tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-776722997091736702024-02-07T07:41:36.498-06:00For Love Of Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.comBlogger300125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-61534425170666318022014-09-30T10:59:00.001-05:002014-09-30T10:59:54.117-05:00#tenthousandreasons<br />
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<br />
i think i may have found the secret to being content. <br />
ready for it?<br />
<br />
staying thankful. <br />
<br />
okay, okay so maybe that's quite obvious, but it doesn't always seem so, especially when we're struggling to find contentment, no?<br />
<br />
but i think the reason, at least with my experience, for struggling with finding contentment, is because we keep striving for something more. <br />
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more house, more trendy wardrobe, more vacations, more followers (yes i said it), more tidyness, etc, etc. the list could go on.<br />
and all the while we are wishing for more, we completely become blind to the many blessings we already have. <br />
<br />
because you know, waking up IS a blessing, seeing your kiddo(s) and spouse wake up and being able to see a smile on their face IS a blessing. <br />
the cup of hot coffee we pour ourselves, the home we live in as small as it may be, the shoes we wear, the food we eat, i could go on, everything IS a blessing. <br />
<br />
just because we receive it everyday and we've become accustomed to receiving them or expectant of them, doesn't make them NOT a blessing. <br />
because you know what?<br />
<br />
we don't have to receive them. we haven't really done anything or given anything deserving of any of it.<br />
but we do because of mercy that renews each morning. <br />
and THAT in itself is the greatest blessing. <br />
<br />
that makes me so extremely happy inside. we are blessed beyond measure friends. <br />
<br />
there are ten thousand reasons for our heart to find gratitude towards the Lord, as matt redman sings. <br />
and when we feel yucky or discontent, or that we have nothing good in our lives, i encourage you to sing this at the top of your lungs, mentally or physically listing everything we have been given, knowing none of it is deserved.<br />
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i promise, it will change your attitude dramatically. because sometimes we HAVE to remind our soul that there are indeed ten thousand reasons to remain thankful. there are ten thousand ways and forever more in which He shows His goodness. <br />
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XOXO,</div>
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LEAH</div>
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-26251248753090473342014-09-24T10:06:00.002-05:002014-09-24T10:06:38.018-05:00just free. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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grace is free yall. completely free. <br />
and each time that i'm reminded of it, it's as priceless as the time before. <br />
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yesterday morning, i lost my temper. <br />
<br />
teenage years are no easy feat to deal with, and in the early hours of the morning? just no. <br />
i yelled unnecessarily. i dampened my spirit and as i walked out of the store we had stopped at, with a look that clearly told everyone to get out of my way, an older man came up to me and told me:<br />
<br />
'i know you are mad, and i know it's hard with the kids. believe me, i know it's hard, but there are ways we can handle our anger. the bible has answers.'<br />
<br />
he proceeded to give me a little pamphlet inviting me to seek God's Word. <br />
<br />
humbled much? yep. <br />
<br />
had i read the Word that morning? no.<br />
had i prayed that morning before leaving the house? no.<br />
<br />
and i felt horribly small. defeated. failed. ugly. <br />
<br />
i apologized to my kids, but still on my way to work, i couldn't shake it. <br />
i prayed and within my prayer, i asked the Lord to forgive me even though i couldn't give him anything in return. to forgive me, even though i struggle with losing my temper so much.<br />
and yet still driving in to work, i didn't feel forgiven. <br />
<br />
i stopped at a gas station to return a redbox movie and i saw him.<br />
<br />
looked like he hadn't showered in days, hunched back, lonely.<br />
<br />
i don't always, but right then and there, i felt that nudge. you know that nudge. go. buy him breakfast. <br />
<br />
somewhere earlier in the week i had read somewhere, coffee might be the only taste they get on their lips all day. <br />
<br />
so i went into the store, bought him some fruit and coffee and took it up to him. <br />
he had such beautiful blue eyes. but his face showed signs of a lifetime of struggle and pain. <br />
before accepting the coffee and fruit, he pulled out of his coat and small body spray and handed it to me. <br />
<br />
'it's for women, it's for you. take it.' he said. <br />
<br />
as i left, i thought of how he must have wanted to offer something in exchange of what was being given to him. because if we accept something without exchanging something, it feels to good to be true. and i thought to myself, i should have told him he didn't have to give me anything. that grace to him was free. and then. boom.<br />
<br />
God reminded me. Grace is free. <br />
when we come to Him and ask forgiveness, because of grace, it is given. <br />
no need to exchange anything for it. <br />
no need to beat ourselves up over a lost temper and not being a great parent that morning. <br />
no need to feel like we'll never measure up. <br />
<br />
when He offers grace, it's free for taking. just free. no questions asked. <br />
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oh how my heart swelled and the tears flowed. <br />
<br />
amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saves daily a wretched like me. <br />
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XOXO</div>
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LEAH</div>
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-19328043150967677402014-09-22T09:37:00.000-05:002014-09-22T09:39:48.295-05:00on being mom. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<br />
well life's just flying by...again.<br />
<br />
it's a good life. busy as heck. but a good life.<br />
<br />
thinking that life was going to somehow slow down once the kids were back in school, was definitely just a wish upon a star i guess.<br />
it's probably gotten much busier.<br />
<br />
because, i mean the housework doesn't stop, my job cannot be placed on hold, my ministry is still going on, but on top of it all, now there is an immense amount of paperwork to be signed, supplies to still be bought as new projects come up, children to be picked up at different times because of different schools and activities, homework to be checked, kids to get to bed,...<br />
<br />
if you felt a tad exhausted from that run on sentence, then you can probably catch a glimpse of the busyness around here and may i say, exhaustion.<br />
<br />
but you know what?<br />
<br />
i like it.<br />
<br />
no, i haven't lost my marbles. at least not yet. but sometime in the last two weeks i had an epiphany of sorts.<br />
<br />
as i was making various phone calls to the school nurse, my pediatrician's office, running around to get some paperwork signed, and getting last minute supplies, i realized: i'm needed. i'm depended on.<br />
<br />
my kids rely on me to get these things done.<br />
dad works full time, but even then, doesn't mom usually get this privilege?<br />
<br />
as their mom, they KNOW they can count on me to run around like a chicken with its head cut off for them. to make sure they can get enrolled in athletics. to make sure they can join an after school program without worrying if someone will be there to pick them up, or to help them in that tricky math problem.<br />
<br />
sure it may be exhausting at times. Lord knows that i don't always have a big ol smile on my face as i'm running to the store because someone forgot to tell me they needed something. BUT to know that they know that i'm mom and they can count on me, it's priceless to me.<br />
<br />
so the rest of the year may never really slow down, because then again, what mom does?<br />
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XOXO, </div>
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LEAH<br />
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-58394856737163365262014-09-08T11:12:00.004-05:002014-09-08T11:30:32.796-05:00out with the old, we say!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/newname_zps2c2ec121.jpg.html" target="_blank"></a><br /></div>
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surprise, surprise! </div>
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i've changed my name friends. 'tis one of the reasons i kinda have been mia from blogging and social media. </div>
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i'm sure every blogger will get to some kind of crossroad when it comes to their online identity or their brand, and i came to mine. </div>
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beautifully molded for me represented where i was in the beginning of this blog journey and my spiritual life. </div>
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i wanted to be molded, i NEEDED to be molded by the Lord. </div>
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by no means does this mean i am entirely molded as we are constantly being perfected by Him to reflect His heart, however where i am now, i need to be reminded that He molds me because I am loved. </div>
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He molds me, refines me, works in me, gives me beautiful blessings <strong>for love of me, of us.</strong></div>
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and for love of Him, I want to share my love for His Word, my family, my passions to give Him glory. </div>
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i'm pretty excited to embark in this new journey and i'd be smiling a lot more if it wasn't for the darn benadryl i took this morning that is making my body beg for a three hour nap!! </div>
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i've also changed my handle on all the social media i use. you know instagram was first! ha. </div>
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so here we go, let's get this party started!<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #999999; font-size: large;">xoxo, leah</span></strong> </div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/12836407/?claim=5bv55r5dzha">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-10510185765012963762014-08-12T10:00:00.001-05:002014-09-05T13:36:35.181-05:00summer days.<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/SUMMER_zpsc9d05879.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo SUMMER_zpsc9d05879.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/SUMMER_zpsc9d05879.jpg" height="479" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
today i saw on someone's ig, a little girl holding up her backpack for the first day of school. <br />
could it be? <br />
yes, summer is slowly starting to come to an end!<br />
<br />
it went by so quickly, but then again, doesn't it always?<br />
<br />
this summer was the no plan summer. we planned nothing. no vacation, no trips, no activities. <br />
i kept on telling myself each week, i would finally get around to doing some things from my boards on pinterest. and one or two things did get done, but that was about it. <br />
we just winged it. <br />
grandma's during the day. <br />
home in the evening with a little game here and there. church on weekends. and sunday funday every so often, which mostly constisted of pool time and/or walking around the city. <br />
<br />
even though there was nothing fancy planned, i gotta say i feel like i enjoyed my kids more this summer. maybe its the sense that comes with getting older that everyday is truly a blessing. fun activities or not. <br />
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i think it's safe to say with kids back in school and a sense of routine coming back, i might be using this little space a lot more. <br />
