Safe and Sound

We just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas (even if it is late) and all the best in the New Year!! 

We just made it back from Kelowna today and are exhausted, a little sick from the flu and desperately needing to get back on schedule!  I have lots to share and lots of pictures to post, but will have to play catch up later.  

Praise the Lord for good roads, safe travels and that we made it both to Kelowna and back again safe and sound!

God Bless,

The Gooches

5 Years Ago.....

I made the most important decision of my life----and accepted the Lord Jesus Christ into my heart to be my personal Saviour.

I don't usually get too personal about my faith on this blog, but this time I will. I have been reflecting a lot lately on the 5 year anniversary and was trying to think of a way to... I guess document it. I really want my kids to know about my journey with the Lord. I want to be able to encourage them, love them, praise them and just be there for them and show them that no matter what challenges they face in life, God will ALWAYS be with them. I want God to be the centre of their lives and will strive to live as an example to them. Since becoming a mother I think that the biggest burden I have on my heart is trying to be the best Christian mother I can possibly be, and lately I feel like I am failing in so many areas, but I know that God has mercy on me, and through God's grace and answers to prayer I will get better!

So looking back on a few things that I have learned and that have helped me grow, I decided to do a list! I am still a work in progress and even though I have heard some of these scriptures over and over again, it takes a bit to just sink in! :o)

1.) I now know what it means to have a personal relationship with the Lord. I never knew what this meant and how important it is and has been in my life.

2.) DO NOT WORRY! I have had the following scriptures pasted on my fridge, mirror, where ever for a few years now. I need these constant reminders ALL OF THE TIME as I am a chronic worrier.

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air, they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?

Matthew 6:25-27

And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, Oh you of little faith?

Matthew 6:28-30

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:34

3.) Persecution. I knew that being a Christian was not always going to be this wonderful, blissful walk with the Lord (that will come later in heaven), but I never anticipated the persecution, insults, judgement that I have received. So these versus are constant reminders that I am not alone.

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Matthew 5:11-12

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. (this is not an easy task)

Romans 12:14

In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and imposters will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.

2 Timothy 3:12-13

4.) Perseverance! There have been so many times when I have just wanted to give up, just pack it in and forget about trying to live my life according to God's will. The amount of critisism we have received for the decisions that we have made is sometimes just too much. We make all of our decisions based on prayer and seeking God's will. Unfortunately there are not many that will ever understand that and have said some pretty harsh stuff about us. One example (there are many more)is our trip to Australia. Tonnes of research (you have no idea how many years) went into this move, and most importantly a lot of prayer and really seeking God's wisdom and provision. So many doors were opened and opened wide. Even though we came back a lot sooner than we anticipated we still believe 100% that it was God's will for us to go there. Too many prayers were answered in some pretty incredible ways while we were there, and we also learned some pretty amazing, difficult, but important lessons. However, we are continuously critized (and of course John is always blamed) for the money that we spent. We don't really care about the money, after all it is just money. It is not money that we serve or that provides for us, it is GOD and only GOD. That was a huge lesson for us. Was it a struggle when we were in Australia, you have no idea! Most of the critics are unfortunately those who have never moved out of the country and tried to live and settle in a new country, haven't done much travelling, but think they know everything.

I get pretty frustrated and upset over this, but lately as I have been talking to God, the one thing that he has revealed to me and laid on my heart over and over and over is the image of Christ on the cross during his last hours facing these people who only a week ago were worshipping and praising his name, witnessed miracle upon miracle and now were ordering his death, hurling insults, and in the midst of all of this the Lord Jesus said, "Forgive them Father for they do not know". Powerful words in such an agonizing time, but so true. So something that I really need to work on and remind myself of. These people need Jesus in their lives and they just simply do not know Him, but I pray that one day they will know Him.

Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope.

Romans 5:3-4

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4

5.) Sharing my personal relationship with the Lord with my husband. I am so blessed that i can share my tears, my fears, the joys, the hardships with my husband. It is amazing that we can share this intimate spiritual connection because of our relationship and committment to the Lord Jesus Christ. I could not imagine if we did not have the same beliefs and did not want to live our lives for the Lord and follow his will accordingly. Praise the Lord for our unity!

There are a lot more things that I could write, but I won't. I am so blessed and even though there have been so many hardships these last few years, there have also been so many blessings. The Lord has answered so many of our prayers and has provided us with so many blessings or miracles, it is sometimes overwhelming. God Bless you and I hope that you take the time to rejoice in this magical season as we celebrate the best gift of all, the birth of our saviour Jesus Christ!

A Bit of Randomness

1.) I have been so EXHAUSTED lately. I know, I know, I am pregnant, but I am past the first trimester so my energy should be coming back soon--I hope! So with this exhaustion I seem to put Zech into bed and then crawl into bed shortly after myself--pretty sad. I am behind in emails, commenting on blogs, phone calls, cleaning, you name it!

2.) My sister-in-law just shared this picture with me! She just had some family pictures done last weekend and they are absolutely stunning!! Her photographer just started her business and was actually a mother of a kid that went to school with my youngest nephew. She did a great job and of course it helps that they are such a photogenic family! You can check out the slideshow here.

3.) Read this on our friends blog and thought it was an interesting read. Especially with all of the political hype that has been going on both here in Canada and in the States. (You will have to read on the left hand side for the post titled "Defining Politics", he posts a lot of stuff (good reads if you have the time--I might add), but it may be hard to find the post I am talking about)

4.) My friend Heather continues to inspire me. She just completed a 20 page scrap book challenge and I was lucky enough to see all twenty of her pages while we were at their place visiting. I am so amazed that she was able to complete 20 pages with a newborn and two year old in tow! I can't even complete one page and I just have Zech! I absolutely love her work too!

