Happy, Happy Birthday, Maya!
Love from here to the sky...and back,
Mommy :)
12.27.2009
12.18.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful for a new life that was safely delivered into this world.
Ellis Claire Fellin was born on December 17th, weighing 7 lbs. 8 oz...I hear she's absoutely beautiful, and I can't wait to see pictures and meet her!!
Congratulations, Katie & Yaw! Love you bunches!!
Sarah
Ellis Claire Fellin was born on December 17th, weighing 7 lbs. 8 oz...I hear she's absoutely beautiful, and I can't wait to see pictures and meet her!!
Congratulations, Katie & Yaw! Love you bunches!!
Sarah
12.10.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful for hot chocolate (specifically, SwissMiss) and marshmallow puff! :)
What are you thankful for today?
12.09.2009
Just Another Day
Hey there. Not much to blog about today, but I'm just trying to stay in a normal routine of doing it anyway...
How about this cold weather?!?!? I actually wore a coat today...even inside the grocery store! I bundled the kids up and braved the freezing frenzy to go to my mom's. Now we're back home and just relaxing the rest of the afternoon.
Chris & Carly...what the heck is up with no blogging or comments? sala mala pada sha tinki!!!!!!
Sam...love you. No, I really do. Thanks for loving me back even when you don't feel like it.
Kar...happy, happy birthday!
Jerry...tell Nikki to add me to facebook or myspace. Love you guys!!
Cozies & Warmth,
Sarah
How about this cold weather?!?!? I actually wore a coat today...even inside the grocery store! I bundled the kids up and braved the freezing frenzy to go to my mom's. Now we're back home and just relaxing the rest of the afternoon.
Chris & Carly...what the heck is up with no blogging or comments? sala mala pada sha tinki!!!!!!
Sam...love you. No, I really do. Thanks for loving me back even when you don't feel like it.
Kar...happy, happy birthday!
Jerry...tell Nikki to add me to facebook or myspace. Love you guys!!
Cozies & Warmth,
Sarah
12.08.2009
The Creeping Wilderness
After a few weeks of not being in church, ok wait, let me rephrase that. After a couple of months of not being in church, I'll admit that I've become a little heart-hardened and worldly-minded. My spiritual well-being hasn't necessarily been at the top of my priority list..."I've just been too busy." ;-) Yep, I know you've heard that one before...you've probably even said it yourself. And every time I say that, God smacks me in the forehead with a 2x4 quote that I heard a few years ago...Satan loves to interrupt God's business with busyness.
A faithful, loving, encouraging friend emailed me, and I was really convicted about something I've been doing--or rather, not doing. He said, "No great company sets a goal to slide into mediocrity. No in-love newlyweds plan to divorce down the road. No fit, muscular athlete figures how to put on a hundred pounds and get totally out of shape in the next few years. No neighborhood holds a meeting to outline steps toward a rundown community. No committed, vibrant Christian dreams of a day when he or she will walk far from God, living a life of joyless compromise.
The common denominator in all the above too-often-true scenarios?...neglect."
Wow.
I'm guilty. Are you? I quickly slouched in disappointment with myself, but he quickly reminded me that it doesn't have to be that way. He encouraged me to take care of myself and others, keeping my friendships vibrant and honest. And keeping our souls healthy and growing. "But, it will take determined work, paying attention to those persons and things helping us grow and excel; and maybe staying away from those persons and things the energy of which is centripetal."
With that said, I would like to challenge you, as he challenged me...to minimze this nasty n-word. Whether it involves you or me or God, this neglect thing needs to be, as Grady use to say, "gonk."
My friend suggested to me, and I'm suggesting to you, a buoyant, well-lighted, upbeat disposition that lightens the load, encourages the heart, and chases away the shadows of the person waiting behind you in line.
Let's do it. Together.
Hey God, sorry I've been neglecting the most important part of my life...You. Please give me the diligence to take care of my soul and walk ever more closely with you. Amen.
Big Love,
Sarah
A faithful, loving, encouraging friend emailed me, and I was really convicted about something I've been doing--or rather, not doing. He said, "No great company sets a goal to slide into mediocrity. No in-love newlyweds plan to divorce down the road. No fit, muscular athlete figures how to put on a hundred pounds and get totally out of shape in the next few years. No neighborhood holds a meeting to outline steps toward a rundown community. No committed, vibrant Christian dreams of a day when he or she will walk far from God, living a life of joyless compromise.
The common denominator in all the above too-often-true scenarios?...neglect."
Wow.
I'm guilty. Are you? I quickly slouched in disappointment with myself, but he quickly reminded me that it doesn't have to be that way. He encouraged me to take care of myself and others, keeping my friendships vibrant and honest. And keeping our souls healthy and growing. "But, it will take determined work, paying attention to those persons and things helping us grow and excel; and maybe staying away from those persons and things the energy of which is centripetal."
With that said, I would like to challenge you, as he challenged me...to minimze this nasty n-word. Whether it involves you or me or God, this neglect thing needs to be, as Grady use to say, "gonk."
My friend suggested to me, and I'm suggesting to you, a buoyant, well-lighted, upbeat disposition that lightens the load, encourages the heart, and chases away the shadows of the person waiting behind you in line.
Let's do it. Together.
Hey God, sorry I've been neglecting the most important part of my life...You. Please give me the diligence to take care of my soul and walk ever more closely with you. Amen.
Big Love,
Sarah
12.07.2009
Dom's Xmas Program
Nic had a program tonight. After an initial meltdown, his teachers finally convinced him to walk up on stage--by pushing a stroller, one of his favorite things to do.
So the program was super cute, he ended the show by singing We Wish You A Merry Christmas, then led the crowd in an applause by clapping for himself. :)
I'm so proud of him. Please continue to pray for Dom, Steph and Mike. He will be going to school in Maize beginning next year.
Big Love,
Sarah
Monday Monkey Madness
Mornin', gang! Long time no...blog. And, long time no comments from you!! Y'all are slackin' so get with it, will ya?! ;)
Well, it's prompty 9:30 a.m. Sam is snuggled up in bed snoring away, Gabriel has Sam's glasses, trying to fit them on his stubby little nose, and Maya...well, "Crazy Cora" is having a blast testing her mama. :) I've cleaned an entire stick of butter off the couch; and you ask, "Well, where were you while she weas demolishing a stick of butter on the furniture?" Lemme think...oh, I was simply switching out the laundry. :) And, in the 90 minutes that she has been awake, she's had 3 "accidents"; although, when she curls up her nose and gives me a snotty, "I'm sorry, mommy," I have a hard time dealing with such incidents as accidents. Needless to say...I'm ready for...a nap...or a Smirnoff Ice...or...how about a Xanax? lol
I'm looking forward to this evening...Sam is going to keep the kids while I go to a school program for Dominic & Grady. I'm guessing it will be quite a show lol...I'll report back tomorrow.
Hope you all are well and fluless.
Big Love,
Sarah
Well, it's prompty 9:30 a.m. Sam is snuggled up in bed snoring away, Gabriel has Sam's glasses, trying to fit them on his stubby little nose, and Maya...well, "Crazy Cora" is having a blast testing her mama. :) I've cleaned an entire stick of butter off the couch; and you ask, "Well, where were you while she weas demolishing a stick of butter on the furniture?" Lemme think...oh, I was simply switching out the laundry. :) And, in the 90 minutes that she has been awake, she's had 3 "accidents"; although, when she curls up her nose and gives me a snotty, "I'm sorry, mommy," I have a hard time dealing with such incidents as accidents. Needless to say...I'm ready for...a nap...or a Smirnoff Ice...or...how about a Xanax? lol
I'm looking forward to this evening...Sam is going to keep the kids while I go to a school program for Dominic & Grady. I'm guessing it will be quite a show lol...I'll report back tomorrow.
Hope you all are well and fluless.
Big Love,
Sarah
11.29.2009
Wedding Pics
Howdy! Trusting you all had a fabulous holiday with family and friends. I must admit I had the weirdest Thanksgiving dinner I've ever had...
Twix and a can of Pepsi. :)
Thankfully, I got off work in time to enjoy REAL leftovers for supper. lol
I just wanted to post a few pictures from my sister's wedding so those of you who couldn't make it can at least see how beautiful she was. :)
Big Love,
Sarah
Twix and a can of Pepsi. :)
Thankfully, I got off work in time to enjoy REAL leftovers for supper. lol
I just wanted to post a few pictures from my sister's wedding so those of you who couldn't make it can at least see how beautiful she was. :)
Big Love,
Sarah
My gorgeous little princess...
My tall brother-in-law with his short sister-in-law and short cousins 
THE princess of the day with her little handsome prince 
Congrats, again, Steph & Mike! Love you!
11.25.2009
Thanksgiving Eve
Hey, y'all...
Just a very quick post to say hello and wish all of you safe travels if you're going somewhere for the holiday.
As for my gang, we are heading to Uncle Eddie's for the yearly Thanksgiving Eve poker party. And for those who are wondering...no, you won't find me at the poker table...I have Victory luck. Instead, I'll be wrangling little monkeys and eating Aunt Rosie's pie crust. :)
Until tomorrow...
Much love to you all,
Sarah
Just a very quick post to say hello and wish all of you safe travels if you're going somewhere for the holiday.
As for my gang, we are heading to Uncle Eddie's for the yearly Thanksgiving Eve poker party. And for those who are wondering...no, you won't find me at the poker table...I have Victory luck. Instead, I'll be wrangling little monkeys and eating Aunt Rosie's pie crust. :)
Until tomorrow...
