tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29253131734252888152024-03-12T20:22:51.059-05:00Paige BarnesWife, Mom, Nurse Leader, Mentor, Influencer, and World Changer. Passionate about my profession, educating others, and working on myself daily to live a faithful life that leaves an honorable legacy. Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-64054365070117821502012-11-02T12:15:00.000-05:002012-11-02T12:15:18.265-05:00Breathing In...Today is no different than any other day. I just sent an email to my son's teachers. He is missing a lot of class lately due to his blood sugars. It is frustrating. What's more frustrating is I cannot really fix it. I just hate that. And even more frustrating is that I am still struggling with completely relying on God for my strength. <i>Really, Paige? After four years of Red having diabetes you are still struggling with just "letting go and letting God"?</i> I told my sweet husband today<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> "i need you to pray for me today. i am trying to feel defeated. i know i am not, but there</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> is a big part of me that wants to collapse in the floor and sob like a baby for my boy...</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> i am fiercely holding it together so as not to give the enemy a foothold".</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
His response was short and rich with wisdom, it usually always is. He said to me</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> "i will ... just remember this though ... the enemy only gets a foothold where you let him ... </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>it makes no matter whether he sees you cry or not ... plenty of examples in the bible </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>of "come aparts" that were certainly warranted that did not give the devil any kind of hold ...</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> you cannot be afraid to show emotion ... even sorrow ... David had fits of crazy laying in the floor crying all the time ... i love you"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Truth. Obedience and trust can be so difficult at times. I just want to be found faithful before God. And I worry so much that I am not "good enough" in this area. Thankful for God's grace. Breathing it in right now...every breath...in and out....</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Paige</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://2.gvt0.com/vi/14c_sCyQ2Lo/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/14c_sCyQ2Lo&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/14c_sCyQ2Lo&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br /></div>
Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-1829440543250315532012-10-10T09:49:00.000-05:002019-11-20T21:06:57.705-06:00Grief I had an epiphany a few weeks ago. It just hit me out of the blue while driving down the road. The <span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C3%BCbler-Ross_model" target="_blank">Kübler-Ross</a></span></span> stages of grief and the fact that if you have a child with a chronic illness you never complete the cycle. The theory behind the stages of grief is that a person will usually cycle through the stages during a time of intense grief, maybe even visiting some more than once, and eventually coming to the acceptance stage where the cycle will end. As a nurse, we are taught about the stages and how the normal human psyche responds in each stage. We are taught how to deal with patients and their families in each stage, how to help them cope and move through the stages until they reach the acceptance stage. My nursing education did not prepare me for having a child with a chronic illness. I have found myself in all of the stages, over and over, for four years. Here are the stages:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><u>Denial</u> - even now, when my son has many days in a row of almost perfect days my heart says, "did we get this wrong"?, "maybe the doctors missed the diagnosis since they are only human too". If I reach down below my mama heart, my nurse heart tells me the truth, that yes, the doctors got it right. He has all the signs and symptoms and his numbers tell the story. <i>But mama always trumps nurse.</i></li>
<li><u>Anger</u> - it was actually a couple of years into the diagnosis before I really dealt with this one. I kept telling myself that never could I be mad at God, because He is good. And then one day I found myself asking Him, why? And I had to just let it out before the Lord. He knew my heart, even that part that I had hidden so well that even I did not realize I was angry. But I was. And it broke my heart to think that I could be angry at God. But I told Him and he loved me anyway.</li>
<li><u>Bargaining</u> - I have deep in my spirit told the Lord that I will take on my son's illness. This was a stage I never thought I would go through either. I believe in the sovereignty of God. I believe in His providence. And yet, I found myself in this stage, almost begging God to take it away from him and give it me.</li>
<li><u>Depression</u> - I have never been a depressed person, but have had significant issues with it since the diagnosis. My husband has as well. Neither of us were depressed people before this time. It was just not something we struggled with. Now, I know the pain and sadness of depression and how it can affect a person's life and family. I know it all too well.</li>
<li><u>Acceptance</u> - This is where you finally accept the situation and move on. I think we do this most days! But every now and then, I find myself wandering back into one of the other stages. I wonder if I will ever be able to complete the acceptance stage and move on?</li>
</ul>
<div>
I am so thankful that God has been patient and loving with me as I travel back and forth between these stages. Life has never been the same since diagnosis day, I suppose it will never go back to what it was. So we try our best to live in acceptance and to trust and give God the glory in this thing and praying we honor Him in how we handle it all.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>~Paige</b></i></span></div>
Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-14635859738899788082012-10-05T08:53:00.001-05:002019-11-20T21:09:00.703-06:00<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-87978547182280353632012-09-26T16:47:00.001-05:002012-09-26T16:47:38.730-05:00Guest PostingI am honored to guest post on my cousin's blog today! Check it out!<br />
<a href="http://planforyoujones.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Plans For You</a><br />
<br />Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-79108949488730741062012-09-03T10:50:00.001-05:002012-09-03T10:50:45.253-05:00A Few of My Favorites for MondayToday is Monday. The start of a brand new week. We are rested up from the weekend and ready to tackle whatever comes our way. Today, I will share a few of my favorite resources to help you start your week out on the right foot. I like to say "work your day instead of your day working you". So here are few of my favorites to help you work your week instead of your week working you. Enjoy!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><b><i><u><span style="font-size: large;">Your Walk</span></u></i></b><br />
<a href="http://www.oneplace.com/" target="_blank">One Place </a><br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/" target="_blank">Bible Gateway</a><br />
<b><i><u><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><span style="font-size: large;">Your Marriage</span></u></i></b><br />
<a href="http://www.inspiredtoaction.com/wp-content/uploads/kat/InspiredToAction_Praying_For%20Your%20Husband.pdf" target="_blank">Praying for Your Husband</a> - <a href="http://inspiredtoaction.com/2012/09/my-humiliation-and-what-i-hope-you-can-learn-from-it/" target="_blank">Inspired to Action</a><br />
