We made it to my sister Julie's for an afternoon and evening. My nephew Daniel and his wife Lindsay were home from Hawaii (They are stationed there). Daniel returned from Iraq two weeks after Jay was deployed. It was nice to be with the family, We missed my niece Christina... as she is having Christmas in the Canary Islands.
Jay was able to Skype with us while we visited. Daniel and Jay talked Army. I learned more than I wanted to about Andrew. I did not realize that after Andrew returns from basic and AIT that he will be training for Afghanistan. deep sigh... Daniel and Andrew will be at Ft. Benning at the same time, while Daniel goes to ranger school.
Lindsay and I were able to talk... ARMY too ;-) She shared with me how the last 2 months of Daniel's deployment, were the most emotional for her. It felt so good hearing that because as you can tell... I have been a wreck the last few weeks.
Monday, December 28, 2009
"Grandma"
Isaiah 46:4
Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
We went up to St. Paul, to visit my mom. It has been awhile since we have seen her. I knew it was going to be difficult visit; her health has deteriorated in the past few months. Once we introduced ourselves she seemed some what familiar with us. Her eyes lit up once she saw the kids, and she commented on my hair, she liked my scarf, She told me I had a big mouth, lol! (I was talking too loud) I told her I got my big mouth from her... She LAUGHED. Mom still has her sarcasm and humor.
I told her that it was really hard for me to see her like this... she paused, turned her head and was emotional... Mom was "with me". She was unable to carry on a conversation however; I could say one sentence and she could follow me for a few minutes, then her head would lay back as she curled up into the bed. When she saw Tyler, she said, "oh my he is big... how much does that boy weigh"? I laughed once we left and Praised God, that she didn't ask me that question. :-)
Reign warmed up to her after a little bit and referred to her as grandma. The sound of "Grandma" coming out of her mouth, warmed my heart. Reign will not have any grandparents alive once my mom passes away.
As most of you know, My dad lived with us the last 6 months of his life. If I could I would move her in, However it is just not an option. The boys learned so much while grandpa lived here. I cherish those moments.
Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
We went up to St. Paul, to visit my mom. It has been awhile since we have seen her. I knew it was going to be difficult visit; her health has deteriorated in the past few months. Once we introduced ourselves she seemed some what familiar with us. Her eyes lit up once she saw the kids, and she commented on my hair, she liked my scarf, She told me I had a big mouth, lol! (I was talking too loud) I told her I got my big mouth from her... She LAUGHED. Mom still has her sarcasm and humor.
I told her that it was really hard for me to see her like this... she paused, turned her head and was emotional... Mom was "with me". She was unable to carry on a conversation however; I could say one sentence and she could follow me for a few minutes, then her head would lay back as she curled up into the bed. When she saw Tyler, she said, "oh my he is big... how much does that boy weigh"? I laughed once we left and Praised God, that she didn't ask me that question. :-)
Reign warmed up to her after a little bit and referred to her as grandma. The sound of "Grandma" coming out of her mouth, warmed my heart. Reign will not have any grandparents alive once my mom passes away.
As most of you know, My dad lived with us the last 6 months of his life. If I could I would move her in, However it is just not an option. The boys learned so much while grandpa lived here. I cherish those moments.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Christmas Eve Afternoon ~ a little lady
The Eve of Christmas Eve. Reign and I made a turkey, "BOOKMARK [Reign called the uncooked turkey a shark] I love 2 year olds, love their perception on life, end of BOOKMARK" we also made a few more Christmas cookies and snacks to carry us through the Holidays [just encase] we were snowed in.
We did venture out Christmas Eve, afternoon to join My Army Wife Friend, and her family for lunch. It was nice to meet her family in person...
The "One" that tugged on my heart strings, was an elderly lady that was there; She has Alzheimer's. My heart ached for her... It seemed as some really did not know how to respond, maybe embarrassed; some didn't even know she was there. I just wanted to hug her and bless her... [crying as I type this] It was very emotional for me. I LOVE and miss working with the elderly. It does not matter their mental condition... I have a new respect for them, honoring them in their latter years. I have learned so much from this people group and treasure their wisdom. One thing that I noticed about her and others that have Alzheimer's [if they know Him] they DO NOT FORGET... Who Jesus Christ, IS. She referred to her Heavenly Father most of the afternoon. Lord, bless this little lady... (tears) deep sigh...
We made it home in time to try and shovel the MOUND of snow in our driveway. Snow blower is broken, Andrew had been up since three o'clock that morning shoveling snow for work. He was exhausted. Tyler injured his shoulder weight lifting, so he is in a lot of pain. Caleb tries and works so hard, and me... well, shoveling and my level of lung function just does not mix. We decided that we were not going anywhere to soon and the snow defiantly wasn't going anywhere, so we came inside for some Hot chocolate.. well, at least I had some hot chocolate! :-)
Our Skype… Christmas Eve
In Minnesota it was 6:00pm. The boys eagerly moved the Christmas gifts from the living room to the computer room. In Iraq it was 3:00 am. Jay got up extra early; he walked over to the computer lab; to have Christmas Eve, with his family via Skype.
2 months ago I thought I could not handle opening gifts over Skype, I cried just thinking about it, and thought it was too emotional. Jay, and I talked about it and we were going to wait to have Christmas, for when he came home. As the weeks went on… I was getting stressed out about ‘CHANGE” My OCD was kick’n in and the change was more stressful than the thought of a Skype Christmas.
The computer lab wasn’t too busy; we were able to have Jay, to ourselves for almost 4hours. It was nice to have him “here with us” while the kids opened up their gifts.
Jay and I had a few minutes alone… face to face on the computer, just staring at each other, satisfying, the visual senses. Missing each other like crazy… more torment than anything… UGH!
Jay usually will call me every night … just to say goodnight. We do not have much time on the phone. His schedule is very busy. After we Skyped he called me and tucked me into bed… He is so sweet. I LOVE HIM SO MUCH!
The T-shirt..
Early in the deployment I sent Jay a half used bottle of my perfume. He told me that he sprayed it in his wall locker. When he opened his locker he could smell me… deep sigh…
Once Jay, went back to Iraq, after his leave time. I slept with one of his gently used t-shirts. After awhile it didn’t smell like him anymore… Guess what that man did? He sent me a gently worn Army t-shirt, sprayed with his cologne. I have kept that t-shirt in the baggy, in my top dresser drawer… un-opened, until Christmas Eve….I should not have done it, the tears came like a flood!
Christmas Day:
I made our annual Christmas morning breakfast, and the children awoke to the smell of bacon and eggs. I was a glutton for punishment… while Reign napped and the boys dispersed, I watched the movie “The Notebook”. The LOVE and then meeting that little lady yesterday… OM Goodness! Talk about a wreck?! :-) its all so good though…. He bottles them all up, and it is so healing to cry. I knew it was coming. One can only hold back the tears for so long…
Be blessed this Christmas, hug those little old ladies and LOVE your spouses. Don’t hold BACK….
Once Jay, went back to Iraq, after his leave time. I slept with one of his gently used t-shirts. After awhile it didn’t smell like him anymore… Guess what that man did? He sent me a gently worn Army t-shirt, sprayed with his cologne. I have kept that t-shirt in the baggy, in my top dresser drawer… un-opened, until Christmas Eve….I should not have done it, the tears came like a flood!
Christmas Day:
I made our annual Christmas morning breakfast, and the children awoke to the smell of bacon and eggs. I was a glutton for punishment… while Reign napped and the boys dispersed, I watched the movie “The Notebook”. The LOVE and then meeting that little lady yesterday… OM Goodness! Talk about a wreck?! :-) its all so good though…. He bottles them all up, and it is so healing to cry. I knew it was coming. One can only hold back the tears for so long…
Be blessed this Christmas, hug those little old ladies and LOVE your spouses. Don’t hold BACK….
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
"The Wives Who Wait".
Twas the night before Christmas
And there all alone
I saw a young woman
Who sat by the phone
For what was she waiting
On this holiday night
Where were the stockings
Christmas tree, lights?
I saw one little tear
As it rolled down her face
And she curled up in a blanket
Then looked round the place
Something was missing
Someone not here
In her face I saw sadness
Did I also see fear?
I paused and I wondered
What could it be?
That would cause a young woman
To look so lonely
How could anyone so precious
Choose such a life?
Then I realized this woman
Was a soldiers wife.
Her gift for this Christmas
Is to hear that phone ring
“Hey baby, I miss you
Don’t worry about a thing”
Each day I thank God for the soldiers that serve
Ever willing to fight and lay down his life
But how often do I ever remember think
About the young woman who is that soldier's wife
Thank you God for these women
They are just as strong
They sacrifice daily
And without help get along
So God please protect our soldiers
On this holiday eve so late
And give an extra hug
To their wives who wait
written by Jeannie Lining, during OEF deployment 2008
And there all alone
I saw a young woman
Who sat by the phone
For what was she waiting
On this holiday night
Where were the stockings
Christmas tree, lights?
I saw one little tear
As it rolled down her face
And she curled up in a blanket
Then looked round the place
Something was missing
Someone not here
In her face I saw sadness
Did I also see fear?
I paused and I wondered
What could it be?
That would cause a young woman
To look so lonely
How could anyone so precious
Choose such a life?
Then I realized this woman
Was a soldiers wife.
Her gift for this Christmas
Is to hear that phone ring
“Hey baby, I miss you
Don’t worry about a thing”
Each day I thank God for the soldiers that serve
Ever willing to fight and lay down his life
But how often do I ever remember think
About the young woman who is that soldier's wife
Thank you God for these women
They are just as strong
They sacrifice daily
And without help get along
So God please protect our soldiers
On this holiday eve so late
And give an extra hug
To their wives who wait
written by Jeannie Lining, during OEF deployment 2008
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Sleigh Ride
Today we went to a Christmas Party for deployed soldiers, families. Caleb, Reign and I went on a sleigh ride with real reindeer... Reign love it!
Friday, December 18, 2009
Tyler's Turn :-)
Tyler was reading the blog and stated he felt left out...
So for my middle son... the 17 year old, my right hand, dependable, strong, honest, God loving and fearing young man... I. love. you. words cannot and never will explain how much you mean to me. This deployment has been a heavy load for you to carry and you have carried it with pride and strength. You have taken on roles that most youth your age could not handle. I am very proud of who you are and who you have become...
