tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-207565772024-03-07T03:10:41.111-05:00the uhls family...jason, mel, riley and reeduhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.comBlogger157125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-79519495960209063372011-02-25T15:26:00.002-05:002011-02-25T15:30:20.696-05:00GIVEaway!Hey all - just wanted you to know about FREE giveaway from Wild Olive Tees - if you haven't heard of them - it's worth your time. Great t-shirts with awesome scripture on the front and sometimes back. I was introduced to them from my sister, who purchased these for the boys for their birthdays... the LOVE THEM!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7yjaAWkciTXtT2G6PLl4P4lUqACawpM9juwHjMQmSXDL2SVZghT8mADK80Cssoal9XscN_7maabc8-SYPETyRsNhGNkgzIAoM2i5bVMI3-iEbT9ZsIlmfYjNsJdce5mmfnsQS/s1600/fear-not-back-250.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7yjaAWkciTXtT2G6PLl4P4lUqACawpM9juwHjMQmSXDL2SVZghT8mADK80Cssoal9XscN_7maabc8-SYPETyRsNhGNkgzIAoM2i5bVMI3-iEbT9ZsIlmfYjNsJdce5mmfnsQS/s400/fear-not-back-250.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577727042156159570" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDU9V3W5il1trrav3jyFY0lQHO28mZDBTKea_o1jbXcQMQ70-wVjYMSiPfZdmhAGD8StF2vi30a8k9xqTbtYI_wxvKpDol0PUnqPhGDKr2-8EcYxoNN_Jj6X3jupJ1tpuQJueX/s1600/fear-not-front-250.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDU9V3W5il1trrav3jyFY0lQHO28mZDBTKea_o1jbXcQMQ70-wVjYMSiPfZdmhAGD8StF2vi30a8k9xqTbtYI_wxvKpDol0PUnqPhGDKr2-8EcYxoNN_Jj6X3jupJ1tpuQJueX/s400/fear-not-front-250.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577727044659575410" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Anyway, they are giving away a new hoodie - click on the link to the right to enter! Would be fun!!!<br /><br />Hope all of you are doing well!<br /><br />Love,<br />Mel and the boysuhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-4052930356643686542010-12-29T13:40:00.000-05:002010-12-29T13:41:21.035-05:00Merry Christmas from the UHLS family :-)<object width="400" height="224" ><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://www.facebook.com/v/480523304388" /><embed src="http://www.facebook.com/v/480523304388" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="224"></embed></object>uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-30759834523579378912010-10-04T10:40:00.004-04:002010-10-04T11:22:44.001-04:00howdyDO!well, let's see - once again it has been quite awhile since posting... :-)<br /><br />what's going on with the uhls family? well, a lot of this and a lot of that! riley is loving 1st grade and has now acquired a love of basketball (aunt dd, know you will LOVE that!). his teacher is mrs. mcclure and riley found out a few weeks in that they share the same birthday. made his YEAR! :-) reed is doing well in his first year of nursery school. his teacher is mrs. kimberly and she says, "so far, so good!" he is quite the trooper and on MOST days, he is excited about going!<br /><br />jason is doing well too - hasn't been traveling as much - for which the boys and i are so thankful. we have been so SPOILED to have him here with us... we like it A.LOT! :-) his job in arizona is on hold until about january, but in the meantime he has been working on some bids for "things" in chattanooga. we would love that! <br /><br />i have started a new bible study - BSF - and we are studying Isaiah and it has been soooo good. jason is studying jeremiah, so it's fun to be studying "similiar" books. I also have started volunteering in riley's classroom on tuesdays while reed is at school. last week was my first week and I will be going back tomorrow. it is sooo fun to be in there and mrs. mcclure is so nice to have something specific for me to do! i also have been praying about giggles and company - whether to continue that - or phase it out. i haven't had a clear answer yet to that - so in the meantime, jason had the great idea that i could use it for a *kingdom* purpose. so, we (and i use that term loosely b/c it was mostly his great idea) came up with this:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_lnUnOiyU7xLfW8TcN-_azZk3Ry7jgr5v4x65NH0WJFdHdJis2GCHVsafcPEYiExLpBchKieoGBzxm0myomJ917NhLNs783pX11NQ8NzVpWQQb0hXfpT1egdj2sJN6nP7E3-/s1600/mu_webscc.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 227px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_lnUnOiyU7xLfW8TcN-_azZk3Ry7jgr5v4x65NH0WJFdHdJis2GCHVsafcPEYiExLpBchKieoGBzxm0myomJ917NhLNs783pX11NQ8NzVpWQQb0hXfpT1egdj2sJN6nP7E3-/s400/mu_webscc.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524202745989765170" /></a><br /><br />it is a set of notecards - just simple thank you's or thinking of you, or whatever you could use them for - and the proceeds - all of it - will go to renovating the old richmond road mall to be southland christian church's next campus. this campus is going to be the hands and feet of jesus in an area of lexington that rarely gets any positive attention. so... if you want a way to be involved, here is a small way in which you can :-)<br /><br />so, on another note... i was thinking it was time for the QUESTIONS to return!!! so... post back with your answers and i will do the same!<br /><br />1. what is your favorite part about fall?<br />2. if you could go on a mission trip, where would it be and why?<br />3. what are your favorite jeans?<br />4. so you leave your toilet LID (not seat) up or down when not in use?<br />5. do you give your kids chocolate milk?<br />6. regular ruled or college ruled paper?<br />7. facebook, twitter, or neither?<br />8. do you like the kleenex with lotion?<br /><br />let me hear from you!!!!<br /><br />and just a sweet picture from a stroll down memory lane...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5mVs4Ln375xwLOkyb7NIS4iIV-TEq5mstwySuXYQhy0qZwcJGt3NJLPpcuHdcwCBVy78M96NULkzMbFevvMZGhQnnLfozNU5mVE6T-dwrjNsG7bAnFz_C1Ih4n2Tf47eAUWW/s1600/DSC00521.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5mVs4Ln375xwLOkyb7NIS4iIV-TEq5mstwySuXYQhy0qZwcJGt3NJLPpcuHdcwCBVy78M96NULkzMbFevvMZGhQnnLfozNU5mVE6T-dwrjNsG7bAnFz_C1Ih4n2Tf47eAUWW/s400/DSC00521.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524211437571830290" /></a>uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-25172638633101428122010-08-13T07:23:00.006-04:002010-08-13T08:31:55.945-04:00what.a.week.I'm just saying.<br /><br />Watching your oldest walk in to 1st grade and then the <span style="font-weight:bold;">very next day</span> delivering a dear dear dear friend to the airport. Not just for a vacation, but for a move some 900 miles away. <br /><br />Reality sometimes hurts.<br /><br />So, here I am. On the verge of tears at ANY minute. Wishing with all that is in me that I can take back that moment of seeing Jamie walk away. Erase the HORRIBLE heaving cries that occurred afterwards (Shannon, you know the kind!) and just go back to life like it was...<br /><br />Then you hear that still, quiet voice...<br /><br />"I am in control. I have this. I truly do. YOU can't do for her what I can."<br /><br />Then this scripture comes to mind...<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those <span style="font-weight:bold;">who love him</span>, who have been called according to his purpose." Rom 8:28 </span><br /><br />So, this is for real. We stand on this edge - about to make a choice - do we BELIEVE that - or don't we? <br /><br />That's the thing. I KNOW it, it is just sometimes so hard to make your mind think what your heart knows. YOU KNOW?<br /><br />I know you know :-).<br /><br />So to Jamie - I thank you and will continue to thank you...<br /><br />... for asking the hard questions<br />... for praying WITH me, FOR me and BESIDE me<br />... for allowing me in to your innermost thoughts<br />... for being the friend i wish all girls had<br />... for loving on my kids so very very very much<br />... for trusting me with yours<br />... for making me rely on God instead of people<br />... for loving me unconditionally<br />... for allowing Jesus to shine through you<br />... for not being petty<br />... for always being hopeful<br />... for making me a better me<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmyrbWqP6GcKcaGqkvPvfyD1bfpgeDus2c20ejm8nqRrfTrKOqcltagAQzOHP3xjREwdNrfqV42-tE7vo4on5UzioFrmZeYIUfQpn_dInrHLLzr9VtZyXQ_a9djUBRr-XSZOrk/s1600/jamie3.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 324px; height: 186px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmyrbWqP6GcKcaGqkvPvfyD1bfpgeDus2c20ejm8nqRrfTrKOqcltagAQzOHP3xjREwdNrfqV42-tE7vo4on5UzioFrmZeYIUfQpn_dInrHLLzr9VtZyXQ_a9djUBRr-XSZOrk/s400/jamie3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504865594915454482" /></a><br /><br />I'm so thankful Texas is not Japan. So thankful for phones. So thankful for texting (thank goodness you all finally did that). So thankful for airplanes. So thankful for skype. So thankful for email. <br /><br />I still miss you here though.uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-45959612475874685352010-08-12T00:53:00.003-04:002010-08-12T01:18:02.161-04:00.first.grade.Well, today was the day. <br /><br />Today was the day our oldest walked in to first grade. And he did great.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqu75sQwjyNOY3T6Yrd6WUMuBdax6blMd2lre9_4PmmpFQoltq_Wl2HgS6cCU-mLB-8NpDZnIWMGTBu-27HP3q9PtnKfWdEIYvhqZLVSMUWvpBim3L5s6prTe0zaRJEuyp_pJ/s1600/photoriley.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqu75sQwjyNOY3T6Yrd6WUMuBdax6blMd2lre9_4PmmpFQoltq_Wl2HgS6cCU-mLB-8NpDZnIWMGTBu-27HP3q9PtnKfWdEIYvhqZLVSMUWvpBim3L5s6prTe0zaRJEuyp_pJ/s400/photoriley.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504382877107588530" /></a><br /><br />If you remember my post a year ago - man, it was t.o.u.g.h. And this year, well, pretty much the same. I revisited my journal entry that first day of Kindergarten and of course the tears just came a rolling. Not because I was upset really, but because the emotion of it all was still so fresh that I could feel it again.