Smiling Through Adversity

What Happend to You?

2011-11-18T21:21:00.029-06:00

A thick silence has fallen on this space for quite some time, but I can assure you that things have most certainly not been quiet in the hallways of my heart. Many of these thoughts have been winding there way through my mind for well over a year. :-)

Like a shadow that follows you in the bright sun light, everywhere I go there is a question that pursues me. I hear it in the curious whispers of children to their parents. I see it in the fixed eyes of strangers as I pass them by. “What happened to you?” They all ache to say, as they see me walking with an uneven gate; my hands holding tightly to two canes in order to steady myself.

I can tell by their eyes that for many their curiosity is accompanied by feelings of concern or pity. There are those who are strongly uncomfortable and strive to keep their distance from me. Some ponder the question inwardly while others make their thoughts more boldly known through an offhanded comment, or an occasional straightforward question.

I acknowledge as I look around, my senses having been fine tuned to the whispers and stares that are so much a part of my walk through this world. Politely, I strive to meet each wondering gaze and remark with a smile, never thinking twice before kindly embrace a question. I want to assure each person that I understand their curiosity and I am by no means offended by their response.

But I must confess, there are times when I wish that I could blend in and not be so plainly noticed. That was certainly the case not too long ago as I was approaching the checkout counter in a department store. I was standing in line when suddenly I was met with a surprising, assuming comment from the cashier. I smiled and gave him a kind, informatively reply, but inside I was shrinking. I wanted to sigh and hang my head low- to somehow just disappear. I'm thankful that God in His abundant mercy and grace did not allow me to so readily escape my discomfort. Instead He pursued me through it reminding me of the truth.

As I made my way across the parking lot, eager to leave this situation behind, this young man's remarks lingered in my mind, and I heard that still small voice whisper to my heart, “You are mine. I have set you apart to be different to stand out for my sake. 'You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.' ” Matthew 5:14-16

Deep within I know what He says to be true. With my hand held tightly in His grasp, our hearts aligned once again I press on- seeing more clearly than ever what a privilege it is to bear His light through this life wrapped in the gift of physical limitations. As I ponder that familiar question more deeply I wonder, am I living each day to reflect Christ in such a way that I make people want to stop in their tracks and consider 'What happened to you?'

How about you?

This song speaks clearly to the desire of my heart.

Only By God's Amazing Grace,

Melissa

A Scenic View

2011-08-31T21:13:00.000-05:00

Recently I took the opportunity to vew some of the wonder of creation through the lens of my camera. Thruly there is bauty all around us.

The Mighty Mississippi River

I changed my focus just a little bit to capture a train carrying coal across state lines.

There will be more scenic photos to come: until then, I pray that you are blessed.

Melissa

Cherished Memories

2011-07-08T23:00:00.018-05:00

Three months have passed since we said goodbye to my grandmother- a women whose life was rich both in experiences and years. As I reflect on her walk through this broken world, I remember a women who allowed the hardships of her life to mold her into someone with a heart of great compassion who loved deeply. One who held tight to her beliefs and stood by her convictions.

She was gentle and kind, and poured everything she had into the lives of those around her- strangers and loved ones alike. Having been nurtured by her hands and held in her heart, I will forever cherish the memories of the love that she gave, and all the time we spent in heartfelt conversations and roaring laughter- simply enjoying each other’s company.

With my birthday fast approaching my heart is draped with a curtain of sadness; as I prepare to face the occasion amidst reality that my ears will not be graced with the sound of a ringing phone and met on the other end by her joyous greeting and her marvelous voice, filled with such love, singing from her heart the timeless "Happy Birthday" melody.

While my heart aches with sadness, I am so thankful for the memories, photographs, and songs that keep her close as I anxiously await the day when we will be reunited for all eternity.

This is one of the last photos we had taken together.

Here she is singing a lullaby that I heard often growing up.

Time is fleeting, life is fragile cherish every moment!

