Avery especially enjoyed holding the babies!

Ester and Emma loving on the little ones.

Jaden holding a little guy who was so full of energy! He had us really laughing!

Emma, Gavin, and Avery in the dining hall between games. The pictures all around the wall are the attributes of God. They are visual reminders of the things the staff are teaching the children about God.

It was raining so we spent most of our time indoors. We played games, worked puzzles, held babies, visited with the workers about how we can pray and help, and just hung out with some special kids.

No pics of Z-man. He was way too busy playing in the play room with the little kids. He did not want to leave and is READY to go back!

One of the main reasons we visited today was because the founders want the children to have strong Kenyan role models. Our hope is that God will place orphans on the hearts of some of the students in Nairobi and that we can all visit regularly.

All of the staff at Naomi's Village were great. They have a special but tough job! Especially on my heart today is Jane, the worker in the baby room. She has a big job with 3 little babies! If you think of her, would you pray too?

If you want to know more about the special ministry of Naomi's Village I encourage you to click here!

making merry

2011-12-05T04:15:00.003-06:00

Some friends joined us in decorating sugar cookies and watching a Christmas movie.
Jaden is holding the last of the puppies. She will go to the girls in the picture when they finish language school soon! (the puppy, not JJ)

Emma, Avery, and Zephan went down to Ester and Emily's apartment and became living Christmas trees

Fall Birthdays!

2011-12-05T03:45:00.004-06:00

To celebrate Emma and Zephan's week apart birthdays we went to the water park!

September: ZZ celebrates turning 5!

Emma's 7th Birthday- October

an answer to the dreaded question

2011-11-26T15:19:00.004-06:00

We are trying something new (for us) this year. Every day I hear, "how many days until Christmas?" UGH! So, I made a green and red paper chain. We will rip one link off every day giving a visual of how many days until Christmas. On each link I put either a verse, a Christmas greeting in a different language, or a day of Christmas from the 12 days of Christmas. On the back there are things like: baking something with Mom to give to someone else or keep, doing something special for someone in the family without them knowing, making a craft, picking a Christmas movie to watch together, etc. I am using the ADVENTure book by Lisa Welchel and Christmas Around the World by Mary D. Lankford for the baking and craft ideas.

My desire is that this will not only keep me from hearing the dreaded question 145 times a day but also to refocus my crew. I hope that they can enjoy serving and encouraging others and focus on the Reason we celebrate...JESUS!

Full

2011-11-26T14:21:00.007-06:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

After taking a winding road up through the tea fields we reached our destination for the day. We walked into the house and a fire was blazing in the fireplace. I felt giddy. After a few moments of soaking up the pleasure of the fire I looked out the windows lining the back wall and my eyes feasted on some of the most beautiful scenery. We were in a farm house in the middle of a flower/ tea farm. There were cows grazing, green, rolling hills, towering trees, gorgeous flowers, and a clear, blue sky as a back drop. I wanted to STAY forever.

We were gathered with some new and some not quite so new friends to celebrate Thanksgiving. I felt full, and not because of the incredible foods we ate, but because this place was a gift to my soul! God does things like that. He is so creative, so majestic, and He shows us this through things like HIS creation. Not only is He creative and majestic, He is intimately concerned with us, His precious creation. He knows how much I love a fireplace. This was no ordinary fireplace. It had a beautiful, deeply colored wood mantle, and the fireplace itself was large. I am telling you, every time I passed that wonderful sight I wanted to cry. He knows me and what gives my heart pleasure. Between the view, the fire, the food, and the fellowship it was a full day. The hours passed but it really felt like time stood still.

All week we had been focusing on the treasures of God's provision, His word, Salvation, our health and freedom, and His protection using a Thanksgiving resource we got years ago. It helped us focus on why we celebrate historically as well as spiritually.

We have so much to be thankful for. We live in a place where we see poverty on a daily basis. Chris has been visiting people who have little to no food, are sick and/or have lost family members because of the famine in the horn of Africa. Chris is feeling so much better after a year of really struggling physically. I could go on and on. God is good and not just because we are where we are physically and emotionally but also because He was there when we were struggling physically and emotionally this year. He was faithful then and He is faithful now.

As I enjoyed our time in the hills on Thanksgiving, being fully there and enjoying every moment, I was reminded to be fully where I am wherever I am. This is the moment, I am not guaranteed another. Am I living fully here and now? Am I walking closely with my heavenly Father, knowing Him, enjoying Him, obeying His voice today? This is my prayer!

"Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! "
Psalm 95:1

p.s. Sorry...I forgot my camera that day. Oh- I didn't even mention the coffee...wow.

update

2011-08-15T16:15:00.000-05:00

Chris is doing better physically. The
doctor has cleared him medically but has
advised (and our medical coordinators
agree) that he should not live far from
good medical care. So...we have been
reassigned.
During our stay in Nairobi we felt
God’s presence keenly. It was a hard time
in many ways. We kept sensing God
telling us to just wait on Him, draw near to
Him, and trust Him. We had no idea what
was going to happen and we were
learning to be ok with that. We learned
that we are called to HIM, no matter
where we are. He wants our whole heart,
soul, mind, and strength- everything.
We also became aware that it was a
very real possibility we were not going to
be able to return to the D*go team. We
had to get our hearts in a place where we
had no will of our own. We had complete
peace when the doctor made his
recommendation. We were sad, for sure,
but we knew that God does not make
mistakes and felt He was in control of this
shift.
After praying and speaking with our
leadership we felt like God was leading us
to a position in student ministry in Nairobi.
The more we thought and prayed, the
more excited we became. Students are in
such a unique place in their lives. They
are deciding where they are going with
their lives and they go out to different
places after graduation. Our hearts’
desire is to see them grow deep with the
Lord and to take His amazing love and
salvation to their people (and beyond).
We also see an opportunity to stay
connected to the people God has already
given us a burden for...the D*go. Our
prayer is that we will be able to take
national students to work among the
D*go- like “summer mission trips”.
We have made the move to Nairobi
and are settling in. We are sorry we
could not let you know sooner, but it has
just become official. We truly cannot
express our gratitude for your
encouragement and prayers! Your
faithfulness is a blessing and a powerful
tool God uses to accomplish His purposes.
We have seen it first hand!

2011-04-08T15:54:00.003-05:00

”If you wish to make an impact for one year, plant corn; if you wish to make an impact for a generation, plant a tree; if you wish to make an impact for eternity, educate a child.” anon

Tarrying by the Stuff (from 1 Samuel 30:24) by Lois Wilder Cowles

The "Stuff needs tarrying by" tonight,
Oh Father, give me grace,
To tenderly, compassionately,
Wash each tired little face.
And just before they're tucked in bed,
To teach them Lord of Thee...
Remembering that it won't be long,
I have them 'round my knee.
There's clothes to fold, the floor to sweep,
And dishes to be done...
And in between to rock and soothe
My feverish little one.
Within my heart I long to be
Down where the anthems roll,
And hear the front-line soldier fight,
For each lost, Hell-bound soul.
I'll tarry by the stuff, Dear Lord,
For very love of Thee,
And hear the anthems, share the spoil
Thru all eternity.
These training days will soon be o'er,
And then with sharp salutes...
They'll all report for duty, Lord,
My young, strong, trained, recruits

I read the first quote on a blog I like to read: www.itakejoy.com
The poem was sent to me by a dear friend and colleague. I love both. They cover everything- from education to wiping noses. It is SO easy to overlook motherhood as a background part of life / not a "real job". Even I sometimes get caught up in the idea that what I am doing isn't "real work" or even real work for the kingdom. That is a great lie! I have these precious souls, entrusted especially to Chris and me, for such a short season. This is the season of my life where these little people, who are growing quickly into big people, need my energy and investment most. I have sadly struggled with seeing that as less important at times, feeling like I should be "doing more".