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what have you been up to?Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-58361845897022885382014-08-11T10:46:00.002-05:002014-08-11T10:46:33.940-05:00thirty three. <br />
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<br />
i met my husband when he was nineteen, almost to be twenty. <br />
and this weekend we celebrated his thirty third birthday. <br />
<br />
we had such a good time with friends and family.<br />
we met up at this Spanish restaurant that one of his friends had recommended. it was so delicious. they had various tapas, which are small dishes to be enjoyed with drinks. <br />
think of like a wine tasting with cheeses, but this was with savory dishes. <br />
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there were albondigas, lamb, goat cheese with honey, seared tuna with watermelon. it was deee- liccious! i was one happy girl to be next to my husband and filling up my belly!<br />
as the waiter came by bringing more and more tapas that we could all sample, we lost count in the midst of good conversation and laughs. <br />
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word of advice, when at this type of place, don't lose count. always be counting otherwise you'll end up with a $600 bill! #where'sthecovermyeyesmonkeyemojiwhenyouneedone<br />
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but all in all, he felt the love. our friends are good ones, i tell ya. <br />
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the rest of the weekend was great too. church, date night, celebrating with my parents, and pool time on sunday. i was ready to come into work this morning, but now? i'm ready to go home! <br />
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what did your weekend look like?<br />
<br />
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-32815151511871979732014-07-30T12:47:00.000-05:002014-07-30T12:47:37.597-05:00exploring austin<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/atx_zpsd54f03b3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo atx_zpsd54f03b3.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/atx_zpsd54f03b3.jpg" /></a><br />
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i live in a great city. <br />
we moved to austin, when my oldest was just two months old from houston and my other two were born here. so essentially, i consider our family austinites. <br />
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but we're not nearly as austin as i'd like us to be. it might be particularly my fault, as being an introvert comes with being a homebody too and it also might be that as they were younger, carrying around diaper bags, and various changes of clothing didn't seem appealing. <br />
now though, the cards have changed. no diapers, no bottles, no strollers. <br />
we can just at the last minute decide to go and walk around the city withliterally no planning, and i'm loving it this new season. <br />
<br />
so this past sunday, we just got up and went. went down to amy's ice cream, sat in their little set up they have just enjoying our treat and trying to ignore the scorching sun. <br />
then we just walked with no plan, no route. went down to town lake and walked some more. <br />
<br />
although like i said, the sun was brutal, we enjoyed being out there. exploring, enjoying, just passing the time. <br />
then we came to this little part of town that you'd miss if you just drive through it, but a little quiet neighborhood of shops and eateries. <br />
a few of them had bowls of water outside their door for dogs walking with their owners to quench their thirst. i mean, is that the cutest! <br />
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<br />
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/atx1_zps2cf92f84.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo atx1_zps2cf92f84.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/atx1_zps2cf92f84.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/atx2_zps7d955b39.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo atx2_zps7d955b39.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/atx2_zps7d955b39.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/atx3_zps6012b74a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo atx3_zps6012b74a.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/atx3_zps6012b74a.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/atx4_zpsb071a1cb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo atx4_zpsb071a1cb.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/atx4_zpsb071a1cb.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/atx5_zpse2696557.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo atx5_zpse2696557.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/atx5_zpse2696557.jpg" /></a><br />
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there's so much more to do in this city and i'm determined to explore more of it. i foresee more photos of our adventures soon! <br />
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do you explore your city pretty well? what has been your favorite place to see?<br />
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-80642612700361435022014-07-14T09:40:00.000-05:002014-07-14T10:31:31.408-05:00summer eats: apple 'cookies'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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well summer is definitely in full swing around here. yesterday we hit our first day with triple digits. Lord, help us. </div>
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that will mean less time outside and more time indoors, which leads to more snacking. </div>
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or is it only in my home?</div>
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and with the temperatures being so high, we crave something fresh and yummy.</div>
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i'm not one to crave baked goods in the summer. leave that for sweater weather with a good cup of hot cocoa. </div>
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now i won't take credit for these. i saw them on<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/9499849189347495/" target="_blank"> pinterest</a>, of course. </div>
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seeing that i had most ingredients in my home already, we gave it a whirl. and honestly, these were so yummy and just sweet enough to give any sweet tooth craving a good punch. </div>
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/applecookies_zpsd02acf1d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo applecookies_zpsd02acf1d.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/applecookies_zpsd02acf1d.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
well summer is definitely in full swing around here. yesterday we hit our first day with triple digits. Lord, help us. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
that will mean less time outside and more time indoors, which leads to more snacking. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
or is it only in my home?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
and with the temperatures being so high, we crave something fresh and yummy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
i'm not one to crave baked goods in the summer. leave that for sweater weather with a good cup of hot cocoa. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
now i won't take credit for these. i saw them on pinterest, of course. </div>
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seeing that i had most ingredients in my home already, we gave it a whirl. and honestly, these were so yummy and just sweet enough to give any sweet tooth craving a good punch. </div>
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/applecookies2_zpsc6bd18cf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo applecookies2_zpsc6bd18cf.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/applecookies2_zpsc6bd18cf.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a><br />
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you'll need the above. simply spread peanut/almond butter on the apple slices, and then top with raisins and coconut. <br />
you can do as many or as little toppings as you like! my daughter tried to even do mini marshmallows. nice try little one, nice try. <br />
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what snacks has your crew been snacking on this summer?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBT0P_7DFiad4sdvH2jo9rSI_qAQ4aiZSjEID5Oe6pE_VhoiduD-Ez9N7u5e_aJMMNj5DWAQLeUVtMGxpty4GWhNV6yqRvYy43hMN5wgcgS0tUff1ZIOZVFuEJj6OoqnbT9JUgRkIt9Q/s1600/sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBT0P_7DFiad4sdvH2jo9rSI_qAQ4aiZSjEID5Oe6pE_VhoiduD-Ez9N7u5e_aJMMNj5DWAQLeUVtMGxpty4GWhNV6yqRvYy43hMN5wgcgS0tUff1ZIOZVFuEJj6OoqnbT9JUgRkIt9Q/s1600/sign.jpg" /></a></div>
Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-64010820446348644482014-06-30T11:39:00.001-05:002014-06-30T11:39:44.702-05:00update from my desk. <a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/morning_zps8e6acdf4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo morning_zps8e6acdf4.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/morning_zps8e6acdf4.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a>
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<br />
well hey, happy monday to you!<br />
<br />
you ready for some rambling thoughts from me today? because be forewarned, i'm writing this on a whim. just to check in, ya know. <br />
that way this space doesn't collect cobwebs and dust. <br />
<br />
so since my last check in, i kinda went mia again. believe me, i had every intention of picking up the pace and start writing, but can i just tell you, this summer has been so hard to adjust to! <br />
<br />
and i'm kind of bummed about it, because i was really, really looking forward to summer but i find myself at times looking forward to fall. maybe because my mood lately matches the season of fall. i don't know. <br />
<br />
anyway, when the day ends and my thoughts gravitate to this little space, i begin to think again on the purpose of it. <br />
don't get me wrong, i love blogging and connecting with so many of you. but lately, i haven't felt that umph. you know? <br />
i've felt like i don't have really anything worth sharing, because i'm sure my never ending sweeping the dining room and piles and piles of laundry are not what you are dying to read about, since you have your own. <br />
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all of us have our own. <br />
<br />
yet, that reminds me of the purpose of this space. i remember the reason i started this space was to share my stories. even of the endless piles of laudry ones. because in the thick of my own, i need encouragement. <br />
<br />
one of the things i've found when i share a message at church, is that i'm not only sharing it with the congregation to minister to them, but it also ministers me. every. time. so why would sharing my stories here be any different. even if i'm the one living them, i will find encouragement from it. writing them out sometimes does that. <br />
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and that's what i want to receive from here. my want is to be able to encourage women in the middle of their own laundry piles, knowing that i, being far from perfect, need encouragement as well. <br />
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i will never claim to know everything because i don't. i'm still trying to figure out myself. but if i can do that while making some kind of difference, then i'll make the attempt to still write and share. <br />
even if it's once a week, although i'll try to pop in here more often than that. <br />
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so, on that note, how has your summer been?<br />
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<br />Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-46440887676773315842014-06-18T11:38:00.003-05:002014-06-18T11:38:33.408-05:00sweet motherhood: the series recap. <div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/ABM_1396891740_zpstzihfi3s.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo ABM_1396891740_zpstzihfi3s.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/ABM_1396891740_zpstzihfi3s.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a>
