tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55596079821073452322024-02-19T00:16:41.657-08:00Overwhelming GraceMy heart...exposed.Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.comBlogger412125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-8519548341113843342015-05-13T07:38:00.000-07:002015-05-13T07:38:03.960-07:00Where to buy Arrow Warriors?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hey friends.<br />
<br />
Thanks so much to all of your comments, messages and texts.<br />
<br />
many have asked where to buy our arrow warrior products.<br />
<br />
Well of course i post on instagram and Facebook...but that seems to be not very convenient...<br />
so i've tried to update our <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/arrowWARRIORS?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">etsy</a>....<br />
<br />
i will try and keep that up to date too....Check it out weekly if possible...I'd really like to fund this picnic by all of your support.<br />
<br />
With GOD all things are possible.<br />
<br />
Check out ---->> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/arrowWARRIORS?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">arrow Warriors on etsy.</a><br />
<br />
Thanks friends.<br />
<br />
Gina<br />
<br /></div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-16771282757079359342015-05-12T17:00:00.001-07:002015-05-12T17:42:10.039-07:00Foster Care + Arrow Warriors= YOU and me bridging the gap...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
hey there friends.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAl1lfWY7f1onRRvc5UISQoCcjLKBCgTyLDswFm5Y3FihylV7ire0lSmFHLGcDR0W8aZDs0byL902r0oaPDU2K4U4Q0LlC9DfZlyyGjqngu4IizzxIpxHnhJ0AoMSjX-5R_8pQUPnD9RaR/s1600/crossbody2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAl1lfWY7f1onRRvc5UISQoCcjLKBCgTyLDswFm5Y3FihylV7ire0lSmFHLGcDR0W8aZDs0byL902r0oaPDU2K4U4Q0LlC9DfZlyyGjqngu4IizzxIpxHnhJ0AoMSjX-5R_8pQUPnD9RaR/s320/crossbody2.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
So you all know that "Arrow Warriors" was birthed to help provide for things that kids in foster care might be in need of...<br />
It can range from a bed (you all provided those a few months back with Arrow Warriors purchases)<br />
<br />
to<br />
a pair of glasses (the state only provides one pair no matter what...so if your vision changes, oh well.)<br />
<br />
to<br />
a grandparents needs to accept their grandchildren as a placement while applying to become licensed.<br />
<br />
And many more scenarios.<br />
<br />
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<br />
So a <span style="font-size: x-large;">need </span>arose yesterday. I received a phone call asking for <span style="font-size: x-large;">help</span>.<br />
<br />
You see...<br />
<br />
One weekend a year kids in foster care get one day to hopefully just be kids.<br />
<br />
To forget their anxiety, their worries, their anger and just be kids.<br />
<br />
To actually play with their siblings. for many this is the only time of the year they get to see them.<br />
(if you don't know what this is like, i'd suggest watching the movie CAMP, they do a great job showing the siblings getting to see each other for the first time...also getting to let loose for a week)<br />
<br />
to not be at a parent visit. but just have fun.<br />
<br />
So what is it...<br />
<br />
Its a picnic for foster kids.<br />
<br />
They get to jump on inflateables.<br />
<br />
They get to have snow cones.<br />
<br />
Eat hot dogs.<br />
<br />
play games.<br />
<br />
To just be a kid for a day.<br />
<br />
I'm sure your thinking...can't they just be kids every day? <br />
in short no. See kids in foster care have a schedule. Their identity is in this schedule. They know that Monday through friday they get up at 7:15am. They have breakfast at 8am. They have lunch at 11am and they have dinner at 6pm. They also know Monday-Friday's from 8:30-4 for the first time in their lives they go to school like every other kid. Seems normal, but when you have been left home by yourself at 3, 4 and 5 years old instead of going to school to prevent cps being called because of bruising or signs of starvation or because if you do actually go to school no one ever picks you up when everyone else has gone home with their mom and dad...and so someone got the great idea to put you on a bus because, well then for sure you would get home...only to have to ride the entire bus route back to school because no one was at home to get you either. And so you remind your foster mom "please don't forget me."<br />
And then to know that on Monday and Wednesdays you go to a location to see your Mom who shows up 50% of the time to spend time with you.<br />
And then to know that Wednesdays you go to church for the first time in your young life, and learned that you are cared for by so many and that Jesus is real and that he LOVES you.<br />
Then to know that on Friday's you see your dad and stay at what is his new home for two nights. And your not sure what time breakfast is and if you will get lunch and dinner and who knows when you'll get one or the other or both, because your schedule is off from what you are use to... And because your worried about your dad because he hasn't had a consistent job in your life, you steal money from your foster brother so your dad can have money to pay rent so he doesn't loose getting to see you on the weekends...<br />
And then to know you go back to your foster families on Sundays...<br />
And it all starts all over again for the next week. Not to mention court dates, and early on assessments and doctors apts and therapists.<br />
<br />
So this picnic is important to these kids. And why wouldn't you and i want to see these kids be kids.<br />
<br />
The picnic had a large gift card donated...and had a few large donors for the park, the snow cones and the ice and inflatables just backed out.<br />
<br />
Which is where you and I come in..and Arrow Warriors.<br />
<br />
Arrow Warriors is giving 50% to picnic from every purchase.<br />
<br />
The need is big...its $1,200.00 -$1,500.00 to make this picnic happen. I know God cares about each and everyone of these kids. And he can provide for this for these kids.<br />
<br />
I will be posting bags and pouches that i have available...please consider being a part of these kids having just one day to be kids. I need to make this deficit up by June 1st. Don't need a bag? or pouch? but want to donate...email me at daysnumbrd@gmail.com<br />
<br />
<br />
thank you friends for being a part. Nothing is too big for God.<br />
<br /></div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-84872865978766482642015-03-06T11:31:00.001-08:002015-03-06T11:31:04.051-08:00God speaking to my heart.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Within the last few weeks...a few things have transpired in my life that God is really using to teach me some things.<br />
one being that no one that i know has ever been forced into correction with God or repentance with Him with HARSH words...<br />
words like...God won't hear your prayers until everything is right...<br />
or when you respond when someone asks you a question and its not the response they want..your now being called an "attacker"or unbiblical....<br />
The above words are not the words of God I was just reading in my bible.<br />
God's words are love and gentleness...it says His gentleness is unsearchhable...due to the vastness of it...<br />
Sometimes we have the right heart but the wrong approach.<br />
God is showing me in my life when I've had the right heart but the wrong...very wrong approach....<br />
I've let my passion get in the way of His gentleness to friends who are struggling or going through a rough time...<br />
The scriptures actually say this life is rough yo. okay..well lets minus the yo...but you get the point...It says HE upholds all who fall...because this life is tough...yet God is good and there is NO limit to HIS power, HIS love and HIS concern for HIS people.<br />
<br />
The key word is HIS. He chose us. Not you or me choosing each other...but HIM...so who are we to say HE has turned his back on us because we aren't doing things the way you or I or jim-bob down the street would say we should.<br />
<br />
The bible also says The Lord is gracious and Full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy. The Lord is good to ALL...and His tender mercies..<br />
So who are we to say otherwise...<br />
I guess my point in this blog post is to say...I will be different in this area...I'm not going to win a friend struggling to repentance with harsh words...or a friend who is sad into even happy with "stop that...you have so much to be thankful for"...rather I'm going to be compassionate knowing that I would want the same..but also because I believe thats what jesus would ask us to do.<br />
<br />
So to anyone I've been overly passionate and less compassionate with...I'm very sorry. I'm a terrible work in progress...and I'm slow.<br />
seriously...when someone says something to me...it takes me an entire day to come up with the words to respond..because I'm slow...<br />
Anyways... lets extend Grace...even when its not due..<br />
<br />
XOXO<br />
