The Macs » Blog

1. Garage Sale
My sister and I had a garage sale this weekend. We have been planning it for several months now, but of course I put off all my organizing and pricing until the two weeks before. It was a lot of work. It was so hot and windy this weekend too. I was beginning to wonder if this garage sale stuff was worth it. But we ended up having lots of fun even though we were sweating like crazy and my ankles were swelling (already?!). We even made some money! Thanks to the sweet friends and family who took time to help us this weekend.

2. Picnic
My grandma called last week and wondered if we could meet them at the park for a picnic. Levi’s cousins came too. Ellie loves to help Levi…she is the “big” cousin. The kids played and then we ate a picnic lunch that my grandma had packed for us. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa. Levi loved our trip to the park!

3. Levi’s New Ride
Some friends of ours sent us home with a new toy for Levi. Let’s just say he thinks it is AWESOME…a four wheeler of his very own. It has a little button that you can push to make it go. I’m sure he will be spending lots of time on his new four wheeler this summer. Borrowed toys from friends are the best!

4. Birthday Party
Lindi from Love the Day asked if she could feature Levi’s birthday party on her beautiful blog. How fun to see all of those pictures again. I loved celebrating Levi turning one. You can see the party feature here. Make sure to look around Love the Day while you are there. Lindi has some awesome party features and ideas. I will definitely be back!



5. 30 Day Challenge
Today is day five of the 30 Day Challenge. How are you doing? I hope you didn’t think that I gave up because of my lack of blogging…the lack of blogging was because of the busy garage sale weekend. I did have to set my alarm extra early on those garage sale days. In the past I would have just made excuses and said the weekend was too busy to squeeze in my quiet time, but it was so good for me to schedule time with the Lord even on those busy days. I think weekends are the hardest…when Joel is around more and our schedule is different. It has been a challenge for me to make my time with the Lord a priority even on those days.

If you are wondering what the 30 Day Challenge is you can read all about it here. And feel free to join in even if you are late!

I have a Father’s Day giveaway planned for this week, so check back. Okay, five things is all for tonight. I have to get to bed and get that alarm set for tomorrow!

Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • Amanda - love so many things about this post…

    love the picnic and the tablecloth and that your grandma packed the lunches – SO precious!!

    love that levi loves his new ride! I can’t wait till he gets that button down.

    don’t love that your ankles are swelling already 🙁

    but I do love that I MADE IT – I’m still going strong with the challenge – even through the weekend!!! (which is the hardest for me too)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Stef - love this post, Jess!
    You look so cute pregnant. Cute, in a good way 🙂
    Sorry about your ankles though 🙁

    Thank you for doing the 30 day challenge! I’m so very encouraged by it!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Frenchs - I have found the 30 day challenge so helpful! I’ve also discovered the book The Power of a Praying Wife as a part of it. Life changing!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Mershawn's - I love grandma’s. They are precious. I loved seeing her push Levi on the swing.
    And, yes. Weekends are the hardest for me as far as quiet times go. It bugs me, so I’ve been working on it…ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Marc, Sarah, and Luke - Luke has a 4-wheeler similar to that one…Even though he’s basically outgrown it, he still plays with it daily. Having been through a summer pregnancy — yep — they swell– mine did as soon as it was hot, and they didn’t “deswell” until well after Luke was born 🙂 Stay cool, Jess!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sarah - Our daughter has a four wheeler like that and she loves it as well.

    http://www.thisfarmfamilyslife.blogspot.comReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Niki - I neeeeeed Levi’s cycle shirt! He always has the cutest clothes ever!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Missy Locklear - A weird question: where did you find those vinyl labels on Levi’s cup? 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • lovetheday - Thank you so much dear! I’ve received such great feedback about your party! If you throw another one…send it my way!

    Excited to follow you moving forward!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

So, how did it go today?
I thought of you all as my alarm went off this morning. It was much easier to get my groggy, pregnant behind out of bed knowing that there were so many of you out there to hold me accountable.
Nancy Leigh DeMoss has a prayer in her book, A Place of Quiet Rest, that was my prayer for myself this morning as I began this 30 Day Challenge. It is taken from Psalm 27:4 and I prayed it for the many of you who are seeking God over the next 30 days along with me:
Lord Jesus,You have shown me that only one thing is absolutely necessary, and that is the one thing I want to seek after with all my heart: that I may live in your presence every day of my life, that I may gaze upon Your beauty with a heart of worship and adoration, and that I may learn to know Your heart, Your ways, and Your will. To this supreme purpose I dedicate myself. By Your grace, I will make this the highest priority of my life. Amen.

Today was busy and filled with unexpected things like a runaway dog and a grouchy, teething baby. You know, the things that really aren’t that big of a deal, but when they all pile up you just want to pull your hair out. I was so thankful that I started my day with the Lord this morning because I definitely needed His strength. I am getting ready for a garage sale this weekend (I am trying to “be intentional” and get rid of all of our clutter too) and I have been organizing and pricing my garage sale items all week. Levi has despised loved being stuck inside while his mama is busy pricing away.
I tried to convince him that riding his bike inside is just as fun as riding it outside. He was not so sure about that.
He kept himself busy for a few minutes here and there. But most of the time he was unloading my boxes or trying to steal my pricing stickers. He wanted so badly to help his mama.
He is not very helpful when it comes to preparing for a garage sale, but those monster jammies and crossed baby feet sure are cute!
If I fed him a snack it usually distracted him for a little longer. Good thing he loves to eat so much.
He tried really hard to drink his daddy’s Pepsi too. These were the few happy moments in our day. The rest of the day was pretty rough for this baby boy. His mama was very tired by the time it was bedtime.
Right after Levi’s bath his daddy came home with his truck and a big trailer. Joel has been working long hours planting beans and spraying his fields. Oh my, was he happy when Joel asked him if he wanted to go play on the trailer.
Definitely the highlight of his day. It was like all his grumpiness and sadness was instantly gone. He was SO HAPPY his dad was home.
He ran up and down the trailer…over and over again. Man, if only Joel would have parked that trailer in our driveway earlier today.
He even got to wrestle with his daddy. So, not our best day ever. But I am thankful that I started with a quiet heart today. And I am thankful that I got to watch Levi’s huge smiles and listen to his giggles as he got to spend a few minutes with his daddy tonight before bed. I love watching my boys together.
We made it through the first day! I can’t wait to see what God continues to do in the next 29…and hopefully many more…as we seek a consistent time each day with our Heavenly Father!
If you are late in joining us in the 30 Day Challenge, go ahead and start now! You can read all about it here.
Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • hosting - This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • thailand hotel - This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • technology news - This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Immeasurably More Mama - For the past two days, I’ve done the groggy walk to the living room before my little people wake up. Each morning the Lord has been faithful to speak truth into my heart and give me strength for the day. Enjoying this challenge! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Amanda - I have loved your blog for a long time…but I don’t think I have ever commented. This is a wonderful challange. Thank you for sharing this with us.