5.) Compassion Canada has an amazing blog that just grabs me and puts me to tears every time I read it. I don't know what it is, but both John and I are so touched and affected by children who are suffering, we both are brought to tears and desire to do so much more. We are sponsors and it really is such a blessing to have these kids in our family. We are so fortunate and take so much for granted here.

6.) Operation Christmas Child just ended it's annual campaign. I have tried to make this an annual activity, but missed out last year. I had a lot of fun this year doing up a couple of boxes. I would really like to make this a part of our family Christmas traditions. I think it is such a great way to teach our kids about giving to those less fortunate and to show them how blessed we really are. Then I was quickly enraged to discover that there is controversy about this program because they give a Bible out with each shoebox (in their native language) to the kids. My goodness, what is next! Is this really all that some people can be upset about; a great program that teaches kids about those less fortunate and how to give and not take for granted all of the wonderful things that they are blessed with. I am appalled! No, instead we force sex education, drug education, let our kids watch all sorts of filth on TV at an extremely young age and this is what enrages some people the fact that a Bible is given out! Pathetic!

7.) My big plan was to finish all of my Christmas shopping by December. That did not happen, but I am close and all the presents that I do have are all wrapped and ready to go. As for Christmas baking and Christmas cards.......the baking may be sparse this year and the Christmas cards are ordered and just arrived today!

8.) I got to hear the baby's heartbeat today and it truly was incredible. It kind of made everything seem so real now (not that my growing belly--ok huge belly didn't---I questioned whether it was one or two heartbeats---i am so big this time)!

9.) We had Zech weighed and measured the other day. He is a whopping 28 lbs. 8 oz. and is 3 ft 1 1/2 inches tall. He is in the 50th percentile for his weight and the 95th for his height. Not much as changed, but I was quite surprised at his height. We measured him right before he turned two and he was just barely three feet, and now he is over! Little monkey!

10.) Zech is so into Christmas this year. He just loves all the lights, the snowmen, Santa, baby Jesus, you name it. It is so much fun watching him and sharing in his sweet, innocent, excitement. It really makes you appreciate all the small things and of course the most important things surrounding this beautiful holiday.

GrEIGHTful!

Once again a little late, but better late than never!

I take back what I said a few weeks ago about being grateful for the right to vote, because as it stands with our current situation with our government I am disgusted, irrate and angry. Our votes mean nothing and this is far from being a true "democratic" country. I will continue to pray for this lost, confused nation of ours, but I have lost a lot of hope. God please save this country!!!!

On a lighter note, it has been a busy, tiring and eventful week. Lots to be grateful for!

1.) My sister who looked after Zech for a day, so that John could get some productive studying in. Zech LOVES being with his Aunty, and cousin Jonas and of course his Uncle too. She also made us supper!

2.) That another week of work has ended! :o) Lots happening, not always easy to deal with!

3.) A chance to get together with my friend Pamela and go for a nice, adventureous walk! :o) Pam and her hubby are expecting their first and are about a week ahead of us! So excited for them!

4.) Bright NIghts with the Nenasheffs! We had a great time and Zech went nuts looking at all the lights!

5.) A chance to connect with some dear friends! We went to Calgary on Sunday and spent the night with the Moll family! It was so awesome to see them and meet Silas for the first time. It was too short and filled with a lot of excitement. Zech was pretty excited to see Helayna and made a point of showing off. He was so full of energy, he really played John and I out! We really did have a good time and are so thankful that we could stay with them!

6.) A chance to see Vince, one of John's good friends that just recently moved to Calgary. These two have quite the history.

7.) Safe travels and a good reliable vehicle--praise the Lord!

8.) My wonderful husband who gets me up every morning, makes my lunch and drives and picks me up from work. Not to mention all of the work he does around the house, looks after Zech and goes to work and studies hard. He is just an amazing man and I am so blessed to have him in my life!

Jokes from a two year old...

One of the many things I LOVE about my little boy is his amazing sense of humour! Who would have thought (I know that I never did) that a two year old would be capable of joking around.

Now I am sure you must be curious how this little monkey of mine jokes around, well let me tell you!

Every morning when he wakes up this is our conversation!

Mom/Dad: Are you hungry?

Zech: Yeah!

Mom/Dad: What would you like to eat?

Zech: Icecream? (followed by uncontrollable laughter)

Mom/Dad: No, you can't have icecream for breakfast you silly boy!

Zech: Cake? (followed by even more laughter)

Mom/Dad: No, you can't have cake for breakfast (laughing)!

Zech: Cookies? (laughter turns into snorting)

Mom/Dad: No, you can't have cookies for breakfst (by this time it is hysterical laughter and tickles and then we start over....)

Zech: Icecream, cookies? (thinking maybe if I ask for two, I may just get one)

It is pretty funny and he thinks he is just the funniest guy on earth. Maybe we have a comedian in the makings!

The second thing he LOVES to do is pretend to sleep. We'll be playing and right in the middle of playtime, he looks at you and waves and says "night night" and drops to the ground and pretends to fall asleep. The funny thing about his pretend sleeping is that he snores and he even closes his eyes. Then he wakes up and we say good morning and tickle him like crazy. This little game could go on for a good half hour or longer. It just cracks me up that he actually does a pretend snore and if we are talking, he will open his eyes and give us the "SHHH" (he even uses his finger)!! This kid is too funny!!

(His cheeky boy look)

GrEIGHTful!

I know it's already Wednesday!! This week is going by really fast, but I did want to get my GrEightful list up before next week, so I don't have to play catch up again!! :o)

This week I am grateful for:

1.) The fact that I survived my first LONG week at work!! It was hard and I am exhausted!

