Something I pray Emma never loses...

One of the qualities I love about our sweet girl is her amazing compassion! We've noticed this quality in her since the moment she became aware of her surroundings. If she hears a baby crying in the store or on TV, a concerned look comes over her face and she says, "Mommy, that baby is sad. She's crying!" Today we told her Lorelei (her friend) was sick. The same look of concern came on her face and she said "I want to give Lorelei a hug...it'd make her feel better." Then she put up her hand up for a high-five and said "A high-five would make Lorelei feel better...mamma, give Lorelei a high-five?!" Too cute! This concern is not only for friends, but pets as well. Ben took Emma to look at the fish today while grocery shopping. In the tank the bigger fish were chasing the little fish, and Emma again was concerned for their safety.
This is such a great quality that I pray never goes away. Compassion is an amazing gift, shown first and foremost by our Heavenly Father. We need this more in our world, so I pray God will protect our little girl and this gift.

God's Faithfulness in 2008

Looking back at 2008 brings tears to my eyes! God was so faithful to us, even when we doubted and tried fixing things on our own. He provided an amazing job for Jess, where she can be home with Emma more. He opened doors for the band to sign a managment contract. He provided for our monetary needs towards the end of the year, when Ben's job wasn't going well. He even provided the same job twice for Ben, which he's doing now (second shift). We can not help but be AMAZED at how God has worked in our lives. Emma is healthy and growing up so fast...we can't believe she's going to be 3 this year and potentially going to school.

We're excited to see what 2009 will bring...
-The Band is recording their full-length album this weekend in MN!
- We may be able to move because of Ben's job
- We'll probably be able to pay off some debt, if we're smart
- Ben's being used at work...his first day he was able to share his faith...so awesome!

Be praying for us! It's definitely not easy working opposite schedules, so we're praying for some vacation time mid to late summer...don't know where, but something would be awesome! =)

Merry Christmas!

Emma checkin out her digital camera...yeah, it's real...(our landlord got it for her)

Making Birthday cookies for Jesus

Opening presents at Opa and Nana's

Anahi chillin on her fluffy dog

Looking at the art Auntie Em made for Emma

Sharing puzzles w/ Anahi

Gramps giving his little princess yummy's

Opening presents w/ Gramps

Opening presents w/ Grandma

We had a pretty crazy Christmas with traveling! It was great celebrating with everyone though! We are so thankful for our families! We are truly blessed! This year, Ben and I decided not to travel until Christmas afternoon, so we were able to have Christmas morning to ourselves. God was SOOO faithful in providing presents for Emma. (Totally not what Christmas is about...but God cares about the little things!) Most of her presents came from "leftovers" from a Christmas store they had at Harvest for all the families that are hurting with the economy, etc. One of my friends grabbed a bunch of stuff for Emma! It was such an awesome blessing! Then we went to WI and were blessed with all the other gifts given to us. Thanks to everyone! We love you tons!