Muah Hugs and Kisses to you!
Tyler read this entry, before I posted it. I asked him if he feels better now, he gives me a smirk and says yep! precious even at 17!
Moving containers, containers and more containers
The wonderful non ending line of shipping containers = one day closer to Jay coming home!
General Nash
Here is a picture of SSG Harmon and General Nash. General Nash is the General that is leading this mission in Iraq. Some how he is related to the president of our American Legion Club. General Nash remembered that Jay lives in the same community as his family. :-)
When Jay and I were in Seattle, we ran into General Nash, at the PX. He stopped and shook our hand, seemed interested in meeting me, and stood and talked with us for quite sometime, about a whole lot of nothing (that meant a whole lot of EVERYTHING to us). He then said, "well don't let me interrupted your time together, you don't want to be talking with me... ah HELLO?! We were ready to have dinner with the guy and hang out!
In Iraq, the General slapped Jay on the back to say "Hey Harmon, how are you doing? "after the steak dinner Jay, met up with him for a quick photo...
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Basketball Season
Caleb has started basketball... he has been doing great with rebounding and lay-ups. He is a natural just like Jay, and the boys! The LC Wildcats, have played four games thus far and are undefeated. We really miss dad's voice in the crowd, encouraging Caleb, and yelling at the coach and refs. It's kinda funny for me to see other fan's reactions to Jay's yelling when in fact that is not his normal personality. He is a lover not a fighter... except when HIS BOYS are on the court or field... then watch out. :-) I love that man, I cannot wait for him to come home!
During today's game, there was a man standing near the exit of the gym. from Reign's view he looked liked Jay. She tugged on my shirt and asked me..."is that my daddy?" I tried to ignore her, as I wiped a tear. Again, she asked, "mommy is that my daddy?" The gentlemen in front of me could hear our conversation... I almost started crying, I gently told her no, daddy is working in the desert. He will be home soon!
deep sigh..... :-(
During today's game, there was a man standing near the exit of the gym. from Reign's view he looked liked Jay. She tugged on my shirt and asked me..."is that my daddy?" I tried to ignore her, as I wiped a tear. Again, she asked, "mommy is that my daddy?" The gentlemen in front of me could hear our conversation... I almost started crying, I gently told her no, daddy is working in the desert. He will be home soon!
deep sigh..... :-(
The "Sisterhood" of the traveling "National Guard"
As Jay was getting ready for this deployment, I earnestly prayed for ONE, GODLY, CHRIST FOLLOWING, ARMY WIFE, and FRIEND. God is so faithful of course, he granted that request. He sent me ONE... I think the "BEST ONE".
I remember seeing her sitting across the table at the third FRG meeting. She seemed a little nervous, bold, eager to absorb her surroundings, cheerful, confident, she had a contagious smile, and she was constantly talking about JESUS... WHAT? I could not believe what I was hearing! NOT ANOTHER ONE OF THOSE LADIES THAT LOVES GOD? Could it be true? I asked her for her contact info, I called her a week later, telling her; "I NEED to get out of my house, and away from my kids before I hurt someone". I'm sure her first thought was, "I need to clean my house", too bad, there I was... at her door. We did not waste anytime. Our conversation went straight to HEART issues, the best conversations in the world. I love relationships like this... nothing to hide, we bared our heart and souls from 6pm until 1am. It was a "sisterhood" connection right from the start. We have so many of the same interests, it is almost scary... besides Jesus, deployed husbands, children of the same age, and similar house decor... we LOVE Cherry Coke!
The guys however, had never met and they worked on opposites ends of the base. While Jay was home in July, we were on a walk through Le Center, She called me concerned about a few new changes she had noticed in her hubby. I asked if Perkins sounded OK? and at 10pm at night... off we went. The guys were finally able to meet.
Our meeting was just a few days after the 3 MP's were killed on base. The guys talked and talked and talked... My friend and I just looked at each other and realized... Our Army men need each other... not just OUR men, all of the Soldiers. We decided we needed to make every effort to get the "guys" together after deployment... so they can talk, and we can listen.
I Praise God for His faithfulness, and sending me my... "Dex"
Oh, I almost forgot we have gone JEAN shopping.... just to tie in the sisterhood thing, wink! wink!
I remember seeing her sitting across the table at the third FRG meeting. She seemed a little nervous, bold, eager to absorb her surroundings, cheerful, confident, she had a contagious smile, and she was constantly talking about JESUS... WHAT? I could not believe what I was hearing! NOT ANOTHER ONE OF THOSE LADIES THAT LOVES GOD? Could it be true? I asked her for her contact info, I called her a week later, telling her; "I NEED to get out of my house, and away from my kids before I hurt someone". I'm sure her first thought was, "I need to clean my house", too bad, there I was... at her door. We did not waste anytime. Our conversation went straight to HEART issues, the best conversations in the world. I love relationships like this... nothing to hide, we bared our heart and souls from 6pm until 1am. It was a "sisterhood" connection right from the start. We have so many of the same interests, it is almost scary... besides Jesus, deployed husbands, children of the same age, and similar house decor... we LOVE Cherry Coke!
The guys however, had never met and they worked on opposites ends of the base. While Jay was home in July, we were on a walk through Le Center, She called me concerned about a few new changes she had noticed in her hubby. I asked if Perkins sounded OK? and at 10pm at night... off we went. The guys were finally able to meet.
Our meeting was just a few days after the 3 MP's were killed on base. The guys talked and talked and talked... My friend and I just looked at each other and realized... Our Army men need each other... not just OUR men, all of the Soldiers. We decided we needed to make every effort to get the "guys" together after deployment... so they can talk, and we can listen.
I Praise God for His faithfulness, and sending me my... "Dex"
Oh, I almost forgot we have gone JEAN shopping.... just to tie in the sisterhood thing, wink! wink!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Family..
I figured I have been putting plugs in for the Army Wives, Church Family, Homeschool Group.. and Rebecca, she is in her own category.. of (BEST FRIEND) I owe a THANK YOU to our family!
Since Jay's mom's passing... Jay's sister Joyce, has taken that role for Jay. Probably in more ways than she realizes. Traveling up north to see her during Jay's leave was healing and relaxing for him. He tells me every time she sends him a letter or care package in the mail... it truly is a blessing to have Joyce in Jay's life. The letters that he receives from Joyce, are like GOLD!
The two Julie's... Harmon and Strot were instrumental in me being able to attend Tyler's football games. Thank you for taking care of Reign when I needed it. I think she can finally discern which Julie is which. My sister for your shoulder... I absorb your wisdom and patience and a slap on the cheek every once in awhile.. as needed! :-) My sister in law for writing to Jay and keeping him up to date with your family. Jim, for updating Jay with e-mails... He tells me everytime he gets an email.. It means that much to him!
Christina, for listening and praying with me over skype... distance is not a factor!
Everyone has special gifts and abilities to contribute... I am amazed how He knits family and friends together for his Glory!
This deployment is not over when Jay gets home... we will be beginning a NEW SEASON of DEPLOYMENT. We covet your prayers and patience!
Blessings
Since Jay's mom's passing... Jay's sister Joyce, has taken that role for Jay. Probably in more ways than she realizes. Traveling up north to see her during Jay's leave was healing and relaxing for him. He tells me every time she sends him a letter or care package in the mail... it truly is a blessing to have Joyce in Jay's life. The letters that he receives from Joyce, are like GOLD!
The two Julie's... Harmon and Strot were instrumental in me being able to attend Tyler's football games. Thank you for taking care of Reign when I needed it. I think she can finally discern which Julie is which. My sister for your shoulder... I absorb your wisdom and patience and a slap on the cheek every once in awhile.. as needed! :-) My sister in law for writing to Jay and keeping him up to date with your family. Jim, for updating Jay with e-mails... He tells me everytime he gets an email.. It means that much to him!
Christina, for listening and praying with me over skype... distance is not a factor!
Everyone has special gifts and abilities to contribute... I am amazed how He knits family and friends together for his Glory!
This deployment is not over when Jay gets home... we will be beginning a NEW SEASON of DEPLOYMENT. We covet your prayers and patience!
Blessings
The Panel
When we were at the FRA this last weekend, there was a panel consisting of a deployed soldier, his wife and another female soldier. The male soldier and his wife shared how he has changed the most during this deployment.
Before deployment: He was very social and loved family gatherings. Since his return he is withdrawn from family functions. As he talked he shared how he would rather get together with soldiers from the unit that he was deployed with, than family or friends. As be continued, he shared about when they get together with family and friends at home; it is always a hundred and one questions. It is not just one question. It becomes several and then an entire story. He shared how it is exhausting to answer all these questions and he simply chooses not to enter into this situation. He feels most comfortable being with friends that share that commonality of being deployed. No questions asked, he can just BE…
I shared this with a friend of mine, for her it was no different when her child was going through chemo, one develops bonds and special relationships during that season.
Hmm… I’m not sure how Jay will or will not be when he returns, but I can identify with this soldier… It IS comforting to be around people that understand. I never thought this new Army life would open doors to so many new relationships.
Before deployment: He was very social and loved family gatherings. Since his return he is withdrawn from family functions. As he talked he shared how he would rather get together with soldiers from the unit that he was deployed with, than family or friends. As be continued, he shared about when they get together with family and friends at home; it is always a hundred and one questions. It is not just one question. It becomes several and then an entire story. He shared how it is exhausting to answer all these questions and he simply chooses not to enter into this situation. He feels most comfortable being with friends that share that commonality of being deployed. No questions asked, he can just BE…
I shared this with a friend of mine, for her it was no different when her child was going through chemo, one develops bonds and special relationships during that season.
Hmm… I’m not sure how Jay will or will not be when he returns, but I can identify with this soldier… It IS comforting to be around people that understand. I never thought this new Army life would open doors to so many new relationships.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
FRG FRA 0901 STP MN
Got to love those acronyms!
We spent last weekend with our ARMY FAMILY: The Johnsons, Nickelsons, Paulsons, Meiers, Carrons, Schmidts and the list goes on...
We are getting ready for REINTEGRATION
Friday afternoon started out with bowling with the Home school group in Shakapee, then we took Reign to my sisters house in Bloomington for the night, and off to St. Paul we went. We checked in to the Holiday Inn. Everyone brought something to share for a potluck and the kids went swimming while the wives visited!
