Saturday, August 25, 2012

Thanksgiving in August!

I was thinking today just how much I have to be thankful for and how sometimes, in all honesty I can be a complete grump.  I read a definition of thankfulness which said, "Thankfulness is an attitude of heart from which you are aware of your blessings. Thankfulness flows from the knowledge of how loved, valued and precious you are to God."  Last Sunday my pastor preached from John 19 and challenged us to think about the "Double Cure" Christ has given us:  we are saved from wrath and made pure.  That knowledge should move us to thankfulness - it should move us to be so compelled by love that we live lives that are thankful and ready to act on behalf of the gospel.  

Honestly, I don't want to be a grump.  I want to live each day choosing to be thankful, even when it isn't Thanksgiving day!  Every day should be Thanksgiving.  I am thankful for God's grace - apart from Him, I would always be a grump, and I need him daily to choose thankfulness.  I needed this reminder!  So in honor of Thanksgiving in August I thought I would share some things today that I am thankful for today:



  • Rain and thunderstorms
  • A hail storm in May that provided me with new siding for my house
  • Hearing my kids laugh and play together
  • A husband who loves me and makes me feel treasured
  • Finger prints on the table I just washed
  • A refrigerator covered with reminders from our friends in CA that they love us
  • My family and God planting me so close to so many of them
  • My new church family and how God is using them in my life already
  • Music and hearing my kids sing with joy
  • The Double Cure from Christ - he has saved me from wrath and is day by day making me pure.
Here are a few pics of just a few things from the list that will serve as reminders to me of how blessed I am!

A handprint that I am thankful for - thankful for who those fingers belong to!

Reminders of how much we are loved!  

This warms my heart - seeing them together and hearing them talking and laughing together!  



Wednesday, July 25, 2012

60 Things I Love About My Dad

Fun times with Grandpa!
Today we have the privilege of celebrating my dad's 60th birthday with him!  There are so many things to love about my dad and so I wanted to take a moment to share 60 things that I love about him.  Believe me, there are definitely more than 60, but 60 is the magic number today.
  1. He loves Christ above all things.
  2. His smile and laugh.
  3. He loves to be with his family.
  4. He listens to the Statler Brothers at Christmas and drives us around to look at Christmas lights.
  5. He takes me out each year for our annual Christmas dinner date and shopping for my mom's Christmas present.  This has to be one of the highlights of my year!
  6. He is humble.
  7. He is a hard worker and gives his all to whatever he is doing.
  8. He is a fabulous Grandpa who gives great horsey rides, rides on the mower, gives great hugs and thinks that donuts and ice cream are a must!
  9. He has come to my rescue more than once - the snow storm and scar on his hand is a reminder of that.  I know I could call him any time for anything.
  10. He listens well.
  11. He cares for his family well.
  12. He can laugh with us.
  13. He is a learner - always reading, studying God's word, participating in classes, Bible studies, etc.
  14. He likes Twizzlers.
  15. He loves my mom so much - love that his ring tone for her is "My Girl."  I love how he shows Christ-like love to her.
  16. He is smart and knows how to fix things - always willing to help with a project I might have.
  17. He is wise and gives thoughtful advice.
  18. He makes awesome deep fried chicken - speaking of which I need to have him make sometime since he hasn't done that in forever!
  19. When I call him crying, which has happened a time or two (or more), he listens and then is such an encourager always pointing me to Christ.
  20. He has shown love for his family in the way he cares for his mother - he always goes up and visits, does projects for her, fixes things, etc.
  21. He can make my daughter and son's faces light up!
  22. He drove my things all the way to CA when Jeremy and I got married - that was a long haul!
  23. He doesn't use a debit card - yes I do love this about him.
  24. He is great at Nerts!  He is competitive, so now I know where I get it!
  25. He gave me a love for Nascar.
  26. He has taught me what it means to sacrifice and give all you have for your family.
  27. He enjoys reading.
  28. He has shown me how to love as Christ by putting the needs of others above my own.
  29. He gets up early each morning to spend time in the Word and prayer.
  30. He loves a good BBQ pork steak!
  31. He looks for the good in others.
  32. He let me tutor him in Algebra - thankful for that time we had together!  See - he is a learner!
  33. He can still stand on his head!  Does it each year on his birthday!
  34. He is genuine - I know when dad says something it is something he means and believes.  
  35. He has a servants heart!
  36. He is honest and trustworthy.
  37. He likes things neat and clean - - he does a great job on windows :)
  38. He taught me how to fish and camp (don't tell him that I love this but I do!) ;)
  39. He took me to Bennett Springs growing up.
  40. He made trips to California to be there after both of my children were born.  I know that being away from work isn't easy for him.
  41. Seeing him at the airport many times picking us up when we would visit.  I have to mention here that I am thankful we now can drive up in our car to his house!  :)  But the funny part - I do miss seeing that smile and getting that hug as I came through security.
  42. Sitting, talking and laughing with him about most anything.
  43. Watching him enjoy time with his grandkids!
  44. Hearing him preach and share the Word of God - what a blessing and answer to prayer.
  45. While he doesn't love talking on the phone, he talks to me almost every day or every other day on the phone :)
  46. He has welcomed Jeremy into our family from the moment we were dating!
  47. He would take me to Godfather's Pizza each year on his birthday.
  48. He is a strong and healthy man who takes good care of himself.
  49. He is disciplined - - I greatly admire this in him!
  50. He prays for us - I know when I ask Dad to pray - he does!  And he does even when I have not asked.  
  51. He is just fun to be with - makes me smile and I simply enjoy time with him.
  52. In spite of not liking circular motion, he is willing to go on the carousel at the mall with his grandkids!  
  53. He doesn't need "things" to make him happy.
  54. He is a creature of habit - - and I love this about him!  (Just glad I have the blue robe now - oh and the blue sweatpants!)
  55. He likes to have a plan.
  56. His confidence is in Christ.
  57. He loves his children.  He has shown me what it means to love your children unconditionally, even through some hard spots.
  58. He loves the church and is actively serving Christ in the local body.  
  59. He chose to take his family to Chuck E. Cheese on his 60th birthday!
  60. Knowing he is always there for me - showing me Christ in his daily life.