<br /><br />But what I came away with was this - we sure did have a lot of answered prayers during Riley's last year of school. Right down to having "some kind" (as I put it in my journal) of a connection with Riley's teacher that we met for the first time at open house (we continually to be blessed with her friendship). And I am confident that it has a something to do with the fact that I gave Riley to HIM afresh after that first day of kindergarten, and after talking with my dear friend Jamie tonight, I am going to do that again shortly after closing this posting. As parents, we sometimes get preoccupied with our schedules, our busy lives and just those silly to-do lists that I always make. <br /><br />And we forget.<br /><br />Forget that we need to be <span style="font-weight:bold;">intentional. <span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><br />Especially when sending our kids out from under our direct protection. (Thank you DD, for that reminder today, as well.)<br /><br />So, Jason and I sat down and thought of ways to <span style="font-weight:bold;">specifically</span> pray for Riley during this first grade school year. It was fun to get our ideas together and it opened up a great conversation for what we feel is important for him. It's so fun to think that we will be on the same page each and every day as we are praying for our son. <br /><br />We may not get them all covered each and every day... but it will surely get us started.uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-66480393446675898672010-07-22T08:15:00.004-04:002010-07-22T08:42:12.303-04:00building your house on the rock...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswHYt-MQ5ntbiZfY4B3DkYvBhKQIKlXpy_Yew6UAnIbUaaH8RQYmzMCgPAdTShRTAgzOZrZDrVj6FWvWqJq-5uw8xOB_fjN8J5QDhNYHfCAT8XArNpcgdH1lQN-M13HVwMRlJ/s1600/photo22.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswHYt-MQ5ntbiZfY4B3DkYvBhKQIKlXpy_Yew6UAnIbUaaH8RQYmzMCgPAdTShRTAgzOZrZDrVj6FWvWqJq-5uw8xOB_fjN8J5QDhNYHfCAT8XArNpcgdH1lQN-M13HVwMRlJ/s400/photo22.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496708224017661042" /></a><br />the boys and i were walking along the creek yesterday surveying the damage from the storm the night before. we had left some "valuables" out - not knowing that there was a storm coming through - one of those kind that make the creek swell so big and sweep with it all that has been left unsecured...<br /><br />we lost:<br />our 6 person tent<br />4 lanterns<br />our play pool<br />our slide<br /><br />but some good things that were NOT swept away:<br />pup tent<br />6 lanterns<br />riley's favorite tool (hatchet kind of thing)<br />rake<br />hammock<br />edger<br />glass table<br />(and really the list could go on...)<br /><br />our loses were much LESS in comparison to what was saved. isn't that like life sometimes? but we don't realize it until later on - after the storm has passed? <br /><br />from that thought my mind went to the parable of building your house on the rock - meaning, have a firm foundation (be secured down) so that when storms come, your home will not be destroyed. isn't that one of the reasons we study the bible and pray without ceasing. so that we will KNOW the LORD much better - so that we can recognize his voice - so that WHEN (not if) the storms come that we will not be swept away... what better way to show the world that we mean what we say we believe - to not crumble when trials come. To be able to STAND knowing that having the LORD on our side is enough - that HE truly has our back... <br /><br />so for those girls of mine that are going through such tough times right now, you know who you are...<br /><br />i see the LORD in you<br />keep on KEEPING on...<br />for what other reason have you dug in to get to know the maker of the world than for times as these...<br /><br />HE is relying on you to come to HIM<br />you are doing such a magnificent job...<br />and you are showing me the true meaning of FAITH and TRUST.<br /><br />HE takes great delight in YOU,<br />you are so VALUABLE to HIM... and to me.uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-13167846514640159562010-06-23T00:29:00.003-04:002010-06-23T00:53:23.918-04:00thank*fulI'm sitting in Bowling Green, visiting with my sister and her family and our mom and dad this week. It is always so fun to have a house FULL of fun, laughter and memories. I sure wouldn't trade it for anything...<br /><br />So tonight, I get a sweet little treasure. When getting ready for bed, Riley comes up to me and says that his belly isn't feeling so well and that he wanted to sleep in the room with me and Reed. As he gets older, this is NOT a common occurance b/c he wants to be with the girls, 24/7. So, Riley and I are cuddling in the bed that I grew up in - so funny to think about that! - and just chatting and talking about Toy Story 3. Sweetness. Leigha then brings Reed up to the room (they had all been telling stories and cuddling on Nanny and Papa's bed) for him to go to bed as well. He wanted to sleep in my old bed too. So, reluctantly, I put them to bed in the same bed, in the same room. Some 30 minutes later, this is what I found...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgINRF-Zh4-nFWUKMz6RruQtGTsznz0PepLlFrK5oRebDeC7zBPTBmXeS2xEmb8G90FlVzDog5fEkGesKWkEGzCuhArbvfvzRUU8OYwBHGv2tkib73wOJ0Tj5X12hcKqN998vnW/s1600/photo11.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgINRF-Zh4-nFWUKMz6RruQtGTsznz0PepLlFrK5oRebDeC7zBPTBmXeS2xEmb8G90FlVzDog5fEkGesKWkEGzCuhArbvfvzRUU8OYwBHGv2tkib73wOJ0Tj5X12hcKqN998vnW/s400/photo11.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485823736792222946" /></a><br /><br />Sweet as can be.<br /><br />Out cold.<br /><br />And mine... well, ours, but you know what I'm getting at...<br /><br /><br /><br />I just stopped and marveled at them for a bit. I wasn't thinking of the "issues" we had had during the day - the bullying, the crying for dark blue blankey, the insisting that we had already had dinner so they could eat the cupcakes... no, I was just 100% completely enamored with them. It wasn't because of anything they had done, or hadn't done. I was just happy looking at them. And I got to thinking, I wonder if God feels that way about us. Sometimes, I hope it is refreshing for Him to look at us and just be PROUD that we've made some tough decision and are trusting Him through it. That we don't hide the fact that sometimes life is hard - but that doesn't mean that God isn't good. That hopefully, somehow, Jesus shines through - and that makes Him happy.<br /> <br />I think sometimes I forget to remember that God is head over heals about us, like I was just a few minutes ago seeing my sons conked out together :-).<br /><br />Rest well, friends. Knowing that He's keeping an eye out for you - even as you sleep.uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-59273133166031002162010-05-28T08:42:00.005-04:002010-05-28T09:02:57.046-04:00rain*RAIN<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuyiIJc9alSqyzSNfq4DYo0i4_UP5U5GbSc8jcuEUoB992udwO93v0ctkJUxFKkYsIuZb5tjzPl7b0XHE3rxXVxPYU9iezePS8osifeeM37ppUpIqmA9LVNV5QOQ2AFTU6Zv-/s1600/aphoto.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuyiIJc9alSqyzSNfq4DYo0i4_UP5U5GbSc8jcuEUoB992udwO93v0ctkJUxFKkYsIuZb5tjzPl7b0XHE3rxXVxPYU9iezePS8osifeeM37ppUpIqmA9LVNV5QOQ2AFTU6Zv-/s200/aphoto.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5476301199411001922" /></a><br /><br />So, this morning I just had to blog. I am finishing up my "believing god" bible study that I started some 3 years ago (hehe) and I re-read the story of Moses and Joshua. Joshua was moses' right hand man. Beth Moore was describing the tent of meeting, (which I sometimes wish we could physically see a cloud over a tent to know that it's GOD we are hearing from instead of our own limited minds, but I digress...) Anywho, the tent of meeting was where Moses would go to speak with GOD. However, Exodus 33:7 says, "<span style="font-weight:bold;">anyone</span> inquiring of the LORD would go to the tent of meeting outside the camp.". However, what we see happen is way different. What is recorded next is that everyone <span style="font-weight:bold;">watched<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span> Moses from AFAR when he would approach the tent. Isn't that what we do?!?! We look at the Beth Moore's and the Jon Weece's and the Creflo Dollar's of this day and age and WATCH them draw near the glory of GOD? Why do we settle for a secondhand relationship?!?! Seriously?!?!<br /><br />So, at that point, I laid my bible down and just started praying. We have a friend that is going through some tough times right now, so I started by just praising God that I know he is working in and through that situation and that we had NOT put him in a box - even in this HUGE deal... then I just started telling God that I didn't want to any longer just stand on the side lines watching, that I was ready... and I had closed my eyes and I heard this sweet sound... for some reason, I asked Jason this morning what the weather looked like today (and I was even in the garage and could see for myself?!?) His reply was, "well, it looks like rain." DUH! I don't know why it mattered to me today - we don't have any outdoor activities planned. So, back to the sound... what I heard was a slow hum, and when I opened my eyes, I looked out that it was just slow DRENCHING rain, followed by a very loud thunder. And immediately it was symbolic to ME, specifically to ME at that time. I have been slowly being poured in to and this morning was like THUNDER to me. Let's no longer settle for being secondhand. Let's make the effort, let's do this for REAL! AMEN?!?!?!