tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26306583849452473442024-02-20T18:35:40.020-06:00Trusting His Promise"From the fullness of His grace, we have all received one blessing after another." ~ John 1:16Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.comBlogger885125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-85259819468371295532014-06-28T20:35:00.001-05:002014-06-28T20:35:52.447-05:00Sigh...I'm heading home tomorrow after a week on the East Coast. I had great plans for my time away. I was going to blog every day, spend much time with my Heavenly Father, catch up on long neglected emails to dear friends, catch up on sleep, and come home completely refreshed and rejuvenated. If I was going to be graded on my success, I would say that I bombed!<div>I started a blog post a few days ago, but never got it completed. I did spend time with God, although not as much as I anticipated. Finished an amazing book called "In the Grip of Grace" by Max Lucado (more on that topic another day), got one email sent, went to bed way too late, and woke up way too early (most days between 5-6am). I'm going home as tired as when I left.</div><div>But, I did have a good time. I attended a work conference which was very educational. Much info to use in my daily practice. The location was beautiful and the weather was perfect (only one day with a bit of rain). I got to see Martha's Vineyard, Plymouth Rock, Hyannis. My responsibilities were limited to just me (thanks to my wonderful hubby who held down the fort at home). </div><div>And yet, I didn't quite find that peace I was looking for. I didn't see everything I wanted to. Emails and phone calls didn't get made. I didn't feel ready for this time to end because I had "so much" left do so. Silly, isn't it? This evening, I felt God speaking to me so gently. He reminded me that life is a journey. It isn't necessary to check everything off on my "to-do" list. The world is not going to end because I didn't see all the tourist attractions here in Massachusets. </div><div>What matters is slowing down a bit (something I've never been good at) so that I can hear His voice and feel His presence. Stopping to give thanks for the innumerable blessings in my life. Praying for those who have specifically asked for it, as well as those that He brings to mind. Seeing the world through His eyes reaching out to make a difference in someone's life. Recognizing that I can't and never will be able to do it all and accepting that that is ok. And remembering that my dependence on my Savior trumps anything else. So thankful for His grace and mercy!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-61146339761928128122014-06-24T21:31:00.001-05:002014-06-24T21:32:10.136-05:00Three years agoHow time passes! Three years ago today, we were in Sevastopol - meeting Matthew for the "first" time as our son. It had been six months since we had seen him and <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I remember thinking how tiny he was. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViC4eUVSQT-Y_7_b7kyVWMA0k_dwU9GxWGXgEOc5sxledq4K9fqL9zUU_b9ke3WD1qp1ZBigg3rZ-1rx6o1y4rxB3iJEUfCMZMXB9I_jD7QfH9ydKRdhVivQsgW1fCltKPFFZYa9fB0Y/s640/blogger-image-2083445298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViC4eUVSQT-Y_7_b7kyVWMA0k_dwU9GxWGXgEOc5sxledq4K9fqL9zUU_b9ke3WD1qp1ZBigg3rZ-1rx6o1y4rxB3iJEUfCMZMXB9I_jD7QfH9ydKRdhVivQsgW1fCltKPFFZYa9fB0Y/s640/blogger-image-2083445298.jpg"></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The same and yet, so different!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMrfGzTCk27ukt3d_F38PUWV8gIhrbMSUjX2VA8G8OQUD4s-dvtP1i3w0sWm5gh6rBdxyasXDXmNngNrHvbyTMqlkF7lXiUo2FbfBcmM9nYdITwb-Yv7uaKWaHkSVty3KoXLnGod5TUwY/s640/blogger-image-1181985284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMrfGzTCk27ukt3d_F38PUWV8gIhrbMSUjX2VA8G8OQUD4s-dvtP1i3w0sWm5gh6rBdxyasXDXmNngNrHvbyTMqlkF7lXiUo2FbfBcmM9nYdITwb-Yv7uaKWaHkSVty3KoXLnGod5TUwY/s640/blogger-image-1181985284.jpg"></a></div></div></span>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-47782936049125916092014-06-03T21:01:00.001-05:002014-06-03T21:02:14.292-05:00Happy Birthday Matthew!We love you so much!<div><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhHidc80LeUnKU-EZvgqfDOqDSKkFXeR9K7T9U_5ngSoFsR-Sy3vxnLEdKBhyphenhyphenRY5KkMWZYBCCzJv0aqnDraoXO65XVAauc2aI2LetK4RrDrlyrGCjQR2tvUDfWjWQjkgurnXsIIm2Bow/s640/blogger-image-1577672224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhHidc80LeUnKU-EZvgqfDOqDSKkFXeR9K7T9U_5ngSoFsR-Sy3vxnLEdKBhyphenhyphenRY5KkMWZYBCCzJv0aqnDraoXO65XVAauc2aI2LetK4RrDrlyrGCjQR2tvUDfWjWQjkgurnXsIIm2Bow/s640/blogger-image-1577672224.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13VHKA3wVtUHf_YPymiv2p-7Vs444IO8_MoQdGBhtKawCX1MefnALCAfvlT9pFjPFP2DgonJ0_Qksl38_DgVnDvF8BiQ1PSV5rarwAulAOeSKJEzqeoPEtH19guUmJ35TOvznGbKOEUc/s640/blogger-image--963404220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13VHKA3wVtUHf_YPymiv2p-7Vs444IO8_MoQdGBhtKawCX1MefnALCAfvlT9pFjPFP2DgonJ0_Qksl38_DgVnDvF8BiQ1PSV5rarwAulAOeSKJEzqeoPEtH19guUmJ35TOvznGbKOEUc/s640/blogger-image--963404220.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-44587206826636933422014-05-01T21:49:00.001-05:002014-05-01T21:49:38.744-05:00Blessings!Thankful Thursday is here and I want to take a moment to just reflect on a few of the many blessings in my life.<div><br></div><div>- Recently, I had the privilege of visiting with a dying patient. This person asked me what to expect over the next few weeks. I was honest about the physical changes that would probably take place and explained that I would do everything possible to maintain their quality of life while directing interventions that would alleviate their symptoms. The individual was so appreciative of this information that I was humbled by their response. And then, they said something that just sticks with me. I won't share their words exactly, but the message was that they had no fear of death because they were confident in where they were going. The only sadness was associated with how much they had loved the life they lived. What a precious message and something to strive for! I left that visit knowing that something very profound had occurred and that I had just experienced a touch of heaven. I don't know how to explain it well, but I'm so thankful for the ability to make a difference in the lives of my patients and for the difference they make in my life.