Noah and I will be on our way to Canada in 5 days =) I'm looking forward to seeing our family and friends in Canada again!
Noah has been talking about "plane & sky" and "mama & bappa"! He knows we are going to be flying on a plane and going to see his beloved grandparents. So special!
I'm thankful for this time and that it is just before his 2nd birthday and the Christmas season. It makes it even more special =)
If you are praying for us next Wednesday, please pray for our flight. I'm hoping and praying that my active toddler will be able to sit on my lap well =)
Friday, November 15, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
3 weeks away...
A few weeks ago, I started thinking a lot about the idea of visiting Manitoba again. I think it had to do with looking at a photo book every morning with my toddler of our trip in July. It made me want to see all my parents again. And Grandma Helen got a new play structure and wanted Noah to see it. I wanted him to see it to.
One night, Shane throws out the comment that maybe I should go with Noah on one last flight before he's 2 in December. And my heart and mind snatched the idea and ran with it that evening and the following days =)
In the last few weeks, we started to realize our original plan to return for Christmas wasn't going to happen for a number of reasons. But the idea of coming for a visit in November was still on my heart and in my prayers. It was looking impossible financially but we kept praying about it.
Well, last week it came together. The peace dropped in our hearts. $400 came in toward a ticket. And I book it =) We're going to see our family again in 2013 =) Yay! Thank you Jesus!
3 weeks today at this time, I'll be hanging out in Manitoba at one of our parents' houses and enjoying some family time =) And I'm guessing I'll be cold in the "northern" climate again =)
One night, Shane throws out the comment that maybe I should go with Noah on one last flight before he's 2 in December. And my heart and mind snatched the idea and ran with it that evening and the following days =)
In the last few weeks, we started to realize our original plan to return for Christmas wasn't going to happen for a number of reasons. But the idea of coming for a visit in November was still on my heart and in my prayers. It was looking impossible financially but we kept praying about it.
Well, last week it came together. The peace dropped in our hearts. $400 came in toward a ticket. And I book it =) We're going to see our family again in 2013 =) Yay! Thank you Jesus!
3 weeks today at this time, I'll be hanging out in Manitoba at one of our parents' houses and enjoying some family time =) And I'm guessing I'll be cold in the "northern" climate again =)
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Family Time!
I sure love family time =) My boys are such a joy to me and I LOVE spending time with them!
Today we visited our first pumpkin patch! I don't remember hearing about pumpkin patches in Canada...though they may be there. But they sure seem big here in the midwest.
Last year, we went to a corn maze with some free tickets and right next door was a very cool and fun looking pumpkin patch! I wanted to do that next year! So, next year is here and I have a very energetic toddler that loves animals, tractors, trains and pumpkins these days and all these things are found at that pumpkin patch! So, thankfully I found a steal of a deal (free admission) on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4-6pm! So we went!
Noah LOVED the train. He LOVED the tractors and went on his first hay ride! And he squealed with delight feeding the goats from his hand =) That was possibly the best part to watch =)
Yay for fall! Yay for family time!
Today we visited our first pumpkin patch! I don't remember hearing about pumpkin patches in Canada...though they may be there. But they sure seem big here in the midwest.
Last year, we went to a corn maze with some free tickets and right next door was a very cool and fun looking pumpkin patch! I wanted to do that next year! So, next year is here and I have a very energetic toddler that loves animals, tractors, trains and pumpkins these days and all these things are found at that pumpkin patch! So, thankfully I found a steal of a deal (free admission) on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4-6pm! So we went!
Noah LOVED the train. He LOVED the tractors and went on his first hay ride! And he squealed with delight feeding the goats from his hand =) That was possibly the best part to watch =)
Yay for fall! Yay for family time!
Wednesday, October 09, 2013
22 Months Now!
My adorable little boy is 22 months now! Only 2 short months and we'll be celebrating his 2nd birthday! I asked him the other day what he wants for his birthday party. He said two things...aunties and mowers. So we will try to invite his favorite KC aunties and have a mower-type theme =)
Noah is learning new words daily! He surprises us! His vocabulary is already at 75-100 words and he's starting to say phrases and it is so adorable!
The other day, he woke from his nap, sat up, sighed, smiled and reclined, folding his hands and said "Let's pray!". Hilarious! I asked who we should pray for and he said "Nana!" (that is the only person he suggests we pray for....Nana is Auntie Stephanie). He usually suggests we pray for her and then waits quietly while I do the praying. This time, he prayed along with me out loud =) So cute!
Noah is growing and growing! He is growing out of a bunch of his clothes and is already too tall for the sleepers we bought in Canada in July! Wow! Others around the base have been making comments that he seems to be growing inches over night these days!
