Christmas

As Christmas rapidly approaches, I'm reminded once again of Jesus' birth.
Yesterday, I had the privilege to take my sister to a couple Nursing Home's to sing with a group of kids from church. While there, my mom said that one lady started crying because she wanted to give us money for singing.
Apparently, they don't get visited very often.

My dad made a point the other night... he said, "why is it that we visit all the nursing homes at Christmas, but for the rest of the year, no one visit's them
 and sings to the them. Everyone ignored them."

Whether we realize it or not, it's true...isn't it? We seem to always visit the elderly during Christmas, but we ignore them the rest of the year.

This time of year, many of us think about gifts, and getting. "me, me, me." Sometimes we forget about others. We don't think about what Christmas is really about. We don't think about the poor and the needy. For me, I don't always thank God that I have a family. I was reminded of that today, once again. Let me explain...

Today, my little brother, Elijah gave me quite a scare. He told me he was hungry, so I told him that he can have a carrot or a piece of celery. He told me that he would go get a piece of celery. So, as he went into the kitchen, he said, "ow!". The next moment, he came running into my room holding his breath and crying. After finally breathing again, he fainted. (which he has been known to do before) Once I finally got him to calm down, he said that his head hit the corner of the counter. I cuddled him for about 3 minutes before I realized that he was sleeping! I set him on the couch and quickly called my dad. Because my dad is an X-ray tech, he knows all about the body. I told my dad that Elijah might have a slight concussion. My dad asked me to explain his symptoms  and he said to wake Elijah up in 10 minutes and see how he's doing. Thankfully after me waking him up, I asked him a few questions, and he seemed to be fine. Apparently, he might have had a slight concussion, but not enough for worry about.

I started thinking about all the "what if's", and I realized how blessed we were that nothing "serious" had happened to him. So, as you continue on wrapping presents, and getting ready for Christmas, I encourage you to think about others. Not just the elderly, the poor, and the needy, but everyone. And may your Christmas be full of joy as
we celebrate the birth of our Savior! What are ya'll doing for Christmas? Drop me a comment! I'd love to know!

God's Protection

Last Saturday, I was helping out at a friends wedding...which mean's, staying after the wedding to clean up. My dad sent me a text about 9:30 p.m. telling my brother and I to leave now because the weather was getting bad. It was pretty slick on the roads where we lived. 

So, my younger brother, Ethan, said that he'd drive us home. I'm so glad he did!!! The roads were fine, until we got to Castle Rock... they were so slick that the traffic was completely stopped! (sadly to say, I'm not exaggerating) So, Ethan and I contemplated on whether we should get off of the freeway and use the side roads  or to just be patient. The traffic wasn't moving, so we went ahead and got off the freeway. We hit a red light, but once it turned green...we tried to go, but all our big Suburban would do was slide. Some weird person behind us, saw that we were sliding, but kept coming around us like he didn't even see us. God was protecting us as the man passed us within inches of hitting us. Finally after we got out of the slippery part of the off ramp, we took the side roads, trying NOT to stop. So, instead of a 7 minute drive from the off ramp to our house, it was a 25 minute drive. However...I was so thankful that my brother was driving and not me!

I couldn't help but thanking God before going to bed that night! God was holding us from sliding down the hill! To think what would have happened if our suburban kept on rolling. Yikes! It made me realize that God protects us in just the little ways.

I started thinking about the Bible, and how God protected many people! To name a few...
God protected Moses when he was placed among the reeds by the river bank. (Exodus 2)
God protected Noah and his family when the flood happened. (Genesis 6)
God protected Mordecai from Haman in the book of Esther.

These are just a few of the hundreds of people that God protected. It made me realize that God is always looking out for us, whether we realize it or not. Sometimes we don't realize even the little things that he protects us from. So, thank you God for protecting me!

Here

This last week my mom and I were pondering over the month of December. We've got so many things going on throughout this month. So much in fact, that it tends to be overwhelming, and stressful for our family.

I started thinking... Wow! Even through the stressful times, God is with us! He never leaves us! I was trying to find a poem or a song about stressful times, but as I was driving to the store the other day, I heard a song come on called, "Here" by Kate White.
 I thought it was perfect! So, I thought I'd share it with you!!! :)

Here: by Kate White

Here, in this place, with emotions I will praise you. And here, in this place, you embrace me as I am! Here, without fear, I can climb into your lap, and cry. And here,
bathed in tears, the unknown is put to rest. My life is overwhelming me, it's hard to see the things you see. Your spirit comes, to comfort me, I will praise you, I will praise you,
I will praise you here.

If ya'll would like to hear the song, I have it on the right of my sidebar.

I encourage you, that as the month of December flies by, that you will take the time to breath; but not just breath...ponder. Ponder over the last year(s). Look at how faithful God was to you. Look how through everything, God never left your side. He was right there! Those days that you wanted to cry because so much was happening. He was the one that caught your tear. Ponder about how marvelous He is! Ponder about all the things that he's blessed you with. He's still with you, and as the month of December goes flies by, remember that He's right "Here" with us, even
through the stressful and overwhelming times! 

Giving Thanks...even when it hurts!

What exactly does, "Giving Thanks" mean?
This past week, our family as well as so many others Gave Thanks as we all sat down to eat with friends/family. So, what were/are you thankful for?
I'd love to hear it!!!
I have a list of what I'm thankful for, but I thought I'd just share
 a couple with you.

1. The birth of Jesus Christ!
2. Jesus Christ dying on the cross!
3. A family that loves me!
4. Friends that I can call my friends!
5. A house to live in!
6. Food, water, and clothes to put on!
7. My dad being blessed with a job that he's been so faithful too!
8. A Church that we can call our home!
9. The Promise that Christ will come back again!

