A Mother's Musings

The time of Christmas is upon us once again.  This year it snuck up on me faster than in years past.  Probably because we've been in PA for the last month.  I've done most of the kids' shopping online this year.  Kind of hard to find time to go out shopping, especially being away from Arkansas; didn't want to haul it all back with us. 

We weren't expecting to have Christmas in Arkansas again.  Thought we'd be moved by now.  It is neat to see how God is teaching us contentment.  Although we've been disappointed that our house hasn't sold twice, neither of us are worried or anxious, just excited about who God has to buy our house and when we can move.  In the meantime we wait, wait, wait and look for what God has to teach us while we wait. 

The kids are really looking forward to moving.  They've made friends at our church in PA and like seeing their cousins so often. We haven't been able to do much this time because of the snow, but they've played outside some and there is always McDonald's playland!

It will be nice to live up here again.  We're ready for the change...

I'm up right now because Bethany didn't go to sleep like she normally has been after her last feeding.  She is such a random little girl!  We think we have her figured out only to have her change on us again.  The other kids would either put themselves on a schedule or were fairly easy to schedule.  Not our Bethany!  She loves change and does it frequently.  Luke enjoyed a lot of smiles tonight, though.  She is very much awake right now!

Nate also got up.  I heard noise upstairs and looked up only to find him playing with some toys.  Weird!  Was it something they ate? :)  Couldn't be since Bethany doesn't "eat" yet!  Just a funny night.

Next week we're going to start school again.  That should be interesting.  Still not sure how it will be, but I think we need to get school going.  I don't want to be doing it when the weather is nicer.  They've liked having a break but seem to be bored from all their freedom. 

Luke is up, too.  He stays up with me when Bethany stays awake.  Very sweet of him.  He also takes her when she stays up in the early morning.  Sleep helps alot with taking care of everyone. 

I think Bethany may actually be ready for bed...

A few weeks ago our kids started a new year of Sunday School in new classes.  Nate is now in an official class instead of a nursery type setting.  Coming home from church we asked him what he had learned about.  He told us he learned about "John the badness".  At first I couldn't figure out what he was talking about.  Then we realized he meant "John the Baptist"  It took a lot of convicing to get him to believe he hadn't heard his teacher correctly!  The next Sunday we asked him what he had learned.  He said "It isn't John the badness anymore, its John the goodness" because he had baptized Jesus.  We love our Nate!

Yesterday I ventured out with the children to see an American Girl movie, "Kit Kitteredge" which was showing at the dollar theatre.  I had surprised the kids by not telling them until we arrived at the theatre.  I told the boys that I knew it was a girlie movie, but that that is the one we were going to see.  I asked Zach if he'd be ok seeing a girl movie and he told me "I'll survive with popcorn!"  I had already planned on getting them popcorn, so I was glad that I would make it more comfortable for Zach to watch the movie.  (hee hee!)  We love our Zach!

You may think that the title refers to our kids.  They certainly are growing up quickly.  In fact, I just had to buy Danielle, Alex and Zach shoes because there shoes were about 2 sizes two small for them. Poor guys!  I felt bad they've been scrunching their toes into uncomfortable shoes.  Such has been our lives recently, though! 

Actually, I am referring to ME!  With each child we've been blessed with I've grown up more and more.  It startles me sometimes as I look at our brood and think: these are all mine?  I join the lady at the grocery store yesterday who asked me if they were all mine.  Her response to me say, "Yes!" was a simple, yet profound, "Wow!"  I am

wow-ed often!

It is odd to me that I still feel about 18 years old.  My grandmother who passed away a year ago from June said she still felt 18 as well when she was well into her 80's and 90's.  So I guess it isn't too strange to still feel young while life continues. 

I realized today that I don't doubt being able to "do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  I struggle with not knowing how to carry out things: how to explain heart issues to my children, how to be the best helper to Luke, even what to have for dinner!  There are always decisions to be made,priorities for the day to make, organizing of kids, home, errands, etc, etc.  It is an awesome job to be resonsible for a home and children.  Luke and are very convicted that we are the ones God has setforth in the Bible to teach them His Word.  We are thankful for the church's provision of Sunday School, but we know that we alone are who God has Biblically declared are the ones He wants to teach them about Him and His word that is written in the Bible alone.  That can be an overwhelming task at times!  But in His Word He gives us direction and I need to be more faithful in asking Him for His wisdom in the Bible.

Oh, I've started rambling again!  My point is that I am growing up every day and realizing how much more there is for me to learn!  Guess that is what God means when He says He's still continuing the good work He started until heaven!

It has been a little over two weeks since our sweet Bethany was born.  Life is developing a new normal as we all adjust to having a little one in the house again.  Lack of sleep and feeling worn out is taking its toil on me, but God is sustaining me with naps throughout the day and having extra help last week ( my mom came for the week and was such a blessing to our family!  She kept telling me she didn't think she did anything except play with the kids, but that in and of itself was a help!  They enjoyed having someone else around while I was feeding Bethany or sleeping.  Mom also did laundry, cleaned up around the house and prepared meals.  I am so thankful she came!  The week before Luke was home.  He is my knight and takes care of us all so well!)  The kids get weary at times of doing more things for themselves, but are learning that they are being a help and serving their family.  I have seen the older two, especially, grow in their attitudes of serving and sacrificing for our family.  It is neat to see God use this in their lives and that they are responding positively to Him.  I miss spending more time with them but know that this time I'm spending with Bethany won't last forever and that soon enough I will be able to spend more time with all the children. 

Each day Bethany grows and develops.  Yesterday she followed a block with her eyes.  Danielle was delighted!  I am hoping soon she rewards us with smiles.  She smiles in her sleep and has smiled once when awake, though I don't think she was aware of doing it. 

In Nate news, he is now in a 3yr old Sunday school class.  After his first Sunday in it, we asked him what he learned about.  He told us he learned about "John the Badness". :)  We quickly realized he meant John the BAPTIST. :)   After the next Sunday we asked him again what he'd learned about.  He told us that it wasn't John the Badness, but he was John the Goodness.  What a character our little Nate is!

Our dear precious daughter, Bethany was born to us on August 15th at 4:46pm weighing 8lbs, 21 inches.  She is our second daughter and fifth child.  My labor and delivery with her was unusual in the fact that I was in labor with her for about 2 weeks before actually having her.  My doctor told me that this isn't uncommon with subsequent pregnancies.  I basically was having contractions daily that increased up to her birthday.  Without giving unnecessary details, I ended up having my labor induced on August 15th in order to have a safe delivery.  Luke and I are so thankful to God for modern medicine to aid in deliveries that might otherwise not be safe. 

