tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-310370582024-03-18T21:45:10.545-05:00brickhausof5ramblings of a stay at home momma who works 2 jobs and loves on 3 kiddos and is married to 1 supermanbrickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.comBlogger353125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-15975606938458885932010-06-29T20:29:00.001-05:002010-06-29T20:31:26.667-05:00My wedding day- 10 on Tuesday EditionI married the mister ten years, 6 months and 18 days ago. I was a young 22 yr old at the time, just months out of college. I was the 1st of my crowd to get married and did not feel sure of myself and my decision making capabilities. As a result my wedding was very pretty and also very typical. There really wasn't anything that stood out.<br />
<br />
I told a friend that once and it surprised her. Apparently I am not one to march to anyone else's drummer these days. In 1999 that wasn't quite the case.<br />
<br />
I went to the wedding of a friend of mine's daughter on Saturday. This weekend I will go to another wedding of a friend's daughter. If I were to plan my wedding again I wouldn't change the biggest detail, I'd still marry the same mister.....but I would do a few things differently....<br />
<br />
*I'd wear funky shoes<br />
*I'd have a dj or cover band<br />
*I'd take more fun portraits<br />
*I'd get napkins with our monogram on them<br />
*I'd have stayed at my reception longer<br />
*I would have had a fuller veil.........though this turned out ok when it got pinned on upside down. My mom totally saved the day.<br />
*I would have gone to the bathroom earlier in the day<br />
*I would have had a house party<br />
*I would have had cookies at the reception<br />
*I would have changed before leaving the reception<br />
<br />
Overall, none of these details alter the meaning of that day. It is when I vowed before the Lord, my family and friends to love my husband from that day forward. For better for worse. Til death do us part.<br />
<br />
And I wouldn't change that for anything in the world.<br />
<br />
Happy Tuesday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-16958022711074829742010-06-28T08:46:00.000-05:002010-06-28T08:46:31.333-05:00Monday Morning Question of the Day~<i>***I am following the format of my sweet friend <a href="http://cookingwiths.blogspot.com/">Shannon's</a> blog today***</i><br />
<br />
Good morning!<br />
<br />
My parents drank at least a pot of coffee every morning while I was growing up. Black. Strong. Hot. My granny drank hers with two creams and some sweet 'n low.<br />
<br />
I never did. In college I would hang out at coffee shops, never <i>really </i>enjoying my cuppa. I went to visit a friend who moved to New Orleans and tried her iced coffee concoction. I liked it. I brought some home. Then I got prego with #1 and very obediently cut out all caffeine.<br />
<br />
As most of you know soon after the birth of #1 I got pregnant with #2. And suddenly desired coffee. Craved coffee.<br />
<br />
And I've been drinking it ever since. I like mine with a little flavored creamer. And now my husband and I drink a pot of coffee most mornings.<br />
<br />
<b>What is your morning beverage of choice? How do you take <i>your</i> coffee?</b><br />
<br />
Happy Monday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-11578049271444935652010-06-24T16:50:00.000-05:002010-06-24T16:50:22.859-05:00My happy place.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfeVVcqmJRR9wLGJ5NO6iEUtMfA6tXa8XWrL8pc5R8QyyPL39ti8T73KwlKRIuTStfz9ihFlRa2-Sk6yyi1FaXhUETtC8P5gRMx777vcF5bcdQnIwa8Tz1p9Lp9r5qsekxEqJ/s1600/IMG_4423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfeVVcqmJRR9wLGJ5NO6iEUtMfA6tXa8XWrL8pc5R8QyyPL39ti8T73KwlKRIuTStfz9ihFlRa2-Sk6yyi1FaXhUETtC8P5gRMx777vcF5bcdQnIwa8Tz1p9Lp9r5qsekxEqJ/s400/IMG_4423.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I have been in workshops before where they ask you to close your eyes and imagine a place that is peaceful and serene. Somewhere you could go if travel details didn't matter. A place that feeds your soul.<br />
<br />
Waimanalo Beach is that place for me.<br />
<br />
I always thought of a generic spot near the ocean, usually it looked like a corona commercial.<br />
<br />
Not anymore. From now one when I am asked to close my eyes and imagine my happy place, I will know just where to go. I will think about the alley way I walked through to get to the beach. The plumeria blooms covering the ground, the smell intoxicating. I will think of the shade trees and the coconut husks that led the way to the sand. Then I will think of the cliffs to the right, high to the sky. I will think of the trees, the wind, the small, unassuming houses who have this spot for their backyard.<br />
<br />
I will remember walking up at sunrise, sitting on a log, next to the mister, watching as moment by moment the sky came alive. And turning around, the mountains, covered in green, reflecting the sun. The waves, the crashing, the sand.<br />
<br />
Then I will remember later in the day when my children were laughing in those waves. In that sand. With their grandpa teaching them to use boogie boards and the joy on his face as he shared this little piece of his history with them. The black lab that was letting his owner bury him in the sand. The oatmeal raisin cookies I ate.<br />
<br />
I will remember running into the water when my son said "You HAVE to feel these waves, Mom!" The way my knees buckled when a particularly strong wave caught me off guard. The sand that filled my suit as I washed ashore.<br />
<br />
The wonder and awe I felt as I looked at the blue of the water, felt the coolness of the breeze and heard the joy of my children. <br />
<br />
And I will be happy.brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-5513698741432937102010-05-01T14:07:00.000-05:002010-05-01T14:07:22.259-05:00Date NightsLast night my Romeo took me on a date. He made arrangements for his parents to watch the kids overnight and we went to a new{to us} Italian restaurant and then to the movies. While the movie we saw was not spectacular, its premise was legit. Sometimes married folks get stuck in a routine and comfortable roles and rarely break out for any adventure.<br />
<br />
With three kids ages 7,6 and 3 I am not certain I need much adventure. But I do need to be a wife sometimes, the object of my husband's undivided attention without competing with the wee ones. I desire that attention from my husband, the feeling of being pursued. And I think it is a legitimate need.<br />
<br />
