Terica Nicewonger

Christmas...Once upon a time

2009-12-03T11:33:00.000-06:00

My favorite memories of Christmas as a little girl are going to my Grandmother's house. The house was decorated like the most beautiful wonderland a child could imagine. So much love and thoughtfullness went into the placement of every ornament and accent. I can remember baking with Grandma in the kitchen. Sifting flour and stirring ingredients to make the most tasty treats...and oh the sweet aroma that filled the house. I loved to sit in front of the fireplace and feel the warmth of the fire on my back. But nothing filled my heart with warmth like the sound of the records playing in the background. There is just nothing like the sound of a record. The classic Christmas songs layered with the sound of the record turning. The ever so soft crackle of the needle as it gently glides making the most beautiful music...something I will never forget.

A few months ago, I received one of the most precious gifts imaginable. The records I so loved. When my Grandmother surprised me with them I was overcome with emotion. I couldn't believe this memory I so cherished was now tangibly in my hand. I have been anticipating this Christmas...longing to hear the sound of those records. To be taken back in time. When the world was innocent and families were close. When not a care in the world existed. To once again experience Christmas as a child.

As the first notes sounded I was flooded with emotion...tears began to flow. The warmth I so vividly remembered as a child now fill my home. The memories I held so dear are now so alive. My heart is so full.

Brady Turns 5

2009-09-02T22:02:00.000-05:00

We started his b-day celebration with a party

at Chuck E Cheese the night before.

I'm not sure who had more fun...the kids or their parents!

Rise and Shine! We're off to the zoo!

We spent the first part of the day at the Ft. Worth Zoo.

Mimi, Mommy and Braden had a blast checking out all the animals.

Brady's favorite were the lions. You should hear him roar!

After the zoo, we met up with dad...then we were off to see GI Joe.

After the movie, it was off to the Rainforest Cafe for dinner. Yummmmy!

After a long fun filled day, this was Braden's stamp of approval.

Happy Birthday Little Man!

Faith

2009-07-23T10:45:00.000-05:00

I came upon this in my reading this morning and it spoke riches to me. Maybe it will do the same for you...

This is an excerpt from Beth Moore's Believing God:

"...we may as well accept faith challenges as a fact of life and not be shocked or feel picked on when they come. God brings them to build our faith, prove us genuine, and afford Himself endless excuses to reward us. He delights in nothing more than our choice to believe Him over what we see and feel."

So my friends, stand strong in the midst of nay sayers. Dream even bigger for the dream dashers. Pray enlightenment for those who passionately speak against you in ignorance. Believe the unbelievable. Foresee the unseen. And, most importantly, hold on to the promise that when you rise to the challenge, your faith will be unshakable and get ready, get ready, get ready...the reward is on it's way.

So, go ahead. Amuse our God...delight Him today with your faith. I can't help but wonder then...what you will see and feel.

The Death of The King

2009-07-07T09:21:00.000-05:00

As the world tunes in to the funeral of The King of Pop, I can't help but wonder what the world was like when news spread of the death of The King of Kings. Could you hear the groan of mourning across the world that day? Was the absence of His physical presence unbearable? To have walked, talked and felt Him so tangibly and then He is no longer there. Just as family, friends and fans of Micheal express their love and devotion to him still, the world has been impacted by his death. How much more was the world rocked by the death of Jesus Christ? How well have we remembered the death of The King? How well have we expressed our love and devotion to Him still?

Thoughts I'm pondering this morning...

"Soul Mates"

2009-06-19T12:19:00.000-05:00

Call me a romantic if you will, but I believe you can find and fall in love with "The One". That it is possible to experience True Love. I know that there is such a person you can call your "soul mate". You see, I know this because I was able to experience this first hand ten years ago today. I know that in my areas of weakness, his strength carries me through and during his times of weakness, my strengths can do the same. I know that there is no other person in the world that I would rather spend my days with, to experience life with. I have experienced knowing someone so well, you can predict what their next move will be. I know what it is to love someone far beyond words and to have that someone love you right back.