    Off topic–Where did you get Levi’s cute tractor t shirt? I have 2 boys and I love that:)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Mommy to Two - Yesterday before nap I read about the 30 day challenge. For once, both my children went down about the same time so I was able to listen to the link you posted and pray and read my Bible. Sadly enough it seemed so foreign but I started craving that one on one time with God. Now don’t get me wrong, I pray “small and simple” prayers through my day. Things like, “Lord please protect my husband as he is on the way to work” or “Lord bless our food” but not good quality time with the Lord.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sarah - I hadn’t originally commented about participating, but I did decide to join in yesterday. Since we only have 1 living child, I’m opting to spend my time during my daughter’s morning nap. I was really blessed by the time! Thanks for encouraging us to do this! Sorry for your rough day, but I’m glad you started it out focussed on the things above!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Jess
    Thank you for your committment to time with our Lord each day. You are a wonderful leader and I admire your faith. I love ready your blog each day.

    On another note (from an old fashioned mama), please be careful in giving Levi whole grapes. They are one of the easy things to get choked on. Slice them in quarters before giving them to little ones. I hope you don’t mind my advice…ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Melissa - I’m doing your challenge. I need it in a bad way!
    So far, I’m 2 for 2!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kristi REDISKE - Ok-day 2 and I did it-thats really an accomplishment for me-HA! I am not a morning person and I usually wake up and turn on fox news and just start my day that way. I think Satan has tried to get me not to read my Bible and get with the Lord first thing in the morning already-but I am not going to be tempted to put it off-I am loving this already-thanks so much for this challenge!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Meggie - I just discovered your blog and I’m going to participate in the challenge as well… just a day late. I’m really looking forward to it but would love a recommendation on a book that would guide my quiet time. Any suggestions? Thanks for sharing this challenge and encouraging others to participate!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Amy Geiser - I had read your challenge when you posted it and had decided to do it also. It came at a good time for me after a hard weekend sitting down and meeting with my parents with whom we have a messy relationship. I am trying so hard to fix it and it hasn’t been going well. I have been trying to read the Bible in a year with the One Year Bible and so I incorporated this into that. It doesn’t make the hard days go away, but it gives me something to think about as I make choices on how to deal with the hard days. Thanks so much for using your blog this way, Jess! I bet you have more people doing this with you than you know!

    Just out of curiosity, are you reading anything particular in the Bible?ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • songskatesang - Things are going well. With Brian’s job loss, it has been such a challenge. I know I will need the Lord’s strength more than ever.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Chrissy @ Boerman Ramblings - i did not do so well yesterday… trying to do better today!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Julie - Jess,
    I found out that my sister reads your blog, and we decided to do the 30 day challenge together.
    Thanks for the encouragement!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • EricaG - First day went very well. The house was so quiet…not usual for a 2-little-boy household. I’ve decided to study Proverbs during this 30 day challenge.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Suesan - I too would love to know where the red tractor shirt is from- thanks!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I would also like to know what people are reading/using as a guide for this special Challenge.

    Love the pictures of Levi, his daddy and the truck!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Grace - My son Jack is the same way when his daddy gets home!He goes into the garage to “play” and watch daddy work. Its so wonderful to have that daddy/son time!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Paige - Hi – I have been reading your blog for a long time but I don’t think I have ever posted. I am a stay-at-home-mom to 3 fabulous boys (14, 12, and 10). I am totally IN on the 30-day challenge – I have been running my life on my own for several months now (and doing a horrible job of it). This morning I got up early and spent time praying over my boys while they were still asleep, then I picked up my prayer journal that I had not touched since March. I felt such peace when I was through. I’m so glad to have this renewed desire to spend morning time with the Lord – thank you!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Lori - Jess-
    I’m joining in on the “thirty day challenge”! Thanks for your guidance.

    Lori Kruse RaileReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennifer - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennifer - Day 3 in the books! BTW…your little boy is SOOOO cute!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Annie - I seriously just LOVE that little boys smile! It brightens my day! (of course in addition to my own little boys smile!!!)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Nicole - My heart just melted when I read this post bc I have a 7 yr old boy and a 1 yr old boy (with a girl sandwiched between) and you just wait. That father-boy bond will just get stronger and stronger…it is a joy to see my oldest get sooo excited when his daddy pulls in after work (because it means throwing the baseball or racing up the street) and my youngest is on my hip saying “da-dee, da-dee” and reaching for him as he gets out of the car. It is a joy to behold. You are so blessed. You will love having two boys. 🙂 Thanks for sharing your life with all of us. I love checking your blog! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • LB - I haven’t left a comment yet – but I’ve been participating in your challenge! Today was day 3 for me. Yesterday, I did it during nap time, but it was still fantastic. Thanks for your inspiration. Your heart and truthful writing is so convicting. I love it!

    PS – I love your blog. I’m an Oklahoma girl, but both my parents grew up as farmer’s kids in KS, so I feel a little connection to you with your KS farming husband. 🙂 We’re actually headed up to KS this weekend for a little family reunion. 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Andrea - I love those pictures of Levi – especially how excited he is to be on the trailer. Praying your devotion time with the Lord will continue to sweet and that He would overwhelm you with His presence. I feel such a strong impression that He LOVES that you are carving out time for Him. 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Ali - wow his hair is really turning light blonde isn’t it? Or is it just the lighting? Anyways, it looks super cute.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tammie - Another boy name for you:) Landry. It sounds cute with Levi. It is my son’s middle name. Caden Landry.
    I have a son Parker Kincaid, who was born Dec. 23 (same age as Levi) and I love to compare how they are growing.
    TammieReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Marianne - Behind on my blog reading, need to check the 30 day challenge. Just had to say that not only are Levi’s crossed feet cute and his jammies rock, but the baby wrist creases are so sweet, I could eat them up!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • House of Collinsworth - I’m a little late on your quest for boy names…but…
    COLE – that would be the first two letters of “Cora” and “Levi”. And it has 4 letters like their names too. :o)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

My theme for this year has been “be intentional”. I knew that one of the areas I really wanted to be intentional in was my daily time with the Lord. If you listened to Nancy Leigh DeMoss’ session, you might remember her saying.
I want my time with my Lord to be the priority of my day. And that is where my struggle lies. There is no substitute to getting into the Word alone, yet I often let other things take priority of my day. I have tried scheduling time during my day to spend in the Word, but it was never consistent. My schedule during the week was different every day. Some days I wouldn’t be home during that time. And more often than not, I would get interrupted or distracted even if I was home. The phone would ring, someone would stop by, my house suddenly needed cleaning, and pretty soon nap time was over. I would get to the end of my day and realize that I hadn’t made time for God. I might try to squeeze it in before bed, but I was so tired by that point that it was more to “check it off the list” than to actually listen and respond to God.