Those are just a few (okay, more than a few) things that I'm thankful for. However, I wanted to really talk about "Giving Thanks...even when it hurts!"
When we have something bad going on in our lives, we have a tendency to want to be grumpy and...what I said in my other post, have the "it's all about me" attitude.
It says in 1st Thessalonians 5:18,
 "in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
So, we are to be grateful in EVERYTHING!!! If you are going through something right now... try looking at all the little things in life that God has blessed you with!
My dad and I were talking about this last night in family worship...in the 9/11, all people were asking was, "Why?" But what they didn't realize was that God had really saved a lot of people. If I'm not mistaken there were a little over 2,000 killed in the 9/11. However, more than 50,000 people were delayed somehow. Some had Alarm clocks that didn't go off in time, so therefore didn't get killed in the World Trade Center. There were others who had rides that were late, or buses that were jammed, traffic galore, traffic lights now working... malfunctions everywhere! So, when we ask, "Why?" to God, remember that we may not see HIS big plan! So be thankful for the moments you have! We need to always be giving thanks for the moments that God blessed us with. After all, we don't know how long those moments will last.

It's NOT about ME!!!

Yesterday, our family had the privilege of having our friends over from after Church. With this family, the children lost their mother to a heart attack when the oldest child was only 18! This family struggled for 5 years, as the father was getting over the loss of his wife.

Last night, the father had a wonderful testimony! We've known this family for 3 1/2 years, and it's been 5 years since this tragic accident happened. He told us that just 2 1/2 months ago, our pastor told him, "You look depressed... stop thinking about yourself! It's not about you!..." This is what made the father realize, all these years that he was thinking only about himself! He was thinking about how lonely, sad, depressed "he" was without his wife. Then he realized...I can either go tell other people about how God never left me during my time of need, or I can stay depressed all my life. Compared to what he used to be, and seeing him now...it's a HUGE change!!!

However, it got me thinking... almost all the time, I think, "it's all about me!" Don't we all? We all have that time in our life when we say, "It's all about me!" "I want this", or "I want that"... "I, I, I". "I' want to read this book, not that one". "I want to cook this meal, not the one you like." Notice all the "I's" in there? So what does God say about all this?

John 3:30
He must increase, but I must decrease.

Matthew 6:33
But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, 
and all these things will be added to you.

There's many more verses, but I just named a couple. So, why do I have such a hard time applying it to my own life? Why do I think of myself all the time? Yes, we are all sinners! But...we can CHOOSE to wake up in the morning and praise God for yet another day that he blessed us with...or we can CHOOSE to be grumpy, sad, and lonely. CHOOSE to say, "it's not about me today!!!" What will you CHOOSE?"...choose for yourselves today whom you will serve...but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”Joshua 24:15

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Perfectionism

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been trying to control my anger as patiently as possible. I have 1 particular Piano student who always gives me a hard time about everything…thankfully his mom is there
 to help me out! J

     There was one week though that he was getting so upset because he couldn't get the music perfect! He wanted it to sound perfect with no mistakes. I then had to tell him quietly and calmly, “…we all make mistakes! We can never get things done exactly the first time. Even me as a Piano teacher always makes mistakes!” I then went on to tell him that it’s okay, and that he just needs to practice. Practice 
comes with time...

     After they went home, I started thinking about my life and “perfection”.  No, not all of us are perfectionist, but we’d all like to have it perfect… wouldn't we? We’d like to make it perfect to make the other person proud.  I always love it when my parents say, “Caitlin did this…or Caitlin did that.” It has a nice ring to it…don’t you think? However, the ONLY person that was/is perfect is God! God IS the ONLY person who can make things perfect! He created the stars, sky, galaxy, earth, universe…with what?...NO mistakes. There are absolutely no mistakes in anything that he created. Maybe you’re someone who wishes that you were never born. Maybe you’re someone who thinks that since you can’t do anything right, then what’s the point of living. Maybe you had a hard day at work, and you feel like you’re useless. I've got news for you…you are God’s perfection! No, he’s not done with you! You are still HIS work, and HIS delight. He created you for a purpose…to live and glorify HIM! 

So, the next time that we feel like giving up, remember that God's still working on us!
 Ephesians 2:10
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.

The God who won't give up!

by Max Lucado • 

Not everyone in Jesus’ world gave him a warm welcome. Not everyone received him with grace. And many didn't just ignore him, they rejected him.

Isaiah prophesied his reception like this: “He was despised and rejected by men”
 (Isa. 53:3 NIV).

John summarized the rejection of Jesus with these words: “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him” (John 1:10-11 NIV).

How did Christ endure treatment like that? At any point he could have said, “I quit. I've had enough.” Why didn't he? What kept him from giving up?

I wonder if Lee Ielpi understands the answer? He is a retired firefighter, a New York City firefighter. He gave twenty-six years to the city. But on September 11, 2001, he gave much more. He gave his son. Jonathan Ielpi was a fireman as well. When the
Twin Towers fell, he was there.

Firefighters are a loyal clan. When one perishes in the line of duty, the body is left where it is until a firefighter who knows the person can come and quite literally pick it up. Le made the discovery of his son’s body his personal mission. He dug daily with dozens of others at the sixteen-acre graveyard. One Tuesday, December 11, three months after the disaster, his son was found. And Lee was there to carry him out.