Much love to you all,
Sarah
11.15.2009
Wanted: Black Angus
It wasn't until I received this in the mail on Saturday (without a postmark) that I realized I am no longer a city girl.
LOST
BLACK ANGUS
STEER
Left ear notched
small nubby horns
1,100 lbs.
Escaped from 351 E. 101st North
Please contact us if you have seen him or if you
have cattle that he might have befriended.
Remember when I posted a few months ago about a calf mooing at me in the front yard?...hmmm...I wonder if he grew some nubby horns...??? :)
Big Love,
Sarah
11.12.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful for so many things.
First, I want to say how thankful I am for my family, specifically this week, for Mom, Dad, Amy, Lou, Grandma V, and Brad...
I was extremely sick Sunday evening, and while mom and dad took the kids for the night, Amy and Lou took care of me...providing spare clothes, a comfy bed, lots of love, and good rest. The following morning, I spent some time with GGV and Brad, who allowed me to vent and release a little stress...that's always a good thing, and I felt much better when I left.
Secondly, I'd like to say how very thankful I am for all of our veterans who have fought endlessly and sacrificed their lives so I can enjoy my salvation, my worship, my family, and everything else in this short circle of life. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thirdly, I'm thankful for chicken noodle soup, crackers, jell-o, and sprite...all the 'little things' that help soothe a yucky, sore tummy! Please keep Maya in your prayers as she fights off this battle with the flu.
Lastly, I'm thankful for the simple fact that God is unchanging. While everything around seems to be a complete whirlwind, He is still God. When my feeble mind questions His goodness and intentions, He is still God...and He never stops loving me, regardless of how ignorant or selfish I am.
What are you thankful for, today?
First, I want to say how thankful I am for my family, specifically this week, for Mom, Dad, Amy, Lou, Grandma V, and Brad...
I was extremely sick Sunday evening, and while mom and dad took the kids for the night, Amy and Lou took care of me...providing spare clothes, a comfy bed, lots of love, and good rest. The following morning, I spent some time with GGV and Brad, who allowed me to vent and release a little stress...that's always a good thing, and I felt much better when I left.
Secondly, I'd like to say how very thankful I am for all of our veterans who have fought endlessly and sacrificed their lives so I can enjoy my salvation, my worship, my family, and everything else in this short circle of life. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thirdly, I'm thankful for chicken noodle soup, crackers, jell-o, and sprite...all the 'little things' that help soothe a yucky, sore tummy! Please keep Maya in your prayers as she fights off this battle with the flu.
Lastly, I'm thankful for the simple fact that God is unchanging. While everything around seems to be a complete whirlwind, He is still God. When my feeble mind questions His goodness and intentions, He is still God...and He never stops loving me, regardless of how ignorant or selfish I am.
What are you thankful for, today?
11.09.2009
Hi, everybody! Hope this email finds you having a GREAT day. After having a rough night and a really rough morning, I am finally sitting here, tearless and tired. Nonetheless, I'm in the office, the window is open, the curtains are back, and boy howdy, do I have a purdy view!! ;) And that's just the colorful trees, weeds, and uncut grass...not to mention the 6 pt. buck that was out by the truck earlier.
Man, isn't God good? Quiet energy...gives me the strength to go on...on days like these, when I have no desire left.
I love you all so much...and I miss you all like crazy!! Come visit me...all of you who read this stinkin' thing! :)
Big Love,
Sarah
Man, isn't God good? Quiet energy...gives me the strength to go on...on days like these, when I have no desire left.
I love you all so much...and I miss you all like crazy!! Come visit me...all of you who read this stinkin' thing! :)
Big Love,
Sarah
11.07.2009
BUSTED!
okay, so we all know it was bound to happen...
I got caught texting at work lol...
so yeah, I got the "you're gonna get fired" threat and a really nasty glare from the Wicked Witch of the South Desk...and then was threatened again before the day was over about being terminated; needless to say, it WASN'T a good day at work for Sarah, the rebel. :)
enough about me, let's talk about you...
I wanna know what YOU have gotten busted doing...anywhere, anytime, any place...let's hear it!!
waiting for YOU to comment,
Sarah
I got caught texting at work lol...
so yeah, I got the "you're gonna get fired" threat and a really nasty glare from the Wicked Witch of the South Desk...and then was threatened again before the day was over about being terminated; needless to say, it WASN'T a good day at work for Sarah, the rebel. :)
enough about me, let's talk about you...
I wanna know what YOU have gotten busted doing...anywhere, anytime, any place...let's hear it!!
waiting for YOU to comment,
Sarah
11.03.2009
Time for Pics!
Okay, for those of you who have remarked that you're not sure Sam and I are really married because you've never seen pictures...well, I finally broke down and created a slideshow. I'm displaying it above, temporarily, so you can all see how NOT so beautiful I was on my wedding day lol...I was so miserable. (Sorry Sam, nothing against you!! lol) However, I must admit that I think I should win some sort of prize for having the simplest (no decorations), cheapest ($200), quickest (less than 8 minutes), wedding...right, Katie?!?!? ;)
Now, on to the CUTE pics from Halloween...enjoy!!
This is my little gnome who wouldn't wear his hat or beard, but he LOVED trick-or-treating!
And, my other little gnome who wasn't shy at all about wearing her full costume...in fact, she slept in the dress! :)
Such sweet facial expressions...so excited!
And yes, we LOVE trick-or-treating at Mr. Mathews' house every year (my old high school prinicpal lol)
The night ended back at gg's house, as usual, and Dad never fails to disappoint us by not dressing up each year...neither does Morgan. :)
Scroll to the next post for additional pictures....
10.29.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful for celebrations!!!
I'm thankful for wedding showers and baby showers and weddings and welcome home parties and birthdays and holidays....including HALLOWEEN! I'm thankful for costumes and candy and humor and fun!
We went to a wedding for a very good friend who recently moved away, and it was beautiful. I'm posting some pics...cuz it's my blog and I want to. :)
Big Love,
Sarah
Awww...so happy. Congrats, Tiff!!
Big Love,
I'm thankful for wedding showers and baby showers and weddings and welcome home parties and birthdays and holidays....including HALLOWEEN! I'm thankful for costumes and candy and humor and fun!
We went to a wedding for a very good friend who recently moved away, and it was beautiful. I'm posting some pics...cuz it's my blog and I want to. :)
Big Love,
Sarah
This is Tiff's husband, Josh, meeting all 4 of us for the first time. He just safely returned home after serving a year in Iraq.
I absolutely love this picture of Tiff reading her vows!
What do you suppose he just told her? lol
Yeahhhhhhhhh!!!!
Awww...so happy. Congrats, Tiff!!
Big Love,
Sarah
10.28.2009
For Carol
Well, although I would LOVE to have a really outrageous, hysterical story to tell about my mama-in-law on National Mother-in-Law Day, I can't. Because I don't have one. lol...
Unfortunately, circumstances have not allowed my kids or me to spend much time with you, Carol, and I'm so sorry for that. Every time I see Maya or Gabriel do something unimaginable, ornery, or intelligent, it's almost guaranteed that I tell Sam, "Your mom has no idea what she is missing." And, I'm pretty sure I could reciprocate the comment regarding you and Ronnie, in that I have no idea what I'm missing, either, only having met you guys 1 time.
But, regardless of the distance, please know that you are very much appreciated...your thoughts...your cards...your gifts...your phone calls...your comments...and yes, even the reason we are inlaws, now--your son. (especially the cooking skills you taught him) :)
I really hope that you and Ronnie will be able to meet Gabriel very soon and see for yourself what awesome grandbabies you have in Kansas...and of course, what an awesome daughter-in-law you have, too! ;) And...I hope that someway, somehow, I can get to know you better even though we are a thousand miles apart.
Big Love,
Sarah
Unfortunately, circumstances have not allowed my kids or me to spend much time with you, Carol, and I'm so sorry for that. Every time I see Maya or Gabriel do something unimaginable, ornery, or intelligent, it's almost guaranteed that I tell Sam, "Your mom has no idea what she is missing." And, I'm pretty sure I could reciprocate the comment regarding you and Ronnie, in that I have no idea what I'm missing, either, only having met you guys 1 time.
But, regardless of the distance, please know that you are very much appreciated...your thoughts...your cards...your gifts...your phone calls...your comments...and yes, even the reason we are inlaws, now--your son. (especially the cooking skills you taught him) :)
I really hope that you and Ronnie will be able to meet Gabriel very soon and see for yourself what awesome grandbabies you have in Kansas...and of course, what an awesome daughter-in-law you have, too! ;) And...I hope that someway, somehow, I can get to know you better even though we are a thousand miles apart.
Big Love,
Sarah
10.22.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I am thankful that I am not a victim of domestic violence.
Today I am thankful that, as a child, and even still today, I have never witnessed my mom (or my dad) being battered, threatened, abused, intimidated, or isolated by some coward who felt the need to maintain some sort of gross power and control over another individual.
I am thankful that, for those who are not as fortunate as I am, there are shelters, case management, counseling, and support groups available to offer help and provide safe environments.
I am thankful for Project SAFE. I am thankful for the Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center, and I am thankful for Harbor House.
What are you thankful for today?
Big Love,
Sarah
PS...Today, I am also thankful for pumpkin seeds!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
Today I am thankful that, as a child, and even still today, I have never witnessed my mom (or my dad) being battered, threatened, abused, intimidated, or isolated by some coward who felt the need to maintain some sort of gross power and control over another individual.
I am thankful that, for those who are not as fortunate as I am, there are shelters, case management, counseling, and support groups available to offer help and provide safe environments.
I am thankful for Project SAFE. I am thankful for the Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center, and I am thankful for Harbor House.