2.) That we all slept in on Saturday! I was worried that Zech would wake up at 6:30, but we all must have been tired and slept in until 8:30! Those extra two hours were marvelous!

3.) That we made it through the first trimester with no complications!! It has been a LONG, exhausting first trimester and I thought it would never end, but it is getting better already!

4.) Lunch and shopping with the Nenasheffs!

5.) A chance to meet some of John's friends from High School (who live in Alberta now). It is amazing how many people John has re-connected with on facebook (and I as well). This weekend though, we had the chance to meet up with some friends that he has not seen in about 20 years. It was really great and I was so amazed at how they were able to just pick up right where the left off and get into some really deep, encouraging conversations. We look forward to seeing them again!

6.) My sister and brother-in-law and the wonderful supper they came over and made for us! Plus we got to babysit Jonas while they went to the movie. It was nice to have some alone Aunty and Uncle time with him, but he really missed his parents and wasn't too keen on going to sleep! He is a real cutie though--even when he is upset!!! :o)

7.) My beautiful little boy! He is amazing and we are so blessed to have him in our lives. Plus, he is the best darn veggie and fruit eater I have ever seen! This kid thinks that raw broccoli and cauliflower is a treat!!

8.) Photoshop! I wish I could take perfect pictures all the time that never require any editting, but I am far from being that good--yet! ;o) I love Photoshop and don't know what I would do without it. So here are some of the pictures that I took of Zechy after I editted them!

The Inevitable

I wanted to wait just a little longer, but it appears that I just don't have control over everything or most importantly how my body is once again changing right before my eyes.  I honestly didn't think that I was even showing, but it has started, random people coming right out and asking if it is number #2.  I can't lie and soon everyone is going to know, so it is ANNOUNCEMENT time.

Yes we are very happy to announce that Baby G #2 is on its way.  I am 13 weeks prego, with the estimated arrival June 1st, 2009.  We are pretty excited and a little nervous since the first pregnancy was pretty rough! So please do keep us in your prayers!!!

Zech is pretty excited and we are so amazed at how much he understands.  Or misunderstands--he pointed to John's belly and asked if that was the baby and then he lifted up his shirt thinking the baby was in his belly, but then I explained that the baby is only in Mommy's belly and I think he understands now.  He gives me and the baby lots of kisses (it is soooo sweet) and he likes to show the baby his toys, so every night I get trucks, trains and cars driving over the belly!  Plus he has a book on being a big brother and he loves it! So much so, he started ripping the pages out and carries around the picture of the baby that he ripped out---erghhh!

Lots of changes once again, but we are so excited and feel so blessed! And we really do need your prayers!! :o) 

GrEIGHTful!

I am actually posting this on time this week! Yay for me!!! :o)

This week I am grateful:

1) For my Job and the fact that the week is over. It was a short week (only 3 days), but I was exhausted!

2) For my wonderful husband! He is so good with Zech and they had so much fun together (I don't think Zech asked for me once while I was at work)! He has made up a schedule and I am quite impressed with his organization and dedication to his family, his little man, and his studies and of course his devotions!

3) That Zech really likes the snow and is excited about it. Last year when we returned from Australia he HATED it and cried everytime I tried to take him out and play in it. As you can see John and him had a blast! (John was pulling him on his boogie board--and everytime they turned a corner he would whip Zech around so that he fell off and Zech was laughing so hard he had tears coming down)!

After he took a dump! Notice all the snow on his face! :o)

4) That this week is over! John was working crazy hours right until I went back to work and it was just a LONG, tiring week.

5) Safe travels for John and my Father-in-law. John flew to Kelowna yesterday after work to pick up our other vehicle and drive back today. I just talked to them and they are in Cochrane, but the roads have been horrible! Praise God that they have made it this far and pray that they make it home!

6) God's messengers in places I least expected.

7) Stories in Hand course by Jessica Sprague. I have had quite a few technical difficulties and am no where near being caught up, but the course is really great and the system is pretty cool! I know I will make good use out of it!

8) That my little boy posed for me so nicely today. I finally took his two year photos (only a month and a half late)! I got him all dressed up, did his hair and told him that I was going to take his pictures. I hung up my backdrop and he sat right down and started saying "cheese" before I even had my camera out. I was shooting in Manual mode (something I don't usually do) and well some of the shots were not that great at all. I think I forgot what mode I was shooting in and never did the proper adjustments so a few nice pictures did not turn out as clear as I had hoped. Oh well, I really need to practice more and I don't think that Manual mode is a good mode to shoot an energetic two year old who has an extremely short attention span! I should have been on Action mode!

What a little stud muffin (yeah, yeah I now I am biased)!! He loves his pockets now, so when I told him to put his hands in his pockets and smile--he thought that was a pretty good idea! I just can't believe what a little boy he is now--my baby is gone!
This one isn't even that clear! :o(
Notice how blurry this one is!!! :o(

The NO MORE pictures pose!! He had enough by this point!


By the way......I did get some good clear shots, I am just not posting them yet! I have to edit and print them and then I will post them! I was just disappointed that they weren't all clear and that the lighting was a little finicky--I am still learning and need to practice a lot MORE!!!! He is still a cutie none the less--especially with his new outfit and new hair cut!

GrEIGHTful - another extended version

I am so bad at blogging lately, it is horrible! I can't believe October is gone and we are already in November. Some days the time just flies--other days not so much!

This weeks GrEightful list is going to encompass that last three weeks or more (so expect a few more than eight things on the list). I think that is how many weeks I am behind--sigh!!!

1) A visit with my sister and Jonas. After both boys had a nap, they seemed to be eager to play with one another and they were so funny, I wish I had video taped them. Zech would rub his head into Jonas and Jonas would grab his hair and then they would both just laugh hysterically!

