Aaron...

Tonight I am finally getting a chance to sit down. It's been one of those days. One of those weeks, really.

Cade is gearing up for his first Piano recital. The same day as the recital, is our second anniversary celebration at the church.
Libbi is doing well. We put potty training on "hold" for right now. She just wasn't ready to take quite the leap her little brother was at her age. I'm good with that!

The two retreats are coming up fast. I've been squeezing in any writing/studying time I get during the early morning hours, and the late evening. That being said, I'll keep this short. =)

Fall is here, and with it much cooler weather! Yeah!!!

And speaking of cool...Check out the Kansas City Royals!!! Going to the World Series after a LONG, LONG, time. Good for them! They deserve it! A team with all heart, scratching out every play, sacrificing whatever it takes for a win.

I would like to ask you, faithful readers, for prayer. Aaron goes in tomorrow to see his Oncologist. Yeah, you read that correctly. He has Melanoma. They don't know stages, or if its metastasized yet. Tests will be forthcoming. They are hopeful, based on the first biopsy that it is early and "surface." They have to do a full body scan, as they don't know if this is the primary or not.

I hate cancer. Big or small. The waiting. The fear. The waiting. The constant interruptions. The waiting. But one thing I know...God is ALWAYS with us. Through it all. His presence is irreplaceable.

I'll keep in touch.

-Erin

Repurposing...

         We keep rolling around here. Through busyness, colds, potty training, school, grades, all of it. And that's good. I like it that way. Knowing that we have a sort of "routine" is comforting. Just like my tattered quilt I use daily. It brings comfort. It's been spilled on, puked on (sorry), rolled up, rolled out, used as a tent, a fort and just a plain old snuggle blanket. Its blue and in its day--it was beautiful. It was once meant for a bed, but now is being repurposed for more personal use.

         As I mentioned before, I am prepping for two retreats this fall. They are closing in on me, and I'm getting excited. Giddy. I LOVE this kind of thing. One of them is titled "Repurposed." I find myself smack dab in the middle of that word all the time. Searching for purpose and wondering if I'm living it. Who doesn't? Our "usefulness" changes. The varying seasons of our lives are always "changing."

         Recently, I reconnected with a friend here in town. Her name is Connie. I'm not actually sure just how we met, but I'm assuming sometime 10 years ago when I transplanted to our little town. Her husband Dale has a salon, here in town, that I've been going to for some time now. Anywho...

         Connie started a little side business that is growing. And growing. Ironically? It's called
"The MUSTARD Seed." Just like our faith. Just like the scripture teaches. Her amazingly fun job is taking "old" furniture and décor, and making it "new." I'm all about that kind of thing. It ads richness. Value. Character and class. Want to take a peak? Lets do....

 

 

How darling is that? Plus...she's ramping up for the Holidays!

New stuff gets added daily. Locals: GO.CHECK.OUT.HER.STORE.

 

415 N. Pennsylvania 

 

Her displays, centerpieces, frames, all of it are a PERFECT reminder of how dreams, with mustard seed-like faith can grow. The changes? For the good. Repurposing.

 

 Sometimes it takes just the right person to see the good in something, and have just the right touch to bring it out. Or encourage a person to live it out.

Much like us. Our fragile hearts. Our souls. And every now and then, we get to see our faith grow. And when tended to, cared for, and repurposed, by The One who can call out the good in us--we get to see mountains move.

 

Thanks for chatting with me today.

-Erin

Vacation...

It's day three into our vacation and I am finally winding down. I mean, REALLY, finally relaxing.  Pajama's until noon nine, pool time, late night movies, reading, rocking-chair mornings on the front porch, no makeup, lost phones and tons of hilarious moments.

I love family time.

I will post pictures soon. We are literally in the sticks. The WiFi around here is virtually non-existent. The heat probably contributes. Needless to say it makes doing any kind of business difficult.

102+ every day. Even my clean clothes feel wet. It's a great excuse for the pj's and A\C. Excellent!!!

