God's Love is like a circle

I put up a new bulletin board in our children's area at church recently. It's a mix of valentine cut-outs and a song that talks about God's love.

The song is called, "God's Love is like a circle" and it is sung to the tune of "Stand up, stand up for Jesus." I started teaching it today in Sunday School. It's really easy to learn.

God's love is like a circle, a circle big and round, For when you see a circle no ending can be found!

And so the love of Jesus goes on eternally; forever and forever I know that He loves me.

Happy Valentine's Day! Know that Jesus loves you very much and thank Him for His love today.:)

Merry Christmas from our house to yours....

Just wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas from me and Q!

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11

I came across this video recently, and I just had to share it with you all. It's the "Hallelujah Chorus", which is one of my most favorite songs of the season. I thought it would have been neat to be a part of this flash mob...maybe someday! What struck me was the fact that it was this song and not a secular Christmas tune. What an awesome thing to proclaim "For the Lord God omnipotent reigneth" in front of so many people. Enjoy and sing along!

"My Spirit Rejoices" Christmas concert

It's been almost two weeks since the Longmont Chorale Christmas concert, so it's about time I told you about it. ;) I thought that I could figure out how to download the video of my solo, but even with Q's help, we're having a hard time. We're still trying to figure out the new camera, so at least I can use it for pictures in the meantime. Hopefully, I'll be able to share that video with you some time in the near future.

The concert went really well. It was longer than the last one, but we made it through. My solo was the second number for the chorale. I didn't think Q was going to make it, but he did just in time. When we went down for the intermission, I walked down the side aisle, and he reached over at me and said, "You did a great job!" It encouraged my heart so much. He brought one of the people he works for so I had a few seconds to chat with him, too.

I was thankful that the Lord helped me through the solo, as I had not been feeling well that week. It turns out that I had infection I didn't suspect I had until the night of the concert. I went to the doctor on Monday morning for some antibiotics and that helped so much.

I had lots of encouragement from the director, other chorale members and folks in the audience. Being one of the soloists has opened doors in different ways. People have asked if I have had training and if I'd be willing to teach them (yes and yes:). Conversations also turn to my being a Christian and that I sing a lot in my church. It's neat how the Lord is using this one opportunity for me to build relationships with many people.

The first half of the program included contemplative songs, like a few renditions of "Ave Maria." We also sang, "Angels we have heard on High" and the small group sang, "Still, Still, Still." I was glad to sing songs about the real meaning of Christmas.

The second half of the program had more fun songs like, "Out on the Housetop," and "Mary's Boy Chile." By the time we were done, we were so tired, but glad that everything went well. I had a lot of fun and can't wait until the next concert. God continues to give me opportunities to witness for Him and to establish new friendships.

God is good! He is the reason we celebrate the season.:)

I had an exciting phone call last night!

It's been a bit more than twenty-four hours since I got an exciting call yesterday. In fact, it took me longer than usual to fall asleep last night because I was sooo hyped up! This is definitely something the Lord has orchestrated and I'm so thankful.

So, you want to hear about it?

A few weeks ago, I started practicing a couple of solos in the repertoire for the Chorale's Christmas concert. Recently, the director began holding auditions for the different solos available. There were several openings, for both men and women. At the first audition available, I waited with several others after practice to try out for two solos from John Rutter's Magnificat. One of them was especially challenging, so that's why I decided to try out for the other one.

Since the last auditions were this past Monday, I wondered when any of us would find out. I even emailed a new friend about it, asking her if she knew anything. In a couple of notes, she told me that she just knew I got the harder song--which is the most gorgeous one you've ever heard. I heard a teen girl sing it right before practice this past week, and I just knew I had no chance of getting it. She had an incredible voice and I would be glad for her if she got it. God has given me many opportunities to serve Him with my voice, so I gave up the idea that I got any of the solos I tried out for.

Then last night, I pulled out some music and started practicing. I sing tomorrow morning in church so I wanted to be ready for that. Then I started singing the harder song I tried out for called, "Et misericordia" (if you want to hear it, you can go to YouTube and google it). A few minutes later, the phone rang. It was the director. He said, "You got the song that everyone wanted...including the altos and basses who can't sing it (because of it's high range). I'd like you to do 'Et misericordia.' I liked how you sang it, especially at the end." The ending of the song ends in a high A but has to be soft and not loud--a very hard thing to do (I don't think I've got it all of the time, but I'm working on it!).

I couldn't believe it--and I told him that, too. I thought that I actually sang the other one better, but he thought otherwise. Plus, after hearing someone else sing it that I thought would have gotten it, I was surprised to even get the call. Praise the Lord! God is good to give this opportunity to me. The song is in Latin and is sung with the choir. The director wants me to be ready to sing it at each practice from here on out. He also wants me and the other gal who got the other solo to learn both songs in case one of us gets sick on the day of the concert.

