tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79187622253843579052024-02-19T09:04:14.216-08:00Suddenly SarahSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-19721867628597906012009-09-20T06:21:00.000-07:002009-09-20T06:23:19.521-07:00Paul,<br /><br />Last night while driving home from a big day I looked back in the car to find you asleep in your car seat. You looked so precious. I'm so lucky that you are healthy. So many times we take that for granted. So last night I thanked God for giving you to me.<br /><br />Love you,<br />MommySarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-52585724197335880702009-08-23T11:52:00.001-07:002009-08-23T11:55:06.999-07:00First YearAlmost a month late posting but here is my 1 year letter to Paul.<br /><br />Paul,<br /><br />I can not believe it has been a year since you entered our life. Before you were born a had a lot of people tell me that you would change my life. I knew you would but I didn't know how much. You have had such an impact on your dad and I. I didn't know such love was possible. One day you'll know how I feel.<br /><br />Your first year of life has brought on so many small victories. Sitting up, rolling, crawling, talking, walking. All in which are things a baby does. However, we are so blessed that you are healthy and able to do all of these things with no hesitation.<br /><br />You have fit into our life perfectly. And matter of fact have made life more enjoyable. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child again makes even the simplest of things spectacular. Sometimes as an adult you forget to stop and enjoy things (especially God's things) as a spectacular creation.<br /><br />You are growing so fast. The other day I put you in your car seat and you threw your pacifier. I handed it back to you and you threw it again. I looked at you with those “mother eyes” (I'm sure when you read this later in life you'll know the ones I'm talking about) and said Paul (with some kind of discernment) and you said No and put the pacifier back in your mouth. At age one you already knew the next word that was going to come out of my mouth and decided it wasn't worth it and stuck the pacifier back in your mouth in mutual agreement. Can't wait for what the next few years may bring.<br /><br />Love,<br />Mom<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2pXoECK9CR6Ex5iVSeSpLVHVZleuP3fBbY77OExR9HjjNEKdGA6hRfvXOfwIV9-fiiUJR3JNni3OIkEuPyBhb7nTkT46m_NJgVi5fBUr8zS9TiiRsDwN63M9FYUrWSnxMaHtOplQ2TOs/s1600-h/Paul's+BD-2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2pXoECK9CR6Ex5iVSeSpLVHVZleuP3fBbY77OExR9HjjNEKdGA6hRfvXOfwIV9-fiiUJR3JNni3OIkEuPyBhb7nTkT46m_NJgVi5fBUr8zS9TiiRsDwN63M9FYUrWSnxMaHtOplQ2TOs/s200/Paul's+BD-2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373234544124770898" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1juKTXWkymSMYEZxsV8xsaZppjWCb6ZQZwmC-44MxU-gdfP4obMuDmhelQFwr6oBLWp14Q35uO_Ndkj7NguECoqs2riP0OOvRdtQchVLKnrtu5xXSUYqpITR5J8EYHJ3Q8AJhHBp4JrY/s1600-h/5691_104955091111_508326111_2024176_3626325_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1juKTXWkymSMYEZxsV8xsaZppjWCb6ZQZwmC-44MxU-gdfP4obMuDmhelQFwr6oBLWp14Q35uO_Ndkj7NguECoqs2riP0OOvRdtQchVLKnrtu5xXSUYqpITR5J8EYHJ3Q8AJhHBp4JrY/s200/5691_104955091111_508326111_2024176_3626325_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373234444405026482" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBW19IgFejgpR2DZnkps1r_WFC9dEDwNLnocFxQAWgVC-_w0yJ-LmGyxLelLKdQPEdSI6aC8JoBsOmtyqmTKzrHfijj4dYCot7G18y23gFCMgywYualsJ3VG4OquhyphenhyphenDUbQU-d0n0mmvQ/s1600-h/Paul+in+swing.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBW19IgFejgpR2DZnkps1r_WFC9dEDwNLnocFxQAWgVC-_w0yJ-LmGyxLelLKdQPEdSI6aC8JoBsOmtyqmTKzrHfijj4dYCot7G18y23gFCMgywYualsJ3VG4OquhyphenhyphenDUbQU-d0n0mmvQ/s200/Paul+in+swing.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373234370306309586" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaLLVYVtIQ6x1kcpIAGKISNITTyJnGwdTMBBQ5NZlLTLVfILVJUT47Km9cjoME28gXZHPUmwvqnvU5eIFIqPvQmaUdkmcHysmMuFJmDUWseAzp3Va1KkvyiuAQhOC3Vl8URYjcmHQqew/s1600-h/Paul+a+few+hours+old.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaLLVYVtIQ6x1kcpIAGKISNITTyJnGwdTMBBQ5NZlLTLVfILVJUT47Km9cjoME28gXZHPUmwvqnvU5eIFIqPvQmaUdkmcHysmMuFJmDUWseAzp3Va1KkvyiuAQhOC3Vl8URYjcmHQqew/s200/Paul+a+few+hours+old.