So Blessed, I Can't Contain It- Two Forty-Six thru Two Fifty-One

"I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge- that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." 

Ephesians 3:16-21

Tuesday, March 15th

246) General overwhelming blessedness- Perhaps this seems a bit redundant calling my general feeling of blessedness as a blessing, but in the past few days I have had such an overwhelming sense of blessedness that I just could not ignore it as anything else. Recognizing how very blessed I am in my everyday, run-of-the-mill life has been an incredible blessing for me. My life may not be anything fabulous. Some might even think it was boring, but to me, it is perfect. The more I have counted my blessings, the more I have recognized the One who has blessed us, and that has brought me more joy than I could have ever imagined.


Wednesday, March 16th

247) Right decisions- In a society where traditional, conservative beliefs are often frowned upon and labeled as old-fashioned and narrow-minded, it is a blessing to see people recognize that there is power and joy in following the Lord's commands. So much so that when they see they are not in line with God's will, they will change their plans, without any delay, in order to get right with God.


Thursday, March 17th

248) Another day- There is so much uncertainty in this life and yet so often, we seem to take it for granted that we are not guaranteed another day. Movies like "The Bucket List" and songs like "Live Like You Were Dying" by Tim McGraw remind us that it is often not until old age or an unforeseen illness come upon us that we seriously look at our lives and recognize the blessing of each day and chose to live like each day is a gift. Today was a gift for me, my family and all those who are dear to us and living it out in that knowledge took the ordinary and made it extraordinary. "This is the day which the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24


Friday, March 18th

249) Nurses in the family- You know I turn to my mother and my sister alot with questions and I am certain that to an extent that is absolutely normal given my relationship with them. However I also know that I ask my mom and sister lots of medical questions because they are nurses, and I really don't want to worry unnecessarily but I also don't want to ignore something that might need to be addressed immediately. I know there are other sources I would be able to turn to if it were not for their medical knowledge, but I am so grateful for their knowledge and expertise and am thankful that they never tire of answering my questions.


Saturday, March 19th

250) A little time, a big surprise- Drew came home four hours earlier than I expected. Four hours may not sound like much but after all the time apart that we have just faced and looking at only about twenty four hours together, four hours suddenly becomes a huge amount of time, and with that an incredible, indescribable blessing.


Sunday, March 20th

251) Perspective- Lately I have become far more aware of the amount of space we have in our home. I don't think it feels small; in fact I have always said it was the perfect size. There was just the right amount of space for the furniture we had and therefore I felt no need to buy anything when we moved. However as our daughter gets bigger, she is acquiring more, particularly when it comes to toys. These toys all seem to be bigger in size and there just isn't room for all of them. (At least not in the way I would prefer.) So maybe I'm beginning to feel things are a little cluttered. Then I see all of these commercials for who knows what product, but no matter what the product, the individual or family always lives in this incredible, spacious house. Believe me, I have noticed how spacious they make the houses, at least lately I have. Today though, I realized something. Those commercials are offering something empty because if the cameras were to pull back, you would see that the spacious houses they are depicting only has three walls- if that, and if they are lucky, it may have a ceiling. I have been blessed with four walls for every room in our house and a very solid and sturdy roof which keeps the rain and snow out. So even if our rooms are getting a little more cluttered thanks to our daughter's toys, that isn't so bad.

Good Foundations: Two Thirty-Five Through Two Forty-Five

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all -- how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died-- more than that, who was raised to life-- is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written:

"For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."

 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." 

Romans 8: 31-39

Saturday, March 5th

235) Fear diminished- Most girls dream about their wedding and who they will marry, or so it seems. I never had too many opinions about my wedding until I actually had to plan it, but growing up, I did have one very particular opinion about the man I was going to marry (besides sharing my beliefs). I had no desire to marry a man in uniform (ie. police officer, firefighter, military), and my reasoning was very simple. I didn't want the worry and fears that went along with being the spouse of those brave men. Obviously my plans changed. However this is only because I realized that fears could not and should not dictate my life, and with the Lord's help, they generally don't. "Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." Isaiah 41:10 This applies to so much more than just Army life. God has strengthened me, supported me and helped me to step out on faith, without fear, so many times before, and I am certain that without Him I wouldn't have this wonderful, beautiful, fantastic life for which I am so grateful today- because I would have been too immobilized with fear somewhere along the way.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
Your perfect love is casting out fear
And even when I'm caught in the middle of the storms of this life
I won't turn back
I know you are near

And I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We'll live to know You here on the earth


And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?

Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me
(You Never Let Go- Matt Redman)


Sunday, March 6th

236) Choosing thankfulness- I could look at less than 72 hours as just a tease, reminding me of what I want more of but can't have at the moment, or I can be thankful for the time we have been given. Today I chose gratitude. It wasn't my first response and I must admit, it wasn't an easy choice. However I decided to do what I could with what I have been given instead of mourning something I cannot control or change. Even after two hundred and thirty-five blessings counted, gratitude does not always come naturally, but we always have the choice.


Monday, March 7th

237) Honesty with yourself- Sometimes you just have to admit your weaknesses and limitations, and sometimes the person who needs to hear them the most is yourself. Instead of walking away feeling defeated, I have always felt freer and relieved. Maybe I just expect too much from myself; I don't know, but a good dose of honesty never hurts.


Tuesday, March 8th


238) Doing the normal tasks- On days when you just have no desire to get out of bed but only want to pull the cover over your head and ignore what the day holds for you until tomorrow or the next day or even the next week (depending on the situation), the best thing you can do is get up and do the most basic and regular of your daily tasks. Don't aim for the stars. Take a shower; get dressed; go to the grocery store; dust; clean your floors; wash your dishes; take out the trash. It's amazing how a little of the ordinary can really help remind you that there is so much more out there, so much that you are capable of handling. "The man with the two talents also came. 'Master,' he said, 'you have entrusted me with two talents; see, I have gained two more.' His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" Matthew 25:22-23 Perhaps I am taking this a little out of context (I hope not), but I cannot help but think that there is nothing more basic that we have been entrusted with than the blessings of our family and home. If we are faithful in caring for those, perhaps we will be entrusted with even more for His kingdom, and that is a blessing indeed.

Wednesday, March 9th

239) She talks- ....and talks.... and talks..... and talks.... and talks..... and talks....... And for those of you who knew me as a toddler (and even now), you are probably thinking, "sounds like she takes after her mother." Yes, I know; our daughter takes after me. There are times, when she decides to choose one word or phrase and repeat it over and over for minutes on end, when I think I might go crazy, but I just remind myself how thankful I am that she is able to communicate with us so well already. This ability is something that I remember looking forward to when she was smaller and just cried and screamed when she needed or wanted something, and I am not about to be upset now that I got what I wished for. 

Thursday, March 10th

240) Regular Communication- Having good communication within a relationship is vital; so is regular communication. Over the years that I have known Drew, we have spent a fair share of time apart, both while we were dating and since we have been married. During those times of separation, we have been able to communicate in different ways to varying degrees. Take for instance the communication we had while he completed his Basics training for National Guard; his communication was almost completely restricted to written letters that I received about once every week. Whatever the means and regularity (a letter once a week, a phone call every night or every 3-4 nights), that regular contact and communication makes so much difference. Even if we only speak on the phone for five minutes and our conversation comprises little more than "Hi. How are you doing? Was it a good day? Anything interesting you can tell me about?" It's the most wonderful and stabilizing part of my week.

Friday, March 11th

241) Our Child's Understanding- When the full scope of our daughter's food allergies became clear, Drew and I were concerned about how she would deal with this if they lasted until she started going to parties or even school. There is no way she can eat the typical foods that most children eat or could share food at lunchtime, and we wondered how that might affect her or how many times she would come home with severe stomach and digestive problems because she decided to ignore or didn't realize there was something she shouldn't eat. In the end, we realized we could not shield her from those situations; even at home, it would be good for her to see that she does not always get to eat the same food as us, but the food she eats is yummy! So we started to explain that some food was her food and some food was Mommy/Daddy food and that Mommy/Daddy food would give her a bad owie in her belly. In the last week, she has started saying "owie" whenever I am eating, which just throws me for a loop because she hasn't fallen or done anything to get hurt. When she realizes I don't understand, she points to my food and says "owie eat," and I realized she is telling me that she cannot eat my food because it will give her an owie. Her allergies may not be life-threatening but knowing that she understands that concept so clearly that she can tell me without any prompting is so exciting and an incredible blessing to this mother.

