Ahhhh...I am so excited! Shane and I are getting away for a night by ourselves this week! We haven't done that since our Babymoon a month before Noah was born...that's already a year and a half ago! Wow! Time flies!
I will always cherish the memories of our Babymoon. A generous couple allows us to spend 2 nights in their cabin, right on the lake and it was so peaceful and enjoyable! We BBQed, went for walks, watched movies and relaxed. Soooo awesome.
A few weeks ago, I mentioned that I would love the chance to get away for a night with Shane before my sister heads back to Canada for the summer. The next day, as I was sharing some of my struggles at my women's small group, one of my friends pointed out that I might just need some time away with Shane. She asked when the last time was that Shane and I were off base together for a night.....not since we arrived in Kansas City last June. I realized she might be on to something.
I mentioned the advice to Shane and was starting to think more about it. That evening or the next day, we got a text from a friend who felt that we needed to get away for a night or two and wanted to send a gift of finances to help make that happen! I think that is confirmation! This person knew nothing about our recent thoughts/conversations! =)
So, with the Lord's kind prompting and special provision, we are doing just that!
It's a crazy time for Shane, super busy at the office preparing for the Call2All Congress in Thailand in just a few weeks and lots and lots of meetings at the base these days. He's been pulling long hours and working some evenings/weekends. We are still waiting for visas and are praying about the timing and sovereignty of the Lord over this situation, especially since Shane is supposed to leave for Thailand in 2 weeks today. In light of this all, we and the friends involved in our story, feel that we are supposed to go for our getaway now, and not wait until after Thailand.
So, we are off on Thursday to a cute bed and breakfast in a Georgian-style mansion 45 minutes away! Yay! I am one exciting lady!
Monday, April 29, 2013
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Waiting, waiting and more waiting...
I sure had hoped to be driving to Manitoba today =( I had hope and faith to pray that this week there would be breakthrough in the visa process. So, Noah and I have been praying in an increased way the last 2 weeks and even felt stirred to start planning what our trip would include, whenever it so happens. I figured out it would work best to leave here on a Thursday so we could get in 2 weekends with our family in Manitoba. Who knew today would be the best Thursday to leave between now and July. And we are not northbound. Boo.
I'm disappointed but the first thing I'm feeling is frustration. Aimed at the lawyer. We just found out he still hasn't done the work that the government is waiting for. First the documents were lost in the US postal service for 6 weeks and now we've been waiting for the lawyer to do their requests for the last 3 weeks. And we can do nothing. about. it.
I'm mad. And a little sad. And having a moment of frustration.
This process has had a lot of grace and generally I feel a lot of peace with the uncertainty, waiting and lack of control we have. But, this week I'm feeling like I've had enough. This is feeling ridiculous already and I think this has taken long enough. We need some breakthrough!
So, I need to turn this frustration into contending prayer, praying that we would see breakthrough and that I wouldn't give up that hope and faith for it, despite discouraging news from the lawyer.
Please pray with us that the lawyer would do the work needed speedily, submit it very soon, that nothing else would be needed and that our visas would be approved quickly. And pray that we would have peace that the Lord holds the timing in His hands, regardless of the timing issues we have in the natural. We'll keep you posted!
I'm disappointed but the first thing I'm feeling is frustration. Aimed at the lawyer. We just found out he still hasn't done the work that the government is waiting for. First the documents were lost in the US postal service for 6 weeks and now we've been waiting for the lawyer to do their requests for the last 3 weeks. And we can do nothing. about. it.
I'm mad. And a little sad. And having a moment of frustration.
This process has had a lot of grace and generally I feel a lot of peace with the uncertainty, waiting and lack of control we have. But, this week I'm feeling like I've had enough. This is feeling ridiculous already and I think this has taken long enough. We need some breakthrough!
So, I need to turn this frustration into contending prayer, praying that we would see breakthrough and that I wouldn't give up that hope and faith for it, despite discouraging news from the lawyer.
Please pray with us that the lawyer would do the work needed speedily, submit it very soon, that nothing else would be needed and that our visas would be approved quickly. And pray that we would have peace that the Lord holds the timing in His hands, regardless of the timing issues we have in the natural. We'll keep you posted!
Thursday, April 11, 2013
A Step Closer to Canada....
Glory! My passport arrived this morning!
My passport expired and so I had to renew it from here in Kansas City and I didn't know if the timing would be incredibly awkward. What I mean by this is what if our visas were approved and we could make a trip to Canada, only to not be able to because my passport hadn't arrived from Canada yet? That would be such a bummer!
Also, with how the mail works with our set up here at YWAM, we can't receive Fed Ex packages at our door. We were praying that the Lord would work a special circumstance that would allow us to receive the passport, when the systems in place here make a delivery like that really awkward.
Again, the Lord made a way, just like He did when we were waiting for Shane's a few months ago. I got a knock on the door from the neighbor who happened to be upstairs when Fed Ex pulled up and talked with the driver. I'm sooooo grateful that he was in the right place at the right time and that God made a way for that passport to get to me instead of being redirected back to Canada!
Now we're one step closer to a trip to Manitoba! Please continue to pray with us for our visas!
My passport expired and so I had to renew it from here in Kansas City and I didn't know if the timing would be incredibly awkward. What I mean by this is what if our visas were approved and we could make a trip to Canada, only to not be able to because my passport hadn't arrived from Canada yet? That would be such a bummer!
Also, with how the mail works with our set up here at YWAM, we can't receive Fed Ex packages at our door. We were praying that the Lord would work a special circumstance that would allow us to receive the passport, when the systems in place here make a delivery like that really awkward.
Again, the Lord made a way, just like He did when we were waiting for Shane's a few months ago. I got a knock on the door from the neighbor who happened to be upstairs when Fed Ex pulled up and talked with the driver. I'm sooooo grateful that he was in the right place at the right time and that God made a way for that passport to get to me instead of being redirected back to Canada!
Now we're one step closer to a trip to Manitoba! Please continue to pray with us for our visas!
Thursday, April 04, 2013
Toddlers Times
Today my little Noah is 16 months and he sure has left babyhood behind for discovering life as a toddler!
