In HIS hands

Weekend at Papa and Nana's

2012-01-28T08:26:00.000-08:00

Family Pictures

2012-01-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

Desktop Plaque

View the entire collection of cards.

2011 -- Our Year in Pictures

2011-12-31T15:53:00.000-08:00

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Welcome 2012!!!! Happy New Year!!!!

Christmas Holidays 2011

2011-12-30T09:10:00.000-08:00

Sawyer placed the star on top of our tree!

This Christmas tree skirt is very special because it was hand-made for me about twenty years ago by my MaMa Thomason.

Nana Sheila and Jenny made this gingerbread house with Sawyer and Olivia. This picture shows the gingerbread house before Olivia ate the gumdrops off the edge!:)She's a sneaky one!!

Mom made this Christmas dress twenty something years ago for one of my cousins. If you look closely you can see that it is smocked. I'm glad the dress is still around for Olivia to enjoy!

This picture was from Polar Express Day at Sawyer's school. He wore his dinosaur pajamas. He had a great time with his friends that day!

Grams

Nana Carolyn

Grams bought Olivia a beautiful necklace!

Olivia likes her new piano!

Sawyer has really been into drawing a lot lately so we got him a Cars2 drawing set. There is a light that makes it easier to trace pictures.

Olivia got a new inflatable sleeping bag for when we travel. She and her new Dora doll got inside.

We all had a great time up at Uncle Dan & Aunt Judy's house!

Katie and Olivia

The White Elephant game was hilarious!!

And Olivia played the biggest joke....when no one was looking she opened up one of the gag gifts!!

It has been wonderful having daddy off work for 10 straight days!!! Woo-hoo! And now we are looking forward to visiting with the Boyds next weekend!!

Olivia dancing

2011-11-17T13:09:00.001-08:00

Olivia dancing a video by Eric and Jill on Flickr.

Spiderman and Cinderella

2011-11-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

Spiderman and Cinderella had a great time trick or treating in Gram's subdivision!

Olivia is 2!

2011-10-19T14:51:00.000-07:00

Olivia's Princess Castle Cake

The party was at Chick-Fil-A.

Cousin Isabelle liked the cake!

There was a cupcake decorating station, complete with icing, candy corn, sprinkles, gum drops, and gel icing:)

It was a great party! If anyone else has any additional pictures from the party, please email them to me at jillthomason@hotmail.com

Olivia's 2 Year Old Stats:
35" tall
weight: 27 lbs.

Book Review: Smack-Dab in the Middle of God's Love

2011-09-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

By: Brennan Manning and John Blasé, Illustrated by: Nicole Tadgell

Best for ages 3-10 years

This is a children’s book that tells the story of a middle aged couple, Willie Juan and Ana, and their love for children. This couple was unable to have their own children, but they invested time and much love into the children of their Mexican village.

I greatly appreciate that this book speaks of God’s (“Abba’s”) love for all. I think it is very important to teach our children that God loves them and has a special plan for each of their lives. My only complaint about this book is that the salvation story is never shared. A “works based” theology is alluded to and grace and forgiveness are never mentioned.

On a positive note, the illustrations are absolutely gorgeous! I kept looking at the book and enjoying the sketches that appear to be painted with watercolors. The colors are very vibrant, and rightfully so for a Mexican story. I think this story is a wonderful reminder to all of us, children and adults alike, that we are all made in God’s image and He loves us very much.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sawyer is 6!!!

2011-09-15T16:32:00.000-07:00

Sawyer's class singing "Happy Birthday" to him

Sawyer choosing a birthday present from his teacher's birthday bag

his birthday party at our house

Sawyer got a trampoline for his birthday!

lots of great presents!

Women of Faith - Imagine 2011

2011-08-20T08:01:00.000-07:00

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us" Ephesians 3:20...This was the theme verse for the Women of Faith event that mom and I were blessed to attend last weekend in Atlanta. What a blessing it was to worship with thousands of sisters of Christ. We laughed and cried as we heard testimonies of God's faithfulness even in the midst of trials. The worship team was amazing along with Natalie Grant, Lisa Harper, Nicole Johnson, Mary Mary, Angie Smith, Luci Swindoll, Sheila Walsh, and Laura Story! God has done a mighty work in each of those ladies and I was so honored to listen to their testimonies and hear their beautiful voices praise His name! http://www.womenoffaith.com/
mom & I

Lisa Harper
I really want to read Lisa's new book, Stumbling into Grace. If you've read this book please leave a comment letting me know how you liked it.

Natalie Grant
Natalie's adorable twin daughters were there at Phillips Arena too:) My favorite song that Natalie sings is "Your Great Name".

Laura Story
Laura has an amazing testimony of what God is teaching her through the sickness of her husband that has a brain tumor. Through her trials she has penned the song "Blessings" that she sings so beautifully. Also she wrote "Indescribable" (recorded by Chris Tomlin) that has become the No.1 worship song! Her new album is named "Blessings".

Mary Mary
These two sisters- Tina & Erica- know how to rock it! They are famous for several songs, but mainly "Shackles".

Luci Swindoll (Chuck Swindoll's sister) has an amazing ministry traveling all around the world. She helps with World Vision to find and visit families that have children that need to be adopted.

Mom and I had to have a nice dinner while in Atlanta. Mom took me for the first time to one of her favorites, Nan's Thai (link below)! It was sooo yummy and the atmosphere is very relaxing and nice!

http://www.nanfinedining.com/#home

Kindergarten!

2011-08-06T17:49:00.000-07:00

Sawyer started Kindergarten yesterday!

Olivia dancing with her baby doll

2011-08-01T16:46:00.000-07:00

Book Review: Leading to the Bedroom

2011-07-24T11:09:00.000-07:00

Leading to the Bedroom by: David and Katie Reid

This book is an extraordinary guide about intimacy in marriage! I like that David and Katie Reid don’t tip-toe around this important gift of intimacy in marriage. Instead, they focus on challenges of intimacy that all married couples face, but that most authors and teachers shy away from teaching. It was refreshing and very helpful to my marriage for both my husband and I to read the book, and discuss the subject matter. We were challenged in ways we had not been before.