What are you thankful for today?
Big Love,
Sarah
PS...Today, I am also thankful for pumpkin seeds!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
10.18.2009
Sunday Snooze
Seems as though I'm not gonna get my Nazarene nap, today. I have the oldest little booger konked out, but my little cowboy is still going strong...does it ever calm down?!?!?!?!?!?!?!
Yesterday we took an adventure to the pumpkin patch. When Sam saw the pumpkins on the porch, he was a little irritated that I didn't wait for him to go along with us...but I assured him that he didn't miss a thing...both Maya and Gabriel were completely uninterested in anything there, other than digging their shoes into the wet sand. Maybe in a few more years...
Not much going on, other than that. They continue to grow like weeds and learn new words every day that I could actually live without hearing lol...but, I guess that's the life with children. :)
Love you all and hope ur enjoying the fabulous, cool weather!!
Big Love,
Sarah
Yesterday we took an adventure to the pumpkin patch. When Sam saw the pumpkins on the porch, he was a little irritated that I didn't wait for him to go along with us...but I assured him that he didn't miss a thing...both Maya and Gabriel were completely uninterested in anything there, other than digging their shoes into the wet sand. Maybe in a few more years...
Not much going on, other than that. They continue to grow like weeds and learn new words every day that I could actually live without hearing lol...but, I guess that's the life with children. :)
Love you all and hope ur enjoying the fabulous, cool weather!!
Big Love,
Sarah
10.15.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I am thankful for people and organizations who continuously and tirelessly "do good." Here are just a few of my favorites that quickly come to mind:
Agape'Care Cradle, Inc.
The Kyrie Foundation
My aunt & uncle
Oprah
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Shannon Barnes
Sharon Price
Debbie Mullen
Make a Wish
Kyrie's Gift
Wouldn't it just be awesome if every single one of us could, for just 24 hours, put all of our 'umph' and 'gusto' into doing good? I think we should pick a day and do it collectively, then sit back and watch what happens.
Any takers?
Big Love,
Sarah
Agape'Care Cradle, Inc.
The Kyrie Foundation
My aunt & uncle
Oprah
Nazarene Compassionate Ministries
Shannon Barnes
Sharon Price
Debbie Mullen
Make a Wish
Kyrie's Gift
Wouldn't it just be awesome if every single one of us could, for just 24 hours, put all of our 'umph' and 'gusto' into doing good? I think we should pick a day and do it collectively, then sit back and watch what happens.
Any takers?
Big Love,
Sarah
10.08.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful for healing that comes along with time. One year ago at this very moment, I was totally and completely drained from head to toe after battling consecutive, ferocious panic attacks for what seemed years in itself. Although 48 hours had passed, I still felt like I had been hit by a semi and splattered in the road by thousands more.
I'm thankful that on October 6, 2008, my life changed. It hasn't been easy by any means, but it has built strength, endurance, love, and closer relationships.
I'm thankful for my dad, who was with me from the moment I melted until the moment I was able to return home.
I'm thankful for Sam, who never quit praying for me.
I'm thankful for my mom, who was the person who was able to snap me back into reality by simply stating, "Sarah, you are fine. You are going to get out of this bed, you are going to walk out of here, and we are going home to have spaghetti for supper."
I'm thankful for my babies. Thank God they didn't have to experience their mama in such a crazy state of mind. And although they weren't there, their presence in pictures covering my hospital bed brought me comfort and peace.
I'm thankful for my pastor at the time, who sat by my hospital bed and held my hand.
I'm thankful for you, Carly, Chris, Jerry, Katie, and Ronda...for all of your love and encouragement, over the past 365 days.
I'm just thankful. So thankful.
What are you thankful for today? (Don't be afraid to actually leave a comment and tell me!)
Big Love,
Sarah
I'm thankful that on October 6, 2008, my life changed. It hasn't been easy by any means, but it has built strength, endurance, love, and closer relationships.
I'm thankful for my dad, who was with me from the moment I melted until the moment I was able to return home.
I'm thankful for Sam, who never quit praying for me.
I'm thankful for my mom, who was the person who was able to snap me back into reality by simply stating, "Sarah, you are fine. You are going to get out of this bed, you are going to walk out of here, and we are going home to have spaghetti for supper."
I'm thankful for my babies. Thank God they didn't have to experience their mama in such a crazy state of mind. And although they weren't there, their presence in pictures covering my hospital bed brought me comfort and peace.
I'm thankful for my pastor at the time, who sat by my hospital bed and held my hand.
I'm thankful for you, Carly, Chris, Jerry, Katie, and Ronda...for all of your love and encouragement, over the past 365 days.
I'm just thankful. So thankful.
What are you thankful for today? (Don't be afraid to actually leave a comment and tell me!)
Big Love,
Sarah
10.05.2009
Steph's Shower
I can't believe I'm actually posting for the 2nd time in 24 hours! :) Well, here are a few pics from Steph's wedding shower...more will come in the future.
What an absolutely beautiful wedding my sister had! Thank you all so much for your prayers...and please do continue praying for the new Clopton household. :) For those of you who didn't make it to the wedding, the song you are hearing right now is the song Steph walked down the aisle to; after a few tears were shed and a few deep breaths were taken, all went well. She was gorgeous, and very, very happy. My very best to you, Steph, for a long, happy, life together with Mike. You so deserve it. I love you.
Sam was off last night, and we had somewhat of a long night; first, Maya was stung by a bee in the van on our way home. Not really a big deal, but you know how it is for a 2-year-old...a REALLY big deal! :) Then, Gabriel came down with a nasty fever and was obviously not feeling well at all. So I was awake the majority of the night with a sick baby...and those of you who are parents know how those nights seem to never end! Thankfully, his fever broke this morning, and he's doing better, although still very cranky from lack of zzzz's.
One more little sweet thing before I sign off...I was laying in bed this morning, and Maya and Gabriel had been awake for about 10 minutes. They had both been running back and forth from my bedroom to the kitchen. Both came back into the room, and Maya hopped up on the bed with me, and Gus was getting into something on the floor. So, curiously, I asked her,
"Maya, what's your brother doing?" She just acted as if I didn't even exist, so a little louder I asked,
"Hey, what's bubby doing down there?" Again, she totally ignored me as she is so good at doing when she's in her own little world. So for the 3rd time, I whispered,
"Maya Jane Shaffer, what is Gabriel getting into down there on the floor?"
Agitated and obviously sick of her mom's redundancy, she gritted her teeth and firmly stated,
"I don't KNOW Margo!!!"
If you get bored today, grab a good Chevy Chase movie and have a few laughs. ;)
Big Love,
Sarah
Sam was off last night, and we had somewhat of a long night; first, Maya was stung by a bee in the van on our way home. Not really a big deal, but you know how it is for a 2-year-old...a REALLY big deal! :) Then, Gabriel came down with a nasty fever and was obviously not feeling well at all. So I was awake the majority of the night with a sick baby...and those of you who are parents know how those nights seem to never end! Thankfully, his fever broke this morning, and he's doing better, although still very cranky from lack of zzzz's.
One more little sweet thing before I sign off...I was laying in bed this morning, and Maya and Gabriel had been awake for about 10 minutes. They had both been running back and forth from my bedroom to the kitchen. Both came back into the room, and Maya hopped up on the bed with me, and Gus was getting into something on the floor. So, curiously, I asked her,
"Maya, what's your brother doing?" She just acted as if I didn't even exist, so a little louder I asked,
"Hey, what's bubby doing down there?" Again, she totally ignored me as she is so good at doing when she's in her own little world. So for the 3rd time, I whispered,
"Maya Jane Shaffer, what is Gabriel getting into down there on the floor?"
Agitated and obviously sick of her mom's redundancy, she gritted her teeth and firmly stated,
"I don't KNOW Margo!!!"
If you get bored today, grab a good Chevy Chase movie and have a few laughs. ;)
Big Love,
Sarah
10.04.2009
I need a favor...
When you kneel by your bed tonight or quietly whisper at your breakfast table, please pray for our cousin, Christian.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/christianshaffer
Big Love,
Sarah
9.27.2009
Thankful Thursday (on Sunday)
Today I'm thankful for positive influence.
Happy 33rd Anniversary, Mom & Dad! I love you, and I'm so thankful for your commitment to each other.
Love,
Pete
Happy 33rd Anniversary, Mom & Dad! I love you, and I'm so thankful for your commitment to each other.
Love,
Pete
9.21.2009
Yes! A car, it is! A very pretty, beige, excellent condition, 1989 Buick...something. Um...I don't remember so I'll have to ask him again. lol! :)
Well, Friday evening I ended up spending the night at my mom's...surprise, surprise lol. The auction was tons of fun, but the number in attendance wasn't nearly what was expected...I think my dad ended up $200 in the hole. And things that should have been getting bids at $1200 were being SOLD! at $150. My dad carried away a yellow tractor for Gus for 15 bucks. I caught myself acting goofy with my sister one time and remembered I probably needed to keep my hands in my pockets! :) But, that's okay...we had a really good time.
So not much else going on for now. After spending Friday night with my mom and Saturday night with my sister, I STAYED HOME ALL BY MYSELF LAST NIGHT! WOOHOO!!! :) Granted, Sam drugged me with Xanax before he left for work, but hey, I got a good night's sleep! lol
Alright, well time to get ready for the dreadful post office job. Oh yeah, please keep Maya in your prayers. She's having some "girly" problems so we're going to have more lab work done this week.