This list could go on and on.  I love my dad so much and rejoice and thank God for giving him to me as my Dad!  It is a joy and blessing to be his daughter.  

Happy Birthday Dad!  You bring great joy to our lives!  Thanks for loving us and showing us Christ.
Thankful for that smile!
Always willing to help!


Wednesday, July 18, 2012

My Little "E" is Two!

Two years ago today, I was preparing to go in to be induced.  My little Ethan was snug as a bug and a week late.  I remember waking up about this time (3:15 a.m.) a little nervous about what the day would hold.  I was nervous about so many things.  I was unsure of the whole "induction" and how that would go but I was also nervous at the thought of how life was going to change.  I was also nervous thinking about the enormous responsibility that comes in training and teaching a child.  It was also quite an emotional time because my grandfather had just passed away.  I had wanted so much to be back in MO with my family during the time of his going home to be with the Lord but because I was due any day, flying wasn't an option.  I had so hoped that Papa (my grandfather) could meet the little man that was on the way.  But God's plans were different and He used it to teach me and grow me so very much.

I remember the day of Ethan's birth thinking much about my grandfather and the lessons he had taught us growing up.  I had lots of time to think - it took quite a while for the medicine to kick in.  I remember the love that Papa showed each of us throughout our lives.  I remember how he sacrificed for his family.  I remember how he loved being with each of us and the fun adventures we had together.  I remember the smile he had when he would laugh and his large hands holding mine.  I remember he would do anything for us - even eating corn flake and mayonaise cookies I made especially for him (I was young ok - lol).  I was flooded with all of these thoughts and realized that I wanted to be like that with my children - Papa had such an impact on my life and I was being given once again the opportunity to impact the lives of my children.  I remember thinking - never did I have to question that Papa loved me - it was so clearly shown to me in how he lived.  I want my children to never have to question that I love them.  I want it to be clearly demonstrated to them.

The song that I couldn't get out of my head that day was In Christ Alone (the version done by Page CXVI).  The lyrics that kept ringing in my head was, "No guilt in life, no fear in death from life's first cry to final breath."  We had been through my grandfather's final breath and were about to experience life's first cry.  And I just kept thinking about how in Christ - can truly have no fear in life or death.  I am thankful that my grandfather knew that and pray daily that it becomes a truth for my little man, Ethan David!

Ethan arrived safe and sound that night at 9:25 p.m.  And he truly captured my heart immediately.  I mentioned earlier about being nervous about how life would change.  Life did change in big ways, ways that grew our hearts and made us more of the family God desired for us to be.  I can't imagine life without the smiles of my little "E!"  It was one of the best changes ever!!!!!!!!

Ethan David you are a blessing to each of us!  Your energy, personality and heart make each day brighter!  Nothing makes me smile more than to walk in your room in the morning and hear, "Hi baby, I wuffffff you!"  You are teaching me a lot and God is using you in my life.  Your mommy loves you so very much and I know that Papa Love would have been tickled by you.  Sometimes I see him in your BIG smiles and those little ornery glints you get in your eye.  (Pretty sure that is why God made you so very cute!)

I love watching you with your Daddy and sister!  They love you so much!

Ethan my prayer is that you come to love the Lord with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength.  I pray that you come to know Christ and that in Him alone your hope is found.  That song that God gave me that day so clearly has become my prayer for you - that Christ would be your light, strength, and song.  I know there will be (and have been) times, as much as we love you, that we will fail you - but always know that Christ will not.  He is "firm through the fiercest drought ands storm."  He loves you more than anything.

I rejoice and am incredibly humbled that God entrusted you to us.  You light up my days!  I love being with you and being your mommy!

Happy 2nd Birthday Ethan David!  You are a blessing from the Lord!  And you are just stinkin' cute!!!!!!  Those big smiles are contagious!  










Monday, July 09, 2012

Top Ten Things about being at Grandma's House!

From the previous post, which will be continued at some point soon, you can tell that things have been a little oh let's say "all over the place" for the Writebol's since about mid-March.  It felt like things were a little crazy when Jeremy moved to Wichita before the kids and I did (a month and half), accreditation for the school was in the final count down stages and I was packing a house and caring for the kiddos!  Oh and silly me - forgot we were also having to keep the house ready to show at all times for the landlord who was selling the house.  No biggie though - lets all just imagine that it was smooth sailing!

