Collateral Damage

Ok, I'm ticked. I know, I know, I know...it is the world we live in...it is full of evil and temptation. Heaven knows...just turn on the tv for a minute and you are inundated with sexual explicitness. And sadly, it is the exception to the rule that a man and a woman remain faithful in a marriage anymore. But the sting still hits me afresh everytime. I got a call this morning that a dear friend has suffered this horrid betrayal, only to hear later this morning, another woman tell of her close friend's similar woes, unrelated to each other.

Interestingly, neither conversation prompted by me. Both equally devistating.

Is that what this world has come to? A moment of pleasure? No consideration of the collateral damage?

I looked up the phrase "collateral damage"...because it keeps cropping up in my life...the phrase means "injury inflicted on something other than an intended target." -Merriam-Webster

Injury inflicted.....hurt
On something (someone)......a person

You might not have even intended to hurt anyone by your choice...you might not have entertained the idea that your decision would break the heart of the one who had pledged her life to you. THAT is Collateral Damage. It's what happens unintentionally. But it crushes, nonetheless.

Why? Why must a partner betray another in the most intimate of ways? And trust me, I am not bashing men. Women can betray just as easily as a man can. The two instances I mention above are men, but that doesn't mean it can't happen in the reverse order...or be as equally devistating.

I am writing from the 'cuff' today....not stopping much to edit...because my heart is so full of emotion on the subject. And to clarify...I truly believe cheating can occur well before the clothes come off. Emotional affairs are real, people. Giving another person a place of emotional importance over your spouse is just as much an affair as a physical encounter. Both remove your spouse as the priority in your marriage. In my finite mind, that's black and white. Cheating is cheating.

I'm afraid this might be a very jumbled post to read. I'm quite sure it will be disturbing. My man and I had a moment to talk about the morning's events a few minutes ago. When I got off the phone with John, he softly uttered the words "I love you." I could feel him gently telling me that we are ok. Praise Jesus, I have a man that is emotionally and physically pure in our marriage. He is honest and completely committed. We both are. But that doesn't fireproof it. He recently postulated that there's no way a marriage thrives without the Holy Spirit in a marriage. I agree. The Lord made marriage to be shared between one man and one woman, with the Holy Spirit binding them, interceding on their behalf, and providing a hedge of protection. Yes, I know there are marriages that exist without the Holy Spirit. Exist. Give me one that THRIVES w/o His Power. I dare you to find it.

What now? Well, my heart hurts for my friend, and for all of those who have walked this road. My heart holds those who are affected...those who were not intended to be hurt by another's choice. The spouse, the children, the other person's family...the list goes on. I am praying this day for the places where we are vulnerable to be fortified by His word, by His strength. I am praying for eyes to be wide open to see where the enemy is laying a trap. Even though I don't think John or I would ever betray the other in this way, it is pure foolishness not to be on guard against it.

Praying protection from the evil one over our marriage, and each of yours (or your future spouse) as He leads me today. Forgiveness for where these words are a little scattered...love, kris

it's about time...

What would we do if our fear were put on a shelf and we stepped out in faith on what God would have us do? What would happen if we lived the life He called us to? Can you imagine?

Really?

What if, for one moment, we realized that if He calls us to something, we wouldn't fail?

It's not like he needs us...he is, afterall, the God who made planets, tulips and manatees. But he chooses relationship with us. And in that, he places callings on us. We have the choice to step into them, or to say no.

I think it's about time. Time to put worries aside and step into it. To pursue him fully. Without abandon. It's not about building our own kingdom, but living freely in His.

Summer 09 Update

I haven't been blogging lately. It's been a while. I know. Let's see...since the last post, we have sold a house, bought a new house, moved, unpacked (mostly), begun to update said new house, played T-ball (Meredith) and we have lost our family dog. Lots of exciting stuff, one really bummer thing.

This is one of the last pics I took of Max. Sweet Max. Such a blessing to us for nine years. He was the happiest, friendliest dog you would meet, until he got sick this summer. It's funny how much dogs become part of our families. I miss him terribly. He was my constant companion, enjoying walks, errands in the car, picking kids up from school, and the occasional "Puppy Cone" from Sheridans. John always laughed because Max would "guard" me. Wherever I was, he was there...including my morning shower. He would lay in front of the door while I was in there! In the past week, we have realized one other impressive thing about the guy - he kept our floors so clean! I had NO idea how much he ate the little crumbs off our floor...or how many crumbs fell on our floor in the first place! :) So...here's to you, Max. You were a fantastic dog. You were so loyal, so kind spirited. And the next dog will have big paws to fill that you leave behind.

Okay...movin on...Literally! We moved into our new house in the middle of May, and it's been never ending craziness since then. The boxes are gone, but we are FARRR from being 'settled'. We are planning a small 'remodel' this fall...there is a cool area in our home that (had) a wet bar...but the previous owners sheetrocked it in to make it a storage closet. We are reopening the bar, and are going to update it and the area around it...I promise I'll post pics. It's going to be a really fun area when we get it all done. Anyways, it's a fun house, an amazing blessing. We cannot believe the Lord has blessed us with it...it is incredibly more than we imagined we would find...which makes it all the more obvious that it was His hand on it. And we love it!

