tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71833656628698654432024-03-13T03:07:55.086-04:00Holcombe Happenings37 years of growing and learning to be a great big family!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.comBlogger300125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-28451174060379815512016-11-13T22:45:00.000-05:002016-11-14T08:40:24.485-05:00Blessed be the name...<br />
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Never have I seen an amazing group of people come together like I have over this past year. Love being poured out for a newly wed couple facing a very scary time during a health crisis.Prayers being said for healing and provision as they face a road unknown.<br />
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November 2015 ...Our son in-law was diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Our community has bound together as we have all jumped in to support Jason and Sarah through love and prayer.<br />
Our son Jordan ran a full marathon in October in honor of Jason. His commitment to train and run this 26 mile race, was all for love. Training that took place as he continued to work as a 4th grade teacher and welcoming baby #2 just a few weeks before the race. Watching the teamwork of Jordan and his wife Kayla, as she lovingly supported him through this act of love. Her mom and dad joining team Jordan,as they too poured into this race with love and support. Countless people giving to the Go fund me account that was set up for Jason and endless hours of prayers said before our Father for endurance and strength for both Jordan and Jason... No amount of thank yous will ever be enough!<br />
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We have a hashtag #runforjason to document the journey that has taken place. Also a Facebook page "Run For Jason", where updates have been documented. We as a family are taking a stand beside our son and showing him we are in this for the long haul and we will be cheering him on!<br />
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I am thankful for Jason's mom and dad who have been a rock for Sarah and Jason! The support they have been for our daughter...no words of thank you will ever be enough. My prayer is that they would feel the power and love of Jesus.That He would hear the cry of this mother and father's heart for healing for their son.Thank you for sharing Jason with us! He has changed our family for the better!<br />
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Yesterday our family gathered at the Hope House for a time of Praise and worship. Kelley and I set back in awe of the beauty of our children as they gathered to show their love and support for their sister and her husband. Today Jason entered the hospital to begin his marathon. He and a team of Emory doctors will work together to rid his body of this awful disease. Please pray for Jason as he will be given very strong doses of chemo to prepare his body for the stem cell transplant. Pray for endurance and strength to keep his eyes above the waves and on the one who holds him in the palm of His hand...Jesus!<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/karen.m.holcombe/videos/10207684349923078/" target="_blank">Blessed be the name>>>></a> Click on this link for a taste of our time as a family!<br />
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Thank you all for joining our family on this journey! I pray we will all get to see Sarah and Jason smile and dance real soon!</div>
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Here is a link to the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/p3f9dxnw" target="_blank">Go Fund Me Account</a> if you would like to give. </div>
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More than anything PRAY! Keep praying until God says stop!</div>
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-68287592170810457732016-06-29T01:02:00.002-04:002016-06-29T10:30:14.182-04:00Fear has no place...September 2001 fear gripped our country at the hands of terrorists who tried to steal our peace. I remember sitting in my home as I watched the result of the evil hate for our nation. Fear gripping my own heart while knowing my husband sat in a downtown building that could have been a target at any moment.<br />
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April 2007 our small community was gripped with fear as a <a href="http://www.mainstreetnews.com/2007/April/J0411A.html" target="_blank">Student</a> strapped a bomb to his chest and walked into the front office of our local high school. Inside those walls held our beautiful daughter as she called from her cell phone, telling us she was hiding in the school barn and the school was being evacuated. Kids running wherever they could to hide from the fear that was disrupting their world that once held peace.<br />
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2014 held another grip of fear in our community as several weeks of countless bomb threats and evacuations held our school system hostage.<br />
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Our world has not been the peaceful world that I remember growing up as a child. A peace given as a gift because of our service men and women who chose to fight for our freedom. A time when our country acknowledged that we were a God fearing nation. Our nation's eyes have turned away. We are no longer a Nation under God. My children may never know a day without fear from the evil that was bred from hate. They must now live in a world where hate breeds death. Where something as simple as going to a local mall is now a target for mass destruction.<br />
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Today a young lady, whom I've known her whole life, called to tell my daughter not to come near the mall because our local mall was a scene of a imposed threat. A threat of a mass shooting. A place where just a few days ago our family walked through the many stores, dreaming of things and stuff. Well I was too late! By the time she got the message she was already there...inside. Fear gripped, she sped walked to get to her car. A fear that no young lady should have to feel! Not in rural Georgia! Fear gripped this young lady as she waited to get the OK to close her store's door inside the mall. Waiting inside. Watching and praying this threat wasn't real. Watching men in tactical gear roam the floors of the mall and standing guard outside the doors of her store. The day ended without the threats being carried out. However, the fear remains of what could have been.<br />
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This afternoon, across the ocean, another group of innocent lives lost inside an airport in Turkey. Fear once again has a grip. A fear I face this next week as I welcome our son home from far far away and send our daughter off on a beautiful journey across the deep blue sea!<br />
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The grip of fear is an endless road that leaves you hopeless. Leaves you cowering in a corner of the moment, with no sense of control or direction. Blind to the fact that the only option is the one who brings peace.<br />
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Fear has no place at the sound of His name! When eyes are met with His, the world as we know it disappears... Fades. He came to bring life. Peace. Rest. When you know Him you know that perfect peace. His name...Jesus. I met Him as a young child and have seen His hand on my life for a very long time. He has walked with me through some very dark fear filled times and some very beautiful ones. As a child I remember my mom always reminding me to call out His name when I'm afraid. When I have no words or direction. When all seems hopeless, cry JESUS! She is a wise woman!<br />
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Our world will never know that perfect peace this side of heaven. Until then....I will keep crying Jesus!<br />
Because it's in Him that fear has no place!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-397544103771684002016-02-29T21:49:00.001-05:002016-03-01T10:18:06.163-05:00Blast from the past! Leap Year Treasures!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our love for old things and reminiscing about things and stuff from the past....that's what leap year has become for us. A tradition I hope to keep! A time to challenge each other to set goals and reach for your dreams. To know that time does change all things...even handwriting!<br />
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Leap year 2012 was a fun little project we pulled together at the last minute. The younger three girls added little pieces of themselves to fill our time capsule box. Letters to their future selves and pieces of their hair. Drawings and the Local front page news were added for a reminder of the past. All taped in a shoe box and placed in the attic, to wait for the grand reveal! Knowing that the moment was fast approaching, I fought off many requests to open the time capsule early. I'm so glad I did! Their excitement was a beautiful thing to watch today as they read their letters from <strike>long ago</strike> 2012.<br />
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As I listened to these young ladies write letters for 2016's time capsule, I couldn't help but smile and see how much a small thing could bring so much excitement. Their conversations were quite funny as they talked of all the things they wanted to tell their future selves. Challenges and goals they wanted to accomplish over the next 4 years. Almost sounds like they are running for president! Maybe they should? I anticipate 2020's time capsule will be even better as we reminisce of all the treasures that are stuffed within the box. Letters written from an old friend much younger than themselves.<br />
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However, their time together laughing and anticipating their future goals was the best treasure of all!<br />
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Our son in law began his first round of chemo. So for the next 16 weeks he will be in a fight to kick this cancers butt! Thankfully after a week in the hospital, he was released on Monday night. We as a family are teaming up to help raise funds to help Sarah and Jason cover their medical cost. Our son Jordan just announced he will be doing a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/p3f9dxnw" target="_blank">marathon</a> next fall and all proceeds raised will go towards Jason's medical fund. He is now looking for sponsors to join him in this great opportunity! The other opportunity is their <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/xneb5sd4?rcid=30d19edaeabb4e0586e0bc041f039206" target="_blank">Go Fund Me account</a>. Please share their <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/xneb5sd4?rcid=30d19edaeabb4e0586e0bc041f039206" target="_blank">Go Fund Me</a> page with others! An update has been added to keep everyone in the loop so that you can pray for his specific needs ....Keep Praying! We welcome any fund raising ideas you have, so please don't hesitate to message me.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEepsibnsSo/VnGB4hmK2II/AAAAAAAAIUM/s-rquqUtVEI/s1600/Jason....jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEepsibnsSo/VnGB4hmK2II/AAAAAAAAIUM/s-rquqUtVEI/s400/Jason....jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
Here are the two links that will be supporting Jason and Sarah with any medical needs :<br />
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<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/xneb5sd4?rcid=30d19edaeabb4e0586e0bc041f039206" target="_blank">Go Fund me!!!!</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/p3f9dxnw" target="_blank">Marathon-Team Jason!</a><br />
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Monday night we found ourselves back to the hospital. This time with our daughter. Diagnosis...flu! Finals week and flu do not make for a great week! I'm sure after a few days of bed rest she will be back to her spunky little self. The thoughts of the flu in our home around this most wonderful time of the year is not something I have been dreaming of! Or desiring! Especially with Jason's immune system being compromised. Until all the babies are in the clear from this flu bug, there will be no "To grandmother's house we go!" for Sarah and Jason. I do not like this season right now. However with each season comes change and each change prepares us for the next season. A season to embrace life, lifting my eyes to see God move and perform miracles. To know the love He has for us. To live each day as though it were our last. To love others without condition. Learning to see the beauty in all this. Truthfully...It's all about Jesus anyway! He is the giver of life. He is the one who gives us hope and a future!<br />
