Musings of a Mommy

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T20:42:00.005-06:00

We hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Love-Hate Relationship

2009-01-01T20:32:00.003-06:00

This blog and I have a love-hate relationship. I can't even count the number of times I have logged on to delete the entire thing, but obviously haven't. I know that I have a lot to say and many pictures to post, but I just don't have the TIME! However, when family was here over the holidays, it was brought to my attention that I really do have people that stop by to look at pictures of the kids and see what we are up to. So, for now, I won't delete the darn thing. I can't promise that I will be better at posting, but I will TRY!

Thanksgiving at Garner State Park

2008-12-01T10:02:00.001-06:00

Been working hard.....

2008-11-20T15:22:00.021-06:00

A few more crafts for your viewing pleasure. Some were done here at home, and others at preschool, but all were great fun! Oh, on that note, very few of these are actually my idea. I am a craft copier! I am not sure where I picked up all of the ideas, but I don't take any credit for them!

This is a clay pot painted black and turned upside down on a piece of construction paper. It made the cutest pilgrim hat for Aidan's Thanksgiving Feast at preschool.

On this turkey hat, you write what the kids say they are thankful for on each feather!

We LOVE this one. Punch a hole in the top on the cup and run a string down the inside. Hot glue the string to the top of the cup and tie it to a small piece of sponge on the end. Dampen the sponge and run it in short jerky motions down the string. Sounds just like a "gobble"!

These are the last 2 we will do next week from The Crafty Crow:

I am going to use coffee filters for the feathers and let the kids paint them using water colors. They like watching the colors bleed down to the bottom!

With this one, I will put several dots of watered down paint on paper and let the kids blow through a straw to disperse the paint. It produces the same look as the spinning.

All Boy

2008-11-20T15:18:00.004-06:00

Aidan LOVES climbing this tree. Lately, he has been swinging off the branches like Tarzan and laughs himslef silly as he flies to the ground. With every flight, my stomach turns and my heart skips a beat but I know he is just being a BOY!

Delicious Dinner!

2008-11-18T13:28:00.006-06:00

I made this salad for dinner last night and it was YUMMY! I served it with garlic bread sticks and called it a meal. It was a nice change from the hearty soups and stews that come with the season and SUPER easy. Click on the link and ENJOY!

Italian-Marinated Vegetable Salad

Thanksgiving Reads

2008-11-14T12:40:00.013-06:00

These are a few of the book we have been reading this week! The kids have really enjoyed each one and love doing the crafts to go with them. As soon as we are done, I will post more of what they have been working on!

Turkeys

2008-11-12T12:50:00.004-06:00

We are having so much fun learning about Thanksgiving and making fun crafts! I usually don't post about crafts, but lately Emma and Aidan have been really excited and proud of their work.

Yesterday we read A Plump and Perky Turkey and made our own paper plate turkeys afterwards (another idea from No Time For Flashcards). The kids (and mom I must say) loved gluing the tissue paper feathers and requested the book to be read several times throughout the day! FUN!

Crafty

2008-11-11T09:49:00.005-06:00

The kids and I did a fun, super easy fall craft yesterday. I got the cute idea from No Time For Flashcards.

We read

I stenciled leaves on some construction paper, then had the kids decorate them with fall colors. We cut them out and then wrote on the back what we are thankful for. Now, they decorate our dinner table!

Happy Birthday Princess!

2008-11-11T09:31:00.005-06:00

My baby girl turned 3 this past Sunday! She adds such joy and spunk to our house and I pray we have many more birthday celebrations to come. WE LOVE YOU EMMA!

Clean House and Clean Heart

2008-11-11T08:43:00.004-06:00

This is a devotion I enoyed this morning from Proverbs 31 Ministries.....cleaning time!

November 10, 2008

Clean House and Clean Heart
Tracie Miles

“Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me.”
Psalm 51:10 (NLT)

Devotion:
I was tired of tripping over shoes, left over belongings, stray hangers, and dirty clothes!