Our summer 'entertainment' has been Meredith and the Tball team. What a great group of families. We were so blessed! Our friend Doug Dendy, along with John, Craig Bragg, and a host of other guys helped coach our 13 kiddos this year. A few pics....

Mere's first hit of the year.Mere with her #1 fan, Cameron.
Closing ceremony. Everyone got a trophy, and we snapped pics like it was the College World Series. Good stuff. :)

In other news...I'm working very hard at my photography skills. I took both of the kids for 'photo shoots' this week. And both 'sessions' turned out GREAT! Will post pics after I finish editing a bit. I'm learning how to use Adobe Photoshop. It's a fun program, if I can ever figure out how to use all of the tools! :)

Well...signing off now. Oh...before I close - one more thing. Some of you are Facebook peeps and asked me why I am not Fb'ing for a while. It had become more part of my life than it needed to be, and the Lord showed me that. I have a beautiful daughter who starts Kindergarten in less than a month, a home that needs lots of TLC, and a Jesus who really enjoys spending time with me each afternoon during kids' naptimes. None of those things were getting the attention they deserve because my computer was always on, always checking the status of friends, always chatting. So I'm backing up a bit. We'll see how much and for how long. As He leads.

blessings,

kristi

33 Miles

I sat today with my dear friend....even though we were more than 200 miles apart. We have webcams, so sometimes we 'sneak away' to spend a bit catching up with each other. We have known each other for about 18 years, but as we have grown in adulthood, the Ties that bind us have drawn us much closer together. I always treasure that time with her, and ALWAYS have more questions I wish I had asked her after our time together is over.

It brought me to a point today - there's this song, by a group called 33 Miles, called One Life to Love. In the song, it talks about only getting one chance, one time around to 'get it right'. When its all said and done, we only get one life. After my time with my friend, and i'm in there folding laundry (what else do i do?!), I'm thinking about the things i wish i would have asked her. I text messaged one of them to her, but others remained.

My granddad was in World War II, and held the post of ski patrol in Italy. Fascinating. He died before i ever got the opportunity to ask him about it. My mother-in-law lost the battle with cancer when Meredith was 18 months old. She adored that sweet baby girl...She never knew our son Cameron. He's very much like his darling daddy...strong, particular, and likes order (his room is usually cleaner than all of ours!) I wish I had asked her more about John's childhood, and the things that she remembered from those times. I really wish I could ask her how she convinced him to try new foods...

There are many 'I wish' statements I could make...more than 'I wish' I had. But coming back to my earlier mention of that song by 33 Miles - it talks about only getting one chance to find 'the one thing that you don't want to miss'. What is the one thing you don't want to miss? Your kids growing up? Faith? A marriage that weathers the seasons? (Which...in the pic above, i'm pretty sure was a FUN season...a sweet time of getting away last summer - thanks babe - what a fun memory! ps. sorry my big ole floppy hat is covering up that darlin' grin of yours)

Anyways, as i listened to that song this evening, it really brought it home to me...I'm attaching the words to the song i've been referencing...and I'm reflecting on any areas of my life that might play out as verses in this song.

May I come to a place someday that has no regrets - that has no unspoken "I Wish" phrases...

..alas...i close with the aforementioned words......

One Life to Love

by 33 Miles

He never thought he cared so much about the minute hand

Until he started praying for, a second chance

If he could only do it all again

He'd trade the long nights that he spent behind his desk

For all he missed

He tells his wife, "I wish that this moment in this room was not me dying, but just spending a little time with you."

You only get just one time around

You only get one shot at this

One chance, to find out

The one thing that you don't wanna miss

One day when it's all said and done

I hope you see that it was enough, this

One ride, one try, one life...

To love....

She never thought she cared so much about those little hands

That held on tight the day she left

Til she was scared to death

Sitting all alone on a hotel bed, the end of the road

The sun had set on her big plans

To feel young again

She picks up the phone, dials the number, hears that little voice

That's haunted every single mile, since she made that choice

You only get just one time around

You only get one shot at this

One chance, to find out

The one thing that you don't wanna miss

One day when it's all said and done

I hope you see that it was enough, this

One ride, one try, one life...

To love............

You only get just one time around

Only get one shot at this

One chance, to find out

The one thing that you don't wanna miss

One day when it's all said and done

I hope you see that it was enough, this

One ride, one try, one life........ One ride, one try, one life........ To love.... To love....

I sit tonight to blog. Mostly because I haven't blogged in a month. Secondly, because so much has happened in the last month, I feel I should!

Here's the scoop around the Lowe house these days...Meredith has turned 5 and lost her first tooth!

I took this the morning after she lost it. It was quite traumatic...bless her sweet heart...she is very sentimental...She kept telling me how special this tooth was...how it had been with her, her whole life! I love it...Because she was not yet ready to part forever with her baby tooth, she asked the Toothfairy if she could keep the tooth. She wrote her a note, promising to take care of it. Amazingly, the Toothfairy complied with her request, and still left her $1! (What a nice Toothfairy, in my opinion!)