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Thank you all for praying with us! Though our eyes may not see the BIG picture yet...I do know our God is faithful and He does have a great plan!<br />
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So until this storm is over...We are going to keep praising Him! Hallelujah!!!!!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-56752287222369425392015-12-11T09:49:00.000-05:002015-12-11T10:24:32.987-05:00Good Good Father !<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Many days walking the road of faith can be a difficult task. Just being a mom to my crew fills my life with endless pulling and tugging. My heart so full that my mind and body can't keep up. A good good full though. A road I walk as my Father draws me deeper into my walk with Him. Sometimes I need a good reminder of His faithfulness.<br />
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Here is a post I wrote on my Facebook wall a few days ago....<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;">I have seen many prayers answered in the nearly 50 years that I have been alive, many great and small. Those small ones always amaze me the most! Yesterday I was praying for someone, asking the Lord to really encourage them and show them how great He is. How He really does love her and has her future in His hands. Well He did! Something as simple as a recognized song to brighten her day in a place where it was so unexpected! He is a good good Father! So, don't discount those small prayers.They really do matter!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;">From the moment my children were born I have prayed for their future spouses. I thought my heart was full with my 9...but my oh my! I really hate the in-law word because we have gained some amazing kids! I think of them as my own.They have come into our family and embraced the chaos with love and a little mercy thrown in there. They have a place in my heart right along with our own children. I sure hope they know how much I love them!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;">These past few weeks our family has begun to walk the road of a cancer diagnosis. I say "our family" because when one walks, we all walk! Our daughter and her husband are beginning their second year of marriage with a Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma diagnosis and are starting with his chemo treatments this week. With endless days of doctors visits and hospital stays, these two have continued to serve without skipping a beat. Never missing one moment to show God's love to others and impacting lives that will last for eternity. I hope this medical community is ready for this duo!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;">Sarah and Jason have served our community and their families with endless hours of giving and selfless open handed love! Even in this illness, they continue to be the servants that they have always been. Now we all have been given a chance to serve them, to show them that same love. I have watched as friends and family have gathered together to pray, give and love in any way they can. With an illness of this magnitude comes great need. A fund has been set up to help them with medical cost so they can fight this disease. As most of you know they were in the process of interviewing for a promising job out of state with a church. Most of their plans for this next year are now on hold until Jason is well and God says go! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;">Here is a link to their </span><a href="https://www.gofundme.com/xneb5sd4" style="font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;" target="_blank">Go Fund Me</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;"> account that has been set up to help with medical cost and any needs they have. To help free Sarah to help and serve her husband. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;">More than anything please continue to pray for Sarah, Jason and the Holcombe/Webb families. We are eternally grateful for all you are doing to be the hands and feet of our good good Father!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17.5636px;"><a href="https://www.gofundme.com/xneb5sd4" target="_blank">GO FUND ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</a></span></span><br />
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-20891682291057325012015-11-25T13:25:00.000-05:002015-11-27T09:57:50.225-05:00Dear Young Bride...One thing I always stress about is...Did I prepare my children enough for adulthood? I remember being a young bride at the age of 18.Though my vows were meaningful and true... I'm not really sure I understood the totality of them all! After 31 years of marriage I'm just beginning to understand what each of them truly entailed.Most brides think they have an idea of what a grand adventure of marriage really looks like.However in reality, until you step across that threshold, the real view of becoming one is so much more than one could imagine!The in sickness and in health becomes real and the beauty of serving one another turns those ideals into reality.This past week our daughter...a new bride...has been placed onto a road of reality. A road chosen for her. A road that she lovingly walks beside her groom as they face the road of cancer together. Each marriage will experience a trial or two at some point along the way. I know my husband and I have had our fair share and I'm sure there will be many more. I wish I could take this part away from my children! But I can't! For whatever reason God has chosen Sarah and Jason to walk this road. To experience total dependence on Him.To look upon His face and see peace and rest.To see His hand work mighty miracles.To see Him turn their mourning into dancing!<br />
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Dear Young Bride....<br />
I was thinking today how blessed I am to have you in my life! I have felt and watched you grow from the very beginning of your infinite soul. Raising you has been a grand adventure with all the ups and downs of life. I have always said you were by far my easiest child to raise. Although,we have had our moments. I can laugh about them now! Your quiet spirit and your loving soul are a beauty that shines through your giving hands. Watching you love others through your daily living makes my heart smile! Guiding you from childhood into adulthood carried a great responsibility and weight upon my heart, with hopes that I had prepared you enough for life. I guess a fear all moms carry with them until they breathe their last breath. A trust I have to place at the feet of our Father in Heaven,that He has perfected you to travel the journey ahead.<br />
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Well...Life happens and dreams change. God guides and He provides. He walks us through our darkest days and celebrates with us in our grand adventures. This past week has been no surprise to our Heavenly Father. You have been thrown into the in-sickness part of your marriage vows a lot sooner than any bride would expect, really never considers during the early days of her marriage. But here you are on this grand adventure! A road, a journey that is preparing you for a future unknown. A part of marriage I wish I could have prepared you for sooner. A part I wish I could make go away. But a time in your life that one day will all make sense. A dark time that you will be able to smile upon one day and say....Now I see! <br />
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Sarah... You are a blessing to your husband. I believe God has been preparing you all along for this very moment. He has equipped you and given you all that you need to walk the path before you. He has not left your side! He has placed others beside you to lend a helping hand or encouraging words to build you up. Keep your eyes upon Him for He is perfecting you and making you into that great jewel! Though the in sickness part sucks right now and the nights become very long, one day you will understand and that joy will return! <br />
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This chapter came to mind for you today. Sing praise to the Lord and give thanks for one day soon you will be dancing!<br />
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I love you so very much,<br />
Mom<br />
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Psalm 30.....</h4>
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1 <span style="font-size: 16px;">I will extol You, O</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><span style="font-size: 16px;">, for You have lifted me up,</span></h4>
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<span class="text Ps-30-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">And have not let my foes rejoice over me.</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-2" id="en-NKJV-14322" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">2 </span>O <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> my God, I cried out to You,</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-2" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">And You healed me.</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-3" id="en-NKJV-14323" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">3 </span>O <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, You brought my soul up from the grave;</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-3" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit.<span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NKJV-14323a" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NKJV-14323a" title="See footnote a">a</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+30&version=NKJV#fen-NKJV-14323a" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote a">a</a>]</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-30-4" id="en-NKJV-14324" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">4 </span>Sing praise to the <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, you saints of His,</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-4" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.<span class="footnote" data-fn="#fen-NKJV-14324b" data-link="[<a href="#fen-NKJV-14324b" title="See footnote b">b</a>]" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+30&version=NKJV#fen-NKJV-14324b" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #b34b2c; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: top;" title="See footnote b">b</a>]</span></span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-5" id="en-NKJV-14325" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">5 </span>For His anger <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">is but for</i> a moment,</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">His favor <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">is for</i> life;</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">Weeping may endure for a night,</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">But joy <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">comes</i> in the morning.</span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-30-6" id="en-NKJV-14326" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">6 </span>Now in my prosperity I said,</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-6" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">“I shall never be moved.”</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-7" id="en-NKJV-14327" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">7 </span><span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong;</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-7" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">You hid Your face, <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">and</i> I was troubled.</span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-30-8" id="en-NKJV-14328" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">8 </span>I cried out to You, O <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>;</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-8" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">And to the <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> I made supplication:</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-9" id="en-NKJV-14329" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">9 </span>“What profit <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">is there</i> in my blood,</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-9" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">When I go down to the pit?</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-9" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">Will the dust praise You?</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-9" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">Will it declare Your truth?</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-10" id="en-NKJV-14330" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">10 </span>Hear, O <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, and have mercy on me;</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-10" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, be my helper!”</span></div>
