Our Crazy Life

Pictures are Worth a Million Words

2011-03-10T21:45:00.001-06:00

Y'all, I am crazy about pictures. I mean, CrAzY! I love them. I seriously can't take enough of my own children. I have a hard time deleting ones that I know I will never use...I think it may be a sickness:(
I have a precious friend who is a photographer. Her darling, beautiful little girls have gone to school with my Jacob for many years. This woman has a talent. I would love for you all to head over to her blog and check out her work. If you are in the Dallas/Ft Worth area, you will not want to miss an opportunity with Ms. Dawn! After you view her art, make sure to leave her a comment and tell her I sent you!

(The delicious blond one is my own! He is under the title III)
http://www.anewdaybydawn.com/blog/

New Blog Address

2011-01-17T16:38:00.000-06:00

I am moving my blog address to the following:

http://theonlycampbells.blogspot.com

Please keep up with me there! Thanks!

Kindergarten

2010-08-29T09:39:00.000-05:00

And so it is. My 2nd baby will be starting kindergarten tomorrow. The weight on my heart will not lift:( It is so bittersweet for me to reach this milestone. This is my second time, and you would think it would be easier. It.Is.Not.
I love this child with deep, deep love. He has a part of my heart that is completely his. I treasure his laughter as it is one of the most contagious things in life. I will miss it throughout the day in my home.
The teacher that Jacob has this year is amazing. We were blessed to have her teach our sweet Emma. I was so happy to hear her voice on our voicemail telling us that she was excited to have Jacob in her class this year!
It will be a great year, of this I am sure. It will be a hard day tomorrow, of this I am certain.

Jacob, you are loved sweet one. More than words can express. May your day be full of adventures and more knowledge of your sweet Savior.

Summer Lovin'

2010-08-13T11:26:00.000-05:00

Dear Summer,
Please don't ever end...
Yours truly,

The Campbells

Jacob's Dream

2010-08-11T13:59:00.000-05:00

Today Jacob, my five year old, told me about a dream he had last night. He said that in his dream one of his leg hairs was "this long" and lifted his arm way above his head. He said "it kept going around and around and around". He then told me we were in the car on our way to church and he was trying to keep it down, but "it was so long and so curly and would not lay down."
This is my life people.

And I love it.

"Ben Eats an Orange"

2010-08-11T09:46:00.000-05:00

April Fools Day

2010-04-01T21:05:00.002-05:00

I thought that title was appropriate given my last post;)

Here is what I have for you today:

Emma: "Hey Jacob, today is April Fools Day!!!!!!!" (Please say this in your mind with a TON of excitement.)

Jacob: "Oh, there is a buffalo in my room." (Please say this in your mind like you are bored to death and soooo not impressed.)

Emma: "REALLY!?!?!?!?!?!?" (Please say this in your mind like you just found out that you are pregnant.)

Jacob: "No, April Fools." (Again, said in your mind like you are bored to death.)

It was great.

Happy April Fools Day. Moreover, Happy celebrating that our Jesus was put to death for our sins and that He overcame the grave!!!!!!!!!!!!! Jesus came to save sinners and HE is alive!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-13T20:57:00.005-06:00

I hope you all have a very Happy Valentine's Day!! We have had a lovely couple of days with the beautiful snow. North Texas received about 11inches of snow on Thursday night and we are just now seeing it fade away. Our family built the tallest snowman that any of us have ever seen, in real life;) We also had great fun with our sweet neighbors! The Lord has blessed us with our home and this neighborhood. We are so very thankful for the friends that we have in our neighbors!

Enjoy tomorrow, or today if you are reading this on the 14th. It is a day set aside to recognize love. But, remember that we love because Jesus first loved us. I am so thankful for His love and for His life, death and resurrection that covers all my sin!

Christmas Open House

2009-11-20T14:10:00.005-06:00

If you are local, you have GOT to go to my friend Dina's Christmas Open House. She is amazing and has some amazing friends, ahem I am one of them. Anyway, she is having an open house this weekend and if you hop on over to her blog you can get directions. She is asking that no crazy people with criminal backgrounds or mean behaviors come over. She is cool like that.

Enjoy her blog and if you attend her Open House, tell her Keri sent you!
http://marcusanddina.blogspot.com/

On like Donkey Kong

2009-11-20T14:06:00.003-06:00

Ok people. It is on like Donkey Kong. ( I really have no idea what that means.) I think I am now ready to start blogging again! Aren't you excited?!?! I mean really, all three of you should be jumping up from excitement!
I will be back soon...I am off to nap since my three little babes are napping so soundly:)

The Precious Reason My Blog Has Not Been Updated...

2009-04-28T10:16:00.003-05:00

I LOVE being a mommy!!

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-03T15:47:00.006-06:00

Seriously, I have been AWFUL at keeping up this blog:( As with everything else lately, I blame the pregnancy:) I have about one more month to do that, so I will take each chance I can get! Soon, I will post another belly photo, since the last one I posted was at 24 weeks!! Just look up at my ticker and you will see that I am waaaaaaay behind! My fundal measurements were about 2weeks ahead and at our sono almost two weeks ago Ben was measuring 2weeks ahead. He measured right about 5pounds at 31weeks! Which would put us at about 10pounds if we went to the full 40weeks. My doctor is graciously going to induce at 38 weeks...and I can't wait to get my name on the books!!

Enjoy our photos from Halloween. The kids had a TON of fun and received a TON of candy...and they have shared a TON with mommy and daddy:)

Cross My Heart...

2008-09-25T16:24:00.002-05:00

A sweet friend of mine is making and selling t-shirts. She and her husband are adopting a precious little girl from Russia. As you may or may not know, it is quite pricey to travel internationally:) Jennifer has come up with a creative way to raise money to cover their traveling costs.
Her company is called "Cross My Heart Designs". The name comes from the fact that there is a cross on every shirt. The "heart" comes from the fact that their little girl is already in their hearts.

Jennifer makes shirts for all sizes. She makes them for men and little boys as well. She also has baby onesies and bibs that are just adorable.

This family is so precious and we are so excited for them to meet their daughter.

Please visit her site(below) and purchase a shirt!! Tell her that Keri sent you;)
CrossMyHeartDesigns

A moment~

2008-08-31T23:29:00.004-05:00

Would you please take a moment and visit the link to the left under "Pray For..." labeled "Jessi's Mom"?
Jessi and Dustin Bynum are some of the most amazing folks we know. We are abundantly blessed to call them our friends.
A little over a week ago, Jessi's mom was in a serious car accident. She has been in a coma since, but is making progress.
We were able to drive to Austin today to visit with them. It was a sweet time for our family to be with our friends in need. It is so hard to be here in the DFW area and not be able to physically be there with them through this.
Please pray for Cindy, for Jessi and Dustin, for her other four brothers, and for the doctors.

Psalm 30:1-51 I will exalt you, O Lord, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me. 2 O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me. 3 O Lord, you brought me up from the grave; you spared me from going down into the pit. 4 Sing to the Lord, you saints of his; praise his holy name. 5 For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

Almost 24 weeks:)

2008-08-30T08:13:00.008-05:00

It is very obvious to me and everyone else that there is a sweet child growing in my belly. (I know, I know he is not actually "in my belly". But, it doesn't seem as cute to say "in my uterus")

I feel little Ben kicking and punching all the time. I am growing to love it. Of course, I loved the first couple of flitter~flutters that I felt, but as this guy has been growing he is getting much more aggressive. There are times that I am so engulfed with appreciation of this baby that I want to feel him punch me, I love to feel him hiccuping, I long to feel him twist and turn. This may be our last biological baby, and I don't want to take any of this time for granted. Sadly, I think I may have done that in the first two pregnancies. Knowing that I would have another. Then, when we had a miscarriage and the thought of maybe not having another became a reality, something switched in my mind. A true desire to appreciate and be thankful for every single day and minute swelled and became my desire. How grateful I am that the Lord saw fit to grant me the desires of my heart. Because of Him, these precious desires are becoming part of my reality.

The kids are getting more excited everyday. I think seeing my growing tummy has made it more real to them. It is a sweet time. They always come up and talk to their baby brother, telling him about their day and that they love him. It is fun to watch their love for an unseen baby brother grow. I can't help but be reminded of our Heavenly Father. We can't see Him, but we can see the works that He is doing. It is undeniable that He is here, and we can feel His moving at times, just as the children can reach up and feel Ben moving. They can't see him, but they know he is there. At first, it was a trust that what we were saying was true. That there was indeed a baby growing within me. Now, as we have continued to teach them and they see with their own sweet eyes, the progression of their trust has turned to a full on knowledge. And with wide eyes and joy in their voices, they tell others of this life that they are hoping for in December. Speaking of Ben is something that we do everyday. Talking to him, singing to him and telling others of him. It is such a beautiful picture for them of who our great God is. It is such a joy for David and I to show them Jesus in everything that we do. To talk to Him and sing to Him. To be drenched in His love and share that with others. To speak with open eyes and true joy in our hearts of the Hope that is to come.

