tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13610794457864777662024-03-13T03:09:46.687-07:00LivGraceLearning to live inside the grace of each day.
Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-70530685092129325642016-07-15T11:11:00.000-07:002016-07-20T15:31:44.090-07:00Notes for 40: Be Alert ... But Don't Be Afraid<div align="center">
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I'm sharing a few lessons that I'd like to carry on into my 40's . You know how you hear something that resonates and you think, "That's good. I want to be/do/live that". Same. Perhaps in writing them here, I will remember and reference them later on down the road. Maybe something will resonate with you too.<br />
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<b>Lesson #2</b><br />
<b> </b><br />
<h2>
<b>"Be alert and always keep on praying" (Ephesians 6:18)</b></h2>
I
mentioned fear in my <a href="http://livgracefull.blogspot.com/2016/06/notes-for-40-about-circumstances.html">last post</a>. At some point we all kind of discover that life doesn't exactly turn out the way we had hoped or planned. We live in a scary world that seems to be becoming more dangerous by the week. From Orlando to Minnesota to Dallas to Nice and so on ... what kind of future are we facing? On a personal level, I began to find it hard to look forward to the future because I was always waiting for the "other shoe to drop". Then I found
this verse:<br />
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This
has become my prayer: Lord, let me be a woman who can find laughter and be joyful without fear of
the future. Scared people don't laugh. Let me be fearless,<i> EVEN IF</i>. <i> Even if</i> the world we live in is unpredictable. <i>Even if</i> I could be one phone call away from crisis. <i>Even if</i> I am imperfect and broken. Because <i>EVEN IF</i> ... God is still good. I can find joy. I MUST find joy. </div>
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If I could trust a God who is
always faithful; A God who is writing my story and has only my best
interest at heart; a God who loves me extravagantly... If I can believe
that God is always good, I CAN FACE TOMORROW WITH NO FEAR. I'll be
honest. I'm still working on it; fear tries to creep in. I don't believe that we should dig our heads in the sand and refuse to acknowledge that sometimes things really stink. Sometimes life is unfair and bad things happen. I don't want to just say positive things and hope that they will be true. I want to live real. I want to be alert and always
in prayer about everything. I MUST be alert and always in prayer. And what else am I to do, but cling to Jeremiah 29:11?</div>
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<i>For I know the plans<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-19647E" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup> I have for you,” declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, “plans to prosper<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-19647F" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup> you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.</i></blockquote>
There is always something to be joyful about. We can always find a reason to laugh.<br />
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Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-60663535907673451882016-06-29T17:13:00.003-07:002016-06-29T17:17:16.522-07:00Notes for 40: About Circumstances<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, it's happened. I'm 40 now. In all honesty, I'm not disappointed. My 30's were full of all sorts of 'hard', and I don't want to go back there! I have always felt that although 40 is not young, it's not old either, and I've hoped that I would have gained some wisdom by now. HA! While that is questionable, I have picked up on a few truths that I hope to bring into the next decade. Instead of listing everything in one long, drawn-out post, I've decided to make it kind of a series. I am hoping that this will get me writing more often. Oh, how I've missed it - and you! I noticed that today marks exactly 5 months since I last wrote here. No good!<br />
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So here goes. Lesson #1:<br />
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"Your circumstances don't make you, they simply reveal who you already are." </h2>
This was a hard one to hear. I was reading the book, "Lies Women Believe" (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) with a friend, when we came across the quote above. Can I just say one thing? OUCH! Nancy didn't hold back in this book, but I'm thankful for that because we all need someone who is willing to tell us the hard truth! I can't blame anybody or any circumstance for how I behave or respond to adverse situations. <br />
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For example, I might say, "I wouldn't have thrown that plate across the room if he hadn't made me so angry." This puts the blame on "him". "He" made me do it. Yet the truth is that I threw the plate (hypothetical, okay!) because I have an anger problem and I allowed it to get the best of me. <br />
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Or, "I ate so much because I was stressed" (not hypothetical). But really I ate so much (cake, cookies, ice cream, chocolate) because I am addicted to sugar and it makes me feel better for like 10 minutes until I start feeling guilty and then I feel even worse (too honest?).<br />
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Or, I might say, "I was never impatient before I had kids". Actually, I was. Having kids just gave that trait an opportunity to arise. <br />
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On the other side of the coin, some situations have taught me that I am stronger than I knew. While I never want to go 'back there', I am grateful for the hard things that have made me stronger. Some lessons are only learned by experience. And with experience comes maturity (hopefully!). <br />
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"...<em>we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us</em>." -Romans 5:3-5</blockquote>
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<em>"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." </em>James 1:2-5</blockquote>
I also discovered that I had some 'ugly' lurking beneath the surface. Things like discontent, self-pity, un-forgiveness and one that took me by surprise - fear, especially when it comes to my children. I never considered myself any of those things before. But I love what Maya Angelou says:<br />
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"<em>When you know better, you do better.</em>" </blockquote>
I don't know what kind of challenges are around the corner, but dear Jesus, please let me wear my circumstances well! So here's to 40 and to living a "better broken"! <br />
<br />Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-15573012955609062132016-01-29T16:23:00.000-07:002016-01-29T16:30:00.377-07:00Quiet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Hello, Five-Minute Friday! I've missed you. I've linked up over <a href="http://katemotaung.com/2016/01/28/five-minute-friday-quiet/">here</a> with other bloggers, where we overlook mistakes and imperfection and just write for five minutes on the same prompt. </i></blockquote>
I'm stuck here in a quiet house, amidst Kleenix and cough drops and vapor rub. Ick. It's my day off and all I can do is rest. I'm torn between wanting to take advantage of a good excuse to do nothing and that nagging voice in my head that tells me I need to be productive. You'd think it'd be a no-brainer, huh.<br />
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Doing nothing has won out. My pounding head has seen to that. I've sat here on the couch while my sweet girl cleaned the kitchen, vacuumed, and made pancakes, all with her little one under foot. I wished that I could at least scoop up my grandson so she could work more quickly (dumb sick germs). <br />
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I'm left to these thoughts in a clean, quiet house, as my loves head to the grocery store for weekend supplies. I worry that she'll have a hard time juggling her wallet and bags and the baby, but then smile and remind myself that she can do it. She's a mom. And God gave moms capes.<br />
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Quiet seasons can be hard. I'm in the middle of one. There is a nagging and a tugging that I should be doing more. I want to do more. But if having a baby in the house has taught me anything, it's to slow down. One season at a time. I think that's the gift of becoming a grandma. We know by experience how quickly these baby days go by. The gift of savor ... I like that.Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-90471343091694938252015-12-31T16:29:00.000-07:002015-12-31T16:31:06.270-07:00Before the Year Closes ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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WAIT! I'm not finished with Christmas yet!! We have only hours left until the new year and I'm grasping the last few moments to share our Christmas with you! </div>
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This little Joy Guru made the season especially bright!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard core!</td></tr>
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Doing a Jesse Tree has become one of my favorite traditions. I use Ann Voskamp's Advent devotional, <em>The Greatest Gift </em>to number the days and to stay mindful of the love story woven for us since the beginning of time. Such a wonderful reminder of why I love Christmas!<br />
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Decorating for any season is a love of mine. We kept things much simpler and baby friendly for our curious crawler!</div>
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We kept soft ornaments near the bottom of the tree ...</div>
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... and replaced the Willow Tree Nativity that normally sits on the bottom shelf with this Little People Nativity. </div>
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It was magical watching my daughter introduce Jax to his first Christmas and I was so blessed to get to be a part of it! </div>
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We bundled up for the Christmas parade ...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa's Star Wars float</td></tr>
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... watched his mommy's first Pax de Duex ... </div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Kb-83Reqjkn57DpTMEWBJwksmxEpNb3QurtjJJ_ICWAVhbQOweK0IndIj30L6YnmCDRh_ik1t4nNJJD95gQP_lGtMaAfPdgGuuqnoe7KFL0DR7UgypS2AJ9QuIcDgKKoOekK1WkjAJU/s640/blogger-image-586016648.jpg" /></div>
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... and turned 9 months old!</div>
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Christmas morning was as exciting as you can imagine! Celebrating Jesus' birthday with family - what else could one ask for? </div>
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Here, in the final hours of 2015, may we smile at this years victories and reflect on how we have grown from the hard things. Let us look forward with hope and joy for the coming year and may it be so, so blessed!</div>
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Love, Liv</div>
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Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-39631434990707968382015-10-05T18:14:00.000-07:002015-10-05T18:14:43.284-07:00Fall Nostalgia and a Recipe!<div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">What is it about Fall?</span><br />
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I think it's the coziness of it. Like falling into your own bed after being away for a while. Like hugging your own pillow. <br />
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It's familiar. Comfortable. Fall brings with it the longing for family and the making of memories.<br />
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Today feels especially Fallish. It's cool out. The house smells like pumpkin spiced candles. And I'm missing my sister, Monica. I'm missing the five of us siblings squishing together on a couch made for three, talking and laughing about things that make sense only to us.<br />
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The last time she was here for the holidays, we made a ton of Monica's honey cookies. Can I tell you we at every last one?! Yup. They didn't make it past the cooling rack! Don't judge.<br />
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I made the cookies today. Celine and I had one with a cup of coffee during my lunch break.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Mmm... </i></b></span><br />