I am not a morning person. I can sleep in like a champ…of course that was much easier before the kiddos arrived. Occasionally I would try to have my quiet time in the morning if it worked out, but it was never a consistent thing. As I studied Isaiah in BSF this year, something clicked for me during one of the lessons. We read Isaiah 50:4,

“He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught.”

Our lecturer challenged us with this question:
Does the Sovereign Lord wake you morning by morning?

Wow. My answer was obviously no. She pointed out that even Jesus started His day this way. He knew He needed to. If Jesus needed to start His day with the Lord, how much more do I need to start my day this way? My strength for the day needs to come from my Sovereign Lord. He is in charge of my day. He knows what is going to happen in the hours ahead. So, of course I would want to start my day by going to Him. She challenged us to spend a little time with the Lord every morning even if it was just fifteen minutes…first thing.

That is when I started setting my alarm every morning before Levi got up. Man that was hard. Especially on the mornings when little Levi decided to sleep in and I could have been sleeping right along with him. And yes, I failed. I failed again and again. I finally feel like this alone time in the morning with the Lord is becoming a consistent part of my day. And I LOVE this time in the mornings. It is the first thing I do. Before turning on my computer, before checking e-mail, before checking on my favorite blogs, before starting a load of laundry, and before I do anything else. I spend time reading the Word and in prayer…for my own heart, for Joel and his day, for Levi and our day ahead, for the sweet little boy growing inside me, and for the many things the Lord brings to my mind. I try to put my agenda at His feet and seek what His agenda for my day might look like. By the time Levi wakes up…which obviously is not exactly the same every day…I feel like my heart is ready for the day. This time in the morning has totally changed how I approach each day.

Now, I am a total perfectionist and rule follower. I get frustrated when someone challenges me to do something a certain way and I fail. I just want to give up all together. Don’t do that! I’m not telling you your time with the Lord has to look a certain way. This time with the Lord will probably look very different for each one of us. But like Nancy Leigh DeMoss said, I am challenging you to schedule this time early in your day. And if you can…try starting your day off alone with the Lord, when your heart is quiet. I think you will be amazed by how it changes your day.

I am so excited for the 38 of you who are joining me in this challenge. How awesome to be encouraging each other to grow closer to the Lord. I am going to be praying for your hearts and for mine…that by the end of these 30 days the Lord will have done a changing work in each one of our lives.

Are you ready? Before tomorrow morning arrives makes sure you:

1. Have a plan…
What will your time alone with the Lord look like? Be prepared.

2. Have a time…
When will you spend time with the Lord? Schedule it and set that alarm!

3. Have a place…
Where will you meet with the Lord? Find a quiet place where you will be alone and the least distracted.

4. Grab a friend…
Encourage someone to join you in this challenge and keep each other accountable!

Nancy Leigh DeMoss said, “What you need for this season and the next is His presence, His wisdom, His guidance.” May we find His presence, His wisdom, and His guidance for this season and the next as we seek Him over the next 30 days.

Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • Pamela - Beautiful challenge. You will never be sorry you started your day with God — even on the ho hum, I’ve read that before days. There’s always more joy in my heard when Christ is first.

    Blessings,
    PamelaReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Luciene Pires - Count me in! I’m one day behind…but very excited with your wonderful challenge!

    Luciene from Brazil!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Miss Harriet. - I am spending tonight really praying that the Lord will direct me in these this month with Him. I am praying for specific passages and areas in my life. Thank you for encouraging me already!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Selena - Please add me as #39 on your roster… I am up for this exciting challenge! Can’t wait to see what the month of June holds as I work extra hard to become closer to our God. Thank you for your love and encouragement although we’ve never met… you are such a shining light for Him. 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • simply365 - I’m in too! I’ve read your blog for awhile now, and I am totally excited by this challenge. It is perfectly timed for me as June is always a busy month as my school year winds down. I’m excited to spend June building a routine of spending time with the Lord first thing!
    -JenReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Heather S - I love your challenge – I’d take you up on it, but I challenged myself to this quite some time ago. I still have the occasional day that it doesn’t happen, or doesn’t look the way I want it to look, but I can say I consistently (not perfectly) get up and begin my day with the Lord. I begin my mornings with a walk to worship music enjoying His creation and offering up thanks to Him. Then I shower and sit in my fave chair and read His word and soak it in. I pray and lift up my requests. Then I close by writing in my thankful journal. I was challenged bu a Bible study last year to spend as much time preparing my heart with the Lord as I did preparing my face for the world. I figured I could handle at least 15 minutes a day – and what do you know? The best days are really the ones I give Him MORE! 🙂 You may regret a lot of decisions you make in this life, but you will never regret this one. Blessings to you!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • A - I’m in, too 🙂 Excited for this challenge!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Mory - Add me too….ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Cindy - Definitely in, Jess! Thanks for the challenge!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Amy - I’m in!! I’ve been feeling…I don’t know, “lost” lately. We recently moved and I’m just not in that “sweet spot” anymore, and I so long to be.

    I’m really looking forward to the fellowship, via computer and prayers, and I’m so anxious to rest in His arms again. Tomorrow morning, 6am (EST), I’ll be joining the rest of you sweet ladies on this blessed journey 🙂 Thanks for the challenge!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • swimac - Count me in. I’m ready~ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • a perfect treasure - I am so excited. Thanks for your inspiration, your nudge… and I just had to share. I hope you don’t mind 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I don’t know you but have followed your blog for some time now… don’t even recall how I found it now! Just wanted to make the written commitment here… count one more in… I need the challenge, encouragement, and am hoping to grow closer to God over this next month. Thanks for the challenge to do this – and, on a side note, your blog is organized so nicely – love it. (:ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Healthy Branscoms - I just found your blog and became a follower! 🙂 Love it! Erin

    http://www.healthybranscoms.comReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Danielle - I’m in for the challenge. I have really been needing something structured like this. And I’m JUST like you…..I WANT to spend my time with the Lord in the morning, but I am constantly amazed at how many things I find to do instead. Then I just get frustrated at myself. Plus the best days are those when I’m in the Word and in prayer before I start the day with my daughter. My perspective all day long is different. Thank you for the extra boost for what I’ve already been wanting to do.