I finally admitted I had to clean out my closet. After hours of sorting clothes, I stepped back to admire my clean, neatly organized closet. I breathed a sigh of relief and reveled in my success. Although it took quite a long time, it was well worth the effort. I could hardly wait to get up the next morning and enter my tidy closet, looking for my clothes with a fresh, new perspective.

Cleaning is something we all prefer to avoid, but its something that is necessary. When it comes to cleaning house, the more we neglect doing what is needed, the worse things get, and the longer it will to take to get clean again. That was the case with my closet.

As I admired my coordinated closet, I considered how our hearts are like messy houses at times. On the outside we look in order, but on the inside our hearts are full of clutter – clutter such as unforgiveness, bitterness, self-condemnation, sadness, lack of joy, worry and much more. All this clutter makes for a huge mess behind the closed doors of our hearts. Just as putting off cleaning our homes creates chaos around us, the longer we allow our hearts to stay cluttered and messy, the more messes our bad habits make in our lives. Think about the havoc negative self-talk, selfishness, or grumpy attitudes have caused in the past.

I felt God nudging me to do a little house cleaning, or should I say, heart cleaning. For example, in a house with two young teen daughters with changing hormones, busy social lives, and lots of drama, sometimes I have to remind myself that they need a happy mommy, not a grumpy mommy. They need a patient mom, not an impatient mom. They need a forgiving mom, not a mom who constantly reminds them of their mistakes. My husband needs a happy wife. My friends need a faithful friend. My church needs a willing servant.

The mentality of cleaning up our heart can apply to every area of our life – marriage, family, work, relationships, and even self-image. Let’s face it, as nice as a clean house is, it is more important to have a clean heart!

Today’s verse reminds us how we should desire a clean heart. When David prays this prayer, he desires a new heart, a clean heart, and a spirit that desires to be like Christ. David knew that the only way he could achieve a clean heart, was through the power of Christ. So it is the same with us. Therefore, we must ask God to create a new heart, a clean heart, within us and believe that as a result, our spirits will be renewed.

Maybe you know you have some serious house cleaning to do, but could it be you have some heart cleaning to do as well?

Dear Lord, I seek Your face today and ask You to restore in me a clean heart. Help me to rid of all the clutter in my heart which is keeping me at a distance from You, and preventing others from seeing You working in and through me. Infuse me with a desire to maintain a clean heart throughout each day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
Cleaning up the Clutter by Emilie Barnes

My Heart’s At Home: Becoming the Intentional Mom Your Family Needs by Jill Savage

Visit Tracie Miles’ blog

Application Steps:
Pick an area of your home to de-clutter this weekend. As you clean, pray for God to purify your heart.

Reflections:
What has been burdening your heart lately? Is there some unforgiveness there? Bitterness? Or doubts?

Ask God to renew your perspective and help you begin the cleaning process.

Power Verses:
Jeremiah 17:9-10, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? ‘I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.’" (NIV)

© 2008 by Tracie Miles. All rights reserved.

Yummy Treats!

2008-11-06T12:13:00.006-06:00

There are some GREAT recipies in this holiday edition of Kraft Food and Family. Enjoy!

Ooh La La

2008-11-06T11:44:00.008-06:00

Grandma sent cupcakes home for the kids last weekend. They are from the fabulous

Ooh La La Bakery here in Katy. Watching them go after these enormous cupcakes was too cute!

Fall Festival

2008-11-06T11:36:00.010-06:00

Air Show

2008-11-06T11:31:00.007-06:00

Stephen took Aidan to the air show a couple of weekends ago.......they had a blast!

Preschool

2008-09-18T20:34:00.013-05:00

It took me a few days, but here are my babies ready for their first day of preschool last Monday. They love their teachers and can't wait to go back. Wow, what a difference a year makes.....

This year

Last Year

AM Slumber Party

2008-09-18T20:34:00.012-05:00

A few days ago I woke up to an interesting site. Aidan had made his way into Emma's room at some point in the wee morning hours and they decided to have a little slumber party in her room. Notice how they completely dismantled the rocking chair to make Aidan comfy! Toys were everywhere, blinds were open, and the room was filled with the sweetest laughter. They had a blast....sneaky little things!