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373234294488512018" /></a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-90660837811467795922009-04-05T18:57:00.000-07:002009-04-05T19:06:29.273-07:00Paul,<br /><br /><br />Looking back on some of these letters I realize they are not well written. However, please remember they are written out of love and someday when you are a pre-teen and you think the whole world is against you (including me) may you read them and realize how loved you are. <br /><br />That being said, each day is a new adventure with you. You are growing so fast. Life with you is so much fun. It's exciting to see you discover your world. <br /><br />You and you dad are close "buddies." If daddy is holding you I can usually find you relaxing in his arms playing on the computer or lounging around in a chair. However, some of the sweetest moments are when I see you and daddy sleeping. <br /><br />My favorite moments with you are playing on the floor. Playing on the floor leads to new discovery. But, my all time favorite moment is when you fall asleep in my arms. You look so peaceful. It's the time of day where all my stress melts away and I reflect on being your mom and you being my baby.<br /><br />Love,<br />MommySarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-69195110589294698142009-02-26T03:54:00.000-08:002009-02-26T04:03:53.130-08:00Dear Paul,<br /><br />Six months has flown by. It's amazing watching the world unfold before your eyes. You are experiencing and doing so many new things. You roll to get where you need to go, you can pivot on you stomach, sitting in the highchair and eating is no big task now, playing with toys is becoming more fun, and you can really go to town in your bouncy seat. You have been saying words such as mama, lala, uh oh, and on one occasion and one occasion only did you look at your dad, reach out your hand and say "Da". However, because your dad and I were so excited and tried to get you to say again, you simply won't say it.<br /><br />My prayer life has significantly increased since you have been around. I'm constantly praying for God to keep you safe, to teach me to be a good mother, that you will grow up intelligent, that you will grow up knowing how much your parents love God and therefore may decided to follow him yourself. I love you so very much. I want the best for you. I know that I may not be there to protect you at all times so I ask God to do that for me. I know that sometimes my parenting may fail and I ask God to step in. <br /><br />The bond I have with you is unlike anything I've ever experienced before. I hope that will never change. You will always be my baby.<br /><br />Love,<br />MommySarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-27525120685691227042009-01-23T17:30:00.000-08:002009-01-23T17:48:18.593-08:00Paul,<br /><br />I am way behind on my monthly letters to you. I blame the holidays. You are growing faster and faster each day. It does not seem like almost 6 months ago that we were in the hospital with you.<br /><br />Since the last time I wrote to you, you have explored many new things. You tried your first baby food at Thanksgiving. It was sweet potatoes. It seemed to go well.<br /><br />You experienced your first Christmas with my side of the family and daddy's side of the family. You received many toys and lots of fun stuff. It's no secret that people love you and just couldn't wait to spoil you.<br /><br />New Years came and went. You celebrated New Years Eve by watching Horton Hears a Who. You fell asleep in my arms and your dad and I finished the movie : )<br /><br />Little to your knowledge you were a part of history in the making. The first African American officially became the President Elect on January 20, 2009. I wonder if you will later read his inauguration speech in your history books.<br /><br />As far as development goes you are gradually making progress. You are now rolling from your belly to your back, putting the pacifier in your own mouth, sitting up on your own (for the most part), and trying to become my helper as I feed you baby food. I believe your favorite baby foods so far are pears, oatmeal with apples and bananas, and green beans. <br /><br />Your favorite toy right now is probably a horse with a bouncy seat in the middle that Grandma Rittenour bought for you for Christmas and a toy zoo with lights and sounds that daddy and I bought for you. <br /><br />I am looking forward to the new adventures that month 6 will bring.<br /><br />Love,<br />Mommy<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-P5Gzet7f0H7bPKwFwXEr6tQUioGxdeOuX14XO8PL4SL2HWVGo-8WOxFzb9JovI5VIC2DEq8tje8jg7Kv6QUJ1M7KEvIKdPHLNKUzFlrbs3ZCsxWxI7dTsh-WeyGjOCK9fdlM7e4bHWg/s1600-h/Bathtime1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-P5Gzet7f0H7bPKwFwXEr6tQUioGxdeOuX14XO8PL4SL2HWVGo-8WOxFzb9JovI5VIC2DEq8tje8jg7Kv6QUJ1M7KEvIKdPHLNKUzFlrbs3ZCsxWxI7dTsh-WeyGjOCK9fdlM7e4bHWg/s200/Bathtime1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294671015928927026" /></a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-47065328885641718792008-11-05T15:11:00.001-08:002008-11-05T15:41:26.572-08:00Paul,<br /><br />You are now 3 months old and growing like crazy. At your last doctors appointment on October 31, 2008 you weighed in at a whopping 15 pounds and 2 oz. You have learned to hold your head up, blow amazing spit bubbles, giggle, turn your head when you realize your daddy or myself are in the room, hold your own rattle, and you are trying to sit up but you still have support. You are also trying to roll on your side...you are so close you almost have it. I can't wait for that day! Among the many things you are learning and doing you are also starting to cut your first teeth. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhadeqYgnvFaiRB-_sQeLTyCAJC8hw7B05CHsfCEfYZglJwvBduUl0QAm-DLXg5BIXYcKkt9JOxi-yFKeuVuAJhs0hw75oPDH7ZQA951wPxuC71SWOKLkkngn2ZhZuuEqYB3oRVg5sNlxI/s1600-h/s42850ca111220_7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhadeqYgnvFaiRB-_sQeLTyCAJC8hw7B05CHsfCEfYZglJwvBduUl0QAm-DLXg5BIXYcKkt9JOxi-yFKeuVuAJhs0hw75oPDH7ZQA951wPxuC71SWOKLkkngn2ZhZuuEqYB3oRVg5sNlxI/s200/s42850ca111220_7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265319578093326290" /></a><br /><br />You experienced your first Halloween dressed as a monkey. You looked adorable in your monkey suit. Grandma Kim, Pap, Aunt Lori, Uncle Dave, and Cousin Connor were among your adoring fans that came to see you dressed up and pass out Halloween Candy. You also had a few visitors: Sherry, Danny, Dylan, Lauren, Jenn, Ellie, Silas, and Sarah. You tolerated your costume well. You eventually got bored with Halloween and feel asleep. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKwC-JOCYWXvRq_Y2FviTlDRy3YX7PKGQVsXmO_xuWj44-uVJzDM-9YY6B5_s46cg3PBrQSlOFFforUFtWv079TMZ_15k7xdOZ6__IZEDibyh1FOwTb7nudGUKGLkJIgXGt1jo1cHCY4/s1600-h/Paul+Halloween.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 132px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKwC-JOCYWXvRq_Y2FviTlDRy3YX7PKGQVsXmO_xuWj44-uVJzDM-9YY6B5_s46cg3PBrQSlOFFforUFtWv079TMZ_15k7xdOZ6__IZEDibyh1FOwTb7nudGUKGLkJIgXGt1jo1cHCY4/s200/Paul+Halloween.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265322229541108434" /></a><br /><br />Although you have no idea, you have witnessed a major turning point in our Country. Barack Obama was elected America's first African American president. <br /><br />I am enjoying each month with you. I enjoy watching your many milestones. I am on the sidelines cheering you on as you explore your new world and learn new things!<br /><br />I love you!<br /><br />Love,<br />MommySarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-32284716261054137352008-10-15T19:41:00.001-07:002008-10-15T19:41:18.842-07:00Love will find a way"I have been surprised to find that I am given more life, more hope, more moments of buoyancy and redemption, the more I give up. The more I let go, do without, reduce, the more I feel rich. The more I let people be who they are instead of cramming them into what I need from them, the more surprised I am by their beauty and depth." -Shauna Niequist, Cold Tangerines.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-55779480073241681002008-10-13T16:17:00.000-07:002008-10-13T16:22:03.116-07:00But if we are the Body <br />Why aren't His arms reaching <br />Why aren't His hands healing <br />Why aren't His words teaching <br />And if we are the Body <br />Why aren't His feet going <br />Why is His love not showing them there is a way <br />-Casting Crowns<br /><br />What an interesting weekend! I got a chance this weekend to see why people may love Jesus but don't like the church. <br /><br />*Disclaimer: if you are reading this it probably isn't about you. Please don't take offense to anything I say.<br /><br />With the craziness of the weekend and Steve's message on Sunday I'm asking myself the following questions: <br /><br />How can the church shed this image?<br /><br />How can we show people that being a Christian is a good thing?<br /><br />How can we love no matter what?<br /><br />How can I shed this image?<br /><br />Do people see Jesus through me?<br /><br />What is my hearts desire?<br /><br />Am I filling my life with junk?<br /><br />Do I want to get well?Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-44909993218789424742008-09-25T19:17:00.000-07:002008-09-25T19:18:14.244-07:00How about that!<table style="width: 320px; border: 1px solid gray; font: normal 12px arial, verdana, sans-serif; background-color: white;"><tr><td colspan="2" style="background: white; color: black; padding: 5px;"><b style="font: bold 20px 'Times New Roman', serif; display: block; margin-bottom: 8px;">What NBC "The Office" character are you?