I have been praying and thinking quite a bit about intentional parenting. I think I need to be as intentional about being a wife and a partner to my husband.<br />
<br />
I found this <a href="http://www.simplymodernmom.com/2009/12/project-52-date-nights/">blog</a> today and I am excited to read more about the idea of weekly at home date nights. I want to have a special time set aside that I can spend time with my husband, nurturing our relationship, focusing on our marriage.<br />
<br />
I have heard for years how important it is to maintain the marriage relationship, to date my husband, to take care of myself so that I have the energy to take care of everyone else. I'm finally going to work on that. The website called the date nights Project 52, to last an entire year. I'm calling mine 16 Candles.......sixteen weeks of planned time with my mister.<br />
<br />
Because this Juliet needs her Romeo.<br />
Happy Saturday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-79828707365570053472010-04-13T13:05:00.004-05:002010-04-13T21:26:49.240-05:00Purposeful Motherhood-If you've read much of what I have written over the last 3 years, you know I use the word intentional. I desire to be intentional.<br />
<br />
I often fail.<br />
<br />
But I try again.<br />
<br />
My friend <a href="http://www.thesecretlifeofkat.com/">Kat</a> has created a blog entitled <a href="http://inspiredtoaction.com/">inspired to action</a> and it is fabulous.She has written posts on very practical steps to reach very lofty goals. Sometimes I read what she writes, word for word. Sometimes I skim. Sometimes I read it and inspired but overwhelmed.<br />
<br />
She wrote a post about creating a mission statement. The thought of creating a mission statement for my life completely overwhelmed me, to the point that I skimmed the step by step instructions she conveniently wrote in the body of the post.<br />
<br />
Today I went back to the original mission statement post and have spent some time thinking and writing and praying and thinking about what I want my mission statement to look like. Thankfully Kat says these don't have to be set in stone.....<br />
<br />
<b>**My Mission Statement**</b><br />
When you see me, you <b><i>see</i></b> <b><i>me</i></b>. <br />
<br />
*I will abide in the Lord’s presence. I will make daily decisions, reflecting on the grace and mercy the Lord has shown me. I desire that all I <b>say</b> and <b>do</b> will point others to the abundant life found in obedience to Christ. <br />
<br />
*I will think of John’s needs above my own. I will do what will cherish him, build him up and help him out. <br />
<br />
*I will pray daily for my children and that I might be the mother the Lord wants me to be. I will consistently discipline according to God’s word. I will foster a homelife that is fun and supportive. I will be a soft place to land. <br />
<br />
*I will actively love my friends by praying for them, writing notes of encouragement and showing them in individual ways that they are loved. I will be consistently active in the 530 Club and CR.<br />
<br />
<br />
Want to try writing your own? <br />
Happy Tuesday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-26659567174004063782010-04-12T13:10:00.002-05:002010-04-13T13:17:06.748-05:00My #2 is S.I.X.!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcWLUXtNwMZXQjlXI1LA8nZx86imc3VOARGQub9f7rTnKJ-hfXeyKzKV2x7MCj7ZtBCPRKULPcrFOqWLzijMJnuHI_GJGe6C-j83ZxpZwKZDYhsANZEzDjjwZA4nO69h6vEknS/s1600/Easter2010+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcWLUXtNwMZXQjlXI1LA8nZx86imc3VOARGQub9f7rTnKJ-hfXeyKzKV2x7MCj7ZtBCPRKULPcrFOqWLzijMJnuHI_GJGe6C-j83ZxpZwKZDYhsANZEzDjjwZA4nO69h6vEknS/s320/Easter2010+018.jpg" /></a></div>Six things I adore about this good lookin' guy-<br />
<br />
1. He can always make me laugh, even at the most opportune times.<br />
2. Last night he asked me to sing the <a href="http://5bricks.blogspot.com/2009/10/thankful-thursday.html">song</a> I used to sing to him as a baby. Then he told me he wished he were still 2 so I would lay in bed and sing with him. I melted.<br />
3. He can shimmy up any pole and usually does.<br />
4. He takes care of his little sister.<br />
5. He can rhyme as well as I can.<br />
6. He still wants me to carry him to bed. Sometimes.brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-7688402934358371852010-04-06T19:57:00.000-05:002010-04-06T19:57:14.647-05:00Thoughts on Easter<span style="font-size: small;"></span><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <i>I posted this on an Early Morning Group on FB today-</i> </span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">How was your Easter weekend? We had a really good time. I was watching a music video on Friday and it depicted the crucifixion. My 7 year old started crying and left the room. It wasn't extremely violent, but it did show blood streaming down the actor's face.<br />
<br />
Later she came back into the room and said 'Why would anyone want to die? Why would anyone do that?' I explained that the actor didn't really die, but that Jesus DID.<br />
<br />
And then it hit me. He could have said no. He wanted to obey His Father, but He was human enough to not want that pain. And I heard again in my head that Jesus would have chosen the cross even if I was the only person on the Earth.<br />
<br />
Chosen the cross.<br />
<br />
Not just fulfilled prophesies without any say. Not just go through the motions that didn't really hurt anyway, I mean He WAS God, surely He didn't hurt too much.<br />
<br />
I confess, these were thoughts that swirled in my brain. What was the big deal? He knew He was going to be in Heaven in a few days. This is the way it had to happen, there wasn't any other way.<br />
<br />
That part is true, there wasn't any other way. But if Jesus had decided that I wasn't worth it, He could have said no.<br />
<br />
And it wouldn't have happened at all.<br />
<br />
And THAT is the big deal.<br />
<br />
Happy Tuesday~ </span></h6>brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-76335324033872057932010-04-05T21:02:00.000-05:002010-04-05T21:02:23.423-05:00My # 1 is 7!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBwI2PQtUtkX1jfTuSpdlRIfEST-T44MlJBxDoDX6IJ1JI8975QW7zkUdBEEDa7-jthMMva2Mc5ok5ytsK9BsmfDtKf40jYJn1437griTfKWJ9C8CQmQ6OALwQ3gP_ZAsyGTf/s1600/Bdays2010+045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBwI2PQtUtkX1jfTuSpdlRIfEST-T44MlJBxDoDX6IJ1JI8975QW7zkUdBEEDa7-jthMMva2Mc5ok5ytsK9BsmfDtKf40jYJn1437griTfKWJ9C8CQmQ6OALwQ3gP_ZAsyGTf/s320/Bdays2010+045.jpg" /></a></div> Seven things I love about this gorgeous girl-<br />
