Just Me

Happy Valentines Day!

2012-02-14T08:00:00.001-07:00

Happy Valentines Day to my Husband!

I love you! I am honored to have your last night and be the mama to your children. I love how you love me. I love that we can laugh together.

I love that you come home to me, that you want to come home to me. I love how hard you work for us, I admire your hard work and I am so blessed by it. I love how we can just relax at the end of the day, on the couch with a back scratch and some TV.

You are a great communicator. You keep me honest. You help me communicate how I am feeling. You have encouraged me to be myself. You accept me. You love me with your kind words.

I feel safe with you. I trust you. I love you. I am excited to raise our kids together. I enjoy being around you. I want to be with you. I love the way you smell. I love the food you cook. I love that kind of dad you are. You are kind, patient, loving, understanding, helpful, funny, creative and wise.

I cannot thank the Lord enough for the kind of husband He gave me when He gave me you. I am so blessed by the kind of dad you are to our kids. Thank you for working so hard and being so understanding. I am honored to be at home during the day with our kids, even if some days are harder than others, it is such a privilege to be able to be their mama and spend so much time with them. Thank you for making that possible!

I love you. I want to spend the rest of my life loving you, I pray that I can continue to love you how you want and need to be loved. Thank you for asking me to marry you. This adventure has been wonderful and I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store this year!

Play Time...

2012-02-13T08:00:00.001-07:00

Caitlyn LOVES the pack'n play....

she kicks her feet and talks and talks and talks...

she adores her toys that her brother hung up for her...

... Isaac picked out all the fun toys from the "Baby Sister toy bin" and strung them across the pack and play with ribbon, it was really cute, he got frustrated because they kept falling off but I helped him tie the ribbon and now the toys are there to stay!

Caitlyn loves to be in the pack and play. It is fun to see her start to play, "talk" and interact with us and her toys.

Valentines

2012-02-12T17:00:00.003-07:00

It was so fun this year... Isaac and his daddy found a box of SpiderMan Valentines! We have spent a little time each night putting them together for his friends from school. It is really fun to watch him write the names of his friends in the place labeled "To" and to write his name in the place labeled "From".

By the way, notice the green cape, that means "Flysaac" has come to the house. Flysaac is Isaac's super hero name, so when the cape appears, so does Flysaac!

Bless his heart, he has worked hard on his valentines. Writing each and every one. Spelling the names of his friends, taping a piece of candy to each one and decorating with a heart shaped sticker!

It has been fun. I am so glad to have these kinds of things to do at our kitchen table. It makes my heart happy!

Brownies for the neighbors

2012-02-08T07:57:00.002-07:00

We now have neighbors, not that we didn't before, but now, we have real neighbors. You know, the type that help you shovel, the type that have kids who want to play with your kids.

So, my son wanted to make them brownies so he could go over and say Hi! It was really cute!

So, we spent some time baking... Isaac did it all, he cracked the eggs, he stirred everything in the bowl and he waited and watched as the baked...

Truth be told, we all ate them before they got to the neighbors! So we are going to make a new batch and not eat them. What can I say, everything that we needed to bake was packed for so long we were all so excited about it, we couldn't help it!

She loves.....

2012-02-06T19:45:00.002-07:00

... the binkie! It took her a few months to get it, but she loves it now! And it is the cutest thing ever! The binkie in the picture is the ONLY one she will take. I love it, it is pink, it is cute and it is totally different than the ones her brother loved. I can't get enough of her beautiful binkie lovin self!

Bath Time - Play Time

2012-02-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

Isaac LOVES bath time - and Caitlyn does too! It is the best part of the night. We put them both in the tub together and they laugh, play, read and "swim" together. Caitlyn loves to be in the water, no tears, just hanging out happily with her big brother.

I know it is not made for this, but the Bumbo chair is a fabulous bath chair! It keeps Caitlyn upright, she can "float" and play with her brother, without getting cold! We love it!

Snow Day!

2012-02-03T09:03:00.008-07:00

My son is so blessed to have a backyard all to himself! He has been praying for Jesus to give him a yard for a while, and man, did Jesus deliver!

Today, the ground is covered in snow, so around 8:30am Isaac got all dressed and ready to go outside!

He dug out his toys that were covered.

He ran around and kicked every ball that was in the yard!

It made his day to play outside first thing in the morning!

He piled the snow in the back of his trucks and drove it from point A to point B, over and over again!

He laid down and rolled over and over!

He came in covered in snow, shivering and happy!

Home...

2012-02-01T21:18:00.003-07:00

We have been packed for a while, two years actually. We started the moving process in 2009, and we have officially MOVED!

The Lord has blessed us with the perfect home. The house is cozy, it is yellow, which happens to be my favorite color. The house is peaceful.

The kids share a room, the play room is full of laughter, movies and toys. The basement is the perfect place for a guys night. The kitchen is by far a favorite of mine, it is open, it is big with lots of windows and space for our table. It is peaceful! It is home!

It has a great porch. The backward is a place for Isaac to run around and be a boy.

Our boxes are unpacked, the pictures are hung and we are settled in. More to come soon!

Christmas at our house..

2011-12-29T14:13:00.010-07:00

Christmas at our house was wonderful! I pray yours was too!

We decorated a tree.

We took lots of naps! Daddy has worked lots and having a new born baby in the house means we sleep as often as we can! Family nap time is restful, peaceful and treasured!

We watched the Bronco game.

We opened presents!

We ate lots of yummy food, counted our blessings and enjoyed eachother!

We played games! Minute to Win It was a part of our annual family triva game. We played board games and word games! We laughed and we loved!

Such a fun time of year to be a mama! Such a fun time of year to be a child of God and see how He provides for us over and over! Such a fun time of year to celebrate!

Her + Him = Them

2011-12-28T08:00:00.001-07:00

Them...

Her...

Him...

Her...

Him...

Her...

Him...

Her...

Him...

Pictures of both kids taken at 3 weeks old, by the same dear friend of mine... precious memories of my sweet kids! I love you Corrie!

Pictures of Him taken on November 10, 2007
Pictures of Her taken on November 9, 2011

Beautiful Girl

2011-12-27T20:43:00.008-07:00

Dear Daughter of Mine -

You are at home in your daddy's arms!

You are beautiful.

I carried you in my womb, your were created by my Lord, and you were healed by Him too.

You sleep when you want to... even if it isn't when I want to.

You are awake and alert and love to watch what is going on around you!

Your smile is breath taking!

You are beautiful my precious girl, just beautiful!

I love you sweet one!

Love, Mama

Pictures taken by CLB Photography.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas!

May your day be blessed and filled with family, laughter, love and Jesus.

Love, Andrew, Mary, Isaac and Caitlyn Vigil

Santa Hats and Frosty

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Nana made Isaac and Caitlyn Santa Hats this year and they are adorable!

I cannot get enough of this sweet girl in her hat! She might just wear it well into the new year it is so stinking cute!

We went to visit Santa this year, it was a stress free trip, lots of fun and the hats were a huge hit!

While we waited in line to see Santa, Isaac saw Frosty the Snow Man. We have been watching lots of Christmas movies this year and so far Isaac's favorite has been Frosty, so we had to have a picture!

Santa picture to come... Stay tuned!

Our Tree in 2011

2011-12-22T11:23:00.005-07:00

Our Christmas stuff is packed away, because we were suppose to be moved by now, but we aren't... yet... we will move soon, just not yet... so, when you have a little boy who loves crafts, you make a tree!

A foam tree, some stickers, some holiday snacks, Strawberry milk, snow outside and mama, makes for a fabulous tree decorating morning!

We had a great time decorating our tree this year!

I am so emotional about it that I will likely keep this tree and put it out every year as a reminder of simple abundance!

For the past two years, we have packed and unpacked and not moved. We have looked at rental house after rental house, we have prayed and we have learned lots. We have lived with less, but not gone without. We have our stuff packed as we wait for the perfect place to be delivered from the Lord. we have laughed, we have rested and we have loved. I have learned less is more, sticky is fun and home is where my family is, not where my stuff is set out for all to see. It has been a blessing!

Our tree has not gone without either, it is simple, yet perfect. It has presents under it and even a train!

Isaac: Also known as Joseph

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Isaac had his Christmas play at school. He played Joseph.

He sang songs and even had a small speaking part in the play... Mama made a video and will hopefully someday post it...

But for now, here is Joseph.

Mama made his costume from a few T-shirts.

He did great!

We went to Chic-Fil-A for Milk Shakes after!

