Trust the Lord, Always

I must begin by saying "thank you" to all who have prayed for my family and I as we have been grieving the loss of our child unto miscarriage.  The loss of a child is always difficult for me. I have experienced two miscarriages and the birth of a still born (Zephaniah Bowie).  Each of these losses were heart wrenching, but with God, through the Holy Spirit I was able to receive His will with peace.

With this particular loss, I was given wisdom and grace, before hand.  The Lord gave me knowledge of our situation in that of my low hcg level.  That insight lead me to seek Him diligently for that which I needed to carry on, sometimes moment by moment and other times day to day.  It also gave me the opportunity to trust Him and to put my faith into action.  I chose to handle the situation like David, for while there was still hope, I prayed, in faith, for the healthy life of our child, but when I experienced the miscarriage, though I sobbed with much grief and sorrow, I chose to accept His will, press on and bless His name.

Through this season of life, through the fire, including this pregnancy and loss, I have learned to trust the Lord, always.  When the trials and tribulations of life present themselves...trust the Lord...when concerned...trust the Lord, when fearful...trust the Lord, when perplexed...trust the Lord, when angry...trust the Lord and when grieving...trust the Lord.  "...for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." Phil 4:11b

Thank you Lord for your Holy Spirit that strengthens, comforts and keeps me...I trust You, always.  "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me." Phil 4:13

I Must Go On In Him

Today I was blessed with a rose, coffee and fresh fruit from my husband, Tim Horton's donuts, more coffee and hugs from dear friends and continuously I have been showered with love, care and encouragement from my children. There is life and love all around me. I am blessed and inspired; I must go on in Him, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13.

I solicit your prayers as I continue to heal physically and emotionally.  Even now, I rejoice in the Lord for he has been merciful unto me.  My pain has been light and the bleeding is manageable, though today I have been rather nauseous at times (see http://michele-fruitofherhands.blogspot.com/2013/07/not-my-will-but-thy-will-lord.html).  I am comforted in knowing that this too shall pass.

As I rest today, I am prayerful and looking forward to that which the Lord has for me to do.  This weekend, July 26th and 27th we will still have Beds for Bowies Garage Sale and though there will be limited items due to my inability to complete all of my projects, I will still have a few items available on Saturday, July 27th, 11:00-1:00 for Beds for Bowies Home Decor Party (see http://michele-fruitofherhands.blogspot.com/2013/07/god-is-faithful-to-bring-it-to-past.html).  Please plan to join us, for these our last two fundraisers.  We will see this through in faith, for our goal is to finish well!

Not My Will, But Thy Will Lord

The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands. Psalm 138:8  It is with great sadness that I share that my pregnancy will end in a loss.  Yesterday morning I began to spot, later that afternoon I had an ultrasound which confirmed that I had begun the process of miscarriage. I will go through the process naturally as I am comforted by Lord and my family.

As I reflect on this short journey, I am so grateful for my relationship with the Lord who gives me wisdom, patience and peace.  Upon finding out about this pregnancy I was surprised and honored to be chosen. I am always in awe with God, his ways truly give me a clarity of his sovereignty and his grace.  Though I am sad and disappointed, I trust the Lord.  My life is in His hands, for He knows what's best for me...Not my will, but thy will Lord.

Baby Bowie #11...A Test Of Our Faith

It's been one week since I had my first visit to the doctor for "Baby Bowie #11" and though my hcg levels are low there has still been no sign of miscarriage.  I am grateful for my faith in God!  Last week when I first heard of the possibility of a miscarriage I was not shaken, but by the next morning I was saddened by the thought of losing such a gift from God.  I then began to prepare myself for a miscarriage, a D&C and recovery.  By Sunday morning, I was again sad, so I cried out to the Lord. He ministered to me, giving me wisdom and truth by presenting the facts to me:  you are having no sign of miscarriage currently and you are not alone, you have me through this pregnancy with you...unto the end which is yet to be seen. I accepted those truths in my heart and mind and I chose to rejoice and praise Him.

Walter and I are at peace with our decision to wait on the Lord; this is yet another test of our faith.  It is a fact that when one has a miscarriage they usually have low hcg levels and it is also a fact that God is our creator and he is the author of life and death.  We will not interfere with God's plan by submitting to any procedure before His will of such is evident.  We know the reality of miscarriage from previous experience as well as we know the reality of God's sovereignty and his favor from previous experience.  We are looking forward to another ultra sound on Monday and we are very hopeful that our baby is well.  Will you join us in prayer for a mentally, physically and spiritually healthy Baby Bowie? 