Thank You, sweet King, for the chance to show our children who You are. Thank you for the many opportunities that you give us daily to see You, to talk to You, to sing to You and tell others of You and Your amazing love for us. Because of you, we live. Because of you, we have hope for things unseen. How great is the love You have lavished upon us!

Waiting...

2008-08-16T22:25:00.002-05:00

These two precious children are patiently waiting for their sweet baby brother to be born! We are blessed beyond words.

Boy or Girl?

2008-08-14T18:43:00.002-05:00

19 weeks!

2008-07-31T17:41:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-30T17:11:00.009-05:00

(Ok, not so "wordless". Jacob had a horrible encounter with a Treadmill.:()

We're Goin' on a Trip:)

2008-07-18T16:08:00.002-05:00

Since you are enjoying all the videos, I thought I would send out one more:) See ya in a week!

The Kids Can Dance!

2008-07-16T16:28:00.001-05:00

Send a JibJab Sendables® eCard Today!

Watch David's Moves

2008-07-16T16:11:00.001-05:00

Send a JibJab Sendables® eCard Today!

Cardboard Testimonies

2008-07-16T10:15:00.001-05:00

What would your cardboard testimony say?
If you feel comfortable, I would love to know.

16 Weeks Down!!

2008-07-11T18:29:00.002-05:00

2008-07-11T15:55:00.006-05:00

If you have been blogging for a while, or know someone who has, you may have come to know how small this world really is. My friend Brittani wrote a great post on this here. She is much more talented than I in the realm of writing.

While at the pool the other day, I met a cute mom and her precious boy. Have you ever had the feeling that you "know" someone that you just met? I kinda felt that way when I met Laurie. Honestly, I thought I recognized her as a speaker for Proverbs 31 Ministries, but I just wasn't sure. When I got home, I googled her name and found that she is the author of the blog Tip Junkie. Not only do I love this blog, but I used a "tip" from it just a couple weeks ago for Emma's birthday party. How fun to learn that Laurie and her family live in our neighborhood.

Now for the sad part. Laurie posted about our meeting on her personal blog. She also put a link to mine. For all the readers that are here via Laurie's blog, I am sincerely sorry. I am boring. I am not a talented writer at all. I hope that you are not so extremely outraged by reading this blog that you go back and write profanities on her's:)

Welcome, nonetheless. This is who I am and who my beautiful family is. I am blessed beyond words and hope that my blog conveys that!

Happy 4th!

2008-07-05T12:13:00.002-05:00

I hope you all had a fabulous 4th of July! We saw amazing fireworks on Thursday night. I mean A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. I told the kids about 5 times that I think this was the finale. They loved them too.
Then, yesterday we spent the day at my aunt and uncle's house. The kids swam all day, literally rubbing blisters on their poor little feet. We ate homemade fried chicken, mashed potatoes, many different salads, fruit, homemade peach cobbler, and so much more. It was scrumptious! I didn't want to leave because I was so stuffed!

I hope the day was fun for everyone and that you enjoyed the freedom we have in our country!

I have zero pictures of our fun, patriotic event. I was too busy enjoying the fun to play photographer!

English Rules

2008-06-26T15:53:00.001-05:00

1. Verbs HAS to agree with their subjects.
2. Prepositions are not words to end sentences with.
3. And don't start a sentence with a conjunction.
4. It is wrong to ever split an infinitive.
5. Avoid cliches like the plague. (They're old hat.)
6. Also, always avoid annoying alliteration.
7. Be more or less specific.
8. Parenthetical remarks (however relevant) are (usually)unnecessary.
9. Also too, never, ever use repetitive redundancies.
10. No sentence fragments.
11. Contractions aren't necessary and shouldn't be used unless you don't want to seem too formal.
12. Foreign words and phrases are not always apropos.
13. Do not use more words, phrases, sentences, or other linguistic elements than you, yourself, actually really and definitely need to use or employ when expressing yourself or otherwise giving voice to what you may or may not be thinking when you are trying to say how many words you should use or not use when using words.
14. One should NEVER generalize.
15. Comparisons are as bad as cliches.
16. Don't use no double negatives.
17. Eschew ampersands & abbreviations, i.e. etc.
18. One-word sentences? Eliminate.
19. Analogies in writing are like feathers on a snake.
20. The passive voice is to be ignored.
21. Eliminate commas, that are, not necessary. Parenthetical words however should be enclosed in commas.
22. Never use a big word when a diminutive one would suffice.
23. Kill excessive exclamation points!!!
24. Use words correctly, irregardless of how others elude to them.
25. Understatement is always the absolute best way to put forth earth shaking ideas.
26. Use the apostrophe in it's proper place and omit it when its not needed.
27. Eliminate distracting quotations. As Ralph Waldo Emerson is said to have once remarked, "I hate quotations. Tell me what you know."
28. If you've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times: Resist hyperbole; not one writer in a million can use it correctly.
29. Puns are for children, not groan readers.
30. Go around the barn at high noon to avoid colloquialisms.
31. Even IF a mixed metaphor sings, it should be derailed.
32. Who needs rhetorical questions?
33. Exaggeration is a billion times worse than understatement.And finally...
34. Proofread carefully to see if you any words out

Father's Day

2008-06-22T15:12:00.009-05:00

Father's day was wonderful this year. We celebrated early because David had to fly out to California on Father's day. (phooey!) If you read my husband's blog, you know that he has lost a great amount of weight and has developed a much healthier way of living. Well, this is awesome in most areas. But, if you go to the pool in a swimsuit that you wore 25 pounds heavier, you might experience some issues:) Let's just say, after sliding down a water slide with one of the kids, he discovered that a new swimsuit was a necessity not a luxury.

Emma thought of it first, to give him one for Father's day. She is a sensitive soul and didn't want her daddy feeling uncomfortable at the pool...her favorite place to frequent:)

We spent the day together as a family and gave David his new suit and some other clothes. We had a yummy dinner and a fun time. The next morning we ate breakfast at Einstein Brothers. A Sugar cookie for Jacob and a cinnamon twistie thing with frosting on it for Emma:). (Don't worry, they had "real" breakfast at home before we left!)

Here are a few pictures of David and his kids. They are so blessed to have David as their father. He loves the Lord, loves me, works super hard at his job so that I can stay home with the kids. We are so thankful for him in our lives! I love you honey!!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-06-11T12:58:00.005-05:00

"The Past and the Pitcher"

2008-05-24T09:26:00.002-05:00

This post on Angie Smith's blog really spoke to me. You just have to read it...

Prayer for the Chapman family

2008-05-22T09:04:00.005-05:00

I am sure most of you have already heard about this tragic accident. I just think we need to unite in prayer for this family, especially the son/brother that was driving the vehicle. I just can't imagine what he is going through right now. You can leave them a comment or prayer here.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-06T16:56:00.004-05:00

Before reading the following, check out my husband's last post. regarding the thankfulness of children:)

"Someone must see the family as worth fighting for, worth calling a career, worth the hard work of training a child in godliness, worth the relentless tasks involved in running a home...This 'someone' is the wife, the mother, and the homemaker and that, as such, she must embrace a life of being the giver. That's our role as mothers." ~Elizabeth George

"And let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't get discouraged and give up."
Galations 6:9

Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs in my field, since the payment is pure love. ~Mildred B. Vermont

I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life. ~Abraham Lincoln

My mom is a neverending song in my heart of comfort, happiness, and being. I may sometimes forget the words but I always remember the tune. ~Graycie Harmon

No painter's brush, nor poet's penIn justice to her fameHas ever reached half high enoughTo write a mother's name.~Author Unknown

Birthday Celebrations

2008-04-26T21:38:00.014-05:00

Last week we had the privilege of celebrating the birthday of my sweet twin nephews and my sister-in-law. It was a celebration at the zoo. What could be more fitting for four little kids under the age of five?!? It was great fun and perfect weather. The animal that I most enjoyed was the toddler gorilla. Man, they are cute. And, although I have two cuties myself, I would NOT turn it down if someone came knocking on my door to give me a baby gorilla. L-O-V-E them!

After the zoo we went to a little hamburger place in Ft. Worth. It was yummy and the cake was too. If you don't know about Texas Star Bakery, you better get there as quick as you can! Jacob and I have "cupcake dates" there often. They are delish. And always cute.

Here are some pictures from our day. Denise, if you ever get online to read my blog I want you to know how very loved you are. You are the sister that I always prayed for. I am so thankful for you in this family. Seriously, what would we do without each other?!?!