</b> <div style="font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 4px;">Your Result: <b>Jim Halpert</b></div><div style="width: 200px; background: white; border: 1px solid black;"><div style="width: 77%; background: red; font-size: 8px; line-height: 8px;"> </div></div><p style="margin: 10px; border: none; background: white; color: black;">You are the kind of person that everyone likes. You are funny, laid back, and not bad looking. You love practical jokes and having a fun time with your friends. However, because you are so laid back you often let the things that are most important to you get away. <br /><br />I miss Dwight. Congratulations Universe, you win.<br /></p></td></tr><tr><td style="color: black; background: white; padding: 3px;">Toby Flenderson</td><td style="background: white; padding: 3px;"><div style="width: 100px; background: white; border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 4px;"><div style="width: 50%; background: red; font-size: 8px; line-height: 8px;"> </div></div></td></tr><tr><td style="color: black; background: white; padding: 3px;">Pam Beesly</td><td style="background: white; padding: 3px;"><div style="width: 100px; background: white; border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 4px;"><div style="width: 47%; background: red; font-size: 8px; line-height: 8px;"> </div></div></td></tr><tr><td style="color: black; background: white; padding: 3px;">Angela Martin</td><td style="background: white; padding: 3px;"><div style="width: 100px; background: white; border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 4px;"><div style="width: 41%; background: red; font-size: 8px; line-height: 8px;"> </div></div></td></tr><tr><td style="color: black; background: white; padding: 3px;">Dwight Kurt Schrute</td><td style="background: white; padding: 3px;"><div style="width: 100px; background: white; border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 4px;"><div style="width: 34%; background: red; font-size: 8px; line-height: 8px;"> </div></div></td></tr><tr><td style="color: black; background: white; padding: 3px;">Kelly Kapoor</td><td style="background: white; padding: 3px;"><div style="width: 100px; background: white; border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 4px;"><div style="width: 11%; background: red; font-size: 8px; line-height: 8px;"> </div></div></td></tr><tr><td style="color: black; background: white; padding: 3px;">Ryan Howard</td><td style="background: white; padding: 3px;"><div style="width: 100px; background: white; border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 4px;"><div style="width: 9%; background: red; font-size: 8px; line-height: 8px;"> </div></div></td></tr><tr><td style="color: black; background: white; padding: 3px;">Michael Scott</td><td style="background: white; padding: 3px;"><div style="width: 100px; background: white; border: 1px solid black; margin-top: 4px;"><div style="width: 0%; background: red; font-size: 8px; line-height: 8px;"> </div></div></td></tr><tr><td colspan="2" style="text-align: center; padding: 8px;"><a href="http://www.gotoquiz.com/what_nbc_the_office_character_are_you"><b>What NBC "The Office" character are you?</b></a><br><a href="http://www.gotoquiz.com/">Quiz Created on GoToQuiz</a></td></tr></table>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-71645919662838902492008-09-19T11:22:00.001-07:002008-09-20T06:24:36.513-07:00To Paul<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kEZwNC9_QlkXSM5VjTWbvI8fijJ7c8irp3U_Ia0KrmiKoJ7F88F_3kybtgJW0plZQzKKH-TE5xSMQ3qAdYw2SS1jURyUvjDL3pCLfcpkWVJUZO3SXl01v27Gju4sxdx5H5aXlA33kI4/s1600-h/IMG_0087.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kEZwNC9_QlkXSM5VjTWbvI8fijJ7c8irp3U_Ia0KrmiKoJ7F88F_3kybtgJW0plZQzKKH-TE5xSMQ3qAdYw2SS1jURyUvjDL3pCLfcpkWVJUZO3SXl01v27Gju4sxdx5H5aXlA33kI4/s200/IMG_0087.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247937824392768242" /></a><br /><br /><br />Paul,<br /><br />Everyday I watch you grow with such amazement. I can’t believe your dad and I created something so beautiful. You are the hardest most rewarding job I have ever had. I don’t know if it is even a job…it’s a privilege. I am privileged to be your mommy. Everyday I pray for you. I pray that you will be a respectable, loving, intelligent, sincere, empathetic, courageous, thoughtful, God loving man. I pray that I will teach you to treat others kindly and to always stand up for what you believe in. <br /><br />I love you more than anything in this whole world. A parents love is something I can’t describe. It’s a deeper more passionate love. It’s a love I’ve never experienced before. You will understand someday when you have your own children.<br /><br />I love that the moment you were born you recognized my voice. I love having such a connection with you. Although sometimes it is tiring I love feeling so needed. I hope that I raise you to be an independent man but I hope that you always make me feel needed in some way. <br /><br />You are my heart and soul!