As a woman, I greatly appreciated that at the end of each chapter there is “A Wife’s Take”, where Katie Reid writes about her perspective supporting her husband’s teaching throughout that chapter. The book is chalked full of scripture to back up the teaching as Biblical truth. I greatly appreciate that this book often reminds us that sex in marriage is nothing to be ashamed of. This book teaches that martial oneness through unashamed intimacy and living the gospel out is what God has planned for our marriages. It is a gift from Him!

This book is a very practical must read for every marriage! I highly recommend it!

To read more about this book, see the website http://www.leadingtothebedroom.com/ and read an additional review at http://www.examiner.com/conservative-in-atlanta/leading-to-the-bedroom-the-couple-s-guide-to-soul-sex-review

Women of Faith

2011-07-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

I'm getting pumped about the upcoming Women of Faith conference in Atlanta this Aug. 12th & 13th!

Cars 2

2011-07-07T12:59:00.000-07:00

Sawyer's first theater movie was Cars 2. He liked it so much that he has already went to see the movie again! He enjoyed the popcorn and movie but not the long previews at the beginning.

Sawyer's Swimming Lessons

2011-07-01T13:31:00.001-07:00

thumbs up with Miss Melanie (while Sawyer is enjoying his Starbust candy)

We are so proud of Sawyer! He has improved greatly in his swimming skills and is now at a level two: green fish!

Book Review: The Part-Time Vegan (Cookbook)

2011-06-25T18:01:00.000-07:00

The Part-Time Vegan: 201 Yummy Recipes That Put the FUN in Flexitarian
by: Cherise Grifoni

This book teaches what it means to adopt veganism and how to get started. It’s a guide for those that are new to veganism and wanting to try it out. There are a lot of unique recipes that will keep any kitchen interesting! Each recipe is coded to let the reader know if the recipe is a protein, a fiber, quick to fix, or if the recipe is a flexible recipe for when you’re not "in a vegan mood". I appreciate that this author makes suggestions about veganism but isn’t overly dogmatic and pushy about her beliefs and eating standards. That makes this cookbook very adventurous, but not feel demanding.

I found this cookbook very interesting! I’ve already tried out four recipes and I’m looking forward to trying more. My husband and I are both meat eaters but we are okay with not eating meat at every meal, so these recipes are fun for us! If you want to sample two of the mouth-watering recipes from this cookbook, visit my recipe blog at http://besteverrecipecollection.blogspot.com/2011/06/crepes.html and http://besteverrecipecollection.blogspot.com/2011/06/peach-thyme-muffins.html
The only challenge I have found with this cookbook is that some of the ingredients, like agave nectar, quinoa, vegan margarine, soy yogurt, and others can be hard to find at a typical grocery store. Other than that, I think these are great recipes! I highly recommend this cookbook to anyone wanting to try veganism!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Happy 20 months to Olivia!

2011-06-15T09:49:00.000-07:00

Autism Walk - Atlanta, GA

2011-05-24T11:21:00.001-07:00

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Book Review: Obama Prayer

2011-05-21T09:25:00.000-07:00

"It is comforting to know people are praying for you who don't always agree with you." -President Obama
http://usat.ly/evnAdn

Obama Prayer: Prayers for the 44th President
By: Charles M. Garriott

As a very conservative Republican myself, I have been humbled and convicted about my lack of praying for our President. I know that I should pray for him regardless of how I feel about his views and decisions. This book, Obama Prayer, has been just what I needed to help me focus on praying for our President. I appreciate so much the work that Garriott put into bringing scripture and prayers together to write this helpful prayer guide. There is a prayer at the end of every chapter that follows along with the theme of that chapter. As the book directs to even pray for the President’s friendships, I am reminded that he is a real person just like you and I. I highly recommend individuals and church groups to purchase this book to use as a prayer guide for President Obama and our nations future presidents.

Author Charles M. Garriott wrote: “This prayer book is a call for every thoughtful Christian in our land to respond to this administration as our Lord has intended. Christians may not get their political way. But they are expected to represent the Gospel in every sphere of life. Thoughtful, intelligent and persistent prayer for our leader is part of what it means for us to be salt and light in a needy world.”(pg.13)

Mommy & Daughter Pictures

2011-05-14T11:32:00.000-07:00

me

me and Nana (Carolyn Mattox)

Olivia wearing my dress

me and Olivia at church

Book Review: Waiting for Benjamin

2011-04-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

Waiting for Benjamin: A Story about Autism is a wonderful book that I suggest everyone reading! The story and the pictures are done with excellence by Alexandra Jessup Altman and Susan Keeter. This is a heart-felt story of an older brother that struggles with the differences that his younger brother has with autism. This is an especially great book for helping the siblings of children with autism. You may even cry a little bit, but only tears of joy, as you read about these brothers and their love for one another that only grows sweeter.

Fun at home!

2011-04-01T09:54:00.000-07:00

Best Toy--- A Box!

2011-03-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

A Perfect Date: Plates, downtown Carrollton

2011-03-16T17:59:00.000-07:00

I've always wanted to sit on the balcony at Plates and we did this time!

We both ordered their Indian special!

I'm really enjoying living in Carrollton, Georgia!

Book Review: Shiny Sequin Bible

2011-02-18T18:09:00.000-08:00

Holy Bible: Shiny Sequin Bible, International Children’s Bible translation
I am excited to present to you my review of this adorable, “girly girl” Bible! Tommy Nelson Publishers have released a copy of God’s Holy Word wrapped in sparkles and sequins that will make any girl proud to carry and read her Bible! The colors of the Bible are pink, green, purple, fuschia, and blue.

This Bible is easy to use and easy to read. The translation is meant for younger readers, but still keeps to the truth of the inerrant Word of God. The cover has a nice fabric-like layer on top of the paperback covering that makes it more durable than most paperbacks. There is a small Bible Dictionary towards the back that is perfect for the young ladies that are learning new concepts in God’s Word. The dictionary will aid in correcting any confusion and misunderstanding related to some biblical terms. Also, I find that the font size is perfect in this Bible - neither too large nor too small. Also, four color maps are in the back of the Bible. I particularly like the Memory Verse section towards the back that has listed many life application verses. I perceive the selected verses to be presented on a middle school level.

