tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72029454286486737412024-02-21T20:58:38.524-08:00beloved ministries by heidi mckeeMy way of spilling everything that is boiling out of me from a Creator that loves me more than I can imagine!Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-86384775307545053102016-05-26T19:48:00.002-07:002016-05-26T19:48:27.648-07:00No Fear in Love<br />
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Two things that are spoke of most in the Bible is Love and Fear. They are completely opposite to one another yet we wrestle with these the most.</div>
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Fear. </div>
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That four letter word that can crush a dream, hinder a relationship or stop you dead in your tracks. So frustrating, yet we all have something we fear. I know for me I tend to pretend I do not have fear, but as soon as I start making excuses about something, I realize, it's that comfortable fear once again.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One of my favorite quotes comes from
“philosopher” Will Smith and is found in his movie <i><u>After Earth.</u> </i>In this film
Smith is teaching his son a very important ideal that will help him overcome
any kind of obstacle. He says <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://youtu.be/jgjibFrh0CE"><span style="font-family: Times;">If we are going to survive this, you need to remember, fear is not real. It is a product of the thoughts you create. Now do not misunderstand me; danger is very real. But fear ris a choice.</span></a><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Danger is real, but fear is a choice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">Wonder why it's so comfortable to choose fear every.single.time?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times;">Love.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ah, something we all desire in the depths of our soul; to be
loved. Loved in a way that makes you want to grit your teeth, or listen to
Journey’s “don’t stop believing” all day long. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What a beautiful feeling to be
loved!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But what in the world does that mean?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Our English language sells us short on great verbiage. We
have the same word for: the affection of a hot dog and a Mother toward her
child; </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">the same word describing the affection of a coworker and a passionate
teenaged relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Love is so hard to define.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In my opinion (if you’re asking) I think the word LOVE is
the most over used word, yet the most desired one in our dialectal. Hearing the
words “I love you” can melt a heart, turn a rebellion, start a fight or cause a
tear. Amazing how powerful this –Love- is. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">FEAR and LOVE</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">So different yet so much the same.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Both a choice.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Both a passion.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Both stubborn.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">One is desired. One is despised.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">What to do?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">John writes exclaiming how you cannot have both (fully) at the same time. In 1 John 4:18 he writes:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCwM_aS3B6W0MuKYE8P_oMXaECEN6Q-3CtTlVfDZWgGo8ckh6zLByyUU6AZJ2LiOZJz57VFxks8MRfjwRyyxSbbSooKJwQSRlcPgKyLC_f7J5nZc4hwrpGEWGHwBwceJSk5TYtlwl22A/s1600/no-fear-in-love-1-john-4-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpCwM_aS3B6W0MuKYE8P_oMXaECEN6Q-3CtTlVfDZWgGo8ckh6zLByyUU6AZJ2LiOZJz57VFxks8MRfjwRyyxSbbSooKJwQSRlcPgKyLC_f7J5nZc4hwrpGEWGHwBwceJSk5TYtlwl22A/s640/no-fear-in-love-1-john-4-18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The two are merged. Real love will get rid of fear. I think I know why.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When you are in a relationship that is 100% unconditional and NOTHING you say or do will take away that love, you have an indescribable security.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You may have a fear of failing so you don't try. But if you had a confidence that the someone that loves you will love you if you fail or not, that nullifies fear. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When you are living life in love (real kind of love) then there is no room for fear!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The love that this scripture is talking about is God 's love. The man who created the heavens, the earth, the sun, moon and stars is crazy in love with you! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He would do anything to be with you! He has done everything to be with you! </div>
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<br /></div>
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It comes down to a choice. </div>
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He loves you so much that, although He is your creator, He gave YOU the choice to love Him.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So, beloved, what do you choose? To live in Fear or to live in His Love?</div>
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<!--EndFragment--></div>
Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-57671372669390929482016-05-22T13:53:00.001-07:002016-05-22T13:53:30.100-07:00Coloring God's Word Life is busy. Crazy busy. Thank God for iCal so we can sync sports, Bible study, school stuff, church activities, singing stuff, and reminders when Library books are due.<br />
<br />
We are THE busiest women who have ever walked the planet. Not necessarily milking the cows or churning the butter- but the overload of INFORMATION. Our BRAINS are on the go 100% of the time. Even when we lay down the wheels are spinning over the current grocery list, pinterest ideas and political upheaval. It's absolutely exhausting.<br />
<br />
And what about spending time with God?<br />
<br />
As ultimate sports mom, writer, business owner, wife, sister, daughter, church member--I find it almost impossible to spend quality time with God! (Anyone else?) <br />
<br />
Really?! The ONE thing I need the most gets pushed to the back burner. Gah!<br />
<br />
When I did<i> make the time to</i> dive in His Word I found myself refreshed, renewed and fueled to face the massive information overload! BUT- I'm not a scholar- sit and study is not my thing....<br />
<br />
BUT COLORING IS!<br />
<br />
I started writing out God's Word that pierced my heart and washed over my soul. I started coloring those words and realized that when I did --I found a small peace! I couldn't think of crazy schedules, couldn't worry about finances or struggle with what I'm not.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WWvzAVPRSnedOGCqGjA1Md5GrWFAKogcmetm_5WkU91E3onQ-4JTBU_3xFJxPqAqojoJq42Rfza2m6epFWPu1RaN1hLRpbx3UW9qtklEKOJz8NvLqRv_-MPGYo59l3_ld3EVyoYGS2w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-05-22+at+3.12.03+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WWvzAVPRSnedOGCqGjA1Md5GrWFAKogcmetm_5WkU91E3onQ-4JTBU_3xFJxPqAqojoJq42Rfza2m6epFWPu1RaN1hLRpbx3UW9qtklEKOJz8NvLqRv_-MPGYo59l3_ld3EVyoYGS2w/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-05-22+at+3.12.03+PM.png" width="488" /></a>Sitting still is Tough! But God tells us to! "<i>BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD! I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in all the earth</i>" Psalm 46:10 I think God is wanting us to TURN OFF the noise and focus on Him! What better way to BE STILL than getting a sharp colored pencil and stay in the lines!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhk-Af2KamXgo3HDZtKuJ7F4AW_B8HY1Caf_h8ryPla5oVgYXr9eVcbA9sHotggJYD69aigjexC2MFUHH42abvpmBzya80Y2b7dxBcK7dQRMZ_WlwtsFaPyC5QfmcaAE_F_ZWOo6U79Kg/s1600/abba+father.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhk-Af2KamXgo3HDZtKuJ7F4AW_B8HY1Caf_h8ryPla5oVgYXr9eVcbA9sHotggJYD69aigjexC2MFUHH42abvpmBzya80Y2b7dxBcK7dQRMZ_WlwtsFaPyC5QfmcaAE_F_ZWOo6U79Kg/s640/abba+father.JPG" width="480" /></a>"<i>and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him." </i>Romans 8:17</div>
It's amazing! We are HIS Heirs! He is our Father- our ABBA DADDY! Of course He wants us to spend time with Him! What is holding you back from reading His word? He has something to tell you-- you are His Child<br />
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\Wonder where to start? How about the beginning!<br />
Break down the days of Creation in Genesis 1. Let your creative juices flow and WHO cares if it looks like a kindergartener did it! You will be soaking in GOD's Word!<br />
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So while I doodled through GOD's WORD I decided to compile some of my favorites together so YOU can too color God's Word! Fun thing about this book is that the proceeds go to my sister's adoption! <a href="http://grinnlife.blogspot.com/">grinnlife.blogspot.com</a> Feel free to buy from the link below, from amazon or from me! AND SPEND TIME COLORING GOD'S Word! <a href="https://www.createspace.com/6161744" style="text-align: center;">Order here</a><br />
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Let me end by saying this-- no matter if you don't color, doodle, journal or whatever--- GOD is still with you! He will ALWAYS be with you. In fact He will never leave you or forsake you! It's a promise Beloved, He loves you- unconditionally. Yes, He wants to spend intimate, undivided time with you, but KNOWS you and FORGIVES you when you don't! He is here- right now waiting! My prayer is that you <i>make the time</i> to open His Words to you! It's worth it!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Cnu8DcjStkr6ZoKUySAMr-sC7_6RgnMwAYpIoeCjU0r458w-IPWbQtngUOGbCC9-LfwBc3tbXBAPnw3WCZxON0f8Z5BLg6-fV74WUQQ0YjNClMOvWc09ZA-Pbg5T1XOCbpJpzoneRQs/s1600/I+will+not+leave+you.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Cnu8DcjStkr6ZoKUySAMr-sC7_6RgnMwAYpIoeCjU0r458w-IPWbQtngUOGbCC9-LfwBc3tbXBAPnw3WCZxON0f8Z5BLg6-fV74WUQQ0YjNClMOvWc09ZA-Pbg5T1XOCbpJpzoneRQs/s640/I+will+not+leave+you.JPG" width="520" /></a><br />
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<br />Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-23227302658545141442016-05-17T07:38:00.001-07:002016-05-17T07:38:52.440-07:00-The Other Woman--As a young lady I dreamt of the day I would be a bride. The handsome young prince standing at the end of the isle waiting to sweep me in his arms and live happily ever after.<br />
<br />
Thanks to Disney, I'm sure most little girls have that dream.<br />
<br />
Only thing is, we stop there. The wedding is only the first square of an entire toilet paper roll. No matter how that fancy goes, you are MARRIED----Stuck by a holy covenant to ONE person. <br />
<br />
We spent more time picking flowers and tasting cake then we did discussing our parenting philosophy or even how many kids we want to have! The fantasy of the blissful day completely over shadowed a life long partnership that we probably should have been investigating.<br />
<br />
I am blessed to say I had an amazing wedding day. Like a storybook princess I got my prince....and likewise we are living happily ever after. Here's why: <br />
<br />
The other woman.<br />
<br />
This other woman loved my prince more than I did. She knew him more than he knew himself. She wanted his happiness more than she wanted her own needs being met. She held her opinions to herself, watched as I came in and stole him from her and never said a word against me.<br />
<br />
Her concern was for HIS heart only and encouraged him to follow it as --hers was breaking.<br />
<br />
My Mother in Law is a beautiful soul, and here is how I know.<br />
<br />
I will one day have a Daughter in love. I will one day push my little bird out of the nest to watch another swoop him up and care for him. (Oh geez...here I go again) I will one day not be "number one woman" in his life....<br />
<br />
But that's ok.<br />
<br />
My mother in law gave me the biggest gift I could ever receive, and yet it has taken me nearly 17 years to realize. And one day I will have the opportunity to give that gift.<br />
<br />
She gave me the gift of a loving husband.<br />
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<br />
She taught my man how to serve; how to unconditionally love, how to bend to his strong-willed wife and she gave me-- him.<br />
<br />
I never said thank you.<br />
<br />
As she lies in a hospital bed fighting for her life, regrets swell over me. Why did I think there was competition? Why would I ever be concerned that we have Christmas at her house!? Why didn't I see so much earlier what a sacrificial gift she had given me.<br />
<br />
And why didn't I thank her?<br />
<br />
My husband is a beautiful man and I pray one day my son can be half that! He has taught me true integrity, faithfulness, and legit kindness. I blame the other woman. (thank God for her!)<br />
<br />
So as a tribute to that other woman, I strive to be the best "other woman" to my son's wife. <br />
<br />
Golly Heidi, he's only 14! I know I know, but my desire for him to be cherished, godly, full of joy, and on fire for Jesus trumps his age! Even now (and for several years) I have prayed for her. I have prayed God protect her, draw her near to Him, guide her and prepare her to love my son more than I can (Truly a tall order).<br />
<br />
So for all the other women out there--Thank you! <br />