One day, as I was praying about what God expects of me, Titus 2 came to mind. "³Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good,⁴so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, ⁵to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored. " So that His word is not dishonored. I honor HIM and His word when I love my family, I actually keep His word from being dishonored. Wow, I love that.

I also considered Psalm 127
³ Children are a heritage from the LORD,
offspring a reward from him.
⁴ Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are children born in one’s youth.
⁵ Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their opponents in court.

And the quote from a letter Jim Elliot wrote to his mother as he prepared to leave:
"And what is a quiver full of but arrows? And what are arrows for but to shoot? So with the strong arm of prayer, draw the bowstring back and let the arrows fly – all of them straight at the Enemy’s hosts."

One day my children will fly and it is my job to love them well with the love God has given me.

See a man about a goat

2011-03-26T02:27:00.004-05:00

We have 4 dogs. One is a South African Boerboel/ Rottweiler mix, he is a beautiful beast. I call him a beast on purpose- he is a beast. One day, shortly after we had moved to our house, we found 2 injured goats tied to our fence. As it turns out a neighbor's goats were grazing at our fence, Fezzik (said Boerboel) saw the goats, escaped from our gate, frightened the goats by trying to taste them, thus injuring them. At first the neighbor wanted 80,000 shillings (the equivalent of $984!!) which is an OUTRAGEOUS price for 2 village goats for the damage done to the (living) goats. Chris went to the village elders to discuss his fair responsibilities in the matter. After MUCH discussion and signing of official documents in the very dark room where official village matters are decided Chris was advised to treat the goats only. Every day Chris and our kids (no pun intended) traipsed down our dirt road to the home of the injured goats and injected them with antibiotics. The goats regained strength and the matter was closed, or was it???

We ended up in Nairobi for a long time and so were away from home. Chris received a call from our guard who said the owner of the goats was asking for money again. This time he wanted 40,000 shillings. We were planning a trip home and decided we would handle the matter when we arrived home. The day after we arrived home Chris had to go out to handle some business, when he arrived home the goat-man was waiting. The man said he wanted 40,000 shillings. Chris offered 8,000 and said he would like the goats (and the baby that had been born in the meantime to one of the injured goats). The man countered with 10,000 and he would keep the goats (hmmm...interesting negotiation tactic). Chris then asked the man what he would take as a fair "deal". The man said he wanted "pole" (pronounced Pole-lay). "Pole" is the word for sorry (in an empathetic way) and is used here to mean "sorry for the troubles". Chris had discussed this with some Kenyan friends and they all agreed 500-1000 shillings is a generous "pole". Chris offered the man the "top pole" of 1000 shillings. To this the man said "never mind"!? They shook hands and then pronounced the matter closed. "Really closed?" asked Chris. "Yes, closed", was the reply.

what's up

2011-03-26T02:08:00.003-05:00

We just made a whirlwind trip to the coast to pick up a few things (including a few packages-woohoo) to make the next 6 weeks in Nairobi feel a bit more homey. We got in the car (too) early Tuesday morning, drove about 8 1/2 hours, met with friends, met with the veterinarian, bought supplies for the house, met with a man about his goats (more on that later), picked up packages and waited patiently (kind of) until we reached the house to open them, gathered needed items (including the next 6 weeks of school books -don't know if you know this about us but we have a lot of books), dropped off one of our dogs at a friend's place so our friend can fatten him up (the dog), slept a bit, loaded the car on Thursday and left at a time I am usually not awake to make the 8 1/2 hour trip home. WHEW. I learned that I am not as young as I use to be. I am dog tired (what does that even mean?) It was great to get home and see friends and pick up some things.

It was so hot on the coast. We have essentially missed the really hot part of the hot season this year. I guess if you are going to be away from home for multiple months that is the time to do it!

We continue to have peace about where we are. The doctor is keeping us here to find a balance in Chris's meds. He needs one med to keep his triglycerides down but that med causes painful gastritis, so we are trying a gentler drug. During my times alone with God in His word He has been reminding me of His "faithful love". We are trusting Him for the future and resting in that faithful love.

Sweet J

2011-02-20T10:01:00.007-06:00

More often than not Jaden is the one taking the pictures. So here is one of beautiful Jaden. She is modeling a cool pillowcase dress someone from America made. She wears it as a shirt and makes it look GOOD.

Here is a picture taken by Jaden this week:

EVIDENCE

2011-02-20T09:55:00.003-06:00

Someone drank the last of a coke I had in the refrigerator. I was saving it for later. No one would confess. Later, while uploading pictures onto the computer I came across this....

I think we have the culprit.

gone fishin'

2011-02-20T07:35:00.002-06:00

Some good friends (Max is in the pic) of ours took Chris and Gavin deep sea fishing a couple of days after Christmas. Gavin caught this tuna. It was delicious! Thanks Max and E!

'ata boy, Gavin!

kid pics

2011-02-20T07:26:00.001-06:00

Zephan helping out with the laundry.

2 silly sisters

Back to blogspot

2011-02-19T06:32:00.005-06:00

Currently, we are in a city with good internet and no access to our other blog. So here we are again!

For those who do not know, we have been in Nairobi for the past...5 weeks...wow. It has been an interesting journey. Chris had to be hospitalized with his pancreatitis again. Since we thought we had solved this by having his gall bladder removed we are on the hunt again. His doctor is looking for the cause and trying to determine if this is still acute recurrent or chronic pancreatitis. Since he doesn't drink alcohol and doesn't have a gall bladder anymore we can rule those two out. He has been tested for just about everything else too. We are waiting to get his triglycerides into a normal range and see what happens. I really don't know how much to share. We are in the thick of it and all of the medical terms swim in my head, but do you really need to hear anything but that we are waiting on some tests?

The kiddos are enjoying seeing friends and the cooler weather. We have resumed schooling which helps with the "limbo-ness" of our situation. Right now we are building a replica of a Roman villa. Jaden is LOVING walking around taking pictures and exploring her artistic side. Flowers/ nature are her favorite subjects

This is only ONE of hundreds she has taken. I just love the exploration of perspective!

I keep telling people that God is giving us a chance to practice "waiting". Over and over in His word we read that we should wait on Him. I am not very good at this. I really feel so much more in control, I mean better, if I can at least make up a schedule of what I think should be going on in our lives. I am good at making lists, schedules, plans, etc. I didn't say I am good at the follow through, just excellent at the planning. But God is telling me to give Him tomorrow, live here, today with Him. Do you know how thankful I am? It is really hard and sometimes painful, but I am so glad that He is giving me the opportunity to practice this very important part of my relationship with Him...waiting, trusting. I have been praying for years that I would learn to BE WHERE I AM, not mulling over the past, not planning, fretting, or trying to figure out the future, just where I am, in that moment. He is so good.