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<div class="line" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">
<span class="text Ps-30-11" id="en-NKJV-14331" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">11 </span>You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-11" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness,</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-12" id="en-NKJV-14332" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">12 </span>To the end that <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">my</i> glory may sing praise to You and not be silent.</span><br />
<span class="text Ps-30-12" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">O <span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> my God, I will give thanks to You forever</span></div>
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-64084941844723242392015-11-22T21:31:00.000-05:002016-11-22T16:41:33.492-05:00A Journey Unknown....I remember Sarah sharing with me about this young man she had met..."Mom, he's the male version of me!" she said, That statement couldn't have been more true! Except that he would always walk in our door ready and willing to help with dishes or whatever I needed help with! Large family probs! I have seen nothing but a heart to serve in this young man since the day we met. More than three years later, I see that same heart!<br />
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One year ago our family celebrated as Jason and Sarah tied the knot and joined our families together! This fun loving tattooed goof ball of a young man is now my son in-law and calls me mom! I have watched as they have served our community as youth ministers and poured out their lives to show others the love of Jesus. I have watched as they have loved our family and made themselves available whenever I needed help. Yes...They are more alike than the "Mom he's just like me" statement could have ever explained!<br />
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Now it's time for us all to show these two the love of Jesus and serve them....<br />
This past week our daughter and son received some unexpected news, a diagnosis of Lymphoma. Tomorrow Jason will begin a few medical proceedures to get him on his way to good health. Though this journey may be frightening with all the unknowns, we serve a God who has every detail of Jason's being already in the palm of His hand! He is Jehovah Rapha...the God who heals!<br />
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What you may not know is Jason and Sarah were in the middle of an interview process with a church out of state. That is now on hold. Please be praying for their finances as well as Jason's health. Please pray for our daughter Sarah, that God would equip her to be Jason's greatest cheerleader during this journey. Please pray for our familes as we team up to serve them however we can with love and support.<br />
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All of their needs as well as this diagnosis is not a surprise to our heavenly Father! Sarah and Jason's futures were surrendered at God's feet the day they chose to follow Him. So together the journey continues...in sickness and in health. This jouney is and will be a testimony of the grace and love of a Father who loves Jason and Sarah more than we can comprehend.<br />
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Thank you all for your prayers! During this week of "Thankfulness" I am thankful for each of you!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-81833307104549369102015-08-16T15:52:00.000-04:002015-08-20T07:37:52.717-04:00His plan...His ways<br />
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I remember being one week past my due date. Had I not had BP issues, he may have stayed put a little while longer. More time to grow and mature. After a twelve hour labor and delivery, we met our 8lb and 8oz. baby boy! The first boy in my family in over twenty years. My stay was 3 days but that baby boy earned himself four more days of sunning under the lights.Tiny sun goggles and many heel pricks. <a href="http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/bilirubin-15434" target="_blank">Bilirubin</a> levels too high to go home. I thought my heart would just break right out of my chest!<br />
All my plans and visions of how our going home would play out...gone! First time mom and I'm sitting on my hospital bed in a puddle of tears. Being wheeled out of the hospital with empty arms and thoughts of leaving him there at the hospital, was the hardest part of this new road of adventure. I should have known this was an indication of how his life would play out.<br />
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When you pray for something you better be prepared for however God chooses to answer you. I thought I was prepared! I will say sometimes God's answers to prayer aren't exactly what I envisioned. Honestly, His answers can make me angry. Truthfully, they sometimes suck!<br />
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Baby boy was finally released from the hospital and came home to a well rested new mama.Honestly that extra four days were a blessing! He grew up to be an amazing young man who has done many remarkable things. We have sent him off on many adventures (4 to be exact) to cultures beyond our borders.<br />
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Saturday as we said "See you later" my heart broke once again. I thought I had prepared myself...I thought wrong. All day fighting back the tears. That was a very short ride to the airport! An even shorter check-in-time. As we turned to say "See you later" I couldn't even look at him. Fear I guess. A little anger at how God answered our prayer for a job. That was the best "See you later"hug I have ever had! Knowing it might be over a year before I get another one made this moment really difficult. I was a blubbering mess walking out of that airport (hospital). Those old feelings of walking out without my baby were just the same as 29 years prior. Except he's now a 29 year old 6'3 big guy. Then God had to go and remind me that he would be fine and His ways and plans far exceed Justin's mother's plans. Four days...Two years, it's all the same when your life is in the control of a mighty God who does great things at our request.<br />
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Once again we have left him to adventure into a land unknown, to become all that God has called him to be. To soak in all the rays of life, to heal and to grow. To pour into others as a servant,mentor or whatever title he may carry.<br />
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Although I will miss him terribly, I will rest in knowing he is exactly where he should be. Yes...God's plans far exceed my plans. Good thing, because Justin will get to hang out with a bunch of amazing third grade kids in an unknown culture who will rock his world!<br />
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I'm sure he is going to rock theirs!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-18915897530973444102015-06-04T16:36:00.001-04:002015-08-17T10:50:12.048-04:00In His time....Our first born. That cute tree hugging kid of mine is leaving the nest! Flying on a jet plane onto his next adventure!<br />
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They tell you...Choose a major. Choose something you like to do. You can be anything you want to be! At least that was how it use to be! I wish that dream was still true!<br />
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I never had a chance to go to college. I guess that's why I push my children to pursue a degree in something. Anything. When they do, I become their biggest cheerleader! Even making them attend their college graduation, all the while they had no desire to do so. Yes...one of my kids actually didn't want to walk for one of the most desired schools here in Georgia. He did it anyway, just for me!<br />
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Degree earned and the waiting game began. Waiting for that hard earned degree to payoff. We waited. Months turned into years. Maybe you should get your Masters degree in that field they say?! So off he went. Overseas for a year. Degree earned. We wait. Thinking a degree digging in the dirt would lead to that treasured job,We prayed and waited on the Lord to answer our request. At what point do you say...God I will do anything, just give me a job...a full time paying job?!<br />
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When you are raised in a big family, you kind of become good at working with kids. Even though his degree was far from working with kids, his part time/ full time job has been just that. Countless hours of after school and summer camp for the last 10 years. That's a lot of little lives he's impacted. Honestly...He's really good with kids! I hear the stories and see the little notes these kids shower upon our children. This summer we have 4 kids working the summer camp program at our local rec center. If you ever want to change the world or be changed yourself...go work with kids! They will bring an end to all that selfishness that lies beneath your heart. They will push you beyond all reason. However, at the end of that very long day, their unconditional love will push you to wake up and do it all over again the next day!<br />
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I'm not really sure where he gets his travel bug from. Right out of high school he spent over three months in Africa. Countless mission trips and one year pursuing his degree in Israel. This young man has seen many beautiful places and experienced countless different cultures in his young life. Now it's time for the next adventure. Except this time will be a paid FULL time job! Working with kids! Overseas...halfway around the world!<br />
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From bucket brigade to teaching English to school children. Not what he had planned but what God has ordained for his life. When you lay your life at God's feet don't complain when He does something amazing with it! You never know what God is going to do when you lay your life at His feet!<br />
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We thought this opportunity wasn't going to happen. Our son had almost given up hope when the final email came.This was my Facebook post the day he received the final proposal... <span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, 'lucida grande', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">There's nothing like the end of a very long journey waiting on the Lord to answer a prayer! Often in ways we least expect. He is God .His ways are perfect. His plans are flawless. I am thankful.. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, 'lucida grande', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">I am thankful and teary-eyed at what God's plans entail. I have watched many years of discouragement turn into an amazing opportunity! Two years to impact the lives of school age children. To live in an unknown culture as he lives out the plans God has laid before him. It's so amazing that God has placed a few of his friends at that very same school. Even God's plans have extra added bonuses!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, 'lucida grande', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Our family has been greatly encouraged by this long awaited answer to prayer.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, 'lucida grande', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Never give up hope! Pray without ceasing! You never know what God will do when you lay your desires at His feet!</span><br />
