tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87552653088985201192024-03-05T00:03:26.936-05:00YOU COME LIKE THE RAIN.....….once our eyes are opened, we can not pretend we do not know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows that we know and holds us responsible to act. –Prov 24:12Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-49230450321816847842014-09-21T20:11:00.000-04:002014-09-21T20:13:00.542-04:00Clear the StageClear the stage and set the sound and lights ablaze<br />
If that's the measure you must take to crush the idols <br />
Jerk the pews and all the decorations, too<br />
Until the congregation's few, then have revival<br />
<b>Tell your friends that this is where the party ends<br />
Until you're broken for your sins, you can't be social</b><br />
Then seek the Lord and wait for what he has in store<br />
And know that great is your reward so just be hopeful<br />
<br />
Take a break from all the plans that you have made<br />
And sit at home alone and wait for God to whisper<br />
Beg him please to open up his mouth and speak<br />
And pray for real upon your knees until they blister<br />
<b>Shine the light on every corner of your life<br />
Until the pride and lust and lies are in the open</b><br />
Then read the word and put to test the things you've heard<br />
Until your heart and soul are stirred and rocked and broken<br />
<br />
- Jimmy Needham "Clear the Stage"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hdPPuqECjworLfpirdbspdCmO4whRvu1_9XfvPOB_2WAu3pNaqigkfxlbnhedGb9W5v78Fe8ZM51HTzXz2KP2B27-HgZYKByhHYhfkQVJDtV8cu8tyi3xt-9NkyaR_MpBc1xEvCqlyRd/s1600/IMG_6750.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hdPPuqECjworLfpirdbspdCmO4whRvu1_9XfvPOB_2WAu3pNaqigkfxlbnhedGb9W5v78Fe8ZM51HTzXz2KP2B27-HgZYKByhHYhfkQVJDtV8cu8tyi3xt-9NkyaR_MpBc1xEvCqlyRd/s1600/IMG_6750.PNG" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Sweet Rwanda--God, is this my future? <br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-89722150250721577132014-08-21T23:13:00.001-04:002014-08-21T23:13:19.185-04:00Living with extreme purposeWell, my husband made it home safe from Rwanda on Sunday. I will post some pictures of his trip soon. When he came home I could tell he wasn't the same man. I want to know that man more deeply. My husband has found his calling. I've never seen him so joyful in my life. The weight of the world gone - the pain of work problems dulled. The joy of Jesus evident.<br />
<br />
We want to live with an extreme sense of purpose. God, take us where you want us. Keep us under your protection. May we never venture outside of your will, but help us never to be scared to leave it all behind for the sake of YOUR name. May we never build a name for ourselves - may we always stay humble. Protect our children. Help us show them how life is meant to be lived.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-14853706629808267892014-08-09T21:56:00.005-04:002014-08-09T22:00:21.343-04:00The Pain and Suffering of a Cronically Ill Family MemberIf I wrote a novel, I couldn't put into the words the pain and suffering that my father has endured over the past eight years since he was diagnosis with pancreatic cancer (and won). I think when it first happened we understood that he would get the Whipple surgery; do chemo, and then radiation. Then, if he survived all of that, he would be on his way to healing. However, it's been a living nightmare the last eight years. One thing after another--a mystery stabbing pain in his belly that brings him to his knees. A paralyzed stomach, therefore, all he can eat is a handful of items that mostly consisting of Ensures and high-calorie soft snacks that go down easy. But even with food restrictions he still deals with extreme nausea and vomiting almost daily. He also has a bile duct that does not work, so he is living right now with a bag hanging off of his side collecting the bile that was previously poisoning his body.<br />
<br />
And here's the thing, he's a believing, professing, and God fearing man. He has people praying for him every day and they have been for the last eight years. He is gentle, kind, generous, smart, and funny. He is young (50 at diagnosis and 58 now) but, he has suffered more in the last eight years than anyone I've ever met. I know there has to be days he imagines he is better off with Jesus, although, he's never said that. He never remarks, poor me, why me, why can't I get better? He trusts that God is in control - and that he is not. I have cried out to God over and over and over again, heal my daddy – bring him back to us. But the silence from heaven is deafening. <br />
<br />
As I type this, my jaw is tight, my throat has a lump in it, and my eyes are watery. I'm sick and tired of my dad being sick and tired. The hardest thing I’ve ever endured in my life is watching my dad suffer. I'm tired of not being a "normal" family. I'm tired of canceling plans every time we make them because he's so sick he has to go home and laydown. I'm tired of watching people enjoy their parents, take vacations, or even do a simple family dinner. I’m tired of feeling jealous. <br />
<br />
I encourage you today my friends, slow down. And if you have the honor of a parent still alive, call them, hug them, and spend the extra money to bring them on a family trip with you. Give your children the pleasure of REALLY getting to know them. And maybe you should (re) get to know your parents as well. Maybe you need forgive a parent for hurting you in the past? Maybe you need to ask for forgiveness from a parent? I understand that sometimes the grown child and parent relationship can be strained from past hurts, abuse and mistrust. Trust me, I get that. My husband’s abusive father was killed in a car accident five years ago; we have walked that difficult path as well. <br />
<br />
Tonight I will cry myself to sleep again, begging God to continue to keep my father alive--all the while begging him to take him if it means eight more years of suffering and pain. It is a difficult predicament to be in as a child of a father who is her hero. God, he is such a good man. The best. I’ve learned more about life from my father than anyone. I’ve learned how to give freely, how to trust, how to believe, how to care, how to take charge and get things done. How to be confident in myself and how to follow my dreams. But most of all I've learned how to be a parent from watching my precious father. He loves his family fiercely; his grandchildren are his most-precious treasure. His grandchildren see him in bed more than they see him out of bed, but they love him just the same. Their deep devotion to him makes my heart skip a beat. Thank you God for giving us this special time--extra time, to love, enjoy and relish in the time we do have together. <br />
<br />
So tonight hug your children, husband, wife, sister, brother, father and mother a little tighter. Be present when you’re in the moment. Allow the time with loved ones to count. And most of all, trust that Jesus has a plan, even if we never understand the plan on this side of heaven. <br />
<br />
Keep fighting my precious father. I love you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-13891800708019935752014-08-06T22:53:00.001-04:002014-08-06T22:54:40.590-04:00Single Parent day 7I've totally got this single parent thing down. I'm seven days in and feeling pretty confident, but let's be REAL here (because I'm 100% all about real mommyhood -- no one likes a liar, right?) - I've got a LOT of help ha-ha. My twins are at Highland Park Church 5 days a week until next Friday, and the girls have been at horse camp all week. So I must say - besides crazy mornings getting everyone fed, clothed, and lunches packed and crazy nights, dinner, baths, etc., life has been GOOD. I've been able to get all my homework finished (WOOHOO) and have managed to keep the house pretty clean. <br />
