tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35788366148976625362024-03-04T20:48:10.381-08:00 Virtuous LivingLaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.comBlogger479125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-75717449585885848882016-11-11T17:53:00.001-08:002016-11-11T17:54:37.602-08:00The Silent Epidemic Part 2 ~ Beauty for AshesBelow is a video created by my very brave and amazing sister-friend. The video tells the story of her experience with domestic violence as well as the wonder of how God has delivered her and given her beauty for ashes! <br />
<br />
"To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory." -Isaiah 61:3<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HpEfMZST6Cw" width="560"></iframe><center>
</center>
</center>
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-11924100166472651412016-10-26T19:33:00.000-07:002016-11-11T17:55:51.842-08:00The Silent Epidemic, Part 1 ~ Domestic Violence Awareness With October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a friend and I decided to partner to shed light on the issue via an interview about her exprience in an abusive marriage. In addition, we hoped to break through the silence around how this epidemic is often viewed and/or handled by the church.<br />
<br />
Check out the interview below and feel free to leave a comment!<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iaPZNkvSQQ0" width="560"></iframe><center>
</center>
</center>
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-79130405386095325052016-08-22T08:40:00.002-07:002016-08-22T11:03:21.938-07:00In which I become a free woman.<div style="text-align: justify;">
After a week of intense preparation and checking off supplies from my four (very long) lists of supplies, I saw my kiddos off for their first day of school! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This year is quite significant as it is the first year that all four of the children will be in school for a full day! Yes. You read that correctly- This mama will be child-free for about 5 whole hours, 5 days a week! I feel like I might be in a dream, that this really is too good to be true, that someone will be waking me up real soon and breaking the news to me that this was not reality.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In order to fully aprreciate this moment with me, you must understand the extent to which I have sacrificed alone time for the sake of mothering. I have never had a nanny nor a consistent, designated babysitter. Thank God for grandparents and godparents and good friends who have taken the children in so hubby and I could enjoy date nights or even weekend getaways as the kids got older. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Nevertheless, with hubby working full time, guess who has been with the children every day for 95% of the time for almost 11 years. Yep. That would be me. That is not to mention the fact that not one of them has ever set foot in a day care or an after school program or a summer camp, for that matter. Not only that, but I exclusivley breastfed three of them for nearly 18 months each. This meant they slept in the bed with me (usually smack dab in between hubby and I). I forgot what it felt like to have good night's sleep. I had a perpetual crick in my neck. This meant that there was not more than 2-4 hours that I was without them for the first year and a half of their lives. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Needless to say, it got <i>real</i>. My time devoted to mothering has been thrilling as well as intense. Having babies and toddlers in tow often meant <a href="http://virtuouslivingrocks.blogspot.com/2009/10/one-day-i.html">my plans went awry</a>. I have laughed and I have also shed many tears of frustration, sometimes feeling trapped and longing for time alone. I have nurtured. I have cuddled. I have read many books and sang many songs. I have been a madwoman. I have been a "mean mommy" at times. Many an evening, as my husband walked in the house coming from work, I was grabbing car keys and walking out of the house without saying a word. All you heard was the screeching of the car as I wizzed out of the driveway. It seems as though, in some ways, those days are over. And, as crazy, mixed up, and twisted as this may sound: <i>I am a little sad about it.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I guess that is just the paradox that defines motherhood. As much as you want to get away from your kids, you can't stand to be without them. As much as you want them to hurry up and grow up, you miss their tiny little hands and sweet little hugs. I know that no season can last forever. So, although I did cry a few tears today as I thought about how I no longer have any babies at home, I am also looking forward to and leaning into new adventures as a mom and as an <i>individual</i>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here is a photo taken on the first day of school last year. </div>
<br />
Noelle - 4th grade, Bella - 3rd grade, Noah - 1st grade, Halle - Preschool. (2015-2016 School Year)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-jb-dHy3Q0flL52Ld7p-Y09gZzmX7qiH0ic-nL_EvWz1IXrtxDPvk8dPRzD_5VlU4x7peSDjcjYsqAQb1855qu43EEy01F77FVKUV0yF8g5en1Jtz5Zx4qyHKge9W6cL1tPdw40mBbs/s1600/11949286_801365076628218_7766667012782991293_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-jb-dHy3Q0flL52Ld7p-Y09gZzmX7qiH0ic-nL_EvWz1IXrtxDPvk8dPRzD_5VlU4x7peSDjcjYsqAQb1855qu43EEy01F77FVKUV0yF8g5en1Jtz5Zx4qyHKge9W6cL1tPdw40mBbs/s640/11949286_801365076628218_7766667012782991293_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Here is the picture I took of them this morning.<br />
<br />
Noelle - 5th grade, Bella - 4th grade, Noah - 2nd grade, Halle - Kindergarten. (2016-2017 School Year)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzOVVFO-Y2Jh_P8m8o1UhL0PVmfcsunem7k2kkFTvCigIza7Jt3ETAM-My0AyTgLKOOrNfxioz1NClR6-HnTLWFMI6v9FW8YNDXdhl9mkuKFsKjxPGsTmHeJo0utp1KfInTxxsqBGyc0/s1600/14045539_996987263732664_2417950669622878888_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzOVVFO-Y2Jh_P8m8o1UhL0PVmfcsunem7k2kkFTvCigIza7Jt3ETAM-My0AyTgLKOOrNfxioz1NClR6-HnTLWFMI6v9FW8YNDXdhl9mkuKFsKjxPGsTmHeJo0utp1KfInTxxsqBGyc0/s640/14045539_996987263732664_2417950669622878888_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-38284417910078229192016-08-19T12:38:00.001-07:002016-08-19T12:40:22.415-07:00Bedside Bookstack <div style="text-align: justify;">
Raise your hand if you agree that there are not many things better than the beggining stages of digging into a new book. I am with you! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Isn't something how the books we read can become such a central part of who we are? This is especially true of those books we read and re-read over and over again. It's true of those books that become "life reference materials" in which we revisit and reference along various seasons of life. Below is a photo of some of the most defining books that have shaped my current thinking about my relationship with God, myself, my husband, my children, and my friends. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Do you have a bedside bookstack or some books that have had great impact on your life? Which ones? Feel free to share a photo of them in the comments section!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg43eVRI2eZEBvVqBNGGncPWqg0VoTIucLIDsoxuei0xdiC0HFrL3eIbeLta0lGVsXa_JRrDKDhLaBgsNLsKb3kdWuke7V6d9BV1ZqUrZ1ZEdMxMpl1ol44_ggu8Uc6GJJYtjT0bNNVdsY/s1600/14095734_994681173963273_114141354192154870_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg43eVRI2eZEBvVqBNGGncPWqg0VoTIucLIDsoxuei0xdiC0HFrL3eIbeLta0lGVsXa_JRrDKDhLaBgsNLsKb3kdWuke7V6d9BV1ZqUrZ1ZEdMxMpl1ol44_ggu8Uc6GJJYtjT0bNNVdsY/s640/14095734_994681173963273_114141354192154870_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-8123295105438754782016-08-15T15:11:00.003-07:002016-08-15T15:24:44.660-07:00Unexpected Summer Blessings <div style="text-align: justify;">