In celebration of 22 months, I weighed and measured Noah. He is a whopping 23.5 lbs now and 33.25 inches (2 feet 9.25 inches). Such cuteness to me!
He continues to show us so many parts of his personality and character. He is smart and very perceptive. He is tender and compassionate, especially if he hears someone crying. He is super duper friendly, loving to talk with strangers and saying hi to everyone he passes. He has a gift for names...amazingly remembering the names of some people he's only met once. He has more energy than anyone I know. He has a strong love for mowers, cars, trains and animals these days. He also loves bedtime. Glory!
Happy 22 Months, little guy! You are a joy to our family!
Noah is learning new words daily! He surprises us! His vocabulary is already at 75-100 words and he's starting to say phrases and it is so adorable!
The other day, he woke from his nap, sat up, sighed, smiled and reclined, folding his hands and said "Let's pray!". Hilarious! I asked who we should pray for and he said "Nana!" (that is the only person he suggests we pray for....Nana is Auntie Stephanie). He usually suggests we pray for her and then waits quietly while I do the praying. This time, he prayed along with me out loud =) So cute!
Noah is growing and growing! He is growing out of a bunch of his clothes and is already too tall for the sleepers we bought in Canada in July! Wow! Others around the base have been making comments that he seems to be growing inches over night these days!
In celebration of 22 months, I weighed and measured Noah. He is a whopping 23.5 lbs now and 33.25 inches (2 feet 9.25 inches). Such cuteness to me!
He continues to show us so many parts of his personality and character. He is smart and very perceptive. He is tender and compassionate, especially if he hears someone crying. He is super duper friendly, loving to talk with strangers and saying hi to everyone he passes. He has a gift for names...amazingly remembering the names of some people he's only met once. He has more energy than anyone I know. He has a strong love for mowers, cars, trains and animals these days. He also loves bedtime. Glory!
Happy 22 Months, little guy! You are a joy to our family!
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Blessings from the Lord as a woman, wife and mother...
Last weekend was our first Missional Woman's Conference here at YWAM-KC! It was fun to participate as part of the team and see and experience the Lord blessing us as women and mothers. I had the great privilege of heading up the personal prayer ministry and I LOVE seeing women encounter Jesus, feel His nearness and hear His approval over them. What a blessing to be a part of that! The messages were good with a big focus this year on family, generational blessings/curses and making your home a house of prayer for your family. Worship was awesome =) I'm already getting ideas for next year's conference!
One big treasure was having some lovely Winnipeg gals join us for the conference. I was so grateful to have a connecting girls day lunch with Jacquie, Corrie and Stephanie, just like girls day back in the homeland, but in a different place =) We got to take them to Henry's Tea Room, which is such a feminine place and unique experience, away from the normal places you may go! It was awesome to see them, receive from the Lord in the same room and see the Lord envision and encounter my friends. It was so great to have them see in real time, where we live, the people we work with and some of the things we do =) So neat!
Then to top it off, I got to go to the IHOP Moms Gathering this last Thursday. I feel so blessed. Linda Hackett spoke and Carol Hall did worship and the Lord met me in a number of ways that evening. I feel blessed by the Lord to be here in Kansas City as this stage of my life as a mom of a young child. He is so kind and knows just what my heart needs.
One big treasure was having some lovely Winnipeg gals join us for the conference. I was so grateful to have a connecting girls day lunch with Jacquie, Corrie and Stephanie, just like girls day back in the homeland, but in a different place =) We got to take them to Henry's Tea Room, which is such a feminine place and unique experience, away from the normal places you may go! It was awesome to see them, receive from the Lord in the same room and see the Lord envision and encounter my friends. It was so great to have them see in real time, where we live, the people we work with and some of the things we do =) So neat!
Then to top it off, I got to go to the IHOP Moms Gathering this last Thursday. I feel so blessed. Linda Hackett spoke and Carol Hall did worship and the Lord met me in a number of ways that evening. I feel blessed by the Lord to be here in Kansas City as this stage of my life as a mom of a young child. He is so kind and knows just what my heart needs.
Monday, September 16, 2013
The 1st Missional Woman's Conference is almost here!
On Friday, YWAM-KC is having our first and hopefully annual Missional Woman's Conference! It is going to be an AWESOME time of teaching, learning, worshiping and encountering Jesus together as women! I'm totally pumped about the speakers, topics and worship that we will partake of! Check it out www.ywamkc.org/mwc!
The next few days are busy ones as we prepare our campus for 200 women to join us!
Please pray for our team this week as we prepare and for every women who will be here this weekend! We want to encounter Jesus in an incredible way!
The next few days are busy ones as we prepare our campus for 200 women to join us!
Please pray for our team this week as we prepare and for every women who will be here this weekend! We want to encounter Jesus in an incredible way!