<br />
I've heard from Brett a few times; he said he was having a wonderful time. I'm over the top happy for him. My heart is bursting with joy. I pray every night that God will speak clearly to him and give him direction for our family as we finish up schooling in the next few years, what will our future look like? It's pretty cool to think about what our next step will be and how God will use us and our family. <br />
<br />
Okay, a few fun single parenting lessons I've learned in case you were wondering (I know you are on the edge of your seat, it's cool, I've got GREAT advice bahaha...)<br />
<br />
1. Straight Duggar style your kids.....this means bringing out the buddy system. My bigs are helping me so much with the littles. In fact, the bigs fed the littles last night, and I have NO idea what they ate (I was doing homework haha), but they ate, so we are ship shape, right? <br />
<br />
2. Don't put your kids in clothes unless you need to. Way less laundry.<br />
<br />
3. Buy a lot of Lunchables, enough said.<br />
<br />
4. Continue to let your bigs sleep in the bed with you, they are great snuggle buddies.<br />
<br />
5. Pray.<br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-16706404103748922652014-08-02T21:49:00.000-04:002014-08-02T21:53:26.874-04:00Day 1 - Operation Single Mom (for 17 days)It has been 1 day since Brett left for Africa. First things first, he is in Rwanda safe and sound at the Nazarene compound. I got a call around 1:00pm our time when they landed and then again around 4:30 when they were at the compound about to turn in for the night. The 6 hour time difference I'm sure is a very difficult adjustment but hopefully tonight they all get some rest.<br />
<br />
A few things I learned about single parenting day 1:<br />
1. Have family come help - they make the day go faster and honestly who is better than family? No one. Period.<br />
2. Don't have two year old twins. Enough said.<br />
3. Have a birthday party lined up for the older kids so they can get out of the house (yeah this is not exactly easy but, hey I'm sure if you took them to the nearest Family Fun Center there's bound to be a party your kid can join- I mean honestly who actually keeps track of each kid at those kinds of places? It's a freaking zoo, folks.)<br />
4. Give your two year old twins an early nap so you can ensure an early bed time. This is key to your sanity later in the evening.<br />
5. Let big girls share the bed with you. You're lonely anyways, why not let them sleep on one side and you (and a huge maternity pillow you haven't haven't given up for 2.5 years) on the other.<br />
6. Let your big girls ask a ridiculous amount of kid questions once in said bed. Here is a few from tonight, "Ok, so is Jesus and God the same person?" "What are foster kids?" And last but not least "Can you be my mommy forever?" And of course my response to those are,"Yes, they are the same but different (super helpful in a 6 year olds brain). "They are kids who need someone to look after them while their mommy and daddy get help" and "Yes, I can. Can you stay 6 forever?"<br />
7. Soak up every freaking second of those 6 year olds they are precious human beings.<br />
<br />
I'm sure I'll have a ton of more great wisdom tomorrow as we enter into day 2 of 17 as a single parent to 4 littles.<br />
<br />
Please keep praying for my hubby and his team every chance you get.<br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-92120607761054883872014-07-31T23:19:00.001-04:002014-08-02T01:38:58.005-04:00Brett heads to Africa tomorrowWell, the day has come. Tomorrow morning Brett leads a team of 9 to Rwanda to continue work on the Nazarene School they started in a small village three years age. I know he's nervous, anxious and excited. We are all of those things for him too. I'm proud to be his wife, sometimes I'm not sure how I got so lucky and I don't brag on him enough but he's once heck of a daddy. Our home life with 4 littles is NOT for the faint of heart. But he takes it all with a grain of salt and is always willing to pull equal weight. God, protect my sweet, gentle, and kind husband as he ventures out of his comfort zone. You have placed a call on our lives - we know it. Open our eyes so we can see what you have for us and give is big, brave and bold dreams. Not for our glory, not for our fame, no more of our name but more of Your name. Give Brett clarity and peace as he goes places he's never been and allow us to trust that you are God and we are not. Amen.<br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-18596591916515608762014-07-21T21:49:00.002-04:002014-08-02T01:39:55.270-04:00Leslie, remember this feeling ok?Why does it hurt so bad to be left out? Am I not that fun? Is my husband not fun? Do we stink, I mean literally do we have BO? Is my hair ugly? Am I too bossy? Did we say or do something wrong? Do we not offer enough of what you need, so we are just tossed aside? Just trying to remember this feeling for my own ministry one day....<br />
<br />
Leslie - don't do this, okay?<br />
<br />
Facebook free update time, what what? I'm still off Facebook and going strong. I have NO idea what is going on in the day to day lives of the 400+ "friends" I had and as bad as it to say this, it's so refreshing. When someone has something important to tell me, guess what they do? They call or email me...personally. What a concept, truly. And when I have big news I get to call my friends too. Woohoo, I'm making strives to love my friends and connect with them because I choose to connect with them. I am also choosing not pretend that my life is perfect, it isn't. It's hard to have four young children, REALLY REALLY hard. It's hard to go back to school. It's hard to be a pastor's wife. I feel alone SO much. I don't feel any connection to the people who you would think would understand the most, they don't. It's hard to be the Christian I claim to be. It's hard to help run a ministry. It's hard to let go of the control that social media has on my life. But I have. One step at a time to freedom. I pray I'm always free from the lies that social media tells, and I pray that God will continue to show me that he is enough.<br />
<br />
One last thing before I go. Brett and I purchased a piece of land today. It's a great little lot in the historic district of Lakeland. We are going to be build something on it and rent it out...I'll keep you posted.<br />
<br />
Leslie<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-83020227843529655562014-07-18T23:19:00.001-04:002014-08-02T01:48:28.849-04:00Late night purge...Well, a lot as happened since I posted last. Let's see;<br />
<br />
1. I started Pentecostal Theology (my 4th Masters level class at SEU).<br />
<br />
2. I started Christian Education for All Ages with the Nazarene Bible Institute (class for my course of study to become an ordained pastor in the Nazarene church).<br />
<br />
3. I've been out to Carver a few times this summer. Today, I was able to witness an HIV-positive young man come to trust in The Lord and our ministry(a year+ in the making). Carver Ministries was able to get him on a train right away to New York (complete with a months worth of phone time, new shoes, shorts, shirts, socks etc. Because he literally only had rags, as he was homeless at Carver) to get him the medical help and shelter that he needs with Catholic Charities.<br />
<br />
