Having Faith... Jeremiah 29:11

Show Us Your Life... Desserts!

2011-05-27T14:03:00.001-04:00

Coconut Poke Cake

1 (18.25 ounce) package white cake mix
1 (14 ounce) can cream of coconut
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (16 ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed

Prepare and bake white cake mix according to package directions. Remove cake from oven. While still hot, using a utility fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake.
Mix cream of coconut and sweetened condensed milk together. Pour over the top of the still hot cake. Let cake cool completely then frost with the whipped topping. Keep cake refrigerated.

You can also top with flake coconut!

Things Are Looking Up!!

2010-09-30T11:25:00.006-04:00

Well... the past few months have been interesting to say the least! Im pretty much writing this past summer off! We had a busy summer even with everything that was going on with me. I will say being able to spend time with Cale this summer was awesome. We went to Arkansas, Mississppi and Tybee Island. We were so excited that we had family in town to celebrate Cale's 4th birthday. We had to cancel his party due to my health issues, but it ended up being a great party! I cant believe Cale is 4!!!

Here are a few pictures from our Summer!!

I LOVE this picture!

This was about all the water he wanted to play in... he did not like the ocean!

He sure loves his Mawmaw and Pawpaw in Mississippi!

I love this saying... its so true!

The Birthday boy!!

having fun at Grandma and Grandpas house in Arkansas!

We sure miss them! :(

Cale started Pre-K this year. We had a really hard time putting him in public school this year. We LOVED the school he attended the past 2 years, but we knew with the upcoming adoption cost we just couldnt afford it. He has done great adjusting. I will say I miss him coming home with Jesus on his mind... one of the major downfalls of public schools! But we talk to him about Jesus at home and he has great teachers at church! Cale is also riding the bus! I didnt cry the first day of school like I thought I would... but the first morning he rode the bus... I bawled!!! Seeing that bus drive away with my baby in it was hard! I was able to go eat lunch with him last week, I was amazed at how big he was. I love being able to pick him up from school 2 days a week.
First Day of Pre-K

On the Big Yellow Bus... he was so excited! :)

We were able to finish up our adoption meetings this week!! What a relief that was! We should have our book out to be seen in 3-4 weeks... then all we can do is wait and pray!! We are looking forward to welcoming a new baby into our family. :)

Spring... at last!!

2010-04-05T12:50:00.009-04:00

Well it feels more like summer, but it sure beats the cold!! There is just something about beautiful weather that makes you happy!Cale had his first t-ball game this past weekend! We had the best time watching them play! It's going to be fun watching them get better and better! But at 3 years old... just holding their attention is a challenge!! Here are a couple of pictures from his first game.
We went to church Easter morning then went to Clint's parents for lunch and egg hunt! I really miss the days when I got to hunt eggs. I tried to talk mama into doing one for me with money in the eggs, she didnt go for it! :( Maybe next year! Here are a couple of pictures from Easter Sunday.
love,
Kimberly

Cale's First T-ball Practice

2010-03-24T08:44:00.003-04:00

Well Cale's first practice was interesting to say the least! He did pretty good... hopefully next week the coaches will be a little more helpful! Here is a couple of pictures of Cale!

Who's the king of the jungle? WHO WHO WHO!

2010-03-17T08:20:00.005-04:00

What is the one thing that can make me smile no matter how bad of a mood I might be in??? Hearing Cale singing the songs he has learned at school. Anyone who is around Cale knows he LOVES to sing. It doesn't matter if hes in his bed going to sleep, taking a bath, playing or sitting in his classroom (when he should be listening to his teacher!), he is singing! It blesses my heart to hear him talk and sing about Jesus. I love to listen to him say (sing) his blessing and his prayers. Yesterday he started singing this one...

Who's the king of the jungle? WHO WHO WHO!
Who's the king of the sea? BUBBA BUBBA BUBBA!
Who's the king of the universe?
JESUS!!!!!!!
And He's the king of me!

We had our first home study meeting on March 3. It went great. This adoption is already proving to be much different then Cale's adoption. Its hard to believe it has been almost 5 years since we did our home study for Cale! Where has the time gone?! Things have changed alot since then, new laws, new paperwork and of course more money! This past week got the best of me. Trying to figure out how to get fingerprints done, FBI and GBI checks done and physicals! Who knew the wait for a physical would be over a month! I keep trying to remind myself that we aren't doing this on our own, the Lord has it all under control. But it is hard not to try to make things happen over night yourself! We have our next home study meeting on April 13 and then another seminar on April 23. Lots of trips to Macon... I look forward to the last trip we will make to Macon, the one where we get to bring home our precious daughter/son!

In the midst of all that we are planning a trip to Mississippi the middle of April to see our family! I cant wait to see them, it has been way too long! I think Cale is just as excited as I am! Speaking of Mr. Cale, this Tuesday he has his first t-ball practice! I am really looking forward to him playing t-ball! We all are!

Well I need to start dinner... I will end with, you guessed it... Cale singing! :)

Love,

Kimberly

A New Journey...

2010-02-15T12:55:00.005-05:00

Well... We have officially begun the adoption process! We had our first seminar with our new agency last week. There were about 15 other families there. Out of the 15 families, there was only one other family besides us that had adopted before. Some families had biological children and felt lead to adopt, some were in the midst of fertility treatments and pursuing adoption at the same time not knowing how their baby would enter their lives. It was interesting to see how each of us had our own unique story that lead us to the same place, praying for the same outcome, a child to love.