Gina<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-51132976929943637992015-02-11T08:44:00.002-08:002015-02-11T08:44:41.444-08:00Meeting [Notes]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We had our big meeting with the President of our agency.<br />
It went well.<br />
I was having a bit of a stressful day to start....I thought...man I should just reschedule this meeting..because my head is not in it at the moment.<br />
I was working on Emma's valentines for the party today...<br />
Also getting newly aquatinted with our new foster loves...<br />
They are crazy cute...<br />
but like with any new placement learning boundaries, and that they are loved here.<br />
<br />
So I went into our meeting with my rockstar hubby. He asked me to reiterate my heart on this to him, before we left for the meeting, so he could help convey it well to the president of Ennis.<br />
<br />
I don't know if I could actually express how thankful I am to him of being such an encouragement in this ministry.<br />
<br />
We sat before him...sharing our heart. Bob shared his heart...and how great the need really is. How our state is failing our kids. How broken the system really is. I really am thankful for our agency. What president of any agency would want to sit down and discuss a foster parents heart? Not many that I know of.<br />
<br />
Did you know that kids in foster care get [1] pair of glasses. Doesn't matter if their prescription has changed..they get one pair. That is the state for you. Sad that these kids who have already gone through so much have to continue being last in the states eyes too.<br />
<br />
So yesterday after conveying our heart, we wrote a check to Ennis for $270.00 for safe sleep. What is safe sleep you ask?<br />
Well, its what prevents kids from having to enter foster care because of the lack of beds in the home[really because of poverty].<br />
<span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">You guys! Your purchases just helped keep 7 kids in their homes. 7 kids not have to enter foster care because of poverty. Your purchase did that. </span><br />
The need is great, not gonna lie, the goal is big[huge!]. 3,000 safe sleep beds are needed just in our county alone.<br />
I'm not letting that big number scare me...or say how could that need ever been met...it can and one by one..it will be met.<br />
<br />
We are working closely with our agency that if a need arises they will contact us. The needs that may arise is a relative caregiver needing help while being licensed...or a birthparent who needs a bed for their children to get them home...or bottles. Guys can you imagine the only thing keeping a child/baby from being able to go home is one set of bottles? Thats just beyond my comprehension...but that is the state for you. Your purchase is going to help situations like these that might arise...and of course the safe sleep project.<br />
<br />
So I hope you will continue to share our heart in helping be a small part of the puzzle for these kids. Lets put the kids first for once. I'm beyond saddened that these kids needs have not come first in many years. But I am praying big GOD size prayers for this to change. You can help be that change.<br />
<br />
Our Etsy shop is listed on the side tab <-----over arrow="" p="" there...under="" warriors=""><br />
Still available....<br />
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<br />
We hold ready to ship sales, usually one of a kind on <a href="http://instagram.com/mrstgiraud" target="_blank">Instagram</a> on Thursday evenings at 9pm eastern.<br />
<br />
Want a custom order? Email me at daysnumbrd at gmail dot com.<br />
<br />
Thanks friends...can't wait to share more of all that God is going to do through your purchases!<br />
<br />
XOXO!<br />
Gina<br />
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-20860453781871268042015-01-31T07:26:00.001-08:002015-01-31T08:39:09.540-08:00Bubby's stock....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
hello friends.<br />
<br />
I've never made wallets before but I figured I'd try and I think they came out pretty good.<br />
<br />
Now me being a perfectionist they aren't up to my normal standards. Many of you have asked if they are available and with my husbands prodding i will make them available alone with other purses and pouches that haven't met my standards.<br />
<br />
These "less than perfect" items will be called Bubby's stock.<br />
You see when foster kids(foster arrows) come into care, they are often times than perfect or even damaged but they deserve the same love and care as any other children. These "less than perfect" items can be loved the same way these foster kids deserve to be loved and are a good reminder that these kids are broken and "less than perfect" in the worlds eyes but they are loved and cherished in Jesus' eyes(and ours).<br />
So when I sell an item from Bubby's stock i will list what part i'm not all that pleased about it, but know that these ones are nearest to my heart because they are just like these children that are foster arrows and we love them through the brokenness.<br />
<br />
These items are not clearance items, but rather my special stock.<br />
<br />
To find out more about Bubby and why it's called Bubby's stock click the link at the top next to home button that says "about Bubby's stock"....to see our heart, exposed.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-50330675513416195132015-01-27T10:38:00.002-08:002015-01-27T13:37:09.705-08:00Arrow*warrriors... what does it mean??<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Hey friends..or shall I say WARRIORS.<br />
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<br />
i wanted to explain my heart and decision to change my pouch name from Difference Maker to Arrow Warriors.<br />
<br />
i was reading this morning in Psalm 127...<br />
and in verse 3-4 it says Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,<br />
The fruit of the womb is a reward,<br />
Like ARROWS in the hand of a WARRIOR,<br />
so are the children of ones youth.<br />
<br />
and of course I loved verse 5...<br />
HAPPY is the man who has his quiver full of them(although it doesn't really pertain to what I'm talking about right now.)<br />
<br />
You see these children, my children, your children [ALL] children are little arrows.<br />
and [WE] yes, you and me are WARRIORS for them. For their hearts. For their protection. because of LOVE, we can be WARRIORS for the little arrows.<br /><br />
i pray daily for my arrows...the ones here, the ones that have moved on, i so badly want them to make the bullseye...all i can do as a mama warrior is pray for them all and guide the ones here with me because He guides me.<br />
<br />
I felt it fitting and felt it was actually the most perfect to change our name to arrow*WARRIORS.<br />
<br />
please join in me in being a warrior for these arrows.<br />
also you can now find us on Etsy... right here...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/arrowWARRIORS?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank">arrowWARRIORS</a><br />
<br />
XOXO!<br />
Gina<br />
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-49542443596234158432015-01-23T18:10:00.001-08:002015-01-27T08:42:35.219-08:00The zippered pouch #arrow-WARRIORS project<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So heres a little behind my heart on why I'm making these zippered pouches.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKDNQxmVIp_ptglr5iCNdLbyQnJ4fvFK-7E_wqsWQ9VzrdBzpZWkY_UH91rgd8gR_BMyvTk1lL9IdRDXpECthUq2P2F2FjSJAC1fVnxD6eu6CkLd8KpkKtg7jl1Ua6qQupcjeX6-nrXccw/s1600/goldpouch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKDNQxmVIp_ptglr5iCNdLbyQnJ4fvFK-7E_wqsWQ9VzrdBzpZWkY_UH91rgd8gR_BMyvTk1lL9IdRDXpECthUq2P2F2FjSJAC1fVnxD6eu6CkLd8KpkKtg7jl1Ua6qQupcjeX6-nrXccw/s1600/goldpouch.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Kids [arrows] in foster care go through a really tough transition being yanked from their home(no matter how bad it was their...it was still theirs)and put with families that they've never met before...some loving..some not so loving...<br />
Our hope is that instead of yanking these arrows from their home and putting them with families that they don't know...that a relative would be able to step up and take them. Now this isn't always best..but when it is best we want to foster that. And sometimes its just an electric bill that they may not be able to afford to pay because of the extra mouths they need to feed...or maybe they don't have the extra grocery money to be able to feed the extra kids...thats where we'd like to come in. Our hopes is to help provide for these relatives stepping up for their own families while they get licensed....or take other steps to have a better situation financially so that the kids that have entered their home will be well taken care of...and from a family member. The transition would be less hard on them...which I believe would make for less long term diagnoses.<br />
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My husband and I have seen many kids come through our doors..and the heart ache of the unknown to them...While we are loving and they have all they need here...is almost unbearable to these kids. We've had kids run away...kids try and hurt themselves...kids diagnosed with ODD, RAD ect..<br />