God was able to get this young, medically fragile, and forgotten young man out of Carver and into hands that love him. He finally understood he is worth it. His life matters. His past, so horrific that no human should have to endure. There is nothing that can replace the moments I got to witness today. Nothing. I don't care how famous or special or cool or popular you are - being humbled by your savior reminds you that being the lowest of the low is where we truly belong. Lord remind me again and again "lower still," so low that people will never know the name of Carver or Leslie or Jessie but only know the ministry as, the place God dwells. The place that God revived from the deep grasp of Satan himself.<br />
<br />
4. My sweet hubby heads too Africa in two weeks for 17 days. So I'm home alone with the kiddos. Pray for me and pray for Brett as he works, witnesses, and loves. My prayer for him is that he comes back never to be the same. Never ever.<br />
<br />
5. My dad has been suffering a lot with his liver tube that's hanging off his side collecting his bile while they stretch his bile duct for the 3rd time in a year. It's hard to watch your dad suffer. He's so brave. He's lived eight years past diagnosis of pancreatic cancer (pretty much not even physically possible) I'm pretty sure my dad is cooler than yours ;). No, but seriously, my relationship with my dad hit an all time low a few months ago and since then we have been on a steady incline upwards. We talk almost every day now. If I were to be honest with myself, I would say this - I was too scared to get too close to him. I was afraid that if I did, he would be taken away, and I would be left in shambles. But God has shown me that no matter what happens to my dad it's my job to love him where he is, which is on this earth. I'm embracing that and believing more and more that he just might actually live. It's taken me eight years to believe that.<br />
<br />
6. My children are crazy, funny, challenging and well crazy (did I say that already?) true story. Kate and Ella are obsessed with their new American Girl dolls that they saved their money to buy (way to go girls). And Nolan and Nora are well...two-year-old twins....you can imagine that, can't you?<br />
<br />
7. I'm leading two classes at Highland Park Church this fall. I'm excited and nervous.<br />
<br />
8. I'm going to NYC in October with two sweet high school friends. I cannot wait. Girl time is pretty special, and I'm so grateful for friends that go the distance with me. Those friends are few and far between.<br />
<br />
So that's the latest in the exciting life of the Blondell family, party of 6.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Leslie<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-25143009112471144272014-06-22T00:00:00.000-04:002014-08-02T01:51:18.794-04:00So, here's the ugly truth....I've come to the realization that I'm not who I say I am, I'm not who I think I am. I am nothing. I didn't realize that a few weeks ago. And here's the cool thing, I don't mean that in a depressing, poor me, I am nothing without God cliche. This is what I actually mean - I am nothing. The John 3:30 nothing - He must become grater and I must become less. I may look like I have it all together on the outside. A handsome husband, 4 amazing kids, a big house, nice cars, an education and getting more of that as we speak (the list goes on). But here's the thing - I'm a jealous fool. I look at what everyone else has and I want it too. I literally fight my flesh every single day of my life, but I bet if we are really honest with ourselves (painfully honest) we would admit that we all do. I'm a wife of a pastor who hasn't cracked her bible in weeks and before that - months. I'm real, I'm honest, I'm fierce, I'm a cusser, I hate legalism, When I say I'm going to do something - I do it. I'm strong willed, I'm a natural leader, I think everyone should adopt a child (yep I actually believe that and you can't convenes me otherwise.) I'm called to the ministry and I'm scared to death - did you just read the list of my flaws? I am nothing. I am nobody. I will never be a household name. But I will always love Jesus. I knew I was called into the ministry as a teenager - I didn't listen then. But I'm listening now. I'm sorry Lord - I'm Sorry that it took me 31 years to say yes to you. <br />
<br />
I deactivated my Facebook account about two weeks ago and haven't looked back. I've realized that I don't need validation from people only seeing the good part of me and it's freeing. More free than I've been in the 5 or more years I've been on Facebook. I may be the last one to find out the latest gossip but maybe that's ok. It's ok to keep reminding myself that I am nothing. And maybe that nothing can become peace in my spirit. Maybe that nothing will start to bring joy to my foolish, ugly, prideful, hateful heart.<br />
<br />
Jesus rescue me before it's too late - because being good enough in the flesh, isn't really good enough at all. Being 100% sold out to the ministry that I'm called to do - now that is good. That's worth fighting for. That's worth spending the next 3 full years in school reminding myself I am nothing but he is everything.<br />
<br />
I love you Jesus thank you for loving me back.<br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-8146704198115969982013-12-13T18:53:00.000-05:002014-07-21T21:55:11.918-04:00Little ramblings tonightListening to a song called Bones by Hillsong United, over and over and again. What a great way to “wake up” my spirit these last few days.<br /><br />I’ve looked around a lot lately and seen a lot of people doing a LOT of good in their lives and the lives of those that they cross paths. Why do I get envious of what everyone else is doing and fail to see any good in my own life? I’m feeling very inadequate. Lord I pray for your peace to rise in my soul....may I continue to listen to your still small voice even in the middle of all the chaos that is my life. <br /><br />My new adventure in my season of “preparation”:<br /><br />I wanted to make sure I wrote this down for myself, so I can look back in a few months and remember why I choose to do this haha. A few months back a friend and I were talking and she said, “Leslie, you have to embrace the time when you are feeling “stuck” as a time of preparation." I’ve been feeling very “stuck” lately. A stirring that I get every so often, when I become too comfortable in my sweet sweet American life. My husband is currently 2 years into a 4 year program to become an ordained Nazarene Pastor. And here we are, perfectly happy, at a big, beautiful, wonderfully awesome church in Lakeland. We wouldn’t want to be anywhere else as we go through this time of “preparation”. We are blessed. But that doesn’t stop the stirring I continue to get every so often. <br /><br />We were recently on a trip to California with the church staff and as I talked with a few of the other pastors about my feelings about this time of preparation we have been in. What spoke to me like nothing that had ever spoken to me before was this simple statement “You do not need a degree to be a Christian or to be a disciple of Christ or to do good for his kingdom. BUT, the people you serve are WORTHY of a degree.” WOW. I had been feeling a little inadequate when it comes to my actual gospel training and I knew Jesus spoke to BOTH of those friends with those words directly from Heaven. So here I am, signed up to get my Masters Degree from Southeastern University in Ministerial Leadership starting the first of January. Brett and I will finish around the same time. Mine is a part-time two year Masters Degree. The timing is perfect, Jesus confirmed what I knew I needed to do, twice. So I just jumped. <br /><br />I realize that while we are in this season of our lives I canNOT look around, see what everyone else is doing and be