I'm thankful that God has graciously given this neat opportunity to me. I want to be a testimony to others through this. To God be the glory!

Monkey story time

I started back up again as a story teller for the library. Each month, I'll do two story times at the local recreation center's day care. I had so much fun with the kids this week. They are a cute bunch!

This month's theme was monkeys. I found a new "hello" song to sing with the kids when I arrived.

"Hello Time" (to the tune of "Oh, Susanna")

Oh, it's time to say hello, hello

Hello and how are you?

Oh, it's time to say hello, hello

To everyone of you.

Hello friends, a big "hello" to you!

We will sing and read and laugh today,

Yes, this is what we'll do.

The first book I read was the classic, Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina. A peddler rests by a tree and discovers that his caps have been taken by several monkeys. I won't tell you the end, but it is a fun one to read if you haven't done so already.

I pulled out Marvin Monkey out of my bag to greet the kids. He also helped me tell the poem, "Jonathan Bing."

Poor old Jonathan Bing

went out in his carriage to visit the King,

But everyone pointed and said, "Look at that!

Jonathan Bing has forgotten his hat!"

(He'd forgotten his hat!)

Poor old Jonathan Bing

went home and put on a new hat for the King,

But by the palace the soldier said, "Hi!

You can't see the King; you've forgotten your tie!"

(He'd forgotten his tie!)

Poor old Jonathan Bing,

He put on a beautiful tie for the King,

But when he arrived, and Archbishop said, "Ho!

You can't come to court in pajamas, you know!"

Poor old Jonathan Bing

went home and addressed a short not to the King:

"If you please will excuse me, I won't come to tea;

For home's the best place for all people like me!"

The next two books I read were Monkey and Me by Emily Gravett and Five Little Monkeys sitting in a tree, by Eileen Christelow. After that last book, I used a glove puppet with five little monkeys and a crocodile to retell the story with the kids.

One by one those monkeys disappeared as I told the poem...

Five little monkeys swinging in a tree.

Teasing Mr. Crocodile, "You can't catch me! You can't catch me!"

Along comes Mr. Crocodile, as quiet as can be and he... (the children use two hands with palms together to clap shut like a crocodile's mouth.)

SNAPPED that monkey right out of the tree!

Continue the poem, but begin the succeeding verses with four, three, two, and finally, one little monkey. The last verse is said as follows:

No more monkeys swinging in the tree,

Only Mr. Crocodile

Happy as can be!

As I ended the story time, I brought Marvin Monkey back out to give the kids a hug. I sang the same good-bye song as last year. It's sung to the tune of the "Mickey Mouse good-bye song."

Now it's time to say good-bye,

good-bye to all of you,

Have a great day; read some good books

And I'll see you real soon.

I can't wait until next month--I'll be sure to tell you about it. Hope it gives you ideas on a story time you can do with the children in your life. :)

Until next time...

First concert

This past weekend was a very busy one for me and another 130 singers! The Longmont Chorale (the group I'm in) and the Laudamus Chorale from Fort Collins joined together for two fabulous concerts.

All the songs that were sung had a "water" theme to them. My two favorites were "Shall we gather at the river" (hymn/spiritual) and "The Seal Lullaby" by Eric Whitacre. Each chorale sang songs separately, then there were other groups who did one or two numbers each.

We heard wonderful comments from the friends we invited. It was so much fun, too! One of my friends, Leah, took the following picture for me with her amazing camera. Look at the huge choir! (Can you find me?:)

The following video is of the small group I'm in called the Chorale Singers. This is only one of our songs. I tried downloading the other one called "Ecco mormorar l'onde" by Monterverdi (a challenging Italian piece, by the way), but it didn't work. This one is of "Away from the Roll of the Sea" by Allister MacGillivray. Enjoy!

Rejoicing in the Lord

I've been praising the Lord all week as I heard some good news from my doctor. I've had some health issues, so I've been visiting the clinic more often this past month or so. It wasn't clear as to what was going on, and thankfully, it's nothing serious.

During my time of wondering what was going on, the Lord comforted my heart. I've been through some pretty hard physical things these last three years, but this recent one got me really scared. I remembered that since the Lord helped me through two surgeries and emotional miscarriages, then he was going to help me through this one.

At a time when God has been doing some wonderful things in our lives, I wondered if this new health challenge would interrupt some of those things. My life is really in His hands, and I have to trust Him no matter what He puts in my path. His plans are always better than ours, even if we have to endure hard things.