The seminar was very informative. We left with excitement in our hearts and some of our fears eased. We have talked about requesting a girl, and since this could be our last adoption, (sigh), we decided that's what we would do. Although, we aren't completely against having another boy if that is Gods plan for us!

The paper work is a little overwhelming! Im sure we had just as much when we started the adoption process with Cale, but that has been almost 5 years ago. Wow... where has the time gone? We have our first home study visit at the agency on March 3. If all goes according to the schedule we are on, our profile book will start being shown to birthmothers in May! We have alot to before baby Callee or baby Cash get here!! Please be praying for us as we start our new journey.

What a comfort it is knowing it's all in God's hands.

Love,
Kimberly

Here are a couple of pictures from Christmas and the snow we got this past weekend!!

All the kids at Christmas!

Cale had a blast sliding down our front yard!

Buddies!

I’ve come to realize...

2010-01-06T14:18:00.000-05:00

*I’ve come to realize that my job. . . will have its ups and downs, but I have been here for 10 years! I am thankful to have a job!

*I’ve come to realize that when I’m driving. . . I need to avoid hitting EVERY pothole! They are like a magnet!

*I’ve come to realize that I need. . .to have a pajama day every now and then!

*I’ve come to realize that I have lost. . .weight in the past and it comes back on a lot faster then it comes off!!

*I’ve come to realize that I hate it when. . . money it tight, but the Lord always provides!

*I’ve come to realize that if I’m drunk. . .something went terribly wrong, I don’t drink!

*I’ve come to realize that money… is more important than I would like it to be.

*I’ve come to realize that certain people. . .will never be nice no matter what.

*I’ve come to realize that I’ll always. . .be thankful for Cale’s birth parents.

*I’ve come to realize that my siblings. . . are too far away and need to move home.

*I’ve come to realize that my mom…is the best. I love you mama.

*I’ve come to realize that my cell phone. . .is pretty awesome.

*I’ve come to realize that when I woke up this morning. . .that I would rather stay in my warm bed and snuggle with Cale instead of getting out in the freezing weather!

*I’ve come to realize that last night before I went to sleep. . .that I totally forgot I had a doctors appt yesterday… oops!

*I’ve come to realize that right now I am thinking. . .it shouldn’t be so hard and expensive for us to have another baby!!!

*I’ve come to realize that my dad. . . SKIP!

*I’ve come to realize that when I get on Facebook. ..I realize how thankful I am for so many wonderful friends who keep me laughing!

*I’ve come to realize that today. . . that I take a lot of things for granted!

*I’ve come to realize that tonight. . . . I have nursery, ugh.

*I’ve come to realize that tomorrow. . . Its supposed to SNOW!

*I’ve come to realize that I really want to. . . ..be closer to the Lord then ever before.

*I’ve come to realize that the person mostly likely to re-post this is. . . hmmmm.

*I’ve come to realize that life. . . is all in God's hands. His timing is perfect and His way is perfect.

*I’ve come to realize that this weekend. . . I am staying inside as much as I can!

*I’ve come to realize that my friends. . .encourage me everyday!

*I’ve come to realize that this year. . .holds great things for us!

*I’ve come to realize that my husband. . . is a hardworker and wants the best for us. I am also thankful for the heart he has. Cale and I are so lucky!

*I’ve come to realize that maybe I should. . . stop worrying so much! hahaha.

*I’ve come to realize that I love. . . my life. Its not always sunny, but the sun will come out tomorrow!

*I’ve come to realize that I don’t understand. . . that I will not always understand Gods plan.

*I’ve come to realize my past. . . is what made me who I am today.

*I’ve come to realize that parties. . .can get expensive quick!.

*I’ve come to realize that I’m totally terrified. . .of our President!

*I’ve come to realize that my life. . .is mine and that I don’t need to worry about what everybody else has. I need to be content with what I have!

Heartache and Joy

2009-12-07T08:45:00.004-05:00

The past few weeks have been a little rough. I can honestly say that I have struggled more lately with the fact I will never be able to carry a baby than ever before. In my heart I know that the Lord knows why and that it is His will, but the flesh of me still questions WHY? Why can people who have abortions get pregnant, and what about the people who leave their babies in dumpsters? Why?!

Last Monday we had our ladies bible study at Church. The subject was Joy. Mrs. Michelle did a great job. She asked if we knew the difference between Joy and Happiness. Happiness is a emotion, but Joy is attitude of the heart. Joy is something that lasts; happiness is something that is temporary. When happiness fades away, joy remains. Joy brings us peace in the middle of a storm. I remember her asking if we could think of a time that we asked the Lord for something and He gave it to us? Do you remember the Joy that you felt? I immediately went back to the moment I saw Cale for the first time. The thoughts of all we had been through, the good times and the bad, and where it had brought us that day. That was Joy!! A Joy like I had never felt before. Knowing in my heart that this was God's will for us.

She went on to talk about how during tough times you draw closer to the Lord. I remember that as well. I remember praying all the time for Cale. I remember being on the phone with my prayer partner and both of us pouring our heart out to the Lord for this Child. I don't remember a time in my life that I was walking closer with Him. Our God is an Amazing God!

I often think back on the road that lead us to adoption. I remember month after month being disappointed. Then to doctor visit after doctor visit. It often seemed like one discouraging event lead to another and then to another. I remember the feeling of being told I would never get pregnant on my own, and then the feeling I felt when I knew I would never carry a child at all. Those were some of the darkest times in my life. Something noone could make better.

