3 Little Men & a Mommy

Kingdom Minded

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Mon, 13 May 2013 17:49:00 +0000

I’m unsettled.

My heart is ready to jump at the things God has put on my heart, He’s opened my eyes to the task at hand and I am just standing at the edge of the cliff ready to jump into the deep waters.

Learning to wait on God’s timing. Learning when to push and make things happen, and when to sit back and wait.

I’m not so good at the latter…..

Do I think it’s going to be beautiful and lovely all the time? Am I so romanced by the idea that I am not aware of the struggle that lies ahead?

No, I do not pretend to think the days ahead are going to be so full of joy because God is in the midst. It would be easy to think that because it’s His dream, His calling, His purpose that it would be always beautiful. But it won’t.

It will be hard. Harder than anything. The days will leave us exhausted and weary and tearful. We will have days where we want to give up and give in. Days we question if we are doing what we are supposed to be doing.

Days where we bicker and argue, days of no patience and snapping words.

Women we've invested in will go back to their pimps, young girls will abort their babies, the young men will go back to drugs, and people will steal and lie and use us.

And we will be broken.

We have to know going in that while we will be fulfilled in our hearts, that God will supply our every need spiritually to walk this path before us….that it will not be easy.

You need only look to scripture to see the truth in this.

The people God really used, the ordinary folk…they praised Him. They were used by Him. They also lost their possessions; they were beaten, stoned, crucified, mocked and killed.

He doesn't hide that from us. It is made clear.

Is it worth it? Is this life worth the heartache that can accompany the miracle?

Is risking your family worth it? Is giving up your house, your job, your income worth it? Is being misunderstood and disrespected worth it?

Can you say, “Lord, do with me what you will” and know that He may take away everything you love on this earth to use you?

We must remember that our God is Kingdom minded. He sees the eternal ramifications, while we can only see the here and now. He sees the greater purpose. We have to remind ourselves daily to think Kingdom minded. Daily giving up our rights in the here and now and trusting that while He has our best in mind, He will always be about the Kingdom. It must be about saving souls for eternity. If we can grasp that concept, if we can hold onto that and let go of the rest of it then we can confidently say it’s worth it. Every single thing is worth the cause of the Kingdom.

As much as it scares me to put it down on paper. As much as my flesh wants to hold on tightly to the things that matter to me more than anything. I must be willing to let Him take anything and everything in my life to use for Him.

I must let him have my family, my husband and my kids. My house, our income, our cars, our lives. I must let Him have access to whatever He chooses because in the end…it is worth it.

Living Kingdom minded is not something you arrive at. It’s something you must consciously do each day. And it will not be easy. It will not look pretty. But it will be worth it.

To my Mama...and all the other Women

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Sun, 12 May 2013 00:10:00 +0000

You needn't be a Mom to be celebrated today. You needn't have given birth to someone to have a positive impact on their life. You can influence kids without being called “Mommy”. This is for those women, the teacher’s and friends, the extended family and neighbors who have influenced me. They've shaped me and are part of who I am today.

So while we of course honor Mother’s today… I want to honor those of you who aren't- and thank you.

My Mom is one in a million- I want to be like her when I grow up. I think of her selfless love, her joy that comes only from the Lord, her gift of encouragement, her discernment of people and her laugh that echoes the halls. I want all of it ( I already know I have her laugh so that’s covered) Watching her walk through cancer and now helping other’s through that journey has been one of the biggest blessings in my life.

There are other women in my life that have shaped me. Some of them are Mom’s and some are not. I want to honor those women too…because they have made me who I am today.

My Sunday school teacher’s Luwayne and Mary from Willakenzie in Eugene. I remember the songs, the flannel board stories, the Christmas programs.

Kathy, the Mom of my dearest childhood friend and her silly socks, her gentle words, her treating me as one of her own. Today she shows me what a wife married to a Pastor looks like. Weathering the storm and standing by your man and your ministry.

I think about Marilynwho is with Jesus now, where she sat in church, how she loved my family and took care of me while my sister was being born. A Grandmother- but not by blood.

I think about my Kindergarten teacher, Ms. Olsen and how she loved me. How she made me feel special.

My music teacher in grades Kindergarten-Third, Mrs. Adams- and how I knew I was her favorite. I couldn't sing but she made me feel like I could do anything…her class was always open to me and her hugs were the best.

My last teacher in Eugene, Mrs. Henry. I didn't even finish my whole third grade year, but she came to my wedding almost 10 years later. Talk about making an impact. She always stayed in touch and just recently retired. I am sure I am not the only one she made feel so special.

Mrs. Nelson from Howard. She is the first one to call me out as a writer. She helped me get a poem published and to this day I will credit her for fostering in me the love of writing.

