Danni's Song

Peace and other fun stuff

2011-05-25T16:45:00.000-07:00

Talk about a whirlwind!

I feel like we've been going nonstop since I posted last.

There has been doctors appointments and phone calls and paperwork like you wouldn't believe. The kids are asking tons of questions and trying to wrap their minds around what is happening. The two younger ones have not ever been left by both of us for more than a couple hours. Micah is asking about our trip, about the twins, and is processing and reacting in his own little 3 (almost 4) year old way.

He keeps asking if I am going over to Ethiopia to put the twins in my belly.

We're working on that. :)

But overall, the kiddos are doing well, and getting excited about our trip.

There have been days when the now and the "what's to come" seem crazy overwhelming.

Like "oh my gosh...WHAT are we doing."

Such an opportunity to worry and fret and obsess over every little (or bit) thing that could go wrong.

But I don't think I have once gone down that road.

That's HUGE.

At least for me.

This is coming from the girl who a few years ago was dead on the side of the road if he was even 5 minutes late.

Crazy much?!?!

Yeah, I know...we're working on that.

Anyway...I have felt such a sense of peace...you know, the kind that passes understanding...it's been a constant presence. I can feel Him, hear His voice, know His presence in a way that I can't remember ever experiencing before.

I'm kinda loving it.

So, logistically, things are falling into place.

We have our tickets in hand. We are working on figuring out how much of what to pack.

It looks like we will be bringing as much Costco formula for Layla House as we can fit into our bags.

I have a letter in hand that I will be bringing to our local Costco this week to ask for a donation. Prayer for favor with that would be amazing...just sayin'.

In other, non adoption news...This little lady graduates Kindergarten on Friday.

Can you even believe it?!

She was seriously born to go to school!

She has loved (most) every moment of it.

Her daily reports have never included academic updates, but more of

who is friends with who and

who wore what and

why so and so looked and such and such....

my little social butterfly.

I love you, Mace Face.

And then the next day we are celebrating this amazing little guy...

He is turning FOUR...wowza!

He is such a joy and delight and a constant source of entertainment.

It's hard to believe that he was just barely one and not even walking when he moved here.

How time flies - so thankful to have him in our lives!

Micah, you rock it!

And finally, Jason and I are celebrating our 11th anniversary this weekend.

That's a lot of years.

Can't believe I get to live my life with the most amazing man in the world.

One lucky girl. For reals.

He is certainly my better half and I thank God daily for him.

Couldn't ask for better.

Not in a million years.

Anyway, not sure if I will have a chance to post again before we head to Ethiopia (eeekkk!!!!)! Please, if you are a praying type of person, continue to lift all 9 of us up to Him.

He is a good, good God and has good things in store for us...

Long Overdue Update

2011-05-15T16:22:00.000-07:00

Oh how our lives have changed since my last post. In the midst of traveling to and fro (to NY and WA) and having an amazing visit from my sister and her family and then having a dear friend visit from NY (all w/in one month), we have been getting used to thinking of ourselves as a family of 9. Longing and yearning for the feel of two little girls, thousands of miles away, in our arms. We have been learning the sound of their names on our lips, the weight of them in our hearts. We have sat a continent away as G (the smaller twin) weathered a sickness with no mommy and daddy there to hold her and nurse her back to health. We are so very thankful for the doctors that did treat her and helped her recover, but my mommy heart still so deeply longs to be with her, with them.

The not knowing when we would get "the call" that we had a court date was hard. But easy. In a weird way. It's not often that I can rest, in peace, and know that God is in control. Should be easy, I know. Cause, let's be real, I suck and being God and making God sized plans. He is WAY better at it. For real. But in this instance, with these precious little girls, I feel I,we,have been given an extra measure of grace and peace. I know HE knows the plans He has for us, and that I so very much do not think His thoughts or understand His ways. Good thing!

So, back to "the call!" We received an email last Wednesday that we were assigned a court date. YES!!! We are to appear before the judge on June 7th. Which means that we need to be in Addis by June 5th, which means we leave on June 3rd....wowza!!! So quick. We need to buy tickets, pack, plan, prepare....inhale....we get to meet our little girls in less than 3 weeks...exhale...perfect, beautiful, unbelievable! I can't even begin to imagine that moment. Part of me is not "going there" yet for fear I would not be able to contain the emotion. To look at them, for them to look at us and know a family. My heart is full.

A lot of people have asked if they can do anything to help us. The biggest, most important thing is prayer. Lots of if. Continually. Seriously, every major development with this adoption has come on the tail end of intense prayer. Like the day after. Every one. I love watching His hand work!

Specifically, we are asking for prayer for:

* Grace and protection for our kids while we are gone. We've never gone away together and left the kids for more than one night. I think there is a bit of anxiety on both ends...ours and theirs! Mac is very attached to me right now, and I SOOO don't want this to be a traumatic experience for him.

* Grace and wisdom and more grace for Jason's INCREDIBLE parents who are coming here to watch the kids for a WHOLE week. That's big, folks. Really big. Pray for them to have an easy time, for the kids to adapt well and w/out incident. And for many many many blessings to be showered on them!

* Easy travel for Jason and I. We are still looking/shopping for tickets. They are not cheap. It would be great to find a good deal with few connections on a plane that is safe!!

* G, the littler twin, has some health issues. She's still very small, among other things. The docs are doing a great job and working with her to gain weight. We'd love to see her fatten up and be healthy. So thankful the the Great Physician knows her and loves her way more than I could ever imagine!

* Provision. We have been insanely blessed with gifts and funds to this point. But we still need about $1500 for our agency fees, and then about 5K more for travel for this first trip. I know God can and will provide. He's got it...the cattle on a thousand hills...yeah, they belong to Him. Please join us in praying and believing that the funds will be there. If you want to donate, there's a cute little button just under the vine thingy on the left. :)

Thanks to all of you for the prayers and support throughout this journey. and thanks for reading, even though the posts are few and far between!! Many, many blessings to you all!!!

Twins!

2011-03-17T12:37:00.001-07:00

Yes, that's right - not a typo...

we have officially been referred and accepted

twin baby girls. Oh my. So excited. Blessed. Humbled.

They are about 4 months old, and

take-your-breath-away adorable.

It's amazing how instantly we fell in love.

My girls.

Beautiful.

I hope to write more, a lot more, later.

But my parents are flying in just about an hour and I plan to fully soak up the time with them and probably not blog until they go back to Washington.

In the meantime, though, take a look at these links...

just a few fun ways you can help us bring these girls home!!

http://justlovecoffee.com/thethompsons8

Some seriously good coffee, and seriously cute gear

Remember this post? Still raising money and giving away the beautiful hand crafted quilt!

http://www.ordinaryherostore.org/

Love these T's - so cute and hip and fun...with a great message! Just click away and select the Thompson's in the affiliate box at checkout!

Thanks so much!!!

Did I mention how crazy wonderfully excited we are! Twins....7 kids....so wild - love it!!!

The Clark family Adoption !

2011-03-14T14:34:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited!

A friend that I met recently has just sent her husband over to Ethiopia

to bring home their baby boy.

I have goosebumps as I write this.

So excited for them.

Check out her blog here.

Can you even stand how cute he is?!?!

Please join me in praying for safe travels and an easy transition for

Megan, Billy, Shep and William!

Adoption Update and Fundraisers

2011-03-08T10:21:00.000-08:00

Things continue to be ever interesting and unpredictable in the world of international adoption. We received word from our agency last night that the Ministry of Social Affairs n Ethiopia has announced that it will reduce the number of approval letters it sends to the court (one is required for each case) from 40 to 50 a day down to 5 a day.

This would obviously slow things down dramatically. However, nothing is set in stone as of yet. I am so very confident that nothing is impossible for my God, and that He can sway the hearts of those in charge. Please join us in praying fervently that this decrease letters does not happen. There are so many children needing homes, and so many of us waiting to love on them.

Yesterday, the Joint Council on Children's Services wrote a petition. They collected over 1000 signatures in just a matter of hours. Please check this out. Please sign.

http://www.gopetition.com/petition/43714.html

We are also launching a new fundraiser today!

A lovely woman at our church made an beautiful quilt for us.

Seriously - stunning.

We are offering chances to have it as yours!

Just go to the side bar and click on the "Bringing Kate Home" Paypal link.

$5 for one entry, $8 for two.

Just mention "quilt" in comments.

Please feel free to spread the word!

We will announce the winner on April 9th!

Close up of a couple of the individual squares - love these scenes!

Large View of the Back

Up close of the backing - love it!

Do you see what I see?

2011-03-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

I see a couple of boxes ready for the trash.

They See...

"Reading Boxes"

I see a cup of milk that I pray he won't spill.

He sees...

A treacherous mountain to be traversed by the bravest of heroes.

I see a mud pit and a tangle of toys.

They see...

an alien terrain and the victor's castle.

I see a bunch of old wood and a discarded shelf.

He sees...

A perfect landing strip for planes carrying soldiers returning from war.

I see weeds and dread the maintenance to come.

She sees...

flowers for mom that "look like magic" in a forgotten vase.

As I think on the wonders of the world from my children's eyes,

I am challenged by my Father

to see through His eyes.

I see a broken, wounded person.

He sees a vessel ready for shaping.

I see a lonely, wandering soul.

He sees someone He delights to call friend.

I see struggle and fighting against the way it is.

He sees soil rich for planting.

I see a fragile blossom being assaulted by the wind and rain.

He sees...

Roots growing deep and strong. Roots that will withstand a coming storm.

Jesus, let me learn from my children.

Let me have eyes to see.

Let me see as you see.

Another Thankful Thursday

2011-03-03T16:49:00.001-08:00

Laundry, Lunches, Pick ups, drop offs.

Diapers, nursing, chasing, snuggling.

Playing, diggin, chasing, cleaning, napping, snuggling.

Cook, feed, referee, clean, brush, wash, pray...

sleep.

Repeat.

Every day.

For years.

Truth be told, even amidst the joys of motherhood, it gets to be a bit much sometimes.

Today as I was doing the "norm"

I was thinking about my challenge as of late.

Be present, be thankful, on purpose.

Live fully, every day, in every situation...on purpose, for real.

So today, another installment of Thankful Thursdays.

18 waking up to my bouncing baby boy (literally)

19 hearing him say Dadadadada...

20 and mean it

21 baby sleeping through the nights

22 but still the occasional 3am feeding

23 little eyes at the breakfast table

24 reading the cereal boxes

25 five pairs of cut off jeans

26 in five different sizes

27 a washing machine that still works after being used every day for years

28 Bounce dryer sheets

29 freshly ground coffee

30 my French press

31 leaves still descending from trees

32 while new life buds on the branches

33 anticipating a long awaited visit from

34 my precious parents

35 little fingers holding mine

36 and then letting go...

37 searching out treasures only he sees

38 reports from the playground

39 from a 5 year olds' view

40 sweet songs at bedtime

41 five sleeping kiddos

42 safe in their beds

43 dreaming God sized dreams....

As I am think on all of this,

I am duly reminded that all of this truth-

the ins and outs,

ups and downs,

joys and pains

of motherhood -

are truly a gift.

A privilege.

I am blessed beyond measure.

And I am thankful.

Wordless Wednesday - then and now - Kylie edition

2011-03-02T18:14:00.001-08:00

Conversations with the Kids

2011-03-01T09:05:00.001-08:00

I have the funniest kids.

Ever.

Other people think they are funny too. Or so I've been told.

I've determined that communicating with kids is a lot like speaking a different language.

Each kid, their own dialect!

Sometimes, however, it doesn't matter how long I have spent immersed in their world, their language, their customs...

I still get lost. Really lost.

Don't beleive me?

Here's a fairly recent convo. with Mr. Micah.

M: "Mom, can I do it?"

Me: "Do what, Micah?"

M: "So, I can?"

Me: "No. What do you want to do?"

M: "You mean, I can?"

Me: "Micah. Tell me what you want to do, then I'll answer you."

M: "I don't"

Commence playing happily....

Thinking I need to brush up on my skills.

Hoping you all are enjoying today, without too many communication fails. :)

Some Words.

2011-02-28T18:41:00.000-08:00

"He climbed the high mountain,

He captured the enemy and seized the booty,

He handed it all out in gifts to men."

(the message)

"And when He ascended on high,

He led captivity captive,

and gave gifts to men.

(NKJV)

I told you a little while ago that I love to read. Born from that is a love of words.

Beautiful, flowing, poetic.

I love to savor the way they roll in my mind,

how a few simple words can evoke such emotion.

The words above, from Ephesians, have been tumbling around in my mind for a few days.

Just popped into my head...

or were lovingly placed there.

I can feel them going deep.

I can feel things been rooted up and tossed to and fro.

He took captivity captive.

Ruminate on that.

What does that look like? How does that feel?

Liberating. Hopeful. Amazing.

So I sit, I think, I ponder, I pray.

Oh God, take my captivity.

Take it captive to Your goodness, your truth.

Set me free.

A gift, indeed.

Hootenanny

2011-02-27T16:16:00.000-08:00

Hootenanny.

Hootenanny is an Appalachian colloquialism that was used in early twentieth century America to refer to things whose names were forgotten or unknown. In this usage it was synonymous with thingamajig or whatchamacallit, as in "hand me that hootenanny." Hootenanny was also an old country word for "party".

I love this word. Fun to say. Fun to hear my kids say.

AND...it's an amazing dish that I found in this book that I won. So many fun recipes and great hosting (hostessing?) ideas.

Hootenany has become somewhat of a fun Sunday morning tradition for us.

I love messing with the recipe a bit and adding different things.

Maple syrup. Cinnamon and vanilla (fave).

And the kids love it. Happy mom. Happy kids.

Beauty.

I love weekends. Started out with a much needed girl date. Me and my lovelies. We went to a yummy Japanese restaurant - hibachi style. So fun. They loved the food the atmosphere and it was a blast to spend some time with them. I love my girls!

AND...

We planted our garden today. In February. Hoping it doesn't frost... really hoping.

I love doing this as a family.

The kids each pick out a couple veggies, plant and tend (ideally) them.

Usually it's Jason or I tending them...or just Jason...or neither?!

I have a self professed black thumb.

It's lethal.