envious or allow Satan to tell me what we are doing is not good enough. He has a way of doing that sometimes. I pray that our family continues to push through these next two years as we embrace who we are as a family, preparing ourselves for what Jesus has in store for us. Jesus, protect our hearts and allow us to pursue your gospel the way that YOU have ordained for OUR lives. May this be OUR story, perfectly imperfect. <br /><br />On a totally unrelated note. I’m headed to Haiti December 26th-30th. Please pray for our time there. Looking forward to Jesus to be revealed to me. I’m not dumb enough to think that my 5 days in a country like Haiti will do any good for THEM but I’m begging God to stir something deep within me to continue the Blondell story, however he see’s fit. <br /><br />A little Blondell kids update;<br /><br />Kate and Ella are just finishing up their first half of Kindergarten at Lakeland Christian School. They are really enjoying themselves and seem to be doing very well. They are also on the Lakeland Area swim team which has been great for them. They also do gymnastics one day a week (when we can make it haha). <br /><br />The twins are in the toddler room at Little Shepherds and have two of the sweetest teachers. We are very happy there, like we always are ;). They are starting to do a lot of talking now that they are two but continue to do a lot of “twin talk” in which I have NO idea what is going on, but they crack each other up constantly which is a treat to watch. <br /><br />Thankful for all my sweet sweet babies, thankful that the Lord saw us fit to raise this family. There sure do make life worth living. <br /><br />I guess that’s all for now.<br /><br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
AFYG</div>
<div>
Leslie</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-2709459208111330762013-06-26T14:54:00.000-04:002013-06-26T14:54:07.990-04:00Drowning I feel like I'm drowning in American Christianity again. I'm so cynical and sad. I hate feeling this way please tell me it happens even in 3rd world countries? But I already know the answer. Today I drove a momma (our poorest of poor besides actually being homeless) 45 mins to get her PHONE fixed. And I can't help but think - is this it? We talked, listened to praise music - we are friends. She's a lesbian, living with her girl friend and her 5 children in a free apartment. The government gives her food, shelter and enough for clothing and she (and THEM) seem to think that's plenty. Which it is. But there is so much more. Jesus. They know who Jesus is but reject him bc he's the western Jesus and lets be honest the Western Jesus doesn't look a whole lot like the Real Jesus. And they have the government to be their Jesus. I'm wrapped up in America - I have so much I don't think I could spend it all if I tried. And I hear God whisper - "give it all up.". I'm the rich man who walks away.....<br />
<br />
My heart has been pierced by the tongues of friends and enemies alike. It hurts. But his cause is more than words typed out. More than slanderous tongues or lost integrity. I want to keep my integrity. I've failed. Grace oh beautiful Grace can you cover me again? I've asked before but I need you again. I remember the cross and all it means I remember his grace is FREE to me but cost the heaviest price for HIM. Thank you for that Jesus. <br />
<br />
Oh heavy heart be still and wait for The Lord to move. Jesus fight for me and help me continue to fight for you. Guard me from those you warn me about and guard me from those people you know about. May it be here on earth as it is Heaven.<br />
<br />
Psalm 15<br />
Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whoses walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; who despises a vile person but honors those who fear The Lord; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; who lends money to the poor without interest; who accepts a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken.<br />
<br />
Amen.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-47603272833726574702012-12-22T21:08:00.001-05:002016-09-10T00:16:09.861-04:00Kate’s Adoption Story - A promise fulfilled My sweet girl Kate turns 5 this week, she is my little Christmas miracle. As I reflect back on the story of how she came to be my daughter I can’t help but get choked up. I can't believe it’s been 5 years since we got the phone call that her birth mother was in labor and that SHE (we didn’t know the sex of the baby) would be here soon. We had been chosen by her birth mother and father to parent their sweet baby girl 4 months prior and it was a LONG wait. It was a full on roller coaster ride of emotions. Not only did we get pregnant with Ella just one month after the match (yes with the help of fertility drugs) but half way through the wait our agency was closed down. We had to rush to figure out a plan to work with the old agency AND a new lawyer to make it happen, a HUGE feat. It could, it SHOULD have fallen apart but it didn’t - God was faithful.<br />
<br />
After she was born we had to wait 24hrs before her birth mother was ready for us to come up to the hospital. You would have thought those 24hrs were longer than the 4 months we had already waited. It was torture but we wanted to honor her wishes. So we waited, we prayed and dreamed about the life we would have with our new daughter. We first met her birth mother and father along with their two children (Kate was in the nursery at that time). The FIRST thing her birth father said to me was, “We are sure about this please don’t worry, we are not changing our minds." I was shocked those were his first words, words of comfort from a man going through one of the hardest decision of his life and he was more worried about us than himself. This was the first clue that Kate was coming from some of the most selfless people I’ve ever met. We got to spend a good amount of time with her family and then they called down to have Kate brought up. Her birth father, brother, and sister went down stairs and waited....<br />
<br />
The door opened and Kate was brought in. She was in her tiny hospital cradle, wrapped like a little burrito with a tiny hat on her sweet round head. I couldn't believe my eyes - she was so beautiful. I didn’t know what to do so or how to act so I just walked over put my hand on her belly and smiled at her. I remember thinking to myself, hello little girl, I am your mommy. Her birth mother had little emotion before Kate was brought in but when she saw how much I loved her daughter she turned radiant - I will never forget her look, she was SO proud of what she created. I could see her pain start to ease (even if only for a second) as she saw the love I had for Kate. <br />
<br />
After a few minutes I asked if I could hold her and her birth mother said of course - so I did. I scooped that sweet baby girl into my arms and I melted. She was more than I could have ever dreamed or asked for. She had the roundest face with a tiny crease between her big blue eyes. My arms were full, my heart was happy and my life would never be the same. But my heart was also heavy for the great loss that her birth mother was feeling. However, it wouldn’t be until I gave birth to Ella a few months later that I would FULLY understand the loss that she felt that day. I have prayed every day for the last 5 years that her birth mother would feel in her spirit that her sweet baby girl was well taken care of and loved deeply. I prayed for comfort for her and for peace that passes all understanding. And mostly I prayed for good to follow her family the rest of their days. I think of them often and I think of them most when the holiday’s are upon us. There are no words that are adequate to express my gratitude to her parents - they chose LIFE for their baby girl over death. And they chose to give her a life they would not be able to give her but most of all, they chose us. <br />
