And so ends another Thanksgiving and 2 week long birthday celebration for Justin. He is now 7 years old. I feel like his childhood is just flying by and I'll be 50 before you know it.
Well this year, we started Thanksgiving with my side of the family in SC and had pizza and cupcakes instead of turkey. It was kind of nice.
On Thanksgiving day, I had to let go of my first ever doggy. It was the saddest thing I've done in a LONG time. Not only am I sad, but now the other dog just cries all the time. It's gut wrenching. We buried her in the front yard, the one place where she could always find a little peace and quiet away from Zeek. She was the best dog anyone could ever ask for. She was old and it was her time to go.
On Thanksgiving evening, we enjoyed a delicious meal with James' mom, and his side of the family here in NC. We ate entirely too much to then make a 4 hour drive up the highway.
The rest of the weekend was spent in WV with James' dad and his family there. He went hunting for the first time with his dad on Saturday. They took Justin and everyone had a great time. Even brought home a deer. That's about as far as I care to go about that. LOL
Since I stink at blogging, it will probably be Easter before I update again. But in closing, I'd just like to say how thankful for I am for the people in our lives that make us what we are.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Monday, September 19, 2011
Family
WOW, I stink at keeping up with a blog. But atleast I update on the important things. For those of you that aren't up to date, on August 20th, my husband spoke to his father for the first time in about 27 years. It was a surreal moment for both of us. Something we had dreamed of and spoke about hundreds of times in the 12 years that we've been together. We always watched those reunion shows, well I watched them. James couldn't really. And I always cried through every single one, never dreaming that last Friday would ever come.
On Friday, September 16th, I watched my husband become complete. His empty hole was now full. So full that it has overflowed. :) There was a heart felt embrace (no tears cause their men LOL). Then we sat and visited for a short time where, of course, Justin became the focus. As he always does. We went to dinner where we met his brother William, his sister Stachia, and William's girlfriend Melissa. Oh and Kensey and Timmy. A-DOR-A-BLE!!! From then on, the whole weekend was just like he had always been right there with them. They all (as well as Justin and I) immediately just CLICKED!!!!
Everyone was so friendly and hospitable. Saturday, we had dinner at Willy and Melissa's where we ate a ridiculous amount of food. It was DELICIOUS!! Thank you to Sammy and Jane as well for the yummy dishes. I will have to diet before my next visit. :)
Justin fished all weekend and bless his heart, he couldn't catch a thing. But he sure had fun with his Daddy, Papa, and Uncle Willy while he tried. He was so jacked up from excitement that the child talked all the way home last night.
I am just beaming from ear to ear and overwhelmed with emotion and excitement. Those are really the only words I know to use. It's a feeling you just can't describe.
I will say one last thing, I no longer have questions about where James gets some of his habits and qualities (which I love). They came from his dad. They are carbon copies. Both strong willed men with deep values and strong pride.
Didn't know it was possible for me to love him anymore than I did.
Sometimes, things can surprise you that way.
Check back soon for more updates.
On Friday, September 16th, I watched my husband become complete. His empty hole was now full. So full that it has overflowed. :) There was a heart felt embrace (no tears cause their men LOL). Then we sat and visited for a short time where, of course, Justin became the focus. As he always does. We went to dinner where we met his brother William, his sister Stachia, and William's girlfriend Melissa. Oh and Kensey and Timmy. A-DOR-A-BLE!!! From then on, the whole weekend was just like he had always been right there with them. They all (as well as Justin and I) immediately just CLICKED!!!!
Everyone was so friendly and hospitable. Saturday, we had dinner at Willy and Melissa's where we ate a ridiculous amount of food. It was DELICIOUS!! Thank you to Sammy and Jane as well for the yummy dishes. I will have to diet before my next visit. :)
Justin fished all weekend and bless his heart, he couldn't catch a thing. But he sure had fun with his Daddy, Papa, and Uncle Willy while he tried. He was so jacked up from excitement that the child talked all the way home last night.
I am just beaming from ear to ear and overwhelmed with emotion and excitement. Those are really the only words I know to use. It's a feeling you just can't describe.
I will say one last thing, I no longer have questions about where James gets some of his habits and qualities (which I love). They came from his dad. They are carbon copies. Both strong willed men with deep values and strong pride.
Didn't know it was possible for me to love him anymore than I did.
Sometimes, things can surprise you that way.
Check back soon for more updates.
James, Justin, and Bill at Hawks Nest Overlook September 17th, 2011
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Summer Update
Well, the great migration from Granite Street to South End is now half way done. Now to mosey across the hall once construction is done and WZ Charlotte will officially be at our new location.
Yesterday was a great new beginning. Hopefully, I will do okay at this sales thing.
Friday evening, Justin lost his first tooth. He pulled it all by himself. And then Saturday, he just decided to swim with no swimmies.....all the way across the pool. Isn't it funny how some days, they just grow up?? Our long awaited summer vacation is right around the corner. We will be invading Cherry Grove for a week not too long from now. It is one of my most favorite places ever!!!
There are some difficult things going on right now for James and I so we just ask everyone to continue to pray for us. We both know that together we can come out on top of this. And regardless of where we end up, we will be together and that is all that matters.