Big Love,
Sarah
Well, Friday evening I ended up spending the night at my mom's...surprise, surprise lol. The auction was tons of fun, but the number in attendance wasn't nearly what was expected...I think my dad ended up $200 in the hole. And things that should have been getting bids at $1200 were being SOLD! at $150. My dad carried away a yellow tractor for Gus for 15 bucks. I caught myself acting goofy with my sister one time and remembered I probably needed to keep my hands in my pockets! :) But, that's okay...we had a really good time.
So not much else going on for now. After spending Friday night with my mom and Saturday night with my sister, I STAYED HOME ALL BY MYSELF LAST NIGHT! WOOHOO!!! :) Granted, Sam drugged me with Xanax before he left for work, but hey, I got a good night's sleep! lol
Alright, well time to get ready for the dreadful post office job. Oh yeah, please keep Maya in your prayers. She's having some "girly" problems so we're going to have more lab work done this week.
Big Love,
Sarah
9.18.2009
More Change
I am so comforted knowing that even though life seems to be changing by the second, I serve a GREAT, BIG God who is unchanging, uncreated, and ungoverned!
So, how y'all doin today? I hope you're fabulous! This week has really flown by, and it's come to the day I've been dreading...
Sam starts 3rd shift tonight! :(
Not sure how I'm going to handle things yet; I want to attempt to be a "big girl" and stay all by myself, but that's going to be VERY TRYING for me, considering 90% of my panic issues heighten from 12 a.m.-6 a.m. As I write this, I'm still debating on what I'm going to do tonight, but if I know myself like I think I do, I'm guessing I'll end up at muh mama's house. :)
Tomorrow is likely to be a fun day. I'm going to be working at an auction with mom and dad, running the concessions. So, if any of you Wichita-area readers are out and about, stop in for lunch...we are selling burritos--yes, the good, homemade ones, bean & cheese or pork (which are a little more on the spicy side)--along with the typical nachos, hot dogs, and polish sausages. We will be in the County Extension building on the southeast corner of 21st & Ridge. And, who knows? You might just find something worth buying at the auction, too! ;)
Oh, holy cow...I can't leave this out. I was SO STINKIN' BLESSED today...my dad bought me a surprise...any guesses what it could be? Leave it in the comment section, and I'll post on it tomorrow.
Big Love,
Sarah
So, how y'all doin today? I hope you're fabulous! This week has really flown by, and it's come to the day I've been dreading...
Sam starts 3rd shift tonight! :(
Not sure how I'm going to handle things yet; I want to attempt to be a "big girl" and stay all by myself, but that's going to be VERY TRYING for me, considering 90% of my panic issues heighten from 12 a.m.-6 a.m. As I write this, I'm still debating on what I'm going to do tonight, but if I know myself like I think I do, I'm guessing I'll end up at muh mama's house. :)
Tomorrow is likely to be a fun day. I'm going to be working at an auction with mom and dad, running the concessions. So, if any of you Wichita-area readers are out and about, stop in for lunch...we are selling burritos--yes, the good, homemade ones, bean & cheese or pork (which are a little more on the spicy side)--along with the typical nachos, hot dogs, and polish sausages. We will be in the County Extension building on the southeast corner of 21st & Ridge. And, who knows? You might just find something worth buying at the auction, too! ;)
Oh, holy cow...I can't leave this out. I was SO STINKIN' BLESSED today...my dad bought me a surprise...any guesses what it could be? Leave it in the comment section, and I'll post on it tomorrow.
Big Love,
Sarah
9.11.2009
9/11/09
I went to a revival last night and was pleased when the song leader led us in the National Anthem.
There's nothing I really have to say about 9/11 as I type this...it's obviously a day we will never forget. It's one of those days etched in your mind forever; a day you can recall exactly what you were doing at exact times. May we remember what happened that day, both good and bad...and though it won't be easy, let us be thankful. We are told in Scripture that HIS thoughts are not OUR thoughts...and He has an ultimate plan that He is carrying out even though we can't fathom a reasonable explanation for such tragic acts.
God, help us and our country. Amen.
Big Love,
Sarah
There's nothing I really have to say about 9/11 as I type this...it's obviously a day we will never forget. It's one of those days etched in your mind forever; a day you can recall exactly what you were doing at exact times. May we remember what happened that day, both good and bad...and though it won't be easy, let us be thankful. We are told in Scripture that HIS thoughts are not OUR thoughts...and He has an ultimate plan that He is carrying out even though we can't fathom a reasonable explanation for such tragic acts.
God, help us and our country. Amen.
Big Love,
Sarah
9.10.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful for encouragement.
Each day this week, I have received encouragement from a specific person, and it has really made a difference in how my week is going!
On Monday, I received an email from a good friend who faithfully encourages and uplifts...and it was exactly what I needed on Monday!
Tuesday's encouragement came in a happy, funny way...sit back and get a refill of Sprite for this one. :) *clearing my throat* Typically, my mom takes Dominic outside each day to get on the bus for school. Those of you in the VC area will recall that Tuesday was a very dark, "I wanna sleep in," pouring down rainy day. And, I kinda have a feeling that there may have been a slight plan for mom to just happen to be rocking Gus to sleep at the time Nicky had to get on the bus. So good ol' Aunt Sarah got out the umbrella, and we waited by the front door at 12:20 p.m.--the time that mom told me the bus usually arrives. "Be watching for it. The bus that turns the corner off of 2nd street is Dom's bus." Wanting to prevent my little lovey from getting drenched in the sheets of rain, I paid close attention, and as soon as I saw the bus turn off of 2nd street, I flung open the door and got him out to the curb in perfect time for the bus to stop and for him to...watch the bus drive right on past the house! Yep, that's right. It wasn't Dom's bus. I thought to myself, "Okay, it's like 12:27 now so his bus HAS to be the next one coming. I know he's going to fight me and scream at the top of his lungs if I try to make him go back inside, so we'll just stand here under the umbrella and try to keep as dry as possible." HA! Just as the thought left my head, I heard Dom's "warning" giggle--the almost but not quite 'laugh' he belts before he's about to do something mischievous; and the next thing I knew, he was running down the block yelling, "Catch him, Aunt Sawah, he's wunning away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Now, for those of you who know me, you know these 3 things: 1. I hate wearing shoes. Yes, I was barefoot in the rain; 2. I can't run. I can move my legs 100 mph and I go absolutely nowhere; 3. When I start laughing, and I mean really laughing, I can't stop. Needless to say, the chase was on. Mom later told me she looked out the front door and saw Dom way down at the end of the block, and all she could hear was me laughing and my wet feet hittin' the pavement...
As you can imagine, by that time, both of us were totally soaking wet...and, of course, up pulls the bus for school. :) I found out yesterday that his teachers had to change him once he got into class...but mom said his shoes and socks were still gushing water when he came home that day. Poor little guy...but man, was it fun just to be silly and laugh in the rain!! I was so encouraged. And guess what? I drove to work that night ALONE...ON THE INTERSTATE...WITH NO PANIC ATTACK!!!!!!!!!! Exactly what I needed on Tuesday.
Wednesday's encouragement was, again, from a very special, close family friend who simply called to let me know he was praying for me. Not only that, but he very boldly told me to, "Get up." And, that's exactly what I did. I got up. Exactly what I needed on Wednesday.
And, here I am. Going strong again, ready to meet the day head-on and fight the good fight that Christ has empowered me to fight.
Encouragement...what a blessing.
What are you thankful for today?
Big Love,
Sarah
Each day this week, I have received encouragement from a specific person, and it has really made a difference in how my week is going!
On Monday, I received an email from a good friend who faithfully encourages and uplifts...and it was exactly what I needed on Monday!
Tuesday's encouragement came in a happy, funny way...sit back and get a refill of Sprite for this one. :) *clearing my throat* Typically, my mom takes Dominic outside each day to get on the bus for school. Those of you in the VC area will recall that Tuesday was a very dark, "I wanna sleep in," pouring down rainy day. And, I kinda have a feeling that there may have been a slight plan for mom to just happen to be rocking Gus to sleep at the time Nicky had to get on the bus. So good ol' Aunt Sarah got out the umbrella, and we waited by the front door at 12:20 p.m.--the time that mom told me the bus usually arrives. "Be watching for it. The bus that turns the corner off of 2nd street is Dom's bus." Wanting to prevent my little lovey from getting drenched in the sheets of rain, I paid close attention, and as soon as I saw the bus turn off of 2nd street, I flung open the door and got him out to the curb in perfect time for the bus to stop and for him to...watch the bus drive right on past the house! Yep, that's right. It wasn't Dom's bus. I thought to myself, "Okay, it's like 12:27 now so his bus HAS to be the next one coming. I know he's going to fight me and scream at the top of his lungs if I try to make him go back inside, so we'll just stand here under the umbrella and try to keep as dry as possible." HA! Just as the thought left my head, I heard Dom's "warning" giggle--the almost but not quite 'laugh' he belts before he's about to do something mischievous; and the next thing I knew, he was running down the block yelling, "Catch him, Aunt Sawah, he's wunning away!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Now, for those of you who know me, you know these 3 things: 1. I hate wearing shoes. Yes, I was barefoot in the rain; 2. I can't run. I can move my legs 100 mph and I go absolutely nowhere; 3. When I start laughing, and I mean really laughing, I can't stop. Needless to say, the chase was on. Mom later told me she looked out the front door and saw Dom way down at the end of the block, and all she could hear was me laughing and my wet feet hittin' the pavement...