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-51627522297088115942010-05-05T12:08:00.003-04:002010-05-05T12:27:11.630-04:00drop*by<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZBEgrTwzceylH_oavJGtN2PxqIuf3kRSPVlkAQXYIFC-J2XgmpKBPjORvopnRKCPBKoO0Y4aUevc4W7kh5YUIDIQhv08EyrBIkgOhV5QL9i73IjzepWVncVfxc4v_binqwzA/s1600/vup.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZBEgrTwzceylH_oavJGtN2PxqIuf3kRSPVlkAQXYIFC-J2XgmpKBPjORvopnRKCPBKoO0Y4aUevc4W7kh5YUIDIQhv08EyrBIkgOhV5QL9i73IjzepWVncVfxc4v_binqwzA/s200/vup.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467818611188537138" /></a><br /><br />drop by visitors...<br />LOVE THEM!<br /><br />a friend was inspired by having a cup of tea with a dear friend and decided to get out the "real" china during their visit. so, she got out her wedding registry china and they savored a wonderful cup of tea together. her story, and the fact that we were revamping the kitchen and ran across our china (still in the packaging, i might add) inspired me to get two cups and saucers out. so, here they are. sitting next to the coffee pot anticipating the next drop by so that we can actually use them!<br /><br />after i sat them out - i got a little teary. don't know why really... well, seems like i am a lot teary lately. just living, you know how it is... <br /><br />so, i got to thinking... i imagined God just waiting for us - having a fancy teacup and saucer just waiting for some time for us to sit down and visit. i've got that lump in my throat just typing it. see, i have these "things" that keep sneaking back in to my daily habits. things like being SHORT tempered with my kids, speaking to my husband in ways that i would NEVER speak to any of you, allowing my mind to focus on things that DO NOT MATTER.<br /><br />so, here's the thing...<br /><br />it goes back to ME.<br /><br />and not being able to do IT by myself...<br /><br />only HE can.<br /><br />so, if i would, each morning, just sit down for a cup of tea with the One that made me... i know that my actions would change, that even my first reactions would be Godly. <br /><br />now, why do we keep thinking WE can do it??? enjoy some tea/coffee time today, friends!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-37772645150304129692010-04-28T13:50:00.001-04:002010-04-28T13:50:40.417-04:00*sun*<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjruIG1BHvItZqD-TAuBSKH7_bpHOnpBRQdgDF-CjlZaaXdeYpMSzd0l8HJWfZ8nrU21NqD4-H96PZGl9J2tGjsQl6TndkGdcpXkYrwBog7QwnWiwAEMhvEhnu53n7rJdt-ItWm/s1600/IMG_0175.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjruIG1BHvItZqD-TAuBSKH7_bpHOnpBRQdgDF-CjlZaaXdeYpMSzd0l8HJWfZ8nrU21NqD4-H96PZGl9J2tGjsQl6TndkGdcpXkYrwBog7QwnWiwAEMhvEhnu53n7rJdt-ItWm/s200/IMG_0175.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465245536298125330" /></a><br />yes, hello, SUN!<br /><br />i think my mood has been altered by the LACK of sun that we have had. so, despite the fact that i am a little overwhelmed with the amount of work on my plate all of a sudden, despite the fact that my half bath downstairs smells LESS than desirable (something to do with a 3 year old having trouble aiming :o) and if anyone has a cure for this BESIDES ripping up the toilet and STARTING over, i would be much obliged), and despite the fact that i have NOT planned for dinner tonight... i think the boys and i are going to try to catch us some fish this afternoon after school. holey jeans and sweathshirt, here we come...<br /><br />the thing is - that i have realized, that the busier my life becomes, the <span style="font-weight:bold;">less</span> quality time i am spending with my kids. yes, i am a stay at home mom, HOWEVER, that doesn't mean that i am the best at maximizing the time that we have. it DOES mean that i sometimes take it for granted and just squander it away... and that truly STINKS. so, i'm going to be intentional today to fill my kids up this afternoon with NOTHING but fun and love. if the weather is nice where you are, i invite you to do the same. the laundry will wait, those texts can wait, that email can wait, so will those dirty dishes. i promise!!!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-37597735041947799812010-04-26T13:05:00.002-04:002010-04-26T13:09:53.002-04:00you.must.use<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQnTB_hHzJw6CNbjZhb5dB9BxzkB5lp3PJGuCUpYQydfcee8_Aq-ismI5EGhgwnfMIVXZKFr4Hxwkvk5bsY2zhxkChbpDtVN174qlxAgmLu_JSgZQkKVc0JG9EjeMly17LrZ5/s1600/frost.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQnTB_hHzJw6CNbjZhb5dB9BxzkB5lp3PJGuCUpYQydfcee8_Aq-ismI5EGhgwnfMIVXZKFr4Hxwkvk5bsY2zhxkChbpDtVN174qlxAgmLu_JSgZQkKVc0JG9EjeMly17LrZ5/s200/frost.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464493605730005154" /></a><br />For all of you out there that let your kids help out in the kitchen...<br /><br />this.is.a.must.have.<br /><br />AND, the cupcakes that you make look a bit like a bakery!!! well, that may be exaggerating it a bit, but you get the picture. the flavor i got was vanilla, but they also had a chocolate flavor as well. You can pile it up as HIGH as you want to. So stinkin' fun!<br /><br />on another note, my sis is having FRESH milk delivered to her door - in colorado that is - for those of you who live in KY, have you heard of a place that does this? i would LOVE to have milk delivered here :-). who doesn't like a package outside the door? much less every week???uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-11802255047613153972010-04-23T07:50:00.007-04:002010-04-23T09:58:01.149-04:00YARDsale :-)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKE1Y19JKTHTAipQ5IAvhEcHnkir5XkvZetdEWRvz2U1ssrnzg1-H2Lw68GrEQquyrfLRDPpX76rb4KjSYDYbJ0eHDsNjqHDrS6k3l9ifFbI56GaaU560IdXbrQxB4ZzTHuAKA/s1600/images.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 128px; height: 85px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKE1Y19JKTHTAipQ5IAvhEcHnkir5XkvZetdEWRvz2U1ssrnzg1-H2Lw68GrEQquyrfLRDPpX76rb4KjSYDYbJ0eHDsNjqHDrS6k3l9ifFbI56GaaU560IdXbrQxB4ZzTHuAKA/s320/images.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5463304440155206546" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Sitting here, watching the daddy duck walk back and forth on the driveway, awaiting those die hard garage sale shoppers come and check out the goods we have in the garage for sale. It's a rainy, rainy day here, but it's so fun to sit here and just talk to those coming in...<br /><br />A friend came over late last night to bring some goods and something that she said has been ringing in my mind. We've all heard it before...<br /><br />"one person's trash is another's treasure"<br /><br />Which is so true, so true... <br /><br />Two things: one, it made me think about what I treasure... Lately I have noticed how much I hold on to "things" - like nostalgic things - doesn't matter if it's in the attic, I know that it's there if I need it. But why? I don't really know - I just know that I have been letting go of "things" lately - and it is freeing.<br /><br />Two, isn't that quote kind of like God sees us? Even when we think we have trashed a relationship in our life, when we messed up in that area AGAIN, when we fail to overcome, don't we sometimes feel like trash? What about when you feel that you aren't "good enough" for that one person to invest in, you don't have anything to offer because really, what is so special about you? But you know what? God sees us and treats us as a treasure!!! Because HE is in us, we are valuable!!! 2 Corinthians 4:7 says, But we have this <span style="font-weight:bold;">treasure</span> in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. <br /><br />We are never NOT ENOUGH for Him to LOVE US unconditionally. Isn't that so nice to know? Ok, better get back to the garage sale on a rainy day... Enjoy your Friday! :-)uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-14896725528895058972010-04-18T22:14:00.004-04:002010-04-18T22:21:23.412-04:00god's hand...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdelEfMJTAibPKl5lomNPxO71KXv1Tmwb8bFahVAMzO_9qRwmJ2xOJ49h6vcqhF8vR8pQHUj3yY-VtQdIU__7j7zYl2xLfZuCyD_OcgSlh7vMx7QbVouflTvovmo3ogFzD1uOU/s1600/IMG_0186.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdelEfMJTAibPKl5lomNPxO71KXv1Tmwb8bFahVAMzO_9qRwmJ2xOJ49h6vcqhF8vR8pQHUj3yY-VtQdIU__7j7zYl2xLfZuCyD_OcgSlh7vMx7QbVouflTvovmo3ogFzD1uOU/s400/IMG_0186.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461667742033772802" /></a><br />sometimes kids say the *sweetest* things...<br /><br />like a few nights ago, riley and i were doing the good night ritual (which is usually reserved only for daddy), and he was giving me descriptions of how much he loved each of us in the family...<br /><br />so, i thought, ah-ha, i'm going to one up him and so i said, quite proud of myself, "riley, i love you to infinity and beyond." i turned to him and smiled so big...<br /><br />then, he said...<br /><br />"well, mom, I love you all the way to GOD's hand."<br /><br />enough said... that was a god wink that i wasn't expecting, but oh, how i will think of it over and over and over again. to have the faith like a child...uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-1349768872817011202010-04-15T19:46:00.003-04:002010-04-15T19:54:16.318-04:00*TEXT*ing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWG1q3SxzK4ypQqHCAJ3DSPmkZ7R91fkp4SEH-ZAKu5QfovRurgmDqBLARR-rkTaaDlrRPXtQhkqWs2YLpbNf62EinzRhv7izi1mUXzcub1B3wQBICAI65FersukBGfU569uL/s1600/base_media2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 220px; height: 220px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWG1q3SxzK4ypQqHCAJ3DSPmkZ7R91fkp4SEH-ZAKu5QfovRurgmDqBLARR-rkTaaDlrRPXtQhkqWs2YLpbNf62EinzRhv7izi1mUXzcub1B3wQBICAI65FersukBGfU569uL/s400/base_media2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460516576958505138" /></a><br />Well, sadly enough we had to have the air conditioner guy come over and do a freon check on the AC. Happens every year - of course on the hottest day of the spring! Anyway, he was this nice man from Zimbabwe - and had the neatest accent... So, I admit, I was making conversation just to hear him talk!!! ha!