The Roseville Hunters

November 2010 - Photo Slideshow

2011-01-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

Enjoy this slideshow that I finally put up from our photo shoot with my good friend, Marta - http://www.martamariephotography.com. These photos were taken in November 2010.

Madeline at OHS Cheer Camp

2011-01-24T12:14:00.000-08:00

Madeline participated in an Oakmont High School Cheer Camp this past Saturday. John teaches at OHS, and teaches many of the cheerleaders who taught Madeline. It was a fun morning!

Hunter Year-in-Review Slideshow

2010-12-24T09:51:00.001-08:00

Hannah & Bradley's Birthday Party

2010-08-27T21:58:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, we had a birthday blowout party for Bradley (turned 3) and Hannah (turned 1). I made a little video full of pictures for those of you who couldn't be there. You were missed!!!

Granddad's Visit

2010-08-06T09:08:00.000-07:00

We had a great time with Granddad (Lauren's Dad) visiting and enjoyed some outdoors activities around our area. The kids could throw rocks into a river all the day long . . . Hope you are having a wonderful summer!

Hannah's Baptism

2010-07-25T22:36:00.000-07:00

This morning, Hannah (11 mos) was baptized at our church, Valley Springs Presbyterian Church. It was very special for our family, as all of our children have been baptized as babies at our church by our pastor, David George.

We view infant baptism as a outward sign of our family's desire to raise our children to know Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. There is nothing magical about the water, it's merely a profession of our faith and covenant with our church family to raise our children to have a relationship with God.

We appreciate very much our church family's support and care for all of our four children over the years through Nursery, Sunday School, and all the wonderful kid's programs. We feel very blessed to be a part of such a wonderful congregation!

Tahoe/Reno Vacation

2010-07-13T20:56:00.000-07:00

We just got home from a nice family vacation to Lake Tahoe/Reno area and visited with Lauren's cousins - Carrie & David and their baby Elliott, Mike & Danielle and their baby Bowie, and Callie. We had a great time and enjoyed both Lake Tahoe and Boca Reservoir. Still catching up on our sleep . . .

You are invited to view laurenh's photo album: Tahoe/Reno Vacation

Jacob's Winning Soccer Goal

2009-11-02T10:39:00.001-08:00

Jacob played a great soccer game over the weekend and scored the first goal of the game, and one of two goals to win the game 2-0 against the Terrors (they were not so terrifying).

Go Sonics!

Summerfest Success!

2009-06-22T10:17:00.001-07:00

Summerfest was a huge success this year, and Jacob, Madeline, and Lauren had a wonderful time! Summerfest is our church's vacation Bible school that runs each June for three evenings. With over 80 activities, 500 volunteers, and 600 children ages 4-14, Summerfest is the biggest outreach event our church puts on each year.

I was able to lead a group of three girls, including Madeline. We were the "Power Girls" and had a blast petting animals, riding the train and ponies, jumping in the bounce house, listening to Bible stories (Thanks Miss Jenny!), doing crafts, and of course, eating popsicles!!!

Jacob was in the "big room" this year, which meant he participated with all the kids together in the big worship room complete with the band and crazy antics happening on stage.

Here's an awesome 3+ minute YouTube video of the event to view: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJgtfmserGk If you pause the video at 3:20 minutes, you see a fireman shooting his hose and Jacob in the background with a Batman-painted face mask on. His buddy Cristiano is the one shooting the hose.

This verse was our theme for Summerfest this year. Our worship pastors wrote a great song that we sang each night and know by heart now:

"Let us run with perserverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith." Hebrews 12:1-2

New House

2009-06-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't have our new address yet, here it is: 27 Madison Court, Roseville, CA 95678. Our phone is still the same 916-772-6026.

I've added some photos of our new home along with some of our new furniture found on Craig's List. I have to admit, I'm nearly a CL junkie, buying and selling stuff in my spare time. It's fun and nice to connect with people this way!

We're settling in nicely and have had lots of family visitors including both sets of grandparents.

Enjoy the slideshow!

http://picasaweb.google.com/lhunterLHPR/NewHouse?feat=directlink

Baby #4 is a . . . .

2009-04-02T21:04:00.000-07:00

We found out yesterday that our fourth child, due in late August, is a GIRL!!! We are all very excited, but Madeline is most excited of us all. She can't wait to be a big sister to a baby girl :-) So the count is 2 boys, 2 girls--we're tied!!!