He didn't give up. The father didn't quit. He refused to turn and leave. Why? Because his love for his son was greater than the pain of the search. Can’t the same be said about Christ? Why didn't he quit? Because the love for his children was greater than the pain of the journey. He came to pull you out. Your world had collapsed. That’s why he came.
You were dead, dead to sin. That’s why he came. He loves you. That’s why he came.

That’s why he endured the distance between us. “Love…endures all things.”

That’s why he endured the resistance from us. “Love…endures all things.”

That’s why he went the final step of the incarnation: “God made him who had not sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God”
 (2 Cor. 5:21 NIV).

Why did Jesus do that? There is only one answer. And that answer has one word. Love. And that love of Christ “bears all things, believes all things, hopes
all things, endures all things” (1 Cor. 13:7 NKJV).

Think about that for a moment. Drink from that for a moment. Drink deeply. Don’t just sip or nip. It’s time to gulp. It’s time to let his love cover all things in your life. All secrets. All hurts. All hours of evil, minutes of worry.

The mornings you awoke in the bed of a stranger? His love will cover that. The years you peddled prejudice and pride? His love will cover that. Every promise broken, drug taken, penny stolen. Every cross word, cuss word, and harsh word.
His love covers all things.

Let it. Discover along with the psalmist. “He…loads me with love and mercy” (Ps. 103:4). Picture a giant dump truck full of love. There you are behind it. God lifts the bed until the love starts to slide. Slowly at first, then down, down, down until you are hidden, buried, covered in his love.

“Hey, where are you?” someone asks.

“In here, covered in love.”

Let his love cover all things.

Do it for his sake. To the glory of his name.

Do it for your sake. For the peace of your heart.

And do it for their sake. For the people in your life. Let his love fall on you so
yours can fall on them.

Excerpted from A Love Worth Giving by Max Lucado

By Grace we have been Saved

By Grace we have been saved:

How many how read in the Bible, “By Grace we have been saved….”? I’m sure all of us have at one time or another…so why is it so hard to believe? I had gotten a book from the library a couple days ago called, “Grace” by Max Lucado. I loved it so much that I read it in 2 days!!! While reading it, I was utterly astounded about how much God gives us Grace  in abundance!!!

 So, what does Grace mean? Maybe there was a time that you can think of that you showed grace to someone...or vice versa, they showed Grace to you!

When us kids were little, and we'd get in trouble from arguing or some other things, we'd have a "Job Jar". You would stick your hand in the job jar and pick out a piece of paper. Sometimes the paper would say, "Clean the Stove top", and sometimes it would say some other things. There was 2 slips of paper in there that said, "Grace", which meant that you didn't have to do a job jar chore, because mom and dad decided to give you grace. I looked up in the Webster's 1828 Dictionary what "Grace" means...here is what I found...

•  The application of Christ's righteousness to the sinner.

          Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. Rom.5.

• Favor; mercy; pardon. Privilege.

1. Psalm 45:2
   You are fairer than the sons of men; Grace is poured upon Your lips; Therefore God has blessed You forever.
2. Psalm 84:11
   For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
   
   Ephesians 2:8-9
   
   For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
   
   

Learning Self-Control!

Yesterday, we had some friends over after church. While us older kids were playing games and having fun, I couldn't help but notice how the this family's relationship with each other was loving! It wasn't "pretending" to love each other...it WAS loving each other.

So...why do I have such a hard time loving my siblings? I'm a mess! I'm trying so hard to control my anger in the messy times, or talk in a low tone when I feel like yelling...but...I can't! I try to, but that's the thing...I don't try hard enough. What I'm doing ISN'T enough! It's not enough to say "I'm going to have self-control from now on", but you have to practice it as well. The other day, my brother Elijah was so busy playing
that he "forgot" to go potty....as he puts it, and, well...his pants were soaked! Yes, I have to admit
that I yelled at him for doing such a thing. Thankfully Elijah doesn't hold grudges, so after
 he sat on the potty for a little bit, and got dressed again, I went over
to him and gave him a hug.

I think I have such a hard time with my anger, because I don't ask for help from God! I'm sure that God's probably laughing saying, "Oh, Caitlin! I put your siblings in your life to teach you how to control your anger." I know, I know...we are ALL sinners! But does that mean that we
 shouldn't "try" to be loving?

Yesterday in church, my mom stayed home, so I was in charge of taking care of my 2 younger siblings, and keeping an eye on them.  Elijah has a tendency to play really loud in church with his cars or some other toys...so we have to constantly tell him to "be quiet" in church, and to be respectful. So, I thought this was a good was to practice my "Self-Control" while in church. So, I asked Elijah to come to me, and I whispered in his ear, "Buddy, you have to quiet down a little bit, okay?" With a smile he said, "Okay." ...that could have turned out a lot worse...don't you think? I could have kicked him and put my finger over my mouth to "shh" him...but he probably would have thrown a fit. I felt so calm afterwords. So later last night, I prayed to God. I prayed that he would help me to "control" my temper when it comes; and then when it does come, that God would help me to overcome it, and that there will be peace throughout the house! After all...it starts
with just one person! : )

 ^"...Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity. He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor,performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need. Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification ^[v]according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor
and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God
in Christ also has forgiven you."
~Ephesians 4:26-32~

Gold

Since my brothers and dad are hunting for the next few days, we girls decided to watch girl movies, and movies that my brother’s don’t like because it’s too low of a quality for them. : )

Yesterday, my sister and I watched, “Hinds Feet on High Places”, put on my Compass International. It’s one of those movies that the acting isn't that great, but the point to the movie is great!!! While watching this, I saw my life in that movie! I saw myself going through the desert of loneliness, and the wilderness of darkness. I was in that same position that “Much-Afraid” was in! And of course, I started to cry! One of the songs, stuck out to me though... When Much Afraid was climbing the steep rock, the Shepherd, and her 2 companions were helping her to keep her footing. While they were climbing this steep rock, a song came on called, “I think I see Gold”…I started to cry as I listened to the words of the song. I thought I’d share it with ya’ll! But please don’t think of it as a song that I like, but as a testimony that God will be with you, and that he is still working on you!!! I think the video presents the verses as well as the lyrics and the song that so easily reminds us that God is with us no matter what!!!