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you may remember the <a href="http://moldedme.blogspot.com/search/label/sweet%20motherhood" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">sweet motherhood series</span></a> that wrapped up here a few weeks ago. <br />
<br />
i had the pleasure of having sweet mothers share their thoughts on motherhood and conducted a little interview with each of them. let me tell you, i loved it. <br />
i'm not exaggerating when i say, each week as i received a new post it blessed my heart. <br />
<br />
if i can tell you a little secret, i've never considered myself good at this mom gig. i've had my fair share of mom fail moments times three. moments in which i've thought, okay there they will hate me forever. <br />
and countless moments where i've cried rivers asking God for help as i cannot do it, i just can't!<br />
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i can be a bit dramatic sometimes. <br />
<br />
but in all seriousness, motherhood can feel like that at times. exhausting, frustrating and lonely. <br />
some days may seem like going into a battlefield. some days may feel like we've failed. heck some days we just want to eat a chocolate bar without sharing for crying out loud! <br />
<br />
which is why this series really blessed me. not only did i realize that i'm not one bit alone. not only because mothers everywhere struggle the same, but also because there is a lot of Grace that can sustain us. <br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: #e06666;">'But you are doing a great work! Kingdom work! Raise
your babies, love your babies, teach your babies, day in and day out. God will
sustain you and give you grace, oh so much grace, to keep on going despite your
shortcomings.' -<strong> </strong><a href="http://afamilyofwolfes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cccccc;">andrea wolfe</span></a></span></span></div>
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that encourages me! this motherhood gig is kingdom work. it's not just another mundane task that we have to wake up to. it's Kingdom work!</div>
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what we do is for the long run. what we do with them has a bigger impact that we could imagine. </div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: small;">My vision in parenting him is for the long haul. I'm not only
trying to raise a good kid, but more so an amazing man. –<strong> </strong><a href="http://shannon-nichole.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">shannon</span></a><span style="color: #999999;"> quiqley</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit; font-size: 10pt;"><strong><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"></span></strong></span> </div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: #e06666;">Be present and in the now...all most kids really want
is your time...so give it to them...they will be grown and gone before you know
it.</span> - <a href="http://treeofolive.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">christina schergen</span></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span> </div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">and although that might sound scary, knowing that what we do has a great impact, it isn't. when we come to realize that the immense love we have for our kiddos, does not compare to the love He has for them, and for us mamas, it places a comfort on my heart. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">He sees our fears for them, our dreams for them. He sees the feeling of falling short as mothers and He fills it while we do the only thing we can do.. cling on to Him. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;"></span></span></span> </div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #e06666;">While I have the privilege of caring for her and
loving her imperfectly but constantly, I am humbled by the realization that a
parent's love for their child(ren) is but a mere shadow of God's deep and
perfect love for Christ.</span> – <a href="http://ahthatslove.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">helen hong</span></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #e06666;">Being a mom goes way beyond caring for a child.
Through motherhood I've come to truly understand God's love for us</span>. – <a href="http://cinsarah.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">cindy medrano</span></a> </span></span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: small;">As she grows, I pray that she knows <i>Whose </i>she
is - <a href="http://seventeenperth.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">erika</span> </a></span></span></div>
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we, mothers sometimes beat ourselves up more than we should. in fact we shouldn't beat ourselves up. whatever we are doing is good work, because honestly as long as we love our children with all our heart and pray the best for them, it will show. and they will know. </span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: small;">Motherhood comes in all shapes and sizes. We have
to stop comparing and start embracing each other and where we are at.</span> – <a href="http://discoverystreet.net/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">ruthy taylor</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="color: #e06666;">We
tend to assume these "supermoms" have some kind of secret to
motherhood that we don't have. We are so wrong. There's not one mom in the
world who doesn't have struggles.</span> –<span style="color: #999999;"> </span><a href="http://applesofgoldblog.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">becky haight</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">we're all in it together, the struggles, the worries, the tickles, the cuddles, the ever growing pile of laundry. it's sweet, this motherhood. in the bigger picture it is sweet and we got this. mamas, we got this.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">#momyougotdis</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">a huge thank you to all the beautiful ladies that participated in this series! i love your heart! </span></div>
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-36529825258223388912014-06-16T10:32:00.001-05:002014-06-16T10:32:25.656-05:00a little M.I.A<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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well hey everybody!<br />
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it's good to be back on this little space after being m.i.a for a little bit.<br />
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so how's it going for you lately friend? summer is in full swing here and i'm trying to adjust to it. <br />
which is partly the reason why i've stayed off this space. <br />
not really knowing what to share. <br />
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looking back through some of my posts i saw lots of heart. lots of exposing the hardships my family was going through during those dreary winter months. <br />
thankfully, some of those hardships are gone. hallelujah! but it almost feels weird without them...<br />
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they were of character building, of tear filled prayers and now that they've been answered, i'm kind of standing in this awkward position adjusting to this new season. <br />
isn't that weird? it seems like we were on our knees for so long that now it seems strange to get up and dance. <br />
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nonetheless, i'm happy to see the Lord's blessings, to see His goodness. <br />
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other than trying to awkwardly adjust to the season, we've been enjoying the beautiful weather which up to this point has been bearable heat. i'm afraid it may not last for much longer as we've already been hitting mid nineties! but until we can, we will. <br />
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well, i'm hoping i can get back on the wagon this week. i've got a few things in mind i wanna talk about, including something exciting that's been brewing on my mind. <br />
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how have you been doing? <br />
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-30003164383394939372014-05-29T09:37:00.004-05:002014-06-16T13:29:10.254-05:00Sweet Motherhood: Helen Hong <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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so sweet, encouraging and a creative mind is how i would describe helen. she is one incredibly sweet mama, and i'm so happy to have connected with her. </div>
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the way she loves on her little family is so encouraging, and this girl can do party decor in the most charming way. </div>
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today i have the pleasure of having her here while she shares her thoughts on motherhood.</div>
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<a href="http://ahthatslove.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">blog</span></a><span style="color: #e06666;"> / </span><a href="http://instagram.com/mrshelenhong" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">instagram </span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">helen, tell us a little bit of your story and who you are a mom to?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;">I'm Helen, a sinner saved by grace since 2005 who attempts, by God's grace, to find her ultimate joy in knowing Him. I met my husband, Alex, at church that same year. I was 17 and he was 18. After becoming friends and serving alongside one another for years, I never fathomed that we'd be anything more. God had other (always better) plans: we began dating in 2010 and got married in 2012. God constantly reveals to me His great love for His church through the covenant of marriage. Life with Alex has been so sweet, which only became sweeter upon the birth of our daughter, Serene Joy, in 2013. Now we're a beyond blessed little family of three, and eight month old Serene has changed our lives in the most joyful way!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">motherhood isn't always what we expect, what about motherhood surprised you or has been different than what you expected it to be?</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;">Once Serene entered the world and was put into my arms, the love that I had for her that began when we discovered she was being fearfully and wonderfully formed in my womb, became ever-growing, fiercer, more powerful, and heart-bursting by the day. While I have the privilege of caring for her and loving her imperfectly but constantly, I am humbled by the realization that a parent's love for their child(ren) is but a mere shadow of God's deep and perfect love for Christ. I could not have understood this as tangibly before I became a parent. I am now more in awe of God's great love for us that He would give up His beloved Son for us who are so undeserving, because, let's face it - I can hardly leave Serene with a baby-sitter without stressing!</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"> <span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">being a mom is hard work, isn't it? but always rewarding. what do you enjoy most about motherhood?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;">After graduating from college, I've worked in the entertainment industry, as a classroom teacher, and now in education non-profit. I am convinced for myself that none of these jobs have been as rewarding as motherhood. Trusting in what God says in His Word that being my husband's helper and being my daughter's mother is my highest calling makes motherhood, on the whole, rewarding beyond compare. Since I currently work full-time, I cherish coming home to my sweet daughter most, whose already joyful disposition reaches new heights whenever I do. She grins madly, giggles gleefully, lunges towards me forcefully, and kicks her legs wildly. I cherish moments with her when I'm able to be home, through the sweet and the hard moments. Even though I fail to always rejoice in the hard moments, and instead, give in to impatience, anxiety, and anger, God uses motherhood to refine me in ways that I need. Which is why my aspiration is to be a stay-at-home mama someday (soon, Lord-willing)!