Saturday was a busy day: Several organizations in St. Paul got together to prepare a meal for the Soldiers and their families (a steak dinner). It was all held via satellite from St. Paul to Iraq. We were able to see Jay and a few other friends as we shared a steak dinner. It was emotional to see Moms holding up their new born babies, so daddy could see them. We made it through singing Amazing Grace and listened to Miss Minnesota sing the National Anthem. whew! My sister brought Reign to to the River Center around 1pm. We skyped with Jay and then registered for Sunday's conference. We got our FREE tickets to the science museum and we were off and running again... It was neat to see the Titanic exhibit. Once we made it back to the hotel, the teens decided they were Hungary. CHINESE!! and off we went again. This time looking for Chinese. It was a lot of fun!
Sunday I checked Reign into the daycare area and began a long day of classes. I would have to say that I did not learn anything "new", however the classes confirmed what I already "knew" and that was a good thing. It was nice to bond with the Army wives. It was hard to leave... the weekend went way too fast.
We are gearing up for Jay's return home, I have so many mixed emotions. Another new season our family will be going through. We listened to a few soldiers and families share their experiences about "the homecoming" and I can relate with them, deep sigh...
Continuing to walk in His Grace...
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Christmas Cookies
Reign, helped me bake several sugar cookies. She enjoyed mixing the dough and rolling out the dough and eating the dough. She was so patient and followed her instructions very well. I had a moment with the Lord, while Reign had her little hands in the cookie dough... I just started to cry and Praise Him for this precious little gift. A gift that I waited 17 years for. God is faithful and he does give HIS CHILDREN the desires of their hearts. (writing this in tears this morning) deep sigh... The Lord is so very very good!
Asthma
ER, nebulizer, albutrol, prednisone, z-pack…I feel like a JITTER bug. Except, now I CAN BREATHE PTL!
Now off to the pharmacy for meds and prayer.. Not too many people can say that their pharmacist prays with them.. Gotta LOVE that girl, best friend in the world!
I have been sick off and on with this stupid asthma thing for the last month and a half. It seemed to begin after I started working out. :-( Perhaps exercise induced, not sure. cold weather induced.. I have been using an inhaler each day up until last night, the inhaler wasn't cutting it. Andrew took me to the ER and the rest is history.
I read once that asthma may have a spiritual root with a fear of relationships. You may agree or disagree. However I DO NOT typically have ASTHMA. I do get congested when I am around cats. The only other time this has happened was last year, when Jay was getting ready to deploy. Perhaps FEAR of our relationship, him leaving.. now he is coming home.. perhaps some fear of our relationship... They say the the end of a deployment is the hardest.. I guess we will soon find out.
I ask that you pray for my health and the transition of Jay coming home. NO FEAR, and continuing to trust and rest in Him!
My God Reigns!
Now off to the pharmacy for meds and prayer.. Not too many people can say that their pharmacist prays with them.. Gotta LOVE that girl, best friend in the world!
I have been sick off and on with this stupid asthma thing for the last month and a half. It seemed to begin after I started working out. :-( Perhaps exercise induced, not sure. cold weather induced.. I have been using an inhaler each day up until last night, the inhaler wasn't cutting it. Andrew took me to the ER and the rest is history.
I read once that asthma may have a spiritual root with a fear of relationships. You may agree or disagree. However I DO NOT typically have ASTHMA. I do get congested when I am around cats. The only other time this has happened was last year, when Jay was getting ready to deploy. Perhaps FEAR of our relationship, him leaving.. now he is coming home.. perhaps some fear of our relationship... They say the the end of a deployment is the hardest.. I guess we will soon find out.
I ask that you pray for my health and the transition of Jay coming home. NO FEAR, and continuing to trust and rest in Him!
My God Reigns!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Black Friday ~
Caleb, and I did venture out to do some shopping. We didn't get too crazy though. The Christmas tree is up and all of the presents are wrapped. We went down town Le Center to see the big hollydaze parade and check out all the Christmas lights in the Courthouse park.
I am trying to teach Reign that we are getting ready for Jesus' Birthday party. I think she can understand it as much as a 2 year old can. She loves to read her Christmas books about baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph.. Oh, and we cannot forget about the donkey! The push button animals and snowmen are also a hit again this year.
Maybe I am getting used to Jay being away, or maybe... simply learning to walk in God's GRACE. Thanksgiving and Christmas do not seem to be as hard to get through as other holidays. We were going to wait; to celebrate Christmas, until Jay came home but he told us NOT to wait.
I think it will be a great day to celebrate the birth of our Savior.
Packing for ~ HOME ~
Jay and several other soldiers in the S-4 section [picture is above] are kicking it into HIGH GEAR. They have 1200 soldiers to get moved out of Iraq in the next 8 weeks or so. He sounds so good when I talk to him on the phone. He seems so close , yet so far away!
Once again he is working 12-14 hours a day! Pray for his strength, energy and rest. I believe The Lord, will supernaturally multiply his hours of sleep in JESUS NAME!
He is receiving Christmas gifts... THANK YOU to all that have sent him stuff in a timely manner! I also sent him his box of letters to open the month of January. He said he will try not to open them until then.
The Le Center Public School has also sent Christmas boxes to the Soldiers in Jay's section. What a blessing the Elementary students have been.
Reign keeps saying, "My daddy come home soon". She then says, "I'm gonna say 'BOO' when daddy comes in the door and daddy will jump and I'm gonna hug him"!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanksgiving 2009
Jay took his PT test on Thanksgiving. He did the entire thing in 15:15... WOW not to bad for an ol' man of 47! I could tell on the phone that Jay was missing Thanksgiving at home.. I told him the turkey would probably be dry anyway. ;-)
We were invited to several places for dinner on Thanksgiving. So many choice, it was hard to choose from.
We met a new family at the Prior Lake Home School Group, The Trebolds. They go to a similar church as we do and are "youth sponsors". Scott, Amy, Jessica, Johnny and Daniel. Are all close to our boys in age. They had invited around 28 people to their house that did not have family close by. The boys hung out with their boys and Jessica age 16 was terrific with Reign, playing dolly's and so much more. Andrew took a 3 hour nap on the recliner. I laugh because he was nervous about going to someones house that he did not know.. He obviously felt comfortable, enough so to take a nap! :-)
It really was amazing to see the Trebolds at work in ministry. It was refreshing to see this family love and show Christ's love to co-workers and others. Next year...our house! :-)
THANK YOU Scott and Amy!
We were invited to several places for dinner on Thanksgiving. So many choice, it was hard to choose from.
We met a new family at the Prior Lake Home School Group, The Trebolds. They go to a similar church as we do and are "youth sponsors". Scott, Amy, Jessica, Johnny and Daniel. Are all close to our boys in age. They had invited around 28 people to their house that did not have family close by. The boys hung out with their boys and Jessica age 16 was terrific with Reign, playing dolly's and so much more. Andrew took a 3 hour nap on the recliner. I laugh because he was nervous about going to someones house that he did not know.. He obviously felt comfortable, enough so to take a nap! :-)
It really was amazing to see the Trebolds at work in ministry. It was refreshing to see this family love and show Christ's love to co-workers and others. Next year...our house! :-)
THANK YOU Scott and Amy!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Fever...
The last few days I have not felt very good, yesterday I had a fever. I could not get off the couch. It really stinks to not be able to move and allow the house to fall apart beore my eyes. Reign came up to me last night and told me Jesus will make me better. She took my hands and felt my cheeks and told me I was hot fever and said, "thank you Jesus mommy better" then she looked at me in the eyes and says, "mommy your better now, get up!" faith like a child!
Jay's e-mail:
Hi Honey,
I hope you are feeling better today in Jesus Name! I have had a busy day doing all sorts of odd things. It has been raining off and on all day , sure makes everything real muddy and sticky.I am doing a PT tomorrow morning, my Thanksgiving day fun and then back to work. I guess I will have to wait until next year to have a real Turkey day and of course all the other Holiday's that we get. It will sure be nice to just be able to have Saturday and Sunday off! I wish we could go pick up some movies and make some popcorn and just hang out! LOVE YOU!XXOXOXO!
SSG Jay Harmon
Jay's e-mail:
Hi Honey,
I hope you are feeling better today in Jesus Name! I have had a busy day doing all sorts of odd things. It has been raining off and on all day , sure makes everything real muddy and sticky.I am doing a PT tomorrow morning, my Thanksgiving day fun and then back to work. I guess I will have to wait until next year to have a real Turkey day and of course all the other Holiday's that we get. It will sure be nice to just be able to have Saturday and Sunday off! I wish we could go pick up some movies and make some popcorn and just hang out! LOVE YOU!XXOXOXO!
SSG Jay Harmon
Monday, November 23, 2009
Misc..
Jay and I have not been able to communicate very much the last 2 weeks. He is either busy or I am busy. We seem to keep missing each other. I really miss the hour conversations. Tonight we talked for 7 minutes and he had to get back to work.
7 minutes of communication for one week... Ugh!
Basketball season has started for Caleb, Tyler is busy working, Andrew is trying to pass his first PT test. Reign is well... growing up before my eyes. She can sort laundry now. She loves to help around the house.
Jay is so excited about coming home, February cannot come soon enough!
I am exhausted... Good night everyone and God Bless!
7 minutes of communication for one week... Ugh!
Basketball season has started for Caleb, Tyler is busy working, Andrew is trying to pass his first PT test. Reign is well... growing up before my eyes. She can sort laundry now. She loves to help around the house.
Jay is so excited about coming home, February cannot come soon enough!
I am exhausted... Good night everyone and God Bless!
November... where did it go?
- Deer Hunting ~ no deer, everyone was safe.
- Lunch with Jodi ~ army wife.
- Archery, soccer, and rollerskating with the home school group.
- Veterans Day ~ Jay says thank you for all the cards and well wishes.
- Cecil Paxton Ministries ~ learning how to receive God's promises.
- Holiday baking ~ Army wives
- Movie ~ Blindside... A MUST SEE
- I Joined a Fitness Center ~ somewhat hopeful :-)
- Jay is packing up stuff to be shipped home.
- Reintegration training.
- Basketball practice.
- Thanksgiving.
