These were taken when my brother came to see us- only a few days before he left for Iraq. It was a bittersweet time. So good to see him, and so hard to let him go, knowing he was leaving to go to war!
Friday, July 20, 2007
I figured out my camera!!!
Macro
These are the results of my first attempt to use the macro setting on my camera. I saw these flowers and couldn't resist trying to capture their beauty on film.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Just for Nichole
Ok, so to keep Mrs. Jordan happy, I feel I must post something new.
Here it is!
Not too much to report these days, just super busy being mommy to my two boys. Brandon had his two month check up last Monday. He's doing well, but of course, that also meant that he had to get shots. Ryan's been fighting a cold and an eye infection. Needless to say, last week was taken up with caring for two little guys who didn't feel good! I'm so glad they're doing better now.
Oh, I just found out that my friend Alarice is pregnant with her first baby!!! I'm so excited for her. She and her DH have been wanting a little one of their own for a long time. If all goes well, they'll get their bundle of joy in April of next year!
Well, Brandon's napping, so I better take advantage of the quiet and get something done around here!
Nichole, you better comment after all that drama about me needing to update! :) Love ya!
Here it is!
Not too much to report these days, just super busy being mommy to my two boys. Brandon had his two month check up last Monday. He's doing well, but of course, that also meant that he had to get shots. Ryan's been fighting a cold and an eye infection. Needless to say, last week was taken up with caring for two little guys who didn't feel good! I'm so glad they're doing better now.
Oh, I just found out that my friend Alarice is pregnant with her first baby!!! I'm so excited for her. She and her DH have been wanting a little one of their own for a long time. If all goes well, they'll get their bundle of joy in April of next year!
Well, Brandon's napping, so I better take advantage of the quiet and get something done around here!
Nichole, you better comment after all that drama about me needing to update! :) Love ya!
Friday, June 22, 2007
New arrival!!!
Congratulations and praise the Lord for the safe delivery of little Kaitlynn Payne. I'm so happy for you, Crystal, and thankful for God's protection and grace through this difficult pregnancy and delivery!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
New Links
Hey all!!
Check out the new website for our church and our pastor's blog! The links are on my sidebar. We're very excited about all these new changes-Enjoy!!!
Check out the new website for our church and our pastor's blog! The links are on my sidebar. We're very excited about all these new changes-Enjoy!!!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
The Lord is good!
June 6, 2001-- This was the day that I lost our first child. As a Christian, I put no faith in and have no superstitions concerning dates, but when that nurse told me over the phone that June 6 was the date of Brandon's surgery, I have to admit that it affected me. I knew that God would be in control whether his procedure was the 6th, the 16th, or the 26th, but still that added something to my fears for my son.
I also dealt with the memories of losing Abigail, especially the memory of giving my daughter to my dad and watching him walk out the door with her body, knowing that I would never hold her again. I knew that when I had to hand Brandon over to that nurse, it was going to be the hardest thing I've done in my life up to now!
I wanted to share some of these things here with my friends that read my blog. You all know by now that Brandon did well and came through everything with a clean bill of health, but I wanted you all to know how the Lord helped me and my family, as well as how gracious He was to Brandon.
My dear friend Nichole and my parents were with Steven and I through last week. I don't think we could have made it through the waiting and the long days without their support and helping hands. They were there to see us through each moment, each update and each consult. My dad's prayer in the waiting room after we gave Brandon over to the nurse meant so very much to me! I know that the Lord heard him as well as all those who were praying for us last Wednesday.
Steven and I were waiting for the doctor to talk to us when they wheeled Brandon out of the operating room. I heard his cry before I saw them bring him through those doors. What a precious sound it was in that moment! He was definitely letting those nurses know how unhappy he was about not having eaten in several hours!
The doctor sat down with us to let us know that she was very pleased with the outcome of the procedure. Her words were, "There was a big pop, so I'm certain we got a good result." I'm wasn't sure I wanted to think about that too much, but I'm glad that the balloon they inflated inside his valve did what it was suppose to do. Brandon's valve will never be perfect, but it can be made "good enough." That is what happened. He will have to be monitored regularly for the rest of his life, but the Lord willing, this procedure did its job, and he will not have to have a cardiac catherization again.
The little guy was such a trooper!!! He really did so well being poked and prodded and held down and kept away from mommy. I can tell that he's not quite back to normal yet as far as eating and sleeping, but physically he's doing wonderfully! I think he's more alert now as well. He's staying awake more during the day and looking around and responding to our voices in ways that he wasn't just a few days ago. We had several rough days after coming home, but I'm hoping that we're getting back to some semblance of normal now! I could really tell that he was wanting to be close to me those first few days home. He cried a lot more and pretty much wasn't happy unless he was cuddled in my arms. Believe me, I was happy to give him what he wanted!
The Lord has been so merciful the past few weeks. It hasn't been easy, but I know that He was with us through it all and will continue to walk with us through whatever the future holds for our family.
We are facing so many decisions right now as a family. I believe that the outcome of Brandon's surgery was a token of God's love for us and His continued watch-care over us in the midst of what is a time of trial not only for our immediate family, but extended family as well. Steven's mom is not doing well physically. She's in the hospital again with unexplained symptoms that are baffling the doctors who have examined her. My brother is about to be deployed for the second time to Iraq, and my brother-in-law has been there since last August and doesn't expect to be home until at least October.
So, I ask that you all continue to keep us in your prayers, but the Lord is gracious and hears the prayers of His children.
Psalm 13:6- I will sing unto the LORD, because He hath dealt bountifully with me.
I also dealt with the memories of losing Abigail, especially the memory of giving my daughter to my dad and watching him walk out the door with her body, knowing that I would never hold her again. I knew that when I had to hand Brandon over to that nurse, it was going to be the hardest thing I've done in my life up to now!
I wanted to share some of these things here with my friends that read my blog. You all know by now that Brandon did well and came through everything with a clean bill of health, but I wanted you all to know how the Lord helped me and my family, as well as how gracious He was to Brandon.
