The Delp Family

A future in baseball??

2012-01-23T16:33:00.004-05:00

Some baseball fun over Christmas in Pennsylvania.

It was a close game, but I think it ended in a tie... :)

Just what am I hunting for...

2011-12-06T15:18:00.003-05:00

Do you ever feel like saying, Lord, haven't I learned enough?

So we have been looking for houses, i.e. house hunting, for a few months now. And I have to say, I thought it would be simpler, faster and more fun. :) Yet, like many things in our lives, there is more than meets the eye. And just like God, this process has been the breeding ground for lesson after lesson of trust, patience, contentment, wisdom and being Kingdom-minded.

I have probably visited about 50 houses. Granted, we knowingly have a low budget, even in this buyer-friendly market. But we are trying to be frugal and wise in our finances, having the house budget be ONE of the things we spend our money on, not THE thing we spend our money on. And with Ryan's salary changing to primarily commission, well, we were financially conservative before and are even more so now. So we want a house that has space, but that doesn't change our current finances too much. Living in Chicagoland makes it a bit tricky, but not impossible, right?

We firmly believe that a home is a place where ministry happens, which I think is our primary desire in wanting more space. We want to open our home/lives up to parties, playdates, Bible Studies, groups of people. We want to have a comfortable space that encourages authenticity and security, especially as Riley and Ava grow up. And we thought that all signs were pointing to that happening now because the market is at a place where you can get more house for the money. If we were living in Chicagoland a few years ago, we wouldn't even be shopping, so the fact that we are even looking at 50 houses is a blessing.

But it hasn't felt like a blessing lately. Admittedly, this has been a discouraging process. We either see house after house that would take too much time, work and money to fix up OR we see a house we like and it's sold before we can put in an offer. We have learned about ourselves and about our marriage and about our expectations. We have felt almost every emotion during these months. With those emotions comes questioning what God is doing and why He is allowing this process to take so long when we have thought that our motivation for wanting a house was God-honoring...

A couple days ago I read these verses that I think came straight from the Lord and I can't get them out of my head...

"My thoughts are not your thoughts; neither are your ways My ways. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways and thoughts higher than yours." - Isaiah 55:8-9

Sometimes, even without meaning to, I get sidetracked of thinking what I would think would be what God wants... I think how great it would be to have a story to tell about how we found our house or what we would do with the house or how we prayed and God answered so obviously... and how that would all glorify the Lord. And sometimes that truly is the case (like in our journey of moving to IL). BUT, sometimes it's not that way and God's purposes cannot be seen or felt or assumed. What do I do when that happens? Does my faith change because the certainty and the warm fuzzies are not present? If what I want doesn't happen, do I still choose to trust, even if everything around me may point to settling or giving up? When it doesn't make sense, do I sulk or do I choose to praise?

Maybe we haven't found a house yet because the house isn't ready for us or neighbors we live near now need an encouraging word or maybe God wants to work on our contentment a little more or maybe the reason is never to be known. But it doesn't (or shouldn't) matter. I have put my trust in the God who created the universe. I believe He is sovereign. I believe that He is for me and delights in me. And if the door has not opened for a house, then I need to continue waiting patiently. And as a friend said to me, focus on the heavenly home that Jesus is preparing for me, with many rooms. And when I focus on that, while my desire is to continue looking for houses, my attitude is more of a God-hunt than a house-hunt. I have so much to be thankful for, I have shelter and a warm home that I do not want to take for granted. I am not in a hurry. I want to enjoy life and the means to joy is not a house or anything material.

Lord-willing, we will eventually find a house. But in the mean time, I am being trained to trust my God and to rest in His plans for my life, even if I don't understand them or don't always like them. He is God. And I am His child. And I am commanded to "love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul and all your strength..." (Deut. 6:5), which includes my mind and everything in me, my life and my energy, my "muchness" (thank you Colin Smith) and possessions and what God gives me - or doesn't give me.

"... I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want..." - Phil. 4:11-12

You did what??

2011-11-16T15:45:00.010-05:00

I've long thought that a small nose ring looked cute and fun, and well, yes, cool. I've always thought it would be fun to do it, but mostly chickened out or worried what people would think if I did it.

That last reason has plagued me for years, not necessarily about the nose ring, per se, but in life in general. Caring what people think. Not wanting to be judged, misunderstood, disrespected, not liked. I've had ebbs and flows of this struggle, and surprisingly, it seems, for some reason, that it has been more on the forefront of my mind in the last year or so. It probably has to do with moving, it could be that I'm now in my mid-30's and a stay-at-home mom and maybe have less adult interaction, or it could simply be that I'm human and we seem to worry about these sorts of things.

I found lately, though, that my confidence in the Lord was being affected. My insecurities were more my focus than the truth that my God delights in me. My way of dealing with it was to try to control it better. To try harder to get over it. Pray about it, yes, but mostly talk myself out of it. And surprise, it wasn't working. When I do it that way, my insecurities grow. But when I do it God's way and focus on Him and depend on Him and learn of Him, my confidence grows. The peace that He gives, grows. When I trust in His delight and love for me, I can push aside those ugly thoughts of self-absorption, fear of man, and people-pleasing.

I've been learning much lately (always). And in talking to Ryan one night about all these lessons, I was saying how I wanted a physical reminder, an altar if you will, to point me back to Jesus in all things. And so the idea was born: my nose ring, for me, could be the altar I was looking for. So, after years of talking about it, I did it. I got my nose pierced.

I have pages upon pages in my journal of these lessons that will hopefully be life-changing lessons. But truthfully, I'm sure I'll struggle with one or two of them my entire lifetime. Sometimes I wonder if God allows those "thorns" so that we'll continually run back to Him. But these lessons are the reason I wanted my new covenant with the Lord to be physical. Just like I like to be reminded that I'm loved by Him, I look at the clock at 10:15 (my birthday - 10/15) and use that as my personal connection to the Lord, a reminder to check-in and a reminder that I am loved. It's amazing how many times I "happen" to look at the clock at exactly 10:15. Now some of the lessons are between me and my Lord, but just a few I wanted to share:

1. My confidence is in the Lord. No matter where I am or who I'm with, I can rest in who He made me to be. I can tend to be easily influenced by people around me. An interaction can make or break my mood. I long not to dwell on the negatives, but seek the Lord and give all those thoughts to Him instead of letting them circle in my head. As my dear friend, Katy, says, our thoughts can be like birds flying overhead. Some thoughts circle around, subtly land and rest in my mind, and before I know it, I'm stuck in a downward spiral of negative, sinful thoughts. I need to not let those thoughts build a nest in my mind, but I can shoo them away (throw out those negative, sinful thoughts). They may do several fly-by attempts, but I can do my part to not let them rest too long. We have to "fix our thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." (Phil. 4:8). I need not be pulled to and fro by people-pleasing, but instead, focus on pleasing the Lord. And I don't want to worry what others will think of me, if I'm living for Him, that is my concern. Some people may not like it, may not like me or my choices, but again, if I'm focusing on the Lord, what can mere man do to me?

2. That first lesson was tested right after said piercing of the nose. For some people didn't like it and didn't understand it and I felt judged and questioned. The first lesson was reaffirmed and another lesson evolved - this was a lesson I hadn't sought after, but God chose to soften my heart to the many people who must feel slighted or judged by the Church. It's hard to be different. It's hard to walk into a place (church) feeling like you stick out like a sore thumb. It's hard imagining that everyone who looks at you is displeased by you. This is not Truth. This is a lie of the Enemy who wants to destroy. But if we are not careful, we can all fall into this way of thinking. I want to make more of an effort to see those on the outside that may feel like they don't fit in or that people don't understand them. God loves all of us and does not show favoritism. And He did, indeed, make us unique and special, every one of us with worth and dignity. It's about grace - accepting it for myself and giving it to others.

