tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-203448732011-04-21T12:35:01.575-07:00"In the small circle of home she has never quite forgotten the particular uniqueness of each member of the family; the sponteneity of now; the vividness of here." - Anne Morrow LindberghLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.comBlogger2301100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1162096210599609622006-10-28T21:25:00.000-07:002006-10-28T21:30:16.290-07:00

Dear Blogger,I hate to do this to you, and I hope we can still be friends, but I think it's time we went our own ways. I've been thinking about this for a while and every time you let me down when I need you most, I reconsider the options I have.I only have a small amount of time when I sit down to take advantage of what you offer me. I've been grateful. Truly, I have. But, in those few, rare

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1162091324181499072006-10-28T20:06:00.000-07:002006-10-28T21:24:54.483-07:00

I'm all packed up and headed over to my new blog...If you're looking for me, you can find me here:(www.quiethereandnow.wordpress.com)

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161956418990760892006-10-27T06:39:00.000-07:002006-10-27T06:40:25.260-07:00

As I continue to read Kathleen Norris' Amazing Grace, I am soaking up a little bit from each chapter - each one has a sentence or paragraph that totally stands out to me and is resonating somewhere deep inside...."But they [the Israelites being led out of Egypt], as any of us might, began longing for the devil they knew, rather than face the unknown road ahead." – Norris on salvation How often I

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161763022569545312006-10-25T00:45:00.000-07:002006-10-25T00:57:59.763-07:00

Ok, so it's not really TiVo, it's the local cable company's version of it called the DVR box, but it rocks.I couldn't keep my eyes open past 8 p.m. last night and I missed several good shows I might have normally tried to watch. So, what's a girl to do at 3 a.m. when she can no longer sleep? Turn to her trusty DVR, that's what.

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161707859922566392006-10-24T09:28:00.000-07:002006-10-24T09:37:41.016-07:00

Watching my husband grow as a father has been such a joy. He's been a bit of a pro from the start, but as Lou grows up, so we must also grow and learn. Just when we have one stage of parenting down, she morphs into a toddler that stands frozen in the doorway screaming and crying for no apparent reason.WonderMan takes care of our after-dinner, bathtime routine about 99.9% of the time. It started

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161659183613428812006-10-23T19:11:00.000-07:002006-10-23T20:06:24.083-07:00

I'm thinking too much lately. It's starting to get on my nerves. The thoughts simmer in my brain until they reach a boil and start pouring over into everything else.It's also possible that I have too much time on my hands these days, which is weird for one moving across the country, 32 weeks pregnant and raising a fiesty toddler. In my defense, I'm only getting four hours of sleep each night (

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161609626987048722006-10-23T05:56:00.000-07:002006-10-23T11:13:11.163-07:00

I've been posting just the responses for the last few days because I was so behind on posting at all. The thing about living in the "here and now" is that there are times when the "here and now" doesn't allow you to do everything on your list. In fact, that's how it is most days. My to-do list is never completely checked off. So priorities have to be shifted regularly and sometimes this blog is

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161607964506710342006-10-23T05:48:00.001-07:002006-10-23T05:52:48.476-07:00

Yay! I had the chance to do this just yesterday! Poor WonderMan is overwhelmed. His new job is more paperwork than he expected, which means it's costing him more time than he expected. Couple that with a heavy class load for his degree he's working toward, plus his second job of teaching online and he's at his end most days and I don't blame him.I hope I was a good enough cheerleader yesterday. I

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161607647175926622006-10-22T05:35:00.000-07:002006-10-23T05:47:53.993-07:00

This is one of those hard challenges. Not so much because it's hard to find positive things to say about my husband, but because if frustrated, tired or in need of placing blame, it's easy to say negative things. I think the negative things I say usually follow along the lines of rolling my eyes in front of my sisters or close friends if he does something that goes against how I would do it and

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161606796671731662006-10-21T05:28:00.000-07:002006-10-23T05:55:10.206-07:00

I keep reading these challenges and feeling challenged. Not so much in a "find this characteristic in your husband, even if you have to look really hard" way, but in a "am I this type of person to my husband way".This challenge comes easily as I am the spender in our relationship. And it's not so much that he's a hoarder or saver, as much as he is a planner. A frugal, thoughtful consumer. With

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161606476044560512006-10-20T05:25:00.000-07:002006-10-23T05:56:30.006-07:00

Well since I don't make any mistakes, this challenge isn't really applicable and all.Ha!If you were to ask my husband though, that might what he'd tell you. He has the shortest memory in the world when it comes to offenses. He actually humbles me in the way he extends grace and forgiveness to people, especially to me. He has a very compassionate and understanding heart and lets go of resentment

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161606253518653992006-10-19T05:20:00.000-07:002006-10-23T05:54:25.246-07:00

WonderMan is the tall, dark and handsome type for sure. In fact, before he'd ever said a word or I first saw his smile, the day we first met, I was all twitterpated. Then he smiled and it sealed the deal for me. He looks just like you'd imagine a superhero to look (minus the cape and all...).You had me before "hello", baby!