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Can you feel it?<br />
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<b> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Fall. </span></span></b><br />
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Since I'm feeling so nostalgic and I love to share with those I like most, here is the recipe!<br />
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<b>Monica's Honey Cookies</b><br />
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1 cup shortening 2 & 3/4 cups flour<b> </b><br />
1/2 cup brown sugar 3/4 teaspoon salt<br />
1/2 cup honey 1/2 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1 egg 1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla 1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
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Cream together shortening and brown sugar <br />
Beat in honey, egg and vanilla<br />
Gradually blend in dry ingredients, which have been sifted together<br />
Chill the dough at least 3 hours<br />
Roll to 1/8 - 1/4 " thickness on lightly floured surface<br />
Cut with floured cookie cutters<br />
Bake on ungreased cookie sheet at 375 F for 8-10 minutes<br />
*Yields about 2 1/2 dozen<br />
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Go ahead - eat them all. I won't judge!</div>
Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-62014560119483402992015-10-01T18:04:00.001-07:002015-10-01T18:07:13.781-07:00Still there?Hello? Is anyone still there?<br />
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I'm dusting off my keyboard and clearing a place for you to sit down and visit. Go ahead and fix yourself a cuppa something yummy and then come put your feet up for a bit. We've got some catching up to do!<br />
<br />
So <i>how are you</i>? I really want to know. It's been a while since we've talked and I've missed you bunches.<br />
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I am doing well and I can't tell you how happy I am that it is <i>today - </i>the first day of October. <br />
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I'm loving the tastes and smells of Fall, and especially the feeling that something good and new is around the corner. <br />
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Growing is painful and scary. But it is good. So good. <a href="http://livgracefull.blogspot.com/2015/01/and-all-people-said-amen.html">The past year</a> has been all sorts of stretching and struggling to break out of my old skin and grow into this new one. In all of the uncomfortable I felt that I should stay quiet - I didn't feel that I quite had my wits about me. And then suddenly, the dark clouds parted and the first light of sunrise broke through.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The </span><a href="http://livgracefull.blogspot.com/2014/12/cannon-baaaalll.html"><span style="font-size: x-large;">sunrise is most beautiful after the storm</span></a>. <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"After a night of howling wind, pounding thunder, and pulling covers over your head, the morning wakes to stillness. The earth is mushy; branches and washed up debris litter the ground. But look up. <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Always. Look. Up.</b></span> </span>The sky is beautifully painted a mixture of oranges and pinks, promising the arrival of the sun. Calm. The dark clouds are gone. You close your eyes. Birds are singing. A gentle breeze kisses your face. Inhale. The ground smells fresh, ready for new growth. It smells like hope. You smile because <b><span style="font-size: large;">you are still standing</span></b>. There is some rebuilding to do; things may never look the same - they are not supposed to. It's a new beginning"</i></blockquote>
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Nothing says 'new beginnings' like a baby. This little guy is the delight of our home! With new beginnings come miracles and I'm so grateful for the miracles that came along with this little boy. More stories for another time! <br />
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Our house is a whirlwind of diapers and paci's and laughter and drool. So much silliness happening just to get a smile. It's wonderfully ridiculous! It is precious to see the love affair between my girl and her son. He adores her. The way he looks longingly after her when she leaves the room ... Or how he tenderly touches her face. I die!! God's grace has been abundant during this huge change in our family.<br />
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Life doesn't stop, even for the birth of a first grandson. My daughter entered her senior year and jumped, or shall I say pirouetted, her way back into ballet. She may be a mommy herself, but she is still my girl and watching her dance fills up my momma heart. You know the feeling - whether it's football or tennis or karate, or clogging or yodeling - it's a pleasure watching our kids do something they love.<br />
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Birthdays, anniversaries, holidays have come as scheduled in the midst of all the change - imagine that! Friendships have been strengthened and new ones have been forged. We celebrated the one year anniversary of my mom's kidney transplant. A nephew graduated from Air Force Basic Training. We traveled to San Antonio (grueling drive!) to watch the ceremony. And I left a piece of me there. Literally. We had to extend our trip because I had to have emergency gall bladder surgery. Oy! I was well taken care of and am recovering well. Some people will do anything to get a few more days of vacation! Obviously I'm not beneath donating an organ! <br />
<br />
Through the challenges and changes in life, I am reminded of how very much I need Jesus. Every. Single. Day. I am learning what it means to <i>r<span class="text 1Thess-5-16" id="en-ESV-29621">ejoice always,</span> <span class="text 1Thess-5-17" id="en-ESV-29622"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>pray without ceasing,</span> </i><span class="text 1Thess-5-18" id="en-ESV-29623"><i>and give thanks in all circumstances</i> (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).</span><br />
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God is still good. I am still standing. And it is well with my soul. <br />
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How has God been faithful in this season of your life? I'd love it if you'd share in the comments, or just let me know that you're still here!<br />
<br />
Let's talk again soon, yes? We'll meet here - I'll save a seat for you!<br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Love, </span></b></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Liv </span></b></i></span></span></div>
Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-78620291475393167252015-07-28T15:36:00.000-07:002015-07-28T15:37:59.874-07:00On becoming a grandmother ...<blockquote class="tr_bq">
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<em>I miss meeting up with you here in this little corner of the Internet, so I'm poppin' in for a second to let you know I'm still here! I can't wait to write more often, but I'm allowing myself time to adjust to the changes in our home and I'm giving all my spare moments to loving on my sweet grandson.</em></blockquote>
You guys. I can still hardly believe it. Me, a grandmother?! Part of me - the part that is in love with this beautiful little guy - fully embraces it. That's the easy part. The other part - the part that doesn't want to be/feel/sound old yet - cringes when she hears the G-word. <br />
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With the changes comes all sorts of emotions. There is a lot of HARD in our situation. There's the mourning of part of my daughter's childhood and of some of the plans for myself that I've had to put on the shelf for a little while longer. There's finding the balance of roles as I mother my daughter while she mother's her son. Scotty and I have to be intentional about finding space for one another in our new routines. I need to find space for myself and the things I love again. <br />
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In the middle of the HARD there are many gifts. I get to snuggle with sweet Jax every day and breathe in his fresh-from-heaven baby scent. And those smiles ... they melt my heart! I am completely smitten!<br />
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So it's alright - call me granny! I've decided that I am going to rock this gig!<br />
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Much love,</div>
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<em><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;">Liv</span></em></div>
Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-55385402644402432072015-04-15T13:58:00.000-07:002015-04-15T13:58:29.227-07:00Sacred Moments<div>
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Getting to know Jaxson has been heavenly. Sometimes I look around at the baby swing and blankets, the diapers and tiny socks throughout the house and marvel that there is a baby living there. I can't think of a time when my daughter has been more beautiful to
me. Watching her care for her little boy with such tenderness makes my
heart so full and so proud. </div>
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Every morning I tiptoe into my girl's room and snatch Jaxson for morning snuggles on the couch before I head off to work. I place my finger into his tiny hand and marvel at how small his fingers are. I sit there all in love and wonder, as I pray over him. If I'm lucky he'll wake up and we stare at each other. This morning he was sound asleep and I watched him make faces - so many expressions! I could do this all day, but I had to get myself out the door. Reluctantly I got up to carry him back to his momma ... and he woke up.<br />
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Isn't it delicious how a baby wakes up? Their eyes move beneath closed eyelids and then one eye opens and closes again quickly. Both eyes open and close. Blink. Blink. Blink. There's a grunt and a long stretch. He looks around and then he sees me. "Good morning, love," I say. And he smiles at me. A big wide smile! I keep talking just to make sure it's not a fluke and he smiles again! How can I <i>not </i>be in love?! I immediately think that I must find my phone to get a picture, but I don't want to look away, so I decide not to.</div>
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My phone is loaded with pictures and videos. I want to capture every moment. I don't want to miss a single thing. But really I didn't, did I? As I drove to work I realized what a sacred moment I had with my grandson. I don't need a picture to prove that it happened.<br />
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I wonder how many sacred moments get lost in the scramble to find my phone? Maybe some moments aren't meant to be photographed. Those moments when my husband grabs my hand from across the table. When my daughter and I have a beautiful conversation. When my son hugs me and says, "I love you, momma". Or when my nephew gives a dimpled smile as he walks over to kiss my cheek. Life is so full of tiny sacred moments that are meant just for me. Just for you. Some of them are too precious for Instagram. They are not meant to be captured, but to capture you and wrap you up in the goodness of God.<br />
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So go ahead. Take lovely pictures. Fill up Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with your loves. I love the ways we can share our lives with one another. But don't worry if you can't photograph some of the best moments. Because sometimes those moments are gifts just for you.</div>
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Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-7511168911980566372015-04-07T18:36:00.001-07:002015-04-07T18:36:55.838-07:0070 things I want to teach my daughter about motherhood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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1) That feeling you had the first time you saw him? That's exactly how I felt about you. Still do. Always will.<br />
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2) Nobody prays the way a momma does. Bring him to Jesus every day. </div>
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3) Let him see you talk to Jesus. Let him hear you talking about Jesus. Let him see you walk with Jesus.<br />
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4) Your faith is the best heritage you can give him.<br />
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5) YOU are exactly the mom he needs. Just as you are. <br />