Melissa

The Blessing of a Birthday Girl

2011-07-03T17:38:00.002-05:00

Today, I am reminded of the goodness of God and how He unites strangers as friends for our good and His glory.

An autumn chill was in the air on that mid November Sunday morning as I prepared to address the congregation of a church in a nearby community. With my notes clutched tightly in my grasp I made my way to the front of the church. Looking out into congregation I recognized many familiar faces as those who had played significant roles in my life as a child. Now, years later to the astonishment of many, I was standing before them passionately sharing my heart and my experiences with the forgotten Children of Romania.

One story after another I shared the accounts of children who have been left alone in hospitals and children’s homes; little ones, who though they are an oceans length away, hold my heart in their fragile hands.

As I concluded my remarks and the service was brought to a close many people gathered around to share their thoughts with me. As the crowd thinned, I noticed a woman standing off to the side. Her smile was radiant and I could tell that she wanted to share something important with me. With a very warm and energetic greeting she approached me. Asking if I had some time to talk she invited me to sit down. Pulling a small photo album from her purse she began to tell me how my testimony had touched her. Humbled by her kind words, I listened intently as she shared the story of how she and her husband had been called by God to step out in faith on the journey of adoption.

Opening the photo album she introduced me to their precious little girl. A tiny child from South Korea who like me, had been born with Spastic Cerebral Palsy. Our conversation lasted several minutes as I shared more of my personal story with her and answered some of her questions. Amazed and overjoyed at how God had brought us together we exchanged contact information and she promised to keep me updated on their adoption.

Over the next several months we exchanged many emails and I joined them in prayer for their daughter. Finally, in August of 2005 they traveled to bring their precious Ellie home. Today, Ellie is celebrating her ninth birthday. She is truly a light and a blessing to all those who know her. I am so thankful for the gift of her life and the opportunity that I have been given to be a part of it.

Happy Birthday Precious girl, I Love you!

An Abondance of Beauty

2011-05-11T07:08:00.000-05:00

I cannot help but marvel at the beauty of creation in this wonderful season of spring!

The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever." Isaiah 40:8

Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. Isaiah 1:18

But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8.

I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5

I am so thankful for the grace mercy and love that He pours on my life daily. How Great is our God!

Hushed and Humbled by His Grace,

Melissa

Extravagant Beauty

2011-05-10T10:42:00.000-05:00

The delicate detail and vibrant color which God has spread across creation leaves me in awe of Him. What marvelous beauty we have been given to enjoy! I love capturing it!

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalm: 19:1

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

"Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in his entire splendor was dressed like one of these. Luke 12:27

Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever. Psalm 136:26

I will have more beauty to share in my next post. Until then, enjoy all the blessings that God has wrapped for you in the gift of today!

Richest Blessings in Christ,

Melissa

Come to Jesus

2011-04-09T06:25:00.001-05:00

I am so thankful today that no matter the circumstance, or season of life, in Jesus there is life. His sustaining grace and love will remain steadfast at all times.

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10

Only by His Grace,

Melissa

Just a Call Away

2011-04-02T05:15:00.004-05:00

There are so many thoughts winding their way through the corridors of my mind. Thoughts that are just waiting to be spilled across the keys and onto the page before me, but as I sit here in the silence of these early morning hours, with shadows of sorrow surrounding me as the impending passing of a loved one rests on the horizon of my future, I cannot seem to find the words with which to begin composing my thoughts.

As I listen to sound of silence,and feel the ache of sorrow in every beat of my heart, I am thankful that "love is just a call away".

The song I have to share today is an original song written by Lexi. I had the privilege of meeting both Lexi and her mom last weekend. It was truly a day that I will remember for the rest of my life!

I will have much more to share about my experience in another post. I am truly in awe of God, and I am so thankful for the gift of friendship that He has given me in Jill. If you have not yet found Jill's blog for yourself, I encourage you to follow the link and soak in God's love and truth through her transparent reflections of life walked out in faith. Her love for God, her passion for the truth, and her heart for others inspires me daily to a greater pursuit of becoming like Christ.

