Army Chaplains Wife

MilSpouse Friday Fill-In #50

2011-07-22T10:39:00.000-05:00

Do you eat raw cookie dough? Yes, but only the store kind, goofy enough eating the kind I make weirds me out... I mean I SAW the raw egg go in. But store bought cookie dough is delicious!
When you get online for the first time of the day… what site do you immediately head to? Sigh, I have a routine. In no particular order: Facebook, Gmail, Gmail Reader (check other blogs), and then possibly a google search.
What was your favorite pet as a child and why? Mandi - our cocker spaniel, she was the sweetest. Was there from the day I was born until 3rd grade.
If you had a snail that could magically grant wishes, what would you name it? Um. Snaily, yeah I'm horrible at naming things. Praise God for helping us name our son (and future children!)
How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop? Anytime I've ever had one I bite and never lick... really who has a patience? Maybe for when we pray for patience we could attempt this task... then we'd all get to the end bite and realize we still need Jesus! ;)

**I've missed a few with being out of town for my brothers wedding and just trying to get back into the swing of things... hoping to post soon, the Lord is doing amazing things on my heart recently -- He is so good.**

MilSpouse Friday Fill-in #46

2011-06-24T07:24:00.000-05:00

1. Are you a different person than you were five years ago? submitted by Sisterly Thoughts

Absolutely! 5 years ago, I had just stepped out of a lifestyle of partying and lots of drinking. I would say I probably have one of the most drastic changes in the past 5 years! Now I’m a lover of my Creator, a wife, and a momma too! How amazing is Jesus that He can completely restore and change one’s life. J

2. If you could go on Amazing Race, who would you take with you as your partner and why? submitted by Thoughts from a Poekitten

My husband! Then the world can see how marriages aren’t always perfect, but we have commitment like no other and we really love each other.

3. Does Facebook or Twitter actually bring more stress or good in to your life? submitted by Just an Arizona Girl

Depends on how you use it. Facebook can be SUCH a time killer, but it is a nice and easy way to stay in touch with the people you really care about

4. June is National Soul Food Month- what’s your soul food? submitted by NH Girl Displaced

Peanut Butter, does that count? I also have a love affair with cheese. I try to fast those on Tuesdays (our church does a corporate fast those days, and I can’t fully participate since I’m still breastfeeding).

5. If you could live in any other era than the current, which one would it be & why? submitted by Sugar in My Grits

Totally the 1950s. Life without an excessive of technology and such a strong focus on the family unit.

unPlanned finished

2011-06-21T22:20:00.000-05:00

I finished unPlanned in... 2 days! I haven't read a book that fast in a long while. I just couldn't put it down, I was so gripped by God moving in Abby Johnson's life and those on the "other side."

I strongly encourage both pro-life and pro-choice people to pick up this book: http://www.amazon.com/Unplanned-ebook/dp/B004GHNKQY/ref=pd_sim_kinc_5?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2

As a pro-life person, I was able to see where people were very seriously pro-choice were coming from -- a heart of wanting to help woman, many of which disagreed with abortions. It was very eye-opening. Another major point I took away was that God is moving. Sometimes, we hear how many abortions are occuring each day and you wonder "does God hear the cries of these innocent lives being slaughtered?" Not only does He hear and see it, He is working in lives for change. Our prayers for the end of abortion are NOT in vain, He hears them. He is moving. Let us continue to seek the throne of God and ask for an end to the abortion of innocent lives, no matter what the circumstances. AND also pray that there would be a movement of adoption to take in these babies!

Please check out this book - I cannot recommend it enough!

happy father's day.

2011-06-19T12:38:00.000-05:00

I'm so blessed to have father's in my life who love me. First, I have my own daddy, who has been my protector through my childhood (and even into my adult years in some ways!). Then, there is my wonderful husband who is celebrating his first Father's Day (actually enjoying a nice mid-morning nap as he readjusts to Mountain Time after being on the East Coast for almost a week!).

And then most importantly, there is my Abba, Daddy who created me, who knows me better than any other. When the world gets tough, I can cry out Abba! And He fills me with His prescences and peace. Comforts me like no other. On this Father's Day, let us not forget who was our Father first! And let's love on those earthly father's we do have! :)

Also, let's pray for those daddies that are deployed, away from home on mission, or those who have gone before us. Let's pray for their families as well. That they would all be comforted and rest in His presence.

Happy Father's Day!

keeping up.

2011-06-19T12:20:00.000-05:00

So how do you do it? Keep up with blogs? I love reading blogs, connecting with people, learning about others and their lives. I find inspiration, laughter, and even sadness. Often, if pushes me on to keep fighting the good fight. To continue what the Lord has started in me. BUT, how on earth do you keep up with so many awesome people without wasting your life before blogs instead of in front of His throne!

This is a sincere question. If you stop by once and awhile please leave a comment. Let me know how you find this balance. :)

MilSpouse Friday Fill-In #45

2011-06-17T08:51:00.000-05:00

1. Underwear Parties, how old is too old? submitted by Wookie & Co.

Never too old to sleep in your undies with your hunny! But really what is this?

2. What was your favorite class in high school? submitted by Adventures of M-Squared

Math, most definitely. I'm good at it and I love it.

3. Have you ever convinced packers/movers to pack something they aren’t supposed to for a PCS? submitted by Ground Control to Major Mom

We have only PCSed one time, so in the one move - I followed the rules to a T... although I could potentially see begging for them to pack something like cleaning products!

4. Blogging plays a growing roll in the media. If you were asked to embed as a blogger with a deployed military unit, would you go? What do you think your blog would be like? submitted by To the Nth

Yes, under these circumstances: It was pre-kids, I could stay with my hunny during deployment, and the hunny wouldn't worry about me. SO since none of that would realistically happen, I'm happy to blog from here. :)

5. Do you think kids should attend year-round school? submitted by Marrying the Navy

Learning should be year-round. Just because it's the summer and kids are attending school doesn't mean we stop looking for opportunities to learn!

Seventh Month

2011-06-15T15:04:00.002-05:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

I didn't realize I did this! I made a shutterfly account for my family to view pictures of the little man and I saw you could connect to Blogger, but it said it didn't work! Obviously, my error code was an error. Haha. Little man will be nine months on the 20th, but here are some family photos from a few months ago!

Miracles & Moments of Grace: Inspiring Stories from Military Chaplains.

2011-06-13T07:21:00.001-05:00

Check out this book with a collection of stories written by Chaplains!

I was blessed to be contacted and asked if I would review Miracles & Moments of Grace: Inspiring Stories from Military Chaplains. What an honor; I've never been chosen for something like this. I have slowly been working my way through the stories of God's grace and power. I really enjoy sitting down with my breakfast and reading one story.

Each story encourages me in their own unique way. There have been times in this ministry you wonder, "God are you moving? God do you see the need?" and these stories cut right to the Father's heart - I am moving, I do see, and I am here. What power! There were stories that brought me to tears; the reality of war, the reality of a living God! Lives transformed.

One of my favorite stories was about a soldier who prior to coming into the Army accepted the Lord on the floor of his apartment after struggling with a lifestyle full of drugs and alcohol. He joined the Army and found himself at "Fort Lost in the Woods" for boot camp (aka Ft. Leonard Wood, MO). The Chaplain there shared the gospel at two o'clock in the morning with this soldier and handed him a camo covered Bible. This same Chaplain poured into this soldier's life by "needing" a couple guys to stick around to help clean up chapel. Then one day the soldier was baptized by this same Chaplain! The Chapter is a letter from the soldier to this boot camp Chaplain. It expresses how they never saw one another after those grueling days at boot camp, the solider never forget his first Chaplain. Over time, this soldier always was sharing his faith and the story of that first Chaplain. And now this soldier is serving in the Army as a Chaplain!

I know a lot of readers stumble across my blog in search of what is the life of an Army Chaplain's wife like? What is the process to become a Chaplain, etc. Therefore, I encourage these group of people to read this book. It may not give you the life of a spouse, but it certainly shows those families praying for God's direction a glimpse of what our military Chaplains are encountering.

Here is a link to the Amazon site (I do love Amazon!) to purchase this book! http://www.amazon.com/Miracles-Moments-Grace-Inspiring-Chaplains/dp/0891122699 Or you can use my other favorite internet tool (Google!) and search for it from another seller.

free.

2011-06-12T11:32:00.000-05:00

The other night I walked on our sidewalk barefoot. It was such an amazing feeling. What is it about being barefoot that is so freeing?

I felt like a child again running around playing outside. So I encourage you that now it's warming up in the rest of the country (Oh Colorado and you're short summer!) take off those shoes, flip flops, socks, boots or whatever is covering those toes and walk around barefoot!

unPlanned

2011-06-11T15:53:00.000-05:00

I'm planning on reading this book in the upcoming week:

http://www.amazon.com/Unplanned-ebook/dp/B004GHNKQY/ref=pd_sim_kinc_5?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2

It's only $2.99 on Amazon Kindle! Here is a summary taken from Amazon.com:
"Abby Johnson quit her job in October 2009. That simple act became a national news story because Abby was the director of a Planned Parenthood clinic in Texas who, after participating in her first actual abortion procedure, walked across the road to join the Coalition for Life.
Unplanned is a heartstopping personal drama of life-and-death encounters, a courtroom battle, and spiritual transformation that speaks hope and compassion into the political controversy that surrounds this issue. Telling Abby’s story from both sides of the abortion clinic property line, this book is a must-read for anyone who cares about the life versus rights debate and helping women who face crisis pregnancies."

MilSpouse Friday Fill-in #44

2011-06-11T09:45:00.001-05:00

I found a little weekly thing to become involved in. Not sure how often I will participate OR if I'll actually complete it on Friday (especially considering today is Saturday!) but here it goes!

1. When you vacation what type of vacation do you like to take (beach, historic, adventurous, food oriented, etc.)? submitted by Megan Dub-Yuh
    I love a vacation that revolves around being around family. We have a trip planned in December to head to the beach with my side of the family and then some time with hubby's side in Texas. I'm so looking forward to both parts of this trip. Relaxing on the beach then relaxing near the lake!

2. What is your best memory associated with a song (you know we all have tons!) submitted by Ramblings of a Marine Wife
    Well the first thing that came to my mind (hello mommy brain!) is the veggie tales theme song. Yeah, you know the song... "If you like to talk to tomatoes...." because everytime it comes on my son lights up. He loves those familiar songs. As in last night he was laughing and smiling while I sang "Jesus loves me" Such a joy

3. If you had six months with no obligations or financial constraints, what would you do with your time? submitted by Married to the Army
   Oh, then we'd travel! We'd head to tourist destinations: Australia, New Zealand, Grecian Islands, Europe, oh geez just anywhere.   And additionally, I'd like to spend time in some third-world countries giving our time and unending money. Then we'd round out our travelings and just walk around and bless families in our community. So it'd be a great big vacation/mission trip!

4. What is one thing about you that people do NOT typically notice at first that you wish they would? submitted by Our Motto is Patience
   That I love to learn about people, I love to know what's really bothering people and not just the surface level stuff. To better answer the question, I wish people would notice that I'm willing to listen and be there for them even though we may have just met. I love sharing our lives!

5. …. submitted by The Three Turners: It’s a summer of sequels, and if you had to live in one of each of the following “worlds” (there are three total) which would you choose and why?
–X-Men: Be a Mutant, what would your power be? So I googled the xmen... apparently there are tons of them. Therefore, I have no idea which I would choose.
–Harry Potter: Be a Witch or Muggle? Muggle. That's a person right?
–Twilight: Be a Vampire or Werewolf? I can't really say I'd like to be either. I haven't read or seen twilight; I know people rave about it, but just never been my type of reading. I mean eat blood or be hairy... no thanks! ;)

Memorial Day.

2011-05-31T09:01:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a restful and reflective Memorial Day this year. It is most important to pause and reflect on those soldiers that did not come home from war. I spent a lot of time thinking about Ch (Capt) Dale Goetz who gave his life 31 Aug 2010. His sweet wife and three boys are in our prayers as they continue to mourn the loss of their husband and daddy. Also, we mourn with them as not only an amazing Chaplain in the Army but an outstanding man of God. I ask that you continue to pray for his ministry he left on this earth. 300 saved and 10 into the ministry... and that the numbers would continue to grow exponentially due to Dale's willingness to serve and sacrifices For God and For Country.

break.

2011-05-25T14:47:00.000-05:00

My prayer these next few weeks.... Lord. Break my heart for what breaks Yours.

commissary.

2011-05-22T08:22:00.003-05:00

Okay, the commissary. I can't remember if I have talked about the commissary yet or not, but I felt I needed to share.

Confession ALERT! I hadn't been to the commissary in over a year! gasp!

Last time I went to the commissary I just remember thinking "I'm never coming back!" It was insanely crowded, the lines were long, I didn't know where anything was, and oh yeah I was pregnant.

After chatting with my neighbor and her saying the best meat prices are at the commissary and also after seeing some great deals someone else blogged about... well, it was time to go back -. In my mind I was picturing a horrible event (especially since as I drove there it began to rain).

However, just the opposite. Not very crowded, friendly people, and no lines. Really, what had I been so afraid of? This was nicer than WalMart! As I drove home, happy with my purchases (90 cents for Cheez-Nips!) I reflected on why I had stayed so far from the commissary all this time.

Oh right - I was pregnant... I was one sick pregnant lady. Oh we went after chapel on a Sunday. We may have even gone near the 1st or the 15th (paydays = insanely crowded, sold out products, etc.).

So to sum up this short blog. I will be going back to the commissary. I am not longer pregnant (just a cute little 8 month old to tote with me). I will not go to the commissary around the 1st, 15th, or around the time soldiers are getting off work. I will bring my coupons! :)

Happy shopping!

tears.

2011-05-19T08:50:00.002-05:00

Well, I was going to blog about the commissary, but I have am just so stirred up I have to write about other things....

Recently it feels as though my friends are going through some tough and very serious things. I praise God for His goodness and that I know He is right there with all of them giving them exactly what they need during these times. My sensitive spirit is so grieved. A baby boy who can't eat and has to be fed through a feeding tube, a toddler with inoperable brain tumor causing seizures, a friend find out her pregnancy is molar, then of course the friend who just had a baby and her husband will be leaving for deployment in less than a week, and the many other spouses at home while their loved one is far away in danger. Recently, someone posted on facebook the lost of a soldier from their unit.