But then I remembered the day at Victory when we were teaching Children's church. We had Josh Bush in our class. That was the day the Lord began working in my heart about adoption. I remember telling mama that I felt like God was leading us to adopt. At that time we didn't know I wouldn't be able to carry a child. I remember her telling me that I didnt need to give up yet. That the Lord had a plan for us. But the feeling I got that day was always on my mind.

We had gotten to the point where we had so much weight on our shoulders with fertility treatments that we couldn't move. It was so stressful on us. Then the day we decided adoption was the path God had for us... the weight was lifted. We had new hope! We had heard how hard adoption was and how it would take years. And how it was an emotional roller coaster. Well let me tell you... with my God, nothing is impossible!! I will not say we didn't shed tears during the process and that there weren't some dark days. But we knew in our hearts that this is where God wanted us. Looking back I see the stepping stones God put in place to get us where we are today. Sometimes in my mind when something happens, I think to myself.... Is this a stepping stone to get us closer to our next child? I am so thankful that even though we cant see things right away... that the Lord sees it for us! He sees our future and He holds it in the palm of His hand! What a JOYFUL feeling that is!!

Adopting Cale is the most rewarding thing we have ever experienced. The fact that God chose him for us! I am not sure why God put it on my heart for me to write this. It could just be the fact that I needed to get it out. I cant talk about it without crying, actually I cant even type it without crying! :) But if you or someone you know is struggling with infertility, encourage them to look into adoption. You never know what you can give a child just by loving them. You never know what you may be saving that child from. You may be the only way that child will learn about our Saviour and what He did for us!!

I am so thankful for my Husband, family, and friends who have loved and accepted Cale. He is truly a blessing and an answered prayer. The Lord showed me true Joy through this experience.

The Joy of the Lord is my Strength!

Love, Kimberly

Halloween 2009

2009-10-30T08:23:00.005-04:00

Well this year Cale is gonna be Glenn Beck!! A while back we noticed they favored! I think he makes an awesome Glenn Beck... don't you?!

My Little Glenn Beck!

Check out the shoes lol!

I sure love him!

Happy Fall!!

2009-10-15T11:30:00.004-04:00

I love this time of year!! The cooler weather, the pretty leaves, thoughts of the holidays coming up and festival foods!!!

It seems like the summer came and went in the blink of an eye! What a summer it was! Cale turned 3 and we celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary! It truly amazes me how fast the time is passing.

Cale started preschool in August. He is going 4 days a week now! That is a challenge for me! I got spoiled this summer being able to take him to mamas in his pj's! Now I have to get up earlier to get myself going before I get him up! I do have to say that Cale is a morning boy!! I love the mornings with him. He is going thru this "I can do it by myself" stage. While it is really nice that he dresses himself, its really sad that this is just the first part of him not needing me as much anymore. That is hard for me to take! :) I tell him he is my baby and he replies "I'm not a baby, I am a giant boy!" LOL Well you know as well as I do he will always be my baby!!

He is learning so much in school. We love to hear him sing all the songs he is learning, and its a good thing because he sings ALL THE TIME! :) His newest song we love to hear is the weather song.

Cale is now a Cubbie in Awanas at church! He has to learn a new verse every week. He is also learning verses in Sunday School and at school. He doesn't forget ANYTHING! Sometimes that is good, other times not so good! :) For example him telling people at church last week that he has his spanking belt on today! LOL!!!

He truly is the light of our lives! I still amazes me just how many people he has in his life that love him!

We are hoping to start the adoption process soon. We found an agency out of Athens that we are looking into. We are just praying for guidance still. Its such a huge step to take, but we know Who will be holding our hands when we do take that first step. I cant help but imagine what Cale will be like with a little sister or brother! He LOVES babies!! I cant imagine loving another child like I love Cale, but I know I will. I cant wait to experience becoming a new mommy again!! As fir the sleepless nights.... not so sure!!! Would you please help us pray that the Lord will guide us in the way He wants us to go. Also if you hear of anyone looking to give their baby up for adoption, please keep us in mind!

I really cant wait to blog about our next adoption. I really wish I would have done it with Cale. Plus it will be a good way to keep everyone in the loop! :)

Well that's all for now!!!

Hopefully I will get better at blogging more than once in a blue moon!!

Kimberly

Wow... It's Been a While!

2009-07-20T09:28:00.014-04:00

Mama has been on me to update my blog... I didnt realize it has been 2 months since my last post. Not that they are that interesting anyways! :)

The last 2 months have been jammed packed!! Here are a few new pictures!

We went to Arkansas the week before Memorial Day to visit Clints grandparents! This was the first time we have been out there in 9 years and the first time they have seen Cale!! We had such a great time!! The weather was so nice. Cale enjoyed playing outside most of the day. It was a special time for all of us! We are looking forward to going back next summer!!

We celebrated our 10th Wedding Anniversary on June 19! I cant believe it has been 10 years already. I am so thankful that the Lord sent Clint into my life. I am so blessed to say the least. We left for the beach on the 18th, without Cale, just us! This was the first time I have been away for Cale for any length of time. He was with his mawmaw... so I knew he was happy! We had such a great trip! On our anniversary we went to our favorite place to eat on Tybee Island, the Crab Shack! It was so good!! It was funny because every little boy we seen reminded us of our little man! We talked alot about the things that have happened since we got married. We both agreed that we would go through it all again to have Cale. I am not sure how many men would have been so supportive during the tough times. The Lord knew just who I needed. I look forward to many more years with Clint.

Well, when we got back from the beach we went from relaxation mode to Pirate Birthday Planning mode!! I really do not know where the last 3 years have gone!! I always find myself reminiscing around Cale's birthday. Our time in Oklahoma is by far the most special experience I think we will ever have. I love to think back and see how the Lord was working long before we knew His plan for us. We serve an awesome God!!