<br />
Thank you for taking the sideline for the benefit of your son! Thank you for loving him before we even knew him. AND thank you for building up a man that will fill the hole in our hearts!<br />
<br />
Thank you,<br />
<br />
The other 'other' woman :)<br />
<br />Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-24015224080416001732016-04-07T14:48:00.001-07:002016-04-07T14:48:08.199-07:00Love Language<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-outline-level: 1;">
Love Language (a selection from <i>Passionate Life</i> coming fall 2017!</div>
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In January 2013 my sister became a mom for the first time to
three amazing teenagers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>just happen to be from Ukraine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a two-year spiritual, emotional, and
financial battle to legally call them their own, I decided to board a plane and
fly across the ocean to see them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
sister and brother-in-law were serving as missionaries when God finally made
them parents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course Auntie Heidi had
to meet them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although they were going
to come to America just 2 short months, I wanted to meet them in their culture,
with their language and food and all the weird things I will come to love about
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If my sister birthed them, of
course I would be in the hospital room, so why not meet them in their origin of
the birth of a new family.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My flight got in really late, and my niece and two nephews
were not there to greet me at the airport (bummer).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My sister had waited 13 years for these
babies, she was going to start them on great sleeping schedule, although they
were 14, 15 and 16 years of age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we
got to their house, she told me I could go upstairs and hug them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The minute I opened the bedroom door this
angel sat straight up and even in the dark I could see her perfectly-white
giant smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>IT WAS IMMEDIATE LOVE.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot describe it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My heart literally leapt out of my chest and
I knew I was the aunt that would cry with her when that boy breaks her heart,
that will eat chocolate and watch movies, that will take her shopping and buy
her anything she wanted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
indescribable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She wrapped her arms
around me and said in a very thick Russian accent “Good Morning”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(she meant Good Night and I was
smitten).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that exact scenario
happened twice more with my nephews.<o:p></o:p></div>
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My sister and brother-in-law had been on a team to translate
the Bible in the Tat tar language.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tatars are a people group living among the Ukrainians.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This group of people have always been
ostracized, a group less then others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are the outcast and overlooked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My sister has always had a heart for this kind of a people so it was no
surprised when she was called to translate God’s Word for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While serving, she also worked at an
orphanage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is where she had met
Dima and Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She volunteered in
their first grade class, taking them on field trips, providing gifts,
educational material, workshops, and spiritually pouring into these 8-9 year
old institutionalized kids without parents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She fell in love with each and every kid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dima was the golden child; the bright one,
the favored one, the teacher’s pet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Victor was not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was picked on,
beat up, and a little awkward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My sister
loved each and every one, but these two had a special place in her heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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After years of battling infertility I asked why she would
not just adopt. Like go to the orphanage and pick a kid and come home and live
Happy Ever After. (so naive)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her words
exactly and a pierce right to my heart-- “How do I pick?!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How unfair!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But I knew she wanted to be a real mommy to these kids. She was weary
and tired of leaving each day to not know what happens at night, when they were
sick, not be taken care of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her heart was
longing but how in the world could she chose?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After much prayer, and one after another child got adopted from that
class (Which is completely a miracle in itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Kids in that “special” institution just don’t get adopted, especially
almost an entire class)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God was parting
the waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And guess who was standing
right there in the middle:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dima and
Victor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ones she was meant to
have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Three years later I still cry
tears of joy.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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During the entire process of major ups and downs, victories
and losses-(which I highly recommend you read her blog- she should be writing
the book not me!)** (In fact, please read her blog-<a href="http://grinnlife.blogspot.com/">grinnlife.blogspot.com</a>) She and Matt found that Victor and Dima had sisters and
brothers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ukrainian law, at that time, stated
that you have to adopt the entire sibling groups<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So they opened the paper work to accept not
just two kids, but five!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Through the
investigation process they found one brother was too old, one sister was
already with a foster family some how (pray for her) and then there was
Tanya.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our bright-eyed-giant-smiled-curly-red-headed
precious Tanya!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Apparently Tanya was exactly a little orphan-Annie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was confident, in charge, and mothered
everyone in that orphanage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She did not
need a family and she was apprehensive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some how though, my sister wooed her into our family and we cannot
imagine life without her.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The first morning I really got to see them in the light
Tammy let me do a devotion and she translated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I so badly wanted to talk and ask questions and get to know my new
family but the language barrier was discouraging.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I tried to act out everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each evening that week I would lie in bed
with Tanya and read children stories in English and try to act out the story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She would laugh until she fell out of the
bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We fell in love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With hardly any words exchanged she, Victor,
Dima and I bonded. I WAS THEIR AUNT HEIDI!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And we didn’t have to say a word—we all just knew it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Morning I ever saw them!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I hear all the time how hard it is to believe because they
can’t ‘hear’ God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They talk and talk but
receive no response.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The week I met my
new family we shared maybe 3-4 real-understandable words, but it did not deter
love from growing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We couldn’t understand
one another and it didn’t stop a bond from cultivating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can just imagine God jumping around trying
to explain His love in a way we will hear it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He is hugging, laughing, creating, and totally in love with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is possible friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can feel His Love without ‘hearing His
voice’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq71ihyphenhyphendVPic60rvhLO-xLdvAVN5HOghkMTjOJuFXI9DwwvK-9ay68aVMpNPgSNXpxRDlwnE3OK1gVwCO_YQ_ZT44D9TbjD4UUSvIuyNzlyhCcLSRpEgUUn72dtwjLCeC95lWzzXL6BGk/s1600/Gotch+day+for+real.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq71ihyphenhyphendVPic60rvhLO-xLdvAVN5HOghkMTjOJuFXI9DwwvK-9ay68aVMpNPgSNXpxRDlwnE3OK1gVwCO_YQ_ZT44D9TbjD4UUSvIuyNzlyhCcLSRpEgUUn72dtwjLCeC95lWzzXL6BGk/s320/Gotch+day+for+real.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gotcha day! They were a family! From left to right: Victor, Matt, Tammy, Tanya, and Dima</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I am just the Aunt and 100% into my niece and nephews.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Imagine being their parents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They went through hell to get them, and will
do it again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact they are doing it
again! (true saints ya’ll)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Same with our
Heavenly Father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He went through HELL to
bring us home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is holy and perfect
and we are not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That mere fact separates
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There had to be something to bridge
the gap, something to overcome the language barrier and he provided it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is so smitten in love with you, He
demonstrated it through a cruel death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just like me trying to act out Three Pigs with my niece- He acted out
love by covering our un-holiness so we can be adopted into his family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Omy word that is Love and it is YOU He
loves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you see it beloved?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knows every freckle, thought, white lie,
stupid joke and He is still totally and utterly and completely in love with
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enough to die to be with you! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibg_bFODgofxmIMO4Rv_ii315ro1onDQmo_7a8DgYopxkDTwu6R56Zho4jOJA3KK7A8h39uzuIGd6voMetpIMshfHJLNciEutQ9TlLLw21P_qViXClkSOVAsJ4o6N1QGXr9tEIiVC2tY0/s1600/grinn+kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibg_bFODgofxmIMO4Rv_ii315ro1onDQmo_7a8DgYopxkDTwu6R56Zho4jOJA3KK7A8h39uzuIGd6voMetpIMshfHJLNciEutQ9TlLLw21P_qViXClkSOVAsJ4o6N1QGXr9tEIiVC2tY0/s320/grinn+kids.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dima, Tanya, Victor</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtKyT4nQW_IDh_O-BV2ojsmFK5sxpDu8zYyXSw-Hr_Zlgga9y20XNFz6jl9hELZCztvUvovHRrfsy82YCA6wKDTnaLnRwpWRJUuWgCAuG_srQC68GB62WAhxLF46znqLuBo6sZ8VgsDeo/s1600/tanya+and+heidi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtKyT4nQW_IDh_O-BV2ojsmFK5sxpDu8zYyXSw-Hr_Zlgga9y20XNFz6jl9hELZCztvUvovHRrfsy82YCA6wKDTnaLnRwpWRJUuWgCAuG_srQC68GB62WAhxLF46znqLuBo6sZ8VgsDeo/s1600/tanya+and+heidi1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tanya and Me (Photo bomb with Grand Parents!)</td></tr>
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Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-20792226377621927502016-02-07T08:57:00.001-08:002016-02-07T08:57:12.427-08:00Being Real Real<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Being Real</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I’ve always been a competitive person. Not sure if it’s
learned or taught, but in any and all activities, I want to be at the top. I
want to win. I want the prize. The first big fight Marty and I had was over an
UNO game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As he laid down his second to
last card - I yelled “UNO” before he could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s when it hit the fan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You
have to give me a chance” was his plea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No I don’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes Passion and