3. Going along with that, I don't want to just fit the mold. I don't want my Christianity to become routine or just a lifestyle. This is not about rebelling against society, it's more about not giving into influence, feeling pressure to fit in and be like everyone else. Not just going through the motions of being a Christian because it's all I've ever known. But to declare myself different, because I am different. I'm not supposed to be like everyone else. We're all fearfully and wonderfully made, but I'm not necessarily like the person next to me. And I may have gifts or abilities that are different and God may use me differently so I shouldn't think I need to be like everyone else. I long to live out the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control) but not for my own benefit or my own recognition, but for His glory and purpose. I want less of me, more of Him. And sometimes, that means being a little different.

I have a scar on the left side of my nose from when I was a baby. So I was naturally thinking of drawing attention away from that by piercing the right side. Honestly and naively, I had never heard of meanings for the sides of the nose and maybe should have researched that a bit beforehand. BUT I think God used even that. As the man who pierced me was getting ready with the needle on my nose, he told me that in India, girls who were forced to be sex-slaves were forced to have the right side of their noses pierced as a means of branding. Um, wait, I should have learned of this earlier. But from that moment on, I began to worry. Am I going to send the wrong message with this piercing? I later googled meanings of nose-piercings (probably what I should have done first, but it definitely means more now) and found that the right side of the nose can mean "sacred." And for me, this has increased my desire to have this nose ring mean something. The process is sacred. Growing closer to the Lord is sacred. Shedding off sinful thoughts and habits is sacred. Especially because it is God who does that, not me.

So yes, I got my nose pierced. Not something that normally is characteristic of me. But I do want striving to be loving, gracious, accepting, authentic and God-pleasing to be characteristic of me. And now when I look in the mirror, may I be reminded of those desires to love God with all my heart, all my soul, all my mind and all my strength. And maybe it will be a little bit cute and fun and cool too...

On the move...

2011-06-28T16:46:00.003-04:00

Gretzinger's Grand Haven

2011-05-15T21:56:00.011-04:00

We went to my sister, Dana's house for Easter. We had fun with her family and felt like we were able to have some sweet, quality time with them.

Thanks for sharing the weekend with us - you have a beautiful life and ministry in Grand Haven and we are excited to watch God work in all 5 of you. We love you Dana, Jimmy, Jamie, Charlie and Scout.

Happy 1st Birthday Ava Grace!

2011-05-03T16:11:00.005-04:00

So we decided to wait until our Family Birthday Party/Dedication for Ava to experience her first taste of cake. But Birthdays are too special to go by without some kind of yummy treat... so Ava enjoyed her first donut today on her first birthday.

Ava - we love you so much. We thank God for you - for who He made you to be and all the light that shines in your eyes. You are so fun and full of spunk and we are thrilled to be a part of your life. We are committed to love and teach you all we know about the Creator of Life and Love. We pray you'll be open to His pursuit of you and that you will know the peace and love and joy that only God can give.

"[We] want you woven into a tapestry of love, in touch with everything there is to know of God. Then you will have minds confident and at rest, focused on Christ, God's great mystery. All the richest treasures of wisdom and knowledge are embedded in that mystery and nowhere else." - Colossians 2:2-3 (The Message)

2011-04-30T12:47:00.003-04:00

From the book JESUS CALLING by Sarah Young.

"When some basic need is lacking - time, energy, money - consider yourself blessed. Your very lack is an opportunity to latch onto Me in unashamed dependence. When you begin a day with inadequate resources, you must concentrate your efforts on the present moment. This is where you are meant to live - in the present; it is the place where I always await you. Awareness of your inadequacy is a rich blessing, training you to rely wholeheartedly on Me.

"The truth is that self-sufficiency is a myth perpetuated by pride and temporary success. Health and wealth can disappear instantly, as can life itself. Rejoice in your insufficiency, knowing that My Power is made perfect in weakness."

James 1:2-4: "Dear brothers and sisters, whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything."

2 Corinthians 12:9-10: "Each time he said, 'My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness'. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me. Since I know it is all for Christ's good, I am quite content with my weaknesses and with insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

In a stage of life when rest and time and money are hard to come by, these lessons and promises are what sustain me. And I feel like the Lord keeps bringing me back to this... trying to live above my circumstances, trusting and relying on Him for strength and peace and joy. It really is all about Him, and I keep having to be reminded of that for some reason. It's not about me. When He promises that He loves me and has a purpose for me and will provide for my needs and will work for my good and His glory, how can I not trust Him?

2011-04-12T11:31:00.004-04:00

"Oh, what joy for those whose rebellion is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of sin, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!

When I refused to confess my sin, I was weak and miserable, and I groaned all day long. Day and night Your hand of discipline was heavy on me. My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.

Finally, I confessed all my sins to You and stopped trying to hide them. I said to myself, 'I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.' And You forgave me! All my guilt is gone.

Therefore, let all the godly confess their rebellion to You while there is time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment. For You are my hiding place; You protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory.

The Lord says, 'I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.'

Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord.

So rejoice in the Lord and be glad, all you who obey Him! Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!"

- Psalm 32

How Big Is Ava?

2011-04-05T15:31:00.003-04:00

SO BIG!

Playing Paper Birds

2011-04-04T16:24:00.004-04:00

Today we were drawing ducks. Purple ones. Riley's duck is the top one. He wanted it to look like a Super Hero. His duck could totally take mine in a fight. :) And yes, our ducks have 4 feet. :) After we were done drawing, Riley invented a new game with our drawings. He called it Paper Birds. We ran around the house making our paper ducks fly. And I believe he came up with his first pun... He was running behind me and saying "Quack Quack Quack" and I said, Riley what are you doing back there?" He responded, "Just back here quacking up!" Hehe... Funny boy.

A new kind of play...

2011-02-25T18:37:00.004-05:00

One of Riley's favorite things for the last 1-2 years has been building towers (or Chicago skyscrapers) out of his blocks. However, now with a sweet little sister who is on the move, he has to be a little creative in how he does that.

One of those days...

2011-02-16T16:14:00.004-05:00

So as I said before, we're in a rough season. But oh how the Lord has been sustaining us.

Last night was probably the worst night ever for Ava, who seems to be in a constant state of teething (though this time I think she has a cold on top of that)... all that to say, our normally smiley baby is just not happy. She was up every hour last night and today has been a wreck, taking several 30 minute naps all day long. And yet, all through the night and today, I have a peace that makes no sense to me. I have a strange appreciation for my kids. I have joy at the little things. Not a coincidence.

Riley has been awesome - so helpful and patient. He tries to make her smile (which is actually very successful, even in the midst of her tears - wish I could get that on camera!). He has been content to play and color and is just acting like such a big boy.

Ava was asleep so I tried to hurry Riley into his quiet time to get some quiet time for myself. I sat down after Riley was settled and 10 minutes later, Ava woke up. Sigh. I got her up and brought her downstairs to sit with me while I did my devotions. Here's what was written in my book (JESUS CALLING by Sarah Young):

"Thank Me for the conditions that are requiring you to be still. Do not spoil these quiet hours by wishing them away, waiting impatiently to be active again. Some of the greatest works in My Kingdom have been done from sick beds and prison cells. Instead of resenting the limitations of a weakened body, search for My way in the midst of these circumstances. Limitations can be liberating when your strongest desire is living close to Me. Quietness and trust enhance your awareness of My Presence with you. Do not despise these simple ways of serving Me. Although you feel cut off from the activity of the world, your quiet trust makes a powerful statement in spiritual realms. My Strength and Power show themselves most effective in weakness."

And the verses that went along with that were:

"Be silent before the Lord, all humanity, for he is springing into action from his holy dwelling." - Zechariah 2:13

"The Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says, 'Only in returning to me and waiting for me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength..." - Isaiah 30:15

"Each time he said, 'My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness.' So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me." - 2 Corinthians 12:9

Coincidence? I think not. Thanks, Lord, for hearing me...

Yay Ava!

2011-02-12T16:26:00.002-05:00

Love for our kids...

2011-02-12T15:20:00.004-05:00

So we all love our kids. It's a strange emotion of bonding as if our hearts are physically attached to theirs. Nothing ever changes that.