Quiet Time for Two

2011-12-19T08:00:00.003-07:00

These two have quiet time in the playroom together almost every day. It is adorable!

This little boy...

2011-12-18T20:58:00.003-07:00

LOVES to bounce!

We hung out with Papa Roy's family on the Friday after Thanksgiving...

... and Aunt Lorraine rented a bounce house for the kids...

... Isaac LOVED every minute of it...

... I really think this boy might need a trampoline of some sort when we move into a house with a yard... he loves to bounce and it was really fun to watch him and listen to him laugh!

Thank you Lorraine for a fun day!

First Bath - Big Brother Helped

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

My sister came to visit with her daughter one night and she took pictures of the kids. She also took pictures of Caitlyn's first bath, which was fabulous because I had my hands full!

Isaac helped give his sister a bath!

Caitlyn loved the bath, she must take after her brother, because he loves the bath tub too!

Isaac helped me wash her from head to toe!

All was calm until it was time to get out of the water...

Precious girl... all clean and smelling good!

I am so blessed to have pictures of such a fun family memory!

Great Grandparents

2011-11-29T11:00:00.001-07:00

My kids have been blessed with some fabulous Great Grandparents. I have had so much fun watching my Grandparents enjoy my kids...

Papa George and MorMor with Caitlyn

Grandpa Mel and Caitlyn

Mama Pita and Caitlyn

Grandma Postma came to town just before Caitlyn got here. She played trains with Isaac, prayed for Caitlyn and Mama and loved on us all.

A hat... no small thing...

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

This hat is no small thing. I must not loose it. I pray I never have to face that! I cannot misplace it. I cannot give it away and I must never, ever, put my daughter to bed without it.

You see, with this hat on her head (Mind you it is size 12 -18 months) my daughter will sleep 4 hours a night. But without it, she won't sleep more than 2 hours at a time. I must not loose this hat!

Thank you JESUS for this hat! I have no idea where it came from, but please, please, please, bless the people who gave it to me! I LOVE THEM!

30 days, 1 month, Praise Jesus!

2011-11-17T18:29:00.004-07:00

30 days ago we were settling into our room at the hospital. We were getting ready to go to bed, you, me and your daddy! It was a busy day, lots of people came to see you. You were born just after midnight and by 7:00pm we were ready to snuggle in and enjoy you!

Your big brother was the very first person, other than daddy and mama, to hold you. He was so excited! He loved you from the minute he saw you on the screen, at the doctor office.

You slept right next to me, in my bed, I couldn't bare to put you down. I was intoxicated by your sent. I wanted to hold you for as long as I could. I had waited a very long time to see you, kiss you and hold you. And I could not get enough!

In the past 30 days, we have continued to snuggle. We take naps together, I kiss you every chance I get. Ask your big brother, but part of my job as your mama is to smother you with kisses and I have loved doing just that.

You have been blessed by some of the most treasured people. You have been given precious clothes and blankets. People have taken care of your mama, daddy and brother by bringing over food and groceries. The Lord has provided in ways we couldn't have imaged.

Your brother reads stories to you. He sings to you. He kisses you. He LOVES you! You are the most blessed little girl in the world, because you have the BEST big brother!

It has been a wonderful 30 days, 1 month and I can not Praise Jesus enough for the moments we have had as a family. Home cooked meals, afternoon naps, daddy's days off spent relaxing as a family of four. It has been precious. You are precious.

Happy 1 month birthday beautiful, smart, wonderfully made daughter of mine! I love you!

May Jesus bless you beyond measure!

4 Weeks ago...

2011-11-14T09:12:00.003-07:00

4 Weeks ago today I met you for the first time. I heard you cry for the very first time and was over come with joy. I saw you as your daddy held you and I was in love. You are my daughter, the daughter of the One and Only King. You were knit together in your mama's womb, my womb, by the hand of the Creator. You are precious in His sight. You are precious to me.

I love you sweet daughter of mine. I have loved our time together over the past 4 weeks. I cannot believe you have been here for so long already. May you love Jesus with everything you have, may you laugh uncontrollably and may you be blessed beyond measure over and over again.

Thank you Jesus for this gift, thank you for the reminder of who you are. Your promises are true and your word is powerful! I love you! Amen

Picture taken by CLB Photography.

Homework

2011-11-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

We are now spending time at night doing homework.

It isn't much, just a page or two.

But we pick a marker, take a seat at the table and the homework is done.

It adds something to our nightly routine, it is simple, yet fun.

Notice that Isaac wrote his own name at the top of the page, he didn't need help spelling it either!

I am sure a day will come when homework isn't fun for Isaac or Mama, but for now, I enjoy the time together and I have loved watching Isaac learn!

A look back...

2011-11-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Back in September, Isaac spent a few days with Grandpa and Grandma and they did lots of fun things!

One of the coolest things Grandpa does with both Isaac and Mercedes is he takes them to build things at Lowes. Isaac LOVES the things he builds with Grandpa.

They also spent LOTS of time outside, and there is nothing this little boy loves more than to ride bikes and play outside.

This little boy LOVES hanging out with his Grandpa and Grandma. How blessed is he!

Halloween

2011-11-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

This year Isaac went as Spider Man for Halloween. Spider Man has been HUGE in our house, for his birthday he wanted Spider Man toys and a Spider Man costume. And so, Spider Man he was...

We went to Fort Collins to trick or treat with Isaac's cousin Mercedes, you can read her mama's blog by clicking HERE. Mercedes went as Batgirl and later changed her clothes and was a ballerina!

We went trick or treating while it was still light outside, then came in and had some pizza, the kids answered the door for a while and then Aunt Mandy took them out again in the dark!

Grandpa, Grandma, Aunt Carol, Uncle Jim and Aunt Mandy were all there! It was a fun way to trick or treat.

The kids did such a great job ringing the door bell, saying "trick or treat" and "thank you" for the candy. They had a great time, got lots of candy and laughed A LOT!

Halloween just happens to be Mandy's birthday, it was a fun way to get together, spend some time together, watch the kids be kids and celebrate Mandy.

This is what happens...

2011-11-01T16:15:00.002-06:00

... when a little boy wants to play in the snow, but his snow clothes are packed...

... when a little boy's mama lets him play in the snow as is, just a boy, a coat, jeans, tennis shoes and a shovel...

...when mama needs to pee, big brother needs help in the bathroom and baby sister needs to eat...

... when baby sister can't stop crying and big brother, fresh from the bath, sings and sings to his sister to help her calm down...

Needless to say, life with two kids has been so fun over the past 14 days!

What a precious time in life!

More birthday parties!

2011-10-26T08:00:00.001-06:00

Isaac got to celebrate on his birthday when we came home from the hospital. On Thursday, the day after we got home from the hospital, Isaac figured out that his birthday will come after Caitlyn's next year and that didn't settle too well with him. Needless to say, he was a tiny bit upset. However, at dinner, he prayed for our meal and as I said, Amen, Isaac looked at me told me he needed to talk to Jesus about his birthday coming 2nd. So, we continued to pray and Isaac expressed his opinions to Jesus, then said amen and we ate... it was adorable!

On Sunday, Isaac got to celebrate this past weekend with Papa, Nana, Uncle Tim and Aunt Esther.

CRANKY the Crane came to Papa and Nana's house! Isaac was very EXCITED!

A tomato worm also came to Papa and Nana's house. Isaac loved it, mama... not so much!

This little boy has been blessed. It warms my heart to see him celebrate his birthday in the midst of his baby sister's birth!

This year has been the year of Spider Man. Isaac has found the 1967 Collection of Spider Man and his Amazing Friends on the Wii/Netflix and it is regularly watched in our house. So for this birthday, Spider Man, Thomas the Train, Toy Story and Cars were the big hits!

And... money... Isaac has discovered money. We have been filling a peggy bank for Isaac with change and he now has a savings account at our bank... I tell ya, the kid has got a nice chunk of change in his account and he got more money for his birthday.

Yep... I give you Spider Man! Complete with a web shooter for his hand!

I am sure, Spider Man will spend lots of time at our house!

Soccer is also big hit this year, so a real soccer ball was a must. We are looking to sign him up for soccer next year and the boy loves to practice! I am sure we will spend hours outside with his soccer ball and maybe even dressed as Spider Man!

His birthday was blessed. This boy was blessed. His daddy and mama have been blessed!

