It's Come to This...

via

In 2011 I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). It's a dirty diagnosis that could mean a vast variety of things with even more variations of symptoms. While there were many things I did not know about this syndrome, I was made aware that it may be the culprit behind our inability to become pregnant. After being told by my doctor that she couldn't do anything more for us other than refer us to an infertility specialist, we opted to get a second opinion.

I did some research and chose the doctor I would see. During this time, we prayed that we'd make the right choice in doctors and that we'd know the right choices thereafter when we'd come upon times to make decisions. God granted us immediate peace the moment I met with my new practice. The nurses were super knowledgeable about my condition, the doctors were wise, compassionate and empathetic. We were immediately put at ease. Blood work was ordered, meds were trial and error, failed attempts, promising signs and cycle monitoring were our lives.

Over time we battled our infertility,  not once, but twice, and fortunately, God gifted us two beautiful miracles. We count ourselves so blessed.

Through it all I couldn't help but question, "why us?" Over the course of the last year that reason has become more and more clear, and tonight will be yet another piece of this journey. My dear friend and I will begin an infertility support group and bible study. I am grateful for the few women who will be joining us and I am hoping that others will follow.

I now see that part of all the heartache, waiting and growth has brought me to this. I am amazed and humbled that God would call me from the ashes of such a difficult time in my life to share the beauty of His goodness and healing with others. I want to share the hope that can only come from Him. I want them to remember that He is bigger than any diagnosis. I want to provide comfort and encouragement to those whose hearts are riddled with questions and fears. I want them to have what I didn't.

Little did I know, even just a couple months ago, that all of that would come to this.

Linking up for Thoughts for Thursday

The One Sign That Your Life Still Has Purpose

Many of us have met the person who questions why he or she is here and questions whether or not their life still has purpose. Maybe this is you. Jobs have been lost, families split apart, blame games played, and tragedies faced. These things and many others can make even a seasoned believer question their reason for existing. 

This can be a dangerous time. Satan can weasel his way in and explode this feelings into gigantic, overwhelming proportions. Some even listen and lose the fight. I've known some who have been on the fine line of choosing to continue on or disappearing. The thing that made the difference for them was hope. God was able to use someone or something to push through the darkness and provide the smallest amount of light...and that little glimmer made all the difference.

As a non-believer, I feel the battle may be that much harder because they have never known the hope that Christ gives. However, for Christians and nonbelievers alike, there is one undeniable sign that our lives still have purpose...

You woke up this morning.

No matter the battle you're facing,  you were chosen to wake up and start new. God's purpose for you has not been completed if you are still breathing. He longs for all of us to know Him and each day He allows us to wake is an opportunity to come and know Him, whether for the first time or in a deeper way.

Often times our problems and negative thoughts lead to a very egocentric mindset. No matter how unintentionally this happpens, it can damage our witness, relationships, self esteem and it can make us question our existence. 

I've learned that I may never know the reasons behind my life and experiences on this side of Heaven. However I do know that we were created to glorify Christ in deed and thanksgiving. So, if nothing else, no matter how dark things seem, remember that if you are still brearhing, if God had you open your eyes today, then this is not meant to be the end of your story.

via

Linking up for Thoughts for Thursday
and
Mommy Moments

We Lost It to the Fire

via

After such a difficult October I was claiming new goodness in November. I need to claim a little harder. With all that's transpired over the last few weeks I've found myself longing for restoration. Restoration with our health, home and relationships.

I've been doing a good bit of soul searching and I've discovered that I also was in need of a refreshed perspective. When life throws difficulties your way, one after the other, it's easy to get bogged down in all the dark matter. I've since chosen to try and view my circumstances from a more heaven-ward perspective.

Case in point.

On Tuesday, my husband picked up the kids from the sitter’s house and took them to see their grandparents. After dropping them off, he returned home and left to go hunting.

I met him at his parents house and after a bit, we headed home. I unloaded the kids and began preparing them for bed. Shortly after he comes in and says, "Kristy, the jeep is on fire!" I told him now was not the time to mess with me as I had two fussy little ones needing sleep. He insisted and I half jokingly told him the jeep had better be on fire if I was coming outside.

Well...it was, or at least had been. Smoke was pouring out and as he shined the flashlight inside, we could see tons of melted plastic, burnt carpet, blackened wires, etc. The fire had been recent but had not continued to burn for the lack of oxygen in the vehicle. I was dumbstruck. We immediately called his dad to the house and upon further inspection,  he determined it was most likely some type of electrical fire. He had driven the jeep earlier in the day but had seen no signs of any trouble.

He called his friend at the local fire department to determine his next course of action. We were advised to file a report with the police department, which we did. We then contacted the insurance company the following morning.

We are currently waiting for the claims adjustor to come and make his assessment. This is certainly one of the worst times for this type of thing to happen. I'm bringing in much less income because of maternity leave, Christmas is coming and several other responsibilities are currently laid before us.

However, her is where the change of perspective has become so important. Just a month ago I would have wallowed in the stress and anxiety that would come from this type of thing. However,  I've chosen to be grateful. I am grateful that my sweet babies and husband were not harmed. I am grateful that we have a rental and his truck if we need it.