Cale was so excited about his Pirate birthday. I am so glad I started preparing a few months before the actual party! He had asked for a Pirate Ship Cake, so of course a Pirate Ship Cake he will have! haha He walked in and seen the cake and said, "Mommy, you bought it for me??" with the sweetest look on his face. I didnt care what happened from that point... my baby loved his cake!! He had all his little friends at his party and had a ball!!! It amazes me how different he is since turning 3!!

Cale on his new tri-cycle we got him for his b-day!

While we were at the beach mama started trying to potty train Cale... well guess what?! It worked!!! I am so proud how good he is doing!! Once again, he never fails to amaze me!! My baby is now a big boy!

This is Cale's face when he misses "His Lana". Barry and his family have moved back to Mississippi. As hard as it is to see them go, we feel it is the Lords will for them to be there. Cale will miss them so much too! We are excited to see what God has planned for them!!

We have started getting the word out that we would like to adopt again. There are so many things that need to work out, but we have faith that God has a way for us again! We are asking if you would just remember us if you hear of someone looking to place their baby up for adoption. Our specific prayer would be a situation thru a friend of a friend with no agency fees. We are looking forward to see what the future holds for us... whether it will be a Callee or a Cash!! I think Cale would like either!! :)

Hope you have a wonderful week!

Friday Fill In...

2009-05-15T08:27:00.002-04:00

1. On my laziest day I like to stay in my pj's all day!

2. A clean house makes me feel like I'm being productive.

3. I love little kisses and big hugs!

4. This summer I want to take Cale back to the beach!

5. Wanting to share stories of Cale is what made me start my blog.

6. Red toenails and orange flipflops.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to grilling out with family, tomorrow my plans include shopping for new clothes before we leave for Arkansas and Sunday, I want to go to church and spend the day with my boys!

Friday Fill In...

2009-05-01T08:46:00.002-04:00

And...here we go!

1. The first rule of working in an office and getting along is TEAMWORK.

2. Why would someone eat clams.

3. When I think of carnivals I think of COTTON CANDY!

4. TUPLIP is my favorite spring flower.

5. Things on my desk include lots and lots of pictures of Cale.

6. Obama makes me wanna puke.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to speniding time with Cale and Mama, tomorrow my plans include Spring Cleaning, Shopping, Eating out and getting my trailer hitch installed and Sunday, I want to Lay on my float in our new pool and get some sun baby!

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-04-29T12:42:00.002-04:00

I have days where I could do this at work!

Friday Fill In...

2009-04-24T13:51:00.001-04:00

1. Apparently there's some sort of payment on a new car??? NO ONE TOLD ME THAT! :)

2. I am LOVIN this sunny day.

3. 2009 has been great so far.

4. HONEST MISTAKE, that was it.

5. For too long I've been too trusting.

6. I am not obsessed with my son; I am not!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to pricing stuff for the yard sale, tomorrow my plans include GARAGE SALE and hopefully making $ and Sunday, I want to rest and enjoy my family!

A Good Friday... after a not so good week!

2009-04-10T13:37:00.003-04:00

This has been a trying week to say the least. Monday I started not to feel good and by Tuesday I was at the doctor with Strep and an ear infection! That followed by finding out my best friends sister in law lost her baby at 19 weeks and another friends dad was in the hospital not doing good. Sometimes you wonder how much more bad news you can hear in one day. Please pray for my friends family as they deal with the loss of their sweet baby and that they will not lose the desire they have for a child. I cannot begin to imagine the hurt they must be feeling. But I know the Lord has plans for them, and though we may not understand it, but this was part of that plan.

Also pray for my friend, Brittany's, dad that he will turn around. Pray that Brittany will stay strong thru this and not lose faith. He amazed the doctors a few years back with a liver transplant and I pray today he will amaze them once again. I know my God can work miracles, we have seen that.

Today is Good Friday. I think of the sacrifice Christ made for us and all that I have because of him. I am thankful that after a week like this that I can look to the Lord for encouragement. I hate to see my friends hurt like they are, but know that He can to encourage them as well.

I am looking forward to being with family this weekend as we celebrate the true meaning of Easter. Its not the Easter Bunny, the egg hunts or the new clothes. (don't get me wrong, I enjoy all these things!!!) But that our Savior rose again!! I cant help but cry as I wrote that. I have SO MUCH to thank him for. And what a great feeling to know that even when my life here is over, my time with Him is just beginning. I pray that you have the same confirmation in your heart this Easter.

Happy Easter!

Thursday Thirteen...

2009-03-26T13:24:00.002-04:00

13 things I look forward to this summer...

1. Warm weather!!!
2. Pool time!
3. Going to Arkansas to see Clints family
4. Our 10th Wedding Anniversary
5. Our Anniversary weekend away!
6. Cale will be 3!
7. Laying out!
8. Homemade Icecream
9. Kait and Jamii are both due!!
10. Our new church might be ready!
11. Vacation
12. Hopefully a beach trip at some point
13.Taking Cale to another Braves game!!!

I finally got it...

2009-03-20T08:14:00.003-04:00

We went and picked up my new car last night!! I forgot just how nice it is to have something new!!

Friday Fill In...