Saturday, March 12th

242) Foundation on the Rock- I heard some news today, that if it were to come to fruition, could have some unpleasant affects on our family, and initially it shook me. I was upset at the thought of "what if?". Shortly thereafter though, I was reminded that our God is still in control, even if all that I heard and more does occur- God reigns. If I can trust and rely on that and I base everything on that foundation, I need not be shaken when I come upon scary, intimidating or disheartening circumstances (and they do seem to abound these days).  "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." Matthew 7:24-27

Sunday, March 13th

243) Daylight Savings- Usually the time change in the spring is the one I like the least, but I have been counting down the days this year. I wasn't disappointed when today came either. Our daughter wakes with the first early light, which means she is up before the true sunrise. She doesn't wake us up right away, for which I have been very thankful, but it means that over the past few weeks she has gotten very grumpy much earlier than normal and no amount of adjustments have corrected the situation properly. Today all was quiet until after 7 am. It was beautiful. Not only did she sleep later, but I could see the effects in her attitude all morning. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful!

244) A dark room- We have used a dark room as a tool when teaching our daughter how to sit still and be quiet during church services. However when we first started attending our church here in Albuquerque, I used the cry room that was provided; I quickly realized that didn't have the same effect and her training went backwards. Then we had to find a room that was (1) dark enough to make our daughter realize it was no fun to leave service and (2) not in use for children's worship during service. We finally located one a month or so ago, and I can tell you, the results have been nearly instantaneous. What a blessing!


Monday, March 14th

245) Our daughter's response to my headaches- When I was pregnant, one of my greatest worries was how would I handle taking proper care of an infant or a toddler and cope with the migraines that seem to plague me. Recently, our daughter has begun to answer the question for me in her own incredible way. I can tell her that mommy doesn't feel well and has an owie in her head, and she has responded so well. Her temperament, sweetness and comprehension have made the whole situation easier; something I would never have expected to have had with a child who is not even two yet.

Anticipation: Two Hundred Twelve thru Two Thirty-Four

"I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord. Oh, the joys of those who trust in the Lord, who have no confidence in the proud or in those who worship idols. O Lord my God, you have performed many wonders for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. You have no equal. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds, I would never come to the end of them." Psalms 40:1-5 (New Living Translation)

Saturday, February 12th

212) Vacuum Cleaner- After watching my vacuum cleaner take all the dirt from the last three rooms and spit it out onto the most recent carpet and/or rug I was vacuuming week after week, I talked to Drew about purchasing a new vacuum cleaner. This time, I wanted to do the research, invest a little more than we had previously, and get one that would hopefully last us for several years. We made the purchase today and then returned home to vacuum all the carpets. What a great feeling to have clean floors again and how wonderful to have a husband who understands the importance of a decent vacuum cleaner to his slightly obsessive-compulsive, clean-freak wife.


Sunday, February 13th

213) Obedience-  This morning our sermon was on Submitting in Love- not only to our spouses, but also, and more importantly- for all else comes from this- submitting to God in and because of love. One of the verses that was mentioned and discussed was John 14:15-17a  “If you love me, keep my commands.  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—  the Spirit of truth." (quoting) "If you love me, keep my (Jesus') commands." What a simple, straight-forward statement and yet, what a life-long challenge it is for us. It is a call to obedience out of love, is it not? As I thought about that verse, I recalled the times I chose independence, ease, personal pleasure, financial comfort, the "more accepted"/secular route, etc. over obedience to God's commands and leading in my life. In the end, it never worked out well. However when I trusted God and was obedient to His commands, I have never been let down. I am not saying that my obedience equals a life of wealth, prosperity and ease because that is not something we were ever promised in this world, but I have always been blessed and found joy in the end results, even the hard times. And so I am not surprised that quickly following on the heels of that Scripture, I found myself humming the song, Trust and Obey.  How truly appropriate - the words themselves a blessing to those who believe in Christ and follow His commands!


When we walk with the Lord
in the light of his word,
what a glory he sheds on our way!
While we do his good will,
he abides with us still,
and with all who will trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there's no other way
to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

Not a burden we bear,
not a sorrow we share,
but our toil he doth richly repay;
not a grief or a loss,
not a frown or a cross,
but is blest if we trust and obey. 