Needless to say, I was in need of a break and didn't realize how much I needed it until today.  Today I woke up and realized, "I don't have to do anything today."  My parents came to visit over the 4th of July (another post in and of itself) and so the kids and I decided we were taking a little vacation to Grandma's house.  I am not sure who was more excited - me or them!  We came home with them yesterday and are here for as Allie puts it, "A whole long week!"  Excitement abounds!  So I was thinking about the joys and blessings of being at Grandma's house (and there are definitely more than 10) but for a short post today here goes (in no particular order):


  1. Having lunches with my grandma, you know the ones she just "throws together" but are better than my dinners that I make :)  She is the best - today we had Swiss steak, mashed potatoes, broccoli with cheese sauce, corn, macaroni and cheese (because the kids love it) and strawberry shortcake - you know - she just threw it together - nothing much - :)  
  2. Taking walks with my family down the gravel roads for the kids to explore - looking for blackberries, deer, flowers, watching the sunset, seeing the neighbors on the road! 
  3. Getting to just sit and talk with my parents in person.
  4. Watching my kids love on Grandma and Grandpa and watching Grandma and Grandpa love on them.
  5. Ethan getting Grandma to rock him at night.
  6. Not having to worry about what I should be doing "around the house."
  7. Fun shopping trips with my mom and grandma.
  8. Getting to spend time with the kids that isn't interrupted by the "have to's" :)
  9. That feeling you have - the one that says in your heart, "welcome home, relax and know you are loved."
  10. Knowing that we are now close enough to do this when we want to - - now that is a BIG one!  
Fun times at Grandma's house and this list could go on and on - - - Ethan said it best this morning while running around the living room, "I like Grandma's house, I like Grandma's house, I like Grandma's house!"  



Friday, June 22, 2012

Oh Hail! Just another one of God's provisions!

Got your attention with that title?  I have been struggling with what to post about - there has been so much going on in the lives of the Writebol family over the course of the last month and a half!

May 8th marked my last day of work at Rincon Valley Christian School - still a surreal thought in my mind.  It was an odd feeling leaving work that day knowing that my new job was going to be what I had prayed and prayed for - to be a stay at home mom!  (That will be another post in and of itself - my transition to the new job!)  We spent the next several days boxing a house, spending as much time as possible with what I call our "family friends" in Santa Rosa and getting our last "fixes" on our favorite spots in Sonoma County to eat :)  It is funny because in some ways it seems so long ago and in some ways it feels like yesterday!

On May 12 we did something that was much more difficult that I could have imagined it would be - we said, "See you later" to those family friends in Santa Rosa and headed to our new home in Wichita, KS.    This was something God had been doing in our hearts for several years and again, a whole other story in and of itself.  While we were thankful that God was moving us closer to family (and he did - put us right in the middle of everyone!), saying goodbye to people who mean the world to you and have become family was a difficult task.  Let's just say I created my own trail of tears from Santa Rosa to Wichita.  I think the desert even got wet as we traveled.


So they loaded up the truck and they moved to Beverly - oh I mean Wichita!  


Our family in California!  We love them all!  

More California Family!  Miss you!

Such good friends - thankful that friendships can last no matter where you are!  

More California Family!  Can't wait to see them again soon!



Our kids did amazing on the three day drive.  They had their moments - as any child would - it was just a bummer to be trapped in the car with them and no escape when the did - LOL!  Each day was about 11 hours in the car.  We saw many fun sights, created fun memories and spent Mother's Day at the Grand Canyon (which is amazing!).  On the way to Kansas we spent two nights in Santa Fe with my Aunt Linda and her husband Andy.  Super fun times there - my brother was there too so we got to visit with him as well!  Finally on Tuesday, May 15 we made it to Kansas!  Let's just say we saw lots of grain elevators and the bigger the grain elevator, the more of a hope that the town coming up had a restroom :)

We closed on our house on May 16 and our belongings arrived safe and sound on May 21st.  My parents had come the Saturday before and helped us get the house painted inside (pictures to come soon).  Now that our belongings were here, we were officially moved in to our new home in Wichita.  I was completely overwhelmed with boxes and felt slightly paralyzed.  Little did I know that a week and two days later, I would enter into an edition of Extreme Home Make-over, only the whole town wasn't showing up and neither was Ty Pennington.

Our New Home in Wichita - but soon it won't look like this!  Extreme  Home Make-Over in process!



On Wednesday, May 30 we were home, getting ready to go to community group and around 4:30 p.m. we experienced a hail storm like no hail storm I have ever experienced and I grew up in the midwest!  It hailed for a very long time - it just kept going and going!  The kids thought it was pretty cool and loved standing on the porch watching the large balls of ice hitting everything!  Honestly at this point it is important to note that I was worried, I knew it was doing major damage to our van and probably our roof.  But what can you do at that point - just trust that the Lord who holds all things together (including hail) would take care of us.  Ethan was walking around the house saying, "Oh hail, oh hail."  Little did we know that God was going to use the hail storm as an act of grace in our lives.  This story will be continued - - - - - - - - but to let you know, we are getting a new roof, gutters, and siding - - - I really am on Extreme Home Make-over and can't wait to post before and after pictures.  God is showing me EVERYDAY he does hold all things together and his plans are for our good and His glory.  He can use even what we think is horrible to demonstrate his love and grace.  We just need to have eyes fixed on him.  That is what he is teaching me these days.  More to come soon :)

Saturday, June 02, 2012

Measures of Grace

As I sit here in my new home, my mind is full of so many things I could write about.  My life has been a whirlwind since February when my husband accepted a new job in Kansas.  It will take some time for me to sort things out in my mind but one thing that has been so pronounced in my life lately is how God is continually showing me what I am calling, "measures of God's grace" in my life.  We, as sinners, are so incredibly undeserving of anything in this life but God continually pours out measures of His grace to his people.  I have told some of my friends I am going to write a book and call it "Measures of Grace."  Could be a pipe dream but who knows, stranger things have happened.  I stand continually amazed at God's grace so freely bestowed to me.