I also added a pic of Cameron I took that morning. He is getting so big. Currently, his vocabulary is gaining momentum...Right now, he keeps telling us there are sharks everywhere...under his bed, out in the back yard...it's pretty funny. And on another front, he's entered a new stage of eating. Cheeseits. But because he's two, he can't quite say the whole word. So he calls 'em Chee-Chees. Nice.

During the Christmas holidays we went as a family to a Texas Tech Men's Basketball game. Here are a few pics of that outing.

Meredith and Kristi

John and Cameron

John, Cameron and Meredith (with a yellow balloon she was very attached to that day)

Interestingly, we didn't sit the entire game in the seats we originally had. John works for UMC, and gets pretty good seats through that...This was the view of the game when we got there......

But it's funny how Meredith brings such a different perspective to our life. What one would view as good, she saw no 'value' in. Before long, she asked to move seats...namely to the upper deck. So up to the top we went. She told us she liked being able to see the whole game. Oh if we just listen to our kids...they have such wisdom in very simplistic ways. Why be so close to something that you can't see the whole thing? Better to have a view of the big picture. Huh...I think I could stand to learn a little from that idea sometimes!

As for the rest of the 'stuff' going on in the wild lives of the Lowes...it's the normal, day-to-day stuff. We were blessed to get to see some precious family and friends during the Christmas break. We have a webcam now, so it's been fun 'seeing' friends and drinking coffee while we pretended we were in the same town. I love how technology has brought us a little closer. :)

Well, I've been blogging since Grease started on the ABCfamily channel. We're to the part at the dance competition and I think Danny's fixing to dump Sandy to dance with the vixen in the blue/black dress. I love this movie. It reminds me of sleep overs at Ashleigh (Krieger's) house when we were in high school........

Before I close...Happy New Year! Blessings to you and your family in 2009~

kris

Santa Sez.....

So I talked to Santa yesterday. I know, I know, he's busy this time of year, but I told his secretary it was urgent, and he called back. The convo went something like this:

Me: Hey Santa listen, I kinda have a problem. I have no Christmas spirit this year. The tree is up, and the kids have forced me to put theirs up in their respective rooms, but as for the rest of the house, it just ain't gonna happen.
Santa: Ok. Go on.
(don't you just love that Santa? Such a listening ear...)
Me: So here's the deal. I'm a bit worried that you won't be making a stop at my house if I don't get all the other Christmas Crap put up in every corner of the house. And if you don't stop, I'm gonna have some serious explaining to do to my very precious children. So....
Santa: Hey Kristi, do you remember why we have Christmas?
Me: Yes. It really isn't about you at all. It's about Christ's birth.
Santa: Yes, dear child, you are right. And as long as you teach those kids about Him, I don't care if you decorate a single darn shelf, or put lights on the house, or anything else that makes it look like a "50% off sale at Hobby Lobby" Hurricane hit your house. Keep the Spirit of Him in Christmas, dear child. Those kids won't give a hoot about your house. They just want to feel the joy of the Celebration.
Me: Thanks Santa.
Santa: Oh, Kristi?
Me: Yes?
Santa: One more thing. Will you still leave me some Jesus' Birthday Cake? I love that you do it different...everyone else leaves me cookies. And I sure do love that cake you make.
Me: Really, Santa?! I never knew you liked it so much. Sure, I'll still leave you a piece of cake. Thanks again, Santa.
Santa: No prob, bob....I mean...HO HO HO! Merry Christmas!!!

It's about the SPIRIT of the season. Not the presents, the food, the clean perfect house that smells like cinnamon and pine and enough lights to make Clark Griswald jealous. It's about remembering a sweet new baby that came to save this world.
kris

Halloween 2008

I know, I know, I know.....it's been since Sept since I posted. This may sound weird, and if so, sorry - but the things in my head these days have been pretty deep...and I have attempted several times to write, but the words just don't seem to do justice to what is inside my heart and brain. There are two posts I wrote, but just couldn't post. I think sometimes the Lord uses my time to write as a time to teach me, and I just didn't feel released to post the things He was pressing on me. It was a time of learning to hear and heed, not write and read!

All that being said, I am here now, with Halloween pics to share. Here are a few of my babes from the Halloween season. Cameron was a skeleton one night, and a Red Raider the next night (yeah, we divided it up over two nights...long story). Meredith decided to be a monster this year. Our family rule is that we can't be anything scary...so after she told me she wanted to be a monster, I told her the rule. About 2 days later, she came to me requesting to be Sully - the monster from Monsters, Inc. She rationalized that he was a nice monster because he helped Boo get back to her house. How can you argue with that?! :)

As Memzie says, A little bit of 'Sas'!It really cracked me up when I was taking their pics...they both went straight for the tree in the front yard....its so funny to me how that's where they want to 'pose'. Oh well, I really don't care, as long as they'll sit still long enough to snap a pic! (and forgive us for the weeds in the flowerbeds...I would rather play with kids than pull weeds!)

