tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54495511791465580352024-03-13T10:39:24.639-06:00Simply SaraBeing Molded, Everyday, into the Woman I am called to be.Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.comBlogger571125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-49940067814021885562015-08-07T15:31:00.000-06:002015-08-07T15:36:08.689-06:00Looking Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A little look back at our first year of homeschooling according to the kids. Because I want to remember their perspectives too :)<br />
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Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-45361890013186219972015-08-06T16:16:00.000-06:002015-08-06T16:36:13.520-06:00Love in the rain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This morning in an effort to avoid the three loads of laundry, sticky floors and mountain of dishes I decided we needed to head out and run some errands. After a couple of stops we found ourselves at Costco.<br />
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The kids browsed the book aisle and I quickly grabbed the few things we needed....and a couple things we didn't. Thanks Costco, you get me every time! After our shopping we headed to the food court line up to grab a quick lunch. Because feeding four kids and a tired mama for $7.88 sounded a whole lot better than adding to the sticky floors and pile of dishes back home.</div>
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After we were done our lunch we stepped outside to a rainy parking lot. The five of us raced to the van. We quickly loaded up our groceries and hopped in for protection. The girls were giggling in the backseat (thanks to the pop they had for lunch, I'm sure ;) Evan was trying to ask me about the song that was playing and Ellie was "reading" her new library book out loud. I sighed as I started up the van. As I checked my mirror I saw a lady trying to load up her groceries beside us. She was clearly struggling to pull the heavy boxes from her cart and so I asked Evan to hop out to help her. I watched the relief on her face when he offered and so I decided to hop out as well to help get the job done a little faster in the rain. </div>
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I was not expecting what God was about to do.</div>
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As I walked up to this sweet lady our eyes met and she thanked me. Then she told me that she had just received news moments before that one of her daughter's close friends was killed in a car accident. The heaviness of her words broke my heart. And as the three of us loaded up the back of her car, she unloaded some of the grief. I won't soon forget what she said: "You think your day is going well, you're just out getting groceries and then you get this call...." her voice drifted off as she looked down. </div>
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And in that moment words escaped me. All I could do was say how sorry I was.</div>
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While she went to return her cart I stood there grasping for how I could add something to our exchange, how could I comfort this sweet lady? When she returned to her car I asked her if I could pray for her. It turns out that she knows Jesus too. We stood in the rain and I prayed for peace and comfort and that her family would draw close to Him during this time. </div>
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I think God wanted to remind us both that His desire is to be close to us. On the easy days when we can easily see Him AND on the hard days when we want to scream to the heavens "Why?!" His heart is to be close to his children. He wants us to know He is there beside us when we are laughing with joy AND when we get that phone call.</div>
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When I got back in the car the kids wanted to know what happened. I told them and explained that God just wants to use each of us to encourage and serve others. We talked about what a missed opportunity it would have been if we had just driven away and not offered to help with her boxes. We spoke about the fact that God didn't design us to be alone but that He wants to use us to show everyone we come in contact with what His heart looks like. </div>
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As I shared with them I was once again reminded that this mothering thing, this everyday- day in day out pouring out of myself, is such an amazing ministry. This season that seems like it will go on FOOOOREVER is so important and beautiful and I would do well to remember that. </div>
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We get to SHOW our kids what it means to care about others. We get to SHOW our kids what it means to allow Jesus into our everyday moments. We get to SHOW our kids how to serve others and how to pray for them. We get to SHOW our kids what Love does.</div>
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I don't get it right most of the time, but today.... today God allowed me a chance to see that He can use all of us, we just need to have our eyes and hearts open.</div>
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Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-39476580853637909082015-06-26T22:26:00.000-06:002015-06-27T22:31:34.467-06:00SevenMy Selah. I know I say this every year but I can not believe you are already seven. I miss my little crying baby who would not let me put her down for one single second to make dinner.... and yet.... you continue to grow into such a beautiful and kind girl that I am more and more excited to see how our relationship deepens as you grow older.<br />
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What I am most excited to see is how God is going to use you. I don't really know how to put it into words but your mind fascinates me. I know that God has big plans for you my sweet girl! The way you reason, the way you think things through, the way you grasp new concepts.... what joy it is to watch you learn. God is going to use your mind and your heart to change this world! I look forward to seeing Him do just that!<br />
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At seven you are....<br />
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* Proudly riding 2 wheels<br />
* Currently obsessed with dolphins and koalas- NOT koala bears, because koalas are marsupials NOT bears. Bam.<br />
* Already blowing through second grade math<br />
* Chewing your way through "The Magic Treehouse" series<br />
* Teaching your little sister her alphabet<br />
* Mastering the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmSbXsFE3l8">"cup song"</a><br />
* Showing us all what it means to love like Jesus<br />
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I adore you my sweet girl. Happy Birthday<br />
May you have many new adventure and conquer many more mountains this year.<br />
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xoxo<br />
Mommy<br />
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<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-34337784280346256632015-06-21T23:29:00.000-06:002015-06-22T10:01:38.188-06:00Forgiveness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This past week we escaped away to the mountains with Chris' parents. We had such a wonderful time away. We hiked, we swam, we read, we played games.......we relaxed. On our last afternoon we took a little walk around the villas. There is a golf course that wraps itself around the resort and while walking along the road back toward our villa our little Abby was hit with a flying golf ball.<br />
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Her leg was pretty badly bruised but otherwise she was not really hurt.<br />
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My immediate reaction was to her, of course, but after I saw that she was ok a second wave of unexpected emotion followed.... for the golfer.<br />
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I won't soon forget the expression on that young golfers face when he quickly came over to apologize and realized that he had hit an 8 year old.<br />
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He didn't see her. He didn't mean to. It was an accident. He was so, so very sorry.<br />
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I feel sick just thinking about it. Remembering his face.<br />
I am sure the rest of his game changed that afternoon because of that shot. He probably hit a little lighter. Hesitated a little more. And I am certain from now on each and every time he goes to hit that ball he will remember.<br />
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And this was just a golf ball hitting a leg.<br />
She was fine. It wasn't as bad as it could have been.<br />
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But what if it had been worse? What if the ball had hit her head? What it it wasn't a ball at all, but a car that hit her?<br />
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Would I feel this wild mix of emotions? Protection for my girl but also a deep sympathy for the other? Would I want to protect them both? It's easy to forgive and move on when everything is ok. Abby's leg will only be bruised for a little while, but would I be able to move on if the situation were different?<br />
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Yes, I can easily forgive that young golfer for accidentally hitting my girl in the leg.<br />
But would I be able to forgive someone for accidentally taking her life?<br />
Does my forgiveness depend on the outcome?<br />
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A couple of years ago I heard of a mother who's young daughter was killed by a drunk driver.<br />
My heart can't even bare to imagine it.<br />
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This mother took her grief and heartache and allowed God to use it to launch her into an unexpected ministry. She began speaking at schools and churches about the dangers of drunk driving. Her message was a powerful one. She shared images and stories and spoke of her hurt and loss. She said that after awhile God prompted her to truly forgive the young man who made the choice to drink and drive the night that ended up taking her daughter life.<br />
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She chose the impossible.....forgiveness.<br />
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<a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2132152/Meagan-Napier-death-The-unlikely-friendship-mother-drunk-driver-killed-daughter.html">And in that forgiveness there was healing. </a>They began giving those talks together. A grieving mother and a broken man spoke together about how his actions affected both their lives and about how forgiveness can win. Her family followed her lead and each of them chose to forgive as well. They went before the court and asked to have his 22 year prison sentence cut in half. They won. Forgiveness won. That family says that they grew to love him and now look at him like he's a son.<br />
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Only forgiveness can do that.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n9J6xOT3Ldw?list=PLigcnYYQ_fs3SKbklWjSm9-Z1oSGWR5yW" width="560"></iframe><br />
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At the end of this video Matthew West challenges us to look a little closer at our own hearts...<br />
*Do I need to forgive someone? Is bitterness eating away at heart heart and I need to finally set it free?<br />
*Do I need to ask for forgiveness from someone? Have I hurt someone and need to humble myself before them?<br />
*Can I ever forgive myself. Do I flinch when I see myself in the mirror. Could I ever set myself free?<br />
*Have I accepted God's amazing gift of forgiveness. Do I believe that He died on the cross for me and that my every action, my every sin is forgiven by His sacrifice?<br />
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I am always so amazed at the way in which God chooses to speak to me. Sometimes it's a soft whisper. Sometimes it's in a <a href="http://www.simplysara.ca/2015/05/provider.html">broken van door.</a> Today He's using a golf ball and a bruised leg to speak into a part of my heart that I didn't realize needed healing. He's whispering my need to forgive someone in my life.<br />
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And so tonight this is my prayer. Maybe it could be yours too....<br />
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<span style="color: #45818e;">Show me how to love the unlovable</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">Show me how to reach the unreachable</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">Help me now to do the impossible</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">Forgiveness</span><br />