The baby is healthy and strong and wouldn't stop moving during the ultrasound. She's fiesty!

On another note, we are moving this coming weekend. We are staying in Roseville, just doubling our living space. The house is wonderful, on a court, has lots of trees, in a great neighborhood. We are excited to make it our new home.

This is a quick blog post--I'm still packing boxes, which seems to be a never-ending process!!! More updates later--Madeline's 4th birthday is April 8, so I'll be sure to post some pics of her upcoming princess tea party.

Love,
All of us

The Hunter Family Expands!

2009-02-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

Roseville, CA - February 23, 2009--In a downturn economy when most businesses, nonprofits, and even schools are downsizing, the Hunter Family has chosen to expand their organization to include another valuable asset to our ever-expanding operation. Coming this August, we will be welcoming our fourth baby into our family with much love and joy.

"I'm so grateful to have made it through the first 13 weeks of this pregnancy, as I was sick from morning 'till night; now, I feel wonderful and look forward to feeling the baby move and grow daily," comments Lauren.

Jacob (6 years) hopes for another boy so that "boys can dominate the Hunter Home." Madeline (almost 4 years) really, really wants a girl so that "we can have the same number of girls as boys." Bradley (18 months) doesn't have a preference as long as he has a ball in his hands at all times.

Says husband and father, John, "We are so blessed and are looking forward to the arrival of this new little one. Please pray for this child's health and safety."

For additional thoughts, or comments, please feel free to post comments here on the Roseville Hunters Blog, or by email lauren@laurenhunter.net or by phone, 916-772-6026.

All the Hunters send you love and well wishes.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world." Ephesians 1:3

Awesome Christmas

2008-12-30T21:01:00.000-08:00

Well, we had an awesome Christmas! Santa came and brought some lovely gifts for the kids, we had a beautiful dinner with our friends from church, The Estevez's, then this past weekend, we had Grandma & Grandpa Hunter, Uncle Josh and girlfriend Valerie, and cousins Karen & Jeff all for dinner and another celebration.

We all went to church the next morning, then to Mel's for lunch, then Uncle John and Aunt Joy swung by for a visit on their way back to Bakersfield. It was nonstop, but great to see everyone and catch up!

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T14:06:00.000-08:00

This year, we find ourselves reflecting back on 2008 and counting our many blessings. We are extremely grateful for family and friends and hope this greeting finds you in peace this Christmas season. This year was monumental in small ways; not much changed, but watching our children grow and develop brings great joy, each and every day.

While being the world’s best dad and husband (Lauren’s writing the letter,) John continues to teach history at Oakmont High School in Roseville, and is currently the JV Boys Basketball coach (click on the link to read a few recent articles on John’s team.) This season has been busy thus far and has brought with it challenges as well as rewards. He has a great team and is enjoying a successful preseason. John loves spending time kicking the soccer ball with Jacob, dancing with Madeline, and tickling Bradley.

I enjoy being a mom to Jacob, Madeline, and Bradley most of all, and have also continued doing freelance public relations consulting from home. In July, I launched a blog, http://churchtechtoday.com/ to discuss the use of technology to spread the Gospel and assist churches. This is my market niche, and so it’s been fun entering the blogging world (albeit more work.) I also sing at church from time to time, as well as help out in Jacob’s classroom once a month.

Kindergarten, Soccer, and Legos. Jacob started kindergarten in early August at the quaint rural public school about two miles from our home. We pass cows, goats, and even Shetland ponies on our way to drop him off. He has a wonderful teacher, great friends at school, and seems to love every minute of it. Jacob played on the Roseville Youth Soccer Club team for 6-7 year olds with his good buddy, Alec, and had a fun season. The won a few, lost a few, tied a few, and had a great time in the process. Jacob scored one goal during the season and he said it was “the best day of his life.” J He turned six on November 17. A highlight of turning six has been venturing into the world of small Legos. Now his most favorite toy, Legos are everywhere, on every surface. They are masterful creations of artistic excellence (we’re not biased or anything) that seem to have taken over the house.

