tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64797738719213821282024-03-14T02:42:14.124-05:00Hope for those going through infertility & infant loss, faith HopeInTheWaitingKristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.comBlogger423125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-13037982277707465492016-08-06T14:56:00.000-05:002018-06-17T14:28:05.626-05:00Room for More, Part 2People have been asking all sorts of questions about our upcoming adoption. I am so excited about that. One of our prayers, is that others will want to adopt because of our experience. So I thought the easiest way to answer them all would be in a questions and answer format. So here we go:<br />
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<b>1. Domestic or International?</b><br />
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Domestic<br />
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<b>2. Boy or Girl?</b><br />
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Our house has loads of estrogen so we are looking at adding some testosterone into the family. We are so excited to add a little boy or boys to our family. Yes, we are boldly praying for twin boys.<br />
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<b>3. What agency are you going through?</b><br />
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We signed a contract with Faithful Adoption Consultants in Georgia. We have friends who have used them and had wonderful experiences, so we were very excited when they accepted us. We have loved everyone that we have talked with at FAC so far. The neat thing about their agency is that everyone who works there has adopted at least once, many multiple times. They know what it's like to be in our shoes. They also fervently pray for their waiting families. I love knowing we are being covered in prayer. If you aren't familiar with a consultant agency let me explain. FAC works with about 75 or more adoption agencies all over the country. Going through a consultant agency helps speed up the process because they work with so many agencies. Most of the agencies they work with have a relinquishment period of 24-72 hours. More than likely we will travel out of state to pick up our son(s). FAC's average waiting period is 4 months. They've never had a couple wait longer than 10 months. Some couples go live and within the week get the call the baby is on the way. This is exciting and terrifying all at the same time. So, as you can imagine I am trying to finish paperwork, decorate a nursery and now start homeschooling on top of it all. It's a crazy time, but my heart could burst from all the excitement and anticipation. <br />
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<b>4. Who did you home study?</b><br />
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Joanne Zambo at Adoption Promises in Smyrna did our home study. She rocked! I can't recommend her enough. Not only was she the least expensive, she was able to get it done in 3 weeks. That's crazy fast. She also only required 2 visits instead of 3.<br />
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<b>5. So where are you in the process?</b><br />
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So we have signed on with FAC and are compiling all the paperwork they need. Y'all I am not joking when I say that I have over 100 pages of agency applications to fill out. Plus we are working on our birth mom book. This is the most important piece of the whole process. So thankful I have an awesome husband to help out with everything. He has taken over the book as his project and I couldn't be more thrilled. We are blessed to have a friend who is going to make it look pretty. He's a graphic designer so this is a no brainer for him and y'all he's good. I can't wait to see the final result. By doing it ourselves we are saving around $750. If you have adopted, you know that the average cost is about $40,000 so anyway we can save money, we will do it.<br />
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I think that answers most of the questions. Thank you for being excited for us. We covet your prayers for us and the birth family. Adoption is a beautiful journey, but not one without pain and heartache. I love this quote by Judy Landers. Even though we don't know our birthmother yet, we pray for her daily. She is already a hero in our eyes.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sK3OfySwWeY/V6Y-9Ng_WrI/AAAAAAAACh4/MiFFuXvybzEJb-tpzgLNUihkZd7yMGi2gCK4B/s1600/Jody-Landers-Quote-Adoption-600x600.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sK3OfySwWeY/V6Y-9Ng_WrI/AAAAAAAACh4/MiFFuXvybzEJb-tpzgLNUihkZd7yMGi2gCK4B/s1600/Jody-Landers-Quote-Adoption-600x600.jpg" /></a>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-11647425966983736092016-07-28T15:08:00.003-05:002018-06-17T14:28:20.822-05:00Room for More, Part 1It all started with Sydney. For over 2 years now she has been praying for a baby brother or brothers. She has such a sweet sensitive heart and she loves little children. She is so good with young kids and it's a joy to watch her care for them. (Here she is reading to Ladd. This is such a beautiful picture to me because we helped Ladd's parents bring him home).<br />
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After we lost Jonathan over 5 years ago and after suffering from a ruptured ectopic pregnancy last year, the chances of getting pregnant and having a baby were slim to none. However, I do believe God can and still performs miracles, so I have always been open to that. I prayed that if that was not His plan for us that He would take the ache away. That longing to have another biological child finally went away, but not the desire to continue to grow our family. I often hear from women who say they had a peace in their hearts when they knew their family was completed. I have never had that peace. Brian and I both come from large families and that has always been our desire from the day we said "I do". We just never knew the heartache that would come trying to build our family.<br />
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I was thankful to have a music career in my twenties and early thirties. I always knew I wanted to be a singer. I am so thankful God blessed me with those years of ministry and being on the road. Those will always be some of the best years of my life. The only other job I ever wanted to have was that of wife and mom. I love being a mom and I love homeschooling and being home with my girls. Nothing brings me greater joy. I am molding and shaping my children and trying to raise young women who will follow and serve the Lord. It's exhausting and exhilarating all at the same time.<br />