2009-03-13T09:02:00.001-04:00

1. Thinking of my new car is so exciting!
2. Strawberry fields make me itch.
3. Anything at this point sounds like it would taste delicious!
4. Why does sunny warm days make me feel so good?!
5. The babies we are praying for and have prayed for is something I've always wanted to see.
6. It's sad when my baby is sick.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to the GMC dealership and then to eat at Ted's Montana Grill, tomorrow my plans include enjoying the rain with nothing to do and Sunday, I want to nap after church!

Friday Fill In...

2009-03-06T08:12:00.002-05:00

1. Ahhhh, it's so nice to have nothing I have to do this weekend.
2. One of my favorite things on my desk is the picture of me and Cale we had made for Clint for Fathers day last year.
3. Japanese Cherry Blossom is my favorite body spray.
4. The bathroom is my favorite place to sit and read.
5. Olive Garden salad and breadsticks is delicious!
6. I love to watch Reese Witherspoon in movies.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to enjoying the weather, tomorrow my plans include raising my windows and Sunday, I want to relax with my boys and maybe a picnic lunch!

Thursday Thirteen...

2009-03-05T09:17:00.005-05:00

My Great Aunt Louise passed away this past Saturday. I consider myself blessed to have not only known her, but to have loved her. The best part is, she loved me too. I have found myself thinking of her alot since she passed away. We went to Alabama for the funeral and when I saw her, she looked so pretty. She was not only pretty on the outside, but on the inside as well. Hearing what the preachers had to say about her only confirmed that. I have one regret, that is not taking Cale to see her before she got sick. I wish Cale had the opportunity to know her. She was such a special person to me and today I want to share 13 memories of my sweet Aunt Louise. I will miss her so much.

1. Her cooking... every time we visited I could always count on biscuits and salmon and eggs!!
2. Her quilts... I remember her beautiful quilts she made and her quilt holder on the ceiling.
3. I still remember one visit and she had this beautiful tree on her back patio. We asked her what it was and it was an orange tree! She said she was sitting out on the swing eating an orange and stuck a seed in the dirt and it grew!! She could grow anything!!
4. Speaking of plants, she had the prettiest yard! She worked in her yard all the time. I wish I could keep a yard as pretty as she did!
5. Her baby calf! one of the cows passed away after giving birth so she babied that little calf just like a mommy would her baby!! Bottle and All!
6. She was always staying busy. I cant recall a time we were there that she was just sitting around!
7. She thought the world of Clint... I was so thankful that she loved Clint the way she did. Clint always loved going to visit her and Uncle Monte Ray.
8. She might have been a little tiny lady, but she was stronger then most men!! haha
9. I remember when we went to Alabama and got CoCo. We went to her house afterwards and she made sure I had a blanket to keep her in so she would stay warm.
10. Her red couch out in the sunroom!
11. Her and Uncle Ray. She was such a strong person inside and out.
12. She always worried about everyone else and not herself! She wanted to make sure you were comfortable and her house and that you had everything you needed! Even if she had to cook it you would have it!!
13. And now my favorite. Her hugs!! When she hugged you, you could feel her love!! Monday night Cale was asking why she was sleeping and I tried to explain thru tears that she was with Jesus now. He just kept saying her can wake up now. Later that night I went to see her for the last time and Cale said, Her not hurt anymore mommy? I couldn't hold the tears in because he was right! She was with Jesus now and was rejoicing with NO PAIN!! She was with her mama her her husband and Jesus!! She was wonderful. Then Cale said he wanted to hug her! I thought in my mind about her hugs and what they meant to me and how bad I wish she could hug him too!

She will be missed by so many, but I know one day I will see her again!

Friday Fill In...

2009-02-27T08:49:00.003-05:00

1. I'm going to Cancun, I'm getting a new car, I can't wait.

2. Why do I have Olive Grden cravings and not Lean cuisine cravings??

3. How does this diet work, anyway?

4. Every morning, I put Toothpaste on my toothbrush.

5. I consider myself lucky because I have Clint and Cale.

6. One day we’ll see His face.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to staying home since the weather is going to be bad, tomorrow my plans include enjoying my family and resting and Sunday, I want to play in the snow (I hope)!

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-02-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Well... this isnt exactly wordless, but this video leaves me without words.

Last night I was cleaning out Cales toys to go upstairs. He kept asking me where his toys were going. I explained to him that we were going to put them upstairs until Callie gets here. He started playing then came back to me and asked if Callie was coming to his house. I explained that if God wanted her to come to our house she would, but that we needed to pray for her. I went on to tell him that the room we were in would be her room when she got here. And again told him he needed to help mommy and daddy pray for Callie to come. Well I went back to sorting toys then I heard Cale start praying!! He had laid his toys down and folded his hands together and prayed to Jesus for Callie. I cannot tell you what I felt inside, it was a mixture of pride, love, hope and joy! My little boy knows how to pray!! I begin to cry as I listened to him. I am so thankful for his teacher teaching him this. I never realized that he was old enough to understand how to pray! I asked him if he would pray again for Callie so I could tape it for her to see one day. And this one was just as sweet and he even included somemore people in this one. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do!

Kimberly

Prayers Please...

2009-02-24T09:12:00.001-05:00

I came across this blog in one of the blogs I follow. I cannot imagine what this family must be feeling.

http://laurensblog.greenfamily.net/

Friday Fill In...

2009-02-20T09:13:00.003-05:00

1. Oh, I am so SOOOO ready for the Circus tonight!

2. Accept changes, big and little.

3. During the night, I snore.

4. Food prices at the Circus... are you kidding me???

5. Right now I'd like to be on the beach relaxing in the warm weather.

6. My cell phone is my favorite gadget.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to The Circus, tomorrow my plans include relaxing and staying warm and Sunday, I want to have a nice warm lunch then take a nap!