<br /><br />Love,<br />MommySarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-87719217557692373952008-09-19T11:22:00.000-07:002008-09-19T20:32:10.197-07:00A Pirates Life for Me!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Upei9EXzAQ828WnxDCZrQcK5Csw8BG9HuwTsd8k4b017XCeLL-mLvkYvvI_uKMFUerQJHN68PgcmekmzwkcbMj57vX4vs-CrO3OOEy_hVYQ3Drn_LWWs9-5gq58VhizBv9C-jVUJO-I/s1600-h/IMG_0424.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Upei9EXzAQ828WnxDCZrQcK5Csw8BG9HuwTsd8k4b017XCeLL-mLvkYvvI_uKMFUerQJHN68PgcmekmzwkcbMj57vX4vs-CrO3OOEy_hVYQ3Drn_LWWs9-5gq58VhizBv9C-jVUJO-I/s200/IMG_0424.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247799967240309186" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="position:relative; border-width:1px; border-color:332200; border-style: solid; background-color:c9b390; padding:0 10px; width:400px; text-align:center; font-family:serif; left:50%; margin:25px 0 25px -200px; color:332200;"><br /> <div><br /> My pirate name is:<br /> </div><br /> <div style="font-size:32px;"><br /> Iron Mary Bonney </div><br /> <img src="http://www.piratequiz.com/flag.gif" style="top:5px; position:relative; display:block; width:100px; background-color:332200;" /><br /> <div style="left:110px; top:-60px; width:290px; position:relative; text-align: justify;"><br /> A pirate's life isn't easy; it takes a tough person. That's okay with you, though, since you a tough person. You can be a little bit unpredictable, but a pirate's life is far from full of certainties, so that fits in pretty well. Arr!<br /> </div><br /> <a href="http://www.piratequiz.com/" style="position:absolute; width:100%; left:0px; bottom:20px; color:f8eecc;">Get your own pirate name from piratequiz.com.</a><br />part of the fidius.org network<br /> </div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-5061888646716344012008-08-27T08:10:00.000-07:002008-08-27T08:16:32.826-07:00Wish you were hereWell, it's offical. The graduated seniors that were in the youth group are starting college. I miss them. They feel like extended family members. Little brothers and sisters. For them I have this quote:<br /><br />"You'll get mixed up, of course,<br />as you already know.<br />You'll get mixed up<br />with many strange birds as you go.<br />So be sure when you step.<br />Step with care and great tact<br />and remeber that Life's<br />a Great Balancing Act.<br />Just never forget to be dexterous and deft.<br />And <em>never</em> mix up your right foot with your left.<br /><br />And you will succeed?<br />Yes! You will indeed!<br />(98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)<br />KID YOU'LL MOVE MOUNTAINS!<br /><br />So...<br />be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray<br />or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O'Shea,<br />you're off to Great Places!<br />Today is your day!<br />Your mountain is waiting.<br />So...get on your way!"<br /><br />-Oh the Places You'll Go, Dr. SeussSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-6428829404245100712008-08-23T18:10:00.001-07:002008-08-23T18:13:54.126-07:00Blessed<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwKzEFO_cs01cdcpYiM8gFj2Gq-h6fUQwDQrzfbMRYp66y_TekP-4HyDUfpaUuMAioRRkqv4KR4i5wQ1JFbAxEN6iR8ORoJmz0HQYjEoag1Y308Ina9w7Z3GRttrpu6UmbBcHDCtg4hY/s1600-h/IMG_0722.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwKzEFO_cs01cdcpYiM8gFj2Gq-h6fUQwDQrzfbMRYp66y_TekP-4HyDUfpaUuMAioRRkqv4KR4i5wQ1JFbAxEN6iR8ORoJmz0HQYjEoag1Y308Ina9w7Z3GRttrpu6UmbBcHDCtg4hY/s200/IMG_0722.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237886185329152370" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga9j15pzngLvxbWPX9fSOwla_ANSYHoe62mxsbxmGSyGOoNNrKhDYcloKLvHJmJmzBx-MXjbYHsdybS8iG41Ul1gSCRoF8wuCMJb3CCgWaFDYzTN_V9uPfmu87ohSwXlTShRG_sEHlhrc/s1600-h/IMG_0787.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga9j15pzngLvxbWPX9fSOwla_ANSYHoe62mxsbxmGSyGOoNNrKhDYcloKLvHJmJmzBx-MXjbYHsdybS8iG41Ul1gSCRoF8wuCMJb3CCgWaFDYzTN_V9uPfmu87ohSwXlTShRG_sEHlhrc/s200/IMG_0787.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237886186619299538" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh4d6sb3YtS8S6KDjCO0EyoR82C_CCTGa83w-nBk3j-8gAw5bTUbdQr9m3WxYcV5zIg12haIOEIzW_2fu601leBUHHeQzzsZ7qxlKBMvRxg5Ow26BgtDKCoDWhI_DFQqTA8YN7T7jIOp8/s1600-h/IMG_0808.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh4d6sb3YtS8S6KDjCO0EyoR82C_CCTGa83w-nBk3j-8gAw5bTUbdQr9m3WxYcV5zIg12haIOEIzW_2fu601leBUHHeQzzsZ7qxlKBMvRxg5Ow26BgtDKCoDWhI_DFQqTA8YN7T7jIOp8/s200/IMG_0808.