"E"mote

God's Soft Spot

2012-02-09T12:02:00.000-08:00

Jeremiah 18:7-8 "If at any time I declare concerning a nation or a kingdom, that I will pluck up and break down and destroy it, and if that nation, concerning which I have spoken, turns from its evil, I will relent of the disaster that I intended to do to it."

These verses really hit my heart today. I've been reading straight through the Old Testament for awhile now, and am in Jeremiah. Let me tell you... not for the faint of heart. The word "whore" is used often in the first several chapters, and when my buddy at work would use that word I would cringe, physically, because I was thinking about the beat down the Israelites were getting from the Big Guy. But more importantly it kept causing me to revisit the things in my life that I am whoring out to other gods... and let me tell you, there are lots!

Then there's God, as usual... letting a little light shine in. :) "...if that nation, turns from its evil, I will relent of the disaster that I intended to do to it." God's soft spot - a repentant heart. Nothing new, nothing profound... the same message. In the same way that he has to repeat it over and over and over and over and over and over to the Israelites, he repeats it to my wondering heart. Again, the grace and mercy of God never ceasing to amaze me. No matter what we've done, or how far away we feel we have fallen, God will relent of the disaster that we deserve to have fall upon us, and lavish us with his love, grace, and blessings.

"That's What I Love About Sunday's"

2011-09-25T17:52:00.000-07:00

I stole that title from a country song, hence the quotation marks.

For the last 2-3 months Bo & I have been on a church rotation basis. I wouldn't recommend this for just anyone, but for this season of life for us it is working really well. Will's morning nap is right during church, and this was not a problem for awhile because he would fall asleep during the service with a bottle or rocking, and that was that. However, since the little guy's become mobile there was no more falling asleep during the service... This just made church miserable for Bo & I, probably moreso me than Bo, because with me being pregnant & him on slides or lights chasing the little booger around because he was too cranky to go to the nursery did not bode well - then making Bo miserable (or at least me trying and I'm pretty sure succeeding to make him miserable as well). :)

So... all of that to say, this morning was my morning on duty. I wanted to share some of what I journaled this morning as it describes what my on-duty "routine" has been looking like, and I'm loving it.

.... "I've just been spending some quiet & peaceful time on the porch while Will is sleeping. It's a beautiful fall day, I have my yummy new candle lit - Yankee's "Nature's Paintbrush," - sipping some coffee, cuddled up under a blanket, with the fuzz of the baby monitor in the background. Although my thoughts & the Holy Spirit are inaudible they are as full in the air as the aroma of my candle."

This morning I was praising God & getting excited about the arrival of our baby girl Sarah (honey, if you turn out to be a boy... sorry buddy! we're still excited for you!) However, I also feel bad for Will, because we can't help him prepare for her arrival. We can't sit him down and explain what's going on, but he can say "Baby Sarah" so maybe that will help? So this was my prayer for him this morning:

"God, please prepare his little heart. I don't want him to feel left out, abandoned, or less loved. I pray for energy to give time & attention to him even though there are sleepless nights ahead. God be sweet & tender with him in this time and give him wisdom & understanding of the situation. Fill his heart with great love & care for his baby sister. May Bo & I have great patience with him if he has more tantrums & outbursts with the need to get our attention. Fill all of us with Your grace & mercy."

In Jesus Name!

Approximately 4 more weeks until Baby Sarah's arrival! :)

Summer Review

2011-08-21T19:19:00.000-07:00

Since I'm kind of a blog slacker... I am just going to post some highlighting pics from our summer. It has been great, and we were blessed to go on vacation with my family and do some fun stuff with Will! We kicked off the summer with brother's beautiful wedding in May, followed by vacation to Hilton Head in June, did some swimming and playing at home in July, and went to the fair & zoo in August! Enjoy!

It Is Finished

2011-08-07T07:39:00.001-07:00

I'm a little late in blogging, but I did want to recap how the New in 30 went. I did finish, and on time! Although I didn't stick to the daily plan, I read the New Testament in about 10 days instead of 30 :) Will & I also made it through his Bible, which was sweet.

It never ceases to amaze me that God makes His heart known to us. When I start a new study or reading plan, I always have the hope that God is going to reveal something BIG & NEW to me - maybe something I've missed in the past, or haven't been taught yet. However, I continually find that He continues to reveal His grace, truth, love, & mercy deeper and more intimately. I find this refreshing, yet also convicting because these things are often in conflict with my selfishness, anger, pride, you name it...

It really is all about loving God and loving others - I think about this all of the time, often in a very astonished tone. And that God gives us the power, to those who trust in Him, through His Holy Spirit to live in this truth.

God, my constant prayer is to be a lover of You and people as You have called me to be. I pray for this for Will to - that he will know and show your grace, mercy, compassion, and love to people. I pray that our family would continue to fall deeply in love with you so that we may more deeply love.

Marky Mark

2011-07-13T15:07:00.000-07:00

Or Stevey Steve as my mom likes to say!

Kicked off Mark today! So I'm always intrigued by Jesus' interaction with demons. There's never any doubt of who's who - meaning, they always know who Jesus is and the power He has over them. There is no doubt that there is a major spiritual war going on that is "unseen." I know it and I feel it. However, I know that as being a daughter of Christ I can claim the same authority and power of this darkness and demons as Jesus was. So why don't I? Is it really easier to be selfish, and wallow in my self-pity? Is it easier to be bitter and angry and throw temper tantrums? Sometimes I think so. And they make me feel better... for a little bit.

One of the lessons that Jesus teaches over and over and over is that in the Kingdom of Heaven the first will be last and last will be first, and that we are to give and serve others. "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." - 10: 45 In my experiences, it has always been better, more fulfilling, and more satisfying when I'm giving myself to others vs. trying to see what I can get from others. That used to be a continual challenge to myself, and it's one I've sadly strayed from. Especially in becoming a parent, and ESPECIALLY if you are breastfeeding a child... I felt like I was giving EVERYTHING to my child, and had no claim to self. I think it's a fun adventure seeking out how to encourage people in ways that speak love to them - like baking things for my coworkers, or letting them know that I appreciate something they are doing. I'm not at complimenting others, I would say it is because of pride - fear of rejection.

Mark 8:34-35 - “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it."

Finishing Act(s)

2011-07-13T14:47:00.001-07:00

I'm a little behind on my reading as well as my blogging, so I'm going to try to do some catch up here. I finished reading Acts - chapters 16 through the end over the weekend, and felt like I was much more engaged in reading through this book than I ever have before.

Something that struck me was Paul's composure as he appealed to several judges regarding the charges brought against him. He spoke with honor, respect, integrity, and intelligence. It gave him a great platform as he was able to testify of his conversion not only in front of these people of influence, but all who gathered to watch his trials. You can tell he was just one of those people who when he spoke, people just listened. You wonder how many conversions came from his testimonies.

"Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen." Acts 28:28

The Good News!

2011-07-06T19:06:00.000-07:00

Today I read Acts 5-15, and I must confess that I was pretty tired this morning. This was day 2 of arriving at Starbucks by 6, so that I could read and hop over to work by 7, and I lost focus quite a bit.

I've really enjoyed going from Matthew into Acts. A couple of the things that caught my attention - Saul/Paul's conversion, and "the good news!" We should start with the good news because it leads right into Paul's conversion.

I just want to start by saying the phrase good news is a warm and fuzzy spot for me. When I was in grade school I went to Good News Club. Like I said before I heard this "good news" when I was very young, and I asked Jesus to come into my heart - just how my Grandma put it, who prayed with me. And can I say this is more than good news, it's GREAT news! FANTASTIC news! This is not on life-saving, but life-changing news. Read below, and get excited:

Acts 10:34-43

New International Version (NIV)

³⁴ Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism ³⁵ but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. ³⁶ You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. ³⁷ You know what has happened throughout the province of Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached— ³⁸ how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.