Still Here!

2008-08-18T14:59:00.015-05:00

Yes, I know. It has been a LONG while since I have been in blog land! There are so many reasons for my hiatus and honestly (given that there is actually someone who reads this) most would be quite boring to you.

For me personally, this has unexpectedly been a very painful and emotional summer. I feel like I have so much to say and not one clue how to put it all into words. So, I will turn the attention elsewhere....kids!

As for the children's summer, I am afraid it has been a bit boring, but I can confidently say that they get an A+ in perfecting their pretend play skills!

Here are some of our summer pics........

I don't know that ANY of this ice cream made it in her mouth!

Beach Fun!

So, these last three pictures are a perfect example of the extreme difference in personalities of my children. When given a large piece of butcher paper, colored shaving cream and a brush (or spatula that Aidan requested) this is what happens. You have Aidan, who paints once color at a time ON THE PAPER. No messes, no paint anywhere but the PAPER. Then, there is sweet Emma. Given all the same materials, she decides to ditch them ALL and make her body the canvas! She had a BLAST. Until clean up time that is!

Worship & Workout

2008-07-21T18:52:00.004-05:00

This is a GREAT walking DVD that sets the entire workout to worshiping the Lord! As you walk, you listen to Christian music and are also guided by the instructor in worshiping and giving thanks to God! So, if you are like me and need to get your exercise done at home this is a WONDERFUL way to accomplish a 2 mile walk.

Great Reads!

2008-07-21T14:03:00.008-05:00

These are 2 books that I have just read over the past few weeks. I would highly recommend both!

What the Bible Says About Healthy Living

By Rex Russell

The Yada Yada Prayer Group

By Neta Jackson

Encouraging Words....

2008-07-07T18:13:00.002-05:00

Under God's Mercy

Here is the really liberating truth: Everything is not going to get fixed and healed in this lifetime—that’s what Heaven is for. You have to decide what can go under the mercy of God (not to be confused with “under the rug”—because when stuff is swept under the rug, it always sneaks back out and eventually makes a gargantuan mountain that you can’t navigate around). Under the mercy of God is a place where you put things when you know that they are not going to be healed in this lifetime. These are the things you can’t fix in [other people] and they just need mercy. Grace. Forgiveness. And that is a perfectly okay place to start building something new—on the platform of mercy, forgiveness, and grace. . .

We all have “junk in the trunk”—the baggage and hurt that accompanies living. Your choice is whether you will put it up in the front seat, ask God to help you deal with it, allow Him to heal you from it, release it, and even laugh about it . . . or leave it in the trunk to rot and make you sick.

Anita Renfroe

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Excerpted from Glimmers of Grace: Sparkling Reminders to Encourage You
© 2008 Women of Faith, Inc. All rights reserved.

Cardboard Testimonies

2008-07-03T19:07:00.002-05:00

I saw this and thought it was AMAZING! Enjoy!

Morning Manna

2008-06-25T07:46:00.002-05:00

Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.

Hosea 6:3

Battlefield of the Mind

2008-06-24T11:16:00.003-05:00

What a great reminder my devotional was this morning. It is from Joyce Meyer's Battlefield of the Mind series.

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 2:5

Joyce writes:

If a person is thinking according to the mind of Christ, what will his thoughts be like? They will be positive, that's for sure. Enough can never be said about the power of being positive. God is positive, and if you and I want to flow with Him, we must get on the same wavelength and begin to think positively, I am not talking about exercising mind control, but simply about being an all-around, positive person.

Warrior Aidan

2008-06-23T13:19:00.007-05:00

Aidan started a new camp at church today called Warrior Prince Academy "Wearing the Armor." This is a camp where boys learn leadership development, chivalry, and scriptural truths of who they are in Christ Jesus. He had a great time today and has a new "Armor of God" set that he is super excited about!