<a href="http://unveiledwife.com/" target="_blank">Unveiled Wife</a> - wonderful blog to encourage wives<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Your Children</u></i></b></span><br />
<a href="http://impressyourkids.org/celebrating-singing-delighting/" target="_blank">Impress Your Kids</a><br />
<a href="http://www.raisinggodlychildren.org/" target="_blank">Raising Godly Children</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Your Organization</u></i></b></span><br />
<a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/03/march-challenge-project-household_9757.html" target="_blank">Family Binder from iheartorganizing</a> - We use this daily!<br />
<a href="http://time-warp-wife.blogspot.com/2011/12/free-printable-daily-housekeeping.html" target="_blank">Chore Organizer</a> - I also use this routine. It helps make sure everything gets done!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Your Health</u></i></b></span><br />
<a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/" target="_blank">100 Days of Real Food</a><br />
<a href="http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/dr-ozs-100-weight-loss-tips" target="_blank">Dr. Oz 100 Weight Loss Tips</a><br />
<br />
<br />Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-23865196407653923452012-08-27T12:50:00.001-05:002012-08-27T12:50:03.558-05:0010 Words For Our ChildrenI have been reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Praying-Circles-around-Your-Children/dp/0310325501" target="_blank">Praying Circles Around Your Children</a> by <a href="http://markbatterson.com/" target="_blank">Mark Batterson</a>. It is a phenomenal book, and a must read for all parents. Mark gives creative ways to pray for your child's heart. As parents, we MUST pray for our children. Mark says, "make sure the Father hears about your children daily". One of the ideas he suggests in the book is to pray certain words over your children. Today, my husband and I sat down and prayerfully listed 10 words for each of our children. We are going to print them up, frame them, and begin to pray them daily. I am so excited about these words. Many I have already been praying for our children since they were born. And some that we purposefully felt we want God to shape in the heart of our children. I cannot wait to begin this journey of praying specific words for our children!<br />
<br />
<br />
<pre id="embed" style="background-color: #eeeeff; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21.33333396911621px;"></pre>
<pre id="embed" style="background-color: #eeeeff; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21.33333396911621px;"></pre>
<a href="http://www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/5606773/Matthew" title="Wordle: Matthew"><img alt="Wordle: Matthew" src="http://www.wordle.net/thumb/wrdl/5606773/Matthew" style="border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 4px;" /></a><img alt="Wordle: Kate2" src="http://www.wordle.net/thumb/wrdl/5606811/Kate2" style="border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 4px;" />Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-56767056050238442282012-08-23T10:17:00.001-05:002012-08-23T10:17:47.096-05:00Thursday - About my Son<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpGlx_CjJHPNw7MqnQLhhu1wl6XRi3OK17amcOESAb5UvLK3OMNA-Hn4m_3bW_YtIFv7KP9GSsv8S9Mhd6c-r7v1OKu-mkLwt1pCVHSt9KGZfMfJ6zjvEQeRsPdaIrCTpCNKi-UUHFlGM/s1600/photo+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpGlx_CjJHPNw7MqnQLhhu1wl6XRi3OK17amcOESAb5UvLK3OMNA-Hn4m_3bW_YtIFv7KP9GSsv8S9Mhd6c-r7v1OKu-mkLwt1pCVHSt9KGZfMfJ6zjvEQeRsPdaIrCTpCNKi-UUHFlGM/s320/photo+(4).JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tamene - Our Compassion Child in Ethiopia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Thursdays are link up days over at <a href="http://www.themobsociety.com/" target="_blank">The Mob Society</a>. I so love being the mother of a boy. My boy is amazing. He has always had such a tender heart of compassion for others. For six years now we have sponsored a child through <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">Compassion</a> who is the same age as our Red. Tamene is from Ethiopia. For six years the boys have written letters and sent pictures back and forth. It has been such a blessing to us! Matthew has always wanted to adopt Tamene. I tell him Tamene has parents who love him and he does not need to be adopted! Still, Matthew has always wanted to bring a child into our home and make him a part of our family. For several years, we have prayed about this. I am not sure we have really submitted in prayer over this the way God would have us, because we have not heard specifically from God in this area. In fact, my husband doesn't feel the same way we feel. And yet, the desire still weighs heavy in the heart of myself and our son. So, we yearn and we pray and we commit to submitting to God to give us clear answers on this. And I will cherish the tender heart my son has for others. God may he always seek to serve you for the least, last, lost, and lonely. May he not seek to exalt himself, but only to exalt you. Sweet Jesus, may he walk so closely to you that he gets covered in the dust you leave behind as you go.Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-77806188988892765042012-08-17T13:24:00.000-05:002012-08-17T13:24:14.905-05:00When Did Jesus Become Not Enough?<br />
After much prayer and examination of my life, I realize that I live a life of wanton excess. I have filled many parts of my life with things other than Jesus. Food for example. I live to eat instead of eating to live, and my choices are not pleasing to God or healthy for my body. I have allowed my heart to be more focused on my material possessions many times than on Jesus who had none. I have spent much time trying to make my house look beautiful while forgetting the many people around the world who are homeless. I have wasted money on stupid things when I should have given it away.<br />
<br />
I want it to stop.<br />
<br />
I do not want to live like that anymore. I want to live a life that simply says, "Jesus is my enough". If I lost everything else, then Jesus would always be enough. No matter what. Like Job, when it is given and taken away - Jesus is still enough. When did Jesus become not enough for us?<br />
<br />
To start this MAJOR life change, I am reading <a href="http://www.amazon.com/An-Experimental-Mutiny-Against-Excess/dp/1433672960" target="_blank">this book</a> and using it as a guide to stop rolling around in filthy excess and start living for Jesus alone. Not food, not money, not possessions. Just Jesus.<br />
<br />
I have set up a council of six people who are holding me accountable along the way. They each bring different gifts to the table and each love Jesus with everything they've got. The hubbs will be doing parts of this along the way with me. We start next week with food. We will be eating 7 foods with minimal seasonings allowed:<br />
<br />
Chicken - baked or grilled<br />
Spinach<br />
Bananas<br />
Eggs<br />
Apples<br />
Broccoli<br />
Whole Grain Bread<br />
<br />