And Mark and Charles...we prayed for you two little miracles for so long. It has been such a joy to be your aunt and watch you grow into the handsome little men that you are. I can't wait to see what the Lord has planned for your lives!!

Memoir

2008-04-14T09:23:00.003-05:00

My friend Lauren invited me to write a six word memoir. Here is what I came up with:

Sinner

Wife

Mother

Laugher:)

Friend

Dreamer

Now for the rules:

The instructions are to write your own six word memoir. Post it on your blog, including an illustration if you’d like. Link to the person that tagged you in your post and to the original post if possible so that it can be tracked as it travels across the blogosphere.Tag at least five more blogs with links. Leave a comment on the tagged blogs with an invitation to play.

Brittani, Sunni, Christa, Caroline, and Kristi...now it is your turn!!

Vanessa Whitwell

2008-04-08T07:33:00.002-05:00

Please be in prayer for Fellowship Church...

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-02T20:59:00.003-05:00

Will you pray again?

2008-04-02T10:54:00.003-05:00

The last post I made mentioned Tricia, Nate and Gwyneth. If you did not check up on them, the lungs were not a complete match for Tricia.
They got another call today, on Nate's birthday. This may be the day she receives her double lung transplant. I can't even begin to fathom all the emotions they may be going through.
I will be lifting them up throughout the day...will you join me?

PRAY!!

2008-03-30T21:50:00.002-05:00

I don't know how many of you have been following the story of Tricia, Nate and Gwyneth. If you have or have not, I urge you to visit their blog. Tricia has cystic fibrosis and has been awaiting a double lung transplant. They have a precious baby girl, Gwyneth, that is a micro-preemie in the same hospital as her mommy.

They got a call today that they may have a match for Tricia's new lungs. Please, if the Lord prompts you, pray for this sweet family.

And, for the donor family that has lost a loved one.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-03-19T20:39:00.006-05:00

The Winds of March are Blowing!

2008-03-15T19:54:00.009-05:00

By the title, I mean that we are having a super busy month! I would not have it any other way!

Four sweet girls are pregnant in our homegroup. We had a fabulously fun baby shower honoring all four girls last Saturday. The other ladies in our homegroup are all so amazing and pure joy to be around. I loved every minute of the planning to cleaning up of that shower! Thanks ladies for that opportunity!( I will try to get some photos of that event!!)

The next day was the second birthday of Charlotte. She is the sweet and beautiful daughter of one of my best friends. It was so fun to see all the little ones excited and hyped up on sugar! They had a bounce house that Jacob is convinced is "still there mommy!" I love that we get to have celebrations of life with friends; especially friends like Jan, whom I have known for over 10 years...there's a lot of living' in those memories and I am thankful to say that she has remained my friend through it all!!

Today we celebrated with Sunni and Ava. Little Ava turned Two and we were so happy to share that celebration with her. She is the cutest little thing, and I am sure that Sunni will post some pictures on her blog. Be sure to check them, out. You will be blessed by her sweet little smile! I am blessed and thankful to know this awesome family. I can't wait for many more celebrations with them!

Next weekend, we will celebrate Jacob's third birthday. I will be sure to post pictures of that event. We are so blessed by our son. He is so full of joy and adventure. I can't remember life without Jacob. We are so, so thankful for that sweet boy!

My handsome husband killing all the weeds in our yard!

Sweet son.

Precious Emma.

Little Charlotte eating her cake!

The kids had a cake eating party in the fort of the swing set!

Jacob

Happy Emma.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-03-12T22:09:00.000-05:00

Hey kids! Guess what????

2008-03-06T17:42:00.005-06:00

God made snow!!
There is nothing like a child experiencing God's beauty. Today is Thursday and both of the kids go to school this day. Jacob gets out a little earlier than Emma, but I snuck her out at the same time and then we played. God is amazing. His creations are unmatchable. The looks on my sweet kid's faces as they joyfully take in His creation is priceless. When we got home it was still slushy outside, not really snow at all. Then, a little later, Emma decided to open the blinds and there it was! Huge flakes quickly falling to make the smooth blanket that would soon cover our yards.
So we all dressed in layers of unmatched clothes. I KNEW it would pay off to purchase those bibs from Target last spring! And I think I got them for a mere $3!! ALWAYS praise Him for a good bargain:)
Jacob refused to go outside without his cowboy boots. They are a recent obsession. Emma could not find the match to her left mitten. She also couldn't find the match for her right glove. Oposites attract, right?
We had fun. Pure joy. He is good. He was seen in a new and different way today through the eyes of my children. It was amazing to be a part of God revealing Himself to my Emma and Jacob.

I hope there is more tomorrow!!

Emma and Jacob ready to play!!

Emma and her snowball!!

Jacob

Jacob getting Emma!

A tribute to my friend Caroline...

2008-02-29T22:01:00.002-06:00

As promised...

2008-02-01T21:52:00.000-06:00

My Computer is Broken...

2008-01-30T22:39:00.000-06:00

I know it has been a long time since my last post. My computer is broken and I don't know when I will get it back. I was so sad and really mad when I first found out that I could not even turn it on. David sweetly agreed that during the day when he could, he would let me come in and borrow his computer to check email and peek in on my blog friends. In my mind, and elsewhere I am assuming, I was not happy. I say "elsewhere" because my precious daughter then says, "Mom, you should be happy that you have a husband." Not getting the point I muster a cheery, "I AM happy I have a husband." Then she replies, " You didn't let me finish saying that you should be happy that you have a husband that shares his computer with you." And to that I said, "You're right."
I am so happy that I have a husband who will share his computer with me...and his life. And he does so in such a respectable way. Truly, I have found the one I love.

On a completely random note: Have you ever wondered if your body would look better if you could just stop drinking Dr. Pepper? I mean, I ponder that a lot, but I don't think I am ready to give up the DP. Besides for my beloved Christa, is there anyone else out there that just has to have their soft drink? Mmmmm, I could use one right now.

I will post a funny picture as soon as I can. As a teaser, I will just say that Emma and Jacob had to go to the bathroom at the same time. :)

Resolutions for Moms:

2008-01-16T14:01:00.001-06:00

Many of you may already receive these emails from the P31 Ministry. I just wanted to share this one with you. It touched me. Oh how I pray that I can forget what lies behind and strain forward to what lies ahead...pressing on towards the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus! May my children see that and learn to live it by example.
Be blessed.

January 16, 2008

Real Resolutions for Moms
By Karen Ehman

“… But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:13b-14 (ESV)

Devotion:
It’s that time when many of us are making New Year’s resolutions, so how about some resolutions for mothers? Here are mine:

I will put my Bible before the television, the radio, the telephone, and even before good Christian books, for my children will know my priorities by the way they see me spend my free time.

I will make my prayer requests known before God and my children, enlisting their help in the process and informing them of the outcome, for by letting them help when I petition our Lord will they learn of a living God who still answers prayer.

When times of crisis, conflict or confusion arise, I will hit my knees before I hit the phone knowing that by my example my children will discover that although friends are important, God alone is the one who holds the solution to life’s every problem.

I will erase the words “luck” and “lucky” from my vocabulary and will instead by my speech point my children toward the One who orchestrates every detail of our lives and brings all good things to pass, for by this my children will learn of an omniscient God.

When bad things happen, I’ll neither grumble nor complain, but will instead help my children see that in the scope of our lives even the bad times are allowed for a reason, for by this my children will learn quiet trust in their Maker.

When normal childhood mishaps occur, I will remember that although difficult, it is still easier to remove grape juice from off-white carpet than to erase harsh and unloving words hurled at a child whose chubby little fingers have failed her, for by this my children will see a God who understands when our best efforts fall short.

When my children have witnessed something ugly in me - unkind words, an angry temper, “harmless” gossip, biting sarcasm or even my infamous “mommy pout” when things don’t go my way - I will confess it as sin before them seeking their forgiveness, for by this my children will develop the much needed habit of wiping their spiritual slate clean before God and man.

I will teach my children the importance of cleanliness and order while at the same time remain sensitive to the fact that a skinned knee or hurt feeling is more crucial than a spotless floor or uncluttered counter, for by this my children will learn to value people above things.

I will make time for the lonely, the sick, the elderly, the difficult to love, and will bring my children along, for with each afternoon visit, each ride to the doctor, each raked lawn or washed window they will have opportunity to serve Jesus by serving the “least of these.”

I will make our home a haven of rest and retreat from the outside world and a welcomed place for my children’s friends, for with each impromptu backyard soccer game, each video viewed on a rainy day, each cup of hot cocoa or chocolate chip cookie, my children will have opportunity to practice the art of Christian hospitality thereby learning to share all God has given them.