Well, until next time....and if I don't post again until New Year's.....Merry Christmas! :) ha!

kris

Dear Friends,

I am crazy. I chase my children all day. Then I sleep. I keep up with most of you through Facebook. The profound thoughts I have are in my journal. Come over and read it sometime. Bring coffee when you come.
Love,
Kristi

Cameron's Birthday

You graced us, little man, two years ago today. Into this world you came, full of spirit and energy and passion. And you haven't stopped since! What a treasure you are to us. What a blessing you are. Daddy and I talked today about the circumstances surrounding your birth. From the early stage of the pregnancy when my body did not want to support you....yet the Lord saw fit to give Dr. Belle-Henry the wisdom to correct it..........to the day you were born, cord around your neck so precariously....and the diligence of the NICU team that worked to clear your lungs. The lump in my throat does nothing to express how utterly grateful we are for the provisions over you in those early days...and much more so for the covering over you now as a Two Year Old!

A JOYFUL, happy kid!

What a HAM you are now....this is your CHEESE!!!! smile! :)

Just a little ornery.......hummm....will I get in trouble for crossing the line?!.......But those EYES! Sweet, charming, beautiful! :)

What a joy it is to be your mom. I love watching you grow...It is so fun to see you learn and change and become the man the Lord created you to be. I love that you are firm, you are strong...you are passionate. I love YOU Cameron John Lowe - Happy 2nd Birthday!

Cameron with Jordan, his buddy. Are they SO cute or what?!
Joey going off the diving board!

Meredith jumping off the diving board...nice hair, girlfriend. (Seriously, she'll kill me someday for posting this pic with her hair like that!) :)

Oh the joy of swimming! We headed to the pool this afternoon with my friend Vanessa and her kids Joey and Jordan. It was a blast. Our pool closed on Sunday (don't they know that stay-home moms still need a pool until after Labor-Day?!), and since their pool didn't, we joined them for the afternoon. Thanks 'Nessa!

It's been a while since i've posted....here are a few things that have happened in our world:

1. Meredith found out she has Ms. Jiou for Pre-K 4 this year. Our 'tea-party' is on Friday. She is thrilled to no end about this fact, and is already plotting conversations and such with her new friends. I think her outfits are already picked out for the first week, and she's already guessing who will be in her class. She also has a countdown on her calendar until school starts (8 days). What a mess. A 4 year old mess!

2. Cameron John Lowe is ALL BOY. He runs constantly. CONSTANTLY! And, because he is growing rapidly right now, his feet and coordination have not caught up with his speed......so last Tuesday, he tripped while running full speed through my kitchen, and BROKE HIS NOSE on the kitchen cabinet. It was awful. He was screaming, and it bled profusely. Oh there's nothing worse than your baby getting hurt!! We took him to the dr, and it didn't have to be set (thank you, sweet Jesus!!!), but it sure left a big ole bruise across his nose. Of course, it didn't help matters that a day later, with the monster bruise on his nose, he is running (notice the pattern?) down our hall, trips and hits his cheek on the corner of the door to Mere's room. Nice. BIG strawberry-bruise on his face.....coupled with the broken nose. I just wanted to put a sign on his neck that said, "Please don't call CPS on us. He's just uncoordinated!"

3. In other exciting news, John and I have begun training for a half-marathon. several folks from john's work are participating, so we decided to join on the fun! Its called a Rock n Roll Marathon. There are bands playing at each mile marker....So if i totally run out of steam on mile 9, I'll just stop and listen to the Goo-Goo Dolls or John Maier for a while. Right?! I think I am just sick of where I am physically. I can't seem to get past this point in my 'baby weight loss' - IS it still considered "baby weight" when the kid is 2?! I digress......anyways, I am excited about the training. I'm using a program that Hal Higdon devised. Good stuff.

Okay...my timer went off. I have started limiting my time on the computer so i get stuff done around the house. So sad that I must discipline myself in this way. I feel like a child. However, the time seems to slip by if I don't set a timer. i'll look up and realize i've been on for over an hour. No wonder my house is a disaster!!!!!!!! Signing off to go tackle the darn laundry room........much love to each of you out there.

Kristi

Ps. oh, and if anyone wants to join me in the Half-Marathon....it's going to be in San Antonio, on Nov 16th. I'd love a walking/running buddy! :)

The Lathams Rock!

I HEART the Lathams! All of you! Even Papa Scott who didn't get to chat with us :( What treasures you each are! Beautiful folks who have hearts for the Lord. I love it...love it...love it! Also, you know I enjoyed our time together this afternoon (how nice to just 'sit a spell'!).......but I am certain that MAX did! The old dog didn't know what to do with all that lovin' :) ("Thanks for the scratches", says Max the dog) Blessings over your home until next time!

I'd like a Grande Sugar-Free Vanilla Soy Latte, no foam please.....

Yeah, it's a mouthful to say, but oooohhh, so good! The kids and I got out this evening to run errands...and I stopped by Caffeineville to get an evening cuppa joe. I actually meant to get decaf........but alas....It's 11:30p.m., and those who know me, know that I'm usually asleep by now. I'm more of a morning person than a night owl. (My mom wonders how I came from her womb, loving the morning the way I do!) But I'm a goober (which doesn't take much to figure out)...and drank a -say it with me-(FULLY CAFFEINATED)-Grande-Sugar-Free-Vanilla-Soy-Latte-no-foam-please this evening. They are yummy.

But I am wired!

San Antonio!!!!!!

Meredith took this pic of John and I...Our little budding photographer!

