Our family news
Come Alive
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.
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.
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.
He Makes All Things New
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. That was never my intent. With blogging, however, I am free to bare my soul in more just than a few words.
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. The heartache He is replacing with Hope, tears with Joy and mourning with Dancing.
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.
Delight in Him,
Krista
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. The heartache He is replacing with Hope, tears with Joy and mourning with Dancing.
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.
Delight in Him,
Krista
Back to School
Where 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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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?
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.
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.
Has school started for you? If not, enjoy the rest of your summer.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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?
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.
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.
Has school started for you? If not, enjoy the rest of your summer.
3 Generations
I 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.
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.
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.
Rachelle Darin, left, Krista Darin Lord, Marcia Darin and Stacy Darin Zepeda exercise together in Pinkerton Park.
Marcia, her daughters and granddaughters will do a triathlon in August. / Dipti Vaidya / The Tennessean
You can read the article here. 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.
To Serve the Least of These
Tomorrow 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.
We would love your prayers.
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!
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.
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.
Thank you for coming on this journey with us. You can follow our trip on Twitter @kristalord and @premierebrian or here on my blog.
If you want to learn more about the organization we are going with or to sponsor a child, please visit Servants Heart Ministries.
Four girls on a mission
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.
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 Servants Hearts Ministry. SHM, is a child sponsorship program in the Dominican Republic. We sponsor a 3 year old little boy named Michael.
How sweet is that face? I can't wait to meet him and hug his neck.
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.
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)
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 Servants Heart Ministry. Thank you.
Snipits
I don't remember the last time I blogged. If I have any readers left it will be a miracle really. To be honest, I just haven't felt like it. I do want to write a few snipits if I may.
Still dizzy, worse actually. Exercises not helping. Have a call into my doctor in Tampa to see how to proceed next.
Getting ready to attend Blissdom next week here in Nashville. At times, I wanted to sell my ticket because, let's face it, blogging hasn't been a huge priority. Brian encouraged me to still go. It will be a nice getaway and I hope it will inspire me to blog more.
Held my first juicing class a few weeks ago at my house and it went really well. We all had a great time. Next class scheduled for March 7th.
Had an impromptu trip to Birmingham over the weekend. We surprised my family who was down there running the Mercedes Marathon as a team relay. It was alot of fun. So proud of my sisters, Stacy and Rachelle, my nephew Mario, my dad and my bro in law, Bill. Brian ran the 1/2 marathon. Great job guys.
Still haven't posted our DisneyWorld pics. Maybe one day...
Brooklyn lost her third tooth at the end of Jan. She was excited because that means she lost a tooth a month starting in November.
Brian surprised me with a date afternoon Friday (he's a keeper). He took a half day off and we went to a late lunch and then saw "The Vow". I loved it. So inspiring, and I love that it's based on a true story.
Haven't lost anymore weight. Still holding at 13 lbs lost. Still eating really well so I think it's time to switch up the exercise routine.
Still loving yoga.
Waiting to see if the snow will really fall tonight in the 615. Hoping not, so the girls can have their Valentine's Day parties at school tomorrow.
Read a book called "7: An experimental Mutiny against Excess" by Jen Hatmaker that rocked my world. I highly recommend it. Lots to let soak in. Action is required.
My sweet Jonathan would have turned 1. Tears....
Sydney continues to sing constantly and I can't get enough of it. She was born to perform :)
Brooklyn was selected to have a piece of her art from school hang in The Frist Center in downtown Nashville. She is over the moon excited and we are so proud of her. We can't wait to preview it next month.
Thank you Lord for Grace that is abounding.
If you are still reading, thank you. Thank you for the comments. I promise to get back to each one of you.
Still dizzy, worse actually. Exercises not helping. Have a call into my doctor in Tampa to see how to proceed next.
Getting ready to attend Blissdom next week here in Nashville. At times, I wanted to sell my ticket because, let's face it, blogging hasn't been a huge priority. Brian encouraged me to still go. It will be a nice getaway and I hope it will inspire me to blog more.
Held my first juicing class a few weeks ago at my house and it went really well. We all had a great time. Next class scheduled for March 7th.
Had an impromptu trip to Birmingham over the weekend. We surprised my family who was down there running the Mercedes Marathon as a team relay. It was alot of fun. So proud of my sisters, Stacy and Rachelle, my nephew Mario, my dad and my bro in law, Bill. Brian ran the 1/2 marathon. Great job guys.