<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-79874486744300252782015-05-24T12:35:00.000-04:002015-05-24T12:36:06.202-04:00To see her heart....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One more week of school here in the Holcombe house. I am a little excited to finally sleep past 6am! Maybe. As I get older I'm finding that my inner time clock is a creature of habit! Oh for the days of sleeping until noon! I think that is a past that will never be revisited!<br />
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As the school year closes our kiddos are bringing home their endless piles of past assignments. Many I just flip through, mostly because I'm rushing to get to the next thing on my very long to do list. Many times missing little nuggets of gold. This particular day I was running on empty and moving at a snails pace. Really in need of a pick me up moment of encouragement. As I flipped through Kenzie's papers I came across this writing assignment. Just a few weeks after Mother's Day and I'm still receiving little notes of love! Except this was a little different.<br />
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A few days before while riding in the car, I had been a part of a sweet what I thought was a random conversation with Mackenzie. Mom, You love me when I am bad. When I am happy. When I'm... and endless list of when I'm. They weren't questions but statements. Facts that she had come to realize about my love for her. Then I receive this beautiful page of a second graders thoughts on why her mom is the best.<br />
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My mom loves me the way I am in my heart....<br />
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Wow...she really understands what I have always tried to portray to my children! No matter how much they mess up, are good or bad, ugly or cute, their heart is where I look to know the true them. The beauty of the inner being that was entrusted into my care. The outside vision of them doesn't always match with what I see when I look at their heart. I guess in some ways this helps me to shower more grace upon them...even when they don't deserve it!<br />
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I can't tell you how much I needed that note that day. The tears flowed as I felt my Father say...Yes, I love you that very same way! I love the way you are in your heart. Past all your mistakes,ugliness and sin. Just like you are!<br />
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In my opinion...My God is the best because He loves me the way I am in my heart!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-5606666932607841272015-01-11T12:50:00.000-05:002015-01-11T13:54:32.641-05:00Oh the places she will go...Today, after 29 years of endless years of car seats....We are car seat freeeeeee! The emptiness in our car is a little sad. However...so exciting for this new road our family will walk! <br />
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I never planned to have nine children. However I did promise myself I would never have a baby after the age of 40. In true Mackenzie fashion 1 month before my 41st birthday I gave birth to our 9th child. Three weeks early after weeks of ultrasounds and endless doctor visits, our little caboose made her grand entrance!<br />
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Since that day she hasn't slowed down....I am not getting out of child rearing easy! Mackenzie will make sure of that! A challenge I will always cherish!<br />
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I guess being the youngest of nine, God knew she would need a little spunk. That spunk would give her the survival skill that she would need to get through life. Head strong and more than likely a natural born leader. Not a shy bone in her body. She has no fear and in some strange way behaves as though she were a teenager. Her love for her brothers and sisters is amazing to watch. Her love for her niece is even more amazing! With another niece coming in just a few months I'm sure this will be a journey I don't want to miss!<br />
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Where did the time go? <br />
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Youngest of 9</div>
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Born in the month of January</div>
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Lover of Chick-Fil-A</div>
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Loves her niece Reese</div>
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Still loves our morning snuggles before the day begins</div>
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Hates to sleep in a room alone</div>
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Loves art</div>
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Head strong</div>
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Loves to eat pistachios with her brother</div>
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This little girl has brought life and love to our family. She has kept us on our toes. Filling us with pure exhaustion! I can't help but think of all the amazing things God has planned for her life. The people she will meet and the places she might go! </div>
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Mackenzie Claire you were given to us to be a blessing! A blessing you are! I pray that whatever God has planned ,you will give it your all and share that sweet smile with everyone you meet. I can't think of a finer person to walk me to the end of child rearing with. You have given me strength on days when I just couldn't seem to find it. Your smile has brightened everyday that I have been blessed to see it. Your morning snuggles makes my days so much better! </div>
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Happy Birthday! </div>
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I love you!</div>
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Mom</div>
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PS...I will walk with you on the day you graduate from highschool!</div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-72465695577691733742014-12-04T12:14:00.001-05:002015-10-24T11:01:22.425-04:00The big reveal !After 25 weeks of waiting, I can finally say the wait was worth it! Isn't that how most trials are? So many lessons learned. Some I would rather have not experienced but necessary non the less. I see now... had I got what I wanted when I wanted, I probably wouldn't have the kitchen that I have today. <a href="http://www.christianroofingandremodeling.com/" target="_blank">Christian Roofing and Remodeling</a> did an amazing job! Working with their contractors made this whole transformation a pleasant experience.<br />
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I wish I could say the same for our insurance company and mortgage company. On a side note...the mortgage company still hasn't released the remaining funds to our contractor. We finished on November 10, 2014. Many calls and unmet promises. To bad I can't charge them interest for holding onto the money that isn't even theirs.<br />
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So what started as a leak at the dishwasher water line,and this very long journey, is now a beautiful space to feed my family. Many weeks of <strike>fit pitching</strike> fighting with the insurance company. 25 weeks of no mopping...Yuck is right! Jumping through way too many hoops. My sanity tested over and over again.<br />
Now I can finally say......<br />
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MAMA HAS HER KITCHEN BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
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The microwave vent hood above...It was a gift! I really wanted one,but spending the extra $ wasn't in our budget. The old vent hood was really needing to be replaced but would have to be reinstalled. A week before the cabinets arrived I received a call from a friend. She wanted to know if I needed a vent hood...a microwave vent hood! She had one that was sitting in her garage and she was needing to move it out. Do I need one?! Yes and Yes!!!! The funny thing is...It was black and the very same name brand as my stove! If you ever doubt that God cares about the little desires of our heart....please stop! He didn't have too but He did. I never really expressed this desire. Just one of those things that I thought would be nice to have. Yes...it still puts a smile on my face and reminds me how much He loves me! </div>
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We are all enjoying our newly renovated kitchen. Some days I find myself just standing there staring in amazement! Thankful that the renovations were complete just a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving. Smiling as I watched our family gather on this day with so much thankfulness for this sweet gift!</div>
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-21799447304993922862014-10-31T22:41:00.001-04:002014-11-01T11:40:09.335-04:00What's wrong with me?<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EyfBvXwznAY" width="459"></iframe><br />
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I can't help it! My kids do some of the funniest things when they are bored! I have laughed so much at this short video that the laundry has doubled...if you know what I mean girls!? Laughter is good medicine! Please share the laugh with those you love...and even those you don't!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-15917972126425137742014-10-31T11:36:00.001-04:002014-10-31T11:51:52.905-04:00My head is spinning...These last few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity. The months of September and October have been jam - packed with milestones and journey changing events in our family.<br />
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In September while juggling wedding planning and kitchen transformation drama, we celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary. We did sneak away for a couple of days....but not the celebrating we wanted. So we have postponed a much needed anniversary trip until sometime next year.<br />
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After much prayer and fit pitching(I guess this is a southern term for throwing yourself on the floor while kicking and screaming!), On week 23, the gutting of my kitchen began!!!! Our mortgage company took three weeks to process our insurance check before they would release our funds. By the time we had those funds in hand, it was the week before our daughter's wedding. So here we are 23 weeks after the demolition of my kitchen began. The wedding was absolutely beautiful! All of our hard work, in spite of the kitchen drama, turned out better than I had hoped! My sister Kelly and daughter Emily were my saving grace! They did an amazing job with all the details!<br />
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We moved from wedding right into kitchen transformation, without taking one breath! Yes...I'm tired!</div>
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Yes...I'm beyond done! Yes...God is still good! </div>
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Monday morning was met with much <strike>fear and trembling</strike> excitement! I was never so happy to finally see that work truck in my driveway.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rR23UkYuYOI/VFOZlA1aRmI/AAAAAAAAExk/D7T6KkB-erY/s1600/Kitchen%2B2014%2B024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rR23UkYuYOI/VFOZlA1aRmI/AAAAAAAAExk/D7T6KkB-erY/s1600/Kitchen%2B2014%2B024.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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So, once one's kitchen has been gutted...How does one manage to keep her household of 8 fed without the proper tools? Friends...this one was genius! Planned long before our dishwasher decided to start this journey. </div>