Well, I hadto post our most recent traveling experience......John had a conference to go to, so we loaded up and headed to the Riverwalk for a few days. It was hot there (you know that sticky-hotness that only San Antonio and Houston has!?), but we braved it....We took the kids to the Riverwalk for the first time (the pics are of us at Casa Rio on the RW, the BESTEST place to eat chips and salsa and Mexican food)!

Okay, I tell no lies. Cameron took this picture. Really. Meredith wanted a pic of the two of us. Cameron had just seen Mere take one of us (the one above), so he's giving me the 'uh-uh, mine' bit. (that's 2 year old code for "My turn.") So I let him 'take' the picture - he pushed the button while i held the camera.
And then, of course, I got to take his pic! He stood up in the chair the whole time we were there, eating his quesadilla. I think he just wanted to see the Riverwalk Boats go by. Really, big guy? Well, how about a ride in one of 'em?!

Here's Cameron and Daddy, on the boat on the riverwalk.

John, Cameron and Meredith

The next day we decided to go to San Marcos for some outlet mall shopping. I do believe I was much more excited about this than my better half. Something about acres and acres of bargains does not enthrall John the way it does me. But he pressed on, with a very good demeanor (as he always has) and even found a bargain or two himself. Attaboy, babe! (Maybe my shopping prowess is rubbing off on him. Or he decided he deserved a treat for hauling me and the two kidlets to Shopping-Mania. Whichever.) Anyways, I found some good bargains...pants at the Ralph Lauren outlet for John, and darling khakis at Gap for Mere. I even bought some lotion from the Bath and Body Works outlet - talk about a throwback....Flowering Herbs lotion. I remember when BBW opened (we were in early high school, i think)....that was THE scent to buy. Oh man I loved that stuff. So I bought a little. It takes me back. Yeah, I'm a dork. I do know that. But the funniest part of our day trip to San Marcos was that we let the kids get a toy from the toystore before we left. Meredith loves swimming, and picked out a snorkel and mask. check it out.....

Out of focus, but Mere with Daddy, checking out the new scuba gear!

Did I mention that we ate really, really well when we were there? I mean, we could not avoid partaking of the plethora of fabulous mexican food restaurants!! It really would be a loss to not give props to one more restaurant.....here's the link to The Alamo Cafe. Go there if you are ever within 100 miles of the place. Seriously good tortillas...

Well, I'm off to go workout . I have new tennis shoes that I should break in......and plenty of calories to burn off from the weekend! :)

Chicken

There is a phenomenon going on at my house that I must bring light to. It is a mystery that I cannot understand, although some conspiracy theories are beginning to emerge. I am fairly certain there are forces greater than me at work here.

Let me explain. I have health conscious issues that gravitate me toward lean meats, healthy choices. Fish is wonderful, pork is good (except for this one time that i really screwed it up...), and of course, our diet needs CHICKEN. Chicken. White meat is one of the best things you can do to prevent colon cancer. (as well as high-fiber diets). Chicken should not be a big deal, should it? Grilled chicken, baked chicken, pan-cooked, fajitas.......CHICKEN!

Now for the phenomenon going on.....It seems that my family, dear husband and oldest daughter, primarily, can SENSE the nights when Chicken is on the menu. It's like they know - they have this internal alarm that goes off - CHICKEN TONIGHT! IT'S BEEN A WHILE! CHICKEN!!!!!! I BET SHE'S COOKING CHICKEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Let me prove my point. A few weeks ago, as we were leaving my daughter's gymnastic's practice, John pops up and says, "Hey, I think Fuddruckers sounds good for dinner. What did you have planned for dinner?" Chicken, I say. "Well, how about I (John) treat everyone to Fuddrucker's?" Off to Redmeatville we go. (Let me reiterate, i have NO aversion to Hamburgers or Fuddruckers. Don't sue me, Fuddrucker's. It's wonderful...follow me here...).

Then, last night. I had chicken in the fridge, marinating, to grill with veggies. The kids and I went swimming....and on the way home..........Meredith pops up and asks for "Chopstick House". Chopstick House, aka, Pei Wei. She loves Pei Wei. We all do. Who doesn't?!! So, we get home, and she proceeds to tell Daddy that she wants Pei Wei for dinner. "Please Daddy, please. I realllllllyyyy want Chopstick house!!" He tells her that sounds great...."Honey, what did we have planned tonight?" Guess what we had for dinner last night?......

There is 'fowl' play involved. I'm convinced. I'm thinking that it's the Chicken's getting back at the Cow's from the Chick-fil-A commercials...."Eat Mor Cow"........Or it's a dark spirit that doesn't want my family to eat white meat. Or it's that my husband hates chicken.

Emily, Elly, Lara and Me.....plus our 9 wonderful kids!

Good friends are like stars,

You can't always see them

But you know they're always there.