Now at home we are adjusting to the lack of sleep, periods of screaming (she doesn't really cry, more of a high pitched scream!), etc. that comes with a new baby.  And, of course, the overall amazement that God has given us this little one with our other four children to raise for His glory.

Bethany is amazingly alert for being a newborn as well as persistant. I think she realizes her birth order and makes sure her voice (literally!) is heard.  She is loved and adored by her siblings we enjoy doting over her.  Alex and Danielle even hold her when she's screaming.  They all have done well to welcome her into our family. 

Overall we are tired and worn out, but realize that "this too shall pass" and fast!  They grow up quickly!

No, I'm not talking about the baby (though that subject is constantly on my mind these days)  I'm referring to our house.  We have had an offer and have accepted it, but there are contingencies for the sale going through.  One of which is the inspection.  I dread this because in the Spring we had an offer that we accepted, but the deal fell through after the inspection.  Now, we know our house is old and has "issues", but we try to be upfront with them when people say they are interested in the house.  Luke has worked hard to fix the two main problems-one dealt with electrical boxes the other with a clogged pipe, so hopefully that will be enough for this couple and other flaws will be overlooked or not seen as major issues. 

A verse I read this morning in my devotions stuck out to me in regards to waiting for things to fall into place with the house (and baby!)  It is Psalms 33:22 "Let Your steadfast love, O LORD, be upon us even as we hope in You."  It was very comforting to be reminded that He is the One who holds our future, our plans and in His timing things will come about.  In the meantime the waiting is for our good, to grow us and refine us. 

I am learning much about selling a house- all the costs involved with closing, each step towards the closing date, different papers to sign, etc.  But what I am learning most is that "The heart of the man plans his ways, but the LORD establishes His steps." Proverbs 16:9.  He has given us this desire to sell our house and move and how that will come about is all in His control.

In kids' news:  our children have been diligently helping me clean the house over the last 5 days.  We took Sunday off, but Friday and Sunday were deep cleaning days, including their rooms.  We took a van full of unused toys and other items to the Salvation Army store Saturday afternoon.  Yesterday and today were spent doing regular cleaning.  It has been a gift from God to have them all old enough to really help clean.  They've had wonderful attitudes about it, too.  All of them seem to be aware of my need for help because of physical pain I'm experiencing with this pregnancy.  When I hobble about from back pain, Nate and Alex have both come up to me and held out their hands and told me "I'll help you walk, Mommy."  So sweet!!  What gentlemen they are becoming!  Danielle is a great help in the kitchen with meals.  She likes learning how to cook and I'm sure once Bethany comes there will be many opportunities for me to teach her more.  Zach is a very diligent worker and doesn't have to be reminded to do his daily chores.  He also plays very well with Nate when the older children and I are occupied with our chores.  This week they are not going to have school again.  It has been good to have more time to get some things done before Bethany is born.  I hope to start again in a couple of weeks.  Then soon after that will be "aunt Mimi's" wedding!  What fun that will be! 

Well, I've continued to ramble and will now stop!

Dearest Bethany I cannot wait

For you to come,please don't delay!

You move around, romp and play

Inside my "belly" both night and day.

We're ready for you; all things are washed:

Little dresses,bibs,onesies and socks.

Your cradle is made by bed with care

Nate even put in it two Teddy bears!

With God's direction you will come.

We love you dearest little one!

Only 2-4 week until our precious little girl arrives!  I keep praying for earlier rather than later.  Slowly things are getting done around the house to prepare us for this blessing:  packed my bag and hers for the hospital, have a "menu" list of foods Luke can either prepare or get out of the freezer, baby clothes are washed, initial set of diapers have been bought.  I still need to pack the kids' bag and prepare freezer meals. set up cradle, get car seat ready.  Oh, but its so close!

This past Wednesday was our second ultrasound.  It was amazing to see her inside me.  She sucked her tongue, had the hiccups and breathed!  She had chubby cheeks and moved around a lot.  My doctor guesses she'll weigh 7- 7 1/2 pounds when she is born.  We'll see!  3 out of 4 have been that weight, so it isn't an unrealistic guess.

On the house selling front we've had three days this week of showing the house.  One couple came twice and expressed interest in it.  We're just waiting for an offer now.  All in God's timing and all in His control.

The kids have been working hard at school these last two weeks.  We have one more week of school and then VBS at church.  After that, who knows?  Hopefully Bethany will be here by then!  Nate has felt a little left out since we all are busy with school.  I've tried to involve him more during my time teaching Zach.  He likes to repeat the phonics sounds with Zach.  I also try to play a game, read to him, etc. throughout the day.  It will be another adjustment for everyone when Bethany comes and again when we move.  I am thankful that the kids so far don't seem too stretched from all the different things happening in our lives.  They are excited about their baby sister, looking forward to moving, and overall have enjoyed school, though they get worn out at the end of the day.  I would say the thing that they haven't enjoyed is the repeated cleaning of the house to show it to people.  I must agree I will be glad when that aspect of things is done as well. 

 

Selling a house is stressful!  It has been a nice break from trying to sell our house to be in Pennsylvania with my family.  A break from cleaning at the last minute because someone has called to look at the house.  A break from showing people the house, answering questions, and the endless waiting for the phone call of an offer.  I have to remind myself that God is the One who will bring the right buyers along to complete the sale.  It would be an added stress without God's sovereignty to try and sell our house by ourselves.  Soon we will be back in the midst of all that's involved in selling a house as well as beginning a new school year, as well as preparing for a new baby as well as daily life.  Seems impossible but "on Christ the solid Rock I stand" because "all other ground is sinking sand".  Now if only I would remember this as well during the height of stress!! :)

The future is exciting!  God's plan is perfect and good for us, so it is with much anticipation that I look forward to it.  I know there will be hardship and trials, but God is becoming more and more of a comfort to me as I learn who He is.  It will be nice living near my family and having Miriam and John so close.  The possibility of building our house is moving along.  The church we would like to attend has been wonderful to visit this week.  The kids were able to go to VBS and had a great time.  They met new friends and look forward to seeing them again when we move. 

And, of course, there is Bethany <sigh>.  Another sweet girl to love and teach about God to.  We are all anticipating her arrival.  It will be neat to see how much of her personality I sense with her already.  She is active no matter what I aim doing: talking, walking, sitting, eating.  She likes to stretch more often these days as her space is shrinking.  She's been getting the hiccups more recently as well.  It is hard to be patient when such blessing is so close!

I am also looking forward to my sister's baby, due in July.  She actually would be fine having "Special K' (K for their last name) this week, so I've been praying if baby would be alright to be born before we leave that he/she would.  They haven't found out what their baby is, which adds to the curiousity and anticipation. 