Competitiveness is NOT a good combination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After 16 years, I’m not sure we’ve ever settled that argument, but we
have learned to never play against one another again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Lesson here loved ones, life is too
short-<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are on the same team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But please let your sweet competitive loved
one win gracefully and don’t be a sore looser).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Being in sales, a bloodthirsty spirit to be the top will
help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only did I want that big fat
commission, the recognition was the kicker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In Chris Woodward’s book <u>LEADERSHIP REVOLUTION</u> he states there
are three levels to leading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First level
is Money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That gets you in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Leaders see the financial benefit and will go
for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If a leader stays at this level,
he’ll get burned eventually.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second
tier of leadership is recognition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
is stronger than the pull of money. And I believe that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For so long I was a self-hater and when I started
to hear good things about myself through my successful sales, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it became a drug.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I needed more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved seeing my name on the top, I loved
hearing my name called out, I loved the accolades, the titles, the
photo-shopped pictures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last level
that will keep a leader going according to Woodward is-- Life Destiny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When a leader gets to this level- money,
accolades etc., mean nothing unless you are MAKING a difference; when you are
doing what you were put on earth to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(I finally feel like I’ve arrived here- but it was a humbling journey.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I was stuck in level two for a long time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I chased the next incentive, sometimes at all
costs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I put family, church, and self on
the back burner to get to that next promotion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s exhausting! I would arrive and was never satisfied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would work my tail off to sometimes fall
short and be blinded of the benefits of what I had accomplished. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being at the top was the only motivator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, it was all about me, and how I
would feel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes the rewards were
amazing and I relished in them; other times I would brush it aside to move to
the next.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not worth it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can see how people stuck in this cycle
become a workaholic. It’s never ending, and much is never enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although I was at the top of my game, I needed
the next incentive to give me the rush.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When you are using pride and acknowledgment as a leading
cause to do your job, God will not honor it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In fact, a Bible verse I learned as a tot was “Pride comes before the
fall”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yes, my friends, it
does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the top of my game, top in the
company, only 22 out of 100,000 plus women I had arrived.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although my team, my family, my ‘followers’
wanted to be where I was I knew the true motivation was not going to
sustain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>AND then it happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Company structure change and I had to demote
myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had 18 months to hit certain
numbers, which would be possible- but would take me working 24/7, ignoring my
family, and throwing myself into my work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>God and I came face to face, and using my mentor- He spoke right to my
soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Through her He said; “Heidi, if
you are trying to stay at the top because of your pride, then God will never
ever bless your business.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ouch- how
about a slap in the face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Embarrassment, Shame, fear, doubt; in my mind it would’ve
been easier to be hit by a bus or struck by some ebola plague.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had to face the people I have trained, poured
into, encourage and tell them I am a failure, it’s harder than you think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh how I’d like to be anywhere else.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Remember Jesus talking to the rich young ruler.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ruler truly loved Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He said so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He even asked how he could serve and love Jesus more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus knew the ruler was proud, He knew the
ruler enjoyed the tributes, the honors, the position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When asked to go sell all that he owned and
humbly follow, the rich young ruler was unable to lay his pride down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know exactly how he felt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He could see the headlines “Rich Young Ruler
Loses Everything to Follow Homeless Guy.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He had a reputation and it was more important than his relationship with
Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Let me caution you reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am a sinner and I struggle daily, ok-minutely- with my arrogance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know for a fact I put on an air so that
others will look and think “I want to be like Heidi”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I struggle BUT I have learned that people in
my life have responded and have come to life more when I am vulnerable, broken
and not at the top of my game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can
relate and want to be exposed too so they do not have to keep chasing the next
carrot dangling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s true, beloved,
raw-real-truth is utterly more attractive than “I’ve got it all” Façade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Get with a close friend and share your heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God is asking you to lay it down so He can
use you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not saying it won’t hurt, it
will, but it is entirely and downright worth it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1vwVhhQcnzSCd_w0JE67vQqt1jh2_4aNUn0qPfdjaj7rWT8w33PcHccKtwKReniomMEtKZ-A-BjLD-H-0fGdEtfRn-Chux7Q9HkFN964C2z01mbgnoYYK3_On3F49hqUsOv_83rsbDA/s1600/linda+and+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1vwVhhQcnzSCd_w0JE67vQqt1jh2_4aNUn0qPfdjaj7rWT8w33PcHccKtwKReniomMEtKZ-A-BjLD-H-0fGdEtfRn-Chux7Q9HkFN964C2z01mbgnoYYK3_On3F49hqUsOv_83rsbDA/s320/linda+and+me.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Beautiful Friend Linda</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I recently visited a good friend in the hospital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Linda is battling chrones, and this past year
has knocked her down quite a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She
has fought for her life and is enduring constant pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Linda is a diva.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Adorably dressed in the newest and latest
fashion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has cute nails, perfectly
matched jewelry, and a smile that will warm your soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lying in a hospital bed in a paper thin gown
can take away from your trendiness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One
thing I noticed with Linda, I didn’t even notice!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As she shared with me her struggles, all I
saw was beauty!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t until I wanted
to take a selfie of us is when she mentioned how ugly she must look!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although I did notice the horrific tube
coming out of her nose, I did not notice!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was completely and utterly beautiful to me, because I knew her
heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took the selfie, and because
she is not vain, she posted it on social media!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That is how I want to be!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not
worry about the outside- knowing my inside is pretty enough.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-55645858655194568962015-12-11T05:00:00.000-08:002015-12-11T05:02:04.098-08:00Purpose (exerp) from my Book!<div class="MsoNormal">
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My mom is a saint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No
clue how she has not one gray hair in her head.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Raising me must have caused ulcers, migraines, prayer vigils etc.,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the time I was 5 years old I had already
been ran over by a car, had massive surgery that left me in a cast for 12
months, and totaled a pick up truck with just me and my baby sister in it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I were her, I’d be wanting a trade
in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But she never did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She always kept an even pace that was
consistent and purposeful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>So
you want to hear about the truck being totaled?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Of course you do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember I told
you my dad was an oil roughneck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That
meant he worked on oilrigs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> (and still does at age 65) </span>Sometimes
all night and all day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were living in
Vernal, Utah at that time, when my dad had some time off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being the kind of man he was, time off meant
“Let’s go get some work done”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that
is what he did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He, my mom, my baby
sister (2 yrs.) and myself all went up into the mountains to do some firewood
chopping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess you can just go up in
the woods, cut down trees, and go burn them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span> </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 31.5pt;">
When the chainsaw started up, my wise mom put us in the cab of the
pick-up all safe and sound. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unbeknownst
to her, I knocked the gear-shift into neutral. ("knocked being a key word- it may have been on purpose).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She noticed the truck starting to roll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Panicking, she grabbed the tailgate to stop
us rolling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her heels dug into the
ground and she immediately realized she was not going to stop the roll.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you imagine, knowing your babies are in a
‘run away” pick up truck and there is ABSOLUTELY nothing you can do about
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She screamed at my dad and he jumped
to the driver’s side door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course it
was locked. That’s what passionate little girls do when they are scared.
‘Heidi, open the door” he hollered as he was jogging along side the pick up as
it gained speed going down this massive mountain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Surely it will hit a tree and stop” my mom
was thinking, trying hard not to panic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>About the time I actually got the door unlocked and open, a massive tree
got in the way and my dad had to slam the door shut and run around the tree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At a full sprint now, he made one last leap
and grabbed the door handle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It slipped
out of his hand and the truck ran him over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As he finally gathered himself and looked up, the truck flew off a
