This song has been in my head all Christmas season. It is one of those songs that I love to sing while reflecting on God's goodness. Every year at this time, I read through the book of Luke. This year I find myself reflecting on the verses that say "Mary pondered these things in her heart." I wonder what it must have been like to be the mother of God, knowing one day that his life would end on the cross. Talk about a woman who had to surrender to her wishes and desires to God. Yet the Bible doesn't ever mention that she tried to runaway with Baby Jesus to protect her son's life nor does it say that she locked her son up in her home to keep him from harm. It does say though that she pondered these things in her heart often. I believe that she probably defined what it means to bloom where you are planted. She lived her life fully and served the King graciously, knowing full well what would happen, considering the book of Isaiah already told her the end story for the Messiah, her son.

So with all the hustle and bustle that tends to take over this time of year, I find myself reflecting more on God's goodness. I also in awe of Mary and her life of sacrifice. Her story is an inspiring one.

May you be blessed this Christmas season

This Time Last Year

I have been reflecting today on where I was this time last year. On this day, 365 days ago, my heart was heavy awaiting the news of Brooklyn Beaver's birth, a baby who had been diagnosed with Spina-Bifida just months before.


I wrote this verse down:

"Do not be anxious about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done." Phil 4:6


I prayed endurance for her parents wherever this journey takes them.
I prayed for the Lord to continuing blessing sweet Brooklyn with a miracle.

Over the past year, I have had many conversations with Brooklyn's mom that have left me crying tears of joy. I know God is alive and active because of what He has done in Brooklyn's life. Many things that the doctors said would not ever happen, Brooklyn has done. She is a hard worker and it I believe a large part of her success is due to the fact that Brooklyn will not give up until she has mastered whatever task is at hand.

Today on her first birthday, I am thankful for this little girl. I am thankful that God has answered many of our prayers over the past year. One of my favorite things in recent days is watching her crawl, standing ovations were happening on my side of the screen that day. I can't wait to continue to watch God's miracles happen in this girl.


And I end this special birthday post with Brooklyn's biggest fan, her mom. Oh how I love this MJ lovin mama. ( "I'm singing a Mich*el J*ck*s*n song!")


Thank you Lord for all that you have done & all that you are going to do!

Happy Birthday Elijah!

I can't believe that today you are four! It seems like yesterday I was rushing to your house to keep your big sisters while your mom and dad drove in sleet and snow to get to the hospital before you came.

You, sweet E are such a joy to be around! I love your spunk as well as your sweet spirit.

You make being being an aunt super fun!

I can't wait to see the plans God has for you unfold!

I love you dearly,

Aunt Sue Sue

Halfway There

I thought I had enough lights but one set is a total dud.

Thankfully I have a hair appointment tomorrow and it's located next to one of my favorite craft stores!

The goal for tomorrow is simple...finish my Christmas decorating so I can spend the weekend basking in the glow. :)

Tonight's movie: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

"This is what Christmas is all about...I'll park the cars, check the luggage...I will just be outside the rest of the season." Clark Griswold after the in-laws come to town

One of my favorite traditions of the Christmas season is watching Christmas in Rockefeller Center. Usually while the show is going on, I am decorating my Christmas tree or apartment. This year we purchased a new tree and it sat in the box most of the night and all my favorite little ornaments and ceramic Santa's are still packed in storage. I am hoping to pull them out today or tomorrow but to be honest, I am not in a huge rush this year.

Last night I took time to savor the slower pace, sit by the fire, sipping hot Apple Cider and waiting with anticipation of the lighting of the NYC tree. I am trying hard to get in the Christmas spirit. I look forward to decorating my tree and sitting in the glow of the lights but for now baby steps is all I can accomplish.

Please continue to pray for our family. My grandmother was admitted to a nursing home yesterday for rehab. I realize this is a blessing but my heart still aches for my grandparents who are facing the reality that life as they know it coming to a grinding halt. I will be honest and say I ache for myself too since Christmas is Granny and my season. So many of my holiday traditions are traditions I share with my grandmother. I am so thankful to have had many great memories with my grandparents especially during the holidays. God has blessed me with rich legacy of love and laughter.

So for now, sipping cider by the fire light with an unopened Christmas tree, watching one of my favorite holiday shows is just what I needed this year.

A Christmas Album MUST

I purchased this album a few weeks back because we are singing a few of the songs at church this month. I highly recommend this album if you are looking for something special to add to your collection

My favorite song is Emmanuel.

Seriously, if you are looking for a good Christian album to play during the Christmas season, this is the one for you!