Princesses, Barbies, and Taylor Swift. At three and three quarters years old, Madeline loves Disney princess anything, Barbie movies (her favorite is “Barbie in the Twelve Dancing Princesses,”) the color pink, and country musician Taylor Swift. Madeline loves to put on Taylor’s new CD and dance around the living room. She is extremely sweet and loving toward her family and friends, full of energy and personality, and is a real girly girl. We have tea parties daily, play ice cream shop, go for bike rides around the block (we stop about 20 times to pick the yellow “flowers” from neighbors’ yards), and perhaps her favorite thing to do is to help mommy with anything and everything.

Jumping, Throwing, and Outside Fun. Bradley is 16 months old and has his own fun-loving personality. He loves to dance like Madeline, just started jumping (he loves to do seat drops in his crib), throws anything and everything all the time (blocks, trains, food, balls, shoes), and loves to be outside more than anything else. He is full of energy, very snuggly and sweet, and has a killer smile and hug.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace.” – Isaiah 9:6

Fall Family Slideshow

2008-10-27T09:35:00.000-07:00

2008-10-24T21:44:00.001-07:00

Kids had a great evening at the Dry Creek Elementary School Fall Festival; played games, ate cotton candy, won prizes, had faces painted.

Kindergarten's Monkey Crow (with our Daddy's old shoes on). The monkey is their class mascot, FYI.

Had a blast with the kids at the school Fall Festival. Kids fell asleep with glow bracelets around their wrists.

Madeline, Jacob, and classmate Avery in picture.

Now it's off to bed for me!

Madeline Struts Her Stuff at Dance Camp

2008-10-01T13:41:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I took Madeline to her first ever Oakmont High Drillers Dance Camp for little girls. She and her friends Autumn and Faith had a BLAST! They practiced a routine to a Hannah Montana song for THREE HOURS. It was a riot to watch. First, she didin't really know what to do, but by the end, she was a pro! The "big girls" were great at helping all the kids learn the moves. Here's a video near the end of the camp after Madeline felt very confident about her moves :-) She's the cutie in pink and purple. Sorry the video quality is bad, I took it with my phone (digital camera bit the dust). But never fear, I bought a new camera over the weekend!

Betsy is Engaged!!!

2008-09-10T09:58:00.000-07:00

My good friend, Betsy Brandenburg, just got engaged to her sweetie, Brian on Sunday on Saddle Mountain in Oregon (they live in Portland). We are so happy for you both! Betsy has been one of my best friends since we were about 19 years old and in college. She was my maid of honor at my wedding and is dear to me in so many ways.

Besty, we love you and are so excited for you and Brian to begin this new chapter in both of your lives!

Jacob's First Soccer Game

2008-09-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Jacob played his first Roseville Youth Soccer League game this past Saturday for his team, "The Sonics." We were so proud of him! He really chased the ball quite well, listened to his coached, helped his teammates, and even had lots of fun. He's playing on the 6/7 year old team in order to be with his buddy, Alec, so the kids are just a little older than him (he'll be 6 in November). He has practices Thursday and Friday evenings and games on Saturday mornings. It's been a lot of activity to get used to on top of starting kindergarten, but he seems to have boundless energy.

In the video, Jacob wears jersey #17. You might have to watch it a couple of times to see him clearly. I do have better footage, but by the time I retrieve it from the big video camera, he might be playing high school soccer :-) I'll post more as the season goes on.

Just as an aside, the mom screaming at the top of her lungs for "Jacob" in the video is not, in fact, me. There is another Jacob on his team and his mom cheers loud enough for the both of us.

Bradley Turns One!

2008-09-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

Bradley turned one year old on August 23! We had a nice family party here at home, and enjoyed watching Brad eat nearly an entire cupcake on his own and play with his new gifts. It was a nice day/weekend of reflection as we all thought about what a blessing he has been in our lives and how we've made it through the first year of his life. I always get a little choked up thinking about my baby leaving the "baby" stage and becomming a toddler. It always seems to to go way too fast.

Brad has been walking since 11 months, and can now nearly keep up with Jacob and Madeline. The "big kids" love taking care of their little bro and enjoy playing games like "fetch" and "hide the toy" with him. It's wonderful watching everyone grow together and learn to love one another more each day. We are blessed.

Mommy's First Day in Kindergarten

2008-08-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

I had the joy of working in Jacob's kindergarten classroom today. What fun! I was really excited and a tiny bit nervous. I had worked in his preschool classroom the year before last, and that was fun as well.

After my first day, here are just a few of my observations:

1) I should not be allowed to go near the copy machine.

