Crazy Faith

First Foods

2012-01-26T15:43:00.000-05:00

Bryson started eating rice cereal when he was 4 1/2 months old. He LOVED it! He has also had a bit of sweet potatoes since then, but we've had to cut back on all solids due to him fighting a stomach bug for the past couple of weeks. I can't wait to help him explore new tastes once he's feeling better!

Bday Party

2012-01-26T15:40:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of December we held a birthday party for the boys on campus. It was a wonderful time of celebration with our campus friends!

Dancing to the Happy Birthday song

In the gym playing

The kiddos from the party. (Swenson kiddos, Tichnor kids, Fusion kids, daniel glenn and william carter)

William and his mom, Rachel

I couldn't resist getting a picture of Bryson and Zoe together. Zoe is 6 days younger than Bryson!

It was a wonderful time of fellowship and celebration! I am so grateful for Zachary and Nicholas! Happy Birthday boys!

Thanksgiving

2012-01-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving on campus this year. We had family and friends over and I had the privilege of hosting another Thanksgiving in our home! I absolutely loved it!

Grandma (my mom) resting with Nicholas

Check out these place mats that I made for the Thanksgiving table!! I got the idea from Hobby Lobby's inspirational page! Thank you Hobby Lobby! All it took to make them was felt, hot glue, stickers, ribbon and artificial leaves. The pocket you see to the right is for your silverware. I had so much fun making these! I made them one night while Dan was out of town preaching. I made several different color arrangements for the place mats, but I won't post all of them!

Bryson and Landon.

Landon's mom, Tiffany, and I were 2 out of the 3 women that were pregnant together during the summer. The three of us were all due within a week or so together. Landon was born 3 days after Bryson!

We had to borrow Landon's bib for a picture of Bryson's 1st Thanksgiving! Thanks Landon for sharing!

Tiffany, Kyle and Landon. It was an honor being able to open our home up to them when they were unable to go home to FL for Thanksgiving. They were such a joy to have around! Love them dearly! I really enjoyed Tiffany and I picking each other's brains about Babywise.

After eating, Dan and I thought we may brave the Middlesboro Wal-Mart for the Pre-Black Friday sales on Thursday night. To really appreciate this, first understand that this is the only Wal-Mart within a 30 - 45 minute radius. The Middlesboro Wal-Mart gets hit with KY shoppers, TN shoppers and Virginia shoppers! Dan and I entered Wal-Mart at around 9:30pm and it is packed. Imagine taking half of Mall St Matthews' crowd and jamming them all in a small, narrow-aisled Wal-Mart. We debated for about 15 minutes whether we should stay and fight the crowds or to leave. We left. Went home and went to bed! Later I heard that the average time waiting in line that night was about 2 1/2 hours! Just in line! Craziness. Glad we left!

Friday we decorated for Christmas!

It was another great Thanksgiving. I am so thankful for so much. For family and friends. For a healthy family. For church family and campus family. Ones that we hold so near and dear to our hearts.

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting. ~Psalm 118:1

You are my God, and I give thanks to You; You are my God, I extol You. ~Psalm 118:28

Halloween

2012-01-12T09:25:00.000-05:00

Still working on catching up the blog. With that, here are the boys from Halloween!

Our little monkey! I love the split bananna peel on the head!

Captain America & the Green Lantern!

Camping in October

2012-01-07T21:54:00.009-05:00

So here we are in January, and I am just now beginning to catch up on blogging. Wheww! Life has been busy. I do apologize for the delays in posting (for anyone out there who still reads this thing!) But I have uploaded several pictures from the past several months and in any spare time, I will attempt to finalize my postings with captions to get them on the blog!

Here were some pictures that I found on the laptop from our camping trip that we took in October, (my last week on maternity leave, and the week that I had mastitis.) Bryson was about 2 months old in these pictures.

Hanging out in the tent, all bundled up. It was a bit cooler in the nights than what we had anticipated on.

Some time at the playground. I particularly thoroughly enjoyed this time watching the boys run from one activity to another, while Dan and I relaxed in some chairs holding Bryson and just hanging out together.

While we were camping, the campgrounds were pretty much empty around the tent sites, so the boys had plenty of open field space to run and play! It was great!

Bryson loved being outside and examining everything that was around him.
First arriving on the site, setting up the tent.

Hanging out in the playpen outside in the beautiful weather!

Helping Daddy with the tent.

The boys were big helpers moving a picnic table over to our campsite.

You're Already There

2011-11-10T10:45:00.002-05:00

From where I’m standing
Lord, it’s so hard for me to see
Where this is going
And where You’re leading me
I wish I knew how
All my fears and all my questions
Are going to play out
In a world I can’t control

When I’m lost in the mystery
To You my future is a memory
‘Cause You’re already there
You’re already there
Standing at the end of my life
Waiting on the other side
And You’re already there
You’re already there

From where You’re standing
Lord, You see a grand design
That You imagined
When You breathed me into life
And all the chaos
Comes together in Your hands
Like a masterpiece
Of Your picture-perfect plan

When I’m lost in the mystery
To You my future is a memory

One day I’ll stand before You
And look back on the life I’ve lived
I can’t wait to enjoy the view
And see how all the pieces fit

You’re already there
You’re already there
When I’m lost in the mystery
To You my future is a memory
‘Cause You’re already there
You’re already there
Standing at the end of my life
Waiting on the other side
And You’re already there
You’re already there

Loving this song by Casting Crowns.
Dan has finals the first week of December. Once those are complete... 3 MORE SEMESTERS remain at Clear Creek!! I'm getting really excited about what the Lord may have planned for us. He is beginning to open some doors and we're pretty confident at this point where He's leading our family! (More details to come soon!) But reality is beginning to sink in at times, and it can be a bit scary as well. I know these final semesters here will fly by.

I Can't Believe it's been A Month

2011-10-21T11:14:00.005-04:00

Since I've last posted. I have a TON to catch you guys up on. Everything from a camping trip, mastitis, returning to work, dr appointments, and of course random kiddo stuff!

MmMmM... where to begin. Well the days flew by on my maternity leave and I am now back to work. :( It's not been an easy adjustment at all. Actually, it really sucks. I've been back a week and a half now. Everyday I tend to cry, because of missing the boys, or worrying about them Bryson is not taking a bottle very well at the day care. He is only taking about an ounce to two ounces every 3 hours. His perfect little routine that we had going is completely messed up now. He was sleeping through the night at 7 weeks, now that's all shot. And, the boys have been in day care their first full week as of today, and they are both now sick. UGH!! Nicholas and Bryson both have dr appointments for later this afternoon. I also tend to stay much more stressed out now that I'm back at work. I come home to rush with dinner, clean up from dinner, help with homework, give baths and try to straighten up the house as much as possible. The house is a wreck from camping. Camping totes are still piled in my living room and laundry is still behind. I'm frustrated that I'm not home during the day anymore to take care of the home duties and to keep it nice and tidy.

Yep, being back at work really bites. My heart longs to be at home raising my kiddos and doing the whole stay at home mom thing. I miss being on campus during the day. To take walks, hang out with other moms. Pick Zachary up from school. Run errands if needed. Go to chapel with Dan. Clean house. Have meals ready when needed. Hang at the library. Have Bible studies with the kids after school.

I didn't think returning back to work would be this difficult. It wasn't this hard with Zachary and Nicholas. Please remember me in your prayers as I adjust. Also please keep the boys in your prayers as they adjust as well. Especially Bryson. Also, it would be nice -Lord willing- that our budget could perhaps adjust for me to be at home again. ;)

WoW! Didn't mean to get into that soap box! Sorry. But thanks for letting me vent a bit!

Now on to more fun and exciting updates!

Dan had fall break the first week of October, and it was my first time off during his break, so we took full advantage and got away for the week. (It was also our 8th wedding anniversary during that week!) We decided to go camping! We really wanted to go somewhere different, but we decided to go to Elk Corn in Frankfort, KY. It was nice because we wanted to go out for our anniversary, and this way we had plenty of grandparents to watch the kiddos for us! We had planned to camp Tuesday - Friday morning. Unfortunately, camping was cut short.... Wednesday I came down with mastitis. This is an infection with flu like symptoms that you can get while breastfeeding. OH MY GOODNESS... this is possibly the sickest I have ever been and the worst thing I have ever felt. IT WAS HORRIBLE! I hated how is happened while we were camping too. Wednesday, we were walking back to our campsite from the playground, and I felt the "let down" sensation to feed Bryson. Although, it was much more painful than normal and I almost dropped Bryson out of my arms. I fed him, but instead of feeling relief, the pain just got worse. WAY worse. Later that evening, I had a fever of 103, horrible chills, shortness of breath, and my entire body ached. I could barley walk. I couldn't move my arms. It was so bad. Luckily, we were close to Shelbyville, so I was able to see my old family doc! Who is awesome! I was put on an antibiotic and started feeling better by Saturday. But we left the campsite on Thursday afternoon after my appt, because I was so sick. My normal milk supply is just now getting back to normal. It almost stopped while I was sick and continued to be really low while I was on the antibiotic, which I just finished a few days ago. I'm glad to be able to continue nursing.

Camping up to that point was awesome though! My favorite moments were the campfires at night, making smores, the morning campfire with just Dan and I while the boys were still sleeping. Our moments at the playground watching the boys play and Dan and I just relaxing and laughing together while they played. We enjoyed a walk together along the creek. We played a lot in the big open fields since the campground wasn't very busy! It was really great, and relaxing! I'm looking forward to camping again this spring.

Dan and I were able to go out for our anniversary as well! Dan's parents watched the boys for us for a few hours while Dan and I headed to downtown Louisville and Southern Indiana to do some shopping and just hanging out. I really loved this quality time with my husband. We talked a lot about youth conferences - trying to do one still, life after Clear Creek (TX perhaps!), a trip to Cali next year, and the boys (of course! what parents can go on a date and NOT talk about the kids?!?!). I love hanging out with my hubby! It was a great way to celebrate our 8th Wedding Anniversary!

In other news... Bryson had a wellness checkup a few weeks ago. At it, he weighed 11 1/2 pounds and was in the 85 percentile. He is already getting so big. Now, at 10 weeks, he is really beginning to "ooh" and "aww" and make squeaking noises A LOT! We love it! He smiles a lot as well. His neck is getting stronger. It won't be long until I can carry him on my hip.

Zachary and Nicholas are still awesome big brothers! They love Bryson so much and love to play, hug and give him kisses! We are so blessed!

I think that's all the updates for now.

Hope you guys have an awesome weekend!

These Days...

2011-09-21T13:34:00.005-04:00

I love these days. These days at home with two of my boys. These days on campus. These days of being home with Dan during his breaks from classes through out the day. These days being more involved in Zachary's school.

As the weeks get shorter and shorter until I return back to work, I am trying to soak in each of these days. At first, it was chaos and overwhelming, but now I don't want them to end. I do believe I could get used to being at home full time. (I think I'm already used to it!)

I love how we can walk around campus on beautiful fall - like days. Spend story book time in the library. Play on the playgrounds together. Attend chapel with Dan. Eat lunch in Kelly Hall, or have lunch ready at home when Dan is in between classes. I love how I'm able to pick Zachary up from school every day. I love how I can fellowship more with other mommy's on campus and sew together! I love visiting our dear friend Jan during the day in her office and eating all her candy out of the dish! Or sitting in the gazebo on cool days. I love our date nights consisting of the boys sleeping while we sit on the couch with some popcorn enjoying America's Got Talent! I love my naps with the boys during the day. Or watching a ridiculous amount of Power Rangers on Netflix through out the day!

These days are awesome and I will cherish them forever!

1st Bath!!

2011-09-13T13:35:00.003-04:00

Several days ago, Bryson's cord finally came off! Therefore, Bryson got to enjoy his first real bath! He didn't do too bad, just fussed a little. He enjoyed last night's bath much better!

1 Month Old

2011-09-13T13:32:00.003-04:00

Last Wednesday, Bryson turned 1 Month Old. I can't believe how big he is already!

Revival

2011-09-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

"Lord, do anything you want to do through me, so that You may do everything You want to do through me...."

That was the message in last week's campus revival.

Can I be honest with you guys for a moment. I am not ready to say this prayer yet to the Lord. Dan and I are beginning to pray about life after Clear Creek. Dan only has 3 semesters left after the current semester. Time is flying by. He may have one offer to stay at our current church in Jonesville Virginia. We are building a new building to hold many community events and make more room for our growing church. Which of course is totally exciting! Dan has so many ideas for this new building and I think it's going to be a great thing for the community of Jonesville.

I'm afraid the Lord will call us to stay in Jonesville after Clear Creek. Why is this bad you may ask? Because it's not what I want!! I miss home. I miss Shelbyville. I miss Louisville. I miss those communities! I miss the culture of home. The culture in this area is weird. The people can be different. (Although Dan has pointed out to me that we're actually the different ones since we're not from this area.) And... Jonesville is smaller than Pineville! It's even more so in the middle of no where!

I guess I just thought that we would only be in this area for 4 years, then we would move on. That God would call us out of this area. Maybe to seminary. Or maybe back home.

None of this has been confirmed. But I know Dan wouldn't mind to stay at the church.

I will admit. I am a spoiled brat who wants to always have her way! My current relationship with the Lord reminds me of the relationship that I had with my dad as a young girl. Being the youngest child and the only girl, I often got what I wanted. I would bat my eyes and smile and dad would say "ok, Nikki". I do the same with Dan as well. I KNOW I AM SPOILED! This is bad, I know. But at least I'm not afraid to admit it! I'm used to getting my way, and I guess I am looking to Him batting my eyes, smiling and saying PLEASE and He should say, OK! There are times I feel, "ok, Lord. I left everything, we'll be here for 4 years, now it's my turn to choose!"

Who am I to feel that way?!?! It's so selfish and sinful. I know I shouldn't view Him in that way and I need to repent and let go and fully surrender to Him. But it is so hard sometimes. I am praying that He will soften my heart, because I really do want to be obedient and do the whatever He calls us to.

Just being real with you guys. No need in painting some perfect picture of myself. This is what I am currently struggling with. Please pray for me!

Good thing we still have a little less than 2 years before life after Clear Creek begins!

A Bit More Catching Up...

2011-09-12T09:26:00.003-04:00

I wanted to include a post about Bryson's 1 Week Check Up, even though he is now 4 1/2 weeks old!

His 1 Week Check Up went well!

He weighed 7 pounds 9 ounces! Growing like a weed!
His skin color was good - no jaundice
I had all my breastfeeding questions answered and received some good tips from the dr

That's all I can remember about his 1 Week Check Up. (Pathetic, I know!) But it was been several weeks in between. I'll try to post these things as they happen!

My Boys!

2011-09-12T09:08:00.000-04:00

Taking A Bottle!!