It seems that he is learning new things every day and it is so fun and fascinating to watch him discover the world around him. It makes simple things like horses, hugs, dancing, snacks, drinks of water, walks down the hallway, ping pong paddles, buses and keys seem like gold. They are major reasons to get VERY excited, wave your arms, raise your eyebrows and pant with sheer joy =) I love this. It has made me get excited about the animals that we can see out our window, the walks around the base that are like adventures and giving a cup of water has a whole new meaning =)
Noah had the flu for the first time earlier this month. It was so sad to see him so sick =( He was so sweet and precious, not fussing, but instead got super quiet and relaxed. It was so weird to see him so stationary! We enjoyed lots of snuggles. He got the flu only 3 days after I returned from my trip to Colorado and since then he's been nursing like a newborn the last few weeks. Just the last 3 days or so has he relaxed a little in that department =)
My little man is barely 20 lbs and though I haven't measured him recently, he's growing because I've had to put away a lot of clothes lately based on length. He's still wearing mostly 12-18 month clothes, though the first thing he seems to progress to the next size in is sleepers. I'm hoping we get to take a trip to Manitoba soon because I want to stock up on 18 month sleepers at Superstore!
Noah LOVES many things with great enthusiasm. He is his auntie Stephanie's biggest fan and gets so excited to see her whether in person or praying on the webstream. Noah loves being around people. Around the base, he runs and plays happily and chatters to himself but in public, he's often quieter because he does a lot of people-watching. He's adorable in the car seat...just chilling and staring out the window, sometimes making noises that really sound like he's singing along to the music.
As I mentioned above, Noah seems to be learning new things every day! This week, he's learnt to point to his nose when we ask where it is, to climb into the stroller, stand up and reach for things on the shelf, give open-mouthed kisses, to spin around dancing, to master the slide (even head first!) and he's started copying Shane and I when we cough or sneeze =)
Happy 16 months Noah! You are such a delight and bring so much joy to all those around you!
It seems that he is learning new things every day and it is so fun and fascinating to watch him discover the world around him. It makes simple things like horses, hugs, dancing, snacks, drinks of water, walks down the hallway, ping pong paddles, buses and keys seem like gold. They are major reasons to get VERY excited, wave your arms, raise your eyebrows and pant with sheer joy =) I love this. It has made me get excited about the animals that we can see out our window, the walks around the base that are like adventures and giving a cup of water has a whole new meaning =)
Noah had the flu for the first time earlier this month. It was so sad to see him so sick =( He was so sweet and precious, not fussing, but instead got super quiet and relaxed. It was so weird to see him so stationary! We enjoyed lots of snuggles. He got the flu only 3 days after I returned from my trip to Colorado and since then he's been nursing like a newborn the last few weeks. Just the last 3 days or so has he relaxed a little in that department =)
My little man is barely 20 lbs and though I haven't measured him recently, he's growing because I've had to put away a lot of clothes lately based on length. He's still wearing mostly 12-18 month clothes, though the first thing he seems to progress to the next size in is sleepers. I'm hoping we get to take a trip to Manitoba soon because I want to stock up on 18 month sleepers at Superstore!
Noah LOVES many things with great enthusiasm. He is his auntie Stephanie's biggest fan and gets so excited to see her whether in person or praying on the webstream. Noah loves being around people. Around the base, he runs and plays happily and chatters to himself but in public, he's often quieter because he does a lot of people-watching. He's adorable in the car seat...just chilling and staring out the window, sometimes making noises that really sound like he's singing along to the music.
As I mentioned above, Noah seems to be learning new things every day! This week, he's learnt to point to his nose when we ask where it is, to climb into the stroller, stand up and reach for things on the shelf, give open-mouthed kisses, to spin around dancing, to master the slide (even head first!) and he's started copying Shane and I when we cough or sneeze =)
Happy 16 months Noah! You are such a delight and bring so much joy to all those around you!
Friday, March 29, 2013
From Snowstorms to Sunburns...
The weather in Kansas City can be so extreme! Last weekend, we had a snowstorm. And when they have snowstorms out here, the city goes from green/brown to white in a few short hours. I've never seen it snow that fast! Everything is covered in snow! I love the way the trees look with snow so perfectly placed on all the branches. So pretty!
Then a few days pass by and today we're out in t-shirts, shorts, flip flops and I am dealing with the mild effects of my first sunburn of the year! What a lovely day! Shane, Noah and I went for a walk at the park and Noah discovered a love of slides =) At first he was cautious and looked a little scared, but with daddy encouraging him from the top and mommy waiting at the bottom, plus lots of cheering from both parties, he didn't take long to think this was SO FUN! It was so cute =)
I'm soooo looking forward to spring weather! I wish all of summer could be the temperature it was today, since the summers down here are REALLY hot! Uncomfortably hot.
I'm dreaming of many zoo days, trips to the splash park, walks in the park and fun in the little pool from Grandma and Grandpa Farrow. Noah is in such a different stage this year compared to last. He was interactive but still very much a baby and now he's full into toddlerhood, running, yelling and playing =)
It's going to be a fun summer!
Then a few days pass by and today we're out in t-shirts, shorts, flip flops and I am dealing with the mild effects of my first sunburn of the year! What a lovely day! Shane, Noah and I went for a walk at the park and Noah discovered a love of slides =) At first he was cautious and looked a little scared, but with daddy encouraging him from the top and mommy waiting at the bottom, plus lots of cheering from both parties, he didn't take long to think this was SO FUN! It was so cute =)
I'm soooo looking forward to spring weather! I wish all of summer could be the temperature it was today, since the summers down here are REALLY hot! Uncomfortably hot.
I'm dreaming of many zoo days, trips to the splash park, walks in the park and fun in the little pool from Grandma and Grandpa Farrow. Noah is in such a different stage this year compared to last. He was interactive but still very much a baby and now he's full into toddlerhood, running, yelling and playing =)
It's going to be a fun summer!
Sunday, March 17, 2013
My Time Away in the Mountains...
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending a Captivating Retreat (from the book Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge). The Lord miraculously made a way for me to go on this retreat with 4 other women from my ladies/moms group on Friday afternoons. It was lovely!
I was super torn back in December when I had to decide whether or not I would be going. I just didn't know how Noah or I would do being apart, since up until this last weekend, we hadn't been apart for more than 4 hours. I felt the Lord whisper to me "Come away with Me", despite the fears and panic that seemed overwhelming at the thought of leaving Noah, being in another state and unaccessible.
