Random Ponderings of the Nitengales

Reflections on Christmas at the Nitengales

2011-12-26T17:15:00.003-05:00

I was sitting here sad, mad and very worn out from a long holiday weekend. Muttering under my breath that no one appreciated all I had done, that my kids were selfish and spoiled and that I was so glad is was over....when God knocked me in the head.

I read on Facebook that a friend from high school lost her precious daughter this morning - the day after Christmas - to a 4 year battle with cancer. My life could be so much worse!

Why do I let myself get into this funk every year at Christmas when I come off a great time of Thanksgiving in November? God is the greatest Father in the world and Christmas is the day we celebrate the birth of HIS son....yet here I was being selfish and spoiled because I didn't feel appreciated - I wonder what God thinks of how I treat HIM (probably the same way I was feeling).

Help me Father to set my eyes on you each day and not my circumstances!!

Thankful for the Reminder

2011-11-30T20:46:00.002-05:00

I'm thankful that I took this month to be thankful....for the reminders that the Nitengales are incredibly blessed beyond belief. Thank you God for putting this on my heart so that it would remind me to....

Count your blessings,

Name them one by one

Count your blessings

See what God has done.

Count your blessings

Name them one by one

Count your many blessings

See what God has done!

Thankful for Jesus

2011-11-29T20:30:00.001-05:00

I'm thankful that Jesus came to earth as a baby, lived a sinless life, willingly went to the cross to die for each of us and then on the third day arose again! I'm thankful HE is sitting in heaven taking my prayers and making them into something God better understands!!

Thank you Father for JESUS - my Lord and Saviour!!!

Thankful for Many Things I take for Granted

2011-11-28T20:27:00.002-05:00

Running water

Heat

Flush toilets

Refrigeration

Microwaves

Washer & Dryers

Vacuums

Dependable Cars

Electricity

Diet Pepsi

Chocolate

I think it's important to be thankful for even the smallest things - and Mary often reminds me of that.

So thank you God for the many things I forgot to list!!

Thankful for Passion

2011-11-27T19:36:00.002-05:00

I often wish that I wasn't as passionate about things....that I could adopt the attitude "Who cares?" about almost anything. And while I can about a few things - the things I'm passionate about are important. I'm thankful for passion for God and for His word to go forth in the world.

I'm thankful that I want with great passion my children to love God and serve Him. I know I'm not the best example but my passion for them to have passion for God is strong!

Thank you God for giving us passion for you and for other things in life. Help me to focus my passion on you!!

Thankful for Trails and Falling

2011-11-26T20:08:00.001-05:00

Today I ran a little over 7 miles on trails in Kent County. I fell and I smiled. It felt good to be on trails again and to be running with my friend Akiko. While I haven't been seriously injured, my knee and hip have been bothering me - probably due to high mileage and IT band issues.

Today nothing hurt while I ran and the trail felt great under my feet. I wasn't fast, but I had great conversation and if you don't get dirty running trail - have you really run on a trail?

I am thankful for trails in this great state we live in. I'm thankful for we can hike, walk, mountain bike and run in some of the most beautiful country ever right here in West Michigan.

I'm also thankful that after my many falls on trails this summer - I didn't seriously injure anything! Praise the Lord for that one!! HE was definitely watching over me this summer - because as a couple of my friends said "You got air on that one!"

Thankful for a Day in Greenville

2011-11-25T18:58:00.002-05:00

I'm thankful for a day where I didn't have to be anywhere or do anything at a certain time. The kids and I cleaned the basement, set up the MSU Christmas tree, walked a friend's dog, visited some other friends, had Dairy Queen ice cream, and did laundry. I actually feel like I accomplished much (and I didn't tie my kids up and gag them).

I'm thankful for a day off to slow down (some) and spend it at home - where many things needed my attention!!

Thank you God for giving us days at home!

Thankful for Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T18:37:00.002-05:00

I am thankful for Thanksgiving - the holiday that makes me stop to think about all the things I truly have to be thankful for. I'm thankful the Pilgrims made the trip for their freedom to worship as they wanted and that the first Thanksgiving was instituted.

I'm thankful for the traditions of Thanksgiving that help us to slow down, focus and make time for family and friends.

Thank you Father for Thanksgiving and the chance to be thankful!!

Thankful for Sandy

2011-11-23T18:00:00.001-05:00

I am so thankful for Sandy - our daycare provider. She has been a constant in John and Mary's life since they were little babies and continues to love on them and nurture them even now. She is a godly woman who is teaching them more about Jesus when they are with her and she disciplines and loves like a grandma to my kids.

Without Sandy - my going to work would be quite hard each day!! She is a true blessing to our family!!

Thank you God for Sandy!

Thankful for Missionary Friends

2011-11-22T21:35:00.001-05:00

I am thankful for our friends who are missionaries or are starting the process to be missionaries. While all of us can be a missionary where we live, it takes a special family to pick up their lives and move across the world.

Thank you to those who have felt God call and have followed his calling to become missionaries!!!

Thankful for Farmers

2011-11-21T21:01:00.003-05:00

I am thankful for those hard working individuals that provide me with all the things I love to eat!
I'm most thankful for my hard working husband and his parents, as well as our farmer friends who spend long hours working to make a living.

I am thankful that God created man to work the earth and that there are people who still do so for a profession. It is so easy to become disconnected from where our food comes from and we should never lose sight of those who grow what we put in our mouth!!

Thank you farmers - especially my handsome Farmer Jeff!!

Thankful for my Aunt

2011-11-20T07:24:00.003-05:00

I'm thankful for an aunt who never gave up on me. Almost every time I called she would bring up the Lord and how he was working and together we would reflect on HIS goodness.

She took wonderful care of my grandparents in their last days. She was my spirtual mentor and one of my best friends.

I'm thankful she was able to meet Mary - the little girl who shares her name. I'm also thankful that she is not forgotten easily by many! I'm not sure more than 2 days have gone by that I haven't wanted to pick up the phone and call her about something.

Thank you God for sharing her with me for as long as you did!

http://nitengales.blogspot.com/2009_11_01_archive.html

Thankful for Safety

2011-11-19T16:34:00.002-05:00

I'm thankful for safety on the road today as we surveyed on I-196 this morning. I often take for granted my cushy, safe desk job while my co-workers are out working among traffic and crazy drivers.

I'm thankful for each of the surveyors God has blessed me with as co-workers (Tim, Tony, Scott, Erick, Jeff, Greg and Ed). They are a great group of guys and I couldn't ask for better people to work with.

I thank God for protecting them day in and day out so that they can go home to their children and be the awesome Dad's they are too!!