 Trust and obey, for there's no other way
to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

Then in fellowship sweet
we will sit at his feet,
or we'll walk by his side in the way;
what he says we will do,
where he sends we will go;
never fear, only trust and obey.


Trust and obey, for there's no other way
to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.
(Trust and Obey, John H Sammis)


Monday, February 14th

214) Our daughter's prayers- Recently our little girl has wanted to say her own prayers before her nap and bedtime. They are simple and pure. She thanks God for whatever comes to her mind, from Mommy and Daddy, to dipping foods, toys, laundry and baths. I love to hear her prayers, to hear what she thinks of to thank God for each afternoon and evening and at the same time, it is a reminder to me of just how abundant our blessings are.


Tuesday, February 15th

215) Sleep- Being well-rested is such a blessing. It's amazing how even just going on one hour less than your body requires/desires can affect your energy levels, brain functioning, and emotions. I personally know that sleep is essential to ward off migraines and keep me on my toes in order to keep up with our toddler, and yet I am also aware that there are those who struggle with sleep on a much more regular basis than I- people who suffer from sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia. I have known a few and I am only reminded all the more what a blessing each night of rest is in my life.


Wednesday, February 16th

216) Medicines- Ideally I prefer to deal with my migraines and other illnesses using as few medications as possible. However I am grateful that there are a multitude of medicinal options available to me, when I need them, so that I can function and be a good mother and wife and not just a sad sack.


Thursday, February 17th

217) Kissing owies- A month of two ago, I started to kiss our daughter's owies when she would fall or bump into something. She very quickly picked up on the gesture and has been returning the favor to me. I have struggled with headaches and migraines quite a bit since the new year began which means I have been telling our little girl that mommy's head has an owie. Without fail, she stops whatever she is doing, comes over and kisses my forehead. There is something so sweet, innocent and pure in her actions and you really can see that she has such faith within her that after that kiss my owie will be gone. It's beautiful to watch.


Friday, February 18th

218) An Assortment of Chicken Noodle Soups- For the past several days, I have been fighting off what I thought was just a head cold with a migraine thrown in just for fun. Last night things seemed to get a little worse and this morning I was down for the count. The smell of most foods has been turning my stomach and I have eaten very little except a few saltine crackers. This afternoon Drew came home with an assortment of chicken noodle soups, just for me. What a wonderful, sweet, loving gesture.


Saturday, February 19th

219) Breathing through my nose- I really don't think much about how I breath; it's just something I do. At night time though, breathing through my nose is wonderful. It keeps your lips from getting dried out and chapped as well as other uncomfortable side effects. Interesting how we don't think about these little functions until they are impaired, but I am thankful for all those little details that God planned out in advance that make our bodies work so well when they are healthy.


Sunday, February 20th

220) A four day weekend- I have been looking forward to this weekend as Drew had both Friday and Monday off for President's Day. It seems like he has been out of town for most of his holidays, so I was excited that he would be here for this one. Then not only was I sick this weekend, but our daughter ended up getting sick as well. Not much of a fun weekend for our family. However, I am very thankful that Drew had that four day weekend off. He has been so wonderful taking care of our daughter and me and allowing me to rest up so I can watch her when he returns to work. I have been so physically exhausted and unsteady from the illness that I cannot imagine how I would have made it through the past few days if he had not been here.


Monday, February 21st

221) Breathing, in general- Whatever I have had these past few days has settled into my lungs and I have had some crazy coughing fits. They have been severe enough that it has brought Drew running to check on me, and honestly a few have had me a little scared when my coughing has interrupted my breathing. I was always thankful when that next breath came. Breathing is such a natural, instinctual function for us, that the moment it becomes difficult, you are reminded just how fragile your life is and what a blessing every breath you take is.


Tuesday, February 22nd

222) Anticipation- When you are looking forward to an event of one kind or another, you become keenly aware of time. When I was younger, it seemed as though time just dragged by as I waited for the day, but as I have gotten older, I find that the anticipation of the event is exciting and helps the time pass. In fact, particularly when it comes to my family and when I will have the chance to visit with them again, I have become aware of the fact that even if the date is months off, just the knowledge and anticipation that I will be with them and see them again at such and such a time can make a world of difference.