My dear friend Nichole and my parents were with Steven and I through last week. I don't think we could have made it through the waiting and the long days without their support and helping hands. They were there to see us through each moment, each update and each consult. My dad's prayer in the waiting room after we gave Brandon over to the nurse meant so very much to me! I know that the Lord heard him as well as all those who were praying for us last Wednesday.
Steven and I were waiting for the doctor to talk to us when they wheeled Brandon out of the operating room. I heard his cry before I saw them bring him through those doors. What a precious sound it was in that moment! He was definitely letting those nurses know how unhappy he was about not having eaten in several hours!
The doctor sat down with us to let us know that she was very pleased with the outcome of the procedure. Her words were, "There was a big pop, so I'm certain we got a good result." I'm wasn't sure I wanted to think about that too much, but I'm glad that the balloon they inflated inside his valve did what it was suppose to do. Brandon's valve will never be perfect, but it can be made "good enough." That is what happened. He will have to be monitored regularly for the rest of his life, but the Lord willing, this procedure did its job, and he will not have to have a cardiac catherization again.
The little guy was such a trooper!!! He really did so well being poked and prodded and held down and kept away from mommy. I can tell that he's not quite back to normal yet as far as eating and sleeping, but physically he's doing wonderfully! I think he's more alert now as well. He's staying awake more during the day and looking around and responding to our voices in ways that he wasn't just a few days ago. We had several rough days after coming home, but I'm hoping that we're getting back to some semblance of normal now! I could really tell that he was wanting to be close to me those first few days home. He cried a lot more and pretty much wasn't happy unless he was cuddled in my arms. Believe me, I was happy to give him what he wanted!
The Lord has been so merciful the past few weeks. It hasn't been easy, but I know that He was with us through it all and will continue to walk with us through whatever the future holds for our family.
We are facing so many decisions right now as a family. I believe that the outcome of Brandon's surgery was a token of God's love for us and His continued watch-care over us in the midst of what is a time of trial not only for our immediate family, but extended family as well. Steven's mom is not doing well physically. She's in the hospital again with unexplained symptoms that are baffling the doctors who have examined her. My brother is about to be deployed for the second time to Iraq, and my brother-in-law has been there since last August and doesn't expect to be home until at least October.
So, I ask that you all continue to keep us in your prayers, but the Lord is gracious and hears the prayers of His children.
Psalm 13:6- I will sing unto the LORD, because He hath dealt bountifully with me.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Brandon's Heart
Here's a letter I sent out yesterday to all our friends and family. I thought others might want to have this news as well.
Dear Family and Friends,
Some of you already know that Brandon was diagnosed with a heart murmur before we left the hospital.
On Monday, we had a check up with a pediatric cardiologist from Cook Children's Hospital in Ft. Worth. After looking at the echocardiogram(sono of the heart), the doctor determined that there is moderate to severe blockage of his pulmonary valve. At this point, Brandon's heart is strong and healthy, but this condition is one that if let go, would eventually lead to symptoms that would damage his heart. With that in mind, the doctor wants to do a cardiac catherization. The procedure is called a Pulmonary Balloon Valvuloplasty. Basically, it's the same procedure as an angioplasty, except done on the heart valve, not the arteries. This is actually a fairly common procedure, and though there is some risk involved, it is less than 1%. They will be putting Brandon under general anesthesia for the two hours it will take them to complete the catherization. He should not have any side effects afterwards other than possibly small changes in his eating and sleeping routine.
The procedure is scheduled for June 6th at 9:30 in the morning. It will be done at Cook Children's Hospital in Ft. Worth. He will have to stay over night for observation, and if his post-op labs are clear, he will be released on Thursday, the 7th.
Please keep us all in prayer. Though the doctors are assuring us of a good outcome and low risk, etc, etc, it is still scary to have our baby going through so much! Pray that we would be able to find a peace in the midst of all of this and be able to restfully trust in God's providential workings in our life.
I will keep everyone informed on Brandon's condition as I am able.
God bless,
Rebekah
Dear Family and Friends,
Some of you already know that Brandon was diagnosed with a heart murmur before we left the hospital.
On Monday, we had a check up with a pediatric cardiologist from Cook Children's Hospital in Ft. Worth. After looking at the echocardiogram(sono of the heart), the doctor determined that there is moderate to severe blockage of his pulmonary valve. At this point, Brandon's heart is strong and healthy, but this condition is one that if let go, would eventually lead to symptoms that would damage his heart. With that in mind, the doctor wants to do a cardiac catherization. The procedure is called a Pulmonary Balloon Valvuloplasty. Basically, it's the same procedure as an angioplasty, except done on the heart valve, not the arteries. This is actually a fairly common procedure, and though there is some risk involved, it is less than 1%. They will be putting Brandon under general anesthesia for the two hours it will take them to complete the catherization. He should not have any side effects afterwards other than possibly small changes in his eating and sleeping routine.
The procedure is scheduled for June 6th at 9:30 in the morning. It will be done at Cook Children's Hospital in Ft. Worth. He will have to stay over night for observation, and if his post-op labs are clear, he will be released on Thursday, the 7th.
Please keep us all in prayer. Though the doctors are assuring us of a good outcome and low risk, etc, etc, it is still scary to have our baby going through so much! Pray that we would be able to find a peace in the midst of all of this and be able to restfully trust in God's providential workings in our life.
I will keep everyone informed on Brandon's condition as I am able.
God bless,
Rebekah
Friday, May 18, 2007
My sons
There aren't words to express how very grateful I am to the Lord for giving me, not one, but two precious little boys to love and cherish.
I have read about several different families recently that have gone through terrible times of pain and grieving because of losing their sons to genetic disorders. Their stories have made me even more aware of how fleeting life is and how thankful we need to be for every minute God gives us to enjoy our children.