A Day to Remember!

This day 2 years ago, was the day that we adopted our little Elijah! I was thinking about it all a last night, and I cried. I cried because, I don’t know where we would be without him! He has brought so much joy to all of us, that it’s hard to stay mad at him for long! I know I've told this story before, but I want to tell it again! Sorry If the sentence structure isn't correct!

When Elijah was turning 3, he asked for guns for his birthday…and of course, with guns come “good guy-bad guy”…so, I told him that I’d be the bad guy. He started shooting me, so naturally, I fell down with a big thud. He ran over to me and said, “Cait-win, I’m sorry! I didn't mean it!” 

     I then said, “I’m gonna’ die. You killed me.”

      He grabbed my head and said, “But you can’t die!!!” 

     “Why?”

     “Because I love you! You’re my best friend!!!” 

And with that, I got up and gave him a hug.

Many of you may not know his adoption story, but when we were trying to adopt, we originally wanted a girl…when we got the call for Elijah…we couldn't resist saying no!!! We have been so blessed by him, and we hope to encourage others to adopt or look after the Orphan and Widow like the Bible tells us to do in James 1:27.

On this day, not only does our family remember the adoption of our little Elijah; but we remember God’s faithfulness, Sovereignty, and love as we go about our day. God's faithfulness to us as He was faithful to answer our prayers to keep little Elijah! God's Sovereignty  to know that no matter the situation, that God is STILL on the throne! And God's love...the love that He instilled in our hearts and minds. The love that he gave us to love others!
Thank you God for our little Elijah!!!

"Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress..."

~James 1:27~

Yet another death...

Today, as I was sitting in the car before going into Wal*Mart, I was listening to the radio, and the DJ said, "Some days we get so caught up in life with taking our kids places, or doing school, activities, and other various things, that we forget to Thank God for the day. Sometimes we forget to pray, read the Bible, or look at the beauty of the trees/sky/sun around us." Isn't this so true?

Today, I found out that Shannon Sproul (R.C. Sproul Jr.'s daughter) died. They don't know the cause yet. Many of you know that R.C. Sproul Jr. suffered the loss of his wife a few months ago to cancer...and now today, his daughter. Let's all be in prayer for the Sproul family!!!

I was thinking about "death", after I heard this news today...and, I am so blessed! I'm blessed to have my grandparents, family, friends all still alive!!! As I said earlier, we forget to thank God for the blessings that we have. We may not think about it, but look around you...maybe it's a church that you go to, that you have been blessed by; or maybe it's family/friends who helped you through some things in your life. Whatever it may be...thank God for it!!!

Let's be in prayer for the Sproul family as they struggle through this rough time in their life...and yet know, that with death, comes heaven for believers of Jesus Christ!

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

~James 1:2-4~

Contentment

Contentment...it's a strong word, yet very simple.

This last Thursday, my mom took my brother to "Credo"...on this day, I stayed home with my younger 2 siblings, and...it was quiet! More than that, I got to rest.
Recently, I have been teaching piano so often, babysitting so much, cooking more, and taking over cleaning the house more, that I felt so...content! It used to be that I'd maybe have a few piano students here and there show up, and occasionally I'd have a few babysitting jobs; but I had so much time before, that I would often let my mind wander away from other things, or be almost bored, that I would just kind of wander around the house. I enjoy being busy!!! A few months ago,  my dad approached me, telling me that I needed to get more students. So, I prayed to God, and I told him that I did all that I could...He was going to have to do the rest. Now, one by one, little by little, I have gotten 5 more students over the past month!!! God answered my prayer! So now, I'm so busy that if I do get a day when people are sick, or the lesson is canceled...I'm almost thankful! Thankful that I have time to relax, but not get bored. Thankful that God gave me the gift and ability to teach piano as well as play piano.

So, what does Paul say about Contentment? I'm sure we all know the verse,
but hey, you never know!
"Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content..."
~ Philippians 4:11~

"But Godliness with contentment, is great gain."
~1st Timothy 6:6~

So the next time that you feel dis-content...remember, that that's the time when the devil likes to harm you the most. I always love what my great Aunt Pear, whom is 103 yrs. said, "Idle hands, are the devils playground." Hang on to those words! Know that it's in those desperate times, that Satan can play with your mind. Be content! Serve your family and friends around you; and know that God is your contentment! 

Dealing with pain

On Monday afternoon, (yesterday) I was on my way home from picking my siblings up from piano lessons. We were all talking pretty much at once, and all of the sudden, everyone stopped talking! For there, right in front of the street that we turn on before our street, were 2 fire trucks, 1 ambulance, and about 3 police cars...I quickly turned around, to go the other way to our house...since the police officers and fire trucks were blocking the street that I was on.

We were all curious, because this particular neighbor, was known for having a dog, that didn't get along with our dog, and this neighbor was also know for...being an alcoholic (on rare occasions from what we know)...so naturally, we assumed some bad things about him because of his background. It wasn't until later that we found out what had really happened...
His wife died! 

She had apparently come home, said that she was tired, and didn't wake back up.