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
We're Not in Canada Anymore Moment - Episode 3
...except this is actually going to be a "Wow. We are back in Canada" moment from our trip in July =)
I'm getting a little fuzzy on all the moments I first had back in the homeland when I remembered I wasn't in the USA anymore, but I'll try to remember a few of them because they were interesting!
First of all....the speed limit. Driving around Winnipeg, the general signs you see say 60. I've gotten so used to looking at the small numbers in miles on my speedometer that it took some getting used to to switch my eyes back to the kms. 60 miles down St.Mary's would NOT be a good idea! I had to get used to the switch because I found myself going a little fast at the beginning.
Second....the roads. I loved driving around Winnipeg! There are only 2 lanes of traffic in one direction...not an interstate of many, many lanes. I know how to get everywhere and everything felt so familiar =) I could get to most places (the mall, Starbucks, church, grocery store, etc) in 5 minutes or so. How wonderful!
Third....poutine. We went to the mall and had poutine for lunch on the first day. Enough said.
Fourth....the license plates. I felt a little culture shock looking at the all the license plates around me as I drove. I'm so used to seeing Missouri and Kansas and suddenly everyone has Manitoba plates! I still have one too but I never see it when I'm driving =)
Fifth...the money. Yes, I love loonies and twoonies and the different colored bills =)
Six...the atmosphere. Canada just plain feels different. It felt safer. It felt cleaner. It felt smaller. I really liked all these things and never noticed them before. Ahhhh....I love Canada.
Seven...perogies and farmer sausage. I love this food and we can't get it here =( My neighbors have no clue what farmer sausage even is! Noah LOVED the farmer sausage but would hardly even try the perogies for some reason. We ate a lot of it during our 3 weeks =)
Eight...the people. Canada is so multicultural. I love seeing all the nationalities!
Nine...the temperature. Well....the lack of humidity really. It felt cold at 28 degrees when you weren't in the sun! Strange! I like the dry heat =)
And let's see if I can remember a tenth....
Ah yes...Superstore and all the brands I am familiar with and prefer! It was great to walk through the store and stock up on things I like and can't find in the USA....like creamed honey. And Sweedish Berries. And Oreo baking crumbs for cheesecake. And D drops for Noah. And a few articles of Joe clothing from Grandma =)
Wow. We were back in Canada! And hopefully it won't be too long until we can come again!
I'm getting a little fuzzy on all the moments I first had back in the homeland when I remembered I wasn't in the USA anymore, but I'll try to remember a few of them because they were interesting!
First of all....the speed limit. Driving around Winnipeg, the general signs you see say 60. I've gotten so used to looking at the small numbers in miles on my speedometer that it took some getting used to to switch my eyes back to the kms. 60 miles down St.Mary's would NOT be a good idea! I had to get used to the switch because I found myself going a little fast at the beginning.
Second....the roads. I loved driving around Winnipeg! There are only 2 lanes of traffic in one direction...not an interstate of many, many lanes. I know how to get everywhere and everything felt so familiar =) I could get to most places (the mall, Starbucks, church, grocery store, etc) in 5 minutes or so. How wonderful!
Third....poutine. We went to the mall and had poutine for lunch on the first day. Enough said.
Fourth....the license plates. I felt a little culture shock looking at the all the license plates around me as I drove. I'm so used to seeing Missouri and Kansas and suddenly everyone has Manitoba plates! I still have one too but I never see it when I'm driving =)
Fifth...the money. Yes, I love loonies and twoonies and the different colored bills =)
Six...the atmosphere. Canada just plain feels different. It felt safer. It felt cleaner. It felt smaller. I really liked all these things and never noticed them before. Ahhhh....I love Canada.
Seven...perogies and farmer sausage. I love this food and we can't get it here =( My neighbors have no clue what farmer sausage even is! Noah LOVED the farmer sausage but would hardly even try the perogies for some reason. We ate a lot of it during our 3 weeks =)
Eight...the people. Canada is so multicultural. I love seeing all the nationalities!
Nine...the temperature. Well....the lack of humidity really. It felt cold at 28 degrees when you weren't in the sun! Strange! I like the dry heat =)
And let's see if I can remember a tenth....
Ah yes...Superstore and all the brands I am familiar with and prefer! It was great to walk through the store and stock up on things I like and can't find in the USA....like creamed honey. And Sweedish Berries. And Oreo baking crumbs for cheesecake. And D drops for Noah. And a few articles of Joe clothing from Grandma =)
Wow. We were back in Canada! And hopefully it won't be too long until we can come again!
Thursday, August 22, 2013
The Latest in Life...
Lots has been happening over here in the last few weeks...making meals for all the women who have had new babies on the base, reconnecting with friends, prepping for our upcoming womens conference (check it out! www.ywamkc.org/mwc), baby shower, playdates, prayer room evenings and much more.