</div><div><br></div><div>- Last weekend, I was having a really hard time - not dealing well with kiddos who were... Shall I say, challenging? By mid-afternoon on Sunday, I was at the breaking point. I had read a blog post that put into words so much of what we deal with, things that are rarely seen by anyone other than Mark and I. To know that there are others out there who "get it" is such a relief. Isolation is something we struggle with and some day are hard. Anyway, I was feeling pretty emotional. I opened up my email to find a note of encouragement from a church friend that was beautiful. God knew how much I needed to hear those words and He must whispered them in Lu's ear because she knew just what to say.</div><div><br></div><div>- This week, something happened that I never would have anticipated (and not in a good way). One of those things that just make me go, "why God? What could possibly be the purpose in this? And even if there is a purpose, why did it have to involve someone I love?" Although I don't have that answer, I am thankful that God promises He is with me even when I don't understand. </div><div><br></div><div>- This sweet thing that is wrapping herself around my finger. I love my Miss Lucy!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju665NsLfMtt62dQMj9yXzGZAZJeb39LKqHKxIZkrKr1W9kxTCJGwDqoSfpVtOxAIynLuPJJzvWc8nYRno2BoQmKdeCZ6AZZCUZRyxaZAWQ5O0u7qrSiyBP0CzWWQI89FJ5Gzy1Tl33V0/s640/blogger-image-1300740250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju665NsLfMtt62dQMj9yXzGZAZJeb39LKqHKxIZkrKr1W9kxTCJGwDqoSfpVtOxAIynLuPJJzvWc8nYRno2BoQmKdeCZ6AZZCUZRyxaZAWQ5O0u7qrSiyBP0CzWWQI89FJ5Gzy1Tl33V0/s640/blogger-image-1300740250.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-14919789357091846182014-04-17T21:25:00.000-05:002014-04-17T21:25:03.669-05:00Choosing an attitude of gratitudeAnother week has passed and I haven't been here to update like I want to. I know... I keep saying that I am going to get back on track. The past two months have felt so chaotic. It started even before Maia was in the hospital in February. Up until about a week ago, there hasn't been a day in which at least two of us weren't sick. Mostly respiratory stuff, the kids kept reinfecting themselves and us. Matthew was the only one who didn't end up on antibiotics. Maia and I both get treated for sinus infections. Mark had strep. Needless to say, I am VERY thankful that no one else got it. <br />
It seems like my days off and the weekends have been filled with one thing or another - or we have felt so rotten that we didn't do anything. Between Maia being sick and me being sick, I missed church for three weeks. Last week, we finally went as a family again. What a wonderful thing! It felt so good to be in God's house. Most of the time, the kids are distracting enough that I don't get to hear much of the lesson or sermon. But, just being among our church family and feeling His presence brought joy to my heart!<br />
Work has been absolutely crazy for about three weeks now. As each week has drawn to an end, I think "whew... next week has got to be better." Famous last words. Next week? Maybe or maybe not. In spite of some really challenging situations, I am so blessed to have this job that I love. Are there difficult moments when I wish that maybe I had chosen a different profession? Well, there are moments that I do wish for calm. But, I can not imagine going any place different when I leave the house in the morning. God gave me such a gift allowing me to go back to school and become a nurse practitioner, then work with the elderly.<br />
And if things weren't insane enough, we decided to get a puppy. Not an adult well trained, well behaved dog. Nope, not us! Lucy is now 9 weeks old. And after a week of calm transition, she has decided to let her personality show. Oh, my! We're working on house training, behaviors, crate training - all that fun stuff. Every time, I have had moments of doubt, God has reassured me that she did not join our family by accident. And she IS adorable - lol!<br />
Each night at bedtime, I read the kids a book or two. Then, we have our devotion story and say prayer. I've been trying to help Matthew see that there is always something to be thankful for. He hasn't learned that yet, most days, he can not come up with even one good thing that has happened. But it's also been a good reminder for me. In the midst of the mundane, the chaos, the stress, the sadness, the every day life, I remember that I choose my attitude. I can grumble, whine, gripe... and often, I do. But I can also make better choices. I can stop to see His hand at work in our lives. I can thank Him for His presence in every situation - even the challenging ones. And I can trust that He will guide me and sustain me when I feel like I don't have it in me to go one more step. I am so thankful for a God who is full of mercy and grace, for a Savior who made the ultimate sacrifice for me, and for the promise of the resurrection that we will celebrate on Easter.Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-4531127912665871122014-04-07T21:39:00.001-05:002014-04-07T21:39:39.170-05:00We have a new addition!Meet the new cutie in our house!<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDC5mqsK0zmO1DbjHqB0ZOcqSoaMUIgbP188e094eOnrQrjbADyZvwWBtEuqulAKcZyTssSdR155q_IAFyEmtg5XcVDQWuYJbcT8YY7HmBmjaU5SLBqe0829twTlu6SJRMkLh9NdXBG4Y/s640/blogger-image-448117279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDC5mqsK0zmO1DbjHqB0ZOcqSoaMUIgbP188e094eOnrQrjbADyZvwWBtEuqulAKcZyTssSdR155q_IAFyEmtg5XcVDQWuYJbcT8YY7HmBmjaU5SLBqe0829twTlu6SJRMkLh9NdXBG4Y/s640/blogger-image-448117279.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-45966067659927966882014-03-27T20:44:00.001-05:002014-03-27T20:44:43.964-05:00Thankful!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>I had a vague feeling today that there was something of significance that had happened right about this time of year. And so I went back reading old blog posts. Sure enough...