Thinking Outloud

Even after knowing Him as my Savior for 23 years, He still amazes me with how active and living His words are...

Sometimes I wonder if anyone wants to read through my thought processes but the fact is that writing them helps me work through them...and then a friend of mine reminded me that sharing with others what God is doing in our lives is glorifying to Him...SO, here's what I'm currently processing...

Let go of old ways - Cling to You - Be transformed

^"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

Accept this journey is ever changing in my eyes but that you have already planned it out to the last detail - You know how to glorify Yourself best

"For we walk by faith, not by sight."

2 Corinthians 5:7



 

Know that your plans are perfect and they are to prosper and not to hurt

 ^"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

 

Rest in the fact that I can not go out from Your presence



"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast."

Psalms 139:7-10

 

Love that You promise to watch your flock and even guide those who have children



"He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms
and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young."

Isaiah 40:11

Go forth in joy and peace

"You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and hills will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field will clap their hands."

Isaiah 55:12

Trust You in every circumstance, decision, though process, and emotion - for you have already overcome it all and You have the victory.



"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  John 16:33

PRAISE HIM!!

A Birthday in Pictures

We had fun celebrating Ryleigh's 2nd birthday all week long through trips to the ice cream shop, skype dates, swimming, and we ended it all with a princess party!  Here's some pictures from our week!  Hope you enjoy!

skyping with Rock & Lhi Lhi

headed to the pool

this girl LOVES bubbles

new beach ball

2 years old!

skyping & putting up Minnie clings with Grandma & Grangran

up until 2:30am the night before with a fever = a very tired bday girl

bowling with new friends

singing happy birthday

all the party guests

Our guard & housekeeper's family - we LOVE them and are so grateful for them

Happy Birthday Ryleigh!

Dear Ryleigh

Ryleigh Elizabeth, you are two years old today.  TWO!  I can't believe how the time has flown by...sometimes I catch myself just staring at you.  You can no longer be called a baby (except by me - you'll always be my baby girl!), because you are definitely a toddler.  You are 35 inches tall and weigh 29 lbs.


January 4, 2011
a few hours old

I love our little routines we have throughout the day and it always makes me smile when you remind me of what we need to be doing.  Hearing you ask to read your Bible story every morning, saying the blessing before you eat, remembering on your own to say "please" & "thank you", and wanting to give everyone hugs & kisses before bedtime - melts my heart. 

January 4, 2012
1 year old

You love being outside and around people.  God has created such a special personality in you, my sweet girl.  Your laughter is contagious and your smile seems to break down even the highest cultural walls that surround us.  There are times that I take for granted how patient you are when mommy is talking to someone in the market, or how your active little body can be so still when something important is taking place...it's like you know God is working around you.  But, don't worry silly girl, you have your "spotlight" moments too.  Most Sundays, it seems that you believe that you are there to lead worship - by singing and dancing to every song.  No matter where we are, people know you're there...you make sure of it, by going up, shaking their hand, and then proceeding to make sure everyone else greets them correctly too. 

January 4, 2013-2 years old

I truly treasure the days He has given to me to spend with you.  You are such a gift, Ryleigh.  There are so many things that I hope and pray for you but above all else it's that the One who created you will one day be the Lord of your life, that He will be the King & Ruler of your heart.  Until that day, and all the days that follow, I pray that I will always point you to Him.  That you will know unconditional love from Love Himself and that it flows through me in all that I say & do as your mommy.

January 4, 2013 - 2 years old