Do you know whats going on a world away today?

Recently my youngest child has taken a mission trip overseas to India. 
                                                     This trip has changed all of our lives. 
We've say we've seen poverty, we've been on short term mission trips, we say we know there's a need, we say we have a heart for missions, BUT, I can say I really had no idea how hard life is for some. 
I've been ruined, broken, and can see that nothing else really matters. 
                                                      God is changing our hearts.  Things that I thought were so important a few months ago, really don't seem significant now.  Homes, cars, furniture, leisure time, hobbies, none of that matters so much right now, when I see and hear of the needs of those who struggle each day, those who don't know what it's like to have a full stomach, a blanket to warm themselves, or even a roof over their head. 
        I can't imagine never experiencing a hug, being held, kissed, talked to.  We've fallen in love with an amazing family in Sarahs Covenant Homes, a family that shares God's love with special needs orphans, a tough but rewarding life.  Please read of an experience Sarah shares on her blog.  Please consider giving to SCH, and definitely keep them all in your prayers.   Sarah, I do admire you and all of those who spend time giving love to those who have been thrown away and abandoned.  May God richly bless you!

http://sarahscovenanthomes.blogspot.com/2009/01/they-close-their-eyes-and-just-breathe.html

Plea from India re: orphans

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article1627008.ece

It's the time together that matters most

I really enjoy the holidays.   I like the food, the parties, all the sparkly things, the decorations, the hustle and bustle (ok not that so much).  My favorite thing by far is time spent with the people I love.  I am so fortunate to have both of my parents living, as well as my siblings, my children and grandchildren- I am so blessed. 
However, this causes a twinge in my heart.  I know it won't always be like this, because believe it or not, we all have a 100% chance of dying, unless of course, Jesus comes back and gets us before then:)  All of you who have lost someone near and dear to you, whether it be a recent loss, or a loss from years ago, my heart hurts for you and, you are in my prayers.  For those of us who don't fully grasp the urgency of spending time together, I pray that you will have the time to realize the blessing of family, so that you will not have regrets later in life.  We all have a life that we were blessed with, and we all have a God who was gracious enough to allow us to spend this life the way we choose, good or bad.  Please take time to prioritize the really important things in life, you'll find that the house, car, clothes, and sparkly things are wonderful, but, it's love of people that makes the world go 'round!

Many Blessings and Merry Christmas!

sneak a peek

Busy doesn't even begin to describe what we've been lately.  Being involved in the actual building of a home, is gratifying and exhausting.  Here's a little peek of some of our projects.  Please ignore the dust, smudges, unfinished things, and my Mr. Homemakers saggy britches- he's been working so hard, helping me make this wonderful house into a blessed homey home.  What do ya think???

my favorite light in the breakfast nook

sweet hubby working on our board and batten treatment

Michael Lindsay- excellent trim carpenter!

cool light waiting for an island to hang over:)

Tops by Cop- excellent people

God has blessed me with an amazing hubby

doesn't get any girlier than that

beautiful Bela Cera wood floors from Metro Flooring

Can't wait to show you this finished shower by Steve Kirk/Clint Thomas

getting ready for creamy white paint & dark stain

Dining room waiting on paint

Mudroom- can't wait to show you what my daddy made us!

mudroom

Tile by Steve Kirk/Clint Thomas.  LOVE IT!

I can't wait to finish, then you know what I'm gonna do???????????  I'm gonna take a nap and a long bubble bath under that girlie chandalier.  I'll share some new pictures soon- Have a blessed Christmas season dear friends.