Dearest Blog (and readers),
I will be absent for awhile. One of the people who bring the brightest light into my life is teetering on the edge between heading to Heaven and staying here with us a bit longer. I'm not sure when the words will come back to me. When the motivation will return, but I know that I will continue to journal thoughts and activities, just like my Grandma has for years. I have so much to say about this wonderful woman. She has played so many roles in my life.
mother. grandma. great grandma. neighbor. friend. seamstress. laundress. cook. encourager. counselor. teacher.
Please continue to pray for my family. She is the most amazing woman, who none of us want to lose. We know that she is ready to meet God and rejoice with Him for eternity, and we are trying not to be selfish, but we aren't ready to lose her.
Thank you to everyone for the prayers and kind words. I will try to do my best to keep you all updated.
Ashley
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
3rd letters to S and B
B,
We sure loved the picture that Miss G. sent us a few weeks ago. You are so very handsome! We look at your smile every day and it makes our hearts smile too!
We hope that you are working hard in school and learning a lot. Do you like school? Are you learning to count numbers?
Do you like to play with blocks? We have a lot of blocks (called Legos) at our house. One time Hunter built a tower all the way to the ceiling! I am sending you a picture of it.
Hunter (your 5 year old brother) colored you and S a picture of a race car. He likes to color and use lots of different colors.
Graysen (your 2 year old sister) made you and S a picture with stickers and colors. She is still learning how to color. I bet you can help teach her!
We love you very, very much and can’t wait for you to join our family!
S,
We love the picture that Miss G. sent us a few weeks ago! You are so handsome! I can’t believe you lost a tooth! How did it fall out? I can’t wait to hear the story when we are together. Do you have any more that are loose?
We hope that you are working hard in school and learning a lot. Do you like school? Are you learning to count numbers?
Do you like to play with rocks and marbles? Both of your new Grandma and Grandpa’s houses have lots of rocks in their driveways, I’m sure you and your brothers will find all kinds of games to play with them!
Hunter (your 5 year old brother) colored you and B a picture of a race car. He likes to color and use lots of different colors.
Graysen (your 2 year old sister) made you and B a picture with stickers and colors. She is still learning how to color. I bet you can help teach her!
We love you very, very much, and can’t wait for you to join our family!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Pray - UPDATED AGAIN!!
Please pray.
Surgery is scheduled for 8:30 am Wednesday morning. If everyone who can, could be on their knees for my Grandma, we would really appreciate it.
Please pray for the surgeons, that they would allow God to guide their hands.
For my Grandma, that she would be at peace and feel the hands on Jesus as she goes into surgery.
For our family, that we would feel peace and comfort, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Love to all,
Ash
Surgery is scheduled for 8:30 am Wednesday morning. If everyone who can, could be on their knees for my Grandma, we would really appreciate it.
Please pray for the surgeons, that they would allow God to guide their hands.
For my Grandma, that she would be at peace and feel the hands on Jesus as she goes into surgery.
For our family, that we would feel peace and comfort, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Love to all,
Ash
Growing Grateful Kids
I can't wait to hear Susie Larson speak at the Hearts At Home Conference I'll be attending on the 12th and 13th! I sure hope I can learn something about Growing Grateful Kids!!!! Who doesn't need help in that department?!
Today I'd like to welcome author and speaker Susie Larson. Susie's new book Growing Grateful Kids has just released and I've invited her to share a little bit about this great resource.
Today I'd like to welcome author and speaker Susie Larson. Susie's new book Growing Grateful Kids has just released and I've invited her to share a little bit about this great resource.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.
My husband and I have been married 25 years and have three grown sons (all in their early twenties). Our oldest son Jake works on the business side of the Christian music industry. Our middle son Luke is married to his beautiful wife Kristen; he works full time at a bank and part time as a worship pastor. Our youngest son Jordan is studying to become a surgical nurse. My husband Kevin is a commercial construction manager by day and manages my ministry by night (and weekends). Bless his heart. I am an author, speaker, and an on-call radio host for Christian talk radio. Together, Kevin and I serve as advocates for justice on behalf of modern day slaves and human trafficking victims.
Tell us about your new book, Growing Grateful Kids: Teaching Them to Appreciate an Extraordinary God in Ordinary Places.
Even when economic times are tight, our children enjoy an abundance of material possessions. Yet, amidst all this wealth, discontentment and competition seem to be on the rise. Instead of teaching children virtues such as gratefulness and patience, many parents are bending over backwards to get their children the latest and greatest item - or feeling guilty when they can't. In spite of the currents of materialism and entitlement that flow so strong, it is possible to raise children who are simply grateful. Though teaching perspective and gratitude to our children is critical, it is not difficult.
Why did you want to write this book?
To be completely honest, I never wanted to write a book on parenting. I wanted to protect my kids’ privacy and give them time and space to become the men God wants them to be. But in the last few years, I have been especially burdened with the level of selfishness, entitlement and disrespect I see among children today. Furthermore, moms seem more stressed than ever. When I asked my sons their thoughts on writing this book, without pausing they all said, “Do it, mom; that book needs to be written!” I think I wrote a book that not only equips young moms to raise humble, grateful world-changers, but also one that nourishes the soul of the reader and encourages her personally.
Throughout the book you remind the reader that we cannot impart what we do not possess. Can you explain?
If we never deal with our own fears, insecurities, and hang ups, but we try to teach our children to believe in their divine value, over time, our words will not ring true to them. First God wants to do His work in us before He does it through us. They say that lessons are more often caught than taught. If we parent from a place of conviction and real freedom, our children will be affected by what we teach them.
One of your chapters is titled, “Take Time to Play.” How does taking time to play teach our kids to be grateful?
To me, taking time to play says a lot about the level of faith we possess.
If our children hear us confess that we love and serve a BIG God and yet they see us striving and straining through life, they will come to believe that more is on our shoulders than on God’s. If we can trust God enough to step away from our busy-important lives, to make a fort in the basement, or play a game with our children – even in the most desperate of economic situations – we will give our children a sense of much needed security and that all is well in their world.
What do you want readers to take away from this book?
To answer this question (I hope you don’t mind), I would like to share an endorsement from one of my sample readers. She expressed my deepest desire for my reader:
“Growing Grateful Kids is such a great source of conviction, encouragement, and inspiration to spur me on to finishing this parenting race well and not sputter out along the way. This book compels me to submit my own character to the refining of the Holy Spirit that I may be equipped to impart those lessons onto my children. Thank you, Susie, for taking the time, for submitting in obedience, and writing this down for a generation in desperate need of this kind of parenting book!” –Gail Miller
This is a Hearts at Home book. What is Hearts at Home?
Hearts at Home is an organization that encourages, educates, and equips women in the profession of motherhood. Hearts at Home encourages moms through annual conferences, our extensive website (www.hearts-at-home.org), a free bi-weekly electronic newsletter, a radio program, and an entire line of books designed to meet the needs of moms all over the world!
Any closing thoughts?
I am very excited about the message in this book. It is my prayer that every one who reads it will be nourished, encouraged, and equipped to parent from a place of fullness, conviction, and confidence. Raising grateful, confident kids will be one of the most heroic, important things you do in your lifetime. God’s blessings to you!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Living With Less so your Family has More
Today and tomorrow I am going to posting interviews with two of the speakers that will be at the Hearts At Home Conference that I'll be attending on the 12th and 13th of this month! They sound like two great books, and I can't wait to read my copies and report back to you on more info I get from them at the conference!
Today I'd like to welcome Jill and Mark Savage. Jill and Mark's newest book Living with Less so your Family has More just released and I've invited them to share a little bit about this great resource!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.
We have been married for 27 years…17 of them happily. After finding ourselves in a marriage counselor’s office around year 8 or so, we realized that we really didn’t know how to be married. We worked hard to turn things around and now we like to share that hope with other couples.
We have five children ranging from 13 to 25. Our oldest three are married. Anne (25) and her husband, Matt, live in Zion, IL, and are expecting our first grandchild in April. (We are very excited!) Evan (22) and his wife, Julie, have been married a year and a half and they live just a few miles from us. Erica (19) married her husband Kendall last September. They live in Augusta, GA, and wherever else the Army takes them.
We have two teenagers still at home. Kolya just turned 16. He’s learning to drive and we’ve nearly worn a hole in the carpet on the floor in the passenger seat trying to find that non-existent brake pedal. Kolya is the newest member of the Savage family. We adopted him at the age of nine from Russia.