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You see...My stove was moved to the garage. The only problem is...No stove No cook! I'm smiling at this point...except it is very expensive for a family of 8 to eat out.</div>
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When we bought our home 15 years ago, my laundry room was in the basement. My husband having mercy on me, moved it to the space between the kitchen and garage. It is now a laundry/butler's pantry, complete with counter space! As for my stove....it needs a special plug. Wouldn't you know there just happens to be this sweet little odd plug that we have never used in our garage. The exact plug needed for our stove.</div>
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This my friends is almost like camping! I'm cooking in the garage. I'm washing dishes in the laundry sink. I guess my neighbors (who can see in my garage when they turn into our subdivision) think I have finally gone over the edge. I'm so thankful it has been warm this week. </div>
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Along with the stove my garage was filled with old and new cabinets.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTwuRNVGonc/VFOZU9F663I/AAAAAAAAExE/6zVmQ3WDDI8/s1600/Kitchen%2B2014%2B019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nTwuRNVGonc/VFOZU9F663I/AAAAAAAAExE/6zVmQ3WDDI8/s1600/Kitchen%2B2014%2B019.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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The new cabinets are now sitting in my kitchen! I am loving this new look! My favorite is the extra cabinet to the right of my refrigerator. I now have a space that will be a coffee station. </div>
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Our walls are prepped and waiting for paint. The counter tops are ready to be installed on Monday. Flooring on Wednesday and then the final touches. Twenty Four weeks of a kitchen journey from Hell. Two weeks of a kitchen transformation with all the inconveniences that try my patience. One big tired family that is ready to have their mom back. One big God who has carried me through with encouragement from family and friends.</div>
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When all this is done, I will look back and say....I survived the Kitchen remodel of 2014!</div>
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November and December will be the end of this very long year. A year with much spiritual and personal growth. I have been pushed beyond what I thought I could ever handle. Given an immeasurable amount of endurance. I have seen the hand of God gently hold me and carry me while walking this journey. Providing me with the strength,grace and mercy that I never knew was possible. </div>
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We will end this year with Kelley's 3rd(Hopefully last) ankle surgery. Maybe I need a T shirt that says. " I survived 2014!"</div>
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-8102865956065542262014-09-08T14:22:00.000-04:002014-09-08T15:20:56.721-04:00The Plot thickens...time line continued<span lang=""></span><br />
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Part 2 of the time line...<br />
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8/25 Emailed contractor to see how the estimate was coming along.<br />
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8/25 Received estimate from our contractor<br />
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8/25 Submitted Contractor estimate to State Farm<br />
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8/25 Called our claim team to make sure they had received our estimate and was told it would be at least 24 hours before they would receive it.<br />
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8/26 Emailed Mr. Rust.. State Farm executive... to inform him of our issues with our kitchen claim and to inquire what we could do to expedite this claim.<br />
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8/26 Response to email from Mr. Rust requesting more information about the claim.<br />
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8/26 Received a call from Jada at State Farm informing us our estimate was approved.<br />
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8/26 Emailed our contractor to inform him of State Farms approval of his estimate and that we were ready to get started with the kitchen.<br />
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9/2 Received insurance check from State Farm<br />
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9/2-9/3 Spoke with Mortgage company about the claim process. <br />
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9/4 Spoke with Pearlie Harris from State Farm in response to my email to Mr. Rust<br />
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9/4-9/5 Spoke with mortgage company again about the process of our claim...was told they had mailed us a claim package with instructions from the mortgage company. <br />
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9/8..As of today's mail...nothing!<br />
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September 1st...I was finally celebrating my Insurance check in hand and then....<br />
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September 2nd...My Facebook post...<br />
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Nothing is ever easy ! Now to jump through hoops for Green Tree Mortgage! Procedures they say...Send endorsed check along with contractors estimate,w9, and State Farms estimate. 7-10 day processing time. Then they send 1 check to us and contractor 50% of the funds. When job is done then they send an inspector (they want to oversee the job) out before the release of the rest of the funds! All this for a 2 day job! Somebody shoot me!</span><br />
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September 4th...My Facebook post....</span><br />
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Did you know if you have an insurance claim your mortgage company can take and oversee the funding and the job? I have a kitchen claim that I fought for 14 weeks to get settled and now that I finally have the funds from the insurance company and the go ahead, my mortgage company is seizing the funds and overseeing the job once I submit the endorsed by us check and about 5 other documents they will <span class="text_exposed_show">need from the contractor and insurance company. Once they have the paperwork, they will release 50% of the funds and the remaining 50% once their inspector has approved the completed job. What do they think I'm going to do take the money and run? So my name is on the contractors contract and will be responsible for the charges. There is no guarantee I will even get those funds back.</span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">With one month left until our daughters wedding I see no hope in getting our kitchen completed before hand. As of today it remains in the same condition that it was 15 weeks ago. My emails to our insurance commissioner Ralph Hudgens have gone unanswered ( I didn't put this on the time line but emailed him with questions on 8/14), my insurance company that complicated this whole mess has now passed the baton to our Mortgage company. I am the one left standing saying... Wait a minute!...Don't I have a say in this whole mess? I really hate that my time, energy and what sanity I have left has been consumed with the last 15 weeks. What should be a time of celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary and our daughters wedding has instead been weeks of regulations, hoop jumping and mental exhaustion. </span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">Really, the truth of the matter is.... </span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">When my kitchen is complete and I can once again walk barefoot on my floor, I will look back and say...GOD WAS AND IS GOOD!!!</span></span></div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-42770679705886574532014-08-19T09:03:00.000-04:002014-08-19T21:40:52.414-04:00Time lines... A whole new perspective on this journey!Recently I had a conversation with a very special woman. In that conversation, she made a suggestion of placing a time line in my email to the insurance commissioner. Yes, we have gone that far! Not what I had hoped but where we are at.<br />
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As I continue to obtain yet another quote, I am finding this is not as easy as I had hoped. On Monday I did have what I pray will be the last contractor come to our home for measurements and photos in preparation for his quote! Now we are back to the waiting game. One week for the completed quote and one week for SF's yes or no. <br />
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As I wrote out the time line...all 6 pages...I saw this whole ordeal in a different light! Wow...I am a patient woman! My children may not agree with that statement. What I did leave out was my emotions during all this...at least I tried to leave them out. The anger, bitterness, moments of feeling abandoned, the fatigue due to the hours of searching and sitting with the contractors in order to come up with an accurate quote. Maybe the disruption to our family...the very large family! Plans put on hold because I couldn't have extra people in the house due to the condition of our kitchen. There is a little word called "Liability" that keeps swimming in my head. The time I have been stuck as I walked barefoot on our kitchen floor, the one that is now plywood with vinyl debris. Or the counter top that now just balances on two base cabinets and a dishwasher...leaving the side of that dishwasher and underneath the sink exposed. Maybe how the contents of those cabinets are now living in my dining room in rubber maid containers and floor. <br />
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Without further ado....A little long but worth what's at the end!<br />
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<span lang=""><br />Kitchen Claim 2014...Week 12 and counting!<br />
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We contacted our State Farm agent early March of 2014, concerning water damage from a leak at the dishwasher line. An appointment was made with an claim adjuster<br />
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The SF adjuster showed up several hours ahead of scheduled time with no warning.<br />
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3/11 received first State Farm Claim estimate<br />
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Discovered a huge mistake and called SF adjuster to notify him of the mistake...$ for a new refrigerator. We were advised to destroy the check. A new one would be issued.<br />
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3/17 received new corrected State Farm estimate<br />
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Minus previous mistake<br />
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Dated letter 3/23... Received letter from SF home office needing documented repairs by 7/13/14<br />
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Dated letter 6/6... Received letter from SF home office<br />
Cancelling our insurance because repairs were not made by 7/13<br />
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Dated letter 7/11...Received letter from SF home office stating to disregard previous letters.<br />
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**** All claims packages have stated that the homeowner has up to two years to make repairs. <br />
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Repairs to the water line were made before we even called our SF agent.<br />
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6/9 - 6/12 Repairs began. Plumbing disconnected, dishwasher disconnected and removed, Refrigerator removed, stove moved, counter tops removed, 3 base cabinets removed. Vinyl flooring removed and damaged sink based removed from kitchen. Due to the nature of this claim we returned two base cabinets and placed the countertops to rest on said base cabinets and dishwasher. After several days we realized the nature of this claim could not be completed as per our SF adjusters recommendations, we reconnected the dishwasher and plumbing to the sink and returned the refrigerator and stove to the kitchen until further authorization from State Farm.<br />