</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">let's talk balance. how do you find balance in tending to your daughter and also caring for yourself emotionally and physically? </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><div style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I'm a proponent of a consistent bedtime routine, not only for Serene's well-being, but also for Alex's and my emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Serene knows what to expect once <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_238983173" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">8pm</span></span> hits, and once she gets bath time, story time, prayer time, and bedtime nursing, she goes down for a good night's rest (most of the time). Then Alex and I get to unwind, which includes spending quality time together, and spending quality time with the Lord individually and together before going to bed ourselves. We also set aside an afternoon or evening during the week reserved for family time. We'll usually go out for a meal or go on a mini adventure, with the aim to spend quality time together as a family. We tend to get so busy and frazzled during the everyday that family time protects and fosters our love and priority for one another.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;"> <span style="color: #e06666;">as moms we strive to teach and show our children lessons shaping them as they grow, however, what is the one thing that you would want your children to grab on to and never forget?</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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My prayer is for Serene to know Christ and to make Him her ultimate source of unsurpassed joy. To find joy in who He is through His word. To find joy in what He has done for her on the cross. To find joy in how He can use her to make Him known for the joy of all peoples and for His glory. <br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">helen, mothers need encouragement always. what words of wisdom or encouragement would you offer to other moms?</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;">As moms, we feel like we have to do it all and do it well, which is absolutely not true. When these feelings of inadequacy arise, they point us to our need for the Savior, who grants us the strength and grace we need to raise our little one(s). Our adequacy is in Christ, and our child(ren) ought to see that in the way we live our lives and care for them. At the end of the day, God is the ultimate, perfect heavenly Father who has our child(ren)'s lives in His sovereign hands, and we are privileged that He is entrusting them to our care for the time being.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<em>'I am humbled by the realization that a parent's love for their child(ren) is but a mere shadow of God's deep and perfect love for Christ.'</em> <br />
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okay, that hit home in the best way. how wonderful to be reminded that God's love for His son, for us and our children will always greatly surpass the way we love. <br />
sooo thankful for that!<br />
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you can find helen's writing and her beautiful photos at her blog or through instagram: @mrshelenhong. <br />
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<br />Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-52067185849334803832014-05-22T09:22:00.005-05:002014-05-22T09:22:54.091-05:00Sweet Motherhood: Shannon Nichole<br />
today i have the pleasure of having a beautiful friend for this series. it's hard to say, how long i've known her, but i want to say it's been almost two years. i met shannon through blogging and i've loved connecting with her on motherhood, marriage, faith, and everyday life. her story is a beautiful one, and i'd encourage you visit her space (which she just revamped and looks gorgeous!), and get to know her. you can thank me later. <br />
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i asked shannon to share her thoughts on what motherhood means to her, and when she sent me her piece...let's just say, get your tissues out ladies. <br />
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/SHANNON_zps9445b25d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo SHANNON_zps9445b25d.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/SHANNON_zps9445b25d.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.shannon-nichole.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> / <a href="http://instagram.com/_shannon_nichole_" target="_blank">instagram</a> / <a href="http://twitter.com/shannonNicblog" target="_blank">twitter </a>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As moms we are overwhelmingly blessed with nearly countless special, bonding, tender, proud and if we're honest hard times with our children. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Within all those special times we all have those few really,</span><i style="font-family: inherit;"> really....REALLY </i><span style="font-family: inherit;">special ones. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you were to ask me what the most special time with my child was...immediately you'd see my face light up, and while I'd share with you that there obviously have been many, I'd tell you that the </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">most</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> special day...the one that makes my heart swell, is one that my son and I have not yet technically lived.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm a mom to one incredible, big hearted, clever and amazing nine year old not so little boy. . </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As a mom, I've always looked at my son, not only for who he is today...but who he will be in the future, as an adult. My vision in parenting him is for the long haul. I'm not only trying to raise a good kid, but more so an amazing man.</span> A man that will one day fall in love and marry an exceptional woman.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Love is a big topic in my house. It's basically the center of the way I try to guide our lives. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Numerous conversations are always rerouted back to love, and loving <i>well. </i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We love each other because he loved us first.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>1 John 4:19</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While there is on occasion an eye roll that I'm talking about love</span><i style="font-family: inherit;"> yet</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> again...I continue to do it anyway. We talk about love not as a wimpy, lovey dovey subject but one of great power. Powerful people love people. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;">The primary reason Jesus died for us.....love. He loved us <b>T-H-A-T</b> much. At the end of the day, he chose us, over himself. That's a powerful and selfless love. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b>Ephesians 5:2</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One of the biggest examples of walking this love the way Jesus did...marriage</span></span></div>
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So with that....what will be my most cherished memory?</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The day my son will marry his wife.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Why? </span><u style="font-family: inherit;">Why</u><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><i style="font-family: inherit;"><u>this</u></i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><u style="font-family: inherit;">moment</u><span style="font-family: inherit;">?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;">On this day I will watch my son devote himself to loving someone for the rest of his life in the loving and selfless way that Jesus did for us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">This is the day that I'll watch my son vow, before God to voluntarily will lay down</span><i style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"> his</i><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"> life for another, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">in the name of loving well. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">There is <b>no</b> <b>greater love</b> than to lay down one's life for one's friends. <b>John 15:13</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;">When you live your life out of that type of love, something amazing happens. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><i>You</i> change. <i>Your</i> relationships change. You never lose when you love this way. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;">If you cling to <i>your</i> life, you will lose it; but if you give up <i>your</i> life for me, <i>you will</i> find it.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small; line-height: 20px; text-align: justify;"><b>Matthew 10:39</b></span></div>
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The amount of respect I will gain for my Jay, watching this moment of time will be immense. </div>
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His marriage signifies his selfless heart. </div>
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He and I will both be aware that at times in his life, this choice could quite possibly be the hardest one of his whole life to walk out. Yet he vows anyway. </div>
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He vows to honor his wife and place her before himself. </div>
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He vows to love like Jesus.</div>
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And to see this...my heart will be incredibly proud. Proud that the incredible, big hearted, clever and amazing young boy that currently rolls his eyes when we talk about love, has ultimately chosen to <i>stand</i> for it in such a powerful way. </div>
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this puts motherhood in a whole new perspective, huh? i pray that my sons will also grow up to be men of the Lord, laying their life down for others and for their future wife. *tear*</div>
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you can read more of Shannon through her <a href="http://www.shannnon-nichole.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>, or follow her through instagram: _shannon_nichole_</div>
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-37900957034895608152014-05-15T08:47:00.002-05:002014-05-15T08:47:34.023-05:00Sweet Motherhood: Erika from Seventeen Perth<div style="text-align: center;">
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i met erika, i want to say, almost a year ago, if not more. i liked her instantly. this girl is super sweet and so encouraging to me and when i heard she was expecting, i was so thrilled for her. <br />
today she is sharing her thoughts on her new role as a mother. if you don't know her, please get to. she's pretty great!<br />
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now here's erika:<br />
