Every Life is Beautiful

Aaron & I are huge advocates for LIFE.  We have been blessed beyond measure with our two children.  I seriously couldn't imagine my LIFE without them.  Getting pregnant does not come easy to us, and we have had to say good-bye to two children through miscarriage.  The grief and heartbreak of such a loss is more than I can put into words.  These experiences, both the joy and sorrow, have led us to realize that every LIFE is beautiful.  Through this realization our hearts have been opened to giving LIFE to those who need it, so we are planning to adopt within the next few years.

We have made a commitment to stand up for LIFE in every opportunity that comes our way.  The recently release move October Baby deals with the issues of abortion, adoption, LIFE, and the gift of forgiveness.  From its website this is what is said about the movie;  "With its powerful, compelling story of a young woman who was adopted by loving parents after a failed abortion attempt, OCTOBER BABY will remind moviegoers that every life is beautiful. As it does, the movie will open eyes and hearts to the sanctity of life."  We just viewed the movie last week and it was amazing!  I definitely recommend that you watch it.  Part of the movie's agenda is the Every LIFE is Beautiful campaign.  There are stories of abortion survivors, the beauty of adoption, children with disabilities, healing after an abortion, LIFE, and death.  Each video is just 1-3 minutes and is so worth your time.  You will be blessed I promise!  Please check it out here at everylifeisbeautiful.com.  If you'd like more information about the movie as well there is a link to it from the website.  Please join me in standing up for LIFE and showing others that every LIFE is beautiful.

LIFE

This past Friday we participated in the Right to Life / Together for Life Memorial Walk on the steps of the state capital with Georgia Right to Life. This was our 3rd year to participate, and every year it hits me to my core. Abortion is real. It happens everyday...several times a day. It is so prevalent in our society, yet so secret at the same time. Many women choose abortion because it is an easy answer to a situation they didn't plan for; however, in its aftermath it brings destruction through heartache, fear, guilt, shame, unworth, disappointment, and judgment. I long to see the day when abortion is illegal, but more importantly I long for the day when women choose LIFE over an easy out whether it is legal or not. I pray that the Lord will raise up families to adopt children that were given the chance to live. I pray that the Lord will change the heart of our nation and political leaders to see that abortion an ugly reality. I pray that the Lord would send revival upon us and end abortion forever. Until that day comes, I ask you to join me in prayer that the Lord will bring an end to abortion in America, and raise up people to be His hands and feet in this battle against evil. May His will be accomplished and His glory reign.

For more information you can visit the Georgia Right to Life website.

God, End Abortion and Send Revial to America!

Life is Precious

On Friday, January 22, marked the 37th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. The Georgia Right to Life hosted their annual silent march on the steps of the state capital. Aaron and I are very passionate about life, and have made this rally part of our yearly family plans. Aaron's dad and sister, Cara, went with us this year. They started the rally with worship on the capital steps and then we heard from the speakers. We then watched what the reality of abortion has looked like over the past 37 years. In 1986 we lost 7 people in the Challenger explosion, but in that same year we lost 1,328,112 babies to abortion. In 1995 we lost 168 people in the Oklahoma City bombing, and in that same year we lost 1,210,883 babies to abortion. In the September 11 attacks we lost 2,973 precious lives, and in that same year 1,291,000 babies lost their lives. It is so sad to me that since the passing of Roe v. Wade there have been 50+ MILLION babies lost to abortion. To remember each of these babies they played Taps on the bugle and we marched through the streets of Atlanta. We marched in silence for those that don't have a voice. We marched because life is precious.

Recent...

So much has been going on with us lately. This week was drama week at Prospect, and Aaron played the role of Jesus again. He did a wonderful job, and I'm always so proud of him and the job he does in this role each year. This is one of my favorite pictures of Aaron from the drama. If you'd like to see some pictures of the drama you can check here. Today Beth headed to THAILAND! I am so proud of her and the sacrifice she is making to serve others in this world who need to see Jesus in others. I know she is super excited about what all God is going to do during her stay. While she is there she will be celebrating Christmas with all the girls and delivering their Christmas boxes from their sponsor families. Please be in prayer for her as she ministers at the House of Grace over the next 12 days.

P.S. Isn't she AMAZING?

And I almost forgot, but Levi is now 18 months old! I can't believe it! He is growing up SO fast. He has his 18 month appointment next week, so I'll post his stats and such then, but for now here is what he is up to...

• He is talking so much these days. He says: papa, mama, ball, basketball, dodger, baby, Jesus, uh oh, juice, set, go, two, three, and a few more. Some he says more than others. He also understands tons more words like waffle, help, milk, and simple commands, but hasn't said them yet.
• He knows his ears, nose, fingers, bellybutton, toes, mouth, and eyes (sometimes).
• He's pooped in the potty once. He's just starting the training, but we are so proud of him anyway.
• He smiles really big when you say "Cheese."
• He loves balloons, cars, VeggieTales, Christmas lights (thanks Ky for your yard), his doggie, and sticks.
• He eats most anything - and sometimes eats me out of house and home.
• He still signs 'please' and 'all done,' but hasn't used any other signs on a continuous basis.
• He is very friendly and always waves hi and bye to everyone we meet.
• He is a ham! He loves being the center of attention and laughing.
• He loves playing. He will play by himself, but loves when other play with him especially if they chase him.
• He has his first ear infection last week, but is doing much better.
• He has 16 teeth!! His i-teeth are finishing coming in, and that gives him 16 total. He is a champ at teething and hardly ever complains.
• He loves to throw things - sometimes good and bad - and he has a real strong arm.
• He loves outside and would spend all day out there if I would let him.
• He hates the car and would rather play than ride.
• He loves to read - anything. His favorite books right now are Here Come the Firefighters, Jane's Flying Expedition (both are pop-up books), and anything Dr. Seuss.