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<span style="color: #45818e;">I want to finally set it free</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">So show me how to see what Your mercy sees</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">Help me now to give what You gave to me</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">Forgiveness</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e; font-size: x-small;">~Forgiveness by Matthew West</span><br />
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<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-33905120994313173742015-05-31T14:15:00.002-06:002015-05-31T20:06:16.893-06:00Provider<span style="text-align: left;">Last Friday I did something not so awesome. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">We were coming home from an afternoon at the lake when I pulled up to park the van in the garage. I noticed that one of the kids scooters had not been put away properly. I was worried that I might drive over it so I asked Evan to hop out and move it. After he did, I drove forward to park in my spot when all of a sudden I heard a loud *BAM* - the kind of sound that everyone wants to hear when they are diving. Cringe. I turn my head and saw that our sliding door had hit the garage door frame. Evan hadn't closed it when he hopped out, and I hadn't checked to make sure that it was closed. Nooooo!</span><br />
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My mistake had cost us dearly. The automatic sliding door was now broken.</div>
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This could not have come at a worse time. We just don't have any extra to be able to cover a car repair. I was so mad at myself for being so absentminded. It would have taken 2 seconds to turn around to make sure that the door was closed. Why oh why didn't I check that? :(</div>
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The next morning, as I sat at the dealership waiting to hear what my mistake would cost us, I flipped open my bible. This is what I read:</div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;">“In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me.</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help, and you listened to my cry."</span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">Jonah 2: 2 </span><br />
<br />
And in that moment I wrestled. I was certainly feeling distressed.....but did I believe that He would answer me?<br />
<br />
Sometimes when I read His word I struggle with believing that it's for me. I hope it is, but at the same time guard my heart from disappointment. What if He doesn't answer in the way I want, will I still believe He answers? Faith is hard.<br />
<br />
A little while later I received an update on our van. It was not the easy fix they had anticipated. The van would need to go to a body shop. Since it was the weekend I had to lay aside the worries of what it was going to cost until Monday. I tried to just push it out of my head but I was dreading the consequence that was looming ahead.<br />
<br />
On Sunday evening my phone chirped with a text. It was from a family we knew. They said that God had put it on their hearts to send us money. They wrote "Think of it as a hug from the Lord and know you're not forgotten about. He hears your cry..."<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">".....and you listened to my cry." Jonah 2:2</span><br />
<br />
I don't think it's a coincidence that this family used those words to send me. God wanted to use them to remind me that He does answer. He wanted to remind me that He loves me and sees me and cares about me.... and the absentminded mistakes I make. God wanted to pay the price.<br />
<br />
I am in tears just writing this. My God is able.<br />
<br />
See, in that dealership office I was praying for help. I was hoping that the van door would just need to be popped back in place. That would have been an answer to my prayer.....But God was preparing a bigger surprise.<br />
<br />
Our door is now working and we only needed to use a quarter of the money that was given to us. He wanted to answer my cry AND bless us beyond that need as well.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">God can do anything, you know- far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. </span><br />
<span style="color: #45818e;">Ephesians 3:20-21 The Message</span><br />
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I want to remember this the next time I am looking into His word and wondering if it's for me.<br />
My God provides for all of my needs. He will provide for yours too.<br />
xo<br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #45818e;">And when my circumstance</span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;">Leaves me with empty hands</span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e;">You're the provider of my needs</span></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e; font-size: x-small;">(You Are by Colton Dixon)</span></div>
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Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-26570128546549473122015-04-09T20:26:00.001-06:002015-05-16T14:39:47.288-06:00Happy Eight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I remember that day, 8 years ago, like it was yesterday. When they put her on my chest for the first time and I saw her, brand new, oh how I fell in love.<br />
<br />
My Abigail.<br />
<br />
She's always been my wild one.<br />
My adventure seeking beauty.<br />
She's not afraid of anything and teaches me so much about embracing life.<br />
<br />
She's the one I found on top of the fridge at age 2, happily waving down to me while I nearly had a heart attack.<br />
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She's the one who, while played hide and seek with her sister at her brother's hockey practice, found the "perfect spot" at the swimming pool on the other side of the complex. Nearly gave this mama a heart attack when we couldn't find her.<br />
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She's the one who just didn't understand the meaning of <i>"inside voice</i>".<br />
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She's the first to try a new food. The last one out of the pool. The first to get up in the morning. The last to leave the party.<br />
<br />
She truly squeezes out every bit of joy she can- in ALL things. In fact she can turn an ordinary day into one filled with imagination and fun. Sometimes I find myself asking her to stop her silliness, and sometimes Wisdom tells me to just be quiet and let her be.<br />
<br />
I could stand to be a little more like her.<br />
<br />
Lately, I see a new maturity in her.... it's a beautiful thing. There's a new softness. A gentleness that wasn't there before. She's quick to obey and I see a sweet leadership quality being developed. It's fun to see this change begin to take shape.<br />
<br />
Her spark though, it's still there. And I pray, with everything that is in me, that it will never leave. <br />
<br />
Happy Birthday my beautiful Abby.<br />
Oh how I adore you.<br />
<br />
xo<br />
Mommy<br />
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<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-14167817610884731192015-03-19T17:21:00.002-06:002015-05-16T14:42:32.907-06:00Just because...It was a typical day.<br />
<br />
The morning flew by with math lessons, reading practice, writing prompts and morning chores. A few groans were heard here and there and even more giggles as books were opened, worked on and then put away once again.<br />
<br />
We had just finished lunch and the girls and I were stepping out to meet some friends at the library when I found it.<br />
A surprise gift on our doorstep.<br />
<br />
We brought it inside. Opened it, and found this:<br />
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Just because....</div>
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just because you are worth it.</div>
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just because you are loved.</div>
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just because you are special.</div>
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just because you are you.</div>
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I let the words wash over me. And then I cried. Haha. You need to know something- my husband calls me the "ice queen" because I don't cry in movies (like a certain someone. Ahem) but this card, well, it made me tear up.</div>
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Why is it so easy to believe these words about someone else, but hard to believe them about myself?</div>
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If you know me, you know I'm a words person. I devour books. Fiction. Non Fiction. Biographies. Studies. I love getting lost in imaginary worlds as well as finding myself lost in the wisdom and advice of others. </div>
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So when I opened this gift and saw books *squeal* I knew that not only did this person bless me with this unexpected gift. Not only did their beautiful words encourage me. But this gift of books was also from someone who truly "gets" me.</div>
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The card, as you can see, wasn't signed. </div>
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This became it's own treasure hunt. The girls quickly got to work guessing who could have left it. They excitedly began naming people. Just then Evan casually walked by, took one look at it and said "I know who it's from." He guessed and I agreed. It had to be from her.</div>
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I debated back and forth as to whether or not I should thank her. On the one hand I thought maybe she'd wanted to remain anonymous and wouldn't want any credit. After all, she didn't leave her name on the card for a reason. </div>
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But on the other hand my heart leaped with excitement. I just had to tell her. I had to tell her that her love was recognizable. That the intentional, authentic way she lived and loved was so obvious that even my 11 year old son knew right away that it was her.</div>
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What joy! To know a friend who loves in this way!</div>
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<i>In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take that responsibility seriously. And if you have the gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.</i></div>
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<i>Romans 12:6-8 (NLT)</i></div>
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This friend of mine was given the gift of encouraging others. And she does. She <i>radically</i> encourages. She can see beauty in others and calls it out. She knows how to speak life. She is authentic and just so very lovely with her words.</div>
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Which got me to thinking.... what do others recognize about the way I live. The way I love? </div>
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How can I use my gifts to bring Him glory? </div>
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It's so easy to get distracted by the busyness of life. To allow ourselves to get so bombarded that we don't even have the time to use the gifts we are given. Life, indeed, can get messy.</div>
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But can I challenge you? And at the same time- myself? </div>
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<b>Let's take a few moments- right now, to recognize how we are gifted</b>. </div>
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<b>Ask Him. He'll show you.</b></div>
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<i>In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to <b>prophesy</b>, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is <b>serving </b>others, serve them well. If you are a<b> teacher</b>, teach well. If your gift is to <b>encourage others</b>, be encouraging. If it is<b> giving</b>, give generously. If God has given you <b>leadership ability</b>, take that responsibility seriously. And if you have the gift for <b>showing kindness</b> to others, do it gladly.</i></div>
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<i>Romans 12:6-8 (NLT)</i></div>
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<b>So, what is your gift?</b></div>
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*Is it to prophesy? Could you share your heart?</div>
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*Is it to serve? Could you make a meal for a friend? Volunteer to watch her kids? Fold your laundry with a smiling heart?</div>
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*Is it giving? Could you give what you have to someone who may be too afraid to ask for help? Your time? Money? Talents?</div>
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*Is it teaching? Could you share you wisdom with love- doesn't matter if you are "officially" a teacher or not. If God has gifted you in this way- teach what you know!</div>