- Black Friday
- Christmas decorating
- Lunch with Jodi ~ army wife.
- Archery, soccer, and rollerskating with the home school group.
- Veterans Day ~ Jay says thank you for all the cards and well wishes.
- Cecil Paxton Ministries ~ learning how to receive God's promises.
- Holiday baking ~ Army wives
- Movie ~ Blindside... A MUST SEE
- I Joined a Fitness Center ~ somewhat hopeful :-)
- Jay is packing up stuff to be shipped home.
- Reintegration training.
- Basketball practice.
- Thanksgiving.
- Black Friday
- Christmas decorating
Monday, November 9, 2009
The BEST way to go on a convoy...
Jay getting ready
Sleeping? hmm he must have some PEACE... Amen!
Jay just waking up...
The convoy Jay slept through! :-)
Sleeping? hmm he must have some PEACE... Amen!
Jay just waking up...
The convoy Jay slept through! :-)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Jay is sporting a new look...
Here is a photo of Jay.. with his new SHOES! Several people gave him a tough time about wearing them. He said it is too hot to wear anything else. Normal tennis shoes won't dry (from the sweat) over night.
Jay can only wear these shoes when he has his PT uniform on...
Jay can only wear these shoes when he has his PT uniform on...
Ft. Benning Georgia
Andrew leaves around January 20th of 2010. For Basic Training. I guess this Blog will be on going... The unit that Andrew is joining will be going to Afganistan in 2011. I am praying that Andrew, will be able to transfer units once he returns from Basic and AIT. This will give him more time to decide what he actually wants to do with his life, and give mom a break!
deep sigh
deep sigh
Deer Hunting
Here is one of my latest e-mails to Jay, I really wish he were home for this kind of stuff. I only share this to vent and to share my frustration about him being deployed. He is missing all the holidays, birthdays, sporting events, Reign and the boys growing up. I cannot wait for him to come home!
e-mail:
Tyler just came home from class and realized that it was deer hunting weekend. He is all freaking out about getting his license and going hunting. HE JUST REALIZED IT... One would think that if you are going to go hunting you would plan a little bit for the weekend!!!! Grrrrr
I am a planner and I did not think that they were going ...
ONE, nobody discussed it in this house!
TWO, they are NOT ready.
THREE, do any of them have a clue about getting things ready, or putting anything away when they are DONE; probably NOT!!!!! Grrrr
Simply because you (their dad) do everything for them... so be prepared either ... I am gonna get very upset if I have to clean everything and put stuff back.... or your garage will be full of crap for you to put away; in February!
I am irritated right now because they are not organized or READY, nor do I feel like helping them in anyway!
This is not my forte!
Do I trust the fact that they do not have much experience with shooting a gun or hunting?
Do I want Caleb to go with them? without YOU being there!?
Are they responsible enough?
Does this suck? pretty much!
Do I feel better now that I vented?... not yet!
Have a Fantastic Day!
I'm going to go watch Bambi with Reign :-)
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Halloween
My spirit is always so grieved on this day.
Each year we attend a carnival at church. I really hate it... not the church, just the celebrating. I have always wanted to have a night of worship and prayer on October 31st. I just have not felt lead to organize it. I am elated that Dave and Tina are having such a night tonight! I cannot wait to see how God is going to move.
October typically has the highest abductions out of any month of the year. The statistics could have changed since I last read them. However most animal shelters and stores will not sell animals this week do to the sacrifices that take place tonight. Many babies and children also fit that category. how awful... I could NOT imagine having a child abducted and then find out that they were sacrificed during a satanic worship service. I know this is a horrable thing to think about.. however this is a FACT. One of the many reasons I have chosen not to celebrate.
God have MERCY!
Each year we attend a carnival at church. I really hate it... not the church, just the celebrating. I have always wanted to have a night of worship and prayer on October 31st. I just have not felt lead to organize it. I am elated that Dave and Tina are having such a night tonight! I cannot wait to see how God is going to move.
October typically has the highest abductions out of any month of the year. The statistics could have changed since I last read them. However most animal shelters and stores will not sell animals this week do to the sacrifices that take place tonight. Many babies and children also fit that category. how awful... I could NOT imagine having a child abducted and then find out that they were sacrificed during a satanic worship service. I know this is a horrable thing to think about.. however this is a FACT. One of the many reasons I have chosen not to celebrate.
God have MERCY!
Reign is Potty trained!
Reign saying bye bye poopy.. as she watches it go down the toilet!
October 18th 2009 was Reign's big day! She went from wearing diapers to wearing panties. WOO HOO! Reign is only 25 months old.. for me this is a miracle. The boys were all 3 years old before they were completely potty trained.
Monday, October 26, 2009
My day...
Well today started off kinda slow. Reign was exhausted from being at the youth Pastor's house late last night. She was so crabby this morning. I remember why we stopped going to Pastor Tiffs on Sunday nights... I pay for it the next day.
Around 11 a.m. I got a message from an Army Wife; telling me that she was talking to her hubby and he "had to GO" the base was being mortared. I texted the prayer warriors, and sat and prayed~cried casting down those imaginations in my mind, for about an hour. My friend called later to tell me that they were in an all clear and no one was injured. PRAISE GOD.
There hasn't been any excitement on the base for awhile now. The last two weeks I have been doing really well, considering the doctor told me I was real close to nervous breakdown stage. Today I felt like I was jerked back into reality. I hate when this happens. It is amazing how fast your life/future flashes before your eyes. I felt that same gut wrenching ache and weak knees. It is so hard to focus after something like this.
The church dropped off a few meals this afternoon. It was nice not to have to make supper tonight... It would have been a pb and j night.
Andrew came home and announced that the recruiter called him today and tomorrow they will head out to South Dakota so he can be sworn in with the MN Army National Guard as a MP. I really had to hold back the tears. I told him if he hugged me any longer I would totally fall apart emotionally.... some days are way worse then others and today was one of those days.
I decided to pack up the kids and go to Wal-mart. Jay had requested a few items so we picked some stuff up for him. nothing like shop therapy... right? :-) I packed up about 10 fall treat bags and signed 10 Veterans Day cards for Jay's co-workers. We dropped off 12 boxes at the school so they can send gift packages to the soldiers they adopted.
I typed up the Christmas letter that will be sent to the soldiers of HSC, for Christmas. The commander looked it over to make sure it was politically correct, and after a few additions; it was approved... (politically correct) Hmm that just makes me want to vomit. No worries though... I will comply! :-)
Caleb tucked Reign into bed for me and fell asleep in my bed... while I corrected spelling, math, social studies and health tests. I cleaned the kitchen, vacuumed the hard wood, and picked up the house. Here I sit at the computer 12:30 a.m.
I need to go to bed!
Psalm 119:28
My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.
Psalm 105:4
Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.
Good night and God Bless!
Nancy
Spa night!
The photo above is after a strawberriw scrub and a chocolate mask... all natural by the way! :-)
Last week was a real busy week for me... however it ended with some fun with the Army Wives. A massage therapist from Le Center does in home spa parties. She pampered us ladies with an evening of foot, hand, back, and face massages.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Reign's ears are pierced!
Reign was such a trooper getting her ears pierced today. She thinks her ears are very pretty!
Saturday, October 17, 2009
A few months before deployment
A few months before deployment my thought process was…
I’m going pull away from Jay emotionally to protect myself from the pain. I did try to pull away and disconnect. I was on my way to numbing myself when God intervened and saved me from that destruction.
A few months before Jay, deployed I had another “middle of the night encounter”. This time it was not Jesus. I was sleeping in bed and awoke to someone’s right knee on my chest, holding me down. I could feel his left arm next to my head. He then took his right hand and began trying to stick his fingers in my mouth. I started to pierce my lips and force mouth shut, as I flailed my head back and forth. My first though was that Jay was doing this to me and I could not figure out what was going on. After all I had just woken up from a deep sleep. I opened one eye to see a dark green, very muscular figure standing over me. It had two bumps on its forehead and its hands were webbed with little ball type finger tips. Obviously it was NOT Jay. I slowly opened my mouth to allow his finger tips into my mouth and as he did. I bit down with my teeth as hard as I could. I wasn’t scared; I was annoyed and extremely irritated with this thing. It pulled its hand away and swore at me saying “what the f*** did you do that for?” I said back to him; “well get your damn fingers out of my mouth”. We glared at each other for a second and I simply said JESUS, and it was gone.
I know that God was allowing me to experience this for a reason. A few weeks later Jay and I visited a church that a good friend of mine attends. As I shared my experience with her she quickly introduced us to a friend of hers. As we prayed the Lord, revealed the following:
When something is in your bed it usually has to do with intimacy or something with your spouse. This demon was trying to put its fingers in my mouth as if to choke me, stop me from talking and to cut off my communication. My friend felt as though we were dealing with the leviathan demon. I instantly told myself … Really? NO WAY… However I stayed open to whatever God was trying to reveal to me. A few weeks later I had a dream that confirmed this in fact was the demon trying to cause miscommunication between Jay and me. I started to study a little more about this demon and Jay and I had a battle plan. Our friends eagerly prayed for us and since then Jay, and I have drawn closer together. We now make ourselves communicate as often as possible.
We were about to enter a war zone… physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually!
God had given us the plans of the enemy He is defeated and we are victorious in Christ!
I can honestly say I have never felt such pain as I do during this deployment. I never knew that loving someone could hurt so bad and feel so good all at the same time. I Praise God for allowing me to FEEL and I EMBRACE these emotions. I eagerly await our transformation. We both know that we will not be the same after this deployment. Who we are… our family, our marriage will be BETTER and STRONGER because of it.
Jay and I have talked about how we long to be reunited. We cannot help but be reminded that Jesus LONGS to be united with us… His heart aches to have a relationship with us, to communicate and spend time with us. His love for us is so much deeper than a husband and wife share, so much more than we can ever imagine. I beg you, to allow HIS LOVE to TRANSFORM you!
I’m going pull away from Jay emotionally to protect myself from the pain. I did try to pull away and disconnect. I was on my way to numbing myself when God intervened and saved me from that destruction.