2) My wonderful hubby who completely cleaned our place and sorted, moved boxes around, etc. How on earth did I get so blessed!

(one of my favourite pictures of him I took this summer at the beach)

3) Trips to the "lellow Slide" and the "Purple slide"! Although lately, walks collecting rocks, trees and pine cones have been much more interesting. He could care less about the playground!

4) Great phone calls with good friends! I miss these friends so much lately!!

5) Baby Showers! I was at baby Isabelle's (Trish and Trev's little one) shower a few Sunday's ago and it was a lot of fun and tonnes of great food! She got so many clothes--I think everyone loves shopping for little girls!


6) Email to keep in touch with friends all over the world (even though I am horrible at it lately). I got this nice little picture in my email box a bit ago and it made me smile and wish that we lived closer!


7) My inlaws who spent just over a week with us. We had a great visit and Zech was so happy to see his "Gaga" and "Nanny"! They helped me out so much with dishes, cooking, and looking after Zech! We were sad to see them go!

8) My grandparents and a chance to have a great visit and celebrate my Grandma's 85th birthday. When asked what her secret is, her response made me chuckle. She told us that we just need to stay "cool and collective". So there you have it, to live to 85 just stay "cool and collective"!! :o) (She cracks me up)!



9) Date nights with my dear husband. My inlaws graciously offered to look after Zech so we could go out for a couple of date nights while they were with us. It was so nice for just the two of us to get out. We don't get these opportunities often and it was funny because we both felt like we were dating again!! :o)

10) A nice, safe first Halloween for Zech. He went as a horse (thanks Missy for the costume). We took him to the mall for a bit and then had supper and then we stopped in at Halloween Alley. Zech didn't know what to make of this whole trick or treating thing until we let him have a treat, well them he was full bore!



11) Uncle Cor, Aunty Mel and Baby Joe as Zech calls them! We had a nice visit with them on Friday and then yesterday they looked after Zech for a few hours while we went to a friend's surprise birthday.

12) Lunch with the Nenasheffs! We have some great times with the Nenasheffs and we are so blessed to have these wonderful friends in our lives.


13) Finally securing a job. I got my old job back and start on Wednesday! What a huge relief! Lots of changes about to happen in our little family, but it will be good. John is excited to be able to look after Zech and focus on his schooling. I know that Zech and him are going to have a blast together. For some reason my truck and tractor sounds just aren't as good as Daddies! ;o)

Long Overdue...

I know this blog of mine has been so neglected lately, it's pathetic! I do have a lot to share and write about, and record, but never seem to have the time or energy to do anything lately!

So I will play a little catch-up.

At the end of September, right before we moved back here to Edmonton, we had a little birthday party for Zech. I just wanted to share a few pictures. He is obsessed with Choo choo trains, so hence the idea for the cake. I still can't believe that my little boy is two and what a two year old he is.

The boys trying to pick off all of the goodies---okay they were actually discussing which piece of the train they wanted!

I do have to give credit to my wonderful hubby and nephew Cody for helping me decorate the cake! It was a little challenging making a cake when half your kitchen was in boxes! Zech really liked his cake and was so excited about his "choo, choo tain"!

We also had a little get together with my side of the family once we arrived here in Edmonton, but I was on a picture taking strike for some crazy reason and never got one single picture. I am not too overly impressed about that, not very smart on my part!

Now for the next birthday celebration.....my Grandma Halwa turned 85 on Oct. 27. John, Zech and I drove out to Leduc to visit her and bring her some birthday loving! Last time I saw her in September, she couldn't remember who I was, but this time she did! I think it helped that I was with Zech and John-John. She calls John, John-John! As soon as I told her that John-John was with me, it seemed to click and she knew who we were.

Zech was really good and was giving Grandma lots of hugs and kisses. He was "full of beans" as Grandma said and she wasn't joking. It was like we had loaded him up on caffeine or sugar (which we hadn't) and he was just going 100 miles an hour the whole time. My poor Grandma looked like her head was spinning from his flurry of activity, but she really enjoyed the visit. Trying to get some decent pictures was a difficult task, as you can see!

Then we went and visited Grandpa. Zech thankfully calmed down a little and was full of hugs and kisses for Grandpa too. However, he was really interested in rocking Grandpa in his chair and we had to really watch him so he didn't rock poor Grandpa right out of his chair. Even though Grandpa has alzheimer's he is really good at holding a conversation and he laughs at all of John's jokes and even jokes back. When we were leaving Zech and I said goodbye and then John shook his hand and Grandpa grabbed on to it and wouldn't let go. So John kept talking and thanked Gramps for the visit and Grandpa stated that "it was his pleasure and to come anytime"! It was pretty funny and touching!

Free Class

I am so excited for this class from Jessica Sprague. I just registered and can't wait until it starts. I struggle so much with journalling and telling the stories about the photos I take. I can't wait to learn what she is going to teach us and to start journalling better!! The best part is that it is FREE!!

GrEIGHTful!!

So I have changed my Grateful Eight title to Greightful at the suggestion of my Aunt Elaine! You know it took me a while to come up with "Grateful Eight" and then my Aunt gives me the great idea for an even better title! Why didn't I think of that??

This week I am GrEightful for:

1. A pleasantly warm October.

2. The Keg. We went for supper last weekend and we usually never go to the Keg (due to the price and the portions), however we decided to try it again. They were awesome! They brought Zech a plate full of veggies, crackers and fruit while we waited for our meal (and never charged us for it). What a life saver. He was hungry and when he gets hungry he gets restless and really fussy. He was so good, and he had all of the waitresses stopping by to say hi--little flirt!