    🙂
    Danielle

    bargerblurbs.blogspot.comReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kelly Ford - I mentioned in my previous comment *which was my 1st ever on your blog even though i read daily :-)* that I’m reading “Crazy Love”. In chapter 4, Francis Chan defines (or rather gives SEVERAL definitions of) a lukewarm Christian. Several struck a cord with me as I read them but one specifically. “Lukewarm Christians are not bothered by their sin”… they do not long to be rescued from their sin, but only from the penalty of their sin.

    I know this is SO true for me. My sin is not “huge” by human standards. Its some pride here, anger there, inability to control my tongue from time to time, etc.

    But tonight I hit a low. An embarrassing low. My 2 year old has been trying me SO much lately with disobeying and being whiney, etc. Well, tonight I lost it completely. Keep in mind that i’m 39 weeks preggo and completely hormonal. This is NO excuse for what i’m sharing, just a part of what helped me get to this “low”.

    I yelled, literally screamed, for my sweet baby girl to stop crying. I popped her on the bottom for it (because that always helps) and plopped her in bed and walked away while she bawled her head off. I was scared to touch her again for fear that I’d shake her or something. (my husband was at baseball tryouts for the h.s. he teaches/coaches at). My flesh wants to justify that I am tired, pregnant, hormonal and being left alone so often so its understandable.

    But the fact is, it is not any of those things that caused me to be so hurtful to my daughter. It is the sin that is within me that I seem to think is “no big deal”. SIN in my life affects more than just me. More than just my relationship with the Lord. It affects my daughter.

    And that breaks my heart.

    So, tonight, i realized just how desperate I am for Jesus to change me. I very much regret the events that took place tonight, but at the same time, i’m so grateful that the Lord is using it to break me.

    I need to be broken.

    Thank you for this challenge. I cant wait to be changed by His Word and to hear how the others joining the challenge will be changed, as well!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Angie - Count me in. I need this.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Melissa - Thank you for this wonderful encouragement, it is always fun to have others to walk alongside:)

    I posted a link to your challenge in my blog to encourage more people to take the challenge and be intentional in meeting with God each and every day in a meaningful way! Thank you 🙂

    http://iwillabsolutelysurrender.blogspot.com/2011/05/devotion-s.htmlReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Allison - This is such a great challenge, and one that I desperately need. I have pushed my relationship with God to the back burner, and I can tell it is affecting me. I plan to join you in the next 30 days with a daily devotion time. I am praying that it will continue for many many days after! 🙂 Thanks!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - me too

    Liz MReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennifer - Me too!! I’m in, i’m in!! I’ve been really needing this. I so relate to what you said at the beginning of this post. I’ve struggled with a consistent quiet time for years. Often going long stretches without it at all. This challenge will do me good! I’m going to post about it on my blog and see if I can get anyone to join me!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • charis - count me in! definitely an area i struggle in too.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kelli Kegley - I’m not sure how I came across your blog, but now I know why! I have been struggling with feeling like my time with God and His word has just been something to check off a list and that is NOT what I want!! Your challenge is just what I needed, so count me in!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Cora Bouch - Hi Jess. I have been away from my computer for a few days (trying to catch-up on house work),but I just read your challenge and I would like to do it as well. I have been feeling the Lord’s tugging on my heart for a long time about this, but I keep pushing it away. Just like you said..making excuses..I have 3 little kids…I homeschool…the house is a mess..I’m tired…BUT the truth is that is all the more reason I should make the Lord my priority! I have 3 little children who are looking to see who this God is I say I love and serve and yet my attitude/moods do not reflect Christ very much these days. I feel so depleated. I am not filling my soul. I am feeding my flesh.
    Thank you for sharing this challenge with all of us.

    CoraReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Caroline Hester - I have been moving across country and behind on your posts, but count me in as well:)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kate - I love this and I’ll be doing it with you. My kids may be watching videos while I do it but it’s a good way to start the day.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • L. Shipp - I’m in! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kristi REDISKE - I am taking the challenge, I needed this so much! The Lord has been so good and faithful to me, I need to be faithful to Him and spend time with Him, and I know He needs to be the start of my day.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • the brokaws - I started this morning. Thanks for the great challenge!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Add me to your 38! =) I have been reading your blog for what seems like forever, yet I do not comment often. Sorry! You are such an encouragement to me. I am a teacher and have 3 young children (2-boy, 4-girl, 6-girl). I feel like we have a lot in commone, and I love your heart!
    Excited about what God is going to do in our lives!
    Love,
    Kristin Amato
    kma0405@bellsouth.netReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kelly and Duane Gibbs - I’m in as well! Thank you for doing this, after just having a baby I have been struggling to make time in my day to spend quiet time with Jesus! This will really help me. I’m starting today and hope to keep up! Thanks again!

    Kelly
    http://lifeat319.blogspot.com/ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennifer - Day 1 in the books! I’m reading through Daniel right now…what a cool guy! Thanks for this!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • sarah @ life {sweet} life - This is EXACTLY where I am right now. Wow, I need this and am so thankful that the Lord prompted you to lead this challenge! I will definitely be participating. Thanks for the encouragement to do something I know I’ve needed to do for far too long.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Boris - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Mommy to Two - This might just be what I need to keep me motivated. So I am joining in today!

    As you said, there is always something that will keep me from having my devotion time with the Lord. By the time the kids are down for a nap (IF they nap at the same time) it is my time to either relax or get things done in the house.

    I need time with God. This year has been especially a struggle more so in my marriage then anything else. I have lost that special time I once had with the Lord and I crave it but have not done anything about it.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • mindibz - I definitely need this. Add me to the group, too!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Lisa - I’m in too, Jess. God bless you for being obedient and sharing your heart. It’s beautiful. You are a daily encouragement to me. I’m sorry I don’t post more often to tell you that. Thanks for the kick in the pants that I needed.
    God’s richest blessings to you and your precious family,
    Lisa from CaliforniaReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Denise - You can add another to your list! I got sidetracked and forgot to RSVP to you. I am doing this for 2 challenges. A girl in my small group is doing the She’s My Sister Bike Tour 2011 and they are doing devotions each day and challenging us to join them as well. Perfect for me 2 accountability groups.