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237886191738596450" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_TADpJI70qU3WhUGr6i7EYkd0mlU2uQM9QPwSqvOCu7OU-DG9O89C0csbAM3D1Y8Is_Zn4mqEz41mNZeyJZ9bthdetb_LVEhPH-k-6l0qx66a1OcRnM5CipRjXH-W2xVjmmr7TFi-b0/s1600-h/IMG_0810.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_TADpJI70qU3WhUGr6i7EYkd0mlU2uQM9QPwSqvOCu7OU-DG9O89C0csbAM3D1Y8Is_Zn4mqEz41mNZeyJZ9bthdetb_LVEhPH-k-6l0qx66a1OcRnM5CipRjXH-W2xVjmmr7TFi-b0/s200/IMG_0810.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237886197428365186" /></a><br />Thank you Lord!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-35590900620617589032008-08-12T12:51:00.000-07:002008-08-12T12:55:38.935-07:00MommyvilleThings I have learned in my first few weeks of being a mom:<br /><br />1. Little boys can not be trusted.<br /><br />2. Babies can pee as much as grown ups. Pee can fly across a room.<br /><br />3. If I cup my hands together it makes a great pee catcher.<br /><br />4. There is such a thing as a poop volcano. <br /><br />5. While being a mom you never reach a sound sleep. Any little noise makes your mom-dar go off. <br /><br />6. You will do ANYTHING when it comes to your baby.<br /><br />7. It's ok to ask for help.<br /><br />8. You can pray several times a day for someone other than yourself. <br /><br />9. Sleep is overrated.<br /><br />10. There is such a thing as love at first sight.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-1620096036778075242008-07-05T19:10:00.001-07:002008-07-05T19:26:45.739-07:00EmmausLast weekend I took my journey to Emmaus. For those of you are not sure what Emmaus means you can look up a brief description here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmaus_Walk<br /><br />There are so many stories I wish I could share but I can't. I can't because if anyone reading this would want to experience it and I told about my experience it would ruin things. I can say that what I experienced last weekend is almost unexplainable. I've waited a week and I'm still not sure I have the words for it. I'm not sure I'll ever find the words. <br /><br />I know that since last weekend God has been working on my heart tremendously. I don't feel like the same person and I certainly hope that I am not. However, I think this is going to be a process. Almost a cleansing process of my heart. <br /><br />I thought I knew how a Christian should act, dress, pray, ect... little did I know I had no idea the heart of Jesus. I had it all wrong. There are many people I wish I could go back and apologize to for the way I acted and for the views I so strongly fought. I had no idea how stubborn I was being or how wrong I was. I felt an overwhelming love by other Christians last weekend. I felt the overwhelming love of God and Jesus and I can only say I strive to be more like that. I actually truly and undoubtedly have a knew passion in my heart...to truly and tenderheartedly love others. <br /><br />"I might believe in the Redeemer if His followers looked more Redeemed." <br />-Fredrick Nietczshe<br /><br />My prayer is that Jesus helps me everyday to be more and more like him. I am far far away from perfect. I will never be perfect. I am just merely striving to have a closer relationship, a stronger faith, and a better heart.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-33017289114034914292008-05-18T18:55:00.000-07:002008-05-18T19:06:24.514-07:00UpdateSo I haven't blogged in awhile and thought I'd give it a shot again. I'm not sure if anyone really follows my blog but for those of you who might here is an update.<br /><br />1. I'm glad for the green on the trees, the flowers in the ground, and that it is finally starting to warm up outside. <br /><br />2. For those of you that don't know...Brian and I moved so things have been kinda crazy for us lately. <br /><br />3. I'm trying to take down wallpaper so Brian can paint the nursery (the nursery will have a monkey theme). <br /><br />4. I am in my 3rd trimester of pregnancy. I really enjoy the pregnancy but can't wait for the conversation to be off of the size of my stomach. lol! We are 97% we are going to name the baby Paul. We do not have a middle name picked out yet. And finally, yes I'm nervous about getting him home but can't wait to have him here! <br /><br />5. I'm really enjoying Monday night small group at the church. If you aren't going you are missing out on some good discussion.<br /><br />6. I am really enjoying the youth group. I am so sad about the seniors graduating this coming Sunday. I'm so attached. I don't even think most of them know how much I love them and how proud I am of them. They are such a special group of kids! <br /><br />So, that's a quick update. I hope everyone is enjoying the weather!