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Am I nervous and scared about adopting, absolutely. Here's the deal though, nothing in life that is worth anything is ever easy and without sacrifice. Do I want to hyperventilate when I think about the fact that I will most likely have 8 year olds, when my girls go to college? Yes. I quickly have realized though that what God calls you to, He will provide the courage and the strength to do it. We aren't called to a comfortable life friends. We are called to care for the least of these. If you've adopted you know this verse very well. James 1:27 "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world".<br />
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Room for More, Part 2 coming tomorrow......Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-6294429004470584712016-07-26T21:37:00.000-05:002016-07-28T15:09:21.246-05:00Our family news<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We are excited to share with y'all our happy news. It's official. We are adopting! </span><br />
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Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-29077304640342339762016-07-25T16:00:00.004-05:002018-06-17T14:29:16.775-05:00Come Alive<br />
The older I get the more I come into my own skin. I know who I am and I know who I belong to. I also become more aware of the spiritual world and the forces around us at work, both good and evil. I desire to raise children that know the Holy Spirit on a deep and personal level. The other day I had a conversation with the girls about why we left our last church. I won't mention the name, but in a nutshell I never heard the name of the Holy Spirit mentioned from the pulpit. I enjoyed the pastor and the people and that's what kept us there longer than we probably should have stayed. As we were chatting about it Sydney said, "Mommy you can't have just Jesus and God. You have to have the Holy Spirit too". At 9, she gets the Trinity. Jesus left a free gift to us in the Holy Spirit. So many Christians, including myself, forget this crucial part of Christianity. We walk around hopeless and defeated, racked with anxiety and fear. This is not living friends. He has so much more for us.<br />
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I am thankful the Holy Spirit led us back to a place that is familiar to us, with an amazing pastor, one who is longing for revival. We are getting ready to embark on something life changing for our family and I will tell you I have had many thoughts of inadequacies and "what the heck are we doing moments". These thoughts are straight from the pit of hell. We know God has called us for such a time as this. That's where I must rely on the Holy Spirit to put the devil in its place and to ask for more of Him. Doubt, confusion, worry, fear, etc. all come from the enemy. <br />
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What are you fearing today? What are you believing God for, but questioning if He will really come through for you? Brian and I had a lunch meeting today and I was reminded that anytime you step outside of your comfort zone and believe God will show up and doing the remarkable, you will always be faced with opposition. Satan is on the prowl and ready to devour anyone standing in his way. We are living in times where Christians must take up the armor of God and go to battle. The battle that is fought and won on our knees. We have to pray like we have never prayed before. I am constantly talking to the Lord throughout my day. It really is the only way I make it. It may sound cliche' but it is so true. I continually have to ask Him to fill me up. One way we do that is to listen to worship music in our home. We are huge Lauren Daigle fans at our house. We have her record on repeat at our house, that is if I am not listening to a podcast. That's another blog post coming soon. Enjoy this video of one of my favorites and be reminded that the Holy Spirit is waiting for you draw near to Him. Breathe O breath of God, Breathe.<br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-79889024913369975012016-07-17T15:11:00.000-05:002016-07-17T16:46:22.109-05:00He Makes All Things New<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I've sensed a calling in my spirit now for sometime to come back to blogging. A month ago I decided to get off Facebook. I knew it was taking up to much time. When you've spent more time on Facebook than time in the Word, it becomes an idol. I knew that had to change. I meant business this time, so I told Brian to change my password. I didn't want to have the opportunity to log in when I was feeling a moment of weakness. That made all the difference in the world. I have been faithful to what He has called me to do. Y'all it has been life changing. I told Brian last night that I don't miss Facebook at all. If you know me, however, you know I love to share my heart and thoughts. Facebook gave me that platform. Although, I know at times I didn't use it well. There is only so much you can share in so many words and I am afraid at times I came off harsh and insensitive. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">That was never my intent. With blogging, however, I am free to bare my soul in more just than a few words.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">God is moving in our family and I am excited to share some things with you in the next few months. We are on a new and crazy journey and I invite you along for the ride. It's been a long 12 year journey, but He is making ALL THINGS NEW. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The heartache He is replacing with Hope, tears with Joy and mourning with Dancing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Lord I worship you above all others. You carry me through the storms and valleys and you set my feet upon higher ground. To you be all the Glory, Honor and Praise forever and ever.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Delight in Him,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Krista</span>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-20596056958159303462013-05-07T20:54:00.000-05:002013-05-07T21:06:57.931-05:00Tuesday's Tip- Building a cleaning bucket for your kidsOk moms, you are gonna love today's Tuesday's tip. I guarantee it. A few months ago, shortly after Sydney turned 6, I decided it was time to teach them how to clean a bathroom. To be honest, I did it out of sheer exhaustion. I figured if we lived on a farm (that's my secret dream), they would've been working by now. So instead of collecting eggs from chickens (sigh!), they get to learn how to clean a bathroom. When I told them what we were going to do that day, you would have thought I had just announced we were going to Disneyland. They were that excited.<br />
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I divided the girls up. Sydney basically begged to clean the toilet. Um, ok sure. Have at it. Brooklyn wanted the sink. They actually did a really good job on their bathroom. They had so much fun. Who knew? Wish I would've started it earlier.<br />