hundred foot mountain.</div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As they
both cried and ran to the side of the cliff, they saw the pick up smashed in two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It was like a match book folded in two” My
mom described “every single window was shattered, and I knew you had been
thrown from the cab.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When my parents
made it down the side of the mountain to the vehicle, they found my sister and
I snuggled in the floorboard covered in broken glass, with not one scratch on
our body........</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You may not have a miraculous story like that to tell- but the fact that you are breathing means you are a miracle and you have a purpose. To know more about that purpose get my book! </div>
Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-12334019523512460762015-11-19T13:23:00.000-08:002015-11-19T13:23:53.326-08:00waiting for instructionsWe are studying the book of 1 Samuel at church and I love the drama! Who needs netflix when you can actually read God's word and get murder, deception, lies all in ONE chapter!<br />
<br />
Israel was not content (as usual) and asked God for a king. "We want to be like the other kingdoms, waaa waaa, everybody else has a king but us! Waa Waa We want a king." So what does a loving Father do? He brings them a king!<br />
<br />
In Chapter 10 we get to meet new king of Israel. Super smart Samuel gets to anoint this guy--Saul. (Side note, the texts depicts Saul as a big tall, handsome goof who loses his donkeys- probably not my first choice of king) Nonetheless, Saul is anointed king. After Samuel anoints him, Saul receives complete step by step instructions on what to do!<br />
<br />
V. 2- you'll find two men, v. 3 go to the oak of Tabor and meet three men one carrying goats, one with bread one with wine; v.4 they'll greet you and give you two loaves, and you'll take them.....and so on. For several chapters Samuel tells Saul EXACTLY what to expect and what to do.<br />
<br />
Dear Samuel, can I please get a word from you?<br />
<br />
OMY word, wouldn't it be amazing if we could get step by step instructions in serving God!? NOT FAIR! AND then it says "the Spirit of God falls mightily on him."<br />
<br />
So not only does he get step by step instructions, he gets a full-on-fall-on-your-knees hit by the Spirit of God. In verse 11, "others were wondering what had happen to him!" So this was a serious change in Saul. (Oh Lord change my heart so others can see!)<br />
<br />
But here's the kicker. After all the instructions Samuel gave him (that panned out exactly how he said)...then the Spirit coming on him and changing his heart; Saul still acts like nothing's new! His uncle asks him in verse 14-16 "Hey Saul, what's up? Where have you been?" Saul tells him he went to find the donkey and couldn't find them, so they ask Samuel. Samuel told him the donkeys where fine! HE NEVER TELLS HIS UNCLE THE COOL STUFF THAT HAPPEN!<br />
<br />
"But he did not tell him about the matter of the kingdom which Samuel had mentioned." 1 Sam. 10: 16b<br />
<br />
Dear Saul, get a clue! You are anointed by GOD ALMIGHTY, own it dude!<br />
<br />
Yet he doesn't. Finally he gets to be presented as KING of ISRAEL, and he is hiding in the luggage! (verse 22)<br />
<br />
Sad but true- I totally identify with Saul, yet want to criticize him all the same. Look at the opportunity you have! Look what God is doing for you, AND with a very wise mentor to help you. Saul- you have Samuel as a mentor, you have God falling mightily on you, you have a kingdom that is pretty new to this king stuff, so why are you scared? What an honor!<br />
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God has given me instructions before; I have felt the Spirit nudge me-- yet I hide behind my baggage all the time. Although I may not have a step by step instructions, I have loving friends, mentors, family members that speak truth into me on a daily basis. I have the Holy Spirit guiding my steps! And though I'm not 'leading a kingdom'- I have serving a Kingdom! Help me get out from behind the baggage and STAND Tall!!!!<br />
<br />Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-90907639251021888362015-10-16T10:33:00.001-07:002015-10-16T10:33:09.562-07:009 Year Old Evangelist"Mommy, guess what?! She wants to be a believer!" Abby exclaims on the phone in her tiny-squeeky voice. "What do you mean?" I probe. "My best friend mommy! I told her what John 3:16 means and how we are sinners and will go 'down there' if we don't believe in Jesus." <br />
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That was the phone conversation we had last night after my 9-year old hung out at her friend's house. She and Abby have been best friends since first grade and have gone through a lot together. Her best friend lost her mom to cancer two years ago, being raised by a single dad and two teen brothers, she has clung to our family unit. Now her dad's girlfriend is pregnant and she is feeling pushed out!<br />
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Abby has such a sensitive spirit and is very in tune to the needs of others. She is super happy and very vocal. She says what is on her heart and usually persists on the matter until you give in. Salvation topic is no different. Her best friend's family is from Belgium. They speak dutch, do not believe in doctors and for the most part buck organized religion. But the daughter that became my daughter's best friend is beautiful, fun-loving, and kind. A perfect combination to share God's love. "I told her about being born-again mommy, and that we get to have a new life as a Christian life!"<br />
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The conversation started months earlier when they were talking about their "crushes". Abby told her friends that her number one crush is JESUS. When her friends questioned her, she told them she wants to love him the most. Why are we not all super-crushin' on the man who died in our place?! <br />
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Abby wanted to give her one of our Bibles and a journal so she can start a quiet time. I sent witdh her the "J<a href="http://www.jesusstorybookbible.com/">esus Storybook Bible</a>"- our family favorite, to start out. She is planning on coming to our AWANA and wants to "pray more" she told Abby. "Mommy, we can do our quiet time together, and tell others about Jesus!"<br />
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"Go and make disciples in all the nations, baptizing them in the name of Father, Son and Holy Spirit." I truly believe Abby is setting the standard for us believers. She didn't want her Best Friend to hurt anymore, or be separated from God. She truly wanted her to KNOW her Jesus. <br />
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Way to go little Abby! Way to build the Kingdom of God!<br />
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<br />Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-43550694964453734492015-08-19T20:54:00.001-07:002015-08-19T20:54:32.411-07:00Who Parent's Who?My son is taller than me. What a weird feeling! I changed his diaper, spanked his little bottom, and carried him around in my hip until I had shoulder issues. Now he is taller than me! This got me thinking...<br />
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When do the tables turn with your kids? I mean, when do the parents start seeking advice from their children? At what point is there a confidence check? I 100% respect my parents and listen to their sound advice, but for most part, I seem to be leading the pack on decisions or ideals. Marty pays all the bills ad has power of attorney over his mom. He makes most of the financial decisions in her life. Years ago I could never ever imagine my kids making decisions for me. I never dreamed they would have enough wisdom or knowledge to make an informed decision. But now, my sensitive, sweet , taller-than-me boy is starting to convince me. <br />
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He loves the Lord and wants to do right. He loves his family. He loves me. He wants to be a husband and father one day, and he actually told me one time, "mom, you won't always be no.1 in my life you know?" (Ouch-insert knife deep into my heart). Really why? "Well, I'm going to be married one day and she has to be my no. 1. Just like daddy loves you."<br />
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OMY word. <br />
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The wisdom that poured out of that statement floored me. I mean, I literally felt my heart in my throat. (Yes that's a real feeling, when you have so much pride in you kid you can hardly swallow). He continued, "well actually mom, you may be #2 or 3. It depends how many daughters I have." <br />
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My 13 year old son is planning on having a family, raising them and loving them as Christ loves the church. What an amazing blessing. Who ever gets this boy is going to be ONE LUCKY gal! AND yes, I'll be visiting a lot to get advice from him.<br />
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Thank you Dear Lord for Isaac. The love a mother has for her son is indescribable. AND the fact his name is Isaac makes it hard! When Abraham was willing to sacrifice his Isaac for the Lord, puts that name at a whole new level! Lord help me raise my man child to walk upright and humbly at the same time. Help me not be annoyed by his tickling and loving hugs and "wrestling" he always wants to do! May the "#1 girl" in his life (future girl...I'm going to be as long as possible) even now be serving, loving and living for You! Protect her, keep her pure. Guard Isaac's heart and help him be a man of integrity. Thank you that I get to borrow him for a short lifetime!<br />
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I still can't believe MY head now rests on his chest!Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-39836357365529819882015-08-12T16:19:00.000-07:002015-08-12T16:19:00.405-07:00Broken Bone-We just "happen" to be at my sister's house at dinner time. Since she prayed for hospitable heart, and lived abroad for 10 years, she can cook up a mean meal for any number of people that just "happen" to be by! She had a pork shoulder roast in the crock pot and it smelled delicious. Sure enough, we all ate and were satisfied. My brother-in-law picked out of the giant roast, a 1/2 pound bone. Perfect for an 80-lb dog to chew on. <br />
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Well, I happen to have two. Gracie is our 3 year old sleek, yellow lab. She has been a delight to me and our family. She is obedient, loving, and a little to herself. I love giving her big juicy bones! Shadow is our new boy. A rare silver lab, he was born just 4 short months ago. HE IS HUGE! He is funny, he is NOT TRAINED. But I love him the same, and thinks he deserves a bone too. One big-delicious-juicy pork bone, and TWO deserving sweet dogs. That was my dilemma!<br />
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Being an equal-opportunity-dog-momma I decided to make it equal for both and took the bone, a file, a hammer and a saw to the garage. At first I tried to file it in half...nope- Then I tried to saw it, a little headway but was taking way too long. OH FORGET IT- Grabbed the giant hammer and started swinging. It was not secure as the hammer struck the bone, it slipped and bounced off the garage floor and hit my ankle at 80 mph. Omy-goodness....I saw stars! And may have said a few unworthy words. (I must really love my dogs...it's 110 degrees in the garage and now I have a huge contusion on MY big ankle bone!)<br />
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VICTORY--It worked! Two pieces (although not equal-ugh)- But two pieces nonetheless! I gave them to my puppies! <br />
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THEY WERE IN HEAVEN!~~~ And I'm sure they praised my name every lick and bite along the way. I'm sure I earned so much respect in their eyes.<br />
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In less than 15 minutes, those dogs were able to chew up and SWALLOW that bone!<br />
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REALLY?!!!!<br />
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The bone that caused major bruising, sweat and turmoil to divide!? They ATE IT!-In 15 minutes!<br />
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They ate it and loved it... but their internal bowels did not. <br />
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Yep, Shadow did not make it to the grass....not even to the door (gross)<br />