I've been reading and studying Psalm 91 this past week. It's been a great encouragement to me. Read it some time, and you'll see what I mean. These few verses are my favorites:

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust." (verses 1 &2)

"Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name." (verse 14)

There are people in the Bible that went through some hard circumstances--Job and Joseph are among my favorites. Despite physical hardships and opposition from even family, they continued to praise the Lord. It is my desire that with what seems to be my "thorn in the flesh" (health struggles), that I can praise the Lord and point others to do the same. I want Christ to be seen in me where ever I go, even when I'm hurting. God is working in me as I go through pain--and it's okay, because He is drawing me closer to Himself.

I love the words to the song, "Rejoice in the Lord" by Ron Hamilton. I've known it since I was a kid, but in recent years, it has brought tears to my face as it means so much to me now.

God never moves without purpose or plan,

When trying his servant and molding a man,

Give thanks to the Lord though your testing seems long;

In darkness He giveth a song.

I could not see through the shadows ahead;

So I looked at the cross of my Savior instead.

I bowed to the will of the Master that day;

Then peace came and tears fled away.

Now I can see testing comes from above;

God strengthens His children and purges in love.

My Father knows best, and I trust in His care;

Through purging more fruit I will bear.

O rejoice in the Lord. He makes no mistake.

He knoweth the end of each path that I take.

For when I am tried and purified,

I shall come forth as gold.

There are some of you out there that knew I was going through some things, so thanks for your prayers. I am continually resting in the Lord, knowing that His plans are always best. To God be the glory!

I made it!

I've got some BIG NEWS!!

Just wanted to tell you all that I made it into the Longmont Singers group--yahoo! I'm really excited to be a part of this smaller group that will get to perform a few extra concerts during the year. I'm thankful that God has opened this opportunity for me.

When I went to the first rehearsal for the main chorale, I found out that I needed an outfit that consisted of a long-sleeved black blouse and a floor-length black skirt. Thankfully, I recently bought the right skirt at the local thrift store for 99 cents! I've been on the hunt for the right blouse, and today, I found one for eight dollars at another thrift/consignment shop. For under ten dollars, I've got a new choir outfit....

Now, all I've got to do is learn all the songs.:) It's going to be a lot of fun and I can't wait!

The Longmont Chorale

All summer I had been waiting for the opportunity to try something new in the community--to join a chorale! I found out about the Longmont Chorale through searching the web. I started off by looking at something closer to home, but just couldn't find it. The rehearsal location in Longmont is about twenty-five minutes away and since it just requires my time once a week, I figured I could do this.

Well, last night was the first rehearsal of the season. I first visited a few months ago just to check it out and I was impressed. The Chorale is a non-audition group comprised of over 100 singers from all ages. They perform a few concerts during the year.

There is something else that caught my attention about the chorale....

The Longmont Singers!!!

Within the chorale is a smaller group comprised of about 25 singers. To get into this group you have to audition. I went to the audition after the regular rehearsal. All I had to do was sight read the Soprano 1 line for a few pages. I thought it was pretty easy. Now, it's the waiting game. As I don't know what spots are open, it's hard to tell if I'll get in this year, but I hope so. I should know within the next week and a half. (I will keep you posted, of course!) Besides singing an extra number or two at the concerts, this group also performs at nursing homes and local events. The pieces they do are more challenging, too, but I think this is right up my alley. If the Lord opens this up for me, I'll be excited to join.

I think getting involved like this is a neat way for me to meet people and be a testimony for Christ. I'd also like to keep strengthening my vocal skills as it will help me as I continue on in music ministry at our church.

Are any of you involved in a community group? I'd love to hear what you all are doing in your neighborhood.:)

A Summer Evening of Music

Several years ago, I was involved in concerts that my friend, Kelly, called A Summer Evening of Music. For two summers, she and I along with two others presented a collection of music with our instruments--the voice, piano, trumpet and flute. We played and sang classical, broadway and sacred numbers. Those were great times as we challenged ourselves working on numbers for months before each concert.

A couple of months ago, Q came up with the idea to do a summer concert at our church. Before we left our church in Fort Collins, we wanted Ashley and Nathan to come down to our new church and play their instruments. I taught both of them in elementary school, and both were in Q's youth group. So, Q planned another Summer Evening of Music with them in mind and added me and our piano player, Shelly into the mix.

Q sent out invitations to a few small churches and two of them showed up! With our regular church folk and the musicians' families, the auditorium was packed. It was a blessing to give praise to God in our sacred concert.

Here are a few pictures of last night.... 

Here is Nathan warming up before the concert. He began the evening by playing, "Grace that is greater than all our sin." He will be starting college this fall, majoring in music.

Shelly was a busy lady--not only did she accompany all of us, but she played two beautifully arranged hymns. My favorite was "Have you any room for Jesus?" 

I sang a few of my favorite songs including "All of These" by Craig Curry and "Were You There?"(a traditional spiritual). 

Between Shelly and I is our talented flute player, Ashley. She will be a senior in college this year, finishing up her studies in flute performance. She's working on getting her recital ready which will take place in the fall. An offering was taken which will be a big help to Ashley and Nathan as they continue their education.

