Milestones....

What has felt like a mountain that would never be surmounted finally was today. It has been an ongoing battle of wills, but one will finally surrendered. After much screaming, holding of hands, and a prayer to Jesus for help...

Carson used the potty three times this morning.

The Coughlin's are praising God from a little house on 4th St. this afternoon...and we pray this battle will be fully won.

Tis the Season...

Merry Christmas! We have been busily preparing for Christmas as we will be hosting my family this Christmas. I am a little nervous because of the limited space in our house, but coziness creates lasting memories--right?!

Elliott and Carson had their church Christmas program this past weekend. Elliott was a wiseman (she DID NOT want to be an angel) and Carson was an angel. I was so proud of them for memorizing their parts. Carson literally was eating the microphone when she said her little poem for the program! It was so cute!

We have had fun decorating the tree and the house, baking cookies, shopping, and hastily sending out Christmas cards at the last minute (trying to get to the post office today was VERY interesting with our new foot of snow!)

We are so thankful for this time of the year. We have the Nativity Scene of Lordi's willow figurines in our small bay window to remind us of the centerpiece of the season and everything in life--our dear Jesus. The girls are so intent when we tell the Christmas story and they are internalizing it, which I thank God for.

Thanksgiving in our hearts...

We are incredibly excited about our newest baby coming to join the family in the future! This baby adds a whole other spin on thankfulness for the Coughlin clan. With joy in our hearts we anticipate this little bundle.

The girls and I sat and discussed what we were thankful for during our devotions. It was so wonderful to hear the things Elliott and Carson are thankful for.

I am so thankful for what a wonderful husband Adam is to me. It brings me deep peace to know Adam is led by God and how the Lord has woven us together more and more in His love. What a blessing. What a praise.

I am very thankful that Christ is my joy and strength.

Summer winding down...

We had the fun of experiencing Northern Lights Camp at Lake Metigoshe this past weekend for a bit of a summer reprieve. It had been years since my last visit and this was the rest of the clans first. It was such a joy to see Elliott and Carson have so much fun and make new little friends! Adam and I had our first canoeing experience together. We survived. Also, it was my first attempt at making tofu "egg salad" (and every sandwhich was eaten with many compliments! yay!) We will definitely be going back next year to visit friends and hopefully pursuade more family to come.

God is good.

Knife in the gut made better by Melissa Otto

Currently listening to Melissa Otto Band.

I feel like a knife was ripped through my guts.

Wait. There was a knife ripped through my guts.

Man.

swimming...lap swimming.

I am a rhythmic person. I embrace rhythms. I'm not talking about music necessary, but the beat of the world.

For instance when I lap swim I find it intriguing the pattern of sound that is created. Pull, flutter, pull, flutter, pull, flutter breath. Pull, flutter, pull, flutter, pull flutter, breath, flip. This is a rather lame example of what I am talking about.

I like rhythm and order. It has taken time, but God has gotten me here. The Bible says, God is a God of order. He has a way of doing everything. He even created our bodies to be on a circadian rhythm.

Even though I have always liked pattern and consistancy, I in the past would criticize the rhythmic and orderly person. I do believe I was jealous because I lacked the power to be such a person. At the time I would not have called it criticism and jealousy, but God has opened my eyes.

He has always been calling me to a higher standard in every area of life, so it will be orderly. With Him I have true rhythm, true purpose. At the center of my life, Almighty God is the heart beat pulsating through me with might, power, and deep rhythm.

It's the best.

LONG three days.

Oh what a long three days. The girls have had the stomach flu. It's so disgusting. They are very appreciative of any help and love I can give them, which really hampers down the disgusting part. Adam and I are praying the bug skips us. So far so good.

Fourth of July weekend.

Generally around the Fourth of July we celebrate at Seth's home. His birthday is the 3rd and they open their home to all who want to come for a HUGE fireworks display and festivity. The Fourth is Adam's favorite holiday, but this year we all decided it just wouldn't be the same with out Tom, so other plans were made.

In lou of the above, it was a festive Fourth of July weekend. We went to Tioga to spend time with my mom's family. There is always much drama and fun at the Johnson residence. I enjoy seeing my grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. What a gift to have them.

We also stopped into my 10 year class reunion. It was a bit awkward for me since I rarely speak to any of my high school mates, but I enjoyed myself. It was truly nice to get to see Gracia. I haven't seen much of her since high school, but we had a few good laughs and it was great to hear her laught...it hasn't changed! Also it was so nice to see Kya. I know we both live in ND, but it is to far and in between that we actually get to see each other. Adam is convinced that both Gracia's husband, Aaron and Kya's husband Craig would enjoy a sports outing with him. Oh Adam, you just may think too highly of yourself! Any excuse for you to go to a sporting event!