Lexi is truly beautiful from the inside out! Her heart and passion for the things of God is like nothing I have ever seen in someone so young. God has blessed Lexi with many incredible talents and she desires only to use each one for His glory. God‘s love and light radiate from deep within her and leave sa profound impact on the lives of everyone she meets.

Will you please join me in praying over Lexi` as she trusts God with the future that He has planned for her? Next weekend she will be recording her first CD. After that she will be finishing up high school and God only knows the plans He has for her future, but one thing is for sure,His plans for her are GOOD because her heart is set on pleasing Him!

Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know. Jeremiah 33:3

Only by His Grace,

Melissa

In Him

2011-03-21T07:46:00.003-05:00

I woke up this morning, from a restless night of little sleep, with the words to this song scrolling through my mind.

On this stretch of life’s journey, I have found myself in great need of peace, rest and a song to sing in the dark of night. I am thankful that I don’t have to look far to find any of these things they are all resting within my reach in God’s word and at the throne of grace. So, with my heart heavy and my thoughts winding in all directions I draw near and call on Him- trusting that He knows my heart and all of my desires.

Though I cannot make ssense of the circumstances that surround me, I know that His ways are higher and His plans for me are far better than anything that I can conceive on my own- all of His glory.

So I wave the white flag of surrender. NOT my will but yours be done, Lord. And I offer Him thanks for the provisions and strength that He gives for today, and the bright hope for tomorrow. Because God is love!

Surrendered to the Savior,

Melissa

Faithful Friend

2011-03-18T23:30:00.004-05:00

Friendship is one of Gods most precious and remarkable gifts. As I prepare this week to travel and be reunited with a close friend and to meet another whom I cherish and respect, I am so thankful for the gift of friendship and for the reminder that brings. The reminded that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

I pray that I will take on the mind and nature of Christ and that my friendships with others reflect Him.

That I am quick to listen and slow to speak.

That my words would be laces with grace and would be used as tools in the hand of God to build up the faith and life of another.

That I would go before the throne of grace often desiring not to lay burdens of my own down at His feet, but the cares and concerns of others.

I would rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

That the light of Christ shining from within me would light the path for the journey that someone else had been called to travel.

That the counsel I offer would be to seek first the will of God

Lord, help me to be a true and faithful friend that I might honor you!

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:1-4

Only by His Grace,

Melissa

Thankful Thursday- Friends

2011-03-17T19:21:00.012-05:00

I remember the day as if it were yesterday. The summer sun beat down hard upon the earth and poured through my open window as I scrambled to change my clothes and force my feet into the plastic braces that along with my canes, would be my physical support for the day.

In a combination of anticipation, excitement, and strong apprehension my heart pulsated hard within my chest. This was a day that I had long been preparing and waiting for. In just 3 short hours I would be standing in the company of over 100 other homeschooled seniors from across the country and around the world, who, together with family and friends, were gathering to commemorate high school graduation.

Elation seemed to permeate the air around me, yet my heart was profoundly sad- that for reason beyond my control my parents, who inverted so much into my education over the past four years, were not able to share in this joyous occasion. In those moments I realized that I was going to need much more than just physical support to make it through the day. I paused in the flurry of getting ready to lift my heart in prayer and ask God to somehow carry me through this day.

Little did I know how His answer would come.

With my grandmother, my uncle, and my aunt at my side we made the two hour trip to the school that furnished my curriculum and held my transcripts. Upon our arrival, I made my way through winding hallways and up three flights of stairs to join the rest of the graduating class. The room was humming with conversation as I made my way through the rows of neatly lined chairs, and past my peers all sitting in caps and gowns of royal blue.

Finding my name on a slip of paper resting on the seat of a chair I took my place among them. Not long after the chairs on either side of me were being taken by the two young women whose names their seats also held. As they took their places I sat in silence, with nervous sadness surrounding me.