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Ephesians 6:10-18

Playing @ Peckham Park

2008-06-20T14:47:00.014-05:00

We had a great time playing with friends today at the park. The heat didn't hold them back!

Hey Mom!

Weee!

Big Girl Swing

Bubble Time

This thing isn't going anywhere!

Buddies...Jake and Aidan

Riding the dino

Look mom, no hands!

Little Monkey

Buzzin around

More of the Story

2008-06-19T14:18:00.013-05:00

Being prepped for a Cesarean is something I was definitely familiar with. It was a given with each pregnancy due to certain complications. I was prepared for the nerves, most likely the vomiting, the sting of the amniocentesis, the horrible antacid, pokes of needles, fabulous wardrobe and all. Walking to the OR and laughing with the anesthesiologist that had been with me from the beginning was comforting and familiar as well. I was filled with such excitement and anticipation to meet our third baby, Noah, just as I had been with Aidan and Emma.

Emotionally however, this birth was much different. I knew, because we had made the decision for my tubes to be tied, that this precious boy was our last. I knew that my surgery would be longer than normal which meant too much time would pass before I could meet our new addition. Everything had been explained to me in the doctors office the week before. How the procedure would be done, the amount of time it would take, how it would change my recovery. Regardless of what I already knew, I couldn't contain the tears. Mostly tears of joy, but also tears of finality. Before proceeding, the doctor asked if I wanted to go ahead with the tubal ligation. With a split second thought of saying no, I swallowed the lump and said yes. Aside from the painful reminders, I didn't go back and think about our decision much after that. What was done was done and we were truly blessed.

Most of you know the story from this point. We had 39 wonderful days with Noah and then he went to be with the Lord. It didn't take long before we were not only grieving over the loss of our son, but also the decision we had made in the OR that early morning of December 26th. I know without a doubt that the Lord is capable of anything, however, it doesn't mean that our hearts were not terribly saddened by the obstacle we would now face if we wanted to have another child.

As time passed, Stephen and I knew we would love to be blessed with another child. We wished we hadn't opted for my tubal, but understood it was part of our journey. After MANY months of praying, researching, praying, and saving we felt the Lord guiding us in a very specific direction.

Last month, we flew to North Carolina where a well known specialist performed a surgery to repair my tubes. We were beside ourselves to learn that he was able to successfully repair one side! PRAISE! We flew home with an abundance of gratitude on our hearts and many new hopes and dreams for our family.

We praise God for blessing us with the ability to have this surgery and for the new joy that he has placed in our hearts. We are so thankful, that on this path of unknowns, he walks ahead, with and behind us. So, the Lord begins a new journey in us. We have no idea where it takes us or what His plans are, but Stephen and I trust His path and will choose to walk it.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Morning Manna

2008-06-18T07:14:00.009-05:00

The Love of God

From The One Year Book of Hope by Nancy Guthrie

I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts as you trust in him. May your roots go down deep into the soil of god's marvelous love. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.

Ephesians 3:17-20

Morning Manna

2008-06-13T08:23:00.006-05:00

Because of the Lord's faithful love, we do not perish, for His mercies never end.

Lamentations 3:22

Paparazzi

2008-06-12T13:42:00.005-05:00

OK, so some of you may be thinking that I am turning into the paparazzi mama, and I have to admit it is true. I realized how LITTLE I was using my camera and how quickly the kids are growing! To add to my camera compulsiveness, the kids actually ask to have their picture taken. So, once again, here are my cuties before we went to church last night.....

Of course they never BOTH want their picture taken at the same time!

Now he does!

Handy Man and the Dancer

2008-06-12T12:58:00.006-05:00

Wow, this has been a full morning! The Handy Man came to fix odds and ends around the house and we took a princess to her new dance class. Although Aidan may not like it one day, I just could NOT resist the photo op. Emma enjoyed the first 30 minutes of dance, but decided to have a melt down with the last 15! Thank goodness her sweet freind Sarah Jane was with her!

Sweet Ballerinas

Ready for ballet class!

