Endure

For the girl who prefers post-it notes over Evernote...I decided I would try and organize a few thoughts here.

This past weekend I ran my first 5k. Since then I have been thinking of the many parallels between physical and spiritual running. I realize for many this will not be a new idea, but for me, the non/anti-runner, this was the first time I could actually see the similarities. For the past year and a half I have felt overwhelmed more times than not at trying to keep up with the pace of life. And...clearly, life was winning!

This weekend I was reminded that I prefer sprinting over cross-country and my competitive spirit desires to finish first rather than simply finishing well. Although I prepared for my 5k with one run the week before, as I crossed the finish line there was a little disappointment that I wasn't first. Ridiculous, I know! So, most of the time if I know there is a high possibility that I will not win, I would rather not participate. I think this is so true for my walk with Jesus, as well. It is easy for me to sit paralyzed by fear, pride and trying to people please, instead of walking forward in confidence of what I know to be true. I want to sprint instead of enjoying the fruits of endurance. And too often the weight of defeat leads to apathy or me trying to white-knuckle my way through each day, instead of resting in His promise to be faithful. I know that sanctification (becoming more like Jesus) is not a sprint...it is a long process that requires an action from me, so, whether that is patiently waiting, studying His word, praying, serving and seeking Him in the dishes & laundry...He is making me more like Him in the midst of it all. Thankfully His grace allows an imperfect sinner to play a part in the story He his writing and it has nothing to do with me. Praying that alone will continue to motivate me (us) to press in and trust that He truly is working all of this for His glory and my (our) joy!

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it." 2 Corinthians 9:24

"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Phillippians 3:14

Praying that despite our circumstances today, He will be glorified through us!
Kim

Merry Christmas

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love.

Have you ever put thought into how you celebrate certain holidays? Honestly, until a few years ago, I didn't. However, that all changed after reading Noel Piper's, "Treasuring God in Our Traditions." I started to question my motive behind what and how my family celebrated and it has stirred me to create ways to point my children to Christ in our everyday, but also during holidays.

So...it's February and this is how I decided to take the focus off of cupid & onto Jesus. I made our "Love Tree" out of branches from our backyard (the boys helped collect these...after first using them as swords, of course), a vase and some raffia. **Side note, this is a tree of all seasons...November: Thankful Tree, December: Advent Tree, February: Love Tree and then it will become our Lent Tree.

Then I cut out 29 hearts, laminated them (small step to help salvage these for years to come) and punched a hole in each of them. Then, simply wrote the verse reference on each heart because I want the boys to practice "book-chapter-verse" and how to navigate the Bible. Voila! You have a "Love Tree."

Several have asked me which verses I used, so, here is my list:

1. 1 John 4:19

2. Deuteronomy 6:5

3. Leviticus 19:18

4. Proverbs 3:11-12

5. Psalm 136:8

6. Psalm 143:8

7. Hosea 11:1 and 4

8. Matthew 5:44

9. Matthew 22:36-38

10. Mark 10:14 and 16

11. John 3:16

12. John 15:9

13. John 15:12

14. Romans 5:8

15. Romans 8:38-39

16. 1 Corinthians 13:4-13

17. 2 Corinthians 5:21

18. Galatians 5:22

19. Ephesians 5:2

20. Colossians 3:12

21. 2 Thessalonians 3:5

22. 1 Timothy 6:11

23. Titus 3:4-7

24. Hebrews 10:23-24

25. 1 John 2:4-6

26. 1 John 3:16

27. 1 John 4:18

28. 2 John 1:6

29. Psalm 100

And our memory verse for the month is 1 John 4:19:

"We love because He first loved us."

Blessings,

Kim

First Trimester

Most of you know that we are expecting an addition to our family. The journey thus far has been bittersweet. Honestly, when we first found out my heart rejoiced at the thought of a little life being knitted together inside of me, but my heart also broke for those that walk the road of loss and infertility. Therefore, we trust that although we do not understand all His ways, there is comfort in knowing He is a good God, who does as He pleases, for His glory and our joy.