But

THIS IS MY YEAR!!

I shouldn't have any excuses. I'm not huge pregnant, I don't have newborn...

should work

here's hoping!

Anyway...full weekend...life is good!

I'm really hoping that my massive amount of pictures this week will distract you from the fact that I missed yesterday's post. 29 posts in 30 days? Maybe I'll do two in one day...or maybe not...?!

Five Things I Love Friday - bloggy friend edition

2011-02-25T18:02:00.000-08:00

I feel like I'm cheating. I don't need to be overly creative or eloquent to do this post. But I really do love these. Lots. Check them out!

1. My good friend Lynda. We've been friends for over 11 years - loved every minute of it!

She is an amazing writer..check out her stuff. Careful though, it's quite addictive!

2. Jenn. Can't say enough about this girl. Love her lots...she makes me laugh, she is so real in her blog, and amidst raising 4 beautiful kids, she is crazy crafty. Love.

3. Poop in a Candle. 'Cause who wouldn't love a blog called poop in a candle. Hilarious. Nuff Said.

4. Cale's Recovery. These two are friends of friends. An amazing story of love and faith and healing and hope. Go there. Be encouraged. Be changed.

5. Amy. We've been in the same geographical maybe twice in the last 10 years. Had a few conversations here and there. "refound" her on fb recently and just discovered her blog. Beautiful. Timely. Lovely.

Thankful...on purpose

2011-02-24T17:14:00.001-08:00

Complacent. In a rut. Discontent.

These are words I use to describe where I am at too often.

Way too often. It's embarrassing.

I live a great life.

Beautiful, healthy, amazing kids.

Loving, attentive, involved, cute, Godly husband.

Wonderful house. Friendly Neighbors. You get the picture.

So, why do I feel discontent sometimes...a lot of times.

In reading the book I posted about earlier in the week, I am beginning to understand.

It seems the root of discontentment is unthankfulness.

Ouch.

I always tell the kids to be thankful for what they have. To say thanks. To give thanks.

But inside, I am not thankful.

I should be. I need to be.

"I have LEARNED in whatever state I am in, to be content..."

Oh God, help be to learn that. To learn by doing.

Create a spirit of gratitude within me.

The author, early on in the book, starts a list based on a dare.

List a thousand things you are thankful for.

1000. that's lots.

A bit daunting maybe, I don't think I've done a thousand of anything...

except for diapers, but, really....ewwwww.

Anyway, I think I'm gonna go for the challenge.

As I was thinking of it today, I found a lot to be thankful for.

From tiled bathroom floors, to the infectious giggle of my three year old. Thinking maybe I'll list them for you...maybe a "thankful thursday" thing.

Catchy, I know :)

Follow along if you want, better yet, join in!

What are you thankful for?

1 The little bird outside the girls' window that wakes up with me in the morning.

2 Springtime buds...in February

3 indestructible plastic toys

4 Grandparents watching grandkids play basketball on the front lawn

5 The big yellow school bus that delivers my kids every afternoon

6 That my house is the bus stop

7 Bouncing backpacks as they come off of the bus

8 hugs that say I am loved

9 little readers learning their words

10 google chat

11 canned spaghetti sauce (don't judge)

12 calls to my mom over 3000 miles away

13 her voice on the other end of the line

14 knowing she misses me too

15 New shoes, that aren't so new

16 laughing til you lose control of your face

17 watching my kids laugh like that

Be thankful, on purpose!

Wordless Wednesday....mwwaaahahahaha....

2011-02-23T15:56:00.000-08:00

i believe she can fly...

2011-02-22T05:39:00.000-08:00

Macey woke up this morning in a bad mood.

Bad.

Not horribly unusual for her, she's definitely not a morning person. But she was more out of sorts than usual today. I did my best to tame her mood, calm her down, spur her on towards getting ready for school in a timely manner.

While she was eating breakfast, I asked if any of the kids had dreams last night. Not an unusual conversation for us to have.

It was like a light clicked on in her.

Tears, anger, fear, frustration, sadness

- all at once -

came flowing from my 5 year old.

"Mom, I lost my flying powers last night." Ahhh...got it.

My Macey is a dreamer.

Not like the "I wanna be such and such someday" type dreamer.

But like the

real,

night time,

sleeping,

revelation type dreamer.

For as long as she has been able to talk, she has articulated her dreams to us. From faceless people with blue hair to

our house flooding

and being told to move

to flying down the stairs and around the house.

She dreams...God speaks...she listens.

It's amazing.

Lately she has been flying...a lot.

I know the applicability and validity of dreams can be debated on many levels.

But I also know that God speaks to me,

to us,

in this way.

On a date with Miss Macey one night, we were talking about dreams.

Jason and I know that it is cool to fly in a dream and have always told her that it was so amazing. But I realized, I had never told her why it was cool.

"Macey, when you fly in a dream, it means you are flying with God, that you He speaks to you with His Spirit, and you listen!"

She replies

"Really?! Oh man, I feel so much better."

Then a slight silence and with a choked up little voice she says

"Mom, these are not tears of sad, but happy tears...I love this!"

Oh man...she gets it!

I love that she gets it, that she knows that Jesus thinks highly of her,

that He wants to carry her and have fun with her.

In her waking, and in her sleeping.

She has even gone so far as to be SOOO excited in the morning after a flying dream that she asks to try it for real.

For. Real.

And she wants me to join in.

As in, she wants to jump off our banister and show me the new moves she learned in her dreams. Now, the rational part of me is like

"Yeah right, I am never going to let my baby jump off a banister.

Ever."

Don't take this the wrong way and think I am going to be throwing my kids off of banisters...

But I do have to admit that something, deep within, is stirred.

What if she can really fly?

What if God is asking her, telling her to take a step, a leap of faith.

Do I dare stand in the way?

Hmmmm....!!!

Someday, with faith like a child,

maybe -

she will really fly.

Because I do, I really do...

I believe she can fly....

Got Motivation?

2011-02-21T16:53:00.001-08:00

I'm gonna take the easy way out today. Sending you over to another blog. I really feel like I have no creative juices flowing. Empty. Sorry.

But, in the midst of my lack of creativity this afternoon, I visited a bunch of blogs. Some I frequent daily and some not quite so often. This one, I re-visited again today. I love this girl. I don't know her at all, but her heart resonates with mine. She is living the "stuff."

Now, I know not everyone is called to go to a foreign country and adopt a ton of (or 14)kids. But I do know that inside each of us is a yearning to love, to do, to be, to - as she puts it in today's post - "see Jesus." Go over to her blog, take a look. What will it look like for you to "see Jesus" today?

http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/

Dig Deep...Rest Well

2011-02-20T14:32:00.000-08:00

"Mom, when we get home from church, can we go out and dig our hole some more?"

"Sure, dig away."

In my mind, I'm thinking...yes!

Dig, dig, dig! Play, play, play. Sleep, sleep, sleep.

I know all of us parents out there can attest to the fact that when kids have played long, played hard they sleep so much better. Bed time is somewhat enjoyable because they are worn out...tired...ready to rest.

So, today was spent digging, filling, digging some more, creating slides and steps and car seats for baby brother out of dirt.

I stood watching them. Marveling at their creativity.

How a simple patch of dirt that last year was a vegetable grave yard (i do NOT have a green thumb) was now a limitless arena of imagination. How four kids who sometimes fight over the silliest of things were bonded in an instant by creating something grand out of something so simple.

I know I tend to over "metaphorize" things sometimes.

Yes, I think I just made up that word. But, I'm tired and it sounds good to me. Don't hate.

Anyway....As I was thinking of my kiddos digging and creating and playing and the sweet rest that would follow,

I heard, felt, was wooed by that Still Small Voice.

Dig deep, my child, rest well.

Ah...sweet words, sweet promise. Sometimes - really, all the time, I think - the digging, the chipping away at what is, to reveal that which is supposed to be, is hard.

Really. Hard.

It hurts. Aches. Wounds.

But my Daddy is a gentle excavator. He does not always come in with a backhoe, but more often with a chisel and brush. His desire is not to damage beyond repair, but to fix and fill and create something beautiful and priceless out of something broken and wounded. I love that about Him!

He is encouraging me to dig and find and allow him to reveal the roots to brokenness, to invite Him to show me what needs to be fixed. But in turn, He promises sweet rest, blessed restoration.

Good stuff, all from a day in the dirt!

Watching him....

2011-02-19T18:46:00.001-08:00

Whew...what a day. I'm pooped. Tired. Worn out. Filled! We had a morning of chores, which the kids cheerfully completed. Love it when that happens. Afternoon was full of basketball games and playing outside and the kids digging a "pool" in my garden. So much dirt, so much fun!

Mac has decided he can walk now.

He literally went from walking maybe 5-10 steps at a time to taking a whole room. I think the clincher was the 2 hours he spent waiting in a the doctors office for his check up.

That's what happens when mom thinks the appointment is at 11 and it's really at 11:40.

Oh well...right?!

Anyway, been watching him a lot today. Swelling with pride. Been reminiscing a lot too. How did he get old enough to walk? Seems like just yesterday he was born. I love my babies!

Tonight as he toddled across the room, I was thinking. Man, he fell down A LOT today. Lots of success, lots of failures, per say. Except they are not fails. They are mere distractions to him, and to me. Not once did I scold him or discourage him from trying again.

Not once did he throw his hands up in the air, scream, and declare the battle not worth the prize - MOBILITY!

Wow. Think on that.

How often do I scold the other kids or myself for simple mistakes, for learning through falling. How many time have I experienced a bump in the road only to decide the pain of falling far outweighed the victory ahead. Hmmmm, indeed.

I think of our Creator. How must He love to watch us learn and try and come to Him when we fall. Not once does He give up on us when we fall and stumble just one too many times. Never does He declare us not worth His energy or attention, and He runs to help us to our feet.

May I see, more fully everyday, my kiddos through Daddy's eyes.

And may I know more fully His infinite His love for me,

as I experience my love for those He has blessed me with.

One Thousand Gifts (at least)

2011-02-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

I love to read. I do it a lot. Even with five kids, I can devour a good book in a matter of days. The house may suffer a bit, but the kids still get fed and cleaned and loved. I am a self-professed "word snob." I don't like sloppy or empty writing. I like to be moved, taken away, transported beyond my day into somewhere else. Escape.

And...I hate non-fiction.

Maybe hate is too strong of a word, maybe not.

Not sure why I don't run toward the newest revelation or self help book. Maybe I don't like to have to think to much?! Maybe I've let my brain get a bit lazy.

There's a lot of mush in my head. Kinda like that good ol' strong grey matter that used to function as a semi-reliable steel trap has been trampled and snotted and pooed and cried on till it is more like a very thin, hole filled net. If that. But every now and then, it's good to introduce some iron into the mix. You know - iron sharpening iron (or iron sharpening mush)?!

So - here I sit, looking at a book I bought. It wasn't given to me. No one said "hey this might apply to you - take a look." Nope. Found it on my own (actually saw it briefly on a blog) and on an implulse I bought it.

Me, Amazon.com, 20 seconds - done deal.

Two days later, that little brown box arrived. I didn't open it for two more days. Didn't crack the cover of the book for another week.

It stared at me from the file cabinet...I stared back.

Finally I got up the courage. I curled up with a cup of tea at nap time and read the first couple pages (3 to be exact).

Enter the ugly booger cry. Already!? For Real?!?!

This lady does not break you in easy. How the heck am I supposed to read an ENTIRE book of this. And more importantly, HOW did this lady get into my head - and WHY the heck is she writing about it for the whole world to see?

So now, 3 whole chapters (about 31 pages in) I am still in awe. Not only does she write crazy beautiful stuff, but there is strong truth and revelation on every page. every page. She writes about "living life fully, right where you are," about living WITH grace and embracing the mystery of life, much as the Israelites ate manna. Literally "what is it."

Eating, embracing, being nourished by the mystery. Mmmmm....good stuff.

Anywho, not sure how long it will take me to get through this book. I'm still a little scared of it, but a lot excited to see what else comes from it. I could use some good fruit!

Alright...for sitting down not knowing what to write about tonight, I think I've not done too bad!

'Night!

Baby Kate

2011-02-17T12:24:00.001-08:00

Whew...quiet moment. Kinda. Kids 1, 2, 3, and 4 are outside playing nicely together. Oh, how that warms my heart. Every time. Makes me feel like I'm on top of the world when they are loving on each other - happiness!!! Kidlet 5 is trying to pull the mouse off of the computer while desperately attempting to bite the head off of a lego guy. That's how we roll.

So, as promised, the adoption update. We are still waiting. Still. Waiting. We were inititally told that after the required six month period after Malachi's birth that we would most likely be at the top of the list and receive a referral around the 1st of October. It's almost March. No referral. Frustrating, yes. Discouraging, not at all. My God is good. His plans are perfect. His ways are unmeasurable. His timing - impecable. Love that about Him!

While I long to have Kate home, and while my arms sometimes ache to hold her, I am at peace. We are at peace. With each day, the excitement in our homegrown kiddos grows. Kylie is excited to love on her! Macey's compassion for the orphan is staggering - it's amazing how deeply she is moved for orphan's everywhere! Caleb is really embracing the idea of showing God's love by welcoming someone into his heart and life and loving as Christ does. Micah says "really, I get a new sister?! Yessss...!" I love these kids. Lots.

But waiting is not all "motionless." In the last month we have moved from 6th on the list to 2nd. Just one family in front of us. And none behind us (as of a couple weeks ago). Forward motion is good, and exciting and, as always - scary wonderful!

I have been so blessed to meet and build relationship with other moms and kiddos from Ethiopia. These women are amazing and love their kids to the max. In fact, they have recently put together a campaign to raise money for wells in Ethiopia. What better way to say thank you to the country that gave you such a precious gift. Check it out, if you feel so inclined. It's good stuff. http://www.ourglimmerofhope.org/campaign/water-ethiopia

Hmmm...what else. We are still raising money (or trying too). I feel kinda out of ideas. Or realistic ideas anyway. Would love to have 6K dropped in our laps. It could happen...right?! I do have some thoughts running around - auctioning a beautiful quilt made by a precious woman in our church. Thinking of getting a local coffee shop to work with us on a one day fund raiser. Good ideas...just gotta get em done. Is there a fund raising fairy out there?! I know God provides. I've seen it, lived it, experienced it. He kinda rocks!