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So here is my tip to get your kids to enjoy cleaning. Give them their own cleaning buckets or pails. Here's what you need:<br />
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1 bucket or pail</div>
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1 "magic wand"</div>
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1 sponge or rag</div>
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1 water bottle filled with water </div>
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an apron (optional)</div>
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You may have all the supplies you need already in your home. If not, you can create a bucket for around $5-$20 depending on how elaborate you want to get. Here's my cost breakdown.<br />
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Pail: $1 at Target.<br />
"Magic wands": $2.99 at Target.<br />
Rags: I already had them. Two pack from Trader Joes.<br />
Water bottle: $1 at Ikea<br />
Aprons (not pictured): Already had them<br />
<strong><em>My total cost: $4 per bucket</em></strong><br />
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Here's another tip. Fill the water bottle with plain old water. That way they can clean almost about anything and if they decide to have an impromptu water fight, it's not a big deal.<br />
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For the magic wand, I use half vinegar and half liquid soap. I love it. It works fantastically and it's non toxic for the kids.<br />
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A bit of caution. If you are a control freak like me, let me give you one piece of advice, Let it go! Chances are they will end up making more of a mess for you to clean up, but you know what, it's all worth it to see them learn and grow. They are not perfect. Far from it, but as I watched them clean my bathroom tonight, I got a small glimpse of the beautiful mothers they will make one day. My other piece of advice is stay close by. I was downstairs when they got started and by the time I got to my bathroom, here is what I saw.<br />
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So I had to give them a few rules, like don't climb up on a slippery counter. Yikes. Do you have any great ways you get your children to help around the house? I'd love to hear about them.<br />
<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-9188903445509639232013-02-25T20:00:00.000-06:002013-02-25T20:00:34.825-06:00Ode to my husbandI am blessed! Even when life is tough, I try to remember the blessings in my life. One of those blessing is my husband, Brian. Almost 12 years ago when we said, "for better or for worse, in sickness and in health," we never could have imagined how much we would be tested. This amazing man has stood by me over the last 8 years as we have suffered loss, not once, but twice and has watched me suffer debilitating dizziness every day. So, if you don't mind, I'd like to share with you a little bit about this man I call my husband.<br />
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He has an amazing heart for those less fortunate. He loves to serve the orphans and the widows. This is one of my favorite pictures that was taken while he was in Haiti just a few short weeks ago. He hadn't been to Haiti since the summer of 2010.<br />
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He is an amazing dad to our daughters. I love to just sit back and watch the way he gently instructs the girls and how he makes them think for themselves. I love to listen to him read to the girls at night. He has passed on his love of C.S. Lewis and the girls enjoy hearing him read the Chronicles of Narnia. I love how he takes them to dances and on dates. It's so important that my girls know how a man should treat them when they starting dating. Daddy makes sure they know how loved and valued they are.<br />
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Brian loves to run and compete in triathlons. I was so proud of him this last weekend when he competed in the Birmingham Mercedes Marathon and beat his PR by a landslide. This was his 3rd marathon (Boston 2008 & Miami 2010) and by far his fastest. I also love to watch how he encourages others to take up the sport. I can't tell you how many people have started running because of Brian's gentle encouragement.<br />
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Brian, I wanted to publicly thank you for being an incredible husband and father. I didn't want to wait until Father's Day or our anniversary to let you know how I felt. Today just seemed like the perfect day. I love you with all of my heart and I want to thank you for being such an amazing example of Jesus to me. I know at times it's been hard to watch me suffer and know there is really nothing you can do to help me, but pray. Those prayers mean the world to me. Thank you for helping around the house and caring for the girls, when I just simply can't. You are more than I could've ever asked for and I am so thankful God chose me to be your wife.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-258624203352705512013-02-15T10:58:00.000-06:002013-02-15T12:23:40.097-06:00OnwardI've missed blogging. I've missed you. That may sound strange because most of you who still read my blog, I probably will never have the chance of meeting, but I feel a connection to you. That's the funny thing about the blog world, you feel a sense of oneness with people you've never even met. For my sweet friends who know me in real life and have told me they have missed reading my blog posts, thank you. You don't know how much that means to me.<br />
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Most importantly, I've missed blogging for my sweet babies. Every year at Christmas time I make a blog book for my girls. They love them. I felt guilty that this Christmas there was no blog book for them under the tree. I was reminded of this the other day when Brooklyn took all 3 of her books to bed and was reading them. Then Sydney, who is just learning how to read her sight words, chimed in and asked if I would read them to her. They love to read the stories and look at the pictures of when they were much younger. This is why I blog. I miss giving them these stories. <br />