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161193764611831642006-10-18T10:49:00.000-07:002006-10-18T10:49:27.286-07:00

Anonymous,I did a little web surfing and came up with a few websites that have articles and books and I even have a blog or two to send your way!!When He Doesn’t BelieveRelating To An Unsaved SpouseFocus on the Family booklet – Living With An Unsaved SpouseGrace to You (John MacArthur) – How To Win Your Unbelieving SpouseHolly at Seeking Faithfulness mentioned a site earlier this week called

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161605980285871242006-10-18T05:15:00.000-07:002006-10-23T05:19:40.386-07:00

Does my husband have a playful side? Please. I think that's the only side he has. Of course his playfulness comes with wisdom and love and all that, but playfulness, he has down. In a very childlike, non-obnoxious sort of way. When he laughs, about anything, I can't help but laugh too. His laugh is very contagious. And all this playfulness makes for a really fun daddy for our kids. He has Lou in

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160786412465870292006-10-17T17:38:00.000-07:002006-10-17T06:41:09.036-07:00

I found this website today when I was looking up random things about Christmas. It shares Christmas traditions of cultures around the world. It's an interesting read and would be fun to implement some of the traditions practiced around the world here at home one year for a great lesson in world culture. Though you won't find us trying the Yugoslavian tradition of tying the parents' feet to a

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161094956898814332006-10-17T06:54:00.000-07:002006-10-17T07:30:18.293-07:00

"Is your mind on what you're doing or what you're going to do?" - Barbara Curtis, the Mommy Manual I'm re-reading my copy of the Mommy Manual because as Lou's getting older, it's all starting to be more applicable. The quote above was in reference to slowing down our actions as we carry on through the day because our little ones are watching us and working to copy everything we do. As adults,

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161090374904291342006-10-17T05:39:00.000-07:002006-10-17T06:07:07.316-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." Prov. 9:10Are you a wise woman? Do you open your mouth with wisdom, as Proverbs 31:26 suggests? As you continue in your 30-day challenge, remember that a wise woman encourages her husband.Is your husband a "wise man?" Does he

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161605676273775402006-10-17T05:12:00.001-07:002006-10-23T05:14:37.186-07:00

Finally! He gets some homework!!This is a conversation we haven't really had before, but I asked him and he said he hadn't considered the vision he has for our family and home in a way that he could put it into a conversation or statement so he said it's something he'll be thinking about!

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161088485098507952006-10-17T05:12:00.000-07:002006-10-17T05:47:31.170-07:00

Well according to the comments in the Day 16 challenge, my husband would have you believe he grunts. I believe, if he grunts at all, it is only in an effort to get a word into my constant rambling. A grunt is about all I afford him sometimes. Interrupting, talking over him and assuming what his response will be (and telling him that part too) all negate his desire or ability to communicate with

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161000598679786962006-10-16T05:05:00.000-07:002006-10-17T05:42:17.406-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"And the LORD God said, 'It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him." Genesis 2:18God says that it is not good for man to be alone. But the way some women criticize their mates, the husbands may long for solitude. Be careful today not to criticize your mate, but look for ways to

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161002173910923562006-10-15T05:21:00.000-07:002006-10-16T05:36:21.000-07:00

WonderMan has long since questioned the way "church" is done, the way tithing is used and stays within the walls of the church and the surface-bubble-gum type 101 messages preached every Sunday in so many churches we've attended. He grew up in church; those TV broadcast kind and grew up questioning many things about church and God and his place in all of it. He grew up desiring more, wanting to

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161000309498343412006-10-15T05:01:00.000-07:002006-10-16T05:05:09.596-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ..." 2 Pet. 3:18aSometimes we live so close to our spouse that we fail to see him as others do; we only see our husband's faults. But take a step back. Perhaps he is growing spiritually in ways you have failed to appreciate. How can you encourage his

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161001202294179782006-10-14T05:10:00.000-07:002006-10-16T05:40:32.243-07:00

WonderMan is full of integrity in the words he speaks and the promises he makes. If he says he will do something, you can count on the fact that he will do it. Ever since we were dating, he would call me on his way to work, at lunch time and on the way home. Not in a weird, obsessive way, but in a keep-in-touch through our day way. Once we were married, the morning phone call was replaced with a

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1161000065710253832006-10-14T04:56:00.000-07:002006-10-16T05:01:05.806-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"The righteous man walks in his integrity..." Prov. 20:7aEvery week there are news reports about men who gave in to temptations and compromised what they said they believed. We hear countless reports about dishonest business dealings, hidden infidelity and hypocritical leaders. It's so easy to focus on these things and ignore

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160744752212288432006-10-13T05:56:00.000-07:002006-10-13T06:05:52.986-07:00

Since this is such a "between a husband and wife" challenge, I'll be keeping my response to this private. But know that it is a challenge I am praying about and seeking God's heart for as we move slowly out of the newlywed phase of our marriage and into the two kids, two jobs, school and exhaustion phase. Where our thoughts center more on the days' agenda and the to-do list and all we