So, that's pretty much it for now. Except for this - because who wouldn't want to Malachi take his first steps!?

firsts....

2011-02-16T15:46:00.001-08:00

To all of my followers (all three of you) I apologize for my absence as of late. It seems I have lost my voice. Or at least my blogg-y voice. I have been wondering at the purpose of this blog. Is it for me, to have some sort of creative release? Is it simply for all the fans of the fab 5 Thompson kids to get their fix of their cuteness? Has it/should it morph into an adoption blog? I dunno. Still. No clue.

But, I do know that I have ideas aplenty. However, not always the time, energy, or confidence to put them into action. Recently, I was challenged to write

SOMETHING

every day

for a month.

30 days. 30 entries.

30 glimpses into my crazy, scattered, sleep deprived, mommy-ing brain. Scary much?!

Anyway, Jason is working late tonight, and the kids are tired and running ragged...so this is going to be a short "first of thirty" entry. I do have an idea for tomorrow...good old adoption update!

I know,

can you even stand the suspense?!?!?!

Night all....

Wordless Wednesday - the Mace Face

2010-12-15T10:54:00.000-08:00

Cliff

2010-12-14T11:54:00.001-08:00

So my heart has been torn out for this little guy. Oh man. You have to go here and read his story. Don't turn away, don't stop reading. Thank you so much, Jeannett, for getting this thing going!

How we got here

2010-12-05T16:34:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have been following this blog for a while, you know that we are in the midst of adopting a little girl from Ethiopia. It is and has been quite the process, with lots of factors and experiences that have brought us here...Let me tell you a little about it.

I have always, as long as I can remember, had a heart for other countries and cultures. I remember being 5 and in an Awanas class and telling my teacher that I wanted to be a missionary. I wanted to tell people, to share, to experience with others the Light.

When I was 17 I traveled to Ensenada, Mexico with an interdenominational group from Washington. While ministering on the streets of Ensenada, I was able to hold and pray for this little boy, Salvador.

I was done in. In love. Ruined. From this point on, my heart was for adoption.

Though Jason was on this trip with me, we were not yet "us." (another story entirely).

A few years later we were married (finally!) and thus began our journey. It seems he knew fairly early on that I was open to and wanted to eventually pursue adoption for our family. Having never been a Daddy before, he will tell you, he was not totally sure about the idea of adoption. The thought of raising and loving a biological child was uncharted territory, and adding an adoption into the mix was even more unknown.

Fast forward a couple of years and a couple of kids, we were blessed to meet and share life with the Downen family. Talk about huge hearts and huge love. They did and still do blow me away. When we first met them, they had two bio boys and had just brought home their first two adopted children from China.

Eventually they had another bio son and continued to adopt more children. 11 more to be exact. Yeah, you can be amazed! During the process of bringing home their first two of these 11, the posted from Ethiopia about the older of the two siblings, Marta. The minute I read this, tears, joy, laughter, I was full...again, I was undone. I called Jason and told him he had to check it out. This was his turning point. This is when "our" journey began. Here is the post, and the pictures...wow, the pictures.

Today we got some emails from Julie. She is in Addis, and sent some pictures of Marta.

She is so shy she will hardly let Julie take her picture, even though they are close.

When Julie told her that I would be coming for her soon, this was her response.

Thanks God.

Shortly after this we watched a documentary on PBS (yes, we are that family - we LOVE documentaries)!. For me, this solidified our call deep within me. Something stirred, came alive inside of me. We were in love with Ethiopia...we needed to do something. How could we not?

We began contacting Adoption Advocates International about what it would look like to start the process of adopting a child or children. It's been a long journey, we've moved cross country, added another bio baby, and had lots of challenges, and victories and questions and excitement.

I hope to, plan to, post more about the process and some of the routes we've taken, questions we've asked and been asked along the way. If any of you (are you out there?) readers have any questions you would like us to address, I would love to attempt to answer them here. Just let me know!

If you are interested in supporting our adoption financially, and helping us bring Kate home, please check out these sites. All of them are generously giving a portion of the proceeds to help her come to her forever family!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/makemineblue

http://www.etsy.com/shop/eagerhands

http://justlovecoffee.com/thethompsons8

Pondering

2010-10-30T13:07:00.000-07:00

I recently read a quote:

"You don't have to play by their rules if you don't require their rewards."

Wiliam P. Young

Can't get it out of my head.

It has resonated deep within me.

Ponder with me:

What would it look like...

To not care what "they" think

To live freely, passionately, totally abandoned

To go, do, be, think, act , say with no regard to what others will label you as

I don't know about you, but this is something I deal and struggle with daily.

I feel a pull, a call, a longing for complete abandon.

To love extravagantly. To live deeply and with purpose.

Sometimes it is so strong, it hurts.

Sometimes I want to sell it all, move to some little two room house (yes all 7 of us) and give away all the excess. But then that other part of me thinks "Oh no, but then I won't be well regarded, my kids won't be well dressed or popular or...blah, blah, blah."

I look at all we have, and all we continue to claim to need. I see our abundance and then hear myself thinking, "if only I had _____, then I would truly be happy."

I wonder why it is such a struggle to mesh those two parts of me.

I am feeling the challenge to live by another set of standards. To live out of what the Creator compels me to do. To show love by more than words and flowery thoughts.

To love to my hurt.

To live in a way that I no longer give regard to the rewards of the world.

I want to experience what it is to "Love Mercy, Act Justly, and Walk Humbly with My God." Wow....

I'm not sure what that will look like right now or what it will mean for our future.

But I'm looking...

listening...

waiting.

Chickpea and Black Bean Chili

2010-10-26T16:29:00.000-07:00

This was going to be an attempt at a new weekly post - "Tasty Tuesday"

But

5 kids, homework, lunch making, paper signing, teething baby

Didn't make for a blog-type evening

So....

We'll try a Semi-Wordless-Wednesday Post

Enjoy!!!

I found this recipe at Allrecipes

YUM!!!!

Eager Hands Giveaway

2010-09-07T14:16:00.000-07:00

I don't usually repost things, or post about giveaways. In fact, don't think I ever have...ever! But this one is worth it. My sweet friend, Lora, is giving away and fabulous pendant - hand stamped - beautiful! Check it out.

I Love this Girl.

She is real, she is raw, she is beautiful and amazing! A mom to 4 kiddos and one on the way, she works diligently, faithfully, gracefully to bring peace and honor to her family and home. Did I mentinon that

I love this Girl?!?!

Anyway - check out her blog, cruise her etsy shop - buy, be blessed!

Wordless Wednesday - "my cool hair and cool goggles"

2010-09-01T09:40:00.001-07:00

Updates!

2010-08-30T12:53:00.001-07:00

There has been so much going on lately...so much! Many, many times I have thought "I need to blog that, " or "that would make a great post. " I am convinced my gravestone should say "She had a lot of good ideas." Seems things don't always materialize the way I would like or imagine them to. Maybe it's my lackadaisical ways, or maybe it's the five kids under 8...dunno...either way, it is what it is. So I'll try to get everything done in one post. It might be long, it might be disjointed - but it's my life!

Our summer has officially ended. The three older kids are back in school and loving it. I think they are enjoying it more than Mom and Dad are. It's so hard to know the "right" thing to do. Especially since "right" seems so illusive sometimes. I struggle with knowing what is the best, what is good, and what is settling. There are definitely things we disagree with and flat out don't like about the public school system. Things that boil our blood...grrrr. But at the same time I know that there are many, many good things for them to experience and learn - even through adversity and less than ideal situations. It's a constant question in my mind. I'm pretty sure someday we will end up homeschooling - just not sure when. Definitely don't want to get ahead of God on this one. Oh Wisdom, come, show yourself....stick around for while - you're much needed here!

With K, C, and M in school, these two guys are getting lots of snuggle time. How cute are they!?!?

We ended our summer break with a family trip to upstate NY to visit some very close, very dear friends. Two sets of friends, in fact! What a blessing. Jason baptized Kylie and Macey while we were there - such a beautiful time. I love my kiddos and love their unashamed love for God!

It was so great to reconnect with people we hadn't seen in a while. Even though we stayed busy, there were plenty of times where we just "were." Where we just shared life - love it! There is nothing like relationship that has endured years and experiences; losses and gains; ups and downs. Finding a group of people with like minds and hearts and vision and purpose and then being able to share life with them is a blessing beyond measure! Here is one of my favorite pics from the trip - their four amazing kiddos with our five - such an awesome group!!! If our kids grow up to be like theirs...wow...there is not much more I could hope for!

Hmmm...having issues with the photo thingy - can't get this one to delete or move or anything...oh well - they're cute enough to post twice!

Things are still moving along with our adoption process. We have found out that there are currently three families waiting in front of us. When we were told we had to wait until Malachi was 6 months old, we did not think these families would still be waiting. But, they are. So, we wait some more! It is difficult in some ways. But there is still such a peace knowing that God is in control. And He is good, and His timing is perfect!

One of the friends we visited in NY has an etsy shop full of super cute bags and stuff. I asked her to make a blanket for Kate - told her I was thinking of a ladybug-ish type thing. Check it out....LOVE IT!!! Thanks sooooo much Jenn!!!!

We are also gearing up for a yard sale soon. Here was my front play room on Sunday morning.

Ack...so much work to do....organizing and pricing and staging and selling! We are so grateful for all the donations we have received and the ones that are still coming in! Please join us in praying for favor on the Garage Sale and that all the items would sell!

God has been doing a lot of divine strategizing (is that a word?!) on our behalf lately, it seems. I was at the Discover Center this morning with a good friend and saw a lady there with a little girl in and Ergo Carrier that was obviously not her bio-baby. I took a chance, asked if she was adopted and found that, yes, she was brought home from Ethiopia in May. Such an encouragement to meet someone else who has walked through this journey! I also get to connect with another mom from the area that has just received their referral last week for a precious baby boy! So excited to connect and build relationship with other adoptive families. God is pretty cool!

Anyway, life is good. Loving this journey, loving this path with the Creator - even with the ups and downs, ins and outs - it is a blessed road to travel!

Birthdays, Horses, and Fundraising...oh my!

2010-07-15T08:34:00.000-07:00

So, we are in crazy fund raising mode right now! Do you see the "ticker" on the side? It's moving...slowly, but surely it's moving - so encouraging! So far, all we've been doing is selling baked goods at our church and Jason's office. For those of you who have enjoyed (I hope) the goodies and who have given above and beyond - thank you so much! We're looking at doing a garage sale in a month or so as well as an enchilada dinner at church - kind of daunting to think about, but exciting too. It's hard to wrap my mind around the fact that in a little over two and half months we will get to "meet" our little girl! So many unknowns, so much excitement!

In other Thompson news - Macey turned 5 yesterday! We took her horseback riding for the first time at this cute little ranch in town. She had SOOOO much fun!

I now have a 7,6,5,3 and 3 month old.

WOW! Sounds crazy - but life is going fairly smoothly lately. I LOOOVVVEEEE having them home during the summer time - I like being and seeing the driving force in their little lives - though I know there are times we could use a break from each other, I am enjoying seeing who they are - all the time- apart from school. And I must be honest, I do believe I have 5 of the coolest, funniest, sweetest, craziest, most amazing kids on the planet!

So, life is good, God is good, and I'm anxiously awaiting what's next!

Wordless Wednesday - My Big Mac

2010-07-07T13:55:00.001-07:00

Kinda lovin' this kid!

2010-07-02T06:08:00.000-07:00

At what point does one become a "mommy." Some would say it's the moment you conceive. Others say it's the moment you realize you are growing a life inside you. Still others would say you are not fully a "mommy" until you are holding a life in your hands.
But what about those children who are not grown in your womb,

but in your heart?

When our adoption journey began a few years ago, this little girl was just a far off thought...a dream, a desire, but oh so very far away. As we grow closer to the time of our referral, I find myself wondering so many things. Is she even born yet? What are her surroundings? Is she cherished, longed for, loved...missed? Who is speaking into her, praying over her, loving on her?

I think of and pray for her birth family...

what are they going through? What are the circumstances that have led them down the path of giving their baby girl to someone else to love and raise?

Even though we have not seen her yet, and don't really know much about her, I find myself missing her. At times, when out with the other 5 kids, I find myself looking for her, feeling like there is someone missing in the mix. How do you miss someone you haven't even met? How do you love someone you have never held? The answer must be found in Him who loved us first, who adopted us and called us heirs and joint-heirs with His Son. God, help me love her as you first loved us...unconditionally, beautifully, perfectly....without fear or reserve.

I long for this little girl, born in my heart...

Wordless Wednesday - Rain Storm: Thompson Style

2010-06-30T06:25:00.001-07:00

Wouldn't it be grand...

2010-06-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't it be amazing....

If every morning you woke up and on your spotless dining room table, in your perfectly clean kitchen, overlooking a beautifully manicured, dog-poo-free yard was a beautifully bound notebook sitting next to a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee and a super healthy breakfast? Wouldn't it be divine if you could sit for an hour or so and enjoy the quiet solitude of a peaceful morning while sipping your coffee and looking through the book? What, you may ask, would be in this book? Well, in my dream, it would be a detailed list of all the "hiccups" I would encounter in my day, along with intricate instructions on how to deal with them well, how to maintain my "fruit" while navigating my day

....wouldn't it be amazing....

Welcome to real life!

I wake up to an incessant three year old demanding juice - and if he doesn't get juice. NOW. one of you will not make it through the next 5 minutes. So I stumble downstairs and fumble for a sippy cup to fill with the brew-du-jour for my lovely little man and set him on couch. I rummage around for the french press (which I LOVE) and start the process of making this life giving brew. Around then the other kiddos come down stairs....all sleepy and snuggly and cute and...mine! Love, peace, happiness abounds, until: someone talks...agghhh...let IT begin! It's someone is sitting on my pillow, someone is looking at the baby and "I" was looking first, someone looked at me, someone touched me, someone stinks...seriously...aggghhhh. Somedays, most days, I stand dumbfounded, befuddled, speechless. I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO! I find myself overwhelmed, grumpy, irritable, angry....hmmm...finding my fruit rapidly falling to the floor. Oh, how I long for that book - the one that tells me how to be a kind, fair, gentle mom (referree?)