Photos from Kenya

2009-04-21T15:26:00.003-05:00

Elephants that we saw from the side of the road.
Zephan enjoying the guest house playground.
Gavin holding a giant millipede.

Emma on the beach in Diani Beach, Kenya.

more Kenya

2009-04-21T15:14:00.003-05:00

This is our new vehicle- a Toyota Noah.
A bible study group in Ukunda, Kenya.
A Digo fishing boat at the Indian Ocean, Kenya.

A Colobus Monkey in our friends backyard.

First couple of weeks in Kenya

2009-04-21T14:37:00.004-05:00

Avery striking an Easter Egg hunting pose.
Gavin, Jaden and Avery with some Massai.

Jaden holding a Chameleon she caught.

Visiting Nana and Pawpaw in Amherst

2009-03-29T20:09:00.007-05:00

My parents (Chris's) recently moved to Amherst, New York. On a recent visit we were able to visit both the American and Canadian sides of the Falls.

This my parents back yard. They get nightly visits from about 5 to 10 deer. Very cool.

Moving to Africa...preparation

2009-03-28T22:26:00.004-05:00

the car
packed and ready to begin our American tour before we leave for Africa
the kiddos were great travelers

the crate

Our friend, Justus, came to spend time with us and help us pack our crate.
Chris and Justus masterfully packed our 200 cubic foot crate. We jokingly called it our life in a walk in closet.

This post is a little out of order. We packed the crate in late December before hitting the road to Florida.

DISNEYWORLD!

2009-03-28T21:43:00.002-05:00

2009-03-28T21:28:00.002-05:00

Vero Beach

2009-03-28T21:12:00.006-05:00

Gavin giving Zephan a lift.

We were able to spend about 3 weeks in Vero Beach with my (Jamie's) grandmother and extended family. We had a great time and made many good memories!

the beach

2009-03-28T21:03:00.002-05:00

jellyfish

Celebrating Avery's 6th Birthday

2009-03-28T20:54:00.002-05:00

Our Vero Beach Abode

2009-03-28T20:37:00.003-05:00

Christmas with Honey and Aunt Jodi

2009-03-28T20:23:00.004-05:00

We were so glad Honey and Jodi came down. We had so much fun with them-
lots of good memories!

Our Christmas tree.

Watching White Christmas~a family tradition!
"Sisters, sisters, there were never such devoted sisters..."

Jodi and Jack are expecting their first baby in March.

Opening gifts.

At GrandBud and Grammie Elaine's

2009-03-28T20:12:00.003-05:00

Uncle Jack and Aunt Jodi cuddle everyone on the couch.

Some dancing!

Gavin reading a good book.

A most delicious spread!
We had a great time with GrandBud and Grammie. We made Gingerbread men ( a family tradition), played in the yard, enjoyed family and some wonderful food. Thanks for some great memories!

Some highlights from PawPaw and Nana's house

2009-03-28T19:58:00.004-05:00

Gavin and Nana (and some yummy pumpkin pie)

Chris cooked an amazing meal.

PawPaw and Avery take care of the leftovers

I found Emma and Harrison eating our gingerbread house! Little stinkers-even Avery got in on the fun.

Nana, baby Lockett, and Jaden enjoying some cuddle time.

2008-12-16T12:26:00.007-06:00

The first weekend in December we were able to spend some time with dear friends we met while at seminary. Thanks for a great weekend of wonderful food and fellowship! We will miss you.

Snow! Glorious Snow!

2008-12-16T12:18:00.004-06:00

We had a wonderful day of snow. We woke to a small blanket covering the ground. In the afternoon the white stuff really began to fall! What a fun blessing for everyone. The kids had some friends over and we had hot cocoa by the fire after they played in the snow for a while.

Long time, no blog

2008-11-28T13:57:00.005-06:00

It has been a while since I have blogged and I have lost my camera! Sorry for the tardiness.
In honor of the hiatus, here are a few random pictures from the past two months (don't get your hopes up-there aren't many).

Me and my man! We don't get too many of these (pics of the two of us) so I had to mark the occasion. Chris is almost done with his classes and we are SO enjoying having him around more now that he isn't working nights.

This is Sam. Sam is a special person to us, especially Jaden. This girl is blessed with wonderful musical talent and a love for God...good combination! We are thankful for Sam's influence in Jaden's life.

This picture is from a visit with a long time friend and her kiddos. Gavin and her oldest are 12 hours apart in age! We sure love them and are grateful for the time we had that day. (sorry, the lens was dirty-I am SUCH the photographer)

Well, I know it isn't much but there it is.

We are enjoying our transition time. We have been able to visit with friends we haven't seen in a while. Right now we are enjoying some time at GranBud and Grammie's. We spent Thanksgiving with friends and family at PawPaw and Nana's. Chris cooked and made the most wonderful food. I wish you could have been there. I will post pics and the menu later.

Tonight we are going to get our Christmas tree! I love the hunt for the tree. Watching the kiddos wander around with eyes wide, searching for the perfect tree, is one of the highlights of the season. We will crate our belongings right before Christmas so the decoration situation will have to be negotiated.

We are in the process of sorting through our earthly possessions- deciding what we will take with us and what will stay. What an undertaking! It is actually pretty liberating. "Stuff" isn't as high on the priority ladder and that feels great.

The leaves are beautiful this year and I am taking lots of mental pictures. I don't imagine there will be many seasonal changes where we are headed. ;) We are so excited and can't believe that the time is getting so close.

Haircuts!!!

2008-10-21T14:06:00.002-05:00

Here are the girls sporting their new do's.

This is Melody. She is the one who cut the girls' hair. She is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside!
Thanks, Melody!

Emma was a little grumpy this morning. :(

Emma's Happy TuTu

2008-10-11T20:27:00.003-05:00

...that is Zephan's way of saying, "Birthday"/ "Happy Birthday to you".

Hello Kitty Celebration at Nana and PawPaw's

Emma and Harris survey the cake.

Mermaid celebration with cake by Honey.

Celebrating with GranBud and Grammie, cousin Whitney and Aunt Chelle (not pictured) from Albania (you guys did fly all the way here to celebrate Emma's bday, right? :) )

Close up of the cake by Honey

I don't think we could eat another piece of birthday cake. Emma's birthday was wonderfully celebrated! What a girl. Emma is such a special girl. What a smile!
It is really wonderful to be your parents, Emma. We truly enjoy the journey parenting you. It is so fun to see who you are becoming. You have a kind heart and are always willing to share (one needs only to ask). We love you so so much!
Your Daddy and I pray that you come to know Jesus as your savior at an early age so that you can have lots of time to walk with Him and get to know Him. We also pray that you will have a hunger for His word. It is a source of joy, comfort, challenge, and connection with the incredible God who loves you!

Zephan's new look

2008-10-10T23:05:00.005-05:00

Before

During...not too sure about what Dad is up to.