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6) You don't have to prove anything to anybody. You are capable.<br />
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7) It's okay to not know everything. Don't be afraid to ask. <br />
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8) Cleanliness is not next to godliness. Sometimes you have to leave the mess. <br />
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9) Little boys get dirty. Their play is their work and they work hard.<br />
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10) You don't have to do all the things. Do what you can, when you can, with what you have.<br />
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11) Do one thing for yourself everyday, no matter how small <br />
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12) Keep dancing. Your passions are important. <br />
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13) Make time for your friendships. Sometimes this is hard work. So worth it. <br />
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14) Drink lots of water and eat well. <br />
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15) Make time to take care of your health.<br />
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16) Learn something new. It's exhilarating.<br />
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17) Read to him every day.<br />
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<br />
18) Read one more story. Let him splash in the tub. Give him one more kiss goodnight. These years go by much too quickly.<br />
<br />
19) When you are frustrated, remember that love is kind. Kindness wins.<br />
<br />
20) Stand your ground. Children are stubborn sometimes, but you are the boss always.<br />
<br />
21) Teach him how to work. <br />
<br />
22) Teach him about money. <br />
<br />
23) Teach him how to give. <br />
<br />
24) He wants to know that you are proud of him.<br />
<br />
25) Talk to him even when he won't talk to you.<br />
<br />
26) Hug and kiss him even if he gets embarrassed. <br />
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<br />
27) Trust your gut. <br />
<br />
28) Time spent together is better than a new toy.<br />
<br />
29) Family is a gift. Teach him that it is important to love and support one another.<br />
<br />
30) Take him outside every day. Let him run, jump, climb and yell. He'll sleep good at night.<br />
<br />
31) He's gonna skin his knees. It's ok. Little boys are tuff and your kisses are magical.<br />
<br />
32) Mommy's are super heroes. What you do is important. Every. Little. Thing. <br />
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<br />
33) It is more important for you to be fully present than to fight for perfection. Present over perfect.<br />
<br />
34) Always plan ahead, but hold your plans loosely - things often don't go as planned with children.<br />
<br />
35) Go slow. Never rush. Hurry steals joy. <br />
<br />
36) Don't try to do everything. Better to do a few things and do them well then to do everything, but poorly. <br />
<br />
37) You will feel like your not getting through to him. Keep reminding him. Those reminders will become habits when he is older. <br />
<br />
38) It's just a season. No matter what stage he is in - this too shall pass.<br />
<br />
39) Motherhood is the hardest job you'll ever have. <br />
<br />
40) It is also the best and most fulfilling thing you'll ever do.<br />
<br />
41) You won't always do it perfectly, but there is more than enough grace. God makes up for our lack.<br />
<br />
42) Say you're sorry.<br />
<br />
43) Laugh with him. A lot.<br />
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44) Don't tease him. Let him know that you will never, ever make fun of him. He is safe with you.<br />
<br />
45) Teach him that home is a safe place where he is always loved, accepted and where he can be himself.<br />
<br />
46) The mom uniform (sweats and a pony tail) is comfy, but sometimes you gotta do something to make yourself feel pretty. <br />
<br />
47) Emergency chocolate stash and a closet. Enough said. <br />
<br />
48) Coffee.<br />
<br />
49) Go to bed on time.<br />
<br />
50) Make rest a habit.</div>
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51) Wake up a few minutes early. That quiet time before he wakes up makes ALL the difference.<br />
<br />
52) Don't neglect your time with the Lord. You need His direction daily.<br />
<br />
53) Obey the Holy Spirit. He will let you know what you need to know. This is your secret weapon!<br />
<br />
54) Keep singing. Always let him hear you sing.<br />
<br />
55) Introduce him to good music.<br />
<br />
56) Never let him see you disagree with his dad. If you must disagree, do it in private.<br />
<br />
57) Never talk to him badly about his dad. He should never feel like he has to choose sides.<br />
<br />
58) Beware of mommy guilt. Comparison and self-expectations are your enemies.<br />
<br />
59) He is a gift. Always loved and wanted. He was never a mistake.<br />
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60) Teach him to look people in the eye, and to speak when spoken to.<br />
<br />
61) Teach him that life isn't always fair, but that God is always good and there is always something to be thankful for.<br />
<br />
62) Teach him to stand up for the underdog.<br />
<br />
63) Teach him to respect you - you are the first woman in his life. You are his greatest teacher.<br />
<br />
64) God has good things for both of you.<br />
<br />
65) I love you so much.<br />
<br />
66) I am proud of you.<br />
<br />
67) You are a great momma.<br />
<br />
68) You can do hard things.<br />
<br />
69) He is going to be ok.<br />
<br />
70) You are going to be ok.<br />
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<i></i><br />
<i>This list falls short, I know, and I'm still trying to learn much of this myself. </i><i>I didn't expect to share these thoughts with my daughter for many more years. It wasn't too long ago that I wrote this post for her: </i><a href="http://livgracefull.blogspot.com/2013/08/82-things-i-want-to-tell-my-daughter.html"><i>82 Things I Want To Tell My Daughter Before Tomorrow</i></a><i>. I must say that I am proud of her for making the brave choice to carry Jaxson and to raise him. Mommy and baby are doing wonderfully and we couldn't be more in love! Thank you for your kind thoughts and prayers. I love how God has loved us through you.</i><br />
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Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-4518936977085680172015-03-11T15:33:00.000-07:002015-03-12T11:49:52.349-07:00When: a letter to my husband<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<br />
Scotty,<br />
<br />
When you asked me to marry you we were young and full of hopes and dreams.<br />
<br />
When we were poor we didn't know it because we were rich in love.<br />
<br />
When we had our children we were still poor; still full of hopes and dreams, not only for ourselves, but for them too.<br />
<br />
When we suffered loss, we felt like our hopes and dreams were yanked out from under us, but we clung to one another.<br />
<br />
When we hurt one another we lost a little bit of ourselves; we began to walk in different directions. We almost lost each other.<br />
<br />
Then we realized that love is a choice and WE are worth fighting for.<br />
<br />
When life didn't turn out as expected we each handled it differently. You patiently rode the waves and emotions with me. <br />
<br />
When I look back I see -<br />
That we were never ever really poor.<br />
Loss was really our gain.<br />
Forgiveness brought hope.<br />
And unexpected detours brought sweet blessings.<br />
<br />
When you asked me to marry you I didn't realize how quickly our hopes and dreams would become our today; how different they would look then we had imagined. God is always good. Life has been ... interesting. And I am glad you are the one I get to live it with.<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><em></em><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><em></em><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">All my love,</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Olivia</span></em></div>
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<em></em><blockquote class="tr_bq">
<em>This post was supposed to be for Five-Minute Friday a couple of weeks ago - the weekend of our anniversary. I didn't finish it in time and so didn't publish it. You know how there are moments when you are overwhelmed with gratefulness? That. Life is life and we are in a season where some days it seems the only words we say to one another are, "Bye, have a good day" and "Good night, I love you". Often we don't make time for US. The thing about Scotty is that he just wants to make sure I'm good. And if that means he makes dinner or throws the laundry in (which is <strong>always</strong>, lately), or rubbing my shoulders - he does it. Without my asking, even if I am in a bad mood. <strong>Especially</strong> if I am in a bad mood. In the middle of our frustrations with each other's quirks, anger over this or that, and too little time for one another - it is good to know that the other will still be there. That's the point of this post. All the <strong>stuff </strong>is what makes up US and I like US. It reminds me that no matter what is happening right now, in the end we will be able to look back and see that every season, good or bad, has made up the life that we built together. That is the remarkable thing about marriage. We know that the other is flawed. We hurt one another. We make mistakes. And when we decide to stay anyway, it makes up a love story. It's nothing glamorous. It's just real and messy and beautiful. </em></blockquote>
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Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-75035223456764594502015-02-27T11:23:00.002-07:002015-02-27T11:23:30.836-07:00Five-Minute Friday: Visit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Sometimes I wish we could visit over a cup of coffee. Or tea. I'd totally buy your drink. Or fluff up the pillows on my couch. I could make some of that fancy Teavana tea I just bought. Or I'd love to make you some organic French-pressed coffee, and I always have biscotti. <br />
<br />
I'd ask you how life is. Busy I know. We'd talk about every day things like work or school; about the kids or grandkids. I'd tell you how much I miss running. We'd talk about your latest Pinterest project and I'd show you the <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/43487952627689932/">cute fuzzy wreath I made</a>. Yeah, I know Christmas is over, but you know ... life ... I'm a little behind on stuff!<br />
<br />
You would probably ask me how <a href="http://www.livgracefull.blogspot.com/2015/01/and-all-people-said-amen.html">Celine is and if she is ready for the baby</a>. I'd tell you that she is doing great - just moving a little more slowly and anxious to meet Jaxson.<br />
<br />
If you ask me how I am doing I would tell you that I am a mixture of emotions. Excited to hold and kiss my grandson. Anxious about being her labor coach. It will be hard to see her in pain. I am preparing myself for the next phase: making sure Celine stays on top of her schooling and supporting her as she navigates motherhood. You may be sorry you asked because I may go on about how I am feeling tired and frumpy. This momma needs a long run and a haircut. <br />
<br />
Enough about me. I want to know how your "thing" is going. You know the one. That big decision or the last appointment. The big test or the potty training. The vacation or the planning for the big event. There's so much to catch up on!<br />
<br />
We could talk about Downton Abby, since that's about the only show I'm caught up on. I'd tell you that<a href="http://www.wired.com/2015/02/science-one-agrees-color-dress/"> the dress</a> is white and gold and we'd laugh a lot, I know. <br />
<br />
The time would pass much too quickly and we would promise to not let so much time pass between visits. I'd be sorry to see you go but I'd be smiling because it's always so nice to visit with you!<br />
<br />
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<strong><em><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;">- Liv</span></em></strong></div>
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<br />
This post is part of a link up over<a href="http://katemotaung.com/2015/02/26/five-minute-friday-visit-plus-a-video-interview-a-free-e-book/"> here</a>.<br />
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<br />Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-5932002352326375392015-02-20T11:40:00.000-07:002015-02-20T11:40:45.621-07:00Five-Minute Friday: Open<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Acceptance. We long for it. To be included.<br />