Recreate, Repurpose, Renewed Home Decor and Home Furnishings

Eight months ago, I didn't think I'd be handcrafting home decor and renewing home furnishing again, but look at God.  As a result of our home fire and now our need for furniture and home decor, I began my journey of purchasing used, sturdy, solid wood pieces of furniture to renew (as seen below) and household items to recreate and repurpose. Handcrafting home decor was once a passion, so I am enjoying this opportunity to use my gifts and talents again to bless our family.

With the need to raise more funds for Beds for Bowies, I have decided to handcraft some items for resale.  I have been diligent to the task, below are items that are currently for sale.

On Saturday, July 27th, 11am -1 pm, I will host, Fruit of Her Hands Home Decor and Home Furnishings Party.  ALL the proceeds will go to Beds for Bowies.  Mark you calendar and come shop for your home or office.

Children are a Heritage of the Lord

I am so grateful to the Lord for His mercy and grace which he has showered upon our children during this season of our lives.  Through the fire I have seen Him draw them unto him intimately as I have watched them search their souls and yield unto Him in submission.  I have seen them wrestle with our situation at times along with the truth of His word to be our "provider".  I seen them grow as individuals, His children, our gifts.  I am so grateful for the privilege to be their mother, each and everyone of them.

Our children are our heritage; God's children given to us by birth, gifts from Him.  I have received each one as a gift for I know that it is a privilege to be chosen by Him to bear and train them unto Him.  From conception I acknowledge His goodness to have selected me out of the many to nurture each one.  As with any heritage, the intent of the gift was for it be treasured, cared for on purpose, with much responsibility.  This is why it saddens me to loose one before I have the opportunity to fulfill my purpose, to play my role as mommy.

Not my will, but thine O Lord", is my thought right now as three weeks ago I found out that I was pregnant and after a visit to my doctor, I have found that my pregnancy may not be viable.  I have had two blood test which indicate a drop in my hcg levels which occurs when one miscarries, to date I have had no sign of a miscarriage.  I have another ultra sound scheduled for Monday and so in faith...and hope... and uncertainty, I trust in the Lord.  For His will is what I desire for me, for us.

And as I go through this time of not knowing what will become of my little glimpse of life in my womb, I look at our children and I say thank you Lord.

Thank for blessing with us with such a heritage as this.  Some inherit houses and land, but for us, O Lord, you have chosen us for a greater heritage, one that may live eternally, thank you God!

Please pray for our family, for our strength and our joy to be abundant in Him, thank you!

God is Faithful to Bring it to Past

Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon was truly a success!  Let me explain what I mean by "success".  God's will was done; He did what he set out to do...provide!.   When I prayed about our bedding situation God answered me with wisdom and instruction.  He gave it to me piece...by piece.  Please know that this was not a clear road map, but instead He gave a bit a time.  As I spoke about that which He laid upon my heart, He gave me a bit more.  Now, be mindful that as I received it, though I spoke it I did not necessarily have confidence about it, but I did choose to walk in faith.  You may recall from previous blog posts that I was concerned about the number of walkers and prayer warriors or lack there of.  I had a totally different idea of success; all the more reason to trust the Lord and that which he leads you to do.


Well, I am so glad to say our God does that which He wills.  I asked for provisions and he gave me a vision and instruction for those provisions, my job was to obey.  On Saturday, July, 13th, as planned we met with others at our home for prayer.  We were able to join hands across the front of our home, yeah!!! We laid our petitions before the Lord and gave Him praise for his many blessings. At Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon we had a total of 24 walkers, including children and we had 4 volunteers.  We collected enough money to meet our first goal which is to purchase a mattress for each one of us, thank you Lord!    It was such a day of peace and sweet fellowship...God was present.

I am in awe with God!  He has been so gracious to speak to me with wisdom and clarity AND He was faithful to bring it to past.  I can't express how humbled I am by His goodness. He spoke to my heart and I had the pleasure of seeing and experiencing His will, his purpose, his provisions unfold.

We still have some fundraising to do to meet our final goal of purchasing beds for the boys, that's 8 maybe 9 beds (see my recent post:  http://michele-fruitofherhands.blogspot.com/2013/07/children-are-heritage-of-lord.html). If you pledged to sponsor one of us for the walk-a-thon and have not yet given us your funds or if you would like to make a donation you can do so on this blog using the Bowie Fire Fund "DONATE" button located in the right hand corner at the top of the page.

We are faithful and will complete this journey by having two more fundraisers.  On July 26th and July 27th we will have a Beds for Bowies Garage Sale.  We are in need of  your unwanted household items, tools etc. (no clothing).  And on July 27th, 11:00-1:00, we will have a Beds for Bowies Home Decor Party consisting of handcrafted and renewed home decor and furniture by Fruit of Her Hands. ALL the proceeds will go directly to Beds for Bowies. Please pray for us as we continue to trust in Him.