The girl seated at my right introduced herself to me. Softly I greeted her; secretly hoping for no further conversation. But, with great enthusiasm, she continued to talk. Sitting silently I listened, wanting desperately to keep to myself, so that my apprehensions and sadness could not be seen. But, she persisted. In an effort to satisfy her tongue I spoke. It was not long before we were fully engaged in conversation.

As the day wore on, we stuck together and I found myself taking great delight her company. As the ceremony concluded, with caps tossed high, we had our photo taken together, and exchanged a hug and contact information before heading our separate ways.

A smile crossed my face as I descended the school steps that evening realizing that this beautiful young woman who stood at my right was God’s answer to my prayer.

Little did I know that our meeting was just the beginning of a friendship that has remained strong ever since.

Today as I am just days away from traveling to West Virginia to be reunited with Krystal I thank God for how He held my fragile heart in His hands that day, and gave me the gift of friendship that would last a lifetime.

2005

2007

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.”

Sustained by God's Grace,

Melissa

Counting

2011-03-14T21:40:00.078-05:00

The book lays open upon her desk. With a pencil in hand, she sits pondering the concepts that are spread across the page before her. From another room I hear her counting as she works her way from left to right across the page, carefully solving each equation that makes up the day’s lesson in second grade math.

A smile bursts across my face as I hear her pause and say,‘six'. The number sparks my memory. For weeks I too have been counting. Counting down the days until creation is awakened from its long winter slumber and is revived again by the warmth of the springtime sun. Yes, only six days to go and it will be spring!

Her counting continue one step higher. From six she climbs to seven. My smile widens as the anticipation within me continues to build. In seven short days I will be reunited in person with a young woman whom I have been blessed to call a dear friend for nearly eight years!

Oh, the joy that is springing up from within as I continue this simple exercise in counting. Count the blessings that my heavenly Father has lovingly wrapped up in the gift of today. With my heart filled with gratitude I offer Him thanks for a select few of the endless number blessings that He has lavishly bestowed on me.

the blessing of prayer -both giving it as a gift to others, and receiving its benefits and comfort myself

sunshine

Daylight savings time

Emails from a trusted friend that bring encouragement a smile to my day

Clean Water to quench my thirst

Two cans that help me stand up and walk

New shoes

The opportunity to surprise others with simple acts of love and kindness.

A future that is resting safely and securely in hands of our loving, all knowing God

The gift of one more day

The best way to give God thsnks is to live in complete surrender and full obedience to His will no matter the cost.

Lord, teach me to number my days; to use my time wisely for your honor and glory. Open my eyes to see you clearly in the ordinary as well as the extraordinary moments that make up each new day. Help me to fix my mind on complete surrender and obedience. May lips overflow daily with praise and thanksgiving for the gift of your Son and all of the blessings that you generously give me that I am so undeserving of. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Only by God’s Amazing Grace,

Melissa

Let Go and Let God

2011-02-26T02:29:00.005-06:00

Physically speaking, this week has been very difficult. The deep aches and throbbing pains of repetitive motion injuries and extreme spasticity caused by my Cerebral palsy have left me feeling tired and weary. While physically this ongoing pain has been very hard to endure God has used these trying days and sleepless nights to speak to my heart.

He has been calling me to look up to Him and lay everything I am and all of my will down at His feet, and trust that He will lift me up, and give me the strength stand, and the grace to press on in this journey. I simply need to walk by faith and believe that even though pain surrounds me, and my life has taken a shape that I never hoped or imagined that it would, God is faithful, and He will use all of this for my good and His glory.

In letting go and allowing my every doubt and fear, and all of my expectations hopes and dreams be carried away by the wind of His spirit, fixing my eyes solely on Him, and embracing every day as a gift and each hardship as good, I will see His faithfulness and receive the blessings that He desires for me- blessings that can only come from abiding in Him.

When days are hard and nights grow long, and I desperately desire someone to tell me that all will be okay, I can cling to His word and rest on the promises that He gives. I can trust that He will go with me and sustain me by His grace until the day when I will look upon His face and all of life’s hardships are lost forever in His love!