But above all, I know that I am blessed to live this beautiful thing orchestrated by our Father God. I have lost count of how many times I have thanked Him for Brandon over our amazing journey together. The night before we said "I do" it was my prayer that what Brandon and I have be a testament to what God can do. The absolute peace you can have when entering into the most tender of all human relationships is something I long for all. It not only carries you through but fuels your relationship to operate on all cylinders. The life I live with my husband is possible all because of what our loving Father has done for us. So, you see, I live out the possibility of finding your "one" everyday. That is why I am a believer.

To my love:

You are the most amazing man I have ever met. Your integrity, passion and strength I admire. You have taught me so many things; like not take myself so seriously. It's okay to loosen up and have fun. (still working on this one, but hey, I've come along way.) I love your sense of humor. When you say, "Watch this" I may be running the opposite direction but I'm smiling the whole way. I have never felt so cherished, so loved. You know how to make me feel like I am the only girl in the room. I enjoy the journey of NewLife. To see your vision and dreams come to be. Your leadership is a strength I admire. I love that you are a God fearing man. I love to see what God's doing in your life shared with so many. I know that you are a difference maker. I am living proof. You have for sure made a difference in mine. The minute we met, my life would forever never be the same. I am so grateful. I love you!

Father God, Thank you once again for this man I am so privileged to call my husband, my best friend, my partner, my love. Bless him, prosper him and continue to use him to forever alter the lives of those you love.

Love,
Your Adoring Wife

Laughter's The Best Medicine

2009-04-28T14:50:00.000-05:00

We primarily spend our Sunday afternoons and evenings together just hanging out. Sometimes we make an ice cream /limeade run to Braums. Other times we'll stop and grab a snow cone. There are times we do both...it just depends on who wants what. One of our favorite things to do is watch AFV aka America's Funniest Home Videos. Or as Brady very innocently calls it "Home O Videos". (I love it!) Anyway, it never fails, we always laugh at some of the ridiculous stuff people do (you want to ask them "At what point did that seem like a good idea?") But, more often than not, we end up laughing hysterically at each other. This past Sunday, I was busting a gut laughing so hard, then Brandon starts laughing at me or with me and Braden was trying to calm me down. He kept saying, "No mom, stop laughing" all while putting his little hand over my mouth. Then he says, "I don't want to have to watch it again!" When something cracks us up, Brandon will generally rewind it so we can see it again. Which just prolongs the laughter. Evidently, Braden prefers us to laugh and just get on with the show. But one things for sure, we love to laugh with...and even at each other.

My Love

2009-04-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

As you can tell by the subject matter mainly covered in my blog...I value and cherish my family.

And it all began by falling in love with this man. We are closing in on 10 years. I can't believe it! The time has gone by so fast. It seems like it was not that long ago that two very young people stood in front of family and friends declaring their love for one another. One thing is for sure, we were in love. We were young, yes and maybe even a little or a lot nieve as to the challenges of marriage, but I knew I couldn't live without him. Brandon is who I saw my future with... whatever that turned out to be. If we could go back in time, I wouldn't change a thing. Not the good times, not even the bad times. It's because of them we are who we are today. I loved this man with my whole heart on the day we said "I do". Today, I love him with all that I am and tomorrow I will love him even more.

Thank you, Father above, for this man that I am so privileged to call my husband and beloved partner in this life. He is everything I could ever need. You know me oh so well.

My #5

2009-04-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

Here's my number 5. Ever since seeing the Rangers play, he now has to wear his uniform like Kinsler. It's quite the production getting him ready for his games. It takes teamwork! I told Mimi at his game on Monday, "I know I'm his mom but he's just so darn cute!" What can I say, that boy makes my heart leap with joy. Maybe one of these days...he'll grow into his last name.

Let's go fly a kite

2009-04-21T10:05:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, we got together for lunch at my Grandma & Papaw's house. It's been forever since the family had been together. We grilled out, hung out and decided to take advantage of the windy day.