Some of the highlights??? My sister is back! Yay! She returned last week and we are so glad! Noah is SOOOOO happy to have auntie around again =) Though she was "auntie" before she left this summer and is now "nana" or "nani" =)
Another.....my hubby had another birthday! And we got to have a date to celebrate! We hadn't taken an official date since Steph was here in June so it was time. I love that man and it is WONDERFUL to see how the Lord is molding and shaping him over the last 14 birthdays we've celebrated together =) Wow. I can't believe we've been together that long!
A personal highlight for me was spending last week in the evenings learning, receiving and worshiping with the Circuit Rider crew. The Lord met with me, spoke to me and touched my heart. I am hungry for more! I am so grateful for the opportunities and resources here to meet with Jesus and learn about Him. So thankful =) It was also refreshing to enjoy worshiping the Lord through dance again. A few of the nights, the lights were dimmed and the building was kinda empty compared to the usual EGS/FCF services...which means more room to worship! It felt like those good old Vineyard worship days...ahhh. So good!
Now we are in the midst of a packed week of staff development. It has been great to gather all the different parts of the YWAM KC family and worship, learn and grow together the last few days. Thankfully I have some awesome friends who have helped watch Noah =) God is doing good things and I'm reminded again of how grateful I am that He drew us to Kansas City at this time and allowed us to be involved in what He's doing in the prayer and mission movements!
Some of the highlights??? My sister is back! Yay! She returned last week and we are so glad! Noah is SOOOOO happy to have auntie around again =) Though she was "auntie" before she left this summer and is now "nana" or "nani" =)
Another.....my hubby had another birthday! And we got to have a date to celebrate! We hadn't taken an official date since Steph was here in June so it was time. I love that man and it is WONDERFUL to see how the Lord is molding and shaping him over the last 14 birthdays we've celebrated together =) Wow. I can't believe we've been together that long!
A personal highlight for me was spending last week in the evenings learning, receiving and worshiping with the Circuit Rider crew. The Lord met with me, spoke to me and touched my heart. I am hungry for more! I am so grateful for the opportunities and resources here to meet with Jesus and learn about Him. So thankful =) It was also refreshing to enjoy worshiping the Lord through dance again. A few of the nights, the lights were dimmed and the building was kinda empty compared to the usual EGS/FCF services...which means more room to worship! It felt like those good old Vineyard worship days...ahhh. So good!
Now we are in the midst of a packed week of staff development. It has been great to gather all the different parts of the YWAM KC family and worship, learn and grow together the last few days. Thankfully I have some awesome friends who have helped watch Noah =) God is doing good things and I'm reminded again of how grateful I am that He drew us to Kansas City at this time and allowed us to be involved in what He's doing in the prayer and mission movements!
Saturday, August 03, 2013
A Long Awaited Update!
Well, it has been quite the month since I last blogged! I actually am surprised that it has been that long! Since I last wrote, we have planned a trip to Canada and come and gone already!
We had the delight of spending the last 3 weeks in Canada and focused our time with our family, whom we hadn't seen in a year. It was a special time with family and one of the most cherished parts was seeing Noah with his grandparents again. He is in love and they all are in love in return =)
Sadly, even with 3 weeks, we didn't get to see all the people we wanted to =( Managing our schedule was one of the hardest parts of the trip. We felt too busy and at times overwhelmed by all the visits, yet our hearts wanted to connect with so many more people than we did. This whole living far away deal and wanted to connect when home deal doesn't work so well =(
I thought of blogging actually. Because I had a number of "oh my word. I am in Canada again!" moments, especially at the beginning of the trip! I'll have to blog that in a separate one =) It was SO GREAT to be in the homeland =)
We arrived back in Kansas City yesterday afternoon and are spending the weekend getting settled back into our new home. Well, it's the same one that we've been in for 15 months, minus 6 weeks, but somehow my heart and mind have to process things a little differently now that I know our assignment here is for a longer period officially. It might take a little processing of the mind and heart after living in limbo land for a year...
Lots of thoughts....but that's all for now...
We had the delight of spending the last 3 weeks in Canada and focused our time with our family, whom we hadn't seen in a year. It was a special time with family and one of the most cherished parts was seeing Noah with his grandparents again. He is in love and they all are in love in return =)
Sadly, even with 3 weeks, we didn't get to see all the people we wanted to =( Managing our schedule was one of the hardest parts of the trip. We felt too busy and at times overwhelmed by all the visits, yet our hearts wanted to connect with so many more people than we did. This whole living far away deal and wanted to connect when home deal doesn't work so well =(
I thought of blogging actually. Because I had a number of "oh my word. I am in Canada again!" moments, especially at the beginning of the trip! I'll have to blog that in a separate one =) It was SO GREAT to be in the homeland =)
We arrived back in Kansas City yesterday afternoon and are spending the weekend getting settled back into our new home. Well, it's the same one that we've been in for 15 months, minus 6 weeks, but somehow my heart and mind have to process things a little differently now that I know our assignment here is for a longer period officially. It might take a little processing of the mind and heart after living in limbo land for a year...