A few months before Jay, deployed I had another “middle of the night encounter”. This time it was not Jesus. I was sleeping in bed and awoke to someone’s right knee on my chest, holding me down. I could feel his left arm next to my head. He then took his right hand and began trying to stick his fingers in my mouth. I started to pierce my lips and force mouth shut, as I flailed my head back and forth. My first though was that Jay was doing this to me and I could not figure out what was going on. After all I had just woken up from a deep sleep. I opened one eye to see a dark green, very muscular figure standing over me. It had two bumps on its forehead and its hands were webbed with little ball type finger tips. Obviously it was NOT Jay. I slowly opened my mouth to allow his finger tips into my mouth and as he did. I bit down with my teeth as hard as I could. I wasn’t scared; I was annoyed and extremely irritated with this thing. It pulled its hand away and swore at me saying “what the f*** did you do that for?” I said back to him; “well get your damn fingers out of my mouth”. We glared at each other for a second and I simply said JESUS, and it was gone.
I know that God was allowing me to experience this for a reason. A few weeks later Jay and I visited a church that a good friend of mine attends. As I shared my experience with her she quickly introduced us to a friend of hers. As we prayed the Lord, revealed the following:
When something is in your bed it usually has to do with intimacy or something with your spouse. This demon was trying to put its fingers in my mouth as if to choke me, stop me from talking and to cut off my communication. My friend felt as though we were dealing with the leviathan demon. I instantly told myself … Really? NO WAY… However I stayed open to whatever God was trying to reveal to me. A few weeks later I had a dream that confirmed this in fact was the demon trying to cause miscommunication between Jay and me. I started to study a little more about this demon and Jay and I had a battle plan. Our friends eagerly prayed for us and since then Jay, and I have drawn closer together. We now make ourselves communicate as often as possible.
We were about to enter a war zone… physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually!
God had given us the plans of the enemy He is defeated and we are victorious in Christ!
I can honestly say I have never felt such pain as I do during this deployment. I never knew that loving someone could hurt so bad and feel so good all at the same time. I Praise God for allowing me to FEEL and I EMBRACE these emotions. I eagerly await our transformation. We both know that we will not be the same after this deployment. Who we are… our family, our marriage will be BETTER and STRONGER because of it.
Jay and I have talked about how we long to be reunited. We cannot help but be reminded that Jesus LONGS to be united with us… His heart aches to have a relationship with us, to communicate and spend time with us. His love for us is so much deeper than a husband and wife share, so much more than we can ever imagine. I beg you, to allow HIS LOVE to TRANSFORM you!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Parents Night
UGH! what a busy day...
I took all three girls to Henderson to stay with Kris, so I could help prepare the big football dinner. For those of you that know me; know that I HATE COOKING! hospitality and service are NOT my gifts! So yesterday was a stretch. I NEEDED Jay home to fill those shoes. It was difficult to walk out on to the field without Jay with us. Tina Wagner, brought the girls home from church until I could get back from the game and meal. We ended up chatting until wee hours of the morning and she decided to spend the night. Adult conversation is always so refreshing!
This morning Tina, once again took all three girls with her so I can do nothing for a few hours. THANK YOU!
.
I took all three girls to Henderson to stay with Kris, so I could help prepare the big football dinner. For those of you that know me; know that I HATE COOKING! hospitality and service are NOT my gifts! So yesterday was a stretch. I NEEDED Jay home to fill those shoes. It was difficult to walk out on to the field without Jay with us. Tina Wagner, brought the girls home from church until I could get back from the game and meal. We ended up chatting until wee hours of the morning and she decided to spend the night. Adult conversation is always so refreshing!
This morning Tina, once again took all three girls with her so I can do nothing for a few hours. THANK YOU!
.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Friday...
Thanks, Julie (Harmon) for taking Reign yesterday. I took the kids to the homeschool group without having to chase a toddler. It was nice to be able to visit with the other moms for a change. THANK YOU SO MUCH! :-)
I still have the 2 little girls at my house. Keep praying for their dad, perfect health in Jesus name!
I made it back from Prior Lake (homeschool group) yesterday afternoon just in time to drive to Randolph, MN. For Tyler's varsity game. The girls went with a friend, Reign was with Julie, and the Schloessers picked Caleb and I up to go to the game. Last year when Tyler played against Randolph, Jay got kicked out of the game! I'm very sure he would have been kicked out this year too... I laugh because everyone that knows Jay, knows he is a pretty laid back kinda guy, EXCEPT when he watches sports! then it all CHANGES. LeCenter was down 27-0 in the first half, and then they ended up winning the game, 28-27! it was an intense second half that is for sure!
We woke up to a dusting of SNOW on the ground! very pretty, but WAY TO EARLY!
Caleb's football!
Caleb played against St. Clair this week. I was there to take a few snap shots and then we headed for the van to try and watch the game. It was way too cold to sit outside. They went into over time and the score was 12-6 Le Center!
Chocolate Paint?
Reign had a blast finger painting with Chocolate pudding, I just thought I would share the pictures.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
A sad day...
Jay:
Hi Honey,
Sorry I did not get in early enough to give you a call this am your pm. I was up late last night with a situation that was going on over here. I will tell you later and no we were not attacked. I love you very much and will talk to you later!
Nancy:
I've heard... call me if you can, otherwise an email is fine.... I am praying for the troops, morale must not be to good right now. I wish I could hug you!
Jay:
Yes I could hug you and hold you for a long time! I am fine! The rumor mill is going crazy on all the what ifs! I love you and have been praying in the spirit all day yesterday and all day today! The Blood of Jesus over everyone involved in all this!
The Military:
Our statement is as follows:
Statement attributable to CPT Paul Rickert, Rear Detachment Public Affairs Officer, 34th Infantry Division:
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Minnesota National Guard Soldier supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Maj. Tad T. Hervas, 48, of Coon Rapids, Minn., died Oct. 6 at Contingency Operating Base Basra, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. Hervas was assigned to the 34th Infantry Division, Rosemount, Minn.
We are relying exclusively on official military reports and the details are still under investigation by U.S. Military authorities in Iraq. We cannot and will not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the death of Maj. Tad T. Hervas.
Hi Honey,
Sorry I did not get in early enough to give you a call this am your pm. I was up late last night with a situation that was going on over here. I will tell you later and no we were not attacked. I love you very much and will talk to you later!
Nancy:
I've heard... call me if you can, otherwise an email is fine.... I am praying for the troops, morale must not be to good right now. I wish I could hug you!
Jay:
Yes I could hug you and hold you for a long time! I am fine! The rumor mill is going crazy on all the what ifs! I love you and have been praying in the spirit all day yesterday and all day today! The Blood of Jesus over everyone involved in all this!
The Military:
Our statement is as follows:
Statement attributable to CPT Paul Rickert, Rear Detachment Public Affairs Officer, 34th Infantry Division:
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Minnesota National Guard Soldier supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Maj. Tad T. Hervas, 48, of Coon Rapids, Minn., died Oct. 6 at Contingency Operating Base Basra, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. Hervas was assigned to the 34th Infantry Division, Rosemount, Minn.
We are relying exclusively on official military reports and the details are still under investigation by U.S. Military authorities in Iraq. We cannot and will not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the death of Maj. Tad T. Hervas.
Monday, October 5, 2009
The Gate
The past few days Jay, has been doing something work related at the gate of the base. He said, "they had a little excitement". An Iraqi was approaching the gate on a motorcycle at an excessive speed. The soldiers were told to get ready... except in "army words". Jay had a pistol!?! and thought it would be better to hang tight with the guy packing a gun with the M-4 attached. Once again... (DO NOT QUOTE ME ON THE PROPER NAMES OF THESE GUNS) I am horrible at this. Anyway, this gun is bigger than a pistol! The guy on the motorcycle did stop, just before getting shot! whew... I could not imagine! everything was fine.
For the most part Jay, says "the nationals (Iraqis) are friendly". He said, "you can tell who the ones are that want you dead, by the way they look at you. The evil is in their eyes". About 500 or so come on base each day to work. It is quite the process for them to get on and off base, if you thought airport security was bad?! They even get their eyeballs scanned. I Praise God for the extra measures, and for keeping them all so safe!
I got a phone call from another army wife early yesterday morning she is worried about her husband and combat stress. He is making comments about buying a gun and having it at home, just encase someone comes after them. She told me they live in a neighborhood where they never have to lock the doors.
We are all getting ready for reintegration training and what to expect. I pray patience upon the spouses of the soldiers. Most people think that the tour is over once the soldier gets home... not the case, for some it takes months to get back to normal. Well, I guess a "new normal" I don't think after a year at war things can go back to the way they once were, maybe close but not the same!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
SkYpE
2 hours and 51 minutes and 4 seconds... that was my amazing skype date with my hubby tonight. It only felt like 5 minutes... blah! is all I can say. Another night without him next to me, yet another day closer to him coming home!
deep sigh.....
The house is full of kids tonight, we still have the 2 extra girls here, along with a foster care placement for the weekend. Another 12 year old little girl. She is just a peach and I have fallen in love with her. What a sad life .... the stories of these foster kids break my heart. If I could, I would adopt ALL OF THEM!
GOD, SEND ME A BIGGER HOUSE... IN JESUS NAME!
blessings to you all... good night!
deep sigh.....
The house is full of kids tonight, we still have the 2 extra girls here, along with a foster care placement for the weekend. Another 12 year old little girl. She is just a peach and I have fallen in love with her. What a sad life .... the stories of these foster kids break my heart. If I could, I would adopt ALL OF THEM!
GOD, SEND ME A BIGGER HOUSE... IN JESUS NAME!
blessings to you all... good night!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
MAIL... the most requested item!
Jay, is ready to come home; just as all the soldiers are. The second half of a deployment is always the hardest. Once again he is requesting mail.
Most of the soldiers DO NOT HAVE INTERNET in their living quarters. So when they go back to their rooms they like to read mail. THEY NEED TO BE ENCOURAGED! lately I have been passing out self addressed stamped envelopes to people we know; so they will send something to Jay. I honestly think that is kind of sad... but I will do what I have to for him... SNAIL MAIL IS JAY'S ONLY REQUEST! So if I get crabby you know why, it is something so simple yet people cannot seem to do it!
Adopt a soldier: About 17 families from our home school group has adopted a soldier. Each family is going to write one letter a week to a soldier and encourage them with a scripture. PRAISE GOD!