<div>Three years ago this week, my wonderful hubby got tired of listening to my tears at night and asked me to tell him what I thought about Matthew. I remember lying in bed, afraid to admit what God had been whispering to me. Mark didn't want Matthew to be transferred to an institution, but didn't feel like we were in any position to adopt again. I understood and respected that. So, I took a deep breath and hesitantly said, "I feel like he is our son." Mark told me that because I had trusted him in knowing that Maia was our daughter, he trusted me in knowing that Matthew was our son. And so our race to get him home began.</div><div>God was faithful throughout that journey and blessed us beyond measure. Yes, he has stretched us and made us move outside our comfort zone. The past three years have been some of the most difficult of my life. Moments of great joy, others of great sadness and frustration. </div><div>As I looked back at your comments in response to my announcement, one really stood out. Veronica, you mentioned that now we would have no "what ifs?" We didn't have to wonder and worry about what had happened to Matthew. He would join our family as a much wanted son!</div><div>And for that, I am thankful! Thankful for the God who heard my cries, my prayers, my begging on behalf of a sweet boy whose face was etched in my heart. Thankful that He has been with us each step of this journey. Thankful for my son and the road to him which officially began three years ago this week.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF2te2PEwoQaJb-cdqJv-YLiSaqOl1NP2RCMiIHtsHVsWPkmKNce7YPV49jljHz69eu5NCyrrFO_lPoOPDBRhhcoKfcVYdrHqE9jpWRHjVvfgwNm4v-e9apJ9dER1XBqeCKWRSA2A8Tbs/s640/blogger-image--235974817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF2te2PEwoQaJb-cdqJv-YLiSaqOl1NP2RCMiIHtsHVsWPkmKNce7YPV49jljHz69eu5NCyrrFO_lPoOPDBRhhcoKfcVYdrHqE9jpWRHjVvfgwNm4v-e9apJ9dER1XBqeCKWRSA2A8Tbs/s640/blogger-image--235974817.jpg"></a> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDDe8gzbH0jgEpe79kIjJIGrkYfsMki0tQaCKx4vvbSCv967F5WTx0VO_cjB47c7OH0pI_QXZusxkmUK5RVsrs36p1FJ14S-9PR_iEsxn7027MHQZkBHhMA5fKOMVHJHOcLS5Wfd5vLq8/s640/blogger-image-924535947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDDe8gzbH0jgEpe79kIjJIGrkYfsMki0tQaCKx4vvbSCv967F5WTx0VO_cjB47c7OH0pI_QXZusxkmUK5RVsrs36p1FJ14S-9PR_iEsxn7027MHQZkBHhMA5fKOMVHJHOcLS5Wfd5vLq8/s640/blogger-image-924535947.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6jNHP7KOYrd6g_1IxjMn8Lm7xai4sbdbg6LU9RhoRdKMs3VzOLqtoMJZo2jGBF6UHawu3t_KmvhiuIJCEBIML426KYUS0mMhexOlaWPhAJDlaYRd4_S4KjOEAvDVwDWqW72f-DlX8pqw/s640/blogger-image-2118181779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6jNHP7KOYrd6g_1IxjMn8Lm7xai4sbdbg6LU9RhoRdKMs3VzOLqtoMJZo2jGBF6UHawu3t_KmvhiuIJCEBIML426KYUS0mMhexOlaWPhAJDlaYRd4_S4KjOEAvDVwDWqW72f-DlX8pqw/s640/blogger-image-2118181779.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><br></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-9489081884462373582014-03-20T21:37:00.001-05:002014-03-20T21:43:45.776-05:00Putting the pieces of my "puzzle" together with God - a Thankful
Thursday postHave you ever tried to put a puzzle together without having any idea what it is supposed to look like when it is completed? It has occurred to me that when we attempt to get through life and make decisions independent of God, that's exactly what we are doing. <div>Often, we convince ourselves that we know exactly how our lives "should" look. Perhaps the edges of the puzzle are our past experiences - the ones that have shaped us into the people that we are today. Those pieces are easier to put together because we can start with the corners and work our way out to complete a basic frame for our puzzle. </div><div>We think we might have a sense of what the final picture is going to look like. So, we begin to search for pieces that might fit together. And some of them do. Sometimes, we even get enough pieces to match so that we can visualize parts of the puzzle. So it is as we grow and mature. Those moments come when you can look back and say, "Ok God, now I understand why such and such happened. I can see why you led me down this path."</div><div>But, as the puzzle continues to come together, it becomes apparent that there are pieces missing. And we begin searching for them. Now remember, we don't even know what our final picture looks like! Can you imagine how impossible that would be? Over the course of our lives, we find more and more pieces to add to the puzzle. Some have fit easily together. Other, we have pushed and prodded to fit into place. After all, we "know" how it's supposed to look. And as those pieces go together, we realize that perhaps the picture is going to turn put differently than we had imagined. But, we still can't visualize the end result. And that's where God comes in.</div><div><div>Our Heavenly Father is the Master Builder. He is able to see how each piece of my puzzle fits together. Not only that, God is simultaneously putting together not only my puzzle, but every other person's puzzle as well. And the puzzles that he has created fit perfectly and intricately together. They create a beautiful masterpiece that is beyond anything we can imagine, one that we will only be able to full view when we cross that bridge into heaven. </div><div>In the meantime, our Loving Creator reminds me that I don't need to see the whole picture. It isn't my job to try to put the puzzle together on my own. He asks that I trust Him to place the pieces of my puzzle in my hand. God gently guides those pieces to the right position when I allow Him to do so. By relying on Him to direct my life, I hold the answers to successfully completing my puzzle. And on this Thankful Thursday, I am eternally grateful that His way is perfect and that my life is in His hands.</div></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnsjquRbei7TSqXU7n_hjU_TF_xH1O8qz7IzmLJR09KH1bhRcAFI9wRoWnvNfPrquh_v9ZyUatSWCJkYn9Zgbk2pJA8Uz6KzCh16O-oUkymtt7WKa2jrijSOdgIXBOIeFxNRgkeyXpac/s640/blogger-image-32966720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnsjquRbei7TSqXU7n_hjU_TF_xH1O8qz7IzmLJR09KH1bhRcAFI9wRoWnvNfPrquh_v9ZyUatSWCJkYn9Zgbk2pJA8Uz6KzCh16O-oUkymtt7WKa2jrijSOdgIXBOIeFxNRgkeyXpac/s640/blogger-image-32966720.