Only By His Strength

Summer Vacation

2009-08-14T00:46:00.000-07:00

2009-03-31T23:04:00.000-07:00

Wow, long time no blogging! Well, we had a fabulous time in California for spring break. We started off March 19th, driving to SR to visit with my brother and sister-in-law. It's hard to believe my big bro is 40!! We had a great time celebrating with friends and family. Our time was too short with Shawn and Jen. Living states apart makes it hard to see one other, so we cherish every second we have together!!
After they flew home I was blessed with visiting many friends and family in the area. It was a time full of reminiscing and making new memories. Then on to Sac to see more friends, and a dear friends wedding. It was beautiful!

Now we are back...getting back into the swing of things.

Some pics from Christmas...

2009-01-13T11:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Papa!!

2009-01-12T18:06:00.000-08:00

Since we couldn't be with our papa on his birthday we sent him some personal email love! I loved how each of the kids made a special card for him. I am so thankful for my dad and what a wonderful role model he has been. Dad, you have really helped out and stepped in to fill some of the gap! We love you!!!

Welcome 2009

2009-01-02T03:12:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's 2009! It was 8years ago today that Ry & I found out we were pregnant with Tayah. I took a pregnancy test while we were at a youth event, grabbed Ry at the stroke of midnight and went outside so we could find out together. I'll never forget that day, it was such an exciting time. Okay, enough of the old times, let's talk about what's new...

I got up this morning, and was able to have some quiet time while the kids slept in, since they were up till 1am bringing in the new year. I've been going through this devotional book, Streams in the Desert. Much of it deals with grief and dry desert times in our lives. Yet, it ALWAYS leaves me smiling. Trusting and knowing God's in control. I know I've got nothing to worry about. Today's entry talked about the hills in our life. Life would be so boring w/o the ups and downs we face. God uses the hills and valleys we face to grow us into the people He desires us to be. My prayer is that as I endure these times, I would always walk through it with Christ leading the way.

Annual Costume Party @ the Vaughans

2008-10-27T12:18:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-27T12:13:00.001-07:00

Busy Friday!

2008-10-26T23:45:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for Ron & Renee coming up and being here for the kids on Friday. It was grandparents day at school for Tay. She loved sharing all about her day with them by her side! For Tate it was Mom's and Muffins in his class. What fun to watch him in action in his classroom. Both the kids are going so well in school. After our busy morning, Tayah then had Talent Day in music. What fun! Watching all the kids show off their talents. Tayah and Gracie sang, "I am a C-H-R-I-S-T-I-A-N." So cute!

Tessa was at Miss Sue's having a BLAST with her friends.

Simpson Reunion

2008-10-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

So this past weekend we went to Redding for my 10 year college reunion! Wow, how time flies by! It was hard to going without Ryan. Simpson is the place where we met, became best friend, and fell in love. Everything about that place has a memory of Ryan tied to it! But my friends and family made it a wonderful weekend with lots of new memories. It was a blast to have of families together, our children playing, and catching up on what's new. I am so blessed by the lifelong friendship that I made in my years at Simpson College.

Time w/the Kostjuk Girls

2008-10-04T22:09:00.001-07:00

PLEASE PRAY FOR THE KOSTJUK FAMILY!!

2008-09-09T16:57:00.000-07:00

I know it's been forever since I have updated my blog. I keep asking myself... where do I start. I missed the whole summer. I will summarize it soon. BUT for now, I just want to ask for your prayers for the beloved Kostjuk Family. Check out their site at ... www.kostjuk5.blogspot.com It is amazing to see God's continued mercy, grace and love that He pours out to those He loves. What a testimony this precious family is!!!

What we did on the 4th & more...

2008-07-09T13:19:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great 4th. We sure did. For me, the 4th is a special day. It's the day Ry and I offically decided to take the next step in our friendship. We'd been best friends for a year, and we both knew if we were going to be "together", it was forever. I had just gotten home from the Ukraine, he surprised me by coming down for a few days to SR. We'd been at Shawn and Jen's for a BBQ. It all began watching the fireworks on Ry's lap at my brother's house 11years ago today! Wow, how does time fly! So, I'm on round 2 now(2yr ann. w/o him), and I must admit, it's gettin a little easier. Now days, I actually have to think... oh yeah...next week would have been... whatever the special memory, anniversary. You get the picture.