We did it. It was a painful decision but we parted with the locks. Chris put in our CARS movie and Zephan was set. He didn't flinch. The only time he lost concentration on the movie was the above picture-what a guy. We are still getting use to the new look but he no longer has to tilt his head back to see past his bangs and doesn't get called "she".

Zephan is 2

2008-09-26T22:11:00.008-05:00

September 27, 2006
Zephan Christopher joins the team

LOVIN' CAKE at his 1st Birthday!

Already 2! Honey made a CARS cake, of course. Zephan LOVES CARS. He was so excited.

This little guy has such a personality. He definitely doesn't mind being the center of attention and knows just how to get it. Sometimes when I put him to bed he holds me tight and pats me on the back before leaning back and telling me he's ready for bed. He plays hard and at the end of the day he is ready for his down time.

I am pretty sure he knows that everyone loves him. He uses this to his advantage!
What a joy to be the parents of this gift from God. We pray that we will be good stewards of this blessing. Zephan, we pray that you come to know the deep love of Jesus at an early age and that He radically transforms your life. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! He is good!

2008-09-26T22:08:00.003-05:00

Aunt Jodi and Uncle Jack help celebrate.

2008-09-26T21:26:00.003-05:00

Zephan had seen a video of people singing the BDAY song to a little girl at her birthday party. He has been singing it for weeks and was delighted that everyone was now singing it to him!

100 Push Up Challenge

2008-08-21T23:03:00.004-05:00

I am blogging during my "rest" period between my push up sets. Hold please...okay...I'm back. So, a few weeks ago Chris asked me to do this 100 push up challenge and I laughed! I laughingly agreed to do it (thinking there was no way I could). We had to test ourselves and I could do 2, yes 2 man push ups. Hold please...okay...I am now in week 3 (I should be in week 4 but missed a few days and started back yada yada) and I just did 20/rest/15/rest/15/rest/ I will do 12 next then rest and do my max (at least 16). I am NOT in great shape...I really don't even do the push up all the way to the ground. BUT! I can do these push ups and feel stronger which was my goal. I have also noticed that when I do pilates it is easier. The program is here if you want to check it out. Gavin is doing it too and blowing me out of the water, of course. Hold...okay, done.

Bella

2008-08-19T10:24:00.005-05:00

I am not getting any kind of perk for advertising here I just wanted to share a movie with you. I wouldn't say it is an entire family movie but "Bella" is worth viewing. Chris and I enjoyed it so much I wanted to share it. The writer, actor, and producer have a united goal to make movies that are meaningful and reflect values (wholesome ones).

It is well written, well filmed, and well acted. There is such beauty in Bella. Beauty in nature, in family, in music, even in the food.

On a personal note...It may not have been their goal but what I was reminded of is Christ's love. I was struck anew with the reality that He really sees me, is deeply empathetic and compassionate, and genuinely loves me. I think we all desire that. Like I said, that wasn't the "theme" of the movie but it's where my thoughts went at the end of the credits.
So run, don't walk to your nearest rental store...ha ha.

the smell of rain

2008-08-17T18:01:00.003-05:00

I realize my last post might be a little misleading. That picture is from a few weeks ago. This week we have had RAIN!!!!!! YIPEE for wonderful, sweet smelling, land and soul refreshing rain.

I love the smell of rain. I love to sit on the porch and watch it fall. I love the sound of rain. I love coming out and seeing puddles. I think some of this comes from summer visits to Florida as a child. I have these great memories of riding my grandmother's bike through puddles along Buckinghammock Trail.

So, there are my thoughts for the day. I hear a cup of Vanilla Chai tea and porch chair calling my name.

Dog Days of Summer

2008-08-17T17:54:00.004-05:00

This is my biker gang coming home after a trip to the pool. It has been a hot, dry summer (as our grass testifies). We are thankful for the pool.

I found another one...

2008-07-17T19:45:00.012-05:00

I found another blog I couldn't resist sharing. You can find it here.

I was introduced to Sally Clarkson through a dear friend and fellow homeschooling mom. Educating the Wholehearted Child by Clay and Sally Clarkson has been a major influence in our thoughts about educating our children. I attended a conference that the Clarksons put on for moms when I only had two wee ones at home and was truly blessed by the encouragement and refreshment I received. The message that especially stood out to me at the time was a word picture Mrs. Clarkson "drew" for us. She is a lover of tea and tea cups. She described (as I recall it) our lives as tea cups. We all have been given a different cup. My cup does not look like yours, or hers, or any one else's- it has been given especially to me. My "job" is to drink MY cup and to learn to be thankful for MY cup. I could get my mind around that one, it is forever filed away, to be pulled when needed.

Recently, I listened to the Wholehearted Mom's conference (2008) on CD. After listening to the cds I wanted to hear more! She touched on so many things the Lord has been teaching me in my life lately. I knew she had a blog out there somewhere so I searched. After reading a few choice entries and filling in what I heard on the conference cds I am processing the reality that my life will not fit in my box. I am an idealist. I have expectations for how things should happen. This is slightly unfortunate in that life rarely happens how we expect (especially when you live with people-haha). I am glad but occasionally alarmed that God is so much bigger than my box. I am learning to drink from the cup He has given me-I wish I was faster (at learning, that is). He is so very good (and patient!). So, take a gander at "I Take Joy". I hope it will be a source of encouragement for you.

confessions of a (whisper) blog stalker

2008-07-05T18:11:00.005-05:00

I had never heard the phrase "blog stalker" until a few days ago. Ha! I love it. Blogs fascinate me. I sincerely love to see people confidently put their thoughts down for all to share. I enjoy knowing people and being known. I have been truly blessed by some of the blogs I visit. God has used them to sharpen me. I am careful to weigh what I read and I do try to measure how much time I give to reading blogs as I am the keeper of a home and manager of 5 little people. But I do have some favorites.

I found a great blog I thought I would share with the ladies. There is a little bit of everything. Check it out here. The blog belongs to Nancy Wilson , her daughters & daughter in law. They have precious crafts, child rearing tips, recipes, spiritual wisdom, and more. My introduction to Nancy Wilson actually came through my husband. Chris had listened to a tape series by her husband, Doug Wilson, called Foundations For Fathers. This tape series was one of the things God used to really shape Chris's vision for our family. Nancy Wilson wrote one of my very favorite books on marriage (for women) called, The Fruit of Her Hands . I am thankful for the Wilson's ministry and influence in my life and the life of my family. I trust you will be blessed as you peruse the "pages" of her blog. And you MUST check out her daughter's website Amoretti Designs ...TOO Cute! Make sure you read the "About us" page with her story.

TTFN... TaTa For Now

HAPPY 4TH!!!

2008-07-04T10:03:00.004-05:00

Poor little Emma has a fever today and so pictures outside hurt her wee eyes. What a sport.

We made Whole Wheat Flag Pancakes for breakfast.
We simply added blue sugar crystals and red tube icing and then flipped them to cook the second side. They were yummy and fun.
(notice the blue around Jaden's mouth)

Picnic in the park

2008-07-03T12:30:00.006-05:00

We each made our own sandwiches (except Zephan, he had help) and some other goodies and headed off to find a new park.