Four towels later, bruised ankle, and a late night I realized....... I will never just barge into my sister's house at dinner time again! Well at least without an invitation and a contribution.Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-57610831775976535922015-08-07T20:30:00.000-07:002015-08-07T20:30:28.637-07:00ChristianeseI sat by a woman on a plane one time that was obviously very successful. She shared all about the homes (yes plural) she is re-doing. In fact, she was flying to her Florida home to pick out paint color and floor decor. She worked for Starbucks and was a very confident sales executive. Being the curious type, I stepped further and asked about her family. This part was a little less rehearsed and I could tell she was struggling with giving me emotional details. To my delight, she finally shared with me that she was a grandma who adores her grandchildren. She also confessed that she didn't spend much time with them and preferred working than being around her family. After an hour or so of conversing like this, I asked her why it was hard for her to tell me about her family. She looked me dead in the eyes and said, "Because you're one of those and I didn't want to hear how God loves me and crap". I may have made a thump as my jaw hit the floor. This lady was definitely a hard business woman who tells it like it is, but she was missing the southern charm I'm used to. I admit, it hurt! But I had to press on. "Ma'am, what do you mean 'one of those'"? She went on to tell me the reason she doesn't stay in one place too long is because she hated the Bible belt where people invited you to church, she hated going down south because everyone is fake, and where her children live, is chaos. She loathes the terms "God bless you" and "Thank God". She even confessed she was worried to sit next to me because of my 'christian terms'. It was the most enlightening conversations I had ever had. My goal was not to convert her, or even "witness" to her. I honestly wanted to have a nice conversation, and maybe learn something from her.<br />
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Did I ever! <br />
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Scripture says, they will know us by our love. It says NOTHING about how many Bible verses you can quote, or hymns you can recite. It is by simply LOVING. (please do not get me wrong, scripture memorization is awesome and so are hymns )... Why have Christ-followers- disciples- gotten so far from that?! Why do we have to have memberships, and votes, and quotas? Where is the bare-bones love that Jesus showed? <br />
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Quite honestly, if I wasn't raised in the belt-buckle of the Bible belt or lived in the Christian bubble my entire life, I would feel the same way as my seat partner. I would RUN the other direction of those that always say the right things, do the right things and seem to know all the right things to do. IT would be an automatic turn off. <br />
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My new friend and I swapped business cards. We have actually had a couple of phone conversations regarding business a couple of times. I truly respect her. I sorta envy her. But I do pray for her! but most of all I am going to just LOVE her.Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-63121458688643148452015-05-09T05:35:00.002-07:002015-05-09T05:35:54.912-07:00Fresh Cut GrassI realized today why men like to "mow the yard" In between massive spring storms, the ground was just dry enough to cut grass, and the window of opportunity presented itself. Marty being at work, I decided to get the task done. I've always liked to mow. My daddy taught me on a John Deer when I could barely reach the pedals. He told me to "keep the tire" on the inside of the line and "keep straight"<br />
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Well we don't have an old John Deer. We have this fancy, zero-turn, space-ship type thing that doesn't have pedals or a steering wheel.<br />
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It took me about 25 minutes to start things (already over my time-budget). (I didn't realize you have to have the break up, arms engaged, blade up, choke on medium and hold your mouth just right- before the engine would actually turn over) Finally, I was in the hot sun, whirling around the yard.<br />
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We live on 5 acres with two beautiful ponds. A small portion of that land around our home is outlined with a small wooden picket fence. The fence is merely for character and will not keep wild animals out. I decided, for sake of time, I would focus on the INSIDE of the fence.<br />
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We have three kids, 2 dogs, a pool and various debris lying around the yard- you know a water bottle, soccer ball, pool floaties, things one should not drive over in a mower. But once I sat my tail end on that mower and put it motion, I DID NOT WANT to get off. So carefully weaving through and pushing aroun the debris I vowed to "get it done" without getting off. <br />
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On one particular obstacle I leaned forward to pick up the debris and leaned on the bar that pushes the machine forward. Whew that was close. I tried it again, managed to pick it up, but once again lurched forward and ran into the wooden fence with a bang. Boom- yep whip lash. Hmm, wonder if Marty will notice that 2 inch deep laceration in the wooden post. I continue on.<br />
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As I spin, whirl, and accomplish this task, I have a sense of pride. I am actually going to start, and FINISH a project in short amount of time. So many days, I start a project and get distracted, derailed, or simply bored, and therefore never finish. So actually STARTING, and FINISHING in the same day is victory in itself!<br />
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Grass droppings all stuck to my legs, sweat pooled up in my crotch (making it look like I wet myself), and a sense of accomplishment, I pulled the machine back into the garage (An entire different story backing that thing up)---by the way, you know a MAN designed that. You have to have TWO hands on the bars at all time. What if you wanted to drink? Or change the song on your itunes?--<br />
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SO I finished. (Don't look at the cement block I rearranged, the big holes I dug in the mud, the patches I didn't really cut, or the high parts I scalped) It was finished. It's pretty, and green, and smells really good.<br />
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I wonder if God sees us sometime like fresh cut grass. Phil. 1:6 says "And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will
continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ
Jesus returns.<span class="p">"</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="http://biblehub.com/esv/philippians/1.htm"></a></span>
<span class="p">Sometimes there is debris that gets in the way, and sometimes we have accidents along the way. But when the work is done, we are complete! ONLY in Him. Thank you Lord for beginning the work, and completing when Jesus Comes. Mowing grass isn't really that hard (especially with modern technology and zero turn machines). BUT it's a good reminder that our life may be over grown with weeds, debris and obstacles. But the Master Gardner is mowing, pruning and making US look beautiful. He will finish us one day when we get to be with Him, and what a glorious day of rejoicing that will be.</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="http://biblehub.com/esv/philippians/1.htm"></a></span>
<span class="p">Now off to weed-eating.......</span><span class="versiontext"><a href="http://biblehub.com/esv/philippians/1.htm"></a></span>Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-53363205058113526242015-03-18T10:06:00.003-07:002015-03-18T10:06:56.626-07:00<b><span style="color: red;">Matthew 6:33</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: red;">"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."</span></b><br />
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I've always liked this verse because of the last part: "all these things will be added to you" My mind went crazy on what great things will be added to my life. Today, this verse is something different to me. So when I read it, I had to ask Jesus a few questions!<br />
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<span style="color: purple;">1) What the heck is "His Kingdom"?</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;">2) What does "His Righteousness" mean (sounds unattainable)?</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;">3) What are "these things" that will be added to me?</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;">4) And really what does "seek" mean?</span><br />
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Jesus was preaching about worry! The thing that erodes away our peace and happiness. The verb that tends to rule a momma's heart- 24/7! Jesus wanted to make sure His audience knew we did NOT have to dwell in that anxious, unsettled world we tend to stay!<br />
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HIS KINGDOM- At first glance, I tend to think of Heaven. Pearly gate; streets of gold; little cherubs singing on the corner. But, I believe, the word KINGdom is really indicative of WHO rules. A kingdom usually has a KING- a monarchy and a place ruled by ONE. In this sense, Jesus is reminding us we have a KING that is in charge! Put HIM as your goal- Go after that understanding HE is in charge! He is the King and we are the princess....no need to worry! Our Kingdom is secure!<br />
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HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS- Finding HIS righteousness is almost opposite of seeking His Kingdom. In my mind, a King sits on His throne and barks orders all day. Jesus wants us to learn and understand GOD's character. Yes, He is monarchy King, but He is good, pure, righteous and all together lovely. Seeking and learning WHO HE IS will prove to us He has our best interest at heart. Righteousness IS His character- His personality. Jesus wants us to know that! and KNOW HIM!<br />
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THESE THINGS- (ok this is good) In the previous verses Jesus is literally referring to eat, drink, and what to wear. You may take it literally. Jesus wants to remind us, that EVEN the little day to day details are taken care of by the almighty King, who has a righteous heart. He will provide our basic needs. He does for the grass, for the birds, for kings. "You of Little Faith!" Jesus exclaims in vs.30. "Will He not much more clothe you?" Why worry about it? He's got it all taken care of! ALL of <i>these</i> things!<br />
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SEEK- Although I do not do it often, my kids LOVE to play hide and seek with me. I remember early on, when I would be the 'hider' and they the 'seeker', my kids would go around the house calling my name. "mommy, where are you?" they'd exclaim, almost too scared to look under the covers, or behind the shower curtain. Eventually I'd make a sound so they would be able to find me. I believe Jesus is asking us to SEEK like an adult would seek. Not merely calling out His name, but TURNING rocks over, opening doors, pulling back the curtain. He wants us actively and engaged in a full SEARCH for HIM! In every faucet of our lives, where is HE? Not that He is hiding from us, but in our busy-worried-filled life, we will MISS Him.<br />
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How many times have you gone through your glory-filled day, filling cups, dotting i's and crossing t's, and NEVER see Him? It's a definite intentional verb. SEEK Him. KNOW Who He is. BELIEVE what He will do. AND guess what?! Dinner is ON HIM :) Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-64147329977839211192015-03-02T20:21:00.001-08:002015-03-02T20:59:12.827-08:00So you want to write?Yep, that was the title of a blog I found when I was trying to find the email of some of my favorite authors. You see, writing a book as been on my bucket list for a long while now. <b>15 years ago I actually started one.</b> (it's a fictional love story based on true events- I actually have the first couple of chapters) I do not know how it has been resurrected, but it is strong, and I just can't fight it! So, like any other profession that I have no idea on, I go to the experts. An editor friend of mine sent me a lot of "articles" and "lectures" to read. My sister said it was awesome, and when I'm done, she'll buy my first copy. (she has to say that). Then I went looking for some of my favorite authors to get their advice. <a href="http://bobgoff.com/">Bob Goff</a> still hasn't returned my email, but I am not giving up. <a href="http://utmost.org/">Oswald Chambers</a> is out of reach, <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/ann-voskamp/">Ann Voskamp</a> is kinda out of my league and so that left Jen Hatmaker. A fellow Texan, whom I feel I know intimately (If you have ever read any of her posts, blogs, books, you'll know what I'm talking about); I figured she'd have plenty of time to read my first chapter.<br />
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Well, I couldn't find her personal contact information, (I know right?! Really...I must've deleted her contact information by mistake) but I did come across a recent blog of hers: <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2015/02/04/on-becoming-a-writer">Becoming a Writer</a>. (How cool that her website is just <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/">Jenhatmaker.com</a>. Maybe I should go secure Heidimckee.com right now....well, dang- it's $3000! Really?!)<br />
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Omigosh this is getting really long for my short point.(see I have a long way to go) Basically- Her blog about becoming a writer was inspiring but scary. She said it's hard. She said you may have to stay up at night. She said you may neglect your family at times (check). Be she also said GO FOR IT! <br />
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#jenhatmaker (not sure if that works on blogs, but maybe if she sees I'm hashtagging her she'll become a mentor or something)<br />
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I'm taking her advice at heart and starting my blog up again. Can you believe it- 5 1/2 years ago was my last post! We could've had a zombi-apocolypse and never knew!<br />