My heart breaks over and over again. Sadness overwhelms me. What Lord do I do with this heavy heart? I'm going to carve out sometime during baby boy's afternoon nap to just pray and intercede for these families. I encourage you to also pray for them. Even though you don't know them or their names, God knows and hears the cries of His people.

Another fact about what was written above is that ALL of these families are military.

Also, this week, within our community we recently had a neighbor (who I actually don't know, but it happened nearby) shot his wife, and killed his child and himself. I was so upset by this and what was harder was my husband wasn't there to comfort me. Again, a heavy heart. One filled with sorrow. God let me see your goodness! I know you are good, I know you reign!

bench moment.

2011-05-17T16:01:00.004-05:00

I usually blog in my head, not on an actually blog. But today I decided (thanks to nap time) I would share my "blog" from yesterday. Although, as I click new post my first thought was "God I'm so glad you are not like my faithfulness to my actual blog." Okay, I found myself humorous.

Hub's has been in the field for almost 2 weeks. I had the joy of having my mom here the first week (which of course meant we had to tackle a large project), this time it was redoing our living room. I was going stir crazy in our tiny living room with large furniture... well I'll leave it like that since hubby doesn't know the end results (although, I know he isn't checking blogs from the field!). I love my living room now, I pray it leads to sweet fellowship for our family, having people over on a more regular basis, and I have to say I already love reading on our new couch!

Okay, that's not why I got on here to blog. Yet, my new living room arrangement rocks. After a lay day after working a few hours in the morning, the babe and I headed out for a walk. We did a nice loop through the neighborhoods and went to my favorite place to sit when Daddy is gone. Also know as the bench in our neighborhood with a view of Pike's Peak. It was beautiful. Still white with snow, the sun was shining so brightly, the weather was just right (not insanely windy like it can be here in CO), and the little man was sleeping ever so sweetly. Two thoughts came to my head:

1. God's creation before my eyes.
I gazed upon the beauty of the works of His hands. It's always there right in front of me. The majestic view of Pikes Peak. The sweet sounds of my breathing baby. With His words the mountain responded. With His words He spoke life into my son. I just sat there glancing from one beautiful work to another, then back again. How could I not fall more in love with my own Maker? The one who stretched out His hand into time and created such beauty, such strength, such innocence. Oh God, let me look for those moments to sit and enjoy You. To enjoy the gifts you display for all to see.

2. Everything was just as it should be in that moment.
I wrote this earlier in my post and decided it needed it's own thought. I actually didn't think this while sitting on the bench, but more so after. I thought maybe should I explain, yes it would be awesome if my husband was there - don't want readers to think I was so glad my husband wasn't there, but honestly he wasn't suppose to be there. He is in the field with his soldiers. That is where he is suppose to be. I love my husband dearly. And I miss him so very much, but we are called here to the beautiful state of Colorado with a mission in mind. And in this I am fulfilled. Everything in my bench moment was just as it should be. Hopefully in the next day or so hubby and I can experience this together!

seeds.

2011-04-04T10:33:00.003-05:00

Nope, this is not about planting something in a garden... I sure wish I had a green thumb or the room to plant a little garden... but this is about God planting a seed in my heart.

Recently, I have been more aware of how the Lord speaks to me. He plants these little seeds in my heart. These little whispers to my inner-man I realize get my brain going! I have been wrestling with some things, in my own strength trying to make it work, contemplating what all these thoughts mean... driving myself almost insane (okay a little dramatic!). It's as if I have been getting little puzzle pieces, but I can't find the glorious corner piece, only finding the sporadic edge piece and bunch of middle pieces that of course don't connect. Then, just like that the Holy Spirit breathes life into it. The puzzle is put together perfectly. It all makes sense. The seed blooms, the flower flourishes, and I'm finally equipped to birth what He started in me. To take action. For His glory!

My prayer is to continue what He has begun in me and continues to refine in me. Also, that He would breath life into the seeds He plants within you!

Chaplaincy.

2011-04-01T11:22:00.002-05:00

I found this on a fellow Army Chaplain's Wife blog (Real Life Army Wife) and thought I'd like to share this too. To hear more about the Chaplaincy. May God bless you on your walk with Him!

Reggae no Prayer Room do IHOP-KC

2011-03-29T12:02:00.001-05:00

not sure if this will work - found this on YouTube, not the same set BUT same people and pretty similar music. :)

rock out session.

2011-03-29T11:58:00.003-05:00

Here is the session from IHOP I was talking about in my last post -- so enjoy! Dance before Him because He is SO WORTHY!

http://mediasuite.multicastmedia.com/player.php?v=ua94g5a5

Sorry don't know how to embed this but it will take you to the IHOP prayer room archive. :)
**Find this couple on YouTube, so the file above is very similar - love it.

a restless heart.. released.

2011-03-25T22:53:00.002-05:00

Ever have that unshakenable restless feeling? I am realizing I have had this sitting in my spirit for a few days, where nothing is satisfying me. I have by now probably picked up 4-5 books trying to settle into them and I just feel more agitated. I had to get out of my bed to come to our office in a search of why I'm overwhelming restless. Turning on IHOP's prayer room to help ushering in the presence of the God, to feel that community, to defeat the lies that I'm alone in this search for His heart... I was surprised, no shocked to hear the rhythm of reggie music. Did I click on the right link? Was these sweet melodies really coming out of IHOP?

I sat in my shock for a few minutes. Spirit urging the flesh to dance. The flesh resisting in embarassment, in disbelief that dancing could release a restless heart. Oh flesh. Oh my inner man. The daily battles I face. Dance, sit, maybe pray, try to read again, DANCE.

Dance I did. Now, I am a 6 ft not so coordinated woman... so it may not have been pretty at first. But obidence was the most beautiful thing in those first moments. Freedom lifted within my spirit. Ah to dance as a child before him. As the music continued, my embarassment of my lanky self lifted and then the work-out before Him began. What release. What freedom to be completely abandon myself before him. To fully give my whole body in dance to Him because beloved HE IS WORTHY. It continued, I become more coordinated... okay maybe not to the outsider but my movements felt more fluid. Let me praise Him with all that I am. Glory to Him!

Dancing turned to sweet prayers, sweet worship, sweet time. Oh sweet King Jesus. Let me live my life before you. Let me not be caught sleeping, let my lamp continue to burn, thank you for the overpouring of oil for my lamp to burn for you. A refreshed spirit, a new breath, new life. Birth in me the dreams you have for me. Let me shout for You. Let me live unashamed before you. I don't want to be a status quo... break me Lord. Let your glory shine. Let eternity be my mind's focus. Oh to worship you unashamedly!

our Father

2011-02-28T15:31:00.002-06:00

So currently, I'm doing a study on the different names of God at PWOC. First, I want to say it's been a joy to get back into PWOC. I'm still meeting people (seems like there is a whole new group since last time I went), but it is always nice to get together with other women and learn more about our Creator.

The study talked about God as our provider. He provided the ram stuck in the bushes when Abraham obidently took Isaac up to Mt Moriah. Although I had read this many times, I never made this connection. Abraham was taking his only son up to the altar to be sacrificed. Right there, we feel how his heart ache as the ascend up the mountain... about to loose his only son by his own hands - what was God doing? And in that moment you feel the Father's heart towards His son Jesus. Yet, in the story of Abraham there is the ram in the bush (the provision), but in the end Jesus is the the sacrifice on the cross for our sins. Our provision for eternal life.

Further in the reading it pointed out that on Mt. Moriah is where Solomon built the temple where all future sacrifices were made. I found that incredibly interesting. And ultimately Jesus died on the cross on Mt. Calvery.

I just wanted to share this little tidbit I found so touching. I love when the Father's heart is revealed to me. How His heart ached, how we see that He was hurting when Jesus went to the cross, how He must have wept. Oh God continue to reveal the Father's heart to us.

i'm still alive!

2010-12-17T15:35:00.003-06:00

So much has changed in the last three months! I can't believe Aiden will be 3 months old on the 20th! He is growing so fast; he is now 15 lbs, holding his head up very well, making all sorts of baby noises, and even starting to teeth. Children really are a blessing!

As for me, I started working 10 hours a week as a special education teacher for an online school, meaning I work from home. I started when Aiden was about a month old (thankfully my mom was here for a majority of the time because I worked well more than 10 hours a week in tat first month!). But, things have settled down and I LOVE IT!

And the Chaplain has also been super busy with his new battalion. He is really enjoying his new coworkers (even though some of them will be PCSing in the new year). Also, he set up an angel tree to bless the lower enlisted families - it was a huge hit! We also enjoyed going and buying toys and can't wait until Aiden is a little older to buy fun toys for us... I mean him!

All is well with us! :) I just pray you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

other chaplain blogs.

2010-10-12T12:15:00.003-05:00

Top Chaplain's Blogs: http://onlinechristiancolleges.org/top-25-chaplain-bloggers/

Recently, I was emailed with a list put together of different Chaplain's and spouse's blogs. I figured I would pass it on since many people find my site in their own journey into the Chaplain world. These additional sites can provide other viewpoints and information on what it is like to be a Chaplain or a spouse of a Chaplain. Hope this site is useful! :) Oh, and I'm tickled I made the list. I love talking to others about the adventures we have been on.

** Also, if you have a blog related to the Chaplaincy leave a comment with your blog web address! **

As for us on the home front -- we are doing well. The first few weeks were hazy, but he is now 3 weeks and we are definitely functioning. Our last bit of company comes tomorrow and then after that I'm looking forward to some time as a family of 3. Unfortunately, that will be short lived because Aron will be heading to Sam Houston for 2 weeks to do some training related to trama and being a Chaplain, honestly I need to ask him more questions about what exactly he is doing. We will miss him in that time -- it'll be our first time apart with Aiden here. I won't be alone though, my mom is coming out to spend time with us and help out. The time with her will be fun!

Alright, a quick blog because someone is hungry! :)

he is here!

2010-09-26T15:56:00.002-05:00

Aiden was born September 20, 2010 at 0540 on his Uncle's 21st birthday!
We are overjoyed and are falling more and more in love with this little bundle of joy.

haven't I given You control?

2010-09-17T09:36:00.002-05:00

No baby. 8 days after the due date, baby still comfortably content in the womb. Aron still finds it hilarious to call him my wombmate... I'm starting to find it a cruel joke. Ha. No in all seriousness keeping this little man way longer than originally anticipated (everyone said you go 2 weeks early in the springs -- so in my mind I'm 3 weeks late) has put into light my own patience and lack of control.

There is nothing I can do to make this baby come any sooner. Sure we can try all the tips in the book (believe me I have - just got back from a lengthy walk!), but this kiddo will come when it is appointed for him to come. Well, and if not there is an appointed date for him to come via induction this Sunday, which I have complete peace about since the midwife I've been blessed to see this entire pregnancy (a not so common thing with Army medical services) will be on call that night. Therefore, any fears related to induction can be calmed by knowing she is making the calls about what needs to be done. Okay, back on track - out of my control. Three weeks mentally of thinking this little guy is going to come really emotionally drained me. It was the moment I gave up and realized there is nothing I can say or do that is going to change the status of my pregnant body! It became so freeing to just once again surrender my control to the Lord.

Prayers would be appreciated for our family as we approach labor and delivery. If it doesn't happen in the next few days I'll be facing induction this Sunday, so prayers for that as well. I'm being open minded and realizing that either way it is in God's hand. And I'm praying for the Lord to give midwives, nurses, etc supernatural wisdom while assisting me with this delivery!

Thank you so much! :)

conversation with God.

2010-08-30T11:43:00.002-05:00

Last night, hubby and I laid in bed and prayed for the upcoming week. It has sort of become a Sunday night thing as we focus our attention on what needs to be done and what challenges we may encounter. Anyways, last night I experienced something new. Usually I find myself praying to God... a distant God who I know hears my small voice, but distant none-the-less.

While praying last night, I visioned my hubby, myself and God sitting around a table. The mood was calming. But this time as we spoke to our Creator I saw Him listening. Nodding His head in acknowledgment of our concerns. A reassuring smile. Hands folded as to take us very seriously. Compassionate eyes. Oh to sit and talk to Him again. I needed this. I needed to know that He is right there. Oh to engage with Him in such a real way can only increase my faith! Praise Him for His tenderness to reach out from heaven and touch my weak heart... to give it the boost that it desperately needs every once in awhile. We sang it at church "Our God is an Awesome God..." but ah He really is just awesome.

In other news I am 38 weeks and 4 days pregnant. Not that I'm counting too closely.... We are both ready for our little man to come into this world! Due date lingers at Sept 9th, but I'm still hoping for an early if not ON TIME arrival. Although, I'm realistic that Aiden will arrive ON TIME according to when the Lord needs him here. "For such a time (whenever this will be) is this..." that Aiden will be born. Praise God! :)

little lesson.

2010-08-04T21:24:00.002-05:00

The other night a storm rolled in; some thunder, lightning, and as most Colorado storms a little hail. Nothing too big, but enough to scare our cocker spaniel. Poor thing gets so scared at the sound of thunder. She literally clings to me and must be at my heels more so during a storm than normal; it's sweet.

When I stepped out of the kitchen she lingered a little and I turned back to check on her... she looked up at me with these huge eyes filled with fear -- it felt like she was saying "I'm so scared I don't know what to do, please help." Instantly I thought about God. Often in the middle of a storm in life do I gaze my eyes up to Him and cry out for help. I know He will help me, I know He will give me the comfort and peace I need, the reassurance that He holds me in the palm of His hand. And in that moment as I looked into my sweet puppy dog's face I felt like I understood His heart. The tenderness I felt towards her, the compassion, the urge to somehow make those thunder clouds move along, oh how my heart yearned to help. It was love. And in this small moment in my small life I understood that God looks upon me this way. Even when I don't turn to Him in a time of need He still yearns to be my rescuer. I love how He speaks to my heart through daily life; how even though I fall so short in so many ways He STILL pursues me by grabbing hold of my attention and saying "Lauren, I love you."

I pray that we can all encounter these moments of simply receiving and for a moment comprehending how deeply He loves us.

Dress Blues Shoulder Boards - gone.