Anyways, we had a great weekend. Friday started off with our town parade with friends. Then had the Jansens over for a lunch, and soon headed for Yreka. Swimming with the Laws, and stopped by the Fire Station is see where Darryl works. Tate of course loved the fire trucks! Soon we made it to the Campbells for a family BBQ. Of course we came in to watch the fireworks. It was fun sharing stories with the kids about their daddy and me, and how it all began. They love that! Because we had such a packed day poor Tessa and Tate fell asleep just before the finale. They were so precious.
Sleepovers at Grandpa and gramdma's is always a pleasure. We all LOVE waking up and enjoy visited on the back porch and watching the beautiful wild life that surrounds them. Grandpa Apple Juice is sure right..."It's God's country" at it's best right out your back door.
Saturday we ventured off to Iron Gate with Denny, Tawny, the kids, and friends for a day of boating. What a perfect day. All the kids had blast swimming, playing, tubing, and even learning (or should I say trying) to ski. Tate the youngest one of the bunch (besides Tess) was the only one to truly get up!!! We were sooooo proud! Thanks Denny and Jason, he could've done it without you.
So, then that you've heard it all... here are some pics. Enjoy!

more pics to come... but I have to get ready for swim lessons!

2008-07-04T01:57:00.000-07:00

Surviving the Storms

2008-07-04T00:44:00.000-07:00

This is a post I wanted to write a week ago. I need to just journal more about the what happens in life. Once again, God blew me away! So we had gone to church last Sat. nite. And there was a thunder and lightening as we drove home. (Ironically, the series at church is called Surviving the Storm.) For the first time in a storm like this, the kids were SCARED!!! Tayah was so nervous walking to the car. They were frightened that the lightening was going to "get them". Tearfully, we drove home. I tried to comfort them, explaining what was happening & that we'd read about thunder storms when we got home. That settled Tay down some. But not Tessa, she was really worried once she saw the lightening strike down! She cried out, "Mommy, you can't leave our car out... it'll die! It'll die!" She is too cute!
At home, the kids were asked to go in and get PJ's on, while I cleaned up. Still frightened Tess didn't want to go alone into her room. I was trying to multi-task, and told her she'd be fine. That didn't work. But instead, both of my precious children,(Tayah & Tate) came up behind Tess, both putting their arms around her. And they walked together to their rooms to get dressed for bed. Both verbally and physically comforting her. Saying, "It's okay Tessa, we'll go together, and keep you safe. It'll be okay. We won't leave you." I wish I could of captured that beautiful moment on video. What a picture of love! Surviving Storms in our house can be simple. God provided 2 extra hands for me in that moment. Often times I get frustrated that Ryan isn't here at bedtime. Bedtime used to be done as a team effort. Now, the kids and I have to work as a team. They continually blow me away! God has been so good to give me moments like this where I can see His hand in our lives. He has always provided for whatever the need has been.

So, the kids comforted each other till I had my hands free. We sat down together and learned all about lightening and thunder. They shared about what they learned and church and guess what it was about... Storms and being afraid. How perfect was that in allowing us to parallel our night with the fears the disciples had on the boat in the storm. Plus, Jesus calmed the storm and brought them peace. Just like He did in our home that night!

Pics from our trip to Ca

2008-06-22T14:57:00.001-07:00

SR Father's Day @ Sheppards

2008-06-22T10:10:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T00:34:00.000-07:00

So, Father's Day is a little different in our house. We celebrate Grandpa's Day, since Ryan isn't with us. Yesterday, after Tate tested we were able to celebrate with Grandpa Ron. We had a great dinner out at this awesome BBQ place. YUMMY! Then, tonite we headed down to surprise my dad. Oh, was he surprised as the kids and I creeped up the stairs at 11pm, and suddenly shouted out "Happy Father's Day"!!! He was speechless. We are excited to spend a few days with Papa & Grammy.

Since it is Father's Day, I wanted to give tribute to Ryan...What an AMAZING DAD!

No one could ever replace him. But, God is faithful. He has/will continue to make provisions when there are gaps, as a result of our loss.

God has so richly blessed our lives. Even though Ry is gone. God has not failed us in leaving a void in our lives. Instead He has provided many wonderful, amazing, and Godly men to step in and fill those empty places that we need filled. Ryan had so many close family and friends, each with different gifts, talents, and strengths. I feel like my children are getting to know the character of their father through the different guys that are investing time in my kids. There are no words that can beginning to express my thankfulness, graditude, appreciation, and joy. Thank you for allowing God to use you in blessing me and the kids. God is so good to supply us with the desires of our hearts.