Austin is 13 and in the 8th grade. He wants us to make sure and tell the world that this “living with less” life is a real bummer because he’s the ONLY kid in 8th grade who doesn’t have a cell phone.
Tell us about your newest book Living With Less So Your Family Has More?
The world screams the message that bigger is always better, but we have found that is not often true. When it comes to raising a family, less materially can actually result in more relationally. Children don’t need the best houses, the best lessons, the best cars, or the best clothes. What they really need is the best home life and the best family relationships we can give them.
Why did you want to write this book?
We didn’t start out with the “less is more” mindset. We started as a double income family wanting to have the “best” of everything. Then Mark decided to pursue ministry. We went from the “high life” to the “frugal life” very quickly as we moved to another state for him to go to Bible College full-time.
That experience introduced us to the concept that less is more. We definitely had less money, but we had more time. We had less stress and more peace. We had less activities and more fun.
Since that experience, we’ve continued to live primarily on one income for the past twenty years. We’ve had to battle cultural peer pressure and make different decisions for our family than many other families in our neighborhood have made. But we’ve never felt that we were materially depriving ourselves or our kids…instead we’ve focused on what we’ve actually been able to provide for them emotionally and relationally.
What do you hope your readers will gain from this book?
We hope the reader is encouraged to evaluate how they are living their life, spending their money, and thinking about family matters. Our goal is to introduce families to the “less is more” concept and then equip them with the attitudes and actions to actually make that happen.
For families that are already committed to less is more, we hope to bolster their resolve and help them stay focused on the long-term goal of providing relationally for their kids.
In today’s economy, there are many families being forced to live with less. We want to help them see the opportunity they have with this unexpected downsizing they’ve been forced to do.
And for those who have just been a little discontent with their life and saying things like, “I’m tired of the rat race of life,” or “Is there more to life than drive-thru meals for dinner?” we hope to help them see other choices they have and how they can lead their family in a different direction.
What unique elements will the reader find in Living With Less So Your Family Has More?
For couples who want to read the book together, we’ve included discussion questions at the end of every chapter. This helps move the readers to discussion and eventually actions. Even a single parent can use the discussion questions for personal evaluation.
Readers will find this book a practical guide to changing your attitude and your actions to live a successful “less is more” life. They’ll find our writing style to be a warm, casual, honest discussion where we not only share our victories but our mistakes along the way. We are an average couple living successfully on an average income who want to help others to see the possibilities before them.
This is a Hearts at Home book. What is Hearts at Home?
Hearts at Home is an organization that encourages, educates, and equips women in the profession of motherhood. Hearts at Home encourages moms through annual conferences, our extensive website (www.hearts-at-home.org), a free electronic newsletter, a radio program, and an entire line of books designed to meet the needs of moms all over the world!
Any closing thoughts?
It’s healthy for parents to occasionally pause and evaluate their vision for their family and the choices they are making. We hope this resource will help them do that together and that it will lead them to live a life of little regret.
Friday, February 26, 2010
God knows our breaking points
I have been shown, through this adoption process, that God truly knows my heart. He knows what I need, and when I need it. Although there have been times in my life when I think I've been stretched beyond what I should have been, I now know that when we are faithful, God is faithful right back!
Two days before we got our referral call, I wrote this post. I had reached my limit. I couldn't take it anymore. I was beginning to lack in my duties as a wife and mother. My heart knew that my children were out there, and I needed to see their faces. God knew. He heard my call and answered in my deepest time of need.
Wednesday I had a major anxiety attack. I had not had an update of any kind on the boys in 5 weeks...and the information that I had gotten then was already 4 weeks old. Crazy thoughts (from the Devil) started to run through my head. What if they weren't even real? What if I had been loving and preparing for two boys that weren't even there? What if they were sad and scared and hiding out in their room everyday? My Mommy's heart couldn't take it anymore. Thursday I took a long nap, and woke up to an email with a new picture and a short email from the social worker who is actually in Ethiopia with S & B!!! This picture is PERFECT! They are both smiling so big and the woman tells me that she told them they have a family! Thank you God! I couldn't stand them wondering if anyone wanted them, if they would ever belong to a family again day after day, while we were here, loving them, preparing for them. It was too much to take, and again, God knew. And He provided.
Two days before we got our referral call, I wrote this post. I had reached my limit. I couldn't take it anymore. I was beginning to lack in my duties as a wife and mother. My heart knew that my children were out there, and I needed to see their faces. God knew. He heard my call and answered in my deepest time of need.
Wednesday I had a major anxiety attack. I had not had an update of any kind on the boys in 5 weeks...and the information that I had gotten then was already 4 weeks old. Crazy thoughts (from the Devil) started to run through my head. What if they weren't even real? What if I had been loving and preparing for two boys that weren't even there? What if they were sad and scared and hiding out in their room everyday? My Mommy's heart couldn't take it anymore. Thursday I took a long nap, and woke up to an email with a new picture and a short email from the social worker who is actually in Ethiopia with S & B!!! This picture is PERFECT! They are both smiling so big and the woman tells me that she told them they have a family! Thank you God! I couldn't stand them wondering if anyone wanted them, if they would ever belong to a family again day after day, while we were here, loving them, preparing for them. It was too much to take, and again, God knew. And He provided.
He is faithful. He is loving. He is kind. He is powerful.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
What a Woman!
We had my Grandma's 83rd birthday party this past weekend! I can not say enough about what a wonderful woman my Grandma is. She is my second mother. She lived with me from 8th grade until I was 19. I look to her for strength, advice, and a sneak peek at God.
Grandma and 5 of her 6 children
Diana, Jim, Kim, Georgia, and Mike
Grandma,
God has blessed me by giving us to you. I can't imagine being in any other family. You have helped to raise me, show me the way to go by example, not just by words, and loved me no matter what. You encourage me to continue on with my walk with God, and to be the best wife, and mother, (and some day mother in law, grandma, and great grandma) that I can be!
I love you with all of my heart,
Ashley
Me and my Beautiful 83 year old Grandma!
GG and some of her great grandkids
Jake, Ally, Graysen, Mya, Jonas, Hunter, and JJ
Grandma and some of her grandkids
Bart, Erin, Jayna, Dawn, Brittany, Miranda, Nick, Matt, Kara, Chad, Me, and Sara
GG and some of her great grandkids
Jake, Ally, Graysen, Mya, Jonas, Hunter, and JJ
Grandma and some of her grandkidsBart, Erin, Jayna, Dawn, Brittany, Miranda, Nick, Matt, Kara, Chad, Me, and Sara
Grandma and 5 of her 6 children
Diana, Jim, Kim, Georgia, and Mike
Grandma,
God has blessed me by giving us to you. I can't imagine being in any other family. You have helped to raise me, show me the way to go by example, not just by words, and loved me no matter what. You encourage me to continue on with my walk with God, and to be the best wife, and mother, (and some day mother in law, grandma, and great grandma) that I can be!
I love you with all of my heart,
Ashley
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Miss Mindy's Giveaway!
Our sweet babysitter, Miss Mindy is having her second giveaway on her blog! There are so many options of gift cards to be given away! I hope I win and I will choose the Red Lobster one!
Go check it out, not only for the giveaway, but just because it's an adorable blog with all kinds of great topics!
Go check it out, not only for the giveaway, but just because it's an adorable blog with all kinds of great topics!
A new phase of our lives
The Redburn family is about to embark on a new era.
I must preface this story with the statement that I think I'm pretty good about change. Not last minute change (that, I am very bad at), but change that I can prepare for; change that I know is coming. I have always handled moves, changes in schools, marriage, pregnancy, new babies very well. (Or so I think...if I'm wrong, please don't tell me.)
One summer day in July 2004 my dear sweet husband put together a baby crib. We bought it used, at a garage sale, and I was in love with it. I thought it was beautiful, and of course, a highly prized possession. I sat back on the couch, very pregnant and watched Lincoln and Vimal debate, laugh, and get frustrated again over putting together this crib. Once it was assembled it was perfect. Only one thing was wrong - it didn't fit through the bedroom door way! So, the next day, while Lincoln was at work my mother, a good friend of hers, and I took it apart and reassembled it in the baby's bedroom.
Side note...this is also the day my colostrum arrived. I know, TMI, but this is MY journal, and I want to remember the horrified feeling and look of my face when I walked into the room and cried to my mom wondering why in the HECK my shirt was all wet!!!