So my baby will be in 1st grade in a few weeks. It's hard to believe that 7 years ago, I had just found out that he was going to be a boy. It literally blows my mind how much they change and grow every day. The other day I told him I was sad that he was losing a tooth because that meant he was growing up. He said "Mom, you know, time passes and I have to get bigger. The only way to stop it is to stop feeding me." I should write a book entitled "Classic Lines from a 6 year old" because they just get better every day.
Welp, there are boxes and pallets to unpack, so I guess I better get on that. Hope everyone has a great rest of the week. And as always, you're all on my prayer list for anything that the world throws your way. Always trust him with EVERYTHING!!! He is the only way.
Love, Shanna
Yesterday was a great new beginning. Hopefully, I will do okay at this sales thing.
Friday evening, Justin lost his first tooth. He pulled it all by himself. And then Saturday, he just decided to swim with no swimmies.....all the way across the pool. Isn't it funny how some days, they just grow up?? Our long awaited summer vacation is right around the corner. We will be invading Cherry Grove for a week not too long from now. It is one of my most favorite places ever!!!
There are some difficult things going on right now for James and I so we just ask everyone to continue to pray for us. We both know that together we can come out on top of this. And regardless of where we end up, we will be together and that is all that matters.
So my baby will be in 1st grade in a few weeks. It's hard to believe that 7 years ago, I had just found out that he was going to be a boy. It literally blows my mind how much they change and grow every day. The other day I told him I was sad that he was losing a tooth because that meant he was growing up. He said "Mom, you know, time passes and I have to get bigger. The only way to stop it is to stop feeding me." I should write a book entitled "Classic Lines from a 6 year old" because they just get better every day.
Welp, there are boxes and pallets to unpack, so I guess I better get on that. Hope everyone has a great rest of the week. And as always, you're all on my prayer list for anything that the world throws your way. Always trust him with EVERYTHING!!! He is the only way.
Love, Shanna
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Things to come.......
Well the last 3 months of our lives have been pretty crazy at the Hash house.
Found out in March that my office was closing and I wouldn't be working anymore. But thanks to some commitment and great ideas from some very special people, I will be staying with Walker Zanger. We will be downsizing the office I'm in and moving to a smaller space in the South End. For those of you that don't live in Charlotte, South End is pretty much the design district.
So that's very good news for me. Justin was a little bummed that he and mom wouldn't be spending the summer together, but he'll be doing lots of fun stuff with daycare/Summer camp, so he'll be fine.
James has been going full force since the first of May. The temperatures here have kept him extremely busy. We've started some new projects around the house and had a new roof put on last week which was WELL deserved and much needed.
Went to the hospital last night to welcome Baby Colt. What a handsome little fella and such a blessing.
Traveled to Louisville over Memorial Day weekend to watch my cousin get married. Beautiful wedding and LOVED seeing family. Last weekend, we stayed by the house and just relaxed and spent the first of many days in the pool with our amazing friends.
I know I say it often, but we seriously have the best friends that anyone could ask for. If you have people in your life that aren't related by blood but are still your family, make sure you tell them how important they are to you. This weekend is another busy one. James' Birthday tomorrow, our 10 year anniversary on the 16th, camping at Wilson Creek (with other people for once) on the 25th, Charleston with Shannon and Hayden for the Fourth of July to stay with her precious Meemaw and Papa Donald. :) I love our summers. If they weren't crazy busy and packed full of stuff with our friends, it would stink. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Tomorrow is the last day of school for Justin and then he will be a 1st grader!!!! WHAT?!?!?! I have a first grader?!?!? No way. This year has been rougher than I ever imagined it would be. But Justin is such a good kid and such a good student and we couldn't be more proud of him.
Well I will try and catch up again in a week or so. Hope everyone is having a great summer so far and I hope that your blessings are as many as ours.
Found out in March that my office was closing and I wouldn't be working anymore. But thanks to some commitment and great ideas from some very special people, I will be staying with Walker Zanger. We will be downsizing the office I'm in and moving to a smaller space in the South End. For those of you that don't live in Charlotte, South End is pretty much the design district.
So that's very good news for me. Justin was a little bummed that he and mom wouldn't be spending the summer together, but he'll be doing lots of fun stuff with daycare/Summer camp, so he'll be fine.
James has been going full force since the first of May. The temperatures here have kept him extremely busy. We've started some new projects around the house and had a new roof put on last week which was WELL deserved and much needed.
Went to the hospital last night to welcome Baby Colt. What a handsome little fella and such a blessing.
Traveled to Louisville over Memorial Day weekend to watch my cousin get married. Beautiful wedding and LOVED seeing family. Last weekend, we stayed by the house and just relaxed and spent the first of many days in the pool with our amazing friends.
I know I say it often, but we seriously have the best friends that anyone could ask for. If you have people in your life that aren't related by blood but are still your family, make sure you tell them how important they are to you. This weekend is another busy one. James' Birthday tomorrow, our 10 year anniversary on the 16th, camping at Wilson Creek (with other people for once) on the 25th, Charleston with Shannon and Hayden for the Fourth of July to stay with her precious Meemaw and Papa Donald. :) I love our summers. If they weren't crazy busy and packed full of stuff with our friends, it would stink. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Tomorrow is the last day of school for Justin and then he will be a 1st grader!!!! WHAT?!?!?! I have a first grader?!?!? No way. This year has been rougher than I ever imagined it would be. But Justin is such a good kid and such a good student and we couldn't be more proud of him.