I realize the above paragraph sounds negative, complaining - yuck! I really do love being a mom, I adore my kids, I cherish these days together. My kids really don't fight ALL the time (though it feels like it sometimes). And quite often, my wonderful hubby does have coffee waiting for me in the morning. But, honestly - it's hard. Being in the trenches 24/7 can kinda get to you after a while. Honestly. Really.

I fight the urge to feel beaten down. I look at myself and I see what I am, then I see who I want to be, who I feel called to be. I know it's attainable, not of myself, not on my own -

I know there would not be a desire unless there was One who enables the dream.

The cry of my heart lately has been the request of Solomon, "Lord, give me wisdom to lead these people you have given me." I love that He does just that. That He loves these little people way more than I ever could. I love that He wants the best for them, for me, for us. I don't understand His ways, often don't understand His words, but I do know that abiding in Him makes me fruit-y and makes the fruit stick. So I wait, I try to listen to His voice telling me how He would parent these 5 beautiful lives full of hope and dreams and destiny...

I have hope...in Him...I have Joy, I have Freedom....I have hope.

Wordless Wednesday....May 27, 2000 - yep, 10 years tomorrow!

2010-05-26T14:43:00.001-07:00

Not Quite So Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

I sat down with the intentions of doing a "wordless wednesday" post, thinking that I could muster the energy to post a couple pics, and that even if I did have the heart to write today, there was a slim-to-none chance that my words would make sense. Then a miracle happened...Kids 1 and 4 are playing nicely in their room (at least I think so - I don't hear any screaming), Kid 4 is sleeping (a rare, but much appreciated, afternoon occurence) Kid 2 is blissfully playing outside with a school friend and Kiddo 5 is snoozing unaware in the swing (O blessed, blessed swing). I even have some potatoes boiling on the stove...thinking some clam chowder might be good. Anyway - so here I am, with no one clamoring for my attention!!!!

It's been a crazy 7 weeks...can't believe it's been that long since God sent Malachi to us...I am SOOO in love with him. He is such a wise soul already - or so it seems. He has these amazing eyes that stare and see and love - wow!

The other kiddos have had different levels of issues when it comes to adjusting, but overall we are doing well. I am amazed and how much more I feel for each of them every day. God is graciously and, yes, gently teaching me to let Him parent through me. I tend to screw up..a lot...every day.

A friend and I were talking about how maybe we could be great parents to one kid, maybe even two. And here we are with me having 5, soon to be 6, and she is raising her 6. What in the world was God thinking? I mean, really, why would He give innocent little people to messed up big ones...really, why?!?!? I've been asking that a lot lately.

It's easy to call our "worthiness" into question, easy to dwell on the mess ups. But here enters grace, grace, grace, grace....man, I love that word...love that concept - would be lost w/out that promise. "He gently leads those with little lambs." How I desperately cling to that on a daily basis!

I feel like a broken blog record...feel like I have posted on this a lot. But, hey, this is my life...this is my "song" right now - one of failure and redemption and fear and hope and lots of amazing little people looking at me and their Daddy to show them the way to our Daddy! What an amazing adventure. What a humbling mandate..."make disciples, raise them to be men and women after My heart! Teach them, show them, lead them, love them...!"

I'm hoping to post more frequently...don't give up on me. We are entering another crazy season of finalizing our adoption - grants, fund raising (look for some opportunities to help us bring "Kate" home...coming soon), praying, travel...etc. I am scared, excited, anxious...it's a weird feeling to miss someone I have never met... but our family feels incomplete w/out her - so excited to see her, meet her, know her!!!

Wordless Wednesday - fun with the camera...and a cute 2 year old!

2010-05-12T06:04:00.001-07:00

5 Things I Love Friday

2010-03-12T06:07:00.001-08:00

1. I am loving that my car radio is broken. Seriously. The conversations I have had with the kids and God in the midst of the enforced silences are priceless...who knew?!

2. I love that in no more than 17 days I will get to meet this little guy who is squirming and moving and budding with life inside of me.

3. I love that my husband is so good at so many things and that he willingly and generously gives of his time and energy to bless people with his talents!

4. I love how God provides for even the most "trivial" of things - He knows our needs, our wants, and HE LOVES to bless us. Wow!

5. I love friends who call just to say "Hi, I'm thinking about you!" No agenda, nothing but loving the way God loves! Thanks, Mims - you bless me!

And, because blog posts are better with pictures, here's a few from an adventure along the Nation Ford Greenway last weekend!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-10T14:31:00.001-08:00

Your Hope a Fire...

2010-03-09T05:06:00.000-08:00

Oh man...I feel ruined this morning. The good, deep, messing up your insides kind of ruined. I was lurking on a blog a found a couple years ago and saw this song/video by Sara Groves. Wow - what an amazing song, what inspired lyrics.

Oh God, let me be changed by Your heart for the hurting. I especially love the line "Your courage asks me what I am made of and what I know of love." What a challenge.

I want to LIVE LOVE.

Not just the superficial "I feel for them" love. But the deep, sacrificing, no more counting the costs kind of love. The love that propels me out of my "comfort" and keeps me there.

Five Things I Love Friday

2010-03-04T17:21:00.001-08:00

1. Kylie Nicole (around 2 years in this picture). She is light and joy and excitement - love who she is, excited for who she is becoming, humbled to be a part of the process!
2. Caleb Aaron (around 7 months here) - He is hope and peace and determination. So much in this little guy! God is going to great things in and through him - my little prophet!

3. Macey Jourdan (almost 2 here) - She is energy and drive and purity all rolled up in one dynamic package. The places she will go, the lives she will touched are unfathomable, I am blessed to be along for the ride!

4. Micah Samuel (4 months in this picture). He is freedom and discovery and overcoming! Such an amazing little man, so much talent, so much potential - thrilled for the journey!

5. Jason Samuel - He is encouragement, patience, protection, provider, integrity, determination, stability. I still can't believe that God allowed us to be together - I love him for who he is, who he is made to be and who he is becoming - wouldn't want to do this life with anyone else!

Hurry up and...wait!

2010-03-04T05:41:00.000-08:00

Get ready, get ready, make sure everything is prepared! Now....wait! Oh yeah, and wait some more! Seems to be the theme of our lives lately. It can drive a girl crazy, or it can drive a girl to Daddy's arms to wait with Him. I think I prefer the later.

Not only are we anxiously awaiting and preparing (nesting like crazy) for our new little man to arrive, hopefully w/in the next couple weeks, but we are also finally done with the bulk of our paperwork for our adoption. We sent the Dossier in and were expecting to hear that we would receive a referral in a couple months since we are pursuing a child that is more difficult to place. Notice two key words there :WE and EXPECTING. Ha! If there is ANYTHING we should have learned in the last couple months it's that when it comes to children and adoption, nothing is determined by "we" but by "HIM" and "Expectations" should not even be a part of our vocabulary.

After talking with the amazing ladies at AAI, we found that they require us to wait for 6 months after a new addition to the family (Thompson 5.0). That would put us receive a referral around October 1st. Ethiopian courts meet sometime in October and then add another couple months to get everything else squared away and we will be traveling sometime in Early 2011. Not quite the "couple months" we were expecting!

I'll admit that when I first had this conversation with AAI I was disappointed, upset, frustrated. I mean don't they know how much WE want this, how much this did not fit in to our EXPECTATIONS? Hmmm...probably not the best attitude! Took me a couple days to realize that this is not about ME, and MY, and I! This is about what God has ordained, about what He has for us, and for our daughter(s)! I definitely see the wisdom in taking time to let the family get used to having a new baby before adding someone(s) else. I also realize, thanks to my mom, that maybe, just maybe, our little girl(s) may not even be born yet...!?

I'm pretty sure I've come to a place of peace with this. Hey, if God wants her home earlier, He can absolutely speak to the people in charge - I know they listen! So, for now, we wait, we plan, we hope, we pray for our little girl(s). But most of all, we TRUST and we surrender!

On a side note, check out this link to my friend's blog. They have received a match to an amazing little girl, Olivia, and are working like crazy to raise money to bring her home. Monica (the amazing mommy) makes adorable necklaces and is auctioning her anniversary ring on ebay to help raise more funds. Please support this amazing family! How blessed Olivia is to have them love her!

Alright...I have to go get my cookies out of the oven. Seriously, who wakes up at 6:30 with an insatiable NEED to bake oatmeal cookies?!?!? Oh yeah - me!!!

Wordless Wednesday - Kinda

2010-03-03T06:09:00.000-08:00

5 Things I Love Friday

2010-02-19T04:44:00.000-08:00

A few of my friends here in SC (and now in NY) do a weekly update on their blogs - "5 Things I Love Friday." I find I am always blessed and encouraged when I read them...taking time out of hectic, kidded, dishes, pregnancy, work filled schedules to just be thankful seems to refresh the soul unlike anything else. Thought I'd give it a try!!

1. I love that Macey and Micah wake up with so much energy ready to play and discover with each other. Right now they are riding their scooters around the house - best friends!

2. I love feeling this new little man wiggle and groove inside my belly - can't wait to meet him!

3. I love that my hubby recognized that I was a little overwhelmed last night at did the dishes for me - then rubbed my feet while watching chick snowboarding!

4. I love that in the midst of uncertainty and waiting and changing perspectives about life God is faithful - He is certain, and constant, and never changing!

5. I love that I heard the birds singing this morning - Spring is on its way!

A Whole New World

2010-02-16T12:10:00.000-08:00

Caleb is learning to read! I know that I have been through this process once before with Ky, but it really does seem like Kylie was born knowing how to read! It came so easily and naturally for her. She was reciting ABC's and 123's in English and Spanish at two - crazy kid! It's been a bit of a harder journey for Caleb. Last summer he wasn't even willing to pick up a pencil for me, much less practice writing his name. Honestly, I was worried about how he would do in Kindergarten. I KNEW he could do it. I had seen and heard of him "performing" for other people, but not for mom. Hmmmm. Anyway, I think I was more stressed about his first day of school than he was. Well, sure enough, he comes home in the first week telling me that he really wishes I would have worked with him more on his lower case letters because that is what they are working on in school! Ha - I chose not to remind him that he wouldn't even think of writing, but encouraged him to keep working at it. Gotta love this mom gig!!

So, now at half way through the school year, things are starting to click. He is reading street signs all the time, cereal boxes, books and, his favorite - Calvin and Hobbes! I love seeing a new world open up to him! I love the wonder and delight in his voice after he has struggled with a difficult word and come out victorious!

It never ceases to amaze me the way God teaches us through our kids. Every day. We just have to be teachable. I wonder, as I watch Caleb discover, how much Joy our Daddy receives when we conquer a particular battle. I wise man once told me "The bigger the battle, the bigger the victory!" It seems when we have worked and labored and sought after and desired something for so long, that the joy we receive in accomplishment is that much sweeter. I have found that spiritual breakthrough is much the same. Sure, I know that God could make a struggle lessened, could make a battle easier, could make an answer more obvious. But, I wonder if He did that, would we seek Him still? Would my heart long after His to a lesser degree? Would I be more inclined to pat myself on the back instead of realizing that all good things come from Him? Even though I know I grumble and give up and struggle again and try some more and grumble some more....I am thankful that His wisdom is infinite. I am thankful that even in the midst of struggle "*1. He is good, #2. He loves me, and everything else begins at #3"

Another Adoption Update!

2010-02-09T09:23:00.000-08:00

Our Dossier is in the mail! We sent it out last Saturday - what a crazy rush of emotion! I was having little panic-y moments thinking about the finality of it. It's been a LONG process - longer than some, I would imagine. We moved 3000 miles away from "home," found out we were pregnant with number 5, two of the four kids started school, and many more changes occurred all while working on paperwork, home studies, research etc. There were moments of dread, hope, fear, excitement, anticipation; pretty much the whole spectrum of emotion.

Now - we wait, we pray, we trust, we hope! I'm not sure what, or who, the next step will bring, but am excited for our family to be complete (for the time being), and to love whomever God places in our lives. We ask for and covet any and all prayers sent on our behalf. There is a Joy in the Journey!!

This is Why.

2010-01-27T06:10:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are wondering, we are still "in process." Still waiting for a couple forms to come in, still discussing, still praying about the specific direction our adoption is going to take - or more specifically, where God wants to take it; take us. Being 7 1/2 months pregnant has made some of the decisions a little more, well, intense!

I find myself explaining more and more to friends, family, and complete strangers, the specifics of why we are choosing this route. A lot of times I am at a loss for words, especially with people we don't know on an intimate level. The story is long, the journey has been laborious to say the least! A common response is "well, it kinda chose us, not the other way around."

Last week, while surfing other families adoption blogs, I found a post on "Gotcha Day" videos. I've posted two that moved me to tears...well actually more like propelled me into sobbing, booger crying - All I can say about them is : "This is Why"

So, grab your box of tissue and 15 mins and enjoy!

Trade You Shirts

2009-11-30T12:50:00.000-08:00

I don't know that I've ever posted something by someone else on here - but this following story really touched me. I was cruising through a list of facebook friends that I don't usually get updates on. I found myself on the page of a friend, David, from Junior High. He is now a pastor of a church near Charleston, I believe. Anyway, with his permission, here is his story...enjoy!

In bed, and attempting to hinder my leaving him for the night, Isaac began unsnapping the buttons on my western-styled shirt. This is a funny game to him still for some reason...

It began long ago when he was only turning two and not three he would find his way to my belly button and coyly jab his right index finger as deep in as it would go. I would surprise at the electric-like jolt that radiated from said area and then dutifully proclaim in chastising and joking tones "get out of my bellybutton!" To which Isaac's response would be seizures of glee as he laughed hysterically at this game of trumped up pain, and pretense of intrusion. He would then double his efforts to reach that same spot in order to get a similar faux-reaction of surprise and harassment. Ahh... the crazy little games we play that lead our children into the therapist's office later on in life... but I digress.

Tonight he didn't look for my bellybutton as he pulled at my shirt. Standing there in his room, I sang him "twinkle twinkle little star," and he matched me with word and pitch and my heart soared.