The Lord is so good and so kind. He wanted me to be there. And He made a way, in many ways. He worked it out that our group was chosen as attendees in the way they select who is chosen. He miraculously provided the funds for the retreat, when I totally was planning on just not going. He allowed me to go with a great group of women and I got the pleasure of getting to know them even more as we were away from the day to day and had a few days to just be women, apart from the roles we play at home. He helped me emotionally, comforted me and gave me peace as I was away from my little boy. He has given me an INCREDIBLE husband who would have packed my bags for me if I chose not to go and did great with Noah while I was gone. He comforted and tended to my little guy who was super happy and cheerful while I was away and enjoyed the daddy time. He even let me fly on an airplane...without an infant in lap.
And, He totally met me.
In many ways, the Lord touched my heart and spoke to me on many levels. I'm so grateful. There is so much He is interested in in my heart, even more than I know or can perceive. He was so intentional about getting me away and He knew I needed it even more than I did. We just needed that time to connect in an uninterrupted way. How special. I'm so thankful and I am so glad He loves me.
I was super torn back in December when I had to decide whether or not I would be going. I just didn't know how Noah or I would do being apart, since up until this last weekend, we hadn't been apart for more than 4 hours. I felt the Lord whisper to me "Come away with Me", despite the fears and panic that seemed overwhelming at the thought of leaving Noah, being in another state and unaccessible.
The Lord is so good and so kind. He wanted me to be there. And He made a way, in many ways. He worked it out that our group was chosen as attendees in the way they select who is chosen. He miraculously provided the funds for the retreat, when I totally was planning on just not going. He allowed me to go with a great group of women and I got the pleasure of getting to know them even more as we were away from the day to day and had a few days to just be women, apart from the roles we play at home. He helped me emotionally, comforted me and gave me peace as I was away from my little boy. He has given me an INCREDIBLE husband who would have packed my bags for me if I chose not to go and did great with Noah while I was gone. He comforted and tended to my little guy who was super happy and cheerful while I was away and enjoyed the daddy time. He even let me fly on an airplane...without an infant in lap.
And, He totally met me.
In many ways, the Lord touched my heart and spoke to me on many levels. I'm so grateful. There is so much He is interested in in my heart, even more than I know or can perceive. He was so intentional about getting me away and He knew I needed it even more than I did. We just needed that time to connect in an uninterrupted way. How special. I'm so thankful and I am so glad He loves me.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Blogger Book Review - Unexpected Love by Julie Zine Coleman
I had the pleasure of reviewing the book Unexpected Love by Julie Zine Coleman and I read it really fast, for me, and gobbled it up! This book was all about God's heart revealed in Jesus' conversations with women. Through 9 chapters, Julie takes you on a journey through different passages of Scripture in which Jesus interacted with and had a conversations with women. Julie starts with fleshing out the story, making the reader feel connected to the woman and her situation. Then, she explores the historical and Biblical contexts, digging deeper through addressing a number of questions that were different for each chapter. Next, she made it applicable to women today in the part For Today's Woman and ending each chapter with some questions to work through and suggestions on ideas to journal.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it interesting, provoking and I just kept wanting to read more! Julie definitely held my attention and the content of this book made me think, process and pray through what I was learning. I enjoyed the way the book was laid out and feel that it covered great information, provoked my heart and gave me practical suggestions to diving deeper into these Scriptures and God's heart on women. I would absolutely recommend this book to others, especially the awesome women I know. I brought this book along to a women's group I'm a part of and it contributed to our dialogue in a great way, provoking the hearts of my girlfriends. They all want to get their hands on a copy!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it interesting, provoking and I just kept wanting to read more! Julie definitely held my attention and the content of this book made me think, process and pray through what I was learning. I enjoyed the way the book was laid out and feel that it covered great information, provoked my heart and gave me practical suggestions to diving deeper into these Scriptures and God's heart on women. I would absolutely recommend this book to others, especially the awesome women I know. I brought this book along to a women's group I'm a part of and it contributed to our dialogue in a great way, provoking the hearts of my girlfriends. They all want to get their hands on a copy!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Sickos and Celebrations
It's been a household of sickos this last week =( Noah and I started with cold symptoms last Monday and it hit Shane super hard on Saturday. My boys had fevers and they have not been feeling well at all =( Prayers for complete healing appreciated =)
During the same week, there were a whole bunch of celebrations between my sister's birthday and Valentine's Day. I love birthdays and quality time with the ones I love! My birthday plans for Steph were effected by the cooler weather on Saturday and my little man at home who wasn't feeling well and really wanting his mommy =( We didn't get to enjoy the zoo as much as I had hoped but there will be more opportunities! We found a precious tea room and LOVED our lunch together there!
Shane and I got to go out for supper on Valentine's Day and it was lovely =) So grateful for a wonderful baby-sitter! Then on Sunday, Shane planned a Valentine's Day brunch and home spa for Steph, her roommate and I =) I have such a sweet husband!
Now we've been enjoying the visits of a bunch of Canadians! It's been a fun week despite sickness!
During the same week, there were a whole bunch of celebrations between my sister's birthday and Valentine's Day. I love birthdays and quality time with the ones I love! My birthday plans for Steph were effected by the cooler weather on Saturday and my little man at home who wasn't feeling well and really wanting his mommy =( We didn't get to enjoy the zoo as much as I had hoped but there will be more opportunities! We found a precious tea room and LOVED our lunch together there!
Shane and I got to go out for supper on Valentine's Day and it was lovely =) So grateful for a wonderful baby-sitter! Then on Sunday, Shane planned a Valentine's Day brunch and home spa for Steph, her roommate and I =) I have such a sweet husband!
Now we've been enjoying the visits of a bunch of Canadians! It's been a fun week despite sickness!
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
The Latest...
Some random thoughts to catch up on the latest:
- Our visit with the in-laws was AWESOME!!!! I could do a whole blog post on my happy feelings about my in-laws. They are so sweet, supportive, loving and generous. I sooooooooo enjoyed our time with them!
- Noah got his first hair cut today! He doesn't have a whole lot of hair on top/front but the back was getting long and he definitely had a baby mullet. I really liked the curls he would get =) But, it was time to trim it up! He looks cute =) And our hairdresser said he was the most well-behaved baby she has ever given a hair cut to! I'm a proud mama!
- We got a zoo pass and I'm sooo pumped! We first went to check out the Kansas City Zoo with my mother-in-law during their visit. I loved it! So, passes are a great deal here and I got my own now! I plan to use it a ton!