I will tell you something about me. Every single time the season changes, I get giddy with excitement. There is something about the feeling that something new is on the horizon, that there is room for new possibilities or another chance to really dig my heels in and make "it" happen. "It" can be a variety of things and it depends on which season is upon me.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As summer vacation approached this year, I had that same giddy excitement. I was eager for the school year to end. I had plans to really get my workouts in, to take my children to the splash pad park, to the track, to the new Super Walmart that just opened by my house! Nevertheless, I injured my knee at the start of the summer and was in a car accident a few weeks later. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This meant: no car, no workouts, no splashpad park, no track, and no Super Walmart (at least not that depended on my driving there :-). Did I have my lip poked out? You better believe it. Needless to say, in spite of moments of dissapointment, God always seems to find a way to make challenging or dissapointing setbacks into exciting new adventures or unexpected blessings. He did that for me this summer, for sure.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being in the predicament I was in, I discovered something important: <i>I have a lot of folks who love me enough to make sure I have a way to be carted around town. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Not only was I overwhelmed by some friends of ours who let us drive their minivan for weeks, other friends ensured that I could get to the stores if needed, to the airport when I went out of town, and even just out of the house so I did not lose my mind! What a display of love and generosity I have felt! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In addition to these displays of love, there were many highlights this summer. One was that hubby and I took the children to a water park and a state fair. We had so much fun and made new memories. The kids are at an age where they have a pretty seriously funny sense of humor and I enjoyed them throwing me in a waterfall and their exctiement around the water slides, rides, and a hotel stay. It reminded me that you don't have to break the bank to have a good time and that simplicity is key. My children are growing up so fast, so I live for these moments!</div>
<br />
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKct6G1lMohSp2FNAzEQrioMHhi2w0IdMLPkTd0JAJgBt4c7KEPfB2P3Qdg7DInNLIuz9eKFKpUEbsOhinRnJz2AiB7l3487a7Bp4lCxlNfrnH7mpmd6ObNYocha_Q6EI0EvUlboUyHrA/s640/13895027_10101920684724235_2885360588328913532_n.jpg" />LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-40845210973941749652016-08-12T14:58:00.003-07:002016-08-12T15:04:53.389-07:00Project Purity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSCQ7UkHfVWcRykjyyNwVUaZ9SaOQskXBdU_Nsr6VMh3BQKY3sL7baklXkcD1YylSCGDs4suUTmP9i4GLJNQ-NtAtJgqGIKXhgB_iY21TSE8GfGLesZu5P_xLVzvO-Cfd23HON1-_K3bk/s1600/13873140_285866645115280_4444554229243417763_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSCQ7UkHfVWcRykjyyNwVUaZ9SaOQskXBdU_Nsr6VMh3BQKY3sL7baklXkcD1YylSCGDs4suUTmP9i4GLJNQ-NtAtJgqGIKXhgB_iY21TSE8GfGLesZu5P_xLVzvO-Cfd23HON1-_K3bk/s400/13873140_285866645115280_4444554229243417763_n.jpg" width="343" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.iamprojectpurity.com/">Project Purity</a> is dedicated to supporting singles in discovering purpose in their journey of becoming whole. They are also a group of men and women who encourage celibacy in a way that is attainable in your dating and pursuit of marriage. <br />
<br />
<blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Each month, Project Purity features married couples who share their stories of the dating process and life after marriage. Singles, wouldn't you like to know what married life is really about from the marital perspective? Check out this month's couples and read about their journey of marriage!</i></blockquote>
</blockquote>
<br />
<br />
Kenneth and I were happy to participate in an interview and be featured as one of the featured couples. Below is a snippet of our interview. Jump over and check out the rest of it <a href="http://www.iamprojectpurity.com/#!marriage-talk/nyek5">here</a>!<br />
<br />
<i>Kenneth & LaSandra Hutchinson</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Length of marriage: 12 years</i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i>1. How did you and your spouse meet?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>We went to high school together. Kenneth can remember the first time he saw me freshman year in English class,room 108. He still describes what I was wearing that day. We began our friendship during sophmore year while in World History class.</i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i>2. What are your views on marriage?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>We view marriage as a blessing from the Lord, an opportunity to experience love and companionship. It also refines your character and causes you to have to really grapple with your own shortcomings.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>3. How has it changed you?</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Marriage has helped both of us to mature. We have grown in selflessness, in mercy, and compassion. Both of us have become more of who God has ordained us to be through the marriage as well. We both push the other towards their destiny and have supported each other. </i><br />
<i></i><br />
<br />LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-4694802557189030252016-08-11T15:36:00.003-07:002016-08-13T11:10:03.573-07:00It is Finished!<br />
Hubby and I were married by the time we were 21 and 22, parents by 23 and 24, homeowners and parents of 4 kiddos by 28 and 29. Needless to say, our twenties were jam packed by life changing and beautiful moments as well as major responsibilities. In many ways, those years are a blur. A few years ago, when we began to evaluate where we were and were we headed as a family, we felt strongly that there were some desired steps that we had not taken. <br />
<br />
Being the sole breadwinner, my hubby had focused much of his energies on being successful in the workplace and supporting his family. Nevertheless, we both agreed that for what we hoped to accomplish in the earth during our time here, graduate school was still on our life's to-do list. We found out about a great Masters program that equips professionals with leadership, management, and effective communication skills at our alma mater, Northwestern University. Hubby applied, was accepted, and began classes in fall 2015.<br />