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160744170500034022006-10-13T05:55:00.000-07:002006-10-16T04:55:57.280-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me." Song of Solomon 7:10The sexual relationship. It's one of those elements - along with money and children - that can derail a marriage through negative comments. Negativity destroys intimacy, but encouragement builds and strengthens the marriage bond.Let's get practical here. Is

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160744120779070722006-10-13T05:42:00.000-07:002006-10-13T07:19:46.346-07:00

Me? Expect too much from someone? Expect someone to meet needs within me only God can meet? Nah. Ah, but it's true. I do it often. I ask it of my husband often and of others around me.Fortunately (or unfortunately as the case may be), I learned this lesson the hard way a few years ago and the moral of the story stuck pretty deep within me. I don't need to go into details, but let's just say I

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160743332338082622006-10-13T05:41:00.000-07:002006-10-16T04:52:02.790-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love." Eph. 4:2Part of the difficulty you may face as you continue in this 30-day challenge to encourage your husband is that you really are struggling to find positive things to praise. Perhaps the problem is not with your husband. Have you

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160743277658903552006-10-13T05:36:00.000-07:002006-10-13T05:41:19.890-07:00

I've not been slacking so much in meeting these challenges head on, but in posting them. I've been busy at home, setting up our home, tending to our home, etc., and well, blogging falls to the background.Anyway, as for D11's challenge and response:I've mentioned before that I'm making an intentional effort to take my eyes off what I am doing (both externally and/or internally) and look my husband

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160571152682836002006-10-11T05:48:00.000-07:002006-10-11T05:52:34.736-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"Wives, submit to our own husbands, as to the Lord." Eph. 5:22Women who are constantly negative toward their hsubands - especially by speaking evil of them to others - show great disrespect. Determine not to do that today (or ever!) This challenge to encourage is closely connected to submission.Men respond to women who respect

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160570793688865502006-10-11T05:33:00.000-07:002006-10-11T05:46:43.660-07:00

When I first met my husband, I was working at my desk when his proud mom was walking him around our office (she and I worked together) introducing him to anyone that hadn't met him - which included me. Goodness gracious, he was good-looking. Tall, dark and handsome. With a smile and sweetness to boot. He had come to take his mom to lunch. What was not to love at first sight?As we started to get

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160447819010618902006-10-10T07:29:00.000-07:002006-10-11T05:54:14.903-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"Behold you are handsome, my beloved! Yes, pleasant!..." Song of Solomon 1:16aWe all crave appreciation. We want to know that we are valued and loved. Early love letters probably reflected our admiration, but if we're not careful, our spouse will forget why we were drawn to him. If you still have any of your old love letters,

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160447368290666652006-10-10T07:21:00.000-07:002006-10-11T05:32:07.100-07:00

Ok, so as I was typing out the challenge for day 9 - you know, not talking so much and listening more - I actually interrupted WonderMan as he was trying to tell me something and spoke over him, telling him what I thought he needed to hear.I talk. A lot. So this challenge in particular is difficult for me. I also don't look him in the eyes a whole lot both while I'm speaking or while he's

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160481109240473852006-10-10T04:51:00.000-07:002006-10-10T04:53:55.640-07:00

I don't remember where I first heard it, but at some point, someone told me that I shouldn't try to maintain a relationship with someone romantically (this was before I was engaged or married - or following Christ) until I could keep a plant alive. Then I could move on to a pet and then a man.The last plants I kept alive were in Hawaii where nothing dies, even if you try

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160446842011495892006-10-09T19:13:00.000-07:002006-10-09T19:21:30.690-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"...be swift to hear, slow to speak..." James 1:19bWe are often so busy speaking that we don't take time to listen. We are so quick to offer a comment - negative or positive - that we don't really "hear" our husband's heart. Remember: we have two ears and only one mouth. We need to listen more!As you continue in your 30-day

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160446408822241152006-10-09T19:08:00.000-07:002006-10-09T19:13:29.286-07:00

We've had this conversation multiple times before about how grateful I am that he chose me and that he continues to choose me in the midst of everything thrown his way. From the internet, tv, random co-workers, etc., he has many, many, many opportunities to seek pleasure or comfort in something or someone else every single day and still he chooses me. He comes home to me, his eyes stay fixed on

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160336053872222402006-10-08T12:26:00.000-07:002006-10-08T12:38:52.220-07:00

I was just told about this Christmas project and I thought I'd pass it on to you, hoping you would blog, email, phone, etc., those you know, to tell them about it too. This company's goal is to get 100,000 books of the Gospel of John (weatherproof, waterproof, plastic pages) to the troops overseas. These must be ordered and paid for by October 25 - that's not very far away. So, if you and/or your