We spent the 4th at the farm and at the lake. I love being at the farm with my Dad, Mom, sisters and their families. We have so much fun together. Truly they are all my best friends! From the youngest, Tucker to the oldest, Dad we just enjoy each others presence immensely. The boys shot guns, the girls chatted, and the kids went wild outside! Lord, thank you for my childhood home where my kids can go and have freedom to truly enjoy themselves.

The Brevik's lake house was amazingly beautiful with such a marvelous view. Dave shout out to you!! You built an awesome house for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. Thanks for the invite and the amazing food!! The girls enjoyed the jumping castle and hot tub. I thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful grand piano and Adam the boat!

We got home and shot off a hokey display of fireworks for the girls and they loved it! They thanked Daddy over and over for the lights show. What joy it gave Adam and I to see the sparkle and excitement in Elliott and Carson's eyes.

Father God, you are to good to Adam and I. We do not deserve Elliott and Carson. I am overwhelmed by you. Oh how you have blessed us with precious friends and wonderful families. I praise your name for your goodness. I praise your name for your grace and your mercy. Your loving kindness toward my family is undeserved in light of who you are. How can I ever speak enough praises? How can I ever give you enough glory for the wonderful gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour?

Lord I thank you for the freedom we still have in America to worship you openly, as others do not have that same freedom. Thank you for the independence you have given your children from the great deceiver and enemy. Thank you for the cross. Thank you for your death, Jesus Christ, and your resurrection.

To your name, Jesus, be all honor and glory forever and ever.

june-campmeeting

Oh month of June, where have you gone!?

The second week of June Elliott, Carson, and I went to DAA for campmeeting. The children's cradle roll and kindergarden department was fantastic. The girls adored going to "school" all week. They made some pretty amazing crafts. I was proud of them. Most importantly they spent the week talking about God and the gift of Jesus. It warms my heart that they already love Jesus.

I had a wonderful time in the Word at campmeeting. My favorite session for the adults each day was by Dr. Jon Dybdahl. The topic which he discussed was "Spiritual Renewal". I was so captivated by his scriptural references on the spiritual life that I bought his book, "Hunger" from the ABC. It has been a really good in helping me seek out God.

There was so much to feed on at campmeeting that I cannot even write about it. It was a steller, two thumbs-up experience with the girls and our friend Shelly. We were so gladd Daddy got to come Friday and Sabbath! Very excited for next year!

Great Afternoon.

What an outstanding afternoon! The weather was absolutely gorgeous. The girls and I loaded up the van with Auntie Shelly and headed out to Fairview for a delightful meal at the Powder Keg. Then we meandered over to the the intriguing Cartwright Bridge. We had the fun of getting to cross the bridge and walk to the Cartwright Tunnel. The girls and I were a bit unsteady crossing the bridge by foot. I have always had a slight fear of bridges, so my blood pressure definately went up a bit as we made our way to the other side. The scenery of the Yellow Stone River was stunning and the sunshine soothing for the soul.

We also stopped and visited the Confluence Interpretive Center. It was neat to see. The girls enjoyed the museum aspect also.

Track Meet

Elliott and Carson participated in a Williston Track meet yesterday for kids between the ages of 2 to 12. There were many friends and family members who brought their children. It was fabulous to see all the kiddos running their guts out. Many toddlers, which included Carson, had no clue why they were even running! Elliott had been ampted for a few weeks knowing the track meet was coming. She definitely mentally trained because I had never seen her "fly" so fast! She was very concerned beforehand that she did not have "name brand" shoes (it makes me so sad that she has caught on to the whole name brand thing). She had some good ole' Walmart sneakers and I had to explain to her that it wasn't her shoes that made her fast, but her legs. Elliott was thrilled with a first place ribbon that she tied for. Carson was so cute and did happen to come in second in the 100 meter dash. Out of all the children I knew there, Aubers, my niece, was the most fascinatig to watch. She was SO FAST! She is such a ballerinia princess, who would have known!? We thank God for memory making opportunities that we get to make as a family. The memories will bring many smiles to our family for future days.

"Pillars of Our Faith"

Wow! What a great last three plus days! On top of it being our six year anniversary on the 28th, we have been participating via satellite in the "Pillars of Our Faith" campmeeting in Thompsonville, Illinois at 3 Angels Broadcasting Network.
There has been a plethora of food to feed upon to revitalize our weary souls and to cause us to be awed by our gracious God! Thank you Lord for giving us 3ABN!
You can watch 3ABN online at:
http://www.3abn.org/

Tom's B'day

Today is Tom's birthday. Needless to say this is a hard day for Adam, his mom and Seth. Adam is having a difficult time with his dad's death. Any good son would have a hard time. The gift of time is easing my pain. He wasn't my dad. Time hasn't yet eased Adam's. I know it is a struggle for Adam because he misses his dad so much.

