tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16903246539325802452024-02-20T08:33:36.794-08:00Becoming Less Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.comBlogger182125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-13457883032243391992016-05-22T18:22:00.001-07:002016-05-22T18:22:30.636-07:00Vaca with a Bab-ay!Zach and I promised each other that no matter what this year we were going to take a family vacation. We haven't been on a real vacation that didn't include visiting family since we have been married- which will be FOUR years next month! *gasp* That paired with being a stay at home mom, Zach's full time job, seminary and new ministries we were LONG overdue. We ended up getting a killer deal at a resort in Myrtle Beach, SC and we packed up and headed there for a glorious week. Such a blast! People have been asking us what we did while we were there to which we replied "Uhhh, pretty much just lay on the beach or in the pool." No regrets. And, we got to see my sissy and her family and some long time friends too so win, win, win.<br />
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I decided to write down my thoughts/tips on family vacations with a little one as it is new territory for me and may come in handy for other young moms out there! Emmalynn just turned the big 1 and she is very mobile right now which presented some interesting challenges. Hope this blog can be helpful to you if you are in a similar boat! If you think it is too hard to vacation with a baby I hope this encourages you to try- the memories and family time are worth it.<br />
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TRIP<br />
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We were traveling a long way- 17 hours- by car. We decided to travel by car to save some money and to allow us to have transportation during our week long stay in SC. Also, a car allowed us freedom to get a little comfy during our travel, sleep and stop when needed. We got to see some neat things along the way as well as make stops to get out and play in new cities.<br />
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Because we had such a long trip Zach and I chose to split the drive into two days. The first leg we started in the middle of the night while Emmy was asleep. We got a few hours of shut eye before we took off and by the time she woke up we had already accomplished around 8 hours of our trip. This allowed us to stop for breakfast once she was awake, play and get her changed before finishing out the remainder of leg one. We stopped in Knoxville, TN for the day around 1pm and had all day and night to rest and play at our hotel and a local park before finishing our drive the next morning! We purposely planned leg two to be the shorter of the two days so that it would feel more like a vacation day than just a travel day.<br />
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For entertainment during the drive we brought some kid DVDs to play on our laptop which helped to keep her attention and keep her happy. We also tried to pack a few newer toys or toys that she hadn't played with for a while as well. Also SNACKS are a life saver!<br />
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PIT STOPS<br />
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These are inevitable especially with kids. Something that I failed to do and will plan to do on our next trip is plan out where we plan to stop for lunch or dinner in advance. For little ones the park or a play place at a mall would be great. They need to get our their energy and this is a great way to do that. We ended up scrambling to find places to stop and I wished I had done some more planning. If you choose to stop at a park plan to pack a small cooler and a blanket for picnics and keep them easily accessible in the car. This was a huge money and time saver for us! This way we didn't also have to waste time looking for food options as it was already packed up in the car.<br />
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SCHEDULE<br />
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As you plan your travel and think about your actual time on vacation is is SO important for kids to try and stick to their regular schedule. We did our best to plan meals and stops around the times that Emmalynn is used to eating and napping. If you choose to stop at a park to play I would recommend setting your kids up for nap time as soon as you load back into the car if they still take afternoon naps. For Emmalynn this meant making sure she was dry, fed and didn't have any distractions around her so she could get a solid nap in. She is at the stage where she wants to constantly move so being strapped in her car seat is not ideal for her. Making the most of nap times was imperative to having a smooth drive time.<br />
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HOTEL<br />
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We booked an AWESOME deal at a beach resort through Groupon. I highly recommend this site and my family uses it often for various things. We booked our vacation during the "off season" and ended up getting a suite with a kitchen, living room and beach view balcony for under 1/3 of the original cost. Not only did we save on cost but we also had an awesome week with hardly any crowds of people at the pools and beach. Totally worth it! If you can try to plan your vacation during the off season that would be my recommendation.<br />
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In the future our family will aim to book a room that has access to a kitchen and living room space if possible. The kitchen was a HUGE money saver and made things a lot easier with our little one. By having an extra "hang out" space in the hotel room we were able to put Emmy down for her naps and bed time and still had the freedom to be active and not disturb her. Again- try your hardest to keep them on a schedule. Doing this made a ton of difference for us and we had little to no issues coming back home and adjusting to a post vacation schedule. Some days it was tempting to blow off her schedule to stay in the water longer but in the long run she was happier and we all had more fun when we stuck to a schedule. Worth it!<br />
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Also- check with your hotel about early check in times. Our hotel allowed us to check in a couple hours early and we got to head down to the beach once we checked in making a travel day feel like a partial vacation day!<br />
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STUFF TO DO<br />
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Staying at a resort may not be something we are able to do always especially if we don't get such a killer deal. However, it was awesome being at one. In addition to being an elevator ride down to the ocean they also had multiple pools, a kiddie water park, free putt putt golf, a coffee shop and a couple of restaurants that would be an awesome choice for dinner if you didn't want to get back out.<br />
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We decided to check out other things to do in Myrtle Beach that were baby friendly. I ended up stumbling across another Groupon deal (I seriously love them) for a Children's Museum just minutes from our hotel. The babies LOVED it and it provided a couple of sand free hours of entertainment for us. Try to explore the area around you and look for deals and events through city websites!<br />
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Sorry this was long- I am sure there are tons of other tips but this was some of our experience. We had such an amazing time and I can't wait to travel even more in the future.<br />
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-91324597501405498652015-11-16T16:32:00.001-08:002015-11-16T16:32:49.435-08:00Lately Sitting in a Starbucks tonight enjoying some much needed alone me time. Even though I am home full time now "me" time doesn't come often. I am blessed to have a husband who recognizes my need for alone time and pushes me out the door to get some. As I sit here tonight my heart and mind are just FULL. My thoughts seem jumbled. There has been so much going on lately and it makes it so hard to focus at times. Some things consuming my thoughts tonight are:<br />
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<i>How do I become a better mom? How do we raise Emmy and point her to the Cross each day- even though she is still so small?</i><br />
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<i>Thankful for the awesome family pictures we were able to take this weekend!</i><br />
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<i>Preparing in my mind a million to-do lists before our Thanksgiving trip to Vegas NEXT week</i><br />
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<i>Feeling joyful that I will get to spend a whole week with my family and get to finally meet my niece. </i><br />
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<i>Thinking on the recent acts of terror worldwide and what our role as Christians is when it comes to refugees. Particularly the Bible telling us to care for the least of these and not saying that the least of these are always the most safe people.</i><br />
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<i>Amazed that next month is Christmas. My baby girl's first Christmas. And she will be 8 months old. Cue weeping. </i><br />