This week marks our last week of the first trimester. As much as I'm trying to enjoy everyday of this pregnancy, the past 6 weeks have been brutal! Nausea and vomiting took over my life and consequently, my family's too. I'm not sure what we would have done without the help of our family and friends. Well...I did think about creating a shelf in my pantry for the boys to reach their breakfast and dinner...but talked myself out of it. The prayers, meals, "nausea-relief" gifts and constant encouragement and empathy were so helpful! And...this week has brought much relief, for which I am so very thankful! However, due to antiphospholipid antibodies, the rest of this road is not risk-free. I will continue my daily Lovenox injections and aspirin therapy and pray this little one continues to develop as anticipated.

In other news...Landen and Brooks are excited about having another sibling. Landen thinks we should have a girl because there are already so many boys in our family. And well Brooks, we have just been practicing the word "baby." :)

grateful.

I am grateful for much.

Little things. coffee, a blanket and my bible on a cool, brisk morning (it is texas and we usually get a handful). watching my Landen (Boo) enjoy life through play, music and art and my Brooks (lil' Buddy) exploring his world through his senses...especially taste, right now!

Big things. My husband who loves continually, is gentle and patient...but can be found often wrestling the boys...yes, even Brooks. Sweet friends, our health, shelter, my job and most of all, Salvation and my story.

A few years ago in November, Isaac & I were about to find out that we were expecting #2...only to find out that #2 and #3 would meet Jesus before we would. I am thankful for this season that caused me to question, doubt and cling to Jesus. During this time, I realized my hope can only be found in Jesus. Not in my own desires, including the "plans" I have for my family (like what I think it should look like). So thankful for a God who is wiser than I am and that does what is best for His children! Trusting His provision for my family...and constantly reminding myself of these truths!

I smile today as I watch my boys laugh and stop for a moment to appreciate the story God is writing in this home. Landen is already four and Brooks, almost eight months. I admit...life with two boys is busy and it is easy to get caught up in the passing years. Oh, that I would take in the everyday moments. After all, this story is not my own and only One knows the number of my days.

Grateful for today.

Life with two boys

So far, so good...Isaac & I are adjusting to sleepless nights and Landen has not asked if we can take Baby Brooks back! :)

Brooks is almost 2 weeks old and as of today has new stats...drum roll, please...6 lbs. and 19 in.! Therefore his feedings have gained an extra hour in between one another! (translation**more sleep!) Needless to say, I'm very excited about this accomplishment.

Landen is very excited about his new role in the family, big brother! If Brooks is crying, he likes to comfort him with, "It's okay, Baby Brooks!" Especially at nighttime when he is supposed to be sleeping...you can hear him yell his comforting words across the house. He is such a help and loving all of our visitors! Be prepared, if you visit us, you will more than likely get talked into a competitive game of Candyland.

Landen singing to Brooks...

SOTO '09

This past week we went to family camp at the Shepherd of the Ozarks (SOTO). We had a blast! Time to slow down...relax...and worship our sweet King through song...His word...sweet friends and His beautiful creation that surrounded us!

In the midst of always being on the go there was also time to sit and reflect. One night Trevor Joy encouraged us to share our stories with one another in small group settings. I always get nervous at the thought of sharing my testimony...sweaty, heart pounding anxiety...type of nervous. That night I felt the Lord begin to chisel away at the nervousness....what was behind it? I was reminded of a quote from "Hearts and Minds" by Kenneth Boa and John Alan Turner: "When we are insecure in our identity as children of God, we waste time and energy trying to manage other people's impressions of us." Yuck! I think part of the reason why I have always been uncomfortable with my story was because it indeed was just that, my story! I wanted a different one. So, I wrote down my full story and slowly have begun to embrace it. It revealed a story of being lost and bullied and years of seeking approval from everyone and everything that was around me....everything except the Lord. BUT GOD.... I was amazed at that part of the story...it was nothing that I was seeking at the time and although I've read that a million times and even encouraged others that it is nothing you can "will for yourself," I have never really applied that to my life. So as my story was unfolding before my eyes it was as if I was seeing it for the first time. Praise God that He works all things together for His good...marriage, motherhood, miscarriages, friendships and family camp!

He is so very good.