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With that said, I'm back. I have alot of catching up to do. Yikes. They are getting so big and I want to remember these times, because they go by so fast. So, Brooklyn and Sydney, mommy is back to blogging. I can't promise that I will blog every day like I've tried to do in the past. It will be, as the Spirit moves, as they say and I promise to get last years posts in a book for you soon.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-15916745910350595412012-08-27T12:49:00.001-05:002013-02-15T10:42:00.645-06:00Happy Birthday BrooklynMy sweet Brooklyn turned 7 over the weekend. I can't believe how big she is getting. It's almost hard for me to remember her as a baby. Anyone else feel that way with their kiddos? I went up to her school on Friday and spent time with her at lunch and bought ice cream for all the kids in her class to help celebrate. I love to watch her interact with her friends.<br />
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Brooklyn, I am so proud to be your mama. You are becoming such a beautiful girl inside and out. You love to read and you still love maps. I don't think that will ever change. You love to play with your hermit crab. You take him out and let him crawl around on the floor and on your hand. I have to remind you sometimes to put him back in his cage so he doesn't run loose. You are learning to ride your bike without training wheels and you just completed your very first triathlon. Soccer is starting and I cannot wait to watch you play. Most importantly, I love your heart. I love how you love Jesus and your desire to help others warms my heart. <br />
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I love you to the moon and back sweet girl. MommyKristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-74398478900526035802012-08-16T21:43:00.001-05:002012-08-16T21:43:31.098-05:00Back to SchoolWhere did the summer go? Did anyone else feel like it flew? I'm actually thrilled that Fall is on the way. It's my favorite time of the year. <br />
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I can't believe my babies started school. Brooklyn actually started last Thursday and Sydney started today. They are getting so big. Brooklyn is so excited to be in first grade. She loves to read and loves art and I am so thrilled to watch her grow.<br />
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I wasn't sure how Sydney would handle her first day of kindergarten in a brand new big school. She surprised me when she just walked right into class. She was a little shy, but she didn't cry. Mommy on the other hand, shed a few tears. I tried not to let her see because I didn't want it to make her sad. She has such a sensitive heart.<br />
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Tonight when I put her to bed she told me she didn't want to go to school tomorrow. She's a mama's girl through and through and I think she's having a hard time being away from me. She's got a great teacher, Brooklyn's teacher from last year, so I know she's in good hands. Praying she'll feel differently in the morning.<br />
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It hasn't really hit me yet that I'm a mom of grade schoolers. What will I do with all of my free time? <br />
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For starters, I will tackle my house. It looks like a bomb went off. I don't function well in a dirty, unorganized home. It actually affects my mood. I hate that. Does that happen to anyone else, or is it just me? <br />
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I'm actually excited to be on a schedule and get some routine back in my life. I desperately need to start a new Bible study and get into a good workout routine. My other goal is to get a good meal plan scheduled so I can have healthy and yummy dinners every night. Cooking is not one of my strengths, nor something I enjoy. Hopefully I can change that. <br />
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Last but not least, I can't wait to blog more. I am so far behind it's almost overwhelming. It was all worth it though to be able to spend that time with my girls.<br />
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Has school started for you? If not, enjoy the rest of your summer. <br />
<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-3934735457351322722012-07-19T11:07:00.000-05:002012-07-19T11:11:09.275-05:003 GenerationsI promise I will get my Dominican update posted soon. The amount of pictures I took is a little overwhelming. I'm trying to sort and edit a little every day. <br />
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In the meantime, I'd thought I'd post about something very cool that I am excited about. The Tennessean ran a story today on my family. I haven't seen the newspaper yet, but Brian says we are on the front page. I thought you all would like to take a peek at it.<br />
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rachelle Darin, left, Krista Darin Lord, Marcia Darin and Stacy Darin Zepeda exercise together in Pinkerton Park. </span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Marcia, her daughters and granddaughters will do a triathlon in August. / Dipti Vaidya / The Tennessean</span></em></div>
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You can read the article <a href="http://www.tennessean.com/article/20120719/LIFE03/307190016/Three-generations-will-compete-together-triathlon?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Life"><span style="color: blue;">here</span></a><span style="color: blue;">.</span> Thanks to my hubby for being the encouragement we all needed to get our little behinders off the couch on onto the pavement. Love you baby.</div>
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<br /></div>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-65634278736636751712012-07-12T13:00:00.002-05:002012-07-12T22:55:01.160-05:00Snapshots of the DominicanWe arrived home very late last night. It was a full day of travel and we were all exhausted, but we had an amazing trip. I have over 550 photos to prove it. Here are just a few of the faces we saw along our journey. I hope you enjoy them. More to come this weekend.<br />
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<br />My hubby also wrote about the Dominican. You can read about it <a href="http://bit.ly/DRTrip"><span style="color: red;">here.</span></a>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-82115837881695416322012-07-08T21:55:00.000-05:002012-07-08T21:55:09.822-05:00On a missionIt's 10:45 and I'm exhausted, in a good, hard work, kind of way. The girls and Brian are asleep and I'm writing on my iPhone in the dark. So this post will be brief. I wanted to thank you all so much for your prayers. They mean so much to us.
I have tons of pictures from today but I'm
just too tired to download them and we have to be up early to go back to Esperanza. I promise I will get some up tomorrow night. I'm dying to show you the faces of the sweet children we got to love on tonight. Sydney is so excited to see her two new best friends in the morning. I hate to see what happens when we have to say goodbye for good tomorrow.
The kids loved all their gifts we gave them. It truly was like Christmas morning for them.
