The McGinnis Message

New blog location

2011-12-11T23:22:00.001-05:00

I am now at themcginnismessage.wordpress.com.

Come visit me there!

Change is good!

2011-10-20T01:48:00.001-04:00

I've made the switch....

My new blog address is:

themcginnismessage.wordpress.com

Thanks!

Grace.

2011-10-18T01:00:00.002-04:00

We've been lied to.

The truth has been exposed but denial runs rampant.

When requests are made, I don't want to fulfill them.

So glad my heavenly father doesn't feel that way about me.

I need Jesus....my heart is so hard.

I pray for grace to abound so the Truth will be known in the heart of my child.

The burden isn't upon me.

Will our child see grace in us?

Will our child see Jesus?

Will our child thirst for Living Water?

Praying for my child's heart tonight.

Praying for confession and forgiveness.

Grace....it changes everything.

It's soccer season again

2011-10-16T00:21:00.001-04:00

Making the switch (?)

2011-10-14T23:29:00.002-04:00

Blogger is getting on my nerves.....

Seriously considering switching to WORDPRESS.

Kind of scared.....

Destin Seafood Festival PART I

2011-10-13T02:31:00.001-04:00

She loves CFA, even at the beach!

2011-10-12T00:49:00.001-04:00

WATCH HER SLURP!

Columbus Day 2011

2011-10-10T22:33:00.005-04:00

All the public schools were in session today, but our little private school had the day off. We spent it doing a myriad of things around the house and about.....

First, Mitch went to the doctor to learn he had an ear infection of great proportions which meant his next stop was the pharmacy at Publix. He has been suffering from the infection for probably a week - and kept our kids all weekend so I could go to Atlanta for our denominational women's conference. He taught SS, preached a sermon, clothed, bathed, and fed our kids with joy. I surely married a wonderful man.

Today for lunch, some new friends from church came over and chowed down on some Italian food with us. She even brought her homemade bread.....which I lathered with butter.

Then, Luke made banana smoothies for the first time. Yeah, he might just be a chef one day.
.

Andrew worked on his STAR WARS Lego set and read a book for school. He would have been outside if it hadn't been raining.

Abigail put puzzles together on the floor with Rapunzel, Belle, Cinderella, and Jasmine.

Later, we visited Chrissy and Chad and helped them paint the living room in their new house. I think Chad's gonna have to apply a second coat.

I'm looking forward to being back in the classroom tomorrow. The 12 little girls God has given me are really a treasure to spend my mornings with. Although there is NEVER a quiet moment in the classroom, I love how excited they are to memorize God's Word, sing songs of rejoicing, and find Christ in all the things they learn.

Wurd....

Friends

2011-10-10T21:03:00.001-04:00

Hanging out with you is a highlight of my week!

...So glad you are at WPC.....love you all!

Jennifer just walked out a few

minutes before we took this picture.

We love you, Jennifer!

Just another afternoon at the beach

2011-10-06T23:46:00.002-04:00

All week we've been saying, "This time last week, we were at the beach." We made some wonderful memories, all of which our children are still referring to everyday.

Building sand castles while singing hymns out loud to herself....something I'm thankful for.

The kids found a live crab on the sand and were fascinated by how it moved and waved its claws in the air.

Andrew's name means BRAVE.....he didn't hesitate to pick up this amazing creature and show it off to the camera.

A sweet memory made....fishing in the shallows with Dad.

This jellyfish was dead when we found it so we scooped it up with our net and placed it farther up the beach so we could examine it closer.

Mitch and Andrew were in the ocean fishing but we were able to snap this shot to prove that I really was a part of this trip.

A public water display

2011-10-04T00:57:00.002-04:00

Water is everywhere in Florida....even at the Destin Commons. The kids loved being able to play in the fun squirting fountains, jumping around trying to catch the pattern and avoid getting water punched. It was pure joy to watch them play and laugh together.

They are wild in the U.S.A.!

2011-10-03T00:35:00.002-04:00

Just a gator and her babies that we spotted in Alabama during a pit-stop toward Florida this past week.

Until college, some friends might know that I thought all alligators in America were only in zoos. That all changed one day when I parked my car in a restaurant parking lot in Orlando in front of a fence with a sign that read, "For your safety, please DO NOT cross fence line. Live alligators live in this creek.".....WHAT!?!?!?!?

Yeah, I've been edumacated since.

Sweet treat

2011-10-03T00:26:00.002-04:00

Thank you for my sweet surprise treat last week that you left on my desk, Joie! I have enjoyed spending my mornings and lunch time with you at school and I only regret not doing it sooner....like 7 years ago when we first met!

Vacation DAY ONE

2011-10-03T00:20:00.001-04:00

We just returned home from a lovely quiet family vacation. Every family needs time away and we are so thankful for some sweet friends who blessed us with their place down on the panhandle of Florida, along the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. There was never a boring or dull moment spent, even if it included sleep - or rest in various other forms.

Day One kept us busy on the sand.....seriously! We spent ALL DAY on the beach until it was time to shower for dinner. We swam and spotted dolphins, built sand castles, started and finished reading a book, caught hermit crabs, dug moats, and sat on our bums!

We are all family

2011-09-30T09:44:00.003-04:00

I'm at Jennie's house everyday. I pick up her children from school and then, once I get them home, I sit for a while and we let our children play together (most of the time, that makes a house full of nine kids). Jennie has begun to refer to my brood as her "second family" and calls us that as we walk in the door every afternoon. Last week, after greeting us at the door with, "Hello, my second family!", Luke replied with direct eye contact and a smile and said, "Yep, we are in the same family. We are all in the same family."

Wow......he's getting the gospel.

He's understanding community.

Jesus is gripping his heart.

Jawan's Taco Soup (via Maja)

2011-09-27T21:42:00.003-04:00

Since Fall is here and the weather will be cooling off a bit, I thought I'd post one of my favorite soup recipes. Melissa is always emailing me for it since she is in a different state every year and misplaces her recipe card. Really, I just think it's an excuse she gives to email, text, or call me....and I love it! What was I talking about? Oh, yeah.....soup. No one in my family likes onions or large chunks of tomato so you'll find none in my recipe...but you can always add them if you'd like!

EASY TACO SOUP

Ingredients
1.5 lbs ground beef, drained
(1) pack Ranch dressing
(2) packs taco seasoning
(1) 29 oz can tomato sauce
(1) 29 oz can water
(2) cans of shoepeg corn
(2) cans of black beans

Procedure
Brown, drain, & rinse beef.
Add tomato sauce & water. (After emptying sauce, refill can with water)
Drain/rinse both corn & beans - add to pot.
Add Ranch & taco seasoning.
Heat & stir!

Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese, and corn chips.

This recipe makes a lot of soup so it's perfect for eating half now and freezing the other half for later. YUM!

The front row

2011-09-25T16:09:00.002-04:00

I don't have to sit near the front if I don't want to.

...but I want to.

Sitting on the second row helps myself and my children to worship. It gives them a direct visual line to watch their dad preach, the pianist and violinist play, to see the community they have been given, to see the sacrament of baptism with clarity, and to watch communion be administered and valued.

Sitting on the second row also means that the congregation gets a great view of me disciplining my children. There's a sweet couple that sit behind us each Sunday and I've often turned to them after the service and said, "Carol, I apologize for the squirming and constant bulletin dropping on your feet", to which she's always replied, "What a blessing those children are! I count it joy to be able to watch your children worship, no matter how often I have to bend over and pick up their things. If I didn't, we wouldn't keep sitting behind you all!".

Today, as a closing hymn, we sang "In Christ Alone". Although we sing this song often, the words still grab my heart and remind me of my desperate state. How merciful and gracious is the Father!

...So, the congregation got to see the snot and tears flow from my orifices as I sang with my family this morning.

Praise God!

Tea Party

2011-09-24T22:56:00.004-04:00

~ The real thing ~

Happy birthday to our friend, Sarah Ann!

Because numbering my random thoughts wouldn't make any sense

2011-09-21T00:22:00.002-04:00

Abigail has had a deep raspy cough for the past two days....and it's getting worse. When we got home from school this afternoon, we sent the boys to their grandparent's house for some quality time and dinner while I got to stay home and snuggle in the bed with my sweet daughter.

When she woke, she turned over to me and said, "I like sleeping with you, Mama, 'cause you're always so warm."

Yep, I am extremely hot-nature'd. Fortunately, the thermostat for the rooms on my hallway at school is located in my classroom. All the other teachers are welcome at any time to stick their head in and adjust the temperature - but for the most part, I get to choose where I want to settle in the 70s. I freeze out all the teachers, I know. "Thank goodness for sweaters", I tell them.

God has brought several new families to our church, most with young children. There have been 18-20 kids on average each Sunday - the halls are filled with laughter and beautiful noise.

In my preschool class at school (you know, the one with 12 girls and zero boys), we have been studying the country of Canada. My little girls know the three seas surrounding our northern neighbor, the colors and design of Canada's flag, and that English and French are the nation's languages. It's been neat to watch these little ones show interest and retain the information from day to day. After coloring the maple leaf and sticking the Canadian flag on a straw this afternoon, I couldn't resist sending a text pic to Coralie. Then, as a class, we prayed for Canada and for Abigail's friend, "Mackerdoodle". Even though most of my students had no clue who we were praying for, but because this little friend was dear to their classmate's heart, they bowed their heads and listened as Abigail prayed out loud. Wish I had had a video of it.....dang, where's my tissue?

During the summer months (which meant time off from work), I cooked at home almost every night. Now, I'm challenged to get a good meal on the table before two soccer practices, one ballet rehearsal, and errand running. I have no idea what to set out for tomorrow's dinner but I'm thankful for our school spirit night at ChickFilA this Thursday evening!

Tomorrow afternoon I will leave my four year olds and travel across town to teach basic photography fundamentals to 17 year olds. I am so nervous.

I really enjoy deep conversation. You know, the kind of conversation that makes you think, makes you grateful, makes you wonder and sit in awe, makes you worship.

As I type right now, it's raining....hard. The thunder is loud and the lightening is lighting up the whole house. Everyone is asleep and I am sitting here by the window listening to Matt Kearny sing through my Spotify account. Bliss!

Captured my own...finally

2011-09-18T23:04:00.002-04:00

On our drive home through rural parts of Georgia Saturday afternoon, we saw a sign for a covered bridge. We took the quick right and jumped out to explore. This was finally my opportunity to capture a few cute photos of my own kids.

Adorable!

I tell them everyday that they mustn't grow up.

Her first birthday

2011-09-18T01:30:00.001-04:00

Just recent pics

2011-09-16T02:35:00.001-04:00

I love this little girl. So glad I get the honor of spending every moment of my day with her.

They hang out every afternoon together after school while I clean up my classroom. They take turns doing what the other wants to do.

We are doing a unit study on the country of Haiti. She loves looking at the picture of the people and culture life in the book.

Music reminds

2011-09-16T00:13:00.000-04:00

Listening to JJ Heller tonight and being reminded of the gospel.

Fall kickoff

2011-09-14T01:04:00.002-04:00

The fall season brings many changes to schedules in our lives. Sports, clocks, weather....and small group! Our church is growing and it's exciting to see the need for more room, more small groups, more Bible studies, and more conversation. God has brought many Army families to our congregation that are actually going to be in town for 2-3 years - they've even bought houses! Also, a Korean PCA church has begun meeting in our facilities so we now have Korean friends (and food!) that we see weekly and get to fellowship with over food and other events.

Our children are watching, listening, and learning to walk in grace through relationships, too. I told someone last Sunday that I remember seven years ago when our children's Sunday school class consisted of just three little ones (two of which were mine) - guess how many kids were in SS this past week? 18! There are now three children's classes and it seems that Children's Church will now require a third helper. Adult SS is packed with college students, new parents, empty-nesters, and those in an older generation. I am encouraged to see friendships form between the women of all ages as we realize how much we need each other.

A walk along the river

2011-09-11T01:55:00.001-04:00

I always have more pictures than words to publish.

The weather over the past few days has returned to the 90s - so we've been sweating a lot! Naturally, it made sense to use a few hours of today to enjoy each other and ride bikes long the river that flows through our city. Our kids loved the freedom of biking on the paved path and probably felt a little bit of independence being a good bit ahead of us on the trail. I'd like to make this a weekly occurrence this fall!

Mitch and I held hands from time to time while walking

....and I liked it. Tee-hee!

Friendship is sweet

2011-09-10T01:16:00.001-04:00

Last night was an evening full of fun with friends, albeit it blurry friends.

Q goes with U

2011-09-09T21:11:00.000-04:00

It seems that the riding in the car is the time when my children really seem to share the most with me about their day. Andrew reminded me of a language rule when coming home tonight:

Andrew: "Mama....did you know that q can't go anywhere without u?"

Me: "Yep! So good that you remember that rule, Andrew! That will be a huge help to you when you're taking your spelling tests this year."

Andrew: "U can go out alone but q has to stay home if he's alone."

Me: "Keep reminding yourself of that when you're spelling words like....."