But truth be told, we feel like we're in the midst of a tough season, given my and Ryan's personalities: these young ages pull at our desires for individual time, time as a couple, sleep, creativity, logical conversations with our kids, uninterrupted conversations as adults and well, sometimes, sanity. And add in winter, and well, you now have a roller coaster of emotions at the Delp house. :)

In recent struggles, I have let myself sink into the pit of discouragement too quickly. And sometimes those pits bring about questions about parenting, our kids' personalities and well, those blasted comparisions to other kids/parents.

And today, as if directly from the Lord, I felt such a renewed appreciation for my beautiful kids. They are different and similar. Riley is fearless while Ava is cautious. Riley loves trying new things while it takes Ava a few tries with uncertain glances at Mommy before she'll decide if she likes something. But they both have fun personalities. They speak their minds (yes, even little Ava lets us know quite loudly what she wants and when); they are unaware of others' opinions and so are just themselves; they love hard and play hard. And their challenges help us grow and see the Lord, ourselves and them with a godly perspective.

And so, in our journey of praying for increasing love and growing faith - and while we love our kids a lot, I'm praying more specifically that our love for Riley and Ava would increase more and more. I'm praying that we would continue to grow in choosing the Lord's perspective in the trying times and choose to see each hurdle as a teachable moment, not just for them but for us as parents as well.

Lord, in all things, make us more like you. Help us love like you love...

More from the eyes of a Riley-bear...

2011-02-04T15:14:00.008-05:00

Here's some more pictures from Riley's camera:

These first few are from when Memom and Pop were visiting in January. A little trip to Home Depot was just the inspiration Riley needed to be a little prophetic... a snow-blower?! Yes, that would have been nice to have a few days ago when we got 2 feet of snow!!

And here's a video of Riley telling the story of "Thomas' Christmas."

Riley certainly has an air towards the dramatic... wonder what that means for his future... and ours! :) Man, do we love this boy...

Works of Art...

2011-01-18T11:41:00.018-05:00

Riley received his very own camera for Christmas from Memom and Pop and he so enjoys taking pictures of the world. I love seeing what is important and picture-worthy from his perspective.

Here's a sampling of some. These are from Christmas with the Delps and other random pics from December.

Grandpa bowling on the Wii; "Lots of Traffic"; and Backyardigans

Hmm... caught in the act...

Skyping with Memom and Pop...

Don't worry, there will be more to come... :)

Lord, will you grow our faith and increase our love...

2011-01-11T15:27:00.003-05:00

This is our prayer for 2011...

Lord, will you grow our faith and increase our love...

Throughout the year, I'll give tidbits into how we're doing and what God is showing us and teaching us in this area. This covers so many avenues, but so far, I've been reminded of my love for Ryan. Reflecting on 2010 was filled with so many emotions and through all of them, I am humbled and deeply grateful for doing life with Ryan. As we get older and face more of life's curve balls, I'm confident that God will provide, He'll allow what is best for us and what will ultimately bring Him glory.

So I was reading a Karen Kingsburgy fiction book called "Forever" a month ago or so and in it was this list. Funny place to get actual marital advice, but I admit that I even wrote these in my journal, and in my kids' journals. Good reminders for loving well...

TEN SECRETS TO A HAPPY MARRIAGE

"1. God has you here to serve one another. Love acted out is serving.

2. Women need respect and nurturing. Love your wife so she knows you'd lay your life down for her. Continue to date her and admire her. Share a hobby - find something you can do to have fun together.

3. Laugh often.

4. Be patient. Love crumbles quickly under the weight of unmet expectations.

5. Spend more time trying to fix yourself than your spouse.

6. Keep short accounts. The Bible says, "Do not let the sun go down while you are angry." Make it a habit to forgive.

7. Determine upfront that divorce is not an option.

8. Learn about love languages. Not all people show love or receive it the same way. You want a back rub and your spouse wants a clean kitchen. The love languages are fairly simple: acts of service, time, physical touch, gifts, and words of affirmation. Learn them. Love is better received when it's in the language that person speaks.

9. Words of affirmation are a love language for all men.

10. Men are born to be leaders. He cannot lead unless she gives him the confidence to do so. If you love your husband, build him up. Confident men do not seek love outside the home."

I'm so thankful for my husband. While marriage is not easy, I'm grateful that I know I am loved and that he strives to love me better each day, month, year. As we begin this New Year, I'm grateful for you, Ryan. I'm committed to loving you better as we grow older together, I'm excited about showing our children the realities and joys of relationships and the beauty of striving to do life God's way.

Here's to you, Ryan, may God continue to increase our love for each other and may we be creative in showing that love in random ways throughout this year...

Catching Up A Bit...

2010-10-31T14:54:00.017-04:00

Here's a few fun moments from the last few months...

Tyler and Sharon got married in April in Chicagoland. We had a great time and didn't leave 'til close to 11:00 p.m. because Riley was having such fun dancing. Here he is with Kyle and Tyler:

Making Ava laugh has become a favorite for us. Here's some examples:

Our road trip to PA in August, trying to entertain two kids during the L-O-N-G car ride, we played Tall Tale A LOT... where we all work together to tell one story. Here's Daddy'a big finish:

But once we were in PA and MD, we had such fun...

Ode to my husband...

2010-10-25T15:51:00.003-04:00

Disclaimer: I am not just trying to be cheesy with this post. I am not trying to suck up after a fight. I'm coming from a place of humility and awe, which struck me so hard today when we were at the doctor for Riley.

Riley has had a nasty cough for almost 2 months. He has gotten a croup-like cough every year since he was a baby. This Fall, however, has been the worst thus far and we've been up many nights because of this cough. I think between this and having a not-quite 6 month-old, I'm in a constant state of fatigue. :) We've seen the doctor on many occasions for this cough, but there isn't much you can do for a 3-and-a-1/2 year-old, so most of the time, we do nothing and just "keep an eye on it." Today though, after going to the park where they were putting down new mulch, the cough was at an all-time high. So I called the doctor AGAIN. The nurse heard him in the background and said, "Bring him in right now. That doesn't sound good."

Now, I didn't feel fear, I felt relief. But my independent and sometimes-stubborn Riley Bear did not want to go to the doctor and was letting me know with great volume. And I had just put Ava down for a much-needed nap about 15 minutes earlier. So she was crying as I got her in the carseat and Riley was crying because he didn't want to go get another shot (which happened last time at the doctor). So I was battling my own tears of frustration and fatigue, while trying to sound upbeat and positive to make this a good experience so everyone will just calm down.

Ryan had given a lot this weekend. He helped me shop for curtains, helped me hang the curtains, gave up some of his relaxing time to help me with tasks that he didn't really care that much about. And now here I was calling during work hours just to let him know that I was taking Riley to the doctor and we might not be home over lunch. He read me so right and heard the crying in the background, I'm sure and because it was over his lunch-break, he chose to meet us at the doctor, bringing candy as motivation and a pick-me-up for all of us.

Now, I met Ryan in 1997. I fell in love with Ryan in 1998. I have learned much since then, and other than my relationship with the Lord, nothing has brought me greater joy than doing life with Ryan. But honestly, life sometimes takes over and I forget to count my blessings. I take for granted that I have this amazing man that walks beside me. But today was an instance where I felt completely thankful and joyful beyond words as I watched him calmly handle Riley's fears, explain to him what was going to happen, hold him (so I could feed Ava who now not only missed a nap, but was late in eating) while Riley had a nebulizer treatment and tell him the longest, silliest, most interesting story to help pass the time. And Riley responded so positively and maturely to this doctor's appointment. He didn't want to go, but he embraced being a big boy and did an awesome job. He kept saying "I'm being brave like Curious George is brave."

I'm proud of my son, who followed the example and the leadership of his daddy. I admit to getting choked up while watching this scene in front of me, so thankful for Riley and ridiculously thankful for Ryan. I'm grateful to have a partner to do this life and parenting with, who knows me like no one else, responds to me like no one else and carries me when I need help. We joke that we can't wait for the empty nest years to be able to date each other again, but I believe that God designs it this way in that I learn from my husband, I gain greater respect for him during this season of young children so that by the time we're older and can focus on each other again, we have a lifetime of memories and stories that have grown the foundation of love. Ryan's determination to be a good dad, even amongst mistakes or challenges shows me his commitment to me, our kids and to the Lord. And his gracious love for me inspires me to be and do better and to relinquish control to the Lord.