Ready for work Mom!

Blessings

2008-06-11T13:37:00.005-05:00

She looked so sweet...I couldn't resist!

My little man on the way to church. He as SO excited about promoting to "big boy" Sunday school!

2008-06-11T13:07:00.004-05:00

For anyone interested in a summer bible study, LPM is facilitating this one via the blog world! This is going to be a great experience and I can't wait to see what the Lord is going to do. Go to Living Proof Ministries to find out more!

Marker Madness

2008-06-06T17:09:00.006-05:00

I went to make a phone call today and while I was occupied (for LITERALLY a couple of minutes) my sweet little Emma got a hold of a marker. This is her masterpiece.

Notice the feet?

Mommy is making her clean it off!

Outside Fun

2008-06-05T14:25:00.009-05:00

Painting and drawing

Stephen's chalk art!

My little monkey!

OK, so if you haven't noticed, my son is in full winter attire in the July afternoon heat! It was SO not worth the battle!

She IS the tether ball!

Swim Lessons

2008-06-05T14:10:00.011-05:00

We started swim lessons this week! YEAH! We have had a few issues, but for the most part they are both doing well. Aidan loves his teacher and has done a great job doing what she asks. Emma cried a bit Monday, did a great job Tuesday and Wednesday, and wouldn't even get near the water today! Go figure! The pictures are a bit hazy because they are taken through the window, but I couldn't risk them seeing me and then wanting to come inside!

He LOVES the goggles!

Little fish!

Diving for toys.

Emma waiting patiently for Aidan to finish!

This is how Emma spends the majority of her lesson!

YEAH! She finally made it off the steps!

Saturday Splashing

2008-06-05T13:58:00.011-05:00

We took the kids to La Centera to play in the water a couple weekends ago. The kids had a blast, but I was a nervous wreck! This place is SO conducive to an ER visit! I am not sure why the huge rocks were placed all around the wet, slippery ground, but in my opinion it wasn't thought through very well. Regardless, the kids had a blast and it was nice to get out for a while. We left with only minor bumps, bruises and scratches!

Slipin' and Slidin'

2008-06-05T13:42:00.009-05:00

Well, summer is definitely here and we wanted the kids to have a new water toy for the backyard. On a stroll through the store, Stephen spotted a slip and slide and thought it would be perfect. I have to say that I had my reservations. All I could picture was screaming and crying from little bodies plopping on the ground. What a relief when I heard giggles instead! At the moment, those are only coming from Aidan, as Emma won't have anything to do with it. That may be because her daddy decided to play a game of kiddie bowling to get them to the end of the slide, of which she DID NOT like! Oh well, she will come around. But for now, I only have pictures to share of Aidan slipin' and slidin'.

This is the "bowling" I mentioned earlier!

Aidan's Car

2008-06-05T13:35:00.004-05:00

Ok, so for those who know about Aidan's car, here is the update:

HE HAS NOT DRIVEN IT YET!!!

Aidan got this car in April for his birthday because he LOVED the one that his freind had. For some reason, he has a fit with his own and refuses to drive it.

It is about to make Stephen CRAZY because he was so excited to give it to him, but hopefully it will click soon and he will get in and go!

School Days

2008-05-21T06:26:00.011-05:00

Well, it is official. School's out for summer!

My sweet Aidan only has one more year of preschool and then he is off to Kindergarten. I just can't believe it. He had an incredible year at Holy Covenant with his teacher Mrs. Mary. I want to say this was her 15th (maybe more) year there and she truly wowed me with her gifts and abilities to grow her precious class. Aidan absolutely LOVED her and she was able to help him in ways that I didn't even recognize he needed. I honestly don't know who is going to miss her more, me or Aidan!

Princess Emma had an wonderful year as well. The level of nurturing and love that she received from Mrs. Penny and Mrs. Brenda continues to blow me away. These 2 ladies TRULY love what they do! Emma was in the "Cow" class with all her little cow friends! She got to make more messes in that class than I will probably ever intentionally allow in my home, and she LOVED it. What I love about her class, and Holy Covenant is that they learn everything through playing, dancing, singing, moving, and of course making messes. For any of you that know my daughter, that is her in a nutshell!