2011-09-12T09:07:00.000-04:00

When Bryson was 2 1/2 weeks old, we decided to introduce the bottle. We decided this for a few different reasons. Mainly, because in a few weeks, I will be returning to work and Bryson will have a sitter during the day and will need to be well established with a bottle by then.

We also decided in this because, at this point, I was completely exhausted from being the only one to feed him every 2 1/2 - 3 hours.

When I gave Bryson his first bottle, he took it like a pro!! I cried and thanked the Lord! I was so proud of him! Later that day, Daddy got to feed Bryson for the first time!

The help is very welcomed!!

Some Catching Up...

2011-09-12T08:55:00.000-04:00

I have a lot to catch you guys up on... Everything from Bryson's 1 Week Check Up, Campus Revival and Labor Day... I have LOTS to catch you guys up on! I'll begin with Labor Day:

It was an amazing weekend! We were able to go home for the long weekend. It was so awesome. This new momma really needed the break from the Pineville area! (We've not been back home since the beginning of June when we had our Baby BBQ!) So visiting home was great!

We spent the day shopping in Louisville on Friday, then hung out at my mom's house that night.

Bryson's first time using the Pack - n - Play. He slept pretty well in it! I love how easy this thing is to use when traveling!

Some Tummy Time, he wasn't too fond of it at first...

But now he's better!

My boys!

Saturday, we visited my dad and step mom and all my siblings along with all the nieces and nephews! We spent the afternoon at the park where my sister brought her slip-n-slide! It was so fun!

Watermelon Time!

We all enjoyed some refreshing watermelon... all except Nicholas who had chocolate cake... notice him chowing down in the background of this picture!

Bryson with Aunt Billie and cousin Alyssa!

Saturday night Dad and Marquita watched all three boys for Dan and I! We were able to have our first date night since Bryson has been born!! THANKS GUYS SO MUCH! We needed this time together! Dan and I enjoyed dinner together and then spent a bit more time shopping.

Sunday, we were able to visit our home church! Every opportunity we have, we love visiting our home church. I miss it dearly.

After church it was off to our niece's 1'st birthday party!

Scarlett's 1'st B-Day!

Big Sister Maddison

Sunday night, I pumped before going to sleep and Dan and his mom tagged team with Bryson all night! I had a full 6 hours of peaceful sleep!! It was GREAT!!

All the boys did great traveling together! We bought an adapter (I think that's what it's called) that you plug into the cigarette lighter so I'm able to pump on the go! We just planned feedings around traveling time.

Bryson was a bit fussy at some of the families homes. Right now, he doesn't do too well with loud noises. Hopefully, he'll adjust to that.

It was a refreshing get away for us, me especially! Each time we go home, it really makes me homesick though. I wouldn't mind if the Lord called us back home one day... but it's not looking like it right now. At least we can visit anytime we want!

One Week Old

2011-08-17T17:39:00.008-04:00

Today Bryson is a week old! Some things that have occurred during his first week:

We have already developed a pretty predictable routine. He nurses every 2 1/2 - 3 hours.
Nursing times are pretty much the same time each day.
Bryson has good wake time and sleep time.
Dan and I have quickly remembered how many diapers /wipes a newborn goes through.
I have been "showered" one too many times! (Like every diaper change!)
I'm not joking about the every diaper change comment!
Dan hasn't been "showered" at all.
The blinds have been showered on.
The dresser had been showered on.
The "shower fountain" has hit the floor many times. (There are times that it looks like a fountain!)
It's reminds me of the Pampers commercial.
I have been reminded of how much the laundry loads increase with a newborn. Probably due to all the showers.
When I eat Taco Soup or Pizza, it makes Bryson spit up after nursing.
I feel a bit overwhelmed about leaving the house. How do I balance nursing with regular scheduled activities like church, taking Zachary to school and flag football? (Please comment suggestions)
The boys have adjusted wonderfully to Bryson!
This brings me such joy!
I actually somewhat enjoy the middle of the night feedings with Bryson. It makes great prayer time. And I know one day when he's big, I'll miss these times.
The weather has cooled down and it has been beautiful outside, so we took Bryson on his first walk the other night!

I love being home with Nicholas and Bryson during the day. I think I could get used to staying at home regularly. Nicholas, Bryson and I joined Dan in Chapel this week. It was great to have fellowship. It's been a great week!

Being a new mommy again is great!

Birth Story

2011-08-14T11:09:00.008-04:00

We arrived at the hospital at 6:30 AM. The first couple hours at the hospital were peaceful. It was just Dan and I in the room while we waited for the induction to begin. Finally at 7:30 a nurse came in to check me before beginning the induction process. Over night, I had dilated a full centimeter on my own! I think if I wasn't induced, I would have gone into labor very soon!

Finally at 8:30 AM the process began! The nurse broke my water and began the Pitocin. Only 4 Hours later, Bryson Josiah entered the world!

Marquita, Dad, and Dan's parents all arrived before the birth. Marquita and Angela (Dan's mom) were there in the room the majority of the time.

Within the first hour of being induced, I went from a 3 to a 5! I decided to receive an epidural when I was at 5 cm. Although I've received epidurals in past deliveries, I had a different reaction to it this time. My blood pressure plummeted. I almost passed out due to my blood pressure and Bryson's heart beat dropped pretty drastically. I was put on oxygen and it slowly leveled everything back out. I remember feeling really nervous and scared during all this.

The next time the nurse checked my progress, I was a 7! And before I knew it, it was time to push! The pushing sensation came very quickly to me. When the sensation first came, my dad was in the room, and I remember feeling a bit embarrassed because "some things" were becoming uncontrollable. :/ Dan buzzed for the nurse and indeed it was time to push! After pushing for 3 MINS, and not giving the doctor enough time to even get his gloves on, Bryson was here!! He literally just slid out of me. The doctor and nurses were screaming for me to stop pushing, but I WASN'T pushing. He was just coming. QUICKLY! I guess this was a benefit from carrying him so low! ;) He was ready!

At 12:28 PM we finally got to meet our Bryson! Weighing at 7 pounds 4 ounces and 20 1/4 inches long, he is definitely our bundle of joy!

When Bryson was born, the cord was around his neck. I didn't know this until Dan told me about it on Friday. Bryson was very blue when he was first born. I thought it was because his body temp was low, but it was because of the cord. The doctor put him under some heat lamps and he got his color within a couple hours.

I only received one stitch during recovery. I think this has been my easiest delivery. I have been very blessed and I am very thankful that all my deliveries have been pretty quick and not very long.

During the hospital stay, we called the boys to let them know that mommy and Bryson were doing well. When we told Zachary that baby Bryson was here he said, "Awe. He made it! YAY!" It was so sweet and innocent. The night before he told me that he was scared that Bryson would go to heaven with Thomas. :(

We arrived home with Bryson on Friday and he was finally able to meet his two big brothers!

One last preggo pic

Coming home from the hospital

Meeting brothers for the first time!

The boys reaction to Bryson was incredible! They both are amazed by him. Nicholas went straight to the tiny hands and feet. Zachary loves holding and staring at Bryson. They will both be amazing big brothers!

Fun Fact: All three of our boys were born on Wednesdays!!

WELCOME BRYSON JOSIAH POE!!!

2011-08-14T10:37:00.004-04:00

Last Night as Family of Four

2011-08-14T10:29:00.002-04:00

Our last night as a family of four was a great night! We were all bursting with excitement waiting to meet Bryson!

I didn't sleep much that night. I was actually uncomfortable with contractions during the night. I was also fighting with anxiousness, a bit of nervousness, and of course excited about the morning.

Tomorrow is the Day!!!!

2011-08-09T16:14:00.003-04:00

I have to be in Corbin at 6:30 AM to begin induction!!!! Today I found out at my appointment that I have dilated to 2 cm! Which is great news! I've progressed quite nicely on my own.

OH MY! I can't believe I'm having a baby tomorrow!!! I have SO many emotions going through me! Excitement. Nervousness. Crazy hormones kicking in... a bit sad that this will be our last night as a family of four. Psycho nesting has suddenly become, "if you get in my way I'll kill you!" :) Wondering how the boys will adjust. Wondering what Bryson will look like. How big he w ill be. Missing Thomas a bit more than usual. Feeling a little guilty. Did I mention I'm excited?!?! Scared. Totally ready!

Moments of pregnancy that I've loved that have included the boys:

Zachary & Nicholas hugging and kissing my belly goodnight each and every night!
Nicholas asking for the past several weeks, "Is Bryson coming out of your belly today?"
Nicholas also saying, "Few more weeks and Bryson will be here!"
Zachary asking how Bryson will be coming out. These moments were a bit awkward! :/
The boys talking to Bryson.
The boys feeling Bryson move.
Nicholas saying for months that he was having a baby sister!

Yeah, I think they will both be wonderful big brothers!

Back to School

2011-08-07T09:31:00.003-04:00

I can't believe Zachary is starting the 2nd Grade! He is getting so big! I am enjoying being off work right now and being able to take him and pick him up everyday from school. Plus getting to hang out with Nicholas and hanging out on campus during the day is pretty awesome as well! I can already tell that going back to work in October is going to be difficult.

This week has been pretty busy. With the news that I may be induced on Wednesday we've been busy making reservations for family at Kelley Hall, rechecking hospital bags, and psycho nesting is in FULL SWING now!

Campus festivities are in full swing as well with the new semester beginning Thursday! A Welcome Dinner for new students and families, a Holly Hill Bon Fire, a Women's Luncheon, a Men's Luncheon, Fellowship at the FLC, are all just a few of the activities that have occurred or that will occur next week. I love being able to actually be a part of these festivities and not be in Middlesboro working. I really enjoy being able to take Nicholas to the library during the day, walking around campus with Nicholas, peaking in to say hi to Daddy, and then visit others on campus. It is so much fun for me!

38 1/2 Weeks

2011-08-07T09:07:00.005-04:00

I am now 38 1/2 Weeks and nearing the home stretch! And man, am I ready to have this little guy! My last appointment was Wednesday (8/3) and we found out some exciting news... If Bryson doesn't decide to come on his own by next Wednesday, (8/10), then I will most likely be induced!!! I would really rather go on my own, but I am to the point where I am ready to meet this little guy and physically I am ready to have my normal body back!

Here are some things that have been different from my other pregnancies:

Heartburn crazy! Some may think I crave TUMS the way I have to eat them!
I have three stretch marks on my belly. I cried when I discovered these. I never received ANY stretch marks from the boys, well except on my legs, but none on the belly. Gee thanks Bryson! ;)
This pregnancy has been physically the most uncomfortable. But I know it will all be over soon and well worth it!
I have struggled continuously with restless leg syndrome through out this pregnancy. Seriously, this is no fun.
I am still contemplating the idea of receiving no epidural during labor. Yeah, still not too sure about this though. Just keeping an open mind I guess.
I'm still craving ice cream, cereal, and fruits.
Being 9 months pregnant in the summer is no fun. I think if there is a "next time" we will plan around the summer months!
I love the boy's interaction with the pregnancy! They are so excited to meet Baby Bryson!

Full Term Belly! 37 Weeks

Happy Belated Fourth!

2011-07-25T02:53:00.008-04:00

I know it's a month late, but here are some pics from our Fourth of July! (I didn't completly sort the pictures in order... too lazy at the moment!)

Mom visited for the weekend. We hosted a BBQ at our house and had some families over for lunch on Monday then we all headed to Middlesboro for the fire work show! It was such a great time!

The three preggo ladies on Holly Hill! Again, as a fun reminder: All three of these guys work together on the cleaning crew! My due date: Aug 17th; Tiffany: Due Aug 15th, and Candace: Due Aug 20th! Oh by the way... Candace is also scheduled for an induction this Wednesday!!! LOL!

I LOVE this strawberry shortcake I made for the BBQ! How cute is this?!?!

Loving Nicholas' reaction to each and every fire work!

Hope you all had a great Fourth of July!

It's 2:17 AM

2011-07-25T02:28:00.005-04:00

And I can't sleep. So, I thought I would FINALLY update this thing, before my life becomes extremely busy with a new baby! Instead of blogging, I've been spending my days working, then coming home and cleaning, organizing, and somewhat resting! I would say the whole nesting thing is definitely in full swing! I am a nesting nut! Constantly finding something to clean, reorganizing cabinets, file drawers, (like any of this matters to bringing home a new baby!) But I just can't help it! All I think about is cleaning. I'm telling you. NUT! I tend to end up overdoing it, and then, I rest. On Dan's orders!

I have SO much to update you guys on.

Let's begin by going back to my 32 week appointment. Check out our little dude!

Aren't these the coolest pictures ever! We had a bit of a sneak peak of our little guy. I say it was just a big tease! We are so ready to meet him!

All of my appointments have been going well. More recently, beginning at 34 weeks, I have begun to dilate and my cervix has begun to thin. And Bryson has gotten in the birthing position! For the past 2 1/2 weeks I have been dilated a fingertip. The doctor has said with the progress that I was making, once I reached 36 weeks, they wouldn't stop labor should it happen. (Writing this, I am now 36 1/2 weeks.)

My next appointment is Wednesday, and I will officially be full term! I also have a few exciting questions for the doctor. One in particular that I want to ask... I think Saturday I lost my mucus plug. Which is always a sign of labor being nearer! I am beginning to feel many new aches and pains. The Braxton Hicks are becoming more and more frequent, lasting longer, and are sometimes accompanied with pain. I experience lower back pain pretty often during contractions. As well as pretty uncomfortable pelvis pressure and other pains. Yep, I'd say labor isn't too far off. Well, hopefully anyways! :)

Good Fellowship

2011-06-28T19:59:00.004-04:00

When we returned from Shelbyville after our Baby Celebration BBQ, we were greeted with a hot dog roast / bonfire on Holly Hill. Candace & Brandon moved into the Wilson's old house. They are expecting their first child. Now there are three of us on Holly Hill expecting! Brandon & Candace are due August 14th, Tiffany & Kyle are due August 15th and Dan and I are due August 17th!! Plus, all three of the guys work together on the Clear Creek Cleaning Crew!! How crazy is that?!?!

Candace & I showing off our baby bumps!

Baby Celebration!!

2011-06-27T21:07:00.008-04:00

On June 4th we were in Shelbyville to Celebrate baby Bryson! Our good friends, the Tywfords and Millers threw us a WONDERFUL Co-ed Baby BBQ!! It was so great and perfect!

Baby bump: 29 1/2 Weeks

Devon & Mickey Twyford

Mary & Cory Miller

Our lovely hostesses!

One of the main attractions of course was the FOOD!!

(LOVED this cake!!)

Cute Decor!

We had an adorable helper to assist in opening the gifts!

A beautiful quilt that my Grandma Jo made. It is the first quilt that she has ever made!! So special! I will cherish it forever.

Play Time!

Nicholas said I looked like Mickey Mouse with these balloons!