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<i>Asking continually God to show my family the next right step. Job. Place to live. Ministry. Life change. The next right thing in a list that seems a mile long. There seem to be so many options. Choosing the option that is most pleasing to the Lord can seem hard at times. </i><br />
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<i>Pondering my strengths and goals and desires and how they need to be used more effectively for the Kingdom, my family and myself. </i><br />
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<i>Picturing my baby sleeping in her crib for a week today and how I took her pack and play out of our room this afternoon. How empty the room feels. But also how exciting it is that shes growing! Parenthood is full of so much emotion! Basically every other day is another new moment and emotion and experience. </i><br />
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<i>Looking forward to 2016 and all that it may bring. Many question marks. Many exciting things to come. </i><br />
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Man.... being a woman sometimes is tough with this spaghetti brain. So many thoughts all the time. Thankful for them.<br />
<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-42552987132442817272015-10-01T14:30:00.002-07:002015-10-01T14:30:40.176-07:00October Goals A fresh new month means some fresh new goals! I am gonna keep this list short because 1) being a mom means you never know what could happen 2) it has been quite a while, sadly, that I have set monthly goals so starting small feels a little less overwhelming.<br />
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<li>Walk 100 miles- we have been working on our health and love taking walks! And I have been particularly obsessed with the pedometer on my phone. Looking forward to taking advantage of the awesome fall weather that finally arrived today by getting moving outside! </li>
<li>Transition Emmalynn to her crib for naps. This will be great preparation for our trip to Vegas next month for Thanksgiving! And, she is outgrowing her swing and the move needs to happen for both mommy and Emmy. Pray for us. </li>
<li>Drink at least 64 ounces of water per day and no soda! The soda part should hopefully be easy as it is more of a treat now than anything. But, water consumption is hard for me for some reason. Usually I look up and its mid-afternoon and I haven't had anything to drink. Terrible!</li>
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3 goals, easy peasy right? We will see! </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-88172682262898492292015-10-01T14:06:00.000-07:002015-10-01T14:06:13.203-07:00Mommyhood <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Look at this beautiful girl that I get to call my daughter! I am so beyond blessed to be her mommy and to stay home with her every day. As I am typing this I am watching my FIVE MONTH old play in her big girl bouncy seat. I can not believe how fast time goes! Everyone tells you that it will fly by, but experiencing that is a whole other story. Everyday she changes, grows and seems to learn something new. It is all so exciting and at the same time heart breaking in a way. As much as I long for her to grow I also long for time to stand still. The other night I almost had a break down thinking that one day soon we will see her LAST toothless grin. Trying my best to cherish and savor every moment, every smile, every cuddle and even every late night cry (and also praying that those late night cries are going to end soon!) </div>
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After 5 months of staying home I feel like I have almost finally hit a groove and this whole thing isn't as overwhelming as it once was. I remember after she was first born worrying how I would get her in and out of the car to run an errand. You learn quick when you are a mom! I've also discovered just how much grace you need to give yourself each day. Grace to make mistakes and grace that says you are still learning. And when you allow yourself grace you can more easily give grace. Grace to your spouse and your child each day. Because, sometimes this parenting thing is HARD work. And by sometimes I mean a lot of the times. And we haven't even got to the hard stuff yet! But Jesus is so good and He tells me that in Him I am enough and through Him I can give grace and love even in those hard it's-3am-and-no-one-wants-to-be-awake-but-here-we-are moments. This has also given me such a different lens to view other moms by! I see them in the grocery store or at the park or wrestling to get their kids into the car and I want to say "You are doing so good!! Don't give up mama! Jesus sees you right here and even if no one else does, He does." </div>
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We all need more grace.</div>
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I am so blessed. If you would have ever asked me if I would be a stay at home mom I would have probably said no. By God's grace here I am. He has provided for me to stay home for this season. And I am so lucky. </div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-72596653570725922015-06-03T11:19:00.001-07:002015-06-03T11:19:22.354-07:00One month <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I cannot believe that I am the mom of an almost 6 week old little girl. They always tell you that time flies once you have a baby and I am learning how true that is every day. I have loved being a mom. It certainly has its challenges as Zach and I navigate what our new life looks like with me being a full time stay at home mommy. On days that are harder than others and Emmy just doesn't want to be put down or when her acid re-flux causes her pain and tears are her only consolation I remind myself how fleeting time is. How you blink and 6 weeks have already flown by. Those reminders help me to slow down and try not to worry about the dirty floor and the mountain of laundry and just cuddle her close and be her comfort. To snuggle her and pray for her little mind, heart and soul. To dream about her future and our life home together as mommy and daughter. Every day is a precious gift and as a friend once said "Little doesn't last forever". </div>
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In this season of stay at home mommy hood I have so many hopes and dreams for our time. </div>
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I want to be a memory maker and fill our home with laughter, creativity and fun. </div>
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I want to set our family up for success with priorities that matter like time with the Lord and each other.<br />I desire to set examples that will help shape Emmalynn's character in years to come. </div>
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I want to carve out time for other people in our life and serving them whenever we can. </div>
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What a blessing it is to stay home and raise this treasure. To be honest, I don't know that I thought the day would ever come that I could stay home to raise a family. </div>
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The Lord has been our Portion and Provision. </div>
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<span style="color: #141823;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><b><i><u>One Month </u></i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i> I love to growl like a bear when I eat, listen to music, go on car rides </i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>and stretch my long legs and arms out after I nap.</i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i> I'm super strong and love to lift my head to explore and I want to roll over. </i></b></span></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm getting better at sleeping at night </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">but</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i> my favorite way to sleep is curled up on mom and dad's chests.</i></b></span></span></div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-10396749308688439862015-04-22T08:41:00.000-07:002015-04-22T08:41:17.479-07:00Becoming a Mommy <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is my last known day of being pregnant. Unless Miss Emmalynn, who seems to be full of surprises, decides to come on her own today I will be induced tomorrow. It is a strange feeling knowing exactly when pregnancy is coming to a close and a new chapter of being a mom is starting. The anticipation and anxious excitement in our house is at an all time high. We are so excited about this new chapter and also battling some anxiety of "Are we <i>REALLY</i> ready to be parents?" "Are we capable and able?" "Do we have <u>ANY</u> idea at all what in the world we are doing!?" The answer to these questions is no. On our own we are unable to do this task set before us. We have no idea what we are doing or how to be a mom or a dad. And, can anyone actually be ready to do something they have never done before? </div>