<br />
It has not been not easy. Hubby has been in class nearly every Saturday since September. There were many late nights and assignments that were done on airplanes and in cars when he had to travel for work. There have been moments of sacrifice and sheer exhaustion. However, my hubby has completed all of his program requirements and will graduate this Saturday! <br />
<br />
I am super proud of my husband for investing in himself and accomplishing one of his goals! On to the next!<br />
<br />
Do you have dreams or goals you have put off for a more convienent time or because of fear? I am here to tell you, its not too late!<br />
<blockquote>
“People generally fall into one of three groups: the few who make things happen, the many who watch things happen, and the overwhelming majority who have no notion of what happens. Every person is either a creator of fact or a creature of circumstance. He either puts color into his environment, or, like a chameleon, takes color from his environment.” ― Myles Munroe,<i> Understanding Your Potential</i></blockquote>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaxD7DTdwFSBirHQ7Ah4QlI48p8M5Grbertv149wEssdR5mq0CLl5qKra7LVpPvZN0eXCL_O82Z1dUDIYNMWU5QSHSb_STHrOSdqVTrpBdjGgYW-ldmstSNwAp3-0CyyVsescSApFjHjc/s1600/13902601_10101922483379715_6316257108650432786_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaxD7DTdwFSBirHQ7Ah4QlI48p8M5Grbertv149wEssdR5mq0CLl5qKra7LVpPvZN0eXCL_O82Z1dUDIYNMWU5QSHSb_STHrOSdqVTrpBdjGgYW-ldmstSNwAp3-0CyyVsescSApFjHjc/s640/13902601_10101922483379715_6316257108650432786_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-40839837909759723732016-08-11T15:09:00.001-07:002016-08-11T15:37:32.222-07:00World Changing - Haiti Missions Trip 2016We are half way through 2016 and there are many exciting details to share! <br />
<br />
One of my favorite happens to be that hubby attended his first "formal" missions trip in July! The missions trip was sponsored by our church and the team had such an amazing time. Below are some pictures on my hubby hanging out with members of the missions team and preaching the gospel in Haiti! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZRV9U3uXdSEL2nuTazmVt7RvgUY1EpqrBqnQ7zXcyRMoa5jVC1RcQi0d24XsZf9LwPk9Z6Hiw0J86h8Tj2G9_uuxOvCG8NhpCWUZkz4bGWDIFKywS1beZ8BZEIVmRmj6E52AOShr9BU/s1600/13626518_10101908343226695_5307102546024750706_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZRV9U3uXdSEL2nuTazmVt7RvgUY1EpqrBqnQ7zXcyRMoa5jVC1RcQi0d24XsZf9LwPk9Z6Hiw0J86h8Tj2G9_uuxOvCG8NhpCWUZkz4bGWDIFKywS1beZ8BZEIVmRmj6E52AOShr9BU/s400/13626518_10101908343226695_5307102546024750706_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWYDSC32ef_DdSs4FXNpqastupb7PFlpYBf_3BY_cdA8Ypg-YFOL3KPYmTbQHzYOVb8bfxDO2iBAwhFur_op2Taejap0Lejf53ByNTUTiqsRvY9slcVWLUqnivbjoAV8NAanu8drwdYc/s1600/13880315_10102535245444929_4529142759074664959_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWYDSC32ef_DdSs4FXNpqastupb7PFlpYBf_3BY_cdA8Ypg-YFOL3KPYmTbQHzYOVb8bfxDO2iBAwhFur_op2Taejap0Lejf53ByNTUTiqsRvY9slcVWLUqnivbjoAV8NAanu8drwdYc/s400/13880315_10102535245444929_4529142759074664959_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkqQlLBje4XdM_k4_HJSQ2FW9uEGxE7L7yqV3lbBC7dVLdPjXCZaF8RWt47IAXA5YgnCSUfSwXfOidiAouJHjUxdk-rXgoSjq1yQn8wnldmd_RY_z6Iopu_09sran2mWXzu3cmF7H9_A/s1600/13903420_10102535248054699_4152959620836502004_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkqQlLBje4XdM_k4_HJSQ2FW9uEGxE7L7yqV3lbBC7dVLdPjXCZaF8RWt47IAXA5YgnCSUfSwXfOidiAouJHjUxdk-rXgoSjq1yQn8wnldmd_RY_z6Iopu_09sran2mWXzu3cmF7H9_A/s400/13903420_10102535248054699_4152959620836502004_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGcgLBcpAqgPPyWBAW2lWbBSd6m6R5KGXrvI-b8QC-PmxbkENLA4AO5M2aKVm-miKPg44n8FZmpxIl20i-lIzkWMM8_Vtb2L-ohGQDiWQdz01iPF5EXZHFP8tOtE4cJhmU8tI7LsU3DM/s1600/13912694_10210320622477153_3529654425001150803_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGcgLBcpAqgPPyWBAW2lWbBSd6m6R5KGXrvI-b8QC-PmxbkENLA4AO5M2aKVm-miKPg44n8FZmpxIl20i-lIzkWMM8_Vtb2L-ohGQDiWQdz01iPF5EXZHFP8tOtE4cJhmU8tI7LsU3DM/s400/13912694_10210320622477153_3529654425001150803_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJZ2CL0xrefCaKczR2rcVCAEXKtdOb9Bk0B4gzuOXLE1DHPgG8kaJW21kcRDdKuZsrkSExQqfOo1XzqXd4ljXrY8ymlxD_7pMuQViEdQG2mxuJWa4r7kWrliaUFKROKvZq6s-EV40PEk/s1600/13775634_10202003140317291_8922660777843240732_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJZ2CL0xrefCaKczR2rcVCAEXKtdOb9Bk0B4gzuOXLE1DHPgG8kaJW21kcRDdKuZsrkSExQqfOo1XzqXd4ljXrY8ymlxD_7pMuQViEdQG2mxuJWa4r7kWrliaUFKROKvZq6s-EV40PEk/s400/13775634_10202003140317291_8922660777843240732_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-43741121535105552312016-01-01T23:13:00.000-08:002016-01-01T23:17:57.498-08:00Hello 2016!Happy New Year!<br />
<br />
I have heard 2015 described as "The year of the whirlwind." It was indeed a whirlwind for me in terms of all of the changes that took place in my life. Hubby started a new job, we both started graduate programs, and we embarked on a journey at a new church this year. That was a lot of transition in a short span of time and I am looking forward to building on those changes in 2016!<br />
<br />
What are you looking forward to in 2016?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVunbp-O4Nf7XIsvHMfwMGYTveznEYN7lR29jAYcCdBSuxsAXurqDC1O2XRNOKNFbEcgpJPwrbiWbtMmExRQEUAIvUwXP3T6k7hyrDwJd2LWPKArcFHHkQK0T44D2Zdc3bAftNmJl3W98/s1600/10413156_1708680006020514_953326218_n%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVunbp-O4Nf7XIsvHMfwMGYTveznEYN7lR29jAYcCdBSuxsAXurqDC1O2XRNOKNFbEcgpJPwrbiWbtMmExRQEUAIvUwXP3T6k7hyrDwJd2LWPKArcFHHkQK0T44D2Zdc3bAftNmJl3W98/s640/10413156_1708680006020514_953326218_n%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-47307144328519045412015-12-16T20:27:00.003-08:002015-12-16T20:51:03.664-08:00The Anatomy of TrustIn a season when I am praying about and looking to strengthen my relationships and my relational ability, this talk is so relevant and helpful! Take a listen and let me know what you think.<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe width="100%" height="360" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" src="http://www.oprah.com/video_embed.html?article_id=59794"> </iframe> LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-14720187165264947002015-12-16T20:07:00.003-08:002015-12-16T20:08:44.952-08:00I have hard days.<div style="text-align: justify;">
Really hard. Here is my Facebook post after a "wild" evening with the kids...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It all started when one of them starting crying because they couldn't find one of their gloves. That crying continued for about 10 minutes in the car. As I entered the grocery store I realized I forgot my list. I could not remember giving the children any candy, but they acted as if they had each ate a half pound of sugar. Of course, three had a bathroom emergency in the midst. After almost an hour of shenanigans, one dropped a glass jar of pesto sauce in the aisle. Oh, the shame.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I finally got all of them in the car. I could feel my upper back muscles tensing up as I loaded the groceries in the trunk. It is now dark, cold, the wind is blowing my hair all over my head. Just when I thought I had a moment of silence, I hear one say in a dramatic, story-telling voice, "Oh, poor Mommy. The wind is blowing as she tugs the heavy groceries into the car..." as if she is narrating my saga...Really?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I need everyone to close their eyes and stretch their hands toward the computer screen in a moment of silent prayer for me right now. #Jesusberestraint #nowitshomeworktime #ihavetomovebedtimeuptonight</div>