³⁹ “We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a cross, ⁴⁰ but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. ⁴¹ He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. ⁴² He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. ⁴³ All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

This good news, this transforming power that came through the resurrection of Christ is what changed Paul's life. Paul wasn't just your average Jewish Joe Schmoe hanging out at the synagogue - he was a hard core, Christian persecutor/murderer, leader of the Jews. And he was radically changed by the Holy Spirit - if you've never read Acts and about Paul's conversion, it's a must read! This man would have studied the scriptures all of his life, and known the law just as well, if not better, than everyone else but could not deny his encounter with God.

I get down sometimes, and life doesn't make sense... but I can never deny how I've encountered the living God. I've "tasted and seen" His goodness and His power, and not just in my own life, but in others lives around me as well. Praise God for His redemption of ALL people! A little gentile like myself becoming a co-heir with Christ (Romans 8:17).

I don't know if anyone reads my blog... but sweet friends, if you're not sure about this good news, or where you stand with God. Please consider it! There's nothing more intimate than a journey with your Creator!

Peter

2011-07-05T18:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I talked about how I often identify with Peter, and today's reading - finishing up Matthew, and beginning Acts I really got a glimpse of how his life was transformed by the Holy Spirit. Peter went from denying Jesus to becoming a powerful preacher of the gospel.

All of which is made possible by the death & resurrection of Jesus. The ultimate sacrifice and act of obedience. As I've read through Matthew you see that Jesus, while being fully God, was fully man. He got hungry. He felt. He cried out to His Father "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" - "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" He felt the sting of being separated from God - Can you relate?

I gave my life to Christ a very young age, 4 or so, but I really began in intimate journey with Him 12 years ago. I go through periods where I feel that sting of separation from my Creator, by no means comparing mine to what Jesus felt - because He did no wrong. I deserve the pain and the consequence of death for being a sinful being. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift from God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord." I'm not sure I will ever understand the depths of the grace of God. Even today, as my anger is kindled at the feeling of injustice in the Casey Anthony trial, I think of how she is not beyond God's grace. God rejoices when even one gives thier life to Him - all those parables about lost sheep & coins, and that includes Casey Anthony.

God, I pray that I would take rest in your abundant grace. I pray that I would share that love and grace with others, so that they might taste & see of your goodness. We are all in desperate need of you - our God, Creator, Savior, Redeemer!! I can't fathom that not only do you want to save us from our fate of eternal death and separation from You, you have great things in store for us. Forgive me for not always beleiving that. Your plan for me is far greater than my own. Continue to redeem this broken vessel Lord Jesus.

Day 2

2011-07-04T17:21:00.000-07:00

Thoughts on day 2's reading - Matthew 13-23

A lot of parables, which at times don't make sense, but thankfully! Jesus explains them, for the most part, the Holy Spirit does the rest! What theme's did I see over and over? Jesus' love and compassion for people, all people, and his emphasis on loving, looking out for, and serving the poor. A phrase often used in reference to the Pharisees & Sadducees - 'You brood of vipers!' I alway's shudder when I read through Jesus rebuking the Pharisees & Sadducees, and I think it's because I feel like I can often fall into times where I have the head knowledge, but not the heart engagement. Nevertheless, it leads me to pray - I pray that I am not a hypocrite, or dishonoring God when I speak of Him or am sharing His Word. I ask Him to reveal those things so that I can seek change, through Him.

There is actually a lot of passages that I love in these 10 chapters. The Parable's regarding God's joy in just one person coming to know Him. I still find myself in awe, in a very childlike way, on Jesus feeding the 4 and 5 thousand + people. In reading about the crowds that followed Jesus, I try to picture myself there, and I feel like I would just follow along, and stare at Him. How sweet would that be... to get a glimpse. I get choked up and teary-eyed just thinking about it. One day... :)

And then there's Peter... I have always connected to Peter. "O you of little faith" in chapter 14, then in chapter 16 as Peter proclaims Jesus is the Christ, "on this rock I will build my church... I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven..." I know this isn't unique to just me, but man, I feel that battle - between faith and logic. Something I keep thinking about is that my faith and logic don't always cohabitate well together!

May we seek to love the Lord God with all our heart, mind, and soul, and love our neighbors as ourselves! Oh, also, I've decided Will & I are going to read through the New Testament in his kiddie Bible too! :) I think I get just as much out of it's simple 15-20 word sections!

New In 30

2011-07-03T19:12:00.000-07:00

Our church is doing a challenge called "New in 30," which means reading the New Testament in 30 days. I personally love a good challenge in reading the Word, and actually thought it was just what I needed as I've hit a lull in my Old Testament readings.

Today's assignment was to read Matthew 1-12, that's right, 12 chapters in one day! I actually got a little head start yesterday so I wouldn't be as overwhelmed by it today. This was much needed as Matthew starts out with the lineage of Jesus, briefly goes through JC's birth & before I knew it we were in the Sermon on the Mount in chapter 5. I alway's kind of find myself dumbfounded as I read through Jesus' preaching here, because it's such a slap in the face to any rule-keeping or checklist following religion that is living in my heart. Praise the Lord for his graciousness at the end of chapter 11, which felt like a breath of fresh air:

²⁵ At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. ²⁶ Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do.²⁷ “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.²⁸ “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

I'm coming Lord!! I'm weary and burdened! I'm alway's feeling conflicted and/or convicted when reading these chapters, because Jesus is calling us to become the least in order to receive the greatest reward. I can't exactly explain or comprehend what this means, but I know that I don't always seek to put others above myself... I seek selfish gain.

As I'm flipping back through the pages I read I see there is so much good stuff - the Salt & Light section, Laying up Treasures in Heaven, Ask & it will be Given sections... all contain verses that have really hit me at one time or another. But for this read through, this is all I've got...

Spring Break

2011-05-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

Well I guess since it's still officially spring, Bo isn't out of school, and the weather is still "springy"... I can still post about our spring breat that was like 2 months ago, or maybe just 1. I took a couple of days off work and Bo & I took Will down to Cincinnati. We did a little outlet shopping because the boy had grown out of most of his clothes, and we went to the Newport Aquarium. All were fun, but we were most excited about the 75 degree weather we drove into! We soaked up every minute of walking around the outlet mall, and then went back to the hotel for some swimming! See pics below!

We Interrupt This Special....

2011-03-27T14:27:00.000-07:00

I thought my title adequately described what happened to my Lent venture... My Lent adventure was interrupted with the knowledge that Baby Kessler #2 is on the way! :) So not a negative roadblock, but a huge one nonetheless. You may be wondering why becoming pregnant would interfere with one's journey in research and discipline.... well, my whole discipline meltdown happened when I was pregnant for Will. Thankfully, I have not had "morning" sickness this go round, but the fatigue & nausea are still full swing.

We are super excited for Baby #2, but it's overwhelming too. I feel like my energy meter was already maxed out, but I know that God will provide and in His grace and mercy He will get us through it!

Lent Findings Round 1

2011-02-28T16:44:00.000-08:00

Don't be confused with lint findings - I haven't been digging out the dust bunnies from under the couch cushions! haha

Seriously though, found some interesting and encouraging things on Wikipedia regarding Lent. Check this out:

The traditional purpose of Lent is the preparation of the believer — through prayer, penitence, almsgiving and self-denial — for the annual commemoration during Holy Week of the Death and Resurrection of Jesus, which recalls the events linked to the Passion of Christ and culminates in Easter, the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Sounds right up my alley! I'm all about prayer, penitence (repenting of sin), almsgiving (what I took from the definition I read is giving to others from your material possessions), and self-denial ("take up your cross and follow me" Matthew 16:24). All in which to celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ!!!