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*Is it kindness? Could you offer that willingly to a stranger? A friend? A grumpy soul needing some extra love?</div>
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*Is it leadership? Could you recognize where you need to lead? And step out.</div>
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These are just a few ideas. There are so many unique and creative ways to use your gifts :)</div>
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<b>And now, this week, let's allow some room in our hearts and our days to use our gifts..... just because.</b></div>
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xo</div>
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Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-20089412243238090612015-02-27T23:21:00.002-07:002015-05-16T14:42:50.251-06:00This week I....:: straight up yelled at my kids<br />
<br />
:: cursed under my breath as my 11 year old stomped off to his room<br />
<br />
:: cried in the bathroom, feeling like a complete failure<br />
<br />
:: took the kids to an afternoon matinee, just because<br />
<br />
:: snuggled in bed with my girl as she read to me<br />
<br />
:: lost in a game of chess to my boy<br />
<br />
:: haven't done a single load of laundry<br />
<br />
:: started reading the Word one on one with my boy<br />
<br />
:: have done 12 braids in little girl hair<br />
<br />
:: put a movie on in the van for the kids to watch just so that I could have a little peace....and then drove through the McDonalds line, ordering a fountain pop and cookies all around<br />
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:: called for Chinese food, because I wanted to watch an episode of "Strong Medicine" on Netflix instead of making dinner<br />
<br />
:: conspired with the kids to surprise daddy with a romantic candlelight dinner, promising to pay them each a dollar if they stayed downstairs the entire time we ate our dinner<br />
<br />
:: played "I love you more than...." with my 4 year old<br />
<br />
:: pressed the snooze button every morning choosing sleep over working out<br />
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From as far back as I can remember I have always wanted everyone to like me. I needed them to. I desperately craved acceptance. It didn't matter if I was being real or not, all that mattered was that they liked me. Enter people pleasing Sara.<br />
<br />
Years and years of pretending.<br />
<br />
But something is shifting in me. I am too tired to act anymore. I just don't have it in me. I need to be real. And the reality is- I am a mess. A messy mess. And I can't pretend that I'm not.<br />
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This week (and every week, for that matter) was a mix of joy and failure. Tears and high fives. We don't like to talk about the hard. The ugly. But what I'm realizing is that I am craving authenticity, and it has to start with me.<br />
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So.....who's with me?<br />
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<b>What was your week like?</b></div>
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<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-67591474726301366722015-02-11T09:19:00.002-07:002015-05-16T14:43:13.510-06:00Elliot Joy<div>
When I was pregnant with my Ellie I had a dream. In that dream I had a beautiful little girl named Elliot. I woke up excited and with so much joy! I actually woke Chris up to ask him if he liked the name and to my surprise (because we were having a hard time agreeing on names) he just smiled. We both loved her name. </div>
<br />
Later that morning I looked up the meaning of her name.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Elliot </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">(el-ee-uh-t)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">noun</span></div>
1. Close to God<br />
2. Believes in God<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
3. The Lord is my God<br />
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<b>Joy</b><br />
(jo-i)<br />
noun<br />
1.joy- a source or cause of keen pleasure or delight; something or someone greatly valued or appreciated.<br />
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And I knew right then, in my heart of hearts, that it was really Jesus who named her. Her name is a promise to her, to us, from Him.<br />
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My dearest Elliot Joy,<br />
<br />
Today you are four years old.<br />
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You have truly brought SO much joy to our family. You are silly and kind and teach us all how to have a little more fun in our day.<br />
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I can already see your sweet relationship with God deepen. You are always the first one to want to pray. Hearing your little voice speak to God is the sweetest sound.<br />
Often I find you singing worship songs to yourself and you are always the first one to ask to turn up the worship music in the van!<br />
<br />
My deepest prayer for you is to be close to God. To believe in him. To stand proudly and say "The Lord is my God" and to find joy in your everyday. If you seek Him in all things, I promise you will.<br />
<br />
I adore you my sweet girl.<br />
Happy birthday beautiful!<br />
<br />
xoxo<br />
MommySimply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-26436211729736956842014-11-30T20:19:00.002-07:002014-11-30T20:40:44.948-07:00Jesse Tree Advent Tradition<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse;
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Isaiah 11:1</span></b></div>
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This year I am so excited to start a Jesse Tree Advent with the kids. Every day we will dive into God's word together and uncover God's all consuming, always faithful, never giving up love for His people. From creation to Jesus' birth each day we will see how God's plan was to always, always, always rescue His people.</div>
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As the kids put these ornaments on each day in December my prayer is that God's story of Salvation will truly come alive for them. </div>
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A few weeks ago, a sweet mama in our church organized a Jesse Tree Ornament exchange. There were 11 of us and so each of us made 2 ornaments (and a couple made 3). Then we got together and exchanged our handmade goodies. </div>
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Oh my. </div>
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These ladies completely blew me away with their creativity. I would have never EVER dreamed up these ornaments on my own. What a gift they are to our family. Each day when we take them out I will be reminded of the love and care these women put into making them. What a blessing.</div>
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And on top of all that, it was a super fun evening getting to know some sweet women in our new church. A night out for this homeschooling mama was worth it's weight in gold ;)</div>
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These ornaments were made to follow along with <a href="http://www.christianbook.com/devotions-children-prepare-coming-christ-christmas/dean-smith/9781426712104/pd/712105?kw=712105&en=shopping&p=1012505">The Advent Jesse Tree Devotional</a>, but you can also simply follow along with the scripture for each day.</div>
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Here's what we will be putting on our tree over the next month....</div>
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Day 1: Creation</div>
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Genesis 1:1, 26-31</div>
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Day 2: Sin </div>
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Genesis 3:1-19</div>
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Day 3: The Ark</div>
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Genesis 6:11-14; 7:17; 8:3; 9:8-13</div>
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Day 4: Abraham</div>
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Genesis 12:1-7</div>
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Day 5: The Lamb</div>
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Genesis 22:1-14, John 1:29</div>
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Day 6: Jacob's Ladder</div>
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Genesis 28:10-22</div>
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Day 7: Joseph's Coat of Many Colors</div>
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Genesis 37:1-4</div>
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Day 8: The Ten Commandments</div>
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Exodus 20:1-17, Deuteronomy 5:1-22</div>
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Day 9: The Promised Land</div>
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Numbers 13:1-2, 17-23, 27</div>
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Day 10: Ruth and Boaz</div>
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Ruth 1:15- 2:3</div>
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Day 11: King David</div>
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1 Samuel 16:1-13</div>
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Day 12: The Law</div>
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II Kings 23:1-3, Psalm 119:105</div>
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Day 13: The Stump of Jesse</div>
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Isaiah 11:1-2</div>
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Day 14: The Lion and the Lamb</div>
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Isaiah 11:6-9</div>
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Day 15: The Prince of Peace</div>
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Isaiah 9: 2-7, John 14:27</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Day 16: The Gentle Shepherd</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Isaiah 40:11, Psalm 23:1-2, John 10:27</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Day 17: The Suffering Servant</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Isaiah 53, Luke 2:8-18, John 19:11-18, John 10:15</div>
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Day 18: The New Covenant</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jeremiah 23:5-6 and 31:31-34</div>
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Day 19: Bethlehem Prophecy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Luke 2:6-21</div>
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Day 20: The Fiery Furnace</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Daniel 3:19-29 and Jeremiah 1:8</div>
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Day 21: The Exile</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nehemiah 4:15-23, 6:15</div>
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Day 22: The Star</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Matthew 2:1-12 and Revelation 22:16</div>
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Day 23: The Light of the World</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Luke 1:26-38, 2:32 and John 8:12</div>
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Day 24: The Angel</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hebrews 1:14, Luke 2:8-14</div>
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Day 25: Baby Jesus!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Luke 2:1-10 and John 3:16-17</div>
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We bought a special little 3ft tree to put in our homeschool room. I love that it is in place that we will see everyday and be reminded of His perfect plan and perfect LOVE for us.<br />
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I can not wait for tomorrow!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-63020700302158841802014-11-07T19:54:00.001-07:002014-11-07T21:13:59.215-07:00Elf on the Shelf- A month of ideas!<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">
Last year we had our very first visit from an elf. I had been avoiding the whole "Elf on a Shelf" scenario for a few years.... it just looked like soooooo much work- sooooo much pressure, and just ONE.MORE.THING to add to the craziness of the season.</div>
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But I finally decided to try it out after a friend raved (and raved) about what fun they had with it the last couple of years. She made it sound so wonderful!</div>
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And wonderful it was. </div>
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I soon discovered that it just brought a little extra Christmas magic to our month. The kids were excited to find him each morning, and I caught them on occasion just talking to him. They would guess where he would be the next day, and it was so awesome to see their reactions each morning. It was also really fun to have our oldest son help with some of the set-ups. </div>