So not just today, but all my days, I love my husband. He is an amazing dad, an accepting friend and a strong and supportive husband.

And I acknowledge humbly and gratefully that I am blessed...

Humble Pie

2010-05-27T15:14:00.003-04:00

So it's all about perspective.

And sometimes perspective is hard to maintain within the first few weeks of having a baby. And sometimes our perspective is tainted by our past experiences, bad attitudes, and let's face it, the Enemy loves to mess up our perspective. I get attacked there often. And since my last post, I'm ready to fight again for my God-focused perspective.

Honestly, my perspective on Ava in the previous post was shadowed by my experience with Riley - who was a difficult, colicy baby. I believe Ava is a normal baby with normal fussiness and normal crying (though her cry is quite loud, which Riley calls the "mad cry"). Now, we all have seasons that are hard and so I'm offering myself grace for the last few weeks, and my feelings during this time were valid, as I really was feeling them. But with my body and schedule and life adjusting to 2 kids and now my mind being able to process and hear what the Lord is showing me, I can say with gladness that I don't think Ava is such a difficult baby.

God has showed me that I can do this, that there will be hard days when I doubt everything around me and let the tears flow, but that the big picture of parenting 2 kids - the 2 kids He gave me - is not only possible, but rewarding and fulfilling and successful. But just as my kids are growing and learning, so am I - which is actually comforting to me. I can learn as we go. I can understand the temper tantrums, the fear, the reluctance to change, the desire to just play and not face responsibility - because I've felt it and sometimes their behaviors help me feel it even more! :)

We're settling into life. Ava is a second child and she will most likely cry more because she will have to wait for things (sorry, second child - I'll do my best to beat this stereotype, but there is some truth to it). And hopefully, sweet Ava, you'll be better for it - maybe it will be easier to learn patience, flexibility, grace and independence. Things that some first borns (i.e. Riley) have some difficulty learning. :) God gave us the personalities in our family for many reasons and I'd like to believe that one reason is to help each of us learn from the other, to be in situations where we are faced with a choice - and may we practice choosing godliness and grace and love.

I love my kids. And God is teaching me so much about Himself and about myself through them. Parenting is a humbling experience. We don't always know what we're doing. But we have to trust that God gave us the wisdom we desperately ask for. And He will continue to give grace and strength in the moments when it seems overwhelming. But I'm grateful for the quiet moments that also exist that remind me that life won't always be like this - my kids will grow up and I will miss these days (I keep telling myself that because I can't say I fully believe it at this point).

Each day gets a little better, a little brighter as we learn just a little bit more...

And the lessons continue...

2010-05-20T08:28:00.003-04:00

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." - Romans 15:5-6

God gives endurance and encouragement...

This struck me today in a special way. I'm in the midst of transition. Ava is just over 2 weeks old and we are adjusting to our new normal with a baby who seems to not be the mellow, simple girl I confess I was hoping for. Granted, she's only 2 weeks old, so who knows what she'll be like, and so some of these feelings I'm experiencing right now may very well be due to sleep-deprivation and hormonal changes that make me emotional and over-analytical. BUT, having a baby with an active 3-year old has so far been more difficult than I'd care for. :) Surprisingly though, it's not the 3-year old who is making it hard, it's the baby.

Riley has been so sweet and loving and understanding and patient. I have been surprised at how he thrives on helping and seems to be patiently accepting that Mommy can't play all the time. And he has developed more of an independent streak when it comes to playing, which I find absolutely wonderful. He has his rough times, but overall, he is handling this all very well.

Ava, however, has quite the pair of lungs and likes to hear herself cry apparently. She cries often and reaches rage rather quickly. Riley is even scared of her crying and we are learning to not scream when she cries, for then the whole family is stressed and chaotic! Remaining calm during her cries is our goal now - for all our sakes.

Yesterday I had a bit of a meltdown and couldn't hold back the tears. Tears of disappointment that God had given me another crying baby; tears of discouragement because I can't read her yet and don't know what to do to help her calm down; tears of sadness for not being able to play with my Riley-bear; and tears of exhaustion. Even though I know this is a temporary season, remaining hopeful and encouraged is more difficult than I'd like to admit.

So when I read the verses in Romans this morning, I found it very comforting to know that GOD is the one who gives endurance and encouragement. It's not something I need to do and find on my own. All I need to do is to cry out to Him and He will give me the strength I need for that moment. This lesson again... didn't I just learn this? I guess I didn't fully grasp it. His grace is sufficient. If I can focus on TODAY, not 3 months from now, I will get through this season with beautiful memories and stories at how God created our family of 4 to know and love each other for who He made us to be, not necessarily for who we want each other to be or what our expectations are.

In all things, He refines and grows us. And just like I'm trying to teach Riley: even when we're tired and grumpy, we still can make good choices of obedience and kindness. So Lord, here I am, committing to seek you for endurance and encouragement and not to try to do it all on my own...

Refiner's Fire

2010-04-02T16:23:00.009-04:00

The house is quiet on Good Friday. Ryan is off of work, but went to run some errands. Riley is sleeping (thank you LORD!!!). And I'm enjoying the quiet time, telling myself to sit and relax.

Funny that my verse for the day in my Kay Arthur flipbook was about Mary and Martha... I tend to be so much like Martha at times and this pregnancy has forced me to slow down and become more Mary-like. But funny how even in those moments, my mind wanders to what I could and should be doing. Could be personality, could be long list of to-do's since moving into a new home and getting settled, could be that any distraction is temptation when I could be spending time with my LORD. But I'm choosing to put words to lessons learned and reflections made over the last month - hoping to hold onto these lessons. Especially today as I'm very aware of Jesus' sacrifice for me. And I want to be more in practice of sacrificing for Him.

A message at church got me a couple weeks ago. It didn't hit me so profoundly at the time, but as days go by, I think about it more and more. The pastor was talking about Jesus being our Savior AND our Lord. We so often focus on Him saving us from our temptations, sinful habits and inconvenient or uncomfortable circumstances. And while He does serve as that Saving King, He is also my Lord, to whom I am a willing servant, bound to Him for EVERYTHING.

I am on the brink of having even less me-time and less official "quiet time" with the Lord as I look down the calendar page to baby girl's arrival in a few weeks. And a part of me mourns that, as Riley gets older and takes less frequent naps and as baby girl will be on a whole different schedule than Riley. And yet, I'm trying to choose to see this season as growing my creativity with my LORD. If EVERYTHING I do is for and because of Him, then that means the simple things of motherhood, wifehood (is that a word?!) and mehood (I KNOW that's not a word, but oh well), I can still worship and spend time with Him as Lord whilst being surrounded by distraction.

And maybe this is preparation for this next season of purpose, after learning so lessons in the move to Chicago. I have learned that:

God fulfills His promise to give us the strength and grace we need to get through each day. It might not be all the strength we want and it may not mean that life is easy, but He will be with us as we walk through the different paths in our lives. He doesn't necessarily give us strength for tomorrow, for our focus should be on today. But in the moment, He will be our strength if we let Him.
It is overwhelmingly special to be accepted with open arms in any new situation in life. We have had such a powerful and accepting welcome from people in Chicago. You may say it's the Midwestern style, but we feel like it's more than that... God has provided us with encouragement and hope with the people we've come in contact with. We have felt people genuinely caring for us and providing for us, including meals after we moved in, neighborly visits with freshly baked bread and treats, asking deep and authentic questions to find out how we're really doing, playdates, prayer, and a genuine interest in who we are and how we are adjusting. I've had invitations to mom groups and have met so many people that are excited that we are here. What a difference that makes - and what an encouragement for me to remember to offer in the future when I meet someone new.
Patience is learned through practice. After having life completely change - new home in a new state with a new job for both Ryan and me (I'm now staying at home full time), and a new baby on the way, I'm learning that while my independent and stubborn self just wants to be settled already, there is purpose for things taking time. In the midst of the change, God shows us more about ourselves - our character, areas that we need to work on, our goals and hopes, and how we can use all of this to relate to others. And I have enjoyed the way that my Lord is teaching me. Gentle and gracious. He knows I'm in a semi-fragile state of mind and so He builds me up while He is showing me areas to work on. "It's Your kindness that leads to repentance. It's Your love that brings forgiveness. It's Your mercy that brings me here to Your throne of grace..."