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Due to the condition of the cabinets and SF's instructions SF was contacted. We were told they would need a letter from a contractor stating that said cabinets couldn't be repaired.<br />
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6/18 We received Area Decors letter. We were advised the damaged cabinets could not be repaired. The requested letter stated that the cabinets could not be matched. Unitemized amounts were included in the letter. <br />
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6/19 Photos and Area Decor's letter was emailed to our SF claim rep.<br />
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6/24 Received a 3rd supplement from SF, to our claim package with a check in the amount of $4243.98. $352.30 less than amounts on Area Decor's letter. <br />
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Realizing these figures were well below what was needed, I made a call to the SF claim office to advise them that we weren't in agreement with this contractor concerning his quote and that the letter was only meant to be the requested letter stating that the cabinet could not be repaired. I was never given authorization or instructions to obtain cabinet quotes. SF had only approved for the sink base cabinet to be repaired on three sides up until this point.<br />
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From 6/24 to sometime the week of July 14th numerous attempts were made to get clarification of the amounts given on the Area Decor letter. During this time we were advised that until clarification was made from Area Decor we could not proceed with submitting other contractor quotes.<br />
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Between 7/11 and 7/15 I proceeded to obtain an accurate kitchen quote in hopes that I could get a clearer picture of the cost. It was during this time SF finally decided to throw out Area Decor's letter. I was then given the ok to proceed with obtaining a cabinet and countertop quote. With no guidance from SF that is what I did.<br />
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7/15 Home Depot Cabinet measuring<br />
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7/16 Home Depot floor measuring<br />
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7/26 Received Final quotes from Home Depot for flooring, cabinets and countertops.<br />
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7/29 Final Quotes and builder supplements were emailed to SF claim office<br />
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7/31 or 8/1... I called SF to follow up on submitted quotes and spoke with a SF team member. Was told they would forward the information to team leader and would call me.<br />
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8/4 Spoke with head claim SF team member and was advised that the submitted bid was too high. I could choose to have the original SF adjuster come back out or proceed to get another quote. During the conversation the SF team member stated that SF had dropped the ball on this claim.<br />
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At no time were parameters or directions given from SF in searching for quotes.<br />
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8/4 SF team member emailed me a list of contractors in my area. Stating we need an unbiased quote.<br />
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8/7 Southeast Restoration came to our home for measuring and gaining information for a quote<br />
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8/11 Received an emailed quote from Southeast Restoration. Several mistakes were noticed. I called to advise of the mistakes.<br />
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8/12 Noticed major measuring mistakes on the SR quote so I emailed them the measures from the SF claim package to compare.<br />
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8/12 I personally found a list of 6-7 contractors for my area. I proceeded to call down the list. 4 of the 5 numbers listed were no longer working numbers.<br />
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8/12 - 8/14 Several attempts...2 phone calls and a couple of emails noting the mistakes... were made to get clarification and corrections made on the quote.<br />
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8/14 One last email was sent to Southeast Restoration with my concerns of no response to the emails or phone calls.<br />
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8/15 I received a corrected quote from Southeast Restoration.<br />
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8/18 We had another company come to our home for yet another quote. Was told it would be Friday 8/22 before we would receive their quote<br />
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<span lang="">Hmm...I wonder what my whole life would look like in a time line? Would I see my God in a different light? Would I see how He has fought for me and placed just the right people in my life for my good? Would I see how very patient He has been with me? Loving me always even when I didn't deserve it. Waiting for me to get my act together and submit to His will not mine. Would I see that His timing is perfect...never late and never early!? Would I see that no matter how many plans I had for my life, His were always so much better!? That through the pain of life He brought beauty and Joy.<br />
<br />I know I can not make time stand still or speed up. I can not go back or skip over. However I can step back and look at my life as a whole and say ...."Yes...My God is good!" <br />
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"He knows what's best for me and I will follow!"</span><br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-22998184724411774942014-08-15T21:52:00.001-04:002014-08-15T21:52:26.801-04:00Sanctus Real - Lay It Down (Acoustic)<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/H7mr-wy2ONU?list=UUfzLWixUuME4xwce_eEXWKA" width="480"></iframe><br /><br />
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Perfect after the week we have had! Enjoy!<br /><br />
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Have a blessed weekend!<br /><br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-32216164320482831762014-08-11T22:33:00.001-04:002014-08-11T22:42:48.362-04:00This is an Insurance claim that will not end...I remember several years ago during hurricane season, our friends from Florida evacuated to our home to wait out the storm. Little did we know this storm would be a never ending disruption to Florida life. In an attempt to make light of the situation we began to sing a song. Over and over and over!<br />
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As we are now into week 11 of the demolition process of our kitchen, I found myself humming that ole familiar tune. I have a choice...I can scream, I can cry or I can sing! On the verge of loosing my sanity, I chose singing!<br />
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"This is a claim that will not end! It goes on and on...My friends! This mama started singing it not knowing how long it was and she will continue singing it forever just because....<br />
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It really is a catchy tune!<br />
Well folks...I'm back to getting yet another quote! Each quote takes no less than 1 week to process. With each week my hope in seeing the end of this claim diminishes.<br />
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On July 29th I submitted our final bid with all submitted contractor supplements.The call came last Monday from my insurance company that my submitted bid was too high. I really wanted to throw up! My choice...Have the original adjuster come back out or get another bid! Given the options...why would I choose the original adjuster who dropped the ball from the get go? NO THANK YOU!!!!<br />
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Can someone tell me how a bid can be too high when they have given me NO direction except to go get cabinet bids? Have you seen the vast array of cabinets? I chose a mid-range cabinet, laminate counter tops and vinyl floors. After spending weeks of waiting on clarification from the first cabinet maker, I wanted to get an accurate itemized bid so this wouldn't have to drag out any longer.<br />
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Well...IT AIN'T OVER FOLKS!!!!!!!<br />
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I have cried, screamed, posted on FB and I have even resorted to tweeting with Jake from SF. Maybe the insurance commissioner should get in on the party?! You too are welcome to join me on twitter... <a href="https://twitter.com/KarenHolcombe">https://twitter.com/KarenHolcombe</a><br />
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The disruption of our home continues with Plywood floors and kitchen in the same condition it was 11 weeks ago. I'm beginning to get splinters in my feet. No more barefeet in this house! No more sanity either!<br />
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Time to click my heels together and wish for home! Wishing for this disruption to end....<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-43492979036046024582014-08-04T09:25:00.000-04:002014-08-04T11:12:45.687-04:00Anticipation....it's making me wait!<span class="passage-display-bcv">Philippians 4:6-7</span><br />
<span class="text Phil-4-6" id="en-NKJV-29449"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; </span> <span class="text Phil-4-7" id="en-NKJV-29450"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. </span><br />
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Anticipation can turn to anxiousness if you let it....<br />
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Anticipating the end of the week and the kids will be back in school.<br />
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Anticipating the return to structure and routine to our home....hahahaha! One can dream too!<br />
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Anticipating all the freedom and quiet I will have when that big yellow bus peaks around the corner....still dreaming!<br />
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Anticipating September and we will be celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary...Yes 30....It is possible!<br />
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Anticipating October and my beautiful morning coffee bud will be returning home from her adventure of a lifetime living with her aunt and uncle. Any time with my sister is an adventure!<br />
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Anticipating October and our other beautiful daughter will be changing her last name.<br />
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Anticipating and praying my kitchen will one day be completed....10 weeks and counting! Jake from SF must be busy!<br />
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Anticipating how busy the Holcombe house will be over the next few months! What am I saying ...we are very busy year round!<br />
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So many thoughts of future adventures and milestones. Seasons of life changing, right along with the leaves. Oh to make time stand still or reverse itself, as I wait for answers to life's unanswered questions. Unfinished dreams or ignored moments that are forever gone! Only to impact tomorrow's anticipations!<br />
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These changes can only help me to take a deeper look at my past and see how my Father in Heaven has continued to mold me into the very image of His beloved. My future is in His hands!<br />
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All these anticipations, they pale in comparison to that grand moment of anticipation! That beautiful moment when my Father in Heaven says "Well done thy good and faithful servant!"<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-89816329797267269502014-07-15T11:56:00.002-04:002015-08-28T10:51:32.561-04:00Dancing with our Insurance company to the song "I dream of a beautiful kitchen"(To the tune of White Christmas)<br />
I'm dreaming of beautiful kitchen! Just like the one I used to know!<br />
Where the memories of loved ones laughing<br />
and the lips of my children smacking!<br />
Just to taste the recipes that they know!<br />
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Six weeks of a journey unlike the one I had in my head.<br />