- February is full of fun things! Tomorrow is my sister and mom's birthdays! We are going to do a bunch of celebrating this week! Then comes Valentine's Day and Shane and I are going out on a date! Yippee! I'm going to a musical this week and a bunch of Winnipeg friends are coming down for the weekend! Between birthday parties, play dates, coffees and moms gatherings, it's a full and fun month!
- Shane is busy, busy, busy but it's good and we are here for a purpose! God has opened doors and given him places to be effective and influential in his roles. He's doing a bunch of work preparing for the next Call2All Congress in Thailand in May.
- I am heading to Colorado in 3 weeks with a bunch of ladies to attend a Captivating Retreat (for women)! The Lord is drawing me away with Him for 4 days into the mountains. He provided supernaturally for this when I would have just thought it wouldn't have worked. I'm a little nervous about leaving Noah but the Lord has spoken clearly that He wants to draw me away and I know that He will be all comfort to my Noah while I'm away. Shane is going to do awesome and it will be some good boy bonding time =)
Prayer requests:
- Healing for our bodies (Noah and I are fighting off the beginnings of colds, Shane is still dealing with insomnia issues)
- Our visa applications (No word yet...still in initial review stage.)
- The preparation up to and during my weekend away (peace/comfort for our hearts while Noah and I are apart, grace for Shane, that Noah would adapt well to 4 days of cows milk from the sippy cup)
- Provision/monthly support base
- Our visit with the in-laws was AWESOME!!!! I could do a whole blog post on my happy feelings about my in-laws. They are so sweet, supportive, loving and generous. I sooooooooo enjoyed our time with them!
- Noah got his first hair cut today! He doesn't have a whole lot of hair on top/front but the back was getting long and he definitely had a baby mullet. I really liked the curls he would get =) But, it was time to trim it up! He looks cute =) And our hairdresser said he was the most well-behaved baby she has ever given a hair cut to! I'm a proud mama!
- We got a zoo pass and I'm sooo pumped! We first went to check out the Kansas City Zoo with my mother-in-law during their visit. I loved it! So, passes are a great deal here and I got my own now! I plan to use it a ton!
- February is full of fun things! Tomorrow is my sister and mom's birthdays! We are going to do a bunch of celebrating this week! Then comes Valentine's Day and Shane and I are going out on a date! Yippee! I'm going to a musical this week and a bunch of Winnipeg friends are coming down for the weekend! Between birthday parties, play dates, coffees and moms gatherings, it's a full and fun month!
- Shane is busy, busy, busy but it's good and we are here for a purpose! God has opened doors and given him places to be effective and influential in his roles. He's doing a bunch of work preparing for the next Call2All Congress in Thailand in May.
- I am heading to Colorado in 3 weeks with a bunch of ladies to attend a Captivating Retreat (for women)! The Lord is drawing me away with Him for 4 days into the mountains. He provided supernaturally for this when I would have just thought it wouldn't have worked. I'm a little nervous about leaving Noah but the Lord has spoken clearly that He wants to draw me away and I know that He will be all comfort to my Noah while I'm away. Shane is going to do awesome and it will be some good boy bonding time =)
Prayer requests:
- Healing for our bodies (Noah and I are fighting off the beginnings of colds, Shane is still dealing with insomnia issues)
- Our visa applications (No word yet...still in initial review stage.)
- The preparation up to and during my weekend away (peace/comfort for our hearts while Noah and I are apart, grace for Shane, that Noah would adapt well to 4 days of cows milk from the sippy cup)
- Provision/monthly support base
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Let's Take a Poll!!!
I want your vote!
I'm frustrated with blogger because I can't post any more pictures! And we all know that pictures make blogs WAY more fun to read! When I figure out a solution, I have some pictures to post! I haven't forgotten that I was going to post Noah's 1st birthday party back in December =)
So, we are looking into other options that may require a name change. That's where I'd like your help! Can you make some suggestions of names for my blog? I'd love to hear your suggestions!
I'm frustrated with blogger because I can't post any more pictures! And we all know that pictures make blogs WAY more fun to read! When I figure out a solution, I have some pictures to post! I haven't forgotten that I was going to post Noah's 1st birthday party back in December =)
So, we are looking into other options that may require a name change. That's where I'd like your help! Can you make some suggestions of names for my blog? I'd love to hear your suggestions!
Monday, January 21, 2013
They are coming!
Only 48 hours or so until Grandma and Grandpa Farrow arrive!!!! Yay!!!
I am so excited to see my mother-in-law and father-in-law! I have been telling Noah about it for weeks and I'm so excited for family to arrive! It is especially wonderful that Noah will have grandparents around for the week. One of the hardest, if not the hardest, part about being away is not having family near, especially when there are grandparents to your baby involved in the picture =(
I'm sooooooo grateful that the Lord allowed a trip for the in-laws! It was wonderful news when we realized we weren't going to make it back to Manitoba for Christmas and they announced they would come for a visit in just a few weeks! I'm so grateful!
I feel like a kid counting down the days until Christmas =) Come on down, mom and dad Farrow!
I am so excited to see my mother-in-law and father-in-law! I have been telling Noah about it for weeks and I'm so excited for family to arrive! It is especially wonderful that Noah will have grandparents around for the week. One of the hardest, if not the hardest, part about being away is not having family near, especially when there are grandparents to your baby involved in the picture =(
I'm sooooooo grateful that the Lord allowed a trip for the in-laws! It was wonderful news when we realized we weren't going to make it back to Manitoba for Christmas and they announced they would come for a visit in just a few weeks! I'm so grateful!
I feel like a kid counting down the days until Christmas =) Come on down, mom and dad Farrow!
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Real Marriage DVD-Based Study by Mark and Grace Driscoll
Over the past year, Shane and I have been slowing working through the Real Marriage DVD series as date nights at home! We've enjoyed going through this series on our own, even though it is meant for a group and I think it would be fun to go through with a group of married couples!
Real Marriage is both a book and a DVD series tackling issues in marriage and is summed up well in the title "Real Marriage; The Truth about Sex, Friendship and Life Together". The DVD package includes 11 weeks of DVD lessons, a participant guide and a leader manual. Though I was reviewing the DVD package, I also read through the book Real Marriage, since my husband ordered it for his blogger review! It was actually really nice to go through the book and the DVD series at the same time! I found the book expounded a little more than the DVD lessons, though the DVDs were more interactive and allowed us to work through the content together as a couple.