When we moved from Eugene to Medford and I thought my life was over, I met Connie. She was the Pastor’s wife of our new church and she saw in me a leader and called me out. She will forever remain one of the most influential people in my life. Watching her own life, modeled before me. The grace, compassion and strength in her helped shape me.

Vikki, she started out mentoring me as a young engaged woman and turned into one of my best friends. Holding me accountable, teaching me gentleness and to love the Word. Everyone needs a Vikki in their life.

My volleyball Coach, Susan. She taught me that I could push myself farther, that I could endure. That I had more in me than I realized.

My math teacher Debbie Knapp. I was horrible at math (still am)…she took extra time to get me through my classes. She was patient and she actually cared that I passed. I will never forget that. And when I accidentally threw a flashlight at her, she still loved me.

The school secretary Kelly Lemley. She was such a supporter of me, in everything I did…and she still does that.

My Literature and Drama teacher, Miss Beeler. She challenged me in my school work, to be disciplined and she saw something in me that gave me the confidence I needed to take hold of a role as a Freshman with gusto. She pushed me and that hasn't gone to waste.

My Mom’s best friend Lynette- she’s been an extension of our family for as long as I can remember. Her love and friendship to our family has taught me that you needn't not be blood related to be family. Being a Mom of two boys, she’s showed me what the future is like, watching her son’s dote on her now is a beautiful thing.

Mary Hixsontaught me about hospitality and continues to teach me that age is not a barrier and that generations can work together in the Kingdom work. She continues to be a source of encouragement and love.

Linda taught me unconditional love as she walked her husband and best friend through cancer and into Heaven. She taught me strength in Jesus as she battled her own cancer shortly thereafter and other than my Mom, she is the one who I clearly see the Joy of the Lord in at all times.

Becky Doud- she taught me to love being a wife and Mom. She taught me about Jesus, about joy, about relishing my role, and how to Worship unabashedly.

Peggy Atkinson taught me what it looks like to stand by your man, especially in the ministry. She’s also loved my man as a son and that will forever impact me.

My Mother-in-Law- her continual sacrifices of love challenge me daily. Her love for Jesus and other’s is infectious. She teaches me to endure.

My Grandma. The definition of strength, and living for the Lord. Her entire life is a story of enduring and trusting the Lord and her legacy carries on.

Kathleen, my best friend since 7^th grade. She’s taught me to rely on God when all else fails. She has taught me to live fearless.

These women, and so many more have a piece of my heart and have taught me so much.

So on this day of Mother’s- I want to honor you all. Mother’s and Aunt’s and Sister’s and Grandmother’s, and friends and teachers and mentors. Thank you. Bless you.

Woman... woe-man... whoah, man!

If you know what movie this is from you are awesome.

What's Goin' On

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Thu, 09 May 2013 16:26:00 +0000

This time last year it was way rainy and yucky. We've had our thunderstorms the last week, but for the most part this spring has been sunny and lovely!
The boys are loving being outside and roaming the big backyard.

This is the first time we've been able to let them off our deck to roam, and they are loving exploring. I think they like it better when Daddy is outside because they dig and pull weeds and that's more fun than chalk and bubbles apparently.

Lunch Al Fresco

When did they become this big?!

Jack has 3 weeks left of Preschool! He loves going, so I know he will miss it over the summer but it will be nice to not work around the schedule for a few months!

Speaking of a few months......3 until Jack turns 5. I'm sorta flipping out about this one. 5 always sounded so big and so far off to me. It's like a milestone Birthday to me, like 10 and 16....5 just seems way old.

He was interviewed for a "kid's focus day" at church and I didn't know about it. They played the video and I totally cried.

Teacher: "Jack, what is your favorite Bible story?"

Jack " I like David and the giant and Jonah and the Whale too"

Teacher: "Why do you like Jonah and the Whale?"

Jack: "Because he prayed and then listened to God even after he was naughty"

Teacher: "Jack, what is Heaven like?"

Jack: "Well, Heaven is like a home..."

Died. Right there. He's LISTENING!!!!!

First time doing this and Jack was hitting them over the fence....STUD

The twins are so vocal and hold these insane conversations, and with each other and other people. It's crazy how much they talk.

They have the best manners and are always saying "bless you" when you sneeze.

We have some fun months ahead!

I get to go away with a good friend next weekend to the coast for a few days. So looking forward to this little retreat!

At the end of the month Trevor and I are going to Disneyland WITHOUT the kids! WAHOO!

Starbucks Happy Hour

Happy 10 Year Anniversary to us!
We of course, aren't telling Jack until we get home haha.

