Christmas Blessings

Each Tuesday night, we have a Bible study with a small group in our neighborhood.  This small group has helped us to grow in our walk with Christ more than we ever dreamed. 

We have been involved in some service/mission projects through this group as well.  On the first Tuesday of every month, we go to the Women's Hightway 80 shelter to serve dinner to the ladies.  We serve pizza, salad and brownies (nothing too special).  Last week after serving dinner,we sang a few Christmas carols and passed out bags to the childre.  We also had a new lady at the shelter and she was such a joy to meet.  She had been at the shelter for just three days and could not stop talking about how she felt like a queen being there.  She is a strong believer.  She said many times that pizza is her favorite food.  She was so grateful that we were there and we made her feel like a queen.  Trust me when I say, she was such a blessing to meet. 

We also work with Hannah's House.  This is a Christian shelter for young ladies who are pregnant but not married.  If you don't much about it I will be more than willing to share.  They work with girls that are may chooose to keep their child or give their child up for adoption.  You can learn more about there here: http://www.plministries.org/. 

 Last night we had a Christmas party for these young ladies and the family who ministers to them.  Our job was to provide food for the party and each of us signed up to bring gifts for the girls.  We did not know girls and only had a list of what they wanted for Christmas.  Little did I know, I would take gifts for a girl that would truly touch my heart.  As she was opening her gifts, she began to cry (tears of joy).  She later shared that she has NEVER had a Christmas before and was completely overwhelmed.  She also shared that on Christmas day in 1999, she lost her Grandmother.  Tears fell from all of our eyes as she shared her story with us.  It was such a blessing to hear from some of these ladies.  Please lift up these young girls as she go through this pregnancy.  Many are not in contact with their family.  Most of the girls are this time are planning on raising their child but there is one for sure that has met the family that will adopt her child. 

Our Journey

Yes, I'm still alive but things have been crazy busy.  Working, we just had our Christmas program at church yesterday, and just getting ready for the holidays. 

 Steven and I a on a journey together.  I'm trying to lose weight (in hopes that this will help with having a baby) and he is trying to gain weight.  We've joined the Good Shepeherd Healthy Institute and love it.  We have a good time working out and spending time together.  I find that I have more energy, am not hungry as often, and don't seem to want as many sweets as I have in the past.  So far, I've lost 9 pounds and I already feel better.  Please pray that I'm able to stay strong even through the Christmas break. 

We are so excited about getting to go to Colorado next week to visit Steven's family for the first half of our Christmas break.  We will get to meet our only niece (who will be one in January) and see most of Steven's family.  What a blessing to be able to go.  Pray that we have safe travels and good weather while we are there. 

Steven is still searching for a full time job.  This semester, he took classes at LeTourneau and was a full time sub at  the middle school in Hallsville.  Since the lady he's been subbing for quit, he will find out tomorrow if the position will still be available next semester.  If so, he will be able to apply for the job.  We know that God has a job for Steven but things can be hard and stressful waiting for His timing for that job. 

We continue to desire to be parents and know that God has something big in store.  We know that we will probably have to do some form of fertility.  That costs money and we have to wait until Steven has a job.  Until then, we will keep loving on our nephews and friends' kiddos. 

If I don't get to write again, I am praying that each of you has a Merry Christmas.  Remember that true love came in a stable many years ago.  Jesus loves you and desires a relationship with each and every one of us.  He is the reason we celelbrate this season.

Delicious Recipes

Not my normal blog but I have made a few "must make" recipes today (dinner and snack for Bible Study tomorrow) I wanted to share.

Creamy Crock Pot Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thawed)
1 can Cream of Chicken soup
1 can Cream of Mushroom soup
1 cup Sour Cream
1 package Onion Soup mix
Nature's Seasoning (to taste)

Mix all ingredients together in the Crock Pot.  Push chicken breast down into the mixture to cover them well. Sprinkle Nature's Seasoning across the top. Cook on low for 8 hours.  I served it over rice. Delicious

Pumpkin Muffins

1 can Pumpkin
1 box yellow cake mix
Cinnamon

Blend Pumpkin and cake mix with hand mixer until well blended. Sprinkle Cinnamon across the top and stir together well.  Cook at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes (depends on the oven).  Makes 24 regular muffins or I did 48 mini muffins.

