New Beginnings

I love the start of a new year. It's a new beginning, a clean slate. I usually start with a "purge session" where I attempt to make order of my world. I look into each closet and drawer and evaluate the items at hand. As I begin to let go of the "stuff" that clutters and cramps my surroundings, a sense of clarity comes over me. Now, there are those closets that are not as easy to purge. You know the ones! For whatever reason, it's harder to release what's inside. But once I do release them, a burden is lifted. There is room to breathe; it's then can I begin to organize and prioritize the things that are of value. It was in my closet two days ago, that I was impressed with what God wants to accomplish with my heart. He wants to purge the things that are not of Him or from Him. You see, I am carrying unnecessary burdens . Burdens that are cluttering my life...burdens that I have the option to release. For whatever reason, I hold on to them. He wants me to release them....purge them. I have areas in my life full of insecurities, pride, control, you name it. Those things need to go, I have no need for them! Like my closets, this will be a continual process-keeping those unnecessary items out of my life. The temptation will always be there..... to fall into my old ways. I will need to dismiss those urges and cling to "the one" who knows me best. My prayer for this year is that He would continue the work He has started in my life- cleaning out those dark places. I want to grow closer to Jesus each day, with my heart attitude reflecting Him. I am so thankful that my God doesn't treat me as my sin deserves. His mercies are new each day! Cheers.... to a new beginning!

Bumps in the Road

Those bumps in the road, circumstances that are out of my control, are a reminder........

"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken."

Psalm 62:5-6

Family Night Out

An evening out with the fam....dinner at Mellow Mushroom, a trip to the Fayetteville square, hot chocolate, Christmas music, and driving the long route home to take in the holiday decor. Just magical!!!! FYI.....Rosie hated Santa but loved his reindeer. I would have captured the "moment with Santa" but was informed it would cost me $5.00 to use my own personal camera. Ummm, no thanks!

Holiday Flavors

The Page girls love an excuse to bake and create some sweet treats!

Hague Training....Check!

Last night, Scott and I finally completed our last 2 hours of on-line Hague Training. ( Our adoption agency requires 8 hours of inter-country adoption training and 2 hours of specific-country training. ) Every little bit we can do helps in keeping our minds active in this waiting period. The average wait time for a child in our age bracket is 8 to 9 months. However, referrals seem to be slowing down due to the new travel laws. I am hopeful....we could get the phone call any day now. During this season, I am praying continually for a right PERSPECTIVE. I truly want to focus on the Baby in the manger while praying for our baby in ethiopia. Until then, my cup overflows with gratitude. I am so very thankful for my sweet hubby, precious girls, and the life I have been given.

# OCHO

On my mind..............

Double Digits!

Happy 10th birthday to my sweet Mary Ellen, otherwise known as "Meme" or "Love Lump." I can't believe we have been entrusted to raise such a precious jewel. She truly lives up to the meaning of her name...."Light of Mercy." I learn what it means to "love large" by watching her each day. Meme, you are beautiful inside and out. We are so proud of the young girl you have become and love what God is doing in you life. We love you more than you know! Happy birthday, love lump. May your love and devotion for the Lord grow stronger with each year.