At the end of the concert, Q preached a short message on Psalm 29:2 which says, "Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness." We were reminded to give God glory and to worship Him in holiness. Q's thought-provoking insights were such a blessing to us.

This is Allison, Shelly's middle girl. All three girls are so special to me, as I taught a couple of them in Kindergarten. 

Last night was absolutely wonderful and I hope that we can do something like this again. I am thankful that we can praise God with our voices and instruments. I've talked to many who think that they can't really sing because they don't have a "gift," but God says to "make a joyful noise unto Him." He didn't say we have to have perfect pitch! So, be encouraged...sing unto Him, praise Him with your voice or whatever instrument you have, and give glory unto His name today!

Easter "Sonrise" service

We had a wonderful Easter Sunday. The first thing we did was have a "Sonrise" service in honor of God's Son, Jesus Christ who died for our sins and rose again! Twenty-three of us met a couple blocks away from the church at a small park in the middle of some businesses and homes. 

It was a bit chilly and sunny at eight-thirty in the morning. We sang a couple hymns and read Scripture together. Q shared a few words then prayed. Then we walked back to the church and ate a potluck breakfast.

There were lots of delicious things to eat...fruit salad, breakfast casseroles, and some sweet treats!

Pastor Kemper taught a great Sunday School lesson. Q told me about it later because I was downstairs teaching my lesson. After the lesson, I was able to share the resurrection eggs with Crystal, my one regular student. We had a regular service full of music and a message celebrating Christ's resurrection. We were short-handed in the nursery so after I sang my solo, I watched Kiala (yes, it's the same "Kyla" I watch sometimes in my home...I just learned the real spelling of her name!)

After giving her a snack, I told her the Easter story using the resurrection eggs in simple words she could understand. We did them a few times and by the time church was done, she said, "blood went down his neck" (after talking about the crown of thorns). Even though she is so young, I pray that the Lord will begin working in her heart through Bible stories she hears now.

After church, Q and I went out to lunch at Olive Garden. We also stopped at a book store and just looked around. We decided to attend another church for the evening service (since we weren't going to have one), so we left early to attend their 5 o'clock service. When we arrived, it didn't look like anyone was there. They must have done what we did! So, we got back on the road and Q said that we'd go to our former church in Fort Collins. We were so excited to see everyone. We thoroughly enjoyed the service and the fellowship afterward. 

At the end of his message, Pastor Redlin read a poem by John Newton. I immediately recognized the words and whispered to Q, "Those are the words to my song." Most of the words to the poem were set to music. The song I sang yesterday morning is called, "He Died for Me" (arranged by James Koerts). 

Here are the words for you to be encouraged by as well...

I saw One hanging on a tree in agony and blood. 

He fixed his languid eyes on me as near his cross I stood.

Sure, never till my latest breath can I forget that look.

It seemed to charge me with his death, though not a word he spoke.

My conscience felt and owned the guilt, and plunged me in despair;

I saw my sins his blood had spilt and helped to nail him there.

Alas! I knew not what I did; but now my tears are vain.

Where shall my trembling soul be hid? For I the Lord have slain.

A second look he gave which said, 

"I freely all forgive.

This blood is for your your ransom paid,

I die that you may live."

Chorus: How can it be that on a tree the Savior died for me?

My soul is thrilled, my heart is filled to think he died for me.

After spending a good time chatting with our friends, we went out to eat with the new youth pastor and his wife. This was their first Sunday. It was great getting to know them. Q encouraged them in the ministry. I thought that was a neat opportunity, and one that the Lord definitely orchestrated.

Our hearts were blessed on this wonderful day! 

How was your Easter? I would love to hear what you did with your family and friends.:)

But Still He Loved Me

I am amazed at how much God loves us every single day. He's patient, forgiving and always has the best in store for us. When we're discouraged, full of heartaches, and our world seems to be upside-down, He wraps us around with His loving arms. 

This heart imprinted on my window gave me a reminder of God's love for me.

As we've been approaching Easter, I've been thinking a lot about how much Jesus suffered as He was ridiculed, beaten and hung on the cross--all because He loves us. My pains, both physical and emotional cannot compare to what He went through. And when I've shed tears and my heart is aching, I know He understands.

He loves you and me more than anything! I'm so thankful, aren't you?

I love the song, "But Still He Loved Me" by John R. Wyatt. It's one I sang on Easter a couple years ago. I'd like to leave you with the words....

But Still He Loved Me

I scourged the back of Jesus, with thorns, I crowned His head,

I cursed Him and I mocked Him, I longed to see Him dead.

I laughed with scorn as I followed Him up the path to Calvary,

I nailed His hands upon a cross, And His blood ran at my feet.

But still He loved me, Near death forgave me,

By grace He saved me, from all my sin.