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-43972360594205609672015-12-12T19:13:00.001-08:002015-12-12T19:30:23.397-08:00Good Good Father <div style="text-align: justify;">
I think most of us can identify times when God has been portrayed as a hard taskmaster. We may pinpoint times in which he has been presented to us or viewed by us as distant, indifferent or detached. Nevertheless, that is not an adequate portrayal of who God is or how he wants us to view/relate Him. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In fact, I have recently been hearing the term "sonship" be used to address this issue. Although I am still learning, it is my understanding that embracing sonship means to embrace and be rooted and grounded in the truth that we are sons and daughters of God. We have been adopted by Him and therefore, can approach him with all of the confidence and surety of a child approaching his or her dad. I think this song speaks well to that truth, the essence of our relationship with God, and how we should view Him. It has really been ministering to me. I hope you enjoy it as well! </div>
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="40" height="320" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CqybaIesbuA" width="600"></iframe>LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-47513392124013874822015-12-09T15:35:00.002-08:002015-12-09T16:06:28.975-08:00On skipping and the wonders of childhood.My Halle is currently 4 years old and she skips. And I mean she skips everywhere! In the kitchen, up the stairs, to the school bus, around the house, in the driveway. I must tell you, it brings me so much joy to see her skipping. <br />
<br />
One of my favorite bloggers - Katherine from <a href="http://www.raisingfive.com/">www.raisingfive.com</a>, wrote this about motherhood: <br />
<br />
<blockquote>I will never forget a conversation I had with my mom once. I was an exhausted young mother, drowning in the incessance of the job, (is that a word, even?). Somewhere in the middle of my dronings about the difficulty I was facing, she got quiet and said, "When I think about the years with you kids at home [there were four of us], it's almost like it was all a dream."<br />
<br />
Now that I am but two years away from my first child leaving home I am beginning to understand what she meant.<br />
<br />
These years are frustrating, tiring, monotonous, tedious. I have never been so angry, so bewildered, so entirely consumed with discouragement, fear, or doubt.<br />
<br />
And yet...they are filled with a kind of wonder and happiness and hope and the breathtaking exhilaration of looking up one day and realizing that that amorphous blip on the sonogram suddenly resembles a mature young man or woman (or, depending on where you are, maybe they are just getting, say, potty trained). And that the circle of life is about to come around and give you whiplash.</blockquote><br />
I completely identify with Katherine's sentiments and they bring so much perspective. I became a mother at the age of 23. Now, at 33, I realize how completely not ready I was and how difficult that adjustment was for me. In some respect, I have heard moms who started their families at a much later age than I, express similar frustrations and struggles similar to what I experienced transitioning into parenthood. Perhaps certain frustrations just come with the territory. Nevertheless, now that I am ten years in (I cannot believe I have a 10-year-old, but that is another post), I can see how indeed time is fleeting. It is really beginning to feel like the past years (when I was pregnant and breastfeeding, and trying to control toddlers) now almost feels like a dream. <br />
<br />
If I could go back some 5-10 years, I think I would have relaxed a bit. I would not have been so focused on being the perfect homemaker or mother. Instead, I would have taken more time to savor sweet and delightful things like lullabies, silly songs, and skipping. <br />
<br />
So, yep. That's all I have for you today...skipping. I am enjoying it very much at the moment and hoping she doesn't stop anytime soon :-)LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-51512385179494872412015-12-09T13:40:00.002-08:002015-12-09T15:41:34.968-08:00Northwestern vs. University of Illinois Hello blog! <br />
<br />
I am posting sparingly nowadays, but there is still much going on in my life! I have been contemplating a return back to regular blogging as a way to help me continue to capture, process, and savor life's moments. I have mentioned before that I love being able to jump on here and see where my mind was at and all that was going on at various season's of life. The most challenging thing might just be carving out time to create posts, but I think I am going to give it a try. Interestingly enough, I noticed that it was exactly a year ago today that I last posted!<br />
<br />
Here are some photos of my family and I at a NU football game the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Although we were pretty cold, this was exciting for all of us because hubby and I are both Northwestern alum and this was the first college football game the children ever attended! Most exciting of all, NU won! Go wildcats!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSTpAYfi9Ypuc5NoDEZO97S_l3Yrn4jpl0_ucUmXTCloK4r3na79dpohjPah-feVv5Z3WvAmyV8PDq86VAZmiyv33e92RCFL59Qmj-S5PM6vHN1owPPhzkAF0kTEX14G3-7Jg40sQi4Q/s1600/nu+game.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSTpAYfi9Ypuc5NoDEZO97S_l3Yrn4jpl0_ucUmXTCloK4r3na79dpohjPah-feVv5Z3WvAmyV8PDq86VAZmiyv33e92RCFL59Qmj-S5PM6vHN1owPPhzkAF0kTEX14G3-7Jg40sQi4Q/s640/nu+game.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixNlDUvpZqEhDTNH1MKZqwd5Pv7v-Mv7Yq9viq2Roo1wkSErl7Pxxu16ZkIxuOSKt-OSLFVzR_ZwC8gJjkynZk4SDlk6bz_hQcAKosM4knITY65q-mZDpuo8GEaRCbZV_7EKe8MHJ2gw/s1600/me+nu+game.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixNlDUvpZqEhDTNH1MKZqwd5Pv7v-Mv7Yq9viq2Roo1wkSErl7Pxxu16ZkIxuOSKt-OSLFVzR_ZwC8gJjkynZk4SDlk6bz_hQcAKosM4knITY65q-mZDpuo8GEaRCbZV_7EKe8MHJ2gw/s640/me+nu+game.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDbxCp9emp3AzoWS3odaSp62A25TH7luf_wQD-64YLDDhj9Jt2zV7kz_N-dFPRHZoI_wrA_QwQqAHd7ChG8FHK_nwgFCQ6FKMGQY1AI2d7-d84BqokEUjpNOOd8O0-BQf9iBOsj8uh3U/s1600/noah+gm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDbxCp9emp3AzoWS3odaSp62A25TH7luf_wQD-64YLDDhj9Jt2zV7kz_N-dFPRHZoI_wrA_QwQqAHd7ChG8FHK_nwgFCQ6FKMGQY1AI2d7-d84BqokEUjpNOOd8O0-BQf9iBOsj8uh3U/s640/noah+gm.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47YZc0EqebI-3SBHG-obd9U389gDKqCQaZsNdsigA8czL6JlF5HxGIYi6LkWlc21uZ8l2Kgobxd5SHr9SaJZrBexBVkbC2LgesdMz6uo1wJ9nQ7M7ih87RBMqYtA06jZGUZS4z-35bqc/s1600/nu+g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg47YZc0EqebI-3SBHG-obd9U389gDKqCQaZsNdsigA8czL6JlF5HxGIYi6LkWlc21uZ8l2Kgobxd5SHr9SaJZrBexBVkbC2LgesdMz6uo1wJ9nQ7M7ih87RBMqYtA06jZGUZS4z-35bqc/s640/nu+g.