Tomorrow is out on the boat for the day. Hopefully Libs will hold up. Here in the mountains things are much different. (Much.) Refreshing in a lot of ways. There aren't many young families here where we are, which means Cade and Libbi are getting spoiled rotten by multiple sets of grandparents. Cade was given water skiing lessons (on land) by a woman from Chicago. Tonight in the pool, a sweet lady from St. Louis played with Libbi. They've had such a great time. I think we will be permanently wrinkled from all the water time we have had. Pools, indoor and out, and the beach.

Cade is developing his sense of humor and just getting too big, too fast. It has amazed me at the fun we have as he joins in and sees the humor in the life around him. I LOVE the fact that he loves to laugh-just like his mama. His sister isn't far behind...

Libbi is getting so big. Her personality shows through in so many ways. Tonight we decided to venture into no-mans-land to find a Dairy Queen we thought we had seen on our drive in. With it being later in the evening, close to her bedtime, we decided the drive through would do. As Aaron begins to place our order, she lets off with the loudest jabber\talk we have heard from her yet. With no interpretation, we can only assume she was excited for ice cream. With our melting treats in hand, we were headed back to the resort just as Cade had a spill. While he is busy cleaning with one hand, his other is holding his ice cream dangerously  close to the "center line" between his sister and himself. I hear her sweet voice say, "oh, wow...yes!" As I turn around and look, she takes only the fingertips of her right hand, carefully dips into Cade's ice cream and proceeds to lick off each one. She ends with looking at Cade with a huge smile and saying, "Boom!"
He has met his equal.

I mentioned earlier about the lady in the pool, playing with Libbi. Her and her husband have traveled and seen the world. They are fellow believers and we had a great time visiting with them. We got the impression that they were needing encouragement and as it turned out they blessed us the same. We learned that they are very mission oriented. Their son wrote a homeschool curriculum, and we also learned that they are friends of Kyle Idleman's parents. They even knew of the town I grew up in! (That rarely-if ever-happens).

These fun times remind me of where I am at in life and beg me to ask, "Where do I want to go?" I know that I want to be like the people we met: fun loving and blessing others. After hearing their stories, I realize they didn't get there overnight. I don't want to rush past the spilled ice cream mess and the "accidents" on the floor that were meant for the potty. I want to enjoy midlife-driving a minivan-and use it to make me into the girl that The Lord wants me to be. The girl that I want to be.

I'm thankful for the time here. The mountains. The weather. The laughs. To see the new sights and to take the time to relax. I find myself grateful. Worshiping. Giving thanks to the One who made it all.

Wishing you all a blessed night. Truly.

-Erin

Hello...again!

 

 

I decided to get up and get my workout done early so I could

get on here and share my heart with you.

It was costly.

5:00 am...but worth it. 

 

I "snuck" downstairs for my secluded 40 min.

It is my "sacred place."

 

Don't be jealous, now.

Libbi refused to stay in her play yard, so I opened it up and climbed in.

I included some of my toys as well.

 

(*a note to my photographer friends...the lighting? On purpose. It hid the dust and cobwebs. Feel free to share my idea. If you're kind, I might even let you ride on that slick little roller coaster to the right. I'm not really to a place where I'd feel comfortable with a photo sessions giveaway, so the coaster ride will have to do. I'll even throw in the "box fan breeze" for an added treat.) *smile*

 

 

These kids mess me up in the best way possible.

For real.

Every day is a challenge (a good one). A call. Not a "call out" but a "call up." To be a better mom. Wife. Friend. Sister. Daughter. Pastors wife.

I'm not going to lie. It isn't easy.

But it's worth it. Just. Look. At. Those. Faces.

 



 

These papers are priceless to me.

The first? 14 weeks with my trainer. Blood, sweat and tears. Reminding me of where I've come from, and where I'm going. Stronger. Leaner. Everyday.

 

Below that is my "love" note from Libbi. I have a Bible cover now to match.

Priceless. Just like her sweet self.

 

 

(Wow these IPhone uploads are #blurry)

 

As I mentioned earlier, we have a big girl in the house now...

 

 

Her brother is growing just as fast!

He is learning so much this year. Character. Perseverance. Patience. Forgiveness.

Though I hate to see him hurt, I watch from the front row

as this man-child grows and begins to apply everything we've tried to instill.

It truly is a gift. #Hiswordneverfails

 

 

As our school year was quickly approaching, I decided on a last minute curriculum change.