2010-07-16T14:59:00.004-05:00

**UPDATE: shoulder boards have been mailed off - BUT If I come across other 1LT gear I'll be sure to let you all know!** :)

Okay, so I just HATE to throw away something that is perfectly good especially when I KNOW there is someone out there that could use it.

My prelude is to say we have Chaplain 1st LT Shoulder Boards (hubs say it cost around $40) that hubby no longer needs. Some of you out there may not have purchased the costly dress blue uniforms yet and this will be an accessory you'll need! EMAIL ME at simplylauren07@gmail.com if you need these! I will mail them to you!!

We would like to bless a family entering the Army Chaplaincy!

draw me away.

2010-07-03T09:58:00.002-05:00

So we've been on vacation for about 2 weeks now, heading home after the fourth. It's been wonderful having a break from the daily routines of life and even more wonderful is spending time with our families.

I wanted to quick blog not about the amazing times we are having with family but how I have been feeling this tug on my heart. This song kept coming to my mind "Draw me away, for I long for it to be me and You." It's off a limited edition IHOP CD that was have, so I don't know if I'll be able to find it on youtube. Anyways, this song played over and over in my head and sincerely just felt the Lord calling me to draw away with Him. I could just feel like He was saying I love you and I miss you, come be with me.

What a beautiful feeling. So majestic that He was speaking to my heart in a way that I knew it was Him and He was showing me how much He desires to be with me. Ah. Simple sweetness breathed upon my soul.

I encourage all of us to listen for the voice of the Lord drawing us away from all of life's distractions to just sit in His presences and know he is God.

memorial service.

2010-06-16T18:35:00.004-05:00

Today I attended my first memorial service for two soldiers. Both passed over memorial day weekend in separate car accidents. One of these soldiers was from my husband's battalion; therefore, he played a role in the ceremony.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect; I knew certain parts that would take place, yet I had never experienced it. My wonderful husband opened up the service, followed by the national anthem and he then spoke a prayer that brought hope. Company commanders and soldiers each gave a glimpse of the life of each soldier. It all brought such honor to the soldiers that served their country with pride and with a love for their country. Additionally, a message was given by the other chaplain and benediction. Bagpipes then played Amazing Grace and then last roll call was done. That was emotional, I struggled to keep it together. If you are not sure what the last roll call is, it is basically roll call, a few soldiers are called and respond "present First Sgt" and then the soldier who has passed name would be called in this manner: "SSG Last Name [pause], SSG First and Last Name [pause], SSG First, Middle, and Last Name." The silence drives home the loss of this soldier; it's very moving to the sacrifices that have been given by these soldiers. Then Military Honors are done (3 blank shots are fired) and taps is played immediately after. Finally, soldiers are able to pay their final respects by saluting the memorial that has been set up in their honor.

I was impressed at how a memorial service brought such honor to the soldiers that are no longer with us.

not deploying.

2010-06-09T12:51:00.002-05:00

I know many of my post have been leading up to a deployment; but the Lord has worked a miracle and my hubby will not be deploying this summer. He is being moved to a unit that returned about a month ago, so he will be encountering soldiers that have been away for a year. It will bring new challenges, but we are both praising the Lord that Aron will be here for the birth of his son.

At the same time, I keep wondering why us? We tend to think that in those moments of hopelessness and desperation; as in why is this happening to us? But this time it feels like such a huge blessing (especially when we know others deploying or are deployed or have been deployed...). Why us God? This gift is at times difficult to receive without feeling guilty that we are so bless to not have to endure a deployment at this time. It is really forcing me to receive His love.

I pray that today God would meet you and pour out His love for you in a way that speaks to your heart. And that in those moments you would open your heart and receive it.

Blessings!

100th post!

2010-05-31T09:43:00.002-05:00

Happy Memorial Day! Two years ago today we were spending this holiday with dear friends of ours. I remember him praying over our food and for the soldiers both who have gone before us and who are still fighting. It moved me. I was honored to be standing with this family who had endured multiple deployments and still stood as a strong family. At that time we didn't know what the future held for us in the Army. Now, two years later, we are in full swing of Army life. Even with living off-post we are surrounded by an Army community. It has been an amazing journey and I couldn't see us anywhere else.

First, I just want to thank that Lord for men and women stepping up to serve our country with a "no matter the cost" attitude. And a large cost freedom comes with. Lord, I pray you comfort those who have lost loved ones throughout the years, I pray you bring peace to those who's loved ones are currently overseas fighting, and Lord I pray a supernatural protection over all our men and women fighting. Thank you to all our veterans! Second, I want to praise the Lord that He sent Jesus to fight the good fight for us. That He came and defeated the grave, so that we may experience freedom in Christ and eternal life with Him. With that, I pray God you would move in the hearts of soldiers; open their eyes to the truth of Your beauty, love, and grace. God, that soldiers would come to know you and receive true freedom.

May you all have a blessed Memorial Day! And on this honorable day I write my 100th post! :)

roots.

2010-05-27T10:16:00.002-05:00

I had a great conversation with a friend yesterday about how the enemy plants these seeds, which then grow into roots... basically lies that we believe as truth. These roots then sprout out weeds in our gardens and slowly they take over the beauty of what God has planted. Only through the Holy Spirit can these nasty weeds and roots be uprooted and replaced with what is truth.

My friend encouraged me to sit down with the Lord and allow Him to bring about anything to my attention. While waiting I remembered a day in first grade when some peers told me I couldn't be a princesses with them because I wasn't a princess. Sounds so silly, right? So, I'm sitting there thinking well this is so silly of course I'm not a princess I'm 25 years old! And I'm asking the Holy Spirit to reveal the lie here and finally He speaks that this is the lie... Ha! The lie is that I'm walking around believing I'm not good enough to be a princess. Then, I have to ask well then what's the truth. He speaks - not only are you a princess, but you are a princess in the King's kingdom.

It was such a simple revelation. If God says I'm a princess in His kingdom, then what I was told as a first grader is not true. Even writing this it seems sort of silly, but that's just the enemy working on making me going back to believing the lie.

So, today I encourage you. Sit down with the Lord and ask Him to reveal to you deep rooted lies you believe that are preventing you from fully experience the Lord. :)

not my own.

2010-05-25T09:28:00.003-05:00

As a forewarning - this is a pregnancy blog today!

Last summer we experienced an ectopic pregnancy, which obviously did not last. From there I really began to understand how much a child is a gift; He is ultimately in control of life. During that time I began to see how many woman over and over stood barren before the Lord in the Bible. What did they do? They cried out for years - think about Sarah! Her years of pain waiting and not until she was well into her old age was her womb opened. So, last year I began handing the situation to God - He is the giver of life. We had settled on waiting on the Lord for His timing and being open to adoption as the answer to becoming parents (we still hope to adopt one day!).

All of this is to prelude my real thoughts this morning. Pregnancy can be a bit nerve wracking, you have no control over what will happen. You can do all the right things and life doesn't happen. Therefore, from early on and that positive pregnancy test I gave this child to the Lord. It feels like a Hannah/Samuel moment to me. Aron and I are entrusted with this child to raise him according to the truths of the Gospel. 1 Samuel 1:26-28: "And she said, “Oh, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who was standing here in your presence, praying to the Lord. For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition that I made to him. Therefore I have lent him to the Lord. As long as he lives, he is lent to the Lord.” Our one goal is Proverbs 22:6 "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."

On this same note, I don't want our children to consume my life. Yes, I will sacrifice tons in order to raise them and teach them, BUT they will not be my life. With these commitments I feel the conviction of the Lord that I need to be more consumed by HIM; therefore, my joy is in the Lord not my children. Same goes with other aspects of life; careers, social status, materialistic things, education, you name it.

So here I am transparent once again.

IT'S A BOY!

2010-05-10T18:10:00.002-05:00

There is our little boy sucking his thumb! Due date is September 9th!

Swagbucks.

2010-05-06T14:01:00.002-05:00

Are you using Swagbucks yets? If not, I cannot recommend it enough. Already we have won $10 in Amazon gift cards, which we used to purchase a Dave Ramsey book. How exciting!

I just wanted to share because if you are like me you are constantly "googling" items, which is what Swagbucks is (a search engine). But with Swagbucks you earn points that can eventually be redeemed for different prizes; my favorite being the $5 Amazon gift card. At times then run specials, such as for any new person to sign up and enters the code SWAGNATION5 through Friday at 1 PM will get an additional 50 points! So go to Swagbucks and sign up now and start winning for searching!

**And tonight we will find out if baby is a boy or girl!! yay!!!**

pregnancy.

2010-04-25T20:26:00.005-05:00

Pregnancy is an interesting thing, just totally wrecking havoc on the body you've been use to for x number of years. An uncomfortable process... definitely; a beautiful process... absolutely.

In the last few weeks, I feel God has brought to fruition things that have been long labored. It was an uncomfortable process and at the same beautiful; just like pregnancy.

I thoroughly enjoy comparisons of life in the physical realm and the spiritual realm.

He is so faithful to me.

marriage.

2010-03-31T10:35:00.002-05:00

First, I forgot my camera so I cannot share pictures of how beautiful it was where we retreated! And I just did a google image search with no luck to find the perfect picture to capture how pretty it really was. So, I recommend going because it really is picture perfect and especially if you are a skier or snowboarder!

As for the marriage retreat (the class part), it was awesome! I'm so proud of my husband for putting this together and really teaching some good information. I also enjoyed being a part of the teaching some and giving a wife's perspective. There was a lot of good discussions between couples and lots of new skills to apply to the marriage to help with communication.

I think the big thing we continued to hound was commitment. After one session we talked with one younger couple and she made the comment to her husband "I don't know how long we'll be married...." which I immediately stopped and asked why don't you know? Didn't you commit to "until death do us part?" I believe this really spoke to both of them. In a society, where if you get sick of your spouse or it just gets "too hard" then you can divorce and move on, so in their minds there is always a way out. I'm really praying that from Aron and I sharing some of our struggles and staying committed to one another no matter what, that it would open their eyes to be more willing to be a little more effort into their marriage.

It really was a lot of fun but it was exhausting! We were ready to get home on Sunday afternoon and just lay on our couch with nothing to do. Now we are sitting less than one week out until hubs leaves for his training and I get to spend some time with family in StL. I'm both looking forward to it and not. Obviously, it'll be fun to hang out with my family but it will also be sad to know Aron will be gone for a month.

And a little pregnancy update - I am 17 weeks tomorrow but you couldn't tell by looking at me. I seriously look the same, okay maybe a little pudge in the midsection... When we are both back in May we'll find out the gender! We can't wait! I'm ready to start a few blue or pink purchases... and if I haven't said this before we think it's a girl, so I'll let you know if our prediction is right or not!

Blessings!

Marriage Retreat

2010-03-24T08:56:00.002-05:00

As of now I have decided this is a perk of being an Army Chaplain's Wife... a marriage retreat!

Now, of course my husband will be working the retreat and be pretty busy with logistics and what not, so I'm unsure how much of a retreat it will be for the two of us. I'm assuming we'll get some alone time to just enjoy being somewhere else. Either way I'm excited to see what God has in store! We have around 25 couples coming from the battalion (maybe more, I don't know the exact count). I'm just praying that this time will bless them! So pray with me that marriages will be restored, made new, and new GREAT memories will be created in order to endure the challenges of being in the military (aka a deployment on the horizon). I find it all to be very exciting!

And on that note, I'm going to go let my hubby know that the 2-hour delay has turned into a snow day for him. Oh Colorado Springs your weather is SO weird!! I wore no jacket yesterday during the day and then by night time it was blizzardy - we are talking serious wind and snow that came out of nowhere! If winter was always like yesterday I'd love it! :)

oh baby!

2010-03-23T11:18:00.004-05:00

Mostly this blog is dedicated to the life of an Army Chaplain's Wife, but being this wife I wear "other hats" as well. Currently, I'm wearing a new hat called "Mom To Be." It's a bit overwhelming when there are over 100 strollers, car seats, etc to choose from. Did you know that the swing now can swing two different ways? I mean really? It's exhausting and frustrating. And then you make a decision, like on a particular stroller or to do cloth diapers and you feel all relaxed and happy that a decision has been made... Only to encounter well this stroller doesn't accommodate all infant carriers (wait I am getting an infant carrier?) and then cloth diapers... don't even ask how many options there are! Ah! Okay I'll admit the rambling felt wonderful.

In the midst of this headache, I am realizing something. All of this time and attention to detail I have been taking in preparation for the arrival of this little one is only a fraction of the time and detail that God takes in looking over my own life. Now God isn't picking out the best pack-n-play for me, but He sure is placing people into my life to surround me while Aron is gone. Such an important detail for me! One I am so thankful for and another reminder of His faithfulness!! Had to share! Bless you all!

March is TBI Awareness Month!

2010-03-11T11:09:00.004-06:00

Being part of the military family now I have realized that March is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month! This began when I was contacted by someone through CareMeridian and asked to post an article on TBI to raise awareness. Then, the Army Times arrived faithfully to our mailbox with more information on TBI. I felt compelled to do my part in spreading important information on this too common injury. Below you will find the article I mentioned earlier from CareMeridian. I encourage you to take the time to read the entire article because it contains valuable information. And when you are done reading it, pass it on to those who are in the military. Let's no longer be uninformed about TBI!

Traumatic Brain Injuries in the Military

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is becoming a common wound of modern warfare. It has even been coined the “signature wound” of the War on Terror. While TBI is becoming more prevalent in wartime activity, many service men and women continue to go undiagnosed. Institutions, like the US Department of Veterans Affairs, are working to make quick and accurate diagnoses in order to prescribe appropriate and effective treatment.

TBI is caused by forced trauma to the head, either by being shaken or hit. The severity of a TBI varies from case to case, but symptoms range from mild concussions to a debilitating state. The majority of TBI’s acquired by military personnel are classified as mild traumatic brain injuries (MTBI). Initial symptoms of MTBI consist of loss of consciousness, disorientation, loss of memory, headache, and temporary loss of hearing and vision. They are often partnered with anxiety, irritability, difficulties processing information, limited concentration amongst other problems experienced down the road. While MTBI is most common amongst the men and women of the armed forces, more severe cases of TBI are happening much more frequently and often require the victim to attended specialty rehabilitative nursing centers, like CareMeridian.