Happy Birthday sweet boy! You are smart, you love school, you run around every chance to get. You would rather run than walk. You are hyper, your laugh is contagious and your heart is huge! I love to hear you pray. I adore how helpful you are! You are the best big brother Caitlyn could ever have. You adore her. You have been blessed this year, I pray the blessings pour out over the years! Jesus loves you my son! Mama and Daddy do too!

Isaac's 4th Birthday!!!

2011-10-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

The day BEFORE we went to the hospital because mama had gone into labor, Grandpa Marty and Grandma Cheryl had a birthday party for Isaac. It was a lovely Saturday afternoon and we spent time on their back porch with Isaac's Great Grandpa Mel & Grams, Papa George & MorMor, Uncle Jim and Aunt Mandy and his cousin Mercedes.

It was VERY important to Isaac to have a birthday part with his cousin. He LOVES her and they had a great time together. Isaac spent a few days before the party at Grandpa & Grandma's house and they played for hours together!

Isaac and Mercedes laughed as he opened his presents.

Papa George gave Isaac some walkie talkies and he and Mercedes LOVED them!

A back yard birthday party was perfect. The weather was perfect and the birthday boy was in heaven!

It was a great way to celebrate prior to Caitlyn's arrival!

Isaac got to celebrate his birthday 3 times this year! Once before baby sister's arrival, once on his actual birthday and once with his Papa and Nana the weekend after Caitlyn's arrival... more pictures to come!

Blessed

2011-10-24T14:10:00.003-06:00

Caitlyn came in the wee hours of the morning on Monday, October 17, 2011. We knew she was gonna be here before her big brother's birthday on Wednesday, October 19, 2011. So, as a mama, I got creative and made her a very special outfit to wear at the hospital on the 19th.

Little did I know, we would be allowed to come home on the 19th! It was a great surprise for Isaac! Caitlyn was prepared with a little present for her brother, Isaac was surprised with balloons and cupcakes, it was the perfect way to celebrate on his actual birthday!

Not only did we come home on his birthday, Isaac was able to go to school and tell everyone about his little sister! He was very excited!

It was important to me to make sure Isaac's birthday didn't just go by. I know he is 4 and doesn't know the days of the week or the date, but as his mama, it was something that was important and my heart was blessed by how special it made him feel!

A very proud big brother on his birthday with his baby sister!

I couldn't help my self, I had to take a picture of how sweet she looked in the car seat on the way home! Our hospital experience was a huge blessing. The C-Section went great, I was blessed in the most simple and yet powerful ways. We only had to stay 2.5 days in the hospital and I did not experience tremendous pain, I just needed Tylenol and Advil for the pain, isn't He good! Praise HIM!

Blessed beyond measure!

His story... HE is faithful...

2011-10-18T17:37:00.007-06:00

This is my daughter... I have a daughter... this picture was taken just a few minutes after she was born.

You see, her story is a story of HIS faithfulness. I was asked during my first trimester if we, my husband and I, wanted to scrap this pregnancy and start over, as it is unlikely we would carry her full term, due to some growth issues in her and blood/platelet issues within me. I was put on bed rest for the last 2 months and struggled with every physical, emotional and mental aspect of this pregnancy. I clung to my Jesus. I cried out to Him, I cried for Him and I begged Him...

This is my daughters BIG BROTHER. Not only has her birth taught her mama about HIS faithfulness, it has taughter her brother about HIM, Jesus, the REAL ONE who answers prayers.

Isaac has been praying for his baby sister, Caitlyn Starla Blueberry Vigil to grow and be healthy. He prays for her at night and before he goes into school. He has witnessed people praying over his mama and he has witnessed his prayers being answered.

Side Note: Isaac calls her blueberry because in all her pictures from the doctor, she always looked like a blueberry :)

In May, I went away for the weekend, before I knew via medical confirmation that my baby was a girl. I spent most of that time crying and begging the Lord for a healthy baby and for the first time in my life, I had a very private moment with the Lord that I quietly wrote down in my journal and I waited and prayed over...

This is Caitlyn Starla Vigil...

This is Daddy, Mama and Caitlyn just after her arrival via C-Section. Praises Be... Mama got to be awake for the procedure, we were told because of the platlet/blood issues Mama would likely be put to sleep, so this was a HUGE answer to prayer, a precious blessing and a tender moment for Mama...

Caitlyn Starla Vigil was born on Monday, October 17th, 2011 at 12:25am.

She weighed 8 pounds and was 19 inches long.

She has no signs of health or growth issues.

Jesus, I love you, I love your story of faithfulness and I cannot thank you enough for the journey You and I have had for the past several months. I know you more deeply, I love you more passionately, and I trust you in a way I cannot describe. You are who you say you are and I love you! Thank you. Amen

A Day Out with Thomas

2011-10-07T15:51:00.005-06:00

This little boy LOVES trains and he LOVES Thomas the Train! We took him last year to see Thomas in Golden and it was a HUGE hit. So this year, he got to go again...

Isaac and his daddy!

Funny faces are the best!

Papa, Nana and Mama Pita came along and spent the afternoon hanging out with Isaac and Thomas!

Isaac got to meet and hug Sir Topam Hat, which was very special for him.

And of course... the train ride!

A day with Thomas was fun!

One of the new things this year is that Isaac, Daddy and Papa got tattoos together.

Daddy got his on his arm, Papa got one on his hand and Isaac actually left the day with one on each arm...

Welcome to the family, blog, offically...

2011-10-03T16:34:00.004-06:00

This is Esther, and Tim. Tim has loved my sister Esther for a few years now, they recently got married and now, Tim has been officially introduced to the blog. Welcome to the family!

I love that Tim loves Esther, I love how Tim loves Esther. I love that the two of them laugh together. I love that they have their own inside jokes. I love that they are friends and loves.

Frankly, I am rather discouraged. I am very pregnant and have not had the best pregnancy. This weekend, Tim and Isaac played and played and played. As I listened to them play and as I listened to Isaac laugh my heart was blessed.

Tim took these pictures on his phone. I think they are precious!

Isaac calls Tim his Big Big Friend, it is from a new TV show that he is watching about a little boy and his extra large stuffed animal that comes to life and there is even a song that goes with it.
Isaac sings the song all the time and it is precious that he sings it about his Uncle Tim.

"My friend, my big big friend, my good friend, my big big friend, my fun friend, my big big friend I love my big big friend. I can count on my big big friend, always with me, my big big friend, I believe in my big big friend, on you I can depend... My friend, my big big friend, my good friend, my big big friend my fun friend, my big big friend I love my big big friend"

Isaac will be in his play room just singing the song, over and over again, and when I ask him what he is singing, he says he is singing about Tim.

Welcome to the family blog Uncle Tim! We love you! Isaac loves you! Thank you for loving us!

School has started!

2011-09-27T08:00:00.001-06:00

Monday and Wednesday mornings are very special in our house!

Why? Because, this little fella LOVES school.
He goes to school for a few hours every Monday and Wednesday morning!
We took the summer off from pre-school and he went back in August.

He loves his backpack and all the kids in his class.

He was SOOOOOOOOOOOOO excited for the first day of school. I love this time of year as well and love all things back to school and fall.

Every time I drop him off at school, we have a sweet mama and Isaac moment as soon as we get in the door, in the very spot he is standing. When we come in, Isaac always asks for a prayer, so we bend a knee, he sits on my lap and we pray over his day before he runs off to his classroom. It is by far my very favorite part of the school days!

One of the things that is different this year than last year is how excited Isaac gets when I pick him up. He is sooooo excited to tell me everything about his time at school. He shows me his projects and talks all the way home about every aspect of his day!

Best Daddy Ever!

2011-09-25T08:00:00.001-06:00

Andrew has been working a lot. Long shifts at night for long stretches of time. While we are thankful for the overtime, we miss him while he is gone.

However, one day, daddy and Isaac went out to go look for some new golf shoes for daddy and they came back with something else...

Daddy bought Isaac a big boy bike!

The nights we have daddy at home have been spent riding his bike, he has even taken it to Papa and Nana's house to ride around there too! He loves the bike!

It was such a fun family moment. Isaac loves to ride through the neighborhood!

He LOVES the bike!

And he pretty much has the best daddy ever!

Blessings in Boxes

2011-09-24T08:00:00.001-06:00

One of the many blessings of having packed in preparation to move is that there is almost nothing to clean!

One of the things I dislike the most is dishes and since we only have 6 plates, 4 bowls, a handful of cups, some silverware from college and a few pots and one glass dish is that there aren't many dishes to do!