Thankful for Friendship

2011-11-18T20:37:00.002-05:00

I'm thankful for friendship...both old ones and new ones. It's amazing how God puts people into your life at just the right time to encourage you, pick you up, cry with you or help you out.

I'm thankful for each of my friends - near and far!!

Thankful for Pizza

2011-11-17T20:59:00.003-05:00

Today I'm thankful for pizza - all kinds of pizza. Meat pizza, veggie pizza (without mushrooms), white pizza, BBQ chicken pizza - anything with a crust, sauce and of course toppings - including cheese!

I'm thankful God created the man or woman that came up with pizza!

Nothing tastes better than pizza the night before a race for me....and you know, a friend told me all the elite runners eat pizza the night before a race ;-)

Thankful for Heat

2011-11-16T21:09:00.004-05:00

I'm thankful for heat. What a blessing to come home after a somewhat blustery day and have a warm home. Heat is something many do not have in the winter and it's something I have taken for granted.

Thank you Father for the warmth of our home!!

Thankful for the Hope of Heaven

2011-11-15T09:12:00.004-05:00

As I have heard of the passing of three people I know (two of which I'm distantly related too), I'm thankful I have an eternal home in heaven.

What a blessing to know that one day I'll be walking side by side not only my grandparents and aunt, but also Jesus.

Thankful for John's School

2011-11-14T20:56:00.003-05:00

I am thankful for the chance to send John to a christian school near my work. While it is a lot more work for me each day to get him to school and pick him up, I also have the opportunity to work in his class which I wouldn't have if he went to school near our home.

I am thankful my place of employment is flexible and that the building I work in is separate from the rest of the company and John can come in, eat breakfast and leave without hardly anyone knowing he was even there.

I am thankful for his teachers and the love of Jesus he is being shown day in and day out at his school.

Thankful for Good Health

2011-11-13T15:45:00.002-05:00

Today I am thankful for my health and the health of my family. We are all pretty healthy people with infrequent trips to the doctor. For that I praise God!

Our health is something that we can so easily take for granted. Thank you God for making Jeff and I hearty stock, as well as John and Mary.

Thankful for my Running Friends

2011-11-12T13:01:00.004-05:00

Today I am thankful for a great group of people that I run with. They encourage me not only in running but in life. They are as diverse in their careers as they are in their pace, but they all laugh and have fun together.

Today I get to spend time with some of the ladies of the group - and I'm thankful to not only call them running partners, but to call them friends!!

Thankful for Veterans and Military

2011-11-11T06:50:00.005-05:00

Wow! 11-11-11 is a day to be thankful!

It is Veteran's Day and I am extremely thankful for all veterans and current duty servicemen and women. Withouth them our family would not have:

Freedom of religion

Freedom of speech

Right to bear arms

Right to vote

Right to own land

Without them, as a woman, I wouldn't be sitting where I am working freely and able to pursue happiness and an abundant life. I am thankful for the men and women who gave their lives not only for me to have these privileges but for others around the world to have them as well.

I am thankful for my dad - the man who talks very little about the war he served in. Thankful he went to Vietnam and served, thankful he came back and married my mom, thankful that he instilled in me patriotism and the courage to do the right thing. Thank you Dad for being a soldier and now a veteran!!

Thank you veterans, soldiers, soldier's wives and families for the great country we live in!!

Thankful for my Job

2011-11-10T20:38:00.004-05:00

I am thankful for my place of employment for the last 17 years. God put me in the right firm and has allowed me to stay there and find the "right" position for my talents and abilities.

I am thankful for the group of surveyors and engineers I work with day in and day out (even though some of them can cause me frustration at times).

What a privilege to work for a firm that allows me flexibility to be a mom and an employee! Thank you God for allowing me to use that degree in Civil Engineering that I worked so hard for and for letting me keep all the balls juggling in the air.

Thankful for Our Home

2011-11-09T18:07:00.003-05:00

Today I'm thankful for my home! I am thankful for the roof over my head, the heat from the furnace, the electricity to power everything and the fact that it is our little haven from the world. God has blessed us with this home for over 11 years. Jeff and I knew it was the one when we looked at it when were newly engaged.

I have a plaque at our house that sums it up "Our home is just a little house, but God knows where we live." But most importantly, our house is a house that serves the Lord!

Thankful for Being Able to Vote

2011-11-08T17:09:00.002-05:00

Thankful for the privilege of casting my vote today!! It is a blessing to live in a country where a man or woman can go the polls, fill in a circle and cast avote - all without much of a wait!

Father - please don't let me take that for granted during the upcoming election!! Thank you for the freedom I have to vote!

Thankful for Food

2011-11-07T18:22:00.003-05:00

I'm thankful for food - all kinds of food. It is amazing how we can easily take for granted that we can run to the store, to Taco Bell, to McDonald's, to anywhere within 5 miles and have something to eat. It is also amazing how I personally take for granted being able to feed my family each and every day and how I can grumble about having to cook something in my house - when there are so many around the world who go without.

While I can't send my children's leftovers to starving children in Ethiopia (as my parents would often say), I can remember who provides our food and be thankful each meal for that provision!

Thank you God for our food (and for the hard workers who grow it, harvest it, package it and sell it)!

Thankful for Our Church

2011-11-06T15:26:00.003-05:00

I'm thankful for our church - Calvary Baptist Church. It is a place to worship and grow as you learn more and more about God! It has been Jeff's church home his entire life and mine for the last 14 years. If you are in the Greenville, Michigan area - looking for a church to visit - check us out.

http://www.calvarygreenville.org/

Thankful for Jeff's Parents

2011-11-05T07:27:00.004-04:00

I am thankful for Jeff's parents. They raised a son who knows hard work and isn't afraid of it, but most importantly they raised Jeff to love God and serve Him. Jeff's parents still work with him on the farm (much too hard for a 70 year old and 68 year old) and have transitioned well into being the ones who listen to Jeff as he manages the day to day farm operations.

I am most thankful for their heritage of loving God and serving Him and pray that Jeff and I can show John and Mary that same heritage.

Thankful for My Parents

2011-11-04T09:57:00.003-04:00

I'm thankful for my parents. My mom and dad have been happily married for 43 years - through some major ups and downs in life. They continue to be my support and my rock when I need it.

My parents are always willing to help us out around our house with odd projects because they know how much Jeff works. They have watched the kids over and over again so I can go run crazy miles and this year they both were at the finish of my 50 mile race and the finish of my 40th birthday marathon! What great days those were.

Thank you God for blessing me with kind, caring and loving parents - willing to go the extra mile for anyone!! They have taught me that hard work and a generous spirit are important in life.