My heart is filled with pain, as I beheld the stain

His blood has made for me at Calvary.

His friends removed His lifeless form, the King of the Jews was dead.

They took Him to His palace, and there they laid His head.

His palace was a cold dark tomb around which guard did tread,

and then that morn they cried, "He's gone," He had risen from the dead.

Yet still He loved me, thro' death forgave me,

By grace He saved me, from all my sins.

He now lives in my heart from where He'll ne'er depart

this Christ who died for me at Calvary.

Have a wonderful Easter! 

Dr. Seuss story time

It was story time again at the local recreation center's day care. Story telling is right up my alley, so each month it has been fun preparing a program for my two groups.

Since it was Dr. Seuss's birthday earlier this month, the day care asked if my story time could revolve around that theme. I found a picture book called, The Boy on Fairfield Street: How Ted Geisel Grew up to become Dr. Seuss, by Kathleen Krull. I read it to get a background on this famous children's author.

I borrowed this Cat in the Hat hat from the library. I walked into the day care wearing it and the kids loved it! 

I began by having the kids sing the opening song with me--"When ducks get up in the morning." Then, I shared three fun facts about Dr. Seuss before reading his first published book, And to think I saw it on Mulberry Street. Because one of the things the boy imagines is a brass band, I had the kids sing "The Finger Band" song with me. It's to the tune of "Here we go 'round the Mulberry Bush" so it's really easy to learn. I had the kids do the motions with me as we sang each verse.

The finger band is coming to town, coming to town, coming to town, 

The finger band is coming to town, so early in the morning. (wiggle fingers as they're pulled out from behind your back)

This is the way they wear their hats.....

This is the way they wave their flags.....

This is the way they beat their drums.....

This is the way they blow their horns.....

The finger band is going away, going away, going away,

The finger band is going away, so early in the morning. (sing quieter and wiggle fingers as they are put behind your back)

After the song, I read one of my favorite kids' books called, Are you my mother? by P.D. Eastman. After this, we did the following fingerplay:

Baby Bird

We are baby robins in a nest.

We are yawning...nodding...stretching.

We have all been fed,

And now we're in bed.

We are yawning...nodding...stretching.

The last book I read was another Dr. Seuss favorite. Perhaps it's one of yours, too. There's a Wocket in my Pocket is a fun story full of rhyming words and silly characters.

After this book, I asked the kids if they had wockets in their pockets. They dug in their pockets as I did mine. Then, one by one, I began pulling things that were not wockets, but they each had a piece of paper with a Dr. Seuss quote attached to them. In three of my pockets I had a toy car, domino, and wooden bead. The last pocket revealed a special guest....

...the Cat in the Hat! I borrowed this finger puppet from the library as well. The kids thought it was neat that he and I had matching hats.

I found some Dr. Seuss quotes from the internet to use for this fun activity. The ones I used were the following:

From there to here, from here to there, funny things are everywhere.

Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.

If you never did you should. These things are fun and fun is good.

The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.

To go along with the "cat in the hat" theme, I read this poem to them:

One little cat on a sunny day

Put on his hat and went out to play.

Two little cats when it started getting dark

Put on their hats and went to the park.

Three little cats when the sky was blue

Put on their hats and went to the zoo.

Four little cats by the kitchen door

Put on their hats and went to the store.

Five little cats on a sunny day

Put on their hats and they all ran away.

I made these hat finger puppets to use with that poem. I placed them on my fingers one at a time as I read about each cat. They were made with felt and were super easy to make!

Before I left, I shared one more Dr. Seuss quote:

Today is gone. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.

Then, we sang our good-bye song. This story time was a lot of fun! It made me laugh when one of the kids said that when they got home, they were going to check to see if they had any wockets in their pockets.;)

Hope this gives you some ideas on sharing books, songs and poetry with the kids in your life.

It is well with my soul

These past few weeks have been filled with many emotions. I hope that by writing about the recent experience I have had, that I can be an encouragement to others.

In early February, Q and I found out we were expecting a little one. Because I had already lost a baby, I didn't know how excited I should be. The timing seemed just right; for the first time in a long time, I was content with however God would give us a child. But, two weeks later, I found myself in the doctor's office because things just didn't seem right. After a couple tests, he concluded that I had an ectopic pregnancy. The way to remove the baby from my only tube was to have an injection. He was hopeful and said that I could come in after the weekend to double check if I had a baby in my uterus. That night, I began having some pain and bleeding, so the next day, Q and I went to the Emergency Room. Although I wasn't very far along, we didn't want to take any chances with what could happen if the pain or bleeding increased. The doctors there confirmed the same thing, so we went ahead with the injection. I cried off and on with Q at my side. 

Although I was trying to be "cautious" with my excitement when I found out I was pregnant, I really wanted this baby to be okay. I wanted to be a mother this year. But God had another plan for this baby and He has a different plan for us.

