Taken hold

I’ve been thinking about a lesson I was listening to a few weeks back over Philippians 3. The preacher remarked about the significance of being “taken hold of” by Christ. He shared how the only way we can hope to live the life that Jesus promised is if we live by His strength, if we’re “taken hold” by the strength He provides and not depending upon our own. He shared how he was “taken hold” by his wife and kids, that because of them he strove to be a better man than perhaps he’d be without them.

That idea really resonated with me. Perhaps because I’m recently a father for the second time, but the reality of who I am and who I want to be is on my mind a lot these days. I’m seeing the need for Christ in my life and ministry in ways that I haven’t before, and I’m wondering what if anything has the power to change me and my selfish heart --- and then I’m reminded by Paul’s words, that the answer doesn’t exist in my will power or ability to work harder, but only in being taken hold of by the strength and grace of the One by whom, and to whom, and through whom all things are made and held together. Amen!

Membership has its privileges

I got a gift certificate from a friend to a store here in town. They offer a discount to "members" of this store, but to purchase a membership would use up most of the gift certificate. I can still purchase items without the membership, but at a higher rate, of course. I don't want a membership, I just want to use my gift certificate.

Anyway, sorry for the rant. Here are a couple more photos. No membership fee required!


Isn't she lovely, isn't she wonderful...


The new family photo!

Day 2 at home...

It's been a couple days now that I've been a dad for the second time. I'm still getting used to that. It is really fun to have a baby girl. I was laughing with a friend yesterday about the nurse who was giving Hallie her first bath. She said to me, "Now, can you imagine giving her away at her wedding one day?" I was thinking to myself, "I can hardly imagine making it through middle school." I guess every parent feels this way at some point in time, or at least I have twice now, once about 20 months ago and again 2 days ago. Does that feeling ever go away? (I think I know that answer).

At the same time, though, there is this amazing peace and joy that has filled my heart and our home with little Hallie. Gabe is still clueless about how his life has changed, I guess for that matter, so am I. So we're chugging along as one happy no-so-little family. Kaley's mom is here and will be for a few more days, that has been awesome. I wish she could stay longer, but in a week or so other reinforcements will arrive (right mom?)!! Hope you all enjoyed the pictures from yesterday, I'll try to add a few more tomorrow.

Lord, thanks for Hallie. She is precious and wonderful, please help me to be the Father she needs and deserves.

She's home!

What an amazing few days it's been! Our baby girl is home and a healthy 10lbs 2ozs and 22 inches long! Way to go K! Here are a few pictures for you, hope you enjoy them! Love you all!!


The star of the show, Ms. Hallie Denise


Our own little grouch potato and the 2 leading ladies in my life!



Yep, I'm totally wrapped!