Thankful for Mary

2011-11-03T12:49:00.004-04:00

Perpetual motion - that is our Mary Lynn Nitengale!! She is constantly moving and constantly keeping us on her toes. She has more energy than any 3 1/2 year old I've met (including her brother at that age). She is both a mama's girl and a daddy's girl, but she is all girl - opting for a dress over a sweatshirt and jeans.

I'm so thankful for the joy and laughter she brings to our house. She is a jokester and can push the limits of our patience, but she is loved and treasured!!

Thankful for John

2011-11-02T21:17:00.003-04:00

I'm thankful for John Woodruff Nitengale! He was a prayed for and much awaited child! He is a treasure to our family. His sweet gentle spirit and heart bless me each day. John continues to grow by leaps and bounds and learns something new each day. He is a big help (when he wants to be)! The best thing is that John loves Jesus and loves to learn more and more about Jesus each day!!

Thankful for Jeff

2011-11-01T22:04:00.002-04:00

I'm thankful for Jeff, my best friend, my husband and the father of John and Mary. He is a blessing to me....such a hard worker and such an encouragement. He may think I'm crazy at times for running long races, but I know he is proud of me. He is always supportive and caring, and the best thing is he makes me laugh!!!

Big Adventure Recap

2011-09-22T12:22:00.008-04:00

This should have been written 3 weeks ago, but between John starting school and getting into the routine of that, I haven't had a chance to recap our last weekend of August.

The week leading up to my big 50 mile race was slightly chaotic. We had good friends over on Wednesday night. On Thursday, Jeff and John left along with another good friend for a three day hiking trip at Lake Superior Provencial Park. While I was off running 50 miles, Jeff and John hiked over 15 miles (which is quite an accomplishment for an almost 7 year old).

They hiked into Agawa Falls and saw some of God's beautiful creation!!

John's backpack weighed about 8 pounds (he weights 44 pounds) and Jeff carried about 40 pounds (I won't share what he weighs).
They had a great time together and really enjoyed camping and fellowship with Stephen (our good friend).

While they were gone, Mary and I had a girl's night on Thursday night - where she insisted I paint my toenails and fingernails bright pink. If you know me, this is out of character for my fingernails to be painted, but I gladly did so. We slept in on Friday and then I left about 2:30 to head to Manistee with my friend Cathy.

We got settled in our hotel, enjoyed pizza at a local establishment and wandered downtown Manistee before heading to bed to get some sleep.

Saturday morning found us at the race site plenty early and ready to go. I still couldn't believe I was going to run 50 miles. I was ready, I had trained and I could do this. We met up with my high school friend Akiko and the three of us were ready to get it done!

The marathoners took off and 20 minutes later we started. My friend Mark was going to be waiting at the start/finish to run the 2nd 25 mile lap with me, so that gave me something to think about and look forward too. I decided early in my training that I wasn't going to wear a watch and I didn't. I also had bright pink fingernails to keep me company!!

At about 3.5 miles in, I saw Ben (Cathy's son) and Anne (Cathy's sister) which was a nice surprise. Then shortly after that, I took a big fall and landed on my right hip and right shoulder. I got up and dusted myself off and away I went. At one point, someone around me said we were running 11 minute miles and I knew I needed so slow down some. I would take turns walking up hills and running down, but tried to run more than I walked for the first loop. At about mile 22, I asked someone what time it was and they said we had been running for around 5 hours and 10 minutes. I was so excited because I wanted to come through the 1/2 way point somewhere between 5 hours and 6 hours.

At the 1/2 way point, I changed shoes, socks and my shirt and took off with Mark leading. He would run, so I would run. Then we would walk up hills. We always ran down hills though. I was slightly discouraged between 26 and 30 miles, but about mile 30, we picked up another runner - Rachel. Having someone to encourage, encouraged and energized me and we kept moving forward. Some people passed me and then I would pass others.

Somewhere in the middle of the woods with 6 or 7 miles to go, I saw Rich and Dianne. What a great surprise and a big confidence booster to see people you know.

With about 4 miles to go, Ben met us and told me Cathy had finished in around 9:55 and Akiko had finished around 10:05. Thankfully Ben and Mark were there. I was having a little bit of stomach issues and then got really light-headed with a mile and half to go. I followed their instructions and kept moving forward. With 1/2 mile to go, Ben ran ahead to get Mary ready for the big finish.

Mark told me I couldn't cry till I finished and I didn't, but let me tell you - seeing my little Princess waiting for me beside my dad and mom - made it hard!!

I finished 50 miles in 12:25:18, which is slow compared to my friends that finished, but fast compared to so many other people. It was a big adventure and I can honestly say that other than about 4 miles, I really enjoyed myself and the people I was around.

My goal - to finish and to finish with a smile! ACHIEVED!!! This picture was taken at about mile 48.

Finish line with Mary
Summarizing the race with my crazy running friends - Cathy on the left and Akiko on the right.

They both were great encouragement and covered a lot of miles with me during training.It's amazing to me what you can accomplish when you put your mind to it! God gives us strength for each and every task set before us. And even better is that HE gives people to come along side you and share the journey! It's the people that make my Big Adventure one of the highlights of my life!!!

My Big Adventure

2011-08-25T16:25:00.006-04:00

The reason I started to run is John. I wanted to be healthy for my son and to be able to run and play with him. I was over 40 pounds overweight at his 1st birthday and would lay on the couch exhausted at the end of the day. I joined Weight Watchers, dropped 40 pounds and started running. Since then I have ran 6 marathons, 1 50K (31 miles) and numerous other races.

This Saturday (August 27th) I am running 50 miles!!! I have 14 hours to complete this race and plan to do so within that time limit. It has been amazing to see where running has taken me....Florida, Pennsylvania, Okalahoma, numerous trails and paved roads through Michigan.

Running gives me peace, a chance to clear my brain and physical release from the sometimes overwhelming day to day labor of being a working mom of two. Many have asked what I think about and I couldn't really say. Sometimes I plan my day, sometimes I make a grocery list, sometimes I sing while I run, but all the time I try to remember who has given me the ability to run - GOD! Without HIM holding my body together, I wouldn't be even attempting to run 50 miles.

I have been blessed to meet some great people while running that encourage me and are there to push me to run faster and further. I have renewed a high school friendship through running and she is also running this 50 mile race (my husband thinks the odds of two friends from the Class of 1990 at Tri-County High School running the same 50 mile race are pretty low).