I know not every situation is best for the kids entering foster care to stay with a relative...and trust me when I say, the agency is looking for any and every reason to say the relative home is not fit...but when they do say its fit..we want to step up and help. This last Christmas we were able to give Christmas to a grandpa that stepped up to take his 3 grandkids entering foster care...part was our youth group and part was tony and I...and really this is where this idea was birthed...This grandpa stepped up with nothing extra...in fact in the red...and He made it..but it he still makes it barely each month...I know just having Christmas provided for them was a huge relief for them...<br />
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So I'm selling these pouches...In hopes to help more Grandpas out their who love their grands and are willing to step up to bring them to their home...their familiar home.<br />
DON'T GET ME WRONG...I will happily open my home to as many foster babes that need it...I love them all so much!<br />
I'm just praying HE sells as much as needed to for this that HE has birthed in my heart.<br />
I'm on instagram as <a href="http://instagram.com/mrstgiraud/" target="_blank">mrstgiraud </a>...which is where I sell most of my pouches...between $25.00-$40.00... Also just re-opened my etsy shop.<br />
Interested in a pouch to support foster care? Comment here or hit me up on Instagram.<br />
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Thanks for listening to my heart friends.<br />
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Have a blessed day!<br />
Gina</div>
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-38418454456797707332014-07-11T18:44:00.001-07:002014-07-11T18:44:12.803-07:00A Humbling time in life...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today we took temporary placement(for the weekend) of our foster son's half sisters. Yes sister(s). One is 5 1/2 and one is 2 1/2.<br />
This day has not gone anything like I expected.<br />
The girls were very excited to have a sleepover at our house(I expected moaning and groaning)...like so excited they were bouncing off the walls...<br />
this would actually be just after I told the hubs that these girls are not hyper. LOL.<br />
We have had our challenges of trying to push to see how far they can run the house..which is so very much expected by any child coming into your home..muchless a foster who has bounced from houses a bit.<br />
Nap time came around...<br />
The oldest says "Gina! Can you do our tuck ins and high fives and hugs and kisses?"<br />
Me "sure..just tell me how and when to do them.<br />
Oldest "Now tuck in...<br />
Me: tuck in...<br />
Oldest: "Now hug...<br />
Me: Hug<br />
Oldest: "now high fives"<br />
Me: high fiving to the number five.<br />
Oldest: "now kiss"<br />
Me: "Kiss"<br />
<br />
This is where I started to get humbled...a little girl who I've only painted her nails a few times in our agency...and brought her a couple of little things..and picked up once from her house to take to a visit wants to hug and kiss me?<br />
That just blew my mind. Seriously...it still does...<br />
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The younger ones turn....<br />
Same routine...but the older one yells out...she doesn't like the hug part...so I asked "do you want a hug too?"<br />
She shook her head yes...<br />
so I go to hug her and it was a genuine hug..with weight and heart behind it.<br />
so I squeeze her like I would mine own...<br />
And right then and there I'm humbled yet again...<br />
<br />
Then after nap time...the kids went in the pool...and our bio kids rock is all I can say! They took turns caring for each girl in the pool...helping them with their floaties and googles...staying by their side...My mama heart was literally leaping with joy to see these kids step up in such a big way today.<br />
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After swimming we had to take Ez to baseball practice...and so we all went today, i thought it would be good to have the kids get out of the house and run...and play in sand.<br />
So i drop off Ez and Tony to practice...run and grab some food through a drive through and as were heading back to the practice the older one corrects em as she say "my mom"...the older one corrects her and says "well she's our mom now too!"<br />
YEP! humbled right again...jaw dropped...<br />
Amazed again that these girls who have been through more than I could ever imagine and even possible for anyone to handle...are not hiding like I would be...but running to the arms of a new person who is willing to care for them properly.<br />
Then we had a talk about skin color...the oldest asked em "why does you and your mom have the same skin color?"<br />
I answered..."Jesus makes people in all different skin colors, shapes and sizes...and everyone is beautiful...the skin color for em and I happen to match but doesn't change how jesus see's us." She blew it off...<br />
its okay...I pray she remembers that one day....<br />
Then bed time rolls around....and we do our same high fives..hugs, kisses and tuck in routine...<br />
and read a bed time story(which to be honest was rough for me, because I was tired!) and as i was walking out of the room...i just felt the need to tell them "I love you."<br />
And once again...<br />
I'm humbled by their response...<br />
"I love you too! Good night!" from both girls...<br />
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I don't know all that the Lord is doing in my heart through saying yes to these girls for the weekend...is it all a bed of roses? No...<br />
Am I exhausted? Yep...<br />
Am I overwhelmed? A little...Not too bad...<br />
But I know Jesus is using them to humble me...<br />
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I know foster care isn't for everyone...but what if you just said yes to a child for a weekend...and poored into their souls for a weekend...while you may think your changing them...and you may very well...think about how much is being changed in you.<br />
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Pray about foster care...Pray for the orphans...these kids in my home tonight truly are a picture of what the bibles talks about as orphans...right here in our own back yard.<br />
okay...goodnight friends!<br />
<br />
Gina</div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-24492077987614625132014-02-08T18:42:00.003-08:002014-02-08T18:50:05.619-08:00Are we C.R.A.Z.Y? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Here's a little glimpse into our day....and our lives.<br />
<br />
Well currently we have a infant (7 weeks foster son, little D) screaming uncontrollably. (withdrawals suck.)...Em has a her second half of her birthday sleep over extravaganza tonight(She had two friends over last night and 1 friend over tonight)..and they are doing foot baths with her new foot spa...picture water just about everywhere...and nail polish remover smell.<br />
The new puppy just pooped in the carpet room again. (sigh...really?!) That scent goes nicely with the nail polish remover scent...can you smell it now? GAG!<br />
Ny picked her nose to the point of it gushing with blood. (this is a big deal. not to be taken lightly.)<br />
Ny also doesn't want to eat and is currently on stand off for food for day number...wait.. I lost count. Every.MEAL. really.<br />
Little D has a bad diaper rash...and every time he poops he screams. He has super sensitive skin.<br />
Last night little D would only be soothed by being in his swing. I wish I could just sooth him with my heart beat...but not yet.<br />
I've done countless loads of laundry because Little D and Ny are either puking or bleeding or pooping on every piece of clothing and blankets they own...not to mention the dog who is peeing and pooping in the house still...and no matter how many times you take him out he still continues to go where he pleases. It doesn't matter how high we put up gates...he climbs the dumb things...to get to the carpet rooms to do his business.<br />
We have church in the morning...I finally planned out the little ones clothes the night before...it made it kind of easy since...<br />
I have a huge pile of laundry folded on the ottoman and waiting to go upstairs...you'd think I'd just take them upstairs so I can use the ottoman but nope(they will still be there tomorrow)..I just scooted my feet up on there with the clothes.<br />
The boys are arguing with the PS4...some nonsense about I get to be this player...and don't beat me...I don't know. I just am staying out of that room right now...plus I'd have to try to walk over the cushioned chairs that are laying on there side to keep puppy in that room...which doesn't actually work..since the dog stands higher than the chairs..but hey they get a B for effort.<br />
We are currently homeschooling. ya. What was I thinking?<br />
Tonight for dinner...we ordered take out. I really didn't want to...but the ease of it won me over. I thought okay, I will make myself something healthy while the rest of the family eats "woof woof, meow meow"...but my lack of sleep and hungry took over and I caved and had chicken fried rice. Now my stomach is mad at me.<br />