One issue I do not like about this Bible is that there are not individual chapter headings, but instead there are headings at the top of each page. I particularly noticed this on pages that have multiple chapters, such as the Psalms. Other standard versions usually give chapter headings, which highlights that chapter’s particular subject or theme. This can be quite helpful for the serious student of the Word. Other than that one issue, this is a really great Bible!

I highly recommend this Bible for any middle school age young lady. She will learn to treasure God’s Word in her heart while carrying possibly the most fashionable Bible in the whole church!

I noticed that www.christianbook.com has this Bible on sale!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Valentines 2011

2011-02-15T05:55:00.000-08:00

Sawyer Sayings

2011-02-04T09:59:00.000-08:00

Bubble Wrap Boy!

Here's his quotes:

"Look, I have some money (showing me a few fake coins from his pocket). We can go to a restaurant now."

"It will be Polar Express Day in my house when Grams comes to visit!"

"Come again another day!"

“My dog and cat will like my Polar Express movie”. (He doesn't have a dog or a cat but he does want both.)

me: “There are three parts in God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit”.
Sawyer: “No, there are five: the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit, the mommy, and the baby.”

Randomly at the end of January, Sawyer said, “Merry Christmas, Mommy!”.

Sawyer’s favorite quote from Home Alone: “This is it! Don’t get scared now!”

When Sawyer poured water out of his pool onto the deck, he said, “we’ll clean this up later.”

“Daddy snores like a truck. Daddy snores like a train.”

“I need to check my e-mail”.

“This is my favorite waffle.” (at the Waffle House)

“I Pwomise”

Sawyer: “I’m so happy.”
Grams: “Why are you so happy?”
Sawyer: “because I did so good for the farmer.”

“Mommy, you are a exercise lady.”

Sawyer: “Do you know why I put my covers over my head?”
Me: “No, why do you?”
Sawyer: “to keep the monsters (in my room) from putting eye drops in my eyes.”

Sawyer: “The school bus is shining a light in my room”.
Me: “Yes, the school bus is here picking up the boys from across the street.”
Sawyer: “Oh, does the school bus have arms?”

“Olivia wants a blue Dinoco helicopter for her birthday.” (YEAH RIGHT!)

Trying to get to wear another pair of pants, instead of the ones I had told him to wear, Sawyer said, “These don’t fit. I’m too chubby.”

I was playing with Olivia by spinning her around. Sawyer said, “Please don’t spin in our new house. It’s NOT NICE and it’s DANGEROUS!”

“Uncle Ryan—WE HAVE A PROBLEM!”

Sawyer: “Grams, I like your hair. It’s white.”
Grams: “No Sawyer, it’s blonde like yours.”

“Maybe later”

Olivia - 15 months old

2011-02-01T10:40:00.000-08:00

She did this herself while I was in another room. She pulled out the drawer and climbed in all by herself. I think she was pretty proud of herself!:)

fell asleep in daddy's arms...so sweet!

Olivia now weighs 25 pounds and is 32 inches tall!

She can say:
Da Da
Ma Ma
dog
cracker
thank you
Nana

can sign:
more
please
all done

exercising!

2011-01-21T10:31:00.001-08:00

doing their exercising!
Originally uploaded by Eric and Jill

All Snowed In

2011-01-11T14:25:00.000-08:00

Jill's Goals for 2011

2011-01-04T09:23:00.000-08:00

I just thought for accountability's sake, I will share with you all my goals for this new year. I have more in my mind, but I think these four are of the highest priority.

Proverbs 29:18 (American Standard Version)
Where there is no vision, the people cast off restraint; But he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

1. I will read the whole Bible chronically this year is goal #1. I found a great website-http://www.bibleplan.org. You can go on there and choose which plan for reading the Bible through is best for you. Here's the plan I've chosen http://www.bibleplan.org/ch/niv
Confession- I have never read the Bible through in a year. In fact, I don't know for sure if I have ever completely read the whole Bible. I remember reading the whole Old Testament in college and I've probably read the whole New Testament piece by piece over the years but THIS YEAR is the year I will know that I have read the whole Bible! And it's not just about saying that I've read the whole Bible, it's about reading God's annointed, inspired Word that is completely infallible!
Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105

2. I will read AT LEAST 1 Marriage book and 1 Parenting book in 2011. I've chosen already the marriage book that I want to read. I will be reading Leading to the Bedroom by: David and Katie Reid and following along with the discussion and questions on their blog http://www.leadingtothebedroom.com. I'm undecided about which parenting book I will choose (any suggestions?). I'm finishing up a wonderful parenting book right now called On Becoming Child Wise- parenting your child from three to seven years. I can't say enough good things about this book. It is so insightful! The authors, Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam have a wealth of experience and observations from the years that they share in a wonderful way.

3. I will continue practicing catechisms and Bible verses regularly with Sawyer, in hopes that he will learn AT LEAST six new Bible verses this year and that we will complete the whole list of First Catechisms (we are on #11 of 20 right now). If you are interested in taking a look, I use the Parent Handbook for Scripture Memory http://www.centralpc.org/ministry/children/memorybk.htm#a3. And upon request, I will gladly email anyone The First Catechisms. Proverbs 22:6

4. And on a very personal note (I almost did not include this on the internet), By God's grace, I will continue to improve with the compulsions that I struggle with to check things around the house. For those of you who know me well, know that I've struggled with this for years now. I know it's my sinful nature wanting to always be in control. Eric is a wonderful support to me and God has graciously healed me of many of the obsessions and compulsions that I use to have. God is so good! Proverbs 28:13

Here's to 2011!!!!!!!

It's A New Year, God - poem

2011-01-04T06:06:00.000-08:00

It's A New Year, God

You are ushering in another year

untouched and freshly new,

so here I come to ask You God

if You'll renew me to?

Forgive the many errors,

that I made in the past,

and let me try again dear God,

to walk closer in Thy way.