June brings a little trip to Portland with my Mom to do two Trades of Hope parties! I get to see my best friend, and hopefully eat where she is working! She just graduated top of her class in culinary school and will be working at a fabulous restaurant in downtown Portland. She's pretty amazing.

Early morning snuggles with my Bear

A little ankle updation:
I am doing really well and have begun doing a run/walk program to rehab myself! Hoping to be running 3 miles 3x a week in 6 weeks. So far it's feeling great!
My ultimate goal is the Half-Marathon I signed up for in September!!!

Jack and his cousin Miles. How handsome are they!?

Meet Chloe. My sister and brother-in-law got a Doggy! YAY!

Spring but feels like Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Thu, 09 May 2013 07:00:00 +0000

I think we need a bigger pool :)

He ran, he jumped, he slipped and fell. Stood up and said YAY!!

I love that I caught this

Exciting News!

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Thu, 02 May 2013 03:11:00 +0000

Exciting News!!

For all my local family and friends:

We have a new amazing fundraiser going on!

My sweet friend Lacie from Lacie Lauree Photography has shared this on her blog......

“Adoption is rewarding. But the process, as we have already detailed in some particulars, can be expensive, exhausting, and hard to sustain on a dream, much less a whim.”
― Scott Simon, Baby, We Were Meant for Each Other: In Praise of Adoption

Do you want to do something beautiful for God? There is a person who needs you. This is your chance.
Mother Teresa

I have always felt that God has given me this love and this gift of photography. What I also love is to be able to use this gift to give back, to help others.

This is the Bowen family.

I keep writing words and then deleting them because nothing seems to say exactly what I feel or am thinking. So here it is in a nutshell version.

Krystle and I went to high school together. Friends in high school, lost touch, Facebook brought us back together when we were both pregnant with our sons. Ever since then it’s been a beautiful, blessed, and solid friendship. I admire her for every ounce that she is. Her husband is pretty rad too! And her kiddos…… complete blessings.

This family has a heart of gold. But not only that, they have a heart full of the love of Jesus. So full in fact that they want to pour that love out on another kiddo. Krystle, Trever, Jack, Christian and Camden would love to add another child into their home. This has been something that the Lord has really been speaking to them. Krystle is a CE for Trades of Hope and had the opportunity to travel to Haiti to see the products made by the people there. While there she visited an orphanage. Once home the decision was made… LET’S DO THIS.

From their site: We are beyond excited to start the process of adoption. We are stepping into this with great anticipcation and prayer. We know the road ahead of us with have many ups and downs, surprises and dissapoinment. We also know that we are not walking through this alone!The Lord has clearly laid this on our hearts and we are confident in his provision for us both emotionally and financially. Adoption is expensive. The cost ranges from $18,000-$30,000 and we can’t afford it without help. We are committed to doing our part and are also reaching out and asking you to help us bring home Bowen Baby #4!