I run because I love my family and my running makes me a better wife, mom and woman!! I sometimes feel guilty because I am away from my family during my long runs, but I always come back better prepared to tackle the day ahead or with a much better attitude and perspective. I hope to one day run races with John and Mary.

I'm off to run through the woods for 50 miles with many others who run for their own reasons, but we all have a common goal - the finish and finishing well. May that be also said of my walk with God....that I finish well!

Courtesy on the road and at home.....

2011-07-21T11:43:00.005-04:00

It's been an interesting week in the Nitengale's life.

On Saturday, there were two separate farm accidents involving farmers. In one a tractor hit a motorcyle and in the other a car rearended the wagon that was carrying a combine head. I spent much of Saturday in silent prayer for all involved in both and since we know the driver of the tractor and the truck pulling the combine head, it hit close to home.

However, the outcry of the public on our local newspaper website has riled me up. People have said farmers shouldn't be on the roads during the busy times, that we should get tickets for slowing down traffic, that we are inconsiderate, etc. I try not to "buy" into the critical comments of people especially when they are unwilling to share their name, however, some of the comments have hurt.

As a wife and mother of two children, who haven't seen their dad for more than about 1 to 2 hours in the last week, I am upset that people say things about the hardworking individuals that provide us food to buy cheaply at the stores.

My husband works long hard hours and yet some in the public think he should rearrange his schedule to make their commute quicker. Maybe each of us should take the time be more courteous and considerate of others on the road.

The one thing this outcry has taught me is that I need to be more considerate and courteous of others all the time....not just when driving. That starts with Jeff, John and Mary. Quite often they get my leftovers and it's not the most appetizing (or courtesous). I am reminded that they deserve the best of me!!!

Happy Father's Day!!!

2011-06-19T16:40:00.002-04:00

Happy Father's Day to Jeff - the dirty guy standing in the background of this picture. Jeff is a hard working father, who loves on his kids in all his spare time. He is usually busy in the summer but never too busy to stop and play with the kittens with Mary or to help John feed a calf or take us all for a ride in the tractor.

But most importantly Jeff is a Son of the King and instills the love of Jesus into his children. His desire for our children to grow to love Jesus and follow them with all their hearts is the trait in him I love the most.

Happy Father's Day Jeff!! We love you!!!

John's First Year of School

2011-06-15T18:31:00.006-04:00

John finished his first year of school last Thursday. He is now a big 1st grader (and his mom only cried a little).

Some highlights of first grade include:

PE Class

Making new friends

Field trips to Klackles Orchard, Kootsiers Greenhouse, Wittenbach Center and the Fransciscan Life Center (where I got to go along)

Recess

Hot Lunch

Taking his grandmas to school with him

100 day

The Letter Parade

John was truly blessed at school this year (as were we). His teacher was incredible and loved on each child as her own as well as teaching him all the things a Kindergarten student needs to know.

The neatest thing was the scrapbook she made for each child highlighting the year. It is such a treasure and he has shown it to many people.

While spending money for a private education and the extra time in the morning getting him to school and having him at my office may have been a slight burden, the blessings far outweigh the hardness in doing this. John will be resuming his commute with me in the fall only 5 days a week now. Many may think we are crazy doing this, I feel it was the best choice for our family and for John's education. God is leading and we continue to follow.

This is one of John's first friends - affectionately known as the cute blonde haired girl at our house

Spring....the season of "Alone" for a farmer's wife

2011-05-22T21:22:00.003-04:00

This spring has been an adventure! The weather has been wet and Jeff has been trying very hard to get our 700 acres of corn planted. Jeff has great help - his parents, Wes our hired man, and two great teenagers who are helping milk cows, and then of course there is me....

I am a farmer's wife - who is also a working mom of two. While Jeff is very busy with farm work, I am trying to stay above the water at work with a major deadline this week (dumped on me because I tried to delegate - won't be doing that again soon) and trying to keep life rolling for the kiddos around the house.

This morning our pastor mentioned that many think the ideal situation would be "being a farmer" and I laughed out loud. Laughed out loud because I'm never sure how many people realize how many hours a farmer puts in and how many hours a farmer's wife puts in. I've been focusing on God and trying so hard to be thankful for the great gifts HE has given us. Jeff loves farming (for the most part) and I love Jeff....and I married him over 11 years ago knowing this would be our life. While I have grown to love farming more through the years - there are days I am a jealous wife, and more a jealous mom for my children who miss him.

So thankful that God is always there and that we do not have a season of "Alone" from HIM. HE will never leave nor forsake us and I'm clinging to that rock during my farm season of "alone."

A picture of Jeff and Mary from our vacation. This is at Cabela's in Kansas City.

Updates....

2011-05-11T08:25:00.003-04:00

I see I'm back on the rapid blog post of once a month or so. At least I have a pattern. Since Mary's 3rd Birthday life at the Nitengales has been fun!

We had a small stretch where I had some medical testing to make sure I didn't have lupus. Reminded me that God is in control of all.

Found out my friend Gordon has Stage 4 brain and lung cancer. Reminded me that life is short, fragile and needs to be enjoyed and embraced. God knows our days and we need to leave that in HIS hands, but should be doing our best for HIM each and every day.

Enjoyed a wonderful Good Friday chapel at John's school and then our Good Friday service at our church. Really pondered Saturday this year and what the disciples must have been thinking. Easter morning was full of teaching K-2nd graders, but got an awesome lesson about Jesus being the bread of life from one of our missionaries (that was teaching the kiddos). Isn't God great to teach us a lesson while we are serving?

Celebrated my dad's 65th birthday!!

Went on my first field trip with John to the Fransiscan Life Center where we learned to make bread. It was so much fun to spend the afternoon with my handsome kindergartner.

John had his grandmas to his school for grandparents day and then I took them out for lunch afterwards for mother's day. I am blessed to have a mom and mom-in-law that still love their husbands and honor them, as well as are willing to help me out so that I can train for running marathons.

I ran my 6th marathon - the Kalamazoo marathon on Mother's Day! Interestingly enough it was my 6th Mother's Day!! What an incredible day! I ran a personal best 5:00:55 for my marathon and learned some things I need to practice, but overall it was a great Mother's day!!'

On top of all this, Jeff started planting corn May 4th and has been working some crazy long hours, including one 21 hour day this week!! That always reminds me of the verse in Proverbs:

A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest,
and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.
Proverbs 6:11

Mary is 3!!!

2011-04-10T07:17:00.002-04:00

I am really not sure where 3 years went, but this lovely little lady has a birthday today. Mary is such a joy to our family. We wouldn't be complete without her and God knew that.

