I have neglected this blog! Not on purpose. Life has just been busy. The last time I posted it was about Unschooling. I would like to update you on that!
Since we have started school we have moved to the DFW area. We are now living with my parents. I do not have as much control over when the TV is on or off anymore and because we are sharing a living space our day looks a lot different than what I had first hoped. The good news? We have adjusted well!
Our day starts with the kids playing outside, or legos, or some other fun playtime. At this time I wake up! The good thing about having grandparents in the house is that I can sleep in a bit! I wake up, check email, facebook and blogs. We start school about 9 am.
We always start with Bible (Sonlight). The kids and I enjoy memorizing Scripture, praying and talking about the story or lesson. This Sonlight curriculum has a lot of read-alouds! So I have incorporated drawing or painting of the Bible lesson into our morning while I read the, sometimes endless, pages.
Then we go on to History, Geography (sonlight), and then science. We started the year with Apologia but I quickly realized that this was not a good fit for our family. So we are switching (as of January) to unit studies. We just read a fun story "Owls in the Family" and the kids wanted to learn more about owls so we are working on a lapbook about owls.
Then it is time for individual work. Ellie is still very dependent on me for most of her work. So Jackson usually starts with math. I only help when it is a new concept or if he is confused. This leaves me time to work with Ellie. She is really not getting math. I noticed recently that she is relying on me to tell her the answers. So we have started over. We are taking it very slowly. Today was the first day I saw the light bulb turn on. She is starting to understand the concept of adding. We will most likely do Kindergarten math again later in the semester. For now we are sticking with some little books that are meant to reinforce addition and other basic concepts.
I also like to take this time to help Charlotte. She only gives me about 10 minutes max! She loves to play Sound-o Bingo, which is bingo with only letters and their sounds. She also loves playing cards. Ellie joins in too.
Ellie reads to me and works on other LA and is usually done well before lunch. Then she is off to play with her sister!
Jackson and I work on ELA together and then he is working on an additional geography program that is based on the US.
That is it! Oh, we have just started Health too. Like just started today! So I don't know how that will go yet,
The unschooling has not really happened like I wanted but I feel a lot less pressure this year than I have in years past. We have had a lot of big life changes since October including: a move, Troy out of work for 2 months, 2 deaths, and me having to be the full time caregiver for my father. I have learned to let a lot of things go. My kids are benefiting from that.
All-in-all, it has been a good year!
Showing posts with label life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label life. Show all posts
Friday, January 4, 2013
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Just a little update!
Wow! I have been gone a while! I am sorry about that. It is not on purpose. I just never can seem to find the time to post something that I think you all want to really read!!
So what is going on here? I am working and loving it. It has been an adjustment to say the least but the kids and are getting the hang of it. I had a hysterectomy last week. I am recovering well. I am hoping to go back to work next week.
Jackson is doing well. We are struggling with some heart issues. He is at an age where he obsesses over things. We are trying to teach him about false gods. About allowing something to consume your mind so much that your focus is taken off of the Lord. This is something that both Troy and I struggle with too. We are not perfect but if we were then what would be the point?!
Ellie is still Ellie. She is excelling in her schoolwork and is reading really well. I am so proud of her. She is super sensitive and I am still working on my own responses to her. I don't get her sometimes. Remembering that this a gift that God has given her helps me to be more compassionate with her. She loves going to work with me. She LOVES art. She loves her teachers.
Char is Char! She is a mess. She is super bright and witty. Because of this I am constantly laughing at her antics. She is a mess and we love her for it! Her outfit of choice is Minnie Mouse pajamas and to be honest I think that is a GREAT choice!
Troy is employed but looking for a new job. He has an interview today! Yay! We are praying it is better pay and a place where he is appreciated. We want him to have a fun job!
So what is going on here? I am working and loving it. It has been an adjustment to say the least but the kids and are getting the hang of it. I had a hysterectomy last week. I am recovering well. I am hoping to go back to work next week.
Jackson is doing well. We are struggling with some heart issues. He is at an age where he obsesses over things. We are trying to teach him about false gods. About allowing something to consume your mind so much that your focus is taken off of the Lord. This is something that both Troy and I struggle with too. We are not perfect but if we were then what would be the point?!
Ellie is still Ellie. She is excelling in her schoolwork and is reading really well. I am so proud of her. She is super sensitive and I am still working on my own responses to her. I don't get her sometimes. Remembering that this a gift that God has given her helps me to be more compassionate with her. She loves going to work with me. She LOVES art. She loves her teachers.
Char is Char! She is a mess. She is super bright and witty. Because of this I am constantly laughing at her antics. She is a mess and we love her for it! Her outfit of choice is Minnie Mouse pajamas and to be honest I think that is a GREAT choice!
Troy is employed but looking for a new job. He has an interview today! Yay! We are praying it is better pay and a place where he is appreciated. We want him to have a fun job!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
True Greatness
This summer I did a book study on Raising Your Kids for True Greatness by Tim Kimmel. A great book for all parents, especially Christian ones! Anyway today, Jackson, out of nowhere brought the book to me. He said, "Mom. I want you to read this book." I smiled and told him that I had. He then wanted to know if Troy had. I asked why and he responded "Because I want to do good things with my life." That is exactly what this book is all about. I was so proud of my sweet boy when he said that. He is an amazing kid. And my hope is that we can raise him up for TRUE greatness.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Busy with School!
The kids and I have been busy with school! We have been going through the motions and it has been pretty good...for the most part! We still struggle with attitudes and that can be a bit challenging, especially when I am not in the mood.
Jackson finished an ETC book last week. It felt like it took forever (because it did) but he finished. I asked if he wanted me to take a picture and he said "No!". Oh well. We have also taken a break from Horizon's Math. I could tell that he was getting too frustrated with it and for the last 3 weeks we have been only working on fast facts on the computer. He really likes doing it and it takes less than 5 minutes sometimes. There are parts of me that think he should be doing more but then the laid back, just let him work at his own pace cause this is why we chose to homeschool, part of me says that 5 minutes of math is fine if he is learning. He finished a chapter book that was part of the Hooked on Phonics program we are using. He really enjoyed the story line and I could tell he was really proud of himself when he finished.
Ellie is still trucking away at ETC. We will be starting SSRW before Thanksgiving I am sure. Part of me wonders if I should wait until after the new year. I probably won't because she is so willing to learn right now. We are still working on number recognition and some addition. She is doing well with it.
