3 hours was enough...

One of my favorites, John Piper, answers the question of how one man's suffering become the suffering of millions.



He was enough. His glorious sacrifice was enough to cover the sins of the entire world.
My Jesus conquered death and became the curse to reverse the curse. I live because He died for me.

And the best....

is yet to come.

Spring has sprung

Well, it appears that Spring has arrived here in little 'ole Tallahassee. Aside from a little thunderstorm activity on Sunday, this weekend was absolutely perfect, and all the signs point to a new season.

• Our azaleas began blooming seemingly overnight Friday, just in time for the official start.

• The yard-salers were out in full force Saturday morning, and yes, I was one of them.
• The Bradford Pear trees all over town look amazing, with their tiny little white flowers.

• Easter dresses have taken over the little girl sections of Kohl's and Wal-Mart.
• And finally, on Saturday, I spent a while watching three brand-new lizards explore our porch. Watching them brought me back to the fond childhood memories of my sisters pet lizards, Larry & Maggie. Larry & Maggie were married and although they were "not domesticated", that never stopped Barbie from talking to them, catching them, and wearing them on her ears. 

All of these signs of new life. I love the signs of new life.

Madigan Ruth Halaby

She's here! My precious niece is finally here. After a quick and painful labor, Maddie arrived Saturday, February 20th, at 1:44 p.m., absolutely perfect. I'm so thankful that my sister allowed me to be a part of the special moment, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. And as big brother Quinn says about baby Maddie, "it's so cute!!" in the most high-pitched squeal ever, she really is adorable.

Here is the beautiful 8 lb. 1 oz., 21 in. long baby girl.

WARNING: PICTURE OVERLOAD!!!

Our first glimpse. The doctor said he needed to start charging by the pound.

Me & my girl, for the first time...

Perfection.

Beautiful mama & baby girl.

Proud Grammy & big brother

Maddie's first bath. She was mad.

Big brother Quinn holding baby Maddie.

So sweet.

All dressed up...ready to go home.

What an angel!

Sleepy girl.

Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. Psalm 127:3

I love my Valentine

Never much a fan of Saint Valentines Day, I didn't expect much, nor did I desire much, for the holiday this year. I got Wade a card, and I expected he would probably get me the same. I expected the card to make me cry, which it did, and I expected that to be the extent of our celebration of the "day of love."

My husband outdid himself. Now, we are trying hard to not spend extra money on frivolous things, so we had decided we weren't going to go out somewhere nice to eat. It was probably crowded everywhere anyway. Wade told me he was going to cook for me, but wasn't going to tell me what he was fixing. Well, after church he gave me a hint: surf & turf. Ok, I can deal with that.

Our menu: Sauteed scallops, grilled Mahi Mahi, and ribeye steaks, complete with sides and wine. A little Third Day playing in the background. Dinner was amazing. He did so good! Everything was delicious and cooked to perfection. I wish I had taken pictures, but we were hungry and it smelled so good! I'm so thankful for my Valentine! I think he really loves me.

As good as Wade treated me yesterday, I have to admit that he is not my first love. He knows this. I told Wade long before I even knew that I loved him, that there was another man in my life, and that he would always have to take second place. You see, I'm blessed to have two Valentines. Jesus Christ, lover of my soul, is my Valentine. This holiday is supposed to represent love, and there is none who represents love greater than He does. He didn't cook me supper, didn't buy me a card that made me cry, didn't give me roses or candy or jewelry.  He gave so much more. He laid down His life for me. He chose death to give me life. The Father loved me enough, even with all of my unloveliness, to give up His own child. The only reason I have the capability of loving Wade, or anyone else for that matter, the way that I do, is because He first loved me. What an overwhelming thought!

We love because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19 (NIV)

I love my Valentine.

Seriously?

Tomorrow's forecast.

Whatever happened to global warming?

Mr. Robertson, God still loves you

Upon hearing Pat Robertson's absurd comments concerrning the situation in Haiti, my first reaction was that of anger. After simmering for a little bit, and praying about my anger/frustration, I knew that this was probably not the most appropriate response for someone who is trying to share the love of Christ (I'm speaking of me, not Pat Robertson). Since I'm not the best writer, and struggle sometimes to convey my thoughts, I decided I would share a link to one of my favorite authors, Don Miller and his response to Pat Robertson's recent comments. Well said, Mr. Miller, and Mr. Robertson, even in your ignorant, hurtful statements, God still loves you.

Praying for Haiti

My heart is so broken for the people of Haiti. As I continue to hear reports and updates on the magnitude of the damage & loss of life, the utter destruction is overwhelming. I'm donating to Compassion International. Consider donating to them to aid the people of Haiti, or donate to one of many other organizations committed to bringing relief to this country in great need.