Here are some of the highlights from our week:

1. Asking Landen if he was having fun at camp and his response..."Almost!" (That was his new word for the week)

2. Canoe trip...such a sweet reminder that His streams of mercy never cease!

3. Mafia!

4. Holding hands with my husband

5. Milkshake the pony, Casper and his carriage & the firetruck rides

6. Ice cream soda shop/pharmacy....is the heirloom pimento cheese supposed to be warm and runny? Yummy Milkshakes....not the pony!

7. Landen chasing Lily and asking "Lily wake up?" most mornings

8. Sweet songs to our King...and the reminder that God is reconciling all things to Himself...and somehow my little life plays a part in His big story!

9. Fireworks...root beer floats....face paint.....and walking back to our cabin in the dark because Landen was terrified of the fireworks

10. Playing in the creek...skipping rocks (almost taking off Isaac's head with my subpar aim)....watching Isaac & Landen go down the lazy river in a tube!

Oh...and being encouraged by the SOTO staff to check our spouses for ticks....funny & awkward at the same time!!

Isaac & Landen at our cabin

Lily & Landen waiting patiently to hold the kitty

Casper and the carriage

Landen in the music store

Pillow fight with Mr. Trevor

Landen and Milkshake

The canoe trip!

The Buffalo River....we did it!!

Cheese!

Our Beginnings...

Well...the title is a little misleading, I suppose. Our beginnings actually began our junior year in highschool. Yes, that's right...I followed my parents' footsteps and married my highschool sweetheart! However....our beginning as husband & wife began in May 2005.

In our short four years of marriage....I have learned so much about myself. It has been quite the refining process and I cannot imagine where I would be without the sweet grace of Jesus! Who knew marriage could reveal so much about a person? A challenging, but beautiful process....sanctification.

Here are a few pictures from our wedding day....

Isaac...I love you and am grateful for this journey I get to share with you! Thanks for loving me...despite me!! :)

Mini Rockstar

Sorry for the delay...life has been a bit busy and the blog took the backseat. However, here I am...for today anyways! :)

Many of you are aware that Isaac & I recently sufferred a miscarriage. We are so very blessed to have each of you in our lives that have prayed and served us well over the past few weeks. Thank you for your friendship and for loving us, even in the pit. The process of grief has been difficult to endure, but I have hope. Hope that the Lord will comfort and heal and this is all for our good and His glory, even though it stings. Here are some lyrics to a beautiful song by Christy Nockels, titled "Glory Baby."

Sweet little baby, it's hard to understand it

'Cause we're hurting, we are hurting

But there is healing, and we know we're stronger people

Through the growing, and in knowing

All things work together for our good

And God works His purposes

Just like He said He would

I can't imagine heaven's lullabies

And what they must sound like

But I will rest in knowing

Heaven is your home

And it's all you'll ever know

So sweet.

And here's my mini rockstar!! I will forewarn you...the lighting is terrible, but I promise it is my son!! After I realized my flash was off, I attempted to get him to do it again, apparently he doesn't perform on command.

Looking on with admiration at Bono...Aunt Andi will be so proud!

Practicing....

Summer Pics

The Countdown

So it begins...the countdown to "Back to School!" Bittersweet!! As much as I love preparing for a new school year, I am sad that my season of "stay at home mom" is coming to an end (for now). Don't get me wrong, I truly enjoy preparing for the new year...new school supplies, decorating the clinic...I love "fresh starts!" I also get giddy when I see the new kindergarten class march into school, some very proud and others crying with a death grip to their parents' legs (these usually spend a great deal in the clinic the first few weeks). However, I will miss the "not so structured" schedule that Landen & I have created! Sleeping in, breakfast in our pjs, playdates, the park, afternoon naps & the joy that radiates from Landen as he runs to the garage when daddy gets home from work! Well, instead of returning to school begrudgingly (you know, kicking and screaming) I am hoping to embrace who I am and where God has me at this time of my life...a child of his, a wife, and a mom who just happens to also be a nurse. Please pray as I know my own efforts will only fail me.



Recently, the women in my small group have been studying Rebekah. It has been rather challenging. My heart's desire is to be a SAHM and often I find myself negotiating with God or trying to take matters into my own hands to make it happen. However, I look at the aftermath of Rebekah's decisions and wonder how different it may have looked if she had simply waited and trusted. So...I find myself praying and looking to women of our past as I try to learn what it looks like to reflect the glory of God in the now.

Grand Opening!!