Pulling the last button/snap open, he wraps his arms around me inside of my newly opened shirt, and lays his head on my chest and sighs. "I love you daddy"
"I love you too buddy," My heart brakes. "Isaac, I made a mistake" I started "When you didn't listen earlier about taking the leash off the dog and she ran away, I spanked you and I shouldn't have. I was angry, and what I did was wrong. I'm sorry I hurt you buddy" my voice is high and tears are flowing at this point. "I should have waited, and maybe just put you in time out, will you forgive me?"

He looks up into my face to try and understand what is going on, what he should be feeling in the presence of his father's tears and he begins to weep too. "I love you so much daddy. I'm sorry I took her collar off., I'm sorry I took her collar off, I'm sorry..." I stop him.

"Buddy, you didn't know, the only thing you did wrong was not listen... I forgive you for taking off the collar."

So gently with head still buried in my chest he says, "I forgive you too."

"Does your bottom still hurt?" I ask.

"No, it doesn't hurt anymore"

"Does your heart feel okay?"

"Yes it does," and with bright eyes "We're not sad anymore, daddy! That's so good!" to which we both must smile.

" Daddy," he asks "Can I have that shirt tonight?

I take it off and hand it to him. It smells of me, my work outside, my deodorant, and cologne. I ask as I leave, Do you like to smell daddy when you're in bed?.

A broad smile creeps onto his face. "I do, and, my friends, and Zoe, and caffeine (long story but true words), and food and mommy" You see all of those were the smells on my shirt.

It was then I realized it was more than a comfort trinket for the night. It was the story of his day our day, and our relationship. It was of mowing the grass, playing with the dog, running errands for Life Group, brownies, coffee, kissing on mom, wrestling with his Lifegroup friends, all the food we ate; and buried under everything are deodorant, and the perfume of reconciled emotions to mistakes I made out of frustration and haste.

My shirt tonight, as it is stuffed underneath little boy chin, and little boy arm, represents what it means to truly desire a person. To really take me in for all I am, every heinous act, horrid smell, outside musk, and look deeply into my eyes and say "can I have your shirt tonight?

Of course you can my son...Can I borrow one of yours to snuggle up next to as well? I prefer the one that started out soft in the morning and by mid afternoon felt plastic, and by night you were wearing sandpaper, because of all the food and grit stuck between fibers. That 's the one I want. I want your whole day Ike, right next to me while I sleep.

Yes, I'm a father, I'm weird, but I am so desperately in love with the people God has given me to love, that anything more might cause me to burst.

Quick Update...

2009-11-20T11:56:00.001-08:00

Update:

It's been a crazy couple of months - but that's nothing new!!! I've been going nonstop (or so it feels) with Doctor Appointments for the kiddos and me, a road trip to NY with a dear friend, organizing all of our adoption paperwork, and just regular old "life stuff." It's been a season of change, joy, sorrow, hope and anticipation for the future!

I am finally starting to feel better - no more puking all day every day. With the other four pregnancies, I didn't start feeling semi-normal until about 25 weeks - with this one, it was at about 16 weeks that I was having more good days than bad. For that, I am EXTREMELY thankful. God is good, and merciful and faithful! We had an ultrasound a couple weeks ago. Everything looks good and we found out we are having another BOY! All four kids came with us and watched the little guy on the screen - so fun, and I hope, so memorable for them.

The adoption process is going very well. Our home study is complete, approved, and in the hands of the adoption agency! We hope to have our Dossier complete and sent out by the 1st week in December, pending some notarization of documents (quite an ordeal, let me tell you)! I have been cautiously diving into the world of adoption grants, loans, and fund raisers. The kids have decided they would like to help raise some money and are making bracelets to sell. Macey is quite the little sales person and already has two or three sold - before they are even made! I will be posting some pictures of the finished products soon if anyone out there in blogland would like to contribute.

We do have some specific prayer requests if you are a praying person: Finances are probably the top request right now - we need to raise about $6000 dollars in the next few months. Typing that, it sounds daunting, but I know my God is big and that is totally a doable amount for Him! The second request is for a vehicle. We've decided that we are going to be "that family." The one with the 12 passenger van...! I am actually kind of excited...more room, more seats - more kids! We are looking, praying for a good deal. When we first started thinking about adoption I really felt a vehicle is something that God would provide for us, w/out a lot of stress involved. I'm holding onto that, and trying not to panic as the time draws closer.

I'll leave you with a couple pictures of the last few months. Enjoy:

Micah jammin' with his friend Brighten:The whole crew at Historic Bratonsville:
21 Week Belly Shot:

Caleb-zilla:
The kiddos at the airshow:
My loves inside a war plane:
"The Girls"

To Love Deeply

2009-10-17T09:49:00.000-07:00

To Love Deeply

How do you love, really love, when you know the object of your love is temporary? How do you do relationship the way relationship was meant to be when there is the possibility, the probability, that the closeness of relationship will be compromised?

How do you embrace change, and not run screaming in the other direction?

When we moved to SC a little over a year ago, we had a feeling that it was not to be a permanent location. We didn’t know exactly what that meant (and still don’t) but neither of us felt that this was to be our last move. When we started building relationships and strengthening existing ones, I knew in the recesses of my heart that at some point we would have to say goodbye. I just always figured it would be us doing the leaving – that’s way easier, right? I’d be the one pulling the rug out, not the other way around…ummm…maybe not so much!

In the 15 months that we’ve been here, we’ve been blessed with friendships with like-minded, like-spirited friends. It is an amazing thing to connect, and to keep connecting on a level that is not found every day. Depth ordained by God, community that is uncommon. When we first started feeling the kindling of the flame of friendship, my first instinct was to pull back…to preserve myself from the pain of saying goodbye. If you are not invested in something, it is way easier to let go.

But then…

But then I was thrust into a situation, albeit willingly, where the overwhelming theme was “love deeply the ones that are with you, while they are with you.” I watched an amazing woman of God struggle with that very thing, and though I was not in her shoes, per say, I felt and learned right along side of her. When someone comes into your life for an undetermined amount of time, what is your reaction? Do you dive in? Do you wade slowly, cautiously, trying to find your footing? Do you turn and run back to the safety of the shore? Do you immerse yourself, knowing that those you love may be ripped away?

I witnessed this woman seek and struggle and laugh and cry. I watched her surrender to her desire to love the way Christ loves…with all that she is, no matter what. To give everything she knew how to, holding nothing back, though the outcome was uncertain. She probably has no clue what an eternal impact this had on my life - on the way I do relationship.

So, here I am now, watching friends leave. Saying goodbye to “those” types of friends. You know, the ones you will have for…ever. I do feel sad, I do feel kind of like the rug has been pulled. But, in the midst of it, I feel peace. I know they are all where God has placed them. I would rather have them there – whether it be 3000 or 300 miles away, than next door to me. There is comfort in knowing that I have loved to the best of my ability – flawed and wounded though it may be – I have loved.

A great man of God once told us to “hold lightly to people, places, and possessions.” Hard, but true and necessary. If our palms are open, if our plans are moldable on the potters wheel, if our hearts are softened to the leading of Love, than change is not quite as scary as once thought.

Dossiers and Babies

2009-07-31T12:33:00.000-07:00

Yay! Our dossier packet came in the mail today! It is not quite as daunting as I had anticipated AND we need about 6K less than I had previously expected for this phase of the process. (We still have to raise that 6K, just not immediately). So excited to get going on this!

Kylie and Caleb received their class assignments for school today. It's pretty crazy to think that I'll have two in school this year. They grow up so stinkin' fast! Speaking of growing...we just recently found out I am are growing another Thompson! Baby will be here in late in March or Early April. We're not quite sure how this will effect the adoption, but we are still pushing through with it. From what we can tell, infant referrals from Ethiopia are about 7-10 months out - so they could be arriving at or very close to the same time - crazy, exciting, scary, wonderful!

It is so easy to shy away from what we feel God calling us to because of the enormity of it in the moment. But, over and over and over again, espeically during this season, I have felt God saying "My grace IS sufficient, I AM made perfect in your weakness." And, oh - how my weakness is magnified on a daily basis. There is nothing like being a parent to highlight my shortcomings. And there is nothing like knowing His mercies are new EVERY day to keep me going!

What's New?!

2009-07-17T05:28:00.000-07:00

Wow - what a year! July 11th marked one year for the Thompson Clan in South Carolina - it's been a year of adventure, discovery, new beginnings. Kylie successfully finished her first year in public school and she and Caleb are getting ready to start back - she in 1st grade and he in Kindergarten. Macey has fully embraced her life as a 4 year old (as of the 14th of July)! She loves all things ballet and barbies and will tell you about any of those things, and more....all. day. long - I love it! Micah turned two a month ago and is quite the little man. I would say his favorite thing right now is the guitar (tar) and pic (he calls it a key) and daddies guitar pedals. He loves to walk around holding it saying "two, one, two, one - sing!"

Jason and I celebrated our 9 year anniversary at the end of May! I could not imagine walking through this life with anyone other than him. I look forward to the next phase of our lives, exploring, learning, laughing and loving!

So that's what has been happening...now to what we are looking forward to -

Some of you who follow this blog and know us personally know that Jason and I have had a heart for adoption for a couple years. We have talked and prayed, sought council and advice from family and friends and followed (stalked?) quite a few blogs on the subject. After a big push from God and clear "now is the time," we are now officially "in the process" of adopting a child from Ethiopia!

For those of you who are familiar with the adoption process, we have completed our homestudy and adoption application. We are waiting for our dossier packet to arrive (hopefully this week) and applying for the I-600 and visas, and passports. We are also working on raising the funds we will need when we turn in our dossier.

We are excited, scared, nervous, thrilled and amazed! It's been quite a journey to get to this point. We have not always been on the same page, but our God is so faithful and has gently brought us to the same vision for our family. He is a beautiful God!

We ask that you pray for us as we walk in this new phase of our lives - pray for wisdom, for divine provision, for grace for us and Kylie, Caleb, Macey, and Micah. Also for favor with the courts and most of all - please pray for our baby in Ethiopia; that he/she will be kept safe and loved, that he/she will know that their family loves them and is working on bringing them home!

I hope to be able to update this blog more regularly - how many times have I said that? School is starting soon, so maybe, just maybe, the craziness of summer will subside a bit...but who knows?!!

The Little Graduate

2009-06-04T05:24:00.001-07:00

Kylie Graduated from Kindergarten yesterday. I swore I was not going to get emotional...I mean it's just Kindergarten, right? But, sure enough - and true to form - as she walked up in her paper hat and shook her teachers hand and received her empty white paper rolled up with a blue ribbon, there were tears, and snot, and the attempt at an indiscreet eye/nose wipe...ahhhh....!

I did have the wherewithal, however, to capture a few pictures:

Kylie on her first day of Kindergarten!

Field Day 2009

Graduation Smile!
Graduation Curtsy!

After the Program...so Pretty!

Happy Birthday Micah!

2009-06-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

Micah is 2 today...how time flies! We love you little man!....
6/2/07

6/2/08

6/2/09

Food Thieves and Storms

2009-05-29T09:49:00.001-07:00

A little while ago, as I was planning our "menu" for the week, I had a startling revelation. It seriously takes me three days (not consecutively) and three different stores to accumulate all we will need for the month. Yikes...Now, granted, I usually take at least 3 of the 4 kids with me, so the prospect of going to all three stores in one day is absolutley out of the question, but still...it's quite the process. We go to the warehouse store - BJ's (like costco), Wal-Mart, and usually Harris Teeter because they have killer coupon deals. Anyway, this really is all a segway into why the following pictures caused me quite a bit of distress.

We had just gotten back from a massive trip to BJ's. I had found these whole wheat tortillas that I was excited to try with some hummus and veggies. The older kids were wandering around the back yard and Micah was playing inside while I unloaded the groceries. I came in to find this:

Apparently you should never leave a hungry-almost-two-year-old alone, even for a second, with a whole table of food....he's quite crafty, and very cute!!!

And just because I thought it was sooooo freakin' amazing, here's a couple pictures of an awesome storm that rolled in last night. I would have taken more pictures, but the neighbor was looking at me weird...I think he though I was taking pictures of his house. Anyway, the storm was loud and intense - such a beautiful, frightening display of the Creator's power - kind of like Him - Beautiful, Frightening, Awesome!

Risk

2009-05-24T08:35:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about risk lately. Now, more than ever before in my life, I feel God is asking, and I am more aware, of risk. The unknown, the unseen.

I really don't like the "idea" of risk. I like to know what will happen: how, when, the definite outcome, how it will effect me and my family, what it will look like in the future. Kind of makes me think of what a wise man said once "Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen." Ahhh...the unseen, the unknown. That's the hardest part for me. Kinda like taking a leap of a cliff, simply because your Daddy told you too and He said He would catch you.

I have been seeing risk in all sorts of areas in my life lately. There is risk in love, in relationship, in obedience. God asked us to move across the country and be part of what He is doing here...a bit risky by my calculations! There are other things God is asking us to do lately that sound just a little out of the box, a little unexpected in most people's opinions.

I am so grateful that God is not a God of the ordinary...He dwells outside of the box, He requires risk, He desires us to live in crazy faith! I love that there is blessing in obedience. I am more and more convinced that if we are truly seeking His will, His face, then whichever way we turn, whatever path we take, He will bless us!

So, bring on the unknown, let us walk in the unseen. If that is where You are, that is where I want to be...I want to jump!

A Huntin' We Will Go....

2009-02-11T04:45:00.001-08:00

I've never had to "hunt" for a church. Granted, I've been a voice in the decision before, but the final decision has never rested mostly on my shoulders. When I was younger, I went where my parents went. When Jason and I were newly married, the transition from my parents church to his was natural. For nine years, we were happy, content, challenged, blessed, stretched, and HOME at The Bridge.

Enter: "the move." Honestly, I think leaving The Bridge, the amazing friends we had there and our superb pastors (Tom and Nadine) was one of the hardest things we had to do. But, we knew God was calling us, wooing us, moving us. It was clear.

So, we left our home and ventured to the great state of South Carolina. Thus began the hunting journey. We tried a couple different churches. Big and small; crazy and not-so-crazy! They all had different, unique "feels." None were "bad," but neither did they feel like "home."