My cell phone is shattered beyond belief...and finally decided to upgrade today when we were at the store...well we start the process and they need some last four digits of the primaries ssn...um...hmmm...thats my sister in law....so hubs calls his brother...no answer...we decide okay we will come back...then his brother calls back and give him that info...so we proceed with the upgrade...get through a little more and realize i didn't finish my iCloud back up. Sales man offers to back it up on iTunes. okay. great. He does the back up. The kids are starting to get restless....I am starving...these late night feedings for the little D are making me hungry throughout the day...dang it! So I go take the kids on a walk..come back...to check on the hubs..and now they need some pin number(WHAT? good grief!)...again...hubs has to call his brother. This time he doesn't get back to us in time. So we leave. I'm dying...sugar levels low...patience level very low..kids patience level extremely low...yep its time to go!<br />
Hubs says so where do you want to eat...I said the very first place available! Well that would be McD's. Which I'm not a huge fan of...but well I'm crashing fast and I said no problem get McD's I'm going to go inside to make Little D's bottle...you go through drive through for food...and as I start to shut the door...I yell "DON'T FORGET MY DR. PEPPER!" The look on the hubs face was priceless...He said "okay?!" I explained i've tried to have Dr. Pepper 3 times this week while out and about at various drive throughs only to be disappointed with Diet coke or Diet Dr Pepper...Maybe I should be taking it as a sign...but nah...<br />
So now I'm probably higher than a kite with all the fumes going through this house...the boys are playing sting pong...and I'm hearing ouch...and screaming from the ping pong/dining room table...the baby is still screaming and the girls are trying to chat at me about their nails...I keep smiling and nodding...and I'm trying to drink some Awake Tea so that I can spend a few minutes tonight with my man.<br />
So thankful for my man. Tonight we hugged each other in the midst of all this chaos and said to each other we will get through this...we will.<br />
So are we crazy? New puppy...New baby...2 year old (need I say more?) two teenagers and a newly double digit girl and homeschooling...what was I thinking...<br />
While most days feel so chaotic...it also feels so right...<br />
I pray the Lord breaks the pattern of these foster babies lives and shows our kids how to love the sometimes unloveable...and continues to work in us what He is right now...and that our hearts would be sensitive to His spirit.<br />
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Oh and one last thing...<br />
I've given up on having a perfect house right now..so if you come by you may see unswept floors..and laundry..and bottles lying around..and you'll see little D's clothes on the piano as we have no dresser for him yet...This is a big adjustment for me...I like a pretty clean house..but this is a season and I'm trying to embrace it in a way that is pleasing to Jesus...I'd rather be a Mary than a Martha...so hopefully through the more messy than I'd like you will find hearts that aren't messy...with love and warmth and coffee.<br />
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Living by GRACE!<br />
Gina<br />
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-59923590584386042982013-11-19T11:36:00.001-08:002013-11-19T11:39:02.201-08:00If you really wanna know...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I could not have written this post better myself.<br />
This is where I'm at...<br />
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Dear (Foster) Momma of a Stranger’s Child,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I talk to you often in the work I do. I hear you say, “<em>We want to hang in there”, or “We are doing the best we can”, </em>and even<em>, “I don’t know if I am up for this.”</em> I hear these words through your shaky, weakened voices. But, what I really hear is you saying,<em> “I don’t want to be another mother who disregards this child”</em>, or <em>“If I could, I would provide this child with every ounce of my being in order to heal him or her.”</em></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You are walking in very heavy shoes. You
are feeling as though your efforts are disregarded, don’t matter, don’t
work, and will be forgotten about in the fleeting moments of a day. I’m
here to tell you, they are not disregarded. They do matter. They
work, and they will never be forgotten.</div>
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Dear Momma of a Stranger’s Child, you are
one of the bravest mothers of all. You’ve ventured into the murky
waters of loving a child whose hurts seem like they could go on for an
eternity.</div>
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<em><strong>You, dear Momma of a Stranger’s Child, you are a broken-hearted warrior.</strong></em></div>
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You hear from others, <em>“You are doing a good thing”, “I could never do what you do”, or “Your faith is bigger than this.” </em>While
you hear these words of comfort and affirmation, your heart is
screaming in that silent, lonely place of wondering if you really are
doing a good thing, if you really should be doing what you are doing,
and if your faith really is bigger than this. You, dear Momma of a
Stranger’s Child, you wonder where God is in all of the hurts put on
children in His world.</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Go <a href="http://barrentoblessed.wordpress.com/2013/11/13/dear-foster-momma-to-a-strangers-child/" target="_blank">here</a> to finish reading the rest of this blog post....to see where my heart is right now.</div>
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Sorry I've been so mia. Hopefully I can get back to blogging soon...<br />
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XOXO!<br />
Gina</div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-48983310487248366102013-09-28T09:30:00.001-07:002013-09-28T09:30:26.791-07:00Birthday..a heart changeNiylah's birthday was on Thursday. <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxBg35QdBuIgOZuRmxNQ3Ysr70PffaQJClkdlOt9A5E3cPTUIf-S4OERSqLmqIqvBbP6lmqZVwEX7ybzogiY2df0lQYj8K3yDaezioABHwWQb1OufBPscxhA3SUOv6VbeyZqQxkYkq9rr/s640/blogger-image--1276790708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxBg35QdBuIgOZuRmxNQ3Ysr70PffaQJClkdlOt9A5E3cPTUIf-S4OERSqLmqIqvBbP6lmqZVwEX7ybzogiY2df0lQYj8K3yDaezioABHwWQb1OufBPscxhA3SUOv6VbeyZqQxkYkq9rr/s640/blogger-image--1276790708.jpg"></a></div><br><div>I planned a special lunch out..then a trip to target to let her pick out something special on her special day, with a special lunch dessert...and a homemade birthday cake.</div><div>This plan didn't work out so well.</div><div>Lunch she barely wanted to eat..not a big shock. Our trip to target meant nap would be very late..ya not my finest mom choice...</div><div>Here's what it looked like...</div><div>everything I planned to buy her she told me to put back after a minute of playing with it..then when I wasn't paying enough attention that she was done with this one toy she then repeatedly tried to kick it out of the basket and spilled my coffee[here is where I really wanted to cry! Since I don't get Timmy hohos very often anymore]. So I was like okay. Time for our afternoon birthday dessert. I'm a firm believer in lots of sweets on your birthday. We headed over to the target cafe and got ice cream for everyone. Which was great until it was gone. Then you would have thought I just took her food away to be mean...but I'm sorry sweetie you can not eat the paper carton of your ice cream.</div><div>Headed to the check out with a 1.00 spot book..for her gift. I really wanted to buy her something she'd really love...like doc mcstuffins toys or Dora toys or Mickey. But she kept telling me to put them back. So finally I just grabbed a Dora book from the dollar spot and figured we make her room super cute with a tree and some other wall decorations.</div><div>The evening went a little better. Ran to the store to get a few things for her cake and she saw a Dora birthday balloon. So I bought it for her since it's her birthday and all...told her to keep it on her wrist...she was so happy. Until we walked out side then she decided she didn't want it anymore and took it off her wrist and let it go. sigh. She enjoyed her cake...well sort of. She actually blew out the candles..which at her party she didn't. Then when I got her a piece of cake she kept saying "all done", then as soon as I'd start to clean her up she'd be like "no!" </div><div>Poor thing was very confused. As was I.</div><div>She is sweet and sassy. Mostly sassy. But one day I have faith that she will be more sweet than she is today...and praying she loves Jesus more than anything or one in this world...although I would be okay with coming in a close second. ;)</div><div><br></div><div>To be honest I went to bed on her birthday kinda disappointed. I really wanted to make the day special for her. It seemed every attempt was squashed. I prayed that The Lord would be blessed that we tried even though I was disappointed.</div><div><br></div><div>Fast forward to today...</div><div>Tony is coaching football this year. There is this sweet boy on his team.