I could go on and on, but this blog is getting long. I'm so thankful for our emotions, that allow us to feel deeply whatever we are going through and how God uses those emotions to teach and mold and shape us. He has brought us out of a place of comfort into a life where we are forced to deal with ourselves and our relationship with Him in a more personal and desperate place. I am grateful that He meets us where we are, in the midst of those emotions to comfort and strengthen us while the refining is occurring. And so, what better place to be than in the fire with my Lord.

And we are loving the closeness we are feeling as a family of almost 4, relying on each other more and enjoying encouraging and loving each other more. There is so much good in change, when we allow the Lord to be in the center of the change...

Trusting and waiting...

2010-02-08T16:06:00.002-05:00

I'm learning a lot about trust lately.

We're moving to Illinois in about 2 weeks. We still have not sold our house and do not have any sense of someone wanting to buy our house. We had a potential lease/purchase deal that fell through the end of last week. We were disappointed in this because we truly felt that God had provided this family as an answer to our prayers and He provided our house as an answer to their prayers. It seemed that both families felt a godly sense of peace. And then something happened on their end and they had to back out. We understand and feel sad for what they are currently going through, and at the same time, we were left with big confusion on our end. We felt that God had made this quite clear to us through several confirmations - and now we were facing that fact that it wasn't an option anymore.

So back to square one.

Questions arose of our understanding God's plan and His faithfulness. Did we misread God? Did our own emotions and control take over, even when we felt that they hadn't? Why would He allow us to get so close and to feel His leading only to allow it to fall apart?

And yet, all through this newfound information, I had a weird combination of feeling a sense of calm peace that it would be okay and a bit of anxiety of understanding how at the same time.

Again, another great devotional chapter by Alicia Britt Chole that started with this sentence...

"Have you ever felt confused about God's faithfulness?"

Um, yes, I'm listening, Lord...

"The writers of the Bible - who knew trouble and hardship in this world firsthand - unanimously confirm that God can be trusted, relied on, and believed in: He is a faithful God.

Moses proclaims, "The Lord your God is God..."

That statement rang in my ears for many moments. God is God. GOD is God. God IS God. God is GOD. This is what I am learning. God is God and He can do what He wants and what He sees fit, even if my merely human mind cannot understand or like it. It doesn't take away His sovereignty, His promise that He has a plan that is my hope and future and for His glory. And because He sees the bigger picture and knows how the story ends, all I can do - truly, ALL I CAN DO is trust Him.

Yet He made me an emotional person (especially now since I'm pregnant with a girl!!) and He understands that I am as a sheep. But if I truly trust, I need to, like Abraham, be willing to walk up the mountain expecting to sacrifice my son, knowing that if it is in my best interests, God will provide the lamb at the last minute. But I don't want to walk up the mountain grumbling and complaining the whole way - that takes the focus off Him and on me. I somehow am finding joy in the waiting, in the expectation that He is faithful and will provide the way.

"Because of the Lord's great love WE ARE NOT CONSUMED..." - Lamentations 3:22

"... suffering did not invalidate God's faithfulness; suffering is where they experienced God's faithfulness. We become confused because we falsely believe that the purpose of God's faithfulness is to prevent loss, shield us from all harm, and protect us from disappointment. But the writers of the Bible saw evidence of God's faithfulness not in their comfort level or circumstances but in God's constant companionship: God was with them - through the trials, first and aches of life.... The faithfulness of God does not exist to keep us free from pain but to keep us focused on the path toward heaven. His faithfulness is not concentrated on the superficial or temporary. God has an eternal agenda: to faithfully guide our souls - through the suffering, loss, conflict, and pain of this world - into his everlasting arms."

Amen and Amen. Thank you Lord for growing me and for giving me joy during the questions of waiting. I rest in YOU - for You promised to never leave me or forsake me. And You began this great work of moving us to Chicago, You will not stop working now... I give us again to You...

Big changes on the horizon...

2010-01-05T09:45:00.002-05:00

Why is it that in the face of uncertainty, we tend to panic, stress, worry, analyze and worry some more?

Why is it that as a believer in the God of the universe, I still struggle in fully trusting, fully focusing and fully embracing my God?

Our family is experiencing many transitions right now, feeling a little stuck in limbo. Baby Girl is due in April and the transition to 2 kids is daunting on some days, thrilling on most days. We're moving to Chicago the end of February - with or without selling our house. The idea of packing up and leaving PA is sad and discouraging on some days, exciting and affirming on most days. The burden of selling our house is defeating and stressful on most days, a successful lesson in trust and character on only some days.

We've been struggling to leave this at His feet... seemingly the battle between our heart knowing that God is in control, He promises to provide, to never leave us, to be our strength and joy on one side and the worldly head knowledge that fights for that control, wanting to do it on our own and do it quickly on the other side. Waiting and watching for Him to work is the hard part. We feel like Israelites in that God answered so quickly and obviously for weeks at a time and now that we've been waiting for our house to sell for almost 2 months, we are doubting, questioning, and worrying, sometimes forgetting His faithfulness.

I read this morning in my devotions a chapter that really touched me and wanted to share...

"Building Muscle" is the title of this chapter by Alicia Britt Chole.

"... But when obedience leads us to decrease visibly - in what the world sees and applauds - that decrease creates a unique opportunity to increase spiritually in what God sees and applauds. The challenge is, however, that productivity looks different in such seasons. Instead of being praised for completed projects, we are given countless occasions to make peace with the incomplete. Instead of being promoted for being 'first,' we are given numerous opportunities to find joy in being last.

This different type of growth reminds me of the counsel I received from a fitness trainer... He explained that at first I would feel as though I were really making progress, because the initial fat burn would be easily visible. 'Then,' he cautioned, 'you'll come to me and ask what's wrong because you're not seeing as much change. Don't be fooled and don't be discouraged. That's when the real work is occurring. It means you're starting to build muscle.'

Building muscle (and building character) is a different type of productivity. It is less visible. And more powerful. In fact character growth is the 'real work' of life."

And herein lies my personal prayer for this period of transition...

Lord Jesus, fogive my lack of trust and my unbelief. Help me to believe and to trust. While it's hard and it's not the most fun place to be, it's not the worst place to be. You have still blessed me so graciously. Help me to wait on you, not looking at the success of others or the time that goes by, but to fully trust that You know what You are doing and that ALL THINGS are for my good and YOUR glory. And help me to make this season of transition a positive time of trusting and knowing you in a powerful way and of making myself less so that you can become more. Not worried, but trusting. Not stressed, but resting. So that You can again show me Your faithfulness, Your provision, Your amazing and personal work not just in my circumstances, but in ME...

- missy

North Dakota or Bust...

2009-07-09T21:13:00.025-04:00

We just returned from North Dakota and the Domsten Family Reunion. It was GREAT to see my immediate and extended family...

We had fun "fying in de aiirre in de aipane!"

We visited the farm where my Dad grew up...

And my Dad's school...

We saw the church my Dad's mom's family attended and we could even go inside!

And we loved seeing family...

My Dad's siblings: Gene, Dean, Carol, Dad (Dale) and Marlin

Two of my cousins (Brent and Denise)

Mom, her sister Pat and their grandkids

Riley, Abby, Lukey, Scout, Charlie, and Jamie

Oh and Riley LOVED the 4th of July Parade, which included his favorite... firetrucks!

Why Oh Why I am so bad at blogging regularly??

2009-07-09T20:36:00.018-04:00

Well, face it, I'm not consistent in the blogging field. But I have lots of other strengths, so I'm okay with it. : )

So since we need to once again catch up on a few months, here are some highlights.