<br /><br />However, he said something that has stuck with me. He had asked me a question and in order to answer that question, I needed to talk to Jason. I knew he was in a meeting, but I tried him anyway. Voicemail. So, I said, "Well, let me try and text him, sometimes he is able to check those even in his meetings." Lovely accent man replied, "Oh, man, why is everyone texting so much? I guess, though, in this situation, it really is beneficial... however, you know what makes me so sad?<br /><br />It's when people text and drive. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Seriously? <span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>Is anything that important that they can't wait? Putting their life in danger is one thing, but putting <span style="font-weight:bold;">MINE</span> in danger for a silly text is another."<br /><br />How true is that??? I remember promising my mom that I would NOT text and drive and I have kept that promise - HOWEVER, I admit that I do sometimes start texting at a stop light before I even come to a complete stop. Now, really. Is it that important?<br /><br />SERIOUSLY?uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-90854799433282744692010-04-14T12:13:00.002-04:002010-04-14T12:53:36.705-04:00*aNEWday*<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTzLCP9aVH52Snqd1qgsGqYlpX7PvAobrf-TDJDaxAP5gYVVFsfj4m0AND0F7gQCbxNxBR_GA8nsImr9s1-qBxFbqL7PaqezqpYtk5lurcQTdSrstPXKBkY_znEr_GqeK-wur/s1600/IMG_0184.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTzLCP9aVH52Snqd1qgsGqYlpX7PvAobrf-TDJDaxAP5gYVVFsfj4m0AND0F7gQCbxNxBR_GA8nsImr9s1-qBxFbqL7PaqezqpYtk5lurcQTdSrstPXKBkY_znEr_GqeK-wur/s400/IMG_0184.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460035680439785218" /></a><br />Howdy all blog readers - all two of you :-). I have been very lazy at blogging for a few reasons, 1. my computer and blogspot seem to have a problem getting along and 2. it has been so long since i posted that it was overwhelming to try and capture it all...<br /><br />So, I'm going to give a quick update and go from there!!!<br /><br />Riley is still enjoying kindergarten - we have our spring carnival on friday and he is super excited about it. As are Jason and I - we get to work at the popcorn machine. We seriously think that is FUN!<br /><br />Reed is doing well too - sleeping without a diaper is his biggest achievement right now. He is still mimicking everything his big brother does - which is so stinkin' cute to us, but a little bit annoying to Riley!<br /><br />Jason is now working on a jobsite in Pheonix, Arizona and has started his schedule of traveling every two weeks. Last week was quite an adjustment back to that type of lifestyle but I'm sure we will get it down pat. We are THANKFUL, so THANKFUL for this job - regardless of it being far from home.<br /><br />I am still working with Giggles and Co, but trying to do as little of work as possible - ha! - just trying to figure out if we should continue with it or be done with it. We shall see!!! However, I did start reading again (ok, for those of you who know me well, just sit down and take deep breaths...ha! I just finished an amazing book by Beth Moore called, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/So-Long-Insecurity-Youve-Friend/dp/1414334729">So Long Insecurity</a>, and WOW, such a good read - even if you don't battle much with insecurity (however, beware, I don't think ANY of us are insecureless, even if you THINK you are). One of the scriptures that she asks us to memorize I wanted to share with you...<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Proverbs 31: She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.<span style="font-weight:bold;"></span></span><br /><br />The thing is that we have this REGARDLESS - it's just hard to remember it on a daily basis and CHOOSE to BELIEVE it... You know how a few posts ago I talked about LOVE and how I was really being worked on in that area - well, now, I am searching to understand what it means to TRULY BELIEVE - and in this journey, I had a cool picture today of what I think it means to be abiding in Christ...<br /><br />Hang with me here - We have an old TV in our garage and it usually stays on some sports channel, but today, for some reason, it was off. I was helping Reed get in the car and I glanced over at the TV and saw my reflection unexpectedly... well, I have been trying to get some extra weight off and I haven't been glancing at myself in the mirror lately because to be honest, I didn't want to see how that little love handle looked clinging to my knit shirt... but, out of the blue, I saw my reflection for what i truly was. Immediately, I thought, Melanie, how often do I really take the time to look at my relationship with God - I mean <span style="font-weight:bold;">really</span> look. It's so much easier to not even take the time to care than it is to look and see what needs to change, especially those silly priorities that seem to just get all out of whack. God wants us to look in the mirror and allow HIM to show us what parts need to be pruned away or tweaked a bit - but we can only do that if we know who He is. And to know Him, means to talk to him, means to read his Word, means to study more of Jesus' character here on earth, means figuring out what "loving on the poor" means for you (so in essence, abiding!). So, for me, being able to really take what Beth is teaching me to heart - I have to start by BELIEVING that what God says is truth - and in order to do that, I first have to KNOW him... so, gals, let's fall in love with Him all over again!!!<br /><br />oh, and by the way, i was disappointed to STILL see that love handle in the mirror...:-) <br /><br />tell me how YOU are doing!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-45981367631413483292010-02-17T08:03:00.003-05:002010-02-17T08:27:51.959-05:00*happy*birthday*deedee*today is a sweet day for me - today is the day that my sister was born, oh, some 25 or so years ago :o). it's an even more special day for me knowing that she is someone that i truly love and am so grateful for!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9h-fRTCsdNSaBeIcSYReVW1otQ-qEtk9tlzKm_H8WXNNXj1YsiD1un_Oz5PsWsCRUf_8byTtH7cGLYZB9i3SWYDZnggjO5Utl1VSqk-oY8MutIwY5uwXssHsO59hyphenhyphenn3P6rv8/s1600-h/dd_bday2010.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9h-fRTCsdNSaBeIcSYReVW1otQ-qEtk9tlzKm_H8WXNNXj1YsiD1un_Oz5PsWsCRUf_8byTtH7cGLYZB9i3SWYDZnggjO5Utl1VSqk-oY8MutIwY5uwXssHsO59hyphenhyphenn3P6rv8/s400/dd_bday2010.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439202766987959442" /></a><br /><br />Thank you sister, for...<br /><br />*loving me unconditionally<br /><br />*challenging me spiritually<br /><br />*showing me states i have never seen (:o)<br /><br />*hugging on my kids<br /><br />*providing me with 4 sweet nieces<br /><br />*including me in your life<br /><br />i never want to take you for granted. i love you dearly!!!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-72124894158937840332009-09-23T19:58:00.015-04:002009-09-23T22:15:34.516-04:00howdy::sept09<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5aCAuOP7DzrF8zky3y7xsG8TX11BJYD5xTeTSjMr9OWaQjfDYBf2qQ_oU9CZxYzVYNjEJ2FLVWw2ErTVGCvKAOqEZBtobCxNaLscRz3TuoSLjeC1bnOkdWpIZ0sQ6bHVAJMs/s1600-h/DSC00604.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5aCAuOP7DzrF8zky3y7xsG8TX11BJYD5xTeTSjMr9OWaQjfDYBf2qQ_oU9CZxYzVYNjEJ2FLVWw2ErTVGCvKAOqEZBtobCxNaLscRz3TuoSLjeC1bnOkdWpIZ0sQ6bHVAJMs/s400/DSC00604.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384816849019369810" /></a><br /><br />hey all! <br /><br />by request of my sista - i am blogging! it has been since the first day of kindergarten, so i guess it is only fair to update you on the status of the uhls home!<br /><br />first of all - riley is doing GREAT in school. his teacher has been quite the blessing to us - and evidently she feels the same about our sweet riley. he came home yesterday with a note attached to him that said "i read a book today all my myself." now, that is progress! he is asking constantly how to spell words and just tonight - he asked if i could use my tracking finger while we were reading before bed. precious! it is still hard for mommy though. i would rather school be every other day for just two hours or so. not saying that next year might hold something different for us, but for now and for this year, our little boy is happy and therefore mom is happy. our prayers are being answered and we trust that god led us to this decision for a reason. we are enjoying seeing this story unfold!<br /><br />reed is doing well too. he is enjoying his time with mommy - well, i think he is! he doesn't ask for riley much - other than when we are going to go and pick him up. he just knows he's at school. his sentences are progressing and he sounds so big! we are even entertaining the idea of a big boy bed. notice i said entertaining!!! :-) that crib is such a nice place to have a time=out, since the stairs don't seem to work for this little one. the bed is nice except, as kristina saw today (sorry you had to witness that!) he gets so upset that he tinkles in the bed. oh gosh, never thought i would have type the word tinkle... is that even spelled right??? reed's new phrases are...<br />::can i, can i???<br />::oh mom, it is so very cold (or so very hot) or so very *whatever*<br />::mom, can i play tennis?<br /><br />he is totally cute - and totally mischievous at the same time. love his HEART!<br />*how do you like the leg warmers? he didn't want to give up these too small pjs, so we cut them off and he likes wearing them - without the leggings - as underwear. just in case you were wondering*<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlKL6JKxQ00nXAgs6JtpuGKdm-VgrI2zTzdhkXRG-uj32TQ5p-W-i6G6I2S8uklclek_iyR0RanTPkTh7fAYbH1VT7ARJRGGUqVTkrAo5RlVlxfvCPYUFjbjuTIkjSoEInjz2L/s1600-h/DSC00606.