Not knowing what to expect, I dove in head first through countless reviews, phone calls, and finally decided to do a placement test. It covered the five core subjects. He passed...right through to 4th grade.

I was stunned. And so proud. He loves to learn and it is paying off.

 

As I mentioned before, these guys have my heart. Most of it anyway. Aaron's in there too! *smile*

 

May this day find you blessed.

Breathe deep.

Push the incline up just one more %. Do one more rep.

Spend just 60 seconds more, mentioning every name you can think of before the One who can pull the plug on the worry that keeps you awake and weighs you down.

He could stop time if He wanted to. And better yet, who is already in tomorrow.

You got this...when you've got Him.

Stay the course, friend.

 

And until we chat again, here is my "Hello"...again!

 

 

 

 

 

 

HELLO!

I'm back.
I'm ready to write after a long (and much needed) hiatus. I've missed this. Just to type this feels just, well, exciting!

I took the summer off to regroup and digest the summer: slow and steady. I realized that I needed that time to continue staying flush with plumb line.

I cannot write another minute until I tell you about the most precious little nephew that arrived today!!! Wesley Coy impressed us all with his adorable cute self. I can hardly stand it that I live so far away! His sweet little face just melts his aunt Erin's heart. I'm pretty sure that he will love me more than Alison (my sister), but lets keep that between us. He is perfect. We are absolutely in love and I could not be happier for my brother Eric and his sweet bride, Kerri. Great job, mom and dad! Thanks for letting us dote on your sweet little boy!

Speaking of sweet kiddos, Cade is getting ready to begin school. I remember post-partum hormones; tears; and memories of dreading his first day of school. Now he is in the 3rd grade. How does that happen?

Libbi? She is using the big girl potty. I know. This house will not know what to do without its trail of diapers and wipes. I may break into song and dance. Repeatedly.

Aaron is doing such a great job at the church, his job, and being a great dad and spouse! He is constantly striving for excellence and goodwill towards men. He's a stud...and ladies, he is taken.

I am doing well. Health is doing great. I had a bit of a scare as my liver enzymes came back elevated. I have a new oncologist and he ran additional tests, all coming back normal. I'm thankful. So incredibly thankful. I am now on a six month check up schedule. I cannot tell you how good that feels. Finagling childcare and appointments gets old--quickly.
I'm writing again. Bits and pieces here and there. Contemplating another book. Preparing for two retreats this fall, back to back. I would appreciate your prayers as I assemble each session.

We are looking forward to taking some much needed vacations this fall/winter. Hoping to see some of your beautiful faces this year as we make our rounds. So few words can describe how thankful we are for friends like you. Your love, support, and a verbal spanking now and then to keep us on track.

That is pretty much a glimpse into our lives as we catch up. I would love to stay longer, but this girl needs to turn in. Worship practice comes early on Sundays, but I wanted to stop by and say Hello!

Blessings, Erin

Two more to review...

As I promised, here are my latest books I've read, given to me by Bethany Publishing in exchange for a review. I know I could sound like a broken record here, but seriously, I've REALLY enjoyed these two titles. They came one day apart, but thankfully, I love to read.

                                                     
                                                     UNDETECTED By Dee Henderson

With this being my first book from this author, I wasn't sure what to expect. 

I was fascinated with what I learned about the Navy-life aboard a Submarine.
Navigating the deep waters of military life, Mark Bishop plays a worthy hero whose heart is moving forward after the untimely death of his wife. His take control attitude guides him well in his job as a Navy Commander, as well as in his personal life.

Things get interesting when his best friends "little sister" arrives on base before her brother returns from sea. Fortunately for Gina, Mark is able to step in and help her adjust to life. Her life. That is anything but normal. Leading ocean science research projects has been her passion. But her God-given ability--her mind/genius--often causes her great difficulty in getting what she wants most in life. Normal. Does it even exist? Pushing all her frustrations aside, Gina dives into her work and finds what could be the most exciting and dangerous breakthrough her research has turned up yet.

I look forward to reading more from Henderson. Her plots are very well thought out and have characters that are very "real" and love able. I look forward to reading more from her! I highly recommend it!