We enjoyed watching the ducks, squirrels, and birds.

Gavin played his guitar for us.

The kiddos got their wiggles out.

And we tried some new foods...
including...
ants....

2008-07-03T12:27:00.002-05:00

Family Night

2008-07-01T21:45:00.003-05:00

Making fajitas~Team Suel style
Chris thought it would be fun to make dinner ALL together...it was.

team preparation...the goggles are for the STRONG onions!!! Good thinking, Gavin!

After dinner we enjoyed a Wii tournament. We played tennis, baseball, and bowling. Much fun!

Zephan and Emma enjoy ...a sack race??

I am feeling rather blessed.

Name Game

2008-06-12T00:05:00.005-05:00

This is what happens when Chris is not home...I find weird things to amuse myself. You too can discover your alternate names! Just copy, paste, and insert your info over mine.

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME (first pet, current car): Misfit Savana

2.YOUR GANGSTA NAME (fave ice cream flavor, favorite type of shoe): Mocha Almond Croc

3. YOUR NATIVE AMERICAN NAME (favorite color, favorite animal): Blue Giraffe

4. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME (middle name, city where you were born): Rebecca Dallas

5. YOUR STAR WARS NAME (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 of your first name): Sueja
6. SUPERHERO NAME (2nd favorite color, favorite drink): Green latte

7. NASCAR NAME (the first names of your grandfathers): William Fred

9. TV WEATHER ANCHOR NAME (your 5th grade teacher’s last name, a major city that starts with the same letter): Hope Houston

10. SPY NAME: (your favorite season/holiday, flower): Spring Hibiscus

11. CARTOON NAME: (favorite fruit, article of clothing you’re wearing rightnow): Pineapple Pants

12. HIPPIE NAME: (What you ate for breakfast, your favorite tree): Coffee Aspen

Jaden is 9!!!!!!!!!

2008-06-09T21:10:00.005-05:00

Honey and Jaden posing with the latest birthday creation.

Everyone (and I mean everyone ;) chipped in to get this birthday present. You can see by the look on her face that she was greatly pleased. The Wii is a cool video gaming system. It is more geared toward group interaction and can be very physical. We have laughed so hard while playing some of these games. This is also so Jaden- to ask for something that everyone could enjoy. Even Emma and Zephan get in on the action!

Honey and her friend, Janine, created this incredible cake(s). It was so perfect for our little dog lover! Thanks so much for another homerun, Honey!

We have been so blessed to be the parents of this wonderful little girl. Jaden is kind, helpful, and funny. She is a good friend and looks out for others. What a treasure. We can't wait to see the plans that God has for this little lady!

I looked up Psalm 9 today...

I will thank the Lord with all
my heart;
I will declare all
Your wonderful works.
I will rejoice and boast
about You;
I will sing about Your name,
Most High.
verses 1&2

This is so appropriate. We do pray that Jaden would have a grateful heart, that she would declare the Lord's wonderful works, and that she will be full of His praise!

Balut...

2008-06-06T23:13:00.011-05:00

is a fertilized duck (or chicken) egg with a nearly-developed embryo inside that is boiled and eaten in the shell. They are common, everyday food in some countries in Asia, such as in the Philippines, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern featured Balut when Mr. Zimmern visited the Philippines. Chris caught the show and was discussing it with some of our church members. This is what resulted:
We fellowship with some of the best people around. This is one example of the fun we have. After a home group Bible Study, our Filipino friends fixed this delicacy for Chris to try. YUM?!

I have to hand it to him...he really gave it his all. He went for the "whole" experience, biting into the egg...no nibbling for Chris. That's my man. Seriously, I love this about him. He is not afraid to try new things.

...let's just say that Balut will not be on our regular menu.

(Chris had to add this picture...not for the faint of heart!!!)

On a side note...apparently, Balut was a featured food on Fear Factor. Someone turned down $50,000.00 (what I heard) so they wouldn't have to eat it...
my husband did it for kicks (flex those muscles, Chris!).

Believing God

2008-05-30T01:00:00.003-05:00

I have been talking a lot about believing God in my Bible study. God is giving me chances to do so.

~Jamie

2008-05-23T19:24:00.004-05:00

One of the things I love about Emma is that she marches to the beat of her own drummer.

2008-05-23T19:11:00.003-05:00

Gavin has become a major fan of Lego Star Wars. He can put those things together in no time, flat! It is such fun to watch him work and enjoy the product of his labor.

Gotta love this face

2008-05-23T19:09:00.002-05:00

Yeah...I have nothing to add...

2008-05-23T19:07:00.002-05:00

Jaden, the climber

2008-05-23T19:03:00.002-05:00

Jaden is so excited because she can finally climb the big tree in the field beside our house. Gavin regularly scampers up and has a grand time in the multitude of branches so Jaden is psyched to be able to make it up by herself.

Biker Gang

2008-05-23T18:52:00.003-05:00

Avery and Jaden have become expert bike riders so I thought I should share some pictures. Emma recently got a cute little bike with training wheels and is SURE that she should be able to ride wherever and whenever the big girls do.

eleven years ago today...

2008-04-27T22:18:00.008-05:00

a little boy joined our family.

Gavin has grown into such a great kid. He is funny, clever, smart, and is so talented,among other things. He loves climbing trees, being with friends and family, making people laugh, sports, and music. He even plays the drums at our church!

His honey made him a drum cake...too cool.

(Gavin pointed out that his eye kind of looks crazy here-must have been the angle, he said he didn't do it on pupose)

What a kid. We are so very thankful that we get to be the ones to raise this boy and see what God's plans are for him. Our prayer is that he continues to grow in wisdom, stature, and in favor with God and man. We also pray that he will hide the word of God in his heart, that he may not sin against God, and keep his way pure.
Gavin: White Hawk
Edward: Happy Protector

joining the club

2008-04-27T22:13:00.003-05:00

Avery lost her first tooth this week. She was so brave and let Daddy pull it. What excitement!

a dad, a boy, and some clippers

2008-04-27T22:05:00.002-05:00

Gavin decided he was ready to get his hair cut. The next day he and Chris set up their barber shop on our porch and the rest is history. Some like it short, others are sad he cut it. We were okay either way, as long as his heart was in the right place.

Emma's 3rd Birthday...a "little" late

2008-04-27T21:54:00.004-05:00

Fairy Princess Birthday

Exquisite cake by Honey...beautiful and YUMMY!

This was her face while we sang Happy Birthday...too precious!

Sweet Emma. We are so thankful for this precious girl. She is funny, creative, sweet, independent, nurturing, and loves to dress up. She is also such a helper.

I just noticed the other day that I never blogged Emma's big day in October, shame on me!

Easter!

2008-04-05T11:47:00.002-05:00

2008-04-05T11:35:00.004-05:00

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today.
He walks with me, He talks with me along life's narrow way.
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart.
You ask me how I know He lives, He lives within my heart.

The words to this hymn were in my head the whole week before Easter.
This section of lyrics says it all. Salvation and the presence of God in my life-makes me want to sing right now!