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-56353846678192936972008-03-27T06:49:00.000-07:002008-03-27T06:50:08.465-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.quiztron.com/tests/color_is_soul_painte_quiz_23687.htm"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px;" src="http://www.quiztron.com/tests/color_is_soul_painte_quiz_23687.htm" border="0" alt="" /></a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-63806789181160387422008-03-21T20:42:00.001-07:002008-03-24T18:39:55.917-07:00I had to play along<p><img src="http://bluepyramid.org/ia/itwjlrel.jpg"><br><br /><font face="Georgia, Georgia Ref, Book Antiqua, Garamond" size="5"><br />You're <i>Inherit the Wind</i>!<br><br /><font size="4">by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee</font><br><br /><i><font size="3">To you, the learning process is inherently about controversy. If<br />people aren't having their minds stretched, how could they possibly be learning? This<br />makes you a good but unpopular teacher, and the people around you are ready to make it<br />a federal case. All you're asking them to do is evolve a little. But they would like<br />you to be more creative. You would make an excellent lawyer, even though people think<br />you love monkeys.</font><br><br /><font size="2" face="Times New Roman"></i><br />Take the <a href="http://bluepyramid.org/ia/bquiz.htm">Book Quiz</a><br />at the <a href="http://bluepyramid.org">Blue Pyramid</a>.</font></font></p><br /><br />Lawyer...hmmm...imagine that. I must be in the right field of work afterall. And, I do kind of think monkeys are cute....but to think we evolved from them isn't all that flattering.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-51964907529368142562008-03-16T17:51:00.000-07:002008-03-17T10:19:21.411-07:00Baby UpdateI am in my 5th month of pregnancy, exactly 21 weeks. We found out a week ago that we are having a little boy. He made it pretty obvious. Brian and I are very excited. I love being pregnant. I feel the best I have ever felt. I’m also just very glad that I know it is a boy. He is becoming his own little person and I am falling in love with him and I already know it’s a love like I’ve never experienced before. <br /><br />Brian felt what he knew for sure was the baby moving yesterday. That was a pretty exciting experience. It’s amazing how we are starting to evolve into feeling like parents.<br /><br />Now on to the big question…what are we going to name him? Answer: we have no clue. It’s not that we haven’t put thought into it. We have put a lot of thought into this but we just don’t have an answer. We have looked through baby books and nothing just stands out and says “That’s it!” Our heritage is German, Irish, English, and Scottish for the most part. We also like Biblical names. Any suggestions?Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-51863543260015918402008-03-13T07:41:00.000-07:002008-03-13T07:43:05.968-07:00I am a ChristianChristians<br />By Maya Angelou<br /><br />When I say..."I am a Christian"<br />I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'."<br />I'm whispering "I was lost,<br />Now I'm found and forgiven."<br /><br />When I say..."I am a Christian"<br />I don't speak of this with pride.<br />I'm confessing that I stumble<br />and need Christ to be my guide.<br /><br />When I say..."I am a Christian"<br />I'm not trying to be strong.<br />I'm professing that I'm weak<br />And need His strength to carry on.<br /><br />When I say..."I am a Christian"<br />I'm not bragging of success.<br />I'm admitting I have failed<br />And need God to clean my mess.<br /><br />When I say..."I am a Christian"<br />I'm not claiming to be perfect,<br />My flaws are far too visible<br />But, God believes I am worth it.<br /><br />When I say..."I am a Christian"<br />I still feel the sting of pain.<br />I have my share of heartaches<br />So I call upon His name.<br /><br />When I say..."I am a Christian"<br />I'm not holier than thou,<br />I'm just a simple sinner<br />Who received God's good grace, somehow!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-6854422723606084192008-03-11T19:58:00.000-07:002008-03-11T20:08:47.046-07:00Don't Worry, Be HappyWhat am I doing right now? Not sleeping. Why? Because I'm really busy worrying about everything. By everything I really do mean everything. I come from a long line of worriers. I worry over everything...all minor and major details have to be taken into consideration. I know I know..."Give it to God." I have trust me, I really have. Yet I still worry. It's an obsession of mine. I'm obsessed with worrying...how dumb is that?