Mary loves to do everything with great excitement and energy. Her favorite things right now are dollies, ice cream, and music. She loves to sing and loves to have the radio/CD on loud. Toby Mac is still a favorite, as is Chris Tomlin and now Kutless (maybe Jeff and I influence her a little).

She is a girly girl - loves pink, purple, and dresses (I am not an influence there). Happy Birthday Princess Mary - a child of the King!!

We love you and pray that the years ahead draw you closer to the Jesus you sing about so much!!!

Fast, Faster, Fastest......

2011-04-05T21:34:00.002-04:00

I wish I could say I have been completely successful with my Lent fast from Facebook. It has gotten much harder while on vacation. I have down time so I want to be on the computer and I'm not even sure why. I often think our family would be better if we left the computer at home.

I'm trying to focus on the reason for the 40 days of Lent and what Jesus accomplished at the cross. I'm looking forward to serving our church Easter morning and teaching little ones about the amazing resurrection and our living Christ.

I'm going to try to be "fastest" and finish out this season of Lent focused on the reason for Easter - the fact that Jesus came, lived a perfect life, died on the cross for YOU and ME, and then was raised from the dead and is alive at God's right had. What an amazing thing to remember!!!

P.S. Spring break trip pictures and wrap up after we get home and I download our pictures.

Family Road Trip

2011-04-01T09:33:00.008-04:00

For the first time in two years, Jeff is able to leave the farm for more than 2 days. As a family, we are heading on a road trip that has the following itinerary:

Thursday 3/31 - leave Greenville and drive to St. Louis, MO with a stop in Joliet, Illinois for Giordano's pizza

Friday 4/1 - head to Stillwater, Oklahoma with a stop in Tulsa for dinner at the Spaghetti Warehouse

Saturday 4/2 - I will be running the Lake McMurty 25K Trail Run just West of Stillwater. Then we are going to wander around OSU (and NOT Ohio State).

Sunday 4/3 - visit a church in a new area and gain appreciation for our wonderful church at home, visit Stockyard City and the Memorial at the Oklahoma City bombing site

Monday 4/4 and Tuesday 4/5 - meander our way to Kansas City, Missouri through the Eastern side of Oklahoma and the Western side of Arkansas. KC Royals game on Tuesday night.

Wednesday 4/6 - head back to Greenville

Thursday 4/7 - back to reality

While many would think this is a lot of road tripping in the car, I am very excited to have our family (plus our good friend Elliott) together for an extended period of time before farming starts. It is important for Jeff to spend some quality time with John and Mary and time in the car can be quality!! ;-)

Social Media Fast Update - I have cheated a few times, but am really prioritizing my time on the computer and focusing on the kids more which is the reason for the fast.

We are off to see the GIANT ketchup bottle in Collinsville, IL before we hit the road for Stillwater. Lots of driving = lots of memories!!

Social Media Fast

2011-03-18T18:02:00.004-04:00

I'm a Facebook junkie and I freely admit it. I can spend hours looking at pictures friends have posted and have been known to check, re-check, and check again at night for status updates.

Due to realizing this I decided to take the 40 days of Lent off from Facebook. I have cheated a couple times and am glad I did because a friend invited me to a birthday party and I wouldn't have known about it.

This has got me wondering what we did before Facebook....oh yeah, we sent e-mails, and before that we called on our cell phones, and before that we called on a phone that was attached to a wall, and before that we wrote letters....and on it goes back to when it took months to communicate with others.

While I appreciate the fact that Facebook brings me closer to our friends that live all over the country and world, I also realize that I was becoming too addicted to it. I'm praying that this 40 day fast will be what gives me the break I need to refocus and repurpose in my heart what Jesus has for me.

Taking a break from Facebook often means I'm not "in" on the current workings of what is happening with all my "friends" and I miss out on recent pictures, but I'm also thinking about writing on here more, journalling and spending time coloring and playing with my kids.

Each of us needs a fast from something occasionally to remind us what really matters, which for me is becoming more and more like Jesus and not allowing sin to creep in.

"Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary, pure and holy, tried and true. And with thanksgiving I'll be living sanctuary for you."

Random....

2011-02-21T07:42:00.002-05:00

Did you notice the title is Random Ponderings...and random it is! I have been so swamped between work and home that blogging hasn't happened. And my brain today is overflowing with randomness.....

1. Thoughts of teaching a Jr. High SS class at night at our church (in the prayer stage)
2. Thoughts of the AWANA Grand Prix that I'm in charge of (on March 5th)
3. Thoughts of two little kids that I love more than anything and how quickly they are growing up
4. Thoughts of spring and planting and a husband that loves farming
5. Thoughts of becoming the woman God has called me to be which is a process that is still being worked out in me and through me
6. Trying to find the balance in life, but deciding that sometimes imbalance is perfectly OK.

O Come Let Us Adore Him

2010-12-24T19:51:00.000-05:00

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rest."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

Luke 2:8-15

The Nitengales wish you a very Merry Christmas and pray that each of you will seek the Lord and go and see Jesus!!

Things I'm Thankful For

2010-11-26T08:06:00.000-05:00

Today (the day after Thanksgiving) is always a day I enjoy. I like to reflect on things to be thankful for. As a family, we have been doing that at devotions and here is the list that we have come up with so far (some are the kid's and some are mine)......

Jesus

Mom

Dad

Grandpas and Grandmas

Our warm, fairly maintenance free home

Cable TV

Internet

Food - usually pretty much whatever we want when we want it

Health - John and Mary are usually in good health and so are Jeff and I

Ability to run

Ability to play

A safe harvest this fall

Cows

Light Red Kidney Beans

Corn

A profession (farming) that my husband loves and a lifestyle that I have embraced

My 32 hour a week job that provides health benefits

Great co-workers

Our church and our church family

Our Pastors

Good friends that listen whenever we call (& complain)

A 10 year solid marriage (while probably strange in some people's eyes - fits Jeff and me perfectly)

John and Mary - without them our lives would be empty!

The Nitengales hope you all have had a blessed Thanksgiving and take time to remember to be thankful during the Christmas season as well as the rest of the year.

One year later.....

2010-11-20T18:58:00.000-05:00

A year ago today I lost one of my best friends in the world. I actually had talked to her for the last time on Monday November 16th, 2009, but today was the day her body went to heaven.
Here is the post about it:
http://nitengales.blogspot.com/2009/11/aunt-mary.html

I have spent this week thinking about what I have learned during the last year and how God is working in me, through me and using me. A lot of thoughts go through my mind, but I have decided that life is too short to be fretting and stressing. I was reminded last week at church that God has it all in control and that my "control-freak" tendencies aren't going to change anything but make me worked up. "Let not your heart be troubled...."