Blessings in Boxes - while I am in this season of waiting, preparation, study and rest, I will praise Him for the blessings of having the dishes in boxes!

A Real Train

2011-09-23T19:49:00.003-06:00

One of the things that blessed me during this time was a simple phone call I got one day from Isaac's Papa. He called, in the afternoon to see if Isaac could come ride on a REAL TRAIN!

It was such a blessing to watch my little man on this adventure!

We moved rail cars and laughed and laughed!

Isaac eventually started to fall asleep so we had to call it a day, but he had a great time and his mama was blessed by a phone call, an afternoon on a train and some time with Papa!

Him, Jesus, My One and Only, and I still love Him!

2011-09-09T20:21:00.006-06:00

Lots has happened. Lots of tears have been cried. Lots of stuff has been done and undone. Lots of time has been spent in prayer and anger. Lots of stuff, life's stuff has happened.

You see, for some time now, life has been a little overwhelming. I can almost pin point the date and time when things changed. A major transition occurred in my life two years ago, I found myself no longer employed by the place that had provided friendship, financial provision and routine for me and my little family of three. The sheer crushing blow to my self confidence has knocked me to the ground and I have stayed there, face down on the ground for two years.

It wasn't just the job that was the issue, things started to pile up from there. It was just the beginning, and I had no idea at the time it would be a two year process, which has lead to a very hard 6 months. I am not gonna lie, there have been moments that I thought things would never be normal or okay again. It was just the start of the adventure.

So, there I was, in this pit, no job, thrown into the life of a full time mama, while I searched for a job that paid money. I had started a ministry and began the process for it to become a Non Profit Organization, I had started writing, I had heard from the Lord about what was in store for me, I had known beyond any doubt that Girls Only Ministry would be my career, my life long calling. I sent out resumes and cover letters, I was a college graduate with LOTS of experience and didn't think it would be hard to find a job.

Shortly after my employment changes, my beloved dog went to be with Jesu s. I had never experienced such a loss, such heat ache, such pain. I still miss her to this day. I still hurt and I still cry over her.

A few months had past and more happened. An issue had come up that required me to get a lawyer. And a lawyer is what the Lord provided. It was Good Friday, I got an envelope delivered to my door in the morning, I got on the phone, I got in the car and I drove an hour to my parents house, I didn't even have on the appropriate clothing or shoes for what the day would hold. I met a man who loved Jesus and loved my family and didn't even know me. I met a man who would fight for me without asking for a dime in return. I met a BIG man, and by BIG, I mean he had to go duck and turn side ways to walk through a door way.

I am just started to see the damage that this one envelope had done to my heart. I am just starting to real heal from the words with this delivery. I am just starting to really talk to Jesus about it and it has been TWO YEARS!

Months had past. I had learned to cut coupons and save money in very way I could. I had learned to embrace a new routine as an at home mama that included trips to the library. I had received the very first copy of my first Bible Study that has been published. We had great family moments. I was enjoying my time with Isaac, but something deep inside was hurting.

I spent the mornings in the Word, I gave myself manicures and pedicures at home, I enjoyed life as best I could. We spent the summer camping, we enjoyed Isaac's 3rd birthday party with friends and family. We had put our townhome on the market and were going to sell the house.

We had an offer on the house and started to pack. Little did we know at the time we wouldn't be moving. We unpacked. Enjoyed Christmas. My heart still hurt. I cried a lot. I tried the best I could to be okay.

We said goodbye to 2010 and hello to 2011.

We learned that Isaac would be a BIG BROTHER. My pit dwelling time just started to consume me. My husband was working hard for our family, he works nights and took on more shifts and looking back I felt trapped within this pit I couldn't get out of. This pregnancy has been hard, we have had a rough time with our little girl, I have had a rough time emotionally and am ready to meet my daughter and hold her tightly! I am ready for her to be here, I just have to wait a little longer!

A few things have changed for our family financially over the past few months, which has provided us a way out of our town home. So, there we were packing once again. We had found a rental home we liked and were ready to move at the first of this month. But, just before we signed the lease, the plan changed and our things remain packed. We are waiting. I am waiting.

I have learned to speak honestly and openly with my Sweet Jesus. I have learned to give Him my opinion regardless of how it might sound. I have learned to be mad at Him and still love Him. And most of all, I have learned that I have been in a pit for a long time and am ready to get the heck out of it. So together, He and I are working on getting out of the pit I jumped into and never go back!

So for now, we will wait, I will wait on the Lord, I will dive into the Word and demand His attention! I will rest in the home we have for now and prepare for the one that is to come. I will wait, just wait.

Gone, but back...

2011-09-09T19:56:00.004-06:00

Well, a lot has happened in the Vigil house hold since I last posted pictures, wrote words down on paper or seen anyone really. We will get more into that later. But in the last few months, I have cried lots, laughed some, ate lots, and spent lots of time smothering myself with my child and my husband.

It has been an interesting few months. But, the Lord has remained faithful and I have emerged from under the cleft of the Rock stronger, more humble, cautious,wounded yet healing, refreshed yet still tired, and more educated and in love with Jesus. More on this journey over the next few days.

In the midst of everything the Lord has been doing, the moments of laughter have been a HUGE blessing. So we will start the recap of this journey with one of the best memories, bowling...

I took Isaac with me to an event for Girls Only Ministry, we had a bowling night, and it was his first time bowling and HE LOVED IT!

The night was good for my heart. The night was filled with laughter and love. My son thought bowling was the greatest thing in the world. I had some time to be wrapped up in watching these girls laugh, I sat back and watched my son play and play hard, I enjoyed the blessing of laughter.

I want to take Isaac bowling again, but the memory of this one trip is still so tender to me, I can't move on yet. So for now, I will cherish this one and re live it over and over again!

Did I mention we also ate bowling ally food? Which was FABULOUS!

More on the events of the past few months to come...

Ladybug

2011-07-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

While swimming in the toddler pool, Isaac found a friend.

Summer in July

2011-07-08T12:06:00.004-06:00

We have had fun this summer, we have spent HOURS outside. We have set up Isaac's toddler pool almost everyday, he swims, plays and we just hang out. I will post pictures of that soon.

For the 4th of July, we didn't do much. We hung out with friends and family. We lit sparklers and mama took pictures!

Isaac has loved the sparklers. They are much better at night, when it is dark!

We has a really cool firework in a box that we lit in Papa and Nana's street.
It was really cool! Isaac loved it!

And... a summer must... Isaac has been introduced to SLURPEE'S! He LOVES them!

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

From Isaac and his baby sister!

Spring/Summer School Play 2011

2011-07-03T14:19:00.008-06:00

Isaac had his Spring/Summer School Play on Thursday, June 30, 2011. He has practiced some songs and had been singing them around the house for weeks.

He needed some kind of army hat or jacket so Mama made him a hat out of army duck tape. Praise Jesus for Hobby Stores and cheap hats!

The play was called It's a Small World. The kids learned songs from all over the World. They made the flags and art work that you will see in the video.

Enjoy the video! I must say, it was rather cute!

Mama didn't tape the entire play, it was an hour long, just Isaac's songs!

Sorry about the strange color of the video... I am not sure why it has an orange tint to it.

Recently in our life...

2011-06-23T17:16:00.002-06:00

Isaac came down with a weird rash that required us to stay home for a few days and he had to wear mama's "bath towel" ... we made muffins and a cake, he loves to crack the eggs and stir the batter!

We found a splash park and spent the day outside!

Isaac jumped off rocks and ran through the water - it was a great day. Mama packed a lunch and we hung out, no TV, no phones, no computers, just us.

Papa, Nana, Aunt Esther, Uncle Tim, Daddy and Mama all went on vacation to Vegas for a few days. We slept in, spent the days by the pool, walked around at night, enjoyed great food and each other's company! Isaac stayed with a few friends while we were gone and had a fabulous time! He missed his mama and daddy, and we missed him.

We have spent a few days outside on the front yard. Just hanging out, enjoying the weather and the outside toys. We filled the toddler pool and have enjoyed summer! I love this time of year!

Played Hard...

2011-06-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

Isaac plays hard and sleeps hard.

He spent his entire nap on the couch one day, didn't move at all!

It was precious!

A Boy, some Bubbles and CARS

2011-06-16T16:18:00.002-06:00

One of the things Isaac LOVES to do is fill up the bathroom sink with lots of water and bubbles and wash all of his cars. He can spend hours in there, just playing in the water and laughing. And, the sink gets clean!