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-77415917297394906082014-03-06T21:37:00.001-06:002014-03-06T21:38:32.390-06:00Thankful!Well, another Thursday is almost gone. But, I am quite earnest in my desire to get back to blogging again. I couldn't let the day end without sharing a few things I am thankful for today.<div><br></div><div>- God is truly good! My step-son James posted a quote on his FB page yesterday that went something like this, "Sometimes, the worst times in our lives are what bring us to the best times in our lives." What a wonderful for those moments when you wonder how you can keep going. I've posted before about how God has created beauty from ashes in my life. He's got a LOT of work left to do in me, no doubt. But, His plans are to bless us in ways beyond anything we could imagine.</div><div><br></div><div>- Our church has a secret prayer sister program. We commit to praying for our "sister" and can do little things to encourage them throughout the year. I received a sweet card from my prayer sister today that said, "The moments of your day and the needs of your heart are in His hands." Such a comforting reminder of God's presence even in those mundane moments. And what reassurance to realize that He cradles my needs, my wants, my longings, my sorrows, everything about me gently in the palm of His hand.</div><div><br></div><div>- This winter has been relentless. It seems like there has been no reprieve, either frigid or snowing. I'm thankful that the days are getting longer and there is an end in sight (at least, I hope so). Looking forward to spring!</div><div><br></div><div>- </div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-71931588979836769192014-03-02T20:58:00.001-06:002014-03-02T20:58:42.593-06:00An awww moment!This afternoon, Matthew asked me to read him the book, "I love you forever." I can never make it through that without getting teary. If you're not familiar with the book, it's about a mom who sings to her son over the years about loving him forever, liking him always, and that he will always be her baby. At the end, the mom is old and sick. She calls her son and tells him to come visit. When he arrives, she tries singing the song, but can't finish it because she is old and sick. The son picks up his mom, rocks her, and sings the song back to her, telling her that she will always be his mommy. He then goes home and sings the song to his new baby daughter.<div>Matthews told me that when I get old, I need to call him. He will come to my house, pick me up, rock me, and sing the song. He also told me that he will not live across town (like the son in the story), he will live right next door. Oh, sweet boy! This mom was in tears!</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHcTSsXTN3pQcRMRZ6OGzJIGuq8hRkzOYdALIuwyel3tJPVPUypb1uKgWRCxuteJaly7da_Hz831EFGE_-MJnFKhz8LRkqoLyTxSRDBVfkVpxMFxE7aU93ah8aB8p7uUEfUiih6xNiL2s/s640/blogger-image-1483243656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHcTSsXTN3pQcRMRZ6OGzJIGuq8hRkzOYdALIuwyel3tJPVPUypb1uKgWRCxuteJaly7da_Hz831EFGE_-MJnFKhz8LRkqoLyTxSRDBVfkVpxMFxE7aU93ah8aB8p7uUEfUiih6xNiL2s/s640/blogger-image-1483243656.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-91652970163308931202014-02-27T19:39:00.001-06:002014-02-27T19:39:54.118-06:00Thankful ThursdayI've been awful about keeping the blog updated and I admit... I've considered shutting it down now that our family is complete and we are just living life. But, I also really enjoy writing and sharing both what's happening in our lives as well as my thoughts. I feel like perhaps God isn't finished with our blog yet. So, I am hoping to get back in the groove of things soon here and maybe, there are still a few people out there who are interested. If not, it's ok... I will keep writing for myself.<br />
<br />
For tonight, it will be short. I'm feeling yucky. Mark has been under the weather for almost a week. Matthew's emerging from a cold. And hopefully, we are all on the mend.<br />
<br />
First, let me say that God is good. I am so thankful for your prayers last week as Maia was hospitalized. We were so concerned that another shunt infection was present. The spinal fluid cultures remained negative for any growth of bacteria and doctors narrowed it down (by process of elimination) to a urinary tract infection. She came home with antibiotics which finished today and I think is finally feeling better. Maia remained a trooper throughout the ordeal, in spite of a nasty reaction to one of the antibiotics.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhnFVucLg0aiAOGTuxJdaGkdX75O-qYjx6FCkqO4ypJ3iGS1B1VsMcvdx3pdi9ymPd1YxNQhq0AbdSRs3NLS9a_W5oPeM_aLYGXsFLm5k9A8ZCbF37dWHYN6o2Uyr16fCrabpFywQ1_M/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhnFVucLg0aiAOGTuxJdaGkdX75O-qYjx6FCkqO4ypJ3iGS1B1VsMcvdx3pdi9ymPd1YxNQhq0AbdSRs3NLS9a_W5oPeM_aLYGXsFLm5k9A8ZCbF37dWHYN6o2Uyr16fCrabpFywQ1_M/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" height="149" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Matthew is enjoying swimming lessons this evening. He's really doing well. We had quarter end school conferences in late January. His teachers tell us that he is making great progress, meeting his IEP goals. He remains behind his peers, but has come so far. The other night, he counted to 100 for me and loves the counting in Spanish that he learns at Kindergarten Plus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFmWAWjvx4PHFbF3A3uFQ_5bd8_WAkxlEyLRKsARabfx0n08oLXfGfn_lnXeXy0xV2HnlvtNj6Pk_R3nGQ2oDNxJopCAgvkAI7m3ljZHhbzBdSgyNjBvPu648Bx7KgAE_QuFI-N1R_GVo/s1600/photo+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFmWAWjvx4PHFbF3A3uFQ_5bd8_WAkxlEyLRKsARabfx0n08oLXfGfn_lnXeXy0xV2HnlvtNj6Pk_R3nGQ2oDNxJopCAgvkAI7m3ljZHhbzBdSgyNjBvPu648Bx7KgAE_QuFI-N1R_GVo/s1600/photo+%25281%2529.JPG" height="200" width="149" /></a></div>
<br />