Papaw flew his handmade-made-from-scratch kite. I can remember a day when we made one of those together. Great memories!

Brandon and Braden flying their kite. There was just enough wind. It turned out to be a beautiful day.

Trip to the Ballpark

2009-04-20T10:26:00.000-05:00

We went to the Ranger Game on Friday. The nachos were worth the visit...the Rangers not so much. At one point during the game, when the score was 12-0, Braden looked at us and said, "This game is taking too long." We couldn't have agreed with him more! There were a couple of bonuses, Mimi and Papa were there, Braden is great entertainment and there was a fireworks show after the game. So, all in all, we had a pretty great time despite the outcome of the game.

My Little Man

2009-04-15T14:00:00.000-05:00

My little man!

Ever since Braden was a baby I've called him my little man.

In this picture, he for sure lives up to the nickname.

Oh, how I love this boy!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T21:32:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a Happy Easter! We had an absolutely amazing service at NewLife. Life change never gets old and simply propels you on and you want only to see more of it. I thank God for his move and for allowing us to be a part of it. During the service I had this overwhelming feeling that this was only the beginning. NewLife has been around for 5 years now but we still have only begun to scrape the surface. I have such a spirit of anticipation and expectancy. It's almost overwhelming!

We have started a new tradition. This was the second year for it. With all the preparation that goes into Easter, tensions tend to run a little higher and family time is few and far between. We know to expect this and adjust accordingly...it's written somewhere in the job description of Lead Pastor and family. Minor sacrifice when you see hells population growing less and less with each life changed. So, to make up for the craziness we make a reservation at Texas De Brazil for 3. We go for lunch...Brandon and Braden are in heaven being the carnivores they are. I love seeing them enjoy not only the food but also the time that we have to simply be together. We had an absolutely fabulous time. We look forward to it every year. Braden was quite the little gentleman. I was the luckiest girl in the place to be accompanied by my ever awe inspiring husband (you hit it out the park, Babe) and my tender hearted but definitely all boy son. I love my family and consider myself truly blessed!

The boys and their meat.

This was Brady's expression while savoring each bite.

He kept closing his eyes while sweeping his head from side to side.

Brandon's chest couldn't get much bigger...he swelled up with so much pride!

That's his boy!

Cardinals 2009

2009-04-05T21:32:00.000-05:00

Saturday was opening day for Braden's baseball season. The kids had to be there early for the parade and the throwing of the first pitch. What better way to start the day than with a Krispy Kreme!

I know when we found out we were having a boy this is exactly what Brandon had envisioned. One day he would have the opportunity to coach his own son. Well that day is here and not only does Brady get to have his daddy coach him but also his Papa. Uncle Brent is even on the coaches list. These truly are special times.

Game day highlights: Braden hit the ball down the left field line and played second and third base. His little legs kick it in gear and off he goes. He wanted to be the number 5 and Nicewonger takes up his entire back. He's absolutely adorable out there. He's turning out to be quite the little ball player and with the help of his coaching staff...the odds are definitely in his favor!

Three's Company

2009-03-28T20:07:00.000-05:00

Today was family day! I love days like this...it's just the three of us all day. We do a variety of things on family day but today it was off to the movies. We saw Monsters vs. Aliens in 3D. Great movie! We laughed, we cried...just kidding! No really, there was a lot of laughter and the best part...we were together.

Reflections

2009-03-27T13:47:00.000-05:00

Today is a somber one for me...very reflective. This morning I attended a funeral and was once again reminded how fragile life really is. One minute children have a parent, a mother has a child and people have a friend...the next minute...they don't. Life is not guaranteed. This sometime harsh reality has awoke in me something I think too often and too easily goes dormant...the value of expressing love to your family. Life gets messy and time gets the best of us. It's easy...well easier to let those you are around all the time know that you love them but what about those who aren't? Even then, those you see everyday are easy to take advantage of. Regardless of how close or far away they are, it's easy to let love be assumed...instead of expressed. So, needless to say, I've been making some phone calls and sending some emails.