Well I will try and catch up again in a week or so. Hope everyone is having a great summer so far and I hope that your blessings are as many as ours.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Playing Catch up!!
It seems that the life of a mother is never really caught up, but blogging definitely has to take a back seat to all the other stuff.
Over the past few weeks, some really amazing things have happened. First of all, James went back to work for his employer that he left last May. He left then for a better opportunity and more money of course. So they hired him back at more money and with a better opportunity. Overall, so far, we are pleased. Don't tell him I said it, but thankfully, this means that the Volkswagon will be on hold, atleast for a little while.
Spent last week in the hospital for a little spat with my pancreas. She's all good now, but a little temporamental. Oh and had a great birthday dinner with the best friends a girl could EVER possibly ask for. Got a great book and a very special card from my dearest friend. She's so very special to me. I hope she knows that I love her.
There are some things in the works for my situation at work, but nothing official yet, so stay tuned for more updates. 
We had a great time in Knoxville last Friday watching Katie graduate. So proud. Had a great day in Pigeon Forge with my little family but had to escape cause there was a Dolly Parton parade. Do you KNOW what a mention of a Dolly parade can do to a town like Pigeon Forge?!?!?! Do the words SHUT DOWN mean anything to you??? It was nuts. The parade was at 6 PM and at noon, there were people lined down the road in their lawn chairs. NUTS!!! Next weekend will mark our first family camping trip for the summer of 2011. VERY excited to get the summer started. And only 98 days until our beach trip.
To wrap up today, all I can be is thankful!!!! Thankful for a beautiful son and a wonderful husband. Parents and brothers and sisters who love us both. Friends who love us like brothers and sisters. 2 months ago, James and I both thought that we were about to have to buckle down and make some serious, serious changes in the way we lived because of our work situations.
But thanks to God and some much answered prayers (and some great people saying prayers) we are going to come out on top. What an amazing feeling to know that he holds you right in the palm of his hand. Occasionally, you look over the side to see what trouble you can get into, but he always balances you RIGHT where you need to.
Thank you Lord for everything. The things you give to us are too numerous to list.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Trying to keep up!!
I realized last night, as I was driving home from Mom to Mom Bible Study with my favorite ladies, that I hadn't blogged in a while. So I've decided to catch everyone up.
Still no new job. I'm actively looking but I'm either overpaid, or under educated. So right now, the outcome looks grim, but I know that my God would never have me work this hard at something not to reward me handsomely in the end. So I know there has to be something better out there for me.
On Monday 4-4-11, I became an aunt for the first time to Joseph Samuel Hash. He's a precious baby boy and I can't wait to watch him grow up and enjoy everything life has to offer. Oh and to spoil him and send him home to his parents. :)
Justin can officially tie his own shoes now. To some, this may seem small, but to a 6 year old, it is his finest accomplishment. He's very smart and is doing very well in school. He's just like his mommy. Always first done with the neatest work. As long as he can stay this way, he'll be good.
Today it is only 128 days until vacation. I'm anxious of course as I am every year, to spend a week with our best friends.
And in 3 weeks, we will be traveling to Knoxville to watch Katie graduate from Johnson Bible College. I know the world looks scary to you now kiddo, but it's such a great place. And you have an amazing purpose. It can only get better from here.
Had an amazing shower for Jessica, Frosty, Abby, and baby Colt last Saturday. What a precious little family. Abby is a very lucky little girl to have her mom and dad.
I think that's it for now.
So I'm going to close with a prayer for all my friends and people I love dearly...
I pray today, that the Lord gives you peace. If there is anything in your heart or in your life that you are uneasy about, I pray that he just gives you peace and settles you.
You have an awesome amazing plan for my life and my family and I just pray that you don't let us falter while we get there. Just hold us in the palm of your hand and raise us to soar with the eagles.
Thank you Lord for loving us unconditionally and giving the ultimate sacrifice so that we can walk through the world every day. Amen.
Still no new job. I'm actively looking but I'm either overpaid, or under educated. So right now, the outcome looks grim, but I know that my God would never have me work this hard at something not to reward me handsomely in the end. So I know there has to be something better out there for me.
On Monday 4-4-11, I became an aunt for the first time to Joseph Samuel Hash. He's a precious baby boy and I can't wait to watch him grow up and enjoy everything life has to offer. Oh and to spoil him and send him home to his parents. :)
Today it is only 128 days until vacation. I'm anxious of course as I am every year, to spend a week with our best friends.
And in 3 weeks, we will be traveling to Knoxville to watch Katie graduate from Johnson Bible College. I know the world looks scary to you now kiddo, but it's such a great place. And you have an amazing purpose. It can only get better from here.
Had an amazing shower for Jessica, Frosty, Abby, and baby Colt last Saturday. What a precious little family. Abby is a very lucky little girl to have her mom and dad.
