Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Update from the Shuler's posted 1.21.16

Have you taken the time to reflect back on 2015?

I had a sweet time alone with the Lord a few weeks ago reflecting back on 2015 and praying for this new year ahead.  It was a precious time, indeed!  In summarizing 2015, FAITH is the one word that captures it best.  It was a hard, challenging year full of many tests yet I can give thanks for each one because my FAITH in the Father continued to be strengthened during each trial and my trust built in Him in entirely new ways.  Hallelujah to the Lamb!

In looking ahead to the new year, the Lord gave me ONE word for 2016.  *THRIVE*  My tendency during really busy seasons of life (which seems to be the new normal) can be to resort to survival mode.  I am simply surviving instead of THRIVING.  According to the dictionary, THRIVE means to grow and develop well, to flourish, to prosper.

So there you have it, I am focusing on what it practically looks like to THRIVE in 2016 in my daily walk with the Father because as my relationship with Him thrives/flourishes day by day, this overflow will directly impact all other areas/relationships in my life!  Can I get an amen?

Any reflections or focus points you would like to share?


On a different note, the weather has been VERY COLD here lately!  Here are a few updates through pictures!


The cold temperatures have not stopped the men's continued hard work on the property!
 
I am very grateful for all the wood Rance has split and stored in the shed over the past year for heating on these frigid days!

 
Brooke stayed with us last weekend as we continue going through the models (a discipleship study) with her!  Her commitment to the Lord is an encouragement to us!
 
 
 
Jayden is thoroughly enjoying the snow as well as eating it too! His body has no sensor for cold weather.
 
 
Thank you for your love, prayers and continued support for our family!


 

Thursday, January 21, 2016

CHRISTmas memories 2015

Christmas picture dump :)

Hanging with Marla, Devin, Kenleigh, and Nanny is SO fun!  (let's not forget baby Kamdyn that is in the womb as well).  We had a blast spending the Saturday before Christmas together ~ eating, opening presents, putting together gifts, laughing, talking and watching Nanny with her 2 grandbabies!


Nanny is in love :)



 
These two definitely bonded




Nanny got Jayden a 'dum buggy'






 
Our annual family pictures!
Marla & I didn't plan to dress alike either!







 
Rance had the GRAND idea to have our first COUSIN PARTY this year at Christmas at my parents house!  It is so hard to all get together and see one another because this includes extended family but we made it happen and it was a BLAST.  I definitely see this being an annual tradition.  Everyone brought food and then we played a NICE game of dirty santa, if that is possible haha!


 
Jayden LOVES him some Josh!



 
and loves his 'wa-wen (lauren)'

 
Travis & Brittany got Jayden his first toybox!














Our ANNUAL Christmas Eve pictures begin here...






 
Boy loves trying on shoes!




This is a favorite!


















 
Christmas morning was so fun!  Jayden's most said phrase as he opened each gift was "Pa, I need a knife please."






 
His very first TOOL set - which he hasn't stopped playing with since!  He can name every tool from saw, to pipe wrench, to drill, to pliers, to screwdriver, to nail, etc.

















 
He's a BIG fan of his new wheelbarrow!








Our annual cousin pic Christmas morning :)
 




 
And let's not forget the HOT weather on Christmas day and the fact that Jayden wore shorts and played in mud puddles!








 
And that's a wrap!!!