Opportunity to Find

"Yes in those seasons, I saw my faith in Jesus flourish. His tender hand and everlasting love were more abundantly clear to me in those bleak times than they were when I was holding the status quo. His compassion, mercy and forgiveness have resounded as beautiful melodies in my ears the most when I have erred and sinned, coming back to Him repentant.

Knowing what I know now about trials and hard times has given me a different perspective on losing things. I say, bring on the loss! For when things are lost, then we are given the amazing opportunity to find."
~MckMama

Pictures-Millikin Vocal Festival 2010

This is the beautiful sight of a perfect fall afternoon with Culver's ice cream.....and a short get-a-way with PapaMonkey for our annual trip to Millikin University Vocal Festival with his students.
Was a great relaxing 2 days....lotsa yummy food, laughter, late night, awesome music........

And I say it every year: WE HAVE THE BEST STUDENTS EVER!!!

Supposedly this building is haunted.....however, I still love to take photo shoots there...love the roof line...

The Millikin Choir....they are awesome, they got invited to perform in Ireland this next year!!!

All the teachers/directors that take their students get to perform a number also on the 2nd night. Jason is the 2nd guy to the right of the tall friendly giant on the top row ;)

over 300 students this year......always gives me goosebumps when I hear them sing!

We love you guys!!!

Hot air balloon at the university as we were leaving, their homecoming festivities were starting.

7 Needs In Marriage

Pastor Steven Furtick shared this with a group of pastor's wives.
But it can apply to any marriage:

What the husband needs from the wife:


1. I need you to take care of you.
-your health, happiness, your intimacy with God

2. I need you to believe in me.

3. I need you to encourage me.
-I'm with you no matter what
-I know you best and love you most
-Who cares what they think

4. I need you to help keep me focused on what really matters.

5. I need you to make our home "base," a place where I feel safe

6. I need you to pray for me.
-You know what to pray better than anyone

7. I need you to remind me of God's past faithfulness.

They are such good reminders for me as I tend to get caught up in taking care of the monkies, laundry, cleaning, meals, etc........Be blessed.

Chicken Feather Plucker

So during naptime yesterday Lil Miss Ellie decided to take apart my feather duster. Obviously, she doesn't think I need it anymore OR she is trying to show me she would be the bestest chicken feather plucker ever if I ever let her take part in a butchering shenanigan ;)

Humility

"Humility births courage and is brother to the brave."
~Ann Voskamp

Pictures-Weekends are For....

Weekends are for........DAYDREAMING....

MAKING PENS AND PLAYING HORSES OR PUPPIES.....

MAKING MESSES ;)

LAYING IN THE SUNSHINE AND JUST RELAXING.......

GOOFIN' OFF.....CUDDLING.....EATING TOO MUCH.....QUALITY TIME.....LOVIN'.......

and being reminded of how awesome our God is.....and being thankful for the gifts He gives.

Prayer of Thanks and Action

"Thank You for my daily bread.
Through me, feed those who are hungry.


Thank You for a body and mind that work.
Through me, heal those who are broken.


Thank You for loving me when I was your enemy.
Through me, love my enemies.


Thank You that someone told me the story of Christ’s death and resurrection.
Through me, tell the world.
Amen."

~Prayer by Shaun Groves