My heart would be so full if you would help me gift to this family and help in their fund for adoption.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? HOW CAN YOU BE A PART OF THIS INCREDIBLE JOURNEY?

~~~~~

BID on this awesome photo session.
What does it include?
You get your choice of
1 Family Session of up to 5 people, 1-2 Hour Session, 1 Location, online gallery to share with friends and family, a custom thumb drive with ALL of your processed images!
or you can choose
2 mini sessions for the rest of the 2013 year. Do a summer session and then a fall/winter session. A mini session is a 30 minute session, 1 location, online gallery to share with friends and family and once again ALL of your processed images!

CLICK ON HERE TO BE TAKEN TO THE EBAY (HAVE TO KEEP IT LEGIT) LISTING!

Please help support an AMAZING journey! With your help the Bowen family will be able to be SO much closer in the adoption and you get family pictures!

You do not want to miss out on this auction!

If you have any questions at all please send an email to lacielaureephotography@gmail.com

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
♥ Lacie

Once again here is the link http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230974142221

BID! BID! BID! BID! BID! BID!

Other ways you can help.

Click HERE to be taken to their official fundraiser site.

Click HERE to be taken to Krystle Bowen, CE for Trades of Hope. All her profits go to the adoption fund!

Wasted....the scoop

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:02:00 +0000

I feel I have been a bit quiet here on the blog lately.

Posting about Trades of Hope and adoption stuff...but otherwise fairly quiet.

Don't mistake that for not much happening!

I have been asked to be a contributor over at Earth Monkey Moms, I would love for you to follow over there. Amazing women encouraging Mom's.

I will also be contributing in another place soon, and I am very excited about that....God has just kind of been dropping things in my lap lately and I'm having to say no to some good stuff. Trying to filter it through my gifting and passions, even though they are all good things.

We are seeing God move in some amazing ways in our friends, and family and our community. I have mentioned before we are without a senior pastor right now, and in this interim time we are seeing some incredible things come about.

We are in for a crazy ride, who knows where God will take us. I'm excited. Scared too...but I would rather be no where else than in the path of Him...no matter how scary or dangerous it may look.

I wrote a poem/song a few months back. November actually. When God really began stirring in my heart and I was putting words to my thoughts and my feelings about it all.

I've held onto it, not knowing if I should share it or not. I feel it's time.

I hope this serves as an encouragement to you, if you are feeling like God is doing something but you aren't sure you are ready. I hope in inspires you to seek Him and allow Him to do with you what you want.

This inspired the tattoo I got on my foot "waste me on you". I believe it with every beat, every breath and every step.

Photo Dump- Twins

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:06:00 +0000

I am going to give you a big huge photo dump.

These boys are so darn fun and cute and these pictures make me smile.

27 Months and counting....

Are you okay with being invisible?

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 22:17:00 +0000

Been struggling with something lately.....

How do we inspire others to change, and to be the change without making it about us?

How do we love on people, and step outside of our comfort zone, and yet...not draw attention to us?

Sometimes we make a big deal out of something that's done, when in reality it's just what we are all called to do.

How do we urge one another on and be a catalyst for change without bringing it back around to us?

Can we quietly do what we are called to do, and pray that word spreads about what is being done but be okay if it never comes back to us? Can we be okay with our name never being mentioned along with the awesome deed? I have had to ask myself these questions lately. Is it okay to be invisible in all of this? My friend Jenna has challenged me to this. Can I live my whole entire life spilled out for Him, with virtually nothing tangible on this earth to show for it and be okay with it?

How do we as a church make waves but not spend Sunday morning clapping for ourselves and saying "good job us".

We have to be creative with this. We have to think it through and not think about ourselves.

Can we help someone on the side of the road and not tweet about it?

Can we surprise someone with groceries and not Facebook it?

Can we do what we are called to do anyway, and not toot our own horn?

Is it possible to live love out loud and yet not bring attention to ourselves?
Can we inspire without exclaiming? Can we leverage people to do the same without pride entering in?

Or do we live in a culture of "me me me" even in our supposedly selfless acts of love.......

We must love. We must be stretched. We must step outside of our comfort zones and do exactly as He has asked (this shouldn't be a surprise, this is the life you signed up for if you decided to follow Jesus...but maybe it got lost in the Americanized version of following Jesus....)

Let's work on this, I know I need to.....this 100% selfless love..........

TWO Giveaway's and the last week of our Thirty-One Fundraiser!!

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:24:00 +0000

This is the last week for our adoption fundraiser through Thirty-One

(sponsored by Kirsten of One Tough Mother)

If you want to place an order, it needs to be done by midnight on April 26th!

Here are those instructions:

There are TWO giveaways this week!! Thank you for supporting our adoption!

A special bonus is if you order something you get extra entries!! :)