I have been thinking much on a song, "Through the Precious Blood" by Sovereign Grace.  The lyrics are:

You have ordained every breath we take
In pleasure or pain, there is no mistake
Gladness and grief, both are in Your hand
And sufferings brief carry out Your plan
And our fleeting sorrows
Will yield an endless prize
When some bright tomorrow
We’ll see You with our eyes, and

Grace upon grace flows down, flows down
Grace upon grace flows down, flows down
Through the precious blood of Christ

Father of lights, Giver of all grace
Your mercies crown our lives all our days
River of Life, quench our thirsty souls
For no true delight does Your love withhold
And in every season
We are satisfied
For just one reason
Christ was crucified, and

All good gifts, every good thing
Comes to us freely, so freely
All good gifts, every good thing
Comes to us freely, so freely
Through the precious blood
Through the precious blood



Really any grace we receive only comes through what Christ did for us on Calvary.  He is the giver of all grace.  How amazing it is that we see measures of it every day!  


So I think my next post will be some of the measures of God's grace I have seen over the last month.  I am thankful God has helped me to see the whirlwind as really just His grace poured out.  

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Things that make me smile!

So it has been a LONG time since I have posted - probably should have posted an update a long time ago on the previous post about the car seat. The short version - through Graco (and God's grace) we were able to buy a replacement part for $10. Amazing!

But on this sunny day, while the house is quiet, I thought I would make a short list of things that make me smile today (in no particular order):
  • Creamed Corn from Sweet T's
  • Hearing Ethan sing "The Father's Love"
  • Thinking about how I will decorate my new house
  • Squirt Soda - - current addiction of mine
  • Talking to Jeremy on the phone
  • Seeing Ethan run up and give Gracie a big hug and a big smile on his own initiative
  • Getting to church a few minutes early - even with getting the kids ready and everything
  • Watching Ethan's face as he watches Kung Fu Panada
  • Thinking about the Great Shepherd and his love for me
  • Knowing that in 16 days I will see Jeremy
  • Knowing that in 10 days I will see my mom
  • Looking at all the boxes that I have gotten packed with the help of some special friends - couldn't do this without them!
  • Relaxing on my couch
  • Allie being such a helper with me with Ethan
  • As weird as this will sound - crunched up mini wheats on the floor - - because I am realizing these moments will pass all too fast
  • Singing The Glories of Calvary at church this morning
  • Being so welcomed into a fellowship group this morning at SRBC
  • Seeing Mrs. Dolan holding Ethan in the nursery
This list could go on and on - - - so much to smile about! Who knows when the next post will be - I know the next two and a half weeks will be crazy - but updates will come for sure!

Tuesday, February 07, 2012

A Broken Car Seat and a Gospel Lesson

Well, I have not posted in quite a while - largely due in part to time, but more than anything, I often don't feel like I have much to blog about. Tonight, I have a quiet house, a few moments to blog and more than anything - a testimony to God's greatness in using all things for His glory and our good. So I feel compelled to share - it was a precious lesson to all of us and I am praying God uses it greatly in the life of our family.

Last night was quite an adventure - another story all in itself - the short version - Ethan got sick several times, resulting in the car seat needing to be cleaned. I worked on that today and had it sitting there - waiting for all the drying parts to be returned. The car seat has this lovely piece of foam that is the head support. To a little four year old girl, this must have looked like a craft project waiting to happen. More than once I had said, Allison, don't touch the foam. While getting dinner ready I see Allison holding a piece of the foam and hear Jeremy asking her where it came from. Eventually she pointed to the broken foam in the living room. Yes, you guessed it, she decided to disobey and tear the foam so, as she put it, she could "make something." To say I was upset would be quite the understatement. I was not happy at all. Jeremy took her to her room, talked to her and we left her to stay on her bed while we discussed matters in the other room - trying to decide what to say, what the consequences were and cool down - all were needed. We talked about how she could pay for it (she had money from Christmas) but that seemed like something of little impact since she doesn't have a real concept of the amount of money. After a period of time Jeremy said he needed to go back and deal with her - I asked, "What are you going to say?" Jeremy's reply, "I don't know exactly, but talk to her about the gospel and forgiveness." When Jeremy came back and shared with me about the conversation, I realized that God used the broken car seat to teach us all a big lesson. Jeremy said that when he was talking to Allie, he told her she would have to pay for the repairs or replacement, no matter how much that was (and we had told her it could be lots of money). She looked up at him, feeling badly and said, "Daddy, I can't pay, I only have $2 from Uncle Adam and $1 from my bank, I don't have enough and I can't pay." Which made her sad. It was at that moment that Jeremy (being a wonderful father - tender to teaching our children about God's love and grace) realized that this is EXACTLY what God has done for us - we come to Him completely unable to pay and he says to us, "I will pay." So Jeremy looked at Allison and explained that because he loved her, he would pay what she couldn't. It was a wonderful opportunity to talk to her about how God did this for us, he paid for our sins which we could never pay for. Jeremy headed to a meeting and Allie brought it up again to me, telling me how special it was that Daddy was going to pay for something that she couldn't but should. When she prayed tonight she thanked God for paying for what we couldn't.

