Sunrise

It may be cold outside, but the sun has risen on the Hildebrand family. God has brought us into a new warmer season. To Him be the glory! After much prayer, Ethan is going back to live with his grandmother. It wasn't an easy decision, but we know it is the right decision. We thought when we brought him into our family that he would be with us forever. We know now that wasn't how God planned it. He brought us all through these two years for a reason. My best friend, who knows me about as well as I know myself, called me after hearing this song last week. It says how we feel better than I could ever put into words. Please watch it, and know that whatever trial you are facing WILL come to an end, and God WILL use it to bring you closer to Him. As she says in the song, we can't know the morning if we know not midnight.

I love you all!

Shout to the Lord!

I am a huge American Idol fan. We have watched every season. In fact, every Tuesday the "20's" from our church come hang out and watch. In case you aren't a fan, on Wednesday, they did a show called Idol gives back. At the close of the show, the remaining contestants sang, Shout to the Lord. Let me say that again, they sang SHOUT TO THE LORD! That night they sang my shepherd instead of Jesus, but last night they sang it again and this time sang it the right way! I don't know who made the decision to sing this song, but boy did they get it right! May God get the glory!!! You can go to the website www.americanidol.com and download their performance. Wouldn't it be incredible if that were the most requested download from the show?!

A Trip to the Masters

On Monday, Eric and I and two of our good friends went to the Masters practice round. Golf is REALLY not my thing, but it REALLY is Eric's, so he wanted me to go and experience the Masters with him. That is why I was the only girl with 3 guys. To be totally honest, I was dreading going. I just knew I would be miserable. I knew we would be walking and standing all day watching a game that doesn't interest me in the least. I must say; however, I was pleasantly surprised. Except for it being cold, it really was a fun trip. I am glad I went and now I'm caught up for 20 or 30 years. :) Just kidding, I probably would go again. Here are some pix from the trip.

This guy was parking cars. Does he not look like Randy Jackson?? The guys had to have their picture made with him. He was a good sport!

Here is Augusta National. This is the club house.

Eric could tell you what hole this is, but he isn't here, so you'll just have to guess. :)

Now, even I know who Tiger Woods is. I got several good pictures of him, plus several other guys who's names I do not know. That was pretty cool.

Quote for the Day

There are few days that go by that we don't hear some funny quote in our house - usually from Ella. So, I thought from time to time I would post one and share the joy! :)

Yesterday when I got Ella out of the bathtub, she looked at me and said, "Mommy, did you wash my underpits?" Now, how do you answer that without cracking a smile??

More Than Just a New Look

Yes, it was time for a new look. I said I would be changing it, and quite frankly, I am proud that I was able to go this long with the same look! I am REALLY ready for summer this year for many reasons. I love warm weather and I love it when I am able to pull my flip flops out again after keeping my feet crammed in socks all winter. The Hildebrands have been in a "winter" season for longer than just 3 months. It has been long and hard, but God has been faithful. He's been there keeping us warm through it all. I can't say that I have found joy in every moment, but my faith has been stretched and strengthened more than I could've ever imagined. We all go through times in our lives when we are traveling through a valley. God uses those times to teach us to trust Him. He is giving me glimpses of a new warm season just ahead. So while I wait, I am going to slip on my flip flops, walk with Him and bask in His warmth.

Easter Sunday

We had a wonderful Easter Sunday this year. I love experiencing the wonder of it all through the eyes of my children. For several weeks, part of Maddie's prayer at night would include, "Thank you God for sending Jesus to die on the cross for me." On Easter night, on her own, she changed it to, "Thank you God for letting Jesus rise from the dead!" She has prayed that every night since. Shouldn't we all be that thankful. I want to have a heart of gratitude, even on those days that seem less than joyful!

The Easter Bunny made a stop at our house.

Here they are checking out their loot.

Maddie and Ella waiting for everyone else to get ready.Ethan, Maddie and Ella dressed in their finest, to celebrate our risen King!

He Makes All Things New Again!

Ok, I know, I went all week with only one post and now I'm doing two in one day. But, I thought this was worth it. So many days, I become complacent and take for granted what my savior did for me. On this Good Friday, this video brought it all back into perspective. He really does love us that much, and I am so very thankful that He makes all things new! I hope you all have a very blessed Easter!