As you can imagine, by that time, both of us were totally soaking wet...and, of course, up pulls the bus for school. :) I found out yesterday that his teachers had to change him once he got into class...but mom said his shoes and socks were still gushing water when he came home that day. Poor little guy...but man, was it fun just to be silly and laugh in the rain!! I was so encouraged. And guess what? I drove to work that night ALONE...ON THE INTERSTATE...WITH NO PANIC ATTACK!!!!!!!!!! Exactly what I needed on Tuesday.
Wednesday's encouragement was, again, from a very special, close family friend who simply called to let me know he was praying for me. Not only that, but he very boldly told me to, "Get up." And, that's exactly what I did. I got up. Exactly what I needed on Wednesday.
And, here I am. Going strong again, ready to meet the day head-on and fight the good fight that Christ has empowered me to fight.
Encouragement...what a blessing.
What are you thankful for today?
Big Love,
Sarah
9.06.2009
Crying to Jesus
Hey, God. My hands are shakin' and my feet are tappin' and I need you right now. I've been tryin' hard this week to soar like an eagle, but I feel like I've spent more time than ever before down on the ground with the turkeys! I pray that you will lift me back up and strengthen me; strengthen me with Your Holy Scripture, strengthen my spiritual walk with You, and tone me with Your Holy Spirit. Thanks for carrying me each time I crash...I love You, and I trust You. Talk to You later...
Mornin' gang. Another rough morning. Probably an effect of the Pepsi I drank last night...please pray for my caffeine addiction to totally and completely cease in the name of Jesus! I know better than to drink it, but I had a migraine coming on and Pepsi does the trick...so here I am...Sunday morning...awake since 4:00 a.m. while everyone else has been peacefully snoozing. Had to have Xanax. I feel pathetic.
You know how sometimes you just have to sit down and really cry? I mean, really, really cry...like fall to your knees and shake and just totally resurrender yourself to the One who can pick you up and give you the strength to stand? I had to have one of those moments this morning...and I'm not sure it's over yet. It's on these mornings, when I feel like an absolute crazy kook who doesn't deserve to have a faithful husband or precious babies from Heaven or supportive family...and all I can do is cry to Jesus. I'm reminded of a favorite song,
And steep and filled with pain,
So if your sky is dark
And pours the rain...
Cry to Jesus,
Cry to Jesus,
Cry to Jesus and LIVE.
I'm trying to live. Never in my life did I think I'd have to literally put effort into and try to live. But, here I am. I'm working hard on understanding the definition of faith as RISK, but I'm crashing more than I'm flying lol...reminds me of another part of the same song...
And like a newborn baby
Don't be afraid to crawl,
And remember when we walk
Sometimes we fall...
So fall on Jesus,
Fall on Jesus,
Fall on Jesus and LIVE!
Guys, I truly covet your prayers. I need them. I can't get thru my days without them. I'm keeping my nose above water right now...and I need you. More than ever.
trusting more & fearing less,
Sarah
9.03.2009
Thankful Thursday
Today I'm thankful for God's perfect timing.
Not really sure what He's up to these days; in fact, I'll admit I'm not really sure what He's up to most of the time, but I'm glad that His timing is never too early or never too late.
What are you thankful for today?
trusting more & fearing less,
Sarah
Not really sure what He's up to these days; in fact, I'll admit I'm not really sure what He's up to most of the time, but I'm glad that His timing is never too early or never too late.
What are you thankful for today?
trusting more & fearing less,
Sarah
8.30.2009
This is the Day
Wow! Can you believe we only have 2 days left of August?!?!?!?! Absolutely crazy.
Well, I'm wide awake this morning while Sam, Maya, and Gus are snoozing. I LOVE mornings...especially peaceful & quiet mornings! :)
Thank you all so much for your prayers and support lately. All the phone calls and emails...very much appreciated. And yes, things have been going, albeit gradually, better!
Sam & I are both on vacation...WOOHOO!!! We had so many things we wanted to do and so many people we wanted to see. But we have made the final conclusion that it would be best for us to just stay at home and...CLEAN!!! What better way to spend a vacation, right? lol NOT. But, it needs to be done, as we have lots of rearranging to do.
Not sure about the post office yet...I will find out my new schedule this week, so please be in prayer that I will manage to get assigned to a daytime slot! Sam will be starting 3rd shift very soon, and with my hatred of nighttime, it's likely to be a big challenge.
Steph's wedding is quickly approaching! I'm excited for her shower...I'm looking forward to seeing everyone...we're going to have so much fun! :)
Okay, well I hear my little bear growling so I'm going to sign off for now. Can't wait for church this morning...and I hope you can't, either!
Big Love,
Sarah
Well, I'm wide awake this morning while Sam, Maya, and Gus are snoozing. I LOVE mornings...especially peaceful & quiet mornings! :)
Thank you all so much for your prayers and support lately. All the phone calls and emails...very much appreciated. And yes, things have been going, albeit gradually, better!
Sam & I are both on vacation...WOOHOO!!! We had so many things we wanted to do and so many people we wanted to see. But we have made the final conclusion that it would be best for us to just stay at home and...CLEAN!!! What better way to spend a vacation, right? lol NOT. But, it needs to be done, as we have lots of rearranging to do.
Not sure about the post office yet...I will find out my new schedule this week, so please be in prayer that I will manage to get assigned to a daytime slot! Sam will be starting 3rd shift very soon, and with my hatred of nighttime, it's likely to be a big challenge.
Steph's wedding is quickly approaching! I'm excited for her shower...I'm looking forward to seeing everyone...we're going to have so much fun! :)
Okay, well I hear my little bear growling so I'm going to sign off for now. Can't wait for church this morning...and I hope you can't, either!
Big Love,
Sarah
8.23.2009
Hi, guys. I know it's been awhile...please excuse my absence.
So, how ya doin'? I really hope this post finds you having a magnificent day. To be honest with you, my day started out pretty rough but has faded to a quiet, peaceful evening.
Some of you may be aware (and those of you who aren't, I'm filling you in) that my depression & panic attacks have recently worsened, and it's by no other method than the power of prayer and the mighty, healing hands of the awesome God I serve that I'm even able to compose my thoughts to type this.
Today was another day spent in bed with a migraine. And, along with the migraine medicine comes panic...not sure what the trigger is, but it's guaranteed to happen every time I take one of those pills. Once I woke up, I was in a full blown attack, and needed to see my uncle; I have particular people who can help me thru these horrible whirlwinds, and he is one of them. So Sam dropped me off before heading to church, and it was a good evening spent with family, of course, after my meltdown was over. Please keep me and my family in your prayers--we need you.
I'm seeing another psychotherapist now, along with my psychiatrist, both of whom I absolutely love. But, I must admit that sometimes it really breaks my heart to be in those offices as a client; I remember a time in the past when I was going to school to be on of them...not one of me. It's during those times that I just have to take a deep breath and realize that I'm very sick, and it's important for me to get better...for myself, for my husband, for my babies, and for my family. I have to remember that God has me in this situation for a very specific reason...and it's not really necessary for me to understand why at this point.
What lies ahead is unbeknownst to me. We're leaning towards the recommendation from my therapist to get a therapy dog...but once I apply, I will be on a 12-18 month waiting list. Maybe I'll be miraculously healed by then!
Anyways, I know this probably isn't my typical silly or uplifting post, but it's just how things are right now. Know that I love you all very much and appreciate your prayers and support.
Big Love,
Sarah
So, how ya doin'? I really hope this post finds you having a magnificent day. To be honest with you, my day started out pretty rough but has faded to a quiet, peaceful evening.
Some of you may be aware (and those of you who aren't, I'm filling you in) that my depression & panic attacks have recently worsened, and it's by no other method than the power of prayer and the mighty, healing hands of the awesome God I serve that I'm even able to compose my thoughts to type this.
Today was another day spent in bed with a migraine. And, along with the migraine medicine comes panic...not sure what the trigger is, but it's guaranteed to happen every time I take one of those pills. Once I woke up, I was in a full blown attack, and needed to see my uncle; I have particular people who can help me thru these horrible whirlwinds, and he is one of them. So Sam dropped me off before heading to church, and it was a good evening spent with family, of course, after my meltdown was over. Please keep me and my family in your prayers--we need you.
I'm seeing another psychotherapist now, along with my psychiatrist, both of whom I absolutely love. But, I must admit that sometimes it really breaks my heart to be in those offices as a client; I remember a time in the past when I was going to school to be on of them...not one of me. It's during those times that I just have to take a deep breath and realize that I'm very sick, and it's important for me to get better...for myself, for my husband, for my babies, and for my family. I have to remember that God has me in this situation for a very specific reason...and it's not really necessary for me to understand why at this point.
What lies ahead is unbeknownst to me. We're leaning towards the recommendation from my therapist to get a therapy dog...but once I apply, I will be on a 12-18 month waiting list. Maybe I'll be miraculously healed by then!
Anyways, I know this probably isn't my typical silly or uplifting post, but it's just how things are right now. Know that I love you all very much and appreciate your prayers and support.
Big Love,
Sarah
8.06.2009
Thankful Thursday
Not sure why I'm putting up such a fight with my anxiety this week...but it's taking its toll on me, that's for sure.
And it's not just me--the ripples touch everyone around me; and that makes me even more sad to see those around me dealing with my problem.
Today I'm thankful for pictures and cherished memories.
Hangin' on to Jesus 'cause I'm shakin' like a leaf,
Sarah
8.05.2009
Okay, gang-
Get a refill, this one's--waitaminit. Let me get the wavy chip off the keyboard where I dropped it. There's some passion in this one and it's hard to sit still. Here- I just brewed a pot of med-dark roast. Slide your mug on over here.