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlKL6JKxQ00nXAgs6JtpuGKdm-VgrI2zTzdhkXRG-uj32TQ5p-W-i6G6I2S8uklclek_iyR0RanTPkTh7fAYbH1VT7ARJRGGUqVTkrAo5RlVlxfvCPYUFjbjuTIkjSoEInjz2L/s400/DSC00606.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384840773170330706" /></a><br /><br />jason's job in california is drawing to a slow close. he has been there more the past two months that in the last six (well, it just feels that way, i'm sure it's not reality) - just being honest!!! so we are praying about where he will be next and praying for one that isn't quite as stressful - oh YES LORD! :o)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmBDEagp2SBikfet-cniNDXUFQswXJtW7xQfyZtCdbqzk5hcTFrmMYv_6SVWQCljfQV7DpVNcQ81osiG-GY2SzuPvk3k5TJalth1adZafrA7XJTsH_VZHHciCSWhWNxYaNZbk/s1600-h/love.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 311px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmBDEagp2SBikfet-cniNDXUFQswXJtW7xQfyZtCdbqzk5hcTFrmMYv_6SVWQCljfQV7DpVNcQ81osiG-GY2SzuPvk3k5TJalth1adZafrA7XJTsH_VZHHciCSWhWNxYaNZbk/s400/love.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384843917901684370" /></a><br /><br />that's about all that is going on here - it's been rainy, but not too cold. definitely fall weather-ish - and actually, we have enjoyed the rain. it has been cozy on the days that we needed coziness. i've been discovering more and more that GOD is good, girls, GOD is good. a friend of mine challenged me to get up and get in the word for 30 days straight and it would make a difference in my life and OH, MY, she was so right. i have been kind of hermit-ish, well i feel that way at least, but what i did was i dove in to studying the different kinds of loves - <span style="font-style:italic;">eros</span> (groovy kind of love), <span style="font-style:italic;">philos</span> (common interest love, friends, sisterly love) and the best of all, <span style="font-style:italic;">agape</span> (the god kind of love). what i have been so tenderly hearing is that i can easily muster up the common interest love, but it's the <span style="font-weight:bold;">agape</span> love - the unconditional love - that i have a hard time with. and so, i tried to figure out why this was and was drawing a blank. i have always felt loved by my family and my friends. that ah-ha moment was that it's that "I" have to be taken out of the equation. agape isn't the kind of love that i can muster up - it's got to be oozing out of me b/c jesus is IN me. <br /><br />I CANNOT DO IT.<br /><br />as hard as i try...<br /><br />I CANNOT DO IT.<br /><br />my motives have to be truly from HIM - and the only way to get there is to be with HIM daily and to be in the WORD daily. this kind of love is the supernatural outcome of being filled with the spirit (rom 5:5; gal 5:22) <br /><br />i want to ooze with the <span style="font-weight:bold;">agape</span> kind of love.<br /><br />i KNOW that god has been working on me tenderly over the last few months about how to do this with my boys - well, specifically the main boy. why is it that when the hustle and bustle of life comes that we forget to talk to our best friends - and when we do, we end up saying not so nice things? well, perhaps it's just me - but perhaps not. so i am working on being NOT a nag - and more of a safe, uplifting place for my man.<br /><br />but now i am feeling a little nudge on how to love god's somebody (the ones that may not be easy to love). give it up melanie that it <span style="font-weight:bold;">will</span> be work to invest in someone new - give it up melanie that you <span style="font-weight:bold;">will</span> become weary and it will be hard to love on someone not so loveable - just give it up... <br /><br />i'm beginning to understand how to do this kind of love with my family - now, LORD, make it spread to ALL AREAS of my life. give up what <span style="font-weight:bold;">I</span> think and let God do the thinking for me.<br /><br />i will end with a tweet i rec'd today (yes, i joined twitter, but i'm not really sure why. i still don't "get" it but am sure loving getting updates from KLOVE!)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Words are wonderful, but when you walk in love, your commitment must contain much more than just words. (1 John 3:18)</span><br /><br />see, even tweets can be used for encouragement!!! let me know what is going on with each of you all - what are you learning? what is going on in your worlds??? do we need another list of questions to get the ball rolling??? :o)<br /><br />hugs to you all!<br />meluhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-24677908434647502792009-08-12T23:25:00.008-04:002009-08-13T00:23:05.521-04:00K/1*here*we*come<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz18z3MkD9ux7c_xQLjPA3E9z5On236LOe8UnP1B3pxbjFTixmqYlPTqpMSo0iGpkGDuFiXLLU-otUbADj9TTsRahnmkamjgh7r5ZD3O-nq5HKjkclkKZNX7dw07BIUz5xO0ma/s1600-h/school"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz18z3MkD9ux7c_xQLjPA3E9z5On236LOe8UnP1B3pxbjFTixmqYlPTqpMSo0iGpkGDuFiXLLU-otUbADj9TTsRahnmkamjgh7r5ZD3O-nq5HKjkclkKZNX7dw07BIUz5xO0ma/s400/school" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369298357641395826" /></a><br /><br />well, guys, we made it through the first day of kindergarten. now, it wasn't pretty - well, as far as my part goes, but we did make it through...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZUOxebUQoyfqYx4N29bCA3U9J-s01Zk5APKAyEaHIouoh8jrdkUaPwVP9y4URME7xD_rMaVsrxWyhrCqp82MmdjQOjLMzkc5tY_je_8uKRsINP6podn_PXKW7WutXGtYJXjLh/s1600-h/school2"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZUOxebUQoyfqYx4N29bCA3U9J-s01Zk5APKAyEaHIouoh8jrdkUaPwVP9y4URME7xD_rMaVsrxWyhrCqp82MmdjQOjLMzkc5tY_je_8uKRsINP6podn_PXKW7WutXGtYJXjLh/s400/school2" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369298915969181218" /></a><br /><br />i will tell you that i had a lot of lessons today - a lot of thinking time. i am glad that riley is willing, able, and ready to go to school. some kids close to our family just don't have school as an option this semester - and continually today the lord just kept telling me to be thankful in this day, so that is what i have done. so, not really for you all, but for me, i am putting my thoughts down so that when i look back i can remember, vividly, the pictures that were painted for me this day...<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> we live in a country where schools are abundant and where parents can be actively involved in their children's schooling.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> that riley is healthy and we can send him to school.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> that riley is going to be able to be a blessing to others - lord knows he is such a blessing to us...<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> that riley is excited about learning and was able to try and read a book to me - even after just one day...<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> that i can have some time to pour in to our little reed.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> that riley's teacher is a christian and that we have already discussed our faith - and we are complete strangers.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> that a friend told me about mom's in touch and i am going to be able to try to charter a group at our elementary school to pray for the school and the people therein.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> for a husband that has encouraged me to stay at home with our children.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> for our neighbor, mr. jim, who came and sat with reed while i took riley to school and walked him in on his first day.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> for my peeps that continually checked on me today - b/c you know what an emotional case i was!<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> for a dear friend that emailed me to share that my mom had given her words of wisdom when her first child went off to school for the first time...<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> that the lord has chosen us to raise two boys to love him.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> that god is spurring me on to make a fresh start - just as riley is having a new chapter open in his little world.<br /><br />i am <span style="font-style:italic;">thankful</span> for a god that has listened to me all day - calling on him for reassurance that we have done the right thing!<br /><br />AMEN!!!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-11166018836043551352009-03-12T16:01:00.012-04:002009-03-27T21:48:42.366-04:00happyBIRTHDAYS!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3cNfVTEFrbzEvTEhkfMp-YyE4OSibksoCw5aeqD9NRTc9qItuzxv3DZ54TFBK354FIdrqFCOg2yzL488Z92b1HixSO657wCGBlX6m-YTQw4DxgPqAGrKeje9Z4w3wiZx8PDQ1/s1600-h/DSC00195.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3cNfVTEFrbzEvTEhkfMp-YyE4OSibksoCw5aeqD9NRTc9qItuzxv3DZ54TFBK354FIdrqFCOg2yzL488Z92b1HixSO657wCGBlX6m-YTQw4DxgPqAGrKeje9Z4w3wiZx8PDQ1/s400/DSC00195.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318048204282309922" /></a><br /><br />So, I'm a little late in posting that our little boys have both celebrated a birthday!!! Riley is now 5 and Reed just turned 2 (yes, Muri, that is 2 and not 3! hehe!)