We will drink only water. No sauces or condiments. No eating unless we are hungry. We will immerse ourselves in prayer and the Word. We can do this. Because Jesus is our portion and He fills our cup.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Paige</i></b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-59986636184348433922012-08-16T09:10:00.000-05:002012-08-16T09:10:43.721-05:00Let’s Hear it For the Boys! {#linkup day} - The MOB Society<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGfxDQ4DrfnBSzjp3-E74wwadeaC18ftC7tqeihP_MV7NE53UzRJ_8I0ZNjNhyVNWO9CLnhNpsqndHLtgmQC0Tin90EbzMbI01iL6LbhtrVujEKPiIoHlfyKFvMm6FCBtGWzFkCf9s2o/s1600/iphone+pictures+and+vids+185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGfxDQ4DrfnBSzjp3-E74wwadeaC18ftC7tqeihP_MV7NE53UzRJ_8I0ZNjNhyVNWO9CLnhNpsqndHLtgmQC0Tin90EbzMbI01iL6LbhtrVujEKPiIoHlfyKFvMm6FCBtGWzFkCf9s2o/s320/iphone+pictures+and+vids+185.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packing Diabetes Supplies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Ds572Ubqqdxr1soskn9I_e8XB_GssTVotquU73KVQCmwZ_OwRd8l_PIH57UxMdYTXMO9HUSjamijNY4LWVthWvC93H8tFcpOvT99VYkJcKEnzAsyZndy5NV8HNkaLOO6FauJkiA6Kmo/s1600/iphone+pictures+and+vids+183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Ds572Ubqqdxr1soskn9I_e8XB_GssTVotquU73KVQCmwZ_OwRd8l_PIH57UxMdYTXMO9HUSjamijNY4LWVthWvC93H8tFcpOvT99VYkJcKEnzAsyZndy5NV8HNkaLOO6FauJkiA6Kmo/s320/iphone+pictures+and+vids+183.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of donations!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When <a href="http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2011/04/alabama_tornadoes_interactive.html" target="_blank">deadly tornadoes</a> swept across our state in 2011, we felt helpless at first. Most of the upper part of the state was without power for days. Grocery stores were closed and so were pharmacies. Since my son has <a href="http://www.jdrf.org/index.cfm?page_id=103438" target="_blank">Type 1 diabetes</a>, we immediately thought of other diabetics who were suddenly without their life-saving supplies. We just started calling everyone we could think of and the donations started pouring in. Our family was humbled as we took supplies to several very hard hit areas. I am very proud of my son for stepping up, seeing a need, and doing what needed to be done. Our little family was blessed that day that God would use us in some small way!Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-26960138760789582252012-08-09T10:02:00.001-05:002012-08-09T10:02:06.359-05:00He is why I fight.<span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 19px; text-align: center;"><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsFmW7m_ywpYcKkO15ZW19_SN9gMUMjQpqbCiM5P70xWYWxUYDRDll07c6Vy-WWI6pNncki_8amT-BYvcK59eK4VEcr3Y39lB5Hjdg6h97-qhGwknHr3h2P34ySHylIqlAwM8ZjLI5RA/s1600/254568_2189392373671_6086741_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsFmW7m_ywpYcKkO15ZW19_SN9gMUMjQpqbCiM5P70xWYWxUYDRDll07c6Vy-WWI6pNncki_8amT-BYvcK59eK4VEcr3Y39lB5Hjdg6h97-qhGwknHr3h2P34ySHylIqlAwM8ZjLI5RA/s320/254568_2189392373671_6086741_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My hero, my son.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He is strong and beautiful.<br style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;" />He is smart and inquisitive.<br style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;" />He is funny and I love to hear him laugh.<br style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;" />He has his daddy's eyes and my cheeks.<br style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;" />He has a tender heart and a deep soul.<br style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;" />He loves his sister fiercely.<br style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;" />He is smart and imaginative.<br style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;" />He is worth more than I could ever imagine.<br style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;" />He is why I fight for a cure for diabetes.
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Please consider donating to our team walk to cure diabetes! <a href="http://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR/Walk-AL/Chapter-Alabama4000?team_id=52477&pg=team&fr_id=1778" target="_blank">JDRF</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Red was diagnosed with <a href="http://www.jdrf.org/index.cfm?page_id=103438" target="_blank">Type 1 diabetes</a> four years ago at the age of 6. <a href="http://www.childrenwithdiabetes.com/d_0n_100.htm" target="_blank">Diabetes</a> is a deadly <a href="http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/type-1/" target="_blank">disease</a> if not treated and taken care of properly. He takes insulin everyday to keep him alive. And he does not let anything slow him down.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
.</div>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-67239577680413293862012-08-08T09:44:00.001-05:002012-08-08T09:44:02.846-05:00First Day of School<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKOclMDOkwgw0diOfvaeVr5b7GeeFMkZ2wgyAFA3czriB1WLS72iO_sbgtRJuDoNoAcBhtwBHeQ8VAblx15CuxSgyiW2H0P8ciqjWa0wVIOPlQSGoTY0JglhE305u0xPjrsTROOCDh5S8/s1600/photo.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/AVvXsEjKOclMDOkwgw0diOfvaeVr5b7GeeFMkZ2wgyAFA3czriB1WLS72iO_sbgtRJuDoNoAcBhtwBHeQ8VAblx15CuxSgyiW2H0P8ciqjWa0wVIOPlQSGoTY0JglhE305u0xPjrsTROOCDh5S8/s320/photo.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Day of Fifth Grade</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Age 10 - Fifth Grade Favorites</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Color: Blue</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Food: Pizza</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Sport: Football</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Team: Auburn</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Song: Never Say Never by Justin Bieber</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">What I Want to be When I Grow Up: NFL Quarterback</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>The drop off went well. Lots of smiles and high fives as friends welcomed each other back to another school year. Teachers greeting students. Lunches packed and supplies gathered. And just one last hug. The mom whispered to her son, "I will miss you today. You will have a great day, and I will be praying for you". The mom felt her eyes get misty and swallowed hard so as not to embarrass her young man in front of his fifth grade friends. He grabbed her around the neck and grinned that shy grin he grins when he is really touched by something and whispered back, "I love you mom". And mom drives home with that aching in her heart that can only be explained as inexplicable pride of what a fine young man he is and bittersweet sadness as she lets another piece of him go. Freedom. One day my son, but let me hold you just a little longer.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-1706558767085982842012-08-02T09:27:00.001-05:002012-08-02T09:27:35.769-05:00let’s hear it for the boys! {#linkup day!} - The MOB Society<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU9nEmPTphK4zZIizw_b0EVepROH5OFKNaXz48lZn8Q3RtYxMm8x5NyGMzV_2kvu9I7UkFJYZBhBh-BnBVdOd4ucksD70C-UNIced9OKWqQYwF2g-u67jZ54mVEjUWDMiSA5bD8xSYsQw/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU9nEmPTphK4zZIizw_b0EVepROH5OFKNaXz48lZn8Q3RtYxMm8x5NyGMzV_2kvu9I7UkFJYZBhBh-BnBVdOd4ucksD70C-UNIced9OKWqQYwF2g-u67jZ54mVEjUWDMiSA5bD8xSYsQw/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></div>
This summer has been a precious time of working through the Bible with my son (age ten). I have always prayed that my children would come to know the Lord at an early age. Thankfully, my son did. He and I have been working through a wonderful book called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Purple-Book-Foundations-Disciples/dp/0310936004" target="_blank">The Purple Book</a>. It has been a wonderful experience for us to study the word and pray together. It works through the basics of faith and then expounds upon that. Henry Ward Beecher said, "The mother's heart is a child's classroom". I pray that my children will know my heart on this, and that is that they will desire Jesus above all else. So I have spent this summer taking my spiritual leadership of my children up a notch. I see them growing and learning in the Lord and it blesses my heart so much. I pray that my heart will always be a classroom in which for them to learn. Lessons of love and peace and joy. Lessons of reaching out and serving others. Lessons that teach them that sitting at Jesus' feet and soaking in His truth is a treasure they will carry with them forever. So, I will continue to pour myself out as an offering to the Lord. Praying that it will be pleasing to Him. And also praying that my children will see.<br />