Thankful Thursday...

2009-02-19T08:46:00.002-05:00

Today I have so much to be thankful for... This week has been a rough one. Sunday Cale was so sick. I have never seen him so pitiful. His temp was over 103 and he just layed there. We ended up taking him to the Children's Health Care of Atlanta Urgent Care Center. I am so glad we did, he has pneumonia! He is doing much better today. I am so thankful for all the family and friends that have been praying for him. The Lord has blessed us with an amazing family and amazing friends. I am also Thankful that after a rough weekend things are good in the Cook House! Another praise is that my friends grandmother! She had a liver transplant last week and was doing great one day to not expected to make it the next! But today she is doing great and should be coming home in a few days. If that ain't the Lord I dont know what is!! I don't think I can say it enough, What an Awesome God we serve!!

Friday Fill In...

2009-02-13T08:14:00.002-05:00

1. It seems like I am getting sicker.

2. Clean up when you're done, please?

3. If I thought you wouldn't get upset I'd book a cruise and surprise you!

4. Almost 10 years of memories and love is what I think of most when I think of you.

5. To me, Valentine's Day means men spend too much on flowers, Clint knows not too.

6. Faith in the Lord and my family gives me strength.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to doing nothing! ahhhhh , tomorrow my plans include nothing planned, ahhhhh and Sunday, I want to rest after church!

Thankful Thursday...

2009-02-12T08:37:00.002-05:00

I am trying something new for Thursday's! Instead of the Thursday Thirteen... I am doing Thankful Thursday... things I am thankful for that happened this week!

For some reason this week is draggggggging by!! I haven't felt good since Sunday. However I am alive, that I am thankful for!! Work has been a bit stressful this week with ppl being out on vacation, but I am thankful I have a job! I am thankful my mama lives so close and that Cale loves her so much. Did I mention I am also Thankful that she cooks for us at least one night a week?? (tonight happens to be one of those nights!!) We had our taxes done Friday and I am SO THANKFUL for the surprise of how much we are getting back!! Which means I am THANKFUL that after almost 10 years I will be getting a new car soon!! PLUS we have enough to save for the strike. Please pray that things will get worked out before August and there will be no strike. I am Thankful that I can have Faith in the Lord concerning our next child. I have a friend whos Grandmother had a liver transplant on Tuesday night and today she is already out of ICU and DOING GREAT! Our God is SO Great. or as Cale sings... My God is so Great, so strong and so Mighty theres nothing my God cannot do! Have I mentioned lately how Thankful I am to be a wife and a mommy!! :)

Kimberly

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-02-11T15:19:00.002-05:00

In honor of her memory

Friday Fill In...

2009-02-06T08:42:00.002-05:00

1. I'm looking forward to early release and Valentines Day next week.

2. I don't handle rude people very well.

3. Olive Garden Salad and breadsticks is something I could eat every day.

4. Warmth and sunlight are gonna be here this weekend! Woo Hoo!

5. Discover Mills here I come!

6. I will never have a tattoo(s).

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to Discover Mills and out to dinner, tomorrow my plans include painting my table and chairs and Sunday, I want to relax after church with my boys!

Friday Fill In...

2009-01-30T08:38:00.004-05:00

Week #1

1. Being a wife and mommy makes me happy.

2. I would like to sleep in tomorrow, please.

3. My dinner last night tasted SO good!

4. Friday is my favorite day of the week because I know I have the whole weekend to be with my boys.

5. My family is my best feature.

6. We could learn so much from just waiting on God.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to eat FREE Mexican then staying up late, cuddled on the couch watching TV, tomorrow my plans include going to get Circus Tickets! And shopping for my house! and Sunday, I want to go eat Japanese after church then take a nap!

Thursday Thirteen...

2009-01-29T09:58:00.002-05:00

13 of my Favorite things to eat!

1. Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

2. Olive Garden Salad

3. Zaxby’s Buffalo Tenders with Ranch Dressing!

4. Pepperoncini peppers

5. Lemon Juice

6. Grapefruits

7. Chili Burger and onion Rings from the Varsity

8. Stuffed Mushrooms from Red Lobster

9. Garlic Biscuits from Red Lobster

Publish Post

10. Chips and Salsa at Chilis

11. Onion Blossom

12. Chef Boyardee Boxed Pepperoni Pizza

13. Roast with Mushroom Gravy

Ok… now I would like one of each! haha

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-01-28T15:01:00.002-05:00

Not Me Monday... quick version!

2009-01-26T15:31:00.002-05:00

It wasnt me who went to Ted's Montana Grill TWICE this weekend and both times were Free... Nope Not Me!

It wasnt me who got to spend the day with my mama shopping while Clint kept Cale for me... I have forgot what shopping was like with no kids! :)

It wasnt me who felt a HUGE seigh of relief when Jai got the dent out of mamas car!!

It wasnt ME who wore 2 DIFFERENT shoes to church last night..... NOT ME!!

Thursday Thirteen...

2009-01-22T08:56:00.005-05:00

Thirteen Things that made me happy this week!