Also, found this section interesting:

Converts to Christianity followed a strict catechumenate or period of instruction and discipline prior to baptism. In Jerusalem near the close of the fourth century, classes were held throughout Lent for three hours each day. With the legalization of Christianity (by the Edict of Milan) and its later imposition as the state religion of the Roman Empire, its character was endangered by the great influx of new members. In response, the Lenten fast and practices of self-renunciation were required annually of all Christians, both to show solidarity with the catechumens, and for their own spiritual benefit. The less zealous converts were thus brought more securely into the Christian fold.

Hard to think of terms of the "legalization" of Christianity isn't it? We're so used to our religious freedom. Our ability to choose, or reject, whatever beliefs and ideals we want.

I'm getting more excited about this journey!

Discipline: Spirituality

2011-02-27T12:16:00.000-08:00

Once again... it's been awhile. I've been visiting my blog a lot lately thinking I really need to update this thing, but haven't taken the time to do it. Much of that coming from my lack of discipline, hence the title of this blog.

I think I should preface this blog with the terms in which I'm using the word discipline, because it has some different meanings, and in my head I do not consider myself a very disciplined person, but others may look at me, my life, the choices I make and agree or disagree depending on what they are judging it off of. I think this definition fits what I'm thinking the closest -

to bring to a state of order and obedience by training and control. (from my buddy dictionary.com) There are 2 ends of the spectrum, like most things in life, and I'm talking about discipline in the healthy sense of the word. Not a robotic regimen, but the freedom that comes from being obedient.

I've decided to break this blog up into multiple posts, because as I got going it was getting lengthy...

First topic of discussion - Spirituality. As a Christ-follower (Christian) I believe that I need to be in the Word, in prayer, and in community. Due to my lack of discipline, I currently am in the Word... when I feel like it. Pray... when I get around to it. In community... when it pursues me. All of that needs to change. Not out of legalism, but because I know what it's like to have those things working and functioning proper in my life, and I like it - I feel God's presence and work through these things. With lent approaching I have been thinking about these things, and I'm starting to pray about what God wants this thing to look like.

I've never "celebrated" Lent, and I can't really tell you a whole lot about why it's practiced or where it started. I know it has to do with prayer & fasting leading up to Easter, and I'm sure Google can help me find some answers, but I believe in prayer & fasting all throughout the year, and have not felt led in the past to do anything in particular during the season of Lent. Until this year... so here I am!

Spirituality has to be the first area I start because doing anything of my own will is for nothing. It all has to be for God and His glory!

So what are the other area's of my life I'm dissatisfied with, and have gotten thrown under the lack of discipline train? Exercise/Healthy Living & Money

Galations 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Silent Night

2010-12-09T20:13:00.000-08:00

Open heart, sky so bright;
almost like a silent night.

A sudden mist, across my face;
must I run, or just embrace?

Open sky, shines so bright;
it is anything but, a silent night.

I hear it again, oh so clear;
"Come, sweet child, please draw near."

Open heart, filled with light;
brings sweet release; yearning for, my silent night.

Blog-a-logging

2010-12-03T20:53:00.000-08:00

Man, I did so good for like a week! haha Here it is December 4th, and my big 'ole baby is 7 months old! Check out this little cutie patutie!

My little guy is getting so big! 5 teeth. Saying Mommamamama, Dadadada, duck, quack, pig, up, & possibly God - what can I say... he's holy! hahahaha My dad also claims he can say Chugington... but, nobody else has heard him say that one. :) He's a sweet little guy, and ornery as can be. I'm excited to celebrate this holiday season with a baby in the family!

"But the Lord was gracious..."

2010-11-15T17:38:00.000-08:00

Isn't that like the Lord? This is the beginning of 2 Kings 13:23, "But the Lord was gracious..."

Since the sentence starts with a "But" one can assume that the words before were contrary to the words that were going to follow. God's grace in it's most common form - obnoxious, undeserved, irrational.

I've been getting daily devotionals emailed to me from Moody Bible Institute and they have been going through the book of 2 Kings. I know, 2 Kinds, OT (no, not over time, Old Testament), snoozefest, right? Quite opposite, Elijah gets swept up into Heaven, Jezebel gets mauled by wild dogs - I recommend giving it a whirl! Anways, their verse was "But the LORD was gracious to them and had compassion and showed concern for them because of his covenant with them" This verse couldn't have topped off my morning any better... I was kind of crabby before I left for work this morning, and it was a morning I had to drop Will off at the babysitters. We always pray, well, I pray and Will was sleeping, and I was speaking to God candidly and confessing that my heart and my mind were in way, shape, or form aligned. As I was wrapping up my prayers I was just thanking the Holy Spirit for interceding on our behalf, and I felt peaceful and hopeful.

Fast forward a few hours, I'm at work, and Bo sends me an email, like he usually does, and asks me to pray for a meeting he was going to have with a student. I emailed him back, and told him I already did! While Will and I were praying on our way to work, I prayed for Bo & that he would have an opportunity to share God's grace, love, and truth with his students today! The Holy Spirit was using me to intercede on Bo's behalf! How cool is that? It was a refreshing moment for me and my walk with God - something that I had also prayed for that morning!

Psalm 147:1 Praise the Lord, How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him!

A Widow's Story

2010-11-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

2 Kings 4

Elisha and the Widow’s Oil

¹Now the wife of one of the sons of the prophets cried to Elisha, "Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the LORD, but the creditor has come to take my two children to be his slaves." ²And Elisha said to her, "What shall I do for you? Tell me; what have you in the house?" And she said, "Your servant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil." ³Then he said, "Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels and not too few. ⁴Then go in and shut the door behind yourself and your sons and pour into all these vessels. And when one is full, set it aside." ⁵So she went from him and shut the door behind herself and her sons. And as she poured they brought the vessels to her. ⁶When the vessels were full, she said to her son, "Bring me another vessel." And he said to her, "There is not another." Then the oil stopped flowing. ⁷She came and told the man of God, and he said, "Go, sell the oil and pay your debts, and you and your sons can live on the rest."

Events of the Bible, like the one above, reinforce that God not only provides what we need - he provides in abundance. Unfortunately, I can't say that I believe that. I want to, but if I'm taking an honest look at my heart and actions, I do not. Sounds silly doesn't it? "God, forgive me for my disbelief and please increase my faith?"

This story also makes me remember my friends in a far off land. I often forget that there are people around the world who's lives and circumstances can reflect the same scenario above - a widow, with children, left to provide in a culture where she has no status, respect, or significance (other than to bear children). I think of my friends, and I miss them. I wonder what their lives will bring, or how they have changed since I met them 2 years ago. I will probably never see them again... even if we went back, they would probably be difficult to track down. If they ever become widow's they will spend their day's on the dusty dirt roads begging for charity. They have no status in their society. I hope they find Jesus, and His provision! He still performs tangible miracles like he did back in the day of the Kings. "God, find them, and draw them to you. May they see you and allow You to provide for them!"

One day...

2010-11-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

Revelation 18:2
"Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great!"

These words put me at ease, and stir my heart for what's to come. Peace, rest, and celebration await us!!!!

Pop Culture

2010-11-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

A Year in the Making

2010-10-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

I can't remember what it was, but something happened a couple of days ago that caused me to stop & think about what was going on in my life last year at this time. I am normally a person who loves to reflect on the past, what God has done, and how He has brought me to where I'm at today, but when reflecting over this past year (I know you're thinking, Is it new year's or something?) it is extremely bittersweet. I digress...