Tate Got His Yellow One Belt!

2008-06-14T08:19:00.001-07:00

Tate has done it again. I was so excited to watch Tate test and get his Yellow One Belt. He did a great job. Here a few pics of him and our instructors...

Tayah's Grad. Pics

2008-06-08T16:48:00.001-07:00

thanks papa

2008-06-08T16:38:00.001-07:00

This is from a few weeks ago. Many of you have heard that my parents came up and my a dad (we helped some), built the kids this awesome playhouse. Because I have an odd shaped backyard we had to separate the structure so it would fit. Then papa made it Bigger and Better to allow for growth and lots of friends. We love it and are so appreciative of it!! THANKS PAPA!!

Papa built us a Playhouse

2008-06-08T16:27:00.001-07:00

Capturing the Memories of Their Youth

2008-06-05T02:39:00.000-07:00

Boy, do my children bring joy to my soul. Tonite we had a family night, showing-off and singing our favorite songs. Tayah and Tate are fabulous at putting on "shows" for others to enjoy. I rarely video these priceless great times. So I hope you enjoy.

Tate used his birthday $$ to buy this new guitar. He wants to learn to play like his grandpa Ron. His new thing when we are listening to the radio is, "Mom, I wrote this on my guitar...don't you like it...it's great, huh." lol I love it!! He is quite a character. Here's one Tate personally wrote...(from the heart and mind of a child).

Sweet Tess unforunate had to participate from her bed. The consequences of disobedience. No fun. For her or me. Sometimes it's so hard to stick to it, when they change their attitude, yet you already told them "no" (in this case it was staying in her room). Follow thru can be such a bummer, yet I am told it WILL pay off in the end. So I do it, because I love them!!! Anyways, I did go into her room and capture this precious moment of her sharing some of her bible verses, or should I say Tate's verses that he's memorized all year and practiced...So Tess too has them all memorized. I love it. Is there anything greater than the sound of our children quoting God's Word? Not to me. I guess the next best thing is to see those words stick, and become part of their actions in the way they live. Okay, it's late and I am beginning to ramble. ENJOY!

Tessa video will not upload, so I will try again on another post.

Campbell happenings in April/May

2008-05-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

BTW~ I wrote this early May & then never posted it.

Ash, I did it! Okay so I'll do a quick catch up of the last month. Lots of fun and exciting things took place...Tate turned 5, Tayah and I got the rare privilege of testing together for our next belt (orange...we're movin right along), before that the kids and I went with friends to watch the filming of an ABC TV show of High School Muscial. The Children's Musical Theatre of Oregon performed this musical last year, and ABC asked if they could gather the cast and be ready in 3 days for them to come film. It was great and fun to be a part of something special in our community. Tayah loved it because she and her best friends, McKenna and Gracie, (who absolutely LOVE HSM) came and they were asked to come down front be in the audience scences. Tayah is so excited because she was told she'll be on TV. Who knows, it could be her movie debut! When she gets older she wants to try out for on of the CMTO productions. Can't you just see Tay acting? I can! My beautiful precious "drama queen". She's too much!

Now you can see what we've been up to lately.

Tate's 5th B-day

2008-05-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe Tate is 5 years old. We had a great time celebrating his special day. On May 1st, Tate invited his buddies from school to come to ABK (a sports center we belong to) for pizza, cupcakes(thanks Amanda) and open gym. They loved running around playing hard. I think their favorite was "the Pit." Running, jumping, & flipping it a pit full of soft sponge-like things. Tate really enjoyed hanging with his friends, and mom enjoyed the easy entertainment.

On Sat. we did a family/friend party at our house. It was a NINJA PARTY! Which was great, since we're all into the martial art thing. For the first time EVER, I actually was ready before the guests arrived. That NEVER NEVER happens. It felt wonderful. I can't believe how nice it is to have things go smoothly. That's rare to procrastinators like myself. Anyways, random tangent... I think the everyone had a great time. I know I did. Plus, afterwards we had my niece and nephew ... and Shauna and the kids all joined us for a slumber party. It was great. 9kids and Shauna and I. Memories. Gotta love 'em.