Andrew: (interrupting) "....like cutie!"

Well......not really.

A picture will have to do

2011-09-06T17:35:00.004-04:00

a book in bed

2011-09-02T23:53:00.002-04:00

Abigail usually has a book in the bed with her when she falls asleep each night. Tonight, she said to me in the darkness of her room, "Mama, do you know why I like to sleep with my Bible? 'Cause it makes me feel safe at night in case I get scared."

My

heart

melted.

Another tender moment just a few seconds later when she said, "I like the true story of Jonah, Mama. God opened the mouth of that big fish and SPIT Jonah out just like that! Jonah disobeyed at first but then he changed his mind. That's so cool!".

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T01:34:00.000-04:00

Cooling off

2011-08-30T23:20:00.003-04:00

It is still HOT here in Georgia!

How hot is it?

So hot that, while spending time with a friend this afternoon and giving our kids some play time together, I jumped in her pool with all my clothes on!

The kids joined in and we had a grand time cooling off.

I think I better carry my swim suit in my car from now on.

My mother and her sister

2011-08-30T01:56:00.003-04:00

On the left, my East coast mama.

On the right, my West coast aunt.

Aren't they beautiful?

Tanagram practice

2011-08-30T01:35:00.002-04:00

To keep from being "bored!"....

You broke my chicken patty!

2011-08-29T00:31:00.004-04:00

We just spent 2+ days at Grandma's house where rules were lax and I slacked in my attention to what went into my kids' mouths.....not that my dinner choice below made any difference.

So, while driving back to Columbus tonight with the kids (alone, I might add), I realized that we would be taking the almost three hour drive right through dinner time. This meant I had to stop and order drive-thru food to keep the kids and myself sane (and awake). Burger King has these little mini-Krytal-like burgers and chicken sandwiches which come in a four pack that aid in helping to save money and not waste food. I made it clear to all three children that they could choose between beef or chicken. They said they wanted one of each which made the math work out perfectly for us all. I conquered the speaker and pick-up window with ease and parked to make lap trays and squirt ketchup/sauces.

Did you know that my sweet daughter really wanted chicken nuggets? She thought I could read her brain when she answered my question with, "chicken". So, for the next 45 minutes of our drive, she cried....declaring her disdain and frustration with her chicken in sandwich form and not in the usual processed nugget form (nutritious, I know.....and to think that I want to attempt this). She was so distraught that she refused the sandwich (and fries - horrors!) and said, "Mama, I'm sad and mad!". When she realized I wasn't going to give her what she wanted, she took her chicken patty and tore it in half so she could justify not eating it at all. I looked at her in the rear mirror and saw her pouting, crying, and keeping an eye on me. When she caught my glance, she declared, "Mama. You have broken my heart and my chicken patty. Now I will go hungry forever!".

She asked once more if I would stop to get her what she wanted so she wouldn't be mad at me anymore. I instructed her to take responsibility and eat what's been given to her - or go hungry. That made her angry but I told her to stop fussing and talking about it because I wasn't going to change my mind.

As we kept driving, she began to nibble at the sandwich and eventually gobbled it all down. I smiled to myself and remembered a powerful statement from a post I read a while back:

...if I am willing to die for you, then having you upset with me because I am protecting you is a relatively small thing in my world. - Chris Brauns

And to think that she asked for dessert when we got home!

She fell asleep on the couch like this - NO LIE!

2011-08-26T02:40:00.002-04:00

A classroom observation

2011-08-25T23:24:00.003-04:00

First, let me preface this post by saying that I think I should buy some of these.

After coming in from lunch and recess, I read a book every afternoon to my class. They gather around my feet as I sit in the mammoth rocking chair. They gaze up at me and into the pages of playful words and colorful illustrations. As I was at my desk the other day taking notes of my plans and instructing my class to read quietly for three minutes, I looked up to see two little girls licking their middle fingers as they turned their pages. HOW CUTE! I asked them where they learned to do that little trick and they both replied, "From you, Mrs. Jawan! You do it all the time when you read to us in the afternoons!".

They are watching EVERYTHING I do....that's scary!

Pack, pack, pack, & pack

2011-08-24T15:06:00.004-04:00

This is what I do every evening before I go to bed....pack 4 lunches. I have to pray as I pack these boxes because it's tedious and I am often so tired that I don't want to do it. However, God reminds me of his abundance, both in food and in the blessing of my family. My kids haven't complained yet so I'm apparently packing them "right"!

Silly thoughts

2011-08-21T15:09:00.001-04:00

Abigail has made us laugh this weekend.

Her first question: "Mama, what is a honeymoon?"

Her second question: "Mama, when Christmas comes, will you buy me a bow and arrow so I can shoot all the bad guys?"

She is keeping me on my toes!

PresWIC council

2011-08-21T03:06:00.004-04:00

I traveled to the middle part of my state yesterday to meet up with several other women in our presbytery for a training workshop. My favorite part of these times is always hugging and laughing with friends that months have passed between our visits. I am especially drawn to the ladies that serve on the council with me....thank you, Sheila, Diane, Kathy, Lois, Jessica, and Marla! ....I really love you.

And another one....

2011-08-20T21:59:00.003-04:00

She attended a friend's princess birthday party today.

Yes, she loved it.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T23:10:00.002-04:00

A beggin' we will go

2011-08-17T00:11:00.003-04:00

Even though my in-laws have a pool that we can swim in anytime we want, our kids still begged everyday upon leaving school or church on Sunday, "Please! Will you take us to swim at the pool across the street?" (it stares at us from across the street at church/school, looking all kinds of relaxing). We finally caved - well, thanks to the pool schedule announcement that it would be closing for Fall in three short weeks. The slide, the spring boards, the deep end, the water blasters.....we should have gone sooner!

Just a self-portrait to remind me that I haven't had my hair cut in a very long time. I usually get my hair cut just twice a year but I'm thinking that I really need to make it more of a habit. At least the hair clips were a good investment.

A trip to Hobby Lobby this afternoon brought out the cowgirl in her.

A little girl has my heart

2011-08-13T23:03:00.006-04:00

Abigail and I spent most of the morning together today, just the two of us. The area in our city known as Uptown has a Saturday morning market of sorts where all kinds of vendors line the sidewalks, selling their handmade/homegrown goods. As we strolled the booths, we crossed paths with many sculptures that stand on many corners and crossings along the way.

She asked, "Mama, take my picture with this boy and his dog."

Next, "Mama, watch me stick my tongue out like this little girl!"

Abigail held my hand as we stopped and tasted delights such as homemade granola, fresh loaf bread, natural honey, and petted a basket full of six week old kittens - free for the taking (we didn't take one, btw).