Prize Pack #1 includes a Large Zipper Pouch in a gorgeous black and white print, perfect to keep your makeup together in your purse. Also included is a Strawberry zipper pouch for your loose change, and a Key Fob.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prize Pack #2 includes a Littles Carry-All in a cute turquoise pattern, a Key Fob in a matching print, and a Nail File. The Carry-All is great for use in an office or craft room.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

When You are Overwhelmed by Tragedy

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000

It can be so overwhelming. The tragedy. The ache of loss. The senseless evil that exists.

It can be easy to feel hopeless, to want to give up and raise our arms and say "I'm done".

To keep our kids home, to not travel, to live in a bubble of fear and caution.

Would be so easy...to just get by, flying under the radar.

But...we are called to more. We are called to walk in faith and not in fear.

"The LORD is my light and my salvation-- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-- of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1

We are called to lift the arms of others when they cannot, standing in the gap for them in prayer

"When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up--one on one side, one on the other--so that his hands remained steady till sunset" Exodus 17:12

We are called to seek His face and trust Him even when it hurts and doesn't make sense.

"My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek"

Psalm 27:8

"In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?" Psalm 56:4

Some are calling for Jesus to return to us now.

There is much work to be done my friends. There is a field ripe with harvest of hurting people that need to hear of the good news. They need to know the end of this story.

"Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

Matthew 9:37-38

They need to know evil does NOT triumph in the end. That good wins out and that the battle has already been fought and won.

This is the time. The time to walk in confidence of the One who has rescued us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to rid the world of all evil.

Do not simply tuck yourself away from the evil because it's messy and painful.

Do not give in to fear and do not only think of yourselves and your own family.

Selfless love is what we are called to.

Let's live it out, this gospel. In the toughest, most ugliest times.....

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,

for the rights of all who are destitute.

Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Proverbs 31:8-9

Source Unkown

Top 25 Moms of Multiples

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 17:18:00 +0000

Hey friends!

I was nominated for Top 25 Moms of Multiples Blog!

You can vote once a day until May 8th by clicking the badge on my profile>>

Or this badge below!

Thanks for the love!

Giveaway #2! Thirty-One Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:39:00 +0000

Ready for another giveaway?!

Remember, this is all a part of a fundraiser for our adoption fund. Kirsten is giving her commissions from this party to us and doing a giveaway each week to get the word out!

Here is this weeks giveaway:

Here’s a style that will actually help you save money! Keep all your coupons handy and easy to find whenever you’re in the checkout line. It features five interior coupon pockets and five colored tabs so you can label each pocket.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For when those days just suck....

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000

You know what: I get burnt out being home all the time.

I get bored being at home sometimes. I get exhausted and tired and sometimes the lack of change in my day makes me nutty.

It doesn't mean I don't LOVE being home with my kids. It doesn't mean I don't thank the Lord each day that I get to do this. I know so many wish they could but can't. It doesn't mean I wish I was working outside the home, because even on my hardest days I fall into bed at night so thankful for this opportunity that presents itself in a sacrifice.

I am grateful. I am thankful.
I am beyond blessed and most of the time I relish it.

But these long days of little ones, the wiping of the boogers and the "No don't do that" every 5 minutes and the cleaning of the messes and the diffusing of fights and the never ending movement is exhausting and mind-numbing.

I think too often, those of us who are home with our kids all the time

are afraid that if we admit we feel this way we are bad Moms.

We feel we have to keep up the

"this is so awesome all the time I just love it, even the hard days..." facade.

We believe that if we admit some days (or weeks) just downright suck we are somehow telling people we wish we didn't stay home all the time, or that those in the working world tell us they could never ever ever do what we do would get some sort of satisfaction that they were right, or that we aren't cut out for this- the hardest job of all.

None of that is true.

You, Mama who stays home all the time with your littles....you are putting that pressure on yourself. You are putting standards on your emotions that are not remotely fair.

You have bad days. You have really bad days where you think "what the heck am I doing?!"

And that's okay.

Sometimes those days turn into weeks when the kids are teething and sick and tantruming (that isn't really a word but I'm going with it) and you have had very little adult conversation and maybe you have only showered a few times that week and you wore two different shoes to pick up your Preschooler and you've eaten chicken nuggets while standing at the counter more than once this week and you can't remember if you brushed your teeth.

And you know.....you KNOW that you are blessed. You know these days will soon pass and you have taken the advice to cherish the moments and count your blessings....but that doesn't mean you can't just say it stinks sometimes.

I give you permission to say so. To say that the hard days suck because it feels good to be honest and forthright with yourself.

Don't feel guilty for not feeling super spunky about your days at home all the time. That's just more exhaustion in the making.

There are many a blog post about cherishing the little moments, being grateful for them and helping you get perspective and they are good and I read them often....