Memorial Day weekend started summer with a bang! Jen / Matt Botzler and Steve / Val Cap came with us to the Bay and we started the summer off right...

And we all know that summer means Bay weekends!! We've gotten there a few times this summer...

We went up to Lake George, NY to stay at Tracy's family's cabin, where it was so peaceful...

And summer is only half-over! More to come, most likely in a month from now. ;)

Fun Riley Moments...

2009-05-17T16:03:00.022-04:00

One of Riley's favorite things to do after his bath is to watch You-Tube videos of Firetrucks, Police Cars, etc. This is an all-time favorite... Lots and Lots of Firetrucks...

Riley and his friend Carter's sing-along...

and well, apparently it's not cool when Mommy sings too...

Celebrating Riley's 2nd Birthday with Steve and Val...

Riley's friend Julia had a birthday party at a small Zoo and Riley's favorite animal out of everything was a white Snow Owl... it was hard to leave...

Me-ma and Me-pa Domsten Visit!!

2009-05-17T15:30:00.021-04:00

We had SOO much fun when Grandma and Grandpa Domsten came to visit... more than words can describe. But here are some glimpses of the great fun:

We went to the Please-Touch Museum...

We celebrated Riley's 2nd Birthday!

And we laughed a lot!!

We love you so much Grandma and Grandpa and you are ALWAYS in our hearts... Thanks for the fun, the good talks, the encouragement and your love for us.

Easter 2009...

2009-05-17T15:17:00.009-04:00

Thank you Aaron and Perrine for a GREAT Easter Egg Hunt!

Easter with the Delps, Mangums, Naces, and Commons...

Happy LATE Easter... but He's STILL risen... ;)

The Barretts were in town!!

2009-03-17T15:44:00.010-04:00

We were so happy that Mel and Scott came to visit!

We celebrated Ryan's birthday just the way he wanted too... a day in the city and an evening of sushi and Rockband. 32's lookin' good!

Riley super enjoyed spending time with his cool aunt and uncle... so much so that he didn't nap for 2 days straight! And even when told he had to rest, he kept saying "Play Maul 'n Geott" (which of course means "I would like to play with Mel and Scott, Mother"). We tried to convince him to sleep... but it didn't work...

Thank you guys for coming out here... it meant a lot to us and we love you so much...

Ah some classic Riley moments...

2009-02-25T15:01:00.012-05:00

Riley and Daddy jamming...

Daddy and Riley singing Stevie Wonder... our dinner entertainment...

Riley and Carter dancing...

Helping Daddy...

If Riley can't get something to work, it must be the batteries...

Wheels on the Bus...

2009-02-25T14:03:00.013-05:00

As promised, here are videos of some of our "Wheels on the Bus" verses. There are so many verses that we only captured some of them. These are longer videos, so get the popcorn ready...

Video 1 includes the following verses: Wheels, Babies, Firetrucks, Police Cars, Mommy, Daddy, Kids, and Grandma Domsten

Video 2 includes the following verses: Grandpa Domsten, Pop Delp, Grandmom Delp, Uncle Tracy, Aunt Jenna and G.G. / Pop-Pop Nace's clock

The sickness is ALMOST over...

2009-01-28T15:07:00.017-05:00

It's been a long, L-O-N-G sick season here at the Delps. One of us has had either a cold or the stomach flu non-stop since the week before Christmas. Riley is turning around (just a bit of a cough and occasional running nose now) and as of yesterday, I'm on drugs to help kick the crap out of me. Ryan is holding his own, still trying to get over the sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, stuffy head, wish you could get some rest, needing medicine feeling... BUT... for the first time in over a month, I feel HOPE that we won't be sick forever.

So all that to say, I haven't felt much like posting. So here are just some random pics from the last month.

Delp Christmas at our house Christmas morning...

Delp Christmas in Pennsylvania...

Domsten Christmas in Michigan...

Ah sickness means lying around and doing nothing... a whole lot...

So much so that you start to get Cabin Fever and do crazy things...

But friends make us feel so much better...

And a special thank you to Mom and Dad Delp... who sacrificed their own health to help us in the midst of an all-time low weekend when all three of us had some level of the stomach (and other places) flu. I seriously, wholeheartedly, humbly am so thankful for you both. Thank you for showing us such amazing love and care...

Random pics

2008-12-15T21:37:00.019-05:00

It's been a while since I've posted... so let's catch up on the last month. :)

Just hangin' out...

One of Riley's favorite past-times: playing at the kitchen table

Dance Party USA...

You can see where he gets it...

Go Delps!

Wake up Daddy... no wait, Go To Sleep Daddy! (Still learning the "gentle" part - but we're getting better!)

Sing Along with me...

"He looks like he's from Michigan..."

2008-11-17T21:20:00.004-05:00

...said Ryan.

Ah, music to my ears... even though we're in PA, it's nice to know that there's a little Michigan in my son.

Fun Times...

2008-11-17T20:42:00.012-05:00

Here's some random fun moments.

Thank you Wiggles for this little tune... though Riley seems a bit shell-shocked through some of it. It think it's one of his favorite songs. Other than "Wheels on the Bus," which we'll try and capture for you soon...

Where's Riley? - a game that never gets old... to some, or should I say, to one... :)

PUZZLES!!

Carter and Riley... and my WAY-OUT-OF-TUNE guitar...

Leaves they are a changing... still!

2008-11-10T20:20:00.006-05:00

We're amazed that the color of the leaves still seems to be so beautiful! And we're trying to take full advantage of it! We've gone on many walks, some drives and some hikes... it's a beautiful Fall - no wonder it's my favorite time of year! It's starting to get a little colder out now so our walks are getting less and less and we're bundling up more and more. Why can't Fall last about another month?!!

Halloween it is for us...

2008-11-03T20:20:00.016-05:00

Ryan's dream came true when we finally found a Yoda costume for Riley...

And Riley was so excited! We both thought he looked so cool, which enhanced his excitement just a bit... he loved seeing himself in the mirror and saying "ya-ya" which of course means Yoda.

We had fun seeing our neighbors and family - and Riley attempted saying Trick or Treat a few times, but it sounded more like "teet-teet."

Happy Halloween everyone!

Go Phillies!!

2008-10-29T22:11:00.007-04:00

Phillies 2008 World Series Champs!

Buddies...

2008-10-27T21:30:00.004-04:00

Riley and Carter have been getting together about twice a week since Riley was 6 months old. They are learning about friendship, sharing and getting along with others. Sometimes they do this so well, other times not so much. :) But either way, it's fun to watch their familiarity and friendship with one another grow...

Rainy Weekend at the Bay...

2008-10-13T20:28:00.018-04:00

A bit of old news... but good news and I just wanted to share... so there... :)

We enjoyed our last hoorah at the Bay the last weekend of September. We were glad to have Grandmom and Pop Delp, Aunt Jenna and Great-Aunt Patti and Great-Uncle Doug there with us to call the summer to a close. We missed Uncle Tracy, but he was never far from Riley's mind... as he seemed to say "Tseet-See" a few times a day. :)

It was a bit rainy, so we had to make up our own fun at times...

We played some RockBand... and Riley really got into it!

A highlight was dancing with Doug!

We had a small break from the rain and had one last boat ride...

It was a good summer... and we're already excited for next year...

Words and Funny Things...

2008-10-09T20:42:00.008-04:00

Riley's been learning so much lately... there are new words everyday. He's such a funny boy and seems to really have Daddy's sense of humor. He definitely keeps us laughing...

Parade of Joy

2008-10-09T20:06:00.015-04:00

A better description could not be found... Mel and Scott's wedding was simply that... a parade of joy from beginning to end. My precious, beautiful sister is married. Her husband is an amazing man from an amazing family - a delightful addition to the sweetness of our existing family. I feel so blessed - and it's humbling...