Experience God WIth Us!

Have you ever experienced the power of prayer?  A time when you were praying and you felt His presence or maybe a time when you were joined with another in prayer and you felt a peace come over you with regards to your petition.  We are expecting to meet God tomorrow at our home as we gather together for prayer over our home and our family.

I am faithful that God will be present and He will bless us with his goodness.  I believe that all who gather with us will blessed because no one can be in the presence of the one true God and not be blessed by Him.  Will you come and experience God with us?  Join us in a blessing of our home and of our family.

We covet your presences and your prayers.  There is nothing like coming together with the body of Christ for prayer, what a powerful time it is!  My hope is that will we be able to litereally "circle" our home and pray together and give God praise.  Will you join us tomorrow morning at 8:00 a.m. at our home?

If you are unable to be there in body, will you commit to being there in spirit and set your alarms and begin to pray with us at 8:15 a.m. that is our goal, that ones will be praying for God's will, his blessing upon the Bowie family, collectively.  There is power in prayer!

"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them", Matthew 18:20

There's No Place Like Home

When you've been away for an extended time, even for a wonderful vacation, there is nothing like coming back home to your own space, to your own bed.  With the recent construction progress on our home, I can see the reality of us returning home soon and I am looking forward to it. 

We look forward to various aspects of being home, but we all agree that it will be nice to return home to what will be our own bed just as we would if we'd been away for any other occasion, "there's no place like home".

Will you help each of us return home to a comfortable bed, one with a comfortable mattress?  Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon is in less than 24 hours and we are still in need of sponsors and  walkers, will you join us? To give financially use the "donate" button to the right of this page (located at the top). Your support is very important to us, however you feel lead, please join us.

We need your presence as much as we need your financial and prayer support.  To hold ones hands to form a circle of prayer around our home and our family and to see ones faces as we walk the mile path at Lazelle Woods Park will be a blessing and an expression of God's love to us.  Please, come and embrace us on this leg of our journey through the fire.

Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon

Saturday, July 13, 2013

Prayer for the Bowie Home 8:00 a.m.

Walk-a-thon 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

at

Lazelle Woods Park

Lazelle Rd., between Worthington Galena Rd. and Sancus Blvd.

The Power of Prayer

Many of you have been praying for us and the rebuilding of our home.  I am praising the Lord; currently our home is under construction.  Yes, work is being done!  The foundation has been repaired and the new foundation for the expansion is built.  Last week they starting framing, yeah!  Prayer changes things.  When the Lord gave me the plan for Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon, he also gave me a vision of ones surrounding our home for corporate prayer.

We will have that corporate prayer on July 13, 2013 at 8:00 a.m. at our home as it is under construction.  We will pray for continued progress with no costly delays, safety for the construction workers and that the hands of those building our home would be blessed by the Lord.  We will also pray for each of us, Bowies, that we will be anxious for nothing, but instead trust the Lord for wisdom, patience and peace.  We ask that the Lord give Walter and I insight and discernment as things progress that we make wise decisions as the need arises and that we look to God to continue to be our strength and our provider.  Will you join us?

We need you, each of you in spirit and indeed!  The goal is to surround our home;  that will take a lot of prayer warriors. Oh, the power of prayer; can you imagine the impact!  Where two or more are gathered...God is sure to hear our prayers and I am faithful He will answer them.  If you are unable to attend please join us in spirit that morning.  If you are interested in joining our prayer circle, please contact us for more details.

Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon, Are You In?

It's July and time is getting nearer, are you walking with us for Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon?  We need you!  Each of us have been diligently seeking sponsors.  It blesses my heart so to see our children humbly embrace this event. Each one is faithfully explaining to friends and family the purpose for this event as they seek support. Our ten year old has committed to walking the whole ten miles, one mile for each of us! What a blessing it will be when we return home and they rest upon their beds knowing that by faith we were blessed by God and the body of Christ.

Come join us in the walk!  You can walk 1 mile, 10 miles or anything in between.  How is the Lord leading you?  Contact us and we will send you this form so you can choose which Bowie(s) you are walking on behalf of and start getting sponsors and collecting donations.  Thank you for your support!

Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon

Saturday, July 13, 2013 9:00 a.m.

Lazelle Woods Park

(located on Lazelle Rd. between Worthington Galena Rd. and Sancus Blvd.)

Participants name:_____________________________________________________________________

Dear Sponsor,

I am participating in Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon.  All proceeds from this walk-a-thon will be used to purchase beds for the Bowie family of 10 who lost 2/3 of the contents of their home to a house fire.  I will be walking ______________ miles, 1 mile for each of the family members named noted below for a total of ____________ miles.  Thank you!