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But, in the last few days of my maternity leave I have been resting in the peace of knowing that God is good. And that He has chosen Zach and I, unworthy as we are, to parent our daughter. He has hand picked us for this task and in that He has given us what we need moment by moment, day by day. On our own we are not capable of doing this, but with Him we are. We are so honored to have been chosen to parent this precious little girl that has been growing inside me for the last ten months. </div>
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I can't believe she is almost here. The wiggles and squirms that we watch dance across my belly every night are going to come to life in our arms in just a few short hours. The face that we have seen on many ultrasounds is going to be looking at us so soon. I am so excited to smother your face with kisses little girl and to finally hold you in my arms! We can't wait to start this adventure of being a family of 3. </div>
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With pregnancy coming to a close and knowing that every facet of our life is getting ready to change it has caused me to do a lot of reflection and spend a lot of time mulling over memories. Zach and I will have been married 3 years this June. While I am so excited to begin this new chapter I am also forever thankful for the one that is coming to a close- life as 2. Zach, I have come to love you in a deeper way than I thought possible almost 3 years ago when I said "I do". I have loved every second of my life with you- from the hard things that I wish we didn't have to experience to loving this awesome life God has blessed us with. In the last 10 months of my pregnancy you have been my biggest supporter and greatest friend I could ever want. Pregnancy has been quite the journey and you have never left my side. To bringing me water and holding me as I cried when I got sick nearly every single day for 3 months, to rubbing my back and hips (which is often now!), sitting up with me when I can't sleep at night, picking up extra chores around the house, cooking dinner and forcing me to start maternity leave early because you knew I needed to- you are my prince charming. Thank you for all the things you have done that have gone unnoticed by others as all the attention has been on my growing belly. You love me the way Christ loves the Church. When our daughter looks at you she will see the greatest example of a Godly man and you are setting the bar high for whoever steals her heart one day. Thank you for all you do for our family. I love you forever. I cherish all the memories we have made during this season as 2 and I can't wait for the many, many more memories that are yet to come as we become a mom and dad!</div>
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<i>Tomorrow life as we know it changes forever, and I can't wait! Emmalynn, hurry on up little girl, you have a lot of people ready to meet you and love on you! </i></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-27402443340432326292014-08-17T17:10:00.001-07:002014-08-17T17:10:25.596-07:00#72We finally got a new laptop! As Zach starts his masters program... <u>tomorrow!!!</u>... we figured it is about time to invest in a newer computer that doesn't run the risk of crashing at any moment. Tax free weekend was a great time for us to take advantage of this and we got a stellar deal on our new 17" HP.<br /><br />
It always amazes me how much technology changes throughout the years and how electronics are smaller, thinner, faster and more advanced.<br />
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Have fun writing your papers Mr. Haffecke! </div>
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P.S. I am typing this on my OLD computer. Old habits die hard.<br />
<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-11122182659987756682014-07-17T11:23:00.000-07:002014-07-17T11:23:07.233-07:00#77We accomplished our first bucket list item! #77. <div>
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And, we were blessed enough to do this on vacation with one of my most dear friends, Anna and her family. We all piled in their car and made our way from their home in Easton, Maryland to Ocean City. What a fun day! We did lots of walking, site seeing and people watching and at the end of the trip we were able to put our feet in the Atlantic Ocean! <div>
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It's been close to three years since we were together last and we had such a wonderful day of being with each other and our families. God blessed us by putting us on mission together years ago and I am so thankful for this friendship that gives life and truth. Thank you for being our hosts on this day! </div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-37572540550437770652014-07-06T15:54:00.000-07:002014-07-06T16:18:42.005-07:00100 in 1000<b>Zach and I were recently inspired by a friend to complete a goal of fulfilling 100 different bucket list items in 1,000 days. We spent our time driving home from our anniversary trip this year (2 years baby!) making this list and plan to document our achievements as we go. We thought this was an excellent way for us to constantly be striving toward bigger and better things.</b><br />
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<b>Our due date for this list is <i><span style="font-size: large;">March 26, 2017! </span></i> The things in <span style="color: #073763;">blue</span> are specific to Zach and the things in <span style="color: #4c1130;">purple</span> are mine. The others are for us both.</b><br />
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<b>In no specific order...here goes!</b><br />
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<b>1// Pay off all personal debt</b><br />
<b>2//Buy a house</b><br />
<b>3// Become actively involved in leadership at our church</b><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>4// Finish 1/2 of seminary </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>5// Fully design our master and guest room spaces</b></span><br />
<b>6// Reach our goal weights</b><br />
<b>7// Visit Sarah's family at least 4 times</b><br />
<b>8//Take another canoeing/float trip</b><br />
<b>9// One out of state vacations with just us</b><br />
<b>10//Invest in one newer vehicle to replace the Ford</b><br />
<b>11// Become involved in a community group</b><br />
<b>12// Run 5 5ks- each race time better than the race before</b><br />
<b>13//Have 3 couples over for dinner</b><br />
<b>14// Take a hot air balloon ride</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>15// Cook one Turkish meal for Zach </b></span><br />
<b>16//Organize all family pictures from our marriage to present</b><br />
<b>17// Research and go on 3 hikes</b><br />
<b>18// Rent jet skis for a day</b><br />
<b>19// Make and deliver 20 mercy bags to the homeless in our city</b><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>20// Be able to do 20 curls with 35lb weights </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>21// Be able to do 1,000 crunches</b></span><br />
<b>22// Read through the Bible</b><br />
<b>23// Memorize the book of James</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>24// Find my career calling </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>25// Be employed as a pastor </b></span><br />
<b>26// Expand our vegetable garden</b><br />
<b>27// Buy a personal firearm</b><br />
<b>28// Create emergency kits for the house and each vehicle</b><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>29// Become involved in a martial arts class</b></span><br />
<b>30// One month of eating only from home (excluding any church event)</b><br />
<b>31// One week of no social media</b><br />
<b>32// Buy bicycles</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>33// Take one extra curricular/hobby class </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>34// Start a blog </b></span><br />
<b>35// Do DIY projects- <span style="color: #4c1130;">5 for Sarah</span> and <span style="color: #073763;">3 for Zach</span></b><br />
<b>36// Invest in a new kitchen table</b><br />
<b>37// Visit Branson, MO</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>38// Work at an OCC collection center</b></span><br />
<b>39// Go to 2 fine dining experiences</b><br />
<b>40// Attend a live jazz concert</b><br />
<b>41// Serve in one local ministry not associated with PV (our church)</b><br />
<b>42// Work on managing personal stress levels</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>43// Successfully complete 1 month of meal planning </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>44// Try 40 new recipes</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>45// Hang out with work friends outside of work at least 2 times </b></span><br />
<b>46// Read 10 books each</b><br />
<b>47// Read one book together</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>48// Grow an herb garden</b></span><br />
<b>49// Each plan 5 unique and new dates</b><br />
<b>50// Personally tip our favorite Starbucks barista</b><br />
<b>51// Make and hand deliver Christmas goodies to our neighbors</b><br />
<b>52// Ride the Ling in Vegas</b><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>53// Go to Disneyland</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>54// Learn how to play the piano</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>55// Coach little league</b></span><br />
<b>56// Develop 1 new couple friend</b><br />