Still haven't posted our DisneyWorld pics. Maybe one day...
Brooklyn lost her third tooth at the end of Jan. She was excited because that means she lost a tooth a month starting in November.
Brian surprised me with a date afternoon Friday (he's a keeper). He took a half day off and we went to a late lunch and then saw "The Vow". I loved it. So inspiring, and I love that it's based on a true story.
Haven't lost anymore weight. Still holding at 13 lbs lost. Still eating really well so I think it's time to switch up the exercise routine.
Still loving yoga.
Waiting to see if the snow will really fall tonight in the 615. Hoping not, so the girls can have their Valentine's Day parties at school tomorrow.
Read a book called "7: An experimental Mutiny against Excess" by Jen Hatmaker that rocked my world. I highly recommend it. Lots to let soak in. Action is required.
My sweet Jonathan would have turned 1. Tears....
Sydney continues to sing constantly and I can't get enough of it. She was born to perform :)
Brooklyn was selected to have a piece of her art from school hang in The Frist Center in downtown Nashville. She is over the moon excited and we are so proud of her. We can't wait to preview it next month.
Thank you Lord for Grace that is abounding.
If you are still reading, thank you. Thank you for the comments. I promise to get back to each one of you.
Weekend Fun
Any guesses on where we went this past weekend? Here's a hint:
Yep, we surprised the girls with a trip to Disney World. This was somewhat of a last minute trip for us. Usually when we go it's planned out way in advance, about a year ahead of time. I decided to see a specialist in Tampa regarding the constant dizziness I experience. Since Tampa is about an hour away from Orlando, we decided to make a trip out of it and take the girls to Magic Kingdom. It was tough keeping it a secret for over a month. Here's how we told them.
I think I was the most excited not to have to keep a secret any longer. I love the look of shock on their faces. Bless their hearts, it was early and they had just woken up. We had a fantastic time with the girls. Many memories were made and I am feeling so incredibly blessed. Can't wait to share more pictures with you, once I get them downloaded, and tell you about the doctors visit.
Enjoy your weekend!
I think I was the most excited not to have to keep a secret any longer. I love the look of shock on their faces. Bless their hearts, it was early and they had just woken up. We had a fantastic time with the girls. Many memories were made and I am feeling so incredibly blessed. Can't wait to share more pictures with you, once I get them downloaded, and tell you about the doctors visit.
Enjoy your weekend!
There's no crying in football
Today's blog brought to you by my hubby. Thanks honey.
Daddy is a little too obsessed with fantasy football. My daughters, then 3 and 5, sensed this. Instead of trying to cut back on my fantasy football, I decided to welcome them to my world and try to get them addicted, too. Rather than doing the more complex fantasy football where you pick individual players by position, I started a Yahoo 'pick'em' league. For this league, once a week you go online and pick the team you think will win. You can't get any simpler than that. Based on her love of ballet, Sydney's team was named "I Rock The Tutu". Brooklyn's became "Zhu Zhu Princess" after her toy collection. I recruited my mother-in-law, who is so football obsessed I can't watch games with her, a brother-in-law, and my only two friends who are more addicted to fantasy football than me, to round out our league.
Last year, I'd name off the cities and names for each team, and the girls would pick. This year, I'd start to say the city and they'd cut me off before I'd get to the team. I'd say "Green Bay..." and they'd yell "Packers!". Both girls had learned the names of every NFL to go with the city, although there are occasional pronunciation issues with the Raibers and the Rabens.
The girls have a funny way of picking teams.
Daddy is a little too obsessed with fantasy football. My daughters, then 3 and 5, sensed this. Instead of trying to cut back on my fantasy football, I decided to welcome them to my world and try to get them addicted, too. Rather than doing the more complex fantasy football where you pick individual players by position, I started a Yahoo 'pick'em' league. For this league, once a week you go online and pick the team you think will win. You can't get any simpler than that. Based on her love of ballet, Sydney's team was named "I Rock The Tutu". Brooklyn's became "Zhu Zhu Princess" after her toy collection. I recruited my mother-in-law, who is so football obsessed I can't watch games with her, a brother-in-law, and my only two friends who are more addicted to fantasy football than me, to round out our league.