Let those you love know how valued they are. Next time you kiss your spouse~linger there a little longer. This is the person you knew in your heart of hearts you just couldn't live without. If you have a child and they are begging for your attention~set aside your agenda and engage in their imagination. After all, they are your biggest fan. If you have parents, let them know that you love and appreciate them. Thank them for never giving up hope on the person they knew you would become. Have a dear friend you haven't talked to in a while~ make contact and let them know you're thinking of them.

No one is invincible. We all will one day face letting go of someone we love dearly. Make sure that when that happens, you can say good-bye without any regrets. At the end of the day, when all is said and done, we have our family...however the word family is defined for you.

My Son

2009-02-25T11:09:00.000-06:00

Braden did it again. Something he said is just too cute not to share. Yesterday, he had school and it was his turn to take the class snack. Well, the perk, or at least it's supposed to be perk, is that you get to be the "Caboose" as you travel in your well formed line from class to class, etc. Mimi was having a little difficulty getting little man motivated for school, so she brought up the exciting fact that he was going to get the special privilege of being the Caboose today. His very candid response, "Mimi, there is nothing special about being the last in line." Oh my son, how I love thee!

A Tribute To My Ministry Family

2009-02-24T09:05:00.000-06:00

This past week, I had the privilege of attending a leadership conference, C3, with some really incredible people. For the past three years, we've been fortunate to attend. The first year, Brandon and I went. The next year we were able to take some of our staff and this year, all of the pastoral staff made it. And make it they did. This year was by far the best...and that has everything to do with those who were there. There were times we laughed so hard our stomachs hurt and we couldn't breathe. Yet, there were also times of quiet introspection as we listened to some phenomenal speakers; each taking away personalized nuggets of information but with one common denominator. For two days, I was surrounded by an undeniable sense of family. Contrary to what many may think, we don't get to spend much time together outside of church. We all have lives and families that dictate what free time we may have so what an incredible treat those two days were. We actually realized how dangerous we could be if we were all full time and we greatly look forward to that day.

I couldn't imagine a better group of people to be so intimately connected to in this adventure called ministry. I love them all to the core and appreciate, more than words can say, their dedication to the Father, My family and the cause of NewLife. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. My your family be blessed for generations and generations to come because of the legacies each of you are creating. I am truly blessed and my life forever altered due to the pleasure of knowing each of you. I am forever thankful for the opportunity to be in ministry with such an incredible group of people.

Blast from the Past

2009-01-29T19:50:00.000-06:00

My Mom found some pictures of me when I was a little girl. So, that's what my natural hair color is! Evidently, M & M's have always been my weakness. Regular or peanut...it really makes no difference. But, by the looks of it, I don't think I needed to be eating me some M & M's.

Veggies anyone?

2009-01-28T22:04:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but sometimes getting a four year old to actually eat something that's good for them, well...it can be a challenge. Braden likes to eat a variety of things, but not all of them are all that great for him. So, we've been making some changes as a family on what we eat. Trying to be more conscious, which includes upping our fruits and veggies. Fruits aren't really the issue, it's more the veggies that tend to get the sour looks.

On Sunday, I had the privilege of setting across from Caleb and Braden at lunch. They were engaged in a conversation about food. Each was talking about what they wanted to order and certain foods that they like. Neither one knew I was intently listening. I'm amazed at how and what the minds of little ones process. You just never know what will come out of their mouths next. During their conversation, Braden looks at Caleb and says, "Hey, you know what...I like carrots and broccoli now!" Notice the exclamation mark. Braden said this with such enthusiasm and revelation that I couldn't help but smile. Oh, the joy that boy brings to this momma's heart.

Bradenisims

2008-12-31T11:19:00.000-06:00

Braden has done some really cute things here lately and I wanted to share them with you.