But someday's I just wanna say "it just kinda sucks today" and feel safe doing that.

And the good days far outweigh the crappy days.... thank heavens :)

Above pictures represent one of those bad days.

I gave up and just let them jump off the sofa and took pics :)

Earth Monkey Moms!

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 02:11:00 +0000

Hey friends!

Happy weekend!

I'm super excited to say that I will be a regular face over here at Earth Monkey Moms!

It's an authentic Mom community that also has some amazing eco-friendly one of a kind products!

Go check EMM out and my blog post as well!

Hope you'll follow along over there and meet the other amazing Mom's!

Easter Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000

Easter weekend was good.

We got a little crafty.

We went to church.

We ate food with family.

The boys hunted eggs.

It was good.

Man. They are gorgeous.

Don't forget I have a fundraiser going on here and there is also a giveaway!

AND a Trades of Hope giveaway over here!

Guest over at Mercy Ink Blog!!! And a Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 15:31:00 +0000

I think most people want to live a better story. If you asked around I think most people would say they are not satisfied with the status quo. They want to be involved, they want to make a difference and see change happen. They desire justice too. They just aren't sure where to start.

If we look at the word poverty and the statistics that follow, it’s overwhelming. Where do we even start? How can we possible tackle this beast with our own hands, while raising families and getting through our own lives................

Read more and enter to win $30 to Trades of Hope by clicking this link

Fundraising For Adoption- Thirty-One Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000

Say Hello to the Month of Thirty-One!

ALL month long you can help us raise money for our ADOPTION fund!!

Kirsten from One Tough Mother has been so generous and kind and I am so honored she is taking part in this with us!

Here are the details:

- Fundraiser will be open for ordering April 2-26. All orders must be submitted by midnight April 26th.

- 20% of all orders will go directly to Krystle Bowen and family to assist in their adoption efforts

- There will be a giveaway each week (4 weeks = 4 giveaways)

They have the cutest stuff!!!

This week's giveaway: U R U Keep-It Caddy in Pink Floral Brushstrokes, valued at $22

Giveaway open from April 2 - April 6

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Maybe a gift for Mother's Day?

Tweet about it.
Facebook about it.
Blog about it.

Big virtual hugs to my new friend Kirsten for her generosity and big hugs to all of you!
Go visit her and give her some love too!

Background of Thirty-One

Thirty-One was founded in 2003 by Cindy Monroe in Ohio as a means to help financially support her family, as well as stay home with her children. Thirty-One has quickly grown to be one of the largest direct sales companies in the country. The name "Thirty-One" comes from Proverbs 31, the Proverb of a Capable Woman. Thirty-One celebrates, encourages, and rewards women by helping them build a business of their own, contribute financially to their family, and give them confidence to be an independent business owner. Thirty-One's products are both useful and beautiful, and most products can be customized with personalization for a small additional charge.

About Kirsten

Kirsten Thompson is a full-time working wife and mom who fell in love with the company and products offered by Thirty-One. She joined Thirty-One in February 2012 and enjoys the opportunities to have a Girl's Night Out and make some extra money on the side! Kirsten also blogs at One Tough Mother where she shares craft projects, home decor, and organizational ideas. For information on the opportunity of Thirty-One, or for questions regarding your order or personalization, contact Kirsten at kthompson0412@gmail.com. Connect with Kirsten throughOne Tough Mother through Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Fundraising Teaser....

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 07:00:00 +0000

hey. social media is cool.

no really. i know it can be a pain and cause issues and you need to moderate it.

but it can also bring some amazing things about.

like new friends who are walking the same road you are

and other new friends who see your tweet and offer to do a fundraiser for you and they don't even know you

seriously cool.

April 1st will bring a new fundraiser for our adoption fund and I'm super excited about it!

Stay tuned!

Heartline Haiti- The Esther Clutch

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 15:24:00 +0000

Heartline was a breath of fresh air.

The mango trees shaded the outdoor work area where women were cutting and pinning, and inside the steady hum of manual sewing machines.

These women, hard at work creating beautiful clutch's that we would soon be selling.

These women. These amazing women have been able to escape abusive relationships because of this opportunity. They can support themselves and don't have to rely on someone who beats them, for their food and shelter.They send their kids to school, they feed their entire family. They are free.

"Heartline Ministries is a 501(c)(3) faith based organization formed to operate an orphanage, women’s program and other programs in Port-au-Prince Haiti. The organization was established in September of 2000 to formalize the independent work of John & Beth McHoul, who are the founding directors of the organization. John & Beth McHoul have been working in Haiti for over 20 years.

Our approach deals with the whole person, so Heartline is involved in many humanitarian, educational and faith based activities.

In 2007, we started our women’s program. The women’s program currently houses our Sewing, Beading and Cooking programs. The sewing class is six-months long and gives the women of the program the chance to make purses that are sold in the states at Purse Parties. The Beading class is a eight-week learning program. Once they master the art of making beads, they also have the chance to sell their items both online and at our two merchandise stores in Haiti. The ultimate goal of the program is to empower women to take control of their lives emotionally, spiritually and financially.