2) Elementary teachers never get to sit down, or eat, or go to the bathroom.

3) Never underestimate the ability your kindergartener has to sit still - they sit still for LONG periods of time in class and do just fine.

4) It's important to remember how to do the hoky poky, search for bugs, and play duck duck goose!

I loved seeing my boy Jacob playing with his friends, listening to his teachers, and doing quite well! Now I'm off to staple some kindergarten coloring booklets together and make playdough in the microwave.

Lastly, hats off to the four kindergarten teachers at Dry Creek Elementary School - they are awesome!!!

2008-08-11T12:29:00.000-07:00

Today was Jacob's first day of Kindergarten at Dry Creek Elementary School. I can't believe this day is finally here. It seems like only yesterday, we welcomed him into the world. You'll be proud of me that I didn't cry too much, but I haven't picked him up yet . . . so there's still a chance that I could loose it.

We are so proud of our Jacob; his is confident, well-adjusted, loving, sweet, but not afraid to stand up for himself. He was so excited today, hardly nervous at all. Meanwhile, my stomach was in knots for the last two days: Will he be alright? Did I pack enough snack? Will he make new friends? Will he like his teacher?

Despite my normal mommy fears, God has reminded me that none of us are out of his control. Jacob actually reminded me this morning that God knew all of us before we were even born, and that He loves us so much and can see everything, everywhere. I guess I was the one that needed the pep talk :-) That's our Jacob.

Atta Boy!

I love the mountains!

2008-08-01T13:57:00.000-07:00

Over the Fourth of July weekend, we took a short family vacation near Lake Tahoe in Genoa, Nevada at David Walley's Resort and Hot Spring. As we drove aroud Lake Tahoe (hoping to swim in the lake) we couldn't find parking, so we stopped and had a picnic at Spooner Lake instead. The kids had a great time chasing lizards, chipmunks, and Blue Jays. We took a mini hike to the lake, getting really dirty along the way (dry dirt trail), but had a fun little lunch even though we didn't get to the big lake (Tahoe) on this trip. Perhaps next time.

At the resort, we swam every day and soaked up the sun. We met cousins Mike and Danielle Henderson for dinner at Old Red's 395 in Carson City and had a good relaxing time.

Jacob's Rainbow

2008-05-19T13:31:00.001-07:00

I've enjoyed seeing Jacob grow to love coloring and drawing pictures in the past year. He didn't always love doing artwork, but now, he takes pride in drawing a beautiful rainbow (see left) or coloring pictures to go along with our daily Bible lesson. He's such a people-pleaser, and loves to make things for everyone.

Currently he's obsessed with making paper airplanes for all his friends, which means we have dozens of paper airplanes all over the house. Who knew paper could be so entertaining? Children are so creative, it often blows me away.

Jacob is preparing to start kindergarten in August, and so we're already getting a bit weepy and thinking back to when he was just a little baby. Wasn't that long ago :-)

Grammy's Visit

2008-05-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

Grammy Henderson (Lauren's Mom) just visited us for the week and left this past Tuesday. We had a great time, unfortunately, we have all gone 20 rounds with the stomach flu. We sent Grammy home a little sick, but she made it. We enjoyed having her visit; the kids loved playing games and just hanging out with their Grammy. We are looking forward to our visit to Texas this July when we'll get to swim in their pool and relax in the Texas sun. (PS--Sorry the video is sideways, I can't figure out how to turn it.)

Madeline Turns 3

2008-05-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

So our darling Madeline turned 3 years old on April 8. We had a lovely little party at a nearby park with Grandma & Grandpa Hunter, Uncle Josh and a few of her friends. Everything had to be pink. Pink table cloths, pink napkins. And yes, so got lots of pink presents. It's always amazing to me how we don't really push girly pink things, yet she inherently wants pink. I think some little girls are just born with pink on the brain.

In this picture, you can see she loves the dress up jewelry she received. She had lots of fun dressing up and playing princess. In addition, we've spent the last month potty training, and she is now diaper-free. Mommy is overjoyed. Our Madeline is like a cat, whereas Jacob is like a dog. Madeline wants you on her terms, when she wishes to snuggle or wants you to color or play. Jacob wants lovin' any old time and prefers constant companionship. I guess that's somewhat stereotypical, but that's just the way it is.