<br />
After our meeting with Kate we went down stairs to be with her brother and sister while her parents signed all the documents. Her siblings were nothing but pure joy. Two of the most well behaved and kind children I had ever met and I hoped in those moments that one day we would meet again. After the paper work was signed her birth mother was discharged and they came down stairs to where we were. They gathered their children and walked over to us. Her mother gave me a hug, no words just a hug and turned to walk away. She didn’t need to say anything - I knew. Her father walked over to us, gave us both a hug and with tears in his eyes he said one final thing “take care of my girl.” I nodded to him and there was nothing else to be said, no more papers to be signed and no more worry. God had all 7 of us wrapped in his loving arms. <br />
<br />
That was the night a true love story started. Beauty from ashes, a life of hope and promise for one tiny girl and two new parents.....<br />
<br />
<br />
To Kate;<br />
XOXO my sweet baby girl, Kate Isabella. The world is a better place with you in it. I use to cradle you in my arms and hold you as tight as I could, there were times when I was holding you that I would cry so hard with joy that my body hurt physically hurt. I just could NOT believe that you were mine. The deep connection I have to you pierces every inch of my body. Just as Christ adopted us into his family you are an every day reminder of his love and perfect will for our lives. I will end this blog tonight how by saying what I say on each of your birthdays when I give you some love on Facebook (ha-ha) - Kate Isabella Blondell, you are dearly loved.....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-91042020096840262012012-08-15T10:41:00.002-04:002012-08-16T08:19:37.864-04:00Chalkboard Words and Prosperity GospelIn our house we have two huge chalk boards. One is in the kids play room for them to use and one is for "adult fun.” For all the adults who want to bring it back old school they can play on this one....it’s pretty awesome. (Now to the point of my story) We have a small problem with saying words that aren’t really cuss words per-say but our elementary school teacher friend said that we would totally get in trouble at school if we said them. So we put those words up on the chalkboard in a circle with a line going through them and then our names next to it. Each time we use the words when we are around each other we laugh go to the chalk board and put an X by our name. It’s really a running joke EXCEPT one word on there (check out number 9 on the list);<br />
<br />
1. Freaking<br />
2. Butt - in any reference<br />
3. Crap<br />
4. “B.S”<br />
5. Heck<br />
6. “P.O.S”<br />
7. Flippin<br />
8. Stupid<br />
Last but NOT least<br />
9. PROSPERITY GOSPEL<br />
<br />
Prosperity gospel is NO joke around here. We don’t like to use these words in our house. Mainly because we feel it's just not biblical. Not from what we read or study from the bible. Does the Lord want you healthy...of course...sometimes he heals you miraculously and sometimes he uses a doctor, HE IS GOD AND WE ARE NOT. But he sure doesn’t want you “rich” and I won’t even go into the ridiculous amount of scriptures that back this put up. The reality is this - Jesus was NOT exaggerating when he said the road is narrow and MANY will be shocked on judgement day. We are living our American lives trying to keep up with the Jones. We try to fill our lives full of stuff and we are sitting in the nurseries of our churches drinking spiritual milk. We are ugly to each other when we don’t agree on issues. We don’t help the poor, the widows, the orphans or the homeless. We throw money at things and think that’s enough. But the reality is this, God needs you. He needs to you to say YES to his gospel. To go to the ends of the earth to preach his love and save lives. Millions upon millions are dying every single day in 3rd world countries and right here in America, almost none of who know the name of Jesus and who are damned to a life in Hell. And we close our eyes and pretend it isn’t happening. I am guilty. We all are guilty. My heart is heavy today for those in our own community that need Jesus. The reason why so many other countries are seeing revival is because they are SO POOR that all they have is Jesus. They have a child like faith. God is good, he is gracious and our salvation is NOT at stake here but we have to wake up, get off the spiritual milk and starting eating the meat of the gospel. It doesn’t always feel good. It doesn’t always feel safe. You will not always be “rich” but that’s not what Jesus promised. But he did promise that he will be with you and that there would always be enough and thats enough for me. Start taking in widows, single moms, orphans and the poor and start seeing Jesus in their eyes. Start sharing your faith to your friends and your family. And do it in LOVE not out of a religious obligation but out of a pure love.<br />
<br />
I will finish with a portion of a sermon by a man who lived Jesus. If you don’t know who Keith Green is, look him up, he’s worth reading about.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana, arial; font-size: 13px;"><i><b><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;">Selfish, "Blessed"</span><span style="color: #993300; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: medium;">and Feelings-Oriented "Converts"</span></b></i></span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Anyone who is made to believe he becomes a Christian under such preaching will seldom bring forth the true fruits of a real convert.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">He will remain just as selfish as he always was, only now his selfishness will take on a religious form. If he wants something for himself, he will say he "has a burden" for something, or he will say, "It is the desire of my heart," or some other religious-sounding phrase like that.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">He will pray selfishly, desiring blessings for himself, and even if he does pray for others, it usually will be for selfish reasons. After all, when he "accepted the Lord," he was told how much Jesus wanted to bless him and how much God had stored up for his account, and how the Bible was like "a checkbook full of promises, just waiting to be cashed!"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Such a person always seeks to "feel" good about himself, his own church, his own pastor, etc. His whole world is built on </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>feeling blessed</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">. He was never shown how he was </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i>created to bless God...</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> God was not created to bless him. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i>(Ps 149:4; Phil. 2:13)</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i><br /></i></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i><br /></i></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i><br /></i></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i><br /></i></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">And here is a picture of the chalkboard just so you have an idea of how fun it is.....</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWUIF2WYcXgGBYpCrz5I3aRE29ZotSmjE_9s7frm59m0uzLubDDzALIsNXTzP7JKmdrkI7fRw1JnIhQA0q4e1UoaaEdYd8gCqlKRNvvaNlz153_p8ZdD5hZ-GJeBcQ8SiLm-uS8xF5mVg/s1600/photo-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWUIF2WYcXgGBYpCrz5I3aRE29ZotSmjE_9s7frm59m0uzLubDDzALIsNXTzP7JKmdrkI7fRw1JnIhQA0q4e1UoaaEdYd8gCqlKRNvvaNlz153_p8ZdD5hZ-GJeBcQ8SiLm-uS8xF5mVg/s320/photo-7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">AFYG,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Leslie</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-38623299363786754582012-07-01T20:58:00.006-04:002012-07-01T21:20:25.347-04:00Are we going to Die in our Religion? Or are we going to die in our Devotion?This except from a sermon preached by David Platt a few years ago has ROCKED my WORLD today (the video is linked below). I can not get it out of my head.<br />