I know God is preparing my room in heaven and when I get there my aunt will greet me. Until then, I'm going to heed her advice and watch and see what God is going to do (but make sure I'm doing my part as well). I miss you Aunt Mary!!

Struggle...

2010-10-25T20:12:00.000-04:00

Why is it such a struggle to keep my eyes fixed on the Lord?

It seems when I make a decision to do so, then Satan attacks on all fronts - starting with my poor attitude and takes me on from there.

I so badly want to live a life worthy of hearing "Well done my good and faithful servant" when I get to heaven - but I blow it so many times each day. I am so Thankfully God's mercy and grace are new each day and in superexceeding abundant supply!

I confess my poor attitude and pray that God will help me keep it in line - even if that means He hits me up side the head with a two by four.

6 years ago......

2010-09-30T20:17:00.000-04:00

I was patiently waiting for Jeff to bring me my last meal before a scheduled c-section at 1:30 p.m. the next day. Little did we know that you would decide you wanted to arrive in the middle of the night at 2:30 a.m.

John - you definitely have a mind of your own, yet you are so full of love and care for others. You are constantly encouraging me. No matter how bad I blow it, you tell me you love me and that I'm the best {granted I'm the only mom you have}.

You love people of all ages and will interact with anyone. You are loving school and learning. Bugs, snakes, sharks and anything that moves have become a staple around our house and given your birthday party with friends tonight - the menagerie has grown considerably.

Your dad and I are impressed with how quickly you learn things and your memory amazes us!! Most importantly we are so excited that you love church, AWANA and going to your Christian school. Nothing will make us prouder than watching you grow into a young man who fully loves the Lord with all your heart.

Almost Happy Birthday Monkey!! We love you!!!

Ultra Momma

2010-09-17T20:53:00.000-04:00

I did it!! I ran my first ultra marathon!

I ran the Dances with Dirt 50K at the Pinckney State Game Area.
It was a hard, discouraging at times, blissful, fun 8 hours of running...yes I did say 8 hours. I finished in 8 hours and 3 minutes and ended up running about 31.5 miles because I got lost. Running is a loose interpretation since I did some walking, but I finished 31 miles in one block of time and am rejoicing!

I spent the summer training for this run and have finally figured out that my perseverance and determination are what make running fun for me. I WANT to finish and I WANT to finish well.

Now - I just need to move that into other areas of my life - mainly my devotion to God. I WANT to persevere in my race to become like Jesus and finish well.

Where did the time go....

2010-09-03T10:16:00.000-04:00

Where did 6 years go? How did my baby boy that was so cuddly and cute become a big Kindergarten kid starting school next week?

John is the sweetest kid, with compassion and care for others. He will tear up when you tell him about someone being hurt or sick. He is easily disciplined - as just looking at him cross-eyed makes him apologize. He loves his mama - and tells me often what a good cook I am (which makes me really realize how much he loves me).

He is excited about going to a Christian School where he can learn about Jesus at school as well as at church.

He has so much energy and is a joy to be around!! I can't wait to see what he learns at school...but am praying he doesn't grow up too quick!!

Summer of 2010

2010-07-17T16:19:00.001-04:00

So far this summer has been a warm one here in Michigan. Jeff is well into cultivating beans and 2nd cutting of hay is almost done. I am staying busy working and taking care of John and Mary.

John and Mary continue to stay healthy and are growing in all things by leaps and bounds. We are incredibly blessed to have two well-behaved, fun-loving children.

I continue to be amazed how God blesses his children...yet often wonder why HE lavishes HIS grace on each of us. Thankful for all the blessings GOd has given us this summer so far.

Pondering....

2010-06-28T18:11:00.000-04:00

I'm pondering how best to give more of myself to Jesus.

More of my time, talent and treasure.

More of my heart and mind.

Now I need to figure out the steps to make it happen.

Apples to Oranges

2010-06-19T19:10:00.000-04:00

Why to I spend so much time thinking about other people and comparing myself to them?
It's like comparing apples to oranges.

God has placed me where I am for a specific reason and time. I should follow HIS lead and be content in my situation! Yet it is so hard not to whine, cry, beg, for more...

More what I'm not sure...but today is one of those days where I need to remind myself of the Father's provision, protection and placement! He has placed me here for such a time is this!

Cooking...

2010-05-12T19:06:00.000-04:00

I love to cook for others.

Today I made two chicken and stuffing casseroles, cookies, biscuits and sausage gravy.
The sausage gravy is not for the faint hearted. It may put hair on the chests of the men I work with and it is so easy to make.

I enjoy it when people like what I make. I just wish I enjoyed cooking for my family as much as I enjoy cooking for others....maybe it will grow on me!

Farmer's Wife Vents

2010-04-30T07:09:00.000-04:00

We are into my favorite time of the year....NOT!

Jeff has started planting corn and is almost 1/2 done with the 640 acres he plants. He has worked long hours this week already - getting home around 10 each night and leaving at around 5:30 each morning.

I shouldn't whine or complain - but I really have moments when I don't like being a farmer's wife.

I feel left out. I work all day and can't help - yet get to hear about all he, his dad and mom have done to plant our crops (and I still am not sure where all our fields are).

I pick up all the slack at home - John, Mary, meals, cleaning, laundry, etc.

I'm thankful Jeff loves what he is doing and he is very good at it! I'm thankful for my career and that I enjoy doing what I do day in and day out at work. I'm thankful for John and Mary, and the fact they are healthy and active.

I'm struggling - missing my aunt (who was my go-to person during farming), trying to be more prayerful, doing devotions isn't a priority because all the "things" of life are piling up, trying to be a supportive wife, good mother, and the list could go on and on.

I was reminded on Sunday that God is my ROCK and I need to CRY out to HIM. So, Father, I'm crying out - Please help me to have the right perspective - YOUR perspective on life and farming right now. Hold me and help me just as Jeff was holding and comforting Mary in this picture. I'm trusting you God for our family and for my attitude!

Mary turns 2.....

2010-04-13T12:24:00.000-04:00

We had quite the weekend of fun. Mary turned 2 on April 10th and we celebrated with a Dairy Queen ice cream cake! We had Grandpa and Grandma Woodruff and Grandpa and Grandma Nitengale, as well as Uncle Alan, cousins Kelly, Tennessee, Jersey and Dakota over for a party on Friday night.

Mary got lots of clothes, a couple toys and a beautiful handmade rocking chair.

She is an incredibly blessed young girl

On Saturday night, we had Stephen, Jaclyn and Sofia as well as Elliot over for a friend's party.