Let's start with bitter, because I would rather end on a positive note of saweetness! Day's after finding out Bo & I were pregnant (after over a year of trying) we were told that Bo had a rare, most likely malignant, type of cancer. So what was I doing last year at this time? Making trips up to the University of Michigan's cancer unit for Bo's tests and surgery. I should go ahead an mention now, instead of making you wait till the 'Sweet' section that the specialists said Bo did NOT have cancer! I will never forget a couple of conversations that I had with God during that time. I will never forget the peace that I received from God at that time. And I will never ever forget how I almost vomited as I was thinking how wrong it was that I we were driving through the hospital/airport like roads following the signs to the cancer wing. I'm not gonna lie, I was mad at God at times. I didn't understand. However, I always claimed God's sovereignty and goodness. I remembered his faithfulness.

Second bitter/hard thing from this past year... my walk with God has reached all new levels this year! Unfortunately, not a good way, or at least it doesn't feel like it's a good thing. Prefacing this with, I was pregnant for the majority of the year, and unsure of the role my hormones played in the whole scenario (but I believe God is in control of all things, including my hormones) - I have never "felt" God's presence less in my life than this past year. Which really bums me out. One because I still feel that way; and two, because I was experiencing pregnancy for the first time. I had always imagined/dreamed of being pregnant, and had this vision of sweet hours (literally) of prayer for my unborn babe. I thought I would experience a closeness to God more than I ever had before - I mean it truly is a miraculous event of one's body & soul being knit together inside of you. But no, didn't "feel" it. Can you tell I'm very consumed by my feelings??? :) I'm grateful to God for blessing me with a mother who lifted (and continues to) my sweet baby boy up in prayer!

Ok, onto the Sweetness!!! You know that precious baby I've mentioned above! He is my sweetness!!!! I have never experienced a miracle that has blown me away more than having a child. I know that God does supernatural bonding and unifying when you marry your spouse, but the experience of child birth, and becoming a mom has brought a whole new meaning to the word miracle! Bo & I love and adore Will, and love watching him grow and learn how to do more things. Becoming a mom has opened my eyes to God's tender, fierce, jealous love for His children!

I don't know what God is up to, but I know it's ultimately going to be for His glory. I believe that part of journeying with God is being refined - that whole "dying to self" concept the Bible talks about. Not always fun. Definitely not always easy. But in God's infinite, obnoxious grace, it brings great joy and satisfaction to the soul. As our pastor often says - may I become less, so that He may become more.

Jeremiah 29
¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

Wild Barracuda's

2010-10-27T17:41:00.000-07:00

Have you ever learned something new, whether it be word or catch phrase, and all of the sudden you start hearing/seeing it everywhere.... well, I have had one of those instances recently. Pull up a chair, grab a hot mug of cider, snuggle up in your nice warm blanket and listen to my adventure in a northwest Ohio jungle.

It was a warm breezy day. I had scheduled a photo shoot for the beautiful Davis family at the 5-7-7 foundation. Wanting to be prepared for the photo shoot I went and scoped out the grounds for ideal settings and backgrounds. Now, I have been to the 5-7-7 foundation a couple of times in the past and knew there was a path that led down to the river, so I decided to check it out and make sure it was(n't) worth going down there to take pictures. First, I walked through a tall grassy area, and then proceeded down some gravel stairs in a wooded area. As I was walking in this wooded playground for the rabid squirrel and chipmunk folk, I remembered my fear of animals. I make it down to the water, not picturesque, and make my way back up the winding gravel terrain (while talking to my husband so someone could at least hear it if I start getting mulled by an animal). There was nothing sweeter than reaching the open prairie lands where civilization lay!

[See side note story below]

Sooo where is this wild barracuda, you may be asking yourself? I get back to work, and need to release the adrenaline from the anxiety of my forest frolic, so I go back to customer service to share my adventures (where the lovely Mrs. Davis works). Trying to keep my cool I begin my story with "I was almost attached by a barracuda at lunch" - not dramatic at all. My friend Heather asks, "did you get in the water or something?" Confused, I say... "no, why? do barracuda's like the water?" I hear laughter coming from the other cubicles.... So then I finally ask the question "What's a barracuda?????" Apparently it's a fish! And thanks to the wonderful worldwide web, I have posted a picture! Scary huh?? I think it might even be more frightening than the mountain lion type creature I was picturing mulling my face!

Since this day I have had multiple run-in's with barracuda's - the song, car, someone else sharing a story that involved a barracuda... you name it!

Side note story: The last time I was at the 5-7-7 foundation, which I think was roughly 6 years ago. I did actually have an encounter with the wild animal kingdom. I was walking down the trail mentioned above, and was pondering on my recent reading's of a book called 'Captivating.' The authors were sharing about their stories about how they asked God to give them a sign in that moment, and being the nature lovers that they are, a random animal appeared and they believed that was their sign from God. Well, me, the non-animal loving, nature (as long as there are not wild animals) enjoying, friendly self starts asking "God, I want an animal too... but God, you know I'm afraid of animals, so nothing scary, but something more than your average furry woodland squirrels & chipmunks because they are in abundance, and I might get that that's my sign. I kid you not, 5 steps later Bambi's mom has stopped dead in her tracks & is staring at me. "Woah God, I must have thought you were listening that close." But I was thankful, because I wasn't scared, and I knew it was God - I don't believe in coincidence.

So there you have it folks!

Material Girl

2010-10-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

Oh Madonna, we are living in a material world, and I am a material girl. ha! Although, joking aside, I have never been more focused on money than I have been since Will has been born. Do I work? Do I stay at home? Do I try something part-time? What's the modern day mom to do.... I know it's different for everyone, and I don't really have a "choice" at this point in time, but as Bo & I continue to manage our finances, and pay off our loans... where are we headed? Will we ever get ahead? Will we be able to save money for our kids? It's a constant struggle, and emotional roller-coaster.

I have heard, and am now experiencing, that battle that mom's face - questioning what I'm doing, and where God has me right now; feeling guilty for making a decision one way or the other...

My soul is thirsty for still waters. Seeking out God's will & my desire is to be obedient.

Love is in the Air...

2010-10-25T17:34:00.001-07:00

Since I'm blogging about it, and photographed the occasion, it is official - my brother is engaged! haha My brother, Mike, proposed to Kristen in August, and they have been planning away for their May wedding. I'm very excited to be adding another sister to the clan, but I have to admit I'm a little jealous... Kristen gets to become a "Conrad." When I got married I was sad to lose my last name - I liked it, it had meaning to me, was a part of who I am/was, and it was fun to write (y'know that girl thing). :) I think that Kristen is a great addition to our family, and it has been fun getting to know her better.

I've been blessed by getting the opportunity to express my creativity through photography. I really love taking pictures, and continuing to experiment with poses and settings. My sister's engagement shoot was one of my first photo shoots, and I'm so blessed to have had the opportunity to do other engagement, family, and wedding shoots since then. It's fun to engage with people's families as I take their pictures. Check out a couple shots below!

Jillian's 30 Day Shred

2010-07-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

I'm on day 2 of doing Jillian Michael's 30 day shred workout video. 20 minutes (including warm-up and cool down) of strength training, cardio, and abs - the 20 minute part was what sucked me in. I'm a sucker for low commitment, quick result oriented things. :) Especially with having a 3 month old. We'll see if I make it to day 10. I hope so, because it does feel good to work up a sweat every now and then!

HOT-LANTA!

2010-07-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

10 days, 5 states, 2 of the greatest grandparents, 1 kidnap-threatening auntie = 1 happy and spoiled baby!!! Will & I just got back from visiting my sister, Shauna, and her husband in Atlanta (Daddy joined us for a few days). We had a great time, and I got to do some things while PoPo watched Will - went to see Eclipse (go Team Edward!), did some outlet mall shopping, and hit up Starbucks! It was a great trip to finish up my maternity leave - only 1 more week left! God has been sweet, and I don't feel like my time has gone too fast. Don't get me wrong, I would love staying home more with my little guy, but I have really enjoyed the time we have had. Enjoy highlights below!

Here are some pics from some spontaneous photo shoots of Will.