</div><div>His innocence is a blessing. He made his first tackle last Saturday and while the kid was on the ground he panted the boy on the chest and said he was sorry for tackling him. Then came to my husband and said "coach I told him I was sorry for tackling him". I mean seriously I just wanted to cry over his tenderness! My husband said "you can say your sorry anytime as long as you tackle like that all the time!" He had a big smile on his face. So cute!</div><div>This boy lives with his aunt..along with a few other cousins. </div><div>Yesterday was his birthday. </div><div>Our football mom made him a cake. His cousin walks in (who lives with him) and says what's the cake for? They say it's your cousins birthday. He said it is?! Runs out to wish him a happy birthday before he comes into practice. </div><div>This broke my heart. </div><div>I pray it's because they were going to celebrate as a family today and that's why his cousin didn't know. I have a feeling it's because birthdays aren't such a big deal. Which kills me as a mom. Because we go over and above on birthdays because it's time to celebrate! And be thankful for the life given to us!</div><div><br></div><div>Now I think back to all the "try's" for Niylah's birthday..and wish and pray that would be the same effort for this boy. Now to do some shopping for this boy. Pray he feels blessed and special by his coach getting him a birthday gift. I just want to squeeze him and tell him he is loved and throw him the biggest party ever!</div><div>He was very blessed by the cake for his birthday. And the team gave him a team sweatshirt. So thankful for these football moms! Wish I would have known earlier...but so thankful for them!</div><div><br></div><div>Happy birthday Niylah and James!</div><div>You are loved...treasured and chosen!</div><div><br></div><div>Xoxo!</div><div>Gina </div></div>Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-91115446187794648122013-09-13T18:38:00.001-07:002013-09-14T06:08:17.808-07:00Yay for Friday!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today was a really great day.<br />
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The kids are homeschooling and I'm really excited about the time we get to spend together during the day.</div>
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I do notice though that come 9pm I'm ready for them to go up to their rooms.</div>
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Half of me feels guilty for that and the other half feels like I'm still enjoying them and our day, it's just time for the hubs and I.</div>
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So while the kids are doing homeschool today I was working on homemade play dough. </div>
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Ny's birthday is coming up super quick...like in two days and tomorrow I'm completely busy the entire day so today was the last day before paarttay day. </div>
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The play dough is for the paarttay. It's our little thank you gifts.</div>
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And as I was making the play dough while the kids are schooling at the island...we had the screen door open to let in some fresh fall air. Friends the high for today was 58! I'm mean what in the world?! This week one day it was 91! Sheesh! I think Michigan has lost it's marbles!</div>
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Anyway because of the nice chill in the air</div>
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I decided to light my newer candle. Isn't it so cute?! The flavor is pumpkin! Yum!</div>
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And well to finish the nostalgia my son sent his daddy a text and said "dad! Moms listening to Christmas music!" And my sweet, loving husbands response was "save yourselves!" Lol</div>
<div>
Yes I was listening to Christmas music!</div>
<div>
I love christmas music. And if I didn't have a ton of things to get done I would have put up my fall decorations....but that is going to have to wait until next week.</div>
<div>
I still have a blog post to get up about our trip to California and I will get one up of Ny's party too. Soon. I hope :)</div>
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<br /></div>
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Xoxo</div>
<div>
Gina</div>
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<br />
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-43795664025281943372013-08-09T07:19:00.002-07:002013-08-09T07:19:58.013-07:00Just some this and that...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We've really enjoyed this summer.<br />
I love the time I've been able to spend with my kids, some one on one time, a lot of all of us together time.<br />
Some together time...I love this boy!<br />
I think his exact words were, how do you girls wear these things???!!!<br />
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<br />
<br />
We've had one big baseball season just come to an end. I'm thankful he got to play, but boy am I thankful its over. He played well. He played a year above his age level. I think he competed well.<br />
And just in time to head into football season.<br />
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<br />
We've been teaching our newest addition how to love, how to treat one another. How to do simple things such as eat a meal, to try to use words. Its been a constant, continual process, but we are seeing small, very small improvements, which I am thankful for. Being a mom is such a joy. Even if there are days I feel like the biggest failure or like I don't have a clue as to what I am doing...I still count it a blessing and a joy to be a mom to however many the Lord chooses to give us...birthed or not, short term or long. I pray that my heart would be pleasing to the lord as a mom. <br />
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I've also done a little sewing this summer. I was hoping it was like riding a bike....and it was. YAY!<br />
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<br />
And as I was sleeping one night...asking the Lord for wisdom...He gave me this verse...I woke up and was like, okay remember that verse. I actually got up the next morning and was just so encouraged that the Lord would give me a verse while I'm sleeping...just to encourage me.<br />
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Hope your last few weeks of summer is great.<br />
We are headed to California soon. Can NOT Wait to see my Brother, Sister, Nieces and Nephews!<br />
XOXO!<br />
Gina</div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-27652212509622209842013-07-18T11:21:00.001-07:002013-07-18T11:21:26.082-07:00Weak. Broken. Tears.I think many people think I am a strong woman. <div>I. Am. Not.</div><div><br></div><div>Very very weak.</div><div><br></div><div>This week was a heartbreaking week for me. I can't go into detail...except to say my heart just hurts so bad.</div><div><br></div><div>If I was strong id just move on.</div><div>But no, not me. I cry in the quiet of my room. Where no one sees me but the one and only who matters most.</div><div><br></div><div>Times when I feel I should be able to be joyful...</div><div>The joy gets ripped out underneath me in the same breath.</div><div>I don't like this.</div><div><br></div><div>There is nothing I can do to change it.</div><div>I give my brokenness to Jesus. My heart is jn a thousand pieces and pray he kind find each piece to mend it back together.</div><div>Maybe he's even got spare parts to make it work better next time. If there ever is a next time.</div><div><br></div><div>Gina</div>Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-31015961143440295842013-07-08T09:56:00.000-07:002013-07-08T09:56:44.753-07:00open my eyes..<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Tonight. As my big girl and I were on a walk. I had worship music in my iPhone and em had music on her iPod and we set out on foot. I tried to convince her to ride but she wanted to walk with mama. Okay but we gotta go fast. She agreed to the terms.<br />
<div>
As we're 1/4 the way through. The big girl started getting tired and complaining of her legs hurting. I think she gets shin splints. Poor thing. So I stop give her some water, tell her to turn up the music on the iPod, that it helps to distract and encourage her that walking/running is very much a mind thing...if you can get past your mind telling you to stop you'll do just fine.<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">. </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdIQG02uwwdmGNCBcdy5aYIymsCvT9_8OMLR1M6zFE4LKR6VW2eYHHrifEEnM-WswEnWZrlWGG-DKTrPP4iiCtB6c9Nrkdjv1wrjBzxpAo3GXCL_27kdTorB9dxpHacdSTuXYYkbv6eg4/s640/blogger-image--1155975336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVdIQG02uwwdmGNCBcdy5aYIymsCvT9_8OMLR1M6zFE4LKR6VW2eYHHrifEEnM-WswEnWZrlWGG-DKTrPP4iiCtB6c9Nrkdjv1wrjBzxpAo3GXCL_27kdTorB9dxpHacdSTuXYYkbv6eg4/s640/blogger-image--1155975336.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: left;">So she keeps running/walking and she's
ahead of me and I have a worship song on my iPhone and I just feel the
nudging to pray for me to be the best mom I could possibly be for her.
