7 going on 17... or 47

I often say that I am thirty something going on thirteen. I have recognized lately that I must be rubbing off on my daughter, as mothers tend to do, because she doesn't always act her age either. 

Seven years ago my life was forever changed by the most beautiful person I had ever seen. I never knew my heart could hold that much love. I also never could have dreamed or imagined the person that talks and walks and creates and dreams and feels so deeply and brings me so much joy. At seven years old, she already tries to keep me grounded (although it doesn't necessarily work.). Just last night I turned to Keira and made a somewhat snide comment directed toward my mom, all in good fun of course, and Keira's eyes widened and bore into my own while a firm command to "STOP" made its way through her clenched teeth.  She regularly reminds me that my bathroom humor is gross and that I need to quit because she doesn't want to listen to it anymore. She knows all about kindness and love and friendship. She calls her brother and sister her "siblings" and teaches them Bible stories and their meanings.  She loves sushi and chooses a yogurt parfait over pancakes and carrot sticks over French fries. Is she 7... or 47?

In other moments she rolls her eyes at me way too readily and manipulates situations to try to get her own way.  It often seems to be her main goal to get her brother in trouble, while getting away with as much as she possibly can.  She cares way too much what others think and sometimes doubts her gifts and abilities, but is willing to enter into conversation with me to work through it. She loves getting her nails done, her hair curled, and new clothes. She gets agitated when I ask her about boys, but worries about how she is going to find someone to marry.  She makes thoughtful decisions and exercises her independence. Is she 7... or 17?

My favorite moments are when she tells me that she wants me cuddle with her while she watches cartoons and when she reaches for my hand and grips it tightly when we cross the street or walk through a parking lot.  Thunderstorms and bad dreams send her to the safe place between her Daddy and I. She gets over the top excited about Disney movies and always picks books about puppies or bunnies on library day. Her laughter rings through the house indicating that she doesn't have a care in the world.  She loves dressing up like a princess, coloring, and playing endlessly in the backyard. Sometimes I forget, but I am often reminded, she is 7, 100% and completely 7 years old. 

Happy 7th Birthday to the little lady who has changed my life forever.  I love you, Keira.  Don't grow up too fast. 

Shelton Haiti Adventure Coming Soon

An exciting adventure lies before us and we are eager to tell you about it!

 “Spirit, lead me where my trust is without borders…”

 SENSING THE CALL

It is continually our hope and prayer to live our lives with a sense of adventure, consistently loving and engaging the world around us and, most importantly, with our hearts always tuned toward obedience to God. 

 When we watched the promotional video about the short term mission trip that our church, East Side Church of God, is taking to Haiti this summer several weeks ago, we instantly turned to each other and immediately agreed that we should go.  As we have prayed and talked and learned more about the trip, the ministry we will partner with, and the people and country of Haiti, we have continued to receive affirmation that God is nudging us to pursue this opportunity at this time in our lives.

 “Let me walk upon the waters, wherever You would call me…”

 THE MISSION AND MINISTRY

Our trip will take place from June 14-21 and this eight day trip will focus on bringing and sharing hope in a culture that may seem to most Americans as being without hope.  We will be serving just a few miles outside of Port au Prince, the capitol of Haiti. 

 Haiti continues to be stricken by an increasing breakdown of social stability, family life, and government corruption, as well as poverty in villages, crime, domestic violence, and drug addiction.  There is such a need for hope that can only be found in Christ.  Mission of Hope is a Christ-centered organization that we will serve with in Haiti.  (www.mohhaiti.org)  We are excited about working alongside Mission of Hope and the possibility of bringing the incredible news of the love of Jesus to a very needy people.  We will do ministry in a variety of ways including proclaiming the message of life and hope through one-on-one interactions in orphanages and nearby villages, work projects in local villages, and working alongside local churches and pastors.

 Although there will certainly be challenges and circumstances that will break our hearts, the prospect of serving in this capacity holds the potential to change lives for eternity and that is exceptionally invigorating!  Another reason we are excited is that we have never been on a mission trip together.  Although we both were part of trips before we were married, this will be our first trip like this together.  We are eagerly anticipating the ways that God will challenge us and speak to us individually while also expecting beautiful outcomes for our relationship and marriage through this shared experience. 

 “Take me deeper than my feet could wander…”

 A PARTNERSHIP OF SUPPORT

As you can imagine, a trip like this requires significant financial support.  Each member of the team needs to raise $1700 and we have payments due early this spring.  Gifts of any size are greatly appreciated!  If you would like to be part of this mission through your financial support, please mail a check to the church, give by credit card, or give online at www.eschog.org.  

 “… and my faith will be made stronger, in the presence of my Savior.”

 A PARTNERSHIP OF PRAYER

The most crucial thing that you can do as we embark on this journey is to partner with us in prayer.  Please pray that the logistical pieces will come together easily such as passports, immunizations, and schedules.  Pray for the entire team from East Side that we will mutually develop a passion for the people of Haiti and a deep love for one another.  Pray that the team will make an impact as well as be impacted.  As God is faithful in preparing us for the many unique situations and people that we will encounter on our trip, pray that our eyes, ears, and hearts will be attentive and that we will lean on God’s wisdom and guidance. 

 We also ask that you will pray for our children.  It will be extremely difficult to travel so far away from them for an extended amount time.  Pray for our peace in the leaving and that that the time while we are away will be meaningful and memorable for them. It is our hope that through sharing our stories with our children and explaining to them why we are taking this trip to Haiti, seeds will be planted in them that will impact their world view and teach them the joy of faithful obedience to our God, who is so good, and the importance of loving our world without reservation. 

 Thank you so much for partnering with us as we embark on this incredible experience!

Matt and Tamara

“Oceans”

Spirit, lead me where my trust is without borders

Let me walk upon the waters, wherever you would call me

Take me deeper that my feet could ever wander

And my faith will be made stronger

In the presence of my Savior

(Hillsong United- Crocker, Houston, & Lighthelm)