    I really miss BSF for that reason. I was involved in it in different capacities for 11 years.
    Thinking I will start with my word study of disciple! I need it.
    Thank you for sharing your life with us.
    Richest blessings,
    DeniseReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Heather - Jess – This is such an encouragement to me! Count me in!
    -HeatherReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kristina - I’m in, and so excited about this challenge! I definitely need it. I so often allow most everything to take priority over this, and I don’t even have children yet! I started today (although in the afternoon). I plan to do it in the mornings, though.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I hope you don’t mind, this is a little off topic but thought you might enjoy this article: http://www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2006/Feb-26-Sun-2006/living/5987837.htmlReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Josi - I love your challenge. I can soo realate to not making time for the Lord. I’m in. And I sent my sister to your site, and she’s doing the daily devotions as well… So add two to your list.
    And thank you!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Josi - p.s. I hope it’s okay with you.. I also included a link to you, as I briefly outlined my joining your challenge in my blog. http://www.goodlittlelife.blogspot.comReplyCancel

    [Reply]

I love showing you pictures of my sweet babies.
I love talking baby names and nursery ideas.
I love decorating and showing you glimpses around my house.
I love all the details of planning a party.
I love crafting with my friends.
And I love getting so many ideas from all of you talented and creative ladies.

But there is something else that the Lord seems to keep bringing back to the forefront of my thoughts.
Something that I constantly battle to keep a priority.
Something that I am learning and growing in.
Something that is sometimes easier not to talk about…
because I’m guessing, if you are like me,
it is an area that tends to be a daily struggle…
and it is an area that we often tend to feel guilty about.
But something that is far too important to keep to myself.

It has to do with my daily devotional life.
Not so much about whether I am checking my “devotions” off of my daily to-do list, but do I have “devotion” for my Lord? Am I daily cultivating an intimate love relationship with Him?

I’m sure you would agree with me that we are all busy. No matter what stage of life you are in, whether you are married or not, whether you are working outside the home or working from the home, no matter how many kids you have, whether your kids are babies or grown…we are BUSY. And I feel like far too often as I’ve shared this long time struggle of setting aside meaningful time with the Lord and others have shared their similar struggles with me, we make excuses for each other. We sympathize in each others busyness. Especially as young moms. We remind each other that we have small kids at home and it is just about impossible to find time to squeeze in a shower or a meal, let alone time alone with the Lord. I leave those conversations feeling a little better about myself and a little less guilty. I leave continuing to run through the excuses in my head. And yet a few days later I find myself in the same place again. Knowing that I desperately NEED alone time with the Lord every day. I NEED Him to fill that hole in my life that only He can fill. I NEED His strength and wisdom to make it through each day.

Losing Cora has opened my eyes to my desperate need to be connected to my Heavenly Father EVERY DAY. Death and grief challenged me to really get to know this God that I was putting all my hope in through my darkest hours. For me, those times of desperation, drove me to my knees. It wasn’t hard for me to spend time with the Lord because I knew that His strength was the only thing that would get me out of bed and through those days without Cora. Now, more than two years later, God has done and continues to do an incredible healing work in my life. The grief and heartache are still there. I don’t know if I will ever feel completely “normal” again, but my life looks much more “normal” than it did in those initial weeks and months after Cora’s death. As my life returns to a little more of a “normal” stay-at-home mom routine, I find myself slipping back into the same struggles of giving the Lord priority of my time.

A friend sent me a link to a breakout session from the True Woman conference. It is Nancy Leigh DeMoss speaking about our devotional lives. I loved it because I felt like it summarized so many of the things that the Lord has been teaching me over the past several months. If you have a chance today or in the next few days to listen, it is SO worth your time.

In this session Nancy challenges the ladies to a 30-day challenge. So, as summer begins and my schedule changes, I am feeling like this is the perfect time to do my own 30-day challenge. If there are any of you that are needing a little accountability in your own personal devotional life I would love for you to join me.

You will get a much better idea of where I am coming from if you listen to the link above. I am starting my challenge on June 1…I wanted to give you all a few days to listen to the link and consider joining me before I started. There are thirty days in June, so the challenge will be June 1-30. Basically, the challenge is this:

So, what do you think? Anyone want to join me? It will definitely take a little planning and discipline, but it is going to be so worth it. We can do it! I’ll post a little more about the challenge tomorrow…
Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • KAPeterson - Jess – i’m in 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Blueangels - Wow! So the Lord must have put my blog feed up this morning with your post for a purpose. I was JUST talking to my husband about this this morning! We are transitioning out of the military life, and traveling all but 8 days in June for work, weddings, and preparing for our move. We will miss our regular couples small group, women’s Bible study, and all but one Sunday of church 🙁 I was just saying how I will need to find discipline to be in devotion because I know I will be needing the Lord SO much during this transition times in our lives.
    I will be joining you and am excited for this sense of accountability.
    Thanks for such a wonderful place for fellowship.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tara - can’t wait to hear more about it! i’m totally in though.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - count me in! thanks for being you!
    🙂 lindaReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I would love to join the challenge! I have been having a hard time spending time with my Lord as well. Thanks for doing this and posting about it!
    ChristieReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Brandon - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Katie B - Count me in!! Thanks for sharing this 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Erin - This is something that I definitely need, too. My first baby is almost 6 weeks old, so my life has been completely consumed with the transition to being a Momma. I love it, but I need some time with the Lord, and I haven’t gotten that almost at all since Isaiah was born. Even church is hard, because I typically am in the nursing room feeding him during half of the service every week. I will definitely be joining you in this.