Six weeks of trying my patience....or what's left of it.<br />
Six weeks of teaching me to stand my ground.<br />
Six weeks of stretching me beyond what I would say necessary. Stretch Armstrong is eating my dust!<br />
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Let me back up a few months....<br />
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Back in March I began to notice our dishwasher leaking. Thinking it was coming from the door when we would open it...I run on average two loads a day. Also, we were pushing about 5-6 years on this help mate of mine. Not bad for a family of 11! Anyways...I would just wipe it up and use this as an opportunity to mop the surrounding floor. Not realizing what was happening in the back part of the cabinet.<br />
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We decided to retire our faithful companion and up grade to a nice shiny model! The day of the switch out we made a discovery...A soaking wet cabinet! Let's just say particle board box cabinets don't repel water to well! That man of mine made an immediate repair to the line and we kept the dishwasher pulled out so as to allow the cabinet to dry. In the mean time I made the call to our insurance agent. Our faithful insurance company SF,we have had for 30 years. In thirty years this would only be our second claim ever! Six cars, Two houses and a boat....Can you say "Faithful Customer?"<br />
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The adjuster they sent out showed up several hours before our scheduled time with no warning. He then proceeds to take measurements and barely pulls out the new dishwasher...which is just slid under the counter...so that he can see the damage. His recommendation....repair the cabinet. The side, the back and the bottom. Really? Repair three sides of a four sided cabinet? A manufactured box cabinet that is basically glued and stapled together? I'm advised that if we get everything pulled out and see there is more damage just let them know. I would just need a recommendation from a contractor. We received the first claim a week later but noticed a mistake which was several thousand to our good. Doing the right thing I made the call to the adjuster! Man I would have loved that new refrigerator he added into the claim! However...he was very thankful at our honesty! So we waited another week for the correction to be made.<br />
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So as to not disrupt our kids while they are finishing up the end of the year and testing, I decided to wait until school was out to begin this adventure. Being knee deep in wedding planning, daughter graduating from high school and kids prepping to take CRCT test, This was a wise move. Oh and getting ready for another one to leave the country for a few months. No....My plate is not full!<br />
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A wise move because we are now into the sixth week of this demolition of my kitchen that began the first part of June.<br />
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This would be the cabinet he wanted us to repair.<br />
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I must admit I'm beginning to get use to this rustic floor. I have totally eliminated the chore of mopping. The dining room carpet refuses to stay clean because of the plywood floor debris that get tracked in from the kitchen. So vacuuming may be a thing of the past too! <br />
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In order to see the complete damage and prove to the insurance company that the cabinet could NOT be repaired, plumbing had to be disconnected and counter tops removed. So this is what I was suppose to be left with before our friendly insurance company would approve further repairs. Can someone tell me how a family of 9 is suppose to function in a kitchen without a sink? This my friends is why I am thankful I had the good sense to wait until school was out! This was the first part of June.<br />
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That sweet man of mine had mercy on me and did a temporary reconnect. The damaged cabinet totally removed and the counter is just resting on the two base cabinets and dishwasher. All this until I can get an accurate cost of cabinet replacement. That was over six weeks ago. </div>
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Before I can get estimates for replacement, the claims office needed photos of the damaged cabinet and a letter stating that it could not be repaired. In an effort to get the cabinets replaced I went to an authorized dealer of our cabinets. The owner of this company came out and measured. He was kind enough to write me a general letter to submit. However he included in his letter a few figures to replace cabinets. Along with the photos, I submitted his letter. One week later I had a check for a little over $4200. This was even $350 less than this man's figures. Now, that letter was not an actual itemized estimate. No explanation as to what all he had included into his figures. Realizing that this figure seemed below what it should, I went and received a few other estimates. I received not one but several estimates that were several thousand dollars more! I thought this repair was going to be easy! I have challenged the first cabinet makers letter. I have called this man several times to get a clear answer as to what all he included in his figures. I have yet to get a clear answer from this elderly man. Each time I have to remind him of who I am and he never really gives me an answer to my questions. He has yet to return the insurance company's calls. However, until they can get him to explain, they will not accept another estimate. If I do submit them, they will use his letter to challenge the other estimates.</div>
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Today I had a contractor come out for accurate measurements of the kitchen and am proceeding to move full force to get my kitchen back into a safe and working order. My family should not have to continue this dance with our faithful insurance company!</div>
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Oh and during all this...we receive a letter dated March 23 ( my second corrected claim is dated March 17th) stating we need to make the necessary repairs and send documentation to our agent by July 13th. This is from the first claim that they only approved the replacement of flooring and repair of the cabinet. All that was on hold until we could get approval for cabinet replacement. Demolition and communication with the claims office began the first part of June. By June 6 we received another letter...they decided to cancel our insurance because they haven't received documentation by the requested time of July13th. I say all this to say, on the claim letter that came with our claim package it says we have up to two years to make the necessary repairs. Of course we aren't going to wait two years! The left hand apparently doesn't know what the right hand is doing! I would have had this all done by now, had the adjuster put the claim in correctly to start with. Instead I have had to jump through hoops and been required to submit request or receipts for any additional work that was needed apart from the original claim. I have yet to even cash the first check they sent us. Our agent did get us an extension. So, it's all up to them whether or not they want to keep us!</div>
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Every morning that I walk into our kitchen I feel the stress and frustration, maybe a <strike>LOT </strike>little anger, well up in me! Until I look up and see right there on the side of the kitchen cabinets, a sweet reminder!</div>
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In all things to be thankful! </div>
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Hopefully this won't turn into a Christmas adventure!</div>
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Where is Jake when you need him?!</div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-69007303055853642252014-06-26T19:38:00.000-04:002014-07-01T10:56:02.987-04:00Dear Generation XYZ....Sometimes a mama just needs to vent.....<br />
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You are spoiled brats!!! We as your parents have done you all a disservice. We have allowed you all to live in a fantasy world, afraid to see you fall or make a mistake. Wiping your little bottoms for you when the choices you have made leave behind your unmet dreams. Your dreams of entitlement need to end! You poor thing!<br />
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We have shoved you in a corner for a little timeout when really what you needed is a good swat on the behind! We have stood in the way and fought your battles for you, not allowing you to fight them for yourself! We have not only sanitized your hands from germs, we have sanitized your life so much that you have no idea how it feels to experience the joy of really living. Feeling what it's like to accomplish goals on your own.<br />
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Honoring your father and mother do you even know what that means? God never said stop when you reach a certain age!<br />
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Today I came home to two sinks of dirty dishes. This is not the first time either! Mind you .....I have been away for a few days. So, How long have they been sitting? The youngest three were with me. Leaving four adult children living under my roof. I provide food along with my chef services, shelter and even car insurance! I ask nothing from any of them in return! Maybe it's time to start?!<br />
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A couple of years ago when my husband injured his ankle I was left to juggle most ...ALL....of the household affairs. I remember standing in my yard with a gas weed eater hanging around my neck, red faced and killing myself. One of my dear children walks up to me. Never once saying mom let me do that. This young adult was too busy. Headed to a family event of a friend. All I did was stand there and say I need help around here. The response I got was "I help"...as he/she walked away. A few months later I see a sweet note of thank you to this child of mine for helping someone by doing their yard work for them. REALLY! Mind you ...I'm killing myself while allowing them to live here rent free and paying their car insurance too. Don't I feel special! Don't I feel honored! Don't I feel loved! Not really....<br />
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I love my kids but sometimes I really don't like being their mom! I have poured every ounce of my being into this calling and sacrifice. Boy have I sacrificed! My sanity that is! All for what? To lead by example? To show them the unconditional love that is instilled in my heart? <br />
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They just don't get it! What does a mom have to do to get a message to them? Hang a big sign around my neck saying...I will no longer be taken advantage of. I quit! Well I really can't stop being their mama! I don't want to either. All I want is for them to take up their own responsibilities. Contribute somehow to the household. Clean your room!!!!!! Do the damn dishes! ( I rarely cuss so maybe this will get their attention!) After all they are adults! Right? <br />
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If anyone needs me I'll be in my front yard holding a picket sign! So much for the time away to decompress from the stress! I think I just picked it back up!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-70437274567074507662014-06-04T16:28:00.001-04:002014-06-06T13:10:58.773-04:00The electronic divide...a challenge for the summer!With a few strokes of the keys, one can breathe life...or death... into the lives of those that surf the never ending wall of photos, quotes and just plain 'look at what I'm doing today' post. My how life has become so complicated, so self absorbed since the introduction of the world wide web. Social media. Information overload. At a moment's notice you can diagnose an illness or discover a long lost friend...or enemy. Instantly finding out who's hating who or who is loving who. Causing a great divide among friends and families. Secrets exposed. Thoughtless words written on a wall for all to see. Boldness behind words that would otherwise be thought about before they were ever spoken. If spoken at all. With a click of a "Like" button, a view of a heart exposed. Often finding myself gasping rather than cheering with excitement.<br />