I am beyond thankful above all that God did pay for what I couldn't! I am thankful for real lessons in life where he clearly reminds us of his love and grace. It may have been seemed like a broken car seat - but really it was a great reminder to all of us how God paid for what we couldn't. Allie knows tonight that her daddy loves her - that he is going to take care of what she can't. I pray that takes hold in her heart and that there comes a point where she sees exactly what God has done for her. So thankful for those moments when we so clearly see God at work - His glory - our good! My heart is smiling -

Sunday, September 04, 2011

Nothing Like Time with My Kids!


So Jeremy is backpacking and so the kids and I have enjoyed some good time together. Yesterday we headed to IKEA with a friend and enjoyed checking out some fun things there! Then the big decision - where should we have lunch? So many good choices! Once we thought about the Pazookie at BJs, the decision was made! Lunch was amazing - fried artichokes for an appetizer, open face roast beef sandwich for the main course (for me) and then yes, a White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Pazookie for dessert! It was amazing! Of course that meant now we had to go to the Outlet Mall to catch Labor Day sales - I mean - walk off the Pazookie! We caught some good deals. There were a few points when I was wondering why I decided to do this big trip with the kids - like when Allie was crawling through clothes or the window displays or when Ethan was screaming because his sister took his balloon, but I honestly have to say they were GREAT! They did so good being dragged everywhere and I am thankful that I have a girl who loves to shop and try things on - love that I will have a shopping buddy! We then headed home - a full 9 hours of shopping and fun!

Today we hung out at home and enjoyed being together - complete with a walk to Crepevine for lunch (Allie's choice) and the walk was a workout! A double stroller in heat made for some good exercise! Then my favorite part - naps for everyone - ME included! And now - Ethan is sleeping and Allie and I are relaxing watching a special Dora episode "Dora Saves the Crystal Kingdom." I love time with her! She is growing up way too fast in my mind but thankful she wants to spend time with me. I love it when she says, "Mom, this is the best day ever!" I love "Mommy and Me" time! So tomorrow - I think feeding the ducks and the park - at Allie's request and we both agree Moxie's would be a special Labor Day treat!

My Girl Kicked back in her favorite chair - the laundry basket - enjoying the evening!




This pic - purely for fun because it makes me smile!



Saturday, September 03, 2011

Catching Up

The Writebol's had a fun summer! One of our favorite summer activities is the Sonoma County Fair! We were able to go several times thanks to our fair entries! Enjoy a few pics of our first visit to the fair!





Allie's First Entry to the Sonoma County Fair - Isn't she a great little artist?????? She got us a free ticket!


Fun on the tractor's with her friend Gracie!


You can't be at the fair and not have your free Clover Ice Cream Cone!!!!!


And yes, we came home from the fair with a new member to our family, Allie's pet bunny - Sparkle!

Thursday, September 01, 2011

30 Days - Only 29 More to Go!

So day one of the Shred is done! I am back at it and this time with complete accountability! I have two friends who are in this 30 days with me! We are doing 30 days of the Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred DVD. So in April I started this video and completed 30 days of workouts - every day - didn't miss a day!!!!!! There were days I felt like I was going to die (and tomorrow will be one of them when I go to put my feet on the floor and try to walk) but it was good - I slept better, felt better over all and clothes were fitting differently - - loved it - hard work but loved it. My sweet husband promised me a trip to the SPA if I did all 30 days! The SPA was amazing - I had my ultimate massage and was feeling so good about my reward that I decided it had to be done again - back to the shred!

I was thinking about it and wondering - if I felt so good while doing it - why did I quit for May, June and July - - - then I remembered - oh right - the flu for most of May at my house and then travel galore! But seriously - it is time for no excuses - time to be serious and stay committed. I am excited about getting back in to the daily routine (I am such a routine person) and LOVE that I am not doing this alone! Thankful for the two people in this with me! Trust me - only real friends would commit to this video for 30 days! So day one is done and I can honestly say - it felt good! (Ask me tomorrow what I think - lol!)

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Come On Let's Go to Nowhere Land!


Can't believe it - but it is true - my little Allie will be four years old in a month and 3 days! So let the birthday plans begin! Yes, she has chosen a theme for her birthday that isn't easy - why? Well, it is an older cartoon and so finding anything to go with it has created a big challenge for a mom who loves birthday parties and loves to keep everything in theme. So the theme - well folks - we are headed to Nowhere Land with Maggie and the Ferocious Beast. I think that Allie's love for pretend play is the biggest reason she has fallen in love with watching Maggie!