Sofia is still not quite sure what to think of wild Mary, but Mary loves having Sofia (Fia) over to play.

This is our beautiful girly-girl all ready for church on Sunday.

She also has a pink purse that she took with her.

Mary brings sunshine and joy to our house (as well as some hair pulling).
God has richly blessed us with one handsome young man and one beautiful young lady!

Nitengale Updates...

2010-04-01T06:47:00.000-04:00

I have been so lax at posting on here. It may be due to work, kids, running, etc.

Some quick Nitengale updates to keep any random reader up to date.

Jeff is almost into full farming mode. He has replaced all the blades on the disk and the tractor has duals on it. They started disking yesterday (March 31st) and the joke at our house is when the first farmer will plant some corn. We usually start around April 25th or so, but there is always one farmer who "jumps" the gun.

Jeff and his dad, as well as friends from church have been busy cleaning out a fence row. The Nitengales are getting a center pivot irrigation system this spring. It is an exciting and fun adventure adding to our farming equipment with something that has great benefit.

I have been busy training for a marathon. It is this Saturday, April 3rd in Lafayette, Indiana. The family (& Elliot) are leaving tomorrow morning for a long weekend in Lafayette - hanging at a hotel with a waterpark, watching MSU play in the Final Four on Saturday night, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus at a church in Lafayette, and eating our Easter dinner at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse (yummy).

The kids - well, John is growing by leaps and bounds literally. As I dropped him off this morning, I see that his pajamas are getting too short. He has his bike out and is riding some at Grandpa and Grandma Woodruff's and we are looking forward to maybe taking his training wheels off this spring. He is also looking forward to riding in the tractor with daddy or Grandma Nitengale.

Mary is also growing. I think she may skip 2T clothes and go straight to 3T. She has a long torso and her 2T shirts are almost too tight and short. Her vocabulary is growing by leaps and bounds as well (as is John's vocabulary). They continue to amaze me with how much they learn and teach one another.

John and Mary are best buds (for the most part) and play really well together. It is such a blessing to have kids that get along.

We are still praying and seeking God's direction for school for the fall for John.

Jeff and I celebrate our 10 year anniversary next Thursday (April 8th). Tin is the traditional 10 year anniversary gift and I'm getting a pivot irrigation system with water piping, so you can say I'm getting a HUGE piece of tin. I love my Farmer Husband and am very thankful that God placed me with my best friend!!

I'll leave with this picture....we are die hard Michigan State University fans at our house!! The MSU Christmas tree again made it to April (because the basketball team is still playing)! GO GREEN! GO WHITE! GO STATE!!

Questions...

2010-03-12T07:04:00.001-05:00

There are so many days I have questions, but I'm thankful that the most important question in my life has been answered.

Jesus is my Saviour and I know I have a home in heaven!

Just pondering how people get through life not knowing......

Why....

2010-03-05T09:33:00.001-05:00

do I whine when I have two healthy active kids and I know families struggling with infertility, sick kids, loss of children, etc.?

do I complain about my car being broken down when there are some who have no vehicle?

am I wishing Mary would grow up and not be so messy when I know I will miss this stage when it is gone?

do I want so badly to be closer to Jesus yet am unwilling to give up my time watching TV to grow that relationship?

February 20, 2010 - A Very Special Day

2010-02-24T15:32:00.001-05:00

Last Saturday, February 20th, was a very special day for us. We were able to attend the wedding of Kelly Fath and Sherri DeClark. Their love story was written by God and continues to amaze me how God knows exactly our perfect match. Kelly was Jeff's college roommate at Cedarville from 1987 to 1991 (so you do the math on Kelly's age) and Sherri was also at Cedarville, but a few years later. It wasn't until this past January 2009 that their friendship really started to blossom and led to us celebrating on Saturday.

Kelly and Sherri - you are going to bring God much glory with your marriage and your life. We love you both!

The happy bride, groom and John and Mary

John and Mary - all dressed up with someplace to go

Jeff and myself - the rare occasion to see my husband all dressed up.
He is SOOOOOO handsome in a tux!!!! I fell in love with him even more.

My Valentine

2010-02-13T19:22:00.000-05:00

This is my husband of 10 years on April 8th. He is a farmer of 1100 acres and milks around 30 cows on a small dairy farm. Jeff is my best friend and the blessing that God sent me 11 years ago.

We met at our church and started as friends. After knowing each other for about 2 years, he asked me out on a date and the rest is history.... :-)

We are a perfect complement for each other. God couldn't have picked a better lifemate for me!

The best thing about Jeff is his love for God and learning more and more about God and HIS ways! He is always encouraging me and knows how to show me what God wants for me.

Thank you Jeff for being my Valentine for the rest of our lives.....
I love you!!

It's so hard....

2010-01-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

to listen to Jeff discpline John, yet know it's for God's best for his life.

to listen to Mary screaming for 1/2 hour in her bed because you won't give her candy.

to love with abandon...like my kids.

to know what to do for school for John next year.

to remember who is always in control - GOD!

to take time to give God praise for all HE has already done for me.

Why is this so hard....if I keep remembering who holds the whole world in HIS hands, it wouldn't be!

Who has time.....

2010-01-26T07:30:00.001-05:00

to BLOG when you

work 4 days a week in Grand Rapids
have two active kids
have swimming lessons on Mondays and Cubbies on Wednesday
sit on two City of Greenville committees
are training for your 4th marathon
want to spend more time with God in quiet time
are trying to limit your time on the computer

I actually enjoy putting my thoughts on here - but just haven't found a pattern and a plan.

Maybe one will appear to me while I run through the woods.

2009 in Review

2009-12-31T18:21:00.001-05:00

I can't believe we are within 5 hours of 2010. I've almost been alive for 4 decades and have seen a lot happen. The past year has had many blessings and a few hurts, but through it all God has been good.

Blessings:

A successful and safe farm season (together with his parents Jeff farmed over 1100 acres this year)
A good year for my job at FTC&H (we have stayed busy - maybe not super busy, but I still have a job and enjoy going 4 days a week)
Our church growth - even though we have had some growing pains, our church Calvary Baptist Church continues to grow and preach the gospel of Jesus
Good friends - Stephen, Jaclyn and Sofia moving back to Greenville. It is such a blessing to have them close to us again and we look forward to watching Sofia grow up both physically and spiritually
Those two in the picture above - John and Mary continue to bless us incredibly. Mary turned 1 and John turned 5 in 2009. They both are healthy and growing. John is making leaps and bounds in coloring and drawing, as well as has an active imagination. Mary loves to explore and get into anything she can get into.
The best blessing of the year - John asking Jesus into his heart on August 7, 2009

The Nitengales wish everyone a blessed 2010 and may you follow God boldly with your life and actions! Happy New Year!!