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They have also continued taking about him all year. Seriously. The conversations/memories the kids have of our elf "Candycane" have been so fun. I love that what started out as something that I was pretty reluctant to embrace has become such a wonderful addition to our Christmas. It's not taking away from the true meaning of Christmas for us, it just adds a little more fun and excitement.</div>
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Last year, we decided that we wanted the set ups to be cute and funny, so none of our ideas really required any clean-up (except for the sugar angel, but that one was too cute to pass up!)</div>
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Some ideas came to us so easily and some were found at 11pm the night before on Pinterest. eek!</div>
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So, I thought I'd put up a list of what we did and hopefully it will give some of you some new ideas for this year.... you know, in case you were planning on jumping off the fence into the land of elves too!</div>
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:)</div>
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Dec 1- First Day, the kids found our elf hanging out on the top of our advent calendar. They named him Candycane.</div>
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Dec 2- Candycane brought the kids new Christmas jammies to open and wear all month.</div>
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Dec 3- A little (and yummy) reminder to "BE GOOD"</div>
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Dec 4- A fun game of dominos</div>
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Dec 5- Candycane heard our girls singing "Away in a Manger" the night before. The kids found him playing that song in the morning</div>
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Dec 6- Reading a Christmas story to his buddies</div>
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Dec 7- A game of hide and seek</div>
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Dec 8- Candycane covered himself in Christmas stickers and tried to blend in as a ornament</div>
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Dec 9- A fun little surprise for the kids when they went to grab their cereal spoons</div>
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Dec 10- Eating from one of the four food groups</div>
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Dec 11- A Sugar Angel</div>
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Dec 12- He brought new Christmas coloring books</div>
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Dec 13- Hanging out in the freezer with a new snowfriend</div>
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Dec 14-A new family board game for us to unwrap and play- Jenga!</div>
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Dec 15- A little hunt. The note says "I hid 4 Candycanes in the room, can you find them in 4 minutes?"</div>
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Dec 16- Hot Chocolate for breakfast</div>
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Dec 17- Paper chain countdown. Only 8 sleeps left!</div>
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Dec 18- Another game of hide and seek. This time in the cupboard</div>
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Dec 19- A marshmallow bath in the barbie house</div>
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Dec 20- Let's bake sugar cookies!</div>
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Dec 21- Watching his favorite movie "Elf"</div>
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Dec 22- Candycane (red and white) balloons in the hallway upstairs (woke up to giggles that morning!)</div>
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Dec 23- Sugar cube ice castle building</div>
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Dec 24- Time to say goodbye. A note from Candycane to the kids telling them what fun he had all month and promising to be back next year. The note said that Santa would lift the Christmas magic for a few minutes so that the kids could hug and kiss him goodbye. Sweetness.</div>
</div>
Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-691467569969508352014-11-02T21:01:00.000-07:002014-11-02T21:39:44.140-07:00Out of control<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sjolQIoQzd3xrZfYnwQSp2ahtrDSH_2g5C_YDXL7eEorL1Nq3rWBkykVtc954Cyl5zlpNUIyBKqvFTaI3R41iwIjpTksFXoG9BcUIXD01hbCLbYmneuyQ0e_PncxbEzdsBdxmmbAm_w/s1600/homeschool2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sjolQIoQzd3xrZfYnwQSp2ahtrDSH_2g5C_YDXL7eEorL1Nq3rWBkykVtc954Cyl5zlpNUIyBKqvFTaI3R41iwIjpTksFXoG9BcUIXD01hbCLbYmneuyQ0e_PncxbEzdsBdxmmbAm_w/s1600/homeschool2.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
"How's homeschooling?"<br />
<br />
It's the question I am asked most often these days.<br />
And to be totally honest it's a hard one to answer.<br />
I usually say something like:<br />
<br />
"Oh, you know, some days are good and some are hard."<br />
<br />
And it's true.... but I wish I could explain it better. I just have a really hard time putting into words what these last two months have been like. Homeschooling has definitely changed our family. In so many ways.<br />
<br />
I think what I love best is that we are experiencing life together. We have had some pretty rocking moments together that I know are God's little gifts to me. Little joys that would not have been mine if we weren't spending our days together in this way.<br />
<br />
*The mid afternoon talks while strolling in Fish Creek.<br />
*The many, many baking adventures.<br />
*The quiet giggles as we listen to Ellie's elaborate morning prayers (man, God must have so much fun listening to his children!)<br />
*The way his face lights up when he figures out that hard thing called Math.<br />
*Listening to her reading... and getting it.<br />
*Hearing them making up those imaginary games.<br />
*Taking joy in learning all about God's creation together.<br />
*Watching her breeze through her schoolwork and then desiring more.<br />
<br />
So many wonderful moments.<br />
<br />
The hardest thing though has been figuring out how to make it work for each of the kids in different ways. They each have their strengths and weaknesses and we are still figuring out new ways to both support and challenge them. It has been a lot of trial and error. A lot. ;)<br />
<br />
But even on those hard days I get to spend them with these 4.......how lucky am I?!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVbAoJrfX37FSzPunW_zl6E2yeOeFtS6lanL9a5P7W73bFkoN_-pdtukV-cybLEBmFET7PwLoZFlPY9edwpk03V_e2cVT2ewfDHi-Ti_VqiaKUZJZcigENAas85SRPpn0e-IFrl9Yp_U/s1600/2014-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVbAoJrfX37FSzPunW_zl6E2yeOeFtS6lanL9a5P7W73bFkoN_-pdtukV-cybLEBmFET7PwLoZFlPY9edwpk03V_e2cVT2ewfDHi-Ti_VqiaKUZJZcigENAas85SRPpn0e-IFrl9Yp_U/s1600/2014-1.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Recently another homeschooling mom told me that the first year of homeschooling is like having your first baby. And I am here to say that that is probably the most accurate comparison.<br />
<br />
When I think back to when I first had Evan I remember a messy mix of hard moments and moments where I wondered how on earth I could be so blessed.<br />
<br />
My heart was so filled to the brim with unspeakable joy.<br />
I just couldn't grasp the fact that this perfect little guy was mine to love!<br />
I spent hours cuddling, swaying, singing.<br />
I spent hours praying, laughing, loving.<br />
<br />
I was also....<br />
<br />
exhausted beyond words.<br />
and worried that I was doing everything wrong.<br />
and scattered.... where oh where did I put those car keys?<br />
and stressed that maybe, just maybe I wasn't cut out for this....<br />
and faced (daily!) with the fact that I didn't know what the heck I was doing.<br />
<br />
All of this describes that crazy first year of being a Mama......and it also perfectly describes our last 8 weeks. <br />
;) <br />
<br />
But God.<br />
<br />
He has been gently teaching me that this is a good place to be.... out of control. Because it leaves room for Him. When I have my act together it's easy to go through the day without Him. But Lord have Mercy.... have I needed HIM! Daily. Hourly. <br />
<br />
I need him.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_C9SDqj9WcAm1ThosY3uVnarfjDf2ihBQa-UgWkOPQbPWqqNjiribvJNbyGnQ3KLdJwNbfau5u2aYxzbPCt3ETXwMDwuXdlMZr9Wcy6l9_PpMCsCwTb8fUUhXaNhKFdmscerRRpE9k8g/s1600/homeschool1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_C9SDqj9WcAm1ThosY3uVnarfjDf2ihBQa-UgWkOPQbPWqqNjiribvJNbyGnQ3KLdJwNbfau5u2aYxzbPCt3ETXwMDwuXdlMZr9Wcy6l9_PpMCsCwTb8fUUhXaNhKFdmscerRRpE9k8g/s1600/homeschool1.jpg" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And I want my kids to learn the same. That they need Him. That through it all, whether good or wonderful or hard or scary being out of control is the best place to be.... as long as we remember that He is always in control!<br />
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As we roll into our third month of homeschooling I feel like we are starting to find our way. </div>
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We are making mistakes but we are picking ourselves up and dusting ourselves off.<br />
<br />
And just like with parenting, I am holding onto the hope (the promise! the knowledge!).... that this indeed will get easier.<br />
<br />
xo</div>
Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-15600753540135489722014-09-09T20:25:00.002-06:002014-09-10T13:27:18.165-06:00Happy Day<div style="text-align: left;">
September 9, 2014<br />
I want to remember this day.<br />
<br />
It's the day God showed this (newbie) homeschooling mama that He is IN THIS with me.<br />
The day He truly and perfectly spoke to our son's heart. And Evan listened.<br />
The day I am reminded that God pursues us all and desires to be in
relationship with us even more than we could ever hope for.<br />
And the day when I was able to share in the most important decision of Evan's life.<br />
<br />
This summer I took some time to make a list of all the things that I wanted the kids to learn this year- ya, I kinda love lists! Among the academic goals I had for each of the kids I began to realize that our focus this year needed to be on the kids ability to hear God. I want them to know Him....like, <i>reeeeeeally</i> know him. To run to Him. To desire Him. </div>
<br />
We started today, with this book.<br />
<br />
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It is wonderful! It does an incredible job explaining to kids how God's desire is to speak to them and how they can recognize his voice!<br />
<br />
I read about halfway through and then told the kids that we were going to practice listening to His voice. They each found a quiet place and I instructed them to just talk to God like they would talk to a friend and then....... to listen. I put some worship music on and let them each have quiet time with God.<br />
<br />
20 minutes later Evan came out drying tears. I asked if God had spoken to him- he nodded and proceeded to show me his journal where he wrote that he had asked Jesus into his heart.<br />
<br />
I remember back to when Evan said the same thing to me when he was 3 years old. This sweet, chubby little face telling me that He wanted to be Jesus' friend too. This time, though, it was different. It was completely his choice. Zero input from me. Zero pressure. Just the precious
prompting of the Holy Spirit. He said that God used this song to speak to him....<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<br />
We cried together and spoke about how his life is forever changed. <br />
Emotional wouldn't even begin to describe what this moment was like. I have never seen him like that. He was undeniably different. Crying, he kept saying how happy he was. It was the same joy I felt back when I invited Jesus into my own heart. What an incredible blessing it was to be there with him for this.<br />
<br />
We talked about how when someone asks Jesus into their heart that there is
the most incredible celebration in Heaven and how the
angels must be doing back flips!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYdFWxtVLGmco_49SipGrqavcGN0GDFtx2n_ABDCjHCCwQsup3oYgB4frQ53jhcucTaNinXrzf9j6GkxGdlBB023RLlh-UHpjCfHdApgRhFYEnHPG2VIPit9QUsFcAit1z-4KpbTl_Ds/s1600/IMG_2669.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYdFWxtVLGmco_49SipGrqavcGN0GDFtx2n_ABDCjHCCwQsup3oYgB4frQ53jhcucTaNinXrzf9j6GkxGdlBB023RLlh-UHpjCfHdApgRhFYEnHPG2VIPit9QUsFcAit1z-4KpbTl_Ds/s1600/IMG_2669.jpg" /></a></div>
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God is so cool.<br />
Such an encouragement to me that the time we take in our day to learn about Him is SO worth it and will forever change my babies.<br />
<br />