Thank you Lord, for your love and faithfulness when I am faithless. Help my unbelief, and give me the strength to trust you no matter what may come my way. Help me to recognize all of your blessings as I unwrap this gift on challenging layer at time.

In Jesus wonderful name I pray, Amen

Only By His Grace

Melissa

Every Season

2011-02-04T23:26:00.006-06:00

As it is in many parts of the country right now, the canvas of creation around me is covered in a thick wet blanket of white While do I enjoy gazing upon the natural beauty of snow lacing barren tree branches, and icicles dangling from overhangs, I must confess, I am more than ready to embrace the warmth of the sun on my skin, and behold the sight of fresh flowers in bloom, and birds taking flight.

As I have been eagerly awaiting the changing of seasons, not only in the physical world around me, but in life, God has been whispering through the chill in the air, and the restlessness of my spirit, "at the appointed time the season will change. But, until then there is reason to rejoice. There is a time for every purpose under heaven." Both in nature and in our lives, winter opens the door for new life to enter in. God is working all things together for good, and making all things new!

May I wait patiently on the Lord, and give thanks in every season that He gives!

Only By His Grace,

Melissa

One Day-One Lunch YOU Can Make a Difference!

2011-02-02T00:09:00.003-06:00

A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor Proverbs 22:9

Stop for a minute and consider this question. What are you having for lunch today?

For thousands of children around the world the answer to that question is nothing!

Every 5 seconds somewhere in the word a child dies of starvation.

Sadly, while we go through our days and plan our meals we rarely think about those who have no food to fill their aching, empty stomachs.

Perhaps it is because this epidemic of hunger is so large; we don’t even know where to begin in easing the pain that it causes. But what if you knew where to begin? What if all it took was giving the money that you would spend on lunch for one day to make a significant difference in the lives of hungry children. It can!

The Average American spends between $2.00 and $8.00 a day on lunch. If everyone who reads this blog post would simply choose- on February 3^rd- to give up their ‘lunch money’ and then donate what they would have spent on lunch that day to Lifesong For Orphans for the Adami Tulu preschool in Ziway, Ethiopia the pains of hunger would be eased for thousands of children and lives would be saved!

Jesus took in His hands the lunch of an obedient, willing child and with it He fed more than 5000 people. Imagine what Jesus could do with your lunch! A mere $3.00 feeds a child for ONE MONTH. Imagine the impact that can be made simply by our willingness to place our lunch in His hands to make a small sacrifice for someone else?
So mark your calendar for Feb. 3rd and spread the word about the 'One Day- One Lunch Project.' Together we can make a difference in the lives of children one lunch at a time!

Donations can be given online at: http://www.lifesongfororphans.org/donation.html please indicate it's to go to the Adami Tulu Preschool.

Or mail checks to:

Lifesong for Orphans

PO Box 40

Gridley, IL 61744

**Indicate for the Adami Tulu Preschool

(The One Day – One Lunch Project was started by Addisyn and her family. You can learn more about them and the amazing journey God has put them on here!)

Because They are His Children,

Melissa

Hanging On

2011-01-22T02:28:00.003-06:00

An instant- that is all it takes for life to change forever. In an instant all that is familiar can be stripped away to great unknown. Such an instant occurred for me this week in a phone call I received form a friend. As her words of ill health fell piercingly on my ears a weight of apprehension, and deep sadness came to rest heavy on my heart.

Hanging up the phone, I sat in silent disbelief before God- unable to formulate a clear thought, and unable to pray. After several minutes God broke the silence, quilting my heart with His word; reminding me to be still and cling to Him. He showed me once again that even when it seems like my world has been turned upside down, and I am left feeling utterly alone, He is there. His word will remain constant no matter the circumstances that surround.

Though many unknowns linger on the horizon, I will anchor myself to His word that is my very life. His thoughts for you and me outnumber the grains of sand that cover all the earth’s shores. His love is unfailing, and His word is eternal. These are promises we can cling to.