Charlotte is craving some school time. I have started working with colors and shapes with her. We are also learning "C" for Charlotte. Last week we talked about circles, purple and the number 8 by making a spider. She really liked it. I will have to take a picture of the project.
Overall we have been doing lots of fun things. There have been times I thought about taking pictures but then didn't because I was enjoying my time with the kids.
Jackson finished an ETC book last week. It felt like it took forever (because it did) but he finished. I asked if he wanted me to take a picture and he said "No!". Oh well. We have also taken a break from Horizon's Math. I could tell that he was getting too frustrated with it and for the last 3 weeks we have been only working on fast facts on the computer. He really likes doing it and it takes less than 5 minutes sometimes. There are parts of me that think he should be doing more but then the laid back, just let him work at his own pace cause this is why we chose to homeschool, part of me says that 5 minutes of math is fine if he is learning. He finished a chapter book that was part of the Hooked on Phonics program we are using. He really enjoyed the story line and I could tell he was really proud of himself when he finished.
Ellie is still trucking away at ETC. We will be starting SSRW before Thanksgiving I am sure. Part of me wonders if I should wait until after the new year. I probably won't because she is so willing to learn right now. We are still working on number recognition and some addition. She is doing well with it.
Charlotte is craving some school time. I have started working with colors and shapes with her. We are also learning "C" for Charlotte. Last week we talked about circles, purple and the number 8 by making a spider. She really liked it. I will have to take a picture of the project.
Overall we have been doing lots of fun things. There have been times I thought about taking pictures but then didn't because I was enjoying my time with the kids.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Day 3
Just want to let you know that as I type this post my 3 year old is having one of the biggest meltdowns I have ever seen! I just had to scream at her to get her to stay in her room. Motherhood.
I wanted to post some pictures of what we have been doing. It is only day 3 but the kids are really enjoying our new schedule. So here it goes.
In Friends and Heroes, we are learning about keeping a diary/journal. We researched Samuel Pepys and read some entries of his. Then Jackson had to pretend he was in a loft of a barn like Macky from F&H. He was to wrap up in his blanket and write about his adventures that day. The lesson suggested that we do it by candle light but I used my own discretion. This was out of Jackson's comfort zone. He is still not a very good speller and lacks confidence. But after writing a bit I caught him writing notes by himself. I LOVE when he realizes he CAN do something!
Charlotte received excellent presents for her birthday! One of them was this sorting activity. She still doesn't quite understand patterns but she does understand different colors and sizes. She really enjoyed this activity today.
Ellie is really doing very well with ETC!
We also played UNO Moo! The kids really like this game! Thank you Mrs. Mindy!
Look who is learning how learning how to ride a bike! Go Ellie T!
I wanted to post some pictures of what we have been doing. It is only day 3 but the kids are really enjoying our new schedule. So here it goes.
Look who is learning how learning how to ride a bike! Go Ellie T!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Isn't that the way it goes
Right after I hit the "publish post" button my son decided he would slow down so much that he would not finish school. Luckily this is not my first rodeo and I stuck with it. He finally finished a good 3 hours later! It was a good day otherwise.
Today he is struggling again. I am trying to be patient. We all struggle at times. It just looks different to each and every one of us. So what do you all struggle with at home, if you homeschool? And if you don't, what does your child struggle with at school?
Today he is struggling again. I am trying to be patient. We all struggle at times. It just looks different to each and every one of us. So what do you all struggle with at home, if you homeschool? And if you don't, what does your child struggle with at school?
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Following Through
Okay so I am just going to put it out there....most days we sit in front of the TV all day and do nothing. This has become a reality that I am ashamed of. I could blame it on the heat or not having a car, but in all actuality it is because it is so much easier to let the kids be occupied by the big box that makes noise! As you know we are schooling through the summer and the last two weeks have SUCKED! We have not gotten anything done.
Se la vi (is that how you spell it?).
So this week I decided we are going to start over. No more kicking myself or boo-hooing. We are going to start. The first day, Monday, we had 3 different visitors stop by. This put a wrench in my plans but I stuck with it and made the kids stick with it too. While I prepared dinner, Ellie sat at the island and did her ETC while Jackson sat at the table and worked on his math. Jackson did not finish until 9pm. He is a trooper!
*Before you get all judgmental on me for making my kid work into the night... let tell you that it took him about 6 hours to do 2 pages of work. He chose not to get it done! Today he finished a much larger amount of work in about 45 minutes!
Anyway. Today was much better. We started the day off without TV and the kids ate and played outside first thing. Really, we have to go out before 9 am to keep cool (or cooler!). After playing we started school. Ellie is always faster because she has less work. She finished with a great attitude and then worked on her chores. Jackson also had a great attitude and finished all subjects by 10:30!! Only an hour and 45 min! I was so proud! Char watched PBS. I know I just said no TV but she woke up on the wrong side of the bed and I didn't want to fight her while I was helping Ellie. And if I am following my lesson plans, 30 minutes of TV is allotted for Char! The kids ALL did had their chores done by 11 and we were able to go next door to play with our friends.
Anyway all that to say I am going to really try to follow through with the kids this year. It is so easy to stop doing our work when it gets hard or we get a better offer. I think it is a good lesson to teach them too! I am not worried about how they will turn out in the academically, I am more worried about how they will turn out spiritually. And following through is a lesson that needs to be learned!
Se la vi (is that how you spell it?).
So this week I decided we are going to start over. No more kicking myself or boo-hooing. We are going to start. The first day, Monday, we had 3 different visitors stop by. This put a wrench in my plans but I stuck with it and made the kids stick with it too. While I prepared dinner, Ellie sat at the island and did her ETC while Jackson sat at the table and worked on his math. Jackson did not finish until 9pm. He is a trooper!
*Before you get all judgmental on me for making my kid work into the night... let tell you that it took him about 6 hours to do 2 pages of work. He chose not to get it done! Today he finished a much larger amount of work in about 45 minutes!
Anyway. Today was much better. We started the day off without TV and the kids ate and played outside first thing. Really, we have to go out before 9 am to keep cool (or cooler!). After playing we started school. Ellie is always faster because she has less work. She finished with a great attitude and then worked on her chores. Jackson also had a great attitude and finished all subjects by 10:30!! Only an hour and 45 min! I was so proud! Char watched PBS. I know I just said no TV but she woke up on the wrong side of the bed and I didn't want to fight her while I was helping Ellie. And if I am following my lesson plans, 30 minutes of TV is allotted for Char! The kids ALL did had their chores done by 11 and we were able to go next door to play with our friends.