:)
It's just an ugly, regular mug that probably got picked up in a garage sale. It started out in a set, but time passed. Black isn't stylish any more; nobody wants black. And white? Oh, right: "Pure, clean, pristine, sparkly, who-do-you-think-YOU-are". It doesn't belong with all the snazzy, popular bright-colored ones. With logos. Brand names. The odd, ugly mug doesn't belong. Just ask the others; they'll tell you and everybody else.
The mug's story doesn't matter because the snazzy, regular, popular ones aren't interested. They've already made up their own and are busily assuring eveything else in the cupboard is hearing it. The ugly mug's real one only has a single use: ammo for the blabbing of the rest up in the cupboard.
I have one comment regarding that ugly, black mug.
It holds just as much great joe as any of the others and it loves refills.
"Whew! You were on a rant with that'n. Glad you've got that outta your system; it was getting a little close to meddling and you did promise that your articles would always lift, encourage, edify and challenge."
Right. I do a lot of the first three. Pay attention to the fourth. Not done here. Now comes this week's challenge.
Lakota Sioux warriors handmade their own hunting and warbows from seasoned ash wood. There's two ways to get seasoned ash wood: the easiest is to find a nice, well-shaped ash tree, cut it down and wait 5 years or more for it to dry. But the Lakota senior warriors were always watching for a rare mature ash tree that had been struck by lightning. When lightning hits an ash tree - any tree - it's instantly dried and cured by the jaw-dropping energy of the lightning. Any bows made from that tree would be way stronger.
Trees like this are hard to find, but the Sioux warriors treasured lightning-dried ash bows. Why? They'd taken the worst that the elements could put on them and survived - and weathering the worst makes anything tougher and stronger.
Think of it this way. Here's you bopping down the avenue, brand new threads from Burlington Coat Factory on board, Tommy Bahama shades in place, scoping out the '09 Challenger tooling past. Next blink here's you, smoldering and stinking mess, soles of your Asics melted in a puddle and you embarrassingly threadbare, tendrils of noxious smoke curling upward as the singular remaining clue that you were a second ago fully clothed and sort of in your right mind.
See, lightning can travel at speeds up to 130 THOUSAND mph, and up to 54 THOUSAND degrees F. There's no getting ready for a lightning strike, is what I'm trying to tell you. What happens, happens and you just deal with the effects.
From my little mug lesson, you might have an idea where this is going. But hang with me. There's a reason I have not one, but TWO stories. Like Tennessee Ernie used to sing, "If the right one don't getcha, well, the left one will..."
You can't tell from looking what kind of strikes have happened in another's life, any more than they can tell that about yours. That's really the whole point, but let me belabor it a bit. It's reasonable to think that because of significant lightning strikes in one's own life there would be a large margin of charity in his dealings with others. Experience seems to indicate to the contrary.
Does God really need to dunk a person, say, weekly in a major lightning strike to get them to lighten up on others whose lives bear the marks of their own? You know what it feels like, don't you? Any kind of strike (Sudden Traumatic Reality Indicating Kinetic Effort) in one's life gets immediate attention.
You can't see all the effects of lightning strikes in others' lives, but you can tell they've happened - just like you can tell a lightning-struck ash tree. Sooty, blown-to-ugly and blast-blackened. Broken stumps where once was beauty. Not pretty, just like that ugly old black coffee mug.
But to the discerning, there's just as much value in the gnarled, split blackened parts of another's life as there is to Lakota warriors in a lightning-struck ash tree. That's why some others try to mimic the look of ugliness without having the experience to back it up. Remember all those 'testimony' services in all those churches? Often sounded like a contest to see who had the scrungiest life. Nunh. That ain't victory, folks.
Nobody in their right mind celebrates the lightning strikes of life. What we celebrate - or ought to - is the strength, toughness and resolve - and healing - that arose within following the smoking, putrid aftermath.
Can you do that? That's the challenge, friend. Take a good look around you; there are some lives within your sphere of influence who show the unmistakable signs of some of life's sudden, fiery strikes. You can either appreciate, celebrate and encourage them - or you can join the snazzy cups with logos on 'em and put the ugly ones down, disappointing and maybe discouraging them from letting God do more wonderful stuff in their lives.
You can help them on their way or you can get in their way, because as in everything you have a choice.
One or two of you might be feeling a little like the ugly mug. You've had your share of the old 130,000-mph, 54,000-degree wake-ups and you're growing through them. And there're others who ought to know better who're making fun of you, snickering and talking.
I have one thing to say about that.
When Lakota warriors wanted a superior bow, they went looking for an ugly, burned lightning-struck tree; when God wants a superior servant, He goes looking for men and women who've taken the worst life could throw at them, wiped away the blood and tears, and through faith are the tougher and stronger for it.
"Um, God? Suddenly I'm not so sure I want to be up in the cupboard. Just leave me down here on the counter where folks can take a nourishing, comforting drink now and then. And black's just fine. You say in the back of The Book that eventually all of us who're following you will ALL wear beautiful, shining white. So whatever color, shape and style You want for me is fine. I'd rather be used than looked at, and when they look at me, I want 'em to see You. Oh--and, God? Thanks for the strikes; they're not fun, but I'm tougher and more seasoned because of 'em. You make out of me whatever You can use to help in the lives of others."
Amen.
Loving you,
Dan
Thanks to Dan for being a guest on my blog, although I'm sure he isn't even aware I posted this email...
I just wanted to share this with all of you today. I hope it speaks to you as much as it spoke to me. I truly appreciate Dan's effort to lift, encourage, edify, and challenge. What if ALL of us made an effort to do that every single day?!
Big Love,
Sarah
Get a refill, this one's--waitaminit. Let me get the wavy chip off the keyboard where I dropped it. There's some passion in this one and it's hard to sit still. Here- I just brewed a pot of med-dark roast. Slide your mug on over here.
:)
It's just an ugly, regular mug that probably got picked up in a garage sale. It started out in a set, but time passed. Black isn't stylish any more; nobody wants black. And white? Oh, right: "Pure, clean, pristine, sparkly, who-do-you-think-YOU-are". It doesn't belong with all the snazzy, popular bright-colored ones. With logos. Brand names. The odd, ugly mug doesn't belong. Just ask the others; they'll tell you and everybody else.
The mug's story doesn't matter because the snazzy, regular, popular ones aren't interested. They've already made up their own and are busily assuring eveything else in the cupboard is hearing it. The ugly mug's real one only has a single use: ammo for the blabbing of the rest up in the cupboard.
I have one comment regarding that ugly, black mug.
It holds just as much great joe as any of the others and it loves refills.
"Whew! You were on a rant with that'n. Glad you've got that outta your system; it was getting a little close to meddling and you did promise that your articles would always lift, encourage, edify and challenge."
Right. I do a lot of the first three. Pay attention to the fourth. Not done here. Now comes this week's challenge.
Lakota Sioux warriors handmade their own hunting and warbows from seasoned ash wood. There's two ways to get seasoned ash wood: the easiest is to find a nice, well-shaped ash tree, cut it down and wait 5 years or more for it to dry. But the Lakota senior warriors were always watching for a rare mature ash tree that had been struck by lightning. When lightning hits an ash tree - any tree - it's instantly dried and cured by the jaw-dropping energy of the lightning. Any bows made from that tree would be way stronger.
Trees like this are hard to find, but the Sioux warriors treasured lightning-dried ash bows. Why? They'd taken the worst that the elements could put on them and survived - and weathering the worst makes anything tougher and stronger.
Think of it this way. Here's you bopping down the avenue, brand new threads from Burlington Coat Factory on board, Tommy Bahama shades in place, scoping out the '09 Challenger tooling past. Next blink here's you, smoldering and stinking mess, soles of your Asics melted in a puddle and you embarrassingly threadbare, tendrils of noxious smoke curling upward as the singular remaining clue that you were a second ago fully clothed and sort of in your right mind.
See, lightning can travel at speeds up to 130 THOUSAND mph, and up to 54 THOUSAND degrees F. There's no getting ready for a lightning strike, is what I'm trying to tell you. What happens, happens and you just deal with the effects.
From my little mug lesson, you might have an idea where this is going. But hang with me. There's a reason I have not one, but TWO stories. Like Tennessee Ernie used to sing, "If the right one don't getcha, well, the left one will..."
You can't tell from looking what kind of strikes have happened in another's life, any more than they can tell that about yours. That's really the whole point, but let me belabor it a bit. It's reasonable to think that because of significant lightning strikes in one's own life there would be a large margin of charity in his dealings with others. Experience seems to indicate to the contrary.
Does God really need to dunk a person, say, weekly in a major lightning strike to get them to lighten up on others whose lives bear the marks of their own? You know what it feels like, don't you? Any kind of strike (Sudden Traumatic Reality Indicating Kinetic Effort) in one's life gets immediate attention.
You can't see all the effects of lightning strikes in others' lives, but you can tell they've happened - just like you can tell a lightning-struck ash tree. Sooty, blown-to-ugly and blast-blackened. Broken stumps where once was beauty. Not pretty, just like that ugly old black coffee mug.
But to the discerning, there's just as much value in the gnarled, split blackened parts of another's life as there is to Lakota warriors in a lightning-struck ash tree. That's why some others try to mimic the look of ugliness without having the experience to back it up. Remember all those 'testimony' services in all those churches? Often sounded like a contest to see who had the scrungiest life. Nunh. That ain't victory, folks.
Nobody in their right mind celebrates the lightning strikes of life. What we celebrate - or ought to - is the strength, toughness and resolve - and healing - that arose within following the smoking, putrid aftermath.