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Before social media, friendships had real meaning. Real friendships include spending real time together, doing real events, making real connections. Investing ones self with time and attention. Now you can have hundreds of friends and never spend one second with any of them. What kind of friendship is that? Have we replaced meaningful friendships with superficial ones? I think I would rather have a few friends I can invest my time in rather than hundreds who all I do is sit and glimpse into their daily grind of life. Never really investing myself into that friendship. In fact, I'm hearing many young people questioning who their "REAL" friends are. Hearing them say... " I have no friends." Has social media distorted their definition of true friendship? Time wasted punching keys instead of investing ourselves into the lives of those we call friend...family. Time with handheld devices in front of our faces instead of eye to eye contact while having a meaningful conversation. Will our children even know what a real conversation looks like? Feels like?<br />
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Social media has replaced friendships and email has replaced handwritten letters. What was suppose to make life easier has really complicated and cluttered our lives. Our children will never know the beauty of a handwritten letter from a long lost friend. Do you even remember what it felt like to receive a handwritten letter? The uncomplicated moment of a true friendship. The embrace of an old friend whom they haven't seen in years while spending time catching up on life with them without the electronic screen in front of them. Hearing a friend's voice instead of reading their words. <br />
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My how life has changed! Oh for the days of electronic silence just to hear the laughter of our children as they run and play. Summertime friendships with mason jars and chasing fire flies. .lightening bugs. Running in the sprinklers. Laying on quilts at night as they gaze up at the stars. Riding bikes until dark...or the street lights come on. <br />
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What will their childhood memories be like? Will they care that every little bleep of their lives are recorded for all to see? What stories will they tell their children? Have we given our children a life worth relishing in when they grow old? How will the investments we make today pay out in our children's tomorrow? <br />
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Memories we make today will be the stories our children speak of tomorrow.....<br />
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I want to challenge you all! This summer take a 1 week break from ALL electronic devices. No Internet, NO TV. Just 1 week! This will take much planning but so worth it. Oh the silence! The first few days will be hard but the reward will be amazing! Take the time to give your full attention to a friend or family member. Go chase fire flies! Lay on a quilt at night and gaze up at the stars....I did this with my grandmother. It's one of my most favorite memories! Read a real book. Call an old friend and make a lunch date. Have a family sit down at the same table meal, at the same time. Listen to your kids voices. Their laughter. Play a real board game. Look your spouse in the eye and see what color their eyes are. Remind them of why they married you in the first place....way before the Internet! These are just some suggestions. Please share if you have others! I'm going to try and document my week and hope to share it with you here. Now... to challenge my family! SO...the challenge is starting with me. Hopefully they will follow. Have fun and let me know how you do! Oh, If you flop one day....don't get discouraged! Get back up and start again! The reward is in the trying!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-44828846818926966412014-02-27T16:56:00.002-05:002014-02-27T16:57:57.847-05:00Sticks and Stones...Words that Hurt Sticks and stones will break my bones but words will never hurt me!<br />
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I remember chanting these words as a child. Often as a response when a friend or sibling was hurt by someone's unthoughtfulness. But they do hurt! Those words. Often they catch you off guard during a moment when you least expect it.<br />
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Let's face it girls...Most of us will never have our prebaby bodies back! Never! The stretchmarks and the leftover baby bulge will forever be a part of the woman that you have become! The medal you wear...you have earned! So...wear it proud!<br />
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This 48 year old body has carried nine beautiful babies! I can honestly say I have cherished each 9 month journey that I took! In my head I am still that petite 100lb woman who chose to take this journey. My 5'3 frame of a body just hasn't got the message!<br />
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I have carefully tried not to ever compare myself to any photoshopped image on a page or screen. Mostly for my daughters...and for my own well being. However, Once you cross that compare line it's very difficult to reverse the damage that has been done. Walking this road will leave you frustrated and feeling defeated. <br />
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I do however think I have failed in the area of taking care of me. Thirty years of working on the inside but neglecting the outerpart. Exercise is very important...especially when you are a mom. Me...My time and energy is very limited. My energy reserves are very depleted. But that is all about to change!<br />
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Ladies....there is one rule you never break! NEVER NEVER NEVER ask a woman when they are due! Especially if you don't even know they are expecting! If you don't even know them personally! I have had this happen a few times ...some from perfect strangers. I have a very meek and mild personality. I usually laugh it off while dying on the inside. However, as this southern girl has aged that has all changed. Life has shown me that I don't have to always be quiet or polite when others fail at respect or common courtesy.<br />
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Today it happened again! My first response was...Excuse me? She said it again....the girl at the check out counter in the Christian bookstore. "When are you due?" As I stood there feeling embarrassed and very angry that someone that I didn't even know had just invaded my world. These words flew.<br />
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"I am not expecting"<br />
"That was very rude"<br />
"No 48 year old woman should be having a baby"<br />
"I never thought I would leave crying from a Christian Book store"<br />
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all she could say was sorry...Is sorry enough?<br />
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Enough for the humiliation and embarrassment that I felt?<br />
Enough for the tears that fell upon my face?<br />
Enough for the way I allowed these words to tear at the woman that I am? <br />
Enough for the way I allowed my insecurity to overwhelm and devour the woman that God says I am?<br />
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Me...I'm OK. I guess I should send her a thank you note for the motivation she gave me today. I can allow this to overwhelm me or I can take a good long look in the mirror and make some changes. <br />
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I think I'll take the changes....Changes for the good!<br />
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If you need me....I'll be that 48 year old pregnant looking lady walking the track!<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-34288692472572579242014-02-17T09:32:00.000-05:002014-02-17T11:11:31.770-05:00My Father...He did it againBe careful what you pray.<br />
Out of my desire to know His heart and know Him completely I asked....<br />
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When you ask God to take you deeper... He will.<br />
He will reach into those deepest places of your heart and pull out all the dark rotted matter that rest upon your soul.<br />
He will take you on a journey like no-other. <br />
He will take you to a place that leads straight to His heart...the pure one.<br />
He will mold and fill those empty spaces that keep you from fully knowing Him...knowing Him completely.<br />
He...your Father will show you an unconditional love that no man(human) can ever show.<br />
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Yes my God...my very own heart surgeon has done it again. He dug deep and pulled me close to His heart. He reached in and took another piece that I have been hanging on too. Tearing away that dark rotted matter. The things that keep Him from fully having my heart. The things that steal the joy. The peace. The freedom.<br />
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Freedom in knowing Him completely. <br />
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There is nothing more beautiful than the moment when my Father pulls me close to His heart and says rest. Stay a while. I've got this. Trust me. Lay it at my feet.<br />
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and leave it here.<br />
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The real beauty of laying it down and finally finding the rest in knowing Him.<br />
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.....and all I did was ask Him to take me deeper! <br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7183365662869865443.post-70920114285356466932014-02-03T16:21:00.002-05:002014-02-03T16:25:44.583-05:00The dance.....with my Father!<br />
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There is something so sweet and beautiful about watching a young bride as she dances with her father on her special day. Soon our very own daughter will be lovingly embraced by the love of my life. I look forward to watching this sweet moment. I must admit this is the part that gets me everytime. A little jealous I guess. But nonetheless a very sweet moment that I get lost in. Usually fighting back the tears.<br />
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My own dad passed away when I was thirteen. At the time of my wedding we didn't even have music or dancing at our reception. This was probably a wise move that saved me a lot of emotional heartache. Although my sweet step-dad would have more than filled the void that rest in my soul, had I thought to include this into the ceremony.<br />
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Many of you may think I'm crazy....maybe I am! I really am not much into visions...however I think God does work at times in this area. Sometimes He has to get our attention in ways we least expect it. Even times that we least expect. Caution in this area is always wise. <br />
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A few weeks ago I received a sweet gift that was so unexpected. It caught me off guard! That's just how our heavenly Father works. The funny thing is, I can't even remember the worship song that was being played. While standing in church my heart was grasped by my Father. As He took my hand He began to swirl me around and smile with the biggest smile I have ever seen. I remember dancing and laughing as He...My Father....gave me the sweetest most unexpected gift....My daddy daughter dance! With tears in my eyes I felt His great love fill a void that I had forgotten was there. A dance that I will never forget! Me a beautiful bride dancing with her father. Thirty years later but in the most perfect time.<br />
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I am so amazed at how my Father knows me so well. He knows those deepest places in my soul. The ones no one ever sees. In His time He fills. He heals. He loves. He smiles. He dances with his girl! He fills those broken places that only He can. How amazing is that?! Me....I just had to be that willing vessel. The empty one with those broken places. <br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10541019079857673888noreply@blogger.com0