 

 

 

A MOMENT IN TIME by Tracie Peterson

 

A charming historical novel, set back in the western era. I loved the story line.
The main character Alice is running. Running from her past, her memories and her fears. She finds solace at a ranch near Dallas, TX.

Her scars, though never quite concealed, seem to draw unwanted attention everywhere she goes. People asking her questions, and the ever present man lurking in the shadows. Waiting. Watching.

With the new start, and wide open spaces, Alice is sure she is seeing big blue skies for the first time. Until her troubles follow her, and show up in the most frustrating places.

Such a relevant story to us today. No matter how far we run, our troubles will follow until we face them, and turn them over into the capable hands of the Lord. Having not read from this series before, I quickly looked up other titles to follow this story, and learn more about this author. I loved it!

It's June...already...

How May came and went and June fell upon us, I shall never know.

This past day has been spent cleaning up mess after mess, created (lovingly) by a sweet little girl who is getting far too big for her britches. Seriously. She crawled out of her crib last night. I found her dangling by her hands off the side of her baby bed this morning, so out came the toddler transition-- out of the same bed. That girl is determined to grow up! Nothing is too big for her, and if her big brother does it--well, so should she!

Speaking of Cade; he began his third year of swim lessons. He hates them, until he's there and then tells me just how much he LOVES it. He says that a lot. About Piano Lessons, Cub Scouts, Golf--though he rarely complains about that, and then of course there is the chores...but I'll take every bit of it. We are learning too.

Aaron is getting ready to go back into seminary. Yes, we needed that one-more-thing. (Ha, Ha) We have been reorganizing our lives (as if that is even possible) to absorb this new change. Several things went by the wayside, and others came just a bit more into focus. He is very excited.

Our projects have dwindled down and I am thrilled. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE me a good project. Especially a refinishing one. However, I'm ready for a break. We are a week(-ish) out from completing our pool install. 27ft. around didn't look that big all rolled up...=)

This week marks my 3 year milestone. Ironically, I've spent the last two months re-establishing with new physicians as they have moved, retired, or changed vocations. Yes, my oncologist changed as well and then I should mention that they lost my records. Again. Perhaps a fresh start is just the thing! =) Lord willing I will still be in remission. I am grateful.

I'm thankful to all of you who have read, are reading or have purchased my book. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart, you have blessed me. If you get the chance to review it on Amazon.com, or Barnes and Noble, please do! I'd love to hear from you!

I've continued to write, though mostly in my head. I'm also prepping for another couple of women's retreats coming up in the fall. I am so excited. Some days I can hardly believe that the Lord would allow me to leave these four walls and be among women who encourage me and build me up. Diapers and spilled Cheerios can only get you so far. I'm telling you--He (the Lord) is far better to us than we deserve.

I need to retire for the night, but sending out my thoughts and prayers in your direction tonight.

-Erin

Reviews...

Good morning! I just realized that a couple of my book reviews never published...my sincere apologies to Bethany House Publishing. Please note, the following reviews are my opinion alone. I was given these books via the Publisher in exchange for a review. So here they are again...

1) "Get Your Teenager Talking" by Jonathan McKee

      In his book, Get Your Teenager Talking, Mr. McKee gives 180 conversation starters. While not having a teen aged child of my own, I found his book insightful, and refreshing. I believe this would pair well with scripture to any youth worker, parent or pastor seeking to find ways to reach teens.

      The easy format makes this book very manageable and a great reference. I highly recommend it!

2) "Shadow Hand" by Anne Elizabeth Stengl

      I was completely lost in this book...until I realized it was not the first of a series, but about the eighth! I loved it. It puts me in mind of The Lord of the Rings type--book.
I felt the author did an excellent job of drawing parallels from the past that echo hauntingly to present day. Her imaginative plot (I'm not giving it away) draws you in, and sets you to thinking about Idols, false teachings, and the Truth of Gods word and the freedom therein. It's costly, as the heroine finds out, and compels the reader to seek truth. Well done! I'll be purchasing the other books in this exciting series!

What a weekend!!!

Amazing!
I am finally getting things into order after a long weekend away. I am incredibly thankful for all the help that was given Aaron, Cade, Libbi, and I! Thank you, thank you!!!!