3. My husband. I haven't been feeling that great. Zech is just coming off his flew and maybe I got it. However, John is so great with Zech and lets me sleep in when I most need it! He is the best!

4. A two year old and his many ramblings! This morning he was downstairs playing and he was repeating over and over ..... "I'm a good boy, I'm a good boy, I'm a good boy"! It was so funny! He was in trouble this morning and I told him he wasn't being a good boy, so maybe he was trying to convince himself to change! :o)

5. Time to do some digital scrap booking. Even if it was only one layout, that is one more I have to put in my album!

6. Catching up with good friends. We met with Dave and Jeanette and got to see their little Princess for the first time. She is so gorgeous and such a good baby! It was so nice to catch up with some really great friends of ours! We really did miss them!

7. Chatting on the phone with the Vianello's! Even though they are in Europe, they are just a phone call away! They are doing great and adjusting to their new roles. It has been really interesting to learn about Holland and their medical system through Mari. They are very hands off throughout the whole pregnancy. The midwives deliver the baby at the hospital and if baby and mom are fine, they send them home 3-5 hours after the baby is born. However, (this is the best part) they get their own personal nurse for 8 days after the baby is born. This nurse is there to help you and you can consult with her at any time. Mari and Tony's nurse has been cooking, doing laundry, helping out with the baby, and cleaning! I think that is great! The after care is so important, especially when you are a first time parent!

8. Reading the Bible and learning more and more about God's character.

Grateful Eight

I haven't felt much like writing, taking pictures or even blogging lately. All three things that I really do love to do. I haven't touched my camera for two weeks! Can you believe that and I have missed a few moments that I can't get back (although Mel says that I can re-create them--haha--still not the same), so it is time to get out of that rutt and get on with doing what I do enjoy doing!

So I am back with my Grateful Eight!

1. Yes we made the move back to Edmonton thinking that it would be the best move for me to get a job. We are open to God's provision and plan and if that means moving to Calgary we will go there, but for now we are here in Edmonton. I have extended my prioirty to include both Edmonton and Calgary and so far have got only referrals for positions in Calgary which completely caught me off guard (we decided we will go wherever the first position comes up). This has been a hard move, as we really loved Kelowna and the lifestyle in Lake country and moutain bike/hiking country, but we have to do what is best for our family. I am grateful to be close to my family again, but do really miss John's family! Bittersweet!

2. My beautiful little boy, who has been a little sick lately, but still melts my heart and makes me smile. I thank God every day for him and know what a miracle he is!

3. Beautiful baby girls. Trish and Trevor had their first beautiful little girl on Oct.2nd and then Mari and Tony had their beautiful little girl on Oct. 13th. We are so happy for them.

Baby Isabelle Pearl

(Trish and Trev's little angel)

Baby Ruby Matilda Vianello

(Mari and Tony's little Gem)

4. University of Athabasca. John has started and I think he will do really well. He is so excited and just wants to get his degree done--keep him in your prayers please!! I admire his faith, persisitance and courage to do what he feels that God is calling him to do, even in the midst of so much negativity and lack of support and encouragement that he has had to face from certain people. He is such a remarkable, wonderful man of God and I challenge those people to truly get to know him instead of constantly passing judegment on him! God loves us all!!

5. The Bible--need I say more! I am continuously amazed at this Master piece and that God can speak to us (if we allow him to) so clearly and precisely through the Word, the Truth! I am also saddened by the continuous attack on the Bible's validity by both non-christians and Christians alike. The evidence for its validity is both INTERNAL (contained within its text) and EXTERNAL (verified by ancient Bible manuscripts, archaeological discoveries, early Christian and non-Christian writers, etc.). Some of the most recent archaeological discoveries once again proving the Bible's validity are so exciting and mind boggling! God is so amazing!!

6. The freedom to Vote. Some days I look at this country of ours and I see all of the things that are failing,corrupt and immoral and it just seems to be getting worse. I want to see this great country of ours be the best it can possibly be and as Canadians we need to start standing up, speaking out and taking some pride in our country. So yay for everyone that went out and voted.

7. My Dad and all of the wonderful times we did have with him! On Tuesday it would have been his 65th birthday (how fitting that an election was held on his birthday--he really did like politics)! I miss him and think about him often. I really wish that he could have met his grandsons. He loved kids so much and would have been beside himself with his little boys! Zech does have certain personality traits that really remind me of my Dad (I guess that was inevitable since I have a lot of the same personalities traits as my Dad too)! I think about my Mom a lot too. I know it has not been easy for her!

8. My Aunty Elaine. I have been praying and thinking about my Aunt so much lately as she battles breast cancer. She is an amazing woman, with so much to offer and such a warm, caring, loving heart! She is probably the friendliest, chattiest person you will ever meet. So please keep her in your prayers.

Still Here...

We are still here, just been a little busy and well things have been chaotic lately. Still trying to figure stuff out, but am constantly reminded that no matter how crazy, stressful, chaotic, unsure life is, the one thing I am always sure of is God's love and my amazing husband and wonderful little boy.

Also, I can't believe that my baby was two last Friday!! Where has the time went! He is growing way too fast!! We have been practising his age for a bit now, so the other day we went in to "vote" and the lady asked him how old he was and he smiled and said "twooo"--just as we practised! We are still working on his name. If you ask him what his name is he replies very confidently and boldy "me". He isn't completely wrong, but we are working on it and he will say "me" and then "ech". I guess the "Z" is a little hard to say! The long version of his name will have to wait a bit! :o)

I do have some pictures to share of the b-day parties, but am really behind and disorganized lately. So please bare with me as I try and get things together!

HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING and take time to reflect on all of the wonderful things we have to be thankful for! God Bless!