As for Bradley, he's crawling at full-speed. He's 8 months old and can't wait to be a "big kid." His favorite place to crawl is into the big kids' room, up onto Madeline's mattress. He is so happy there and prefers their toys to his "baby" toys. Go figure.

Well, that's just a brief update! Love, All of Us

Bradley @ 6 Months Old Slideshow

2008-03-11T10:59:00.001-07:00

We can hardly believe that Baby Bradley is now 6 months old! He's grown so fast and the time has been flying. He continues to be such a sweet heart. He rarely cries, smiles and coos at anyone and everyone, and loves his big sister and brother. Well, he tolerates Madeline and adores Jacob, to be completely honest. Guess that's about right. We are melding well as a family of five. It's quite chaotic at times, as you would imagine, but all turns out well in the end (that is, when everyone's in bed asleep). I survived a long basketball season with John gone most of the time. Fortunately, his team had a great season this year, so it was fun to haul the kiddos to games and witness the excitement.

I know my updates are few and far between--that's just life! God is faithful and keeps us going, moving, loving, and living for Him each and every day.

Who I am is Good Enough

2007-12-03T13:02:00.000-08:00

I’m an American, and proud to be one. Instilled in me from an early age was the typical American work ethic, you know, “if you don’t at first succeed, try, try again.” Growing up, I was always encouraged to try harder, study more, make fewer mistakes. While a noble pursuit, I’m naturally hard on myself and always working to “out-do” what I previously accomplished. This often caused me to feel as though I would never be good enough, and was never satisfied with a job well done.

That’s when despair and discouragement often creeps in . . . when I’m focused on what “I’m” able to do in and of myself, and not relying on God to lead, guide, and strengthen me along the way. When I’m trying to do my best in my own strength and energy, I will always fall short, always run out of steam, and never be good enough. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23

But when I realize my true identity in Christ and that I was made to glorify Him in all I do, the task at hand seems manageable and I’m able to accomplish something and be satisfied with who I am.

I must avoid putting trust in myself (solely), and remember to put my trust in God: “Do not put your trust in princes, no in a son of man, in whom there is no help . . . for happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God.” Psalm 145:3-6

Who I am (in Christ) IS good enough.

Bradley@Two Weeks Old

2007-10-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

Bradley is two weeks old in these wonderful images taken by our photographer friend, Sharon Cox (www.sharoncoxphotography.com). Click Here to go to our photo page at Winkflash.com. I'm trying this out instead of Shutterfly because they are a much more affordable service.

Now on the cusp of 6 weeks old, Bradley is growing very well and we are all adjusting with grace. Jacob and Madeline still adore their little brother and dote on him daily. He's lucky to make it a day without chocolate or chicken nugget grease on his head due to the plethora of kisses he receives from his siblings throughout the day.

Bradley is a seemingly peaceful baby with NO COLIC! After two babies with major colic, I'm rejoicing that this baby doesn't seem to exhibit any signs. Praise God! Of course, we'd love him all the same, but if you've ever had a child that screamed unconsolably each night for three hours, you'd be glad not to endure this repeatedly with each child.

Well, I hope you enjoy the images! We've loved hearing from friends and family far and wide and always enjoy an email, letter, or call!

With Love, Lauren, John, Jacob, Madeline, and Bradley Hunter

Bradley John Hunter Has Arrived!

2007-08-27T20:10:00.000-07:00

BRADLEY JOHN HUNTER HAS ARRIVED!

We welcomed Bradley into the world on Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 6:31am. He weighed 7 pounds and 6 ounces, and was 20 inches long. He's extremely healthy and doing very well. He was born with wispy red hair, just like his big sis Madeline. With blue eyes and pink skin, he's a looker! Jacob and Madeline have taken to him dearly and already love caressing his head, singing to him, "playing" with him, and snuggling him as much as possible. Truly, Bradley is a joy.

For more pictures, I've uploaded about a dozen photos to Shutterfly here. We hope you enjoy them!

Lovingly,

John, Lauren, Jacob, Madeline, and Bradley Hunter

A Crossroads

2007-07-24T21:11:00.000-07:00

by Lauren Hunter, written 10/23/06

In the dark hours of the night
I won’t give up on you,
Even if there seems to be no light
To penetrate the blue.

When all tears have subsided
And nothing’s left standing in the way,
I will come to you and guide you,
I’m the one who saves the day.