<br /><br />I've just had some of those days lately. Days that are really bad but have their good days in between. You know the days where everything you touch just rots right there in front of you? I feel like a can't do anything right. So many expectations and so little time to fill all those expectations. And, do you ever try to please someone so much that you just screw it up? I've went about pleasing people in all the wrong ways lately. I assumed what they wanted. It wasn't what they wanted and now I'm worrying about fixing all of that! To others it's probably no big deal...to me and my pregnant mind...END-O'-THE-WORLD! <br /><br />*Sigh*<br /><br />Drag your thoughts away from your troubles... by the ears, by the heels, or any other way you can manage it. ~Mark TwainSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-48214337751011775102008-02-21T13:12:00.000-08:002008-02-22T06:51:04.825-08:00What's with the snow?I'm so ready for spring. I miss sunshine, flowers, renewal. I am so bored with the snow. It's pretty for awhile and then it turns to muck and it's dangerous. I feel like a flightless bird.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-81151347907708190812008-02-19T12:03:00.000-08:002008-02-19T12:07:08.753-08:00You be the judge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://potomacnews.mgblogs.com/images/uploads/Mark-Cuban.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://potomacnews.mgblogs.com/images/uploads/Mark-Cuban.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Billionaire Mark Cuban...a possible Steve Good impersonator?Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-24496966289886674712008-02-09T19:39:00.000-08:002008-02-09T19:48:56.577-08:00PregnancyI'm not really sure how to start out this post. I just want to talk about being pregnant and the joys and effects. I feel so blessed and so completely amazed that I am going to be a parent. How could this human being be forming in me? I am holding a life. Wow! A life! I've never wanted so many random things from double cheeseburgers, to thinking the existence of a hamburger was repulsive, to Doritos and melted cheese, then lucky charms and chocolate milk, and now I believe I still like the Chocolate milk but I would have to say Cardo's Salad with ranch is a new craving. I also am in love with boneless Honey B.B.Q. wings from Buffalo Wild Wings.<br /><br />I generally enjoy being pregnant. However, I don't like the comments of "wow you look huge" and "are you having twins'? For the record I'm not having twins and this question makes me want to dig a hole, sit in it for awhile, cry, and then return to normal life lol! <br /><br />I'm just generally in awe. I can't believe this miracle. I'm completely amazed by God's work. Feeling this tiny baby move I think to myself...how can anyone deny there is a God?Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7918762225384357905.post-2058949034530328062008-02-07T18:20:00.000-08:002008-02-07T18:37:27.969-08:00This is for Eli.<br /><br />1. One book that changed your life<br /><br />I would have to give the typical answer here and say the Bible. I would also like to add Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell. <br /><br />2. One book you’ve read more than once<br /><br />Vanished by Tess Grisham. Yes, it was twisted but that's why I liked it.<br /><br />I am in the process of rereading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell.<br /><br />3. One book you’d want on a desert island<br /><br />Again I would say the Bible. Maybe I could find a certain prayer that would help me get off the island.<br /><br /><br />4. Two books that made you laugh<br /><br />A Light in the Attic by Shel Silverstein.<br /><br /><br />5. One book that made you cry<br /><br />The Color Purple by Alice Walker and The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold.<br /><br /><br />6. One book you wish had been written<br /><br />I am with Eli on this...Steve Good needs to write a book.<br /><br /><br />7. One book you wish had never been written<br /><br />I don't tend to read books that I wish would have never been written. However, Brian and I were in Borders and there was a book about how to grow marijuana...kind of dumb especially since you know growing it is actually illegal! <br /><br /><br />8. One book you’re currently reading<br /><br />They Like Jesus but Not the Church by Dan Kimball; rereading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell; What to Expect When you are Excepting by Heidi Murkoff, Arlene Eisenberg & Sandee Hathaway.<br /><br /><br />9. One book you’ve been meaning to read<br /><br />Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert.<br /><br /><br />Here is my Tag List:<br /><br />Jaki, Jodi, Steve, Laura, Sarah Cornish, and John Williams.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05991315694033279984noreply@blogger.com0