<br />
*Her thoughtful spirit.....she often thinks of what her brother or sister or momma or daddy would like best.<br />
*Her love of reading.........a girl after my own heart!<br />
*Her sensitive heart.........many Disney movie villains still scare her. And I'm okay with that!<br />
*Her hospitality.......she loves to serve others.<br />
*Her friendships......she is loyal.<br />
*Her flexibility........she will do anything her coaches and teachers ask of her.<br />
*Her intelligence........she has a terrific memory and eye for detail.<br />
<br />
But above all these other things, I love that she loves Jesus. She cried when we watched a video depicting the crucifixion this weekend during Easter. She likes me to pray over her at night. She enjoys learning about God and the Bible and realizes the importance of a life spent with Him.<br />
<br />
It is my prayer that for as long as she is in my house and even after I will model a life that seeks out the Lord and desires an intimate relationship with Him. By the music I listen to, the books I read, the words I say, the way I spend my time.<br />
<br />
I've been entrusted with a gift in my Hannah Bean and I pray I am worthy of such a blessing.<br />
<br />
We love, you, Bean.<br />
Happy 7th birthday!!<br />
<br />
Happy Monday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-92009990966483236452010-03-29T21:16:00.000-05:002010-03-29T21:16:16.922-05:00RAok in ReviewAll my friend <a href="http://cookingwiths.blogspot.com/2010/03/what-i-really-want-for-my-40th-birthday_29.html">Shannon</a> wanted for her birthday was for folks to commit Random Acts of Kindness during the day. I decided mid morning that some of my acts were more AoK.....not so random, but carried on!<br />
<br />
I had such fun thinking about what I wanted to do. I dreamed big dreams, wishing I had unlimited funds in order to bless others. I have another friend who often comments she wishes she had enough money to be a benefactor. Wouldn't that be awesome?<br />
<br />
Anyway, back to my acts of kindness. I did not do any of these for recognition and will list them here only becuase Shannon wanted to know what all was going on in her name ;)<br />
<br />
Today I:<br />
<br />
-left a sticky note in the middle of some of my husband's papers, telling him I was praying for him<br />
-bought a coworker some iced tea {Sorry it tasted nasty :( }<br />
-paid for the woman behind the man behind me in line. {The man had a coupon}<br />
-left .50 in a coke machine change receptacle<br />
-left a note on a windshield<br />
-took popcicles and fudge pops to the workers at the local ER<br />
-left old magazines in the waiting room<br />
-left brand new sidewalk chalk at the park by the ball fields<br />
<br />
It was a stinkin' blast. I still wish I had money to pay for so many things. I struggled in my head a little bit and came to the conclusion that folks who aren't necessarily needy or poor could also be blessed by getting something paid for or given to them. That is probably obvious to many of you, but my brain had to bring me to that thought.<br />
<br />
That Shannon wanted this done on her birthday is not surprising. She is one of the most thoughtful people I know. Long before I knew her, I knew of her good deeds. I mean, this woman spent many a Monday afternoon helping a friend fold laundry! She loves to entertain, plan parties, bake for others. And she rarely tastes what she makes, can you believe it?<br />
<br />
Almost 18 months ago I came to her, still barely knowing her, needing help. She quickly, gladly, confidentially gave me the information I needed. That started the growth of our friendship and I am ever grateful that the Lord saw fit to intertwine our lives. We share many mutual friends and I get to see her several times a week. My kids have a nickname for her and #3 knows which drawer in her desk to look in for a treat. What a hoot!<br />
<br />
I and m.a.n.y. others are blessed by sweet Shannon.<br />
<br />
Happy 40th birthday, my friend. I love you-<br />
<br />
-<i>Its not too late to do your own RAoK....the feeling you get is quite a kick! And I decided this Act of Kindness thing was too fun to end today. I am creating the 40 Days of Kindness. I am going to attempt an anonymous act of kindness every day for the next 40 days. Up for another challenge?</i> <i>Leave a comment and let me know if you decide to carry on the RAoKs!</i><br />
<br />
Happy Monday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-74300599540935909422010-03-18T09:32:00.000-05:002010-03-18T09:32:08.234-05:00Thursday Thirteen13 things I loved about yesterday-<br />
<br />
1. Coffee and talking with Betty first thing.<br />
2. The hug KSB gave me when I met her in her driveway to walk.<br />
3. The easy, fun, real conversation we had as we jogged our own pace.<br />
4. Green pancakes.<br />
5. Green scrambles.<br />
6. Browsing the monogram store, kidfree.<br />
7. The trio of dips at On the Border for lunch.<br />
8. Watching my babes roll down the hill at the Bonfire Memorial.<br />
9. Reading some of the quotes on the memorial plaques and thanking God for each of my children.<br />
10. Crawling under a bridge on campus and listening to the squeals of my kids as they touches algae.<br />
11. A phone call from a dear friend who needed encouragement.<br />
12. Pulling weeds in the front yard.<br />
13. Falling asleep on the couch with the mister, knowing there was no work today!<br />
<br />
What did you love about yesterday? <br />
Happy Thursday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-42841237462551809702010-03-11T17:22:00.000-06:002010-03-11T17:22:50.324-06:00Thankful Thursday<i>So, then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6&7</i><br />
<br />
That last part describes me right now...<i> overflowing with thankfulness. </i>I have had a really great week and today in Bible study, as the teacher lectured, I was blown away by my place in this world. I have made some pretty major life changes over the last year or so and things just keep getting better and better.<br />
<br />
I became a Christian in the summer of 1991. I have loved Jesus with all of my heart ever since. There were moments that I was head over heels in love with Him, and my actions reflected that. There were other times that He was on the back burner, always there, but sometimes I turned Him down to low heat.<br />
<br />
I am reading in Genesis about Jacob and his sons and their choices. I feel a little like Jacob. Sometimes I looked to God, asked His opinions, sought wisdom from the Word. Many decisions I made were made relying only on my own knowledge.<br />