<b>57// One NLH Saturday (Never Leave the House)</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>58// Make my own laundry soap </b></span><br />
<b>59// Try 3 new KC restaurants</b><br />
<b>60// Go 4 wheeling/camping with the Shaws</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>61// Milk a cow </b></span><br />
<b>62// Catch fish and have a fish fry</b><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>63// Play bass again </b></span><br />
<b>64// Visit a fruit orchard</b><br />
<b>65// Take Watson to a dog park</b><br />
<b>66// 5 random acts of kindness in one day</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>67// Drastically change my hair style </b></span><br />
<b>68// Visit the Shatto farms</b><br />
<b>69// Build up 3 months of income</b><br />
<b>70// Begin to plan an overseas trip</b><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>71// Organize all our music </b></span><br />
<b>72// Buy new laptop</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>73// Grow a watermelon patch</b></span><br />
<b>74// Visit a vineyard</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>75// Go to the top of the St. Louis arch</b></span><br />
<b>76// Visit Ethan</b><br />
<b>77// Put our feet in the Atlantic</b><br />
<b>78// Complete 3 different exercise challenges</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>79// Plank for 5 minutes </b></span><br />
<b>80// Attend 2 live concerts</b><br />
<b>81// Drink nothing but water for one week</b><br />
<b>82// Create 2 new holiday traditions</b><br />
<b>83// Get full body check ups</b><br />
<b>84// Go Christmas caroling</b><br />
<b>85// One camping trip</b><br />
<b>86// Pull an all nighter</b><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><b>87// Experience one crab/lobster boil </b></span><br />
<b>88// Make each other one handmade gift</b><br />
<b>89// Take a cooking class</b><br />
<b>90// Reach out to old friends</b><br />
<b>91// Go star gazing</b><br />
<b>92// Take a dancing class</b><br />
<b>93// Take Watson on 100 walks</b><br />
<b>94// Incorporate stretching in daily life</b><br />
<b>95// Become a mentor</b><br />
<b>96// Go swimming somehow!!</b><br />
<b>97// Give more than we receive one Christmas</b><br />
<b>98// Host one family holiday</b><br />
<b>99// Leave our mark on something</b><br />
<b>100// Share our journey through this list!</b><br />
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-59776996250007922862014-06-19T14:21:00.002-07:002014-06-19T14:21:48.545-07:00JOY <div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
This month I am fighting for joy. Trying to choose joy can be hard- especially when life feels mundane. In this season Zach and I are searching for the more. Trusting that the Lord has a plan for us in this season and anxiously awaiting the next season. Learning that the Lord is more than enough even in the seasons where my selfishness is craving a change.<u></u><u></u></div>
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We have much to look forward to this summer and even this month. For starters it is my birthday month, which I will admit is much less fun now that I am inching closer to 30, so help me. We also have not one but TWO vacations planned one of which includes seeing my family for the first time in 9 months and visiting with my dear friends and meeting their little Micah for the first time. And, its summer. Let’s get real, who doesn't love summer!? Save the heat, it is literally an awesome season. Cold is gone and the sun is shining. I count the days to the weekend where we can just do things outside together.<u></u><u></u></div>
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At my job recently there is a LOT of down time. For instance, I am writing this in my down time. And it causes me to question my time here and my purpose here. I know the Lord has a plan and I am choosing to trust Him in that, but it gets hard. Very hard. Driving close to 2 hours a day to and from work, now in separate vehicles from my love and getting home with barely enough energy to cook dinner let alone work out. Life gets mundane, and hard. It causes me to question the Lord’s purposes and timing. It makes it a challenge to find joy.<u></u><u></u></div>
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To fight this every day this month I am choosing joy. One thing to thank the Lord for and cause me to praise Him just a little more. Lord, turn my thoughts to yours.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>So</i><i>me of the things that have brought me joy this month....</i></span></div>
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Having Brandon, Alyssa and Landon over for a pizza night <u>at our house </u>and not the hospital!</div>
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A fun day surprise date to the Zoo with Zach last Thursday </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Tossing a football in the backyard with my husband</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></div>
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A schedule change that allows for a TAD more sleep in the mornings and extra time at lunch to work on my Bible study </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Finding an awesome church family to call home </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Free pizza day at work </span></b></div>
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<i>A coffee from Starbucks to start my early morning </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;">Seeing things begin to actually </span><b><span style="font-size: large;">GROW </span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;">in my garden! </span></div>
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<b>Zach getting up with me, </b></div>
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<b>when he doesn't have to,</b></div>
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<b> to help me get ready to go in the mornings </b></div>
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I have a calendar alert that goes off each day at work reminding me to write down just one thing that brought me joy that day.... it helps. God is good. All the time. </div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-86895478310913189092014-05-14T11:31:00.003-07:002014-05-14T11:33:08.156-07:00Gardening World, I have found my new hobby: Gardening. I. Am. In. Love.<br />
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Seriously, did not see this coming.<br />
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It is so much fun! One of my resolutions this year was to try my hand at growing some veggies for our family. So, when spring (or maybe even a little before that because I was just too excited to wait any more) rolled around I begged Zach to take me to Lowes to start my project. Let me tell you, it was a project if there ever was one. I shoulda known that there is no such thing as ONE trip to a home improvement store. Nope. But, it was worth every trip for more seeds, or gloves, or rakes or the MULTIPLE trips we made because we underestimated the amount of dirt it takes to fill one vegetable bed. Seriously, we used like 45 bags of dirt, which is close to 1,000 bags. Who knew?! Not this girl.<br />
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But, I have my garden and it is growing. Now, if I could just keep my pesky dog out of it.<br />
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It was a family affair, always thankful for their help </div>
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All planted: hoping for a harvest of lettuce, green onion, tomato, broccoli, green beans, peppers and one day avocados. </div>
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Avocado tree and tomato plant </div>
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Our yard after many hours of labor cleaning out old and dead brush</div>
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We have some growth with the broccoli plants in the lead and pepper plants blooming! </div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-17743293697500467852014-04-03T15:53:00.002-07:002014-07-06T15:06:24.348-07:00When the doctor tells you "It's Cancer" I don't think I will ever forget that moment. Standing in the middle of Target and reading a text from my dear friend Alyssa that said "It's Cancer". I was stunned, overwhelmed, angry, saddened all in one moment. My text back to her read "Nooooo Alyssa, NO!"<br />
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It could NOT BE TRUE. This was NOT TRUE. This tiny, four month old precious baby of my dear friends could not have cancer. There had to be a mistake. It could not be. We were just there last night in his hospital room, playing cards with his parents. It had to be wrong.<br />
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But, it was. <b>Cancer.</b> </div>
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In those moments standing in Target with tears streaming down my face so many thoughts came at once, rushing my mind and clouding my ability to even be rational.<br />
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<i>"Can he fight this?" </i></div>
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<i>"What if he dies?" </i></div>
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<i>"How do we minister to this family?"</i></div>