I have to say that as much of a challenge as it is, Allie and I are having a lot of fun getting things ready for the party. So here is where we are so far:

  • Found treat bags on eBay that are actually Maggie and the Ferocious Beast - this was an amazing accomplishment - so when it said, "Buy it Now" we bought it immediately!
  • Safari hats - just like Maggie's hat for everyone to wear - finally found - google is an amazing thing!
  • Magnifying glasses for everyone as we go exploring!
  • Food - not completely planned yet, but we do know it will be a picnic - because Maggie always goes on a picnic complete with white and red checked table cloths! And the drink table - a lemonade stand - just like Maggie!
  • Games - well "Pin the Spot on Beast" of course, "Return Hamilton to His Box" (getting the stuffed pig Hamilton into a cardboard box by throwing him - Hamilton lives in a box on the show), and the "Side-step Race" - the red crab does this with everyone on the show and his name is Side-Step.
  • A few crafts - making Maggie and Beast dolls and coloring the map of Nowhere Land (SO excited to find this!)
  • Cake - still working on that one - have a few cake people I am talking to :)
  • Outdoor viewing of a few Maggie and the Ferocious Beast episodes - this is Allie's BIG request - when we do movies with the college students in our yard on the "Big Screen," Allie is sad when she can't stay out - so she has requested that we watch Maggie on the "Big Screen" outside for her birthday.
So there ya have it - our current plans for a fun trip to Nowhere Land!!!!!!! The best part of the party though - my mom (Allie's grandma) will be here! Allie gets Grandma and I get help :) Yea for Grandma's!


Saturday, August 06, 2011

Completely Done!

It is amazing how God gives us exactly what we need when we need it. So many times in my life God has used music and lyrics to remind me of great truths and promises that come from Him alone. I wish I was able to write about all God is doing in my life - but first - there isn't time - it is too much to write and it just isn't the time to write about it all. But over the last few months, circumstances have caused me to have doubts and fears have been great. God has used this song over the last week to really drive home to me that the VICTORY is won. I am an heir with Christ. What God completes is completely done. Really thinking on what it means to be an heir with Christ is overwhelming. Last week in the sermon I heard the pastor was pointing out that we don't get to choose to be an heir - - - we are chosen as heirs. We can't walk up to someone and say, "hey - I want to be your heir - make sure I get this and that." An heir is chosen. How crazy is that - God, in all my mess, chose me to be an heir with Christ - - - inconceivable - but TRUE! I have a long way to go - but working on leaving those fears behind. The song is so true - I don't know what lies ahead and I am sure I will fail - but God will keep me to the end. I was also remind of two HUGE truths this week (thanks to my brother for the reminder!): God loves me and God is for me. If that isn't something to cling to, I don't know what is - - -


Completely Done - Sovereign Grace

What reason have I to doubt
Why would I dwell in fear
When all I have known is grace
My future in Christ is clear

My sins have been paid in full
There's no condemnation here
I live in the good of this
My Father has brought me near
I'm leaving my fears behind me now

Chorus
The old is gone, the new has come
What You complete is completely done
We're heirs with Christ, the victory won
What You complete is completely done

I don't know what lies ahead
What if I fail again
You are my confidence
You'll keep me to the end
I'm leaving my fears behind me now

Saturday, July 30, 2011

It's Fair Time!

It is fair time! I have had fun entering things in the fair and the BEST part - free tickets!!!! So far I have entered a decoupage foam diamond (decoupaged with old fair photos), decorated cookies and a photo of Allie. I am happy to report that my diamond got a first place ribbon and my photo got a 3rd place ribbon. Exciting times when I didn't anticipate winning anything!

Today I entered my "Mix Trix" cake. I made a Chocolate Marbled Pistachio Cake. I was to use a cake mix and make a creative cake. I was pleased with how it turned out - my biggest fear was that it was a bundt cake and as I was taking it out of the pan I was praying the whole time that it would not stick. It came out perfectly and my family seemed to think it was yummy! It was fun to make and fun to just enter something - no matter the outcome. Here is the recipe to share and some pictures - now off to get ready so we can go to the fair today. Excited to enjoy some fair food for lunch, let the kids see the animals and check out the exhibits!

Chocolate Marbled Pistachio Cake

1 pkg. white cake mix

1 pkg. Jello Pistachio flavor Instant pudding/pie filling (4 serving size)

4 eggs, slightly beaten

½ cup vegetable oil

¼ cup orange juice

¾ cup chocolate flavored syrup

powdered sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 10 inch tube pan; set aside

2. Combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil, ½ cup water and juice in large bowl. Beat at medium speed for 5 minutes. Pour 2/3 of the batter into prepared pan. Stir chocolate syrup into remaining batter. Pour chocolate batter slowly over pistachio batter. Do not stir or marble the batters—this will happen during baking.

3. Bake 50 – 55 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in cake comes out clean. Cool in pan for 15 minutes. Remove from pan, cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar.


Enjoy!






Sunday, July 24, 2011

A Week of Blessings!





We were so very blessed this past week to spend time with Jeremy's parents. They are missionaries in Zambia. Being in ministry presents certain challenges - one of the biggest is getting to be with family. With our family spread from Africa to Missouri to Colorado to California we have become great at traveling via plane and are thankful for things like Skype!

One of my prayers before Allison was ever born was asking God to help my children to know their family - even with many many miles between us. I can remember when I was pregnant with her praying and asking God, "Lord please don't ever let it seem when we visit that we start over with her learning who people are. Help her to be close to them even though we are far apart." God has been so gracious and we are so blessed. He has answered that prayer for me. I can say that Allie is so close to our family. She had not seen Jeremy's parents in over a year. When we got to the airport and I got to watch her run to Grammy and Papa wrapping her little arms around their necks, I was reminded how God is faithful and hears our prayers - how he desires to bless us and cares about all the details of our life!