Jamie's Birthday

2008-04-05T11:09:00.003-05:00

Another one of Honey's fabulous cakes!
The flowers are actually little iced sugar cookies...the kiddos promptly ate them all.

The birthday crown my mother made me to make me look silly, I mean special.

love that face

Happy Birthday, Chris!

2008-04-05T10:31:00.007-05:00

I have no idea how I got these photos to place this way!?! Oh well...

February 25, 2008
Chris celebrated his birthday at Benihana's...YUM! Some friends joined us and graciously took pictures (I forgot my camera...hello!) The kiddos loved watching the chefs do their thing and ate up the delicious food.
The kiddos say that some of their favorite things about Daddy are...
He makes me laugh
He's funny
He makes me smile
He likes to take us fun places
He loves us so much
He loves God
He has a loving heart for people (around the world)
He preaches for God
He's really nice
He's my buddy
He's handsome
He's a Christian

I would have to agree.

offering

2008-04-04T21:18:00.010-05:00

“Sometimes a task we have begun takes on seemingly crushing size, and we wonder what ever gave us the notion that we could accomplish it. There is no way out, no way around it, and yet we cannot contemplate actually carrying it through. The rearing of children or the writing of a book (and I would add, learning the Albanian language) are illustrations that come to mind. Let us recall that the task is a divinely appointed one, and divine aid is therefore to be expected. Expect it! Ask for it, wait for it, believe that God gives it. Offer to Him the job itself, along with your fears and misgivings about it. He will not fail or be discouraged. Let His courage encourage you. The day will come when the task will be finished. Trust Him for it. ~from Elisabeth Elliot's A Lamp Unto My Feet

‘For the Lord God will help me; therefore shall I not be confounded:

therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know that I shall not be

ashamed. (Is. 50:7 KJV)’”

My sweet sister in Christ (and by marriage), Chelle Stire, had this on her blog. What timing. We feel so overwhelmed right now with school, work, family, responsibilities, etc. Today I was thinking to myself, "HOW IN THE WORLD am I suppose to cook healthy meals, home school our children, be a frugal shopper, give my Lord my priority & best time, exercise to keep my body healthy, keep the house reasonably clean & managed, help my husband, be good mother, daughter, sister, and friend, etc. " I do have a point- I am not complaining, I genuinely wanted to know! This is about the time I read Chelle's blog. Who says we don't have a sovereign God? I know that my Redeemer lives and that He cares about me. He has made me wife to Chris, mother to five very precious people, and all of the other things I mentioned. Do I think He really gives these big jobs with no desire or ability to see them through? Raising children, for example, is a God-sized task!

As you can see, this is part of God's grace in showing me that I can't do all of this on my own (see previous post: Broken...). I need Him and He IS there! Chelle encouraged me in an email to not miss this time thinking about and preparing for the future. God is working here and now. I have said before that I believe that God is more interested in my relationship with Him than what I think I can do for Him. Sounds like He is giving me the opportunity to put this into practice.

May my life song sing to Him!

REST

2008-03-30T18:17:00.004-05:00

The Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath.

Luke 2:27

We need rest, God cares for us and so tells us (commands us, see 10 Commandments) to rest. Thanks, God!

Broken...Open Up Your Skies

2008-03-30T17:14:00.007-05:00

In the night I wait for You to rescue me

From these empty things that leave me thirsting.

Still my heart is only Yours and this ache is my heart's cry-

Let my hands reach out and touch more than the sky

And I know that there are hidden rooms

And I struggle with unsearchable truths

And I know there's a limit to man

Yes, I'm a limited man

Limited as I may be, I find my solace in a tree

I find You there with pierced and broken hands

So open up Your skies, let these rains fall down

On these fields so dry, on this barren ground.

Ashamed I hide and hope that You won't see

And keep Your knowing gaze far from me

I'm a broken offering, overwhelmed with all this pain

Yet I lay myself before You all the same

Bruised and scarred as I may be

I find my solace in a tree

I find You there, with pierced and broken hands

So open up Your skies, let these rains fall down

On these fields so dry, on this barren ground

I was made for this

Your embrace and kiss

To hold the hand and know the heart of God

I was made with this

Broken, emptiness

How did I live before I knew Your touch?

Open up Your skies, let these rains fall down

On these fields so dry, on this barren ground

In the night I wait for You to rescue me

From all these empty things that leave me thirsting.

~from Come Like the Fall by Tim Suel

This seems to be something God wants me to get my mind around. He has been teaching me that we are all broken. There is not one of us that has it all together (as much as I'd like that). We all need Him. We need Jesus. His word (the Bible) is not a book of do's and don'ts from a taskmaster. His word is LIFE. I love the lines I bolded. I was made for Him. He lets (and wants) me to know Him.

I was reading today from a study I am doing by Henry & Richard Blackaby (When God Speaks) that, "If you found yourself in a war-torn country and had to pass through a minefield to return to safety, your life would be in enormous peril. ONe wrong step would have disastrous consequences! If a soldier approached you while you stood in the middle of the minefield and handed you a map marking the location of the mines, those instructions would immediately become the most important information in your life. The rules you had to follow would not discourage you. So God's Word, when followed and implemented, brings you out of death into full and abundant life."

I am broken. I need Him. Oh my goodness, I am so thankful for Jesus. He is my constant friend, the Holy Spirit teaches and comforts me. God's word is alive and active, sometimes it hurts, sometimes I do not like what it reveals in me, but it is LIFE. He uses His word to show me His GREAT love for this broken child...His plan for this proud daughter...praise God, He is not done with me!!!!

ONLY IN TEXAS!

2008-03-06T21:02:00.004-06:00

Yep, we had snow today-lots of it.
I was wearing capri length pants and crocs yesterday. Today the heater was on and I was in my cozy, cold weather clothes.

Our friends, the Mays, walked down to play in the snow. Chris May had everyone snowball fighting-thanks, Chris.
Gavin was down the street playing with some other friends so he didn't make the photo session.
We sure enjoy our neighborhood, there is always someone willing to throw a snowball at you.

2008-03-06T20:50:00.002-06:00

Snow Angels...

Zephan's first EVER experience of snow!

Avery's gonna get me!

Emma tasting the snow

The kiddos were so excited about the snow. We had a little teaser snow on Monday night but nothing stuck and the temp was pretty warm Tuesday and Wednesday. Today, the flakes that fell were HUGE and gorgeous. We all felt so blessed. The kids had prayed for snow and so they felt especially excited to see the glorious flakes.

my grandfather

2008-02-16T13:56:00.006-06:00

Frederick Eithel Baker, Jr.
July 21, 1921-January 26, 2008

I am so thankful for the time with my grandfather. I am also thankful for the time with my family as we gathered to celebrate his life. My grandfather knew Jesus as his Savior and so is now in heaven experiencing joy we can't comprehend. He had been in so much pain and now he is free from that! He is worshiping and fellowshipping with God!! Wow.
My grandparents were married for 64 years and I am so very thankful for their legacy. Grandpa called my grandmother "my girl" up until the time of his death. He deeply loved her and we knew it. They were each other's~gifts from the heavenly Father. They weathered the storms of life and celebrated the good times together. They built a family together. They served the Lord and His church together. They traveled together. They even worked together.
There are so many precious memories of times with them in my mind. We had a lot of good times. Family meant a lot to Grandpa. A good name meant a lot to him. In his obituary we read that he was proud that a handshake was what he worked with. He meant what he said. At his funeral we learned that the Ark and other portions of the Bible dealing with building were especially meaningful to him. He was a builder. God's word is living and active and spoke to my grandfather's heart. He appreciated that Jesus is the foundation upon which we must build. He is the cornerstone.
My grandfather was ready for death. He knew whom He had believed-Jesus, Savior of all who receive Him; the Way, the Truth, the Life. He believed that no one comes to the Father except through Jesus. I believe this with my whole heart too. This is where my hope, my purpose, and my joy come from.
My grandparents took me to church, Sunday school, & Vacation Bible School when we stayed with them because they knew that our spiritual foundation must be laid in the truth of God's word. I am so thankful.
They took us to the beach, fishing, swimming, camping, to Disney World, and many other places. They made time for us and for our family to get together.