Enjoy!

God Provides

Well who knew the first of school would be so crazy busy?  It has been a great year so far and God has blessed me with three great classes. It has been fun getting to know my students and getting used to my new schedule.  The last time I posted, we were praying like crazy for God to provide Steven a job.

At this time, Steven is taking classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays at LeTourneau.  Because he has 8 months left on the GI bill, he is getting paid for this.  Just after he was official registered, he got a call from Hallsville.  He is subbing at the Middle School Monday, Wednesday, Friday every week until further notice.  It has been awesome to watch God work.  He is providing for our every need and more.

Last night, we started Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey.  I'm excited to see how quickly God will work as we follow our budget and trust Him.

We continue to desire to be parents and know that it will all work (one way or another) in Go'd perfect timing.  He's ways are perfect and He knows what is best for us. 

The Big Day

I may sound like a nerd but I'm really excited about the first day of school.  The night before the first day, I'm always excited.  I've already packed my lunch and made sure my clothes are ironed. 

As the year starts, I pray that I will be able to be a light in my classroom, the hallways, and teachers' workroom.  I am very excited about this year.  I've been teaching 3rd grade starting my 9th year.  This year, I am only going to be teaching Science, Writing, and Social Studies.  I'm excited to see what God has in store and can't wait to get to know my students. 

I ask that you continue to pray as the year begins.  We are still waiting to see what God has in store for Steven.  He's applied to sub in Hallsville, as a parole officer, and is applying at Eastman.  We know God has a job in store.

God Hears Our Prayers

As I write today, I'm reminded how much God truly does hear our prayers.  Steven likes to listen to the sermans of his pastor from Florida.  This is a great way to start our day if we have an hour to listen.  Today, Steven left his office door open so I was able to listen as well to the serman. Man, does God hear our prayers.  The message today at the beginning spoke specifically to people who are searching for a job.  In fact, the pastor stopped his message and asked those searching for a job to stand.  He then prayed for this people that God would continue to be with them as they search, that God would open the right door for a job, and that they would be able to keep their heads high as they continue to search and trust God for the perfect job.  Wow, that was the perfect way to start the day as Steven continues to search and pray for where God would have him to be.
He had another interview in Marshall yesterday but they called and chose someone else for the job.  The job would have been for an aide position and would not have paid much (Steven would have also had to go to school full time to make enough money). Today he is going to been with a parole officer about a possible position.  We know without a doubt that God has the perfect job for Steven, but the waiting is not always easy.
Constantly praying and seeking His Kingdom!

Job Search Continues

It's been a while but we finally have internet at our house.  Steven is still looking for a job.  We konw that God provides and has the perfect job for him.  I ask that you please continue to pray for us during this time.  He's looking for jobs anywhere....not just in education since that is next to impossible in the state of Texas. 

We are praying Jeremiah 29:11 because we know God has a plan.

Four Years

At this time four years ago, we had finished our vows, taken pictures and were headed to our reception.  God has blessed our marriage beyond all we ever dreamed.  I know that he has blessed us because we strive to constantly lean on Him and trust him to take care of us and provide for our needs.  He has been our rock in the good and bad times.

In the past four years, we've been through a lot.  We've been through losing Steven's mom and my Grandma.  We've had twin nephews and a niece born.  One time that we can't wait for is the birth or our own children.  As we pray, we know that God will bless us in His perfect timing.  We also know that it will be much easier for us to have children when Steven has a full-time job.

Please pray that God will provide the perfect job for Steven.  We are still waiting to hear from Marshall ISD (the coach was waiting to talk to the administration).  If that isn't the job for Him, we know that God will provide in one way or another.  Please continue to pray as we desire to be parents but wait on God's perfect timing.