That beautiful crib has been up in our home since that day in July 2004. I'm not sure that Hunter slept a single night in that crib in our house on W. James where it was assembled. We purchased our first home on Seymour in October of 2004 and moved the crib there, fully assembled. He rarely slept in it in that home either...actually, he rarely slept in it at all, but the fact remained that it was there, standing proud in his room.
I kept the crib up when I found out we were expecting our daughter Claire. We moved a toddler bed into Hunter's room as well and trained him (sort of) to sleep in it. We didn't want him to feel like the new baby was coming in and stealing away his bed, so we talked often about how his new baby would sleep in the crib while he slept in the toddler bed just a few feet away. He liked this idea and began referring to the crib as "the baby's bed". I pictured our two precious children asleep at night in the same room, sleeping like angels. I never got to sneak in late at night and see that picture. Our daughter passed away about an hour after she was born and never got to come home and sleep in the crib that I love so much.
We kept the crib up after Claire's death because I couldn't bear to tear it down knowing that we weren't bringing a baby home after all. It would've been far too harsh of an action for me to take. I wasn't ready. We sold our house on Seymour and moved to our new house on Lois in October 2006. We all needed a change of scenery. We couldn't bear to look at the living room table that had been filled with sympathy flowers or walk into Hunter's room another time.
We again, moved the crib fully assembled, to our new home. It went straight into the "spare" bedroom, the room we knew would some day, in God's timing, be the nursery. We waited 2 years to lay a baby in that crib, but it stood, waiting the entire time.
Oh how Graysen loved that crib. She wouldn't sleep anywhere else from the time we brought her home. (and as much as I wanted to see my precious baby girl sleeping in the crib, I wanted her more to sleep next to me...and she wouldn't!) Eventually we decided that a playroom was necessary and we moved the crib across the hall to Hunter's room. He had a twin bed, and she had the crib. They were precious together, I could finally sneak in and peak of them late at night when I couldn't sleep. They loved it, I loved it. It was the perfect set up.
When we started the adoption process in March 09 we bought a set of bunk beds. We slowly transitioned Graysen to sleep with Hunter in the bottom bunk...of course leaving the crib up across the room for the newest baby addition to the Redburn family. Again, I imagined sneaking in and seeing Big Brother on top, Graysen on bottom, and Baby Redburn snug in the crib that has held his older siblings.
Then we got the news that two big brothers would be joining the family. Glorious, perfect news. News sent by God...but it meant one thing.
The crib was no longer needed.
We were given another set of bunk beds for the newest boys. They couldn't sit in the living room forever, so we set about the task of getting them set up in the bedroom. For some reason I never imagined the emotions that would swell inside of me knowing that the crib would come down. And that we would sell it. I took one last picture of Graysen in her bed...
I must preface this story with the statement that I think I'm pretty good about change. Not last minute change (that, I am very bad at), but change that I can prepare for; change that I know is coming. I have always handled moves, changes in schools, marriage, pregnancy, new babies very well. (Or so I think...if I'm wrong, please don't tell me.)
One summer day in July 2004 my dear sweet husband put together a baby crib. We bought it used, at a garage sale, and I was in love with it. I thought it was beautiful, and of course, a highly prized possession. I sat back on the couch, very pregnant and watched Lincoln and Vimal debate, laugh, and get frustrated again over putting together this crib. Once it was assembled it was perfect. Only one thing was wrong - it didn't fit through the bedroom door way! So, the next day, while Lincoln was at work my mother, a good friend of hers, and I took it apart and reassembled it in the baby's bedroom.
Side note...this is also the day my colostrum arrived. I know, TMI, but this is MY journal, and I want to remember the horrified feeling and look of my face when I walked into the room and cried to my mom wondering why in the HECK my shirt was all wet!!!
That beautiful crib has been up in our home since that day in July 2004. I'm not sure that Hunter slept a single night in that crib in our house on W. James where it was assembled. We purchased our first home on Seymour in October of 2004 and moved the crib there, fully assembled. He rarely slept in it in that home either...actually, he rarely slept in it at all, but the fact remained that it was there, standing proud in his room.
I kept the crib up when I found out we were expecting our daughter Claire. We moved a toddler bed into Hunter's room as well and trained him (sort of) to sleep in it. We didn't want him to feel like the new baby was coming in and stealing away his bed, so we talked often about how his new baby would sleep in the crib while he slept in the toddler bed just a few feet away. He liked this idea and began referring to the crib as "the baby's bed". I pictured our two precious children asleep at night in the same room, sleeping like angels. I never got to sneak in late at night and see that picture. Our daughter passed away about an hour after she was born and never got to come home and sleep in the crib that I love so much.
We kept the crib up after Claire's death because I couldn't bear to tear it down knowing that we weren't bringing a baby home after all. It would've been far too harsh of an action for me to take. I wasn't ready. We sold our house on Seymour and moved to our new house on Lois in October 2006. We all needed a change of scenery. We couldn't bear to look at the living room table that had been filled with sympathy flowers or walk into Hunter's room another time.
We again, moved the crib fully assembled, to our new home. It went straight into the "spare" bedroom, the room we knew would some day, in God's timing, be the nursery. We waited 2 years to lay a baby in that crib, but it stood, waiting the entire time.
Oh how Graysen loved that crib. She wouldn't sleep anywhere else from the time we brought her home. (and as much as I wanted to see my precious baby girl sleeping in the crib, I wanted her more to sleep next to me...and she wouldn't!) Eventually we decided that a playroom was necessary and we moved the crib across the hall to Hunter's room. He had a twin bed, and she had the crib. They were precious together, I could finally sneak in and peak of them late at night when I couldn't sleep. They loved it, I loved it. It was the perfect set up.
When we started the adoption process in March 09 we bought a set of bunk beds. We slowly transitioned Graysen to sleep with Hunter in the bottom bunk...of course leaving the crib up across the room for the newest baby addition to the Redburn family. Again, I imagined sneaking in and seeing Big Brother on top, Graysen on bottom, and Baby Redburn snug in the crib that has held his older siblings.
Then we got the news that two big brothers would be joining the family. Glorious, perfect news. News sent by God...but it meant one thing.
The crib was no longer needed.
We were given another set of bunk beds for the newest boys. They couldn't sit in the living room forever, so we set about the task of getting them set up in the bedroom. For some reason I never imagined the emotions that would swell inside of me knowing that the crib would come down. And that we would sell it. I took one last picture of Graysen in her bed...
(of course she needed to lay down and pretend to sleep...)
Then the tears started to flow. All of the memories came flooding back and I couldn't stop myself. As Lincoln started to disassemble the crib I shared all of my memories, dreams, and wishes that involved that crib. I'm usually not that attached to material items (except my blankie, which is a whole other post). I really surprised myself.
But, as I sit here and write this I realized how the crib was really a symbol of my love for my children and family. As a little girl I always imagined myself tucking my children into their cribs. I could raise and lower the side in my sleep. I have spent countless hours standing next to that crib rail rocking each of my babies. Praying with them, singing to them. I have stood next to the crib with my arm over the rail, my hand on their stomachs, coaxing them to sleep, comforting them, making sure they were still breathing.
The bunk beds are now up. In fact, Hunter and Graysen have taken to sleeping in them rather then the first set because they wanted to make sure they were good enough for their brothers.
It's a new era. Soon I will be able to sneak in late at night and check on all four of my precious babies, sleeping soundly in their bunk beds. And they will be more beautiful than the crib.
But, as I sit here and write this I realized how the crib was really a symbol of my love for my children and family. As a little girl I always imagined myself tucking my children into their cribs. I could raise and lower the side in my sleep. I have spent countless hours standing next to that crib rail rocking each of my babies. Praying with them, singing to them. I have stood next to the crib with my arm over the rail, my hand on their stomachs, coaxing them to sleep, comforting them, making sure they were still breathing.
The bunk beds are now up. In fact, Hunter and Graysen have taken to sleeping in them rather then the first set because they wanted to make sure they were good enough for their brothers.
It's a new era. Soon I will be able to sneak in late at night and check on all four of my precious babies, sleeping soundly in their bunk beds. And they will be more beautiful than the crib.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
A few ramblings by Ashley
My life is once again at a semi stand still. I feel like this is the story of my life...it's either feast or famine, flood or drought. I am either swamped or I'm twirling my thumbs. We are still on a hunt for a good used (and I mean USED) mini-van, and 2 bicycles for the boys...anyone know of some for me?! This is a good thing though because it means that we now have time for things like trips to the Magic House with friends!
