Thankful!

These two were sick through thanksgiving. We still had a great thanksgiving with G-ma here, with lots of turkey and other wonderful food. Kalena braved through a temperature of 104 last night like a champ. I was so proud of her and they way she handled it.

G-ma, Daddy, Andrew and Katie went to get the Christmas tree today and Kalena and Sara stayed with me. They had never before seen a hideaway bed come out of a couch. I had never before had reason to take the bed out, or thought to even to explain that it was there.  I was setting them up to watch a movie, and decided to pull the hideaway bed out for them to lay on together. Their reaction was priceless. At first they were confused... What was I talking about and why was I taking the couch pillows off.... turning the couch into a bed? It seemed so wierd.  Then when I pulled the bed out and unfolded it to reveal a beautiful full mattress their reaction was so sweet. They just gasped in silence and looked at each other amazed. It was so simple and silly on one hand, but one of those sweet moments I will always remember. I can't put into words how much I love my kids and love watching them learn and explore. I feel so blessed this thanksgiving that God has given me these four wonderful children that are such treasures. I am truly loving and cherishing each moment of their childhood and I wish it would last forever. I am one SEARIOUSLY blessed Mamma!

Womans Retreat

Jen W did an amazing job teaching on Biblical  friendship at our NC Woman's Retreat. Gospel humility in friendships= getting the focus off yourself and always considering others above and before yourself. It was an amazing time with some really amazing women. I fell so increadibly blessed!!

Sammy is One!

Art Wall

Every once in a while the school displayes some art in the office. We are not the most artistically bent family, in terms of printed art. I don't even check the board. But a friend emailed me these photos. We got on the board! Way to go Kalena! 

This makes me think about the searies our pastor is doing right now about spiritual gifts. It has been so eye opening and refreshing to learn so much about the gifts and using them. Some of my favorite things I've been reminded of: If we are not using our gifts, the body of Christ does not function properly. Your gifts are not a gift to you to sit back and admire, but they are accually a gift to the church. We say "my spiritual gifting" but it's not yours at all. It is ment to be for others. 

Spiritual gifts are not your natural talents. Although your talents can be used for the Lord, spiritual gifts are clearly stated in scripture. Music abilities, physical abilities ect are talents from the Lord and can be used in conjunction with your gifts, but are not your gifts. Also, the gifts of toungues, healing and miracles were all mentioned in the first era of the very first church in order for people to know the power behind the gospel, but then Paul does not mention them again as he further instructs churches. If they were to be still practiced, there is no way he would have left them out of his comprhensive teachings on the subject. These miraculous gifts would have been among the ones he listed. I was glad to get complete clarity on that subject. Although I didn't explain it all well just now, Jon did do a fabulous job of explaining it. I am so thankful for Jon and Kent and my amazing husband, who so faithfully study God's Word so people like me can understand it. I thank God for all the resources we have to truly study and understand what God is saying to us. I am also thankful that He gives us what we need to be a part of His church and to thrive in it... And it makes no difference if you are a one gift or a many gifted one. Striving with everything you have to use whatever he has given you for His glory is the goal. 

Kalena, this is beautiful. It is also beautiful to watch how hard you work everyday to do your best with what God has given you. I love you.

Paintings

Katie's art today. A fixer machine, cleaning machine, and a house builder. I love everyday doing preschool with this little one!