The most common cause of a TBI in the military is due to blasts. There are three degrees of blast injuries where a TBI is common; Primary (due to blast itself), Secondary (due to objects being propelled by a blast) and Tertiary (due to a collision with a third party object). According to the Veterans Health Initiative, active male members of the military from the ages 18-24 are hospitalized with a TBI at a rate of 231 per 100,000 and females 150 per 100,000. Based on military force projections this would mean that 4,141 military personnel are hospitalized on average each year with a TBI, and these numbers often rise during wartimes.

The best prevention for veterans to avert the long-term effects of a brain injury is to recognize the symptoms of a TBI. Once the symptoms are identified an individual should take basic precautionary measures in order to begin the healing and recovery process until a more specific diagnosis can be made.

Service men and women give so much to protect this country and they deserve to come home to a happy and healthy life. Creating awareness about TBI will help ensure their long term health. By helping our veterans, their friends and their families recognize the early warning signs of a TBI, treatment can be sought as early as possible.

field pictures.

2010-03-10T16:09:00.015-06:00

Buildings in the field... this is apparently not normal.
Most in-field training is only with a bunch of tents!
Cots that the soldiers slept on.

Shower facilities; it was quite impressive for there not being plumping, etc.
Chapel where hubby preached both Sundays
Here are tents that are more commonly known for field training - yes, soldiers slept in there and yes, it was freezing during their time in the field (no worry there are heaters, but it's still nothing like the heat in our homes).

Cook prepping a meal for the day.
Breakfast and dinner were "hot" meals and lunch was usually an MRE.

Don't I look excited to be trying an MRE?
It was interesting experience and some of it wasn't too bad tasting.

Hubby in his little room. He was fortunate to have his own little office/slept space.

This is the building Aron's room was in; it also served has headquarters for decision making, etc.

It was such a blessing to spend time with my husband and see the soldiers he serves in action. I know feel more educated on what our guys are doing out there!

Their view. All around them was little mountains, it was actually quite beautiful.

into the field.

2010-03-01T19:53:00.002-06:00

He comes home today! I'm waiting for him to hopefully get off at 1900 (as he says!). Dinner just came out of the oven and is cooling some, so praying for good timing!

He has been out "in the field" the last 2 weeks. In the field means going to a place on post that is designed for training for going "down range." Although it's on post, it is not a place that us spouses can get to! With that being said, I had the privilege to go into the field and see what our awesome soldier do. It was the FRG leaders and other leaders who volunteer and help. Therefore, I felt even more honored to come along with these amazing women. Aron the chaplain to a support battalion; I did not know what that meant... it seemed unclear. So, by the end of the trip I had a much better understanding how our battalion supports the entire brigade with medical and mechanical support and providing supplies. They are amazing, sincerely! The Lt. Colonel was saying they were completing their tasks with perfection. How encouraging for us to hear and how proud we felt of all of them! I will have some pictures to post after I load them on my computer (hopefully tomorrow!)

As far as Mr. Chaplain. He is loving it. The ministry, the outdoors, and the experience. Did I mention he loves it?! I couldn't be happier for him. I know it's difficult for him to be loving his job so much and missing me so much. With a baby on the way too I believe it makes it more difficult for him, but he is leaning on the Lord for the strength. Either way, we both know God has called us here for this season and the seasons to come we'll see where He guides us and leads us!

As for now, I'm going to lay down and relax because I did lots of meal planning, grocery shopping, made 3 loaves of bread, chicken enchiladas for dinner, and changed the sheets. I'm poooped! Can't wait for him to come home! :) :) :)

feeling better.

2010-02-18T09:24:00.001-06:00

Ah with the second trimester within reach... I'm beginning to feel better! Hooray! It's been a ROUGH month and a half. And I'm in vote to changing the phrase "morning sickness" to potential all-day sickness. But, praise God I'm on the end stretch of this! I actually have had a burst of energy in the evening and have cleaned the kitchen and caught up with laundry. Ahh...

Not only am I feeling better physically, I'm feeling better emotionally. Not sure if I was on a hype of additional hormones floating through my veins or I was in a frump from being stuck on the couch eating bland food and still feeling nausea... or more than likely a combination of both. With this being said, my feeling sorry for myself is officially over. Let's praise the Lord again!

And the other night I was able to have a deep heart-felt conversation with my closest and dearest friend. I've decided I would go insane with her (so again PRAISE GOD she's in my life!). The conclusion of the conversation has made me desperately want to have a lovesick relationship with the Lord. I want more revelation of His love for me, what He thinks of me, and beginning to define myself according to HIM. Not an easy road, but I realize not seeking this is leaving me feeling like I'm missing something. So I'm on this journey, I'm going to be reading Deep unto Deep by Dana Candler. I started it awhile back and began to be completely moved by how she talks about God and how He feels towards us. The truths she spoke of were profound.

Also, I know I had set out to read the Bible in 90 days. Unfortunately, that is not going to happen. However, my new task is to finish the Bible before the baby is born. Almost as if I am reading it to him/her. There is nothing more that I want but to have children who are in love with Jesus. Who get is from birth that they are adored by their Father in heaven.

In sum - I feel revived, refreshed, renewed. I love how the Lord works and pulls out of our crappiness and shows us once again His ways are higher and just simply better. Oh how He loves me.

sigh.

2010-02-14T19:17:00.002-06:00

Saturday we were woken by a phone call. One that changes lives.

Aron received a call around 6am in need of a chaplain to do a causality notification.

It made us immediately wake up and quickly get him ready in dress blues to run off to meet up with others to find out more information. After he left I just lay there; thinking, imagining, crying. This spouse's life was about to change drastically. They woke up like any other day not know that my husband and another would show up at their door with the heart-wrenching news. I couldn't imagine.

I may have said this a handful of times, but I felt once again the reality that we are in the Army. In the Army, where the tragedies of life in the military are hitting very close to home. I feel my complaints of my husband deployment when our child is born so ignorant. Many woman have done it before and not only that think of all the widows. Their husbands don't ever come home. They are immediately forced into being a single parent. Ugh. So I take back my whining, ask for forgiveness and pray for all those spouses who have lost a loved one while at war. Especially the spouse my husband had to go visit yesterday.

God, comfort them tonight. Grant them the grace to endure the grief they are experiencing. Surround them with the love of friends of family. Let them never feel alone but sense Your presence. Oh God heal their wounded hearts!

bursting.

2010-02-11T14:33:00.004-06:00

I want my blog to be one of transparency of my journey in life and as a spouse in the Army Chaplaincy. Please understand this is a moment of frustration of the reality of what we are to embark upon. In no way do I regret the decision we have made to join the Army and serve the Lord in this capacity, but in this journey their are sacrifices. The road is narrow, the workers are few, and the sacrifices are great... we must and will continue on...

I write this with tears. From the depths of my heart my cry bursts out. Reality is what we are facing. This is the journey I said yes to God, no matter the cost, the pain, the tears. There are no regrets Oh God. Just a current struggle. A struggle many families have faced before more, many more will face, and many are facing right now as I type this words. It's life. It's the little life that is growing within me. A little 10 week old babe, unaware of the world it will be brought into. The pure innocence of this babe. A baby born to a father that will be thousands of miles away facing the power of God moving in a land filled with hatred and war. That won't be held by his/her daddy until months after he/she has begun to discover the world around. To hear daddy's laugh when his/her mommy says something silly. Even to enjoy the calming voice of his/her daddy's voice when he/she is upset. Ugh. And to miss some of those precious 'first' moments that are hold such a special place in a parents heart.

God I trust you. I know You are the Creator of life, for such a time as this would this child be born upon this earth. Please comfort me in these moments of pure weakness. In these moments where the future seems real and not somebody else's life. Let me see Your glory through this God. And more importantly, be with my husband during all of this. Don't let our hearts be bitter, let us see your hand upon this situation. Comfort us God. Show us Your glory...

I am asking for prayers for a healthy pregnancy (and a child that comes to know and LOVE the Lord with all their heart, mind, and soul). Also, for God to move on all our hearts during this transition as we begin to prepare for deployment this summer.

PS - this would be why I haven't been blogging... 1.5 months of horrid morning (aka all day) sickness. Starting to feel better. Had a minor set back Monday night with possible food poisoning that sent me to the ER for a few IVs, but God is good and I'm back on my feet some today.

snow.

2010-01-27T20:55:00.002-06:00

It's snowing here! I don't know what it is about this snow. I feel like I was yearning for it, awaiting it to fall for the last few weeks. And here it is. Outside a thin blanket of white covers the ground. Why is it just so profoundly moving me? It's just fresh, new, and oh so white. I don't know if it's the covering of the dirt that surrounds our new home (come on spring and grass!) or just something in my spirit craves something.

Anyways, pure white snow untouched is refreshing. Lord, thank you for this gift of snow tonight and may I seek You to find the desires of my heart.

taking a break.

2010-01-14T20:45:00.001-06:00

Just wanted to let the blogworld know I am taking a break. I have not been feeling that great, hence the lack of posting, and am planning to take it easy for awhile until I'm feeling better...

Thanks and hope you're having a wonderful week and a long weekend!

win a netbook.

2010-01-11T10:50:00.002-06:00

Staples is giving away a netbook! Go to the link below and follow the directions to enter yourself; be prepared to share the worst gift ever. :)

http://www.staples.com/sbd/cre/marketing/twitter_contest_09/?cm_mmc=sbd_acq-_-product_011110-_-retail_catch_all-_-num&cm_lm=simplylauren07@gmail.com

what a weekend.

2010-01-10T21:13:00.003-06:00

So I'm a little behind on my reading, hence the lack of blogging about my reading. Almost done with Leviticus though. I will get caught up in the next few days. I realize it's just that much harder on the weekends when no regular routine is in place. PLUS - could you wake up that puppy sleeping on your Bible? I couldn't either. :)

Our weekend was wonderful. Saturday was spent running a few errands and then cleaning up the house a bit. We are pretty much done unpacking and just everything is still trying to find it's perfect place... it'll get there. And Sunday, we were busy! We went to the gospel service today to try out it. Definitely different than we are used to but it's ALWAYS encouraging to be around others who love the Lord no matter what denomination. Then over to my husband's commander's house (that was two possessives in one sentence... cool.) where we enjoyed excellent fellowship. I have to say not only did I learn a lot about the Army, I also enjoyed the conversation and food. I'm looking forward to getting to know both of them more and plugging into our battalion and meeting more soldiers and spouses! It's very exciting. And on that note, I'm WIPED out! :)

oh how he loves us...

2010-01-08T09:51:00.003-06:00

One of my favorite songs (thanks GHOP!) by John Mark McMillan.

After doing part of my b90days reading this song just came into my heart and I began singing it. Lord fill me with your love, new revelations Oh God for me and for everyone who reads this blog and for everyone participating in the B90Days!!!

Finer Things Friday

2010-01-08T08:21:00.002-06:00

I'm wanting to get involved with other blogs, there is such an awesome community out there, and have decided http://amysfinerthings.com is an awesome site that encourages a relationship with the Lord. Therefore, Finer Things Friday; which Amy says: "Won’t you join me as we celebrate The Finer Things in Life right here every Friday? Let’s encourage each other to pursue and cherish the simple, ordinary-extraordinary things that make life worth living."

Home. My Finer Thing in Life is my home.

Yes, home. Where we can come home to the fruit of our labor and rest our heads.

A place where we cultivate our relationships with each other and God.

One that often filled with laughter and occasionally is filled with delicious smells.

We were able to purchase our first home in Dec 09 and we are loving this finer thing in our life. We pray that it will not only continue to bless us, but to bless everyone who enters it.

You're out there, Right?!

2010-01-08T06:30:00.001-06:00

Stubbling my way through the vast world of the internet I found "International Blog Delurking Week." Perfect I thought to myself. I know you are reading me, okay besides my wonderful husband and extended family. There are other of you out there... It's time to step out of the shadows of your keyboard and say hello!

I want to meet you, I love blogging and I love meeting new people. I love sharing my heart for the Lord. And know I want to love having a comment from you. :) So, your lurking is done... Leave a comment, share something about yourself or share something you like/dislike about my blog or say hello or anything!

And maybe join in on Delurking Week... I'm putting a Mr. Linky at the bottom titled Friendship Friday, so we can become friends... I'll even go over lurk a bit on your page and leave a comment.

Day 7 of B90Days

2010-01-07T11:36:00.006-06:00

Exodus 29:1 - Exodus 40:38

Details, details, details. God is a god of DETAILS, and praise Him for it. Just like we saw in Day 6's reading that He planned all the details of blessing His people and providing for them the materials to build the Tabernacle, He also gave SPECIFIC instructions on how to build the Tabernacle and all that went with it. The measurements had to be exact, the colors, the materials. The instructions are the best instructions anyone has ever written. (Think when you open a box with hundreds of pieces and then see directions that appear to make no sense... not the case with our God!)

All of this made me think... If God cared so deeply about every detail of the tabernacle, how much more does He care about the intimate and what may seem insignificant details of my life? My plan is to meditate on this throughout the rest of the day. To let that sink in, to hit my heart, to feel that deep love my Creator has for me. Oh God, if I could only know your love more what would it do to me? Let me feel you press against me God.

As I reflect on this I pray that you would also find yourself in meditation over this and that you would encounter God in a new and real way. Please share your thoughts and experiences with the Lord. I love to know how God moves on others hearts. I'm praying.

Day 6 of B90Days - frustrated a bit?

2010-01-07T11:12:00.007-06:00

First, thank you to Amy at Momstoolbox.com, who began this journey of reading the Bible in 90 days as an online community. I am so grateful for her willingness to follow the Lord and begin such a task. Next, I want to share her most recent post. I'm not sure if anyone who reads my blog is participating, but if you are I highly recommend this read: http://www.momstoolbox.com/blog/2010/01/07/bible-in-90-days-gettin g-frustrated-yet/ She discusses the frustration of staying on top of the reading. With that being said.... I am caught up completely!

