The past...the present and the future.

If you guys are reading this right before bedtime, then it's gonna be a great tool to help you snooze because I really need to catch up with my journaling. Oh my Lord! There has been so much going on, and so much still to do that I just don't know how I'm managing to keep up.

The 2nd day of the Revolve Tour with Amanda and her friend was AWESOME! I can't even put into words how incredibly freeing it is to be filled with the Spirit. The conference was meant for the teens, but God delivers messages to anyone who's heart is open to hearing them. And he did! I had been contemplating what my Lenten sacrifice would be since this is such a special time for me. I had some thoughts on what I should do but the sacrifice would be huge, way beyond giving up chocolate. He affirmed to me during the conference that what I had been praying on is what I needed help with, and now there is no doubt that He will make me a better person through these next forty days. I'm in need of spiritual healing and I'm excited!

I digress. I highly recommend anyone with a teenage daughter to go with them to this conference. It's fun and the messages are delivered loud and clear. Amanda had a blast and has already asked to go next year. Her favorite part? Listening to Chad Eastham speak The Truth About Guys. I have to say, he was pretty much on the money and we laughed the whole way through it. I'm so very proud of how Amanda is growing up. That's not to say that we aren't without challenges and there aren't days that end up with me praying hard that Jesus returns that night, but for the most part, she's a terrific kid and I am indeed blessed.

Speaking of Jesus. Remember I had mentioned that my MIL was coming into town and I had been doing lots of praying. Well, I have to say that I had been a bit leary of her visit since it's been quite a while since we've seen her. She really has not given much attention to the kids since they joined the family so I wasn't sure what to expect.

I had been talking to the kids about Grandma and how she was their Daddy's Mommy. So, when they met, it almost appeared like they kenw exactly who she was. They smothered her in great big bear hugs and kisses and easily won her heart. It was a wonderful visit. So much so, that I was not only sad to see her leave, but asked her to come again soon and spend a longer time with us. The icing on the cake? Being told that we are doing an "excellent job" raising the little ones! Prasie God! Not that I'm too much into what other's think, but she is family and I think it's so important for the kids not only to know, love and respect my side of the family, but Scott's also. Unfortunately, she is the only family member on Scott's side that has met the kids and the boys have been home for almost 2 years now. They have a 20 year old sister that they don't even know exists. That saddens me, and I'm sure it saddens Scott also, but I've learned to accept the things that I cannot control and just continue to ask God to annoint all of us and that His will be done.

Let's see. What else? Oh! Yes, I tried forgetting, but I know I need to fess up and be humble. Congrats to all the Giants' fans out there. WHAT A GAME! There were about 15 people at the house. I would say about 50/50 as to Patriots or Giants fans. I think it's the fact that I was just so darn sure we would win, that when the Giants scored with less than a minute left, we all just sat there dumbfounded. My heart sank, mostly for my sweet husband. But, the Giants played a great game and were definitely the better team. There's always next year!

UGH! I have to cut this post short, since these critters have decided to nap half the time that they usually do. I will be posting pictures of our SuperBowl get-together, the kids with their Grandma and some pics of my Dad's birthday/wedding celebration, so check back soon.

Oh! And Saturday I have an appointment to take Anna Grace & Kai for Chinese New Years pictures. I can't wait!

Gotta run, the yelling for "Mama" has increased by 100 decibels.

God bless!