Grateful Eight extended version

I realize that I am really behind in my posting and I missed last weeks "grateful eight" altogether, so I will make up a little this week.

Unfortunately there will be one more post after this one and I will be on a bit of a break. We have been a little busy lately and are getting ready for another transition. So hopefully I can get back into the blogging thing again soon, but for now there will have to be a brief "pause" in my bloggin!

So for the past two weeks, here are a few things I have been grateful for:

1. Nice fall weather. The weather has been gorgeous here and the colours are even more magnificent. Hopefully this weekend I can get out and capture some of the fall beauty with my camera.

2. Good health again. Zech has been sick and is slowly getting better. John has also been sick and had a bit of an eye infection. John had to see an eye specialist and it has cleared up now, but they want him to come in tomorrow to discuss the results of some of his tests that he had done. I think that he is fine, but of course he is a little stressed, so please keep him in your prayers and pray that it is nothing but good results (he still has 20/20 vision and does not wear glasses--I hope our kids inherit his eyes)! :o)

3. A chance to fly up to Edmonton by myself and see some of my family. I saw my grandparents which was quite difficult. My Grandma especially has failed and had no idea who I was!

4. Lunch with my sister, nephew and mom and then time to visit with my Aunt Laurel and the girls (thanks for the new boots too--they looked awesome with my interview outfit)!

5. An interview in Edmonton that seemed to go pretty good. Please pray that I get something soon! This is getting really frustrating!

6. Accident claims. We just settled an accident that John was in three years ago (he was hit on his motorbike) and were happy that it was finally over. However, the next day our neighbour backed into our van and did some considerable damage. We handled it extremely well, it is just a car and nobody was in it. Our neighbour wasn't too impressed, but thank goodness insurance will cover everything!

7. A wonderful scrap booking package from Mary. I entered a little contest on her blog and won! My little monkey got into it and I found him chewing on the little paper flowers she had enclosed--he told me it was his "vilo" (vitamin)!

8. My wonderful husband who is such an amazing father. He did a great job looking after Zech while I was away. It was the first time I had been away from both of them for two nights, three days! I missed them like crazy!

9. My sister, brother-in-law and nephew. They let me stay with them, chauffered me around and made some great meals for me. Plus I got Jonas all to myself and had lots of fun playing with him.

10. My in-laws! They have been so wonderful and supportive. My father-in-law just turned 68 last week, so we had a nice supper to celebrate. He is in remarkable shape for 68 as he rides his bike EVERYWHERE, every day!

11. My newfound love of BBQ shrimp. I am not a shrimp fan, but my brother and sister-in-law made shrimp skewers for the B-day supper. I thought I would give it a try as my taste buds have really changed recently and to my surprise and delight I loved them! I am still not sure about the raw shrimp, but the BBQ shrimp skewers in garlic butter--delicious!

12. Dreams and provision!

13. Good friends that I am able to stay in contact with no matter how far away we are!

14. The Bible.

15. Almost forgot about our new MAC laptop. Love MAC and don't think we will ever go back. We bought it for John as he is back at school and will be doing everything online. Our PC laptop has been plagued by viruses lately and our Desktop crashed, so we took the safe route and we are so glad that we did!

6 Random Things

Today I was checking out my friend, Melinda's blog and found out that she tagged me with this little game. So, just so she can read my responses, and any of you interested readers I've decided to play along.

The "rules" of the game are as follows:

1. Post the rules on your blog
2. Write 6 random things about yourself
3. Tag 6 people at the end of your post
4. If you're tagged, DO IT and pass on the tag 

* * * * * 

1.  I don't get a chance to watch much TV, but I have to admit that I am a huge "So You Think You Can Dance" fan! I started watching in Australia and it is the one show that I "plan" to watch.  I think that I would have loved to take some dance lessons.  I started taking some latin ballroom in Mexico and loved it.  Apparently I do have some rhythm(the many years of piano, band and dancing with Dad must have helped), but I have zero flexibility and lack a bit of coordination!

2.  I love to cook and bake and actually find it relaxing.  I love to entertain and share new recipes with friends and family, but never seem to have a place big enough to do so.  One day when we buy or build a home, the most important feature would be the kitchen and the dining room.  I want a HUGE kitchen with a big eating area.  I would also like to take some cooking or baking classes, just for fun.  

3.  I love the heat and hate the cold!  I dread winter and hate feeling cold.  I think this fear or dread of the cold happened when I returned from living in Mexico.  The day I left Mexico it was a beautiful hot day with temperatures reaching in the high thirties.  I arrived in Calgary to minus 20, wind, flurries and absolutely froze to death.  I prefer the nice dry heat though, versus the super humid, sweat non-stop heat.  

4.   I have the travel bug and it is permanent.  Even with all of our moving around, I still love to travel and I get the itch all the time (I am grateful that my hubby shares the same travel bug--maybe it's contagious!!).  I would love to see more of Europe, and I would love to see South America and Central America. My dream trip is to go to the Holy Land and see all of the historical, biblical sites. I would love to see where Jesus and his disciples walked, where miracles were preformed, to see where the most well known biblical accounts took place.

5.    I miss living in the country and hope that one day my kids can grow up in the country and be free to explore, and enjoy the great outdoors like I did as a child.  There was a time in my life where I couldn't wait to get off the farm and into the big cities.  I did enjoy my time in the city life when I was young and single, but now that I am married and have a little one, I would love the simplicity, the peacefulness and the serenity of living in the country again!