Such a big man helping to clean up!

The ride back to Pineville was... PEACEFUL!!

Thanks guys for throwing us a WONDERFUL Baby Celebration! We love you!

The Wilson Family

2011-06-27T20:42:00.005-04:00

This is Taylor & Benny Wilson. Benny graduated in May and several weeks ago they moved off campus. We spent a Friday night hanging out with them, loading the U-Haul, celebrating their son's, Adam, birthday and just spending a last few moments with them before leaving Clear Creek. As I mentioned, it's been several weeks since we've helped them move, but we still miss them terribly!

This is Brandon & Candace. Good friends of ours as well as the Wilson's. They were also there to hang out!

Zachary & Adam. I know Zachary misses Adam so very much. That's one thing that I don't like about living on a college campus. Every May our son has to say goodbye to some of his closest friends. It can be heartbreaking. :(

Some of the Clear Creek kiddos to celebrate Adam's birthday and help them move.

Already the chick magnate! OH MY!

Me & my Babe!

The Bowers Fam

Taking a break from the U-Haul to enjoy some birthday cake!

Cidney Sanders. Love this lady dearly!

The Dybass Family

I love hanging out with the Holly Hill Crew! Just not so much for saying goodbye to dear friends. Miss you Wilson Family!

Picture Update!

2011-06-27T19:57:00.000-04:00

I know it's been a while since I've last updated the blog. Hence, my earlier post, Overwhelmed! Things are finally quieting down a bit! I have so much to update you guys on! Everything from pregnancy, baby showers, campus bbqs, fun family times and so much more. But for now, here are some pics from one of the things that is now over that took up SO much of our time! Enjoy!

Zachary running in the winning point during the tournament game!

Celebrating at Pizza Hut with the team for winning the tournament!

Nichoas playing with his "baseball buddy"! She is also on campus with us! They play so well together!

Nicholas watching his big brother play!

Here is Nicholas with his little friend again!

During one of Nicholas' games, there weren't enough players, so they called Zachary in to help fill in! Zachary really enjoyed playing against his brother!

I remember during this game in particular is was really hot. Nicholas would often sit on the field in the shade to help cool off.

Zachary's face after winning the Championship Game!

More Flood Pictures

2011-06-22T08:27:00.005-04:00

Please pray for our community. It is so sad. Many have lost everything.

The bank's back parking lot.

The road behind the bank

The bank I work at is circled in red in the below pictures.

All photos courtesy of our Bank President and CEO.

Flood

2011-06-21T08:19:00.001-04:00

I woke up Monday morning with a call from my supervisor saying, "Don't come to work today." Here's why:

Photo courtesy of Middlesboro Daily News

Middlesboro was completely flooded. It was insane how quickly the waters rose. The below picture is Cumberland Drive, the street I work on. If you notice the hotel sign on the right of the picture, the bank I work at is directly across the street. The little bit of white that you see in the middle of the street, is a car.

Photo courtesy of Middlesboro Daily News

Photo courtesy of Middlesboro Daily News

I'm back to work today. It's so sad driving and seeing all the debris everywhere. There been a few homes washed away completely by the flood waters. Please pray for these families.

The creek on campus came out of its banks. There were a couple roads closed on campus, but there was no property damage.

Overwhelmed!

2011-05-18T09:48:00.004-04:00

I am SO INCREDIBLY busy these days and I am so incredibly tired; physically and mentally! I mentioned that last week I practically lived in Corbin at the doctor's office.

Corbin is a 45 minute drive from campus... so we've been in the car ALOT. I wrapped up my visits to the doctor's office on Monday. After driving 45 minutes there and 45 minutes back, I had to drive 25 minutes to work in Middlesboro. I left work at 4:00 on Monday, driving 25 minutes home. Being home for 20 minutes to fix dinner, then driving 45 minutes to Harrogate for sign language class, then another 45 minutes back home after class. I AM TIRED OF BEING IN THE CAR!! And I am tired of Sign Language Class. The class started in February and was supposed to be over in May. So many classes have been cancelled that now this class will run through mid JULY!!! I am tired of being so rushed on Mondays and doing all the extra driving to go to class. I'm sure this will only get more and more interesting the further along I get. :/

All the other nights of the week are spent at the ball field for Nicholas' T-Ball or Baseball for Zachary.

This weekend Patty and I are hosting a women's event, and to be honest, I have been totally stressing over it! I feel so unprepared because of my busy schedule and my lack of time to work on it.

I am stressing over the house, I am so ready to have the nursery ready... gotta have baby showers first though! The thought of having a baby in 10-13 weeks kinda puts me in panic mode wanting to detail clean the entire house and get everything organized! Is nesting beginning?

At work, beginning next Monday, I am rolling out a huge bank wide training that has taken a lot of preparation and energy. So, next week will be exhausting as well -- training all day, every day. Trust me, it takes a lot out of you, pregnant or not.

I am so tired. I need a vacation! Oh yeah, but I can't take vacation this year because I have to save all my time for maternity leave! That's ok. I would much rather have a baby than go on vacation. :) I guess I'm ready for maternity leave.

Thanks for letting me vent! Hopefully things will slow down soon. I need the break.

A Bit of a Scare..

2011-05-18T09:48:00.001-04:00

Last Wednesday, I had a unplanned visit to the doctor's office. On Tuesday night I noticed my feet, ankles, and legs were severely swollen. They looked like balloons! Ugh! At the time, I didn't really think much of it, considering it was a very warm day and we had just returned from the boy's T-Ball and Baseball Games. However, after sleeping a full nights sleep with my feet prompted on a pillow all night, the swelling had not gone down at all. I became a bit worried because of my history of preeclampsia. I called the doctor's office around mid morning Wednesday, not really sure if it warranted a phone call, but I wanted to at least ask about it. Of course, they wanted to see me.

Unfortunately, I do have other symptoms of preeclampsia. I've had a rapid weight gain in the last week. Since my last visit 4 weeks ago, I have gained 8 pounds - you should only gain a pound per week at this point in pregnancy. My current weight is 151. :/ Not liking that number at all! I've had blurred vision and puffy eyes. And as I've already mentioned, I've had severe swelling in my feet, ankles, and legs.

My blood pressure was good at that visit, which is great news! The doctor sent me down to the lab to have other tests done. They took my blood to run some tests on my kidneys and ordered me to do a 24 hour urine test over the weekend. yay. fun stuff right! They want to do the 24 hour test to see if there is any protein or sugar in my "fluids". The protein would indicate preeclampsia. The sugar would be a positive sign of gestational diabetes. Either one is bad and could be dangerous to me or the baby.

While I was at the doctor's office on Wednesday, I mentioned that I had noticed that his movements have slowed down quite a bit. Byrson has been very active, and I normally know what times of the day he will move the most. Tuesday night I hadn't felt him move at all. Wednesday morning when I first woke up.. nothing. I felt him a little while in the waiting room at the doctor's office. From the time I left the office (around 2:30), until I went to bed that night, I did not feel any movements from him. Nothing. I woke up on Thursday morning still not feeling any movements. I drank a glass of orange juice to try and get him going. He moved a bit at around 9:30 on Thursday morning. Then, nothing. I drank a small chocolate shake during lunch. Nothing! When I arrived home at around 5:00 on Thursday evening, I tell my worries to Dan and he encouraged me to call the nurse at the hospital to ask her opinion. She said to eat something sweet and lay down for an hour. If I didn't feel him move 10 times in that hour than I needed to come in. An hour went by, and I only felt Bryson three times. So, it was off to Corbin to the hospital. They hooked me up on a monitor and monitored his movements for an hour. The first half of the hour, he was pretty calm and still. The second half, man this little boy began going crazy in the womb! I think he was doing flips and jumping jacks in there. Of course, I was very relieved, but I was also a bit embarrassed and frustrated. But, at least he was ok! Dr. Parent still ordered a biophysical exam for Friday morning, since Bryson hadn't been very active over the last couple of days. The exam was a four part test. They checked the amniotic fluid, his breathing exercises, his movement activity, and his muscle tone. Everything came back perfect! Bryson is still very healthy and growing rapidly in my womb! Thank You Lord!

Monday morning I was back in Corbin for my regular appointment --- and to drop off my "fluids" test! I had my glucose screening test on Monday and should know the results sometime this week.

After last week, I am tired of the doctor's office! But, now my visits go to every two weeks because today marks the day I begin my third trimester!! OH MY! Can you beleive it?!?! In 10 - 13 weeks we'll have a baby!! I can't wait to meet our Bryson!

Half Way Mark!!

2011-05-12T10:42:00.000-04:00

Dan just completed his finals last week, which officially makes him a Junior now at Clear Creek!!! Which also means.... WE'RE HALF WAY THERE!! 2 Years Down. 2 To Go! I am so incredibly proud of my husband. Each semester he learns more and more about the Lord. And so far our time here at Clear Creek has done amazing things in our lives. We have become stronger as a couple, a stronger family, and closer to the Lord! He is about to burst however with all this information! Dan misses teaching youth. TERRIBLY! Don't get me wrong. He really enjoys the children at church, and loves teaching them as well. But his passion is youth. His calling is youth. I pray in the Lord's timing that He will open a door for my husband to fulfill his passion and calling.

But for now, I'm just celebrating in the moment that we are at our half way mark!! :)

I'll Hold You In Heaven!

2011-05-11T16:32:00.000-04:00

It's been a year since we lost Thomas. We still think of him often. We still wonder what kind of little boy he would have been. We still miss him. But I still praise my God for using Thomas the way He did. I still praise Him for His unexplainable comfort during that diffcult time. I still praise Him for drawing me nearer to Him during the pain. I praise Him that my son is in Heaven! I praise Him that my son will never know pain, sorrow or the disappointments of this life. I praise Him that Heaven is all that Thomas will ever know! And I praise Him that I will hold my sweet, precious, healthy baby boy in Heaven one day!!

Thank You Lord!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." ~Proverbs 3:5

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-11T16:04:00.005-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!!

Nicholas is sick today, and although I hate seeing him like this, I must admit, I love these moments of cuddling with him! So precious! Dan cooked a wonderful dinner for me on Saturday night and we've spent the whole weekend together just hanging out at the cottage. It's been very nice, considering we've been so busy lately. The R & R is wonderful!

Happy Mother's Day to two very special ladies in my life. My mom. And Marquita, my stepmom. I hate that I didn't get to see them this weekend, but I hope they both know how much I appreciate them!
Thanks mom for being my mom! For the long drives that you made when Ryan and I were kids. Three hours one way twice a weekend, every other weekend. For all the fun memories at the pool and beach and the awesome camping trips in San Diego! Awe... good times!

Marquita. Thank you for always being there! For creating many special memories for me as a teenager and young adult. Proms and dances. Pregnancies and births.

Both of you mean so much to me and I love you both very much! Happy Mother's Day!

Women's Senior Tea & Graduation

2011-05-07T10:40:00.006-04:00

Thursday night was the Lady's Night Senior Tea on campus. A time to honor all senior ladies who are either graduating or who are Senior Wives who have supported their hubbies through school. It was a special night and a wonderful time of fellowship with these ladies. I will miss each of them dearly, but I am excited to hear the things that God is calling them to. We have some going to Turkey as full time missionaries, some to be pastor's wives, some to help their husband's plant a church, and the list goes on and on.

I didn't get as many pictures as hoped, but enjoy the few that I did snap!

This is Casey and Brook. They've spent the last year to two years working in the daycare watching Nicholas. I know he will miss them dearly!

Ashely & Taylor. They've been with Nicholas at the Day Care since the day we arrived on campus. I hate seeing these two ladies leave. :(

Whittney and her daughter Ella. I love Whittney because every time I see her, she always has such a bright smile on her face. I'll miss having her in the Clinic and taking advantage of all her medical advice. They will be moving to Louisville for Seminary. Maybe we can still sneak in a visit when we're in the area!

GRADUATION NIGHT!

Huge Congrats to all the Seniors!

Nicholas and Ashely

I had to snap a picture of Zachary singing out of the hymnal. This was his first time actually understanding how to read a hymn!

Taylor and Benny Wilson with Zachary and Nicholas. Our families have become quite close over the last couple years and we will miss them dearly.

Baseball

2011-04-29T21:33:00.003-04:00

Spring is in full season, which only means one thing... T-Ball season has begun! Zachary played for two years in Shelbyville, but has missed the passed two summers playing in Pineville. He is playing "machine pitch" this year for the first time! This is also Nicholas' first year playing T-Ball. Both are very "interesting" to watch.

Nicholas has been wanting to play ever since brother has played in Shelbyville. However, Nicholas isn't as fond of it as we would have hoped for. He is having a very hard time understanding that he can't just bat the whole time. He also doesn't understand that the ball doesn't come to you every time while playing in the field. Pretty much, he could care less about the sport right now. We thought he would love it. But, not so much. When the ball doesn't come to him in the field, he drops his shoulders, drops his chin and stomps off of the field! Getting him to stay on the field is a challenge in itself.

Zachary is loving the sport! However, we are not happy with his coach. AT ALL! The coach is way too competitive at this point. The kid is only 6 for crying out loud! Let him have fun. The coach only works with the experienced kids, leaving the new ones out in the cold. How will they ever learn if they are not worked with?!?! We are very frustrated by all this. Zachary sat in the dugout for the majority of his first game. :/ We didn't pay for him to not play. Plus, again, how will he learn if the coach isn't even willing to work with him. We'll end up having a talk with his coach most likely.

Anyways. I'm done venting! Tonight was both of their first games... at the exact same time, which made for an eventful night for mom and dad! One would constantly be working with Nicholas to keep him on the field and away from the bat! While the other would constantly be watching for Zachary to be out of the dugout. Zachary did finally play one inning as catcher!

We are exhausted from running back and forth between fields. My feet are swollen. My hips are killing me. And we are both just flat out pooped! The kids are cleaned up and in bed, Dan's watching the History Channel, and I'm downloading these fun pics for you to view!

Enjoy the pics!

My sweet husband is bringing me a bowl of icecream... time to stop blogging!!! :)

Easter

2011-04-29T21:06:00.007-04:00

Easter was a wonderful weekend! We were able to go home to visit all the family! I believe it stormed the ENTIRE time we were there, which meant egg hunts were all held indoors. (By the way, when we arrived back on campus on Saturday evening before heading to Virginia, it was sunny blue skies!) Anywho! Enjoy the pics!

Egg Hunt at MeeMaw's & PeePaw's

Niece Abby

Nephew Tyler

Nephew AJ

Niece Alyssa

(Love how she says, "Love you Aunt Nikki!") Totally precious!

Niece Scarlett at Nanny & PaPa's

Dan snapped a preggo pic at Grandma's house. (23 weeks)

We were able to have the egg hunt outside before the storms hit on Friday early afternoon at Grandma's house!