This is a picture of their first day of school in the fall. My how they have grown!

And now.......

So now, it is time to put on my thinking cap and pull out the calendar because mama has some planning to do! I pray that everyone has a BLESSED summer and that wonderful memories are created!

Birthday Boy

2008-04-28T19:05:00.005-05:00

HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY AIDAN!

March for Babies 2008

2008-04-28T09:12:00.022-05:00

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24

The Lord continues to be faithful to his word and faithful to us! This day, gladness and a rejoicing spirit were truly upon my heart. Blessings unfolded in so many aspects of our day and we are very thankful!

Stephen and I have been amazed at the outpour of support that has once again been shown to the families of Team Manna. Thank You to everyone who supported us by prayer, walking and contributions!

TEAM MANNA WALKERS 2008

TEAM MANNA FAMILIES

MANNA MOMMIES: RACHEL, KENZIE, BROOKE

WE MADE IT!

FOR OUR BABIES

A BEAUTIFUL SIGN MADE FOR NOAH!

BABY MADDOX'S SIGN

BABY ANDREW'S SIGN!

HANNAH'S SIGN!

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

Acts 20:24

The Great Escape

2008-04-14T11:22:00.009-05:00

I don't know about you, but sometimes I feel the need to escape. My reasons may differ from one time to the next, but the result for me is a desire to step back and escape to a place I can pull my thoughts, emotions and actions together.

This weekend was one of those times that I heard the "place" calling my name. I always know, with out a doubt, when it is time. It is almost as if my car can sense exactly where to go because on many occasions I reach my destination without even realizing that is where I was headed.

Down the little dirt road I drive, feeling a sense of relief and peace the minute I hear gravel under my tires. Instantly, I see clearly through my tears (usually brought on by the very reason I am escaping) and the beauty of the land, trees and flowers penetrates my being. What I find even more magnificent are the sounds I hear upon closing my eyes. The wind leads the chimes in chorus and the birds chirp in perfect harmony. There are no other noises or sights to interrupt the glory God wants to reveal.

The Lord's presence exudes from every aspect. In this place, He speaks volumes to me and I feel His precious comfort warm me from the inside out. I am reminded that He is near and loves me dearly. Upon these reassurances, I am able to look down, with joy in my heart, and be reminded of the reason I am drawn to this place. Noah James Galbincea : Dec 26, 2006 - Feb. 2, 2007.

There is usally no other reason that I arrive here other than I just need to be with my God and my baby boy. I still feel the desire to take care of 3 children. I still feel the need to care for Noah in some form or fashion. This may seem very strange to some, but not to me. I know he is in the best hands and doesn't literally need to be taken care of, and I am very aware that he is in heaven and not there in the cemetery. However, the need to nurture a baby or a family of 5 doesn't simply go away. I am not yet sure if it ever will. So, I find great satisfaction in taking care of what IS there and what I CAN get my hands on this side of heaven. For me, that is pruning and watering his flowers, making sure the bench and angel that decorate his tiny gravesite are in place and that the rest of Baby Land (what they call Noah's side of the cemetery) is cared for.

Prayerfully, others will be able to see this as a place of beauty and a place of reminders of the promises to come for those that are in Christ. Prayerfully, the glory and beauty of God will continue be revealed through the sight and sounds of the land. And prayerfully, others will be able to percieve a cemetery not as a place of death, but rather a place of LIFE and a place of blessings. GLORY to our God who promises eternal life if we believe in Him.

So, for now and I am sure for days to come, I will continue to escape to be with my God and my son. What a GREAT escape it is!

Homesick

2008-04-07T12:40:00.006-05:00

Today, is definitely what I would call a "homesick" day. Not for my own, or any home that I used to have. Not for any place here on this earth that I have been before. It is a homesick for my eternal home. Homesick for my Father and my baby Noah. Homesick for everything I miss about him and for the future with him that has been promised to me.