We were given a word from a woman I admire and respect deeply before we left. "You are being given a new set of tools to use in SC. Don't look for the familiar, don't depend on the familiar." Hmmmm....what could this mean. How would it apply to churches. Were we to find ourselves in a huge, traditional, conservative church? Were we to not look for the "home" feeling? How would we know...when would we know?

A few months were spent at a big (Really, really big) church. It was annointed, it was moving with the Spirit, both Jason and I were ministered to, but for some reason we never felt it was right. This led me to think - what is important in "church." What is essential; what should or should not effect the decision; what are is just a matter of preference? Can you, should you, allow your kids comfort at church to be a factor, and how big of one? Do you look for a place where you can be ministered too, or is it more improtant to find a place where you can serve? Can there be a healthy balance of both? Can you compromise on some things - or on nothing? I'd be interested to hear other's feedback on these questions...?!

We have found a place - we feel like God is moving there, like the pastor has God's attention, and that God is excited about where He is taking this church. It is somewhat familiar - it looks like The Bridge, but in so many ways is so very different. The kids (even Caleb) enjoy going - they love Sunday school and are quickly making friends. I am being challenged in the concept of an organized, official denomination again...who would have thought!? We know this is where God has landed us for now, there is peace and great anticipation...that's gotta be good, right?

I still miss the Bridge - a lot! But, for everything, there is a season....and God designs each one to be beautiful and fruitful...

Until next time....

D-

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T09:55:00.000-08:00

In the absence of a Christmas Card this year...

Merry Christmas - may your life be filled to overflowing with the presence and peace of Christ!

We love you...

Jason, Danielle, Kylie, Caleb, Macey, and Micah!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T06:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! The Turkey (or as the kids call him, "Fred,") is happily stuffed and in the oven baking nicely! Kylie decorated our chalkboard with a "Tap Dancing Thanksgiving Turkey!" She has become quite the little artist.
The kids also started a ballet/tumbling class this week. A friend in the church is teaching our kids and our friends up the street - incorporating worship and dance and movement in the class. We love it - so do the kids!

Macey has got to be the cutest three year old ballerina I've ever seen!

Here's a couple more pictures - just for fun!

Life here is starting to feel more normal. The kids are adjusting well, though I'm not sure Macey fully realizes that we are here to stay- at least for a while. Micah made a mess with the fireplace the other day and Macey was panicking "Mom, the people that live here are so not going to be happy." Hopefully it will start to feel more permanent to her soon.

I've been learning a lot about who I am, apart from "doing" and absent of self-made expectations. I feel like I am seeing who I am, who I was meant to be - there has been a lot of revelation and chipping away of things that have been waiting in the back ground for too long. I know freedom is coming, I know healing is on it's way. And, though I do not enjoy the process, there is a peace in the purging of the old.

Well - the kitchen is calling once again and there is a parade to be watched....

We are immensely thankful for you, our friends and family - may God bless you to overflowing...

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Story

2008-11-19T04:53:00.001-08:00

There once was a girl of seventeen

She was kinda cute

A little sassy

But definitely no beauty queen

She was smart and funny and

Quite content

To be a teenager with no

Romantic entanglement

Until….

One crazy evening at

Red Robin

She met a young man with

Braids on his noggin

He had striking eyes

(she could tell he was seeing through her)

And was twitching and smiling

Talking of The Miracle Worker

Now, to be honest

This first little meeting

Didn’t do a ton to set

Her heart fleeting

But, an impression was made

And destiny set in motion

God’s had was upon it

Wooing and developing a devotion

Then a few weeks later

At a Mexico gathering

She heard this braided guy

Pray – just a smattering

Something happened then and there

That left her changed FOREVER

Her love began to grow and swell

She knew she would love him FOREVER

Down the road they traveled

For two years – maybe a bit more

She fell in love with his heart, his laugh

Even had a hand it what he wore

There were “random” bus assignments

And Sibling guitar classes

Innocent boat rides

But no romantic passes…

But through all that time – two VERY long years

She kept her desire a secret

Hoping that he would know one day

Her heart was his – and keep it!

Finally one day – her dream came true

Her hopes took flight

As her prince talked to her father

That beautiful September night!

Now here’s a glimpse of things to come…

Her emotion ran deep and wild

So all that night she didn’t sleep

And puked really loud …it wasn’t mild!!!

The next evening he approached her

With a bit of a nervous grin

And asked if she had seen his heart….

Let the romance begin!!!

9 months later they were married

And off to a beautiful start

One of adventure and awe

Two people….one heart!

Now, here they are – 8 ½ years later

4 kids, cross country move

Many journeys, great stories

And what do you think they prove?

That love is a road

That when traveled with care

Is a path that this boy and this girl

Will always, forever share

They show us that faith

Is a rock that won’t budge

That prayers and commitment

Overcome any insecurity or grudge

So deeply devoted -

This woman and this man

Will walk, run, or jump

In line with the Creator’s hand

Where will their path lead

No one really knows

Will there be more kids

Hey – probably so!

Will there be ups?

And will there be downs?

Will there be smiles?

And will there be frowns?

Absolutely – to all the above

But one thing this girl knows –

Nothing will diminish my love!

You – my lovely 31 year old

And smart, handsome, gracious and kind

You are gentle and patient

I think maybe you can read my mind!!! ;)

You calm my fears

You hold me tight

You love me deep

You lead me right!!!

There is no one else

I would rather share

This journey of life

From here to there….

I love you,

My hot OLD man!!

You make me smile

Like no one can!!

Here’s to many many more

Birthdays for you

May your desires be fulfilled

Your destiny come true!

I LOVE YOU!!!

Here's to the rest of the journey...

Updates and Pictures

2008-09-29T04:32:00.000-07:00

Kids on the Carousel at the zoo. Micah did not want to get off....ever!
The girls on the Dionosaur!

The gang looking at the fish. Micah kept saying "whoa, wow..."

Kylie got to feed the giraffe out of her hand. So fun!

Kylie's "rock star" birthday cake. Didn't turn out too bad.

Kylie with her groupies!
Happy Birthday Morning!

Thank you Grandma Patty and Grandpa Steve!
Did Grandma Nita and Grandpa Matt seriously get me underwear for my birthday?
Oh - and a princess nightgown too - amazing! Thanks guys!

This one is for you Grandpa Matt - A Biker in the making!

Caleb and his dart gun (which we have three of now) - makes for great family "bonding!"

As you can see, it's been a busy month. Birthdays, the Zoo, getting settled it - I can't believe it's almost October! The weather is finally starting to cool down here and we are spending a lot of time outside riding bikes and playing in the yard. The kids are making friends in the neighborhood - there are two sets of 3 girls the same age as Kylie and Macey that live within three houses of us , and a 4 year old boy just down the street for Caleb to play with. It's fun to watch them develop and branch out.

We took Micah to an orthopedic specialist for his arm a week or so ago. The Doc disagreed with our Dr. in Seattle at opted to cast Micah's arm to see if it would set/grow into place as he developed. After the initial x-ray that same day, he realized he had casted the arm in the wrong position. So, they sawed (yikes) the cast off and it ended up hurting/burning Micah's arm. At that point, as two slightly distressed and unhappy parents, we discussed the info further and decided to seek a 3rd opinion to see if we can have two specialists agree. After researching hospitals a bit, we have an appointment at Duke Medical University (about two hours away) on Nov. 4th and a Genetics appointment at the same place the day before. We have a bit more peace about this decision. The hospital is highly rated and our phone experience has been really positive so far. If you think of it, please continue to pray that we will listen and hear and know what decisions to make concerning his care.

We are continuing to attend Morning Star Church. As we make more friends and connections, it is starting to feel more normal, more like home for the time being. I still deeply miss the closeness and intimacy of my friends at The Bridge, but know that this is where God has us for right now. I'm excited to see what He has set out for us to learn and receive and give and do...both at the church and in our every day life. Bring on the adventure!!!

Until Later -- D-

9 years ago today...

2008-09-16T15:58:00.001-07:00

9 years ago today...
I had not slept at all the night before
I threw up my strawberries and cream oatmeal in the morning
I spent a torturous day working in the JC Penny's Junior Department
I sat through a seemingly never ending worship set
I watched the most amazing man in the world approach me and say these words
"I think someone stole my heart and I'm thinking you might know where to find it..."

Thank you, Jason, for nine years of joy, adventure, love, passion and excitement...for 8 1/2 years of marriage and four stunningly beautiful children. Thank you for loving me in the truest way - for being patient and kind and putting me and our family above yourself. Thank you for listening to God and being a gentle, wise leader. I love you....

D-

The comfort of the South...

2008-09-16T04:47:00.000-07:00

I have heard it said that those who hale from the south find comfort in small things. Warm summer evenings, a tall glass for cold sweet tea, the slower pace of life, and the sound of Cicadas chirping in the trees. Whoa -- hold it there - what? The sound of what? The night we arrived in South Carolina, Tyler picked us up at the airport and kindly drove to his home. When we stepped out of the van, we were greeted by a mildly deafening noise - Jason and I were sure that someone was sawing something in the woods- after all, they do live in a new construction area. But, at this time of night...something didn't add up. Nope - no sawing here, just the bugs...just the cicadas. Ahhhh...freaky - it was SOOOO loud. Then, this weekend when I was clearing off the deck I saw this little guy - he is dead - but still kinda creepy:

And definitely NOT COMFORTING!

In more wholesome, and less buggy news - the local Chic-Fil-A had a family/princess night. If you dressed up, you got a free kids meal. Cool, free food, I thought! AND - they had free horse drawn carriage rides. Game on! I thought it'd be a fun night out, the kids would get to dress up and ride in a carriage - short, sweet, we go home. Think again! I have never seen so many princesses in my life - all in one, very small, space. The kids had a blast and didn't complain about having to wait almost an hour for a carriage ride...enjoy the pics! (Oh - Caleb wants me to tel you that he is "the dragon guarding that castle" - just in case anyone was wondering)...

Kindergarten, scuppernogs and buggies

2008-09-12T09:45:00.000-07:00

I know, it's been a long time since I've updated. Things have started to settle down a bit here and feel a little more normal. Kylie has gotten into a good routine with school and is loving the social aspect of class and excelling at the academic parts. It's been interesting to see the evidence of favor in her life. There have been two "drawings" that they have started up in since the beginning of school. One was for the "Queen/King of the day" and the other for the letter "expert." She has been the first one drawn for both of these. She says something like "I was hoping and praying that it would be me, and my wish came true!" Gotta love it! It's been a challenge for me to let her go every day and not have that constant influence on who she plays with and what she does. We're wondering how to give her a sense of independence and self but still keep her well grounded...letting her make her own choices while still guiding her. It'll be a fun journey!

Caleb is really coming into his own with Kylie gone during the day. It's quite a novel thing for him to be the oldest...and it fits him well. Micah and Macey are quickly becoming playmates and enjoying one another. Macey is quite the social butterfly. Think Kylie 3 years ago and mutliply it - by a lot! She will talk to anyone, anywhere about anything. Micah has developed into quite the ham and is saying "I love you," "thank you," and his all time favorite "Daaaaaa," (for use whenever Jason is in earshot).

You may be asking about the title of this blog about now. What is a scuppernog, you ask? A couple weeks ago, I was at a fruit stand hoping to find some fresh cherries for a pie. (Oh, how I long for some cherries from the Gabriel's orchard...nothing even close here). They were out - no surprise- but they did have a HUGE crate of scuppernogs and muscadines. Playing the out of towner perfectly, I asked the guy next to me. He said in a very souther accent -- try one, they make good wine. Turns out they are a bit like a grape and a cherry in one. Not the greatest, but they do apparently make AND sell scuppernog wine...I've only seen it at Wal-Mart, though. I think I'll wait on that one. Speaking of Wally-World, when you get something to push your groceries in here...it's not cart, it's a buggy - just ask the locals!

I think I wrote about my neice, Ana, a couple posts ago. She gets to come home today - yeah! She has officially been diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease. She will most likely start a type of dialysis that uses the lining of the stomach instead of the kidneys to filter out the toxins in her body. Not the best diagnosis, but it could be way worse and God is still so good! Here is something my amazing sister-in-law (ana's mommy) wrote and the news letter from the church that my brother pastors with his insights. Ana and her brother Aiden are so blessed to have them as parents. Please continue to pray for them and for a miracle for Ana's little kidneys...

I wrote the above about an hour ago, and just had a thought to share:
Something D said in his newsletter a while ago struck me, and God has been letting it marinate in my brain since then. God is more interested in our character than our comfort. (paraphrase) It occurred to me just tonight that the places in scripture where God speaks about goodness or prosperity probably have nothing to do with our view of goodness and prosperity.
I have often taken comfort in verses like the following:

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

"...He who trusts in the Lord will prosper. Prov. 28:25

I have been thinking of these entirely backwards. God isn't speaking of my view of my "good" nor is he speaking of worldly prosperity. My view of "good" is that my daughter would be healed, and my view of prosperity is a comfortable living. I'm a good 'baptist' girl and I'm reluctant to admit that I have viewed this verse about prosperity in this way (we try to get as far from the 'name it claim it' thinking as possible,) but I think if we're honest, we have probably all done it in some way or another.

God's view of "Good" is that he would be glorified. If more glory would be shown in her illness than her healing, then i need to be just as fervently praying that he would be glorified in her illness. Dare I say... more so.

My prayer tonight was for God to show me HIS view of goodness and prosperity.
-And-
That he would help me deny myself and learn to be full of joy in what he calls good.

Maybe God is calling you to join me in this petition.

Thanks for indulging me in my ramblings. Not that you had much of a choice, I've already typed it, and curiosity probably propelled you to continue reading. All I have to say about that is HA HA HA :)

luv u all,
k

Kennewick Baptist Church September Newsletter --

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

Matthew 7:24

Jesus spoke these words after delivering His most famous discourse, the Sermon on the Mount. In that message He painted with a broad brush and covered everything from revenge to fasting, from marriage to humility. Plainly put, He talked about life and said that the wise man is he who not only hears God’s truth about life, but then puts it into practice when given the opportunity. Head-knowledge must be translated into the language of our hearts, which can then be used to renovate our lives.