That I would meet the needs her heart and mind have...you know what I'm
talking about, when you need to chat but don't know who to chat
with...that I would be available and sensitive to her..and then The Lord
leads me to pray for my heart for her brothers. That I would be the
best mom I could possible be for them. </span><br />
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span>
Jesus here I am. Use me. Lord let me be the best mom to these 4 babies and any other babies The Lord chooses to give us. </div>
<div>
<br />
Then I felt The Lord speak to my heart again... Ive asked The Lord several times why he moved us an hour away from where we go to church and have friends. And as we were walking I felt the lord say "this is why. Your heart was not prepared the way I wanted because your focus was different. you filled your days with distractions. Moving an hour away from all those distractions changed your heart. You desire to be the best wife now, with your husband in mind before yourself or your friends. You desire to be the best mom..not best worldly..but best for each kids needs. Your heart desires to please me now. You trust me which means You now trust your husband. You let him lead your family, where you before would have stepped in because you did not trust him. You hear from me. You seek me. You have changed." </div>
<div>
And my heart sang worship to the father. Because now I know. </div>
<div>
And I said "lord here I am. Use me. I am yours."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Tid bits from my heart tonight.</div>
<div>
So thankful!</div>
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Love,</div>
<div>
Gina<br />
BTW she walked 4.2 miles per hour. YAY EM! </div>
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-53304200740435310882013-05-31T21:03:00.001-07:002013-06-01T20:13:28.621-07:00So blessed.Friends. The Lord is good. <div>He his mighty and worthy to be praised!</div><div>Yesterday as I went about my day...errands upon errands to run, with my 4 big and little people in tow..I just felt the presence of The Lord.</div><div>He was showering me with his love and kindness like no other. </div><div>I'm finding it actually kind of difficult to explain the details of our day except to say I felt his presence. I do remember a little of the evening.</div><div>Em got to go in the pool. Yay!!!</div><div>I sat on the deck in the heat and sun and practically begged the sun to give me some color so I don't stick out like a soar thumb next to this mocha latte baby.</div><div>Oh wait, I do remember getting em and ni up early for a long walk. </div><div>Then after em's pool fun we ate dinner...a crockpot no effort meal because I made 5 meals the day before! </div><div>I must schedule that on my to do list more. Makes for such an easy evening when your already tired.</div><div>Then after dinner we all went outside...</div><div>And again just felt the lords love on me. I watched my 3 men..two are really just boys but they're getting so big! Anyway they are playing a baseball game...and em and I played a little match of tetherball. Don't worry! I had some mercy. Some. Hehe. Then em and ni were playing in a puddle in the court and I just took a glimpse of our house...how beautiful the outside is and the transplant job I did on the hostas...man those things are hardy! They look wonderful. I wasn't sure they would survive my black thumb skills... Our two nice cars in the driveway. The big yard the the boys could play baseball on with a dad that loves them so much!...and I could relax enough knowing em and ni were playing in dirty rain water and it would be okay[i don't like it when my kids are dirty]...I just was so overwhelmed. Like why did god bless me so? Why me? I almost wanted to cry. To give me a husband who loves me so much and yet Jesus even more! To give me 4 kids for at least the moment. 4 feels so good. even if the forth is learning to put her stink aside and love and trust...which means we are all learning. To think of where The Lord had brought us from to now this...being able to see the beauty in such little yet big things. </div><div>I'm so thankful for the blessings of The Lord!</div><div>I'm also thankful for my husband spending so much time in the lords word..studying faithfully several hours a week to teach the youth at our church. That Jesus would choose to use us despite our flaws. So amazing. So thankful. So loving.</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-73998087399932946192013-05-30T14:24:00.001-07:002013-05-30T14:24:47.025-07:00May...Foster care awareness month. Who knew?!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So I found out a few days ago that May is foster care awareness month.<br />
Funny how we don't know some of these things.<br />
My friend and I were chatting on the phone.<br />
She's telling me how she was mowing her neighbor across the streets lawn.<br />
I say to her, wow that's awesome!<br />
She proceeds to tell me how her husband died recently.<br />
<br />
I say to her "that is so nice of you."<br />
Her response...<br />
"Oh who cares!" [I'm not joking, this really was her response. She's crazy!]<br />
I said "um...Jesus cares! and Its a really nice thing!"<br />
<br />
She proceeds to tell me its Foster care awareness month. And we start talking about how the Lord calls us to care for widows and orphans.<br />
"I said and you are!" You are caring for that widow across the street.<br />
I begin telling her about a conversation that had taken place this last weekend with a couple who had said," i don't know how you do it, I would not be able to let the children go."<br />
"It would hurt too much." <br />
<br />
I proceed to tell this couple how the Lord spoke to me with our first foster child and our second..both with very different personalities and needs...one feeling the sadness of neglect and being unwanted, and the other feeling the effects of His mothers choices while He was in the womb... Jesus spoke to me. Clearly. We don't love at an arms distance. We love like Jesus loves. Whole heartedly. Which if you do that you WILL get hurt. It will hurt to say goodbye. It will hurt to be disposable to a child. It will hurt when they hit you. It will hurt when they act as if your not good enough. It WILL hurt. But Here's the thing, if it doesn't hurt, then we are by all means doing something very wrong. There's a song by I believe Jon Forman that says "if it doesn't break your heart it isn't love."<br />
So so very true.<br />
<br />
Some might say, I'm glad jesus hasn't called me to foster care or orphan care. But see He has. He has called everyone to care for the orphans and widows. And maybe that doesn't mean your home becomes a licensed foster home, but maybe you support a friend who is. Being a shoulder for them to cry on when their feelings are hurt...or maybe you send a monthly check to an orphanage[like Ebenezer Grace Children home] or pray your guts out for these kids that feel unwanted. Or maybe you make a meal for the very tired and worn out foster mama who has been dealing with a tantrumed child all day...everyone is called to be a part. <br />
Or maybe you do as my friend is doing...and mow the lawn of a widow across your street.<br />
Today I was especially reminded of this truth that everyone is called to be a part somehow. My sweet husband got up at the pulpit today and shared with the congregation just a 5 minute glimpse of the kids in ebenezer grace children's home.<br />
Friends were crying. Lets be honest, I was crying.<br />
I sat in the back row holding our young super fiesty foster daughter with tears in my eyes with so many thoughts and feelings and emotions as I watched that video...as my man stood up their advocating for these orphans. And To see our Ethiopia video again was just so surreal. To remember all the crazy steps we took because we knew the nudging and leading of The Lord and his Holy Spirit. All the obstacles we faced and preserved right through them because of His great love for us.<br />
And then to see almost one year later how The Lord [by His grace] is still using us with this orphanage and to raise money for them and hopefully bring a crew to them next summer. Only Jesus! And to see the body of Christ step outside their comfort zone and hand over checks out of the nudging of the Holy Spirit and people buying jewelry to support this orphanage and asking questions about foster care. Only Jesus!<br />
If it doesn't break your heart it isn't love. So true.<br />
And just a little tidbit of my day about Foster care...<br />
I had little "n" by my side after service playing with her Dora book and phone. A interested family comes up and asks about adoption and foster care. How long is the process to adopt through foster care. There's was so much I wanted to say about that...like Jesus' will when it comes to adopt through foster care...not every child is going to be his will for your family to keep forever. The woman proceeds to ask to hold "n". I've never felt more awkwardness before...I hated having to look at this sweet lady who just wanted to hold a baby in her arms and know if she could feel like her own the word "no. I'm so sorry, but no."<br />
