a dash of parsley

What I've Been Busy With!!

2012-01-25T15:26:00.003-07:00

I can't believe it's been since Thanksgiving since I've posted. We had a busy Christmas season and then spent a few weeks resting and reflecting on last year and what is ahead of us for this one.

We are cautiously excited...we have some different things in store for this year. I won't go into detail with all of those now. I will just say we are being challenged and stretched, but it is all very good and all for His glory.

I do have one thing I want to share with you now, though. If you've been around here for a while, you may remember that I had an incredible opportunity to go to Uganda, East Africa last summer. You can read the first post here. There are several in a row, so feel free to spend some time in last summer's posts...

I came home from that trip different. I knew that I had to go back. A piece of my heart is in Africa. I think it's always been there, but it is undeniable now. I know that I will spend more time there and, Lord willing, make a lasting impact on some of the people there.

My husband, Brad, is the worship pastor here at our church in Colorado Springs. He has had a desire to take our choir on a trip for several years. That desire, combined with my passion for Africa and contacts in Uganda, has led us to plan a trip for this summer.

We will be leading a team of 20-30 and we are also going to take our 2 oldest children, Caleb and Emma. We are all so excited....it's kind of all we talk about around here right now!

We will be working with Christian Life Ministries and a couple of other churches in Lira, Kampala and Seeta, Uganda. We will be visiting 2 orphanages where we will help build a perimeter fence and spend time with the orphans and orphan moms who work there. We will also visit a Compassion center, the largest slum area in Kampala and a village where over 200 people were killed by Joseph Kony's Lord's Resistance Army several years ago (although I assure you that we won't be going into a current war zone).

Can I ask that you pray with us and for us? Pray for the people of Uganda and for our team. We know the power of prayer and we believe that it is absolutely crucial as we are embarking on this trip.

Another way that you can help is through financial support. We need to raise $6,600 as a family for the 4 of us to go. That seems like such a large number but every bit adds up, even $10 or $25 will help so much.

There are a few ways you can give. You can click on that "donate" button over there to the right to pay through paypal. Paypal charges me a small fee for every transaction so not all of that goes directly to our trip, but after I pay the fee the rest of it will go directly to our Uganda fund.

Another way is by clicking here. This will take you to the New Life Church website. You can click on the "give" tab and then follow the instructions. All of this money goes directly to our trip and your gift is tax deductible. You will be asked to create an account but you won't be added to any mailing lists. This information is so that you can receive your tax statement next year.

If you'd prefer to send a check through the mail, you can contact me through email and I will give you more information on how to do that.

I can't wait to give you more details as we get closer to our trip! We are all very excited and thankful that we get to be a part of something so amazing!

A Different Thanksgiving

2011-11-29T05:49:00.005-07:00

We had a great Thanksgiving week.

The kids and Brad had the whole week off!

Paige and I went on a girls-overnight getaway. It was fun to have some one on one time with her. She chose to go to Build a Bear workshop and eat at Rosie's Diner. She was very excited about staying in a hotel (ok, so was I!) and swimming in the pool. She's such a sweet, fun-loving girl.

The next night Caleb had a few friends over for his first ever sleepover (I have been informed that it is never a slumber party with boys) to celebrate his birthday. Which was Oct 5th. Better late than never, right? They had so much fun and weren't near the trouble I thought they might be. I kept them fed and they were happy. Boys are so easy sometimes.

I spent 6 hours at the hair salon. To get this.

I really like it. It's so different for me, so it's taken some getting used to. Brad still thinks it's too dark (it's fading, which it's supposed to do). I tweeted a pic of it yesterday and didn't get much response. Maybe everyone agrees with Brad. Maybe no one cares either way.

We used paper plates for Thanksgiving. It was almost physically painful for me to forgo a pretty tablesetting. I made a pretty centerpiece and decided to go with it. I was so glad I did. I realized that I am the host and the host sets the tone for the day. I was relaxed and so was everyone else. And clean up was a breeze.

We set up our Christmas tree on Friday. The kids seemed more anxious than ever to help. It's a slow process which led to some frustrations. In the end we have a pretty tree and happy kids. We finished the night with our annual watching of "Elf". I love laughing with my family.

Brad's dad came in for the weekend. I always find comfort in having family stay with us. This time was no different.

We went to see the Muppets! So funny. You should go. And go with some friends who remember watching them as a kid. Because your kids won't.

Meh-nah Meh-nah.

I didn't take many pictures (Emma did, so if there are some amazing ones I'll be sure to share. That's if I can ever find my camera) I was in my pjs most of the week, so I thought I would spare you the evidence *wink*. I was also really deliberate about slooooowing down and not stressing out. That meant things weren't always pretty or put together.

And I was just kinda lazy and didn't feel like taking pictures. But I did spend good, quality time with these precious people who are my family and friends.

It was a truly thankful, Thanksgiving.

God gave me...

2011-11-07T15:19:00.002-07:00

a husband who is more gracious, patient, talented and funny...

one son who is smarter...

one daughter who is more organized...

one daughter who is more daring...

one daughter who is more affectionate...

one son who is more outgoing...

than me. If I could combine all of their strengths and add them to me, I'd be perfect!

But, I guess that's one of the blessings of a family. I have so much to learn and every day God gives me gentle, loving glimpses of areas I lack.

I am in awe of how He gives each of us different, beautiful pieces of His perfect Self.

At least I never get bored with myself (annoyed, yes. But never bored.)...there's always something to be working on!

I'm even more thankful for these amazing people that I get to call my family.