I have been a part of some tremendous things in my short life of 30 years. And this weekend was another to add to the list. A few of my personal highlights include:

Driving to the church the day of the wedding with my two sisters, praying for Mel as we drove... kinda like we used to do going to school and spending time together when we were younger

The "Parade of Joy" as Mel so perfectly called it... the nieces and nephews walking down the aisle before her yelling "The Bride is coming!" (though you couldn't really hear them) and ringing their bells. Riley stood frozen in the aisle, happily ringing his bell... but not moving much. Thanks to Daddy being a good sport, Riley made it down the aisle looking over the heads of his cousins.

The look on Mel's face as she walked down the aisle. The look of Mom's and Dad's faces as they took part...

Seeing Scott's face during the congregational singing... face lifted to the heavens, big smile, eyes closed, singing his heart out... Mel and Scott love the Lord so beautifully...

Singing with more joy than I can explain at the wedding and the reception... at that point it was so not about my enjoyment of singing... it was all in admiration of what God had done in Mel and Scott's life thus far and what He'll continue to do in and through them in the future.

Holding onto my son and my husband during the slide show at the reception... I am so blessed...

It's Fall Already...

2008-09-22T20:12:00.015-04:00

I feel like this summer has gone so quickly - and here we are with the beginning of Fall already! This summer has been full of activity, lessons learned, joy and laughter. I feel truly grateful for the life that we have - that we've been given. It's not always easy and it's not always fun, but the depth of life continues to grow and shape us. And that is what we find truly beautiful...

We jumped into Fall yesterday and enjoyed a day at MerryMead, a local farm/pumpkin patch. We had lots of fun... so different from last year when Riley sat so calmly for his pictures with pumpkins. This year, his 18-month-old energy got the better of him at times. :)

But we finally did get some pictures...

Riley loved seeing the cows...

and running around like a crazy person...

All in all, a good day. Happy Fall!!

Jumping Animal Sounds!

2008-08-04T20:44:00.009-04:00

Riley loves books and he loves animals. Here's one of his favorites... "Moo, Baa La La La..." He's loved this book since he was really little. But now it's a little more interactive!!

And Riley is learning to jump - he wants to be like his Daddy...

Bay House

2008-07-15T16:19:00.018-04:00

I realize I haven't been posting very often this summer. We are having such a fun summer, I think I forget to capture the moments and post them on the blog. Can you believe summer is about half-way over? It's going so fast!

Riley is LOVING all things at the Bay! We so enjoy going to Grasonville, Maryland (Riley's middle name namesake) where Ryan's family has had a house for many years. We get special time with family, on the beach, in the boat, eating crab, and relaxing. Yay for summer!

Time with family...

Boat Rides!

First Time Eating Crab... maybe we'll wait until next year.

Before:

After:

We love the beach...

Pirated laughter

2008-07-15T16:03:00.004-04:00

Ryan's sister Jenna has been watching Riley twice a week this summer. It's been so great for them to spend time together - and they're having lots of fun... as is seen from this video that she took of the two of them. It warms my heart every time I see it...

Thanks Aunt Jenna...

Domstenfest 2008

2008-07-07T20:00:00.024-04:00

We loved getting together with our Domsten family the end of June. It's always such a sweet time and always goes much too quickly. It's so fun to see the kids together...

I love these videos... I don't really know why, they're just so fun...

We love you...

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-18T19:37:00.007-04:00

Riley is so lucky to have a Daddy who is so fun, who loves him so much and genuinely enjoys being with him.

We love you, Daddy!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-15T22:06:00.004-04:00

Mother's Day was special. Riley is such a sweet boy and loves to laugh and hug and give slobbery kisses. I cannot begin to describe the joy and love I feel as a mom...

but this shows just one of the reasons I'm so happy being Riley's mom...

Little Racer

2008-05-15T21:55:00.005-04:00

We had fun at the park the other day. Check out our cool dude...

The motorcycle is in sight...

Vrooommm...

I love my Domsten family...

2008-05-06T16:37:00.011-04:00

We had such a sweet time with some of our favorite people... Greg, Katy, Lukey and Abby. They came from Chicago to stay for the weekend and boy were we excited!!

We had so much fun. We laughed and talked and played. Greg and Ryan were able to go golfing and Katy and I had some precious time walking around the mall and truly catching up. And we played and bonded with Luke and Abby. Riley loved watching and talking and playing with his cousins.

Thank you, Domsten four - you are truly cherished and our time together meant so much to us.

Lots to Say...

2008-04-29T08:31:00.003-04:00

The Delp family experienced their first night apart this past weekend. Our good friends, Steve and Val overwhelmed us with their generosity and kindness by watching Riley overnight.

Ryan and I had a great night together, remembering how much we enjoy being together. We were even excited about the hour-wait at the restaurant!!

And Riley had a great time with Steve and Val. He is such a lucky boy to be so loved - and Steve and Val took great care of him.

And from the sound of our car ride to church the next morning, Riley had a great time too. We asked Riley what he did with Steve and Val and then he babbled on and on about all the good times - on the way TO and FROM church. He had a really good time.

Hooray for warm weather!

2008-04-16T20:32:00.009-04:00

It's getting warm in PA and we are loving it!

We enjoyed the sunshine last weekend by going to Freddy Hill Farms to watch Daddy hit some golf balls, explore new places, converse with anyone and everyone in our path, see the animals at the petting zoo, and joy of all joys - enjoy a first ice cream cone. Then we went for a walk in the park. Sadly, for all of this fun, we forgot our camera! Ugh! But we captured some of it via camera phone...

Riley on the way home... man, the park can really make you sleepies!

More Fun with the Fam...

2008-04-09T17:20:00.009-04:00

We all really enjoyed having Grandma and Grandpa Domsten and Mel here for Easter. We all got lots of loving and lots of coffee... what more could you ask for?!

Riley thought it was great. He loved having so many people to play with that all look like him! And watch this... Grandpa will go with me wherever I go!

And we had fun playing the Wii that Ryan got for his birthday. We even made characters for our entire family... we'll have to show you next time we're all together! It was pretty funny! Here's Mom and Dad...

Mel and Ry had a good time beating each other up... I especially like hearing Dad laughing in the background. :)

We are so thankful for our family. Thanks again for coming out to see us - we are still talking about all our memories. We love you so much.

Love,
Us

Happy Birthday...

2008-03-26T20:24:00.022-04:00

Riley turned One Year Old on March 22.

We were so excited to have some family come in to celebrate with us and we enjoyed our special time with Grandma and Grandpa Domsten and Mel...

And oh man, did we have a great party to celebrate! Riley loved his cake - made from scratch, thank you very much... ah the joys of having a son with an egg allergy! He started off slowly, but by the end, he had lifted the entire cake to eat it like a cookie.

We also dedicated Riley to the Lord at his birthday party. We are so amazed by the love and support we feel - and for the many special people that love Riley and us so well.

Thank you, God, for showing Your love to us through our relationships with others.

First Haircut

2008-03-16T16:59:00.009-04:00

We took Riley to get his first official haircut on Saturday. We went to the barber shop that Ryan has gone to for many years. It's as old-school as you get, which is why Ryan loves it so much.

Riley did great - and towards the end Frank give him a pretzel to keep him doing well!

I feel like Riley is growing up so quickly - he looks less and less like a baby. And now, after this haircut, he really looks like a little boy...

I love my boys...

Ode to Snoopy

2008-03-16T16:25:00.003-04:00

Riley has loved one of his flannel blankets since birth (Thank you, Carole!) We have begun calling his prized possession the Snoopy blanket - or just Snoopy or Snoops for short.

Even when playing happily, he will occasionally look for Snoopy, cuddle with Snoopy and trip over Snoopy. The other day I believe I heard Riley yelling for Snoopy (which sounds more like "oope") from upstairs. When we went downstairs, there was Snoopy waiting to be hugged.

If only we could capture his love and excitement at each glimpse of Snoopy, but this comes close...

Problem-Solving 101

2008-02-27T14:25:00.001-05:00

Watch Riley try to put together a ball that has fallen apart. He's really concentrating and trying to figure out how to make this ball fit together...

The amazing thing is that even with the genes he's inherited from both Mommy and Daddy, he's not growing frustrated during this process!

Book... Book... Book...