<br />
While I have remained safe and healthy all these years, I wonder about the blessings I missed out on when my life was not in line with the Lord's plan for me. I grieve for the choices that were unhealthy, unsafe and just plain wrong. There are earthly consequences I will face on this earth, though I am forgiven in Heaven. I thank the Lord over and over again for His mercy and grace.<br />
<br />
I am looking to Him these days. I am listening more, reading more, asking more, kneeling more. And I am hearing more. This week there have been two instances when I had a physical reaction while praying. I felt the Holy Spirit in my bones. It felt good.<br />
<br />
And I am overflowing with thankfulness.<br />
<br />
Happy Thursday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-53413632487674003132010-03-09T14:53:00.000-06:002010-03-09T14:53:17.784-06:00Ten Things I Say Repeatedly1. Rock the house, don't rock the house baby.<br />
<i>I have no idea where this term came from</i><br />
2. Kiss me again.<br />
<i>3 second kisses don't count around here. </i><br />
3. I said NO.<br />
<i>I hate saying this as much as I do. </i><br />
4. Did you shut the front door?<br />
<i>After two incidents of coming home to the door wide open, this has become a common refrain. </i><br />
5. We are on the same team.<br />
<i>To my children when they are purposely tormenting each other</i>.<br />
6. Hey baby.<br />
<i>To everyone in my family</i><br />
7. Are you serious?<br />
8. Fabulous<br />
9. Ridiculous<br />
#7 and <i>#8 and #9 are current words of the moment, these change depending on who I spend a great deal of time with.</i><br />
10. I love you.<br />
<i>I say this freely to many people and mean it each time I say it. I have a few friends that savor these words, giving them out only at the most important moments. Do you think it can come to mean less if one says it too frequently?</i><br />
<br />
Happy Tuesday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-59305034478587322172010-02-18T06:40:00.001-06:002010-02-18T07:54:06.185-06:0013.1, againSunday, February 14, 2010 I ran my second half marathon. Mr. Brick ran in a 5K. Yep, we were feelin' the love!<br />
<br />
Last year I ran in the local half marathon. It was my first one ever and I completed the training and the 1st 9 miles of the course with some very dear friends. What an accomplishment! My goal then was to run more than I walked and to finish running. I complete both of those goals in 2 hours and 31 minutes. I was very proud of myself, but didn't really feel like I had run a strong race. In fact, I mainly walked the last 3 miles, unable to run at all til the finish line.<br />
<br />
My running buddies and I ran off and on after that race, but our commitment kinda fizzled. I knew I was losing my fitness level and I needed some motivation, strong motivation.<br />
<br />
Another friend of mine is a racing queen. She travels all over the country and runs in marathons and half marathons with what I perceive to be ease. She told me how awesome the race atmosphere was in big cities. I was intrigued. I bit the bullet in December, paid the $75 entry fee and found myself duly motivated.<br />
<br />
One of my running buddies, the non pregnant one, felt similarly motivated and we were doing the 12 week training schedule again!<br />
<br />
Training went well, especially after the week we ran 7 miles. I pushed thru some sort of mental barrier and had predominantly good runs after that. Then the big weekend loomed.<br />
<br />
And I started to get nervous. I had 2 major fears. I couldn't find my friends at the start line last year and ran the first mile or so without them. Totally freaked me out. I was worried that would happen again. And during my training runs I often felt pretty sick afterwards, unable to warm up. I greatly feared either or both of those two things happening.<br />
<br />
{SPOILER ALERT.......neither one did!}<br />
<br />
Wendy and I met at our predetermined spot a few minutes after our predetermined time. There were a LOT of people there, on those dark capitol city streets. The mister took a picture of us, then left to find his start line. We started walking among the crowd, trying to find the sign that had our estimated pace on it. Note- the crowd thins near the back, ;)<br />
<br />
I said a quick prayer, we set our watches and then we heard lots of cheers.....WE WERE OFF! We knew this was going to be a hilly course and the first three miles didn't disappoint. It was fun, seeing all the people, checking out the wacky clothes folks wear and noticing the sun coming up.<br />
<br />
At mile 6 we stopped for water.<br />
<br />
Right around mile 9 we turned a literal corner, ran up a very literal hill and things became different in the race. What didn't change was the crowd support. There were people everywhere! Lots of signs for running mommas and daddys. Lots of family members cheering their support. Hugs, high fives, excitement. It was a great scene.<br />
<br />
The hills didn't stop after mile 9. There was a constant up and down. I quickly found that it hurt more to walk downhill than jog. The mile 12 marker was at the bottom of the biggest hill I have ever had the joy of walking on, let alone attempting to run up. Which in fact, I didn't. And I don't think I saw anyone else running up it either. I have told folks I felt like I was hiking up Enchanted Rock. It was some serious elevation.<br />
<br />
I huffed and puffed my way to the top. It was really hard. Though, at that point I realized there was less than a mile to go! The last .5 mile or so winds around the capitol grounds. I started to get verclempt in the shade of the pink limestone, but my lungs were in no condition to cry and my wheezing stopped any sort of sentimental moment I was trying to have.<br />
<br />
I had a burst of strength and really finished the race strong. I felt good! I think honestly, we didn't walk much more than a mile, total. And though I finished in 2 hours and 45 minutes, 14 minutes slower than last year, I felt much stronger and felt much better the rest of the day.<br />
<br />
I ate a banana, mini bagel and downed a thing of chocolate milk within 20 minutes of finishing. I stretched some, sat down for a few minutes and hobbled to the car with Mr. Brick helping me out. I was extremely sore the rest of Sunday and I was worried the tops of my feet were supremely bruised. Monday I was not near as sore but I was really really tired. Thankfully it was a holiday and I could sneak in a morning nap and an afternoon doze. Tuesday I woke up and felt completely recovered. Yea!<br />