<br />
Acceptance into college; Accepting a proposal.<br />
An award; recognition.<br />
Accepting an invitation.<br />
To a party; to dance<br />
And what greater joy is there than to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior?<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Acceptance can also be very difficult.</span></strong><br />
<br />
Accepting that I will be a grandmother before I am 40 years old.<br />
Accepting that<a href="http://www.livgracefull.blogspot.com/2015/01/and-all-people-said-amen.html"> my daughter will have to grow up too soon.</a><br />
Accepting that <a href="http://www.livgracefull.blogspot.com/2014/03/love-story-part-2-when-he-doesnt-believe.html">my husband and I don't share the same faith.</a><br />
Accepting a broken relationship; that some people may never change.<br />
A diagnosis.<br />
Shoot, let's just cover it all:<br />
Accepting that <span style="font-size: x-large;">life did not turn out as expected.</span><br />
<br />
One thing I have learned: Acceptance does not give something your stamp of approval. Acceptance is simply acknowledging that fact that "it is what it is". Sounds a lot like surrender. Surrender is not all bad, you know. Surrender can be sweet. It's opening my hands and <span style="font-size: x-large;">giving up</span> my despair. It's trusting the God I know is always good. <span style="font-size: x-large;">Why is it I can accept - even <em>expect</em> the good from His hand, yet be so angry and doubtful when things are not so good?</span> <br />
<br />
Now what? Now that we've opened our hands in surrender what do we do next? I know what I won't do. I won't despair. I won't pine. I won't be consumed. Accepting a situation allows me to move forward. May God give us the wisdom to do the next right thing. I can be joyful that God is bringing a precious little boy into our lives. I can watch my daughter's growing belly and acknowledge that something beautiful is happening. I can love my husband and see what a gift he is to me. I can be thankful for the difficult things that have made me real. This. Is. Freedom.<br />
<br />
Will there still be moments of sadness and longing? Of course. <span style="font-size: x-large;">But we don't have to live there anymore.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span>May we always keep our hands open in surrender to the God who has proven Himself to be trust worthy over and over again. <br />
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<em><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">- Liv</span></strong></span></em></div>
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<br />
Mistakes are welcome over <a href="http://katemotaung.com/2015/02/19/five-minute-friday-open/">here</a> where I have linked up with other writers for five minutes (or so) of writing freely on the given prompt.Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-87738659340646261592015-02-13T20:46:00.000-07:002015-02-13T20:46:03.093-07:00Five-Minute Friday: When<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">When I'm older...</span></div>
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When I'm thinner...</div>
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When I have more time; more money...</div>
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When I'm smarter; when the kids are grown...</div>
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'When' robs me of today's opportunities. Somehow 'when' never comes. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">But if I live today; make choices for now, there is no need for when - when becomes today. </span></div>
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This post is part of a link up over <a href="http://katemotaung.com/2015/02/12/five-minute-friday-when/">here</a>. </div>
Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-80758928986093614772015-02-09T15:57:00.000-07:002015-02-09T15:57:48.916-07:00Celebrating a Little Gentleman<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We celebrated a little boy this past weekend. I couldn't be more proud of how his momma has handled her pregnancy with grace and humility. And I couldn't be more grateful for the people who have come along side our family in prayer, love and support. Here is a wordless (almost) picture story of how we celebrated a special little man:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6HwBP39qvVx3anWTf6k5iDFSR_lLG5Y8JEJdk-eeebW8SNNL-IV81rH-fzOuV-ZRZikdeTeoFzp80IrMlidu3iOu86Cje2QwcFDmBa_6mwyThlk7yZevMpJPinyUrIiSqu20mcB2yLI/s1600/photo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6HwBP39qvVx3anWTf6k5iDFSR_lLG5Y8JEJdk-eeebW8SNNL-IV81rH-fzOuV-ZRZikdeTeoFzp80IrMlidu3iOu86Cje2QwcFDmBa_6mwyThlk7yZevMpJPinyUrIiSqu20mcB2yLI/s1600/photo.PNG" height="640" width="601" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mustache rings for the party</td></tr>
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The Food Table</h2>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Photo Booth Fun</h2>
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<h2 align="center">
Gifts</h2>
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Thanks For Coming!</h2>
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It was the best day! </h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0sAcRJJUVx0m2qoaS9XXPlN6RowvhyphenhyphenywHUqSW_ckuti4QIdy5vfTSEHgkW0D-kE_951dbDf9H9Tt26Ae_DyTy9ShqZ8nBOzxRyAi3-4KzWmNJwWPMtg98x8TfyUkoNIEq-qsBqpu9zU/s1600/IMG_2182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0sAcRJJUVx0m2qoaS9XXPlN6RowvhyphenhyphenywHUqSW_ckuti4QIdy5vfTSEHgkW0D-kE_951dbDf9H9Tt26Ae_DyTy9ShqZ8nBOzxRyAi3-4KzWmNJwWPMtg98x8TfyUkoNIEq-qsBqpu9zU/s1600/IMG_2182.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Worn out</td></tr>
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<br />
We are four and a half weeks away from welcoming a precious gift into our lives. Excitement has set in! <span style="font-size: x-large;">Thank you for your kind words and prayers</span>! I am so thankful for the people - YOU - that God has placed in our lives! Oh how He loves!<br />
<strong></strong><span style="color: #741b47;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"></span><strong></strong><div align="center">
<span style="color: #741b47; font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>Love, Liv</em></strong></span></div>
Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-25966893947306661602015-01-15T00:00:00.000-07:002015-01-15T00:10:53.048-07:00And all the people said amenThere is an infant carrier in the back seat of my car. We've set up a crib and we found these adorable little Converse socks.<br />
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Change is coming. Come March, life as we know it will never be the same. See, there's this little boy ...<br />
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We haven't met him yet, but we have heard his heart beat. We watch and wait to see or feel the slightest move and smile giddy when it comes. His name is Jaxson. He is wanted. He is loved. He is my grandson.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. <span class="reftext"></span><span class="highl">I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. </span></i><span class="highl">- Psalm 139:13,14</span></blockquote>
Last March, on my daughter's 16th birthday, I posted <a href="http://www.livgracefull.blogspot.com/2014_03_01_archive.html">this story</a> for her. It begins with the meaning of her middle name, Jenae:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">'God has been gracious' </span></blockquote>
It follows her from birth through her growing up years being told exactly that - God is gracious. The story ends with Celine Jenae as a mother rocking her own baby and telling of God's grace. How could I have known that almost exactly a year later my girl would indeed be rocking her own child?<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We may have been caught off guard, but God was not. He knew that Jaxson would be a part of Celine's story from the beginning. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">God has plans for her little boy.</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; And in Your book were all
written The days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was not
one of them. - Psalm 139:16</i></blockquote>
Although we have had challenges over the past several months, there have also been gifts ...<br />
<br />
- Love and support from family and friends<br />
- The kindness of people around us<br />
- The sweetness of our relationship as mother and daughter during this season <br />
- Watching my girl experience God's grace<br />
- <span style="font-family: inherit;">The resources for young mothers in our area - they have been wonderful!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- I have to say it again - friends. Thank You, Jesus for the women You have placed in my life!</span><br />
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There are so many things to write about. All the feelings. Sometime. We are still walking through it and the truth is, this is my daughter's story. When she is ready.<br />
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Meanwhile, would you say a prayer for our family when we come to mind? Please pray especially for Celine as she navigates motherhood while finishing high school. <br />
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By the way, Celine told me that she looked up the meaning of the name Jaxson.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Scottish: <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>'God has been gracious'</b></span></blockquote>
Amen. Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-3006823334508789632015-01-13T16:24:00.001-07:002015-01-13T16:33:05.805-07:00A drink for weary mommas<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDnCggGYm_Syxoki-L2gD1JAOmz2n1Y41eswUsWU70jEF10CXT5ql_FZWpR6HW-m-vk1fpIhLsgAza20J07269DackP4XWZY4lywEZanDD8DzmDIuntEkCt3zKGBWmfiYt2PciI3nkYs/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDnCggGYm_Syxoki-L2gD1JAOmz2n1Y41eswUsWU70jEF10CXT5ql_FZWpR6HW-m-vk1fpIhLsgAza20J07269DackP4XWZY4lywEZanDD8DzmDIuntEkCt3zKGBWmfiYt2PciI3nkYs/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Olivia Brant</td></tr>
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<br />
This post is for the mommas who are tired. This is for the momma who feels like she is not getting through; that she has failed. This one is for the momma who is begging for a break through; for just a tiny indication that her prayers are being heard. </div>
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Momma, you have invested too much; spent too many sleepless nights in prayer; shed too many tears to give up now. You have fought hard. I know. I know the loneliness you feel. The exasperation. You are just so tired.<br />
<div>
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<div>
Can I gently remind you that you were not meant to carry this? I know <em>I</em> need the reminder. We were not cut out for this. That's right. Stop carrying the weight for being unable to do what only God can do. Only He can change a heart. Only He can heal. Only He can take an impossible situation and make it possible. Is it possible that you are fighting a battle that is not yours? Is it time for you to let go and let God handle this? Watch and see how He is going to work it out. </div>
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I don't know your situation. I do know that nobody will love or pray for your children the way you do. So keep loving them. Keep praying for them. This story isn't over yet.<br />
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<br />
Are you perfect? No. Have you made mistakes? Maybe. I have. Big mistakes. Will you believe me when I say <strong><span style="font-size: large;">you are not a failure</span></strong>? I'm not. Because we are not quitters. We are not alone. We are all facing challenges. I'm right there with you. And God is with us.<br />
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Do you know the story of Hagar in the Bible?<br />
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Hagar and her son Ishmael have been cast out into the wilderness and their supply of food and water have run out. She is in the desert. Can you imagine? Like Arizona in the summer during a drought. She is tired. The hot sun has drained her of all energy. She is alone on this journey with her child and she has no idea how she is going to care for him. Their future is uncertain. <br />
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She is about to give up. She places her son under a bush and goes about a bow's shot away, sobbing. She does not want to watch him die. <br />