Bowie family members:

_____   Walter

_____   Michele

_____   Elijah

_____   Kelaiah

_____   Nehemiah

_____   Micah

_____   Isaiah

_____   Zechariah

_____   Ezekiel

_____   Malachi

Name of Sponsor	Pledge per mile	Maximum pledge	Total amount collected from Sponsor
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.

*Make checks payable to Walter Bowie Fire Fund

Participants:  Our hope is that each participant will find 10 sponsors.  Please bring this form and your donations with you to the walk-a-thon. Thank you  again, for your support!

Why a Walk-a-thon and Why 10 miles?

We are having Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon on Saturday, July 13, 2013 and many have wondered and some have asked us why a walk-a-thon?  So, I'd like to answer that question and I hope you will then join us in our walk of obedience unto the Lord.

We too have posed the question "why" unto the Lord with regards to this whole incidence of the loss of our home to a fire...why did our home catch on fire, why did we loose so many of our belongings, why did we have to make a home somewhere else temporarily, why did the first builder move so slowly and not get work permits, why did our home shift to the extent of major repair...why, why, why?  Well, many of the questions that we have posed to God may never be answered we just have to trust Him.


One thing I do know is that in the midst of this season in which we lack understanding we must obey the Lord.  God does not always reveal to us that which we feel we need to know, but He does give wisdom freely when we ask for it.  When I asked for wisdom regarding provisions for beds for our family he laid Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon on my heart.  Again, I did not understand, but I chose to walk in humility and obey.


Support for Beds for Bowie Walk-a-thon has caused me to ask again, why?  Why aren't we receiving much support Lord?  We have received support from a bedding company who will give us a discount on mattresses.  Thank you, Lord!  This is a big help, but we need to raise the funds to pay for them.  We have not received much support with regards to "walkers", those willing to walk to raise money.  It has been brought to my attention that 10 miles is just too many miles to consider.  So, I sought the Lord for clarity...10 beds for 10 Bowies, thus the 10 miles.  But, it's not necessary for each one to walk 10 miles.  If each person just walked 1 mile for 1 Bowie and got 10 sponsors who will give a donation for that 1 mile walked that would be a great help!  If one is ambitious and  willing to walk more than 1 mile, they can choose 2 Bowies and walk 2 miles.   They can choose to walk as much or as little as they'd like.  I am so grateful to God for wisdom and clarity!


Will you join us?  If so, please contact us so we can send you an official Beds for Bowies Pledge Form, choose a Bowie (or 2...) and you will be ready to get sponsors and collect donations! 

All Things Are Possible With God

My plan, as a young adult was to have 2 children and then I accepted Jesus as my personal saviour and Lord.  Twenty-two years and ten children later, I am amazed that I am the mother of so many "wonderfully made" people.  Though they are all Bowies, they are obviously individuals, created in His image, what a task for Walter and I to train each one unto the Lord.  We are so inadequate in and of ourselves.  How do we do it Lord?  How do we show each one love...sharpen each ones character...pray for each one...daily?


All things are possible with God!  I seek Him continuously regarding each and everyone of our gifts, MiKyle, Elijah, Kelaiah, Nehemiah, Micah, Isaiah, Zechariah, Ezekiel, Zephaniah and Malachi.  I take my responsibility and my privilege of training our children very seriously.  As a mother I have the task of nurturing each one from infancy.  To nurture one is to know one and to know one is to spend time with one, individually as well as collectively and provide them with sustenance, spiritual, mental and physical sustenance.  What a great task with three generations of children.  I often have to remind myself...all things are possible with God.


Over the years I have learned how to group ones and how to invite ones individually into my "throne of grace", that place where they receive attention and love and my 'throne of instruction and discipline", that place where they receive wise counsel and rebuke.  Again, all things are possible with God, O how I trust Him.  Often times I am unsure if these encounters are effective, but I find peace in knowing I am in constant communion with God on their behalf.

This week I had the privilege of seeing a few of our young adults takes steps of responsibility and a couple of my younger children taking steps of responsibility; each one excepting their season of life and learning that with privileges comes responsibility.  I am in awe; in the midst of each of those situations was God...wooing with the Holy Spirit, convicting, affirming...ministering to our children and I had the privilege of experiencing it with them.  What a privilege and an honor!  It is times like these that I am inspired to press on.