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<i>"God, what should we be doing?" </i></div>
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<i>"How is this true?" </i></div>
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<i>"This is not fair!!" </i></div>
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<i>"God, WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS?</i>!" </div>
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Learning how to minister to a hurting family. Learning how to cope with real life problems and struggles and grief over what was and what could be. </div>
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I would have never guessed that their story would be what it is today. We are almost six weeks from the day Landon and his family checked into the hospital. Since that time Landon has had a kidney removed, brain surgery, a shunt put in and a feeding tube placed inside his belly. Today he underwent his second round of chemotherapy- which is outpatient! Praise the Lord. He is the strongest baby I have ever known! With the prayers of many saints behind him Landon in conquering this battle step by step, day by day. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>He is a miracle.</b></span> </div>
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His story is everywhere and spreading like wildfire. Support from people that their family has never even met. Incredible. Our God is not dead. He is alive. He works miracles every day. He hears the prayers of his people. He works in the midst of tragedy. </div>
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I told Alyssa that day of the diagnosis that God had a plan for this baby- and He does and each day we get to see a little more of what that plan is. There is a long, long road ahead of this family and we are blessed to be a part of his story. </div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-58045681845792419752014-04-03T15:36:00.002-07:002014-04-03T15:36:54.838-07:00RunOrDye 5k Well, completed our first 5k ever. What an experience! It feels great to cross something off of my goal and bucket list with full intention of doing more 5ks in the future. We finished in about 45 minutes but did not jog the whole time- my fitness is not quite where we thought it would be at this point (and taking a month off the gym to be at the hospital didn't help either). BUT we did finish it, getting blasted with colored dye the whole way. And, we particularly loved the color throwing dance party at the finish line.<br />
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We loved it so much that we are already signed up for our second 5k of the year next week. This 5K will be in support of Landon Shaw as he is battling stage 4 brain cancer.<br />
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Have I mentioned what a joy it is to have a husband that stands beside me in everything? Even silly, ridiculous desires of my heart. It is overwhelming to be loved by someone so wonderful. </div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-19008501876452943892014-02-20T13:56:00.003-08:002014-02-20T13:56:31.660-08:00here and there <div style="text-align: right;">
Making our house a home is one of my goals for this year. Investing in pieces that will warm our house throughout the weeks and months to come. Today at Target I stumbled across this new piece for our bathroom. </div>
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I had recently updated some of the colors in this space and this new piece seems to fit perfectly. And, to make it even better it was on clearance (my favorite word) for only $6! When I got it home I noticed that it was titled "Custom Turkish Garden". I think it is a match made in heaven.<br />
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-84655587467080929362014-02-13T07:47:00.002-08:002014-02-13T07:47:25.433-08:00Scripture Memory<div style="text-align: center;">
I have decided to begin to work on tucking this treasure into my heart through memorization. To deeply come to terms with the truth in this passage and bury it within my heart to cling to when I need hope and when I need to remember to Praise God for all that He is. </div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Psalm 103</span></b></i></div>
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Praise the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15551A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span> my soul;</div>
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<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-1" style="position: relative;">all my inmost being, praise his holy name.</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-2" id="en-NIV-15552" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
Praise the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15552D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span> my soul,</div>
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<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-2" style="position: relative;">and forget not<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15552E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></span> all his benefits—</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-3" id="en-NIV-15553" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
who forgives all your sins</div>
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<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-3" style="position: relative;">and heals<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15553G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span> all your diseases,</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-4" id="en-NIV-15554" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
who redeems your life<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15554H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></span> from the pit</div>
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<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-4" style="position: relative;">and crowns you with love and compassion,</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-5" id="en-NIV-15555" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
who satisfies<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15555J" title="See cross-reference J">J</a>)"></span> your desires with good things</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-5" style="position: relative;">so that your youth is renewed<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15555K" title="See cross-reference K">K</a>)"></span> like the eagle’s.</span></div>
</span></div>
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The <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> works righteousness</div>
<span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-6" style="position: relative;">and justice for all the oppressed.</span></div>
</span></div>
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He made known<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15557O" title="See cross-reference O">O</a>)"></span> his ways<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15557P" title="See cross-reference P">P</a>)"></span> to Moses,</div>
<span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-7" style="position: relative;">his deeds<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15557Q" title="See cross-reference Q">Q</a>)"></span> to the people of Israel:</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-8" id="en-NIV-15558" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
The <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> is compassionate and gracious,</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-8" style="position: relative;">slow to anger, abounding in love.</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-9" id="en-NIV-15559" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
He will not always accuse,</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-9" style="position: relative;">nor will he harbor his anger forever;</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-10" id="en-NIV-15560" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
he does not treat us as our sins deserve</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-10" style="position: relative;">or repay us according to our iniquities.</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-11" id="en-NIV-15561" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-11" style="position: relative;">so great is his love<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15561U" title="See cross-reference U">U</a>)"></span> for those who fear him;</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-12" id="en-NIV-15562" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
as far as the east is from the west,</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-12" style="position: relative;">so far has he removed our transgressions<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15562W" title="See cross-reference W">W</a>)"></span> from us.</span></div>
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As a father has compassion<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15563X" title="See cross-reference X">X</a>)"></span> on his children,</div>