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But God hears. <strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">He always hears.</span></strong><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"<em>What is the matter, Hagar? <strong>Do not be afraid</strong>;<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-531Y" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-531Y" title="See cross-reference Y">Y</a>)"></sup> <strong>God has heard</strong> the boy crying as he lies there. Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation</em>.<em>" </em>- Genesis 21:17</blockquote>
Momma. Don't be afraid. God hears you. He hears your children.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<em>Then God opened her eyes<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-533AA" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-533AA" title="See cross-reference AA">AA</a>)"></sup> and she saw a well of water.<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-533AB" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-533AB" title="See cross-reference AB">AB</a>)"></sup> So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. </em>- Genesis 21:19</blockquote>
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">That well was there the whole time</span>.</strong> Hagar had only go a bow's shot further to find it. And to think she almost gave up.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">You and I also have a well.</span> <br />
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"<span class="words-of-christ"><em>If anyone thirsts, let him </em></span><em><span class="words-of-christ">come to me and drink.</span> </em><a data-datatype=""bible+esv"" data-reference=""John 7:38"" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" rel="milestone" style="display: inline-block; height: 1em; width: 0px;"></a><em>Whoever believes in me, as <span class="words-of-christ">the Scripture has said, '</span><span class="words-of-christ">Out of his heart will flow rivers of </span></em><span class="words-of-christ"><em>living water.’” ... </em>- John 7:37-38</span></blockquote>
It's crazy to die of thirst when there is a well within reach. Maybe your eyes are weak today and you can't see beyond your circumstances. Ask God to open them. And then momma, get up, take your children by the hand and lead them to the Water. Love your child. Pray for your child. Point your child to Jesus. <br />
Don't forget the times God has been faithful in the past. He has brought you this far. <span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Drink</strong>.</span><br />
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That well was not Hagar's first encounter with God. He had been faithful to her at another well, about 14 years earlier when she had run away from her mistress Sarai, who had mistreated her. <br />
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<em>Then the angel of the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> told her, “Go back to your mistress and submit to her.” </em><span class="text Gen-16-10" id="en-NIV-392"><em>The angel added, “I will increase your descendants so much that they will be too numerous to count.” </em><span class="text Gen-16-11" id="en-NIV-393"><em>The angel of the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-393T" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-393T" title="See cross-reference T">T</a>)"></sup> also said to her: </em></span><em>“You are now pregnant<span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Gen-16-11">and you will give birth to a son. </span>You shall name him<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-393V" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-393V" title="See cross-reference V">V</a>)"></sup> Ishmael, <span class="indent-1"><span class="text Gen-16-11">for the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> has heard of your misery ..." </span></span></em>- Genesis 16:9-11</span></blockquote>
The encounter meant so much to Hagar that she named the well:<br />
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<em><span class="text Gen-16-13" id="en-NIV-395">She gave this name to the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> who spoke to her: “<strong>You are the God who sees me</strong>,<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-395AA" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-395AA" title="See cross-reference AA">AA</a>)"></sup>” for she said, “I have now seen<sup> </sup>the One who sees me.”<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-395AB" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-395AB" title="See cross-reference AB">AB</a>)"></sup></span> </em><span class="text Gen-16-14" id="en-NIV-396"><em>That is why the well<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-396AC" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-396AC" title="See cross-reference AC">AC</a>)"></sup> was called Beer Lahai Roi;<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-396AD" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-396AD" title="See cross-reference AD">AD</a>)"></sup> it is still there, between Kadesh<sup class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-396AE" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-396AE" title="See cross-reference AE">AE</a>)"></sup> and Bered. - </em>Genesis 16:13, 14</span></blockquote>
You have a God who sees you struggling. He hears your cries. Lift your eyes and go to the well. There is rest for your weary momma heart.Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-90882683642596682652015-01-06T13:55:00.001-07:002015-01-06T13:57:27.564-07:00My word for 2015<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsXWRbf2SnSkjJgmcRFbpBWRvmt0xMjqlBOpsu3EUujAEL2nfEOyNkHzsAe_9XYjusmdrHcp70G2-elk5JydlyJgQjRTj6ZmYSavnNkVkec5J8bkEPBBgrWRqNYyquWbVr3LmOZr5Jt8/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsXWRbf2SnSkjJgmcRFbpBWRvmt0xMjqlBOpsu3EUujAEL2nfEOyNkHzsAe_9XYjusmdrHcp70G2-elk5JydlyJgQjRTj6ZmYSavnNkVkec5J8bkEPBBgrWRqNYyquWbVr3LmOZr5Jt8/s1600/photo.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Olivia Brant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I'm mostly selfish. <br />
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I'm pretty busy trying to keep up with myself, so I often don't notice the needs around me. Oh, I have good intentions. I mean to write that letter. Or make sure I have extra cash handy for the guy holding the sign on the corner. I plan to visit the elderly lady who is lonely. I promised to make cookies for the sweet couple who always remember that I like their home made salsa. But good intentions alone haven't gotten me very far. It didn't take long for me to recognize that my word for 2015 should have something to do with giving.<br />
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It's easy for me to give to somebody I like a lot. I love giving gifts to people I love. It's easy for me to give when it's convenient. "Oh, today's world missions Sunday? Good thing I got $5 back after paying for my Starbucks". I'm not beating myself up here, because even though I'm mostly selfish - I'm mostly nice too. I would just like to be less selfish this year. <br />
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Here's the thing. My family has been given so much recently. I wrote about my mom's kidney transplant this past September. What a priceless gift. Not only that, but people who don't know my mom personally read her story and gave towards her medical fund. Thank you. <em>So much</em>. She is doing well. Her energy has returned and it is wonderful to see her looking and feeling healthy. God is good.<br />
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I have written vaguely about a difficult season I have been through. A season in which our family needed God's grace. If you have ever felt that you have nothing to offer somebody who is going through a hard time. Don't believe it. "How are you doing?" "I'm praying for you." "I love you." Those words were a gift and I needed to hear them. A meal. A hug. Listening. All of it was a gift. <br />
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I'd like to look for more opportunities to give. Whether it's donating a dollar to St. Jude's when I pay for my groceries, or pausing my show to give my full attention to a family member - I'd like to give at every opportunity I can. But rather than writing about ways I give throughout the year, because - well, duh! I want to look for gifts around me and name them. I'd like to take notice of all the good things. Because <em>every good and perfect gift is from above</em>. (James 1:17)<br />
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So my word for 2015 is <span style="font-size: x-large;"><em>Gift</em>.</span><br />
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Would you join me? I think giving is contagious. So is thankfulness. What a wonderful way to spend the year - giving and living thankful! Let's spread it! #GiftLivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-71743938241957188582015-01-03T12:02:00.000-07:002015-01-03T12:02:55.790-07:00FreshSo here we are. 2015. No going back. How have the first few days been?<br />
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I love how God gives us new beginnings on a regular basis. I like how every sunrise means that yesterday is over and a brand new day has arrived with no mistakes in it. Yet. Every week is a chance to eat better or start my exercise routine ... again. Every month brings another milestone; another celebration; another season. And every new year represents hope and opportunity. White snow with no footprints in it yet. A blank page. Fresh soil.<br />
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I hope to run more. Read more. Write more. Learn more. Laugh more.<br />
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I want to memorize more scripture. Clean out closets. Live more simply. I hope to make another attempt at growing a little garden. Key word: attempt - as Scotty rolls his eyes. He tries to convince me every year to buy fake plants. I don't appreciate his lack of confidence that I'm for real going to water it this time!<br />
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Our family will have big changes. Good changes. We will make wonderful memories. I plan to enjoy my coffee and watch more sunrises. I want to spend time out doors and explore places I've never seen in our area. I want this to be the year that we finally go to Disney Land!<br />
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I may or may not accomplish one or more things on my list. They are all good things, but life may get busy or I may get distracted and spend too many weekends watching Friends (yay for Netflix!), instead of going outside. Even if I don't reach my goal weight or go to Disney Land, even if this year is full of challenges - and no doubt it will have some - one thing I am sure of:<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">God is in control and every little thing is going to be okay.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When in doubt? I have to but <b>remember the times He has been faithful</b> in the past. When I am disappointed in myself, I will need to <b>remind myself that His mercies are new every morning</b>. And equally as important, I need to <b>live thankful</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>"Morning by morning new mercies I see. All I have needed thy hand hath provided. Great is your faithfulness, Lord, unto me."</i></span> - Thomas Obediah Chisholm</blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, dream big for 2015. Make goals and plans. Take the first step towards that thing you've always wanted to do. And if things don't work out exactly as planned - God already wrote a fresh start for tomorrow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>May 2015 be a sweet adventure!</b></span></span>Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-61687980900571944832014-12-30T20:42:00.003-07:002014-12-30T20:57:51.723-07:00"Cannon Baaaalll!"<div style="text-align: center;">
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Remember when we were eight years old and could spend the whole day in the pool? The mom's would soak their feet at the edge and talk while we practiced jumping in or diving for those bright colored diving sticks. I learned to do handstands in between underwater tea parties and games of Marco Polo. Our mom's would have to threaten to get us out of the pool to eat lunch and then torture us by making us wait 30 minutes before getting back in, "or else you'll get a cramp and drown".<br />