I treasured that two hours of time with her. My heart overflows with love for this child and I pray the time impacted her heart and reminded her of the deep love of our Father. Speaking of simple things and holding her on my hip reminded ME of an article I read last week. Here's just a snippet:

When girls are well-known by parents–both the best and the worst about them–they “dare” move close to their heavenly Father because they understand grace. It has been offered to them from childhood. And it all stems from listening to them–knowing them better than they know themselves, then caring deeply and intimately for their souls. This is what they most want. They will love you deeply for it.

HT: Barbara Challies

Trying to empty my card

2011-08-11T23:31:00.004-04:00

Her first dive ever.

We're going to work on the belly buster part.

Coloring every page in the book.

He actually enjoys doing this often during the day (just like his dad).

Eating breakfast together last week during one of the last lazy late summer mornings before school was to start.

A canvas I drew and painted for a friend who just adopted a toddler from India.

Luke's free hand drawing. I am amazed!

His muse....

First day of school (2nd grade, PreK, and kindergarten). Luke NEVER looks happy each year for this picture. Andrew lost one of his front teeth the night before....notice the gap.

Isn't he just adorable?

Just a few funny things....

2011-08-10T01:06:00.003-04:00

My friend just adopted a little boy from India and he came "home" this past weekend. When her husband left to fly across the globe to get him, he took along a toy that would give them some play-time together in the orphanage before flying back.

What toy did he take? A farm set of dairy cows with fences and pasture - yeah, not such a good idea.

By the way, my friend and I laughed about this 'til we peed our pants. I told her I was gonna blog about it so I have her permission to joke publicly about their toy choice!

______________________________

Also, I teach a room of eleven little girls - it's a load of fun, I tell ya. For instance, they can't seem to get their tongue to cooperate when addressing my husband. So, when he walks into my classroom each day, he is officially greeted with, "Hey, Pister Match!".

______________________________

When playing the game Scattergories two summers ago during small group, the category was "Street Names". I quickly wrote my answer, no hesitation. When the time came to give our answers, I was surprised to find that everyone else came up with names like Broad, Main, Pennsylvania, and Sunset. My line of thinking was more of STREET NAMES, if you know what I mean. I wrote "G-Money".

What!?

Toothless grin

2011-08-07T17:00:00.001-04:00

Finally lost a third tooth.....what a cute smile!

How long have I said this to myself?

2011-08-07T00:09:00.001-04:00

Callaway play

2011-08-05T23:41:00.003-04:00

Callaway Gardens has free admission every Friday after 4PM this summer so we took full advantage of it today. The kids stayed in the lake for two solid hours before taking a break for our picnic dinner and then getting back in again. A tradition at Callaway is the FSU flying circus so I was excited to see how our children would react seeing their first trapeze act - they loved it even more than swimming in the lake!

The weather for the evening was actually not too hot (thanks to the large fans under the circus tent) and the children didn't complain at all about anything. We were surprised that all three kids stayed awake on the 25 minute drive home but they were ready to collapse once we unloaded the car.

So thankful that God has given us a fake beach nearby!

Day 68 (One of the best ones yet)

2011-08-01T00:42:00.005-04:00

Just realized that I only have two more days til this "Day _" thing ends. I go back to work on Wednesday. Many people have asked me if I'm ready to return to the classroom.....my answer has been "No and yes." I love, love, love my job and couldn't ask for a better work environment, a sweeter boss, A finer looking board chairman (Hey, Babe!), friendliest co-workers, the best working hours, daily challenging skill tests, or cuter students (11 girls in my class, by the way. The cap is 12....come get that last spot, little guy!)....so, yes - I'm ready for the school year to begin!

However, my heart is at home. 'Nuff said.

Mitch finished his Old Testament sermon series today (well, he might have one more sermon up his sleeve regarding the depression of Elijah). It has been refreshing to read, see, taste, and listen to the gospel weaved into the usual stories of the Bible that most have heard from childhood - Noah, David, Daniel, Elisha, Elijah.... I have also enjoyed watching Andrew listen and later ask questions about the true stories. The gospel is penetrating his heart and it's a neat and wonderful miracle to witness. Andrew is understanding the Truth that there is only one true God and that He sent a Savior to rescue him from his evil, dirty, wretched heart. I pray that Andrew knows the love of the Father and how he pursues with such passion. Amazing grace!

As I picked Andrew up today from his weekend visit with his uncle, he and I had great conversation in the car about all the fun things he did with my brother - fishing, swimming, and playing golf. But, when I asked him to tell me his most FAVORITE thing he did over the weekend, he said, "It was just spending time with the family at the house and going to Uncle S's gigantic church." WOW! Relationships are such a huge impact on our heart, huh? How incredible to hear him say those deep words.

But then, after such sweet exchanges of words, I got impatient with Andrew when he wouldn't move fast enough out of the car while in a parking lot. He had said he was hungry but seemed to be taking waaaaaay too much [of my] time acting on it. After I firmly (and too harshly) said his name three times from behind the car, he came around and said, "I was trying to hurry, Mama, but papers kept falling out of the car and I was just trying to put them back in so you could have them later." What a selfish worm I am. His eyes were wet with tears and I was the cause of them. Instead of building him up, I tore him down - all while he was serving me. Kind of reminded me of how the people screamed "Crucify him!" after just worshiping Jesus a few days prior.

Speaking of relationships, I almost lost it today behind the microphone at church while singing the congregational hymns. Every Sunday I get the joy of being able to stand in front of such beautiful people and make eye contact, receive smiles, watch children, notice families, and witness worship. Upon scanning faces today, there were at least five of my friends crying with their faces lifted to the sky, singing the words:

Oh to grace how great a debtor
Daily I'm constrained to be
Let your goodness like a fetter
Bind my wandering heart to thee
Prone to wander, Lord I feel it
Prone to leave the God I love
Here's my heart Lord,
Take and seal it
Seal it for thy courts above

Jesus sought me while a stranger
Wandering from the heart of God
And He to rescue me from danger
Used his own precious blood.

I saw Jesus in that room this morning. He was showing himself though so many personal stories in our church - the gospel woven into families as they await the arrivals of their adopted children, grieve through broken marriages, suffer from chronic sickness, are heartbroken from miscarriages, frustration with money, lost friendships, worries about parenting, lonely due to death, and weary from their mundane life. I saw people clinging to the cross as I looked across the room - and I was filled with hope! Mitch finished his sermon with this Scripture passage:

Lamentations 3:22-24 ~

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“therefore I will hope in him.”

I am blessed...beyond measure.