Thank you LORD!

Words are very powerful things.  In the book of James in the Bible it talks about our tongue being a curse to our fellow humans while trying to praise God at the same time.  In Ephesians it talks about building each other up with edifying words instead of tearing each other down.  Words spoken can't be seen but they can be felt either as something that strengthens us or as something that injures us.  Proverbs has ALOT to say about words- what words to have when confronting someone and what words are foolish; how to deal with an angry person and how to bring healing to others; and on and on.

Behind words is something even more powerful- our thoughts.  Proverbs also tells us that what is inside us will overflow out of us.  Our words are the outcomes of our thoughts.  When we've spoken harsh words its because harsh thougths were already inside us.  When we've spoken kind words its because God has given us the ablility to have kind thoughts.  Like James 4 states, fresh water can't come from a salty ocean.  So harsh words don't come out if your heart has thoughts of patience, love and kindness. 

Communication is something that facinates me.  Partially because I'm no good at doing it correctly all the time and partially because it is a beautiful thing when it is done correctly.  There is such a peace that comes when words are spoken at the right time, in the right way and are received correctly.  It is like a beautiful picture or piece of music that flows so smoothly from one line to the next.  How I desire to have that come out of me all the time!  But it doesn't and God in His wonderfulness has provided another method of communication for that: asking and receiving forgiveness.  Not only when you wrong someone else, but when someone else feels wronged.  There can't be a healing between people unless there is communication.

So, there you have it.  Some random thoughts I was having today about communication.  I've been communicating with many different people lately in different ways and it just struck me how complex communication is yet how complete it is when done correctly. 

I get too bogged down in life that I forget to take a step back and thank God for all the grace He gives me in my life.  It is sad, actually, that I forget so easily and so often.  In my mind's eye, the "trials" I go through take the focus instead of the reason behind the trial that God has allowed in my life.  So, if you care to continue here is just a snippet of things I am thankful for:

Jesus-His salvation and the hope He gives to "overcome the world"

godly husband Luke who loves me, cares for me, provides for me and desires to grow daily in his relationship with God that overflows into his relationship with me, our chidren and others

5 healthy growing children and the opportunity to share with them daily the saving grace of God

being able to read God's word in my own language when so many people can't, having a church to go to that seeks to teach His word accurately and without apology for speaking the truth

godly friends who encourage, come alongside, and love me enough to tell me when I need correction in a kind way

Luke's job, our house, and all the provisions we have in this rich country

airconditioning (I think I hear Bethany saying "amen!" :) )

the ability to still walk around this late in my pregnancy. with Nate I was having more back and leg problems at this point

washer machines and dryers-can't imagine washing all our clothes by hand, although "back then" they didn't have as many clothes either

extended family- they tend to show us the good, the bad and the ugly in all of us and are given by God for our good and His glory

music-how wise God was in "orchestrating" this way to worship Him, remember His commands and promises and to communicate feeling

airconditioning...oh, I already mentioned that one! :)  Hey, for a pregnant lady, it is a real refreshment!

Oh, I could go on, but this was good to reflect on the small blessings as well as keep my mind on things above.  God is gracious.

Our dear sweet daughter Danielle turns 9 today!  What a blessing and gift she has been in so many ways!  Not only is she so helpful to me, God has used her to brighten our lives, experience new things, and overall love life more.  As a horse-lover, she wanted a horse themed birthday.  We have pictures from an old horse calendar that she and I framed with poster board hung around the kitchen.  On her icecream cake will be a horse scene.  Although we won't be riding horses tonight, she, her brothers, and daddy will ride on go-karts after dinner.  What an exciting day!

Dearest Danielle, I pray God continues to cause your heart to be tender to His Ways and that you grow into a godly young lady as you are beginning to do!  Happy Birthday precious girl!

Tonight Luke and I celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary by renewing our vows.  Luke surprised me last year with a renewed proposal and the gift of a ceremony.  I admit it has reminded me of times of the sometimes stressful time of planning a wedding, but overall it was a lot of fun.  I was able to do things this time that we were unable to do for our wedding.  We had beautiful flowers on the reception and food tables.  Danielle and I got our nails done today.  She really enjoyed being pampered.  Friends of mine did my hair and makeup.  We are blessed with the church family we have here. 

It is amazing to think it has been ten years since we were married.  I don't think of myself being ten years older and yet I know I have grown in so many ways from that 21 year old.  I definately didn't know then what I know now about the type of commitment one makes when they say the vows.  Tonight had more meaning for me when I promised Luke things like "for better or for worse, in sickness and in health" and my favorite part that I say to him "where you go, I will go, where you lodge, I will lodge, your people will be my people and your God will be my God".  I am so blessed.

Happy anniversary, Luke.  I love you!

Quite a few changes are going on for our family-new baby, selling of house, moving, end of school year, etc., etc.  It is easy to lose focus and get caught up in the doing while forgetting the reason behind it all.  God has graciously helped us along the way with all the activities in our lives.  We can see His hand in all of it.   For two years we have been prayerfully seeking what His will is for us.  Now, it seems, to be revealed quite clearly.  we are excited about the future, knowing it will be sad to leave the family He's given us here.  But as someone told me yesterday,all Christians are Christ's church so no matter where we are we are connected and can serve the church where He calls us to be.  It gives me chills just thinking about it! 

There are many unknowns at this point that are out of our hands, but the future is in God's hands and we know He will explain it to us in His timing.  The BEST place to live is in God's will.  I know His will for me is to be by Luke's side wherever God calls Luke to be.  I am Luke's helpmeet and am happiest and most fulfilled when I submit to God by submitting to Luke. God is very loving to have designed marriage the way He did!

The children are also looking forward to the changes.  There will be sad times, times for adjusting to new things, but overall, they, too will grow through it all.

Happy Birthday my wonderful Luke!  This morning I thought how I have been celebrating Luke's birthday since he turned 19, our freshman year at college.  We have both grown so much since then.  Married for almost 10 years we have worked hard at our relationship, our family, growing in Christ.  He has graciously given us godly guidance.  It is joy to go through this journey of life with my Luke.  He is kind, gracious, forgiving and gift from God to me.  He shows me Christ's love for the church.  I am humbled at God's kindness to me.  It truly amazes me that He would give me Luke as my husband.  I love his intellect, thinking through things, working hard to do the right thing.  His character is above reproach and he sets an example to others at his work and wherever we go.  It might be said "he sounds perfect!".  Reality tells us that isn't true, but in my eyes, he is.  God's forgiveness covers us both and we are left standing in His righteousness.  I love my Luke, my husband.