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDAGoqNTXJmNXjNKAGTvLL50BBfmQMAPylHf2AbYL7bNcgXQBXsxKNNiD5jkZj8wUhGQ1QUOAdz8cSjsYRUaUTIGAnbfnrroyH24i1knU-CxFEEcHLRIO5C_R0x0_5f3HKOXG6diMIzvk/s1600/nu+game1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDAGoqNTXJmNXjNKAGTvLL50BBfmQMAPylHf2AbYL7bNcgXQBXsxKNNiD5jkZj8wUhGQ1QUOAdz8cSjsYRUaUTIGAnbfnrroyH24i1knU-CxFEEcHLRIO5C_R0x0_5f3HKOXG6diMIzvk/s640/nu+game1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zKU1-PPPX8CjnWhJsPPIKZgfogEmzE82ms4DIzDU91OskJESnHrwSxl91OxvTgoCKb0VzUjTm30Bs0LvPSDM_PBDZ-5iVA7SCTzBwLkYw6GuZcOx45RnhTItkq6xJ2rTpP3beBaCCKM/s1600/nu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zKU1-PPPX8CjnWhJsPPIKZgfogEmzE82ms4DIzDU91OskJESnHrwSxl91OxvTgoCKb0VzUjTm30Bs0LvPSDM_PBDZ-5iVA7SCTzBwLkYw6GuZcOx45RnhTItkq6xJ2rTpP3beBaCCKM/s640/nu.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoTBEOcFkmXQpIcDAHnNNAq-xBwGOC6_7vkh5xxEjAreAD17SSoz4cRRxZwrn41NmfF3XpEFs5kD33CWEBTacVeKIeEBD6Aulg2tq1EcuiomaU43Z0P41qUQ-JCvO2cZj-jg8AxqZmes/s1600/nu+gm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoTBEOcFkmXQpIcDAHnNNAq-xBwGOC6_7vkh5xxEjAreAD17SSoz4cRRxZwrn41NmfF3XpEFs5kD33CWEBTacVeKIeEBD6Aulg2tq1EcuiomaU43Z0P41qUQ-JCvO2cZj-jg8AxqZmes/s640/nu+gm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-68794959793506891722014-12-09T20:02:00.002-08:002014-12-09T20:15:13.975-08:00Bargaining, Negotiation and VegetablesI am not sure who is winning the war in getting their kids to eat their vegetables. But, our kids are finding new and creative ways to avoid such habits. In fact, we have recently entered into a bit of bargaining and negotiation with Noah. <br />
<br />
It usually plays out like this:<br />
<br />
"Noah, eat your vegetables."<br />
<br />
*groaning and looking as if we asked him to eat poison* "How many spoonfuls?*<br />
<br />
"Give us eight."<br />
<br />
"Ummmm...five?"<br />
<br />
"Seven."<br />
<br />
"Six."<br />
<br />
"Okay. Six."<br />
<br />
"Done."<br />
<br />
So, I'm not sure if we are winning or losing. You be the judge.LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-53060516983472678082014-12-05T09:55:00.001-08:002014-12-05T10:09:56.704-08:00Favorite Moments<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know summer has passed and we are entering into the winter months. Nevertheless, I couldn't resist sharing some of my favorite photos with you.
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I think that by far, most of my favorite photos of my kids are the ones where we caught them in motion, laughing, playing and having fun. Below are some photos I took of Halle as she ran through the sprinklers at a Splash Pad park near our home. She ran, jumped, and sang songs impromptu. One of them was a simple chant, "Let's get this party started! Let's get this party started!..." She even solicited other kids in the park that she didn't know to join in with her singing and playing. They too picked up on the chant. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am not quite sure what to think about the appropriateness of that chant for my 3-year old. However, one thing is for sure: My Halle certainly knows how to have a good time:-)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAcgktexdsYuwhDkH-OgrbK9tTNemgFBMqUdtg9nvflRaXSsR6iltZSLYF8-1Gbqd0bRC3N8rX6o082YaVVFBaTd8mLIwibt_vNjHqGdZbJ6BfWf9Dj7Q1V64AsjRhs0pHbm5SCPwmDM4/s1600/10690172_630635213701206_3373482543343489852_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAcgktexdsYuwhDkH-OgrbK9tTNemgFBMqUdtg9nvflRaXSsR6iltZSLYF8-1Gbqd0bRC3N8rX6o082YaVVFBaTd8mLIwibt_vNjHqGdZbJ6BfWf9Dj7Q1V64AsjRhs0pHbm5SCPwmDM4/s1600/10690172_630635213701206_3373482543343489852_n%5B1%5D.jpg" height="640" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylx1r0Sx4XwBWCVrr0ocxFKjXWsxShzsFKlmxMsER7KOZLZZdceByYIs4-M_7xVh7zsJETB2XX7U7PUv_mTcep-ZDBVIa85Ki4W8vGbqm8biu8bnPacyNAPSoOwkTcaENWIt7BBPNnj0/s1600/10441205_630635467034514_5122734278408109737_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjylx1r0Sx4XwBWCVrr0ocxFKjXWsxShzsFKlmxMsER7KOZLZZdceByYIs4-M_7xVh7zsJETB2XX7U7PUv_mTcep-ZDBVIa85Ki4W8vGbqm8biu8bnPacyNAPSoOwkTcaENWIt7BBPNnj0/s1600/10441205_630635467034514_5122734278408109737_n%5B1%5D.jpg" height="640" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaY3G5fMjKhcwpZD6jI5fpyandKrWrb6gnswzLYL9GHZ2WZ4B7HyU_nk2F3mYPapFIwgde8kOD0pvT8UpicAtPRvrAn2wCXv8P5Ff0tiCVsKXFsaDyixSyB0UbiVq0MxvqW7FzmqRWTxQ/s1600/10300969_630635203701207_1429640673218214912_n%5B2%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaY3G5fMjKhcwpZD6jI5fpyandKrWrb6gnswzLYL9GHZ2WZ4B7HyU_nk2F3mYPapFIwgde8kOD0pvT8UpicAtPRvrAn2wCXv8P5Ff0tiCVsKXFsaDyixSyB0UbiVq0MxvqW7FzmqRWTxQ/s1600/10300969_630635203701207_1429640673218214912_n%5B2%5D.jpg" height="640" width="476" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERfJY97hRNzBRFxkuUIe17Dj1BoCVe0Jb7gQyhwo6LaZHAx0kw9WFEXccVgzVa_mAnL-TkiOY3sbQND5kMfNEyn3mtUsJ5M40YgnbzdzDcmoLZwzhyBWM2o1WgHXzTI9BlXh773ViFIw/s1600/1528511_660145924083468_1013407856953744968_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERfJY97hRNzBRFxkuUIe17Dj1BoCVe0Jb7gQyhwo6LaZHAx0kw9WFEXccVgzVa_mAnL-TkiOY3sbQND5kMfNEyn3mtUsJ5M40YgnbzdzDcmoLZwzhyBWM2o1WgHXzTI9BlXh773ViFIw/s1600/1528511_660145924083468_1013407856953744968_n%5B1%5D.jpg" height="640" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG4D8JojAliNeE6fYvlHNV57dAYG_S8BkCiXjOsqslF9VqEZvJ5tOOAHeDlMiZvBl-Pve37Gojyh_gv-VQbCyCTdtvw2aAIoyESD01jquKnsDVPyoZQjJ-7Jx0DErbePNzgc9jan22ezc/s1600/10440950_660146127416781_7174870862330936990_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG4D8JojAliNeE6fYvlHNV57dAYG_S8BkCiXjOsqslF9VqEZvJ5tOOAHeDlMiZvBl-Pve37Gojyh_gv-VQbCyCTdtvw2aAIoyESD01jquKnsDVPyoZQjJ-7Jx0DErbePNzgc9jan22ezc/s1600/10440950_660146127416781_7174870862330936990_n%5B1%5D.jpg" height="640" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAyce-bUAzvZkM4pXO-XU6DJ_VFAK6I4l36nQLrPTkv40-3DiBtPntjmjv_36jMtwzzeR2JPDeSY-dsZj9qwHRv7boXdKrFugVgld4NJ-czEmnMq33cWuQnd5wEM_G-w-2AL3_0q_mgo/s1600/10444420_660145920750135_7732367092261811495_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpAyce-bUAzvZkM4pXO-XU6DJ_VFAK6I4l36nQLrPTkv40-3DiBtPntjmjv_36jMtwzzeR2JPDeSY-dsZj9qwHRv7boXdKrFugVgld4NJ-czEmnMq33cWuQnd5wEM_G-w-2AL3_0q_mgo/s1600/10444420_660145920750135_7732367092261811495_n%5B1%5D.jpg" height="640" width="476" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa12sCXgr8765-OP8IB_3qm1-dwmaAUrNxm8xgjjcuNVMHR5XnI9hY16NGr9-rLRRF6306CXEEPOM3xpDqrSziphf9YTuxvMh4urkDZE7p9ep97PAE2cKlfGkKX62IqkoNKj40m4qfvQ/s1600/10632744_660146140750113_8561133645321513201_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa12sCXgr8765-OP8IB_3qm1-dwmaAUrNxm8xgjjcuNVMHR5XnI9hY16NGr9-rLRRF6306CXEEPOM3xpDqrSziphf9YTuxvMh4urkDZE7p9ep97PAE2cKlfGkKX62IqkoNKj40m4qfvQ/s1600/10632744_660146140750113_8561133645321513201_n%5B1%5D.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-50330907977370815492014-11-28T22:53:00.000-08:002014-11-28T22:53:26.689-08:00Noelle turns 9!<div style="text-align: justify;">
There have been many new developments since I last posted here. One of which, is hard to believe...my baby turned 9 years old on the 19th of this month!