I think that's it for now.
So I'm going to close with a prayer for all my friends and people I love dearly...
I pray today, that the Lord gives you peace. If there is anything in your heart or in your life that you are uneasy about, I pray that he just gives you peace and settles you.
You have an awesome amazing plan for my life and my family and I just pray that you don't let us falter while we get there. Just hold us in the palm of your hand and raise us to soar with the eagles.
Thank you Lord for loving us unconditionally and giving the ultimate sacrifice so that we can walk through the world every day. Amen.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Spring....I think
Not sure what happened this weekend, but I think Mother Nature went on spring break. Well for those of you that don't know, as of July (or possibly earlier) I will no longer be employed. It's going to be a LONG summer at my house. 2 people unemployed and a schooler home on break. Start praying for me now cause I will probably need it.
I've been putting in applications and resumes everywhere. Those of you that know me well, know that I love Walker Zanger and it breaks my heart for it to end this way. But it's a sign of the times and it's just business.
So keep your eyes peeled if you see anything that might fit me well. This has been a really tough time for me. I am a person who thrives on stability. Some people can jump from job to job and place to place and be okay. I'm not one of those people.
So keep my family in your prayers as we learn how to cope with the big changes happening for us. Hopefully, if I don't find something right away, this will give me a chance to get some projects finished around the house and just spend time with my 2 favorite guys. We plan on doing some camping and just enjoying each other.
This has always been my favorite scripture, but it seems even more fitting nowadays.
Jeremiah 29:11-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.
So I hope everyone has a blessed week and stays safe and I pray that the job hunt will turn around with a positive outcome. I also pray for my friend Jessica and her fiance Chris and their daughter Abby and that their next child who needs to stay put can stay put for atleast another month until it's his time.
I pray that Kelly has a smooth and safe labor and that my little nephew Sam is happy and healthy. I pray that you keep all of the people I love safe and keep them out of harms way. Let them see you through me.
I've been putting in applications and resumes everywhere. Those of you that know me well, know that I love Walker Zanger and it breaks my heart for it to end this way. But it's a sign of the times and it's just business.
So keep your eyes peeled if you see anything that might fit me well. This has been a really tough time for me. I am a person who thrives on stability. Some people can jump from job to job and place to place and be okay. I'm not one of those people.
So keep my family in your prayers as we learn how to cope with the big changes happening for us. Hopefully, if I don't find something right away, this will give me a chance to get some projects finished around the house and just spend time with my 2 favorite guys. We plan on doing some camping and just enjoying each other.
This has always been my favorite scripture, but it seems even more fitting nowadays.
Jeremiah 29:11-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.
So I hope everyone has a blessed week and stays safe and I pray that the job hunt will turn around with a positive outcome. I also pray for my friend Jessica and her fiance Chris and their daughter Abby and that their next child who needs to stay put can stay put for atleast another month until it's his time.
I pray that Kelly has a smooth and safe labor and that my little nephew Sam is happy and healthy. I pray that you keep all of the people I love safe and keep them out of harms way. Let them see you through me.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
New Beginnings
Welp, today could be the first day of the rest of my life. That's the way I have to look at it.
I'm still trying to be discreet about things that are happening in certain aspects of my life now. But those of you that are my closest, dearest friends already know. Thank you all for being my support system and loving me through this and praying me through this. Keep praying because I will need an official new beginning very soon. And thank you to my mother-in-law for reminding me of this scripture:
Hebrew 12:11
"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."
So I will take the discipline now and will reap the fruits of righteousness when we come out of this on the other end, smiling.
James, Justin and I are still anxiously awaiting the arrival of Baby Sam. It feels so weird to say I will be an aunt. But I guess I'm at that age now. :( I guess Katie felt kind of weird being an aunt at 16, so I can do it at 30. We are also VERY excited about our May trip to Knoxville for the big graduation!!!!!! VERY EXCITED!!!!
The past few weeks, I've been watching some old home movies of my husbands family and have learned a few things.
1. Katie is most sleepy when she's eating. So if she doses off, just move her soup. Oh and she was NEVER meant to be a dancer, cause she's just not that interested in it. She would much rather make music for people to dance to. I love that about her.
2. My husband can walk on stilts. Who else can say their husband can do that???? Yeah that's what I thought. HAHA.
3. Oh and Joey is always wanting more. From a very young age til now, he always wants more. This is definitely a good quality. Always strive for better. Never settle.
I guess I'm at a point in my life and in my relationship with God where I just don't worry anymore. He carries all my stress and worry for me. I will come out on the other end of this in a better place. My whole family will. We will be better people and better Christians because of the things that happen for us and to us.
I hope that everyone in our life knows how precious they are too us. Whether you are a relative or our selected extended family of friends, we love each and every one of you dearly.
Have a blessed day and an amazing weekend everyone!!!!
I'm still trying to be discreet about things that are happening in certain aspects of my life now. But those of you that are my closest, dearest friends already know. Thank you all for being my support system and loving me through this and praying me through this. Keep praying because I will need an official new beginning very soon. And thank you to my mother-in-law for reminding me of this scripture:
Hebrew 12:11
"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."