Meredith, Cameron and I have just returned from a weekend with my favorite friends in the world. We stayed at the Gateway Getaway Cottages (YOU MUST GO THERE! They are amazing, wonderful, peaceful retreats!!!). It was a wondeful weekend...good friends, good food, laughing 'til i thought we would split our sides....and lots of those moments when we remembered how precious the gift of friendship is. We rode horses (the kids did), drank coffee (no, not the kids), went to the zoo, and played in the pool. It was funny to me how each of us has remained connected for so many years...we've known each other for more than 20 years now. So the history it brings to the 'gatherings' adds an element of trust you just don't find very often. I think I speak for all of us that we love the fact that when we get together, we just pick up like we had been together a few days ago. The three of these women are some of the most Godly women I know, and it thrills me to no end that the Lord has allowed us the joy of knowing one another. I know Carla has uploaded pics on her blog, so check them out...but i had to add a few that made me smile.

Lara and Jackson playing Horsey! Ride 'em cowboy!

Cameron's first ride on a horse!

Meredith and Cameron riding BB the horse, helped a bit by Jeff, who graciously helped Meredith decide that TWO horses in her back yard would be a good idea. We'll getcha back, JTC, trust us. John's already plotting revenge..... :)Loving the horse ride, are ya sweet girl?! Happy face!!!

Cameron and his buddy TSC making dirt look good.Happy face of a little boy who got to play in dirt, ride a horse, and top it off with a bag of Goldfish! Rough life, Cam!

The next day, we headed to the Zoo - Good times!

TR, TSC, and Cameron checking out the 'gator or croc. whichever that thing is. pretty cool, huh boys?!Everyone feeding the giraffe.

Mere and KG feeding the giraffe.

One of my most favorite girls holding her youngest treasure. Thank you Lord for the gift of wisdom and grace within this beautiful one. She is such a treasure to me, and so many others! Smile if you loved the weekend in Lemons Gap!!!!!!! Thanks Tahtee for the cottage, TaTa for the food, and Em, El and Lara for the precious gifts of friendship. Can't wait for the Winter Edition! Rancho Loma anyone? Or Oplin for dancing? Hummmm.........with us, you never know!

TAG?!

I wasn't good at tag in elementary school, and apparently, I am not so good with tag now! Diana 'tagged' me back in April...but I didn't know it until today. I'm pretty sure the object of this is to reveal 7 things about yourself, and then tag other people. So, with no particular order, here goes!

1. In honor of Father's Day, a random insight about my childhood - we were a hardworking, middle class family...and in the summer, my dad would earn extra money by mowing other people's yards. I would go with him and mow while he would do the edging. He would pay me a little for each of the yards we did. I still love doing yard work, and I am thankful that he taught me the value of sweat, hardwork and serving others.

2. I am addicted to Sudoku (the square game with the numbers). I profess that I play at least one game everyday. Somehow, it is my way of convincing myself that I still have braincells wired to do things besides change diapers and make PBJ sandwiches!

3. Private dream....I wish I could paint. I love colors, and mixing them...I love the sight of blank canvas and oil paint at Hobby Lobby, and wish I could buy some just to mess with it. Hummmm...Maybe someday I will paint (something other than color by number.)

4. I snore. Loudly. Ask my precious husband or my girlfriends who bunked with me when we went to the lake every summer....poor unsuspecting people....

5. I have a weird fettish with antioxidants. We recently discovered two new 'power fruits' - Goji berries, and Mangosteen. I've been a fan of Acai for a while now, as well as the other usual suspects. I guess this ties into the goal of living to be 100 and seeing my name on the Smucker's label when Williard Scott does birthdays on the TODAY show. And yes, I know he'd be like 188 when I turn 100.......but I bet some rascal in his 60's will pronouce my name just fine and tell everyone that I like Antioxidants, oil painting and going to Starbucks for my morning java. And that I am the reigning world champion of Sudoku.

6. My mom recently gave me a watch that was my great-grandmother's. I took it to the jeweler this week, and they fixed it so I can wear it. I love wearing it and thinking about her wearing it when she was raising my grandmother (who was the coolest lady I've ever known, fyi).

7. Let's see....one more thing....a bit vulnerable...but okay, here goes: I adore my husband. Today is Father's Day, and I believe he is the best thing that ever happened to me and our children. I love that I get to spend the rest of my life with him. I love seeing him with our children and often regret that his mom, Mary, isn't here to see the Dad that he is. I know with certainty that she was so proud of you as a Daddy to Meredith, and would have been amazed at how you have embraced the role of fatherhood to Mere and Cameron. You are a jewel of a man. I love you.


okay.......I now TAG Amy! (This gives you an excuse to sit down and not pack for a few minutes!) hee hee!

Things I Never Thought I Would Write

It's been a good week...I just love summer. It's filled with swimming, sleeping a little later, and just a bit more relaxed than the school year. And of course, TeeBall (WILL IT EVER END??????!!!).