Need an excuse to venture to Uptown? Visit...Crooked Tree Coffeehouse!!

http://www.uptowndallas.net/Events/Calendar/CROOKED-TREE-COFFEEHOUSE.aspx

Picture update

Sweet times with Avery Grace...

Landen in his swim gear!

Such a stud...

Today was the last day of school...whoo hoo!! The Corsos are ready for summer!!

Just...A Thursday

I have been called out by a few for my blogging hiatus! Things have been a little hectic and therefore, blogging took the backseat. Sorry! A short recap: home group hive, short trip to Wichita Falls for Miss Avery Grace's finalization, Berto's (my brother) 20th birthday, Bryce's (my nephew) 2nd birthday and Avery Grace's dedication...all in the last few weeks. Isaac, Landen & I are blessed to have all you peeps in our lives!

So...what to blog about?!?

My day...a day in the life of a full-time working mom, struggling to find balance....
***Disclaimer...this may bore you!

5:30-
Alarm...and snooze....(so thankful I bathed yesterday afternoon; I can sleep in!)

6:00-
Arise!
Get ready, CHI the hair (early anniversary present), fix breakfast & get Landen's bag ready for school

6:30-
Wake Landen up!...his response, "No, No, No!"
(oh dear, this is off to a not so good start)
Set out his clothes & put him at the table for breakfast.

7:00-
Off to work! (Isaac is taking Landen this morning, so, I'll be on time! )

8:00-
Start the day with the pledges & a moment of silence
(Were you aware the Texas pledge was changed this year?)

9:00-3:30-
See a plethora of ill children! A viral infection has been rampant this week. Be sure to wash your hands...longer than a few seconds....try the ABC song! Favorite visit of the day:"My mom told me to call her after the TAKS test if I wasn't feeling good...and I'm not feeling good" Hmm...here's some advice, do not tell your children to call them IF they do not feel good as you drop them off at school...the IF just became REALITY! OH..and my second favorite, my mom gave me Tylenol this morning BECAUSE I had fever. Are you kidding me?!?

Entertain the idea of doing something as a creative stay-at-home working mom....

3:30-
Head to Target!
This week is teacher appreciation week at Landen's school. Today was "flowers" day. I had a really cute idea...make flower pens (ink pens, attach fake flower with floral tape, display in flower pot with coffee beans), note to self...next time do not fill flower pots with coffee beans before arrival, unless they are secured! You guessed it, one turn and spilled coffee beans! Maybe I'll enjoy the aroma in the morning!?!

4:30-
Pick up Landen!
Deliver the flower pot goods...hopefully they will not notice the dirt that is now mixed in with the coffee beans after I scooped them off of my floor board! Found out Landen had a GREAT day...yes, no biting! (I often enter with hesitance, afraid to find a "Toothy Tale"...a sweet tale about the details of how another child has an imprint of my son's teeth on their body) Landen & I dance in the car to Thriller as we're off to vacuum my car...no more coffee beans! (Thanks to the Schrodts for the Michael Jackson compilation)

5:00-
Get Home!
Unload, give Landen his snack..daddy prepared a gooey PB&J...yummy! start the clothes washer, help prepare dinner (tonight: grilled chicken & a broccoli, grape, red onion, bacon salad) and make chocolate covered strawberries for Landen's teachers.

6:45-
Dinner is served...Landen has started to reach out for me & Isaac's hands when we sit down for dinner as we pray, that little stud! He decides he has finished within about 10 minutes and immediately wants down from his chair. He throws a mini tantrum as Isaac & I finish our dinner. (We used to let him down after he was done, but only to find ourselves in a restaurant with Landen very irritated and confused because he was forced to sit at the table..any suggestions???)

7:20-Isaac is giving Landen a bubble bath and I clean up after dinner

7:45-Read Goodnight Moon, say a prayer & Landen is down for the count!

It is now 8:40 and I'm off to do some laundry and play with Eddie before I read and go to bed..I try to have an early bedtime...10:00 the latest!

Today, I thank Jesus for a hectic daily routine! I praise him that he alone is the author and perfector of life and that through him alone I can stand before him, white as snow...despite me! I also thank him for counseling and that through tears, he is slowly peeling back the layers of the me I have created and revealing to me the core of who I am...the me he created, not the image I have made it!! Sweet Jesus!!