As a mother, each day brings about its challenges, situations that stretch me and lead me to God for wisdom, joy and peace for this is not an easy task.  But, I must say it is a rewarding task.  I am a better person, a better servant of God all because I was chosen to be the mother of each of these Bowie children for they sharpen me and I am committed to not be weary in well doing, but instead to take up my cross daily and follow Him and be the best Mommy, Mom, Momma, I can be!

Walking with Him...will you join us?

Walking takes a bit of confidence, first one step and then another.  Walking with God along this journey of life is just like that, one step at a time.  I took a few steps of faith and obedience unto the Lord after seeking Him for wisdom for provisions for beds for our family.  Quite frankly, this is a humbling experience for me, personally.  Not just the act of asking others for help, but more so, it is humbling to see the manifestation of God's love through him speaking to my heart so clearly and leading me to have this event, His event, and then to see Him at work...humbling indeed.  I am excited about the support and encouragement we have received so far for Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon. 

To give an update on what God is doing, one of my friends took the liberty to contact a bedding company on our behalf to obtain support for Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon and we have been offered a discount on mattresses,  praise the Lord!!!  We have also received a few donations, again, praise the Lord!!!  This has confirmed that we are in His will with this event. It just excites me because taking these steps of faith have been with some hesitation; even knowing it was from God, it seemed a bit precarious.  Thank you God for being the firm foundation on which I stand and a hand to hold when I walk with you!


Well, I have continued to ponder and plan the day of the event and now the order of the day is in place, but we need "walkers"... will you walk with us? This is a 10-mile walk.  We need ones who are willing to take on the challenge.  You can set your own goal.  For instance, you may plan to walk 5 miles of the 10-mile walk, great goal! Now, will you contact us to register as a "walker" and then share with your family and friends to get sponsors?  You can ask for $1 per mile from each sponsor, a total of $5.  If you have 10 sponsors you will raise $50!  Are you in...we need YOU!


Some have asks us if they could just make a donation.  Donations are welcome and greatly appreciated.  To do so there is a "fire fund" set up for our family. This fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank. You can walk into the bank and simply identify the fund by name and make your donation or you can use this information at your own bank by giving it online or in person when making a transfer.  The information to do so is as follows:

Fifth Third Bank

Fund name: Walter Bowie Fire Fund

Routing number: 044002161

Account number: 728364

Please keep us in your prayers.  Pray that God's will be done with the Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon, that everyone participating will be safe, no dehydration or cramps and that His light will shine through each of us that day.

Beds for Bowies

As most of you know, on Sunday, November 4, 2012 our family experienced a house fire in which 2/3 of our home was damaged and 2/3 of our belongs lost. We are grateful to God that everyone escaped safely, no smoke inhalation, nor injury.


This summer, I am diligently seeking furniture and accessories "second hand' to reestablish our home.  In doing so, I have been met with the reality that we all need new mattresses and "second hand' mattresses are just not an option.  Have you priced the cost of a new mattress lately, one that will last you more that a year or two?  Now, multiply that times 10!!!  EXPENSIVE... to put it mildly.  


Humbly, I have been asking God for wisdom.  It was laid on my heart to have a walk-a-thon.  That's right, "Beds for Bowies Walk-a-thon", Saturday, July 13, 2013, at 9:00 a.m.  We will first meet at our home at 8:00 a.m. and pray over the reconstruction and for our family.  Would you join us for prayer?  Then, we will drive to Lazelle Woods Park for a 10 mile walk-a-thon, would you sponsor one of us, $1 per mile?

We are also seeking sponsorship from a business or corporation who is willing to purchase a bed or beds for our family.  Do you know of such a business or corporation?  Please contact me. 

If you'd like to give a financial blessing, there is a "fire fund" set up for our family. This fund has been established at Fifth Third Bank. You can walk into the bank and simply identify the fund by name and make your donation or you can use this information at your own bank by giving it online or in person when making a transfer.  The information to do so is as follows:

Fifth Third Bank

Fund name: Walter Bowie Fire Fund

Routing number: 044002161

Account number: 7283640

We would appreciate your support.  Just as important as financial blessings, we are in need of prayer for continued wisdom, discernment, patience and peace for each of us.  Thank you in advance for your considerations for our family.

We Are Overcomers

The good news of the construction being back in process comes with the revelation of  some "shifting" that has happen to our home, another bump in the road.  Obviously, the repair of the foundation of our home was not an option.  It was very necessary and very costly.  Unfortunately, the insurance company will not cover this as it is considered "a pre-existing condition".  I pray that we don't run into any more unexpected expenses. 

What a journey of faith unto the Lord this has been for us all, individually as well as collectively; we have overcome so much in Him.  God has been so merciful to carry us every step of the way.  He has provided us with a comfortable home, we've completed our school year and are now happily engaging in Summer fun i.e. bike riding, zoo visits and park fun all with items that we were blessed with (read more here http://michele-fruitofherhands.blogspot.com/2013/06/grateful-to-god-and-his-people.html).   