<br />
It was really really a great experience. It must be a bit like childbirth because I can't honestly remember my feet hurting at all during the race {and I know they did} and I want to register for another one. In fact, on Tuesday I was even reading over a full marathon training schedule. I still don't think I have the hours in a day to devote to training, but maybe someday........<br />
<br />
Whew.........this is long..........thanks for reading it! I had many, many friends praying for me and for the weather and the Lord was very gracious in providing warm sun for the run. I enjoyed myself, the beauty of the city I was in and the camaraderie of running with 8700 others. I can't wait to do it again! Though maybe in a town NOT known for its hills, ha!<br />
<br />
Happy Thursday!brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-3383609041935796722010-02-09T08:46:00.001-06:002010-02-09T10:43:47.534-06:00Ten on TuesdayMy most favoritest <span style="font-size: xx-small;">{sorryjustin,jaci,angela,and alltherest}</span><span style="font-size: small;"> cousin is coming to visit in 2.5 weeks!!!! Here are 10 reasons I love her so-</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1. She wrote me letters while we were growing up. I rarely, if ever, wrote back. But still, she wrote.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">2. She loves Twizzlers as much as I do.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">3. She is totally following her dream in Hollywood - man, that takes courage!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">4. We have a shared history and can relate to things like only family can.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">5. We can talk on the phone and laugh like only dear friends can.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">6. She loves my husband and children and takes every opportunity to make us all feel special.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">7. She calls to make certain I am in the loop when it comes to grandparents and health concerns.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">8. She inspires me to be a better writer.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">9. Our relationship is a priority of hers and makes certain to visit, no matter what!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">10. She deeply loves her family. Even when its hard or uncomfortable. And I am blessed to be part of that family.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I love you, Snap! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span>brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-28302026746576602362010-02-05T06:44:00.000-06:002010-02-05T06:44:30.073-06:00My sweet #3 is going thru a little momma separation anxiety. On Tuesday, Mr. Brick arrived home at about 530 pm. He told me to hurry up and get my run in before it got dark. As I was lacing up my shoes, #3 said 'Are you going running?'<br />
<blockquote>{In a side note I LOVE that my babes know I run. They often want to run with me. I have not become unselfish enough to give up my hour of silence to let them join me, but I am pleased as punch that running somehow defines a part of me for them. Another day, another post.}</blockquote><br />
I told her that I was going to go run and would be back in one hour. She started crying, 'Noooooooooo, I don't want you running. I want you to stay here. With me.' I tried to reason with her that we had spent the last 12 hours together. Side by side, totally focused on one another. That in fact, she had not even napped that day, so she really had been with me for the entire day. T.w.e.l.v.e. hours. As I said that I also said, on 2nd thought I might run for two hours.....just kidding!<br />
<br />
I left and her daddy had to deal with her. When I returned she jumped up and rushed me at the door. Quickly she told me 'You stink!' but my welcome was a warm one.<br />
<br />
Last night as I was doing the kid handoff at basketball practice we had a similar episode. Lots of crying, hugging my leg, sadness. Mr. Brick seriously had to peel her off of me and I left listening to her tears. When I got home later I asked if she stopped as soon as I left. <i>{Generally speaking, our children give us a big show of crocodile tears and as soon as we are out of sight, so are the water works}</i> However the mister said that this time she was sad for a long time, until they got home. He could distract her for a second, then she'd remember I was gone and start bawling again.<br />
<br />
I hurt when my babes hurt. I am sad when they are sad. But part of my heart is so grateful that #3 and I are bonded in such a way that she desperately misses me when I am gone. Neither the mister nor I could remember this phase with #1 or #2. The mister is certain we have blocked it out of our memory, ha! I am going to savor these tight neck hugs and cries for Momma.........the days are fleeting and soon, my 2 yr old #3 will be too big to hold..........ala #1..........<br />
<br />
Happy Friday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-54548074267766609862010-02-04T08:26:00.000-06:002010-02-04T08:26:06.264-06:00Thankful ThursdayToday I am thankful for:<br />
<br />
*antibiotics<br />
*rain boots<br />
*text messaging {do I say that every time?}<br />
*The Lord's Supper<br />
*DVR<br />
*pop tarts<br />
*friends who trust me<br />
*asics running shoes<br />
*washable paint<br />
*matches<br />
*my crock pot<br />
*picnic baskets<br />
*home days<br />
<br />
What are you thankful for?<br />
Happy Thursday!brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-20401404465051123372010-02-01T06:28:00.001-06:002010-02-01T06:29:55.959-06:00530 Club<h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="text-align: center;"><span class="UIIntentionalStory_Names" data-ft="{"type":"name"}"> </span><i><span class="UIStory_Message">"you hear my voice in the morning; at sunrise I offer my prayer and wait for your answer." Psalm 5:3</span></i></h3><br />
<br />
I love to wake up early. Crawl out of bed in the dark, tip toe to the kitchen, start the coffee and my worship music on itunes.<br />
<br />
Wait, I don't <b><i>love</i></b> to wake up early.<br />
<br />
I love the effect it has on my day. I have been doing this with semi-regularity for at least a year. I started a group on FB dedicated to encouraging my friends to wake up early. I have a friend named <a href="http://www.thesecretlifeofkat.com/">Kat</a> who was instrumental in helping me realize the inherent value in purposely getting up early.<br />