I felt ashamed! Thinking such awful things about this man! I should have known better! Why do us Christians, have a tendency to think the worst about some people?!...admit it...we've all
done it before! I prayed to God to forgive me, but not only to forgive me, but to give
our neighbor, comfort in this time!!!
He didn't even get to say goodbye to his wife!
I couldn't stop thinking about it last night...I am so blessed to have my family!
I pray that God will be merciful to this man, and that he will find beauty in the valley!

BEAUTY IN THE VALLEY

Paul Marino / Sarah Schieber

I've been through empty days

Walked in loves darkest place

Been all alone in a life meant for two

I've lost my will to fight. I 'd

Wrestled through sleepless nights

Awoken to hurts so broken and bruised

Yet through all of the tears the questions and fears

I stand here able to say

I found beauty in the valley

Hope in the rain

Peace in the unknown

Strength in the pain

With His hand holding me

I found beauty in the valley

If you’re barely hanging on

And wonder where God has gone

And you feel betrayed by life and your faith

It may take some time and seem like for ever

But someday you'll look back and say

I found beauty in the valley

Hope in the rain

Peace in the unknown

Strength in the pain

With His hand holding me

I found beauty in the valley

Serving in Disguise

Yesterday, I had the privilege to go to our friends the, "Davidson's" house, and help them out
with the kids, laundry, dinner, and packing for their trip to Russia. 

     While I was helping the kids clean out the closet, Mrs. Davidson asked me to feed baby "Owen", so that she could get some stuff done. With joy, I took him out of the swing, and fed him his bottle. After feeding him, I went into the girls room to help them clean out the closet, and I lay Owen down on my lap facing sideways...he was so content! As usual, I stared at Owen thinking, "Wow! How can people not like children?" They are so precious...aren't they?!

     As I was sitting there with Owen on my lap, I helped the girls fold their tights, and other miscellaneous things. After that, I rocked Owen to sleep, and vacuumed around the house. When I got home, I was greeted by my little brother, Elijah, who comes out ever time one of us comes home. There's always a welcoming smile on his face, and a big, warm bear hug awaiting us from our little Elijah. Isn't it nice to come to a place that you can call home?

After a long, hard day from working at the Davidson's, (which I appreciated) I kept thinking, "all that I'm doing at home, at the Davidson's, and any where else, is teaching me...teaching me to be patient, teaching me to be slow in anger, and slow to speak, teaching me to 'serve', and teaching me
 to love God even more."

Last week, I was having a hard time doing some stuff around the house, and I've been asking God to help me serve without thinking about it. Whether it's doing my siblings dishes on their dish day, doing  their chore for that week, or merely putting their shoes away that are in the middle of the floor. They might not notice me doing anything...but God does! He sees everything that we do...whether it's with a servants heart or not. So let's serve, knowing that our reward is in heaven! 

Guest Galore!

This last week, we had some unexpected yet expected guest stay at our house. They brought their 3 children for my mom to watch one of the days. Our friends the "Crawfurds" used to go to our church, but when they moved to Estes Park it was to long of a drive for them, so they come for a day or two and stay at our house every once in a wile...whether it's to get hay for their goats, or do
some other various errands down here.
While they were gone though, it was my job to keep on eye on their kids, plus ours. Samaiah is 8 yrs. Elijah is 7, and Malachi is 3...they were all adopted.
When you put their kids, and our "Elijah" together...it doesn't always work. It seemed like if we had turned our eye from them for just 2 minutes, someone was pushing someone, or so-and-so was wrestling this person or that person...it was like this pretty much the entire time they were here. So, everything was always getting messy, no matter how many times you cleaned it!
So...for me, I learned a LOT of Patience!
I then started thinking, "What if God came to our house?" Would we care what our house looked like, or what we ourselves were wearing?...I think so. We would want to wear our very best. But some of us have to realize, that although we put on an act and say, "I'm fine", God can see right through us. So, if we were told that Christ was going to be coming to our house in 1 hour...what would you do? You'd probably run around the house trying to make everything clean and "perfect" for when Christ comes. However, when Christ comes walking through that door, are you going to be a Mary, or a Martha? Are you going to sit down and listen to Jesus talk, or are you going to run around the house and see what else needs to be done? That's how it is, isn't it? Sometimes, we have unexpected guest come to our house, and the house may
look a mess, Bathrooms dirty, bed's not made...etc...
I heard in a book once, that we call a mess in our kitchen, is more than a poor man will ever know. What we call a messy house, a poor man will call a castle; and what we might call a messy, dirty, yucky bathroom, a poor man will call it home.
So...I'm not saying that you shouldn't clean...especially knowing that you have guest coming. I'm saying that when we have guest come...open your home knowing
that they're going to be grateful any how. : )

A Day to Remember

Today, September 11th 2012, marks the 11th anniversary of the day that no one would forget. The day that "the twin towers" in New York City, fell. I'm not normally a country singer type of person, but my dad showed me this video a few years ago, and I thought I'd share it with ya'll in remembrance of those that died on this day 11 years ago. This song is called, "Where were you when the world stopped turning", by Alan Jackson. Please watch!

God's not finished with you!

The other day, I had a "me" time...and I went around town looking at different stores for some sandals to wear for church. As I walked out of Kohl's, finding nothing to purchase, I saw an older woman...she looked to be in her mid 60's...any way, I saw her wobble out of her car, and walk towards the doors. I held the door open for her to pass, seeing that she needed help. As she passed me she said, "Thank you very much!
That doesn't happen very often!"