In 2010, our Maternity Center was brought to reality with a very busy birthing room and classrooms where both pre-natal and post-birth child development classes are taught weekly. We have one midwife on staff and many other who have a heart for the program who are a great help!"
(above description taken directly from Heartline's website as to accurately explain their mission)

After the women graduate Heartline's sewing program, they have the option of making purses and jewelry for Haitian Creations. They sell through parties, online store and through us at Trades of Hope!

Gorgeous Bags

Fabric Beads

Haitian Creation's sets up savings accounts for these women so that they are able to save their money up in a secure way.
Chandler (who is in charge of Haitian Creations) told us that many women were able to sustain themselves through and after the Earthquake in 2010 because of their savings accounts.

Heartline's Maternity Center is in the process of breaking new ground and they are actively fundraising. Maybe you heard about Barry and his run across Haiti?!

Chandler shared with us the statistics in Haiti involving rape, maternal death and infant death.

It's mind-numbing.

Heartline is not a band-aid, it's a beautiful place of empowerment, education, love and support.

I can't wait to return.

Oh, and that clutch they were working on?
Chandler gave as simple sketch to one of the artists and she ran with it.....

her name is Esther, so it was only fitting the clutch would be named for her.

Esther and our founders!

You can purchase an Esther Clutch today by clicking here!
The clutch zippers shut and has an inside pocket where the artisan has signed her name!

It fits any e-reader as well as an i-Pad Mini!

my commission goes toward our adoption fund!

Miscellany Monday- a day late (and a winner!)

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 21:28:00 +0000

happy tuesday miscellany monday.

1) i get my stitches out tomorrow. i am ready to shower my leg. seriously. 2 weeks since i have gotten the full thing wet and it's time.

gross right?

2) i love sports. i love the nfl, nba, volleyball, tennis, and ncaa men's basketball. i really love college sports. and it's march. so that means....

filled out my bracket and i'm ready to roll.

and since it's march madness and all, how about a little 10% off your coffee from my just love coffee shop?! Great coffee, a great coupon and you help us fund our adoption! win win win.

click this link and go grab yo-self some java.

3) winner of the mercy house kenya giveaway (as selected by random.org) was Nancy.

but I decided to give away two, so the second winner was Emily. :)

if i don't hear from either of you be Thursday evening, I will let random.org pick a new winner!

email me at krystle(dot)bowen@gmail(dot)com with your address please!

4) these boys. are my heart.

Adoption Fundraising in FULL swing!

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 21:51:00 +0000

i am so excited about all of this!

we have kicked off our fundraising for adoption and i will keep updating the blog as we add more!

here are the ways you can help now

1) PRAY

duh right?!

2) FOLLOW ALONG

Follow my blog for updates

3) DONATE

You can donate directly using this widget which will always be on the sidebar!

4) SHOPBuy fair-trade products from me via Trades of Hope anytime using this linkKrystle's TRADES OF HOPE shop!
Buy some really yummy coffee!We are fundraising with Just Love Coffee!Fair Trade, Direct Trade and organic shade grown beans!We get a significant portion of your purchase if you buy through THIS LINK.There will always be a link on the sidebar of my blog as well!It is really good coffee!

Next month I am doing a fundraiser with Thirty-One!

Here is a little peek at what that's all about!

Thank you all so much for your love and support!

Bye Bye Google Reader

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:56:00 +0000

you probably heard Google Reader is phasing out and all that, by July 1st

Don't miss out on my updates and blog posts!

You can follow 3 Little Men & a Mommy via Blog Lovin'

Click the link on the sidebar or the one below to get stay connected!

Mercy House- Kenya GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 07:00:00 +0000

I've shared before my dream for opening a house for Teen Mom's or Mom's who otherwise have no place to go.

Either in the U.S. or another country, at some point I know it will happen.

Mercy House Kenya is one such house and I am honored to share with you today about it!

Here is a quick history of Mercy House as told on their website:

The Welch Family
"We are just a simple family who said yes when God asked." Terrell and Kristen have been married for 17 years and are raising three children. Kristen writes the parenting blog, We are THAT family.

In March of 2010, she traveled to Kenya, Africa, with Compassion International, the world's largest child sponsorship program, to blog their relief efforts in the slums of Nairobi. She was especially burdened visiting Mathare Valley, one of Africa's largest slums. Just days after returning home, Kristen read a heartbreaking article by CNN about the large number of backstreet abortions by girls forced into prostitution to feed their families.

Maureen Owino
While in Kenya, Kristen met Maureen, one of Compassion's leadership graduates, a former sponsored child. Maureen is single, 27 years old and speaks 5 languages. She traveled to the Unites States in the summer of 2010 on behalf of Compassion International to speak to thousands of students at Student Life Camps. Her moving life story led to the sponsorship of more than a thousand impoverished children.

She has since become a very dear friend of the Welch family. Just weeks after returning from Africa, Kristen emailed Maureen and asked if she knew of any ministries reaching out or offering an alternative to the young girls having backstreet abortions. She didn't know of any.