Today I will make some of his favorites: raisin bread, berry pie.  We will go out to eat for dinner at a favorite restaurant- Black Angus.  To some, a simple celebration, but to those who know Luke, simple celebrations of honor are the most meaningful. 

God gives mothers a special gift to remember the birth of each of their children no matter how old they become.  Looking back seven years ago today, I still remember heading to the hospital about this time to deliver our second child, first son, Alex.  My doctor jokingly told me Alex would be here before lunch...and he was!  Born around 11am Alex was 8lbs, 7oz!  My biggest baby so far!  He was a strong baby and is still strong in many ways.  Alex is a huge help to me.  He gets his youngest brother dressed in the morning, helps get breakfast made and has his weekly chores.  Alex brings excitement to our lives because he is very creative and loves to tell you all he has learned.  Many a time have I heard, "Mommy did you know..." and off he goes with the latest fact about rockets or newest info on a planet.  Yes, Alex is in an astronomy phase (it helps to have studied it this year for science!) and really likes to make rockets, spaceships and robots.  He is an excellent artist and enjoys drawing pictures for us all.  He is definately all boy and likes to run around outside (usually with a stick) playing with his siblings.  My heart's prayer, as it is for all my children is that he would realize his need for Jesus Christ to be his Savior.  We are blessed to have Alex in our family!  I love my little boy!

Today we will head to church for our semi-annual Share n' Swap.  Alex is excited because its his bithday he gets to bring home 5 special toys while his siblings will bring home 4 (cuts down on the amount of extra toys around the house)  For breakfast he's requested cinnamon rolls so I am trying out Anna's recipe.  For lunch he's chosen hot dogs and dinner will be macaroni and cheese from a box. :)  We have a special surprise for him later in the evening.  We will all go to the Ephisphere at the Imax theatre for a show on Black holes.  I can't wait for him to find out!

Alexander Luke you are a gift from God!  We love you and Happy Birthday!!

There are only a few more weeks left of school for the Little Lofgren children.  We began early August and have been working our way through our books.  April 25 should be the last day for most of their subjects.  Danielle may have one more week of English Grammar left.  We all have the "end of the year itch".  I think it has been "irritated" also by the fact we are putting our house up for sale.  We are also venturing into having a garage sale this Saturday.  Our living room looks like...well, a garage sale!  We motivated the kids to get rid of their unwanted/unplayed with toys by telling them they could keep the money they make from selling them.  Danielle especially has been making piles of things to sell.  VERY good!  In some ways she has more toys than the boys!  It's amazing how one little girl can collect so many play purses, dress up clothes, dolls, stuffed animals, etc.  We are also working on cleaning out the workshop.  What a mess!  It's our fault that we didn't work on it earlier, but such is life and that's where we are right now.  LORD willing we will be able to sell the unwanted furniture in it.  We are having GARAGE SALE prices at our garage sale. :)  CHEAP!  In fact our ad in the paper will say "Gettin' rid of it sale"  We don't want to have things left over!  But if we do, our church's share n' swap is the following Saturday so we'll just get rid of it that way!

Bethany has been moving around alot lately.  I notice she listens to the kids and Luke.  She'll be moving around when its quiet and then when someone talks she stops.  I am enjoying this pregnancy very much!  Most mornings I wake up amazed and excited all over again that we are having another baby and a GIRL baby!  Not that a boy wouldn't have been welcomed, just saying its exciting to have another daughter.

Alex and Danielle are a great help to me these days.  Alex gets Nate dressed and ready in the morning.  Danielle makes breakfast.  We try to talk to them about helping out more with the move and new baby coming.  They are responding very well to it.  Zach also is aware that more help is needed.  He sets the table in the morning for breakfast and has been playing with Nate very well lately.  It is such an awesome responsibility to teach and train them.  It is neat to see them grow both practically and spiritually.  One time Zach needed help with something and I told him to wait a minute.  I could hear him singing "Amazing Grace" while he waited.  When I was able to help him he stopped singing and said, "Maybe he was lost because he was blind" So profound coming from a 5 year old!  And little Nate is quickly growing, too.  His latest joke "why did the person cross the road?  To eat food on the other side!"  He talks to Bethany and gives her (ie, my belly) kisses.  He seems to be warming up to having a sister.  Praise God for that!  He was a little devestated when we found out she was a she.

Our dear little boy turned 3 years old yesterday!  We had an exciting day of going to the zoo and playing in a McDonald's playland.  At home we enjoyed Nate's menu of choice: chicken nuggets, yum!  We had a chocolate chip cookie cake that had a dinosaur theme complete with a cookie volcano and red icing lava! 

We love our little boy!  When I tell him he isn't my baby anymore he tells me "you have a baby in you's belly." It is so much fun to watch him grow up!  This morning he started punching his fists in the air and told me that God does this; "God punches people".  I couldn't figure out where he'd get an idea like that.   Then I thought, maybe he heard something wrong and told him "God doesn't punch people, but He punishes people."  He said, "yeah, He punishes people"  So cute!!

This morning was a big morning for the Lofgren family.  We left at 7:30am to drive to my doctor's building to have an ultrasound of the newest member of our family.  Lovingly we have been calling this baby blessing, Baby #5 as we did not know whether we were having another son/brother or daughter/sister. 

Around 8am we were called to go to the ultrasound room.  The ultrasound tech began her work as my four children sat on a bench nearby and Luke stood near them.  They had full view of the monitor to be able to actua;lly inside my womb at their new brother/sister.  It has always fascinated me that the techs know exactly what they are looking at: kidneys, liver, heart complete with four chambers, stomach, diaphram, spine, etc.  She pointed out each part of our baby telling us what it was, that the measurement looked good and what she was looking for next.  Everything looks great!  The baby is about 8 ounces now.  Amazing.  At one point we got to see baby's face.  She (yes, that's a big hint) was looking at us from the inside out.  She, of course, didn't know we were seeing her, but we were able to gaze at her beautiful face.  A couple of times the tech made sure, but we're definately having a girl, Bethany Dawn.

This baby is a tremendous blessing to our family.  Many prayers of asking God what His will is in regards to having another baby have been answered.  More prayers of having another girl have also been answered.  All of these blessings are overwhelming to behold.  God's goodness is even too much for me to handle without His strength.  I don't deserve it, never demanded it, wasn't entirely believing it would happen.  Although what we want doesn't always coincide with what God wants (which what is best for us), this time, it did.  It is something that is almost too incredible for me to put into words.  Its looking at God's blessings and grace from the inside out.