Last year, I'd name off the cities and names for each team, and the girls would pick. This year, I'd start to say the city and they'd cut me off before I'd get to the team. I'd say "Green Bay..." and they'd yell "Packers!". Both girls had learned the names of every NFL to go with the city, although there are occasional pronunciation issues with the Raibers and the Rabens.
The girls have a funny way of picking teams.
A Time to Rest
I had to take another glance at the date of my last post. Has it really been 17 days? This is the longest break I have ever taken. Even when we lost Jonathan, I still blogged. I guess it's the busyness of the season and I haven't been feeling well. I still don't know what is wrong, but I've been having really bad lower back pain and pelvic pain. I've had ultrasounds on everything imaginable and all looks fine. I went to a new chiropractor who took an x-ray and he said my L4 and L5 are degenerating. Fabulous. Has anyone else ever experienced this? I still don't know if that's the cause, but for now, we'll go with that diagnosis.
The dizziness is still really bad, so we've decided to fly to Tampa next month to see a specialist. I'm hopeful that they will be able to help me. I'm also excited because we decided to take the girls and make a Disney World trip out of it. They have no idea. We are going to tell them the morning we leave. I can't wait. I will be sure to get it all on video.
I'm just about ready for Christmas. I just got done wrapping all the presents while the girls and Brian are fast asleep. On the girls wish list this year was a Fijit and a Perfect Petzzz. I can't wait to see their little faces light up. We have plans to go to church with my family tomorrow and then enjoy the festivities at my sister Stacy's house.
If you are still reading my blog, thank you. Thanks for hanging with me this long. I am really going to try harder to keep it updated.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas! May you remember the true meaning of the holiday. A babe who came to save the world. He is the reason for the season!
The dizziness is still really bad, so we've decided to fly to Tampa next month to see a specialist. I'm hopeful that they will be able to help me. I'm also excited because we decided to take the girls and make a Disney World trip out of it. They have no idea. We are going to tell them the morning we leave. I can't wait. I will be sure to get it all on video.
I'm just about ready for Christmas. I just got done wrapping all the presents while the girls and Brian are fast asleep. On the girls wish list this year was a Fijit and a Perfect Petzzz. I can't wait to see their little faces light up. We have plans to go to church with my family tomorrow and then enjoy the festivities at my sister Stacy's house.
If you are still reading my blog, thank you. Thanks for hanging with me this long. I am really going to try harder to keep it updated.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas! May you remember the true meaning of the holiday. A babe who came to save the world. He is the reason for the season!
Will you choose Joy?
I wrote this on the chalkboard I have hanging in our kitchen. I've been learning alot about joy these last few weeks. Maybe it's because we are entering one of the most joyous times of the year.
It got me thinking, what is joy? Webster defines joy as "the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires : delight" This is what the world say is joy. Notice it says success, good fortune, getting your desires. Those are all things that are temporary. One day you can have all of those things and the next day, it can be all stripped away.
What does the Bible say about joy? In James 1:1-8 it says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
I believe that true joy comes from the Lord. The world cannot bring me joy. Sure, there are things in this world that can make me happy, but happiness is fleeting. It's dependent on my circumstances. Only the Lord living inside me, can bring me joy. Being joyful is a choice. I can choose to be joyful or I can choose to be sorrowful. Which will I choose? I have to say that most days I miss the mark. I don't choose joy. I wallow in my self pity and focus on what I don't have instead of the blessings that I do have. I focus on my physical ailments instead of praying for the Lord's healing hand upon my sick body. This sign reminds me daily that it's up to me.
Maybe you are in the same boat I am in tonight, having a hard time finding the joy through your trials. Afterall, what is so joyful about the loss of a child, a spouse, your health, or your home? The holidays can be a tough time when you are in the middle of the desert. You are desperate for rest and water, but there is none to be found. Call on the name of Jesus. Look to the only one that can quench your thirst and bring rest to your weary bones. Drag yourself to the feet of Jesus, where He is waiting with open arms to love you and refresh you. My joy and my hope is found in Christ alone. It can never be taken away.
So, what is joy to me? Hearing my girls say with a smile, "I love you mommy". That is Joy. To hold the hand of my husband and know he loves me unconditionally. That is Joy. To know one day I will live forever with my Savior. That is Joy. The hope that I will hold my sweet babies again. That is Joy.
I can choose to have joy now, even in the midst of my pain and tears. The choice is mine to make.