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/erika_zps31882c0f.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo erika_zps31882c0f.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/erika_zps31882c0f.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://seventeenperth.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">blog</span></a><span style="color: #e06666;">/ </span><a href="http://instagram.com/e_lynch3" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">instagram</span></a>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">erika, tell us a little bit of your story and who you are a mom to?</span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;">I am a new mom to a beautiful baby girl. Little E was born in February of this year! My husband and I waited until our thirties to have children, so we are beyond blessed and excited to welcome this little girl into the world!<br /><br />My whole life, becoming a mother is definitely something that I looked forward to. After I held her in my arms for the first time, that instant wave of emotion and love came over me and life as I knew it would never be the same. (as cliche as that is--it could not be more true!). I can honestly say it is <i>way</i> more than I ever anticipated in the best of ways. Everyone told me I would love her more than I could imagine, but it was definitely something I could not fully comprehend until I experienced it myself.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">motherhood isn't always what we expect, what about motherhood surprised you or has been different than what you expected it to be?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Being a mom is fulfilling yet hard!! I never expected it to be easy, but the constant questioning of myself was shocking! I've always been pretty confident in my decision making abilities, but the understanding of the impact I have on her life <strike>was</strike> is overwhelming. (So thankful for God's grace!) And <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">thankful for all the mommas that surround me for the help, advice, guidance and shoulders to lean on as only other mommas can understand. Community is such an invaluable tool! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #e06666;">being a mom is hard work, isn't it? but always rewarding. what do you enjoy most about motherhood?</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">How can I decide on one thing? I love it ALL!. The sweet, quiet moments stand out the strongest; specifically those moments when it is just me and her, and she wants to be snuggled or when she breaks out into a full on grin. I can't imagine anything better in the world. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">let's talk balance. how do you find balance in tending to your daughter and also caring for yourself emotionally and physically? </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">After about 2 1/2 weeks, I realized I needed to do something for myself. As an avid runner before I got pregnant (and partially while pregnant--until I got an asthma induced by pregnancy diagnosis), it was time to hit the pavement again.<br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Even though I wasn't "cleared" for running just yet, I began walking an hour about 4 times a week leaving little E at home with my husband. I needed a little time to turn on some music, soak up the sun and let nature rejuvenate me. </span></span></span><br />
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<b style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>Nature</i></b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> i</span><i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>s food for my soul.</b></i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i> <b>More importantly, it is where I connect with God the most. </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"> <span style="color: #e06666;">as moms we strive to teach and show our children lessons shaping them as they grow, however, what is the one thing that you would want your children to grab on to and never forget?</span></span></span></span></span><br />
As she grows, I pray that she knows <i>Whose </i>she is. I pray that she knows she is perfectly imperfect in every way and made for a specific purpose; to have confidence in herself always! My hope is that she knows Who to listen to and Who to follow and that her dad and I be good role models in Trusting Him. And most importantly and above all else I pray she trusts her Heavenly Father more than anything else in this world.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;">erika, mothers need encouragement always. what words of wisdom or encouragement would you offer to other moms?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As a newbie mom: </span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Ask for help! (Don't be afraid to ask for help and to ask questions!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Don't feel like you have to have all the answers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Don't feel like there is *one* right way to do things! Think out of the box. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Seek first the Kingdom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Encourage other moms. We all struggle at times! It is encouraging to hear others struggles and to provide encouragement and love during those times. </span></div>
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ah yes, those sweet quiet moments with the babes is surely one of the sweetest moments. and i agree with nature being food for the soul. erika takes wonderful photos of nature, which you can find on her blog and/or by following through instagram @e_lynch3<br />
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<br />Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-85701375005038668962014-05-13T08:45:00.000-05:002014-05-13T08:57:54.366-05:00mother's day.<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/20140511_164352_zps89uqqdkj.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20140511_164352_zps89uqqdkj.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/20140511_164352_zps89uqqdkj.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a>
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/20140511_164304_zpsfklsgdbc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20140511_164304_zpsfklsgdbc.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/20140511_164304_zpsfklsgdbc.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a>
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/20140511_172326_zpsocsb91kl.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 20140511_172326_zpsocsb91kl.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/20140511_172326_zpsocsb91kl.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a>
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so i thought i would stop by this space of mine, that i've been neglecting over the past few weeks. <br />
honestly, it hasn't been my intention. i love blogging, but it has somehow taken a back seat for the moment as i try to be more present at home and placing my time on other things that have taken priority. <br />
it's funny, because i've noticed the same among other bloggers i love. i guess life has a way of doing that, huh?<br />
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while i'm here i just wanted to share my mother's day. it was a sweet one and my littlest one said happy mother's day like twenty times throughout the day, it was the sweetest. <br />
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my mother came over for breakfast and the kiddos made her some cards. on one of the cards my daughter made her she thanked her for being like a mother to her as well. i loved that. <br />
my mom has always been there and literally has raised my kids alongside me. to know my children don't view her as a grandmother only, but as a mom as well, really is such a blessing to me. <br />
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after they left, i napped for a few hours, which if you know me, i like my sleep. however, i always feel like i wasted hours of the day if i take naps, so i try not to. i don't know what it is though, sunday i was so tired! <br />
my daughter set out to pamper her mama. she grabbed my face mask and applied it on my face. gave me her own version of a back massage with karate chops down my back, and insisted on doing my make up. as a girl, she truly knows what a girl needs to feel pampered! <br />
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finally in the afternoon, we went out for dinner. i love our family dinners. i love seeing my family around the table, chatting, eating endless bowls of chips, and just enjoying each other. <br />
this motherhood gig, it's never really come easy for me. i've struggled, felt guilty at not doing it right, felt like pulling my hair out on numerous occasions, and felt i was truly screwing things up.<br />
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but it's in those moments, when i see their smiles and i realize they truly are happy kids, and they truly do feel loved, that i am reassured that it's okay. i'm doing an okay job which is filled with God's grace. otherwise i would've gone crazy by now! haha. <br />
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how was your mother's day?<br />
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<br />Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-81712969900988784732014-05-09T09:08:00.003-05:002014-05-09T09:08:50.132-05:00on my playlist. <a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/isaacbeach_zps67c538bc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo isaacbeach_zps67c538bc.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/isaacbeach_zps67c538bc.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a><br />
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bethel music on repeat. lyrics from it is well. </div>
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grander earth has quaked before<br />
moved by the sound of His voice<br />
seas that are shaken and stirred<br />
can be calmed and broken for my regard<br />
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and through it all, through it all<br />
my eyes are on you<br />
and through it all, through it all <br />
it is well<br />
and through it all, through it all<br />
my eyes are on you<br />
and it is well<br />
with me<br />
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far be it from me to not believe<br />
even when my eyes can't see<br />
and this mountain that's in front of me<br />
will be thrown into the midst of the sea<br />
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and through it all, through it all<br />
my eyes are on you<br />
and through it all, through it all <br />
it is well<br />
and through it all, through it all<br />
my eyes are on you<br />
and it is well<br />
with me<br />
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so let go my soul and trust in Him<br />
the waves and wind still know His name<br />
so let go my soul and trust in Him<br />
the waves and wind still know His name.<br />
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and it is well with my soul<br />
and it is well with my soul<br />
and it is well with my soul<br />
it is well with my soul!<br />
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i really love some good worship music and this album is blessing me so much. it is the you make me brave album, and whoa, it is speaking to me loudly and clearly. </div>
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trust me on this one. it is good!</div>
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what album are you loving right now?</div>
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<br />Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-54443300285091621172014-05-08T08:43:00.000-05:002014-05-08T08:43:03.357-05:00Sweet Motherhood: Ruthy Taylor<div style="text-align: center;">
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i gotta say, this motherhood series has been blessing me tons. i've loved reading about all of these mothers and their take on motherhood, and today i have the pleasure of introducing ruthy from <a href="http://discoverystreet.net/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">discovery street</span></a>. ruthy is such a sweet mom and i have loved getting to connect with her and reading her blog, in which she shares life with her husband and little one, parker penny. don't you just love that name? <br />
and she lives in the PNW which gives her extra cool points, since i love that place of the country! <br />
here's what ruthy shared with us:</div>
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/ruthy_zps8e80621d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo ruthy_zps8e80621d.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/ruthy_zps8e80621d.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://discoverystreet.net/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cccccc;">blog</span></a><span style="color: #cccccc;"> / </span><a href="http://instagram.com/discoverystreet" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cccccc;">instagram </span></a><span style="color: #cccccc;">/ </span><a href="https://twitter.com/DiscoveryStreet" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cccccc;">twitter</span></a><span style="color: #cccccc;"> / </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/discoverystreetblog" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cccccc;">facebook</span></a>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">ruthy, tell us a little bit of your story and who you are a mom to?</span><br />