So I will take the discipline now and will reap the fruits of righteousness when we come out of this on the other end, smiling.
James, Justin and I are still anxiously awaiting the arrival of Baby Sam. It feels so weird to say I will be an aunt. But I guess I'm at that age now. :( I guess Katie felt kind of weird being an aunt at 16, so I can do it at 30. We are also VERY excited about our May trip to Knoxville for the big graduation!!!!!! VERY EXCITED!!!!
The past few weeks, I've been watching some old home movies of my husbands family and have learned a few things.
1. Katie is most sleepy when she's eating. So if she doses off, just move her soup. Oh and she was NEVER meant to be a dancer, cause she's just not that interested in it. She would much rather make music for people to dance to. I love that about her.
2. My husband can walk on stilts. Who else can say their husband can do that???? Yeah that's what I thought. HAHA.
3. Oh and Joey is always wanting more. From a very young age til now, he always wants more. This is definitely a good quality. Always strive for better. Never settle.
I guess I'm at a point in my life and in my relationship with God where I just don't worry anymore. He carries all my stress and worry for me. I will come out on the other end of this in a better place. My whole family will. We will be better people and better Christians because of the things that happen for us and to us.
I hope that everyone in our life knows how precious they are too us. Whether you are a relative or our selected extended family of friends, we love each and every one of you dearly.
Have a blessed day and an amazing weekend everyone!!!!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
He took it alright!
Happy March 1st everyone!!! I believe Phil may have been right. We may just be done with winter for the year. But in August, when it's 100 degrees and hasn't rained in 3 months, we'll be asking for cooler temperatures. It's a vicious cycle really.
I realized this morning as I pulled away from the school that we have almost made it through kindergarten and both Justin and I are still alive. Which is no small miracle. That child can certainly test my patience. But when he's good, he's so very good. And it makes all of the craziness go away.
This is an exciting time of year for us when we plan our annual vacation and anything else we can squeeze into the summer.
I really hope this year brings lots of trips to Wilson Creek for camping. You never know .
Even though my mind is going a thousand miles a minutes, I'm just sitting here relishing in all of the blessings. So here I go again. I give it all to you Lord. Take it. Make it what it's supposed to be in your will. And please give me the knowledge to know the difference.
Phil 4:7 " And the peace of God that transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
I pray today that you take all of the burden and all of the anxiety and make it what is should be. I pray that you keep my family and my friends safe and healthy and that you continue to bless us as you see fit. Thank you Lord for everything.....even and especially the hard times.
I realized this morning as I pulled away from the school that we have almost made it through kindergarten and both Justin and I are still alive. Which is no small miracle. That child can certainly test my patience. But when he's good, he's so very good. And it makes all of the craziness go away.
This is an exciting time of year for us when we plan our annual vacation and anything else we can squeeze into the summer.
I really hope this year brings lots of trips to Wilson Creek for camping. You never know .
Even though my mind is going a thousand miles a minutes, I'm just sitting here relishing in all of the blessings. So here I go again. I give it all to you Lord. Take it. Make it what it's supposed to be in your will. And please give me the knowledge to know the difference.
Phil 4:7 " And the peace of God that transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
I pray today that you take all of the burden and all of the anxiety and make it what is should be. I pray that you keep my family and my friends safe and healthy and that you continue to bless us as you see fit. Thank you Lord for everything.....even and especially the hard times.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Take it!!!!
My heart is SO heavy today. I'm carrying every little thing around with me. Every word, every look, it's all weighing on me right now. I am doing everything possible to try and be a better person, mother, wife, Christian, a better everything. Every time I feel like I'm looking upward, something has ahold of my shoe strings pulling me back down.
Isaiah 40:31 "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint."
I want to be able to be strong enough to wait on the Lord and his will and soar like eagles and never stumble.
I'm hear just waiting on his direction. I'm making a resolution to give it ALL to him today and from now on. I will no longer be bothered with things that don't affect me and my relationship with Him.
I pray that he helps me to surround myself with people who are healthy for my faith and my relationship with God. And that he uses me to give courage to those that need strength and prayer. Help me to be the friend, wife, mother, Christian that I need to be.
Isaiah 40:31 "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint."
I want to be able to be strong enough to wait on the Lord and his will and soar like eagles and never stumble.
I'm hear just waiting on his direction. I'm making a resolution to give it ALL to him today and from now on. I will no longer be bothered with things that don't affect me and my relationship with Him.
I pray that he helps me to surround myself with people who are healthy for my faith and my relationship with God. And that he uses me to give courage to those that need strength and prayer. Help me to be the friend, wife, mother, Christian that I need to be.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Warmth
I don't really have anything to post today, but I did find this new cool summer background. It made me want to be on the beach with my toes in the sand spending time with my friends and family. I know everyone knows this, but I can not WAIT to have summer cook outs and let the kids just get dirty and rinse them off in the sprinkler or the pool. I love to watch my little guy play outside with his dad and make bows and arrows out of a stick and a rope. That's how simple life should be.
Hope everyone has a great day!
Hope everyone has a great day!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Love is in the air.