<br /><br />Man, how time sure does fly! <br /><br />Riley is still attending preschool at the little church down the way (which so reminds me of nursery school at the Baptist church where we grew up!). He still "enjoys" it most of the time - but would rather stay at home most days. We just started t-ball again for the spring and he is enjoying that so much! We can surely see a difference between this year and last year - the attention span is a little bit longer! :-) He LOVES being outside and going on adventures looking for bugs, ducks, frogs, really anything but snakes... we caught 2 the other day and he told me today that he didn't really like them that much! However... to know our Riley is to know that he LOVES Star Wars. We are always "pretending" to be one of the characters and we make up stories that go along with the chosen characters. Normally I am Queen Amadala, he is the "young" Anniken that needs to be trained, and Reed is either C3P0 or R2D2. However, he does also like to be an Ewok; thus what I was greeted with one night after coming home from the Clinic... priceless!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqIFKzoeWFvAfLF6vjbdyooaOJKrxYQx5N6ioH-JOjWkTYUjljU7LcA_c-yvsP-RXv3FSIzV0ug4PeeYzGlfNde2Vj9TBxlIEDusGdjw1zU01_qmbYCuZbpwnV3hCLQ1t43Oi/s1600-h/DSC00155.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPqIFKzoeWFvAfLF6vjbdyooaOJKrxYQx5N6ioH-JOjWkTYUjljU7LcA_c-yvsP-RXv3FSIzV0ug4PeeYzGlfNde2Vj9TBxlIEDusGdjw1zU01_qmbYCuZbpwnV3hCLQ1t43Oi/s400/DSC00155.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318048207145103362" /></a><br /><br /><br /> His birthday present from us this year was Star Wars sheets and man, you would have thought they were GOLD. He loves them! Our Rilester is the sweetest thing - he comes out with some of the sweetest comments to us, especially at bedtime. It is like he winds down and just tells you what's on his mind. We are so thankful for him and for his sweet spirit! Here is is surrounded by his birthday balloons!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJaNX27J_1I39wawvU11JYHoKGdbB_8zlGnLCPXCa50snmogcuROqTGu3E_vfFvwFAi6ai8jkcxLT0CPlxRKs2c1Y0gPvNYw35IHwJBe37qRALVpzi7v9Cmwn5z7p1eMttar2/s1600-h/DSC00040.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJaNX27J_1I39wawvU11JYHoKGdbB_8zlGnLCPXCa50snmogcuROqTGu3E_vfFvwFAi6ai8jkcxLT0CPlxRKs2c1Y0gPvNYw35IHwJBe37qRALVpzi7v9Cmwn5z7p1eMttar2/s400/DSC00040.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312421028394885730" /></a><br /><br />And here is with his cake...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqZWqUj6mQuLOk7iJhvF57yX_NZsvAh2kQ3O5LuUzy9Fmec0BAkuBVmEKeWzoLS15fccDNg0sd0YNJNg0jPNK2r7cvJEmNDQdAZJGcjV0qCFzhV-CpuiJvwTBZwSesQvX4UUaD/s1600-h/DSC00056.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqZWqUj6mQuLOk7iJhvF57yX_NZsvAh2kQ3O5LuUzy9Fmec0BAkuBVmEKeWzoLS15fccDNg0sd0YNJNg0jPNK2r7cvJEmNDQdAZJGcjV0qCFzhV-CpuiJvwTBZwSesQvX4UUaD/s400/DSC00056.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312421024073232722" /></a><br /><br />and here he is asleep, the day after birthday festivities - how peaceful!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigALFH-x4tA-JnlksSGwCvGzdBKM92m0qhNtHtdJkhFYjbALTT_CDY7EoIWs4lIqQlMYFQSTMNAfUs_VQsV2v4qPaegTsLlDH2b2XAmhcI62zh5gzfJKXAdTXlX1F7NOb7EvGJ/s1600-h/DSC00127.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigALFH-x4tA-JnlksSGwCvGzdBKM92m0qhNtHtdJkhFYjbALTT_CDY7EoIWs4lIqQlMYFQSTMNAfUs_VQsV2v4qPaegTsLlDH2b2XAmhcI62zh5gzfJKXAdTXlX1F7NOb7EvGJ/s400/DSC00127.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318048219155309122" /></a><br /><br />Reed is in to all kinds of things now -- just the other day he asked what we were going to do today! He imitates anything you ask him to say - and is now listening SO MUCH better. So, on trips to stores he at least doesn't DART away when you are walking in. Phew, mom's, remember that first day when it clicked with the child to actually LISTEN!!! Now, don't get me wrong, it is not always, but I at least know that he CAN do it! HA! His personality is awesome - he is such a ham! He loves to flirt - loves to chase - loves to smile - and loves his blankets (yes, all THREE of them!) We are so blessed to have him in our family and I dare I go so far to say that Riley feels that way too. Yesterday Riley said, "Reed, I love you." And afterwards.... "Hey mom, I think that is the first time I have said that to Reed." Yep, takes a little longer with the guys!!! Here is a sweet picture of our 2 year old. He takes some good pictures on our steps!!! :-)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBP9Ty_eOGq3JnOtFTq4WdOoGu7JnX6AbwzkCvBpYLt-h9uh-EX4uwSpVyuKnhq8Mf_wgy-f70ZU5Fp_smaPjz84alhHbf7Rf8-0j1_oFN7qFXHed1-eA1BfP0L0GbTBb8u4Z/s1600-h/DSC00012.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHBP9Ty_eOGq3JnOtFTq4WdOoGu7JnX6AbwzkCvBpYLt-h9uh-EX4uwSpVyuKnhq8Mf_wgy-f70ZU5Fp_smaPjz84alhHbf7Rf8-0j1_oFN7qFXHed1-eA1BfP0L0GbTBb8u4Z/s400/DSC00012.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312397789358025890" /></a><br /><br />Eating his birthday cupcakes that were in the formation of a 2!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9w0aSOkvQpDFrVEvXZLgOB1B30bgC_p8BfIGBOfqfosgGn1cKVzc4p8f_wbqV6-RmAqAx1lsMX6PUl945BgVF-3nhyS9rXJzh_4ycLTTXP8uPmMGAWdVtIINpA-xdAG0xl8Ia/s1600-h/DSC00107.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9w0aSOkvQpDFrVEvXZLgOB1B30bgC_p8BfIGBOfqfosgGn1cKVzc4p8f_wbqV6-RmAqAx1lsMX6PUl945BgVF-3nhyS9rXJzh_4ycLTTXP8uPmMGAWdVtIINpA-xdAG0xl8Ia/s400/DSC00107.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312397783804510898" /></a><br /><br />The traditional "jersey" onesie that the boys wear on their birthday!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoju360MICFbByAhTJe_4eKh230YXSNIeMJibIbuwHD4LfKkG2HJUC7Vq57xuzmQnow8feLuvlesbtOFk7Y_X5Jil8nl0-mVwxaxr5RCxwhQCUhXLayNG5uFkjedPybC9mKch/s1600-h/DSC00119.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmoju360MICFbByAhTJe_4eKh230YXSNIeMJibIbuwHD4LfKkG2HJUC7Vq57xuzmQnow8feLuvlesbtOFk7Y_X5Jil8nl0-mVwxaxr5RCxwhQCUhXLayNG5uFkjedPybC9mKch/s400/DSC00119.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312397772810819266" /></a><br /><br />And just a blast from the past picture... that seems so very long ago!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBOZBtHtMvAf8I45aboE-EfQSNTSdkbtNSFTbJmdptCoHOt8vfiEQkdUb3ZUi5fq1MtbyqGaDkn-2La5X-NAFFLQ3aMo_7pXKqrCpPoJO2B4tXePMTwrsp4PwZG095bk-2upI4/s1600-h/1770.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 215px; height: 161px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBOZBtHtMvAf8I45aboE-EfQSNTSdkbtNSFTbJmdptCoHOt8vfiEQkdUb3ZUi5fq1MtbyqGaDkn-2La5X-NAFFLQ3aMo_7pXKqrCpPoJO2B4tXePMTwrsp4PwZG095bk-2upI4/s400/1770.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312642933083963378" /></a><br /><br />We got a FUN package from Idaho for the boy's birthdays and I wanted to share the pictures!!! The theme was artsy things - the package was AWESOME, including three different pain ts, markers, paper, a dry erase board, etc. It was so fun to open. Thank you girlies!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEoM5zI-T7F2avgdMZHL5gco4RR3nqSVAYQl560x3y3AMC3TvyrR5n4ILaMuBkDqYOlYRqsZhRKXDYo2Q1kyi4xFrTwG8TnZKkALq_pDLNCnNs8WJ_kY8yhyphenhyphenL9qNh2CwpNdcF/s1600-h/DSC00172.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEoM5zI-T7F2avgdMZHL5gco4RR3nqSVAYQl560x3y3AMC3TvyrR5n4ILaMuBkDqYOlYRqsZhRKXDYo2Q1kyi4xFrTwG8TnZKkALq_pDLNCnNs8WJ_kY8yhyphenhyphenL9qNh2CwpNdcF/s400/DSC00172.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312394762827483010" /></a><br /><br />Check out the cards to Riley - soooo sweet!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYj5XgaU0bbcOjH8Bk1i_CaI6sUV5yRyhb9HqF4MUS3YTAAsSlMRb8ivOkcL833J_jaSM5EIWQB3ujECbe1ehG7Q9zvGZMvYb13wCMHqPHytcwnZMT_FaCec3sc-1HcM4giCr/s1600-h/DSC00180.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYj5XgaU0bbcOjH8Bk1i_CaI6sUV5yRyhb9HqF4MUS3YTAAsSlMRb8ivOkcL833J_jaSM5EIWQB3ujECbe1ehG7Q9zvGZMvYb13wCMHqPHytcwnZMT_FaCec3sc-1HcM4giCr/s400/DSC00180.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312394443684833170" /></a><br /><br />We are soooo glad that the girlies are going to be a quick ONE flight away... long weekends HERE WE COME! Today Reed asked if we could go and see SaraKate and Riley chimed in and said, "Yeah, I miss them, let's just go!!!" Ready DD?uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-24879345951699762782009-02-18T06:51:00.006-05:002009-02-18T07:24:59.345-05:00happy*BIRTHDAY*dd!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3PthlYowI5pLcY4_tLUq0DhtX2YvAHB99LIpoQPeJ5RP4CAuh4T3430iT1tqveuneKsVmgl6xy5wzLVGIsnQxc5lajNtQk5gnc0FTcWkp5MLjlkRW9FE9MSBIYR21nwp2jgtX/s1600-h/dd_bday2009x.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 335px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3PthlYowI5pLcY4_tLUq0DhtX2YvAHB99LIpoQPeJ5RP4CAuh4T3430iT1tqveuneKsVmgl6xy5wzLVGIsnQxc5lajNtQk5gnc0FTcWkp5MLjlkRW9FE9MSBIYR21nwp2jgtX/s400/dd_bday2009x.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304109018389067554" /></a><br /><br />as some of you know, my sister celebrated her birthday yesterday!!! it seems that as we get older, the hype around birthdays dwindles and it just feels like another day... at least the last few birthdays of mine have seemed to just pass by... no trips to mcdonalds for a birthday cake - no going to the skating rink and skating until your hair is wet. not that we WANT that type of celebration, but it's just not the same! <br /><br />so, i'd like to fill you in on what it's like to have a sister that you dearly love! from the get go i can remember just being in awe of my sister. seriously. if you have ever seen pictures of us when we were young you would know why. she was the prettiest thing you have ever seen! her hair was this beautiful blonde color and mom would curl it sometimes (with sponge curlers that you had to sleep in!) and it would look just perfect. i can remember begging her over and over again if i could just come and sleep in her room on the FLOOR! (now, why would i want to do that when i had a perfectly good bed in my own bedroom???) she was just that cool to me - OH, remember the fun tea parties on the back porch on Meadowlawn? That was fun - was it ok to just wear underwear outside then?