Anyway all that to say I am going to really try to follow through with the kids this year. It is so easy to stop doing our work when it gets hard or we get a better offer. I think it is a good lesson to teach them too! I am not worried about how they will turn out in the academically, I am more worried about how they will turn out spiritually. And following through is a lesson that needs to be learned!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
This isn't going to last forever
Char just came into the living room holding her dress up around her chest with a long strip of toilet paper in her hands. She looked at me with all seriousness and said, "I need you to wipe my hiner".
This made me think of her and how little she is and how big she is all at the same time. Not quite 3 she is talking like a big girl. She is completely potty trained and she doesn't even tell me when she has to go anymore (hence the reason she has to come find me to help her!). She is "writing" her letters and shapes, she only knows how to make a circle. And she loves to read me the stories in her books.
But then there are those times that she just wants to be held. Times when she wants me to blow on her food because it is too hot. Times when she is scared and needs me to go with her to make sure it is all right. Times when she needs me to wipe her hiner! I love that little girl. I am not ready for my baby to grow up! She still has a long way to go!
This made me think of her and how little she is and how big she is all at the same time. Not quite 3 she is talking like a big girl. She is completely potty trained and she doesn't even tell me when she has to go anymore (hence the reason she has to come find me to help her!). She is "writing" her letters and shapes, she only knows how to make a circle. And she loves to read me the stories in her books.
But then there are those times that she just wants to be held. Times when she wants me to blow on her food because it is too hot. Times when she is scared and needs me to go with her to make sure it is all right. Times when she needs me to wipe her hiner! I love that little girl. I am not ready for my baby to grow up! She still has a long way to go!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
My 2 year old is a MESS!
Many of you know that both of my girls have their favorite security items. For Ellie it is a little brown puppy appropriately named, Puppy, and then a pink and white crocheted blanket from Mimi. For Charlotte it is a little (used to be) white sheep from Bath and Body Works appropriately named, Sheepy. So now that you are all caught up....
About two weeks ago Puppy went missing. It was a sad day in the house. Ellie cried and did not sleep well the first couple of nights. Thankfully she was able to get over it and really has only missed it when she was extremely tired. I found it odd that we couldn't find Puppy. I had just seen him in the gameroom and he just disappeared. We even cleaned it well and couldn't find him. So two weeks and a very tired and cranky girl later, I decided to look one more time!
*Just a little side note here. To all you Mom's out there, are you the only one who can find anything in your house? I am! And it drives me nuts!
Anyway back to the story. Last night I decided to take one more look. Behind the couch under a few strategically placed items was PUPPY!! I was so excited. I quickly took him to Ellie, who was already in bed, and she was elated. I told her where I found him and that it appeared someone had hidden him there.
Charlotte jumped out of bed and declared, "I did it!". She was so proud. She then told us that she had put it in her "Fecret hidin' pwace" (secret hiding place). She is such a MESS! For two weeks she has known that we were looking for it and she remained quiet like she had no idea. If this is how she is at 2 what will she be like at 15? Lord, help me now!
About two weeks ago Puppy went missing. It was a sad day in the house. Ellie cried and did not sleep well the first couple of nights. Thankfully she was able to get over it and really has only missed it when she was extremely tired. I found it odd that we couldn't find Puppy. I had just seen him in the gameroom and he just disappeared. We even cleaned it well and couldn't find him. So two weeks and a very tired and cranky girl later, I decided to look one more time!
*Just a little side note here. To all you Mom's out there, are you the only one who can find anything in your house? I am! And it drives me nuts!
Anyway back to the story. Last night I decided to take one more look. Behind the couch under a few strategically placed items was PUPPY!! I was so excited. I quickly took him to Ellie, who was already in bed, and she was elated. I told her where I found him and that it appeared someone had hidden him there.
Charlotte jumped out of bed and declared, "I did it!". She was so proud. She then told us that she had put it in her "Fecret hidin' pwace" (secret hiding place). She is such a MESS! For two weeks she has known that we were looking for it and she remained quiet like she had no idea. If this is how she is at 2 what will she be like at 15? Lord, help me now!
Been Thinkin'
I have not been blogging because I don't know what I should be writing about. This blog has taken a whole other direction then what I had originally intended. Originally it was just a way for me to let my family see pictures and hear stories about the kids. Now it is more about my life and my walk with the Lord. Don't get me wrong. I don't think there is anything wrong with that.
I have been thinking about starting a new blog. Really a second one. One that is for me. Just about my journey. The kids are a part of my journey but I really want this blog (A Day in the Life of the Brown's) to be about the whole family. Not just me.
So these are some things that I have been thinkin' about. What do you all think?
I have been thinking about starting a new blog. Really a second one. One that is for me. Just about my journey. The kids are a part of my journey but I really want this blog (A Day in the Life of the Brown's) to be about the whole family. Not just me.
So these are some things that I have been thinkin' about. What do you all think?
Friday, June 3, 2011
A leap of faith...and a new baby!
No I AM NOT HAVING A BABY! :)
I want to share something that I think it is really cool. Two years ago our church began calling on us to pray for the most unreached people group in the world, the preborn. These little lives are so precious and ordained by our Maker and they are being mercilessly killed everyday..by the thousands. Now I am so against abortion it is not even funny, but there are instances where even some Christians think it is okay to do this. One of them is after a test that you get in the early stages of pregnancy that lets you know of any birth defects. One of those "defects" is Down Syndrome. This test by the way is not very accurate (I have known many to have a positive test result just to have a baby born with the correct amount of chromosomes). These babies are more often then not....aborted.
Over the last year I have become very close to a beautiful family with a little boy that has an extra one of these chromosomes. His name is Jonas. He is one of the most precious human beings I have ever come in contact with. Sure, he is delayed. But I believe that he is closer to God than I could ever be. He is innocent. He is precious. He is just the way God wants him to be.
That being said. His parents, Roger and Mindy, have decided to be accountable for those preborn babies. They have been called by the Lord to be the alternative to abortion; to adopt a child that is just as special, just as precious, and with a purpose just like Jonas. This is not an ordinary adoption. They have to go through a private agency and a national network. They don't have a ton of money, but this is what the Lord has called them to do. This is considered a "private adoption" and there are costs involved.