A couple of weeks ago, Brandon couldn't find his wallet. We were trying to leave the house and were frantically searching everywhere. Well, I had just put a load of jeans in the washer. Low and behold if that isn't where we found it. So, a couple of days ago Brandon was looking for his keys. Our wise, I don't forget anything son says, " Did you check the washer?" I had to laugh.

A few nights ago, I was trying to get Braden to take a bath. He was reluctant and I explained to him that he had dirt under his nails and needed to take a bath. He gives in and off to the bath we go. Well, a couple nights later we get home late and I'm trying to get everyone ready for bed. Braden wants to play in the bath and I'm trying to talk him into skipping it because of the time. He whips out his hands and says, "But Mom, I have dirt under my nails." Off to the bath we went.

There is never a dull moment and I love it! Braden makes me laugh...much like his Father.

Hello Thirties!

2008-11-23T22:45:00.000-06:00

Here I am, on the eve of beginning my thirty somethings. Looking back, my twenties were full of some great firsts.

* I married my Prince at 20.

* Bought our first house at 22.

* I became a Senior Pastors wife at 24.

* I had my first child at 25.

As the ink dries on the pages of my twenties, I look on with great anticipation and excitement as my story continues into my thirties. The past ten years have been foundational and I'm anxious to see what's established during the next ten.

Once upon a time...

2008-11-21T10:50:00.000-06:00

With the holiday season fast approaching...I've been reminiscing. Here is a picture of Braden during his first Holiday Season. His very existence is the absolute best gift ever, well second to the existence of his father. After all, the love of my life had a little bit to do with Brady's arrival. (smirk!) The Christmas before he was born, I so longed for a child. We had attended a production at a local church with some friends, and I can remember they brought out some of their children to sing a Christmas Carol. My eyes welled up with tears and I reminded God of my deep desire. Little did I know that my petition had already been granted.

Here we are now four years later. Time has flown by! Braden is the light of my life. My heart swells with a love that can't be described enough. There are not enough words or metaphors to even come close to define the lengths and depths of emotion I feel for him. My life has forever been altered by this little boy who has captured my heart.

This is my favorite time of year and I get to spend it with two of my favorite people, my hubby and my son. I am so richly blessed!

Hubbies & Housework

2008-10-27T16:11:00.000-05:00

I'm sure our household is not the only one where the house is, for the most part, maintained by the wife. We've been married nine years and most of our arguments have been over each other's perception of clean. And of course..they clash.

The other day I was cleaning the house while Brandon was watching football and Braden was playing. I walked through the living room and saw that Brandon had picked up a towel out of the mound of laundry that needed to be folded. I immediately said, "What's wrong?" thinking a drink had spilled and he replies, "Nothing, I'm folding the towels." In that moment, I was overwhelmed with love. He made me feel so special by that simple action. I looked at him and said, "You have never looked so sexy." With something as simple as folding some laundry, my hubby spoke love, consideration and value and he didn't say a word. Brandon may never know how valued I felt at that moment but I will never forget. Those things may not happen often, but when they do, they don't go unnoticed.

Pastor Appreciation

2008-10-22T10:23:00.000-05:00

Pastor Appreciation takes place during the month of October. Here are just a few of the countless qualities I love about My Pastor.

~ I love the sold out dedication that he has to the cause of NewLife.

~ He is an amazing leader that I have learned and continue to learn so much from.

~ He is never satisfied with just okay and strives for nothing short of excellence. Especially for the cause of Christ.

~ His strength to do all that is needed and then plus some is something to be admired.

~ I love his sensitivity.

~ I love it when his passion is diplayed by emotion. He's not afraid of tears.

~ I love that he is obedient to the call that has been placed on his life.

~ Only he knows the true depth to the sacrifices he has made as a Pastor and yet he is faithfull and continues to do so.

My Pastor is truly a man to be honored, respected and admired. I'm incredibly lucky because I have the privilege of callling this man my husband.