<br />
<b><i><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: x-large;">Paige</span></i></b>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-82356573909040918092012-07-30T08:54:00.002-05:002012-07-30T09:00:55.943-05:00Reactions of the FatherEveryone reading this probably has been watching some part of the Olympics. I have never been an athlete myself, but I love watching the games. It amazes me to watch these people who have worked so hard for so long execute these amazing feats of physicality. I particularly enjoy the women's gymnastics. These young ladies never cease to amaze me with what they can do. Last night I so enjoyed watching Aly Raisman's parents watching her. In fact the whole world was watching them. They were so involved in what she was doing that they had a physical reaction to her every move. It looked crazy, but they were completely oblivious to anyone around them. Just in the moment. They could not do it for her, but they wanted so bad for her to do it well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/1Ide4AT6Wd8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
I think of this and can't help but think about Jesus. Does he do that as he watches us on this crazy journey called life? I can just picture him twisting and turning as I struggle to make it through the tough situations. I see him running to God and crying out on my behalf from time to time. Does he put his hands over his eyes when I am missing the mark? He knows the choices I will choose, but looking away to spare himself something as his heart breaks. Does he cheer out loud when I get it right, calling the angels over and saying, "She did it! I am so proud"!<br />
<br />
It brings my heart such joy to think of Jesus this way. The video of Aly Raisman's parents last night embedded this image of Jesus into my mind. I hope I never forget it. We can be sure that Jesus is right here with us, hoping and praying we get it right. He runs to God on our behalf. He sings over us. It is to our Father's glory that we live out our lives well. I pray this brings you as much hope and joy today as it has brought me. Let's keep running this race we are in, never giving up. Always holding on to Jesus, until he returns or calls us home.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Paige</i></b></span>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-13142269777869723662012-07-27T08:40:00.000-05:002012-07-27T08:40:04.759-05:00ClaimingI had all these plans for us this summer. Nothing extra fancy, just activities close to home that did not cost too much money so that we could spend time together this summer. Just me and him. My boy and I. And then June got so busy because of a few things and that set July back. I purposely worked my July around having the time to be here for him, and because of events in June, none of my plans for July have gone as planned. None. And it makes me sad. I just want to cry at the way this month has turned out. So many things that I do not have control over. I have been wishing for August because August will be better. And yet, August brings the reality that school starts again. And there goes the time I had planned with him. And he will be in the fifth grade. He is growing up. I am trying to be everything he needs me to be. And yet, most days I feel like a failure.<br />
<br />
I know the enemy is spending a lot of time telling me this. Because a few months ago God spoke a couple of things very clearly to me. And I have been listening. I have been praying and spending time in the word, and setting boundaries. And the enemy has continued to step up his game. After talking with a dear friend last night who I consider a spiritual mentor, I realized that some of these problems may not be because of me. They may be someone else's issues to deal with that the enemy has decided to use against me and my family. Isn't that nice? Well, if the enemy can step up his game, then so can I. You see, I was bought with a price. The One who gave himself for me will not let me fall. I have the mind of Christ and I do <b>NOT</b> have to buy into the lies that enemy sees fit to throw at me day after day. So I have a plan. One that involves anointing with oil and praying with heavy <b>BOLDNESS</b>. After all, we have all authority and right to approach the throne of grace with boldness. And then the most amazing thing happens. King Jesus himself intercedes on my behalf to God the father. This just blows me away. I am claiming the following verses for myself, Cole, and the kids in the mighty name of Jesus:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="text Titus-2-11" id="en-TNIV-29904" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </sup><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_55870730"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">For the grace <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-29904A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup>of God has appeared <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-29904B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>that offers salvation to all people.</span></a></span><span class="text Titus-2-12" id="en-TNIV-29905" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=titus%202:11-12&version=TNIV" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </sup>It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-29905D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup>and to live self-controlled, <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-29905E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup>upright and godly lives <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-29905F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup>in this present age - Titus 2:11-12</span></a></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="text Titus-2-12" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=hebrews%204:16&version=NLT" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.- Hebrews 4:16</span></a></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=hebrews%2012:14&version=TNIV" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Make every effort to live in peace with everyone </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-30211A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">and to be holy; </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-30211B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">without holiness no one will see the Lord. - Hebrews 12:14</span></span></a></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James1:19-21&version=TNIV" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span class="text Jas-1-19" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">My dear brothers and sisters, <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-30270A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup>take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-30270B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>and slow to become angry, </span><span class="text Jas-1-20" id="en-TNIV-30271" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">because our anger <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-30271C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup>does not produce the righteousness that God desires.