Lots of thoughts....but that's all for now...
Thursday, June 27, 2013
We're Not In Canda Anymore Moment - Episode 2
I had another evening with that occasional, unfamiliar, slightly out of place feeling that led me to realize again...we're not in Canada anymore folks.
My lovely friend and neighbor is having a baby and I went with some other ladies from our base to her baby shower the other night. As the evening conversation is flowing, a number of moments remind me that indeed, I am a foreigner.
Firstly, when mace on your key chain and a loaded gun concealed under your clothes enters the conversation, you know you are not in Canada.
Secondly, when talking about what people might rob from a Dollar General store.....what in the world is a ding dong? Or a ho ho? To be honest, I just goggled them for a visual. Again, you know you are not in Canada.
There you have it folks. Though it seems as though there wouldn't be large differences since we are on the same body of land, same continent and generally what you would think is the same culture, do not be fooled!
We are not in Canada anymore. These moments prove it.
My lovely friend and neighbor is having a baby and I went with some other ladies from our base to her baby shower the other night. As the evening conversation is flowing, a number of moments remind me that indeed, I am a foreigner.
Firstly, when mace on your key chain and a loaded gun concealed under your clothes enters the conversation, you know you are not in Canada.
Secondly, when talking about what people might rob from a Dollar General store.....what in the world is a ding dong? Or a ho ho? To be honest, I just goggled them for a visual. Again, you know you are not in Canada.
There you have it folks. Though it seems as though there wouldn't be large differences since we are on the same body of land, same continent and generally what you would think is the same culture, do not be fooled!
We are not in Canada anymore. These moments prove it.
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Great News!
We have GREAT news!
Instead of taking 30-45 days, we have heard from the lawyer in just 2.5 weeks! What a delightful surprise! Shane got an email last Sunday, on Father's Day as he was getting out of bed. I wanted to share it days ago but we had a few people we needed to contact first so instead I hinted on my last post that it was a great day with moments of happiness =)
Our visas are approved!!!! Until December 2015! Wowers.
Before I take the time to let that sink in, all I can think about is a trip home to Canada! A long-awaited trip to the homeland! I'm so excited! I can't wait to be reunited with my fam and especially for Noah to spend some time with his grandparents, aunts and uncles!
We are awaiting papers in the mail and when they arrive, we can make a trip! So, we hope to see them arrive this week so we can begin making plans!
Yay! Let the celebration begin!
Instead of taking 30-45 days, we have heard from the lawyer in just 2.5 weeks! What a delightful surprise! Shane got an email last Sunday, on Father's Day as he was getting out of bed. I wanted to share it days ago but we had a few people we needed to contact first so instead I hinted on my last post that it was a great day with moments of happiness =)
Our visas are approved!!!! Until December 2015! Wowers.
Before I take the time to let that sink in, all I can think about is a trip home to Canada! A long-awaited trip to the homeland! I'm so excited! I can't wait to be reunited with my fam and especially for Noah to spend some time with his grandparents, aunts and uncles!
We are awaiting papers in the mail and when they arrive, we can make a trip! So, we hope to see them arrive this week so we can begin making plans!
Yay! Let the celebration begin!
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Celebrations!
I love special celebration days! And this week we got to celebrate on 2 special days!
Wednesday was our 9th Anniversary! We had a special celebration this year, relishing the fact that Noah's beloved Auntie Stephanie was in town and able to be with him all day long =) We really enjoying that and with the blessing of Shane's boss, we took the day to be together. So. Lovely!
We started the day off right....in the prayer room getting prophetic ministry =) Then we headed to the Plaza (a ritzy area of town with shops and fountains), walked around and ate Brazilian BBQ for the first time! Shane LOVES meat so it was special to try a new place that was all about meat =) We had been given a Starbuck's gift card specifically to celebrate our anniversary so we hit up Starbuck's and another walk after lunch, before heading back to check in with Steph and Noah. The little man was happy to see us and we hung out for a bit before heading out once more to wander the aisles of Target and try on some glasses. I'm in the market for new ones! We relaxed at home in the evening and got to spend some time with Stephanie. What a lovely day!
And then today! Father's Day! It was a nice day, full of family quality time and moments of happiness =) We tried a new park, played outside, napped, played in the toy aisles at Walmart and I picked up Chipotle for my hubby for supper =) I also had to bake him his own cake =)
I love reasons to celebrate good things, beloved people and special milestones!