Wednesday, February 23rd

223) A day long awaited- And with the culmination of the anticipation comes the excitement of the actual event.... my parents are in town!


Thursday, February 24th

224) A full house- I love having house guests. It really hasn't happened all that often, but I love it when they come, and tonight was especially fun. Not only were my parents with us, but my uncle, aunt and cousins came over. It is wonderful to watch my father with his brother and fun to watch our daughter toddle around after everyone. I love how laughter, joy and love filled the air.


Friday, February 25th


225) Christ is enough- As humans I think we like to know why and how, and I believe we are raised to expect there to always be an answer. Often there is and I do enjoy researching and seeking the answers. However when it comes to some questions- such as how did the universe get here- no matter what you believe, you will have to take it on faith. It is because of this reality that I am thankful that my faith is not dependent on my knowledge; it's not dependent on me at all. All I need to do is recognize that Christ is enough, has done all that is required and allow that to direct my life. In Christ, I place my faith, my hope, my life, my all.


Saturday, February 26th

226) A second car- As if owning one vehicle is not blessing enough, we own two. For many couples it seems like a necessity, and I am certain most of the time, we view it the same way. The reality is we are blessed to have the second car. It makes planning our days easier. Drew and I do not have to sit down the night before and map out his work schedule and my errand running for the next day. We don't have to worry about running into an emergency and finding yourself without a vehicle. And today, we were able to offer the use of the second car to my parents so they could spend a little extra time with my uncle and his family, instead of going home with us at our daughter's bedtime.


Sunday, February 27th

227) Tears- These may seem like an odd thing to call a blessing. Don't get me wrong; I have no desire to wallow in sadness. I don't enjoy the pain or the sorrow. However I also know that they are a part of this life and I am grateful that when they come there is a physical means of release for all the emotions that are building and welling up within me.


Monday, February 28th

228) Leftovers- I think leftovers get a bad rap, but I am looking forward to them this week. They are going to make my life so easy! Thanks to an abundance of leftovers after the family's visit, I don't even know if I will have to cook a dinner this week.


Tuesday, March 1st

Laundry-
It is not uncommon during prayer time for our daughter to thank God for laundry. She loves to help with the laundry. It seemed slightly odd to me at first, but then I thought about it some more and I realized just how blessed we are when it comes to laundry. I am not even sure I know where to begin. I suppose I can work backwards.

     229) I am thankful to own a washer and dryer, making laundry day so much easier and making those unexpected, immediate laundry needs so much less of a hassle.
     230) I am thankful for the invention of the electric/gas washer and dryer.  Can you imagine washing our clothes on a washing board or beating them on a rock? Just think of the time we save with our machines, whether personally owned or at a laundromat.
     231) I am thankful that we have clothes to wash. Not only has the Lord provided for our needs in this area, we have an abundance.


Wednesday, March 2nd

232) My Alma Mater- I was looking through some photos from Johnson Bible College's 2011 Homecoming and I was reminded of just how thankful I am for all that I learned while I was in school there. It has been nearly six years since I graduated from Johnson, and I would be lying if I said that I remembered all the little details I had learned nor have I ever worked in a field directly related to either of the majors I studied while at Johnson. However, the time, money and effort was well worth it. I met so many wonderful, amazing people while I was there- students, faculty and staff- and learned many important life lessons as well as so many important broader lessons from my classes that have carried me through my various jobs and my every day life. I am so grateful that I was led to Johnson ten years ago when I graduated high school, and I am thankful for all of those who have helped to see that she has continued on, steady and true to her calling, for all these years.


Thursday, March 3rd

233) Giving second chances- I believe I have already mentioned that I am thankful for the second, third and fourth chances I have been given, but I also am thankful for those times I chose to give a second chance to someone else. The blessings go both ways.


Friday, March 4th

234) A good listener- Drew is a good listener. I know that I can go to him if I need to vent, sort through my thoughts and feelings or figure out a dilemma, and typically he will listen first. I know some men like to dive right in and fix things when you come to them with a situation, but as we women know, that isn't always what we are looking for. I am very grateful that Drew is such a wonderful listener, and yet, is also so capable at moving into action when the situation calls for it.