It's like...

2011-11-02T07:13:00.005-06:00

standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon.

The breeze in my face.

Toes dangling off the edge.

There's a large safety net. Invisible, but definitely there.

It's scary and exciting, but there's no real danger.

Only adventure and anticipation of the unknown.

I'm just waiting for the cue to jump. The timing has to be right.

Waiting for direction. A jump in the wrong direction could be disastrous.

It happens through my quiet time with the Lord. These inklings that something is on the horizon. Then through the words of a friend. And another. And another. Then through an acquaintance. This gentle prodding to move.

Sometimes we're walking blind. But the key is to move.

And then to wait when necessary. The way a child waits to cross the street. Wait for a clear path and then move when told to.

I'm so thankful I have a hand to hold, to direct me and guide me.

image

Rules for Dads of Daughters

2011-10-27T06:36:00.004-06:00

I'm up early this morning (as I usually am).

I noticed the light coming from beneath the door of my bedroom, meaning Brad is awake too. Then, I see my Emma sleepily walk to our bedroom door, open it and walk in to him.

I love that she has no hesitation. She knows she can approach her daddy and he is available to her. He is a good daddy.

She comes out of the bedroom and tells me he's going to teach her how to play chess. This morning. While it's still dark outside. Before she has her first chess club meeting at school today.

He is there for her. Her strong daddy who knows everything and can do anything (we'll enjoy this while she still think it *wink*). There aren't many things that warm my heart more than watching the man I love love our children.

I found this on pinterest this morning.

I read it through teary eyes.

Good reminders and sweet thoughts.

You can find the original post here.

photo 1

photo 2

I Shouldn't Cry Over Spilled Milk

2011-10-25T09:30:00.004-06:00

but I really want to sometimes.

We have on average 5-6 mornings a week when we sit down for breakfast as a family (Sundays we eat and go to church in shifts depending on who's serving that day) and I think 3-4 out of 6 days someone spills their milk/cereal/drink/yogurt. This week we're 2 for 2 so far.

Our mornings can be chaotic...someone can't find socks, didn't finish homework the night before, is out of lunch money, throws a fit at the table, needs a paper signed, needs a pumpkin/costume/stuffed animal, needs some coaching on their attitude...

I know I should prepare for school mornings the night before. Sometimes I do. Sometimes I'm too tired or I was out late with people or I forgot what we needed or I just...didn't.

I don't know why I expect things to go perfectly. And that's really what it comes down to. My expectations. I wake up early, pray for the atmosphere of our home, for our attitudes to be right, our motives pure. Then I expect my prayers to work like magic and thwart off any arguments, stresses, dirty looks, last minute somethings, accidental spills. I am actually thrown off when we don't have a peaceful morning full of worship and scripture and hugs and lots of love.

Well, the love is always there. But sometimes I have to stop and breathe to give it the attention it deserves.

Life is life. We live in a fallen world with all it's irritable imperfections.

And I have to remind myself that my kids are in training...

Train up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 22:6

Are there areas in which I'm still being trained? Yes, of course. So, why do I expect that if I've corrected the same poor behavior twice...three times...17 times my child will never struggle with that issue again?

It's all about expectations and seeing these things as normal life, rather than as surprising disruptions to the perfection I long for and envision.

Tomorrow we will do it all again. There is joy to be found in the hashing it out, in the going the extra mile, in the diving into these incredible relationships the Lord has blessed me with. I will choose to lean into the struggle and maybe see how God is training *me* through these beautiful, sometimes hectic, mornings...

image

What's Working For Us...

2011-10-19T08:48:00.003-06:00

I found this method for memorizing scripture last spring.

Memorizing scripture allows it to invade your heart, your thought processes. It allows God's Word to become ingrained in your actions.

Teach me your decrees, O Lord;

I will keep them to the end.

Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions;

I will put them into practice with all my heart.

Make me walk along the path of your commands,

for that is where my happiness is found.

~Psalm 119:33-35

We have been at it for 6ish months now. And it's working!

We work on them at the breakfast table. Some come quickly, some take more time. And it's all okay because we are memorizing scripture!

You can read all the details here.

Have you found a good system for scripture memory?

I Believe In Miracles

2011-10-17T08:25:00.005-06:00

I really do. I see them happen everyday. When I respond in patience when I'm feeling impatient. When one of my children shares a toy in spite of human selfishness. I wake every morning excited to be married to the man next to me while divorce and infidelity happen all around us.

Our son Caleb was hospitalized a couple of weeks ago. He was having all the symptoms of asthma. He's never struggled with asthma before, but he does have allergies and I have allergy-induced asthma. So, I guess, none of us were overly shocked by his symptoms. We were, however, surprised by the severity of this sudden attack.

I was on the verge of tears the whole time he was in the hospital. It was emotional to see my son struggle to breathe. It was hard to see him with an oxygen tube in his nose. The hardest part was hearing about his 'asthma care plan' and realizing he may struggle with asthma the rest of his life.

He was discharged from the hospital after 2 nights with several inhalers, prescriptions and instructions for his school nurse and teachers.

Two days after we came home, Caleb participated in a worship night at church. We were so proud of him and thankful to be out of the hospital!

(warning: obnoxious mom-scream at the end!)

That next week was full of doctors visits, talks with the nurse and charting his oxygen levels. This was not something we wanted, or felt comfortable with. I kept hoping it would just go away.

That next weekend, I went to Women of Faith in Denver with some friends from church. I was feeling really run down, emotionally exhausted and on the verge of a cold. My throat had been hurting for days and I considered staying home. A good friend encouraged me to go, for many reasons. One reason being rest.

