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.