Red Envelope Day

Yesterday, March 31st, was Red Envelope Day. Red Envelope Day is a peaceful protest against abortion. We are asking everyone to send red envelopes to President Obama to show him how important this issue is to his constituents. The envelopes are mailed empty with the following message written on the back.

You can mail your envelopes to:

President Barack Obama

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW

Washington, D.C. 20500

Aaron & I were unable to mail our envelopes yesterday, so we are mailing them today. I don't think it will matter if they are mailed a little late, so go grab a handful and put them in the mail!

Right to Life

Today we attended the Georgia Right to Life March in downtown Atlanta. It was awesome. The Right to Life organization speaks out against the unjustice being done to our unborn children through abortion. We gathered today to because it is the anniversary of Roe v. Wade (1973) which legalized abortion in the United States. It is estimated that since 1973 there have been 48 million babies aborted in the United States. Approximately 24% of all pregnancies in the U.S. end in abortion. Those numbers alone were cause enough for us to join the GRTL today. We met on the Capital steps for praise and worship, and then had a series of speakers, one of which was the niece of Martin Luther King, Jr. She herself has had two abortions, was about to have a third, and the men in her family stepped in and convinced her otherwise. She now speaks out against abortion realizing the devastating effects it has on the unborn and the mother. After the speakers we participated in a silent one mile march in memory of those that have fallen victim to abortion. Everyone participating was so quiet and respectful as we marched around the streets of Atlanta. As we began the march they played the sound of a heartbeat. They then played Taps on the trumpet, and continued to play it as we walked our mile. It really made what we were doing seem real. I was so touched to see how many people came out to support the cause. Aaron & I have had a burning passion to see abortion outlawed in the United States, and would encourage everyone to join the cause in your own state. We can make a difference if we stand united under Christ and claim His promises for the unborn. Even with the bitter cold, today was totally worth it. It only ignited my passion more. Below are some of my favorite images from the day.

Jesus, I plead your blood over my sins, and the sins of my nation.

God, end abortion. Send revival to America!

Rockland Youth

Aaron & I have been serving as youth leaders at Rockland UMC for the last four months. This Sunday we shared our last meeting with them as we are being called to other ministry at this time. Our time with the girls has been a fun and exciting time. We have learned so much about each of them and have been amazed at the work the Lord has been doing in their lives. In this short time they have taken steps to search deep within themselves to cling closer to Him in new ways. They are beginning to seek after Him with honest hearts, and Aaron & I couldn't ask for more. We are so proud of you girls, and will be praying for you to only follow closer to Him.

Random Acts of Kindness

***Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for a kindness. -Seneca-***

I have been completely blessed this month. It seems like I am encountering kindness almost everywhere I go. The other day I had been shopping with Levi and was unloading my buggy when a lady walked up and said "Let me take that buggy for you. You just take care of him." I was startled. She wanted to help me? Then it happened again today. I was at Kroger and had just finished loading the groceries in the car when a man offered to put my cart away. I was even more startled today because I was alone. No baby in tow. He just wanted to be nice. Now I know it is Christmas, and perhaps that is the reason behind this kindness I've been experiencing, but what if it's not? What if that is how they respond to others all the time? How different would the world be if we all showed kindness to just one person every day? We all know the economy is bad and things are hard right now, so why not make life a little better by being kind to one another. That is my challenge to each of you. I hope each of you will join me in showing an act of random kindness each day. Here in the Christmas season it is possibly an easy challenge, but what about January, March, or July? I believe we can make a big difference through small things. Let's start showing the Father's love to one another just as He instructed us to. Will you join me?

Christmas Drama

Prospect presented their annual Christmas Drama this past weekend. They have been doing the drama for some 20+ years. Aaron has played the role of Jesus for the last three years and did a phenomenal job again this year. I am so proud of him. He really takes the role seriously in hope of portraying our Savior in the most accurate way. It takes a lot out of him - both physically and spiritually - but he does an awesome job. My dad and Beth were also in the drama. Every year Beth plays the role of a young woman that has had an abortion from the pressure of her father. This is a hard role for her, but she does an amazing job every time. This year was no different. Levi made his acting debut as her son in heaven. There is a picture of them at the bottom of the post. The rest of the pictures are from the play. Most are from dress rehearsal because I was helping clean Aaron up on performance night so I couldn't snap any pictures. Angel telling the shepherds of Jesus' birth.Manger scene with the wise men.