Please be in prayer tomorrow as we feed the children and show the Jesus movie to them. Pray that many of the children will come to know the Lord as their personal Savior.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-80695471730258856652012-07-05T22:06:00.000-05:002012-07-05T22:06:16.287-05:00To Serve the Least of TheseTomorrow is the day. A day we have been planning, for over a year. Brian and I have a heart for missions. We believe we are called to serve those less fortunate than ourselves. We will soon get our chance to do just that. The best part about it is that these two little girls will get to experience it all with us.<br />
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We would love your prayers.</div>
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1. For safety as we fly and safety as we drive through the Dominican Republic. I've heard our van doesn't have seat belts. Yikes!</div>
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2. Good health for all of us. The dizziness has been really bad lately and I am just praying for some good days while we are there.</div>
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3. Most importantly, please pray for the hearts of the kids we will be ministering to. We will be showing the Jesus Movie to them in Spanish. My prayer is that many kids and adults, will come to know the Lord.</div>
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Thank you for coming on this journey with us. You can follow our trip on Twitter @kristalord and @premierebrian or here on my blog. </div>
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If you want to learn more about the organization we are going with or to sponsor a child, please visit <a href="http://servantsheartministry.com/"><span style="color: red;">Servants Heart Ministries.</span></a></div>
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<br /></div>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-85679476827966985982012-07-01T19:37:00.000-05:002012-07-01T19:38:04.757-05:00Heat WaveY'all it's hot in Nashville. We broke a record on Friday with high of 109 degrees. It hasn't been that hot in Nashville ever since July 1952. So what does one do when it is that hot outside?<br />
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We go camping of course. The girls have been bugging us for months and we finally caved. We went to Costco and got a pop up tent, which sets it self up in less than 10 seconds. It's awesome. The girls can both fit in it and it was under $30. Total score. Then it folds up flat for storage.<br />
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Ok, so they camped in the living room. That still counts, right? They had a blast. Of course, a good camp out is not complete without S'mores. We made oven S'mores.<br />
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Sydney helped me make these and I have to say, they were delish. Just like the real thing and oh so easy to make. Here are the directions:<br />
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Enjoy with your kiddos and imagine you are camping under the stars and listening to the crickets.</div>
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Finally, I saw this picture on Facebook and had to include it in my post, since I am talking about how stinkin hot it is here. I saw this and it put the heat into perspective for me.</div>
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Oh Lord forgive me for complaining about the heat. It is nothing compared to what our men and women have to endure on the front lines. Please protect and guide them as they fight for our freedom. Amen.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-62366277622235372662012-06-22T11:24:00.000-05:002012-06-22T11:24:21.157-05:00Have Flip Flops, Will TravelLast weekends basement sale was a huge success. We raised almost $400. Thank you to all of our sweet friends and family who stopped by and bought lemonade, cupcakes, jewelry and artwork created all by the kids. The money raised will help buy the backpacks we need for about 100 kids. We will also use some of the money to help buy snacks for the kids when we show them the "Jesus Movie". Some of these children have probably never seen a movie and a movie that could forever change their lives, is even better. Would you please be praying for the hearts of these sweet kids that need to hear that there is a God who loves them deeply?<br />
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We have been overwhelmed by the donations coming in. To date, we have collected 132 pairs of flip flops, 107 boxes of crayons and we are now moving on to collecting childrens sunglasses. We are in need of 100 pairs of sunglasses to put in each of the backpacks. If you'd like to donate, please let me know. <br />
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We are getting excited, but there is still so much to be done. The girls have been at camp all week from 9-3 so I've tried to use that time wisely to prepare for our trip.<br />
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Is anyone else going on a mission trip this summer? If so, I'd love to hear about it.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-63932383226078710632012-06-16T18:52:00.000-05:002012-06-16T18:52:00.047-05:00Four girls on a mission<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These girls are on a mission, literally. We leave for a mission trip to the Dominican Republic next month. We were super busy today doing this.</div>
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We have collected about 100 flipflops and crayons in the last week. The girls are so excited. We will be distributing backpacks to over 100 kids through an organization called <a href="http://www.servantsheartministry.com/"><span style="color: red;">Servants Hearts Ministry.</span></a> SHM, is a child sponsorship program in the Dominican Republic. We sponsor a 3 year old little boy named Michael.</div>
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How sweet is that face? I can't wait to meet him and hug his neck.</div>
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We would covet your prayers as we embark on our first mission trip as a family. Please pray for our safety and for the girls hearts as they experience for the first time, children living in extreme poverty.</div>
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My prayer is that the Holy Spirit will give them a love for these children and a heart for the orphans and the widows. (James 1:27)</div>