All in all Tate loved his birth-days. Fun times

2008-04-18T16:54:00.000-07:00

Havin' fun at home! You gotta love lazy dayz! Lately, it's been rare to have a day we can enjoy just being home, so we ALL had a great time playin and wrestling around. Tonite we are headed out to have a Family Date Nite... to see a play. It should be a great time.

2008-04-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

"He's Got the Whole In His Hands" Tate's got the hat on... can you find him?

Smoky Mtn. Kids

2008-04-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

We had a great time last night and enjoyed watching the kids and hearing their wonderful songs and verses they have learned. Tessa loved watching her big sis & bro and cheered them on through whole programs. What a little trooper she is! Although, it wasn't tough makin them look the part of hill-billys... since they are 1/2 hick! Their dad was from the sticks! That's what I loved...he was a good ol' boy!

Tayah and Gracie~ best buds at school

Cutest 'lil' ol' hill-billys ever! Like Tayah's freckles? She did those herself. We had a great time together and were so glad grandma and grandpa could come up to watch. Thanks!

2008-04-04T18:55:00.000-07:00

This past week I have been blessed with the privilege of taking some time to be with the Kostjuk Family. Most of you know the story of Baby Reese. But if not, check out this site... www.kostjuk5.blogspot.com or Ash and Todd on my friends column. Little Reesie is now five months old and still fighting to survive. She's quite the precious gift. Monday Reese had heart surgery, and with each day she is getting a bit better. Her sweet body has been through so much. Everytime I think of her I am reminded of how great our God is and how He holds us in His hands. His plan is perfect even when don't understand what it looks like. I love this little bug. Please pray for her and her family as they endure this long bumpy road.

Who are the Kostjuk's???
Todd, Ashley, Gavin (5), Lexi (3), & Reese (5months)
Well... Ashley and I have been friends since birth (if that can truly happen). Our mom's were best friends, so we had no choice but to become best friends too. hee-hee. Ashley's mom past away from cancer when we were young and I never understood WHY?? But God has mightly used Ashley in my life, especially in the last year. Who would have thought it would be her that would help me with relating to my kids. She knows first hand. God blows me away with how He knows what we need, when we need it.

"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, ...plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." ~ Jeremiah 29:11

Time With Reese

2008-04-04T18:26:00.001-07:00

Michelle, Reese, & I

Mic & Dakota ~ Ash & Lexi

Ashley, Michelle, and I are life long friends. It was such a joy and blessing to be able to see one another this week. God has carried us all through tough and trying times in our life. I am so thankful for their friendship and continued support over the years. I love you girls!!

2008-04-04T13:10:00.000-07:00

Tessa-roo is 3 now! It's sooo hard to believe. Grandma made her this beautiful Tinkerbell cake. Tess was sneaking a lick... yummy!!!!

2008-04-04T13:06:00.000-07:00

Tate, my tough ninja that protects us girls! He loves to fight, have swords, and wrestle with mom. He is quite a character, and a lot like is Dad.

Triple the Love

2008-04-04T10:05:00.000-07:00

Best Friends Thru and Thru. I could not have asked the Lord for a more perfect bunch of kidos. They are God's gift of love to me. Ryan would have been so proud. This picture just shows a typical day in our home. Dress-up (Poor Taters), and pretend play. I love that they play so well together. Thank you, Lord for the joys in my life.

2008-04-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

Tayah is growing so fast. She loves school, and doing great with karate. It's a family thing now. I am so blessed to have my lil helper by my side.

Reese Renee Kostjuk

2008-04-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

2008-03-15T10:31:00.000-07:00

Last week we were blessed to have Grammy and Papa come and stay so that I could get a few days away! It was great. Boy, did it feel nice to have some time to go shopping and out to eat without having to go to a kid -friendly place, where I end up stressing out vs. enjoying my meal. It's not that my kids are bad in restaurants, it's just nice to have a conversation with someone without 18 distractions, if you know what I mean. Plus, we went to what I like to call..."Disneyland for adults"- IKEA!!!! I love that place. That weekend was FULL of adventures and new understanding of myself. I guess I get too busy at home to really process my life and how I am truly doing. So, it was good, hard but good.
The kids are still thoroughly enjoying karate. Getting better everyday. Tessa is still swimming, and now thanks to the many people who contributed, she is LOVING gymnastics!! I love that they have a physical outlet for themselves. Also each week they are blessed by meeting with our amazing children's pastor, Pastor Bobby! He prays, teaches, & spends time with them. They also get to practice shooting their bows! Ryan would be so proud!