On the second day of the conference, the worship team was singing "Healer". I could barely sing through my emotions. I felt very clearly that I was to ask God for healing. Healing for my sore throat and healing for Caleb's asthma.

Sometimes I struggle with asking God for things. I would way rather just be thankful and enjoy all the things He's already given. I don't ever want to forget what He's rescued me from or lose perspective of how blessed I really am. Why should I ask for more?

But here I was, knowing that He was gently prodding me to ask. So, I did.

The request for my sore throat came easily. It's just a sore throat. It could easily go away on it's own. If God chose not to heal my sore throat, it wouldn't be THAT big of a deal. I felt I could pray this prayer easily and hold the hope of a miracle loosely.

The prayer for Caleb was much harder. What if I prayed and he wasn't healed? Would I have to struggle with questions and doubt in God's power to heal? Do I REALLY believe He has the power to heal? Do I REALLY believe He cares enough about things like asthma when there are so many other, worse, diseases and problems in this fallen world?

I spoke the words. I wish I could tell you I spoke them with confidence and strong faith. But, I am human and imperfect. I spoke them audibly through trembling hands and unsure heart. I want Caleb's healing so desperately and I am so thankful for a God who knows this. Who knows me. And loves me and is faithful in the midst of my weakness.

That night as all the ladies were dispersing to their own cars, a friend asked if I was scheduled for the worship team the next morning. I told her yes...and then realized my throat wasn't hurting anymore! I started crying and explained to her that I had asked for God to heal my throat. We prayed together and thanked God for my healing. However, I didn't tell her about part two of my prayer.

I told Brad that night about the prayer I prayed. He had been praying this prayer for a week already and told me he had confidence that God would touch Caleb's body. He followed by telling me Caleb hadn't had any asthma symptoms all weekend. I still had my doubts and we agreed we should continue on the doctor's orders until his follow up visit.

He had his visit a week ago and was cleared for all activity and taken off of all his meds. It has been two weeks now since he's had any problems breathing.

I have absolute confidence that God healed him!!

God does miracles! Today! In me, in our family...in you!

As I reflect on this experience, I know that God was challenging me. Challenging me in my faith. Challenging me in my trust in Him. Do I really believe He is Who He says He is? Do I really believe He'll do what He says He'll do?

I know that many times we ask for a miracle and we may not see the evidence of His answer. I know that not everyone gets healed. But are we willing to go on the journey? Are we willing to put our prayers out there and trust God with the outcome, whether or not it's our desired one? God is more interested in the condition of our heart than in the healing. We are to approach Him with confidence and faith.

What are you asking for today?

On Relationships

2011-10-13T06:51:00.002-06:00

I'm reading "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp (for the second time. This time with an amazing group of ladies from our choir. It's a must-read, in my opinion).

This last week we read and discussed God's grace and how it applies to our relationships. I am in my 30s and I am still learning so much in this area! I went through the typical, painful relationships of junior high and high school and then had one or two close friends during my college years. Then I got married and, for years really, my husband and my kids were the only ones close.

Now, here I am, a grown woman, and I feel like I'm having to learn how to be a friend all over again in many ways. Having an amazing, healthy husband has been a huge benefit to me...he has taught me so much about how to be healthy in a relationship, whether it's friendship, marriage, or child to parent. If only I could put those lessons learned to use all the time. *wink*

Here's a few things I know...and am still preaching to myself...

Don't place unrealistic expectations on the other person. Don't expect them to be your one and only, bestie, sole confidant. A healthy person has a few, trusted people in whom they can place trust. Don't expect your husband/wife to fill the void a same-sex friend should. Likewise, don't confide all your marital problems to your best friend and expect her help. Let your kids be kids...they are not perfect and they are not your best friend. Evaluate each relationship for what it is and let it be that.

Communication is key. Don't expect them to read your mind. Say what you need to say with love. Start sentences with "I" rather than "You". And no name-calling. Ever. Remember that those words don't go back where they came from, even after apologies. Words stick. Let them be healthy and life-giving.

Be the first to say I'm sorry and quick to forgive. Ouch. This one is so hard for me! A little humility goes a long way. Don't let stubborn pride come between you and those you love.

Be the kind of friend, spouse, child, parent that you want to have. If you wish someone would call out of the blue to see how you're doing, do that for someone. If you wish your spouse would hold your hand spontaneously, reach for his or her hand. If you hope people are praying for you, pray for them. If you wish your children were more attentive to your instructions, be more attentive to them. This doesn't guarantee your desired outcome right away, but it protects your heart and helps you to invest in those around you. People will show love when they are loved.

Observe the 10 year rule. Have a friend who is 10 years older than you. You will be amazed at the comfort that comes from having a friend who's been there. Have a friend who is 10 years younger than you. You will laugh more and see the world in a different way.

Let it breathe and be what it is. There are not many things more frustrating than trying to make someone into something they're not. If he's not ready to commit, he may not be your husband. If she seems unwilling to spend time with you, she may not have time to invest in your relationship. If that family member hurts you over and over, you may need some space. If your 3 year old won't potty train, remember that we all get it eventually...wait, maybe that's another post...

Remember that Jesus is the only perfect One around. He really is the best friend who will never hurt you. He always has the best intentions and will never take advantage of you. Even better...being friends with Him guarantees that you will be a better spouse, parent, child, friend.

The Messy Side of Ministry

2011-10-05T04:04:00.004-06:00

"Sure, have her come over"...I almost regret the words as soon as they leave me.