</span><span class="text Jas-1-21" id="en-TNIV-30272" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </sup>Therefore, get rid of <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-30272D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup>all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-30272E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup>which can save you. - James 1:19-21</span></span></a></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20peter%201:6-7&version=NASB" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span class="text 1Pet-1-6" id="en-NASB-30381" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">In this you greatly rejoice, even though now <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-30381B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>for a little while, <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-30381C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup>if necessary, you have been distressed by <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-30381D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup>various trials,</span><span class="text 1Pet-1-7" id="en-NASB-30382" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </sup>so that the <sup class="footnote" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="[<a href="#fen-NASB-30382b" title="See footnote b">b</a>]">[<span style="color: #b37162;"><span style="vertical-align: top;">b</span></span>]</sup> <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-30382E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup>proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-30382F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup>even though tested by fire, <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-30382G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></sup>may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at <sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-30382H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></sup>the revelation of Jesus Christ - 1 Peter 1:6-7</span></span></a></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I want my life to lived for my Father's glory. Not mine. Even the trials and tests and difficult times. I will choose to take this sifting and let whatever is there that is not good be sifted out. And give God the glory no matter what.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Paige</b></i></span></div>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-4696613945605448052012-07-26T10:47:00.000-05:002012-07-26T10:47:54.598-05:00Pushing Past Perfect I have always been a perfectionist. I am the kind of person that thinks I should already be great at something the very first time I try it. I mean, how is that even possible? The stress I have put on my own self over the years far outweighs any that has been placed upon me by anyone else. I have lived a life in the small town spotlight, always involved in everything. Always that girl that "had it together". And for the most part I did have it together all those years. Then something happened. I believe it is called life. After several years of marriage and two kids I woke up and realized that I did not have it all together anymore. What happened?! So, I spent many months grieving the loss of my old self. You know the one who was not really living in reality because she had it so together. (Insert sarcastic smile and rolling eyes). Then I realized something. It's ok to not always have it together. It seems to be on those days that I rely on Jesus so much more for the simple things like breathing in and out. And you know what? I think Jesus is ok with that. He does not expect us to have it all together before we come to Him. In fact, I think He honors a humble and broken heart sitting at His feet more than me trying to pretend I have it all together when my heart says "I am struggling". The thing is, <i>He knows my heart. </i>And for that I am so thankful. So, no more polly perfect. How about polly improving? Polly trying her best? How about pushing past perfection and settling in for truth and humbleness at the feet of Jesus. I think He can work with that. And I want to be used for His glory.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Paige</i></b></span></div>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-36890730180080041732012-07-25T22:50:00.000-05:002012-07-25T22:50:53.190-05:00A Strong CordTonight I got the immense honor of leading worship with my husband. He has been the protector of my heart for over 11 years now. Just the other day we realized that it was 20 years ago that we first met! We have not always had it all together, but we have always tried to honor God with our marriage. I am so thankful that God is our foundation. The Bible tells us, <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ecclesiastes%204:12&version=TNIV" target="_blank">"Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken".</a> God designed marriage to be more than just a partnership between husband and wife, but a union of man and woman who submit under God's authority and seek to worship and serve Him. Watching my sweet husband tonight as he was singing praises reminded me of one of the reasons I love him the most - because he loves Jesus.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Eccl-4-12" style="font-size: 16px; position: relative;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3G3JhYE-TUJ8AJXNFUXxdVzivcYPUDJS0ofjfdOpU3GBLQp-VDeZH2VCAMW7Atb3MDwBLHFeOvA76iIQqUg-7vTLQh3T2aa_z6dqnRv_db9C7g1McLWGrVN5F1abPWOYXlY7nqP9yYM/s1600/599901_4380663874089_1227858004_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3G3JhYE-TUJ8AJXNFUXxdVzivcYPUDJS0ofjfdOpU3GBLQp-VDeZH2VCAMW7Atb3MDwBLHFeOvA76iIQqUg-7vTLQh3T2aa_z6dqnRv_db9C7g1McLWGrVN5F1abPWOYXlY7nqP9yYM/s320/599901_4380663874089_1227858004_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span class="text Eccl-4-12" style="position: relative;"><b><i>Paige</i></b></span></span></div>
Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-84784349994298388702012-07-22T00:00:00.000-05:002012-07-22T00:08:58.864-05:00Never The Same <i> It was a crisp, clear fall morning circa November 1995. The halls were filled with the hustle and bustle of teenagers shoving books into lockers, and couples trying to steal a few more minutes of hand holding before class began. I was a sophomore. Fifteen years old and completely naive about most everything. The sound was sudden. Pop! Pop!Pop! I thought someone had set off fireworks in the hallway. Until the screaming began. Then students were running everywhere. The head football coach began screaming, "get out of the hall"! My friends and I ran inside the side door of the auditorium, just as a shot was fired about two feet directly in front of us. That bullet hit a classmate in the throat. The say she died on the way to the hospital. Two other teachers were shot, one fatally. The rest of us were left living in a world where we would never again feel safe.</i><br />
<br />
For years (about 12 to be exact) I suffered from post traumatic stress syndrome. I still struggle at times. While I would never compare my experience that fall to the recent theater shooting in Colorado, I do feel led to share a few thoughts on the subject.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>The people in the theater that night will never be the same</b>. A person does not go through something that terrible without changing. They will grieve, many forever. Some may never get over it. Some may never feel safe in public again. Many will need therapy. Some will need medication. All of the survivors will feel that a part of them died that night. </li>
<li> <b>Many of them will seek answers they may never find.</b> In my situation, there was such inaccurate speculation especially by the mainstream media that we never really knew anything. Eventually, the guy who did the shooting at my school spoke and told his side of the story. And yet, answers to the question of why still never came. What drives a person to do that? Why did he target innocent and random people? Why did no one see any warning signs? The list could go on and on. </li>
<li> <b>The victims of this senseless tragedy need our prayers.</b> Lots of them. For a long time. So do their families and friends and the community.</li>