Will with his Auntie Shauna & Uncle GW

This was both mine & Will's first time through the Smoky Mountains!

An Undivided Heart

2010-07-11T20:18:00.001-07:00

Ezekiel 11:19 - "I will give them undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh."

I read this verse tonight I was doing the bible study, "No Other Gods" by Kelly Minter, that our women's bible study at church is doing. I found this verse refreshing because it is filled with hope, promise, and redemption. However, I also am finding myself saying "Really God? An undivided heart????" My heart feels far from undivided... This study has been really great, and I have identified a lot of idols that I've been holding on to. It's hard in our culture because I don't have to go burn down the golden calf or asherah poles... No, I have to purge the self-reliance, control, money obsessing, and many other things that I'm sure could match the number of Artemis statues floating around Ephesus, out of my heart.

It never ceases to amaze me, or baffle me, that God created us and allowed us to have freewill. He didn't just make us robots who do, act, and say, whatever He wanted. God gave us unique personalities, passions and desires to develop who we are and who he created us to be. He is gracious, is he not? Obnoxiously so. And I am ever so thankful that his grace and mercies are new every day, hour, second... He delights in my/our journey through these messy times, because they lead us to Him.

Long Time, No Bloggy

2010-06-23T19:32:00.000-07:00

I wish I could come up with more creative titles, but I'm lucky I can spell my name these days... :) Pregnancy and childbirth really messes with your head! It should be interesting when I go back to work. Speaking of which - I'm really cherishing every day I get to spend with Will because I know it's going to be hard going back to work.

Will is great! Motherhood is crazy. I feel like I'm maintaining, but I don't function the greatest with the lack of sleep - which I was aware of beforehand. However, God is good, and provides everything we need each day. I have been very blessed to have a lot of help from parents. They have been awesome, and able to come up and visit us a lot!! :)

Something else I've been soaking up is the time I have gotten to spend in the Word while Will take's his long afternoon nap. Our ladies Bible study has been doing a study by Kelly Minter, "No Other God's." It has really drawn out where my heart has been over the last year, and the scripture we have been reading has been really relevant in life on several levels. It has been a great reality check, and has helped me start to journey back on really focusing on God, and His desire and truth for me.

"...with us is the Lord our God, to help us and to fight our battles." 2 Chronicles 32:8

Labor & Delivery

2010-05-23T18:38:00.000-07:00

William Joseph Kessler was born on April 30, 2010, at 5:39 PM. He weighed 9 lbs. 9 ozs. and measured 20.5 inches!

I think I was having contractions all throughout the night, but just thought my stomach was hurting because I had to go to the bathroom (since the pains went away after I went to the bathroom). However, I woke up at 7:30 AM and was having contractions 5-10 min. apart, so we decided to wait it out until my scheduled doctor appt. at 9:30. The Dr. said it was "go time" and that we could go over to be admitted into the hospital. She did an ultra-sound first because she had a hard time getting Will's heartbeat, and at this point she thought he was going to be about 7.5 lbs.!

Next, we went over, got admitted, and Dr. Puckett came down to break my water around noon. That is when things started getting more painful. I was wrestling around with getting pain meds around 5-6 cm because my nurse had me laying on my side, which was extremely uncomfortable, and hard to breathe... but, then I got up and she gave me a bean bag that I could lay on my stomach on, and things began progressing quickly from there. I felt better, and Will really started moving down. I began pushing, out of instinct, and my nurse didn't want me to yet, but I didn't really feel like I couldn't.

Then I pushed for an hour and half, and Will came - naturally, with a little help from the vacuum! :) I was beginning to think I wouldn't be able to push much longer, and luckily Will came soon after that! It was a crazy experience, and I still really can't comprehend it.

Now, Bo & I are adjusting to parenthood, and sleep deprivation - which I think is harder for me than Bo. However, like in this entire event - God was extremely gracious and faithful, and I wouldn't have been able to get through it without remembering that amidst the pain! Bo was a great coach too!!! I was in such a "zone" during labor that I just knew that his hand was there to hold and squeeze, and his encouraging words kept me going! I pretty much stopped talking once the labor got hard...

So after all that - Praise the Lord for our little chunky monkey!!! He's so sweet.

39 Weeks...

2010-04-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe the end of the road is so near... Bo has been quite antsy the last few days and was hoping the baby would come this week. I have gotten more uncomfortable over the past week so I too am now ready for the baby to come whenever he is ready. :)

Bo & I have really enjoyed this journey, and are even more excited for the next step - actually getting to interact with the baby! I have had some disappointment with unmet expectations of what I thought life would look like being pregnant, but it has also greatly exceeded how amazing I thought this experience would be.

I am thankful for God's faithfulness, provision, and grace with me over these past 39 weeks. :)

Photo Shoot

2010-04-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

It's exhausting being the photographer and the subject, but Bo & I had fun taking our family prego pics! We are so excited to meet Will, but we are enjoying our last days of "freedom" too! I'm not to the point yet where I'm "done" being pregnant. Praise the Lord it's been a pretty good ride after I got through that 1st trimester.

My April 1st Anniversary

2010-04-02T17:47:00.000-07:00

April 1st is a significant day in my life, and not just because I enjoy playing practical jokes on people - especially my boss. It's hard to believe, but 9 years ago (I was 18, yikes!) and I was baptized. Now, I had had a relationship with Jesus for approximately 13-14 years prior to this, and even began really pursuing an intentional relationship with God a year or so prior to this. However, making the decision to be baptized took a lot of thought and consideration. I knew I would be leaving for college in a few short months - I would be on my own. More independent. I knew this would set the precedent for what type's of choices I would make over the next 1-4 years. So I prayed about it, talked about with a couple other friends who decided they were going to be baptized, and we did it together! :) It was a sweet day - a Sunday, rainy (I think), and how appropriate - the earth was being cleansed too! :)

God really took hold of my life at this point in time. I knew that He was always to be most important, and that I wanted to live my life, and make decisions around Him and what He would want. Don't get me wrong... I screwed up a lot after this! But God really did become the central part of my life at this point, and I would never go back. Walking with God is hard, but so sweet, and always worth it. His faithfulness will never cease to amaze me. His grace & mercy will never cease to bring me to my knees. His love is what gives me life. It truly is a "Good Friday!" I fought to be joyous and celebratory today while at work, where it is easy to give way to the bitterness and cynicism.

- A thankful, humble servant

Oat and Almond Breakfast Bars

2010-03-07T12:10:00.001-08:00

I found this magazine I liked when I was in Barnes & Noble one day - Light & Delish. I also just found that you can get all these recipes free online at delish.com... It met the "I should have most of these ingredients in my cupboard" criteria (and they looked healthy)! I've actually made like 3 things out of it already, and have loved them, but here is a quick & easy, do-it-yourself granola recipe.

1/2 c. vegetable oil
1/2 c. honey
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 lg. egg
2 c. old-fashioned oats, uncooked
3/4 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. packed light brown sugar
1/2 c. sliced almonds
1/2 c. toasted wheat germ
1/2 c. raisins
3/4 tsp. salt

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 13" by 9" metal baking pan with nonstick foil (if not using nonstick, lightly grease foil). 2. In 2-cup liquid measuring cup, stir oil, honey, vanilla, and egg until mixed. In large bowl, with fork, mix oats, flour, sugar, almonds, wheat germ, raisins, and salt until combined. With rubber spatula, stir honey mixture into oat mixture until blended; scrape into prepared pan. With wet hand, pat oat mixtutre evenly into pan. 3. Bake 30-35 minutes or until pale golden around edges. Cool Completely in pan on wire rack, about 1 hour. 4. When cool, transfer using foil to cutting board. Cut lengthwise into 4 strips, then cut each strip crosswise into 6 pieces. Store in tightly sealed container at room temperature up to 2 weeks.