It made me smile! : ) I told her, "My pleasure!!!"
Isn't that how today's world is? We don't respect our elders any more. We don't honor the war heroes as much as we should, we don't respect that
the "older" people need help. I went to a "ladies iced coffee" event that our church put on yesterday. Becky Morecraft spoke, and she told us that she found out her friend had died a few days ago. She told us that her friend had survived cancer 3 times, by the age of 21. As you hear everyone saying, "wow!" She then goes to tell that this friend of hers, in order to save her life from cancer...they had to amputate her arms and legs. However, she didn't look at is as, "I can't do anything", but she looked at it more as, "I am still on this earth, so God must not be done with me yet." Her husband loved her for who she was, not what she looked like. So, yes, she did die, but her friends and family look at is as, "God finished his
plan with her. She did what God called her to do."

So...I know I bounced from one story to another, but I have 2 points.
First...respect and honor those older than yourself.
Secondly...know that if your're here on this earth...God's is NOT finished
with you yet!!!

Finally Back!

Hello all!
Wow! I have had quite a week!

I have been babysitting a family in our church who just had their 9th child, so I went over and spent the night there from Tuesday-Friday.

I got to learn so much about how they run the house, do school, chores...etc... (don't worry...I got lots of rest time too ; ) )

On top of that it's our church potluck tomorrow after church...so that's a batch of brownies, and meatballs. And then after church, I have to come home and make 70+ Banana Bread/Muffins for a conference that our pastor's putting on at his house, and then on Monday morning bright and early I go to help with the meals for the conference...after that, because it's labor Day...our church is having a big get together, so...you guessed it!...more desert to make ; )

These are the days that I actually like! I don't mind being so busy and occupied that you can't think of anything else to do...if that makes sense.

After this week, do I get to take a rest...probably not! Life keeps happening! You know the saying, "I've got things to do, places to go, and people to see"? Well, that's how I am right now...at least that's what I feel like.

So...earlier this evening, I sat in my bed and I prayed to God. I thanked him for the busyness of my day, but I also prayed that God will help me to put him first above everything else in this world...yes, even in the chaotic times!!!
...Have you ever felt this way? Felt like your whole life was so busy that you didn't even have time to pray for 5 minutes, or do your Bible Study that day? I have!!! Especially recently; I want to do other things, and then it puts the "things" in front of God! So, maybe in the chaotic times...pray to God, ask him to give you the time. Let him know how you feel...he listens and cares!

In our family, all of us notice that if we don't do family worship consistently...all of us are more grumpy, irritable, and stressed! So, when you feel this way, I would suggest that you pray...wherever you are, and whomever your with. Pray to God in this world of Chaos...He's listening and is right there with you! : )

Opinion

Hi all, before I started writing on my blog again, I thought i should ask your opinion on something. I have heard a lot of different opinions on how often you should write on your blog. Some people say not that often to give the readers a chance to read what you've written. And others say to write very often so that you can get more readers
interested in what you've written...

so, what do you think I should do? Should I write like 3 times a week? Every other day? once a week? Let me know, and I'll try to please everyone... : )

The 11th Anniversary

Today marks the day that my dear little sister, "Grace Elizabeth Baughman" would have had her 11th birthday.

For those of you who don't know the story or don't remember, I'll tell you.
The Beginning...
It was a crisp fall morning from what I remember....
I had just woken up, and my cousin was still sleeping. (my cousins came with my grandparents to visit us...my cousins parents would be coming later the next day)
Since my cousin was still sleeping, and knowing how long she sleeps, I went out to the living room....there I saw my Grandma...crying...with her hands on her head. I didn't think I should interrupt her, so I went back to my room. My cousin had just
woken up, and was rubbing her eyes.
My Grandma walks in the room then, her eyes, swollen from crying. She says, "Caitlin...your mom went to the hospital this morning...Grace died." I held the tears back as it stung me. I had prayed to God for a little sister, and now, I didn't have one! "God...what are you doing???"
I asked inside myself.

Grace Elizabeth Baughman was a still born at 8 months pregnancy. She was sick, and my parents didn't know it. My mom felt something was wrong, and so my dad rushed her to the hospital. My mom got to hold Grace for a few minutes before she
was taken away with one of the nurses.

My mom came home a few days later; eyes swollen from crying so much.
She had carried little Grace for 8 months, and now...she was confused.

The Funeral was that Saturday. Our family and friends flew out to visit us in our distress, and for the funeral. I had worn a light green dress with flowers on it. I was
only 9 years old at the time, and I as well was confused.

As the weeks flew by, my mom and dad still hadn't healed. We had wonderful friends watch us kids, which at the time was Corey,(11) me,(9) Ethan,(6) and Austin. (2)
I was enjoying my time with my friends, and didn't realize what a hard time my
mom was having recovering from this loss.

That Thanksgiving, we were at our usual family reunion, which was in California at the time. We were at my Aunt Rebecca and Uncle Danny's house. We were celebrating my grandma's birthday, which wasn't for another few weeks, but we celebrated it any way. My Grandma opened her card, and tears filled her eyes. She stood up, and gave my parents a hug saying, "Congratulations!!!" I was totally confused...what was in the card? "What did it say?" I asked. My dad said, "Mommies going to have another baby!!!" Wow!!! Unbelievable!!! God had answered my prayer!!!

On June 11th...Joy Elianna Baughman was born, weighing 4 Ibs. and 5 Onces. She had a cleft lip, a hole in the roof of her mouth, and was not breathing...UNTIL...my dad said, "Joy! Joy, stay with us sweety!" And she started breathing. She was in the NICU for a week, and with a few surgeries a few months after she was born...she
was a normal little girl! God had answered my prayer!