Each week Kelaiah and I diligently seek to find household items, furniture etc. on clearance and at thrift stores and garage sales that I can "renew" for our home and then the work begins...sanding, striping, staining and painting.
 

Great find!  I have been pricing ottomans...$100 and up

My cost for this solid wood ottoman...$6.99 + the cost of fabric!

I have learned so much about God and myself during this season.  He has given me gifts and talents for such a time as this.  He has also given me the will and desire to embrace this season instead of begrudging it as I would if I didn't have Him.


Our God is omniscient and for that I am glad.  Because He knows all and sees all, he is aware of what will happen and thus he has a plan.  A plan to give us wisdom, a plan to give us peace, a plan to give us joy and even a plan for our provisions. To sum it up, I am in awe with His lovingkindness and grace unto my family.  In the midst of this season, in Him I have peace and by His grace...we are overcomers!

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. in the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.  John 16:33

His Plan, My Desire....His Blessing, My Reality

A few weeks ago, as I considered the fact that our Summer was going to be spent in the temporary home and that it was my responsibility to present this to my family with joy and zeal.  My heart was heavy; I just couldn't see it.  The backyard is spacious, yet, it is void of furniture, flowers...functionality and the deck, well let's just say it's seen better days. We also lacked outdoor equipment for the children to play with i.e. balls (basketball, football, dodge ball, soccer ball etc.) and wheels (skateboards, bikes and roller blades).  In my conversations with the Lord I told him of my woes, okay, I had a pity party before Him. God's presence and his listening ear was a comfort to me; I felt a peace in my heart.


As I went about my Tuesday morning ventures of seeking items to renew, I walked right into two cute, metal beverage tables and I suddenly had a vision me painting them and placing them on that old deck covered with an outdoor carpet, flanked with a couple of cute chairs surrounded by beautiful clay pots painted by my daughter.  I walked over to check the price...$2 each!  I snatched them right up with a smile.  My Tuesday venture now had a specific purpose...decorating the deck and readying myself for Spring.  I smiled at God, for I knew it was his plan.


I decided on a color palette and set my heart and mind to the task.  I painted the tables and for the next few days, I browsed through many thrift stores for outdoor furniture and accessories.

It was my heart's desire to set the stage for sweet fellowship.  With a limited budget and the fact that I may not have use for the items when we return home I was determined to find bargains.   While looking for these items I found a few balls, a plastic bat and a skateboard.  I also picked up seeds, potting soil and flower pots, all within my budget.  I could just see what an inviting space it would be!


The week long shopping venture was tiring, but fun, as I only gave myself one week to complete the shopping, planting and renewing of the items I found because my project "to do list" was already more than I would have liked.  I also wanted my family to begin to enjoy the outdoor space and all that God had blessed us with.


Well, after a bit of soap and water, paint and clear sealant and the help of my artistic daughter, we now have a very functional space, a container garden and a few outside activities.  His plan is my reality, now we can certainly have sweet fellowship here!

Grateful to God and His People

We are so grateful for the kindness of others!  The love of God has been displayed to us over and over by His people.  It is not by coincidence that when we humble ourselves and let others know we have a need or a desire it is given us and often times the blessing is beyond our imagination.  That's God.  Through prayer and humility, I have seen His will be done over and over again.


Earlier, in a blog posted, I share that I was looking for bikes for our children.  Within hours, literally, less that 24 hours, we were offered four bikes.  What a blessing!  Our children really wanted bikes to ride this summer and we just could not for see purchasing seven bikes...yes, seven.  We generally acquire things one at a time, on an as need bases, unless it is given as a birthday gift.  So, to say the least we were in awe with God for answering our request, a mere desire, not really a need, so quickly through His people.

To say the least the Bowie children are very happy and very grateful for such blessings. I am just so thankful to God.  When He blesses, he does so  with such love and it is, as I said "beyond my imagination!

Spring Is Certainly Here...A Time To Plant

It's Spring and I am excited! As a homeschool mom, when Spring begins, I see it as a season of opportunity; a time to start a fresh and a new, a time to reevaluate myself and my children and a time to enjoy "my man".  I look forward to spontaneous games with the children, Friends Day (Tuesday evenings), S'mores and impromptu dates.