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is so true that time flies and kids grow up fast! I had Noelle is 2005, but it is hard to grasp the fact that that was almost a decade ago! She has blossomed into a wonderful 9 year old girl. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
She has a new found interest in knitting and sewing. She still enjoys school and was chosen to participate in our Regional Spelling Bee in January 2015.
Noelle is loved by her teacher and pretty much all that know her (although I hate to brag;-) I cannot wait to see what the next 9 years will hold for her! I am excited to continue on this journey of being her mother. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Noelle, I just love you so much and thank God for you! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Love, </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mommy
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRDnT_L6bl7OIrPunurAlLqShQRxnfazrpVydvl10r7a6NDoThiQqcT9Y1Px889eWkv0khFPt7glZ7WtVziC5-blTLlIiMWAKrnrnFo-K9bB0JWv98KfAsLLSWVtNsg8Yo-yEYSv2x4Q/s1600/IMG_3229%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRDnT_L6bl7OIrPunurAlLqShQRxnfazrpVydvl10r7a6NDoThiQqcT9Y1Px889eWkv0khFPt7glZ7WtVziC5-blTLlIiMWAKrnrnFo-K9bB0JWv98KfAsLLSWVtNsg8Yo-yEYSv2x4Q/s1600/IMG_3229%5B1%5D.JPG" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMb0tB7x9de6yP10agv1QdpaOK1xfz95L9FwSdpnDOY8UTLijXLK3GFV0HQAOFqGroxSGGnCMYzUqkqNuVOHV3clhHPhwQGu8tkGILm59ZTA6W7_ZbHF25btj6NCvR6kFDJrUlQiQB-oo/s1600/IMG_3234%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMb0tB7x9de6yP10agv1QdpaOK1xfz95L9FwSdpnDOY8UTLijXLK3GFV0HQAOFqGroxSGGnCMYzUqkqNuVOHV3clhHPhwQGu8tkGILm59ZTA6W7_ZbHF25btj6NCvR6kFDJrUlQiQB-oo/s1600/IMG_3234%5B1%5D.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd7ZiYvWD41E-jJXSTWU8nK64wFZ1mca3H7KaN0eWww0e7lA3WL8xZtnu5_rfh2HlK0XOn0GcDpYwgPdcF7tCTjlFhHLSxW7d2CQNJWP2Ir3QE7sARDn-7tzq-oTesMFoOWOe8SO749jE/s1600/IMG_3223%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd7ZiYvWD41E-jJXSTWU8nK64wFZ1mca3H7KaN0eWww0e7lA3WL8xZtnu5_rfh2HlK0XOn0GcDpYwgPdcF7tCTjlFhHLSxW7d2CQNJWP2Ir3QE7sARDn-7tzq-oTesMFoOWOe8SO749jE/s1600/IMG_3223%5B1%5D.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhoasJld1veSnQ4QxGtbw02FSW1ZMXTZJBR6JRsmKtynU_tEAsv7wPlGohACDVowDkX7e6NieKjSgxY3gQs2e5x2vp5kKtUZ_3DPaFURJRoz3mph2JeZ0FMcCGgXi8zTYNpivTm5KMD4/s1600/IMG_3217%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLhoasJld1veSnQ4QxGtbw02FSW1ZMXTZJBR6JRsmKtynU_tEAsv7wPlGohACDVowDkX7e6NieKjSgxY3gQs2e5x2vp5kKtUZ_3DPaFURJRoz3mph2JeZ0FMcCGgXi8zTYNpivTm5KMD4/s1600/IMG_3217%5B1%5D.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXk80SUSrKyhkFQr0LeOb3B7CE8w3OHr_Sz6w5BBKmc5AU6wFr6DW5YgjwzYnSPkuYFmfwGTDuJdnDrF0JbXfiqTwxmP7N6wEfv0esGYZ9WlWtqil7pPjjxbZppmeIEKysrQMeMPXCng/s1600/IMG_3246%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXk80SUSrKyhkFQr0LeOb3B7CE8w3OHr_Sz6w5BBKmc5AU6wFr6DW5YgjwzYnSPkuYFmfwGTDuJdnDrF0JbXfiqTwxmP7N6wEfv0esGYZ9WlWtqil7pPjjxbZppmeIEKysrQMeMPXCng/s1600/IMG_3246%5B1%5D.JPG" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTXXQhmnNgh_mD286sO94Bf8yAqkkGA81RI20DLdmn5Gho-T0BHoCTWJBKYQMjuMq-Q9OL1wjmLWApn4eGDZevxKyn_mWmTguSijX1gdLduwE4UTjMykF5lVddVxEOFpgxQbuDW7yysCU/s1600/IMG_3242%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<br />LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-35235658861156262672014-05-22T08:40:00.001-07:002014-05-22T08:43:01.970-07:00Lost & Found ~ Sarah Jakes<div style="text-align: justify;">
Recently, I told my husband it seemed like when we first got married, no one else was married. Then, once we hit our mid-twenties, it seemed like everyone around us started getting married. Now, in our early thirties, it feels like so many around us are struggling to hold on to the their marriages and/or are steps away from divorce. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's real out here. People are in need of real, raw, transparent ministry that will transform their lives. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sarah Jakes is a great example of someone offering that kind of ministry. She has quite the story. She has come through the pain of teen pregnancy, infidelity, divorce, and the shame that comes with all of that. However, I admire her honesty and willingness to share her story in order to uplift others in a real way. Her book is entitled, <a href="http://sarahjakes.com/lost-and-found-2/">Lost & Found: Finding Hope in the Detours of Life</a>. and the video below is just one of eight webisodes that you can find on her blog. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hope you check it out and are blessed by it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/QBY4_xzNN5k" width="653"></iframe></div>
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-21956971202393070392014-05-21T10:35:00.004-07:002014-05-21T10:35:11.682-07:00Wordless Wednesday <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqDrHX3ajOLlFat8E-Qp3jH3C4tDCdElnANuXm6yhSTmUTIVzrBsoo15XfNMnCbXCxvOXGnV-03o9mgx_w_Cv8yH28JUQVfRviez3L6hil-4GBV8vD798n9jilfN8OikXNc-8iklRC2A/s1600/21fd99920476f4b2111230010bc36a1d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqDrHX3ajOLlFat8E-Qp3jH3C4tDCdElnANuXm6yhSTmUTIVzrBsoo15XfNMnCbXCxvOXGnV-03o9mgx_w_Cv8yH28JUQVfRviez3L6hil-4GBV8vD798n9jilfN8OikXNc-8iklRC2A/s1600/21fd99920476f4b2111230010bc36a1d.jpg" height="640" width="435" /></a></div>
<br />LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-49868586161471429862014-03-31T08:52:00.004-07:002014-03-31T08:52:53.587-07:00Jesus it is you<div style="background-color: white; padding: 5px 10px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Awesome lyrics. Awesome song. I needed this.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; padding: 5px 10px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; padding: 5px 10px;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/zuKs0Pylh0U" width="653"></iframe></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; padding: 5px 10px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; padding: 5px 10px; text-align: center;">