Exodus 15:19 - Exodus 28:43

Each time I read a day's worth of reading something sticks out to me. Other scriptures speak to me, but there is always one that just stands out. This time it was Exodus 25:2 "Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering. From everyone who gives willing with his heart you take My offering." God needed specific items in order for the Tabernacle to be built, not just any items, expensive ones. It required gold, silver, bronze, acacia wood, fine linens, blue, purple, scarlet threads, etc. Where would a bunch of people in the wilderness find such exquisite materials?

Let's think back to when the Israelites left Egypt. "Now the children of Israel had done according to the word of Moses, and they had asked from the Egyptians articles of silver, articles of gold and clothing. And the Lord had given the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they granted them what they requested. Thus they plundered the Egyptians" (Gen 12:35-36) Additionally, the Israelites had been prosperous in the land of Goshen while they lived under the Pharaoh's reign.

God orchestrated and ordained these events to not only provide, but provide more than enough to have left over when building the Tabernacle (Gen 36:5, 7). Let us be encouraged that God will provide more than enough and I am personally asking God to continue to provide more than enough to help us pay off our student loans.

Break from B90Days Post

2010-01-06T14:22:00.005-06:00

I hope you are enjoying my Bible in 90 Days posting. It's difficult to the reading and then post in the same day. I underline the scriptures that stick out to me, meditate on them, and then blog. But this post isn't about that!

Many of you know I am settling into Fort Carson. Aron's been going to work for half days so far (full days start back up on Monday!) and I have been finishing settling into our home. We attended Post Chapel on Sunday. Chapel X, the contemporary non-denominational service, is where we decided to go. The Chaplains we met at Ch-Bolc were going there so we figured we check it out too! Honestly, it was a lot of fun seeing familiar faces and meeting many new ones! This upcoming Sunday we are planning on checking out the Gospel service... we can't help it we love long worship sets that don't stop praising and normally Gospel services do too! :) We are both excited to check it out.

On another note in Army Chaplain's Wife land... my calendar has events on it. I am planning on attending an FRG meeting and the Coffee for Aron's Battalion 4BSB (4th Brigade Support Battalion). And then there is a Chaplain's Spouse Coffee where we are playing Bunco - fun! I've only played Bunco once... I will report on how it goes! :)

And the most important event: Aron and my 3rd Anniversary on January 22nd... aww! :)

Day 5 of B90Days

2010-01-06T13:38:00.002-06:00

Exodus 1 - 15:18

God is after our hearts. He is after us and wants to prove Himself over and over again to us. He begins with giving Moses tools to show the Israelities that God is with Moses; his rod turning into a serpent. And in Exodus 7:17 "Thus says the LORD: "By this you shall know that I am the Lord." He grabs their attention. Oh God when you try and grab my attention, let me me not be numb or unaware of your calling until my heart!

Also, He wants us to remember what He has done for us. Exodus 13:8 :And you shall tell your son in that day saying, 'This is done because of that the Lord did for me when I came up from Egypt.'" God, let me not forget the great wonders and mercies you have done in my own life!

And finally, the Exodus was NOT solely about saving the Israelities from Egypt. It was also about God establishing Himself with the Egyptians. Exodus 14:4 "Then I will harden Pharaoh's heart, so that he will pursue theml and I will gain honor over Pharaoh and over all his army, that the Egyptians may know that I am the Lord." Exodus 14:18 "Then, the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gained honor for Myself over Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen." I believe it reveals more of the character of God. He wants everyone to come to know Him so that He may also pour out His blessings and mercies upon more.

Perspective from a Military Chaplain's Wife...

2010-01-06T13:25:00.002-06:00

A few days ago a friend of mine posted something on her blog that gripped my heart. She is an Army Chaplain's wife and currently her husband is deployed. She is facing the reality of being an Army spouse. Since her husband left for his year long deployment she has had to face the reality that soldier are dying down range. This is real.

To many Americans not connected to the military community it is painfully too easy to forget the ongoing sacrifices that are daily made by brave men and women. I believer her blog post captured the reality of what is taking place in a way that brings honor to our fallen soldiers while also reminding us of the reality of death and injuries down range.

I pray you click on the link to here blog and take the time to not only read her powerful words but also each name she has listed at the end. Let us thank the Lord each day for those who have given their lives, who are currently fighting, and for all military families. God be with all of you.

http://militarychaplainswife.blogspot.com/2010/01/2009.html

Day 4 of B90Days

2010-01-04T22:49:00.006-06:00

Genesis 41 - 50

Many people, both believers and nonbelievers, wonder why do bad things happen to good people. I find myself even struggling to answer that question when someone asks. I know in my heart that my life is to serve Him alone and even if that means pain and suffering. However, it doesn't justify why these events occur nor does it always make it easier during those circumstances.

I found a tremendous amount strength in the passage: "But now, do not therefore e grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here: for God sent me before you to preserve life" (Gen 45:5) and "And God sent me before you to preserve a posterity for you in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance" (Gen 45:7).

See, Joseph was sold to the Egyptians by his brothers. He was alone in a foreign land, his father crushed because he believed his son to be dead - a horrible event. A bad thing happened to a good person, Joseph. His brothers envied him and their solution was to get rid of him. Yet, God used this situation for HIS glory and it didn't occur right away. Time went by and Joseph ended up being a high official within Egypt and his interpretation of the Pharaoh's dream is what saved many lives. Pretty amazing, I think so.

Let us also not forget in those difficult times that God hears our cry, He wants to comfort us, He wants us to lean upon Him for strength, He is our Father, He will not leave or forsake us, He is a GOOD God. But also know, as we shed our tears and He collects each one of them in a bottle He will use the horrible circumstance for the greatest good. After all, He is righteous and holy justice prevails.

Day 3 B90Days

2010-01-04T22:41:00.003-06:00

So I have a confession, I fell short on Day 3 and had two more chapters to read... but I am now caught up. And with this confession, I have learned I need to do my reading in the morning first thing before the day starts. This will be a great transition and a good habit to get into. So here is Day 3...

Genesis 28 - 40

This versus has always been one of my favorites and it just comes alive to me every time I read it. It's Genesis 32:26 "I will not let you go until you bless me." This cry of desperation comes while Jacob has wrestled through the night with God. An image of wrestling with the Lord does something to my inner man. It moves me. That I can have a relationship with God of the universe and I can wrestle with Him for my hearts desires. Wrestle. Seriously, my heart yearns for the Lord, so much I want to wrestle with Him. I want to know the desires of His heart and I want my heart to align with those desires; I want to wrestle until I find those mysteries. I want to wrestle with Him until He blesses me. (sigh) Oh God!

Day 2 of B90Days

2010-01-03T00:04:00.003-06:00

Genesis 17 - 28

No long in depth tonight; it's late. Just want to point out the obedience of Abraham when he was told to take his only son to the altar to be sacrificed. Not only would a parent cringe at the the thought of this, but Abraham was promised by God to have as many descendants as they are stars in the sky. Yet, he takes his son up to the altar anyway. Then within moments of sacrificing his son... (interesting God sacrificed His only son) the Lord provides a ram (Gen 22:13) and at that place Abraham declared the land as THE-LORD-WILL-PROVIDE. Therefore, let us also hold on to Genesis 22:14 and know that the Lord our God who reigns above heaven and earth WILL provide.

And last I want to leave with a scripture that stuck out to me. Gen 28:17 "How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!"

Bible in 90 Days - Day 1

2010-01-01T19:29:00.005-06:00

The Bible in 90 Days Challenge - Are you in?
Not only am I looking to this challenge as a the completion of a goal, but to set up life changing habits of daily being in the Word. It is absolutely necessary to fill ourselves with the Living Word of God daily. My hope is not only to read the pages each day, but to also blog here and there about it. Reading will be the main priority and blogging a second. With this being said, here is my first The Bible in 90 Days post! HOOAH!

Genesis 1 - 16:16

First, how beautiful is it to read creation. Every time I read it I find myself falling in love with my Creator again. Each thing He made He declared it as good - everything He makes is good, He even said "Let Us make man in Our image, according to His likeness" (Gen 1:26). We are made in the image of God, even our physical being. The other aspect of creation that I cannot look past is that He spoke ("God said...") it all into life, motion, into being... His words created the universes. What power. And because God created us in His image our words also carry power. We have the ability to speak life or death into situations. Then to tie in being a woman of God, we are created to be a helper (Gen 2:18); thus, I should use my words to speak life into my husband's life. Creation is beautiful; God is beautiful.

The other part of the section I connected to the most was God's promises. There were two that stuck out to me personally. There was also the covenant between God and man marked by the rainbow after the flood; it represents that God will not destroy the earth again through flood.

The first promise being found at the fall of man (Gen 3:15 "And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.") God the Father speaking to the enemy as a serpent; that in the end the Seed (Jesus) will ultimately defeat the enemy in the end while the enemy will only bruise the heel of Jesus. Another way to say this is that this is God's promise at the time of the fall of man for us to overcome death by the blood of the Lamb (Jesus)! Now that is a promise worth holding onto. One of my favorite lines from a Hillsong song: "The enemy has been defeated... Death couldn't hold you down. Gonna lift our voice in victory.. We're gonna make your praises loud!"

The next promise is one I hold onto because it is one that we can see come to pass. God promises Abraham a son and although it does not come to fruition right away, it did happen in God's perfect timing. How many times have we clung to a promise from God and doubt Him because it hasn't happened quick enough in our own minds? If you find yourself in this situation cling to Gen 15:5 "Look now toward heaven, and count the stars i you are able to number them... So shall your descendants be." And Abraham believed Him. Let us be so bold to believe God.

And I leave you with what the Lord spoke to Abraham "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield your exceedingly great reward!" (Gen 15: 1).

Goals for 2010

2010-01-01T12:25:00.004-06:00

I'm normally not a goal making person where I write it all down, usually I just know what I'm going to accomplish it and most the time do it. However, this year I've been inspired to write them down and attempt to keep track of my success. So here for the 2010 year are my goals.

Spiritual

Read through the Bible in 90 days starting January 1st. In sum this is to read about 10 chapters a day. Over and over again I see the importance of getting into the Word.
Spend time every morning praying for my husband before he heads of to work. And set aside time to pray as a family.
Read The Normal Christian Life by Watchman Nee, Deep unto Deep by Dana Candler, Book of Revelation study Guide put out by IHOP, and more.

Financial

Pay off my student loan debt AND beginning to pay off some of Aron's.
Continue to use our budget system I have perfected over the last few months; this will help us put extra money towards debt and savings.
Eat out less by cooking more at home.
Finally, get back into utilizing my coupon binder and saving our family money.

Personal

Work out 3-4 times a week; even if it's for a walk around the neighborhood.
Crochet once a week.
Floss everyday. Meaning even when I'm running late - floss! I know it's bad that I'm not already in the habit, but that is whu it is a goal!
Get involved in both the Chaplain spouses at Fort Carson and involved in my husband's Battalion's spouse group.

Homemaking

Make a menu plan every week.
Have a cooking/baking day once a month to freeze meals.
Stay on top of cleaning by cleaning little more often.
Do laundry once a week instead of letting in pile up

lookback on 2009

2010-01-01T11:19:00.003-06:00

Wow, what a year 2009 was. We accomplished so many great things, it's going to be hard for 2010 to compete! A brief overview of the events in our 2009...

January 22: Celebrated our 2nd anniversary at a bed and breakfast along with whale watching.

April: Reunion for Aron and his dad in Texas and a chance for me to meet him and Aron's step-mom. We really had a blast getting to know them and try my hand at fishing.

May: We both enjoyed the graduation ceremony at Regent University for our Master's degree.

June: One month apart while I finished teaching in Norfolk (phew - Thank the Lord!) and Aron did his internship at Barnes Jewish Hospital. On the 25th (my dad's birthday too!) we found out Aron was accepted to be a chaplain in the Army - such an exciting day!

July: Visited the Stephens' family in Texas for the fourth of July and found out we'd be PCSing to Ft Carson! Again, exciting! I also finished ALL of my requirements for my Master's!

August: Aron finished up his internship (and Master's program) and we headed out to Mexico for a week long much needed vacation. We had such a fun time.

September-December: Aron was at Ft Jackson South Carolina for CH-BOLC while I sub taught in St Louis. Also, in that time we bought a house near Ft Carson, Aron was in a car accident so we had to purchase a new car, and we were able to spend Thanksgiving together with family.

December: Aron graduated CH-BOLC, we moved to Fort Carson, closed on our house, moved in and unpacked, and I finally received my VA teaching license!

Honestly, I couldn't have asked for a better year. In 2010, we have things to look forward to, but there is a looming event in the back of both our minds... deployment. Aron will be deploying sometime in the year 2010. It will be tough, but just like the Lord was faithful and got us through the tough times of 2009, He remains the same and will continue to be faithful. I'm so thankful I can fall upon the Rock and know that He holds me in the palm of His hand.

May you take the time to reflect on all the blessings you received throughout 2009 and all the times the Lord was with you in those difficult times. Also, may your 2010 year be one full of the Lord's hand with grace, blessings and love.

question.

2009-12-22T06:36:00.001-06:00

If you are already military (chaplaincy or not) what is your number one piece of advice to all of us newbies out there?

OR

If you are a newbie or walking towards chaplaincy or military life... what are you're biggest concerns or questions you have?

Post a comment. Let's see if we can help each other out!

moving.

2009-12-21T20:25:00.004-06:00

I may have made this a blog title before, but I feel moving is quite a process; therefore, two blog titles or more is perfectly fine with me.

Tomorrow is the big day for us -- closing on our home. It's been quite the adventure. I'm not going to lie I was nervous at times that last minute things wouldn't work out and we'd be running up and down the streets of Colorado Springs in desperation for a home. However, the Lord is faithful. When I say that I do not just mean the provision for a home, but He is faithful in not leaving us high and dry without hope. If I went back and replayed every detail of this house buying process the grace and TIMING of God weaved the entire act into perfection... even though at times I thought I was going nuts! Ahh, to trust in the Lord...

Back to closing on the house tomorrow, moving our jam-packed cars full of stuff into the house (read paragraph below to avoid this) - yay! Cleaning. and Just enjoying our home! Hip-hip-hoorray! Then Wednesday is when all our stuff comes! Yay! And that's when all the unpacking begins... yay? Apparently as you become a seasoned Army spouse you become much quicker at unpacking; maybe this isn't true but the hope of it sure sounds wonderful!