But God, I am well aware

I can't make it on my own.

So take my hand and hold it tight

for I can't walk alone.

Lord, teach me, as Your faithful follower, how

To have fun without folly,

To be cheerful without vanity,

To have self-respect without pride,

To be strict without fanaticism,

To be relaxed without laziness,

To be serious without gloom,

To be friendly and not fickle,

To be sunny and not silly,

Lord, teach me how.

Amen.

~author unknown

Christmas Pictures

2011-01-03T09:22:00.000-08:00

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Our Year in Pictures - 2010

2010-12-30T18:28:00.000-08:00

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-22T13:51:00.001-08:00

1 chair + 1 laundry basket full of toys + 1 imaginative boy = Santa and his sleigh!

7th Anniversary

2010-12-19T15:40:00.000-08:00

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Thanksgiving Pictures

2010-11-29T08:23:00.000-08:00

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Fall Pictures of Olivia

2010-11-18T09:13:00.001-08:00

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Fall Pictures of Sawyer

2010-11-18T08:49:00.001-08:00

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Sawyer's Fire Dep. field trip

2010-10-19T06:57:00.001-07:00

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Olivia's 1 year portraits - click on the links to view

2010-10-18T18:11:00.000-07:00

Image Center - Olan Mills Portrait Studios

2010-10-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

Image Center - Olan Mills Portrait Studios

2010-10-18T18:09:00.001-07:00

Image Center - Olan Mills Portrait Studios

2010-10-18T18:09:00.000-07:00

Image Center - Olan Mills Portrait Studios

Olivia turned 1!

2010-10-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

Olivia likes playing with blocks,

playing with Sawyer's train table when he's not looking:),

playing with the calculator,

looking at books, and...

playing so hard she gets exhausted!

Olivia's 1st Birthday Party!

2010-10-18T09:06:00.001-07:00

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Olivia playing

2010-10-11T17:46:00.000-07:00

The laundry basket is one of Olivia's favorite toys!:)

Sweetwater Valley Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

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I've added Sawyer's field trip pictures to this album. Enjoy!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-29T09:31:00.000-07:00

Multitude Monday: bowls of prayer

2010-09-27T08:55:00.001-07:00

I'm studying the book of Revelation right now by using Beth Moore's study: Here and Now...There and Then. I'm so thankful for this study that is helping me understand better the book of Revelation. Notice that I said understand "better"...not sure if we can ever understand the book of Revelation completely! But what a joy it is to understand pieces of scripture for the first time.

Beth says that our prayers "...are sitting right before God in a bowl".

"Each one (the 24 elders) had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints." Revelation 5:8b

I praise God that our voices are heard when we pray and that our prayers are like incense to Him!

Psalm 141:1-2 (New International Version)

1 O LORD, I call to you; come quickly to me.
Hear my voice when I call to you.

2 May my prayer be set before you like incense;
may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.

Hebrews 4:16 (New International Version)

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.

I love winning blog giveaways!

2010-09-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that one of my favorite hobbies is reading blogs AND entering to win freebies on blogs!! I just love the thrill of getting something for free! I only enter giveaways that are actually giving away something that I want. Believe it or not, there are giveaways out there that are really a waste of time but I enjoy entering giveaways that will be a nice gift for myself or my children. A couple of months ago you may have seen the post where I showed the painting I won. Yes it was hand-painted! I can't wait to hang it up in our next home. So lately I have won two more things! I won a book for Sawyer and a pair of hair clips for Olivia. Here they are...

I won 1 free item from Little One Books (http://www.littleonebooks.com/). I could choose any 1 item from their website. Since Sawyer and I both love Eric Carle books, I chose this book written by Eric Carle.

I won a pair of clips from Lilla Hairclips (http://www.lillahairclips.com/).

Olivia can even wear the clip with her helmet!

My 30th!

2010-09-23T08:46:00.000-07:00

beautiful roses from Eric

I made this oreo cheesecake for mine and Lori's birthdays.
For the recipe, visit http://besteverrecipecollection.blogspot.com/2010/08/oreo-cheesecake.html

Robert, Ryan, Eric, Lori, and I went to the Marietta Diner to celebrate. What an incredible restaurant! I want to go back there sometime! The menu is huge! I ordered moussaka, a international favorite of mine.

Mom took me to Plates in Carrollton for my birthday lunch. Their sweet potato fries are quite tasty! Olivia thought so too:)

Sawyer's 5th Birthday

2010-09-14T09:27:00.001-07:00

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International Prayer Tea

2010-09-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-01T10:46:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-25T10:36:00.000-07:00

brother and sister in helmets :)

wearing her STARband for Plagiocephaly

2010-08-24T08:15:00.000-07:00

Olivia got her STARband helmet yesterday. She is being treated at Children's Health Care of Atlanta at Scottish Rite. All of the employees at Scottish Rite have been extremely nice and helpful!

Information below is taken from: http://www.starbandkids.com

The STARband is an effective treatment for babies between 3 and 18 months of age, and has been successfully used to treat babies with head shape problems since 2001.

Correction usually occurs within 3-6 months when the baby begins orthotic treatment before 12 months of age.

The baby's active growth is a dynamic component of the treatment. Compliance to the twenty-three hour per day wearing schedule is crucial to a successful outcome.

Besides torticollis, another postnatal cause of deformational plagiocephaly occurs when the back of the baby's head rests for prolonged periods of time against a hard surface like an infant carrier, car seat, swing, or stroller. Before 1992, babies were put to sleep on their tummies, which varied the amount of pressure on the back of the head. However, since the very successful "Back to Sleep" program was initiated in an effort to end Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), babies now spend all night on their backs until they are able to roll and reposition themselves. The Back to Sleep program has dramatically reduced the incidence of SIDS and is one of the most effective health programs ever initiated. Unfortunately, the combination of the carriers we use to hold and position our babies during the day and placing babies to sleep on their backs all night has increased the potential for the development of head shape deformities. Practitioners and caregivers should support the American Academy of Pediatrics Back to Sleep Program and encourage tummy time during the day while the baby is awake and supervised in order to minimize the effects of continuous spine positioning on the head.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T10:18:00.001-07:00

Multitude Monday - "Overflowing with Thankfulness"

2010-08-16T07:30:00.000-07:00

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
Colossians 2:6-7

Today I am "overflowing with thankfulness" to God for the joy that my children bring me!