I will by my actions and my speech let my children see a mom love their dad, for by this will my children sense family stability at a time when marriages all around them are crumbling.

I will not require of my children obedience, honesty, patience or kindness without first being willing to submit to the same rules whether in speed limit, in miscounted change from the grocery store or when answering a toddler for the fourteenth time, for by this my children will see a mother who is also learning and not a perfect parent to whom they’ll never measure up.

In all things will I remember that more is caught than is taught.

There are little eyes upon you, mom. You are the first Bible your children will ever read.

Dear Lord, may my goals this year spring from a right relationship with You and may carrying them out point others heavenward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Related Resources:
A Life that Says Welcome by Karen Ehman

Authentic Parenting in a Postmodern Culture by Mary DeMuth

Visit Karen’s Blog

You are Special a children’s book by Max Lucado
A
Application Steps:
Pick just one or two resolutions that have to do with your role as a wife or mother. Tell a friend and have her hold you accountable for carrying them out.

Reflections:
Of the above resolutions, which are the most difficult for you? Why?

Do any of the things mentioned come more naturally for you? Have they always? Or have you seen growth in your life in these areas?

Power Verses:
I Timothy 4:12, “Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.” (NIV)

II Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (NIV)

Proverbs 31 Ministries

One Hot Chick...

2008-01-07T22:49:00.000-06:00

Too much to say, so...

2008-01-03T14:41:00.000-06:00

Date Night

2007-12-29T09:55:00.000-06:00

Praise the Lord for Date Nights! My sweet Aunt and Granny had a special night with the kiddos while David and I went out. It was so fun!
(Shelley, my sweet friend who does my hair, curled it up and made me blonde!!)

Have a great weekend!

Emma took this one and insisted that I put it on "our" blog:)

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

2007-12-22T22:23:00.000-06:00

'Twas the night before Christmas when all through the stable
Not a creature was stirring, though plenty were able.
The ox and the cow and the goat and the sheep
All comfy and cozy, had drifted to sleep.

The morning doves snuggled all warm in their nest,
While chickens and chicks settled down for a rest.
With smell of fresh hay hanging sweet in the air
The critters all slumbered without any care.

Then out in the darkness a star lit the night
Shining so brilliant, so pure, and so bright!
The stable grew lighter as if it were day
'Till the rooster arose, crowing loudly to say:

"Rise 'n shine, everybody!" he cried, "Cock-a-doo!"
The ox and sheep grunted; the cow softly mooed.
And in a few moments, each one was awake,
Confused and bewildered...was there some mistake?

They squinted and gaped at the glistening star
And then heard a clip-clopping sound from afar.
But after a while the clip-clopping drew close
And right through the door pushed a brown, fuzzy nose.

The animals stared with their mouths open wide
As a man and a woman came right inside.
After heaping the hay to make her a bed,
The man rolled a blanket to pillow her head.

The woman looked weary and tired and worn
Like she had been traveling since earliest morn.
And there in the stable stll flooded with light
They settled back down for a long winter's night.

But just as the critters began to drift deep
A startling noise interrupted their sleep!
The woman cried sharply...like she was in pain!
And all of the critters awakened again.

They waited and listened and watched with wide eyes.
Then to their relief they heard baby cries!
So that was the problem. I wasn't real danger.
The animals smiled at the babe in their manger.

Then just as it seemed the excitement was done,
The animals realized it had only begun!
For in the night sky there arose such a ringing,
With hundreds of angels all joyfully singing:
"Peace on the whole earth and goodwill to us all
For God's only Son has been born in a stall!"

Then down from the hills, the shepherds all poured
To see the sweet baby...they called Him the Lord!
They wept and they worshipped and fell on their knees,
Praying and praising as long as they pleased.

And off in the distance, three learned men smiled,
Then followed the star that would lead to the child.
They'd bring Him great gifts of incredible worth
To give to the King...to honor His birth.

But back in the stable, the critters were awed
To know that this child was the true Son of God!
And so they bowed down and worshipped the King,
And in their own way, sweet praises did ring.
To Jesus they sang, so real and so right:
" A blessed Christmas to all, and to all a good night!"

"And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7

Be blessed this Christmas remembering the birth of our sweet King!

12 Days of Christmas

2007-12-20T13:55:00.000-06:00

Blonde? Brunette? Short or Long?

2007-12-17T21:59:00.000-06:00

Ok, right after you read this I need every one of the three of you:) to leave a comment.
It is decision time. I have a hair appointment, and I need to make a decision.
If you know me, you know I like to change my hair. I have gone from brown to blonde, short to long.
It is time.
I don't know if I should cut it...or become a brunette again?
I need you. Now more than ever.
I think my mind wants to keep growing it and to change to brunette. But, my heart is always a blonde. It IS winter though. I could always go back to my heart's desire when summer rolls around.
I also need whatever is stuck under the "o" key to come out so that I do not have to stomp on the "o" every time I type it!
Shelley, if you are reading this and you have an opinion I need yours the most!:)

Seriously, help.

Our Daughter, Emma

2007-12-12T21:25:00.000-06:00

Emma has always amazed David and me. From her first words, to her deepest thoughts. Her reasoning is profound and her understanding of others is so touching.
Last Friday, Emma asked me if she could get her hair cut. About one year ago, Emma had the cutest short hair. We loved it and were secretly waiting for her to decide that she wanted a change. Well, leave it to her to get "deep" even with something as seemingly shallow as a haircut.
We listen to the radio on our way to school.Being that it is near Christmas, our radio station is granting "Christmas Wishes". Recently she heard of a single mother who had been diagnosed with cancer. Her mother was also dying of cancer and living in her home. The younger mother had three children and was just having a difficult time. Their sweet wish was granted, and through grateful tears she attempted to thank the people who were going to help them. (Which, by the way, was the band Casting Crowns!) A couple of days after this broadcast, on the floor in our TV room, out of nowhere Emma asks, "Does cancer make you die?" It was a heavy, heartfelt question for our four year old daughter to ask. We answered her as best we could and left feeling a bit sad. Sad because she is getting to the age where complete innocence is fading. Sad because her little ears heard of a mommy who's mommy is dying. Sad because she felt for the three precious children who do not know how long they will have their mommy. But, happy because our great King made Emma to have a heart for His children.
So, back to the haircut. We have known several friends who have donated their hair to Locks of Love. This is what Emma decided she wanted to do. A descision completely made up by herself. Can I tell you how proud I felt at that moment? Ummm, no. There just are no words.
So we traveled down to Sweet'N'Sassy, where Emma proceeded to get 7inches of her hair cut off. She donated her beautiful "princess" hair to some sweet child of God who may be feeling down because of some nasty illness. We prayed over her hair, that the one it will go to will feel like a true princess when they get their new hair. It was a moment I will never forget. I am so proud and so blessed with the gift of Emma.
And, to top it all off, that same day she lost her front tooth! All in one day, our sweet baby girl became such a big, grown-up girl!
She is amazing and we love her so much.
Be blessed this day.

19 Ways to Maintain a Healthy Level of Insanity:

2007-12-01T23:01:00.000-06:00

You may have already seen this, but David and I are laughing so hard right now! I had to share!
1. At lunch time, sit in your parked car with sunglasses on and point a hand held hair dryer at passing cars. see if they slow down.
2. page yourself over the intercom. don't disguise your voice.
3. every time someone asks you to do something, ask if they want fries with that?
4. put your garbage can on your desk and label it "in".
5. put decaf in the coffee maker for 3 wks, once everyone has gotten over their caffeine addictions, switch to espresso.
6. in the memo field of all your checks, write "for sex".
7. finish all your sentences with "in accordance with the prophecy"
8. don't use any punctuation
9. as often as possible, skip rather than walk.
10 order a diet water whenever you go out to eat with a serious face.
11 specify that your drive-thru order is "to go".
12 sing along at the opera.
13 go to a poetry recital and ask why the poems don't rhyme.
14 put mosquito netting around your work area and play tropical sounds all day.
15 five days in advance, tell your friends you can't attend their party b/c you're not in the mood.
16 have your coworkers address you by your wrestling name, "rock bottom"
17 when the money comes out the atm machine, scream " i won, i won!"
18 when leaving the zoo, start running towards the parking lot, yelling "run for your lives, they're loose!!
19 tell your children over dinner. "due to the economy, we are going to have to let one of you go."

Thankful...

2007-11-26T15:54:00.000-06:00

Pure Sugar

2007-11-12T15:18:00.000-06:00

Do you guys think it is ok that my children are breaking open ALL of the Pixy Stix in their Halloween bags and pouring them into their little mouths????

I may be regretting this "sweet" moments in about 30minutes. Until then, it's nothing but pure sugar for them!!

(And I want EVERYONE to notice Jacob's attire...it is one of Emma's swimsuits!)