We are still waiting on a court date for the boys...we're waiting, and waiting, and waiting. Although they tell me it should be by mid-March I'm beginning to question that, as all of the court dates that were scheduled for this week are being rescheduled for later due to a government office randomly taking a week off.
Hunter is really behaving lately! We went through some rough patches with behavior, but it's looking up! We've started using "boundaries" rather than "rules". We are doing a parenting study in our small group and they have been talking about "boundaries"...it's a great concept really. A boundary is a 'line' that you can cross over...and if you can cross over it, you must be able to come back to the first side right?! When you break a rule it's just over...it's broken, there's no going back. I like the concept that Hunter can decide to turn around and make a better choice after making a poor first one. I also think a boundary is a rather personal thing, where a rule is imposed on you by someone else. I would like to think that this concept is going to help him start setting some personal guidelines for his life. I hope it helps him test out and decide where he wants his boundaries to be.
Graysen on the other hand...lol. She is SO bossy! Gray, when you have a daughter who tries to boss you around at age 2 you'll get no sypathy from me...only a slight grin and a "good luck babe!" She is going to have to hold her own with three older brothers, but we must draw a line somewhere! It doesn't matter who it is, she thinks she has the right to tell them what to do, when to do it, and how to do it! Oh honey, you have sooo much to learn!
Lincoln and I will be married 6 years this Sunday. It's odd for me to believe that we've been married twice as long as we dated. We've been together for 9 years in March...for those of you who know me, can you believe it?! 9 years?! Wow. We're old. God has blessed me with a husband who is more than faithful to Him, and me...I'm blessed. I've been slacking big time on my reasons why I love him, I just had so many "scheduled" posts that I forgot to go back and add them at the bottom...I'm going to make a list here in the next few days and catch up though! There are plenty of them, I'm not lacking for reasons, that's for sure.
Miracles happen every day. Did you know that? Sometimes they are from people who are around us every day...but God works miracles through people. We've recently had a major one in our lives. God is MIGHTY AND GOOD!
We love sleeping with an electric blanket. Although I'm FAR too ready for Spring to be here, I do have to admit I'm a little sad about the day that I take my blanket off my bed and pack it away until next fall. It's a really old, ugly pink electric blanket, that actually only works about half the time, but man, it sure feels good to climb into a warm bed every night!
Did I mention how ready I am for Spring to come? We had awesome weather on Saturday and my kids played outside all day. What a blessing! I can not wait to sit on my back porch, or watch from my kitchen window while all four of our kids run and play in the back yard together this spring and summer. I can't wait to take walks around the neighborhood and stop at the Elementary playground for them to play half way through our walk. I can't wait to spend entire mornings or afternoons at Lion's Club Park. I get some major quality reading time in while the kids burn some major energy...it's great for all of us!
We are still waiting on a court date for the boys...we're waiting, and waiting, and waiting. Although they tell me it should be by mid-March I'm beginning to question that, as all of the court dates that were scheduled for this week are being rescheduled for later due to a government office randomly taking a week off.
Hunter is really behaving lately! We went through some rough patches with behavior, but it's looking up! We've started using "boundaries" rather than "rules". We are doing a parenting study in our small group and they have been talking about "boundaries"...it's a great concept really. A boundary is a 'line' that you can cross over...and if you can cross over it, you must be able to come back to the first side right?! When you break a rule it's just over...it's broken, there's no going back. I like the concept that Hunter can decide to turn around and make a better choice after making a poor first one. I also think a boundary is a rather personal thing, where a rule is imposed on you by someone else. I would like to think that this concept is going to help him start setting some personal guidelines for his life. I hope it helps him test out and decide where he wants his boundaries to be.
Graysen on the other hand...lol. She is SO bossy! Gray, when you have a daughter who tries to boss you around at age 2 you'll get no sypathy from me...only a slight grin and a "good luck babe!" She is going to have to hold her own with three older brothers, but we must draw a line somewhere! It doesn't matter who it is, she thinks she has the right to tell them what to do, when to do it, and how to do it! Oh honey, you have sooo much to learn!
Lincoln and I will be married 6 years this Sunday. It's odd for me to believe that we've been married twice as long as we dated. We've been together for 9 years in March...for those of you who know me, can you believe it?! 9 years?! Wow. We're old. God has blessed me with a husband who is more than faithful to Him, and me...I'm blessed. I've been slacking big time on my reasons why I love him, I just had so many "scheduled" posts that I forgot to go back and add them at the bottom...I'm going to make a list here in the next few days and catch up though! There are plenty of them, I'm not lacking for reasons, that's for sure.
Miracles happen every day. Did you know that? Sometimes they are from people who are around us every day...but God works miracles through people. We've recently had a major one in our lives. God is MIGHTY AND GOOD!
We love sleeping with an electric blanket. Although I'm FAR too ready for Spring to be here, I do have to admit I'm a little sad about the day that I take my blanket off my bed and pack it away until next fall. It's a really old, ugly pink electric blanket, that actually only works about half the time, but man, it sure feels good to climb into a warm bed every night!
Did I mention how ready I am for Spring to come? We had awesome weather on Saturday and my kids played outside all day. What a blessing! I can not wait to sit on my back porch, or watch from my kitchen window while all four of our kids run and play in the back yard together this spring and summer. I can't wait to take walks around the neighborhood and stop at the Elementary playground for them to play half way through our walk. I can't wait to spend entire mornings or afternoons at Lion's Club Park. I get some major quality reading time in while the kids burn some major energy...it's great for all of us!
Monday, February 22, 2010
This is great, although I can't take credit!
I found this post this morning...and it is really awesome! I love it when I read something and find myself shaking my head and saying "amen" out loud! :0)
"Recently we were told by people whom we love and respect why they oppose our plans to adopt. One of the reasons given was that we would not be able to pay for your college education.
It's true.
You all have college funds - college funds which recently took a terrible hit - but "they" say that by the time you're 18, college will cost anywhere between $200,000 to half a million dollars each. You might as well know now, we won't be covering that. I'm telling you now, babies.
The people said that the day would come when you would look at us with resentment because you had to apply for school loans while many of your friends got a free ride from their parents.
Maybe you will. Maybe you'll resent us. I really hope not. But maybe I should tell y'all now why your dad and I have decided to do what we are doing.
I know you're going to think I am going off topic (I do that a lot) but several years I saw a story on a TV show about how the latest trend was for parents to give their daughters boob jobs for high school graduation (I don't know what they gave their sons.) When interviewing one of the moms, she said, "I just want my daughter to be happy." And as I tossed a throw pillow at the television, this really huge thought occurred to me: I don't want my children to be happy.
My goal as your mom is not your happiness, sugars. In fact, I spend at least half my day making you unhappy. If I had a nickle for every tear that falls in this home on a daily basis, we wouldn't need to worry about college tuition at all.
Happiness is fleeting, sweet babies. That means it doesn't last. It's a quick feeling that comes from a funny movie or a heart shaped lollipop or a really good birthday present. It's great. I love to be happy. But happiness is a reaction that is based on our surroundings. And our surroundings are so very rarely under our control. Even when - especially when - we think they are. So no, I absolutely don't want you to spend your life chasing something that has so little to do with your own abilities. You'll just be constantly frustrated.
There are two things I desire for you, precious loves. There are two things that I spend most of my time as a mother trying cultivate in you. Happiness ain't one of them. (This means, sorry, no boob jobs for you.)
The first is, I want you to be content. Being content is so much different from being happy. Being content is not based on your surroundings. Being content comes from within. Contentment is a spirit of gratitude. It's the choice you make to either be thankful for the things you do have, or to whine about the things you don't have.
As you know, because I've told you lots of times, Paul talked about being content. Paul said that he had "learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." And Paul was in some rotten situations, kiddos, really rotten.
How could Paul be content whether he was in prison or if his life was literally a shipwreck? Because Paul was constantly seeking to be in the will of God instead of his own, was constantly sacrificing his own comfort for the sake of the gospel, and was constantly being confirmed, strengthened, and blessed by God because of his obedience. He was given a supernatural power - that means something kind of like magic, God magic - to do things that most other humans could not do. And guess what? The bible tells us (in Ephesians 1) that God will give you the exact same power! If you want it!