Although the eggs are fun and the expressions on the kid's faces are even more fun to watch during all the hunts, I will never minimize the reason we celebrate Easter. I think my Lord for humbling Himself to become flesh, to dwell among us, only to die for us, and to gain victory over sin, death, and hell and give us new hope through His resurrection!! Thank You Lord!

And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! ~ Philippians 2:8

Children's Home

2011-04-14T10:09:00.002-04:00

Yesterday during class, Dan had an amazing experience interviewing two teenagers from the Children's Home in Barboursville. (I'll talk more about the interview in a later post.) However, in this post I have a prayer request regarding these two teens. During the interview, God led the conversation into presenting the gospel. Time was cut off, but I pray that the Holy Spirit was not. I pray that the Lord planted seeds in their hearts and minds. I know of many testimonies where one came to know Christ not at a youth conference, not during a church revival, but in the quietness of their bedroom. Alone. My deep burden and prayer for these two teenagers is that in the quietness of their rooms, the Holy Spirit will continue to speak and convict them, loudly but gently, bringing them to Christ. I pray that noise, distractions, and Satan's lies will flee from them. Please pray for these two teenagers. I don't know their names, but God does.

We're Registered!!!

2011-04-12T09:57:00.002-04:00

Saturday, Dan, Nicholas and I spent the day in Lexington shopping while we waited on Nanny & PaPaw to meet us with Zachary! It was so fun! We started the day by registering at Babies R Us. It's amazing how much stuff someone so little needs! We would've had all these items from the boys, but right before moving to Clear Creek we sold all our baby stuff in a yard sale. Here's what we registered:

Crib

Changing Table (Praise God! We actually may be getting one from a lady at church!)

Pack in Play (a must have due to the trips to Virginia for church each week and the many trips to Shelbyville!)

Car carrier & stroller combination

Homemade Baby Food maker

Nursing supplies

Bottle warmer

Bottle cooler (for traveling)

Bouncing seat

We will be registering at Wal-Mart as well. Here's what we plan on registering there:

Crib Bedding set

Swing

medicines/creams/bathing supplies

diapers & wipes

carrier or a sling

bottles & pacifiers

diaper bag

bibs and burping cloths

high chair (we may wait on this, since we really don't need one until the baby is a few months old???)

We still have a dresser and glider for the nursery that we held on to during the move. All of this has made me extremely excited about welcoming Bryson to our family! I'm ready to begin setting his nursery up!

Planning for baby is SO FUN!

I've Not...

2011-04-08T14:01:00.002-04:00

I've not had a small chocolate milkshake every day this week.

I've not had ice cream for breakfast at all.

I've not gained any excess weight due to my new craving... (We'll see at my next appointment on Wednesday!)

I've not stolen pillows off the kid's beds to help find some physical comfort sleeping at night - on top of the five pillows that I have not already been hoarding!

Dan does not sleep with a rolled up blanket under one pillow for extra cushion!

I didn't cry the other night watching Toy Story 3... for the 100th time!

I didn't burst into tears in the Mexican restaurant during our lunch break.

In fact, I don't cry at all. Ever.

I don't already need help painting my toenails, putting on socks, or shaving my legs!

I don't already wobble a bit at the end of a long day of training.

Nope, cravings haven't tempted me, I'm not a walking water faucet, and I don't have any trouble sleeping at night!! :)

All this said, I really do LOVE being pregnant! Each day is new and exciting - plus it's a great excuse to over indulge in ice cream and milkshakes!

Thank You Lord for a healthy, growing baby that you are forming inside my womb!

Random Picture Update!

2011-04-05T17:14:00.001-04:00

Dan is in class, Zachary is spending some time with Nanny & PaPa during his spring break, and Nicholas is hanging out snacking on Frosted Flakes....

Maybe I can finally sneak some time in to update some pictures - We'll see how long this will last...

A few pics from Zachary's baptism!

Preggo Pic at 18 Weeks

"The Power of the Lord"

2011-04-05T17:06:00.001-04:00

21 Weeks

His name will be...

Bryson Josiah Poe

Josiah.... "The Power of the Lord"

Can't wait to meet our Bryson Josiah!

And this child is.....

2011-03-18T12:55:00.003-04:00

A BOY!!!! Oh my! Three boys!! The Poe Household is about to become a bit more insane in the next few months! Another super hero to be running around! Another to sign up for T-Ball -eventually! More hotwheel cars to be stepped on! More nerf darts to be lost! And lots more hugs, cuddles, and kisses to be given out!!!

Dan and I couldn't be more excited! For months, we've been praying for a healthy baby, and that's exactly what we will be getting! The ultrasound went perfectly! I was a bit nervous going into the room again, and I even began to tear up a bit. I was still feeling pretty nervous during the first few measurements, until the nurse technician showed us the beating heart!!! Oh, the tears began to flow down my cheeks out of pure joy and relief! Such a sweet, wonderful thing to see! After that point, I was really able to fully enjoy seeing our little guy!! The feet - that I can't wait to kiss all over! The hands that I can't wait to hold! The nose, mouth, eyes, and ears! Everything is perfect!

It took a few minutes to see the gender of the baby - his legs were crossed. The nurse would jiggle my belly to get him to move around a bit - it was so funny seeing him move with the bounce of my prego belly! But finally we were able to see a clear picture of his little "turtle" -as the nurse called it! :)

The baby is big! It, no, no, I mean "he" currently weighs 9 ounces, and is measuring in at 19 weeks, instead of 18 weeks. The doctor's may be changing my due date by one week, but they're going to wait and see a bit longer because my 7 week ultrasound was measuring perfectly with an August 17th due date. She said if the baby reaches more than 8 pounds towards the end of my pregnancy, than I can go ahead and plan on being induced. But we'll cross that road when it comes.

So, now it's off to work for me. And time to go fishing for Dan - after he too works for a couple hours!

Can't wait for you all to meet our little guy!! Thanks so much for all your continued prayers! And thank You Lord for a healthy baby boy!!!
Have a wonderul day!

Beginning to Feel Better

2011-03-15T12:27:00.002-04:00

I had an awesome quiet time with the Lord last night! Here is what He taught me...

Psalm 55:16 ~ But I call to God, and the Lord saves me.

Psalm 55:22a ~ Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you.

Isaiah 41:10 ~ So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

I love the thought of intimacy of the Lord holding me in His hand!

Isaiah 41:13 ~ For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

Matthew 6:33 - 34 ~ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 7:7; 7:11 ~ Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!

Philippians 4:6-7 ~ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

1 Peter 5:6-11 ~ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

I really liked the verses in 1 Peter. Think about it. For me this is what the Lord spoke to me through the verses. After we lost Thomas, Dan and I prayed daily together that God would bless us with another baby. Well here we are. He has given exactly what we asked of Him and the devil is prowling around stealing my joy, faith and excitement. I need to resist him and stand firm in the Lord during this time!

Isaiah 35:4a ~ Say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear."

He left me with this before going to sleep last night....

Psalm 4:8 ~ I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.

I slept so good last night! And in the past couple days, I've been feeling more movement from the baby! Thank You Lord! And thanks to all of you for your continued love and prayers! I'll update again on Friday!

General Randomness!

2011-03-15T10:05:00.002-04:00

I have many scattered thoughts that I would like to share so...

MmMm...

Last weekend was a great weekend! Friday night was a relaxing night at home with the boys. They are both really into this pregnancy! I often ask them if they want a baby brother or a baby sister. Nicholas always responds by saying, "he wants a baby sister because he already has a brother." Zachary has responded in a couple different ways. One, saying, "he wants a baby sister so that he doesn't have another annoying baby brother!" This response always throws me off just a bit coming from him because he has always been such a good big brother towards Nicholas and they hardly ever fight. I think it may be his age! The other response is, "I want a baby sister because I already have two brothers." :( (Referring to Thomas Spencer). I thought it was sweet!

We received our first nursery gift from one of the kids in our Children's Church. Autumn is 7 and she gave us two of those little shakeable globe thingies. One is blue and green, the other is pink and purple. Nicholas will often run to the spare bedroom and grab them and shake them in front of my belly to show the baby his/her gifts from Autumn!! I LOVE IT!! Nicholas is so sincere as he is doing it and he is so sweet! All of the kids in Children's Church say I must have a little girl!

Saturday, we came to Shelbyville to drop Nicholas off at Nanny and PaPaws. Spring Break has started for Dan and Clear Creek is shut down for the week. Other than the Physical Plant - where Dan works. We had no child care for the week, so Nicholas is hanging out with Nanny and PaPaw - and I miss him dearly! Can't wait to have him back home with us.

Saturday night we ate the salad bar at Cattleman's (YUM!!!) and we were able to attend church at SECC!!! Man, how we miss our home church! We ended up running into a couple of our really good friends whom we had not seen since we moved to Clear Creek. It was so great seeing them again! After hanging out in the cafe for a bit, we headed back home to Pineville.

We spent the day shopping in Kingsport on Sunday in between church! It was a beautiful day outside and of course, shopping is always fun!

People have been asking me for a few weeks what I'm craving during this pregnancy, and up until last week I wasn't really craving anything specifically. But. I have found it!! STRAWBERRIES! Blueberries! Cantaloupe! Plums! Nectarines! Mmmmm... YUM.MO! I can't get enough of this stuff! Especially strawberries. I stock up quite often from the local farmer's market!

Dan has registered for next semester's classes, and Lord willing, we may be completed with CCBBC in one year to a year and a half!!! A little earlier than planned - no complaints here! Dan and I are SO ready to leave this area. In recent weeks, we have gotten a major passion for leaving this area! We often have been daydreaming about the possibilities that God may call us to.... Seminary in Louisville - awesome!!, Seminary in Dallas, TX - that would be pretty cool! Coming back home to Shelbyville and working on a youth conference?!?! Being on staff at SECC?!?! Seminary in Wake Forest, NC?!?! Puerto Rico for deaf ministry?? Mission work in Guatemala??? Awe... the possibilities! I can't wait to see where the Lord leads us to next. Stay tuned in the coming months!

I think I may have shared with some, that God has called us to adopt a deaf child in the coming years! We're thinking when we're about 30 - our hearts are really with a Chinese baby, but we've not received confirmation on that yet. We have started to take sign language classes and it. is. hard.! Signing to music and speaking in sign language are two totally different things! I have signed to music since I was a teenager and I taught it to our youth groups of the past, but trying to communicate in it is much more difficult than I anticipated. We've got a long way to go if we're adopting a hearing impaired child in four years! Lord be with us! :)

Well, I think I'm done blabbering randomness! I hope you guys all have a very blessed day! Love and miss everyone dearly!

Overcome with Fear... Again

2011-03-09T16:21:00.002-05:00

I'm 17 1/2 weeks pregnant now, and I am finding that fear is taking over again. I'm nearing the week that we lost Thomas and I think because of that, I keep replaying that whole experience in my head over and over again. I'm feeling more and more anxious about the ultrasound next week.

I know my faith should be stronger than this, but at the moment, I'm struggling. Please keep me and the baby in your prayers. Please pray that the Lord will send peace to me and pray for a healthy baby!

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 4:6-7

I pray that my mind will be guarded and have peace.

I Do Not Believe in Coincidence!

2011-03-04T12:33:00.000-05:00

I am amazed how the Lord works. He has planned every second of our lives and He can take and use the smallest things and bring forth something indescribable and amazing!

Currently, He is taking two conversations from the past and is bringing them back up to the service. In addition, He is finally putting some of my calling into action!

In August, I began meeting with Patty. She is a godly woman with tons of wisdom. God called her to create a Bible study for the women on campus which led her to writing her first book. During the summer, God confirmed my calling to the women’s ministry, so in August I approached Patty and asked her to be my mentor. We began meeting and during one of our first few visits together, I shared with her some of my journal entries about a particular sin that I had been struggling with and how God was beginning to bring healing, deliverance and victory over the sin. During our conversation Patty mentioned that “we should get together sometime and create a lesson based on what I shared with her.” I remember thinking to myself, yeah that would be cool to do one day, but we didn’t dwell on it and we moved on into other conversations and continued to meet regularly. During the holidays Patty and I took a short break from meeting together, and that’s when God began to speak. He continued to resurface that particular moment of conversation over and over again. I began to think and pray about it often, but I never approached Patty about it. Until two weeks ago! God finally pushed me enough and it was as if He basically shouted at me, “I’m not done with this!” I brought the conversation up with Patty and asked her to pray about creating a lesson in regards to that past conversation.

Last night we were able to meet and she shared a story that brought chills to me. This week a young mom approached Patty, confessing the same sin that I had struggled with. Patty said, that at that moment God plainly showed her that we are to do this lesson together, and not only are we to do it for the women on campus, but for the community and local churches!

What happened after Patty shared that story with me is almost indescribable. God opened the flood gates! Patty and I looked like a couple of mad women searching the Scriptures and making notes. God instantly poured into us and began overflowing us with thoughts and ideas for this lesson! It’s going to be a great thing and I am so excited to see how God is going to move and restore lives!

I love how God is finally taking and using my experience as a Trainer at CUB and using the numerous things I learned and the fears that He gave me the strength to overcome and is putting those toward the ministry and my calling! I can’t explain the joy in “brainstorming” to create a Bible study and a lesson that God wants delivered!

The second conversation that God is resurfacing took place about three years ago! Dan and I were having dinner with a couple of friends. One of which we had just met and didn’t know very well. We happened to share a burden and a passion of ours to hold a youth conference in Shelby County. Again, not really thinking much about the conversation, we were all just kind of talking and during that time it was a heavy burden and a strong calling in mine and Dan’s lives. So, we shared about it that night.

After that night, Dan and I lost contact with one that was at dinner that night. God ended up calling Dan and I to Clear Creek, and we sort of stopped pursuing to do a youth conference in Shelbyville. Occasionally, throughout the past two years, God would bring that conversation back to my memory. I would think of it here and there and daydream about the possibilities, but I would always brush it to the side, simply because we’re currently not living in Shelbyville.

This past weekend changed that “brushing to the side” though. The one at dinner who we didn’t know very well, who we lost contact with after that night, and who we have not spoken to since that night, contacted us asking if we still have a burden and passion to do a youth conference in Shelbyville!!!! Of course we do!

I have no idea what God is going to bring of this, but I know He’s going to bring something. I know that He’s not finished with that conversation that started three years ago as we were all just aimlessly chowing down on pizza that night! And I know that He’ll see it to completion! (Philippians 1:6)

I am blown away at the way our God works. How He places and plans every second and moment of our lives. How He plants seeds in the most subtle ways. How He can take a simple statement or a conversation and when we think nothing of it, He brings it forth in His timing and says, “Get ready my children. I’m not done with this yet!”

being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 1:6

Quick Update

2011-02-28T12:25:00.003-05:00

I had an appointment on the 23rd and everything went well! I'm 16 weeks along now and when we heard the heartbeat it was steady at 152. My blood pressure was good. My weight gain is ok (I've gained a total of 9 pounds now), and on March 18th we have the ultrasound scheduled! Please continue to pray for a healthy baby! I'm becoming extremely nervous about the ultrasound however, because that was when we lost Thomas.