I'll update more about the kids and what's happening in our world soon. In the meantime, please keep the people of Ukraine in your prayers. My heart aches for the chaos over there.Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-69709947495856742012014-02-18T20:30:00.001-06:002014-02-18T20:45:02.251-06:00Thanks and Maia updateThanks to all who are praying for Miss Maia. She was admitted to the hospital last night. Praise God there has been no evidence of a shunt infection. She was started on three different antibiotics to cover just about everything. Had a reaction to one of them today which was absolutely miserable for her. There has been no clear picture of what is causing the infection. Speculation about a possible urinary tract infection and this seems to be what they are leaning towards. I admit, I am a bit skeptical for various reasons, but it may be a case where they have ruled out everything else and don't have anything else to blame.<div>The white blood count is improved, although still much higher than normal. And we can tell that Maia is not back to baseline because she is not interested in food - at all! Completely out of character for her. We've seen a few people who remember Maia from her last hospitalization and they are excited to see her. </div><div>God answers prayers and He has sent the right people to draw blood and place IVs for our sweetie. Her veins are some of the worst that people have seen so it is miserable for Maia and the lab people both. </div><div>I'm hoping that she will be able to come home tomorrow. Maia is getting a bit stir crazy and I would like all of us under the same roof at night. I spent last night at the hospital so Mark is there tonight. Matthew and I are having a bit of quality time which is precious as well. </div><div>I'll update tomorrow after I know more, but please keep the prayers coming. We know they are effective!</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumB-1Rbaclgp8JnhifErbFR7ijiVwaf3bj64vkx8gATqEvNSsYxlctg66tvuGoj6h2FV5wcIqYfYSKuTdbhOF1LbOOjH-695DwdhX8rtFupqniWHPYSYJsKDS2Fb5umh_-DdB5Hk4Xok/s640/blogger-image--1739323012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumB-1Rbaclgp8JnhifErbFR7ijiVwaf3bj64vkx8gATqEvNSsYxlctg66tvuGoj6h2FV5wcIqYfYSKuTdbhOF1LbOOjH-695DwdhX8rtFupqniWHPYSYJsKDS2Fb5umh_-DdB5Hk4Xok/s640/blogger-image--1739323012.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-16049707799295330682014-02-17T19:10:00.001-06:002014-02-17T19:10:45.619-06:00Prayers pleaseI know... I have been awful about keeping the blog up, but here I am. Asking for prayers for our sweet Maia. We are in the emergency room waiting to hear the plan. White blood count is high and they are testing for a shunt infection. I'll post when I know more.Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-12019609350953720672013-12-29T10:29:00.003-06:002013-12-29T10:29:48.405-06:00End of the year.I hope all of you had a great 2013. We had a very good year, stressful at times but the kids have come a long way and are doing well. Melanie and myself are doing well too,(but it would be better if we didn't have these sinus colds).<br />
I hope all of you have a great 2014 and remember to right that on your checks:)<br />
<br />
MarkMark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-29165291273010330232013-12-24T21:23:00.001-06:002013-12-24T21:23:13.477-06:00Christmas ThoughtsSharing our annual Christmas letter with you below. I pray that you enjoy the holidays with those you love and that you spend time remembering the babe who was born thousands of years ago in a manger in Bethlehem. "O come, let us adore Him!"<br />
<br />
<em><span style="color: #38761d;"> As the holidays approached this year, I mentally began to write my Christmas letter. You know the one… similar to what you get from many people. Travel news, bragging about the kids, all the exciting things happening in life, etc. But as I contemplated what to share, the content of my letter began to change. So for those of you looking for a newsy, what’s happening in our world kind of update, you may want to stop now. If I’ve piqued your curiosity, read on. This really just comes from my heart as I read related posts on Facebook, had conversations with friends about the topic, and listened to an amazing speaker earlier this fall.<br /><br /> How often do we think about the image we portray in our public lives? Reading social networking posts, blogs - even just listening to other’s stories can set up such unrealistic expectations for our own lives. We tend to only hear the positive news, the great accomplishments, how wonderful everything is and we begin to compare. We compare our mundane, oh-so-imperfect realities with the brief glimpses into others’ “perfect” lives and come up feeling like we are missing out on something. That “if only xyz” would happen, life would be better or we would be happier. But, the truth of that matter is that no one’s life is perfect. Those imperfections just may not be as visible to us. There is no winning the comparison game. The truth is that there will always be someone who has more, does more, gives more…<br /><br />So this Christmas, instead of the letter with all the good news, I’m choosing to be real about our life. The year has been filled with ups and downs – laughter and tears. There have been blessings beyond measure. Mark and the kids were able to travel with me as I attended work related conferences. We moved to the country and have room for the kids to run. With the larger space, we were able to fill our home with friends and family at Thanksgiving. But, there have been challenges as well. We’ve grieved the fact that Maia has not regained all she lost with last year’s illness, including her speech. Matthew continues to heal from the hurts of his life before joining our family. Mark and I struggle to balance the demands of work/home, raising kids with special needs, and our relationship. The house is usually a mess, the “to-do” list never finished. Some days, the best scenario is to muddle through, climb into bed at night and pray for strength to start again the next morning<br /><br />More and more, I am reminded that life isn’t about how many fabulous vacations we’ve taken or our kids’ amazing accomplishments. It isn’t about the showcase home or the expensive gift from our spouse. There is always going to be someone who is able to boast something better, someone whose life seems “more perfect”.