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I will be blogging from the trip and can't wait to show you how God is using us to care for His children. Please pray how you can be involved in furthing His kingdom through <a href="http://www.servantsheartministry.com/"><span style="color: red;">Servants Heart Ministry.</span></a> Thank you.</div>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-36250080370796753472012-06-06T10:23:00.000-05:002012-06-06T10:23:10.005-05:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If I have any readers left, thank you for hanging in there with me. We've had alot going on and frankly, I just lost my desire to blog. Then I started feeling guilty because I hadn't been recording all these wonderful things that were happening with my girls and our family. I hope to blog more in depth about all of these events, but for now, here is a recap.<br />
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My sweet baby turned 5.<br />
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She graduated from Preschool.<br />
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Brooklyn had her artwork on display at the prestigious Frist Center in Nashville.<br />
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I turned 40.<br />
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<br />I became an aunt again to a beautiful nephew named Canaan.<br />
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So here is hoping I can blog more frequently because I never want to forgot all the wonderful things God is doing in our lives. Even in the midst of the dessert, I am reminded that God is Good!!<br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-18770233034904818902012-04-11T11:05:00.000-05:002012-04-11T11:05:51.315-05:00To Have and To Hold-11 years and countingOn Saturday, Brian and I celebrated 11 years of marriage. Brian surprised me with a night away. He arranged for my parents to watch the girls Friday night and Saturday morning. Thanks mom and dad. <br />
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I was told to pack a bag and that was all I knew, so I was delighted when we pulled up here:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1YZdv2hC8lw/T4WiOx7NXGI/AAAAAAAACJ0/HBzd5PjKPL4/s1600/outsidehermitage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1YZdv2hC8lw/T4WiOx7NXGI/AAAAAAAACJ0/HBzd5PjKPL4/s640/outsidehermitage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I have always wanted to stay at <a href="http://www.thehermitagehotel.com/"><span style="color: red;">The Hermitage Hotel</span></a>. It is over 100 years old and is the only 5 star hotel in Tennessee. It did not disappoint. Their attention to detail is incredible. <br />
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We were told that the woodworking in this ballroom was the same that was used on the Titanic. Pretty neat.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r3EhyGMvLP4/T4WoPlLr6cI/AAAAAAAACL0/SdaneRAY_oE/s1600/ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r3EhyGMvLP4/T4WoPlLr6cI/AAAAAAAACL0/SdaneRAY_oE/s640/ceiling.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I kept staring at the ceilings. They were absolutely beautiful. I could have hung out in the lobby all day.<br />
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We had dinner at the Oak Bar. It was divine. Seriously, I can't wait to go back. Brian had a double stacker hamburger that was to die for. I snuck a bite and it was so yummy. Mine was really good too.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9lj5VsjkBrw/T4R80yQKa9I/AAAAAAAACJc/IAIEAKI7ruA/s1600/dinner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9lj5VsjkBrw/T4R80yQKa9I/AAAAAAAACJc/IAIEAKI7ruA/s640/dinner.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
After dinner we went back upstairs to get ready to see "Titanic, The Musical" across the street at TPAC. When I walked into the room, there were rose petals on the floor, candles lit and chocolates and champagne. There was even music playing on the tv. This is one classy hotel. Everything is top notch. Guys take note. This is a great place to take your wife. You can thank me later. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fmQRPGa2_8/T4WmKupvtnI/AAAAAAAACLw/W_1DxRcJCg8/s1600/titanic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fmQRPGa2_8/T4WmKupvtnI/AAAAAAAACLw/W_1DxRcJCg8/s640/titanic.jpg" width="486" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our hotel room:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zKCPKMpXwUM/T4WlJSeCATI/AAAAAAAACKM/VHaqDV8i9MY/s1600/bed1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zKCPKMpXwUM/T4WlJSeCATI/AAAAAAAACKM/VHaqDV8i9MY/s640/bed1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I may or may not of taken an hour long bath while watching Guiliana Rancic's True Hollywood Story.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N5Gc7io_voE/T4WlBie7OvI/AAAAAAAACKk/nw837wOAXcc/s1600/bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N5Gc7io_voE/T4WlBie7OvI/AAAAAAAACKk/nw837wOAXcc/s640/bathroom.jpg" width="486" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C329WlPFDdE/T4Wlx9dUkSI/AAAAAAAACLY/6gmizEp6Ofs/s1600/shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C329WlPFDdE/T4Wlx9dUkSI/AAAAAAAACLY/6gmizEp6Ofs/s640/shower.jpg" width="484" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Breakfast at Capitol Grille was included in our package Brian bought. It too, did not disappoint. I had a Belgian waffle and Brian had the Tennessee "Jack" Egg Sandwich. Our waiter told us that the Food Network named it best breakfast sandwich in Tennessee.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6S0AWEfJgRc/T4WqJh9qynI/AAAAAAAACMc/A6YNSdvlc5A/s1600/bfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6S0AWEfJgRc/T4WqJh9qynI/AAAAAAAACMc/A6YNSdvlc5A/s640/bfast.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you are ever in Nashville, you must stop by for the dining. If you can stay the night, even better.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you my love for such a fun getaway. I love you and am blessed to be your wife.</div>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-28180591771324416282012-04-01T16:22:00.000-05:002012-04-01T16:22:41.241-05:0084 sticks of butterI've officially lost 84 sticks of butter. That's a whole heck of alot. If you are having trouble calculating how many pounds, I'll help ya out. I've lost 21 pounds. Yippee. It's crazy how the body works. One week I had 0 weight loss and the next week I was down 4 lbs. I love being back in the 160's, but not enough to stay there for long. I've got a big birthday coming up in a few weeks and I'd love to hit 159. That's my new goal. We will see. <br />
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We are enjoying our spring break and I've got some tips for eating healthy on the road. It can be done with a little planning. I'll be blogging about that a little later but I will leave you with this tip for a healthy breakfast. McDonald's, yes you heard me right, has a wonderful oatmeal with raisins and apples. My girls love their pancakes but since I'm trying not to eat gluten right now it is so difficult to find something healthy to eat without gluten. Thankfully I've found this oatmeal and since you can always find a McD's, it's a great option. <br />