WOW!!!! Spring has sprung...hopefully. It was a flip flop wearing kind of weekend. Still needed long sleeves, but the toes were definitely OUT!!!!! Hallelujah. Not sure I could handle one more stuffy weekend inside. Bought paint this weekend for the hallway and kitchen. I know, you can't believe it right! For those of you that so dearly love my sheet rock walls, they will soon have paint. :)
We have been so fortunate all winter to be living healthy lives with no sickness. Of course, spring will change all that when the dreaded allergies strike my house. But allergies, I can deal with.
11 years ago today, my husband asked me to be his wife. Never once have I ever doubted my love for him. He's a pretty amazing person. He gives with his whole self. He's so tough on the outside, but definitely soft and lovey on the inside. He's a great dad and a great husband. I couldn't ask for more. I am truly blessed and lucky that God gave me him.
Thank you Lord today, for everything that you give to us but especially the love you give from yourself and others. We are definitely not worthy of your affection, yet you give it always, unconditionally.
Your love stands in the shadow of no other and can overcome anything. Thank you for humbling my heart and thank you for giving me the strength to get through the past week.
Thank you for Spring and for new life and new beginnings. You're awesome. We love you!!
We have been so fortunate all winter to be living healthy lives with no sickness. Of course, spring will change all that when the dreaded allergies strike my house. But allergies, I can deal with.
11 years ago today, my husband asked me to be his wife. Never once have I ever doubted my love for him. He's a pretty amazing person. He gives with his whole self. He's so tough on the outside, but definitely soft and lovey on the inside. He's a great dad and a great husband. I couldn't ask for more. I am truly blessed and lucky that God gave me him.
Thank you Lord today, for everything that you give to us but especially the love you give from yourself and others. We are definitely not worthy of your affection, yet you give it always, unconditionally.
Your love stands in the shadow of no other and can overcome anything. Thank you for humbling my heart and thank you for giving me the strength to get through the past week.
Thank you for Spring and for new life and new beginnings. You're awesome. We love you!!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Attitude Adjustment
Lately, I feel like I am absolutely no fun to be around because I have this stinky attitude about everything. I feel like I'm sour about work, about home, and everything in between. I need a serious attitude adjustment and there's no one that can do it except God, with my cooperation of course.
Things that were said and happened earlier in the week have me in a really nasty place. I am resentful and bitter about a lot of different things right now. I want to let go and enjoy my life just the way it is, no matter what anyone else thinks.
1 Peter 3:8 says: "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind."
And I realized, Hmm. It's that easy. Have a tender heart. Here I am walking around all bitter because other people don't do what they should and don't treat me the way I deserve and I have to STOP and un-harden my heart. There's definitely not room in my heart for Christ and all of my bitter feelings as well.
So I'm praying today Lord that you take any hurt feelings I have. Heel them and help me forgive. Take any of the bitterness and judgemental feelings and wash them away. Give me a clean slate and make me a blank page for you. No matter how tough I seem, I am only your child and can not do it alone.
Things that were said and happened earlier in the week have me in a really nasty place. I am resentful and bitter about a lot of different things right now. I want to let go and enjoy my life just the way it is, no matter what anyone else thinks.
1 Peter 3:8 says: "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind."
And I realized, Hmm. It's that easy. Have a tender heart. Here I am walking around all bitter because other people don't do what they should and don't treat me the way I deserve and I have to STOP and un-harden my heart. There's definitely not room in my heart for Christ and all of my bitter feelings as well.
So I'm praying today Lord that you take any hurt feelings I have. Heel them and help me forgive. Take any of the bitterness and judgemental feelings and wash them away. Give me a clean slate and make me a blank page for you. No matter how tough I seem, I am only your child and can not do it alone.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Agape Love
Yesterday was quite possibly the worst day I have had in a long time. Someone I thought cared about me said some really hurtful things. I know I may not be the prettiest person in our family and I'm sure not the skinniest. But I deserve to be loved and respected whether I'm a size 6 or 16. I can already see the disgust in your face when you look at me but the things that were said yesterday just re-affirmed what you think.
To go one step further and say that we live like pigs and are unclean people. We may not be perfect, but you know what, that's okay. We have people that love us for who we are and don't judge us for what we have and how we keep it. I have never been so hurt and insulted in my life.
But then I thought, wait, I don't really need your acceptance. I have a heavenly father who loves me with unconditional love, agape love. And as long as I live my life to his glory and to serve him, nothing that anyone thinks matters. He is the one and only one who will ever judge me and it matter.
So I only scrub my toilet once a week. And I may only vaccum once a week too. I'm not perfect, nor did I ever claim to be.
So today Lord, I pray that you give me the wisdom to forgive and move on from these things and you give me the strength to not judge others. Because being judged makes you feel the lowest of low. I pray that you will keep your blessings on my family and my house as you always do and I pray that you will continue to provide for us as you see fit.
To go one step further and say that we live like pigs and are unclean people. We may not be perfect, but you know what, that's okay. We have people that love us for who we are and don't judge us for what we have and how we keep it. I have never been so hurt and insulted in my life.
But then I thought, wait, I don't really need your acceptance. I have a heavenly father who loves me with unconditional love, agape love. And as long as I live my life to his glory and to serve him, nothing that anyone thinks matters. He is the one and only one who will ever judge me and it matter.