<br />
Two days ago my husband and I sat at our dining room table in our “new” house after a particularly emotional day/week. As we talked he broke down. Our church, our family, our lives, and our “things” are not enough and they never will be. You see, we are at the top. And the top does not satisfy like the “American Dream” promises. Our serving others in need (like our churches should do) and our Devotion to God is the only thing that will truly satisfy our hunger. This quote comes to mind and I think speaks directly to this issue;<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Open Sans'; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; text-decoration: underline;">Are we settling for Christianity that rev</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Open Sans'; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; text-decoration: underline;">olves around catering to ourselves when the central message of Christianity is actually about</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Open Sans'; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; text-decoration: underline;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Open Sans'; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; text-decoration: underline;"><em>abandoning ourselves</em></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Open Sans'; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; text-decoration: underline;">?”</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Open Sans'; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; text-decoration: underline;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Open Sans'; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"> -DP</span><br />
<br />
If you have 4 minutes to spare, please watch this video, it will change you. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6hRkOMgohQE?fs=1" width="459"></iframe><br />
<br />
Leslie<br />
<br />
p.s.: We go to Haiti in 20 days, please keep us in your prayers as we prepare for whats in store. And please, particularly pray for my vertigo as we go - it sometimes acts up when I am at different altitudes.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-41633688223781371792012-06-05T20:33:00.002-04:002012-06-05T20:33:20.793-04:00Picture Tuesday.....I haven’t posted very many pictures recently (actually I haven’t posted at all recently) so I thought I would be an overly obnoxious mom and post some pictures of my super awesome kids. Yep, I said it....they are awesome. I think most people look at me a 29 year old with 4 kids under the age of 4 and pity me but I swear when I say that the more kids you have the easier it is. When you have one kid its ALL consuming. They need 100% of your attention at all times, or you at least think that you have to give them 100% attention at all times. When you have two they quickly learn that they can’t always have momma all the time. When you have 3 (well, I wouldn’t know I’ve never only had 3 kids)....but when you have 4 kids all your kids know momma is stretched thin and I swear they give me a break because of it ha-ha. The big girls help me SO much with the twins and the twins are SUCH good babies that is hard to complain at all. My only issue still is getting out alone with all 4 kids because having two babies in public is just hard....lets not sugar coat it haha. <br />
<br />
I’ve had a few mommy moments lately. My big girls, Kate and Ella, are changing schools next year to go to a WONDERFUL VPK program that they got into (pre-kindgergarden for those who don’t live in Florida). Which means we are leaving our beloved Little Shepherds Pre-School. We have had A LOT of wonderful memories over the last 4 years at Little Shepherds. They got me through a lot of hard times when Kate and Ella were babies. Their 2 year old teachers walked with me while I went through the IVF process last year and cheered me on the whole time. And this year Kate and Ella’s 3 year old teachers really were there for my girls when the twins where born. They helped us get through a rough few first months with two newborns. We truly have been blessed by some pretty amazing people. Anyways, enough mommy stories haha.....on to the good stuff - Some updated pictures of 4 pretty cool kids<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0ZvFr4l31AhObczo6n1fbXL9R1dAbHZdUgHSAslTfMDNX2O6TfsWfyGWMLkty3EV8L1W7j_WPbMZHDovGBE_e1KME4VcJr7bTBkr7g0NF0DiQcUAhkCF2NsjDODOoP3ALrpDpPteOIIZ/s1600/kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_0ZvFr4l31AhObczo6n1fbXL9R1dAbHZdUgHSAslTfMDNX2O6TfsWfyGWMLkty3EV8L1W7j_WPbMZHDovGBE_e1KME4VcJr7bTBkr7g0NF0DiQcUAhkCF2NsjDODOoP3ALrpDpPteOIIZ/s400/kids.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ella, Nolan, Nora and Kate</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24LYcpqrtrTz5UJQ24bP-HnE4iMj_Jwa7uvDU6b6W7buhMgs9xrZM8Bk_xaTlTLTG2i0O1h8qvZ_dmeLdjKoHBSkFX_fubga622yQyTtifQcyDeu2Qb5bchLt5ZVOXPovvcSvn5_QnI27/s1600/n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24LYcpqrtrTz5UJQ24bP-HnE4iMj_Jwa7uvDU6b6W7buhMgs9xrZM8Bk_xaTlTLTG2i0O1h8qvZ_dmeLdjKoHBSkFX_fubga622yQyTtifQcyDeu2Qb5bchLt5ZVOXPovvcSvn5_QnI27/s400/n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Little Man Nolan </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7xEix69oiwYL_wS3-XDFUk-4g62Aob-CPTNzdfzLOo_uDeS8FdCU9JCVuVzEIZiOIdo8h9xEzlF9LqT1LmZ2o44U7zotOWXzefkKsGE-qo815c-YuYlHdq17arLlPDMJBL15at3M8Mm6/s1600/nandn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii7xEix69oiwYL_wS3-XDFUk-4g62Aob-CPTNzdfzLOo_uDeS8FdCU9JCVuVzEIZiOIdo8h9xEzlF9LqT1LmZ2o44U7zotOWXzefkKsGE-qo815c-YuYlHdq17arLlPDMJBL15at3M8Mm6/s400/nandn.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The twins</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGHBWpfCxQgA-O9z56uZecpNyKD8ysZ4f9PTx5PXkDe9G61JVQB6HerY-KdJkjZbg4_XMxEGJpfV-CtbGoutQvBc7GEIJ06TbhOFgg_OGI2PMR_Q_lpntob06WM_-PYc7ifpKn2lhNXUK/s1600/kande.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGHBWpfCxQgA-O9z56uZecpNyKD8ysZ4f9PTx5PXkDe9G61JVQB6HerY-KdJkjZbg4_XMxEGJpfV-CtbGoutQvBc7GEIJ06TbhOFgg_OGI2PMR_Q_lpntob06WM_-PYc7ifpKn2lhNXUK/s400/kande.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ella and Kate’s on their last day at Little Shepherds Pre-School **tear**</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And last but not least this a proud momma moment - The girls, Kate (4) and Ella (3), saying the Lords prayer....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-picasa-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhteaYtRbtRVOob57F3gtbGbbmFP3B1shEjpgqK_a3KAYEwY5Gx_S0zLE8XisazkDO-Hv8igQKSHNl9WcmNFeRDe-LAJLCSQ4nfzJ-_LVg15D0I4wmQtkvdsDBfJkHtiDlZWY7AUyXjrUpJ/s1600/IMG_3386.mov" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3Def5704c054e380a3%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1338964109%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3D291887885541BAE7D7A5CAE3F5896722639FA76F.6490F4D659951004B969A02B93695BB2E39E3B1E%26key%3Dlh1" />
<param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" />