So, be thankful for every moment you have with those whom you love! We have no guarantees of tomorrow. We have no promises for a future here with our loved ones.
I am blessed to know that whatever tomorrow holds, I have a God that will carry me through and has promised to be with me every moment.
Ryan and Brandon, Mommy loves you with all her heart!
The LORD giveth, and the LORD taketh away. Blessed be the name of the LORD. ~JOB
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
For David
The Sniper
The sun beat like a hammer, not a cloud was in the sky.
The mid-day air ran thick with dust; my throat was parched and dry.
With microphone clutched tight in hand and cameraman in tow,
I ducked beneath a fallen roof, surprised to hear "Stay low."
My eyes blinked several times before in shadow I could see,
The figure stretched across the rubble, several steps away from me.
He wore a cloak of burlap strips, all shades of gray and brown,
That hung in tatters till he seemed to melt into the ground.
He never turned his head or took his eye from off the scope,
But pointed through the broken wall and down the rocky slope.
"About eight hundred yards," he said, his whispered words concise,
Beneath the baggy jacket he is wearing a device.
A chill ran up my spine despite the swelter of the heat,
"You think he's going to set it off along the crowded street?
The sniper gave a weary sigh and said "I wouldn't doubt it,
Unless there's something this old gun and I can do about it."
A thunder clap, a tongue of flame, the still abruptly shattered:
While citizens that walked the street were just as quickly scattered.
Till only one remained, a body crumpled on the ground,
The threat to oh so many ended by a single round.
And yet the sniper had no cheer, no hint of any gloat,
Instead he took a logbook out and quietly he wrote.
"Hey I could put you on TV, that shot was quite a story!"
But he surprised me once again- "I got no wish for glory."
"Are you for real?" I asked in awe, "You don't want fame or credit?"
He looked at me with saddened eyes and said "You just don't get it.
"You see that shot-up length of wall, the one without a door?
Before a mortar hit it, it was a grocery store."
"But don't go thinking that to Bomb a store is all that cruel,
The rubble just across the street -it used to be a school.
The little kids played soccer in the field out by the road,"
His head hung low, they never ever thought a car would just explode.
"As bad as all this is though, it could be a whole lot worse,"
He swallowed hard; the words came from his mouth just like a curse.
"Today the fights on foreign land, on streets that aren't my own,"
"I'm here today 'cause if I fail, the next fights back at home."
"And I won't let my Safeway burn, my neighbors dead inside,
Don't want to get a call from school that says my daughter died;
I pray that not a one of them will know the things I see,
Nor have the work of terrorists etched in their memory."
"So you can keep your trophies and your fleeting bit of fame,
I don't care if I make the news, or if they speak my name."
He glanced toward the camera and his brow began to knot,
"If you're looking for a story, why not give this one a shot."
"Just tell the truth of what you see, without the slant or spin:
That most of us are OK and we're coming home again.
And why not tell our folks back home about the good we've done,
How when they see Americans, the kids come at a run."
You tell 'em what it means to folks here just to speak their mind,
Without the fear that that tyranny is just a step behind:
Describe the desert miles they walk in their first chance to vote,
Or ask a soldier if he's proud, I'm sure you'll get a quote."
He turned and slid the rifle in a drag bag thickly padded,
Then looked again with eyes of steel as quietly he added:
"And maybe just remind the few, if ill of us they speak,
That we are all that stands between the monsters and the weak.
- By Michael Marks
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Thursday, April 19, 2007
YAY!!!!
My sweet, sweet hubby took me shopping this past weekend to buy me a new digital camera. He ended up getting me a REALLY nice one that has so many features, it'll take me forever to figure it all out! But hopefully, now that I'm back up to date with technology, I'll be able to share a lot more photos of our family, especially with Brandon's birth only two weeks away now. I will be trying to get some good pictures of him and Ryan and the rest of the gang (grandparents, aunts, friends, etc) as I am able. So, keep checking in. I might surprise you and actually start posting on some regular schedule (well, doubtfull with the whole having a newborn baby thing, but the thought was nice!)
Later, Blogworld!
Later, Blogworld!
A Snowy Spring
This was the scene out my front door Easter weekend!!!
They both had a blast in the falling snow, building a snow mountain!
Something new...
Well, as a certain someone said, my blog needs some sprucing up. Since I'm too tired to try to figure out how to make Blogger work for me to get a new background, etc, I thought I'd share some pictures of Ryan. Not too original, but at least it's not preggie related, in case anyone's getting tired of all the preggie posting. :)
FUN AT THE PARK
Friday, April 06, 2007
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Brandon Update
There's not too much new going on around our place these days, but I thought I'd at least send out an update on how our Brandon is doing. Besides starting early at keeping mommy awake at night with his constant moving, he's growing like a weed!!! He's gaining around 14 oz. every two weeks. He's already 4lbs and 12 oz!!! We think he's going to be a big boy, bigger than his big brother at this rate!
I begin my twice per week monitoring next week. I'll be having sonograms and fetal monitoring each visit. Please remember me in prayer if you think of us. I'm already feeling tired most of the time these days, and the hour drive to get to the doctor is going to be difficult. Plus I have an active two year little boy to keep up with while strapped to a monitor! Fun times for sure, but exhausting for this pregnant mommy!
The doctors are still saying that May 3rd is the big day for this little guy to make his appearance!! That's five weeks away now. I'm getting a little nervous and a lot excited to get on with everything! I'm not exactly looking forward to the whole labor part of labor, but I am looking forward to meeting my little boy and bringing him home with us to start a new chapter in our lives. I know there's a lot of transition time in front of us, but I know it will all be a blessing in the end, even with the difficulties and sleepless nights!
Well, my Ryan is asking for something to eat, so I better go for now. Leave some comments if you have the time!!! I love hearing from everyone!