Which leads me to my second desire for y'all.
I don't want you to be happy. I want you to be holy. That means, I want you to seek that God-power to make you content. I want you to want the Kingdom of God more than your own kingdom. And that's hard, babies, that is so hard. And that usually means passing up a lot of what the world considers happiness. But it means that you will achieve blessings directly from God that most of the world never dreams of because they are too occupied with the achieving the perfect birthday present!
This means you may be poor, 'in want' as Paul said, and that's okay. It will never, ever be okay with the world for you to be poor. So you'll be up against the world. But not your dad and me, loves, because it was never our goal for you to be wealthy - at least not in the way that the world considers wealthy.
Darlings, we love you so much. You will never even grasp how much we love you until you have children of your own, and then you'll get it, and then you'll apologize for the ways you treated us ;) But our goal is not to please you. Our goal is to please our Heavenly Father. And nowhere in the bible does the Lord command that we save our money to send our kids to college.
But the Lord does command us to care for the orphan around fifty times. He does tell us to care for the poor around 300 times. He does tell us that when we care for the neediest, we are caring for Jesus Himself. And in chapter six of the book of Matthew, He tells us to seek His kingdom first, and let Him worry about the rest, like college tuition. Because it's all His anyway.
They said that one day y'all would resent us for using 'your' college money to go and get your sister out of an orphanage in Ethiopia and bring her home to you.
But I know my babies. Even at your tender ages, I know your hearts, and I have already seen you weep for the least of these. I know the prayers I offer up to God that He and not the world would shape the desires of your hearts. I am trusting Him to answer those prayers.
So, sugarbears - I just don't believe those people.
Love,
Mommy"
"Recently we were told by people whom we love and respect why they oppose our plans to adopt. One of the reasons given was that we would not be able to pay for your college education.
It's true.
You all have college funds - college funds which recently took a terrible hit - but "they" say that by the time you're 18, college will cost anywhere between $200,000 to half a million dollars each. You might as well know now, we won't be covering that. I'm telling you now, babies.
The people said that the day would come when you would look at us with resentment because you had to apply for school loans while many of your friends got a free ride from their parents.
Maybe you will. Maybe you'll resent us. I really hope not. But maybe I should tell y'all now why your dad and I have decided to do what we are doing.
I know you're going to think I am going off topic (I do that a lot) but several years I saw a story on a TV show about how the latest trend was for parents to give their daughters boob jobs for high school graduation (I don't know what they gave their sons.) When interviewing one of the moms, she said, "I just want my daughter to be happy." And as I tossed a throw pillow at the television, this really huge thought occurred to me: I don't want my children to be happy.
My goal as your mom is not your happiness, sugars. In fact, I spend at least half my day making you unhappy. If I had a nickle for every tear that falls in this home on a daily basis, we wouldn't need to worry about college tuition at all.
Happiness is fleeting, sweet babies. That means it doesn't last. It's a quick feeling that comes from a funny movie or a heart shaped lollipop or a really good birthday present. It's great. I love to be happy. But happiness is a reaction that is based on our surroundings. And our surroundings are so very rarely under our control. Even when - especially when - we think they are. So no, I absolutely don't want you to spend your life chasing something that has so little to do with your own abilities. You'll just be constantly frustrated.
There are two things I desire for you, precious loves. There are two things that I spend most of my time as a mother trying cultivate in you. Happiness ain't one of them. (This means, sorry, no boob jobs for you.)
The first is, I want you to be content. Being content is so much different from being happy. Being content is not based on your surroundings. Being content comes from within. Contentment is a spirit of gratitude. It's the choice you make to either be thankful for the things you do have, or to whine about the things you don't have.
As you know, because I've told you lots of times, Paul talked about being content. Paul said that he had "learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." And Paul was in some rotten situations, kiddos, really rotten.
How could Paul be content whether he was in prison or if his life was literally a shipwreck? Because Paul was constantly seeking to be in the will of God instead of his own, was constantly sacrificing his own comfort for the sake of the gospel, and was constantly being confirmed, strengthened, and blessed by God because of his obedience. He was given a supernatural power - that means something kind of like magic, God magic - to do things that most other humans could not do. And guess what? The bible tells us (in Ephesians 1) that God will give you the exact same power! If you want it!
Which leads me to my second desire for y'all.
I don't want you to be happy. I want you to be holy. That means, I want you to seek that God-power to make you content. I want you to want the Kingdom of God more than your own kingdom. And that's hard, babies, that is so hard. And that usually means passing up a lot of what the world considers happiness. But it means that you will achieve blessings directly from God that most of the world never dreams of because they are too occupied with the achieving the perfect birthday present!
This means you may be poor, 'in want' as Paul said, and that's okay. It will never, ever be okay with the world for you to be poor. So you'll be up against the world. But not your dad and me, loves, because it was never our goal for you to be wealthy - at least not in the way that the world considers wealthy.
Darlings, we love you so much. You will never even grasp how much we love you until you have children of your own, and then you'll get it, and then you'll apologize for the ways you treated us ;) But our goal is not to please you. Our goal is to please our Heavenly Father. And nowhere in the bible does the Lord command that we save our money to send our kids to college.
But the Lord does command us to care for the orphan around fifty times. He does tell us to care for the poor around 300 times. He does tell us that when we care for the neediest, we are caring for Jesus Himself. And in chapter six of the book of Matthew, He tells us to seek His kingdom first, and let Him worry about the rest, like college tuition. Because it's all His anyway.
They said that one day y'all would resent us for using 'your' college money to go and get your sister out of an orphanage in Ethiopia and bring her home to you.
But I know my babies. Even at your tender ages, I know your hearts, and I have already seen you weep for the least of these. I know the prayers I offer up to God that He and not the world would shape the desires of your hearts. I am trusting Him to answer those prayers.
So, sugarbears - I just don't believe those people.
Love,
Mommy"
Sunday, February 21, 2010
ABC's of Me
A - Age: 26
B - Bed size: Queen, but hoping for a king soon!
C - Chore you hate: scrubbing toilets
D - Dog's Name: no dog...
E - Essential start your day item: A few quiet minutes to start dishes, laundry, and check email.
F - Favorite color: pink
G - Gold or Silver: Silver
H - Height: 5’6
I - Instruments you play(ed): Percussion and Flute
J - Job title: Mom, Wife, Homemaker, and Dance Teacher
K - Kid(s): Hunter, Claire, Graysen, S, and B.
L - Living arrangements? In a home with my husband, 2 children, and soon to be 2 more!
M - Mom's name: Georgia
N - Nicknames: Ash
O - Overnight hospital stay other than birth: none...well, none that didn't DEAL with pregnancy
P - Pet Peeve: loud people
Q - Quote from a movie: "I can't think about that right now. If I do, I'll go crazy, I'll think about that tomorrow."
R - Right or left handed: Right
S - Siblings: Kara (in laws: Lucas, Tamra, Becca, Justin, Evan, and Rachel)
T - Time you wake up: anywhere between 7:00 and 8:30
U - Underwear: need new
V - Vegetable you dislike: asparagus!
W - Ways you drink your coffee: cold only
X-rays you've had: Teeth, back
Y - Yummy food you make: I don't know!
Z - Zoo favorite: Lions and Tigers
B - Bed size: Queen, but hoping for a king soon!
C - Chore you hate: scrubbing toilets
D - Dog's Name: no dog...
E - Essential start your day item: A few quiet minutes to start dishes, laundry, and check email.
F - Favorite color: pink
G - Gold or Silver: Silver
H - Height: 5’6
I - Instruments you play(ed): Percussion and Flute
J - Job title: Mom, Wife, Homemaker, and Dance Teacher
K - Kid(s): Hunter, Claire, Graysen, S, and B.
L - Living arrangements? In a home with my husband, 2 children, and soon to be 2 more!
M - Mom's name: Georgia
N - Nicknames: Ash
O - Overnight hospital stay other than birth: none...well, none that didn't DEAL with pregnancy
P - Pet Peeve: loud people
Q - Quote from a movie: "I can't think about that right now. If I do, I'll go crazy, I'll think about that tomorrow."
R - Right or left handed: Right
S - Siblings: Kara (in laws: Lucas, Tamra, Becca, Justin, Evan, and Rachel)
T - Time you wake up: anywhere between 7:00 and 8:30
U - Underwear: need new
V - Vegetable you dislike: asparagus!