    Thanks for sharing your heart and story and for being such an inspiration!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kelly Ford - I am SO in! My walk with the Lord has been so shamefully absent lately. And we are expecting our 2nd child NEXT WEEK! I remember with our 1st feeling this sense of urgency to get my walk with the Lord “on track” (this is the perfectionist in me) b/c after all, our daughter deserves 2 parents who are head over heels in love with the Lord. Who do more than wear a mask. Who are genuine.
    I dont feel that sense of urgency this time, yet my walk with Him is much further than it was at that point in my life, 2 years ago. I often wonder why, but i think that a lot of it has to do with the fact that I’m more laid back in general this go around. I’m grateful for that in some ways… but not feeling desperate for Him in some ways IS desperation. My head and heart are not in the same place. But if i’ve learned anything in the last 30ish years of life, its that my heart deceives and that i must follow what i KNOW to be true.
    So, yes. I’m in. And praying that God will renew a desire for time with Him in my life over this next 30 days.
    ps. i’m reading “crazy love” by Francis Chan right now and this is just such an appropriate challenge! Love the book and would recommend it to anyone who’s interested!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Stef - I love this! I’m in. I feel like this post was meant for me. I’ve been going through the same EXACT thoughts/feelings as you have. I don’t want to say I had the same experience as you, because mine didn’t even come close, but I miscarried at 12 weeks back in April and my experience with being drawn closer to the Lord has been the same. I am filled with awe and wonder at the God of the universe creating my body to carry, to lose, to grieve, to even be joyful in Christ during such a horrible time.
    I want to use this time wisely and really grow from it and have all that God would teach me. So thank you for this. It was such a timely reminder for me!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kate - Im intrigued and going to give it a shot! Thanks.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Thanks Jess for this post! I also struggle with daily devotions. I find that I’m trying to fit it in right before bed and the time is always hurried because I have to finish a ton of things before going to bed. I finished a little earlier the other day and felt like I had “crossed it off my list” and then it struck me as to what I was thinking. I was ashamed – I don’t know if it was conviction or condemnation but either way, I got the point. I’m in too for the June challenge and I am hoping (and I should really be praying) that at the end of the 30 days, a habit will have been formed and I will continue to put this as top priority (it should be anyway).

    Looking forward to this challenge and thank you again for caring about your readers to encourage us in this area too. Blessings to you and your family. And that little Levi – what a beautiful child (dirty fingernails and all).

    Karen in MDReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Elizabeth - I nee to do this – I have been telling myself that I need to spend more time with Jesus soI am definitely in! Thank for you for sharing!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • LibraryGirl62 - I am in! This is such an area of lack in my life and I need it more than ever~thanks for the “kick in the pants”ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Miss Harriet. - This is something that has been heavy on my heart for the last week so when I read your post this morning I knew that the Lord was directing me. I’m in and excited for the challenge! xReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Stacey - I’m in! Looking forward to reading more about it tomorrow!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • a perfect treasure - Love it 🙂 Thanks for the invite!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • January - Just what I needed today! I AM IN!!!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennifer - Jess…I LOVE THIS IDEA!! So in and can’t wait to hear more!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • k and c's mom - YES! I am a teacher and school is out in two days. Yesterday the sermon was on listening to God. The disciples who walked with Jesus on the road to Emmaus said, “Didn’t our hearts burn within us as He talked?” I want to learn to listen to God and hear Him in a way that makes my heart burn even more brightly for Him. I, too, learned to hear God most clearly on a road of loss and grief. I am in, Jess. I am in.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Ali - I’m in like flynn! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • EricaG - I am in as well. My third baby is due on June 30, and your challenge feels like a little “training camp” as I prepare for life to get *very* interesting. Thanks!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • chapinamom - I’m there!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Shannon - I’m in.
    I just found your blog a week or so ago and have spent quite a bit of time reading it and crying over it. You are so right. We need to make time with our Lord first priority and everything else will follow. Thanks for the challenge!

    http://www.talesfromahalfstreet.blogspot.comReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Nancy - I want to do this, I NEED to do this. Count me in!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Katie - Sounds great! I sent it to the ladies in my care group. I am looking forward to the extra grace from God as we start out summer break. I want to have a great time with my children and be unselfish with my time and energy. Intentional communion with the Lord will definitely fuel it! I need His grace!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Chrissy @ Boerman Ramblings - I’m in!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Adrienne - Thank you for posting this. I’m so encouraged by your desire to follow God, and your persistence to humble yourself before the Lord. I’m in on your challenge:)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I need this! Thank youReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Natalie - Can’t wait, I need an incentive and knowing that everyone is working to the same goal is exciting…so I would love to join the challenge!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • amy - love it.
    need it.
    count me in too!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Susan - Wow…this is just perfect timing! I’d love to take the challenge with you.

    My daughter in love showed me your blog recently.

    I’m so glad she did.

    I’ll look forward to getting to know you better and walking along side you now.

    Thanks so much!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • katenicole - I have been reading your blog regularly since the time when Cora first got sick but I have never left a comment. I just had a baby girl 5 months ago and I too have been really struggling to find time to spend with the Lord. I appreciate you sharing this challenge with us and inviting us to all grow closer to God together. I don’t have much accountability even though all my friends and family are christians because like you said everyone is busy and that just seems like an ok excuse to not spend time daily with Him. So I am in and excited to see what God is going to do in the next 30 days! Thank you again! =) ~KatieReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jody - Count me in, Jess!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • k - I’ve followed your blog (through Meg’s) since the start of your second pregnancy.

    You are a beautiful light for Jesus.

    I just wrote on my blog about a month or so ago that I NEED to do this…my goal was 5 minutes a day everyday in the Word.

    Haven’t done so well.

    So, I’m in and will do this with you. 100%
    Kristine (www.babyweiss.blogspot.com)ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Taylor - Sounds like a great idea I’ll try the challenge!
    Also wanted to post my baby name ideas 🙂
    1. Something cute and different like “Briggs”
    2. Something that has Cora’s name in it like “Corban” (it has all the letters of Cora in order)
    3. A family name with a spin…not sure if Joel’s name is acutally Joseph but I like the idea of naming a baby Joseph but calling him “Seph” (the last 4 letters of Joseph or soemthing equally as creative).
    TaylorReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Missy - Count me in! I do an ok job about half the week but then my husband’s day off and the weekend comes and my diligence goes out the window. Looking forward to the challenge this month!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Andy and Cari - a challenge you say? well,i’ve never been one to turn down a challenge. 🙂

    it is funny… just this morning as i was changing diapers, i thought how although my life is full of such blessings and comfort and joys… i was much closer to, and faithful to my walk with Christ then i have been lately. when caden died, when andy had his tumor,i had to cling to HIM. i had to just to breathe.
    now i am struggling to find the same intimacy, i am finishing too many days without time in the word and time with Christ.
    and with BSF over for the summer my daily work and accountability just flew out the window!
    i am ready to work at it… i am ready to feel the closeness again. i am ready for the peace and the joy and the CONTENTMENT that come only from HIM….