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" />
<embed width="320" height="266" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3Def5704c054e380a3%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1338964109%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3D291887885541BAE7D7A5CAE3F5896722639FA76F.6490F4D659951004B969A02B93695BB2E39E3B1E%26key%3Dlh1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Okay well thats all for now. I have a lot to post about our new house (we hope to move in, in 3 weeks) I can’t wait to post pictures and we can’t wait to actually get into the house and start enjoying it! =))</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Leslie</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-59021708073961147502012-05-15T21:43:00.000-04:002012-05-15T21:43:13.354-04:00Yes Yes Yes....<br />
<div style="color: #333233; font: 15.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 14.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">“Something is wrong when our lives make sense to unbelievers.” - FC</span></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 15.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 14.0px 0.0px;">
Love this quote so much from Francis Chan. I’ve been watching and listen to a lot of his sermons on You Tube recently and they are just awesome. But this quote struck me the most. Our lives shouldn’t make sense to unbelievers. I keep having to remind myself of this when I start to feel self conscious about our decisions as a family and about decision we stand on as a family. Love love love....</div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 15.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 14.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #333233; font: 15.0px Arial; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 14.0px 0.0px;">
Leslie</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-22279249954762031742012-04-29T17:05:00.000-04:002012-04-29T17:07:53.067-04:00RadicalI just found this book again recently and I am re-reading it. It is called Radical by David Platt. Watch this video - it is pretty raw and well...life changing. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoicm4wnQ4c&feature=player_embedded" target="_blank">Radical</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-38497600578333435212012-04-11T19:33:00.000-04:002012-04-11T19:33:24.443-04:00Lord, please continue to break my heart for what breaks yours...Today I saw a man on the side of the road. He was crippled, clearly. He was asking for food, not money. Then I saw the lights on the cop car - flashing bright it pulled over and a woman got out. I don't know what she said but I imagine she told him to get out of here, you can't ask for things here, it's illegal. My heart sank I'm sure he had no where to go, no roof over his head, no food on the table, no family - but maybe he did. That wasn't for me to know right then. All I knew was that my heart hurt. My friend said it best today, "they are people, not objects to be tolerated." There is so much pain on the sides of the road, so much pain in this world. I pray that God will continue to move Brett and I and our family into the mission field in the years to come. Lord come, bring us every day new mercies and grace for those in need. <br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-16430582576166094852012-04-04T15:49:00.001-04:002012-04-04T15:49:23.744-04:00Dress Up Headquarters<a href="http://www.aturtleslifeforme.com/2011/05/dress-up-headquarters.html#.T3yltCTDcxs.blogger">Dress Up Headquarters</a><br />
<br />
Just wanted to post this because I'm SO doing this for the girls! =))Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-40231712775967594602012-04-03T15:20:00.000-04:002012-04-03T15:20:07.752-04:00PrayingWe have our lead paint/pipe inspection, 4 point home inspection and our termite inspection tomorrow. Praying for all to go well and there isn't any major issues to be addressed. If it all passes then we will be ready to move ahead with closing. We are scheduled to close on April 30th but we will be able to close much sooner if everything goes well tomorrow. So please pray with us as we ask God to protect our new house. <br />
<br />
As far as our current house goes, we had our apprasal today. We should know what it's going to come in at in a few days. Praying for the right number so we can list it on MLS and hopefully get a few bites. We have 3 people we know are at least semi interested at this point which is a huge blessing. We know that God has this under control and we are trusting in him to help us sell our house. He always provides and we know he will walk with us through this time in our lives as we strive to serve him with all our hearts.<br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-35222849670914742322012-03-26T21:23:00.001-04:002012-03-27T09:09:58.681-04:00Wait on God....do what he says....It's that simple....<br />
<br />
Awaken 12 revival at our church this week has been awesome. Tonight was so powerful - bathing our plans in prayer - waiting on God....then doing what he says. <br />
<br />
Prayer, prayer and more prayer that's what we will be doing over the next few months. <br />
<br />
I have so much to say.....will write again very soon. I just need to get my thoughts together a little bit more! =)<br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-25731205285950715342012-03-25T08:21:00.000-04:002012-03-25T08:21:24.192-04:00Fasting/PrayingThis week at Highland Park Church we are having a revival called Awakening. My husband and I have started the week off fasting/praying for God to show us some big things. We are confident that God will come and "awaken" us to new things. We are moving forward in our thinking and allowing God to lead our paths. I'm not scared - this is the first time in my life I feel I like ok God you have this....may your will be done. Whatever that means....<br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-33601123492890125152012-03-23T17:10:00.000-04:002012-03-23T17:10:33.941-04:00And some sweet pictures because having 4 kids really is good stuff...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our sweethearts - Kate and Ella</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQuwpkSBj57XiDiTscRBzssnTgfsyYDyg3s-ttlVAYFGngRE6LPkyu6LzdIsojj0b0rXKU1-ASni6nxoSbScjMZ1v6zsj8-3bCxuDvEf1GBNvL9g36Jz8y9hpwDq0pzaFFtQLK4ibLU4k1/s1600/IMG_2387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQuwpkSBj57XiDiTscRBzssnTgfsyYDyg3s-ttlVAYFGngRE6LPkyu6LzdIsojj0b0rXKU1-ASni6nxoSbScjMZ1v6zsj8-3bCxuDvEf1GBNvL9g36Jz8y9hpwDq0pzaFFtQLK4ibLU4k1/s320/IMG_2387.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_YeL9QLBGPFecNH4j-PC-uUxGla6sgu_w7szRj4NQu4CigTd5d6K2-dVvGrCUq4xUy7tIvJNYt92JqwRflIvOaC5UKJbOP4OxwxFSVfezVH2NUKgH4RjDFQmSERWNCZbYVG4RhZdJyYZ/s1600/IMG_2560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_YeL9QLBGPFecNH4j-PC-uUxGla6sgu_w7szRj4NQu4CigTd5d6K2-dVvGrCUq4xUy7tIvJNYt92JqwRflIvOaC5UKJbOP4OxwxFSVfezVH2NUKgH4RjDFQmSERWNCZbYVG4RhZdJyYZ/s320/IMG_2560.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Kate being an awesome big sister!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4z-ZB8iQlcA4Ibb5tkcJfry6ON4I4o-xNJmJCucMOG4wIVhEtHOXrgVwNPMXmHDdScJ6ZtESZEJV3JOrcrLAmobXPLLaaBBfO9Qc6riz-LR06mvt5chHKSl6OCHDX88yhbvmw20DICUdv/s1600/IMG_2299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4z-ZB8iQlcA4Ibb5tkcJfry6ON4I4o-xNJmJCucMOG4wIVhEtHOXrgVwNPMXmHDdScJ6ZtESZEJV3JOrcrLAmobXPLLaaBBfO9Qc6riz-LR06mvt5chHKSl6OCHDX88yhbvmw20DICUdv/s320/IMG_2299.