Pumpkin Carvin

2008-10-14T20:40:00.000-05:00

Last night, my boys carved their annual pumpkin. When Brandon asked Braden how he wanted to do it, meaning what kind of face do you want to carve on it, Braden replies "With a knife, dad." Like, duh! Cracked me up! Here are some pictures...

Dad hard at work while Brady hams it up.

The proud pair. Check out the grins!

We look forward to carving our pumpkin every year. It's just one of the many traditions we have as a family. We love spending that time together and the memories that are made.

Interior Design by a 4 year old

2008-10-10T13:17:00.000-05:00

So, we are in the process of redecorating Braden's bathroom. We're going with a surfer/beach theme and I wanted to involve little man so I was talking to him about picking out a paint color.

This is our conversation:

Mom: Hey Brady, we need to look at your shower curtain and pick out a paint color for your bathroom.

Brady: How about we do Cowboys blue or TCU purple?

Mom: Oh, (a little surprised) you want Cowboys blue or TCU purple...don't you want to look at some other colors? (a little desperation in my voice)

Brady: Those are your two choices mom. So, go ahead and pick one.

Mom: Well, I guess we'll have to go with the Cowboys blue.

Brady: I want the the TCU purple but next time you can do Cowboys blue.

Needless to say, this is not quite the direction I had planned.

Busy?!?!?

2008-10-09T10:59:00.000-05:00

I promise I do plan on blogging. But here is a glimpse into why I haven't, yet.

Let's see...this is what my schedule is like not to mention Brandon's:

Monday ~ Leave the house and head to work. After work, go to the church for staff. After staff, worship practice. See my house again around 8:00 or so, eat, get a few things around for the next day, crash.

Tuesday ~ Take Brady to Pre-school. Go to work. Leave straight from work to make the T-Ball game. Grab some dinner. Get home around 9:30 or so. Get ready for bed, crash.

Wednesday ~ Leave the house when it's dark and go to work. Straight to church. Get home when it's dark and you guessed it, crash.

Thursday ~ Pre-School. Work. Leave work to get Brady to T-Ball practice. Get some grub. Get home late, wait around to get a glimpse of my husband and crash.

Friday ~ Say bye to Brandon for the day. (I won't see him again until about 2 am or so) Go to work. This week, I'll head straight to church for B'LoveD. Get some dinner with Brady. Go home and spend time with my little man. Pass out while waiting for Brandon.

Saturday ~ T-ball game in the morning. TCU game to go to or watch on TV. Eating happens somewhere in there. Make sure things are ready for Sunday. Crash.

Sunday ~ Get to church early. Have a fantastic time. Almost always the last ones to leave. Grab some lunch. Discuss the service and the events that took place. Maybe get a nap in, watch some football and then off to LifeTeams.

This time of year for us is crazy!! Brandon working his day job while putting in countless hours at the church. Officiating Football, managing a family, T-ball coach and the list just goes on. We are hardly ever home, down time doesn't exist yet we survive. It's amazing how God gives you the Grace needed to do all that's needed. Priorities become real clear. The house may be neglected for a time in order to spend a few extra moments with my son. Phone calls throughout the day are vital for Brandon and I to stay connected. Are things perfect, No Way! Do we get frustrated, stressed, snip at each other a little bit more? Of course, but at the end of the day, we have each other. We appreciate and protect the time that we do have and we know that this time of year only lasts for a season. Believe me, we remind each other of that quite often.

Entering the Blogosphere

2008-09-22T20:35:00.000-05:00

So, this is what it's like on the other side...

My hopes for this site are to share with the world (or simply those who want to know) what's it like to be the wife of a pastor/sports lover/comedian/polar opposite of myself, the mom of the most adorable four year old who absolutley cracks me up with the creative things he says and the challenges that sometimes come with that and simply me.

Who knows, maybe there will be some life atlering, profound wisdom moments...but if not... it should be entertaining!

Stay tuned for more details and a closer look into the circus life we live.