Wednesday was our 9th Anniversary! We had a special celebration this year, relishing the fact that Noah's beloved Auntie Stephanie was in town and able to be with him all day long =) We really enjoying that and with the blessing of Shane's boss, we took the day to be together. So. Lovely!
We started the day off right....in the prayer room getting prophetic ministry =) Then we headed to the Plaza (a ritzy area of town with shops and fountains), walked around and ate Brazilian BBQ for the first time! Shane LOVES meat so it was special to try a new place that was all about meat =) We had been given a Starbuck's gift card specifically to celebrate our anniversary so we hit up Starbuck's and another walk after lunch, before heading back to check in with Steph and Noah. The little man was happy to see us and we hung out for a bit before heading out once more to wander the aisles of Target and try on some glasses. I'm in the market for new ones! We relaxed at home in the evening and got to spend some time with Stephanie. What a lovely day!
And then today! Father's Day! It was a nice day, full of family quality time and moments of happiness =) We tried a new park, played outside, napped, played in the toy aisles at Walmart and I picked up Chipotle for my hubby for supper =) I also had to bake him his own cake =)
I love reasons to celebrate good things, beloved people and special milestones!
Sunday, June 09, 2013
Pictures! Pictures! Pictures!
This week we borrowed a camera from a friend on base and my lovely sister took some pictures of our family! We drove to a little lake nearby that she recently discovered and took some pictures of our family of 3. I love them =) I am so blessed to have my boys to journey through life with =)
Today, Steph and I went outside to take some pictures of Noah for a little 18 month photo shoot. He did so great and turned on some great moves =) He is SUCH a handsome boy!
Sadly, I still haven't figured out how to post pictures on here =( But, I uploaded a few to facebook! Check it out!
Today, Steph and I went outside to take some pictures of Noah for a little 18 month photo shoot. He did so great and turned on some great moves =) He is SUCH a handsome boy!
Sadly, I still haven't figured out how to post pictures on here =( But, I uploaded a few to facebook! Check it out!
Monday, June 03, 2013
THINGS ARE MOVING FORWARD!!!
After a long delay in our visa process, we received great news last week!
We have been waiting on the further documentation the government asked for and that whole step in the process began way back in February. It has had many challenging moments...as you've read along the way.
The accountant was able to gather all the information....and there was a ton of information they were asking for. We assumed it would take weeks for the lawyer to process all of it before submitting it. Alas, we were wrong for the better!!!! As of last Thursday we got an email saying it has been filed!!!! We should hear something from the government in the next 30-45 days! What glorious news!
We are anticipating a summer trip home to Canada =) It has been way too long since we've seen loved ones....especially since Noah has seen his aunts, uncles, grandpas and grandmas!
Thank you Lord for this news!
We have been waiting on the further documentation the government asked for and that whole step in the process began way back in February. It has had many challenging moments...as you've read along the way.
The accountant was able to gather all the information....and there was a ton of information they were asking for. We assumed it would take weeks for the lawyer to process all of it before submitting it. Alas, we were wrong for the better!!!! As of last Thursday we got an email saying it has been filed!!!! We should hear something from the government in the next 30-45 days! What glorious news!
We are anticipating a summer trip home to Canada =) It has been way too long since we've seen loved ones....especially since Noah has seen his aunts, uncles, grandpas and grandmas!
Thank you Lord for this news!
Monday, May 27, 2013
A Few Cute Noah Tidbits...
Our little toddler has totally captured our hearts! He's such a delight!
A few tidbits on life with Noah these days...
- on the go constantly....yesterday at church, I was in the toddler room and the lady next to me (whom I don't know) says to me "Wow. He's busy! I thought my daughter was busy but he's way busier!". He is a quick little guy and can run fast!
- getting more and more verbal....he is able to communicate a bunch between a few sounds/words and few signs. He is very expressive! Noah will talk in the van all the way to the store, down the aisles and all the way home. He especially likes to talk to the cashier and try to get people who look preoccupied and busy to look at him. He smiles at them and tries to get their attention =)
- full of affection...Noah loves people! He seems to really care about how people are doing and feeling and always has a hug to give. He wraps his little arms around your neck and squeezes. He gives the best hugs! Even to all the strangers on the playground =) Yesterday in the toddler room at church, I watched him connect with every family in there. It appears he has a caring, pastoral heart already =)
- loves things that start with the letter "B"....buses, Bibles, books, birds and even pointing out his bum when I'm changing his diaper =)
- teething...he cut 3 molars and 1 canine tooth in the last 2 weeks. It wasn't so bad! The amber necklace has been helping, I think! The last few days, the teething symptoms have increased....is he getting more?!