Oh I forgot to mention that Mindy is a phenomenal quilter/sewer. So she decided to make quilts and raffle them off! She also makes bags that you can purchase here. She will also make a quilt for you. Just let her know the size and the type of fabric you like and she will quote a price. Her email is (mindychurchill at yahoo dot com). All of the money raised will go to saving the life of a child that God made with a purpose.
I hope you take the time to check out her blog and her facebook page! This is a special family and they are doing a great thing!
I want to share something that I think it is really cool. Two years ago our church began calling on us to pray for the most unreached people group in the world, the preborn. These little lives are so precious and ordained by our Maker and they are being mercilessly killed everyday..by the thousands. Now I am so against abortion it is not even funny, but there are instances where even some Christians think it is okay to do this. One of them is after a test that you get in the early stages of pregnancy that lets you know of any birth defects. One of those "defects" is Down Syndrome. This test by the way is not very accurate (I have known many to have a positive test result just to have a baby born with the correct amount of chromosomes). These babies are more often then not....aborted.
Over the last year I have become very close to a beautiful family with a little boy that has an extra one of these chromosomes. His name is Jonas. He is one of the most precious human beings I have ever come in contact with. Sure, he is delayed. But I believe that he is closer to God than I could ever be. He is innocent. He is precious. He is just the way God wants him to be.
That being said. His parents, Roger and Mindy, have decided to be accountable for those preborn babies. They have been called by the Lord to be the alternative to abortion; to adopt a child that is just as special, just as precious, and with a purpose just like Jonas. This is not an ordinary adoption. They have to go through a private agency and a national network. They don't have a ton of money, but this is what the Lord has called them to do. This is considered a "private adoption" and there are costs involved.
Oh I forgot to mention that Mindy is a phenomenal quilter/sewer. So she decided to make quilts and raffle them off! She also makes bags that you can purchase here. She will also make a quilt for you. Just let her know the size and the type of fabric you like and she will quote a price. Her email is (mindychurchill at yahoo dot com). All of the money raised will go to saving the life of a child that God made with a purpose.
I hope you take the time to check out her blog and her facebook page! This is a special family and they are doing a great thing!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
I feel as though I should post something. It has been a while. I have thought of several posts but I have scratched each one. Not because the content wasn't important but really because it was too emotionally charged. I have struggled over the last week or so with some strong emotions. Part of me wants to blame others the other part knows that it is me and me alone that can take the blame for the hurt feelings or anger. So I choose not to blog about it.
We are still unsure of Troy's job situation. It looks like he has two offers on the table by two different companies. Now it is time to pray. I can't imagine that God would so clearly shut doors in this process (7 months to be exact) just to give us this very difficult decision at the very end. The thing is one job would be extremely rewarding..he would be helping those in need (much like we have been). But the pay is not that great...actually it is not good at all. But there is a possibility that they will offer more (we will know on Monday). The next job is much more rewarding financially. The pay is more than he made at BAE and we would be comfortable when it came to paying bills (something that has not happened in a while). To many this is a no-brainer, but to us it is a difficult decision. God calls us to do things that are not the "norm" and if we are obedient then he will reward us in that.
So that is all I've got. At least about the Troy-job stuff. We are still schooling. It is hard because I am done and so are the kids. But we are going to school all summer. I know it sounds crazy but I really want to take off November and December. If we school this summer we should not get off schedule too much.
I still don't have a camera, but I am working on it. The kids are enjoying our unit study on shells (yes we are still doing it!). Hopefully we will actually get it finished soon and get to move on. I have a Memorial Day study that I would like to do...so we better get crackin'!
Until next time....Be blessed!
We are still unsure of Troy's job situation. It looks like he has two offers on the table by two different companies. Now it is time to pray. I can't imagine that God would so clearly shut doors in this process (7 months to be exact) just to give us this very difficult decision at the very end. The thing is one job would be extremely rewarding..he would be helping those in need (much like we have been). But the pay is not that great...actually it is not good at all. But there is a possibility that they will offer more (we will know on Monday). The next job is much more rewarding financially. The pay is more than he made at BAE and we would be comfortable when it came to paying bills (something that has not happened in a while). To many this is a no-brainer, but to us it is a difficult decision. God calls us to do things that are not the "norm" and if we are obedient then he will reward us in that.
So that is all I've got. At least about the Troy-job stuff. We are still schooling. It is hard because I am done and so are the kids. But we are going to school all summer. I know it sounds crazy but I really want to take off November and December. If we school this summer we should not get off schedule too much.
I still don't have a camera, but I am working on it. The kids are enjoying our unit study on shells (yes we are still doing it!). Hopefully we will actually get it finished soon and get to move on. I have a Memorial Day study that I would like to do...so we better get crackin'!
Until next time....Be blessed!
Saturday, May 7, 2011
I am God
Last Sunday we had an awesome lesson on "doing good" (Galations 6:9-10). I walked away feeling refreshed by the Holy Spirit. Before I got to my car someone handed me an envelope with cash and a post-it. The post-it read: "Be still and know I am God" (with a smiley face). The amount of money was substantial and I was overwhelmed with the feeling that another believer was "doing good" for us out of obedience to His Word.
Monday, Troy had a job interview. It went really well. He felt like he was going to get it. They would call on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, we got a letter in the mail from the unemployment office. We have not received benefits from them for the entire month of April and in actuality he had only been paid $20 from Lowe's in April. So our total income for the month of April was $86 (only because I worked a couple of days at the church). In all of that every single bill was paid on time. We received the right amount of money from others (without asking) to pay for ALL of our bills. That is a substantial amount let me just tell you!
Also on Tuesday, I had to go to the ER, but first went to Urgent Care. I am fine but the total cost between the two places was the amount that was in the envelope on Sunday.
On Wednesday, Troy talked to the place he interviewed at and they said wait til Friday.
We have been receiving medical benefits for the kids (more of a safety net) while Troy has been unemployed. (Most of our debt is due to medical bills that occurred when he was unemployed before.) We also have been receiving food stamps. Not something that we are proud of but a necessity (especially when your mortgage is 85% of your income). On Thursday we received a letter that they were no longer going to allow us these benefits. Why you say? Well there is no good reason...
Friday has come and gone. We still don't know about the job. My children do not have insurance. I really don't know how we will pay for food. But what I do know is that I was told on Sunday to "Be still and know that I am God". This was no coincidence. That post-it is on my refrigerator door right now. All week whenever I have had a conversation or the phone has rang or I have felt overwhelmed with it all, I hear the words; "Be still and know I am God".