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Yes, I need to remember this day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What a GIFT!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Day</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Jesus Culture </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The greatest day in history, death is beaten<br />
You have rescued me<br />
Sing it out, Jesus is alive<br />
The empty cross, the empty grave<br />
Life eternal, You have won the day<br />
Shout it all, Jesus is alive<br />
He's alive<br />
<br />
<i>[Chorus:]</i><br />
Oh happy day, happy day<br />
You washed my sin away<br />
Oh happy day, happy day<br />
I'll never be the same<br />
Forever I am changed<br />
<br />
When I stand, in that place<br />
Free at last, meeting face to face<br />
I am Yours, Jesus You are mine<br />
Endless joy and perfect peace<br />
Earthly pain finally will cease<br />
Celebrate Jesus is alive<br />
He's alive<br />
<br />
<i>[Bridge:]</i><br />
Oh what a glorious day<br />
What a glorious way<br />
That You have saved me<br />
Oh what a glorious day<br />
What a glorious name<br />
Jesus!
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-59526067222273056072014-06-14T17:19:00.005-06:002014-06-14T17:20:13.924-06:00We're homeschooling. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQK9nmoUB6c6e7Eh00ty8wE_cVFbw7oKZRQYYBS0P78LAPVosqSPU6K2zQV5F_Ks3xIFAN7XTQG7FjW1TIEy40cH-AOB8i4bggeaoK9RicjDu_9FEIG33q0h8lFUAwr5KjtXWDD4w5p4M/s1600/booksweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQK9nmoUB6c6e7Eh00ty8wE_cVFbw7oKZRQYYBS0P78LAPVosqSPU6K2zQV5F_Ks3xIFAN7XTQG7FjW1TIEy40cH-AOB8i4bggeaoK9RicjDu_9FEIG33q0h8lFUAwr5KjtXWDD4w5p4M/s1600/booksweb.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Say WHAAAAAT? You're going to homeschool your kids?! All of them?!<br />
<br />
Yup.<br />
<br />
I'll let the shock sink in............................................................................. :) <br />
<br />
I have always admired and respected homeschooling families (they are superstars!) but I never
EVER in a million years thought I would be one of them. Like. Ever.<br />
<br />
Well, never say never.<br />
Ha!<br />
<br />
If you know me, you know I process by writing.<br />
So naturally when something big happens to our family I feel the need to write about it. <br />
Plus, by writing about our decision to homeschool I can let everyone know what we are doing without actually having to personally tell everyone.<br />
I'm kinda emotional these days.<br />
<br />
Our decision to homeschool was wrestled with, weighed upon, and soaked in over a year of prayer. So many factors went into making this huge decision. And while I know that this is exactly where we are suppose to be for this season, I am still sad. <br />
<br />
Change is never easy. Saying goodbye to seeing your best buddies everyday will not be easy. Leaving an amazing school that we have considered family for the past six years will not be easy. <br />
<br />
But God.<br />
<br />
I know He will meet every need. He will fill our children's hearts. He will guide us and mold us and go before us.<br />
<br />
This new season will be exciting and wonderful and stretching and challenging. And we are all going to learn SO much- it's gonna be awesome. <br />
Looking forward to a brand new adventure in the fall!<br />
<br />
xo<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_782100430"></span><span id="goog_782100431"></span><br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-6601511973535930202014-05-28T17:46:00.002-06:002014-05-28T18:17:59.460-06:00Keepin' the love lovin'<div style="text-align: left;">
One day while walking through the grocery store a song came on that I had never heard before. It actually stopped me in my tracks and I let the words sink into my heart. I am a words person. Words are how I express, how I process, how I give and receive love. It always fascinates me when I am reminded that not everyone hears a song the same way I do. Chris listens to the music- the melody, the instruments, the flow of the song.... I listen to the lyrics.</div>
<br />
So, I heard this song and immediately wanted to share it with Chris, so I texted him the YouTube video.<br />
(the video is all kinds of crazy.....but again, listen to the lyrics, they are awesome!!)<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">I should be over all the butterflies<br />
But I'm into you (I'm in to you)<br />
And baby even on our worst nights<br />
I'm into you (I'm into you)<br />
Let em wonder how we got this far<br />
Cause I don't really need to wonder at all<br />
Yeah after all this time<br />
I'm still into you</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(Still Into You by Paramore) </i></span></span></div>
<br />
Shortly after Chris texted me this song:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/5V430M59Yn8" width="420"></iframe> </div>
<br />
Awwwwww.<br />
And so started a new language for us.<br />
A "youtube love song" language.<br />
<br />
Throughout the week (sometimes several times a day) Chris and I will text each other "love song" videos. Sometimes they are oldies, sometimes new ones. My favorites are the ones from the 60s and 70s. Sometimes they are hilarious and have me laughing out loud, and sometimes they make me smile at how sweet they are. No matter the type of song when I get a message like this my heart skips a beat.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypb-ZA5nEP_-u2tmWrGPJVwPPklFqgn1-H3HsBvLFHhKWrLoVkrzosWIBpMm9Ykyuc4ezfazZV4g-uG2O1Miuy-oNzlWF3-PzRTf3OmL4XIOB8QcR3lfvxgDDMerl98LY80ahkyARvWM/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypb-ZA5nEP_-u2tmWrGPJVwPPklFqgn1-H3HsBvLFHhKWrLoVkrzosWIBpMm9Ykyuc4ezfazZV4g-uG2O1Miuy-oNzlWF3-PzRTf3OmL4XIOB8QcR3lfvxgDDMerl98LY80ahkyARvWM/s1600/photo.jpg" height="266" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I try to guess what he has picked for me to listen to but I am ALWAYS surprised. That's the best part I think. It's impossible to guess which one he has chosen. And picking them is equally as fun. Sometimes I am sitting in the school parking lot waiting for the kids and I'm giggling as I imagine what his response is going to be to the one I picked for him. <br />
<br />
Our new language is a reminder in the middle of my busy day that he is thinking of me.<br />
It's a reminder in the middle of his busy day that I am thinking of him.<br />
<br />
One day a couple of months ago we got into a big argument over something that I'm sure was epic at the time, but now that I'm trying to recall the details I honestly can't even remember. But that day it was an all-out FIGHT. What I do remember is that I was fuming. A.N.G.R.Y. When I get mad I have a hard time sleeping, so I was also exhausted. And frustrated. And I knew he was too. Later the next day my cell phone chirped with a link to this video.....<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/sLJcJWxXAas" width="420"></iframe> </div>
<br />
HAHAHA.<br />
<br />
How could I stay angry at him after that? He used our secret love language and it was just another reminder to me that we are in this together. For the long haul.<br />
<br />
I've considered for a few months now whether or not I should share this on here, but Chris is the one who asked why I hadn't yet.... I guess I wanted it to be just our thing but then I realized that maybe it would be an encouragement to you and your marriage. An idea to add a little extra lovin' in the mix of the everyday shuffle :)<br />
<br />
This is what marriage is. It's trying to out serve the other. It's
laughing together. Surprising one another. It's saying sorry. And
forgiving. And it's secret love messages in the middle of the day.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Some things just,<br />
Some things just make sense<br />
And one of those is you and I<br />
Some things just,<br />
Some things just make sense<br />
And even after all this time<br />
I'm into You<br />
Baby not a day goes by that<br />
I'm not into you </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Still Into You by Paramore)</span></i></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>What do you in your marriage to keep your love lovin'?</b></i></div>
Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-89992114258571973582014-05-26T11:49:00.000-06:002014-05-26T14:25:37.281-06:00Turning Six<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJj9MIPvvDuqqi-X0hIKMbXiCgo9oD9yMm-NYk0mkbytw83P3-3qJDU8-J2h4gjhb0fjH4qNI2SLQd_JJ1euXNhEPWyXt2dXbeIpymyjlvfKKeQwlc_aZceDrhya4Cj8-ncAiGzhaJ1X0/s1600/selah1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJj9MIPvvDuqqi-X0hIKMbXiCgo9oD9yMm-NYk0mkbytw83P3-3qJDU8-J2h4gjhb0fjH4qNI2SLQd_JJ1euXNhEPWyXt2dXbeIpymyjlvfKKeQwlc_aZceDrhya4Cj8-ncAiGzhaJ1X0/s1600/selah1.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
My Sweet Selah,<br />
<br />
Last night I told you that I'd like you to stay 5 for another year. "Five was a fun year, why don't you just stay little awhile longer?" You giggled and sang out "Noooo, I need to keep groooooowing!"<br />
<br />
While I wish I could bottle up your innocence and stop time my prayer for you is that you would keep growing..... in kindness, compassion, joy and in your faith.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDxecNYJ55JwUamyGyRjHGE4br_bQelHR0AZ4lZITrmze35UEhWsohkiB6fLTwYxEUFIiSmF5SLSyo-_zw-Hr0-mbqEXXu7Qp_DODJ9CQDwpe1Ht9ZHqW9GOK1sG2tTgaEDutS71OvcA/s1600/selah7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDxecNYJ55JwUamyGyRjHGE4br_bQelHR0AZ4lZITrmze35UEhWsohkiB6fLTwYxEUFIiSmF5SLSyo-_zw-Hr0-mbqEXXu7Qp_DODJ9CQDwpe1Ht9ZHqW9GOK1sG2tTgaEDutS71OvcA/s1600/selah7.jpg" /></a> <br />
<br />
As I sit here thanking God for the precious gift you are to me I smile and am reminded of how unique and beautiful you are. What a wonderful blessing you are to our family!<br />
<br />
You are so very silly and sweet. When you find something especially funny you laugh this deep belly laugh. I adore that laugh. And when you start.... well, the room quickly follows.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2E4C1Ak-oU0jTIq6CRNGiUP1uUUuAeV9jLJGIfLf2mB6mSZzmN7DC40SPiWSns7Xf55easN5e6WZa0tuLZCfuYU7algci-3cmymtLLRD8shiF03htHBC1lRNb9Grwg4fJjikRlAa_dao/s1600/selah2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2E4C1Ak-oU0jTIq6CRNGiUP1uUUuAeV9jLJGIfLf2mB6mSZzmN7DC40SPiWSns7Xf55easN5e6WZa0tuLZCfuYU7algci-3cmymtLLRD8shiF03htHBC1lRNb9Grwg4fJjikRlAa_dao/s1600/selah2.jpg" /></a> <br />
<br />
You are kind and sensitive. You notice when someone needs a friend. When someone needs a hug. You care. You show this all the time in the way you treat your brother and sisters, and the way you serve our family. You are always the first to pull up a chair and offer to help cook dinner. Often I'll find myself sitting on the couch deep in thought about something and you'll curl up beside me and lay your head on my shoulder. <br />
Simply put- you love being with people. I love that about you.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxqHHuzyaFLfdMBeT2Ij5m0epi7NgBW2Pkx_I6xlWD0WYXww9H4i1ws4dlWKkG-P5rbBMdZ8679FjRRfOrobGMjL6DuIold22yg_Mx7qi7gFwqVk0DgmeW76j6k3n2JJnkyNwMrZ71CY/s1600/selah4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxqHHuzyaFLfdMBeT2Ij5m0epi7NgBW2Pkx_I6xlWD0WYXww9H4i1ws4dlWKkG-P5rbBMdZ8679FjRRfOrobGMjL6DuIold22yg_Mx7qi7gFwqVk0DgmeW76j6k3n2JJnkyNwMrZ71CY/s1600/selah4.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
You are the one who I find making up songs and dancing around the house. I love that you worship Jesus with your heart all day long. You are a quiet preformer....I see you practicing your songs and skits with your sisters and then when it's time to preform you giggle and wiggle and that deep belly laugh comes out.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9XOOsXEtuZXt2gxnqua-oda9V7gar85NGjCBrtWzzvk72zwcTbzerJOmKk-6ZXQzN92pqfarvuhka3xs5itIMYYSWnulBJbMyWfFcO47JAqud_azZ7736tnxKJWDQTivpZa7sGMtbmKw/s1600/selah6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9XOOsXEtuZXt2gxnqua-oda9V7gar85NGjCBrtWzzvk72zwcTbzerJOmKk-6ZXQzN92pqfarvuhka3xs5itIMYYSWnulBJbMyWfFcO47JAqud_azZ7736tnxKJWDQTivpZa7sGMtbmKw/s1600/selah6.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JI-HydgRJbRYWJIbx-F4xG9xlkBOaeulYPwuXuOa79WlVi-gWXxkZlmNMfTHhucFRfuCQBvoOQcu32YdEosTWkU_8-svG618EMVXno030pCwQNXnjDVar5EX4SLv72NDjHg777Q5UAI/s1600/selah8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7JI-HydgRJbRYWJIbx-F4xG9xlkBOaeulYPwuXuOa79WlVi-gWXxkZlmNMfTHhucFRfuCQBvoOQcu32YdEosTWkU_8-svG618EMVXno030pCwQNXnjDVar5EX4SLv72NDjHg777Q5UAI/s1600/selah8.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwgosA7XyZJbaCZhfjV_5q3jUblmUvNrzjPoRpuqFGDT1IuoABYuKy7cExPF7o_1dgWnLtkmS2siuWmIRm-rDJC_CdiuUvZeb806YlK8XFrJB49pAm8JUwlAxQv83tHszSf5K6fhOpy8/s1600/selah9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwgosA7XyZJbaCZhfjV_5q3jUblmUvNrzjPoRpuqFGDT1IuoABYuKy7cExPF7o_1dgWnLtkmS2siuWmIRm-rDJC_CdiuUvZeb806YlK8XFrJB49pAm8JUwlAxQv83tHszSf5K6fhOpy8/s1600/selah9.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