Oat and Almond Breakfast Bars

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4 Years of Wedded Bliss!

2010-02-11T16:38:00.000-08:00

Bo & I celebrated our 4 year anniversary with a surprise date, and a trip to Columbus this weekend. Bo picked me up from work on the 4th, took me to Pizza Papalis, and then to see Nemo on Ice!!!! I was truely surprised, and we had a great time.

Some days it's hard to believe we've been married a whopping 4 years, and other days it seems like we've been together forever! Our wedding day was so sweet, and we are so thankful and blessed for what a beautiful day God gave us.

Our 1st kiss! Ever!!

Bo & I singing together, probably during our 1st dance. We like to sing. :)

Check out more Disney on Ice pics on the web!

Baby Bump Update

2010-01-19T16:59:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that Baby Will will be here in just a few months!!! I have really love being pregnant, and Bo & I have had a lot of fun preparing for becoming parents. We have our birthing classes this weekend, so I'm sure I will have some great stories to share from that experience!! haha

On Sunday we went and took a tour of the maternity ward in the hospital, and it was really nice!! There's even a pull-out couch for dad. So we just continue to pray for the baby's development, and a "smooth" delivery.

Human Trafficking

2010-01-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

I keep hearing about this advertisement on K-Love about a non-profit organization that is helping girls are being trafficked in northwest Ohio. I must confess I don't know a lot about this subject, but it has tugged at my heart for a few years, since I saw a Law & Order SVU episode. It's funny how God works... I also soon after discovered an amazing Christian artist, Natalie Grant, who also began wanting to help women in this, because she too saw the Law & Order episode.

So I decided to check out this website, and to begin asking God how I can help and be more aware. If I am not aware, I can't pray... and that's at least a place to start.

If you are interested in learing more too, check out http://thedaughterproject.org/

Psalm 86

2010-01-13T16:13:00.000-08:00

Psalm 86:4-13
Great Is Your Steadfast Love
A Prayer of David.

4Gladden the soul of your servant,
for to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.
5For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving,
abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.
6 Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer;
listen to my plea for grace.
7In the day of my trouble I call upon you,
for you answer me.

8There is none like you among the gods, O Lord,
nor are there any works like yours.
9 All the nations you have made shall come
and worship before you, O Lord,
and shall glorify your name.
10For you are great and do wondrous things;
you alone are God.
11 Teach me your way, O LORD,
that I may walk in your truth;
unite my heart to fear your name.
12I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart,
and I will glorify your name forever.
13 For great is your steadfast love toward me;
you have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.

My prayers from this Psalm - "gladden the heart of your servant" & "teach me your way, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name." I don't exactly fully understand what uniting my heart to fear God's name means, but I know it's something I should strive for. I found this sweet little commentary on verses 8-17.

The psalmist pleads his earnestness, and the mercy of God, as reasons why his prayer should be heard.

Our poverty and wretchedness, when felt, powerfully plead in our behalf at the throne of grace. The best self-preservation is to commit ourselves to God's keeping. I am one whom thou favourest, hast set apart for thyself, and made partaker of sanctifying grace. It is a great encouragement to prayer, to feel that we have received the converting grace of God, have learned to trust in him, and to be his servants. We may expect comfort from God, when we keep up our communion with God.

God's goodness appears in two things, in giving and forgiving. Whatever others do, let us call upon God, and commit our case to him; we shall not seek in vain. (Ps 86:8-17)

Psalm 67

2009-12-28T15:13:00.000-08:00

I love the Psalms. Psalm 23 has always been one of my favorite passages. I have been slowly making my way through the Psalms as I've been trying to make my way through the Old Testament, and I found this sweet, simple prayer in Psalm 67:1, but I'll post the whole Psalm, because it's short, and all of it's great!

To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song.

1May God be gracious to us and bless us
and make his face to shine upon us,
Selah
2that your way may be known on earth,
your saving power among all nations.
3 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you!

4Let the nations be glad and sing for joy,
for you judge the peoples with equity
and guide the nations upon earth.
Selah

5 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you!

6The earth has yielded its increase;
God, our God, shall bless us.
7God shall bless us;
let all the ends of the earth fear him!

FA LA LA LA LA LA.... LA LA LA LA LA

2009-12-22T18:17:00.000-08:00

Shopping. Done! Work. Almost Done! Baking. Never Done! You know what's sweet about the Christmas season? There are millions, or I guess more like, billions, of people rejoicing over Jesus! This week at work we have been listening to The River, the local radio station that play Christmas music 24/7, and it makes me giggle when I think of how many other people are listening to it, and singing or enjoying songs that are celebrating Jesus. It reminded me to pray for all those listening who might not fully understand what they're listening to or why these Christmas songs make their hearts stir. I hope they hear some of those words, and begin to think "oh, that's what I'm singing about?" And the sweet little children who love to sing along, may God plant those seeds deep in their sweet little spirits! Rejoice! Rejoice!

I think I could spend hours reading these verses over and over.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Might God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his kingdom,
to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Baby Will!

2009-12-20T18:36:00.000-08:00

Bo & I had the greatest Christmas present ever! We got to meet our baby boy on the 16th. He's really cute. The nurses were ooing and aahhing over his sweet little cheeks and nose. Perhaps I should stop here, and state that this was only an ultrasound! haha He was moving a lot! His teeny arms and lips were moving up and down. I think he's going to be a talker - like his Dad of course!

Technology is amazing I must say. I always thought this kind of thing would weird me out (and some of the skeletal looking shots did), but for the most part I just stared at the screen in awe. This experience to the Christmas magic of the season to a new level. Will's Grandma's, and Grandpa (Popo?) were there to participate in the fun. It was sweet to see what a blessing it was for them, since this was their very first ultrasound experience also. You can check out pics of our little monkey below. :)

Christmas-time is Here!

2009-12-05T10:51:00.000-08:00

love Christmas! Since we are receiving are first snow of the season I was inspired to express my yuletide joy! :) Plus I thought I should post some pics of Bo's and my holiday festivities thus far. Bo and I always have fun on our day of decorating. We set the mood with some Christmas music, hot cocoa, and goodies of some sort! It was also fun to have our housemate, Stacy, help us decorate this year! The more the merrier!! Now that we actually have our very own home to decorate, Bo is actually out today hanging lights around the house. He is even feeling so adventurous as to try to line the peaks of our house, which are not really easily "accessible." So let's hope and pray that he doesn't fall of the roof. :) (As I sit inside snuggled up on couch, blogging, and watching Barefoot Contessa)

Next, we made our annual trek to Frankenmuth. It was a lot of fun, as my mom & dad, brother & his girlfriend, accompanied us this year! We stayed at the Bavarian Inn Lodge, which was a really fun place to stay, and a recommendation if you have kiddos! Every year we manage to get some crazy pics, so I posted some of those below! I really think my dad missed his calling as a lion tamer! He would have been great! haha

Last but not least... We went to the Christmas tree lighting in downtown BG! It was a fun little festive treat for the community. They also had carriage rides, but I was too pooped to wait in line.

Pumpkin Carving!

2009-10-11T18:00:00.000-07:00

Bo did a great job carving our pumpkin today! I helped for a little bit, but there was only so much carving we could do at the same time. However, I did get to spend some quality time (like an hour) which I haven't done in a really long time, especially since I've been pregnant. I finished the last 22 chapters of Job, and am excited to keep plugging through the Old Testament.