A Smile form a Child: I contacted the Le Center public school, and 6 classrooms are going to start writing to soldiers. If you are interested in helping pay for postage e-mail me at (harm3jn@frontiernet.net) I am looking for donations.
Did you know? .... ONE LETTER may give ONE SOLDIER enough HOPE for that day to NOT commit suicide!
Most of the soldiers DO NOT HAVE INTERNET in their living quarters. So when they go back to their rooms they like to read mail. THEY NEED TO BE ENCOURAGED! lately I have been passing out self addressed stamped envelopes to people we know; so they will send something to Jay. I honestly think that is kind of sad... but I will do what I have to for him... SNAIL MAIL IS JAY'S ONLY REQUEST! So if I get crabby you know why, it is something so simple yet people cannot seem to do it!
Adopt a soldier: About 17 families from our home school group has adopted a soldier. Each family is going to write one letter a week to a soldier and encourage them with a scripture. PRAISE GOD!
A Smile form a Child: I contacted the Le Center public school, and 6 classrooms are going to start writing to soldiers. If you are interested in helping pay for postage e-mail me at (harm3jn@frontiernet.net) I am looking for donations.
Did you know? .... ONE LETTER may give ONE SOLDIER enough HOPE for that day to NOT commit suicide!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Rejoicing! GOD IS SO GOOD!
Psalm 5:11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
We woke up to a very chilly house this morning, I think that some chocolate chip banana bread and oatmeal raisin cookies shall warm things up! :-)
I went to the chiropractor yesterday and I am feeling a little better. I know I carry most of my stress in my back. I need to go in for one of those deep muscle massages very soon I think!
It has been just over a week and I still have the 2 extra little girls, staying with us. Pray for their dad, he needs a supernatural healing, I know we serve a BIG GOD and HE can do more than we could EVER IMAGINE!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Be Still
Psalm 46:10
Be still, and know that I am God. (My conviction this morning)
This week has been busy. I good friend of mine (her husband) is in the hospital. I have been taking care of her two girls since Tuesday. They are also home schooled so it works out great to have them here. They are amazing with Reign, and give her plenty to do.
Yesterday during our home school group: Reign, interrupted a few ladies having a meeting. She went up to one of the moms and says, "I want to sit down" the mom says "oh, do you want to sit on my lap?" Reign, says... "Move, I sit down, my chair". Praise God, for Toddlers... it is all about them! WHEW! (this too shall pass!) that was almost as embarrassing as when a friend from church said, quietly that she had to go to the bathroom and Reign announces that my friend "had to go poop" to the entire church! what is that verse.. out of the mouths of babes?!
Le Center's Home coming was last night. Le Center won 38-8! Tyler did a great job blocking! way to go #52! Thanks Aunt Julie (my sister) for coming down to watch Reign so we could enjoy the game!
We are so blessed by all of your love and suport!
Be still, and know that I am God. (My conviction this morning)
This week has been busy. I good friend of mine (her husband) is in the hospital. I have been taking care of her two girls since Tuesday. They are also home schooled so it works out great to have them here. They are amazing with Reign, and give her plenty to do.
Yesterday during our home school group: Reign, interrupted a few ladies having a meeting. She went up to one of the moms and says, "I want to sit down" the mom says "oh, do you want to sit on my lap?" Reign, says... "Move, I sit down, my chair". Praise God, for Toddlers... it is all about them! WHEW! (this too shall pass!) that was almost as embarrassing as when a friend from church said, quietly that she had to go to the bathroom and Reign announces that my friend "had to go poop" to the entire church! what is that verse.. out of the mouths of babes?!
Le Center's Home coming was last night. Le Center won 38-8! Tyler did a great job blocking! way to go #52! Thanks Aunt Julie (my sister) for coming down to watch Reign so we could enjoy the game!
We are so blessed by all of your love and suport!
Friday, September 25, 2009
convoy "covered in prayer"
Psalm 73:24,26,28
Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.
Jay is going on a convoy this week. Please be believing for his and the other soldiers safety. Every time Jay has left the base; the base has been mortared or missile attacked. Yes, God is watching over him. We do not want ANYONE injured or killed. I believe that NO MISSILE OR MORTAR will come near any of the soldiers on or off base in Jesus' MIGHTY name!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
touch
Touch ~ to come in contact with so as to feel.
I miss his touch, this morning. Even though I want curl up into a ball and cry all day. I have to suck it up. Feeling sorry for myself just does not happen when you have a family to take care of. Suppressed emotions, probably not the most healthy way to deal with this. I can hardly wait for when they all get released... LOOK OUT!
It has been 7 months!
The first half of this deployment; Jay and I got to see each other (in Seattle) after 2-1/2 months of being apart. Then another 2-1/2 months of being apart he was able to come home on leave. Well... we are now almost to the 2-1/2 mark for a third time and there is no seeing each other. This last half of the deployment seems to be going very slow.
Last night I talked to Jay, for about 10 minutes to give him a quick update and then the office was filling up with people. He feels limited as to what he can say, the conversation is over. It is nice to talk on the phone and to skype, but there is no privacy. There is always people around Jay and he feels like he cannot talk. As a woman you would think that a one sided conversation would be great.. and to add to this I KNOW HE IS LISTENING and not reading the news paper! however this is not the case. E-mail is the only way we can really share our thoughts/feelings, and then one wonders who's reading that? everything goes through a filter... understandably so; they are at war.
Psalm 30:5
Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.
After I wrote this entry, I checked my e-mail and this is what I got from Jay...
Hi Honey,
How is your day going? I am closing my eyes and imagining I am smothering you with kisses XXXXXOXOXOXOOX! I sure miss just holding and cuddling with you! I am just about done for the day. I am praying for perfect health for you and the kids! That is to funny I am just sending you an e-mail and one comes in from you! Love YOU BABE!!!XXXOO~~XXOO!
SSG Jay Harmon
I miss his touch, this morning. Even though I want curl up into a ball and cry all day. I have to suck it up. Feeling sorry for myself just does not happen when you have a family to take care of. Suppressed emotions, probably not the most healthy way to deal with this. I can hardly wait for when they all get released... LOOK OUT!
It has been 7 months!
The first half of this deployment; Jay and I got to see each other (in Seattle) after 2-1/2 months of being apart. Then another 2-1/2 months of being apart he was able to come home on leave. Well... we are now almost to the 2-1/2 mark for a third time and there is no seeing each other. This last half of the deployment seems to be going very slow.
Last night I talked to Jay, for about 10 minutes to give him a quick update and then the office was filling up with people. He feels limited as to what he can say, the conversation is over. It is nice to talk on the phone and to skype, but there is no privacy. There is always people around Jay and he feels like he cannot talk. As a woman you would think that a one sided conversation would be great.. and to add to this I KNOW HE IS LISTENING and not reading the news paper! however this is not the case. E-mail is the only way we can really share our thoughts/feelings, and then one wonders who's reading that? everything goes through a filter... understandably so; they are at war.
Psalm 30:5
Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.
After I wrote this entry, I checked my e-mail and this is what I got from Jay...
Hi Honey,
How is your day going? I am closing my eyes and imagining I am smothering you with kisses XXXXXOXOXOXOOX! I sure miss just holding and cuddling with you! I am just about done for the day. I am praying for perfect health for you and the kids! That is to funny I am just sending you an e-mail and one comes in from you! Love YOU BABE!!!XXXOO~~XXOO!
SSG Jay Harmon
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
My Outing
Ahhh! today was the first day in "TWO MONTHS" that I had a FULL AFTERNOON without any CHILDREN! can anyone say AMEN! I got my hair cut, and my nails done. The best part was saving over 70% at Kohls.. whoop! whoop!
Christina, I bought my first pair of red "burgundy shoes" Rebecca, I got purple nail tips, just for homecoming. I was thinking about you girls while shopping! wish'n you were with me. I Love you two!
For my sanity... I am in need of someone to take my daughter once a week. The person that volunteered 4 months ago his not able to watch Reign like before. It has been 2 months. I am not sure why I waited so long to ask!? I NEED YOUR HELP!
Once again, my heart goes out to the single moms out there... It is a very difficult job!
Christina, I bought my first pair of red "burgundy shoes" Rebecca, I got purple nail tips, just for homecoming. I was thinking about you girls while shopping! wish'n you were with me. I Love you two!
For my sanity... I am in need of someone to take my daughter once a week. The person that volunteered 4 months ago his not able to watch Reign like before. It has been 2 months. I am not sure why I waited so long to ask!? I NEED YOUR HELP!
Once again, my heart goes out to the single moms out there... It is a very difficult job!
Prayer...
I'm first going to start out with... I have not received an email or phone call from Jay in the last 48 hours... I am fighting off all those vain imaginations.... GOD HELP ME! cuz I really hate this! It is the worst feeling, and so hard to pray through. This is where I NEED YOU PRAYER WARRIORS to kick it into high gear!
My word for the day...
Psalm 59:16
But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.
My word for the day...
Psalm 59:16
But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
sand storm = bad communication
Today, we were able to skype. It was frustrating because there was a sand storm and Jay's audio was zero and the video kept freezing up. He could hear and see us just fine. (however very frustrating!) it is the weirdest feeling trying to communicate with someone when you cannot hear them, yet you can see them. It makes my ears hurt just thinking about it. As Jay was trying to figure out the audio, he unplugged the head set and everyone in the computer lab could hear Reign Scream... MY DADDY! oops. Well, at least Jay got a chuckle! :-)
A new saying everyday ~ for you Jay!
Last week we went out to eat at Pizza Ranch. When Reign, was done eating she sat back in her chair and says... "Oh Jesus, My belly hurts" We prayed for her a lot when she broke her arm. When we would ask her who healed her arm she would answer, "Jesus make it better" so now when anything hurts she is sure to tell Jesus. She likes to lay hands on her dolls and pray for them. It is so cute!
The boys taught her all of her colors in TWO DAYS, purple is PURKLE. She is learning how to count. 123456-897.
Today I asked her to put something away for me and she gives me a quick... Sure mommy sure Reign do it!
while strapping her doll in the stroller she talks to it and says "good girl"!
My baby is felling down the steps.
Reign, is getting the concept of big and little. and high and low.
I have the HIPCUPS!
she sits at the table during dinner and sings about daddy in the airplane!
The boys taught her all of her colors in TWO DAYS, purple is PURKLE. She is learning how to count. 123456-897.