So I only scrub my toilet once a week. And I may only vaccum once a week too. I'm not perfect, nor did I ever claim to be.
So today Lord, I pray that you give me the wisdom to forgive and move on from these things and you give me the strength to not judge others. Because being judged makes you feel the lowest of low. I pray that you will keep your blessings on my family and my house as you always do and I pray that you will continue to provide for us as you see fit.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Thankful!!!
Yesterday was a great day!!! Unemployment FINALLY sent us some money so we are on the up swing folks. Looking forward to seeing my family this weekend and also meeting baby Alexander for the first time. We have some big milestones coming in the next few months.
James and I will be becoming an aunt and uncle for the first time. Katie will be graduating from college in May. Great things are happening for us right now. And I couldn't love my husband more. I say that each day, but each day, I do. I am so thankful that God gave me the eyes to see what was right in front of me.
I know that he is having a rough time not working and feeling like that's what he's supposed to be doing, but as long as he loves me and Justin and no one else comes before us, then that's all I need. I'd work 100 hours a week if I had to.
In the end, when we retire and our kids put us in nursing homes, the other people that live there with us won't care if we drove a lexus or a ford in our 20's and 30's. And they definitely won't care how many bedrooms our house had and how big our boat was. And lastly, they won't be asking how much money you made and how high up in power you were.
All that will matter is that you were loved and you served God with your whole self. Take a few minutes and realize that you only have what you have because of God. He is the only one that can give and he is the only one that can take it away. Don't be distracted by the flashy things of the world. They won't do you any good when it really counts.
Have a great weekend everyone and safe travels.
James and I will be becoming an aunt and uncle for the first time. Katie will be graduating from college in May. Great things are happening for us right now. And I couldn't love my husband more. I say that each day, but each day, I do. I am so thankful that God gave me the eyes to see what was right in front of me.
I know that he is having a rough time not working and feeling like that's what he's supposed to be doing, but as long as he loves me and Justin and no one else comes before us, then that's all I need. I'd work 100 hours a week if I had to.
In the end, when we retire and our kids put us in nursing homes, the other people that live there with us won't care if we drove a lexus or a ford in our 20's and 30's. And they definitely won't care how many bedrooms our house had and how big our boat was. And lastly, they won't be asking how much money you made and how high up in power you were.
All that will matter is that you were loved and you served God with your whole self. Take a few minutes and realize that you only have what you have because of God. He is the only one that can give and he is the only one that can take it away. Don't be distracted by the flashy things of the world. They won't do you any good when it really counts.
Have a great weekend everyone and safe travels.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Hope is diminishing
Happy Thursday all,
Well the week started off with a shock. James did get to work on Monday and Tuesday of this week. Much to our dismay, it was short lived. We did receive word from the unemployment office that his claim had not been denied. So I guess that's better than what it could have said.
Oddly enough, Bible study last night was about finding your worth and purpose as according to God. I know that most of us struggle with our worth on a daily basis but especially in today's time when the unemployment rate is at an all time high and people are losing things that they've worked hard for left and right.
Colossian 3:2 says: Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
This scripture helps me assign my worth. You must first remove all monetary value from your mind. To God, you are NEVER a dollar sign, or a new car, or a new house.
Your hands are his hands and your feet are his feet. He made you from nothing!! This is all I need to realize my worth. I am worth the world to him. He saw so much potential and worth in each of us to give his son and forgive everything we do to him every day.
That makes me feel like something WAY greater than a million bucks. I hope it does you as well.
Many plans are in a man's mind, but it is the Lord's purpose for him that will stand. Proverbs 19: 21
Always remember, if you're looking for your purpose here on earth and it's becoming difficult, he's always right there. All it takes it to be humble and say to him, I give it ALL to you Lord. Every bit of me. Show me my purpose.
Well the week started off with a shock. James did get to work on Monday and Tuesday of this week. Much to our dismay, it was short lived. We did receive word from the unemployment office that his claim had not been denied. So I guess that's better than what it could have said.
Oddly enough, Bible study last night was about finding your worth and purpose as according to God. I know that most of us struggle with our worth on a daily basis but especially in today's time when the unemployment rate is at an all time high and people are losing things that they've worked hard for left and right.
Colossian 3:2 says: Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
This scripture helps me assign my worth. You must first remove all monetary value from your mind. To God, you are NEVER a dollar sign, or a new car, or a new house.
Your hands are his hands and your feet are his feet. He made you from nothing!! This is all I need to realize my worth. I am worth the world to him. He saw so much potential and worth in each of us to give his son and forgive everything we do to him every day.
That makes me feel like something WAY greater than a million bucks. I hope it does you as well.
Many plans are in a man's mind, but it is the Lord's purpose for him that will stand. Proverbs 19: 21
Always remember, if you're looking for your purpose here on earth and it's becoming difficult, he's always right there. All it takes it to be humble and say to him, I give it ALL to you Lord. Every bit of me. Show me my purpose.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Monday, January 31, 2011
We have hope.