Now I have two babies in Heaven. They are rejoicing with God. Some day I will see them, hug them and will not want to let go. 

Physically, I'm doing well. Because having an ectopic pregnancy increases the chances of having another one, I'm not sure what the future holds for me. Emotionally, it's still hard. Some days, I feel just fine, but when the tears come, they last a couple days at a time. It was really hard at first to be motivated to do things around the house, but I'm getting better with that. You may have noticed that I haven't blogged as much or that I haven't done a lot of crafting. This is why. I'm in the midst of redoing my to-do lists and praying about what God wants me to do in the days ahead.

I'm grateful for my family and the friends close by who have reached out to me in different ways. They've all prayed. Some have sent cards and made numerous phone calls when I was in the midst of the doctor's visits.

I received this Willow Tree figurine from a college friend this past weekend. It brought me to tears when I opened it. I am glad that I now have something to look at that gives me hope. If I never get to hold my own child here on earth, this is what Heaven will look like for me and my babies.

Finally, I am thankful to God for many things. Without Him, I couldn't be going through this with so much peace and contentment. Sure, it hasn't been always easy, but knowing that God has been with me through this second loss, has helped me so much. Even though it's hard to think of the future right now, I know that God is "able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to they power that worketh in us." (Ephesians 3:20) He's got a great plan for me and Q. I can't wait to find out how all this is going to come out for our good and for His glory. I'm also thankful that the Lord took care of me physically because of the danger associated with this type of pregnancy. God is good all the time. 

One of the songs that has meant a lot to me lately is "It is Well." I video taped myself playing it on the piano. It's still a bit hard to sing, but someday I'll be able to again. 

"When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll; 

Whatever my lot, thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul....

Please keep us in your prayers as we look to God with this area in our lives. We appreciate all of you very much!

The day finally came...

...for us to go see Mary Poppins! This was my Valentine's Day gift, but Friday was the earliest date we could go see the show. I've been so excited these past few weeks! Right as we left, Q gave me this gorgeous plant:

It's called a cyclamen. The blooms are so unique and bright, and I love them. Q also handed me a card, but he said it was for me to open up later. We set out for a place to eat dinner. We pulled up in front of Cinzetti's, but we were a half hour early. So, we spent some time at a nearby Border's store until the restaurant opened.

We took this picture as we waited to be seated. We were so hungry and couldn't wait to dig into their many delicious choices. Their top-of-the-line buffet filled us up, but we still managed to have room for dessert!

One thing we both tried was this berry tartlet. It was sweet and delicious! When we were done eating, we got back in the car and headed down to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. We had a bit of difficulty finding parking, but we made it to the show a few minutes before it began.

I saw some clips of the show some time ago, never thinking I'd actually get to go to it live, so I was thrilled to actually be there with Q. The story line is based both on the book by P.L. Travers and the Disney movie. There are familiar songs, as well as some new ones. My favorite was Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, because each letter was given a hand gesture, so the entire cast did this together as they sang. It was really impressive! Q liked Step in Time which included Bert and the Chimney Sweeps. Bert was played by Gavin Lee, a long-time cast member who has played the role both in New York and London. During the song, he climbed up the sides and top of the stage (upside down with cables tied to him, of course). It was very cool!

After the show, I asked Q if I could have the card. He said to wait, but we were going to be heading home in a few minutes. He had other plans which I didn't know about. After we walked out of the theater, we came across some steps that looked very familiar. He had me sit down on them, although it was a bit chilly. He pulled out the card and had me open it. You see, this was where he proposed to me almost five years ago. I read the card and it brought a few tears to my eyes. It was very sweet and so special.

Thank-you, Q, for a fun night with you! I love you.:)

The sound of music....

When we first moved into the parsonage, Q said, "Someday, I'd like a piano right there" as he pointed to a corner of the living room. That someday came very quickly, as we have welcomed this beauty into our home in recent days.

Our almost-100-year-old piano is such a blessing to us already. To make a long story short, someone called the church saying they had a piano to give away to the church. Since the church didn't need it, we asked if we could buy it for a certain amount. After we paid the movers, the church accepted a small amount for it.

Not only does it sound great, but we also love its classic look. I am thankful that I now have a real piano to practice my songs for church. It's also been wonderful to relax and play while I take a break from household chores. I can already picture friends and family joining us in song around our piano.

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Psalm 100:1-2

My new opportunity in the community

After living here in Lafayette for about a month, I started thinking about what I could do to meet people and have an outlet in the community. I was also missing teaching. This is my first year out after 12 years in the same Christian school. I really wanted to do something outside the home that didn't require full-time work, so I began praying and looking. 