The house is a mess. I'm in my mom uniform, not near the cleaner, more put together me that walks through the doors on Sunday. It's most likely pizza for dinner. And I'm tired.

Sometimes it's all I can do to keep it together around here...and barely at that. With a husband who continually gives and 5 young children who giggle and run and fall and cry and have an amazing ability to turn my daytime neatness into joyful chaos within 10 minutes of after school fun.

The walls of this house are comfort to me. It is our sanctuary. Not a quiet one, but a safe one. A place where life is messy and loving and forgiving.

I have perfected the art of protecting our time. Early in our marriage I fought hard for that privacy, that desire to have time to ourselves. The pressures of ministry can be strong, I had heard. I took on the role of defender of our schedule...partly out of wisdom, partly out of fear.

It is important to be wise with our time. Our children find safety in family time, in undivided attention from us. We laugh and cry and argue and make up and we love and hug and tickle and play games and we are here.

And hasn't He created all of this in us so that we can share it? To not only tell of the fun, of the unconditional, sometimes hard, love that happens within these walls? Could it be that some of the most real, most powerful ministry happens here?

For me, it is the harder, more personal side of what we do. To let people in. To let them see the mess, the imperfections. To not only be transparent, but to be vulnerable.

But He sees and He knows and He takes my weaknesses and turns them into something beautiful.

So she comes. And we talk. And she sees messy bedrooms, evidence of a rushed morning. She observes bickering and hugs, scrapes and kisses. We laugh over coffee. It is stretching for me and if she knows she doesn't say. I see the connection spark in her eye, the longing for friendship in a new city.

And I'm thankful. Thankful for a God who covers for me. Who desires willingness over perfection. A God who uses me to touch another life.

And transforms mine at the same time.

Image 3

There is Nothing

2011-10-04T06:28:00.003-06:00

I had a great weekend at Women of Faith. I learned a lot, made new friends and came home with renewed vision and excitement for what God holds for me and our family.

One of the things I recommitted to is waking early. I try to do this most of the time, but with the craziness of life I've been, well, tired.

Sunday night I set my alarm (which I hate doing) so I could wake early and have some quiet, early morning time to read and pray. And drink coffee, of course.

The alarm went off and I had a great, quiet hour. Then, the rest of the day happened.

I strained my neck, resulting in a lot of pain. I fought with my husband. I was too hard on my kids. My littles had meltdowns all. day. long. I didn't get near enough done. I bailed on 2 opportunities to catch up with friends.

Ugh. It was a rough one. By last night, the dust had settled. I went to bed at peace, but exhausted.

I am very aware that there is an enemy who HATES that I'm waking early. And he will try to discourage me from doing it. But none of this changes who I am or who I serve. I am the child of an amazing, merciful God who has enough grace to cover my 'ugh' days.

So, I woke early again today. I had this song going through my head...

I'm absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us. Rom 8:39

Even in the Midst

2011-10-03T18:29:00.005-06:00

We've had a crazy couple of months...

We started school.

And went on vacation.

Then our basement flooded (again!).

And Caleb was hospitalized.

(crazy hair)

Then Caleb came home.

And then I went to Women of Faith!

We are all home now. Caleb is doing better. The basement is bare, a slow process.

But I'm realizing that even in the midst of craziness, putting my thoughts to paper (or, um, keyboard) is important.

You may not necessarily need to hear it, or read it (although I hope it's nice for you *wink*). But I need to write it.

So here I am, I'm back!

I'll start us off slowly...this jumped out at me this morning...

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6,7

Aaaahhhh....

How we pass the time while Daddy's gone...

2011-08-04T10:22:00.006-06:00

Stretching

2011-07-27T07:21:00.002-06:00

hurts sometimes.

Why is it so hard for me to trust? Why do I feel like I have to have every. single. thing. figured out?

"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."

Proverbs 19:21

This seems to be the theme of my life these days. And the crazy thing is that I LOVE that it's His purpose that prevails. I LOVE that I don't have to figure it all out.

Or do I? If I say I trust Him, that I LOVE His plans...why is it hard to surrender and rest in it?

I've been going to yoga for a few months now. When we start a challenging position, it hurts. Then I breathe and tell myself to relax. It's amazing how my muscles respond and it no longer HURTS. It is still what they call *uncomfortable* but not as painful.

The stretching of my faith is the same. At first it HURTS. I fight it and I can't relax. Then I breathe and surrender. I can find rest in the stretching. I may still be uncomfortable, but not in pain.

Lord, help me to trust. To relax. To breathe. Thank you for holding it all together.

A Month Later...{Uganda Memories}

2011-07-18T07:00:00.016-06:00

I've been home for about a month now. Some of my take-aways from Uganda...

Jesus loves me (this I know)...He loves surprising me. He loves showing off His creation.

We spent a day at the headwaters of the Nile River.

I was in awe the entire day. The fact that I (Andrea, mother of 5, homemaker, wife-who-tends-to-stand-in-the-background...THAT I) was standing on the banks of the River Nile, the river Moses floated on...and the fact that I didn't even KNOW I was going until a month before...well, it all just blows my mind.

He loves His people...

Even when we're struggling. Even when things like poverty and war and heartache happen. He loves us and He is with us. And there is JOY and PEACE to be found even in these strong, courageous people (children!) who have experienced these things first hand.

I want to be a good mom.