I was looking at a picture of Noah this morning and thought about some of the things I can't wait to experience again when I go home. The feel of his sweet, soft cheeks on my lips. The smell of his hair after a bath. The sound of each breath as he lay sleeping on my chest. The sight of his precious smile that melted my heart. I miss him so much, but praise our Father that I won't miss him forever.

This song "Homesick" by Mercy Me describes my pain and praise today.

You're in a better place, I've heard a thousand times

And at least a thousand times I've rejoiced for you

But the reason why I'm broken, the reason why I cry

Is how long must I wait to be with you

I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

Help me Lord cause I don't understand your ways

The reason why I wonder if I'll ever know

But, even if you showed me, the hurt would be the same

Cause I'm still here so far away from home

I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

In Christ, there are no goodbye

And in Christ, there is no end

So I'll hold onto Jesus with all that I have

To see you again

And I close my eyes and I see your face

If home's where my heart is then I'm out of place

Lord, won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

Won't you give me strength to make it through somehow

I've never been more homesick than now

"But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness."
2 Peter 3:12-14

To Grandma's House We Go!

2008-04-03T16:24:00.004-05:00

Aidan and Emma had Easter AGAIN with Grandma today! They had a BLAST!

These Feet Were Made for Walking...Are Yours?

2008-04-03T16:19:00.002-05:00

We are now within one month of the
March for Babies
at the University of Houston
Sunday, April 27th
Starts at 9am

We are getting excited and getting ready to do something to honor the lives of our precious babies. So the question is... we are walking... ARE YOU?If you are, please go online to register on the Team Manna page and indicate that you will be walking (click on Register to March.) We have been to the site and know it can be a little confusing because it asks you to set your own monetary goal. Rest assured that the goal you indicate will be counted under the Team Manna total goal. IF you still have questions, please email Kenzie to let us know(kenzie.stanfield@yahoo.com).

Also, we need a fairly accurate count because we will be ordering Team Manna T-shirts. If you would like to buy one (certainly not required to walk, just fun), please let Kenzie know in an email that you would like one and what size. They will be under $10. We will have them at the walk when you arrive. As a sidenote, we have also been asked if the T-shirts can be purchased, even if you aren't walking. Of course! If you would just like to buy a T-shirt, please email me to let me know.Thank you EVERYONE for the continued love and support for this walk! We are so appreciative!

"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."- Acts 20:24

Prayer

2008-03-28T12:04:00.002-05:00

Please say a prayer for my sweet friend Tanya. She has our 4 children at her house today so I am able to go out of town. Pray for peace in her home, kind and gentle spirits for the children, and strength to handle any given situation until daddies get off of work! Thank you so much for your prayers and THANK YOU TANYA for allowing me to have this time! You are an AMAZING woman and friend.

Highly Reccomended Reading!

2008-03-26T13:03:00.004-05:00

My good friend Catherine and I talked about reading a book together that we could discuss during our many phone conversations (she lives in Virginia.) Given that I only have about 7 other books/studies I am currently involved in, I thought it sounded like a GREAT idea! I do have to say, I am SO GLAD we decided on this one! I truly believe this book is for every woman out there who is thriving to make Christ the center of their home. Some of it is hard to read, as the authors point out changes that most of us might not want to make of ourselves. However, the rewards are well worth it. The Word of God is applied beautifully all throughout the book and it encourages you to truly be passionate, through God, about what you do in your home and with your family. WHAT A GREAT BOOK!

When I Say...

2008-03-25T12:37:00.016-05:00

When I say..."I'm a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin." I'm whispering "I was once lost and now forgiven."

When I say..."I'm a Christian"
I don's speak of this with pride. I'm confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say..."I'm a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong. I'm professing that I'm weak and need His strength to carry on.

When I say..."I'm a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success. I'm admitting that I have failed and need God to clean my mess.

When I say..."I'm a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect. My flaws are far too visible, but God believes I'm worth it.