Remembering Papa Mattox

2010-08-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

Today is my Papa (Jimmy) Mattox's birthday. He passed away while we were living overseas. I miss him, and especially today on his birthday. I am thankful for the memories and pictures that I have to hold on to.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

blackberries at Pop's

Multitude Monday

2010-08-09T13:43:00.001-07:00

Giving thanks this day...
~for my son's excitement about his new school
~for my husband's employment
~for my baby girl's cute drooly face smiling up at me
~for a completely free (used, but still working) washer and dryer set that we are undeserving of
~for delicious vegetables and fruit given to us from gardens
~for the peace that passes all understanding (Phil.4:7)

For this and more I praise you, my Lord Jesus Christ.

baby shower for Jamie

2010-08-04T14:04:00.000-07:00

Last week I gave a baby shower for my dear friend Jamie. She is expecting her second little boy next month. It was a great time of fellowship with friends that I had not seen in a long time!

I WON!

2010-07-14T12:51:00.000-07:00

Look at this beautiful painting that I won!! I'm so excited! The artist of this gorgeous canvas painting is Terri Smith, from Bonaire, Georgia. Check out her website: http://www.dimplesdragonflies.com/ and her Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/dimplesdragonflies

a finished quilt

2010-07-09T12:29:00.000-07:00

Here is Olivia on her quilt that I made.

I finally finished this quilt that I started several years ago. The binding, which is the most timely part of quilting, is finished, Yey! When I started this quilt, I had said that I was making it for my little girl one day. At that time I didn't have a daughter but I do now! So the quilt is for Olivia! A big THANK YOU to Penny, Jessica, and Robyn that all helped teach me about quilting!

Georgia's Hidden Treasures Features Toccoa Falls

2010-07-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

Toccoa Falls College, where I attended from 1999-2003, was featured on Atlanta's Channel 2. I hope you enjoy watching this video clip about the beautiful waterfall on the campus. I want to take Sawyer and Olivia to see it one day.

Gratitude Monday: Lifestyle of Worship

2010-06-28T05:06:00.000-07:00

I am thankful that, as believers and followers of Jesus Christ, we have the Holy Spirit indwelling us that enables us to have a lifestyle of worship.

For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Ephesians 2:18

Yesterday the sermon was about worship...such good teaching! The Lord really spoke through Pastor Kevin to teach us much. I can't resist sharing some of my sermon notes with you. I want to review them anyway.

The Worship War
Deuteronomy 6:4-9

Satan brings idols into our lives to distract us from worship. Worship is a verb.

1. The Purpose of Worship
Deuteronomy 6:4 (New International Version)
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.
Who is the receiver? God and God alone
God is attainable to us. He is worthy of worship.

2. The Pursuit of Worship
Deuteronomy 6:5-6 (New International Version)
Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts.
Everyone is a worshipper. Worship happens in malls, in cars, in stadiums, everywhere.
Romans 1:25 (New International Version)
They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.
When you are standing in line at Walmart, God is giving you an opportunity to worship. Worship is a constant opportunity.
When you don't pursue true worship, false worship will pursue you! Where are your priorities? We will become like what we worship.

3. The Perception of Worship
Worship is a lifestyle. God created worship for himself but we often make it be about ourselves. We serve an audience of one!
True worship is not a performance. It's a practice.
Feelings go up and down. Don't base your worship on feelings.
Worship is not about our words, but about our walk.

4. The Power of Worship
Our worship is influential. How will my family be affected by how I worship?
Psalm 102:18 (New International Version)
Let this be written for a future generation,
that a people not yet created may praise the LORD

Deuteronomy 6:7 (New International Version)
Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

Five Worship Applications:
1. True Worship can only take place in the life of a surrendered believer.
2. True Worship should flow from who we are.
3. True Worship should be shared with others. (Deut.6:7)
4. True Worship should be constantly visible.
5. When it comes to worship, your past does not have to determine your present or future.

Isaiah 43:18-19 (New International Version)

18 "Forget the former things;
do not dwell on the past.
19 See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the desert
and streams in the wasteland.

So Long Insecurity: Beth Moore

2010-06-25T11:37:00.000-07:00

I just bought this book last night and I'm so excited to start reading it! I'm going to be meeting with a group on Wednesday nights to discuss the chapters. I'll be writing blog posts about what I learn about my insecurities...should be interesting:)

*You may want to mute my music playlist at the bottom of the page before you start watching.

Gratitude Monday

2010-06-21T11:01:00.000-07:00

So much to be thankful for today and always....

Thank you to Eric, my wonderful husband, for being an outstanding father to our two children. We had a great Father's Day yesterday. He chose Papa John's Pizza for dinner-- great for him and great for me (no cooking)!:)

Also I'm thankful for the vacation that the children and I took last week with my mom. Also my Nana, aunt, uncle, and cousins were there! We went to Daytona Beach, Florida. Here are the beach pictures.

my mother, Teresa, with Sawyer & Olivia

4 generations: my Nana, Carolyn, momma, me, Sawyer & Olivia

me & momma

me & Nana

Our love to God

2010-06-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

My devotional asked me this question:

How will you show God that you love him more than any person, place or thing?

I've been pondering this question. It's a good one. I think for me, the answer is obedience. Obedience to God. Obedience to His Word. It's not always easy but I know that it shows Him our love. I know I sin every day, but when I strive to obey His Word I feel like I am showing Him love. What about you? How would you answer the question? Feel free to leave a comment.

Gratitude Monday

2010-06-07T09:46:00.000-07:00

Giving gratitude to God this day for all the dear friends that He puts in our lives.

new and old

far and near

Proverbs 27:9 (New International Version)
Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart,
and the pleasantness of one's friend springs from his earnest counsel.

WMU at Midway

2010-06-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

Eric and I spoke last night at WMU at Midway Macedonia Baptist Church. Here are a couple of pictures.