What I'm Learning.....

2009-12-02T16:30:00.000-05:00

TRUST Job 39:11-12 "Will you rely on him for his great strength? Will you leave your heavy work to him? Can you TRUST him to bring in your grain and gather it to your threshing floor?"

This has been key to this fall's harvest for us. TRUST in God and God alone to provide for us.

REST Proverbs 19:23 "The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one RESTS content, untouched by trouble"

God is showing me that I need to REST in him to be my all in all, not in other people, possessions, or position. Just in HIM!

PRAISE Psalm 150 "Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD."

My aunt was very good at praising God for what HE was doing in her life. I long to be more like that and bring God the glory verbally that HE so richly deserves.

I'm learning much more - but we'll leave it at this for now.

Aunt Mary...

2009-11-26T11:24:00.000-05:00

It's been a whirlwind week and I need to write down some thoughts. On Monday, November 16th I talked with my Aunt Mary (my dad's sister) to see how she was feeling. She had been diagnosed with pneumonia and H1N1 flu. She was still not feeling well and I told her I'd be praying for her. On Tuesday evening, my Uncle Mark took her to the ER in Grand Rapids and she was admitted for dehydration due to the flu/pneumonia.

Of course, she sent my uncle and her son Jim home after telling them she loved them. She said she would get some rest and now she is resting in the arms of Jesus.

On Wednesday morning, her heart died due to a virus that attacked and killed both the ventricles in her heart. The miracle of medicine kept her body alive until Friday November 20th, but her body had been so hurt by the death of her heart that she left this world.

I have so many feelings flowing through my head, heart and mind. She was a constant in my life of spiritual guidance and prayer. She was an aunt, but more than that she was a great sister in Christ. I cried out to God on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday to heal her - knowing HE could heal her in 2 ways. HE healed her completely - taking her to HIS side, but those of us left behind are hurting and aching.

I'm mad - she had just finished nursing school 18 months ago and was excited about all she could do to help others. She was a giving, caring person and offered all of herself to Jesus. Why did God take her so soon?

My prayer is that God is moving in the hearts of others. Nothing would have made her happier than knowing that even 1 person came to accept Jesus as Saviour as a result of her death.

I'm also evaluating my own life and realizing that people and relationships are far more important than running around like a chicken with my head cut off. But right now, I'm hurting and grieving the emptiness in my life.

Thank you to all of those who have lifted me in prayer this last week and who are continuing to lift me. You are a treasure to me (even if I don't remember to tell you so)!

Princess Pants....

2009-10-29T11:43:00.000-04:00

This is Mary - my 18 month old Princess Pants (as John and I like to call her). She has so much energy it's almost contagious. She is curious, mischievious, loving and cuddly. Her favorite thing right now is a pink silky blanket and we don't go to far without having it along (it traveled to Florida and back).

She was sort of a surprise. As I was training for the 2007 Grand Island marthon, we got pregnant and found out about 3 weeks after the marathon....so she was along when I ran my first marathon (maybe this is where the energy comes from).

She is certainly a surprise every day. She loves food (takes after her mom) and especially ice cream! She is very mobile, crawling at 6 months, walking at 11 months and now running everywhere. She loves her big brother John and wrestling with him and Daddy. She also loves seeing her daddy come home and practically knocks anything over to get to the door to greet him while yelling DADDY!

She knows Daddy's truck and also gets really excited as we near the farm. The gator at G&G Woodruff's is also a favorite and she would ride on it for hours on end (pretty soon she'll be driving it).

Our life would not be complete without our Princess Pants and the joy she brings to our life. I'm thankful God has blessed us with one little boy and one little girl!

Struggling....

2009-10-28T07:28:00.000-04:00

Struggling, Struggling, Struggling....

Being a good wife
Being a good mom
Being a good employee
Walking with God
Being a good daughter and daughter-in-law

But then again - what is the definition of GOOD - thankfully God takes me as I am - flaws and all!

John - our firstborn

2009-10-23T20:37:00.001-04:00

This little man is our sweet son John. He is our first born and was prayed for before he arrived. He is busy, smart and sensitive. He is growing up to quickly for his mom. He's 5 years old and going on 16. He likes to play with trucks, watch movies, and now sit and color for hours on end.

The best thing about John is that not only is he our son, but he is also our brother in Christ. He asked Jesus into his heart this summer and what a blessing that was to be a part of.

We are so thankful for him and praying that he continues to grow in Christ each and every moment.

Back to Reality

2009-10-22T21:16:00.001-04:00

I'm back from a week in Florida and it was wonderful. However, the reality of life is what you have to go through each and every day. It isn't always fun, it isn't always relaxing, it isn't always without schedule, cooking, or cleaning (all things I hate), but it is always there.

I really want my kids to learn that life is what happens when you are growing and learning. That we all aren't winners and that those who persevere, yet don't win - are still champions. That God is always cheering for them and on their side. I need to learn that myself in the process.

Waves Come Crashing In

2009-10-20T15:43:00.000-04:00

There are days I feel like I'm being knocked over and sucked in by the waves of life. It is then that I need to remember who holds the days in HIS hands and who will always take care of me.

Today was such a reminder of that as I watched John getting slammed by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Things happen in our lives that could knock us down and overwhelm us, however, God is always there to help pick us up and put us back on track - just as I did for John and Mary.
What a great reminder of God's provision and care!

The First Post

2009-10-19T20:26:00.001-04:00

It's crazy how busy I am - yet I'm choosing to start this blog. It's one way to journal my thoughts and the blessings going on in our life, plus letting me use what I use the best - my computer.

Today - October 18th - John, Mary and I are enjoying a condo in Ormond Beach, Florida. We flew down on October 15th, visited family and friends, for three days, then headed to the Atlantic Ocean for 3 days with my mom in tow. It's been a blessing to be away from work for a few days and spend some quality time with John and Mary.

Unfortunately, while we three are away - Jeff is busy, busy, busy. The weather has caused a delay in harvesting our dry bean crops, so he is working really long hours, along with his mom and dad (and a hired man) to get the beans harvested. We are thankful that God has provided good weather and a good yield for the beans so far.

John continues to grow and mature and is quite smart for a 5 year old. He picks up on everything and reminds me constantly of things I have forgotten to do. Mary is a mischievious 18 month old. She is a momma's girl beyond belief and I am constantly amazed at how much she is learning from us. I am reminded that I am entrusted with raising children to love God - a daunting task, yet so rewarding.