2008-02-27T14:08:00.000-05:00

Riley is obsessed with reading right now... seriously, obsessed. He will bring Mommy and/or Daddy book after book, wanting to share and read each one - several times at that. He never grows tired of any book and definitely has his favorites...

Froggy Loves To Read
Moo Baa Lalala
Touchy Smelly something or other (I'll look later at the title)
The Elephant's Big Ride (Story of Noah)
Santa's Big Hat (yes, we haven't put it away yet because he loves it so much)
Catapillar Spring, Butterfly Summer

There are so many more, but these seem to be the most often picked. We are practicing our memorization skills without even trying!

Anyway, here's an example...

My Friend Carter

2008-02-13T20:22:00.001-05:00

Riley enjoys getting to play with his friend Carter twice a week. It's fun to watch them learn, even at this age, about friendship. Sometimes they love to play together, sometimes they need their space. They talk to each other - even from separate rooms and get in each other's way. They're happy to see each other and sometimes sad to say goodbye. Oh boys... so cute...

Musical Genius

2008-02-09T09:04:00.001-05:00

Yes, at such a young age, we're convinced Riley is a musical genius. Well, musical anyway... :)

Riley the Rocker

Riley the Drummer (Chad, you'd be proud...)

Riley the DJ??

Hey, we're first-time parents, we're impressed with anything! :)

Walking... one STEP at a time... hehe!

2008-02-06T20:14:00.001-05:00

Of course, our son pushes the toy his own way...

Just one day later... And look how quickly he improves!

Why walk when you can crawl

2008-02-04T21:10:00.000-05:00

So Riley is officially walking (well, he's taken about 7-10 steps at a time) but he would so much rather crawl. And why not, it looks like such fun! He's so much closer to the toys!

He's learned how to be creative with his crawling and likes to see how he can balance while up on a ball or anything else he can hold in his hands.

Ah never a dull moment with the Riley Bear...

Riley loves Aunt Mel...

2008-01-17T21:10:00.000-05:00

We enjoyed our visit with Mel and Scott... and here's proof!

We played...

We laughed...

We posed...

And we were so sad to say goodbye...

We love you guys and we had so much fun with you here!!

Gorilla Baby

2008-01-06T19:38:00.000-05:00

This little monkey is slowly learning to walk...

This little monkey is learning to feed himself... mmm... who wants some?!! (notice the spoon that has been thrown onto the floor)

This little monkey is looking for a tree to swing from...

This little monkey is learning to talk...

God bless us everyone...

2008-01-02T09:18:00.000-05:00

We had a GREAT Christmas - and we hope you did too. Here are some highlights.

We were excited about our tradition of opening our stockings on Grandmom and Pop's bed!

So many gifts... Being the first grandchild on the Delp side, this was exciting for all us!

We feel especially blessed this Christmas. Not just because of the gifts that were received, but more than that - God loved us more than we can imagine and sent His son to this dark world to bring us light and life. We see a tiny bit more of God's character now that we, for this moment in time, have an only son - what LOVE, that would choose to sacrifice, choose to be separated, choose to make Himself sin, so that we can live eternally, live life to the full, knowing love and grace and joy and hope.

We have much to be thankful for and celebrate: We have amazing family, both near and far. Riley has brought us joy and delight. I so enjoy Ryan and watching him brings tears to my eyes - he is such a wonderful husband and father and friend. And while nothing is ever perfect here in this world, we see glimpses of heaven through our time together as family. We love you all. Merry Christmas.

The wonder of Christmas is summed up by this beautiful face...

Delp Look-alike Meter

2007-12-18T13:55:00.001-05:00

So we copied this from friends of ours, but we'd love to know what you think... who does Riley look more like?

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities - Collage - Morph

Our cute Riley Bear...

2007-12-08T19:57:00.001-05:00

Holding onto Fall... even though it's December...

2007-12-08T19:44:00.001-05:00

This is an older post that didn't get up in time... so our Fall decorations are now down, we're ready for Christmas and from the feel of the weather outside, we're officially into Winter... But we sure enjoyed the Fall... it just never seems to last long enough...

Thanksmas 2007

2007-11-28T14:35:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas with the Domsten Family in Michigan last weekend. It was so fun to have everyone together and watch the cousins play, laugh with one another and simply enjoy this season of our lives.

To our crazy, beautiful and intimate family: We are so thankful for each of you. And while we are no longer physically together, our hearts remain with you...

Our House... Is a Very Very Very Fine House...

2007-11-10T08:05:00.001-05:00

To my Domsten Family: Here are some videos of our house. Remember, it's a work in progress and we have lots of work planned for the New Year. But it's ours and we are so grateful for it. We are so excited to see you in a few weeks! Welcome to our humble home...

Movin' and a-shakin'...

2007-11-05T20:36:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween...

2007-11-05T20:29:00.001-05:00

Go Eagles!

2007-11-05T20:15:00.001-05:00

Even though the Eagles STINK right now... we're still holding on to the dream...

Happy Birthdays and sweet little Riley Bear

2007-10-15T22:35:00.000-04:00

During my birthday date with my amazing husband, I was asked to share some of my highlights from the last year... and without hesitation, I thought of Riley and all the joy he has brought to our little family.

It's fun to have such contentment staying at home laughing and playing with my loving family. Here's some examples of my joy and our fun:

Riley's Room

2007-10-14T21:49:00.000-04:00

We were finally able to get Riley's new room painted and he couldn't wait to show it off!

Warning: Chubby Naked Baby Below

2007-10-06T09:02:00.000-04:00

We knew early on that Riley loves to be naked. This is from when he was 2 1/2 months old.

And Oh how Riley loves his baths! Check out his man-boobs!! :)

What it takes to be a Mommy...

2007-10-01T21:40:00.000-04:00

This is something I have long thought about, "prepared" for the best I knew how - and yet, I'm still learning each and every day what it really takes to be a Mommy... It goes so much deeper than any relationship I've known, beyond words, beyond expression. I love my husband with everything in me, but the love I have for Riley is different - and I can't even explain it. The weight of my love for Riley is heavy and while I'm constantly learning what that means, I'm humbled by it.

And yet, even with this amazing love, there are good days and bad days, frustration and joy. In my analytical mind, I've thought of these things that to me, begin to define motherhood; things that are not just endured, but somehow appreciated and cherished:

Getting up as many times as needed during the night, even if just for a comforting pat on the back or the affirmation that I'm there and somehow having the God-given patience and grace to go through the day without feeling sleepy
Comforting a snotty-nosed, watery eyed, spit-up smelling boy as he reaches up and pulls me in for an open-mouthed kiss
Trying to eat dinner with one hand because I've been away from Riley all day and we both just want to be as close as possible for a few minutes more, even at the most inconvenient times
Being the one to take over when he's at his worst, crying his hardest and yet somehow finding the grace and joy to comfort
Letting any glimpse of frustration melt away in seconds by observing toothless grins and smiley eyes directed at me
Holding Riley's hands so that he can stand and dance, watching him squeal with glee and excitement - just at being big enough to stand and do something on his own - seeing that he's already excited to no longer needing to be held. The process of letting go begins even now as I let him be him
Reading to him at bedtime, watching him cuddle into me as I hold him tight, singing and sharing smiles and hugs
Seeing his excitement the next morning as Mommy or Daddy enter the room, ready to do the same routines as the day before, but loving each repetitive moment

Despite any ounce of frustration and doubt of lost me-time and/or freedom, there is nothing like being a Mommy. The picture of God's love for me has grown and deepened. The idea of grace is refreshed each day as I see my own selfishness and sinfulness. The appreciation for my husband, who loves me so well and loves Riley in such tangible, real ways is humbling and rejuvinating.

Sometimes I've fought the thoughts of feeling that so many parts of my life have been hard... or should I say just not easy. And then I experience the love and respect and appreciation I have for Ryan and the adoration and contentment and joy I have in being Riley's mom... and well, I realize that while God may bless each of us differently and on different levels, I am indeed blessed.

Thank you, Lord, for my boys. I give them back to you and pray You'll give me grace upon grace in how I love and show love. You are so good to me...