God's Grace

The past few months have been very challenging in our household. The kids have all been sick at varying times with ear aches, RSV, the flu, pneumonia, etc... you name it, we've had it. Twice the Dr. told me to prepare myself that one of the kids would have to be hospitalized. Doug has been called away WAY more than any of us would like and I've been feeling pretty overwhelmed with the challenge of raising 3 little ones - sick little ones. But by God's grace we are making it through this season of our lives and coming out better because of it. We are blessed with health care and each of my children have recovered. Doug is healthy and though he's not here as often as we would like, he is here and a very active part of the kid's lives. As for me, God has been using this time to speak to me, to humble me and to grow me. I gave up complaining for lent and I have been surprised at how hard it's been. After a particularly bad day I checked a blog that I follow and read this:

"Everything about which we are tempted to complain may be the very instrument
whereby the Potter intends to shape His clay into the image of His Son -- a
headache, an insult, a long line at the check-out, someone's rudeness or
failure, misunderstanding, disappointment, interruption. . .


See it as a chance to die, meaning a chance to leave self behind and say "YES"
to the will of God.


Not a morbid martyr complex but a peaceful and happy contentment in the
assurance that goodness and mercy follow all the days of our lives. Wouldn't
our children learn godliness if they saw the example of contentment instead of
complaint? Acceptance instead of rebellion? Peace instead of frustration?"

Elizabeth Elliott - "Keep A Quiet Heart" page 91.


"...Be content with what you have: for He has said, I will never leave you, nor
forsake you." – Hebrews 13:5

WOW! What a great reminder for me to keep my head in the game and stay focused on what is important - HIM! God is good!

These pictures are all out of order but I'm just happy to get them uploaded and didn't think you would mind.

Our first homeschooling field trip - Doug is
educating the girls on turkeys and hens


Davis was baptized this past Sunday.
My cousin Brooke and her husband Miles
are his God Parents



My sweet and sassy Leah


I love this face!!!



Kinsley in her German attire. She's
been taking a German folk dance
class and was in a parade and got
to perform at a festival over the weekend.


Sisters - On this particular day I was tempted
to close the dryer door and turn it on.
Thankfully I was able to exercise some
self control and just grabbed my camera instead.


Awww...peace and quite


Celebrating Dr. Seuss' bday


Leah is discovering how much fun Easter egg hunting is


Did I mention that I love this face!?!



And this one!


Who said you can't accessorize with boys?