One thing I had considered for a time in our last town was to volunteer at the public library. So, I filled out an application on-line for the one here. I got a message back saying that they wanted to interview me. At the interview, I was told of a couple opportunities that I could do, so I started getting excited. While the librarian looked at my application, she noticed that I had a lot of teaching experience. She thought that perhaps I could be a story teller at a daycare in the future because they had already started their training. She also said that if there was an opening later, then the night they met was on Wednesdays (the night we have church prayer meeting). I told her of my interest in doing it, but if it didn't work out then I understood. I told Q later that the other position was to just be an aid in the children's department straightening books and sharpening pencils. It didn't sound like an exciting thing to do, but he thought I should just do it anyway to get out of the house and get to know people in the community.

Next thing you know, the librarian contacts me and says that there is an opening and that I could meet one-on-one with the volunteer in charge of training to get me started! I had a few training sessions between November and December, and officially began my storytelling times this week. I actually have two groups that I do because another spot has opened up and thought I could handle it. 

Isn't God great to give me something that is right up my alley? He has opened up an opportunity for me to use my talents and be a light in the community. I have an opportunity to teach children through stories once a month. I don't know where this community ministry will lead to, but I'm glad that I'm on this fun and exciting journey.

The name of the program is Lafayette Kids Ready to Read. I received this binder full of tips on storytelling and resources to use. 

After each of my storytelling times, I'd like to share with you the little program I put together for the kids. It may give you ideas to use with your children at home. My two groups of 3 and 4-year-olds are at the local recreation center's day care. I read three books, intermingled with songs, fingerplays and fun stuff from my bag--like puppets!

My opening song is "When ducks get up in the morning." It's part of the A Beka K5 curriculum that I used when I taught. It's a fun song that's easy for the kids to learn and join in.(If you want to know how the song is sung, I can e-mail it or sing it on a video--just let me know!:) I borrowed this glove puppet from the library. They have several boxes full of resources to use for these storytelling times. 

The daycare's theme for the month is outer space, so I chose some things to do to go along with that. The first book I read is called, How Many Stars in the Sky? by Lenny Hort. It's a neat story about a boy and his dad who go around town looking for a good place to see the stars. 

After I read that first story, we sang "Twinkle, Twinkle." I passed out these star finger puppets so that they could twinkle them as they sang. I made them out of yellow and sparkly white felt. I just stitched two pieces together, leaving a small finger opening. Easy as pie!

The second book was Moondance, by Frank Asch. It's a story about a bear who asks different things in nature if they can dance with him. Finally, he finds the moon's reflection in a puddle and dances with the moon.

I used this bear puppet from the library and this felt moon puppet I made to play a game. Every time I pulled the moon from behind my back, the kids were to wiggle around with the bear. (Just to let you know, as a Christian, I don't dance or support it, so that's why I had the kids wiggle. The book was innocent in nature with the dancing; the bear seemed to be just wiggling or jumping up and down.)

The next thing we did was this poem:

Moon Ride

Do you want to go up with me to the moon? (point to kids)

Let's get in our rocket ship, (pretend to climb a ship)

And blast off soon! (swish hands quickly)

Farther and faster we reach to the sky (jump and reach)

Isn't it fun to be able to fly?

We're on the moon,

Now all take a look, (look down)

And gently sit down (sit down quietly)

And I'll show you a book.

The last book I read was Here in Space by David Milgrim. It's a story written in rhyme sharing how we live in space because we live on the earth. The main character shares many wonderful places to explore on our earth.

The last poem I shared is called, "Five Amazing Astronauts" by Geri Ceci Cupery. I used my hand to share the story as I told about each astronaut. At the end, I put my fingers together and zoomed them along like a rocket ship.

"Five Amazing Astronauts"

Five amazing astronauts floating in a line....

The first one said, "This is mighty fine!"

The second one said, "The stars are so bright!"

The third one said, "Is it day or night?"

The fourth one said, "It's a great view."

THe fifth one said, "I think so, too."

Then they all slowly tumbled back into their ship--

And five amazing astronauts continued on their trip.

Besides having the same opening song each time I visit, I have a closing song, too. I found some words on-line to the tune of the Mickey Mouse Good-bye Song, and just changed a few of them to adapt to my time with the kids.

Now it's time to say good-bye,

"good-bye" to all of you,

Have a great day, read some good books,

And I'll see you real soon.

My story time went well with both of my groups. This space program lasted about 25 minutes. There were times that I wish I could have shared the fact that God created the universe and everything in it, but being at this daycare I can't do it. (If it was a Christian daycare, then it would be different.) I know if the children or teachers ask me questions, then it would be appropriate to share my faith. Right now, I can focus on being a testimony with my words and actions, and do the best I can being a good volunteer for the library.