Farida told me that she's never known the love of a mother. And she hasn't. I feel there are many children who know their mother and still don't know the LOVE of a mother. I want to be present and loving and giving. I don't want to only provide for the needs of my children. I want to live each day, as their mother, to the full. I want them to grow and KNOW that they are loved and wanted and cherished.

I want to be a good steward of what I have. There are many days when I begrudgingly do my housework. I loathe scrubbing toilets and mopping. The women that I met in Uganda work hard (and mop with a rag!). They don't have many belongings, but they take pride in what little they do have. Instead of grumbling as I work, may I be thankful for my blessings...and be thankful for a toilet to sit on!

Life with Jesus is exciting! And adventurous! If I've learned anything, it's that anything can happen at any time. I can have my plans, but God is the One who directs my steps. May I be pliable and flexible enough to allow for His plan over mine. He really does know me best and He knows what's best for me. There is freedom and peace in surrendering to His plan.

I have fallen in love with Uganda (just thought I'd say it...as if the bazillion posts about it didn't let you know) and the wonderful people I met while there. I pray that I can go back someday. I would love to go with Brad and with my kids. But, as I'm learning...only God knows if and when and how...

Desire {Uganda Memories}

2011-07-13T06:00:00.001-06:00

aka "Desiah"

The first time I saw this adorable little boy, he was furiously banging a broken stapler with a rock, trying to make it stick together as a make-shift truck. He reminded me so much of my little Micah...I was instantly drawn to him.

When he looked up at me, I bent down and opened my arms to him. He smiled big and ran to me. He motioned that he wanted to see a tree. I took him over and he began to giggle nervously. Before I knew it, he was slapping me...half laughing. I started laughing too and then decided to let him down when it started to hurt! It was such a strange interaction...but he definitely left an impression on me!

I saw him the next day standing next to a car. I smiled at him and he smiled back. I started chasing him around the car...

We were pretty attached after that.

I tried to see him every day. In a way, it was soothing for me to hold him and play with him. I was missing my kids and he was one of the only young-enough-to-be-held kids at the orphanage.

He followed me around as I did work around the orphanage, painting mostly. I gave him a ball and a silly band. One day, I brought a couple of empty water bottles out to the school yard so he and his friend could play with the sand.

I would go home very dirty and dusty most nights, from having held him on my lap. He liked to play with my braids and he would cry when I left.

His situation is unique...his "house mom" is also his birth mom. This fact helped me resist the temptation to stick him in my suitcase. I sure thought about it though! (kidding!...kinda) He's just so cute!

My last night there, I held him in my lap and shared popcorn with him. I left him at his house with half a bag, so he was all smiles. I smiled back, even though my heart was aching.

Since I've been home, I've seen pictures from some of the other teams (our team partnered with a team of doctors) and many include him. He is such a cute, fun, energetic boy. I know I'm not the only one who thought he was pretty great!

Marvin {Uganda Memories}

2011-07-11T06:00:00.001-06:00

I met Marvin one day on the school yard while I was taking pictures. (The kids LOVE having their pictures taken. It was one of the ways I met many of them. They don't have any mirrors, so they love to see themselves on the camera!) He didn't say anything, he just quietly slipped his hand into mine. He went with me wherever I went that day.

When I asked him his name he was so soft spoken that I couldn't understand him, so I had one of the other children ask him. I found that none of the kids I had connected with knew him. He is so quiet and shy and he tends to observe the other kids, rather than engage.

After a while, he asked if I would come to his house. (The kids live in concrete homes. Each home has 3 bedrooms and a living area. 1 bedroom is for the "house mom" and the other 2 for kids, 6 kids in each room. Some of the houses have furniture and use the living area as a dining room or living room. The kids especially like to show off their beds, a bunk bed 3 beds high with a mosquito net over it.)

When we reached his house, his house mom was sitting on the porch, weaving a mat and listening to her radio. I introduced myself and quickly realized that she didn't speak any English. I tried my best to explain that Marvin had invited me over. She got up quickly and motioned for me to come inside. I'm not sure if there wasn't any electricity, or if she just didn't have her light on, but it was very dark inside. Her only piece of furniture in the living area was a school bench. She pulled it out from the wall and motioned for me to sit. Then she knelt at the other side. I was so overwhelmed by her hospitality and desire to make me comfortable. We tried to talk for a minute or two and ended up laughing about the fact that we couldn't communicate.

Marvin came inside and showed me his room. By then, some of his older "brothers" had come home. They were able to interpret for me. It was getting dark and time for me to go home. I asked the older boy if he could ask Marvin if it was okay if I left. Marvin said no. We all laughed about that. I sat on the porch for a few minutes and talked with his mom, through the interpretation of the older boy. Then I went home.

My relationship with Marvin was sweet and simple. He would find me and hold my hand as I visited with some of the other kids. One day I brought him some bubbles. He was so happy and I loved watching him play.

Another day I took him to my house, away from the other children, and gave him a ball. We bounced it back and forth on the porch of the house for a long time.

I will always remember this sweet boy with the quiet disposition. The hospitality I experienced at his house is something I will cherish forever.

Farida & Hanifah {Uganda Memories}

2011-06-27T08:05:00.013-06:00

Farida was the first child I met at Adventure Village, the orphanage of Christian Life Ministries where our team stayed, played and served for two weeks.

Farida is 13 and she and her sister, Hanifah are orphans. Orphans caused by death, poverty and abandonment.

My first few days getting to know her, we spent time jumping rope, painting toenails, blowing bubbles and singing songs.

She was very excited and proud to show me her bed

and especially her school work.