You are also so creative. You are gifted in working with your hands and I am so impressed by the artwork you create. You are truly a lovely artist. I can't wait to watch you develop your skills as you grow!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN60jVxS9OpQZ0DQWFMWnrS9pR0jFxlePwXMf_DnilKLA5TCbuX1H7hIK9dMHNmuDMG8UkhrFaXuPNF5ggzp_-B6QK8jkfGYKnVu5MZA5Bj2tedFzM6bcIVqdloGRIBuW5XLDV2m43ghU/s1600/selah5bw.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN60jVxS9OpQZ0DQWFMWnrS9pR0jFxlePwXMf_DnilKLA5TCbuX1H7hIK9dMHNmuDMG8UkhrFaXuPNF5ggzp_-B6QK8jkfGYKnVu5MZA5Bj2tedFzM6bcIVqdloGRIBuW5XLDV2m43ghU/s1600/selah5bw.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I think one of the qualities I most admire in you is that you don't give up. Even when something is difficult and doesn't come naturally to you, you always try your best. I love that about you. You teach me to do the same. <br />
<br />
Happy 6th birthday my sweet little lady!<br />
I love you a bushel and a peck.<br />
xoxo<br />
Mommy<br />
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<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-36925568921266382022014-04-12T20:43:00.001-06:002014-04-12T20:43:06.485-06:00Love at Daybreak We sit together on the couch and she starts playing with my hair. Stroking it with her tiny fingers. She leans in close and whispers how beautiful I am.<br />
<br />
Laughing I shoot and miss. Again. With a black controller in my hand I tell him how good he is at this game. He beams and patiently shows me once again- 'A' is to pass. 'X' is to slide. 'B' is to shoot. <br />
<br />
She comes alongside me as I prepare dinner. She asks to help and smiles wide when I tell her to pull up a chair. Together we put this and that into the pot. Together we serve.<br />
<br />
She waits for me in her bed with a book in her hand. I curl up beside her and she starts to read. Some words come easily, others she takes her time to sound out. With each one her confidence grows and I get to share in her joy.<br />
<br />
Tiny everyday miracles. Moments I try hard not to take for granted.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Pm59viv537LAilr4QBu0cAKuHik3cXhd1lJG6p7L2RNRIymm3ORSZ4cWzlVMii-i2AOGRZJrW-5LNRDHNykLURsoWtqvM6yQDaEteYNiVePhbr0A2jssw4FoJ6nIxuK1gJgiJ1rmE4A/s1600/kids.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Pm59viv537LAilr4QBu0cAKuHik3cXhd1lJG6p7L2RNRIymm3ORSZ4cWzlVMii-i2AOGRZJrW-5LNRDHNykLURsoWtqvM6yQDaEteYNiVePhbr0A2jssw4FoJ6nIxuK1gJgiJ1rmE4A/s1600/kids.jpg" height="423" width="640" /></a> <br />
<br />
His hair falling wild across his forehead.<br />
Her sweet giggles as I sing her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k5ZS1hwi3U">our bedtime song</a>.<br />
The way her socks are always mismatched.<br />
How she'll hug my waist and rest her head against me.<br />
His love for his baby sister.<br />
The bracelets they make me.<br />
The bubbles in the bath.<br />
The wind blown hair.<br />
The silly songs.<br />
The laughter.<br />
The tears.<br />
<br />
As a mom, I am given these tiny miracles.<br />
They are my gift. <br />
Every. Single. Day.<br />
Even on hard days.... <br />
<br />
Tomorrow will be one of those hard days. April 13th will mark 22 years since I lost my mom to cancer.<br />
This day is always hard.... and yet for the past few years it has also been a day that God has used to awakened my mama heart. <br />
It it like a beautiful messy day of grief and thanksgiving. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="color: black;"><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17">Tonight, as I think about my mom and the great joy it is BE a mom, this is my prayer: </span></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #45818e;"><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17">"Surprise us with love at daybreak;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17">then we’ll skip and dance all the day long.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17">Make up for the bad times with some good times;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17">we’ve seen enough evil to last a lifetime.<span style="background-color: #0b5394;"><span></span></span></span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17">Let your servants see what you’re best at—</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17">the ways you rule and bless your children.</span></span><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17"> </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #45818e;"><span class="text Ps-90-12-Ps-90-17">And let the loveliness of our Lord, our God, rest on us"</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #45818e;"><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span></span>Psalm 90:14-17 (The Message) </span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="color: black;">Oh God, may it be so.... Surprise my family with love at daybreak. Make up for the bad times with some good times. Let us see what you are best at. The way you rule and bless your children.</span> </span><br />
<br />
I am going to spend the day with my eyes wide open. I am going to hug tighter. Laugh longer. Listen harder. Love deeper.<br />
<br />
And one day.....one day, I will share these tiny miracles with her too.<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-43661316338985060522013-10-25T10:20:00.001-06:002015-05-10T20:29:47.982-06:00Date Your Spouse ChallengeIt's 8:15am. I've been lying in bed for over an hour willing myself back to sleep. Finally gave in and snuck out of the quiet room, leaving a peaceful dreamer beside me.<br />
I can't sleep in anymore. I am officially old. <br />
<br />
This is our last day here. A week away in the mountains without our children. And though I have missed them, I wish we had a few more days here....<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
I realized this week that I truly do miss my husband.<br />
Back home we see each other every day.<br />
With a quick kiss here, a (kid interrupted) conversation there, a snuggle on the couch after dinner, a "hey, how was your day"....<br />
<br />
But this alone together week has been so wonderful.<br />
So needed. <br />
Time to just "be" together.<br />
Sitting side by side reading.<br />
Hiking in the morning air.<br />
Late night swims and hot tubs.<br />
Holding hands browsing mountain shops. <br />
Cooking meals for two.<br />
Quiet dinners out.<br />
No schedule.<br />
No set plans. <br />
Just laughing. Joking. Loving.<br />
Time to be reminded of why we chose one another. <br />
<br />
It has been such a gift.<br />
<br />
We have been married for 13 years and this is the first time we have been away alone for a week. I know that we are spoiled. To have family who spent the last week with our four joys. I know four kids is a lot..... I also know that this relationship, this marriage, is a treasure. In this season of dirty diapers, and school papers, and sports games, and Saturday morning pajamas, and Friday night movies, and bedtime stories, and homemade cookies... my MARRIAGE is important. It's ok to ask for help. It's ok to set aside time for the two of you. It's ok to fall in love all over again.<br />
<br />
It's ok and needed.<br />
<br />
I have an idea...a little challenge. It's for my marriage and for yours. It's for those of us in the trenches of raising babies and those of you with school aged kids. It's for those who's babies are now teenagers and those who's birds have flown from the nest. It's for any and all marriages.<br />
<br />
One day a month let's date our spouses. Let's take the time to put it on the calendar. Let's look forward to it. Let's put in a little effort. <br />
It doesn't have to be fancy. It doesn't have to cost anything. If you can get a baby sitter great. If you can't- put those kids to bed early and make a romantic dinner for two.<br />
<br />
Who's with me?<br />
<br />
Please feel free to take this image and use on your posts (if you have a blog) or if you don't have a blog just come back and share in the comments what you ended up doing.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJBXq_SpXSS8LG9Pj6NxuXQa63wry2Msnw0_HNnPQMccO1roc75K6j8BVEiT-j9CWMQcAU63MeCiPaT2rnUm4GG-o4T66FqsZrL3-IaMzDyw8tvWgIALOhZ47G0C8SzVCLQX26hyphenhyphen9hhDo/s1600/date.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJBXq_SpXSS8LG9Pj6NxuXQa63wry2Msnw0_HNnPQMccO1roc75K6j8BVEiT-j9CWMQcAU63MeCiPaT2rnUm4GG-o4T66FqsZrL3-IaMzDyw8tvWgIALOhZ47G0C8SzVCLQX26hyphenhyphen9hhDo/s1600/date.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
Here are a few fun ideas to get you started :)<br />
<br />
1- Set up a scavenger hunt for your spouse- or find one online and do it together<br />
2- Go for an evening walk<br />
3- Take a trip to your local zoo, aquarium, amusement park- something you'd typically take the kids to but experience it with one another instead<br />
4- Stay home and cook a romantic dinner for two together<br />
5- Stay home and play board games together<br />
6- Drive to a field and star gaze<br />
7- Go fishing or to the driving range<br />
8- Go on a bike ride together<br />
9- Go to a garage sale/ flea market and spend $10 each and see what you can find<br />
10- Go window shopping<br />
11- Go out for ice cream<br />
12- Ice skating/ roller skating<br />
13- Go out to a restaurant and order each others meals<br />
14- Find a quiet place to make out like when you were dating :) <br />
15- Plan a "secret date night" where one of you surprises the other with the activity. So fun to not know where you are going until you get there!<br />
<br />
And here's a link to soooooooo many more great ideas: <a href="http://www.thedatingdivas.com/romantic-rendezvous/101-date-idea-round-ups-the-ultimate-date-night-list/">101 Date Night Ideas </a><br />
<br />
Happy Dating!<br />
xo <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-84007775233113888202013-10-15T14:54:00.000-06:002013-10-15T15:30:18.326-06:00All I Can Do<div style="text-align: left;">
This song came on the radio today. I've heard it before, but today it sunk into my heart. More and more I find myself awakening to the reality that my life is truly beautiful.... a gift. One that I didn't earn or deserve.... <br />
<h1 style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">All I Can Do</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">- <span style="font-size: small;">Mikeschair</span></span></span></span></span></i></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>I could write a love song<br />
Tell You what I think you wanna hear<br />
But it wouldn't be good enough, no<br />
Yeah, I could try so hard<br />
To give it everything I got<br />
But I'm not ever gonna measure up</i></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i><br />
All I can do is thank You<br />
For this life I never deserve<br />
Wanna thank You for the grace<br />
I know I don't have to earn<br />
You love me, You love me<br />
Your mercy is proof<br />
All I can do is say thank You</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>Today all I can do is say thank you.... </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>It would have been easy<br />
But I'm glad You never walked away<br />
'Cause Your love runs deep for me<br />
And I see this beautiful world<br />
And it brings tears to my eyes<br />
And I think it's beautiful to be free</i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Z1OE53ZMApQ" width="560"></iframe>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
I know that it's Mercy that allows me to wake up each day with a
chance to allow Him more room <i>IN</i> my everyday. The more I try to do
things on my own (especially with parenting) the harder I find it. It's
not until I slow down and notice all the little things I have in my life to be thankful for
that I gain perspective.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And so, <a href="http://www.simplysara.ca/2011/03/one-thousand-gifts.html">I continue to count</a>....<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#332. Cleaning the clutter</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#338. Jumping over the cracks</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#345. Frozen gummybears</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#350. Dangling little legs while I carry her sleepy body to bed</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#365. A quiet house</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#401. Her giggle when I wrap her wet hair in a towel on top of her head</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#402. Warranty for broken glasses</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#430. Reading side by side</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#442. Cake in the oven</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#467. Hum of the dishwasher</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#495. Toys strewn about</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#501. Boys who respect</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#506. Grass and bare fee</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#515. Her wild curly hair</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#528. How it takes a village</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#537. Early christmas shopping</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#539. Made up songs</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#541. Anticipation for a week away- just the two of us</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#544. Leaves dancing in the wind</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#548. Playing grounders- not caring about the other parents watching</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#551. His first powerpoint erased. Lessons learned.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
