So, I stayed home...and stayed home...and stayed home...and didn't get pregnant. I started thinking that maybe I hadn't heard God right! LOL But, our infertility struggles were a crash course in faith, patience, and waiting on the Lord's timing and taught me more about God in those 25 cycles than I could have learned any other way. God's fingerprints were all over it. But that's another story.
Then, on that 26th cycle...a miracle. And, Flicka joined our family the following year. Then, after being told there would be no way for us to conceive without intervention and while I was still nursing Flicka...another miracle. Then, Pojke joined our family the next year.
So, I've been home since May 2001. Things have been difficult at times - particularly financially. But, I've carried on, cut corners, and cut coupons because I knew that I knew that I knew that the Lord was happy with this situation. Needs were always met. His fingerprints were all over it.
But, then things got *really* tight after Pojke was born. We were down to one vehicle. We had moved into a bigger home since we had been living in a one-bedroom "bachelor bungalow" where Flicka's nursery was 6ft by 10 ft as the former enclosed back porch which DaHubby gutted, studded, wired, and drywalled for his baby girl. We worried about the kids' safety stuffed in the back of that small car...especially when Pojke outgrew his "infant" car seat at about 4 months! So, a mini-van followed. Eventually, the bank started calling about "problems" with our account...
So, we prayed for God's will to be revealed in the situation. Should DaHubby take a second job? Should I go back to work? Where can we cut MORE corners? We turned off the cable. We stopped eating out...at all...no eating with the rest of DaHubby's family after church each Sunday...no snacks when traveling...or any occasional trips to McDonald's. We grew a garden. We started doing Angel Food. I started learning how to sew and do canning. We considered home businesses - either for me or for DaHubby. And, we kept praying..."God, please provide for us and this situation. It's within Your power to guide us to becoming debt-free. Show us the way." And, while I said nothing to DaHubby, I *really* did not want to go back to work unless I absolutely had to. We were searching for God's fingerprints again...
To be continued...
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
God's Fingerprints - part one
(I was going to try and get this all down in one post but with Sara's good example with telling of her youngest's birth story (*wink*) I'll do it in parts today as I get the chance. Thanks for your patience!)
I can see the fingerprints of god
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of god
And I know it’s true
You’re a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you’re covered with the fingerprints of god
In this case, it was a "what" instead of a "who".
Despite the best intentions of my parents (who were probably initially mortified at the thought of what their eldest, independent daughter was considering), I decided to walk away for an undetermined amount of time from a budding and promising career in teaching once DaHubby and I met. From the day we met until 345 days later when we wed, God did an amazing work in both of us. I have never felt such a move of God in my life until that point. It was clear to me that DaHubby was an answer to prayer. God's fingerprints were all over it.
Before our meeting, DaHubby had been "off the wagon" in terms of church attendance. I was attending church regularly but didn't feel the "fit" or the "fire" where I was worshipping that I so longed for. We were perfect complements to each other - DaHubby gave the fire of his Pentecostal background to me and I gave him back his regular attendance! LOL
We were married 2 weeks before the end of a school year. After much conversation, prayer, and consideration, we decided that I would finish that year of teaching and then I would not work in the fall, I would stay at home, and I would start having babies! Despite the idea going against everything I had been taught and experienced, I really felt deeply that this is what God wanted me to do. His fingerprints were all over it!
to be continued...
Monday, July 16, 2007
A "Read Together" Review
Jennifer at Snapshot started a summer read-together-with-your kids program about 2 weeks ago. She is focusing on ages 6 and up but Flicka and I joined in anyway! LOL Jennifer also asked that we post reviews of the books we read so here's our first!
Flicka and I read through The Treasure Tree by Gary Smalley and John Trent. This was our first "chapter" book! And, we read it for this challenge as well as part of our local library's summer reading program which includes ages 18 months up to soon-to-be 8th graders. Many thanks to our wonderful library for carrying this book - since it would appear that we will be getting our own copy ASAP! LOL
We read a chapter at night before bed. This book is supposed to be for ages 4 to 8. This might explain why Flicka (at 3 yrs old) initially had a tough time with the transition from the one-whole-story-in-one-sitting thing to a one-chapter-then-we'll-see-what-happens-tomorrow-night structure.
The book has a basic premise: four best firend are sent on a "quest". If I remember correctly (the book's already been returned to the library), there are 6 chapters: the introduction of the plot and four main characters (a lion, beaver, golder retriever, and otter), then a chapter focused on each character and the challenge they face, and then the conclusion.