We were so blessed this past week with so many blessings - - - I wanted to share them and recount them. This week I was continually reminded of how much God loves us and how he showers us with blessings. While we can't be together as much as we would like, he replaces those times we aren't together with amazing quality time together when he does allow us to be in one place. Precious memories were created. So here is my list of my week of blessing (and realize there is more than I can list - this is just a snapshot):

Friday
  • Seeing Allie run up and wrap her arms around the neck of her Papa at the airport and hug her Grammy!
  • Watching Grammy get to hold Ethan for the very first time and watching Ethan scrunch his nose and give his Papa a BIG smile for the first time in person!
  • Getting to eat a Pazookie with Jeremy, Allie, Ethan, Grammy and Papa at BJ's
  • Telling Jeremy's mom we were headed to the coast that very night
  • Getting in bed that night and getting to say the words to Jeremy's parents, "See you in the morning!"
Saturday
  • A crazy but traditional Writebol "hike" - getting to see the light house at Point Reyes
  • Playing games with Jeremy's parents
  • Deciding what goodies to buy at the "general store" in Tomales
  • Getting in bed that night and getting to say the words to Jeremy's parents, "See you in the morning!"
Sunday
  • Getting to sleep later than 7:00 a.m.
  • A fun trip to Petaluma - enjoying awesome Mexican food at what will probably become a new favorite restaurant of mine - Mi Pueblo
  • Game time with the family
  • Grilled Pork Steak for dinner
  • Getting in bed that night and getting to say the words to Jeremy's parents, "See you in the morning!"
Monday
  • Getting to celebrate the first birthday of my cute little guy, Ethan - with Grammy and Papa here!!!!!!!!
  • Watching Allie make monkey bread with Grammy
  • The sunshine at the coast - incredible!
  • Having friends and family at Ethan's birthday party
  • Watching Ethan eat his first very own cupcake!
  • Getting in bed that night and getting to say the words to Jeremy's parents, "See you in the morning!"
Tuesday

  • Getting up and having Jeremy's mom here to help me with the kiddos
  • Coming home and getting to go out to dinner with Jeremy's parents
  • Frozen Yogurt time at Moxies
  • Taking fun pictures of Allie with her Grammy and Papa
  • Getting in bed that night and getting to say the words to Jeremy's parents, "See you in the morning!"
Wednesday

  • Coming home from work to surprise Jeremy's mom with a trip to Coldwater Creek Spa for our pedicures!
  • Getting to just sit and visit with Jeremy's mom
  • Walking through Ross looking at fun things iwth Jeremy's mom
  • Getting in bed that night and getting to say the words to Jeremy's parents, "See you in the morning!"
Thursday
  • Going to San Francisco on a double date with Jeremy's parents: Sam Wo for dinner, walking around Chinatown finding amazing cheap things to buy, ice cream at Ghirardelli
  • Having a sweet friend watch the kids for us so we could go to San Fran
  • Getting in bed that night and getting to say the words to Jeremy's parents, "See you in the morning!"
Friday
  • Working half-day
  • Celebrating Jeremy's mom's birthday with dinner at home, games and fun gifts!!!!!
  • Hearing Allie ask for Grammy to put her to bed and "lay with her for one minute." (This happened most every night!!!)
  • Getting in bed that night and getting to say the words to Jeremy's parents, "See you in the morning!"
It was an amazing week - one we are truly thankful for!!!!!!! I loved - LOVED watching the kids every day play with their Grammy and Papa and fall more and more in love with them! Saturday was a hard day - sad that they had to leave. But - - - - - - - one thing I know - we can't wait until we are together again!!!!!! I am thankful for my husband's parents -- God blessed me beyond what I could ask or imagine! We are simply blessed!

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Jesus, Lover of My Soul

It is hard for me to believe that we are already half-way in to 2011. Over the last several days my mind has been churning - not sure why - just lots of thinking going on (possibly since things have slowed down enough for me to have time to think - lol). I have thought a lot about the last year of my life and all the lessons that have been learned and many still being taught to me. A year ago today I was preparing to have a baby, knowing that I would be induced on July 18 if my sweet peanut didn't decide to come before then (which was terrifying to me - and I was induced), my family had just experienced the loss of my grandfather two weeks prior and my not being able to be there was very difficult for me. My husband was preparing to participate in a Master's program in Seattle which God had miraculously provided for - but remember - new baby, almost 3 year-old and starting back to work in September. There were so many other things going on within our immediate and extended family in the months to come - more than I have time to write about. Big things were happening and still are. I look back at all of that and am amazed. I joke but there is a lot of truth in saying that I feel like the last year has been an exciting, scary, nerve-wracking roller coaster ride with many ups and downs.

The best part of this last year is to look back and see the work God is doing in my heart and my faith. He is stretching me and growing me by only his mercy and grace. It is Him and Him alone who gets all glory for the fact that I didn't go into a full-on panic attack each month when Jeremy went to Seattle for class. God is faithful - His promises are sure.