This year it shall be no different; I refuse to allow our current situation of still being in the temporary house while "our home" is reconstructed to put a damper on this season.  Though the reality of the lack of comfort and normalcy did plague me for a moment, the Lord did enlighten and encourage me.  My family needs me to be faithful, to plant the seeds of the season that we might reap a harvest in the days to come. And that I will, I am simply going to carry on as normal even the planting of a container garden. For God holds our future in his hands and it is merely my job to be a willing vessel in his plan for the Bowies.

With that thought in mind I realize there is much preparation to take place to plant seeds for our harvest.  I must prepare the land, the hearts of our children as we enter in to this season.  I must also seek and find the merchandise or furniture for our home I will invest in, renewing each piece specifically for our use. And I must daily submit my heart to Christ that I am able to work the Bowie garden so that we will at seasons end yield much good fruit.  I know the task at hand is not an easy one.


As I pondered these things I still found it difficult to know where and how to begin when things appear to be so different this year.  The Lord reminded me I am not starting life over, I am just doing life in a different place. Oh yea! I am glad the Lord laid it upon my heart, years ago, to have a family fun camp at the park. In my planning, I started there.  It has always been a foundational part of our Spring and Summer to have Virtue Family Fun Camp. We invite friends to bring a sack lunch, listen to read aloud stories, have a book review, make a craft and enjoy some playtime while the moms have a book review and prayer time.  I am looking forward to this more this year than I have in the past.  I so want our children to make good memories during this transitional time in our lives.  For myself, I look forward to growing in Christ with my sisters in Christ and having prayer time in the park, which will be an extended time this year, because I need it.  As they have for the past couple of years the boys will also participate in sports camp and we will commit to a few volunteer opportunities as a family.


I am also looking forward to helping my children build good character, encouraging them and pulling the weeds of the flesh i.e. selfishness, pride, lying etc. In this season, there always appears to be more time to converse with them and pray with them.  I spend most of my time with them, in their presence, engaged with them in a more enjoyable, relaxed setting.  Our home becomes more a place of rest and relaxation, restoration and renewal.  We will have extended morning devotions together outside or on the couch, academic time to practice basic reading, writing and arithmetic skills using games, flashcards etc. and we'll go on field trips for hands on learning and fun.  I don't know if it's the warmth of the sun or the grace of the season that warms my heart so and draws me closer to my family, my friends and closer to God, but I am excited to embark upon it.


What about you; are you looking forward to season?

     

April Showers Bring May Flowers

At the beginning of April we were showered with disappointment with regards to the reconstruction/remodel of our home.  The builder we hired was not working efficiently, to put it kindly.  We were about four months into the perspective date of our reconstruction/remodel and only about ten percent of the work had been complete.  This presented us with a major decision to dismiss this builder from our project. With this decision came much frustration and anxiety as we were not sure what to do since we only had the recommendation of one other building company from our insurance company who gave us the recommendation of first builder. 

After much conversation and prayer, Walter and I decided to go with our second recommendation and trust the Lord to prevail.  As this builder looked into what was virtually no work done, they went to confirm that the proper permits had been filed so they could get to work.  This resulted in more disappointment as there were no building permits applied for...none!  They inquired about applying for a partial permit to at least begin working and found this was no longer allowed.  Again, more disappointment.  The only option was to apply for work permits needed for the complete job of reconstruction and remodel with the expectancy of a 4-6 week wait for the permits to be approved.

Well, I am glad to say, it did not take 6 weeks, as they have begun the initial work needed to get started on the project.  There is much digging going on right now as we are expanding the rear of our home as part of the remodel. I am faithful that May flowers are on their way.

Please keep us in your prayers as these "showers" mean we will not be back in our "home" this Summer.  I am now attempting to make the adjustment to be in our temporary home for a bit longer.  This comes with many mental and physical adjustments as we are use to enjoying our decks and swimming in our pool at our leisure, oh and enjoying "Friend's Day" each Tuesday throughout the Summer.  As God would have it, that will not be so this summer and we have accepted that to be not His will.

So, my current venture  is to make this place our "summer home", a place of restoration of heart and mind, relaxation, fellowship and fun...fun...fun!  Will you help?  I am seeking a few items:  an outside rug (so we can use the very old deck), a volleyball net and volleyballs (doesn't replace the pool but makes for good spontaneous fun), a basketball hoop and basketball, bikes and helmets, and a fire pit.  If you are getting rid of any of these things in your garage sale or you plan to donate them this season, please consider us and again, keep us in your prayers.  I am anticipating the great things He has planned for us!

Longaberger Baskets=Blessings Upon Blessings

A couple of months ago, I posted a blog with an offer, no actually an opportunity to be blessed with great, high quality merchandise and be a "blessing" to our family when purchasing a Longaberger basket, pottery or flameware.  The commission I earn from  these purchase is being used solely to purchase household furnishings for our home as we lost 2/3 of our belongs in the fire we experienced in November.