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Remember that one boy? He'd taunt us with endless splashing, enjoying the squeals and screams as we covered our faces. Finally he'd get out of the pool and we'd go back to our giggling and games. Then you'd hear it. Running feet. Mom's calling out to "walk before you slip and fall!". And then the yell, "cannon baaaalll!", as he plunged into the pool, arms wrapped around his knees, bottom first. We'd gasp and quickly move away from the tsunami. The moms would scold as they scurried away from the edge, grabbing towels or hovering over food and babies. The splash disrupted the entire pool, reaching as far as the picnic table.<br />
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2014 was a canon ball. I was enjoying my time in the pool and the warmth of the sun. There were celebrations and parties; the Grand Canyon and Utah and Colorado; family and friends and good food. Calm waters. <br />
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The tsunami of 2014 disrupted my pool party and left me kicking and flailing, trying to regain my footing. Gasping and struggling for air, I was in over my head. The waves seemed to keep coming, shoving me to and fro. I couldn't find which way was up and I did not know what to do. Spent. Weary. I was clinging only to what seemed to be a worn thread of a promise: "God is always good and you are never alone".<br />
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And then one morning, the sun came up.<br />
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Have you ever seen the sunrise after a storm? After a night of howling wind, pounding thunder, and pulling covers over your head, the morning wakes to stillness. The earth is mushy; branches and washed up debris litter the ground. But look up. <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Always. Look. Up.</b></span> </span>The sky is beautifully painted a mixture of oranges and pinks, promising the arrival of the sun. Calm. The dark clouds are gone. You close your eyes. Birds are singing. A gentle breeze kisses your face. Inhale. The ground smells fresh, ready for new growth. It smells like hope. You smile because <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">you are still standing</span></b>. There is some rebuilding to do; things may never look the same - they are not supposed to. It's a new beginning. <br />
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We can't focus on the hurts and mistakes and failures that are behind
us. We can only fall forward until suddenly we discover we are running
again. I couldn't be happier to leave 2014 behind. The waters have
washed away the old and the new is coming. And it is going to be good. </div>
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<i>"...But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us."<span class="p"><br /></span></i></blockquote>
Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-9014041772417993732014-12-22T21:36:00.000-07:002014-12-22T21:38:59.983-07:00All Things ChristmasHi there.<br />
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It feels like it's been ages since I've talked to you! <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">How have you been? </span>How<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> are we only a few days away from Christmas?! I sincerely</span> hope all is well and that you are enjoying the Season. I also hope that you have been able to slow and really soak in the glorious beauty of why we are celebrating!<br />
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I have been good. Really. I feel that I am ready to walk into what the future holds for our family. It is going to be a great future. I am amazed at how God takes our mess and brings joy and blessing and beauty from it. He is something. I love Him!<br />
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It feels awkward just launching into a blog post that's all seriousness after all this time, so I thought I'd share something light about some of the things I'm loving right now. Warning: lots of pictures!<br />
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First off! <b>Christmas decorating! </b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkXZ2Zc5yFwzq8IiF3OBKoVS-0pNYvYl9Fyy_QPPQLlByFWxDUHvLuqTQ9Wg3IqkFfTnEWPdGfjP0l4daWyswDY597Z44NS85Gdrd08xzI7P9407jm72je2rK4jx64AMsnV2GiTthvCw/s640/blogger-image-1483178535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkXZ2Zc5yFwzq8IiF3OBKoVS-0pNYvYl9Fyy_QPPQLlByFWxDUHvLuqTQ9Wg3IqkFfTnEWPdGfjP0l4daWyswDY597Z44NS85Gdrd08xzI7P9407jm72je2rK4jx64AMsnV2GiTthvCw/s400/blogger-image-1483178535.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">A day spent rearranging furniture and shopping my home for a new look is a lovely one! Did I ever tell you that I used to take interior design courses? Yeah. I just never finished. Sadness. I had/have so much to learn. This book to the rescue:</span></span></div>
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<i>The Nesting Place</i> by Myquillyn Smith has so many great pictures and reminders that it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful! But I'm getting side-tracked. Back to Christmas decorating! </div>
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I had the most fun with the entry. I added a wintery ribbon to a spring wreath and found the perfect spot for our Jesse Tree!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWLHx8mlOo-hiVTuTGjHuPRJ3rVZef21l-dZCbbRwC9u7xCZ0Y5KMeSYl7cEcNI99itirz46E0lF6u-rkCLwu9xxQA3A5rxaqRk2FPzpV2V0iqbmRuBwQjysFbLeiI8nuEEyduEUDVDM/s640/blogger-image--113912007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWLHx8mlOo-hiVTuTGjHuPRJ3rVZef21l-dZCbbRwC9u7xCZ0Y5KMeSYl7cEcNI99itirz46E0lF6u-rkCLwu9xxQA3A5rxaqRk2FPzpV2V0iqbmRuBwQjysFbLeiI8nuEEyduEUDVDM/s400/blogger-image--113912007.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I hung this branch above the TV. </div>
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At first it seemed kind of silly, but now I think it will stay there for a while. It's from a tree out back and has been sitting in a corner begging for a purpose all year! I strung a pom garland from last Christmas and hung adorable gold and white gift tags I found in the dollar section at Target. Love it!</div>
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This star was a last moment purchase for $8 bucks at Marshall's. </div>
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It was folded up and I had no idea how enormous it was or how much I was going to like it. So worth it!</div>
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The lighting makes the right sight of this photo dark, but ...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXfRz6Vh7ILntVJILraWdFSl_Y95JOKdDHjoumNnwtP-C6atOnwkQBXPwnW9gtJRDjUfTuUwj20dBQL-4QBzVtLHqoMU5aQxm2sY8H9R92MmYk_chuAZfvsF2TG69ciNaV-ZxUBH3wDno/s640/blogger-image--1090416348.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXfRz6Vh7ILntVJILraWdFSl_Y95JOKdDHjoumNnwtP-C6atOnwkQBXPwnW9gtJRDjUfTuUwj20dBQL-4QBzVtLHqoMU5aQxm2sY8H9R92MmYk_chuAZfvsF2TG69ciNaV-ZxUBH3wDno/s400/blogger-image--1090416348.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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... the light streaming in through the window is so lovely! I love mornings!</div>
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I got the idea for this paper wreath from The Nester's blog (Myquillyn Smith) last year: <br />
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I found an old Christmas song book at Goodwill and hot glued the pages into cones and then glued them around a round foam floral form (I'm sure you could use cardboard). The burlap flower was just a final touch I added this year. Total cost: about $5!</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Music! </b>One must listen to Christmas music while decorating! I love the classics - Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole. My playlist also includes Michael Buble, Josh Groban and Il Divo. I also love Zooey Deschanel's "A Very She and Him Christmas."</span></div>
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<b>Books!</b> Here's what I'm reading:</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bridge-Haven-Francine-Rivers/dp/1414368186/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419307195&sr=8-1&keywords=bridge+to+haven">Bridge to Haven</a> by Francine Rivers was on my last reading list. I am reading it again with Celine. She doesn't love to read, but doesn't mind taking turns reading aloud. Whatever it takes! </div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Greatest-Gift-Unwrapping-Christmas/dp/1414387083">The Greatest Gift</a> Advent Devotional by Ann Voskamp has been exactly what this girl has needed during this busy season. </div>
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Celine and I just finished reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Lets-All-Be-Brave-Everything/dp/031033795X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419307234&sr=8-1&keywords=lets+all+be+brave">Let's All Be Brave</a> by Annie Downs. I love Annie! I want to hang out with her and be her friend! </div>
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I also started reading the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-Year-Chronological-Bible-NIV/dp/1414359934/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1419307264&sr=1-1&keywords=one+year+chronological+bible">One-Year chronological Bible</a>. I know, it's a little late in the year and I'm catching the end of the story, but it's kinda the best part! </div>
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<b>Hot drinks! </b>We all know I love coffee. It will always be my first love, but these are also favorites:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXchRBdLTVM2u7-atLoAWSG34lwcUWCyYVQbHVDrJCDsd3Xo2jq_1Y-8oHn5qJngqURLTl_hjCNgoKr1Jm6UVCzI0WGWeASrU2n0_EPykud2m9j7k5bFDaUYOC_peuodIpCT7jxUfpSzQ/s640/blogger-image-1052461301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXchRBdLTVM2u7-atLoAWSG34lwcUWCyYVQbHVDrJCDsd3Xo2jq_1Y-8oHn5qJngqURLTl_hjCNgoKr1Jm6UVCzI0WGWeASrU2n0_EPykud2m9j7k5bFDaUYOC_peuodIpCT7jxUfpSzQ/s400/blogger-image-1052461301.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Abuelita hot chocolate. It is so chocolate-ee and cinnamon-ee and perfect! Something about melting chocolate chunks in hot milk on the stove feels so homey! Heehee! I don't know if I can add any more "ee's"! <br />
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Wassail is a yummy cider drink and it makes the house smell so delicious!<br />
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Speaking of hot drinks: Alas it is cold season. So far I have managed to stay healthy, but Scotty is home resting as I type this, so I've started drinking Emergen-C twice a day. I also take a mixture of cinnamon and local honey (1 tablespoon of honey and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon) - a spoonful 2-3 times a day. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_gNH6kROJTTWJmgwv0fYL5tDc5h7-yCTBzzbn8_ez2lkjTvGqJNr4yLxGwrqOPp8nI9_XNuE3dGfttmm8KpbMgWxAmQ_A4U25JJClTdj0U7ItNjpEQ1iqDu-iecNls6Tc77v30cJ4DU/s640/blogger-image--1874342457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_gNH6kROJTTWJmgwv0fYL5tDc5h7-yCTBzzbn8_ez2lkjTvGqJNr4yLxGwrqOPp8nI9_XNuE3dGfttmm8KpbMgWxAmQ_A4U25JJClTdj0U7ItNjpEQ1iqDu-iecNls6Tc77v30cJ4DU/s400/blogger-image--1874342457.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hot tea with lemon and honey is so comforting this time of year and so soothing on a sore throat!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcZnBhSw1Crtgph4tzE8Ixg0RnDV_FSZsVU8-TjELGJbhiryN_a6_bwWdVEN23XjtMY9UE0RGPRQceyvd1xnbAxtzu8A1tAbOuv7_0v5CuuSupaKDadYH1ehrqd0bQQNlbWaut3XFLv1g/s640/blogger-image-1458181631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcZnBhSw1Crtgph4tzE8Ixg0RnDV_FSZsVU8-TjELGJbhiryN_a6_bwWdVEN23XjtMY9UE0RGPRQceyvd1xnbAxtzu8A1tAbOuv7_0v5CuuSupaKDadYH1ehrqd0bQQNlbWaut3XFLv1g/s400/blogger-image-1458181631.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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What are your cold remedies?</div>
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<b>Making Stuff!</b> I got the idea for this wreath from the book I mentioned above, The Nesting Place. It's made of plastic spoons! So easy! <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2011/07/plastic-spoon-laurel-wreath.html">Here's</a> a link to The Nester's blog with the instructions.<br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jDKizKDNfZDvpVuMyhvlaHj08_W48rD2Cz4Fkyj8PUESPDCB-NKhuMdy9nThRbD7nRzH5Z7kznonToAxG2Qh_LqXf5J_WfZePH5JLXZn9ojxhnIIzeOXI1cg1qzqDDaeBdXPfbN5mpw/s640/blogger-image--1048362577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jDKizKDNfZDvpVuMyhvlaHj08_W48rD2Cz4Fkyj8PUESPDCB-NKhuMdy9nThRbD7nRzH5Z7kznonToAxG2Qh_LqXf5J_WfZePH5JLXZn9ojxhnIIzeOXI1cg1qzqDDaeBdXPfbN5mpw/s400/blogger-image--1048362577.jpg" width="300" /></a></b></div>