<li> <b>The shooter needs our prayers</b>. Something is wrong when a person commits such a tragic crime. Jesus says, But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,Matthew 5:43-45</li>
</ul>
<br />
Come, Lord Jesus, come.Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-48467850207330780792012-07-19T08:00:00.000-05:002012-07-19T10:17:39.472-05:00Advice to a Young WifeYesterday completely out of the blue, God placed me in a position to counsel a young wife and share the gospel with her. She, who I barely know, shared some struggles she is having. She has been married about a year and loves her husband, but she told me that she just doesn't know if there is hope for their future. She told me she is "religious" and believes in God and does not believe in divorce. After only a few short minutes of listening to her, I could tell that God is tugging at her. As she continued to pour out her heart, it was clear to me that she and her husband need one thing. Jesus. I found myself wondering when in the world did I get in a position of having wisdom in marriage, but after eleven years, we have learned a few things. (Thank goodness)! As I sat there and listened to her, I prayed that God would give me some sound, godly advice to pass on to her. He reminded me of some of the things I have learned in the past eleven years of being a wife.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>I need to love my husband in different ways</b>. Not just with <i>eros</i>, or romantic love, and not just with <i>agape</i>, or unconditional love. But also with <i>phileo</i> love, or love like a friend. He is my friend, my lover, and the protector of my heart.</li>
<li><b>Never go to bed angry.</b> My sweet Maw Maw used to tell me this as I was growing up. I remember one night very early in our marriage when we did not even have things to "fight" about. We had a disagreement over something and my husband took his pillow and blanket and went to the couch. I proceeded to pitch a hissy fit and we had an argument over why he would think he needed to sleep on the couch (Could it be because I was pitching a fit?!). Then we realized we could not even remember what we were arguing about in the first place and decided it must have been trivial anyway. That night, we both promised never to go to bed angry.</li>
<li><b>Flood him with grace</b>. Ladies, we are not going to change our men into perfect little robots who pick up their underwear out of the bathroom floor and always wash the dishes when we expect them to. It would behoove us to realize this and allow a little grace about some things. This works both ways. We are not perfect and we are not always right (gasp). And we appreciate when we are shown grace.
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ephesians%204:32&version=TNIV" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Be kind and compassionate to one another, </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-29289A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup><span style="font-size: 16px;">forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.</span></a> - Ephesians 4:32</span></i></li>
<li><b>I am not my husband's mother.</b> He is a grown man, and I am not responsible for raising him, therefore I do not have to nag him about everything. I may not always agree with him and his decisions all the time, but I choose to support him. And sometimes let him make the choices, even if I have "a better way or easier way". Not that I don't share my heart and ideas, but I think it is important to give our guys room to be who they were created to be - our protectors, and defenders. (Not that I can't defend myself, but sometimes it is really awesome to let my husband ride in and save my day).</li>
<li><b>We are in this together.</b> We are partners. One heart, one soul, and one body essentially. When I hurt, he hurts. When he is struggling, I am struggling right along with him. No matter what this world throws at us, we are better prepared to handle it together. <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ecclesiastes%204:9-10&version=TNIV" target="_blank"> <i>Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift the other up. - Ecclesiastes 4:9,10</i></a></span><span class="indent-1" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"></span></li>
<li><b>Seek first - Jesus.</b> For Him to be the center, and the head, and our counselor, and teacher. It is only because He first loved us that we can love each other. I say let us give credit where credit is due. If I seek my husband more than I am seeking Jesus, then I am missing the mark. I thought when I married that my husband would be what finally filled all my needs and longings and desires. I was wrong! Only Jesus can fill every desire and need we have. While my husband is an amazing human being and a godly man who loves me dearly, he has and will let me down. Just like I have and will let him down. When we feel unfulfilled, no matter what we are trying, we need to realize we are missing Jesus. We cannot escape that. We were woven and spun to long for Jesus.<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew%206:33&version=TNIV" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 16px;">But seek first his kingdom </span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-TNIV-23316A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup><span style="font-size: 16px;">and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. - Matthew 6:33</span></a></i></span></li>
</ul>
<div>
Would you please join me in praying for my new friend and all the wives out there that feel there is no hope for their marriage? Also please pray for me as I continue to share the love of Jesus with this young lady. Pray that she will surrender her heart to God!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #ffe599; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Paige</i></b></span></div>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-36682177203282223412012-07-17T19:07:00.001-05:002012-07-17T19:07:36.110-05:00Next season please! You know there are just some seasons in life where you spend a lot of time wondering when this season will end and the next one will begin. I am there. Sigh. I don't want to be here. I am not the most patient person in the world, so waiting and watching and savoring is sometimes difficult for me. I am a Martha. No doubt about it. When you see me I am mostly likely fixing, planning, or organizing several things at once. I used to do this flawlessly. What happened? I can't seem to keep all the balls in the air anymore. Recently as I have spent time pouring out my heart before the Lord and really straining to listen, I have heard Him say over me to <i>"do less, and be more"</i>. I am trying. Lord help me, I am trying. And all the while, resting like the Lord has told me to do, I am struggling with immense feelings of guilt over my being and not doing. I am also a little frustrated that I do not seem to be as graceful at this being thing as Mary was when she sat at Jesus' feet. Isn't it just like the enemy to rear his ugly head when God is trying to do a good work? You see, in all of this sitting before the Lord, I know He is preparing me for something big. Something radical. He told me so. He said over me to <b> <i>"quit playing and starting living like you mean it"</i></b>. Ouch. That stung a little. <div>