Days 64-67

2011-08-01T00:22:00.002-04:00

Wednesday -Ate dinner with a group of sweet friends (see post below)

Thursday - a low key day spent at home and then cleaning my classroom.

Friday - took Andrew to his uncle's house (my brother) near Atlanta for the weekend. Luke hung out with his cousin (Mitch's side of family) and went bowling, out to eat pancakes, and then an evening swim. Abigail and I spent three hours in my classroom painting and getting prepared for the first week of school.

Saturday - Ran errands ALL DAY long.

Probably boring information to most people but vital to my daily diary of McGinnis life.

Just a group of gals

2011-07-29T00:40:00.003-04:00

I love getting together with friends...especially over dinner! Can you guess the restaurant where we are pictured?

Day 63

2011-07-28T23:15:00.005-04:00

We spent all day Tuesday at Stone Mountain Park. We love this place! If you have never been, you should surely go. We highly recommend it - the staff are courteous and friendly and the service is superb. Our kids won't stop talking about the Sky Hike and Yogi Bear Experience.

Driving the boat.

Sweating while playing a round of mini-golf.

She's so serious about her putts.

Luke was a mad man on the high rock wall!

I was amazed that he went all the way to the top!

Top of the mountain.

A trio of quackers.

Abigail's favorite part of the entire day was

her continuous ride down the zip line.

Over and over and over and over and.....

Day I Dunno

2011-07-28T21:56:00.003-04:00

I think it was Day 62. I dunno...so tired....

Took the kids to the library to see a drummer.

Really cool.

That's all.

Luke was invited to play an instrument

(it made a sound resembling a galloping horse).

Andrew played a rain stick and helped lead the audience

to make a thunderstorm with their voices.

Her usual self

2011-07-25T03:05:00.001-04:00

Day 61

2011-07-25T03:01:00.003-04:00

Another delightful time of worship with our church family yesterday.

Day 60

2011-07-25T03:00:00.001-04:00

LAZY!!!!!!

Day 59 in pictures (a few, anyway)

2011-07-21T21:08:00.004-04:00

Crazy Mr. Keith leading the children in Bible class - singing Scripture!

Alice Ann and Emily work on a craft together.

Two silly cousins hang out at VBS.

Day 58

2011-07-21T20:55:00.003-04:00

VBS is still going strong although the adults are all dragging in slowly each morning - me especially. It's worth it, though!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T00:22:00.002-04:00

Day 57

2011-07-19T23:36:00.002-04:00

Another fun morning at VBS, a two hour afternoon dip in the pool, home to watch a movie and rest, and then outside before bedtime to dig a few holes. That was weird to type.

Day 56 - VBS begins!

2011-07-18T23:52:00.006-04:00

Vacation Bible School started today and we had over 60 children in attendance (that's HUGE for our small church)! We wrote our own curriculum based around five songs of the Seeds Family Worship album entitled PURPOSE. The children are singing Scripture as they do the hand motions/signs for the words. As we ran a few errands this afternoon, I listened to Abigail sing today's song loudly from her seat. My heart leaped to hear her sing such glorious promises!

This is what we'll all be doing for the next four days so expect a lot more pictures of our time singing, crafting, eating, and playing!

Day 55

2011-07-18T23:47:00.005-04:00

After picking up the kids from their grandmother's house, we played at home until time to go back to church for small group. I bought a pool for the kids to play in on the back porch on these hot Georgia summer days but I let them keep it indoors so they can invent various games in it when it's more convenient.

Abigail decided to make a bed and then turned it into a nursery for her babies.

My favorite bands

2011-07-17T02:07:00.005-04:00

Just because I can listen to them sing all night....

Day 53-54

2011-07-16T01:35:00.003-04:00

Friday and Saturday...

All three children spent Friday and Saturday nights at their grandmother's house 2.5 hours down south. Mitch and I slept late, went out to eat lunch, shopped for essentials, saw a matinee, cooked a simple dinner, and worshiped at church....then we drove to pick up the kids.

That's all!

Underwater siblings

2011-07-15T21:55:00.003-04:00

It's so hot here in Georgia! Most of our summer has been spent in the pool where we've had fun diving for toys, jumping off the board, racing from end to end, and playing Categories & Marco Polo.

Day 52

2011-07-14T23:31:00.006-04:00

Today was a day of cooking FREEZER meals - something I've always wanted to do but just never got around to doing. Alone with Jennie, we doubled up our recipes and completed four delicious dinners! We already have it on the calendar for our next cooking day and plan on making more meals the next go 'round, but we were quite proud of our accomplishment and the "breathing room" it will give.

Here's what we made:

Chicken Potato Casserole

Pepperoni Pasta Bake (with added hamburger 1/2 lb)

Meatloaf

Bean burritos

Our boys staying entertained while their mothers cook.

Countdown to next cooking day: 14 days (need new recipes!)

Day 51

2011-07-14T23:11:00.004-04:00

We did many things on this day but the only picture I took was of Andrew and Abigail writing with Sharpies on the newly bought watermelon. Can you sense the excitement?

Bad hair day

2011-07-14T01:47:00.002-04:00

Day 50

2011-07-13T01:49:00.000-04:00

Our cousin came over to play most of the day.

All of our toys got a good workout!

The Marble Run, Legos, Nerf gun, and the marble tilt game Labyrinthspel.

Our kids are a long way from being this good at the game but they are practicing (yeah, right)!

Sidewalk chalk is always fun but especially crafty when it's dipped in water to give the drawing a deeper color effect...of course, when it's 95 degrees outside, this activity doesn't last long.

Day 49

2011-07-13T01:13:00.002-04:00

Today, we swam and played basketball.

THE END.

Day 48- SUNDAY

2011-07-13T00:14:00.001-04:00

On the front sidewalk at church,

just hanging out with friends on a Sunday evening.

Day 47 - birthday party!

2011-07-11T00:49:00.018-04:00

Three days after her fourth birthday, our extended family and friends got together to celebrate Abigail's special occasion. It was a sweet, sweet time.

She's been asking for a bike since Christmas. Thanks to one of her grandparents, she finally got one. If it wasn't so wet outside from the rain, and time would allow, she would be outside pedaling at super speed all the day long. See that basket? She wants to put her dolls and water bottle in it so she can take them for a ride!

You can never take too many pictures of family!

Enjoying the cake and ice cream.

The little girls dressed up as various princess / characters and the adults smiled while watching them flit and float around the room playing musical chairs.

Abigail always loves spending time with these sisters, Anna and Megan. They seek her out and even pursue her by taking her out alone for ice cream and having Abigail over to their house to play. She invited the sisters to her party and they were delighted to come! I'm thankful that God is using these gals as godly examples of older women in love with Jesus.