I wonderful lesson for me this week. The lesson is still not over. Who knows when it will be. But what I do know is that He is God-Redeemer, Maker, Healer, Provider, King of kings, Lord of lords, Hosanna, Messiah, Alpha and Omega. Without Him there would be no hope.
Monday, Troy had a job interview. It went really well. He felt like he was going to get it. They would call on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, we got a letter in the mail from the unemployment office. We have not received benefits from them for the entire month of April and in actuality he had only been paid $20 from Lowe's in April. So our total income for the month of April was $86 (only because I worked a couple of days at the church). In all of that every single bill was paid on time. We received the right amount of money from others (without asking) to pay for ALL of our bills. That is a substantial amount let me just tell you!
Also on Tuesday, I had to go to the ER, but first went to Urgent Care. I am fine but the total cost between the two places was the amount that was in the envelope on Sunday.
On Wednesday, Troy talked to the place he interviewed at and they said wait til Friday.
We have been receiving medical benefits for the kids (more of a safety net) while Troy has been unemployed. (Most of our debt is due to medical bills that occurred when he was unemployed before.) We also have been receiving food stamps. Not something that we are proud of but a necessity (especially when your mortgage is 85% of your income). On Thursday we received a letter that they were no longer going to allow us these benefits. Why you say? Well there is no good reason...
Friday has come and gone. We still don't know about the job. My children do not have insurance. I really don't know how we will pay for food. But what I do know is that I was told on Sunday to "Be still and know that I am God". This was no coincidence. That post-it is on my refrigerator door right now. All week whenever I have had a conversation or the phone has rang or I have felt overwhelmed with it all, I hear the words; "Be still and know I am God".
I wonderful lesson for me this week. The lesson is still not over. Who knows when it will be. But what I do know is that He is God-Redeemer, Maker, Healer, Provider, King of kings, Lord of lords, Hosanna, Messiah, Alpha and Omega. Without Him there would be no hope.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Unplugged
Today marks Palm Sunday, the day Jesus entered the city. The day that Hosanna came. The day he proclaimed without any words that He was the Messiah. This is all leading up to the fact that He died.
He died.
He died a very brutal and painful sinner's death.
He died a very brutal and painful sinner's death even though he was unblemished.
He died a very brutal and painful sinner's death even though he was unblemished for me so that I could have eternal life.
I came home from church today thinking about that. This is very overwhelming. I began reading my Bible and just concentrating on His Word. While I did that I was interrupted several times by my children. I don't mind the interruptions but these were for things like the TV and video games and computer time. Their lives, and mine for that matter, are consumed by something that is not godly. The TV, video games and computer have all become distractions from what is truly important. So this week we are unplugging! I am turning everything off. I still have school and will commit to only turning on the computer for school related activities. But I will not be on facebook or blogging. I want to lead by example and train up my children in the way they should go!
He died.
He died a very brutal and painful sinner's death.
He died a very brutal and painful sinner's death even though he was unblemished.
He died a very brutal and painful sinner's death even though he was unblemished for me so that I could have eternal life.
I came home from church today thinking about that. This is very overwhelming. I began reading my Bible and just concentrating on His Word. While I did that I was interrupted several times by my children. I don't mind the interruptions but these were for things like the TV and video games and computer time. Their lives, and mine for that matter, are consumed by something that is not godly. The TV, video games and computer have all become distractions from what is truly important. So this week we are unplugging! I am turning everything off. I still have school and will commit to only turning on the computer for school related activities. But I will not be on facebook or blogging. I want to lead by example and train up my children in the way they should go!
Deuteronomy 16:22 "You shall not set up for yourself a sacred pillar which the Lord your God hates."
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 "Hear O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all you heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words with which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you are in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Keeping up the momentum
I feel as though I must post something. I have been doing much better about posting things on here.
The newest thing that is going on at the Brown house is that Troy is having half of his toe amputated sometime this week. The infection in his toe is healing nicely but the infected bone has started to degenerate which is common in diabetics. This is something that we are at peace about. We know that we tried all that we could and now this is out of our hands.
We are having insurance woes again but I am certain God will work out those details. We have the money to self-pay but it would completely wipe out all of our cushion (and since he hasn't been able to work through all of this, we need it). We are willing to do just that because we are confident in His provision.
So where are we now. He cannot have the surgery until we get the insurance resolved so it looks like we will wait until Thursday. Hopefully this will be the beginning of the end of all this mess!
The newest thing that is going on at the Brown house is that Troy is having half of his toe amputated sometime this week. The infection in his toe is healing nicely but the infected bone has started to degenerate which is common in diabetics. This is something that we are at peace about. We know that we tried all that we could and now this is out of our hands.
We are having insurance woes again but I am certain God will work out those details. We have the money to self-pay but it would completely wipe out all of our cushion (and since he hasn't been able to work through all of this, we need it). We are willing to do just that because we are confident in His provision.
So where are we now. He cannot have the surgery until we get the insurance resolved so it looks like we will wait until Thursday. Hopefully this will be the beginning of the end of all this mess!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Sun Stand Still (Part 1)-Audacious Faith
I am reading a new book, Sun Stand Still by Steven Furtick. I wanted to write about it because I have not been able to put it down. It is such an awesome book and I think it will be an awesome movement if followers of Christ step up and believe in the power of Jesus Christ.
I labeled this post "Part 1" because I am only on chapter 6. I can't begin to tell you about the whole book or all the concepts in it, yet!
So the first thing I want to tell you about is the title of the book, Sun Stand Still. It is in reference to the prayer of Joshua when he was fighting the Ammorites. Joshua prayed and asked God to make the sun stand still (Joshua 10:12) so that he could defeat them all! God heard his prayer and he did just that. He stopped the sun. He suspended time. One thing I like about Furtick is that he believes that Word of God is just that, the Word of God. He takes everything that is said in between the cover of it as face value, 100% true, no if's and's or but's! I have been and still am the same way. So this miracle that God performed for Joshua was just that a miraculous thing. Furtick challenges modern day Christians to have the same boldness in their faith. To know what God has called you to do and then to act out in faith that he will provide for you and work miracles for his glory.