Today I asked her to put something away for me and she gives me a quick... Sure mommy sure Reign do it!
while strapping her doll in the stroller she talks to it and says "good girl"!
My baby is felling down the steps.
Reign, is getting the concept of big and little. and high and low.
I have the HIPCUPS!
she sits at the table during dinner and sings about daddy in the airplane!
Navy Seals
Jay was invited to join the Navy Seals for a BBQ. He said it was the best steak and potato salad he has had in awhile. I guess there are quite a few of these guys on base and they are doing a great job; keeping my husband and the other soldiers safe. It is their job to go outside the wire and get the bad guys. I ask that you pray for the seals and I trust that God will continue to give these "elite" the insight, wisdom, strength, peace, courage, and the sound mind they need to continue with this mission in Jesus name!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Salsa
For the last 3 weeks the boys and I have been busy canning "SALSA" Jay has received one box, and another one is in the mail. I hope you like the salsa honey!... it wasn't the same without your help this year. I MISS YOU in the kitchen with me.
A family update for Jay...
Andrew with all of his ol' youth group friends at Cory and Tera's wedding!
On Friday Andrew, was in one of his good friend Cory's wedding in Mankato, after that I headed back to Le Center to watch Tyler's football game agains Blooming Prairie, (they lost to a tough game) 26-38. We got home about 11-ish and I could not fall asleep for nothing... I think I finally fell asleep around 3:30am the alarm went off at 6:30 and it was time to pack up and head to the MN Zoo. today was "Military Kids Day" Reign was sooo crabby all day. (and Mom was exhausted) We got home around 5pm and the boys were off to a "lock in" at the church. North Central University will be there doing worship and the preaching, along with all kinds of gladiator games. All the youth have an opportunity to fight a gladiator... named "Andrew Harmon" Lol! Thanks Honey, for the flowers... you made my day! I love them!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Instant message between another army wife
This is my new world, along with so many others that share it! I deleted "her name" for privacy.. I hope maybe a few of you get this...
are you around
?
Nancy Harmon: im here, not for long though.. whats up
what about later this afternoon?
i just need to talk but I'm not really ready right now....
Nancy Harmon: call me, ill talk while I run around here like a chicken with her head cut off if thats ok
I am in no condition to talk. I have to drive up to stupid to IGH.
I was thinking maybe later...
Nancy Harmon: i just need to back away from the computer. ok um well later later? might work
I will text you or something when I get back.
Nancy Harmon: ok
talk to ya soon then. Thanks
Nancy Harmon: :)
nancy....
Nancy Harmon: yeah
please pray for protection over my husbands heart
Nancy Harmon: his heart is covered in the blood and Jesus is massaging it right now to keep it soft towards him....
i have not stopped crying in 3 days
Nancy Harmon: ok, well by the time you stop i will prolly start! we need
each other! that is for sure! maybe I will come to see you later later... i will see how my day/night goes.. I need to get a hair cut and my nails done really really bad!
i slept long enough last night to have one dream
and that was that a car pulled up to my front door. a black car with notification officers in it.
Nancy Harmon: cast down all vain imaginations
Nancy Harmon: that is what his word says
Nancy Harmon: its a lie from the devil
Nancy Harmon: if you buy it he laughs
something wicked has a hold of his heart
Nancy Harmon: he is an idiot
i know
Nancy Harmon: that was the same lie i fell for the week jay called me and HAD TO GO
i called chaplain thompson and read him the email my hubby sent me
Nancy Harmon: the devil is an idiot.. hope you got that
he said he would email lotzer
i did. i know
Nancy Harmon: ok, u need to let go and let God, easier said than done I know.. but you have done your part!
Nancy Harmon: have you called ppl at church to be interceding for him?
yes
i even told the youth to work on it
Nancy Harmon: ok.. it is being done in the supernatural and we will see it in the physical very very soon
he hasnt called or emailed or skyped me in 3 days
Nancy Harmon: it is ok, that is all i can say .. continue to send him emails he will read them
my sister in law is going to email him later too
Nancy Harmon: Believe GOD IS DOING SOMETIHNG positive in his heart these 3 days
i emailed him and told him to look at our son’s senior pics
i know god is.
my knees hurt
Nancy Harmon: he is dependant on you.. maybe GOD is allowing your hubby to depend on him!
in jesus name
Nancy Harmon: whatever WE BELIEVE and ask for in his name it is ours. so we believe
one last thing.....
Nancy Harmon: k
thank you for being my best friend
i could never have made it through this deployment without you
Nancy Harmon: i love you.. just wait, pms is just around the corner and you will be giving me the exact advice lol! :)
YAY!!!
I LOVE your PMS :)
Nancy Harmon: ttyl I will call or you text me later
see... you made me SMILE
thank you
Nancy Harmon: GOD IS GOOD!
are you around
?
Nancy Harmon: im here, not for long though.. whats up
what about later this afternoon?
i just need to talk but I'm not really ready right now....
Nancy Harmon: call me, ill talk while I run around here like a chicken with her head cut off if thats ok
I am in no condition to talk. I have to drive up to stupid to IGH.
I was thinking maybe later...
Nancy Harmon: i just need to back away from the computer. ok um well later later? might work
I will text you or something when I get back.
Nancy Harmon: ok
talk to ya soon then. Thanks
Nancy Harmon: :)
nancy....
Nancy Harmon: yeah
please pray for protection over my husbands heart
Nancy Harmon: his heart is covered in the blood and Jesus is massaging it right now to keep it soft towards him....
i have not stopped crying in 3 days
Nancy Harmon: ok, well by the time you stop i will prolly start! we need
each other! that is for sure! maybe I will come to see you later later... i will see how my day/night goes.. I need to get a hair cut and my nails done really really bad!
i slept long enough last night to have one dream
and that was that a car pulled up to my front door. a black car with notification officers in it.
Nancy Harmon: cast down all vain imaginations
Nancy Harmon: that is what his word says
Nancy Harmon: its a lie from the devil
Nancy Harmon: if you buy it he laughs
something wicked has a hold of his heart
Nancy Harmon: he is an idiot
i know
Nancy Harmon: that was the same lie i fell for the week jay called me and HAD TO GO
i called chaplain thompson and read him the email my hubby sent me
Nancy Harmon: the devil is an idiot.. hope you got that
he said he would email lotzer
i did. i know
Nancy Harmon: ok, u need to let go and let God, easier said than done I know.. but you have done your part!
Nancy Harmon: have you called ppl at church to be interceding for him?
yes
i even told the youth to work on it
Nancy Harmon: ok.. it is being done in the supernatural and we will see it in the physical very very soon
he hasnt called or emailed or skyped me in 3 days
Nancy Harmon: it is ok, that is all i can say .. continue to send him emails he will read them
my sister in law is going to email him later too
Nancy Harmon: Believe GOD IS DOING SOMETIHNG positive in his heart these 3 days
i emailed him and told him to look at our son’s senior pics
i know god is.
my knees hurt
Nancy Harmon: he is dependant on you.. maybe GOD is allowing your hubby to depend on him!
in jesus name
Nancy Harmon: whatever WE BELIEVE and ask for in his name it is ours. so we believe
one last thing.....
Nancy Harmon: k
thank you for being my best friend
i could never have made it through this deployment without you
Nancy Harmon: i love you.. just wait, pms is just around the corner and you will be giving me the exact advice lol! :)
YAY!!!
I LOVE your PMS :)
Nancy Harmon: ttyl I will call or you text me later
see... you made me SMILE
thank you
Nancy Harmon: GOD IS GOOD!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Half Way Point Party
Today we got together with some of the Military Families from HSC in IGH. We were celebrating the half way point of the deployment. The kids had a great time playing in the gym and making new friends. We decorated cards to send to the soldiers.
The First Week of School!
Go Tyler... #52!
We had a great first week of school. The boys are each taking two classes at the High School this year. They are both at school for 2 hours each morning. I needed to take a little step back with homeschooling. I think in the end it will benefit all of us. Tyler has had two football games and Caleb has had one. They have won all of the games.
My sister Julie, and sister in law Julie are taking turns with watching Reign so I can get to Tyler's games on Friday nights. I have brought Reign with me to Caleb's games and it is extrememly difficult to say the least.
Speaking of Reign; her arm is healing great. She should get her cast off next week.
Each Friday we meet with the Scott County Home Educators in Prior Lake. The boys had a great time playing Lacrosse and getting to know other Home School Families.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Broken Arm
Wednesday night about 10p.m. Reign had to go poddy and started holding her bottom with one hand and started doing the poddy dance, the next thing I new she had lost her balance and fell; landing on her right arm. I knew something was wrong. She was crying, I was not sure if it was because she fell or because she had to go poddy. She peed in her pants and I put her in the shower quick and noticed that she would not move her arm. She was still upset, but she was also very ~ very tired. When I got her dressed I noticed that she was protecting her arm. I thought maybe she bruised it and we will look at it in the morning. Well, she was up all night off and on kind of moaning and saying owie arm. She snuggled in bed with me for the evening. I debated on taking her in at 2 am and then decided to wait until early morning. 8am we were at the clinic and taking x-rays. YEP, it is fractured! We will see her pediatrician tomorrow for an already scheduled 2 year check-up. Then from there we will go to a specialist. She is doing so good, PRAISE GOD! it is a little tender. I think she feels better with the cast on and having it protected. She has been praying and asking Christ to heal her arm.. it is so precious to see her talk to Jesus! She is my first child to have ever broke a bone... Jay says, "leave it to the girl".
We went to Perkins after the clinic to eat, As we were leaving Perkins I was looking for my keys for the van. Caleb opened the door and we realized that the keys were still in the ignition and the van was still running! (about an hour) We then went to Walmart to get some Tylenol for Reign. I needed to replace a cell phone for Caleb... because just the other day I WASHED his brand new phone. JESUS help all of us! I think I may have too much on my mind.
Everyday I learn to continue to rest in HIM!
