38

  That's the number today, friends. I'm celebrating today surrounded by my family including my parents, sisters and their families.

I've said it before - my 30's have been the best. I spent my twenties working my tail off, learning life and  discovering who I really am. My thirties have been settling into that and making choices from that knowledge. I know what makes me tick and I know how I want to spend my life. When I see that sense of who I am starting to fade, I have to make changes. I want to savor every moment. I don't want to spend it trying to be something I'm not or being afraid to do something different.

I know that the fourties are knocking, but I'm ready. I've have the privilege to be a part of SO many amazing things so far. I can't imagine was God has in store for my days ahead.

My birthday prayer...I thank you, Heavenly Father, for parents who brought me into this world and introduced me to You. Thank you for the family you have given me to do life with each day. I dedicate the year ahead to making choices that honor You, spending my time wisely on things that truly matter, and not waisting a moment being someone that I am not. Thank you for trusting me with the years you have given me. I pray my days ahead bring honor to You, My Creator and My God...

7

  Is she really seven? That's what I keep trying to tell myself. Has it really been seven years since she came into our world?

I was so nervous to have a girl.  I'm not exactly the sterotypical female and I never was really a "girlie" girl. What if she really likes pink and frills and sparkles? Well, God has a sense of humor. Sydney is ALL that and more! 

I prayed that God would give us a sweet, loving, compassionate daughter...and HE answered. For those who know Sydney, she has the kindest heart. She seeks out to help those that are hurting. We saw her this year show that kindness to a girl in her class that was being made fun of a little bit. Sydney stuck with her like glue till it all worked out. She writes cards to people on her own and is so nurting to her little brother...he would say a little TOO nurturing to him.

I see glimpses of the compassionate heart of God through Sydney. I have learned so much from watching her and seeing the innocent and non-assuming way she cares for others. I'm so proud of her, but more importantly, I see the light of God's love in her life.

Happy Birthday, Sissie...

Colossians 3:12..."So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience;"

Miracles

  I blogged a few weeks ago about our Miracle Offering at the Island Campus and being a part of something amazing...CLICK HERE to read the update from Todd on our Island blog.

The verses that keep coming to mind as we walk this unbelieveable path of faith are ones that confirm God's promises to to provide.

"Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this." - Psalm 37:5 (NIV)

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart...in all your ways acknowledge Him and HE will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5 a,6 (NIV)

My faith as a Christ-follower has increased in ways I have never experienced. I truly believe God is guiding and leading in ways that only HE can make a way. It will not be in any human strength. His power alone...and this is a GREAT place to be!

16

  It's hard for me to believe that 16 years ago today was my wedding day. There are moments that it feels like yesterday and moments that seem like it happened in another lifetime.

It's a big deal. Not only have I been married that long, but I actually still LOVE the guy! Based on what I see around me and what I watch happening in our culture, I'm celebrating! Every year we are together I treasure even more celebrating our anniversary.

The winding road of marriage is never uneventful for us. From nine years  of "just the two of us" to the past seven of having our seven year old daughter and four year old son, our life is an adventure. I would not be honest if I didn't say that outside of God's grace and faithfulness in our lives, we wouldn't be celebrating today. When two flawed people joined their lives together, there is bound to be some struggles. However, I write this blog with such joy and excitement at the days ahead in my marriage and the seasons of life that we have before us.

Todd, you are my best friend. You love me for who I am even when that person is unloveable. You are kind, compassionate, and a nurturing husband. You have given me two beautiful children and have filled my days with excitement and adventure. I love doing ministry alongside you and our best days are ahead. I love you more, honey...