All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever. 1 Peter 1 : 24-25

Only by His Grace,

Melissa

Frozen Fog

2011-01-12T17:20:00.000-06:00

I will be the first to tell you that I don't like winter. But even while I dread the bitter cold I must admit, there is something so majestic and serene about nature being dressed in winter’s pure white garments that I absolutely love! Take this frozen fog for example.

If this has wet your appetite for seeing some really incredible photos that capture the frozen fingerprints of God across the landscape of creation, I encourage you to take in an awe inspiring view from talents of Jill and Lexi! Their work will leave you speachless!! (and if you are like me a little jealous too.) :-)

The heavens declare the glory of God;

the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they reveal knowledge.
They have no speech, they use no words;
no sound is heard from them.
Yet their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.

Psalm 19:1-4

In His Amazing Grace,

Melissa

Give Me Jesus

2011-01-08T00:16:00.003-06:00

Here we are one week into New Year. As I look back on all that this first week has entailed my first thought is, “wow, this year has not started off anything like I hoped it would.” Already I have experienced enough physical pain and emotional heartache to last me the rest of the year.

Then I call to mind the prayer that I laid before God as 2010 drew to a close. A desire and prayer that my eyes and ears would be open to see and hear God more clearly, that I would rely on Him completely, and trust Him no matter what.

In light of this desire, I see that the year has begun exactly as I prayed that it would. As my physical strength has been depleted, my heart broken and my emotions left raw, my spirit has been made hungry for more of God- who has promises to be my strength and my portion forever.

My eyes have been seeking to see His righteous hand at work. My ears have been tuned to listen closely for His still small voice in everything around me, and in every interaction that I have with other Christians.

I have been left with nothing to rely on but Jesus. His love, His direction, His peace, His truth, and His strength, are the only things in life that can be trusted. In our deepest needs He meets us with the grace to see us through. He alone is faithful.

As life’s seasons change throughout this year, may we long for more of Jesus.

Fernando Ortega - "Give Me Jesus" from Adamson.TV on Vimeo.

In His Grace,

Melissa

God Cares

2011-01-05T17:27:00.001-06:00

I found this as I was thumbing through the archives of a favorite blog today. It was a message I needed. Maybe it is something God wants to remind you of too. No matter the season you are walking through- God is there and He cares.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Paslm 73:26

God Will Take Care of You

May your troubled heart

find peace and comfort in the knowledge

that you are never alone.

May God's presence ease

your trembling spirit and give you rest.

He knows how you feel.

He is ever aware of your circumstances

and ready to be your strength,

your grace, and your peace.

He is there to cast sunlight

into all of your darkened shadows,

to send encouragement through the love

of friends and family, and

to replace your weariness with new hope.

God is your stronghold,

and with Him as your guide,

you need never be afraid.

No circumstances can block His love.

No grief is too hard for Him to bear.

No task is too difficult

for Him to complete.

When what you are feeling

is simply too deep for words

and nothing anyone does or says

can provide you with the relief you need,

God understands.

He is your provider --

today, tomorrow, and always.

And He loves you.

Cast all of your cares on Him...

and believe.

Author -- Linda E. Knight

Trusting Him,

Melissa

Thankful Thursday- Winter Fun

2010-12-23T12:34:00.006-06:00

When the snow starts to fly I am usually content to gaze upon its glistening beauty through frosted windowpanes from the warmth of an indoor dwelling. But, there are times when I cannot resist braving the winter chill, and the treacherous walking conditions, to capture the excitement and wonder of children as they are bundled tight in multiple layers, and sent out to embrace an afternoon of fun in the snow white winter wonderland.Tuesday afternoon was just such a time.

I had to laugh to myself as I endeavored to embark on this escapade, with my camera tucked carefully deep in the pocket of my coat, and my hands gripping tightly to my canes, so festively wrapped in Christmas lights. Heaven only knows the adventures and the challenges that awaited me as I stepped over the threshold of my back door into the slippery, sparkling blanket of white that covers the frozen ground.