Snip, Snip, Off the Top

Landen's napping...so, I thought I should take the opportunity to finally update!

Exhibit A: Proof of the Nap!

Landen's 1st Haircut!

I think he enjoyed being pampered...just like his daddy!

Per Caroline's request

Here you go, Caroline...

Ten years ago...
I was 17 years old, a junior in high school and just started dating Isaac. Who knew I would be Mrs. Corso...surely not us!

My to do list today...
1. Be productive in the clinic
2. Research salt intake
3. Work out
4. Grocery shopping
5. Dinner
6. Landen's bath

What would I do if I suddenly became a billionaire...
1. Get rid of all existing debt!
2. Change employment...to a stay-at-home mom
3. Give! Bless those around us.

• family
• friends
• the village church
• compassion
• our community, the little town of Sachse!

4. Travel the world.
5. Save.

Three of my bad habits...
1. Putting my cold feet underneath Isaac!
2. Not drinking enough water
3. Making to do lists and not following through (I enjoy making lists!)

Five jobs I've had...
1. Daycare (2's were my fave)
2. Chiropractic office (billing, clerical & therapy assistant)
3. Family Medical Center at Garland (receptionist)
4. Children's Medical Center (RN in the operating room)
5. Currently an elementary school nurse (I'm curious how many of you were "frequent flyers!")

Five things people don't know about me...
1. I can still shop in the children's shoe department. However, this doesn't happen often.

2. I dislike ALL melon!

3. As a child, I would run at the sight of blood or someone choking. My mom is still in awe that I am a nurse.

4. I have a large extended family that ALL live here: 71 of us total.

5. The first time I stepped foot onto Baylor's Waco campus was the day I graduated. This was due to the fact that the nursing program is located in Dallas. Isaac & I may take Landen to homecoming this year. (It would be my first!)


Tag! Sherah, Kristen, Erin, Angie & Steph

Introducing Eddie the Dog.....

Landen has a new friend!

an addition to our family....

Are you asking yourself....are the Corsos pregnant? The answer is no. Next Saturday, we are picking up our sweet puppy!! Poor puppy doesn't have a name, yet. So, for now, puppy will do. The Chiltons boxer, Zoey, gave birth 8 weeks ago. (Click the link for a pic...he's brown & white)

We had a fun weekend....the Bryants' wedding (congrats Cassie and Eric), met our puppy-to-be and spent Sunday afternoon at a park. I am ready for spring weather!

Evidence that we groom ourselves...every once in awhile...and even bathe

Like father, like son....

Our little boy...growing up too fast!

Not sure why kids like swings...they make me nauseous

PS...This post is brought to you by the harrassment of Caroline Mays.

Allergy, Cold, Flu...AHH CHOO!

As we are embarking on another flu season, I thought I would share some info to help differentiate between an allergy, cold and the flu.

Agonizing Allergies
Headaches
Mild fatigue
Stuffy nose and/or sneezing (almost always)
Mild or scratchy sore throat
Mild cough

Treatment: Antihistamines and decongestants (allergy shots, if severe)

Icky Cold
Mild fatigue
Stuffy nose and/or sneezing
Mild to moderate cough and chest discomfort

Treatment: Relief of symptoms (Drink hot liquids, use a cool mist humidifier, steamy showers)

Fierceful Flu (sudden onset of symptoms)
Headache
Body aches
Fatigue (can last 2-3 weeks)
Dry cough
High fever (102-104)
Chest discomfort (can be severe)

Treatment: Amantadine or Rimantadine (anti-viral medications) can be taken within 24 to 48 hours after onset of symptoms. These help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.

Prevention: The #1 way to prevent illness is to wash your hands. (soap and water for 20 seconds...ABC song) Also, stifle your cough with your elbow in lieu of spraying your hands. Your wet and slimy mucus can travel over 100 miles an hour!

Our 1st Trip to the ER

Monday morning at 1:00 am, we awoke to our little guy looking like a platypus. So, off we went to the ER. I was afraid the swelling was about to interfere with his airway. However, the inflammation has gone down and we are hopeful that he is on the road to healing. Thank you for your continued prayers and support! I cannot imagine doing life without our amazing family and friends!