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I'm Ruthy, mama to my 20 month old daughter Parker Penny and due with another girl this summer. I became a mother a little later in life, I had my daughter when I was 34. Becoming a mom was never a lifelong dream, I wasn't sure if I actually wanted kids. Those who know me well think it's crazy I'm pregnant with my second!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">motherhood isn't always what we expect, what about motherhood surprised you or has been different than what you expected it to be?</span><br />
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I was surprised at how much I enjoyed motherhood in the beginning. I read all the horror stories and was mentally prepared to go to battle so to speak. Although my daughter was born with hip dysplasia which made the first few months exceptionally challenging and emotional, I was enamored with motherhood. The toddler stage however, yeah, well I'm not so enamored with this stage. It's a daily struggle!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"> <span style="color: #e06666;">being a mom is hard work, isn't it? but always rewarding. what do you enjoy most about motherhood?</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;">Honestly, it's so freaking hard. But I think God renews my spirit every time I see my daughter delight in something. Whether it's bubbles, an animal at the zoo, throwing rocks, or seeing her daddy walk through the door in the evening. Her shrieks of joy and laughter kinda make up for the tantrum and tears. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">let's talk balance. how do you find balance in tending to your daughter and also caring for yourself emotionally and physically? </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"> <span style="color: black;">Is there such a thing? I've let go of the concept. I don't think balance exists. I think there are seasons of life that are rough and seasons of life that are renewing. I'm just grateful every morning is a fresh start.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"> <span style="color: #e06666;">as moms we strive to teach and show our children lessons shaping them as they grow, however, what is the one thing that you would want your children to grab on to and never forget?</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"> <span style="color: black;">Confidence. Self doubt looms over women and prevents them from so much. I want my girls to grow up confident in who they are, which in turn will lead them to be courageous and have a voice for those less confident. I want them to stand up for what is right, speak up for themselves and for others. I desire for them to know they are daughters of the MOST HIGH KING...how can they not draw confidence and courage knowing that? </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;">ruthy, mothers need encouragement always. what words of wisdom or encouragement would you offer to other moms?</span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="color: black;">Motherhood comes in all shapes and sizes. We have to stop comparing and start embracing each other and where we are at. I quit my career to be a stay at home mom and I loved it for about a year. But I've come to the realization that I'm not really wired to be a stay at home mom. At first I felt guilty about these feelings, but the fact is I'm gifted with talents and abilities outside of the home. With another baby on the way I won't be going back to work right away, but I'm pretty sure I won't be a stay at home mom for long. And that's ok. We have to stop judging each other and start encouraging the choices mom's make that is best for their families. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;"> <span style="color: black;">ruthy, you're speaking to my heart girl. motherhood is so hard, and balance can be so difficult to find! though, thankfully we can run to God to renew our spirit, like you said. </span></span><br />
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you can find ruthy at her blog or following her on instagram too! @discoverystreet.Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-4792325426030607902014-05-07T09:44:00.000-05:002014-05-07T09:44:09.156-05:00impromtu. <br />
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this past weekend, we got away.<br />
it was so needed. life sometimes tends to grab you by the throat and suffocate you until you go a little nuts. <br />
so a vacation was desperately in need. thankfully, my husband who grabs on to the YOLO attitude more than i do. haha. <br />
we packed up and left to the beach. because it's the beach!<br />
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it was glorious. while we were there, we were the only ones. it seemed like we were on our own little private beach. and unfortunately as it was such an impromtu vacation, we weren't as prepared and made with what we brought. but nonetheless, it was heavenly. <br />
salty air, warm sand on our toes, the kids playing carefree in the waves. heaven. <br />
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/IMG_20140507_081204_zpsnbmvxy3e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_20140507_081204_zpsnbmvxy3e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/IMG_20140507_081204_zpsnbmvxy3e.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/IMG_20140507_080942_zpssjevwsd5.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_20140507_080942_zpssjevwsd5.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/IMG_20140507_080942_zpssjevwsd5.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a>
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i'm already planning for the next time we go in a few months!</div>
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what is your favorite way to spend a vacation?</div>
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-40093548818995560112014-05-01T08:31:00.000-05:002014-05-01T08:31:06.674-05:00Sweet Motherhood: Andrea Wolfe <br />
ready to meet another mom for our series and hear her thoughts? me too. <br />
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andrea from <a href="http://afamilyofwolfes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">kerubo mama</span></a> caught my attention when i came across her blog and saw her stunning photography. seriously, this girl has talent with a camera. but she's no diva photographer, this woman is so down to earth and sweet; you can tell that through her words on her blog and her photography, aiming to capture the beautiful moments of life, as such is life with kiddos. <br />
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/andrea_zpsb5e72c42.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo andrea_zpsb5e72c42.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/andrea_zpsb5e72c42.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.afamilyofwolfes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a2c4c9;">blog</span></a><span style="color: #a2c4c9;"> / </span><a href="http://instagram.com/andreakerubo" target="_blank"><span style="color: #a2c4c9;">instagram </span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">andrea, tell us a little bit of your story and who you are a mom to?</span><br />
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I met my husband, Trevor, when I was 18, he was 19. We were both working at a Bible Camp for troubled kids and teens and it was pretty much love at first sight (there's something so sexy about a Godly man gently and patiently earning the respect of a bunch of rough boys. My heart went pitter patter! :) We got married a few years later, spent a year and a half in Kenya as missionaries, and are now living back in Canada, raising our two kids. Cruz is 2 1/2, and he is sensitive and stubborn, giving me both grey hair and a melted heart all in the same breath :) Lennon is 8 months, and she is a spunky and sassy baby, so full of life and giggles. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">motherhood isn't always what we expect, what about motherhood surprised you or has been different than what you expected it to be?</span></div>
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It is so hard. I guess I knew it would be, but I did not realize how hard it would be on my heart. The amount of worry I feel when they are sick, how my heart breaks when they feel sad or afraid, how all-consuming life is when you have two little souls depending on you for everything. They changed my world in the very best and hardest of ways.</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">being a mom is hard work, isn't it? but always rewarding. what do you enjoy most about motherhood?</span></div>
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I just love how our family does such ordinary family things, but the little people make our life so much more sweet (and funny! man, kids are funny!) Sometimes I will look around the breakfast table and Cruz is doing something hilarious and making Lennon laugh and I just think, man, I love my life! It's not very glamorous but it sure is good.</div>
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And another major reward is seeing progress. As I mentioned before, my son is stubborn. Getting through to his heart and seeing him begin to understand and then change his attitude is so rewarding and makes me feel like I could conquer the world. Or at least the next oncoming tantrum ;)</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">let's talk balance. how do you find balance in tending to your daughter and also caring for yourself emotionally and physically?</span></div>
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Funny that you should ask this. If I'm being honest, this is an area that I'm really struggling in right now. These last few months have been a bit of a sleep-deprived gongshow around here, and I am wiped out. But one thing that has helped a ton is making sure that the kids get to bed early, so that I have some time to myself without constant crying and feeding and disciplining and general feelings of wanting to pull my hair out. I take the time in the evenings to edit photos with a coffee in hand, or Trevor and I will watch our current fave show on Netflix and just chill. It's a must for me!</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">as moms we strive to teach and show our children lessons shaping them as they grow, however, what is the one thing that you would want your children to grab on to and never forget?</span></div>
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Cruz's name means, "he who dwells near the cross", and this is something that I think about all the time. I want more than anything for my children to find themselves at the foot of the cross. To come to Christ, to understand His suffering <i>for them</i>, and to know that there is always hope because of the cross. To allow Christ to transform their lives and make them into world-changers for Him.</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">andrea, mothers need encouragement always. what words of wisdom or encouragement would you offer to other moms?</span><br />
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These days are hard, and I will never sugar-coat that. And you know what? Some days it just plain old sucks. And you will want out, and it is ok to admit that. But you are doing a great work! Kingdom work! Raise your babies, love your babies, teach your babies, day in and day out. God will sustain you and give you grace, oh so much grace, to keep on going despite your shortcomings. Celebrate those little moments because those really are the most important things in your life right now. And I will be here, dear sister, cheering you on!</div>
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i know those feelings of wanting to pull your hair out! but like andrea said, and i love what she said: mamas this is Kingdom work and we will be sustained!</div>
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you can find andrea's writing and photography through her <a href="http://afamilyofwolfes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> and following her on instagram, @andreakerubo</div>
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-30619250579075140162014-04-25T09:39:00.000-05:002014-04-25T09:39:27.695-05:00every story includes tears. <div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/door_zpsa3d2448c.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo door_zpsa3d2448c.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/door_zpsa3d2448c.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a>