Please Join Me in Praying for Mary Grace...

2007-11-07T21:11:00.000-06:00

To the right under "Please Pray For" is the name Mary Grace. Please go to her site and as the Lord leads you, pray for her and her sweet family.

Hebrews 4:16
"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

LIFE

2007-11-05T20:06:00.000-06:00

Life is so good. God has blessed us abundantly with Emma and Jacob.
Enjoy a glimpse into our day!

"Children are a gift from God, they are His reward."

1 Timothy 5:6-10

2007-11-04T08:17:00.000-06:00

A good word for me:

1 Timothy 5:6-10

"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."

Halloween at The Campbells

2007-11-02T07:58:00.000-05:00

This was my favorite Halloween with the kids. In our neighborhood, there are TONS of kids and everyone gets involved in the festivities. It was such a fun night, full of characters, popcorn balls, candy and tired little legs. Jacob said that his bag of candy was so heavy that it made is legs hurt...and that was after going down just one street!
Enjoy the pictures!

Read This Right Now:)

2007-10-28T21:38:00.000-05:00

Goodness...you have got to go here to see if you are a charismaniac!

Have a great day!!

Martha Stewart, I am not

2007-10-17T15:22:00.000-05:00

I see from the poll that someone roasts the pumpkin seeds from their pumpkins. I need to know how to do this:) Emma wants to do this at home, as Thursday they are going to roast the seeds from the pumpkin they carved on Tuesday. Can you help me? I am really good at following instructions, I just need them:)
Thanks in advance!!!

Welcome Trevin Matthew Kersey to the World!!

2007-10-16T21:03:00.001-05:00

Our sweet friends, Kristi and Michael Kersey, had their little baby boy on Monday. Please, check them out here.
Congratulations Michael and Kristi!! He is a cutie!

David Vacuums and Cleans and Makes my Day

2007-10-06T09:58:00.000-05:00

So, this morning my amazing husband made everyone breakfast. EVERYONE. Without anyone asking him to. He just did it because he loves us. Then, he got the vacuum out and started vacuuming. UPSTAIRS. My least favorite place to vacuum is the stairs and Upstairs. It is a difficult task hauling that thing up each step as I vacuum the ones ahead. But he did it. Without my asking and without any hesitation. THEN, he called Emma up to her room. The two of them cleaned her room in complete harmony. Unlike when I force, I mean try, to get Emma to clean her room. She was actually excited about cleaning her room. I was in disbelief. After her room was completely picked up, he sent her down to get Jacob while her sweet daddy vacuumed her room. Jacob and David then proceeded to clean his room...which was not as destroyed due to his crazy tendencies to pick up his room before he goes to bed. It's awesome, rare-but awesome. Then all three of them cleaned the playrooms. They were then vacuumed. And life, my friends, is very good. It is soooo the little things that make my day. My day had been made...(Which reminds me, David also made the bed this morning!)

Campbell Happenings

2007-10-03T08:07:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since my last post. So many wonderful things have happened lately in our lives. The kids have started school again, giving me three glorious hours to myself on Thursdays. Emma is in heaven at school. She loves her friends and adores her teachers. She is full of excitement going to school and returning home as she shares stories of her day. I love that about her. Jacob, well he is another story. I have learned that if I am the first to drop him off he is fine. If I am a teen-tiny bit later, there are crying kids at the door and he doesn't want to be left out:) Actually, last week he went in happily even as another child was crying. Progress:)

A couple of weeks ago our little family went to the Hyatt Resort Lost Pines. Look it up people. Go there with your family and enjoy every minute of it. It was so fun, and I am so glad we decided to take the kids. I can't imagine being there without them! There were many activities during the day. There was a perfect pool area for kids, playgrounds, an area full of bikes of all sizes. At night they have two large fire pits for...S'MORES! Yummy. They also have a movie theater and were playing Monsters Inc. We tried, but if you know our children (mostly Emma) if there is a "bad" character a movie or a book has no chance with us. We were out after about 10minutes. Anyway, great place and we will be back!

Have a beautiful Wednesday!

The day Copeland met Jesus face to face...

2007-09-26T19:46:00.000-05:00

Little Copeland met Jesus today. Please lift her family up when God brings them to mind. If you want to read about their precious life, and how they are glorifying our sweet Jesus even through their heaviest trials, please go to the right and click on "Copeland".
May they be blessed as they are singing God's praises in the midst of one of their most trying times.

Please Pray for Copeland and her parents

2007-09-20T15:54:00.000-05:00

A friend of a friend had this on her blog the other day. I have followed this sweet family since. Please pray for this baby girl and her precious family as she nears the magnificent meeting of her heavenly Father. I cannot imagine.
I can't figure this out, so please go to my list and find "Copeland".
Love,
Keri

Playdate

2007-09-10T14:06:00.000-05:00

Are playdates for the kids or the moms? I am pretty sure they are just as much for mommies as the kids. I love having friends come over with their little ones. It is great to chat and discover the similarities that motherhood brings. It is also interesting to see the kids in different stages of life.
Today we had a fun playdate with Brittani, Park, Sunni and Ava. I am so thankful these ladies live near me! They are awesome and full of great information.:) They know of some great places to get fun, more importantly inexpensive, things for your home. We MUST go shopping soon!
Thanks girls for coming over with your beautiful children. I truly am so thankful that God placed you so close to me.
Children are such a blessing and we are thankful for the added blessing of playdates!

Lose Yourself

2007-08-24T23:06:00.000-05:00

Ok, you have to copy this and paste it to your browser. May seem like a lot of trouble, but you will thank me when it's over.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz06v09J4-Q

Wordless Wednesday

2007-08-22T21:46:00.000-05:00

I LOVE my Kids!!

2007-08-20T15:17:00.000-05:00

I love my kids. I love all the unique~ness of each of them.

I love that, before bed, if Jacob finds ANY of Emma's things in his room he grabs it all and promptly goes to throw it in Emma's.

I love that every night as we are leaving Emma's room, she flashes me the "I Love You" sign and says, "I love you and Goodnight!". Every night. I love it.

I love the way she seems so grown up by her vocabulary and mannerisms, but looks so very tiny in her big bed.

I love that she will still occassionally as us to hold her in public. She is growing up, but still so young.

I love that Jacob absolutely has to have me hold him when we are crossing the street. Somehow, by the Grace of God, fear of the street is in him. I am glad for that.

I love that Jacob runs through our house with Emma's dress~up heels on and tells me that he is Cinderella. I

love that he also can dribble a soccer ball like a true professional.

I love that Emma has hazel eyes and Jacob's are the bluest blue, and that they both have beautiful sand~colored hair.

I love that when we go out to eat, on occassion, people have stopped by our table to tell me how well mannered our children are. (If you have children, you know why I love that so much!)

I love that they adore little babies. They can't keep their little hands off of them...I see that as a good thing and not a bad one. I foresee Emma being the perfect little mommy and Jacob being the greatest dad.

I love that Jacob's laugh can make the hardest day ever the most treasured day ever. His laugh is contagious I promise. I dare you to listen to it and not find yourself joining in.

I love that Emma has a love for people. I love that when she meets a stranger she will later ask me if I think they know Jesus. I love what God is doing in her heart.

I love that both of my children can tell you the capitol of Alabama and Alaska, along with state birds and that Alabama has iron and steele as natural resources and that Alaska is the biggest state. (Those are the only two states we have learned so far, but they were truly learned!)

I love that Emma loves school and that Jacob seems fearful. His fear reminds me that he is comfortable at home and that he is still so very new at this "life" thing.

I love that they are both napping at this very moment.

I love that as I read my bible this morning, Emma asked me what I was learning from it.

I love that Jacob can sing all the songs from "Diego" and "WonderPets".

I love that both Emma and Jacob love to read.

I love that both Emma and Jacob love to paint.

I love that Emma finds great joy in helping her brother do certain tasks like unbuckle his seat belt, put the straw in his juice bag, wash his hair, change his clothes, tell him big boys go poopie in the potty, get on his swing and take care of baby dolls.

I love that when Jacob wakes up he cries...moreover, what I love is that when I ask him why he is crying he always says, "want you, mommy."

I love that God has provided a way for me to stay home with these children and experience these things everyday for myself.

I love that because of Emma and Jacob (and David of course!) I have had one of the best summers ever!

What did I do to deserve these little gifts? Some days I feel so unworthy. They are so incredibly dear to my heart and I don't want to mess up as a mom. I know I will as I am human, but it breaks my heart to think about it. God is so Good to bless us with Emma and Jacob. I pray these little ones will be established in righteousness(Isaiah 54: 13) and find their confidence not in David or me, but in God(Psalm78:7). They are true blessings.

Can you see her flashing the "sign"?