When I say..."I"m a Christian"

I still feel the sting of pain. I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.

When I say..."I'm a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou. I'm just a simple sinner, who received God's grace somehow!

Maya Angelou

Hear Me O Lord

2008-03-25T11:12:00.004-05:00

In her Battlefield of the Mind devotional, Joyce Meyer says, "They ways of the Holy Spirit are gentle; most if the time He speaks to us in a still small voice. It is therefore vital that we learn to keep ourselves in a condition conducive to hearing."

This devotional really spoke to me this morning. I don't know about you, but my world is FULL of noise. Mickey Mouse, Dora, children screaming, singing, laughing, Duffy barking, phone ringing, dryer buzzing, and on and on. Am I in a condition condusive to hearing a still small voice?

I can not count how many times I have asked the Lord to answer me LOUDLY and CLEARLY. "Scream it at me Lord, hit me over the head with your answer," I have requested over and over. One more instance the Lord says to me, "Let's work on YOU, Brooke."

Praise God that He is willing to refine my ways over and over and over. He WANTS me to hear Him, but in His way and in His time. A still, small voice will be heard when I decide to turn off or get away from the noises of my everyday world. When I come before Him, condusive to hearing his Spirit is when he will do great works in me. The love and beauty in the Holy Spirit's voice is what I want to be conditioned to hear.

Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a still small voice.
1 Kings 19:11-12

Noah's Story

2008-03-25T10:57:00.003-05:00

Noah James Galbincea is our third, beautiful blessing from the Lord. The news that we would be having a new baby in the house was such a big surprise as we had just brought our precious daughter Emma into the world only 5 months earlier! Stephen and I were extremely excited at the thought of three little Galbinceas in our home. We were just amazed at what the Lord was doing in our lives and felt truly blessed.

Noah arrived in our lives on December 26, 2006. He joined big brother Aidan and big sister Emma to create our family of 5. He was our adorable Christmas gift, who fit perfectly into a tiny stocking that the nurses sent home! Soon, we settled at home, and began to find the harmony of raising a 2 year old, 1 year old and newborn. We treasured watching Aidan and Emma interact with their baby brother. There is no doubt that we were all head over heels in love with Noah!

39 days after Noah graced our presence, God began a journey in us that put our faith to the greatest test. In the early morning hours, as Noah slept on his Daddy’s chest, he passed from the arms of his earthly father into the arms of his Heavenly Father. In that moment, our lives were forever changed. For the first time, Stephen and I understood firsthand how precious life is. I never knew the night before would be the last kiss, the last bath, the last everything. However, our Father did. He was there to draw near, capture ever tear and flood us with unexplainable peace and strength.

Our precious Lord and Savior receives all the praise, honor and glory for sustaining us through the pain and trials of this past year. His hands and feet have been ever present in our friends and family and we are very thankful that so many individuals responded to the Lord’s call to help. Noah is missed terribly in our home, but we know that God has promised us an eternity with him. Our hope continues to be in the day that we are able to receive Noah from the arms of Christ.

Noah’s passing has put a strong desire in our heart to help others who may be walking a similar path and to help prevent infant mortality by contributing to research and education. SIDS not only claimed the life of our son, but continues to be the cause of death for approximately 2,500 infants in the United States and thousands more throughout the world. We are excited about supporting the March of Dimes by walking in the March for Babies this April 27th. We appreciate each sponsor who is able to help us raise money for this amazing organization! Please take a moment to check out our Team Manna webpage and thank you for your support .

Spaces and Books and Blogs...OH MY!

2008-03-24T19:32:00.003-05:00

Myspace, facebook, blogger and more. What's a girl to choose? Well, here I am in the cyber world, AGAIN! Myspace was my pervious journaling home, but cancelled several months ago for various reasons. I realized after Noah passed away that expressing myself through writing was very helpful. Here we are a year later, and I still have the urge to share whats on my mind. So, I will give this another go round and spill onto the screen the musings of this mommy.