    bring it!
    CariReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Brett and Katherine - I’d love to join you in this challenge! Thanks!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jen Bowers - I’m not a mom yet, but still struggle so much with getting up early enough to have quiet time. I know my relationship with the Lord suffers because of this. I read your post and still debated joining. I need the accountability, so I’m in! What an awesome way to use your blog to bring glory to the kingdom.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Angie - I would love to be part of this challenge. My problem in this area is consistency. I used to spend a half hour every morning with the Lord but my schedule changed and now it is sometimes only 10-15 minutes. While that is still okay, I can feel the difference. My soul misses that extended time with my God. 🙂 I need to get back into getting up on time to make this happen. Thanks for creating this challenge. What could be more important?ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • songskatesang - I’m in.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jane - oh jess I would love to join you! I only read this today and its already midday on the 1st june but I will start tomorrow.
    thank you for listening to God’s call to challenge us in this way!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • TimandCeri - Wow, we just had our summer launch at church this weekend. They sent us home with 3 months of reading in a handy book. It was not on the for front of my mind already…. I am going to get up and grab it and put it with my purse. I take a 30 min bus ride every day to work. Challenge accepted, I have no excuse now with something to guide me, and your challenge! Thanks Jess for the even further inspiration.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Amy Tiemeier - I’m in!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Joy of the Day - I’m with you! Thank you for this challenge… I’ve needed this.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Thanks for encouraging us to grow with you.
    Looking forward to what June holds for all of us.
    I’m in!
    Katie TReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Nicoolmama - I am in! Starting today! Wahoo!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Josi - My sister and I are in too.
    I can relate to so much of your experience with devotionsReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Katie - I’m in too!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • mommyof2sons - Count me in!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Michellesayshi - i’m starting a few days late, but count me in, too. Thank you for doing this!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I love this post. I am in! Carrie M.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Faith - its never too late when it involves moments with the Lord! 22 days in, i’m game!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Meghan - I am sooo late to be jumping on board. But I am beginning today. This post is exactly what’s been on my heart! Thank you for the motivation Jess. I’m in.
    meghan
    http://www.mrshein.blogspot.com/ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

Wow. Thanks for all of the name suggestions. If I would have known how helpful you all would be, I would have asked sooner!! We have added some new names to our list. Who knows, maybe one of you will end up helping us name Baby Brother…we like to refer to him as “Eugene” around here (after my dear brother-in-law Loren Eugene). Keep the names coming!
We ended up getting some rain and my farmer husband is oh-so happy. It will really help out his corn. The weather has been crazy though. Rain and tornado warnings one day, beautiful sunshine the next day, and today it is overcast and even a little cold. (Oh man, I am sounding like such a farm girl with all of this weather talk!!) Of course while we are thanking God for the much needed rain around here, we are devastated for the families who have had their lives turned upside down because of the storms. My heart aches as I think of the incredible losses so many are facing. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.
The rain hasn’t kept us inside. We pulled out Levi’s rubber boots and he has wanted to wear them everyday since then. Water and mud are so fun when you are a little boy.
Of course he always has time to stop for a snack. This child NEVER stops eating. And check out those finger nails. How is a mama supposed to keep a farm boy clean?? I think dirty finger nails might just be a part of being a boy in the summer at our house. Don’t worry, I will still bathe him!
Yesterday when it was so nice, we visited Joel at the farm. Levi even got to give the cows a snack. It is so fun to watch Levi becoming such a little boy. He is definitely not a baby anymore. I think there will be lots of fun summer memories ahead. Now if only the “summer” weather could stick around!
Hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!
Make sure to check back next week…
I have been planning a a little challenge for June and I would love for you to join me!
Posted in: Uncategorized
sharepinTweet
Leave a comment

  • Anonymous - I am still just a few years away from getting to be a mom (military wife for now but born and raised on a farm so I know all about the weather and my Dad’s/brother’s obsession with weather channel. We have had too much rain and only 7% of Ohio’s corn has even been planted this year!) and I get SO excited whenever you have a new post. I always daydream while looking at your blog of being a Mommy and having the most adorable babies 🙂 🙂
    My husband even knows all about you and I show him pictures and say, “I can’t wait until we get to post pictures like this!” and often I get all teary eyed with anticipation. But not yet time for us. The husband deploys too often and for too long.
    But keep those CUTE pictures coming! 🙂 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Don’t feel bad about his dirty finger-nails! I have 2 boys and they are 3 and 6. And they live “outdoors” and you should see their nails! 🙂 Yes, boys love dirt and mud! 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Regina - Ahh, as a fellow farm wife, I understand with the weather talk!

    I am glad you got rain, I know what that feeling is like waiting for something to fall from the clouds. And also having 2 boys, it is near impossible to keep them clean- but they have so much fun growing up on a farm!

    Little Levi is too cute- his pictures show what a little character he is!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sarah - As a farmwife myself, I definitely understand the weather talk. Around here though, it is the complete opposite. We are praying for dryer weather. It is almost the first of June and only a third of our corn crop is planted. There are several farmers around here who haven’t even started planting.

    http://www.thisfarmfamilyslife.blogspot.comReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Maisie - Micah Jarrett is adorable with Levi!! What is Levi’s middle name?ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jody - We actually have sunshine scheduled for the whole long weekend! Yeah!!

    Ok, so I’ll share with you my boy names that I’m probably never going to get to use anyways (how hard is it to find a great Christian man with a sense of humor and likes college football?)…lol. I have always like Silas. It was my great-grandfather’s first name. I also like Grayson (Gray) & Hayes, both in honor of Ohio State. I have always liked Carter & Cooper, both which have already been taken by close friends/family. I also like Evan, Nathaniel, Asher, Logan, Cameron, Seth, Moses, Erza, Ezekiel and Elias. If my niece was a boy the name was going to be River.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Michelle - he is one photogenic cute kiddo! I have two boys that are close in age and they are going to have so much fun together! just wait until you find out how much trouble two can get into.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Krystal - He is just too stinking cute! I can hardly stand it!

    I don’t know what other people suggested, but here are some boy names we like.