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I will say this, it is the only food item on their menu you will find me endorsing. My kids are not allowed to eat any meat products or French fries from McD's and they'll be the first to tell you that. I've trained them well. :)<br />
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What fun things do you have planned over Spring Break?Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-37356987141221726592012-03-29T12:58:00.000-05:002012-03-29T12:58:33.647-05:00Beyond Words DesignsI mentioned my new friend Stephanie a few weeks ago, after meeting her at Blissdom. We instantly connected. We both know the heart wrenching loss of a baby. When she was 24 weeks pregnant with her fourth child, she was told her unborn daughter wouldn't likely make it to the third trimester, let alone go full term. You can read Amelia's story <a href="http://beyondwordsdesigns.com/?page_id=9">here.</a> <br />
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<a href="http://www.beyondwordsdesigns.com/">Stephanie</a> is an amazing artist and she has turned her pain and grief into a ministry to bless others. When I met her at Blissdom, Stephanie gave me this necklace. I love it. In fact, Sydney has taken a liking to it as well and wants to wear it all the time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KCn0SvA8buU/T3SdWZTOuOI/AAAAAAAACJE/wZnj--fKEvA/s1600/JewelryStary1_original.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KCn0SvA8buU/T3SdWZTOuOI/AAAAAAAACJE/wZnj--fKEvA/s640/JewelryStary1_original.jpg" width="522" /></a></div><br />
She has a <a href="http://beyondwordsdesigns.storenvy.com/">brand new shop</a> on her blog. It's filled with beautiful necklaces and paintings. This is another one of my favorites. It's entitled "Gone Too Soon".<br />
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"Reaching Out" would be beautiful hung in a delivery room, don't you think? This painting celebrates the beauty of pregnancy and bringing forth life.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWaWHhpqBkE/T3SezH1d9II/AAAAAAAACJU/X_gm9Mn7OIU/s1600/Awaiting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWaWHhpqBkE/T3SezH1d9II/AAAAAAAACJU/X_gm9Mn7OIU/s640/Awaiting.jpg" width="408" /></a></div><br />
She also donates her Art Cards to hospitals for their memory boxes they give to grieving families after they have lost a baby. If you know of a hospital that would love to include some of her artwork, please contact <a href="mailto:steph@beyondwordsdesigns.com">steph@beyondwordsdesigns.com</a> I know that I was so glad that I received a box for both of my babies when I left the hospital. It was something tangible I could hold on to. <br />
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If you know someone who is pregnant, Stephanie's art would make an amazing shower gift. She is offering free shipping and a special surprise gift on all of her necklaces if you order before April 30th. It would make a wonderful Mother's Day gift. There are so many great prints it will be hard to choose. Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-62983298965448024862012-03-25T21:39:00.000-05:002012-03-25T21:39:18.402-05:00We have a winner!I apologize that this is a day late. I was super busy yesterday with this precious little girl. She turned five and we had 13 little girls over at the house to celebrate her birthday, Fancy Nancy style.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q4DRPlVwlSI/T2--b6x4tCI/AAAAAAAACJA/t7BfV0ToGcI/s1600/desktop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q4DRPlVwlSI/T2--b6x4tCI/AAAAAAAACJA/t7BfV0ToGcI/s640/desktop.jpg" width="394" /></a></div><br />
I had my helpers pick a winner. Watch the video to see who won.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/iV21N3cqkUE" width="560"></iframe><br />
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If you are the winner, please email me your address at <a href="mailto:hopeinthewaiting@gmail.com">hopeinthewaiting@gmail.com</a> Congrats!! Thank you again to the wonderful people at <a href="http://www.simplehuman.com/"><span style="color: purple;">Simple Human.</span></a> Check out their amazing products online or at your local <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/">Bed, Bath and Beyond.</a><br />
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<em>P.S. I apologize for chomping gum on the video. I didn't realize it until I watched it back and I couldn't do it over. Oops. Lesson learned.</em>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-65439019968367876112012-03-23T06:00:00.007-05:002012-03-23T06:00:15.365-05:00Spring Cleaning: Laundry RoomThe last room we are going to organize in this series is the laundry room. I organized and redecorated my laundry room at the end of last year, so I am not going to have any before pictures unfortunately. <br />
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There are so many great organizational items for the laundry room these days. I'm going to show you a few of my favorites.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FbH5TJ3n1KM/T2t7N2HJKkI/AAAAAAAACH8/0v0lQvj-hlc/s1600/laundryroom1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FbH5TJ3n1KM/T2t7N2HJKkI/AAAAAAAACH8/0v0lQvj-hlc/s640/laundryroom1.jpg" width="430" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6rEykFW4uIo/T2t7hdjZXPI/AAAAAAAACIE/BA4hMmHFeb8/s1600/laundryroom2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6rEykFW4uIo/T2t7hdjZXPI/AAAAAAAACIE/BA4hMmHFeb8/s640/laundryroom2.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><br />
The white accordion clothes hanger you can get at Bed, Bath and Beyond or the Container Store. I love that it folds flat against the wall when I'm not using it. I hand alot of Brian's cycling clothes I don't want to dry in the dryer. The coat hook I use for items that need to be repaired or ironed. <strong>Tip 1:</strong> Use your wall space.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k40AFnVLUwo/T2t7trIsD9I/AAAAAAAACIM/Pd21AbSSiP8/s1600/laundryroom3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k40AFnVLUwo/T2t7trIsD9I/AAAAAAAACIM/Pd21AbSSiP8/s640/laundryroom3.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The ironing board and iron wall organizer I have had for years. It's great, except I had to buy a new iron and my new iron is too big for the holder. :( I also have a space under the sink where I can store things if need be. I added the skirt (a table cloth from Target) to add some color and hide anything I wanted to put underneath it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rM88Kra4BNM/T2t75WDGE2I/AAAAAAAACIU/HUOu566g4Xw/s1600/laundryroom4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rM88Kra4BNM/T2t75WDGE2I/AAAAAAAACIU/HUOu566g4Xw/s640/laundryroom4.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>This cart fits perfectly in between my washer and dryer. I love it. You can find it at Bed, Bath and Beyond as well. It's on wheels so it's easy to move. Once again you can see my love for glass containers. I have all of my soap in see through containers so I know when I am running low. <strong>Tip 2:</strong> Put all of your detergent and other cleaning supplies in glass or plastic containers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MOo3Sw0PNYE/T2t8K0hUQsI/AAAAAAAACIc/SstrwnO6QHg/s1600/laundryroom9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MOo3Sw0PNYE/T2t8K0hUQsI/AAAAAAAACIc/SstrwnO6QHg/s640/laundryroom9.jpg" width="428" /></a>~</div>One last tip and it's an important one. Make sure you clean out your lint trap every time you <br />
