The story of Rhema Faith's birth

Rhema Faith just turned one today, and I cannot believe how fast time has flown by! She is my third baby, but my first "out-of-hospital" experience. When I found out I was pregnant with her, I was overjoyed by the possibility of having the birth I'd always dreamed of. I started seeing my midwife, Cindi, who I swear is an angel. Seriously, she is an answer to prayer. I have never known of a more giving and caring woman. She helped make the whole pregnancy and birthing experience a breeze.

Rhema was breech the entire pregnancy up until 37wks. I did a ton of exercises (called "spinning babies") as well as saw a chiropractor. I was starting to get concerned right at 37wks when she hadn't flipped yet, and after much prayer, (along with the other stuff I mentioned previously!) in the middle of the night I felt her turn transverse. Then after getting adjusted by the amazing Larissa, my chiro, she flipped all the way head down! But she was posterior, which is also called "sunny side up." Meaning her spine was to my spine. So when pre-labor began on the day I turned 40wks, it was painful back labor. I can't find the picture of it, but while I was stretching trying to get her to turn, and trying to manage the back labor pains, my 2yr old son, Gideon, sat directly in front of me with his guitar, serenading me. He sang one song called "My Dear" by Bethel, that says this:

"You're everything I ever wanted, everything I ever needed. You're everything I ever wanted, everything I ever needed. And I...Looooove you my dear. And I...loooove you my dear, my dear."

Heart=melted. 

One of my favorite moments, that I will cherish forever.

So, back labor continued for two full days. It got so intense the second day, I thought for sure she was coming soon! Then my labor stalled. I was still having Braxton hicks, which were intense at times, but that was it. It was pretty frustrating. Needless to say, I did everything I could to induce labor again. At 41wks plus 1day I went in for another appointment. Cindi and I agreed it would be a good idea to strip my membranes. Pre-labor began within an hour, and continued...all through the night. My mom came over to be with me that evening, in case I needed help with the kids. I called Cindi, and we monitored my contractions, and waited. Cindi commented on how I was laughing, and that I wasn't ready to go in yet. (In my defense, I actually continued to laugh during breaks between contractions. I just can't help it!) When we realized my contractions were slowing down, (from 5 mins apart to 8-10 mins apart.) Cindi suggested I get some sleep. She waited for me at the birth center all night, just in case, though. My mom went home around 2:00am, and I went to bed. However, even though my contractions were further apart, they grew stronger and more intense. I labored in my bed all through the night, and slept between contractions. In the morning I felt like "it was time to go" but didn't want to wake my husband and kids too early...so I let them sleep. Not too much later they all woke up, and I informed my husband he should start getting them ready to go. Cindi called me and asked how I was doing. She wanted me to come in just to check me and see where we were at. So we headed that way. Of course, we stopped at sonic first. ;) That drive was killer. Contractions when everything is still = manageable. Contractions in the car = dying. 

When we got there, my sister and mom were waiting for us, to help with the kids, and be there for me. So thankful for their love and support. Cindi checked me and I will never forget her response:

"Ummm....I can't find your cervix. I'm going to have to stay here for a contraction, to make sure."

After the contraction: "You're fully dilated."

To (my husband) Jeremy: "Call your birth photographer, and tell them they need to hurry." (Thank you Lori!! She was fast!!)

We had a good laugh about it all. Thankfully, my contractions remained 5-8 mins apart, and I was able to really enjoy everything. We turned on my birth playlist, which consisted of all my favorite mellow worship songs. (Mostly Bethel, of course.) 

I got in the tub, and let the water cover my belly with each contraction. It was so soothing.

 At first, I tried to break my own water, by pushing with some contractions. But, when Cindi said she would break my water for me, I was ready. 

After my water broke, the contractions grew closer together (3-5mins apart), and stronger.

 My mom and husband took turns fanning me, and reading my scripture cards aloud. 

At the end of reading through the cards again, Jeremy said a sweet prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to come, to fill us, and to be a part of this moment. I felt the atmosphere change, as the presence of God became heavy on me. (I have to note, the song "You know me" by Bethel was on while I was pushing her out. Such a beautiful soundtrack to this miraculous moment!)

Within about 10 minutes Rhema began her entrance. It took over my body. My body began to involuntarily push her out. It flung me backwards, and I might've gone under the water, if Jeremy hadn't caught me! I got vocal, and kept apologizing for it! I had previously asked for my kids to come in the room for this, but quickly decided that they shouldn't. (Gideon has a hard time seeing me sick or hurt, and I didn't want it to scare him.) I had about 3-5 mins between contractions while pushing, which was a wonderful relief. After the first contraction, she was crowning, but Cindi reassured me that she'd go back up some, but then come back down, so not to worry. Next contraction, and her head was out. Everyone exclaimed, "Oh! She turned!!" I reached down and felt her hair. I couldn't wait to meet her! My hands went numb, and I was afraid I wouldn't be able to grab her.  After three (total) contractions she was completely out. I reached down and pulled her up to my chest. 