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This picture frame was a Pinterest project. I painted over the glass of an old picture frame with chalkboard paint and searched Pinterest for what I wanted to write on it. </div>
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbF5b3Xaa4Sv61P08QPfukgQ96HaZ6_4u5s2PRvJKIMFPC6LnGb8RW68-E37QaZvJ3KVtR4dE36fOWUBzIRyjQ2LQfiZj8NSvczoh-RNPzSe1SJakm5sawEIRYHJm5l3KHk_L1NtJpRk0/s640/blogger-image--2033321777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbF5b3Xaa4Sv61P08QPfukgQ96HaZ6_4u5s2PRvJKIMFPC6LnGb8RW68-E37QaZvJ3KVtR4dE36fOWUBzIRyjQ2LQfiZj8NSvczoh-RNPzSe1SJakm5sawEIRYHJm5l3KHk_L1NtJpRk0/s400/blogger-image--2033321777.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></div>
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I also love making this simmering potpourri, using oranges and apples. You can also use cranberries instead of apples. Slice them and toss in a pot with 2 cinnamon sticks and a few whole cloves. Cover with water and simmer on the stove, adding more water as it evaporates. I've used the same mixture for 2-3 days. </div>
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6JUEvsPSIU5pCOXW6hrPtaTBHVSxaC9_C8PHLuBBb-MU83thHjlVb-BM0ORPzru-79KqAB4A7MjE1EcgV_InUs4goVXv4sG1pes0eRmQ-UskM60CrZyJy7cfSz6ged_FRC3GZW3V3Ls0/s640/blogger-image-940493802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6JUEvsPSIU5pCOXW6hrPtaTBHVSxaC9_C8PHLuBBb-MU83thHjlVb-BM0ORPzru-79KqAB4A7MjE1EcgV_InUs4goVXv4sG1pes0eRmQ-UskM60CrZyJy7cfSz6ged_FRC3GZW3V3Ls0/s400/blogger-image-940493802.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBi3E2sDuYLKG72g5ZR-kj33RrauuEzPzduVZ00YqM2Di6Es3wzxJDH0rjUvnRqpb41db8nIsLHu2s5SaqS3ZzedxThq9LDdO2DMs_bTlTUXKt_lkrhGHKIXPHIbavm3-WXU2B62isSAU/s640/blogger-image-193755104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBi3E2sDuYLKG72g5ZR-kj33RrauuEzPzduVZ00YqM2Di6Es3wzxJDH0rjUvnRqpb41db8nIsLHu2s5SaqS3ZzedxThq9LDdO2DMs_bTlTUXKt_lkrhGHKIXPHIbavm3-WXU2B62isSAU/s400/blogger-image-193755104.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b>Products I've discovered! </b>Well, not <i>invented</i> discovered because I'm not that smart, but <i>found</i> discovered!</div>
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I found these Mrs. Meyers Clean Day soy candles on an end cap in the holiday section at Target. I bought one for all of my friends for Christmas this year. Shh! Don't tell! Celine loves the green one (Iowa Pine), but my favorite is the orange (Orange Clove). The pink one is cranberry scented. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVcWHrEKB3eXQfB5MMUm8GaT98wNKgpxVN4ux9v00-ySGQlBndqSoz0n5Z6LabRUrhnvmd-OHAe8vhrr3ZvPnv1I86ywb_y0a3knb5FinVRTT309rXu_G4SftcbFc1BElJD7bEPQLS70M/s640/blogger-image-700988570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVcWHrEKB3eXQfB5MMUm8GaT98wNKgpxVN4ux9v00-ySGQlBndqSoz0n5Z6LabRUrhnvmd-OHAe8vhrr3ZvPnv1I86ywb_y0a3knb5FinVRTT309rXu_G4SftcbFc1BElJD7bEPQLS70M/s400/blogger-image-700988570.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Okay, so maybe I've been hiding under a rock and you all know about these already, but have you tried Jamberry nail wraps? I love them! Scotty's cousin sent me a sample and it was so easy to put on and lasted for two weeks! I rarely paint my nails because it chips off so quickly. I'm thinking this is going to solve all of my problems! Well, probably not <i>all</i> of them, but at least my nails will be cute!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSSJRkPi0jzeu_k3YT6TRrD-eEu4X-i0WHBEdB_UNe4qrSEetbWLHZ5pq08pJ_pmmiluxostCV1rXuiL_546ul23o6QYbVymsCBwLf0DYHk75oKOjhVL5H8mB0GnP1oRfAVh2Qb9spUg/s640/blogger-image--1604343237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSSJRkPi0jzeu_k3YT6TRrD-eEu4X-i0WHBEdB_UNe4qrSEetbWLHZ5pq08pJ_pmmiluxostCV1rXuiL_546ul23o6QYbVymsCBwLf0DYHk75oKOjhVL5H8mB0GnP1oRfAVh2Qb9spUg/s400/blogger-image--1604343237.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here are a few pictures of some more of my favorite Christmas-ee things:<br />
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I knew the Star Wars guys would be bell-ringing at WalMart, so I took my nephew to put some money in the pot and see some cool characters.</div>
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He was in awe of Darth Vador. He's a pretty cool kid because the sand guy is his uncle. Connections.</div>
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I love going to the Christmas parade with my sisters and plus I have an awesome niece and nephew that I like to watch for. </div>
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The Nutcracker has been a part of our family since Celine was three years old. We never miss it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKsdb9iA0y09LU-VlaJOnUwqVGNaJJy5_Vc1GnqpCedGDOgB4X03D_XAwKzIdB8w8q_0Uh_YU1trQNTCQ8F0UHj4d_qB202m3EUHJNUf6TrfIqvJMKaYPop_DVickZm3C2NLUK41VVso/s640/blogger-image-308601168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKsdb9iA0y09LU-VlaJOnUwqVGNaJJy5_Vc1GnqpCedGDOgB4X03D_XAwKzIdB8w8q_0Uh_YU1trQNTCQ8F0UHj4d_qB202m3EUHJNUf6TrfIqvJMKaYPop_DVickZm3C2NLUK41VVso/s640/blogger-image-308601168.jpg" /></a></div>
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This is the second year for our Jesse tree. I am so loving this new tradition. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl53DIYNpmmyhiOno0wbU_91X-PFGfG4X9I9LbUmHB4x-eaCb1boQp4l6qHZb7SnehX5H35Q5RgIbkh25JlmFwyvZmy8VvMbt3VbuajsR4UQDmSM6LDscPu3zoSZa5lh4qppxZkEv0qas/s640/blogger-image-530035267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl53DIYNpmmyhiOno0wbU_91X-PFGfG4X9I9LbUmHB4x-eaCb1boQp4l6qHZb7SnehX5H35Q5RgIbkh25JlmFwyvZmy8VvMbt3VbuajsR4UQDmSM6LDscPu3zoSZa5lh4qppxZkEv0qas/s400/blogger-image-530035267.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Spending time with my people is my all time year-round favorite!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Disney on Ice </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpz1yGQn5lvJBedOLt5L-mUJj0FPEGWcZVx9TQ5cKWsGIpTy8HPjzKUOBd892CfDX40hEcl2vyyNKj6iLcBJ5rXVYuuCsiMA-JboqX6WMFOvXNp_TqSpzoUQruCfvWcTE56nDMJf4QYms/s640/blogger-image--1754551563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpz1yGQn5lvJBedOLt5L-mUJj0FPEGWcZVx9TQ5cKWsGIpTy8HPjzKUOBd892CfDX40hEcl2vyyNKj6iLcBJ5rXVYuuCsiMA-JboqX6WMFOvXNp_TqSpzoUQruCfvWcTE56nDMJf4QYms/s400/blogger-image--1754551563.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A walk with the family</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Game night</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRTwJ4emIF9U1dCAe_lwkzvODHXdSi9ahpklv6vIOZS9JyDfKyuoeR0O8It-c5DktgJcWni0M81TfVO8WLmdbEQl4bl7XP_sG3U_PkORTaBYgcPrPyRnmJQpwPjy-BzIqG4cvs3BrtnAc/s640/blogger-image-890717371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRTwJ4emIF9U1dCAe_lwkzvODHXdSi9ahpklv6vIOZS9JyDfKyuoeR0O8It-c5DktgJcWni0M81TfVO8WLmdbEQl4bl7XP_sG3U_PkORTaBYgcPrPyRnmJQpwPjy-BzIqG4cvs3BrtnAc/s400/blogger-image-890717371.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IHOP with my girl</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCBYZlE4qwmniy3G6vEVFkVgzgxiGNPMtl_XUTDz4YnHPAkrw9DCBzdqFg6n6l1lRsbBg0_h4z_RW8khDDDV2YPvQ93xFdft0sXHu3CxgpkPoeUYp7VOX3YL7O1W31F4oBI82JyGOZyM/s640/blogger-image-190320786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCBYZlE4qwmniy3G6vEVFkVgzgxiGNPMtl_XUTDz4YnHPAkrw9DCBzdqFg6n6l1lRsbBg0_h4z_RW8khDDDV2YPvQ93xFdft0sXHu3CxgpkPoeUYp7VOX3YL7O1W31F4oBI82JyGOZyM/s400/blogger-image-190320786.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting picture updates of this adorable guy </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCqRqCdZIbwg9Z9kvlZ7FDBLzzS9RK2NsWOwZliLCRQeCFKcVpqXDxxPB5dMGw9ZXM-NJi6xb5Ny3yBpA9fXXyg0oaep6Ep0XNx-oXJJFvf9XB3pfmNQCfszSqyNYPOKTXtxD_3R_3ZY/s640/blogger-image-1378144290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBCqRqCdZIbwg9Z9kvlZ7FDBLzzS9RK2NsWOwZliLCRQeCFKcVpqXDxxPB5dMGw9ZXM-NJi6xb5Ny3yBpA9fXXyg0oaep6Ep0XNx-oXJJFvf9XB3pfmNQCfszSqyNYPOKTXtxD_3R_3ZY/s400/blogger-image-1378144290.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging out with my love</td></tr>
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I know I've done a lot of rambling, but we've had a lot of catching up to do! I would love to hear from you! Tell me about some of your Christmas favorites!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Wishing you and your family a lovely Christmas!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Love, </span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Liv</span></i></span></span></div>
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Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-77863756737295874762014-11-13T14:09:00.000-07:002014-11-13T14:09:38.385-07:00It's a Jungle Out There<div style="text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0Fp3yd70Z4Vx9o0UIQfdOCnzpZ4YawsFb7kzrcqS0t_EGyD1Io8bVImPsNPEwvEQMR4bjMxUJveD72VcRB8mvd8SXffRom-ZcH2_XXCXm4Lee57ywQxV0-TE-cRpyffE1Thknn7wwGU/s400/blogger-image--1819480525.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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The past several months have felt as messy as the flower bed in our front yard had become. I sighed at the overgrown bed of weeds in the front yard as Scotty
and I sipped our coffee on the patio. The green elephant ears that once
stood tall with bright red blooms were now dry and half eaten by
pests. The flower pots that once grew basil and lavender were hidden in
a jungle of overgrown wild grass and stickers. Kinda like life some days. Sticky. Dry. Tired. Overwhelming.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwDYPFbSuO8atRNpiJqBcxHzAZsn7-7-zJ7kVswZ-3pa8bUO8F_PpZBO4LK-MYtwYUvOST9Vj87IKia7BvyZahUvas0nBE9ZT9gc6xLRSbUEmdeYVc88U-GUXW7XXUpt5wCq1lxxKrs9Y/s1600/coffeewiththenister.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwDYPFbSuO8atRNpiJqBcxHzAZsn7-7-zJ7kVswZ-3pa8bUO8F_PpZBO4LK-MYtwYUvOST9Vj87IKia7BvyZahUvas0nBE9ZT9gc6xLRSbUEmdeYVc88U-GUXW7XXUpt5wCq1lxxKrs9Y/s320/coffeewiththenister.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBRRdhjAfGjCNtxUTQChLJBHMtSHzTifoktIaXdyqsD1Y9n7y1ibYPH6_gII6raZB9haoQ27zS2SGdltQyCbLuJJSy2P6aaR1vg9MLxbfcW6qH1FQYgWM6Hg7WcVQzmGZcsLdENADY6c/s1600/IMG_4089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBRRdhjAfGjCNtxUTQChLJBHMtSHzTifoktIaXdyqsD1Y9n7y1ibYPH6_gII6raZB9haoQ27zS2SGdltQyCbLuJJSy2P6aaR1vg9MLxbfcW6qH1FQYgWM6Hg7WcVQzmGZcsLdENADY6c/s400/IMG_4089.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I put my headphones on
and spent the morning watering the ground to soften the dirt. It was
just me, my thoughts and my music. Sometimes you have to shut out all the
noise and water the dry, thirsty soil of your heart. I spent the time praying and drenching myself in music that reminded me that God is always good and I am never forsaken. A few hours later, the flower bed looked clean and fresh and my heart was a little lighter.<br />
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The circumstances I have found myself in have humbled me deeply and have brought me to my
knees. Sometimes life doesn't turn out as expected and we are forced to
adjust our sails. There have been
hard-getting-out-of-bed days and I-can't/don't-want-to-do-it-anymore
days. Then there have been days that I have found myself so deeply
grateful for the people God has placed in my life during this season. I
want those days to happen more often. It is a choice, you know.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLcfu7JpfnlN8sm0JAZaUX-VZrFPMn9SkB6x9A8x1lGLab0gaZxxRjeVs23vlUZMFLCVrTA9glmux5OWI-dTVWy7XxnAsV1j3N4Bg6h06vX6Ibpd4TsgfbO804QLo_pZ4rhHVaZ2U7Wbs/s1600/090511161509.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLcfu7JpfnlN8sm0JAZaUX-VZrFPMn9SkB6x9A8x1lGLab0gaZxxRjeVs23vlUZMFLCVrTA9glmux5OWI-dTVWy7XxnAsV1j3N4Bg6h06vX6Ibpd4TsgfbO804QLo_pZ4rhHVaZ2U7Wbs/s400/090511161509.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwp29GcQjSPAyl1_rcV2DvP10I5INbWNhPpQ36CyZf4r1-VsgE9FdkbAhB-Uh6RWr9zyjru4ETkw805c5hJqo0O1JR6NZVVXsOUhhAQMoBGwCFVDe2ykudasabqFCOukPSB5KQC3WKv5M/s1600/shot_1315249478500.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwp29GcQjSPAyl1_rcV2DvP10I5INbWNhPpQ36CyZf4r1-VsgE9FdkbAhB-Uh6RWr9zyjru4ETkw805c5hJqo0O1JR6NZVVXsOUhhAQMoBGwCFVDe2ykudasabqFCOukPSB5KQC3WKv5M/s320/shot_1315249478500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It hasn't been all bad. In the middle of stormy waters some pretty awesome things
have happened, like a <a href="http://www.livgracefull.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-brant-on-vacation.html">vacation</a> and seeing our son and an <a href="http://www.livgracefull.blogspot.com/2014/09/an-incredible-gift.html">amazing gift for my mom</a>.<br />
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When you have a blog about faith and grace and
encouragement, what do you do when you're the one needing the grace and encouragement?