I'm finding comfort in His Word though.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. ~ Philippians 4:6

When I said, "My foot is slipping," your love, O LORD, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul. ~ Psalm 94:18-19

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." ~ Joshua 1:9

Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. ~ Matthew 6:34

Tons of people are asking me if I want a girl - I still really don't care! I just want a baby!!

Christmas Pics!

2011-02-22T18:30:00.008-05:00

Well, we're nearing the end of February and I'm just now getting Christmas pictures on here! Hope you enjoy!

We had a wonderful Christmas on campus!

White Christmas at Clear Creek!

When we came home from Shelbyville we had about 10 inches!

It was beautiful!

Christmas at MeeMaw's & PeePaw's! (My parents)

MeeMaw with my nieces Allyssa, Abby, and Tyler

My niece Audrey

Alyssa

Christmas at Grandma's! (My mom)

Christmas at Nanny and PaPa's. (Dan's parents)

Scarlett, Brandon, Zachary, Bradley, Maddison, and Nicholas

Dan and niece Maddison! (Love this pic!)

It's A Small World After All...

2011-02-10T08:45:00.002-05:00

Last night I was talking to a friend on campus and we started talking about our hometowns. She mentioned living in California for a while. She and her husband lived in Long Beach, CA for a while (Newport area - BEAUTIFUL area! Beaches, the coast, people roller blading everywhere, shopping... LOVE that area!) Anywho... Her husband was born in Lancaster, CA and they bought their first house there together before moving to Utah. I partly grew up in Palmdale - which is Lancaster's neighbor! (Compare it to a Middletown and Louisville, or Bagdad and Shelbyville, or Pineville and Middlesboro.) Anyways. As I began telling her that we lived in Tehachapi and my family still lives in Corona, Rancho Cucamongo, Cosa Mesa, Riverside, Newport, it was so cool speaking to someone who knew where these places were!!

And, in January some guy moved to Clear Creek as our new computer tech guy. This guy happens to be the son of a lady who I used to work with at CUB! How crazy is that?!?! This lady was always so sweet and so kind. Her son and I talk about CUB at times and I tell him how much I miss it.

It's such a small world!!

Sharon

2011-02-08T15:17:00.002-05:00

Please pray for Sharon. (I would post a picture, but for safety reasons, I can't) She graduated from Clear Creek in May and is now serving in Asia as an undercover missionary. Sharon is about 22 or 23, single, and is so full of life and has one of the best personalities that I know. We were able to communicate with her via WebCast last Friday night at our women's ministry event. During the 30 minute WebCast, my eyes were opened about mission work, my heart broke, and it was a moving moment that I will never forget. First of all, we were only able to speak to her because at the time she was in Thailand for a seminar. Before the WebCast began, a seriousness hit the air which is normally filled with joy and laughter. We were told that we absolutely could not say the word(s) "missions", "missionary", "journeyman", "God", "Lord", "Jesus" or anything of the sort. When Sharon came on, she just began waving, crying, and didn't speak a word for a few moments. It was such a sweet moment. She's been in Asia since October, and for the first time she's been able to "see" loved ones again. Imagine that moment. She was speechless.

The general conversation topics were the food, what she misses most about the states, the weather in Asia, and she talked a lot about how excited she is about starting at the University soon. (She is in Asia as an "English major") The stories she told were hilarious and unforgettable! Especially the stories of the food adventures that she's experience!

But what moved me was simply this: Whenever she spoke of the area that she is living in her words were always, "My area", "my apartment in my area". She cannot say the city that she is living in. She's undercover. No one can truly know why she is there. She can't even speak of her where she lives.

You know the joy of the Lord is in her. She's doing His will, living out His calling and the purpose of her being. But you could see a bit of loneliness and sadness in her as well. And that broke my heart for her. Living a secret life. BUT. Living for the Lord! AMEN to that!

She did mention, "that a few have converted". (She has to state this very general, as this phrase could be for Buddhism, Muslim, or anything.) She says it is very difficult in her area because people in that area are so education and career driven. Far more than we could ever imagine. "One wants to convert. But she can't because she has signed a contract through her job stating that she will not participate in any religious practice." "One did convert. And after going home and telling her family, they said she couldn't because then she wouldn't take care of them." "Another won't convert because then he wouldn't be accepted into the University that he needs to go to." Sharon also shared, "It's not like the states. People go to conferences or revivals and make a decision right then. It could take months, or even years for someone to make a decision. Their thinking is so intellectual. Everything is a thought process. You never just make a decision without considering all costs. If you don't go to the best schools, or Universities or if don't get the best career... You're banned from your family. It's everything here."

But praise God that "a few have converted"!!

I had no idea of life like this. I know all cultures are different. But I guess until you see it, in this case through Sharon, you don't really realize it and the difficulties that believers face.

After we met with her we sang my favorite worship song, In Christ Alone. On Christ the Solid Rock. But this time it was different singing it. God really laid Sharon on my heart. Christ is ALL Sharon has right now. Here are the words to the song:

In Christ alone. My hope is found.
He is my light, my strength, my song.
This Cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace;
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease;
My Comforter, my All in All,
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone, who took on flesh,
Fullness of God in helpless babe.
This gift of love and righteousness,
Scorned by the ones He came to save.
‘Til on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied.
For every sin on Him was laid,
Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay.
Light of the world by darkness slain.
Then bursting forth in glorious Day,
Up from the grave He rose again!
And as He stands in victory,
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me.
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

On Christ the solid Rock I stand.
All other ground is sinking sand.
All other ground is sinking sand.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand.
All other ground is sinking sand.
All other ground is sinking sand.

No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me.
From life’s first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand.
‘Til He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand!

I pray that God will work through Sharon. That He will protect her from fear and loneliness. Please guide her, use her, and speak through her. I pray that the people of Asia will come to know the Lord and His mighty power. Lord please keep her strong and faithful and may she stand firm on Your truth.

Please pray for Sharon.

I PROMISE....

2011-02-03T14:04:00.004-05:00

A major update is coming soon. I AM SO SORRY of how badly I have been slacking with this thing. There is a TON of stuff that I have been wanting to update everyone on, but just haven't really had much time to do so. Dan has a few night classes during the week, so the laptop hasn't been home with me lately. It's becoming more and more difficult to regularly update this thing.

Here are some updates that I can share w/o pictures - as yes, I'm at work typing this up. :/ Gotta find time somehow, right?

Well, Zachary was baptized on November 14th! It was incredible! Dan was able to baptize him, which made it even more incredible because this was Dan's first baptism! It was precious! I am so proud of Zachary and Dan! I hope to get video on here soon. I will never forget that day!

Thanksgiving and Christmas were wonderful! We went home for both holidays this year. It was so great seeing everyone and we had a very good time! I took an extra day off work for Black Friday, so Dan and I were up at the crack of dawn and went shopping in Louisville! It was such a fun day! Dan and I don't get too many breaks away from the kids, work, and school anymore, so this time with my husband was wonderful! We shopped until about lunch time and everything we bought was on sale and we got everything on our list that we were hoping to get! It was a very accomplished shopping day!

Dan completed his first J Term in January and passed it with an A! YAY for Dan! Super proud of him! Now he's in full swing into this semester and is doing great! He's gotten ahead this semester by completing assignments early that were on his syllabus. He's really enjoying this semester so far!

The boys are doing great also! They are getting so big and so grown up! Zachary is still doing great in school and he's now playing basketball with a league at his elementary school. It's hilarious watching these little guys play! They are all so clueless about the game! It's great! Nicholas is really beginning to grow up a lot. I think he's pretty much completely out of the toddler stage. Which is kind of a relief for us honestly - his temper tantrums have pretty much gone away!! Man, this little guy could throw them too! He's really calmed down a lot in recent months. I think 4 is going to be a good age!

As for me, well... one HUGE update that I've been dieing to get on here is......... I AM PREGNANT!!!! AHHH!!! YES! Totally prego! I've been to the doctor a few times now and so far all is good! I had my first ultrasound at 7 weeks, and we heard the heartbeat at that time. It was at 161. Oh what a beautiful sound! I'll never take it for granted again, that's for sure! At my last appointment we heard it again and it was 131. It made me a bit nervous that it was so much lower, but the nurse assured me that all was fine that it was higher at 7 weeks because we heard it through the ultrasound which picks it up more. Now I am 12 1/2 weeks and still feeling extremely tired and staying pretty sick, pretty much ALL the time. (Another reason for the slacking on the blog - just so you know!)

Dan and I began trying for a baby pretty much right after we lost Thomas. We lost him in May and as soon as we got the ok from the dr, we began trying for another baby. After months of negative pregnancy tests, finally one came up positive! At the beginning of December, we discovered that we were expecting! It was an amazing moment for me. I had a really bad cold - which later I discovered was actually the flu - and I needed to take some medicine. Before taking any medicine, I had this strange feeling to take a test, just in case. Not expecting at all to be pregnant, because honestly, at this point I had become a bit discouraged about becoming pregnant again because it was taking a while to become pregnant. But anyways, on my lunch break I ran to the store, bought some meds and bought a test. Went into the women's restroom at work and to my sweet unexpected surprise, there were two terrific, wonderful lines that appeared!!!! Oh my goodness! My soul just leaped! I began crying! Laughing! Thanking God out loud! Saying, "Oh! My God!" repeating over and over again! I must have stayed in that bathroom for like 20 minutes just in awe! Well, I didn't take the medicine! And as soon as I got home that day I shared the wonderful news with Dan. We both cried, prayed, and just took in the sweet moment together.

Over the next several weeks, I became very nervous about being pregnant. It was so strange. Even though this had been exactly what we had been praying for for months, this overwhelming fear came over me. After the initial excitement of discovering that I was pregnant, all of a sudden this fear just took over all excitement that was in me. I did not ever want to go through the pain and heartache of loosing another child ever again. Now that I'm getting farther along, I am more excited again than I am nervous. I think I'll feel completely better after I pass that 18 week mark. But the thoughts of the 18 week ultrasound just freezes me in fear again. So. I try to just not think about it.

I am due on August 17th! People are already asking us if we hope for a girl this time. My answer is always, "I don't care what we have. I just want a baby!" But I am looking forward to knowing for sure what we're having! If it's a girl her name will be Brittany Elizabeth - named after a former youth of ours who is very dear to us, Brittany Lee Austin! If it's a boy, we like the name Bryson, but we're not completely sold on it yet.

haaa, well, the major update is finally on here! I promise, I will try very hard to update with some pictures and Zachary's baptism video soon.

Until next time.....

Our Refrigerator has gone KIRPLUNK!

2011-01-07T14:36:00.002-05:00

Yep, in recent months the water heater broke, we have a broken, aka leaking, ceiling, our kitchen floor is all lumpy, and now the fridge has decided to join the party. Grrrr..... Anything else care to join the party?!?!

BUT. Praise God through all this. Because of our loving church who gave us a pounding last week we have had plenty of soups and "unrefrigerated" items that we've been able to eat AND because of the cash amount that was given we have the money to buy a new refrigerator! I love how He provides!!

Thank You Lord!

What's A Pounding?

2010-12-20T16:16:00.010-05:00

That, is a Pounding!!

Apparently, it's a pretty common thing around here. The church reaches out and gives "A Pound" of everything! Don't laugh too hard, but when I first heard the phrase, "A Pounding" I thought literally, a pounding! It is now the new inside joke of our Sunday School class!

Here's what we got!

275 Paper Plates (individually, that is)

150 Napkins

110 Paper Cups

23 Cans of veggies

16 Rolls of tp

15 Rolls of Paper Towels

13 Cans of Soup

8 Packs of Juices

8 Cans of canned Fruit

7 bars of soap

6 Fresh Oranges

5 Cans of Vienna Sausages (I won't be eating these, but Dan says that they are great for hiking, so I am still very thankful!)

5 Boxes of Zip lock Bags

4 Cans of Chef Boyardee

4 Boxes of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Snacks

4 Boxes of Pasta

4 boxes of pudding

4 boxes of Pop Tarts

3 Bottles of Dish Soap

3 Jars of Homemade Apple Butter (Yum!)

2 Bags of Sugar

2 Boxes of Cling Wrap

2 Jugs of Laundry Detergent

2 Boxes of Cereal

2 Fresh Apples

2 Fresh Tangerines

2 Jars of Pasta Sauce

2 bags of Baking Chocolate

1 Jar of Ketchup

1 Jar of Mayo

1 Jar of Turkey Gravy

1 box of Trash Bags

1 Box of Cake Mix

1 Box of Hamburger Helper

1 Box of Kleenexes

1 Box of Fabric Softener

1 opened Tub of Lemonade! (yes, opened! But that's ok!)

some cash (I won't share the amount, but let's just say it was a HUGE blessing and never expected!)

and a handful of Hot Wheel Cars for the boys!!

Thank You Lord for providing all these supplies for us! And thank You for a church who You have called into action and who moved when You called!

Now, the only question is... Where in the world am I going to put all this?!?!

Hipp Hipp Horray!!

2010-12-11T16:04:00.003-05:00

It's fixed! The hard drive in the laptop crashed, but we were able to get a new one and now, it's fixed! YAY! Looking forward to updating this thing. I would do it now, but I have an awful cold and really just don't feel like it right now!

A quick little update though...

3 Semesters Down, 5 To Go!!!

Dan just wrapped up his semester! This one's been a doozy! It seems like this semester particularly has been much harder on everyone. Dan will begin his next semester early with a J-Term. (A J-Term is when a full semester's class is wrapped up in just one week!) Pray for him! I know he'll do great!

Reassurance

2010-12-06T14:41:00.002-05:00

About 6 months ago, I began to question if Clear Creek was really the place that God called us to. Did we hear Him correctly? Was this what He really wanted for our lives? During our first year here we have gone through more hardships than ever before. The struggles of trying to sell a home, tons of financial difficulties, and loosing a child to name a few. All these were extreme moments in our lives that really tested our faith and really broke our hearts. Our minds were filled with thoughts of doubts and questions.

I LOVE when He reassures us! Here's what I mean:

- We had a student account balance of almost $4,000.
- We would have had to of paid the $4,000 by December in order to continue an education at Clear Creek.
- 2 months ago, we mysteriously received a scholarship (that Dan did NOT apply for) and the account balance was taken down to about $700.00!
- Dan registered for the Spring semester.
- We need to pay about $200.00 down to begin in January.
(Each semester costs about $5200.00)
- Found out on Friday, that the $700.00 we owed has been PAID OFF!
- Also found out on Friday, that our housing expenses for the entire Spring semester has been PAID IN FULL!
- Also found out... for the Spring Semester we will only have to pay $168.00!!!! Tuition, housing, the whole thing!!!