<br />
Kat has started a new <a href="http://inspiredtoaction.com/2010/01/welcome-to-inspired-to-action/">blog</a> that is all about mothering and the first series is about getting up early. I also sometimes read the <a href="http://www.girltalkhome.com/">Girl Talk blog</a> which is focusing on rising early this month, too.<br />
<br />
It is<strike> easy</strike> hard to do. It takes committment. Some days all I can do is get out of bed and call that success. Some days I have a super fabulous quiet time with the Lord and hit my day running. Some days I spend more time reading FB status updates and looking at pictures.<br />
<br />
However, I am confident my early morning time is not wasted. Even if the only visible benefit is the easier way I interact with my children after having two cups of coffee in me, its worth it, don't you think?<br />
<br />
What time do you get up?<br />
<br />
Happy Monday~<br />
<br />
PS On the side I posted a button that will lead you to Kat's ebook, <a href="http://inspiredtoaction.com/ebook/">Maximize Your Mornings</a>. Read it! You'll be excited to get up tomorrow!brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-85468428757339215812010-01-28T08:13:00.000-06:002010-01-28T08:13:10.713-06:00Thirteen on ThursdayIt seems I need an attitude adjustment. I have been irritable, grouchy, short tempered and feeling sorry for myself. Get real, right? There is nothing big going on, just a lot of obligations and places I have to be rather than want to be. Doing things that must get done rather than things I want to get done. And quite honestly, just not wanting to get much done at all.<br />
<br />
My boss wants me to tell her three positive things each week during our meeting. Last week they flipped right off my tongue. Yesterday I had to think a little harder.<br />
<br />
Right now I am going to make myself think of 13 positives.<br />
<br />
Ready? Go.<br />
<br />
1. I met my dear friend at the track this am. She could read the desperation in my email last night and agreed to meet. I am selfish with my time with her and though we didn't get enough, we had some.<br />
2. Creme brulee creamer. My sister finally found a doctor who had an idea about what was going on with her body. The bad news is that she has to cut out all forms of sugar from her diet. The good news is that the brickhaus benefited from her pantry clean sweep.<br />
3. I am having fun with my preschool class. My assistant and I are getting to know each other more and more and we are laughing lots.<br />
4. My foot isn't hurting anymore where it had been for about a week.<br />
5. We have <i>just</i> enough $$$ to pay our bills. No more, but we don't need more.<br />
6. I have made a new friend and texting with her has gotten me out of my own head a time or two over the last week.<br />
7.Uh oh, barely half way there........um.....I felt very accomplished when I vaccummed under both couches in the living room on Tuesday.<br />
8. The mister is on a serious healthy eating and exercise kick. Yea for him!<br />
9. My mother in law is getting to meet lots of folks in the community and is so impressive with her drive and determination during her campaign.<br />
10. A cute girl from church babysat for me on Tuesday for the first time and my kids loved her and I did too!<br />
11. My friend Betty is holding my feet to the fire to get my work done. {I <i>guess</i> this is positive}<br />
12. Some friends of mine are moving back to Texas soon! Well, the husband is already here. His wife and wee ones will be soon. I am so excited about this friendship and hanging out with my virtual friend in person!!!<br />
13. Jesus loves me. Even when I am irritable. Grouchy. Short tempered. Feeling sorry for myself.<br />
<br />
What are<i> your</i> three positives today?<br />
Happy Thursday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-42915038502839002252010-01-18T21:50:00.000-06:002010-01-18T21:50:58.661-06:00Anyway you say it......<span style="font-size: large;">Psalm 130:3,4&7</span><br />
<br />
If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins, <br />
O Lord, who could stand? <br />
But with you there is forgiveness; <br />
therefore you are feared.<br />
O Israel, put your hope in the LORD, <br />
for with the LORD is unfailing love <br />
and with him is full redemption. <i> </i><br />
<i> NIV</i><br />
<br />
If you, <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">God</span>, kept records on wrongdoings, <br />
who would stand a chance? <br />
As it turns out, forgiveness is your habit, <br />
and that's why you're worshiped.<br />
O Israel, wait and watch for <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">God</span>— <br />
with <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">God</span>'s arrival comes love, <br />
with <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">God</span>'s arrival comes generous redemption.<br />
<i>The Message</i><br />
<br />
L<span style="font-variant: small-caps;">ord</span>, if you kept a record of our sins,<br />
who, O Lord, could ever survive?<br />
But you offer forgiveness,<br />
that we might learn to fear you.<br />
O Israel, hope in the L<span style="font-variant: small-caps;">ord</span>;<br />
for with the L<span style="font-variant: small-caps;">ord</span> there is unfailing love.<br />
His redemption overflows.<br />
<i>New Living Translation</i><br />
<br />
If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.<br />
Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption.<br />
<i> King James Version </i><br />
<br />
If You, Lord, should keep account of and treat [us according to our] sins, O Lord, who could stand?<sup class="xref" value="(<a href="#cen-AMP-16144A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup> But there is forgiveness with You [just what man needs], that You may be reverently feared and worshiped.<br />
O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is mercy and loving-kindness, and with Him is plenteous redemption.<br />
<i>Amplified Bible </i><br />
<br />
JAH, si mirares a los pecados, <br />
¿Quién, oh Señor, podrá mantenerse? Pero en ti hay perdón, <br />
Para que seas reverenciado.<br />
Espere Israel a Jehová, <br />
Porque en Jehová hay misericordia, <br />