Can you do that? That's the challenge, friend. Take a good look around you; there are some lives within your sphere of influence who show the unmistakable signs of some of life's sudden, fiery strikes. You can either appreciate, celebrate and encourage them - or you can join the snazzy cups with logos on 'em and put the ugly ones down, disappointing and maybe discouraging them from letting God do more wonderful stuff in their lives.
You can help them on their way or you can get in their way, because as in everything you have a choice.
One or two of you might be feeling a little like the ugly mug. You've had your share of the old 130,000-mph, 54,000-degree wake-ups and you're growing through them. And there're others who ought to know better who're making fun of you, snickering and talking.
I have one thing to say about that.
When Lakota warriors wanted a superior bow, they went looking for an ugly, burned lightning-struck tree; when God wants a superior servant, He goes looking for men and women who've taken the worst life could throw at them, wiped away the blood and tears, and through faith are the tougher and stronger for it.
"Um, God? Suddenly I'm not so sure I want to be up in the cupboard. Just leave me down here on the counter where folks can take a nourishing, comforting drink now and then. And black's just fine. You say in the back of The Book that eventually all of us who're following you will ALL wear beautiful, shining white. So whatever color, shape and style You want for me is fine. I'd rather be used than looked at, and when they look at me, I want 'em to see You. Oh--and, God? Thanks for the strikes; they're not fun, but I'm tougher and more seasoned because of 'em. You make out of me whatever You can use to help in the lives of others."
Amen.
Loving you,
Dan
Thanks to Dan for being a guest on my blog, although I'm sure he isn't even aware I posted this email...
I just wanted to share this with all of you today. I hope it speaks to you as much as it spoke to me. I truly appreciate Dan's effort to lift, encourage, edify, and challenge. What if ALL of us made an effort to do that every single day?!
Big Love,
Sarah
8.02.2009
Thankful Thursday on Sunday
I'm thankful for healing, today. Healing of the mind, healing of the body, and healing of the soul.
My mind has been completely flooded with stress the past week...millions of things needing to be done, millions of things needing to be paid, millions of things needing to be put away, millions of thoughts needing to be driven out of my head.
I'm so thankful that my Jesus can heal...any time, any place. Please keep all of us in your prayers this week, as I've been struggling with my anxiety issues, as well as with some weird sore throat/coughing thing, Sam had to say goodbye to his girls for another year, and Maya and Gabriel are adjusting back into the 'normal' groove at home.
Big Love,
Sarah
My mind has been completely flooded with stress the past week...millions of things needing to be done, millions of things needing to be paid, millions of things needing to be put away, millions of thoughts needing to be driven out of my head.
I'm so thankful that my Jesus can heal...any time, any place. Please keep all of us in your prayers this week, as I've been struggling with my anxiety issues, as well as with some weird sore throat/coughing thing, Sam had to say goodbye to his girls for another year, and Maya and Gabriel are adjusting back into the 'normal' groove at home.
Big Love,
Sarah
7.17.2009
Time for a Fun Post
If you saw ME riding in the back of a police car, what would you guess I had been arrested for?
I want AT LEAST 10 comments.
Sarah
I want AT LEAST 10 comments.
Sarah
7.16.2009
Thankful Thursday
Hey, gang!
Today I'm thankful for my step-babies, Claudia Nicole and Camile Ann.
What a trying, difficult, testing, uneasy, yet learning, fun, loving, and bonding experience this has been for all of us! From their "home" in Pennsylvania to a new environment in Kansas; from no dad to 'Daddy's home!!!!'; from their mommy to 'our-step-mom-not-our-real-mom, Sarah'; from a 3-year-old brother to Maya and Gabriel; from lenient rules to, 'Did you wash your hands? Did you pick up your room? Are your clothes folded and put away?'...
these girls have faced a LOT in their short, 8 years of life...and they do a tremendous job of adapting to whatever is thrown their way.
I'm thankful that when I get a little rough, as I tend to do quite often, God gently taps me on the shoulder and reminds me that this is my once-a-year opportunity to pour out His love on these girls, to really love them and care for them and be a positive example for them.
Please pray for all of us and the remaining 2 weeks that we have left with the girls. We are finally all adjusted to the change and 'gelling' together, which is usually how it happens just in time to start getting bags packed to take them back home. I'm looking forward to these next couple of weeks and the chance to be the best stepmama I can be.
Big Love,
Sarah
Today I'm thankful for my step-babies, Claudia Nicole and Camile Ann.
What a trying, difficult, testing, uneasy, yet learning, fun, loving, and bonding experience this has been for all of us! From their "home" in Pennsylvania to a new environment in Kansas; from no dad to 'Daddy's home!!!!'; from their mommy to 'our-step-mom-not-our-real-mom, Sarah'; from a 3-year-old brother to Maya and Gabriel; from lenient rules to, 'Did you wash your hands? Did you pick up your room? Are your clothes folded and put away?'...
these girls have faced a LOT in their short, 8 years of life...and they do a tremendous job of adapting to whatever is thrown their way.
I'm thankful that when I get a little rough, as I tend to do quite often, God gently taps me on the shoulder and reminds me that this is my once-a-year opportunity to pour out His love on these girls, to really love them and care for them and be a positive example for them.
Please pray for all of us and the remaining 2 weeks that we have left with the girls. We are finally all adjusted to the change and 'gelling' together, which is usually how it happens just in time to start getting bags packed to take them back home. I'm looking forward to these next couple of weeks and the chance to be the best stepmama I can be.
Big Love,
Sarah
7.15.2009
Kate Needs a Miracle
I'm sure many of you remember me speaking of Kyrie, my friend's precious little girl who lost a strong battle to pediatric brain cancer. (If you don't recall any of this and are interested in reading Kyrie's blog, just visit www.kyriethome.blogspot.com)
Right now another precious little girl is fighting the same fight that Kyrie experienced. She needs your prayers. Her mom and dad need your prayers. They are weak, and they need my prayers and your prayers to carry them through this extremely painful time in their lives. Please don't just shrug this off as 'just another sick kid.' Please take time to look at her pictures and put yourself in her shoes, in her mom's shoes, in her dad's shoes, in the dr.'s shoes, in her siblings and grandparents and extended family's shoes...
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mcraekate/journal
Praying for another miracle,
Sarah
Right now another precious little girl is fighting the same fight that Kyrie experienced. She needs your prayers. Her mom and dad need your prayers. They are weak, and they need my prayers and your prayers to carry them through this extremely painful time in their lives. Please don't just shrug this off as 'just another sick kid.' Please take time to look at her pictures and put yourself in her shoes, in her mom's shoes, in her dad's shoes, in the dr.'s shoes, in her siblings and grandparents and extended family's shoes...
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mcraekate/journal
Praying for another miracle,
Sarah
7.10.2009
A Li'l Stressed :)
Have you ever been in a financial tough spot? I'm not talking, "dang, I'm a little low on cash so we better go to a matinee instead of the evening show." And, I'm not talking, "Man, I had to pay rent with this check so I can't go eat my usual Friday night chicken quesadillas!"
I'm speaking of literally being in a TOUGH SPOT...like...holy cow, I have enough to pay my tithe, and...that's it. No rent. No groceries. No electric bill. No phone bill. No prescriptions. No gas. No thing. Nothing. Period. Zilch. Nada.
One of my friends invited me to go swimming this week, and I said, "wow, thanks for the invite. I'd really love to go, but I have 4 kids, and I'm broke until payday." Her comment: "Sarah, geez, it's ONLY 50 cents!" lol some people can't even fathom what it really means to be 'broke.' I don't use the term unless it's literal.
So I've waited and waited and waited all week long for payday to get here...and now, I'm even more stressed out than before it got here!
All that to say this: I'm so very thankful and appreciative that I can just give all I have to God and trust in Him to take care of all the rest. All the bills, all the medicine, the food...whatever...it's all in His hands. Tonight, I frantically asked Sam, "what the heck are we going to do?!?!?!?!?!" He shrugged his shoulders and simply stated, "that's not for us to worry about. We'll pay tithe and trust God to take care of us these next 2 weeks." Wow. What a concept. Thanks, Sam.
As a result, I'm looking for either another part-time job, or a full-time job to help get our heads back above the water. Please be in prayer for our financial situation over these next few weeks; things are always tight during this month with the girls, especially with all the traveling involved.
God, thanks so much for Your faithfulness and restoration. Thanks for being my caretaker and protector. May I never forget who I belong to and who I serve.
Big Love,
Sarah
I'm speaking of literally being in a TOUGH SPOT...like...holy cow, I have enough to pay my tithe, and...that's it. No rent. No groceries. No electric bill. No phone bill. No prescriptions. No gas. No thing. Nothing. Period. Zilch. Nada.
One of my friends invited me to go swimming this week, and I said, "wow, thanks for the invite. I'd really love to go, but I have 4 kids, and I'm broke until payday." Her comment: "Sarah, geez, it's ONLY 50 cents!" lol some people can't even fathom what it really means to be 'broke.' I don't use the term unless it's literal.
So I've waited and waited and waited all week long for payday to get here...and now, I'm even more stressed out than before it got here!
All that to say this: I'm so very thankful and appreciative that I can just give all I have to God and trust in Him to take care of all the rest. All the bills, all the medicine, the food...whatever...it's all in His hands. Tonight, I frantically asked Sam, "what the heck are we going to do?!?!?!?!?!" He shrugged his shoulders and simply stated, "that's not for us to worry about. We'll pay tithe and trust God to take care of us these next 2 weeks." Wow. What a concept. Thanks, Sam.
As a result, I'm looking for either another part-time job, or a full-time job to help get our heads back above the water. Please be in prayer for our financial situation over these next few weeks; things are always tight during this month with the girls, especially with all the traveling involved.