It's as if He is saying, "I want you here." "I called you here." "Stay put." "Trust Me." "Yes, I want you here!"

Thank You Lord!!

"Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." ~Philippians 1:6

Please, Don't Stop Reading!!!

2010-12-02T08:38:00.003-05:00

I'm typing this post up quickly at work, because our laptop has officially CRASHED. Major bummer, especially for Dan, being that finals begin next week. :/

I know I've been slacking on postings on here, I do apologize. I have SO MUCH that I want to update everyone on, but it may be a while - at least until we can save up for a new laptop, or hook up our other computer to the internet.

Please don't stop reading our blog! Please keep checking back periodically for some cool and exciting updates!

Here's what you can look forward to:

Updates from Thanksgiving
More Fall Fun Pictures
Thomas Spencer's Due Date
A WONDERFUL surprise we recieved recently
Zachary's Baptism!!
An update on Children's Ministry position
And LOTS more!

Love you guys! Thanks for your continued prayers for us as we go through our journey!

CYA!

Nicole

I LOVE THE FALL!!

2010-11-13T15:04:00.011-05:00

I LOVE the fall in Pine Mountain! It is SO beautiful and there are so many great activities for the family! Fall Festivals, Corn Mazes, Zip Lines, Pumpkin Patches, Hay Rides, and not to mention the breath taking colors of the mountains! Enjoy the pics!

Have you ever tried a Fried Oreo? Welcome to Southeast Ky! Oh, by the way.. it was gross! :)

So, the question is...

2010-10-30T21:32:00.000-04:00

What did I get out of all this eat pray and love stuff? Confirmation. Confirmation in regards to women's ministry. Through His strength, I am beginning to break up my unplowed ground in many different ways. And I am here to tell you - anyone who reads this - that I am surrendering my life to Christ and to women's ministries. I've had the call for about a year, year and a half now. But I am fully committed now. He keeps slapping it in my face time and time again. He slapped it during this conference, and He did it once again two weeks following this conference at our women's ministry night on campus. Thank You Jesus for Your gentle but firm slaps! We need em' time to time!

So please pray for me as I break up my unplowed ground. It will be painful. I know this. I will be revealing things that no one has ever known about me before. But I must go through these deserts, so that He may use me and that He may be glorified!

Memorize:

2010-10-30T21:26:00.002-04:00

EAT #1:

I brought you into a fertile land to eat its fruit. - Jeremiah 2:7a

EAT #2:

When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight. - Jeremiah 15:16

PRAY #1:

You will call upon Me and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. - Jeremiah 29:12

PRAY #2:

Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.

-Jeremiah 3:33

LOVE #1:

I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. -Jeremiah 31:3

LOVE #2:

Give thanks to the Lord Almighty, for the Lord is good; His love endures forever. -Jeremiah 33:11

LOVE

2010-10-30T20:29:00.003-04:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to get all my notes on here from the Beth Moore conference. So far, we've talked about EAT where the main focus was about entering your desert and allowing God to take you there and walk you through it and to "break up your unplowed ground". The PRAY session focused on being the miracle that God wants to use and not to allow Satan use the bad stuff in your life to bring destruction but to turn it and allow God to use it for something beautiful and glorifying to Him.

Now, let's talk about the LOVE session!

EAT, PRAY, LOVE

But the Greatest of these is Love!

Jeremiah 31:1-6

"At that time," declares the Lord, "I will be the God of all the clans of Israel, and they will be my people." This is what the Lord says: "The people who survive the sword will find favor in the desert; I will come to give rest to Israel." The Lord appeared to us in the past saying, "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel. Again you will take up your tambourines and go out to dance with the joyful. Again you will plant vineyards on the hills of Samaria; the farmers will plant them and enjoy their fruit. There will be a day when watchmen cry out on the hills of Ephraim, 'Come, let us go up to Zion, to the Lord our God.'"

Focus on verse 3 - We have everlasting life because we have everlasting love from Him!! Before mom and dad met, before the creation of the world, HE LOVED ME!! He positioned me right in the generation that He wanted me to serve!!

How do we go from "Hitters" (pushing everyone away) to "Embracers"? WE MUST LOVE!!

1 John 4:16-18 (Focus on verse 18)

And so we know and rely on the love of God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgement, because in this world we are like Him. (18) There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears in not made perfect in love.

WE HAVE GOT TO SHAKE OFF FEAR!!

Jeremiah 12:5(?)

"If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out, how can you compete with horses? If you stumble in safe country, how will you manage in the thickets by the Jordan?"

***The root of fear is the doubt of everlasting love.

Jeremiah 2:13

"My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water."

When we put our faith in ANYONE or ANYTHING besides Jesus, we are trying to fill an empty cup.

In Jeremiah 31:4 - referred to as, "O Virgin Israel." Previously called "Prostitute Israel." True purity restoration!!

Jeremiah 31:31-33

"The time is coming," declares the Lord, "When I will make a new covenant with the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their forefathers when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them," declares the Lord. "This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time," declares the Lord. "I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God and they will be my people."

"I will write it on their hearts!" The Word is not bondage and rules, but freedom and love! Some will not be freed because they don't want to be free. Some are stubborn, and don't want to let go of control!

*We have a broken "want to". Pray for God's healing of your "want to". The new covenant is that your "want to" CHANGES! THEY ARE WRITTEN ON YOUR HEART!!

Jeremiah 33:6-16

" 'Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security. I will bring Judah and Israel back from captivity and will rebuild them as they were before. I will cleanse them from all the sin they have committed against me and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against me. Then this city will bring me renown, joy, praise and honor before all nations on earth that hear of all the good things I do for it; and they will be in awe and will tremble at the abundant prosperity and peace I provide for it.'

" ' This is what the Lord says: 'You say about this place, "It is a desolate waste, without men or animals." Yet in the towns of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem that are deserted, inhabited by neither men nor animals, there will be heard once more the sounds of joy and gladness, the voices of bride and bridegroom, and the voices of those who bring thank offerings to the house of the Lord saying,

"Give thanks to the Lord Almighty, for the Lord is good; His love endures forever." For I will restore the fortunes of the land as they were before,' says the Lord.

"This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'In this place, desolate and without men or animals- in all its towns there will again be pastures for shepherds to rest their flocks. In the towns of the hill country, of the western foothills and of the Negev, in the territory of Benjamin, in the villages around Jerusalem and in the towns of Judah, flocks will again pass under the hand of the one who counts them,' says the Lord.

" 'The days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I will fulfill the gracious promise I made to the house of Israel and to the house of Judah.

" 'In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David's line; he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which will be called: The Lord Our Righteousness.'

***Give thanks to Lord for His love endures forever!!

At the end of the day, His love endures!

After all we've been through, you're gonna let "that little thing" get you? Rather "that little thing" be a harsh word from someone or a bad day at work- don't let it get to you. His love still endures!! WE HAVE BIGGER BATTLES! GET OVER YOURSELF!

TO DO: Log all things good that you're thankful for each night!

Jeremiah 45:5

"Should you then seek great things for yourself? Seek them not. For I will bring disaster on all people." declares the Lord, "but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life."

**You're own self absorption is your biggest problem and the biggest destruction!

BECOME A SERVANT! THIS IS YOUR GREATNESS!

Tornado Touch Down in Middlesboro

2010-10-28T09:19:00.001-04:00

With Tuesday's storms, a F1 Tornado touched down in Middlesboro, KY. (About 15 minutes from campus). Here's a view.

SHAME ON ME

2010-10-28T07:53:00.002-04:00

For complaining about our water leaking, mildew smelling cottage, when we are not even the ones who have to fix it or worry about it financially (other than the washer). Clear Creek's Maitenance Crew will fix the leaking roof, water heater, and the kitchen floor. Shame on me for complaining when there are people in the world who do not have a home, who are out in the cold or living in shelters. Shame on me for ever complaining and whining.

I guess yesterday was just a bad day, and I apologize for being so ungrateful.

I give thanks to my Lord for providing us a home on campus where we still have plenty of room to grow, we're not too crowded, a home where He has already created many memories for us, a home where we are safe, a home where we are comfortable, and I'm thankful to Him for just giving us, well, a home!

Our Cottage

2010-10-27T17:43:00.002-04:00

is falling apart. We have a leaking roof, a broken water heater which backed up beneath the kitchen floor, which now has to be torn up completely and replaced, and now, this morning our washer busted - which made the mildewy kitchen floor all the more worse. Now, Dan is off to the dorms laundry room to finish up the load that was in the washer.

Today is one of those days that I really miss home. :(

EAT PRAY LOVE

2010-10-18T16:50:00.000-04:00

PRAY

A couple weeks ago I started posting my notes from the Beth Moore "Living Proof" Conference. I completed the EAT session. Here are my notes from the PRAY session:

Jeremiah 29:10 - 14

This is what the Lord says, "When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my gracious promise to bring you back to this place. For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."

* All discipline from God is to bring us closer to Him!

* Nothing is to master us, except for the freedom of Christ!!

(Jeremiah 29:11) For I know the plans I have for you....

Greek word for know is "boule" which means: "I think about the plans I have for you..."!!! He THINKS about everything before it goes into action! Every little moment! HE NEVER MISSES!! ***If you are struggling, there is a greater joy that He has planned for you!!!

He is 100% pure, holy, and righteous! He knows the plans for you! "He knows what He's doin' !"

His plan is beautiful!!!

For instance... abuse. Satan uses it for destruction. God uses it for glory and for something beautiful!! Make Satan sorry for trying to destruct!!

Jeremiah 29:12 You will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.

* Instead of instant healing, He wants us to KNOW the Healer. To truly seek Him, and to trust His plans for us. Jeremiah 29:13 Seek Me with all your heart. You cannot and will not be freed unless you seek Him with all your heart! Why with all your heart? Jeremiah 3:10 In spite of all this, her unfaithful sister Judah did not return to me with all her heart, but only in pretense, " declares the Lord. She did not learn from what the Northern Kingdom had just gone through.

**11,000 people attended this conference. What if 11,000 people let go of their game?!?!! STOP THE PRETENDING!!! STOP THE DECEPTION! LET GO! Any part of us that is "a show" is the part of us that is in bondage.

Jeremiah 17:7-9 But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heats come; it leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?

Be careful where your confidence is. Verse 9 is a warning: The heart is deceitful.

Deceitful: Hebrew word: aqab = torturous! The heart is torturous! The word aqab also means "crooked". How many times are we our own worst enemy? God's plan for us is to walk a straight line, but the heart is crooked. Our problem is NOT a knowledge problem, but an OBEDIENCE problem!

*Any part of your heart that is not given to God will lead to oppression and destruction. Give your desert to God!! Let Him in the area that you wouldn't allow Him to go!!

*You know your heart is deceitful by the words that are on your lips. This is a stronghold of deception.

*The heart is gravely ill and dangerously sick. It's what seeds our personality.

Jeremiah 7:9-10 Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal and follow other gods you have not known, and then come and stand before Me in this house, which bears My Name, and say, "we are safe" - safe to all these detestable things?

DON'T SAY YOU'RE DELIVERED IF YOU'RE NOT!!! The fastest way to get delivered is to admit that you're not delivered!!

Jeremiah 30:12-13; 30:17 This is what the Lord says: "Your wound is incurable, your injury beyond healing. There is no one to plead your cause, no remedy for your sore, no healing for you." ( Verse 17: "But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, "declares the Lord, "because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares."

Back up to Verse 14: "All your allies have forgotten you; they care nothing for you. I have struck you as an enemy would and punished you as would the cruel, because your guilt is so great and your sins so many."

*The allies are our idols and false peace!!!! "But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds!!!!!!" (vs 17) On this day, let Jesus restore you to health and heal your wounds!!

Jeremiah 2:25 Do not run until your feet are bare and your throat is dry. But you said, "It's no use! I love foreign gods, and I must go after them."

Jeremiah 18:11 "Now therefore say to the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem, "This is what the Lord says: Look! I am preparing a disaster for you and devising a plan against you. So turn from your evil ways, each one of you, and reform your ways and your actions."

In both of the above verses, the people have said, "It's no use!" They have accepted their bondage. - Give your desert to God! How comfortable are the words, "It's no use" on your lips?

Jeremiah 32:17 "Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you."

** NOTHING IS TOO HARD FOR HIM!! YOU ARE THE MIRACLE HE WANTS TO USE!! Amen!! Thank You Jesus!!

Tell everyone about the pit that you have been in, so that JESUS CAN BE GLORIFIED AND CAN USE THE MIRACLE HE CREATED!!

God's phone number: Jeremiah 3:33 "Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

Do you want an adventure? Follow Jesus!

Pic Upload Part Two

2010-10-16T15:52:00.006-04:00

We tried out a different trail in Pine Mountain - The Honeymoon Trail! It was a beautiful trail, which led to this waterfall! They say it's best after it rains. When we took the trail, it hadn't rained in a few days.

Took a break on the trail and made a cross from the sticks!!

Major Pic Upload Part One!!

2010-10-16T15:40:00.004-04:00

Taking a walk around campus on a beautiful day while Dan is at home working on school work.

September 30, 2010

2010-10-12T15:14:00.000-04:00

IS A GREAT DAY!!!!

From the words of Zachary - at 6 years old:

"When you're a Christian you pray, obey your parents, follow Jesus and God, read your Bible and love Jesus. Jesus died for us because of our sin. To go to Heaven you have to give your life to Jesus and He takes away your sin. ALL of your sin. Without Jesus, you go to Hell, where Jesus is not."

This morning, as Dan was getting Nicholas ready for the day and he was being the typical 3 year old and was putting up a fight while getting dressed for the day. Zachary went into our room to pray for Daddy and Nicholas - that God would help Dad get Nicholas' shirt on him. Zachary came to me with the sweetest voice and told me that while he was asking God to help Daddy and Nicholas, he also asked Jesus to come into his life!!!!

But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and said to them, "Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ~ Mark 10:14

and said, "Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. ~ Matthew 18:3

Zachary will be baptized in about a month and Dan has the honor and privilege of baptizing him!! It will be Dan's first baptism!

Grab Your Bibles...

2010-09-29T20:30:00.000-04:00

Now! Before reading this post!

Over the next few days I want to post my notes from the Beth Moore Living Proof Conference. The message from His Word was powerful - and I want others to learn from it and be spoke to. The posts will be long as I will type out all the Scriptures - just in case you don't have a Bible handy! So please, bear with me and get ready for a lot of flipping through the Scriptures!

Be still. Have no distractions, so that God may speak to you!

Friday, August 13, 2010

EAT - PRAY - LOVE

Tonight, the biggest chick flick movie premieres! Eat, Pray, Love. It is a movie in essence about a woman in search of everything! In search of a god, but not the God.