I cannot say enough about this book in terms of the spirit in which it was written. A parent could do SO much with it! But, the best things it focuses on are the lessons about working together to achieve a goal and understanding the unique personalities and/or gifts God has given us.
Many of the reviews I read said that their older children immediately recognized themselves in one of the characters. Apparently, this book's character types are drawn closely to the Myers-Briggs personality test. And, while I never realized the name for this test, I remember working on Lutheran school staff where we took a "quiz" and found out what type of animal we were.
And, I found resources online that suggest that the four animal characters also can relate to four Bible believers and their different styles: lion (Paul), otter (Peter), golden retriever (Moses), and beaver (Timothy)...another teaching opportunity in this book!
Anyway, Flicka never seemed to grab the whole bigger concept but definitely liked the story. She talked about it each day and asked for each new chapter every night. Definitely a plus! LOL
And, I found out afterwards that there is a sequel that we'd like to pick up as well.
All in all, I would definitely recommend this book...even if you start it a little early as we did. I'm hoping Flicka will "grow" into it and that Pojke will appreciate it as well! I don't know what we'll readnext - yet! But, we're due for a library run on Wednesday and I'm hoping to find something then.
If you are interested in what other folks have read, check this post for reviews. And, if you are interested in jumping on board, here is Jennifer starting post!
Flicka and I read through The Treasure Tree by Gary Smalley and John Trent. This was our first "chapter" book! And, we read it for this challenge as well as part of our local library's summer reading program which includes ages 18 months up to soon-to-be 8th graders. Many thanks to our wonderful library for carrying this book - since it would appear that we will be getting our own copy ASAP! LOL
We read a chapter at night before bed. This book is supposed to be for ages 4 to 8. This might explain why Flicka (at 3 yrs old) initially had a tough time with the transition from the one-whole-story-in-one-sitting thing to a one-chapter-then-we'll-see-what-happens-tomorrow-night structure.
The book has a basic premise: four best firend are sent on a "quest". If I remember correctly (the book's already been returned to the library), there are 6 chapters: the introduction of the plot and four main characters (a lion, beaver, golder retriever, and otter), then a chapter focused on each character and the challenge they face, and then the conclusion.
I cannot say enough about this book in terms of the spirit in which it was written. A parent could do SO much with it! But, the best things it focuses on are the lessons about working together to achieve a goal and understanding the unique personalities and/or gifts God has given us.
Many of the reviews I read said that their older children immediately recognized themselves in one of the characters. Apparently, this book's character types are drawn closely to the Myers-Briggs personality test. And, while I never realized the name for this test, I remember working on Lutheran school staff where we took a "quiz" and found out what type of animal we were.
And, I found resources online that suggest that the four animal characters also can relate to four Bible believers and their different styles: lion (Paul), otter (Peter), golden retriever (Moses), and beaver (Timothy)...another teaching opportunity in this book!
Anyway, Flicka never seemed to grab the whole bigger concept but definitely liked the story. She talked about it each day and asked for each new chapter every night. Definitely a plus! LOL
And, I found out afterwards that there is a sequel that we'd like to pick up as well.
All in all, I would definitely recommend this book...even if you start it a little early as we did. I'm hoping Flicka will "grow" into it and that Pojke will appreciate it as well! I don't know what we'll readnext - yet! But, we're due for a library run on Wednesday and I'm hoping to find something then.
If you are interested in what other folks have read, check this post for reviews. And, if you are interested in jumping on board, here is Jennifer starting post!