The look on the woman's face seemed saddened..but as I spoke to her, i let her know she is still working on trust and love, and to have other people come in and hold/care/feed her is very confusing for her. We need her to know we are her parents for now., as long as God will allow..and that she needs to know we aren't going anywhere and neither is she. I proceeded to tell her little "n" clams up at church, in big groups...wondering if this is yet "another" transfer to a new home...that every foster child we've had goes through stages..and this is the stage she is at. Learning to trust. Learning to love. <br />
<br />
The woman understood. I hated to say no, but my job is to do what is best for her and our family first and foremost. I pray this woman listens to jesus' heart for her family, and takes the steps of faith that foster care require.<br />
Thanks for listening to my heart on foster care.<br />
please feel free to ask any questions...I don't have all the answers but I can share with you all what I do know...and have learned throughout the years.<br />
<br />Love,<br />
Gina<br />
<br /></div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-4028103702521335312013-05-03T09:34:00.001-07:002013-05-03T09:34:56.669-07:00I'm seeing a trend.I'm seeing a trend here friends. Everywhere you look.<br />
People are struggling. Including me.<br />
Marriages are hurting. Yes this does include ours.<br />
People are not being honest.<br />
People are taking from kids, any and every way you look at it.<br />
People are coming to their wits end.<br />
<br />
Truth be told. This life is hard lately. We are in the end times. Jesus said in the end times this...<br />
But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! (II Timothy 3:1-5 NKJV)<br />
<br />
I hate to say it but when I'm not posting on my blog it usually means were in a season of hard.<br />
Jesus is faithful. I can stop and count my blessings for sure. As quickly as I count them the hard starts again.<br />
I know it's for a season. Sometimes this season seems to be my entire life.<br />
My husband would say that's just my emotions speaking. Maybe he's right or maybe it's reality. I pray Jesus shows me.<br />
Tomorrow we have a craft show. Im thankful for this show. First one I've done in years.<br />
All process are going to our adoption fund.<br />
I'm also planning on putting a bucket on our table for donations for ebenezer grace and our kids baseball fund...<br />
Please pray for our day tomorrow.<br />
<br />
Hope I'm not being the Debbie downer...just trying to be real.<br />
Xoxo!<br />
Gina <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXEG-zhXqudKCFHAoV_klFQBaJ-KEc0ptM1ekeWWkb5UcOfCabZJYBuO9B7Xo2vu4mvgmjs2pOCuD9Mzz_E7EcAgqRNqYQZUpayamty_vDy5eue04cy_qB1nbXeO-7eZlMQx7-a6psWbnP/s640/blogger-image-1588441212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXEG-zhXqudKCFHAoV_klFQBaJ-KEc0ptM1ekeWWkb5UcOfCabZJYBuO9B7Xo2vu4mvgmjs2pOCuD9Mzz_E7EcAgqRNqYQZUpayamty_vDy5eue04cy_qB1nbXeO-7eZlMQx7-a6psWbnP/s640/blogger-image-1588441212.jpg" /></a></div>Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-74379284692407212022013-04-13T11:54:00.001-07:002013-04-13T11:54:16.906-07:00A little fundraising update...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm sure everyone is sick of hearing about our fundraisers...but I'm excited with where they are going. <br />
Necklace fundraiser: <br />
So far we have sold $400.00 for our adoption and $120.00 for Ebenezer Grace Children's home. This is pretty good I think in just a few weeks. If you know of anyone looking for a shopping with purpose, please pass the word...we'd like to sell all of our necklaces before mothers day if possible. $10.00 per necklace. <br />
<br />
Pallet art/wood art:<br />
I've sold a few pieces on the side..but am prepping for a big craft show May 4th in Clarkston. I have some really fun colors...you all know me, I LOVE color! Whatever doesn't sell at the craft show I will offer up here and on instagram for sale. If you live out of state but are wanting a piece..hang tight...I bet I will have more available for ya.<br />
<br />
T-shirts: <br />
We still have t-shirts for sale...we made them up a year ago when we were fundraising for our trip to Ethiopia. I like the style of them...I have men and woman's available. You should see a link in the side bar to purchase.<br />
<br />
<br />
That's it for now....we are heading out for a little family time tomorrow. It is much needed after the craziness of last week...I'm so over its craziness already. A friend said to me the other day, of course your dealing with discouragement and attacks...because your walking something amazing here. I loved her perspective. So true.<br />
Oh and we just knew we'd get a call from our new agency (foster care)because we were getting ready to leave for a few days of family time...unfortunately it wasn't a fit for us...but I'm excited that they were so willing to call us so quickly....we are excited about the possibilities.<br />
<br />
Love you all!<br />
Gina <br />
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-1670392293282200212013-04-08T20:07:00.001-07:002013-04-08T20:07:29.414-07:00Learning and praying...Would you be surprised to find out that parents have their children up for adoption at 2 months old? How about 5 months old? What about 7 months old? 10 months-6 years? I had no idea that parents were looking for better homes for their. Babies, toddlers and children.<br />
This is very new to us. Honestly I'm proud of these birth mamas to be able to put their children up for adoption wanting a better life for them, rather than neglecting them and letting them go into foster care.<br />
My heart hurts for them also because you know they've created a bond. And at any moment that bond will be different, always there but different.<br />
We really thought the only options was a newborn adoption or older child adoption through foster care.<br />
We are EXCITED!! <br />
We would LOVE to provider a loving home for these kids that are already here, and in much need of a new home ASAP. <br />
We are praying The Lord will direct every step. Walking us through doors He chooses to open for us. <br />
We have a meeting tomorrow with an agency who will explain this kind of adoption to us. We are praying the cost would be cheaper. Will you pray with us? Will you also pray for the finances for bringing in a new child into our home...and pray for the birth mama and baby,toddler or child. For love and protection for them.<br />
Thank you all for interceding.<br />
Thank you all who have purchased necklaces....we have many more to sell, so please feel free to look at my older posts to buy a necklace to help support our adoption..they are perfect Mother's Day gifts too. <br />
<br />
Xoxo,<br />
Gina<br />
P.s I got accepted into the craft show! Yay! So now I gotta move my keester on making more art! <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Bc5oAccbn2S9lbs_gnKXthDS_d3SMCGrX192SkilDWmV3dQMJ8uwz60ncl_bubPC46TSjIjkv3MgQudWhdKZF1tBtjpza6m5LgUdELW3_fOIEL7ghfmytdB8H6nq9pW9P-8Rsgda2tMi/s640/blogger-image--606910619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Bc5oAccbn2S9lbs_gnKXthDS_d3SMCGrX192SkilDWmV3dQMJ8uwz60ncl_bubPC46TSjIjkv3MgQudWhdKZF1tBtjpza6m5LgUdELW3_fOIEL7ghfmytdB8H6nq9pW9P-8Rsgda2tMi/s640/blogger-image--606910619.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghHP0aja_wLJMANJADTqx4iQXI4oBPKDHZoso2zteYt5R10uzucw3SoPhfixO6J869Q_zW-VwMk-opjyBvaRqcjDd0c6VtXZMJy9ff73DGVFgn5TeKe6h21LBGFCMmbUIQ4g4ug-W4yqY4/s640/blogger-image--2096211807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghHP0aja_wLJMANJADTqx4iQXI4oBPKDHZoso2zteYt5R10uzucw3SoPhfixO6J869Q_zW-VwMk-opjyBvaRqcjDd0c6VtXZMJy9ff73DGVFgn5TeKe6h21LBGFCMmbUIQ4g4ug-W4yqY4/s640/blogger-image--2096211807.jpg" /></a></div>Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-85399352245551734482013-04-03T08:17:00.001-07:002013-04-10T09:27:21.403-07:00Mother's Day is just around the corner...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimR9QoVaaqHuTRkKhVyoCgRzHaDz2w0__hFgUrTXY3803iKE-2pjzChll4-Xo_phT_LiOrUzC4WowanxUBH4Zc7aaCCr3JisFlEb8bE-7Zm3qBKY08Hs7P9PpD_Boyg1nQNVIP2LT6XOq/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimR9QoVaaqHuTRkKhVyoCgRzHaDz2w0__hFgUrTXY3803iKE-2pjzChll4-Xo_phT_LiOrUzC4WowanxUBH4Zc7aaCCr3JisFlEb8bE-7Zm3qBKY08Hs7P9PpD_Boyg1nQNVIP2LT6XOq/s320/2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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With Mother's Day just around the corner, I though now was the perfect time to post our sweet necklaces for sale. 50% goes to ebenezer grace children's home in Ethiopia and 50% goes towards our families adoption. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV8YqQ7L8v_-hq_yR9o2ZpSeyCdUjADeHdE3vEjLBG9Smpw0xH5b3_80vG1FmZPubIDVdvvGpeZmHLedxDYHGtGu3HHtuLO-By9ffPdtKkZx5I9WH3Egz3DOUfjocwa8aP6CbFCw_vmfSO/s320/7.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">blue or red left, green sold.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td>colors to choose from</td></tr>
<tr><td><select name="os0">
<option value="blue solid">blue solid $10.00 USD</option>
<option value="red solid">red solid $10.00 USD</option></select> </td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<input name="currency_code" type="hidden" value="USD" />
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Green necklaces...<br />
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<tr><td><input name="on0" type="hidden" value="boy or girl choices" />boy or girl choices</td></tr>
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<option value="Girl necklace(short)">Girl necklace(short) $10.00 USD</option>