I was overwhelmed, and overjoyed! 

She was so perfect! 

She never cried. She just spit out bubbles, and was happy and content just being with me. 

We got to feel her cord stop pulsing, before we cut it. She was measured and weighed. 

8lbs 6oz and 21 inches long. My biggest baby so far! But she was also born later than the others, at 41wks+2days. 

Gideon and Selah were so excited to finally meet their little sister. 

They were waiting just outside of the door, and they all came in just as I was pulling her up, out of the water. Gideon thought it was funny that I was "taking a bath." :)

My momma said a sweet prayer over Rhema and me. 

Then, my mom and sisters took my other two kids (Gideon 2 1/2 and Selah 1 1/2) with them to church since it was Wednesday night. And my husband and I enjoyed the next few hours with our newest blessing. 

I did have some hemorrhaging problems, and passed out. But, my midwife and two other wonderful birth assistants knew just what to do. They took such great care of me. I got some IV fluids, and a shower, and within a couple hours we were all headed home. Same day. We picked up some dinner and cupcakes on our way to the house. My mom dropped the kids off when church was over. And, I got to sleep in my own bed that night, with my husband. It was a blur of an incredible day. We were now a family of five. Crazy. I am forever grateful to God for how very much He has blessed us! 

**Big shout out to my friend Lori Saczynski who left her own (five) children (in trustworthy hands!) and rushed to the birth center to take all of these cherished photos for me! ❤️

***Sorry for the poor quality on the photos.  I'm doing all of this from my phone at 1:00 in the morning while Rhema is nursing! 

Homemade Baby Wipes

Looking for new ways to save some money?  I always am!  Well, if you have little ones in diapers this is something you could try.  Homemade baby wipes!  I. love. them.  I just wish I would've known about them sooner!  They are super easy and cheap!  For $10.00 I can either get 480 Target brand wipes, or 1,236 Bounty DIY wipes.  (Even less if you have a Bounty coupon, or if they're on sale!)   You obviously don't HAVE to spend $10.00 to make them.  I only used that amount because that's what I was spending every two weeks on wipes.  Now using these homemade wipes, I will only have to spend $10.00 every month and a half!  (I have two in diapers, in case you were wondering "WHY SO MANY?!")  I didn't include the wipe solution in the cost, because I used stuff I already have at my house, and I would continue to buy them for those other purposes.  The wipe solution can be as cheap or expensive as you want, depending on what you want in it.  There are several different recipes online if you are interested in using another one, but I went with the most basic. 

Here's what you need: 

• Bounty paper towel roll
• 1 gallon size zip-lock baggy (or old gallon size ice cream tub/container)
• 1 sharp knife
• wipe solution

 Ingredients for wipe solution:

• 1 1/2 cups of warm water
• 1 tablespoon of baby oil (you can substitute with coconut oil, and it works just as well)
• 1 tablespoon of baby bath wash (use whatever you bathe your baby in so that you know it is safe on their skin)
• (optional: you can add a teaspoon of rubbing alcohol if you'd like.  This is meant to keep mold away, but if you are using a scented bath wash they usually have a little bit of alcohol in them, and that will work just as well.)  

Every review or set of instructions I read said that Bounty worked best.  Off brand ones tend to dissolve/fall apart easily.  And, even over the other name brand ones Bounty was preferred.  However, feel free to experiment if you'd like!  I bought this 6 pack for $9.99

(UPDATE: Just bought an 8 pack at Target for $10.49! I heart saving.) 

Take one roll and a sharp knife.  I used a bread knife, but if you have an electric one I'm sure it would work great!

Cut the roll in half, length-wise, making it appear similar to a toilet paper roll.  Store the other half of the roll away for later use.  DON'T FORGET to put the knife away in a safe, out of reach place.  (For all my fellow moms of toddlers.)   ;)

Place one half of the roll in a gallon size zip-lock baggy (or some other seal-able container).  Everyone else I've seen uses a tupperware container of some kind, but nothing I had at home would fit!  And I was NOT about to go buy something just to try this out!  So I improvised.  And it worked beautifully.  :)

Mix your wipe solution together and pour it right on top of the roll, making sure to saturate the entire top.  

Seal it up, and let it set for approx. 3 minutes.

 UPDATE: After you pour the solution on your wipes, if they seem a bit soapy pour another 1/2 cup of water over the wipes for now, and change your measurements for next time.  I had to modify the wipe solution measurements because I don't like them to be soapy or too wet.  If your wipes seem too wet to you, squeeze the excess out in the sink.  Then cut out another 1/2 of each ingredient for next time! The size and style of your roll may vary from what I have, and you just have to find what works for you!