When I first started reading this book I felt like it was one of those 'if you believe it you can achieve it' books. This is NOT one of them! Furtick is very clear that there is only one way to get anything done and that is through Christ Jesus. He is just trying to wake up a stagnant church that goes about life in such a way that does nothing to further the Kingdom of God.
One of the cool things he talks about is "Audacious Faith". He notes that audacity has a negative connotation to it but that he wants to change that for God. Think about Joshua, he had the audacity to ask God to stop time...and he did! It makes me think of all the plans the Lord had and still has for me. Will I believe in his power and his promises and have the audacity to ask him to move in me so that his kingdom will grow? Or will I miss out completely?
I know that I can't wait to hear the words, "Well done good and faithful servant". But I need to act in order to hear them.
This book is really cool and I am excited to read more and share it with you all.
I labeled this post "Part 1" because I am only on chapter 6. I can't begin to tell you about the whole book or all the concepts in it, yet!
So the first thing I want to tell you about is the title of the book, Sun Stand Still. It is in reference to the prayer of Joshua when he was fighting the Ammorites. Joshua prayed and asked God to make the sun stand still (Joshua 10:12) so that he could defeat them all! God heard his prayer and he did just that. He stopped the sun. He suspended time. One thing I like about Furtick is that he believes that Word of God is just that, the Word of God. He takes everything that is said in between the cover of it as face value, 100% true, no if's and's or but's! I have been and still am the same way. So this miracle that God performed for Joshua was just that a miraculous thing. Furtick challenges modern day Christians to have the same boldness in their faith. To know what God has called you to do and then to act out in faith that he will provide for you and work miracles for his glory.
When I first started reading this book I felt like it was one of those 'if you believe it you can achieve it' books. This is NOT one of them! Furtick is very clear that there is only one way to get anything done and that is through Christ Jesus. He is just trying to wake up a stagnant church that goes about life in such a way that does nothing to further the Kingdom of God.
One of the cool things he talks about is "Audacious Faith". He notes that audacity has a negative connotation to it but that he wants to change that for God. Think about Joshua, he had the audacity to ask God to stop time...and he did! It makes me think of all the plans the Lord had and still has for me. Will I believe in his power and his promises and have the audacity to ask him to move in me so that his kingdom will grow? Or will I miss out completely?
I know that I can't wait to hear the words, "Well done good and faithful servant". But I need to act in order to hear them.
This book is really cool and I am excited to read more and share it with you all.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Something that I have noticed in my life and in this journey is that after a really big high from the Lord I usually have a deep plunge. Earlier this week I posted an awesome testimony of God's goodness in my life. I was at the top of the mountain. Today I sit in front of my computer at the bottom of the valley. I have been praying and asking God to get me out. He will, I just have to learn why I am here first. (He is funny that way!).
I was getting ready for church and the whole time I was having this HUGE pity party for myself. I started thinking about what caused it and there were a few things. One was the show that I watched last night. It really brought me down. It is one of my favorite shows but the content was so graphic and so inappropriate that it actually kept me from getting a good night sleep. For awhile now I have felt like I should stop watching such shows but I have yet to do it. I think that this is the kick in the pants I needed! :) Second, I feel very lonely. There have been some situations with friends that have happened recently that have been quite insignificant and yet Satan has been able to take them and twist them and made me feel like I didn't have a true friend in the world. I know that is not true. God has placed an awesome group of women in my life.
As I fought back tears, feeling sorry about myself, I started telling myself truth. The truth is that I am a child of God. He loves me above all other things and that is what truly matters. Not what is on TV and not my earthly relationships. Sure God has put people in my life to love on me and to encourage me, but really the most important thing is my relationship with Him. Without Him I have nothing!
I went to church this morning still battered. Worship was good. I just cried the whole time. I felt close to Him. There was a new song that we sang (I will get the words and post them here) that was so powerful. We then had an awesome sermon on legalism. It was out of Galations. It reminded me of God's true grace and how much He loves me. I let things get in the way of that and that is so silly. We all do though, I think.
Even in our ABF we talked about faith and it made me feel good. Thankful that God never goes back on His promises. That even though he called Abraham to offer Isaac as a sacrifice, He did not require him to do it. He instead allowed Isaac to be the fulfillment of the promise made to his father so many years before.
Life is not going to always be easy, this we can count on. I just have to remember that when I am doing something to further His kingdom then I will be on the enemy's radar. But I am protected by the Sword of the Spirit and the power that is in the name of Jesus Christ.
I was getting ready for church and the whole time I was having this HUGE pity party for myself. I started thinking about what caused it and there were a few things. One was the show that I watched last night. It really brought me down. It is one of my favorite shows but the content was so graphic and so inappropriate that it actually kept me from getting a good night sleep. For awhile now I have felt like I should stop watching such shows but I have yet to do it. I think that this is the kick in the pants I needed! :) Second, I feel very lonely. There have been some situations with friends that have happened recently that have been quite insignificant and yet Satan has been able to take them and twist them and made me feel like I didn't have a true friend in the world. I know that is not true. God has placed an awesome group of women in my life.
As I fought back tears, feeling sorry about myself, I started telling myself truth. The truth is that I am a child of God. He loves me above all other things and that is what truly matters. Not what is on TV and not my earthly relationships. Sure God has put people in my life to love on me and to encourage me, but really the most important thing is my relationship with Him. Without Him I have nothing!
I went to church this morning still battered. Worship was good. I just cried the whole time. I felt close to Him. There was a new song that we sang (I will get the words and post them here) that was so powerful. We then had an awesome sermon on legalism. It was out of Galations. It reminded me of God's true grace and how much He loves me. I let things get in the way of that and that is so silly. We all do though, I think.
Even in our ABF we talked about faith and it made me feel good. Thankful that God never goes back on His promises. That even though he called Abraham to offer Isaac as a sacrifice, He did not require him to do it. He instead allowed Isaac to be the fulfillment of the promise made to his father so many years before.
Life is not going to always be easy, this we can count on. I just have to remember that when I am doing something to further His kingdom then I will be on the enemy's radar. But I am protected by the Sword of the Spirit and the power that is in the name of Jesus Christ.
1 Blessed is the one
whose transgressions are forgiven,
whose sins are covered.
2 Blessed is the one
whose sin the LORD does not count against them
and in whose spirit is no deceit.
3 When I kept silent,
my bones wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
4 For day and night
your hand was heavy on me;
my strength was sapped
as in the heat of summer.[b]
5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you
and did not cover up my iniquity.