I have to update what the kids are doing these days. It's great. They are just growing so fast and i can't believe it sometimes when i notice that Mere's legs are getting SO long, or Cameron's baby face is beginning to slim. A few random signs that my children are growing:

1. Meredith can go get cups and water from the sink without me now. It involves scooting a chair over to the cabinet....but seriously, that is a true accomplishment!
2. Cameron is now capable of terrorizing Meredith on purpose. He thinks it is hilarious to grab her shirt and just pull so that she screams and runs away.
3. I was the last person out of bed this morning. What? Did I write that correctly?! Oh yes, Meredith got Cameron out of his crib, and they were playing in her room this morning when I came in. Oh don't worry, they were only there for about 5 minutes. She came in and asked me if she could go get him. (I guess she secretly likes him terrorizing her! ha!)
4. We went swimming today, and Meredith didn't have to have floaties or me beside her. She can swim so well now that she goes and does her own thing with her friends. Crazy. Seems like yesterday I was doing Mommy and Me classes at Tech with my other buddies when we were preggers w/ our 2nd kids!
5. Meredith has entered the "mommy" phase of her childhood. The other day, she picked out Cam's clothes and dressed him by herself! (Do you think that she could start doing that everyday?!)

yep, they are growing alright. I know....I know....I hear it all the time - "They grow up so fast! Enjoy this time, it passes too quickly!" Well, let's just say that I'm trying to heed the advice...thus reflecting tonight. Love to each of you - Kristi

Neighbors

I know this is a random post, but really, I must. It seems when I was little, neighbors were people you knew, borrowed sugar or eggs from...and your kids played with their kids next door until after dark and your mom called (screamed) your name until you came home. You knew everyone on your block, and you knew which house the old geezer lived in (and how to annoy him!) Sadly, it seems, neighborhoods of that sort are disappearing. We all have such technologically advanced worlds that involve blackberry's, cell phones, ipods, and Garmins, that we find little time to get to know the people that live 10 steps away.

I happen to live on a street that is quite sweet, for the most part. The two ladies across the street have lived there for more than 30 years, and one of them has so much family that it's a virtual party all the time! We love the fact that there are kids around and besides the creepy guy on the bike (seriously, this guy is on his bike ALL the time), it's a sweet little block to live on.

Which brings me to my post. I debated whether or not to post this, but I must. It's just on my heart. My son's bestest buddy is moving in 10 days. He lives next door. His name is Charlie. (Cameron calls him Car-ee. It's great. He just points at their house now and says, Car-ee. Car-ee. Gotta love it.) Car-ee is absolutely the cutest, most adorable kid. And his parents rock too. They moved in 3 years ago, and have been the best neighbors a girl could ask for. I love that they show up with popsicles or call to ask if Charlie can have a 'brother' for the evening. They've been known to get phone calls from a hysterical mom (uh-hum.....me), when my kiddos were sick (did I mention that Andy's a pediatric dr.?) and I didn't have a clue what to do. They have played pracitcal jokes on us (remember the Tractor Protective Services incident?!), and made me laugh until i nearly peed my pants. They have just made this block so wonderful. And I am sad. I am sad to see them move. Of course, I am ELATED for them, on this new adventure in Virginia. It's just that they have been a blessing in so many ways...a refreshing reminder that good neighbors still exist, but are so very hard to come by. And I know that even though miles will separate us for a time, I trust that the Lord has allowed our paths to cross for good reason. What a treasure you three are to us, BowmanWest - and I am certain that wherever our lives take us, I'd take you as neighbors anyday. God bless you guys, may he keep you safe and protected as you walk faithfully - Kristi

Memorial Day Weekend

I am sitting here this morning watching Cameron eat Frosted Flakes (they'rrrrreeee GREAAAT!) like it's his JOB. Meredith is sound asleep. John left for work a little while ago. I have to say, this is my favorite time of the day. The buzz around the house isn't in full swing, it's relatively quiet, and I'm still in my pj's drinking coffee.

First things first - a shout out to my dad and mom - They just finished their first year of Coach Miller's Driving School! Congrats on surviving the first year - and I pray continued success. What a wonderful group of people that have come along side you guys in this venture. Thank you to all of you who have blessed them in such personal ways.

Question of the day.....Has anyone out there ever wanted to move, but knew it wasn't time yet? And even though you knew it wasn't time, you still REALLY wanted to?! We met with our real estate agent this week to talk about selling our house and moving...either to Abilene or somewhere else in Lubbock. And although we could buy something newer or in a 'better' neighborhood, something keeps us from taking the BIG step. When we pulled up to our house last night, I just looked at our cute little trees (you guys know HOW much i love the trees in my front yard, right? They seriously, are my babies. there's def a tree-hugger within me!), and all of the things that make our house, OUR house, and i knew we couldn't do it yet. As much as our heart yearns for us to live in Abilene, closer to dear friends and blessed family, it isn't time yet. And as much as I want it to be time to move, I don't want to move if it isn't right for our family. John and I agreed last night that what the Lord is doing with us here in Lubbock isn't finished yet. That being said, all of you blog-readers who are wishing and hoping to get the call that we're on our way to A-town.....i'm sorry to say it's not happening just yet. The desire is there, but the avenue isn't. **And on a side note, as I was proof-reading this....I kept seeing the same theme - TIME - and hope that each of you know that even though the TIME isn't right yet - we trust that the Lord will open the doors and make the path right when and if He allows. Thanks to all of you sweet folks...you guys are the reason we wish we lived there!

On a much brighter note, summer at the Lowe house has officially begun! The pool out at The Falls opened this weekend, and we have decided it is going to be the Year of the Floaties. My kids may have tan lines from wearing floaties so much, that's how often we're going to be at the pool!!!!!! Meredith is such a natural swimmer - and i'm totally a lover of the sun....so Cameron better put on those happy floaties and join us in the kiddy pool! Woo hoo!!

quick update....since beginning this post, Cameron finished his 3rd bowl of Frosted Flakes, and has decided he's had enough. For now. Boys!.......