I begin my twice per week monitoring next week. I'll be having sonograms and fetal monitoring each visit. Please remember me in prayer if you think of us. I'm already feeling tired most of the time these days, and the hour drive to get to the doctor is going to be difficult. Plus I have an active two year little boy to keep up with while strapped to a monitor! Fun times for sure, but exhausting for this pregnant mommy!
The doctors are still saying that May 3rd is the big day for this little guy to make his appearance!! That's five weeks away now. I'm getting a little nervous and a lot excited to get on with everything! I'm not exactly looking forward to the whole labor part of labor, but I am looking forward to meeting my little boy and bringing him home with us to start a new chapter in our lives. I know there's a lot of transition time in front of us, but I know it will all be a blessing in the end, even with the difficulties and sleepless nights!
Well, my Ryan is asking for something to eat, so I better go for now. Leave some comments if you have the time!!! I love hearing from everyone!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
March 9, 2007
Here's another family picture I thought I would share with all of you. It was taken at the wedding this past Firday night. Ryan's making a funny face, but it's a good picture none the less!!!
I also wanted to send out congratulations to Steven and Nichole Jordan! They were married this past weekend! It's been a long anticipated union, and I was honored to be a small part of their special day!
Lots of love to you both!!!!
Memories and celebrations
I was going to post this a a couple weeks ago, but it's been so busy, I haven't had the chance to sit down to put anything new together for my blog!!!
I have had this blog now for a year. If anyone is interested, you can go back and read my first blog to understand the importance of this month for my husband and I and for our family. I don't know that I'll write anything new about our daughter, at least nothing too in depth. Please go back and read that first blog though...it will help you to see how the Lord has worked in our lives and how far we have come in the last four years.
Five years ago this past week, the Lord wrought a wondrous work in my life. He took me from the pit that I was in and placed my feet upon the Rock, Jesus Christ our Saviour!! I can never do or say enough to repay the "debt of love I owe!" I continue to be amazed at the love and mercy that God bestows upon me each moment of each day as He leads me down this path of life He's chosen for me.
I'm also celebrating another year of physical life this month!!! Over 26 years ago, my dad began praying for a daughter. I am God's answer to that prayer received long ago. It's amazing as I think about my life to this point...I am constantly reminded of God's sovereignty and providence in ordering every step that has led me to today!!! Seeing all the twists and turns of life that have lead me to my husband and to the life that we now lead together--it's a testament to God's hand in my life, to God's direction of even the minutest details of every life! I am blown away that the God of all the universe would be so interested in one, insignificant creature that He would orchestrate an entire lifetime of events to form what is and what will become my history!! How amazing His love is for me!
I have had this blog now for a year. If anyone is interested, you can go back and read my first blog to understand the importance of this month for my husband and I and for our family. I don't know that I'll write anything new about our daughter, at least nothing too in depth. Please go back and read that first blog though...it will help you to see how the Lord has worked in our lives and how far we have come in the last four years.
Five years ago this past week, the Lord wrought a wondrous work in my life. He took me from the pit that I was in and placed my feet upon the Rock, Jesus Christ our Saviour!! I can never do or say enough to repay the "debt of love I owe!" I continue to be amazed at the love and mercy that God bestows upon me each moment of each day as He leads me down this path of life He's chosen for me.
I'm also celebrating another year of physical life this month!!! Over 26 years ago, my dad began praying for a daughter. I am God's answer to that prayer received long ago. It's amazing as I think about my life to this point...I am constantly reminded of God's sovereignty and providence in ordering every step that has led me to today!!! Seeing all the twists and turns of life that have lead me to my husband and to the life that we now lead together--it's a testament to God's hand in my life, to God's direction of even the minutest details of every life! I am blown away that the God of all the universe would be so interested in one, insignificant creature that He would orchestrate an entire lifetime of events to form what is and what will become my history!! How amazing His love is for me!
Seven Months Pregnant
I thought everyone would enjoy an updated preggie picture. This was a week ago when we were in San Antonio for my cousin's wedding. This is my caption--Since I have no hips anymore, Ryan gets to ride around on top of Brandon! hehe
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Blessings
It's that time of year. The season is changing. The air is fresh and clean. There seems no end to the possibilities before us. February is almost past, and March is fast approaching. Already this year is speeding by!
I have been busy the past few weeks since my parents returned to the mission field. When my dad leaves, I handle anything that comes up on this end of all his business/financial "stuff." Normally, this hardly changes anything for me. Well, not so this time around!!! It's been a learning experience for me to juggle everything that's needed my attention. It's been fun though...fun to stay so busy, fun to be able to help my dad so much!
I've also been helping my hubby by running interference with the mortgage company and the real estate agents! YEP!!! We finally found a house that will work for us. I'm so excited! It's been nearly nine months since we sold our house, and I've been impatiently, patiently waiting for what the Lord would provide.
It still may be some time before we move because Brandon is due a month and a half after the closing date. I'm just not sure I'll be up to all that moving requires at that point! But we still have a comfortable place to live until we're absolutely ready to leave. I'm just so happy that I'll actually have a home to call my own again.
I've been struck lately by how very blessed I am!
The Lord has given me a wonderful husband who cares for me and our children. He provides for us and works so hard to give us what we need and so much more. He loves me so completely and is a wonderful father to our sons!
I have a beautiful little boy who is so precious to me and a constant reminder of God's grace in my life. He's not always easy to deal with, but the love I have for him is indescribable! His little declarations of love--"Mommy, I love you."--are so worth every time of trial and frustration! His hugs and kisses are constant blessings showered upon me.
And I have another baby on the way! This little boy inside of me is growing and moving and changing so much every day. It's amazing to see the changes in my body as Brandon develops. The Lord has so far blessed us with a healthy pregnancy. I've had my share of pregnancy woes, but really, I'm doing very well. I'm so thankful for the doctors that I have to take care of me and the husband I have to help and comfort me when the going gets rough. I've lost count of the back, leg and foot massages he's showered on me to relieve my aches and pains.