So...my mom and dad named "Grace" Grace because God blessed us with her, which is what her name meant...we named "Joy" Joy, because God gave us yet another blessing of Joy!!! "Where Grace abounds, Joy Prevails" is what my mom named her Journal.
Our family went through a long journey, but going through this journey has caused my parents to KNOW that God is SOVEREIGN!!! And Ruler over all!
Tonight, my mom is taking an art class...she cried because, she feels like, even though the pain is still there, that she can finally start over. She can enjoy her life as it passes her by, and going through life she is learning that God is in control, and that
he has a perfect plan for everything!!!

...So, that's the story of my sister, "Grace Elizabeth Baughman"...
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to HIS purpose."
~Romans 8:28~

God, give me the Strength to Stand!

Recently, a friend of mine told me some things that she needed prayer for. I felt so special, to know that she trusted me by telling me her hurts and pains.
Sometimes in life, all we need is a shoulder to cry on, or someone to tell us that it's going to be okay. We need the strength to stand, and sometimes, God gives us friends to show us just that. God is our ultimate Strength!

So, when we need strength...where do we go to? Whom do we turn to?
My siblings this past week, have had this dry cough. For my 14 year old brother, Austin, it's not as big of a deal, but for my 4 year old brother, Elijah, he coughs so much at night that he can't breath, which scares him, so he cries...keeping specifically my parents up all night! So in the morning, my parents need Gods strength to get through the day. They can't make it without Him.

When we are most desperate, we cry out to God, and God strengthens us to get back up again and stand. So, maybe you have a friend whose struggling. Maybe their struggling to put food on the table, maybe their struggling financially, or maybe their struggling in some other way. Whatever they are struggling in, offer to pray for them, and see if there's anything else you can help with; whether it's cooking for them, offering to watch their kids for the day, (whether you feel like it or not) or something else. Show a little encouragement to them, and let God use you to give them the Strength to stand! And the next time you feel weak, pray to God,
"God, give me the Strength to Stand!"

Have you ever had one of those days when your life was so chaotic, and you're so grumpy, and yet when you go to the store you go with a smile on your face any way and you say, "Everything's fine!" ?

I had done that recently...I was babysitting for some friends of ours, and when I came home that day, I was...grumpy. I yelled at everyone in my way, and didn't care what they thought. It wasn't until later that day that I was convicted in my heart what I had done that day.

Life is like that, isn't it? We hate it when people treat us badly, so why do we turn around and do the same thing? I found this poem online, and I thought it fit
perfectly to what I'm talking about. Enjoy!

Family

Author: Unknown

I ran into a stranger as he passed by,
"Oh excuse me please" was my reply.
He said, "Please excuse me too;
I wasn't watching for you."
We were very polite, this stranger and I.
We went on our way and we said good-bye.
But at home a different story is told,
How we treat our loved ones, young and old.
Later that day, cooking the evening meal,
My son stood beside me very still.
When I turned, I nearly knocked him down.
"Move out of the way," I said with a frown.
He walked away, his little heart broken.
I didn't realize how harshly I'd spoken.
While I lay awake in bed,
God's still small voice came to me and said,
"While dealing with a stranger,
common courtesy you use,
But the family you love, you seem to abuse.
Go and look on the kitchen floor,
You'll find some flowers there by the door.
Those are the flowers he brought for you.
He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue.
He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise,
You never saw the tears that filled his little eyes."
By this time, I felt very small,
And now my tears began to fall.
I quietly went and knelt by his bed;
"Wake up, little one, wake up," I said.
"Are these the flowers you picked for me?"
He smiled, "I found them, out by the tree.
I picked them because they're pretty like you.
I knew you'd like them, especially the blue."
I said, "Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today;
I shouldn't have yelled at you that way."
He said, "Oh, Mom, that's okay.
I love you anyway."
I said, "Son, I love you too,
and I do like the flowers, especially the blue."

Listening in the Quietness of the Desert

Have you ever gone through a trial so bad, that you felt like you were in a deep, dark hole without a way to get out or knowing which way was out? I have! My parents have! Maybe you're having a hard time finding a job, or trying to figure out what to do with each child you have. Maybe you're experiencing something so big, and so dramatic, that you don't think it will ever be over.

I remember watching this movie we have called, "Hinds Feet on High Places". It's one of those low quality films, but it's just enough to make you cry. I'm sure many of you know how the story goes, and if you don't, I encourage you to find out! Any way, "Much Afraid" is at one time in the desert, lonely, and trying to figure out the "Shephards" (God's) plan for her. It is at this time that her two companions help her to trust God. When "Much Afraid" goes through the wilderness, it's dark, cloudy and stormy, and it's through this storm that she learns that God is always with her.
When we go through trials in our life, as hard as it is, we need to understand that God has a plan out of that trial. We may not see it at the time, but God does!
The next time your in the desert or wilderness...STOP! LISTEN! It's in this desperate time that you hear God's powerful voice!

Ginny Owens wrote a song called, "If you want me to", and I thought it was perfect to share with ya'll. The song is beautiful as well!

"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
(James 1:2-4) (NASB)

If You Want Me To:
The pathway is broken and the signs are unclear
And I don't know the reason why You brought me here.
But just because You love me the way that You do
I'm gonna walk through the valley if You want me to

'Cause I'm not who I was when I took my first step; And
I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet. So if all of these
trials bring me closer to You, then I will go through the fire if You want me to.

It may not be the way I would have chosen, when You lead me through
a world that's not my home. But You never said it would be easy,
You only said I'd never go alone.