Flip the roll upside down, and let it set another 3 minutes.

Remove the cardboard insert slowly, so that it doesn't tear in pieces.  If it unravels, that's okay, it should still come out just fine.

Now you can pull from the center to dispense the wipes if you wish to leave it in the baggy/container to store it. 

For easy to-go wipes, I put some in a travel wipe case.

Instead of pulling from the center, unwrap the outside of the roll.  Leaving it together (do not tear apart) layer it in your case folding it back and forth.

VOILA!  There is my "lovely" travel case I covered with fabric scraps and an old button!  It dispenses beautifully, just like the store bought wipes!  

Although I do cloth diaper, I have not cared for using cloth wipes yet.  I'm not against them at all...and I don't mind the washing!  But, I am all about getting the job done as conveniently (and with the least amount of stress!) as I can since I have two wiggle worms to change.  Plus, my hubby didn't care for them, and that matters too (at least if I want him to help change diapers)!  I don't know, maybe I'll try the cloth wipes again...someday...maybe. ;)

I hope that I have been able to help someone - ANYONE - out with this!  I would LOVE to know what you think!  If you already do this and have any suggestions, tips, or just wanna share your experience, I wanna hear that too! 

 

...But the greatest of these is CHARITY.

When you hear the word "charity" what comes to mind?  An organization?  A kind deed?  A girl's name? ;)
Dictionary.com gives many definitions for the word charity, however, the origin is derived from Late Latin caritas meaning "generous love", from Latin carus "dear, beloved".


In the bible charity is often times interchangeable with the word "love."  And since yesterday was Valentine's day, I thought it was a great opportunity to talk about what God has been teaching me the past two months  about love.


The English word "love" is quite complex.  The Greek language, though, uses four different words to describe the various types of love.  One of those is the word agape.  Agape is a type of love that is known to be higher than any other form of love.  It is a "God kind" of love; self-less, giving, and devoted.  It says, "I love you because I choose/commit to!"  The Greek word used for charity is - agape.  


Why is it that charity is more often used to speak of benevolence than love?  Shouldn't it be both?  


God has been working a charity type of love deep into my heart and soul.  The more He teaches me about this kind of love, the more I long to express it!  Matthew 10:8 says some very important stuff that Jesus told His followers, and I won't get into it all right now.  But the last part of that verse says this, "freely you have received, freely give."  I want to freely GIVE MORE because I LOVE MORE!  


Now, everyone has their reasons for either liking or disliking Valentine's day.  I, personally, have always enjoyed this holiday.  To me it's a great reason to love more extravagantly than you normally do!  Should you do that more frequently than once a year?  Of course!  But, why not utilize this day set aside to focus on the ones you love?!  Practice charity!


We have started a tradition the past few years of having a family Valentine's dinner.  We usually all go out somewhere together, and just spend time enjoying each other!  My husband and I still exchange Valentines, but we make a point to be our children's Valentines.  I don't ever want them to feel like they have to have a "significant other" in order to have a Valentine, or feel loved on this day!  Also, it's a great way for them to learn how to love with charity! We like to teach our children that you can't just always receive love, you have to give it!  So they made cards for us too, and they gave teddy bears to two of their cousins. :)


So often people get caught up in the commercialization/romance of the holiday.  They expect a date night with their significant other, and they expect to receive a gift.  Why does it have to be all about us?  Or why do we make it special just for grown ups?  I love that my children are a part of this day with us!  They are learning what true love looks like!

Here are a few snapshots of our family's Valentine's day

All of the cards we gave each other, and some pretty roses Jeremy got me. :)

God, I Look to You

I woke up with this song on my heart this morning. It was exactly what I needed to help me through these past few crazy days. It is a fitting song for everyone, but I really felt like it happened to be exactly the prayer I needed for myself and my children. I encourage all of my mommy friends to sing this in those hard times…sing it with your children! (Gideon really likes the “yeah, yeah” part.) :)

I repeat the verse over and over, until it really becomes my heart’s cry to God. Really take in each word as it talks about vision, and wisdom. A few of my prayers on these topics are:

We need vision to see our children how God sees them, and how to specifically pray for them.
We need vision to see each situation the way that God sees it.
We need wisdom to discern proper disciplinary actions when they get into trouble.
We need wisdom to know when/how to teach them, to love them, and to let them explore some independence. (There are SO many more things, but these are just a few.)

While we were singing this, my frustrations melted away, it calmed the children, and the Holy Spirit’s presence tangibly filled our home! And as I lifted my hand, Gideon imitated me, lifting his hand as well! It brings tears to my eyes every time. Our children need to experience God, and they need us to lead them!

Worshiping with my children is something I LOVE to do. Do you do this with your children? What are your thoughts/prayers on these topics? I would love to know!