Happy Memorial Day

2010-05-31T06:45:00.000-07:00

Eric writes:
Take time today to thank the Lord Almighty for our freedom, to ponder the high cost for those freedoms, to be thankful for the ones that paid that cost. Let us honor HIM and them by wisely utilizing the gifts (what we sometimes misconstrue as rights or entitlements) that come with that freedom. God blesses America, so let America bless God!

Another song- can you guess?

2010-05-29T18:54:00.001-07:00

Bozje Glas 2
Originally uploaded by Eric and Jill

Here's another song. It is being sung in Macedonian but you should recognize the tune. Leave a comment if you know what it is.

Guess the song!

2010-05-29T18:52:00.001-07:00

Bozje Glas
Originally uploaded by Eric and Jill

We miss our church in Macedonia. Here are a couple of video clips I took the last Sunday we were there. Just for fun-- listen to this song and see if you can guess what it is. Put your guess in the comment section. It is one that most of us grew up singing in church.

Best Ever Recipe Collection - a new blog

2010-05-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

Just this week I have started a recipe blog. Please visit http://besteverrecipecollection.blogspot.com
New recipes will be added weekly. I'm hoping to add a wide variety of recipes to this blog, including family recipes, recipes from friends, and extremely easy recipes that can be cooked by children (with adult supervision of course). I hope you all will enjoy visiting this new blog as much as I have enjoyed working on it! Have a great weekend!

Meren

2010-05-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

Here is “Meren” (form of "Mary"), the beautiful new baby daughter of our friends Severjon and Mamude. They are good friends of ours in Macedonia. I've been praying for Mamude and the baby because there were some health issues.

Meren weighed between 6 ½ - 7 pounds at birth. She has a head full of dark hair. They came home from the hospital today. Praise God for this little baby!

Give it to God & let Him keep it!

2010-05-25T16:06:00.001-07:00

One minute I give my worries over to God and then shortly afterwards I catch myself worrying again. I give it over to Him and then I take it back...give it...take it. Do I feel that I need to worry to remind God that I am in need? Worry does not accomplish anything.

I will choose this day to walk with the Lord and not be tempted by the devil's schemes!

In these days I've been worrying about our finances and Satan has been loving every minute of it. As most of you know, Eric is looking for employment. It's times like this that I can start to understand the hardships that the Roma people constantly go through.

1 Peter 5:7-9 (New International Version)

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

Our small financial suffering is so insignificant compared to others around the world. I have food. I have shelter. I have good health. I am one amazingly blessed woman!

I am choosing to praise God this day and walk with Him with a heart of gratitude. Praise the One who came to die for our sins and give us life eternal!

Where are the Boyds?

2010-05-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

We are in Villa Rica, GA! Here is a picture of the missions house. We are staying here until Eric finds a job and we are able to get our own place. We are thoroughly enjoying the house and the big back yard.

We've been enjoying the back porch and grill.

And here's the backyard and the lake.

The church members put lots of goodies in the house for us and the children, like the exersaucer (picture above) and the cars rug (picture below). We are extremely blessed!

Sawyer is our champion Candy Land player!

Depression...What does the Bible say?

2010-05-18T18:59:00.000-07:00

Depression...Do only the weak have it?...What causes it?...Did people living back in Bible times experience it?...How can those suffering from depression get better?

I know from personal experience that depression is a horrible thing to experience. Back in 2005, shortly after having our son, I experienced Postpartum Depression. It was suppose to be one of the happiest times of my life, but instead, I was filled with anxiety, sadness, loss of appetite, and insomnia. I felt like I was walking around in a fog. Through medication and Biblical counseling, I was able to regain my sound mind and joy in living.

Eric and I started listening to some of Pastor David Reid's sermons online while we were living in Macedonia. They have always been good teaching. A recent sermon series of Pastor Dave's has been about depression. He says that at least 25% of Americans suffer from depression. Women usually display their depression as sadness, but men usually display their depression as anger. Pastor Dave humbly shared his story of suffering with depression last year. He goes into details about how he struggled. In this series, he went through some Old Testament scripture passages about Elijah and Moses to teach how the Bible approaches depression and the treatment of it. I appreciate so much that Pastor Dave is willing to admit his bout with depression when often people just view the weak as suffering with depression. Pastor Dave is a great example that even the most spiritually mature believers can fall into depression. Practical advice is given in this sermon series that everyone should know! Even if you have never struggled with depression personally, I encourage you to listen and learn so that you can help others.

To listen online, go to http://www.peachtreechurch.com/
Click on "Resources" and then "Listen".
There are 5 sermons in the series and they are entitled:
1. Take Heart
2. Rumination Can Ruin You
3. Depression Diagnosis and Treatment
4. Anatomy of a Death Spiral
5. The Neglected Healing of Counseling

Olivia's Dedication on Mother's Day

2010-05-13T06:01:00.001-07:00

Question 3

2010-05-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

In my reflection of my time in Macedonia, I've been answering some questions. Here's question #3. To read question 1 & 2, look under my April posts.

What did I discover about the Roma people during my time in Macedonia?

I discovered that the Roma people are very, very resourceful people. Since they live in great poverty, it is in their instinct to be imaginative with how they use scraps that they find. Eric told me that one of his Roma friends used an old x-ray paper to replace the top on a broken drum head. This is only one example of their resourcefulness!

The Roma are good cooks. They make great soups, bean dishes, pita (a special bread pastry), salads, rice dishes, and meats.

Roma people have an amazing sense of hospitality. They will use their last amount of money to serve guests. They are sad if someone only wants to visit for a short time. The longer the visit, the better.

Roma people are actually really clean people. Despite the filth that we all see on the outside of the mahalas, the inside of their homes are spotless! When they clean their homes, they clean everything. They clear the furniture out of a room and clean thoroughly. They will often paint the inside of the home at least once a year. Their homes are very small, so they want them to be well kept and presentable at all times.