She loves school and takes pride in working hard so that she can become a doctor. If she continues to work hard and get good grades, she will have an opportunity to attend one of the most prestigious boarding schools in east Africa...an opportunity made possible through Christian Life Ministries.

One evening, as we were sitting on her porch talking about America, the girls asked me what I do for work. I told them that I am a mom, that I stay at home with my children while my husband works. Farida said "I have never known the love of a mother."

This was so hard to hear. It was really difficult to keep from grabbing her and holding her and crying with her. However I had learned through my interactions with her that she is not an emotional or touchy child, which I'm sure is a result of years of disappointment and hurt.

I took the opportunity to ask her how she had come to the orphanage. What happened to her parents? Does she remember them? She and her sister, through their limited English, told me of how their father had died when they were young. Their mother was unable to care for them due to poverty so she left them with their grandmother. I asked Farida if she remembers her mother. She smiled and said no, but that she would surely recognize her if she ever saw her because she had seen a picture. She then told me of how her grandmother wasn't able to send her to school and, upon hearing of education opportunities through Adventure Village, brought her to the orphanage.

I asked her if her grandmother ever visits or writes and she said no. Hanifah, Farida's sister, said she wants to get an education so that she can find her mother and then help other children find their parents.

As heartbreaking as this story is, these girls are healthy. They are fed three meals a day. They have access to medical attention and medication if they need it. They are getting an education. Most importantly, they are being taught scripture and about God's love. They participate in worship times. They smile with an inner joy...a joy that maybe only comes through seeing, knowing God's faithfulness in hardship and hurt. These girls are strong and courageous. I learned a lot during my time with them.

During these two weeks, I was deliberate with my words. I made sure to tell them that they are beautiful, smart, strong. I told them God loves them and that He is faithful...always. He sees them and knows their pain. I told them to study hard in school, to persevere when things are hard. I wanted to make sure that they know someone cares for them and loves them. They have God, they have their Adventure Village Family and now they have me too.

My last night there, we sat together and talked. We took pictures. We exchanged letters. When it was time to say goodbye, we hugged (which I felt was a big step for Farida) and cried (another rarity). We promised to keep in touch. I kept my desire to see them again to myself, knowing that I shouldn't make promises I may not be able to keep. Only the Lord knows when, and if, I'll ever see them again.

When I got home I was able to give my children letters that Farida and Hanifah had written to them. My children now have friends in Uganda. How great is that? God is soo good.

I'm Home!

2011-06-20T07:43:00.005-06:00

From an amazing, mind blowing, wonderful trip to Uganda. I am still very much processing the trip, gathering photos and reviewing my journal, so I will update in detail soon.

For now, I thought I'd take advantage of this jet-lagged morning to give a shorter update.

It was great.

It was what I imagined it would be and it was much more than I could have ever imagined.

I had some insecurities going into this trip that the Lord helped me sort through and overcome. He is so good and so faithful. He made this dream of mine, being in Africa snuggling and connecting with orphans, come true. I am so thankful.

I made some great, new friends. Some Ugandan, some American. We cried together and laughed (and laughed!) together. These are forever-memories.

I didn't really suffer from culture shock, but more heartbreak for some of the conditions I witnessed. I found myself frustrated to tears on more than one occasion.

The trip was life changing in that it was a fulfillment of dreams and hopes I've had for years. I was already in love with these people...and I hadn't even met them yet! I think it's similar to pregnancy...when I was pregnant with my children, I already loved them. When they were born, it was confirmation of that love. Love coming to fruition. This trip was a birthing of the love that I already had in my heart.

I just have to take a moment and brag on my husband. Words can't even describe the admiration and gratitude I have for him. He always is a super dad, but especially these last couple of weeks! He created some memories that our children will remember for many years...sleepovers, movies, Chuck E Cheese, playgrounds, water balloon fights, horseback riding, walks, french toast, dollar store runs...knowing that they were having so much fun here made it easier for me to fully engage over there. AND I came home to a clean house! He rocks!

I will share more in the next week or so. Two weeks of emotions and experiences is a lot to sort through! The jet lag is a bit challenging too...in some ways I don't feel like I'm back yet! I'm awake for several hours in the early morning, by myself, while my precious family sleeps. Then, from about early afternoon through bedtime I'm tiiired and not worth much to them. Can't wait til that's over!

Uganda Bound

2011-06-02T07:02:00.003-06:00

I know, I know. I've fallen off the blogging wagon again. Let's just call things like we see them and say this is a new normal for now, shall we?

The kids are out of school. The weather is slooooowly, but surely, warming. My house is messy. I'm behind on laundry.

And it's all okay. My kids are loving their new stay-up-later, sleep-in-later schedule. Brad and I aren't complaining about it either!

AND I'm leaving for Uganda in 2 days!

I am so excited about all that God is going to do through these 2 weeks!

I am enjoying getting to know the members of our team a bit...I'm excited about travel days full of talking and learning life stories. Their energy and laughter are contagious.

I am looking forward to seeing new things, smelling new things, tasting new things. I am preparing myself to be amazed.

I can't wait to hold some Ugandan children. My heart races even typing those words.

Mostly, I am looking forward to this time with my Creator. This trip is His gift to me. I am so thankful and overwhelmed.

I'll be honest and say that I'm not looking forward to saying goodbye to my wonderful, supportive, amazing husband and our 5 little squeezes. Paige and Brooke both cried yesterday, realizing my trip is so close. It was all I could do not to join them. We are all thankful for this opportunity, and excited for things that will occur (they have some fun things planned, too!), but it will be heart-wrenching to say goodbye. And not hold them and kiss them for 2 weeks. I'm going to miss talking to my best friend everyday. I think I might just journal like crazy and make him sit through me reading it all to him when I get back!