Over the past few weeks God has given me ample opportunity to “put into practice” truths I thought I’d known before. It’s one thing to say I trust the Lord with my family, and another thing altogether to sit alone in an airplane as my daughter is airlifted to another hospital because they’re unsure if she’ll make it through the night. It been easy in the past to say I will rest in the Lord when things were going smoothly, but it’s a different story when that “rest” must be chosen in the midst of jumbled emotions, muddled thoughts, a cluttered heart, and an impersonal ICU room.

My point is not to highlight my situation (as many of you have faithfully traveled this same road . . . and paths much darker than mine), but instead to state the realization that even our deepest trials can become fertile ground for profound growth. I am increasingly convinced that God is much more concerned with our character than He is with our comfort . . . and that He allows trials to intersect our lives in order to bring us to points of decision: will we be faithful to live out what we say we believe?

The storms of life will blow and the waves will buffet our hearts. There is no escaping this fact. However, when the forecast looks bleak may we come to see that God is placing before us another opportunity to not only “hear” His words, but to live them!

So as you go through this month . . . with all its ups and downs . . . remember what God has said, remember what He has called you to do and who He has predestined you to be, and then be wise and live like it. May God bless you richly as you live for His glory . . . even on stormy days!

Blessings - Dustin

More firsts...

2008-08-20T04:27:00.000-07:00

Kylie just left with Jason for her first day of school. I think I am holding up okay...we'll see how the rest of the day goes. I think I was more apprehensive than she was. It's quite overwhelming!
Here are some fun pictures of getting ready for the big day:

Kindergarten fingers and toes:

Miss Kylie posing for the camera. I said "give me nice smile for everyone back home" and that was enough for her to let loose!
Feeling good!!!

Micah's first haircut and Kylie's wish list

2008-08-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

Mom, Jess - this is for you!
Micah had his first haircut this morning! Thanks Sherry!

After:

And - here is Kylie's first ever, hand written, birthday list. I love it!

Mom, Jess - this is for you!
Before --

settling in....almost

2008-08-14T11:09:00.000-07:00

Good grief - I feel like I have so much to say that I don't even know where to begin. So pardon the rambling, but here is what's been happening for the last couple weeks.

We have moved out of Tyler and Jenn's and are now staying with our friends in Charlotte. It just so happens, he is also our Realtor - not a bad combination!! We are sooooo very thankful to Ty and Jenn and Boaz for letting us crash at their house for a bit longer than expected - what a blessing!

It's been fun hanging out in Charlotte and getting a bit of a taste of the "big" city. Though it is not near as busy as Seattle, and way cleaner feeling. We took the kids to the Discovery Center in uptown (downtown)? Charlotte last week. There was a dinosaur bone exhibit. Caleb was very nearly overwhelmed - going back and forth from one thing to another and then running off to the next and next and next. So fun to watch! I'm pretty sure this will be a regular outing for us.

Kylie starts school next week. I always imagined that I would be SO ready for her to start - to let her socialize and for me to spend some more one on one with the other three kids. But, instead, I find myself a little panicked (weird, I know)! What if she gets lost, what if she doesn't make friends, what if she doesn't like her teacher --- ahhhh! But, I do know that God has it so under control and has set out everything perfectly...it'll be quite the adventure for all of us!

We close on our house on the 21st! It will be so amazing to be in our own space and get things set up and arrange and just "be." I don't think I'll be leaving the house for months! I'm not quite sure how I feel about the roaming lifestyle?!?!

Jason's job is going well. He has been working really long days in anticipation of a product launch (I think that's what it is called). It amazes me how he can juggle so many things - family, faith, friends, work - all with excellency. I truly am blessed to be married to him and walking out this journey by his side!

In other, not so great news, my niece, Ana, has been hospitalized for the week or so. It seems she had a sever case of rota virus that eventually caused her kidneys to fail. She has undergone one round of dialysis so far and the docs will continue to do gentle dialysis (spreading it out throughout the day) for the next few days. They are still optimistic that her kidneys will restart on their own, but it is still pretty intense. Please continue to pray for this little two year old and her parents and brother as they weather this storm. They are an amazing family with an amazing faith in a really HUGE God!

I think we have found a church home. We looked at some online and visited a couple and am pretty sure we are going to be attending Morning Star for a while. The size is difficult for me, but I really do feel like God has us there for a season and a reason. The worship is amazing and the word is solid. I am a bit apprehensive about the kids program, but feel that it will work out for the best. A funny thing about the church: the first Sunday worship was lead by Molly Skaggs - "hmmm," I thought - "I wonder it that is Ricky Skaggs daughter?" I realize most of you have no idea who Ricky Skaggs is. I, on the other hand, have very fond memories of listening to his tapes in the van with my dad and drawing and playing in my room with his tape blaring on my player. Turns out, he and his family attend Morning Starr and play on the Worship Team. Kinda funny! Where else can you hear Bob Jones prophecy and Ricky Skaggs play his fiddle on the same day?!?!?

Overall, life is good, God is faithful and we are blessed to overflowing!

Till Later --

D-

Notes from the South

2008-07-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

Hello! There's been a lot happening here - a lot to update!
We received word on the house today that there is only one small step left and it is ours! - Very exciting. We are anxious to be in our own home and settle in a bit more!

We have tried a couple churches - Morning Star and another much smaller church in Charlotte. We are praying and listening for where God wants us, though we do have a pretty good feel at this point...God has been good to bless us with some divine encounters with other believers who have loved and encouraged us!

I was talking to a friend the other day and had to tell her of some of the cultural things I am noticing here. Back in the Tri-Cities it was not at all uncommon to see Taco Trucks on the side of the road. Here, however, it is all about the BBQ. There are random signs in parking lots that say "Bobby BBQ - here on Tuesday" - And it is quite the ordeal - they are packed out! Just yesterday I saw one called, and I'm not kidding - Pig Palace - um...a little weird, yeah - but true.

In family news- Micah has started walking!!! We were having dinner with friends and he took the plunge. We had the camera on hand and caught his first steps - he is soooo proud of himself!!!

That's it for now! Thanks to all of you have called and listened and prayed and supported -- I love you tons!

Danni

Quick Update!

2008-07-22T04:44:00.000-07:00

Hello! Just a quick update...Yesterday the bank approved the offer we submitted on the house. Now it goes to the underwriter - our Realtor said this is usually a good sign - if it passes the banks approval, it's usually a done deal. The big question now is how fast the current resident can move out of the house...hopefully very quickly!! Thank you to all who have prayed and encouraged us (me) over the last week...you are all very dearly missed!

D-

Life in the (not so) fast lane

2008-07-17T06:06:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it. We are officially living in South Carolina. It's crazy how in the midst of the transition - getting the house ready to sell, finding a place to stay, cars to rent etc - it seemed like the "day" would never come. Then when we were boarding the airplane, it all seemed like it went so fast...to all of you helped paint, clean, fix, love and encourage - thank you beyond words.
Here a couple updates. First - our house in the Tri -Cities...God was SOOO in it! We listed it on Monday (last week) at about noon. By two someone had called to look at it and offered by 6pm. We countered, he countered and we accepted...amazing! Then yesterday while we were looking at a house (that I am in love with) the realtor called and said that the inspection passed and we were good to go. How good is our GOD!!!??? We still have not settled 100% on a house here, but have two really promising prospects...just waiting and listening. Hopefully my next post will have pictures of the new Thompson Landing!
The plane ride(s) went really well considering 4 young, tired, excited kids. Two notabe moments - on the descent into Minneapolis there was a TON of turbulence. I was not having fun---at all. The kids, on the other hand, had to be convinced they were not on a rollercoaster - kind of funny - to us anyway. Finally, we landed in Charlotte - we were tired and anxious and in the back of the plane. Everyone was standing, mostly patiently, and they finally turned of the seat belt and no-smoking signs. Dear Kylie said, quite loudly, "great, now we can smoke!" -- Oh - Kylie, Kylie, Kylie --- gotta love her!!!
So - Southern Living is definitely different. One of the "cart boy" at wal-mart the other day walked up and asked if he could load my groceries for me while I buckled the kids in...wow. Then at Starbucks (of which I have only seen two in the ENTIRE TOWN) I was waiting to go through the drive through - to no avail. Bubba in the truck in front of me was just sitting there. Hmmmm....then one of the employees walked out and informed me in a very charming southern drawl, that the drive through was closed for about 10 minutes while they poured concrete. He politely invited me to come in and order inside. I informed him that there was no way I was coming into a very small store with 4 kids. "Oh," he said "well just tell me what you want and I'll bring it out to you...in fact, why don't you park in the handicap spot so you can be closer." Wow - only in the south - I love it!!!
We are having a great time with Ty and Jenn - they are such saints to allow the 6 of us to join in their home life - What a blessing and encouragement they are....

We all miss everyone there sooo much - I feel like there is so much I want to say to everyone to the make the goodbye proper. But how do you say good bye to people who have encouraged and loved and corrected and upheld and poured into and blessed you. How do you tell people how proud you are of who they have become, how blessed you are to have been a part of their lives. I don't know if words can express the depth of out love for you...Thanks to all! I keep thinking of the verse "The Lord watch over you and me, while we are apart, one from another."

Until Later -- I have to go, and so do you (that one is for you, Rich) --

Danni

Conversations

2008-06-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

This just happened two minutes ago:

Me: Go outside and play before quiet times
Kylie: Okay, let's take a plane
Caleb and Macey: Yeah!
Kylie: Keep your hands and feet inside all the time. In case of emergency - SCREAM!!!!

I am still laughing!

A Season of Change

2008-06-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

Wow - this last week and a half has been a whirlwind. For those of you who have not heard - we are moving to South Carolina! Ahhhh...! It's been kind of a long process leading up to the decision, but once things got put into motion - they went REALLY fast! It's amazing how an entire way of life and thinking can be changed in such a short amount of time. Jason was offered an amazing in a great location - close to some very good friends of ours.
So, I guess now the process begins - trying to sell our house, figure out what we are taking with us, deciding what mode of transportation to take on the way down, finding schools, finding a house, church, etc. I feel like I should be totally overwhelmed, but overall I feel peaceful and excited. For those of you who know me, this is highly abnormal....maybe it's God!!!! Jason's start date is no later than the 21st of July - but we are looking at trying to be there the week before. Not a lot of time, but probalby doable.
I will try to post and keep everyone updated as things progress! To those of you who have spoken encouraging words and blessed this next portion of our journey - thank you, thank you, thank you!

Till Later -

D

A Crazy Little Thing Called...Motherhood

2008-06-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

There are times that, in my mind, I know I am ridiculously blessed, but I do not show it or really feel it. Many times I find myself feeling overwhelmed and frustrated and, honestly, sorry for myself. Even just writing that statement, I am ashamed that such an attitude could enter into my spirit. I have been trying and praying and trusting and winning and failing and trying again to have an eternally minded perspective concerning this place that I am in. This place of laundry and laughter, dishes and uncertainty, diapers and delight, triumphs and fears. Many times I am on "Mommy" Cloud 9 - others I wonder how we are going to survive the next 18 years (give or take a few). Should I go ahead and make appointments at Elijah House now for when they are adults? It is a crazy ride.

But, in the midst of this crazy ride, God has been so faithful to point out many blessings...little things that make it all worth while. Here are a few of the little "kisses" God has brought me from My kids recently, things that I love!

* I love that on my windowsill sits a vase with A LOT of dandelions in it...gifts from a very special little boy!

* I think it is amazing that my four and five year olds know how to play chess...and quite well!

* My climbing rose bush in the back yard is completely bare of petals...up to Kylie's height!

* I love that my girls come out and spin around for their daddy and say "Am I beautiful?"

* I love that Caleb is SOOOO happy that Micah and finally play cars with him.

* I love that I rarely am in need of entertainment...my four munchkins are hilarious!

* I walked in the other day and Kylie and Caleb were singing opera to each other...precious!

* I love that dreams and visions are a common discussion topic in the morning - my kids are such dreamers and seers.

* Kylie is quite the "air guitar" player!

* Caleb was totally dancing in church yesterday - the man has moves!

* I love that they are somewhat addicted to "Fire Tunnels!"

I know this list is short and very uncomprehensive, - I could probably (and might) write a book about the way God showers us with his love in the form of kids...they are an amazing gift, a blessing beyond compare. Even in the midst of personal struggles and triumphs, in the midst of overwhelming odds - He is on our side! If God is for us (for my family), really, who could ever stand against us?!?!?

Happy Birthday Micah Sam!

2008-06-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

Today is Micah's 1st Birthday. I really cannot believe how fast the year has gone. It seems with each kid that we have, the first couple years fly by more and more quickly! It has been a wild ride...wow! Jason and I were talking the other day about the kids and what a blessing they are - trying to imagine life w/out anyone of them is beyond imagination. They have enriched and challenged and blessed our lives so much.
It seems weird to think that just last week we celebrated our 8th anniversary and had to plan it around 4 kids...who would have thought! God is sooo good and seen fit to fill our quiver with amazing kids with amazing destinies and such incredible giftings - quite a humbling thought!

So - below is a little journey through Micah's first year! I think I got a picture from every month! Enjoy...

And a short little update on Micah's arm...We have seen the geneticist and had some subsequent testing done. So far there is nothing to suggest a disorder, besides the physical factors (no heart abnormalities or anything like that). We still have one more test to schedule, hopefully in the next month or so. If everything comes back good with that, then we are possibly looking at surgery in the October time frame. We are so thrilled that there is no obvious genetic disorder and are still praying and believing that God will heal the popping, and restore his arm to perfect functionality!

Seriously...could Micah be any cuter?

2008-04-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

These pictures of Micah are from the last couple days - just had to share them!

The other pictures are from last Sunday when we all climbed Badger Mountain -
what a blast! The kids were amazing -
it was so fun to see them explore and discover new things.
I loved being able to see the newness and the bigness through
their eyes - everything was new and fun - from beetles to
flowers to rocks...you name it, they loved it!
Kind of makes you take a step back and
appreciate the beauty around us so much more.

Brothers...