I've Been Tagged!

2007-08-07T21:27:00.000-05:00

I've been tagged by the beautiful Mrs. Kersey...thanks Kristi!

The Rules:
1. Post the rules
2. List 8 random facts or habits about yourself.
3. If you are tagged, then you must Post the rules and list 8 random facts or habits about yourself.
4. After you post, tag 8 people and let them know they must read your blog for the rules.

1. Apparently I am allergic to EVERYTHING outside in the state of Texas! Last Tuesday, I had the equivalent of one year's worth of shots in ONE day! (I "qualified" for this because my allergies and asthma are bad.)

2. I have had about 5 concussions. One severe, leaving me in the Stephenville hospital for about one week. Go on say it, "Now we know what happened to you!". I was the only girl in our family until my cousin Lara was born when I was 18. Growing up, I did what the boys did! (I paid for it too!)

3. I LOVE medical stuff. I was a retinal surgeon's assistant before having our beautiful children and I absolutely loved my job. I worked beside an incredible, God loving doctor and it was a complete blessing everyday. I want to go back when the kids go to school!

4. I am addicted to Dr. Pepper, Coke and Sweet Tea. I can't get enough. There have been times when I decide I am going to stop...and I do, but eventually I hit the goods again. It's just good stuff to me.

5. I went to Brazil for 2weeks on a mission trip and that is the furthest I have ever been from home. Trip was great fascinating. The people were amazing. They had nothing, literally nothing but Jesus. The smiles on their faces were worth all the diamonds in the world. They have the joy of Jesus. The richest joy there is.

6. I have fear issues that should have me in counseling. Not sure why I am not. I am afraid of tons of things. Rational, irrational, you name it and it is probably a fear of mine. Since I have had children this fear has only heightened.

7. I knew I was going to marry David when I got home from our first date. I was living with my Granny. She stayed up until I got home. When I walked in the door and sat down, she said, "Well?" and I replied, "I just went on my first date with my future husband!" We laughed and giggled until late at night...7months later David and I were engaged!

8. The Coke bottle glasses that the others have talked about? Me too. Thick ones. Since the age of 5. Ugh. No way possible to look cute with Coke bottle glasses and buck teeth that look 20 times too big. Sad.

That is it! Hope that was fun...Heather, Kim, Brittani and Jesika~ You're it!!!

What a two-year-old boy thinks is cute:

2007-08-03T15:32:00.001-05:00

We just got in from swimming. Aaahhhh, the joys of the bright hot sun, the brilliant blue water and the smell of sunscreen on your children's bodies. I love it. I love summer.
When we got in Jacob told me that he had to go "tee-tee". He is trying and doing a very good job at potty training. He went, got his four M&M's and then went to get a new pull-up for himself. I went into my bedroom to change out of my swimsuit. I hear Jacob say, "oh, this is not a new one." Hmmm, I wonder what he meant? I continue to get dressed, then find Jacob in the kitchen saying, " ooohhh, you are soooo cuuuute!" My friends, he is talking to the tiniest little poop ball that is on our kitchen floor. Apparently, he put on a new pull-up, pooped in it, put that one in the trash, and got another one all in the short time I was changing my clothes. And there was an escapee...a very tiny, "cute" escapee. It was funny. And not so cute to me:)
Have a great day!

Cottage...Mmmmm

2007-08-01T15:39:00.000-05:00

I love the "cottage" look. I even like the word "cottage". I have added some links to the blog that have great cottage finds and homes. Take a look if you get the chance. A nice gift for your eyes, if this is your thing. Great places to get some ideas. If anyone wants to go Flea Marketing at any given time to look for a fantastic find, just call me...I'll be ready!

Wordless Wednesday

2007-07-18T22:23:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2007-07-11T14:08:00.001-05:00

Budget

2007-07-11T13:36:00.000-05:00

Do you ladies have a budget system in your home? Do you like it? Well, we have been doing the envelope system for a a while now. I did not want to do it. I felt like I would be "enslaved to the budget" as I not-so-submissively told my sweet husband. I mean, I have plans for how we are going to spend our money. We just bought a house in March and there are things that I "NEED" to do. But I have been doing it now for quite a while...and I like it. It has actually given me much more freedom. David has been sooo good to make an envelope for EVERYTHING. Like, I have a "play money" envelope. With that, I can take the kids to various places during the week without feeling like I am spending too much and dealing with the guilt. When the envelope is empty, as it is right now:), I know that we can't do anything "extra" until we get paid again. It has made me so much more disciplined with our money. Before the budget, I wouldn't even make a list to go grocery shopping. Who needs a list? Aren't you supposed to just stroll down every aisle and throw whatever you think you need at that moment into your cart? I guess not. That way gets you into a little shock when the person at the check-out tells you your total. Wow...groceries can be expensive. Now, I have a list. I haven't clipped coupons yet, but the list is a start for me. I try to beat the budget. It is kind of like a game for my overly competitive mind. And the "stuff" for our house? Well, when you stick to the budget there are monies left over:) It may take longer than I would like to have our house look like it does in my mind, but I am sure it will be worth it when it gets there.
A budget, seemingly bonding, but oh so freeing!

2007-07-10T14:56:00.000-05:00

Thank you God that we live in a country where we are free. Thank you that we can talk openly about You, read our Bibles without fear of getting arrested, and go to church not worrying about our lives ending. Thank you God, for all the men and women who have fought and continue to fight for our country. Thank You, for placing my family and me here. Happy Fourth of July!

Emma's Belated Birthday Blog...

2007-07-06T14:01:00.000-05:00

Sweet Emma,

You are a dream. You amaze your daddy and me with your mind. You understand so much about this world that we are still trying to comprehend as adults. Your faith is beautiful. We dream of having such faith in God like you do. You are loved by all who meet you. You do not know a stranger. If there is someone around that you have never met, you are quick to greet them and ask them about their life...and ask them if they know Jesus. Beautiful.

God made you with the prettiest "sand" colored hair. You want it to be as long as your friend Miriam's...her's is "so long it touches her bottom". Your sweet eyes are a perfect hazel. You change your clothes about five times a day. Probably just a glimpse of what life will be like when you are a teenager. Speaking of which, you can't wait to be a teenager! If you see an older child you always ask me if they might be a teenager. You tell me quite often, that you dream of being a mommy just like me. That makes me smile from my eyes to my toes! Being your mommy is one of the greatest dreams come true! You love your brother with a love like no other. When he wakes up in the morning, YOU are the one he wants to see first. Not mommy or daddy, he wants to know where YOU are:) You are so loved by everyone in this family and I hope you truly feel it. We are so extremely blessed to have shared the last 4 years with you and we can not wait to see how God blesses us with you in the years ahead. We love you Emma Campbell!!

Audrey, Sarah, Emma and Miriam...the girls quickly took off all party attire and got into their swimsuits!Cutie Reid with pink baby stroller...he will be a great dad!Lauren, this is Emma's Favorite gift! She loves it!Sarah having a little fun with the spray toy.
They look like they are up to something!

This is just funny...Sarah running through the water.

See Miriam's long hair? It is beautiful!

Our little dare-devil...he has no fear!

It's been a while...

2007-07-03T15:00:00.000-05:00

Holy moley, is that how you spell that expression? I haven't updated in a while. This will be random, but if you are even looking at this blog it will at least be new:)

Our summer is going great. Well, great if you like rain! What is up with all of it? I do feel bad for the kids at times because this whole summer has been spent indoors. We are getting creative, and I have a few pictures to show off my kids' talent. They are super sweet and growing right before our eyes.

We usually go to Michael's on Thursday mornings. If you haven't done this, I strongly suggest it. It is fun and it is cheap. They have a craft time called "Tater Tots" and it is $2 per child. They provide all the materials and the "know-how". Our kids have really enjoyed it. (See the Spoonimals below. They are one of their favs!)

Tuesdays have been at the Southlake movie theater. My sweet friend Jan, that I still need to give money to...don't worry Jan I WON'T forget, got tickets to the Summer Movie Camp. It was $5 for 10 movies. They show "kid friendly" movies, however use your own discretion. Last week was Ice Age 2. There is a part in the movie when they are saying "a**". I wasn't paying much attention as to why, but then they were saying, "your momma's an a** , father's an a**..." When some kids behind us started mimicking, I thought we should leave. BUT, I didn't. I stayed and subjected our kids to the muck. I never know where the line is. Well, I say that, but I felt the "Line" tugging at my heart and ignored it. Why do I do that?