6.  My favourite movies and books are those that are based on true stories.  I am not into fantasy, fiction, any of that stuff (I never liked cartoons growing up either--I know I'm weird).  I like bibliographies, historical accounts, archaeological findings, stories that are based on true events and movies that are based on true stories. They are easier to relate to and I love hearing about other people's lives, struggles, fears, likes, passions, etc. Unfortunately I do not have as much time as I would like to sit and read a great book, but one that I have read recently and couldn't put down was "Save me from Myself" by Brian "Head" Welsh (he was the guitar player for the extremely heavy metal band Korn and became a Christian---his testimony is remarkable.

You've been tagged:

1. Aunty Elaine - I know that you would have lots of random things to share and that I would thoroughly enjoy reading what you had to share!

2. Melanie - You need to update your blog, so this is a little push to do so! :o)

I don't really have anyone else to tag.  Melinda has tagged Heather, Crystal and Deanna and those are the blogs that I frequent too.  So you are double tagged in a sense! :o) 

Gianna Jessen Abortion Survivor in Australia Part 2

Part Two.

How true, God does have a way of making the most miserable thing beautiful! God is in control! In the midst of all the pain, hurt, and suffering in this world, it is so reassuring, so wonderful to know that our Father is in control!

Another challenge Gianna offers is to put aside our desire to be Politically correct (PC) and stand up and be morally correct (MC). I love my country, but I am so sick and tired of seeing stupid laws passed because we are more concerned about being PC rather than MC! I am tired of everyone getting this uncomfortable look and start shifting about as they look for the closest exit because they do not want to address these horrific realities! We need to stand up in Canada and we need to defend the weak, the unborn, the defenseless!

Why is it that a little boy's puppy that was shot to death makes more headlines than the hundreds, the thousands, upon millions of babies that die each and every day, each and every year? It makes me so sad to think that we value an adorable little puppy more than our precious unborn babies!

Gianna Jessen Abortion Survivor in Australia Part 1

This was posted on our friends blog and I had to post it on my blog.

Gianna Jessen is a remarkable woman. After watching her share her compelling story and speak out on the atrocity of abortion, I really do not understand how ANYONE could continue to think that abortion is a "personal choice" and/or a "woman's right"! I still fail to understand how some Christians and churches will not take a stance on abortion.

I like Gianna, will chose to be hated to declare life.

She poses a good challenge for myself and I think for all of us: how much are you willing to stand up and speak the truth in love and graciousness and at least be willing to be hated in the process?

Or in the end is all about you or me and living in our comfort zone? Wow, what an inspirational woman!

Grateful Eight

This week went really fast for some reason! Maybe because we have been so busy!

I am grateful for:

1. More subbing time! This time I was with the older kids, well namely the adults. Only had two 16 year olds (who gave a lot of attitude), and the rest were a lot older. It was a fun day!

2. The opportunity to go and see my assessment results for that horrible interview I did. Yup, I swallowed a lot of pride and did not want to go, but felt it was important. I am so glad that I did (still don't have a job, but I don't feel as bad about myself and now know where I need to improve)!

3. "Major Trouble"!! What a fitting name, especially this week (after the surprise he left in the bathtub, the countless glasses of juice, milk and water he dumped all over, not to mention the temper tantrums--yes the terrible two's are upon us)!!

4. My boys! These two love to play all of the time! Zech is such a Daddy's boy and I can see why!

5. Possible job opportunities. I have been applying all over and to lots of different jobs. Please pray that I get something and that God will direct and lead us to where ever it is He would like us to be.

6. My Aunty Elaine! She is a wonderful, passionate person! She loves to talk and interact with people, listen to all sorts of wonderful music, and shop, shop, shop! :o) We found out that she has breast cancer, so please keep her in your prayers!

7. Family time! I love spending time with my wonderful husband and my beautiful little boy! I am so grateful for the wonderful moments we have together and feel so blessed that they are in my life!

8. The newest addition to the Moll family! Silas Jonathan Moll arrived on Thursday, Sept. 4! We are so happy that he is here safe and sound and that his mommy, daddy and big sister are doing well! You can check out some pictures here and go to his Grandma's blog here for more pictures and a really sweet video!

Grateful Eight

I can't believe that today is the last day of August! Where did the summer go!! :o(

This week I am grateful for:

1. A week of subbing!

2. That the week is over! I was exhausted come Friday!

3. John, Mom and Dad Gooch, Jason and Missy and the kids! Thanks for baby-sitting!!

4. Friends and their wonderful emails!

5. Athabasca University! John starts in October and can get all the courses he needs and get credit for all of his previous courses--even his ones from Taylor Seminary!

6. EBAY! You can really get some awesome deals on ebay! I just picked up a pair of $150-$200 jeans for $40 including shipping! (I already knew what style and size I needed, so it was quite easy!) I can't wait to get them!

7. God's love, grace and mercy!

8. Canoe trips and time to enjoy the great outdoors. I love that Zech is such a nature lover and loves to be outside and explore as much as John and I do!

Love how he says "eese" as soon as I pull out the camera! I sure did train him well!! :o)

My pathetic attempt at a self portrait with my boy! Ha! :o)

A favourite house of mine! The property is huge (there are two houses on it) and it is really nice and private!
I need to clean the lens. We are actually using our small, little Fuji to take these pictures. Didn't want to risk taking the Rebel on the boat! I am quite impressed at how well these pictures turned out, considering!These next two pictures are John's place that he grew up in . His Dad bought this property in the 70's for really cheap and there was just a little cabin on it. John and his Dad added on to the cabin considerably. It is really hard to see in the pictures, but it is quite nice. John gets really upset when he comes down here as the people that are in it (renters) have just let it go. John's parents are REALLY particular about the house, landscaping, you name it! So for them to see it looking like this is well kind of a shock. There was also a huge dock, but it is gone now. The whole family really misses this place, but the taxes are just too high now and his parents were pretty much forced to sell quite a few years ago. What a great place to grow up at though!Last but not least, our chauffeur! John paddles while Zech and I play, eat snacks and enjoy. I do help him out a bit too, but I have to watch our little monkey so he doesn't try and jump in the water.