It’s a Payday Week!!
I got to eat Olive Garden twice and got to eat Japanese!!
I have worked out all the days I am supposed to!
Our Church… and Pastors, Teen Revival
Bought lots of new stuff for my house, ready to get workin on redecorating!!
The Mexican restaurant wants to buy some of my old western stuff!
Mama got a new baby and more interviews! She better save room for Callie!!
The thought that mama might get a new car and that means I do too! Haha (I promise not to put a dent in this one)
The manager at Georgia Telco
Found out one of my best friend is having another BOY!!!
Having a party tonight with friends!
That even on the rough days, I married my best friend. Im thankful that God reminds me how lucky I am!
Cale and his new dance moves in the car to Willie was a Whale!! LOL LOL LOL

President Bush

2009-01-19T20:15:00.002-05:00

Today is a day of "Change" folks! I'm sad to say it is not the kind of Change I had hoped for! Today will be a celebration for many people, as for me, it's a sad day. I was honored to have President Bush as my president. People can say what they want about him. But he is a God fearing man with convictions. He protected us in the most devastating times we could imagine! He was the one we looked to for encouragement. You may not agree with the war, but I am sure it was something he prayed about more then you could imagine! It was the right decision. That is what America needs... a President who prays and seeks guidance from the Lord. Today, the day of "Change", I fear we no longer have a God fearing President. I think we have a president who thinks he is God. And the sad part is many americans praise him like he is God. I just hope America wakes up before it is too late. I will pray for our new President. I will support our new President on somethings and disagree on many I am sure. But today I am sad to see President Bush step down. I cannot begin to imagine the relief he must feel today. I am honored to have named my son after him. And honored to be an American who believed in him!!

Thurs

2009-01-15T09:16:00.002-05:00

13 Random Things About Me...

1. I HATE Chocolate
2. I am a mommy to a cute little 2 1/2 year old!
3. I love my Church and Church Family
4. I was named after my Aunt Kim
5. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Olive Garden
6. I desperately want another baby in the future!
7. I am 28 years old
8. I have drove the same car for 9 YEARS!
9. My 10th Wedding Anniversary is coming up! June 19!!
10. I have a WONDERFUL family
11. I hate paying bills
12. I have had my job for almost 9 years!
13. Thinks adoption is a wonderful experience! and BLESSING!

Thursday Thirteen...

2009-01-08T09:08:00.003-05:00

13 Things I want to accomplish in 2009!

1. Be a better Christian
2. Pray in a way I never have before
3. Have more patience
4. Work out like I should!
5. Lose the weight I gained back :(
6. Have a new baby... or at least start the process
7. Hoping Clint will avoid the Strike in August
8. Get Cale potty trained!
9. Strive to be the wife and mommy the Lord wants me to be
10. Invite People to Church
11. Get Cales playground finished!
12. Get back on the Dave Ramsey program
13. Enjoy every moment I have with Clint and Cale... life is going by so quickly!

Thank you Lord for the wonderful Blessings in my life!

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-01-07T14:20:00.002-05:00

Tubes are in!

2009-01-06T11:56:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that Cale had his new tubes put in yesterday! He was such a trooper! Although it was tough getting him in his hospital gown, he wanted his dinosaur pj's back on! :) He did much better then last time on the way home, which was good because I was by myself on the ride home... Clint went on into work from the hospital! First stop was McDonalds for him some Chocolate Milk!! The Dr said everything went as planned and that he hoped this would be the last set for Cale. Thank you for all who prayed for him! Here are a couple of pictures from yesterday!

Kimberly

On to Round 2 of Tubes...

2008-12-17T10:38:00.002-05:00

I took Cale to the ENT yesterday and they agreed he needs a new set of tubes! As it turns out the tube that is still in his right ear is lodged in his ear drum! So they need to remove it as soon as possible so it does not leave a permanent hole! The Dr said how about Monday! I panicked! With Christmas, work and going out of town that was not going to be a good idea! So we are hoping for January 5th! They also did a hearing test and said it was great! That was a relief... and PROVES he has selective hearing! haha But dont all kids! I couldnt help but think back to the first time he had tubes put in... here are a few pictures from that day! Keep praying for Cale! and ME!

Tis the Season...

2008-12-15T15:18:00.010-05:00

Christmas is almost here!! I cannot wait! I don't recall ever being this excited about Christmas before. I cannot wait for Cale to wake up and see his gifts under the tree!

He is all about Santa! He had his picture made with him at church yesterday. I asked him what he told Santa he wanted... he said a Dinosaur and a motorcycle hat!! I have no idea where the hat came from!

He also loves to talk about Baby Jesus being born! I cant explain how I feel when he talks about Mary, Joesph and Baby Jesus... I am so glad he is learning about this in school! I feel so blessed that we are able to have him in a Christian school where he can learn about our Savior and all He has done for us. Thank you Jamii for all you do for us... we love you and are so thankful for you.

Here are a few pictures we had made by my friend Kait!

Also, please be praying for Cale.. he goes to the ENT today to see about having more tubes and possibly his tonsils taken out.

Kimberly

It's been a while...

2008-12-05T09:37:00.002-05:00

I did not realize when I started this blog just how hard it would be to keep it up!! First I want to say that I hope you had a very Happy Thanksgiving. I know we did! I am STILL full! It is always nice to have a day just to relax and enjoy time with Family. Cale was so sick bless his heart. He started running a fever on Tuesday and just would not eat. Thanksgiving day he just layed around and that is NOT Cale. Clint started feeling bad on Friday and then Friday night I got sick!! We stayed home all weekend trying to rest and get to feeling better. I ended up taking Cale to the doctor on Monday. He was just pitiful. He ended up having ANOTHER ear infection (2 in 3 weeks!) and bronchitis! The doctor also mentioned his tonsils being huge and that they may need to be removed and have his tubes out back in! I feel so bad for him. I just want to do what will be best for him and make him feel better!! Please pray for him.