Girls Only Ministry: Summer Bible Study

2011-05-25T21:12:00.002-06:00

Wanna spend the summer together, in the WORD of Jesus?

I am dying to spend time together, with you, with Jesus, our Bibles, maybe a cup of coffee or a snack, anytime, everyday this summer, for 13 weeks, totaling 91 days.

I think it would be a fabulous way to spend time together, get to know each other more and fall more in love with Jesus on a daily basis.

So... I have set out to write and host a 91 day Bible Study, online. On the Girls Only Ministry Blog, which you can access via the Girls Only Website. You can check out all the details if you CLICK HERE.

I hope you join us! It will be fun!

THANK YOU!

2011-05-08T19:59:00.004-06:00

Dear Andrew,

Thank you for chatting with me on line while I was at CCU. Thank you for taking me mini golfing on our first "non" date. Thank you for reading the Word to me at night over the phone. Thank you for asking me to marry you.

Thank you for marrying me. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for fighting with me and for me. Thank you for choosing ME to do this adventure with you.

Thank you for the picnic's by the river. Thank you for the ski trip days. Thank you for the family vacations. Thank you for bringing home Nhyja.

Thank you for embracing change and reminding me of grace and mercy when I don't embrace it too well. Thank you for allowing me to become ME. Thank you for being YOU.

Thank you for making me a mama. Thank you for holding my hand. Thank you for playing Phase 10 and Yahtzee while we waited for our son to arrive!

Thank you for being a great dad, fabulous husband and amazing man! Thank you, I wouldn't be a mama if it weren't for you! Thank you for today, yesterday and tomorrow! I am so excited to be the mama of your children!

I love you very much!

Happy Birthday Esther!

2011-05-01T10:21:00.000-06:00

I have the BEST in-laws hands down! When Andrew and I got married I never could have imaged how much I would love the people in his family.

Esther, my sister, is one of the biggest blessings I could have ever prayed for. There is NO ONE in this world that I can talk to like I can talk to her. We just talk, it never has to be anything serious, but just talking to her makes my day.

She is one of the strongest women I know. She knows what she wants and she knows who she is. She loves deeply. Her work ethic is something I admire. She is smart, really smart! She is financially wise.

She is talented beyond measure! I could listen to this women play the piano all day! Seriously, if I was ever blessed with tons and tons of money, I would pay her to play the piano. When she plays, peace overwhelms me, emotion pours out of her fingers as they press down on the ivory keys.

Now, Esther is Andrew's baby sister. And let me tell you... my man loves his sister! I LOVE watching them do life together. My man adores this women. He supports her in every way possible and he would do anything for her! Their relationship inspires me as a mama, my prayer for Isaac is that he would have a relationship like theirs with his sibling one day.

Now, there is a man in Esther's life, Tim, and nothing makes me more emotional than seeing my sister loved. This man LOVES my sister and she LOVES him. I adore our time together, the four of us. I love that we can do out to dinner, see a baseball game and have a few drinks and really enjoy each other.

I know that she is my sister in law, but for some reason, that doesn't do our relationship justice, this women is my sister. And I love her!

Happy Birthday Esther! I love you! You have loved me and supported me in some hard moments and I could not begin to express how much you mean to me! I am so happy for you and truly love watching Tim love you! I am excited for the years to come, I LOVE YOU!

Easter... Peace... Jesus... Food!

2011-04-28T20:45:00.003-06:00

I was really excited to make brunch for Easter. I was really excited about Easter period! I adore Good Friday, and SUNDAY! I love that Jesus is the center of attention, I love that people who normally don't go to church attend church on Easter. I love that His LOVE reigns!

I did some research on good brunch recipes and by the time it was ready to make the food I COULDN'T WAIT! In fact, I would be tempted to make it again! I LOVED IT!

We had homemade caramel rolls, spinach and strawberry salad with homemade dressing, there was fresh fruit, homemade garlic/herb/jalapeno cheese spread on the yummiest bread ever. Oh and I cannot forget the tasty homemade lemon-aid!

Daddy was in charge of hiding the eggs and treats around the house and Isaac LOVED finding them all!

I love watching him find his treasures!

Daddy hid the treasures all over the house, even in Isaac's playroom!

One of my favorite things about this time of year and remembering my Jesus is all the fresh flowers! I have fallen in love with flowers, of all types! I have learned more and more about gardening and hope to have a yard one day to plant flowers, veggies and herbs in!

The Easter Bunny doesn't visit our house, we haven't introduced "him" to Isaac yet, I am not sure if we will... after all, Easter has been just precious with the focus on Him...

Isaac got some fun things from Grandpa Marty and Grandma Cheryl that he adores and are a huge hit!

I adore the pictures of Isaac hunting for treasures :)

It has been fun to watch him learn about Jesus and enjoy the joy that comes along with His love!

Wordless Wednesday: Park Pictures

2011-04-20T08:00:00.001-06:00

Time at the park...

2011-04-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

We went to the park, all three of us... it was FABULOUS! I took A LOT of pictures!

Isaac is an outdoor kid, he would spend every minute outside if he could!

He ran around, he played in the dirt and he LOVED it!

This kid loves the park!

Mama took A LOT of pictures and I will share more as the week goes on...

Happy Birthday Jenny!

2011-04-18T09:34:00.003-06:00

Today is Jenny Freyta's Birthday! I have known this woman 10 years. The very first time we met, the men we are married to were moving out of their apartment and talked their girl friends into helping them clean... we chatted as we cleaned...

Our friendship started off because of the men we dated and eventually married... but soon after we met, our friendship became our own. I love this woman...

I had the honor of witnessing her wedding. It was beautiful. She was beautiful. She loves me regardless of my spelling abilities and asked me to read at her wedding, which was HUGE honor for me and I will never forget that moment...

I have admired her style and love for shopping since I met her. Her love for jeans is something I adore about her. She has encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone, I have purchased clothing items because they remind me of her...

We have spent lots of time at The Olive Garden, chatting, sometimes crying and always laughing. She has seen me through some nasty times. She has challenged me, she has encouraged me, she has loved me when I did know right from wrong and she has always supported my marriage.

There is no better friend than this woman. And now, nearly 10 years later, I have had the opportunity to watch her become a mama, not once but twice. She smothers her kids in kisses, she plays with her daughter and cuddles with her new born son, she is confident in who she is...

This woman LOVES her husband and I am so encouraged by her devotion and passion for him. She is honest in her communication, she is affectionate, she is encouraging and she is supportive. She has made her home warm and comfortable for all those who live there and come to visit. I have watched this woman serve her husband in such a Jesus honoring way. I remember her husband saying that one of the things that attracted him to her was her heart to serve... this woman is one of the most generous servanthearted women I know.

This woman has confronted me on some icky issues in my life and loved me as I spoke honestly about what was going on. This woman has prayed over me. This woman has truly done life with me, the good and the ugly.

She is one of the strongest women I know, she has over come struggles with grace and she does what she needs to do with grace, even if that means returning to work on her birthday, no matter how hard it might be.

I wouldn't want to do life without her for one minute!

Happy Birthday Jenny! I love you! Have a great birthday and a blessed day back at work. I am covering your day in prayer and can't wait to hear all about it! I love you!

Oh Happy Dae!

2011-04-15T10:23:00.007-06:00

Today is her birthday... Stormie Dae! You can follow her creativeness here. She and her sister have one of the coolest blogs/businesses I know of! Check it out, you won't be disappointed.

You see, today, Stormie Dae turns 25, I have known of her for years, but I have loved her as a friend for 3 and she has changed me.

She has loved me for me.

She has encouraged me to embrace imperfection, which has brought out creativity and freedom I never knew existed.

She has supported me.

She has befriended me.

We have had some of the coolest conversations two women could have in a parking lot.

She loves coffee and has inspired me to embrace it.

She loves Jesus.

I could listen to her worship Him every minute of every day. She has taught our youth band how to worship their Savor and she has led me into His presence time and time again.

She is strong. She knows what she likes and dislikes. She knows what she wants and she is a giver of grace.

Happy Birthday my beloved friend! I love you!

May Jesus bless your life in ways that blow your mind. It has been an honor to do this thing called life with you!

Not the same... but better...

2011-04-14T18:22:00.003-06:00

For some reason, when I worked out of the home full time, our house stayed cleaner, our laundry got done, folded and put away and there wasn't so much "stuff" around...

... before I started to cook or prepare 3 meals a day at home, my kitchen was always spotless...

