One Thousand Gifts (Continued)

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" 

(Romans 12:2)

Sometimes it is fairly easy to have a physical transformation, such as a new hairstyle, new physique, or a new bedroom.  However, it's an ongoing process to experience spiritual transformation.  I need to keep asking the LORD for His help to be "transformed by the renewing of my mind".

Giving thanks for transformation!!
Continuing to give thanks...

#3799-#3820
-transformation
-God's continual work on my heart

-the transformation of our garage to Nicole's bedroom

-the completion of her new room

-her excitement to move into her new room (sleeping on the floor the first night)

-putting in a whole day's worth of putting together Nicole's furniture

-having fun at VBS

-his creativity and eagerness to create a helmet

-learning about putting on the armour of God
-a great week at VBS
-working together with my close friend
-Nicole and Jesse's help with the preschool children
-the dedication and hard work of the VBS coordinators
-the many volunteers
-the precious children who attended VBS and had the opportunity to learn more about God's love and putting on the armour of God

-the perfect summer afternoon!!!

-hanging out in the backyard, eating popsicles

-hanging out in the backyard, eating popsicles
-his excitement of solving his new 4x4 Rubik cube
-how she has almost raised $200 for Compassion Canada 
-enjoying a beautiful day with cousins
-celebrating my aunt and uncle's birthdays

One Thousand Gifts (continued)

"In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind" 

(Job 12:10).

There are some things that I do not get too stressed about (such as my upcoming ultrasound and test and our next adoption) because they are completely out of my control.  Other things, however do cause a bit of stress in my life because they seem to be "in my control'.  However, I need to remind myself that God holds ALL things in His sovereign hands and everything is in His control.  I need to commit EVERY area of life to prayer and give it ALL to Him who has in His hand "the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind".

Giving thanks that He holds ALL things in His sovereign hands!!
Continuing to give thanks...

#3783-#3798
-that all things are in His control
-that He does what is best for us
-a successful first day of Vacation Bible School
-for all the hours and hard work of the co-coordinators and the many volunteers
-Jesse and Nicole and their help with the three year olds
-the exuberant energy of the three year olds
-Curtis' excitement about his morning, particularly the crafts he made
-being all together in the living room, reading, playing games, etc.

-fun photo editing

-keeping busy

-his hours of dedication to complete his new creation

-enjoying the progress of the renovations and for this opportunity

-the happy couple

-a sister so willing to lend me her jewellery and accessories
-enjoying a beautiful wedding with friends

-the lovely parents of the bride who are such a godly example to their children

-the love between a father and a daughter- something beautiful!

One Thousand Gifts (continued)

"Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms"  

(1Peter 4:10).

She came home from camp, excited about a wonderful week of worship, Bible study, crafts, and many other fun, exciting things.  One thing that she was particularly excited about was one of the crafts that they did.  They made wallets from duct tape.  She came home and wanted to make more wallets, but she wanted to do it for a greater cause.  She has a heart for Compassion Canada, so it wasn't surprising when she suggested to sell the wallets for $5 and give the money to Compassion Canada.  She hopes to choose something from the Compassion Gift catalogue for individuals in Africa (such as mosquito nets, chickens, etc.)  

Since she has been home Friday night, she has earned $60 for Compassion.  Way to go, Nicki!

Continuing to give thanks...

#3759-#3782

-craft supplies

-her inspiration from Camp Shalom

-those who have already purchased a wallet or two, to support Compassion (and Nicole's new hobby/business)

-the extra money that she makes for Compassion from those who give an extra donation

-her determination to make lots of wallets and earn lots of money for Compassion Canada

-her hard work

-our birthday boy!  

-greenhouse parties/celebrations

-gifts chosen JUST for him

-his unique interests and talents

 -a love for animals and the latest greenhouse pet

 -a bit of work for the summer

 -our budding artist (Deborah-age 3)!

 -spending the holiday doing fun, leisurely things such as golfing (and swimming at Oma and Opa's)

-big brother's awesome babysitting skills
-how Nicole reads so dramatically to her little sister when tucking her in bed
-how his 9 year old mind works and how he comes up with great solutions to problems
-boys' sleepover in the TV room
-scrap booking with my sister in law
-biking, playing mini golf and making lots of great summer memories
-Nicole's great week at Camp Shalom and her great Christian counsellors
-laughing ourselves silly while watching Tim Hawkins
-having our pastor back from his sabbatical
-being reminded to boast in the cross and in Christ alone