I enjoyed this series and found it a great springboard for discussion on many different topics within my own marriage. I would recommend it to other couples and definitely suggest being a part of a group of friends who would go through it if the opportunity arises. Mark and Grace tackle some very honest and sometimes uncomfortable topics that are necessary to discuss and be honest about if you want an intimate, deep relationship with your spouse. One thing I also liked was that the series is formatted so that someone who is single could do it to and even participate in the activities and homework. There is a section for singles each week.
If you are looking for other resources for group settings or within your own marriage, another DVD series we highly recommend is the Love and Respect series by Emerson Eggerichs!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Real Marriage is both a book and a DVD series tackling issues in marriage and is summed up well in the title "Real Marriage; The Truth about Sex, Friendship and Life Together". The DVD package includes 11 weeks of DVD lessons, a participant guide and a leader manual. Though I was reviewing the DVD package, I also read through the book Real Marriage, since my husband ordered it for his blogger review! It was actually really nice to go through the book and the DVD series at the same time! I found the book expounded a little more than the DVD lessons, though the DVDs were more interactive and allowed us to work through the content together as a couple.
I enjoyed this series and found it a great springboard for discussion on many different topics within my own marriage. I would recommend it to other couples and definitely suggest being a part of a group of friends who would go through it if the opportunity arises. Mark and Grace tackle some very honest and sometimes uncomfortable topics that are necessary to discuss and be honest about if you want an intimate, deep relationship with your spouse. One thing I also liked was that the series is formatted so that someone who is single could do it to and even participate in the activities and homework. There is a section for singles each week.
If you are looking for other resources for group settings or within your own marriage, another DVD series we highly recommend is the Love and Respect series by Emerson Eggerichs!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Saturday, January 12, 2013
A Noah Update!
I realize it's been a while since I've given you an update on my Noah =) So, here's the latest!
He is adorable. I am so in love =)
He is 13 months now and SO MUCH FUN! He talks a whole lot (in his own language), is incredibly smart and super, duper persistent. He moves all the time and I'm asking the Lord how to show me how to teach him to sit since he's always wanting to move, move, move. He runs laps around our little apartment all day long so we venture out into the halls and common areas a few times a day to socialize and burn off some of that energy. He plays hard and loves to climb. He is an explorer and discoverer, especially loving to open cupboards and venture into offices and open doors on the base. He loves the prayer room and runs between beating the drum, strumming the guitar and pounding on the piano =) He will go to just about anyone but he has been really preferring mommy lately.
He's started scrunching his nose and doing a lot of laughing and fake chuckling. He's loves to eat and hums the whole meal through if he likes what he's eating. If he doesn't like it, he makes very unhappy noises the whole time =(
He's the funnest partner grocery shopping and can make the crankiest looking people smile. He's super observant and does a ton of people watching, catching the eye of those who aren't paying attention and then flashing them an award-winning smile =) He really draws people.
He is now sleeping through the night...PRAISE THE LORD! He has been doing some intense teething the last little while, though no new teeth since October. He even bit me again today =(
He has started interacting more with other kids and seems to enjoy it. I'm excited to see these skills grow as he plays with more kids here at the base, on play dates and at Sunday School.
I love that kid! He is just sooooo delightful!
(I still haven't erased pictures so I can post more but I plan to soon!!! Bear with me! I know blogs with pictures are so much more enjoyable to read! And now that I've told you how cute Noah is...you are probably dying to see a recent picture =) )
He is adorable. I am so in love =)
He is 13 months now and SO MUCH FUN! He talks a whole lot (in his own language), is incredibly smart and super, duper persistent. He moves all the time and I'm asking the Lord how to show me how to teach him to sit since he's always wanting to move, move, move. He runs laps around our little apartment all day long so we venture out into the halls and common areas a few times a day to socialize and burn off some of that energy. He plays hard and loves to climb. He is an explorer and discoverer, especially loving to open cupboards and venture into offices and open doors on the base. He loves the prayer room and runs between beating the drum, strumming the guitar and pounding on the piano =) He will go to just about anyone but he has been really preferring mommy lately.
He's started scrunching his nose and doing a lot of laughing and fake chuckling. He's loves to eat and hums the whole meal through if he likes what he's eating. If he doesn't like it, he makes very unhappy noises the whole time =(
He's the funnest partner grocery shopping and can make the crankiest looking people smile. He's super observant and does a ton of people watching, catching the eye of those who aren't paying attention and then flashing them an award-winning smile =) He really draws people.
He is now sleeping through the night...PRAISE THE LORD! He has been doing some intense teething the last little while, though no new teeth since October. He even bit me again today =(
He has started interacting more with other kids and seems to enjoy it. I'm excited to see these skills grow as he plays with more kids here at the base, on play dates and at Sunday School.
I love that kid! He is just sooooo delightful!
(I still haven't erased pictures so I can post more but I plan to soon!!! Bear with me! I know blogs with pictures are so much more enjoyable to read! And now that I've told you how cute Noah is...you are probably dying to see a recent picture =) )
Sunday, January 06, 2013
A New Year Brings New Students...
Happy New Year! I love a new year! I'm looking forward to all the awesome things God has in store for 2013!
The base is buzzing this first week of January! A week ago, our students from the September DTS set out for their outreach to India and the Philippines. 4 days later, a whole new group of students has arrived! The January quarter is a Justice and Compassion focused Intimacy to Impact DTS and it's going to be a good school! They have 21 students from 5 nations and though we aren't directly involved with the school, I look forward to getting to know the students around base and welcoming them to our YWAM family here in KC! We know one of the students from Winnipeg and it's always awesome to have more Canadians around!
Friday was Arrival Day, when the students arrive and those are always exciting day! Noah and I hung out upstairs in the common area for parts of the day to get in on the excitement of new students arriving =) So fun!
Happy New Year!
The base is buzzing this first week of January! A week ago, our students from the September DTS set out for their outreach to India and the Philippines. 4 days later, a whole new group of students has arrived! The January quarter is a Justice and Compassion focused Intimacy to Impact DTS and it's going to be a good school! They have 21 students from 5 nations and though we aren't directly involved with the school, I look forward to getting to know the students around base and welcoming them to our YWAM family here in KC! We know one of the students from Winnipeg and it's always awesome to have more Canadians around!