<b>Jesus it is you</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; padding: 5px 10px;">
WHO MAKES THE SUN TO RISE AND BRING THE EARTH NEW LIFE IN EVERY BEAM<br />
JESUS IT IS YOU<br />
WHO TURNS THE DAY TO NIGHT AND <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD8" style="background-attachment: scroll !important; background-color: transparent !important; background-image: none !important; background-position: 0% 50%; background-repeat: repeat repeat !important; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; border-bottom-style: solid !important; border-bottom-width: 1px !important; color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; cursor: pointer !important; display: inline !important; float: none !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1px !important; position: static; text-decoration: underline !important;">WATCHES</span> ME AS I BEGIN TO DREAM<br />
JESUS IT IS YOU<br />
WHO BRINGS ME <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD3" style="background-attachment: scroll !important; background-color: transparent !important; background-image: none !important; background-position: 0% 50%; background-repeat: repeat repeat !important; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; border-bottom-style: solid !important; border-bottom-width: 1px !important; color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; cursor: pointer !important; display: inline !important; float: none !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1px !important; position: static; text-decoration: underline !important;">FOOD</span> FOR MY <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD4" style="background-attachment: scroll !important; background-color: transparent !important; background-image: none !important; background-position: 0% 50%; background-repeat: repeat repeat !important; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; border-bottom-style: solid !important; border-bottom-width: 1px !important; color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; cursor: pointer !important; display: inline !important; float: none !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1px !important; position: static; text-decoration: underline !important;">TABLE</span>, WHO CARES FOR ALL OF MY NEEDS<br />
WHO WALKS THE ROAD WITH ME<br />
HAS GROWN WITH ME THROUGH ALL THAT I HAVE BEEN<br />
JESUS IT IS YOU, JESUS IT IS YOU</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; padding: 5px 10px;">
<span id="more-2984" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"></span>SO I LIFT MY HANDS AND I BRING MY <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD6" style="background-attachment: scroll !important; background-color: transparent !important; background-image: none !important; background-position: 0% 50%; background-repeat: repeat repeat !important; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; border-bottom-style: solid !important; border-bottom-width: 1px !important; color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; cursor: pointer !important; display: inline !important; float: none !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1px !important; position: static; text-decoration: underline !important;">SONG</span><br />
ALL OF MY DAYS, ALL OF MY RIGHTS, ALL OF MY WRONGS<br />
I OFFER MY LIFE, HERE AND BEYOND<br />
TO THE ONE THING TRUE, JESUS IT IS YOU</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; padding: 5px 10px;">
WHO SEES MY BROKENNESS AND CARRIES ME WHEN I AM FRAIL AND WEAK<br />
JESUS IT IS YOU<br />
WHO TELLS THE STORM TO REST WHEN I AM OVERWHELMED AND CANNOT SPEAK<br />
JESUS IT IS YOU<br />
WHO WEARS MY GUILT ON HIS SHOULDERS, WHO HOLDS MY HEART IN HIS HANDS<br />
WHO TAKES MY THOUGHTS AND FEARS AND HANGS THEM ON THE ARMS OF CALVARY<br />
JESUS IT IS YOU, JESUS IT IS YOU</div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; padding: 5px 10px;">
<em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Music & <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD5" style="background-attachment: scroll !important; background-color: transparent !important; background-image: none !important; background-position: 0% 50%; background-repeat: repeat repeat !important; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; border-bottom-style: solid !important; border-bottom-width: 1px !important; color: rgb(0, 153, 0) !important; cursor: pointer !important; display: inline !important; float: none !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 1px !important; position: static; text-decoration: underline !important;">Lyrics</span> : Ben Manusama</em></div>
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-26872356254537953672014-03-17T08:50:00.002-07:002014-03-17T08:54:42.270-07:00My boy is 5!<div class="separator tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTR4uoB1_16E50rDg927PXnZSNY_XL8QGoh-G1wiX77a-gcNaJyCeQxxVrTMCY9X5bPfZdE06JVFUOvgO7QBKWm3zYcCWpYLQHRBvmalL1QJlJAIzf6SLCNeuavUgzAFl82OB6Jxyepco/s1600/1148865_548806561884072_882966794_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTR4uoB1_16E50rDg927PXnZSNY_XL8QGoh-G1wiX77a-gcNaJyCeQxxVrTMCY9X5bPfZdE06JVFUOvgO7QBKWm3zYcCWpYLQHRBvmalL1QJlJAIzf6SLCNeuavUgzAFl82OB6Jxyepco/s1600/1148865_548806561884072_882966794_n.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My boy is 5 years old today! Excuse me, I have to type that again for the sake of processing: <i>My boy is 5 years old today</i>! Okay. that helped. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Currently, Noah is <i>all</i> about Batman. Thus, I have a Batman cake to pick up today around five o' clock. We have some gifts for him to open and are just excited to see him so excited to be a 5 year old.