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hannah's did. <br />
as she bowed praying for a son, tears streaming down her face, her heart aching like never before. <br />
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sarah's did.<br />
being tormented for years not being able to bear a son, and watching her maidservant conceive right away. <br />
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esther's did. <br />
bound captive in babylon from her birth most likely, not knowing another life. being faced with a decision that could very well take her life. <br />
<br />
ruth's did.<br />
losing her husband, never having borne a child. nothing left to her name.<br />
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the woman at the well.<br />
living a life that was frowned upon, possibly with no other real choice. coming to the well at the hour where others would not be there to taunt her, torment her. <br />
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all of these cried tears that we very well know. tears of bitterness, sadness, of being broken hearted. <br />
we know these tears very well, because life brings suffering, and in this life there will be trouble. <br />
in this life nothing is certain and things won't work out as we hope. and it hurts. honest to God it hurts. <br />
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yet, when we hope in Him. when we bring our heart to Him, He holds our tears. He sees, He hears and He comforts. <br />
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">'those who sow in tears, will reap in joy.' psalm 126:5</span><br />
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and He prepares the harvest that we in due time will reap with joy. <br />
<br />
hannah did.<br />
sarah did.<br />
esther did<br />
ruth did.<br />
the woman at the well did.<br />
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and you and i will. we will tell our story that includes tears in joy. tears that once blinded our sight for what was to come. though tears that He holds in His hands as part of the story. <br />
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and i will say amen to that. <br />
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-1421237915671323482014-04-24T09:39:00.001-05:002014-04-24T09:39:45.908-05:00sweet motherhood - Christina Schergen<br />
it is that time again!<br />
time i get to introduce you to another awesome mom through this series. <br />
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today's featured mom is christina from the olive tree. i found christina's blog way back and love coming back to read her words. her diy's and may or may not posts are a must read. she is hilarious and has such a beautiful heart for her kiddos!<br />
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she shared her thoughts on motherhood below:<br />
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/cristina2_zpsa9b55fa1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo cristina2_zpsa9b55fa1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/cristina2_zpsa9b55fa1.jpg" height="447" width="640" /></a>
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/cristina_zps5750111e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo cristina_zps5750111e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/cristina_zps5750111e.jpg" height="447" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://treeofolive.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">blog</span></a><span style="color: #e06666;">/</span><a href="http://instagram.com/treeofolive" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">instagram</span></a><span style="color: #e06666;">/</span><a href="http://twitter.com/treeofolivetree" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">twitter</span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">christina, tell us a little bit of your story and who you are a mom to?</span><br />
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Hello! I'm Christina and I blog over at The Olive Tree. I am mom to Elisabeth, Jude, Lyla, and baby due sometime in September. <br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">motherhood isn't always what we expect, what about motherhood surprised you or has been different than what you expected it to be?</span><br />
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I was actually was very apprehensive about having kids rather young...I was willing to wait a few more years. I enjoyed children but after about an hour or so I ready to give them back to their moms....lol. With that said I think what surprised me the most is how much I truly love and enjoy motherhood. I love all if it...the baths, the stories, the cuddles, the endless book reading, the swaddling, the tedious everyday tasks....except the laundry...I loathe all the laundry. <br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;">being a mom is hard work, isn't it? but always rewarding. what do you enjoy most about motherhood?</span><br />
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Discipline is hard work, teaching them how to treat others is hard work, teaching them how to be little respectable humans is really really really hard work, being a good example for them is hard work. I love to see the hard work pay off. I love seeing them being kind to siblings, and putting others' feelings first, respecting adults, and treating others with kindness. I love seeing them choose to willingly follow, and stay hungry for God. I love the little moments the most...that probably aren't really a big deal to someone from the outside looking in...but that leave your heart feeling full and happy. I love the sticky fingers, the excitement in their eyes around holidays, the endless hugs, the laughter and noise filled house, and suntan soaked skin in the summer. <br />
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I read this quote once and loved it..." The most precious jewels you'll ever have around your neck are the arms of your children."</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">let's talk balance. how do you find balance in tending to your daughter and also caring for yourself emotionally and physically?</span><br />
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I started off with sleeping training my kiddos when they were just babies. I know sleep training isn't for everyone, but it was for me. My husband is away from home a few days week...so scheduling and bedtime are a must. For me I know that I can give my kids all they need during the day b/c when that clock hits about 830 to <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_629317972" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">9pm</span></span> ...they all go to bed happy, and they all stay asleep until about <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_629317973" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">8 am</span></span> the next morning (give or take the occasional cold, thunderstorm, or bad dream). This allows me to be able to do whatever I want for the rest of the night for as long as I choose...watch a movie with the husband, read, blog, catch up on cleaning, get in a daily shower...or some nights go to bed approximately 5 minutes after they do. <br />
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<span style="color: #e06666;">as moms we strive to teach and show our children lessons shaping them as they grow, however, what is the one thing that you would want your children to grab on to and never forget?</span><br />
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Keep God first and have a real relationship with him...I mean a real meaningful relationship...this will help with life choices and when you strive to keep God first everything falls into place. Also, if they can be anything be kind...we can always use more kindness. </div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">christina, mothers need encouragement always. what words of wisdom or encouragement would you offer to other moms?</span></div>
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Be present and in the now...all most kids really want is your time...so give it to them...they will be grown and gone before you know it. Love them, lean on God, let them be little, speak kind uplifting words because the way you talk to them becomes their inner voice.</div>
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okay, did anyone else get tears in their eyes with that quote? loved christina's thoughts! thank you christina for sharing your heart girl. </div>
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you can find christina at her blog or follow her through instagram @treeofolive . </div>
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-13100973470060822832014-04-23T09:30:00.004-05:002014-04-23T09:40:17.621-05:00reaching out. <a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/WINDOW_zps2721fae1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo WINDOW_zps2721fae1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/WINDOW_zps2721fae1.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a>
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i talked to her. <br />
my neighbor. <br />
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i mean we had talked before like i said in my previous post. but never really <em>talked, talked. </em><br />
<em></em><br />
yesterday, my kids and i went for our daily walk around our neighborhood and she was out there with her babies. we exchanged words on the weather and her son came walking with us. <br />
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after monday's post and all of the encouragement i received from so many of you, i began to come up with ideas to invite her over and become friends. <br />
yesterday i was reminded that moments ordained by God don't need fancy or planned moves. He sets it all up. <br />
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coming back from our walk, i don't even remember what i said to her, something about if she ever needed help with anything she could always ask me and then, just then, her whole life story spilled out. <br />
three hours we were talking. three hours. when all i've ever exchanged with her are a few words. <br />
<br />
her story... is heart breakening. i mean just thinking about everything she said to me had me in tears and as i type this i'm still in tears. <br />
it's her story so i won't go into details of course, but this woman has been crying out for someone to talk to. someone to receive encouragement from. when i hugged her, she wouldn't let go. <br />
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it really goes to show everyone is fighting a hard battle and we don't even know it. or maybe we do, but become oblivious to it as to not interrupt our comfort zone. to not interrupt the bubble we have made up for ourselves that we would just focus on our own thing. <br />
yesterday i had planned to get my blog design spiffied up, i had planned to finish laundry and get some pictures in of new goodies for the shop, though the way God changed my day completely around couldn't have been better. <br />
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it's a good thing when our world is moved around to welcome in new things. it's a good thing. <br />
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-67687795360533617482014-04-21T11:10:00.003-05:002014-04-21T11:10:31.720-05:00my neighbor. <div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt=" photo IMG_20140323_094610_zpsipx6rzi1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/IMG_20140323_094610_zpsipx6rzi1.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></div>
i have this neighbor. <br />
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her kids and mine are relatively the same age, and from day one they've hit it off. they play together almost everyday and of course go to the same school together. <br />
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she and i have had some conversations outside while the kids play, but never really deep enough. just the casual. how are the kids, this weather is great, just scratching the surface. <br />