... I only ran the dishwasher once or twice a week and the counters were always clean and the sink was empty...

... but now, there is freshly made muffins and snacks, lunches are made at home most days and dinner...

... is something I have fallen in love with, I have cooked dinner at home at least 4 times a week for a few months now, sometimes, I even manage to cook dinner 5 nights a week...

... things have changed around here, there are dishes in the sink, I would love to have two washers, two dryers and two dishwashers... the sink is always full of dishes, laundry doesn't always get put away and the toys in Isaac's toy room actually have to be put away at the end of the day...

... I wouldn't have it any other way!

Family Nap Time... with a Marker...

2011-04-11T22:11:00.005-06:00

Being pregnant means I get to do more of the two things I really like to do... first... eat, anything that sounds good ... second... sleep... and I take every opportunity to do both.

My fabulous husband lets me sleep in regularly and we have "family nap time" during the day in our house. Daddy works nights so he sleeps during the day, so during "family nap time", Daddy is sleeping, Mama rests on the couch which normally turns into sleep and Isaac sleeps... usually...

One day he asked to take his nap in his play room on his couch. Which had been successful in the past so I didn't give it a second thought... until...

... I woke up and noticed that he had been colored from head to toe...

... literally from head to toe... he even colored the area under his underwear...

... he was orange ... it made me laugh but we had to talk about not coloring on the areas under our underwear, we waited to show Daddy until he woke up and then we took a bath before bed... he is my favorite...

Sick boy...

2011-03-23T18:07:00.001-06:00

Isaac hasn't been feeling too well, so we are hanging out in our comfortable clothes... Isaac loves Daddy's sweat pants!

Another First: The Dentist

2011-03-18T08:12:00.002-06:00

I am not a fan of the dentist. I don't like going, but it was time for Isaac to go so I had to be encouraging! His first trip to the dentist was on Wednesday. He has had a big week, with lots of 1st's!

He did great! He has been watching Caillou: Goes to the Dentist, and Isaac did GREAT!

Bless his heart, he loved the chair, the thought the light was cool.

He didn't gag, he didn't cry, he didn't even bite the wonderful dental assistant!

He just sat there and laughed as the dental assistant cleaned his teeth with the tickle toothbrush and chocolate tooth paste!

He loved the water sprayer and spit sucker! He wanted to take them home!

There was one time that he got nervous, but holding mama's hand did the trick!

He has a beautiful smile! What a cute kid! He did so good!

I was so proud of him!

He even got fluoride painted on, which he thought was really cool! He loved the little brush they used!

The dentist is much more fun when you are 3 years old!

1st Day of School - Pick Up

2011-03-16T12:00:00.000-06:00

I went to pick up Isaac and was so proud of him! He played well with the other kids!

He was sooooo excited to show me his reward! He got a sucker ball (A Dum Dum)! Isaac loves sucker balls!

When I asked him how he got it, he said he was the "star"... so his teacher, Miss Debbie explained it to me more... Everyday, the teacher sets goals for the kids and at the end of the day, if there is a child that did really well, they get their name written on the "star" and on Isaac's first day of school, he was one of the selected.

He kept his cubbie neat and organized, he shared well, he used manners and was nice. I was so proud of him! I was nervous about him going to school, and the Lord really blessed me with peace! It was a sweet mama moment...

... so I had to take a picture of his name on the star!

1st Day of School

2011-03-16T08:00:00.002-06:00

Tuesday was Isaac's first day of school! And HE WAS REALLY EXCITED! He could hardly sleep Monday night! He woke up excited... I mean REALLY excited!

He was excited to pack his backpack. He picked out a water bottle to take.

The backpack was the biggest hit! He has had it for a while, but today, it was the coolest thing ever to this little man!

From the minute we got out of the car, he ran and ran and ran!

Once we got into his classroom, he gave his mama a hug and went off to meet some new friends!

Isaac did so well at school. I had a harder time than I thought I would, but time went by and I was so excited to pick him up and hear all about his day! I was so proud of him!

Blanket Forts!

2011-03-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

Isaac has taken to his friends, Monkey, Teddy and Tiger... he loves to play with them!

One of the greatest things about the age 3 is to hear Isaac's imagination grow.
He will be in his play room, talking away with his toys!

Lately, he has LOVED building blanket forts in the living room. He will play in the tent for hours and then, he and his friends will ask for a little TV time together, it is just the sweetest thing!

What a sweet boy, and his friends!

SpRiNg TiMe HAS COME!

2011-03-14T11:16:00.002-06:00

It's been so warm outside so we broke out the sand box!

A little fresh air does this mama good!

And Isaac LOVES to be outside so it has been a great way to spend the afternoon!

Isaac will be a BIG BROTHER!

2011-03-11T09:30:00.004-07:00

Isaac is excited to announce that he is going to be a BIG BROTHER in September...

... he got to go to the doctor with mama to see the baby...

... he packed his backpack and picked out some snacks and we were set...

... he was such a good boy, he played nicely and was very polite...

... he sang the ABC song to mama during the exam and held my hand the entire time, it was a really sweet moment... until...

... he asked the doctor if we can take the baby home in the stroller and he said no, the doctor explained to Isaac that the baby has to grow in mama's belly some more before we can take it home and this was the reaction the doctor got...

Here is a video of our time at the doctor!

Swim Lessons

2011-03-11T09:21:00.004-07:00

Isaac hates to get his eyes wet. Even in the bathtub, he hates it!

So... mama found the coolest thing for swim lessons!

Isaac loves his blue goggles - he even wears them in the bathtub sometimes which makes washing his hair less of a fight!

Swim lessons are one of mama's favorite things... I love to watch him discover it all! It has to be one of my favorite "mama moments!"

Swim Lessons will have to be a regular thing around here! I love them and Isaac does too!

Trains....

2011-01-10T10:22:00.004-07:00

This little boy...

... loves trains...

... if we are stopped at the rail road tracks while a train is passing by...

... this little boy insists on rolling down the window, waving and yells "CHOOO CHOOO" at the top of his lungs...

... while we drive over the train tracks, this little boy puts his hands up as if he was on a roller coaster ride...

...this little boy LOVES trains... and his mama thinks of him every time she sees a train or rail road track!

All of the pictures in this post were taken by my sister who is a fabulous photographer - check her stuff out here: http://mcpix.wordpress.com/

Goodbye 2010 - HELLO 2011

2011-01-05T12:51:00.006-07:00

A year ago this month, I got on a plane and never looked back...

... I got off that plane, with a different "job", and a sick dog...

... in 2010, my precious Nhyja went to Jesus...

... family came into town to celebrate my Grandpa Mel's 80th Birthday...

... Handy Manny came to stay for the month of October...

... I dove into the Word and was changed...

... we packed and then unpacked without moving...

... we drew pictures of Jesus for Santa...

... we made cookies ...

... we enjoyed time with family ...

... we experienced Christmas through the eyes of a three year old...

... we ate a Christmas ornament and didn't die... it was a really OLD candy cane...

Most of all in 2010, our lives were changed, our hearts grew to love Jesus more and we saw HIM provide in ways we never imaged. 2010 was a good year, a hard year, a year of emotion, love, peace, joy, and Jesus... it will be fun to discover what He has in store in 2011...

and I will be attempting to blog on a regular basis again... Praise JESUS for blogging!

Journal Journey 4

2010-12-06T20:05:00.001-07:00

“The Lord won’t give me more than I can handle.”

I've been saying this quote every minute of the last few days. I seriously have been repeating out loud to anyone who would listen. You see, right now, in my house, we are moving... we are scheduled to be out of our current place by December 17, 2010 - we have started packing... but we also have a three year old. Which means, things don't always happen how I would like them to happen!

But in addition to our rambunctious, stubborn, full of energy, delightful, challenging, boundary testing, full of laughter, child, we also have other stuff on our plate. My husband works full time, he is currently working nights, and I am working for Girls Only, as well as a few other tasks the Lord has given to me. So... is it true... "The Lord won't give me more than I can handle"

This gets thrown around a lot. I say it a lot and I say it to other people a lot. My intention is to try to encourage a friend or family member whenever times are tough, however, recently, the phrase would not leave my mind and I have been on the journey for truth, so I have decided to dig into a little bit.

I understand the importance of encouragement, I for one, thrive off of words of encouragement… but more than anything, I want TRUTH! While this phrase sounds very positive and affirming, you will not find “God won’t give you more than you can handle” anywhere within the pages of the Bible. It simply doesn’t exist.