Maureen partnered with Terrell and Kristen to pray specifically about these precious girls. Four months later, God spoke to Maureen's heart and birthed a vision to help these girls. When Maureen emailed Kristen with this news, both knew that God was beginning a good work. The Welch family lives in America and mobilize people to give with the help of supportive friends, family and blog readers. Maureen is in Kenya with the language, education, leadership skills and the heart to be the hands of feet of Jesus.

In the summer of 2010, The Mercy Maternity House was formed to support the work Maureen will be doing. Maureen is the full-time as the Executive Director of Rehema House (word for mercy in Swahili) in Kenya. While she works in Africa, The Welch family raise money and awareness while supporting Maureen and her staff.

As of November 2012, the maternity home houses 8 girls and 8 babies and a handful of staff members. We give glory to God for all that He has done and we covet your prayers.

Talk about being on the same page right?! Mercy House has a "Mercy Shop" which supports the house. The items they sell support the house and it's girls and many of the items are made by the women in the house itself (LOVE!)

I was sent two items to review and I love them both! The first is a bag made by the women of Freeset! Freeset has partnered with Mercy House, so not only are you providing for Mercy House but also for the women from Freeset who have escaped sex trafficking in Calcutta, India!

These bags are super roomy and stylish, each month there is a different color! There is also an internal pouch with a zipper!

The second item is a beautiful shirt that has beautiful wings and a heart on the front that signifiies how God's hand is on each one of us. On the back is the website for Mercy House. Not only stylish, but a fantastic advertisement for Mercy House!

Mercy Shop offers FREE shipping if you spend over $50, just put BIGSPENDER in the code at checkout!

And because this is all just so cool, I'm going to be giving away one of their Farmhouse Totes!

Just leave a comment below telling me something you learned about Mercy House after visiting their website and I will let random.org choose a winner on MONDAY March 18th!

Freed to Fly- A story from Haiti

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 15:47:00 +0000

I will always be amazed at people who can see

the potential of something before it's beautiful

They see what it can become before others do. And then they make it beautiful.

They have the vision and the talent.

Meet Michele-Brutel.

He turns this

into this:

Freed to Fly

And what's even more amazing? He does it with 4 tools.

As we pulled up to this area called Croix de Bouquet and hopped out of the tap-tap, we saw little houses or shops side by side, men standing on the outside, waiting for us to enter so we could see their handiwork.

They call it "tin-city" and these men make something beautiful out of something ugly and it's changing their lives.

This specific piece is made by Michele and his employees, a few men who put food on their own table and several of their family members tables as well.

When we asked Michele what this means to him, his working and selling his products to us he lights up. His daughter is in school. She is planning to go to University and be
come a doctor.

Without selling his products, school is out of the question. That comes after food of course. It's an opportunity not everyone has and he is grateful to provide it for his daughter.

Isn't that how we all feel? The desire to take care of our family and provide for them, giving them the opportunity to succeed, that exists everywhere. Every country, every language.

Just think, Michele sends his daughter to university and she is given the opportunity to live a dream. She becomes a doctor, changing her life and her families. Her future children will live a different life. The cycle is broken.

An opportunity.

A change.

A chance.

And it wasn't because of a hand-out or charity. It was because he was given an opportunity and the joy and pride (the good kind) is what he feels knowing he can support and provide for his child and the generations that follow.

I am beyond humbled to partner with Michele and others like him. A link in the chain.

to purchase a Freed to Fly cross or find out more about Trades of Hope, click this link

Ankle Updation

noreply@blogger.com (Krystle) — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 05:06:00 +0000

I will be back with more Haiti stories next week I promise!

I had surgery on my ankle Thursday and have been on my butt with my foot up since.

No fun.

I have my post-op appointment in 11 days and if I'm doing good I can't start on an exercise bike. After my 6 week appointment, if all is well I can start back into a walk/run routine and hopefully be back running shortly thereafter.

We still aren't sure how a piece of bone broke off and found its way into my ankle joint. Could have been when I had the stress fracture, could have been from a past ankle turn and it just was dormant until the other injury.
Who knows.

Good thing is, although there was some damage done to the cartilage he didn't do anything with it. We are hopeful it won't give me any issues in the future!

This doing nothing thing has really been a test of patience for sure :)

3 Little Men & a Mommy

Kingdom Minded

To my Mama...and all the other Women

What's Goin' On

Spring but feels like Summer

Exciting News!

Wasted....the scoop

Photo Dump- Twins

Are you okay with being invisible?

TWO Giveaway's and the last week of our Thirty-One Fundraiser!!

When You are Overwhelmed by Tragedy

Matthew 9:37-38

Proverbs 31:8-9

Top 25 Moms of Multiples

Giveaway #2! Thirty-One Gifts

For when those days just suck....

Earth Monkey Moms!

Easter Weekend

Guest over at Mercy Ink Blog!!! And a Giveaway!

Fundraising For Adoption- Thirty-One Gifts

Fundraising Teaser....

*Heartline Haiti*- The Esther Clutch

Miscellany Monday- a day late (and a winner!)

Adoption Fundraising in FULL swing!

Bye Bye Google Reader

Mercy House- Kenya *GIVEAWAY*

Freed to Fly- A story from Haiti

Ankle Updation

Heartline Haiti- The Esther Clutch

Mercy House- Kenya GIVEAWAY