dry a load of clothes. Once a year I pull the dryer out and clean the hose out at the back of the dryer. If you <span style="background-color: yellow;">never </span>clean it out, you are at risk of a fire starting. I've been thinking about getting a Lint Lizard to help me with this task. Do any of you own one of these? If you do, please let me know how you like it. It's also available at <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/">Bed, Bath and Beyond.</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TKZcgLTu46Y/T2uBL5l7nnI/AAAAAAAACIk/XHMk4PvyK5k/s1600/Lint+Lizard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TKZcgLTu46Y/T2uBL5l7nnI/AAAAAAAACIk/XHMk4PvyK5k/s320/Lint+Lizard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I believe a laundry room can be pretty and functional. Let's face it, you spend alot of time washing clothes, you might as well enjoy it.<br />
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You have one more day to enter to win the Simple Human automatic soap dispenser.<br />
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Don't forget to check out <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://broccolicupcake.com/blog/?p=2410">Broccoli Cupcake's</a> </span><span style="color: black;">blog</span> for her homemade detergents and other green solutions for the laundry room.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6479773871921382128.post-18255084935605832502012-03-22T06:00:00.002-05:002013-02-15T10:44:28.982-06:00Spring Cleaning:Organizing your Bathroom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1kH0azKVLEE/T2p569tMxVI/AAAAAAAACHk/883qhCf1zvw/s1600/label.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1kH0azKVLEE/T2p569tMxVI/AAAAAAAACHk/883qhCf1zvw/s200/label.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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We are half way through our series and today we are going to take on the master bathroom, but this will work in any and all of your bathrooms. Here are the supplies you will need.<br />
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In our bathroom there are two narrow closets. They are kind of a waste of space, but they are there so junk starts to pile up. This is my closet in the bathroom.<br />
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And this is Brian's closet.<br />
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Then I tackled the drawers and the space under the sink.<br />
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I then brought everything out into our bedroom and laid it on the floor.<br />
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<strong>Step 1:</strong> Look through your medications, make up, etc for expiration dates. I had quite a bit of stuff that had expired and needed to be thrown out. Remember don't flush meds down the toilet. They get into our waterways and pollute the water. You can take them into most pharmacies and they will dispose of them for you.<br />
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<strong>Step 2:</strong> Put like items in their own bins. I already had bins, but if you are starting from scratch you will need to make a list of the bins, along with their sizes, on the pad of paper I showed you at the top.<br />
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<strong>Step 3:</strong> Label the bins. You can use a label maker if you have one or purchase stick on labels if you prefer.<br />
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<strong>Step 4:</strong> Now is a great time to go through your towels and see which ones need to be retired. If they are still in good shape, you can donate them to a local homeless shelter.<br />
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<strong><em>After Photos:</em></strong><br />
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I have a bin for cold meds, first aid, travel size items and dental supplies. The travel size container is a new one for me, but I think it's going to come in handy. It will save me a ton of time not having to run to the store the night before a trip for something I need.<br />
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I like to stock up on shampoo and conditioner when it's on sale.<br />
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I ended up with 2 grocery bags of trash and recycling and a small box of items to donate. I bought Qtips and toothpaste in bulk at Costco so I decided to donate some of them to our local homeless shelter. I mean who really needs 600 Qtips anyway.<br />
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I have no idea why a Nintendo DS was in our bathroom closet. Ha. I guess you never know what may turn up. This obviously needed to go elsewhere in the house.<br />
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<strong><em>GIVE AWAY ALERT:</em></strong> I'm excited to announce that the great folks from <a href="http://www.simplehuman.com/">Simple Human</a> have agreed to give away one of their sensor pumps. You may have seen my trashcan in yesterday's post of my pantry. I love Simple Human products. <br />
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I was given this sensor pump at Blissdom this year and I absolutely love it. We use it in our main bathroom and it rocks. I had a glass soap dispenser that I loved, but it always got clogged. It was awful. Soap would be all over the sink and the girls would have trouble getting the soap out. I brought this pump home and the girls love washing their hands now.<br />
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You have 3 chances to win.<br />
1. Go like simplehuman on Facebook.<br />
2. Follow @simplehuman on Twitter<br />
3. Leave a comment on my blog as to where you would use the sensor pump if you won.<br />
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I will pick a winner at random on Saturday. Good luck!<br />
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Don't forget to check out <a href="http://broccolicupcake.com/blog/?p=2374"><span style="color: lime;">Calie's</span></a> blog to see her green cleaning products and how she used them to get her bathroom sparkling clean. I know I can't wait to try some of her recipes.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15876172426318243962noreply@blogger.com12