<br /><br /> God doesn’t ask us to be flawless. The worldly treasures we value so highly are of no importance to Him. He sent His son to be born in a stable and laid in a manger – it doesn’t get much more imperfect and humble than that. But, that is just part of what makes Him so real and accessible to us. Christ’s gifts are love and grace, redemption, and the promise of eternity to those who believe. They are not dependent on what we possess or accomplish in life. With God, we never have to worry about how we compare or measure up. <br /><br />My challenge to you is this. Make a choice to be real, let your guard down a bit; quit trying to keep up that image of having it all together. Extend grace to others. Allow them to be imperfect. Perhaps in doing so, we can create a world where there is more peace, kindness, and compassion. <br /><br />And my holiday prayer is that you find strength when your heart is weary, peace when you feel unsettled, a sense of contentment with where your life is right now, security in knowing that God loves you with a perfect love, and joy in celebrating the birth of the Christ Child.<br /><br /> Blessings to you and yours this Christmas and throughout 2014! </span></em><div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGXwqvH2Ag3F9Ym-dMUXXtcaJFp9_upTxoyo5l86so9bLCZa7RUzHYTx9CZ3ntmJGF5ICAs-OXY1OnXMamIFolWVY3JEPartM56QEBRytpnupDmtOxYVRecd1RD89cvy4428zsjrHD8w/s1600/IMGP1355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGXwqvH2Ag3F9Ym-dMUXXtcaJFp9_upTxoyo5l86so9bLCZa7RUzHYTx9CZ3ntmJGF5ICAs-OXY1OnXMamIFolWVY3JEPartM56QEBRytpnupDmtOxYVRecd1RD89cvy4428zsjrHD8w/s200/IMGP1355.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-72060184775778586162013-12-13T20:54:00.001-06:002013-12-13T20:54:28.666-06:00A day to celebrate!Three years ago today, we became parents of this sweet Ukranian princess! What a blessing she is and how much she has grown! <div>Happy adoption day, Maia - we love you!</div><div><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm_rayWERBzU_ivGxz-vsTVT-6nXzfYwzuL7V7TeAHxVoImGQvXnRg-WWk6t3cn-Q5wR-SLqaawEvYT1G1MiaAybL2W462czGzskoM-AGARdDExSqdLHUBV9ZvS2Y_CIkJxXjKNXVlxuQ/s640/blogger-image--1545932940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm_rayWERBzU_ivGxz-vsTVT-6nXzfYwzuL7V7TeAHxVoImGQvXnRg-WWk6t3cn-Q5wR-SLqaawEvYT1G1MiaAybL2W462czGzskoM-AGARdDExSqdLHUBV9ZvS2Y_CIkJxXjKNXVlxuQ/s640/blogger-image--1545932940.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0mhNESE3pUvQQq77zt-8QxoVdBZ77_hF8Z8_LZiqkQVILrWPUdA7uawnRogUiK_TYDWI6HN5CYoqgW-F7Xl_vI3RZk1B_JSwyIdeqwF9Cu2QwEDqaau_r-ss3Qtf7GST3kAx7pOFdIUw/s640/blogger-image-895080071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0mhNESE3pUvQQq77zt-8QxoVdBZ77_hF8Z8_LZiqkQVILrWPUdA7uawnRogUiK_TYDWI6HN5CYoqgW-F7Xl_vI3RZk1B_JSwyIdeqwF9Cu2QwEDqaau_r-ss3Qtf7GST3kAx7pOFdIUw/s640/blogger-image-895080071.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxXKpcBh0aY_o_RU8BMHfJfdwyR3GTHOAXpTeGyabgseNds2CSOvlsDP06I3sgCmwq3qZ2xdDVhmYj5v7LHKsASUXlO6iC701vZNqIEeda5AL6wAegwfxeK48ftK4819gypj71az1Qz0/s640/blogger-image-1676964048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxXKpcBh0aY_o_RU8BMHfJfdwyR3GTHOAXpTeGyabgseNds2CSOvlsDP06I3sgCmwq3qZ2xdDVhmYj5v7LHKsASUXlO6iC701vZNqIEeda5AL6wAegwfxeK48ftK4819gypj71az1Qz0/s640/blogger-image-1676964048.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-81631927939861655552013-11-28T20:54:00.001-06:002013-11-28T20:54:19.997-06:00Happy Thanksgiving!Praying that your holiday was filled with love, laughter, and many blessings! Our home was filled with loved ones and what a wonderful gift it was to have this time together. So much to be thankful for each and every day, sometimes I have to remind myself of that. But, it is true. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqAWAxRa8gC1T3THRogl8UDLEdv7LLBrNWiJHuws9_UkFi0Kc8ckomrf0cdCOCgEMPjzsbbBYyzG4p3zQKdwOq-NNxMbHdHbjhhfodB9XkVMEQVCG0TQ1c38VnewW4Lhpsfs0t9qncFM/s1600/Frog+Matthew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqAWAxRa8gC1T3THRogl8UDLEdv7LLBrNWiJHuws9_UkFi0Kc8ckomrf0cdCOCgEMPjzsbbBYyzG4p3zQKdwOq-NNxMbHdHbjhhfodB9XkVMEQVCG0TQ1c38VnewW4Lhpsfs0t9qncFM/s200/Frog+Matthew.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70PLsJd94wQqXMmPnpd2DDlMpsa_22dH2kZiHIoTy2w-O9H-jzmLLVKeH5hswB8eVSSfkfYWh2cpppuYVjv4zhDY2XQaLOaNEjNoZJhaDv37HQYgw_2aDfLHYgO7Cd3BIm0rtm16B9hY/s1600/kids+at+PM+chapel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70PLsJd94wQqXMmPnpd2DDlMpsa_22dH2kZiHIoTy2w-O9H-jzmLLVKeH5hswB8eVSSfkfYWh2cpppuYVjv4zhDY2XQaLOaNEjNoZJhaDv37HQYgw_2aDfLHYgO7Cd3BIm0rtm16B9hY/s200/kids+at+PM+chapel.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqN3L0-BXM2PaTqy3YJ58VYmYy4TZiWMrv_MNt4q2R5ZXbIiwBoRbg9Ne8dlmlfwGuoNa94_SX2ghObfFkp3qX_LfUeU6EaSdWeKmteuaR1jbT6nM4RobzzwoNdojzUN65Yp9UTEK9s7o/s1600/maia+and+daddy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqN3L0-BXM2PaTqy3YJ58VYmYy4TZiWMrv_MNt4q2R5ZXbIiwBoRbg9Ne8dlmlfwGuoNa94_SX2ghObfFkp3qX_LfUeU6EaSdWeKmteuaR1jbT6nM4RobzzwoNdojzUN65Yp9UTEK9s7o/s200/maia+and+daddy.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UFSS-TLfi6Un59tS7-J8VFXeuHlWB2aCzCv-ZZjEAymnqIlPTljRpAMzWTrycmgYzqBhQkdQsjPJElyxCXdHqBdNVg1oEStjveFal8RnoESAJ4qX7zOBz4Ee-P_6VXAEkrBfGdj8eqg/s1600/mark+and+kids.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UFSS-TLfi6Un59tS7-J8VFXeuHlWB2aCzCv-ZZjEAymnqIlPTljRpAMzWTrycmgYzqBhQkdQsjPJElyxCXdHqBdNVg1oEStjveFal8RnoESAJ4qX7zOBz4Ee-P_6VXAEkrBfGdj8eqg/s200/mark+and+kids.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9aNwg2l9f0oCr9Tot3_J1228CmgWpo34ZGUxIR0KrsuUPuDs7INgPDKUI1SI-6HD6seX78s4Ci760URCFK32UnC0meRPnRDHvqMCrfT90uwGHgAKSMRDFE1s88mNT2GYGM6x628_E_wY/s1600/view+from+hotel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9aNwg2l9f0oCr9Tot3_J1228CmgWpo34ZGUxIR0KrsuUPuDs7INgPDKUI1SI-6HD6seX78s4Ci760URCFK32UnC0meRPnRDHvqMCrfT90uwGHgAKSMRDFE1s88mNT2GYGM6x628_E_wY/s200/view+from+hotel.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-63839235123990197492013-11-18T20:16:00.000-06:002013-11-18T20:16:40.157-06:00OopsWe took a small trip to Branson, Mo. We had a good time, Melanie had a conference there. When we drove in the driveway Melanie asked me if I had keys to the house. My car keys where in the house (We took Melanies car). So my answer was no. She left her keys in the house too. So I had to break intro the house. <br />