Kindness that leads to repentance

I may have the ability to react to situations, but naturally don't most of the time. I'm not saying I never react...of course sometimes I do! However, my temperament keeps me from reacting in certain situations.

For instance, I do not do well with confrontation. At all. I always wanted to be that person who told someone off, or stood up to a bully, but I'm just not. Although, I've tried...many times...it never goes well. One of three things inevitably happens, if not ALL three:

1. I break out in hives

2. I cry so much I can barely speak (much less offer a slamin' come-back line, which I always think of later)

3. I just walk away in mid confrontation, because I can't physically handle it.

Instead, I have chosen to use that time that I don't react to let God speak to me, and then in turn RESPOND to the person/situation from a better perspective.

I recently had the opportunity to listen and respond to a former friend. I haven't heard from this person in a long time. In fact, the last time we spoke we were both dealing with anger and hurt. Out of nowhere, they posted something on my Facebook, and it wasn't too positive.

Initially, I was hoping someone else would respond to them for me, and I could just stay out of it! But, then God spoke this to me:

"If my KINDNESS leads you to repentance, what can your kindness do?"

As I pondered these words, He helped me understand this person's perspective. He showed me how to respond in kindness, and even changed my heart towards this individual.

I was excited to see how God used that! After I responded to them, they wrote back an apology. I didn't say anything that sounded upset at all...but they just felt bad. It reminded me of a verse I love, but haven't fully experienced until now.

Romans 12:19-21 NKJV

Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but  rather  give place to wrath; for it is written,  Vengeance  is  Mine, I will repay,  says the Lord. Therefore  If your enemy is hungry, feed him;  If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

My prayer is that we would all stop and listen to God before reacting, so that we may respond with His wisdom.

Have you ever experienced anything like this? What did you do?

Seasons Change

Have you ever felt like a season has over-stayed its welcome? Like an annoying “house guest” that doesn’t get the hint, this summer has been too hot, too long. And, let’s talk about fall! Such a tease. My favorite season of all, doesn’t stick around very long in Florida. Right about now, in the raging, humid heat, I begin to yearn for fall. And every ONCE in a while I catch a cool breeze. When the sun has gone down, and the night begins to peek, I hear it whisper through the trees, “I’m just around the corner.”

God created seasons for a reason. Ecclesiastes says that there is a time/season for everything. They ALL serve their purpose. Seasons in life are the same. Right now, my family is in an interesting, and trying season. God is still so good, and continues to walk us through, even when it seems impossible. So far, every difficult time in this season has left us stronger/more dependant on God. He continues to bless us, even when times seem tough! Even financially. We are in the financial “if it’s not one thing, it’s another” stage. We’ve had about all we can take. Just as we start to get back in control, something else goes wrong.

Just like this summer, this season has over-stayed it’s welcome. I pray everyday for financial freedom. I know that it is the Lord’s desire for us! In fact, he put this desire in my heart! He spoke to me in a dream two-three years ago, and promised financial freedom to me and my family. I am now, more than ever, longing to see that day come quickly. I believe it WILL come…And, every now and then I can hear Him whisper, “It’s just around the corner.”

Love, Twrue Wov

The English language is mysterious, and ever-changing. We use words/phrases for multiple meanings, and it can be so confusing sometimes! Especially when it comes to slang, for example: “Do you mean ‘off the chain’ in a good or bad way? Figurative or literal?” (That was a real conversation, once.) So, it’s no surprise that even the most important words end up getting twisted or confused. My emphasis this time is on “Love” and “Jealousy.”

1 Corinthians 13:4(part C) in some translations says that love “does not envy” and in others it says that love “is not jealous.” Isn’t that the same thing? I have to argue, no. Not according to the way we typically use these words. And, being that there are different ways to use them, I’m going to list their definitions.

Envy - a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another’s advantages, success, possessions, etc.

Jealous - Feeling resentment against someone because of that persons rivalry, success, advantages, etc.

Envy in a relationship deals with one being discontent, and even comparing other relationships to yours. Jealousy in a relationship deals mainly with the feeling of resentment due to rivalry. I, personally, believe they are both awful to have in a relationship, but one is a natural effect of love; jealousy. If you truly love someone, and another person or thing threatens to steal your loved one’s affections, it is natural to become jealous. The Bible also describes love in this way! Many times throughout the Old Testament, God was provoked to jealousy for his people because of their foreign gods.

When studying the Bible, I tend to lean on multiple translations for help in understanding, along with asking for wisdom from the Holy Spirit to guide me as I learn from His word. In this case, where the word “jealous” was used in 1 Cor. in some translations, the Lord showed me that it is not meant how it may seem here. Because, even God’s love is jealous!

1 John 4:16 says that “God is Love.” Which means, He is the ultimate definition for love, true love.