<br /><br />i can remember sharing clothes - and in all we didn't have that many fights about them! i remember styling our hair (especially our BANGS) in that bathroom on Greenwood Drive every morning before school. i remember how we came up with the cool idea to lace a ribbon in the knee hole of one of our favorite pairs of jeans - and of course the ribbon would match our outfit!!! i remember going to numerous basketball games and never once (well, once, when i was sick with strep) did i NOT want to be there. she was good, i tell you, good!!! i remember saying goodbye when she went to college and being so sad because she wasn't going to be around anymore and i knew things would change...<br /><br />well, little did she know that baby sister was going to follow her to college!!! ha! you know, now that i think about it, i bet that wasn't so cool - to have me follow her there. never ONCE did she show me or tell me that it was silly for me to do that. she welcomed me and even talked me in to rushing the same sorority. all this even while she was still on campus. now, how many sisters do you know, 2 years apart, that would welcome that??? well, she did...<br /><br />and to this day, there is no one that i would rather have for a next door neighbor. she does love me (and now my kids) unconditionally. <span style="font-weight:bold;">she is the sister that all girls would like to have</span>. she loves <span style="font-weight:bold;">largely</span> and lately, she has become more "cool" as she strives to be the mom, wife, daughter, sister, friend that god wants her to be. we were raised in church and we do have a solid biblical background; however, there comes a time when you learn to <span style="font-weight:bold;">truly</span> listen to god.<span style="font-weight:bold;"> that ladies, is what it is all about.</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />so, sister of mine... i love you dearly... and i am so glad that you were born... in our family... first.</span><br /><br />ps. that picture is not of us, but it's pretty cute, eh?uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-54835674159536113332009-01-24T21:55:00.007-05:002009-01-24T22:45:57.529-05:00Hey guys! I just had to post because two of the boys, Jason and Riley, are at at Monster Truck tractor show and I just think it's funny! Jason just sent me this picture!!! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikVHywLRL6EyeTdKSFohrrusWNkVkBsTBw4jazyQG9AhyphenhyphenrQaG_3HidmbQ0sFlVHXP9xwO2HBPIkiGyw52DEc-h4g2u5BcC7eQ1a29TnwqVmDPlYgH-jIor-ij5y58K-FDj89NM/s1600-h/photo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikVHywLRL6EyeTdKSFohrrusWNkVkBsTBw4jazyQG9AhyphenhyphenrQaG_3HidmbQ0sFlVHXP9xwO2HBPIkiGyw52DEc-h4g2u5BcC7eQ1a29TnwqVmDPlYgH-jIor-ij5y58K-FDj89NM/s400/photo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295059937073709858" /></a><br /><br />Doesn't that just make you laugh??? I love it!<br /><br />While I'm here - we had such a GREAT time in Idaho with DD and the girls. My boys were so SPOILED - over and over and over again. They just LOVE their cousins so very much :-). We took lots of pictures and I posted them on facebook - sure wish there was an easy way to import them here. Well, for all I know, there is an easy way, but I just don't know how to do it. If you do, please leave and note and tell me how!!!<br /><br />Here are a few...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69OVyqDr-BSwGjtvc6ZBqWSMX_3hNh45heYkEwoTcobN1-5XVKFHCi6Dshz28Fnt7io0LT7Ixkw0yO01Xl1Gfmn4_R17U6L7sMTxkTw5Y6d5F4znLMh8DHzAPCGtbs6mz_3C6/s1600-h/DSC01536.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69OVyqDr-BSwGjtvc6ZBqWSMX_3hNh45heYkEwoTcobN1-5XVKFHCi6Dshz28Fnt7io0LT7Ixkw0yO01Xl1Gfmn4_R17U6L7sMTxkTw5Y6d5F4znLMh8DHzAPCGtbs6mz_3C6/s400/DSC01536.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295063697223700114" /></a><br /><br />Reed enjoying stickers on his face!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn27A0Ho5QIkSlXS153z-Z_RkHhI11UlF2nauNHPnADINAdImzQwX7em4xPkTgGKUw5mNsxRwm5Lbj8g4GxhpWFiKKn4ATJaBW604Aj3woXpOpSvgFC7FYU4nr6e2YsHaEfCjH/s1600-h/DSC01541.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn27A0Ho5QIkSlXS153z-Z_RkHhI11UlF2nauNHPnADINAdImzQwX7em4xPkTgGKUw5mNsxRwm5Lbj8g4GxhpWFiKKn4ATJaBW604Aj3woXpOpSvgFC7FYU4nr6e2YsHaEfCjH/s400/DSC01541.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295063686253886210" /></a><br /><br />Sara Kate doing the same! :-)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIHz4SqiyEcEE7eFduAf1hlzHUEEz1FAtL_X4NlRZw0DziO4rXm0hZpjoqE7ypRnehJTGxPDDBfhV5KbCcVi1nVeD5PM3x4uTASAiu6-ePum8rfK61oPkhzUasbYtVyEJfCtnu/s1600-h/DSC01545.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIHz4SqiyEcEE7eFduAf1hlzHUEEz1FAtL_X4NlRZw0DziO4rXm0hZpjoqE7ypRnehJTGxPDDBfhV5KbCcVi1nVeD5PM3x4uTASAiu6-ePum8rfK61oPkhzUasbYtVyEJfCtnu/s400/DSC01545.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295063684833885250" /></a><br /><br />Sara Kate posing in one of the dresses DD and I used to wear - oh yea, we were stylin'!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtlrUcLpZsECbAI51c8rf49gc8vbrzHhHX-xoxGTXsxnDOiqtLxzWoXyiYkcZMS9swx-bmTInUAq_z7_YSXkuYipIGKLAd2n0kDb13RFPgstRYCBCe8GUg1JM3R_TmzwpZO_t5/s1600-h/DSC01527.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtlrUcLpZsECbAI51c8rf49gc8vbrzHhHX-xoxGTXsxnDOiqtLxzWoXyiYkcZMS9swx-bmTInUAq_z7_YSXkuYipIGKLAd2n0kDb13RFPgstRYCBCe8GUg1JM3R_TmzwpZO_t5/s400/DSC01527.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295062849031106578" /></a><br /><br />Sara Kate and Reed longing to get outside in the snow!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhFziQFSRcujMSNLvD0QiQUHPhII2Kh-nOoVotsVVyJ80UQBY1Y2HvmYdd-hD6E4mToT973ZOOSbMYGhJWdTybM0o2GPpXpOHWab4XXUBrJTXw9YJl8BGJCv8JUYKZVf19YL6G/s1600-h/DSC01503.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhFziQFSRcujMSNLvD0QiQUHPhII2Kh-nOoVotsVVyJ80UQBY1Y2HvmYdd-hD6E4mToT973ZOOSbMYGhJWdTybM0o2GPpXpOHWab4XXUBrJTXw9YJl8BGJCv8JUYKZVf19YL6G/s400/DSC01503.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295062844434654466" /></a><br /><br />Anna B and Riley cuddling in the comfy rocking chair!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituM5LySWp0HR_jZWacpdgXL09PPutgYKdjbruC_Wnl1tMkDPjj7BSQUK04dxAUrf36GD7A2bKUur78B7xnknEFcnsVGRyeO0Hv-a8shzM7MrAeVP8VrkkTl8EvGIjJzGkAazU/s1600-h/DSC01491.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituM5LySWp0HR_jZWacpdgXL09PPutgYKdjbruC_Wnl1tMkDPjj7BSQUK04dxAUrf36GD7A2bKUur78B7xnknEFcnsVGRyeO0Hv-a8shzM7MrAeVP8VrkkTl8EvGIjJzGkAazU/s400/DSC01491.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295062842271761890" /></a><br /><br />The clan watching Tinkerbell, was it??? Oh, and check out that Leigha... for those of you that haven't seen her, she is knock out gorgeous - and her sweet presence is the best. Now, I'm sure she shows some attitude at times, but man, she is such a good buddy to have!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplE23hWB9LWNrbxyfxBF23V_7wr48nccL76b3Ntdqdl0_p0ZLiGGVWfSO9WU7Lu-XyeBLYaS4W9uxob46ATrwwPFZyCmWPIgko9YZLcIpaoMMPv_t6h5DexU9_B8eQhMEgGB5/s1600-h/DSC01532.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplE23hWB9LWNrbxyfxBF23V_7wr48nccL76b3Ntdqdl0_p0ZLiGGVWfSO9WU7Lu-XyeBLYaS4W9uxob46ATrwwPFZyCmWPIgko9YZLcIpaoMMPv_t6h5DexU9_B8eQhMEgGB5/s400/DSC01532.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295069738017512354" /></a><br /><br />And we will end the pictures on a sweet one - we found them this way in the back living room. Riley was "reading" Sara Kate a book!!! Priceless!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtVjf9qyEWN5i-8cpl1FKrPboH-gBRp6mTJHCXc-Lo_D57BP6veDlSqrdiuK36sjCzzpUrDO-LhWQivqglZJON9QE_MA0oB38VswHPQJdIo2Iv4W-jCWvDrF-qqoE2GN2RqlW/s1600-h/lannie.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOtVjf9qyEWN5i-8cpl1FKrPboH-gBRp6mTJHCXc-Lo_D57BP6veDlSqrdiuK36sjCzzpUrDO-LhWQivqglZJON9QE_MA0oB38VswHPQJdIo2Iv4W-jCWvDrF-qqoE2GN2RqlW/s400/lannie.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295072056331660642" /></a><br /><br />I also wanted to ask you all to pray for a sweet family in our life group. The mother of one of our members has been through the treatment for ovarian cancer recently - had a clean bill of health and was trucking right along... until around Christmas. She was having trouble with her bowels and was admitted to the hospital. While there, they removed a large section of her colon and her omentum. Both came back from pathology as cancerous. The doctors have asked her to concentrate on just getting better from the surgery and that they would talk treatment plans after that. So, that is what they have been doing. Yesterday, however, she began getting very nauseous and she started throwing up. She is now at the ER and they are going to admit her because they could not determine what was causing the nauseousness. So, please lift up <span style="font-weight:bold;">Lannie</span> in your prayers - she is facing an uphill battle and is very discouraged and wondering if she will ever feel normal again. I KNOW that you all prayed for Ruth while she was in Austria, so I'm asking the same for Lannie. Thanks to you prayer warriors. It sure does make a difference!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-2916182054263260022009-01-07T19:19:00.002-05:002009-01-08T13:21:28.656-05:00Hello all! As most of you know we are in IDAHO! :-) We are having a good time - and we do have some nice snow! We haven't played much in it because the wind is so cold! I promised to post some video of Reed and Sara Kate because their interactions are so sweet. So... here is a clip!<br /><br />Well, as hard as I tried, I could not get the video to work... so here are a few pictures!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5BdnwkHUWysjkTUzTAV_Foh70sIWpw7VmG0XHvqCYdO0qU-hiCsGEHx6cEQJVnIwRtF1n8_TIS1lGRZYOs9nT1vD-6FFudnnPj7IpHQiLcu9D4krU7AMkZU37Vdktp2vqFt1m/s1600-h/DSC01503.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5BdnwkHUWysjkTUzTAV_Foh70sIWpw7VmG0XHvqCYdO0qU-hiCsGEHx6cEQJVnIwRtF1n8_TIS1lGRZYOs9nT1vD-6FFudnnPj7IpHQiLcu9D4krU7AMkZU37Vdktp2vqFt1m/s400/DSC01503.