<span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-13" style="position: relative;">so the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> has compassion on those who fear him;</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-14" id="en-NIV-15564" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
for he knows how we are formed,</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-14" style="position: relative;">he remembers that we are dust.</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-15" id="en-NIV-15565" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
The life of mortals is like grass,</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-15" style="position: relative;">they flourish like a flower<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15565AB" title="See cross-reference AB">AB</a>)"></span> of the field;</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-16" id="en-NIV-15566" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
the wind blows<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15566AC" title="See cross-reference AC">AC</a>)"></span> over it and it is gone,</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-16" style="position: relative;">and its place<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15566AD" title="See cross-reference AD">AD</a>)"></span> remembers it no more.</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-17" id="en-NIV-15567" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
But from everlasting to everlasting</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-17" style="position: relative;">the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>’s love is with those who fear him,</span></div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-17" style="position: relative;">and his righteousness with their children’s children<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15567AE" title="See cross-reference AE">AE</a>)"></span>—</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-18" id="en-NIV-15568" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
with those who keep his covenant</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-18" style="position: relative;">and remember<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15568AG" title="See cross-reference AG">AG</a>)"></span> to obey his precepts.</span></div>
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The <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> has established his throne<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15569AI" title="See cross-reference AI">AI</a>)"></span> in heaven,</div>
<span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-19" style="position: relative;">and his kingdom rules<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15569AJ" title="See cross-reference AJ">AJ</a>)"></span> over all.</span></div>
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Praise the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15570AK" title="See cross-reference AK">AK</a>)"></span> you his angels,</div>
<span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-20" style="position: relative;">you mighty ones<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15570AM" title="See cross-reference AM">AM</a>)"></span> who do his bidding,</span></div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-20" style="position: relative;">who obey his word.</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-21" id="en-NIV-15571" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"> </span><div style="text-align: center;">
Praise the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, all his heavenly hosts,</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-21" style="position: relative;">you his servants<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-15571AP" title="See cross-reference AP">AP</a>)"></span> who do his will.</span></div>
</span><span class="text Ps-103-22" id="en-NIV-15572" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;">
Praise the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, all his works</div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-103-22" style="position: relative;">everywhere in his dominion.</span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-103-22" style="position: relative;">Praise the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, my soul.</span></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-30561606950218511532014-02-06T13:47:00.001-08:002014-02-06T13:47:47.108-08:00Working on my fitnessOne of our goals this year is getting back in shape, or even getting in the best shape of our life. Let me tell you, this is an uphill battle. Making smart food choices and choosing to exercise when I am tired and just want to relax is<u> <i>HARD</i>.</u><br />
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But, we are working on it. What have we done in January to move toward this goal?<br />
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* Designated 4 workout days each week. Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. We have found that knowing ahead of time which days we will be working out prepares us mentally and helps better insure that we will actually make it to the gym.<br />
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* I started the Couch to 5K program. This is an app I downloaded to my phone that takes you from the couch to running/jogging a 5k distance in 9 weeks. This week was the beginning of my 5th week and I am walking/jogging a little over 2 miles in 30 minutes. I still have a ways to go but I am making progress! Only 50 days until our first 5k of the year! Let me tell you- I CAN NOT wait until warmer weather is here so that I can run outside.<br />
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* Hired a personal trainer to plan meals for our family. This is something we are still adjusting to. As both of us work outside the home and are gone around 13 hours a day for work alone planning healthy meals can be extremely difficult. When I get home I don't have the mental capacity to figure out what is healthy for us to eat. This trainer is helping with that! It takes a burden off knowing what's for dinner before I even get off work.<br />
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* We are also working towards designating in advance our "splurge" meals and/or days that we eat out. This way it is truly a treat and something to look forward to rather than a last minute indulgence.<br />
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I wish I could update you with an amount of weight I have lost- but I truly don't know. Shame on me. But, we have made some strides and are working on it day by day!<br />
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-42195007240864015972014-02-06T13:36:00.000-08:002014-02-06T13:36:11.792-08:00Snowpocalypse 2014Nothing screams winter like a snowstorm. A 24 hour storm to be exact. Today is day three of being "trapped" inside due to the 14 hours of snow we got on Tuesday. We got around 10 inches of snow!! I have loved being able to stay inside and watch it fall from inside my warm house. And, bonus!, getting to spend 2 days in a row with my husband. Doesn't get much better than that!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGUkGQRxkTs37LV9yeywWBYnhGhcE5L3Q5Kga8jERntDGW5dBYqZdZKvh2LkbCFH8atn49yC8fNk3U1AdRBfHvgF14LWpjAMhtw7dzpj5ddQZUwvBXJH9r2h0KepMivaZaa9FLf3FT9w/s1600/IMG_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGUkGQRxkTs37LV9yeywWBYnhGhcE5L3Q5Kga8jERntDGW5dBYqZdZKvh2LkbCFH8atn49yC8fNk3U1AdRBfHvgF14LWpjAMhtw7dzpj5ddQZUwvBXJH9r2h0KepMivaZaa9FLf3FT9w/s1600/IMG_0014.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />It kept coming and coming....and coming! </div>
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My diligent husband cleaning off our car.... so much snow! </div>
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Watson doesn't seem to mind. He loves to run and play.</div>
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So much white! </div>
<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-61105858944431785532014-01-03T16:54:00.002-08:002014-01-03T16:54:46.310-08:00Hello New Year!I look forward to this year in eager expectation- I feel that it is going to contain some great moments. Looking back over 2013 so much happened- new house, new jobs, graduation from school, new car, new church. Just so much new, and quite a bit of change and transition. <br />
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My word for this year is PEACE.<br />
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I am praying for a year of peace and contentment within our home. A year to establish ourselves a little more as a family and to establish ourselves in a community. I long for a year to be still and listen to the Lord's voice as we continue to determine His longer term plan for our life in ministry. As I told Anna in one of our Skype dates- "A year of peace, no changes!"<br />
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Here are some goals that I have for this year- and I am excited!<br />
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<ul>
<li>Establish a financial plan for our family to include some long term savings and retirement goals </li>
<li>Get actively involved in a church and small group within our city </li>