Since June, Jeremy has been on a leave of absence from where he works to finish his Master's final project (PRAISE the LORD he is done with school!). It has been a wonderful time to reconnect as a couple and as a family. It has been good for us to "take a breath" and really get time to be fed spiritually. It was much needed even though he had lots of work to do for his project. Because he has been on "leave" we have had a chance to visit other churches and that has been amazing. Last week we went to visit a church where we have some friends and it was wonderful to worship with them. I was overwhelmed with the joy and warmth we were greeted with. The singing - AMAZING! One of the songs we sang was "Jesus, Lover of my Soul." I have to say that this is a song I have sung many times - and this sounds odd to say (and slightly embarrassing) but this was the fist time I really remember singing the song and really thinking on the words of the song. I think this may be my favorite hymn right now. As I read over the words, thinking how Jesus is the real lover of my soul, it really does sum up so many of the prayers I have had over the last year of my life - and will continue to be. I think this will be part of my daily reading each day - to think on the words of this song and really make them a prayer for my life. I am so thankful that He is full of grace and truth, the source of all righteousness, that His grace has covered all my sin - that He is the Lover of my Soul. While some of the things that have happened over the last year I would not have chosen on my own, I am thankful God uses all things for our good and His glory. Oh and with Christ - I think that I am starting to be able to loosen the grip I have and put my hands up on that roller coaster ride - knowing I am safe with Him.

Jesus, lover of my soul,
Let me to Thy bosom fly,
While the nearer waters roll,
While the tempest still is high.
Hide me, O my Savior, hide,
Till the storm of life is past;
Safe into the haven guide;
Oh, receive my soul at last.

Other refuge have I none,
Hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone,
Still support and comfort me.
All my trust on Thee is stayed,
All my help from Thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head
With the shadow of Thy wing.

Wilt Thou not regard my call?
Wilt Thou not accept my prayer?
Lo! I sink, I faint, I fall—
Lo! on Thee I cast my care.
Reach me out Thy gracious hand!
While I of Thy strength receive,
Hoping against hope I stand,
Dying, and behold, I live.

Thou, O Christ, art all I want,
More than all in Thee I find;
Raise the fallen, cheer the faint,
Heal the sick, and lead the blind.
Just and holy is Thy Name,
Source of all true righteousness;
Thou art evermore the same,
Thou art full of truth and grace.

Plenteous grace with Thee is found,
Grace to cover all my sin;
Let the healing streams abound;
Make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art,
Freely let me take of Thee;
Spring Thou up within my heart;
Rise to all eternity.

Charles Wesley

Thursday, July 07, 2011

Monkeying Around!

So I always have dreams of being "crafty." I wish I had more time to devote to doing crafty things and wish I was a little more on the crafty side. I am in the process of planning my son's frist birthday party (which is for another post - but I can't figure out where the last year went - except that wherever it went it went way too fast!). I am excited about the plans for his party and we are going with a monkey theme. I think it will be very fun and very cute!

All that being said, I decided to make his birthday cards - thinking hey - I can do this and save money at the same time. So I discovered - yes, I can do this - but not so sure in the long run I saved money - lol! I have to say however that I am very excited about the final product and glad I decided to make them! They are each just slightly different in design which is fun too! Can't wait to hand them out!

Thanks to my friend Jamie - she helped me glue lots of rafia!




Saturday, June 04, 2011

My Great Thing


Six years ago today, I was up early excited about all the day had in store - - - - I was getting married!!!!!!!! Thinking about that day makes me smile so much! I had spent quite a few years praying that God would bring a godly man into my life and it seemed that it was never going to happen. The summer of 2003, God did a big work in my heart. He really worked that summer on my being content with Him alone and trusting him in being single. I could have honestly told you in August that summer that I was fine being single - ready to face life and be happy if that was what God had for me. Then the most amazing thing happened in September. A very handsome, kind and godly man showed up in central Missouri and I fell head-over-heels for him! The story about meeting Jeremy will have to be another post - but we can suffice to say, God brought me my "great thing." There is a song Jeremy and love and played at our wedding that says, "Praise to Him who gives us all good things." Psalm 103 was the verse on our napkin at our wedding:

Praise the LORD, my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the LORD, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits—
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

God not only satisfied my desire to be married - he abundantly blessed my life with exactly what he knew I needed. Jeremy is a blessing beyond what I could ask or imagine. He is my very best friend! Above all he loves Christ and that translates into an amazing love for myself and our children. For those who know me, you know I can at times worry or be fearful. Jeremy is my calm voice of reason. He lovingly points me to Christ and demonstrates through his life a complete trust in Christ and no reason to fear. I love him for many many reasons! He is kind, caring compassionate, fun, helpful, handsome, intelligent, outgoing, hardworking, student of God's word, gentle, trustworthy, a good listener, an amazing daddy, fun to laugh with, loves to travel, is an amazing grill man, is a foodie and this list could keep going! God knew exactly what I needed and I am thankful that in His perfect timing God brought Jeremy into my life! Did I love the long wait - - not so much - but the blessings were WELL worth the wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Six years ago today I got to marry my very best friend! Jeremy I love you with all my heart and I rejoice that God chose to bless me with you!!!!!! It was a wonderful wedding day. I pray our marriage will continue to grow and reflect Christ in all we do. I am excited about all God has in store for us! Jeremiah Lee Writebol is definitely my great thing! I love you babe!!!!!!!