We've been celebrating our healthy baby girl by taking a day off from school, eating a picnic lunch outside and will have a special pizza dinner tonight (at least the kids will...Luke and I will take the oldest three to church tonight for AWANA and then head to a restaurant for a date with Nate....and Bethany)

All praises to Him to whom glory is due!

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of Lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." James 1:17

Joyous Joyous!  Our little man is five today!  How happy he was to know he is now five!  Last Saturday we had a birthday party for him.  He had 5 of his friends come over for a Knight theme party.  They decorated swords and shields, played an obstacle course game and ate cake and icecream.  He was happy with his gifts and definately enjoyed having his friends over.  The weather was beautiful (praise God!) so there was much outside play.

 Today we continued the celebration with donuts that Luke went out early in the morning to pick up before he went to work.  Zach picked out the menu for the day:  oatmeal and donuts for breakfast, chicken nuggets for lunch, pizza for dinner.  Needless to say, we ALL enjoyed his choices!  We had more cake and icecream and presents after Daddy came home.  In his AWANA class tonight he passed out lollipops to his classmate.  He told me he got to be the co-leader of all the lines along with another boy who's birthday also was today.  Very special for our little guy!

 We love you Zachariah!  You are our gift!

Currently I am 14 weeks and 4 days.  So far I'm not feeling too bad.  I'm over "morning sickness" and aren't as tired.  Typical, I guess for the beginning of the second semester.  I'm starting to "show" but it is more due to the two hernias I have than actually baby.  The hernias aren't anything serious.  One is a result of having four children, the other I've had since I was born, but didn't show up really until I had four children.

Both doctor's visits we were able to hear the heartbeat.  Although it was more difficult to find the first time, it was strong once we found it.  Danielle likes to ask me how baby is doing almost every day.  She wants to know when I feel the baby move.  I haven't officially felt baby move.  I think I have at different times, but it hasn't been consistant.  I felt Alex move at 14 weeks, but he ended up being my biggest child, so in some ways it might be good I haven't felt baby yet!  It is hard for me to wait to see the ultrasound in three and a half weeks.  I am so excited to know if we are having Bethany or boy-name-yet-to-be-determined. :)  So, all in all, things are moving along with this baby.

This morning our family ventured to the doctor's office for my (and baby's) monthly check up.  We were all able to hear the heartbeat.  I never get tired of it.  It is always amazing.  I still am amazed that I am again pregnant.  Amazed and thankful to a gracious God who knows our innermost desires and grants us them according to His perfect plan. 

In a month we will venture again to the doctor's office first stopping at the radiology department for our first ultrasound of "baby #5".  We will be able to see baby in the womb and be even more amazed at God's handiwork. 

I really like my doctor and his staff.  His nurse has been very helpful with different questions and is friendly at each visit.  His office staff welcomes us ALL with smiles and hellos.  They enjoy seeing our children and have told me how wonderful it is that we are looking forward to and are having more children.  It is nice when others see the blessing and joy of children.

Tonight I have a date with Luke...and Nate while the others are at AWANA.  We are only going to Walmart but time away with "mostly" only Luke is valuable! 

Tomorrow night we (the children and I) have some special things planned for Luke.  Friday, our homeschool group has its annual Valentine's day party.  Saturday night I have my special Valentine's dinner at Ashley's restaurant.  Updates on all the happenings to follow.

I was going to write that nothing profound was happening in our lives right now, but the fact that we have our lives is profound enough.  Not that I wanted THAT to sound profound, its just how it is.  It is beyond comprehension that God gives any of us life, nurtures us, guides us, loves us, saves us- all for His glory.  And the biggest whammie in it all is that He didn't have to make us at all to be glorified.  He was enough for Himself before Life was created.  Which leads to the question WHY?  The answer: Ephesians 1:11b "who works all things according to the counsel of His will"  Just because He wanted to.  Profound.

All that said, we had an ice rain today.  The kids enjoyed watching it from the back porch.  They were hoping for snow.  So far we've had none.  Just wait until next year, hee hee!  They'll see more snow than they thought possible!  We had a semi-successful week of school.  I tend to be tired most days, naturally.  The kids are remarkably supportive when I end school early ( ;) ).  My goals for the weekend are to clean the house, organize the school week, bake some banana bread and cut Luke's hair.

Interestingly, I think I am lactose intolerant.  I won't go into the details of how I came to this conclusion, but let's just say I thought it was just morning sickness.  Now that I am drinking Soy milk I feel a lot better.  Except for when I eat something that has milk in it then I feel bad again. Ha!

I am blessed.  God has overwhelmed with His love.

Quotes of the day: Nate "I hope its a boy.  You have lots of boys!  Then I can play with him."

Zach (after hearing the baby's heartbeat) "Mommy, I really think it sounds like a girl heartbeat!"

Early this morning around 1am my Grandmother Cunningham died in her sleep.  She was 84 years old.  Most of her adult life was spent serving others.  She gave birth to 11 chidren; 4 boys, 5 girls, and 1 stillborn girl who my mother helped name, Carol.  Not only did she raise her own children, but she became a mother to many other children who lived with them throughout the years at their farm ranch in Leon, Kanasas.  She selflessly gave of herself through those years as there were many mouths to feed and not a lot of money to go around.  After my mother went to college in 1971 my Grandparents moved to Conway, AR.  This is where I remember them the most.  We would spend our two week family vacation at their house every year until I was in highschool.  We always enjoyed the trip down to Arkansas from Pennsylvania.  Staying with Grandpa and Grandma was a treat!  Grandma always continued to serve us while were there.  She had toys for us to play with, would show us her special things and had beautiful orchestra music playing in her house.  My Grandmother was an excellent pianist.  She was a church pianist for years, but in her younger years she entered many competitions and accompanied many singers and other musicians.  Her love for music inspired me to want to play the piano and play it well. 

Above all my Grandmother was a Chrisitan.  She loved her LORD and sought to serve Him in all she did.  Her prayer was for everyone in her family to be saved.  She always gave credit to God and sought to make Him known verbally and in her life.  Right now, I'm sure she is praising Him with a renewed passion!

Although she will be missed, her legacy continues.  I love you Grandmother!

Small and tiny, quite petite

But not a sweeter dog you'd meet

Just returning from a Russian dream

I named her Marushna which means "icecream" 

She was my first dog and I loved her so

When I left for college she didn't know why I had to go

Adopted by my loving sister

I'd think of "Roosh", oh how I'd missed her!

Although I moved quite far away

She remembered me as if she'd seen me every day

But now she's gone after living a long life

At the end she struggled through the pain and strife.

I will never forget her wiggling tail

Dancing around with a delightful air

She will be missed, that is true

Marooshna, dear, I love you!