The Lord is just so good to me...and I am so undeserving! I find myself getting caught up in all the "what if's" and the "could be's" when I'm surrounded everyday by tokens of my Father's care and provision for me. How I want to learn to be a constantly thankful person! Thankful for all my physical blessings, my family and my home. Thankful for the life that the Lord has given me...physical and spiritual.
Well, blogworld, I have to sign off for now.
By the way, for all of you out there who noticed our lack of a middle name, we have finally settled! :) This new baby boy will be named after his Grandpa Horner. The Lord willing, Brandon Patrick Walker will join our family sometime the first weeks of May.
Thank you all for your friendship and your prayers and your love for my family and for me! Blessings!!!
I have been busy the past few weeks since my parents returned to the mission field. When my dad leaves, I handle anything that comes up on this end of all his business/financial "stuff." Normally, this hardly changes anything for me. Well, not so this time around!!! It's been a learning experience for me to juggle everything that's needed my attention. It's been fun though...fun to stay so busy, fun to be able to help my dad so much!
I've also been helping my hubby by running interference with the mortgage company and the real estate agents! YEP!!! We finally found a house that will work for us. I'm so excited! It's been nearly nine months since we sold our house, and I've been impatiently, patiently waiting for what the Lord would provide.
It still may be some time before we move because Brandon is due a month and a half after the closing date. I'm just not sure I'll be up to all that moving requires at that point! But we still have a comfortable place to live until we're absolutely ready to leave. I'm just so happy that I'll actually have a home to call my own again.
I've been struck lately by how very blessed I am!
The Lord has given me a wonderful husband who cares for me and our children. He provides for us and works so hard to give us what we need and so much more. He loves me so completely and is a wonderful father to our sons!
I have a beautiful little boy who is so precious to me and a constant reminder of God's grace in my life. He's not always easy to deal with, but the love I have for him is indescribable! His little declarations of love--"Mommy, I love you."--are so worth every time of trial and frustration! His hugs and kisses are constant blessings showered upon me.
And I have another baby on the way! This little boy inside of me is growing and moving and changing so much every day. It's amazing to see the changes in my body as Brandon develops. The Lord has so far blessed us with a healthy pregnancy. I've had my share of pregnancy woes, but really, I'm doing very well. I'm so thankful for the doctors that I have to take care of me and the husband I have to help and comfort me when the going gets rough. I've lost count of the back, leg and foot massages he's showered on me to relieve my aches and pains.
The Lord is just so good to me...and I am so undeserving! I find myself getting caught up in all the "what if's" and the "could be's" when I'm surrounded everyday by tokens of my Father's care and provision for me. How I want to learn to be a constantly thankful person! Thankful for all my physical blessings, my family and my home. Thankful for the life that the Lord has given me...physical and spiritual.
Well, blogworld, I have to sign off for now.
By the way, for all of you out there who noticed our lack of a middle name, we have finally settled! :) This new baby boy will be named after his Grandpa Horner. The Lord willing, Brandon Patrick Walker will join our family sometime the first weeks of May.
Thank you all for your friendship and your prayers and your love for my family and for me! Blessings!!!
Friday, February 02, 2007
Hungry, anyone??
Has anyone else been in a cooking/baking mode lately???? I certainly have!
As I've perused the blog world this past week, it seems like everyone out there is posting something about cooking or recipes or something!!! I've copied some amazing sounding recipes from Biblical Womanhood, Dawson's Delights and other blogs! Y'all should check them out!
I have been baking...fresh yeast cinnamon rolls, banana pudding made with homemade vanilla pudding, layered cherry chocolate cake...yum, yum!!
I've also been trying out some new chicken recipes. You see, chicken is about the cheapest meat I can get these days--that means, I have a freezer full of it. Everything from 10 lbs. of leg quarters to packages of chicken legs at $0.69/lb. Needless to say, I need some creative, but inexpensive, already-have-the-ingredients-in-the-house ideas!
This week, we've tried a new and yummy recipe for oven-fried chicken and a recipe for Chicken Tetrazzini that I changed up. It actually all came out really yummy!!!
So, all that to say this...
Here's the Oven-fried Chicken recipe. It's super simple and easy. Best of all, the ingredients are inexpensive; and normally, we all have them laying around the kitchen anyway!!!
OVEN-FRIED CHICKEN
Source: Better Homes and Gardens
Prep: 20 min
Bake:45 min
Ingredients--
1 egg, beaten
3 T. milk
1-1/4 cups crushed cornflakes or finely crushed rich round crackers (I made it with corn flakes.)
1 t. dried thyme, crushed
1/2 t. paprika
1/4 t. salt (honestly, it's chicken! M ore salt was needed, I thought)
1/8 t. pepper
I also added some Garlic powder to this mix because we enjoy that garlicky taste...your choice...add whatever seems good to you!
2 T. butter, melted
2-1/2 to 3 lbs meaty chicken pieces (breast halves, thighs and/or drumsticks)
Directions--
1. In a small bowl, combine egg and milk. For coating, in a shallow dish, combine cornflakes, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper and garlic powder; stir in melted butter. Set aside. Skin chicken. Dip chicken pieces, 1 at a time, into egg mixture; coat with crumb mixture.
2. In a greased 15x10x1 inch baking pan, arrange chicken, bone side down, so the pieces don't touch. Sprinkle the chicken with any remaining crumb mixture so they are generously coated.
3. Bake uncovered in a 375 degree F oven for 45 -55 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink. Do not turn chicken while baking. Makes 6 servings.
4. NOTE: To make your own tenders, simple cut 1-1/2 lbs of boneless, skinless, chicken breast halves lengthwise into 1-in strips.
5. Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken: Prepare as above, except omit thyme and salt and reduce the corn flakes to 1/2 cup. For coating, combine cornflakes, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 t. dried oregano, crushed, the paprika and pepper. Stir in melted butter. Continue as above.