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288989515344836114" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXEiqXlSD5x0omrbTKypXyTlIsNfdgMmDCO4MwiPlREnJEwrjyd9ifE63nNLLRpw5cqeRGIf45h2OJ_ZiRglJyPHB57mDPUiKN_bIfkCDMwQ5VmKHldczRP8s4BfR_vsUVnKi/s1600-h/DSC01472.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXEiqXlSD5x0omrbTKypXyTlIsNfdgMmDCO4MwiPlREnJEwrjyd9ifE63nNLLRpw5cqeRGIf45h2OJ_ZiRglJyPHB57mDPUiKN_bIfkCDMwQ5VmKHldczRP8s4BfR_vsUVnKi/s400/DSC01472.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288989507577198018" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkzCnAZbEGl1o3eg_dSUalchyg8b6i84kiiycKHC8XV4r-abtbQMOOsJeBkRBV3hedK2DEQApDqrJAOOJ-QHBdsPW2TF4diZeDO1Ak3MZq2xsRcDhGea8GIY2neAYG2xD37XP/s1600-h/DSC01425.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkzCnAZbEGl1o3eg_dSUalchyg8b6i84kiiycKHC8XV4r-abtbQMOOsJeBkRBV3hedK2DEQApDqrJAOOJ-QHBdsPW2TF4diZeDO1Ak3MZq2xsRcDhGea8GIY2neAYG2xD37XP/s400/DSC01425.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288989504723660770" /></a>uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-35043587399607918082008-12-07T04:20:00.007-05:002008-12-07T04:44:44.502-05:00hellooooo!hello all! it has been quite a bit since i posted last!!! i've been busy reading my sister's blog though - if you haven't read it... do! it's so good! she has been listing all the things that she and her family are thankful for - beginning with the letter A and going through the alphabet! pretty stinkin cool! Click to the left over there and sit down for a spell to read!!!<br /><br />we have been doing well. jason is still working on that job in sacramento - man, it's a doozie. that's all i want to say about that. riley is enjoying school - his favorite part of the day is playing outside. what else??? :-) reed is growing like a weed and soooo trying to put a complete sentence together. he talks and talks and talks and looks at you like you should understand what he is saying. if i don't understand, i look at riley and he seems to always have the correct interpretation. can someone explain that to me??? :-) priceless!!!<br /><br />wanted to share a few pictures... the first is a sweet, sweet picture that we took of the boys walking down to the creek. we are longing for a warm enough day to go on an adventure!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYdqmjviFjMYc0kyLc1gEX2eVxqDWBaPHgdbs92ijxbjKH-B5mJYd5Zx4eyHQQNx7yApBNSwPOi-hdoWmV6GsVzOw3xOMSChreC12SCUDrSNvcOemTrDp5cgweMOyxhVz2QpB/s1600-h/the+boys"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYdqmjviFjMYc0kyLc1gEX2eVxqDWBaPHgdbs92ijxbjKH-B5mJYd5Zx4eyHQQNx7yApBNSwPOi-hdoWmV6GsVzOw3xOMSChreC12SCUDrSNvcOemTrDp5cgweMOyxhVz2QpB/s400/the+boys" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276976235456690290" /></a><br /><br />uncle steve - do you recognize that jersey? it's one you bought for riley when he was reed's age! precious!<br /><br />this other picture is of riley's FIRST drawing of a stick person. he is just now ENJOYING to sit down and color/write/draw. before he just wanted to cut, cut, cut!!! this was a drawing of his cousin, anna brooke. sorry anna b, you never got it b/c he colored it with a very dark sharpee and you couldn't see the drawing anymore :-(. i was so sad!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjexsBSOib6OhaPbKZyCcwvZ7SQoEAvooUzezeYX6OpxqIF47QaqSP_FBYrkT0okiDhzvckNjpDU53DV7E8H05lhF1WDFo3VHJ1S15PdFs-PY18Y18eSdOm9xgQFhv6ix3Qu_nZ/s1600-h/first+stick+person"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjexsBSOib6OhaPbKZyCcwvZ7SQoEAvooUzezeYX6OpxqIF47QaqSP_FBYrkT0okiDhzvckNjpDU53DV7E8H05lhF1WDFo3VHJ1S15PdFs-PY18Y18eSdOm9xgQFhv6ix3Qu_nZ/s400/first+stick+person" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276978210509841570" /></a><br /><br />that's about it from here. we had a good thanksgiving and we have so very much to be thankful for. i don't know about you all, but we are being bombarded in every direction about how americans (most of us) are so focused on material things. is there a reason that i have about 20 pairs of shoes in my closet? why do the boys have so many toys that we just don't know where to put them all? it's a bit ridiculous, so, we're going to be re-evaluating the way we do things - even a small change would make my heart feel so much better. i pray that god is tugging on your heart - there are so many out there that need a little bit of jesus and perhaps if we aren't trapped by our "things" we could be a better voice...<br /><br />love you guys!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-45441047229003627622008-11-13T14:12:00.011-05:002008-11-22T22:43:13.865-05:00many[many]thanks!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcayvLH-nikAkJHZSHQeUOZ15RldOjoTPgjPdz4K8PFs1s2Fz8moW3TH81YY_HhepvnNXXgNh7WcTgdMAtbkAu-Y0P_CFejeNFJn7Uj2wh43TkLoonpVi-bgg6EkCGdwGHAZdP/s1600-h/s772655129_1539586_960.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 97px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcayvLH-nikAkJHZSHQeUOZ15RldOjoTPgjPdz4K8PFs1s2Fz8moW3TH81YY_HhepvnNXXgNh7WcTgdMAtbkAu-Y0P_CFejeNFJn7Uj2wh43TkLoonpVi-bgg6EkCGdwGHAZdP/s400/s772655129_1539586_960.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271691990715339986" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilV1wB6sMzgd0uXUEVSmrbCH2JWrUC5KcLT21LZcGEKroxxtVyV5nyJ1_DeFQvklB0or0iFFfKjjLg-GNOAgH4DfxGqhnDQGhDRZj6ULZMgsKgaaHgJdYqCfcqy1SjY_B-HRoi/s1600-h/s772655129_1536566_4299.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 97px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilV1wB6sMzgd0uXUEVSmrbCH2JWrUC5KcLT21LZcGEKroxxtVyV5nyJ1_DeFQvklB0or0iFFfKjjLg-GNOAgH4DfxGqhnDQGhDRZj6ULZMgsKgaaHgJdYqCfcqy1SjY_B-HRoi/s400/s772655129_1536566_4299.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271691831473022674" /></a><br />Our sweet friend Ruth made it safely back from Austria and had such a marvelous, marvelous time. Thank you so much for remembering her and praying for her. The stories that she has had a chance to tell have been so, so sweet and have made me think a lot about what God has been talking to me and our family about... so, I thought I would share two of her favorite stories. Ruth, please correct me if I misrepresent anything!!!<br /><br />Story [#1] - They had a lot of "share" time on the trip - as there were people from all over the world there at Haus Edelweiss. One lady told them of a time last year at the school where she walked passed a room where a man was singing a hymn as loud as he could. I don't think it was odd that he was singing as they were about to being a worship time, but that he was all alone and singing at the top of his lungs, for awhile, did make the lady a little curious, and perhaps a little embarrassed for him. UNTIL, later that day she had the chance to talk to him and he explained that it was the FIRST time in his entire life that he could actually sing out loud to his Maker because in his country he would be prosecuted for doing so. MAN!!! Do we have it easy here or what? That just give me chills and HOW SWEET to hear a man singing directly to God - I wish I could have heard that. Don't you know God was saying - a joyful noise - THAT is what I'm talking about!!!<br /><br />Story [#2] - Two foreign ladies (I cannot for the life of me remember what country they were from but I do know that Christianity was FAR from taught there) were on a very long train ride (I think they were traveling a couple countries away) and they happen to pick up a Bible and started to read it. They read and read and read and felt convicted that this Jesus was the real thing. They talked about it and realized that they knew NO ONE that was a Christ follower and therefore didn't know of anyone to talk to about "this Jesus". So, they decided to pray that God would provide that for them in their destination city. A few days passed and God spoke to one of the ladies in a dream and mentioned a street name and a number... Sure enough, they went there and guess what? It was a Christian church at that address. HOWEVER, the even cooler part was that this church, because of prosecution, CHANGED THEIR ADDRESS EVERY DAY!!! How cool is our God???<br /><br />To be honest, I have never felt like I was called for Mission work - never felt led to go to a third world country. However, in order to be able to have a realistic view of how "good" we have it here - and to be able to hear worship songs sung in another's native tongue - and to hear how God is moving mightily in the places where his Name is never spoken - and to be able to teach my children about it - it just may need to happen at some point. I sometimes forget the BIGNESS of God - He is speaking to people in EVERY tribe and in EVERY tongue - not just to the people within my circle of influence. I'm so grateful for that...uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20756577.post-76172494872454554682008-10-28T22:06:00.002-04:002008-10-28T22:15:04.764-04:00*austria*<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KCtW57iS6YfNWxvmzaIpwiDeOhrJplul75KUYodWl3YsCPeRgZurLIEeX-5h45p44IHuUgvq3ZJp0GNJbY8JIH54pmH72f7jLIENT7mPcCayeRchC3DlBsNCDYKK9bMPNXcW/s1600-h/ruth"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KCtW57iS6YfNWxvmzaIpwiDeOhrJplul75KUYodWl3YsCPeRgZurLIEeX-5h45p44IHuUgvq3ZJp0GNJbY8JIH54pmH72f7jLIENT7mPcCayeRchC3DlBsNCDYKK9bMPNXcW/s400/ruth" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262391650153424994" /></a><br /><br />Hello all! Just wanted to ask you for your prayers for our sweet friend, Ruth. She is currently on a mission trip in Austria. She has made it safely there and is on a team that is helping educate ministers that are coming from very far distances to have this opportunity. Just thought more praying for a successful trip for all involved would be great! They will be there until November 9th. Thank you!uhlsfamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03467400295957245213noreply@blogger.com5