Where's My Water-Proof Mascara?

Of all the days to forget water-proof mascara... what an overjoyed mess I've been today!

This morning, Chris led the congregation in worship as he played guitar and sang, something he's done countless times. But this morning was different -- I was watching my husband, the love of my life and best friend, now as the music pastor of our new church. Following him in preaching was David. I've listened to him teach a thousand times it seems since we were in high school Bible study together. But I couldn't help but see him in a new light, too, as I listened to him preach now as the pastor of our new church. Shoulder-to-shoulder I stood with my best friend Laura as we held hands and dabbed our eyes, completely overcome with pride in our husbands and amazement of how God is setting His plans into motion. Oh, how I love my friend. After the service, they had our team stand in front of the church to recognize us all and allow for everyone to come and greet us. The handshakes, hugs, words of wisdom and teary-eyed well-wishes were enough to make a heart swell ten times its size. I've never felt more supported in my life.

This evening, our guys were honored as they were ordained by our church. Our pastor, Robert, explained that ordination is the church's formal recognition of God's calling for Chris and David to do ministry. (As a side note, he also explained that we're ALL ordained for ministry.) The ordination involved the guys being examined individually by Robert and then together by all of the deacons. They were then brought before the congregation who was given a vote to ordain, of which they voted yes. There were a few testimonies given on behalf of Chris and David. The word used over and over again to describe each of them was "integrity", which is so evident to Laura and me. Then the congregation was invited to come forth and pray for us - the guys seated in front of the congregation and us wives standing behind them. Our present and past college students came first, followed by family and close friends, then the deacons and finally the pastoral team. The prayers offered up on our behalf were things our team has prayed since we began dreaming of a ministry in Fort Collins. It was so affirming to hear our prayers echoed by such wise, Godly people. I admit I opened my eyes and peaked a few times. I just wanted to soak it all in. We were surrounded by our own personal heroes of faith.

A reception was held in our honor following the ordination service. The room was packed! I'll never forget how Hannah ran non-stop through the room, greeting everyone and coercing people to give her more cookies, fruit and punch. Someone once told us before Hannah was born that she would be the church's baby, and now I fully understand what that means. Everyone adores her and I truly think she would go home with any one of our church family members.

We're so grateful for our church family. Their influence has played a significant role in who we are and what we do. We're so appreciative of all that Colonial Hills has done for our families and plan to take anyone who is willing to Fort Collins with us. Thanks to all of our family and close friends who came to celebrate with us on our big day!

Thanks A Bunch

“Our prayers for you are always spilling over into thanksgivings. We can't quit thanking God our Father and Jesus our Messiah for you!” Colossians 1:3

Words cannot express my gratitude for the support and generosity shown to us by our family and friends yesterday at the Fort Collins Flapjack Fundraiser. Over 60 families were represented, 15 volunteers cooked, served and cleaned, and more than $3,500 was raised. To put it simply, I am overwhelmed and humbled. Thank you!

A special thank you to The Diner who graciously allowed us to host this event. We appreciate you so much, Lloyd and Tresa Nichols! (And if you're reading this and you've never eaten at The Diner, you don't know what you're missing!)

To see more pictures from our event, please click here: Flapjack Fundraiser Pictures.

Meal Mondays For All!

A friend of mine told me last week that she loved that I did Meal Mondays. All four times, right? Well I have to say that I've found a way for everyone to have their own customized menus planned for them in advance without having to do all of the work! You should check it out at e-mealz.com For $1.25 a week, they actually put together a weekly meal menu, along with a grocery list at the store of your choice and the final cost averages about $35 for two people and $75 for four to six people. It's kind of a no-brainer for this crazy busy girl! I just know that for our family, it's best to have a plan for the week. Our household is run more efficiently and we're not bleeding money through the nose on fast food. Anyway, when I hear of a cool deal like this I have to share!

My Hippy Babe

Hannah's comprehension is ever-growing. While she can only say a few words, she understands so much of what we say. I was folding laundry and I would tell her, "Hannah, put your shirt on." And as anyone can tell, my child is pretty compliant and definitely a people pleaser. So she would pick up the laundry and put it on her head as if to put on a shirt. So I finally helped her into one of my shirts and she thought it was super funny, as did I!

I Heart The Huckabees

Tonight, our friends Jay and Rebekah came over with their twins Jackson and Haven to hang out. We swam, ate tacos and stayed up late watching Alice in Wonderland. Hannah was so sweet with the babies, who are eight months now, and even gave Jackson tons of kisses (don't tell Josiah). We're so grateful to have the Huckabee family in our life. Their friendship has been a blessing to us for the past 10 years and it's one of those rare, genuine relationships you'll have forever. There were tons of picturesque moments from the night. Of course, we had our hands full the entire evening and the camera wasn't always handy. But here's one of me and Haven. She's truly a miracle baby! I know she and Hannah will grow up to be best gal pals like me and Rebekah!

SWAGGER WAGON

I learned to drive in my Mom's minivan. Now after being on the road for 12 years or so, I'm thinking of returning to my roots after seeing this video. Enjoy! Happy Friday!

A Few Old Pictures

I was cleaning off an old digital camera today when I found these pictures. They were taken when Hannah and I visited The Suttons last summer while Chris was on a mission trip to Guatemala. Hannah and Josiah had the same jammies, and so we snapped a few pictures right before we laid them down to sleep. Needless to say, they weren't quite as amused as their Mamas were.

Laura and I have decided they will either get married or totally and utterly hate each other one day. :) But for now, they're great friends! I love that they will go to school together and even be in the same grade!

You're Invited:

Fort Collins Flap Jack Fundraiser

Sunday, June 6

6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

The Diner

You are invited to an all-you-can-eat pancake dinner and photography auction hosted by The Diner!

All-you-can-eat pancakes are $5.00 per person.

A silent auction will feature Colorado photography that is framed, matted and ready to display.

This event benefits the missionary team that includes David, Laura and Josiah Sutton and our family as we move to Colorado this summer. To learn more about what we're doing, visit iheartfortcollins.com.