Here are some things we are just absolutely loving about Noah: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1.Noah still loves to dress up with his ties, hankerchiefs, button-up shirts, and jackets. I secretly hope that this is not a phase, but just something about him that will remain until adulthood:)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. Noah is still very much into singing and music and likes to pretend that he is in a band. He likes the guitar, the keyboard, and the drums.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. Noah is so affectionate. He is especially affectionate toward his mommy (another thing I secretly hope will never change;) Hugs, kisses, and "I love you' s" galore come from this little guy and are a blessing to us all.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Noah, who has always been on the quiet side, is beginning to be more talkative and conversational. This catches me off guard sometimes because its new. However, I love to talk to him about things he is learning, about God, about how he loves his family, and of course, about <i>Batman. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbu-zIlaYz4fZB9atrhPhyphenhyphenf8rVea8te9G3oPQ1gjlvzzz7VN9t8eEk_K1J6xOlnZYMYtlpkBIJd-p9nNkBXsLFaH57cF-A0GD1IN9tpXhDv5b3lRbjvZdTROQSY0bEf6K977pgUnfayw/s1600/1544290_10100770371256645_19989419_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbu-zIlaYz4fZB9atrhPhyphenhyphenf8rVea8te9G3oPQ1gjlvzzz7VN9t8eEk_K1J6xOlnZYMYtlpkBIJd-p9nNkBXsLFaH57cF-A0GD1IN9tpXhDv5b3lRbjvZdTROQSY0bEf6K977pgUnfayw/s1600/1544290_10100770371256645_19989419_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<i>Noah, </i><br />
<br />
<i style="text-align: justify;">When daddy and I prayed and asked God for a son, we knew we would enjoy having a boy. But, we had no idea just how much your personality, your voice, your humor, your quirks, and all the other qualities God has put in you would steal our hearts. You are a joy and we love you Big Boy!</i>LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-67877140586126347452014-03-10T09:57:00.000-07:002014-12-09T20:50:31.928-08:00Guess Who!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISQT58UIq3qF8w_NQOBfOtnRvo35G8T5NoLRm5ac3Y6M9y5nMcBYV7ANlqNVJAmP2-4u9usSTu1TtffhjYyNHSE3C_jKwEh3cqzfyVYDHvMRYEN6D2yK_sfUZFH51vOuQScjMirT0hQA/s1600/1530412_544247202340008_654766729_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISQT58UIq3qF8w_NQOBfOtnRvo35G8T5NoLRm5ac3Y6M9y5nMcBYV7ANlqNVJAmP2-4u9usSTu1TtffhjYyNHSE3C_jKwEh3cqzfyVYDHvMRYEN6D2yK_sfUZFH51vOuQScjMirT0hQA/s1600/1530412_544247202340008_654766729_n.jpg" height="640" width="542" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yep. You got it. That's yours truly. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When my son so sweetly presented me with this drawing, I could tell he was proud of his work. I took one look and had to put forth much effort in order to hide my amusement at the look on my face in the drawing. I told Noah it was great, thanked him, and gave him a big hug.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After I walked away, I couldn't help but to shake my head and chuckle to myself for at least 10 minutes. I wondered,<i> "Is this a picture of me on a good day or a bad day?" </i>I thought, <i>"It definitely had to be a bad hair day if nothing else. "</i> Nevertheless, Mr. Noah was very serious about the fact that it was a picture of my looking quite lovely. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What can I do in response to that besides feel proud of my portrait? Thanks Noah:)</div>
LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-17786666194171916822014-01-23T14:06:00.001-08:002014-01-23T14:06:10.563-08:00"I didn't realize all that was going on and we never noticed."<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="text-align: justify;"> "In Thorton Wilder's play Our Town a deeply poignant scene takes place in a graveyard. Emily, still longing for the life she has just left, wishes to revisit one ordinary, "unimportant" day in her life. When she gets her wish, she realizes how much the living take for granted.</span> </i></blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><div style="display: inline !important;">
Eventually her visit is too much for her to bear. "'I didn't realize', she confesses mournfully, 'all that was going on and we never noticed...Good by, world. Good-by, Grover's Corners...Mama and Papa. Good by to clocks ticking...and Mama's sunflowers. And food and coffee. And new ironed dresses and hot baths...and sleeping and waking up'</div>
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: justify;">
</div>
</i></blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: justify;">
<i>On our new path we seek everyday epiphanies--occasions in which we can experience the sacred in the ordinary--and come to the awakening, as Emily finally does, that we cannot longer afford to throw away even one 'unimportant' day by not noticing the wonder of it all."</i></div>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="display: inline !important; text-align: justify;">
<i>-</i>Sarah Ban Breathnach<i> (Simple Abundan</i>ce<i>: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy) </i></div>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Monday, I had the pleasure of spending the weekday hubby and all four of my children. MLK day meant a day off for us all! I had a doctor's appointment in the morning and then did a little thrift store shopping, ( it was 1/2 off day and I would be foolish to miss such a sale). I was excited to find quite a few cute things that I either needed or wanted for myself and the kids. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once I returned home, I found hubby had done some dishes and was watching Martin Luther Kings'<i> I Have a Dream</i> speech. All four of the kids were sitting on his lap watching it with him. It was his way of making sure they understood the importance of MLK and why exactly they were getting a day off of school.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After a while, I found bunch of old Cosby Show episodes on You Tube and we all started to clean up as we watched re-run after re-run. Sweeping, wiping things down, putting clothes away. We chuckled. We stood in the middle of the floor with broom in hand and shook our head. After hilarious scenes we glanced at each other and smiled. We answered questions the kids had about why Cliff said that to Claire and why Vanessa or Theo were in big trouble. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The show brought back so many memories for my husband and I. However, we have only recently introduced the show to the kids, which makes it even more exciting because we are seeing them enjoy it as we did in our childhood. I think I enjoyed the show even more since I am now a parent and can appreciate Cliff and Claire's firm yet loving, and sometimes hilarious approach to parenting. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the midst of cleaning and watching the Huxtables, I thought to myself, "This is so nice. I have <i>my own </i>family." I felt like Emily in <i>Our Town </i>realizing that there is something wonderful going on around me right here in the ordinariness of my "unimportant" days. As I move deeper into this new year, I plan on intentionally grabbing hold of and enjoying more of these wonderful things.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-69614468479805272342014-01-14T11:50:00.000-08:002014-01-14T11:50:00.885-08:00My guy and his girls.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9VUid4JVbDEqs1BbWnKui_95ARpzYOGFQyb6hi-m2dRc-d_Pq67fYdWor-65B6u6E8HLjiJTMbWyaHrOg_NuVqoLspGHR7eo1l3qNAMkep0yrFBOPEBq9p8TDOe3HN104T1n9VdrHJs/s1600/1453539_10100741567769065_2056391518_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9VUid4JVbDEqs1BbWnKui_95ARpzYOGFQyb6hi-m2dRc-d_Pq67fYdWor-65B6u6E8HLjiJTMbWyaHrOg_NuVqoLspGHR7eo1l3qNAMkep0yrFBOPEBq9p8TDOe3HN104T1n9VdrHJs/s640/1453539_10100741567769065_2056391518_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
These four are the king and princesses of silly-faced photos!LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3578836614897662536.post-73425562793139649092014-01-09T14:21:00.004-08:002014-01-09T14:24:47.412-08:00Commitment<div style="text-align: justify;">
There is a message that has been on repeat in my house.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The principals seem to be just the kick in the rear I need during this very pivotal time. You can watch the message below and see for yourself how Pastor T.D. Jakes really unfolds and drives home the concept of <i>reciprocity</i>. You will find that the principals can be applied to every area of life; family, church, work, dreams, goals, etc!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Enjoy and let me know what you think!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hckuoo9n41s" width="640"></iframe>LaSandrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04207768089041907981noreply@blogger.com0