In the book of Jeremiah, a woman travels all of Israel, Egypt and Exile in search of everything!

- Jeremiah -

EAT - PRAY - LOVE

EAT

Jeremiah 2:1-7

"The word of the Lord came to me: "Go and proclaim in the hearing of Jerusalem: " ' I remember the devotion of your youth, how as a bride you loved me and followed me through the desert, a land not sown. Israel was holy to the Lord, the firstfruits of his harvest; all who devoured her were held guilty, and disaster overtook them, ' " declares the Lord. Hear the word of the Lord, O house of Jacob, all you clans of the house of Israel. this is what the Lord says: "What fault did your fathers find in me, that they strayed so far from me? They followed worthless idols and became worthless idols themselves. They did not ask, 'Where is the Lord who brought us up out of Egypt and led us through the barren wilderness, through a land of deserts and rifts, a land of drought and darkness, a land where no one travels and no one lives?' I brought you into a fertile land to eat its fruit and rich produce. But you came and defiled my land and made my inheritance detestable.' "

Focus: Verse 5: We become what we follow!! Worthless idols!

The woman is searching for everything... when she's already got it! Her God was everything!!

1.) She stopped disapproving the idolatry

2.) She stopped not welcoming the idolatry
3.) She opened up to the idolatry
4.) She adopted the idolatry
5.) She burned her children at the stake of the idolatry. - (Jeremiah 7:31)

*Key Verse* Jeremiah 2:7 - I brought you here.... to eat! Jeremiah 52:4-6 - by the end, they were starving to death.

*You have forgotten how to blush! (Jeremiah 8:12)

*(Jeremiah 2:8) "Where is the Lord?" We are to KNOW He is there!

*What are you doing with your devastation? (Jeremiah 4:30) Our question should be... NO! NEEDS to be: WHAT ARE YOU DOING, O GOD, FOR THIS DEVASTATED ONE?!?! HOW ARE YOU USING MY DEVASTATION FOR YOUR GLORY AND FOR YOUR KINGDOM?!?

* "See, today, I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot, and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant." - Jeremiah 1:10

- This uprooting and tearing down takes place all through out Jeremiah.
*Sometimes, He must uproot and tear down first, before He can build something back up!!
*He will never uproot anything without wanting to plant something better in return!!

In the book of Matthew it states that somethings need to pulled up by the roots. - Generational curses need to be pulled up by the roots!! But, rest assured, He wants to plant something even greater in place of those generational curses!!

Jeremiah 2:2b - "and followed me through the desert, through a land not sown."
- The definition of a desert: A land not sown. A place that appears where nothing can grow.
Jeremiah 4:3 - BREAK UP YOUR UNPLOWED GROUND!!
What is our desert? Anything or anytime when we don't sense His power or His presence.

*You were made more for a purpose rather than a painlessness!

* That's where your desert turns into a blue paradise! When you say to God, "You can't have this area of my life", that's where He will go! That is your desert. Anywhere you won't let Him break up your unplowed ground!! Give Him your desert, let Him break up the unplowed ground, then you will have a paradise!! Your desert may be your career, or a secret that you have held down way down deep. Any part of you that you haven't given to God!

*Jeremiah 6:14 - "They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious. 'Peace, Peace' they say, when there is no peace.
- We do not need people telling us, "it's not that bad." IT IS THAT BAD! IT IS A SERIOUS WOUND! But PRAISE GOD!!! WE HAVE A HEALER!!
*Jeremiah 31:25 - "I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint." (!!!!!)
HE WILL REPLENISH YOU!!

*Revelation 3:20 - Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.

Jeremiah 2:7a - I brought you into a fertile land to eat its fruit.

Jeremiah 15:16 - When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight!

"The word of the Lord came to me saying, 'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.' 'Ah, Sovereign Lord,' I said, ' I do not know how to speak; I am only a child.' But the Lord said to me, 'Do not say, "'I am only a child' you must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the Lord. Then the Lord reached out His hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth." - Jeremiah 1:4-9 (italics added)
*****Jeremiah 15:16 explains Jeremiah 1:9*****
Jeremiah 15:16 - when your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight. (!!!!!) ******
*God puts words in our mouth. We chose whether or not to eat them!!

*Hosea 2:14-15 - "Therefore I am going to allure her; I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her. there I will give her back her vineyards, and will make the valley of Achor a door of hope. There she will sing as in the days of her youth, as in the day she came up out of Egypt. "

*God meets us in our desert!! *HE BROUGHT YOU HERE!!!*
*WHATEVER YOUR DESERT IS- HE BROUGHT YOU HERE!! HE WILL DELIVER YOU, IF YOU ALLOW HIM!! LET HIM BREAK UP YOUR UNPLOWD GROUND!!!

*Jeremiah 7:24 - "But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed their stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward not forward."

- Am I going backwards? Or am I going forwards??

I Was SO Excited....

2010-09-27T12:48:00.000-04:00

About making Homemade Tomato Soup! The recipe seemed so simple and fairly quick too. To begin, the recipe called for 3 lbs of tomatoes with 8 oz of water in a big pot. Done. Allow tomatoes to stew for 30 minutes to allow the peelings to fall off. Drain. (all that should be left in the strainer are the peelings and seeds.) WRONG!! Try - instead of 30 minutes - 2 HOURS! And peelings and seeds in the strainer? Nope! Try big ol' chunks of smashed tomatoes. Full of frustration I decide to throw it all in a blender - I figured I could just mix and smooth out the peelings, right? Well, great idea, until I filled the blender too full only for the pressure of all the chunks to blow the top off and my smashed tomato stuff goes flying all over me and my kitchen!!! By this time, I am just furious! Almost in tears because I was so excited about making my homemade tomato soup and it's becoming just a huge mess - literally! After cleaning up my mess, it's time to blend in smaller portions and add my 1/2 cup of chopped onion and my 1/2 cup of chopped celery. However, my onion and celery was not chopped. Noooo, I minced it. So my 1/2 cup of celery and onion was probably more like 1 cup to a cup and a half of onion and celery. - Not realizing this until Dan and I tasted it :/ It was the grossest thing that has ever hit my taste buds. We had this horrible onion taste in our mouths for the rest of the day. UGH!

So. In total: My 30 Minute Homemade Tomato Soup turned into a total of 3 HOURS! It tasted horrible. I wasted my entire Saturday afternoon. I was very frustrated and disappointed. I cried. Dan hugged me and said it was all okay! - Thanks Babe! And that night to make myself feel better (at like 9:00!!) I made a homemade lasagna for the first time! At around 11:00 that night I tried a piece (and made Dan also!) and IT WAS GREAT!! I shouted, "HA! I AM STILL A GOOD COOK!!!"

Homemade Tomato Soup can bite me!!! ;)

Kiddo Update!

2010-09-24T18:01:00.003-04:00

Kid Moments!
Nicholas has memorized about 5 Bible verses within the last 3 weeks!! He is so cute as he says them - he gets so shy and says them so quietly! I love it!

Zachary has learned that it is a good thing to help others... the next day he proceeds to clean up our dirty clothes out of our bedroom. And it was the cutest thing seeing Nicholas watch his big brother cleaning up and then goes behind him and helps clean up, dragging a pair of jeans along the way to the dirty clothes hamper!

I have realized that, I have boys, who like bugs! Zachary, in full excitement, brought me a worm one day! But not just a worm, a worm in two pieces! And continues to tell me to, "WATCH MOM! If you pull it apart, it still moves!!" Eeewww!!!

Zachary has been moved up to a Second Grade Reading Class!! And is doing a great job in it!

Nicholas can write A B C aka - up, down and across (A); down, circle, circle (B); and tuuurrrnnn (C)!!! LOVE IT!!

Both of my boys are getting so big! And they are such a blessing to me!! Thank You Jesus for my precious boys!

Scarlett Marie Poe

2010-09-24T17:54:00.004-04:00

Our newest Niece!! Born Saturday, September 4th. Perfect timing for us - we were in Shelbyville for Labor Day Weekend! Thanks Scarlett!

Justin (Dan's Brother) and Scarlett

Great Times & Great Fellowship!

2010-09-24T17:54:00.000-04:00

It's a bit late, but here are some pictures from Labor Day weekend. We were in Shelbyville to visit my family! It was such a great time! Enjoy the pics!

My nieces Abby and Alissa

Precious Alissa!

The slide was great!

All the adults had to try it out!

The boys on our way home!!

Slacking

2010-09-17T10:01:00.002-04:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. Our laptop is not working... AGAIN!! It is so frustrating! So yes, I am at work posting this... I'm so gonna get fired one day. :/ Anyways. I do have SO many things to get posted, as soon as our laptop is up and running again. With lots of thoughts, funny stories, and pictures!!

Thanks for your patience!
Lots of Love!
-Nicole

I Have a New Found Hobby...

2010-09-02T11:11:00.002-04:00

READING!! Yes, I used to HATE reading...with a passion. But, over the summer I started reading one book, and I've just continued picking up one book after another! YAY for me! :)

Here's my summer list of books I've read:

I'll Hold you in Heaven, by Jack W. Hayford
Crazy Love, by Francis Chan
Faithful Women and Their Extraordinary God, by Noel Piper
A Woman and Her God, by Beth Moore, Jill Brisoe, Sandra D. Wilson, Kathleen Hart, David Hager, Thelma Wells, and Beverly LeHaye
The Excellent Wife, by Martha Peace
The Help Meet, by Debi Pearl
Love and Respect, by Emerson Eggeriches

On my Fall "To Read" list:

Returning to Holiness, by Gregory Frizzell
The Way of the Master, by Ray Comfort
The Sacred Romance, by Brent Curtis and John Eldridge

And whatever books I may stumble upon!

I Am SO Ready For Fall!

2010-08-24T14:05:00.002-04:00

Awe, Fall! Autumn! Such a wonderful season!! I am SO ready for it!! I have some serious fall frenzy going on!

Today's weather is low 80's with no humidity! It's been this way for about a week now, and I am loving it!

All I can think of is fall! Fall decorations - no, I haven't already decorated my house with fall decor and been burning harvest scented candles!! ;) Fall cooking - no I haven't already put soups and chili on our menu! ;) Fall colors, the smells of all the wonderful spices, the scenery of the beautiful mountains, the sound of crackling leaves as you walk, the freshness of the air, the nice cool breeze... awe, I can go on forever!!

I am also super excited to try all new recipes for my hubby and kiddos!!
Homemade Tomato Soup
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup
Taco Soup
Chili
Pumpkin Chocolate Cookies
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Homemade Veggie Soup

Hope they all turn out well!

So long summer, hurry in Fall!!

Another Visitor!

2010-08-20T20:34:00.002-04:00

To add on to our "wild" visitors... A BOBCAT!! Yep! That's right, a bobcat!

Dan told me about our new visitor this morning, the cat was at the maintenance building where he works, then this evening the boys and I were returning home from the grocery store, and there in our driveway was this ADORABLE bobcat waiting on us!! I hear that they are not as nice and cute as they look, but it was still very cool to see! I couldn't grab my phone quick enough to snap a picture, but I'll try to have it handy for next time!!

Eat Pray Love

2010-08-19T19:12:00.005-04:00

What an incredible weekend!!! It was a Girl's Weekend Out!

Morgan, Jesse, Devon, Mary, and myself all met up in Lexington for the Beth Moore Living Proof Conference! Man, it was awesome!

For now, here are some pics. I will get all my notes and thoughts about the message on here some other time!

The worship was incredible! Probably one of the best worship experiences I've ever had! There is nothing like 11 THOUSAND women worshiping our Lord! I love seeing all generations together worshiping and in His Word together! At one point I glanced over and saw a women, probably in her late 80's, and though you could tell her body was frail and fragile, her hand was raised in worship to our Lord! May seem silly, but I absolutely love moments like that! It is just such a beautiful picture!

I also love to just listen for a moment! There is something so powerful to just listen to a group that large in worship! It's like a small glimpse of Heaven!

In this picture the guys were doing some Southern Gospel tunes. Now, this is not my style of music, but it was still awesome seeing all the "older" ladies standing, clapping, and stomping their feet!

Beth Moore

This weekend was awesome, because it was a nice break from work and yes, even a nice break from my precious boys and sweet hubby! And, it was awesome being in the city again! Oh how I miss the city SO much! The mountains are beautiful and all, but I really miss the city life! I don't realize how much I miss it, until I'm there again! The downtown streets of Lexington are beautiful! Yes, BEAUTIFUL! :) Close access to Starbucks is a beautiful thing! ;)

Now I'm back home with the guys. Back to burping, random gas, super hero's running around at every waking moment, and tickling mommy attacks!

I Wouldn't have it any other way!!

2010-08-17T19:14:00.003-04:00

Clear Creek Bible Baptist College was founded in the year 1926.

All these years, decades, and all have known the way of the one-way roads through-out campus. That is, until the Poe Family arrived. This is the result of a dear guest of ours!

That's right! One of our guests couldn't figure out the one-way roads, so now after 84 years, they've had to paint directions on the roads!! :)

It has Just About Been...

2010-08-12T15:53:00.002-04:00

one year exactly that we've been at Clear Creek! :/ :)! Not really sure how to feel 'bout that! Man, has ALOT went on in this first year!?!? Great Times, some pretty rough times, but all in all, God has totally blessed our family! He has made us stronger, and has continued to strengthen our faith in Him.

Classes started back up this morning at Clear Creek and Dan is looking forward to getting back into the swing of things! I'm pretty interested in some of his classes myself... Youth Retriets; Cults & Religions; Sounds like pretty cool stuff!

Anyways! Thanks for continueing to follow our blog as we continue through our journey of our crazy faith!!

Philippians 2:14-16a

2010-08-10T18:19:00.004-04:00

Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.

It was a stressful and frustrating day at work today. And through my stress and frustration I complained and argued, which were the roots of my gossip about the person who caused my stress and frustration! Complaining and arguing lead to gossip, which lead to anger and judgment, all of which is exactly what this crooked and depraved generation feed off of. And through all those things this crooked and depraved generation will put fault on you, which dims your light. And in the book of Philippians, Paul doesn't say, "Oh yeah you should shine as stars." No, the Word says that in which you shine like stars in the universe. Assuming that we are already shining like stars for His glory! We must be ever so careful how we handle our life situations on a daily basis, because this crooked and depraved generation is watching our every move!

Instead of sinning through our frustration - which is oh so easy to do, we should obey Philippians Chapter 2 and "do everything without complaining or arguing so that [we] may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which [we] shine like stars in the universe as [we] hold out the word of life!"

Funny how far a bit of stress and frustration can go, isn't it?!?!

Back to School!

2010-08-10T18:18:00.002-04:00

My Big First Grader!!

Better Late Than Never

2010-07-29T17:13:00.004-04:00

Here are some pics from Fourth of July!