A Thankful Heart
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I know we did. I host Thanksgiving every year because we have a table big enough to seat my whole family. We had a total of 12 adults, 1 teenager and 7 kids under 7. We had a full house to say the least, but it was so much fun. I was so stressed making sure everything was on the table, I didn't take any pictures of the delicious spread. Shame on me.
We did our annual Turkey Trot 5K at 8 am that morning. I can't believe this was our 7th year. We started back in 2004 in memory of our precious Zoe. The weather was nice and sunny, so it made for a comfortable walk/run.
The kiddos participated this year in a fun run after the 5K. Here they are all lined up waiting to run.
And here's the whole Darin clan after the race. That's my 15 year old nephew Mario in the blue morph suite. He ran the whole race in that thing. Crazy boy.
After we run off the calories, we put them right back on when we head here.
My mouth is watering just looking at them. Donuts are my nemesis.
After we stuff ourselves silly, we all head home and take naps and prepare for dinner. Then everyone comes back to our house for dinner. After we enjoy our delicious meal, the adults go through the newspaper ads in preparation for Black Friday. I love black Friday, but this year I just couldn't do it. I was exhausted. I was in bed by 10:45.
Did you all do any shopping? I actually got some great deals at 9am the next morning so I was happy. We also picked up our tree this weekend. I think this is the earliest we've ever gotten it. If you are looking for a great deal and live near a Costco, their trees can't be beat. We got a 7-8 foot Fraser Fir for $29.99. I wish TN could grow Fraser Firs because they are my favorite. Unfortunately, they have to be trucked in from NC. The girls have worked hard all weekend putting up countless Christmas decorations and we still have a ways to go. I've had to tell them that it all doesn't have to be completed this weekend.
We're on our way out the door to celebrate my brother in law's 40th birthday today. Happy Birthday Bill! We love you.
We did our annual Turkey Trot 5K at 8 am that morning. I can't believe this was our 7th year. We started back in 2004 in memory of our precious Zoe. The weather was nice and sunny, so it made for a comfortable walk/run.
The kiddos participated this year in a fun run after the 5K. Here they are all lined up waiting to run.
And here's the whole Darin clan after the race. That's my 15 year old nephew Mario in the blue morph suite. He ran the whole race in that thing. Crazy boy.
After we run off the calories, we put them right back on when we head here.
After we stuff ourselves silly, we all head home and take naps and prepare for dinner. Then everyone comes back to our house for dinner. After we enjoy our delicious meal, the adults go through the newspaper ads in preparation for Black Friday. I love black Friday, but this year I just couldn't do it. I was exhausted. I was in bed by 10:45.
Did you all do any shopping? I actually got some great deals at 9am the next morning so I was happy. We also picked up our tree this weekend. I think this is the earliest we've ever gotten it. If you are looking for a great deal and live near a Costco, their trees can't be beat. We got a 7-8 foot Fraser Fir for $29.99. I wish TN could grow Fraser Firs because they are my favorite. Unfortunately, they have to be trucked in from NC. The girls have worked hard all weekend putting up countless Christmas decorations and we still have a ways to go. I've had to tell them that it all doesn't have to be completed this weekend.
We're on our way out the door to celebrate my brother in law's 40th birthday today. Happy Birthday Bill! We love you.
Snapshots
We spent a wonderful Fall Break down in Orange Beach, AL. It was marvelous. Grandma Sara, Brian's mom, flew in to vacation with us and it was so much fun. We ate too much fried fish, stayed at the beach til dusk and just enjoyed being together as a family.
I was thrilled to have a new zoom lens to use, thanks Jamie for letting me borrow yours, and it made all the difference in the pictures I captured. I think this lens is going on my Christmas list. (In case you are wondering, I shoot with a Nikon D40 and used a zoom 55-200 lens. I edit my pictures in Picnik.)
Enjoy!
I was thrilled to have a new zoom lens to use, thanks Jamie for letting me borrow yours, and it made all the difference in the pictures I captured. I think this lens is going on my Christmas list. (In case you are wondering, I shoot with a Nikon D40 and used a zoom 55-200 lens. I edit my pictures in Picnik.)
Enjoy!
Random Thoughts by Krista Lord
Do you ever have those days when your mind goes a million miles an hour and it just won't stop? Well I've been having a whole month of it. I guess that's why I haven't been posting as much as I used to. Forgive me, but this post will probably be a little ADD.