I have also been reflecting on His goodness. We cannot do a car payment at this time, which could cause all sorts of anxiety...but...I know He will provide. He has seen us through worse things than this and I am trusting the Lord to do it again.

Things happen. This is life, but when these things happen I believe the biggest battle is maintaining a grateful heart. Think about where your treasures lie. If you truly believe God's ability to provide, heal, control, etc., then while you may fight moments of stress, fear or anxiety, you can ultimately rest in the fact that He will come through for you.

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:19-21

Linking up for Mommy Moments

Weekly Feature

via

I am thrilled to announce that my first weekly feature with Arrows and Warriors has been posted. Heather from A&W shares so much of my heart and it is an honor to join her in this ministry. Yes, I said ministry. The blogging world is a great way to not only share your thoughts and document memories, but it can serve as yet another vessel to carry the Good News and love of Christ. I hope you follow along as we start this new venture. I am honored to serve alongside the other guest bloggers that you'll see here throughout the week. Check it out!!!

Countdown to Halloween Link-up: Finale

via

I blinked and October is gone! I'm glad, that despite the weeks of sickness we've had, that we finally got in some good fall fun before it was all over.

Here are the remaining highlights of our October...

Buckeye Brownies

I was wanting a yummy fall snack that didn't involve pumpkin. I am a fan but it was time for a little something different. Thanks to Kristyn at lil'luna, I now have a new favorite. These brownies are not meant to make your waistline smile, but they will make you happy. I do suggest that you have multiple people to share these with (or not). I bet you can't eat just one!



Trunk or Treat

The church down the road from our house holds a Trunk or Treat each year. It's wonderful to see our friends and watch G play with her buddies.

CBC's Fall Festival

Our church throws a fall festival every year. It is a wonderful way to outreach to our community. G decided she wanted to be Rapunzel, which was fine since N had outgrown his football outfit (she was originally going to be a cheerleader) that I bought him two months ago. It was way too short decide buying it much larger than what I thought I might need. We has a wonderful time with our church family and others in the community. G loaded up on candy...which we will all enjoy lol.

N's face cracks me up as he gets some snuggles from our pastor

Reminiscing

On October 20th, our friends adopted their son. He is perfect in every way and we are so excited to get some snuggle time with him soon!

October 24th marked 3 years since my grandpa's passing. It's always so bittersweet. I am so thankful that he is with Jesus and no longer suffering. However, I know he would adore his great-grandchildren and my heart wishes that he had been able to meet them.

October 25th marked 7 years of marriage.

On October 31st, 2014, we found out that we were expecting baby #2. It was truly a miracle that we will forever be grateful for.

Linking up for Countdown to Halloween Link-up

Baby N: 4 Months

This last month has flown! Our sweet boy is now 4 months old and I'm struggling to wrap my brain around it.

Weight: 14 lbs 15oz

Height: 25 5/8 inches

Clothes:3-6 months across the board. You've even been wearing 6 m pants because you've gotten so long.

Eat: 6oz every 4 hours

Sleep: About 6 hours, then up to eat and it's back to bed for another 2 hours or so.

Play: I wish I could say you now like tummy time...but not so much. You occasionally tease us when you almost roll over. In time. You do however love the exersaucer. You love to make the accessories play music, spin and make noises.

Your laughter is contagious. All of us, including your sister, will do anything to hear that melodious sound. You enjoy music and and dancing is one of your favorite things.

Odds and Ends: This month has been tough. You have had all the signs of teething. No fun. You've also been fighting a cold which has made sleep difficult for all of us.

Despite all of the sickness,  we did get to celebrate a few fall activities. You experienced your first Trunk or Treat and you managed to stay up for the whole Fall Festival at church. You out grew the football costume I had bought you so you just rocked some festive attire. This coming month holds a lot of exciting things and we look forward to sharing them all with you.

Linking up for Mommy Moments

Currently : October

via

I love fall and October is generally my favorite month. Everything about it is wonderful!  This October however has been particularly difficult.

Thinking About: I used to sleep. I don't mean a few hours at a time...I mean all night. Since N's birth, those days of restful, restorative sleep are but a distant memory. This October has been full of sickness in our family. This has greatly contributed to many sleepless nights. For instance, we've experienced the following:
-My diagnosis of octal migraines (yes, my eyes have migraines)
-Teething
-Fevers
-Strep
-Common cold (which is miserable for the babes)

Working On: November's meal menu. I love breaking out the crock pot this time of year.

Learning: It's an ongoing process when it comes to learning how to accept things that are beyond my control. I want to learn how to really slow down and embrace the now instead of constantly feeling like I need to be prepping for the next thing.

Watching: The leaves are turning. It's peak season here and everything is gorgeous. How quickly time flies.

Listening to: G console her baby brother. They both have colds and when he coughs she does what she can to comfort him.

Trying: I'm really trying to get some order back in our home. Between myself and the kids being sick, I've been trying to disinfect but haven't done well to keep things organized.

Loving: I'm loving all the little things. Life goes by far too quickly and every moment we have is a gift.