Happy Anniversary to the love of my life and my best friend.  I love you Steven!

God Provides and Happy 4th

On Friday, Steven interviewed for a job to coach Jr. High football and varsity baseball (assistant) in Marshall.  The interview went really well and he seems very positive about the job.  The head coach is a great christian man which was very encouraging to us.  Please pray that the door will be opened on this job (if it is God's will of course).  If not we know that God provides and will open the perfet door. 

This morning, Brother Steve preached a message about our nation.  We were reminded of the fact that our country was founded on christian morals and values.  Tomorrow, as we celebrate the 4th of July, remember our sodiers as they continue to fight for our freedom.  Also, say a prayer for our nation.  Have a happy 4th of July.

Happy birthday

Steven is 34 today and I want to tell him Happy Birthday!  It seems like it wasn't long ago when I was making him a scrapbook to send him for his 29th birthday in Afghanistan.  We've been through so much and celebrated many birthdays together since them.  God blessed me with a husband that is greater than I ever dreamed. I love him with all my heart.

Please continue to pray as he searches for a job.  The interview went great the other day but it was only for a part-time job and only for 3 months. 

Happy birthday Steven and I love you!

Trusting God

It has been forever since I've posted.  I'm working with three year olds for the summer at the school my mom works at, so I've been beyond busy this summer.  It is nice to have a break in the middle of the day....nap time.  Steven is working here as the Gross Motor (PE) teacher for the summer.

Today, I come asking for prayer. Last night, I found myself literally crying (could not stop the tears from falling) out to God to provide Steven with a job.  Though we've just started summer break, school will be here before we know it.  Because he graduated with his Education degree the year that pretty much no one is hiring, we know that it may be a long shot. 

Today, however, he is meeting with the Athletic Director here at Trinity.  They are in need of several coaches so it is a possibility.

Steven has been stressed about not having a job lined out.  When he is stressed, he constantly has stomach aches/pains (due to a hyeital hernia). He still hasn't heard from Barksdale AFB about the security job.  He heard from San Antonio that he was qualified for the job and his resume and application had been sent on.

I have always been taught to pray specifically and that is exactly what I did last night.  I prayed that God would open a door this week for a job.  I prayed that Steven would hear from Barksdale this week (whether they want him to work there or not).  I prayed that he would be able to meet with the Athletic Director at Trinity.  

God is already answering prayers...as I knew He would. Please pray that God will open the door to the job He has for Steven. 

Someone Important to me

Before I begin, I have to say that there are so many people I could write about that are important to me (and I will some other time).  In writing today, my students had to write about someone that is important to them (and of course, why they are important to them).

a hint to who I'll write about today on her wedding day nearly 5 years ago

My sister is as beautiful inside as she is on the outside.  Though we've had our differences in the past, we still love each other (I hope she would say the same about me...hehe).  She's my best friend and is always there for me when I need her.  Brittany knows exactly what to say at the right time.  When I need a laugh, I can ALWAYS count on her to give me one.  When I need a smile, she has one waiting.  In times of trouble, I can count on her to keep me in her prayers and call to check on me.  God blessed me with an incredible sister, even though I told mom and dad to take her back to the hospital where they found her when I was just 2 1/2.  I didn't see a need for her then, but I couldn't live without her now.  

at Maddie Kay's first birthday party

A year ago today, Britt was put in hospital for week while we waited on Mason and Maddox to join our family.  They came a week later and have blessed our family since.  Brittany is the perfect mom to those sweet boys, our nephews.  Thank you Britt, for being the greatest sister I could ask for.  Love you!