#555. Kisses goodbye in the school drop off line</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>What are you thankful for this week?</b></div>
</div>
Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-64797395818519537482013-10-11T20:36:00.000-06:002013-10-11T21:15:25.615-06:00A New Start<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
This past week I have been getting up at 5 am.<br />
Craziness.<br />
FIVE. IN THE MORNING.<br />
<br />
If you are a morning person you may be thinking, umm.....what's the big deal?<br />
As a night owl I am here to tell you it is a VERY big deal. <br />
<br />
For the past 10 years since having our first baby I have been (unsuccessfully) trying to morph into a morning person. It hasn't been for lack of effort. The intentions are there. The desire clear. I want to love getting up. Somehow though, the morning rolls around and I am just mad that I have to wake up. I wish I could jump out of bed with pep in my step, but alas, I must resort to forcing my body up. Willing my eyes to open. Giving myself just 5 (ahem 15) more minutes.<br />
<br />
Anyways, back to this 5 am madness.<br />
<br />
My husband has been getting up at this insane hour for the past couple of weeks to workout. He does his workout, hops in the shower and is at work by 6:15 am.<br />
And people, he's happier. He's been telling me how awesome it it, how much work he gets done, how much energy he has.... blah, blah, blah.<br />
Well, his peppiness made me a little jealous, so I thought I'd give it a whirl.<br />
<br />
I have been doing this thing for a week now, and here's the deal- he gets up happy, smiling, ready to go.... and I stumble down the stairs with my eyes half open, a little grumpy and angry at him for being so "lalalala!" He laughs at me and says he doesn't understand why I don't love it. I wonder how on earth he can be laughing before the sun is even up. Grrrrrr.<br />
<br />
But here's the fun part....after about 10 minutes of running on the treadmill I start to enjoy it. Gasp. <i>I know</i>. It starts to become enJOYable. And a little smile creeps into my heart and I am actually thankful to be awake.<br />
<br />
Thankful to be able to watch the sun rise.<br />
Thankful to have two hours before we have to head out the door for school. <br />
Thankful that I am not rushing & yelling & rushing & yelling at the kids to get going.<br />
<br />
Funny how the heart shifts as it awakens....<br />
<br />
Our kids get up at 7am. Correction- they are not allowed out of their rooms until 7am. Our spunky 6 year old is usually awake before then- and inevitably wakes her little sister (they share a room) but they have to stay in there until their clock says the magical number seven.<br />
<br />
This getting up at 5 madness has given me an hour of quiet after my workout. An hour in the morning before any of the chaos begins to start my day with Jesus. This morning in the bible study I am doing (<a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Gods-Wisdom-Mothers-Heart-Bible/dp/1418543047/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1381545259&sr=8-8&keywords=god%27s+heart+for+a+mothers+heart">God's Wisdom for a Mother's Heart</a>) I was challenged to write out my goals. As a woman of God. As a wife. As a mom.<br />
<br />
It's amazing how writing things out brings such clarity. Especially for me. Writing has always been a way in which I process. A way in which I learn. A way in which I worship. It's so great to see where I want to be. The areas in which I need to grow. And the ability to look back at where I've been.<br />
<br />
One of the things I wrote down this morning on my list was that I want to get back to writing. I miss this. Tonight a friend started blogging again...and once again I heard His whisper.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure what this is going to look like, but I want to write again.<br />
This, my friends, is a start.<br />
<br />
And I am reminded of the fact that if I didn't push through the hard
(getting up when my body screamed NOOOOO!) I'd miss out on the awesome.<br />
I'd sleep right through the blessing.<br />
<br />
<i>Do you have goals written out? What will your list look like? </i> <br />
<br />
xo<br />
<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-50247692649607437522013-04-21T16:00:00.000-06:002015-05-16T14:44:28.716-06:00Making room- Part TwoI am now more than halfway through my "7" fast.<br />
I have done <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">food, clothing, possessions and today I am finishing <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">up media.</span></span><br />
<br />
(If you haven't read my first post on "7" you can read it by<a href="http://www.simplysara.ca/2013/03/making-room.html"> clicking here</a>) <br />
<br />
I can honestly say that God is wrecking me. It's hard to put into words but I want to document what He is doing in my heart, so I'm going to try and write out what's been going on. Here goes....<br />
<br />
CLOTHING<br />
<br />
Let's start with the clothing. For two weeks I gave myself 7 articles of clothing to choose from.<br />
2 pairs of jeans.<br />
3 t-shirts.<br />
2 sweaters.<br />
(undergarments and winter wear weren't included, in case you were thinking "what the what"!? Ha!)<br />
<br />
As I predicted this particular fast wasn't that difficult for me. In fact I was a little disappointed that it wasn't harder- especially coming off the food fast where I needed to rely daily (sometimes hourly) on God. It's just not an area I struggle in (but trust me- we'll get to the area I MAJORLY struggle with soon...ahem.media.ahem)<br />
<br />
I decided to start the fast without letting Chris know what I was doing... it took him almost a week and a half to notice that I was wearing the same few shirts every day. Hmmm. This either speaks to how much I value clothing and looking presentable to the world, or how much he really looks at me. Ha!<br />
<br />
What I did discover is that even for someone who doesn't struggle with clothing I STILL had a closet full of clothes I don't necessarily need. I managed to pick out 3 large garbage bags packed full to give away.<br />
<br />
POSSESSIONS<br />
<br />
This was the fast I was most excited about when I read the book. See, I love to purge. I mean I reeeeeeaally LOVE to purge. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than seeing a messy disorganized space and imagining what I can do to clean it up!<br />
<br />
I am really not attached to "things" and can happily move them along to another home.<br />
Plus, Chris and I have been really trying to break the spirit of entitlement in our home. Why do we feel like we are so entitled to have all that we have. And our kids? Well, we want better for them. We want them to feel joy and thankfulness in what they do have, rather than be overwhelmed with SO.MUCH.STUFF!<br />
<br />
So we did an experiment. We had the kids bring every single toy they own up to our family room and we dumped them in one large heap. Then I instructed the kids to sit quietly for 5 minutes and look at all their stuff. We sat. We looked. We grieved.<br />
<br />
Finally Abby spoke up "This is too much for one family, Mommy"<br />
Yes, my sweet love. It is. Too much for one family indeed.<br />
<br />
So we organized it all and then we allowed the kids to pick a few items to keep and we got rid of the rest.<br />
Since doing this, I have noticed their imaginations come to life. I hear them making up elaborate games. Even our two year old now crawls around the house pretending to be her big sisters pet doggie.<br />
Gone are the days of "Mom I'm boooooored" followed by "How can you be bored? You have so many things to play with!"<br />
Gone are the days of taking out every single toy and not knowing what to play with.<br />
Gone are the days of confused children standing among the disaster of a mess of toys overwhelmed with where to even start cleaning up.<br />
<br />
Who knew that having less would serve them even more!!<br />
<br />
This week wasn't just about the kids. I went through the kitchen, the bathrooms, the basement... and said goodbye to many an item.<br />
What did I learn? Even though these two weeks were fun for me, they also grieved my heart. How did we ever allow so much stuff? How did I not notice it before? I honestly purge my home at least a couple of times a year and yet, we still had so many things that we could give away. Sigh. My way of thinking has changed. I pray that as we move forward He will continue to quicken my heart when it comes to what we allow into our home. <br />
<br />
Which brings me to the area in which I most struggle...<br />
<br />
MEDIA<br />
<br />
Media. Sigh.<br />
My heart is so grieved after these two weeks. I find it hard to even put into words. How do I explain my heart when it is still so very raw....<br />
<br />
I have always struggled with balance. Finding time for God, time for myself, time to be a good wife, time for my children, time for my business, time for friends...ect. And for a long time I have felt so out of balance. This fast has really been a big piece of finding an answer to that puzzle.<br />
<br />
I have always been aware that I spent way too many hours online. It was an easy escape. A way to somehow feel connected. Inspired. Encouraged. And yet I also discovered after these two weeks that it was a way in which I compared myself. Where I found worth. Where I found a false sense of identity.<br />
<br />
For these past two weeks I have stepped away from Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Blogs. I texted only when necessary. I shut down my computer- only checking email once a day (a necessary thing when running a business and corresponding with the kids school.) Basically I unplugged.<br />
<br />
And man oh man. My heart is torn in a million peices. How on earth did I allow myself to go so far down the rabbit hole? It wasn't until I complete removed these things from my everyday that I realized how much worth I truly do find in them. And really, how much worth is stolen from me at the same time. <br />
<br />
Specifically when it comes to my business. This is when I most often feel like I am not enough. Isn't that just like the enemy? To whisper these cheap lies into our hearts? It's almost like I've become addicted to feeling bad about myself. For me, it's the enemy's playground- stomping all over my insecurities, making me feel like I completely and wholly suck as an artist, as a person.<br />
<br />
It's like I'm an alcoholic. I have become addicted to beating myself up and comparing myself to everyone else. So, like any addict, I need to remove myself from the temptation. It grieves me because I want to be happy for my friends and fellow photographers. I want to be inspired and encouraged by their talent, and yet it's an area in which I can't control (at this point anyways). When I see someone else's work I am jealous and ugly. I start to tell myself how much I suck. How far I have to go. How I'll never measure up.<br />
<br />
It took stepping away from this for two weeks to discover that I was doing it on a daily bases. How refreshing these past two weeks have been- to not feel like I am not enough. It's been like a breath of fresh air.<br />
<br />
So... where do I go from here? <br />
<br />
To be honest, I don't really know. It's going to be a work in progress. I have to continue to remove myself from the temptation of comparing. I am not strong enough yet to jump right back into where I was two weeks ago. So, I am going to continue to limit my exposure. I am going to dive more into his word. I am going to focus in on my own art rather than looking at everyone else. And maybe, eventually, I can open up my heart and not feel like I am not enough.<br />
<br />
I read this last week and it really does sum up what I'm learning...<br />
<br />
"So here's what I want you to do, God helping you. Take your everyday, ordinary life- your sleeping, eating, going to work, and walking around life- and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God has done for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of maturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you." <br />
<br />
Romans 12:1-2 (The Message)<br />
<br />
May it be so.<br />
<br />
xo<br />
<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-42824402783848212952013-03-14T14:52:00.004-06:002015-05-16T14:44:49.390-06:00Slow to speakI saw a post today on a friends facebook page.<br />
She was upset about something someone else did and shared her thoughts on her page. Soon after there were many comments backing her up. Cheering alongside her. Like an angry mob, they joined in her cause.<br />
<br />
But here's the thing. I didn't agree with her.<br />
<br />