*Marooshna lived for 14 people years and 91 dog years

It is 10pm and I am beginning to make our traditional Christmas morning cinnamon pecan rolls.  The kids are all in bed excited about the events of tomorrow.  I've had a fairly nauteous day today but have been able to rest more since Luke was home (Praise God!)  My "morning sickness" seems to come in long lingering time periods.  Last week it lasted for 2 1/2 days then I was fine until last night when it started up again and has lasted throughout the day.  Ok, so not the most pleasant topic to talk about, but its where I'm at in life currently! 

The children enjoyed playing together today as we didn't have school and won't for two weeks.  I'm hoping to get some cleaning and organizing done, but we'll see how much gets accomplished if I am sick. 

It is wonderful to know Christmas is tomorrow!  It is exciting watching the kids open their presents.  We love being able to freely tell them WHY we celebrate Christmas.  Jesus' birth is just the beginning of God's love towards us.  It amazes me that Christ was so humble to become a baby, fully dependant on others to care for Him.  What an example to us of servanthood.  I learned this year that He became a baby and grew into manhood so that we could come to Him knowing He's been through what we go through.  He could have just become a man instantly, already grown up.  But He chose to be a baby, toddler, child, teenager, adult so we could come to Him.  What an awesome God we serve!

 May you all have a Blessed Christmas!

God is gracious, kind and of course, all knowing to when the perfect time to give us gifts.  We're expecting our 5th child in August!  We were full of emotions when we found out: shocked, surprised, confused, thrilled, thankful, overwhelmed, overjoyed, and overall excited.  Although this newest blessing was unexpected to us, the best gifts are and we are beyond happy to welcome this new little one into our family.  As Danielle said this evening, "We're a family of 7 now!"  We celebrate the life of our little one!  This baby is a blessing from the LORD and we want everyone to know of His goodness towards us! 

Here are our kids initial responses to the news:

Danielle "We're having a baby! I hope its a girl!" :)

Alex "Is it a boy or girl?  Where is it?"

Zach "We're having a baby?

Nate (In response to Danielle) "I's a boy..." :)

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Who would have known my one would be you

God's plan from before; He already knew

The one to care for, lead and always be

My best friend, lover, the husband for me

You've grown into a man after God's heart

Continuing to learn; pursuing Him from the start

You love our family and desire to grow

More and more like your LORD no matter how slow

My heart rejoices you were kept for me alone

To cultivate the love that God has sown

As a young girl I prayed for you through the years

And my prayers were answered by our God who hears

At the time I didn't know you were my gift from above

Sent by our Father for me to love

How inadequate I feel to cherish you; it seems an awesome feat

My prayer continues, "LORD teach me how to be his helpmeet!"

For you I was created as God says at the beginning of time

Forever I am yours and you are mine

Heaven is filled with saints giving God praise

May we on earth give Him glory TOGETHER all our days

This week has been filled with baking, packing, teaching, and organizing.  We're getting ready to head to Alabama to spend Thanksgiving week with Luke's family.  There is always much to do when getting six people ready for a trip and this one is no exception.  I've begun packing, baked four loaves of yummy bread (two pumpkin and two chocolate coffee cake) but there is more to do.  This week also included an eye appointment, ballet class, AWANA, and Bible study as well as school.  It seems like things will not get done, but God shows His faithfulness each time I say, "I can't!".  He reminds me "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil 4:13) 

We're looking forward to this trip.  We'll get in late Friday night only to wake up early to run in the 5K Turkey Burner in Montgomery, AL. :)  Luke and I and Luke's sisters, Miriam and Jubilee, will be running in it.  It will be a lot of fun!  The rest of the week also promises good fellowship with Luke's family and friends of his family.  We are blessed to be a part of it all.

Yes, my loving, wonderful husband who opposes shopping except to buy the necessities of life is taking me out to dinner and then shopping for Christmas presents.  I realized we would be having a busy month and wanted to get the shopping done before the mad rush in December (although I do enjoy the day after Thanksgiving sales and all the chaos that goes with it!).  It has also been more enjoyable to shop with him for gifts for our children instead of talking to him about them and then going out and getting them myself.  He has very good insight into our children's likes and dislikes.  Many times I have thought a certain toy or project would be the BEST for our children only to have Luke disagree.  But when I've gone with his idea I've found out he's right! 

All this to say, I approached Luke with the idea of going out shopping and he agreed!  Now, don't think that the evening will be catered only to yours truly.  Luke picked the restaurant. :)

I will try and post our finds...at least some of them because who knows, maybe we're shopping for YOU!

It was 490 years ago today that Martin Luther nailed his 95 Thesis to the door of the Wittenberg Cathedral door.  Life has never been the same since!  Many after him were beaten, tortured, and killed, for what?  So we could have God's Word in our hands, in our language and learn that in His Word alone,by Christ alone, with His grace alone, through faith alone, for God's glory alone we can be saved!  Nothing in the world gives us that guarantee.  No person can tell us how good, how much to give God...because it will NEVER be enough!  Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection on the cross was the only solution to our sin plight.  When we accept that we are sinners and need His salvation we become His children.  We realize that without Christ we are doomed to hell. 

This truth puts into perspective why the reformers and other martyrs allowed themselves to suffer and die for the sake of Christ.  They had the Truth.  It had set them free spiritually.  They were no longer separated from God.  Why would they care in the least what men did to them on earth?  They were justified before God Almighty!  Sure, it hurt, was uncomfortable in the least, and alienated them from the world.  "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life?" (Mt 16:26a)  These men lived in that reality. 

So my question is: are we ready to do the same?  "Sure, you say!  I'm ready to die for the cause of Christ.  To lay down my life if need be, be tortured, beaten for God!"  In the extreme it seems to be easy to dedicate to a cause.  But when it comes to the every day facets of life, dedication is hard.  What about when a co-worker uses YOUR LORD's name in vain?  Do you stand up for Christ even though you might be marked as religious fanatic? (Luther was thought of as this!)  Or what if your neighbor believes there are many ways to God and that you should just tolerate everyone's beliefs?  Would you say nothing so as to be a "better witness" (Luther witnessed through his opposition!)  I'm not advocating going on the rampage, crusading against the evil in the world without regard for kindness and love.  But I am saying we shouldn't let situations God puts us in to proclaim the gospel slide by because of our pride and fear of man. 

Let us all remember the challenge of the Reformers and BE reformers in our own day!