This past weekend, I spent time in upper MI., speaking at a womens convention. On top of that, my book was released as well! Yes, it was a huge day for us...exhausting too! (Emotionally)

I did not get sick on stage or anything! Thank you for your prayers!

Rachelle (BFF) was able to come with me and we had a blast! Road trip, and girl chit chat! What could be better? They treated us like queens...literally! It was fun and such an honor! To bring the word to these ladies who love the word...nothing better! We had great praise and worship, and ministry time through prayer, too!

I will upload pictures from the weekend as soon as I get on my home computer, the Kindle only does so much! =)

I have heard from many of you who have purchased my book. Thank you. Seriously, I have cried tears of thankfulness for your support, and prayers that have literally been carrying us these three years. You are truly the best!

Just letting you know I am still alive!

Love, Erin

PS: If you would like a book, you can order through Amazon, contact the publisher (AJoyin Publishing), or through me via email: aleighshafer@aol.com

PS2: If you have already purchased one, would you please do me a favor and go online to review it on Amazon? You just have to have an account with them to write a review (Go to "my account" and search the title name.)

PS3: Lastly, yes...I will give signatures. =)

Good Morning!

Yes, indeed it is...a good morning!

I'm sitting this morning, with coffee in hand, waiting for my best friend. She's coming for a short visit before she goes to work. Cade is spread out on the floor, finishing up his schoolwork, yes for the year. Aaron has long since left for work. Libbi, if you can believe it, is STILL asleep.

This week has been completely full: a funeral at church, fun get-togethers with friends, play dates, yard work, cleaning, choosing book covers, and bible study tonight, rolling right into a weekend packed. Lord help me. That's my prayer.

I awoke last night drenched in fear. I was dreaming that for the womens retreat (I'm speaking at in two weeks), I had forgotten my notes and threw-up on stage. Yikes! And then was dreaming that my cancer had come back. While I can understand how nerves, and tiredness can do things to you, I often wonder why we have to fight fear so hard, so much, and all the time. Lord help me. Again I prayed.

With the business of the week and a bad dream stuck in my head, I realized: I haven't been in the Word nor have I been praying like I should have been. There is where I can battle these things with the only weapons we are given to fight the unseen battle that we can at times "feel" going on around us.

Over 365 times, does scripture encourage us not to fear. More than once per day of every year, we can take heart. Spirits lifted. And yes, even have a good morning in spite of what we may feel. Lord help me. He will. He's never left. And he's always near.

If this sounds like you, take heart my friend. I'm praying for you. Will you remember me as well? Through these fears, and when I share in two weeks? Thank you, so very much! (In advance)

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed (changed in form) by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2

The Libbi-girl is up. Saying "oh, wow! Wow!" She too is experiencing a good morning. Hallelujah-a word that means the highest praise, is what I'm singing today. Prepping for today's work, yes...today is going to be a good day!

Between Heaven and Earth....my personal review.

        When you read a title like this, you might be tempted to wonder 1) who is writing, and 2) of what experience makes this author credible to write such a thing?

        I was offered this book in exchange for a review on my blog. I had the opportunity to choose between certain titles. This one intrigued me.

        Between Heaven and Earth...Finding Hope, Courage, and Passion Through a Fresh Vision of Heaven, was written by a man named Steve Berger. It was an excellent read. His perspective is through his own experience, the eyes of a minister/father who's son resides now in his Heavenly home. Not lost, for he was found in Christ long before his home-going.

        Berger, in my opinion, lays out for the reader, a clear and precise view of Heaven as is found only in Scripture. What was my greatest surprise, was that it was short on an "experience" (which is a common trend), and long on the delivering of an excellent challenge: to be so Heavenly minded that your hands and your heart are deeply embedded in the harvest. All around. Wherever you reside.

        While experience is often the best teacher, the biblical challenge of KNOWING Christ, His word, and being able to share is definitely the picture being drawn throughout his book. The wisdom we gain from knowing the Truth is beyond comparison. I'd encourage you to read it. Read it again. Pass it out. He offers a refreshing voice of Hope, Courage and Passion as he and his wife bravely share their deepest grief in "Between Heaven and Earth."

        You will not be disappointed!

Let It Go...

Whew!

This past month has been such a great, relaxing, fast paced month for us!