What you will find is the verse that it appears to be a misquotation of, 1 Corinthians 10:13:

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (emphasis mine)

Through my research, I have come to learn TRUTH POINT #1: God does not tempt anyone.

James 1:13 emphatically states, “Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am being tempted by God,’ for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one.”

So, while God does not tempt us, He does, in His sovereignty, permit us to be tempted. This is to grow us in holiness. When Paul writes that God will not tempt us beyond our ability, Paul means that we are never in a situation where have no other choice but to sin.

In a situation where telling the truth will damage your reputation, for example, it’s much easier to give in to the temptation to protect how people see you and lie, rather than do the right thing, which is tell the truth. TRUST ME, the temptation of protecting one’s reputation, or “testimony”, is near and dear to me. But again, I have been on this journey of TRUTH…

And I have learned that easy rarely equals right. We always have the option of doing the right thing, that which is honoring to God, but it will often cost us—whether that cost is reputation, position, relationship, or money, there will be a cost.

TRUTH POINT #2: God will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability to do what is right, He will almost always give us more than we can handle on our own. Learning this little piece of truth has not helped my overwhelmed, stressed out, tired, self. But again, it is about the journey of truth!

Over again in the Bible, we see men and women who are given far more than they can handle. The prophet Jeremiah is a great example; he was charged with preaching repentance to the people of Israel, a calling that caused him to be beaten, plotted against and rejected by everyone, even his own family. Emotionally, that was far more than he could handle (as we see in his many laments).The ministry of the Apostle Paul is probably one of the most powerful examples of this truth found in Scripture.

In 2 Corinthians 11:21-30, he tells us the following:

But whatever anyone else dares to boast of—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast of that. Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they offspring of Abraham? So am I. Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one—I am talking like a madman—with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death. Five times I received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers; in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety for all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant?

If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.

Paul doesn’t tell us these things to boast in how he took all this suffering and adversity like a man—he does it so that we might know that God will always give us more than we can handle. He ”boasts of the things that show my weakness” (v. 30) because those things show his (and our) dependency on the power and mercy of God. Earlier in this letter to the Corinthian church, Paul exhorts his readers with the following:

For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead (2 Corinthians 1:8,9, emphasis mine).

What he tells them is this: “We were so afflicted that we thought we were going to die! We were burdened beyond our ability, and we could not handle it—But God gave us this adversity and burden so that we would rely on Him who can!”God is making it clear that we are not self-sufficient. We cannot just hunker down and power through every situation. And we cannot white-knuckle our way to holiness. We need Him. So maybe we need to stop seeing the trials and adversity in our lives as a burden, as an indication that God doesn’t love us. Maybe we need to start seeing them as proof that God indeed loves us very much—so much so that He will not let us try to rely on our own strength, but continue to show us that we must rely on Him to endure suffering and persevere until the end.

So… as overwhelmed as I am, as tired as I am, as stressed out and cranky as I have been today, I will no longer look myself in the mirror and say to myself “He will not give me more than I could handle…” Because if it is not TRUTH, it is NOT from Him, and if it is NOT from HIM, it is from the enemy, who will not have a place in my life. So back off you evil nasty thing, get behind me and take your stinking lies with you!

Instead, I will look at myself in the mirror and say TRUTH POINT #3: “I will not have to walk through this without HIM, He is with ME, and together, WE can do this.” I will repeat over and over again “Jesus loves me this I know, for HIS WORD, tells me so”… I will run to His word, I will journal all of my frustrations and stress. I will talk with Him as I walk through this stressed out time in life. Because this I do know:

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

TRUTH POINT #4: I do KNOW that HE sent His Son to die for ME, I do know that I am HIS and HE is mine… so let’s do this thing!

Journey Journal 3

2010-11-26T22:25:00.003-07:00

I am still in the midst of this journey of surrender. It's been an emotional journey thus far and if the only thing that comes out of it, is that I am able to know, He loves me and who loves me not, than so be it, I will continue...

He LOVES me... Jesus loves me this I know, for the BIBLE tells me so...

... he loves me not... "Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made" Genesis 3:1

He LOVES me... He is the giver of all things... on May 22, 2004 Andrew Vigil chose to marry Mary Olson and make her HIS wife...

... he loves me not... he is the father of lies... "... When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies." John 8:44

He LOVES me... He gives life abundantly... on October 19, 2007 Andrew and Mary Vigil became the proud and humble parents of Isaac Martin Vigil...

... he loves me not... he leads me into temptation... Matthew 4:1-11

HE LOVES ME... The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness. For His name's sake. Psalm 23

He LOVES me... this I know, this I have seen, this I have recored!

Happy 3rd Birthday Isaac Martin!

2010-11-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

We had a little party at our house for Isaac...

There were decorations, balloons, AMAZING food (thanks to my man), and LOTS of gifts...

... don't worry, there was also cake!

Grandpa, Grandma, Papa, Nana, Papa George (mama's grandpa), MorMor (mama's grandma) were all there! Auntie Esther, Tim, Auntie Mandy, Uncle Jim, Mercedes and Auntie Card was there too!

At the end of the party, we let the binkies and ballons go the the puppy (Nia) who is now with Jesus... big boys don't have binkies!

Not having the binkies around went well for Isaac, he did great sleeping without it, he hasn't missed them really. He misses the puppy more...

Isaac - 3rd Birthday

2010-11-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

A month ago, I had a date with the most handsome little man EVER - we went to the Aquarium, like we did last year! It was fabulous! We met Auntie Esther there too!

We spent most of the time looking for Nemo and Dori! When we found them, it was a BIG deal!

We had a great day! We ate lunch at the Aquarium cafe and just enjoyed our time together. A special day for mama, Isaac and Auntie Esther!

Journey Journal 2

2010-11-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

In the midst of this journey...

... there is a 3 year old boy that has helped his mama get her "homework" done...

... there is joy in the midst of the interruptions, there is grace in the midst of the frustration...

... and there is laughter in the midst of the tears... Praise Jesus for Isaac, whose names just "happens" to mean laughter!

Journey Journal 1

2010-11-15T10:11:00.004-07:00

I am on an 8-9 week journey with the Lord. I am learning what it is like to surrender the things that have "held me up" for so long. You know, I have gotten so use to carrying around my own baggage that I don't think I will be able to stand up without it. Let alone, walk. I have gotten use to carrying it around, learning on it, claiming it as a part of my identity. I am not sure I know who I am with out all that stuff.

I am keeping a daily journal, but I have decided to blog this journey as well. Mostly because I am a verbal processor but also because in the last two weeks my world has been rocked, in a good way. I have learned more about my JESUS in the past two weeks than I ever thought possible. So, I am back, to blog, to post pictures, to process....

I have always been comfortable with the title LORD... when it comes to The One and Only. But I have never really embraced His title of Father, Abba, until now. I came across an AMAZING passage: Isaiah 43:2-4 from The Message translation.

"Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You're mine. When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you. When you're in rough waters, you will not go down. When you're between a rock and a hard place, it won't be a dead end—Because I am God, your personal God, The Holy of Israel, your Savior.
I paid a huge price for you: all of Egypt, with rich Cush and Seba thrown in! That's how much you mean to me! That's how much I love you! I'd sell off the whole world to get you back, trade the creation just for you.

For some reason, after reading this passage, it hit me... HE IS MINE! ALL MINE! I read this passage and it felt like it was a letter from my Father, to HIS daughter. I can't contain the feelings that rush in like an out of control flame... it takes my breath away, my face gets hot, my hands get sweaty and my heart beats faster than ever before: He'd sell off the whole world, the very thing HE created with HIS own hands, just for ME... perfectly imperfect ME!

Part of this journey includes opening the baggage I have walked around with for so long, opening it, calling it by name, bringing it before HIM, honestly talking with HIM about it, leaving it with HIM and accepting whatever HE chooses to do with it.

In the midst of the business of this journey there are constant interruptions by a dearly loved 3 year old, the responsibilities of the Non Profit Ministry that is run out of our home are overwhelming and the fact that laundry has to get done, bathrooms need cleaned, groceries need to be purchased and meals need to be made are too much to handle at times, I have found my patience is less than normal.

I find that I get cranky at the drop of a hat. My response is a "NO" because it is what comes to mind first, rather than a "YES". My alone time is non-existent. My quiet time consists of any minute I can get away, and a few minutes or an hour or two on a good day after the 3 year old is in bed for the evening...