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160144434556929802006-10-08T07:13:00.000-07:002006-10-08T12:25:56.176-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge) "...but who can find a faithful man?" Prov. 20:6b Faithfulness is a wonderful but rare quality today, especially in regard to marriage. Do you understand how important this quality is? Your challenge is to continue to root out all negative speaking, and plant seeds of encouragement instead. You may be amazed at what will

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160146369866893222006-10-08T06:39:00.000-07:002006-10-08T12:24:32.776-07:00

Ooooh. Finances. This has not been a terribly contentious point in our marriage at this point, but it has been a struggle to come together financially. We've been married 2 1/2 years so we're still in that newlywed phase of trying to understand each other financially. Also, I come from a really irresponsible place financially. A spend first, pay bills later (usually late, if at all), don't save

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160144015151270882006-10-07T07:05:00.000-07:002006-10-07T13:35:35.563-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"...Do not overwork to be rich; because of your own understanding, cease!...for riches certainly make themselves wings..." Prov.23:4-5"That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, that I may fill their treasuries." Proverbs 8:21Money is the root of much marital discord. Ask yourself, "Am I being negative toward my

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160145535827366742006-10-07T06:38:00.000-07:002006-10-07T13:34:10.430-07:00

So WonderMan is creative. He can draw pictures that could be sold for serious money. He plays guitar and can paint up a storm. See what he did to Lou's room? and did I mention he is creatively funny? He makes up songs for everything. He was just re-writing the words to the Daniel Cook song (Disney kids show) to appropriately fit how annoyed he is by the show. Hilarious. And...for those of you

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160186236836631772006-10-06T18:56:00.000-07:002006-10-06T19:10:33.113-07:00

Way. Too. Cool. Head here for a sweet, quick video on a really great photo project.Here's an article at Good Magazine on the project.

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160155029460192892006-10-06T10:15:00.000-07:002006-10-06T10:22:55.996-07:00

Y'all have to check this out. My husband, the WonderMan, recently started his own blog. Maybe it's just me and my dedicated adoration for this creative and funny man, but each post has amused me so much and if you have time, you really must check it out.http://www.dailyspiffiness.blogspot.com

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160143280499735612006-10-06T06:54:00.000-07:002006-10-06T07:05:07.150-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"...whatever ye do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Cor. 10:31b Do you recognize and appreciate your husband's creativity? Or do you criticize and demean his efforts? Instead of negativity, determine to be positive. Perhaps you can help your husband see that his efforts are an opportunity to glorify God. Is your husband the "

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160142571766261072006-10-06T06:36:00.000-07:002006-10-06T06:54:21.443-07:00

This day is both difficult and easy to accomplish. It is difficult because we rarely talk to either WonderMan's mom or my dad. Not for any horrible reason, it's just the way our relationships are. We check in with each other occasionally, but it isn't often.It's easy to accomplish though when I do talk to them, as I'm always able to tell them something great about how he fathers Lou or loves me

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160141777950962762006-10-06T06:31:00.000-07:002006-10-06T06:55:47.986-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"...let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers." Eph. 4:29 Another way to describe the positive side of this "30-Day Encouragement Challenge" is by using the word "edify" which means, "to build up." Negative comments only

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1160141282026051792006-10-06T06:17:00.000-07:002006-10-06T06:31:05.326-07:00

I did not forget about day four. WonderMan was home for the day yesterday so we snuck away to check out the beach and the aquarium. Lots of fun but no time to post!As for D4's Response...I admit it. I tend to dump on WonderMan when he comes home from work. Whether it's to hand Lou over so I can get two minutes to myself or I zone out on the computer or remain still distracted over my day's agenda

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159965992860416102006-10-04T05:37:00.000-07:002006-10-04T05:49:13.356-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"…let him labor, working with his hands what is good…” Eph. 4:28We are all accountable for the things we say, both negative and positive words. Have you embraced the challenge to speak only positive things to your husband and to others about him? Here’s a suggestion that touches the core of your husband’s world.Some women take

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159965423445005742006-10-04T05:22:00.000-07:002006-10-04T05:48:12.526-07:00

WonderMan makes it ridiculously easy to take this challenge in that he's always doing things for which I should be (and am) very grateful. I have plenty of opportunities to say "thank you for what you did today and how you served me and loved me." Plenty. Yesterday was a good day for that. He was helpful, I (think) I did a good job at showing my gratitude in word and my actions.Where I usually

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159881442868118462006-10-03T06:14:00.000-07:002006-10-03T06:21:48.780-07:00

Mr. Linky is now working in the original 30 Day Husband Challenge post if you want to let me know you're joining me!