So when the whole world turns against me, and I'm all by myself; And I can't hear You answer my cries for help. I'll remember the suffering, Your love put You through, And I will go
through the darkness if You want me to.

When I cross over Jordan, I'm gonna sing, gonna shout! I'm gonna look into Your eyes and see, You never let me down. So take me on the pathway that will lead me home to You, And I will
walk through the valley if You want me to; Yes, I will walk through the valley
if You want me to

Are you truly Blessed?

Today’s big question: are you truly blessed?

Happiness is something most people want. In fact, I think we have read somewhere that everyone has the right to the pursuit of happiness, but what is true happiness?

Our verse today is the first of the Beatitudes. The word “beatitude” is from the Latin rootbeatus, which means blessed or happy. As you read through these statements of Jesus from His great sermon, you will notice each one starts with the word “blessed,” or in some translations the word is “happy.” Yet there is a much deeper meaning to the meaning of this word than just a favorable feeling. This term actually conveys the idea of fulfillment and complete satisfaction.

The island of Cyprus has been called the “Blessed Isle,” because it was thought to have everything necessary for life contained within its small coastline perimeter. It was self-contained and filled. This is really the meaning of what true blessedness is in respect of the Beatitudes. This blessedness speaks of the actual realization of a true satisfaction and fulfilled joy.

Jesus is never surface deep. The happiness of knowing Him is not like the happiness I feel when I receive a piece of birthday cake. In knowing Jesus, I am completely fulfilled in my life, and there is nothing else that I need. My salvation, eternity, and sanctification are to His glory, and I cannot think of any greater desire. When we come to know Jesus Christ, we come to know true satisfaction in life. Nothing else in this whole world can satisfy—not riches, fame, power, or even my own beloved earthly family.

My satisfaction and joy is only found in Christ and His Cross. There is no one else in whom I can know there is complete victory. No one else has taken the judgment I deserve and paid for my sins. There is none other in whom is found true and everlasting kingship, and there is no one else who is all-encompassing and possesses everlasting mercy, grace, and love.
Only Jesus.

Are you blessed? If so, you will be able to relate to the satisfaction found in the contemplation and realization of the Beatitudes. As my mother would say, “It will bless your socks off.”

Today’s big idea: blessing is more than a happy outcome—it is a complete and
satisfying joy in our Savior.

(Excerpt from Answers in Genesis articles)

Rodeo Queens and...

Many of you may not agree with me on this issue, but I feel like it has to be discussed. Last night, our family went to the "free" day Rodeo at our local fairgrounds. Before it all started, there were, "Rodeo Queens" that were elected and chosen before judges. There were about 12 girls between the ages of maybe 14 and 18. They wore shiny, glittery shirts, cowboy boots and hats, tight jeans, curled up hair and a fabric symbol across their chest saying,
"Rodeo Queen"and some other things.

That's how today's culture is...isn't it?

We flaunt our bodies as if it were some fashion show; and make our body shape stand out. We've lost the term "modest". There is no such thing any more to this culture. What they call modest, is basically besides the under garments, a shirt and short...not realizing how tight things can be can really draw
attention to themselves.

I once heard a story about a professor...he was teaching classes, and there was this one young woman that stood out. She wore tight clothing, low cut shirts, and flaunted her body everywhere she went. The professor was drawn into it, but knew that it was sin especially since he was married and had kids waiting for him at home. He told his wife about his issue. His wife thanked him for being honest, and she asked him what he was going to do about it. Well, the next week, he met with the board of directors, and they got together with this young woman. They told her about the professors struggle, and she immediately burst into tears. You see...she didn't know that it was a sin to be dressing like that. She didn't realize that the way she walked, talked, and dressed was tempting this young man. So, the next day when she came to class, she dressed in loose clothing, that covered up everything. She soon became a Christian after that.

Some women don't know how to dress. Some ignore it, and some don't even know what's right and wrong. Regardless, the Bible tells us..."Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly..."
(1st Timothy 2:9)

So, I'm NOT saying that you can't wear, this or that, and that you have to dress this way and that way...but I am saying that we need to be careful with our thought process behind our clothing. Are we dressing the way we do to draw a certain attention to ourselves? Are we even thinking that some of the things we wear, make other people stumble? I don't want anyone to get across me wrong, and to think me very judgmental, but I would suggest maybe asking yourselves, or better yet, your brother/dad/husband/sister/mom what they think about your clothing. There may be nothing wrong with your clothing or
how you dress, but I would at least discuss it with them.
Who knows, you just may be surprised.

The Battle for Purity

The Battle for Purity

July 31st, 2012

Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal,“The Lord knows those who are His,”and,"Everyone who names the name of the Lord is
to abstain from wickedness.”

(2nd Timothy 2:19)

One of Paul's major messages to his young disciple Timothy was to
strive for purity in every area of his life. Compromise and impurity were
not to be glossed over; they were to be vigorously opposed.

In today's culture, there are all kinds of "temptations" which cause us to conflict with purity. Our hearts, and minds no longer stay pure. Whether we are at the store, on a walk, or else where, there are temptations everywhere.

1st Peter 5:8-9, "Be sober-minded: be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world."

So, what do I mean when I say, "Purity"? Well, lots of different things...whatever tempts you specifically. It could be, watching a movie when no one's looking, or eating a specific food when you know that you're not suppose to have it, or it could be much more than that!!! So, how do we stay pure? The Bible says in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise,
dwell on these things."

So, let's think on these things, because we have a battle on our hands!!! But with this battle, God will ALWAYS provide a way of escape...

"No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it."

(1st Corinthians 10:13)