The Gift of wonder

Every year, my parents invite the whole church into their home. The only lighting is from candles and the Christmas tree. We sing Christmas Carols and anyone who wants to has the opportunity to perform a song. When the songs are over, finger food and fellowship begin. It is a beautiful night. Here is a sample:

The Pioneer Life

My Mother is the ultimate pioneer woman. She very industriously makes baskets, soap, paper, delicious and very healthy foods with total ease. If she wants to learn about something, she reads a book (pictures are not required) and then makes it. I am sure she would say her endeavours do not always come out perfect but I have my doubts.

Because the economy is slow, our finances do not list us as millionaires, and I no longer have a vehicle to continue my work as a caregiver, I have purposed to learn from my mother and others how to a) stretch each dollar and b) how to create amazing things to sell (without lots of funds into supplies.) This is something of an uphill battle as I am not my mother and most of things needed to fulfill the above requirements are not in my current list of skills. So, I invite you to journey with me as I learn :-)

-eVerLasTing-

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good

For His lovingkindness is everlasting

Give thanks to the God of gods

For His lovingkindness is everlasting

Give thanks to the Lord of lords,

For His lovingkindness is everlasting

To Him who alone does great wonders,

For His lovingkindness is everlasting

To Him who made the heavens with skill

For His lovingkindness is everlasting

-Psalm 136:1-5

One Year Later

November 28, 2008, (Our Wedding Day) I promised to Honor + Respect John. One year [and a few days later], I realize I have so very much to learn about how to live this out but, oh the ways John Loves + Cherish's me! The delights of his love is unending! I never have a need to question his commitment to me or to our marriage. I am SO GRATEFUL for the BLESSING of marriage to John!

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When we said our vows, we didn't know the pain we would walk through in losing our first born, the challenges with my health, or the dry financial times. But I praise Jesus, that He brought us closer together through the pain. Our love continues to grow stronger and deeper and I am so excited about spending the rest of my life with John!

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Love is not a place

To come and go as we please

It's a house we enter in

Then commit to never leave

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So lock the door behind you

Throw away the key

We'll work it out together

Let it bring us to our knees

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Love is a shelter in a raging storm

Love is peace in the middle of a war

And if we try to leave, may God send angels to guard the door

No, love is not a fight - but it's something worth fighting for.

- Warren Barfield