W - Ways you drink your coffee: cold only
X-rays you've had: Teeth, back
Y - Yummy food you make: I don't know!
Z - Zoo favorite: Lions and Tigers
Saturday, February 20, 2010
and the winner is.......
She has told me that she'll be using the photo session for a 5 Generation Photo of her Great Grandma, Grandma, Mom, Her, and daughter! I'm so glad that it will be used to document the special ties of a family...that's what it's all about - having a family!! Hopefully she'll be willing to let me share a picture from the session with you all.
Congratulations!
Thank you to every one who participated.
I told Lincoln I wish so badly you could have each won! We have been blessed by you all more than you will ever understand. We are so very close to having raised all of the money that we need to bring these beautiful boys home to their forever family!!
I told Lincoln I wish so badly you could have each won! We have been blessed by you all more than you will ever understand. We are so very close to having raised all of the money that we need to bring these beautiful boys home to their forever family!!
Friday, February 19, 2010
What is he learning at school?!
Me: Hunter, do you want milk or juice with your lunch?
Hunter: Juice
Me: What kind? (because I had to make it anyway, so it really didn't matter what he picked)
Hunter: Wine
Me: *pause* Excuse me?
Hunter: I want wine momma
Me: Hunter, where did you learn about wine?
Hunter: at preschool
Me: What did they tell you about it?
Hunter: That that was the first miracle Jesus performed. He turned 6 jugs of water into wine.
Me: Very interesting Hunter. Unfortunately you have to be Aunt Sissy's age before you can drink wine.
Hunter: They gave it to me at school today though!
Me: Uh...maybe it was grape juice?!
Hunter: oh yeah, they did say that.
Wow! Let me preface this by saying that we never have alcohol in our home, so I was VERY taken aback when he said he wanted wine! I also briefly had the inkling to call the lady who runs his preschool and complain about them exposing my 5 year old to the concept of wine. But...I gathered my thoughts real quickly and decided that was not the route to take. I have been nothing but thrilled with this school so far and know that they did not really "teach" him about wine as we know it today.
Lincoln later gave Hunter (and me) a history lesson about why Jesus did that. Lincoln explained to Hunter that back in those days and in that area the water wasn't very safe to drink (like Ethiopia), so Jesus turned the water into something safer to drink.
I just never expected to hear "I want wine" out of MY 5 year old's mouth!!! Wow.
Hunter: Juice
Me: What kind? (because I had to make it anyway, so it really didn't matter what he picked)
Hunter: Wine
Me: *pause* Excuse me?
Hunter: I want wine momma
Me: Hunter, where did you learn about wine?
Hunter: at preschool
Me: What did they tell you about it?
Hunter: That that was the first miracle Jesus performed. He turned 6 jugs of water into wine.
Me: Very interesting Hunter. Unfortunately you have to be Aunt Sissy's age before you can drink wine.
Hunter: They gave it to me at school today though!
Me: Uh...maybe it was grape juice?!
Hunter: oh yeah, they did say that.
Wow! Let me preface this by saying that we never have alcohol in our home, so I was VERY taken aback when he said he wanted wine! I also briefly had the inkling to call the lady who runs his preschool and complain about them exposing my 5 year old to the concept of wine. But...I gathered my thoughts real quickly and decided that was not the route to take. I have been nothing but thrilled with this school so far and know that they did not really "teach" him about wine as we know it today.
Lincoln later gave Hunter (and me) a history lesson about why Jesus did that. Lincoln explained to Hunter that back in those days and in that area the water wasn't very safe to drink (like Ethiopia), so Jesus turned the water into something safer to drink.
I just never expected to hear "I want wine" out of MY 5 year old's mouth!!! Wow.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Photo Raffle: LAST CHANCE
This is your last chance to get in on the photo raffle that we're holding!
We will be traveling in April or May to Africa to pick up our twin 6 year old boys and bring them home to their forever family! We can not wait to introduce them to our friends, family, and community. You all have shown us such great love already, I know you will make them feel very comfortable here. Thank you in advance for that!
Professional Photographer, Nikki Eads, has donated a photo session to help us bring home our two new sons!
Check out more of her work at: nikkieads.com
Prize includes:
* A 2 hour Family, Maternity, Baby Shoot, Senior Portraits - Whatever you want really!
* Free Sitting Session (a 150.00 value)
* Choice of your location (in the state of Missouri), day, and time
* Online Slide show (50.00 value)
We are selling raffle tickets for 10.00 each or 3 for 20.00.
Available for purchase:
*This this blog (just comment!)
Through email (ashleyredburn@hotmail.com)
* STJ Middle School (through Georgia Turrentine)
* The Dance Studio
Drawing will be held on February 20th!
I can't wait to see YOUR pictures!
Ashley
2nd Letter to the boys
Second Letter to the boys...
Dear boys,
We have been keeping busy around our house preparing for your arrival! We are looking for a bigger car to buy so that we can all fit in one car. The car we have now is too small! We are starting to buy you both new clothes. Do you each have a favorite color? Aunt Sissy just got you all matching blankets for your beds! S, B, and Hunter have blue and Graysen has pink.
We talk about you all the time. Graysen has been practicing saying your names. We have your pictures on our refrigerator. We made cheeseburgers for dinner a few nights ago and wondered if you would like them. Have you ever eaten a cheeseburger? Mommy is going to try to learn to cook some food from
It snowed a lot here last week and Daddy and Hunter played outside in it. They even built a snowman. I’m sending you a picture of them standing by it. Can you believe it’s all made of snow? They put one of Hunter’s scarves around his neck. They used buttons for his eyes and sticks off the tree in the backyard for his arms.
Mommy is a dance teacher. I have been dancing since I was 3 years old! I teach lots of different kinds of dance. Do you like to dance? We have dance parties at our house almost every day. We turn music up really loud and dance all around the living room!
Have you heard about Jesus? We are Christians, which means that we believe that a man named Jesus was sent to earth by God to forgive us of our sins (the bad things we do). If we believe in Him and love Him we can go to Heaven when we die and live together forever! Jesus loves each of us, and He loves you too! Hunter is very excited to tell you all about God and read Bible stories with you. The Bible is the book that teaches us all about God and Jesus. We read stories from the Bible every night before bedtime. He can’t wait to take you to Sunday School with him at Church on Sundays too.
We have been praying for you every day. We know you might be feeling scared about leaving
Love always and forever,
Mom and Dad
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Only 4 more days...
until we announce the winner of the Photo Session with Nikki Eads!
(This is her husband and beautiful baby girl!)
We will draw a winner on February 19th and announce the winner on February 20th!!!
(Here are the details of the raffle, just in case you've forgotten!)
Only a few more days to purchase those raffle tickets!
(This is her husband and beautiful baby girl!)We will draw a winner on February 19th and announce the winner on February 20th!!!
(Here are the details of the raffle, just in case you've forgotten!)
Only a few more days to purchase those raffle tickets!
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Letter to the boys
The first letter I sent to the boys...
S & B,
We feel so blessed that you are joining our family! Our family members are Daddy, Mommy, Hunter, Graysen, and now, both of you!
Mommy will stay at home with both of you and your brother and sister everyday. I love playing and doing crafts! Mommy sometimes works at a Dance Studio, and you will get to spend that time with Daddy. Daddy works, but not everyday. Sometimes we get to have a family day and just spend time together. Daddy works at a very big place called Wal-Mart. He is also a basketball coach. He can’t wait for you to come see some of his games!
Hunter is 5 years old and your brother. He is super excited about getting big brothers! He has prayed for you for a year now and can not wait until you come home. He loves to play with toys and all kinds of sports. He especially loves soccer and football. He also loves to dance.
Graysen is 2 years old and your sister. She loves playing with baby dolls and her big brother. She goes to dance class one time a week.
The town we live in is called Saint James, we live in the state of
You will go to school next year with your brother Hunter. He is very excited about you all starting school together. You can play on soccer teams if you want to, Hunter played last year and had a lot of fun.
Your new Great Grandma lives right next door to us and is very excited about meeting you! She is 83 years old and we spend a lot of time with her.
Our house has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living room, and a kitchen. You will share a bedroom with Hunter and Graysen. Mommy and Daddy have a bedroom, and the other bedroom is filled with toys. We call it the playroom. We have a very big backyard with a swing set and a tree to climb in. You can see the top of the tree over our house in the picture we sent you.