Friday was Arrival Day, when the students arrive and those are always exciting day! Noah and I hung out upstairs in the common area for parts of the day to get in on the excitement of new students arriving =) So fun!
Happy New Year!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Snow, birds and the care of the Lord...
I just looked outside our patio door windows after putting Noah down for his morning nap and....it's snowing!!! This is my first time seeing big snowflakes falling to the ground this winter! The one and only other snowfall we had happened overnight. I LOVE to watch falling snowflakes. They are beautiful and the creation of God woos and romances my heart for my Creator. I tend to think that every time it snows, it's just for me =) That the Lord is saying "I love you Kristi" =)
The grass is mostly green here and the little birds have been out and about this morning, flying and congregating all over the backyard. It was more noticeable than usual.
My first thought when I saw all the birds and all the snowflakes was "Poor birds...they didn't know what was coming". Then I was reminded of Matthew 6:26,
"Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"
I assumed that the birds saw the snow and thought "oh my goodness...we're in trouble" and found their hearts starting to get anxious about where they would find a warm, dry place and where they would get their next meal if the ground was covered in snow. Wrong.
Our heavenly Father feeds them. They don't have a worry at all.
And of how much more value am I? I need not worry. Ever. Whether my circumstances make it look like a "should". My heavenly Father watches over me and He knows my needs.
"For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow...." Matthew 6:32-24
So not only can I feel loved by the Lord when I see it snowing, I can also meditate on His care and kindness. He will supply all my needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Phil 4:19)!
It's beautiful! Time to light a candle, make a cup of tea and have a little quiet time, preparing my heart for the end of one year and the beginning of another for the 30 minutes my little one will rest =) Let it snow!
The grass is mostly green here and the little birds have been out and about this morning, flying and congregating all over the backyard. It was more noticeable than usual.
My first thought when I saw all the birds and all the snowflakes was "Poor birds...they didn't know what was coming". Then I was reminded of Matthew 6:26,
"Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"
I assumed that the birds saw the snow and thought "oh my goodness...we're in trouble" and found their hearts starting to get anxious about where they would find a warm, dry place and where they would get their next meal if the ground was covered in snow. Wrong.
Our heavenly Father feeds them. They don't have a worry at all.
And of how much more value am I? I need not worry. Ever. Whether my circumstances make it look like a "should". My heavenly Father watches over me and He knows my needs.
"For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow...." Matthew 6:32-24
So not only can I feel loved by the Lord when I see it snowing, I can also meditate on His care and kindness. He will supply all my needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Phil 4:19)!
It's beautiful! Time to light a candle, make a cup of tea and have a little quiet time, preparing my heart for the end of one year and the beginning of another for the 30 minutes my little one will rest =) Let it snow!
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Christmas in Kansas City...
So, no visas this week. Therefore, no visit to Canada for us for Christmas =( I miss family and it doesn't feel like Christmas this year. I reread my last post and realized that it's been 3 years since Christmas felt "normal". 2010 we were on airplanes between North America and Africa, 2011 we were in new parents brain (though it felt more like Christmas) and 2012 we are in KC. We just came from our YWAM base Christmas dinner. It was good, but it still doesn't feel like Christmas.
That has got me thinking a little. I love the traditions and festivities of the Christmas season. I love the snow, the lights, the Christmas tree, the Christmas carols, the parties, the family, the friends, etc, etc. But, I need to think more about the real meaning of Christmas. On years when the traditions and festivities seem absent, I can take it as a special time to lean into the Lord and get revelation about what we celebrate at this time.
Sometimes it is hard to make the time to sit and ponder the incredible miracle of Jesus coming as a baby. It is special to me that we celebrate Jesus' birth in December because my own son was born in the month that we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Last year, I thought a lot about Mary's perspective, caring for a newborn. This year, I've been talking to Noah about Christmas and telling him that we celebrate both Noah's and Jesus' birthday in the same month and how special that is =)
So, I don't know what future years hold. I don't know if what used to be "normal" will ever be normal again. So, "Christmas" and "home" will be wherever I am. Because where I am, Emmanuel, God with us, is with me. He can turn my odd, unfamiliar Christmases into special times of the heart since what I really need is revelation on my heart of the birth of my Savior.
Merry Christmas from my little family to yours! May the Lord breathe on us with revelation about the birth of Jesus!
That has got me thinking a little. I love the traditions and festivities of the Christmas season. I love the snow, the lights, the Christmas tree, the Christmas carols, the parties, the family, the friends, etc, etc. But, I need to think more about the real meaning of Christmas. On years when the traditions and festivities seem absent, I can take it as a special time to lean into the Lord and get revelation about what we celebrate at this time.
Sometimes it is hard to make the time to sit and ponder the incredible miracle of Jesus coming as a baby. It is special to me that we celebrate Jesus' birth in December because my own son was born in the month that we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Last year, I thought a lot about Mary's perspective, caring for a newborn. This year, I've been talking to Noah about Christmas and telling him that we celebrate both Noah's and Jesus' birthday in the same month and how special that is =)
So, I don't know what future years hold. I don't know if what used to be "normal" will ever be normal again. So, "Christmas" and "home" will be wherever I am. Because where I am, Emmanuel, God with us, is with me. He can turn my odd, unfamiliar Christmases into special times of the heart since what I really need is revelation on my heart of the birth of my Savior.
Merry Christmas from my little family to yours! May the Lord breathe on us with revelation about the birth of Jesus!
Sunday, December 16, 2012
I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas....
The beginnings of the festivities have begun and though it hasn't felt like the Christmas season at all, it's starting to a little.
Last year it didn't feel like Christmas because my brain was in a whole new world of being a new mommy and tending to a newborn. This year, as December rolled around, my thoughts were on my little guy's 1st birthday and the whole visa application process. So, December hasn't "felt" like Christmas for the last two years.
Also, there isn't any snow here and that's weird for the Christmas season! I've been in flip flops almost every day since we arrived in June and still am able to wear them most days. We had our ac on yesterday while cooking our Christmas dinner, celebrating early with my sister since she headed back to Canada for the holidays today. She is the only biological family that we will get to celebrate with at this point. To add to the feelings, we don't have any tree or decorations. We left everything back in Canada thinking we would be back in December originally.