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159877286104099962006-10-03T04:59:00.000-07:002006-10-04T05:50:40.680-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)"...love suffers long, and is kind...1 Cor. 13:4And my God shall supply all your needs, according to His riches and glory by Christ Jesus. Phil. 4:19Love indeed suffers long and is kind. As you consider your Encouragement Challenge, determine today that you will not say anything negative to or about your husband. Speak

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159876757084860752006-10-03T04:40:00.000-07:002006-10-03T07:51:37.093-07:00

I thought I would start posting the challenge on the morning of the actual day and then post my response the following morning. I want to give any of you following along with me (and maybe even joining in) the ability to read ahead to what the challenge as the day begins, not later when it's over. Since WonderMan goes to work each morning, I will more than likely be meeting the challenge later in

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159875635883193072006-10-03T04:32:00.000-07:002006-10-04T05:51:23.403-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)...through love, serve one another. Gal. 5:13bHow did you do yesterday with your first day of blessing and encouraging your husband? Was it easy? Was it hard to hold your tongue when you wanted to say something negative? We hope you're off to a good start. (If you blew it, don't give up - start again today!) There are so many

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159816163600429482006-10-02T12:09:00.000-07:002006-10-02T12:09:25.073-07:00

I will be posting later today on Day Two of the Husband Challenge but I just thought I'd put it down for the record:My husband has been calling me a name behind my back. I've been called all sorts of names before, some I deserved and some I didn't, but this one? This one I certainly don't feel like I have earned. I found out today that hubs refers to me in his blog as WonderWoman. Seriously? I

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159736289859423232006-10-01T13:57:00.000-07:002006-10-01T14:12:46.466-07:00

(Taken from Revive Our Hearts, PDF Download - 30 Day Husband Challenge)Day OneThe heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.Proverbs 31:11-12To refresh your memory...here's the 30-Day Encouragement Challenge...for the next 30 days:You can't say anything negative about your husband...to your husband...or to

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159736209663319972006-10-01T13:55:00.000-07:002006-10-03T07:48:39.600-07:00

A few weeks ago, I posted a link to a site full of some really wise words on how to love and pray for your husband, with a HT to Mama Russell for directing me to it! (BTW: Congratulations and prayers of blessings go out to you Mama Russell, your new baby and your whole family!!)As I read through the 30 Day Husband Challenge over at Revive Our Hearts, I first thought that I was a tad too "newlywed

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159736127224508882006-10-01T13:54:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:55:28.236-07:00

If you're like me, magazines and books that teach parenting basics such as how to feed a child, potty train and take temperatures doesn't do much for me. I mean, they provide a great basic understanding in those beginning months, but month after month of learning nothing other than caring for my child's basic needs is exhausting and boring. Most of these basics come natural as I roll my sleeves

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159453311572967592006-09-28T07:21:00.000-07:002006-09-28T07:25:05.250-07:00

I've been in hiding lately. Not just here online where I've been more quiet than usual, but also in my home and in my heart. Hiding and quiet. I told the Hubs the other night when he asked if I was ok that I didn't know if I was about to cry or throw up. I felt physically and emotionally disturbed. I didn't know why. Part of it, or even all of it could be due to a rush of hormones here in my

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159450886333808072006-09-28T06:04:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:11:18.510-07:00

I'm so behind on this, I know, but I thought if I posted it, it will keep me accountable this fall to stick with my desire to read more from the pages of a book than the words on a screen.So, I'm joining Callapidder Days' Fall Into Reading Challenge.Here's my list of books I'm going to attempt to get through:The Quotidian Mysteries: Laundry, Liturgy and "Women's Work" by Kathleen NorrisAtlas

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159446892695502592006-09-28T05:34:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:09:16.840-07:00

Derek Webb, the former guitarist for Caedmon's Call has gone solo and on September 1, began to give away his latest album, Mockingbird, for FREE. Why is he doing this? He describes it fully here, but here's an excerpt:"my most recent record 'mockingbird' deals with many sensitive issues including poverty, war, and the basic ethics by which we live and deal with others. but i found that music has

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159445143451824172006-09-28T05:04:00.000-07:002006-09-28T05:05:43.726-07:00

If I can talk the hubs into it, this might be my first project in our new house!

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159375560052884702006-09-27T09:43:00.000-07:002006-09-27T09:46:00.486-07:00

Everytime I visit this site, I am inspired to go to a fabric store somewhere and get a sewing machine and buy some fabric and take some sewing lessons and churn out creative thing after thing. Alas, I have no sewing machine or time for lessons right now, but plenty of inspiration, thanks to Heather. If you do have a sewing bug in you, or just like pretty pictures of fabric and sewing projects,

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159183340725593292006-09-25T04:16:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:05:21.986-07:00

I LOVE birthdays. Not mine as much as others. It's such a fun time to celebrate the life and blessing that someone else brings to your life. It doesn't matter if it's family or friends, it's just a great time to thank God for the gift of that person's life to yours and to let that person know how grateful you are for their love and life.So, in that spirit, I thought I'd tell Karla HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1159123297144721892006-09-24T11:40:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:04:23.396-07:00

"The Beautiful is everywhere; perhaps more in the arrangement of your saucepans on the white walls of your kitchen than in your eighteenth-century living room or in the official museums." - Fernand Leger, painter

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1158925839995751082006-09-22T04:45:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:03:23.240-07:00