I learned that the prejudice against Roma people by local nationals is deep and long-standing. They are often denied jobs because of their ethnicity. Some of them are very hard workers and want to work and provide for their families. Eric hired some Roma to do a painting job, and they did a wonderful job! They worked hard and took pride in the painting job. Other Roma look for ways to provide for their family; by digging through dumpsters and taking plastic and scrap metals to be recycled. I admire these Roma that work hard.

Most of all, I learned that Roma people are mostly like you and me. Our worldviews may differ but we were all made by God for the purpose of glorifying Him. I was honored to learn more about the Roma people and make friendships with them during our time in Macedonia. Eric and I hope to visit Macedonia again one day, and visit with our dear Roma friends there.

Reunited with Family

2010-05-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

After two years, we were happily reunited with family!

Cousin Tyler & Olivia

Uncle Robert & Olivia

Aunt Lori & Olivia

Our first nice sit-down restaurant meal back in America...MEXICAN!!!! YUM:)

Cousin Alli & Olivia

Grams & Olivia

Nana Carolyn & Olivia

The four of us with Nana Carolyn

4 Generations

MaMa Thomason & Olivia

Pop & Olivia

Pop & Sawyer on the tractor

Aunt Susan & Olivia at the Ila Restaurant

Uncle Dan & Olivia

Sawyer & Buddy

Papa & Olivia

Nana & Sawyer reading Curious George

only a broken stroller and a ripped shirt

2010-05-04T11:31:00.000-07:00

We made it across the "big pond"! Our flights were from Skopje, Macedonia to Vienna, Austria, and then to Washington, D.C., and lastly to Atlanta, Georgia. Everything went very smoothly except a broken stroller and a ripped shirt. Considering the many miles we traveled, we have no complaints! Our first meal in America was at 'Five Guys' in the Dulles Airport in D.C. It was delicious! When we finally arrived in Atlanta we were warmly greeted by Eric's family and some of the members of Peachtree Community Church.

back in America

2010-05-01T05:08:00.000-07:00

We are back in America now! We are living temporarily in Villa Rica, Georgia until Eric finds a job. We still have vonage if anyone wants to call us. We've been visiting with family and enjoying being back. I'll post pictures soon. I do intend on keeping the blog...just gotta think of a different title:)

Hard Goodbyes

2010-04-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

We are saying some hard goodbyes this week. Friends have prepared special meals for us. We feel so loved! God has richly blessed us to have these friendships here in Macedonia and we will miss them all.

Matka Canyon & The Vrelo Cave

2010-04-22T10:54:00.000-07:00

We spent most of today at Matka. Matka (the Macedonian word for "womb") is a canyon and lake just outside of Skopje, Macedonia. We have been to Matka several times, but today was extra special because we went for a boat ride to the cave, and also ate lunch inside a cave! What a fun, adventurous day! Sawyer had a blast!

This shows the inside of the cave restaurant.

Our family inside the cave restaurant at Matka.

This shows the fish holding/growing area. These fish are caught and used for the outdoor Matka restaurant.

Here is someone's summer home on Matka lake.

There are many stalactites in Vrelo Cave at Matka.

According to Wikipedia, Vrelo Cave has many stalactites including a large one in the middle of the cave is known as the "Pine Cone" due to its shape. I think this picture I took must be the large one they are describing on Wikipedia. Do you see the pine cone one on the lower left side?

Look close and you might can see the bats. Besides hearing the awful sound the bats make, it wasn't too creepy. Before we went inside the cave, I asked Sawyer what he thought would be inside. He replied, "Giants!" Also, when we were entering the cave he said, "Mommy be very careful so you don't fall in the water." Isn't he sweet?

This picture shows the light inside the cave that is ran by a generator.

We traveled to the cave in this boat. Eric had already taken this boat ride to the cave before, so he stayed on shore with Olivia while Sawyer and I went.

This huge climber's spike was put at Matka as a memorial for a mountain climber that died while climbing at Matka. Many climbers go to Matka, and we met two today.

We were thankful to get to visit Matka again before leaving Macedonia.

Question 2

2010-04-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

What were my greatest challenges of living overseas?

Picture of homemade waffles & syrup-- both of which I learned how to make overseas.

In this blog post, I want to share some of the struggles I have had living overseas. Let me first say that the joys and delights of living overseas have highly out-weighed the struggles! I am only documenting these challenges for you to read, and for me to remember what my life was like here in Macedonia.

Laundry has been a big challenge for me here. Being without a clothes dryer makes laundry much more time consuming. On hot summer days the clothes dry outside easily; and on very cold days the clothes dry inside our home lying on the heaters. It’s the in-between days (mainly in fall and spring), and those rainy days when the laundry pile seems to grow higher and higher. I wonder if I will ever get caught up. We are accustomed to stiff towels and blue jeans now, even though I use a large amount of fabric softener. I am very thankful that I have had a washing machine because many, many people around the world must wash their clothes by hand (including many of our Roma friends) and hang them out to dry.

Prior to coming to Macedonia, I was starting to feel very confident in my kitchen preparing foods for my family. Once we arrived here, all of that changed! First of all, my kitchen appliances are really small. My mom commented, on one of her visits, that she felt like she was cooking in a play house. Seriously, everything is really small – a small fridge, a small stove and oven, and a small sink. Cooking with Celsius readings and trying to find the ingredients I need for recipes has also been challenging. Many times I have been able to find substitutions to make a meal close to what it would taste like in America. But other times, I just give up and say we’ll wait until we get back to America to eat that particular thing again. These cooking trials have been very good for me, because I’ve learned to cook many things from scratch that I would have never attempted before. For example, I started making my own pancake and waffle syrup because the only kind that is here in the stores is very expensive. Also, since cookies, cakes, and brownie mixes cannot be found here, I started making those from scratch. I learned how to make a delicious cream cheese frosting when I would have normally just bought a can of Pillsbury in the states and been done with it. With all this said, I am not proclaiming at all to be a gourmet chef . . . I am only saying that I am thankful that I was taken out of my cooking comfort zone.

Another challenge aspect to life here in the Balkans is hot water. For our bathroom and kitchen, I must always remember to turn the switch on to pre-heat the water, but to not leave it on too long and run up the power bill. There have been many times that we have forgotten to pre-heat the hot water, and have had to wait a while to get that hot shower we were so badly wanting.