Oh, how I want to cling to these younger years and soak up every minute of her life! It's true....they do grow up too fast. As she matures, I pray I will observe her heart soften and that she'll grab hold tightly to the gospel of Jesus, proclaiming his goodness to the nations.

Day 46

2011-07-10T00:54:00.004-04:00

It's a summer time, family tradition.

We LOVE Chick-Fil-A!

Day 45

2011-07-10T00:44:00.002-04:00

We stayed at home most of the day Thursday. We spent over an hour playing Saucer Scramble. What a fun game!

Day 44 - Abble's birthday!

2011-07-06T23:16:00.000-04:00

This was the day my sweet little girl turned four years old! She woke ME up bright and early with her arms open wide and a huge smile on her face. All she wanted was a huge hug and a welcome invitation to cuddle with me in my bed.

Such an undeserving gift God has given me....the gift of being this precious child's mother.

On her birthday, we spent a good part of the morning at a friend's house playing and eating lunch.

Then, we swam for a long time at Grandma's house but only after her brothers requested to have a dry picture taken with their sister before they all three jumped in the pool.

Finally, a cupcake with song to celebrate with the family.

I get to have Abigail in my class this year at school. Another gift given from the Father above.

Happy birthday, sweet baby girl. I know you won't be this small forever but I'm gonna savor every minute of it.

Enjoying Freedom in LaGrange

2011-07-06T01:10:00.005-04:00

Mitch is from LaGrange but we don't travel there often since he has no family living there anymore. However, we stopped through this past weekend and participated in a freedom celebration on THE SQUARE with watermelon and "people-watching."

Mmmmmm...good!

Luke insists on always being the funny guy....what a clown.

Day 43

2011-07-05T23:45:00.006-04:00

I didn't take a single picture today at all!

Nothing

Nada

Zilch

But here's a quick rundown of our day:

Husband and son attended a funeral

Two youngest children and Mom watched a free movie at The IMAX Theater

Came home and took naps

Watched a Disney film together

played with playdough

played with Moon Sand (ugh!)

washed clothes/folded clothes

children did their chores

prepared dinner (Breakfast!)

trip to Target and Publix for a few items

watched Unstoppable tonight with Mitch

Checking email now and editing photos

bedtime!

That's all.....

Tomorrow is my daughter's 4th birthday - I simply cannot believe it. I promise to take pictures and post of that occasion!

Day 42 - Happy 4th!

2011-07-05T00:49:00.008-04:00

Happy fourth of July!

I wish my camera battery hadn't died when five of the children from church broke out in song tonight during the fireworks..."Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday, dear America! Happy birthday to you!". Now, I'm not that huge into patriotic fanfare but hearing that song coming from their mouths on their own initiation was something special.

So, speaking of fireworks, we did our usual party cookout thing with the awesome peeps from church before we all headed to Callaway Gardens to enjoy the free fireworks on the lawn. When we prayed with the children tonight before bed, we thanked God to be living in a country where we can worship who and how we want. I pray the same is true for my children in 20, 30, 40, 50+ years.

Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.

Look at all those dads watching the kids....so encouraging to see men of faith serving others and loving their families.

This pictures speaks joy to me. All three of these men are taking care of their daughters by the pool while freeing their wives to converse and enjoy a break.

Day 41 SUNDAY!

2011-07-05T00:35:00.008-04:00

Oh, I love Sundays! Church is always good for my soul.

Luke's fifth birthday was this past December. Instead of getting gifts for his birthday, he asked for his friends to bring food, toys, and treats for a dog (any dog). We kept forgetting to actually take the treats to a shelter or rescue center until this past weekend. It's taken me seven months to finally help him fulfill his desire to deliver the treats....I'm a HUGE slacker! We remembered that PetSmart has the area rescue shelters come to the store in hopes of adopting out some of their animals so we packed up the treats and finally delivered the goods. Luke was so excited to help and be a part of giving pleasure to the dogs.

Then it rained most of the afternoon so we pulled random things out of the craft cabinet and settled on making some plastic forms. The kids really enjoyed the small attention to detail and we all sat at the table for over an hour making these little things (what do you do with them now, though?) and having fun conversation.

Meatloaf!

2011-07-05T00:24:00.002-04:00

Abigail is a fan of anything Phineas and Ferb. She memorizes almost all the songs (her favorite is "Gitchee Gitchee Goo") but this is her newest rendition of the one on the episode about meatloaf.....hilarious.

What's in that?!??!!

2011-07-03T02:12:00.007-04:00

Guess what my husband brought home tonight as a treat for us? I wasn't surprised that it had potato chips in it. I guess Mitch likes it also because it's Jimmy Fallon's favorite flavor - he cracks me up (both Mitch and Jimmy).

I'll let you know how it tastes after we open the top!

Our little rock star

2011-07-02T23:27:00.001-04:00

Day 40

2011-07-02T23:25:00.011-04:00

Believe it or not, we love spending a few minutes at Home Depot on the first Saturday each month - it allows the kids to be carpenters and bang the hammer against some nails! Today, they made a coaster set and plan to paint it sometime next week to add their creative touch and tell their's apart from their siblings'. They are eagerly awaiting the pencil box project in August.

Luke did all the placing and pounding by himself.

Dad has to help Abigail just a wee bit.

It's good to have Andrew back at home. He was in his element and finished the project without any assistance. Wow, he's growing up.

After eating lunch with some friends and taking an afternoon rest at home, we ventured to Mitch's parent's house for a swim and for dinner. One of my favorite moments to watch is when the kids get the deck of cards out and play GO FISH with their grandmother every time we visit. It will truly be a sweet memory for them (and her!).

And just as they were starting a new game, Abigail asked to play but needed help. Andrew scooped her up and put her in his lap so he could help her with her cards. After all the repeating, disciplining, and moments of helplessness that I've experienced today (and everyday), this was a moment that God used to show me himself. They are hearing the gospel and they really do love each other.

If I had gotten a more clear picture of this moment it would have meant that I would have had to get closer...I wasn't risking it! If they saw me take this, they might have split!

More of DAY 39

2011-07-02T02:03:00.006-04:00

After blueberry picking and relaxing with Luke and Abigail over lunch with some ice cream, it was time to depart Columbus and head to the woods of Alabama to pick up Andrew from camp. I was so excited to see him! Unfortunately, due to lightening and rain, the family evening program was cancelled but I did get to see some old friends while driving through to fetch Andrew. We had a great time as a family listening to Andrew's stories all the way home. He was so tired, though - sleeping soundly right now!