Pictures coming soon.<br />
MarkMark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-11791860985360038742013-11-04T22:28:00.001-06:002013-11-04T22:28:27.354-06:00Three years ago todayWe received the call that we had been eagerly waiting for... The one telling us that we had an appointment in Kyiv on November 29. Gosh, the emotions of those days are so easy to recall. Ukraine has been heavy on my heart lately. I love going back and reading our posts, remembering our journey.<div><br></div><div>On a side note, Maia had a busy day of appointments. Nothing urgent... I will try to update soon.</div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-27790907546515401992013-10-31T21:09:00.001-05:002013-10-31T21:09:51.899-05:00Happy Halloween!Today, I am thankful for those two kiddos of mine! They had fun trick or treating. I forgot to take pictures, but we had a Halloween themed dinner with mummy dogs, green eyeballs, Frankenstein's fingers, and mud/dirt/worm dessert. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIjWdWAWJw6Y1aB87SULTQzSzGfP1VA0Sx_ekf6IPwM8HWuUJn3o1lVa93WNZMdwc4boHcRcjV3TqLAlC59H2_3QG-5nhQ2DGmNkksNiFcU1uywUKo1kSulYpFB9192gcSfWPM3KbCUI/s640/blogger-image--1257027897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIjWdWAWJw6Y1aB87SULTQzSzGfP1VA0Sx_ekf6IPwM8HWuUJn3o1lVa93WNZMdwc4boHcRcjV3TqLAlC59H2_3QG-5nhQ2DGmNkksNiFcU1uywUKo1kSulYpFB9192gcSfWPM3KbCUI/s640/blogger-image--1257027897.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxdsSnHyXWH-hFWDHJIgkclkqcujNHBvOrtKK1bjLYSJc7l8SZd6AnG-OlccgNRvGzmLIBaQ6KOjzuNSTnAfFKWJUNyJqn8XvgwqRU9nOoifmoMggXaKZCkWt05eK5_mjr65w47q_8Es/s640/blogger-image-570948147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxdsSnHyXWH-hFWDHJIgkclkqcujNHBvOrtKK1bjLYSJc7l8SZd6AnG-OlccgNRvGzmLIBaQ6KOjzuNSTnAfFKWJUNyJqn8XvgwqRU9nOoifmoMggXaKZCkWt05eK5_mjr65w47q_8Es/s640/blogger-image-570948147.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Oh, let me also add that black food coloring does not easily wash off -lol!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuDowKer-0vM_3FuzFvgrBkFuvGj9IZfbO81LOgK2wUdx9vPkw20VZ5fT7QCn66-SmPkQA4-A24Gta49klARJ0B-agKbp4Smcx4z3Eq_xSlJG6ehHpd-RMxo_esZ2WZMxnjIpHDPOeFKg/s640/blogger-image-946694461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuDowKer-0vM_3FuzFvgrBkFuvGj9IZfbO81LOgK2wUdx9vPkw20VZ5fT7QCn66-SmPkQA4-A24Gta49klARJ0B-agKbp4Smcx4z3Eq_xSlJG6ehHpd-RMxo_esZ2WZMxnjIpHDPOeFKg/s640/blogger-image-946694461.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9CZUJMROn4ygMzqViloZKXw_IFtkTZC6YLrOvf0a4y_5D31F3xnDVGYvItz_xr2wIq_o8UBvVC4RkbuAZSDDNWEyVt68tDmcc2CF6t5ZgBIBfgJgtPE0_Ch0G9AFJ60lcSJqgKW9JyNA/s640/blogger-image-1148404912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9CZUJMROn4ygMzqViloZKXw_IFtkTZC6YLrOvf0a4y_5D31F3xnDVGYvItz_xr2wIq_o8UBvVC4RkbuAZSDDNWEyVt68tDmcc2CF6t5ZgBIBfgJgtPE0_Ch0G9AFJ60lcSJqgKW9JyNA/s640/blogger-image-1148404912.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-66305308117639609822013-10-28T13:19:00.001-05:002013-10-28T13:19:40.469-05:00Ah, those precious moments!This morning, I was having my quiet time before starting the day. I had finished reading my devotions and was writing in my prayer journal when Matthew came in. He was carrying the daily devotions book that we read at bedtime. Matthew asked if I would read a devotion to him and when I said "yes," asked if he could choose the "story." It was about being happy and trusting God even when bad things happen. When we were finished, Matthew commented about a drawing of a little boy who looked like someone in his class. This other little boy is not very nice to Matthew. So, I used the story I had just read to talk about God wanting us to be kind to others even if they are mean to us. We talked about how hard that is, but that it was the right thing to do. My sweet boy was so quiet and serious as we had that discussion. At the end, he said, "yes, mom it is hard. But, I will try." Oh, I tear up just thinking about it. My son has had so many "bad" things happen in his life. :-( but today, I had hope that perhaps we (with God's help) are starting to make a difference in that heart that has been so hurt. <div><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNexUOTDSzd57G7jVWT-4GzXzahf40JRM5kEJrmucEmXlbXwotShTqQaG3oZZd0SpqrSoGucg-LylLfroe_YoWMO5z-k0tuOHy_4mUFRxss06aCaQdqdxR75-XETfQ3gLG7dmaHzAIYmw/s640/blogger-image-594291862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNexUOTDSzd57G7jVWT-4GzXzahf40JRM5kEJrmucEmXlbXwotShTqQaG3oZZd0SpqrSoGucg-LylLfroe_YoWMO5z-k0tuOHy_4mUFRxss06aCaQdqdxR75-XETfQ3gLG7dmaHzAIYmw/s640/blogger-image-594291862.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-84382301868154046952013-10-17T20:40:00.001-05:002013-10-17T20:40:36.944-05:00ThankfulThursday again. This was an easy post.<div><br></div><div>- I think I have mentioned that our family has been able to be part of filming of a video honoring parents and caregivers of special needs children. There were over 600 families that participated. We had no expectations that we would be part of the video. It was just a privilege to be part of this amazing project! Last Sunday, we were able to attend the "premiere" party to see the final version of "Angel Child" by Michael Boylan. He is the father of a special needs child himself. Anyway, imagine our surprise and delight when our whole family was in one of the first clips! And then, Matthew and I were in another clip! www.reachformenetwork.com</div><div><br></div><div>- I don't know if I will be able to get the pics added in the right order, but so thankful for this face! Good thing that sweet corn season ended before the second tooth came out.</div><div> </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7lsglyFJ3bydI1yX81kmLICchszsAMl21LokGo-uC3ltc3vgVfbokXVUEMg6-IlRG5d3fSK3DJJd3X6y05oPct6IB6lMUnBLh7pD9otBvpNDTBWkkWq8krMyCwT0-1oDhwB2Y0nebhM/s640/blogger-image--908131839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7lsglyFJ3bydI1yX81kmLICchszsAMl21LokGo-uC3ltc3vgVfbokXVUEMg6-IlRG5d3fSK3DJJd3X6y05oPct6IB6lMUnBLh7pD9otBvpNDTBWkkWq8krMyCwT0-1oDhwB2Y0nebhM/s640/blogger-image--908131839.