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I'm not sure who, if any will follow me, but I'm here to practice. I'm here to inspire. I'm here to pour onto paper what is bubbling in my heart! I want to MOVE people with words! I want to SHOW people what God has done for me! I want to become a writer--even if it is just my story that will bless the legacy of children!<br />
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So thanks Jen for coffee the other day (yes, I read her blog over coffee) Thanks people in my life that have actually produced some really great material I can actually write down! And thanks honey for not laughing at me! (Wow, I already have my dedication down!)<br />
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THE END<br />
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Note from the author (totally practicing here) <br />
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What is something burning in your heart that you've been wanting to do? Why haven't you started it, done it, asked for it, became it? What is holding you back? Maybe you want to invest in something big? Maybe you want to sell everything and be a full time missionary. Maybe you want to go back to school. GO ahead! I'll support you! We can do this crazy endeavor thing together! And you might find lots of good information on the internet...... Good luck! Work Hard- and GO FOR IT! I am :)Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-35407149737849300292009-11-08T19:26:00.000-08:002009-11-08T19:53:15.688-08:00Broken- but functioning...<span style="font-family: georgia;">Crazy days- no time to blog... here's a few reasons why:<br /><br />Our ford minivan had a terminal disorder. Something about the coolant was getting oil in it or something like...so, without changing the anti-freeze every time we traveled, it could mean major stalling and with three kids that just isn't an option. Plus, the heater doesn't work either. Okay for summer time- not so much in the cool mornings of November...<br /><br />It has rained more this fall than one can imagine. Our yard is like a swamp, completely saturated. Not so good when you have an old septic system that gets backed up when the ground is wet. During these times, I cannot wash, run the dishwasher or take long showers or we have a lovely smell of ethane gas, and possible a back up. <br /><br />My life-line (iPhone) was dropped and shattered. It is still functioning but I cannot see a flippin' thing most of the time.<br /><br />My toaster only toasts one side of the bread.<br /><br />I dropped a spaghetti squash onto my glass top stove and it shattered. It split in all directions. The burners still work, but the entire stove top gets super hot when one burner is on.<br /><br />Have you noticed a theme? I'm not writing to receive pity or sympathy. It is not my intention to have people say "oh, so sorry Heidi". I'm simply writing a wonderful word picture the Lord has given me.<br /><br />The theme? These items in our home-- are broken. In some way or fashion, they are not producing 100% the job they were designed to do. HOWEVER, they are still functioning. They are still getting the job done. For all practical purposes I can drive the van around (side note..I did get a new one :).... I still cook daily on my stove top. It will eventually dry up so I can flush my toilets again, and who needs both sides of the bread toasted anyway?.... They are still getting the job done. Yes, not effeciently, effectively, or perfectly but nevertheless, the job is getting done.<br /><br />So you ask, how is this a 'word picture' or 'illustration'? <br /><br />It is a perfect illustration because that is exactly how I feel. I am functioning. I have gotten the job done. I do what I'm called to do. The truth is however, is that I'm broken. I'm struggling on a daily basis to just make it through the day. Like my toaster was designed to toast that bread to the level programmed...I am to fulfill my job as a Mom, wife, teacher, cook, homemaker, church member, children's church leader, business owner, friend, and Christian.... but I'm doing a half-a!@# job. Yes, things get done, but in a brutal, ugly and painful way. <br /><br />What is it that is broken? I'm not sure? My spirit? My physical being? My psychy? I don't know. All I do know is that I'm broken. What I do know however is that I have a Savior that is a healer to the broken, and friend to the lowly. I rest in the knowledge of His undeserved grace and mercy. I can now identify with moms everywhere who feel like they have to have it all together...WE DON'T! I now can reach out to hurting women who struggle with depression. I now understand why....<br /><br />That's the season I'm going through right now. this too shall pass..... Thanks for listening! And I covet your prayers... I am sure an ugly person and really don't like what I am. I prefer to work properly or receive my money back!<br /></span>Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-14489658646141013652009-10-11T14:44:00.000-07:002009-10-11T15:11:43.129-07:00I want to move to Mars!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsxy1wh-OChn6yzb_8ewYloF7G6ygpyOdNw0HZ-Cfxll8TUsIt4K1Z-cAXmxRn6mmWJEEMxasI9hhzCl3YeAq1R33X-GlC59oZpwxSaYCX3BH-OAFCQLydg_9SS-_8SKRoGUcDeRGewo/s1600-h/2009+trip+to+NASA+093.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsxy1wh-OChn6yzb_8ewYloF7G6ygpyOdNw0HZ-Cfxll8TUsIt4K1Z-cAXmxRn6mmWJEEMxasI9hhzCl3YeAq1R33X-GlC59oZpwxSaYCX3BH-OAFCQLydg_9SS-_8SKRoGUcDeRGewo/s320/2009+trip+to+NASA+093.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391464489958588882" border="0" /></a>On our trip to the Johnson Space Center Houston I learned SO much! #1)I learned that if moved to Mars I'd only weigh 117 lbs! #2) I learned that our God is an amazing Creator and I learned that there are some incredibly smart people that don't get that! The wonders of the universe declares His majesty over and over and yet these educated, intelligent people still claim that the stars, planets, moons and everything in the Heavens just "BANGED" there! #3) I also learned that my kids are sponges!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHeN0N95rTitkYrvaIEfY0XosN1fOOtfRKsBEGWlbjXjU0T5GqxOdAUB3IitxPYeolNKrXz9PQ1YMK2eW1LUXdo8c-CMk1grcVs_KIMeywv7bW6SiXimTuSCZH6NvbFUopNJRY9L4tN4/s1600-h/2009+trip+to+NASA+050.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHeN0N95rTitkYrvaIEfY0XosN1fOOtfRKsBEGWlbjXjU0T5GqxOdAUB3IitxPYeolNKrXz9PQ1YMK2eW1LUXdo8c-CMk1grcVs_KIMeywv7bW6SiXimTuSCZH6NvbFUopNJRY9L4tN4/s320/2009+trip+to+NASA+050.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391463870243377058" border="0" /></a>Another interesting fact #4) I learned is that there has been an American Astronaut in space since the year 2000. They are living in the space station and rotate every 4-8 months. The International Space Center is 87% complete. While living there they have to tie themselves down to sleep, vacuum their urine (I know gross) and never get a cold drink (no room for a fridge) They have to take sponge baths because the water just stays in a ball and will stick to them. A towel wouldn't absorb the water so they'd have to vacuum the water off of them.<br /><br />Right now there are six astronauts vacuuming themselves in space. 2 Americans 2 Russians, 1 Canadian, 1 Swiss. NASA is working with 17 different countries to complete this Space Station. When it is complete the next mission is the MOON. They will be sending another man to the moon by the year 2020.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9DaNmfRGjE67VoLxk1Nr7ycp-NcW6YEE-Rtss62GvkaJymaWahe6DZG7fFcOurArgGHamFXgfmcYNDvrY6IJG85y3EeGhVJ9C0t_Xbj5zO4EVYk0Yn0n7PnHrOA3FgPJ5-H1s8ZFbvE/s1600-h/2009+trip+to+NASA+032.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9DaNmfRGjE67VoLxk1Nr7ycp-NcW6YEE-Rtss62GvkaJymaWahe6DZG7fFcOurArgGHamFXgfmcYNDvrY6IJG85y3EeGhVJ9C0t_Xbj5zO4EVYk0Yn0n7PnHrOA3FgPJ5-H1s8ZFbvE/s320/2009+trip+to+NASA+032.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391463575058837650" border="0" /></a>#7) Even if it is way cool in Dallas- it is still STEAMY hot in Houston! This was 8:30 in the morning and our glasses, camera, and windows all fogged up because of the humidity. We were ready to get in the AC!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWFlYm_o-eLw4bEoqJNDeKWSMDqBGMBJc8OZvgSe2trgfMU0GNNh-hn5MvhudtO1noBx54jCIfr-TmBJXZiqa_tLNaWHa836HjVBF6QRPW-t53QBUmd4U2Jz8O4PzWAE49dQHyH8wrt0/s1600-h/2009+trip+to+NASA+026.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWFlYm_o-eLw4bEoqJNDeKWSMDqBGMBJc8OZvgSe2trgfMU0GNNh-hn5MvhudtO1noBx54jCIfr-TmBJXZiqa_tLNaWHa836HjVBF6QRPW-t53QBUmd4U2Jz8O4PzWAE49dQHyH8wrt0/s320/2009+trip+to+NASA+026.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391463358956958786" border="0" /></a>The last time I was at Galveston beach was when I was in High School. I remembered it being dirty and stinky and not so much fun. That was NOT my impression this trip. A little smelly (fishy) but the sand was great, trash minimum, and waves huge! We found a dead jellyfish (And since my kids love SpongeBob, they knew all about the jelly fish), hunted for seashells and rode the waves...literally. I bought them all boogie boards. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmObGjrACXyqLRrvMIGAVjsoOFAX-MpjuNJpIXI4ooQZPAizroVl_mjCsHFSKPctCqDFChaVIWoDiNN4wMthKzZ4XgXM7SaP4gG9Qzir6xivmgDpeRA64AjUPjlwybNVboYD5I3PxVJU/s1600-h/2009+trip+to+NASA+020.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmObGjrACXyqLRrvMIGAVjsoOFAX-MpjuNJpIXI4ooQZPAizroVl_mjCsHFSKPctCqDFChaVIWoDiNN4wMthKzZ4XgXM7SaP4gG9Qzir6xivmgDpeRA64AjUPjlwybNVboYD5I3PxVJU/s320/2009+trip+to+NASA+020.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391463046769642386" border="0" /></a>Lastly, I think Jan (my friend who came with me) would appreciate this. The main thing I learned about this trip is that it's ok to OVER PACK! Because it was so chilly I really didn't think we would swim, so I didn't pack sufficient swimming gear and neither did Jan. To spare the details--- Just imagine how much sand can get in your underclothes when you are being pounded by waves for 3 hours....and imagine how they feel when you have to wear them the next day :) "nuff said"<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3ZzbVxYEgvuhTK4bRyocKJnTqzkasbMT2xRssG_-9DcB3-6NMFQn56bQ1AmaPE1rxejiyH69NU0k2DLnIV5X4zWyvjoI4St8Yf6b_NASDIx7moGOqCfWsubvpOZJUXEr3l7_EGNpdrg/s1600-h/2009+trip+to+NASA+021.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3ZzbVxYEgvuhTK4bRyocKJnTqzkasbMT2xRssG_-9DcB3-6NMFQn56bQ1AmaPE1rxejiyH69NU0k2DLnIV5X4zWyvjoI4St8Yf6b_NASDIx7moGOqCfWsubvpOZJUXEr3l7_EGNpdrg/s320/2009+trip+to+NASA+021.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391462811145999682" border="0" /></a>Homeschooling is awesome! I praise God we get to take field trips like this that bond us as a family and grow us as students! I hope they remember these things for the rest of their lives!Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-8994372092076668092009-09-13T12:02:00.000-07:002009-09-17T18:52:43.966-07:00Rhea Sunshine-<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih633vspGUHglT09VT96pbtV0AWzshq_y0kJ3jypRubUv11n0KKzVsRGhoIfCE2YrNz1BPirehUOF2KOA0s8FG9r0SLQwUu-boNJ1HdyUHUYQJkkRyvkQnRt-VVkWiH_FOmI-JmfqvwpE/s1600-h/R5bw.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih633vspGUHglT09VT96pbtV0AWzshq_y0kJ3jypRubUv11n0KKzVsRGhoIfCE2YrNz1BPirehUOF2KOA0s8FG9r0SLQwUu-boNJ1HdyUHUYQJkkRyvkQnRt-VVkWiH_FOmI-JmfqvwpE/s320/R5bw.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382618628165481298" border="0" /></a>My sweet middle child turns 6 today. As tears fill my eyes, I simply cannot imagine where the time went. Although she has always been a little "big for her britches" it was just yesterday she was taking her first step. In her short 6 years, she has aged so well. Talking before her big brother, potty training herself-before I even thought about it, learning to read on her own...she's always been "older than what she is. A couple of years ago, she asked me "Mom, when am I going to be a teenager?!" She wants be big in every way. She's also always been a spiritual little giant. If you mentioned you needed prayer around her, she would pray every night for that issue.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX8-GOdvjzwj5dihEjB-uprnvYgUEGaKdNKTdUNNdFfkMqbsOsaoY0x_oz3d2pX52PtidPAKS1EjPW6Lt8lf1WPprPLB1krIZ8GH8Kh4fjvPdz7L2y4XX2OIycEzadcB2y0pQpA2RauxI/s1600-h/R8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX8-GOdvjzwj5dihEjB-uprnvYgUEGaKdNKTdUNNdFfkMqbsOsaoY0x_oz3d2pX52PtidPAKS1EjPW6Lt8lf1WPprPLB1krIZ8GH8Kh4fjvPdz7L2y4XX2OIycEzadcB2y0pQpA2RauxI/s320/R8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382618620512790450" border="0" /></a>She always been my deep thinker. "Mom, how come God made girls and boys"....Mom, why can't we just be born in Heaven where everything is fun?" "Mom, why did God make darkness, didn't he know it makes little kids scared?"<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxJ-OHo37oHR9Q6p02LUyacyhqpCJsNka0reR5OVJVCcWDxbIBIapm7aqwNeO9WHN2OHTjOCyX_bFGM9yQx1eom752c7C_cCKQbz0kC4_jN-C5Neest9q9mu52z9mf74pA_m1ZxkaCWc/s1600-h/R1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxJ-OHo37oHR9Q6p02LUyacyhqpCJsNka0reR5OVJVCcWDxbIBIapm7aqwNeO9WHN2OHTjOCyX_bFGM9yQx1eom752c7C_cCKQbz0kC4_jN-C5Neest9q9mu52z9mf74pA_m1ZxkaCWc/s320/R1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382618636397417154" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I know that I'm a bit biased, but she is a beautiful person. I praise God that she got her sensitivity from my sister, her quiet integrity from her Daddy, and her love of people from me. My prayer for her, since she was very small, that God would use this quiet spirit as a servant in His Kingdom. That she would delight in helping others. It is sorta working. If Abby, her little sister, wasn't so independant, Rhea would be her little mommy. She is constantly trying to talk sweetly to her and help her in situations. She does the same with me. She'll rub my head and tell me she loves me, she tries to make me laugh when I'm upset, and she loves to embellish on stories. OH what an imagination.