If you considered making a purchase and did not, there is still time to "Buy a Basket...help the Bowies"  If you know ones who might be interested in these items please forward this link to them, thank you!  http://ic.longaberger.com/esuite/home/michelebowie?showID=15842528&hostName=Michele+Bowie&closeDate=04%2F30%2F2013 
every purchase counts.  Thank you in advance for your support of the rebuilding of our "home".

Save Money For Summer Fun

Now is the time to consider what you would like to do with your family this summer.  Some of us plan for our children to attend camps or summer classes while others choose to plan a family vacation.  Whatever your desire for fun and relaxation this summer it is sure to cost money.  If you're like me, you live on a budget and must plan how to include these extra expenses into the big picture.  I have found that my grocery budget is the most flexible category in my budget.  Since the grocery budget is not a fixed price or a bill to be paid, I can choose to shop and save, thus giving me a nest egg for the extras...i.e. summer fun!  

When grocery shopping, my greatest savings come from using coupons.  I have made coupon clipping a regular part of my weekly tasks so it will not feel like one more thing on my To Do List. I have also decided that shopping at more that one store is a wise choice, as you know some stores have greater everyday prices on certain items so if these stores are having a sale..."cha-ching".

To learn more about how to shop and save come, join me at my Coupon Gathering and Coupon 101 Class, Monday, April 15, 2013 at 6:30 p.m., and learn how to shop and SAVE BIG on groceries, toiletries, cleaning supplies etc., how to organize your coupons and where to find coupons on the internet. You will also learn how to set up our computers for convenient daily updates from coupon bloggers, facebook pages etc. and much more! Cost just $10. Not interested in taking the class , come for the Coupon Gathering...here is a great opportunity to join like-minded women to cut, print and organize coupons as well as make your grocery list while enjoying a light snack and a beverage. I will share current shopping deals and scenarios. For your convenience I offer wifi and a printer. Cost just $5. Contact me today to reserve your spot.

Buy a Longaberger basket...bless the Bowies!

As a result of our recent house fire we lost a lot of our belongings.  Over the years I accumulated several Longaberger baskets and wanted to replace them because I found them to be very useful and durable, able to withstand the activities of our busy household.  The cost to replace them was huge and even though we were being reimbursed by our insurance company I wanted to be sure to make a wise purchase.  When contacting a Longaberger consultant she encouraged me to make the most of my money and become a consultant at a cost of $49 which gave me the opportunity to receive $200 in merchandise FREE as well as gave me the ability to make the commission from my own sale which allowed me to purchase additional merchandise at NO additional cost.  I was grateful for such insight and the opportunity to make good use of our money.

There are still things we have need of for our home and I am asking for your help. If you or any of your family or friends purchase Longaberger, please consider using my website  http://ic.longaberger.com/esuite/home/michelebowie to make your purchases.  When you buy a basket, pottery etc. from me as a consultant you bless the Bowies!  The commission from these sales will bless our family with income to be able to refurnish our home.  Below please find the current and upcoming sales for this month to help make wise purchases. Thank you in advance for your consideration!

 

CURRENT AND UPCOMING SALES...

 

It's the final week before Tax Day on April 15, and Longaberger has some BIG savings planned NOW through Monday!

On Wednesday, April 10 beginning at noon through midnight on Monday, April 15 three of our most popular baskets are on sale at great prices!  The Cake, Social Gathering, and Everyday Essentials Baskets are offered at savings up to 50% off in 15 different colors!  They are hardworking baskets with and without our pottery, and with this color selection will work in every room of your home. You can order these directly through my website 

http://ic.longaberger.com/esuite/home/michelebowie  or call  614-431-2307 or e-mail me at boworks@aol.com to place the order.  Visit the website to view photos and see color details and more. 

Also, all of our Longaberger at home showroom locations including Longaberger at home online are having a 30% off sale on EVERYTHING through Monday, April 15.  In addition, our retired So Rachel jewelry collection is available for an additional 30% off on Tuesday, April 9 from noon until midnight.  You can shop this sale directly through my website at http://ic.longaberger.com/esuite/home/michelebowie  and choose the Longaberger at Home link on the left side of the page. 

Don't forget -- we are offering our terrific pottery sale in our April flyer the entire month of April, and this is the month to order our Mother's Day Baskets too -- orders are guaranteed for Mother's Day delivery if placed by Monday, April 15. If you have any questions on any of these offers please let me know!  I am currently hosting an online show (SHOW ID 15837864) through April 20, 2013.  Just use this show ID with my name as host to place your order. Thank you for your support.