I even started to write out a comment, simply pointing out that there was a different side to the coin.... but then I took a second, thought about it, and deleted it. What did I hope to accomplish? Would I start an ugly debate, and fuel the already angry flames?<br />
<br />
And then I got to thinking. Really. Why do we have to be so mean to each other? Why do we come down on other parents when we don't always know the whole picture? When we don't fully understand. Sometimes I think we are so wrapped up in our own emotions that we don't stop to think about how what we say can affect others. How it can hurt them.<br />
<br />
The more I think about this, the more I can see past this particular incident and right into my very own heart, where I am mean. And judgmental. And critical. And harsh. Not always out in the open, but in my heart of hearts I can be ugly.<br />
<br />
And yet, I feel a shifting. An awareness. A light bulb turning on. He's revealing the ugly in me. Not to feel bad about it, or like there is no hope for me, but rather to set me free from the bondage of fear. And insecurity. And unforgivness. And judgment. And anger. Because that's exactly what it is. A bondage. No one can be happy and angry at the same time. Full of joy and full of judgment at the same time. And which would we rather be.....?<br />
<br />
This is my prayer today. For me. For you..... May we all be quick to listen. Slow to speak. Slow to become angry. (James 1:19)<br />
<br />
Grace.<br />
He's there to cover all.<br />
<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-17282390830095349282013-03-12T12:17:00.003-06:002015-05-16T14:44:59.948-06:00Making roomFor a long time I have felt unsettled in my heart.<br />
It's been too hard to explain it and so I haven't really tried to write about it here. I haven't even really tried to talk about it with many people. And when I do, it seems to come out all wrong.<br />
<br />
This morning I read this in my devotions and it just so perfectly explains the inner battle I have been having. <br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
The priorities I have in my life are not lining up with how I spend my time.<br />
<br />
I did an exercise a few months back where I wrote out what I thought my priorities were and then in the next column I wrote out what a typical day looked like and how I spent my time. The two lists did not match up. I was wasting away my days. Not pouring into what my priorities were "suppose" to be, but rather into meaningless, wasteful things.<br />
<br />
And so I have been on a journey to figure this all out.<br />
Last month after a sweet friend recommended it, I started reading the book 7 by Jen Hatmaker.<br />
<br />
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigW2Orfa819ifVjeecdK_WPWar402GlqQIjwjYFa2_-78SGu2BpFupiNBZwD8KTaAZCeADQVrlTn6fk6F4NG3GnnhcsDzYfh58aXFnOOrPq3AnjSroLH0S4Pjq4t9UtPxm6-e6q17eghY/s1600/seven2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigW2Orfa819ifVjeecdK_WPWar402GlqQIjwjYFa2_-78SGu2BpFupiNBZwD8KTaAZCeADQVrlTn6fk6F4NG3GnnhcsDzYfh58aXFnOOrPq3AnjSroLH0S4Pjq4t9UtPxm6-e6q17eghY/s1600/seven2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The concept of 7 is to fast 7 areas of excess in our lives (one fast per month) in order to make more room for God.<br />
<br />
More room.<br />
<br />
Maybe my heart has been out of balance because is is so jam packed with excess.<br />
It's been so cluttered with "stuff".<br />
<br />
I read the book from cover to cover in 2 days. And got excited.<br />
Here I have some practical ways to walk out this unsettled feeling I have in my heart.<br />
<br />
I decided to do each fast for 2 weeks. 14 days of giving up a specific area in my life that I can then allow more room for his spirit.<br />
<br />
Food.<br />
Clothing.<br />
Possessions.<br />
Media.<br />
Waste.<br />
Spending.<br />
Stress.<br />
<br />
Seven areas in my life that I can take a closer look at and re-arrange priorities in. <br />
<br />
First up was Food. I just finished this 2 week fast on Sunday.<br />
<br />
I've always had the intention of feeding my family well. I have always wanted to serve healthy, wholesome meals. But the reality has been that more often than not our diet consisted of processed junk. Lack of planning. Convenience. And really just laziness all contributed to our multiple times per week drive-thru meals and phone calls to order pizza. Sigh.<br />
<br />
For the two weeks I choose 7 food "groups" that I would be allowed to have:<br />
Fruit<br />
Vegetables<br />
Meat<br />
Dairy <br />
Nuts<br />
Weird flours to bake with (almond, quinoa, flaxseed)<br />
Tea<br />
<br />
A few things you need to know. I love pop. Especially fountain pop. Preferably from a drive thru.<br />
I also love chocolate. As in I need to have it in some form or another every single day.<br />
Candy and chips and pretzels and ice cream were our treats of choice for after the kids were in bed.<br />
<br />
For two weeks I had to say goodbye to the McDonald's line up, the daily chocolate bars I once
enjoyed. I bid farewell to candy, chips, ice cream and all things
sugary and processed. <br />
<br />
It's weird. I thought that these two weeks were going to be torture. That I wouldn't be able to live through them, but in fact they have been wonderful.<br />
<br />
Some nights (due to planning) turned out awesome. And some
nights we didn't eat until after 7pm, but all
in all I am proud to say we didn't drive through one line up to pick up
food. All of our meals were home cooked, without sugar (and the first week without wheat- but that's a whole other story!) healthy and delicious! <br />
<br />
Through these past two weeks God has shown me a lot. I believe it's because I have allowed him room. In my everyday. So many opportunities these past
couple of weeks to speak with him. Focus my attention to Him. Pray for
family & friends, and actually see some of those prayers
answered. It's been so good that to have these opportunities where I would normally indulge and instead take a
step back and spend time in prayer rather than stuffing my face. HaHa.
God is fun.<br />
<br />
What have I learned?<br />
<br />
* I can cook healthy, yummy, pretty meals that my family actually enjoy.<br />
<br />
* I have more energy when I eat healthy- go figure!<br />
<br />
* Saying no to sugar was not as hard as I thought.<br />
<br />
* Habits can be broken.<br />
<br />
* Making our own granola bars and fruit roll ups is fun :)<br />
<br />
* The kids love eating healthy.<br />
<br />
* I emotionally eat. I happy eat, sad eat, mad eat, stress eat....
basically any form of emotion is covered in food. Rather than eating for
health, I fuel for emotions. This is a work in progress.<br />
<br />
* And the biggest thing I have learned??......I feel entitled- even in the
food I eat. Like somehow I "deserve" to eat what I want when I want to because I
give "so much" to my family, and I deserve some small reward. Right?! Yikes!<br />
<br />
I have allow entitlement in through food and it just grows from there to other areas of my heart. What a crazy concept. I didn't even realize that I was doing this. Thankful that He opens our eyes to areas in our hearts that He wants to touch.<br />
<br />
It's surprising, after these two weeks I'm not even really craving all the terrible stuff I used to put in my
body. For me this fast has been about taking a step back and seeing what
food has done to my body. That we really are temples of the Holy Spirit
and that the way we eat can in fact be a form of worship. Craziness.<br />
<br />
I am not going to swear off all the yummy sugary treats forever, but my way of thinking has changed. These treats will be just that- treats. Something to enjoy every once and awhile, not everyday. I am excited to continue to serve my family healthy home cooked meals and enjoy the fact that every once and awhile we will splurge on a meal out. Moderation. It's a good thing.<br />
<br />
Thankful to be on this journey of allowing Him room.... <br />
<br />
xoxoSimply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-10554374195977069462013-03-06T08:48:00.002-07:002015-05-16T14:45:12.373-06:00Online Beginner Photography ClassAfter many inquiries, I have been working hard at making the beginner
photography class I teach available to everyone- including those who
live far, far away! I am so excited to share that it is now available to attend online! And from now until tonight at 8pm you'll save $25 off the registration fee!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsYQKyT2tBlWy5QI98dLh9Xky_fto2iv6ckYRxP56YaUlUlMszPbJzryE9be3WGgnOCSHgVzbQzz2kzshyphenhyphenq3agSa8aNZ_G-7LjR2jJhfh5EUrnwwhCT5uIqJAiOllofwJY0NrJasf9qI/s1600/24hrsale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsYQKyT2tBlWy5QI98dLh9Xky_fto2iv6ckYRxP56YaUlUlMszPbJzryE9be3WGgnOCSHgVzbQzz2kzshyphenhyphenq3agSa8aNZ_G-7LjR2jJhfh5EUrnwwhCT5uIqJAiOllofwJY0NrJasf9qI/s640/24hrsale.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This online class is for parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles {really
anyone & everyone} who has a nice camera and wants to learn how to
use it to it’s full potential. We will cover the technical side of
photography- how to use all those fancy dials, but also it’s a class
that will push your creativity and help you to begin to see the world
differently. It will challenge you to think about what your pictures say
and help you to move from taking snapshots to really capturing
memories!<br />
<br />
DETAILS:<br />
Each week we will cover a different topic. Students will receive a
password to view an online video each week and will have access to these
videos for the duration of the course + 2 weeks after the course has
ended. You will also receive a PDF download to have to be able to
reference back all that you have learned. After each video is released
students may email me any questions they may have on the topic for that
week. Often learning comes from the questions someone else may have and I
want us all to be encouraged and learn together, so relevant FAQs will
be made into a PDF download as well.<br />
<br />
Week One: Exposure (aperture, shutter speed, ISO and how to use them all together)<br />
<br />
Week Two: Your equipment- camera dials, lens choices- how to decide what you need & when, with a review on exposure.<br />
<br />
Week Three: Light & Composition<br />
<br />
Week Four: Thinking Creatively (how to take better images, ideas on
different projects to train your eye to see differently, practical ways
to get authentic expressions from your kids- I have four kids myself and
have a few tricks up my sleeve!)<br />
<br />
The first online class will be in May. The videos will be released
each Wednesday- May 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd. Videos will remain up for
viewing until June 12th, 2013.<br />
<br />
COST:<br />
Regular price:<br />
Single seat- <br />
<del datetime="2013-03-06T02:41:16+00:00">$150 (+gst)</del><br />
Booking with a friend (each)- <br />
<del datetime="2013-03-06T02:41:16+00:00">$125 (+gst)</del><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: red;">**24 hour sale from 8pm on Tuesday March 5th, 2013- 8pm on Wednesday March 6th, 2013.</span><br />
</strong><br />
Single seat- $125 (+gst)<br />
Booking with a friend (each)- $100 (+gst)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sarahaynesphotography.com/?page_id=696">Please click here to book your seat! </a>Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5449551179146558035.post-87150677847524263442013-02-02T09:05:00.000-07:002015-05-16T14:45:37.887-06:00#28lovefilleddays<span class="userContent">Are you on <a href="http://instagram.com/sdhaynes/">Instagram</a>?</span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent">If you are I'd love for you to join me in a
little project for the month of February. Everyday this month I am going
to take a picture of something I love. I want to be intentional and
really take the time to slow down and "notice" the many lov<span class="text_exposed_show">ely things in my life :) </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">I'm using the hashtag #28lovefilleddays.<br /> </span></span><br />
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">If you want to join in please feel free! Just take a picture of
something you love and use the hashtag in your comment. I'd love to see
all the things you love this month too! <br /> <br /> Here's my baby. I love that she loves books as much as her mama does :)</span></span><br />
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show"><br /></span></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6bUJMEpJttHiMJ2OT1PMTO3EOibjulI6qc2PQHpCHZfTqKaXSq2Di9ggd5LifcoSsc8ARSHGQdnHMnYJqfD1IjVbqdxeXfN4AnpYKrQbde3eXipIylqoOuPUN-E6Z94YwjVDIVx3yXkE/s1600/IMG_5060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6bUJMEpJttHiMJ2OT1PMTO3EOibjulI6qc2PQHpCHZfTqKaXSq2Di9ggd5LifcoSsc8ARSHGQdnHMnYJqfD1IjVbqdxeXfN4AnpYKrQbde3eXipIylqoOuPUN-E6Z94YwjVDIVx3yXkE/s640/IMG_5060.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show"><br /></span></span>Simply Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03904562519906792897noreply@blogger.com2