God, thanks so much for Your faithfulness and restoration. Thanks for being my caretaker and protector. May I never forget who I belong to and who I serve.
Big Love,
Sarah
7.07.2009
Pillow Prayer
Those of you closest to me know that I have a difficult time facing nighttime. Ya know that little 7-year-old kid who dreads bedtime, and does everything he can possibly think of to keep from just settling in and being still?...I need a drink...I need to pee...I'm hot...I'm cold...I think I just heard something...I think I left a light on...I need a bedtime story...
well, that's SO me! :) I HATE bedtime. All day long, I dread going to sleep. I find myself wrestling with a million things, and quite honestly, it totally just wears me out until I finally don't have any other choice but to close my eyes and pass out.
Dominic has this sweet little prayer that he says every night when he goes to bed...some day I'll record him saying it and post it as an audioblog. And, although it's not the same one, I have a bedtime prayer, too! I found a dusty book on my shelf, and it's become my new best friend at bedtime. One of the prayers in this book really helped me realize that nighttime doesn't have to be such a struggle for me. It may not mean a thing to you, but I'd like to share it, anyway.
"Holy Guard of the Night Watch,
I relinquish myself to Your care. The day, crowded with demands, has wilted my strength. So, with gratitude, I lay my head upon my pillow.
Quiet my mind. Smooth from my brow the wrinkles that were knit by the concerns of the day.
Deliver me from rehashing that which, for now, cannot be altered. May Your comforting Spirit surround me with a sense of safety. In Your high intentions for me I find blessed relief.
God, who holds my yesterdays and who patrols my tomorrows, I trust in You tonight.
Amen."
Sweet Dreams,
Sarah
well, that's SO me! :) I HATE bedtime. All day long, I dread going to sleep. I find myself wrestling with a million things, and quite honestly, it totally just wears me out until I finally don't have any other choice but to close my eyes and pass out.
Dominic has this sweet little prayer that he says every night when he goes to bed...some day I'll record him saying it and post it as an audioblog. And, although it's not the same one, I have a bedtime prayer, too! I found a dusty book on my shelf, and it's become my new best friend at bedtime. One of the prayers in this book really helped me realize that nighttime doesn't have to be such a struggle for me. It may not mean a thing to you, but I'd like to share it, anyway.
"Holy Guard of the Night Watch,
I relinquish myself to Your care. The day, crowded with demands, has wilted my strength. So, with gratitude, I lay my head upon my pillow.
Quiet my mind. Smooth from my brow the wrinkles that were knit by the concerns of the day.
Deliver me from rehashing that which, for now, cannot be altered. May Your comforting Spirit surround me with a sense of safety. In Your high intentions for me I find blessed relief.
God, who holds my yesterdays and who patrols my tomorrows, I trust in You tonight.
Amen."
Sweet Dreams,
Sarah
7.06.2009
Being 7 Again
Hey, everyone! Just to shorten things up a bit...the trip to Indiana was long and boring, but the kids did great. Now we're one, big, happy family with Claudia and Camile home with us. Maya is on Cloud 9, learning new things every day from her big sisters, and Gabriel is...just Gabriel. :)
So I haven't been to a concert in a really long time, and this weekend, I went to two, both of which were tons of fun. Last night, Sam and I took the kids to the Newton festival, and thanks to one of Sam's friends who bought all of us festival buttons, we had an opportunity to see some of our favorite Christian bands, including Building 429, Decypher Down, and Superchick. (Thanks so much, Brian!!!)
Now, Friday night was a little different. Thanks to another friend of Sam's, I got free tix to see my all-time favorite boy band, NKOTB! When I heard they were coming to Wichita, I thought it was a little comical. But then I was like, "wait a minute...that was the very first concert my sister and I ever went to...how cool would it be to go with her again, now that we're 20 years older?!?!?!" So I asked Steph if she wanted to go with me, and after some giggles and a tiny hint of persuasion, she agreed. Unfortunately, she was sick Friday, so I ended up asking my cousin, Lita, to go with me.
We got there and laughed at the crowd...you could definitely tell who the 'older' fans were versus the younger, new fans. The opening acts were really awesome, first being the Jabbawockeez (I called 'em the Tonkawonkies lol), and second being Jesse McCartney. I was impressed by both.
And then the REAL show began. I completely felt like I was in 3rd grade again, especially when I heard, "Please don't go girrrrrrl....you would ruin my whole world..." lol
So pretty much the entire time Lita and I just kinda laughed back and forth with each other as we recognized each song...UNTIL...
I saw Donny (yes, I still know all their names lol) running thru the crowd touching everyone's hands...followed by Jordan, Danny, Jon, and lastly, Joe, who was surrounded by about 4 security guards. Little did I realize that right in front of where Lita and I were sitting, was a little mini-stage...and let me just say, at that point, I came to my feet, and my jaw dropped to the floor. The only thing missing was my high-pitched, little-girl scream, but I think I was so in shock to be that close that nothing would come out lol...it was so stinkin' awesome.
AND...I caught a beach ball they were throwin out to the audience, so I left with a free souvenir! :) Couldn't ask for anything better. I came home and was still flying high, and I cooled off Saturday morning by watching the old Step by Step VHS tape lol.
So all u girls who didn't go...u seriously missed it. Fifty years old, and they still got the right stuff! ;)
Peace,
Sarah
So I haven't been to a concert in a really long time, and this weekend, I went to two, both of which were tons of fun. Last night, Sam and I took the kids to the Newton festival, and thanks to one of Sam's friends who bought all of us festival buttons, we had an opportunity to see some of our favorite Christian bands, including Building 429, Decypher Down, and Superchick. (Thanks so much, Brian!!!)
Now, Friday night was a little different. Thanks to another friend of Sam's, I got free tix to see my all-time favorite boy band, NKOTB! When I heard they were coming to Wichita, I thought it was a little comical. But then I was like, "wait a minute...that was the very first concert my sister and I ever went to...how cool would it be to go with her again, now that we're 20 years older?!?!?!" So I asked Steph if she wanted to go with me, and after some giggles and a tiny hint of persuasion, she agreed. Unfortunately, she was sick Friday, so I ended up asking my cousin, Lita, to go with me.
We got there and laughed at the crowd...you could definitely tell who the 'older' fans were versus the younger, new fans. The opening acts were really awesome, first being the Jabbawockeez (I called 'em the Tonkawonkies lol), and second being Jesse McCartney. I was impressed by both.
And then the REAL show began. I completely felt like I was in 3rd grade again, especially when I heard, "Please don't go girrrrrrl....you would ruin my whole world..." lol
So pretty much the entire time Lita and I just kinda laughed back and forth with each other as we recognized each song...UNTIL...
I saw Donny (yes, I still know all their names lol) running thru the crowd touching everyone's hands...followed by Jordan, Danny, Jon, and lastly, Joe, who was surrounded by about 4 security guards. Little did I realize that right in front of where Lita and I were sitting, was a little mini-stage...and let me just say, at that point, I came to my feet, and my jaw dropped to the floor. The only thing missing was my high-pitched, little-girl scream, but I think I was so in shock to be that close that nothing would come out lol...it was so stinkin' awesome.
AND...I caught a beach ball they were throwin out to the audience, so I left with a free souvenir! :) Couldn't ask for anything better. I came home and was still flying high, and I cooled off Saturday morning by watching the old Step by Step VHS tape lol.
So all u girls who didn't go...u seriously missed it. Fifty years old, and they still got the right stuff! ;)
Peace,
Sarah
6.23.2009
Absolute Craziness
I feel like I'm going 100 miles an hour in 100 different directions.
Sorry for the lack of posting, lately. I know that can be irritating for those who check in on a regular basis, only to find the same post about Uncle Brad. :) lol
I have so many things I've intended on posting about...GGV's 89th birthday...my awesome dad...new pics...key word='intended.' lol Sam always tells me, "Sarah, the pathway to hell is paved with good intentions." yikes.
...but there's just not enough time in a day!
So for right now, I'll sign off with the most recently EXCITING announcement in our family...my sister is gettin' hitched!! WOOHOO!!! Can't wait for the big day, October 3, 2009!
Congrats, Steph & Mike! Love you.
to the rest of you...I probably won't be posting again until Sunday or so...Indiana trip is coming up on Friday, and I will then have 4 physical little bodies running around me every day! :)
Big Love,
Sarah
Sorry for the lack of posting, lately. I know that can be irritating for those who check in on a regular basis, only to find the same post about Uncle Brad. :) lol
I have so many things I've intended on posting about...GGV's 89th birthday...my awesome dad...new pics...key word='intended.' lol Sam always tells me, "Sarah, the pathway to hell is paved with good intentions." yikes.
...but there's just not enough time in a day!
So for right now, I'll sign off with the most recently EXCITING announcement in our family...my sister is gettin' hitched!! WOOHOO!!! Can't wait for the big day, October 3, 2009!
Congrats, Steph & Mike! Love you.
to the rest of you...I probably won't be posting again until Sunday or so...Indiana trip is coming up on Friday, and I will then have 4 physical little bodies running around me every day! :)
Big Love,
Sarah
6.17.2009
Uncle Brad
Just a short post here to say happy birthday to my uncle on my dad's side, Brad. He's not one to really boast about his life accomplishments...he slips in to family gatherings and slips out just as quickly...but his adventurous undertakings aren't to go unnoticed. From a drum major to a seasick seaman to a ballroom dancer to a university instructor to a squirrel lifesaver to a crazy uncle...he is to be commended on an audacious, well-lived 60+ years!
Happy Birthday, Brad!
Big Love,
Sarah
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