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Twins - February 14th, 2012</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWaQLIaurNWpkaE5ayQV1HxZZ6E5_9sPTC3ib7qePJQhzNuYjMdJjQ8uG2p4TuRw_Iua7ZgQHOVySIiipmgxc7FVxzKgXq7uIGli297mh7l9MHKL6ac7fJsd5rXfKy59rYXBWjMajtU7ud/s1600/IMG_2259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWaQLIaurNWpkaE5ayQV1HxZZ6E5_9sPTC3ib7qePJQhzNuYjMdJjQ8uG2p4TuRw_Iua7ZgQHOVySIiipmgxc7FVxzKgXq7uIGli297mh7l9MHKL6ac7fJsd5rXfKy59rYXBWjMajtU7ud/s320/IMG_2259.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bathing Beauty - Nora March 2012</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KQWk8Wl9HbW5MWy_PUt3CJxbFltg0GNqxApYe4GtTC4B6CM2QyVSs8TGtu80PmnSlq35_rYxs0rpbi4RQiEGovPa6GRMAtxcaFRp8f0u8p-AxXC4Rl-MDMvjByW9SgEYF98NKR8Xtpuu/s1600/IMG_2442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KQWk8Wl9HbW5MWy_PUt3CJxbFltg0GNqxApYe4GtTC4B6CM2QyVSs8TGtu80PmnSlq35_rYxs0rpbi4RQiEGovPa6GRMAtxcaFRp8f0u8p-AxXC4Rl-MDMvjByW9SgEYF98NKR8Xtpuu/s320/IMG_2442.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Nolan March 2012</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpAze5jc6ObDsX3EzB2pLKaoqRH93gQa4lUwK6zkmin_5Eg4kMw8Hoj8P-HsOueUK9-9DsjzMFsfeicN-EfzAkhmZGpeaFnqJoXslBjHaj2MdVBnSLbFsMuhEJj90ALP3rQrqGp-misla/s1600/IMG_2144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCpAze5jc6ObDsX3EzB2pLKaoqRH93gQa4lUwK6zkmin_5Eg4kMw8Hoj8P-HsOueUK9-9DsjzMFsfeicN-EfzAkhmZGpeaFnqJoXslBjHaj2MdVBnSLbFsMuhEJj90ALP3rQrqGp-misla/s320/IMG_2144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And because having a twin isn't always what its cracked up to be...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbKD138hwVyJCCKxqtKbnfQZkYb8ZXYtHzoj8LoEFg6fGUc6b296NLoD8ztsZkRIBzYB8MgnMY8lgCwhiUpD6yPN32J8nI9geAgxIqVtUuF9PN_ojDI5xbtBGV9nggifyeP-Z8iN0qdMo/s1600/IMG_2122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbKD138hwVyJCCKxqtKbnfQZkYb8ZXYtHzoj8LoEFg6fGUc6b296NLoD8ztsZkRIBzYB8MgnMY8lgCwhiUpD6yPN32J8nI9geAgxIqVtUuF9PN_ojDI5xbtBGV9nggifyeP-Z8iN0qdMo/s320/IMG_2122.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-9518135775439309232012-03-23T16:55:00.001-04:002012-03-23T16:57:25.291-04:00God, Come Like The Rain.....That is my cry, my prayer, my heart. That God would come, stir me up and move me with such intensity that going back to who I am/was would never be a possibility. <br />
<br />
What if Jesus told you to "sell all you have, give to the poor and come, follow me" would you do it? Could you do it? I'm not so sure I could, which aches me to no end. But I am sure that God is calling Brett and I right now, maybe it's something here, maybe it's something in another country. Maybe it's "down sizing" and giving more to the poor. But the reality is, money is NOT the answer - Jesus is. Love is. <br />
<br />
Right now Brett and I are searching, seeking, looking for ways to serve and ways that we can bring our children with us. The reality is...we have 4 kids. Thats who we are, thats what God has give us and we are a family unit. Will that mean putting our kids in more risky situations for the sake of his kingdom...maybe? But I would rather be in the protection of God's will rather than thinking I'm in God's will and really not be.<br />
<br />
So Lord, you know the plans you have for us. Move us, shake us, allow us to be open to your calling. Your provision over our family has always been and will always continue to be the reason we trust that your plans are better than our own. <br />
<br />
Lord I beg you to continue to break our hearts for what breaks yours....<br />
<br />
LeslieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8755265308898520119.post-62093679869322583732012-02-17T12:45:00.000-05:002012-02-17T12:45:57.663-05:00WOW...it's been a long time....Well the twins are 3 months old now and we are finally on an awesome schedule. I feel like I have SO much to say about what a great experience having twins has been but I'll try and keep it short for now. I'll be back to blogging more now that I actually have a few minutes to myself during set "nap times." <br />
<br />
The babies are doing SO SO well. First off they are HUGE. Nolan is now in 6 month clothing and Nora isn't too far behind. They eat 4 to 5 ounces every 3 hours and go to bed at 7 sleep until 3/4am then go back down after a bottle for another 4/5 hours. I have some awesome little sleepers and I give all the credit of that to my awesome nanny, Marina. She is the freaking baby whisper - I swear. I ADORE her. She will be leaving us in April and I'm very sad but she's on to her next set of twins in California....oh the life of a baby nurse ;).<br />
<br />
Nolan is such a ham. He has the sweetest smile, when he smiles his whole body smilies. My first son is such a joy in my life I can't imagine my life without him. I can tell he is going to be pretty laid back - he's a great baby. Nora is also a wonderful baby. She only cries when she's tried of hungry. She also just started smiling and it melts a momma's heart to see her sweet face light up. She is the spitting image of Ella (minus the red hair) and is so tiny and sweet. I think she is going to be pretty laid back too - like her daddy.<br />
<br />
Speaking of Daddy - my husband is one amazing father. He blows me away. He works so hard all week, tons of nights, tons of emotionally draining work (working for a church) but always comes home with a smile. Always comes home willing and wanting to please his children and me. He is the best father and husband I could ask for - God is good. Brett is starting classes to be come an ordained minister this summer and I couldn't be more proud of him. He is so smart, sweet and kind. He has a humble heart and big talent. I just know that God is working on big things for his life. Maybe we will end up in Haiti one day as missionaries...maybe we will stay right where we are. Whatever it is, I love that my husband has a open heart to follow God's direction. <br />
<br />
I wanted to add the monthly pictures of the twins from birth to 3 months so you can get an idea of how much they have grown. It's pretty amazing if you ask me! =)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjA7nXIaM8hBNRAuFdN9gspQrcfJB5yOK7RtKKAtRdnnI9LJ1N6OIb-DrcDsbb5irfA94TZlYeWQX9XxTkaCTSfqa18r8Pj7h1xHGmtc7fn0XhW6FLP_xJidZKejnbkatVFOA9FSV4rxW1/s1600/IMG_1490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjA7nXIaM8hBNRAuFdN9gspQrcfJB5yOK7RtKKAtRdnnI9LJ1N6OIb-DrcDsbb5irfA94TZlYeWQX9XxTkaCTSfqa18r8Pj7h1xHGmtc7fn0XhW6FLP_xJidZKejnbkatVFOA9FSV4rxW1/s320/IMG_1490.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisUzABy44v9MvlbED5x6LYNo92ssJ21R2ed589x8rtUq1h0yT473E4D7dLCdflp19YkxFW4flJJEJF61193WO0fQ9HIcbf_t-AcjQQcdCJzzbX8Rh0plol9-APAQeb7frXRhwKEp4Ff5SV/s1600/IMG_1595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisUzABy44v9MvlbED5x6LYNo92ssJ21R2ed589x8rtUq1h0yT473E4D7dLCdflp19YkxFW4flJJEJF61193WO0fQ9HIcbf_t-AcjQQcdCJzzbX8Rh0plol9-APAQeb7frXRhwKEp4Ff5SV/s320/IMG_1595.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DvqKyhI8wIJxcneAL7BkCpaSDI_kkIg7Brg5jLwbyVOoyVGfZQUDqtN4qwJcRT59-P_Kw_y9tgZtbbjTibY0Qi7uQBQZzGzMxj7rMinLr4BCKzaWvY16ZQuSmsO1VI1zFlFskuaap1e6/s1600/IMG_1674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DvqKyhI8wIJxcneAL7BkCpaSDI_kkIg7Brg5jLwbyVOoyVGfZQUDqtN4qwJcRT59-P_Kw_y9tgZtbbjTibY0Qi7uQBQZzGzMxj7rMinLr4BCKzaWvY16ZQuSmsO1VI1zFlFskuaap1e6/s320/IMG_1674.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjfNBwo-3Jo6v8bZhdm9APlkD1IJ6Z2-oFwHCKcRL0G-R636Yupl5xlUiRduq1c4E1PM_O1CmccDiMwetnPpGkveg63FX3debKG6N05BsUNtTil9pb39d6w38h0YCW2lHMS3SXjvF2hwX/s1600/IMG_1933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjfNBwo-3Jo6v8bZhdm9APlkD1IJ6Z2-oFwHCKcRL0G-R636Yupl5xlUiRduq1c4E1PM_O1CmccDiMwetnPpGkveg63FX3debKG6N05BsUNtTil9pb39d6w38h0YCW2lHMS3SXjvF2hwX/s320/IMG_1933.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Leslie</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0