A few weeks back we went to San Antonio with hopes of going to Sea World. The Friday that we arrived, Emma threw up in line to ride a River boat. She felt hot and it was not looking good. I wonder why kids always get sick after hours, on the weekend or on vacation? hmmm. Our room had two beds and the kids wanted to sleep together. They did for about 5minutes, then Jacob was begging for the little portable crib that the hotel brought us. That boy does not play around when his sleep is concerned! We skipped Sea World the next day (Emma threw up again that morning and we did not want to get her in the heat all day), we went to the outlet stores in San Marcos. We really did have a great time just hanging out with each other. I am so blessed to have a great family that I love and that I enjoy hanging out with.

We had Emma's birthday and I will post another entry on that. It was fun...chaotic, but fun.

I guess that is all for now. Sorry for the random-ness! Be glad you got a new entry!

Hotel in San Antonio

Dinner kinda on the River...right before Emma threw up:(

David and Jacob at dinner...silly boys!

Emma making a silly face because it is raining AGAIN! (she is in her swimsuit!)

2007-06-04T15:39:00.001-05:00

Go here: http://www.lproof.org/weekly_devotional.asp everyday if you don't currently have a bible study. Here is what it says today. Dwell on God's word. Pray it for your life. I am, for my own.

The Judgment QuestionScripture Reading: Luke 9:51-56; 23:26-34
Today’s Treasure: “When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, ‘Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?’ But Jesus turned and rebuked them” (Luke 9:54-55).

James and John asked Jesus if He wanted them to call down fire from heaven and destroy a Samaritan village that did not welcome Him. They remind me of two little boys holding their popguns, jumping up and down pleading: “Let me shoot! Let me! Let me!” The difference is, this was no game. They wanted to call down the fire of God. They were eagerly asking for permission to be agents of massive, irreversible destruction. Nothing is more permanent or terrifying than the destruction of the lost. We ought to be scared to death to wish such a thing on anyone. Eternity is a long time. Even when punishment comes to the terribly wicked, we are wise to remember with deep sobriety, humility, and thankfulness that only grace saves us from a like sentence.
We know this world is filled with wickedness. As Christ’s present-day disciples, we will no doubt be offended when people reject the Savior as the Samaritan village did that day. God’s desire, however, is for us to pray for His mercy, His Spirit’s conviction, and their repentance rather than their judgment. Christ said even of those who hammered the nails into His flesh, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (John 23:34).
God is indeed the righteous judge. When Christ returns, those who rejected Him will literally cry to the mountains, “‘Fall on us!’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us!’” (Luke 23:30). Judgment is coming, but may the thought of it cause us to weep, plead, and pray. Never boast or feel satisfaction. Only one thing stands between us and the lost: a blood-stained cross.
No matter how common this attitude is, it is terribly offensive to Christ. May we humble ourselves before Him, repent, and daily choose to lay down the albatross of our own egos.

Oh, God, give us a longing—not for the sin of this world to be judged—but for the sinners of this world to be forgiven. Give me the passion to pray for the salvation of the lost. Thank You for having mercy on my soul and for saving me from the destruction I deserve because of my sin. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Warm House

2007-05-21T21:05:00.000-05:00

Thanks to our friends Stephanie and Doug Stanley, our house is now warm! They gave us a housewarming party and it was so wonderful. God has blessed us beyond measure and one area of blessing is most definitely our friends and family. Thank you to all that warmed our house for us. It was fun and it will be a sweet memory for us many years from now.
I did not get many pictures as I was visiting with everyone. Here are a few:

Me, Heather and Jesika...Best Friends Forever!!

The cute Hoyts:)

Sweet TomblinsNeal and Cindy, our awesome new neighbors!Doug and David...a little too close for David's comfort!Stephanie and me. Stephanie you are amazing and I am so thankful you put this day together for us!Chris and David...we can't wait to be neighbors to the Praters!!Beautiful Jennifer and Jessica

What's in your Garden?

2007-05-16T13:24:00.000-05:00

This is Rageddy Anne. She and Raggedy Andy live in our hanging basket.

Typical pointy leaf bush. Ouch.

I think this is a Petunia.

I think this is too.

My new favorite flower, it reminds me of buttered popcorn. It has been so good to me...totally easy to care for.

My Precious Treasure

2007-05-14T14:56:00.000-05:00

So in trying to attain more of God, I am reading "Biblical Exegesis" by John Piper. It is good. It is not always easy, but it is aiding me in my understanding of scripture. I always find it interesting when people who rarely read their bible try to give their own "account" of what a verse, passage, or book truly means. I want to know the Truth. I will get more of It by knowing what the Word really says. The preface of "Biblical Exegesis" is interesting to me.

"John Wesley once said, 'I have thought I am a creature of a day, passing through life as an arrow through the air. I am a spirit come from God, and returning to God, just hovering over the great gulf, till a few moments hence, I am no more seen; I drop into a unchangeable eternity! I want to know one thing---the way to heaven, how to land safe on that happy shore. God himself has condescended to teach the way; for this very end He came from heaven. He has written it down in a book. O give me that Book at any price, give me the Book of God!'
This Book has been costly. Martyrs wrote it and others have suffered intensely for their faithfulness to it. The book has been preserved and passed down through painstaking efforts. It has been translated into the vernacular of thousands of peoples, sometimes at the costs of life, not to mention time, energy and money.
This Book is a 'treasure chest of holy joy'. It is from this Book that we learn what the apostles taught concerning the ultimate sacrifice of the Son of God. It's from this Book that we learn about the supremacy of God in all things. It is from this Book that we learn about what our sovereign and good Father requires of us, His dependent children...
Because the Bible alone is the inerrant, infallible authority for what we are to believe about God and how He wants us to live, it is no surprise that we bring a lot of baggage to the text. By nature, we don't like the thought of absolute authority residing in anyone outside of ourselves. What if God commands me to do something I don't want to do? Or, what if He portrays Himself in a way that differs from the way I think He should be? This would lead to a tremendous pressure to import our own meanings into the text rather than content ourselves with the author's intended meaning wherever it leads us.
Thus, we need three things to be careful interpreters of the Word of God. First, we must admit that we need help and that we will die without it. Left to ourselves, and our own unaided human reason, we-are-hopeless. We need revelation from above. Our eternal life hangs on this! Secondly, we need faith in the sovereign goodness of the Author. This faith not only frees us to go where the Bible leads us, but it impels us to go where the Bible leads us. Thirdly, we need to learn how to read with the kind of care that corresponds to the preciousness of the Book."

I know that was long, but for me it was really revealing. The Word of God is in my home, sits in many places in this house. Sometimes unopened for days. A precious treasure here for me to find. I pray I treat it as such. My precious Treasure, may I find more of You!

Did someone say "Spray Park"?

2007-05-11T23:11:00.000-05:00

So, this morning I was taking the kids for a walk and our final destination was going to be our neighborhood park. Well, there is the funnest little spray park very close to this park. The kids took one look at all of the kids playing and screaming with laughter and they were done. So we hiked back to our house, loaded up a little cooler, put on our sunscreen and swimsuits and headed to the water! Our kids had so much fun. That, my friends, is our newest hang~out. If you can't find us on a sunny day, we will be there! Enjoy the pictures:) I will also add some pictures from Emma's Birthday Blessing at school. At chapel, their sweet director prays a special prayer for the children on their birthday. Emma will turn four June 5th, so the last chapel included all the summer birthdays. It is always so sweet and Emma loved it.

Sweet fun.

So excited I think she is gonna burst!

Emma and Jacob's new friend.

The look on his face is just funny to me!

Jacob and Emma going to school

Emma's Birthday Blessing

2007-04-29T07:47:00.000-05:00

My week went by ever-so-slowly. David was out of town from Monday until Thursday night. If you know us, you know that this was very difficult for both of us. We are that sappy married couple that can't get enough of each other. We love our time together and do not love our time apart. So, Monday he went with me to drop Emma off at school and then Jacob and I took him to the airport. Jacob cried. I am not sure if he understood what was going on or if he was just feeding off of my emotions. Airport departures are so sad for me!

Skip over to Thursday. David tried to catch an earlier flight home. Could not. My sister-in-law and David's brother have twin boys just one month younger than Jacob. They were in a little program with their Mother's Day Out and it was hilarious! Little two-year-olds on a stage are always funny. When you know them, they seem 100 times funnier! It was the cutest thing. David sent me a text saying that I would have to add another 20 minutes to his arrival time. That put us at 9:30. Ugh, our kids crash by 8:30. And when I say "crash" I mean they can go totally ballistic and act like the bad kids you see screaming in store or restaurant.They like their schedule. So, we had dinner and visited with my Granny and then picked David up at around 10:00.( Yes, later than they told him he would be landing in Dallas.) We had made a Welcome Home sign and Emma was so eager to hold it up for him. Jacob was out like a light.
Yesterday we went riding bikes with my cousin Lance, his wife Angela, and their daughter Avery. We have a bike trailer/stroller and David lugged all the kids in that thing! It was funny. Our kids love the trailer, but it was Avery's first time. She cried all the way to the park. Poor kid. I wish I had a picture of all of them in the trailer!
Today is Sunday and we will have our sweet homegroup tonight. They are such a blessing and we just love our group. We will be bringing the salad and bread tonight, so wish me luck with preparing the salad. Cooking/making food for large groups of people kinda stresses me out.
I am sorry this is boring! I will post some pictures that Emma took a couple weeks ago. She loves the other side of the camera as well!!