There are 5 more business days for a miracle to happen in the visa process if the Lord is going to make a way for us to make it to Canada for Christmas. I would love to show Noah snow and I would love to celebrate with our family and friends. I especially would love to see Noah reunited with his grandparents!
In the last few days I have been feeling peaceful about having Christmas down here in KC, though it will be different than usual. It will mean celebrating with our YWAM family and our brothers and sisters in Jesus instead of our family back home, which is bittersweet. But, it could be a relaxing time with lots of sweet family time, hanging out with my boys =)
I've been feeling some Christmas-y feelings this weekend, getting some gifts and Christmas pictures together, celebrating with my sister, having a base White Elephant party and a spontaneous ice skating trip this afternoon. This Christmas is going to be different than usual but it's still going to be good =)
Last year it didn't feel like Christmas because my brain was in a whole new world of being a new mommy and tending to a newborn. This year, as December rolled around, my thoughts were on my little guy's 1st birthday and the whole visa application process. So, December hasn't "felt" like Christmas for the last two years.
Also, there isn't any snow here and that's weird for the Christmas season! I've been in flip flops almost every day since we arrived in June and still am able to wear them most days. We had our ac on yesterday while cooking our Christmas dinner, celebrating early with my sister since she headed back to Canada for the holidays today. She is the only biological family that we will get to celebrate with at this point. To add to the feelings, we don't have any tree or decorations. We left everything back in Canada thinking we would be back in December originally.
There are 5 more business days for a miracle to happen in the visa process if the Lord is going to make a way for us to make it to Canada for Christmas. I would love to show Noah snow and I would love to celebrate with our family and friends. I especially would love to see Noah reunited with his grandparents!
In the last few days I have been feeling peaceful about having Christmas down here in KC, though it will be different than usual. It will mean celebrating with our YWAM family and our brothers and sisters in Jesus instead of our family back home, which is bittersweet. But, it could be a relaxing time with lots of sweet family time, hanging out with my boys =)
I've been feeling some Christmas-y feelings this weekend, getting some gifts and Christmas pictures together, celebrating with my sister, having a base White Elephant party and a spontaneous ice skating trip this afternoon. This Christmas is going to be different than usual but it's still going to be good =)
Sunday, December 09, 2012
An Emotional Week...
It has been an emotional week for my momma heart! And the tears have been flowing at all kinds of moments =)
First, my little baby turned one! He's not so little anymore and I'm loving who he is and seeing more of his personality all the time. I enjoy his presence in my life and company in our home and day-to-day life so much! I especially love taking the little man out to the prayer room or grocery shopping. He is so.much.fun!
I want to post more on his birthday at another time! We had an awesome party and then Tuesday was a special day for us as a little family celebrating our little 1 year old! Unfortunately, I wanted to post with pictures and blogger says I'm at my maximum amount of pictures. So, I'm not sure what I'm going to do about that one....I don't want to pay for more space. But I know that blogs are so much better with pictures!!!
Back to the emotional momma things....(and for the boys that read this, the next paragraph has a reference to breastfeeding).
Secondly, my baby who has refused breastmilk via bottles or sippy cups up until now, took a sippy cup of cow's milk for the first time this week. It is the first feed that he hasn't needed a breastfeed since he was born. Wow. I can't believe it worked out that I was available every 2-4 hours to provide for his needs and preferences for a whole year. I must say, I'm proud of myself! That's a huge accomplishment! We've skipped a breastfeed two days now and that was a little sad (even though it's a good thing) for my momma heart. I don't plan on weaning him yet but I do know it's good and age-appropriate for him to be able to use the sippy cup too =) I'm definitely not ready to wean!
Thirdly, my kiddo went to Sunday School today. At the church we are going to here in KC, they have to be 1 years old and walking. Since Noah is walking all over now and turned 1 this week, he now qualifies! He ran off playing, yelling with delight and having fun when I dropped him off. I asked the workers a ton of questions, kissed him, told him to enjoy learning about Jesus and that I loved him and headed to the service. I bawled, tears streaming down my face, as my momma heart hurt a little that my little baby is growing up so fast! He needed me an hour into it because he was sad when the free playtime ended and the lesson began. I don't think he necessarily needed/wanted me, he just doesn't like when the toys are put away and he doesn't get to do what he wants =) I joined the class for the rest the of the lesson and he did great =) What a monumental experience in my mommy world =)
It's surprising how emotional the milestone can hit you. I think it's partly because there have been a number of big ones in just a few days. My heart is having to practice letting go and I know I should get familiar with it, since it's just the beginning of the rest of my life as a parent =) Whew! This momma love is intense stuff =) I wouldn't trade it for the world!
First, my little baby turned one! He's not so little anymore and I'm loving who he is and seeing more of his personality all the time. I enjoy his presence in my life and company in our home and day-to-day life so much! I especially love taking the little man out to the prayer room or grocery shopping. He is so.much.fun!
I want to post more on his birthday at another time! We had an awesome party and then Tuesday was a special day for us as a little family celebrating our little 1 year old! Unfortunately, I wanted to post with pictures and blogger says I'm at my maximum amount of pictures. So, I'm not sure what I'm going to do about that one....I don't want to pay for more space. But I know that blogs are so much better with pictures!!!
Back to the emotional momma things....(and for the boys that read this, the next paragraph has a reference to breastfeeding).
Secondly, my baby who has refused breastmilk via bottles or sippy cups up until now, took a sippy cup of cow's milk for the first time this week. It is the first feed that he hasn't needed a breastfeed since he was born. Wow. I can't believe it worked out that I was available every 2-4 hours to provide for his needs and preferences for a whole year. I must say, I'm proud of myself! That's a huge accomplishment! We've skipped a breastfeed two days now and that was a little sad (even though it's a good thing) for my momma heart. I don't plan on weaning him yet but I do know it's good and age-appropriate for him to be able to use the sippy cup too =) I'm definitely not ready to wean!
Thirdly, my kiddo went to Sunday School today. At the church we are going to here in KC, they have to be 1 years old and walking. Since Noah is walking all over now and turned 1 this week, he now qualifies! He ran off playing, yelling with delight and having fun when I dropped him off. I asked the workers a ton of questions, kissed him, told him to enjoy learning about Jesus and that I loved him and headed to the service. I bawled, tears streaming down my face, as my momma heart hurt a little that my little baby is growing up so fast! He needed me an hour into it because he was sad when the free playtime ended and the lesson began. I don't think he necessarily needed/wanted me, he just doesn't like when the toys are put away and he doesn't get to do what he wants =) I joined the class for the rest the of the lesson and he did great =) What a monumental experience in my mommy world =)
It's surprising how emotional the milestone can hit you. I think it's partly because there have been a number of big ones in just a few days. My heart is having to practice letting go and I know I should get familiar with it, since it's just the beginning of the rest of my life as a parent =) Whew! This momma love is intense stuff =) I wouldn't trade it for the world!