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>- Tonight, I told Miss Maia to take off her shoes and socks. Here's what I found... AMAZING!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxDt8KaKwHWfIUEJVrs7CCcOEj1oTHs4qImexvf7dnlh1Ladt67QXxFAWpuZSBOwx5k2zal_tspVvfLH0KYn4s8NYDnIKdaqslHeF8rDf0j8EZas_XPD6pAG_nm-61Js1TgItQrpm18Y/s640/blogger-image-844877690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxDt8KaKwHWfIUEJVrs7CCcOEj1oTHs4qImexvf7dnlh1Ladt67QXxFAWpuZSBOwx5k2zal_tspVvfLH0KYn4s8NYDnIKdaqslHeF8rDf0j8EZas_XPD6pAG_nm-61Js1TgItQrpm18Y/s640/blogger-image-844877690.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-60002517159930896432013-10-15T21:52:00.001-05:002013-10-15T21:52:46.499-05:00Just a quick brag!We had Matthew's first parent-teacher conference today. For some silly reason, I was nervous. Worried that we would find out he is really struggling. I walked in and sat down in the teeny, tiny kindergarten chair (someone should have had a picture of that -lol!) and his teacher started by saying, "Matthew is doing great! He is such a sweet kid and I love having him in our class." Oh, this Mama's heart was proud! Mrs. K said that Matthew is very polite and tries very hard. Although he is behind his peers in some skills and the effects of his medical issues impact his learning, he is making progress. Woohoo! You keep going, sweet boy - I know God has great plans for you!<div><br></div><div><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghe1u-OKbX3OKGUBlYEthKa0qRx9sfuZX7_ASTnhKWe-yl45bIjxGZeECFQKsqXti2LrrkAZLDqral1KLJNCcGE4uI8jXhBj83xRCZDjQ5HoUlFfl6KlBzyuKm8GGTjG7Y7LutYIIhS08/s640/blogger-image--875036144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghe1u-OKbX3OKGUBlYEthKa0qRx9sfuZX7_ASTnhKWe-yl45bIjxGZeECFQKsqXti2LrrkAZLDqral1KLJNCcGE4uI8jXhBj83xRCZDjQ5HoUlFfl6KlBzyuKm8GGTjG7Y7LutYIIhS08/s640/blogger-image--875036144.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNa1jwez9FDj63RsorrZkvqB-a85FYN9ZPNea61r59PobtAthtfEL7y-igzp-y-NVLJxFgrgEUp5RNfN34UblQfIqOtT64MJlON-91w1lQCbt-OqSy0YRiZHzxhRFaXrInWP015hA4U7s/s640/blogger-image--1263149375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNa1jwez9FDj63RsorrZkvqB-a85FYN9ZPNea61r59PobtAthtfEL7y-igzp-y-NVLJxFgrgEUp5RNfN34UblQfIqOtT64MJlON-91w1lQCbt-OqSy0YRiZHzxhRFaXrInWP015hA4U7s/s640/blogger-image--1263149375.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-38475493854633616512013-10-10T21:03:00.001-05:002013-10-10T21:03:36.432-05:00Thankful Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>So much to be thankful for this week! <div><br><div>- We put our old house on the market last Wednesday. Such a good feeling to have it ready. God surpassed my hopes and answered our prayers when we received an offer Monday! If all goes as planned, we will close on November 15!</div><div>- Another prayer of thanks to God for time with friends. I was able to get together with my friend Erica, whose son is adopted from the same orphanage as our kiddos. It is totally a blessing to visit with her and talk about the challenges and blessings of raising these children.</div></div><div>- An amazingly breathtaking sunrise this morning as Matthew and I walked out to wait for the bus. I had to run (which I'm sure was a hilarious sight) back to get my camera. What a reminder of God's gifts to us when we stop to notice.</div><div><br></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh38h1NgbY6j4SYyPNemI1NtMNFRFC42ubo-cgygIZaHQm8ja-KEL0objTNZVSPGPkBdd812CCnyrwNtlV25X3NPv0I1KdI5A0uTnc4bLuqiTpe2-_l75FrSp1B-T7CSEuVxj0-TM8O2O0/s640/blogger-image--1244041947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh38h1NgbY6j4SYyPNemI1NtMNFRFC42ubo-cgygIZaHQm8ja-KEL0objTNZVSPGPkBdd812CCnyrwNtlV25X3NPv0I1KdI5A0uTnc4bLuqiTpe2-_l75FrSp1B-T7CSEuVxj0-TM8O2O0/s640/blogger-image--1244041947.jpg"></a></div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2630658384945247344.post-85979568401634033042013-10-03T21:07:00.001-05:002013-10-03T21:07:45.982-05:00What's to be thankful for?Well, let's see...<div><br></div><div>- Our old house is officially on the market! We signed the paperwork on Tuesday and it is listed. Such a good feeling. I am praying that God will lead the right people to it and that it will sell quickly.</div><div><br></div><div>- I am really glad that tomorrow is Friday. It's been a week of poor sleep (between the kids being up at night and a rotten cold). I don't handle fatigue well (just ask my family) and I am looking forward to a bit of recuperation this weekend.</div><div><br></div><div>- Quiet time with God. I've been making it a priority to have time by myself every morning. I read my devotion for the day, and the Bible verses that go along with it, pray, journal a short message to my Heavenly Father... It makes such a difference in my ability to handle the rest of the day. I can always tell the difference when I haven't started my day with Him. </div><div><br></div><div>- Most nights when I put Matthew to bed, I take a few moments and give him a back rub or massage his face (his favorite), arms, or legs. Sometimes while I am doing this, I will pray over him. Usually asking God to fill Matthew's heart with peace and assurance that we love him, that our divine Healer will fill those gaping wounds from my precious boy's previous life, that Matthew will grow in His relationship with God, and that he will be filled with a desire to serve Him with all his heart. Matthew doesn't have much reaction to this and I have often wondered what he thinks. One night last week as we were walking to his room, Matthew asked, "Mom, will you talk to Jesus about me tonight?" Oh, my heart was filled with happiness as I responded "of course, kiddo. I love talking to Jesus about you." In the midst of daily challenges, those are the moments to treasure!</div><div><br></div><div>What's on your list this Thursday?</div>Mark and Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01170151322614136789noreply@blogger.com0