Driving here is quite different than in America. I haven’t been able to psyche myself to try it here. Eric has done well, so I just let him drive us everywhere:) First of all, I’m not confident at driving a stick shift. Second, with the crazy traffic here and how most people drive, I just decided my life would be much less stressful if I just let Eric drive us, or take a taxi or bus.

A spiritual challenge for me has been not having an English speaking church. The music and sermons at Bozje Glas (translation – God’s Voice), where we attend, is all in Macedonian. Therefore, I can only understand some of what is being taught. Thankfully, many of the songs are translations from English songs that I already know, so I can understand many songs. I have missed having a Sunday school class for myself and also for Sawyer.

Family Picture at Kale

2010-04-21T07:37:00.001-07:00

Here's our family in August 2007 on our vision trip to Macedonia.

Now here's our family in 2010! Both of these pictures were taken at Kale, A Turkish Fortress here in Skopje.

Question 1

2010-04-18T01:55:00.000-07:00

What Scripture passages have meant the most to me during my time in Macedonia?

1 Timothy 1:15-17 (New International Version)
15Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

I’m so thankful that God displays his “unlimited patience” in me! He shows me a lot of patience every single day! I have not been worthy to be his ambassador in a foreign land but he graciously allowed it, for which I am thankful to Him.

Philippians 4:4-9 (New International Version)
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

I think Phil. 4:6 is my life verse! In my sinfulness, I am often anxious about things, but God has used my time in Macedonia to remind me over and over again to trust Him. I had to choose to trust Him when we had transportation issues, electricity problems, language and cultural barriers, and more. He is SO trustworthy and I know that I am sinning every time that I doubt Him. I thank Him so much for being my stronghold!

Also this passage has meant a great deal to me because it helps me to put my thoughts into check. Every time I question whether or not I am thinking rightly, I can go through this check list and ask myself, “Is it true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy?”. If it is not, then I simply don’t need to focus my thoughts, time, and energy on them.

Jonah 2:8-9 (New International Version)
8 "Those who cling to worthless idols
forfeit the grace that could be theirs.
9 But I, with a song of thanksgiving,
will sacrifice to you.
What I have vowed I will make good.
Salvation comes from the LORD."

The Lord spoke to me this morning through these verses. There are a lot of things that I want once we return to the states. God reminded me through this scripture that there is nothing wrong with having these desires as long as they do not become idols in my life. I must be able to live contently without them. Contentment…contentment…contentment…what a valuable trait and what a God-honoring trait we should all strive for in life! Am I willing to be like Paul in Philippians 4:11-13?

Philippians 4:11-13 (New International Version)
11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

New Center

2010-04-11T00:45:00.000-07:00

In this picture: John (left), Eric (middle), and Andy (right)

We had a great group of Lifeway volunteers here last week. Our team has rented a new building to be used for sewing classes, English classes, and Bible study. Here Eric is scrapping old wallpaper off the wall. They also bleached the walls to get the mold off. The new center should be ready by the end of this month.

If you want to read more about what the Lifeway volunteers did and experienced here, check out this awesome blog http://www.thedukesblog.com/The_Dukes_Blog/macedonia.html

Our last holiday in Macedonia

2010-04-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

Here Olivia is wearing her beautiful Easter dress from Grams. I can't get her to smile when I'm taking pictures because she is looking very intently at the camera. :)

Pepi gave Sawyer this chocolate Easter egg. There was a toy car inside!

Neighbors brought by red Easter eggs for the children. The red coloring stands for the blood of Jesus.

With only a little more than three weeks left for us in Macedonia, Easter was the last holiday that we will celebrate here. It was a very non-traditional Easter for us but it was still nice. We had a great Easter service with the Lifeway team that is here. The worship and teaching were led by our dear friend B. Afterwards, we ate sandwiches and chips with the team and then headed home for a picnic in the back yard with our landlords Evka and Blaze.

The custom of the Orthodox Macedonians is to go to the church the night before Easter. They walk around the church three times and then crack and eat eggs. That is what my neighbors were doing Saturday night.

This year, once again, our family continued our tradition of using the Resurrection Eggs with Sawyer. He absolutely loves them and we are just hoping that the truth of the gospel is sinking into his little heart.

Why?

2010-04-01T02:21:00.000-07:00

This song has touched my heart so deeply that I want to share it with all of you. Let's worship our Risen Savior and never forget His sacrifice.
Easter Blessings to you, Jill

Easter Joy

2010-03-28T01:51:00.001-07:00

Customize your own free digital greeting card

A soon goodbye

2010-03-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

Our flight to the states is booked for April 28th...only 5 weeks away...mixed emotions are in the air as we begin to say our "good-byes" and prepare ourselves for the next phase of life. Sawyer knows we are going on another big trip soon but I don't think he fully realizes that the "trip" is a "move", and all that entails. He does know that he wants his toy cars to go on this trip, very-very important! Every day he says, "We are going on a trip tomorrow". Aren't children cute when they don't understand time references?

So what I'm asking you...yep, you, the blog reader, is this...

What else would you like to know about our time here in Macedonia? What questions do you have for us? What kinds of pictures would you like to see? Please take a minute to write a message in the comments section or write me an email letting me know what you'd like to hear about or see and I'll do my best to meet your requests.

Boyds in Macedonia - March 2010

2010-03-14T07:58:00.000-07:00

Make your own picture collage

Kemcho's Birthday Party

2010-03-12T05:57:00.001-08:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Mamude

2010-03-10T06:18:00.000-08:00

Here are some video clips of my friend, Mamude, while she is cooking bread. Mamude is a very dear, sweet friend of mine. She is pregnant with their third child. I will miss her when we move back to the states.

Zlokukani

2010-03-07T06:55:00.000-08:00

A new food distribution project has been started in Zlokukani, a small Roma settlement here in Skopje, Macedonia. Many of the poorest families in Zlokukani are given food every Friday. The foods include eggs, potatoes, tomatoes, rice, and other items. The pictures show the families waiting in line.