- loves being outside and is pretty tough with all the bumps, scrapes and bruises that go along with being an active, toddler boy! I am constantly praying for protection from injury!
We are so blessed to have Noah in our family! I love that little guy!
A few tidbits on life with Noah these days...
- on the go constantly....yesterday at church, I was in the toddler room and the lady next to me (whom I don't know) says to me "Wow. He's busy! I thought my daughter was busy but he's way busier!". He is a quick little guy and can run fast!
- getting more and more verbal....he is able to communicate a bunch between a few sounds/words and few signs. He is very expressive! Noah will talk in the van all the way to the store, down the aisles and all the way home. He especially likes to talk to the cashier and try to get people who look preoccupied and busy to look at him. He smiles at them and tries to get their attention =)
- full of affection...Noah loves people! He seems to really care about how people are doing and feeling and always has a hug to give. He wraps his little arms around your neck and squeezes. He gives the best hugs! Even to all the strangers on the playground =) Yesterday in the toddler room at church, I watched him connect with every family in there. It appears he has a caring, pastoral heart already =)
- loves things that start with the letter "B"....buses, Bibles, books, birds and even pointing out his bum when I'm changing his diaper =)
- teething...he cut 3 molars and 1 canine tooth in the last 2 weeks. It wasn't so bad! The amber necklace has been helping, I think! The last few days, the teething symptoms have increased....is he getting more?!
- loves being outside and is pretty tough with all the bumps, scrapes and bruises that go along with being an active, toddler boy! I am constantly praying for protection from injury!
We are so blessed to have Noah in our family! I love that little guy!
Saturday, May 18, 2013
We're Not in Canada Anymore Moments
I was thinking a few weeks ago that I really should be recording the moments we have that we like to label "We're not in Canada anymore!" moments =) For your enjoyment, Shane and I both had a WNICA moment on the same day a few weeks ago. Shane's was hilarious! I don't know if the funniness will transfer via blog, but here's the story =)
As a disclaimer, I mean no disrespect to the people or cultures involved in any of these cases. They simply remind us that we are not in our homeland anymore and make us chuckle. There are aspects of people and culture here, that are very different than home!
Earlier in the afternoon, I was at a company and getting some direction from the lady in charge. She was African American and the delivery of her information to the group made me continuously chuckle to myself. There is just no way you would hear someone talking like that in Canada. The culture is so different! She was talking about how we had to use black pen. Instead in of simply stating that, she went on and on to prove her point. "Now, you need to use black pen. Not your pretty purple pen or ____ pen (insert whatever colors, I don't remember her examples)" and the tone had attitude and it just made me smile and realize.....we are not in Canada anymore.
I told Shane about my moment when I got home and a few hours later as I was putting Noah to bed, Shane went to the store nearby by grab some milk. He was crouching down at the fridge/freezer to pull out a jug of milk. As he stands, he hears of the voice of someone coming down the aisle. These two African American ladies are walking toward him and one says, "Dang! You cute for a white boy!". Drop. Dead. Hilarious. And so crazy bold!
She goes on to ask what he's doing tonight and Shane tells her that he's on his way home to his wife =) She communicates her disappointment and how she would have loved to hung out with him for the evening.
Oh my word. Totally hilarious and not something we probably would have encountered in Canada.
We are not in Canada anymore. These moments prove it.
As a disclaimer, I mean no disrespect to the people or cultures involved in any of these cases. They simply remind us that we are not in our homeland anymore and make us chuckle. There are aspects of people and culture here, that are very different than home!
Earlier in the afternoon, I was at a company and getting some direction from the lady in charge. She was African American and the delivery of her information to the group made me continuously chuckle to myself. There is just no way you would hear someone talking like that in Canada. The culture is so different! She was talking about how we had to use black pen. Instead in of simply stating that, she went on and on to prove her point. "Now, you need to use black pen. Not your pretty purple pen or ____ pen (insert whatever colors, I don't remember her examples)" and the tone had attitude and it just made me smile and realize.....we are not in Canada anymore.
I told Shane about my moment when I got home and a few hours later as I was putting Noah to bed, Shane went to the store nearby by grab some milk. He was crouching down at the fridge/freezer to pull out a jug of milk. As he stands, he hears of the voice of someone coming down the aisle. These two African American ladies are walking toward him and one says, "Dang! You cute for a white boy!". Drop. Dead. Hilarious. And so crazy bold!
She goes on to ask what he's doing tonight and Shane tells her that he's on his way home to his wife =) She communicates her disappointment and how she would have loved to hung out with him for the evening.
Oh my word. Totally hilarious and not something we probably would have encountered in Canada.
We are not in Canada anymore. These moments prove it.
Saturday, May 11, 2013
A Few Updates...
I thought it was time to update on a few things....