Happy Sunday!

Below are this Friday's Roses. A very pretty orange color!

Emma's Photo#1

Emma's Photo#2

Emma's Photo #3

Emma's Photo #4

Our Welcome Home sign for David:)

Fabulous Weekend

2007-04-21T21:42:00.000-05:00

Fabulous Weekend!! Let me just say that we have had the best weekend ever and it is only Saturday! Friday we introduced the kids to the magical experience of a carnival. Emma has been saying, "when the carnival comes back to town...I AM GOING!" over and over! They LOVED it, and surprisingly rode many rides. I rode a ferris wheel for the first time. I was scared. I am thankful that the power did not go out while we were at the top...which it did several times after we got off!! Holy Cow, I would have grabbed my kids and my husband and shimmied down to safety somehow. I have little faith in the workers that were at this particular carnival and I know I could have made it down before anyone ever knew the power was out. Seriously, I don't think some of the workers even knew...

Also, you will find a picture of one of my Friday roses! They are a beautiful color and I can't wait for them to bloom!

Lastly, tonight at church we had a guest speaker, Ben Stuart. David really admires this guy and I proceeded to embarrass my husband and tell Ben. It was a great message and if anyone is reading this and thinking about not going to church because Matt is not there...you will soooo miss out if you don't go!

May tomorrow be as great as Friday and today!!

Here we are on the spinning dinosaur ride.

Pure Joy!

Sweet Emma with her sweet Daddy on the Ferris Wheel.

(why did I capitalize ferris wheel?)

(ok, this is funny. I did a spell check because I can't stand misspelled words. It said "ferris" was wrong because it need to be capitalized! Did you know this?!?)

Incredible scenery! Can you smell the funnel cakes?Mmmmmm!

Jacob looks just like David!

Emma and Jacob about to encounter their first carnival!!

My beautiful roses!

2007-04-20T07:43:00.000-05:00

Of Benjamin he said,
“The beloved of the Lord dwells in safety.The High God [1] surrounds him all day long,and dwells between his shoulders.”

Deuteronomy 33:12

The NIV puts it this way:

"About Benjamin he said: "Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in Him, for He shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between His shoulders."

2007-04-19T15:13:00.000-05:00

Emma loves this verse, and I do too. May God give me the faith to store up these words in my heart remembering them throughout my many fears. He is good. He is faithful. He is God.

I am His.

Deuteronomy 31:6
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."

Happy Taco Tuesday!

2007-04-17T18:41:00.000-05:00

This will probably be the most random and boring post ever! Every Tuesday we go to Rosa's for tacos. "Tuesdays were made for Tacos!" That is something our family looks forward to. So, below is a picture of the family before devouring our tacos.
You will also find a picture of our son standing on his stool. Clad only in a diaper and his sandals, he is pushing the buttons of our coffee maker. I was wondering about a week ago why that clock was off all the time. Now, we know.
And lastly, there is a photo of my Friday roses after they bloomed. They really are much prettier than the picture allows. (These pictures are not in order of description...sorry!)
Have a Happy Taco Tuesday!

Jacob changing the time on the coffee maker. We had no clue he was doing this!

How my Friday Roses look on Tuesday!

Our Family. Poor Jacob, he was ready for some TACOS!

Emma's Prayer to "Die Quickly"

2007-04-14T21:05:00.000-05:00

Ok, David and I are dying laughing right now. This may be our final blog.:)

Emma blessed our food tonight at dinner and prayed that God would, " Let us die quickly". We have recently had a horrible storm and with Easter and talking about Jesus dying on the cross for us, we have had MUCH talk about death lately. We have shared Philippians 1:21 "For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." She loves verses like that, and rightfully so. I don't want anyone to think that I disagree with the girl. I can't wait for the moment when I meet Jesus face to face.
She has a beautiful outlook on death. It is just a little shocking when you are about to eat and your three year old asks to bless the food...and in doing so asks to "die quickly."

Mark10:13 And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” 16 And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them."

2007-04-13T19:07:00.000-05:00

"I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth." Genesis 9:13 "I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh. And the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh." Genesis 9:15

2007-04-13T15:37:00.000-05:00

I have been blessed to call David Campbell my husband. I don't know what I have done to deserve such a man. He has more patience than I could ever have...which is much needed living with me! He is God loving, handsome, sweet, quiet, smart, encouraging, an incredible father, protector, provider, and I could go on forever. Well, every Friday he comes home with beautiful roses for me.Just a little something that tells me that he is thinking of me on his way home.
I thought it would be neat to share them with you. I hope you enjoy seeing a piece of God's creation every Friday!

2007-04-12T13:37:00.000-05:00

Emma has a sweet friend from school named Sarah. She and her sweet mom and sister invited us to a fun playdate today. We went to First Baptist Grapevine Church. They have a place called Paradise Pond. It is so fun, filled with great stuff like a huge bounce house, dress-up section, big tubes and slide, grocery store section and more. The kids had a great time....oh, and did I mention it is free?

Click here for directions and hours: http://www.fbcvine.org/

Very fun! Thank you Joy for inviting us!! We MUST go again!

Here are some pics of the day:

Hannah and the stick horse

Joy and Sarah

Jacob with a cowboy hat and horse

Emma with her wings on

Jacob on a motorcycle toy

Emma on the see-saw

2007-04-10T13:43:00.000-05:00

There are times when God teaches me a lesson through my children. Here is a glimpse of the most current. Emma will ask repeatedly for something. After a "yes" has been given, she continues to ask. Does she really doubt that I will not hold true to my word? Have I ever said "yes" in the past only to turn it into a "no"? ( I will admit that there have been times that I wanted to do this!) This is soooo what I do to God. His promises are given to me and continually I ask and I ask and I ask and I ask. His Word is faithful and never-changing, yet I doubt and I feel the need to ask and "remind".
I pray for a heart that simply trusts. A confidence that His Word is true and will not fail.
I pray that my sweet children learn this early in life. That they won't have to doubt and wrestle and go through all the yuck,.But, as many of us know, that may be the only way they grow to understand His great love. To doubt, to wrestle, to go through all the yuck...finding in the end, God has loved them through it all. His promises never change. His love never fails.
Psalm 119:50 "This is my comfort in my affliction,that your promise gives me life."
May we seek God and His promises through His Word. May He give us life.

2007-04-10T13:19:00.000-05:00

To my friends without children: It is 1:40 p.m. and I have just had my shower AND I was able to dry my hair.

To my friends with children: Isn't it a special little blessing when the kids are napping and you get a shower...and you get to dry your hair? A little "charge" to continue with the rest of the day.

Praise God for afternoon showers, complete with hair-drying!!

2007-04-09T10:35:00.000-05:00

What is with this cold weather? I can't wait for summer!! I know some people may think I am crazy to be wishing for summer in Texas, but I am. So is Emma. She despises long sleeves! We will have some pretty heated arguments about her having to wear a long sleeved shirt in 30degree weather. Poor thing! What a sad thing to argue about. Does anyone else have these situations with their 3-4 year old girls? Much drama in this house! From sleeves to ponytails, there is an opinion, and heaven forbid I say anything opposite of her strong opinion! Tears may come flowing from eyes that were just laughing in extreme silliness! I am already praying for the teenage years!!!
Jacob is soundly sleeping and in about 20 minutes I will have to wake him. We will go pick Emma up from school and then eat Macaroni and Cheese. That, my friends, is what she informed me she wanted for lunch, as she was eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for breakfast.

Macaroni and Cheese as promised!! (Notice the short sleeves:))
Jacob is happy with his lunch too!

2007-04-08T16:57:00.000-05:00

Emma and the bunny. Jacob was too scared...who can blame him??!

Emma, Avery and Jacob. Jacob is trying to make Avery
feel better!
Our Silly little girl!

Ready for church: Easter 2007

2007-04-08T16:22:00.000-05:00

Here I am. I have no idea what I am doing. I hate reading misspelled words...and I fear I will post them. I don't want to bore anyone, although our life is anything but boring. If anyone is interested, check in often and I will try my hardest to be a Proverbs 31 Wife, the best mommy on the planet and good friend to my friends...AND put life into words through this blog so that all can run this race with us. :)
Have a blessed day remembering our precious, Risen Jesus!

Keri