I have said this before but it NEEDS to be reiterated: FIRST DAY BOX or BOXES!!! Do not, DO NOT, take all of your sheets and blankets and what-nots with you. Put all those necessary items in one or multiple boxes labled First Day Box. Just don't be me and pack a car to the max so when you drive down I-70 you can't see a dang thing around you but where you are going. And then drag half of it up to your room and then back to somehow fit back into the car... Am I venting? :) FIRST DAY BOX.

army gear.

2009-12-18T09:55:00.003-06:00

I like the Army and the Army likes gear. Last night after a long day of in-processing Aron came home with a car full of gear, which then he followed by saying "This is not all of it." I appreciate the Army providing protective gear to my soldier (and all other soldiers). I was just in shock of how many different types of protective gear there exists.

When Aron cam home he put the plates in his bullet proof vest and I was helping him adjust it to fit better. This was a smash of reality in the face. Let me rephrase: I was adjusting my husband's bullet proof vest. Again, surreal. Many military family members have already experienced the feelings associated with sending a loved one overseas so that he or she may complete the mission; I found myself joining this unofficial group.

Yet, I stopped myself. He sent His own son into battle. God knows. What joy. What relief. He has sent us to the Army Chaplaincy, He has sent us to Fort Carson, and He will send my husband down range for SUCH A TIME AS THIS for the greatest glory for Jesus. This is ministry, we are missionaries, and we are sold out for this mission. I have to trust in the goodness of the Lord and realize that my life is laid out before Him for His glory; no matter what the cost.

When our soldiers go to put on their Army gear, also let us pray together the Armor of God from Ephesians 6: 10-17
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."

Now side note, I will be laboring in praying for the safety of my husband, soldiers, other chaplains, and the peace, patience, and blessings for all family members. And I do want my husband to return home safely just as I want all soldiers to return home safely!

Praise God for His goodness and mercy! Praise God for the ultimate sacrifice! And thank the Army for protective gear to protect the most precious components of the military!

Oregon Trail: The Stephens' version

2009-12-17T12:34:00.001-06:00

Okay, so we didn't have it so rough. There were no oxen to be hitched to our wagon, no one suffered from any illness or broken limbs, we didn't have to stop and fish or hunt for food, and of course there were nice bridges already built so no forging the river! Well and furthermore, we ended our journey in Colorado.

Our travel westward was perfect. We were able to leave by 10:30 EST from Fort Jackson and end up in Wilmore, KY that evening. Our good friends let us stay with them, which was not only a financial blessing, but a wonderful time to reconnect face to face with our closest friends. And of course we stayed up far later than normal (aka 1:30 am!); it was worth every minute of lack of sleep we felt the next day. Also, we were able to see Aron's mom and spend some time with her before heading to StL for some repacking of the car and Christmas with my family.

In StL, I wasn't sure we'd be able to fit everything into the new car. I have learned a lesson... let the packers take MORE!! And a FIRST DAY BOX is key. Pack it yourself with your essentials: bedding, towels, maybe some clothes, cooking stuff, whatever you would need as you settle into a home! By the grace of God and my dad's super ability to pack anything... it all fit. Of course we could not see out any windows, but it fit! We also had a little Christmas celebration, actually pretending it was the 25th of December. It was a blast, I'm so thankful for that time with my family especially with Aron there as well. The Army life is a guarantee for missing holidays and I know next Christmas will be one of them.

We left Monday and headed to Hays, KS for the best meal I believe we have ever had. They sure know how to cook and BBQ chicken out there! If you pass through the town off of I-70 it's called Whiskey Creek - do stop for a tasting of heavenly chicken. Oh yes, we also stayed the night there.

And finally we arrived in Colorado Springs at 11:30 on Tuesday morning! So we are here! Safe and sound. Will update more as time progresses. I have a little extra free time on my hands while we are living in a hotel.

(PS We have final approval on our house! YAY!)

CHBOLC Graduation

2009-12-17T09:49:00.002-06:00

One day when my camera cord has been found in the endless boxes that lay in storage there will be at least one picture to be added to my blog... But for now I will blog in a less exciting format that consists only of words.

Our dinner on Thursday night was fun; sitting around the table with our new friends and chatting about the long travel ahead of us, the mysteries of the military, the confusion of multiple acronyms, and every other new piece of information we had just downloaded in the past few days. We were also able to get a lot of questions answered about the move from the Division Chaplain at Fort Carson. Again, it was an awesome time and I look forward to more times of fellowship.

Graduation was exactly 1 hour and 5 minutes. I note this because when most people hear 'graduation' they combine that thought with an inevitable 3 hour long drawn out ceremony. Ha, not in the Army! They took care of business - Hooah! My amazement in the speed of the ceremony was not the highlight of the graduation though, it was the pure pride that swelled with in me as I saw my husband who has worked so hard for two years to get to that point. Had it not been for the rapid speed of the ceremony I may have sat and cried for the hour. Congrats to a man so deserving of the certificate of graduating from CHBOLC. HOOAH!

CHBOLC Spouse Seminar Day 4

2009-12-13T10:37:00.000-06:00

That would bring us to Thursday!

Once again lots of information, including the FRG everyone (AD, Reserves, or Guard), your child(ren)'s education, and benefits and entitlements. For lunch with split up into the different parts of the Army (AD, Reserves, and Guard). It was fun to talk to the other AD spouses and talk about our move and getting settled, etc...

Finally, the day ended with all of us being able to ask a panel of current CH spouses whatever we wanted. There were so many great questions asked. It was that one last chance to have peace of mind about a particular topic. The best part was hearing about the wives experiences with moving and their backgrounds. Just having them share their journey was encouraging to the journey we are all heading out on!

Another thing Aron and I did, which may or may not be common to your situation but we had dinner with the Division Chaplain from Ft Carson with the other 5 Ch and their wife (those that were there). I'm actually writing this before heading out to it... so if I remember I'll come back in here to update on how it goes! Yikes! A little bit nervous, but at the same time I know it will be fun to see the Carson folk once again!

CHBOLC Spouse Seminar Day 3

2009-12-12T15:33:00.000-06:00

Wednesday was Day 3. I found this day to be the most useful information because it dealt with Pre-Deployment, Deployment, and Reunion after the deployment. The information gave tips on how to prepare for each stage. There was so much information, so I won't go into details - PLUS if you are reading this and our going through the process of Chaplaincy then you will get to learn ALL about it when you attend CHBOLC Spouse's Seminar!

The Family Life Chaplain was the one who presented the information and it was equally good to know if my husband or myself ever needed to seek additional help we could go and see our own Family Life CH on the post where Aron was serving. This seemed to be a concern on everyone's minds because a few other spouses' asked this question. Again, reassuring!

Lunch was served by the PWOC (Protestant Women of the Chapel). There goal is to work along the side of the CH to serve the needs of soldiers and their families. I had the pleasure of sitting next to a wife who had just PCSed to Ft Jackson and her husband was attending the Career Course for the promotion to Major. She said they unpacked everything even though they will only be there a little over 6 months. Also, she talked about homeschooling in the military and how it has been wonderful for them. Many women have said in the military life it is still easy to homeschool. It's something Aron and I talk about, so it was encouraging to hear.

Then, we had a class on customs, such as going through a receiving line. The banquet was Wednesday night and we were to go through the receiving line. It was a bit nerve racking at first, but I realized they are forgiving and we were ALL new to this so thankfully LOTS of grace. Everyone did well and I will end with saying the Banquet was a blast! It was fun seeing all the spouses dressed up with their significant other! And of course then pinning our spouse with the CH pin. We also had the previledge to have our good friend Sgt Major from seminary with us! Aron was so glad he was able to attend and be there at such a meaningful moment!

CHBOLC Spouse Seminar Day 2

2009-12-11T13:04:00.000-06:00

The first REAL day of CHBOLC Spouse's Seminar! I was a little bit worried because it was a WHOLE day long. 0800-1645. Plus, our schedule looked intense with more information that I was sure I would know what to do with.

As did everyday, today started off with a devotional, continental breakfast, and of course socializing! When we came in we had to find our partner for the ice breaker activity where everyone gave information about their spouse (Active Duty, Reserves, or Guard), where they lived or where moving to, and then things like hobbies, profession, and favorite color.

From there we rode a bus to have a group picture outside the schoolhouse and then walk through the Chaplain Museum (very cool!). Lunch was also served all three days - Tuesday we sat with a current CH spouse and were able to ask questions. Then the "meat" of the course followed lunch. I won't go into the details, but they addressed TRICARE, Military terms and acryonms, different military rank and the structure of the military, AFTB (Army Family Team Building), moving, and military and social life. Again lots of good information and if you have any questions I am not an expert but I will do my best to help!

CHBOLC Spouse Seminar Day 1

2009-12-10T15:46:00.002-06:00

It really should be titled.. Phew!

Overall, the experience was awesome. Lots of useful information and lots of wonderful socializing! The socializing and meeting other spouses was so uplifting. I originally began this website in the hopes of connecting to other army chaplain spouses, and now I have had the privilege to connect with so many in person. Again, truly a blessing. I'm going to break down the days and if there are people out there reading this with question either leave a comment or shoot me an email (simplylauren07@gmail.com)

Monday: This will depend on your spouse's platoon. My husband's platoon had all the spouses meet that afternoon and we car-a-vaned to a cemetery - weird I thought too, but actually it was powerful. This SGL (small group leader) gave a quick message at the grave site of Civil War Chaplain from the Confederate Army. He proceeded to discuss this man's dedication to the position and then expanded upon the journey that our spouse and ourselves will embark upon. Not only was it uplifting, but it was also an excellent precursor to the events that followed during the week. After that many of us went out to dinner; another great time of fellowship and meeting the others that have been hanging with my husband these 3 months (2 of the guys are also PCSing to Carson)

I've decided to break this up into a few posts because it is getting lengthy!! AND if you're like me I have trouble sitting reading a LONG blog post. Therefore, over the next few days I will post a new post about each day. Also, please keep our family in prayer as we head westward to our finally resting place - Fort Carson, Colorado! Can't believe it's already time.

Praise the Lord for all His goodness and trials during the journey and Praise Him for all that will come as we continue to follow Him.

south carolina!

2009-12-07T09:34:00.004-06:00

I can't believe I am sitting here typing this from South Carolina! This weekend was awesome. Just being able to hang out in our own little "home" has been priceless. Saturday my flight was literally perfect. StL to Atlanta was quick and I sat next to a Christian woman who was only a few years older than me; I was thankful for the time of fellowship we had, plus introduced her to IHOP and all about the HOPs! :) I'm planning on sending her a few tracks to get her hooked on prophetic worship music. Then when arriving to Atlanta, I boarded my flight to South Carolina after waiting 10 minutes. It was so nice. And on the SMALL plane (yikes!) I sat next to a woman who's husband has been in the Air Force for 17 years. She had a lot of military wisdom.

And now I'm here in Columbia! Aron and I had a fun weekend hanging out, walking around the Fort, saw Blind Side, went to a War Museum in Columbia on how SC participated in each war and there was a 3D WW2 slideshow (amazing pictures!). And of course had Mexican - yum!

Today, Aron is learning about ministering to single soldiers while I sit back at the hotel and take care of paperwork. It is tough being so close and not being able to be together. I think that's why I am so looking forward to our journey westward. I am excited about the Spouses seminar, but I know at the end of it is unlimited time with my husband!

I will try to be diligent about blogging about the seminar since I know there are people out there that may be walking down this path one day. And I know these blogs can be VERY informative and a useful resource for treading into this unknown and foreign land (where a trumpet plays over speakers at different hours of the day!)

packed up and movin' out...

2009-12-03T07:36:00.004-06:00

Quick Update! :)

Wow, this week has flown by. I can't believe it's already Thursday! The packers came on Monday (a mix up in paperwork and communication, since they were suppose to come Tuesday), but my dad came home from work so I could tie up all those loose ends so the packers could complete the entire job that day. It worked out fine; just a surprise in life when the doorbell rang at 8am and I was still in my PJs! Then, the movers came Wednesday and it went smoothly; thankfully, the rain held off until they were completely done loading!

Also, prayer request! Our loan went to the underwriter for our home yesterday afternoon or this morning... SO please be praying everything goes smoothly!! This is our first home buying experience and it is very exciting, but also treading through foreign territories!

And I leave Saturday to be finally reunited with Aron for a long while! Praise the Lord!!!

one, is no longer a lonely number.

2009-11-25T10:09:00.003-06:00

Ha so, I went to type this blog and type out one... and that song 'one is the the loneliest number...' popped into my head; therefore, the title. Ah spontaneity!

Tonight Aron touches down in St Louis. Eek! Honestly, I'm at a loss of words because I am so excited! AhhH! :)

With little words to speak I will leave you with this... HAPPY THANKSGIVING! May we all be able to count the blessings that surround us; may we see the hand of God in all events of our life; may we continue to seek His face and ask for the gifts from heaven! Praise the One who is worthy to be praised; whom every blessing originates from!

t-w-o!

2009-11-23T18:41:00.004-06:00

two... 2... TWO!!! yay!

So today the moving company came to assess our stuff. Oh my, really? It was very real that we are moving. One week and one day they will be here to move all our stuff. Surreal. Over a two year journey towards the Army and Dec 1st our stuff will be packed. Isn't God faithful? He is rewarding all of my husband's hard work in loosing all of that weight. How awesome!

And the other night I was talking to Aron one last time before he headed into the field for some training, aka no communication with the wife until Wednesday night when he goes to the airport. At one point in the conversation I paused and said "when did you learn all of this?" I was referring to all this military lingo that is seriously a foreign language to me. It's all jibberish hitting a non-existent schema in my brain. (Oh Lord give me supernatural military knowledge!) All in all it was awesome to hear him so confident explain brigades and what-not... see no comprehension... but I love it. I love his new knowledge! I love seeing him learn! Furthermore, he loves it - so I am one joy-filled wife!

P.S. Pray for those who may be spending the holidays alone, that the Great Comforter would rest upon their homes, inhabit their souls, and give them peace that surpasses all understand. Lord, I ask for all the souls of those who are spending the holidays alone - that they would not only come to know you Jesus, but their hearts would burn with a love-sick relationship with you.