Happy Mandag! - updated
Just popping in for a sec...small prayer request. I have a meeting in an hour that will resolve a pending, been-kinda-holding-up-our-life question. Pray for my peace, calmness , and non-nervousness (LOL) as well as for, ultimately and obviously, God's will! *wink*
Update: Well, I'm home. I guess it was premature to say things would "resolve" today. But, I've been told that I should know by the end of the week. Thank you for your prayers. Finally got hold of His peace as I arrived at the office. God had opened mulitple doors and windows so far for this set of circumstances to proceed so I figured that if this is His will, this should be no problem!LOL
The Vikings ran DaGrandma and DaPapa ragged while I was gone and a promise of a Dairy Queen last night was remembered by Flicka (LOL) so we're off to get something to eat. When I get the Vikings down for a nap, I'll be back with a full explanation...I hope! *wink*
Update: Well, I'm home. I guess it was premature to say things would "resolve" today. But, I've been told that I should know by the end of the week. Thank you for your prayers. Finally got hold of His peace as I arrived at the office. God had opened mulitple doors and windows so far for this set of circumstances to proceed so I figured that if this is His will, this should be no problem!LOL
The Vikings ran DaGrandma and DaPapa ragged while I was gone and a promise of a Dairy Queen last night was remembered by Flicka (LOL) so we're off to get something to eat. When I get the Vikings down for a nap, I'll be back with a full explanation...I hope! *wink*
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Indication I can never leave home again...(LOL)
...because I had nearly EIGHTY posts to check on Bloglines after only being away 52 hours! *wink* Y'all just WRITE TOO MUCH! LOL
Seriously, we got home safe and sound last night around 6pm. Fun had by all. The kids were angels (until the ride home) despite unfamiliar environments and off-kilter schedules. Pics and stories to come.
DaHubby had intermittent cell service while he was canoeing 50+ miles so we knew he was doing fine as well. Unfortunately, the canoers woke up to a driving rain Saturday morning and, after a cold breakfast, they were paddling before 7am. Due to their early start, they pushed and pushed and ended up paddling 13 hours - a two day paddle! They arrived back at their origin point around 11pm and promptly drove home! LOL DaHubby crawled into bed around 3:15am.
So, with two bleary-eyed parents (Flicka woke me up twice before DaHubby got home and then Pojke was up at 6:30am), we are all about to walk out the door for church where no one is expecting to see us! LOL The kids got good sleep (kinda) so hopefully things will go smoothly.
Will catch everyone up later...blessings on everyone's day of rejoicing, praising, and worshipping in God's house wherever you are!
Seriously, we got home safe and sound last night around 6pm. Fun had by all. The kids were angels (until the ride home) despite unfamiliar environments and off-kilter schedules. Pics and stories to come.
DaHubby had intermittent cell service while he was canoeing 50+ miles so we knew he was doing fine as well. Unfortunately, the canoers woke up to a driving rain Saturday morning and, after a cold breakfast, they were paddling before 7am. Due to their early start, they pushed and pushed and ended up paddling 13 hours - a two day paddle! They arrived back at their origin point around 11pm and promptly drove home! LOL DaHubby crawled into bed around 3:15am.
So, with two bleary-eyed parents (Flicka woke me up twice before DaHubby got home and then Pojke was up at 6:30am), we are all about to walk out the door for church where no one is expecting to see us! LOL The kids got good sleep (kinda) so hopefully things will go smoothly.
Will catch everyone up later...blessings on everyone's day of rejoicing, praising, and worshipping in God's house wherever you are!
Thursday, July 12, 2007
One additional thing...
LOL I'm thankful for the fact that when DaHubby leaves for his guys-only-weekend canoe trip after work today the Vikings and I will be already 2 hours into the 3-hour trip to my parents' side of the state for a few days!
Granny P and Papa D (my mom and step-dad) will host us tonight and Friday night with a possible trip to the Detroit Zoo in between. Then, we'll leave Saturday morning and pop in at Papa B's (my dad's) house on the way back home.
The best part - I'll be driving during what is SUPPOSED to be nap time...BOTH ways... so HOPEFULLY the trip will be peaceful and quiet and only the sound of "zzzz...." coming from the back seat! LOL
Just in case, pray for traveling mercies! *wink* And, we'll be back Saturday night.
Granny P and Papa D (my mom and step-dad) will host us tonight and Friday night with a possible trip to the Detroit Zoo in between. Then, we'll leave Saturday morning and pop in at Papa B's (my dad's) house on the way back home.
The best part - I'll be driving during what is SUPPOSED to be nap time...BOTH ways... so HOPEFULLY the trip will be peaceful and quiet and only the sound of "zzzz...." coming from the back seat! LOL
Just in case, pray for traveling mercies! *wink* And, we'll be back Saturday night.