6. Oven fried chicken breast tenders: Prepare as above, except substitute 1-1/2 lbs chicken tenders for meaty chicken pieces. Increase crushed cornflakes to 1-3/4 cups and place tenders in a single layer on baking pan. Do not turn tenders while baking.
I hope that you enjoy this as much as my family did! My husband is a fan of all those home-cooked, Southern style meals! Since I don't have a deep fryer, I've had to learn to pan fry and over fry chicken for him. This is definitely the best recipe for oven fried that I've tried yet! We enjoyed it with home-made mashed potatoes, green beans and steamed carrots.
Happy cooking everyone!
As I've perused the blog world this past week, it seems like everyone out there is posting something about cooking or recipes or something!!! I've copied some amazing sounding recipes from Biblical Womanhood, Dawson's Delights and other blogs! Y'all should check them out!
I have been baking...fresh yeast cinnamon rolls, banana pudding made with homemade vanilla pudding, layered cherry chocolate cake...yum, yum!!
I've also been trying out some new chicken recipes. You see, chicken is about the cheapest meat I can get these days--that means, I have a freezer full of it. Everything from 10 lbs. of leg quarters to packages of chicken legs at $0.69/lb. Needless to say, I need some creative, but inexpensive, already-have-the-ingredients-in-the-house ideas!
This week, we've tried a new and yummy recipe for oven-fried chicken and a recipe for Chicken Tetrazzini that I changed up. It actually all came out really yummy!!!
So, all that to say this...
Here's the Oven-fried Chicken recipe. It's super simple and easy. Best of all, the ingredients are inexpensive; and normally, we all have them laying around the kitchen anyway!!!
OVEN-FRIED CHICKEN
Source: Better Homes and Gardens
Prep: 20 min
Bake:45 min
Ingredients--
1 egg, beaten
3 T. milk
1-1/4 cups crushed cornflakes or finely crushed rich round crackers (I made it with corn flakes.)
1 t. dried thyme, crushed
1/2 t. paprika
1/4 t. salt (honestly, it's chicken! M ore salt was needed, I thought)
1/8 t. pepper
I also added some Garlic powder to this mix because we enjoy that garlicky taste...your choice...add whatever seems good to you!
2 T. butter, melted
2-1/2 to 3 lbs meaty chicken pieces (breast halves, thighs and/or drumsticks)
Directions--
1. In a small bowl, combine egg and milk. For coating, in a shallow dish, combine cornflakes, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper and garlic powder; stir in melted butter. Set aside. Skin chicken. Dip chicken pieces, 1 at a time, into egg mixture; coat with crumb mixture.
2. In a greased 15x10x1 inch baking pan, arrange chicken, bone side down, so the pieces don't touch. Sprinkle the chicken with any remaining crumb mixture so they are generously coated.
3. Bake uncovered in a 375 degree F oven for 45 -55 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink. Do not turn chicken while baking. Makes 6 servings.
4. NOTE: To make your own tenders, simple cut 1-1/2 lbs of boneless, skinless, chicken breast halves lengthwise into 1-in strips.
5. Oven-fried Parmesan Chicken: Prepare as above, except omit thyme and salt and reduce the corn flakes to 1/2 cup. For coating, combine cornflakes, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 t. dried oregano, crushed, the paprika and pepper. Stir in melted butter. Continue as above.
6. Oven fried chicken breast tenders: Prepare as above, except substitute 1-1/2 lbs chicken tenders for meaty chicken pieces. Increase crushed cornflakes to 1-3/4 cups and place tenders in a single layer on baking pan. Do not turn tenders while baking.
I hope that you enjoy this as much as my family did! My husband is a fan of all those home-cooked, Southern style meals! Since I don't have a deep fryer, I've had to learn to pan fry and over fry chicken for him. This is definitely the best recipe for oven fried that I've tried yet! We enjoyed it with home-made mashed potatoes, green beans and steamed carrots.
Happy cooking everyone!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
About the pictures
We were in San Antonio again this past weekend. We actually planned to be back home by Saturday evening, but we got a phone call letting us know that Erin, Steven's sister flew in for the weekend to surprise him!!! We only found out about an hour and a half before we had planned to leave!!! Anyway, all the pictures below are from her visit.
If I look tired, it's because I was!!!!
I had already had a long morning, with packing and making plans to meet up with my parents to tell them goodbye. By the time the pictures were taken, I had been in the car for most of the day, Ryan hadn't had any sort of good nap and it was really starting to show!!! Before the day was over, we were in the car for several more hours, Ryan still had no decent nap, and my preggy symptoms kicked in with a vengeance, leaving me with swollen feet and legs up to my knees! I was exhausted!
But, everyone else looks good, so just ignore the tired, pregnant lady! :)
If I look tired, it's because I was!!!!
I had already had a long morning, with packing and making plans to meet up with my parents to tell them goodbye. By the time the pictures were taken, I had been in the car for most of the day, Ryan hadn't had any sort of good nap and it was really starting to show!!! Before the day was over, we were in the car for several more hours, Ryan still had no decent nap, and my preggy symptoms kicked in with a vengeance, leaving me with swollen feet and legs up to my knees! I was exhausted!
But, everyone else looks good, so just ignore the tired, pregnant lady! :)
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Thursday, January 18, 2007
My journey through last year...
Through The Storms
I did not know His love before,
the way I know it now.
I could not see my need for Him,
my pride would not allow.
I had it all, without a care,
the "Self-sufficient" lie.
My path was smooth, my sea was still,
not a cloud was in my sky.
I thought I knew His love for me,
I thought I'd seen His grace,
I thought I did not need to grow,
I thought I'd found my place.
But then the way grew rough and dark,
the storm clouds quickly rolled;
The waves began to rock my ship,
my anchor would not hold.
The ship that I had built myself
was made of foolish pride.
It fell apart and left me bare,
with nowhere else to hide.
I had no strength or faith to face
the trials that lay ahead,
And so I simply prayed to Him
and bowed my weary head.