Word Of God Speakby Mercy MeI'm finding myself at a loss for wordsAnd the funny thing is it's okayThe last thing I need is to be heardBut to hear what You would sayWord of God speakWould You pour down like rainWashing my eyes to seeYour majestyTo be still and knowThat You're in this placePlease let me stay and restIn Your holinessWord of God speakI'm finding myself in the midst of YouBeyond the

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1158841322166687432006-09-21T04:02:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:01:56.310-07:00

The fear of the LORD leads to life; Then one rests content, untouched by trouble.Proverbs 19:23In scripture, fear is used to express a filial or a slavish passion. In good men, the fear of God is a holy awe or reverence of God and his laws, which springs from a just view and real love of the divine character, leading the subjects of it to hate and shun every thing that can offend such a holy

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1158668054155382902006-09-19T05:08:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:00:49.166-07:00

May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heartBless Your name, bless Your name, JesusAnd the deeds of the day and the truth in my waysSpeak of You, speak of You, JesusFor this is what I'm glad to doIt's time to live a life of love that pleases YouAnd I will give my all to YouSurrender everything I have and follow YouI'll follow YouLord, be my vision, Lord, be my guideBe my hope, be my

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157637158638303192006-09-13T06:35:00.000-07:002006-09-13T04:12:53.410-07:00

I loathe those little paint chip cards they have at the painting sections of home improvement stores. I don't know about you, but I really struggle to be decisive about such a big thing like painting entire walls of my house with a little 3x3 square of color. So, with our last house, I went to a scrapbook store and bought a few pieces of the large 12x12 cardstock in the colors I thought I might

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1158114636441561912006-09-12T19:28:00.000-07:002006-09-12T19:30:36.976-07:00

Recently read:"SIGN OF A GREAT HOUSEKEEPER...You haven't misplaced your house once."- Hallmark's premiere magazine issue out this month.

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1158067374512838662006-09-12T18:20:00.000-07:002006-09-12T06:24:00.683-07:00

Is is wrong that since my daughter has learned to say thank you for every tiny thing, I want to give her anything she asks for just to hear her say "dane doo"?

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1158063101413143462006-09-12T16:53:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:28:22.476-07:00

Holly at Seeking Faithfulness writes today about reading what your friends are reading because "It provides a frame of reference. It gives you insight into their thought processes." JettyBetty wrote a while ago (I wish I could find the link!) about how she's always read what her kids were reading as they grew up and does so even now into adulthood. I imagine that she does so for similar reasons (

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157634211120066222006-09-12T05:48:00.000-07:002006-10-01T13:27:10.863-07:00

The other day, I was watching the news and they were talking to people that endured a horrific storm ten years ago and lost everything to the flood waters here in NC. Though, one man they spoke to said he'd lost one shingle. That was it. The newscaster asked how in the world that was possible and this sweet older man responded with "I was blessed."It's interesting to me lately, how when things

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157553622626385882006-09-11T18:57:00.000-07:002006-09-12T04:44:24.666-07:00

Andrew Knox was born in South Australia, on January 7, 1972 to Marion and Tom and was the twin brother of Stuart. He was from the small town of Adelaide in Australia and was working with United Infrastructure Group in New York. Andrew was on the 103rd floor of the north tower in the Trade Center Towers on September 11, 2001. He was one of ten Australians killed that day in the terrorist

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157635289834180022006-09-11T06:07:00.000-07:002006-09-10T14:41:13.256-07:00

You Are Goodby Nichole NordemanFrom the new worship and lullaby album, Sing Over MeWhen the sun starts to riseand I open my eyesYou are goodSo GoodIn the heat of the dayWith each stone that I layYou are goodSo goodWith every breath I take inI'll tell you I'm grateful againWhen the moon climbs highbefore each kiss goodnightYou are goodWhen the road starts to turn around each bendI've learnedYou

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157633327309861882006-09-07T05:42:00.000-07:002006-09-07T05:48:47.463-07:00

I mirled people. Oh yes I did. And it was the best time! Karla at To Reflect His Glory and I met up at a halfway point between our two cities this past weekend and brought our two little bundles of joy and energy (Lou and Bean) and our sweet husbands even came along. We had such a great time getting to know this wonderful family better and we look forward to more day trips in the future! One

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157603636570638262006-09-06T21:33:00.000-07:002006-09-07T06:07:00.396-07:00

JettyBetty has posted a beautiful quote from Joni Eareckson Tada and it had me thinking about my day Tuesday.See, it all started when I had to wake up at the crack of dawn to take Hubs to work. In the pouring rain. I grew up in the desert. I don't know how to drive in intense rain. I said a little prayer and took a deep breath as I drove away from Hubs' work and the rain suddenly slowed to a stop

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157601454662445072006-09-06T20:55:00.000-07:002006-09-06T20:57:49.940-07:00

I was hoping to change my bright, spring template to something more autumn-esque. But, alas, here I sit, wasted hours later with nothing to show for it. I figured something was better than nothing and why not a "clean slate" so to speak. Thus the white background. I'll give it another go when I get up the motivation. After tonight, it could be a while.