Maddox and Mason (our alomst one year old nephews)

Job

I write today asking that you all say a prayer as Steven is searching for a job.  He graduated in May from ETBU with a degree in education.  If you live in Texas, you know that there are NO teaching jobs, especially PE teachers.  He turned in an application with Barskdale AFB to be a security guard.  Because of his 10 years of military experience, he has a great resume and will fit the job perfectly.  He would not need much training, would get benefits, it will pay well, and he seems really excited about it.  Right now, he's working as the PE/gross motor and upper level teacher at Trinity and having a good time.  We know that God will provide the perfect job at the perfect time. 

Memorial Day

This morning when Steven woke up, he said "this time 5 years ago, I was in Afghanistan."  I remember how hard that time was because we were so far apart and I was constantly praying for his safety.  It wasn't until he got back to the states that he told me how he prayed daily that there would be no bombs go off while we were on the phone.  He said Memorial Day was the worst day while they were there.  That is just the story of one solider.  Today we celebrate Memorial Day.  I'm so thankful for all those who serve our country.  I am thankful for those soldiers and families who sacrificed so we can live in freedom in the United States.  As you celebrate with family and friends today, remember those who we are celebrating.

Our Love Story

Steven and I are coming up on our 4th wedding anniversary on July 14th.  Our story is different from many other couples.  We love to share our love story and know God brought us together at the perfect time in both or our lives. 


In January 2005, I had a friend tell me about www.bigchurch.com so I signed up to make new friends.  By that time, many of my friends had gotten married (or all my ETBU friends were back home)  so I didn't have a lot of single friends to hang out with.  I talked to a few people as friends and then got a message from Steven.  We talked for a while through email just getting to know each other.  After about 3 months of him asking, I finally gave in to giving him my phone number...I did meet him online after all.


We continued to get to know each other through email and phone until late May.  In May of 2005, he was in the process of moving from Iceland to Germany.  We didn't talk through the summer (email or phone) so I assumed he lost interest.  In August, I felt like God was telling me to email him again.  I did and heard from him that day.  He had just  gotten his internet hooked up at his home in Germany that week.  He said that in the move, he lost my phone number but wanted to talk to me many times through the summer.  I gave him my number again and we talked several times a week.  


In January 2006, on my 25th birthday to be exact, we finally met in person.  He had been in San Antonio for training and flew into Longview for a night.  We spent my birthday together.  We went to Lifeway, Cheddars for lunch, and went to see the first Chronicles of Narnia movie.  He got to meet my family and friends that day since my friends had planned dinner at Papaciatas for my birthday.


On Sunday after church and lunch with my family, he and I went to Starbucks and then the park before I took him back to the airport.  We talked about everything at Starbucks...he told me all about his life and his family.  He asked me to pray about dating him.  At the park we just walked and talked some more. 


When we said "goodbye" at the airport, we left praying about if we were supposed to date. I told him the following day that I wanted to be his girlfriend (because he actually asked me to pray about that) but we were sad because we knew it would be at least 6 months before we would see each other again.  Little did we know that I would be driving down to meet his family the next weekend.


During the next 9 months, we were able to see each other many times.  In March, I was able to go visit him in Germany.  While I was there, we drive to Paris, France one day.  In April, his father passed away and he was able to come back to Texas and I was able to go see him and go to the funeral.  He was able to come back home with me for Easter.  That weekend he asked Dad if he could marry me but Dad told him to wait.  Dad had to reasons, Steven and I had only been dating 3 months and Steven was leaving for Afghanistan in May for 4 months.  When he came back in October, he asked me to marry him on our 9 month anniversary.


I went to see him again at Christmas in Germany....against my mom's will.  She couldn't believe I wasn't going to be home for Christmas.  In February, he was out of the Air Force for good and he moved to Longview.  We finished wedding plans and bought our first home to fix up until the wedding.


God has brought us through so much since January 2006 and we've been beyond blessed.  We have our dream home, I'm teaching 3rd grade with the greatest, most supportive coworkers ever, we have our sweet dog Bella (our child in training as I said in my first post), and we are part of a wonderful church/Sunday School class.  We are still waiting on God to bless us with our first time, but we wait patiently on his perfect timing. 