P.S.S. If you haven't seen what's going on IHOP check out their website (www.ihop.org); they are having major healings and serious encounters with the Most High God. He is ALIVE and performing His miracles as He did in the Gospel AND the Holy Spirit is ALIVE flowing as it did in the book of Acts. Oh Lord let this revival spread throughout the nations! Holy Spirit spread like a fire upon our hearts! Baptize us Lord in deeper ways; let our spirit cry out to You the ONE TRUE GOD!

P.S.S.S. JESUS IS AFTER YOUR HEART - Will you open your fortified wall and let him in to do what only He can do?

just three.

2009-11-22T18:25:00.004-06:00

5, 4, 3 more days until he returns...

Below are three facebook status' from my beloved husband that make me fall in love with him over and over again. What's not to love about a man who loves the Lord most High! So, three facebook status' for both the three days that past and for the three more days we must endure until we are reunited!

Nov. 13th 2009: "Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, Jesus Christ and the American GI. One died for your soul, the other for your freedom."

Nov. 11th 2009: "True Freedom can be experienced every day in Christ.... In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning, All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created. Life was in Him and that life was the light of men. That light shines in the darkness, yet the darkness did not overcome it.... John 1:1-5."

Oct. 30th 2009: "I have discovered that the most important and meaningful part of my uniform is my wedding ring."

6 days.

2009-11-19T13:06:00.004-06:00

Could also be titled "sick" days because the last few days I have not been feeling well. My throat is super sore and super swollen, so I'm headed to the doctor's this afternoon to hopefully kick this sickness before it can settle in!! Don't want to be sick when Aron comes! No way. Probably the reason I have babied this a little more than normal...

I can't say I have a topic for six days and counting, I definitely feel the anxiousness of the return of my beloved. There are few passing moments where I don't get all excited internally knowing that with each passing minute we are closer to seeing one another. Also, I have reflected on being away from one another for almost three months and try to comprehend what 12 months will be like. It seems unbearable and impossible. A glimpse of reality is that the inevitable is lurking in 2010. I know God's grace will be more than enough to get us through those months, but for now 6 days is just a hop, skip and a jump away! yay! I love rhyming!

November: Military Family Month

2009-11-17T21:50:00.005-06:00

MILITARY FAMILY MONTH, 2009

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

No one pays a higher price for our freedom than members of our Nation’s military and their families. As sons and daughters, husbands and wives, and mothers and fathers are deployed, military families endure with exceptional resilience and courage. They provide our troops with invaluable encouragement and love, and serve our Nation in their own right. During Military Family Month, we honor the families of our Armed Forces and thank them for their dedication to our country.

Though only a small percentage of our Nation’s population, our troops bear the great responsibility of protecting our people. They, along with their families, serve us every day with courage and dignity. Ensuring that military families receive the respect they deserve and the support they have earned is a top priority for my Administration.

The strength of our Nation is measured not just by our success on the battlefield, but also by our ability to support those families who have made so many sacrifices for us. Time and again, military families have shown their heart in the face of adversity. We have a solemn obligation to ensure that while our men and women in uniform discharge their duties, we do all we can to promote and preserve the well-being of their families. We must also support the families of our wounded warriors and our fallen heroes who have paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy.

This month, we celebrate the tremendous contributions of military families, convey to them our deepest respect and appreciation, and recommit ourselves to their support.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2009 as Military Family Month. I call on all Americans to honor military families through private actions and public service for the tremendous contributions they make in the support of our service members and our Nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

November is truly a month of thankfulness and therefore what a perfect month to celebrate and honor military families! As I am enduring the 3 months away from my husband while he finishes up CHBOLC training, I have a greater appreciation for military families! What a sacrifice!

To all of you military families out there - THANK YOU for all you do on the home front while our soldiers are away.

PS. 7 days; one week!! :)

a countdown is necessary...

2009-11-17T17:57:00.003-06:00

While my blogging has been below par for the duration of my husband's training, I have decided to begin a countdown to the days that he flies in for Thanksgiving. Today is...

8 more days!

It's difficult to comprehend there are only 8 days that stand between me and my love. This journey has been one of many challenges and changes, it has one that the Lord has orchestrated like a beautiful symphony. The emotional parts of the heartache were consistent throughout the melody, but the great work woven into both our hearts will ever remain a continuous hymn. And in a few weeks the masterpiece will be completed and a new song will begin... I'm thinking something a little more Western this time around as we head westward from South Carolina to Colorado! Oh thank the Lord our journey is not in a wagon!

who competes with the most high God?

2009-11-10T08:29:00.003-06:00

He is after my heart. There can be no others. He is a God of love, mercy and war! He fights after for my wretched heart. He pursues; unrelenting. All idols are destroyed at the sight of His beauty. Who is this King of glory? Who comes with His sword of truth to pierce through the lies we hold onto. I gaze upon Him and His heart swells; it beats my name. One glance of my weak eyes, He rejoices and calls me perfect. Oh who competes with the most high God?

I have finally decide to just sit down at the keyboard and let what keeps stirring in me to flow freely. When I talked about all these random thoughts that circulate within me like little articles of my heart, here is the production of one. Raw, yes, but straight from the heart. (Okay I edited a line or two to clarify!). I have found myself slowly backing out of the world I live in, not excluding myself in a safe environment, but giving up the idols that this world places upon us. The internet has been a huge contender for my affections... the typing of that makes me even more sick than I already felt. I no longer am on facebook; my husband has locked the vault that was stealing hours away from my first Love. (not preaching everyone must give up facebook! It's a great tool, unless it becomes a time sucking enemy as it became with me). Since the key has been thrown away (aka my password), I have felt more freedom to spend time doing other things away from my computer desk. I just pray that my time with the Lord increases and I continue to spend my short time on this earth more wisely!

As for an update -- Aron was in a car accident several weeks ago and his neck is still healing. Doc says to give it until January. We both know that God's hand is upon this situation and we are trusting Him, but please keep him in your prayers that there would be a perfect and speedily healing. It is difficult for him not to participant like the other soldiers. Also, the car was totaled. Bummer. However, we are in the works of getting a new car. We are excited for things that God is placing on our hearts through this process. I believe we are sort of calling it a prophetic car! Oh I love Jesus.

And as for me. My parents and I are traveling to the wonderful state of Colorado in order to secure a home to dwell in come December! I'm excited to pick out a place to live. One prayer for me would be that all of the information for my teaching licenses (VA and CO) would finally come together smoothly. I feel it is one battle after the next of obtaining all the right papers and having to deal with different people. It's been a process I started back in September and has been extremely frustrating.

I pray all is well with all of you! For those of you already in the Army and your spouse is away, I pray a peace beyond all understanding to reside over your house and over your loved one whom is away; for those of you who have your loved one with you, I pray the hours you have together now are exponentially multiplied with great moments; for those of you awaiting a decision from the Army or getting all the paperwork together on your journey into the Chaplaincy, I pray a great patience that would prevail each day as you wait for the AWESOME plans God has for your lives, whether it is the Chaplaincy or not; and finally for all of you who aren't military related - be most blessed in your days and let the love of God consume your heart so that you overflow not in your own strength but in the heavenly Father who created you perfectly!

In Jesus' mighty name, Amen!

diligent at bloggin, I am not.

2009-10-01T20:18:00.002-05:00

My heart crys out for You the one true living God. The one who reigns above all and considers it important to speak to us. We are of dirt, You are God. Let Your fire burn within me oh Lord.

I was having so many random thoughts I just had to blurt some of it out and share this song I have been singing. (the youtube is the only one I could find, but I do enjoy it as well!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vr1FTQeRFfk

update.

2009-09-21T18:51:00.002-05:00

Aron has completed one week of CH-BOLC (yay!). It was mostly filled with paperwork, but this weekend and especially today began the more physical aspects of training. He is really loving the teamwork and competitions! My heart is overjoyed to hear my husband so happy with what he is doing; I pray this joy he is experiencing never fades and always brings the Lord glory!

As for me, I'm hanging in there pretty well. I'm excited about what God is preparing us for, yet feel like I'm on the sidelines cheering. Although it's a challenge, I need to realize this time apart is training for me as well. Not just the obvious preparing for the inevitable deployment, but that this new free alone time should be spent drawing closer to the Lord.

I was writing an email to a new friend today and sharing my journey in Christ when it dawned upon me that I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior in May 2006... only 3 years ago. For the majority of this journey I constantly feel behind my peers and am so hard on myself. I don't know it feels difficult to put into words, but just realizing this took off this self-placed pressure that I had placed on myself. And again a realization that comparing yourself to another persons walk is pointless, especially if you are comparing to people who have been saved for numerous years! With all this being said I am really wanting to get in the habit of reading my Bible everyday. Right now picking it up everyday is way more important than how many chapters I'm reading. Ah, I love when God points things out to me and just makes me relax. He saves souls, not me... I'm just a vessel.

one week down... twelve to go...

on his way!

2009-09-12T13:01:00.003-05:00

Aron is on his way. He left yesterday and stayed with some friends in Kentucky before continuing on to SC. He will get there about 5:00pm! I know he is so excited and a bit tired of driving. Thankfully, we will be making the trip back together so he won't have to drive the entire thing alone. (AND no joke I just answered the phone after typing this he called and said "You're time to drive now" haha!!) Wish I was there with him to help out.

Keep him in your prayers as he embarks on this new and exciting journey!

3 days to departure...

2009-09-07T19:43:00.002-05:00

Really? 3 days? Unfortunately so...

So, Aron is pretty much set (hopefully!) for CHBOLC. We did several errands this weekend to make sure he was set to go. I'm just so thankful for God's provision from last year. We were able to save money to cover all of the costs associated with sending him to Ft Jackson for 3 months. And from all my awesome couponing a year ago, we cut down on a lot of cost for items he would have needed anyways! Praise God! He continues to provide and be faithful! :)

Although my heart is sad to see my husband go, I'm ready to see what God does in both of us in our time apart. I pray we both are prepared for this journey God is placing before us. All of it is so exciting. Just to see God work in both of us for the glory of His name; to see other come to know the loving-kindness that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ!

In another breath... we had our delicious free Chick-fil-a sandwiches today. Along with others we were sporting our Cardinals gear; it was also refreshing to see so many Mizzou fans (go tigers!). My brother's girlfriend came with - it was a blast. Great way to spend some time together! After a delicious and cheap meal we head to look at a Goodwill store. And I found $3 pants... let me repeat $3 pants from Limited looking brand stinkin' new! $3. Okay, so being 6'1 finding pants is NOT easy and NOT cheap. So $3 pants that need the hem taken out that fit well is ammmmazing! I believe I have been converted to Goodwill shopping. I can't stand paying full price as it is! It was very exciting!!

Keep us in your prayers, especially for Aron as he embarks on being processed into the Army! Blessings to you all!

8 days.

2009-09-03T06:08:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Aron swore into the Army as a 1st Lt (picture to come). How exciting. It was a bit surreal. As he stood and said his oath as the StL arch and Busch stadium were his backdrop I couldn't help but beam with pride for my dedicated husband. This road has been long (2 years) with many struggles, but here he is, swearing in and dedicating it all for the glory of Jesus in the Army. Can't help but smile and pray the Lord uses him mightily! Oh Lord, I pray you speak through Him, Your light shine through him, and that many come to know Your love and prescene!

As exciting as yesterday was a reality finally sank in. Today marks 8 days until Aron leaves for basic training at Fort Jackson. I've been in denial. MAJOR denial. I'm use to him being around, so in my mind I can't comprehend him leaving. Who will I jump on and be embraced when I come home? Three months; ugh. Unfortunately, I won't be able to visit him until the very end. Almost all the blogs I've read they were able to visit other times, but it's just not possible for me. It's too far for me to drive by myself (especially considering I fell asleep driving downtown StL - about 30 minutes yesterday). And of course it's too expesive to fly for a weekend. However, I'm counting my blessings because I'm saving to be there for when the spouses are invited and graduation. That will be an exciting time!

So back to the 8 days. I know he is pumped about getting there and learning. We are both not ready for the 3 month separation. Thankfully, I am with family so I can't get too lonely, but still it's not the same when your man is gone. I know God will use this time to continue to reshape both of us in preparation to the journey the lies ahead of us.

Now, it's off to work. Oh Lord, give me the patience and continue to humble me as I struggle with not having my own classroom. Lord, help me to be a blessing to all who are in the classroom and that I interactive with on a day-to-day basis. All the glory is Yours!

unrelenting obedience.

2009-09-01T21:02:00.003-05:00

The title of my post is to express my hearts cry at this moment. Unrelenting is defined: "Having or exhibiting uncompromising determination."

One day the Lord gave me a vision that at times I sway with the wind at times with my faith, not wanting to offend others, to seek the approval of man, and to ensure the comforts of my flesh. It hurt... a lot. I knew I accepted Jesus and wanting nothing else, nothing less. As much as the burn stung, I couldn't help but praise Him. God of the universe wants to help me in my insecurities... how humbling. In the end it was more clear. Yes, I had a tendency to please man before Him. Now that the darkness was blindingly bright, there was nothing else to do but repent before Him and cling to His garments as He pulls me up to stand upon the firm foundation of the Rock.

My prelude leads to within the last months we have been in StL I can feel God doing a new thing... isn't He always? :) As I see more clearly, I'm trying to run without ceasing towards Him, but there has always been a stopping point... the flesh. So many times I feel as though there are two me's. The Lauren that is unrelenting obedient, prays without ceasing, worships unashamedly, allows the Word to seep into the depths of her very being. Then there is fleshy Lauren, who hits snooze too many times to get up to spend 2 seconds with her Creator, who is ashamed to pull out her Bible in certain settings (especially school), who wants to make sure she spends enough time with family, who needs to eat every meal of every day, etc...

Over our vacation I finished Watchman Nee's book "The Breaking of the Outer Man and the Release of the Spirit." (highly recommended) And I how I just want God to continue to break my outer man and to let His spirit be released through me. I don't want a 20 year process, I want what it takes. God has too much to offer me to say "no, I'm tired,"

1 Corinthians 2:9 "But as it is written: “ Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”

I love Jesus and I'm seeking all He has for me! Please pray Isaiah 40:28-31 over me:

"Have you not known?
Have you not heard?
The everlasting God, the LORD,
The Creator of the ends of the earth,
Neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is unsearchable.
²⁹ He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength.
³⁰ Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
And the young men shall utterly fall,
³¹ But those who wait on the LORD
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint."

inner voice.