We put our tree up this week and got the outside of the house decorated! Cale has done great with the tree. I was kinda wondering how little hands would be! :) I have most of my shopping done and the gifts wrapped under the tree! I am so excited about Christmas this year. I cant wait to see Cales face on Christmas morning. It amazes me how much Joy one little boy can bring to our lives. I cant think of a better time of year to thank the Lord for the many blessings he has given us. There is no way I could ever thank him enough for the gift of salvation, my husband, my son and my family and friends. I want to thank our family and friends for being there for us during our most trying times and then our most joyful times! I dont know what we would do without you.

Here is something just for fun....

Getting to Know you... Christmas Edition!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Both, just depends on the size and if its wrappable!

2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial and pre-lit… cant get much easier than that!

3. When do you put up the tree? right after Thanksgiving

4. Do you like eggnog? That would be a negative!

5. Favorite gift received as a child? Loved my Alf nightgown!

6. Hardest person to buy for? My mama

7. Easiest person to buy for? Cale… it’s hard not to over buy!

8. Do you have a nativity scene? C ale has one in his room.

9. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? A jacket… I will leave it at that!

11. Favorite Christmas Movie? How the Grinch Stole Christmas Cartoon

12. When do you start shopping? Black Friday!

13. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Im sure I have at some point!

14. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Fried Turkey

15. Lights on the tree? Clear

16. Favorite Christmas song? One the Fortune Family Sings

17. Travel at Christmas or stay at home. Home for Christmas… but leaving the next morning for Mississippi! Unless Cale has to have surgery! L

18. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? I doubt it!

19. Angel on the tree top or a star? A Star… Cale calls it his Twinkle Twinkle Little Star! Have I mentioned just how much I love that little boy!!! Oh and Clint LOVES our star… just ask him! hehe

20. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Morning!

21. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Rude People and Traffic!

22. Favorite ornament theme or color? Our First Family Christmas… I bought it and had to wait a while to use it… But I can honestly say I would do it all over again to have Cale. I look at that ornament and it reminds me of how Blessed we are. Thank you Lord for Cale.

23. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Didn’t I already answer this?

24. What do you want for Christmas this year? I already have all I need… but a new camera, new cell phone or a GPS would be nice! haha

Kimberly

Funny Friday....

2008-11-21T10:09:00.000-05:00

An Oldie but Goodie!

Thursday Thirteen...

2008-11-20T08:35:00.002-05:00

Thirteen things I will be doing this weekend:

1. Missing my husband while he is in the woods.

2. Cuddling with Cale since he sleeps with me when Daddy is gone! :)

3. Most likely eating out somewhere!

4. Shopping for stuff for the house, I love redecorating!

5. Shopping for a new purse with my Awesome friend Kait! ;)

6. Laundry

7. Family Pictures!! Cant wait!

8. Seeing family that is coming in town!

9. Texting Clint while he is in a tree and I am laying in my warm bed!

10. Thinking about my great aunt who has cancer.

11. Christmas Shopping!!

12. Buying groceries for Cales Thanksgiving feast and for our Thanksgiving!

13. Going to Church!!

Wordless Wednesday...

2008-11-19T08:09:00.002-05:00

Monday... again!

2008-11-17T08:56:00.003-05:00

If you are anything like me... Mondays seem to come to quickly and too often! Even after being off for 3 days, it seems like the weekends just fly by! I ended up taking Cale to the doctor Thursday after picking him up from school because he was so congested. Well I am glad I did! He had another double ear infection. Bless his heart! He was up and down most of the night so I ended up staying home with him on Friday. We stayed home most of the weekend so he could rest. I am so ready for him to feel better and be Cale. That's all for today... I have alot of catching up to do! Hope you have a good week!

Kimberly

Where's "Loganville?"

2008-11-13T08:42:00.001-05:00

We have recently taught Cale where he lives, goes to church and to school... Loganville! We have some friends on our street and their son is named Logan. But to Cale his name is no longer Logan... its Loganville! lol Everyday we pass his house and Cale says thats "Loganville's" house, and where's "Loganville"... Well earlier this week we passed "Loganville's" house and I told him that Logan was sick and had to go to the dr. So this morning as we were leaving we passed Logans house and Cale asks me out of the blue if "Loganville" felt better! I explained to him that he was feeling better but his ear was hurting... so the whole was to Mrs. Jamii's he talked about "Loganville's" ear feeling better. It amazes me that a 2 year old can remember so much and be so compassionate!

Cale and Logan!

Cale amazes me everyday with what he says and does. I love just sitting and watching him play. I am so thankful that the Lord chose me and Clint to be his parents...

On that note...
If you are wondering why I called my blog "Having Faith" its because during the whole adoption process... thats what we had to have!! Faith... Faith that the Lord was hearing our prayers, Faith that He would know the desires of our hearts, Faith that He would bring us thru the storms we were facing during that time and FAITH that HE would answer our prayers... well on June 27, 2006... that HE DID!! I am so glad I serve a God that loves us despite of our Transgressions. I thank Him everyday for the blessings He has given me. I ask you to help us pray as we "Have Faith" for another little one in the near future.

I will leave you with the verse Clint gave me to hold on to during the storms we faced together...

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

Did I mention how Blessed I am to have Clint in my life?? :)

Let the adventure begin!!

2008-11-12T12:53:00.000-05:00

Well... here I am... doing something I said I would never do... writing a BLOG!

After reading family and friends blogs, I figured it would be a good way to keep everyone up to date on Cale and everything that goes on in the Cook household!!

So bear with me... and know that many of my "ideas" will be copied from your blogs! hehe

Kimberly