I know it's a long post but I just wanted to share to story of how I met my Prince Charming (Steven John Waalwyk).



Time Flies

As the school year is drawing to an end, I'm reminded how fast time goes by.  This school year seems like it just started but now here we are, only 6 days left with students.  God truly blessed me with a great class this year.  We laughed (sometimes to tears) and learned so much this year.   

In just a few weeks, our nephews will be a year old.  It seems like they were just 4 lb 6 oz and 5 lb 5 oz...I know my sister would agree.  They are crawling all over the place, picking on each other (as siblings do), saying a few words, and growing like crazy.

It has been a great year so far and I can't wait to see what God has in store.  As we wait on God to direct Steven to the right job, we are leaning on His provision.  As we wait for God to bless us with a child (in His time and whatever way is His will), we wait patiently.   

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

In 2000, I was given the opportunity to go to Passion 2000 in Memphis, TN.  I was excited because I knew we we hear from Louie Giglio, Voddie Baucham, Beth Moore, Chris Tomlin, and many more.   

When I left, I was excited for my frist road trip with my college friends.  I had no clue what was in store and how God would change my life when I got there.  We arrived late Friday evening and were greeted by Beth Moore.  She prayed over our car and for each of us in the car for God to speak to us.  Of course, our first thought was that was cool that Beth Moore had just prayed for us. 

As the weekend went on, I grew closer to God.  The most vivid memory and one that changed my life was during the song "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross."  As the song began, someone came from the back carrying a wodden cross.  The cross was carried over our heads all the  way to the stage as people reached out to touch it.  When the cross was at the standing at the foot of the stage, I watched as people fell face down and cried out to God.  It was a clear reminder of what the cross truly means. 

I want to live my life daily focused on the cross.  It is because of the cross that we live in freedom.  It is because of the cross that we are forgiven.  It is because of the cross that we have eternal life.  

    

Pass the Baton

At our neighborhood Bible Study the other night, we were reminded of a great lesson. 

In the 2008 Summer Olympics, both US relay teams were winning.  As it came to passing the baton from the 3rd to the 4th leg, both teams dropped the baton.  Due to the teams dropping the baton, the US lost the Gold.


In our lives as Christians, we are to be "passing the baton."  Our lives should be an example to those around us.  Everyone around us is watching us to see what example we are setting.  Unfortunately, I know speaking for myself, I'm not always setting the example I want to set.  I find myself complaining along with others.  As girls, we often get caught in the trap of gossiping before we even realize it.  People around us are watching to see if we will mess up.    


As we learned in Bible study, we often only live through two generations of our family line.  How will you pass the baton on to those in the generations after you?  I want to leave a legacy of Jesus Christ to those who come behind me.  Though we don't have children of our own, we have a neice and 5 nephews.  I want them to see Jesus in my life and want to be able to share Him with them so they can pass the baton on to those behind them. 


I pray today that I'm living a life that is shining the name of Jesus.  I pray that my words and actions will speak His name.  I pray that I "pass the baton" on to all who I come in contact with each day.
   

Blessings

Each day I'm reminded how blessed I truly am.  God has blessed me with Steven and has worked in our marriage every day.  He's blessed us with our sweet puppy that is, as we like to call, our child in training.  He has blessed us with our dream home.  Through this, we've already been able to open our home up for Bible studies and times of fellowship.  He has blessed us with family and friends that support and encourage us all the time. 


Though we are praying desperately for God to bless us with a child, we know that His timing is perfect.  He will bless us with a child, whether  our own or through adoption, when the time is right.  I know that God is teaching us patience and He's with us in the process of waiting for His timing.

The song "Blessings" by Laura Story is speaking to me daily and I often find myself singing it in my head.  If you haven't heard it, here are the lyrics.

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know the pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise

I pray that as I go throughout the day, I'm reminding that God will bring blessings through everything in our lives.

James 1:2-3