<br /><br />Yes, my little Rhea Sunshine is growing right before my eyes. I simply do not want to wake up tomorrow and take her to get her diver's license, but that is how it seems it will be. I was a 8th grade volleyball game of a friend of mine, who yesterday was toddlering around and still in diapers. I didn't realize that parents are the ones that get the growing pains! Oh Lord, may I raise a God-loving and God-fearing little lady that strives to please you in all she does. Thank you for blessing my life with her as you loan me to her for a short lifetime. May she call you her Savior so that she can live for eternity in your love and grace.....Thank you Lord for my Sunshine!<br />Love you little Rhea!Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-27572965654885939292009-09-04T16:19:00.001-07:002009-09-04T18:05:23.719-07:00First Week Of Homeschool!<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyemlkYf2t0GPXrMGROWdgkXH6-XYSTm8labgU4BL3pnfdjUWl_u6PIxWPhoGDvd8PuAi0N__E3fkX5r1dtQCtIw-199wsz3AGopllqRYN9MqNUK71aJpUDxIjXOmH4Rcc1j77-iPaWI/s1600-h/IMG_0426%5B1%5D"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyemlkYf2t0GPXrMGROWdgkXH6-XYSTm8labgU4BL3pnfdjUWl_u6PIxWPhoGDvd8PuAi0N__E3fkX5r1dtQCtIw-199wsz3AGopllqRYN9MqNUK71aJpUDxIjXOmH4Rcc1j77-iPaWI/s320/IMG_0426%5B1%5D" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377757580443186786" border="0" /></a>Our very first day of homeshool<br /></div><br />I am sooooo blessed to be able to homeschool my sweet babies. I've heard all kinds of comments "WHY would you do that?" "Are you crazy?" "What pocessed you?" "Of course you are..." and things like "you are going to be awesome" "I wish I could do that" and many many more encouraging phrases from friends and family. But I would like to answer the question WHY?!<br /><br />God has given each of us different gifts and talents we are to use for His glory. Although I tried and tried to deny it, my God-given gift is teaching (all ages and all things) As far back as I can remember I wanted to coach and teach. I thought I would ALWAYS be coaching. What I didn't realize is that coaching is just teaching with enthusiam and passion. Ever since Isaac was in my womb I wanted to teach him. I saw him in every 7th grade Texas History student I had, every little 8th grade volleyball player...I just new I wanted to be the encourager, passionate teacher in his life. I didn't necessarily want to homeschool...I just wanted to be his teacher. So God has given me 13 years of experience of teaching and coaching...it ONLY makes sense :)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyemlkYf2t0GPXrMGROWdgkXH6-XYSTm8labgU4BL3pnfdjUWl_u6PIxWPhoGDvd8PuAi0N__E3fkX5r1dtQCtIw-199wsz3AGopllqRYN9MqNUK71aJpUDxIjXOmH4Rcc1j77-iPaWI/s1600-h/IMG_0426%5B1%5D"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></a> <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUGhNFswdXUTStEoNuL7Uo8EIn0W-Jzu_E1tcnbsSCQ0kjWr2v6Ju9C_eQKabQaWavtlmdTj73SxchUuirjg1J5qFyljRl2ytVtJGKzi4bIctnJOGCc7pl9xM8UOk6FeqQC19jfUWPsk/s1600-h/IMG_0438%5B1%5D"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUGhNFswdXUTStEoNuL7Uo8EIn0W-Jzu_E1tcnbsSCQ0kjWr2v6Ju9C_eQKabQaWavtlmdTj73SxchUuirjg1J5qFyljRl2ytVtJGKzi4bIctnJOGCc7pl9xM8UOk6FeqQC19jfUWPsk/s320/IMG_0438%5B1%5D" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377757570442837522" border="0" /></a>kids at the Science and History Museum<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">When I sent Isaac off to kindergarten I cried like a baby for the first 2 weeks. And off and on through out that entire year. It was hard to be with him all day-- everyday to all of a sudden gone 7.5 hours away from me and in who knows what kind of influences. But I trudged on. Then First grade came. He had a great year and he LOVED school...but I missed him! We were yelling to beat the clock from sun up and racing to get some kind of "family" time in at sun down. Our lives were so crazy I hated it. I wanted to pull him out half way so I could just simply be with him. I couldn't bear going thru that with my Rhea and eventually Abby! I wanted to put the time and energy I was putting in other students into MY VERY OWN children!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSfXexldhfSpPDHcePy3PIXw_iUigE6JDKsfMvhtHngMrUKQd6Ntmgss1WOnt09np-l8vCUADH0s-JEpOzgjus957rRo7exrQaM9vFDXFhK7-tcZCxfQqIgvOiM2A2WQNBHqYP42wpuYQ/s1600-h/IMG_0430%5B1%5D"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSfXexldhfSpPDHcePy3PIXw_iUigE6JDKsfMvhtHngMrUKQd6Ntmgss1WOnt09np-l8vCUADH0s-JEpOzgjus957rRo7exrQaM9vFDXFhK7-tcZCxfQqIgvOiM2A2WQNBHqYP42wpuYQ/s320/IMG_0430%5B1%5D" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377757561641174530" border="0" /></a>we made astronomy notebooks for all the cool things they will do this year<br /><br /></div><br />It's only been a week--but as I told a friend today, if this is any indication of how this year is going to be then I can't wait! I LOVE knowing EVERYTHING they are learning (how many times have you asked you son/daughter what they learned...and all you get is 'i dunno'). Now we can expand, discuss and grow as a family! I love the fact that they will learn reading, writing, history, science and everything using God's word. For example, for Rhea's writing assignment she was to dictate a verse. She's learning penmanship and scripture at the same time! Above is our first Science project. We are studying Astronomy...from the perspective of Genesis 1:14-19. We get to praise God on a daily basis for His creation! Abby is even learning what the planets are named. Her favorite Venus because we chose a pink balloon to represent it!<br /><br />I am not naive to think that every week is going to be so exciting. I am worried that I want to cram in EVERYTHING and do EVERYTHING so fast. I am leary of fatigue, bickering (which has occured a lot), and frustration. I have experienced many 'I don't want-to's' and "this is borings" and have seen behavior that would NEVER be tolerated in a public school. I know the enemy HATES the fact I am spending loving, quality time with my kids and raising them to fear an Awesome God. I'm prepared for attacks....<br /><br />I am also expecting blessings, tender moments, and a chance to know my kids better than ever before. Why am I homeschooling? Because I am suppose to....not because the public school stinks (it really doesn't at all!) not because I'm anti-social or think my kids will be influenced badly, not because everyone else is doing it....I am homeschooling because God made me a teacher and I have a house full of students that will get me 24 hrs a day! I am blessed :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBpac6vFq9GUYCpx279pMy9nTwlUa3t5Ue7Fvth9KZg5s79iXMuk78MP3JasicdjYXpBdl_dvlU4xNb0mWZFJv3l9bgD_g_lHcP-p2eMU-RyhnCvSbch-GFAPYBqCG2Bo1rlUlgIgUoA/s1600-h/IMG_0428%5B1%5D"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBpac6vFq9GUYCpx279pMy9nTwlUa3t5Ue7Fvth9KZg5s79iXMuk78MP3JasicdjYXpBdl_dvlU4xNb0mWZFJv3l9bgD_g_lHcP-p2eMU-RyhnCvSbch-GFAPYBqCG2Bo1rlUlgIgUoA/s320/IMG_0428%5B1%5D" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377757556207134850" border="0" /></a>Yes there are nine(eight if you don't count pluto) planets and a sun. They are poportionate in size according to their actual size. and the orange wierd one is Saturn with it's rings :)<br /></div>Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-11391554026512606362009-07-26T13:51:00.000-07:002009-07-26T13:59:01.067-07:00When Asked...When asked, "What is it about Heidi that makes her beautiful to you?" Marty answered:<br /><br />"I could talk all day about how utterly gorgeous, beautiful and sexy my sweetheart is on the outside. One of the things that makes her so beautiful to me is she works hard at and wants to take good care of herself physically. It not only motivates me but I personally think it shows how gorgeous she looks on the outside. But my sweetheart's outer beauty is only a small part of her whole beauty package. You should see how God has put her heart together. She is a passionate woman. This is evident to anyone that knows her. About what you might say? EVERYTHING! She is the absolute funnest person I have ever known. I haven't appreciated that attribute enough but it is definitely a part of what makes her so beautiful to me. But without a doubt her most beautiful quality to me is she is the most incredible "lover" a man could ever want. By that I mean her passion and how she loves others, including me!! That has and always will be one of the most attractive features about her. She doesn't just love you but she loves you passionately and with all her heart. What more could a man or friend ever want or desire in life from another."Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-75457687564869808332009-06-30T19:39:00.000-07:002009-06-30T20:12:59.367-07:00Roller Coaster Life<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVqrXO7s2kDYSWHuII8lUfxN41Uu-UfFAsFMNi0cLE0IvIbcmiXLWMlFXHawM0vCNJwzxqtk5Qrfv8FYz0xULC036NQPlvmTBuMQRazvPgcT33bznnqm05JgicFwM1UtD5P8FDSImwO0/s1600-h/IMG_0313%5B1%5D"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVqrXO7s2kDYSWHuII8lUfxN41Uu-UfFAsFMNi0cLE0IvIbcmiXLWMlFXHawM0vCNJwzxqtk5Qrfv8FYz0xULC036NQPlvmTBuMQRazvPgcT33bznnqm05JgicFwM1UtD5P8FDSImwO0/s320/IMG_0313%5B1%5D" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353321293023155138" /></a><br />Yesterday we went to Six Flags. We bought season passes this year and has already proven to be a great investment. We took a couple of friends. Isaac brought his best bud who happens to be just 2 inches taller which puts him in another "ride bracket" His buddy can ride the 52" rides but Isaac can only ride the 48" ones. However, the TITAN at Six Flags requires you to be only 48" to ride. His buddy is definitely the "thrill seeker" and couldn't wait to ride the BIG one. Isaac was all talk :) So we took the long walk to the Titan. Left the other yellow belly folk behind.... Isaac was very apprehensive but kept walking with us. Side bar: I AM a thrill seeker, however the older I've gotten the worst my fear of heights have gotten. i am learning it's not even worth the muscle tension for the 'thrill'. So the Titan is a big height's ride.....Isaac held my hand all the way up the walk. Keeping one eye on the coaster and one eye on the exit he clung to my hand hoping the courage he wanted would miraculously seep from me into him. We stood in line and he held onto me as if he was making the choice to play Russian roulette or not. I assured him over and over that he did NOT have to ride, but he would have fun if he did and he would be very proud of himself too. (secretly I was hoping he'd chicken out) And then is was our turn. With false boldness he stepped onto the car. He was very worried that there was nothing over his shoulders. And so was I. He said, "mom, I get to call Daddy and tell him I did this!" He wanted my hand on him tightly, and I wanted it there too. Side bar: The Titan goes 90 miles per hour and reaches over 25 stories. Two things that would make any mom a little quezzy sending their 7 yr. old baby on.<br /><br />Up the incline. I saw the fear in Isaac and I was coaching him along the way. Trying to point out the positive, "hey look at that you can see the new Cowboy stadium, look how cool, those people look like ants" He was buying it. And then BOOM, down we go. And when you think you should stop dropping, you drop some more. We were whooping and yelling and having a blast. He did it! He enjoyed it! He was so proud of himself, and I was proud of Him!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtL5dGvzivppLaOGjYFh2tuQZn5IMTnjFfbIgNMofUUWtHbvFTn8yhFFOJzYGtH3RCS2CDYIzjmBEYJ7EwfMAONBF57oylRvwTEJi52rjvmnvV5-FCXxADDX7ug2IdkS0Bu4lrtKvebc/s1600-h/IMG_0323%5B1%5D"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtL5dGvzivppLaOGjYFh2tuQZn5IMTnjFfbIgNMofUUWtHbvFTn8yhFFOJzYGtH3RCS2CDYIzjmBEYJ7EwfMAONBF57oylRvwTEJi52rjvmnvV5-FCXxADDX7ug2IdkS0Bu4lrtKvebc/s320/IMG_0323%5B1%5D" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353321846770481266" /></a><br /><br />As we were walking back I realized that not once did I have that fear I normally do when I do something stupid. I wasn't even worried about the heights, the "black out" point, the speed, the what ifs...my only concern was my son. My focus was on his well-being, his joy, his desire to overcome. <br /><br />Life is definitely full of drop offs, spins, loops and crazy-intense moments. And most of the time we are so focused on our non-contentment, our fears, our worries that we simply forget the one sitting next to us. We are trained to be selfish- although our call is to be selfLESS! When I focused 100% on someone else I actually enjoyed the ride. I think that is how life as a Christian is suppose to be. Get our mind off our self and help our neighbor be a little more comfortable. Think how church would be if we lived like this.<br /><br />I'm honored that I got to be there for Isaac's first roller coaster ride! I praise God that I got to see his face light up. I hope and pray that I can come along side many in my life to encourage, lift up and help them have a better ride. Come with us!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHr-7ujn7DJ4A1yH6Wnmj8tjP_LNs7Y7KGKEs-kLuJcuGwdjsrcfZVmgsc9Nuql1JEqo12KXVDs9lNttCh11tGe9UKcDabd4LlbfoNjmUrX7SJ4iPkt_0BWNjZ7jwAOMrpsvbDu5H5-c/s1600-h/IMG_0321%5B1%5D"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHr-7ujn7DJ4A1yH6Wnmj8tjP_LNs7Y7KGKEs-kLuJcuGwdjsrcfZVmgsc9Nuql1JEqo12KXVDs9lNttCh11tGe9UKcDabd4LlbfoNjmUrX7SJ4iPkt_0BWNjZ7jwAOMrpsvbDu5H5-c/s320/IMG_0321%5B1%5D" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353321852134753282" /></a>Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-22344201937285391972009-05-29T15:02:00.001-07:002009-05-29T15:48:15.692-07:00Abby Mae---3 years.