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i do remember one of the first conversations we had, she opened up to me and honestly caught me off guard. this woman whom i hadn't really engaged with opened up about her life. and at that point, i was only able to offer a few words of encouragement. and that was that. <br />
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since then, which easily was about three or four years ago, our acquaintance has not become anything else but that. until recently, i have felt a nudge to reach out to her. to get to know her. her story. <br />
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but i'm a little hesitant. not because i don't want to, i'm not sure how. <br />
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see, i've never really been good at putting myself out there. i've always been comfortable behind my front door. minding my own business. and so i think?<br />
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what if it gets messy? what if some boundaries are crossed? i mean, we live right next to each other for crying out loud! what if something doesn't go right?<br />
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but then....<br />
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what if it does? what if we find in each other encouragement, someone to lend out a helping hand to?<br />
what if we find a new friend that we can trust?<br />
what if i am able through that share my testimony and my story and listen to hers more?<br />
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i'm a little scared. i know it sounds silly, when i'm just offering friendship. but to this introvert, it's a whole new step. yet i'm reminded that this year i was led to choose the word selfless, and in this situation, i need to see beyond my uncomfort and step out into something new, knowing God will be leading me. <br />
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how do you usually try to connect with new women or new friends?<br />
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-78573956819459990852014-04-18T10:54:00.001-05:002014-04-18T10:56:16.272-05:00hello my name is. <br />
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today i'm joining<a href="http://www.kerriewilliams.com/search/label/Hello%20My%20Name%20Is" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;"> kerrie </span></a><span style="color: #e06666;"> , </span><a href="http://kerrytodd.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">kerry</span> </a>, and<span style="color: #e06666;"> </span><a href="http://aleshablessed/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">alesha</span></a> with another installment of:<br />
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<a href="http://www.kerriewilliams.com/search/label/Hello%20My%20Name%20Is" target="_blank" title="Hello My Name Is"><img alt="Hello My Name Is" src="http://i1082.photobucket.com/albums/j370/kerwilliams/HelloMyNameIsButton_zps235ed20c.png" style="border: currentColor;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">you can read<span style="color: #999999;"> </span><a href="http://www.kerriewilliams.com/search/label/Hello%20My%20Name%20Is" target="_blank"><span style="color: #999999;">here</span></a> to get more insight of the purpose of the link up.</span><br />
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i love knowing that the Lord in pulling me out of my darkness called me by my name. not by my failures, or past, but by name. a personal calling. </div>
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and throughout my walk with Him, in every changing season, He gives me a new name. a name that teaches me what He needs me to be, where He is calling me to next. </div>
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today in this season, my name is <span style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;">humbled</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;"></span> </div>
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<span style="color: black;">now i know that maybe it should read as humble and not humbled, but that would mean that i am there already, humble as Jesus, giving freely, not thinking of himself. but i'm not. </span></div>
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through this season, the Lord is ripping away every little bit of pride that resides within my heart. pride that has kept me from forgiving completely as He's forgiven me. pride that has kept me from freely encouraging out of pride for myself. pride that has kept me sitting comfortably in my seat instead of serving as He would. </div>
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He has been working in that part of my heart gently yet relentlessly as He knows my desire to serve and be more like Him. it's been hard, some of it painful, yet i know the end will be more beautiful than i could ever imagine. </div>
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what is the name you are being called by the Lord today?</div>
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Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77672299709173670.post-40506677719808567352014-04-17T08:43:00.000-05:002014-06-16T14:08:54.344-05:00sweet motherhood - Cindy Medrano<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/ABM_1397072246_zpsr7sda94s.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo ABM_1397072246_zpsr7sda94s.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/ABM_1397072246_zpsr7sda94s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
i gotta say, thursdays will be my new favorite day for a while. featuring mothers and having them share their story on this space is so exciting! <br />
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this is the second installment in this sweet motherhood series and today we have Cindy from <a href="http://cinsarah.com/" target="_blank">cinsarah</a> sharing her thoughts on motherhood and her journey. </div>
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i met cindy years ago through church and she is one of the sweetest. she is currently part of the worship team at her church and not only does she sing, she plays the drums! she's one pretty crafty momma and has many diy projects featured on her blog. </div>
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<a href="http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/jony313/media/CINDY_zpsfa9dabc1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo CINDY_zpsfa9dabc1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb420/jony313/CINDY_zpsfa9dabc1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://cinsarah.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">blog</span></a><span style="color: #e06666;">/</span><a href="http://instagram.com/cinsarah" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">instagram </span></a><span style="color: #e06666;">/</span><a href="http://twitter.com/cinsarah" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">twitter</span></a><span style="color: #e06666;">
/ </span><a href="http://facebook.com/cinsarah" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">facebook</span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">cindy, tell us a little bit of your story and who you are a mom to?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13.33px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Why is it so hard to talk about yourself? At least for me it is. Ok let's begin... my name is Cindy. My husband Omar and I have three kids, Joshua (7), Sarah (5) and Levi (1). I met my husband at church when he was in the military and would visit my church where his aunts would attend. I thought he was so handsome of course but never ever thought I would end up marrying that handsome man.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13.33px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Little did I know he was the man I would pray for, the one God chose for me. He asked me to be his girlfriend on September 22, 2002, we dated for almost 4 years and then married in 2005. Joshua was born on September 22, 2006. It's not a coincidence it's actually an answered prayer. I prayed for him to be born on that day and God is so good, He answered my prayer. Our three kids have been answered prayers. God has been so good to us. We're not perfect, we have had our rough times but it's in those hard times where we have seen his Love and Mercy so beautifully shown in our lives.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">motherhood isn't always what we expect, what about motherhood surprised you or has been different than what you expected it to be?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13.33px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Motherhood is such a blessing and a BIG responsibility. I had Josh when I was 19 so I was young, I didn't know anything. It was especially tough because Josh was born with a cleft palate so he needed special attention. I didn't expect him to be born with this deformity. I was angry, upset and I didn't understand but I can now say I am thankful through it all because that experience taught me so much. Being a mom goes way beyond caring for a child. Through motherhood I've come to truly understand God's love for us.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">being a mom is hard work, isn't it? but always rewarding. what do you enjoy most about motherhood?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13.33px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes being a mom is hard. You are so right but like you said it's so rewarding. Without the tough times I don't think I would appreciate the good ones as much. I enjoy watching my kids, hearing them talk and seeing little bits of myself and my husband in them. I love when we go to church and I see them sitting in the front row singing and praising God. I love seeing them laugh and play with each other. I love it all!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">let's talk balance. how do you find balance in tending to your daughter and also caring for yourself emotionally and physically?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13.33px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't have it all together. Some days I feel I am on task and I feel productive. Other days I struggle to get out of bed and I feel so behind on everything. One thing that I started doing recently that has been a HUGE difference is eating healthier/exercising. Taking care of myself physically has made a difference in that I have a lot more energy and I just feel great overall. I don't work out everyday but I try to go running or biking once or twice a week and I do it with the kiddos so it's a win-win. We spend time together and I get a good workout!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">as moms we strive to teach and show our children lessons shaping them as they grow, however, what is the one thing that you would want your children to grab on to and never forget?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13.33px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If there's anything that I would like my kids to learn and keep with them is God's love. I want them to have a relationship with their creator. I want them to walk in his ways. That is my ultimate prayer for them, for God to use them. For God's purpose to be fulfilled in them and although they're still very young I also pray for their future spouses. It's important to pray for their future spouses! I learned this from my own parents.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #e06666;">cindy, mothers need encouragement always. what words of wisdom or encouragement would you offer to other moms?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13.33px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoy your kiddos! Love them and show them you love them everyday! That's it :)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13.33px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">such great thoughts Cindy. I love that her kiddos as small as they are already show a passion for God! and i totally feel you on the days you just don't want to get out of bed! haha. </span></span><br />
thank you so much Cindy for sharing your story here today. :) you can find Cindy's latest diy's or cute kiddos' ootd's at her blog and through her instagram. @cinsarah <br />
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</span></span><br />Leahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14697813954232884673noreply@blogger.com2