I said, “I will confess
my transgressions to the LORD.”
And you forgave
the guilt of my sin.
6 Therefore let all the faithful pray to you
while you may be found;
surely the rising of the mighty waters
will not reach them.
7 You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance.
8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
9 Do not be like the horse or the mule,
which have no understanding
but must be controlled by bit and bridle
or they will not come to you.
10 Many are the woes of the wicked,
but the LORD’s unfailing love
surrounds the one who trusts in him.
11 Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous;
sing, all you who are upright in heart!
Psalm 32
Friday, April 1, 2011
His Wonderful Works
I know it is the name of a good friends blog but I had to post about how wonderful the Lord has been to us this last week. I am documenting our journey so that when I forget (much like those silly Israelite's) I will be able to look back and see how awesome He is!
On Sunday, after church, Troy came home way early from work and said that he had an ulcer on his foot and he was going to run up to the Walgreen's Clinic and get an antibiotic for it. This is the first I had heard that he was having problems (Troy is extremely private about certain things). Two hours later the phone rang and the caller ID let me know that someone from the hospital was calling. It was Troy letting me know he had been admitted into the hospital. He had gone to Walgreens and Urgent Care and they both said to go straight to the hospital. Once at the hospital the nurse knew right away he would be admitted.
I was shocked! I had no idea what was going on. I quickly found a ride because he had our only car. I wasn't able to see him right away because he was still in the ER and children were not allowed back. This was a God thing because I was so mad. I wanted to chew him a new one! But instead I had to go back home. I dropped the kids off with Lindy, my wonderful neighbor, and went to pick up dinner for Troy and myself. In the parking lot of Schlotzky's I just started talking our loud to God. "I am so mad, Lord! I can't believe that he kept this from me and I can't believe that he wouldn't just go to the FREE doctor. Now we don't have insurance and this is going to cost a fortune! Why do we always have to be in DEBT?!?!?!?" As I talked to Him I was soon comforted. I knew that my husband was priceless and really if the bill was a million dollars I still had him. I got all of my anger and frustration out by talking to the Lord and let me tell you that my heart was softened by the time I made it the couple of miles to the hospital.
When I got there, Troy was really down. He was mad at himself. But because I had already had this talk with God I was able to encourage Troy instead of tear him down. I admitted to him I was mad but that there was no changing it, there was only moving forward and doing better next time.
That night on the way home from the hospital there was an interview on KSBJ about debt with scripture affirming how God felt about it. I was encouraged that He gave me that opportunity to hear it. I also found out there will be a seminar coming up in April and it is free and I am going!
On Monday we found out that the infection was all the way down to the bone and Troy had to have an MRI to make sure that the infection was not IN the bone. I was still worried about the finances but I knew that somehow God would take care of it. I got a message from a friend that said she was praying specifically for God to do something miraculous with the insurance situation. She felt as though the Holy Spirit was leading her to pray this. That day a post card from Lowe's came in the mail reminding Troy to sign up for medical insurance online. We did.
Meanwhile back at the hospital Troy had an MRI and our worst fears were confirmed. The infection was in the bone. And we needed to decide whether or not to amputate. The amputation would be about half of his big toe. Y'all this the hardest thing we have ever gone through! What to do? I know what I thought was right but it was not my decision. It was Troy's. We prayed over it. I had a complete peace that no matter what we decided that it would be right. I just didn't have a peace about what to decide! (Does that make sense?). Meanwhile, I kept getting little notes here and there encouraging me and many of them were direct answers to prayer, they just didn't know it!
We had to make a decision fast and Troy decided to NOT amputate and try 6 weeks of IV antibiotics. I was worried but okay with his decision. Then his doctor came in and said that we had to get approval from the infectious disease doctor for antibiotics. All of the sudden our choice was taken away. I felt good about that.
Meanwhile I asked specifically from my prayer warriors to pray that the insurance would accept the claim. It would have to be an act of God because we enrolled after he was already in the hospital and this was considered a pre-existing condition. The ramifications of that are HUGE, let me just tell you! We were worried about after care and the cost involved. We filed for emergency medicaid and were denied. I was beginning to get discouraged. Then all of a sudden I felt peace, peace that passes all understanding. I was home when Troy called to let me know that the insurance company agreed to pay for it ALL!!
I couldn't believe it! It was a huge answer to prayer and I knew that it only could have happened with the Lord. He finally came home on Thursday. He is currently on oral antibiotics for the next 6 weeks. We will see how it works. He has MRSA, a staph infection that is resistant to antibiotics. But the doctors are sure his "cocktail" will make it better. I am sure that my God will make it better!
God is so good and He takes care of those that love Him. And you know what...He takes care of those that don't too. He loves you. Give Him a chance to love on you, you will be amazed!
On Sunday, after church, Troy came home way early from work and said that he had an ulcer on his foot and he was going to run up to the Walgreen's Clinic and get an antibiotic for it. This is the first I had heard that he was having problems (Troy is extremely private about certain things). Two hours later the phone rang and the caller ID let me know that someone from the hospital was calling. It was Troy letting me know he had been admitted into the hospital. He had gone to Walgreens and Urgent Care and they both said to go straight to the hospital. Once at the hospital the nurse knew right away he would be admitted.
I was shocked! I had no idea what was going on. I quickly found a ride because he had our only car. I wasn't able to see him right away because he was still in the ER and children were not allowed back. This was a God thing because I was so mad. I wanted to chew him a new one! But instead I had to go back home. I dropped the kids off with Lindy, my wonderful neighbor, and went to pick up dinner for Troy and myself. In the parking lot of Schlotzky's I just started talking our loud to God. "I am so mad, Lord! I can't believe that he kept this from me and I can't believe that he wouldn't just go to the FREE doctor. Now we don't have insurance and this is going to cost a fortune! Why do we always have to be in DEBT?!?!?!?" As I talked to Him I was soon comforted. I knew that my husband was priceless and really if the bill was a million dollars I still had him. I got all of my anger and frustration out by talking to the Lord and let me tell you that my heart was softened by the time I made it the couple of miles to the hospital.
When I got there, Troy was really down. He was mad at himself. But because I had already had this talk with God I was able to encourage Troy instead of tear him down. I admitted to him I was mad but that there was no changing it, there was only moving forward and doing better next time.
That night on the way home from the hospital there was an interview on KSBJ about debt with scripture affirming how God felt about it. I was encouraged that He gave me that opportunity to hear it. I also found out there will be a seminar coming up in April and it is free and I am going!