Oh, the joys of being sick!  This one in particular has been interesting.  I was given it by Danielle, our sweet girl, last week.  She had it over the weekend and I developed symptoms around Monday.  Tuesday I was miserable with it but Wednesday was showing signs of getting over it.  By Thursday I thought I was home free and Friday seemed to be recovered.  Saturday I raced and felt pretty good in the morning.  But by afternoon I started showing signs of a relapse. Sunday morning I went to church, but by the afternoon I was wiped out with the cold, again!  I took a two hour nap, very unusual for me.  I am now currently up at 1:13am because I can't sleep from the cold, not the nap!

 In happier news, we've been enjoying pleasant weather.  On Saturday I took Alex shopping for a birthday present for his good buddy's birthday this Friday.  He was invited to sleepover at the boy's house.  Luke said it was great, I'm a little hesitant.  I think it is just because I want to be there to protect them and if they get scared.  I think Alex will do great, I'm just being a mommy!  It isn't just a job, it's engrained in me. :)

Alex has been enjoying an airplane drawing book.  He has learned how to draw many military planes as well as a space plane that will one day replace the space shuttle.  I am amazed at his talent with drawing. 

Danielle is in a children's choir at our church and is very dedicated to learning her songs.  She is also memorizing hymns. 

Zachariah has begun wearing an orange baseball cap every day and carries around a small red Gideon Bible everywhere.  His favorite color is orange, hence the hat and the Bible is just a gift from God.  It is so neat, amazing, magnificiant to see each of our children come to a realization of God, Jesus Christ, and His Word.  I just keep praying the conviction goes deeper to the point of repentance and salvation.

Nathaniel has not had an accident (on the potty) in a while!  Yeah! He likes to ask me if Alex can help him set up his wooden train set.  He really likes curiuos George and asks me to read his books to him.  He obviously listens when Zach learns his AWANA verses because I've heard Nate quote the verses along with Zach! 

Luke has been preparing for his presentation in December at the conference in San Diego.  He comes home with big poster size printouts of his poster board.  He explains it to the kids and they are just facinated.  I hope they don't miss us too much, especially Zach and Nate.  They don't understand the concept of time.  I want to make a calendar of things we will be doing each day so they can get a sense of how we spend our days and also so they can mark off each day we are gone.  Luke also had the cold this weekend, but has recovered today.  He doesn't seem to stay sick as long as the rest of us.  This is a good thing, since he's our provider and protector!  Praise God!

And me, just trying to take care of my family the best way God shows me how.  I am in a ladies' Bible study at church.  We are reading a new book out by Martha Peace called "Damsels in Distress".  It deals with the top topcis Martha has dealt with in counseling women.  Martha's the one who wrote "An Excellent Wife".  She's coming to our church at the end of November for a ladies' conference.

Well, I suppose I should sign off on this book I've written.  LORD willing I can get some sleep! 

Fall has arrived to Little Rock, AR.  We weren't sure if it would come or if we missed it. ;)  This morning we awoke to a cool crisp fall day with that wintery smell in the air.  This morning we celebrated with some oatmeal.  Later this morning I will surprise the kids with our first winter tea party of the season.  Sshhh! don't tell them! :)

This is my favorite season and one that I would like to be in Pennsylvania for.  The leaves turn brilliant colors in the North during fall.  I really enjoy the cool air and cozy feeling fall brings.  It just makes you want to curl up with a warm blanket, good book and cup of hot chocolate! 

Happy fall day to you all!

Last year on this same date I contemplated turning 30.  It seemed like such a big number to me.  I can remember when we first moved to Little Rock, meeting new people many of them in their 30's thinking, "Wow, they are so much older than we are."  Now I am on the verge of turning 31.  What I thought about life in my 30s is different than how it is.  I still "feel" young.  According to my grandmother who died this past summer, that feeling doesn't go away.  I thought I would be wiser when I got to be 30...now I just realize how much more there is for me to learn.  I have overcome, with the LORD's help some things in my life: weight, fear of teaching, loving someone more than yourself.  But by no means have I "made it" yet.  To some who read this they may think "yeah, 30 is old!" and to others "you haven't even begun!"  But it's where I'm at.  I think back over my life so far and I have been blessed.  I haven't had a perfect life, haven't been perfect, but Christ truly forgives, gives new life, and the hope of holiness through His wisdom and strength.  My reflection on my life has to come back to Him.  He truly is the "Giver of all good things" (James 1).  In Christ alone is my birthday, Happy.  Praise Him!

This afternoon the kids and I went to Walmart for a few items and then to the Damaged Freight Goods grocery store to buy some milk.  Milk has gotten to be so expensive lately ($4-5 a GALLON!)  that I've tried to buy it at Kroger when it is discounted (ie, close to expiration date) but it is hard to know when they mark the prices down.  Today I thought I'd go to the DFG store after Walmart to get milk.  I bought three 1/2 gallons for a $1!  We go through milk so fast in our house that buying it when the date has expired doesn't really matter.  It is amazing to me how much companies can sell milk for only to have the price slashed tremendously when it is close to the expiration date. 

It seems to be like that with most items in stores.  You can buy clothes right when they hit the hangers, or wait until the season is almost ended and get it for more than 50% off.  It makes me want to collaborate with Americans to say, wait until it is on sale, then the "regular" price will go down when companies realize people won't spend that much on an item. 

But on the flip side...I like hunting for a good deal!

Thank you, this has been "Michele on a soap box" for your information and entertainment for the day. :)

Today we met Luke at his work today for lunch.  He was working in LR's Rivermarket so we were able to take a walk on some paths near the Arkansas River.  It was a beautiful day to be outside.  We ate our lunch at some picnic tables and then the children were able to run around while Luke and I visited.  It was very relaxing.  This week has been somewhat busy, so it was nice to just sit and talk with Luke for a little while.

 Afterwards we went to Kroger and the Dollar Store.  Then we were home again where Danielle had her last class, English.   Now we've all had a snack and the younger kids will help me make peanut butter cookies for Luke while Danielle does her math 'home' work. ;)

 I don't know why, but lately I've been thinking a lot about our future; where we'll live, what plans God has for us.  I know He has it all figured out and that's the exciting part.  I'm still a little nervous about leaving our church family.  They've been a big source of security for me over the last 9 + years.  I've learned and grown and tried to be the woman God wants me to be as a Christian wife and mother.  The Spiritual mothers and sisters I have here are never to be forgotten or cease to have contact with no matter where I live.  There are so many godly people at BCLR, it is a huge blessing!!  It is hard to think there will be another church like ours, but I think that is one of the points God has for me to learn:  He is working in many other churches, not just BCLR.  I'm excited about the relatioships I will build with other women at our new church home.  Sometimes I get scared, I've never really liked change, but Luke and I are more and more convinced that God wants us to move North.  Knowing it is God's will makes it more and more exciting than scary.  So many details before then, though to work out.  Moving takes a lot of planning!