I am so thankful fall is here. Can I get an amen? Seriously, it's my fav time of the year. I love everything about it. What I don't like is how busy our lives seem to get. The girls are both in school and loving their teachers and doing really well. I am one of the room moms in Brooklyn's class and I'm busy, with the other moms, planning the fall party and teacher appreciation.
Brooklyn started up soccer again and Sydney's new ballet class began again as well. As luck would have it, both events are on Sat morning, which means, conflicting schedules. Then there is choir at church on Sunday nights. I love that the girls have fun activities to do and they love doing them, but sometimes I miss just having down time. Anyone else with me on this?
I guess what I am saying is that I never want to get too busy that we stop having family meals together. Did you know that children who eat meals together at least 5 times a week are more likely to have higher grades in school? Here's another important statistic. This one is especially important to me because I am a mom of 2 girls. Studies show that teenage girls who ate five or more meals per week, with their families, were less likely to resort to extreme dieting measures such as self-induced vomiting, diet pills or laxatives. This was true regardless of socioeconomic status, body mass index or family connectedness. Wow. Not something I want my girls to deal with.
Speaking of mealtime, my girls surprised me with breakfast in bed yesterday. Brian said it was all their idea. It made my morning. Brian captured a quick video of the girls explaining the meal. Syd always seems to make an infomercial out of it. She is such a ham in front of the camera. Brooklyn was too busy eating. My kind of girl. :)
In health news, I found out my thyroid is not functioning and I'm anemic. What a wonderful combination. No wonder I was so dog tired all the time. I have no idea how I ran during the summer. So, I'm on iron as well as Thyroid Armour (wanted to go the non synthetic route and not take Synthroid) to help boost my thyroid. I go back next week for bloodwork to see if all the supplements I am taking are working. I have alot more energy, but I'm still incredibly dizzy.
I ran across a print out in my room of a Jesus Calling Devo from January 8th. I felt like someone needed to hear this tonight.
"HOPE in Me, and you will be protected from depression and self-pity. HOPE is like a golden cord connecting you to heaven. The more you cling to this cord, the more I bear the weight of your burdens; thus, you are lightened. Heaviness is not of My kingdom. Cling to HOPE, and My rays of Light will reach you through the darkness."
Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
Romans 12:12 "Be joyful in HOPE, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer".
Romans 15:13 " May the God of HOPE fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit."
I am so thankful fall is here. Can I get an amen? Seriously, it's my fav time of the year. I love everything about it. What I don't like is how busy our lives seem to get. The girls are both in school and loving their teachers and doing really well. I am one of the room moms in Brooklyn's class and I'm busy, with the other moms, planning the fall party and teacher appreciation.
Brooklyn started up soccer again and Sydney's new ballet class began again as well. As luck would have it, both events are on Sat morning, which means, conflicting schedules. Then there is choir at church on Sunday nights. I love that the girls have fun activities to do and they love doing them, but sometimes I miss just having down time. Anyone else with me on this?
I guess what I am saying is that I never want to get too busy that we stop having family meals together. Did you know that children who eat meals together at least 5 times a week are more likely to have higher grades in school? Here's another important statistic. This one is especially important to me because I am a mom of 2 girls. Studies show that teenage girls who ate five or more meals per week, with their families, were less likely to resort to extreme dieting measures such as self-induced vomiting, diet pills or laxatives. This was true regardless of socioeconomic status, body mass index or family connectedness. Wow. Not something I want my girls to deal with.
Speaking of mealtime, my girls surprised me with breakfast in bed yesterday. Brian said it was all their idea. It made my morning. Brian captured a quick video of the girls explaining the meal. Syd always seems to make an infomercial out of it. She is such a ham in front of the camera. Brooklyn was too busy eating. My kind of girl. :)
In health news, I found out my thyroid is not functioning and I'm anemic. What a wonderful combination. No wonder I was so dog tired all the time. I have no idea how I ran during the summer. So, I'm on iron as well as Thyroid Armour (wanted to go the non synthetic route and not take Synthroid) to help boost my thyroid. I go back next week for bloodwork to see if all the supplements I am taking are working. I have alot more energy, but I'm still incredibly dizzy.
I ran across a print out in my room of a Jesus Calling Devo from January 8th. I felt like someone needed to hear this tonight.