On Monday we found out that the infection was all the way down to the bone and Troy had to have an MRI to make sure that the infection was not IN the bone. I was still worried about the finances but I knew that somehow God would take care of it. I got a message from a friend that said she was praying specifically for God to do something miraculous with the insurance situation. She felt as though the Holy Spirit was leading her to pray this. That day a post card from Lowe's came in the mail reminding Troy to sign up for medical insurance online. We did.
Meanwhile back at the hospital Troy had an MRI and our worst fears were confirmed. The infection was in the bone. And we needed to decide whether or not to amputate. The amputation would be about half of his big toe. Y'all this the hardest thing we have ever gone through! What to do? I know what I thought was right but it was not my decision. It was Troy's. We prayed over it. I had a complete peace that no matter what we decided that it would be right. I just didn't have a peace about what to decide! (Does that make sense?). Meanwhile, I kept getting little notes here and there encouraging me and many of them were direct answers to prayer, they just didn't know it!
We had to make a decision fast and Troy decided to NOT amputate and try 6 weeks of IV antibiotics. I was worried but okay with his decision. Then his doctor came in and said that we had to get approval from the infectious disease doctor for antibiotics. All of the sudden our choice was taken away. I felt good about that.
Meanwhile I asked specifically from my prayer warriors to pray that the insurance would accept the claim. It would have to be an act of God because we enrolled after he was already in the hospital and this was considered a pre-existing condition. The ramifications of that are HUGE, let me just tell you! We were worried about after care and the cost involved. We filed for emergency medicaid and were denied. I was beginning to get discouraged. Then all of a sudden I felt peace, peace that passes all understanding. I was home when Troy called to let me know that the insurance company agreed to pay for it ALL!!
I couldn't believe it! It was a huge answer to prayer and I knew that it only could have happened with the Lord. He finally came home on Thursday. He is currently on oral antibiotics for the next 6 weeks. We will see how it works. He has MRSA, a staph infection that is resistant to antibiotics. But the doctors are sure his "cocktail" will make it better. I am sure that my God will make it better!
God is so good and He takes care of those that love Him. And you know what...He takes care of those that don't too. He loves you. Give Him a chance to love on you, you will be amazed!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
She can swing!
It is a typical morning in the Brown house today. We just finished working on our lap books and now the kids are outside enjoying the semi-cool morning while I catch up on email and other random things. I am sitting in the living room in front of our big window occasionally looking up and watching what they are doing. And much to my surprise I see me 2 1/2 year old sitting on a 'big' swing going almost as high as her sister. The only thing is there is no one pushing her. As I watch her I realize she is pumping her legs!
Oh my goodness! She can swing!
I know that first children are slow to do things because they don't have someone to watch and the subsequent siblings catch on more quickly; but man, I was not expecting this! She is growing up so fast and that makes me so sad! :( If I am being totally honest it makes my uterus hurt! I have been heart broken over her milestones because that means that she is no longer a baby. She is closer to a preschooler than a toddler now. I know I am not the only one who feels this way..right?
Oh my goodness! She can swing!
I know that first children are slow to do things because they don't have someone to watch and the subsequent siblings catch on more quickly; but man, I was not expecting this! She is growing up so fast and that makes me so sad! :( If I am being totally honest it makes my uterus hurt! I have been heart broken over her milestones because that means that she is no longer a baby. She is closer to a preschooler than a toddler now. I know I am not the only one who feels this way..right?
Sunday, March 20, 2011
God is so good!
I have been struggling with homeschooling and being a full time student myself. Especially since I want to work with special needs kids and my kids do not fall under that category. So what the heck is God doing? Why is He calling me to do all of this so? It doesn't make sense.
Then today in our ABF (Adult Bible Fellowship) we talked about Abram and his faith. We talked about how he was righteous in the sight of the Lord because of his faith. He was not perfect but he still believed. There were several questions from others and our fearless leader, Barry, did a great job leading the discussion. I was even able to share some of what I have been going through over the past several months. I left class feeling good about the valley that I have been in. The emotional, physical, financial, uncertain valley. Only because I was reminded of how good God is. He truly is!
Fast forward to picking up my child downstairs....I ran into someone that I have been talking to about a possible job opportunity. One that would allow me to use my schooling and still homeschool my kids. One that seems very cool yet it is still so far away (not until May 2012). As she was talking to me she started revealing some very cool stuff. HUGE plans that she has for me. Plans that she has prayed and prayed over and the Lord has put me in the forefront of her mind. Plans that are so cool and so huge that I am SURE they are from the Lord.
I can't give all details now but what I do know is that my faith is still strong, but it just got a huge boost. It feels renewed. As I was making lunch for the kids I said a prayer thanking Him for His goodness and His plan. I was also mindful that there are other aspects that I don't know yet and that is okay but what I do know is that He is in control and that my friends is so comforting!
We were challenged to memorize some scripture this week and honestly these verses were the first thing to pop in my head as I was praying today.
Then today in our ABF (Adult Bible Fellowship) we talked about Abram and his faith. We talked about how he was righteous in the sight of the Lord because of his faith. He was not perfect but he still believed. There were several questions from others and our fearless leader, Barry, did a great job leading the discussion. I was even able to share some of what I have been going through over the past several months. I left class feeling good about the valley that I have been in. The emotional, physical, financial, uncertain valley. Only because I was reminded of how good God is. He truly is!
Fast forward to picking up my child downstairs....I ran into someone that I have been talking to about a possible job opportunity. One that would allow me to use my schooling and still homeschool my kids. One that seems very cool yet it is still so far away (not until May 2012). As she was talking to me she started revealing some very cool stuff. HUGE plans that she has for me. Plans that she has prayed and prayed over and the Lord has put me in the forefront of her mind. Plans that are so cool and so huge that I am SURE they are from the Lord.
I can't give all details now but what I do know is that my faith is still strong, but it just got a huge boost. It feels renewed. As I was making lunch for the kids I said a prayer thanking Him for His goodness and His plan. I was also mindful that there are other aspects that I don't know yet and that is okay but what I do know is that He is in control and that my friends is so comforting!
We were challenged to memorize some scripture this week and honestly these verses were the first thing to pop in my head as I was praying today.
"Yet, with the respect to the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully assured that what God had promised, He was able also to perform." Romans 4:20-21
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