2008-04-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

God and Aliens

2008-03-11T15:55:00.000-07:00

So here was the conversation in the car earlier today:

Me: I think we might go outside a play a little today

Kylie: It's way too windy

Caleb: yeah

Kylie: Jesus prayed and the wind stopped, maybe we can do the same

Me: That would be a great idea

Kylie/Caleb: (indistinct praying) Amen.

Caleb: it's still really windy - maybe God is up too high to hear you

Me: No, God can hear and see you wherever you are and he can hear everyone at the same time - isn't that cool?

Caleb: How can he do that?

Kylie: Maybe he is like an alien and has a thousand eyes and a million ears...

2008-03-06T08:46:00.000-08:00

I feel like I am in a season of intense change and with that seems to come a generous helping of personal revelation. I could probably write quite a few very long blogs about all that God has been doing, showing, changing, revealing. But, in the interest of time and sanity, I think I will just write a short list (and maybe one, way-to-cute, story.)

First - the story! We were getting ready to head up to Seattle for Micah's orthopaedic appointment. We had just dropped the girls off and were heading to prosser to drop Caleb with some good friends. About 10 minutes into our drive, the potty buy struck. He had to go and go bad. We passed Benton City and he thought maybe he could wait. Then the dancing and facial contortions and wiggles started. So, we pulled off on the side of the road, where there happened to be a train passing. Jason and the Caleb hopped out and were standing facing the train and J was giving the little guy tips on going on the side of the road. Caleb was listening intently, watching the train and just standing. Then he looks at J and says "I think I want to go to Hunter's and Pari's about now." He didn't quite get that they detour was to HELP him, he thought Jason was just taking time out for some manly pointers! Cute. It got me thinking how many times we only see the final destination and are so caught up in where we are headed that we miss the learning, growing detours that God plans along the way!

Here are some other things that I've learned recently:

Lice are bad, but God is good!

6 People make for a TON of laundry!

God will only take things from you only when you offer them...

Patient Husbands are worth their weight in gold!!!

Change is not always bad...
Learning does not have to be painful

It's okay to admit you need help

Little babies make really big messes (especially with bananas)!

My Kids are truly a blessing, a gift, and a joy!!!

Grandpa and Kylie

2008-02-27T22:19:00.000-08:00

This was the conversation tonight on their way home from a "date"

Kylie: Oops! I tooted.
Grandpa: (smirks) Oh?!
Kylie: I wonder what toots look like?
Grandpa: Well, I don't think you can see toots - they're kind of like the wind.
Kylie: Well, I think they look brown because they kind of make your undies brown.

....'nuff said!

Tagged - 123 Meme

2008-02-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

My good friend Madison over at Write on the Edge tagged me. The kids are all (relatively) quiet so I thought I'd give it a go. Here's how it works:

1. Pick up the nearest book of 123 pages or more. No cheating!
2. Find page 123.
3. Find the first 5 sentences.
4. Post the next 3 sentences.
5. Tag 5 people.

So, with no cheating allowed - this is what I found. Mind you, this is Jason's book, not mine!

The New Complete Joy of Home Brewing by Charlie Papazian Make the kind of beer you like with htis easy-to-follow guide to everything from lagers to stouts, ales, bitters, pilsners...AND MORE.

How does one safely use household bleach? Not only is chlorine bleach an effective disinfectant but is also an effective cleaner. It is able to remove some of the moset stubborn and inaccessible stains and residues from the inside of your glass fermenters and bottles. Two fluid ounces of bleach in 5 gallons of cold water and an overnight soak will remove the most hardened fermentation from the inside of your glass fermenter. This strong solution should be thoroughly rinsed with warm or hot water.
For homebrewers, an effective sanitizing solution can be prepared by mixing 1/3 - 1 1/2 teaspoons of household bleach in 5 gallons of cold water.

So - there you go. Just in case you wondering...

I am tagging Nikki, Jill, Patty & Steve, Cindy, and Beth

A Glimpse of Destiny

2008-02-20T14:53:00.000-08:00

Kylie has been taking ballet for the last three months or so. She has loved it and is quite good. The first semester ended in January and as I was preparing to register her for the next semester I wondered if maybe she would like some other activity more. We discussed different things from Karate to Gymnastics and decided to try a month of gymnastics.

Right away there was something different about her as we walked into the first class. She seemed more excited and just...different. As the class started and she engaged in the activities I had a strange reaction. I was amazingly proud of her and, honestly (or embarrassingly) got kind of choked up and teary eyed. I know this may be over dramatic, but it was like this is what she was meant to be doing.

As I was explaining this reaction of mine to a friend I started wondering why I felt this way. Was this some sort of destiny moment for Kylie? Is she meant to be the next great gymnast? I don't quite think that is it. I think God was giving me a glimpse of what it is to walk in purpose, to step into a bit of destiny.

I loved seeing Kylie in ballet, loved watching her dance around and be all calm and controlled. But, for those of you who know Kylie even a little - calm is not a word that describes her. When she was flipping on the bars or somersaulting into the foam pit - it was beyond words! Is this a bit of how God feels? Does he enjoy seeing me do good things, things that I enjoy and find fulfillment in? Yes! But is He all the more elated and ecstatic when I realize and jump into what I was made for? Yes and even more Yes!

Happy Birthday Amy!

2008-02-04T08:45:00.001-08:00

22 Years ago today, one of my best friends was born! I remember being at one of my parents friend's house at waking up to go to the bathroom (I was 5) and she told me I had a little sister. How exciting!
I'll admit I wasn't the nicest sister growing up (sorry Amy!), but I cannot deny my love for this little brown eyed girl!
I have enjoyed watching her grow from a spunky little kid (aka "mad dog") to an elegant, beautiful, virtuous, amazing woman. I am blessed to call her my friend, privileged to have my kids call her Aunt, and honored to call her my friend!

So - Happy Birthday Amy!!!! I love you more than words can say!

2008-01-29T15:34:00.000-08:00

Question: What do you do with a stir crazy two year old who doesn't want to go outside on a snowy day?

Answer: You dye her hair pink!!!

Updates, Bumpo's and Investments

2008-01-28T18:49:00.000-08:00

I'm glad they don't ban you from blogging for lack of use...
It's been very busy, and while my mind has been going a million mile a minute, and I know there are topics I want to blog about, nothing has really come to fruition. But I think I might try tonight. But first - a few antics from the fam.

Some of you may have heard of the bumpo baby seat. It really is a cool thing to have around. We have one. But being a family on the "Extreme edge of normal" (more on that later), my amazing hubby and son have found a new use for it. Check out these pics:

Yes, they really ARE throwing it at each other. Not TO eachother, mind you, but at eachother. What can I say...gotta love boys!

Now, from the girls...tonight while praying for dinner.

Kylie: Dear God, thank you for everything. Thank you for making us and we love you very much, and we hope that you like us too. Amen.

Macey: (this is the first time she has said anything besides thanks for the food) Dear God, thank you for the spaghetti and for making me pretty and so beautiful and so smart and for beauty. Amen.

Man, I love those kids!

And since Micah doesn't really say anything besides "Ga," here is a cute pic of him and his rice bowl:

Just a quick update on Micah's arm "condition," for lack of a better word. His right arm is still popping with a bit of regularity and we have noticed some increased popping in his other arm. One of the possibilities the Dr. mentioned last time is that all of his symptoms may just mean he is on the "Extreme edge of normal." Sounds good to me - I'll take it!

Anyway, we were supposed to go to Seattle today and have an appointment with the Orthopedics and Genetics departments tomorrow. But, due to a snow storm that left our street looking like this:

we have had to reschedule. We were blessed to be able to schedule the Genetics appointment at an office in Yakima. Children's Hospital does a clinic there a couple times a month, and was able to squeeze us in. We have our first consult and testing on the 6th of February and then a follow up on the 20th of March. We will head up to Seattle, God willing, on the 29th of February for the Orthopedic appointment. So, we wait a little longer and trust a little more. Thank you for your prayers!

God has been so faithful to teach me so many things through parenting these amazing little ones. Something that has come up lately has to do with investments. Not the financial kind, but the eternal kind.

Caleb is starting to REALLY come out of his shell. In the process of discovering who he is, he has begun to ask people for attention, to seek after what he wants instead of waiting for it to come to him. I don't think there is anything wrong with that, per say, but it is so neat to see him develop in this way. Recently he went up to an amazing young woman at church at said "will you take me out on a date?" Wow - who can resist. Of course she said "yes" and has since taken Kylie and soon Macey out too.

On the surface, this is amazing enough - an 18 year old college student taking time out of her VERY busy schedule to hang out with a 4, 5 and 2 year old. But God has had me look deeper. My kids are young. They are learning who they are and who they are called to be. It is a blessing to be surrounded with youth and young adults that I am happy to have influence my kids. As I was thinking about this and what a huge blessing it is I began to wonder if this is a little of how God looks at our relationships.

Do I go out of my way to hang out with those younger and more vulnerable in their spiritual journey. Do I actively sacrifice and invest of my time and energies into someone else? I believe this is something God desires and delights in. How precious to see people investing in your kids!

So thanks Jess...you are amazing!!!

treehouses, tattoos and pancakes

2007-12-25T12:15:00.000-08:00

The Whole Fam - before the wrapping paper carnage...

My Christmas Present from my mom

Santa and Rudolph Pancakes

Jason's Christmas Present to the Kids - a treehouse - without a tree

Merry Christmas~ The Thompsons

2007-11-17T19:18:00.001-08:00

Monday is Jason's Birthday - the BIG 30!!!!

I remember 8 years ago (when we were dating) that 30 seemed sooooo far away - and yet here it is! I cannot imagine being married to a better 30 year old than him. He is far and away more than I expected and hoped for in a husband/father/friend. The way he shows his love to me and the kids on a daily basis blows me away!
Here is a little video we made for him....We love you!

Baby Josiah

2007-10-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I posted about a baby whose blog I ran across shortly after he was born. Baby Josiah was born prematurely and with quite a few health problems. I have followed his story, as narrated by his daddy, and cried and rejoiced as he has encountered and overcome quite a few obstacles. I checked for an update this morning and saw that things are really not good. You can click on "Drew's View" on my side bar and read his update.

Though I have never met him or his parents, I feel compelled to ask for all you who read this to pray for a miracle on his behalf....and for Andrew and Marie that God will give them faith, wisdom, and strength for the road ahead - whatever it may bring.

Conversations

2007-10-22T17:37:00.000-07:00

Caleb: I have a stuffy nose
Kylie: Oh
Caleb: Why do we have noses?
Kylie: So we can smell.
Caleb: Why do we have tummies?
Kylie: So we can eat
Caleb: Why do we have legs?
Kylie: So we can walk
Caleb: Why do we have hearts?
Kylie: ...so we can listen to God.

Later...

K: I'm sorry your nose is stuffy.
C: It's okay
K: You can pray and ask God to heal it tonight
C: I don't know about that. I'm kind of shy to Him.
K: That's okay - I'll ask Him for you...

And just for fun - we got a new camera this week! Does anybody see "baby Kate?"

Update on Micah

2007-10-19T17:18:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, Danni, Micah and I traveled to Seattle. We were able to stay with Danni's relatives that own a town house in Seattle not far from Seattle Children's Hospital.
It turns out that Micah's ulna is formed correctly. It did not appear complete on the x-ray because portions of his ulna are still cartilage.
The Dr also said there is a "very high probability" that Micah's right elbow will correct itself just as his left elbow has. The Dr. attributed the popping to "loose ligaments" . Given this symptom, the feel of Micah's skin and some family history the Dr would like us to see a geneticist to see if Micah has a general problem with his connective tissue (which can manifest as heart and other organ trouble later in life).
In order to make sure Micah's elbow is forming correctly and to see the geneticist, we will be heading to Seattle in late January. We pray that the all goes well and that the passes are clear.

Thank you to all who prayed for the little guy.

This evening Micah enjoyed his first concert and checked out Lincoln Brewster's moves on the guitar while wearing his Harley hat. He was also fond of the cool colors the lights the video screens made. He expressed his appreciation by drooling, kicking and talking while chewing on his hands.

- Jason

Micah News

2007-10-13T10:47:00.000-07:00

I realize that most of you who read my blog attend The Bridge and have already received an email requesting prayer for Micah. But, for those of you who don't, I wanted to give you a run down (from my very non-medical understanding) and ask for your prayer as well.

When Micah was born, I noticed right away that his arms would pop when I would dress him or hold on to his hands. His left arm and both shoulders have since stopped popping, but when I took him into his 4 month appointment I asked the doctor about his right arm. He felt around and moved the arm a bit and suggested we get an x-ray. After the Dr. reviewed the x-ray, he recommended we see a specialist. It seems that Micah's ulna (the smaller bone in the arm) is not formed properly. The tip of it, where it is supposed to join in with the elbow, is shortened and shaped like a pin tip instead of the mushroom so that it is not properly in the elbow joint. Our Dr. said he has never seen something like this and neither have his colleagues. So, on Tuesday, Jason and I are heading to Seattle for a Wednesday appointment at Seattle Children's Hospital with an Pediatric Orthopedic Specialist.

We are praying that God would work a miracle in Micah - that his bone would grow and be formed perfectly to fit in the joint. I know that God can do this, and that this situation with Micah, however it works out, is not for naught - that He will work this for His glory!

Thank you for your prayers! We will keep you updated!

Birthdays!

2007-10-04T08:34:00.000-07:00

It's been a couple of weeks. Kylie turned 5 on the 22nd and Caleb turned 4 on the 1st. Ideally I would write about the wonderful things my kids have done and how crazy in love I am with each of them - how they steal my heart a little more everyday and teach me more about who God is with all the little miracles I experience through them. But, it is 8:36 and I have quite a day ahead of me, so I think I will post a few pictures and let you see for yourself how amazing they are!!!!

Caleb at the pumpkin patch on his birthday two years ago.

Caleb at the pumpkin patch on Monday.
Big Micah Smiles!
Princess Kylie with her princess PJ's and purse from Disney Land.
Macey on Daddy's shoulders...life is good!
navigating the hay maze...

Pumpkin Patch family picture from two years ago (that's Macey all bundled in my coat).
Same Place....one more kid!
Group Shots....
the counsins - Kylie, Caleb, Macey, Micah, Aiden, and Ana
on top of the hay pyramid (notice mom is not up there...I don't care much for the high places + little people combo)