Please pray...

for our team...for health, for safety, for perseverance, for heart transformations.

for the Ugandan people...for softened hearts and new revelation of God's amazing love for them.

for our family...for comfort and peace, strength, patience and endurance.

I'll be a better blogger when I get back (for a few days at least *wink*) and post some pics and updates!

Love to you all,

Dreams DO Come True

2011-05-03T06:00:00.002-06:00

I've been a Christ-follower for just over 15 years now. One of the dreams He placed deep in my heart early on in our relationship was a desire to go to Africa. I went on several missions trips during the first 5 years or so of being a Christian, none of them being Africa.

Then, I got married. And had babies. Lots of babies *wink*

We have 2 sponsored children from Africa. My heart breaks for them. I love them, even though I've never physically met them. I will one day, though.

In the busy-ness of life my desire to go on missions trips, specifically Africa, has been buried deep in my heart. So deep, at times, that I wondered if it was still there.

At the beginning of this year, Brad and I took some time to reflect on our current season and God's goals for us.

My direction was clear: no more Laurel Haven Interiors (the furniture refinishing business I began last year), no more Bible studies. Specifically, He said no new commitment to anything on-going.

I felt this was for two reasons: First, I need to focus on my children and be available for them. Brad has more opportunities to travel than ever before and I need to be a constant for them. Second, there would be spontaneous opportunities for ministry that I needed to be available for.

A month or so ago, I became overwhelmed. We were in the midst of The Thorn, our Easter production. It seemed all I was accomplishing was a lot of driving kids around, picking up after everyone, washing clothes, cleaning out yucky lunch boxes from take-and-go dinners, running errands for my very busy kids and overly busy husband. I felt I was becoming an invisible, behind the scenes, under-appreciated enabler of my family.

That should be ok. And it is, 90% of the time. But every now and then I get frustrated and unsettled. I found myself asking, "Is this who I am now?"

Not to downplay the roles of wife and mother. I know they are a high calling. But I know that there is more in me. I know I have more to give.

On a rare evening at home, I vented to Brad. There I was, crying over dishes in the sink. "It's not always easy to be Mrs. Brad Parsley!"

My poor, sweet husband. He wanted so badly to fix it and make me feel better. But he couldn't. This was an issue of my heart. I know I'm being obedient by doing these things. And NOT doing other things. But even in my obedience, I was needing validation.

"Well, what is it you want to be doing? You don't even know what you want to do..." He was right.

I began to question God, "Is there anything left in me? Do I have anything to give anymore? Anything besides changing diapers and doing laundry?"

Over the next 24 hours, God and I had an ongoing conversation. Sometimes He is so tangible, His voice almost audible. "You have missions in your heart. You have orphans in your heart. Those things aren't Brad's things. Those things are ME in you."

I felt at peace. Ok. I can wait. I can be patient and wait 5, 10, 20 years. As long as I know those promises are in there, I will wait.

I told Brad that night that I had come full circle (He knows I always do...He is so patient with me).

Then, this last week, Brad called me. "It looks like one of the girls isn't able to go on the (New Life School of Worship) trip to Uganda. Do you want to go?"

Um. What??

So I listened to the Lord's instructions. I was obedient and trusting. And now, I am going to AFRICA to work with ORPHANS in one month!!

It couldn't be more perfect. The trip is all planned, ready to go. All I had to do was say yes.

*Let me note that we took a couple of days and talked through and prayed about it. It's a 2 week trip. That's an eternity to a stay at home mom of 5 kids!!*

I know the Lord is pleased. I bet He was just giddy over His surprise for me. It's like when I'm planning a surprise for one of my kids, but they start to question my plans. I say "Just trust me, I know what's best," knowing that they are going to be soo excited and pleased at my surprise. He is a great Father and He loves to surprise us, too!

If I had a bunch of furniture projects lined up, or some ongoing commitments to tend to, this trip would have been harder to accept. As things are, I can just say "YES!!"

I'M GOING TO AFRICA!!!!

Hope

2011-04-19T06:40:00.001-06:00

"God must bring us to a point--I cannot tell you how it will be, but he will do it--where, through a deep and dark experience, our natural power is touched and fundamentally weakened, so that we no longer dare trust ourselves. He has had to deal with some of us very strangely, and take us through difficult and painful ways, in order to get us there....But then at last is is that he can begin to use us...
We would like to have death and resurrection put together within one hour of each other. We cannot face the thought that God will keep us aside for so long a time; we cannot bear to wait. And of course I cannot tell you how long he will take, but in principle I think it is quite safe to say this, that there will be a definite period when he will keep you there...All is in darkness, but it is only for a night. It must indeed be a full night, but that is all. Afterwards you will find that everything is given back to you in glorious resurrection; and nothing can measure the difference between what was before and what now is!"

Watchman Nee (China)

taken from 'Devotions for Lent'

from the Mosaic Holy Bible

I feel it's easy to get caught up in the "blessings" side of Christianity. We assume that if we are in God's will, if we are being obedient, that life will be all smiles and happiness. But it's important to remember that He has begun a good work in us (Phil 1:6) and He wouldn't be a good Father if He didn't work to complete it in us.

It is the surrendering to the troubles that is so hard for me. I want to fight them and conquer them. Like the author said, I want them to be over immediately.