I am excited for the holiday's, and for Bo & I to have trick-or-treaters for the first time this year!! We really are enjoying our new home, and as fun as it is getting our pumpkin ready for Halloween, I am even more excited about decorating for Christmas!!! Yes, I know, it's too early, and Bo has been trying to get me to stop talking about Christmas already, but I can't help it! :)

Baby Kessler's First "Public" Appearance

2009-09-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

Bo & I had our first Dr. appointment yesterday, which featured our first sighting of our baby! :) It was really amazing, and sweet. We had been trying to get pregnant for a little over a year, and are so greatful for this precious gift that God has blessed us with! It was totally worth the wait! God's faithfulness never ceases to amaze me. God truely does provide peace, and I know Bo and I are both so greatful for God's leading and sustenance during that time.

Enjoy the pic of our little peanut!

New Layout, New Member of our Family!

2009-09-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

I can finally blog about it... Bo & I are going to have a baby!!! Yay! The baby should arrive around April 29th-ish, according to WebMD. I don't go to the Dr. for a couple of weeks. We are so excited!!

Home Sweet Home

2009-07-20T17:45:00.001-07:00

Bo & I moved into our first house on Saturday!! I am so humbled and blessed by our family and friends who helped us move! My parents and brother have made numerous trips to BG to help us tear down wallpaper, paint, and hook up appliances - their help has been appreciated beyond words! I watched in awe as the truck parade carried our stuff from Summit to Fairview - it was really a sweet moment. I am continually convinced that God made us needy of other people. Life would be really hard and dull without our family and friends.

Bo & I are so thankful that God has allowed us to be part of such a sweet community.

Top 10 Vacation Moments Thus Far

2009-07-02T07:33:00.000-07:00

1. The Word
2. Sweet hours of prayer
3. Laying on the beach and counting the stars with my hubby
4. Fondue Night
5. The Word
6. Wet flip-flop racing with Bo
7. Game night every night
8. Shopping!
9. The Pool! Especially all the kiddos at the pool - they are hilarious to listen and watch.
10. Did I mention The Word?

Hilton Head '09!

2009-06-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

Vacation has arrived! Bo & I closed on our house on Thursday, and left Friday right after work with my brother, and drove 13 hours to the beach! Good food, good fellowship, relaxation, A LOT of laughter, some good competition, and last but certainly not least, sweet sweet time with My Lord.

I have always loved the ocean. I almost felt overwhelmed as we walked along the shore yesterday. Bo & I spend some time on the beach last night, looking at the moon and stars. We got our own little personal fireworks show from people playing with their 4th of July goodies. Bo & I were reflecting on what we had studied during our quiet times, and the 2 books I dove into, and both of us were just feeling amazed by the God we serve. He really is worth giving our whole lives to. I've really been experiencing God's peace, and know that I can only have true peace through Him.

I don't know what it is about being out in nature, but I meet with God deeply when I am breathing in His creation. God's sweet and tender whispers are as overwhelming as the vastness of the ocean. They take my breath away. I am thankful that God, in all His grace and mercy, not only gives us joy in all things, but woo's our hearts and satisfies our innermost desires.

Wrestling with God - Literally?

2009-06-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

Jacob wrestled with God - literally, physically. Are you kidding me? I have been studying the Bible with 2 amazing women who are reading through Genesis for the first time. We've been amazed at the insestry, deceit, and sin of the Old Testament accounts. Jacob manipulated his way into God's blessing, but God blessed him anways. God's grace and mercy is really obnoxious. His love for His people, truely unconditional. Although God's heart is grieved and saddened when we are disobedient and sin, but he is never taken by surprise and He's never disappointed. God knows we're going to fail, He knew it before "the beginning."

One of the names of God is El Roi (pronounced: El Roy) - The God who sees me. God knows us. God knew Jacob, and how he was going to gain the blessing. So why did God enter into a physical wrestling match with Jacob?? How does that come about? And it lasted to daybreak... God inflicted a supernatural blow to Jacob's hip. It's hard to fathom.

I love that God always gives me new things to think about and presses my belief's.

Late Night Ponderings on Eternity

2009-05-30T21:31:00.000-07:00

It's 12:30 a.m., and that's pretty late in my world! :) I have been wrestling with God lately, and I found some sweet Scripture to ponder to get out of my self-focused rut, and onto the sweet final dance of redemption.

Revelation 22:1-5 is titled "The River of Life," which alone gives me chills, and if that's not enough... the very next heading is "Jesus is Coming!" Yippy! Or more like Hallelujah!!! The nations will be healed, sin will be gone, we will worship God - face to face! Sign me up for my forehead tattoo!! haha :)

Last summer my eyes were opened and my heart deeply broken for those who worship other gods. The reality that people do have a desire to worship something bigger than themselves, yet follow after something other than the God who is real, who answers prayer, and gives life. One day "every knee will bow and tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord," and I want to help people find the King of Kings, who will reign forever, and who's light will illuminate the land for all of eternity.

The River of Life
1Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3 No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. 4 They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.

TGIF!!!!!

2009-05-29T15:04:00.001-07:00

This week has been absolutely crazy at work! We are getting ready to add another companies accounting work to ours, and they are about the same size as our company. We have doubled the size of our accounting department to accomodate, but between training 2 newbies, and trying to stay on top of my work, the days have been flying by! It's one of those things that I love because my adrenaline is pumping all day, which isn't typical for the accounting profession :) haha

Anywho, Bo & I had a lot of fun last night at a party our friends had called "The JASCARS!" Our friends Josh Coy and Amy Seiffert turn 30 within a couple of months of each other, and they threw this formal party for people to submit 5 minute or less films, in hopes of receiving a JASCAR award at the end of the night. Bo & I went to Goodwill on Wednesday to find some formal getup to wear, which was a lot of fun because we were trying on crazy clothes in the middle of the store.

Josh and Amy introducing the videos.

Bo & I outside the Cla-zel.

Me taking pictures of myself in the car on the way home, and almost causing an accident because the flash was so bright! haha

My Man! Isn't he handsome? I love him! :)

See more pics at www.picasaweb.google.com/ErinKessler246

We are Homeowners! (Almost/Kind of)

2009-05-11T17:59:00.000-07:00

Bo & I are in the process of buying a house!!! We are so excited!! We even did some "Big Trash" raiding and got some gems to help fill our new home. God has really worked out all of the details, and given us peace throughout this process. We are still leaning on Him to keep working out the details with the home inspection, loan, and all that fun stuff. It really has been a great process and we are having so much fun planning and dreaming of the things that will happen in our home. I have posted some pics below!

The Conrad Family

2009-05-07T17:05:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know, my maiden name is Conrad. I think we are a pretty flippin sweet family! :) hehe I mean, how can we not be from the pics below.

The Conrad Ladies - My momma, Roxanne & sister, Shauna

The whole fam, minus my brother-in-law.

Pics are Up!

2009-04-27T15:42:00.000-07:00

I finally uploaded my pictures on my Picasa site - http://picasaweb.google.com/ErinKessler246

As depressing as the prolonged winter was getting, I had some great times this Winter. Bo & I did a lot of traveling because his older brother, Scott, and my older sister, Shauna, both turned 30 this year. We had suprise parties in Columbus and Cleveland with a week of each other, but we had a blast celebrating with them!

Bo & I celebrated our 3rd anniversary by spending a weekend in Perrysburg at the Hilton Garden Inn, and dinner at The Melting Pot in Toledo. It's an awesome fondue restaurant! It's a really fun environment to spend a couple of hours (that's right - a couple) enjoying a 4-course meal, and fellowship with my man. Unfortunately, I got a really bad cold and just laid in bed all day Saturday, but at least we had cable tv at the hotel! :) haha

Another fun adventure I had was a "Girls Night Out," which was a Christmas present for my friend Molly, or Mols... :) We had a sweet time catching up, praying for one another, laughing, crying, and encouraging one another. Maybe it will become a little tradition!

Well, after a debrief of winter, I am already loving Spring, and have been getting my butt outside and exercising! I love how God stirs our hearts, and blesses us by bringing color back into the world!

The Sun'll Come Out.....