Four years ago our lives changed dramatically overnight. Our oldest son (our only child at the time) was diagnosed with a chronic illness that requires attention multiple times a day, everyday...forever. We have not slept an entire night through since. I look at my husband and I see the strain this has taken on our relationship with each other, our family dynamics, and our relationship with God. In this midst of this God surprised us with a baby girl. She kept me sick my entire pregnancy and on bed rest. She came early and spent the first two weeks of her life in the neonatal intensive care unit. She keeps me on my toes and in the tissues crying to the Lord for help daily on how to raise her. We also have a family member who now lives with us and some crazy financial blows that have hit. Did I mention I want this season to end? And yet, God is speaking to me that He is preparing to take us to a place with Him that will blow our minds. My husband and I are actually praying about a couple of very specific things we feel God may be leading us toward. Some days lately, I feel like I don't know much. And this afternoon, I was reminded of this song (courtesy my iPod). No matter what I don't know, there is one thing I do know. When I feel alone and frustrated and wish someone would encourage me, I will remember this song.<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>One Thing I Know by Selah</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Songwriters: <span style="background-color: white;">WHITMORE, JASON ALAN / LINDSEY, JOE</span></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Something in your eyes I see</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Reminds me of what used to be</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">When I was still uncertain of the truth</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Sleepless nights that turn to days</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Alone inside an endless maze</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Counting on someone to see me through</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span class="b-lyrics-from-signature" style="color: white; font-family: Arial; line-height: 1.5em; text-align: left;">[ Lyrics frome_thing_i_know.html ]</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Chorus:</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">If there's one thing I know, </span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">You are never left alone</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">'Cause You can always call on Jesus' name</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">If there's one thing I pray, </span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">It's Jesus helps you find a way</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">To make a change and listen to Your heart</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">God will take away your pain</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">If you choose to let it go</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">If there's one thing I know</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">How can I convince your heart</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">His light can find you in the dark</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">And only He can make your blind eyes see</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">For if we speak of lost things found</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Of lives that have been turned around</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Then tell me who knows better, child, than me?</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">I would never stake my life on any lesser thing</span><br style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-family: Arial; text-align: left;">Than the cross of Christ where he gave His life to ease my suffering.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Source:
<a href="http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/s/selah/one_thing_i_know.html">http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/s/selah/one_thing_i_know.html</a> </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><br style="text-align: left;" /></i></span></div>
</div>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-67324525240365176342012-07-16T09:19:00.001-05:002012-07-16T09:19:55.069-05:00MOB Society Blog Hop - Welcome!Good morning boy moms! Welcome to my humble blog. My name is Paige, and my blog is used to encourage and inspire others. I am an ER nurse, a worship leader, and a teacher of nurses. I also mentor and counsel teenage girls and young women. Blessed does not begin to describe my life! I am wife to a wonderful, godly man who has had my heart for 11 years. Together we have two amazing children, The Princess who is 2 1/2. She is curious, independent, and determined. She has the brightest smile and loves to snuggle. You will often find her singing "You are my sunshine". We are also blessed with Red, our son, who is 10. He is compassionate and has a tender heart. 4 years ago he was diagnosed with <a href="http://www.jdrf.org/index.cfm?page_id=103438" target="_blank">Type 1 diabetes</a>. It has been a wild ride since then! He is so brave and strong. He is my hero. He is an amazing kid, an amazing son. I know he will be an amazing man someday. That is my responsibility - to teach and shape and mold him into a godly young man. This makes me SO thankful for <a href="http://www.themobsociety.com/" target="_blank">The Mob Society</a>! You moms completely understand and are right there with me! Here a a few of the things that make my boy tick:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.lego.com/en-us/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Lego Blocks</a> - he has loved them since he was very young. We have tons! The kits are usually for kids who are a bit older, but they have recently started making kits for the younger ones. We have bought two (girl!) kits for my 2 1/2 year old daughter.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.starwars.com/" target="_blank">Star Wars</a> - we have the costumes, light sabers, and even a Darth Vader bank that plays a (very loud) song when you drop money into it.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Sports - only recently has he decided he likes this. He played soccer a few years ago and had a blast. Now he is playing basketball and practicing regularly. He will also start playing Pop Warner football this fall. (Pray for me)!</li>
</ul>
<div>
I am so excited to meet a bunch of new moms! Please leave me a comment so I can visit your blog! </div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<script src="http://www.linkytools.com/thumbnail_linky_include.aspx?id=154485" type="text/javascript">
</script></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Paige</i></b></span></div>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-58844693141315691432012-07-15T21:25:00.001-05:002012-07-15T21:25:58.027-05:00SureMy daughter, the princess, has a nightly bedtime routine that consists of mommy or daddy laying beside her bed and holding her hand until she falls asleep. It does not usually take long for her to get settled in and drift off to dreamland. During those times in the dark and quiet I usually find myself praying over her. She is a vivacious and fiercely determined little girl. She has marched to the beat of her own tune since conception. I pray so many things for her. Mostly for God to help me be what she needs me to be! In those times, she will sometimes let go of my hand. I stay at my post because I know she is not yet sleeping. Every now and then, I will see her sweet little hand reach out through the rails of her crib. She is reaching for me, to be sure I am still there. If I do not immediately grab her hand in mine, she will wave wildly until I do. She never speaks or cries, just reaches. I cannot help but feel that this is me so many times with God. I know He is there because He said He would be and I can trust Him. But sometimes, I just need to reach out to be sure of Him. Thankfully, He is always right there to take my hand in His and I can be comforted and have peace. Just like when I take Princess K's hand. She relaxes and drifts off to sleep knowing mommy is there taking care of things for her. <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%204:8&version=CEV" target="_blank">Psalm 4:8</a> assures us that we can slumber in peace. Jesus in always on watch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-p2hwaQTy2MtRpJ2Zm4cnuFFhK5x6UcA9e4HoJc2Tv6tAFpAxdCoP11dlMNtn__lnWT_vODt_E9PgJGwYvasqOv2aUqnNJQzNPy8j2WrCEVuVM2rwh5Bt-MWw18ECgw2AUywsNN1yvZU/s1600/tumblr_l77vepIv5A1qakgtmo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-p2hwaQTy2MtRpJ2Zm4cnuFFhK5x6UcA9e4HoJc2Tv6tAFpAxdCoP11dlMNtn__lnWT_vODt_E9PgJGwYvasqOv2aUqnNJQzNPy8j2WrCEVuVM2rwh5Bt-MWw18ECgw2AUywsNN1yvZU/s320/tumblr_l77vepIv5A1qakgtmo1_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Sweet dreams,<br />