You might think you have the upper hand,
That you know your own next move,
But I am stronger, bigger, wiser—
I can take care of you.

There are greater things at stake here
Than you will ever know.
He tries to hold you back from me,
But I won’t let you go.

You are too precious, sweeter still
To me this very day,
I watch you, want you, know you’re mine
Although you’ve gone astray.

Just one more corner, round the bend,
You’ll see me waiting there.
Yes, I’m the One upon which
You can easily cast your cares.

They may seem like burdens,
Heavy with the wrongs and bad decisions
But try me—I am stronger still
And know that you’ve been given—

A choice. That simple.
A crossroads, some might say.
You’ve been led here for clear reasons
That I might reveal to you someday.

But for now, you must trust me,
Know I have your best interests in mind.
I claim you, now it’s your turn
To put your hand in mine.

You called me, and I listened.
I came and now I’m here.
I love you and I want you,
Now step closer and draw near.

I promise to be faithful
And to always be true.
I am the Rock and Cornerstone,
Solid, through and through.

Though friends will often fail you,
Even family will let you down,
I am the God of comfort,
You were lost, but now you’re found.

Just have a little faith
That I might just know what’s best,
I’ve designed you for my purposes,
Come on, put me to the test.

I will not back down
Or flee in times of need,
I am worth relying on,
Trust me now, you’ll see:

That there is more to this existence
Than what you currently know—
There is a heaven that awaits you
Where only my followers can go.

Although I do look forward
To being with you there someday,
I want to bring you lasting peace,
Right here, right now, today.

So now I’ve posed the question:
Will you accept my plea?
I’m knocking on your door—
You can’t get rid of me.

If not today, tomorrow,
But don’t put me off too long.
I can come close and abide
Once you’ve decided not to be strong.

Because, you see, I need you
To be weak and not too proud.
I need to rule inside you
To take away the shroud.

Of death that is your sentence—
That is the price to pay
If you do not choose me
Before that final day.

Belief in me’s not easy,
Harder, some may say.
But if it’s joy you seek—
I am the Truth, the Life, the Way.

Let me shepherd you,
I want to be your guide.
Together we can conquer all
The obstacles of this life.

And when your days are over,
And you’ve seen the ways I’ve worked,
You will be thankful for all the times
Of difficulty, pain, and hurt.

Your faith, it will be stronger;
Your love, I’ll always cherish
And for this very reason,
I don’t wish for you to perish.

Just call me Lord, Savior, Rabbi,
You know that it is I.
I died for you, for your sins,
Your weaknesses, your doubt, your lies.

You put me here upon the cross
Where all my blood was shed,
And this is where I’m most powerful
To cleanse you and forgive.

I can renew your life
And bring you lasting peace—
Take my hand and let me guide you
Through this sweet release.

Just bow your head,
Confess your heart,
And ask me to come in.
There’s nothing to be frightened of—
Just forgiveness of your sins.

Because, my dear, your now my child,
And I behold your face.
Like a baby, you have become,
Your old life is erased.

And now my Grace has filled you up
And given you new life.
You’re born again, begin again,
To stand up and do right.

I promise I will help you
Every step along the way
I am now your Lord and Shepherd—
You can never go astray.

Feel the joy, the peace, the power—
It changes who you are,
This is what salvation is:
All glory to the Father!
________
When writing this poem, I felt like a conduit for God. Over the course of three nights, He spoke through my words, almost directly on to the page. I couldn’t write fast enough to keep up with the flow of words that He was giving me. I pray that whoever reads this poem is inspired by God’s Amazing Grace that nothing is too big for Him to handle, nothing or no one is beyond His reach. - Lauren

My Beautiful Children

2007-07-24T20:59:00.000-07:00

So I know that everyone brags about their cute kids . . . so that gives me libery to talk about mine, right? These photos were taken in June 2007. Jacob is four and a half; Madeline is 26 months. I am pregnant with our third child, and second boy, due August 23 or sooner.

As parents, we strive to encourage our children to love one another and really cherish the special relationship that they have with each other. Sure, there are times when they squabble and fight over a toy, but we encourage them to work together and forgive one another as Jesus would forgive them.

It's amazing to see how tears can turn into love when Christ works in their hearts to help them love and care for one another.

I am so grateful for these teaching moments when our barriers can be broken down and we realize that love, kindness, and treating each other as we would like to be treated is really the only way.