He is MY PEACE! :-)
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Reign's Birthday ~
September 1st I decided to have a small birthday party for our "lil pumkin pie" Miss. Reign Elizabeth-Grace. Hannah and Sarah came over and joined myself and the boys. I simply did not have the emotional energy to put on anything bigger than that. It was the first time she had ever opened up presents! (that she could remember) She loved her princess dresses, shoes, baby doll, and of course her Elmo balloon and cheesecake! She calls any kind of cake (cheesecake) since daddy has been home. We played all day on September 2nd with all the new toys.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
September 2, 2007 ~ YES, 2007
Several years ago, A friend of mine named Donna had a dream. In her dream the Lord, told her that Jay and I were going to have a baby. A few months after the dream she felt lead to share it with us. Of course Jay laughed out loud and said "yeah right!” Jay was 45, and it had been 11 years since the last baby! Do I need to say anymore?
I prayed for about a year for the Lord, to change Jay's heart if it was indeed His will for us to have another child. One year later Jay and I found ourselves praying together for God's will for another baby! :-)
Honestly we kind of forgot about it.
Until: December of 2007 Christmas Vacation!
I woke up in the middle of the night and I saw Jesus standing next to my bedside. He was very gentle and peaceful and he said to me; "I have given you a daughter and you will name her Reign, because I REIGN!" I actually argued with him about the name several times I told him that reign was a dumb name for a girl. He very gently repeated himself 3 times as I argued with him; "You WILL name her Reign, because I REIGN!"
So I finally gave in and as I sat up to ask him about a middle name he was gone!
I seriously thought this was some kind of spiritual dream, NOT PHYSICAL. I really thought the Lord was going to birth something new in my life and perhaps reign as never before. I was leading a woman’s Bible study in my home at the time, and I thought God was going to move in their lives in an amazing way.
I shared this dream with everyone… for those of you that do not know me; this is how God speaks to me. He speaks to me in visions and dreams. I was tossing this vision out to my friends to help me try and understand what it all meant. About six weeks later I decided to take a pregnancy test, for obvious reasons!
I WAS PREGNANT!
I freaked and started to shake and cry.. telling Jay OMG I really meant Oh MY God!
what if it is a GIRL! What if? What if? I had wanted to have a girl for over 17 years. Did I really see Christ? Did He really speak to me? Am I going CRAZY?
We had THREE ultra sounds that said, GIRL! A huge baby shower (with over 75 gifts!) all PINK! I was very nervous!
During this time God changed my heart… Even though I had desired to have a daughter. My desire changed. My desire now was…
“Lord, I only desire for this baby to be a girl so many people will KNOW that YOU are GOD and the YOU are STILL ALIVE and SPEAK to us TODAY!
When I count back the days from my actual due date; conception took place the last week in December. crazy huh?
Reign was born one month early (in God’s eyes she was born right on time) She was born on Donna’s Birthday September 2, 2007. The Lord Blessed Donna and confirmed to her as well, that she in fact had heard His voice!
Christ is ALIVE! He loves you so very much, and he desires to have a relationship with you!
Blessings
Nancy
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Gotta Go!
We were able to talk on the phone for the first time in a week, that is about the average communication lately. The siren goes off, you can hear stuff in the back ground and GOTTA GO!! are the last words that are spoken! Can anyone say NeRvOuS bReAk-DoWn! I absolutley hate when this happens, the GUT WRENCHING pain inside the pit of my stomach, trying not to shake, sob, throw up!
Trusting God, to protect Him, and thoughts of two dressed soldiers coming to my door the next day was the emotional~spiritual battle going on inside of me! Naturally I started to PRAY in the spirit as I text the prayer warriors to start praying. I cranked up the worship music and cried, prayed, worshiped for what seemed like hours.
I get a text from Jay saying he is ok, they are waiting for an all clear, and he is not sure if anyone is wounded or killed. Now I am supposed to go on with my day as normal... WHAT THE HECK IS NORMAL!?
THE LIFE OF AN ARMY SPOUSE... and everyone asks.. HOW ARE YOU DOING!? well, this afternoon NOT SO GOOD!
The picture above is of a "Non-Smoking" Bunker thanks to "SSG Urbacke"
Here is an e-mail I recieved from Jay, the next day. Once the excitement calmed down...
Everything is fine here. I slept really hard last night, with the heat and the extra excitement! They did not hit the base. I am fine, I am glad the Lord, had me go to the bunker I was at, so I could let you know everything was fine!
I hope you can tell I am very proud of you for what you are doing without me to keep our family running smoothly! I could ramble on all day about you and the sacrifices you have also made while I have been gone.
LOVE YOU MORE AND MORE EACH DAY!
THANK YOU JESUS FOR SUCH AN AMAZING WIFE YOU HAVE GIVEN ME! XOXOX!
Trusting God, to protect Him, and thoughts of two dressed soldiers coming to my door the next day was the emotional~spiritual battle going on inside of me! Naturally I started to PRAY in the spirit as I text the prayer warriors to start praying. I cranked up the worship music and cried, prayed, worshiped for what seemed like hours.
I get a text from Jay saying he is ok, they are waiting for an all clear, and he is not sure if anyone is wounded or killed. Now I am supposed to go on with my day as normal... WHAT THE HECK IS NORMAL!?
THE LIFE OF AN ARMY SPOUSE... and everyone asks.. HOW ARE YOU DOING!? well, this afternoon NOT SO GOOD!
The picture above is of a "Non-Smoking" Bunker thanks to "SSG Urbacke"
Here is an e-mail I recieved from Jay, the next day. Once the excitement calmed down...
Everything is fine here. I slept really hard last night, with the heat and the extra excitement! They did not hit the base. I am fine, I am glad the Lord, had me go to the bunker I was at, so I could let you know everything was fine!
I hope you can tell I am very proud of you for what you are doing without me to keep our family running smoothly! I could ramble on all day about you and the sacrifices you have also made while I have been gone.
LOVE YOU MORE AND MORE EACH DAY!
THANK YOU JESUS FOR SUCH AN AMAZING WIFE YOU HAVE GIVEN ME! XOXOX!
It all depends on the day....
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
"This deployment is harder than Jay, and I both thought it would be". Some days are harder than others!
"This deployment is easier than Jay, and I thought it would be". Some days are easier than others!
Depending on the day... I feel both! "ONE DAY AT A TIME"
I know in my heart that this tour is an extended missions trip for both Jay and I. We have had opportunity to minister to other military families as they in return "unknowingly" themselves minister to us. I have a joy in my spirit this morning and excitement for what Jesus is going to be doing in the hearts of the Army Wives he has placed in my life. I have opened my home to several ladies and they are WANTING to be here. One lady said she feels so relaxed when she is here... Praise God for his presence in my home!
Last night I had an opportunity to pray for another Army Wife, she is 24 has two children under the age of 2 and is waiting for tests results of cervical cancer.
Yesterday I shared with an Army Husband that Jay and I are praying for them, as his wife has filed for divorce while she is in Iraq. They have three beautiful girls under the age of 12. He barely held back the tears!
Another husband just went back to Iraq from his leave time... is having trouble with blood in his stool. I'm know it is STRESS related.
Jay and I have our own issues to deal with like everyone else. I could NOT IMAGINE doing this without CHRIST in our lives! Pray for their salvation... God knows their names. My heart aches for these families, yet GOD is in CONTROL! and I expect Him to move in a Mighty Way.
Blessings this Morning!
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
"This deployment is harder than Jay, and I both thought it would be". Some days are harder than others!
"This deployment is easier than Jay, and I thought it would be". Some days are easier than others!
Depending on the day... I feel both! "ONE DAY AT A TIME"
I know in my heart that this tour is an extended missions trip for both Jay and I. We have had opportunity to minister to other military families as they in return "unknowingly" themselves minister to us. I have a joy in my spirit this morning and excitement for what Jesus is going to be doing in the hearts of the Army Wives he has placed in my life. I have opened my home to several ladies and they are WANTING to be here. One lady said she feels so relaxed when she is here... Praise God for his presence in my home!
Last night I had an opportunity to pray for another Army Wife, she is 24 has two children under the age of 2 and is waiting for tests results of cervical cancer.
Yesterday I shared with an Army Husband that Jay and I are praying for them, as his wife has filed for divorce while she is in Iraq. They have three beautiful girls under the age of 12. He barely held back the tears!
Another husband just went back to Iraq from his leave time... is having trouble with blood in his stool. I'm know it is STRESS related.
Jay and I have our own issues to deal with like everyone else. I could NOT IMAGINE doing this without CHRIST in our lives! Pray for their salvation... God knows their names. My heart aches for these families, yet GOD is in CONTROL! and I expect Him to move in a Mighty Way.
Blessings this Morning!
Monday, August 24, 2009
The PX
Here is a photo of the px (shopping center) The shelves are empty most of the time. There are too many soldiers, to keep the shelves stocked! KEEP WRITING LETTERS AND SEND THOSE CARE PACKAGES! WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! if you were in a desert for a year, you would want to stay in touch with family and friends. I CANNOT STRESS IT ENOUGH! send photos of your family, have your kids draw pictures, send a care package, write a letter with some scripture in it to encourage Jay! If you need any ideas I am a phone call ~ e-mail away!
Christian Coffee House
Here is a photo of Holy Joes. This is a Christian coffee tent. It is a tent sprayed with insulation! I thought at first it was the chapel, and then Jay corrected me. (oops)
Not just Hot... HUMID too
In Iraq....This puddle was NOT created by rain. It is from all of the humiditiy in the air YUCK HuH?
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Love and Faithfulness
Today is a "NEW DAY" soak in His LOVE and FAITHFULNESS
Lamentations 3:22-23
Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful!
I Praise the Lord, for protecting the area that Jay and the other troops are in. He had only four hours of sleep the other night. A little excitement once again!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
We made it to the "HALF WAY POINT"
February 12th Jay left for Seattle Washington. August 12th is the half way point, and MY BIRTHDAY! Jay surprised me with FLOWERS! There is nothing better for a woman than when her guy plans ahead! He is scoring very high with his wife! I LOVE YOU JAY, THANK YOU FOR THE FLOWERS!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Send Letters ~ Cards to IRAQ!
Please continue/or start to send Jay letters and cards. It means so much to him to recieve mail. Now that he has been home it is going to be especially difficult to be away. Right now the only thing that he is requesting is calling cards! make sure they are AT&T cards! send pictures of your families and have your children make/color pictures. He really does hang them up in his office. He has a several pictures colored from the little Ling girls and loves it!
Thank you for all of your love and support! This deployment has been harder than we had first expected!
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