TGIF

Thank Goodness it Is Friday!!! I haven't used this little saying for a long time, but today I am thankful the week is done and that it is FRIDAY!!

Working and coming home and working has been challenging to say the least. Before when I was working I could come home and just sit back, put my feet up and veg! Now, with an extremely active two year old, who has been right ticked off at me, things are a little, well ......different.

I thoroughly enjoyed my week of substitute teaching. Usually I am really nervous, have to plan absolutely everything and even write out bits and pieces of an introduction about myself, the grammar, the activity, etc. But this week I felt comfortable, really comfortable. I planned all of my lessons and even had to abort some of my plans as it was just too hard for the kids. Winged a few activities and made up games and things to keep them occupied when my time managment skills were lacking to say the least. Surprisingly I was not stressed or freaked out. I am not sure why it was so different this time, maybe it was because I have a bit of experience teaching ESL now, maybe it is because I am older and hopefully a little wiser or maybe it is because I have to entertain a two year old all the time now and I have just had to learn to go with the flow and not worry so much if plans didn't go as they were 'planned'! None the less it felt good, I loved teaching and I will really miss my students (they all fly home on Sunday).

I have often said that I need to record the funny things that kids say. I remember my Mom telling stories of some of the sayings the Grade two's would come up with and of course when teaching ESL there are some pretty funny little mix ups with words, meanings, etc. That is all part of learning another language. I remember learning Spanish and one night I was feeling rather brave and proud of my new found language training, so I boldly said good night to some friends in spanish. They all started laughing hysterically and I didn't understand how saying goodnight in Spanish would be so outrageously funny. Well it turns out, I mispronounced the one word and it completely turned my attempt of saying "good night" into "good buns" (to put it nicely). So the guy that I thought I was saying good night too, got a "good buns" instead! I worked very hard on my pronunciation after that! :o)

This week, one little boy had to stay behind (as punishment) and work on grammar. He wasn't understanding the grammar worksheets I had left behind for him, so one of the other teachers asked him where his dictionary was. The boy replied that it was with God. A little confused as to what he meant, the teacher kept prying a little and finally by the end of the conversation realized that he had left his dictionnary at church. The little boy couldn't remember the name of the building (church), so just told him that it was with God! :o)

We had another older student that told his teacher that he was "so engine"! He kept repeating; "teacher I am so engine today!" A little confused, the teacher asked him what he meant by engine and proceeded to explain what an engine was. The student thought that engine was the word for angry! We all had a good chuckle over that and everytime we see the student we ask him if he is "engine" today!! :o)

I am sad that this week is over, but glad too. I missed my little boy and he has been a little ticked off at me. Daddy was off a couple of days this week and got to spend time with him. He is such a Daddy's boy and they did all sorts of fun stuff together. He doesn't seem to miss me much (or at least that is what I think) and likes to ignore me when I come home or go to pick him up from my inlaws ( I didn't get the same response that John always gets when he comes home from work). However, every night this week, when things are winding down and I tell him how much I love him, he has always responded and told me that he loves me too (I "low") and gives me a nice hug and an "oh nice momma, nice momma"! That just melts my heart. He has said "I love you" before, but never as frequently!

I hope you all had a great week and are glad that it is FRIDAY!!!

Grateful Eight

This week I am grateful for:

1. Beach time and meeting new friends for Zech to play with. He just invites himself into the circle of kids and toys.

2. My little boy who has such a wonderful, kind, sensitive heart. We were at the park on Friday and some mentally challenged kids were there too. One older guy came and sat in the circle of kids and proceeded to fill his bucket with rocks. While all the other kids ignored him, Zech stood up and went over and started helping him. He leaned right up against him and started talking to him and helped him fill his bucket. It was so sweet and cute! (I do admit that I was a little apprehensive......if only I had the innocence and non biased that kids like Zech have at this age)

3. Time to check out the Farmer's Market in Kelowna.

4. Meeting the kids that I will be teaching this week. I went in to get my lesson plans and prepare for this week. Should be a fun week. I get to take them on field trips every single afternoon!

5. Family time at the beach with my wonderful husband and beautiful boy!

6. Caramel apples with smarties! (a special treat for mommy and Zech to share)

7. The Bible and the insight it offers! Sola Scriptura!

8. Good health.

Catching Up and a few pictures....

Two weeks ago my Mom, Aunt Laurel and cousins Tamara and Kayli stopped over night on their way home from the Island. It was good to see them and of course Zech was more than happy to have company and show off.

We brought out the Wii and had some fun. Of course there was another bowl-a-thon! Laurel came out as the bowling champion, but it was a close one. Mom was two points behind, Kayli was right up there in points too, and then there was Tamara. Tamara would get the award for greatest improvement and most diverse style!! (she's a really good boxer though) :o) It was a lot of fun and of course I got some pretty funny pictures. The one thing I noticed is that they all have a completely different Wii style of bowling and they were all pretty much consistent with this style, except for Tamara who was trying all sorts of methods!

I also wanted to share a few pictures of my little helper. Supper's (and any time in the kitchen) are interesting times for us. So now I try and involve him as much as possible. He also likes to help me bake. I have to be careful with the flour though. The first time he was helping me, I thought it would be a great idea to give him a spoon and let him help me stir the flour in, the next thing I knew we had flour everywhere! He had flour and dough chunks in his hair, caked in his eyebrows and well all over his face. These little mishaps serve as learning tools and makes me a little more wiser next time around. It also didn't take him long to figure out that the dough is actually really yummy!