    Asher (that’s our son’s name. We changed it from Travis when we adopted him because I’m not really a huge fan of Travis.) Gabriel, Isaac, Isaiah, Gideon, Elijah, Joel, and Nathaniel. Obviously, we like biblical names. lol I have a friend naming her baby Declan, which I think is cute, too. Will you tell us the name when you decide or make us wait?!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Diana - Oh my!!! I love this! I have a 10-year-old who was born in Oklahoma, and adopting him meant bringing him to Southern California. I know he was meant for farm days! I love seeing your little Levi and his adventures! Those finger nails just mean more minerals, right? My Ethan can at least still gt dirty, but not quite so well, haha! Love it!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Boccias - Levi’s fingernails made me laugh! Talia is changing so much right now, just like Levi. All of a sudden she can understand so much of what we say and is saying things like “trash”, “bath”, and “help please.”
    I was a little bummed to see everyone keep suggesting Liam as a boy name…that’s the one we love! Looks like it’s really popular. Oh well. I’m excited to hear the name you and Joel choose–it will be perfect!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Beth Ann - My fave boys name: Holden 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Abby C - I think Colton is a cute name!!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennifer @ Studio JRU - These photos are so cute! What an adorable little guy. Love the farm boy nails. 🙂 I have to throw in my favorite boy name from my husband’s… Heydon.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • the breedens - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Jennifer Kay - I have a four year old who just told me “Mom everybody has rain boots except me!?!?!?” He was so upset about it…I see why now, because they look like SO MUCH FUN!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Bethany - Not sure if these names were mentioned yet but I have a Leyton Marc (who was born to Heaven at 39 weeks of pregnancy) and just had Jonah Leyton (named after his big brother) in November. Love the pictures of the rain boots!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Nicole - I love all those sweet pics of your family. And I must say, the dirty fingernails made me very happy. My youngest son, the one yr old, also has dirty fingernails pretty much all the time…Give these boys some dirt, sticks and rocks and they are oh so happy. 🙂 Thanks for sharing!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • The Dukes - I love these pictures and Levi’s little cankles! 😉

    I didn’t read through all the name suggestions that were posted so I hope this isn’t a repeat, but I have always loved Shepherd as a boy’s name. I thought Levi & Shep might sound cute together!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kristi - I love my boy’s name. I saw the cutest little guy on a local (Chicago) telethon for a cancer hosptital. A little blonde sweet little thing who had cancer. Both melted and broke my heart. His name was Miles. I knew right then if I had a boy I wanted to use that name. I think it is different but not weird and works well for a cute boy and then later as a strong man.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Tasha Via - Oh my goodness, I just found your blog…I love it! You look awesome in your preggo pictures:) Your house looks awesome and your blog is so sweet!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • the breedens - We are having another baby this summer and if it was going to be a boy we were going to name him McCormick and call him Mack. Feel free to put that name to good use because we are having another girl! We named her already (Hazel Grace) since I was in the hospital (Wesley Medical Center) for 30 days and so many people were praying for us. So we wanted them to be able to pray for her by name. And we didn’t know what was going to happen next so… Anyhow, while I was in your neck of the woods, I was tempted several times to reach out to you! I thought of you as the ambulance drove me by Newton. 😉 I was coming from Quinter.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Melissa - I have 3 boys, so I understand dirty fingernails. My boys names are Zechariah Jacob, Andrew Patrick and Jonah Matthew. A few more of my fave. boys names are Josiah, Joshua and Caleb. I know with your pick for Levi, whatever you pick will be perfect.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Don, Aimee, Kaitlyn and Kysen - Love Love Love the Broncos shirt! Being from Colorado, he would fit right in with my little guy…we love our Broncos (even if they are not so good right now) and we love having such a good role model (Tim Tebow) on our team!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - I’m going to jump in on the name suggestions. Haven’t read all the previous suggestions, but I have always loved the boy name “Layne”. I knew if I was blessed with a boy, he would have this name. God has blessed me with two girls!! I enjoy your blog and have prayed along with others for your family in the past.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Susan Coish - H Jess….I’m not sure if you routinely do this or not…but I’m wondering if you can post this link on your blog. http://journeyagainstneuroblastoma.blogspot.com/

    This is the story of a little 3 week old boy (Bronson) diagnosed with neuroblastoma at just 4 days old. This boy needs as many prayers as he can get. I don’t know this family personally but they have touched my heart. I know that with the followers of your blog, you have some heavy duty prayer warriors out this and I believe that this mom needs to be encouraged…and this boy needs healing…Thank so much!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Katie B. - I love reading all your updates on your family and little Levi. My Mom found your blog awhile back when you had Cora, and faithfully updated me, and then I started following. We had a Gavin Patrick that passed away when he was almost 5 months. He was born with 2 brain conditions that eventually led to his death. We cherished the time with him–I’m now pregnant with baby #2, and we are naming him Levi Gavin. 🙂 You could always go with Gavin for your baby boy 😉ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sarah D - Levi is so cute! My little guy Adam (16 months born Jan 24) has those same shorts! Wore them yesterday in fact!
    I enjoy reading your blog, so excited for you to have another little boy! Awesome for Levi to have a brother 🙂
    SarahReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Val - Hi Jess! I have been reading your blog for quite a while but have never commented before. I figured I would introduce myself. I’m Val and I have two boys myself (Lane and Reid) and we live in Colorado. I’m originally from Newton,KS. You are such an incredible and strong woman of faith. I admire you a lot!! Congratulations on your second boy. Blessings to you and your family!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - We named our baby Alex and love it.
    Thank you for sharing your life.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kristin - I love the name Landin. It was our boy name for our third (we had a girl), but I love the name. I have also seen it spelled Landen.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Sara - I started following your blog a few months ago and love the pictures you capture. What type of camera do you use?ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Kimberly Canada - Lots of interesting baby names in our family. Our cousins (there are many) have come up with some very interesting ones….

    Boys:
    Kai, Haydn, Nash, Ryker, Colby, Brody, Braxton, Malachai, Joshua, Jacob, Garrett, Dylan, Connor, Stellan, Mason, Sawyer, Turner, Payton, Preston, Eli(jah), Isaac, Chancellor, Chandler, Chad (yes
    there was a CH theme there!)

    Girls: Nyla, Aria, Anabella, Mila, Analeigh, Kiera, Keely, Malory, Emma, Brooklynne, Keanna, Mya, Hazel, Eugenie (pronounced yew- jenn-ay)Charissa, Chantel, Marybeth, Laurajane, Rylan, Layla, Lena.

    My husband’s mom is the eldest of 11 children and there are a TON of cousins. Believe it or not, it is a very close family and we see this group of extended family every few months!!!!

    Kimberly Canada!ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Carla - I just listened to a podcast yesterday on how dirt is very good for the immune system, so feel good about those fingernails momma 🙂

    Just to add my suggestions to the name game (love this game :-)…I love biblical names but I’m guessing you know your way around those so I’ll stick to Irish ones, seeing as you may not hear them from many others 🙂 I love the four letter name thing you have going on so I’ll stick with that too… Finn (means fair), Cian (means ancient) or Dara (means oak).
    I’ll come back to this as I think of more 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Amanda - LOVE these pics. Such a sweet little farmer boy. How fun for him to get to grow up with such adventure.
    I like the name Kamry.ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous - Love the name Logan. Then you would have a Levi and Logan. 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

  • Ali - I like the name Cody, it’s nice and you don’t hear it that often 🙂ReplyCancel

    [Reply]

« PREVIOUS NEXT »