I find myself comparing my troubles to the troubles of other people. "I shouldn't be so upset over this. There are people going through things way worse than me." But, this isn't the point.

God can use the small troubles to form and shape us just as He can use the large ones.

It's these small troubles that can catch us off guard, to just wobble our walk a bit. After enough wobbling, we will fall over if our feet aren't planted firm.

It's my desire to embrace the hardship. Even REJOICE in it so that I can grow in maturity and wisdom (James 1:2-4). Instead of praying for the hard times to pass, pray for God to teach me and grow me through these things.

He is GOOD. His plans are GOOD. He is FOR us (Rom 8:31)...

{photo1}
{photo2}

Opinions, Please!

2011-04-13T09:05:00.005-06:00

I have been talking about glazing my kitchen cabinets for several months now.

To read about my reasons and my vision for them, go here.

This week I took the leap. I used some walnut stain that I already had in the garage and did an over all coat. Then, I wiped it all off, resulting in a slight difference in the overall color and a stronger contrast in the grain of the wood.

Then, I custom mixed some glaze using my Valspar Mocha glaze mixed with some of the dark stain. I used this on the insets.

B came home at lunch time and witnessed my progress.

Now, let me tell you something about my husband. He is so gracious and allows me to paint walls when I want...and then repaint them when I change my mind. He hangs pictures for me...and then rehangs them when I find something new. He helps me rearrange the kids bedrooms. Again. And again. And again. (one of these times we'll hit it right and all the kids will be settled *wink*)

All this to say, he tells me his opinion, but really he wants me to do what I want. He's made his peace with it changing with my mood and our season of life. (we used to have lots of really bold colors on the walls, which I felt was inspiring. Now, we're going for more peace and tranquility in our home, so the walls are changing to calmer, muted tones)

Okay, back to the cabinets. He likes the look I'm going for. He can even envision what it will look like with new hardware and different floors and counter tops...because *we will* have new floors and maybe new counter tops one day!

But his first impression is that they look a little, um, "old school" aka DATED. Yea, NOT the look I'm going for. He is a bit concerned that my glazing is turning the yellowish oak cabinets into 80's style dark oak cabinets.

We're in the process of painting the kitchen walls, which is partly why I wanted to darken the cabinets. The walls are becoming "whole wheat" color instead of the dark, rusty color. I needed some contrast and I don't at all like the whole wheat color next to the yellowy cabinets.

I know I'm rambling before I get to the pics, but you have to understand the VISION before you judge. You can go there with me, right? So, envision some oil-rubbed and/or rustic hardware, and let me know what you think...

{color before}

{color after}

{color before}

{color after}

{top in original color, bottom after glazing}

...and please ignore my messy counter tops...

What do you think? Should I keep going?

Swimming...Against the Current

2011-04-10T14:47:00.002-06:00

I've been absent on purpose.

This life we live...we, meaning the ones in my home and we, the bloggers, facebookers, twitterers, Moms, friends...it can get so hurried. So pressured. So fast.

So I made a decision to sloooow. To quiet. To allow for breathing. For smiling. For joy.

The pressure to keep up can become so great that we forget to look up. To notice the ones around us. The beauty around us.

This is where I found myself, anyway.

So I have quieted. And now I can sense His prompting "It's okay. Tiptoe."

So I am tiptoe-ing. Quietly. And slowly.

The process and WORK that He has been doing in me has been...thick. Does that make sense? Without ceasing, I push through the waist-high-mud, longing for the shore. Longing for a break from the labor.

But through all of this, this work, this labor...I know He is GOOD. The work He is doing in me is GOOD. Even when I don't see any fruit from my labor...when it feels like it's all done in secret and please oh please let me know that I am on the right path...He is GOOD.

He sees me. He is for me.

I could run and choose an easier way.

Or I can lean into it. I can ask for more. More wisdom. More strength. More of Him and what He has for me.

And this is what I am choosing. I am leaning and pressing and asking...

And for those of you that are moms, or even if you just find yourself rushed and hurried, you can go here for some extra encouragement. This post helped to breathe life and purpose to the journey I've found myself on...

Catching Up & A Fun New Thing

2011-02-28T10:57:00.005-07:00

Hello! It's been a while!

I am not going to waste your time by explaining all of my excuses for my lack of bloginess. Let's just say life is busy and I'm trying to be a good manager of my time and a good wife and Mommy... aka I'm a bad blogger.

Life is running fast these days, but if you're genuinely interested in what's going on around the Parsley household (because we are just THAT interesting *wink*), make sure you're following me on twitter and/or facebook. That seems much easier for me these days!

I did want to share a fun/useful/easy thing we're trying out. It's an online "job chart" for the kids. I went on and created accounts for each of them. Then I assigned various jobs--for us, this includes everything from brushing teeth to doing laundry to reading scripture to practicing basketball.

The kids are able to log on and view their jobs, check them off and earn points. They can then redeem their points for rewards that I have allowed. They range from baking cookies to lego sets and American girl dolls (you do have to pay for the tangible rewards, so the expensive rewards are worth a lot of points).

It seems to be working well for us. They don't always get their jobs done, and I still have to check and make sure some jobs are done to my standard. But, overall it is way less work than anything I've tried before. I like that it doesn't rely on me to write out or print out charts every week. It's on there and I can change it any time I want. Less time for me and more responsibility and fun for the kids. It's a win-win.

If you decide to try it out, be sure to come back and let me know if it's working for you!!

In the meantime, I'll see you on twitter or facebook or here when I make it back...

And just because he's so cute and makes my life so interesting...