Not Alone In My Pasture

Today began with a squirrel committing suicide in our kiddy pool. I am NOT kidding. Many would have crawled back in bed at that point and don't think I did not consider that as an option. Next, came the sickness of my precious little cocker spaniel. She is 16 years old with re-occurring cancer. She and I have been through a lot together (good and bad). I called our vet who agreed to see her (Macy) at 4pm. During the day I fretted and worried. Actually, I sobbed. I thought I would be faced with putting her to sleep. Worry would be putting it mildly. I am not normally found in this state of mind. My family will tell you, I am the strong one and I pride myself in this roll. God had many lessons to teach me, today.

I could not contain the tears. My vet and the staff have never seen me this way and they have seen me a lot over the years. I cried through Macy's entire visit. Dr. Jordan said, "She is going home with you. She has an intestinal inflammation. We can treat this....I am giving her nausea medicine (shot) and antibiotics." No matter what he said, I cried!  They hugged me, I paid the bill, and left.

Upon leaving, I thought about my day. I worried about Macy's death and lack of presence in my life. I worried about telling Wil, who has grown up with her. I worried about so many things.....I was NOT sure I could live life without her. For now, she will live and cuddle with me. I wasted hours in tears and distress. I asked for prayer and boy am I glad, b/c our Heavenly Father answered in a big way. He answered in more ways than giving Macy more days with us. He reminded me of all the people who care for me....each of you, my facebook friends, and many others. You all rallied to pray for me and my dog. Not just anyone would pray for a dog. I know this to be true. You guys are the best. Family comes in all shapes and sizes. I feel a bit like the cow in the picture. I was in a pasture..feeling alone, today....but I could not see the lucious grass or any of the blessings my Heavenly Father had for me. It was after feeling alone and distraught, I recognized HIS blessings and the gift He has given me through blogging and writing.  I am never alone in my pasture. He is always with me and He has given me many others to journey along side, whether I can see them or not.

Thank you, prayer warriors and friends. I will never be able to tell you how much you mean to me. You come here, time and time again and read the words I have posted. You leave beautiful comments of love and encouragement. Each of you are the LOVE OF CHRIST daily in my life. I praise GOD for you. Thank you all for faithfully being the people HE created you to be. Thank you, most of all for your loving prayers!

With much love, thankfulness of heart, and prayers,

Andrea

Answered Prayer

Even our smallest needs and things others do not deem critical are important to GOD. Many of you know, my Samoyed Nanuq is extremely afraid of thunderstorms. We have tried everything and he is better, but each storm is still a traumatic experience.

Yesterday, I posted on facebook about a storm headed our way. This storm was producing 1 inch size hail, tornado's, 60 mph winds, and lots of rain. Upon reading my post, many offered prayers. This is how our evening went:


The storm approached with a vengeance. Everyone in its path receiving what had been predicted until it came close to our home. As the storm crossed chesterfield county the thunder and lightening diminished. We heard only one small rumble. We received lots of rain and wind, but NO SOUNDS! Nanuq slept through the entire storm! PRAISE GOD!

If anyone asks you today about the power of prayer and it's significance, tell them GOD cares about his animals enough to calm the storms in Chester, Virginia. He tells us to come to HIM with the desires of our heart. If HE cares about me and my dog, then HE most certainly cares about the details in your life, too!

Continuing to storm the heavens,

Andrea

Answered Prayer

Andrea and Payden Hope




































Jen and Payden Hope


















Over a year ago, Doug and I began to pray for my cousin Jennifer and her husband Travis. They desperately wanted a baby. Shortly after being asked to pray our prayers were answered. After a long time of trying "everything" to conceive, GOD answered.

We continued to pray for Payden as she grew and developed inside mommies tummy. On December 26th, GOD revealed this beautiful package of love to us. Payden Hope entered the world healthy and happy!

Last week, I was able to meet Payden face to face. Instantly, I fell in love. My heart rejoiced as I held her, knowing GOD has big plans for this little girl. I will eagerly watch as my new "little" cousin, Payden becomes all GOD created her to be.

Praising GOD,

Andrea