Y abundante redención con él; <span style="font-size: small;"><i> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i> Reina-Valera 1960</i></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I am beyond grateful for a God that offers His mercy and grace. Again and again and again. I hope you know His love, too.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i> <br />
</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Happy Monday~<i><br />
</i></span>brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-87590007503987605242010-01-08T13:43:00.002-06:002010-01-08T13:43:23.014-06:00Happy Anniversary! <i>I married my husband ten years ago today! This has always been our song-</i><br />
<br />
It was no accident me finding you<br />
Someone had a hand in it<br />
Long before we ever knew<br />
Now I just can't believe you're in my life<br />
Heaven's smilin' down on me<br />
As I look at you tonight<br />
<br />
I tip my hat to the keeper of the stars<br />
He sure knew what he was doin'<br />
When he joined these two hearts<br />
I hold everything<br />
When I hold you in my arms<br />
I've got all I'll ever need<br />
Thanks to the keeper of the stars<br />
<br />
Soft moonlight on your face oh how you shine<br />
It takes my breath away<br />
Just to look into your eyes<br />
I know I don't deserve a treasure like you<br />
There really are no words<br />
To show my gratitude<br />
<br />
So I tip my hat to the keeper of the stars<br />
He sure knew what he was doin'<br />
When he joined these two hearts<br />
I hold everything<br />
When I hold you in my arms<br />
I've got all I'll ever need<br />
Thanks to the keeper of the stars<br />
<br />
It was no accident me finding you<br />
Someone had a hand in it<br />
Long before we ever knewbrickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-79831678025903684502010-01-07T06:34:00.000-06:002010-01-07T06:34:27.798-06:00Thankful Thursday~Today is Thursday, January 7, 2009. On Friday, January 7, 2000 I practiced walking down the aisle. I was wearing a red shirt, black sweater and black pants. We had to practice the kiss at the end two times.<br />
<br />
It was my wedding rehearsal!<br />
<br />
Mr Brick and I were married on January 8, 2000.<br />
<br />
T.E.N. years ago. I love that we were married in 2000 so that we will quickly recall how many years we have been married. When we started dating in 1994 I remember thinking that when we are still together when I am 32 I will have been with the mister for half my life.<br />
<br />
I am 32.<br />
<br />
I vaguely remember life without the mister. We have grown up together and been through college and law school, babies, family members' deaths, jobs, many changes.<br />
<br />
There is no one I'd rather have by my side. Both today, the last 16 years, and the many many years to come.<br />
<br />
And for that I am thankful.<br />
<br />
Happy Thursday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-67213518977213793652009-12-30T14:20:00.002-06:002009-12-30T14:32:42.454-06:00These are a few of my favorite things.........are you humming the tune?<br /><br />*my coffee maker with a timer... Mr. Brick preps the coffee every night and I just have to hit a button when I get up in the morning and viola!<br /><br />*Text messages...sometimes it isn't convenient to make a phone call when one needs a quick shot of encouragement<br /><br />*<a href="http://www.runningmap.com/">runningmap.com</a> ... I love being able to plot my runs and also being able to see where the mister is running while he is gone.<br /><br />*my new chiropractor. I have been having shoulder problems for over a year and after just two visits I feel 95% better. Seriously.<br /><br />*DVR.....we were cable free and very low cable for many years. We feel we have really moved on up now with ESPN <span style="font-style: italic;">AND</span> DVR, ha! I know several of my friends have recently done away with their hook up and I think that is wise. However, that really isn't an option with the mister and I {love} being able to watch The Biggest Loser after the kids go to bed.<br /><br />*Nativity scenes....I have been collecting these for several years, trying to get a new one each year. My friend came over yesterday and as I went to show her my new one, I realized I had 6 new ones. S.I.X. .....granted 3 were gifts, but seriously, 6?<br /><br />*New bedding for my kiddos....my mother in law bought new bedding for all three kids. She recognized that I have to wash the bedding often, especially for the younger two and it is going to be so nice to have a spare set of sheets to fall back on! And #1 loves her shabby chic quilt!<br /><br />*Our fire place......makes me feel so at home and cozy and peaceful. I just love it!<br /><br />What is one of <span style="font-style: italic;">your</span> favorite things?<br /><br />Happy Wednesday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-85513848310392256302009-12-21T09:01:00.002-06:002009-12-21T09:05:04.924-06:00<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CHP_ADM%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);font-size:180%;" >Ten Goals for 2010</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">10. Get Lu to wear hair accessories more regularly – her head o’curls is nearing the out of control stage<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">9. Find appropriate reading material for Bean……..she is a voracious reader, on the 4<sup>th</sup> grade level, I think……<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">8. Get an agent for DD…….seriously, this guy is funny! And still so sweet and cuddly.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">7. Run my second half marathon. I did the local race in March of 2009 and have registered for an <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Austin</st1:place></st1:city> race in February.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">6. Find suits to fit the mister……..he won the office Biggest Loser contest and is starting to run, as well.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">5. Locate my box of desk items I packed when we moved to our new house in September.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">4. Invest in tea tree oil shampoo……..2010 will be nit free for us!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">3. Continue working on my mother in law’s campaign – Blanche is running for State Representative for District 14.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">2. Spoil baby Holton and send him home </span><span style=";font-family:Wingdings;font-size:100%;" ><span style="">:)</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> Jori and Neil had their first baby in June.