Our visas....sadly, still not processed. We finally heard from the lawyer a week and a half ago with all the information that he needs from the base. Needless to say, it is a big job and the accountant is working on it. So, once he has it all together, he will send it to the lawyer, who will go over it and hopefully send it back to the government asap. The timing has been such a challenge. We never thought it would take this long and still possibly be far away from the end.
In light of the lack of visas.....Shane is not going to Thailand on Monday =( He has worked so hard the last 5 months preparing for the Call2All Congress and it is so disappointing that he won't get to be on the ground, seeing the fruit of his labor. As I write, Shane is working hard in his office. He has been working all day and evening this week, as well as all weekend so far. Thankfully, the end is in sight because this pace would never work long term! But, the Lord is helping me with grace and today He kindly sustained me and energized me, despite the sacrifice of the last little while. Though we are disappointed Shane won't be in Thailand with his team (and working through frustration with the visa process from time to time), we feel peace.
Our night away was lovely! And the Lord knew that we really needed some quality time before this last week of such intense work! It was so wonderful to connect and not have to share one another with anyone!
Noah....is adorable, getting more and more verbal, runs everywhere, loves everything and is teething fiercely. One molar is mostly through and the other 3 are soooo close. He lights up my world =)
Please continue to pray for our visa situation and the Lord's perfect timing...before June would be really great!
Our visas....sadly, still not processed. We finally heard from the lawyer a week and a half ago with all the information that he needs from the base. Needless to say, it is a big job and the accountant is working on it. So, once he has it all together, he will send it to the lawyer, who will go over it and hopefully send it back to the government asap. The timing has been such a challenge. We never thought it would take this long and still possibly be far away from the end.
In light of the lack of visas.....Shane is not going to Thailand on Monday =( He has worked so hard the last 5 months preparing for the Call2All Congress and it is so disappointing that he won't get to be on the ground, seeing the fruit of his labor. As I write, Shane is working hard in his office. He has been working all day and evening this week, as well as all weekend so far. Thankfully, the end is in sight because this pace would never work long term! But, the Lord is helping me with grace and today He kindly sustained me and energized me, despite the sacrifice of the last little while. Though we are disappointed Shane won't be in Thailand with his team (and working through frustration with the visa process from time to time), we feel peace.
Our night away was lovely! And the Lord knew that we really needed some quality time before this last week of such intense work! It was so wonderful to connect and not have to share one another with anyone!
Noah....is adorable, getting more and more verbal, runs everywhere, loves everything and is teething fiercely. One molar is mostly through and the other 3 are soooo close. He lights up my world =)
Please continue to pray for our visa situation and the Lord's perfect timing...before June would be really great!
Sunday, May 05, 2013
Blogger Book Review - The Christian Mama's Guide to Parenting a Toddler by Erin MacPherson
The Christian Mama's Guide to Parenting a Toddler is a book about entering the world of parenting a toddler. The author is a mom of 3 herself and pulls from a number of different people, resources and experiences to discuss a number of topics applicable to any mom of a toddler. Topics such as discipline, tantrums, sleep habits, healthy eating, potty training and preschool are covered, as well as topics specific to moms such as keeping date nights alive, the joys and challenges of stay-at-home moms and working moms, and preparing for baby #2.
I had mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, I enjoyed the topics and could definitely identify with many of the circumstances and challenges of parenting a toddler as I enter into the toddler phase with my little guy. I liked a lot of the lists of suggestions and recommendations that Erin provided and I think I will look back through the book to try some of them out!
On the other hand, I really had a hard time reading the book because of the tone of the author. I felt that humor and sarcasm was used far too much. I myself am more of a serious person and really dislike sarcasm in general. It made me feel like what is holy and sacred about motherhood wasn't valued or communicated in the way that I would have liked to hear. It was hard for me to get past the tone and enjoy the content.
I may recommend this book to mommy friends of mine but I would definitely disclaimer the tone and see if it would be a good fit for their personalities and communication style first.
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 had mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, I enjoyed the topics and could definitely identify with many of the circumstances and challenges of parenting a toddler as I enter into the toddler phase with my little guy. I liked a lot of the lists of suggestions and recommendations that Erin provided and I think I will look back through the book to try some of them out!
On the other hand, I really had a hard time reading the book because of the tone of the author. I felt that humor and sarcasm was used far too much. I myself am more of a serious person and really dislike sarcasm in general. It made me feel like what is holy and sacred about motherhood wasn't valued or communicated in the way that I would have liked to hear. It was hard for me to get past the tone and enjoy the content.
I may recommend this book to mommy friends of mine but I would definitely disclaimer the tone and see if it would be a good fit for their personalities and communication style first.
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.”
Monday, April 29, 2013
Romantic Get-A-Way!
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!
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!
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!
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