"HOPE in Me, and you will be protected from depression and self-pity. HOPE is like a golden cord connecting you to heaven. The more you cling to this cord, the more I bear the weight of your burdens; thus, you are lightened. Heaviness is not of My kingdom. Cling to HOPE, and My rays of Light will reach you through the darkness."
Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."
Romans 12:12 "Be joyful in HOPE, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer".
Romans 15:13 " May the God of HOPE fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with HOPE by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Triple the fun
We were blessed to have Brian's sister and her husband come down with their kids from Indiana. They have twins who are 8 and triplets who are 1. The kids all play along really well together and we have so much fun. I wish we didn't live so far away from them. How cute are the triplets? Sydney follows them everywhere they go. She would take one by the hand and walk them around. She will be a great big sister some day, I just know it.
It's a big day for us tomorrow. Brooklyn has her first day of kindergarten. She is so excited. She actually asked me if she could take a bath tonight. That never happens. I'm kinda liking this school thing. Hopefully I will be able to hold it together and not make a fool out of myself when I drop her off.
How did you handle your child's first day of school? Was it easier or harder than you thought?
It's a big day for us tomorrow. Brooklyn has her first day of kindergarten. She is so excited. She actually asked me if she could take a bath tonight. That never happens. I'm kinda liking this school thing. Hopefully I will be able to hold it together and not make a fool out of myself when I drop her off.
How did you handle your child's first day of school? Was it easier or harder than you thought?
Weekend Wrap Up & Tuesday's Tip
We had a fun filled, jam packed weekend and I'm just now recovering from it. My friends and I had a garage sale starting bright and early on Sat. I left there around 8:00 to go see the girls do a mini triathlon. They bike, run and run through sprinklers for the swim part. It is the cutest thing ever. They love it. They get a shirt and a medal just like daddy. Speaking of daddy, he rocked his triathlon in Knoxville on Sunday. He beat his PR by 28 minutes. We are so proud of him.
Brooklyn had her last soccer game of the spring season. She scored 4 goals. She was on fire. She loves the game and she really hustles. I just love to watch her play. Reminds me of myself when I was her age. I just couldn't get enough and was constantly kicking a soccer ball whenever I got the chance.
Now that soccer is over, it's time for swimming. We only like our girls to do one event at a time. That keeps me from running around like a mad woman and allows us to have family meal time at night. Sydney is still loving ballet and dressing up like a princess. The child is obsessed with all things sparkly and beautiful. I asked her if she wanted to play soccer in the fall, but she was not having it. I think it's because she would have to wear shorts. :) We'll ask again in the spring to see if she wants to play.
Daddy left on a business trip today so I am playing single mom til Friday. Ugh! I will clue you in on Thursday as to what big time NFL star he gets to hang with. He will be his right hand man for 3 hours tomorrow. Brian is beyond thrilled. Any guesses as to whom? I'll give you a hint. He's a quarterback.
I'll leave you with a quick Tuesday's Tip. I bought this stamp about a month ago.
It's called Guard Your ID Stamp and can be found at Bed, Bath and Beyond for $9.99 (I used a coupon and got it for $8). I love it. I'm worried about having my identity stolen and this was one way I felt I could guard against that. Before I recycle our mail or anything with our name and address on it, I use this stamp. I used to use a Sharpie, but this works so much better. I highly recommend it.
A Christmas of Firsts
This Christmas was incredibly hard. I think our most difficult ever to be honest. It was a Christmas of firsts.
First Christmas without PeePaw, Brian's dad.
First Christmas without our son Jonathan. I would have been 8 months pregnant.
First Christmas without my grandma. She passed away just a few short weeks ago.
I wasn't looking forward to this day, but I didn't really have a choice. The girls insisted the holidays go on and that's just what we did. For them we celebrated.
Christmas Morning
Waiting to come downstairs......
After opening up our presents, we headed up to Indiana.......
Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow.....
First Christmas without PeePaw, Brian's dad.
First Christmas without our son Jonathan. I would have been 8 months pregnant.
First Christmas without my grandma. She passed away just a few short weeks ago.
I wasn't looking forward to this day, but I didn't really have a choice. The girls insisted the holidays go on and that's just what we did. For them we celebrated.
Christmas Morning
Waiting to come downstairs......
After opening up our presents, we headed up to Indiana.......
Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow.....
Praying for an awesome 2011!
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