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">1. Bask in the joy my <span style="font-weight: bold;">faith, family</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">friends</span> give me each day.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /><span style="font-size:14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">Happy Happy New Year from our house to yours!</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></p> brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-90248669988263263972009-12-02T06:33:00.002-06:002009-12-02T06:46:51.750-06:00His wordsThe other night I was laying in bed and sleep wasn't coming. rarely happens to me and I hate it when it happens. For some reason I started thinking about all the things I'd done wrong in my life. About poor decisions made and people that were affected. Very, VERY quickly it snowballed and I became upset. It was all I could do to start repeating the words, Jesus loves me, this I know. For the Bible tells me so. I said those words over and over in my head, maybe 5 times. Then the words, from the east to the west came into my brain. I thought of the song and just kept saying from the east to the west. I calmed down and thanked the Lord for His wisdom just at the moment that the enemy was taking me down. I chose to believe truth and it was a very purposeful choice. It was almost a physical change, to switch my brain's gears from the bad thoughts to the good.<br /><br />Monday I told a friend about it and then went to find the verse that was in my head. It came from Psalm 103 and the entire Psalm is just so incredible. I hope it speaks to you at some point, when you most need it.<br /><br />Psalm 103<br /><br />Praise for the LORD'S Mercies.<br /><br />A Psalm of David. <br />1Bless the LORD, O my soul, <br />And all that is within me,<br /> bless His holy name. <br /><strong>2Bless the LORD, O my soul, </strong><br /><strong> And forget none of His benefits; </strong><br /><strong>3Who pardons all your iniquities, </strong><br /><strong> Who heals all your diseases; </strong><br /><strong>4Who redeems your life from the pit, </strong><br /><strong> Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; </strong><br /><strong>5Who satisfies your years with good things, </strong><br /><strong> So that your youth is renewed like the eagle. </strong><br /><br />6The LORD performs righteous deeds <br /> And judgments for all who are oppressed. <br />7He made known His ways to Moses, <br /> His acts to the sons of Israel. <br />8The LORD is compassionate and gracious, <br /> Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. <br />9He will not always strive with us, <br /> Nor will He keep His anger forever. <br />10He has not dealt with us according to our sins, <br /> Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. <br /><strong>11For as high as the heavens are above the earth, </strong><br /><strong> So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. </strong><br /><strong>12As far as the east is from the west, </strong><br /><strong> So far has He removed our transgressions from us.</strong> <br />13Just as a father has compassion on his children, <br /> So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. <br />14For He Himself knows our frame; <br /> He is mindful that we are but dust. <br /><br />15As for man, his days are like grass; <br /> As a flower of the field, so he flourishes. <br />16When the wind has passed over it, it is no more, <br /> And its place acknowledges it no longer. <br />17But the lovingkindness of the LORD is from<br /> everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, <br /> And His righteousness to children's children, <br />18To those who keep His covenant <br /> And remember His precepts to do them. <br /><br />19The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, <br /> And His sovereignty rules over all. <br />20Bless the LORD, you His angels, <br /> Mighty in strength, who perform His word, <br /> Obeying the voice of His word! <br />21Bless the LORD, all you His hosts, <br /> You who serve Him, doing His will. <br />22Bless the LORD, all you works of His, <br /> In all places of His dominion; <br /> Bless the LORD, O my soul!<br /><br />Happy Wednesday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31037058.post-25113510181447314992009-11-20T06:09:00.003-06:002010-01-03T12:38:27.426-06:00Faith on a Friday-A few weeks ago I meet with a woman I hadn't talked to in several years. Before our chance meeting during a car accident on the side of the road in 2007 it had been at least 15 years since I was in her class. We, however, reconnected on facebook, of all places, and I loved reading the insight and wisdom and faith stories she wrote.<br />
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We met at a bookstore, shared a bit of where we were in life, our struggles, our successes and the basis for which all of the above comes from.<br />
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She gave me a packet of a Bible study. An in depth, inductive study on the book of 2 Timothy. I have never done an inductive study and I shared with her my desire for some structure and focus to my early morning quiet times.<br />
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Today I finished the last lesson on 2 Timothy, Chapter 1. The last questions asked my to read again chapter 1 and think about what Paul's instructions to Timothy meant to <i>my</i> salvation and my thoughts on my Savior.<br />
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This is what I wrote:<br />
a. my salvation<br />
-I have a sincere faith, as well. I pray that #1, #2 and #3's children may be told the same thing as 1:5<br />
-I must continually 'kindle afresh the gift of God' which is in <b>me!</b><br />
<b> </b>-I have been given a spirit of power, love and discipline, not timidity<br />
-I will have to suffer for the gospel<br />
-I will guard the treasure, w/ the help of the Holy Spirit, which dwells in me.<br />
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b. my Savior<br />
-is God the Father AND Christ Jesus our Lord<br />
-I desire to serve God with a clear conscience (1:3)<br />
-God has given me my spirit<br />
-it is for HIS purpose I have been called<br />
-He abolished death and brought life and immortality<br />
-The Holy Spirit dwells <b>in</b> me!<br />
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Lots to think about today!<br />
Happy Friday~brickmommahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01698480446852676947noreply@blogger.com0