<li>Go on a "trip of a lifetime" to celebrate our 2 years of marriage (Maryland and NYC here we come!) </li>
<li>Plan 2 romantic weekend getaways </li>
<li>Alter our lifestyle to become healthier and lose weight with a goal of losing 40 pounds this year </li>
<li>See my family at least one time </li>
<li>Run in 2 5ks- We already are registered for the RunOrDye 5k in March </li>
<li>Memorize 10 passages of Scripture </li>
<li>Read one book per month </li>
<li>Create some emergency preparation for our family </li>
<li>Add some creative and functional elements to each room to make our house a home </li>
<li>Plant a vegetable garden</li>
<li>Develop 1 new friendship </li>
<li>Maintain and expand my blog throughout the year</li>
<li>Organize and print family pictures, including our wedding photos (shame on me!) </li>
<li>Adequately celebrate Zach's 24th and my 27th birthday as well as our TWO year anniversary </li>
<li>Become involved in community outreach or volunteer program </li>
<li>Invest in our second family vehicle to make it functional for our family</li>
<li>Prayerfully evaluate our next steps in our call to full time ministry </li>
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I am sure I will add more over time but these are some things that I would like to see come to be this year. Again, I think that God has great things in store and I am anxiously approaching each day and month with excitement. Happy 2014! </div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-84297870426827419572013-12-25T18:02:00.000-08:002013-12-25T18:02:36.026-08:00Day 25-Merry Christmas! <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>God, our Savior!!</i></span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="text Isa-9-6" id="en-NKJV-17836" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">For unto us a Child is born,</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="text Isa-9-6" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">Unto us a Son is given;</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="text Isa-9-6" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">And the government will be upon His shoulder.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="text Isa-9-6" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">And His name will be called</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="text Isa-9-6" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="text Isa-9-6" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;" /><span class="text Isa-9-7" id="en-NKJV-17837" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;">7 </span>Isaiah 9:6</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">GOD IS: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Creator,</span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Sustainer,</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Provider,</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Redeemer,</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Healer,</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Comforter,</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Deliverer,</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Good</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> , </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Counselor</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> , </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Father,</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Alpha and Omega,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Love,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Gracious,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Author of the Word,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Light,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">The Potter, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -0.25in;">Incomprehensible,</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Everlasting and Unfailing</span><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> ,</span></span><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;">Hears my cry, </span><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -0.25in;">Missional, </span><span style="background-color: white;">Great Sacrifice,</span><span style="font-size: 7pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Teacher, Savior and so much more... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He came that we might have life and have it abundantly. He came that His name might be glorified and made great throughout all the earth. He lived a perfect life instructing us in His Truth and the died the death that we deserved so that we would be forgiven. He is our Savior! </span></div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-55686360105401641772013-12-24T16:51:00.003-08:002013-12-24T16:51:49.518-08:00Day 24<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Merry Christmas Eve!</i></b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Almost my last blog of this season, 24 days of reflecting on who God is drawing to a close. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Day 24- God is Missional</u> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my favorite Christmas traditions is candle light Christmas Eve service and I have loved continuing that tradition with my own little family. This is our second Christmas together, hard to believe, and tonight we bundled up against the freezing temps and marched into church joining hundreds of other believers in celebrating the birth of Christ. Every year the Christmas Eve service is always a time of reflection for me. Singing Christmas hymns with other believers, hearing the story of the birth of Christ and pausing with my family to reflect on The meaning of tomorrow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the end of the service light is passed from person to person until each candle in the building is lit filling the sanctuary with a soft beautiful glow. Our voices raise together in a song reflecting on that mysterious night when love came down to earth and the world stood still. And we are reminded that Christ is the light of the world and we as His followers are responsible to carry that light, piercing holes in the darkness and spreading hope to the earth that Christ has come! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzmPysQSsQpqoeip1bP4F9l_l1iiwjRfioVvZ5lxljJXrGnB9MsfvXVA48bKQTRTx7MsTTuKh_EqDz3GG6APeqGxjPWkphHJn1wUJ8lmz4uAWnUqnnkZgEuwKPo8W29KgxiEv8KgnLWc/s1600/candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJzmPysQSsQpqoeip1bP4F9l_l1iiwjRfioVvZ5lxljJXrGnB9MsfvXVA48bKQTRTx7MsTTuKh_EqDz3GG6APeqGxjPWkphHJn1wUJ8lmz4uAWnUqnnkZgEuwKPo8W29KgxiEv8KgnLWc/s320/candles.jpg" width="229" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This has always been God's plan. Spreading light to the darkness and hope to the hopeless and using us to do it. Our God is a missional God who longs to leave no one behind. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="text Matt-28-18" id="en-NIV-24214" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> "</span>Then Jesus came to them and said,<span class="woj">“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24214Q" title="See cross-reference Q">Q</a>)"></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"> </span><span class="text Matt-28-19" id="en-NIV-24215" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span>Therefore go and make disciples of<u> all nations</u>,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24215R" title="See cross-reference R">R</a>)"></span> baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24215S" title="See cross-reference S">S</a>)"></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"> </span><span class="text Matt-28-20" id="en-NIV-24216" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span>and teaching<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24216T" title="See cross-reference T">T</a>)"></span> them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24216U" title="See cross-reference U">U</a>)"></span> always, to the very end of the age.” {Matt 28:18-20} </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-28-20" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>All nations, all people.</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-28-20" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> Everywhere.</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-28-20" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> God does not desire that any are left behind.</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-28-20" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> His love is bigger than an ocean and</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-28-20" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> His grace expands beyond the depths of this universe.</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-28-20" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> No one is beyond His reach. </b></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-28-20" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A child in a manger. The King in human form. Born that man no more should die. </span></span></span></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-7412553196966540132013-12-23T19:50:00.001-08:002013-12-23T19:50:31.861-08:00Day 23God, our Teacher<br />