The camp has a Facebook page and posted a bunch of pictures from this past week. These are the only pictures I'll have of his time there this summer...and it looks like he had a blast! So thankful to the Lord for providing a way for Andrew to go. Luke is begging to go next summer - ummmm, do I smell a yard sale coming on?

May 39 - blueberries

2011-07-02T01:35:00.010-04:00

Our annual blueberry picking trip took place today. We had a caravan of 7 cars and a total of 27 people who went from church! We took over the blueberry bushes and took our time picking the sweet fruit. Our kids, sweaty and hot, had the most fun!

Picnic at the farm.

The farm also had an apple tree!

Three friends picking berries together.

Stop eating all the blueberries, Virginia & Nikki!

Now to get busy searching for recipes.....

got any good (and easy) ones to share?

Day 38

2011-07-02T00:57:00.008-04:00

Little things that happen make the day even sweeter.

Out of the blue, Luke said a memory verse he learned three weeks ago.

Psalm 139

¹ You have searched me, LORD,
and you know me.
² You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
³ You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
⁴ Before a word is on my tongue
you, LORD, know it completely.

(NIV)

And then, she said hers....

Psalm 48
14 For this God is our God for ever and ever;
he will be our guide even to the end.

They are indeed keeping His word hidden in their heart and retaining it!

Monkey Joe's in the afternoon as well as a haircut (he was long overdue for one, that shaggy little man!)

Day 37 Play and Pottery

2011-07-02T00:30:00.006-04:00

As you can tell, I've stopped trying to post the current day's events on the corresponding day. It's just too much work!

I love Wednesdays. Jennie opens her home every Wednesday morning for anyone from church to come swim with her family in her pool. Moms and Dads bring their kiddos over for a dip in the pool in this 90something degree weather with super high humidity - and we usually all pack a lunch so we can dry off in the heat while eating on her back porch. Before swimming, there's a lot of indoor play, too.....

Jennie, Luke, and Sally putting a huge table top puzzle together.

Building with blocks and a smile.

Luke has been counting down the days til this past Wednesday. Being the creative cat that he is, he has been eager to go to his first pottery class of the season. Not to mention that he got to go with his best friend in the world, Amelia.

Making a coil pot from clay.

Painting on the details.

Day 36

2011-07-01T02:04:00.006-04:00

This past Tuesday was the slowest day of our summer thus far (and I liked it!). A friend had a baby girl that morning so my only outing of the day was to the hospital to photograph the family's first day together. Look at the sushi on that cloth diaper! Adorable!

The rest of our day was spent at home playing OLD MAID, watching a movie, and just enjoying our time together.

More of Day 35

2011-07-01T01:33:00.008-04:00

Monday night happens to be Luke's favorite night of the week. If you were to ask him what he wants to do with his life when he grows up, he'll tell you that he wants to be a basketball player. Usually each Monday, Mitch takes the boys to practice while I stay home and cook or clean from dinner. This past week, however, Mitch couldn't go (he was cleaning up trees, remember?) so I took Luke instead. I AM SO GLAD I DID! I've never seen him be so aggressive (appropriately, mind you) and determined in anything. He ran up and down the court, scored 6 points, and passed the ball to his teammates. I couldn't keep my eyes off of him!

Praying after the game.

This is Luke's coach - Coach Lynwood. Since we started playing sports at the YMCA four years ago, Coach L has been a presence for every sport and on every field or court on which we compete. I see Coach L as a mentor in the lives of my boys. They have a fun relationship and have developed nicknames for each other that they like to yell out across the soccer field and basketball courts to get a laugh. I'm thankful for Coach Lynn's gentle spirit, his heart for God, and his passion for teaching children the joy of sports.

Luke is a sweat ball.....he even sweats when he sleeps. I wonder where he gets that hot-naturedness from? Yes, I know that it's not a word.

Just a few random pics

2011-07-01T01:11:00.005-04:00

Mitch couldn't contain his laughter over dinner the other night. He about lost his sweet tea and chips from his mouth. Yeah, that would have been gross...glad it didn't come to that. But, I just happened to have my camera at the table when he busted. We've been married almost 12 years and this man still makes me laugh hysterically.

Our little spider.

Her birthday is only a week away. She is having a princess party and dresses up as much as possible when she can find a dress. Then, she shows it off and begins her ballet routine. Cracks me up.

Two crazy monkeys that I found at Monkey Joe's.

Luke's favorite drinking glass. Don't ask me why he's got it with him next to the van.

Staring contest.....Luke won.

The grandmothers enjoy pictures, so this post if specifically made for them.

The reason Andrew is missing from these pictures is because he has been away at camp all week. He will return, I promise!

Day 35 - Monday

2011-07-01T01:01:00.006-04:00

Over last weekend, three trees fell on our church property due to high strong winds. The men from church got together and cleaned it all up Monday afternoon. The men discussed chainsaws, lumber, repairs, and hauling. Good stuff!

Sometimes, they goofed off.....even Chad (the king of goof). See his "face" at me?

Even though Luke was a little too young to get around the heavy machinery and trees, he found a spot to watch all the activity.

Day 34 - Another goodbye

2011-07-01T00:52:00.004-04:00

Seems this is the time of year when lots of people move away. Most of the moves are due to Army but there are also times when someone moves for a new job, starting grad school, etc.

Liz and Ira fell in love at our church. Literally.....many of us witnessed their first initial meeting at the piano after evening small group. He was playing and she walked over to join in the song. So funny how Coralie, Alison, and I called "it"!

We (the church congregants) watched them date, enjoyed meals with them, rejoiced in their engagement, and attended their wedding last fall. Liz just graduated with her Masters and accepted a job in Tennessee as an athletic trainer that starts this week. So, after their last church worship service with us, we took them out to eat one of their favorite meals at a favorite restaurant.

And Ira pointed out that we had chips on our shoulders (we really didn't know it at the time but took this shot to make fun of our messiness).

Many prayers to you, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis. We love you and will miss you.

More of Day 33 - Saturday

2011-07-01T00:29:00.008-04:00

After the triathlon, the local space and science center was having an anniversary celebration for FREE. While there, we created and launched rockets, practiced being weird meteorologists, & rode jet simulators.

Mitch and I really enjoy watching our children have fun in activities and with each other. It is undeniable - God is seen in every moment of their daily life. We thank God for the gift of parenthood that he's given us.

It was a hot day!

Check out Mitch's screenshot on the video over his head!

Day 33

2011-06-30T00:18:00.004-04:00

Can I just be a proud mommy for a moment?

Not because he won.

Not because he finished.