I could hear the energetic voices of my sisters calling me as I made my way down the steps, wet with melted snow. As soon as I round the corner and come into their innocent view, thick, wet snowballs began to pelt my down filled winter coat. The adventure had begun.

As quickly as the snowballs began soaring though the air they ceased- as the girls turned their thoughts from snowballs to snowman. I followed closely behind them as they made their way though inches of snow in search of an untouched patch where they could proudly construct their first “Frosty” of the season. At last they found the perfect location! I watched, in childlike wonder, through the lens of my camera, as they rolled three big balls, one right after another, and carefully lifted them atop each other to create the perfect snowman.

With their snowman complete (with the exception of arms) the girls ventured off to go tromp though some deep drifts. I decided that it was best that I forgo that venture. I struggle to walk on flat, dry ground. Can you imagine what walking in deep snow is like? Let’s just say it is an ADVENTURE- one that I don’t like to take unless absolutely necessary. :-)

After a few minutes they emerged from the drifts and invited me up in their tree house.

I was more than happy to climb into the tree house with them, but climbing down scared me to death! I am afraid of heights, and my legs were so cold and stiff that I could hardly bend them. I seriously thought I was going to fall. I think I will keep my feet planted firmly on the ground from now on- Thank you very much!

Once back on the ground, I sat down to catch my breath. The girls saw that as an opportunity to pile on top of me. :-)

Covererd in snow and chilled to the bone, I was ready to return indoors,but not brfore basking in the smiles and laughter of these two little snow buddies taking a ride on a sled.

How thankful I am for snowballs and snowmen; smiles and laughter, and memories made with these two precious girls.

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!

Rejoicing in the Christ Child,

Melissa

"God’s Love story"

2010-12-20T20:25:00.003-06:00

If you are someone who enjoys reading a good story, I encourage you to take a few minutes and read "God’s Love story" written by Lexi. You will be inspired as you read the story of Christmas as imagined and told by this beautiful young woman whose heart beats in time with the God whom she loves. You can read the strory here.

I pray you all have a wonderful Christmas! May God's gift of love overflow from our hearts not only at Christimas, but each day of the year.

In Christ Alone,

Melissa

Ellie

2010-12-15T17:06:00.001-06:00

Born with Spastic Cerebral Palsy, five years ago this beautiful little girl was without hope; a special needs orphan in Korea. Today, through the love of her adoptive family, Ellie Barth is an intellegent, thriving, and very vibrant 8 year old who captures the hearts of all who know her.

Though physically she is largely confined to a wheelchair, and she struggles with limited speech, her spirit soars and her determination is strong. Her courage in the face of her limitations, multiple surgeries, and pain is something to be admired. (This child's strength puts me to shame, and I am more than 3 times her age.)

Tomorrow morning, Ellie will again put her courage proudly on display. Instead of joining her class and playing the Sugarplum Fairy in her school’s Christmas program, she with be undergoing yet another surgery. A surgery to have a medical pump implanted in her side that will deliver a constant stream of medicine into her spine in hopes of reducing the spasticity throughout her body and bringing greater ease to her mobility and speech.

Last night she beamed with delight as I sat across the table from her, and over a game of Candy Land, we discussed the surgery, the recovery, and what we pray will be improved quality of life following. She is thrilled with the idea that when all of this is said and done she will most likely have better balance and be able to walk with her walker on a more constant basis.

Will you please join me in praying over Ellie and her medical team though out the next few days? This operation should be quick and it has great potential of improving so many areas of Ellie’s life. As one who has been through this myself, I also know that there can be complications.

Please pray For:

Wisdom for the attending physician
A successful surgery
That Ellie’s body would remain healthy and not reject the implant

That her body will adjust quickly to the medicine so that she can return home
An overall Smooth recovery with no complications- spinal headaches are very common after this procedure and they can pose many difficult and painful challenges.