Thursday, December 06, 2012
The Eleventh Hour
Here we are. December 6th and we are still in the USA! So, this is how the story goes...
Lots and lots of emails to and from the lawyer. Many moments when we thought we were done. Then more emails asking for more documents. Another email like this Monday afternoon. Deadline coming. Would have to leave for Canada on Tuesday morning for Noah's sake (to break up the trip over two days). Scary moments. Faith-filled moments. Despite the "oh boy" feeling that came with each new email of more things needed, a level of peace reigned here.
Monday evening. No word yet. Put Noah to bed for the night. Haven't packed a thing. Possibly would need to leave in the morning. Haven't been thinking of that a lot throughout the day. 7pm. We get an email from the lawyer!!! The paperwork was sent by Fed X and our applications have been filed!!! 12 hours before we could have left! Talk about eleventh hour breakthrough!
So, now we wait. It could be 30 days. It could be 5 months. We are praying for 2 weeks so we can make it back to Canada for Christmas, to celebrate Noah's birthday with our families and to deal with the ton of details that we need to figure out if we are staying down here longer.
That's the latest! God is faithful and we continue to trust Him through this crazy journey of faith and adventure!
Lots and lots of emails to and from the lawyer. Many moments when we thought we were done. Then more emails asking for more documents. Another email like this Monday afternoon. Deadline coming. Would have to leave for Canada on Tuesday morning for Noah's sake (to break up the trip over two days). Scary moments. Faith-filled moments. Despite the "oh boy" feeling that came with each new email of more things needed, a level of peace reigned here.
Monday evening. No word yet. Put Noah to bed for the night. Haven't packed a thing. Possibly would need to leave in the morning. Haven't been thinking of that a lot throughout the day. 7pm. We get an email from the lawyer!!! The paperwork was sent by Fed X and our applications have been filed!!! 12 hours before we could have left! Talk about eleventh hour breakthrough!
So, now we wait. It could be 30 days. It could be 5 months. We are praying for 2 weeks so we can make it back to Canada for Christmas, to celebrate Noah's birthday with our families and to deal with the ton of details that we need to figure out if we are staying down here longer.
That's the latest! God is faithful and we continue to trust Him through this crazy journey of faith and adventure!
Saturday, December 01, 2012
What We're Up To!
I've gotten behind on my blogging!
Then, the other day, I came on here to upload some pictures and it said that I'm maxed on the space I have to upload pics. Weird. I gotta figure that out sometime soon.
So, in the meantime, a quick point form version of what we're up to lately!
- Noah is walking!! That's a new accomplishment and now that he's figured out how (at 11.5 months), he's walking everywhere.
- Noah is growing up! It seems as though I don't have a baby anymore....but more so a toddler. Noah is getting more verbal (including louder and more aggressive), has temper tantrums when we take things away and just plain knows what he wants =)
- I have been busy preparing for Noah's first birthday party tomorrow! My sister is coming over this afternoon and we are going to bake up a storm! 75 cupcakes! So far, there's about 50 people planning on coming to his party tomorrow afternoon. That's just what happens when you live in community! It's hard to limit the people you invite to the party. So, I limited it to people that interact with Noah....and since so many people love him, it was hard to make it small =) It is going to be a safari theme for my little monkey who loves to climb everything =)
- Paperwork, paperwork and more paperwork. We have had a very busy week getting paperwork together for our visa process for the lawyer we are working with. It's had stressful moments since we are close to our deadline of December 5 (when we have to have our application in by at the latest). We hope that we sent the last of the documents yesterday and hope to hear soon that the application has been filed!
- Trusting in the Lord. That is part of this crazy adventure. It takes faith to believe that everything is going to go smoothly when we don't have certainty on what next week looks like or which country we'll be in. In this process the Lord revealed to me that my job is praising Him and thanking Him and He'll take care of the rest. I'm trying to lean into Him in the midst of the uncertainties. Sometimes it's exciting and sometimes it's scary!
That's just a snapshot of some of the latest in our lives! Hopefully we'll have some clarity soon and we hope, hope, hope that the visas will get approved quickly so we can make it back to Canada for the holidays =)
Then, the other day, I came on here to upload some pictures and it said that I'm maxed on the space I have to upload pics. Weird. I gotta figure that out sometime soon.
So, in the meantime, a quick point form version of what we're up to lately!
- Noah is walking!! That's a new accomplishment and now that he's figured out how (at 11.5 months), he's walking everywhere.
- Noah is growing up! It seems as though I don't have a baby anymore....but more so a toddler. Noah is getting more verbal (including louder and more aggressive), has temper tantrums when we take things away and just plain knows what he wants =)
- I have been busy preparing for Noah's first birthday party tomorrow! My sister is coming over this afternoon and we are going to bake up a storm! 75 cupcakes! So far, there's about 50 people planning on coming to his party tomorrow afternoon. That's just what happens when you live in community! It's hard to limit the people you invite to the party. So, I limited it to people that interact with Noah....and since so many people love him, it was hard to make it small =) It is going to be a safari theme for my little monkey who loves to climb everything =)
- Paperwork, paperwork and more paperwork. We have had a very busy week getting paperwork together for our visa process for the lawyer we are working with. It's had stressful moments since we are close to our deadline of December 5 (when we have to have our application in by at the latest). We hope that we sent the last of the documents yesterday and hope to hear soon that the application has been filed!
- Trusting in the Lord. That is part of this crazy adventure. It takes faith to believe that everything is going to go smoothly when we don't have certainty on what next week looks like or which country we'll be in. In this process the Lord revealed to me that my job is praising Him and thanking Him and He'll take care of the rest. I'm trying to lean into Him in the midst of the uncertainties. Sometimes it's exciting and sometimes it's scary!
That's just a snapshot of some of the latest in our lives! Hopefully we'll have some clarity soon and we hope, hope, hope that the visas will get approved quickly so we can make it back to Canada for the holidays =)
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