Ok, this has turned a little more introspective than I planned!

After returning from Kansas City we're back into our regular routine with school, church, AWANA, Bible studies, and ballet.

 Danielle's first ballet class was a lot of fun!  She looked like she belonged with that age group/level.  One friend from church is also in her class which makes it even more enjoyable for her.  She keeps talking about next week's lesson.  I took some pictures but will have to wait to ask Luke to post them!  In other Danielle news she started AWANA chums this week and loves it, too!  Her leader was my former boss at Family Council, Martha Adcock. 

 Alexander has been a Roman soldier the last couple of days.  He wears a play army hat that has a paper "feather" "plume" colored red taped to the top.  He has a sign on the library room door "Rome shop".  Yesterday the other three were playing "beach" (blankets out on the floor with little lawn chairs; a sun taped to the wall; table with flowers on it; they named it the Luau Lounge :) ).  Alex tried to convice them they needed  to take a trip to his city of Pompeii and go shopping there. :)  He's a 1st grader in Sparks and had a good time in AWANA this past Wednesday night.  He and Danielle are doing the same History, Abeka 3rd grade, for school.  Luke told me I didn't have to ask him all the questions on the test since he is in 1st grade.  I thought I would ask him, just to see what he learned and what he had trouble comprehending.  I told Luke not to worry about him- he scored a 91%!

Zachariah is a 4 year old Cubby.  The first week he chosen to take home Cubby bear.  He passes his days playing with Nate while the others are in school.  He is also learning to trace lines, rhyme words and match objects.  Currently he is wearing slippers he found in his room. :)  He joins us for Art, Bible and Music.  This week we made pictures using our thumb prints.  We colored them with markers and then stamped them on paper. (No, I didn't come up with this idea, my cousin did!)

Nathaniel is potty trained!  Praise God!  We didn't know how long it would take, but it was actually shorter than the others.  There is something to be said for waiting until after two years old, at least for us.  Nate likes to do everything his siblings do.  He participates with us in Art and Music and Bible.  He still really loves hugs and cuddles.  A couple of days ago it was raining and thundering.  He heard the thunder and said, "dat thunder mom"  I told him yes it was.  Then he said, "God did dat".  I again agreed with him.  It is neat to know when they've caught on to something you say!

 

 

Luke's paternal grandparents have been a blessing in our lives.  From the first time I met them on April 21, 1997 I have always felt loved and accepted by them.  On that first visit I also ate Pasties for the first time; a meal that has become a regular at our dinner table.  Grandpa and Grandma Lofgren are loving, giving, and a joy to be around.  Our recent trip to visit them in Overland Park, KS has been no exception.

 We made this journey to visit them in their new home at a retirement community partially because we haven't been to see them and partially because we knew the possiblity that they couldphysically not be on this earth for much longer.  This past week Grandpa had to go to the hospital again for infections.  So we headed up not entirely knowing what to expect since it had been 1 1/2 years since we saw them last.

On our first visit to see Grandpa we found him a little confused.  He asked Luke how he was related to Peter Lofgren, Luke's cousin.  But he began to become more talkative when we talked about Luke's dad.  We enjoyed spending time with Grandma Lofgren at Luke's aunt and uncle's home.  The children remember visiting Luke's grandparents at their previous home in Bella Vista, AR.  When Danielle was learning to talk and call people by name I had asked  Grandma what "great-grandma" was in Swahili (they had been missionaries in Africa for 28 years).  She told me it would be BibiMkuu and BabuMkuu; Bibi and Babu being Grandma and Grandpa, Mkuu meaning 'great'.  At first I wasn't sure if Danielle would be able to pronounce the names, but she did remarkably well with them and they stuck! 

Back to our visit!  Nate and Zach enjoyed Saturday evening "playing" Battleship with Grandma.  They would bring her the little pieces and she would put them on the battleship board much to their delight.  We ate Sunday evening meal also with her at Luke's aunt and uncle's home.  She said she enjoyed being around our children and being able to watch them play.  I'm glad they brought happiness to her. 

Today we picked her up to take her to see Grandpa around lunchtime.  Before we left she took us on a tour of her apartment.  It is a very nice size and has a homey feel.  They were able to bring many of their things from Bella Vista with them, so there are many things familiar around.  She especially liked to show our children some of her special things that she has collected from her years of travel around the world.  I am so glad our children know who their great-grandparents are!

We visited grandpa at the hospital after our tour.  He was especially alert and talkative this visit.  He asked us how our trip had been going and how our cars were doing (he remembered we drive Kia's!  Luke said the asking  about them was a guy thing :) ) Luke told him we were looking to move, LORD willing, to Erie, PA next Spring/Summer.  He remembered going to our wedding in Erie 9 1/2 years ago!  It was so nice to have spent our last visit with him this trip with him being more aware of things.  We know it is part of life to lose one's memory, so we are thankful to God to have our last visit before we leave go so well.

Grandma came back with us to the Rossell's for a cookout lunch.  She was pretty worn out from the weekend, so Luke took her home this afternoon. 

Godly heritage is from the LORD.  I feel God has been especially kind to have allowed me to be married into such a heritage!

Yesterday afternoon Luke's dad arrived to spend the evening and night with us on his way to visit his parents near Kansas City, KS.  I talked with our chidren earlier in the day about him coming, how long he would stay, and tried to remind them how they should act when visitors come.

Before he arrived we needed to do a quick run to the grocery store.  As we were driving there Zach (4yr old) told me he was going to be looking out for Grandpa's car.  He remembered it was white and so the next white car he saw he asked me if that was Grandpa's car.  I reminded him that Grandpa wouldn't be coming until a little later.  I don't know if Zach noticed...Grandpa didn't drive the white car he'd often driven before!

When he arrived all the children were excited to see him.  The boys promptly informed him of all their current interests, showed him their toys and got to be held and hugged alot.  Danielle entertained him with a mini-version of the recital she'd given our family last week. 

The afternoon and evening was filled with Grandpa playing checkers with Alex, teaching him some things about strategy (Alex is getting pretty good BTW!)  Nate enjoyed climbing on him while he played.  (I'm actually quite impressed he didn't get too distracted with this..I have a hard time doing two things at once!)  Luke and Grandpa also played a round of chess much to the boys' delighted interest. 

The night ended with a preview showing of Anna's most recent musical before the children headed off to bed.

Although the children were sad to see Grandpa go this morning, they will have these special memories of Grandpa's visit.

 (p.s., thank you to Grandma for the books.  Danielle's been enjoying them already!)