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157546633728032302006-09-06T05:19:00.000-07:002006-09-06T05:43:55.113-07:00

Since I was about ten or eleven, I have been keeping a diary or journal of different sorts.As a pre-teen, my yellow and "gold" encrusted diary (with a lock, thankuverymuch) is filled with neon ink colored scribblings of friendship squabbles and troubles, boy woes and crushes, embarassing moments and conflict in my relationship with my mom, with an occasional prayer to God tucked in there.Fast

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157335402181443112006-09-03T19:02:00.000-07:002006-09-03T19:03:22.186-07:00

My Child… You may not know me, but I know everything about you …Psalm 139:1 I know when you sit down and when you rise up …Psalm 139:2 I am familiar with all your ways …Psalm 139:3 Even the very hairs on your head are numbered …Matthew 10:29-31 For you were made in my image …Genesis 1:27 In me you live and move and have your being …Acts 17:28 For you are my offspring …Acts 17:28 I knew you even

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157117405612820502006-09-01T05:35:00.000-07:002006-10-01T12:59:29.526-07:00

Why do I, a Christian, daughter of the King, sometimes live, as if I weren't really free? What is it about my life that makes it any different from any good-doing non-believer out there? Sadly, aside from my faith in Christ's redeeming love and grace, there are days when that answer is: not much.What keeps me in bondage and chains? What keeps me from living free? I have a few ideas...

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1157035883304058582006-08-31T07:50:00.000-07:002006-08-31T07:51:23.343-07:00

In his heart a man plans his course,but the LORD determines his stepsProverbs 16:9Many are the plans in a man's heart,but it is the LORD's purpose that prevailsProverbs 19:21What my children taught me about God…God cannot and will not be put in a box. He will not be confined to my expectations or limited knowledge of who He is. Even if I think I have His plans all figured out and I’m on track

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1156939578493999462006-08-30T04:59:00.000-07:002006-08-30T05:06:18.516-07:00

I admit, I'm a little one track focused these days on the home buying process. Yesterday, as I was gathering all the documents we needed for our mortgage lender, I came across this site that the lender sent us to (we had to take/pass the "test" as part of the mortgage application) and wanted to pass it on to you. http://www.mgichome.com/ It's a really informative, simple, yet detailed "class" on

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1156770630754866702006-08-28T04:38:00.000-07:002006-08-28T06:10:30.996-07:00

While I was out, much was said and written across the blogosphere that I'd had bookmarked to read at a time when, well, I chose to find the time. Which happened to be this morning. In all my reading, I came across some really, really great stuff and I had to post about it, not just to share with anyone that might read this in the hopes that it blesses you or speaks to you like it did me, but to

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1156648519659603182006-08-26T19:42:00.000-07:002006-08-26T20:15:19.683-07:00

I've tried several times to post a quick blurb on the fact that we've arrived safely and in one piece but life is running me over with the number of details on this end of the move and I've hardly had the time to breathe or the ability to sleep. All this makes for a really hard pressed schedule and a cranky me. So cranky that I wasn't sure what to write. And it's always best to stay quiet when

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1155826617502021792006-08-17T07:32:00.000-07:002006-08-17T07:56:57.506-07:00

Two more nights in this sweet little home and this hot big desert and we are outta here! I fly out with Lou on Saturday afternoon, with the Hubs trailing behind in a moving truck, to make our new home on the East Coast.The urge to nest, organize and clean from the side effects of pregnancy have been extremely helpful...as have those of you praying for me and my family during this move. We have

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1155650910671063792006-08-15T06:41:00.000-07:002006-08-15T07:08:31.093-07:00

I haven't ever participated in this fun little "blogame" that started over at Faithful Mommy, but yesterday something stuck out to me as a real treasure and it made me smile so much that I thought about posting about it but it seemed small and silly. Until I realized today was Tuesday Treasure - aha! A reason to share! I have this friend, H., who has come to AZ from CA either by flying the hour

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1155582988240011902006-08-14T11:50:00.000-07:002006-08-14T12:23:59.930-07:00

It's funny how much other people's children have taught me about God. Or about myself I should say and how amused (or sad) God must be looking down at my behavior.A few years ago, I was running an afterschool program for kids in public schools failing out of the elementary school. During my first year, I made the mistake of mixing up their physical needs with their emotional ones and so because

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154925606537994142006-08-06T21:20:00.000-07:002006-08-07T07:41:35.956-07:00

I just read a brilliant quote that Amanda posted over on her blog Wittingshire. In case you're not able to get to her site right away (though you really must visit - I am loving it over there!!), I wanted to include a bit of it here and share something that it brought to mind. I have a tendency to hold grudges with people that haven't apologized. I'm quick to forgive, if you ask for it. If you

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154705817013668152006-08-04T08:12:00.000-07:002006-08-04T08:41:38.806-07:00