<option value="Girl necklace (short)">Girl necklace (short) $10.00 USD</option>
<option value="Girl necklace (short)">Girl necklace (short) $10.00 USD</option>
<option value="boy necklace">boy necklace $10.00 USD</option>
<option value="boy necklace">boy necklace $10.00 USD</option>
<option value="boy necklace">boy necklace $10.00 USD</option>
</select> </td></tr>
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<tr><td><input name="on0" type="hidden" value="color choices" />color choices</td></tr>
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<option value="light green">light green $10.00 USD</option>
<option value="Dark purple, almost black">Dark purple, almost black $10.00 USD</option>
</select> </td></tr>
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<option value="pineapple red">pineapple red $10.00 USD</option>
<option value="pineapple green">pineapple green $10.00 USD</option>
</select> </td></tr>
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Soild pink 6 available</div>
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solid red 2 available</div>
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I will post pictures in different sets. Make sure you post the quantity and shipping choice when you purchase. For just $10.00 each necklace/bracelet you can get a nice gift and bless our family and our family in Ethiopia, who might I add is really struggling financially right now. We have almost 200 to sell. Will you please pass the word. Thanks friends!<br />
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[SET 1] 1 left </div>
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[SET 2] 10 available</div>
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<br />
If you purchase more than 2, I will refund excess shipping...I can put several in a flat rate mailer for $5.00...I hate making any $$ off shipping costs, so don't worry I will get your excess shipping back to you.<br />
Thanks for your support!<br />
<br />
Love you all!<br />
Gina <br />
<br />
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-27544611396263304072013-04-01T10:35:00.002-07:002013-04-01T10:40:52.742-07:00two in one day?! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
In light of my last blog post...Adoption. This song is so my heart right now.<br />
<br />
Especially the chorus!<br />
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders [YES! Lord let me trust without borders!]<br />
Let me walk upon the waters<br />
Wherever You would call me [YES!LORD wherever WHEREVER you would call me!]<br />
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander [take me deeper lord Jesus!]<br />
And my faith will be made stronger [I love to see His faith produced in HIS people!]<br />
In the presence of my Savior [to be Present all day long with my JESUS!]<br />
<br />
Here's the whole song...listen and let Him speak to your heart!<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dy9nwe9_xzw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<br />
<br />
Love you all!<br />
Gina </div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-62626500585900011052013-03-23T10:46:00.004-07:002013-03-23T10:46:58.392-07:00My downfall.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Most of my friends know this about me. I have many downfalls.<br />
My biggest downfall is probably the fact that in my mind wrong is wrong. Right is right.<br />
To waiver on this is so very hard for me.<br />
My mind says its wrong, don't do it.<br />
My heart says extend a little grace, but if its wrong address it [lovingly] and don't do it.<br />
<br />
When its right, by all means it right.<br />
Encourage the right.<br />
But lets not idolize the person for the right, rather thank Jesus for the right He has done and letting us see the right.<br />
to Him be the glory.<br />
<br />
These last few days, I've been really struggling with the wrong is wrong.<br />
This area I do not want to waiver on.<br />
I'm praying constantly about it. Loosing sleep over my prayer time.<br />
This has very much to do with my kids.<br />
Wrongs being done to them.<br />
turning a bling eye is wrong.<br />
<br />
I can not. I will not turn a blind eye. I am their mom.<br />
<br />
Am I looking for perfection? No. Absolutely not. Perfection was only done on the cross.<br />
I know we can not expect that in this human world.<br />
However, does this mean we should not try?<br />
Absolutely not.<br />
Jesus asks us to strive for righteousness.<br />
<br />
<span class="text Matt-5-1">And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. </span> <span class="text Matt-5-2" id="en-NKJV-23237"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:</span> <br />
<div class="poetry top-1">
<div class="line">
<span class="text Matt-5-3" id="en-NKJV-23238"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup><span class="woj">“Blessed <i>are</i> the poor in spirit,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-5-3"><span class="woj">For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.</span></span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-5-4" id="en-NKJV-23239"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup><span class="woj">Blessed <i>are</i> those who mourn,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-5-4"><span class="woj">For they shall be comforted.</span></span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-5-5" id="en-NKJV-23240"><sup class="versenum">5 </sup><span class="woj">Blessed <i>are</i> the meek,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-5-5"><span class="woj">For they shall inherit the earth.</span></span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-5-6" id="en-NKJV-23241"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup><span class="woj">Blessed <i>are</i> those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-5-6"><span class="woj">For they shall be filled.</span></span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-5-7" id="en-NKJV-23242"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup><span class="woj">Blessed <i>are</i> the merciful,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-5-7"><span class="woj">For they shall obtain mercy.</span></span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-5-8" id="en-NKJV-23243"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup><span class="woj">Blessed <i>are</i> the pure in heart,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-5-8"><span class="woj">For they shall see God.</span></span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-5-9" id="en-NKJV-23244"><sup class="versenum">9 </sup><span class="woj">Blessed <i>are</i> the peacemakers,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-5-9"><span class="woj">For they shall be called sons of God.</span></span></span><br /><span class="text Matt-5-10" id="en-NKJV-23245"><sup class="versenum">10 </sup><span class="woj">Blessed <i>are</i> those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Matt-5-10"><span class="woj">For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.</span></span></span></div>
</div>
Matthew 5:1-10<br />
<br />
I strive for this righteousness in everything I do.<br />
I. fail. constantly.<br />
But I don't give up.<br />
<br />
So pray for me. That my heart would be pure.<br />
and that righteousness would prevail.<br />
<br />
Love you friends!<br />
Gina <br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-32040283871571221842013-03-18T16:56:00.001-07:002013-03-19T09:04:01.193-07:00He hears.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The truth.<br />
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Xoxo!<br />
Gina <br />
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Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5559607982107345232.post-31543091692162951512013-03-11T16:00:00.001-07:002013-03-11T16:00:49.073-07:00Getting healthy.I decided to start keeping track of what we are spending on our grocery budget. <br />
I'm praying its less than what we figured that we were spending.<br />
Cause that's a big number.<br />
More than I've ever spent before each month on groceries.<br />
But that's because we are eating consciously, healthy and organic.<br />
We've always dabbles in organic foods. Em has only ever had organic milk since she could drink milk. But after all the health concerns and issues going around in this country, I believe a lot has to do with the way we eat. So enough dabbling and more label reading and mostly organic foods that are fresh, not processed.<br />
We are doing all this in the midst of saving for some pretty expensive things coming our way.<br />
Tonight's dinner was:<br />
Mahi mahi from trader joes<br />
Organic steamed broccoli from Costco<br />
Jasmine rice from SAMs club<br />
Organic whole wheat homemade biscuits <br />
Cost for everything...$20.00 for a family of 5. Not too bad. Organic and delicious!<br />
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And as a family we've been exercising 3 nights a week minimum. We are getting stronger, brushing off this winter weight and getting ready to enjoy spring and summer. Em and I have been doing Pilates the other 2 to 3 nights a week. We're really enjoying spending some girl time together and getting healthy.<br />
Xoxo.<br />
Gina<br />
Ginahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16684119497546656833noreply@blogger.com0