2009-04-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

at 6 PM tonight, and then probably not again for a few days... blah! I have been finding myself having the same conversations, or introductions, with people "this weather is so crappy; it's so nasty outside," I think those paint the picture enough. So today, I was thinking "it really doesn't make me feel any better to complain, so why don't I start being more positive, appreciative, and thankful for the weather, or whatever the circumstance." My grumbling and complaining does not move me towards Christ, and it doesn't even make me feel better!

Goal for this week: When I roll into work, the post office, the bank, etc. my conversations will be filled with thanksigiving and cheer!

The Buffer Zone

2009-03-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

So, I didn't really watch Seinfeld growing up. I think my family did, or at least my brother, but I don't think I was reallly into it (and I was usually too busy playing sports). Anywho. I am watching an episode and Jerry & Kramer are at the movies. Jerry makes Kramer move over a seat, so there's a space in between them, and it's called the "buffer zone." So I was telling Bo how my best friend Sarah, and I, had a "buffer zone" at the movies when we were little, but big enough to go to movies by ourselves. Our "buffer zone" was a spare seat for a pretend boyfriends! haha Now... why the boyfriends couldn't sit on the outsides I don't know, but we needed a sit in between.

Good Times, Great People

2009-01-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

I hosted my first Tastefully Simple party today, and it turned out great! There was a perfect number of people to fit in our quaint living/dining room area, lots of yummy food to pass, and old friends amongst new. It truely was a splendid time. Although it is funny when your "world's collide." Bo & I always talk about that about weddings. It's like you want everyone to meet everyone, and tell them all about what you love about "these people," and your history with them. Now, after the fact, I should have just done an introduction for everyone, and shared what I love about them! :) Maybe next time! Or maybe I'll blog it and then they all can read it! Ha!

Christmas Present, Future, and Past

2009-01-03T18:39:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas, and another year has come and passed. I love Christmas. I love the tree's, the lights, the excitement of presents - giving & getting. Now it is all over, but the fun is still lingering. I got a Wii for my birthday, and some games for Christmas (Guitar Hero World Tour & Wii Fit), which has been keeping Bo & I quite entertained during the time off we have had for the holidays. God bless GreenLine (where I work)! They have us Thursday & Friday of the last 2 weeks off, and it has been fabulous. It was great to be able to spend more time at home over Christmas, and Bo & I have had a lot of fun hanging out over my little New Year's break. We have seen 2 movies - The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons, and Marley & Me. Both are good, but Mom - you can't watch Marley and Me! I have spent hours at Panera the last few days reading, and chatting with my husband. I had fun taking random pictures of Bo & I in the car as we were shopping around on Friday - pictures can be found at http://picasaweb.google.com/ErinKessler246

So, I thought I would blog about my Christmas revelation, instead of putting off & never getting around to it. One Sunday morning while I was praying with some others before our church service started, I felt led to pray for what was the upcoming holiday season. I prayed that instead of parents trying to lure their children into "being a good girl or boy" to please Santa, what if children learned about the amazing gift of grace and forgiveness that Jesus bore into the world. I am not criticizing or saying it's wrong to use some seasonal motivation for the childrens, because I am not a parent and will probably do the same thing! :) This was just something that clicked in my heart this season.

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow

2008-11-16T16:25:00.000-08:00

That's right, we just had our first large-flake snow of the year! It even stuck to the ground a little, and to the cars a lot! ha! As much as I don't enjoy being cold, I do like snow. There is just a certain magic, if you will, that snow ignites your childlikeness. I think I have a lot of fun childhood memories from sledding, to fort building, to snow fights, and even shoveling the drive way. All were done with family members and/or friends (except the one major snow fort I built by myself).

Although, I do recall one time when my sister and I, along with 2 of our friends, went sledding and it was not so enjoyable. We walked through a field (maybe a 1/4 of a mile) to a woods that some family friends owned, where there were big hills to sled down. It was snowing pretty bad, and neither my friend or myself wanted to walk home, and I remember my sister and her friend pulling us home on the sled through the field. I thought we would never get home, the snow was stinging my face...

But then there were all those fun times of having snow ball fights, and building snowmen! I also remember one year I thought I could ice skate on my rollerblades! There were 2 spots in the front of our yard, by the road, where the water would sit & freeze. So one year I thought it would try ice skating on it in my rollerblades - yeah, that didn't work out to well! :)

I must say, I am getting in the "Christmas spirit" a little earlier than usual this year. I think it's because Bo & I are actually going to have a bigger Christmas tree in our new apartment!! Hot chocolate, and coookie baking - it doesn't get much better! :) Yumm!

History In the Making

2008-11-04T18:20:00.000-08:00

What a day! I will be glad when the election is over because I'm sick of the negative ads - seriously! I'm not really ecstatic about either candidate, is anyone? But McCain/Palin was my choice. My main issue this election season was in regards to the war. I just couldn't buy Obama as Commander in Chief.

As I type, a special report came on saying Obama is projected to win Ohio. Bummer! With Ohio & Pennsylvania, I think that's the ballgame. I guess we will have to see if Obama can step up to the plate. I think there are unrealistic expectations for him, because people are desparate for change.

30% Republican voter turnout??? C'mon people, highly disappointing.

Well, here's one for the history books?

Closing of Summer

2008-09-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

Summer is rapidly coming to a close. Bo and I have had so much transition lately, but it has been a fun ride! We moved into a townhouse, are attending a different church, and just bought a car! This has been one of the most relaxing summer's Bo & I have had together, and I think it sunk my motivation in getting ready for campus activities. However, after reconnecting with the gals I "coach," and our LifeGroup, it is great!

I recently read through Romans, and Chapter 12 (see pasted below) is amazing. First, verses 9-21 stuck out to me. I thought they were great, and began reading over them often. I was going to share them at Lifegroup one night when we were speaking about desires for what our LifeGroup would be. Funny thing, Bo went first, and shared 12:3-8. So then I thought those verses were really great too. And then I decided to keep looking back, and I found that the whole chapter is really awesome! :) I actually really enjoyed reading through all of Romans. Anyways, the 2 thinks that stuck out to me the most (the first time I read it). Verse 9- Let love be genuine (ESV) & verse 10 - Outdo one another in showing honor. What a testament to the body of Christ if that was lived out those verses. Those are 2 things I want God to change in me. I want my love for people, life, everything - to be genuine. And I want to show everyone honor - not just the people I choose. Each person I encounter is a creation of God's, and I want to cherish it. Not yell at them when they cut me off. Not curse them when they annoy me, or do not do what I want them to do. But to value them always (which I know is impossible because flesh gets in the way). But let me love my neighbor (and husband, family, friends, coworkers, strangers, etc.) as myself - and may it be genuine!

Romans 12 (ESV)
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgement, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in porportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

Let love be genuine. Abhor what is eveil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." To the contrary, "if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Seriously - Woah! It's good huh? Tall order, but I want to gorge! :)

The Realness of God

2008-07-24T19:10:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have those moments where you feel like the reality of God, and eternity, are so close that it makes your head hurt? That's how I am feeling. Living for God, allowing His Spirit to guide me, lead me, empower me - is living in reality. God is reality. Eternity is reality.

New Purchases!

2008-07-22T17:24:00.000-07:00

We bought our first washer & dryer! Bo & I had a lot of fun renting the home depot pick-up truck & going to Perrysburg to pick them up! We are also looking for a new car, and are moving into a new apartment. So it's a fun time. We went around and looked at all the different places in BG, since I really don't know a whole lot about cars & how much they cost.

Blogging!

2008-07-15T09:09:00.000-07:00

So... I created a blog. We'll see how long it lasts :) No, I thought it would be fun to share my pictures, poetry, thoughts, etc. with people. I like this site because you don't have to be a member to look at & comment on other people's, so I can share with my family!