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"This is what the Lord says- Your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go." Isaiah 48:17</div>
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As disciples of Christ we have the honor to learn from the Great teacher. We see all throughout the New Testament Christ's disciples learning from Him, following Jesus and living out the things that they learned. We see their failures and inability to grasp the ways of Christ which is oh so encouraging as I myself often feel the same way. And, more importantly we see Christ continuing to teach His followers and direct them in the way they should go as they stumbled along in their attempts to grasp His lofty world changing Truth. </div>
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It is important to remember that Christ was not just a teacher back then. </div>
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He continues to be a teacher today. He continues to help us learn what is best for us </div>
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and He continues to light the path on the way that we should go. </div>
<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-31805366806020447922013-12-22T14:53:00.001-08:002013-12-22T14:53:10.915-08:00Day 20, 21 & 22<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ok.... so I am definitely not very good at this daily blogging thing. I keep reminding myself- just a few more days. Thankful for the time to reflect on all God is this week.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">P.S.- Last night we got out first real snow of the season! It was wonderful to wake up to a white winter wonderland-even if we were snowed in. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am gonna cheat a little today and focus on just one attribute of Christ as this is really quite sufficient. </span><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Great Sacrifice </span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Christ has stood in our place and paid the price for our sin. He has taken on the punishment that we deserve because of our separation from Him. His sacrifice has always been the plan from the beginning. Without Christ there would be no hope for today or for our eternity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A spotless lamb. A perfect sacrifice. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="text Isa-53-5" id="en-NIV-18717" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"><br /></span>But he was pierced<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18717N" title="See cross-reference N">N</a>)"></span> for our transgressions,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18717O" title="See cross-reference O">O</a>)"></span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Isa-53-5" style="position: relative;">he was crushed<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18717P" title="See cross-reference P">P</a>)"></span> for our iniquities;</span></span><br /><span class="text Isa-53-5" style="position: relative;">the punishment<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18717Q" title="See cross-reference Q">Q</a>)"></span> that brought us peace<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18717R" title="See cross-reference R">R</a>)"></span> was on him,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Isa-53-5" style="position: relative;">and by his wounds<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18717S" title="See cross-reference S">S</a>)"></span> we are healed.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18717T" title="See cross-reference T">T</a>)"></span></span></span><br /><span class="text Isa-53-6" id="en-NIV-18718" style="position: relative;">We all, like sheep, have gone astray,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18718U" title="See cross-reference U">U</a>)"></span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Isa-53-6" style="position: relative;">each of us has turned to our own way;<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18718V" title="See cross-reference V">V</a>)"></span></span></span><br /><span class="text Isa-53-6" style="position: relative;">and the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> has laid on him</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Isa-53-6" style="position: relative;">the iniquity<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18718W" title="See cross-reference W">W</a>)"></span> of us all.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Isaiah 53:5</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fully God and man and born to earth with the sole purpose of fulfilling the redemption of mankind. A King that made Himself nothing to live out a life fully worthy of all our devotion and allegiance. The hope of the World born in a manger. This is the beautiful picture of the Gospel- a way out, hope in the midst of darkness. A Savior taking my place on the cross and paying my debt. </span>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-53730034623080760582013-12-19T08:08:00.000-08:002013-12-19T08:08:07.667-08:00Day 19... Only 6 more days until Christmas! God Hears His people!<br />
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"I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry." Psalm 40:1<br />
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How exciting that our cries do not fall on deaf ears. How amazing that our God listens to us in joy and sorrow, in peace and turmoil. He counsels us and guides us. As we speak to Him he communicates to our hearts. We do not serve a God that is distant or imaginary. He is not an idol or a man made creation. He hears us when we cry to Him and we can wait in certainty that our prayers will be answered.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-86293880194155159262013-12-19T08:01:00.007-08:002013-12-19T08:01:57.517-08:00Day 18<i>God is Everlasting and Unfailing</i><br />
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<i>The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his <span style="font-size: large;"><b>unfailing</b></span> love.</i></div>
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<i> By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, </i></div>
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<i>their starry host by the breath of his mouth. </i></div>
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<i>He gathers the waters of the sea into jars; he puts the deep into storehouses. </i></div>
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<i>Let all the earth fear the Lord;</i></div>
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<i> l</i><i>et all the people of the world revere Him.</i></div>
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<i> <u>For He spoke and it came to be; He commanded and it stood firm.</u></i></div>
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<i> The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. </i></div>
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<i>But the plans of the Lord stand firm <b><span style="font-size: large;">forever</span></b>, </i></div>
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<i>the purposes of his heart through all generations.</i></div>
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<i>- Psalm 33:5-11</i></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1690324653932580245.post-32129461052877019842013-12-17T19:27:00.001-08:002013-12-17T19:27:10.954-08:00Day 17Forgive my tardiness.... all this writing is beginning to wear me out!<br />
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<u><i><span style="font-size: large;">The Potter</span></i></u><br />
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"Yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter, we are all the work of your hand." {Isaiah 64:8}<br />
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Jeremiah 18 talks about the Lord's revelation to Jeremiah- that we are God's masterpieces that He may shape at His own will and pleasing. <i>God, the Potter- the great Creator whom breathes life into us. </i>Who works tediously on us, shaping us into what He has created us to be. At times, this is a painful experience as we tend to go against the hand of the Potter, attempting to go the way we want to go. Creating imperfections in our life and hindering our usefulness. Just as a potter would God does not give up on us, His creation, despite our rebellion and self imposed imperfections. Oftentimes our sinful actions will leave holes in us, the clay, and we dry that way- full of cracks and imperfections and simply incapable of being what God designed us to be. But, God does not give up on us. A potter would not throw a piece like this away because clay does not loose it's mold-ability even when it becomes dry and seemingly useless. The potter can break this piece, adding water to the dried up clay and begin the process of reshaping it into what he desires it to be, a useful instrument. The Great Potter is the same way, breaking us, adding life back into us, constantly shaping us and smoothing out all our imperfections to create us into useful instruments for His Kingdom.<br />
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The Potter does not abandon His creation, no one is beyond His reach.<br />
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15597138015795904748noreply@blogger.com0