His loving arms enveloped me,
and then He helped me stand.
He said, "You still must face this storm,
but I will hold your hand."
So through the dark and lonely night
He guided me through pain.
I could not see the light of day
or when the storm might wane.
Yet through the aches and endless tears,
my faith began to grow.
I could not see it at the time,
but my light began to glow.
I saw God's love in brand new light,
His grace and mercy, too.
For only when all self was gone
could Jesus' love shine through.
It was not easy in the storm,
I sometimes wondered, "Why?"
At times I thought, "I can't go on."
I'd hurt, and doubt, and cry.
But Jesus never left my side,
He guided me each day.
Through pain and strife,through fire and flood,
He helped me all the way.
And now I see as never before
how great His love can be.
How in my weakness He is strong,
how Jesus cares for me!
He worked it all out for my good,
although the way was rough.
He only sent what I could bear,
and then He cried, "Enough!"
He raised His hand and said, "Be still!"
He made the storm clouds cease.
He opened up the gates of joy
and flooded me with peace.
I saw His face now clearer still,
I felt His presence strong,
I found anew His faithfulness,
He never did me wrong.
Now I know more storms will come,
but only for my good,
For pain and tears have helped me grow
as naught else ever could.
I still have so much more to learn
as Jesus works in me;
If in the storm I'll love Him more,
that's where I want to be!
~ Unknown Author ~
Monday, January 15, 2007
Realizations
We can say without any doubt that we are definitely having a boy.
I told Steven that I thought the baby was offended that mommy was still holding out some hope for a girl! He showed us nothing but that he was a BOY at this last sonogram-- definitely NOT a shy little boy! :o]
I realized some things the other night when I couldn't sleep (a regular occurence these days, it seems.)
First, my parents are leaving again in about two weeks. Time has flown by since they returned this time around! It's been good to have them home and I'll miss them like always.
Second, my best friend is marrying my cousin in less less than eight weeks. I'm supposed to be a bridesmaid...YIKESSSS!!!!! I have lots to do to get ready. My dress has to be made, shower plans have to be laid, gifts must be bought, etc, etc! Fun times indeed!!!
And last, but not least, the most important and shocking midnight realization--
THIS BABY WILL BE HERE IN LESS THAN 16 WEEKS!!!!!! WOW!!!!!!!!!!!
I hadn't really thought about that until this week. There's so much to do still and so much else going on around me! I was a little overwhelmed for a while, but I know everything will get done that needs to get done.
My parents will be coming home the weekend before I'm supposed to be induced. Pray for them. They'll get back on a Friday morning, drive here to Coleman that day, and try to get enough rest to see them through the birth and all the subsequent excitement and activity that will follow. My mom is committed to helping me those first couple weeks, and she will really need her rest to keep up with Ryan full time while I recover!
So much going on these days!!! It's fun to think about, but I know that I need to kick it into gear if I'm going to be remotely ready to have this baby come into our lives and into our home!
I told Steven that I thought the baby was offended that mommy was still holding out some hope for a girl! He showed us nothing but that he was a BOY at this last sonogram-- definitely NOT a shy little boy! :o]
I realized some things the other night when I couldn't sleep (a regular occurence these days, it seems.)
First, my parents are leaving again in about two weeks. Time has flown by since they returned this time around! It's been good to have them home and I'll miss them like always.
Second, my best friend is marrying my cousin in less less than eight weeks. I'm supposed to be a bridesmaid...YIKESSSS!!!!! I have lots to do to get ready. My dress has to be made, shower plans have to be laid, gifts must be bought, etc, etc! Fun times indeed!!!
And last, but not least, the most important and shocking midnight realization--
THIS BABY WILL BE HERE IN LESS THAN 16 WEEKS!!!!!! WOW!!!!!!!!!!!
I hadn't really thought about that until this week. There's so much to do still and so much else going on around me! I was a little overwhelmed for a while, but I know everything will get done that needs to get done.
My parents will be coming home the weekend before I'm supposed to be induced. Pray for them. They'll get back on a Friday morning, drive here to Coleman that day, and try to get enough rest to see them through the birth and all the subsequent excitement and activity that will follow. My mom is committed to helping me those first couple weeks, and she will really need her rest to keep up with Ryan full time while I recover!
So much going on these days!!! It's fun to think about, but I know that I need to kick it into gear if I'm going to be remotely ready to have this baby come into our lives and into our home!
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Welcome, Chad and Heather!
The Helwigs have finally joined the world of bloggers!! I have a link on my sidebar if anyone's interested in checking in on them!
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Thot I'd share...
Themes of God in the Books of the Bible
Old Testament :
In Genesis , He is the Creator God.
In Exodus, He is the Redeemer.
In Leviticus, He is your sanctification.
In Numbers, He is your guide.
In Deuteronomy, He is your teacher.
In Joshua, He is the mighty conqueror.
In Judges, He gives victory over enemies.
In Ruth, He is your kinsman, your lover, your redeemer.
In I Samuel, he is the root of Jesse;
In 2 Samuel, He is the Son of David.
In 1st and 2nd Kings, He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
In 1st and 2nd Chronicles, He is your intercessor and High Priest.
In Ezra, He is your temple, your house of worship.
In Nehemiah, He is your mighty wall, protecting you from your enemies.
In Esther, He stands in the gap to deliver you from your enemies.
In Job, He is the arbitrator who not only understands your struggles, but has the
power to do something about them.
In Psalms, He is your song-and your reason to sing.
In Proverbs, He is your wisdom, helping you make sense of life and live it successfully.
In Ecclesiastes, He is your purpose, delivering you from vanity.
In the Song of Solomon, He is your lover, your Rose of Sharon.
In Isaiah, He is the mighty counsellor, the Prince of peace, the Everlasting father, and more. In short, He's everything you need.
In Jeremiah, He is your balm of Gilead, the soothing salve for your sin-sick soul.