My mom came down for the weekend, and we went to East Cumberland Church to watch the fireworks in Middlesboro. It was so hot that day, but we had a great time. And great fellowship!

My mom and Zachary

Part of the Back Family! Jan, Mark, and their daughter Shelby.

Cupcakes were everywhere!

New Recipes!!

2010-07-29T16:55:00.002-04:00

I love cooking for my family! And I especially love trying new recipes! Check out these two yummy recipes that I'm experimenting with!

Bistro Chicken Pasta Salad

Super Easy and Super Yummy!!

2 cups of cooked penne pasta

1 cup of quartered cherry tomatoes

some parmasan cheese

pack of Italian Dressing Mix

1/3 cup of fresh basil cut into strips

1/4 cup of chopped red onion

some sun-dried tomatoes

boneless, skinless, chicken breasts

cook pasta, cover the chicken in bbq sauce, grill the chicken until it's done, then mix all the ingredients together!

Grilled Lemon Fish with Asparagus

haven't tried this one yet, but plan on cooking it tomorrow night for Dan!

5 lemons, divided

1/2 cup of Sun-Dried Tomato Dressing

4 firm-textured fillets, such as cod, tilapia, or salmon

1 lb asparagus, trimmed

squeeze juice from one lemon with dressing. Mix. Pour half the dressing mixture over fish. Refrigerate for 15 mins. Heat grill. Cut each of the remaining lemons into 4 slices. Place 8 lemon slices on grill, place fish on top of the lemon slices. Brush more dressing mix on fish. Grill for 5 mins then turn over. Add remaining lemon slices and asparagus to grill. Brush with dressing. When the fish is cooked, discard the lemon slices that were underneath the fish.

Enjoy!

Random!

2010-07-22T10:32:00.002-04:00

I have an interest in sewing! Yes, sewing. I've actually had an interest in it for a while now, but I've never really had anyone available to teach me, but, I am determined to learn! :) For any crafty people out there who read my blog, are there any suggestions on any certain type of sewing machines?? I'm looking into a Brother CS6000i. Is this a good machine? I'm wanting to start out with making some basics, maybe some curtains for the cottage, an apron, and some other just basic stuff.

Help please! Please post any suggestions! Thanks a bunch!!

Hope everyone has a wonderful day!! :)

More Pics

2010-07-08T18:55:00.013-04:00

Here are some more random pictures! Again, they are in no certain order! Enjoy!

Zachary's Kindergarten Graduation!!

All of the Clear Creek kids graduating Pineville Elementary!

Zachary, Jenna - Zachary's future wife?!?! ;) , Andrew, and Justin

"K is for Kindergarten Hip, Hip, Hooray!"

Pictures from Thomas' funeral.

We went to Gatlinburg Memorial weekend. The boys went "swimming" in the big tub!

Fun Carnival rides in Middlesboro

Easter!!

I LOVE these egg baskets we made!!

Easter egg hunt at Grandma's house!

How handsome are they?!?!

Hanging out at MeeMaw's and PeePaw's!

We took another fishing trip / picnic, this time however instead of bugs swarming us, butterflies were swarming! Much Better!

More pretty views!

I LOVE What He is Teaching Me!!

2010-07-08T12:23:00.002-04:00

Even though at times it's painful and hard to take in, I am absolutely LOVING what God is teaching me at this place! I am surrounded by godly women who love the Lord, and are ever so willing to share and pass down their godly wisdom to young, prideful, stubborn women like myself! :)

Some things that God has spoken to me about:

I can't biblically submit to my husband, if I have never fully submitted to Christ! WHOA! Let that settle with ya!

Sure I've place my faith, my hope, and my trust in Him. I am confident that I am His child. When I came to know Him 9 years ago, I was 16 years old. And although I had a wonderful pastor who had a desire for youth and through him, Christ taught me all of my foundation, I didn't learn, or maybe it was more like I didn't care, about what a biblical wife is supposed to be like. I was 16! Of course that's not on my mind. So to take all that I've ever known, seen, heard and believed about how I am to be a wife, has become this wordly lie that has become truth to me. It is so hard for me to swallow my pride, and fully surrender. But if I want to be in the will of God, I must.

Sometimes I wish that God was just this genie, who at a moment's request could just "POOF" make it all go away or get better! But of course God isn't some magical genie. He doesn't always just go "POOF" because He wants us to learn how to seek Him, trust in Him, and have faith in Him, which leads to having full confidence in Him!

I can feel Him working in my life right now, and I love it! It is so refreshing!

Potty & Loose Tooth!

2010-07-06T14:16:00.003-04:00

Big, exciting things are happening in the Poe Family!

Nicholas is completely potty trained!! YAY! No more pull-ups! It has taken much bribery, but Nicholas has finally mastered the potty! We still do much cheering and celebrating after each victory - Nicholas even cheers for all of us now! Including in public places! :/ One night we were at Pizza Hut, and after Nicholas used the potty, he ran out into the lobby and yelled for all to hear with much excitement and joy, "I WENT POTTY!!!" And as I said, he even cheers for us at home! High fives, hugs, dancing and all!

Zachary has his first loose tooth! And he's looking forward to the day it comes out! Each day he asks us if it's any looser, then proceeds to explain to us that he thinks it is and why it is!

Good Stuff!! I love my kiddos!

Picture Updates!!!

2010-07-05T13:55:00.016-04:00

YAY! We finally got the laptop working again so I'm able to finally get some pictures on here! Here's some for now. They're not in any certain order. Enjoy!

Earlier in the Spring we took the boys on a picnic / fishing trip. We were planning on staying the night, but I chickened out - I am NOT a country girl by no means, so the no lights, no water really just did not go well with me! We hung out with our pizza, let the boys fish a while, then roasted marshmellows and made some smores! We left at around 10:30 that night. The bugs were HORRIBLE! - Another reason why I chickened out - I don't do bugs very well either!

Zachary holding a fish he caught!

The flies were awful! They were swarming us!

The view was very pretty though!

Yummy!!

Nicholas wouldn't eat the smore put together, nor would he eat a roasted marshmellow. Only the chocolate and graham cracker together, and then the marshmellow on a stick!!

We've also spent some time walking around campus and taking the kids to the big open field and the playground on campus. It's been fun!!

We went to the Pinnacle, and saw some more amazing views! I love the Pinnacle!

Campus was absolutely beautiful during Spring!

This is the tree right outside our kitchen window!

In March, Dad and Marquita visited us for the weekend. We took the boys to a park in Pine Mountain and just enjoyed each other's company!

More Pineville Accent Adjustments...!

2010-06-30T09:24:00.004-04:00

Although we've been here now for almost a year, I am still adjusting to the southern twang!

Normal Speech that I'm Used To - Pineville Twang:
"you guys" or "you all" is now "you ns" or just plain ol' "ns"!!
"cooking" is now "cucking"!
"took" is now "tuck"
"window" is now "winder" or "winda"

And you can bet any words with the "i" sound will be stretched out a mile long!

I'm used to referring the three meals of the day as: "Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner". In Pineville it's: "Breakfast, Dinner, and Supper" or other wise known as just "Breakfast, Deener, and Suppa" or Supp"

If someone feels really bad for you or sympathizes with you, or if someone thinks you're nuts or crazy, you're sure to hear these following words: "Bless your little heart!" Trust me, you can tell the difference between whether they sympathize with you, or if they think you're nuts!

Most the time, they think this "Northerner" is nuts!!! :) So yes, I hear the phrase "Bless your little heart" ALOT!! Oh well! :)

Awe...

2010-06-30T08:46:00.002-04:00

The past few nights have been such nice, beautiful, wonderful nights! The temps have dropped a bit, to make it a little cooler and less humid - making it more enjoyable on campus! Last Friday we helped our dear friends load their U-Haul as they were leaving for seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina. It's so sad seeing them leave, but we are excited for what God has in store for them!

Saturday, we finally hit our favorite trail again!! It's the first time we've hit the trail since last fall. Mainly because of the bear we have on campus, and I don't want to come face to face with him on any trails or walking adventures. Oh, yes, I don't think I've blogged about our visitor yet! But, yes, we have a bear on campus!! A huge - well huge to me - 6 1/2 - 7 foot tall, brown bear. He had made himself known through out different areas on campus by getting into the dumpsters, then one afternoon he decided to come up to Holly Hill and play on the playground! Thank goodness no kids were out at the time - which is rare because of it still being a bright, sunny afternoon. Then one evening he was right down the hill from our cottage climbing into our dumpster! We tried to snap some pictures from our front door, but it was too dark for any good pictures to turn out.

So anyways, it was wonderful walking our fav trail again! Then last night we walked around campus and took the kids to a playground where we ran into another family, the Smith Family, who we hadn't seen in a while. We ended up spending quite a bit of time just talking and laughing together and playing with our kiddos! It was so great! I love good fellowship!

After spending some time with the Smith Family, it was time for me to meet with Jan to begin our Bible Study. It was so wonderful! We sat out in the middle of campus in a gazebo around all the beautiful flowers and just spent time in His Word. God is using Jan in my life to teach me what a Godly wife is supposed to look like. Some of the biblical truth is really hard for me to swallow. God is teaching me many new things about myself that I never knew. It is amazing what He is unveiling to me! It's all a bit painful, but so refreshing and wonderful is it to have our Father continually molding me and shaping me into who He wants me to be!

It's just been a wonderful past few nights!

Oh. By the way! I do promise that some pics will be coming soon. Dan's laptop has crashed, so the only time I've have to work on the blog is at work - like now -shhh.. don't tell the boss! But I'm not able to download any pics while at work. Hopefully the laptop will begin working again soon. I have SO many pics to get on here!

WHOA!

2010-06-17T11:32:00.004-04:00

We're getting ALOT done!! I love spring cleaning. Yes, call me a nut, but I am truly an annal, neat freak, organizing nut on the inside. I am my dad's daughter! ;)

Anyways, the kiddos have been gone for the week - missing them terribly, but it is so nice to be able to finally get some things done around the cottage! We've switched all the bedrooms around, which makes more room for everyone! Dan and I have taken the back "guest bedroom" and we've given the boys our old bedroom. The third room is completely empty - and we're in hopes that God will fill it with a healthy child in the near future! It was very cool as we finished up last night... Dan and I went in the empty bedroom and prayed together that God would bless our family with another baby! Very cool experience to share together as husband and wife!

Anyways! I just love being in an uncluttered home! It just makes me smile! :) I also have found some pretty nice treasures for the home! I've been on the hunt for quite some time now for a smaller desk. Well, I finally found one! And for 15 bucks on top of that!! Nothin' like a good bargin! It needs some attention to it, but once Dan is through with it, I'm sure it'll be as good as new!

I also found some really nice picture frames at a yard sale, as well as a cute little lamp, and a basket for the bathroom!

Yes, it's the little things in life that make me happy! :)

I promise I will get some pictures soon. I know I've been majorly slacking with some pics.

Reason to Rejoice

2010-05-18T09:50:00.001-04:00

Why do I have a reason to rejoice after loosing a son?

Because I know that my son is with Jesus!! PRAISE BE TO GOD! Thomas will never know pain, he will never experience heartache, fear, or failure. Thomas will only know Heaven! Thank You God for giving Your Son, so that my son, can be with You!

That is my reasoning in rejoicing!

Trust in the Lord... Lean not on your own Understanding

2010-05-17T10:45:00.006-04:00

May 10, 2010

Full of excitement and anxiousness, we walk into the ultra sound room to have the gender of our baby revealed. However, in a matter of moments, our world is turned completely upside-down. As the nurse steps out and returns with the doctor, Dan and I both realize that something isn't right. There is no heartbeat to be found, and our precious baby's brain has not developed properly. Our little baby is in the arms of Jesus.

I was 18 1/2 weeks, just beginning my fifth month. Almost reaching my half way point. Just four weeks ago, we heard the baby's heartbeat - good and strong. Why has this happened? What went wrong? The doctor says that it was nothing that we did, the brain just didn't develop.

Our hearts ache. We will never understand in this lifetime why this happened, but God is so great! He is carrying us through the tears and the pain, and He is bringing us hope in Him.

Monday afternoon, as we were picking Zachary up from school, our hearts broke for Zachary as he was so excited to hear if he was having a baby brother or a baby sister. On the way home from school, he must have asked us at least five times what we found out. When we got home, we had to teach our six year old son the hard lesson of death, and that his baby brother was home with Jesus. Zachary came to me, placed his hands on my stomach and just hugged me. I will never forget that short moment with my son.

Monday night I was admitted to the hospital to deliver our son. I was pretty scared, not really knowing what to expect. After inducing labor, I gave birth on Tuesday, May 11th at 12:50 p.m. Praise be to our God, and for His love and mercy. I never had any physical pain during the procedure. Sure, I had some discomfort from the contractions, but never did I have any agonizing pain. I was asleep when I felt the sensation for the baby to be delivered. Everything delivered together, all in my bags of water. Never did I need to push or struggle at all. I am so thankful that He made it physically easy on me.

Dan and I returned home on Tuesday to a wonderful meal on the stove from the Back Family. We have been overwhelmed by the love that we have received from our campus family. Every night, dinner has been brought to our door. Our family at home has also been so wonderful. Everything from Marquita, my mom, and Dan's parents coming to stay with us. Mom and Marquita cleaning our cottage for us, and doing everything they could to help. Dad, staying in Shelbyville, and taking care of all the funeral arrangements for us.

Thursday, May 13th was the funeral for our precious Thomas Spencer. He is buried at Beechridge Baptist - the church that Dan and I grew up in together. We found out that an anonymous giver, completely paid for all funeral expenses! Thank You Jesus! At one point during the funeral, Nicholas was sitting in my lap, and he saw that I was crying when he reached over, grabbed my face and gave me a big kiss on the cheek! My baby is so sweet! Nicholas always has a way of making us smile! He also came to us at one point wearing someone's hanker-chiff around his neck being superman! Yes, I know it's a bit gross, but it sure was cute!

After returning home Thursday night, we found out some amazing news from the prison that Dan preaches at. After another student shared our story with the inmates, one inmate repented and accepted Christ as his Savior! Praise be to God that He is already using the story of our Thomas to save lives!! With that, He has brought us peace and comfort beyond all understanding.

The pain still runs deep, the tears are still heavy, but I know God is good, and He is faithful. Thank you all for your love, prayers, and support as our family begins the healing process.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. ~ Matthew 5:4

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. ~ Psalm 18:30

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: ~ Ecclesiates 3:1

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; ~ Proverbs 3:5

Lack of Updates

2010-04-26T09:40:00.004-04:00

Hey Guys! So sorry for the lack of updates, and the lack of pictures. Dan is in the midst of finals, so with one computer in the house, he's been a bit of a hog!! :) Hopefully next weekend, I'll have some time to get some really great pics on here and provide you all with some fun updates!!

Love and miss you all!

~Nicole