2009-08-12T17:27:00.006-05:00

http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=8281792

If you didn't catch my facebook status here is the link that I suggest you watch. Most of my life I have worked with children with Autism and even more recently was a young boy who was nonverbal. This clip by ABC really touched my heart in deep ways. I just loved hearing this young teenage girl express herself and give us insight to what it is really like to be Autistic. I can't thank the Lord enough for this girl and that she now has a way to communicate with all of us!

One thing she said that really impacted me was this:
"People look at me and assume I'm dumb, because I can't talk"

Then this scripture came to mind - 1 Corinthians 1:27-31
"But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."

Her words are so profound. Thank you Jesus for giving this girl a voice! I pray this blesses you today like it has blessed me! :)

latest.

2009-08-05T21:55:00.002-05:00

Okay, these last few weeks have been out of the norm. God is still faithful and good. This is what has been pulling me through this time. I figured an update was in need especially now that Aron is checking my blog and saying he has been on it three times with no update. oops!

We are in gear to run through August. So much on the calendar already! We are heading to Colorado this weekend to secure a home; most likely a townhome. It's so exciting for us because we will finally have to space we have wanted throughout the many apartments we've lived in. We'll see - I'll update when we get back. Also, all pictures will be on hold until further notice. Our USB cord for a our camera is MIA - somewhere in the shuffle of our stuff.

After coming back from Colorado we have about a week with my grandparents here, then off to Mexico! This is our much needed honeymoon/yay we graduated trip! We can't wait to just take a week off and relax together on the beach, in the pool, etc. enjoying food and drinks! Seriously we are so looking forward to this!

And finally, a trip down to Texas to make Aron a resident and establish this as his home state. We decided this would be most fitting since he was born in Dallas, his dad is there and his endorser is also stationed there. We are stoked to have Texas plates on the cars! I love our relatives out there!

Phew, okay so unfortunately I'm sure this month is going to fly by. At the end of all of this I'll begin sub-teaching and Aron will be seriously preparing to leave for Fort Jackson CH-BOLC training for 13 weeks. It'll be a new challenge in our marriage to be separate for that long. We just over came a month of separation, but yikes three seems incredibly longer. I know God's grace will be there. Thankfully, I'll have family around and people at church!

Hope to get in a better groove with posting; I genuinely miss just sitting and typing out my heart.

we're moving.

2009-07-11T09:45:00.005-05:00

We are moving to Fort Carson, Colorado!!

I think I can get use to mountain living! :)

Actually, we are in awe of the Lord because not only was Aron assessed Active Duty, but he will also be going to Chaplain Basic in September, and then we'll be moving to our number one choice Fort Carson! God has just been incredibly faithful; we are both standing in awe.

saved by grace.

2009-07-09T15:51:00.002-05:00

I am well into "vacation mode" now. After getting back from Texas I decided that this was my week to do... nothing! I worked so hard this school year and felt I needed a little down time. I have to say I am enjoying every minute of it. I spend my days lounging, crocheting, reading, hanging out with my mom, and a few household chores here and there. Anyways, it's wonderful to kick back and relax.

So this week I finished my first book of the summer!! And when I say book, a book for fun NOT for school!! :) When my mom and I traveled back to MO from Virginia Beach, we stopped in Pigeon Forge, TN. They have TONS of outlet shopping, so we embraced it and had a blast. One place we went to was a Christian bookstore where all books were $5. There was a wide range of books too - I was thrilled! Additionally I found the book Captivating laying randomly on a shelf, sort of out of place. I couldn't believe it was there because I had been wanting to re-buy it after I let a friend borrow it and it was never returned. Oh I forgot to mention, it was the only one there in the store - I love when God does things like this; it's a great reminder that God is right there with me.

I was looking for a lighthearted book to start the summer off, my brain had been tortured enough from work and school. I ran across a very bright pink book called "The Yada Yada Prayer Group." It interested me because the back cover described an eclectic group of women coming together to pray, really the only thing they had in common was Jesus.

As I began reading, I would have moments where I couldn't put the book down and others where I would think just get to the point of all of this. In the end, I knew God was speaking to me through it. The main character, Jodi, has been walking in a Christian lifestyle for most of her life and towards the end she goes through a rough time. All in all, she realizes she is like the others in the group who led lives that included prison, drugs, divorce, etc.. That we are all sinners saved by His amazing grace.

Such a simple concept in Christianity. Heard over and over as we attend church and listen to worship songs, saved by grace. But unless these words hit the spirit, they are meaningless. For the rest of the week I have found myself meditating on veing saved by grace; that although I am a "good person" by a human definition that this doesn't ensure salvation. I alone cannot save myself, but He who rose from the dead on the third day can. Death can't hold Him down!

I pray that as I continue to yearn for His presence and that I begin to learn and know more of Him that I never forget that He is indeed who saved me and that I am washed in His blood and redemed because of His sacrifice.

handbook?

2009-07-02T08:44:00.001-05:00

A dear friend to hubby and I recommended a book for me: "The Army Wife Handbook"

Opening the pages and flipping through it you cannot help but laugh because some of the customs are slightly dated as well as seemingly ridiculous. Yet, as I read through it knowing a lot of these traditions are still going on today and I briefly I panic! I paged through the book finding the proper way to handle a coffee or tea gathering, but what if you actually don't like either. I could not find a section on how to handle this situation! Should I start forcing coffee each morning in order? They say it's an acquired taste?

Okay, I am just kidding because the book has everything you would ever need to know in it! Even how to meet people... 1. smile and appear friendly, 2. shake hands (later you will learn this should always be done without your glove on), 3. look the person in the eyes when you greet them, 4. call the person by name, 5. stay relaxed and natural, 6. listen to what the other person says, 7. say something nice when you part.

Now to me I thought it was just silly, but the chapter continues to give advice on how to remember names - something I could genuinely need some practice with! In all seriousness, I'm thinking it may come in handy to keep me in line at Army functions... :)

And if all else fails, my mom has advised me to just call Claudia Joy; ya know General Holden's wife? ha, I love her!

hurry up... and wait!

2009-06-30T10:41:00.003-05:00

When hubby received the call his recruiter explained the next step would be getting a phone call or email explaining when he would be going to CH-BOLC and also where our first duty station. But then he added to not get too excited because it'll be a "hurry up and wait" kind of deal. Hubby should have said no big deal; we are so use to that by now!

Waiting is not something I would consider to be one of my finer qualities. I have the patience to deal with a wide range of people, especially children, but waiting to for God... I have failed many times. I just want to take what I have into my own hands and control the outcome. A fear of just letting the Lord take complete control has been a constant struggle.

Back in May, when we found out we would have to wait ANOTHER month, I thought I was going to burst at every seam. How could we wait another month; had we not waited enough? We needed to know, we needed to make plans, arrangements, etc. Okay, I need to know so I can be at peace with our situation Lord!

Looking back, I almost laugh at my demanding attitude towards the Lord. Come on, like I knew best? Over the past month, I have had no choice but to lay my desires at His feet and surrender it all. I even got to a point where I was asking God to challenge my faith and trust in Him. And right now we stand in a place of minimal certainty. All we know is that Army bound we are; but when will this occur... who knows!

Currently, we both don't have jobs lined up for the fall and student loans on the way to our mailbox. Yet, no matter what happens I KNOW without a shadow of doubt that He will not leave us or forsake us. He knows when our bills are due, He knows we don't have jobs in line, He knows we have a lot of expenses ahead of us (such as uniforms!), He knows it all.

And I know I sit in the palm of His hand, so that is enough for me.

The Lord brought me back to this scripture this morning, so I thought it would be appropriate to share. Romans 5:3-5 "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

faithfulness.

2009-06-26T09:22:00.005-05:00

Well, the news is finally in....

Hubby received the phone call
yesterday that he has been accepted to serve as an
Active Duty Army Chaplain!!!!!!!!!!!!!

FINALLY! After 1.5 years of working out and losing almost 90 lbs, filling out tons of paperwork (some multiple times...), and just waiting for God to reveal His plan - WE ARE ARMY!

We are just so overwhelmed and so grateful. It really hasn't hit us completely yet. It's been a long time waiting. Thank you so much to those who have supported us in this long journey.

The recruiter that has been working with hubby explained that God has really been with him throughout this process and should feel extra blessed because they turned down a ton of applicants. I'm just in awe of His faithfulness... "Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see. All I have needed Thy hand hath provided; Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!"

On another note, I have been waiting for a yay or nay from the Army to create a new blog. I changed email addresses and am getting rid of the old one that is linked to this blog. Unfortunately, since I now have a gmail account I can't just simply change my email address... I'm still figuring out what I want to call it... as soon as I make it I will post a link! :)

and the waiting continue...

2009-05-14T16:49:00.004-05:00

Well, I said as soon as I found out I would post... unfortunately, there is no news.

Let me explain. The Army is moving their paperwork from papers to electronic, therefore 21 applicants paperwork or now electronic-work were not viewed. And yes you guessed it hubby was one of the 21 packets. I do not completely understand it all the technicalities. So the waiting continues. I was sadden when I found out just wanting to make sense of it all, but with an hour or two one by I can sit with more peace and reassurance that God's hand is upon it. The good news... hubby will be going to the board in June - they have promised this especially since it was the Army board who made the error and this will not count against him as one of the three times you can send your packet to the board. The bad new... well not necessarily bad, but the challenging part... more waiting.

I'm just praying this time will allow me to become more patient with God's plans for our lives. I have an extraordinary amount of patience for children, people with disabilities, etc. etc. BUT when it comes to life plans and planning events have the bare minimal. So, with this all said... deep sigh... time to be patient once again. I'm asking for prayers that I learn to be patient and continue to trust the Lord with His plans. It is difficult being a very organized person and quite the planner.

So, as of right now... I'll be applying for jobs in StLouis, hubby will accept a CPE year long program just in case and as of today the vacation we have been praying for (and God has been providing money for) is put on hold. In all of this, I can see God may have a reason for this board to have not completely met. Ah, another sigh. Come on June 16th (end of school) and June 23-24 for the June board!

There is the latest... once again I will update in June as soon as we know! :) As for now, God is still so good and He still is on the throne! HOOAH-lujah! (my new phrase via the COL that interviewed hubby!)

waiting.

2009-05-13T15:30:00.004-05:00

Well, every chaplain's wife has a waiting post in their blog, so I felt it was my time to write one. The board was held May 12th (yesterday). No word yet. Just waiting. Waiting is the theme to become an Army Chaplain.

The Lord says to be anxious for nothing, but make your prayers and petitions known to God. I feel joy and excitement to hear the truth of our situation. I know the Lord's hand is upon it all and am confident in the decision that was made at the board! God is so good and I look forward to going down the road he leads us!!

As soon as we know, I'll make a post! :)

God is good - no doubt about it.

2009-04-27T15:35:00.004-05:00

I can't believe April is already wrapping up! I was on the phone with my mom yesterday and she said I hadn't updated my blog since February... WOW, I couldn't believe it was that long ago when hubby went to MEPS. And at the same time this is a long process. I don't even know where to begin!

How about the quick stuff... the moving truck comes in 2 weeks (ah!), we walk for graduation May 9th (ah!), hubby begins his internship May 26, I have only one class and a portfolio left for my masters, school is out June 16th and my gracious mom and I will drive back to Missouri June 17th (I can't wait!!), OH and hubby goes to the board MAY 12TH!!!!!!! :)

So, hubby's mentor was in Fort Lewis having meetings and what not (he is a Sgt Major ret 30 yrs Chaplain Asst and does TONS of work with the Army still and has a rolladex of who's who in the Army Chaplain world). Anyways, he talked to hubby one night and explained how exciting it was that Chaplains are for the first time at 100%. This is great news, unless you are planning to go to the Boards soon... Not too long after the phone call we were in the car and trying to give it to the Lord and ask for peace that His hand is still in the situation when... we pulled up behind a van that had a sticker "FEAR NOT" with a cross on it. Hubby said I think God is trying to speak to us. Instantly we both had peace - it was exactly what we needed at the right time. Isn't God so good?! That sticker has sustained us and kept us focused that God is in control of our situation; He is so good and faithful to us.

Yesterday we drove up to Ft Monroe to look around and hubby wanted to make sure he knew where he was going for his interview today. It was absolutely beautiful! At one point I became so emotional and a little teary eyed being surrounded by the homes of brave men and women who go to fight for our country. I've know people in the military my whole life and been on military posts before, but this time it really hit me. I truly felt the calling at that moment. It was the reassurance I needed to head into this next phase. Again God is good, gives us what we need when we need it!

And finally, hubby said his interview went awesome! Said that the Col. will recommend him to the board and that he hopes to see him in September at CH-BOLC. Also, he said that he could tell that hubby's heart is really in this. I'm glad because God has sure put it there! Ha, all the military people we have run into and hubby has ministered to in the last year is almost ridiculous. Only God could have done it! That was great news. He is off with Sgt Maj. for a few days to do something I'm sure really cool.

Alright, time to get some more schoolwork done and move forward closer to our calling! :)

And on that note, God is just so very very very good!

Official!

2009-02-26T16:53:00.004-06:00

For those of you that did not know, hubby went to MEPS today. We both have had a great amount of peace as today approached. He left the day before and stayed in a hotel with a wonderful friend/mentor in his life, and was at the building for MEPS (I don't even know what it stands for! ha!) at 6:00. Apparently you stand in different lines and wait for each test. Hubby chose to do the taping last, but had tons of peace comforting him the whole time - isn't God so good? Anyways, ALL of his tests went well! He taped at 22%! I'M SO PROUD OF HIM!!!!!!!!!!

In just over a year, hubby has lost 85 pounds and OVER 10% in body fat! Isn't he amazing? Okay, I think so! He has worked so hard everyday making diet changes and working out extremely hard. He went from barely being able to run a half mile to running 1.5 miles, working out on the elptical for one hour, then running 1.5 miles back. Again amazing right? Okay, okay, okay I'll stop bragging about him - but I'm just so proud at how far he has come, his hard work, and his dedication! Continue to keep him in your prayers for the May Boards and hopefully CH-BOLC Fall 2009! :)