Grandpa had a poem in his Bible titled "I'm Free". Here is an excerpt:
Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me
I took his hand when I heard Him call
I turned my back and left it all...
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much.
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all to brief;
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me
God wanted me now, He set me free.

After Grandpa's funeral, we were driving around when the following song came on the radio. God is so good!

In Christ alone, my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this solid ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save
'Till on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave He rose again
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost it's grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life's first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no scheme of man
can ever pluck me from His hand
'Till He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand

2008-02-16T13:28:00.003-06:00

Meredith and Marc

Avery and Emma's first flight. They enjoyed everything and did so well. Well, Avery had a hard time with the pressure in her ears while we were landing.
We flew to Vero with Jack and Jodi-thanks guys- which made traveling with 5 kiddos much easier.
On the way home to Ft. Worth we traveled with Mom and Jodi. This is the way to travel with kids!

2008-02-16T13:26:00.004-06:00

yeah, I am pretty sure they are actually reading
Thomas and Emma got along swimmingly. They were precious. Emma pretended she was Thomas's mom all week...and he let her! She was in her element.

Keith, Dana, Stacey,Rick, Zephan, Me, and Nancy
I so enjoyed the time with all of my cousins and their significant others. What a treasure!

2008-02-16T13:23:00.003-06:00

Jack, Stephanie, and Jodibed head

Aunt Joan, Aunt Marilyn, Me, Zeph, Stacey, and Uncle Rick (making a family staple...coffee!)

2008-02-16T13:20:00.003-06:00

These turtles are all over the city with various designs. Being an animal lover, Jaden wanted her picture taken with one.

one must wash one's feet after one has been on the beach
This too brings back so many memories. This is the same shower stand I used as a child.

2008-02-16T13:17:00.003-06:00

cousins

These were taken at "the fountains" as we call them. They were put up by the city of Vero Beach after they tore down the old draw bridge (sigh, "the memories"). The kiddos love playing here.

2008-02-16T13:14:00.003-06:00

Okay. I must brag on my husband. He is a patient man. He is a wonderful father. He patiently trained Zephan at the beach. Zephan was screaming at the beginning of our trip to the beach. He didn't like the sand. Chris made him walk, didn't cave for his crying, persevered and helped Zephan learn to be content (at least) at the beach. He eventually even enjoyed playing in the sand! Thanks, babe!

2008-02-16T13:10:00.004-06:00

our hosts for the week~ Nancy, Thomas, and Meagan. My cousin, Rick, is a doctor and had to be at the hospital that morning. It was so fun being at the beach with all of our kiddos. Rick and I had such fun at the beach together as children!
Rick and Nancy were the most excellent hosts. Great food, great coffee, great fellowship, great everything. We so enjoyed our time with them~thanks guys!

havin' fun with Aunt Jodi

la fam et la mer!

2008-02-16T13:05:00.003-06:00

muscle man

Jaden the mermaid

2008-02-16T12:52:00.003-06:00

on the dolphin!

where Zephan spent most of his day at the beach

Jaden holding Meagan. Jaden is such a sweetie!

Saying Goodbye

2008-02-16T12:21:00.005-06:00

God (and Mom) gave me a special gift. I was able to fly to Florida in January with my mom and Zephan to visit my grandparents and family.
I can't express what this trip meant to me. My spirit was refreshed with hours of time alone with my heavenly Father, Mom and I sweetly walked down memory lane many times, I had wonderful visits with my extended family, Zephan slept like a rock-I think it was all of the individual attention, and I was able to say "good bye" to my grandfather. I was able to tell him "thank you" for teaching me and taking me to swim and fish. I was able to look into his eyes and tell him I love him.
What a gift!

Zephan was playing a tickle game with Grandma Baker. They were so funny. He thought he was getting her good...maybe he was.

Zephan really wasn't sure about the sandy beach but he sure wanted to get those birds! By the way...the water was COLD!

Every Baker/Lovell/Suel has to have their picture taken on the Humiston Dolphin. IT IS TRADITION!

TIM IS ON I TUNES!!!

2008-01-17T19:54:00.000-06:00

Check it out on I Tunes! Very good stuff...see my earlier post.

Look Who's 5!!!!!!!!

2008-01-06T17:54:00.003-06:00

Honey made Princess Cupcakes, brought decorations, and helped

Avery feel oh-so-special!

Now that I'm 5 I can climb trees.
Uncle Jack and Aunt Jodi came to party too.
Princess Avery and her hand made by Honey card.

Avery lives up to her name...Avery JOY. She loves to laugh and is always ready to be with friends-new or old. We are so thankful for this girl. We can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for her. Our prayer is that she walks closely with Jesus, enjoys Him, and brings glory to His name.

Random Pictures from India

2008-01-06T11:17:00.000-06:00

2008-01-06T11:07:00.000-06:00

The girls think the guy on the left looks like Captain Stronghold (Kurt Russell). The one on the right is our good friend, Zack Greer. The guy in the middle is Kenny-we can thank him for all of the pics so far on the India blogs.

cuisine

Chris loves the relational aspect of the Indian people.

INDIA

2008-01-06T10:51:00.002-06:00

Chris and buddy, Andrew, visiting with locals. This has been such a fun aspect of the trip.

I have been updating via email. If you want to be added to the list send me an email.