Also on the summer agenda....TRAVELING! We are a traveling crew this summer....John and I are taking "holiday" in Cancun the first week of July, and then going to San Antonio at the end of July (can you say HOT?!). We have decided the kids will be completely spoiled rotten by August from staying with my parents! Meredith knows about our trip to Cancun, but is not as concerned about our trip as she is about the fact that she gets to MOVE (her words!) to Abilene for a week! She keeps telling me that she can't wait to move there so she can swim in TaTa and Papa Bear's pool THREE times a day. Here's a peek at what she believes should (and most likely will!) transpire each day:

Mere: "Mom, when Cam and I move to TaTa's house can i swim every day. So, after breakfast, we'll swim, and then we'll eat lunch and take a nap. Then we'll swim again. Then we'll eat dinner and swim again after that."

Oh she's a mess. But I wouldn't have her any other way! On the Cameron homefront, welcome to the world of boys. Since he finished his three bowls of cereal this morning, I have been playing baseball between typing. Here's the scenario: I hold the ball in my hand, he hits it like it's on a tee with his little plastic bat, then runs the "bases" around the living room. I am typing while he runs. It makes for interesting typing to make sure my thoughts seem somewhat complete!

Well, I should post. Seems i have a mountain of laundry to do, and a little boy that needs a clean diaper. More soon. Love each of you!!!! Kris

Stillness

Well, I sit down today to share something with you. Yes, it's been a while since i've written. I've actually tried several times to write, but things came up before the words got finished. Plus, it's been a bit of a 'season.' Between the small house fire, the gas line, the water heater, the air conditioner, the FENCE!, and now, my car........it's been a wild stretch! But today, I read some words that I really must share. and in light of my recent craziness, I do believe this is quite appropriate. The words come from Graham Cooke, and he is talking about learning to be still before God. I hope they bless you like they blessed me today! Love, Kristi

Graham's Monthly Teaching: Stillness

"Being still opens a channel of communication between us and Heaven. All of us have a background conversation going on in our minds. Head noise, as my friend, the British psychologist, Jim McNeish calls it, is an internal voice, a soundtrack for our lives. It's similar to a special feature on a DVD: an ongoing, one-way, stream of consciousness conversation, commenting on our life as it unfolds. Stillness is not about getting somewhere quiet, although that often helps, but about stilling that voice in your head. It takes discipline to quiet that voice, but you must do it. And you can do it, because God is with you.

It is this initial head noise that we convert into "prayers" when we rush too quickly into intercession. Because we have not stilled ourselves, we pray in our own strength, and we come to God's door under the weight and panic of the circumstances facing us. We speak often and are rarely still-in fact, we are the complete opposite of God.

God is always still and He rarely speaks. So there is a difference between the Lord speaking in us, and the Lord speaking to us. When we say, "Oh, God spoke to me," what has normally happened is that out of the storehouse of words, thoughts, meditations, conversations, and Scripture we carry in our spirit, God has selected something previously said to you and brought it back into your consciousness. Like a computer user loading a file, God pulls up the treasure He has already saved in us. "Oh yeah," we think. "That makes sense. That's the Lord speaking." God punctuates His silence with words, and when God speaks, it's an event. When He speaks to you, something is imparted. His presence is profound. He spoke once, and the whole earth was created. When God speaks, something happens, something is shaken, something is created and produced. When the Lord speaks to us, there is always a dynamic residue of His presence which remains with us-it is a signature moment!

In Psalm 46:10, God told David, "Be still, and know that I am God." It was a word that brought a profound sense of the presence of God to David in what were difficult circumstances. It's interesting that Psalm 46 began with an earthquake and finished with "Be still." Only God can talk about stillness in the midst of an earthquake. When the whole landscape of your life is shifting beneath your feet, only God can say, "Be still, and know that I am God."

Knowledge of God comes through peace and stillness. God wants to send us into battle, but if we don't find stillness beforehand, how will we ever find peace in the fight? Rest is our best weapon against the enemy, because rest allows us to hide in our secret place in God. The devil hates you with a malevolence and malignancy that is unimaginable, but he's not stupid: he won't chase you into the holy of holies-the very presence of God-because he knows who he's going to meet there. We need to learn how to use God as our refuge, as our fortress, as our high place, as our secret place where the enemy cannot touch us. If the enemy cannot find you, he cannot hurt you. God has provided a secret place in Him for you.

You have to lose your ability to panic if you're going to walk with God. You have to lose your ability to worry and be anxious if you're going to walk with God. There is a secret place set aside for each one of us. God is love and in His love He has set aside a place where you can live in Him no matter what. He loves to teach people where that place is, because when His children get into their secret place, they can fully enjoy life. It doesn't matter what comes against them--they rise to the challenge. Without stillness, our experience of God is limited. Stillness is the precursor to rest in the Lord; a spiritual discipline drawing us into a continual experience of His presence. It is this rest, this stillness, this secret place of God, which releases unbroken communion with Him; it releases what the Bible calls unceasing prayer."