My prayer is that God will lead him through this dark valley. Adam says that he knows this can only make him a better person. I believe he is right. God's grace does that. It takes the yuck of this world and makes it beautiful. Only Creator God can do that.

Thank you Lord for your grace. Thank you Jesus that you love us and not only that, but you like us and we are your friends.

Excitement!

I received a phone call yesterday from Brett as she was driving back from Bismarck. It went something like this.

Brett: Hey Bre, I bought you a present.
Me: What!? A present for me!?
Brett: Yep. And I know you will like it.
Me: Tell me. Tell me now. What is it? I want to know.
Brett: No, you can wait.
Me: Brett, no I can't wait. Tell me. Please, tell me. I want to know. Tell me. PLEASE.
Brett: It will ruin it. No you can wait.
Me: Breeeeettt. Please.
Brett: Oh, okay. You wanted one.
Me: It's an apron isn't it!? You remembered!
Brett: Yep and you're gonna really like it.
Me: Thanks so much. I'm so excited to see it!

Flowers

Today we tackled the job of planting our flowers. Gail helped me in exchange for Adam mowing her lawn. It was a good trade.

Each year I always end up buying way to much, so of course we had to make another trip back to the shop and return flowers and plants.

I have neglected the girls nap though, and now they are terribly crabby and tired, but I guess they will go to bed early!

Reflecting.

I just read something that made me cry.

If I think about Reese to much it makes me so sad and I want to cry, and sometimes I do and sometimes I don't. I wanted her to be perfect and to get to hold her alive. Her due date has come and has gone and nobody new the wiser, but Adam and I did. We talked about it. It all seems still so unreal.

Tuesday is her memorial service. I wonder if I will cry. I know it is okay to cry, but we've cried a bit much lately about Adam's dad. I am tired of crying.

I want Jesus to come.

Five minutes...

I have five minutes before my subbing starts for the day! I had an encouter this morning with the secretary here at Trinity that was such a blessing. Her son has been through many, many trials and tribulations that no one should have to go through, but we live in a world full of the results of sin. She was telling me that Tom is a beautiful example of what God can do through His grace in spite of sin.

Oh that I would be a beautiful example of what God's grace can do.

And he talked with God.

It amazes me how the Lord came to Abraham and they would just talk. They would talk about Abraham's future and the future of his children and his descendents.

God has given me a future. He has given me children. I will have descendents.

I found these texts to be encouraging.

"And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I AM the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect (sincere)." Genesis 17:1

"For I (God) know him (Abraham) that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgement; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he has spoken of him." Genesis 18:19

God gave Abraham the covenant promise. He has given me a covenant promise. He has an expectation of me though; to walk with perfect sincerity before Him and to keep the way of the Lord. These expectations do not save me. No, no it is only by faith that I am saved through grace. Although these expectations will be fulfilled because of my love for my Maker. The beauty of it is, I cannot even fulfill these expectations, it is only God who fills me who can.

Good good day.

What a great day! It is a great day to praise the Lord! We are so excited for the sunshine today. Adam didn't know when he was going to get a chance to fertilize our grass because of all the rain. Well his chance came today!

This morning I spent time with the girls singing and doing our verse memorization. They blow me away each time they learn more scripture. We spend time discussing what we are memorizing and Elliott has so many outstanding questions to challenge my mind. We are also currently reviewing the life of the prophet Elisha and wow, has that been a faith challenger and booster!

Spring is here!!!

We are so excited that Spring has finally arrived to us in Williston! We give thanks for our vacation at the end of February, but are so glad to have nice weather at home. The snow is slowly melting and we are saying, "So long and farewell!"

Elliott and Carson cannot get enough of being outside right now. We have gone on many walks thus far and the outdoor activity will only increase.

This week the girls have had lots of cousin activity. They have played full-heartedly with Reagan and Lucy. Branssen and Tucker joined us today. Tucker had a bad start, but "all's well-that ends well."

I have been preparing and preparing for the week of prayer at Dakota Adventist Academy. The time is has finally arrived and there are only a few more days till Elliott and I venture to the school for a week. We are excited to see what the Lord has in store for us and the students! I have no doubt it will be a Spirit filled week.

Signing off for now!
Bre for the Coughlins