Thank you for bringing Ellie before the Lord who holds her in His tender care.

God Bless you,

Meissa 

Silent Night Holy Night

2010-12-10T23:23:00.004-06:00

Other than scripture itself, nothing captures the beauty, depth and wonder of Christmas more than the carols that have been handed down from generation to generation- melodies that we hold deep in our hearts that remind us of the gift of love that came to earth as a baby born in a manger- that though His death and resurrection we might be reconciled to God for all eternally.

Who better to sing of that holy, silent night than Lexi. I pray you all have a wonderful Christmas. May this season be full of reminders that God is with us!

Only By God's Gift of Grace,

Melissa

Thankful Thursday- Smiles & Laughter

2010-12-09T14:53:00.000-06:00

A happy heart makes the face cheerful... Proverbs 13:15

This little girl is becoming quite the picture bug!

Over the weekend she got a hold of my camera and began begging me to let her take my photo. How could I resist her? I just had to give in!

Her giggles brought me to my knees with laughter as she played photographer for 20 minutes- taking one shot after another; telling me just what I should say to the camera in order for her to get the perfect shot.

When I finally managed to get my camera out of her gentle, pudgy little grasp (she kept telling me that all of the pictures were “garbage” just so she could keep taking more.) I was really surprised at how good she did capturing me.

I think a camera would make a great Christmas gift for her. What do you think?

In this season of life where uncertainty surrounds me, and physical pain tries to grab a hold of my joy, I am so thankful for moments like these filled with smiles, laughter and love.

Only by His Grace,

Melissa

Thankful Thursday- Maggie

2010-12-02T03:40:00.003-06:00

Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Psalm 127:3

As the verse above states, children are a blessing from the Lord. Sometimes God chooses to double the blessing by giving a family the gift of a child who has special needs. What a gift these children are! Few things put the glory and power of God more on display than a child whose life has been wrapped in the challenges of a disability.

Ten years ago God blessed our family with one of these precious children. A little girl whose life He wrapped in a rare form of Down Syndrome.(My younger sister) Form the moment I laid eyes on Maggie I fell deeply in love. Her beautiful, almond shaped eyes captured my heart, and I have never been the same since!

Through the years my love for Maggie has only grown as I have watched her grow, and learn, and develop a personality all her own! But, the love that I /our family has for Maggie cannot compare to the love and joy that she so freely gives to us and others! Hugs are her specialty! Whether she is around family, friends, or perfect strangers she is always ready to give a warm hug. Her smile lights up every room she enters! Her laughter is contagious! Her ability to so quickly forgive and forget is like nothing I have ever seen! How quickly tears of sadness can be turned to tears of joy in her presence!

Not only am I thankful for her life and the love that is shared between us, but I am ever so thankful for the profound lessons and reminders that God has given me through her life.

Her pure delight in life’s most simple pleasures causes me to slow down, to stop, to be still and consider the blessings and the miracles that are wrapped in the ordinary moments of every day.

Her desire to always lend a helping hand reminds me to be generous.

Her innocence and wonder reminds me that I need to delight myself in the Lord.

Her childlike faith humbles me, and reminds me that I too need the faith like a child to draw near to my Father.

Her desire to pray often reminds me to pray without ceasing and believe!

Her trusting us to meet all her needs reminds me not to concern myself with the things that are meant for God to care for.

Her coming to us when she is hurt, or in need reminds me to cast all of my cares on the Lord.

Her questions remind me to seek Him.

Her joy reminds me that in Him there is fullness of joy.

Her love reminds me that the love of God is everlasting and notihng will ever be able to separate you and I from it!

Thank you, God for the gift of children and how they lead us to a closer walk with you!

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If you have children in your life who like to doodle click here to learn about a fun game that will help them learn how to draw some pretty cute cartoon faces! This looks like a ton of fun, and it sure to bring some laughter to your table! Thanks Jill for sharing this resource!

Only By His Grace,

Melissa