So those of you that don't know, James hasn't worked since December 20th, 2010. He's not officially been laid off, just not working, and thus, not getting paid. It's been a HARD month for us. But we have Amazing family and friends who have helped us through and prayed diligently for us to some how get through this. Today, when calling in to his office, instead of being told he was on stand-by, he was told to come into the office to meet his boss. That they were going to Winston-Salem. Now mind, you this may very well mean that he is driving to Winston-Salem to give his company vehicle to a new employee. That is not out of the question. Especially with these people. They are spiteful enough to do that. But atleast then, we would know where we stand. We wouldn't sit in wonder everyday, not knowing what the next step is.
In the past month, I've asked myself, how do they sleep at night. How do you honestly live with yourself knowing that you are taking food right out of someones mouth. That you might possibly be taking the roof from over their head?!?!?! HOW??!?!
I have resigned myself to the fact that not everyone has a conscience and not everyone feels convicted and guilty when they do something wrong. There truly is evil in this world. But my God is Greater than ALL of that. ALL OF IT!!!! If you ever doubt that God is beside you, read my favorite scripture, Jeremiah 29:11 where it says:
In the past month, I've asked myself, how do they sleep at night. How do you honestly live with yourself knowing that you are taking food right out of someones mouth. That you might possibly be taking the roof from over their head?!?!?! HOW??!?!
I have resigned myself to the fact that not everyone has a conscience and not everyone feels convicted and guilty when they do something wrong. There truly is evil in this world. But my God is Greater than ALL of that. ALL OF IT!!!! If you ever doubt that God is beside you, read my favorite scripture, Jeremiah 29:11 where it says:
11 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.
I am not super woman and I can not do it all....that's right, I said it.
BUT I have hope and a future. What else could you possibly want??
Have a blessed day everyone!!!!!
<3 James, Shanna, and Justin
I am not super woman and I can not do it all....that's right, I said it.
BUT I have hope and a future. What else could you possibly want??
Have a blessed day everyone!!!!!
<3 James, Shanna, and Justin
Friday, January 28, 2011
Humbleness
Ephesians 4:31-32
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Have you ever been eaten up so much inside with anger over something someone did to you or said to you? I find that this is a common occurance for me. I have real issues letting go.
But I have to stop myself and think, does the other person care????? Most times, they don't. They've said what they said and forgotten about it and moved on with their life. Does that mean I should? Shouldn't they be eaten up with guilt just as must as I am with anger?
I'm trying Lord, to let go of most everything. I find that I want everyone to be selfless and care about other people as much as I do. I guess lucky for me, you didn't make everyone the same. So I'm going to do my best to forgive and keep all of the malice and harsh words from my mouth.
Do you have someone that you need to forgive? I'm sure what they did couldn't be nearly as bad as what we all do to God every day. WOW talk about getting your feelings hurt. Do you ever wonder how badly he hurts because of things you do? It's definitely something to ponder.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Have you ever been eaten up so much inside with anger over something someone did to you or said to you? I find that this is a common occurance for me. I have real issues letting go.
But I have to stop myself and think, does the other person care????? Most times, they don't. They've said what they said and forgotten about it and moved on with their life. Does that mean I should? Shouldn't they be eaten up with guilt just as must as I am with anger?
I'm trying Lord, to let go of most everything. I find that I want everyone to be selfless and care about other people as much as I do. I guess lucky for me, you didn't make everyone the same. So I'm going to do my best to forgive and keep all of the malice and harsh words from my mouth.
Do you have someone that you need to forgive? I'm sure what they did couldn't be nearly as bad as what we all do to God every day. WOW talk about getting your feelings hurt. Do you ever wonder how badly he hurts because of things you do? It's definitely something to ponder.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
First Ever Blog post
The first thing that anyone ever says to me when we meet...."Is your last name really Hash?!?!?!?" Like I would make it up. I actually had a doctor tell me last week that if I ever remarried, I should look for a man with the last name Brown. Yeah that's original doc. Keep your day job.
Alright, so this is my first time EVER blogging. I figured, why not. Everyone else is doing it. Wait, is that a good reason? For those of you that don't know, James and I have been married for what will be 10 years in June. It seems like these 10 years have FLOWN by. But they have been the most exciting and stressful 10 years of our lives. We have one little boy, Justin. He is 6 and is in Kindergarten this year. It was a rough start, but he has the hang of it now. He's way smarter than his mom or dad ever were, so we look for him to really go places in life. I just wanted to create this blog to keep up with day to day things (for those people who don't have Facebook.....I think there are people left who don't have Facebook).
I hope you enjoy watching us walk, sometimes stumble, down this road called life.
Alright, so this is my first time EVER blogging. I figured, why not. Everyone else is doing it. Wait, is that a good reason? For those of you that don't know, James and I have been married for what will be 10 years in June. It seems like these 10 years have FLOWN by. But they have been the most exciting and stressful 10 years of our lives. We have one little boy, Justin. He is 6 and is in Kindergarten this year. It was a rough start, but he has the hang of it now. He's way smarter than his mom or dad ever were, so we look for him to really go places in life. I just wanted to create this blog to keep up with day to day things (for those people who don't have Facebook.....I think there are people left who don't have Facebook).
I hope you enjoy watching us walk, sometimes stumble, down this road called life.
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