We hope you enjoy the things in your bag. You can see a picture of us all wearing our bracelets like the ones that we made and sent to you. Maybe we can all wear them until we are together! The play men that we sent you are some of Hunter’s favorites. They are called Power Rangers. The shirts are from the basketball team that Daddy coaches.
We love you,
Mom and Dad
Monday, February 15, 2010
What are you hoping to win?
What kind of photo session are you hoping to win with Nikki Eads? Have you bought your raffle tickets yet?! The more you buy the better your chances are...
(Here are the details of the raffle just in case you've forgotten!)
Thank you, thank you, thank you for helping us finish raising the funds to bring our new sons home!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Get your tickets fast!
(photo of Graysen at 1 month by Nikki Eads)
The raffle for a photo session with Nikki Eads is coming to a close quickly!
Make sure you get your tickets now!!!
(Here are the details of the raffle in case you've forgotten, or just tuned in!)
Make sure you get your tickets now!!!
(Here are the details of the raffle in case you've forgotten, or just tuned in!)
Friday, February 12, 2010
To parents with children younger than mine:
Dear parents of young children,
I'm only giving this unsolicited advice because I think it truly is in your best interest.
I'm only giving this unsolicited advice because I think it truly is in your best interest.
Do not leave a 5 and 2 year old unattended. For any length of time. Under any circumstances. Period.
I've been working really hard at being a better housekeeper. I've been more diligent about letting my kids play by themselves while I do laundry, dusting, vacuuming, dishes, etc. I involve them whenever possible, but when not, I try to give them "jobs" to do to keep them busy (and out of my hair). I started the day with Clorox wipes and a scavenger hunt to find and clean all the light switches and door knobs in the house...that was a success.
Do not try to sucker your kids into helping you clean because you're behind, unless you are standing over them (and the cleaning supplies). Even if you make a game out of it.
Today I gave Hunter and Graysen the task of cleaning the glass door to our entertainment center.
Yes, I entrusted my 5 year old with the glass cleaner, and my 2 year old with a roll of paper towels. What was I thinking? I don't know. I was on the phone with my cousin, baking banana bread, cooking Spinach Artichoke Dip, and doing the dishes...all at the same time. Stupid. Go ahead and say it.
When I realized it was taking them a bit longer than it should have I came in the living room to see about 1/4 inch of Windex standing in the window seal, the lamp shade ripped off the lamp (literally torn) and soaking wet, and my son having a melt down because the TV wouldn't turn on. Wow. I guess they got a little overzealous and wanted to also clean the window, lamp shade, and TV.
So...I now have a lamp in the living room with no lamp shade and a TV that wont' turn on...because it's drenched with Windex. Hopefully it will dry out and work just fine...but no such luck as of yet!
Yes, I entrusted my 5 year old with the glass cleaner, and my 2 year old with a roll of paper towels. What was I thinking? I don't know. I was on the phone with my cousin, baking banana bread, cooking Spinach Artichoke Dip, and doing the dishes...all at the same time. Stupid. Go ahead and say it.
When I realized it was taking them a bit longer than it should have I came in the living room to see about 1/4 inch of Windex standing in the window seal, the lamp shade ripped off the lamp (literally torn) and soaking wet, and my son having a melt down because the TV wouldn't turn on. Wow. I guess they got a little overzealous and wanted to also clean the window, lamp shade, and TV.
So...I now have a lamp in the living room with no lamp shade and a TV that wont' turn on...because it's drenched with Windex. Hopefully it will dry out and work just fine...but no such luck as of yet!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Another sneak peak
(She might kill me because none of these are edited...but I think they're beautiful before, so just imagine what they would be like after!!!)
Just think...you could WIN a FREE photo session with her! (Here are the details of the raffle)
Alright, here's another one of her shots...as if you needed more proof of what a wonderful photographer she is!
(Graysen at one month)
Remember to let me know how many raffle tickets you would like to purchase...
Thanks again for your support in helping to bring S & B home!!!
Thanks again for your support in helping to bring S & B home!!!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
2 shirts left...
I have 2 Adult Medium Adoption Shirts left. I would like to sell them for 10.00 each. If anyone is interested, please let me know! First come, first serve!
Ashley
Ashley
4
Happy 4th Birthday to my sweet Angel Claire.
Sweet baby girl,
Yes, I still think of you as a baby. I know, you're 4 years old now and probably wouldn't appreciate being called a baby if you were still living here with us. I imagine that you would be beautiful, smart, and very active, much like your brother Hunter.
A lot has changed since your last birthday. Last year I felt very sad, and lonely without you here. This year, although I am crying as I type this letter, I do feel much more at peace. Probably the best I've felt since Jesus took you to live with Him. People talk about you often, and that helps. I think as more time passes, the people around us will feel more comfortable talking about you and all of the beautiful things that your short life taught us. Talking about you helps. Seeing the pictures of you in my belly that hangs on the wall between your brother and sister's frames help. Keeping you a daily part of our lives helps.
Mommy is learning to live a full and happy life without you here. It was hard the first few years, but I'm learning...sometimes Mommies are the slowest learners! :0) As you know, we are adding two more brothers to our family soon! I know you will be excited about this. God has been holding them close, and I'm sure, has appointed you to be especially watchful of them until we can get them home. Thank you for that.
I bought new flowers for your headstone, which I know you care nothing about, but it makes Mommy and Daddy feel better when there are pretty flowers by your name! This year they are blue, purple and pink.
We will take 4 pink balloons and tie them on your headstone this morning and then we'll head to STL as a family to go to Chuck E. Cheese to celebrate! We will celebrate you, our family, our love for each other, our commitment to each other even through hard times, and God, who is faithful, always. We'll have birthday cake tonight at Bible Study and celebrate you with some of our friends.
I love you sweet baby girl. I think of you every single day. I miss you every single day. What I wouldn't do to hold you just one more time...
It is only our time left here on Earth that separates us from you...until that day,
Love Always,
Mommy
Yes, I still think of you as a baby. I know, you're 4 years old now and probably wouldn't appreciate being called a baby if you were still living here with us. I imagine that you would be beautiful, smart, and very active, much like your brother Hunter.
A lot has changed since your last birthday. Last year I felt very sad, and lonely without you here. This year, although I am crying as I type this letter, I do feel much more at peace. Probably the best I've felt since Jesus took you to live with Him. People talk about you often, and that helps. I think as more time passes, the people around us will feel more comfortable talking about you and all of the beautiful things that your short life taught us. Talking about you helps. Seeing the pictures of you in my belly that hangs on the wall between your brother and sister's frames help. Keeping you a daily part of our lives helps.
Mommy is learning to live a full and happy life without you here. It was hard the first few years, but I'm learning...sometimes Mommies are the slowest learners! :0) As you know, we are adding two more brothers to our family soon! I know you will be excited about this. God has been holding them close, and I'm sure, has appointed you to be especially watchful of them until we can get them home. Thank you for that.
I bought new flowers for your headstone, which I know you care nothing about, but it makes Mommy and Daddy feel better when there are pretty flowers by your name! This year they are blue, purple and pink.
We will take 4 pink balloons and tie them on your headstone this morning and then we'll head to STL as a family to go to Chuck E. Cheese to celebrate! We will celebrate you, our family, our love for each other, our commitment to each other even through hard times, and God, who is faithful, always. We'll have birthday cake tonight at Bible Study and celebrate you with some of our friends.
I love you sweet baby girl. I think of you every single day. I miss you every single day. What I wouldn't do to hold you just one more time...
It is only our time left here on Earth that separates us from you...until that day,
Love Always,
Mommy
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
My mantra is going to be...
"In chaos there lies opportunity"
I think I'll need to say this to myself several times a day after I double our children this spring /summer! Of course I can thank Dove Chocolate for the quote...come to think of it, I may need a few more of those as well...
____________________________________________________________________
Lessons from Claire #9:
You can do anything you set your mind to. It's true. You may feel totally incapable, physically and mentally to accomplish a task...but it's truly mind over matter. I was able to do dishes, care for my son, go back to work, cook dinner here and there. It wasn't easy, and it wasn't enjoyable (in fact it took a LONG time for enjoyment actually return to my life)...but it was possible.
I love my husband because:
He is committed to our marriage. He tells me almost daily that we are in this for the long haul. Divorce is not an option for us.
