Aching Hearts Rejoice!

As we approach Valentine's Day and all it's meaning--NOT the commercialized meaning but the "heart" of the matter, I am saddened by the past year of losses here on earth. Still missing Todd's mom and have moments of utter despair! My mind starts thinking of all she is missing with our girls now and what she will miss in the future--high school graduations, college graduations, weddings, babies--all of lives experiences that God has planned for our girls. If I dwell here too long--My heart can become bitter and hardened--questioning God. It is OK to be saddened by our loss--but God does not want me to go down that road of despair. His words remind me of what I need to do everyday--

"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18.

Rejoicing and thanking my Lord for Pat and for all the wonderful memories she gave my girls while she was on this earth is my focus. For I know she is rejoicing with Jesus now and that my girls' future are with Him. Earthly accomplishments are terrific..but heavenly crowns await us all after our journey here is done.

I Rejoice...Rejoice...Rejoice with my aching heart that only JESUS can make whole!

Cheer News

After a bitter cold weekend in Indy last month (Megan and McKensie's teams did awesome!). We now head to Atlanta for hopefully warmer weather. This is Nationals! Cheerleaders, parents and coaches love heading south for this competition. Not only is it a great competition with terrific cheer teams--the excitement is contagious! The memories that we are making together will be treasured for a lifetime!

The sport of Cheerleading has meant so much to our family. Yes it's a sport! But, our journey in this sport has brought us dear friends, laughter and just plain joy in seeing our girls' accomplish such terrific skills! Not just physical skills--although their tumbling skills amaze me!! But life skills--taking what they have learned in this environment and carrying it over to studies, friendships and family life.

God has used this sport (and continues to do so) to teach us what it means to truly show our Godly character, patience and love for others. How to persevere in overcoming fears and obstacles and how to be a true friend!

As a family--we hope and pray that we are showing the love and heart of Jesus daily--no matter where we are!

On the cheer mat, at a competition, at school or work--going about our life's journey. I know that I miss the mark sometimes--but I get up and move forward in this area and pray for Jesus to go before me--for surely I will mess up again! Life bring us to our knees--which is where we want to be if we truly want to show the heart of Jesus to others. You never know in your encounters who has an aching heart that needs to be filled with Jesus so that they too can Rejoice in Him.

I Rejoice...Rejoice...Rejoice with my aching heart that only JESUS can make whole!

Blessings & Cheers!

Romans 12:2

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable perfect will of God."