Thursday Thanks Tank
Inspired (as always) by Peach and the wonderful ladies at Thankful Thursday! It's been 20 weeks since I started participating and I just counted up that this is my 13th TTT post. Not exactly what I was hoping for but simply being conscious of my blessings has made a H-U-G-E difference! So, for this week...in no particular order:
1. The prayer request I made here is moving forward. I should have a resolution by next week. How this all transpired is an absolute move of God and deserves its own post but suffice it to say I'm thankful for this opportunity which I'll share with y'all soon! *wink*
2. I continue to be humbled and wonderfully blessed by the lengths some of my fellow bloggers will go. Anita checks on me often and has become a regular, constant source of wonderful God-fearin', woman-buildin', faith-growin' advice. Peach commented on this post yesterday that I've been on her mind and she has something coming up that I might be interested in. Beth spent a crazy amount of time this week despite authoring two blogs, building a fence, and digging out after a lengthy vacation helping me start to unravel the mess that's become my email situation.
You three along with my other Faithprints alumnae as well as others: know that you bless me and bring me hope, inspiration, motivation, and a little spring in my step knowing that there are folks out there lookin' after and praying for me.
3. While our porch escapades recently has resulted in DaHubby and I spending less time together, I am SO thankful that it has been completed enough that it's encouraged a new nightly habit of just the two of us sitting out there after the Vikings are in bed in our new-but-we-got-it-on-clearance-at 30-percent-off patio furniture to talk and wind down from the day.
4. That my debut as newsletter editor for our local MOMS Club chapter went over really well! Everyone seems thrilled with its new format and layout!
5. Another item that deserves its own post because it was just covered in God's fingerprints...I'm thankful for a positive outcome on a crucial banking problem that popped up last weekend!
6. Thankful that Pojke seems to be back running at 110% and that Flicka seems to have "missed" the strep throat Pojke and I have been fighting.
7. Not trying to give her a big head and all but Anita...again! LOL I finally got around to using the Amazon gift certificate she awarded me in her recent giveaway. How simple but how fun to wait for a new book to come in the mail! *wink*
8. And, last but definitely not least, the two most important men in my life: Jesus and DaHubby! *wink* In your own ways, you both carry me through each moment, each day, each week. Thank you, Lord, for all the precious and irreplaceable things You have done for me and thank you for this man who shows me Your love on this earth!
Go see what Peach is thankful for today (and try not to be jealous by her AMAZING recent experiences LOL) and don't forget to go say hi to Iris and the ladies at Thankful Thursday!
1. The prayer request I made here is moving forward. I should have a resolution by next week. How this all transpired is an absolute move of God and deserves its own post but suffice it to say I'm thankful for this opportunity which I'll share with y'all soon! *wink*
2. I continue to be humbled and wonderfully blessed by the lengths some of my fellow bloggers will go. Anita checks on me often and has become a regular, constant source of wonderful God-fearin', woman-buildin', faith-growin' advice. Peach commented on this post yesterday that I've been on her mind and she has something coming up that I might be interested in. Beth spent a crazy amount of time this week despite authoring two blogs, building a fence, and digging out after a lengthy vacation helping me start to unravel the mess that's become my email situation.
You three along with my other Faithprints alumnae as well as others: know that you bless me and bring me hope, inspiration, motivation, and a little spring in my step knowing that there are folks out there lookin' after and praying for me.
3. While our porch escapades recently has resulted in DaHubby and I spending less time together, I am SO thankful that it has been completed enough that it's encouraged a new nightly habit of just the two of us sitting out there after the Vikings are in bed in our new-but-we-got-it-on-clearance-at 30-percent-off patio furniture to talk and wind down from the day.
4. That my debut as newsletter editor for our local MOMS Club chapter went over really well! Everyone seems thrilled with its new format and layout!
5. Another item that deserves its own post because it was just covered in God's fingerprints...I'm thankful for a positive outcome on a crucial banking problem that popped up last weekend!
6. Thankful that Pojke seems to be back running at 110% and that Flicka seems to have "missed" the strep throat Pojke and I have been fighting.
7. Not trying to give her a big head and all but Anita...again! LOL I finally got around to using the Amazon gift certificate she awarded me in her recent giveaway. How simple but how fun to wait for a new book to come in the mail! *wink*
8. And, last but definitely not least, the two most important men in my life: Jesus and DaHubby! *wink* In your own ways, you both carry me through each moment, each day, each week. Thank you, Lord, for all the precious and irreplaceable things You have done for me and thank you for this man who shows me Your love on this earth!
Go see what Peach is thankful for today (and try not to be jealous by her AMAZING recent experiences LOL) and don't forget to go say hi to Iris and the ladies at Thankful Thursday!
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