Rachel singing "Blessed Redeemer" during the Crucifixion scene.

Hypocrite scene

Rachel praying with Beth.

Beth & Rachel again

Single mom scene.

Kevin singing "He Touched Me"

Here is a picture of Aaron getting his make-up ready for the Crucifixion scene. Sorry it is a little graphic. Levi was Beth's baby in heaven. I called him the star of the show. No - I'm not biased! Here is a picture of them in action.

Corn Maze Mania

Aaron and I have been working with the youth at his dad's church since September. Last Saturday we went to the Corn Maze in McDonough. It was so much fun. They had three different mazes - beginner, intermediate, and expert - and of course we did the expert first. It only took us about 45 minutes, but we finally made it out. At the farm they also had hayrides, games, animals, and a corn gun. All the youth seems to have a great time in fellowship.

Ekklesia Pool Party

Yesterday we went to the Ekklesia Pool Party. A big thanks goes out the Jerry & Pat Culverhouse who hosted us at their home all day. We had a great time swimming and hanging out with one another. The guys entertained us with their jumps and dives off the diving board, and all of us played a little bocce ball at some point during the day. The Culverhouse's provided lunch, and the food was amazingly yummy, especially the birthday cake Beth and Amy brought to celebrate Jason's birthday. We ended the day chilling out and watching the USA men's volleyball team win the gold medal followed by the closing ceremonies of the Olympics.

Levi's Dedication & Blessing

This past Sunday we dedicated Levi to the Lord at Rockland UMC. Aaron's dad is the pastor there, and we wanted to include his congregation in the dedication since we are there from time to time. Aaron's sisters and nieces were able to be there as well as my parents. It was a special time. Aaron's dad did a great job explaining the orgin of Levi's name and giving the blessing over him as we dedicated him to the Lord's work. We are so thankful for our little guy, and know the Lord has put a huge blessing in our lives by giving us Levi.

Religion In America

I saw the following report last night and felt I needed to share it with everyone. In the report you'll see that many Americans are claiming to believe in God, but also believe that their belief is not the only way to heaven. The report also shows high percentages in the number of people who question whether or not God actually exist. The survey also showed that while many people believe in a heaven, very few believe in a hell. This explains the lackluster passion of Christians in the church today, and why Christians don't look and act any differently than the world. If there is no hell, then there really isn't a reason to live fully abandoned to our Savior. It seems that Americans are willing to compromise anything, even their eternity, to keep from offending someone. I was saddened by the survey, but honestly I wasn't surprised. We need to pray that America returns to the Lord.

Upward Soccer Season Starts

This past Saturday was the start of the Upward Soccer season. Aaron coaches 1st - 3rd grade boys, and my sister Beth (who needs to start blogging) coaches 4th - 6th grade girls. The day started off a little dreary, but by the the afternoon, and the start of Aaron's game the day was beautiful. I even have the sunburn to prove it. Since this is the first season of Upward Soccer, referees are hard to come by, so it is up to the coaches to ref their own games. Aaron did a great job and so did his players. They played a great game, and won 5-2. Beth girl's played next, but lost 3-2 (I think). Everyone seemed to have a great time, and we are looking forward to the next several weeks as the season progresses. I've posted some pictures of both games. Hope you enjoy.

Great Season Bulldogs!

I have been assisting my dad with coaching Upward Basketball for the last several months. Upward is a great program that allows all children involved to develop their basketball skills. Our team has worked so well together this year, and all of our players have improved as the season has progressed. We are currently undefeated, with our last game coming up this Saturday. Last night was our last practice. Every year that we have coached, our last practice is a game between our boys and their moms. It is so much fun to watch, and everyone has a great time. Afterwards we have a pizza party for the whole team and their families. We had a great time this year getting to know all the boys and their families. Below are some pictures from the game against their moms. Great season Bulldogs!

Ekklesia Bowling

Ekklesia had an outing this past Sunday afternoon. We went to eat that this wonderful place in McDonough called Pies On Pizza and then we headed to FunTown to do a little bowling. We all had a blast hanging out and showing off our skills or lack there of. I thought you guys might enjoy this picture of Me, Beth, and Amy. They put bowling balls under their shirts so it would look like we were all pregnant. I have some wonderful, crazy sisters.

Amy getting a little excited after knocking down a few pins.

Aaron & Kevin just chillin'.

Christmas Shoeboxes

We participated in the Shoebox Ministry again this year. This is a ministry where we collect shoeboxes and fill them with items for needy children in Mexico. The items we collected are things such as baby dolls, crayons, coloring books, flip flops, socks, toothbrushes and toothpaste, bubbles, soap, and all kinds of toys. Last night we gathered together and put the boxes together and then wrapped them like Christmas presents. They will be collected and taken to Mexico sometime after Thanksgiving. This year we were able to make 300+ boxes! I am so gald that we were able to be apart of this and share God's love with others.

Rich and Beth getting the boxes ready for wrapping

Aaron putting one of the boxes together

Moo wrapping boxes

Mrs. Linda helping get the wrapping done

Jenny make one of the shoeboxes look spectacular

Matt helping load the truck

Beth and Madison showing off one of their boxes