But because he enjoyed it....

Wow.....Andrew completed his first triathlon this past Saturday and he enjoyed it immensely! When he finished, he asked, "When can I do that again, Mama?". Mitch "called it" and said Andrew was gonna fall in love with the sport.

Andrew said his favorite part of the race was the bike portion. As much as he rides his bike at home and swims every day of summer, I can't say I was surprised that he did well in those legs but I was surprised that he placed first in both! His hardest portion was the running - it was the last of the three legs of the race...he was exhausted, I'm sure. I mean, who likes to run (hush, Davina!)?

We were super proud of him and we were super amazed to read the results that he won his age group! Way to go, Andrew!

Huh?

2011-06-28T01:37:00.003-04:00

I'm behind in my blog posting.

I've been a little sick

but am feeling better.

I have lots of photos to edit.

Day 32

2011-06-24T23:40:00.018-04:00

We hung out at Chrissy's house this morning to allow our children to play together and to visit with her new baby boy. Andrew, Luke, and Abigail were intrigued. They constantly pray to have another sibling. I dunno......?????........????????

After taking a quick swim in the pool this afternoon, we went to the church parking lot to give Andrew the opportunity to practice and train a little bit for his first youth triathlon that he'll participate in (tomorrow!). In his age bracket, he'll have to swim 50 meters, cycle 1.5 mile, and run .5 mile. We don't care how well he does....we just want him to enjoy it and see if it's something he would like to do more again. He might decide that he hates it and that's fine with us, too!

While Andrew did a few practice runs, Luke roller-bladed and then worked on his robot.

Abigail rode her scooter wherever she found pavement.

Then, it was time to go home...can't you tell? Look at that hair, that sweat, that stare!

Look what we got, Coralie!

2011-06-24T01:37:00.005-04:00

We watched it work at your house and it's magic persuaded us to find a way to get one for ourselves. I had a GROUPON for $15 for an Ebay purchase so we applied it to the steam mop and ended up paying only $14 for it, no shipping cost! SCORE!

My old white linoleum kitchen floor thanks you for sharing the love, Coralie! My feet do, too!

My TOP 5 books and how they've impacted me

2011-06-24T01:07:00.003-04:00

Becky tagged me in a recent post of hers and asked that I share the five most influential books I've ever read in my life (besides the Bible). All of the books mentioned below play (and still play) a major role in my theology today. By reading some of these books, my heart was changed and is still being softened today.....I need the daily reminder.

The Dangerous Duty of Delight, by John Piper - Simply put, this book - albeit it small and slim - worked mightily in my soul. It helped me to find joy and fulfillment in delighting in the Father. This book also changed my attitude toward worship and my purpose of living. I keep it on my nightstand.

Journey in God's Sovereignty, by Richard Belcher - I read this book when I was a counselor at a camp the summer I graduated from college. I walked to get my diploma in the morning and, by nightfall, I was sleeping in a cabin with other female counselors who were there for the amazing summer for which God had prepared our hearts. I was eager to study God's Word that summer but I was also struggling with my theology (not my salvation) and wanted an easy read. At the time, I didn't know I was surrounded by reformed people who eventually put this book into my hands. It's written in novel form which made it easy to follow and allowed me to imagine myself in the narrator's shoes. MY LIFE CHANGED that summer.

Valley of Vision (Banner of Truth) - The impact on my heart of this collection of Puritan prayers and devotions has been humbling. I have seen the dirt in my life, the offense of my sin, and the ugliness of my heart as I've read this book....but God has also shown me the depth of his undeserving great love, his passion for my holiness, his pursuit of my soul, and the awesome gift of his precious son.

Then, Sovereign Grace Music recorded an album by the same title and, once you put music to powerful words, I can't help but be moved to tears at the awful wonderings of my heart captured by His amazing love. This book points me to the cross.

The first prayer in the collection is the title of the album, The Valley of Vision.

The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis - (I'm not stealing this from you, Becky! HA!) - There is no other book of fiction that makes me see Jesus more clearly. When I read the words spoken by Aslan, I tingle. Then, once the book was put to film, I would get chills when Aslan would make an appearance on the screen and speak. Who knew that a lion character would point me to Christ? Not to mention the conversion of C.S. Lewis to the faith - what an act of God!

While at camp that summer, Mr. Charles read a chapter each Friday night to the staff while we sat on his living room floor looking up at him in his reading chair. I enjoyed how he used various voices to portray different characters (my favorite was Mr. Beaver). He brought the book to life!

Evidence Not Seen, by Darlene Diebler Rose - I read this book my freshman year of college. I first heard Darlene's story on the radio (Focus on the Family) and knew that I wanted more details...so I bought her book. Of all the missionaries that have served the Lord, it's Darlene's story that preached the gospel the loudest to me. She and her husband were taken as prisoners of war (WWII) when they were serving as missionaries in the jungle of New Guinea. They were separated into different camps and never saw each other again (he died while a prisoner and she died in 2004). I loved reading the stories of how God provided her bananas after so many maggot meals, the flashlight that worked for six years on the same batteries, the Bible that was never found during raids, and the Japanese official who showed compassion toward her in prison. I loan this book out all the time....wanna borrow it?

Day 31

2011-06-23T23:18:00.003-04:00

One of the local theaters is showing older movies (Toy Story, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Aladdin, etc) every Thursday for only $1. We took our refill popcorn value bucket and filled up on the buttery good stuff while watching a fun movie together. The room was dark so I didn't get a picture....but they all had a blast!

There are two young men in our church who belong to a wonderful family. These two guys pursue my boys by playing football, Frisbee, and baseball with them almost every Sunday night after small group. They called this morning to ask if Andrew could come over and hang out at their house for a little bit.....he ended up staying for 3.5 hours and came home with a HUGE smile on his face. I appreciate how they are mentoring him, even if they don't call it that.

While Andrew was away, I took Abigail and Luke to the library.

They checked out some pretty funky music to listen to on the way home. Look at Luke jammin'!

I had a Target gift card to spend with only $10 on it. Know what exciting things I bought with it?....bread, milk, and fruit roll-ups. God is good!

Day 30

2011-06-22T23:03:00.006-04:00

Mitch and I found out about Jeeah's Hope late last year and decided that it was a ministry we wanted to support. Our friends who founded JH have already been to our church to speak about the history and mission of why they want to assist and support adoptive and foster care families in our area. Today, Mitch and I went to lunch with a state employee and three other couples who hope to be working with DFACS in relieving and assisting with foster children, families, and orphans. It is exciting to see how God is working. I will blog along the way as we interact with the state and see the fatherless be joined with their families.