<br />
<span style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Paige</i></b></span>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-38079641357449677622012-07-12T08:45:00.000-05:002012-07-12T08:45:36.439-05:00let’s hear it for the boys! {#LinkUp Day!}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieqi7kV9PaEABSCaJ0V-pzUV1xxi6KAtTtu8lXnqQu10zCYMaJq9DsWSvf9tD7dFpTQ3JRZbgHDwVIMXmWM6NAt6gf1cJlKODrExbkNXAIRdZmnFySxzUQNyepBirNt-BS7Q1GEx59p8M/s1600/IMG00401-20091008-2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieqi7kV9PaEABSCaJ0V-pzUV1xxi6KAtTtu8lXnqQu10zCYMaJq9DsWSvf9tD7dFpTQ3JRZbgHDwVIMXmWM6NAt6gf1cJlKODrExbkNXAIRdZmnFySxzUQNyepBirNt-BS7Q1GEx59p8M/s320/IMG00401-20091008-2024.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I love <a href="http://www.themobsociety.com/" target="_blank">The Mob Society</a>! They are a wonderful resource for mothers of boys. Today is link up day to share a funny picture or story of your boy(s). My picture today is the first time Matthew got to hold his baby sister. It was about 2 weeks after she was born before he could hold her. She was sick and had to be in the NICU. One night, the NICU nurse cheated a little bit and let him hold her. I cried, my husband cried, and even the nurse cried! It was a precious moment. Kate is 2 1/2 now and has the most amazing big brother!<br />
<br />
Proud mother of one amazing boy,<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i style="background-color: white;">~Paige</i></b></span><br />
<br />Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-52016400207670618292011-10-27T21:46:00.001-05:002011-10-27T21:51:20.480-05:00Matthew's Baptism-2011<div><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4d6a63304d6a59794e7a453d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img style="border: currentColor;" alt="Click to play this Smilebox greeting" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4d6a63304d6a59794e7a453d0d0a.jpg" width="386" height="303" /></a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/?partner=smilebox&campaign=blog_snapshot" target="_blank"><img style="border: currentColor;" alt="Create your own greeting - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" width="386" height="46" /></a></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><a href="http://www.smilebox.com/greetings.html" target="_blank">Free digital ecard</a> customized with Smilebox</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />We are so thankful to each person who has taken the time to help lead Matthew to Jesus. The very first song I ever sang to him was "God is so good". This has proven true time and time again for us. There is no greater gift than to know our sweet boy has Jesus in his heart.<br /><br />~Paige</div>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-34730130224320545542011-03-07T17:03:00.002-06:002011-03-07T17:06:41.629-06:00Call To Prayer For Our Sons<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.brookemcglothlin.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/21DaysButton.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.brookemcglothlin.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/21DaysButton.png" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Please join me <a href="http://www.brookemcglothlin.com/2011/03/21-days-of-prayer-for-sons-challenge-sign-up/">here</a> as I participate in a 31 day challenge in the month of April to pray specifically for our sons!<br /><br /><img src="file:///C:/Users/pbarnes/AppData/Local/Temp/moz-screenshot.png" alt="" />Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2925313173425288815.post-38175054936470935572010-10-12T23:36:00.004-05:002010-10-13T00:01:01.291-05:00Third Grade and First BirthdaysIt's been MANY months since I've updated this blog. Matthew started third grade and is playing soccer and in Cub Scouts. His daddy is his cub master. Those of you who know my husband well are now smiling and maybe even chuckling at that. :)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1l5QxfPePDt3l6O-h2aoe2zv-2wEw7YjpMvERdXPsL79GX_Luz2dETlch6uLZti62RuXeayEnCr82UP6XYA30mISPXCq_gtfMA1kuPs13_9EBlKZg1hg2zGpm6AXn_tzs3asu-YB4OQ/s1600/End+of+school+and+Summer+2010+015.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1l5QxfPePDt3l6O-h2aoe2zv-2wEw7YjpMvERdXPsL79GX_Luz2dETlch6uLZti62RuXeayEnCr82UP6XYA30mISPXCq_gtfMA1kuPs13_9EBlKZg1hg2zGpm6AXn_tzs3asu-YB4OQ/s320/End+of+school+and+Summer+2010+015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527386051308288274" border="0" /></a><br />I am still working at the hospital on the weekends. I love my job, but we have very little family time right now. My health has not seemed to return back to normal since the baby was born. I have been in the hospital once and very sick several times. I am also having a lot of pain right now. After seeing my doctor, it seems that I am physically and emotionally exhausted. I am praying about how God would have me deal with this. I know that life is not merely about surviving, but about living to the fullest. I am praying and trying to sink that deep into my spirit.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHVmsvYsj4UKgofFtUqyOy3QgfumiE2YeTsbqZYJSRDZ8kBjeaPulZAxxayU5aOazZrTzM586_84Ks-e8aJxAoPG5ORPQp9z8AZxsoyaJeIdv_wkOpn56RYPwvdVAPAWwx4ILj50OA6Wo/s1600/Kate's+First+Birthday+152.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHVmsvYsj4UKgofFtUqyOy3QgfumiE2YeTsbqZYJSRDZ8kBjeaPulZAxxayU5aOazZrTzM586_84Ks-e8aJxAoPG5ORPQp9z8AZxsoyaJeIdv_wkOpn56RYPwvdVAPAWwx4ILj50OA6Wo/s320/Kate's+First+Birthday+152.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527388031775908034" border="0" /></a>Just a few weeks ago our sweet Kate turned 1! It doesn't seem like a whole year since she came into this world a month early giving us quite a scare with initial trouble breathing and then intestinal blockage. Through much prayer, she came home safe and sound nine days after she was born. She is the light of our life!<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Our dear Kate, </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~At the age of one, you are busy walking and babbling. </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~You say "ma ma", "da da", "bu ba", and "na na". </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~Your favorite things are your lovey blanket with the "B" on it, watching "Jack's Big Music Show", your Little People Nativity Set, and books.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~You are eating all kinds of things like fruit bars and rice. You love Rosie's mexican rice!</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~You like to pull the big kitty's tail. He doesn't seem to mind!</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~You are sleeping very well all night in your crib, but you wake up every morning at 6:30 am.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~When you get sleepy you pull on your ears.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~You get a little jealous when mommy or daddy holds or plays with big brother.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">You are keeping us busy and we are loving every minute of it. Happy Birthday our sweet Kate!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~Paige</span>Paige Barneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342294361713995560noreply@blogger.com0