When what you write is about what's happening in your life but what is
happening is all consuming and exhausting, and you are not quite ready
to write about it yet ... what then?<br />
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That's when I step back and stay quiet. But here's the thing - I miss you. I miss writing. So here I am popping in to tell you that although there is a lot going on - I'm okay. Really. I know where my hope is. I know that joy is just around the corner. I'll write more later. Promise.<br />
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The words may be few in the coming months, but I'll be popping in here and there - maybe for a five-minute Friday or when I have a burst of thought that I can't keep in. Let's keep our hearts and eyes and ears open. There are so many who are going through a difficult time. Let's be kind and lift one another up in prayer, okay?<br />
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Love ya!<br />
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- LivLivhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-36558410216093357682014-09-27T12:59:00.000-07:002014-09-27T12:59:12.202-07:00Five-Minute Friday: Because<div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It has been a difficult season and I haven't always handled it the best. I would like to be a woman who wears her circumstances well, but there have been days I have snapped at my family or had a melt down over something small. Stress has ached across my shoulders and too many times I have focused on my own lack of strength and despaired because of my inadequacy. But then there are those moments when God lifts my chin and lovingly reminds me that He is my strength and He is carrying me. He reminds me to watch as He works everything out.</span></div>
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Today I am in a comfortable rented condo with my mom as she recovers from her kidney transplant. And she is doing so well! This mornings bacon is lingering in the air. Although it still feels like summer outside in Tucson, an apple crisp is baking in the oven, and it smells like Thanksgiving. Mmmm. Scotty and Cel are sitting together on the couch watching a movie, and I am feeling so grateful because even though sometimes life is hard, God is always good.<br />
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I am grateful because my mom has received an amazing gift. Because I have a loving husband who rubs the ache in my shoulders. Because I have four siblings who are my best friends. Because I have incredible friends who love, pray and offer their support. Because God is in control and His grace is sufficient. I don't have to have it all together. What a relief! <br />
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Bad days will come and go. They are the exception, not the rule. Better days are coming. There will be more gifts. More joy. No matter the circumstances there is one constant: God and His goodness. <br />
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<i>I know it's Saturday, but that's what I love about <a href="http://katemotaung.com/2014/09/25/five-minute-friday-because/">Five-Minute Friday</a>! It's all about just writing raw. The ladies who write over at FMF don't care about mistakes or if it's a day late! </i>Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-22469260918657702212014-09-24T22:38:00.000-07:002014-09-25T06:48:55.216-07:00An Incredible Gift<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1L9aFtjmgR5yxdNW8dM8wqr6EocMrYiRwiLgAKPecg-0hEmsdr-iQ0F1Hm0eFC0O3ry1-Ripjlh0aZcfbEPqmKFmWjTSvxxOkXhaOwleNozdQ2fAkKjfKJBvYfPHyFtHewDswr2AmVbY/s1600/photo.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1L9aFtjmgR5yxdNW8dM8wqr6EocMrYiRwiLgAKPecg-0hEmsdr-iQ0F1Hm0eFC0O3ry1-Ripjlh0aZcfbEPqmKFmWjTSvxxOkXhaOwleNozdQ2fAkKjfKJBvYfPHyFtHewDswr2AmVbY/s1600/photo.JPG" height="320" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In pre-op</td></tr>
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After 5 1/2 years of dialysis treatments, 3 times a week; 3 hours at a time - my beautiful momma has a new kidney! The surgery went well. Besides a couple of rough nights and fever due to her new medication (one out of what seems like a hundred!), she has been doing great! Thank you for your prayers! Keep 'em coming!<br>
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We could hardly believe it when we received the news that a kidney had come available for her. We are so grateful for this gift, knowing that while we are rejoicing, another family is mourning. Please lift them up in prayer. Although we don't know who they are, we will forever owe them a debt of gratitude for changing my mom's life.<br>
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<br>You can read more of my mom's story over at <a href="http://www.recovery4rae.com/">www.recovery4rae.com</a>. My sister and her husband did a wonderful job setting up the website - please check it out! <br>
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Speaking of my sisters. I don't know what I would do without them and my brother. <br>
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The past week and a half has been manic, to say the least. Between setting up accounts, traveling 70 miles to and from the hospital, trying to figure out insurance stuff, making arrangements for her 24 hour care for the next 4-6 weeks and managing our own personal and work schedules - we all have carried one another. Scotty and Celine also deserve a major award for putting up with the crazy lady (me) who has moved into our home!<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Parker - A Christmas Story <a href="http://www.imagekind.com/A-Christmas-Story_art?IMID=27a1d70c-60a9-4f80-a35c-67799e31ca70">(Photo)</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td></tr>
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Please continue to pray for my mom as she adjusts to new medications and the health challenges that come along with organ transplantation. She is just at the beginning of her recovery journey. Please pray that all will go well, without complications and that she will be home soon, enjoying her new life!<br>
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Thank you for your friendship! I love having this space to share life together with you!<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;"><span style="color: #741b47;"><i><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">- Liv</span></span></i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br></span></td></tr>
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Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-57194057065112770652014-09-19T16:45:00.000-07:002014-09-19T16:45:14.227-07:00Five Minute Friday: Hold<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hold on guys! Hang in there. These long tired days? They're just a season.<br />
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Sometimes you feel like you've been hanging on for too long. And you're just. So. Tired. You don't how much longer you can do it. Your grip is weak. You feel like you just might go under. </div>
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Hold on to those promises that you are never alone; that everything is going to work out for good. Hold on to the promise that you have a hope and a future; that Gods got good plans for you. He is near the broken hearted; a Father to the fatherless; that He brings beauty from the ashes. </div>
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This season will pass. Joy will come in the morning. And when you look back you'll realize that although you felt as if you were clinging with all your might, <span style="font-size: x-large;">you were being held. The whole time. </span></div>
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Linked up over <a href="http://katemotaung.com/2014/09/18/five-minute-friday-hold/">here</a> with other writers for five minutes - mistakes and all!</div>
Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1361079445786477766.post-91434767092275257592014-09-12T11:50:00.000-07:002014-09-12T12:45:35.535-07:00Five-Minute Friday: Ready<div style="text-align: center;">
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I don't know about you, but I'm so ready for cool nights and hot drinks; pumpkin pie and warm sweaters! Summer has been lovely, but I'm ready for the change of seasons and snuggling up, safe and warm. <br />
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And then there's those <i>other </i>changes. The one's we're not so ready for.<br />
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Saying goodbye.<br />
Letting go. <br />
Sending our babies out into the world.<br />
Growing up and aging.<br />
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We all face that <i>one thing</i> at some point in our lives. You know. The one we dread. It rudely interrupts our blissful season without so much as asking if we are ready or not. It just barges in, too soon. Your <i>one thing</i> is probably different then mine, but we have this in common: a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). <i> </i><br />
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<i>So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your
God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my
righteous right hand. </i>-Isaiah 41:10</blockquote>
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<i><span class="text Isa-43-18" id="en-NIV-18524">Forget the former things; </span><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"></span><span class="text Isa-43-18">do not dwell on the past<sup> </sup></span></span><span class="text Isa-43-19" id="en-NIV-18525"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>See, I am doing a new thing!</span><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Isa-43-19">Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? </span></span><span class="text Isa-43-19">I am making a way in the wilderness</span></i><span class="indent-1"><i><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span></i><span class="text Isa-43-19"><i>and streams in the wasteland.</i> - Isaiah 43:18-19</span></span></blockquote>
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And there are a hundred more promises. Verses we know well. They are for you, you know. It's so much easier to quote them and believe them for someone else. I'm telling you and I'm telling me - let's believe them for ourselves in the changes we may be facing ahead. We are never alone and we are always loved.<br />
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<i>For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus</i>. - Philippians 1:6<span class="p"><br /></span></blockquote>
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I'm linking up with other lovely ladies over <a href="http://katemotaung.com/2014/09/11/five-minute-friday-ready-and-a-challenge/">here</a>. Livhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17611229941426453809noreply@blogger.com4