I find that I am constantly running to my Abba, my FATHER, for help. For His WORD says that when I am over my head, HE is there... and let me tell you, I have been over my head for a while now. I am constantly embarrassed by the way I respond to the sudden RUSH of emotions. I yell at my man for really no reason at all. I can hardly wait for nap time and bed time during the day, just the stillness of the house brings peace, in the midst of a rather consuming emotional time.

And yet... His love letter to me stands firm. I will not be consumed by the over whelming emotions of the journey. I will not drown as a result of my attempt to navigate these rather rough waters. And in the midst of it all, He would sell off the very thing HE created just for me. And yet, I am hardly functioning on a good day, and HE still thinks of me as worthy enough.

Pictures, processing and imperfections to come...

2010-11-03T22:09:00.002-06:00

–verb (used with object)

to yield (something) to the possession or power of another;deliver up possession of on demand or under duress: tosurrender the fort to the enemy; to surrender the stolengoods to the police.

to give (oneself) up, as to the police.

to give (oneself) up to some influence, course, emotion, etc.:He surrendered himself to a life of hardship.

to give up, abandon, or relinquish (comfort, hope, etc.).

to yield or resign (an office, privilege, etc.) in favor ofanother.

–verb (used without object)

to give oneself up, as into the power of another; submit oryield.

–noun

the act or an instance of surrendering.

Insurance . the voluntary abandonment of a life-insurancepolicy by the owner for any of its nonforfeiture values.

the deed by which a legal surrendering is made.

I am on a journey to surrender - surrender my pride, my secrets, my shame, my past, my future, my husband, my son, my life and my love. I am not sure what this journey looks like, all I know is that the ONE I am surrendering to, is GOOD. He is good, HE is true and HE is love. Here is to a journey that will change me, change my love for HIM, my life and my heart...

Happy 3rd Birthday Isaac Martin!

2010-10-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

1 day... 3 years...

2010-10-18T07:00:00.001-06:00

Dear Jesus - I praise you for my son. May I always see you in him. May he see YOU in the beauty that sounds him and may he feel your presence constantly. Bless him with a heart that desires you. Watch over him as he grows up and experiences all you have planned for him. Thank you for trusting him to me. Thank you for blessing me with his daddy to share this adventure with. Thank you for the leadership you have given my man and the blessings you have handed over to us. May we honor you with all we do. Amen

2 days... 3 years

2010-10-17T07:00:00.001-06:00

I can...

... do all things...

... through CHRIST...

... who gives...

... me strength...

Dear Isaac, may the Lord bless you with patience. May He fill your body with the strength you will need to accomplish all HE has planned for you. May HE be the light that never burns out and the joy that gives you peace. Remember my son, you CAN do ALL things with HIM to help. I LOVE YOU!

3 days... 3 years...

2010-10-16T07:00:00.002-06:00

Dear Isaac, my son, your name means laughter. And my sweet son, you have the BEST laugh this mama has ever heard! May the joy of the Lord bless you beyond measure. May His love and laughter fill your heart and tickle your soul. Every time I hear you laugh my heart is still, my mind is at peace and I am well. I love your laugh. I love your spirit and I love you.

4 days... 3 years

2010-10-15T07:00:00.002-06:00

Even

youths grow tired and weary

and young men

stumble and fall

but those who HOPE in the Lord will renew their strength

they will mount up on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:30-31

Dear Isaac, may you always HOPE in the Lord. I love you.

5 days... 3 years...

2010-10-14T07:00:00.001-06:00

Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. Psalm 51:2

I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. Ezekiel 36:25

You must distinguish between the holy and the common, between the unclean and the clean... Leviticus 11:11

You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. John 15:3

Dear Isaac, my most passionate prayer for you today is that you will have confidence in the blood of Jesus Christ that has washed you clean, from ALL your sin. May you have confidence in the power that comes with that gift. May you rebuke the guilt of the world and may you know, without a doubt, that the Lord your God, who has cleansed you from all unrighteousness, is not a God of guilt, but of forgiveness. I love you sweet son of mine!

6 days... 3 years

2010-10-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. Psalm 33:11

I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. Psalm 89:1

Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures. Psalm 119:90

Your name, O LORD, endures forever, your renown, O LORD, through all generations. Psalm 135:13

Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made. Psalm 145:13

Dear Isaac, the men in your family are wonderful men. I cannot praise the Lord enough for the men he has placed ahead of you. These men are strong, they are wise, they are capable, they are handy, they love cars and trucks and dirt too... I am so blessed by their love for you, my son!

7 days... 3 years...

2010-10-12T07:00:00.003-06:00

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." Lamentation 3:22-24

An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips.Proverbs 24:26

O my God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, and am not silent.

Psalm 22:2

The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. Psalm 34:17

I cry out to God Most High, to God, who fulfills {his purpose} for me.

Psalm 57:2

For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. Psalm 72:12

Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

Proverbs 16:3

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24

For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. James 3:17

Dear Isaac, may you know that the LORD your God is your portion, may you be comfortable waiting for Him to move. May your words be honest. May you cry out to the Lord for anything and everything. May you cry out with passion and honesty, expecting Him to hear you and speak. Isaac Martin Vigil, may you walk in wisdom and consider it a precious blessing. I love you my little man. It is an honor to be your mama and your daddy's wife.

8 days... 3 years ...

2010-10-11T11:28:00.002-06:00

In just 8 days, my baby will be three years old... so, over the next 8 days, I am going to post a few pictures of what our life has looked like over the past few years.

Dear Isaac, you daddy and I love you, your daddy and I love each other and your daddy and I love Jesus. You see, my sweet baby, you are a part of your daddy and I... we are two very opinionated and stubborn people. We are passionate. We are sarcastic. We love to laugh. We adore you. We work hard and play harder. We, well, technically me, love to sleep. We have had a great time doing life together, and we have loved doing life with you, right in the middle of it all.

I am excited to see you grow up sweet son of my mine. I am excited to see what parts of me and what parts of your daddy come out in your personality. I am excited to watch you fall madly in love with Jesus. I am excited and terrified to watch you love that special person the Lord has picked out for you and I am excited to see what the Lord has planned for us in the next few years.

I pray that you glean wisdom for those that surround you. I pray that you continue to scream, "MY CHURCH" every time we drive up to or past the church. I pray blessing over you and I ask for the Lord to cover you with peace and keep you from anxiety. I cannot beg Him enough for His peace to just rain down over you my sweet one. May He bless your nights with rest and your days with joy! I love you Isaac Martin Vigil!

Just Me

Happy Valentines Day!

Play Time...

Valentines

Brownies for the neighbors

She loves.....

Bath Time - Play Time

Snow Day!

Home...

Christmas at our house..

Her + Him = Them

Beautiful Girl

Merry Christmas

Santa Hats and Frosty

Our Tree in 2011

Isaac: Also known as Joseph

Quiet Time for Two

This little boy...

First Bath - Big Brother Helped

Great Grandparents

A hat... no small thing...

30 days, 1 month, Praise Jesus!

4 Weeks ago...

Homework

A look back...

Halloween

This is what happens...

More birthday parties!

Isaac's 4th Birthday!!!

Blessed

His story... HE is faithful...

A Day Out with Thomas

Welcome to the family, blog, offically...

School has started!

Best Daddy Ever!

Blessings in Boxes

A Real Train

Him, Jesus, My One and Only, and I still love Him!

Gone, but back...

Ladybug

Summer in July

Happy 4th of July

Spring/Summer School Play 2011

Recently in our life...

Played Hard...

A Boy, some Bubbles and CARS

Girls Only Ministry: Summer Bible Study

THANK YOU!

Happy Birthday Esther!

Easter... Peace... Jesus... Food!

Wordless Wednesday: Park Pictures

Time at the park...

Happy Birthday Jenny!

Oh Happy Dae!

Not the same... but better...

Family Nap Time... with a Marker...

Sick boy...

Another First: The Dentist

1st Day of School - Pick Up

1st Day of School

Blanket Forts!

SpRiNg TiMe HAS COME!

Isaac will be a BIG BROTHER!

Swim Lessons

Trains....

Goodbye 2010 - HELLO 2011

Journal Journey 4

Journey Journal 3

Happy 3rd Birthday Isaac Martin!

Isaac - 3rd Birthday

Journey Journal 2

Journey Journal 1

sur·ren·der

Happy 3rd Birthday Isaac Martin!

1 day... 3 years...

2 days... 3 years

3 days... 3 years...

4 days... 3 years

5 days... 3 years...

6 days... 3 years