Aaron was able to participate in a pastors conference in Louisville, KY. He had an amazing time with eight other guys. Louisville, being only hours from my Grandma, the kids and I were able to stay with her for a week. Oh, my goodness! I LOVED every minute of it. It was difficult to leave. There is something about family...something so precious.

The kids are doing well. Libbi is walking/running. Everywhere. All.The.Time. My busy little girl is learning words and climbing furniture. Her current favorites are Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches, Cheese, and crackers of any kind.

Cade is nearing the end of Second Grade. He is flying through his work and learning division, more about writing, and reading in about a 5th grade level. The kid amazes me. He also is working on his manners and obedience. (ugh) He is doing great, and it encourages mom and dad to stay a step ahead. *smile*

Guess what? I told you that I would have some news, and I do! My book is due out in about 6 weeks! EEKKK!!!! I'm excited/scared/terrified/thrilled all at once! Look for some more information soon. I'll hopefully be able to share the cover with you soon. It will be available through the publisher, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble, if you'd like a copy!

I have never been able to just "find a song" that fits my life so closely, so appropriately, and ironically so very close to the book coming out, as I have found in the song "Let it Go" from the movie FROZEN. By now, there are many covers on YouTube, and from other very talented people. My personal favorite is sung by Lexi Walker. (I'll include the video at the end.)

 

The snow glows white on the mountain tonight,

not a footprint to be seen.

A kingdom of isolation and it looks like

I'm the queen

The wind is howling like this swirling storm inside

Couldn't keep it in

Heaven knows I tried.

 

My life hasn't exactly gone "just as planned." While battling through Breast Cancer, I found that there were very isolated areas in my life as I tried to find my identity. I lived, in many ways, exactly how I felt would be appropriate for those around me, or what I imagined a "good Christian girl" should look like.

 

 

Don't let them in don't let them see

Be the good girl you always have to be

Conceal, don't feel, don't let them know.

Well, now they know!

 

Yes, people will know. In my book I've shared my personal struggles: my life, my heart, my dreams. I tried to hold nothing back. Yes, people will know the real me...and for the first time: I'm not afraid. Intimidated? Absolutely. Worried about rejection? The thoughts come and go. I'd be lying if I said they didn't. The past three years and the difficulty in walking them have taught me some priceless lessons. Lessons about loving myself, not hating. Loving others, regardless of how they have hurt me. Forgiveness, letting go of fears, and finding my identity are just a few.

 

It's funny how some distance

Makes everything seem small

And the fears that once controlled me

Can't get to me at all

It's time to see what I can do

To test the limits and break through...

I'm never going back

The past is in the past.

 

The answer is Jesus. It always has been and it always will be. The One and Only. Jesus. Fear has all but crippled me at times. Sucked the life out of me. But it is time to let it go. The fear that controlled me. The perfect life. The preconceived ideas about what my identity was supposed to look like. Where in the world would I be without you, Jesus? He is my identity, my portion. He continually speaks and pours grace out on us. His call to us is "Come." His gift to us is Himself. Perfect love. The most perfect of all love that has the power to cast out fear. Draw near to Him sweet friend, if but just one moment today. Let it go. Let all that you are holding on to, go. Free fall into His arms. It will be OK. I promise.

 

 

 

 



 



 



February!

February- already?

Where has the time gone?

My little girl turned one! ONE!!!

Look at that cutie! She scarfed that cupcake down!!!

I embarked on a makeover of her little table that was handed down from her brother. These things are a dime a dozen at yard sales and the like, but did I research that with Cade? Nope. Shoulda-woulda-coulda. The end.

Since I'm all about pink, I decided to give it a shot. What could it hurt?

 

I purchased the materials at JoAnns. First the cute patterns, then the clear overlay. The chair tops were the most difficult, as the screws and material were no longer reusable. I improvised with Velcro. A lot of it. As for the rest? A stapler and some patience. It certainly isn't perfect, but cuteness loves it and so do I. I had to include one more of her sitting at her table because one shows her hair better and the other-her teeth! Hilarious!

For those that were asking for more information on how to do this, I'd be happy to help with suggestions (though I'm more of a free spirit when it comes to these projects)...feel free to email me! My contact is up on the right side of my blog page.

 

Wishing you and yours a happy day!