By the way, did I tell you there are benefits for volunteers? One of them is that when you go to the library to prepare for storytime, you can pick up a drink at their coffee shop. They have smoothies and hot chocolate, too! The other one is that after you have acquired a certain amount of hours, you are eligible to receive a punch card for a certain amount that can be used for fines. (This is going to be great, because everyone turns in books late once in a while!)

So, do any of you volunteer somewhere in your community? If so, what do you do? Also, let me know if you need more information on anything I shared in this post. I'd love to help you put on a good story time at home or anywhere else. ;)

Music to encourage your heart this Christmas

Usually at this time of year, Q and I attend quite a few parties and programs put on by both church and school. But now that we are in a smaller church with no Christian school, we have not attended so many this season. I've had memories of last year's Christmas concert with my choirs and have really missed it. Maybe someday the Lord will allow me to have a choir again. I loved my time with the kids, encouraging them with their musical talents.

I am thankful that we had a nice program this past Sunday at church that I could be a part of and enjoy. We had singers, a poetry reader and our staff evangelist bring a short message. We also happened to have a missionary family there, so they presented their work and the father preached the main message.

One of my favorite songs to sing is "Gesu Bambino" which is translated, "Infant Jesus." I sang most of it in English, then sang one of the choruses in Italian. I hope to someday record this song for you, but in the meantime, here are the words to this classic Christmas song. I know they will encourage your heart.

Gesu Bambino

by Frederick H. Martens and Pietro A. Yon

When blossoms flowered 'mid the snows upon a winter night

Was born the Child, the Christmas Rose, the King of Love and Light.

The angels sang, the shepherds sang, the grateful earth rejoiced,

And at His blessed birth the stars their exultation voiced.

O come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him,

O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.

Again the heart with rapture glows to greet the holy night

That gave the world its Christmas Rose, its King of Love and Light,

Let every voice acclaim His name, The grateful chorus swell,

From paradise to earth He came that we with Him might dwell.

Venite adoremus, Venite adoremus, 

Venite adoremus, Dominum.

Ah....O come let us adore Him,

Ah....adore Him Christ the Lord.

O come,  O come, O come let us adore Him,

Let us adore Him...Christ the Lord.

For the past several years, members from our new church have attended a Christmas concert put on by Abbas Ministries, Inc. It's hosted by Columbine Baptist Church in Denver. Most of the program consists of members of the Abbas family. They also invite friends and children from area churches to take a part in it. Since Q had to work last night, Zann (a friend from church) and I drove down together and really had a great time at the concert.

Here are a few of my favorite video clips for you to enjoy. This first one is of the kids playing bells to "Angels we have heard on high." I think this would be fun to do with kids in our church.

This next one is of a young lady named Emily Levin playing "Let it Snow" on her harp. This past October, Emily placed in the top three in Israel's International Harp Competition. She's an amazing harpist!

These last numbers were ones that the audience got to participate in. The brass ensemble played "Jingle Bells" while people rattled their keys. You'll see Zann's keys jingling in the clip.:) The last song for the evening was "Silent Night." We were accompanied by piano and harp. Someone also signed it for the hearing impaired. You'll hear my voice singing in this one, too. I just couldn't sit there while everyone around me sang.

Hope you enjoyed this mini concert! Next year, I'll have to take Q with me, as I know he'll enjoy it, too. 

The long-awaited date, part 2

After our treats at Ziggi's Coffee Shop in Longmont, we decided to walk around a bit more before heading down to Johnstown for the final event of our date. I took this photo of Q at the coffee shop. Isn't he handsome?

A few months ago, I baby sat for a friend in Fort Collins. She gave me a gift certificate to the Candlelight Dinner Playhouse for doing this favor for her. Q and I had never been to this place before, so we were really excited about it. I love musical theater and it had been a long time since I've been to a show. When we first arrived, we were seated at a cozy table. Then, we ordered our meal and ate as we listened to soft classical music in the background. The food was awesome! Q had prime rib and I had chicken cordon bleu. 

After the meal, the show began. We watched Phantom, The Musical Sensation by Maury Yeston (book by Arthur Kopit). It was well-done, but so different than Broadway's version. I saw that one on my senior trip in high school in New York City. Out of all the plays, musicals and operas I have seen, it is still my favorite. We did enjoy this one, too. Between the two acts, dessert was served if you wanted it. We passed up on it and had a cinnamon roll from Johnson's Corner on the way home. 

I was so glad we got to do this! We had a great time together, laughing, talking and enjoying some great music. I've already hinted to Q about possibly taking me to another one, perhaps on our anniversary or my birthday (both in May). They are showing My Fair Lady then, too--should be good! 

Another highlight I will add is that we saw some friends from Fort Collins. It was good to see them and catch up on things in their lives. I've been missing everyone there lately, so I'm glad God allowed me to see some of our dear friends from FRBC.

How have you been enjoying some family and/or "couple" time? It's good to get away (even if not too far), with those you love.