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-PVq_bAqAvOs-Mdyp3AJp3KUs7RKTmUMb2iqEOddUTVisnc2_Lb5-dYUIjtcZyZ5mIstnFfVJSToKiG28XPwqTmCQyhJDzKFYKQXSjNC9ZnL6BTqhHDEsvAfJfi3CPQJmGtxVp8v1_LM/s1600-h/IMG0256.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-PVq_bAqAvOs-Mdyp3AJp3KUs7RKTmUMb2iqEOddUTVisnc2_Lb5-dYUIjtcZyZ5mIstnFfVJSToKiG28XPwqTmCQyhJDzKFYKQXSjNC9ZnL6BTqhHDEsvAfJfi3CPQJmGtxVp8v1_LM/s320/IMG0256.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341377883773388562" /></a><br />So I heard a lady talking about blogging the other day and how it is a new way to journal and keep a chronicle of life. I do admit since Facebook has entered my life, I've neglected my blog AND my journal. I'm not sure if these exact posts will be around when my children are grown up, but just in case they do, I'd like to blog a few things about them every once in awhile. JUST to prove to them how much blessings, pain, laughter and tears they brought me throughout the years...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkmbwPL24GreybSl-26IfsUej2ISfWNE4Z3OGcDAgvr2DUNUAteF2HrnT5SBmipjis4v55XMJcGWHsBzSRJCLs-BnzgGbyffEmOlQbNOrf1Cb54MWMSJ6yQqakHiKp-or05m7Zw-cNJmQ/s1600-h/IMG0248.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkmbwPL24GreybSl-26IfsUej2ISfWNE4Z3OGcDAgvr2DUNUAteF2HrnT5SBmipjis4v55XMJcGWHsBzSRJCLs-BnzgGbyffEmOlQbNOrf1Cb54MWMSJ6yQqakHiKp-or05m7Zw-cNJmQ/s320/IMG0248.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341380236589552482" /></a><br />Abby turned three. As some of you know, Abby was the 1/3 of our children that we did not time out perfectly planned. She was a "I think I have the flu" baby! My pregnancy with her was not physically as hard but mentally definitely the hardest. I went into some kind of depression that had me so irrational, looking back now I scared myself. Unfortunately those moments of dark thoughts still creep in every now and again. Do I blame Abby? No, however, she often times is the trigger to my lack of control.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSU_puJRh9FQBPF1jsHGchhRcv0l-JzyFAIukt68DGM9DofuHNroiXS6SspO2D8eYeM1gVDmQRCmG1biQ5FpjPH6iO7RZeHViLZtaU_0V6fvXVMefqA2r_5vZzd6jiOCSLe6VKcEUfKY/s1600-h/CIMG6916.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSU_puJRh9FQBPF1jsHGchhRcv0l-JzyFAIukt68DGM9DofuHNroiXS6SspO2D8eYeM1gVDmQRCmG1biQ5FpjPH6iO7RZeHViLZtaU_0V6fvXVMefqA2r_5vZzd6jiOCSLe6VKcEUfKY/s320/CIMG6916.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341381282444122210" /></a><br />Abby is a lover. She will sit in your lap and pet you explaining how booootiful you are. She hugs and kisses me more than the other two combine. She is also very funny. Ever since she was tiny she tried to get us to laugh. Walking out with buckets on her head, carrots up her nose, soap in hair...something to get a smile. On the flip side Abby is our strong willed child. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDDxVnIysO6AuTTrJLUrBuVsg9sbzaObUAq3-Hlr9djj_wZ_tsr0SirMXCemlMuIqOPWIxIV-tGgJTaf4XAtmIM1XNC7itUxu2X57254SGrFdJgjB4ta6NXplwGxISSxGhpiAleeabhk/s1600-h/IMG0185.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDDxVnIysO6AuTTrJLUrBuVsg9sbzaObUAq3-Hlr9djj_wZ_tsr0SirMXCemlMuIqOPWIxIV-tGgJTaf4XAtmIM1XNC7itUxu2X57254SGrFdJgjB4ta6NXplwGxISSxGhpiAleeabhk/s320/IMG0185.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341377887062878946" /></a><br />When James Dobson talked about Strong-Willed children, and my friends said they have a "strong-willed" child, in my stupidity I thought they weren't disciplining like they should...or "they must be bad parents" etc., God "got me for that one"! Strong will does not necessarily mean disobedient..but definitely has it's moments. When I say Abby is strong will, this is what I mean. If she wants a cookie (most 2-3 years will throw a fit). That's Abby's first stage. When she has not broken me down...she moves on to the next step. Pleading. Yes, my three year old pleads and explains why she should have the cookie. "But mommy, rhea got one lastgo" (means last night). Still when I haven't given in, she goes to step 3. Keep in mind this is over a period of several hours. She will not forget she asked for a cookie. Third step is to take matters into her own hands. She will sneak, ask another member of the family or WAIT until the next day. She has AMAZING tenacity and I'm sorry to say that on many occasions my little angel has won!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5r1BU-LDAldYzEpH4xMEyRs9IoFU27JYAX1fuV-XJQhhToZ5rkimrUPES9XOSEpVo2KhDKRzdm4y7tWn3a76magh2g0t8udsy1fHgYqalp6hSQArx1ZkYPQPY3jSPkTu-_FpgPSEWqFU/s1600-h/IMG0289.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5r1BU-LDAldYzEpH4xMEyRs9IoFU27JYAX1fuV-XJQhhToZ5rkimrUPES9XOSEpVo2KhDKRzdm4y7tWn3a76magh2g0t8udsy1fHgYqalp6hSQArx1ZkYPQPY3jSPkTu-_FpgPSEWqFU/s320/IMG0289.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341377892217319314" /></a><br />I have so many more stories about her passion to get her way, but I'm worn out just thinking about it! All that to say, I think God will use someone like that! As a matter of fact when we were vacationing with my parent, all three grandkids where in the car for 7 hours with 4 adults. Not for a 2 minute time period did Abby be quiet. She laughed, squeeled, cried, whined, sang and whatever else to keep herself stay awake; driving everyone else crazy. My Dad laughed "She's just like you Heidi". Little did he know I cried that night. Poor child is like me! I do have a will and it has to be broken quite often! Praise God He is a good will breaker....and a will taker. My prayer for Abby is that she will use her will for furthering the Kingdom of God at a very early age....He is the one who designed her this way and I know He will use it for the good<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJCwP6GYboIlu40I6BK9hvb84e-rQEKOAZnJKaJIwBEHV1XxFwihbSvhr4OVzk1JAY-LgEt0RyEVPwFw0EAK7hwR8ZCVbKU_cd51HEvsogQpbh14IHa_SHWgUquzgf_wwvmdEjJquHck/s1600-h/IMG0254.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjJCwP6GYboIlu40I6BK9hvb84e-rQEKOAZnJKaJIwBEHV1XxFwihbSvhr4OVzk1JAY-LgEt0RyEVPwFw0EAK7hwR8ZCVbKU_cd51HEvsogQpbh14IHa_SHWgUquzgf_wwvmdEjJquHck/s320/IMG0254.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341377895307790610" /></a><br />Abby is the first to push you but the first to say "I'm sorry" She's always the first to say please and thank you, but if she wants something from your plate she simply helps herself, she's been known to get out of bed and go scratch her older sister for no reason...and later ends up snuggled so close to her you can't see between them....She is our instigator in both peace and war...she is smart (a little too much for her own good) She is our blessing! Thank you Lord for Abby. Happy Birthday.Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-11188473710422975812009-04-19T19:03:00.000-07:002009-04-19T19:34:55.648-07:00Few things about my Kids-So I've kept a journal with writings about my kids. The quirky things they do, funny things they say, silly things they may have done....but I can't find it! So I decided to blog it instead so that I have some kind of documentation one day. Even if no one reads it....<br /><br />Isaac- Such a sweet little guy. Growing right before my eyes. You are so determined at everything you do. You've started playing soccer and have soaked in as much as you can. You practice everyday and really want to be good. You love making good grades. You really like your teacher and want to please her. You have made straight A's all year and really like school. Lately you've been asking to be baptized. You really want to serve Jesus and have done so well studying and memorizing scripture. You've finished your AWANA book with a breeze and LOVE to go to church! We are so blessed. You are an awesome big brother. I totally trust you watching over your big sisters. You get them breakfast, put their shows on, and talk to them so sweetly. You and Rhea played checkers together tonight for about an hour....you play really well with Rhea (Abby not so much....but not because you don't try!) You are going to be mighty in the Kingdom of God! I love you so much. My prayer is that you desire to serve Jesus with all your heart, your mind and your might!<br /><br />Rhea- You are so beautiful! Inside and out! I really enjoy talking to you. You pick up EVERYTHING! I cannot sneak anything past you. So smart and want to be involved in all our adult conversations. Tonight you were quoting to me your scripture verse "trust in the Lord with all your heart, don't lean on your own understanding, acknowledge Him and he will make your paths straight." I asked you what that meant and you said "God will help our sins not get curly" One time we were talking about lying (sometimes you have a tendency to lie) When I asked you why you do that, you said "Satan gets in my heart and makes me do it." Well I explained if the Holy Spirit is there He can wipe out Satan...we need to pray for strength to overcome. So we prayed in Jesus' name... You started laughing. Why? You said "It tickles!...Jesus is cleaning my heart...I'm not going to lie anymore!" I love you my precious daughter. My prayer for you now is that you and I will be close friends and able to spur one another on for Jesus...<br /><br />Abs--Oh Abby! My sweetie. I just want to love you, squeeze you, kiss you all over! You are our strong-willed child. If you want something...you will get it. You will try EVERYTHING in you power, including being cute, begging, crying, manipulating, sneaking, or even waiting until the next day. You wear me out! You wear your brother and sister out too. You will sit next to them and just put your hand right in front of them...scratching them, poking them just sitting right beside them bugging the fool out of them. You are relentless...never stopping. I pray that this desire, this strong will be for our Jesus..you will do EVERYTHING in your power to serve Him. You are so stinking cute though and so smart. Already singing your ABC's quoting scripture right along your sister, and you love to sing. Your favorite thing to eat is chips! You call them "crackers". You call bandaids "boondaids" and need one daily. When you are thirsty you say "I want thirsty" My favorite thing to do with you is snuggle and love on you. You'll stroke my hair, rub my face and say "momma you so pretty" (you probably have an alterior motive :) I love you my sweet abby!Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-81660939106039820192009-03-03T19:16:00.000-08:002009-03-03T19:18:26.062-08:00A long long time...I know it's been a way long time...but seriously I upload photos and notes all the time to facebook,,,I just don't have time to do it twice! SO if you're not on facebook, you're missing out :)<br /><br />It's still crazy here....one day I'll have time to write and focus on my blog ;)Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-32251055712678812312008-12-14T20:57:00.000-08:002008-12-14T21:00:30.241-08:00Christmas Card 2008<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4e546b314f5445304d513d3d0d0a&campaign=blog_playback_link&blogview=true" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play Christmas Card 2008" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4e546b314f5445304d513d3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=hallmark&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="46" alt="Create your own scrapbook - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;"/></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/scrapbooks/?partner=hallmark" target="_blank">Make a Smilebox scrapbook</a></td></tr></table>Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7202945428648673741.post-49514124319354566772008-10-28T18:47:00.000-07:002008-10-28T19:14:23.912-07:00SeasonsA chill in the air, a cold wind, orange, red, yellow....apples, pumpkins, longer nights. This all adds up to one thing: AUTUMN. And I love it!<br /><br />And, fires in the fireplace, Christmas, warm beds, hot chili.....yummy WINTER<br /><br />Well, new life, green, warmth, colors, birds, bugs, easter....Spring... I like that too.<br /><br />Swimming, sunbathing, vacationing, no school....SUMMER, Love it too<br /><br />I love the seasons. It seems whatever season we're in is my favorite one. So my conclusion is I like change. I am NOT happy doing the same thing over and over. I need variety, a new scenery. Maybe because my parents moved a lot when I was little...I'm not sure, but I thrive on change... I'm always trying to find something better I guess.<br /><br />Well change has been happening around the McKee house. My kids are growing. In fact, Isaac's face has changed a lot, he lost his FIRST tooth today at school. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMEzBoH7iNWprB6XY1ykVhTAEM-DlsDEMyxhtwo5dGBhas_opGxev8AzsYstPLGMvAkCRFG5OxS_r4RRzLNtr1vESqLBbLYlBYShVnfIvLofbvaR655RptonJOyW76kaxv0ieXv0dEIpA/s1600-h/CIMG6354.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMEzBoH7iNWprB6XY1ykVhTAEM-DlsDEMyxhtwo5dGBhas_opGxev8AzsYstPLGMvAkCRFG5OxS_r4RRzLNtr1vESqLBbLYlBYShVnfIvLofbvaR655RptonJOyW76kaxv0ieXv0dEIpA/s320/CIMG6354.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262389776032355330" border="0" /></a>I don't think it's bad to like change.....so why would I be so lax in my spiritual growth. Why am I content with NOT going deeper, NOT pushing myself, NOT getting out of my comfort zone. I seem to crave it in every other aspect of my life: my weight, my job, my furniture, my income, my attitude........So, my prayer is that I choose CHANGE, live out the fact that Christ has taken this full blown sinner and <span style="font-style: italic;">changed</span> her into a spotless princess...so why don't I change into that?<br /><br />Interesting...Heidi McKeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11953097354346953741noreply@blogger.com1