~Jamie

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-25T12:31:00.000-06:00

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given. And the government shall be upon His shoulders. And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God,

the Everlasting Father, the Prince of peace(!)" Isaiah 9:6

We are thanking God today, for Jesus truly is the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of peace. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, there is no other way to the Father but through His Son, Jesus. PRAISE GOD!!!

the Christmas tree

2007-12-17T00:14:00.000-06:00

passionate ramblings

2007-12-16T23:07:00.002-06:00

I want to be passionate-about Jesus, about my family, about life. It is so easy to just stay in the mundane. We have just finished a sermon series at our church called "Living Life on the Mount, Less in the Valley". I think this is a desire for everyone. When I think of living life like this I picture standing on top of a lush green mountain, a large blue sky, my arms wide open, head tilted back, and the sense of the fullness of the presence of God. Of course, I have few moments totally alone or on anything higher than an overpass. But, I do have times where my in my heart I am praising God on that scenic mount.
I am waiting on God right now. As I have been waiting I have sensed Him reminding me that it is not necessarily the end destination He is concerned with but my heart as I travel. I sense Him telling me to seek the Blesser rather than the blessing (quote from a sermon I heard this year). Oh, I want that! I want to want God more than I want from Him (sounds confusing). He wants me! He wants my heart, my trust, my love. He is so worthy of it.
One of my greatest desires is that my children see me loving Jesus and want a relationship with Him too. I pray that my own sin and failures will not be a stumbling block but that as God molds me and His strength is made perfect in my weakness they will see HIS power at work in me.
I have been reading Passionate Housewives Desperate for God. I have read a lot of books on family/ being a wife and mother and this one is the one God is using to speak to the depths of my heart. It is my humble opinion that because we are all different what turns one woman's world upside down might not be the kicker for another woman. Not that I haven't learned from, been greatly challenged by, and been encouraged by so many great books but this one is grabbing me! As I read I truly am drawn to being desperate for God. I sense such great freedom even as I am realizing that I can never do this job. I am simply not good enough to do the job that needs to be done. BUT He is. He is my Resting Place, my Refresher, my Strong Supporter, my Redeemer-Praise God!!! Now to walk in this grace. Such a worldly paradox- I gain my freedom by obeying. Not just obeying anyone- obeying the One who loves me perfectly, who securely sets my feet upon the rock, protects me, knows all, the Creator and Sustainer of all.
Thanks for letting me ramble.

Sisters, sisters...

2007-11-03T21:13:00.000-05:00

there were never such devoted sisters.

These perfect angels had a "slumber party" the other night. They all slept (well, at least they started out in the same bed) together and giggled and sang for a long time. Wow, how thankful I am for these little girls. They are precious. Each of them is so different! I am so amazed by our Creator. I cannot wait to see them come to know and love the Father and have their own relationships with the God who loves and knows them better than anyone. I pray that they really get the truth down deep into them, that they are supremely loved by the Supreme Himself and are of precious value to Him.

...did I say perfect angels????

More!Free!Stuff!

2007-11-01T22:04:00.000-05:00

I don't know if you know about Vision Forum Ministries so let me introduce you. Vision Forum resources have been a huge influence on our family. When we had only 2 children in our minivan, some friends introduced us to Doug Phillips/ Vision Forum. Our friends lent us cd's with messages about having a vision for our family- a multi generational vision. We would take long drives listening to these messages. We began to see that the decisions we are making today will have a lasting impact on our children and their spouses, and their children and spouses, etc. We so desire for that legacy to be one of faithfulness and wholehearted love and devotion to our awesome God.

Our daughters proudly mother two of the Beautiful Girlhood dolls Vision Forum sells- they are high quality and just precious. Gavin has shot darts from his blowgun and crossbow from Vision Forum. They do a great job of rounding up wholesome playthings/ entertainment that is of good quality. I cannot think of a year when a Vision Forum item hasn't been on a Christmas wishlist. I encourage you to check it out... http://www.visionforum.com/

So...I was reading this blog I like to check out, called... Life in a Shoe
I like the blog because Kim is a young mother of 8 (and counting!) who shares so many good ideas and thoughts. WELL, Kim is hosting a GIVE AWAY of Vision Forum products. To enter, I post my VF wishlist and create links to her blog and to Vision Forum. So, here is my Vision Forum wishlist! Grandparents, feel free to take note ;)

1. So Much More
2. Passionate Housewives: Desperate for God
3. The Adventure of Missionary Heroism
4. Of Plymouth Plantation
5. "Just Like Mama" doll set
6. Make Your Own Doll Dress Kit
7. The Elsie Audio Collection
8. Jonathan Park Volume 1- The Adventure Begins

For the products/materials:
Vision Forum
For the contest:
Life in a Shoe

FALL FESTIVAL

2007-10-31T19:38:00.001-05:00

All dressed up and ready to go...

Our church had a Fall Festival. Our children LOVE any reason to dress up. To be able to go out in public , well...that's the best!

Chris headed up the group as Indiana Jones complete with a whip.

Gavin is a scurvy pirate....ARRGH!

Gavin has had an interest in pirates ever since he read Under Drake's Flag by G.A. Henty. Chris told him that there might be a family connection to Sir Francis Drake.?????????

Jaden is Sacagawea with her baby on her back.

"Sacagawea is the perfect example of a persevering woman who demonstrated enormous character at a critical moment in American history. Carrying her infant son on her back throughout the entire journey, she served as a guide and translator for Lewis and Clark through the dangerous western mountains on their expedition to the Pacific Ocean."
~taken from the Vision Forum website

OK, it's not a son on her back- Jaden still had a blast!

2007-10-31T19:27:00.000-05:00

June Cleaver at your service.

Emma is our 50's chick. She actually wore a ponytail and tennis shoes but this was taken early. Emma loves to dress up (really all of the kiddos do). She has a princess outfit that has seen better days but that she faithfully puts on at least once a day.

Avery didn't care what she was as long as she could be "FAN-SAY' "...so she is our Fancy Cowgirl-watch out, partner!

And rounding out the crew...SUPERBABY! You can't tell by the photo but Superbaby
has a snotty nose, a cruddy cough, and a fever. He and
Mom stayed home tonight.

He just came up to me, sat in my lap and waved "bye-bye"
I think he wants to go to bed....

Back now. He WAS asking me to go to bed! How cute is that?

North America

2007-10-31T19:13:00.001-05:00

We studied North America in school for the first six weeks. We ended the United States with an all-American cook out with some friends. At the end of our Mexico unit we made tortillas. And when we finished Canada we watched Anne of Green Gables and ate snowballs with maple syrup (vanilla ice cream with maple syrup on top-YUM!).
We are loving Exploring Countries and Cultures by My Father's World. Check out the site if you are interested...www.mfwbooks.com

She Did It!

2007-10-31T19:11:00.000-05:00

Daddy took Jaden to get her ears pierced. She didn't even cry (even though it hurt!).

She's Three!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-10-04T12:23:00.000-05:00

Who ARE these girls????

2007-09-28T21:30:00.001-05:00

Okay, Emma did not get her hair cut but how could she not be in the picture?

Jaden decided it was time for a change. Avery wanted in on whatever Jaden was doing~especially since it involved a trip to the "beauty shop".

Exploring Countries & Cultures

2007-09-14T20:48:00.001-05:00

We started "back" to school the day after Labor Day. Here are our world travelers applying for their passports.

We use My Father's World (www.mfwbooks.com) curriculum. We are so excited about this year's curriculum (Exploring Countries & Cultures) as it allows us to focus on one of our passions...the nations! This year will be an intense geography year. We also study Bible, Science, great biographies, English, math, Spanish...most of it is all connected as a kind of unit study. I am soooo excited!

The kiddos really loved the passport day. Chris and I pretended to be passport officials. The kids had to apply for their passports, write checks for them, and have their pictures taken. We laughed and had a great time.

I think this one looks a little suspicious! or should I say mischievous?

Ready to travel!

Smiling for Mr. Travelogia, the photographer (Chris),

Definitely a ring leader!