You know how they say that having a baby causes you to lose most of your inhibitions regarding privacy when it comes to medical care? The same thing has kind of happened to me with my home as we move. It seriously is a disaster zone. There are still bits of apple and wheat thins spread across the floor from yesterday afternoon's lunch for Lou. The floor - oh the poor floor - hasn't been cleaned

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154619922625025802006-08-03T08:39:00.001-07:002006-08-03T08:49:01.473-07:00

My dear friend, Erin (Erinlo) and her husband, finally got the call, after months on end of anxiously and patiently waiting, to go to Vietnam bring their daughter Selah home! They are traveling on August 8 and will be gone for several weeks before their whole family in united back here in the states. If God brings it to your heart at any point over the next month or two, will you pray for their

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154453024760771232006-08-01T10:20:00.001-07:002006-08-01T10:24:45.303-07:00

Does anyone have any thoughts as to what we can leave behind for the new owners of our home? I wanted to put together a welcome basket of sorts that included of course the keys, garage door openers, manuals, paperwork, etc, for the house, but also included somethings that could be a housewarming gift of sorts. Any ideas?While I'm at the whole requesting help thing, does anyone have some good

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154448916890292772006-08-01T09:05:00.000-07:002006-08-01T09:15:16.896-07:00

Jennifer over at Snapshot brought up an interesting question about questions - those we avoid to answer and those we avoid to ask. I've been wanting to post the poem below for a while and her post reminded me of it again today.Isn't it easy to say "I'm fine, thanks!" when someone says "How are you?" It's so natural I do it often through my day without even realizing it. And no, the cashier at the

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154448301139797172006-08-01T08:34:00.000-07:002006-08-01T09:05:06.793-07:00

If I Really Caredby Ruth SenterI’d look you in the eyes when you talk to me;I’d think about what you’re saying rather than what I’m going to say next;I’d hear your feelings as well as your words.If I really cared . . .I’d listen without defending;I’d hear without deciding whether you’re right or wrong;I’d ask you why, not just how and when and where.If I really cared . . .I’d allow you inside of

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154232224938266042006-07-29T21:02:00.000-07:002006-07-29T21:11:26.096-07:00

Hubs sent me this in an email forward...there were more, but this was the one that still has me laughing...I was at the airport, checking in at the gate when an airport employee asked,"Has anyone put anything in your baggage without your knowledge?To which I replied, "If it was without my knowledge, how would I know?"He smiled knowingly and nodded, "That's why we ask"

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154066404738473952006-07-27T22:42:00.000-07:002006-07-27T23:00:04.756-07:00

Joining in with everyone else over at BooMama's, I thought I'd take you on a tour through our home. It's small and humble and we're sad we're leaving it behind when we move, but it has blessed us and allowed us to provide a great foundation for our family as we move forward...Welcome to our home...c'mon on in!Where most of the "living" happens...Where the blogging, bill paying, work stuff, etc.

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com62tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154039794165924832006-07-27T14:51:00.000-07:002006-07-27T15:36:35.786-07:00

Ok, after reading more comments and blog posts, I can’t help myself and have to post this…it did get long so hang in there if you’re interested.Everyone has an opinion or thought on what should or should not happen to Andrea Yates. I am no different I guess. But my thoughts are limited to an extent by the fact that I have never suffered from any mental illness. I do however, share to an extent

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154036862382099942006-07-27T14:31:00.000-07:002006-07-27T14:47:42.410-07:00

Amanda over at Wittingshire wrote today about choices and how we all have them. I remember a few years ago when my mother would tell me she was proud of me and the choices I made to not live inside the pain of the childhood she knew I'd had and I would tell her, "I didn't have any other choice." And we would argue over whether I did or didn't have a choice to do things differently than how I

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1154035868193762042006-07-27T13:44:00.000-07:002006-07-27T14:31:09.846-07:00

You would think with all the moving and toddler-ness and pregnancy-ness going on around here, I would be up to my ears with thoughts on the above three mentioned things.Not so. My head is full of thoughts and my heart is heavy with emotion.First, the conversation a few days ago over at Amy's blog about the simplicity of living and choice by the Amish really intrigued me. First, about how they are

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1153923871399328032006-07-26T07:20:00.000-07:002006-07-26T07:30:06.926-07:00

I come across so many wonderful posts in blog world that I want to print out and stick in my Bible or notebook that it would be bulging and I would be unable to close the covers. From WFMW ideas to beautiful devotionals to loving tributes that all have helped me grow spiritually and emotionally as a woman. I wanted a way to keep a piece of all these treasures, so I have started to bookmark those

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20344873.post-1153887750474735032006-07-25T21:12:00.000-07:002006-07-25T21:23:33.946-07:00

I am happy to announce...nay...BLESSED to announce that after spending an hour or so at the doctor's office today, I now know that I will be joining the ranks of you wonderful moms of SONS! Thankfully, I have so many of your beautiful footsteps to follow as I navigate my way through this new territory.The hubs is deliriously happy and I think I heard him actually grunt ala Tim Allen several times

Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03985908569379038429noreply@blogger.com15