____________________________________________________________________
Lessons from Claire #9:
You can do anything you set your mind to. It's true. You may feel totally incapable, physically and mentally to accomplish a task...but it's truly mind over matter. I was able to do dishes, care for my son, go back to work, cook dinner here and there. It wasn't easy, and it wasn't enjoyable (in fact it took a LONG time for enjoyment actually return to my life)...but it was possible.
I love my husband because:
He is committed to our marriage. He tells me almost daily that we are in this for the long haul. Divorce is not an option for us.
Monday, February 8, 2010
A Photo Raffle for a Great Cause!
(A sample from Graysen's 1 month pictures taken by Nikki)
Would you like a chance to win a photo session with a professional photographer from the Kansas City area?!
A great friend, and advocate for the orphan, has donated a photo session to be raffled off to help S & B come home!
All proceeds will be going toward our travel expenses (think 4 plane tickets, 2 visas for the boys, guest house lodging for 5 nights...).
Prize includes:
Available for purchase:
Drawing will be held on February 20th!
All proceeds will be going toward our travel expenses (think 4 plane tickets, 2 visas for the boys, guest house lodging for 5 nights...).
Check out her website for more samples of her work:
Nikki Eads Photography
Nikki Eads Photography
Prize includes:
- A 2 hour Family, Maternity, Baby Shoot, Senior Portraits - Whatever you want really!
- Free Sitting Session (a 150.00 value)
- Choice of your location (in the state of Missouri), day, and time
- Online Slide show (50.00 value)
We are selling raffle tickets for 10.00 each or 3 for 20.00.
Available for purchase:
- on this blog (please comment with # of tickets and mail check to 1100 Hwy 72, Rolla, Mo 65401)
- Through email (ashleyredburn@hotmail.com)
- STJ Middle School
- The Dance Studio
I can't wait to see YOUR pictures!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
My God is powerful.
Today was awesome. Today I felt God's powerful presence.
As three women, three sisters in Christ, three best friends knelt before God, He was there. He was right there with us, covering each of our hands as we held them. He was listening, He was preparing to do great things. He caught the tears that were shed, He spoke our words to each other and to Him.
It's not often that I am able to be with two of my very best friends. With the hundreds of miles that separate us, and the 6 (soon to be 8) children that we have, it's hard for the three of us to get together...but let me tell you, when we are - something big is bound to happen!
Our time together was spent encouraging each other in God's Word and love. We were reminded that "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (1st Corinthians 13:4-8)
How different is that than what the world today tells us? When our friend or spouse wrongs us, are we kind? Are we not rude to them, not angered? Do we not keep any record of wrongs? Doubtful. The world tells us that we deserve better. We deserve to keep the record of wrongs and they deserve for it to be shoved in their face as often as possible.
The world tells us that we don't have to forgive...that it is weak to forgive. I have to argue with that. I think it's the strong, harder thing to do to forgive and forget. I would argue that it's much harder to show someone the love of Christ after they have wronged you than it is to follow the rules that society has set for us.
Oh how I adored my time with the girls. How I long for more. Every time I see them I crave more time with them. They are such an encouragement to me. They work hard every single day to become closer to Jesus Christ and to live a Godly life. They are trying to raise their children to know and love God. I know I can trust their counsel. They speak The Truth into my life, whether we are together or apart. I know I can call and have them pray for me right then and there, no matter what they are doing - because they know and believe that God is the Truth and the Light. How nice it is to be surrounded by women, mothers, and wives who seek God's way before their own way and aren't afraid to say it!
FFH is a band that we have all loved since HS. We used to sing their songs of praise together weekly...One day we'll do it again girls, until then...
As three women, three sisters in Christ, three best friends knelt before God, He was there. He was right there with us, covering each of our hands as we held them. He was listening, He was preparing to do great things. He caught the tears that were shed, He spoke our words to each other and to Him.
It's not often that I am able to be with two of my very best friends. With the hundreds of miles that separate us, and the 6 (soon to be 8) children that we have, it's hard for the three of us to get together...but let me tell you, when we are - something big is bound to happen!
Our time together was spent encouraging each other in God's Word and love. We were reminded that "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (1st Corinthians 13:4-8)
How different is that than what the world today tells us? When our friend or spouse wrongs us, are we kind? Are we not rude to them, not angered? Do we not keep any record of wrongs? Doubtful. The world tells us that we deserve better. We deserve to keep the record of wrongs and they deserve for it to be shoved in their face as often as possible.
The world tells us that we don't have to forgive...that it is weak to forgive. I have to argue with that. I think it's the strong, harder thing to do to forgive and forget. I would argue that it's much harder to show someone the love of Christ after they have wronged you than it is to follow the rules that society has set for us.
Oh how I adored my time with the girls. How I long for more. Every time I see them I crave more time with them. They are such an encouragement to me. They work hard every single day to become closer to Jesus Christ and to live a Godly life. They are trying to raise their children to know and love God. I know I can trust their counsel. They speak The Truth into my life, whether we are together or apart. I know I can call and have them pray for me right then and there, no matter what they are doing - because they know and believe that God is the Truth and the Light. How nice it is to be surrounded by women, mothers, and wives who seek God's way before their own way and aren't afraid to say it!
FFH is a band that we have all loved since HS. We used to sing their songs of praise together weekly...One day we'll do it again girls, until then...
It brings such joy to my heart to see other parents who praise the name of Jesus even through the loss of a child. God reveals Himself in ways that are special to individuals...because He is a personal God. He cares about each one of us individually, knows each one of us individually, and speaks to each one of us individually. If you'll let Him, He gives each of us what we need in this life. They are right, we are only separated by our time left here on Earth...I hope Claire and Elliot have met.
I will always love you
To my kids,
I will always love you. There is nothing you could ever do or say that will change that. You could move to the other side of the world, you could run away from home. You could tell me how much you hate me or choose a lifestyle that I don't agree with. It won't change the way my heart feels about you. It won't change the way I work everyday to show you that I love you.
Because love is an action word.
I love you means I will never leave you. I love you means I will never abandon you. I love you means I will continue to pray for you all the days of my life. I love you means I will work to earn your trust. I love you means I will make decisions based on what is in your best interest, not what is in mine. I love you means I will sacrifice for you. Sometimes my happiness for yours, sometimes my new jeans for yours. I love you means I will always have an open heart and mind when you share with me. I love you means I will share my heart and mind with you. I love you means I will do whatever possible to make you comfortable in my home - forever. I love you means I will support you in your dreams, even when they are not my dreams for you. I love you means that sometimes I will hurt in order to keep you from hurting.
I will make mistakes, but I will never stop loving you.
I will always love you,
Mom
____________________________________________________________________
Lessons from Claire #7:
Death doesn't have to be sad, it can be celebrated. We often like to think about how wonderful it is that Claire is with her Heavenly Father! We love that she got to skip all of the harshness of this world and go straight to the reward that we all wait for!
I love my husband because:
We are really good communicators. We work really hard at letting each other know how we are thinking and feeling. We are honestly interested in what the other has to say.
I will always love you. There is nothing you could ever do or say that will change that. You could move to the other side of the world, you could run away from home. You could tell me how much you hate me or choose a lifestyle that I don't agree with. It won't change the way my heart feels about you. It won't change the way I work everyday to show you that I love you.
Because love is an action word.
I love you means I will never leave you. I love you means I will never abandon you. I love you means I will continue to pray for you all the days of my life. I love you means I will work to earn your trust. I love you means I will make decisions based on what is in your best interest, not what is in mine. I love you means I will sacrifice for you. Sometimes my happiness for yours, sometimes my new jeans for yours. I love you means I will always have an open heart and mind when you share with me. I love you means I will share my heart and mind with you. I love you means I will do whatever possible to make you comfortable in my home - forever. I love you means I will support you in your dreams, even when they are not my dreams for you. I love you means that sometimes I will hurt in order to keep you from hurting.
I will make mistakes, but I will never stop loving you.
I will always love you,
Mom
____________________________________________________________________
Lessons from Claire #7:
Death doesn't have to be sad, it can be celebrated. We often like to think about how wonderful it is that Claire is with her Heavenly Father! We love that she got to skip all of the harshness of this world and go straight to the reward that we all wait for!
I love my husband because:
We are really good communicators. We work really hard at letting each other know how we are thinking and feeling. We are honestly interested in what the other has to say.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)