In Lamentations, He is the ever-faithful One upon whom you can depend.
In Ezekiel, He is your wheel in the middle of a wheel-the one who assures that dry, dead bones will come alive again.
In Daniel, He is the ancient of days, everlasting God who never runs out of time.
In Hosea, He is your faithful lover, always beckoning you to come back-even when you have abandoned Him.
In Joel, He is your refuge, keeping you safe in times of trouble.
In Amos, He is the husbandman, the one you can depend on to stay by your side.
In Obadiah, He is Lord of the Kingdom.
In Jonah, He is your salvation, bringing you back within His will.
In Micah, He is Judge of the nation.
In Nahum, He is the jealous God.
In Habakkuk, He is the Holy One.
In Zephaniah, He is the Witness.
In Haggai, He overthrows the enemies.
In Zechariah, He is Lord of Hosts.
In Malachi, He is the messenger God.
New Testament :
In Matthew, He is king of the Jews.
In Mark, He is the servant.
In Luke, He is the Son of Man, feeling what you feel.
In John, He is the Son of God.
In Acts, He is Saviour of the world.
In Romans, He is the righteousness of God.
In I Corinthians, He is the rock that followed Israel.
In II Corinthians, He is the triumphant one, giving victory.
In Galatians, He is your liberty; He sets you free.
In Ephesians, He is head of the Church.
In Philippians, He is your joy.
In Colossians, He is your completeness.
In I Thessalonians, He is your hope.
In II Thessalonians, He is your patience and discipline.
In I Timothy, He is your faith.
In II Timothy, He is your stability.
In Titus, He is the truth.
In Philemon, He is your benefactor.
In Hebrews, He is your perfection.
In James, He is the power behind your faith.
In I Peter, He is your example.
In II Peter, He is your purity.
In I John, He is your life.
In II John, He is your pattern.
In III John, He is your motivation.
In Jude, He is the foundation of your faith.
In Revelation, He is your coming King.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Baby Walker update-18 weeks
The doc says that little boy Walker is looking very good--weighs 10 oz. and is 8 in. long!
Both of my doctors believe I should follow the same check-ups as I had with Ryan, and they agree that I should be induced around 37 weeks. So, Lord willing, this little boy will come into the world during the first week of May. My due date is not until May 18th, but with my history, early induction brings us all some peace of mind.
I'll be having sonograms every four weeks until I'm 32 weeks. Then they'll increase to twice a week!!! I suppose the good thing about all that testing is that if there was a mistake today about the baby being a boy, we'll find out sooner rather than later! :)
It's been a long day, so I better run for now. Just wanted to give a little more info to all those interested readers out there!
Oh yeah, we'll get back to everyone about a name...maybe! :)
Both of my doctors believe I should follow the same check-ups as I had with Ryan, and they agree that I should be induced around 37 weeks. So, Lord willing, this little boy will come into the world during the first week of May. My due date is not until May 18th, but with my history, early induction brings us all some peace of mind.
I'll be having sonograms every four weeks until I'm 32 weeks. Then they'll increase to twice a week!!! I suppose the good thing about all that testing is that if there was a mistake today about the baby being a boy, we'll find out sooner rather than later! :)
It's been a long day, so I better run for now. Just wanted to give a little more info to all those interested readers out there!
Oh yeah, we'll get back to everyone about a name...maybe! :)
Friday, December 15, 2006
Our Christmas Plans
Well, it's that time of year!
Every store is lit up with lights and sounds of Christmas. Everyone is getting into the "spirit" of
the holidays.
While I don't truly view Christmas as a "Christian" holiday, but rather a time to spend with family and friends, I recognize that all over the world, Christians are celebrating Christ's birth during this time. I think it is a good reminder that our Creator humbled himself and became a man. Why? To make a way for men to be reconciled to a holy, righteous God! Any reminder of that sacrifice offered at God's feet on our behalf is a wonderful thing!!!
So, though the world has woefully lost the "true meaning" of this season, I do believe that Christians ought to take some time to relflect when we are surrounded by so many reminders of our Saviour's incarnation.
That's not to say that I don't enjoy the secular side of Christmas! I do enjoy giving gifts and having the holiday meal with all my family around as much as the next person! I even enjoy the holiday movies that are on every channel and the signs of Santa Clause! I love the music, the feelings, the lights, the joy of this season!
We will be enjoying lots of time with all our family this year. We will be giving simple gifts and enjoying the glee on the children's faces as they tear open those brightly wrapped packages!
All of these things go into why I love this time of year and why I think it's an important time to come aside and reflect on all the blessings in our lives. It's a time to see God's hand in each our lives and be thankful for all we've been given and seek to share some of our abundance with others!
Every store is lit up with lights and sounds of Christmas. Everyone is getting into the "spirit" of
the holidays.
While I don't truly view Christmas as a "Christian" holiday, but rather a time to spend with family and friends, I recognize that all over the world, Christians are celebrating Christ's birth during this time. I think it is a good reminder that our Creator humbled himself and became a man. Why? To make a way for men to be reconciled to a holy, righteous God! Any reminder of that sacrifice offered at God's feet on our behalf is a wonderful thing!!!
So, though the world has woefully lost the "true meaning" of this season, I do believe that Christians ought to take some time to relflect when we are surrounded by so many reminders of our Saviour's incarnation.
That's not to say that I don't enjoy the secular side of Christmas! I do enjoy giving gifts and having the holiday meal with all my family around as much as the next person! I even enjoy the holiday movies that are on every channel and the signs of Santa Clause! I love the music, the feelings, the lights, the joy of this season!
We will be enjoying lots of time with all our family this year. We will be giving simple gifts and enjoying the glee on the children's faces as they tear open those brightly wrapped packages!
All of these things go into why I love this time of year and why I think it's an important time to come aside and reflect on all the blessings in our lives. It's a time to see God's hand in each our lives and be thankful for all we've been given and seek to share some of our abundance with others!
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